Original subtitles

[cheerful upbeat music]

♪ Snow has fallen and now it's all around ♪

♪ Bells are ringing their familiar sound ♪

♪ Children playing on their sleds outside ♪

♪ Something tells me that it's Christmas time ♪

- Merry Christmas.

♪ Oh, yeah

- What a day for your car to break down.

- Yeah, and it looks like Rideshare is gonna take forever,

so let's take the bus.

♪ Oh, yeah

♪ Santa hurry down the chimney tonight ♪

- Merry Christmas.

- Merry Christmas.

- You broke up with her

because she didn't want to watch a Christmas movie.

- It wasn't just that.

She said that anything to do with the holidays

gave her a headache.

I mean, who doesn't love Christmas?

- Yeah, but still.

- It wasn't right, Rick.

And we both knew it.

We didn't have that thing.

- What thing?

- You know, that feeling you get

when you just click with someone.

You laugh, the same word stuff

and just get each other.

- Right, of course.

The thing.

♪ Yeah

♪ Watching movies by the fireside ♪

[kid crying]

- Oh, no.

What's wrong?

Ah.

♪ Little chimney tonight

♪ The lights on the tree are shining ♪

♪ Shining bright for yours and mine ♪

- You're a hopeless romantic, Mark.

- I'm a hopeful one.

- Do you know what Santa thinks about lollipops?

He doesn't like them as much as candy canes.

He loves candy canes.

Do you know why? - Why?

- Because they remind him of Christmas.

And when you see a candy cane,

it means Christmas can't be far away.

- I like Christmas.

- I had a feeling.

And how about candy canes?

Yeah?

Ha!

- [Parent] Aw, thank you.

Isn't she nice?

- [Kate] For you.

Do you feel better?

- Thank you.

- Good.

[gentle music]

- Oh, oh.

Can you hold this for a sec?

I got it, I got, I got it.

[bag thudding]

- Thanks.

- I like your elf costume.

- What costume?

[Mark stutters]

It's for work.

- At the North Pole?

[Kate laughing]

I think you're on the wrong bus line.

[Kate laughing]

Is that for Christmas crafts?

- It's my favorite time of the year.

- Really?

- Yeah.

Who doesn't love Christmas?

- Right?

[bus thudding]

- Sorry.

- Why?

- Uh, this is my stop.

- Uh...

[gentle music]

[bus rumbling]

[gentle music]

- An elf, Mark?

Really?

- Look.

She left behind one of her earrings.

- If you start talking about Cinderella,

I might be physically sick.

- Why didn't I get her name?

[phone ringing]

- Hey, Josie, you at the shop?

- Almost, I stopped to grab us some coffee

and I have donuts.

- You're an angel.

- See you soon.

Oh.

[gentle music]

[Josie gasps]

[gentle music]

[gentle music continues] [bell ringing]

[gentle music continues] [bell ringing continues]

[gentle music continues] [doorbell chiming]

[gentle music continues]

[gentle music continues]

[gentle music continues] [footsteps tapping]

[gentle music continues] [doorbell chiming]

- Morning. - Morning.

Coffee?

- Remind me to give you a raise.

- It's already in your calendar.

- How efficient?

- Mm.

The kids are gonna love seeing you as miss elf today.

- Well, as long as somebody appreciates the effort.

[footsteps tapping]

- I think you better have a donut.

- Why?

- They always make me feel better when I'm feeling down.

- Who says I'm feeling down?

- You got another letter.

[soft somber music]

- And so the projections look good.

Thank you very much everyone.

I think we're off to a great start by the look of things.

I'll go over the changes with everyone more thoroughly

later this week.

[door clicks shut]

- Dear Ms. Snow,

this letter serves as notice that Klein Enterprises

will be moving forward with its plans

for the renovation of Founder Square.

We are exercising the buyout option in your lease,

and you'll need to vacate your premises by December 30th.

Please contact us to discuss the details of the buyout.

So this is happening?

- Not yet, it's not.

- But Kate, you've tried everything.

You even had a meeting with that congressman.

- Well, one thing I haven't done

is going straight to the top.

- Klein?

- Yep.

- Did you know you're missing an earring?

Or is that the new elf style?

- Oh, no.

It must have fallen off on the bus

when I was talking to that guy.

- What guy?

- Just this guy I met on the bus.

I dropped my bag and he helped me pick everything up.

He was very nice.

- Did you exchange numbers?

- We didn't even exchange names.

We barely talked.

Besides, I don't even have time

to think about bus guy or any guy.

- Okay. - So good.

- I don't believe you.

[Josie chuckles]

[soft gentle music]

[soft gentle music continues] [fingers tapping]

[soft gentle music continues] [keyboard clacking]

- Welcome to Missed Connections.

Did you see someone in town

and just didn't make the connection?

We can help.

[gentle music] [keyboard clacking]

Post a message here

and maybe that someone special will see it.

[gentle music]

Now, let's find that missed connection.

- Hey, just want to go over the plans for the-

You good?

- Yeah, yeah, of course.

What do you got there?

- I changed the font on the DuCross deal.

- Cool, cool.

Nice.

Thank you. - Okay.

I'll leave you to it.

- Yeah.

[playful music]

[gentle music]

- I'm so glad you had time to come for a visit.

I know how busy it is at the shop right now.

- Are you kidding?

I wouldn't miss our tree trimming tradition.

[parents laughing softly]

- Not to spoil the mood,

but what are you gonna do about the letters?

- Well, they can keep sending them,

but I'm not gonna give up on the shop yet.

- Yeah, honey, listen, Klein's offer-

- Dad, I know what you're gonna say,

but I'm not gonna accept it no matter how much it is.

Our lease isn't up for six years.

We can fight this.

- Kate, you are looking at this from only one side.

- This has been our family business for over 30 years.

That's the only side I care about.

- I just don't want you making yourself sick over this.

- Oh, wow.

Remember this?

I think I made it in the first grade.

Maybe I should make ornaments with the kids

on the next craft day.

- Honey, listen.

There isn't much time left.

They wanna force you out.

- I'm not gonna let them take us down without a fight.

I wrote a petition letter against Klein

for all the shops to sign and I'm gonna go down there myself

and talk to him.

I have to try, dad

Now, who wants eggnog?

[footsteps tapping]

[playful music]

[Rick knocking on door frame]

- Anything from Missed Connections?

- Just a lot of single women

claiming to be missing an earring.

- So what's next?

- I don't know.

Maybe I am just a hopeless romantic, like you said.

- No, you're just believing

in the whole Christmas magic thing.

I mean, what are the chances that your car breaks down

that day and you end up on the same bus?

- Yeah, it seems so right.

I won't give up hope just yet.

- Oh, the boss wants the stats on the Morgan deal.

- Right, I'm on it.

- That's for you.

[playful music]

[gentle music]

- Morning. - Morning.

Wow, you look great.

- Thank you.

- Hot coffee.

- Ah, thank you for the coffee.

It's freezing out.

Winter has definitely arrived.

And I got the stuff for the kids' craft thing later.

- The little munchkins should have fun decorating ornaments.

Such a great idea.

- How are we doing with volunteers for the Boxing Day party?

- We don't have anyone yet.

I think everyone's just so busy this year.

- Well, I made these flyers.

Maybe they'll help.

Can you hold down the fort for a few hours?

I'm gonna go see Klein.

- Ah, so that's why the power suit.

I was wondering why you were dressed up.

- Too much?

- On the contrary, a power suit exudes power.

- Hmm.

[playful music]

[Rick knocking on door frame]

- No elf.

I seriously doubt she's gonna see the post.

- I won't give up just yet.

I kind of moved things along this morning.

- What do you mean?

- I increased your ad visibility.

I posted that sketch you made of her on the bus stop.

- You what?

- Ah, don't blow a fuse.

I didn't say you were begging for your Cinderella

to come forth and try on a shoe or anything.

[playful music]

- Have you seen this elf?

To the delightful elf I met on the Crosstown Bus

on Monday morning, I have the earring you lost.

You have my heart?

Let's meet and trade!

You put my real phone number on there.

- It's great stuff, huh?

- You put this up where people can see it?

- Well, that's the point, isn't it?

- She's gonna think I'm nuts!

- Or she's gonna think it's hopelessly romantic.

- Or hopelessly cringey.

No, no.

I'm taking these down.

- There's no time. Don't you have the meeting with the boss at Thompsons?

- Oh, right.

Okay.

Don't do anything until I get back.

- I cannot promise anything.

[Mark groans]

[cars honking in distance]

[gentle music] [footsteps taping]

- Ah, thanks.

- Thanks.

[gentle music]

[gentle music continues] [footsteps tapping]

- I'd like to see Mr. Klein.

- Do you have an appointment?

- No, I don't.

- I'm sorry, but Mr. Klein is out of the office

and he doesn't see anyone without an appointment.

- But it's urgent.

Can I make an appointment?

- I'm sorry, he's booked up for months.

- Look, what's your name?

- Emily. - Emily.

Mr. Klein has a project that's gonna shut down my business

and I know that If I could just talk to him-

- Mr. Klein does not see anyone without an appointment.

- I see.

He's not really out of the office, is he?

That's just something you say.

Well, if he is here,

he is gonna have to appear at some point.

And when he does, I'll be right over here.

[soft playful music]

- We may have a situation down here.

[phone clicking]

[tense music] [footsteps tapping]

Sorry, but I didn't get your name.

- Kate Snow.

I'm one of the little businesses

Mr. Klein is trying to force out of Founder Square.

Someone should have a file on me.

[footsteps tapping]

- Hey!

It's you again.

- So it is.

I work a few blocks away over at Treasures From the Heart.

- Oh, I know that place.

- Nice work.

- Oh, thank you.

- Is this your shop?

- No, it's my dad's.

I just manage and do repairs.

Any wooden furniture, instruments?

You got 'em, I can fix 'em.

I'm Paul.

- Josie.

- Nice to meet you.

- That guitar, it's a classic.

- It is. How did you know that?

- My dad is a jazz guitarist.

We had guitars all around the house.

What is it going for?

- I'd be willing to part with it for 700 bucks.

- Oof.

It's kind of out of my budget.

- I can make you a deal.

- No, that's okay.

Thank you, anyways.

Nice to meet you.

- You too.

[tense music]

- Hi there.

Ready? - Let's go.

Come on.

We'll be there by five.

[tense music]

[tense music continues] [footsteps tapping]

- [Rick] And that's our initial plans

for the Founder Square Transformation.

Thoughts?

- Excuse me.

I'm sorry to interrupt your meeting,

but it's very important that I speak to Mr. Klein

about what's going on with the new renovation plans

in Founders Square.

- I'm sorry, who are you?

- I'm Kate Snow.

I own Treasures from the Heart Gift Shop,

the shop you're trying to shut down.

Is one of you Mr. Klein?

- Ms. Snow, you can't just barge in here.

- I know this is extreme,

but I know my shop means absolutely nothing

to you or your company,

but it means a lot to the people in my neighborhood.

These people have been coming to my shop

and dozens of other one of a kind businesses for decades

and suddenly we're being wiped away like we're nothing.

We're not nothing.

If you could just come down to my shop,

you'd see how important it's to the community

and what a mistake it is that you're making.

- I'm so sorry.

I've called security.

- Fine, I'll go.

But please have Mr. Klein call me.

[somber music]

- Sorry for the intrusion.

Let me speak to Ms. Snow for a moment.

[footsteps tapping]

- Emily!

Emily, I've got this.

Ms. Snow, could you wait a moment?

The person you want to speak to is Mark Goodwin.

You probably received a letter.

- Yes, but Mr. Klein is the one in charge.

- Mr. Goodwin is handling this part of the operation.

I'll make sure he gets in touch with you.

- I'd appreciate that.

- You're welcome.

[gentle music]

[phone ringing]

- [Mark] You've reached Mark Goodwin.

Please leave a message.

[phone beeps]

- Hey, buddy.

- If we can get the city to approve the new plans

and the permits come in by the end of the month,

we should be able to get started

with construction mid-January.

- I'll get over to the building department

first thing tomorrow, Mr. Klein.

- How's it going with the tenants?

- I've yet to hear back from a few of them.

I'm actually trying to head over

and see one of them right now.

- Which one?

- Treasures From the Heart.

- Let me know how it goes.

[cheerful festive music]

[cheerful festive music continues]

[cheerful festive music continues]

[cheerful festive music continues]

[cheerful festive music continues]

[cheerful festive music continues]

[gentle music]

[phone whistles]

[gentle music]

[gentle music continues] [doorbell chiming]

- [Phone] You have three new messages.

- [Kevin] Hi, Mark.

This is Kevin from the Planning Commission.

I have those answers for you.

Give me a call back.

- [Elizabeth] Hi, Mark.

This is Elizabeth from the rental company.

There have been some changes.

Please call in to discuss.

Give me a call when you get this.

- Can I help you with anything today?

- [Rick] Hey, buddy.

- You know, I used to have one of these as a kid.

Only that the train was red.

- Well, I know where you can find a set like that

if you're interested.

I know a guy.

He collects toy trains and lots of other stuff.

His name is Bill and he has a website

with all of his inventory on it.

I'm sure he could find something for you

if he doesn't already have it in stock.

- Thanks, I appreciate it.

I'm actually here to talk to Kate Snow.

Are you Kate?

- I'm Josie.

Kate should be back soon.

Is there something I can help you with?

- No, no, no.

I'm just gonna look around and wait.

This stuff is amazing.

[playful music]

[playful music continues] [doorbell chiming]

- What happened?

- You are not gonna believe this.

- You're the elf.

- Well, not today.

- I've been looking for you.

- I saw.

- Oh.

Ah yeah, I can explain that.

- How'd you find out where I work?

- I didn't.

My name's Mark.

- I'm Kate.

- Kate.

This is crazy.

I came to see you because I work for Klein Enterprises.

I'm Mark Goodwin.

- The one sending me letters

telling me I need to leave my shop?

- The same one, yeah.

- Josie, could you watch the store for a few minutes?

- Of course.

- Why don't we talk in my office?

[footsteps tapping]

I'm sure you heard I tried to see Klein today.

- No, actually.

- I just wanted Klein to know

that our shop is still relevant.

If he would just come down and see this place in person,

he'd realize how much people love us and value us.

- Kate, that's not how big business works.

- I realize that.

But this is an unusual situation.

We don't just sell unique gifts here.

We're a part of the community.

We hold classes for kids, events where people come together.

Isn't he interested in that at all?

- Yes, of course he is.

Klein has an ambitious vision for this block.

He wants to renovate the whole thing.

It's gonna bring a lot more business

and really help the community.

- But not the businesses that are already here.

And what if I refuse to leave?

I still have time on my lease.

- Kate, Klein already owns the block.

The lease buyout offer is very generous,

but if you try to fight it, you could wind up with nothing.

Look, I really want to help you and the others

get the best outcome.

With what we're offering, you could find a bigger space.

- But it won't be this space.

I'm not giving up.

Now if you'll excuse me, I have to get back to work.

Oh and...

You can have these back.

- For what it's worth, it was really nice meeting you.

[somber music]

[somber music continues]

- Hey, bus guy!

Here is the information about the trains.

Maybe it'll work out for you.

- Thanks.

[somber music]

- Thank you for coming, everyone.

I know we're all facing the same situation

and I wanted us to get together to brainstorm some ideas.

Our shops have...

They've been like homes of family members

and I refuse to be forced out.

We have to find a way to stop Klein from moving forward.

- I was here when your father started up this establishment,

Kate, been here a long time.

But I have to say their buyout offer is a good one

for someone like me who's thinking of retiring soon.

- I know they're offering a lot of money,

but can money replace memories?

Can money replace dreams?

Because that's what these shops are built on.

The dreams of our grandparents, of our parents,

and some cases, our own.

- I've owed my art gallery for so many years.

What else would I do for a living?

- Kate and I wrote this letter to Klein

asking him to reconsider keeping our shops open.

- We hope you'll read it and consider signing it.

If we don't stick together,

we'll all be forced to give up our shops.

- Just because I may not want to stay

doesn't mean I won't fight for any fellow neighbors.

Who knows?

I've always been one to believe in Christmas miracles.

- Thank you, all of you.

And yes, it is the time for miracles

and maybe a little action to make those miracles happen.

Thanks, Estelle.

[car honking]

- We prefer not to resort to forceful tactics,

but this is a billion dollar deal we're talking about, Mark,

one that'll bring untold dollars into the local economy.

- I understand that, of course.

But these people have a long history there.

One tenant I talked to, she's second generation.

Her father started the shop 30 years ago.

- 30 years is a long time.

And that history is old and crumbling

and in dire need of renovating.

It's not like they can't move their inventory

to another location.

The money we're offering is nothing to sneeze at.

Come the end of the month,

we will move more forcefully if need be on all accounts.

- I'll get it done.

[gentle music]

- Oh.

[gentle music]

- Hey!

Josie, right?

- Yeah, hi. - Hey.

- You sold the guitar?

- Yeah, a classic like that

tend to get scooped up pretty quick.

You really liked it, didn't you?

- I have always wanted to learn how to play.

My dad tried to teach me as a kid

and I would lose focus every time.

It drove him nuts.

- I mean, if you wanted lessons, I could teach you.

- I can't really afford lessons right now.

I'm spending all my money on Christmas presents

and I might be out of a job soon, so...

- Well, in the spirit of Christmas,

I can give you some free lessons in exchange for some help.

- What kind of help?

- I want to find my mom a really great gift this year.

Something special.

I've been looking myself, but I've had no luck.

Maybe you can keep an eye open for something in your shop?

- Sure, I could do that.

How many lessons would be free?

- Let's say seven.

- Wow, really?

Where?

- Here.

I close up shop around 5:30

and then give lessons after we lock up.

- Sure.

[gentle music]

[gentle music continues]

[gentle music continues]

[gentle music continues]

- Incoming.

Have we gotten that Christmas miracle yet?

Merry Christmas.

- Not quite.

- You're an elf again.

- It's the day I do crafts with the kids.

What are you doing here?

- Your flyer said that you needed volunteers

for your Boxing Day party.

Where do I sign up?

- He bought a bunch of stuff too.

- What?

- It was of his own free will.

He got some cute things.

That train set,

some of those old opera books you got at the estate sale.

Oh, and that neat 1920s lamp.

- I love that lamp.

- Yeah, it's for my sister. She's gonna love it too.

- Shouldn't you be evicting old ladies from their homes

or pricing out bulldozing equipment?

- I'm free after five.

Does that work?

- Look, I know what you're doing.

You're just here to get me to sign the buyout offer.

- Of course I am.

But, I'm also here to help.

- It's not gonna work,

this whole playing nice thing,

because I'm convinced the store is worth saving.

- And I look forward to hearing your arguments.

You need the free labor, don't you?

- Fine.

I'll see you around six.

- Okay.

- Don't even think it.

[gentle music]

- You volunteered to do what?

- Make Christmas decorations or something.

I'm not sure.

- So that's your plan?

- Hey, at least she's talking to me now.

I'll make the rest up as I go along.

- You're not doing this just to spend time with her, right?

[gentle music]

[gentle music continues]

- Here you go, have a good night.

Hey, bus guy.

- Hey, Josie.

- Here, let me get you an apron so you don't ruin that suit.

May as well complete the look.

- I guess.

- Welcome Santa's little helper.

[gentle music]

- Well, at least you're on time.

- At your service.

- Hmm.

- I've gotta run.

I have my guitar lesson.

- Oh, that's right, I forgot.

- You'll be okay?

- Absolutely fine.

- Okay.

Oh, I forgot to tell you.

We got 25 more positive reviews today online.

- Really?

That's amazing.

- Oh yeah.

Oh, and Tony called from the paper.

He said he's gonna write a feature on us.

He also said that Christmas is only Christmas

because of our magical store.

- Well, isn't that nice?

- I know, right?

We're still going viral.

Have fun you two.

- So how are you at stenciling?

I was thinking we'd paint glass ornaments with snowmen

and Christmas trees and we can hang them from the ceiling

along with the garland.

And after that, we can work on centerpieces for the tables.

- Okay, sounds good.

Wait, what's stenciling?

Is it like that graffiti spray paint thing?

- Sort of.

Just help me put the paper down and we'll get started.

[gentle music]

[indistinct chattering]

- Thank you.

I know. - Of course.

- In some big LA pawn shop now.

[gentle music]

Goodnight.

Come on in.

[train honking]

- Sorry, I shouldn't laugh.

- I didn't say I was Picasso, okay?

I haven't painted since I was like 10.

- I can see that.

- So tell me more about this Boxing Day party.

How'd you guys start it?

- My dad started it years ago.

In England, they celebrate Boxing Day on the 26th.

Since workers on big estates had to work on Christmas,

Boxing Day was the day they had off

and open presents and stuff like that.

A lot of people we knew were shop owners, like my dad.

Since they had to work on Christmas...

- He would throw a party for them the next day.

- Yeah.

- Your dad sounds like a great guy.

- Yeah, he is. He's retired now.

- So it's just you and Josie?

- Yeah.

- So it must be hard to have a personal life

when you're tied to the shop like that.

- I see what you did.

- What? - That's a nice try.

- What?

- I wouldn't change a single thing about the shop

or the hours that I do because I love it.

- And you could love it in another location.

- I could, but I don't want to.

[gentle guitar music]

- My fingers are cramping.

- That's normal.

It'll take a little while to get used to that.

- This is way harder than I thought.

- It's just because it's new.

Your brain is absorbing new information.

- Here, you play.

I need a break.

[gentle guitar music]

♪ We wish you a merry Christmas ♪

♪ We wish you a merry Christmas ♪

♪ We wish you a merry Christmas and a happy New Year ♪

- That was really good.

- Thanks.

So what makes you pick up a guitar now?

- It was my New Year's resolution to start.

I'm a little late on that one.

Hey, could you teach me that song?

The simple version?

I'd like to try and play it for my dad,

even if it sounds terrible.

I don't care.

- Sure.

When will you see him?

- On Christmas Day.

- Oh, then you're gonna want to come every day.

You need to practice.

- Do you have time?

- I can make time.

- I was thinking about the gift for your mom.

I might have found something.

You should come by the shop.

- Okay, I will.

But first, let's see you play that G chord.

[Kate laughing]

- That did not happen.

- No, I swear.

I thought I'd found the real Santa and I followed

this poor guy around the store asking for a toy train.

My parents were mortified, but I was only six.

- So I guess you can be forgiven.

- Yeah.

You know, you're exactly who I thought you'd be.

- What do you mean?

- When we met that day on the bus,

I thought you were this funny, beautiful girl

who also happened to love Christmas and I was right.

I just regretted not getting your name.

- So you put up flyers.

- That was not me.

My friend Rick got a little carried away.

- Oh, so I don't have your heart.

[phone ringing]

- Now it's work.

- Ah, you should go.

- Yeah, I gotta go.

But since neither of us changed each other's minds

about staying or leaving, how about I come back tomorrow?

We could work on that garland.

- Okay.

But only if you promise to actually think about

what our shop means to the whole community.

- Deal.

Six work?

- Okay.

[phone ringing]

Hey, dad.

- Hey, sweetheart.

How are you?

- I'm good.

Someone was just asking about the Boxing Day party

and it made me think of you.

Just wanted to see how you're doing.

- Well, I'm breathing in and out,

so I guess I'm doing pretty good.

How about you?

How's the shop?

- Oh, busy.

You know, the usual.

Still working on trying to save it.

- Yeah, well, you do what you think is best.

Try to take it easy, okay?

I worry about you.

Don't be too busy to eat, okay?

- [Kate] Just stopping to get something now.

I love you, dad.

- Love you back.

[gentle music] [people chattering]

- [Kate] Estelle.

[Estelle laughing]

- Hey, Kate.

- I guess Estella is work, huh?

- Wait, Kate, I was just doing my job.

- By your job you mean coming to my shop

and flirting with me,

then going after Estella and flirting with her too?

Is that your whole strategy?

- Wait, hold on a minute.

What are you implying?

- I have no idea if anything you've said to me

is true or not.

- This is clearly all a big misunderstanding.

I was having dinner with Estelle because I was-

- You know, just don't.

And I think you can skip helping out tomorrow.

I don't like the way you do business.

- Kate!

[car honking]

- It was like they were on a date or something.

He was trying to charm her into signing the deal.

- If I didn't know you better,

I'd say you sound a little jelly.

- Jealous?

Please, no, she is welcome to him.

I am not interested.

- Boy.

Did he trigger you or what?

- Well that met a crowded bus stuff.

You know what, he was trying to use that to get me to sign.

- Was he?

- What, are you on his side now?

- No, no, of course not.

But be honest.

When you met him on that bus, didn't you feel something?

- That does not matter.

- Doesn't it?

- What's that?

- Paul lent it to me.

I don't have a guitar, so he said I could use this one.

- Well, that's generous of him.

- Yeah, he's pretty nice.

- Well, at least you have a nice guy.

- Yeah, but he seems to be

a little too popular with the ladies.

- What, he has like groupies or something?

- No, but there's this one girl there

and she seems too friendly.

- Maybe she's just another customer.

Don't jump to conclusions.

I'm gonna go unpack this in the back.

- So she thinks you were faking everything.

- She wouldn't even let me explain.

- Maybe you need to stop thinking about her

as your dream elf and think about her as just business.

I think the romance ship has sailed.

- That's it, that's your advice?

Unless you can get Klein to change his mind

about her store, your job is always gonna be the problem.

[gentle music]

- Hi, Josie.

- Oh, hey Estelle.

- Is Kate here?

- Yeah, she's just back in her office.

[soft music]

- So you signed the deal?

- Yes.

It stinks, I know,

but I can't go down with the sinking ship.

- What did he say to get you to cave?

- He didn't say anything.

I'm the one who asked for more money,

so we had dinner and negotiated.

He gave me a little more and I took it.

- Really, he didn't try to sweet talk you or anything?

- No, I wish he would've though.

I tried flirting with him, but I guess I'm not his type.

- So what now?

- I don't know.

I don't know if I should try to reopen elsewhere

or do something new.

My head is still spinning.

- Mine too.

- Do you hate me?

- No, no.

Of course not.

I just, I can't believe this is happening to us all.

So when's your last day?

- Day after Christmas.

We'll have a blowout sale and be done with it.

- Wow, that's soon.

- Que sera sera, right?

- Will you stop in before you go for the Boxing Day party.

- Of course, wouldn't miss it.

I'm sorry, Kate.

I really am.

- It's okay.

We all have to do what's right for us.

I wish you nothing but happiness, Estelle.

[gentle music]

[cheerful music]

[cheerful music continues]

[Mark knocking on window]

[cheerful music]

- Hi.

- Hi.

- You eaten?

- No.

- Wanna?

- Why?

What are you up to?

- Nothing.

It's just dinner.

- Why should I even be talking to you?

- Because I have two warm subs

that are getting colder by the minute and two bags of chips.

You can have both of them if you want.

Okay, this one's for you.

Alright.

- Hey, bus guy's back.

I have my lesson,

but I'll wrap some more gifts in the morning.

- Perfect.

Have a great lesson.

- See you tomorrow.

- They're from Emilio's.

You want turkey or ham? - Turkey.

- I had a feeling.

Listen, about the other night.

I know what it looked like,

running out of here to go meet with Estelle.

I should have just told you the truth.

- No, I was out of line.

I overreacted.

I apologize.

- I know the idea of the store closing is painful,

but I just don't want you to end up with nothing.

- Well, Estelle said you gave her a pretty good deal.

- Glad she thinks that.

- She also said you were nice.

- I am nice.

[upbeat guitar music]

[both laughing]

- Very good.

See, it's coming along.

- Maybe I can start a band in a couple years.

- I'd come see you.

- This has been so much fun.

You have a lot of patience.

- You make it easy.

- Is it my scintillating personality or my charming looks?

- Both.

- Are you flirting with me?

- Would it be okay if I was?

- Sure.

- Okay, so I have a proposal.

I propose we give you our best offer

and we don't talk about it anymore

until you make up your mind.

- Really?

- Yeah, I am not here to persuade you, Kate.

This is your decision to make.

But in exchange,

I would like to keep helping with the Boxing Day party.

- And why would you wanna do that?

- Because I want to spend more time with you.

That day seeing you on the bus was like...

- Like what?

- Like a Christmas wish come true.

- That was corny.

- I know it's corny, but I like corny and I really like you.

- I like you too.

And the whole bus thing, Me too.

But Mark...

- I know what you're gonna say.

And let's just put business away

and let's see where this goes.

- We might be doing a little magical thinking here,

just wishing it would all go away.

- Well, Christmas is the time for magic, isn't it?

- I think it is.

[gentle music]

- Yeah, I will have it to him by the end of next week.

Okay, great.

Thanks.

- Hey.

Can you cover the Hudson meeting later?

- Sorry, no can do.

I'm off to see Kate.

- Again? - Yeah.

- Did she agree to the buyout?

- Not exactly.

- So you're trying to convince her?

- Not exactly.

- What exactly are you doing?

- We agreed not to talk about business for a while.

- And you don't see the flaw in that plan.

- All I know is I'm getting to know someone amazing.

Look, I gotta go.

All right, see you later.

Have a good day!

[cheerful music]

[upbeat festive music]

[upbeat festive music continues]

♪ Now it's that time of year when magic's in the air ♪

♪ There's so many smiley face always everywhere ♪

♪ You can hear those carol sounds ♪

♪ From outside your front door

♪ That's when you know it's almost Christmas. ♪

♪ Christmas roast and champagne toast ♪

♪ And Frosty in the snow

- Isn't that cute?

♪ [indistinct singing] kissing under mistletoe ♪

[upbeat festive music]

- What if we- - Yeah?

- Well, our deal lasts until you've made a decision

and you're still thinking.

Right?

- Right.

- So I think we should hang out somewhere

that's not this shop.

- Like a date?

- Not like a date.

A date.

I've got tomorrow off.

And if you could get Josie to cover for a few hours,

I propose we go and do every Christmassy thing

we can think of.

- Do you think that's a good idea?

- I don't know.

I just know I'm having a really good time

getting to know you.

- Me too.

[upbeat festive music]

Okay, this has officially been

the most Christmassy day I have ever spent.

Christmas concert in the park.

Ice skating downtown Bellevue.

It's to bad we didn't have those ugly Christmas sweaters

for that contest they had.

- I know, right?

I have some at home

that definitely would've been contenders.

- So what's next?

- Well, this was advertised as a Christmas market.

- Oh, like the ones in Europe?

- Yeah.

Yeah, I think this one's a little dinky, though,

to be compared to those.

- I don't care.

I love it.

This has been a perfect date.

- Well, let's make it even more perfect.

How about I buy you a cup of hot cocoa?

- Sure.

- Hey, you.

- Hey.

I finally found some time to come check out your shop.

This place is awesome.

- Well, your timing is excellent.

I wanna show you what I picked for your mom

and you can tell me if I'm on the right track.

- Okay.

- Just let me deal with these customers first.

- Take your time.

I'll look around.

♪ Hark the Herald Angels sing

♪ Glory to the newborn king

- This has been amazing, Mark.

Thank you.

I'm usually so busy at Christmas,

I never get to do any of these things.

- I guess you just need to find

the right person to do it with.

- So where did young Mark

get his extreme love for Christmas?

- Ah, the Mark story.

- Yep, from the beginning.

Chapter one.

- Well, I was born in a small log cabin.

- Just the highlights.

- It's not much to tell.

I grew up in a small town in California

and my parents still live there.

I have one sister, she's a doctor.

- Wow, impressive.

- And she has my niece who I spoil completely.

- As any good uncle should.

Are you gonna see them for Christmas?

- No, because of this deal, I have to...

- To work.

- Yeah.

- How did you ever start working for someone like Klein?

- Klein's the best company in the state.

He's not all that bad, Kate.

- You couldn't tell that by me.

- He's not.

Klein, he started from the bottom working construction

for this builder here in town.

And apparently the guy took him under his wing

and mentored him and he tries to do the same for us.

- So he is a good boss.

- He treats his staff well

and never cuts corners when it comes to quality.

- And what about what he's doing to Founder Square?

- The project's gonna bring a lot of money

into the community.

Things change, Kate.

Old buildings come down, new ones go up.

It doesn't mean you have to lose.

- I thought you weren't gonna try and persuade me.

- You're right.

You're right.

Yeah, okay.

Forget about it for now and we'll go back to the date.

I have a few more surprises in store.

- What else could you possibly have up your sleeve?

- The Ladies Victorian Society

is doing a popcorn stringing demonstration.

- Oh, well, by all means, we can't miss that.

- Nope.

[Mark chuckling]

- My mom is gonna love this.

This is the fastest that I've ever found her gifts.

- Well, you should've been coming here all along.

Ta-da!

- You have great taste in gifts and music

and hot dogs, evidently.

See you tonight.

[gentle music]

- Isn't it magical, all the lights?

- Yeah.

- Oh look, Mr. Doug always does something so nice.

- Oh, do you mind?

My hands are cold.

- Well, we can't have that.

[gentle music]

Some of my favorite memories

are on the street at Christmas time.

- Really?

- Yeah, my dad always worked on Christmas.

So my mom and I would come down

and he'd take some time away from the shop

and we'd walk the streets and look at the lights together.

It always made me feel so, I don't know, safe.

- Something tells me you take after your dad.

- Yeah, I guess I do.

Or at least I'd like to.

He's always been my rock.

And after he had a heart attack last year,

I just want him to be proud of me.

- I can't imagine anyone not being proud of you, Kate.

[gentle music]

- Oh, sorry.

I was just putting stuff away so I can close up.

- Is it that late?

Josie, I'm so sorry.

- It's no problem.

- I should go.

- Are you sure you don't wanna come in?

We have cookies. - Josie.

- No, no.

I'm good.

Thank you for the amazing day, Kate.

- I had an amazing time.

- Me too.

[gentle music]

- You still think he's the enemy?

- Let's lock up.

- Oh, come on. I want the details.

[upbeat guitar music]

[upbeat guitar music]

I did it!

I actually got through the whole thing.

Ugh, I'm bummed though.

Only two more lessons left.

- Really, I thought we had more.

- We did, but I have so many errands

I need to run before next week.

It's almost Christmas.

So see you soon.

- Wait.

Josie.

I'll see you next time.

[gentle music]

[gentle music continues]

- Merry Christmas.

Hi, Mr. Doug.

- Kate, Josie.

I have some bad news.

I've decided to take the deal.

- But I thought-

- I know and I'm sorry, but the wife and I wanna retire.

And when Klein increased their offer, we couldn't say no.

- I understand.

- It doesn't mean you should stop fighting, Kate.

Although I have to tell you,

Martin and Gwen are signing too, and I think Larry.

- I appreciate you coming in to tell me.

- I'll definitely be here for the party, though.

I've been looking forward to it all year.

[gentle music]

[phone ringing]

- Got a minute?

- Rick, look at this.

When Mr. Doug sent in his contracts,

he also sent in these old blueprints

from when Founder Square was built.

- Cool.

- Mark, about Founder Square.

How's it going with the last holdouts?

- We have all but one, sir.

I'm just giving her a little bit more time

to think about it.

- Unfortunately, time is up.

Looks like we're moving up the deadline

for compliance to the 26th.

- What?

- Our investors are eager to get the project going

and they need a firm commitment by then

to get paperwork in before the new year.

I trust you two will make this happen?

- Mr. Klein, that's Christmas.

The last Christmas these shops will ever have.

You told them the end of the year.

- I understand that, Mark.

They can stay open until midnight on the 25th.

That should get them all their Christmas sales.

- But some of them have plans on the 26th.

If we could just maybe extend the-

- Mark, I need you to get this done.

Can you or do I need to turn it over to someone else?

- I'll handle it.

- Knew I can count on you.

- It is lousy, but...

- It's really gonna take a Christmas miracle

to save her shop now.

- Well, they haven't called to fight yet,

so I am not gonna cry.

- Maybe we should.

Maybe it'll make us both feel better.

- What's wrong?

Is it the store?

- No.

I mean, yes, but it's also Paul.

I'm not sure what to do about him.

- Why, what happened?

- I really like him and I think he likes me.

- So what's the problem?

- I had a feeling he was gonna ask me out the other night,

but then he didn't.

Maybe he's not sure how I feel about him.

I was gonna tell him, but then I didn't.

- Well, that could go on forever.

- I know.

I should just go over there and tell him, right?

- Absolutely.

- And you should do the same with Mark.

- I kind of already did.

- I knew it.

- But it's complicated, Josie.

Like as much as we don't talk about it,

this thing with the store is not going away.

And we are never gonna agree on that.

- You're the one always talking about Christmas miracles.

Maybe one will turn up.

[gentle music]

[footsteps tapping]

- Room is right there.

[cheerful music] [person giggling]

[cheerful music continues]

[somber music]

[phone clicking]

[somber music]

[doorbell chiming]

[somber music]

- Happy holidays.

Hey, wasn't expecting to see you today.

We had a huge class of kids, not wearing my elf costume-

- Do you have a minute to talk?

- Sure.

Oh, I got you a little something.

[somber music]

- Can we go outside?

- Okay.

[somber music]

[somber music continues] [doorbell chiming]

What is it?

- The deadline has moved.

All businesses need to be out by the 25th.

- On Christmas.

- Kate, if you don't sign,

they'll withdraw the offer and they'll just force you out.

- You mean you'll force me out.

You are a part of them, aren't you?

I guess I should have faced reality a lot sooner than this.

- And maybe that's my fault.

Maybe I should have pushed harder, but I didn't want to-

- To break our deal.

Let's just not talk about it and maybe it'll go away.

- Look Kate, the day we met, it was like a dream.

- But I think it's time to wake up.

Look, I appreciate you coming to tell me in person, but-

- Kate, please don't do this.

- I think you should go.

[soft emotional music]

[phone dings]

[soft emotional music]

[Josie exhales]

[soft emotional music] [phone clicking]

[soft emotional music continues]

[soft emotional music continues]

[bell ringing]

[emotional music]

[emotional music continues]

[emotional music continues]

[emotional music continues]

[emotional music continues]

[emotional music continues]

[gentle music]

- We can't even have our Boxing Day party.

- I know.

I have to go tell my dad there's no last minute reprieve.

- He'll understand, Kate.

Your dad adores you and he knows how hard you fought.

I'll watch the store until you get back.

- Thanks, Josie.

Wait, don't you have a lesson with Paul?

- I was going to.

- And?

- I saw him with that girl again.

They seemed pretty familiar.

I don't know.

- Josie, shouldn't you at least find out who she is?

You're the one always telling me to take a chance.

Listen to your own sage advice.

- Come here.

[gentle music]

[gentle music continues]

[phone ringing]

- Hey, you've reached Kate Snow.

Have a Merry Christmas and leave me a message.

[phone beeps]

[gentle music]

[gentle music continues]

[car rumbling]

[gentle music]

Thank you.

- I heard the car, but I didn't think it could be you.

- I decided to come early.

How's dad doing?

- He's all right, just relaxing right now.

I missed you.

- I missed you too.

[door creaking open]

- Sweetie, let me get your coat.

- Thanks, mom.

- Hot cocoa? - Yeah.

Thank you.

- I thought I heard your voice.

- Dad.

- Oh, what, is it Christmas already?

- No, I just came early.

- Good, you had me worried for a second.

- Mom says you're feeling good,

eating right like you're supposed to?

- Yes, Dr. Kate.

I'm all good.

A little older, a little wiser, a little more debonair.

So how's everything in the store?

- Well, that's actually why I came up early.

I wanted to talk to you about it.

I couldn't get Klein to change their minds.

Everybody has to be out by Christmas Day

and they take over the property on the 26th.

I'm so sorry, dad.

- Oh honey, don't cry.

And don't apologize.

It's the march of progress.

- I tried.

I tried to keep it going for as long as I could.

I thought maybe, I don't know.

Maybe I could save it.

- Do you know how proud I am of you?

I love how much you love the store and how you took it over

and kept it going when I got sick.

But I'm okay letting it go now.

- You're just saying that. - No, no.

Honestly, honey, I'm not upset.

It was my life for a long time and I loved it.

But I'm happy being here with your mom now,

and I'm happy with whatever you want to do.

If you want to find another location, that works.

And if you want to pursue some other dreams, that works too.

The most important thing to me and your mom

is you do what makes you happy.

- I love you, dad.

- I love you too, sweetheart.

You're my greatest treasure from the heart.

[both laughing softly]

- Hot cocoa.

- Yes, please.

Thank you, darling.

- Thanks, mom.

[gentle music]

[gentle music continues]

- It's getting late.

I'm beat.

- I think this is the last of it, except for Kate's.

- Josie called.

She said that Kate signed.

I just gotta go to the shop in the morning and get it.

- Do you want me to do it?

- No, no, I'll do it.

She already thinks I'm a jerk.

I don't want her thinking I'm a coward too.

- I'm sorry that didn't work out better.

- Yeah, me too.

[Mark exhales]

[gentle music]

- Josie!

Are you coming to your lesson?

- Actually, I have to go run out

and get some Christmas presents.

Can we skip tonight?

- Yeah, sure, of course.

- Thanks.

Sorry, I just have so much going on

with the shop closing right now.

- Wait.

I'll see you tomorrow?

[gentle music]

- [Parent] I thought you were going to bed.

- I will soon.

This is so good.

Are you ever gonna tell me how you make it so tasty?

- Mm, sure.

It's made with love.

- You sound like a commercial.

[both chuckling]

- So what's going on, hmm?

Besides the shop.

- What do you mean?

I met someone.

His name is Mark.

- Oh, that's wonderful, honey.

- And he works for the Klein company.

I don't know, I thought...

I thought maybe he could be someone special.

- So you have feelings for him?

- Yeah.

- And he for you?

- I think so.

- Then don't let his job define who he is

or what is possible for the two of you.

- He put me out of business.

- So he's a bad man?

- No.

No, he's not.

He thinks the new development will bring jobs

and a lot to the community.

- Yeah, I am beginning to see the problem.

Look, honey, if you like this Mark

and you really think that he could be the one,

then don't let Klein or the shop stand in your way.

Sometimes you only get one chance to grab that brass ring.

- Thanks, mom.

- Aw, anytime.

[gentle music]

[gentle music continues]

[gentle music continues]

[gentle music continues]

[gentle music continues]

- Here you go, Merry Christmas.

[doorbell chiming]

- Hi, Josie.

- Oh, hey.

I have those papers for you.

- Thanks.

Is Kate here?

- No, she went to go visit her parents.

- So is she gonna find a new space?

- I don't know, she didn't say.

What are they turning this place into, anyway?

- Mixed use, high tech kind of space.

- So much for happy Hollywood endings.

You forgot something the other day.

- I'm sorry about all this.

It really is a wonderful shop.

[gentle music]

[gentle music continues]

[gentle music continues]

[gentle music continues]

[gentle music continues]

[gentle music continues] [wrapping paper rustling]

[gentle music continues]

- [Mark] A bus with mistletoe.

[gentle music]

[exciting music] [paper rustling]

[exciting music continues]

[Rick knocking on door frame]

- Hey, don't forget we have that meeting with Klein later.

What are you working on?

- Hopefully a Christmas miracle.

[cheerful music]

- Good morning.

- Good morning.

- How did shopping go, you find everything you needed?

- What?

Oh, yeah, I did.

- You seem stressed. Are you okay?

- Yeah, I'm just really overwhelmed with everything.

- I can imagine.

I was wondering if

maybe you wanted to go out sometime?

- Aren't you dating that girl?

I saw you with her the other night.

- Who? No, I'm am not dating her.

She's my kid sister.

- Oh.

- Yeah.

She's visiting from California for the holidays.

- She's your sister?

- Yeah.

- So you're asking me out?

- Yeah, I mean, I was trying to.

- I'd love to.

[cheerful music]

- Mm.

Your mom is a fantastic baker.

- I made some of those.

[doorbell chiming]

- Thank you.

- Uh, look who's here.

- I guess I better go talk to him.

I didn't think I'd see you here.

- Mark, we're supposed to be on our way to a meeting.

- I know, sir.

I just really thought that you'd want to see this place.

This is Kate Snow.

She runs this business.

Kate, Mr. Klein.

- Young lady.

Mark, why do I need to see this place?

- Well, I was doing some research and it turns out

that this is the oldest surviving example

of a building by A. B. Stoddard.

- What?

You're kidding.

- No.

- Rick, I need a flashlight.

- What's going on?

- I thought about what you said.

- What I said.

- Yeah.

I just...

I realized that I always thought that this project

was a done deal and I never considered

that there could be any compromises.

So I'm trying to find one.

Remember when I told you that Mr. Klein worked for a builder

when he first started out?

- The one who took him under his wing.

- Right, A. B. Stoddard.

Well, I was checking out some old blueprints

and guess who built this building?

- Wait, are you saying

this building is historic or something?

Because I already checked all that.

- Not historical, per se, but meaningful.

Especially to Mr. Klein.

- Well, I have to come back with proper tools,

but there's no doubt about it.

This is a Stoddard.

Built to last.

- Yep, built in his first year of business.

And it's a shame we have to tear it down.

- Okay, Mark.

I know a pitch when I hear one.

What are you proposing?

- Well, I did happen to check in with the architect

and there is a way to incorporate this shop as is

into the existing plans.

I know it might be a little more money.

- Are you trying to manipulate me?

- No, I would never do that, sir.

- Well, whatever you are doing, it worked.

This building is too solid to tear down.

- And since Ms. Snow is such a good tenant,

I thought that maybe we could...

- Sign her to a lease?

Ms. Snow?

- Yes, sir.

- I would like to create a display

on the works of A.B. Stoddard.

Would you have room in your shop for something like that?

- I can make some space right now, Josie.

- He could have the whole back corner.

- Well, then I guess we have a deal.

Mark, Rick, we need to get to that meeting.

- What just happened?

Mark, wait!

Mark!

- Can I have a minute?

- We will wait in the car.

- Thanks.

- I can't believe you just did that.

You could have lost your job.

- I would do anything for you, Kate.

These last few days without you have shown me that.

I've [stutters]

I've really missed you.

- I've missed you, too.

My mom said that if I thought you were the one,

I shouldn't let anything stand in my way.

- And do you think that I'm the one?

- I do.

- By the way, I loved your Christmas present.

In fact,

I got you the same thing.

- The bus?

- The mistletoe.

[cheerful music]

[cheerful music continues]

- Real hardwood, that was the secret.

- So, did your dad like your song?

- He loved it.

Said I'm a pro in the making.

And it's all because of you.

[gentle music]

- By the way...

[cheerful music]

It's all yours.

- No, I can't take that.

That's way too valuable.

I could buy it.

If you take installments?

- Okay.

I guess I could sell it to you for 100 bucks

and dinner next week.

- Mm, I accept.

[cheerful music]

- Everybody came.

- Did you have any doubts?

- Mom!

Dad, you made it!

- Hey.

We wouldn't miss it for the world.

The place looks amazing, honey.

I'm so proud of you.

- Thanks, dad.

Oh, mom, dad, this is Mark.

- Hi. - Hi.

- So this is Mark.

I have a lot of questions for you.

[all laughing]

- Oh, Kate, I think it's time.

[Mark clearing throat]

[utensil clinking glass]

- Attention, everyone.

I'd like to make a toast.

I have so many people here

to thank for this wonderful party.

Mr. Klein, you saved the store

and I thank you so very much.

And to my parents who began this dream

that I hope to continue for another 30 years.

To Josie, my best friend and my sister at heart.

And to everyone here

who's supported me in my dreams over the years.

To Mark, because, well, you know why.

Thank you everyone for making this the best holiday ever

and a Christmas miracle come true.

- [All] Cheers!

[glasses clinking]

- That was a pretty good speech for a Christmas elf.

- Meant every word.

- I almost forgot.

I believe that this is yours.

♪ Are you ready for Christmas

♪ Are you having some fun

♪ Are you ready for Christmas

♪ It's only just begun, oh, oh

- How do they look?

- Like a perfect match.

- Thank you for being my Christmas miracle.

- Thanks for being mine.

♪ Coming home to a merry cheer

♪ Lights are on, can you see 'em shine ♪

♪ It's a part now everywhere

♪ Are you ready for Christmas

♪ Are you decking the halls

♪ Are are you ready for Christmas ♪

♪ We'll be having a ball

♪ Are you ready for Christmas

- Cheers.

[music continues]