RIP-FIXES-SYNC by VaVooM
On the ice now is Claire Benson,
who hopes her last three years with Julian King,
who has a flawless record for coaching champions,
will cinch her that gold medal today.
Well, it seems Claire has gotten the crowd into a festive spirit.
And why not?
The energy and emotion she has brought to the ice is incredible.
If she can land her triple axel, she may take that gold.
And she's setting it up...
Oh, no!
A devastating technical error for Claire Benson.
Looks like it will be silver for Claire Benson tonight.
Oh, great, there you are.
Okay, which one do you think for the front door?
That one.
Yeah, I thought so, too.
Okay, about a Christmas tree?
Wanna go this weekend?
I have to train this weekend.
So I guess that means
you forgot the Stuart Christmas brunch?
Mom, Nationals are just a few weeks away,
before Christmas.
Baby, you never stop.
Mom, I am fine.
And Julian's just trying to get me to where I want to go.
That's why dad hired him.
Yeah, well, your dad pushed too hard, too.
Maybe if he hadn't, he'd still be here.
Look, if you want, we can go and get a tree this weekend.
Sweetie, that's not the point.
Claire, when is the last time you went out with a friend?
Mom...
I'm just saying.
There may come a day
when you regret not having lived more life
outside the arena.
Look, the only thing I will regret is never making it to Worlds.
I'm gonna go shower.
Toe, Claire, toe! Toe!
Bring those arms in, come on!
Compress, Claire!
Come on!
Let's go!
Focus!
Again!
Arms in tight now!
Claire, get over here.
You've got to keep that energy into it, okay?
You're slowing it down, all right?
You've got to keep the energy going!
What is wrong with you? You're distracted, or...
I'm frustrated because I'm not nailing the jump.
Hey, what do I always say?
"Don't get frustrated, get focused."
Right.
I know, but I can't have a repeat performance
at Nationals in four weeks.
Claire, we made a promise to one another after last Nationals.
What was it?
I promised that I wouldn't give up.
And I promised I'd get you to Worlds.
Now, let's go.
Again.
All right.
Toe, Claire! Toe!
What did I say?
Get up, let's go again. Come on.
It's colder sitting down, than it is skating.
I don't think I can.
Well, the good news is
there's no sign of any fractures or sprains.
The bad news is
your Achilles is in pretty rough shape.
What are we talking about here?
A sprain or a tear?
Most likely a tear, which isn't surprising.
I mean, Claire, you and I both know
that you've been dealing with tendonitis
for quite some time now.
We've been supporting those injuries with cortisone...
What's the recovery time?
Four, six weeks.
I barely feel it when I walk.
How bad can it be?
Come on, Claire,
you know, just because you don't feel it
doesn't mean you should stress it.
Which is why rest, and a lot of...
Thank you very much, doctor.
Would you mind if we just had a few moments here?
Yeah.
Thank you.
I'm going to have your medical records
sent to West Ridge Rehab, okay?
You can fly out in the morning.
What?
That's all the way up in the mountains.
I don't need to go up there.
I love your commitment, Claire,
but we need you in top form for Nationals,
and West Ridge has the best accelerated program
in the country, okay?
Trust me, we'll have you back in a few weeks.
Well, Julian, it's no secret that you have an unbroken record
for getting your skaters to the World Championship.
Is Claire any different?
Absolutely not. In fact, I'll promise you
not only will Claire make it to Worlds,
she'll get gold at Nationals.
Well, that certainly puts a lot of pressure on you, Claire.
Don't worry, my girl will do it.
We should be at the West Ridge Clinic in about 20 minutes.
Enjoy the scenery.
Okay, thanks.
These roads are terrible.
Hang tight.
What's going on?
The road's aren't clear.
- We could be stuck. - Stuck?
You got any chains?
Excuse me.
Nope, no chains.
Could you help us get back on the road, please?
There's nothing I can do, not without chains.
You'll have to wait for a tow.
I can barely get a signal on my phone up here.
I can call it in when I get back to town.
Okay, great. How long will that take?
Could be 45 minutes, an hour,
and that's assuming he's not on another job.
There's one tow truck?
Yeah. Yeah, Joey's your man.
This is ridiculous.
Stuck in the middle of nowhere...
How far is it to the West Ridge Rehab Clinic?
It's 20 minutes by foot, but I wouldn't recommend it,
not in those Peter Pan boots.
I can give you a lift.
I'll be fine, thank you.
Careful of the wolves!
You sure you don't want a lift?
Okay, sure,
but if I didn't have all these bags, I would be fine.
Yeah, right.
You, you need a hand with your luggage?
This is fine. Thanks. I can manage.
I'll put that call in to Joey.
Great.
Thank you...
Luke.
- And you are... - Claire.
Claire.
Well, Claire, welcome to West Ridge.
Thanks.
Welcome to West Ridge.
We have a room all ready for you so you can warm up.
When can I see a doctor?
Let's see, your first physio appointment
is at 10:00 a.m. tomorrow morning.
Can't I see someone now?
Oh no, it's after 4:00.
Time for rest and recovery.
Hot cider?
Why not?
Thanks.
You all settled in?
Yeah. I guess.
Yeah, well, Joey made sure
that your ride made it back down the mountain in one piece.
Right.
Thanks for helping me out with that.
That's what we do around here, we help each other out.
Then how come I end up doing all the heavy lifting?
Claire, this is my good friend, Lou.
Luke and Lou?
That's cute.
Peter Pan boots.
I just wasn't prepared for all this snow.
Don't worry about it, most city folk aren't.
Well, we should get going.
We've got a lot more wood to deliver.
Well, thanks for all this.
Hey, what are gentlemen for?
Tell you what,
use up as much as you like,
and don't burn it all in one place.
Okay. Good night.
- Keep warm. - Thanks.
Welcome back, Ms. Benson. How was your run?
It was fine, thanks, except for those explosions.
What was that?
Those are just the charges they set off
to prevent an avalanche.
Avalanche?
Don't worry.
We haven't had one.
Not recently anyhow.
Okay.
Your tendons are suffering with micro-tears,
and not just in the Achilles,
but in the posterior and anterior tibial.
Have you been treated with cortisone in the past?
I have to compete.
Well, unfortunately, the muscles have been weakened,
and that's why you're getting these injuries.
But I feel strong.
Do you?
I have to be in top form for Nationals.
Well, we'll start with a combined program
of IMS, shock wave therapy,
the traditional physio, and my favorite, rest.
But if you bind it,
- I can still skate, right? - You can.
But absolutely no jumps.
- For what, a week? - Four.
Four.
They said it'll be four weeks
before I can even work on my jump.
Four weeks? Well, that's impossible.
The Nationals are in four weeks.
I know.
I told you I shouldn't have come here.
Anna, from your toe!
Lift from your toe!
Who's Anna?
Just a junior skater I'm assessing.
Anna Wolk?
Isn't she my competition?
I'm not training her, Claire.
Listen, you obviously need to get back on the ice,
so I'm going to talk to your doctor, all right?
Claire, remember, you're strong, okay?
You can push through this.
Have you been down on the lake checking out the ice lately?
Yeah, I was just clearing off the snow this morning.
Still too thin in spots for any fishing,
but that cold snap we're getting
should have it set in a couple days.
Don't you worry.
Excuse me, Luke?
Hey, Claire.
Hey, do you know...
What do you think?
Pretty festive, right?
Yeah, it's, really nice.
Do you know where I could get a pair of skates sharpened?
Yeah, at the Tack Shack, just across the square there.
Perfect. Thank you.
You're welcome.
What? Cut it out.
Hello?
Great.
I guess Joey runs this place, too.
Oh, it's you.
You're everywhere.
I was hoping it was whoever owns this place.
I mean, how do they expect us to wait for 20 minutes?
Well, sometimes, you've gotta put things on hold
to give a hand.
'Tis the season after all.
It's your shop?
How can I help you?
I, didn't realize...
That's all right.
I get it.
You city folk don't like to wait.
Now, how about those skates?
They could use a sharpening,
but I doubt you know the correct hollow radius.
I'm guessing you'd prefer a three-eighths radius
rather than a thicker one.
Am I right?
Yeah, that's right.
Okay, I'll make sure they're nice and level.
So, how did you injure yourself?
I fell while training.
Figure skater, huh?
Lucky guess.
And what are you, like the town handyman?
Why would you say that?
Well, so far you deliver wood, put up decorations,
and sharpen skates.
All right, I get it.
Well, to be honest,
I didn't have much time for anything before,
so now maybe I'm making up for that.
So, I guess you'd be the guy to ask
if there's a skating rink nearby?
Are you looking for an indoor rink?
'Cause that closed down a couple years ago.
There's an outdoor one, though.
It's nothing fancy, but it's ice,
and everyone skates on it.
And would the shuttle know where to drop me off?
Yeah, sure, it's right by the clinic.
But it's closed today.
Closed? Why?
The Pattersons booked it for their son's birthday party.
The whole rink is closed for a kids' birthday?
Yeah, that's right.
Well, that should do it.
There you go, give them a feel.
I think you got these sharper than back home.
So, what do I owe you?
First one's on the house.
Plus, I did make you wait.
Thanks.
Have fun.
Is that a lake?
Excuse me, could you just let me off here?
Thanks.
Perfect.
Yup, yup!
Hey, Lou.
Thanks for covering for me today.
No problem.
I know if you don't get that tree today,
you'll be in trouble with the little miss.
Yeah, you know it.
Stop by later for dinner?
I wouldn't pass up a home-cooked meal.
Great.
- I'll see you tonight. - You got it.
Feels solid.
Thanks again, Phil.
We'll see you later?
Yep.
You have got to be kidding me.
Hey!
- Hey, Claire. - Hi!
Get off the ice!
Why?
Because it's not safe!
It's totally fine!
Oh, no.
It's breaking!
Stay there, stay right there, don't move,
I'm coming to you.
Luke, hurry!
Stay right there, do not move.
- What do I do? - Just stay put.
Look at me, look at me. Just look up at me.
- I'm coming as fast as I can. - Hurry up!
- Take my hands... - Okay.
And don't let go.
Okay.
I got you.
Okay?
Come with me.
Slow. Steady.
Okay. All right.
Now here we go, okay?
Is your foot frozen?
Yeah.
That was a close one.
So, what were you thinking?
The rink was closed.
I mean, who closes an entire rink
for a children's birthday party?
Claire...
did you not read the sign?
What sign?
Of course, because who would look for the danger sign?
Why don't they put it where people can see it?
Because most people up here know where to look for it.
Okay, well, obviously, I've been enough trouble,
so I'm just going to call the clinic.
No, no, let's get you some dry clothes.
My place is nearby.
What a beautiful home.
Come on, let's get you by that fire.
Just take a seat right there.
Okay.
Okay, I'll... I'll just get you some dry clothes.
You, you comfy?
Yeah. Thanks.
Daddy, I'm home!
What are you doing here?
I am just a friend of your dad's.
Hey, sweetie. How was the skating party?
Fun.
We got candy canes in our loot bags.
What is Claire Benson doing here?
How do you know Claire?
Duh, Dad. She's a famous figure skater.
Are you here training?
No, not really.
Then what are you doing?
I am just staying at the rehab clinic.
- Did you hurt yourself? - Yeah, kind of.
- Can you still skate? - Sure.
You know, you're a lot prettier in real life.
Did you bring any skating costumes?
Okay, stop interrogating our guest.
Let's get washed up so we can start decorating, okay?
Can you make hot chocolate?
Of course. It's tradition.
Now, go on.
Sorry about all the questions. Chamonix is eight.
Apparently, that's an inquisitive age.
Here.
I brought you pants and socks.
They're not fancy, but they're dry.
Thanks.
There's a spare room just down the hall.
Can we hang the angel on top?
Isn't she the last one to go up?
Please?
All right.
You ready?
Here we go.
You got it?
Got it.
How does she look?
Beautiful.
Do you want to help?
No, I actually probably...
Ho! Ho! Ho!
Uncle Lou!
How's my little angel?
Look. Claire says she's beautiful.
Well, that it is, Luke.
You found yourself a real looker out there.
The tree, I meant.
Yeah, yeah, Claire, she just needed some help
off the ice on Fraser Lake.
Wait a minute, you were out on the lake?
Claire's a figure skater.
You know, I don't care if she's the sugar plum fairy,
no one goes out on the ice yet.
Didn't you warn her?
There is a sign.
Luke. Come on, man, no one reads the signs.
Exactly.
Chamonix, why don't you and uncle Lou get going on the tree,
and I'll start dinner?
- Claire, will you be joining us? - No, thank you.
- I should get back and train. - Okay, I'll give you a ride back.
Really, I've been more than enough trouble.
I've got to drop an invoice off at the clinic.
It's no trouble.
- Hey, Lou, I'll be right back. - We'll be here.
It was nice to meet you, Chamonix.
Bye, Claire. I hope you get better.
Thanks.
Okay, so, let's try and find
those other tangled balls of lights,
shall we?
It's a shame we missed the sunset.
They're really something up here.
They sure are.
Ms. Benson.
And Luke, always a pleasure
to see our most eligible bachelor this side of the mountain.
It's nice to see you, Patty.
Hey, could you pass along this invoice
for the firewood, please?
Anything for you, handsome.
So... you're a famous figure skater, huh?
And you're a professional hockey player, huh?
I saw the picture at your place.
So, who do you play for?
No, I don't actually play anymore.
No, now I'm just a dad and the local handyman.
Well, I should get back.
- Lou's probably getting hungry. - Right.
Hey, thanks again, and...
I'll make sure I get these back to you.
Don't worry.
I know where to find you.
No, seriously, watching the sun set
behind the snow-capped mountains,
it's one of those things,
if you're lucky enough to see it,
you shouldn't miss it.
Have a good night, Claire.
Good night.
He sure is a cutie.
And such a good father to that little girl.
And, Chamonix's mom?
I heard she left when Chamonix was just four years old.
Why anyone would leave that man and that sweet little thing
is beyond me.
But I guess we all can't see what we're blessed with.
Can I help you
with anything else tonight, Ms. Benson?
Is the gym still open?
I know it's after 4:00, but...
Your room key should unlock it.
Okay.
Well, good night, Patty.
Good night.
- Hey, Mom. - Hey, sweetie-pie.
- What are you doing? - Not much.
- Was that the oven timer? - Yes, it is.
I just pulled out my last batch of Christmas cookies.
- Are you getting any rest? - Not really.
I'm frustrated I can't train properly, and...
I don't know, I'm feeling kind of restless.
Must be all this mountain air.
I thought that mountains
were supposed to have a calming effect.
Well, I'm not so sure that's working.
You know what,
I was going to send you a box of cookies,
but now I'm thinking I might just deliver them myself.
You shouldn't be alone.
It's almost Christmas.
Mom, I'm fine, honestly. Don't worry.
No, I miss you.
I'm going to get these cookies packed up,
and myself packed up,
and get there as quickly as possible.
Now, you just get some sleep.
And save your appetite.
Okay, Mom.
I love you.
I love you, baby.
I can't believe Claire Benson was in our house.
- She's one of my favorite skaters. - Is she really?
I hope she gets better
so she can compete in Nationals in a few weeks.
- Is she a medalist? - Two bronze and one silver.
She hasn't won gold yet, so she has to get better.
Hopefully she takes the time to rest and heal.
Okay, let's get you to bed.
Oh, Ms. Benson!
You're not planning on running today, are you?
Because we got some fresh powder last night.
It'll be in over your ankles.
Well, I can't exactly run in boots.
No, but you can ski.
Hey.
- Claire, are you skiing? - I'm trying to.
Well, I wouldn't suggest going down such a big hill
in cross countries.
Thank you,
I wasn't actually planning on it.
But you can toboggan down it.
I really wasn't planning on tobogganing.
But you have to.
It's the best toboggan hill on the mountain.
I don't know...
Come on, you can come up front with me.
Okay.
Hey, wait up.
Go!
We got her this time!
Yeah!
She still won!
What?
Wasn't that awesome?
You're right,
that's the best toboggan hill ever.
Come on!
Come on, now!
This is so much fun.
Ho, ho...
Is this two against one?
I love you, little monkey!
That wasn't exactly the workout I had planned.
Yeah, but I bet it was more fun.
Julian.
What are you doing here?
Look at you!
I'm making sure
my girl is being properly cared for.
Luke, this is Julian, my coach.
- Nice to meet you, Julian. - Likewise.
Luke was just helping me out with the whole skiing thing.
It's a great way to train in the snow, right?
It's actually a really good workout.
Well, we should get going.
Sweetheart.
- Thanks for everything again. - Yeah, of course.
Pleasure, Julian.
Luke.
Bye, Claire. Thanks for the tobogganing.
You bet.
Anyway, we'd better get going.
I've got a physio appointment in 10.
I'm sorry!
I've only got really large bills!
That hurt?
No, it's fine.
See?
She'll be as good as new in no time.
And then you can say you run an accelerated program.
All right, Conner, get it on that rebound!
I can't believe
the clinic didn't invest in an indoor rink.
I mean, look at this.
It's like a pond.
And there's snow all over the ice.
That's it, David, nice pass, buddy!
Nice approach. Loving the offence, boys!
Maybe we should come back in a little bit.
Excuse me!
Hey! Excuse me! Excuse me!
- Luke, right? - Yeah.
Whoa, easy.
I got it.
About how much longer before the ice is cleared?
Practice will be over in 10 minutes.
Then you're going to bring out the zamboni
and clear the ice?
We don't have a zamboni, we just have shovels.
Wow, Ryan, nice shot! Lovin' it, buddy!
Claire, I'll be right back!
Atta boy!
All right, Sean, let's line it up!
He sure loves coaching those kids.
And they're lucky to have him.
It's not often a kid in Minor hockey
gets a former pro that coaches them.
How long ago did Luke play?
Well, he's been up here for three years,
so four years ago?
But he was the best when he played.
I'd imagine every one of those kids
has his poster on their wall.
Really?
I had no idea.
Yeah, he was MVP three times.
Of course, I understand
if you're not up on your hockey stats.
Hey, atta girl, Chamonix!
Nice!
Hi, Claire.
Did you come to practice, too?
Yeah, sure did.
Hey, Uncle Lou, did you know
Claire won silver at the last National Championships.
What?
I had no idea.
It's okay.
I understand if you're not up to date
on your figure skating stats.
Got me.
Have fun!
I can't find anybody to clear this ice.
Well, that would be me.
But I won't get to it for about an hour.
Come on, you don't expect people
to be able to skate on this, do you?
Lou, maybe you could make an exception
and clear it off a bit earlier today?
For Claire?
Right, yeah, for...
for Claire.
Thanks, Lou.
My pleasure.
No problem.
All right.
Okay, boys, keep it going!
Thanks, buddy.
- Hey. - Hey.
- You all right? - Yeah, of course.
Let me guess.
Achilles?
Yeah.
Yeah, I've torn mine more times than I can count.
May I?
Sure.
So...
how many times have you injured it?
More times than I can count.
You find it's healing up as well?
It's slower than usual,
which is frustrating, 'cause I need it to heal faster.
Yeah.
It's tough, being an athlete
but knowing your body's not keeping up anymore.
I guess that's something we all face.
Just try not to be scared of it,
'cause the other side is not so bad.
Is there a problem, Claire?
No, I was just putting my binding on.
Let me help.
Maybe she should take a break and not overdo it.
Thank you, but after coaching for 10 years,
I'm pretty sure I know what Claire needs.
Let's have a look.
It's okay, I've got it.
Do you think I could learn to skate like Claire?
Sure, why not?
Come on, let's go home.
You have to work through the injury, Claire.
Don't let it hold you back.
Remember, you're strong.
Yeah, but the thing is, I don't feel strong.
Mind over matter.
Claire!
Mom!
Oh, baby.
Julian!
I didn't expect to see you here.
Lovely to see you, Dale.
Julian surprised me.
Couldn't let my girl work through this on her own.
God forbid you leave her alone for too long.
She might actually get a life.
Mom, did you get your room?
I arranged one for you.
I didn't know I could stay here.
It's always quiet just before the holidays,
so we have plenty of rooms.
And you shouldn't miss
the annual Christmas tree decorating tonight.
That sounds lovely.
- Where is that happening? - In the town square.
- Everyone goes. - Really?
- Everyone in town? - Oh, yes.
There's hot chocolate, a bonfire, caroling,
and of course the Christmas tree decorating.
It sounds, perfectly Smallville, but we're going to have to pass.
Well, speak for yourself. I'd love to go.
Claire?
Well, maybe we could go for just a bit?
Fine, but I'm going, too,
and we will return no later than 10:00 sharp, okay?
Ta-ta!
Well, it's been over 30 years since I've a curfew.
I hope we don't get grounded.
Oh, my.
This brings me back to when I was a little girl.
Our town had a tree that everyone decorated as well.
- What about you, Julian? - My town had nothing for me.
I left when I was 10 to live with my aunt,
so I could pursue my skating career.
Well, that must have been hard for you,
being without your family.
Well, like my father said,
"Second is only the first loser", and I didn't want to lose.
One sec.
Hello?
Anna!
Anna, I can barely hear you.
Just hang on one second, all right?
She's trying to get me to coach her, but don't worry.
You're my girl.
Anna?
Claire!
Did you come to decorate?
We did, but we don't have any decorations.
We...
we have plenty.
Hi, Lou. This is my mom.
Hi. It's a pleasure, Mrs...
Benson.
But widowed.
You can call me Dale.
- And you are? - Chamonix.
- Is your dad here? - You bet I am.
Daddy, this is Claire's mom, Dale.
Nice to meet you, Dale.
Glad you could join us.
Well, I couldn't leave my little girl alone
at the holidays.
So, how did you all meet?
Well, Prince Charming here
saved your daughter from falling through the ice.
Well, then, I guess you would be her knight in shining armor.
Mom, why don't we get you some apple cider?
I happen to know exactly where it is.
It would be my pleasure.
Well...
How can I refuse?
Right this way.
Daddy, why is uncle Lou acting goofy?
Here, I've got that new ornament.
Look.
Did you make that?
You hang it on a Christmas tree and make a wish.
I wish Claire gets better
so she can become a World Champion.
Thank you, Chamonix.
So...
I bet you're a pretty good hockey player,
with your dad as your coach.
I'm okay,
but I really want to learn how to be a figure skater.
Really?
I watch all the competitions.
Hey, maybe you can teach me some moves?
I'm sure Claire's too busy for that.
Are you kidding? I'd be happy to.
How about tomorrow?
We could get Dicksons' boy in to cover at the shop.
Thanks, Daddy. Thanks, Claire.
Excuse me!
Could I have everyone's attention, please?
It's that time of the night
when I call upon all the brawn of our men and women
to help prepare for our annual Christmas Eve bonfire.
So, grab an axe, and let's see what you got.
Julian, I know you said you won't be here,
but we could really use your help.
I mean, unless you can't wield an axe.
I can wield an axe.
After you.
All right.
Come on, Claire, let's go.
Well, the man sure has a lot of brawn.
What about yours?
I really don't think Julian should do this.
- I was talking about Luke. - Well, he's not my man.
- And Julian is? - No, of course not.
Well, he sure is acting like a jealous boyfriend.
And you're allowed to have a man in your life, Claire,
other than your coach.
The grumpy man is stuck.
You need a hand?
No, no, no, no, I got this, thank you.
Julian, are you okay?
Yeah, yeah.
Yeah, of course, I'm okay.
Okay, it's time to go.
But you can't,
you'll miss the tree lighting and the caroling.
Some people have more important things
to prepare for, little girl.
Besides, isn't it past your bedtime?
Hey.
You don't get to boss everyone around,
especially not my daughter.
Claire.
I'm sorry, Chamonix, I have to go,
but, I'll meet you tomorrow morning at the rink, okay?
Good night.
You okay? Good.
You don't have to worry about him.
Last time I heard you sing, you were a little girl.
How's Julian?
He's lying down.
He'll be fine.
As long as his ego heals.
How about you, baby?
I've always been able to heal so quickly,
from a fall or a strain.
I mean, you know.
But this time, it's like,
no matter how hard I try, no matter how hard I push,
I just...
I can't get there.
What would happen if you didn't compete?
Baby, I'm not trying to upset you,
I promise, it's just...
Well, at some point,
you're going to have to walk away.
Why not before you hurt yourself badly?
I know, but...
I just...
What?
I don't know what I would do if I couldn't skate.
Do you remember what you wanted to be
when you were four years old?
A veterinarian.
And a fashion designer.
Well, and a firefighter,
and a mom.
Sweetie, there's still plenty for you to do.
You have so much ahead of you.
No matter what Julian says.
Hey...
Hey.
- How are you feeling? - Good as new.
Julian...
I hear we have a new patient.
I'm good, I'm good.
Not so fast, not so fast.
I gotta train.
I'm in the middle of training.
Well, right now, you need to relax
and let me take care of you.
Okay, Julian, I'm going to head to the rink without you,
but feel better, okay?
No, no, no, no...
It's okay, I got this.
Come on, this leg up.
What? This leg up?
This leg. This leg up.
Easy, easy, easy.
Arm over.
I'm frightened.
You're gonna be just fine.
You're in great hands.
You can sit up a little bit.
Over the shoulder.
Over the shoulder? Over the shoulder!
I'm gonna grab your butt now.
Okay, there we go...
Are you sure you want these skates
over your hockey skates?
Yes, I'm sure.
I don't know.
Yes. There she is.
Hi.
Hey.
Claire, look!
Those are nice.
I love the pink laces.
I got them from Santa last year, but I never really used them.
Daddy prefers hockey over figure skating.
Oh, really?
Well, maybe we should get your dad
some pink laces to match.
Okay.
Okay, you two, it's time to hit the ice.
That's so good.
One more.
Nice!
Very good, very good.
Okay, here we go.
Try one leg.
Good!
Very good!
Good job!
You did it! Amazing!
Did you see that, Daddy?
I sure did. You're a natural.
You're dad's right, you are a natural,
but I think we should call it a day.
I know, but trust me,
nothing good comes from pushing too hard, all right?
And I promise we'll come back again.
Let's go.
Daddy, Claire says we can do it again sometime.
So when?
I'm sure we'll figure that out.
Now, why don't you get your boots back on
so you're not late for your sleepover at Maya's, okay?
Thanks, Claire.
You are very welcome.
You're an excellent pupil.
Well, you're a great coach.
Thank you.
I'm sure you probably took time
out of your own training to do this.
Well, Julian's out of commission, so...
Right, how is Julian?
He'll be fine.
So, is he just your...
Coach.
Yeah, he's just my coach.
Right.
Yeah, I was just asking because it seems...
- He's very protective of me. - Of course.
Well, look, if, you don't plan on training today,
I'm going to be hitting the ice and doing some fishing,
if you want to come?
Didn't you warn me to stay off the ice?
Don't worry, it's solid now.
You could just drop by the shop in about an hour,
and I could set you up with a rod.
Well, why not?
My ankle could use the rest,
and I'm sure Julian's in good hands.
Hi.
It's a beautiful day, isn't it?
Julian, you're up.
I am, and feeling like an Olympian again.
That woman is very strong.
How was training?
It was good.
It was really great.
Excellent.
Well, let's have a light snack, and then get back at 'er.
You know, I think I might have overdone it just a wee bit,
so I thought taking the rest of the day off
would be best.
Just so I don't set myself back.
Okay, just a gym session then.
Actually, I was thinking
about experiencing some of the local culture.
Like ice fishing.
Really?
And who would you be experiencing this with?
Luke.
But just because he knows what he's doing.
Local culture, huh?
That actually sounds like a really good idea.
- It... it does? - Yeah, it does.
Excuse me, sunshine.
Get us a shuttle, would you?
I don't know her name.
Okay...
Look who's going to join us fishing.
Well, I'm glad to see
we didn't put you out of commission.
I'll just, I'll get the snowmobiles ready.
You do know how to drive one?
Yeah.
Great.
We'll clearly need to get you suited up
in something different.
I've got a few things for you, too, and I'll grab you a helmet.
I'll be right back.
Something different?
Hi.
Hello!
Luke, my boy. Just in time.
The fish are just starting to bite.
Maybe for you,
but I haven't had a nibble all day.
Stop your bellyaching, old man.
You're just worried 'cause the wife told ya
if you don't come home with fish,
don't come home with anything at all.
Looks like you got the girlfriend with you.
Oh, no, we're not...
All right, okay, here I am!
The snowmobile stalled.
Let's do some fishing!
Here, let me get some bait on there for you.
You know what, I got it.
I can do it.
Okay.
Julian?
Actually...
No, I'll just stick with the lure there.
Now, now, boys, when I first got up to this mountain,
I didn't know much about ice fishing either.
He's got that right.
But we let it slide,
what with him being so great on the ice in other ways.
Really?
How so?
Young man, you are sitting with ice royalty.
Okay, come on, guys.
Luke was one of the best hockey players in his day.
If it wasn't for that dang injury, he'd still be one of the best.
- So you quit? - No, I didn't quit.
I chose not to put my body through any more abuse.
Well, sometimes us athletes,
we need to push ourselves in order to achieve greatness.
I myself won four gold medals, even while my body was tired,
because unlike you, I never gave up.
I think I have a bite!
You've definitely got one there.
All right, just jig the line a little a bit.
Okay.
There you go. Okay, and now a quick tug.
Atta girl, reel 'er in!
That's a nice one.
Is it?
George here wishes he could get one half that big.
Well, you know what, George,
you can bring this one home to your wife.
I've got one, too. I've got one, too.
Okay, let your line out...
I've got this, I've got this.
Okay... all right.
It's a big one, I can feel it.
Take it easy now. You're tugging too hard!
Yeah, here it comes, here it comes!
Fellas, how's the, how's the fishing going?
And make sure I get that hanky back.
I'll take the machine back.
You got it, Phil.
You'll be okay, Julian.
They'll take good care of you at the clinic.
Don't worry, sweetie, he'll be fine.
You just enjoy yourself.
Lou and I will make sure
we get that, lure pulled out of his...
Leg.
And when you get to the clinic, have them page Dr. Schmidt.
Dr. Schmidt?
No, no, no, no. Wait, wait, wait!
Wait! No! Not Dr. Schmidt!
Not Dr. Schmidt!
I'm sorry for what Julian said earlier.
Sometimes, he just can't see past the win.
That's okay.
Have you had a chance
to check out any of the scenery yet?
Are you kidding?
Really? Well, come on, then.
Ready?
It is so beautiful.
Yeah, just wait for it.
You know, the first time
I saw the sun set over these mountains,
I thought, maybe there is more for me
than just hockey.
I mean, I love the game.
But I lost a lot when I quit.
Chamonix's mom, she...
she walked out on us when Chamonix was four.
I couldn't do it anymore,
piecing my body back together, pumping it with cortisone
long enough so I could keep winning.
I knew, eventually, the pieces would fall apart.
Mine are already starting to.
And I know you said not to be scared, but...
I am.
So, what's your story, huh?
Why did you start skating?
My dad.
He worked a lot,
but the one thing he always made time for was skating.
He'd take me to the local rink
and we would just skate for hours,
until our toes were numb.
I loved it.
It made me feel like I was flying.
It was my dad's idea to get me into figure skating,
and I won my first trophy, and that was it, I was hooked.
That's all I've known for 20 years.
23 years.
That's how long I played hockey.
And like you,
I couldn't imagine anything else.
But when I let it go, that's when I realized
everything I'd been missing out on.
Having more days to spend with Chamonix,
watching the sun set...
shoveling my neighbor's driveway.
Or...
just spending time
with someone who makes me smile.
What are the chances I'd get a signal up here?
Yeah, what are the chances?
It's probably Julian.
I should go.
Okay.
It was a really nice day.
Well, I'm pretty sure you made my daughter's day.
And mine.
Maybe I could coach Chamonix again tomorrow?
She would love that.
Okay.
I'll meet you guys at the rink, after 10:00?
Yeah, we'll be there.
Okay.
I'm going to go inside.
Okay. Good night.
Good night.
Hi.
How is he doing?
Happily sleeping, thanks to some pain medication.
And how are you doing?
Taking it easy, I hope?
Actually, I have been resting a bit.
Good.
I'll see you tomorrow for physio.
Okay.
Well...
thank you for a wonderful evening.
Thank you.
Until we meet again.
Good night.
That's right, and one more time.
Good job.
Wait, I almost forgot.
I made you something.
Nice moves out there.
Daddy, do you have it?
Yeah. Yeah, I got it.
There you go.
Thank you, Chamonix.
You can hang it on your Christmas tree
and make a wish.
Unless you're here for Christmas.
Maybe you can hang it on our Christmas tree.
Well, I don't know if...
Should we grab hot chocolates?
Daddy, I have an idea, you should come skating with us?
I think that's a great idea.
Oh, no. No, no, no.
I, I didn't bring my skates, sweetie.
They always have spare ones by the rink.
Please?
How can I say no to that?
Purple laces?
It's all they had.
I guess I should give up my dream
of her becoming a hockey player, huh?
I'd say she'd probably prefer pink skating costumes
over goalie padding.
How about you?
Do you ever play hockey anymore?
Not really.
Why not? You said you loved it.
I guess after a while,
I just stopped thinking about playing.
I guess I was afraid
if I picked a stick back up again,
I'd regret walking away.
Well, I know that when it's my time to walk away,
I'll always skate,
because when you love something that much,
you shouldn't let it go.
All right.
What you got?
All right. Fair enough.
Lovely.
Perhaps just a little unsteady
on the last half rotation, but other than that, not bad.
Claire, I see you've been using your practice time wisely.
I mean, it's not like
you've got a competition to be ready for in two weeks.
I didn't see any harm in...
It's my fault.
She was actually just doing me and Chamonix a favor.
But she does have a real knack for coaching.
Oh, well.
When she goes on to win a championship like me,
then she can coach to her heart's content,
but until then, she's all mine.
And as you're all warmed up,
I guess we should get started, huh?
Before the ice melts?
Actually, Julian,
I'm just going to let my body rest.
Besides, I have that physio appointment
in less than an hour anyway.
Chamonix, I'll see you later, okay?
Bye.
Uncle Lou, guess what?
Daddy was skating with me and Claire.
He was, was he?
Well, I think Daddy might have been showing off for a girl.
Daddy, do you like Claire?
Lou, did... did that ski wax we ordered come in?
She's real pretty, Daddy. And she skates.
You like to skate, right, Daddy?
You know what, Chamonix.
I think our good friend, Lou, here
might have a little bit of a crush on Claire's mom.
- Uncle Lou, is that true? - Yeah, is it?
I'm going to go look for the ski wax.
- Are you going to marry her? - Nope.
- How old is she? - Don't care.
Is she going to come live here?
Thanks, Luke!
The tendons aren't as tight. See?
That's what resting just for a couple of days will do.
Good, good.
We can finally get back to working on your triple axel.
I didn't say she was healed. That will still take time.
We don't have time.
The body is on its own schedule, not yours.
Unless we help it along a little bit.
I wouldn't recommend that.
It's fine, it's okay.
Claire has used cortisone before.
Let's just do it.
Actually, no.
I don't want it.
Not anymore.
Claire...
Claire.
What's going on?
What's wrong with you?
There's nothing wrong with me, Julian.
Really?
Because you're not acting
like the athlete I signed on with.
And I only agreed to coach you
because you have the same drive as me.
I won't let you ruin my record, Claire.
Well, I'm sorry about your record, but this is about me.
Whoa, whoa, whoa. Hey, whoa.
You? This is about you?
I want this, I do,
but I can't keep pushing if my body can't do it.
That's nonsense.
The ability to be able to do it is all up here.
No, Julian, it's here.
And my heart is telling me something different.
Claire...
You promised me you wouldn't give up.
Claire, I was just coming to see
if you could join me for dinner later.
I found this adorable little creperie when Lou took me on a tour.
Thanks, Mom, but I'm not that hungry.
I'll see you later, okay?
Sorry, we're just closing up.
Julian.
- Can I help you with something? - I hope you can.
You see, it appears Claire isn't quite as focused
as she was before she got here,
and I'm guessing it has something to do
with a retired hockey player.
I'm not telling her what to do if that's what you're thinking.
Clearly, that's your job.
Exactly.
It's my job to make sure
she achieves what she's always wanted,
and being a world champion is what she's always wanted.
I mean, maybe you gave up on the dream,
but believe me, Claire will regret it.
She will regret it if she doesn't go for it.
I should know,
I've been training her for the last three years.
I've been there when she's struggled,
when she's been so close she could almost taste it,
and when she's soared because she got it.
And I just don't think that you can say the same
in the few weeks you've known her.
And I'm sure you don't want to be the one
who crushes her dreams,
because if you do, she will never forgive you.
I love to skate, Daddy! I feel like I'm flying!
I know you do,
but, sweetie, your nose is turning blue.
Just a little longer?
Please!
Okay, let's go.
Come on, let's go, Daddy!
Hey.
Could I, bend your ear a bit maybe?
What about?
It's Julian.
He...
he wanted me to get a cortisone shot.
You know, to help me along with this competition,
but I told him I didn't want it, because...
I mean, it's like you said, there are only so many times
I can keep putting the pieces back together again.
So, I have a feeling that after this competition,
that'll be it,
which means that I can go ahead, and...
I don't know,
see what else is out there for me.
Are you sure about that?
I mean, maybe it's...
maybe it's not the right time to quit.
What makes you say that?
I know how this place
can make you feel lost in the moment.
I think it's important you stay focused on your dreams.
Daddy!
Claire, look,
I got a gingerbread kit.
Maybe you can help me do it.
You know, I don't think so, honey,
Claire's got a very important competition to prepare for,
and we shouldn't bother her.
Come on, let's get you home.
It's probably just...
It's a school night.
Right.
Yeah.
Okay, sweetie, only a couple more days of school,
and then Christmas break.
That's your bus.
Have a great day.
I love you.
I love you, too, Dad.
Hey...
Do you want me to charge Phil for the skate sharpening?
Yeah, sure.
How much?
I don't know, 15, 20?
And what about his reel?
Same thing?
All right, what's going on?
What?
You haven't charged Phil for anything
since the day we've opened,
so what's muddling that brain of yours?
Is it Peter Pan boots again?
No.
No, and besides, it's not like
she's ever going to come back here or anything.
Well, not unless you ask her to.
Why would I do that, Lou?
I mean, she's got a career.
And it's just like her coach said,
just because I quit
doesn't mean I should be convincing her
to do the same thing.
What does that scarf-wearing troll know anyway?
He knows Claire a lot more than I do.
Hey, he may have known her longer,
but you know exactly what she's going through.
When you first came to this mountain,
you were a wreck.
I mean, heck, even today, you won't pick up a stick,
or play shinny, or nothin'.
So if she's gonna get to the other side of this,
she's going to need someone like you
who's been through it before.
Besides, if you ask me, you two were meant for each other.
So, what are you doing here?
Come on, I'll close up.
You go tell her how you feel,
so I don't have to pull you out of the doldrums again.
Nah, I don't want to...
Come on, listen to me...
Go, okay? Come on.
Get outta here.
You sure?
Yes, I'm sure.
Okay.
Thanks, Lou.
No problem.
Chop chop, ladies, we've got a plane to catch.
Claire?
Claire, is this what you really want?
Mom, let's just go.
Okay, ladies!
First, Nationals,
and then we're off to the World Championships.
Hey, Patty, could you tell me where to find Claire?
Sorry, Luke, you just missed them.
Ms. Benson and her party already checked out.
- She's gone? - That's right.
Ms. Benson left you something.
"He sprang to his sleigh,
to his team gave a whistle..."
"And away they flew like the down of a thistle."
"But I heard him exclaim ere he drove out of sight.."
"Merry Christmas to all..."
"and to all a good night."
Daddy, will Claire ever come back?
I don't think so, sweetheart,
but we can get you another figure skating coach.
Not like Claire.
Come on, let's get you to bed.
All right, little miss, get some sleep.
Christmas is just a few days away.
Sweet dreams.
Okay, that's it!
Good, turn! Turn!
Let's go again, okay?
Bring it!
Turn, and lift!
That's right, that's my girl!
Okay, let's go again.
- You got a tree. - Of course, it's Christmas.
- How was practice? - It was fine.
Hey, give me a hand.
Do you remember
the Christmas you got your first pair of skates?
Yeah.
They were the ones with the pink laces.
That's right.
Oh, my goodness, your father was so excited.
He couldn't wait to get you out there on the ice
to teach you to skate.
And then, when you came back from the rink,
he was beaming with pride that you caught on so fast.
And you were glowing.
You had so much fun.
And if it ever stopped being fun, I think...
I think that would have broken his heart.
Okay, when you set up for your triple axel,
I want you to bring that energy, okay?
That power we talked about.
This is no time for hesitation. Yeah?
And a wonderful performance by Anna Wolk.
Okay, Claire, this is it.
This is our time.
Okay.
And now on the ice is Claire Benson,
who cinched silver at last years Nationals,
after failing to land her triple axel,
costing her the gold.
That's right, but if she can nail
- that triple axel today... - Come on, Claire, come on!
...maybe she'll finally get that gold
and a spot at the World Championships.
Dad, come quick, Claire's on TV.
Yes!
You can do this, Claire.
She looks pretty, doesn't she?
Yes!
And she's done it!
A perfect triple axel. Incredible!
Yeah!
That's my girl!
We did it, we did it, we did it!
Okay, now we train for Worlds, right?
Actually, Julian, I'm done.
Sure, yeah, of course, we can take a bit of a break.
A couple of days over Christmas.
No, I mean, I'm done competing.
What are you talking about?
You just secured a spot at Worlds.
I know. I'm sorry.
You're sorry?
Claire, this is what you've always wanted.
You can't walk away now. It was what I wanted,
but I told you,
I can't keep putting my body through this,
and as scared as I am to walk away,
I know it's going to be okay.
What... what am I supposed to do now?
I think there's a new skater on the circuit
who could use a coach like you.
Anna, great job out there.
Perhaps more extension, but we can work on that.
That was a cool spin.
Yeah, it was.
Merry Christmas!
Claire, you came back!
I did.
Do you have to leave again?
Well, I don't want to.
What I really want is to be here skating, with you.
I'm sorry, Claire,
I thought I was holding you back.
You have nothing to be sorry for.
You're not holding me back from anything.
Besides, my dreams have changed.
You're just the one that showed me
I have nothing to be afraid of.
I just know how hard you've worked for it,
and how bad you wanted it.
Trust me, this is what I want.
And I have so much more to look forward to.
I hope.
You do.
Got a s'more for me?
Well, I got a s'more, and a whole...
lot more.
Hey, loverboy! You wanna play?
What's happening?
I just invited a few of my old buddies out
for a game of pick-up.
- You're going to play? - Sure, why not?
I love the game, and you're right,
if you love something, you don't ever let it go.
What's this?
I don't know how to play hockey.
Well, it's my turn to teach you.
Okay.
So you hold it with your good hand...
All right.
And when you get the puck, you go back and forth,
and try and get it from them.
Yeah? Just try and steal it from them?
That's whatcha do.
What am I doing wrong here?
RIP-FIXES-SYNC by VaVooM