Original subtitles

Babe, I have no idea how you drink those.

What, a pumpkin spice latte?

Yeah.

Sir, this is a fall essential.

You know what?

- Try it. - No, thank you.

Just taste it.

See?

It's good, right?

- Not bad at all. - Yeah.

Thank you, it's mine now.

No, give it back to me.

Yes, that's mine.

That is good.

So how are you feeling about our Christmas?

Yeah, just excited to see what Santa has in store for me.

I'm being serious.

Your parents are coming to meet my aunt and uncle

for the first time and we're planning

a Christmas Eve engagement party.

- It's a lot. - Yeah.

And this was all your bright idea, might I remind you.

I know, what was I thinking?

Well, to your defense, you were thinking you don't want

our families to meet at our wedding for the first time.

And you thought, what better place than some place

that means so much to you and your family.

I know, and I'm really excited

to take you to my aunt and uncle's house.

I have so many great memories there.

I can't wait to see.

Yes.

It's just everything else that I'm nervous about.

Everything else?

What's there to be nervous about?

Do you remember when I met your mom and dad

for the first time?

That was a long time ago.

And they love you.

- You know that. - Yeah.

- Yeah. - I know.

But my aunt and uncle, they-

Your aunt and uncle are amazing human beings.

Yes, they are.

They're like my surrogate parents since I lost mine.

I'm just, you know, kind of worried

how everyone's gonna react to each other.

Well, look, my parents are gonna be

in unfamiliar territory, all right?

No royal crown, no royal ceremonies, no palace to hide

behind, just regular old guests in your home.

- Mm-hm. - Mm-hm.

- Yep. - And they're lovely people.

And it's Christmas.

And it's happy times, nothing to worry about, so just.

You are so positive.

And you love it.

I do.

Be careful.

Ah, there they are.

Ah, Aunt Gina.

Baby.

It's so good to see you.

Look at you, just so beautiful.

Thank you, so do you.

Aw, Uncle.

Prince smiling.

It is so good of you to grace our home with your presence.

Oh.

Oh, we forgot to roll out the red carpet

for the prince and princess.

I knew I forgot something.

Guys, please, stop.

You never rolled out the red carpet for me.

Oh yeah, keep smiling

'cause that's never gonna happen.

I tried.

All right, you two, come on in and get out of the cold

because we were just about to have some hot toddies.

Ooh, yes.

- Huh? - All right?

Yeah.

Oh, thank you so much, I appreciate it.

This is a really beautiful home.

- Thank you very much. - Thank you.

This is great.

Oh, yeah.

So, Uncle Ray.

Yes, sir.

We haven't seen you since your retirement.

How's it been?

Man, incredible.

I can do whatever I want

whenever I want to.

I enjoy listening to a lot of jazz.

My father loves jazz.

It's good.

Well, Ray is listening to jazz all day.

I am now growing my real estate clientele

by canvassing for new clients.

- Oh. - Mm-hm.

If you're ever looking for real estate, let's talk.

That's a done deal.

Yes, thank you Auntie Gina.

Of course, honey, you never know

when a lead will present itself.

As an agent, you are always selling.

You mean always closing.

Oh, what do you know?

Mandla, we are excited

and we're absolutely looking forward

to meeting your parents.

We are?

Yeah, we really are excited.

Yes, well, I'm excited for everyone to meet.

Yeah, absolutely.

My parents are great people.

A bit traditional, but you're gonna love them.

Oh, well, we are,

we're all for traditional.

It's just that this is our house and our traditions.

We're not going to switch it up too much.

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

You wouldn't have to do that.

No, no, no, this is your home and we are just guests.

Yeah, so don't act weird or anything

just act like they're your future in-laws because they are.

Okay.

I will try.

I'm just saying oil and water, you know, usually don't mix.

Oh, no, no, in fact, Auntie Gina, you

and my mother have so much in common.

- Really? - Yeah, yeah.

It's more like oil and oil.

Oh.

They're gonna get along just fine then.

So, hotty-toddy time.

Yes.

For you, babe.

Favorite.

Okay, what are we toasting to?

To meeting my parents.

Cheers.

Oh, Nicole just texted me

and she said she wants to see us.

Oh, that's amazing, babe.

Who's Nicole?

Oh, she's my friend that I used to play with

when I would come and visit.

Yeah, you're gonna love her.

Well, if you love her,

I'm pretty sure I'm going to love her too.

So, how's everything, how do you feel?

My parents arrive tomorrow.

Yeah.

I'm a little nervous to be honest.

I just, I really want everything to go well.

Babe, everything's gonna be fine.

All right?

We're in this beautiful home, in this beautiful town.

We've got our friends and family coming

to celebrate our love.

We have absolutely nothing to be worried about.

♪ On the first day of Christmas ♪

♪ My true love gave to me

♪ A partridge in a pear tree

♪ On the second day of Christmas ♪

♪ My true love gave to me

♪ Two turtle doves and a partridge in a pear tree ♪

♪ On the third day of Christmas ♪

♪ My true love gave to me

♪ Three French hens, two turtle doves ♪

♪ And a partridge in a pear tree ♪

What a beautiful home.

A home's beauty is not important.

It's the occupants that matter.

This is Riley's family, after all.

And it means a lot to Mandla.

Well, I guess I'm still having a hard time

with the disruption of tradition.

Oh, there they are.

Mandla.

Mother.

How are you, my darling?

You look well.

Thank you.

You're lingering too long.

Father.

Thank you, son.

King Chidike?

And Queen Nobantu.

It has been too long.

Your family has a lovely home.

Thank you so much.

It's so wonderful to see you again.

You two.

Speaking of the devil.

Welcome, welcome, welcome, welcome.

King Chidike and Queen Nobantu,

this is my Aunt Gina and Uncle Ray.

- We're huggers. - Yes.

Bring it in, bring it in, right there.

Hello.

Welcome and Merry Christmas.

Merry Christmas to you, too.

And thank you for hosting this.

It's such a great pleasure to meet Riley's family.

Oh, and it's an honor to meet you.

Oh, glorious one.

Did I say that right?

Yes, you did.

Say, don't you guys wear crowns?

Oh, baby, them crowns are probably

too heavy to get through TSA.

Whoa.

Buh.

Are they mocking us?

No, no, they're just joking.

And listen, we're just having fun, that's all.

Breaking the ice.

You do have jokes down in South Africa, don't you?

- Yes. - Okay.

But the duties of running a kingdom require

a more serious disposition.

We were about to grab some breakfast.

Maybe we should head inside and have something to eat.

Yeah.

I'll get the bags.

- Man. - Thank you, Ray.

Yeah, your parents are lovely.

Oh, thank you.

Your mom's a hoot.

Hey, come on guys.

What are you still sitting there for?

We usually serve ourselves.

No, mother, father, stay right where you are.

Riley and I will get you some plates.

- Right, Riley? - Yes.

Whoa, whoa, whoa, whoa.

What's going on here?

Oh, we're just gonna get their plates for them.

Oh, no you're not.

No, they can do it.

It's not hard, at all.

Okay?

You just get a plate, come on over here.

Pick up some sausage and some donuts and some fruit

put it on that plate, bring it right to the table.

And then voila, easy peasy.

We are familiar with the concept.

Okay, I understand,

but I'm sure that you're so used

to having your servants do everything for you.

And they're not here.

I understand.

Aunt Gina.

Yes.

You really don't mind.

Oh, I know, honey, and I'm sure they don't mind either.

Do you, your Highnesses-sis?

No, no, no, please.

Stay exactly where you are.

I've got your plate right here.

There we go, everybody has a plate.

Wow, this looks great.

Let us say grace.

Lord, thank you for the food which we are about to receive.

That it be a blessing and nourishment to our bodies.

And we thank you for our guests.

Amen.

Thank you.

I'm sure you guys must be exhausted.

I mean, how long was that flight?

Almost 17 hours.

17 Hours?

And the way they squeeze people on planes these days?

Whew.

Girl, I don't know how you do it.

We fly private.

We have our own jet.

Oh, but of course.

Private or not, I mean, being stuck

in that small compartment could do a number on you.

Maybe this is the perfect time for some good news.

My sweetheart, Riley, over here is looking

to open her second bookstore coffee shop.

Oh.

Oh, honey.

That is wonderful, baby girl.

Thank you.

Yeah, it seems like people are really starting

to value independent bookstores now.

Damn right.

Have you made plans on where you're gonna open it?

No, not yet.

Probably LA.

Okay, I think you should look here

because local businesses are thriving here.

Not to mention Stevenson & Reid started right here.

- Right, baby? - That's right.

I mean, so would only be fitting

that you bring it on home.

Yeah, I hadn't thought about that.

- Yeah. - Interesting.

Are you sure you should be establishing your roots

so firmly in America?

And what is that supposed to mean?

She is American, isn't she?

Yeah.

What do you mean, mother?

I am simply saying that the time will come

when you and Riley will need

to honor your commitment to the monarchy.

Yeah, but that won't be for quite some time, right?

Oh, it might be.

So if Riley is the princess,

what does that make us?

The Duke and Duchess.

Shut your mouth.

And keep on talking.

Oh, I can't wait to get down to lodge

to make those boys call me the Duke.

- Hmm? - Mm.

No more Ray.

It's now Sir Duke.

Oh, I like that, baby.

Okay, well it's time for me to brag

about Mandla and his latest book.

It's gonna be published.

- Oh. - Mm.

That's wonderful, son.

Yes, thank you.

Thank you, father.

Well, I picked these up before I left LA.

Oh, my.

Ladies and gents, we have a book.

I mean, the cat is outta the bag.

Yep.

Look at that.

Hmm?

Mandla?

Yes, mother.

Who is Max Roland?

Yeah, Mandla.

Who's Max Roland?

Yeah,

Max Roland is me.

It's my pseudonym.

I just wanted to go by my writing as a merit

as opposed to my family name.

Are you ashamed of your lineage?

No, not at all.

I actually think Mandla should be applauded

for not taking the route of nepotism.

Good for you.

It shows character.

Mandla should be applauded for his upbringing

and privilege, and not be ashamed of it.

I'm not.

Okay, so what are the plans for today?

Well, I thought we'd all go tree picking together.

Oh, that sounds lovely.

We'd love to join you.

Oh, please.

Wouldn't we, darling dearest?

Whatever he say, dear.

All right, be careful.

So I don't think that everyone is going

to fit in our his and hers toys.

So we have to figure something out, guys.

Why don't Mandla and I take his parents

and then we meet you guys there?

It's not a bad idea,

except we have a five-seater

and yeah, six of us.

Well then we can take that.

That SUV right there will hold all of us.

All of us?

Yeah.

I mean, we rarely drive it.

It'd be nice to take out for a spare.

Actually, the maid drives it more than us.

She goes and gets groceries sometimes.

It's safe.

Well, if it's too much trouble,

we really could sit out the tree picking.

It might be nice to rest.

You sure, mother?

Yes.

If you're really tired, then you probably should rest.

It's okay.

Yeah, it shouldn't be a problem.

Absolutely not.

There are six of us

and we have seven seats in this lovely van.

And queen, I know you are used to luxury, honey

and limousines, and private jets,

but look at this.

Voila.

The king can just shove you right in

and you'll have your own personal jump seat.

It's a joke, she's joking.

Oh, lighten up, lighten up, okay.

Really though, you can get in the back.

Just scooch you on over to the left

so that your chef's hat doesn't get

in the rear mirror, okay?

Safety first.

What?

I'm sorry.

So picky.

Everybody doing all right back there?

I am feeling a little hot.

Would you mind turning down the heater

or perhaps opening the windows for a few minutes?

The heat's not on, Queen.

- Gina? - Huh?

Would you please open the window

- for a few minutes? - What'd you say?

Open the?

Oh.

Oh, you're hot.

Okay, wait.

Here, hold on.

I think I got something.

Right here.

Here, just fan yourself like that and it'll cool you off.

This is not an unreasonable request.

Maybe you can take that bear off

and, you know, just pull down.

- Auntie Gina? - Yes?

Can you just roll down the window?

Oh baby, no.

Baby girl, I can't do that.

You couldn't gimme enough royal pesos

to roll this window down

and let that air mess up this hair that I just got done.

I don't think so.

This is ridiculous.

We would appreciate it if you would consider

the queen's request.

Roll it, baby, roll it.

Fine.

I will turn the air on for your Royal Highness.

There you go.

You feel it?

Are you cooler now, Queen?

Oh, auntie, what about this one?

Or do you think it's too short?

Yeah, I think it's a little bit too short.

Maybe we should find one taller

like that one, maybe.

You definitely don't want this one.

This one's got a big hole in it.

Oh, okay.

Next.

Okay, everyone, what about this one?

It's tall enough.

It's wide enough for all the decorations.

- Mm-hm. - That's nice.

And it has a perfect top for a star.

It's beautiful.

Very nice, yeah.

Well, if everyone agrees, then I say,

let's get this baby wrapped up and take her home.

Yay.

- Ray. - Yes, sir.

My wife and I would like to pay for the tree

to express our gratitude for hosting us.

My gosh, that's very nice of you.

- Yes sir. - You're welcome.

Well then, babe, we should have gotten

a more expensive tree.

So Ray, what happens now?

Do we get it delivered or?

Oh, no, no, no.

We take it, we push it through the back.

It sits in between all the seats.

I mean, we don't normally have six people,

but we'll get it in there.

What, we'll get out in our car.

- Oh yeah. - Yeah.

Just shove it through the back.

We keep it going.

Shove it right on in there.

You guys just scoot you over to the side

and get out the way.

Yeah, don't get no bugs on ya.

Oh, especially the big ones.

Yes.

Interesting.

Just shove it on through.

You guys will be all right.

The tree's coming home with us?

Yes.

So I think we should start planning my engagement party.

Ooh, I think that's a good idea.

We don't have much time though.

So what do you say, your majesty?

You two go ahead.

I'm really quite tired

and I'm sure my royal sensibilities

will only get in the way.

Well, okay.

We got it.

Okay, so now we can go ahead and get decorations and...

You all right?

What's the matter?

Okay, all right, slow down.

What is going on with you?

- With me? - Yes.

Nothing.

You said that you would be cool,

but you've been acting nothing but hostile

since Mandla's mom got here.

I am not being hostile, okay?

I do not appreciate her stuffy, little stuck up attitude.

And I do not like people making me feel

less than in my own home.

She's not making you feel less than.

And how do you know what she's making me feel?

You are not even giving her a chance.

Did she give you a chance when you guys met?

We have a good relationship now

that is all in the past.

And I'd like to keep it that way.

Look, Auntie Gina, please.

I know this is not easy for you and it's an adjustment,

but can you please just try?

For me?

I am trying.

And don't look at me with that little cookie face of yours.

All right.

All right, I will try harder.

Okay.

Let's get back.

- Aw. - Oh little girl.

You sucker me every time.

Hey.

Hey, family.

I just wanted to come in and check

that you've got everything you need.

Oh yes, thank you, son.

- All right. - And before you leave.

Yes, father.

Is everything okay with Riley's family?

Everything's fine.

Fine?

Yeah, you know, I think you all just need

to get used to each other.

Do you know how it is when families meet, father?

Well, as long as everything is good.

Yeah, everything's good.

All right, I'll let you get some rest.

It's been a long trip.

While we still have you here, son,

your mother and I have decided

to abdicate the throne next year.

- Abdicate? - Mm-hm.

I don't understand, are you well?

Oh, no, your mother and I are just fine.

We're both strong and healthy,

but we've ruled for a long time, son, and we'd like

to live out the rest of our lives traveling,

you know, taking time for ourselves.

All right, I think that's great.

But this means?

This means, my son, that it's time for you

to step up and become king sooner than anticipated.

Mm-hm.

Next year?

- Yes. - Mm-hm.

You and Riley need to move back

to South Africa next year and assume the throne.

It's too soon, father.

How do I break this down to Riley?

Hi.

Hey.

Is everything okay?

Yeah, everything's fine.

I talked to my aunt about her behavior today.

Babe, I appreciate that, but trust me

when I say this, my mother's fine.

She's been through way worse than that.

Also, I thought about what auntie said

about the bookstore and I decided to look into it.

Look.

There's a baking storefront right here in Glasgow.

That'll be perfect for a second Stevenson & Reids location.

Hold on a second, I thought you said you wanted

to open a second location in LA.

I mean, yeah, but I also have to think

about market saturation and this would open me up

to a totally different market.

The closest competitor is only 30 miles away.

I think it's great.

But maybe we shouldn't get too ahead of ourselves on this.

You know?

I'm not, I,

I already told Nicole that we would meet her

and Walter for lunch and the listing is on its way.

Hmm.

Yeah.

We're just gonna go look.

Yeah, yeah, we're just gonna look.

You're so serious.

Sorry, I just...

We're just gonna go look.

So you spoke to the realtor.

- She's meeting us? - Yeah.

- Yeah? - Yeah.

I think this is it.

- Yes. - Ah.

Ah!

Look!

Yeah, okay.

This is amazing.

- Looks interesting. - Ah, I love it.

They're gonna come in next week and fumigate

so I would recommend coming in three weeks from now.

Look at the windows.

Oh my gosh.

And over here, this opens up to the park.

Mandla, this is like, the perfect dream location.

And it's like, perfect foot traffic.

This is...

Yeah, it's a great space.

I really didn't expect to love this space

as much as I did.

Yeah, and for this price?

In LA, this would be like double, maybe triple.

Yeah, it's an option.

- An option? - Yeah.

No, this feels like more than an option.

This feels like it's it.

I feel like I need to put an offer in on it like fast.

Whoa, whoa, okay.

Okay, let's not rush into anything just yet.

Okay?

What do you mean?

Oh, I don't know.

You wanna see some other options, don't you?

You might like something else.

Look, you don't want to have buyer's remorse now, do you?

Hey, I hope you guys got some good rest.

Oh, thank you.

The bed was very comfortable.

Wonderful.

Would you like to join us?

Lovely music.

Thank you.

We're just about to have some wine.

Would you like some?

We'd love that.

Yeah?

Okay, honey, do you mind getting glasses?

The king and queen are going to join us for wine.

All right, very good.

Very good.

Wonderful.

Yes.

Hello, yeah.

Here we are.

Both my wife and I a wine enthusiasts.

What are we drinking?

Oh, this is a red.

It's called Cabernet Sauvignon.

The N is silent, but it's not crazy expensive,

but it's really good.

Yes, we get a little selective at times.

I'll pass on the wine.

Are you not going to allow it to breathe?

Oh, will you look at that, Ray?

Our wine isn't good enough for your majesty.

It's not the wine.

Okay.

You know what, I can just run to the store,

and grab something else and it'll be good.

You will do no such thing.

The wine that we have is the wine that we have.

Please do not go to the trouble on our account.

The red is just fine.

My wife and I, you know,

perhaps we might just find a new favorite.

Perhaps.

All right.

- Cheers. - Cheers.

Mm-hm.

You know what?

I think that I would very much like to be involved

in planning the engagement party.

Really?

You sure you're not too tired?

I'm very well rested.

Thank you.

Well,

all-righty, then.

Spirit in this restaurant.

Yeah, it's so pretty.

It's beautiful.

Thank you.

Of course.

So, you moved.

I thought you were in New York.

I was, and after growing up here, I wanted

to move as far away from Glasgow as possible.

But after Walter and I got married last year,

I really wanted to come back home.

- Yeah. - Here we are.

First of all, congratulations.

Yes, I believe so.

Thank you, thank you.

You're welcome, I'm so happy for the both of you.

Oh, thank you.

So what brings you two back?

Well, my Aunt Gina and Uncle Ray still live here,

so we're home visiting for the holidays.

Yep.

And Mandla's parents are in town

to meet them for the first time.

We're also having an engagement party on Christmas Eve.

Am I missing anything?

No, no, that just about covers it.

We doing a whole lot in your town.

- Sounds like it. - Yeah.

Pretty much.

We'll get that hand from under that table

and let's see the ring.

Oh, Mandla.

I wish you were around and help Walter pick out my ring.

Hey, I thought you liked your ring.

I did, and then I saw Riley's.

Yours is really nice.

Thank you.

Okay, party, tell me everything.

Oh, actually, we kind of need help

planning the engagement party.

We haven't done anything yet.

Well, you know, I am a party planner.

- No? - What?

- Really? - Yeah.

Part of Nicole's job back in the city

was planning big corporate events.

Yeah, and Walter was a project manager

at some soul sucking nine-to-five job.

So with my party planning skills

and his business experience.

We just figured why not open

our own party planning business right here in town.

So we did.

This is incredible.

I opened it, he helped a little.

Nicole.

Are you kidding me?

Either way, I would love

to help you plan your engagement party.

Yes.

Nicole, I would love that, but I don't know

if I want you to get in between my aunt and the queen.

Did you just say the queen?

Oh, yeah.

Mandla's parents, they are king and queen in South Africa.

Wait, so that makes you a...

You're marrying a prince?

Yeah.

And someday you're gonna be the queen?

Yes, but not any time soon.

Why was that not the first thing you said?

Because I didn't wanna be flashy.

I'm sorry, but if you're marrying a prince,

you can be a little flashy.

Well, it's settled.

I'm helping you plan this engagement party.

That's very kind of you, Nicole.

Thank you, really.

Thank you.

Honey child, I have thrown many parties at this house,

and Riley and I have already discussed

what we are going to do with her engagement party.

Well, that's a pity because your ideas are wrong.

Wrong?

Have you ever thrown a party before in your entire life?

Don't you dare.

I have thrown parties for royalty, dignitaries,

and heads of state all over the world.

Well, I'm sure it was a hell of a lot easier

when you had hundreds of people helping you.

The gall of this woman.

Darling, please exercise some restraint.

I am restrained.

Oh, really, you gonna yell at the king like that?

- Gina? - That is disrespectful.

Hey.

- Gina. - Hey.

Oh, but you can snap at your husband like that.

What happens in my house stays in my house.

Hey.

What in the world is going on here?

Your auntie and your future mother-in-law are

in here arguing about your engagement party.

And the king and I are going to grab these bottles

and plan our own engagement party.

All right?

Please be civil about the whole thing, darling.

Mandla, come on, let's go.

You don't wanna stay in here with this.

Come on, let's go.

Come, Mandla.

Riley, will you please tell this woman,

your future mother-in-law, her highness,

that we are not having your engagement party in a ballroom?

And Riley, you understand that a bar and grill is

not befitting of a future queen.

A bar and grill is a ballroom.

We just need somewhere where we have enough room

for the electric slide and better music and better food.

This is the most reductive argument.

Reductive?

- Spare- - Stop, okay?

There's no reason for you guys to be arguing like this.

This is not your engagement party.

It's our engagement party.

Yes, but Riley, you must understand

that there are certain expectations.

Meaning that our expectations

of our party are beneath you?

I did not say that.

Oh, honey, you didn't have to.

Okay, stop.

We're not gonna talk about any more planning

of the party until Nicole gets here.

- Nicole? - Yes.

Nicole is my friend and she's a party planner.

So she's gonna plan the party.

Riley, I am more than capable.

Whoa, here we go.

This woman right here.

Neither one of you are capable

of planning anything without fighting.

So I found the solution.

Okay?

Good.

Does Nicole know what she's doing?

Fine.

Oh, our wine ain't good enough for you still, huh?

Hey.

Thank you so much for doing this.

Are you kidding?

This is what I live for.

Okay, I just wanna prepare you that my aunt

and Mandla's mom have been doing nothing but butting heads.

So I'm hoping having a third mutual party kind

of come in will help smooth out the rough edges.

Say no more, Riley.

I have planned parties for some

high end big wigs in New York City.

So I'm used to navigating the big personalities

and the big opinions.

This will be nothing.

Yeah, well, it doesn't feel like nothing.

It's like every small detail is everything to them.

It just almost makes me not wanna do it.

Hey, none of that.

This is your party to celebrate your engagement.

So it only matters that you get what you want.

It's all about the approach.

I make 'em feel important, I make 'em feel valued,

and all of a sudden they're eating out

of the palm of my hand.

Just watch.

Auntie Gina, you remember Nicole?

Oh, beautiful.

How are you?

I'm doing just fine, it's so good to see you.

Good to see you, as well.

And you must be Mandla's mom.

It's nice to meet you.

It's a pleasure to meet you.

Riley tells me you're a queen.

Yes, I am.

Well, it's an honor to be in the presence of royalty.

And Auntie Gina, you're basically the queen

of this household, I'd say.

Oh, honey, you better believe it.

So I have two queens on equal footing.

My role here is to ensure that everyone,

but more importantly, Riley, gets what you want.

So that means there's no bad ideas,

but we can't have every single idea.

Does that make sense?

Sure.

It does.

So Riley tells me there's a bit

of a disagreement on the venue.

I was thinking maybe we could do both.

I know the Queen's ballroom has plenty of room

for Auntie Gina's electric slide.

Oh, yeah.

Well, Auntie Gina, I don't mean to impose,

but I just couldn't help as I walked into your lovely home,

this large, spacious patio out back,

I was thinking maybe we could have the party out there.

I love that idea.

And this house has always meant so much to me.

Oh, well, she had me at your lovely home.

Queen Nobantu?

Well if it means so much to Riley, then certainly.

Well, yes, thank you so much.

Of course, love.

Wonderful.

And just like that, you've got a venue.

Yay.

So now all we need is a guest list.

We'll need to make invitations.

I know we're very short on time,

but luckily I have my party planning bible right here.

So this is a specially curated, meticulously organized

A to Z start to finish trademark guide

to planning the perfect party.

We will just go to I for invitations.

You pick out the decoration, I'll contact my local printer,

which works very fast on a deadline.

And I will also contact my caterer.

This is amazing.

These are lovely.

Queen, don't you guys have the royal seal?

Maybe we can put that on each invitation, huh?

What do you think?

I agree.

Ah, nice.

Well, what do you think, Riley?

Which one do you like?

I really love that one.

I knew you would.

Yeah, I knew she would, too.

Great taste.

It looks I You put a lot of hard work

in this book, young lady.

I did, this is my life's work.

All right, king, here we go.

♪ Joy to the world

♪ The Lord is come

♪ Let earth receive the king

♪ Let every heart prepare Him room ♪

♪ And heaven and nature sing

♪ And heaven, and heaven and nature sing ♪

Oh, that sound wonderful!

Yeah, yeah.

That sounds great.

Oh, hey.

Hey.

Oh my goodness, king.

The voice is amazing.

Oh, thank you, man.

You know what, honey?

Our neighbors are having a party.

Ah.

I say we go caroling.

- Let's go sing. - I say we go.

That's another one of our Christmas family traditions.

I think it sounds amazing, we should do it.

I think I'll sit this one out.

Caroling is not really my thing.

Darling, dear, let's.

Well listen, if you get lost, just follow my lead.

I'll help you out, nothing to it.

You know what, you don't have to worry about getting lost.

We have lyric sheets, lots of them, just read it.

Come on, mother, come on.

There it is.

Come on.

All right.

All right!

♪ Joy to the world

♪ The Lord has come

♪ Let us receive her king

Stuccato!

♪ Let every heart prepare Him room ♪

♪ And heaven and nature sing

♪ And heaven a nature sing

♪ And heaven and heaven and nature sing ♪

DJ Ray, Ray!

Chop a beat!

A-wicki-wicki, boom

boom-a-wup-wup-ooh

I said uh-uh, a S to the A to the N-T-A

'cause he's comin' to town so everybody pause

the reindeer's on the roof, ow,

good kids gonna get some gifts and all, hey,

everybody here did click-clack-clum

then we...

Hey.

Merry Christmas.

That was a great deal of fun.

Yes, you know, I quite like caroling.

Yes, you were really good at it.

Woo, I will tell you, hey, you are a natural.

Stop.

Queen, you were a little pitchy,

but I guess I held it together for the both of us.

Mother, you were great, incredible in fact.

I'm glad you came with us.

- Thanks. - Really amazing.

Oh, absolutely wonderful.

That was great.

That was absolutely fantastic.

You go inside?

Yes, dad, yes, father.

So what kind of food do you want for your party?

I don't know, just, I guess whatever's easiest.

So I'm thinking maybe some sliders, garlic fries,

mozzarella sticks, nachos.

You see, that way people can just grab and mingle.

But then they all have tiny plates

in their hands, dropping food all over the floor.

A plated meal will probably be best.

Perhaps a roast, some stew.

A fish of some kind?

I know you are not talking about shoving a bunch

of dining tables onto my patio.

Now, hold on, I'm sure there's a way

for all of us to get what we want.

Let's just meet in the middle, okay?

Need stupid ideas in the middle.

Auntie Gina.

Excuse me, did you call me stupid?

Actually, if you had been listening,

you would've heard me say stupid ideas,

but hey, if the shoe fits.

Hey, hey, hey, hey, hey ladies.

Remember what I said, there's no bad ideas,

there's no stupid ideas.

Okay, let's just all take a deep breath.

Nope, still stupid.

Where is this coming from?

I thought we were both on the same page.

Yeah, so did I, but that was

before this royal pain in the ass here decided

that she was gonna make caroling the Nobantu show.

And, of course, you guys treated her like it was.

Oh my goodness, you are ridiculous.

Oh, I'm ridiculous.

No, no, you're not gonna be up

in my house calling you ridiculous.

You are the one who acted like you were the star

of the caroling with your rap show.

A grown woman prancing around like an uncouth idiot.

Excuse me, listen.

I'll be back.

Let me tell you something, little girl.

It took a lot of energy for me to put

into my freestyle rap, okay?

Y'all need to appreciate that.

But no, what you do, you walked away.

You walked away.

Because you, and your act.

That was was embarrassing.

Now I'm talking.

Back to you and your little comments.

I don't know what this is about, ladies,

but if we could just refocus our attention

back to planning the party, please.

If one more person interrupt me

around here, up in my house.

You know, I don't know what it is with you,

but from the moment I entered your house,

you have had a problem with me.

I just cannot win.

Oh, it doesn't feel good, does it, Queen?

Huh?

Damn skipper, you can't win.

Just in case you forgot the way that you treated my niece

when you first met her.

Your I'm better than the world attitude.

No, don't act like you're defending me, okay?

This is your problem, not mine.

Oh, I'm sorry, I didn't realize

I was being such a problem, niecy.

Hey, hey, nobody's the problem, okay?

These type of events cause a lot of stress.

Tensions run high, people's feelings get hurt.

But remember, this is a time of celebration.

Fine.

Then I tell you what, I would like

to look at the decorations page.

We haven't finalized the catering.

Fine without you finalizing no catering.

I wanna see the decorating page.

I have simply trying to see it.

You're acting like a two-year-old.

No!

No!

Nicole.

Nicole!

Nicole.

Please, open up.

Nicole, I am so sorry.

Do you know how long it took me

to put that portfolio together?

Do you know how important it's to my business?

And it's gone in an instant!

Nicole, I am so sorry.

I wish I knew what to say.

I cannot help people who don't wanna be helped.

I'm gonna have to walk away before anything else happens.

Nicole, I really need you.

Just look at what you've done.

You have ruined that poor girl's book.

What I've done?

That poor girl's book wouldn't be ruined

if you hadn't tossed it into the fireplace.

This all started when you called my idea stupid.

Well, honey, boo boo,

if your idea is stupid, it is stupid.

Okay, okay.

- Okay. - It's stupid.

All right, okay, I think we all just need to settle down.

Mandla's right?

I think we're a little worked up here.

Worked up?

I'm not worked up.

You all have not seen me worked up.

Stop!

Nicole quit.

And honestly, I don't blame her.

My god, she's being a drama queen.

I mean, it's really not that bad.

You threw her bible into the fire.

And all she tried to do was help sort out

whatever bizarre issues you two have going on.

Auntie Gina, she ate at your table when we were kids.

Now I'd be surprised if she ever walks

through that door again.

And Queen Nobantu, I hired Nicole

because I wanted your input to feel valued

because it is.

But this is not the royal court

and the same rules don't apply.

Now this party is about Mandla and I,

and it's meant to be about joy.

But so far. the most stressful thing has not been

about colors or decorations, it's been

about managing the both of you.

None of of us-

No!

I don't wanna hear anymore!

All I wanna do is decorate the Christmas tree

and everyone be nice about it.

Okay?

Can we do that for one night?

♪ We gather on this special day ♪

♪ To celebrate in a special way ♪

♪ Our love and admiration for each other ♪

All right.

Okay.

Oh, the king, c'mon.

That looks really good.

That looks beautiful.

It's coming along just fine.

Mm-hm, good.

Um.

Oh.

Wait, I thought that one looked really good there.

Honey, that's actually fine.

That's fine.

Oh, okay.

Oh, you gonna move that one, too?

- Yeah. - It's okay.

Um, I dunno.

Oh, I'm sorry, I just thought the ornaments

were a little bit too close to each other.

Really, honey?

I mean, I mean, come on.

It's just an ornament, who caress?

I do.

Okay, do you really want all the ornaments

all bunched up together?

Come on, like.

Honey, listen.

This is why people decorate their own trees, right?

Auntie Gina?

We're not doing this again.

What?

Mother?

Buenos noches.

No, this...

Okay, so Riley, you wanna hand me another ornament?

No, you really need to get over yourself.

What are you talking?

It's a two-way street, honey, it's a two-way street.

It's not just me.

I'm so disappointed in you.

Riley.

Are you all right, my love?

No, I'm not.

I didn't expect to feel so rattled.

You know, I've experienced a lot

of scrutiny as queen, a lot.

I know you have.

From people feeling as though I wasn't worthy

of the monarchy to judging my actions as queen.

But I knew that came with a territory.

That I could handle.

But that woman.

This just feels so much more personal.

I've tried, Chidike.

I really have.

I know you have, I know.

And I feel like nothing I do will be good enough.

It just sounds like how Riley must have felt

when she first met our family.

Was I this bad?

Oh, no.

Poor Riley.

Being on the other side doesn't feel so good.

I'm sorry you're feeling this way.

I wish you back home in South Africa

amongst real friends.

This trip is very important for Mandla and Riley

and I think for their sake, we should stick it out.

Hmm.

How about we sleep on it?

I cannot believe my aunt acted like that.

Mandla, I'm so sorry.

I'm the one that brought your parents into this situation.

I can't believe I'm saying this,

but I actually feel sorry for your mom.

I never have thought that I would say that.

Stop, stop.

Okay, this is not your fault.

Let me tell you something about my mother, okay?

She knows how to give it as much as she can get it.

They both had something to do

with that book falling in the fire, babe.

Now I know you're concerned,

but I promise you, she has thick skin.

A queen has to, after all.

Well, if this is what a queen has to deal with,

I'm glad I don't have to deal with this anytime soon.

All I wanted was perfect engagement party

with the perfect Christmas Eve, my perfect fiance

with no fighting between my combative aunt

and my opinionated mother-in-law.

Is that too much to ask?

Well, if you say it all in a row

like that, then no.

Save me.

Max Rowland.

Oh, is that what we were gonna do?

Yeah, it sounds like some sort

of action hero or something.

Well, that's why I picked it.

It's adorable.

You adorable.

Thank you.

Now listen, there's something I wanna tell you.

Hmm.

Hi.

Can I come in?

I'll give you two a moment.

Riley, I want to apologize to you.

I was being selfish.

And my pride got in the way.

And I'm making what was supposed to be a joyous celebration

about me and my petty dispute

with your future mother-in-law.

I'm not the one that you need to be apologizing to.

I know.

Poor Nicole.

I don't even know how to begin to apologize to her.

And I know I need to swallow my pride

and apologize to Mandla's mother.

You know, we're gonna be a family

whether you like it or not,

so you might as well as just accept it.

You know, when you were a little girl,

your mom and I would fight sometimes, like sisters do

and you hated it.

Just three years old.

Barely taller than our kneecaps and there you were

right there in the middle of us just standing there

with your arms up, screaming and shouting,

"Stop fighting.

"Say, I love you."

And you wouldn't give up until we hugged.

Did you?

Once we stopped laughing, yeah.

You were always the peacekeeper.

Always.

I just hope that I can learn a thing or two from you.

So now I am going to do better.

No, really.

And I'm going to start by apologizing to the queen.

I just hope she can forgive me.

Thank you, Aunt Gina.

And I'm sorry for raising my voice at you earlier.

Girl, are you kidding me?

I was so proud of you for using your voice like that.

It was genuinely scary though, you know?

It's not scary.

Ooh, it was terrifying, I'm telling you.

I'm sorry.

Truly.

I'm sorry.

You forgive me?

Yes, I forgive you.

I love you.

I love you, too.

You better.

Ray.

Chidike.

Come on in.

How you doing, sir?

I'm good.

Good, good.

Come in and join me, man.

This is my man cave.

I see.

This is where I come to when I want

to spend some quiet time, you know?

- Yeah. - You like jazz.

It runs in my veins.

I live and breathe jazz.

That's good, that's good.

Yeah, I enjoy listening to jazz before I go to bed.

It helps me unwind, you know.

Does the same to me.

Look, why don't you join me?

Want a drink?

Whiskey would be good.

Oh, man.

I got the good stuff, too.

Yes, I do.

And, uh.

Thanks, man.

You're welcome.

I want to apologize for earlier.

I've not seen Gina that worked up in a long time.

I've also have never seen my wife like that.

It's like they both just lost it.

Hell, it's Christmas.

And Christmas is a time of celebration.

Happiness, joy

coming together as...

I mean, we're about to be a family.

Yeah, I agree.

And Riley was correct.

It's about her and Mandla.

You're right.

On another note, you're the king.

But I made my fortune writing and producing music.

Hmm.

So I did something special for my wife

as a Christmas present.

She hasn't heard it.

But I'd love to hear your thoughts.

I couldn't wait.

Yeah, man.

What'd you think of that?

♪ Divine destiny

Ooh.

♪ Has brought you and me together ♪

Yeah, bud.

♪ The love we had

♪ Was meant to last forever

Oh, man, I love that.

Thank you, thank you so much.

You're good.

Thank you, I she'll love it too.

♪ It's our destiny

♪ To be this one heart

Queen Nobantu, hi.

Hey, we were just actually heading out to the store

to get some decorations for the engagement party

since it looks like we'll be doing it ourselves.

Would you like to join us?

No, thank you.

I don't believe I'll be welcome.

Uh, sweetie, can you just wait in the car for me?

I'll be right there.

It's okay.

Okay.

What have I done now?

No, no, just listen.

I'm sorry.

You're sorry.

Yes.

For the way that I behaved.

I mean, I was rude, petulant, immature,

and any other adjective you can possibly think of to say.

I could think of a few more.

I'm sure.

And I deserve that.

I just wanted to protect Riley.

And yeah, I was a little jealous

of how much she loves you.

And she really does love you.

And she loves the king and she definitely loves

that son of yours more than anything in the world.

I may have been a little too harsh

with Riley when I first met her.

I could say it's my job to be,

but, really, a mother just wants

what's best for her son.

But perhaps I did go a bit overboard.

Oh, you know, if I was being honest,

part of my behavior,

no, most of my behavior was

because I was intimidated by you,

you and the king.

I mean, my god.

You guys are royalty.

Honest to goodness royalty.

Am I supposed to compete with that?

I thought you were the queen of this house.

Oh honey, I am, no doubt.

But that doesn't carry the same prestige.

I didn't wanna feel like I had to impress you,

so I cut you down.

And it was wrong.

And honestly, I'm embarrassed.

And I was being unfair not only to you,

but to Mandla and my baby girl.

And it's not about us, right?

This is their time.

I appreciate that.

And if I'm being honest,

I was a little intimidated by you, too.

Wait, what?

The queen intimidated by me?

You are terrifying, Gina.

Oh, well thank you.

I dunno, was it bad that I'm a little bit proud

that I intimidated the queen?

Oh my gosh, Nicole.

Oh, no, I feel terrible.

Oh, god, but you know what though?

It was a little funny.

No it wasn't, it wasn't funny.

No, it's funny.

- It was. - It was not so funny.

Friends?

Friends.

Yay.

Bring it in.

We're huggers.

We are hugging, we're doing it.

Yes, we're doing it.

All right, listen.

We're about to go shopping and we wouldn't dare do that

without the presence of the queen

and her royal taste being there to guide us.

No, you can't because I have impeccable taste.

Oh, of course you do.

Hey, did you notice that big word I used, petulant?

- I heard it. - Yeah.

The thing is, can you spell it?

Ooh, touche.

♪ Santa Claus

♪ Do you know cupid?

♪ Santa's arrow sang to my heart ♪

That says I'm sorry and I mean it.

And great minds think alike.

Indeed they do.

♪ The greatest gift of all

♪ Send me a

Please accept our heartfelt apologies.

Please.

♪ Send me another press

♪ 'Cause the bad would be the greatest gift of all ♪

To family.

Family.

Okay, that was fun.

I am having a glorious time.

Exactly.

Oh, here comes the ladies.

There you guys are.

Hey, you.

Hey.

Hello, my love.

Yeah, see, we are standing here learning

the professional way from the king of how to braai.

And when was the last time you braai?

Darling, braaiing is like riding a bicycle.

You never can forget it.

So dare I ask what a braai is?

Braai are what the case

what you in America call barbecue.

Bubba what?

Let me roll that R for her.

- Roll it, my love. - Barbecue.

Ah, okay, barbecue.

I can do a barbecue.

I love those things.

- Papa, papa. - Yeah?

Earlier on, I just flipped the one to right there.

No, no, no, son.

When it's your braai, then you can decide

when to flip the meat.

You cook so well, Queen.

I was a woman before I was a queen.

Oh honey, you will always be a woman.

Hey.

And where are you two off to?

And you will be back before dinner, right?

Oh no.

We're actually going to the Christmas Fair

with Nicole and Walter.

I'm surprised they didn't cancel, but I think it's

because you two smoothed things out a bit.

Ah, yeah, well we do what we do.

Well, I guess that means that there will be more

for us, right, Queen?

I think I'll be having seconds tonight.

Oh, wow.

Really?

Are you two sure you're gonna be okay?

Of course, we'll be just fine.

Absolutely.

That's not funny.

I thought it was kind of cute.

♪ Ha

♪ Ha-Oh

♪ Let there be stars on life

♪ Maybe raining falling down

Look at all these goodies.

Oh, there they are.

- Hey. - Hi.

- Walter. - Yes sir, yes sir.

It's good to see you.

So nice to see you.

You, too.

I hope you guys are hungry

because the gingerbread donuts are to die for.

Oh wait, Nicole,

I just really wanted to say how truly sorry I am

about the bible and everything.

Well, I'm not gonna lie, I was pretty pissed

until Walter gave me my Christmas present early.

Oh.

He spent months digitizing the entire bible

for Parties by Nicole.

Which I also designed.

Oh, listen to that.

So what, did you lose anything?

Just paper for an increasingly paperless world.

Fair enough.

Wow.

All in the palm of my hand.

This is incredible, Nicole.

- This is amazing. - Yeah.

But I still feel really bad about what happened.

Really, all is forgiven.

I mean, if anything, it just helped me move

into the digital age a lot faster.

And luckily Walter was there to save the day.

Of course Walter was there to save the day.

Listen, I wanna be Walter at this point.

Naw.

Are you guys hungry?

- Yes. - Yes, please.

I am starving.

Oh yeah, let's do it.

Woo, that was a mean steak.

You got that?

You were fantastic, my love.

I've still got it, baby.

Ooh.

My wife and I come bearing gifts.

These are from the Cape Winelands of South Africa.

We have several in our collection

that we save for special occasions.

Well, I think this is a special occasion

and we need to open it right now, Ray.

- Come on. - I agree.

That's a very kind gesture.

Our pleasure.

Mm, 2016.

Yes, that was a good year.

Good year.

When you come down for the wedding,

I think we need to take you to that estate.

You'll see it for yourself.

That's a very good idea.

Have some lunch.

And since it sounds like an invitation to come,

I need the master bedroom.

Oh sweetie, you know what?

I'd like to let that wine breathe a little.

Mm-mm-mm-mm-mm.

- Gina. - That's pretty good.

That's pretty good, huh?

What did you get?

Don't worry about it.

- Let me see. - No, no, no.

Let me see.

Okay.

A pumpkin spice latte?

What?

It's a fall essential.

Oh, okay.

So, what do you say

we get back to planning your party?

I mean, there's not much time left.

What?

Really, are you serious?

Of course, I mean, it's my motto

to never leave a party plan unfinished.

Plus you two are gonna be my digital bible Guinea pigs.

Of course.

Nicole, this is incredible.

Thank you so much.

But no fire in the fireplace this time.

No, I promise.

Body over here!

Let's go get it!

Aw.

Uh.

I said a jingle to the jungle

said the jingle to the jungle

with the lions and the bears,

tigers in the tigers in the cheetahs everywhere.

Hey!

It's the little love birdies.

What is going on here?

Swell time.

Uh-huh.

Sir Duke and Duchess and the king and queen.

I guess the wine didn't hurt?

Oh, you got that right.

Oh, smile for the camera.

Smile.

Aw, that's so cute.

- That's beautiful. - Selfie, baby.

Ah.

All right, hey, come, come.

Come on.

Come sit here.

No, you know what?

We're gonna go to bed.

- No. - No.

Oh, you party poopers

Party poopers.

Your parents were just telling us

about how you single-handedly created

a white Christmas in South Africa.

- Oh, no. - Really?

Yes.

Suddenly, I'm not so tired.

Okay, come on.

Yes, do share.

You see Christmas in South Africa, it's quite warm.

So Mandla had this idea of a white Christmas.

So one December,

Mandla was about what, eight years old?

Maybe seven.

Yeah.

He obsessively started collecting packing peanuts

- and I mean. - What?

Packing peanuts?

Thousands and thousands of them

from the royal mail room and local post office.

We couldn't for the life of us figure

out what he was doing with that.

Then on Christmas morning, he woke up early

set up a box fan and dump all those packing peanuts out.

And what did you yell, son?

Snow, snow.

It was a massive mess.

I thought you hated that story.

You wanted to kill me.

Well, I had to discipline you son, didn't I?

We found pecking peanuts in nooks and grannies

for years to come.

And once we sent you to your room,

oh, we couldn't contain our lives.

Snow.

Come on, get some wine.

No, you know what, we're gonna go to bed.

We have a party to plan.

- Yes. - No, no.

Okay, hey, hey, hey.

We are right behind you.

Yes, just after one more bottle.

Goodnight, children.

- Goodnight. - Good night.

Hey, I wanna propose a toast

to Mandla the packing peanut snowman.

Yes, that's beautiful.

There she's is.

Now we're gonna give her a thumb sideways

because it's kind of like.

Just for you, Gina.

Just for you, thank you.

All right, next.

I'm thinking this playlist right here.

What do you think?

- Yeah. - It's a good mix.

Okay, yes, that is a good mix.

It has a little bit of everything.

And of course, I added the electric slide

for Auntie Gina.

Okay, set this here up.

Let's move this table right here.

Okay.

That's a dead space, I don't like this.

Happy?

Very.

Here's the keys.

I can't believe it.

Thank you so much.

- Bye. - Bye.

Listen, I know that the news

that your mother and I are planning to abdicate the throne

must have taken you by surprise.

But I want you to know that we wouldn't do that

unless we felt that you were ready to take over.

I know.

And how's Riley taking the news?

I haven't exactly told her yet.

No?

Why not?

It will disrupt her entire life, father.

She has plans.

We have plans.

I don't know how to break it to her

that those plans have to change.

I see.

Well, the news and the transition

may be difficult for Riley,

but as your mother said, this is the honor, the privilege,

and the responsibility of marrying into a royal family.

I know.

And the sooner you tell her, the more times she'll have

to process the whole thing.

Yes, father, I know.

I know you know.

I'm just giving you a fatherly advice.

Look.

I promise you I'm gonna tell her as soon as I can.

I just wanted to enjoy the engagement party

without this entire thing hanging over her head,

you know, just so she has a good time.

I'll get to it.

I understand.

And, son.

Yes, father.

I want you to know that I'm very proud of you,

not only for what you've accomplished,

but for bringing a person like Riley into our family.

Thank you Father.

Everything turned out just the way I wanted it to.

I love you.

Come in.

Oh, Riley, your makeup looks so beautiful.

Thank you.

I wish your mother was here to see you.

She'd be so proud.

Speaking of, something I want you to have.

It's beautiful.

Thank you.

You're welcome.

It belonged to your mom.

And your grandmother gave it to her

when she got engaged to your dad.

So I know she would want you to have that.

No water works.

We don't wanna mess up that pretty face.

Thank you for everything.

You're welcome.

It's my pleasure.

I'm just glad to be a part of the family now.

And there's actually something else I wanna tell you.

Okay.

I signed a lease for our next bookstore,

only a couple of blocks from here.

So I'm really looking forward to seeing a lot more of you.

Oh, my goodness.

Oh, Riley, that is the best news ever.

Congratulations.

Thank you.

I've always wanted us to be closer

so we could spend more time together.

Aw, me too.

I love you.

I love you too, baby.

Wishes do come true.

All right, now you go ahead, finish getting ready

because we do not want to keep the prince waiting.

My princess.

You look absolutely amazing.

Thank you.

Shall we?

We shall.

Ladies and gentlemen, may I have your attention please?

Thank you, Ray.

Ladies and gentlemen, it gives me great pleasure

to introduce to you my son and heir of the throne,

Prince Mandla.

And I am also honored to present

the future Princess, Miss Riley Stevenson.

Excuse me.

I'm sorry.

Riley, you look stunning tonight.

Thank you.

Come with me.

♪ The snowflakes will be falling ♪

I have a little gift for you.

I wanted to give it to you earlier,

but it didn't seem like the appropriate time.

Okay.

♪ The stockings

♪ Put the tinsel on the tree

♪ Because Christmas is coming

Wow.

Thank you so much, Queen Nobantu.

This is, it's beautiful.

It's my pleasure, my love.

You know, the king and I are so thrilled

to have you join the Mutah family

as our daughter-in-law and as the next queen.

Thank you.

You have no idea how much that means to me.

I mean it.

And listen, I know this transition may seem sudden,

and I know you might find it difficult,

but just know that I will be there for you

every step of the way.

I'm sorry, transition?

I assumed that Mandla told you.

Told me what?

Well, the king and I will be abdicating

the throne next year, so you and Mandla would need

to assume the role.

Well, after you get married, of course.

Wait, I'm just trying to understand.

So are you saying that I'm gonna have

to move to South Africa next year?

Well, naturally.

You can't rule from Los Angeles.

And you knew about this and didn't tell me?

Babe, can we talk about this in private?

I can't believe that you're doing this again.

You know what, forget it.

Riley.

Mother.

What did you just do that for?

My apologies.

I assumed that this would be good news.

Good news for who?

Not for Riley.

Mandla, you knew that this would be a possibility.

And with Riley as your queen,

she would be joining you to rule.

This is part of the honor and the privilege.

The privilege, the responsibility I know.

It's all I've ever known.

You know, mother, you know what puzzles me?

It is impossible for you to imagine a world

where somebody doesn't want your life.

And what is that supposed to mean?

It means not everyone thinks it's an honor and a privilege

to sacrifice the lives that they know

to uphold some antiquated tradition.

Antiquated tradi-

Is that what she thinks?

Because if Riley doesn't want this life,

then maybe you need to rethink this marriage.

I called it an antiquated tradition, mother.

Because if that honor and that privilege hurts somebody

that I love with everything,

then maybe I don't wanna be king.

Now, if you'll excuse me, I need

to go find my fiance, mother.

Baby, please.

I am so sorry.

I really hope that you can explain

to me why you continue to keep hiding things from me.

You're the prince.

You're my angel investor.

Your parents are now abdicating the throne, forcing us

to move to South Africa years sooner than expected.

I guess I'm just expected to keep waiting

for the next shoe to drop?

No, I was gonna tell you.

When?

I was waiting for the right time.

The right time would've been as soon as you found out.

And definitely before I put an offer in

on the bookstore space.

Wait a second, you what?

I thought we agreed we are gonna wait on that.

No, you told me to think about it.

I did, I decided it was a perfect space,

so I put an offer in on it.

I guess I don't even get that now.

How do you do that?

I thought we agreed that we were gonna

make decisions together, especially the big stuff.

That's not how marriage works.

And you can't keep hiding major life things

that have a major impact on mine.

Okay, you want to know why I didn't tell you?

I didn't tell you because I wasn't sure

if I wanted to be king or not.

I wasn't sure I could do that to you.

Oh, great.

I finally have a good relationship with your mom

and now I'm gonna be responsible

for you giving up the family legacy.

No, that wouldn't be you,

that would be my choice.

See, that's the problem.

What about my choice?

I haven't gotten to choose any of this.

I dated a man for three years who didn't tell me who he was.

Now I'm finally getting used to it

and I'm forced to move halfway around the world?

No, you don't have to move halfway

around the world, okay, you don't have to change your life.

A lot is put on me, as well.

Yeah, but the difference is

you've known this your whole life, I haven't.

I fell in love with you, not your status or your position.

And now I'm just expected to fall in line?

Babe, please.

Okay, please, I need you to calm down, okay?

We've got a whole engagement party happening.

No, it's off.

Tell Nicole.

This has put a lot of things in perspective for me.

What?

Perhaps we are making a mistake.

What do you mean?

We know that Mandla has always chosen his own path.

You heard him earlier.

He's not even sure he wants to be king.

Well, we don't always get to choose our own lives.

We didn't.

But when the time came,

we assumed our responsibilities with grace.

That was because we didn't know

that there was a different way.

Mandla has been out there in the world choosing

to live a life where his name doesn't open doors for him.

And he has fallen in love with a woman who loves him

for the wonderful man that he is

not because of what his name could do for her.

Yes, but if we allow him

to choose his own path,

it will jeopardize everything we've ever known.

Think about this, Chidike.

The end of the monarchy?

Darling dearest, it certainly would be a change,

but not one that we nor our people couldn't overcome.

We should expect better for our children

than we had ourselves.

Please.

Think about it.

Riley?

I owe you an apology.

You should know that the reason why the king and I chose

to abdicate the throne is because we were convinced

that our son had found his true queen.

And we both agree that we would be honored

to have you on throne.

But,

we are ignoring the fact

that we've been choosing Mandla's life

and this isn't the life he chose for himself,

and it certainly isn't the one you chose.

Look, I know that it seems as though Mandla is keeping

secret after secret from you, but he holds these secrets

not as a weapon, but as a burden.

Time after time, he's been trying to carve out his own path,

but his birthright keeps putting him back

in ways even he didn't expect.

I just don't understand why you wouldn't trust me

with that information.

I acknowledge that my son should have

told you the truth earlier.

But he wanted to protect you, because he loves you

and he values your relationship more than I can say.

And I now know that my son would sooner give

up the royal family and everything that comes with it,

than to ever risk losing you.

I know that family and legacy are really important to you,

but it's really important to me too,

and me establishing these bookstores,

that's what it's about.

My family, my legacy, it's about honoring my parents.

I understand.

Family's important, royalty or not.

You know, I have been entrenched in tradition

for a very long time, and it takes even longer

to become un-entrenched.

So I can't promise that I will always

take change gracefully,

but I can promise that I'll always try.

But most importantly, I know how happy you make my son

and I know better than to doubt the things

that make him happy.

Baby, I'm so sorry.

I should have told you everything immediately.

I was just so worried about the strings attached to who I am

and who my family is and how that would impact your life.

It was my fault.

I'm deeply sorry.

I know that you were put

in a really difficult position

and you were only trying to protect me,

and I shouldn't have put an offer in

on the bookstore without discussing it with you first.

Look, I know you are put under a lot of pressure yourself,

but I just want you to know that I would never force

any kind of life on you.

I wouldn't either.

So I think moving forward,

we should always make decisions together.

Absolutely.

And look, I also think you should move forward

with Stevenson & Reid's expansion in Glasgow.

I promise to remain open

to wherever

even if that is.

Ooh.

Cross that bridge when we get to it.

But I can't wait to cross many.

Maybe Stevenson & Reid was international.

Hmm.

- I like that. - Yeah?

I love you, Riley.

I love you

I can't imagine a life .

Yes, well, maybe you don't have to.

He's out there.

Let's go see them.

♪ Tell me what can be

♪ Full and carefree

♪ It's snowing everywhere

♪ Excited to be here

♪ Let the rays of the sun shine over me ♪

♪ Shine your light, shine your light, shine your light ♪

♪ With your love in the air

♪ I'm feeling free

♪ Shining bright, shining bright, shining bright ♪