Original subtitles

- Merry Christmas.

- Oh, OK.

See, it's getting better.

But still... - The hair.

- Hello? - In here, Dad.

- Oh, kind of cute.

- What kind of trouble are you ladies getting into?

- Trying to find Terri a boyfriend.

- Don't make me sound so desperate.

We're just scouring one of the apps I'm on.

- What's an app?

- Dad!

- I'm kidding.

You're on Facechat.

- Ooh. He looks kind of cool. A musician.

- Whoa, Terri. No musicians, trust me.

- Dad, maybe you should get on one of these.

- I'm seeing someone. Thank you.

- Victoria? - You know her name's Veronica.

And she's coming to dinner later.

In the meantime, you go upstairs

and finish packing for tomorrow.

I saw that.

- Wasn't hiding it.

- She'll be fine.

It's gonna be tough for anyone who tries

to fill Kate's shoes.

- I hope keeping the lakeside tradition going

makes it easier for her.

First Christmas in a loft.

- What about you?

How are you doing?

- Meh...

I think it's time I started looking ahead.

- Exactly.

New year.

- New beginning.

- Well, I got to go. - OK, thank you.

- Well, maybe it'll be a merry Christmas after all.

I got a match.

Ooh, a lawyer.

- Better. - Yeah.

- Well, don't let us cramp your style.

Go.

- Bye, Terri. - See you soon, girl.

- I changed my mind.

We don't need to go see Santa this year.

- Wait, what?

- You know that I'm 10, not 2, right?

I still say I'm too old for this.

- You're never too old for a picture with the big guy.

- : Mommy!

- Fine.

- Ho, ho, ho!

Merry Christmas!

Ho, ho, ho.

And what do you want for Christmas this year,

little girl?

- I'm 10. - Oh, pardon me.

Big girl.

- What I want, you can't help me with.

- Oh, don't be so sure about that.

Santa's got helpers all over the world.

- OK, Santa. You're on.

Can you find a new girlfriend for my dad?

I'm hungry.

- Veronica will be here any minute.

- Are you gonna marry her?

- Whoa.

Grace, I am not marrying anyone any time soon.

- She's nothing like Mom.

- No one will ever replace your mother.

- I just want you to find someone

who loves you as much as Mom did.

And I don't think it's...

- : Sorry.

- She cancelled, huh? - Yeah.

It's a really busy time of year.

You know what?

Let's grab some pizza.

And maybe a hot chocolate after.

- You had me at "pizza."

- I'll grab your jacket.

- Nice work, Santa.

- Uh-huh.

Yes, um, I understand, but I just...

- So, I was thinking that we should totally

do a mistletoe setup at the fro--

- Uh, what--what if I made a partial payment today?

Then how much time would I have to make a full payment?

Yes, I know there's been a history of late payments.

What about another loan?

Yes, I understand.

Well, I'm sorry too.

OK, thank you for your time.

And merry Christmas to you too.

- So, uh...

I take it Mr. Scrooge didn't have a change of heart?

- Not so much.

- What'd he say?

- He said I have to come up with $25,000

by Christmas Eve,

or the bank's gonna foreclose on Maisie's.

- Christmas Eve?

- It's a totally real deadline, Ivan.

I thought I could fix all this.

- Hey, you did everything you could, OK?

Maisie was like a second mother to me.

And I know that she'd be so proud of you right now.

You gave up a lot.

Not everyone would do that.

- Well, we still have 5 days.

Maybe you could conjure up a Christmas miracle.

- No problem.

I'm on it.

- Grace, make sure you double check your bags.

Make sure you have everything for the ride.

And, oh, don't forget your drumsticks.

- Oh shoot!

- Hey, Veronica. What are you doing here?

- Oh, I wanted to see you off.

Hi, Gracie.

- It's Grace!

- Sorry I didn't make it over last night.

But I was going through the list for Martin,

and there's a property in Lakeside that's prime

to be a new Regal Roaster.

If we can get it acquired by the end of the year...

- It'll boost our 4th quarter numbers,

then we are guaranteed promotions.

- : Exactly.

- I promised Grace I wouldn't work over Christmas.

- OK, but this is a no-brainer.

You're gonna be there, anyway.

The owner's having financial problems.

It'll be quick and easy.

Grace won't even notice.

Martin's counting on us.

- I'll take care of it.

It's a win-win for both of us, right?

- Thanks, babe.

OK, have a safe drive

- Got something on your mind?

- No. You?

- No. You?

- When you and Mom met,

what did you like most about her?

- Everything.

First of all, she was beautiful.

And smart.

And sassy, like you.

I just knew from the start she was really thoughtful.

Oh, and she was never afraid of a challenge,

even when she knew she would lose.

Every day was--

- Like living the happy ending

of the best Christmas movie of all time?

- I never thought of it that way, but...

yeah, exactly.

- And what about Veronica?

- Grace. - Seriously.

I'm just trying to understand.

She seems more Jack Frost than Love Actually.

- It's not the same thing.

Your mom was the love of my life.

Veronica and I just started dating.

- But what is it you like most about her?

- Uh, uh...

She's...

nice.

And we work together, so it's--

- Convenient?

I get it, Dad. It's OK.

Lots of people like Jack Frost.

- Oh my goodness! - Grandma!

- I've missed you so much!

Ooh! Look how much you've grown!

How you doing, Jack?

Yeah? How was the drive?

- Mostly peaceful.

- Well, I hope you're hungry.

I got some gingerbread cookies fresh out of the oven.

- I'll grab the bags.

- Come on, let him do that.

We're gonna have...

: ...cookies!

- Yes!

- Ah!

Started with the head first.

Going, gone. - Mmm!

- Well, I guess we don't have to worry about lunch now.

- What's my policy, Jack? - Your house, your rules.

- Uh-huh.

- Is Robert at the shop?

- Where else would he be? - Yeah.

How's he doing after the surgery?

- Good.

Not quite as good as he claims, but good.

- Mm-hmm.

- And how are you doing?

- Good.

- Can we go to the shop and surprise Grandpa?

- You just want to go play the drums.

- And see Grandpa.

- Go, you can unpack when you get back.

- Well, let's do it.

- I'll go grab my sticks.

- Hey, Tim. Robert in?

- Hey, Jack. Yeah, I'll go get him.

- Thank you.

- Can I go play in the drum room?

- Sure. Go get them, Ringo.

- Sounds nice.

- Hey.

- So you're still writing? - Yeah.

- We are so happy that you came.

- Ah, it's good to be here.

- How's business? - Can't complain.

One thing about a small town is I don't have to compete

with those big music superstores.

And how is the lovely world

of commercial acquisitions treating you?

- Not bad, actually.

I'm in line for a promotion.

- Good for you.

- Grandpa! - Ha, ha!

Kiddo!

Wow, look at you.

- Can I show you what I've been practicing?

- I would be disappointed if you didn't.

- While you guys do that, I need a coffee.

I'm gonna hit Maisie's. Do you want something?

- I've had my one cup for the day.

Mary's been watching me like a hawk.

- Can I get a latte?

- Uh, we're not in Chicago, and you're 10.

- A decaf, then? - Closer.

- Thanks, Dad. Come on, Grandpa!

- Maybe you have a doppelganger here in Lakeside that's, like,

an heiress of some kind.

You don't know! It could totally happen.

- Ivan!

How about you refill the coffee...

... put out the cookies I just made,

and I will try to sell them,

and we'll make some actual money.

- Ooh.

See?

I'm telling you, this day is starting to turn around.

Smile. He's coming over.

Smile. - Ugh, Ivan...

Hi. Welcome to Maisie's.

How can I help you?

- A hot chocolate with whipped cream and sprinkles.

It's for my daughter.

I'll take a black coffee.

- Thank God.

- Coming right up.

- Is this the, uh, Ricochet Christmas album?

- Yeah, good catch.

I love this album.

- : Their harmonies...

- Are you new in town? - I live in Chicago.

But I'm here with my daughter for the holidays with family.

Uh, Mary and Robert Bishop?

- I'm--I'm so sorry for your loss.

- Thanks. I guess I forget everyone knows everyone here.

- Kind of.

- But I've been coming to Lakeside for years.

I don't think I've ever seen you here before.

- Um... - Dad.

- What happened to the drums?

- Grandpa said the student has become the master,

but I think he just needed a break.

He asked to bring home Maisie's coffee cake for tomorrow.

It's Grandma's favorite.

- I guess we'll take a coffee cake too.

- Hi, I'm Grace.

- Hi, Grace. I'm Jessica.

And this...

must be for you.

- Thanks, Jessica.

- You know what would go good with that?

- What?

- It's gingerbread with peppermint frosting.

On the house.

- Thanks.

- So that's two gingerbread cookies,

a hot chocolate and a cake pop,

and we haven't been here an hour.

- Uh, there you go.

- Thanks.

- Uh, that'll be $34.50.

Well, it was nice to meet you, Grace.

And you too. - Yeah, uh...

Jack.

- Jack.

Um, hope to see you guys in here again soon.

- I'm sure you will. Grace loves her hot chocolate.

I have to take this. Meet you at the shop.

I'll be real quick. Promise.

Hey.

- Hi. How was the drive?

- Easy. - Good.

Did you check your email?

- Oh, no, sorry.

I've been super busy since we've been here.

- Well, I sent you the property address.

It's called Maisie's cafe.

- Of course.

- You know it?

- I just walked out of there, actually.

It's kind of an institution around here.

- Well, an institution that's majorly going out of business.

The bank is planning to foreclose.

- Hmm, so much for the Christmas spirit.

The town's not gonna be happy about this one.

- Well, that's a they problem, not a we problem.

Our problem would be letting it go to auction,

and then possibly having to overpay for it

or lose it to another bidder.

We need them to accept the offer by Christmas Eve.

- Copy that.

- Promotion, here we come.

OK, I'll talk to you later.

- Great.

Wow, Mary, you did not have to go to all this trouble.

And on our first night.

- We are just so happy to have you here.

We felt like a little extra effort was warranted.

- This was your mom's favorite dish.

- I know.

- She always helped me make it.

- She really loved Christmas.

I know she'd be happy that we're all here together,

carrying on our traditions.

- And creating some new ones.

- To traditions, old and new.

- Mmm!

Speaking of traditions, how did your rehearsal go today?

You didn't overdo it, did you?

- Just some holiday tunes, nothing crazy.

You can't have the Christmas market

without Bishop's Music Emporium there.

- You didn't rock too hard, did you?

How's the old ticker after the surgery?

- I'll be fine.

You know, I've been thinking of retiring, but...

I don't know who I could trust to take over the store.

It would have to be someone

who understands music and business.

- Robert.

- What?

I--I'm not pressuring him.

I'm just saying if it's something that interested him...

- If you took over Grandpa's store,

does that mean we'd move to Lakeside?

- No.

Yes, if we...

That's...

Gracie, I have a job.

- You see what you started?

- I wasn't trying to start anything.

- It's fine.

Why don't we talk about something else.

- Hmm, how are things going with Veronica?

- Can I be excused?

- Gracie, we just sat down.

And--and your grandmother went to all this trouble.

- Jack, it's fine.

Grace, if you're done,

please take your plate to the kitchen.

- Of all the things she's adjusting to...

this is the hardest one.

- Give her time.

- If you really like Veronica, I'm sure Grace will come around.

- Do you guys think I'm moving too fast?

- Kate would want you to be happy.

And so do we.

- It's all gonna work out.

- : Are you sure you can't

do anything about it?

- Can I come in? - Sure.

- I brought you your dinner.

- I'm not hungry.

- Maybe some peppermint hot chocolate, your favorite.

- Thanks, Grandma,

but I've reached my sugar limit for the day.

- You OK?

- Yeah.

I'm good.

- Just you seemed to get a little upset

when I asked about your dad's girlfriend.

Don't you want him to be happy?

I know it's tough, but...

he's going to have to go out with other people

if he's ever going to find love again.

- Can't we help him find the right person?

- It doesn't work that way, sweetheart.

- Maybe it should.

Maybe he just needs a little push

in the right direction.

- You are so much like your mother.

- Dad says that too.

- I'll see you in the morning.

Maybe eat a little something.

- : Sometimes,

these things just aren't possible.

- : Looks like if I want my Christmas miracle

to happen, I'm gonna have to do it myself.

- Morning. - Oh, morning, Jack.

Grace wants to come to the store with me today.

I told her she'd probably get bored, but she insisted.

- I got to practice.

Keith Moon didn't become the greatest drummer

of all time by sitting at home.

- If it's OK with you. - No problem.

- I have to take care of something in town, anyway.

So I can pick her up in a bit. - All right.

Grab your stuff. Let's get going.

- Can I use your printer?

- Of course. - Thank you.

- Come on, kiddo. Let's go.

- Have fun.

- Hey, Tim, I got a lesson starting up.

You mind keeping an eye on Grace?

- Yeah, you got it.

Hey, guys.

Checking out this one?

- Hey.

- Grace, hi.

You back for another hot chocolate?

- Yes, please.

- Where's your dad?

- I was hoping I could talk to you about something.

- Sure, what's up?

- Actually, it's kind of personal.

Do you think we can talk in private?

- I got you covered.

- Sure.

There you go.

So...

what can I do for you?

- I know we just met and you don't know me very well,

but I wanted to ask your help with something.

- Can you ask my dad out on a date?

- Uh, hi.

I just thought Grace might want a little treat.

- Thanks!

- Thank you, Ivan.

Grace...

your dad seems like a really nice guy.

- He's more than nice.

- I bet.

Why do you want me to ask your dad on a date?

- It's kind of hard to explain.

- I'm a good listener.

Did you know I knew your mom?

- Really? - Mm-hmm.

She was kind of a big deal around here.

She was a couple years older than me,

and I wanted to be just like her.

She had an amazing voice.

I bet you miss her a lot.

Can I share something else with you?

I lost my mom last year too.

So I know a little bit about what you're going through.

- What was her name?

- Maisie.

She was amazing.

This is her place.

So we kind of have something in common.

And I want you to know you can trust me.

- My mom wanted to make sure that my dad fell in love again.

He's seeing this woman named Veronica,

but she's totally wrong for him.

I asked Santa to find him a new girlfriend,

but I don't think he's gonna be much help.

So I decided to take matters into my own hands.

And yesterday when he was talking to you,

that was the first time I've seen him smile like that

in a long time.

- Grace, I'm so flattered.

But if your dad is already seeing someone,

then he's trying to move forward.

And you might not like her now,

but maybe she'll grow on you.

Just give it time.

- I doubt it. I like you way more.

And this is only the second time we've met.

- I like you too.

Hey...

Your dad is gonna find happiness again.

Trust me.

Now, can I ask you something?

Does anyone know where you are right now?

- No, I'm supposed to be in the drum room.

- : That's what I thought.

Let's get you back.

- Are you gonna tell him what I said?

- No.

But I think you should.

- Hey, Tim.

Grace?

You know where Grace is?

- She's not in the...

Tim?

- Hey, look who I found.

- Hey.

What are you doing running off like that

without telling anybody?

You know better than that.

- I didn't mean to scare you.

I'm sorry.

- I got to get back, but, um,

you take care of yourself, Grace.

And remember what I told you.

- I know. I will.

- Thanks, Jess. - Of course.

- Yeah, tha--

Thanks again.

- It's no problem. She's been through a lot.

- Yeah. Uh...

What'd she say?

- I'm gonna let her tell you.

She promised she would, so...

Good luck.

- Yeah, you too.

- What do I need luck for?

- Pfft... General luck.

Christmas stuff, right?

- Thanks.

- Martin.

- I knew I'd find you here.

One of the many reasons you and Jack are my favorite team.

- Jack is actually on the ground,

securing a fabulous new Regal Roasters location

in Lakeside.

- I thought he was on vacation.

- That's how committed we are.

- That's what I like to hear.

We can't lose this account.

And if you and Jack can get this location

before the New Year,

you're the team to bring Regal Roasters global.

Don't let me down.

- Consider it done.

- Hey, what are you doing there?

So what's going on?

- Nothing.

You're just gonna tell me it's stupid.

- Stupid?

You're smarter than me.

It's just, you know, I'm a little concerned.

It's not like you to run off without telling anybody.

- Dad, it's Lakeside.

There's, like, one stoplight.

- That's a good point.

So, what--what's this all about?

- I went to the coffee shop

to see if Jessica would ask you out on a date.

- You what?

- I saw the way you looked at her.

I haven't seen you look at anyone like that

in a long time.

And I thought if you liked her,

you would stop dating Veronica.

- Grace, why don't you like Veronica?

- Because she's not right for you.

She only cares about her job.

And you deserve someone so much better.

And...

I promised Mom that I would make sure you were happy.

- : Come here.

Listen to me.

It's the other way around.

I'm here to take care of you.

- Jessica really didn't tell you what happened?

- No.

She had your back.

- She's pretty cool, isn't she?

Objectively, of course.

- Yeah, she is.

Time for bed.

- Good night.

- What did she say?

- She wanted Jessica to ask me out on a date.

- Why did she say that?

- She promised Kate she would make sure I was happy.

- At least Jessica was a good sport about it.

She was looking out for Grace.

- Yeah, she made sure that Grace told me the truth.

- Well, Jessica always did have a good head on her shoulders.

- She was one of the most talented students I ever had.

You know she had a record deal in Nashville?

But she gave it up to come back and look after her mom.

- Maisie.

She was a sweet woman.

She passed away last year.

- That's why she's behind.

- Behind what? - Nothing.

Um...

Hey, I got to run an errand.

- Is everything OK?

- Uh, yeah. - Say hi to Jessica for us.

- I'm sorry, but she literally threw down moves from, like,

three different holiday movies.

I mean, she asked Santa for a new mom.

- I think she asked for a new girlfriend for her dad.

There is a difference. - Uh, whatever.

Either way, don't you see what's happening here?

The holiday spirit is upon us.

- Really?

Because I don't think there's any way

I could come up with that money in the next four days.

Ivan...

I think maybe we need to accept

that this is our last Christmas at Maisie's.

I know. Come on.

- : Jess!

Jessica!

Look who's back.

What are you doing? It's cold out.

Go--go get him.

- Have fun.

- Hey.

- Oh, I thought you were closed.

- I was just locking up.

Uh, come on in. It's cold.

- Oh, yeah.

Thanks.

So...

Grace--Grace told me what happened.

And I just wanted to say thank you.

- Of course.

I mean, she's pretty amazing for a 10 year old.

- Yeah.

More like 10 going on 25.

- Definitely more emotionally mature

than most adults I know,

so you're doing something right.

- Thanks.

Sometimes, it's hard to see the forest through the trees.

- Isn't it "for the trees"?

I think...

Um...

It's been a long day.

I was just gonna grab a drink.

Did you want to join me?

- Oh. I...

- You know what?

Don't worry about it. We don-- - Oh, no, no.

No, I--I'd love to, actually.

But it's on me.

It's the least I can do.

- Sure.

- Great. Um...

Do you know a place?

- Course I do.

: Thank you!

Thank you!

- : so...

Nashville, huh?

Yeah, yeah, I sang backup for some people,

wrote some songs.

- I heard it was a record contract.

- I started recording an album.

But then my mom...

- I--I heard.

I'm--I'm really sorry.

- Thank you.

What about you?

Robert always said you were an incredible musician.

- Yeah, well, I'm more of a songwriter.

Did he tell you about my Fuddrucker days?

- The burger chain?

- No, it was the name of my band in college.

Yeah, I played keyboards and wrote songs.

- So, like, leather jackets and long hair?

- Eh... less leather, more plaid.

It was college in the '90s.

- Nice.

So, what got you from keyboards to corporate?

- Well, I met Kate.

And we wanted to start a family.

And I knew music wasn't gonna pay the bills.

- Sounds pretty noble to me.

- Mmm... maybe.

- Grace mentioned you're seeing someone in Chicago,

and I--I think that's really great

that you're trying to move forward.

- Can you, uh, can you tell Grace that?

She's not a very big fan of Veronica.

- She mentioned that too.

- Yeah.

How about you?

Anyone special in your life?

- I had a boyfriend in Nashville,

but he didn't want to give up his dreams and leave, so...

And, honestly, I haven't really had time since I've been here.

But it looks like I'm gonna have

a lot more free time on my hands pretty soon.

- What does that mean?

- I'm gonna lose Maisie's.

I have four days until the bank forecloses.

- What about selling it? I'm in real-estate.

I'm sure you could get a really decent offer.

- Oh, no. I've had them.

I've had them and I've considered some, but...

the people who want to buy,

they don't want Maisie's.

They want to--they want to knock it down

and put in some terrible cookie-cutter chain,

and I just--I can't do it.

So at least if the bank forecloses,

they're the ones taking the wrecking ball

to it, you know?

That's what I keep telling myself, anyway.

So, I am waiting for a Christmas miracle.

- I have an idea.

I'll be right back.

- Where are you going? - Trust me.

Ladies and gentlemen,

we have a very special treat tonight.

Singing a very magical holiday mashup...

- : No!

- ... please welcome to the stage... Jessica.

- I'm gonna kill you. - Show me what you got.

- : That's exciting. Why not?

- Hello.

A mashup.

Ooh!

- Oh yeah!

- Me?

- Yeah!

- Whoo!

- Thank you.

- Wow.

Uh, first of all, you're a sport.

I mean, you shine up there.

- Thank you.

- When was the last time you were on stage?

- I got to headline a night at the Bluebird

right before I left Nashville.

It was incredible.

- I know that smile.

It feels good, right? - It does.

- Yeah.

- What about you?

When's the last time you performed?

- Oh, more years than I can count.

- Well, there's no time like the present.

- So I discovered Robert's stash a few years ago.

- I used to spend hours sitting at a piano like this,

searching for that perfect melody.

- Hmm.

- I feel alive when I sing.

- Well, you sure look alive when you're on stage.

- All right, enough stalling.

Let's hear it.

And no covers.

Jack originals only, please.

- Jack origi--

OK.

Well, only because there's a song that's been...

running around in my head, but I haven't finished it.

So...

no judging.

- I promise nothing.

- I haven't played this for anyone.

So it could be really bad. - Just play.

- Jack...

Wow.

That was...

Wow.

There it is. - Yeah.

- Why didn't you finish it?

- Didn't have the heart.

- You should finish it.

And I should go.

- Uh, yeah.

Yeah, yeah, me too.

- It's late.

- Uh, Grace and I are going to the Christmas market tomorrow.

Um, do you want to grab dinner beforehand?

- Oh, no, I...

I mean, I would love to, but I can't.

- Yeah.

- I have a booth at the market. - Of course.

- Every dollar counts right now. - Yeah.

- Um...

Do you and Grace want to just come by and say hi,

get a hot chocolate?

- Sounds like a plan.

See you tomorrow.

- : All right.

Good morning! - Hi.

- Good morning. How you doing?

- Hey, Dad. - Hey.

- So, how was your date last night?

- I don't know what your grandparents told you,

but I had an errand to run last night.

- Oh, they said that.

Then we all agreed that you were heading over

to see Jessica.

- Uh, OK, I don't think I like where this is heading.

We talked about this.

- We did, but I can't help it if the universe has

different plans for you.

- OK, shush, shush. Leave your dad be.

I'm sure he just wanted to thank Jessica again

for being so nice to you.

- Pancakes? - Sure.

And thank you.

So, to recap:

I had an errand to run last night,

and then I ran into Jessica,

and then maybe we talked for a little bit.

But it wasn't a date!

- Were you at a restaurant?

- Maybe.

- Was there music playing in the background?

- Yes. - Then it was a date!

Wait, did you guys talk about me?

- Hmm.

Yeah, we talked about you the whole time.

- Dad!

- OK, let your dad eat in peace.

Why don't you run upstairs and get ready,

and maybe we can get some shopping in

before we head to the Christmas market.

- Oh, actually, uh,

Jessica said she has a booth

and I should take you by for a hot chocolate.

- Cool!

I'll ask about your date when we see her later.

Kidding.

Not kidding!

- So...

how did that thank you really go?

- I bought her a drink.

Anyway, how many guys you got in the band tonight?

- Just me and Tim.

We're only there for the background noise.

- Oh, sorry. I got to take this.

Hey, what's up?

- I was kind of surprised

I didn't hear from you last night.

- Uh, yeah, the day got away from me.

There was some drama with Grace.

- What happened?

- Uh, it's kind of complicated.

I'll tell you about it some other time.

But everything's OK.

- OK, well, any luck with the property?

Martin was really impressed that we were able

to get things in motion so close to the end of the year.

- Yeah, um, I made contact with the owner.

But...

to do this right before Christmas,

I mean...

- OK, Jack, I don't love the timing of this either,

but we're not the only firm waiting this one out.

I assured Martin this was ours.

- The owner doesn't want to sell to a developer or a chain.

She thinks if she does,

she might as well be destroying the place herself.

What--what if I get her to agree

to a small extension from the bank?

And when that deadline comes

and she still can't make the payments,

we make sure that she sells to us.

- You think you can get the bank to agree to an extension?

- Yes, yes, this is Kate's hometown.

I know people here.

- I don't know, Jack.

What if she finds another way to get the money?

- She's not gonna make 25 grand selling lattes and coffee cakes.

Look, this is a win for everybody, right?

We derail the potential buyers without looking like monsters,

and Jessica feels like she has one more chance

to save her business.

- Jessica?

- Yeah, uh, um, that's--that's the owner's name.

- You really think you can convince her?

- Yes, I do.

I'll get Martin on board on this end, but...

you've got to get this done.

- I will.

- Keep me posted.

I'll talk to you later.

- Hey. - Hey.

- Sorry I'm late. - All good.

- How was ping pong?

- Good.

How was your night?

- Fine.

We just grabbed a drink.

- Just fine, huh?

- We just had a drink.

- I think you were on a date.

- No, it was definitely not a date?

- It was a date. - Ugh, yo--

The market is opening soon. We need to finish setting up.

- Pretty chipper for someone who was "not on a date."

- You're the worst.

- : Ho, ho, ho!

And what would you like for Christmas?

- : Oh!

- : Beautiful!

- : Oh, nice!

- : Wow. - : Great.

- : Ho, ho, ho!

- : Those lights! - : Thank you!

- Hey, Jessica!

- Hey, you. Did you want another hot chocolate?

- Yeah.

- Uh, do you think your dad would want one?

- Sure, and my grandma too.

- Hey, guys.

- Here you go. Just the way you like it.

- Thanks.

- Mary, so good to see you.

- You too, Jess.

- Robert is sounding amazing as usual.

- I will tell him you said that.

I'm sure it'll make his day.

- Here you go. - Perfect.

One for you and one for you.

- Thank you.

- Grandma, can you take me over to see Santa?

- Mmm.

- I thought you were too old for Santa.

- We may have some unfinished business.

- Sure, honey. Come on.

- Uh, do you have a second?

- Yes, she does.

I--I got this.

You kids, uh, have fun.

- Thank you, Ivan.

- Oh, he's ready, honey.

Here. - Thanks.

- Ho, ho, ho!

And what would you like for Christmas this year, li--

- Listen,

I already asked another Santa back home for something,

but I need to change what I want.

Is that gonna be a problem?

- Um... - It's OK.

I know you're not Santa anymore than he was,

but can you get my wish to the real guy?

- I can definitely try.

- Great. You see that woman and man over there?

- Yes.

- I told the other Santa that I wanted

a new girlfriend for my dad.

But now I know that I want it to be her.

Can you make that happen?

- I can certainly pass along the message.

- Great!

And nice beard, by the way.

It looks totally real.

- So, I was thinking about your situation with the bank.

- Yeah?

- And I think I have an idea to help.

How about a fundraiser?

- I've already done a Go Fund Me.

People have given so much.

I--I can't ask for more.

- No, no, no. This isn't a Go Fund Me.

I'm talking about a concert.

A Christmas concert with you as the headliner.

- No, I--I can't do that.

I mean, I haven't performed in a very long time.

- I saw you up there the other night.

You're amazing.

- Jack, this is crazy.

I mean, how could I possibly get it together so fast?

- That's where we come in.

I already talked to Mary and Robert about it.

They think it's a great idea. The town will love a concert!

Maisie's is Lakeside.

We have to try to save it.

- Jack, the payment is due in three days.

I mean, I was seriously considering just selling

to the next buyer that makes an offer.

- Trust me, you don't want to do that.

Let us help you.

- So, what'd she say?

Did you tell her that I could be her drummer?

- Well?

- Let's get to work.

- Yes!

- Whoo!

- Yeah!

Nice. - We got it.

- Gonna be great. It's gonna be great!

- Can't believe we're actually doing this.

- See? All we needed was a little Christmas spirit

and my super savvy marketing skills.

- Very impressive, by the way.

- Thank you. - No, thank you.

- I think this calls for a toast.

- That's a great idea.

To... a second chance.

- In more ways than one. - Stop it!

You know I'm talking about the concert and saving Maisie's.

- Of course. Of course.

But why not allow for the possibility

that Jack may want to save you too?

- Oh, OK, first of all, I do not need a man to save me.

Not to mention the fact that he's already dating someone.

So why are we even talking about this?

- Are you kidding me?

That guy's working his tail off

to make sure this fundraiser happens.

Now, I may be single,

but I know a romantic gesture when I see one.

And this, my friend...

is one massive gesture.

- Robert, are you OK?

- Yeah, I'm just a little tired.

This was all a lot easier when I was your age.

- Did you see what I did on that last chorus, Grandpa?

Straight fire.

- Just, uh, nod and smile.

- Straight fire.

- Uh, where'd your dad go?

- Back in Grandpa's office.

- Come help your Grandpa load up the gear, all right?

- Hey, done for the day?

- Yeah.

What are you working on?

- Just looking at the event page.

Ivan just sent over the newest version.

- Can I see? - Yeah, of course.

OK, so, we're gonna have a QR-code stand at the door

so people can make donations.

Tickets are $20, but they can get more if they want to.

We already have a bunch of followers on social media,

and that keeps climbing, so we're in good shape.

- Wow.

And you made sure that everyone can get

their money back if we fall short?

- Yes, Ivan took care of that.

- Wow, I cannot believe you guys pulled this together so fast.

I--I don't know what I did to deserve it.

- Well, I, uh, I think you were due.

- Thank you.

- Jessica...

- I'm--I'm so sorry.

- No, no, don't be sorry.

- I thought that... - No, no.

I do, I do. That's not it.

- You have a girlfriend. - Uh, yes.

But there's another reason.

- Then what is it?

I need to tell you something.

- That sounds ominous.

- No, no, I just--

I just want you to know everything up front.

- Dad, Dad, come in here!

Dad!

- What happened?

- We were cleaning up then, all of a sudden,

he just lost his breath and fell down.

- I'm fine.

I--I'm just a little winded. That's all.

- Whoa, what are you doing? Stay there.

- I'm gonna call an ambulance. - Good idea.

- I'm OK. I don't need it.

- You need it.

- : Hello?

We need an ambulance at Bishop's Music Emporium.

Right away.

: Hey.

There you go.

- I'm sure it's not as good as yours.

- Probably not, but it'll keep you awake.

How are you doing?

- Meh.

I don't love hospitals much.

- Me either.

He's gonna be OK, Jack.

- Thanks for being here.

- : Of course.

- Oh, Mary, what did the doctor say?

- Is he...

- He--he's gonna be fine.

- Another heart attack?

- No, just a warning.

The doctor says he's been pushing himself

a little too hard the last few days.

That old fool has never known how to take it easy.

- So, he's OK?

- Yes, sweetheart.

Mmm!

Jessica, would you do me a favor and take Grace in?

I just want to talk to Jack for a second.

- Of course.

- Robert is too proud to ask you,

but you're gonna have to step in for him tomorrow.

- But, Mary, I haven't been on stage in years.

- Jack, you were and are an amazing musician.

You sit at that piano and it's magic.

- Mary. - Look.

This isn't difficult stuff, and you know it.

I'm guessing you've heard it enough over the last few days

to play it in your sleep.

Look, I'm--I'm worried about him, Jack.

The man has one speed.

And I'm just afraid of what's gonna happen

if he keeps pushing himself.

- Hey.

Well, you look a lot better than you did a couple hours ago.

- Yeah.

- Thanks for not listening to me.

- Yeah, I've gotten pretty good at that

over the years, haven't I?

- So, we were just talking,

and I think it's probably best if we cancel the show.

I mean, there's--there's no way we can do it now.

- Yeah, there is.

- How?

- I'll take his place.

- What?

- I think that's a great idea.

- Yeah, my dad can totally do it.

- I'm no Robert Bishop,

but I can handle a few Christmas tunes.

- Jack, I can't ask you to do that.

You've already done too much for me.

- The show...

- : ...must go on.

- OK, on one condition.

- What?

- We play your song.

I think this is the perfect chance for you to finish it.

But we do it together.

- Deal.

- : Hey, welcome.

Scan right there.

Thank you so much. Enjoy the show.

Thank you show much. Enjoy the show.

Hey.

- How are we doing, Ivan?

- We're doing good, but we still got a ways to go.

- Fingers crossed. - Fingers crossed.

Hi! - Hey.

- Welcome. - Thank you.

- Thank you so much.

Enjoy the show.

- It's almost time.

You ready?

- Ready as I'll ever be.

You?

- You know Jacky-Jack's ready.

It's--it's a '90s thing.

Come on, let's get you backstage.

Uh, wait.

Jack, I just...

Before we go, I want to say:

No matter what happens tonight,

I am so incredibly grateful to you

for everything you've done.

- Everything we've done.

- : Let's go.

- Are you guys ready?

- Yeah? - Yeah.

- All right, here it goes.

Hello, Lakeside!

Thank you all for being here tonight and coming out

to support one of our town's favorite daughters

and her family's long-time business.

Please welcome to the stage Jessica McFall!

- Thank you, Mary.

Wow, thank you so much!

I--I hope we can live up to that incredible welcome.

Before we get started,

there is one person I want to single out

for helping put this all together.

And that is Jack Cooper.

Thank you, Jack, for everything.

This first song is very special.

It's for those we love and for those we miss.

And I hope you enjoy it.

- Whoo!

- Thank you.

Thank you so much.

You know, my mom, she would have been so touched

to know how much Maisie's means to all of you.

And, uh, I just feel so lucky to come from a town

like Lakeside, where I have so much support.

So let's keep this party going.

- Hi.

Are you here for the concert?

- Not exactly.

- Uh, excuse me. A donation is required.

- Well, we're just gonna take a quick break.

And we'll be right back.

- Veronica, wait!

- You know, I thought it was weird I hadn't heard from you

in a couple days, but I thought:

"Maybe he needs a little help.

I mean, it is Christmas, after all."

So I called the bank, and guess what I found out?

You lied about securing the extension.

The bank had no idea what I was talking about.

- Veronica, let me explain.

- You must be Veronica.

I'm Jessica, and Jack's been trying to help me save my cafe.

He's--he's been amazing.

- Your cafe.

She has no idea, does she?

- Uh, about what?

- Do you want to tell her, or should I?

- Uh, tell me what, Jack?

- Jack and I work for Granville Property.

And we wanted to buy Maisie's.

And Jack told us that he'd get the bank to agree

to an extension so that when you couldn't raise the money,

he'd convince you to sell to us.

But clearly, he has other plans in mind.

- Dad, is that true?

- Yes.

But it...

It--it's more complicated than that.

Jessica, please listen to me.

Jessica, wait, wait.

Please, let me try to explain!

- Explain what?

How you played on my emotions?

How you--you actually convinced me

that we could save Maisie's when it was--it was your job

to come here and destroy it!

- No! That wasn't the plan at all.

I didn't even know the property was Maisie's until after we met.

And you opened up to me, and we had this connection.

And then I couldn't let you lose Maisie's.

I just... - You just what?

You just took pity on me?

- No, no, I was trying to help!

- How, Jack? By dragging me into this mess?

By--by convincing me we could do this

and embarrassing me in front of the whole town?

You...

You just wanted to save your job.

- That...

I tried to tell you this the other day.

- I trusted you.

- I re--I really believed that this would work.

- How could you even say that

when you had a backup plan in your pocket?

Oh God!

- Jessica, wait.

Jessica, Jessica!

Listen. Listen.

It doesn't have to be this way.

You can go back in there and you can finish.

You're so close!

- I thought it was "we."

- You know I'm gonna have to tell Martin what you did, right?

He's gonna have to fire you.

- Do you really think I care about that at all right now?

- Goodbye, Jack.

I hope you know what you're doing.

- Where's Jessica?

- Jack, we're still short.

What are we gonna do?

- Tell everybody the show's over.

And make sure everybody gets their money back.

- How'd it go?

What happened?

- You go. She needs you now.

I'll fill him in.

Not a good night.

- I don't know what to say, Grace.

I really screwed up.

- Why didn't you just tell her the truth?

That's what you always tell me to do.

- I know, but I was scared to tell her who I was

and who I worked for,

'cause I was afraid she wouldn't like me very much.

But here we are.

So...

I guess you're right.

I should have told her the truth.

- Well, I wasn't totally honest with you.

So, maybe it's my fault.

- What are you talking about?

- I wasn't just trying to get Jessica

to ask you out on a date.

I told Santa that I wanted her to be your new girlfriend.

And there's more.

I didn't just promise Mom that I would make sure

you were happy.

Mom wanted you to fall in love again,

and I promised I'd help.

- Grace...

- You like her, Dad. I know you do.

But now it's a mess.

- Yeah, it is.

- How do we fix it?

- I don't think that's possible.

- Maybe Santa still has time to finish the job?

- The big guy?

- Yeah.

At the very least, you have to tell her how you feel.

You have to try, Dad.

- Why are you so smart?

- I watch a lot of Christmas movies,

but also because I'm like Mom.

- Yeah, you are.

I love you so much.

Boy, did I blow it?

- You sure did.

But maybe there's still time for you to fix it.

- How?

- We have an idea we'd like to talk to you about.

- You did your best.

- Did I? - Yes.

- I let everyone down.

I let you down.

- You could never let me down.

And don't you worry about me, OK?

I've had people like you and Maisie in my life.

I'm gonna be fine.

- Come here.

- Call me later? - Yeah.

I'm sorry, Mom.

We're closed.

- Maybe not.

Before you tell me to leave, just hear me out.

I think we have a plan to keep this place open.

- Your last plan didn't work out so well, did it?

Besides, it's too late, Jack.

We missed the deadline.

It's already Christmas.

- It's never too late for a Christmas miracle.

- What?

- Since I seem to have found myself in need of a job,

I'm taking over the day-to-day at the music shop.

And we have a business proposition for you.

We want to invest in Lakeside, $25,000 to be exact.

We believe in Maisie's and we believe in you.

- I don't want your charity.

- It's not charity. - It is, Jack.

You barely know me.

- I know we just met...

but I do know you.

You're kind and you're genuine.

And you stand up for what you believe in,

even when you know you might lose.

I should have told you the truth.

And I'm sorry I didn't.

But when I met you, I felt feelings

that I haven't felt in a really long time.

You even brought music back into my life.

I know where Grace and I belong now.

It's here with you.

What do you say?

- I say...

Merry Christmas.

Oh.

- And there you go.

- Thanks for coming in.

See you guys tonight.

- Dad says he finished his lesson

and we can meet him at the shop.

- Perfect. OK, Ivan?

We're heading over. See you there.

- OK, bye.

- Seriously, what should we get for him?

- Maybe a drum set?

- I know. A guitar.

Custom, right? - Yes!

Ooh, with his name on it!

- Yes! And maybe you could paint it?

- Look at that timing!

- Hey, you.

- I love it when a plan comes together.

Dad, Jess!

- : Coming.

- Hey, guys.

- Grandpa!

- Ah, hey. - Mary.

- Ah!

You guys all ready for your concert tonight?

It sold out! - Yeah!

Ready as we'll ever be.

- Yeah, we are.

- Grace, you want to go see Santa?

- No thanks, Grandma. I'm good.

I've got everything I want already.

- Can we get that in writing?

Closed Captions: MELS