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Today is December 19th, Marcus.

Go ahead.

What is that?

Let me see.

That red sparkly paint
you wanted.

I can't wait to see
what you do with this.

So it's six days
before Christmas.

You know what that means?

I'll get the aprons,
you get the bowls.

Come on.

Okay, Major Tom
is ready for lift-off.

What do you think?

Well, it's not how they look.

It's how they taste.

Mm!

Hey, sweetie!
How was piano lessons?

Good.

Actually...

Mr. Harrison asked

if there was a chance
we'd be home before the 23rd.

A slot opened up
in the Holiday Recital,

and he wants to give it to me.

Oh, I'm sorry, Maya.

We're going to be
in Orchardsville

through Christmas.

But, hey, that is so cool
that he asked you.

You must have
really impressed him.

Well, I've been working on

an arrangement

of "It Came Upon
The Midnight Clear"

It's an advanced piece,

but Mr. Harrison said
I was ready.

We should celebrate.

Grab a piping bag!

What are we making?

Gingerbread mailboxes?

Excuse me,
these are astronauts,

thank you very much.

That was my next guess.

Uh-huh.

We made them for Marcus.

But we made these...

for you.

Thanks, Mom.

Ah!

Marcus, it's time
for your reading.

We've gotta get you cleaned up.

Let's go, sweetie, come on.

Did you see
they have horse stables?

Marcus doesn't ride horses.

Well, maybe it's time
for him to try.

He might enjoy it.

You know, I sure am glad
you're coming.

I don't think I could do this
on my own.

I thought Rick
was meeting you there?

Rick...

Rick has a way of being
a million miles away

even when he's standing
right next to you.

Anyway, I don't even know
what I was thinking

doing this so close
to Christmas...

Why did you?

Because he was so insistent.

You know how he does,

swoops in
when it's convenient for him.

Mom, I'm just tired
of reliving the same argument,

over and over.

Marcus is 18.

It's always hard

to watch your little ones
fly away,

but he's gonna need his parents
to give him that nudge.

Mom, it's different
with Marcus.

With his autism,

he depends on structure
and consistency,

waking up to familiar faces,
doing familiar things.

Besides, we've tried
programs like this before,

and they just haven't
worked out.

I just don't think he's ready
for this type of change.

He's not ready...

or you're not ready?

All right, big boy,

time to turn in.

We've got a big day tomorrow.

Good night, sweetheart.

I love you
to the moon and back.

Okay.

Shouldn't we be
getting on the road

if we're planning on
getting there by 4:00?

Well, I mean,

Marcus was so excited

to try out
his new colored pencils,

and I'm sure it'll be fine

if we get there
a little later than planned.

Besides, it'll give me a chance

to do a few more
loads of laundry.

I heard you were in charge
of the Christmas playlist

for our trip.

I was hoping you might
indulge your grandma,

and add a little Nat King Cole.

Sure.

I know you weren't expecting
to spend Christmas

away from home, but...

give it a chance.

It could be fun.

We couldn't have picked
a nicer day to travel.

Your turn.

I'm not really up
for the positivity game.

Just one?

For me?

We get to spend Christmas
all together...

That's good.

That's really good.

You win,

this round
of the Positivity Game.

We're going to be
leaving soon,

on a trip.

It's going to take us
far away from home.

Marcus, look at me.

We're going on an adventure,

just like the astronauts
in your book.

There is nothing to worry about.

I will be by your side
the whole time.

Wow...

That Christmas tree is amazing.

I love what you're doing
with the sparkly red paint.

It's beautiful.

Mom...

Hmm?

Could you drive
a little faster?

Cars are backed up behind us.

I'm going the speed limit.

You're driving ten miles
under the speed limit.

I'm just being cautious.

You're such
a road hazard, Mom.

♪ Christmas Eve is coming soon ♪

♪ Now, you dear old man ♪

♪ Whisper
what you'll bring to me ♪

♪ Tell me if you can... ♪

Hey, guys,
there's a Christmas market

in the middle of town.

I thought it might be fun
to go down there.

We can do some shopping.

Won't you be busy
with Marcus's tour?

Shouldn't take more
than an hour or two.

We'll have the whole day
to explore.

Why do you have two suitcases?

This one is for clothes.

The other is for
a little Christmas cheer.

Oh.

Dad!

Baby girl!

Oh...

Hey, buddy!

Oh...

Whoa, you need a shave.

Look at that.

Robin, Merry Christmas.

Merry Christmas.

Hello, Lena.

Hello.

So what do you think?

Pretty nice place
to ring in the holidays, huh?

It's lovely.

I made sure you got a room
with the best view, baby girl.

Come on, Marcus.

You're two hours late.

You missed our appointment.

You promised that you would
give this a chance.

I'm here, Rick, aren't I?

Lena, this is--

Hope Hills
will still be open tomorrow.

We can go decide then.

It's not just our decision.

Hope Hills has to decide
if Marcus is a good candidate.

Wait, they decide on Marcus?

Yes.

They've got to make sure

that he's a good fit
for the program.

This is their first opening
in two years.

Here, I've got it--

That's okay. I got it.

Yeah.

Hello! Welcome!

I'm Beth.

Hi, Beth. I'm Lena,

this is my mother, Robin,

my daughter Maya,

and this is my son, Marcus.

And you've already met Rick.

We are so happy
to have you all here.

Did you get a chance
to see Hope Hills?

Uh, tomorrow.

We have two double rooms
for you.

Rooms three and four,

and we serve breakfast
between 8:00 and 9:00.

Double-blooming Candy Canes?

Yes.

Nana owns a flower shop.

Did.

I'm retired,

but amaryllis is my favorite
Christmas flower.

I haven't done much

in the way of
Christmas decorations this year.

Time can get away from you.

Well, this is all you need.

Uh, I did just bake
some biscotti,

in case you wanted a snack.

You can find it in the kitchen.

Please, just have
the run of the house,

and let me help you
with your luggage?

Oh, no, no, no.

Thank you
for such a warm welcome.

Yes, thank you so much.

Thank you.

You want to thank
Miss Beth, Marcus?

You're so welcome.

Our house is your house, Marcus,

and let us know if there's
anything you need, Maya.

Thanks.

All right,
let's get settled in.

Special delivery
for a Mr. Marcus?

They were selling them

down at the Christmas market
downtown.

That is really nice.

Yeah.

Yeah...

Um, could use
some decorations, though.

Say no more.

A little Christmas cheer?

I never travel
without my essentials.

Catch!

Ho ho! Okay!

Come on, Marcus,

let's see what we can do
with this tree.

All right,

I think we're going to need
some light there, uh, Grandma?

You got lights?

I guess not.

Maya...

What are you doing up?

Nothing.

Were you about to have cookies
at 11:00 at night?

No.

Well, I hope not.

Not without milk.

Oh, my gosh.

What is that?

That you're tasting?

Mm-hmm.

Anise...

hazelnut...

and orange.

Mm.

So good.

Happiness.

- These are crazy good.
- Mm...

Maya...

I know it was a lot to ask

that you spend
your Christmas up here

away from home,

but...

this is a once in a lifetime
opportunity for Marcus.

I know.

You are such a good sister.

Oh.

I was just coming down
to get a...

glass of water.

Mm-hmm.

- Come on.
- Come here, Nana.

They're so good.

So good.

All right, up.

Good.

There we go.

Good.

I know it's a little itchy,
but we're almost there.

There.

All right, rinse.

Here's a hand towel.

All right.

Now for the grand finale.

Let's do your aftershave,
my man.

It's all right, it's all right.

It'll cool down.

There you go.

You look like a million bucks,

and you smell good.

I'm proud of you.

All right.

Looking sharp.

Marcus.

Marcus, hey.

Remember what we do
when you meet people?

Look me in the eye.

Right here.

Good job.

I'm not sure about that tie.

I think it suits him.

Found 'em.

Bottom of his suitcase.

Oh, thanks, Mom.

Rick, I'm so glad you're here.

How's everything?

How's work?

Work? It's good.

Busy, but good.

Working on a new ad campaign.

And how's Amanda?

Uh, she's spending Christmas
with her sister up in Albany.

Hmm.

Oh, look, it's almost 10:00.

Hey, Marcus,

ready to knock their socks off?

Good luck, baby.

We're meeting Madelyn Quin,
the program director.

She's very nice.

You've spoken to her already?

Just once, briefly.

Oh.

- It's okay.
- It's all right, buddy.

It's all right.

It's very nice
to meet you, Marcus.

I'm Madelyn.

Thanks again
for making time for us.

Sorry about check-in.

The day just got away from us.

I understand.

Things are always
a little unpredictable

around the holidays.

Shall we start the tour?

Sounds good.

Right this way.

Sorry.

Don't stop on my account.

I'm Henry.

Maya.

You work here?

Since I was 10, yeah.

My mom runs the place.

How long you been
playing piano for?

Two years.

My mom said

everybody in the family's
got to have their own thing.

I chose the piano.

My brother, Marcus, has drawing

and space travel.

Dad likes photography.

What's your Mom's thing?

Marcus.

I've been home-schooling Marcus
for over 16 years.

He's a really great reader.

We haven't quite got
the verbalizing part down yet,

but he invented
his own sign language.

It's called Marcush.

We have built a database
of thousands of objects

that he can access

faster that I can say
"I want a gingerbread cookie."

I love gingerbread, too.

Here at Hope Hills,

we make gingerbread houses
this time of year.

Would you like to see?

You can scroll through
if you like.

That's a gingerbread forest.

This is our art classroom.

They're painting the backdrop
for our Christmas play.

Wonderful.

Maybe we make the bow
a little bigger,

and add on some more colour.

How about some orange?

Yeah, okay.

"Twas The Night
Before Christmas."

How'd you know?

Well, there's no fire
in the fireplace

so Santa can
get down the chimney.

Marcus has always loved
that story.

Hey, buddy.

Wow!

Look at all these colors.

Seems like Marcus
is ready to start.

So, what do you think?

Hmm, it clashes
with your outfit.

Not for me,

for our wishing wreaths.

We're making wreaths?

We make them every year.

But we're away from home.

The great thing
about traditions

is you can bring them
wherever you go.

I know Christmas is
different this year,

but we can still
make it ours.

What do you say?

I like the red one.

Excellent choice.

Eye on the prize, come on,
you've got this.

This is the dorm
where Marcus will be staying

while he's with us.

Oh, Marcus already
has a room at the guest center.

During Marcus's
assessment period,

we require
that he stay on site.

Well, will we be able
to visit him?

There's no contact with family
over the trial weekend.

You mean, we're supposed
to leave Marcus here

for the whole weekend?

We find that
this is a necessary step

in the evaluation process.

We need to be sure

that Hope Hills
is a good fit for Marcus.

Our students' well-being

is our main priority.

- Can you give us a moment?
- Mm-hmm.

I did not agree to this.

I know,

but it's just down the road.

It's in walking distance.

It's Christmas, Rick.

And this could be
the best gift

we ever give Marcus.

You ambushed me.

No, no, no,

I did not know anything

about this parent-free
assessment time.

I was just as surprised.

But you've got to admit,

this place is pretty impressive.

All these students,

they have to help in growing,
and harvesting,

and preparing their own food.

Madelyn told me
that they're preparing

a whole Christmas dinner.

Ham, sweet potatoes,
collard greens.

Our son will starve there.

Tell me, Rick,
when's the last time

Marcus willingly
ate a vegetable?

What's the harm in trying?

You don't have to deal
with the meltdowns

over dinner time.

Why are you
so dead set against this?

You never consider
my feelings.

You're not the only one
that gets a vote here, Lena.

Marcus is my son, too.

I'm the one who's there.

Every day.

Look, that is so unfair.

I work very hard to give Marcus
everything he needs.

You have this pie in the sky
vision of who our son is,

and what he can do,

and I'm left to be the bad guy.

Lena, you are not the bad guy.

This is a chance for Marcus
to grow in ways

that we can't even imagine.

Ways that we can't give him.

Are you saying
that I'm holding him back?

No, no.

No, I'm saying that right now
his world is...

it's very small,

and all I'm asking

is that you give it
a chance to grow.

One chance.

Yeah.

Can you gather up
his bedtime items, please?

Yeah.

I dropped off Marcus's
suitcase with Madelyn.

So, what do we do now?

Are you hungry?

Yeah, let's get
something to eat.

So, when do you
have to get back?

I don't.

I'm here for the week.

You got a whole week off
from work?

You're acting as if
I never take a vacation day.

I'm working remotely.

He really misses you
when you're not around.

You know that
if it were up to me,

I would always be around, Lena.

But isn't it?

Isn't that up to you?

Hi, folks.

I'm Kayla.

Can I start you off
with some apple cider?

It's our holiday special.

Yeah, sure.

Thanks, Kayla.

Kayla, if you have it,

she loves whipped cream
and cinnamon in her cider.

Thanks.

Sure.

You remembered.

I remember a lot of things.

Like this is
your favorite song.

That's your favorite song.

Come on, you know you want
some of this.

♪ For the of king of angels ♪

♪ Oh, come let us adore him... ♪

All right...

here we are.

Thank you.

Wow.

This looks so good.

Mm, delicious.

Thank you so much.

Are you ready to order?

Yeah, I'll have
a cup of tomato soup,

and a side order of bacon,
well done,

two slices of toast
with the crusts cut off,

and a sugar cookie.

I'll have a burger, medium.

Thanks.

♪ Oh, come let us adore Him
Oh, come let us... ♪

This is amazing.

I'm glad you like it.

♪ ...Him, Christ the Lord... ♪

Rick Wilson.

Yeah?
Can it wait?

Okay.

No.

I understand.

Can you give me five minutes?

Duty calls.

Yeah.

Well, you go ahead.

I'm going to walk around,
do a little exploring.

You sure?

Mm-hmm.

All right.

Hey, hey, shh, shh!

Shh! Shh!

Ms. Wilson?

Is there something wrong?

No, no, not wrong.

It's just that everything
happened so quickly,

and I just wanted to make sure
that Marcus had his lunch.

Marcus is at lunch right now.

Our chef's an amazing cook.

Well, do you think you could
maybe give this to him?

He's a little particular
about what he eats.

I know it's hard
being separated,

but coming on campus
during assessment period

is not allowed.

How about I set up a Zoom call
for you and Marcus?

Saturday morning. 9:00 a.m.?

9:00 a.m..

Enjoy your day, Ms. Wilson.

See you Saturday...

on Zoom.

Thanks a lot.

Need a lift?

I thought you went
back to the guest house?

I figured I'd wait for you

to drop that sandwich off
at Hope Hills.

You knew?

We were married 15 years.

You're an open book.

Hop in.

What makes you think
I'm not enjoying my stroll?

Well, are you?

Well, only because
I didn't wear my walking shoes.

Are these orchids?

Yes.

My mother planted them
a few years ago.

She thought they'd be
a nice way

to greet the guests.

They can be
very temperamental.

She must have a green thumb.

She did.

Can I help you with anything?

I was hoping you might have
some pruning shears.

I should.

My granddaughter and I
are making wreaths.

Oh, how lovely.

Would you like to join us?

No, no, I wouldn't want
to impose.

The more the merrier.

Okay.

Now, Marcus, you don't
have to act in the play

if you'd rather watch,

but Blitzen went home
for the holidays,

so if you want the job,

the job is yours.

Yes!

Okay, you sit tight,

and I'll introduce you
to the gang

in a second, okay?

You're gonna be great.

Do you think Marcus
would like the red ribbon

or the silver one?

You're giving yours to Marcus?

Mm-hmm.

So these are actually
wishing wreaths.

When I gift a wreath,

I like to send a wish with it.

I find something unique
to the recipient

to finish it off.

Something special.

Like what?

It can be anything.

The magic of a wishing wreath

is if your intention is clear,

the inspiration
will come to you.

What makes a gift precious
isn't the gift itself

but the meaning behind it.

Do you have
any Christmas traditions?

My mother and I
would make pomanders.

What's a pomander?

It's a decoration
made with oranges and cloves,

and it fills the whole room

with the most wonderful
fragrance.

- Mm...
- Well, I'd love to learn,

if you don't mind
indulging a pomander novice?

Of course.

I'll pick up some oranges
at the market.

Nana... help?

Oh, baby...

You guys ready?

Hey, Mom?
Yeah?

When we get there,
can we pick up some pizza?

We ain't starved you yet.

You are a hungry child.

Let's try something new.

Let's be adventurous.
Let's try something new.

Hey...

Where are you all off to?

Dad...

we're going
to the Christmas Market.

Do you want to come?

Uh, you all go on.

I got a lot of work
to finish up.

It'll wait till morning.

Please, Dad?

There's gonna be funnel cake.

Funnel cake?

How can I say no
to funnel cake?

All right, let's go.

Whew!

Would you like some?

Oh, no, that's okay, thanks.

You sure?

Well, I mean,
maybe just a little.

We should take a picture.

It's a good idea.

These came out great.

They did.

Oh, my favorite is the last one.

I did wear that Santa hat.

I wore that Santa hat.

Looks great.

So, was Amanda okay

with you guys
spending Christmas apart?

Amanda and I, we're not
seeing each other anymore.

Oh.

I'm sorry.

No, no, no, don't be.

Um...

there were no hard feelings.

We both agreed
that it would be best

if we went our separate ways
before things got too serious.

Oh.

You guys were together
over two years.

I thought they were.

Dad!

Come try this.

I see it.

That's
a red-breasted nuthatch.

It's a pretty one.

Sometimes, he hangs upside down.

Nuthatch yoga?

Teenagers.

Hunched over her cell phone.

She's scrolling.

She's retreated to the safety
of her known world.

Is she all right?

I think it's just a little hard

being away from home
at Christmas.

She's having trouble
getting into the spirit.

Hmm.

Henry...

Would you go to the tree farm

and get a Christmas tree for us?

Mom, we don't have to have
a tree this year.

I'd like to have one.

For our guests.

All right.

One Douglas Fir,
coming right up.

Oh, and, um, Henry,

why don't you take Maya?

- Merry Christmas.
- Merry Christmas.

So you have a sister?

At Hope Hills Academy?

Her name is Morgan.

Does she like it?

She likes everything.

She's like
if sunshine was a person.

So what kind of tree
are you looking for?

The perfect one.

Of course.

To be honest,

I didn't think we were going
to put up a tree this year.

Why not?

My grandma passed away
this May.

It's my mom's
first Christmas without her.

Christmas was always
her favorite time of year.

She'd make it really special,

so my mom wasn't really
feeling up to celebrating

without her.

What changed?

I don't know,

but we're going to find her
the best tree of the bunch.

Hey, hey!

- Hey!
- Hi, Henry!

What are you guys doing here?

Well, my grandma asked me
to get her a tree.

Oh, this is Maya.

- Maya, this is Emma and Misho.
- Hey!

Maya's staying
at the guest house.

Are you coming
to the tree lighting?

I'm the Master of Ceremonies.

I didn't realize

there was
a Master of Ceremonies.

There isn't.

Mr. Walters just told him

he gets to throw the switch
this year.

It's the most important part.

It deserves a title.

Well, congrats, Man.

Nice to see it hasn't
gone to your head.

Oh, hey, you've gotta come.

It starts at 10:00
in the square, after the dance.

Uh, yeah,

maybe.

I'll check with my parents.

Cool.

Come on.

- See you guys.
- See ya.

See ya.

You should.

Hey, what about this one?

- Yeah, that looks great.
- Yeah.

Is it straight?

A little to the left.

Oh, it's beautiful!

We're back,

and I have just the thing
for that tree.

Someone order candy canes?

Mm-hmm.

Let's decorate,
let's decorate, come on!

Edible ornaments?

Yeah, you make them
out of birdseed,

so when Christmas is over,
you can hang them outside,

for the birds to enjoy.

They're Morgan's favorite.

We made them for years.

I'll have to try that.

Last one.

Now for the scary part.

One little bulb
refuses to play along,

and it's a bust.

I guess we should have
checked them out first

before we put them on the tree.

Yeah, that would have
been a plan.

All right, come on,
let's light 'er up.

Let's see what we got.

Moment of truth.

Three...

two...

one!

Yeah!

- Merry Christmas!
- It's great.

Nice. Really nice.

Now all we need
are some candy canes.

You chose a beautiful tree.

I found it in the attic.

Your Nana's star.

I thought you'd like
to put it on the tree.

Look how carefully
she wrapped it.

You know, this was passed down

from her great grandmother,

to her mother, to...

To you.

It's okay to miss her.

I do, too.

It was a lovely thought,
sweetheart.

Maybe next year.

Okay.

You all right?

Before we left,

I promised him
I would not leave his side,

the whole trip.

I can't even imagine

what must be going through
his head right now.

It was time, Lena.

He's a young man.

He needs independence.

You don't see what I see.

Every day,

the looks.

The whisperings
behind our backs.

How am I supposed
to send him out into that?

I'm just supposed to stand back

and watch the world
to break his heart?

I know it can be hard,

putting your faith into people,

when...

whey they let you down.

But if you give them a chance
to surprise you,

they just might.

Think about it, okay?

I think I'm getting
the hang of it.

I know what you're doing,

and it's very kind of you,

but you're here
with your family.

Don't you want to spend time
with them?

At Christmas time,

everyone's family.

- Marcus, you're in a play?
- How about that.

Marcus is our Blitzen.

Will we get to see it?

All families are invited
to the show

- on Christmas Eve.

Sweetheart, are you okay?

Looks like
you're making friends, buddy!

Pretty dog.

I'm afraid we have to go.

It's almost time
for his next class.

Oh, okay, um...

Well, we miss you, Marcus!

- Bye!
- Bye, buddy.

Can't wait to see you.

Bye, dog!

That's Lucy, Dad.

He's in a play.

Can you believe it?

Well, he's got his leading man
good looks from me.

He looked happy, though.

Didn't he?

Are these the pomanders?

Yes!

Would you like to make one?

If you don't have any plans,

I was hoping you could join us
for a family dinner tonight?

Morgan will be here.

Oh, well, we wouldn't
want to intrude.

Oh, no, no,
it's no intrusion at all.

We'd love for you
to meet Morgan,

and she can tell you more
about Hope Hills.

They let the students
meet with the parents

any time?

Morgan comes over once a week

unless she has something
special going on.

I think it's wonderful

that the family gets to be
together on the weekends.

The Guest House
was just in the planning stages

when Morgan started
at Hope Hills.

Mom and I jumped
at the chance to run it.

It was the perfect solution

to giving Morgan
the experiences she needs

while keeping the family close.

They just seem a little strict

not letting us see Marcus
over the weekend.

They do that with everybody.

It's just the staff's way

of making sure the candidate
is a good fit for the community.

Well, we'd love to join you.

Good,

'cause I already said yes
for all of us.

Check this out,

we got a Christmas dance
going on tomorrow night.

- Merry Christmas.
- Merry Christmas.

So, what do you say?

You want to go to a dance?

It might be fun.

Step right up!

Test your skill.

Come on, man, what do you say?

Three rings to win a prize.

What do I say?

I say let's toss 'em.

Right on.

Here you go.

Thank you.

I get three?

Yes, sir, three.

That's all I need.

Okay.

We'll see about that.

All right.

- Oh!
- Okay.

Whoa-ho-ho!

Okay.

All right, let's see
what we got.

Let's see what we got...

All right.

You are serious, huh?

About Christmas ring toss?

Yeah.

Wow!

Awesome!

Congratulations, guys.

Pick your prize.

I'll take this guy.

Yeah, of course.

Thanks.

Thank you.

Oh, Mom, feel how soft.

Okay, so... I need...

six medium and two large.

Oh, Rick! I can't forget Rick.

Um, make it three large.

Thanks.

There you go.

- Thank you.
- Thanks.

You and Rick seem to be

getting along together
quite well.

Oh, it's been nice
having him around.

It's not like that.

I didn't say anything.

But you were thinking it.

Aw, it's just seeing
you two together,

it feels like old times.

Rick is not seeing
Amanda anymore.

How do you feel about that?

I don't know.

I mean, we got divorced

because we couldn't figure out
how to work things out.

We were always fighting.

What's changed?

It's been five years.

Maybe the both of you

have learned
a little something by now.

It doesn't matter.

I don't have time
to consider "what if"s.

Too much stuff to do.

You do so much
for others, Lena.

It's okay to take
a little happiness for yourself

every once in a while.

For you.

Thank you very much.

Morgan, Mr. Wilson
is a photographer.

Oh, it's just a hobby, really.

Morgan is a very talented
photographer herself.

Oh, is that right?

Well, I'd love
to see your work sometime.

I'd be happy to show you.

Great.

Everybody have cider?

Yes.

What shall we toast to?

To Christmas.

To family.

And faith.

In yourself,
and in the people around you.

It can be...
very easy to lose sometimes,

and I'm just very grateful

to have people in my life
who remind me.

Hear, hear.

- Cheers.
- Cheers.

Cheers.

- Cheers, Mom.
- Cheers.

Morgan, our son, Marcus,

is at Hope Hills Academy
this weekend.

Here's a picture of him.

Have you seen Marcus, honey?

Yeah. He's my best friend.

Sweetie, he just got there
two days ago.

I know.

Uh, Morgan,
we're all really excited

for your play on Sunday.

Who are you in the play?

I'm the star.

Of course you are.

Oh, it's going to be
a busy house

with everyone arriving
for the play and festivities.

You'll meet lots more
Hope Hills families.

Movie. Movie. Movie.

All right.

A tree.
Christmas tree!

Ornaments. Um...

- Something... um...
- Okay.

Smile. Smiley guy.

Eggnog.

- Um... big... big...
- Christmas...

Uh, man!

Guy!

Turkey?

No, it's definitely a man.

Santa hat.

Smile...

Grinch! Grinch!

The Grinch!

How the Grinch
Stole Christmas!

- Yes?
- Yes!

- Oh!
- Yes! Yes! Yes!

- Yes!
- Oh!

That's a good Grinch.
That's a good Grinch.

That was so good.

- That was the Grinch.
- Impressive.

Okay, we're all tied up.
We're all tied up!

Dad, you're up.

Oh, okay.

If we get this, we win.

No pressure.

"No pressure," she says.
"No pressure," she says.

Ho, ho, ho, yeah.

Okay.

Morgan, whenever you're ready,

start the clock.

You're on the clock.

Uh, bells.

A song, a song, a song.

A triangle... hat...

Um, tree... "O Christmas Tree"?

Heart? A heart!

"My Heart Will Go On"!

That's not a Christmas song.

"Here Comes Santa Claus"!

Uh, I think you're
getting farther away.

Oh.

- Number, uh...
- Four.

Four. Four? Four!

20 seconds.

A bear.

A car?

Uh, a sheep!

Uh, Christmas sheep! Okay.

10 seconds.

Lamb, goat...

A ewe!

"All I Want for Christmas
is You"!

- Yes!

- How'd she get that!
- Yes!

Whoo! Whoa!

What?

Yes!

All right, well,

it's time for Christmas socks.

- There you go!
- Thank you!

Yes, here you go.

- Oh, that's so sweet.
- Socks for you...

- Thank you.

- Socks for you...
- Oh, thank you!

Here you go, Mama.
It's okay.

You did a great job.

You know that didn't look
like no ewe.

So soft!

Feel that, Morgan.

Hey, mom?

Can I go meet
with Misho and Emma

at the Christmas market?

Misho's running the booth
until 10:00.

Of course.
I'll leave the light on.

Do you want to go?

I... I don't...

Oh, well, yeah, of course,
you... you should go, honey.

Have fun.

Okay.

Morgan's favorite thing

was taking pictures
of her shoes.

She's been photographing them
since she was five.

Every pair of shoes
has a story.

Are those bunny slippers?

Yes.

Morgan named them.

Bunny and Rabbit.

That is funny.

Oh, here's her first
pair of clogs.

Oh, wow.

They're very bright.

Yes, and they went
with nothing,

but she loved them.

Wow, this...
this is fantastic.

Can I get a copy of these?

Of course.

I'll save them on a flash drive.

Great.

- Wow.
- Look at those.

Come on, Emma.

A little to the left.

Any farther left,

and I'll hit
the inflatable Santa, so...

Okay.

You're really good with her.

Morgan.

Well, she's amazing.

Thanks.

Thank you.

Do you ever feel...

lonely?

Like no one else
really understands

what it's like to be...

Be what?

Second.

Is that how you feel?

I'm used to it.

I love my brother.

I know that he has
to be the priority.

But it's hard.

Yeah.

Have you ever told anyone
you feel like that?

Your parents?

Are you kidding?

I feel guilty
for even thinking it.

They have more
to worry about.

The most important thing
is that Marcus...

is happy.

Would he be happy
knowing that you're not?

Hey, come on, Maya!

It's your turn!

Here, I can hold that for you.

Hope you can do
better than me.

- I'll try.
- Yeah, it won't be hard.

We'll see.

Okay, first try!

What?

How?

Good job. That was awesome.

Wow, these are nice.

I thought you'd like them.

Are they cashmere or wool?

Guess you gotta get that, huh?

Nope.

It can wait.

Well, look where
you two you ended up.

Hmm?

Mistletoe.

It is tradition.

Well, I'd...
I'd better go to sleep.

Good night.
I'll see you tomorrow.

Good night.

I think
my ornament's lopsided.

The birds don't mind.

I had fun last night.

Thanks for inviting me.

Anytime.

Hey. Come on.

What are we doing?

What've you got there?

Just what I was looking for.

I was upset.

That we had to come here
for Christmas.

I worked really hard
to be selected for that recital,

and it hurt that it wasn't even
a consideration.

- Maya...
- Please, Mom.

Just let me say this.

I know we all have
to sacrifice for Marcus.

I'm okay with that.

I love him.

I really do...

...but... but sometimes,
I feel like an afterthought.

How long have you
been feeling like this?

A while.

I'm so sorry, Maya.

I just... I never
want you to feel

like you don't have
a voice in this family,

because you do.

But how can I ask
for your attention

when Marcus needs it more?

Oh...

sweetie...

listen to me.

I will always
have time for you,

and I probably
don't say this to you enough,

but I'm so proud of you.

I'm so very proud of you.

And I love you so much.

Oh...

Hey.

- Hey.
- Where have you been?

I had to run a quick errand.

I, uh, hope
you two lovely ladies

are ready
for a Christmas dance.

It's really pretty.

Wow, that's a lovely necklace.

Oh, thank you.
It was a gift from my husband.

He had good taste.

He married me, didn't he?

You look beautiful,
by the way.

You clean up
pretty nice yourself.

She isn't seeing anyone...

if you were curious.

Oh?

This hasn't been
an easy few years for Lena.

She's had the weight
of the world on her shoulders.

She likes it that way.

No... she doesn't.

Well, aren't you gonna
ask her to dance?

Say "Jingle Bells!"

Jingle bells!

Would you like to dance?

Go, Mom.

If you promise
not to step on my toes.

I can do that.

I owe you an apology.

For what?

For all the times

when I haven't
made this trip very easy.

I know you only want
the best for Marcus.

I do.

And you do, too.

You were right.
I haven't always been around,

but I did what
I knew how to do, Lena,

and that's make sure

that you and Marcus and Maya
would always have security.

We both sacrificed.

And I'd do it again.

You know, I think...

I think it's time

we stopped holding the past
against each other.

It's strange
to think of you as my past.

When I thought about my future,
you were always in it.

I think it's great
she made a new friend.

Yeah.

Does she have to sit
so close to him?

Easy there, papa bear.

You know what
all this reminds me of?

Our first Christmas together.

Picking you up for
the Merritsville Snow Ball.

I was so nervous that night.

You were?

But when you opened that door
and you smiled at me...

all the nerves just...
just disappeared.

You had a red bow in your hair,

and your perfume
smelled like lilacs.

You remember all that?

Why wouldn't I?

Some of the happiest
moments of my life.

But I know we had some...

hard times between us, but...

I never stopped
loving you, Lena.

There he goes again.

This is the worst
possible time.

You'll be home
by Christmas Eve.

I need to be here now,
with the family,

while I work things out
for Marcus.

I thought the ex-wife
takes care of that.

Can you catch the 8:00 a.m.?

I'll have to leave here
at 4:00.

Carol can book it.

I never asked where you lived.

Burketsville.

That's not far from here.

Hmm...

Henry!

It's time!

Let's go.

Maya, do you want
to do the honors?

Yeah, sure.

- Everything okay?
- Yeah.

Hey, can I get
everyone's attention, please?

It's time. You ready?

Five...

four...

three...

two...

one!

There we go.

We need to talk.

They want me in Chicago
by noon tomorrow.

Come on, Rick.

Look, I-I know.

I'm sorry.

I did everything
I could think of

to get out of it.

Did you?

I'll be back
for Christmas Eve.

Look, I'm really sorry.

I'd stay if I could.

You gotta believe me.

The problem is
I was starting to.

It's beautiful.

I'm glad you think so.

It's for you.

Me?

I know how hard it can be...

that first Christmas you lose
someone you love dearly.

We ran this place together
for years.

I'm just so used
to seeing her every day.

Those we love
never really leave us,

as long as
we keep them right here.

Thank you.

What's your ETA?

My flight lands in an hour.

I'll call you
as soon as I land.

Can you send the file?

Rick? Are you still there?

I'm here.

It should be in your inbox.

Great.

See you when you get here.

We'll send a car.

You know, I don't know

why I thought
it would be any different...

that for once, we would be
on the same page.

A team.

You can't
get upset at yourself

for putting your faith
in someone you love.

I think it's time to go home.

Don't.

Don't make this decision
based on Rick.

It's not about him.

This whole thing
was his idea, Mom.

If he can't even
see it through,

why should I?

Hello?

Where is he?
Okay, I'll be right there.

Sweetheart, what's the matter?

It's Marcus.

Ms. Wilson!

Is Marcus okay?

Your son is fine.

It's just a scrape.

It's protocol
to call parents

even if a band-aid
can cover the situation.

I didn't mean to worry you.

This way.

You know,
Marcus loved the water.

I taught him how to swim
almost as soon as he could walk.

One day, when Marcus was seven,

Maya was four,

we went down
to the neighborhood pool.

Maya put her bathing suit
on backwards,

and I turned away
to deal with that,

and while I wasn't looking,

a group of boys,

boys Marcus thought
were his friends,

surrounded him
and held his head underwater.

Maya started screaming.

She saw it all happening
over my shoulder.

I...

I jumped in,
I pulled him to the surface...

I got to him just in time.

And that day,

I swore I would never leave him
out of my sight again...

not out of fear
of what he would do to himself,

but for fear of what
others would do to him.

We understand if you want
to take Marcus home...

but you should know
Marcus is doing beautifully.

He's kind, he's enthusiastic,

he... adapts quickly.

It's obvious you've raised
a remarkable young man,

and the staff here

unanimously agrees to welcome
Marcus to the program.

Marcus has a spot here,

if that's what you decide.

Oh...

First door on your right.

Marcus...

Oh.

Oh, my god.

What happened, sweetheart?

Well, we were
rehearsing for the play,

and he slipped
and skinned his knee.

Are you okay?

Just a little accident.

Yeah? Let's get this...

Well?

How does it look?

It's perfect.

What are you doing here?

I got the same call as you.

What happened to Chicago?

I told Chicago
they were going to have

to get along without me.

I was needed somewhere else.

That could have been
a disaster.

But... it wasn't.

But what if he hit his head,

or got confused,

or he was scared
in this new place...

Lena, none of that happened.

I gave them a chance.

It's too much, Rick.

Lena, why are you so determined
to see this fail?

I'm trying to protect him.

I'm his mother.

I'm not going to see him
get hurt.

I'm sorry, but once
Christmas is over,

I'm taking him home.

Lena, I don't want to keep
having the same fight.

Making the same mistakes.

Do you?

So what do we do?

Put on our Sunday best,

and go watch our son in a play.

I hear he steals the show.

I only want
what's best for him.

It's all I've ever wanted.

You are a wonderful,
devoted mother.

For 18 years,
you worked miracles.

Marcus's progress
is your victory, Lena.

You've done it.

Now let me help.

And you're not alone.

Uh, Beth!

Just the person
we've been looking for.

Morgan's photos,

they are way too special

to be living on
some flash drive.

They deserve to be seen.

A star for a star.

Oh!

That's amazing.

Morgan's going to be
over the moon.

Thank you!

Aw, Merry Christmas.

Merry Christmas.

Hey, there's Bunny and Rabbit!

They made it.

They made it in!

That's beautiful!

Thank you.

Hope she likes it.

Oh, she's going to love it.

Great.

She better like it.

Josiah, Justine.

This is Rick and Lena,

and they're here
for the weekend.

Josiah, nice to meet you.

Ava, I'd like
to introduce you to Maya.

Maya's brother is in the play.

Oh, really? Mine is, too.
Brian's my twin.

The first thing
he'll do tonight

is open my locket
to check if we're still there.

So sweet.

I'm sure Henry told you,

but the Hope Hills siblings
are pretty close.

I'm afraid
you're stuck with us now.

That doesn't sound so bad.

I'll add you
to the group chat.

Thank you.

Welcome.

Look.

They even got Marcus
on the cast list.

- Is that right?
- Yeah.

Sure are a lot of people.

Yeah, glad we got tickets.

I'm not sure
how Marcus is going to do

with all these eyes on him.

Oh, I think
he just might surprise you.

I'll be right back.

Where are you going?

I just need to see.

I gotta be sure.

Save me a seat?

All right.

Big ears.

Guys, antlers...

Everybody, just calm down
and get ready.

Here we go.

Hey.

Everything's going to be okay.

Okay?

I'm gonna be up there, too.

You're gonna do fine.
It's gonna be fun.

You're gonna do great.

Where's Mom?

She's going to miss
the opening.

Aw, she'll be here.

You made it.

Our little guy ready to go?

Everything alright?

Yes.

Yes, it is.

'Twas the night
before Christmas,

and all through the house,

not a creature
was stirring,

not even a mouse.

The children were nestled
all snug in their beds

as visions of sugar-plums
danced in their heads.

Ma in her 'kerchief
and Pa in his cap

had just settled down
for a long winter's nap,

when out on the lawn,
there arose such a clatter,

they sprang from their chairs
to see what was the matter...

...when what to their
wondering eyes did appear

but Santa's red sleigh
and six flying reindeer!

Now, Dasher! Now, Dancer!

Now, Prancer and Vixen!

On, Comet! On, Cupid!

On, Donner and Blitzen!

Whoo!

Hey!

Um, can I get your autograph?

You're fabulous.

I love you.

Oh, I'm so proud of you.

You were wonderful.

Did you have fun?

What would you think about...

sticking around here
a little longer?

I could make
space curtains for your room,

just like at home.

I love you
to the moon and back.

Hey, way to go, Bud!

Oh! You were amazing.

You brought
the house down, bro!

Yes, you did!

Just where did you learn
all that stage presence from?

I made this for you.

So, the feather symbolizes
that...

you'll fly high,

and be strong.

You want me to live here, too.

Come here.

It's going to be hard for them
to say goodbye to each other.

Yeah, well,
maybe they don't have to.

Hope Hills, they, uh...

they need
a director of marketing.

I talked to Madelyn.

If I took the job,
I could see Marcus every day,

or as often
as he'd want to see me.

So... you want to...
you want to move here?

No. No, no.

I want... us to move here.

We could be here together,
if you think it would work.

Look, um...

I have no idea what
the future will bring, Lena...

but I definitely know
I want you in it.

Whatcha see, Nana?

When did this happen?

Oh, they're looking at us.

Hey, Maya...

Why don't you play us a song?

Any requests?

Uh, how about "It Came
Upon the Midnight Clear"?

Hey, buddy.

♪ It came
upon the midnight clear ♪

♪ To touch their harps of gold ♪

♪ Peace on the Earth ♪

♪ Good will to men ♪

♪ From heaven's
all-gracious King ♪

♪ The world
in solemn stillness lay ♪

♪ To hear the angels sing ♪

♪ Christmastime
is the very best time ♪

♪ To take my baby dancing ♪

♪ Sing along, now ♪

♪ Let the church bells ring ♪

♪ Ding-dong sing along do ♪

♪ Kissing by the mistletoe ♪

♪ Covered by the amber glow ♪

♪ Underneath
the sugarplum sky ♪

♪ Sing along, now ♪

♪ Let the church bells ring ♪

♪ Ding-ding sing along do ♪

♪ We all need
somebody to hold... ♪