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Where were the first
Christmas cards printed?

Where's...
Was it New Zealand?

Hmm. Terrance?

Terrance, we only have a minute.
Where are you?

Sorry.

Those two, they've been trying
to steal our crown

from the past two years,
but it's gonna take

a Christmas miracle, Shavonna.

Uh... Babe.

We need to talk.

What's up?

You want to talk about
the answer?

No. No.

London.

London! Christmas!
London...

-No, no.
-London.

Say, hey, babe,
that's not what I'm saying.

I'm moving to London.

Outside.

London?

Yeah.

I mean, I know I've been going
back and forth for the board,

but today they finally made
a counter-offer.

Must've been good.

Damn good.

I'm gonna do it though.

I'm gonna head up their
new offices in London.

That's fantastic.

Hmm-hm.

I'm really proud of you, babe.

Thank you.

It's about time they
recognize your brilliance.

Yeah.

Six months apart is...

long time.

Yeah, but, um...

I mean, we can manage.

I mean, come on.

We've done a whole summer
apart before. I mean...

Yeah, but that's when you went
to your aunt in Dallas,

we were eight and not a couple.

True.

Okay, what about the spring?

I mean, I hear Janet will be
on tour. Control...

Don't bring Janet into this.

This is going to be hard.

I mean, that's, that's our
busiest time of the year...

All right, all right.

Summer then?

You'll come visit me now, right?

I don't know.

I just got this new position.

With our summer releases,
campaigns,

all eyes are on Ryse Publishing.

So...

And you know Sabrina has been
pulling me left and right...

I-I know. I know.

This new position is
what's gonna get me closer

to my imprint, you know?

-All of this is for...
-The dream. The dream.

-I, I know. I got it.
-The dream.

-Mm-hm.
-You're right.

What do I always tell you?

Oh.

If God brought me to it,
he equipped me to do it.

That's right.

So, this is it for us.

Yeah.

You're doin' it, Noe.

We're doin' it.

Well, ladies and gentlemen,
I'm Chara Jackson,

and this has been our interview
with one of Atlanta's

rising stars in the world
of publishing, Noelle Tucker.

So, final word.

What is one thing that you would
tell our audience

about setting goals
and fulfilling them?

-Wow.
-Daddy.

I guess I'd say
don't give up on them.

Don't give up on you.

You're gonna have obstacles
and distractions,

but you also have everything
that you need to get through it.

And, when things just
get a little crazy,

you have to duck
and dodge a lil..

My bad, girl!
We just were... Oh.

Hi.

We're just gonna step out
and make sure...

-Get out!
-Oh! Sorry. Bye.

It's not gonna be on camera,
is it?

Eh, no.

Sandra, you knew this was
a big deal.

I've been trying to get
an interview with

Atlanta's Rising Star
for months.

If our newest client hadn't
tweeted about me,

I probably still be on the
wait list.

I know, and look, I kept David
Jr. quiet as long as could.

Well, maybe next time if you
could take away any weapons,

I'd really appreciate it.

Next time?

Hopefully you'll be doin'
interviews in your own home.

Oh, that was subtle way of
telling me

my stay is long overdue.

No, of course not.
We love having you here.

-You family.
-Right, right!

Come on, now.

Our home is your home.
You know that?

Is it safe to come
to the kitchen now?

-Ooh.
-Walk through my own home?

Yes, babe.
Good morning.

-Mmm. No, not today.
-You want some breakfast.

I got to get to the office
early, but it looks great.

-You look great.
-Whoa!

-Good morning. David. Hi.
-Oh my!

My interview went really well,
thank you for asking.

Yeah. Until, David Jr. hit her
on the side of head with a toy.

That's my guy! Oh!

So, Noelle, uh,
my co-worker Hermin...

Mm-mm. No. No.

You don't even know
what I was gonna say.

Is single. Saw a picture of me
on your desk,

and wants to take me out
for dinner.

Okay, so, you know exactly
what I was gonna say,

but he could be the one.

Look, you guys have
so much in common.

Ah-huh. Like what?

So, he has books,
you have books.

He knows how to read, I'm
guessin' you know how to read.

Look, this could be a match
made in heaven.

-Indeed.
-D-d-don't "indeed" me, okay?

Look, you're not putting in the
effort and somebody around here

has to marry you off.

And get me up out of your house?

Babe, I-I didn't, I didn't say
it this time, she did.

-You-you know...
-I know, babe. I know.

-You did good.
-Thank you.

You know,
I don't remember there being

any complaints
after I moved into help

my sister after her surgery.

All that, you could go out
and earn a living

to actually afford this house.

And I thought that you had
moved in because

they gentrified
your neighborhood.

Yeah. And then they turned your
little studio into a condo,

and they hiked up the rent,
and then I remember you sayin',

"I wish they would," before you
moved into Casa Della Turner.

-That's what--
-Okay, you two.

'Cause she's bringin' up
old stuff...

Hey, babe. It's okay.

-I know. I know.
-She messed with me.

You know what?

Don't even worry. I'm up for
another promotion anyway.

-Hm.
-Mm-hm.

And I almost have enough
for my own place.

So I'll be out of your little
mansion soon enough, Scrooge.

There is no such
thing as a little mansion.

I love you...

I'mma deal with
y'all two later.

Okay.

All shook up.

Keep-keep-keep talkin' to me.

-Hey!
-Hey.

How did the interview go?

Well, surprisingly... great.

Who would've thought that I'd be
that chick on the rise?

Uh, me. I'm proud of you.

Well, thank you
so much for staying up late

and helping me prepare for it.

You know I always got your back.

Look, I was callin' to check in
and let you know that

a brother's coming back
to States for Christmas.

Hold on, wait.

What? That's great.

You know I gotta see my girl.

Well, hey.
Your girl wants to be seen.

I missed you for Thanksgiving.

When do you get here?
Soon.

I got a few more things
to wrap up over here, but, um,

I'll call you
when I have more deets.

Okay. Cool.
I'm gonna call you later, okay?

-All right.
-Bye.

Eh, hello?

Shh! Shh! Shh! Don't! Shh!

Uh, so, you got all of this
at the farmers' market?

-I did.
-So then that chicken sausage.

-But it smells like pork?
-Really?

-Science.
-Hm...

She made me do it. Love you!

You deal with all of that.
Yep, yep, yep.

Oh!

-You two are ridiculous!
-No, you are.

I can't believe you let that man
slip through your hands.

I didn't let the man get away!
He just...

It was a mutual decision.

To let go of the love
of your life?

To let go of my best friend,

so he can pursue
his highest level of bliss.

Boo!

I gotta go.

-Good morning.
-Good morning.

Good morning, Maxine.
Thank you.

Ah-huh. They finally called!

Okay, it's the puck.
You did that today.

Young man?
I know that better be a client.

Yes.

I read your notes
three times,

and still doesn't make sense.

So you want me to cut
a whole chapter?

Yeah. Because it's redundant.

It's like, you're repeating
beats to fill pages.

-I was drivin' a point home.
-Mm-hm.

You did drive a point home
in chapter six.

Chapter six, it was fresh
and intriguing.

Oh. So you found it intriguing.

Do tell, young lady. Do tell.

Well, people love
the idea of Carla

falling in love.

They love that cat and mouse
game between her and Eugene.

But it really slows down
in chapter seven.

You know, it's, it's time for
him to man up, stake his claim.

Get his woman. Dragging on
so long makes it more about him

than her.

Wow, you really get him.

Mm. I really think I get her.

And we already have two books.
So, trust me.

No, I do. I promise.

Hey, uh...

Noelle, so...

Oh, hi. Deliveries all go
to the receptionist, please.

Uh, yeah, but this is
a special delivery.

Oh, my God! Terry!

Oh!

Mmm-mm!

I thought you were gonna
come next week.

You know, I thought I'd drop in
and surprise everyone.

Mm-hm.

-Besides, I brought some gifts.
-Uh-uh.

Oh, my gosh! These are your
mama's sweet potato cookies?

-You already know.
-Oh, my God! You're awful!

You know I'm on my holiday diet.

For what? Besides, since when do
you turn down free food?

Listen, I had to get me your
plate at your house,

and in the neighbors house.

Yeah,
but why do you...

Oh, I am so, so sorry!

Terrance,
this is Vincent Downing.

Author of New York Times
bestselling series

Close Are The Waves.

Yeah, yeah. Wow, man.

-Nice to meet you.
-Nice to meet you too, bruh.

Uh, thanks for helping my girl
get that interview...

Ah. No problem.

My mom loves your books, bruh.

-His momloves my books.
-Ah-huh.

She's our target audience.

And you will love it too
once your take my notes.

Thanks.

Nice meeting you too, man.

-And, you too. All right.
-All right.

-I'll see you later.
-Yeah.

Okay. Sit, sit, sit!

Tell me. Tell me.

How was London?
How was your flight?

-How was the presentation?
-Oh, come on.

You know your boy killed it.

Shoot! I could start
two tech companies

with all the juice in that room.

But I'm telling you,
this new app we're developing,

it's gonna be a game changer.

Okay. I know it will.

-I'm so proud of you!
-Thank you.

So, what's up?

How's-how's the fam?
How's mom?

Well, you know,
Sandra and Dave, they're great.

But not really enjoying
my company.

And mama's about to go
on her annual Christmas cruise

with my auntie, without us.

So she's... good.

Yeah, mom's gettin' her
groove back.

Okay, no.
We don't talk about that.

So, um, how about you?

What's new?

Reading the next
great American novel,

or helpin' to write it?

Oh. Mm-mm.

These, these are all Vincent's.

I'm just his support system.

But seeing you is the
"pick me up" that I needed.

I'm glad I could put a smile
on your face.

I missed you, Noe.

Uh...

Sorry, one sec.

Oh. Yeah, yeah.

Um, look, I-I know you're busy.

So, I'm gonna get outta here,
but, um,

I just wanted to stop by and see
what you were doin' tonight.

Mm, I don't have any plans.

Wait. Are you trying to

take me to the Kris Kringle
Karaoke thing?

Uh, no. No, no, no. Because
once your hit that stage,

there will be nothin' silent
or holy about that night.

Excuse you!

Let's do dinner.

-Say 8:00?
-Yeah.

-That sounds great.
-All right.

We got a lot
of catchin' up to do.

-Yeah, we do.
-Yeah.

It's so good to see you.

I'll text you the deets later.

-Sounds good.
-All right.

Thank you for all my gifts,
my goodies.

Oh, come on now. Anytime.

You're just trying to
get me thick.

Ah, listen, you already
got that down thick.

-I'll see you later.
-Bye.

All right.

Whoever that was, sign him.
He is fine.

His picture alone will have
books flying off the shelves.

That's just Terrance.

Best friend turned ex
turned best friend again?

He looks better than
you described.

London was definitely
good to him. Huh.

Well, he brought me some
of his mama's famous cookies.

Ah, I still have to get into
my designer couture dress

for my annual holiday party.

-No, thank you.
-Right.

Noelle,
I can't thank you enough

for helping to coordinate my
party this year.

I know it's not a part of your
job description, but...

Are you kidding me?
To have the who's who

of the publishing world
along with Atlanta's most

successful black men and women
all under one roof...

Yes, please!
I am so, so honored that you

selected me to help you
this year.

Well, you know how I like to
nurture our company's

biggest and brightest.

And you were the only one in
town with no Christmas plan, so.

Win-win for all.

Right.

Yes, ma'am.
I'll take what I can. Um...

Sabrina.

This party is going to be epic!

-The guest list is crazy.
-Hm.

I also heard, uh, Richard
from Davenrow and Dale Law

will be there.

So? Why are you looking at...

Don't think I didn't notice
the chemistry between you two.

Especially at last month's
publisher's retreat. Okay?

You looked like you were
looking for little bit

more than legal advice.

I've known Richard forever.

His firm used to rep me
back in the day.

And he just had a fresh divorce.

Not my idea of a
romantic prospect.

He's been divorced
for two years.

I do my research.

My dear, you are focused
on the wrong kind of hook-up.

This is gonna be social.

But I've invited some of the
hottest up-and-coming writers.

A room full of
potential acquisitions.

Perfect mixture,
new money, old money.

And most importantly, my money.

-And your friends.
-Oh. Right.

-Ah-huh.
-Them too.

So, do you want to get together
and review the guest list

again tonight?

Mm-mm. I can't.

I have plans.

Well, I hope it's a date
with that fine Terrance.

Hm. We're just friends.

All I know is,

any man who wants
to be just friends...

doesn't stop by
when he can just call.

It is not a date,
Sabrina.

Okay.

Or is it?

Okay, so, you got decide
if you want to look like

chestnuts roasting
on an open fire, or mistletoe.

What you feelin'?

-Chestnuts? Mistletoe?
-God!

This is totally a date.
Look at me. I'm so nervous.

-I can't stop shaking.
-Why you nervous?

I mean, yeah, it's the first
time you've seen each other

in almost a year,
but he's your buddy.

-Your pal. Your friend.
-Yeah. I don't know, Sandra.

Okay? Everything was fine...
At least I thought

everything was fine.

I'm thriving, he's thriving.
You know? But then,

I saw him, and a whole bunch of
feelings that I had...

-Did he smell good?
-So good.

Oh! Girl, that'd do it.

Oh. It's just that he has his
whole new swag. You know?

And then he asked me to
go to dinner with him tonight.

I swear I heard something
in his voice.

What if he asked me to go back
to London with him again?

I say, don't make the same
mistake twice.

What am I gonna do, mare?

Now, if you go with mistletoe,
you can put this hair here,

and then you already ready
for the come in.

You know what I'm sayin'?
You know what I'm sayin...

Girl!

-Hi.
-Hi.

Wow. You, ah, look amazing.

Oh. I do? Thank you.

Thanks for coming.

-Thanks for inviting me.
-No problem.

Thanks for coming.

You don't look too bad yourself.

Thank you.

Well, before we order, I--

Actually, before you go on, can
I just say something real fast?

-Okay, uh...
-Oh, hi. I'm so sorry.

We're not ready to order yet.
Thank you.

No. No, she's not the waitress.

Noelle, this is my girlfriend.

Hi.

-Girlfriend?
-Yeah.

You know, fun fact,
her name is Noelle too.

She goes by Elle.

Yeah. That's really crazy.

-I'm a hugger.
-Okay!

It's so nice to finally
meet you.

I've heard so much about you.

I hope you don't mind me
crashing your little reunion.

-Oh, i-i-it's cool. Right, Noe?
-Mm-hm.

It's totally cool.
Don't be silly.

Sit!

-It's hot.
-Ooh! Yeah.

Everything all right?
Yeah.

I love your dress.
She's so pretty, babe.

Yeah.

-No, he didn't!
-He did.

How does she look?

-I don't know. Ghastly.
-Ooh! That pretty, huh?

What did I do to deserve this?

I've been a good girl all year!

Well, don't throw in
the towel yet.

Santa may still be
on your side.

This could be a fling
or something. You don't know.

Just go and enjoy dinner.
It won't be that bad.

Please.

You live 30 minutes
from each other all this time,

but had to move half way
across the world...

to find each other.

-Crazy, right?
-So crazy.

Would you believe
it took him an entire month

to call me after the party?

Playin' hard to get.

But I had no choice
but to say yes,

because who could say no
to a Janet Jackson concert?

I'm sorry. Excuse me.

Did you say
Janet Jackson?

You love Janet Jackson too?
She is my favorite.

Have you ever seen her
perform live?

No, but I'm a huge fan.
I mean, huge, huge!

You know? I came close once.

-I guess I missed my chance.
-That's awful.

Mm-hm. Yeah. My best
friend took someone else.

Oh, that's rude.

I'd like to think so.

What are your thoughts,
Terrance?

Uh... I mean, no need in
dwelling in the past, right?

I mean, where's the Christmas
spirit in that, Noelle?

-So, Elle, are you still in PR?
-Oh, no.

I'm an influencer now.

I felt like I wanted me to do

somethin' different
with my life.

Influencer, em, Insta-model?

-Come on, Noe.
-Oh.

That's one aspect of it,
but it's so much more.

I'm also an author.

I like to encourage,
inspire women to get

more out of their life
that they're livin'.

-So you're a life coach, too?
-Mm-hm.

-Influencer, life coach. Huh.
-Mm-hm.

-Lucrative?
-Actually, yeah.

I mean, Elle has thousands
of followers.

She's just shy of a million.

Babe, enough about me.

So, Terrance tells me
you're also an editor.

Mm-hm. Senior editor
at Ryse Publishing.

Ryse?

I love them.

I self-published my first book,

but I'm familiar
with the company.

-Mm.
-Yeah. Maybe you've heard of it.

The Art Of The Elevation,
Unlock and Unleash.

Hmm? No.

I don't think so.

Never heard of it.

-Huh.
-Uh-uh, you will.

Seein' it's about
to be a best-seller.

-Babe!
-Well, is that right?

That's cute. Oh.

You're in luck.

I have a copy just for you.

Oh.

Wow!

You walk around with autographed
copies of your book?

For my man's best-friend,
of course.

I mean, really, you're the only
thing he talks about.

To be honest,
I'd probably be jealous

if you weren't like his sister.

-I hate her.
-Rightfully so.

She goes by Elle.
Oh, her name is Noelle.

He's literally dating me,
but not.

It don't take a degree
in psychology to see

how crazy this is.

Eh, he's clearly still
in love with you.

No, he's not.

It's a coincidence.

This is crazy.

Like "TV movie thriller" crazy.

It's over.

It's official. He's moved on.

It was official when you
broke up with him last year.

That was mutual.

So you did the right thing?

I thought so.

And I saw them together...

I just thought that
when the time was right,

when both of our
careers settled...

That he was ready then?

You took a gamble, sis.

I know.

I lost my, my man
and my best friend.

This is gonna be the
worst Christmas ever!

Nah.

Not until she has a ring
on her finger,

or a baby in the oven,
I say you fight.

You want him back?

Then go for it.

She can't out-Noelle you.

You're the real Noelle.
The OG Noelle.

The first Neolle.

It's time to put No-Elle
in her place.

Maybe you're right.

Maybe him dating this fake
Noelle is a call for help.

SOS. You heard?

I say, we stuff-up a chimney,

and send her packin'
on a reindeer.

-You're bad.
-I know!

They mess with my
baby sister.

I can't have that. Come here.

Mmm.

Now go get your man back.

What is she talkin' about?

So...

how was your dinner
with Terrance?

-Ah, fine.
-Oh.

Until he introduced me
to his new girlfriend.

Oh. From London?
Was she white?

No.

-She was a Noelle.
-You lost me.

He's dating this new chick
named Elle Carter... Carper--

W-wait. Elle Carver.
The Elle Carver?

-I love her.
-Oh.

-Her book changed my life.
-Really?

Well, it isn't the Bible,
but the way she encourages women

to unlock and unleash...

Definitely the edge I needed to

buy Miller And House
Publishing out.

That's the gamble
that still pays.

Wow. I guess
she's the real deal.

"Recalibrate your mind to
focus more on your I cans

and I wills,
rather than your I thinks

and I wishes."

Excuse me?

It's in the book.

Right. Just started glancing
over it this morning.

Oh, it's a hit.

Was on several
book club lists.

She's an international brand.
And this is just the beginning.

She's on the verge
of becoming a young Oprah

and Iyanla all in one.

I know she's from here,
relocated to London,

but if she did something
States side...

she'd dominate the
self-help market.

-Dominate? Really?
-Yeah.

Well, she did say something
about publishing a second book,

and hiring an actual publishing
house to help her.

Hm.

Think I could bring her in?

Oh, I'm sure she's meeting
with every major pub--

Every major? We are standing
in every major.

And you are every woman!

And Ryse...

needs women like her.

Mm. I got chills.

Noelle, this could be
the Christmas miracle

you've been waiting for.

You bring her on and I guarantee
you the board will be running

to give you your own imprint.

We sign her before
my big Christmas party,

that promotion's
as good as yours.

♪ This is why you can't go
Christmas caroling with us ♪♪

Come on, baby. Let me, let me
put the sauce on it.

-Mm-mm.
-Y'all-y'all need me.

-Babe...
-You-you need me to lead this.

Just sing the song
like everybody's sing...

Wait a minute! Okay!

Yep! That's the one.

Huh!
What? Aahh!

Yep! That's the one!

-What's-what's the one?
-Tsk.

That's my sister right there.

Isn't your son somewhere crying?

Isn't that your biological
clock ticking?

-David!
-It's loud.

She started it.
Why are you so dolled up?

Ah... Do you have a date?

Calm down.

It's not a date... yet.

This is for Terrance.

Doesn't he have
a hot new girlfriend?

You know I tell him everything.

But nobody said "hot."

Why are you dressed up
for him?

She's winnin' him back.

This girl is gonna have
that man in her stocking

by Christmas Eve.

-Leave it alone.
-I had him first.

She has him now.
Leave it alone.

-Why? He's mine.
-He doesn't seem to know it.

Hence, the dress.

So you're going
to manipulate him

to falling back in love
with you?

No. I've had him since jungle
gyms and hopscotch, so...

And she's had his heart
since you dropped him,

what, this time last year.

It was a mutual break, David!

-It's just a dress.
-It's just a dress.

-She's the worst.
-She's so the worst.

I thought she was a black
entrepreneur on the rise

like yourself, and don't
you have the same name?

Isn't it, what... Just like some
self-destruction type stuff.

Ignore him.

You look amazing.

Maybe David's right.

-What am I doing?
-Wait.

Can you say that again
but slower?

-I want to record it.
-Stop.

The real question is,
what do you want?

-Oh, hey.
-Wow!

Uh, I'm sorry. I-I mean...

Uh...

Wow!

-Thank you.
-No, thank you.

Thanks.
Uh, see the dress works.

Yes, ma'am.

So, what's the occasion?

Nothing. I just felt like,
um, you know, just...

Wait. Do we have an appointment
that I missed?

Oh. No. I just, stopping by
to see if you read

my most recent draft.

Oh. Yes. I started it.

Not done yet.

But it's in really,
really good shape.

Thank you.

You know, I couldn't have did it
without you.

Your notes and your thoughts
on Eugene

really opened this thing up
for me.

Well, good.

You know, him hiding behind
his job and emotions

instead of pursuing Carla

was the wake up call
I needed.

Hm. Right?
That's wonderful.

Noelle...

I'd like to take you out.

Um...

Out?

Vincent.

Thank you.
I'm, I'm very flattered.

But you're my client. You know?
Sabrina would never approve.

She's your boss,
not your mama.

I work here.

Excuse me.

-Oh. Sorry.
-Hm.

So...

You're saying no
because I'm a client?

Yes.

N-no.

Wait. Wait. No. Yes.

I just don't think
it's a good idea.

To go to a little dinner?

A movie?

Cup of coffee?

I just think that we should keep
things professional

between these four walls.

-Is that cool?
-Yeah. Cool.

Whatever you want, Noelle.

Looks like I have a lot of
writing to do anyway, right?

Yeah.

Oh.

I'm so sorry.

Do you think that we can
pick this up tomorrow?

Oh, yeah.

Tomorrow. Sure. Yeah.

-Thank you so much for coming.
-Hey, no problem.

-I'll talk to you...
-Tomorrow.

-Tomorrow. Yeah.
-Yes.

Yeah.

Hey.

Uh, yeah.

It's good to hear from you too.

I just want you to know
that I heard you,

and I'm willing to try.

I really want my
best friend back.

Do you think that you can come
over to the office

this afternoon so we can talk
some more about it?

I'm doing a taste test for
Sabrina's annual Christmas party

and Chef Jake is gonna be here
in the afternoon,

so we could...

Great!

Great. It's great. Yeah.

Cool. See you soon.

Mmm.

Chef Jake...

this is amazing.

That's coconut cobbler bite.
Wow!

Thank you.
I appreciate that.

It normally does leave
the ladies with a smile.

But, uh, how's it for you,
my man?

-It's all right.
-Okay.

Well, maybe I'll do better
when you guys hire me

to cater your wedding.

Oh! Well, actually, we're, um...

Mm-mm.

We're not together.

I'm single.

Very single. And open.

I don't... Not open, as in,
the bites, Chef Jake.

Wait, wait.
You single in that dress?

You know, I'm sorry. I hope
that wasn't too unprofessional.

Very.

No. That's fine.

Thank you.

It's nice to be appreciated.

I should be apologizing to you,
the way I've been drooling

over these crab puffs.

And a man like you, single...

cooking all of this.

Yeah. It's rough out here
in these streets,

but I've been a good boy
and hopefully

Santa'll stuff
a little somethin',

somethin' in my stocking
this year.

Oh.

-Or someone.
-Ah! I like that.

Now I got to revise my letter
to the North Pole.

How you spell your name again?

Hey, you know...
Should I leave?

Oh, Terrance, you're still here?

Really?

Tell you what. I'm gonna get you
guys some sample menu

to finalize everything,
a few more samples.

I'm just gonna run down
to my truck, okay?

-Mm.
-All right? I'll be right back.

What?

And please, if anything comes
to mind, just let me know.

Okay? 'Cause I can tweak,
twist and adjust the menu

to whatever you like to
suit your personal needs.

-Mm-hm. Thank you.
-Ah, no problem.

-I will be calling you.
-Okay. All right.

-Mm-hm. Merry Christmas.
-Merry Christmas to you too.

-Feliz Navidad!
-Ha-Happy Hanukkah.

-Oh. Happy Kwanzaa.
-Happy Kwanzaa to you too.

What's up with you, Grinch?

He was so busy flirting
with you that you didn't even

finalize Sabrina's menu.

It's okay. I can always call him
back down here.

He's not even your type.

And how would you know?

First-hand knowledge.

Well, maybe I'm ready
to try something new.

Babe, really?

I almost got a
residence in Thailand.

That's why you did
get a residence in Chicago.

-It's my love language.
-It was worth it.

I guess he said no to the dress.
Got her. Didn't I?

-No.
-Come on. Oh!

-Go.
-Why do I have to go?

Your mouth.

You gonna
tell me anyway.

What happened?

Tell me everything.

He said that he was thinking
about coming back home.

Okay.

And she's thinking about
coming back with him.

And then, Sabrina told me that
she wants me to sign her,

and if I do,
then I'll get promoted.

Wow!

So what do you want?

-I want the promotion.
-Mm-hm.

-And the man.
-Mm-hm.

So, meet with her!

What? But how?

I thought we hated her.

Now, how're we supposed
to help her?

She'll be helping you.

You gotta keep your
enemies close.

The pretty ones, even closer.

Is that a saying?

When they look like her, yes.

Besides,
you can find out

what makes her tick, and then
you'll know how to destroy her.

You mean, how to destroy
their relationship?

I said, what I meant to say.

You are too into this.

Just committed to the plan.

And bored out of my mind
working from home.

So, are we gonna take this
up a notch?

Elle.

Elle Carver!

-It is so nice to meet you.
-Thank you.

When I found out that you
and Noelle were friends,

I knew this was kismet.

Your book is truly brilliant.

Seriously, we need more

black girl magic
in the world of literature.

Thank you, Sabrina. Honestly,
I'm just happy to be here!

I mean, talk about
black girl magic, look at you!

I've been following your career
for years.

You're a B.

You're too kind.

-Please, have a seat.
-All right.

Now, don't judge me.

My assistant went to go
grab my book,

then you can give me
an autograph.

I got you, girl!

I was telling Elle
how much of a game changer

you've been in this industry.

And, with you coming back
to the States to re-brand,

there's no better place
than Ryse.

I've seen first-hand how you
move and inspire women.

It's time. It's time that you
start empowering them.

Sis, white women have had the
motivational genre on lock

for years.

It time we start making
some moves. Shake things up.

Okay, ladies.
You all got my attention.

So, I was thinking...

That's a quick turnaround time.

Do you really think we'll be
able to get that proposal

back to Sabrina
before Christmas?

Oh, absolutely.
I do them in my sleep.

Together, we can have 'em
by the Christmas party deadline,

and have it drafted
by the top of the year.

-You were brilliant in there.
-What? Me? No, no, no.

-That is Sabrina.
-No.

I loved her idea to announce
our partnership

at the Christmas party,
but it was you that sold me.

You passion for positively
impacting the lives of women,

also the fact that you want
to do a five book series--

Oh, no, no, no!
But it was you!

You! You had that idea
for the live podcast

by women inspired by your book.

And it was your idea
to get us sponsorship

so that way, we can do
a HBCU college tour

and have a scholarship
for aspiring black writers.

You're forgetting that you're
the one that said to document it

so we can use it as a marketing
tool for the launch.

Ah...

You are brilliant.

I love how you understand
my brand, my vision...

me.

Yeah. Yeah, I do, huh.

I mean, I learned a lot
about you today.

About your impact. How you've
helped so many women.

It's really beautiful.

I believe in you, Elle.

Thanks so much.

That means a lot.

I can't wait to tell Terrance
we're besties too!

Special delivery.

You really should consider
delivery as your second job.

Hey, look, I can make banker
on holidays.

Exactly.
What're you doin' here?

Oh, Elle told me
you were working late,

so, here I am.

And the flowers?

Yeah, she said that
she met with her attorney

and she signed up
with you guys.

-What?
-Yeah.

Wait, I'm sorry.
Did I ruin a surprise?

No! That's fine.

-It's fine!
-Okay.

Congratulations.

Yeah.

Thank you. Thank you.

Um, so, where is Elle, to tell
me how worthy I am of worship?

Well, I mean, she wanted
to have them delivered,

but I told her roses
were your favorite

and thought why not
deliver 'em myself.

Right.

-That's really sweet.
-No problem.

Well...

Ah, since you are here,

you have no plans tonight?

No.

Why? What're you thinkin'?

♪ Silent night

♪ Holy night

♪ All is calm

♪ And all is bright...

Yo, can you believe
they still did a midnight

Christmas movie marathons
down at the old theater?

Can you believe
there is still dollar?

-Are you serious?
-Mm-hm.

Wow! That didn't stop us from

sneaking in there
in the eighth grade though.

That's right.

That's because you were
a bad influence on me.

Me? I was the...

You were the one using me to
make, uh, Antoine Bell jealous.

Don't act like you don't
remember his name. I was not.

I just wanted a nice night out
at the movies for Christmas

and...

I used you, okay?
But it didn't work. So...

-You sucked!
-Whatever!

Thank you.

So tell me somethin'...

why isn't there anyone that
I'm making jealous

about being here tonight?

I mean, where's your
boy Chef Jake?

He can't bake cookies?

That's so funny.

It's none of your business.

All right.

You've been datin' since we...

Yep.

I've... dated.

Been dating.

When I have time.

Right. Your MO.

Surprised you
even had time to

start a relationship with me,
let alone anyone.

Wow. Is that where
we're goin' tonight?

Don't act like I didn't rock
your world for two years.

You're right.

You did.

What?

Are you serious? No.

Still, you-you've seen this
like a hundred times.

Shut up. Everyone cries
at this movie.

Stop laughing. It's not...

What? I-I'm sorry. I'm sorry.

Okay, let me,
let me help you get your tears.

Yeah, yeah,
You're always teasing me.

Why do you do...

-Oh. Ah.
-Oh.

Oh, I'm so sorry!
Here, give it to me.

I'm sure David has something dry
you can change into.

It's all good.

♪ Way heavy on the heart

Here.

♪ It's melancholy

-Um, should I go back--
-Oh, no, no, no.

I got it.

In front of Baby Jesus?

We were just
trying to see a movie

and then we had some cookies but
it's not really what I tried...

It was an accident.

Mm-hmm.

Somebody had a good time.

Stop.

I'll tell you about it tomorrow.
Go to bed.

No!
You gotta give me something.

It was good, okay?

It was, it was great, actually.

So was his chest.

Mm.

Why you look so sad?

I don't know.

Girl, this is everything.

Do you think it will work?

What? With this marketing plan,
it has to.

We need to talk.

-This sounds serious.
-It is.

So, do you wanna tell me,
or do I have to ask you?

-Ask what?
-Who is he?

Who's-who's who?

The man that put
that's making you smile.

I see you glowing.

Your outfit, you're just
covered in with tight clothes,

you're looking good,
smelling good, all day.

Come on. Tell me.

-Who is he?
-Hey. Oh, sorry.

I didn't know
you were in a meeting.

Hi.

Sorry, I had a meeting
with the marketing team,

so I figured I'd pop in.

-Mm.
-Is it a bad time?

No, no, I'm really glad
that you dropped by.

Elle Carver, Vincent Downing.

Nice to meet you.

-The Elle Carver?
-Yes.

-Pleasure to meet you.
-Nice to meet you too.

-I love your work.
-Thank you.

-Yes, ma'am.
-I'll be right with you.

Um...

I got some news.

Uh-oh.

I loved your draft.

I think you're done, my friend.

-Ohh.
-Mm-hmm.

-So no more notes?
-No more notes!

-No more red marks?
-No more red marks.

Oh, how much
I love those red marks.

I know you ha...

No, it's-it's amazing, Vincent.

This is probably
some of your best work.

That's great. Thank you!

No problem.

Is there anything else
I can help you with right now?

-Huh?
-Anything else right now?

Oh, no.

I'll let you two get on with it.

Mm.

-Get some rest.
-I will.

-No more 3:00 a.m. texts.
-No more.

-Bye.
-Bye.

-Bye-bye.
-That's him, right?

-What? Vincent?
-Yes!

-You think Vincent is the guy?
-Yes!

Wait. There's-there's no guy.

Um, but he's just one of our
best-selling authors, you know?

Like you're about to be, girl.
So let's get back to work.

And speaking of that,
I have a mock up

with a little something,
something.

I know you're not done
with your book just yet,

but I was hoping
this could be some inspiration.

El, how did you find the time?

Ah. It was already swirling
around in my head.

You wrote this about me?
About my book?

-Yeah. It was nothing.
-No.

This is something.

Girl, I'm not doing this
with you today.

-What? What's happening?
-That's it!

-We gotta celebrate.
-Celebrate?

Our union. Our partnership.

Sisters leveling up together!

Terrance already had his
good time with you.

Now, it's my turn.
Grab your bag.

Let's go.

Come on.

Come on. You have to remember
some of his exes.

I mean, tell me how they were.

Did you all get along?

Um... we got along
well enough.

Ah...

When I first met him, I couldn't
believe he was single.

I mean, you gotta be honest,
I know that's your boy,

but, sis, he is fine.

I mean, he's all right.

He's the total package.

You gotta be a fool
to let him go.

Or a confused,
complicated soul.

-What about you and your exes?
-I didn't have many.

But my dad,
he was intimidating to them.

I did hide one boyfriend.

I was with him the longest.

Was he the love of your life?

No, he put me down a lot.

Made me feel next to nothing.

But I stayed with him

because part of me believed
it was true.

He was the inspiration
behind my book.

Encouraging woman,
motivating woman

to know their self-worth
no matter who they're with,

because I had to.

And then I met Terrance.

He changed everything for me.

He too was hurt and wounded
after his ex--

Hurt and wounded?

It took a lot for him
to trust me with his heart

after all he had been through.

Yeah. I'm sure.

But he did, and here we are.

I mean, who actually
gets to meet

and be with
the love of their life?

Yeah, who.

-Hey.
-Hey.

Where's Sandra?

Knocked out sleep
from Christmas shopping.

So, best time for me
to wrap her gift.

How was your eve?

Is your diabolical plan of
destroy Black love working?

Oh, come on. No comeback?

She loves him.

Like, really loves him.

And, you do too, right?

Yeah.

And the worst part is...
I like her.

Like, legitimately
I would hang with her.

Mm.

I don't even know
what I'm doing anymore.

I mean, why do I have to give up
everything that I want for her?

But isn't she's kinda giving you
what you really want?

Her signing at Ryse absolutely
solidifies your imprint.

And isn't that the dream?

Yeah.

But why can't I have the dream,
and the man?

Why, why do women
always have to choose?

You wanna know what I think?

You know
how she feels about him.

You know how you feel about him.

And you're kindly clear
on how he feels about her.

But what you seem to be
quite unclear on is

how he feels about you.

Figure that out,
and maybe all of this

will make some sense.

Aw, I hate when you're right.

Then you hate often.

-A live podcast.
-Oh, my God.

That would be so good.

Then we can do
market in dollars.

-Right.
-Scholarships.

-For HPCU.
-Yes.

-For aspiring writers.
-That's it, Black writers.

-Black aspiring writers!
-Yes!

Babe, what are you doing here?

I'm sorry,
I didn't mean to interrupt.

-I'm not gonna be here long.
-Yeah, yeah.

What're you doing here?
We have a deadline to catch.

-Okay.
-Yeah, babe.

-We're working.
-All right, look, I'm not...

Noe, would you mind
if I get the room for a second?

Can y'all take a quick break?

Sure.

Thank you.

-Do you want anything?
-No, I'm good.

-Thank you.
- Okay.

We present an update
to Sabrina in an hour.

She wants us to do
a pre-presentation

before the board.
I'm super nervous.

I don't know
if we're gonna do good, baby.

-I'm so scared.
-Okay.

Okay. Just calm down.

-I'm so nervous.
-All right, all right.

That's why I'm here.

Breathe.

Just relax.

All right.
Yes.

Calm down. I'm here.

Now why are you here?

Because I'm worthy

and I deserve this.

I'm sorry, I-I didn't hear you.

Because I'm worthy
and I deserve this.

You know, I'mma little hard
at hearing so--

Baby, because I'm worthy
and I deserve this!

That's what I'm talking about.

Look, I know you've had some
disappointments in the past.

And that's why
you self-published.

But, Noelle is good people.

-She is. Mm-hmm.
-She believes in you.

-She's got your back.
-Yes, she does.

I got your back.

You're gonna do great,
you hear me?

Yes.

You will not fail.
Thank you, babe.

I won't let you.

What else?

If God brought me to it,

he equipped me to do it.

That's right.

-I love you, woman.
-I love you too, Ter Bear.

-How much you love me?
-I love you!

How much?

Mm.

So, what's the problem?

His family's annual
pre-Christmas dinner is perfect!

-His mom loves you.
-This is a mess.

Pretending like
we're still bro and sis.

Elle will definitely catch on.

His parents will be chill.

Mm, once his mama found out
we were dating,

she started sending me
fresh knitted baby clothes

for our future babies.

I don't see the problem.

So what if Elle finds out?

She would be devastated
and she'll leave him.

Mm. And me.

Okay, now I'm really confused.

You're talking about
that deal with Ryse,

the one that has you
on the rise?

Well, she's my friend now.

And she's helping me.
I'm helping her...

I don't know.
This is a mess.

All right, so you're also
his best friend.

So if you don't show,
it's gonna look suspicious.

So, what are you gonna to do?

I know. I know.
I look good.

And no pictures.
Because I charge it.

-Ohh!
-Ah!

Whoo-whee, look at you.
Make yourself useful.

Make yourself useful.
Make yourself useful.

Oh, you look ravishing.

Ohh, give me a spin, give me
a spin, give me a spin.

Ooh, they gonna need some
theme music when you walk in.

-Hey...
-Mm-hmm-hmm.

Thank you for going to this drab
of a Christmas party with me.

Thank Noelle for baby-sitting

so I could go with you.

I'll do no such thing.

She lives here rent free.

So this is her duty.

Shut up.

You know I love giving you two
a chance to bask in your love.

Thanks, sis.

Oh. Give me this.

Mm, let's get out of here

looking all fine
with this animal.

Damn.

♪ Looking through photographs

♪ All the ghosts
from Christmas past ♪

♪ Weigh heavy on the heart

Oh, my God!

♪ It's melancholy

Aww!

Wow.

That's crazy.

♪ Than boughs of holly

♪ I look forward to the time

♪ That we could all be
put together ♪

♪ Maybe I'll enjoy December

Mm.

Merry Christmas.
Happy holidays.

Merry Christmas.
Happy holidays.

Hi!

Hi! Welcome.

Oh, I'm good.

Hey, hey, look who's here.

-And she brought cake.
-There's my girl!

My love!
My daughter is finally here.

You look beautiful.

Don't start to do
all this stuff---

Hush. I can greet my daughter
if I want to.

You ended things with her.
Not me.

It smells so good in here.

But, where's Elle?
I thought that she'd be helping.

-What?
-Oh, you mean the queen vegan?

She threw out my chitlins

'cause she thought
it was molded food,

then she tried to put
Brussel sprouts in my greens.

Oh, come on, ma. You know
she was just trying to help--

Well, there ain't no trying or
experimenting in my kitchen.

It's Christmas.

In here messing
around with my...

We wouldn't want that.

So where's Elle?

In the den with my dad.
Where it's safe.

Oh, okay, let me
go ahead and say hello.

No, what you need to do is
throw on that apron

and help me finish up in here.

But, ma, I thought you
just said that

there was no nobody touching
nothing up in your kitchen.

No, I said she can't
touch nothing up in my kitchen.

And you know who she is.

You know...

Hey.
There you are.

I see much hasn't
changed in here.

Yeah. You know mom
can't let go of this room.

Mm.

Hey, um, now, you've been
so busy with Elle...

we never really had a chance
to talk about our movie date.

Date?

Yeah.
It got... real.

-Look, if I crossed any lines--
-No. It's fine.

I didn't take it
any kind of way.

I mean, you were just
comforting me, right?

Yeah. Yeah, yeah, right.

Right.

So, um... FYI,
my mom has already agreed

that she's not gonna talk about,
you know...

Oh. Uh-huh.

Mention that I'm the best
thing that's happened to you

since sliced bread
and caller ID?

I mean, this, this is your home.

Wherever Elle is,
it's my home.

Oh.

So, now your home is wherever
your girlfriend is.

-That's new.
-Look, don't go there, Noe.

-I'm just saying...
-What are you saying?

I mean, what does it
even matter to you?

-Well, maybe it's because--
-Hey, you two.

-Hey.
-In here having fun without me?

-Just catching up.
-I think dinner's ready.

And, your mom said I can't go
into the kitchen without--

An escort?

Protection.

Come on.

So, Noelle,
how's everything at Ryse?

It's great... thanks to Elle.

No, thanks to Noelle.

We have a meeting with the board
tomorrow to finalize things.

In less than a week, Noelle
built out a whole marketing plan

to help promote my new book,
and it's not even done.

Yeah, these two are really
shaking things up over there.

Mm, and seeing that I haven't
read your first book,

and don't plan on it,
you wanna tell us

what the second one is about?

Well, the first book
is about helping women

unleash and unlock for success.

And the next one is about

women unleashing
and unlocking for love.

Interesting. And you have a lot
of expertise in this area?

Unleashing in love?

Mary...

-What?
-Come on, ma.

It's gonna be really good.

Mm-hmm.

And I think it's gonna be
a huge game changer

for Black authors
in the self-help space.

And, hopefully, it's gonna be
big for you.

I've been watching you
work so hard

since you were a little girl.

Maybe we're just proud.

You, uh, deserve
a little happiness.

-Thank you.
-Here, here.

Cheers to Noelle.

Yes, cheers.
To the both of them.

You're my two special ladies.

Well, this is beautiful

being able to celebrate you
like this, babe.

With my family.

I can only hope and pray
that this is

the first of many more
holidays together.

Oh, sweetie,
I feel the same.

I love you so much, Ter Bear.

I love you too.

Oh, all right, all right,
can we clear the table?

So we can pull the desserts out.

Don't worry about it, Elle.
I-I'll get it. Just...

I-I'll get it.

No, wait.
Hey, where're you going?

No. No, wait, wait.
Where're you going?

No, the coat,
I cannot stay here.

What's wrong? Hey.

Hey, look, it's gonna be okay.

Whatever it is.
I'm-I'm right here.

Wait, wait, wait, wait.

-Noe, we can't...
-I'm sorry.

I'm sorry.

No, wait, I'm not,
I'm not sorry.

I'm confused.

Why didn't you choose me?

Why couldn't you choose me?

So that's it?

You're using her to hurt me?

-No. I'm with her because...
-Because?

Why are we talking about this,
Noelle?

Because we never
talk about this.

Through all the laughs
and smiles...

we've never discussed why
we couldn't make it all the way.

We never discussed why you
going and staying in London

was the biggest mistake.

Hell, you even
rebounded with a fake Noelle.

You told me to go!

-New beginnings, remember?
-No, it's...

I was just trying
to be supportive.

Hold you down.
That's what we do, right?

Dammit, Terrance.
Are you blind?

Like, are you blind?

I'm still in love with you.
I jus...

And what happened
the other night--

Look, look, look, Noe, Noe...

I'm sorry if I led you on.

I just missed my friend.
And-and--

And?

Please stop.

Please stop.

Just tell your parents
I was sick.

Noelle.

So, once the outline
is complete,

on page six you'll see our
prelaunch plan.

She'll tackle
a chapter teaser each week

to get the buzz going,

hopefully get some
new trending topics

and new followers to pre-order
the book before it even sells.

This is wonderful.
Really.

I think I speak for all of us
when I say this is impressive.

Elle, is there anything
you'd like to add?

No.

Oh... okay, well, we'll give
these numbers a closer look,

but I'm good with all of this.

And you made
the Christmas deadline.

All thanks to Elle.

We actually make
a really great team.

Yes. We actually did.

Excuse me.

Well...

Excuse me, Sabrina.
Excuse me, everyone.

Elle?

Elle, hello?
Where're you going?

Elle, stop!
What's going on?

-You're her, aren't you?
-Her who? What are you talk--

Don't act like I'm an idiot.

I overheard
your whole conversation

last night while
I was in the kitchen.

-Elle, I don't know--
-You're the ex.

-The one that broke his heart.
-I am.

But I thought you found
a man of your own.

I didn't realize you were
still in love with mine.

-Elle, I'm so sorry.
-Sorry for what?

Sorry for pretending to be
my friend?

Sorry for acting like you saw
something in me?

I do!
I do see something in you.

And we are friends, Elle!
I wanna help.

You saw a come up.

An opportunity and a fool.

Some friend.
Goodbye, Noelle.

Elle. But, Elle...

Elle!

Noelle.
I need to see you. Now.

Sabrina, I'm so sorry.

Is everything okay
between you two?

-Yes. Absolutely.
-Well, I hope so.

Because the board was impressed
and they're ready to move.

This is big for everyone.
Especially you.

I know. I promise.
Everything will be fine.

Well, I'm not so sure
about that.

Noelle, you are an amazing
junior executive,

but I draw the line
when you interfere

in people's personal lives
and bring it into the office.

Honestly, I didn't think
it would get this far--

So, it was you? You had Richard
call and ask me out?

Wait. Richard? What?
He called you?

Yes. He called me
before the meeting.

-You didn't know?
-No.

I had no idea.

Can you believe that?

Before he even had a chance
to see me

in my two sizes down
designer couture dress,

he asked me out.

That's great.

I'm petrified.

Don't give me those Bambi eyes.

I don't do this. I don't date.

I work.
I build. I strategize.

I achieve. I don't... date.

Okay, then, don't go.

I can't.

Why not?

Because... I like him.

And no one should be alone
on Christmas.

You're right.

I don't have it all...

but I would like a little bit

of whatever this is.

Well, then, relax and be you.

It's who he's interested in.

But, but how do I know?

Noelle, I can't tell you how
long it's been since I've dated.

And love...
even longer than that.

You... you could do this.

You just have to surrender
yourself to the moment.

Open yourself up
to the opportunity.

He's making his
intentions clear.

-That's half the battle.
-You make it sound so easy.

Because it is.

You just have to take it
day by day.

And, if it's for you,
love will come and find you.

You can't force anyone
to love you.

Just open your eyes
and listen with your heart.

You'll know if it's real...

and you'll know
what you have to do.

Oh...

Where are you going?

I just figured out
what I have to do.

Well, don't be late to
the venue for the party!

You know I don't deal
with caterers!

-Hey. Come on in.
-Hey.

-How are you?
-I'm good. How are you?

-Noelle?
-Right here.

-Hey.
-Hey.

I'm sorry I was ignoring
your calls.

But I see you got my message?

You talk to her yet?

She left my parents' house
right after you.

She's staying at a hotel.

So... no surprise
she spazzed out

after your meeting.

She's mad, mad.

Can you blame her?

I should have told her
the truth.

Why didn't you?

No, I didn't want her to be
uncomfortable, you know.

I didn't want her to
have to worry about--

Worry about what?

I thought she was
the one, Noelle.

I hurt somebody that has done
nothing but put me first.

My wants, my needs...

So, she caters to you?

-No.
-Got it.

She sacrifices for me.

We want the same things
at the same time.

We were talking
marriage in a year,

and kids after that...

Really?

Even with her career
on the rise?

Yes.

Even with all of that,

a life with me
was never a second thought.

We wanna be together
more than anything.

I wanted it to work, Terrance.

Right.

Not more than
you wanted your career.

And that's fine,
I know.

But I'm in a
different place now.

So am I.

Hi.

Ooh.

-Everyone's here.
-Mm-hmm.

-But, of course.
-Including Richard.

Oh, I saw.

Ooh.

Oh, I'm so nervous.
I'm so...

-Do I look nervous?
-Uh-huh.

No, no, no.
You look fabulous..

Thank you.

Oh! Congratulations.

For what?

You haven't checked your email?

It's been confirmed.

You've been green-lit
to start your own imprint.

Sabrina, seriously?

Oh, my gosh!
Yes! Yes! Oh, my gosh!

Which writer will you
sign first?

I don't know.

I can sign writers now.
Oh, my gosh!

Mm, I have an idea.

-Thank you so much. That mean...
-Hi, Tenese.

Hi, how are you?
Could I speak with her?

Yes.

-Elle, you look--
-Don't.

I'm only here at the advisement
of my attorney.

Wanted to make sure
things are copasetic

while he works on getting out
of my contract at Ryse.

-Elle, please reconsider.
-Why? Your job depends on it?

No.

Forget my job.

You know what,
do what you want with Ryse.

I worked really hard
to get here,

and if I have to do it again
from scratch, I will.

But getting there
is never really there,

you know, if you don't
remember the lessons

along the way
that will keep you there.

You finally read my book?

Elle, I'm so sorry
for everything.

I know I did a lot
of things wrong.

Yes.

But the one thing
I did do right,

was elevate and push you
to elevate your platform.

And your voice deserves
to be heard.

Because I really,
truly believe in you.

I don't get you, Noelle.
I don't.

Not even after
the 20 messages I left you?

Twenty six.

Right.

What is he doing here?

-He's here for you.
-No.

I don't wanna be a part of
your little games.

No more games.
No more lies.

He is my very best friend.

And you are what's best for him.

I thought I wanted
what we had back,

but I'm wrong.

So, now you don't love him?

I've known him forever.

So I will always love him.

But he's in love with you.

I don't know what to believe.

That's fair.

At least go listen for yourself.

Time to unlock and unleash
the love.

When we were kids,
we used to lay down

at the bottom of the tree
at my parent's house

and look up at the lights.

Yeah. That was my favorite
thing to do on Christmas day.

You two gonna be okay?

Yeah. I think so.

We still got a lot of
talking to do,

but whatever you said helped.

Just told the truth, for once.

Hey, look, Noelle, um...

You don't have to say it.

I love you.
All right, I always will.

And I would never trade
what we have for anything.

Good. 'Cause I love you back,
and thank you.

For what?

You letting me go
last year...

it was the release
I didn't know I needed

so I can grow
and go after the things

I really wanted at the time.

And that doesn't mean
I don't want love.

-No.
-Mm.

I just want a love
that wants me back.

I want at the right time,
the right place,

with the right one.

That's deep.

That is an excerpt
from your girl's book.

Anyway, you deserve love,
Noelle.

And you'll find it.

-It just ain't with the chef.
-Oh, there you go again.

Not minding your business.

Hey, uh, Elle's gonna
stay at Ryse, too.

-Really? Why?
-Yeah.

I talked to her.

And you got my back.

I got yours.

-Thank you.
-No problem.

-I'll talk to you later.
-Okay.

May I have this dance?

Wow.

All of this from a man,

and I can't even get to get
dressed up for his own book.

Hey, photoshoots are soft.
I stand by that.

Mm-hmm.

-You look very nice, sir.
-Thank you.

And you look... exquisite.

-Thank you.
-Mm-hmm.

So, who's the lucky escort
tonight?

Mm, this designer bag,
with the tag tucked in,

and some celebratory champagne.

Celebratory?

-I got my own imprint.
-Wha-a-at?

Finally, finally-finally,

I get to publish
books that I want,

you know,
promote new voices and writers,

and tell the stories
I really wanna tell.

That is amazing.

-And so well deserved.
-Thank you.

So, how long do I have to wait

for you to offer me a deal
at this new mystery imprint?

Not a joke, Vincent.

I'm not joking.

Well, you know
I can't afford you.

I don't care.

-You're crazy.
-Yes, I am.

For you.

Even after I--

Made a huge mistake
by turning me down?

Mm.

Well, that could be
easily rectified, Noelle.

Ahem, uh, Vincent...
will you go out with me?

-Mm. I don't know.
-Oh, my God.

You already know.

Noelle, you've been my Carla
since chapter three

of my second book.

Oh, my goodness.

That was corny,

but probably
the most romantic thing

anyone has ever said to me.

Maybe that's because
Eugene is tired

of running from
what he really wants.

And just may decide to ask for
Carla's hand by chapter nine?

Mm, well, Carla
might be inclined,

depends on what happens
in chapter ten.

Why don't we let the rest of
this book write itself?

♪ Was to certain
poor shepherds ♪

♪ In fields as they lay

♪ In fields

♪ As they lay lay

♪ Keeping their sheep

♪ On a cold

♪ Winter's night

♪ That was

♪ So deep

♪ Noel

♪ Noel

♪ Noel

♪ Noel

♪ Born is the king

♪ Of Israel

♪ The first

♪ Noel

♪ The angels did say

♪ Was to certain

Well, our plan failed,

but I'm glad you have Vincent.

As long as you're happy,
I'm happy.

Mm, yeah.

You're supposed to stay awake.

Listen...

Who's watching who over here,
huh?

-Hey.
-Hey, Bubba. Hey, Bubba.

Come on, sit down,
I got gifts.

-Okay.
-I'll be right back, okay?

-Here you go.
-Let's see. Let's see.

-Brother-in-law.
-All right, all right.

-All right.
-Right next to me.

Okay. Mm.

-I want the big one. W--
-Open it and see.

Relator?

Don't play with me.
Don't...

Are you, are you leaving?

So last night
your girl found out

she finally got
her own imprint!

Ohh!

Also, you know that means

I can finally make sure
that I move out--

Get up out of my house.

Oh!
This is the best gift ever.

Holy...

Yes, it's a miracle.
Answer it.

Okay, so what I'm gonna do is

I'm gonna give you your gift.

Oh, yes, I'm going to help you
start packing now.

Yeah, yeah, yeah.
Here you go.

Oh.

Oh, I thought I was gonna turn
off the Wi-Fi

to get you out of here.

-Forget him.
-I'm gonna do it.

-I am so proud of you.
-Thank you.

-You did it.
-I did.

-You did.
-Got my own imprint!

-Yes!
-Ya!

I love it!

-Thank you so much.
-Ohh, it was nothing.

-Wait, was he kidding?
-Uh-huh.

He, I don't want him
touching my stuff, you know.

David, don't touch my stuff!