Original subtitles

This program is rated G and considered acceptable for all ages

Well,

it's that time of year again so get ready for a Christmas music block only

on

David, my man.

Let's crack it.

No, I know.

Not Lara.

Did you get my message?

The message you left one second ago?

Yeah, I was just checking to see if you were on your way. I left L.A. hours ago.

Had to stop on my way up for work.

What kind of work would there be this time of year for an insurance agent?

I am not an agent. I'm an insurance investigator trying to be the head

investigator. Okay, yes, dear.

So what time are you going to be here?

In about half an hour. And don't forget, I'm leaving on the 25th. I'm going on

that ski trip with Holly, remember?

Yeah, I remember. I was just wondering if you could maybe stay a bit longer

for, um...

You won't believe it.

We can tell her about us.

Oh, it's just that she hasn't been back for Christmas in three years. Not since

her dad.

Right. Yeah.

Oh, there's Nick.

What's Nick doing here?

That's what I was going to tell you.

Oh, no, not you too.

Yeah, I better get over there.

Hey, Nick.

Looks like you have your first big crime story with all these robberies going on.

What happened, Roy? This morning I came in, glass was broken, and all the books

are gone. No sign of forced entry.

You know, for the life of me, I can't figure out how they got in.

The back window and doors are still locked.

I better take a look.

Yeah.

Told you.

Clean as a whistle.

It's like they beamed themselves in or something.

So, none of these stores have security cameras.

Before we hired you, county patrolled here. And they did suggest it, but we

just didn't see the point. Those county guys, they're used to big city crime.

But here, everybody knows everyone.

So, nothing ever happens. Until now.

I better grab my kit. I'll be right back.

Thanks, Nick.

Ma'am, what are you doing?

Whittling. A few more tries and I think I'll have a duck.

Are you breaking into this car, ma'am?

Uh, sorry about the duck line, officer.

I didn't realize you were... well, you.

Here is my proof of insurance and my license.

Ignore the picture. I'm not actually cross-eyed in real life.

Sorry for the confusion.

No problem.

I can call a locksmith.

It's okay.

I got it.

Wow, that was impressive.

Why'd you say you were in town?

I didn't. But don't worry, I'm not starting a car theft ring. This is my

mom's store.

I'm visiting her.

Oh, right. Ginny did mention she had a daughter named Lana.

Please tell me that's all she said.

Oh, well, just a little light bragging. Nothing too embarrassing.

Good to know.

Well, it's nice to meet you, Lana.

Happy holidays.

Freeze!

Ryan, you have already had two pieces today. You're gonna be bouncing off the

walls. I only had one and a half. I didn't like the coconut one. Oh, thanks

for the review.

Hey, lady, got any caramel dreams?

Lana, you got here. Oh, sweetie.

Oh, Lana, Grandma didn't tell me that you were coming. I wanted it to be a

surprise.

Because the real investigator doesn't give away the whereabouts. Exactly.

Also, I wasn't kidding about those caramel dreams.

Oh, did you think I'd forget to make your favorite candy?

I wrote that.

Maybe this Christmas won't be so bad with you and Santa here.

Santa? I think the real Santa's here in Riverleigh.

That's not where he usually hangs out. I know, right? He works at Mrs. Hugh's

Christmas store, and he knows everything.

He probably just knows how to use the internet.

That's what I thought, too. But this Santa's different.

Come with me to see him.

Oh, that man!

I'll be back in just a sec.

Mom, what's wrong? Well, this, this, Cliff Maybach.

has put a lock on my storage unit. Why would he do that? Well, because he

thinks it's his storage unit. And we've been going back and forth for months

over this. But this is the last straw locking me out.

Oh, maybe it's because of all the robberies in town. The robberies? Well,

a few stores have been broken into.

You weren't robbed, were you? No, not a huge market for stolen chocolate. But

Roy got broken into last night. Mr. Richards?

Yes. I should talk to him. No, no, no.

Why not?

Uh, because it's Christmas.

You should relax.

He wants me to take him to see Santa, but I want to hear more about this

later. Okay, okay, okay.

Actually, wait up. I'm going to come with you.

Is that Lana?

I can't believe it.

Hi, Maxine.

It's been so long.

You're coming to my Christmas Eve party, aren't you?

Well, you know, every time I see a gingerbread house, I think of you.

Your aunt loved to decorate gingerbread houses.

She'd come by in the summer just to get her fix.

Really? I thought our mama doesn't like... Ryan, where is that Santa you

were talking about? This way.

So have you told her about you and Roy?

No, she just got here.

I'm waiting for the right time.

He was just here.

Can we wait?

Sure. Hello, ladies.

Cooper. Cooper.

No

fingerprints

on the glass, and there aren't any tool marks.

I locked up when I left, and all my extra keys are accounted for.

Excuse me.

Good morning, Mr. Mayor.

Yep.

Okay.

Sorry about that, Roy.

Oh, no, that's okay.

Mayor gave you an airful?

Yeah, I've only been in Rivoli a few months, but he's already threatened to

go back to the county. Having our own police force in Rivoli is a good idea.

Those county cops never really had time for us. Yeah, well, if I can't solve

this little crime spree, they might just be back.

Look at this.

Wow.

That's pretty.

It's been in the Yule family for generations.

When I was a little girl, your grandfather told me it was a real

snowflake.

It never snows in Riverleigh.

But one year, a little girl wished for snow on Christmas.

Everyone thought she was crazy.

It doesn't get cold enough here to snow. Exactly.

But she was so convinced Santa would grant her wish, she started wearing snow

boots and mittens.

It started to rain on Christmas Eve.

And Santa heard her wish.

He asked the raindrops if they would fall to Earth as snowflakes.

And all the raindrops said no.

It was too warm.

But one raindrop argued that since the girl never lost her faith, she deserved

to see the snow.

And on Christmas morning, millions of snowflakes fell on Reverley.

It really snowed here?

Just that one time.

And Santa was so grateful to that first snowflake, he turned it into this

ornament so it could be remembered forever.

Of course, it's just a story my dad made up.

Lana.

Wait here, Ryan.

Cooper. Lana, I would like you to meet Cooper Milton. He teaches electrical

engineering at the college.

Nice to meet you.

Oh, you know, Lana likes to take a run in the mornings, but with all this

crime, I'm sure she could use an escort.

Cooper, please excuse my mother. She doesn't realize it's the wrong holiday

for Cupid.

Sorry.

Hold on, I gotta deal with this. You go ahead.

He's cute.

A running escort?

Okay, would it be the worst thing in the world for you to meet somebody nice?

I'm only here for a few days. Oh.

I'll be right back.

Lana, it's nice to have you back. Hi, Mr. Richards.

I heard you were robbed.

Yeah, Nick's taking care of it. Have you met Nick yet?

Yes. He thought I was a car thief.

What? Oh, just a misunderstanding, Roy.

What was taken?

Rare books. They broke my glass case.

Any theories?

This is a police matter. If it was premeditated, which we know it was, he

probably would have worn boots, heavy ones, because he'd be expecting the

glass. Are you an investigator?

Actually, I am.

Insurance. Really?

What sort of cases do you work on?

Well, mostly, um, auto.

Oh, so you investigate car wrecks? And fraud.

So no actual experience in breaking, entering, or robberies?

No. It's funny you working in auto insurance, Lana. Remember when you were

first learning how to drive and now, like, coal jumped out of nowhere? Yes,

that was a long time ago.

I'll leave you two professionals to talk.

Must be nice to come home to a place where everyone knows who you are.

Sometimes.

Other times, well, you have one fender bender during driver's ed in your light

pole, Lana, for the rest of your life.

Look, I'm an investigator.

Maybe I could help.

Thank you, Lana, but like I said, this is a police matter.

Hello? Lana!

How's the vacay?

Worse than work.

My nephew thinks the real Santa's in Riverley and my mom's already tried to

set me up.

Weren't you supposed to leave early to pack?

No. Larrabee needed someone to stay and hold down the fort.

I drew the short straw.

Staying here until Christmas Eve. Just you?

And Justin from accounting.

Hey, do you have the Robertson file? I can't seem to find it in the directory.

What do you want it for?

Stevenson totally missed a fake whiplash scam.

We need you.

I might actually be working on a case here.

In your hometown?

What, did somebody forget to return a library book?

Believe it or not, there's been a few robberies. Get out.

If you solve that, Larrabee will definitely give you the investigator

job. Yeah, the boss told me all I needed was experience with a real criminal

case. Well, there you go.

I'll send you the link to the file. And once I wrap things up here, I'll meet

you on the slopes. Can't wait.

Are you here for your Christmas wish?

Not exactly.

I wanted to talk to you about my nephew, Ryan.

Ryan Lawton?

Great kid. He thinks you're the real Santa.

Well, lots of children do.

Why is that a bad thing?

It's just that he's actually trying to prove that you're real.

Look, Ryan's a sensitive kid.

Ever since he lost his mom... Did you tell Ryan Santa's not real? I said

Santa's working and you're like a representative.

So if Santa exists, why can't he be in Riverley? Because he wouldn't be.

He'd be in the North Pole or on 34th Street making a miracle or something.

If Ryan is having a hard time, maybe it's a good thing there's something for

him to believe in.

Because when you lose your faith, the world can be as cold as the North Pole.

So you're not going to help me?

Well, not in the way you're asking, Lana.

Oh, Mr. Maybach, sorry about that.

So my mom's kind of upset about our storage unit.

That is my storage unit.

Nice boots.

They look sturdy.

And it was nice talking to you, too.

Don't worry about him.

You know how he can be.

Yeah.

Oh, Maxine, what's the deal with that Santa?

Isn't he great?

The kids love him. Has he worked here before?

Oh, no, no, no. I hired another Santa, but he got a department store job and

quit. Chris just kind of showed up. So his real name is Chris?

Chris Kringle.

You've got to be kidding me. It's on his driver's license.

Believe me, we check out anyone who's going to be around the kids all day.

He's worked across the country and has wonderful recommendations.

So he's not from Riverleigh then?

Nope. He got here about two weeks ago.

I don't know why he chose our town, but we're lucky he did.

Bye!

This deployment feels longer than the last one. Did you like the cookies?

They were great. Better than any of the cookies we get here. So have you heard

anything about your leave?

I sent my paperwork in months ago. My CO is just waiting for it to come back.

Well, it's awfully close to Christmas, Charlie.

Ryan thinks you might come home.

I told him I probably couldn't. Hey, Chuckles.

Uh-oh.

We really better look out for its light poles.

Oh, good thing you're thousands of miles away.

I gotta run. I'll talk to you guys soon.

Okay, take care, son.

That boy.

Just like your dad.

Um, Lana, there's something I need to tell you. Okay, but first I have a

question. What other stores were robbed besides Roy's?

Well, the sports memorabilia store had some baseball cards stolen, and I think

they took some tablets from Riverley Electronics.

When was the first robbery?

December 11th, I think.

The electronics store was first.

Right when Santa came to town.

I should go see Mr.

Marsh tomorrow morning.

What is your obsession with these robberies? If I can solve this case,

I'll prove to my boss I have the skills.

And I'll be a shoe-in for the head investigator's spot.

Speaking of work...

Morning, Lana.

You're in a hurry.

Oh, I... I was just... Coming from the electronics store?

Ned Marsh just called.

Ugh.

This town.

Find anything interesting?

Maybe.

You want to trade observations?

No, but I'm happy to hear anything you have to add to the investigation.

That's not really how I was hoping this would work.

Maybe you could just tell me what you've done so far.

That's a police matter. I'm sure you've checked for prints.

I did. Security footage?

No cameras.

Being an electronics store, you'd think they'd have them.

Don't get me started.

Mom says they got tablets.

Those have GPS tracking, right? I already checked. They've all been

deactivated. Have you checked pawn shops?

I've checked everything.

Have you thought about Santa?

He has an alibi.

He's in the North Pole, loading up his sleigh.

This story's been corroborated by Rudolph.

Not that Santa, the one that works at the Yule store.

He uses a fake name.

The robberies happened as soon as he got here.

The night Roy's store was robbed, Santa was visiting sick kids in the hospital.

I know how to investigate a case, Lana.

I have a list of suspects, and I'm checking it twice.

Cliff. Ugh.

Oh, Lana, good.

Are you busy?

I was just heading home to do some research. Can it wait? I want to go talk

to Roy.

Do you mind watching the store?

Sure thing.

You know, Mom, you should think about putting another lock on your door. And I

don't want you here at night.

I don't need another lock.

You said so yourself. The thief wasn't getting in through the front doors

anyway. And you should get a security camera.

Okay. Those cameras cost way too much money. The most expensive thing in there

are $10 pound truffles. Mom, I'll pay for the camera. Good gravy. No one's

going to rob my store. There's nothing valuable in there like the other places.

I will be right back after I talk to Roy.

Okay video recording sunglasses.

Perfect.

I'm so sorry you got robbed. How you doing?

You know, the thief took my most valuable books.

I don't know how he even knew they were there.

That glass case is a lot lower than the counter.

He had to have known what he was looking for.

Did you tell Nick that?

Oh, yeah.

You know, the worst thing is, he took that special edition Sherlock Holmes

that I wanted to give to Lana for Christmas.

Oh, she would have loved that.

I just want her to accept me.

You haven't told her yet, have you? No, no, I tried a few times now.

She was just so close to her dad.

Yeah, it must have been tough losing him at Christmas.

Yeah, it was terrible.

Christmas was their special time, and since he died, she's... Looks like she's

lost a part of herself.

Still, keeping secrets can't help.

No, I know, I know.

I just don't think she's ready.

Maybe I'll tell her at New Year's.

Oh, hello.

Lana. I was coming for some of your mom's amazing fudge.

Must be my lucky day running into you here.

Looks like I'm running into your whole family today.

You saw your nephew outside.

Oh, where?

He's going to see Santa. Really?

Cooper.

Oh, how lovely it is to see you again.

Lana was just saying that she's interested in electronics. I was?

Yeah, she said you wanted a camera.

Oh, right. Cooper, do you know anything about security cameras?

Well, yeah. I mean, not much past the basic electronic principles, but... Now

that you're back, I'll just... Just wondering, are you going to be seeing

family at Christmas?

Fortunately not.

They're all back east and I, uh... Couldn't quite make it home this year.

Oh, that's really too bad.

Well, fortunately, there are a lot... ...party, and of course,

Maxine's Christmas Eve party. And there's always a reading of the night

before Christmas.

Lana's dad used to read it every year.

What? We've got to get going. It was nice to see you again, Cooper.

But... Lana?

Lana...

Did I say something wrong?

Oh, no.

I did.

I took these pictures last year on vacation.

It was super snowy. You went to Greenland.

That is Cap'n Lubin Island.

The closest line to the North Pole. I knew you'd get that.

Well, the same way that I knew you didn't go there for vacation.

Now, do you have another test for me?

Or will you tell me what you want for Christmas?

You can ask me.

I still don't know.

If I'm real.

Yeah.

Only you can decide that.

Spying on Santa?

Any intel?

Nice. Do you always sneak up on people like that?

Pretty sure the beard is real, but no sightings to date of any elves.

Funny.

Shouldn't you be out solving your case?

Just took a quick lunch break to get a wreath, but I can't decide which one.

The pine.

Why the pine?

You love the smell of the pine, but you're worried it's too plain.

But when it comes to wreaths, it smells everything.

Pine it is, then.

I'll just leave you to keep an eye on Santa.

Thank you.

Aunt Lana.

She wants to ask you something.

Alright.

I think she wants to have a new job. And Grandma wants for her to have a

boyfriend too.

I hear you, Ryan.

He knew my picture was from the North Pole.

Talk to him.

Nice trick with the North Pole photos.

You've clearly done your research.

I respect that.

lana not everyone is a fraud well some people lie others steal in the end they

always get caught

you're

right about the pine right because i'm observant you could probably use a pair

of observant eyes on this case or you got a pair right here fine don't let me

help But while you're hanging up wreaths, I'll be solving this case.

Let me know if you do.

I'd love to have Christmas Eve off.

Nick Fallon.

I'll be right there.

What is it?

There's been another robbery.

Don't follow.

So when I said don't follow me, you heard. A person can stand here.

Uh-huh.

And what exactly did you pick up? Just standing here, I mean. Well, I did

happen to hear that Mr. Sask only noticed now because he had a dentist

appointment this morning. So the robbery could have taken place any time between

when he closed up last night and now.

However, I checked with Carrie at the diner across the street, and she didn't

see anything, so my bet is last night. You question witnesses?

No. I was getting one of Carrie's famous blueberry muffins, and she volunteered

the information.

Right. Lana. I got you one, too.

So what did they get?

Oh, you didn't hear that, too?

A few watches?

Yeah, but some no clear way in or out.

There's a pattern. The thief strikes at night, takes small items that are easily

carried. They never touch the cash registers.

All fairly small items.

Easy to be carried in a bag.

Or a sack.

Oh, like Santa?

I'm still not ruling him out. I know it's another thing.

All the expensive watches were on the higher shelves, and they only stole ones

from the lower shelves.

So you probably think it was one of Santa's elves?

Not funny.

But do you know who has been acting suspicious?

Cliff Maybeck. Why? He put a lock on a storage container that's actually my

mom's. I can talk to him.

No. I'll take it from here. But I... I'm serious, Lana.

Let me handle this.

Thank you, Ginny. Those are the best chocolates I've had in all my years.

Wow. Coming from Santa, that's quite a compliment.

Now, might I ask, what is that?

Oh, that is a rare antique coffee press that I picked up at a cute little shop

some time ago. Forgot I even had it.

I'm guessing maybe Lana dug it up?

Oh, here she is now. Lana, look who's here.

Well...

We meet again.

We sure do.

Being new around here, how are you actually filling your off hours?

Well, you know, well, this and that.

Say last night.

Lana, what are you doing?

I'm just asking a question.

Like I would ask Mr. Richards.

Mr. Richards, what did you do last night?

I was at home.

Um, Lana, stop.

What do you think you're doing?

Well, I think she's questioning us. If I'm not mistaken, there must have been

another robbery last night. Was there? The watch store.

Okay, so is Roy a suspect now? No, I just... Questioning my friends now,

so... Leave it to Nick.

Excuse me.

So, for the record, I was wrapping presents with vaccine till about ten,

and then I went to sleep.

Can't you ask again?

My CO says they didn't approve it. I can't ask again.

I'm sorry, Rye.

But nobody else here has to work on Christmas.

I know.

Look, we'll have Christmas in March, okay, when I get back.

It'll be a Merry St. Patrick's Day.

I guess.

I gotta go.

Talk soon.

Bye, Dad.

Bye, buddy.

Your dad would be here if he could.

I know.

And I know I'm not as much fun as he is, but we can hang out.

You can help me prove Santa's real.

Why is that so important to you?

Just is.

Brian, an investigator looks for truth.

And no matter how much you want something to be true, sometimes the

facts don't cooperate.

Did you find out something bad about Santa?

No.

What are you doing? Oh.

These held some investigator sunglasses that I've placed in a strategic

location. Really?

How do they work?

Well, they have a camera and a memory, so I'll be able to see what they see.

And I'll also be able to see what they recorded.

That's cool. It sure is.

If I could just figure out how to download this app.

Here.

Pretty impressive, kid.

You have the makings of a great investigator.

Really? You bet.

But for now, I think you better head up to bed.

Good night, Aunt Mama.

Good night.

Morning.

Oh, good morning, sleepyhead.

Here you go, and there are pancakes on the table. Thanks.

Mom, about yesterday... Yeah.

Look, I know you really want to solve the case, but questioning my friends...

You're right.

Sorry.

Okay, no harm done.

Where's Ryan?

At Maxine's. Again?

Mm-hmm.

Yes, and, uh... What? Oh, okay, well, there was another robbery last night.

Where? At Miss Dancy's. That's right near you.

You know, she sells expensive jewelry.

No one's breaking in for chocolate, okay?

I gotta go.

See you later.

See you.

Hello? What's shaking bacon?

It's fine. You're in a good mood. Give me a second.

Who are you talking to?

Justin. Get this.

His mom went to my elementary school.

Crazy, huh? Sounds like being in the office isn't so boring anymore.

Yeah. It's weird. Look, I wouldn't think that an accountant would be my type, but

he plays an abandoned knife.

What's up with you?

Not so much. I think my mom's friend is the thief.

Oh. Well, what are you going to do? Try to get the one cop here to follow up?

Or Riverly Cop?

Are you sure you can tear him away from the donut shop?

He's not like that. He's good.

We're actually working together.

Working together during the holidays can get romantic.

Not for me. I'm just trying to crack this case so I can meet you at the

cabin. Okay, well, good luck. Can't wait to hear the deets.

Santa was in his apartment last night. He lives across the hall from me and I

saw him go in.

I would have heard his door open if you left.

I'm a light sleeper.

Thanks, Maxine.

Good luck, Nick.

I hope you catch whoever's doing this.

Roy Richards is the thief.

Lana, and good morning to you too. Did you hear what I said?

What makes you think it's Roy, Lana? I set up some video surveillance in my

mom's store.

This was taken last night around 10 p.m.

He comes in the front door. I don't know how, but... It doesn't match the M.O.

And your mother's store wasn't robbed.

But the jewelry store was, and that's nearby.

You should bring him in for questioning.

Lana, I think you need to talk to your mom about this.

I don't think he's stealing.

I hear one more speech about how the good people of Riverleigh don't steal.

That's not what I'm talking about. Look, Lana, you need to let me run this

investigation. By my rules.

Following the rules isn't helping.

Yes, it is. I just ruled out Santa.

Maxine confirmed he had an alibi.

You checked?

You made a good case. I do listen.

Then shouldn't you find out why Roy broke into my mom's store?

I don't think he broke in. You wanted evidence and I got it for you.

If you won't follow up, I will.

Okay, here we go.

Salut. Salut.

Mmm.

This thing makes pretty good coffee. Right?

Okay, now I've got to find a place to keep it.

Mm-hmm.

Okay, here we go.

Hi, Lana.

How are you, Roy?

Doing anything fun last night?

Well, actually, one of my favorite Christmas movies was on last night, and

I watched it.

Mmm.

Try it now with sugar. It's so much better.

No. Come on. Mmm. Come. Okay.

Mmm-mm.

Hmm? You're sweet.

When were you gonna tell me, Mom?

Tell you what, honey?

That you two are dating.

Who told you?

Maxine? No, you did.

Just now.

The only time I've ever seen you drink from another person's cup was with Dad.

Okay. Okay.

Roy and I have been dating for six months, and I was going to tell you when

the time was right. I wanted to tell you as soon as you got here. I hate keeping

secrets. Then why did you break in here last night?

Roy? Jenny, I'll explain. I have proof right here. I have a perfectly good

explanation that I'll tell both of you in a couple of days. I think you should

tell us right now.

I was going to ask your mom to marry me.

Roy.

And I just ruined the surprise.

Does Charlie know?

Yeah.

So you only kept this from me?

Okay.

I know how much you miss your dad, especially this time of year.

And I thought if I told you that you would be so upset, you wouldn't come

home. Well, maybe that would have been for the best.

I'm sorry I ruined your proposal, Roy.

Lana, wait.

Oh, boy.

I understand, Mr. Mayor.

Yes. Yes, I did that.

Yes.

Great.

Well, that didn't sound good. Oh, I didn't see you there, Santa.

Mayor unhappy?

Apparently we're going into an election year.

Nervous shop owners aren't happy voters.

I see.

He doesn't have the Christmas spirit.

No. And I'm afraid if I can't catch this thief soon, it might be my last

Christmas in Riverleigh.

I have faith in you, Nick.

You'll think of something.

Let me guess.

You're on a stakeout? Aren't you?

It's not as exciting as it looks on TV.

I'm prepared.

I can see you're going to keep trying to help me, whether I want you to or not.

Your car or mine?

Coffee? Got an extra cup?

Sure.

It's only 11. You can't possibly be tired. I've been exhausted ever since

these robberies started.

Hungry? What you got?

Carrots, apple slices, and hummus. I've got so much to teach you.

Chips, cookies, gummy bears?

That's how you do a stakeout.

I bow to your greater wisdom.

Thanks for letting me stake out with you.

Did I have a choice?

Not really.

Anyway, Santa's my pick.

New in town, fake identity, heavy boots.

Wow, I thought I met cynical people in Homicide.

I'm just a realist. With a vendetta against Santa.

Okay, what about Cliff Maybach?

He has an alibi for last night.

And he said it's your mom who's the one causing problems with the storage unit.

He would.

So Roy's not on the list that's gonna make for a slightly less awkward

Christmas dinner, so you knew they were a couple Why didn't you tell me it

wasn't my place, and I knew you'd sleuth it out on your own anyway I guess nobody

in this town can keep a secret Well somebody can

As soon as I found out he was an extreme couponer, I knew he was stealing the

newspapers. And that was your first case? Yep, 12 years old. My mom was

mortified I reported our neighbor. Mr. Phillips never forgave me.

My dad was proud, though.

He was a police officer.

He worked for County.

Really? Yeah.

This coffee is... Good, huh?

I got it from Roast on the Road.

It's their 12 Days of Chris Mocha.

Gotta love this town's Christmas spirit.

You really do seem to fit right in.

My parents always had to work on Christmas, so we never really did much.

I always dreamt of living in a town that did Christmas like this.

It's one of the reasons I moved here.

You sound like my dad.

His favorite thing about Christmas is that people were extra nice to each

other.

Especially in Riverleigh.

Yeah, it's certainly not the same in the city.

No. But sometimes it's nice to walk down the street without people knowing your

past.

To not be poor Lana who lost her dad on Christmas.

That's why as soon as we solve this case, I'm getting out of here.

Before my mom can hold a bachelorette auction for me.

She's happy.

She just wants you to be happy too.

Let's just say it's a good thing Santa's not single.

Ryan, didn't I send you to bed two hours ago?

I couldn't sleep, so I wanted to make a list of things I could do with Dad when

he gets here.

Ryan, you know your dad did everything he could. It's just not happening this

year. Maybe this will be a Christmas miracle, like the time when it snowed

for the little girl.

What? In the story that Alana told me.

Listen,

we'll call your dad Christmas Day, and we'll open our presents together, and

it'll be just like he's here with you, okay?

Now go to bed.

Good night.

Good night.

Lana.

What happened? Did I fall asleep?

For an hour or so.

All you missed was Mrs. Hurwitz walking her dog.

You should probably get home, get some sleep.

No. I'm starting fresh today.

Now that we're working together, I'm going to come up with another way to

catch this creep.

I'm going to change these clothes.

You, detective, are the one who needs sleep.

I don't know what happened. I put new batteries in and it worked fine last

night.

I guess it would be a little wire shorted out. I'll take you with me to my

lab tomorrow. See if it works.

Okay.

Maybe Lana could help. Thanks for volunteering me, but I'm actually really

busy. Oh, with the case.

How's that all going? I staked out Main Street last night, but nothing happened.

Oh, thank goodness. Well, maybe our crime spree is finally over.

Lana, I was actually wondering if you wanted to go to the caroling festival

with me tomorrow night.

Figured it's my first Christmas in Riverleigh. I thought it could be fun,

especially with the right company.

I could take a short break.

Wonderful.

All right.

See you there. Thank you so much, Cooper.

I really appreciate it.

Cheers.

I knew he'd be a good match for you. Mom, this is nothing serious.

Not everyone has to have a date for the holidays. Sometimes it's better to be

alone than settle for the first guy that shows any interest.

What's that supposed to mean?

Nothing.

So, Ryan, have you decided what you want for Christmas?

I think so, just... Just?

I don't know.

You still don't know if I'm real.

Some of the kids at school say there's no Santa. They make fun of me sometimes.

Just so you know, they're not on the nice list.

They make fun of this film because it's old.

But my dad gave it to me before he left.

This is great. This is a classic.

Thanks.

Is it just that?

Just the kids at school?

There are a lot of people that say they believe in Christmas miracles and all

that. Really?

They don't.

Ryan, if you ever feel like you're losing hope and you need a little

Christmas miracle, just dial S for Santa.

Ryan, Grandma needs you.

Okay, Alana. I'll be back, Santa.

It's one thing to fill his head with nonsense about the North Pole, but dial

S for Santa?

Is it wrong for him to have faith?

Because if he doesn't have faith that things will get better, it's easy to

give up.

And I know that you don't want that for Ryan.

Did you get my text about my mom and Roy?

Uh-huh. So Roy is not our guy.

But I think I have a good suspect.

Not your mom's boyfriend?

No. But I have to convince Nick that I'm not crazy.

Who's Nick? He's the policeman I went on a stakeout with.

Wait, you went on a stakeout with him?

Yes. Is he single? I think so.

Is he cute?

I guess so. I don't think of him that way. I'm not buying that.

You like him, don't you? It wouldn't work out.

That's not a no. I don't need my heart broken to have another awful holiday

memory. You haven't dated anyone seriously since I've known you.

You always assume it won't work out. Because it usually won't. Oh, I gotta

go. Justin and I are grabbing dinner.

As co-workers.

Nothing weird. Right.

Nothing weird there.

Ugh.

The lock is still on out there. You believe that, man?

How's it coming?

Almost got it. Aren't you glad you're marrying someone handy?

You know, Roy, I don't think that we should get engaged right now.

I don't see the point in waiting.

It's just that Lana's still not over losing your dad, and us getting engaged

over the holidays, I think it's like rubbing salt into that wound.

I'm not sure waiting will fix anything.

I just, I want Lana's blessing.

What if it never comes?

I guess you wouldn't be a good investigator if you couldn't track me

down. I found something.

Please tell me it's an extra set of hands.

What are you doing exactly?

Miss Donna needs help with her lights.

So you're using your lunch hour to help her?

Beats banging my head against the wall with this case.

Oh, speaking of... Look.

This proves that Santa was prowling Main Street the night the jewelry store was

robbed. I see an arm and a cuff.

This could be anyone in a winter jacket. That's Santa's suit.

I know he's been lying about the robberies just like he's been lying to

Ryan about being the real Santa. He has an alibi.

If you think Santa's alibi is solid, let's check out Cliff Maybeck again.

I think we should search that storage unit, find out what he's hiding in

there. He claims he didn't lock it. What? That's ridiculous. I can show you

the lock. That proves he's hiding something. We need to get in there. We

need evidence to get a warrant.

Maybe I could trick him into opening it. We need to play by the rules, otherwise

we're just asking for trouble.

Look, Lana, I don't want you confronting anyone. This could get dangerous.

Mr. Maybach?

I've known him my whole life. He might be surly, but... Lana, I don't want

anything to happen to you.

I'll be careful.

I'll see you later.

Um, where are you going dressed like a cat burglar?

I was just going for a quick run.

I've been eating your chocolates all day.

Lana, wait.

You've been avoiding me since you found out I was dating Roy. I'm not avoiding

you. I'm busy.

Roy is a great guy, okay, if you just get to know him. I've known him all my

life. He was Dad's friend.

Look, Mom, I can't tell you what to do.

If you want to marry him, go ahead. I don't know if I'll ever be okay with it.

You're not the only one who lost somebody.

I was married to your father for 30 years, and I was devastated when he

died.

But you can't live your life dwelling on the bad things.

It stops you from letting anything good happen. I'm making something good

happen. I'm going to solve a crime and get the job that I want.

I gotta go.

Good evening, Nick.

Santa, what are you doing out here?

Taking a walk. Too many Christmas cookies.

I always have too many this time of year.

Are you looking for our robber?

Yes. I'd offer to help, but I can't compete with Lana.

I heard you two were out on a stakeout the other night.

Can't keep a secret in this town.

Well, not from Santa.

She is a tough cookie, but I like you two together.

It just feels right.

She's just helping out with the case.

Like I said, Nick, you can't keep a secret from Santa.

I thought you were patrolling.

I heard a noise back here.

I was just making sure my mom locked the back door.

Well, uh, you probably shouldn't be back here alone.

Not with all these robberies going on.

You're right.

I was actually about to start another stakeout.

Seeing as you're checking on things anyway, could use that extra pair of

eyes again.

Sure. I'm already dressed for it.

So, we'll have... Christmas in March. When I get home, we'll have the tree.

We'll have the whole thing.

But maybe something will happen, Dad.

Buddy, I'm sorry.

I tried. I don't think there's anything anyone can do.

There might be one person.

What was that?

Nothing.

Okay, bring on the junk.

Now you're talking.

Nice choice.

Let's catch this crook.

I gotta say, you're very determined.

Not a lot of cops would be this enthusiastic about a stakeout.

I love it.

You know, figuring out the mystery.

Okay, so your dad was a cop. You love to investigate.

Why didn't you join the force?

I wanted to.

I thought about working with my dad, but after he died, I just... kind of stopped

thinking about it.

My mom thinks I'm dwelling on the past.

I am moving forward.

I'm trying to get a promotion at work. As an insurance investigator?

What's wrong with that?

No, nothing, if that's what you want to do.

We could always use you here, as a private investigator.

In Riverleigh?

Yeah, I mean, if the mayor doesn't disband my department, I could use your

help.

I get a lot of people that need help with things that aren't really a police

matter, that just need someone who's smart and observant to figure it out.

Thanks, Nick.

For what?

You're the first person here to actually take me seriously as an investigator.

Well... Hey.

Carrie from the diner wants to know if you guys want some pie for your

stakeout.

Does everyone know we're on a stakeout?

It's Riverleigh.

Thanks, Cooper.

Well, if everyone knows we're here... I guess this stakeout won't really work.

I should probably, um... I can drive you.

It's not that far.

Lana, uh... Oh, I better get this.

See you later.

See ya.

Holly, it's 10. Please don't tell me you're still at work. Justin and I are

watching movies.

He just ran out to get some popcorn.

Why would you stay late if you have nothing to do?

I'm kind of having fun.

I think I'll be able to drive down and meet you on Christmas night.

I'm pretty sure I know who's been committing these crimes.

Oh, who's the Bah Humbug burglar?

I'll know soon enough. You solved that case.

The investigator job is yours.

I know. The ski trip's in the way. We can always push it off.

No.

I don't want to get stuck in Riverley, do I?

I'll see you on the 25th. See you then, girl.

Morning, Nick.

Don't take this the wrong way, but you look terrible.

I was up all night patrolling. Anything?

Nothing.

Maxine's snowflake is missing.

It can't be. I was patrolling the whole time. I would have seen something. It

had to be an inside job.

Someone who had access to Maxine's. I know what you're thinking. Then you know

where I'm going.

Good morning, Nick.

Lana.

Nice to see you two together. You're here early.

Lana, let me handle this.

Well, I'm sure you want to talk about the crystal snowflake. Mind answering a

few questions?

Oh, of course.

Did you say anything out of the ordinary?

Well, what is ordinary for one person may not be ordinary for another.

What I mean is, did you... Did you steal from Maxine and put it in this bag?

That is my bag.

Mind if I check it? Please go right ahead.

Now. I can understand why I would be a suspect.

You have a receipt for all these toys?

Santa, I can't believe it.

I forgot to give you one.

What? Every year I donate toys and gifts to needy families.

Santa's going to deliver them.

Oh. Yes, but now that I think of it, I think they should be wrapped first. More

festive, don't you think?

Oh, yes, but do we have time?

Well, I don't have time to do it and work.

But if someone were to volunteer to wrap them for us... It's the least we could

do.

I

like

seeing you like this.

Like what?

Enjoying Christmas.

It's just a little something put under the tree.

It's nothing, really.

I didn't get you anything.

Oh, no, you don't have to. It's just for... Help me with the case.

Although I don't think I've been much help.

You're going to the caroling festival tonight?

I actually promised Cooper I'd go with him.

Are you going?

I might stop by, see if anyone's acting suspicious.

You are dead on your feet.

You should go home and sleep. I'll finish this You okay on your own?

I'll be fine

Hello, Ryan.

Well, you look serious.

I've decided to tell you my wish.

I want my father to come home for Christmas.

Well, that's a tricky one, even for me.

I needed to know that you were real, because only the real Santa could do it.

Some miracles are harder than others.

You fit millions of presents into one tiny sleigh, and it flies.

So you can bring one guy to Rivoli.

I believe in you.

There you are. Been trying to reach you.

Been busy.

I had to make some last-minute travel arrangements.

I'm leaving in the morning to spend Christmas in Ohio with my grandkids.

Hey, um... I thought we were spending Christmas together.

Well, with Lana here, I just seem to be causing problems between you two.

I really think it's best for everyone.

I'll be back in the new year.

Merry Christmas, Jenny.

Yeah.

Merry Christmas.

I'm glad you decided to join me.

It's a Riverleigh tradition.

Seems really fun.

Yeah. It's too bad Roy couldn't make it. What do you mean?

I saw him earlier today. Said he's leaving town for Christmas.

Guess something came up.

I'm gonna grab a hot apple cider. You want anything?

No, thanks.

Okay.

I heard Roy is leaving town. Are you okay?

Well, I was looking forward to spending Christmas with a couple.

Mom, I like Roy.

But I just don't understand.

How can you want to spend Christmas with someone else?

I miss him every single day.

But it has been three years.

And he wouldn't want to be the reason why we don't get on with our lives.

And he would never want you to skip celebrating Christmas. I'm not skipping

Christmas. I'm here, aren't I?

Reluctantly.

And I am moving forward with my life.

Once I solve this case, I am getting that new job.

Well, your happiness shouldn't depend on whether you get a new job.

And you don't even have any suspects.

Oh, yes, I do.

I found this note in Santa's bag.

It's a list of all the stolen items. Santa is the thief, and I'm going to

prove it. No!

Nice.

Really nice.

Brian!

Were you going to show me that list? Nick, of course.

Look, you just were so convinced it wasn't Santa. I know about the list.

He told me about it.

He was keeping track of everything that was stolen so he could replace them. I

just don't trust him.

I guess you don't trust me either.

You don't believe that I can do my job or that your mother knows what's best

for her.

You don't even trust yourself.

You sound like my mother.

Well, maybe if everyone's telling you the same thing, you should pay

attention.

Ryan, are you okay?

No. My Aunt Lana says you're a thief.

Your Aunt Lana is having a hard time this Christmas.

Sometimes when bad things happen to you, it's easy to lose faith.

Is my dad coming home?

Ryan, I told you this... If there was a real Santa, he would make it happen.

So you've gone from not believing I'm the real Santa to Santa doesn't exist at

all? Santa's for babies.

Ryan.

Oh. What?

Come on, honey. Come on.

See? This is what happens when you pretend this whole Christmas magic thing

is real.

You get a heartbroken eight-year-old.

He had faith in you, and you let him down.

Lana, faith is bigger than getting your Christmas wish or not.

Ryan wants his father here because he's scared.

His dad has a dangerous job.

Ryan wants to know that everything is going to be okay.

There's no way to know that.

That's where faith comes in.

Sure, the world is filled with tragedies, but it's also filled with

miracles.

Sometimes little girls get your snowflakes.

Did Ryan tell you that story?

The one your father made up?

It's a beautiful story.

He knew that Christmas isn't about presents or ornaments It's believing

that anything is possible Lana when

you close your heart to love it can never find you What

would your father want for you

Hmm. What are you doing with these?

I thought I could at least solve one mystery.

That storage unit up back.

I think there are blueprints in here that'll show what belongs to us.

Oh. Oh.

I remember when you used to wear your dad's uniform when he wasn't home.

I haven't seen these in ages.

So much Christmas in here.

I remember Dad's ritual.

He'd play classical music and make waffles.

He loved Christmas so much.

He didn't always, you know.

What? When we first got married, he thought Christmas was too commercial.

But once you kids were born, I think he just started to see it through your

eyes.

He was like a kid again.

I miss him.

I'm sorry I've been giving you such a hard time about Roy.

Do you love him?

Yeah, I do.

He's really good to me.

I think Dad would approve.

You picked one great guy. I should trust you to pick another.

That's the best present you could ever give me.

Ah!

The plants! Your dad kept the plants for all the stores on Main Street.

Okay, now where's that storage unit? Do you see it?

No, but look at this.

There are air ducts connecting all the stores on Main Street.

All the stores that were robbed are connected.

You think the thief is getting in through air ducts?

Nobody could fit in those, not even Ryan.

Okay, I know you might not want to talk to me, but I think I know who did it, or

at least where to find them. Lana. Nick, please.

I do believe in you.

I think you're a good cop, and I want you to keep your job.

It's too late for that.

The marriage is called.

As of the 31st of December, I'm done.

We're not going to let that happen.

Now look at this.

This is how the thief's been getting into the stores without breaking in. All

the stores that were hit are connected.

It has to be someone who has access to at least one of the stores.

Cliff Maybach?

He said his alibi is checked out.

Can you really see it being another one of your neighbors?

What about this store?

That one's closed.

Could someone have access?

Let me make a call.

Everything okay?

No, no, you go on with Ryan. I'll take care of it.

I'll refresh you.

Thank you.

My mom's store was robbed.

My camera is facing the door, so I've got nothing.

They unplugged the clock when they sold the espresso machine.

During the caroling. Let's check the vent.

You're right about the vent.

Is that the machine behind?

Odd.

What's this doing in an air duct?

Is this an arm of the machine?

Fallon.

Yeah.

Yeah, got it. Thank you.

Seems that the college is renting that shop for storage.

The college?

Who do we know that's connected to the college?

Cooper. But Cooper was with me last night.

Yeah, I noticed.

Cooper is a professor of electrical engineering.

What if he built some kind of robot that went through the ducts, opened the vent,

and took something small?

That's why everything stolen was on the lower shelf.

He could control it remotely and then shut the vent behind him.

The machine would have been too heavy.

We have to check out that shop.

It's Christmas Eve. We'll never get a warrant.

And we're not breaking in. But the only way to save your job is if we solve this

case. Just let me handle this.

And don't do anything until I have that warrant.

I solved the case. It's Cooper.

One of the sides of your love triangle?

There is no love triangle.

Oh, so it's just Nick. I don't even know him that well.

But being around him is the first time I've been really happy since my dad

died. Sometimes you have to take a chance.

Things do work out.

Yeah, maybe they do.

I'll tell you more when I see you.

Okay, promise you won't hate me.

I'd never hate you.

Justin asked me to spend Christmas with his family.

And to be his date for New Year's Eve. Sounds like you can't go skiing.

Seriously, are you mad? No way.

Okay, I'm excited about you and Nick too.

Let me call you back later.

Okay, bye.

Officer Fallon, leave a message.

I think Cooper's leaving.

I'll stall him. Call me back as soon as you get this.

out on you last night. Oh, no worries. I saw you had some family travel going on,

so. So, where are you headed?

Going to my parents for Christmas.

Got a long drive ahead of me. Should get there just before Christmas Eve dinner.

I thought your parents were on the East Coast.

Oh, yeah.

Divorced parents.

Dad's out East. My mom's back West.

You got a lot of stuff.

Oh, yeah. I'm gonna go for the whole holiday, so.

Let me help.

Oh, that's okay.

Oh, I'm so sorry.

Oh, that's just some stuff for my folks.

All right.

Well, nice to meet you, Lana.

Wish you luck on your case.

I'll need a Christmas miracle.

Hello?

Mayor called in some favors. Got the warrant for the store. I'm there now.

The store's clear.

Lana, you didn't. No, he's already packed up, but I think he's keeping

everything in... Hello?

Hello?

You caught me.

Your skills need some work.

You were very obvious when you saw my lock.

I designed it myself.

Still easy to pick, though.

Look, Cooper, I'm sure if you give everything back, they'll go easy on you.

I don't see that happening.

But I thought we had a connection.

No. No, I just needed an alibi last night.

So all that texting you were doing... You were operating the robot.

Deductive reasoning is impressive.

But why would you steal?

I got let go from the college. I figured, like, this town owed me a

Christmas bonus.

You used the store to get into the vents.

Not bad, huh?

Couldn't just leave it all laying around out here. So you used this unit.

Hiding in plain sight.

Your mom and Maybach were always fighting over this.

Figured if I locked some stuff up in here for a few days, they'd blame each

other for it. By the time they figured it out, I'd be long gone.

I can't let you leave.

Hand it over.

All right.

Cooper! Let me out!

Don't worry, Lana. I'm sure somebody will come by and find you in no time.

Oh, one more thing.

Merry Christmas.

Hey, Roy, could you call me when you get this, please?

Okay.

Ryan, we've got about two minutes before we have to leave for Maxine's party.

Where's your... I missed your call.

You came back.

I got a message from Lana when I was at the airport.

Asked me to come back.

I'm glad you did but we what about your flight and your grandkids and I changed

it It's a New Year's and I got an extra ticket for you Figured you might want to

meet your new family. Mm-hmm be wonderful I Missed you

It was Lana That's a good question

There's got to be a way out of here.

That's right. I need a statewide APP on Cooper Milton.

Okay,

Santa.

I believe I really need a Christmas miracle

Hi.

Lucene! Hi!

Lana here?

I haven't seen her.

Nick!

You okay?

Cooper left town.

I have his license plate memorized.

I don't need it.

Cooper's GPS malfunctioned. Led him right to a state trooper.

But he's an electronics expert.

Guess we ought a little Christmas help.

By the way, how did you find me?

I got a call.

A man said you were trapped in a storage unit.

Was it Cooper?

No. It actually sounded like Santa.

Uh, Lana!

We were worried about you! Oh, honey!

Where were you?

Solving the case. With Nick's help, of course.

You'll be happy to know that Santa's innocent.

We already heard it was Cooper.

News travels fast and rivally.

Glad you're back, Roy.

Lana!

Where's Santa?

Oh, he's gone.

Guess he had to make it up to the North Pole by Christmas Eve.

That was the mayor.

Looks like I get to keep my job.

Oh, Nick, I'm so happy for you.

Um, can I talk to you for a minute?

Of course.

Now that I'm saying for Christmas, you'll have to join us for Christmas

dinner.

I'd like that.

So what did you want to talk to me about?

I think we make a great team.

So do I.

I mean, I think we'd make a great team if you stayed.

Nick, I have a job.

Solving this case gets me that promotion, remember?

Well, I'm not exactly talking about a job, although I do think you'd make a

great PI.

I'm talking about...

I like you, Lana.

I like you too, Nick, but... Lana?

We were just about to read Twas the Night Before Christmas.

Since it was your father's tradition, would you mind reading it?

I don't need this.

I have it memorized.

Merry Christmas!

I wanted to get it before Ryan opens his presents.

Oh, I told Roy I didn't need his help this early, but, uh...

Hi,

Mom! You made it! I did!

Merry Christmas, Charlie!

Hi, Lana!

Ryan, come down and see what Santa brought you!

Hi, buddy.

I thought you couldn't make it.

Funny thing.

Turns out my paperwork for leave got approved after all. My CO didn't get a

notification until yesterday.

So I got on the first transport out.

I never really stopped believing.

You know what, Ryan?

Deep down, neither did I.

Guess who this is for.

That was the best Christmas dinner I've ever had.

Can I open this now?

Sure.

Oh, Nick.

It's beautiful.

I love it.

How did you know?

It was Santa's idea.

He said it would be the perfect gift.

He was right.

So, uh, when are you leaving?

I'm not.

I like the idea of being a PI.

And I think you're right.

We would make a great team.

I mean, I'll visit the city now and again.

Holly would be lost without me.

Of course.

But when you come back to the people who love you, you're really home.

I hope you can handle the competition.

You know I can.

Are you sure, Mr. Detective?

You didn't notice that we're standing under mistletoe?

I got the measure of you.

Honey, you know your love is too good to miss.

Well, this year I have only one wish. So hear me say. Get on your sleigh.

Something's ain't over mine. If you go borrow his ride. Get on your sleigh.

Boy, your lips are delicious.

Give me kisses for Christmas.

The fire's burning and I've filled up your glass Won't you hurry, buddy? I'm

in the mood for romance Come take me under the mistletoe And

let me know that this feeling will last Honey, you know your love

is too good to miss Well, this year I have only one wish So hear me say

If you go borrow his bike