Original subtitles

- Nice day, huh? - It is.

I blew it. I blew it.

- No. - I did, I did. I blew it.

No, don't be so hard on yourself.

This is a good first practice date.

I've had others bail

in the middle of their assessments.

But you hung in there,

even when it was really uncomfortable.

All right.

You're the dating expert, just

lay it on me.

You did better than you think. It's just a few quick notes.

Ask open-ended questions,

ones that require more than a one-word answer.

Then react. A date is not an interview.

- It's not. - It was nice to meet you, Mark.

Yeah.

This is where you stand.

- Yeah. Yeah, right. - Yeah.

Oh. Oh, okay. You're gonna do great.

- Yeah. - Okay.

Gingerbread latte, extra whipped.

Thank you! But aren't I supposed to be

the one getting you coffee?

Bosses can do nice things too.

How were today's coffee consults?

Good. Solid, incoming-stage ones.

Nice!

So

Are you excited to bring Evan back

to Colorado for Christmas?

Going home together for the first time?

To meet your mom? That's a big deal!

Mm-hmm.

Is something wrong?

No! Not at all.

Evan is perfect.

Hmm.

'Cause you're avoiding eye contact,

your shoulders are tense, and you've adjusted

those flowers three times.

I watched your video on body language online.

Okay... the only person who knows about this

is my best friend Dione, so this has to stay between us.

You pay me.

I have a strong incentive to keep my mouth shut.

Alright.

I may or may not be cursed.

- Okay. - When I was 18,

my boyfriend dumped me on Christmas.

Who dumps somebody on Christmas?

Matty Hall, my high school sweetheart.

That definitely sucks,

but I don't know if I believe in curses.

Well, ever since then, I've always been dumped

around the holidays.

I had a college boyfriend ghost me

at a keg and karaoke party.

I had to sing We Wish You a Merry Christmas by myself!

I'm a surprisingly skilled baritone.

Then, there was the one who dumped me

on the top of the ski hill.

Seriously?

That sounds awful.

It's not ideal.

And you know about the treadmill incident from last year.

I think we're better off as friends.

Not when we're this close to the finish line!

Okay, okay, I can definitely

see how this sounds like a curse.

Right? I just need this trip to go well

so I can break this damn thing.

Okay.

I booked our ride share for 6 AM.

Is there anything I can help you with?

I feel like I'm forgetting something.

Well, check your list.

Oh, God.

Are you okay?

Yeah! Yeah! Totally fine.

Are you sure?

You have this...

"I'm a flight attendant and we're about to go into some heavy turbulence," thing going on.

I just hate taking off of work.

You know, I'm taking off the entire week.

You know? It's supposed to be a relaxing time...

Flip the switch, right?

I don't know if I have that setting.

Well, we can start by letting Heather handle things.

That could work.

You're right.

You're right.

See? Not caring!

I'm not caring so hard right now.

There. That's enough.

Just texting Dione to let her know

we're waiting on a taxi.

I can't wait for you guys to meet. She's the best.

Yeah, I'm looking forward

to meeting her in person finally.

Yeah. Oh! There's a taxi!

Hey!

- Oh, I... - Oh, uh...

Well, I'll be. Chelsey Banks.

Matty.

It's been a while, how you been?

I, uh... you take it.

Oh. Oh, no, come on. You were here first.

- I insist, please. - Oh, Evan!

This is my boyfriend, Evan, we're very serious.

Evan, this is Matthew Hall, a guy I went to high school with.

Matthew, huh?

It is your name, isn't it?

Just never heard you use the version on my passport.

Matthew, hi, nice to meet ya.

Likewise, Matthew!

Evan.

So, Pine Falls still home, or...?

Atlanta, actually!

Yeah, just here for the holidays.

Atlanta? That's far.

Uh, not really, it's like a two-hour flight?

Yeah, it isn't, it's not Europe.

- Am I right? - Yeah.

Ah, a fellow East-Coaster. Any friend of Chelsey's is a friend of mine.

I wouldn't say friend, exactly.

More of an acquaintance, an old acquaintance.

Not that he's old, we're the same age,

it's just... peripherally.

You're okay? You seem a little anxious.

I'm fine!

Oh, you take it, we're not in a hurry.

We're stable.

Thank you. Yeah. Hey, nice to meet ya, Evan.

- It's a pleasure. - And, uh... Chelsey. Right?

Hope to see you soon.

Probably not!

Since we don't run in the same circles

or anything anymore.

He seemed nice. Tall.

Oh!

- Do you know this person? - Dione?

Oh!

- Dione! - Surprise!

Hi!

What are you doing here?!

As if I would let you take a taxi, Miss Princess.

Hmm!

O-M-G. Is this... Evan I-R-L?

- Yes! - It is,

it's an absolute, pleasure, I've heard so much about you.

Hey. We don't shake hands here in Pine Falls.

- Ah! We hug it out! - Oh, my. Yeah.

- Yeah. - Solid!

- Thanks! - All right. Bags?

Bags in the back. Yeah, okay.

I'm so excited!

Okay, so, remind me how you two met.

Oh, I love this story! Do you wanna tell it? You tell it, you tell it.

- We met at a hotel. - Ooh!

- Yeah. - I was there

for a speaking engagement,

and Evan was there for an insurance conference.

- Oh! - Yes, yes!

It was a good one, too.

We locked eyes from across the lobby and walked towards one another...

And I asked for her business card.

I know, I know, I know! And my hand was shaking!

- Ah, I can imagine. - Well, I mean, look at her!

Anyway, so we met up in Orlando for a cup of coffee,

and we spoke hours about how we have all the same life goals,

it was wonderful!

A real meet cute for the ages!

That's what I said! Speaking of which,

we actually ran into one of your high school buddies.

Matthew, not Matt, Matthew.

Matthew Hall?

Like, jawline you could cut glass on,

hazel eyes like a... like a sexy, lumberjack

who would also be like, really good at like, calculus?

I'm not sure how to answer that.

Yes. That Matthew Hall.

Calculus...

I would love to get these chandeliers working again.

Oh.

Hello?

- Ah! - Ah!

My beautiful girl

and favorite daughter of all time!

Well, I'm your only daughter, but I'll take it. Mom, this is Evan.

Mrs. Banks. I have heard so much about you!

Oh, we've got a hugger!

Well, I was informed that Pine Falls has standards, so...

Well, I'll leave you guys to catch up.

Nice to see you again, Chelsey. Uh... goodbye, Miss Banks.

Oh, Gary, call me Jamie!

Oh, I'll be in touch to fix the wiring and, um,

see you soon, um, Jamie.

Somebody is a smitten kitten.

You must be happy to have

a handyman around again, huh, Mom?

- What do you mean? - Nothing. I'm happy to be home.

Ah, it's hard to believe

it's the 25th Annual Holiday Banks Bash.

Oh, my, that's some feat!

It really is! And with my secret weapon,

we're aiming to expand to the supply drive

and double the donations

to the women's and children's shelter.

Hmm, secret weapon, huh?

You, sir, are in for a treat.

And nobody throws a party like Mama B, okay?

You are not even gonna recognize this barn

in a few days.

Speaking of! We've got work to do.

Five days 'til Christmas, five days 'til the bash.

All hands on deck!

- Reporting for duty! - Consider it done.

Mm! You see that?

Do you know what would make this more productive?

I do, but I am enjoying

just a rare few hours away from the restaurant.

Okay, so, are we just going to act like

you didn't see Matty for the first time in

over a decade, and then lied to your boyfriend

about the fact that he was your ex-lover?

I didn't lie!

And he might as well be a stranger for what he did to me.

Okay, that might be a tad dramatic.

- He started the curse! - Oh, god, not the curse again.

Well, what would you call being dumped every December

- for your entire life? - A string of coincidences!

Like the popcorn on this string.

Well, it doesn't matter anymore,

I have Evan, and he's perfect.

Yeah! H-He seems fine.

Wow.

So great bringing a boyfriend home

for the first time at Christmas.

I'm sorry, but where is the passion?

Where's the spice? You know? You guys wanna be able to have

fun together and laugh together,

and wanna rip each other's clothes off.

We have passion!

Let me assure you, Evan is very thorough.

Ew. No. Stopping you there.

Okay. What's your favorite little quirk of his?

Um...

He irons his pajamas.

I mean, that's a quirk! It's cute, right?

What about you?

I am already in a committed relationship.

The restaurant.

Dione, your restaurant

is not a replacement for a partner.

- But hey, I'll stay out of your love life. - Oof. Unlikely.

I will!

Just as long as you give Evan more grace

than you give your exes.

No doubt Evan is a great guy,

who thoroughly checks your boxes, but...

Chels, you deserve someone who lights you up on the inside!

Evan could be that!

We just have to get through Christmas.

Okay, so your professional advice to yourself,

as a dating expert,

is to defeat the dark Christmas curse?

Rude.

Hey!

What are you doing here?

Is that a new way to greet a peripheral acquaintance?

I'm sorry, the red carpet hasn't arrived yet,

but once it's here, I'll be sure to roll it out for you.

Oh. I miss that Banks sweat.

Seriously, Matthew. Why are you here?

Your mom heard I was in town and she asked me for a favor.

Of course she did.

You're the secret weapon.

I prefer family friend.

Well, she's not here.

There was a fabric emergency or something

for the holiday bash,

which you obviously know about already.

I'll let her know that you stopped by.

Thank you.

Yeah, she wanted me to make a website for the supply drive.

- A website? - Yeah, here.

Now we can reach donors outside of Pine Falls,

so we can help more families in need,

and greater reach, you know? Take a look.

So

Donors can now buy supplies directly from stores,

based on a sponsored family's wishlist.

Wow.

- You like it? - It's good.

I personally would add a little more holiday flare,

- but that's just me. - Yeah.

Maybe you could add the option to rank items by priority.

You know? High to low. Just a thought.

That's... that's actually a really great idea.

Okay, well, you can invoice me or my mom,

and I'll make sure it gets taken care of

by the end of the week.

Yeah, okay.

Why do you keep laughing at me?

I...

I just, I think it's funny when you get flustered.

What is this flustered obsession?

It's not an ob...

You're still the same Chelsey I knew,

you're just now all business-y.

- I'm super fun. - Yeah!

No, all the most fun people I know

break dating down into lists and roles.

So you do keep tabs on me.

No.

I may have watched some of your videos.

Actually, my favorite one is...

"Five Non-Verbal Techniques to Attract a Mate."

And?

It's pretty good.

Ruined my algorithm, though!

Bye!

Everything okay with work?

I'm sorry, I'll disconnect.

That's all right.

- Babe. - Yeah.

What's your favorite little quirk about me?

Ooh.

I love how driven you are.

That's not a quirk! That's a LinkedIn endorsement.

A quirk is like, an imperfection or a weird habit.

I don't think you have any of those.

Come on! You're just being nice.

Okay, um, let's see.

Oh, okay, here's a thing, um...

No, I can't, it's stupid, it's...

- Oh, now you have to! - I'm not doing this.

- Come on. - Okay.

Sometimes, when you're really stressed out,

you do this, um,

you do this high-pitched thing with your voice.

You don't like the sound of my voice?!

No! No, no, no! That's not what I... I mean, yes! Yes, I love your voice! It's...

My voice makes your... My voice makes your ears hurt?

No! No.

It's just when you're stressed, or excited, or...

- Okay, that's enough. - I mean, you asked me about the quirk!

That's not a quirk, Evan.

That's like saying you don't like the way that I smell!

- Well, you smell great. - Oh, thank God

I've got that going for me!

Well, okay, what's one of my quirks then?

Before you told me I made your ears bleed,

you were pretty perfect on paper.

I know, but I'm not!

And that's the point. I'll prove it to you.

- I hate the cold. - Mm.

Ah, I hate the cold! I'm cold right now.

I've been cold all day! Didn't wanna say anything, I...

Matter of fact, I've been cold since we got off the airplane,

but you know what I do? I put on a brave face.

- Oh! Well, you know what? - What?

You don't have to be brave when there's blankets!

- Thank you! - Mm-hmm.

- I was freezing. - You know what I think?

Tomorrow, I'm gonna bundle you up,

we're gonna go into town, and by the end of the day,

we're gonna have so much fun,

you're not even gonna notice the cold.

Challenge... accepted.

Whatever!

Hello.

Can you roll your eyes a little more quietly?

I'm trying to work here.

- I didn't roll my eyes. - Yeah, you did.

I know you.

Just like I know you're mocking me right now.

What are you doing in our kitchen alone?

Your mom is setting up at the barn,

I have to work on the website,

I need WiFi, it's four days 'til Christmas,

gotta get this thing up and running.

That was nice of you.

Well, I'm a nice guy.

So, what are you cooking?

I'm warming Evan's socks in the oven

before I take him into town.

What?

Nothing, it's just

you just always used to do nice things like that.

- Like what? - Like

anticipating what somebody needs before they ask.

- You know how you used to... - Yeah, no.

Let's not do this.

I'm not... I'm not gonna just reminisce, okay, except,

remember that one time we both went sledding?

I hit a rock and I just wiped out.

You rolled down that hill like you had no bones.

Right, and I landed in a snow bank,

and I got all wet, my feet were soaked.

We went back to your house and I tried to dry your mittens...

In the microwave, Chelsey!

Yeah, I turned it up way too high for too long,

and they almost freaking melted.

We had to throw that microwave away!

You know, my whole house smelled like a burnt chicken coop for like a month!

See? You were always thoughtful.

Nice and toasty. I should go.

See ya.

See ya? Just... stupid.

Isn't it perfect?

Doesn't it make you feel like you want it to be December all year?

It makes me happy that it makes you happy.

- That's not an answer! - Sure it is, sure it is!

- Let's get some hot chocolate. - Hot chocolate? It's like 10 AM.

I'll do, uh... coffee.

Gingerbread latte, holiday spice, eggnog latte?

Black. No sugar, no cream, no Christmas stuff.

One hot chocolate and one black coffee

for Ebenezer Scrooge here, please.

That's right.

How are you not freezing?

It's crisp! It makes you feel alive!

- Makes me feel nothing. - Oh.

I can't feel my toes anymore.

Here you go, thank you. Thank you. Keep the change.

Merry Christmas.

- This is for you. - Thank you.

- Feel warm? - I wouldn't push...

- Good, 'cause I got something to show you! - Okay.

Don't you love it?

Did you know that the average age

for an ice skating injury last year was 33 years old?

Then let's break the statistic!

Just... go on without me.

I'll be okay.

- Surprise! - Oh, my God, Dione!

You almost took both of us out! What are you doing here?

I come here on my lunch break!

Hey! Kamilla!

Come meet my bestie!

Kamilla is a travelling nurse.

She comes to the restaurant sometimes on her break.

- Oh! - Evan!

Let me help you.

I'm a nurse, what's your name?

Evan.

Got it?

- Thank you. - You got it?

Thanks.

Are you in pain?

Mostly just my ego, I think.

I'm Kamilla, by the way, here.

It heats up instantly, I have dozens of them

placed strategically all over my body.

All righty, well, I should head back to the restaurant.

Santa visit starts in 10.

I love the Timber Trail at Christmas.

Do you feel up for going to the restaurant?

Yeah! Yeah! Yeah, it's indoors, right?

Yes! We do keep it at around 30 degrees,

you know, so it feels like the North Pole for Santa.

- Why? - I am messing with you, E!

- All right, I'll see you later. - It was nice to meet you both!

- It was nice to meet you. - Come on.

- Hey, uh, thanks again. - Yeah, no problem.

D! The place looks incredible!

Aw, thanks, Chels!

Yeah, it's great.

Hey, listen, if we are hanging around for a bite to eat,

you wouldn't happen to have... an extra comfy chair, would you?

Oh, Mom's expecting us.

Oh, okay! Don't even worry about it then.

It's all fine. It's good.

Is that Gary?

Yes, Gary is our resident Saint Nick.

Hey, Chelsey!

That is so sweet.

I remember when my dad used to do that.

Wait, did you notice anything between him and my mom?

Definitely! I would say Jamie is probably hoping

for a very Gary Christmas, if you ask me.

- Okay, Dione, that's enough. - He gets it.

I get it.

So families just fill out this form,

which puts them into the system,

and then they can choose a retailer,

and they build a registry.

And they can pick out whatever they want?

Yeah, anything, they got toiletries,

they got clothes, even furniture.

This is wonderful, Matthew. You're a genius!

- Thank you! - Hello!

- We're back. - In the kitchen, love!

- The options are good... - Good job.

There's a whole turkey thing.

Will you look at that?

- Hey. - Matthew!

- We keep running into ya. - Yes, we do.

I was just leaving.

Chelsey, you will not believe what Matthew has done

with the supply drive.

I made it more festive. Do you approve?

It's festive, I guess.

Show her the priority option.

That was all Chelsey's idea, actually.

In true fashion.

You'll have to excuse me, though,

I have to go thaw in a very long, very hot bath.

I'll bring you that ice pack.

Kamilla suggested when you're done.

Oh, thank you, sweetheart. Matthew.

Sweet guy. An ice pack? I thought he was cold.

No, he fell at ice skating and hurt his tailbone.

So you have to ice his butt?

Thank you.

Just like old times.

All of us around the island laughing.

Matthew?

Why don't you join us for Christmas Eve dinner?

Mom! No! I'm sure he has something to do.

And wouldn't that be weird considering...

Chelsey, you dated years ago. You've got a boyfriend!

Don't get your feathers all ruffled.

I'd love to. My dad has plans that evening

at the legion, so I'm free.

Plus, somebody's gotta be there to help Chelsey loosen up.

I don't need loosening up, thanks.

You'll have to excuse me. This has been lovely, Matthew.

But I have to get this food over to Gary.

He won't let me pay him for helping with the barn,

so it's the least I can do.

- Bye. Love you. - Love you.

Thank you, Mrs. Banks.

So cute.

You didn't have to give me credit for that priority setting thing.

I thought people should know it's your idea.

The registries are pretty cool too.

Thank you.

But what do you even know about registries?

Are you fishing for my relationship status?

Get over yourself!

Oh, I'm over myself. Are you over me?

Of course I'm over you, it's been 15 years.

I'm a grown woman.

- I should be going. - Yeah.

No wife, no girlfriend.

Oh, don't forget Evan's butt ice!

Don't forget, Chelsey.

- Bye, Evan! - Bye, Matthew!

Thanks for meeting me on my break.

Oh, you've been helping non-stop,

- it's the least I could do! - Yeah.

Oh, wow, Jamie. This looks delicious.

Oh, stop, it's nothing special.

Just a little meatloaf, mashed potatoes, green beans...

And some sugar cookies for later, if you want.

Mm!

I-I don't wanna be presumptuous, but, uh

the kids convinced me not to fly this year,

because of the storms they're having.

So I'm on my own.

If you would like to have dinner on Christmas Eve with me,

you and Chelsey are welcome to come over.

Oh! Uh, well, actually,

I usually host our Christmas Eve dinner.

It's a tradition with the family.

It's okay, I understand.

I should probably get going, I, um, still have so much to do.

I'm sorry, I didn't mean to make you feel uncomfortable.

No! And, uh, I'll see you later. Bye, Gary.

Bye, Jamie.

- Unbelievable. - Hey, hon. Fresh ice.

- Hey. Oh, wow! Thank you. - How's your back?

Oh, it's much better!

Hey, listen to this, did you know that

the hummingbird's unique flight mechanics

allow it to be the only species of bird to fly backwards, sideways

and even upside down in short bursts!

Are you on your bird bro's chat again?

Yes, of course, the Birdy Bros are my number one source

- for getting my birdy facts. - I'll take your word for it.

Yeah. Hey, uh, what are you up to?

Oh, just holiday bash stuff, running errands for my mom.

- Ah. - There's only three more days!

I know! I wish I could be more help, I'm so sorry.

Kamilla said that if I rest up, it'll heal a lot better

and I can be a lot more useful.

Oh, she came by, by the way, and she gave me

a funny little pillow so I can sit on chairs without it being painful.

Huh. That's very thoughtful of her.

Yeah! I thought so too. Thanks for the ice.

Are you happy here?

Well, I mean,

I'm sitting on a couple of ice packs for the bruised tailbone.

But I love your mother, oh my gosh, what a sweetheart.

And this town is adorable.

It's just, sometimes I can't tell how you're feeling.

- I feel like you're perfect. - Aside from my voice.

You tick every box. Including the voice box.

I'm sorry. I don't know what's wrong with me,

I just get so nervous around Christmas.

Why? What's wrong with Christmas?

Nothing, it's nothing, I'm just tired.

Okay.

- Hey. - Hmm?

Wanna watch a movie? Pass out?

- Comedy? - Psychological thriller.

Hmm?

- Matty? - Hey.

What are you doing?

I missed you.

It's only been two hours.

Tell me about it.

I wanted to tell you something.

- What? - I love you, Chelsey Banks.

We've only been dating four months.

Yeah, it's plenty of time!

I love you.

And I don't plan on stopping anytime soon,

so... get used to it.

Go home. Before you fall and break your neck.

- Yeah, you're right, okay. - Okay.

All right.

- Matty. - Yeah?

I love you too.

- Woo! - Shh!

- Go! - Okay, yeah, shh.

- Go! - Okay, all right.

See you tomorrow.

- Mom! - Good morning, honey.

I've got errands!

Plus I've got the Christmas Eve dinner tomorrow and...

You've been going non-stop.

Breathe, relax. Come sit with me.

Anything for you.

Okay.

- Ah... This is nice. - Yes, it is.

Do you remember when Dad would stay out here for hours

and wait for the deer?

He'd give them names and back stories

about what their life was like.

Why do you think I still fill that feeder?

It's certainly not because I like stepping into deer poop.

How is it with Gary?

What do you mean?

I brought him a meal.

Just being polite.

I just want you to know it would be okay

if it was more than just being polite.

It was so easy with your dad.

We naturally challenged each other.

But we were also each other's biggest cheerleaders.

He was my favorite person in the world,

until you came along.

We brought out the best in each other.

What about me and Evan?

Do you think we bring out the best in each other?

Oh, honey.

You think because you give people dating advice

that someone should give you the answer.

But love doesn't work that way.

Not in my experience.

It's... a feeling.

If he's right for you, you'll know.

Dione!

You have to listen to me, everything is gonna be okay!

No, seriously, we're gonna figure this out!

Hold on one second.

The supply drive exploded,

people are dropping off donations to the restaurant,

but there's more orders coming in,

and Dione needs somebody to go into town

with Kamilla and get 'em.

I mean...

I'm not doing anything, I-I can do it.

What about your back?

Don't worry about it, it's much better.

- Okay. - Go ahead,

just let her know I got it.

- Thanks. - Yeah.

Hey, D.

I have a solution.

Evan is going to meet Kamilla in town

so I can meet you at the tavern. See? No stress.

Mm-hmm.

- Everything okay? - Yeah! Totally!

- You know what? - No, no.

I'm just gonna go.

Thank you so much.

Okay. That's good.

That's fine.

The curse! It's happening again!

With a perfect woman I can't compete with.

Hi. Hello, Dione, so good to see you!

How can I help you

with this massive shipment of donations?

- I'm sorry, I suck! - No, you don't!

I am kidding. You know I love drama.

Okay, walk me through this.

Who is this perfect girl

that the curse has brought upon us?

Kamilla. The ice skating travel nurse.

Evan's on a date with her right now.

- Oh, a date! - Pretty much!

Uh, would you mind sitting down?

You're making me a little dizzy.

What actually happened?

Kamilla helped Evan when he fell on the ice.

Then, they bonded over being cold!

When I told him that Kamilla needed help going into town,

he jumped at the opportunity!

They have a whole vibe.

Okay. Let's say that there is a vibe,

don't you trust him?

- Of course I do! - Okay, so what's the problem?

I just thought that I would break the curse this Christmas

and finally get on with my life!

Okay, so this is not about Evan,

this is about you wanting to end "the curse."

Last time I ask, because I love you,

are you sure that you're not clinging onto Evan

because you think that he's the antidote

to some imaginary curse?

I'm not sure of anything anymore.

Okay, okay. Tell Evan about it, you know?

Maybe you guys can laugh together?

I've never told anyone I've dated about this.

They would think I was absolutely crazy.

No! It's not necessarily crazy to believe in a curse, I mean,

unless you walk around with garlic in your socks

like my grandma did.

I'd put anything in my socks

if it meant not thinking about Matty Hall.

Hello, Matthew!

Matty, huh?

I haven't heard you call me that in a long time.

Did he hear me?

I think he did.

- Hey, Dione. - Hey!

Do you want to roll up your sleeves and help some families?

- Absolutely. - Thank you so much!

How are you holding up?

I mean, my tailbone is still pretty sore,

but I think I'll survive.

On the bright side, my hand warmers

are working wonders in my underwear.

My tailbone is less sore.

So how long have you been a traveling nurse?

Since graduating.

Do you ever get lonely?

Yeah, starting to.

The hope was to find somewhere to put roots down

and focus on starting a family if that's meant to be.

But yeah, as much as I like it here in Pine Falls,

the people, I think my next contract

needs to be somewhere warmer.

Yeah. Yeah.

That's why I live in Orlando.

Wait, really? You live in Orlando?

The home of Disney World?

Yeah.

Okay, I'm...

I'm a total Disney adult.

Wait, are you kidding?

No, not even a little.

- You're serious! - Yeah.

Sorry! Did I make it weird?

No, no, no! Not at all. Not at all. I'm...

I'm also a Disney adult.

Wait, really?

Yeah. Yup!

I mean, you know, Chelsea's really busy with work and stuff,

so I end up going alone, but...

Well, you know, Dapper Days

isn't the same without Dapper Dave, but I make do.

Hey, so. I actually learned how to sew my own swing dress

and how to style my hair in victory rolls

in preparation for Dapper Days.

It's very dramatic.

Yes. Very fancy.

We should go, we should go, we should go.

Yeah.

These are great choices. I love the pink curtains.

It matches your sweater.

And honestly if you guys hadn't taken the TV,

I was going to find a way to sneak it out the back myself.

Merry Christmas.

Alright, status report.

I think the curtains they picked out are going to tie the room together so nice.

You know, you're pretty good at this.

At picking out drapes for children's bedrooms?

No, at making people feel good.

In spite of needing help.

Alright, folks, that is it for intake.

I need the room back for dinner service.

Is there anything we... I can do?

Actually, Matthew, there is. If you could walk Chelsey out of here

before she starts alphabetizing my liquor bottles,

- I would appreciate it. - Bye!

- You okay? - Yeah! Totally. Why?

Well, you're just doing

that high-pitched thing you do with your voice

when you're trying to pretend that everything is okay

but really you're flipping out inside.

I know it's annoying, isn't it?

I didn't say that.

I actually think it's pretty cute.

I need some fresh air.

It's kind of cute, it's a nice thing.

Hey! Chelsey! Wait.

What's up?

I'm about to get dumped again, before Christmas.

Just like every December since you broke up with me.

You cursed me.

You seriously think that I put like a holiday hex on you?

There's no other explanation, Matthew!

And yes, I know it sounds bananas, but here we are.

Chelsey, I didn't curse you.

Everything was perfect with Evan.

He ticks every box on my list.

Sounds like a passionate connection.

I just need this to work. Because...

Because you love him?

Yes. Obviously.

Not because you're trying to break an imaginary curse?

I have to go.

I'm just going to ask the question.

Because I've never asked the question,

but it needs to be asked.

Sounds ominous.

What happened with you and Chelsey?

What do you mean?

We have a history, but that's all it is.

It's history.

But why is it history?

What the heck happened?

You broke up with her out of nowhere!

I don't know.

That was like a decade ago, I was a dumb kid.

Come on, Matthew,

you were a dumb kid who was totally in love!

What, you think I didn't read

every little love letter you wrote her?

Or, oh, the gifts you'd leave in her locker?

Or what base you got to and when?

Wow. Yeah, no...

I did think all that information was private, yeah.

Oh, there's nothing private about the two of you.

The chemistry alone could power this entire building.

Hey. So help me,

if the two of you leave this town

without admitting what is still there,

I swear I am going to...

I don't know what I'm going to do, but I will not be happy.

Can I get another beer?

Yes, but there is going to be a lot of foam in it.

Did you read all the letters?

Unbelievable.

Oh, hey!

- Hey. - How'd it go with Dione?

It was good. We got a lot done.

We met with some lovely families

who are getting much-needed help.

- Amazing. - Yeah.

- Everything okay? - Yeah! Totally.

- How about you? - Great.

- Good, good. - Yeah.

- Evan? - Yeah?

- It's freezing. - It is.

- What are you doing out here? - I was birdwatching.

- Yeah. - Oh.

Yeah, I saw a pair of cardinals.

Magnificent creature.

They're very territorial, they don't fly south,

and their bright red color pops against the snow.

Speaking of which,

I think my underwear handwarmers are officially dead.

Your what?

It's not important. Let's go inside. Help me up.

Do you think you can give me a minute?

- Yeah, of course. - Thank you.

Hey! How's the decorating going?

Good.

Just taking a bit of a break.

I love that one.

Me too.

You know...

I've got a lot of love in my life.

There's you, the community.

But at the end of the day, I just get a little lonely.

I know it's silly.

No, it's not silly, Mom. It's human.

Which is why I wonder

if it's worth exploring something with Gary.

He's a lovely man.

But I just don't feel right dating.

It's been years.

Dad would want you to be happy and loved.

If you're ready for it.

I like Gary!

That's great. You said it.

I do!

But I'm scared I already messed it up.

Why?

Well...

When I brought him lunch,

he mentioned that he'd be doing Christmas alone.

I had every opportunity to invite him to our dinner

but I just froze.

He probably thinks I blew him off.

No.

Do you really want Gary at our Christmas Eve dinner?

Yes. It would be so nice.

Then leave it to me.

Trust me.

- Say, "Christmas!" - Christmas!

Nice! Wave to Mom!

Hello there, adult lady!

Do you have a child that wants to meet Santa?

No. But I have a wish, if that's okay?

Sure. Even elder children can make a wish.

Go ahead, sit on Santa's lap!

- Elder children? - Mm-hmm.

Do we have any non-lap options?

Listen, lady. I'm due for a break anyway.

Sit, hover, dance, I don't care.

Great, thanks for your flexibility.

Yeah.

Hello, Santa!

Ho, ho, ho, young lady!

I have a wish for my mom.

Tell me more.

I have it on good authority

that she has a crush on someone,

but she doesn't know how to show it.

Is that so?

She even inadvertently thinks she may have pushed him away

and ruined everything.

Oh no, she didn't ruin anything at all.

I was hoping that was the case, Santa.

Okay, so here's my Christmas wish.

I would love for this man

to come to the house on Christmas Eve

because I know she wanted to invite him

and it would make her so, so happy.

I wouldn't miss it for anything in this world.

Well, then. Merry Christmas, Santa.

Merry Christmas, Chelsey.

Matthew?

- Hey! - Hey.

Hey, Zach. Two hot chocolates please.

Oh, no. I'm not staying.

I actually just wanted to apologize.

Apology accepted. Can you make those to go, please?

- I didn't even say sorry yet. - Oh, you will.

On the walk we're about to take.

There you go.

Yeah. Let's go.

There you go.

Do you always carry candy canes in your pocket?

Obviously.

What happens if there's hot chocolate present

and I don't have any candy canes? I mean...

That'd be tragic.

See? You get it.

The Bragging Wagon. It survived.

Want to sit with me?

Relax, I know you're taken.

I'm not going to try any bragging. Come on.

Oh, thank you.

Oh, look.

Oh!

I remember the day you carved that.

You told me I made you feel alive.

That's how I felt.

So is everything okay with you and Evan?

You seem calm, so I'm assuming that he hasn't run off

and eloped with Kamilla yet.

Not yet, anyway.

There's still a few days until Christmas.

Oh! Right. The curse.

Okay.

So, Miss Relationship Expert,

how did you guys meet?

Like a dating app?

- No, we met in the wild. - Oof.

That's bold, primitive, almost.

Not really.

You need to meet someone in person

to notice their crooked smile or the twinkle in their eye,

or that scruff on the beard that you know is going to itch when you kiss,

but it's totally worth it.

Yeah, I'm sorry, I would've shaved closer but...

I'm not talking about you.

I don't have a twinkle in my eye?

Can I say something dorky?

Yeah. Seems accurate, coming from a dork.

It was really nice hearing you call me Matty.

Chels, I feel like I have to explain to you why...

I think I should go.

Yeah.

Thanks for the hot chocolate.

Yep.

I guess I'll see you at dinner tomorrow?

You will.

You weren't really going to let me walk back by myself, were you?

What, no!

No, I just really thought it was fun watching you

entertain the idea.

- Uh-huh. - Oh, thank you.

- Mm-hm. - Oh, god.

Does Evan get that kind of treatment?

So? How did it go with Gary?

Good, I think him and my mom might actually have something.

At least I hope.

Get out of here.

- Mm-hmm. - Look at that.

And you've even managed to find a way to work from here.

It's not work, Evan. It's for my mom.

No! No, no, no, no. I didn't mean it that way.

I just, you know...

I'll try to be better with the work stuff.

Well, you don't want to do that.

Relationships are about compromise.

Nobody's perfect, sweetheart.

So we might as well not start compromising on our passions.

What if I was passionate about robbing liquor stores?

I would say that you could do anything you put your mind to.

Can we talk about this tomorrow? I'm really tired.

- Sure. - Okay. Thanks.

You seem out of breath. Are you cold?

- No, just nervous. - Nervous?

Nervous, like butterflies in my stomach.

I know it sounds stupid, doesn't it?

No, no, that doesn't sound stupid.

Because that's what makes you, you.

I wouldn't change a thing about you.

Really?

Really.

Because you, Chelsey Banks...

- No. - You make me feel alive!

I love you, you dork.

I love you too.

You feel like home.

Wow! Mom, this looks amazing.

And smells even better.

When do we eat?

Everything is ready to go!

Just keeping it warm until everyone arrives.

Hmm, I see you set a place for Gary.

Well, you said you were going to work your magic.

I think you should get it, Mom.

Hi!

I figured I couldn't compete in the food department,

so I bought some wine and some flowers.

I can't remember the last time someone brought me flowers.

They're beautiful.

You deserve beautiful things.

- Come on in! - Okay!

Oh, Gary!

It's so good to see you without the white beard.

Well, thank you for having me.

Hey, don't leave me out of this.

Oh, thank you! You want me to crack this open?

- If you don't mind! - Of course.

Oh, Gary understood the assignment.

Merry Christmas Eve, everyone.

Dione, you look fantastic.

Gary, good to see you.

- Hi sweetheart. - I'll get some glasses, okay?

I'll help out, I've got free hands.

- Want to open this bad boy up? - Yes!

I'm going to get that.

I would like a big pour, please.

- We know. - Thank you.

Hey!

Why aren't you wearing pajamas?

What's so...

Listen, I know there's no dress code,

but you could have aimed for jeans or something like that.

Everyone here?

Yeah... Eat it up.

Oh, my God.

What's so funny?

A little help here, please.

We had this holiday tradition

where everyone would wear pajamas to Christmas Eve dinner.

And it's because when I was a kid,

I wanted to go to bed faster, so Santa would come.

I'm guessing that is no longer a tradition.

Not for a long time.

Well, I really wish I got that memo.

Regardless, I stand by my choices.

- Let me take your coat. - No.

- Wow. - Oh my.

Jamie, this is the most impressive meal

I have ever seen.

Aw. Thank you, all.

Cooking is more rewarding when you get to do it for loved ones.

I just want to say how grateful I am

for each person here at this table.

You make this town brighter.

You make my life better

just by being in it.

So, let's raise a glass

to family, to love,

and the 25th annual.

Banks's holiday bash tomorrow!

Cheers!

Merry Christmas.

Cheers, everyone.

Oh boy.

Okay, let's eat!

Food coma?

Are you expecting someone else?

No.

Merry Christmas!

Kamilla?

Hi! Um... Dione told me to swing by for dessert.

Yes! Dione did! Hey!

You know, Kamilla makes the most amazing

chocolate peppermint bundt, it's like Christmas exploding.

What can't you do?

I know it doesn't sound very cool,

but I recently joined this birdy...

Hey, everyone! Kamilla is here.

Kamilla! Hi. Hi.

- Hi. - Hi. Merry Christmas.

- Merry Christmas. - Happy Easter. Uh, you know?

Yeah, happy new year! Nice to meet you.

Dione.

Would you like to help me bring this cake into the kitchen?

I think you've got it on your own.

- Let's go. - Please be gentle.

Don't you think that you might be overreacting

just a little bit?

No. Keep walking. Go, go.

Ugh!

A bundt cake?

Why would you invite Kamilla?

She is my friend and she has like no family here.

But the vibes!

The only vibes that I see are between you and Matthew.

That's nostalgia.

- Is it? - Yes.

Or did you happen to find your way back

to the person you're actually supposed to be with?

I want you to be like so happy,

like cartwheeling in the snow happy.

You're my best friend, Dione. I don't want to fight.

I don't want to fight either.

Alright. You go entertain the troops,

I'll cut the cake.

Okay. You're crazy. But I love you.

I love you too.

- Where did everyone go? - Hey.

Gary offered to go help your mom with something in the barn.

Evan and Kamilla tagged along to go see it all lit up.

I'm getting some non-verbal cues right now.

You okay?

- Yeah, I'm fine. - Okay.

You?

I'm in my Christmas pajamas at your family dinner party.

So... I'm thriving.

You want to go get some fresh air?

- Want some? - Yeah, please.

- It's nice. - Yeah.

I don't know why I'm asking you this.

I mean, it's been so long.

And you didn't, I mean, you don't owe me an answer...

Is there a question in there somewhere?

Yes.

I just...

Why did you break up with me like that?

- Wow. Okay. - I know.

Okay, um.

You remember senior year?

I worked all summer mowing lawns.

Mm-hmm.

I was saving up to buy you a ring.

- A ring? - Yup.

Not like an engagement ring.

It was a...

It was a promise ring.

So you opted to break my heart in two million pieces instead?

No. My plan was to

give you the ring

once we both got our acceptance letters

to the same school.

- But you didn't get in. - Nah.

You thought I'd stop loving you

because we went to different schools?

No.

I know you, Chelsey.

And I know that you would've given up everything

to stay in Pine Falls with me.

I couldn't do that to you.

We would've found a way.

Maybe.

You know the day I got the rejection letter

was the same day as the Banks' holiday bash?

Yeah.

I looked at the ring and I thought,

"What can I promise her now?"

Right?

And I drove around your neighborhood like 30 times

and I...

And I went home.

And...

Then you came to my house with tears streaming down your face.

I decided that's the last time

that I'm ever going to make you cry like that.

And this is embarrassing,

but I carry the ring around with me as a reminder.

What?

It's a reminder not to make the same mistake again.

Yeah.

Do you ever wonder what would've happened

if we would've...

All the time.

But then we wouldn't be the people we are now, you know?

You wouldn't have your business,

or live in Orlando, or have Evan.

Yeah. Things would've been different.

You know, the reason that I came

to the holiday bash this year is because I...

I wanted to...

I don't know. Anyway, I'm just glad you're happy.

So I'm not cursed?

No, you're not cursed, Chels.

No.

If it makes you feel any better,

I haven't had any relationships that lasted past Christmas.

Oh, so you dumped them too?

No. They just didn't hold a candle to you.

Well, thank you for telling me.

Yeah.

You know, if you could do me a favor and just keep this conversation between us,

I would really appreciate that.

I don't think Evan would fight me,

but I don't know,

I don't know him well enough.

Deal.

Thank you.

Go set up, guys. Look great!

Chelsey! What do you think?

Oh, my gosh, you've outdone yourself!

And the lights! You fixed the lights!

- Gary fixed them. - I bet he did.

- Merry Christmas, hun. - Merry Christmas, Mom.

The party is starting soon, you'd better go get ready.

- Oh yeah. I love you. - Love you!

Nice to see you, welcome.

Fantastic.

Mom! You look amazing!

You look so good.

Gary. I need some champagne.

- Okay, have a good time. - Hi.

- I'm going to get some champagne. - Have a good time.

Merry Christmas.

Bonjour.

And a big old bonjour to you too.

May I have some red wine, s'il vous plait?

Uh-uh. Not until you tell me your name and where you're from,

you sexy little baguette.

I'm Nico.

And I just moved here, I'm from Marseille,

in the south of France.

I'm a ski instructor. And who are you?

Oh, I am a...

Smitten Kitten.

Enchanté.

Pamplemousse.

- Orange? - Étoile.

- Fraise. - La maison.

Nice.

- Hey. - Hey.

Can we take a walk?

Of course. Yeah.

- Thank you. - Of course.

- Are you okay? - Yeah. I'm great.

I've got to be honest with you.

I'm not so great.

Chelsey, these last few months with you...

They've been a dream.

I mean, we check every box for each other.

I couldn't ask for anything more.

But um...

Despite everything being so perfect,

it's not perfect, is it?

I've been feeling it too.

I was just too afraid to say it.

I am so sorry to be doing this

on Christmas, of all days.

It happens more than you'd think.

You're shaking like a leaf!

Yeah, it's got to be 20 below.

Actually, it's 32, it's kind of warm for Pine Falls.

What was I thinking?

I will always care about you,

and I will always want what's best for you.

Come here.

- Are you okay? - Yeah.

This is the nicest breakup I've ever had.

For what it's worth,

I think there's a certain nurse inside that wants to see you.

- Chelsey, I... - No, really.

It's not that often you see that kind of chemistry.

I'm an expert, I know.

It's fine. Just go.

Thank you.

What is one of the Banks' bash hostesses

doing standing still?

Just taking in the ambiance.

And getting dumped by a perfectly wonderful boyfriend.

The usual.

Ah. You and Evan broke up.

Yup. You don't seem surprised.

Well, sometimes the people we love

see things before we do.

Maybe.

I don't know anything anymore.

I think you know exactly what your heart is telling you.

You're just afraid to listen.

What if he breaks my heart again, Mom?

Oh, honey. What if he doesn't?

Trust me. It's worth the risk.

Hi, hi.

Gary. Have you seen Matthew yet?

Yeah, I saw him when you were talking to Evan,

he was heading to his car.

He saw me with Evan...

Tried calling out to him, he just kept walking.

I'm so sorry, I have to go.

- Go! - Okay.

Here goes nothing.

Matty!

Matty!

Matty, I still love you!

Chelsey?

Oh! Hi.

- Want to come down from there? - I do.

Okay.

- Come on down. - Okay.

Careful, please.

- Good? - Yeah.

Okay.

I had this grand sweeping plan that I was going to recreate

the time you climbed up to my bedroom window.

I'm more interested in the thing you said

immediately before that.

I love you.

I still love you.

And if I'm being honest,

I don't think I ever really stopped loving you.

What about Evan?

I got dumped on Christmas again.

- So what you're saying... - I'm trusting my gut.

For so long I've always done what's safe or right.

And then I saw you again.

And I realized you're what's safe.

You're what's always been right for me.

You're my biggest cheerleader, Matty Hall.

Even after all these years.

I could never give up on you, Chels.

Even if I tried.

Wait.

Yeah?

I have one important question.

Okay?

Do you actually like the sound of my voice?

I love the sound of your voice.

Even when it's all high-pitched and squeaky?

Well, that's my favorite part.

Good answer.

Come on, we're missing a party.

You're driving, I'm not driving.

And no more ladders, please.

Whatever.

I want to take a moment to thank everyone

that helped support this year's Pine Falls holiday drive.

Yay!

I am thrilled to announce

that we have quadrupled donations.

Yeah! Yeah!

And a special thank you to Matthew Hall

for our new program that helped us reach so many new donors.

And to every volunteer here tonight.

Thank you, you've made Christmas wishes come true!

Henry would be very proud,

as am I.

Thank you so much for honoring his memory in this way.

I am forever grateful.

Now let's dance!

May I have this dance

with the most beautiful woman in this room?

Well, point her out and I'll go get her for you!

Ah, right there!

- Hey. Come with me. - Okay.

What are you doing, Matty Hall?

Breaking the curse once and for all.

Come on.