Original subtitles

She did come here.

Where did you get that sweater?

My mom made it.

It was a present.

Next time she decides to make you a sweater, tell her you're violently

to it.

Homemade sweaters are like elephants.

It's okay to look at them, but you never want to own one.

You're new.

Hannah's just trying to help.

You can thank me later.

What was that girl's name?

Who cares?

Did you see her hair?

That wasn't a haircut. It was a cry for help.

Have you seen him?

Uh, yes.

Invite him. I want this to be our best Christmas party ever.

It will be.

Hey, princess.

New ride?

I am not a princess.

You didn't used to hate being called a princess.

I'm a little old for it, don't you think?

Dads always think their daughters are princesses.

They also think they're marrying Prince Charming.

That'd be really expensive.

Princess.

You need to be back from Hannah's by eight.

Why so early?

We have to plan our annual Christmas soiree.

Mom's way behind at putting up the decorations. It's next week.

Your mother has had other things to do.

She knows how important this is.

Eight o 'clock.

What's wrong?

We're not changing the phone plan again, are we?

Where was that girl from again?

I don't know. She just moved here.

Speaking of new people, his name is Mike.

something, so I invited him. Good.

Madison Wilson?

No, that girl's so fake Barbie's jealous.

And sweater girl is off.

I just want this to be our best Christmas party ever, and I'm working on

us some killer sparkle ankle boots.

Girl, we are taking Paris by storm.

Check this out.

Your ticket to Paris.

My dad's giving it to me for Christmas, he promised, but I just want it now.

Well, what if something happens and he doesn't?

Then I'll just divorce him. You can't divorce your own father. Then I'll sue

him. He's a lawyer.

Whatever. I just don't want to wait.

Well, I'm still trying to talk my mom into coming with us.

I wish we could just go alone.

My mom is the last person on earth I'd want to come with us. She's so boring

she won't even want to go to any of the shows.

I just need mine for her American Express.

Did you see his eyes?

All I see is biceps.

That's one fine specimen.

Oh, what about Heather Simpson?

Do you still hate her?

Um, no, but I don't like being around her.

Me too.

If I needed to charge my phone.

I didn't plug her life support.

Remind me not to make you mad.

Don't worry.

I can always count on you.

Friends forever.

Oh, jeez, I'm late.

You just got here.

Oh, my dad is having this, like, lame family meeting.

About what?

Who knows? I just hope he's not changing our cell phone plan again.

Well, call me if you can.

Okay.

How long is this gonna take?

I failed to send out party invitations.

We need to talk.

Come on.

Come on. Sit down.

There's something we need to tell you.

You're... Your dad's having a hard time with this.

I don't know if you've noticed, but he's been home a lot.

I thought he was, you know, just left in work.

No, honey, he's been helping me.

Helping with what?

Your mother has been undergoing chemotherapy.

Why didn't you tell us?

I thought you'd notice that my hair was spinning in the back.

It has.

You never notice anything.

Yeah, they do. What do you know?

Guys, we're telling you now.

But it doesn't matter because your mother is done with the chemo.

For now.

For forever, hopefully.

I have to go to the hospital tomorrow for surgery.

Are you going to die?

We're all going to die, sweetheart. But I'm trying to avoid that right now.

That's why your mother's been so weak.

What about the Christmas party?

We always do it here. You do the best decorations.

You're worried about Christmas party decorations?

No.

I just... We've already invited everybody.

I thought you still had to send out the invitations.

I know the party's important to you.

It's not that important.

It's all right, Vince.

You probably don't want people around anyway.

Hannah's mother and I discussed having the party at their place.

Yeah, that'll work.

I know this doesn't fit your plans.

But it doesn't really fit ours either.

I'll bring you over tomorrow after lunch.

The doctor thinks she'll be able to have visitors by then.

Dr. Forrest, dial 118, please. Dr.

Forrest, please dial 118.

It was a very complex procedure.

She's still in recovery.

She's going to need some rest for the next couple of hours.

Spencer?

It's okay.

I'll be there. Thanks.

They need me at the courthouse.

I'll be back as soon as I can.

You heard the doctor.

She needs a rest.

Mom, how are you feeling?

I just woke up.

First in the room.

How do you feel?

Like I could sleep for ten days.

Sounds about right.

We do have one more procedure.

Are you up for it?

This one won't be as bad.

I promise.

Thank you.

So, there's more.

I guess so. It's not over. We've been here all day. Do these people know what

they're doing?

Sarah, what's going on?

I just don't want Mom to have to go through more... whatever stuff.

Keep your voice down.

She has cancer.

Would you think she'd be cured in one day? How am I supposed to know how this

works? You know what?

You can go to the waiting room. Yeah, okay.

It's okay, Spence.

No, it's not.

Got anything to munch on?

No. I don't.

Well,

somebody dropped you off.

What is it?

It's not a what.

It's a who.

Oh.

Are you lost?

No, I'm not lost. What is this place?

A family shelter.

I was at the hospital.

Are you hurt?

No. My mom was there, and I couldn't stay because... Too much pain.

I'm Ruthie Grant.

Jennifer Miller.

What's the number?

Oh, what number?

Oh, you don't have to call anybody.

Well, how is she going to get home?

Fly? I'll walk.

I'm not letting anyone your age walk out of here alone this time of night.

Daddy, I... Who is this?

Mr. Miller, this is Ruthie Grant at the Safe Haven Family Shelter.

Yes.

Uh -huh.

Yeah, she's here.

Of course.

Okay.

I'll take you home in about an hour. An hour?

Is that a problem?

Um, no.

Good.

We could use your help. We're actually shorthanded tonight.

Help with what?

With the guests. That's what we do here.

Come on in.

But you have my phone.

Hey, thank you, Dad.

Did your old man throw you out?

What? No.

You got no place to live?

I have a place to live. I'm just, like, helping here.

Really?

Is that what you call this?

Helping out?

You've washed a lot of dishes, have you?

That's because I have a dishwasher.

Yeah, so do we now.

It's you.

Oh, lighten up, love.

There's worse things than washing dishes.

What are you in for?

In for?

I'm not in for nothing.

I help out here.

But you're not a lot of help at home, are you?

I help.

Yeah. You help yourself.

What's your name?

Jennifer.

What's yours?

Vinegar Ben Comstock.

What kind of name is that? Vinegar?

Family name.

I come from a long line of fine juices and sauces.

More like he's as sour as apple cider vinegar.

How's it coming in here?

She's not a fast learner, if you know what I'm saying.

It's not exactly something I want to learn, so... We noticed that right off.

But neither were you, Ben, when you first came here. Yeah, but I was better

this. Oh, yeah, let's make sure no one sees this picture.

I gotta go before something happens. My meals were not cut out for this.

I'm a few minutes out.

Wait for me.

Wait.

Hey, you can't just walk out.

Look at this. It's a parade edition.

You're going to leave me. I don't like you. I don't like you at all.

I'm Jennifer.

How old are you?

Well, it was nice talking to you and the wall.

Well?

Who's that?

Her name's Chloe.

She doesn't say much.

Doesn't say anything.

Hasn't since she got here.

Where's her family?

Just her and her mother.

Come on.

Well, much obliged for your help.

No, it wasn't much.

You can say that again.

But you can't. So just try to be normal and say thank you.

You know, it's odd. Every time you open your mouth, Ruthie, some idiot starts

talking. And you're stupider than a box of hammers.

We do love each other around here.

I can see that.

Come on.

Night, Ruthie.

Night.

Girl, whatever your name was.

Morning,

beautiful. What time is it?

Six.

In the morning?

I wanted to talk to you before I pick up your mom.

The procedures are complete.

Now we wait to see if they work.

It's going to take a lot more time, isn't it?

You should have realized that before you had a meltdown.

I didn't mean to say all those things. I was just... Blindsided.

Yeah.

We all are.

But this is going to be hardest on your mother.

I know.

But my main concern is you.

Me?

I'm not sick.

No.

But you're immature for a 17 -year -old.

And you don't take responsibility.

I take responsibility.

For one thing, I stay on top of cold weather layering trend to make sure I

catch a cold.

What?

Nothing.

Your mother is sick.

Do you get that?

Yeah.

When you were younger, you two were so close.

And now you're so wrapped up in yourself, you don't even notice what's

in your own home.

Yesterday, you got angry. You ran out. You didn't tell a soul where you were

going.

Ended up at a homeless shelter in the middle of the night.

You call that responsible?

Not really.

Not at all.

There are going to be some changes.

What changes?

You're going to start helping around here.

What do you mean? I do stuff.

You do things for yourself.

You don't do anything for anybody else.

You never have.

I'm talking about being adult responsible.

I can do that. I know.

When you set your mind to something, you can do whatever you want.

So, I'm going to let you prove it.

How? The trip to Europe.

No, you promised.

If... You go.

You're going to earn it.

You're going to start spending your afternoons helping your mother while she

recovers.

You're going to help out at the shelter, too.

And you're going to be nice to your little brother.

I'm nice to the little twerp.

Nicer than he deserves.

What about Paris?

We go in January. You know that's when all the big fashion shows are.

That trip all depends on how responsible you are before January.

I'll meet with Ruthie, and we'll see how you've done.

You promised I could go.

And you still can, if your mother gets better.

And you do everything I just said.

That all just comes down to one thing.

What? You.

You start now.

Do the laundry before you go to the shelter this afternoon.

The shelter? I can't. The Christmas party's tonight. I don't know what I'm

wearing. I need time to figure that out.

I don't think anybody at the shelter is going to care what you wear.

But I've been planning this party for weeks. It's only to put up the

decorations. You haven't planned anything.

Your mother has.

The shelter closes at 8.

Maybe you can still get to the party before everyone leaves.

I'm not helpless. I know, I just... You just think that I am.

I'm worried about you.

You always do.

But if I don't do some things on my own, I won't be any help around here.

You can't do everything.

That's why I want Jennifer to help you.

She helps.

Sometimes. My point.

Exactly.

You've done everything for all of us all of the time.

That's what moms do.

I know.

But the situation has changed.

Let us take care of you for a little while.

I love you.

I love you, too.

You're already home?

Of course.

Are you... I'm fine.

You excited about the party?

Yeah, if I get to go.

I have to work at the shelter today.

You volunteered at the shelter?

Oh, honey, I'm so proud of you.

You know, I'm just... Helping with the kids and stuff.

That's wonderful.

You have no idea how many times I have prayed that you would learn the joy of

serving.

And you did the laundry.

But didn't Dad tell you? What's come over you?

A whole lot of orders.

I helped her. Really?

Yeah. Supermodel here doesn't know the difference between wash and spin cycle.

I knew how to do it. It's just been a while, okay? You've never done it.

Bogart knows more about it than you do.

Well, he's in the laundry room more than I am. His feeding dish is in there.

Besides, it's not a big deal.

Well, it is to me.

Did you know that your daughter volunteered at the shelter?

So -so.

Can I get a ride downtown after school?

No. I have a deposition this afternoon.

Take the bus.

The bus? What bus?

At the bus stop.

That's why they call them that.

By the blue sign.

What blue signs?

The ones with little pictures of buses on them. Oh, right.

I heard that the new boy in school is going to be at the party.

Mike, is it?

How did you know about Mike?

Anna's mom mentioned it on the phone.

My dad has me working this stupid job after school.

You can't. We have to decorate.

Do the best you can. I'm sorry. I gotta go.

What is so important?

Everyone's been tweeting about this party.

Tell them I got a job, kind of. What job? Where?

Just make sure everyone knows that it's at your place. I gotta go. I'm gonna

miss the bus.

The school buses aren't running anymore.

Not that kind of bus!

What other kinds are there?

Oh, good. You made it.

Barely. Kitchen?

Here's an apron. I don't want you to ruin your school clothes.

Wash or dry?

Neither. You're going to be serving supper to our guests tonight.

Guests?

The shelter isn't permanent.

When they can do better, they move on.

At least that's the hope.

But until that happens, the women and children here are our guests.

Today we're having soup.

One ladle per customer.

Children get half.

If they eat it all, they can come back for a second.

Good afternoon, Ruthie, love.

Oh, no.

Not you again.

How come you're back?

Ruthie slipped a coin.

I lost.

We all lost. You want to get a selfie with your ladle? Wouldn't that be nice

all your friends?

There you are.

That's nice.

Who's next?

That's delicious.

Yeah.

Oh, Chloe, you're back.

You want some soup? It's really good.

She doesn't talk.

I know.

I hope that doesn't upset you.

Oh, no. I'm sure my dad... Wishes I didn't talk.

How old's Chloe?

Eight next February.

She's small for her age.

Probably because all the time they spent on the street.

Hasn't uttered a single syllable since she got here.

But they're better now?

Well, they're off the street.

Mom's in rehab, part of our intervention program.

You know, I am surprised you came back.

Me too.

I was wondering

if you were going to show up.

It looks great.

Good turnout?

Pretty good.

Why are you still wearing your school clothes?

I did not have time to change.

Doesn't matter. Hey, Matt, can you take this for me? Thanks. It doesn't matter?

Who are you and what have you done with the Jennifer that I know?

I just didn't have time to change and I'm tired from... Yeah.

I think you look fine.

I was afraid you weren't coming to your own Christmas party.

You were?

Well, I wanted to thank you for inviting me.

You want to dance?

Me?

Yeah.

Wearing this.

Yeah, you look great.

Also, I gotta leave here pretty soon.

Oh, it's Mike Breckenridge, by the way.

Oh, right.

Jennifer Miller.

Nice to meet you, Jennifer.

Mike, where did you put my purse?

Um, it's in the truck behind the seat.

I brought my little fitzer along, too. I hope that's okay.

Yeah, sure. It's fine.

Hey.

You two know each other?

Sort of.

Uh, yeah.

Hi.

Come on.

Charlie is your sister.

Yeah, yeah.

It's been hard for her, starting at a new school.

I guess some of the girls can be pretty mean.

Hannah said you two are going to Europe?

Paris. At least I hope so.

Wow, that sounds pretty amazing.

Yeah, I've wanted to go there since I was a kid. Go see all the famous fashion

designers unveil their new lines.

Is that what you want to be, as a fashion designer?

Yeah, it's my dream.

Well, it's good to have a dream.

Oh, wow, I gotta go. I have work tomorrow.

Oh, you have a job?

Yeah, I mean, some of us gotta work.

Oh, wow, I'm so sorry. I did not mean it like the way it... No, it's fine.

I have a job.

Oh, well, I bet it's way cooler than mine.

I doubt it.

What do you do?

Well, my family owns a construction company, so, you know, we do all kinds

jobs. But right now we're getting ready to decorate the parks for Christmas.

That's nice.

Thanks for the dance.

Yeah. Hey, tell Carly I said thanks.

For what?

For being nice to me.

She's always nice.

Besides, from what I hear, sounds like everybody wants to be your friend.

See ya.

Did the best I could with the decorations.

You did the decorations?

Your mother's waiting to hear all the details.

Did you have a good time?

Yeah, I had a good time.

Really good.

So Mike did make it.

Geez, did Mom tell everybody?

I don't think the mailman knows you.

There was a little old farmer and a little old woman in his life.

She was happily together with the little girl and the black cat.

Ooh, nice.

And you?

Amazing. And you?

Perfect.

What? You think you're something special now, right? Oh, come on.

Give him a chance.

He's proud of you. He's neater than you.

Slow down a bit. Look at you.

Hurley.

I just wanted to talk.

Thank you.

Oh, look how little you were.

It goes by so fast.

The world can be a beautiful place.

You just have to slow down and enjoy it.

And each other.

That's what's important.

Family.

Are you going to be okay?

I hope so.

Yeah, I'll be back to my old self by the end of the year.

Which reminds me, if you'd like, you can invite a friend over for dinner this

Sunday. Oh, I was just telling Jennifer that she could invite someone for

Sunday.

You sure?

Why not?

We have to eat that turkey I bought for the Thanksgiving dinner we never had.

I have an appointment with Ruthie this week.

What's she going to tell me?

Whatever you ask her.

You going over today?

Yeah, I have two tests and a paper due tomorrow.

I don't know if I'll have the time.

Aw, two tests and a paper.

It's up to you.

I'll be there.

Hello? What are you doing?

Just getting ready to go to work.

That's all you do. I hope you're working on something amazing for Paris.

Yeah, I am, sort of.

Have you seen Chrissy's pants yet? She looked like she had one of those

inflatable kid slides in her back pocket.

Look out!

Man overboard!

I gotta go.

Call me this weekend, please.

Okay, I'll try.

They sure love when you read to them.

Okay. Only one story today. I have schoolwork to do.

So, which story?

No.

How about a new story?

Called The Princess Who Never Talked.

Never heard of that one.

Did somebody cut out her tongue?

No, no one cut out her tongue.

Cut off her head with a lightsaber? No lightsaber.

Cut off her... No one cut... Cut anything off.

She just didn't talk.

Probably swallowed her tongue.

But once, a very long time ago, there was a little

princess.

She had everything a princess could want.

A pony, all the good things to eat, beautiful clothes.

And... A mother and a father who loved her very much.

One day, the little princess went to her window and she saw a beautiful

rainbow.

It was so beautiful that she couldn't stop staring at it.

When her mother, the queen, came in, she asked what she was looking at, but...

The little girl was so entranced, she didn't say a word.

When her father, the king, came in and he asked for a hug, she

still didn't say anything.

So why?

Why do you think Princess never talked?

Because somebody did cut out her tongue.

No.

Because she didn't need to.

Because sometimes the world is so beautiful that it doesn't need

us to tell each other that it is.

It just is.

The end.

Wow, was that story in the book?

No, I just thought it might make someone feel like, you know, part of the group.

I believe you're right.

Do you have any chocolate?

Girl, you can ask me for anything but my chocolate.

Besides, I don't have enough for everybody.

I don't need much, just a little bit.

Just a little bit.

Thank you.

Perfect.

You look very nice today.

Almost like a princess.

Did you like my story?

Well, I brought us some chocolate. Do you want to share?

Oh, hey.

Yeah.

So, um... Are you excited for Christmas?

What do you want?

Okay, well, I, um, I gotta go do some schoolwork, but I'll be back tomorrow.

Don't feel bad.

No, it's not bad. I just...

I'm so lonely.

She's warmed up to you more than anyone.

I just wish I could help somehow.

You have.

Honey, you have.

Ooh, this one's going in my office.

Oh,

Hannah's mom called.

She's changed her schedule so that she can go with you to Paris.

That'll make Dad happy anyway.

Jennifer's made quite an impression at the shelter.

That's wonderful.

Did Ruthie say that I was responsible?

Better. She said that you're involved.

She did.

Involved. Sounds like a burglary charge.

It's a little more positive than that.

Oh, Spence, did you bring up the decorations?

On my way.

Come on.

Whoa. Mom's shirt doesn't have a lot of these. I didn't realize how much work it

was to decorate.

Well, you know how much she loves Christmas.

Yeah.

Do you remember when Mom and I used to do these?

Sure.

Well, wait, can I take some of them?

What are you going to do with them?

I have an idea for someone else.

I have a lot of homework to do.

What about the rest of the decorations?

I'm busy, Nate. Get lost.

Have time for a visitor?

Sorry, I have a lot of homework.

Okay.

I'll tell him.

Him?

Yeah, Jennifer helped decorate.

Oh, Mike was just telling you about the Christmas party. He really enjoyed

himself.

I'm glad.

We're decorating a park that's pretty close to you, actually, and I thought

that... Maybe you would like to join me. Really?

Sure.

Oh, wait.

Hang on a second.

So how are you adapting to school?

It's going great.

Yeah, I finally have a couple friends.

I'm ready for Christmas break, that's for sure.

Ready.

Well, it was a pleasure to meet you. You too.

Have fun.

I like your truck, by the way.

It's got personality.

Thanks.

I like that your family decorates hearts for Christmas.

Yeah.

Yeah, we try to do it wherever we're living.

Well, what made you choose this one?

I don't know.

Just thought it was nice.

It was a good choice.

What's wrong?

Well, there's something that I wanted to ask you.

What?

You remember how I told you that my sister's been made fun of since we moved

here?

And how hard it's been for her?

Yeah.

At first, she didn't know anybody's name, but now she does.

And I told her she must be wrong.

She wasn't.

It was you?

I was one of the group.

Why would you do that?

It's kind of hard to explain.

The stupidity would fit, but it's more than that. Look, I've spent so

much time thinking about myself, what would make me look good and who the

popular kids were, so I could hang out with them.

So now that I've spent time helping people, helping people who really need

it's changed my thinking.

Really?

Yeah, I've...

I've tried to apologize to Carly more than once, but every time I get close,

just takes off in another direction.

Maybe you could talk to her for me?

Yeah, I can.

Wouldn't it be better coming from you?

She'd stay long enough to listen.

Look, this is up.

Really bad timing.

But my mom said that I could have guests at Sunday dinner, and I... I

wanted to invite you.

But after what I just told you, I... I don't think you want to see me again.

I don't know what to think.

But I can't this Sunday. I'm spending the day at my grandma's.

Sure.

Um, I gotta get going.

I'll leave the box with you.

Hey, wait!

You need a ride.

I'll take you back.

Is this all there is, or is there somewhere else you store the food?

Just here.

Can't you go to the store?

Everything we get is donated.

Everything? Mm -hmm.

It'd be nice to get what we need at the supermarket, but we only get what people

give us out of the kindness of their hearts.

Maybe something will show up soon.

I hope you're right.

Maybe I can help.

Thanks, guys. Really appreciate it.

It's a miracle.

Just Facebook and Instagram.

I know a lot of kids.

I can see that.

How long have you been there?

I brought something I think you might like.

I used to love playing with these when I was a kid.

I know.

Just like on the wall, huh?

Well, you want to make them?

Well, not the ones on the wall.

Some of your own.

Don't miss your bus.

Oh, right.

We'll do more, just not now.

Well, you want me to read you a story when I come back?

All right, which story?

The princess who never talks.

Okay, well, maybe you and I can make dresses for the princess to go with the

story.

Bye.

She doesn't talk, huh?

No, but she communicates just fine.

Isn't that the truth?

You know, I think she will eventually talk.

Oh, by the way, the Stevens family found a place where they're going to be

moving. I didn't know that.

Yeah. Just as you get to know the kid, they're gone.

Eventually they all move on.

So you got to make sure that the time you have with them counts.

Anyway, thank you so much for getting those donations.

Helped a lot.

And you're really good at it.

Thanks. Thank you. Have a good one.

I don't know.

It'll come.

Hannah's mom called.

Hannah's already buying clothes for Paris. What about you?

Not yet.

Would you want to go with me?

I'd love that.

Just give me a few days to catch my breath.

Who's that?

Vinegar Ben.

Vinegar who?

Vinegar Ben Comstock.

He helps at the shelter.

We met my first night.

He looks kind of different.

Yeah.

There's a lot of different things about him, but... He's nice.

Once you get to know him.

Like you.

You're changing.

I like it.

Go ahead to the shelter, okay?

I'll finish up here.

What are you doing?

On my way to work. I never see you.

Mike's been asking about you.

What'd he say?

I don't know. Something about your work.

Why would he care?

That's just what I said.

But he's so hot, it didn't matter.

Okay, I gotta go.

Call me this weekend.

Please.

Okay.

Oh, it's easy. Just draw a Christmas tree.

Yeah, that's great.

It almost looks like there could be a turkey hiding behind it.

Do you like turkey?

Yeah.

Well, my mom makes the best turkey in the world.

Keep drawing. I'll be right back.

Ruthie. My mom said I could invite someone for Sunday dinner, and I wanted

invite Chloe.

Oh, uh, Charlotte's who you need to ask.

Okay.

You play so well.

Fifteen years.

Every day, four hours.

I was going to be a concert pianist.

Sounds like you already are.

Far from it.

I let my addiction get in the way of my training.

Chloe hasn't done anything like this in a very long time.

The past two years, I hardly even knew she was around most of the time.

What about Chloe's dad? Can he help?

No, he left before she was born.

My mom said that I could invite some friends to Sunday dinner, and

I'd like to invite you and Chloe.

Oh.

Well, I don't know your family.

I know it's really sudden, but would you at least consider it?

It's very kind.

Would you excuse me a moment?

Hi. We appreciate your donation.

I heard you needed some food.

You know those two?

I know the taller ones.

So then you know how caring she is.

I'm starting to.

Thank you. Merry Christmas.

Merry Christmas.

Chloe can go if you want.

I can't, but I very much appreciate the invitation.

Of course.

I'd like to meet your father.

Sure. And Jennifer, thank you.

It's been a very long time since anyone's cared about us, let alone

anywhere.

So, Chloe, do you want to come to my house

on Sunday for dinner?

It'll be really good.

And if you don't like it, I'll take you right back.

Promise. I think you'd like it, sweetheart.

All right.

It's a date.

Going to the shelter?

Mm -hmm. I'm glad to have you home.

I love seeing you more.

Will you help me set the table?

Yeah.

You know,

You said that I could invite someone for dinner.

Yes.

I invited somebody.

Mike! No, that didn't really work out. This is a different friend.

Who?

Her name's Chloe.

From school?

From the shelter.

She volunteers with you?

No, she's a guest there.

Like Vinegar Bill?

Vinegar Ben, and no, he works there.

Chloe's almost eight.

Oh, I see.

And she doesn't talk.

Why? I don't know.

But she hasn't for a long time.

That's so sad.

What about her mom?

I invited her too, but I feel like she thought that she was imposing.

She does want to meet Dad, though.

You and Dad can pick her up. I will need help setting up that morning, though.

Okay.

Thank you.

Thank you.

I can't believe December is halfway over.

We haven't even put up the tree yet.

Do you realize Christmas is the only time of year you get to sit in front of

dead tree and eat candy out of your socks?

No, I did not, but thank you for sharing.

Hey, come here.

Look. You're the super wiz in the family.

So you've noticed.

I really want to make this Christmas perfect.

Okay? Especially for Mom.

What'd she need?

Help with the decorations.

Already on it.

Wow. Impressive.

See what you learn when you don't spend all your time looking in the mirror?

I'm gonna pretend you didn't say that.

So, we are putting up the tree. Yeah. Want to help?

What do you think?

The tree.

It's beautiful.

Thank you, guys.

Look at you.

I could finally wear my headscarf a little differently.

Turkey smells good.

Double gobble.

You do know we're only having one little girl over for dinner, right?

Give it on sale.

Besides, you love turkey leftovers. Yeah, I'll be eating them till

Day.

It's time, Daddy.

Hi.

Spencer Miller.

How do you do?

Jennifer is very excited to have Chloe join us.

Thank you so much for inviting her.

You sure you don't want to come?

My wife is cooking a turkey the size of West Virginia.

No, thank you.

I'm going to stay and help Ruthie today.

Sort of a new tradition for me.

Chloe, wait till you see what we have at our house.

My mom's been cooking all day.

Hi.

All right, well, we'll have her back by nine.

Oh, sounds good. Have a wonderful time.

Come on. I can't wait to show you the tree and all of our decorations.

This dog is so cute.

It must be Chloe.

Chloe, this is my mom.

Very nice to meet you.

Let's eat.

Down, boy.

See what we're having?

Isn't the turkey nude?

Everybody ready?

Sven?

Dear Lord, we're grateful for this Christmas season and for friends like

Who have come to share this meal with us.

And prayers for good health.

Amen.

Amen.

Who's ready for potatoes?

Who's ready?

So, Chloe.

What do you want for Christmas, sweetheart?

Shoe laces?

Who said she didn't talk? Quiet.

Chloe, what do you want, honey?

Just shoe laces.

What about a new pair of shoes to go with them?

A new doll?

You only want shoe laces.

Be back before dark. No, we will.

I just want to shower or something.

I'm getting cold.

Come on, let's go.

This is a secret place.

Secret?

It's where I come to be alone, figure things out.

Do you have a special place?

No.

Well, from now on, this can be yours, too.

If you want it to be.

Thanks.

Oh, that's the first thing a boy ever gave me.

He moved away and it didn't feel right to keep wearing it, so I brought it

Kind of like a secret treasure.

Understand?

I think so.

You know,

it just doesn't feel right having shoelaces when my new best friend

Have a nice Sunday dinner.

You could say we had a memorable one. Well, I wouldn't say that. Yeah, because

you weren't there.

They meant they liked it, you old duffel head.

And how about the little one? Did she have a good time?

Yeah. Right, Chloe?

Uh -huh.

Did she just... Chloe.

Your mom will be so happy.

Charlotte, they're back.

How did you get her? I didn't. It was my mom. She just asked her what she wanted

for Christmas.

Hey.

Did you have fun, baby?

Yeah. And now we have a special thing.

Don't be.

Chloe.

How did this happen?

My mom just asked her what she wanted for Christmas.

Thank you. Thank you, Jennifer. Thank you, thank you, thank you.

You're welcome, but it was my mom.

Thank your mother for me.

I will.

What did you think she wanted?

She just said, too late.

We were on the street for so long, and I should have that beautiful backpack

to carry what little there was.

I used her shoelaces to hold it together. I didn't get more because I

didn't think about it.

She didn't say a word.

Okay.

Oh, my God. Mother doesn't give their child shoelaces.

You're giving her so much more than shoelaces.

You're giving her a new start.

A new you.

I'm trying.

That's more than I ever did before I met you and Chloe.

Thoughtful of you to take her to help make Christmas cookies.

She can't wait. It's all she talked about.

Yeah, she's been talking a lot more, huh?

I'll say.

And she's playing with the other kid.

Another first.

She's going to need a coat. It's as cold as the North Pole out there.

Oh, I'll take care of that.

All right, let's go. We have a lot of Christmas cookies to make.

Bye, lady.

My mom is so excited to see you.

We need to test them.

No, you need to froth them.

But, Mom, we don't have this many neighbors.

Well, I want to send some back with Chloe for the kids at the shelter.

There's enough here for every kid in town.

Here, try these, Chloe.

Who's that?

Someone I need to talk to.

Coming over tonight.

Mike?

Not exactly.

Thank you for coming.

I can't stay long.

I know.

Come sit for a minute, okay?

Look, what I did was wrong.

I'm sorry for the way I treated you.

Mike told me.

Well, then why wouldn't you talk to me? I didn't believe him.

Besides, every time I run into Hannah... Yeah, I get it.

Mother reminded me we gotta get on the stick or all of the rooms will be gone

Paris.

What is the loser doing here?

Hannah! No, I found out that you ditched me for a bunch of homeless geezers, and

now her?

Hannah, why don't you try to look around and see past your ego for once?

Carly's my friend, or at least I want her to be.

Why?

Her brother thinks he's too good for us. And all this time, I thought you were

doing something actually meaningful for our trip. Hannah, we've been friends for

a long time.

But you just don't get it.

There are people and things that are more important than you.

Call me when you figure that out.

Why is she like that?

Same reason I was.

She just doesn't understand.

I don't know why I ever wanted to be friends with her.

I wondered that too.

So, do you forgive me?

After what just happened, I'd feel guilty if I didn't.

I better go.

Well, thanks for coming over.

I can do that, sweetie.

I heard about what happened.

Yeah. Well, Hannah and I have been drifting apart. It just took me a while

realize it.

Well, there's someone here to feed you.

Carly came back?

No.

Same family, though.

Mike.

I didn't know you were coming.

I should have called first, but I didn't because I wasn't sure if you really

wanted to see me again.

Then Carly told me what happened.

I'm glad she did.

Well, I wanted to thank you.

You know, for what you did.

Ever since we moved here, I just wanted her to fit in and be happy.

And thanks to you, I think she will now.

There's no need to thank me.

I think there is.

Dad says it's getting late. Dad says it's getting late.

Okay.

Sorry about that.

I better go.

Okay. I'll let you out.

Thank you.

If not, we can get him to be your father.

Well, it's official.

The state has confirmed that you and Chloe will be relocating to an approved

location.

This soon?

Well, you've been here three months.

That's as long as anyone usually stays.

Oh.

I have a confession.

I may have gotten a little too involved in your case.

Your sister found out you were here, and we've been in touch since you arrived.

Marjorie called you?

She's very concerned.

Wanted to be updated on your progress.

Wanted to be sure that Chloe doesn't end up back on the streets.

I understand.

How did she find us?

She's very persistent.

I'll give her that.

She called almost every homeless shelter in three states looking for the two of

you.

I thought everyone had given up on us.

I didn't realize she wants you to come and live with her and her family in

Cleveland until you get settled.

Of course, it's up to you, but the state has approved.

And if it doesn't work out, there's shelter there, too.

I have her number.

She'd really love to hear from you.

Thank you.

And one more thing.

When you and Chloe relocate, the state requires that it be kept confidential.

The charter we're in is very specific.

To receive the kind of financial aid that you've received, the resident's new

address must be kept anonymous.

I'm sorry.

When will we go?

This afternoon.

All arranged.

So soon? It's Christmas Eve.

And no one will know where we are?

No.

Chloe will be heartbroken.

How will someone else?

I love it.

That's great.

I'll get it.

Merry Christmas Eve.

Kind of a lame greeting.

That works for me.

How's your mom?

Oh, we're so waiting here.

Oh.

Merry Christmas.

You too, Mr. Miller.

Merry Christmas.

Yeah, Merry Christmas.

Well, I wanted you to have this.

Oh, you seem to like this.

What?

Oh, my gosh.

Wow, you shouldn't have spent so much. Neither should you.

I could take it back and exchange it for cash.

You exchange them, I'll exchange you.

Merry Christmas. Me too.

I like him.

Me too.

Have you worked things out with Hannah? Yeah, she apologized to Carly, which

actually surprised me, and yeah, we're good.

I know that we don't know about your mother.

proud of you especially me you've done everything you were asked to

do and so much more your ticket to paris

thanks

but uh i'm thinking i would

wait to go on the trip

Until we know what's going on with mom.

Okay. And then, I don't know, maybe you could go with me.

Sweetheart, you would want me to go with you?

Well, if we go... Hello?

This is Spencer.

Dr. Lewis.

Yeah.

Thank you.

It's gone.

Okay, Ray.

Meet him at the door. Make sure everybody gets enough to eat. Hey, off

Oh, look who's here.

Just for you.

For me?

I think I'm going to save him.

You know, for all my holiday guests.

You have so many.

Your family not here?

Oh, they're coming later. I wanted to get here early.

You guys are pretty busy, huh?

Mm -hmm. I was just seeing someone off.

Merry Christmas, Ruthie. What?

Just a little something my family wanted you to have.

Oh, my.

We thought it'd fit you.

Oh, I love it.

World's kindest authority figure.

It should say world's bossiest authority figure because, you know, you're bossy.

I'm not bossy. I just know what you should be doing.

So, any news about your mom?

The Beth news.

We got a call from the doctor, and she's cancer -free.

Hallelujah. Oh, my goodness.

So, where are Willie and Charlotte? I have my present for them.

Um, uh, they're not here.

This will explain everything.

Dearest Jennifer, when you read this, we'll be gone.

Ruthie will explain.

I'm so sorry we couldn't say goodbye.

But it's a fresh start for me and a normal life for Chloe.

I want you to know how thankful I am for you.

You helped Chloe more than you could possibly know.

She loves you and your family so much.

Ruthie and I gave her different colored shoelaces for Christmas.

She was so excited.

But then she said she only needed one pair.

I didn't understand at first, but now I do.

We love you, Jennifer, Chloe, and Charlotte.

I don't understand.

Because they have just waited one day, I didn't get a chance to say goodbye.

That's how it works.

The state requires that we keep their record confidential.

I'm so sorry.

So there's no way to find them?

Only if they contact you.

But you'll still come around and help us out, right? Every once in a while?

Come and keep me away.

This place is my second home.

Thank you for everything.

Hi.

What about me?

Thank you for something.

But, uh, no hug?

No. Maybe just a little one.

So much to do for other people, isn't there?

Yeah, more than I ever realized.

Where's Chloe and your mom?

They're gone.

We won't see them again.

Well, ain't near a ladle soup.

We're having ham.

It's okay.

Your father can ladle anything.

She did come here.

She put the pear she didn't need on our tree.

And she always said one pear was all she wanted.

Mate, give me the box.

Hey, this could be a new Christmas tradition.

It already is.

Yeah, shoelaces for Christmas.

Kind of lame, though.

Shoelaces?

It's what they stand for.

Keeping your shoes on.

More than that.

Now, anyway.

Whatever.

girls have fun and don't worry about us we'll be just fine without you guys look

i got a lot of stuff planned for me dad you do

hers huh how would that be pretty great

we're going to cleveland

Roll out that pencil, hang up the

mistletoe. Whoa, time is not sure you feel

it everywhere.

It's like there's love to spare that once the year matches.

We can't wait till the 25th. It's time now for

the countdown to Christmas.

Red bow on evergreen. White light on

every street.

Everybody rocking through the jingle bell.

We can't wait till the 25th. It's time now

for the count. down the crib