Dashing through the snow In a one-horse open sleigh
O'er the fields we go
Laughing all the way
Bells on bobtails ring
Making spirits bright
What fun it is to ride and sing
A sleighing song tonight
Oh, jingle bells, jingle bells
Jingle all the way
Oh, what fun it is to ride In a one-horse open sleigh, hey
Jingle bells, jingle bells
Jingle all the way
Oh, what fun it is to ride
In a one-horse open sleigh
A day or two ago
I thought I'd take a ride
And soon Miss Fanny Bright
Was seated by my side
The horse was lean and lank
You know, I've been his manager
for the better part of a decade
and his voice never ceases to amaze me.
It's Maria, right?
Gabe Meyers.
Nice to meet you, Gabe.
I have to say, I have never worked for a man
who actually sang for his supper.
Well, Shawn was saying that you have greater aspirations
- than simply being a personal chef. - I do.
I am saving up to create my own line of food trucks
featuring a mix of world cuisines.
Well, you certainly are very good at it.
Thank you.
Sleigh
Thank you.
Did you talk to Shawn
about getting him to invest in your food truck?
Not yet.
I'm trying to figure out the best approach.
Direct always works in my book.
I know, but I just...
I don't want to come off as opportunistic.
It's not being opportunistic.
It's opportunity knocking.
Now go, answer the door.
I hear you, okay?
Oh, Brook, I... I gotta go, I gotta go.
Sorry to interrupt.
Yeah, I have some news.
First, the good.
Your dinner was the hit of the century.
Oh, good.
And second, I just got confirmation
that Shawn has booked a tour on the East Coast
and he leaves right after the holidays...
and we can't bring you along.
But...
I quit my sous chef job
because I thought this job would become permanent.
Yeah, that's the nature of show business.
But I'm sure somebody as talented as you
will have no problem landing on their feet.
And...
this covers you up until the end of the month.
And Shawn added a little something extra on there for Christmas.
That's very generous.
Actually, he found it very refreshing you didn't try to hit him up
for money to invest in your food truck company.
Merry Christmas, Maria.
Merry Christmas.
Thank you.
Do you know the best part of these work parties?
What?
Leaving.
Where do you like to go when you leave?
Home... to my husband.
Lucky him.
- Merry Christmas. - Merry Christmas.
Oh, to be you.
Hotshot lawyer by day with a girl of the moment by night.
What will it take for a guy like you to settle down?
Settle?
I don't even know what the word means.
Well, your oldest pal wouldn't mind finding out.
And maybe for a change, you be my wingman.
Listen, I'm happy to help you however I can assist, Manny.
But settling down sounds like giving up.
All right, so, tell me.
With your father stepping down as managing partner in the new year
any idea of who he's naming as his replacement?
I wouldn't be canceling my trip to Aspen
to spend the holidays with my family if I didn't think it was gonna be me.
Your brother seems confident he's on your father's shortlist.
Yeah, well, that's just Bennett posturing.
I think my father's wise enough to know that I'm the better lawyer.
You'd think, right?
But knowing for sure is a whole other ballgame.
Yeah.
He's pretty tight with Judge McKinley.
I'm seeing him tomorrow regarding something else.
If you want, I could... casually probe the witness.
Councilman, please proceed.
Cheer up, Maria. You know what they say.
"When one door closes, another one opens."
Yeah? Well, in my case...
it was a car door
if I have any chance of chasing my food truck dreams.
See, that's your problem. You don't chase a dream.
That means it's getting away.
Profound. Thank you, Brooklyn.
But one life coaching class at the Learning Annex
doesn't exactly make you an expert on life.
Maybe not.
But this tunnel vision of yours is definitely killing your fun gene.
No, it's there. It just laid down for a long winter's nap.
Yeah, right.
Whatever happened to the girl voted "Life of the Party," huh?
I miss her.
Oh, wait, that was me. But you're always my plus one.
I know. Come out with me tonight.
Rebecca's having a holiday party with tons of singles.
- Come on... - Okay, okay, fine.
I guess it wouldn't kill me to, you know, take a break.
Great. Because I already RSVP'd for us both.
You had this planned from the start, didn't you?
- Yeah. - See you later.
- Bye. - Bye.
Julian, what are you still doing here?
Rushing to get out.
The last train leaves in 30 minutes.
- Where you headed? - To my meeting with Judge McKinley
to find out what your fate is.
Oh, fate.
Manny, fate is for people without a plan.
My plan...
is to use every billable minute on this train wisely.
Wise would be not showing up late.
Yeah, you're right about that.
That is not the mood I wanna put my dad in.
Don't worry, I'll make it on time. See you.
- Oh, I love it. - Yeah.
But the party doesn't start for hours.
Hours I can spend cashing in on holiday travelers
eager to get home the weekend before Christmas.
Yes. I wish I had your work ethic.
And your ability to pull off pleats.
They always make me look like a human shower curtain.
That is not true.
What time do you wanna head to Rebecca's party?
I don't know. She says ten.
But I don't wanna us to give off a desperate vibe.
Got it. Well, why don't you text me
when you figure out what time sends a confident vibe?
Okay.
Hope you enjoyed your drive with "Driven."
Happy holidays, ladies.
What?
That tip might as well be a lump of coal. Come on!
Maybe one more for the road.
Not that far to go.
- Julian? - Maria?
- Yeah. - Okay, great.
Where do I get in? The back or the front?
Well, you're welcome to sit in the back
but the front has more legroom and heated seats.
- Sold. Great. - Okay. Do you need a hand?
No, thank you.
All right.
Hi.
- Hi. - Well, that was fast.
Yeah.
What, does... the rideshare app enforce a dress code?
- That's funny. - Yeah. You look nice.
Thank you. I am on my way to a Christmas party.
And you are on your way to...
- Briar Ridge. - Briar Ridge, yeah.
Wow, that's, like, a hundred miles outside of Seattle.
Well, I missed my last train because of traffic.
Is that gonna be a problem?
For me, I got dressed for nothing.
And for you, you're gonna get hit with a major surge charge.
Yeah, I'm not worried about a surge charge, but...
if we could get rolling.
Love to. Soon as I can, I will.
Great.
Either way, it's still quicker than the local train, so...
Welcome to help yourself to some waters in the back.
There's candy canes in the glove box.
That's cute.
No, actually, I would really like some peace and quiet
so that I can get some work done during the drive.
Sure.
What do you do?
I'm a corporate attorney.
You like it?
It has its plusses and minuses like anything, I suppose.
How about you?
Do you enjoy driving strangers around?
I do, yeah.
Everybody has a story.
You ask them the right question, they open up.
So, you like to chitchat while you work?
- Yeah. - Yeah. My...
my work doesn't leave me much time to chitchat.
Okay. Sure. No problem.
Do you mind if I at least call my friend
and let her know that I'm probably most likely
not going to show up tonight?
Yeah, I... Text would be much quieter.
All right.
I am... officially off the clock.
Okay. So... what's in Briar Ridge?
I have to go home
to spend the holidays with my family this year.
That sounds fun.
How about you?
My best friend Brooklyn and I
kind of started our own holiday tradition
since neither of us have family to visit.
So, every Christmas Eve, we kind of splurge
and have dinner on top of the Space Needle
and set our intentions for New Year.
Nice.
Friends are the family we get to pick.
Some of us have no choice.
Oh, what's this?
I'm a personal chef, and that is my future.
You wanna own a food truck?
I do.
My dream is to combine traditional food
from all over the world and create plates
that will bring people a little sense of home.
And I wanna bring it to wherever they are
at a price they can afford, so... food truck.
You got me hungry now.
Got over an hour
before my father rings the tardy bell.
I really don't feel like arriving there early.
Okay. What do you want me to do?
Drive around in circles for a couple of hours?
I've got a better idea.
I can't sit you. I don't have a table until ten.
I'm sure if you check with Paliotti, he'll squeeze us in.
Tell him Julian's here, please.
- Okay. - Thank you.
You really don't know what the words "can't" and "don't" mean, do you?
I can and I do. And I'm hungry.
Oh, Julian.
(Italian) Merry Christmas.
Good to see you. Good to see you.
This is Maria. She's a chef as well.
You cook and are a feast for the eyes.
What a combination.
My family's been coming here since I was a kid.
He used to think I was the chef on the pizza box.
That's right. I used to ask him, "Make the face, make the face."
Well, do you even have a name for this world food truck of yours?
I do, actually.
Pita Pan.
What? What does that even mean?
Pita Pan. It's like a... It's just a play on words. It's...
It's terrible, that's what it is. It's terrible.
You... you need something that speaks about what you're doing.
Something that embodies your concept.
You know, something like "Pangea."
That's a word that describes
when all of the continents were together, right?
That's what you're trying to do with your food on one plate.
Bring it all together.
- "Pangea." - "Pangea"?
- Yeah. - Okay.
I will... I will consider that
when my dream finally becomes reality.
You're welcome.
You know, I've kinda noticed you don't exactly seem excited
to get home to your family for the holidays.
You know, my family's tradition
has become about sitting around with pasted smiles on our faces.
Well, if you don't mind me asking, then why are you going?
My father is stepping down as head of our family firm
and he's going to name his successor
at a client's big Christmas Eve gala, so...
mostly, I'm going to remind my father
that I'm a better lawyer than my brother Bennett.
Here I was thinking you were excited to spend the holidays with the folks.
No.
- Sorry, I have to take this. - Sure.
So...
one chef to another, how was the fettuccine?
- My grandmother's recipe. - Delicious.
I have a question.
Your dad thinks you're an incredible lawyer.
But he's not sure you're ready to become managing partner.
What does that mean, not ready?
He feels the position needs to cast a more... mature light.
More mature light? What, like married?
And if you wanted to give the menu a holiday flair
you could do something like
puree-roasted beets with the Alfredo sauce
and then sprinkle with a little goat cheese on top.
And that would make a festive winter alternative kind of vibe.
So, he's going with my brother Bennett?
I cannot confirm or deny.
But it looks like he's leaning that way.
Thanks, Manny.
My brother Bennett, he's been trying to one-up me for years.
And now he's trying to play the whole married with kids angle
to win over my father.
Are you sure that's why he's picking him over you?
I'm twice the lawyer that he is. Twice the lawyer.
But for my parents, it's... it's all about image.
Always has been.
They wanted me to get married right after I graduated law school.
Perfect timing.
"Hey, it's Mom. We're headed to the airport.
Me, your father, and Bennett, to pick up Daphne."
Yeah, all right.
"See you soon.
And by the way...
I've got a big surprise for you all this Christmas."
What... what does that mean?
It means that I'm quitting the firm, and I'm taking my clients with me.
New Year, new me.
Just because this turned into a holiday downer for me
doesn't mean that I'm gonna pass my loss on to you, so...
Ho, ho, ho, there you go.
A little something extra for your Christmas stocking.
Thank you. I'll get your stuff.
Hey, I... I can...
I can get it.
I got it.
Hey, Julian, again...
I know this is none of my business, but whenever I get upset
I wait at least a day before making a decision.
You're right, Maria. It's not your business.
I appreciate the concern, but you don't know my family.
Fine. All I'm saying is maybe take a little bit of time and...
and let fate be your guide.
You really are one of those people that just...
always tries to find the best in others.
That must be so disappointing.
- Merry Christmas. - Merry Christmas.
Seriously, Julian?
Hello.
Julian?
You left your phone in my car.
Julian?
He left the door open. Julian?
Must be his rental car. He's probably just getting settled.
Still, no reason to leave the door open.
- Anyone care for an aperitif? - Hello.
Hi.
- Who are you? - I'm Maria.
Oh, she must be Julian's surprise.
Hi, I'm Helena Diaz. This is my husband Charles.
An absolute pleasure.
- And this is our son... - Bennett.
Yes, I see my brother's told you about me.
I hope some of it good.
Bennett, be a dear and get some eggnog for our guest.
Daphne, this is Maria, Julian's girlfriend.
- Actually... - What? I had no idea.
Totally makes sense, though.
The only way that Julian would ever get involved with somebody
is seriously on the down low.
Oh, where are our manners?
Please, let's go into the living room and sit down.
If I could just find Julian and... and give him his phone.
Oh, he can wait for his phone while we get acquainted.
Come on.
So, Maria...
please tell us about yourself.
Sure. Okay, I... I just...
First, there's... there's been a tiny misunderstanding here.
Ah, where have you been?
And why have you been hiding your charming girlfriend?
I beg your pardon?
We were just about to get to know your little surprise.
What has Maria told you?
Not much, other than her first name.
Yes, but she seems delightful. I'm dying to know more.
How long have you two been seeing one another?
- Not long. - What?
But it's not about the length, rather about the quality of the time.
Right? Maria showed up right when I needed her and...
and since then, we've been practically inseparable.
- Really? - I... I wouldn't say that.
Julian, when you said you had a surprise
I had no idea that it would be this.
It's kind of like Maria was telling me tonight
after dinner at Paliotti's.
Sometimes, in life, you just have to let fate be your guide.
You took her to dinner at Paliotti's?
Wow, must be pretty serious.
Well, Maria's a budding entrepreneur.
She's a personal chef with a dream of having a line of food trucks.
- You mean like a roach coach? - Really, Bennett?
Why do you have to always try to belittle everything?
Why so sensitive, Jules? I didn't mean to offend anyone.
Well, then stop interrupting
and allow Maria to continue telling us
about her Pangea food truck.
Pita Pan. It's Pita Pan.
And, actually
food trucks are a great way for chefs to share their passion
without the sky-high rents and huge overhead.
I think that's rather industrious. Good for you.
Thank you. Food's always been a passion of mine.
And now a second passion of my own.
How sweet.
- Julian, can I... - Oh, I'm so sorry.
You know, Maria's a little peaked from the long drive
and I told her I would get her an aspirin.
Why don't you come with me?
Anything to steal a kiss.
All right. What is going on down there?
Your family thinks that I'm your big surprise
and you are going along with the lie.
I haven't lied.
They asked how long we've been seeing each other.
Not long. That's true.
Have we been inseparable? The last few hours, yes.
I'm letting fate be my guide.
Wow, you are such a lawyer.
Look, my family seems to be in love with you for some reason.
And now you're blaming this on me?
The only thing that I am guilty of
is coming back here to return your phone.
Don't you see that's fate?
You could be the key to me clinching managing partner
and I won't have to quit.
- I'm not gonna lie. - I'm not asking you to.
I'm just saying, go along with their assumption
through the Christmas holiday.
You scratch my dream, I'll scratch yours.
How about I make a sizeable investment in Pangea?
Pita Pan.
And you can't be serious.
Oh, I am. Name your price.
- But this is crazy. - Says who?
Trade in your dreary holiday plans
and come spend Christmas week with the Diaz family.
Besides, I... I can't let you go now.
It's snowing.
That... that would be reckless and irresponsible
and a slap in the face to what is quite obviously fate.
Okay, just knock it off, Julian, all right?
This isn't like trying to get a table at your favorite restaurant
so stop trying to fast-talk me.
I will stay one night, and I will think about it.
And we will see how I feel about it... tomorrow.
Great.
Luckily, I had some dirty gym sweats in my bag.
And unluckily, all I had were dirty gym sweats in my bag.
Great. Another situation we can quickly remedy in the morning.
Slow your roll, counselor, okay? I only agreed to spend the night.
Right. Yeah.
So... good night.
Yeah. Good night.
What am I gonna tell my parents
about us sleeping in separate bedrooms?
Tell them I'm old-fashioned, and...
That's great. That's... They're gonna like you even more.
Make yourself at home.
Make myself at home?
No, I'm not angry, Maria. I'm just disappointed.
Not so much with you, but... but the turnout at Rebecca's party.
It was eight singles, all right? Eight. All women.
Well, I'm still really sorry I wasn't there with you.
Brooklyn, you would not believe the night that I am having.
So, it turns out that the last ride I picked up
is this bigshot attorney
who wants me to stay at his family's place in Briar Ridge
and pretend to be his girlfriend to help him land a job promotion.
And in exchange, he will invest in my food truck.
What? What?
Wow, look at who hit the holiday Powerball.
Brooklyn.
Where exactly does your moral compass land?
I'm... I'm like having a crisis of conscience here.
Come on, he's asking you to play a part
not drive the getaway car.
Maybe.
But I just keep hearing my mom's voice in my head
reminding me about the importance of honesty.
Honesty is reserved for nuns and suckers.
So, Sister Maria, does this hotshot have a name?
Julian Diaz.
Oh, I could definitely play Juliet to that Romeo for a few days.
Yeah, well, looks can be deceiving. He's kind of a jerk.
He has that whole, like, lawyer thing working for him.
Right, and you've got that whole starving dreamer thing
not so working for you.
I don't know, Brooklyn. I just... I don't know about this.
Oh, come on.
For once, quit living your life in the slow lane
and finally take a chance.
It's Christmas And the magic is in the air
- You certainly were up early. - And a lot more chipper than usual.
Yeah, well, I've got a big day planned
and not a moment to waste.
Picked out some goodies for everyone.
- Enjoy. - Oh, how thoughtful.
Hey, what's in the bags?
Just an outfit and some things I got for Maria.
Oh, yeah. I noticed that she packs light.
Unlike your wife, yes.
By the way, where are Cindy and the kids?
They're spending Christmas Eve with her mom in Seattle
but they'll be here for Christmas Day.
Wonderful. I can't wait to see kids.
Come in.
Good morning, sunshine.
Okay, just take it easy. I'm not exactly a morning person.
- I didn't sleep at all last night. - Finally.
- Crisis of conscience? - Actually...
I was having some serious concerns about our little charade.
I might have been naive in thinking two perfect strangers
could pull off something of this magnitude.
Well, it's nice to see your common sense
is making a comeback.
Oh, no... I have a proposal.
In order to make this thing work
we need to create a history that's rooted in truth.
Otherwise, the whole thing will unravel.
The devil's in the details.
Why do I get the feeling the devil before me
has figured out the details?
You already know me so well.
Chop-chop.
- Good morning, Maria. - Good morning.
I trust a good night's sleep has you feeling more like yourself.
Definitely a step in the right direction.
Good. Would you like a coffee?
- Oh, I would love... - We will get coffee on our way.
We're headed for a cross-country skiing adventure
at Fiddler Park.
Fiddler Park? That's like a five-mile trek.
Ten, roundtrip. Does anyone want to tag along?
Okay, I guess it's just you and me then.
See ya.
But... cross-country skiing?
Julian. Okay, just stop.
I... First of all, I really need coffee, okay?
Secondly, are we really going cross-country skiing?
If I said it, it's true-ish.
Here we go.
Look, Maria, you're just going to have to trust me on this one.
I am confident
that I figured out a way to pull this whole thing off.
But I already explained to you that I'm not... I'm not gonna lie.
And you won't have to.
Anyone ask you about our whirlwind romance
you'll mean every word of it.
How?
Get ready for the biggest power date of your life.
Okay so, if I do go along with this, what's next?
Trading in our skis for snowshoes, and we are on to our first date.
Thanks.
I don't think that counted as cross-country skiing.
All we did was stand in the snow for a quick selfie.
Yeah, in our skis, okay?
Look, I didn't become a very successful lawyer
without mastering how to maneuver
within the oh-so-narrow lines of the truth.
- I noticed. - Yeah.
Look, we've got a lot to accomplish in one day.
We've got to complete our entire dating narrative.
Oh, our dating narrative?
Yeah, like our history? Like how we met.
I picked you up at the train station, remember?
That could be troublesome.
Okay, why don't we just say we met by chance?
I mean, that's true.
Have you ever been on one of those horrible coffee first dates?
- Aren't they all? - Perfect.
So now you have a frame of reference.
Anybody asks, you just say we met by chance
and let me color in the rest.
Let's put the crayons down, counselor
and stick to reality, shall we?
- So, this is our first date? - As a matter of fact, yes.
Me being an avid outdoorsman
I invited you out for a little snowshoeing adventure.
- I don't snowshoe. - You resisted.
But I coaxed you out by promising not to let you fall.
And I believed you?
You're here.
Shall we?
Go ahead, just walk.
Yeah, just walk.
Yeah, there you go.
I guess this is where I told you I first discovered your superpower.
- Your power of persuasion. - That's true.
I do know how to get what I want when I put my mind to it.
- I'm catching on. - Quickly, I might add.
- Well... - Look at you.
So, first dates are all about discovery.
Tell me about your last boyfriend.
We need to go back to the archives with that one.
Two years ago.
Heartbreaker or heartbroken?
Neither.
It was one of those relationships you stay in past the expiration date.
I guess I knew it wasn't true love
when I saw he didn't share my passion for life.
I can see that.
You're definitely an all-in or nothing at all type of gal.
Very perceptive, counselor. I am.
Anyway, one day, I woke up and realized
we were just better friends than soulmates.
Soulmates?
You really believe in that sort of thing?
I do.
And in a voice dripping with sarcasm, I assume you don't.
You ever been in love?
Smitten but never bitten.
Oh, come on.
A good-looking, successful lawyer like you?
You think I'm good-looking, huh?
I got you. See? I told you.
Kept my promise I would not let you fall.
Now... on to our next date.
Yeah.
What's the name of that divy little Greek place
near Pike's Market?
- Aphrodite's Grill? - Yeah.
The one that you wanted me to take you to
because you kept raving about the cuisine?
- I did, and... - Thank you.
What did you think of the food?
Well...
I thought it was full-of-awful.
Falafel.
And I don't wanna come back-lava.
That's when I knew I won you over.
You made me laugh. Genuinely.
A quality every woman looks for in a man.
Okay.
My turn.
What?
But first...
do... do this.
- Great. Yeah. - Okay.
Look, see, there's the French restaurant
that you took me to after we went dancing.
Yes, yes.
I remember the place.
This is where the L word was first uttered.
Like, I...
Wow, thankfully, I know the Heimlich
because you seem to be choking on those words even playing pretend.
So, seeing that you would never be the first one to utter those words
I confronted you.
I said, "Julian...
I know that I don't know where this is heading.
I don't.
But I can't seem to get you off my mind.
Julian...
I love you."
Good job.
Thank you.
Well, now it's true that I said it
so let's just hope your parents never ask if I mean it.
Okay, I see now you're doing the lawyering thing.
- This is good. Pretty good. - Yeah?
- Yeah. - All right.
We've got another memory locked for life.
Shall we create some more?
Why not?
So, don't take this the right way, but today was almost fun.
More like exhausting.
Forgot how much work goes into building a relationship.
Yeah.
So, you wanna recap our greatest hits?
Okay.
You hate the nickname "Jules"
ever since your brother started calling you that when you were kids.
Your idea of heaven is warm apple pie
vanilla ice cream, and cheddar cheese.
Thank you.
And the quality you despise most in people is... insecurity.
That's true.
You are an only child
but you consider Brooklyn your ride or die, your sister.
And your love of cooking came from all the time you spent
in the kitchen with your mom and dad.
And the word that you hate most in the entire English language is...
"ointment."
Come on, it sounds gross. Why not "medicated lotion"?
You know?
Do you really think we can pull this off?
I think there's only one way to find out.
I need to make an appointment
for dinner with my family at a fancy restaurant.
Actually, I have a better idea.
Here we go.
Maria, this smells positively divine.
Okay.
And what heavenly feast do you have in store for us tonight?
All right.
We have slow-braised Persian lamb shanks
silky-smooth whipped potatoes with a hint of Irish whiskey
and Moroccan-spiced baby carrots.
Actually, first
before we get started, if you wouldn't mind
would everyone kindly put your phones on silent
and place them into this breadbasket?
What?
Jules, what are we, in the fifth grade?
Hey, I think what Maria is trying to get at...
I've... I've got it, Julian. Thank you.
The way we did it in my home growing up
dinner was no distractions, no interruptions.
Nothing to keep us from enjoying what was right in front of us.
Food and each other.
So...
what do you say?
Boom. Mic drop.
It's a small sacrifice I think we all can make
considering your hard work in the kitchen.
Thank you.
There you go.
Thank you.
Okay, on that note, enjoy your meal.
- Buen provecho. - Buen provecho.
Buen provecho.
So, how did you two meet?
It was a mission of mercy, actually.
Maria was on one of those horrible coffee dates
and I was waiting for my latte watching this poor guy flounder
and I felt it my moral duty to put the date out of its misery
and save them both.
That's Julian's version of events.
So, tell the truth.
First time that you met my brother, he seem a tad full of himself?
No, actually, I wouldn't say that.
The first thing I can recall
is thinking that his smile was a bit disarming.
That was all I needed.
Oh, I'm sorry. I thought I put it on silent.
Oh, it's Bill.
Bill Pendergast, he's our dad's oldest client.
- He owns the Pendergast tool empire. - Which also makes him the richest.
(Spanish) Please.
If it's important, you should get it.
No... no. I'm gonna call him back
right after I finish this beautiful meal.
Maria, Julian must have told you all about Uncle Bill, right?
I mean, he's like part of the family.
Pendergast Hardware.
He's the host of the Christmas Eve gala
for children in need.
Right.
I'm really looking forward to meeting him.
Yes, after his wife Gretchen passed
Helena has been helping him plan the event.
Oh, speaking of which.
Maria, given your culinary expertise
how would you feel about helping me coordinate for the gala center?
Sure. I... I would be honored.
I'll cheer for that.
- (Spanish) To your health. - Cheers. Salud.
Salud.
Thank you so much for this wonderful dinner.
Oh, it's my pleasure.
And I hope I didn't overstep any bounds.
My mom and dad always felt dinnertime was... sacred.
No. It's wise.
Your parents live in Seattle?
Actually, my mom passed away when I was in high school
and my dad when I was a junior in college.
I'm sorry.
You poor dear.
Oh, no. It's okay. Thanks.
Everything all right, Dad?
Well, Bill just discovered
that shareholders are trying to push through a hostile takeover
during the Christmas holiday.
We could lose Pendergast Tools and Hardware.
Home Etcetera has been looking
to buy Uncle Bill's company for years.
He's always been unwilling to sell.
Unless we can figure out a legal maneuver
this could force his hand.
He wants us to meet tomorrow morning to discuss a plan of attack.
And, Julian, I'd like you to be there.
Of course.
But, Dad, I'm Bill's point person.
He's a client of the firm. We all work for him.
Besides, with the recent change of events
I could use a fresh perspective.
Well, that'll give us girls the whole day to hang out.
Yeah.
Did you see Bennett's face when my father invited me
to meet with Pendergast?
This is a huge step in the right direction.
- This means that my plan is working. - Okay, yeah.
Did your plan involve me being left alone with your sister?
You need to come with me, because what if I say the wrong thing
- and screw it up? - Hey, hey, relax.
Okay? You got two and a half more days to realize your dream.
Just keep being yourself. You'll be fine.
No, I will be fine when this whole charade is just over.
We've presented almost a perfect case, counselor.
Look at this as our closing argument.
Yeah, well, if that's the case, how about you take it to chambers?
- Chambers? - Yeah.
- I'm a fan of legal dramas. - Yeah.
And after the day we had today, I am just ready to collapse.
By the way, stellar work today. Yeah.
And if you were any better, I'd kiss you good night.
Fat chance, Julian. I'm off the clock.
All I'm saying, Bill, is maybe it's time you considered selling.
And let them destroy everything the Pendergast name stands for?
Forget it.
In that case, our only option is to litigate.
The State of Washington has very strong anti-trust laws.
Further aggression will only serve to antagonize both sides.
I'm suggesting a cooling-off period.
Okay? But... So we can weigh out our options.
Look, Uncle Bill, if we file suit now
we can hang this up in court for years
which will send a very clear message to the stockholders
you're not backing down.
Let's shove it up their Christmas stockings
- and see what happens. - Yeah.
Well, then we'll go with Bennett's plan of attack.
We're having such a nice time. We should have invited your mom.
No, this is much more fun.
I mean, don't get me... don't get me wrong, okay?
I love my mother to bits
but, as far as mothers go, she can be a little tightly wound.
I like her hair, but if I came home with hair looking like that
her pearls would pop.
My mom used to say, "if you're comfortable with yourself
the people who love you, really love you, will be too."
I'm not so sure about that.
In my senior year in high school, I came home...
and I told my parents, "I'm gay."
And?
"Well, if you're happy, we're happy, dear."
That was the last thing that they said.
And it's like if you don't talk about it
then it just disappears.
Or...
maybe they're waiting for you to talk more about it.
You know, I mean, communication's a two-way street.
In our house, it's more like a dead end.
Can you keep a secret?
- Apparently. - I put in an application
to work with Doctors Without Borders.
So, you wanna go into medicine?
Honestly, I don't know.
I just know that it is not law school in the fall.
After seeing how miserable my brother Bennett is
I just... want none of it.
And my parents don't know this, but he and his wife separated.
- I'm so sorry. - Yeah, I know.
But please, keep it between us.
He hasn't even told Julian yet.
I remember you from yesterday.
Has your boyfriend finally mustered up
the courage to say "I love you" yet?
Not yet, but... but he's getting there.
Do you want a cocoa?
Two cocoas, please.
- You got it. - Thanks.
Okay.
Spill the tea.
- Okay. - What happened with you two?
So, Julian and I had a slightly embarrassing moment
here yesterday after I said, "I love you."
Oh, that must have left him like a deer in headlights.
Why? Why would you say that?
You're the first girl he's fallen for since law school.
After Sarah broke his heart, I thought he'd never recover.
Are you okay?
You haven't said two words since you got home.
Is that so? There, that makes five.
I get the sense we're about to have our first fake argument.
Oh, it's a real one.
You know, I thought we agreed to be honest with each other
during our pretend relationship.
Yeah. So?
You lied to me.
During our power date, I asked you if you'd ever been in love
and you said no.
Little sisters never fail.
This is not about Daphne. This is about you.
Apparently, you had your heart broken.
So, why lie about it?
Because I come from a family
where if you don't talk about it, it never happened.
Yeah, that seems to be a problem around here.
Give me your right hand.
- That's a dictionary. - Right hand up. Do it.
Great. Right here.
I want the whole truth, nothing but the truth
so help you, Webster.
- So help me, Webster. - Great.
What happened?
Sarah Cook.
We met our first year of law school, and I thought she had it all.
Brains, beauty, X-ray vision through my bravado.
Like you, she couldn't stand me at first
but I wore her down, and we fell in love.
I fell in love.
After we passed the bar, I took the next logical step.
I took her to Paliotti's to celebrate and I proposed.
Did she turn you down?
She said yes.
It was getting her to say "I do" that was the problem.
And when we're planning the wedding, tensions started to rise
and so I thought a small justice of the peace ceremony
with just the best man and the maid of honor
would make her happy.
But only three out of the four of us showed up.
Well, I'm sorry.
Probably did us both a favor.
It never would have lasted.
Yeah, but that's not the point.
You believed in happily ever after.
Yeah, maybe.
A long, long time ago.
You know, you're a lot more likable when you show a little vulnerability.
Not that many people can get me to do that.
Well, then I guess we found my superpower.
For what it's worth, I'm...
I'm sorry for not being more upfront with you.
And voilà.
The granddaddy of all Christmas tree cookies.
So decadent and yet so simple.
- Is this your own design? - My mom's.
That must be where you get your passion for food from.
Yeah, my best memories were always in the kitchen with my parents.
My dad chopping, my mom stirring.
Me just watching their rhythm, watching their dance.
They always poured all their love into whatever dish they were making.
- Sounds wonderful. - Yeah.
Those were the best times.
Oh, Mom, you gotta squeeze gently like this.
- Got hands full of thumbs. - Now there you go.
Okay.
So, what are some of your family Christmas traditions?
All I can think of is putting up the Christmas tree
and Christmas Eve dinner.
And your father and I taking you kids to see "The Nutcracker."
- I've never seen it. - What?
Oh, Maria, it's so romantic.
Yeah, Mom's right. It's pretty awesome.
"Romantic, awesome." You talking about me again?
Julian, can you believe Maria's never seen "The Nutcracker"?
Lucky her.
You really do put the "hopeless" in "hopeless romantic."
Well, after that nutcracker of a comment
I'm gonna ask if Maria is done with her baking tutorial
because I'd like my better half for the rest of the afternoon.
Yeah, I think we can handle it.
- Great. - Okay. Have fun.
I'm sorry, Daphne.
For what?
I really wish we did more things like this when you were growing up.
Maybe you and I would be closer.
Well, it's never too late.
You and Dad say you want me to be happy, right?
Of course, that's what any parent wants for their child.
Even if my idea of happy
is something that you and Dad could never understand?
After starting off as a tool supply company
my father took a gamble and created Pendergast Hardware.
He built this building
and I spent every hour I wasn't in school here
making this the best hardware store in the state.
I... I worked here, too, for a little while.
How could I forget?
I wasn't so good at driving the pallet jack.
No, but you got real good at drywall repairs.
- And I taught you that. - You did.
You taught me a lot, Uncle Bill.
Mostly about generosity.
Every Christmas, the hardware store would give away trees
to families that couldn't afford to buy one.
- That's very sweet. - Yeah.
Kind of how the Christmas Eve gala got started.
Uncle Bill always looking for a way to help those with less.
My wife Gretchen, she would look forward all year long
to this occasion.
You know, my only regret is we didn't have children of our own.
Guess I poured my life into this place, so...
And looks like my work is never done.
Excuse me.
That's Uncle Bill.
You think you can use your superpower
to help me find a way to get him to settle?
I mean...
look around, Julian.
Maybe all you see is a hardware store...
but what he sees is his legacy.
Hey, fake girlfriend.
How are things shaking with you and your handsome counselor?
The road has been bumpy
but, somehow, we both managed to slip into a nice groove.
- Well, that is good to hear. - Yeah.
And like any family, they have their issues
but for some reason, they instantly warmed to me.
Nice.
Although, you do remember this is just a part, right?
Come Christmas, Cinderella comes home with a food truck
and lives happily ever single.
I know, Brooklyn. I know.
It just... feels good to be part of a family again for the holidays
even if it is just for make-believe.
Well, if you weren't always so busy working
maybe you would find a special someone of your own.
Okay, so, what do you think of the new look?
Jealous.
I'm still paying off my old look.
Come in.
I gotta go. I love you.
Bye.
- Hey. - Hey.
I hope I'm not interrupting anything.
Oh, no, not at all.
- I was just chatting with Brooklyn. - Brooklyn.
Okay, about that, actually.
It doesn't seem right that I'm stealing you away
from your bestie for the holiday.
So, what do you think about inviting Brooklyn to join us
at the Christmas Eve gala?
Really? You would do that?
We could even dial her in with a proper ball gown.
So, what's your angle?
What, I can't do something nice without having an ulterior motive?
Our entire arrangement is an ulterior motive.
So?
Fine.
There's some small part of me that was hoping that my gesture
might really cement the fact to my parents
that you and I are serious.
The fact, counselor?
The idea that you and I are serious.
Thank you, Julian.
Really?
I thought you were gonna be mad.
I get it. I told the truth.
- So, you're happy. - Exactly.
And who knows, you know?
Maybe if we're lucky, it could turn into a habit.
Okay. That easily? Maybe.
Stranger things have happened.
Maria, Daphne told me how you encouraged her to talk to me.
I'm assuming it went well.
I can't remember the last time
we both were so honest with each other.
I'm just so grateful you were there to help guide her.
Anyway, I just wanted to repay your kind gesture with...
one of my own.
Tickets to see "The Nutcracker" tomorrow.
That's so thoughtful.
Maybe for you.
What did I do to deserve an evening of torture by Tchaikovsky?
Well, who said I was gonna give you the extra ticket?
For your sake, you better hope it's for me
because you're not gonna be able to give it away.
So, how do you like dating a lawyer?
It has its challenges. Like try winning an argument.
No, but actually, I guess one of the hardest parts
is trying to get Julian to lower his guard.
I'm never really quite sure what's going on behind his eyes.
As with me, this pretty much tells the whole story.
I have zero poker face. But with Julian, not so much.
I'm trying to get better at that.
And Maria is really helping me.
- Yeah. Work in progress. - Aren't we all?
So, you challenge one another.
That's... that's important in a relationship.
Signorina.
You took my suggestions.
Fettuccine a la Maria.
He named it after me.
- Thank you. - Merry Christmas
It seems Paliotti is up to his old tricks again.
Nothing in this world is quite as delightful as new love.
To new love and to everlasting love.
- Chin-chin? - Chin-chin.
Chin-chin. Salud.
- Salud. - Salud.
- Cheers. - Cheers.
No, Cindy, the plan was
you're gonna bring the kids to my parents' for Christmas!
Well, you know what's on the line for me here.
Look, I have to call you back.
How are things with the Christmas Eve gala?
Yeah, Maria helped us nail down a menu
and she came up with a signature cocktail for the event.
You really are a jack of all trades, aren't you?
Well, you cook, plan food truck empires
and you drive for a ride share app.
Oh, that. Yeah, just in between chef gigs.
Right.
Maria, I was hoping you would join me in town for a bit.
- Sure. What's up? - I'll tell you on the way.
Okay. Let's take my car.
You drive.
That's Cindy, right?
She refuses to drive down with the kids for Christmas.
It's time you talked to Mom and Dad, tell them what's going on.
And give them a matching set of heart attacks?
No, thank you. I... I can figure this out on my own.
Just talk to them.
Maria pushed me to, and it was the best thing I ever did.
- Thank you. - Thanks.
No, thank you.
I can't imagine you wanted to meet me for chestnuts
and to listen to carolers, so, what's up?
Well, I was hoping to get you in the Christmas spirit
as I presented a compromise.
I figured you had an angle.
And Maria's here to help soften me up, right?
No. I am just here for moral support.
Deep down, Julian knows what this fight for you is really about.
It's about the Pendergast name.
It's about quality tools made in America for almost a century.
Now, I spoke to the lead counsel today at Home Etcetera
and I told him they would be fools to squander that brand.
- And what did they say? - They agreed.
And then they proceeded to remind me of their endless resources
to battle us in court.
So, I proposed a compromise.
If you agree to let the sale go through
then the Pendergast name will live on in perpetuity with the tool line.
That's it?
No.
You can also maintain the founding hardware store
right here in Briar Ridge with your name on it.
And you get to keep doing what you love to do right here.
It's a good deal, Uncle Bill.
Don't confuse your pride with what you want the most.
If they don't have your answer by midnight Christmas Eve
then the deal's off, and they'll let the courts decide.
Then I've got a lot to think about.
Quite frankly, Daphne, I am a little speechless.
I thought it was your dream to become an attorney
and carry on the family legacy.
I think maybe it was your dream. My heart's just not in it.
Well, maybe not now, but give it two years, and...
And then what?
Be stuck in a job I find unfulfilling?
At least you would have a degree.
Instead of flitting around the world on some search-and-rescue mission
trying to figure out what you're gonna do in life.
That's what you think this is, Dad? Me running away?
This is me running toward a life that I want
even if I don't know what that is yet.
It's just me, Dad.
You know, I can take a case to the Supreme Court.
You'd think I'd be able to wrap a present properly.
Bennett, you're not here to try to sniff out
who I'm going to name as successor at tomorrow's gala, are you?
Actually, Dad, I was hoping we could talk.
Well, I'm sorry you weren't a big fan of the production.
It was magical.
The way Clara broke the curse and saved the prince
and they... they fell in love.
Go ahead, make fun.
No, no. I think it's sweet. I really do.
And a part of me was dreading going to this thing tonight
but seeing the ballet through your eyes...
pretty special.
Do you know the meaning behind the Nutcracker doll?
No.
In the German tradition
it's supposed to be a symbol of good luck.
Then, hopefully, tonight will be a good omen
for the news you've been waiting for.
Hopefully.
Maria...
I don't think I would've gotten through this holiday without you.
Well, I can't say it hasn't been fun.
Yeah, I can't say it hasn't been fun either.
Sorry. It's...
- You okay? - It's good. Yeah.
Let's go.
- Well, I guess we better go home. - Yeah.
Maria.
Pita Pan.
Sweet dreams, Maria.
Merry Christmas, Briar Ridge. Brooklyn's in the house.
Hello, Brooklyn. Good to see you again.
Oh, right.
Well, thank you for the invite.
Maria, special delivery!
- It's so good to see you. - It's so good to be seen.
This foyer is bigger than our entire apartment.
Your folks wouldn't be interested
in renting out the hall closet, would they?
You'll have to forgive Brooklyn. She was born with no filters.
So, you know I'm being real when I say thank you
for the gorgeous gown you had delivered.
- Oh, I'm glad you like it. - I love it!
Now I need a Prince Charming to go with it.
Oh, Daphne. This is Daphne, Julian's sister.
- This is Brooklyn. - Welcome.
Thank you.
Julian, Mom and Dad are calling a family meeting in the kitchen.
All right. Let us see what that's about.
Yeah, go. I will help get Brooklyn settled.
What?
- (I know.) - Are you kidding me?
Apparently, this family likes to keep secrets.
We wanted to talk to you all together about an unsettling revelation
that we need to share.
Last night, Bennett told your father
that he and Cindy have been separated for six months.
Bennett...
I'm sorry.
I assume this is the first you've heard of it, as well.
And then there is Daphne's desire not to want to go to law school.
- What? Really? - Good for you.
Your father and I want you to be able to come to us with anything.
When did that change?
We're here to support you no matter what.
That's what family does for one another.
As long as it falls within the very narrow margins
that you and Mom have set out for us.
- No more secrets. - Please.
I'm just glad Maria came along. So we can all stop playing pretend.
Right? Pretty good, huh?
So pretty.
Okay, you seem off for some reason.
Is there trouble in fake paradise?
I don't know, Brooklyn. I think
maybe I've been playing pretend for so long
that the lines have blurred.
Oh, please don't tell me you're falling for the guy.
I thought you said he was a jerk.
He was... at first.
But I think underneath all that bluster
there's a really good guy.
Okay, so last night, after the ballet, we almost kissed
and it was not for show.
You almost kissed?
Maria, that is the exact same thing as "didn't kiss."
Unless you wanted him to kiss you.
I...
Oh, my God.
You are for real in love with your make-believe boyfriend.
Stop.
What if I was? You know?
What would I do?
You have no choice. You have to tell him how you feel.
- No. - Yes.
- No. No, Brooklyn. - Yes. Yes.
No, that was not the plan. This is my fault.
An "almost kiss" can go both ways.
For all you know, he may feel the same.
What if he doesn't?
Well, I would rather live with the pain of knowing
than spend the rest of my life wondering
what might have happened if he did.
I just got off the phone with Pendergast.
Julian, who gave you the authority to call opposing counsel?
You did what?
I saw a way to do this that I knew neither of you would approve.
It's a way to find the middle ground.
You had no right to go behind my back.
You just couldn't resist another chance to one-up me.
That's not what this was about, Bennett.
Are you sure?
Seems like you two have made a career out of trying to one-up each other.
Not this time, Pop. This wasn't about me winning.
This was about me trying to do the right thing.
Yeah, but this could explode in our faces.
Yeah, well, I felt it was worth the risk.
I gave Uncle Bill a chance to save his legacy.
And lucky for you, Bill took it.
- What? - He did?
How did you get him to soften?
I mean, it's rare for even a good lawyer to settle a case
where everyone walks away happy.
But this... this was great lawyering.
Thanks, Pop.
Do me a favor though, okay?
Next time... let's work as a team. No more going rogue.
Understood.
You can't wait too long to talk to Julian, you know?
The statute of limitations for an almost kiss is 24 hours.
Come in.
Maria.
Talk to him.
- Hey. - How's it going?
Good. Just...
- getting ready. - Okay.
Actually, Julian, I was hoping that we could talk.
Yeah, sure, but I have some great news first.
- Uncle Bill took the deal. - Oh, my God.
Yes, yes.
I'm so happy for you and for Uncle Bill.
Thanks. I...
I don't think I would have been able to convince him without your help.
You see how nice it feels
to use that superpower of yours for good?
Yeah.
Great. Your turn.
Okay.
Last night, when...
when we were outside of the theater...
Hey, Maria.
Do you think I can pull off a smokey eye?
Daphne.
I'll show you.
You were saying about last night?
Just thank you for last night.
Just thank you.
Sure. Yeah.
I'll see you in a little bit.
Okay. I'm just gonna finish just getting ready.
Can I give you a hand with that?
I got it. Thanks.
I know you're angry with me, Bennett
but I never meant to step on your toes
with the Pendergast case.
If that's your attempt at an apology, save it.
I really am sorry, Bennett.
Growing up with Dad's high expectations just...
made us feel like we were only ever each other's competition.
Made it hard to see each other as anything else.
I regret that.
And I'm really sorry about Cindy.
Yeah, well, it is what it is.
Why don't we push the past aside and move forward?
And do what? Be friends?
Why don't we start with being brothers?
Yeah, I guess.
Little brother still can't tie a tie.
This is so exciting.
There's even a limo outside.
I feel like we're all going to Christmas prom.
Well, then shall we?
Maria's not done yet.
Sorry.
I'm here.
Sorry to keep you waiting.
Your mom was nice enough to lend me a necklace.
Thank you, Helena.
I am... not used to getting dressed up like this.
Do I look okay?
Breathtaking.
Thank you.
Here comes my favorite family.
- Merry Christmas, Maria. - Merry Christmas, Bill.
Thanks for coming.
And look at my beautiful goddaughter.
Tell me, Daphne, how goes the law school search?
Actually, Daphne has just shared with us
that she wants to explore some other compelling options for now.
Helena and I are very excited for her.
Really?
Yes, if this is what you truly want, we don't wanna stand in the way.
Daphne decided to take a year off to join Doctors Without Borders.
Oh, really?
Thanks.
You really are the best.
Wow, there are so many people here, and I don't know a single soul.
Accent on single.
You know what?
I think I can help with that.
Manny, come here for a second.
Excuse me.
Manny, I'd like you to meet someone special.
This is Brooklyn.
Brooklyn, like the... city.
Yes, although I think you'll find I am a lot friendlier.
Can I get you a champagne?
I thought you'd never ask.
- I'm impressed. - Yeah, well...
So, are you going to make matchmaking your side hustle?
Let's see how this goes first.
True.
You're nervous.
Actually, I am.
Everything boils down to tonight.
And the only thing I know for sure...
is that none of this would be possible
if it wasn't for you.
That's what I wanted to talk to you about.
Yeah, I figured. I had this ready.
Go on, open it.
I left it blank so that you could put in the price of the food truck
and cover your startup costs.
I just wanna help make your dream come true, too.
I can't accept this, Julian.
Of course, you can.
Maria... I trust you.
I guess this is it.
Nearly 30 years ago, my dear friend Bill
taught me about putting personal needs aside
for the greater good by starting the Pendergast Foundation.
Our firm has been a proud sponsor for over two decades now
and, as some of you may know
in January, I'll be stepping down from my duties at the firm
so that my wife and I can dedicate our lives
to more meaningful pursuits like this one.
Christmas is a time for counting our blessings.
Something that we don't do often enough.
And this Christmas
a very special person came into our lives
who made us understand what a blessing family is.
I am extremely proud of both my sons and my daughter
in ways I cannot even begin to express.
And while I'm going to miss my daily duties at the firm
I couldn't be more thrilled and confident to announce
that I will be handing the reins of the firm over to my son...
Julian Diaz.
I hope you told Julian how you feel
before getting paid for services rendered.
I couldn't.
So, what happens at midnight?
All this vanishes and you go back to being a rideshare driver?
Something about this didn't seem right
but I honestly never would have suspected
that either of you could stoop so low.
I have to admit, you were good.
Well, I don't feel very good.
What are you talking about?
Maria is Julian's girlfriend for hire.
This whole thing has been an act.
What? No, that's not true.
Tell her the truth, Maria.
I'm so sorry.
I never meant to hurt any of you.
You...
Just please give this back to him.
Brooklyn, can we please go?
Anybody seen Maria?
I'm sorry, Julian.
What's going on?
It appears Julian and Maria's relationship
was just for show.
What? That can't be.
Julian, is this true?
When I heard of your intent to name Bennett managing partner
my big surprise was gonna be me resigning from the firm.
After seeing how taken you were
with the thought that Maria was my girlfriend...
A little lie, it just completely spun out of control.
All this because of a promotion?
Julian.
So, none of it was real?
I don't know anymore, okay? I...
I'm gonna make it up to each of you, I promise.
Right now, I have to find Maria.
- Merry Christmas. - Merry Christmas.
Nice to see your broken heart hasn't affected your appetite.
Yeah, well, you know cooking settles my nerves.
I felt so guilty about what I did, I couldn't sleep last night.
- How could I be such a fool? - You are not a fool.
You are a big, kindhearted soul who got hurt.
Yeah, well, this big, kindhearted soul
is done with all this nonsense.
Come on, Maria.
You can't let one bad experience sour you on romance.
I know.
And if I'm being really honest with myself
you were right in pushing me to take chances.
Say that again.
Safe choices lead to an unfulfilled life.
No, I mean, the part about me being right.
I really don't know if happily ever after does exist.
But I... I do know one thing.
I will never find it... if I stop looking.
I like the sound of that.
I...
What are you gonna do?
- Hi, Manny. - Oh, hey.
Manny? What...
You left so quickly last night, I didn't get your number.
Julian gave me a lift.
Yeah, sorry about that.
My ride-or-die needed a ride.
Hey.
They say nutcrackers are... supposed to bring good luck.
I figured I'd take all the help I could get.
What are you doing here?
Bringing you what's yours.
I tried calling.
You wouldn't pick up, so I had no choice.
I don't want it.
It's yours.
Then, Julian, I don't know what...
You can sell it, I guess, or do whatever you want
- but I can't accept it. - Why not?
Because it's built on a lie, and I don't want that.
I don't want that either.
After you left, I apologized to my entire family.
I came clean.
Really?
Really.
How did that go?
It's a work in progress.
I bet.
So far, I got Bennett to agree to share
managing partner duties with me.
That's generous of you.
No, it's just... it's the right thing to do.
Yeah.
I also need to take back an apology that I gave you.
When did you apologize?
I apologized for lying about having never been in love.
It turns out that I was telling the truth.
I thought it was love.
But the truth is that I have never felt about anyone
the way that I do for you.
What are you... what are you saying?
I'm in love with you, Maria.
And I only hope you feel...
The same?
- Yeah. - Yeah.
Well, I guess that if... we're a for-real thing now
then maybe we ought to have our first real date, right?
Probably.
How about tonight? Christmas dinner?
I feel like I can probably make that work.
Good.
'Cause we were all hoping you'd say that.
"We"?
We.
- Merry Christmas! - Merry Christmas!
Merry Christmas!
I don't know what you're doing to me, Maria, but...
thank you.
Oh, this is just the beginning.
Merry Christmas!