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* Deck the halls with
boughs of holly *

* Fa la la la la,
la, la, la, la, la *

* Tis the season to be jolly *

* Fa la la la la
la la la la *

* Don we now our gay apparel *

* Fa la la la la
la la la la *

* Troll the ancient
yuletide carol, *

* Fa la la la la
la la la la *

I know this trip didn't
work out as we hoped.

But I don't want you
to be worried.

Not one bit.

Every "no" from an investor
gets us one step

closer to a "yes".

I know with all my heart
that Lane Cosmetics

is gonna be a
big deal someday.

Thank you, sir.

There you go.
You are very welcome.

Thank you very much.

I would rather spend
Christmas Eve with

the people in this room...

than with the finest
people I know.

[laughing]

To the town council.

[all] To the town council.

[sighs]

But for now, we're gonna
take a moment to regroup

and start fresh once
you're here.

I can't wait to meet you.

* Don we now our
gay apparel... *

Now, for the big question.

What are we gonna name you?

What about Kate?

Kate like... oww!

[groans]

Okay.

That's a big no on Kate.

[breathing heavily]

I'm gonna get us some help.

[pleasant music]

[panicked breathing]

Sorry to barge in like this.

The snow is really
coming down,

and I think I'm going
into labor.

-Okay.
-Okay.

Believe it or not, you've come
to the right place.

I'll grab my emergency bag.

I'm doctor Austin.

Let's get you laying down so
we can see what's going on.

Can you get some hot water
and clean towels?

Yeah, I'm on it.

What's your name, dear?

Elizabeth.

Elizabeth Lane.

How far along are you?

A little over eight months.

The baby wasn't supposed to be
here till the new year.

Oh, well... you and I know that,

but I think this baby
has other plans.

Is this your first?

Yeah, it's, um... a little girl.

Alright.

All good.

[exhales]

[labored breathing]

Well...

The good news is that
your little girl

is gonna be here in time
for Christmas.

The even better news,
I have personally delivered

over 100 babies since
I started my practice.

You're working with a pro.

Deep breath.
One more push.

[exhales]

That's it. That's it.

Have you given any thought
to a name?

Yeah.

I was gonna go with Alex.

But, under the current
circumstances...

I think I'm gonna have to go
with Evie.

Evie Lane.

It's perfect.

Would it be alright if we
document this special occasion?

A keepsake for when Evie
is old enough to appreciate it.

Yeah, I'd like that very much.

You've all been so wonderful.

I can't imagine a better
Christmas present.

[all chuckle]

Okay.
Everyone say "Merry Christmas".

[all] Merry Christmas.

[camera clicks]

Let's get one more,
just in case.

Okay. Always the lawyer,
playing it safe.

Uh-huh.
Well, you can thank me later.

[all] Merry Christmas.

[camera clicks]

I just need to do Evie's
first checkup. Okay?

Okay.

Okay. Come here, sweet girl.

Hello, sweetheart.

-Okay, come on. [shushing]
-[baby coos]

Okay. [shushing]

How are you doing?

It's hard to let her go.

Oh, I can't imagine.

You did so good.

[baby cooing]

I'm going to need an escort
to the hospital.

The roads are still
pretty bad out there.

Roy, I'll drive with you.

What?

Elizabeth, Evie may have
an abdominal obstruction.

-Stay with me.
-What?

You need to be strong
for your baby.

I'm going to be right by
your side the entire time.

I promise.

Hey, it's okay.

[baby crying]

[VO] So, instead of spending
Christmas Eve at home,

with my grandma Helen,
I was at a hospital

while my daughter underwent
emergency surgery.

If it had happened anywhere
else along the way...

I would've lost her.

Those generous, thoughtful
people delivered my baby,

got us to a hospital,

and took up a collection
to cover my bills.

Their support helped keep
my dream alive.

And that dream became
Lane Cosmetics,

a billion dollar,
multinational company.

But that pales in comparison...

to my greatest success.

No.

Please stand up, sweetheart.

Everyone, please welcome
my daughter, Evie,

to her first ever
trailblazer talk.

-[applause]
-Excuse me, sorry.

Come on up, sweetheart.

[applause]

Thanks, Mom.

On my journey, I realized that
overcoming challenges

doesn't have to be a solo act.

It's a collective effort,

strengthened by the support of
my friends, my daughter,

and the good people that I met
on that night.

Let's be a community of support

and help each other fulfill
our dreams.

Together, we will continue
to shatter ceilings,

build female-driven businesses,

and create a world where
every woman's voice matters.

[cheers and applause]

Thank you, Aspen.

Thank you.

So... what did you think of
my trailblazer talk?

Equal parts inspiring
and embarrassing.

I had no idea you were gonna
talk about me.

It's only because
I'm so proud of you.

I wasn't too sure after my
La-La-Lane fashion-wear sales.

Well, the main thing is
you were able to express
yourself creatively.

Thanks, Mom.

Yeah, I do love
my fashion design.

You've always been
so supportive.

Well, you deserve every
opportunity in the world.

Do you have time for a coffee?

Of course.

Great. I have an early
birthday gift for you.

Mom, seriously, you spoil me.

Trust me, I know.

[cheerful music]

This is for you.

Mom.

A polaroid?

Taken the night you were born.

I found it last week
in my old sample box.

It triggered a lot of memories,
and I'll admit...

some soul searching about you,
and myself as a parent.

You've been an
incredible mother.

I say this to you
with nothing but love.

I have always done what
I thought was best for you.

But you've been spoiled.

Spoiled?

No, I'm just well-cared for.

You're almost 35, and you still
depend on your mother.

That is spoiled.

I didn't realize it was
a problem,

you've never said anything.

It isn't a problem.

I just worry that in trying
to give you

a better life than I had,
I've given you too good a life.

I protected you from reality.

You don't know what it's like
to be around normal people

doing normal things.

I need you to prove that
you are ready to handle

the responsibility that comes

with the fortune
you stand to inherit.

Mom...

I want you to experience
what I experienced.

I want you to find out who
the people are in this photo

and try to repay
their kindness.

Why would they even care?
They're strangers to me.

Their willingness to help
this stranger in need

is the reason you're
alive today.

Why not build them a library
or a school or something?

You know, make a big to-do?
Get some press for the brand.

This isn't about me
or the brand.

This is about you understanding
where you came from.

And meeting the good people
that are responsible

for the blessed lives we lead.

I have made your rewarding
their kindness a condition.

Precedent to you taking charge
of your trust fund.

Seriously?

This will explain
all the rules,

including using an alias.

While in Brookswood,

you must keep your true
identity hidden.

All to be completed before
midnight on Christmas Eve.

On my birthday?
You've gotta be kidding me?!

You're going to have to give
to get.

Mom, this is crazy.

This could be some wild
goose chase.

Trust me, it won't be.

You are kind-hearted
and you are generous,

but you never follow through
with anything.

I'm hoping this will properly
motivate you.

It... Do you even know if these
people are still alive?

If you fail to meet
the deadline,

your trust fund
will become forfeit

to a charity of my choosing.

I feel like I'm being punished.

Quite the opposite.

You have an obligation to use
your good fortune

to promote
the well-being of others,

not just to support
your own lifestyle.

The act of giving
is a powerful tool.

It spreads kindness and makes
a difference in this world.

The town that you were born in

seems to me the best place
for you to start.

Now, I know this is difficult...

but as a parent, the greatest
gift I can bestow upon you

is faith in your own potential.

[groans]

[deep breath]

[cheerful music]

The Four Seasons it is not.
Hmm.

There she is.

Welcome to Brookswood.
I'm Mrs. King.

Owner, sole proprietor,
chief cook and bottle washer.

Thank you. Uh... checking in.

The name is... Mary.

Mary Dawson.

Mary Dawson.
Booked through Christmas Day.

I'm not sure how long
I'll actually be staying.

I'm eager to wrap up my visit
as soon as possible.

Oh, are you here for business
or pleasure?

Oh, definitely not
for pleasure.

We're gonna have to do
something to fix that.

These are our sign-off sheets.

We have all kinds of crafting
and other festive holiday fun

going on around here
for the next few weeks.

Oh, I'm sure they're wonderful.

I just don't expect I'll have
much free time while I'm here.

Well, why not sign off anyway.

Just in case?

Oh, they're very popular

and they do tend
to fill up quickly.

I wouldn't want you
to miss out.

I'll tell you what.
I'll be sure to think on it,

and if I change my mind,
you'll be the first to know.

All free of charge.

Just a little something

to make your stay with us
more memorable.

I'm certain my visit will be
something I won't soon forget.

I'll need your credit card
for incidentals.

Actually, I will have
the company call in

a credit card number.

Sure.

Whatever works.

Suite number six.

Thank you.

I just knew you would
change your mind.

No, I haven't changed my mind.

I just thought of something

you might be able
to help me with.

I'm in need of an attorney.

There seems to be only one
listed in Brookswood.

A Kyle Newman?

That's right.

Is he any good?

Oh, the best.
A real fighter.

After my husband passed,

I didn't think I could keep
the B&B going on my own.

Kyle petitioned the state
to grant us historical status.

Oh, they made him jump through
so many hoops,

but he never backed down.

It came with a huge relief
on the property taxes.

Great. Thank you.

He's also Brookswood's
most eligible bachelor.

Oh.

We held a contest.

I was one of the judges.

[chuckles dryly]

Of course you were.

Well, I will keep that in mind.

Thanks.

[upbeat cheerful music]

[camera clicks]

[camera clicks]

I wonder what that's all about.

You're not putting this place
up for sale, are you, Jack?

[chuckles] Make me an offer.

You couldn't give this
place away.

[chuckles]

Paul, be nice.
It's Christmas time.

Maybe she's one of those
tourism influencers.

I would hate for this place
to become a culinary hot spot.

[men chuckle]

Well, there she goes.

She did not buy that
outfit here.

[serene music]

This can't be right.

Hmm.

Do you know where I could
find a Kyle Newman?

Wow.

...you guys are going to win,
whatever team.

That is...
one eligible bachelor.

Uh... hello there.
Are you Kyle? Kyle Newman?

Oh... you gotta be kidding me.
Uh... alright, boys. [claps]

Look, I already told you
on the phone,

we can't give up
any more rink time.

We're barely getting two
practices a week as it is.

I'm afraid you have me confused
with someone else.

Are you not Mrs. Carter?

The coach of the figure
skating team?

My name is Mary Dawson and
I'm in need of an attorney.

Oh.

Sorry. My apologies.

Uh...

Let me just finish up my
hockey practice

and then we can
move on to my law practice.

Alright?

Hm.

Hey! Sorry about that.

Can I get you something
from the snack bar?

The coffee's not much
to write home about,

but the hot chocolate
is fantastic.

This isn't your law office,
is it?

Yeah, I like to keep
the overhead low

so I can pass on the
savings to my clients.

I'm not exactly in the market
for discount legal services.

Well, I can assure you that
I am the best lawyer

that Brookswood
has to offer.

You are the only lawyer
in Brookswood.

I stand by my statement
of the facts.

Now...

why do you need a lawyer? Hmm?

Wrongful injury, traffic court?

I am in Brookswood on behalf
of the Lane family,

of Lane Cosmetics.

I've never heard of them.

Lane Cosmetics.
Founded by Elizabeth Lane.

It's a billion-dollar
multinational company.

Wow.

I'll have to take your word
for it, I don't know.

I would like to enlist
your services

in order to locate these
four people in the photo.

For what purpose?

To reward them for saving
the life of a little girl,

who was born in the diner on
Christmas Eve, 35 years ago.

I remember this story
when I was a kid.

The woman in the photo holding
the baby is Elizabeth Lane.

The founder of Lane Cosmetics.

I have been tasked with
locating the other four people

in the photo in order to
fulfill their Christmas wish.

To fulfill their
Christmas wish?

Yep.

[small chuckle]

Forgive my skepticism, it may
just be the lawyer in me,

but this whole thing just seems
a bit far-fetched to be real.

[chuckles]

Notarized documents from
the Lane Family Foundation

to verify this is indeed
for real.

[whistles]

Wow, this is as complicated

a list of conditions
as I've ever seen.

Ms. Lane is well-known for
her unconventional way

of doing things.

And why are you here...
instead of Ms. Lane?

The Lane Family Foundation
seeks to increase the amount of

kindness in the world without
the need for recognition.

And if the recipients were
made aware of our involvement,

greed, inevitably,
would impede the true spirit

of our endeavor.

Mm.

Listen, the people of
Brookswood are a humble bunch.

They helped this young woman

because it was the right thing
to do,

not because they wanted
anything in return.

Now, I'm sure your
intentions are good,

but this just seems like a
case of misplaced generosity.

Mr. Newman...

Kyle.

Please, call me Kyle.

Kyle, I'm not asking for
your permission.

I am asking for your guidance

on the legal aspects
of the endeavor.

Transfer of properties,
gift taxes, what have you.

And as selfless as you claim
the people of Brookswood to be,

it has been my experience
that everyone,

absolutely everyone,
has a price.

[both chuckle dryly]

Not everyone, Ms. Dawson.

I'd like to thank you for
your interest in my services,

but unfortunately,
at this time,

I'm not gonna be able
to take you on as a client.

[scoffs]

Hey!

Walking away from
the bargaining table

is a childish negotiation
tactic.

I'm not negotiating.
I don't wanna work with you.

Why? Give me one good reason.

Because this whole thing
seems like some harebrained,

reverse scavenger hunt,
designed by rich people.

[scoffs] Oh, I see.

You take issue
with philanthropy,

as well as general acts of
kindness and gratitude

at Christmas time.

You, sir... are a Grinch.

Are you this delightful
with everybody,

or do I bring out
the best in you?

You know what?

I can name everybody in
that photo, free of charge.

That way, you can be
on your merry way

and not have me
involved at all.

The fact you're willing
to do that

tells me you're exactly
the person I need.

Someone I can trust,

someone who knows the town
and its people.

Besides, what's the worst
that could happen?

You're right, maybe some good
can come out of this.

But there could also be some
unintended consequences.

Money and gratitude don't
always go hand in hand.

There is a condition
on the gifts,

stating that they
must be personal,

and relate to something
that really matters

to the recipient.

Doesn't necessarily mean
just throwing money around.

Alright.

Okay, fine. You're right, Mary.

Congratulations. You've got
yourself a lawyer.

Terrific.

I'd like to get going
as soon as possible.

Who do we start with?

Well, easy.

We don't just roll
into town and ask people

what their deepest
desires are.

Alright? We gotta go slowly.

We gotta find a way to
integrate you into the town.

Sounds like you have
some sort of plan.

Care to share?

Yeah.

Let's first start with
your approachability.

How do you feel about
a make-under?

[scoffs]

I absolutely do not need
a makeover.

[chuckles]

I didn't say makeover.

A make-under.

[pleasant music]

Well, you know what they say.

When in Rome.

So... Mary.

What's your background?

Not exactly sure
what you're asking me.

How did you get involved
with the Lane Foundation?

I'm very close with
the daughter, Evie Lane.

You could say
we're inseparable.

How about school?

Where did you go to college?

I went to several
different colleges.

Several?

Did you major in mischief?

[small chuckle] No,
nothing like that.

I just get excited
about something,

and once I get into
the day-to-day of it,

I find out it's not for me.

Anyway.
Tell me about you.

How did you end up being
the one lawyer

in this one-lawyer town?

Well, I, uh...

I went...

I went to law school at
the University of Virginia.

Hm. It's a top 10 law school,
isn't it?

Yes, it is.

And I, uh...

I did quite well,
if I do say so myself.

I could've signed with
any law firm I wanted to

in the country after
I graduated.

Huh. Why didn't you?

Because I was loyal
to Brookswood.

When I didn't have
the resources

to pay for my tuition,
everyone pulled together

and helped fund a
scholarship for me.

So, I wanted to give back.

Provide good legal services
to this town.

Very noble endeavor.

Similar to the Lane family
wanting to give back,

due to the generosity
that was shown to them.

Don't you think?

So... why law?

My father, actually.

Best person I've ever known.

Hm.

I wanted to be just like him.

He told me that to be
an officer of the court,

you have to hold yourself to
the highest ethical standard.

He had this saying.

You should engage in anything
that you don't wanna read about

on the front page of
the New York Times.

Like winning the title

of Brookswood's most
eligible bachelor?

I see somebody's been gossiping
with Mrs. King.

She did the gossiping,
I did the listening.

Well... what do you think?

It's just what I was afraid of.

Despite trying to dress
you down, you...

you look terrific.

We'll just do the best we can.

Great.

Are you sure you got it,
do you want a hand?

Oh... sure.

Thank you.

Uh... listen, if you don't have
any plans tonight,

I'd like
to take you to dinner.

Oh, um... well...

I'm flattered,
truly flattered.

But I'd prefer to keep
things between us

on a professional basis.

[scoffs]

I wasn't asking you out.

It's a working dinner.

Of course.

Yeah, working dinner.
Yes.

Great.

And I can try out
my new look.

Great.

*

* See the snow fall
on your shoes *

* ...those winter blues. *

* all the yuletide
spirit's high *

What?

Don't let the appearance
deceive you,

the food here
is excellent.

Better than the snack bar?

You know, the owner went to
culinary school in Paris.

You're making that up.

Highest ethical standard.
Remember?

I guess I'll just have to
take your word for it.

That's the woman that was
taking pictures earlier.

Yeah, Mrs. King says
her name's Mary Dawson.

Doesn't know much else
about her just yet but, uh...

says she's here on business.

I'll go spy.

No, no! You stay right
where you are.

Kyle's obviously here
on a date.

He wouldn't bring her here
on a date

unless he never
wants to see her again.

You're a bad man, Paul.

[laughing]

Pull up that picture
on your phone.

Yeah.

See... that's Jack Marshall.

Owner of the diner
35 years ago.

And that's Jack Marshall,

owner of the diner,
present day.

A working dinner.

Yeah.

Hmm. [chuckles]

Evening, Kyle.

Hey, Jack. Um...
I want you to meet Mary Dawson.

I think I saw you earlier
taking pictures of the diner.

Uh... Mary and I are old friends

and she's here from New York
to help me with a project.

Welcome to Brookswood, Mary.
Your first meal is on me.

Oh, please, you don't
have to do that.

Take the offer!

As soon as you taste the food,

you're never gonna wanna
pay for it.

Don't mind Paul.

I insist.

Okay. Well, what do you
consider your signature dish?

Chicken pot pie.

Great. I'll have that.

When in Rome.

Usual for you?

Yes, sir.

Yeah, I don't know.

I would've preferred a cover
story with a little more flair.

Really?

Maybe then you
should've mentioned

that little sightseeing tour
you did before you hired me.

Wait a minute.

You just flat out lied to him
about who I am,

Mr. "highest
ethical standard".

Okay, wait. Another rule of law
passed down by my father.

You can bend the law,
you just can't break the law.

Hmm.

Is there anything else I should
know before we proceed?

Probably.

What?

Nice, clean plate.
I like that.

You must've been really hungry.

Guilty as charged.

I was actually telling
Mary here

about some of
the stories around the town.

Do you remember the one about

the little girl that was born
here on Christmas Eve?

Do I? I remember it like
it was yesterday.

So, listen.

We were having a small
gathering here.

It was the unofficial
town council.

There was a young mother
driving home

to spend Christmas
with her family.

She went into an early labor
on the road.

Kate Austin, that's our
town doctor,

delivered that little girl
right here in this diner.

The doc realized there was
some kind of a problem,

so Roy and Claire, that's our
fire chief and our sheriff,

rushed them
to the hospital.

Surgery saved that
little girl's life.

That's... that's some story.

And when you think about it,

if that young mother had gone
anywhere else,

who knows what
would have happened.

Now, if that isn't a genuine
Christmas miracle...

I don't know what is.

A lovely story made even better
by a wonderful meal.

My compliments to the chef.

My pleasure.

Come again any time.

Uh... you want those potatoes?

Yeah, no, still working.

Well, the good news is that
the rest of the people

in that photograph still live
here in Brookswood.

Okay, good. Finish up.
Let's get moving.

Huh? Oh, no, no, no.
There's no rush.

It's... it's pretty late.

Things move a bit slower here
than in New York.

How soon do you think
we could connect with them?

Uh...I got a pretty good idea
where we can find Roy Garland,

the fire chief, so...

Why don't we meet
tomorrow afternoon?

Wow. That is...
that is slow.

Yeah, well, you'll get
used to it.

[chuckles]

[upbeat Christmas music]

Well... welcome to our
annual tradition.

This is the Christmas
tree jamboree.

This is quite the operation.

Who fits the bill for all this?

It's all volunteers.

Ah, here's the king
of volunteers right here.

Roy Garland.
How you doing?

Great. You?

Roy, I want you to
meet somebody.

This is Mary Dawson.

Mary is gonna be working
with me up until Christmas.

Oh, welcome, Mary.

This is impressive.

Oh, it's getting there.

We'll have everything up
on its feet by the weekend

for the grand opening.

Hey, Roy. Um...

just wondering, does Santa
have his elf yet?

He does not. Did you have
someone in mind?

Oh, I was just thinking
that Mary here would be

a good candidate.

I could not agree more.

Oh..., well, uh...

You know, I... I might
be under-qualified.

Yeah, 'cause I don't have any
previous elven experience, so...

I'll teach you everything
you need to know.

It's all about being friendly,
cheerful, upbeat, and positive.

Even when there's an
overexcited five-year-old

kicking you in the shins

with all of his tiny
but powerful might.

How could I say no?
Seriously. How?

There we go.

Nice, huh?

Yeah.
Yeah, it's very... Christmassy.

You know what?

Maybe I'll just
order my own.

That way it's my size.

Okay, well... suit yourself.

[laughs]

It's only for a few nights
and starts on Friday.

Great. Can't wait.

-Nice to meet you.
-See ya.

Hey, uh... counselor.

Next time you volunteer me
for something else,

just give me a heads up first.

What are you talking about?

I'm doing exactly
what I was hired to do.

This way, you're gonna be able
to blend in,

and you might even get
an inside track

on what Roy wants
for his Christmas wish.

You know, I think that we're
doing pretty well.

You've already met two of
the people in the photograph,

and you just got
here yesterday.

I think you hired
the right guy.

I sometimes have difficulty

seeing the forest
for the trees.

Well, I have a deadline
on another contract

with another client,
so uh...

I have to take off.
But maybe I'll see you later?

Sure. Yeah.

I still have some more
exploring to do.

-Oh.
-Hmm.

Have fun.

[sighs]

[door bell jingles]

Slow day?

Well, it's always kinda quiet
after the lunch rush.

Nice tree.

Can I help decorate?

Far be it from me to turn down
some free labor.

I'll even make you a cup of
cheer for your efforts

after we're done.

Deal.

What's a cup of cheer?

Oh, you're gonna love it,
and if you don't love it, well..

you can't beat the price.

[both chuckle]

You know...

when Kyle asked me about
the story of the little girl,

it got me to thinking...

...about that night.

We take photos
of special people

who are passing through
the diner during the holidays,

and we make those photos
into Christmas ornaments.

I thought this one might have
a particular significance.

You look just like your mom.

[sighs]

You got me.
I am, in fact, Evie Lane.

[chuckles]

What gave me away?

Striking family resemblance.

Also, the pendant you're
wearing is the same one

your mom was wearing
that night.

So, what brings you back
to Brookswood?

It's a long story.

Perfect.
I love long stories.

[laughs]

Come have a seat.

Here you go.

I'm not sure if you know,
but my mother has become

quite the well-known
entrepreneur.

Oh, well, good for her.

I remember chatting with her
about her business plan

when you were
in the hospital.

Really?

Yeah, I could tell she had
a real passion for it.

Yes, she is a very
passionate lady.

Right now, her passion is
sending me here

in an effort
to reward all the people

who helped us the night
I was born.

You don't owe us anything.
We were happy to help.

Oh, well, tell that
to my mother.

She insists I have
an obligation

to use my good fortune

to promote the well-being
of others,

not just support
my own lifestyle.

So, why the secret identity?

Well, whenever I get to know
new people,

it's hard for me to tell
if they like me for me

or just my money.

The plan was to get to know
everyone without preconception,

perform some anonymous
acts of kindness,

and then vanish without anyone
knowing why I was here.

Does Kyle know who you are?

He knows me as Mary Dawson.

Kyle's pretty sharp.

I think he's gonna figure it
out sooner rather than later.

I will cross that bridge
when I come to it.

Mmm!

That's delicious.

Old Marshall family recipe.

Wow.

Tell me what I can do
to help you.

Do you have a Christmas wish?

I have absolutely everything
I need right here.

Okay, well, maybe you don't
need anything,

but there must be something
you've always wanted.

Please, indulge me.
Think big!

I have an unlimited
bank account.

Make it the biggest
Christmas wish

you could possibly imagine.

My mother knows a lot of
very influential people.

Maybe we could, I don't know,
create an opportunity for you

to do something you never
had a chance to do.

Like take a trip
or learn to play piano

from a concert pianist.

Oh! Open a cup of cheer
coffee stand in Times Square.

Maybe when I've known you
a little longer,

you can pry it out of me.

Well, you've known me since
the day I was born.

[chuckles]

You're a sharp one, too.

I take after my mother.
Sometimes more than I realize.

Okay, let me think on it.

I promise you I will keep your
secret identity a secret.

But, here. This is for you.

What is this?

Early birthday present.

You tuck that away.

No, no, no.
Don't open it now.

Not now.

[VO] Anyone born in my diner

is entitled to free meals
for life.

Signed, Jack Marshall.

Why does this town have to be
the nicest place on Earth?

*

* There's a bit of cold
with a chance of snow... *

So, I hear you're gonna be
Santa's elf at the jamboree.

Wow, news travels fast
in this town.

Telephone, television,
tell-a-local.

I just knew you couldn't
avoid having some fun

while you were here.

You were absolutely right.

* ...it's Christmas,
everyone's together *

Gingerbread 57.

-I repeat, Gingerbread 57.
-Oh.

Nutcracker 32.

I repeat, Nutcracker 32.

Nativity 41.
I repeat, Nativity 41.

Bows of holly, 12.

Are you close?

*

Bingo!

Oh!
We have a winner!

Mary wins the final prize
of the night.

Congratulations!

* ...it's Christmas,
it's Christmas. *

Wow.
A holiday gift sampler.

From Lane Cosmetics.

Oh, you hit the jackpot, honey.

Look at all the samples
you get.

*...because it's Christmas *

[phone ringing]

[phone ringing]

[groans]

Nobody I know would call me
this early.

Not a morning person,
I'll put that in my log.

What log? Who is this?

This is Kyle.

Your lawyer, Kyle.
Kyle Newman.

You'd better have a good reason
for this wake-up call.

Well, I'm just calling to let
you know that Dr. Austin

always eats breakfast at 7:30
at the diner.

So?

So... she's quite busy.

So, unless you want to
fake a medical emergency,

this might be our only way
to get face-to-face with her.

How life-threatening would
it have to be?

It's not on the table,
I was being facetious.

Can we do this when I'm
a little more put together?

Why, were you up all night
playing Christmas bingo?

Ugh, this town.

You know what they say.
Early bird gets--

Don't you dare finish
that sentence.

What about carpe diem?
You snooze, you lose.

Uh...

first come, first served.

Fine, you win. No more cliches.
I will be there ASAP.

[phone ringing]

Hello?

Just calling to make sure
you didn't fall back asleep.

You're annoying in the morning.

Some call it being helpful.

[chuckles] Oh, this rock star
does not need any help.

See you in five.

-[tires screech]
-[car horn honking]

Oh, no, no, no, no, no.

[siren chirps]

Oh!

[knocking]

[chuckles nervously]

[exhales]

Good morning.

You backed up without checking
your rear view, huh?

I did. I did. I am terribly,
terribly sorry.

And you were driving
while on your cell phone?

Yeah.

Yeah, I was.

Wait a minute. Are you
Sheriff Bedford?

Indeed I am.

Oh, it's so great
to meet you.

I'm E-- err...

Mary. Mary Dawson.

You sure about that?

Yep. Yep, that's me.
[laughs nervously]

Aren't you Kyle's friend?

I am, yes.

Actually, I'm headed to meet
him at the diner right now, so.

How's your day going so far?

Quiet morning until you almost
smashed into me.

Yeah. Again, I am...

I'm terribly, terribly sorry.

I'm normally a really,
really good driver.

So, um... what happens now?

Do I... do I get a ticket,
pay a fine?

I'm what you would call
a three-strike sheriff.

Oh.

One strike for almost
hitting me.

Right.

Two strikes for
the cell phone.

Mm.

So I'm gonna let you off
with a warning.

I just need to see your license
for the record.

Yes, of course.

Whoo.

*

I am terribly sorry, Sheriff,
but I only just realized

that I don't have my license
with me this morning.

Unfortunately, that's
three strikes.

So... is that bad?

[camera flash whines]

[camera flash whines]

No smiling, ma'am.

[lock clicks]

Hey. Missed you at the diner.

This is not funny,
not funny at all.

Cup of cheer,
compliments of Jack.

Everyone around town knows
I was arrested, don't they?

Oh yeah. What were you doing
driving without a license?

Must have accidentally
left it behind in New York.

Well, don't worry about it,

you're being released on
your own recognizance.

And as your lawyer,

instead of a fine,
I got you community service.

Community service?

Yeah.

It's gonna be fine.
It's easy.

Come on, I'll drive.

Well, on the plus side,

you're gonna be supervised
by Sheriff Bedford,

so it's gonna give you
a chance to fish

for some information.

I have to give you credit
where credit's due.

I'd rather have cash
or check

when it comes time to
tally up your bill.

I was trying to pay you
a compliment.

You seem to find the silver
lining in every situation.

Thanks.

Appreciate that.

Sheriff!

Got a repeat offender
over here.

Please don't call me that.

Ms. Dawson.

Kyle.

Nice of you to give our
repeat offender a lift.

My pleasure.

Can we just call me a,
I don't know, volunteer?

[all laugh]

Kyle, before you leave,

we have to discuss
your parking tickets.

Oh, well, the...
meter was broken, so...

I think we can let
that one go.

There was 16 of them.

So... how about a little
community service?

16? Wow.

Welcome to the Brookswood
Christmas swap meet.

[laughs]

No cash transactions,
only trades.

Something we set up for
the community, so that everyone

has access to anything they
need during the holiday season.

This is really a terrific idea.

Well, what's our part in it?

I am deputizing you both
as peace officers.

[Evie giggles]

Our job is to keep the peace
and facilitate the trades.

Some of the transactions
can get a little heated,

so it's best to have
adult supervision

should anyone
get a little unruly.

Oh, here. I can take your coat.

-Thank you.
-Yeah.

So... how long have you been
sheriff... Sheriff?

[chuckles]

Coming up on 36 years now.

36 years? Wow, that's longer
than I've been alive.

Well, at this point
in my life,

I've come to favor
experience over youth.

Have you lived in Brookswood
all your life?

Mm-hmm.

Born and raised.

Were you always interested
in being the sheriff?

You ask a lot of questions.

Are you doing a true crime
podcast or something?

Oh, no, I'm just making
friendly conversation.

Serving in law enforcement

has been a time-honored
tradition in my family.

My great-great-grandfather
was the first lawman here

over 200 years ago.

Wow, 200 years. That's...
that's impressive.

Well, sadly, the family line of
law enforcement ends with me.

I'm sure you can find a way

to keep your family's name
alive somehow.

I hope so.

-[woman] Hi Sheriff.
-Hi.

[both chuckle]

[Instrumental Christmas tune]

*

Job well done.

We've managed an entire day
at the swap meet

with only one outbreak of
overly aggressive haggling.

Thank you.

Good job.

[laughing]

Hey.

See something you like?

Yeah.

Huh.

My dad used to make these
when I was a kid.

Wow.

I don't have anything to
trade for it, though.

Bracelet for the jar?

Seems fair.

Oh, that... that
looks expensive.

Oh, no, it's costume jewelry.
Can't be worth more than $100.

Thank you.

That was really nice.

I'll pay you back.

No cash transactions.

You'll have to trade it for
something of equal value later.

Okay.

Thank you.

Thank you!

That was a really
fun afternoon.

Maybe I should get in trouble
more often

so I can do some
more community service.

I was joking.

[laughing]

Just a joke.

People tend to
take volunteering

very seriously
around here.

They value time over money.

The most valuable resource
anyone can give of themselves.

That's a lovely thought.
Thank you again, Sheriff.

Kyle, drive safe.

And Mary... try to stay out
of trouble

for the rest
of your trip.

[laughs] I will, I promise.

-Bye-bye.
-Bye.

Hey, what do you think
about having

a monument made for
the Sheriff?

In honor of her and her family.

I think that's a great idea.

Yeah?

Yeah, I think it's
very thoughtful.

Hey, you went to high school
here, didn't you?

Uh, yeah.
Yeah, I did.

Any of these trophies yours?

Uh... yeah, actually.

That one right there.

2006 state spelling
bee champion.

Pretty impressive, huh?

I-M-P-R-E-S-S-I-V-E.
Impressive.

[laughs]

Almost as impressive as
you being

the Brookswood's
most eligible bachelor.

Yes, well...

It's gonna haunt me
for a while.

Although, truth be told,
my practice does well.

Just not well enough
to settle down

and have a family
just yet.

What if you won the lottery?

What if you didn't have to work
to earn a living?

Well, then I'd have a whole new
set of problems.

Might have to find somebody
who loves me for me

and not for all my money.

You know what I mean?

Yeah.

Yeah, I know exactly
what you mean.

Hey, Kyle.

Yeah?

There's something about me
I want you to know.

Okay.

How's it going?

Hey! What's up, doc?

How is Brookswood's
favorite son

doing this fine evening?

Very well.
Very good.

Dr. Kate, I'd like you
to meet somebody.

This is Mary Dawson.

It's a pleasure to meet you.

What are you doing here?

Just paying a house call
to Evelyn.

Evelyn?

Mrs. King.

And it's freezing out here.
Why don't we go inside?

-Yeah.
-Yeah.

Hello!

You are all just in time
to join us.

What are you working on?

Christmas gift bags for
some of the kids in town.

You are my last visit
for the day,

so I can
stay for a while.

But first, let's do
our checkup.

Uh... check up?
Is everything okay?

Just have to monitor
my blood pressure.

Nothing too serious.

Why don't you two team up?

Why not?
That sounds like fun.

Good. Let me take your coats.

Thank you.

-Have fun you two.
-Yeah.

No witty pushback?

I've reached the "if you
can't beat 'em,

join 'em" stage
of my visit.

Surrendered to the festivities.

Oh, there's some really
nice things here.

Oh! [laughs]

Do you know, does Mrs. King
pay for all this herself?

You know, I'm actually a little
curious about that myself.

I'll have to ask her.

Alright, well, I will handle
the decorating.

You fill the bags
when they're ready.

Yes, ma'am.

So, why did the doctor
refer to you

as Brookswood's
favorite son?

Uh... well, um...

I was raised by my dad...

until he died when I was
a teenager.

I'm so sorry to hear that.

I was raised by my mom.

I just... I can't imagine
being on my own at that age.

Well, you see, that's
the thing, though. I never...

I never felt like I was
on my own.

Jack...

Roy, Claire, the doc.
I mean, they all...

came together... and they
raised me.

I mean, Mrs. King
and her husband,

they were my legal guardians
until I was an adult.

Brookswood really is
a special place, isn't it?

I mean, it is to me.

The people here, they just...

they look out for each other.

I mean, take the doc,
for instance.

She's had her practice here
for 40 years. Solo.

Just her?

Yeah, just her.

I mean, she could've gone off
and made a fortune

working at
some big city hospital.

But she decided to stay here.

Bandage up kids' scraped knees,
console families.

Deliver babies in snowstorms.

I couldn't imagine this place
without her.

I couldn't agree more.

I think we did it.

Yeah.

Yeah, looks good.

Wow.

It's gonna be a few
lucky kids who get those.

Do you think you have it in you
to make a few more?

Sure. It's kinda fun, actually.

Why not?

Evelyn, I wanted to ask you,

where do you get the toys and
supplies for these bags?

Oh, Brookswood has its very own
Secret Santa.

Really?

Oh. Did you, uh...
did you know about this?

No, I didn't.

This is the first
I'm hearing about it.

Well, that's 'cause
it's a secret.

We don't like to broadcast it,
but every year, December 1st,

all unpaid pediatric bills
are suddenly paid.

And we get a shipment of toys
and other goodies to share

with the local kids.

Mm-hmm.

Do you have any idea
who the Secret Santa is?

We have our suspicions,

but, you know, we don't wanna
really look into it.

Why not?

We don't wanna do anything
to spoil the magic.

Well, we said we were gonna do
a few more, so, uh...

I'll grab 'em.

Great.

[upbeat cheerful music]

[indistinct chatter]

[camera clicks]

[phone ringing]

It's Evie.

Excuse me.

Hello, my darling daughter.

Uh... hey, Mom.

Quick question.

Are you the Brookswood
Secret Santa?

Brookswood has a Secret Santa?

Unpaid pediatric hospital bills
completely paid off

in the month of December.

Anonymous toy deliveries.

Sounds like you've been
in touch with Dr. Austin.

Wait. Wait a minute.

You told me you didn't know

who the people were
in the photo.

No, I told you I needed you to
find out who they are

in order
to reward their kindness.

Okay, what are you not
telling me here?

I tried a long time ago

to reward everyone directly
involved for their kindness.

Once I had the resources
to do so.

They all politely declined.

So, you sent me on an
impossible mission

you knew
was destined to fail?

Mom, this will cost me
my trust fund.

I have faith that you are
resourceful enough

and creative enough
and motivated enough

to succeed where I could not.

I don't understand why you
wanted me to do this.

For you?

No, for you.

I wanted you to learn what I
learned and see what I saw.

Sweetheart, it's not about
the act of giving.

It's about learning to give.

I have no words.

Greatness is not measured
by what you have,

but by what you give.

[sighs]

[call ends]

Evie?

[groans]

Is everything okay?

Yeah, just a typically

unpleasant conversation
with my mother.

Is there anything I can
do to help?

No. No. But, thank you
for offering.

In that case, do you wanna
join me for a skate?

I've been up to my eyeballs
in legal.

I think we could both
use the break.

No, thanks.

What? Why? You don't like
to ice skate?

Oh, I just don't know how
to ice skate so.

You don't know how?

No.

Do you wanna learn?

[chuckles nervously]

Coast is clear.

You're not gonna be able
to skate from over there.

How do you know unless you try?

Let me help you.

Give me your hands.

It's alright.

One... two...

There you go.

Wow.

Just one after the other.

Ooh...

There you go.

I'm doing it.

[laughing]

Don't let go, okay?

[laughing]

Oh...

[laughing]

Where are we going?

[laughter]

[Evie gasps]

[both laugh]

There's something I wanna
tell you.

And I hope it doesn't
spoil everything, but...

Well, here it goes.

My name isn't Mary Dawson.

I'm actually Evie Lane.

I'm the little girl
who was born in a diner.

I know.

What?

I know who you are.

You know?
Wait, how do you know?

Did Jack tell you?

No.

Jack knows?
How does he know?

Yeah, he figured it out.
But how do you know?

When you traded that
thousand dollar bracelet

at the swap meet.

The vendor felt conflicted
and called me.

I just figured
you had a reason.

And you'd tell me
when you were ready.

Turns out I was right.

Oh, you're gonna think
I'm ridiculous.

Oh, I think we're past
me thinking you're ridiculous.

Try me.

Whenever I meet new people,
it's hard for me to tell

if they like me for me
or for my money.

And the alias let me leave all
that baggage behind.

And allowed me to see the world
from a different perspective.

And I like what I see in you
and the people of this town.

Not only that, I like how you
see me... as a person.

Not just as a billionairess
you can gain advantage from.

Honestly, when all
is said and done,

you may have more
financial resources

at your disposal than I do.

What?

What... what is that
supposed to mean?

Well... if I don't find a way

to reward everyone that
helped us,

by midnight on Christmas Eve...

...my mother will transfer
control of my trust

to a charity of her choosing.

So...

...it's about money?

Look, I know what
you're thinking.

Poor little rich girl.

My mother has feelings

about the way I've been
living my life.

Maybe she's not entirely wrong.

Sending me here is her way
of making me earn my trust fund

rather than just having it
handed it to me, so.

I get it.

I get it, and time is
ticking away, so...

I seem to remember

somebody's volunteered to be
Santa's elf tonight.

So, you're not mad?

No.

Not even a little?

I'm not mad.

Yeah, we should get on that.

Yeah.

Do you want me to
help you back?

Oh, all good.

I think I've got this now.

Okay, I'm gonna...

[Evie squeals]

Maybe you need a hand.

* O Christmas tree *

* O Christmas tree, *

* how true your leaves
unchanging *

Roy... have you heard of
the Brookswood Secret Santa?

I have not.

But only because it's a secret.

[laughing]

What if I was to tell you

a Secret Santa
reached out to us

and they wanna do something
for you... specifically?

Really?

Me?

Yeah.

No, they don't have to do that.

No, Roy, before you say no,

if you could make a
Christmas wish, just one,

what might you wish for?

This for real?

I can confirm that it is. Yeah.

I don't know.

It still doesn't feel right.

Roy... it's real.
And you deserve it.

Okay, wow.

Well, I guess there's a lot
of stuff I would wish for.

Well, make your wish.

We'll see if the Secret Santa
can make it come true.

Our fire engine.

So old we can't even get parts
to fix it anymore.

I've submitted a request
to the mayor for years,

but she just doesn't seem
to have it in the budget.

Look, I know this is a big ask.

I don't think it's too big.
Not at all.

Wouldn't you agree, Kyle?

Yeah. We'll reach out
and see what we can do.

* Feel it coming
like winter wings. *

Ho, ho, ho!

Ho, ho, ho!

[cheers and applause]

* all together with family
and friends. *

Welcome, all of Brookswood,

to the 35th annual
Christmas Tree Jamboree!

[cheers and applause]

*

Let the festivities begin!

Merry Christmas.

Merry Christmas.

Get your photo with Santa.
Single file, right behind me.

Follow me, guys.

Merry Christmas!

One, two, three.

Perfect!

*...meets boy from the sky *

[laughing]

Alright. You ready?

Big smile.
One, two, three.

* let your heart be
filled with light *

* the holidays are here. *

* tonight *

[whistle blows]

Cup of cheer?

Yes. Thank you.

I didn't figure you
for a hockey fan.

More of a hockey coach fan.

[chuckles]

Oh, yeah.
He's great with kids, isn't he?

He is.

What about you?
Do you have a family?

I have a son.
He's about the same age as you.

Oh. Are you planning on
spending Christmas together?

[sighs] Not this year.

Worried around town is...

that Brookswood's Secret Santa
is stepping up their game

a little bit this year.

As it turns out, the Secret
Santa is my mother.

I had my suspicions.

I guess that makes her

Brookswood's
Not-So-Secret Santa.

I was also informed that
she tried a long time ago

to reward everyone
for their generosity.

And you all politely declined.

Well, I didn't wanna say
anything earlier.

I thought it might
discourage you

from getting reconnected
with everyone.

Have you given any more thought
to your Christmas wish?

I have.

Oh, terrific.

Do you wanna tell me
what it is?

Well, my wish is that I want to
host your birthday party

in the diner on Christmas Eve.

I think you have this whole
wishing thing wrong.

You're supposed to wish for
something I can do to help you.

Knowing that you're here
and that you're well,

and that the act of kindness
that I had a hand in

35 years ago has brought us all
around for this moment.

Well... that's a big
enough reward for me.

Seven, six,
five, four, three, two, one!

-[horn]
-[cheering]

Look how proud he is.
Look at him over there.

Yeah!!!

Jack used his wish to host
my 35th birthday party

at the diner on Christmas Eve.

Wow. That sounds like
a hot ticket.

Hope I can get an invite.

You'll be my plus one.

I just... I wish there was
something I could do for him.

Do you know his son?

Jason. Yeah.

He, uh...

They had a falling out.

Yeah, I thought that
might be the case.

Well, Jack, he grew up
pretty poor.

So, everything he had,
he put towards the diner.

Try to give his family
a better life.

Money got tight,

and he had to pick between
his house and the diner.

He felt like the diner was more
important to the community.

And his son never forgave him.

Do you think there's any way
we could find his son?

I don't know where he is,
but I could look into it.

I am your lawyer, after all.

Right answer.

[cheerful music]

[secretary] A Jack Marshall
is on the line.

The owner of the diner
in Brookswood.

He claims it's
a personal call.

I'll take it.

This is Elizabeth Lane.

Hello there, Elizabeth,
this is Jack Marshall.

I don't know if you'll
remember me.

I remember you well, Jack.
How are you?

I can't complain.

Is there something
I can do for you?

No, uh...

Not for me.

There was something
I was hoping you might do

for yourself.

You have my undivided attention.

Okay, uh...

I've met Evie.

And through no fault
of her own,

I know why she's here.

Um...

She's made a really big splash
in our little community, and,

well, I thought it might be
nice for you to visit

so you could get
to see firsthand

everything she's doing
for the town.

It's important that Evie
complete this challenge

all on her own.

I understand.

If you should change your mind
about paying us a visit,

we're planning to celebrate
her birthday here at the diner

on Christmas Eve.

Well, I appreciate
the invitation.

Thank you for thinking of me.

I promise to let you know
if I can attend.

Okay.
Hope to see you soon.

[call ends]

[cheerful music]

I can't quite believe my eyes.

Here's the proper paperwork

granting full ownership to
Brookswood's fire department.

Thank you.

And thank the Secret Santa
for me.

This is amazing.

You're amazing.

It's for all you do
for the community

and all the people you help.

[laughs]

I'm just gonna go check it out.

[both] Go for it.

*

Wow.

Well, well, well.

I hear the cup of cheer here
is to die for.

Coming right up.

[laughs]

Elizabeth Lane,
and I do mean this.

You look like a
billion dollars.

As do you.

Wow.

Does Evie know you're here?

Uh, not yet. I thought
I would surprise her.

Well, I am glad
you decided to come.

So am I.

Wow.

Mmm!

Wow. This tastes just as good
as it did 35 years ago.

It does not disappoint.

Well... it rarely does.

I can't help but feel as though
I've traveled back in time.

Well, I guess maybe that makes
me your own personal ghost

of Christmas past.

Hmm.

So... how is she?

She is fitting right in.

I mean, it's almost as if
she was born here.

Listen, um... I hope you don't
mind but I wanted to ask.

Why did you send her here
on this secret mission?

My success has impacted her
more than myself.

People are always trying
to get close to Evie

to gain favor with me.

I was hoping that by sending
her here undercover,

she could meet some
good people

that she could
take at face value

and not always assume that they
had an ulterior motive.

Oh.

Well, for what it's worth...

If Evie were my daughter,

I would be extraordinarily
proud of how she turned out.

Thank you, Jack.

Thank you.

Get in there,
go meet Santa.

-One, two, three.
-[camera clicks]

Right this way.
You're next.

Get in there.

[camera clicks]

I didn't realize how charming
this town is at Christmas time.

Festive activities were not
exactly on the agenda

the last time you were here.

Oh, look. There she is.

Hey!

Great.

Um... you know what?

I'm gonna... I'm gonna be
right back, okay?

Well, there is my
darling daughter.

Mom, what are you doing here?

Well, Jack suggested
that I come and see

all the great things
that you have been doing.

And consider me impressed.

The fire engine was
a big swing.

I'm glad you got to see that.

But shouldn't you be
in New York?

This is your busiest
time of year.

I wanted to come here
and spend time with you.

Hey, the doc is here somewhere.

Oh, great.

Mom, this is Kyle Newman,
my attorney.

Kyle, this is my mother,
Elizabeth Lane.

It's a pleasure meeting you.

Likewise.

We haven't had an opportunity
to get the doc's wish just yet,

and, well, we're running
out of time.

I have an idea,
just leave it to me.

Hey, Kate. Kate.

Oh, my.

Hi.

This is my mother, Elizabeth.

She decided to join me
for the holidays.

And this is Dr. Kate Austin.

Nice to meet you.

Have we met somewhere before?

I'm sure our paths have crossed
somewhere along the line.

Kate, how's it going with that
search for your understudy?

Well...

not a lot of people getting
out of medical school

are interested in a
small town practice.

Insurance costs, staff.
It's a non-starter.

I just wish there was some way
to provide quality healthcare

to the Brookswood community
for another 40 years.

Well, maybe you're just
gonna have to do it

for another 40 years.

I would if I could.

[pleasant music]

How hard do you think it
would be to find a new doctor?

I wouldn't say impossible,
but maybe next to impossible.

Might I suggest
offering incentives

based on the time
they served?

Yeah, couldn't we set up
a scholarship?

Like what you did with
law school,

to guarantee
someone to return.

It's a nice idea, but maybe
we save that as a backup.

Medical school is like
a ten-year endeavor.

Yeah. Yeah, you're right.
Maybe for the future.

We need something
for right now.

Okay. What if we offered a
competitive salary, guaranteed?

Bonuses for every year
they maintain the practice.

Permanent housing.

We can pay their student loans
for every year they commit.

I know the commissioner
of health in New York.

She might be able to help
find a candidate.

But the doc is gonna want to
pick and train the candidate.

She has a certain level
of care

she's going to want her
successor to adopt.

Of course, that goes
without saying.

Do you, uh... you have
someplace to be?

Ah, yes, actually.

Uh... where are we going?

The Brookswood Secret Santa
is on a secret mission.

Let's hit the road.

Okay.

[pleasant music]

Uh... big lineup.

We drove two towns over
for eggnog?

Not exactly.

Like I said, it's gonna
be a surprise.

Huh.

Hey, do you remember
how we used to spend

your summer vacations
in small towns?

Going on sales trips
all across the country.

I do.

Honestly, sometimes
I miss those.

Well, not having money
wasn't easy,

but it certainly
made things less complicated.

Look, Mom, I didn't
understand it at first,

but you've given me a gift
that no amount of money

in the entire
world could buy.

The people who helped us,
it's like they stepped

right out of that photo
and into real life.

I can't quite explain it,

but it feels like some sort of
Christmas magic at work.

Aww, sweetie.

Okay, so if it's not
for the eggnog,

is it... the kiosk owner?

Good guess.

It's Jack's son.

I came here hoping we might
convince him

to reunite with his dad
in time for Christmas.

Okay. Is it... do you have
a little plan, or...?

I think we'll just have
to make it up as we go.

Story of my life.

-Hi.
-Hi there.

My name is Evie Lane.
This is my mother.

Elizabeth.

Pleasure to meet you.
What can I get you today?

Actually, I was hoping
I could get you

to come to Brookswood
to visit your dad.

[chuckles nervously]

[emotional music]

How can it be that 35 years
have gone by since then?

Snuck up on all of us.

One day at a time.

You know, it just
occurred to me.

I don't know why I didn't
think of this before.

Andrew, Kyle's dad, was here
that night you were born.

Really?

A lot of what happened that
night is a bit of a blur.

To be honest,

I don't have the best
recollection of it myself.

Well, why wasn't he
in the photo?

Because he was
the photographer.

It was also his idea to take up
the collection

to help you
and your mother.

Mm-hmm. That money
kept me, you,

and the dream of
Lane Cosmetics going.

His act of kindness gave us
both a second chance.

Kyle's dad's been gone
for more than a decade now.

Wait, what does this mean
for the wishing project?

Hmm. Not exactly sure.

Well, it would only make sense

that Andrew's wish gets passed
down to his next of kin.

Hmm.

[sighs]

Hmm.

[peaceful music]

He should be here pretty soon,
so we'll just hang out.

Oh, hey. How'd it go?

Good. Yeah, we're in
good shape.

I was just finishing up
some legal

on those Christmas wishes.

How are you doing?

Oh, yeah, we're getting close.

May have hit a minor snag,
but I'm working on it.

Did my tip on Jack's son
pay off?

Better than we could
have hoped.

[cheerful music]

Hello again.

Well, hello, old friend.
How you feeling about tonight?

About as ready as I could ever
be for the best birthday party

this town's ever seen.

How about you?

How are you feeling about
having a 35-year-old daughter?

Well, it feels basically
impossible,

given that I'm only
39 myself.

Hey, how old is your
son now, Jack?

Um...

Well, he's just a little older
than your Evie.

I'm ashamed to say, I've...

missed more birthdays
than I'd like to count.

It's been years now.

Well, maybe tonight

could make up for some
of those years.

Hey, Dad.

Jason.

I'm sorry, I...

I don't know what to say.

I missed you, too.

Oh, look at that.

It's not as much gray
as yours.

[laughing]

* I want so bad *

* to give you
all your wishes. *

[glasses clink]

This is a Christmas Eve
birthday surprise party.

The surprise is...

our new friend Mary is not
who she claims she is.

I am, actually, Evie Lane.

[chuckles]

I'm the little girl who
was born in the diner

35 years ago tonight.

[gasps]

This wishing project,
that my mother set in motion,

is our way of thanking you.

Without your willingness

to help a stranger in need
all those years ago...

[exhales]

I'm not sure either one of us
would be here tonight

celebrating with you guys.

Now, having said that,

I still have a few more
Christmas wishes to fulfill.

Dr. Kate Austin.

That is a list of 30 highly
qualified candidates.

All more than eager to take
over your practice

whenever you decide
to retire.

Thank you.

For everything.

I look forward to grilling
them in their interviews,

come the new year.

Thank you.

Sheriff Bedford, you're next.

We have commissioned an artist
out of New York

that's going to
work with you to design

a memorial to honor you
and your family.

It's for 200 years of
maintaining a stable community

that the people of Brookswood
can rely on.

Oh.

Thank you.

I'm genuinely touched
by your kindness.

Thank you.

Others who helped us
that night have already

received their wish.

Thank you.

So...

Everybody, let's raise
a glass tonight

to celebrate my beautiful
daughter's birthday.

And this wonderful town.

[all] Cheers!

Happy birthday!

Mm.

So, are you going to talk
to Kyle about his wish?

I will.

Hey, uh... I was thinking

maybe I could use
my trust fund

to do this sort
of thing full time.

You know, find some other acts
of kindness to pursue

in the new year.

Well, I would like that.

Hey, maybe that's something
we could do together.

I would love that, too.

Well, this couldn't get
any more magical.

It's your birthday,
it's Christmas Eve,

and we're celebrating
what you have accomplished,

which is truly...
truly incredible.

Oh... Mom.

Thank you for this opportunity.

I needed it.

I'm so proud.
I'm really proud.

[both chuckle]

[quiet conversation]

[chuckling]

Well...

You know, I have to admit
that when we started this,

I had my doubts, but...

You really... you really
pulled it off

in a spectacular fashion.

I could never have done it
without your help.

You know, I do have one last
wish to grant.

What?

No, we got everybody.
There's nobody left.

Jack told me that your dad was
here the night that I was born.

Not only was he the one
who took the photo,

but he was also the one
who started a collection plate

for a young, single mother
who was about to have

a whole lot of medical bills
to deal with.

I told you, he was the best.

Well, seeing as you're his son,
and you are also the best,

I thought it was only fair

that you get to make a wish
in his place.

No, I can't.
Come on, that's cheating.

No!

It's the law.

-Well, it's Elizabeth's law.
-Mmhmm.

[both laugh]

Okay.

Yeah, no, I, uh...

I know what I want.

I wish...

for a dinner with you.

A working dinner?

No.

Oh.

No, no, no.

This dinner is 100 percent
a non-working dinner.

[both laugh]

*

* Every horizon
I've owned *

* saw the lights
of the city *

* from highways
and airplanes... *

Hey, let's take a picture!

Oh, I think you're
the photographer.

[laughing]

* brings me back,
it always brings me back *

Um... yeah.
Everybody get in there.

Alright, everybody say
Merry Christmas!

[all] Merry Christmas!

[camera clicks]

* Oh, oh, oh... *

* I've crossed many miles *

* Oh, oh, oh... *

* There's no place
like home *

* Oh, oh, oh ... *

* I've crossed many miles. *

*

* Oh, oh, oh... *

* Through wide open spaces
and steady lights *

* For no matter where I go *

* There's no place like home. *

* Oh, oh, oh... *

* Oh, oh, oh... *