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(upbeat holiday music)
- Now, Prim, if I told you what I was baking,
it wouldn't be a surprise now, would it?
Okay, well, don't worry.
There'll be plenty waiting for you at the hotel.
Yes.
Okay, well,
enjoy the morning with your father.
Oh! Okay, well, tell him that I say hi, too.
Love you!
(upbeat holiday music)
- Good morning, Faith.
Ooh!
Look who decided to roll in just in time.
- Uh, my shift doesn't start for 15 minutes.
Just enough time to drop these in the breakroom.
- Ooh, don't tempt me
with your butter and icing sugar wizardry.
You know what I'm talking about, Neve,
the Royal Prince of Genova, James Winter,
will be arriving any minute now.
- You mean, the red carpet's not for me?
Don't they know I baked cookies?
- Oh, come on, admit it, you're excited.
How could you not be?
A royal prince staying at the Plaza
is the most exciting thing to happen since...
Well, ever.
- One more guest just means one more room to clean.
What's so special about him anyway?
- Um, he's handsome, he's a philanthropist,
and most importantly, he is single.
- Seriously? - What?!
You and Noah have been divorced for five years
and you've still yet to go on your first date.
- Okay, the prince has no interest
in fraternizing with the help, trust me.
Plus, he's single for a reason. You've seen the headlines.
He's nothing but a spoiled rich kid.
- Ugh. - I wouldn't be surprised
if the charity tour is just an excuse
to go on another lavish vacation.
(laughing): Oh.
(laughing) Uh-oh, here comes Christophe.
(Faith clears throat) - Good luck.
(Faith chuckles nervously)
- I swear, I've been working here for two years
and it's like I don't even exist.
- It's our job to be invisible.
I kinda like it. - Oh, of course you do.
- Speaking of standing out, I heard
that Christophe is doing interviews
for his new concierge position.
You're gonna apply, right? - I'll consider it,
right after he learns my name. Baby steps.
- Suit yourself. Oh, before I forget,
here are your tickets to the pageant.
- Thank you. How are sales coming along?
- Oh, they could be better.
It'd be nice to have a full house,
you know, not just for the theater,
but for Prim, too. - Oh, our little leading lady.
- Exactly.
The owner of the playhouse, Wade,
said if we don't start selling seats,
he might have to cut back the theater programs,
which includes my acting class.
He's not gonna be back until the pageant
so I wanna show him what we're capable of.
- Hmm. And here, I thought
you and I could sit back and enjoy
the most wonderful time of year, for once.
- And where's the fun in that? (Faith laughs)
- Yes, I understand
but the prince was supposed to be dropped off an hour ago.
Do you have any idea what--
You stopped for pizza.
- Yeah, the sign said the best pizza in New York.
You want some? - Look, I hate to be that guy,
but you're late for your own welcome reception.
Not to mention, you've ruined your appetite.
- Oh, loosen up, Peter.
I just wanted to get a real taste of Manhattan.
That's why we're here, right,
so I can connect with the community?
- A charity tour is about the community, yes,
but that doesn't mean
you can keep your guests waiting.
They came all this way to volunteer with you on tour.
It doesn't look good.
- Ah, yes.
Another week spent surrounded by snobby socialites,
philanthropists, and benefactors.
My father has a way of attracting quite the crowd.
- Look, this is a huge step for both of us.
Your father has entrusted us to do this on our own.
Let's not have a repeat of the Fiji incident.
- I like to immerse myself in the culture when I travel.
What's so wrong with that? - By laying on the beach?
- In between meetings, yes.
- Being royal is about more than just showing up, James.
It's about optics. You're here for work.
This is your chance to prove to your father and the world
that you can handle the responsibilities
of being royal.
- All right. Fine.
I'll be on my best behavior. I... promise.
- Knock, knock. - Hello!
- Ooh! Don't mind if I do.
- You're the chocolate thief?
- Well, I'd hate for it to go to waste.
The woman booked into this suite
is stranded in Hawaii.
Something about like, a volcanic eruption?
- What? - Yeah,
and unfortunately for me,
half of her luggage still arrived
and she certainly does not travel lightly.
(Neve chuckles)
(Faith gasps)
- What are you... (Faith): Whoa!
Check this out! - Wow.
Now, that is a dress.
Could you imagine rolling up somewhere in that?
- Why imagine? - No. No, no,
I can't try on her dress. It's against the rules!
- You wanna know what I think is against the rules?
- Not really, no. - Refusing to have any fun
during what is supposed to be the funnest time of the year.
- Are you sure there's no way
you can make it back from your work trip
in time for the pageant, Dad?
- You know I'll try my best.
Just promise me you won't give your mom and Auntie Faith
too much trouble while I'm away, okay?
- I'm gonna pretend I didn't hear that.
(chuckling)
Hi. Thank you.
- I've got a lot of things planned for us this week.
We've got the toy drive,
volunteering at the soup kitchen,
and several public appearances.
- Oh, that's it?
- Yes, well, that and a press conference.
And then, we wrap it all up with the Christmas Eve ball.
- What, a press conference? No, I-I don't think so.
How is that supposed to help with my reputation?
You and I both know the media twists everything
to serve their own motives.
(elevator dings)
Oh, hello there.
- Hi. Uh... you're, uh...
- I'm James. - Right, James.
I'm Prim.
- Nice to meet you, Prim.
Is that a script? - This? Oh yeah.
I'm, uh... I'm gonna be in a Christmas pageant.
Actually, I'm the lead.
It's my first time being the lead, I mean.
- Now, that sounds like fun.
Why can't we do something fun like that
on the charity tour.
- Your schedule is already quite full, sir.
(sighs)
- When's the show?
- It's this Friday at the Vagabond Playhouse.
If you wanna come.
- We'll try our best.
Thank you for the invitation, Prim.
- You're welcome.
- Friday is quite booked up.
- Well, we'll see about that, won't we?
The Locomotive and the Snowman.
I wonder how that ends up?
- I'm sure it's the new Hamlet.
- Mom! Mom! - We're in here, honey!
How was your week at your father's?
- Good. You'll never believe
who I just ran into in the elevator.
The Prince! - What?
No! - Yes!
- Okay, enough fan-girling, you two.
Can I get some help here, please?
- What are you two doing back there?
(Faith): It's a surprise!
- Uh-oh.
Where in the world did I put my--
(knocking) Oh, James.
- Hello, again.
You...
dropped your script near the lift.
I thought you might be needing it,
seeing as you are the star of the show.
- Prim, is there someone at the...
...door.
Oh my.
Mr. Winter,
w-welcome to the Royal Plaza.
- Thank you. - I swear,
getting into this thing is like a spiritual journey.
(soft music)
- Oh... hello.
- Hi.
- You must be...
- Uh...
- A... thena.
Mr. Winter, please meet
one of Manhattan's most astute philanthropists,
Miss Athena Collins.
(chuckles)
- Please, call me James.
It's a pleasure to meet you, Miss Collins.
- Likewise.
- This is Peter, my chief of staff.
- You must be here for the reception.
- Y-yes, the... the reception. - Yeah.
She was just on her way out the door.
Um... I will grab your bag, Madame.
- Thank you. Thank you.
- Looks like I'm not the only one behind schedule.
- Will anyone else be joining you, Miss Collins?
- Uh... no.
I suppose it's just me.
(curious music)
- Right. Well,
seeing as we're both headed in the same direction,
allow me?
(squeals excitedly)
Yes, well,
the charity tour happened quite naturally, really.
Visiting Manhattan is a royal tradition,
and I thought,
"What better way to give back to the community?"
- Right, I'm sure you did.
- Yes. Although, I will say
that staying at the Royal Plaza was my father's idea.
So, if the services aren't quite up to par
with what you're used to, you know who to blame.
- I beg your pardon? - The rooms,
the amenities, the food.
I'm sure your tastes are much more refined
than any hotel could possibly achieve.
- Well, actually, Mr. Winter, the Royal Plaza is known
for its world-class cuisine and customer service.
In fact, the hotel is cherished in the community
and the staff here is second to none.
- Oh. Who would have thought?
I appreciate the insight.
- Anything to help.
After all, we wouldn't want people to think
your charity tour is disingenuous.
- Right, because it's most certainly not.
- Exactly. Just like you're not just a spoiled rich kid.
I'm sure you're...
(indistinct chatter)
...much more than that.
- I can't believe this.
My mom and the prince. She's basically Cinderella.
- Oh, and it looks like midnight just came early.
If Christophe spots her, we are so--
- Busted! (gasping)
Sorry, I couldn't help myself. (Faith chuckles)
- Right, you got us.
Is there something I can help you with?
- Oh, no, I was just doing my rounds, you know.
Making sure there's no one sneaking around.
- Hmm. Well, we will definitely keep an eye out for you.
- I was just giving Athena's daughter here,
a quick tour of our facilities.
- I see. Well, I won't keep you, then.
- I appreciate it.
Right this way, miss.
- Miss Collins.
- Oh, you've gotta be kidding me.
- James! - Oh, dear. Victoria.
Um... Hmm...
Ah, mm, hmm. - Oh. Aren't your tastes
a little too refined for this food?
- Shh, I'm trying to blend in. Please, just play along.
- Well, you try blending in standing next to a prince.
- Hmm.
(rhythmic holiday music)
(clattering)
- I'm just gonna excuse myself for a moment.
(sighs)
There he is.
- Oh, Victoria.
What are you doing here?
I thought you were spending Christmas in Italy?
- Well, I was going to, but you know your father.
He can be quite persuasive.
I'm sorry, I don't believe we've met.
- Ah! - There he is!
- Oh, glad you could make it, cousin.
- It's good to see you again, Marshall.
- Oh, right. Uh, sorry.
Uh, Victoria, Marshall, this is Miss Athena Collins.
Athena, this is Victoria and my cousin, Marshall.
Victoria's family runs
one of New England's largest charitable organizations.
They're here to volunteer on my charity tour,
alongside you and the others.
- So, how do you and James know each other?
- Oh, we just... met. - Don't... really.
Yeah. - Ah, let me guess,
King Geoffrey used his power of persuasion on you too?
- Oh, he sure did, yeah.
You know King Geoffrey, he can be quite the...
character.
- Yeah, I suppose you could say that.
- If I may, sir? - Oh, right.
Looks like things are about to get started.
- Oh, perfect timing, I'm parched.
- Oh, right. Thank you.
- Thanks.
- Who says chivalry's dead?
- It's time for you to give a toast.
Inspire them with your passion. - I think I'll pass.
In case you've forgotten,
I don't really do public speaking.
- Yeah, well, you do now.
- Peter?
(tapping loudly)
- Well...
Now that I have your attention, thank you,
I'd like to propose a toast.
(clicks tongue)
I know that many of you live very busy lives
full of... full of responsibility,
which is why...
I'd like to say a few words from the heart.
Merry Christmas. Yes.
And I look forward to seeing you all tomorrow at the toy drive.
Thanks so much for coming. Cheers.
- Smooth.
- Likewise.
(sighing)
(bright holiday music)
(laughing) - Okay, wait,
that was you guys? - Of course it was!
The Christmas ornaments were actually Prim's idea.
- I learned from the best. - Genius.
- What are you doing to my daughter?
- We had no choice. Christophe spotting you
would have ruined all of the fun.
- What? There was nothing fun about the torture
you two just put me through.
I can't believe I'm gonna say this,
but I kinda feel bad for James.
I mean, being paraded around
in front of all those socialites,
it can't be a fun time for anyone.
I definitely prefer the simple life.
- Okay, so the two of you didn't exactly hit it off.
But what about Athena?
Surely she and James have something in common.
- Athena doesn't exist. - She does now.
- Don't even think about it, Faith!
- What? Athena can't just vanish.
The prince has eyes everywhere.
They're sure to come looking for you.
- I'm not gonna spend my entire week
volunteering with James and his snobby friends.
- Well, you don't have to. Just,
you go to the charity event tomorrow after work
and then, you tell James that something came up,
like an unexpected emergency.
- What about Prim? - Oh, I'll hang out here.
Chef Aaron is always looking for extra hands in the kitchen.
- Mmm! Mm-hmm!
- You two have this all planned out.
Okay, fine. Fine, fine, fine.
But after tomorrow,
I'm putting Athena to rest, once and for all.
(elegant music)
Victoria and her family are highly influential.
- Yes, and highly bothersome.
She's always butting herself into everyone's business.
- A partnership with her foundation
would dramatically increase our charitable reach.
And you would know that
if you were taking this charity tour seriously.
- I am taking it seriously. - By rolling in late yesterday?
I'm not saying
you have to be best friends with everyone I invited,
but you need to set your ego aside and--
- And learn to be a leader. - Exactly!
It's time to show the world that you're ready to be king,
someday.
Which is why I'd like you
to escort Victoria to dinner
this Friday. - Dinner?
Father,
I thought that I'd have the evening to,
you know,
do some exploring around the town or--
- This isn't a vacation, James.
Unless you have something more important
scheduled this Friday,
I trust you'll be in attendance.
- If you insist.
- That's my boy.
Now, good luck with the toy drive today, son.
- Have a good evening, Father.
(sighs)
- "Something more important."
(sweeping orchestral music)
- Get in and get out.
Easy-peasy.
(sighs)
(camera shutter snaps)
(indistinct chatter)
- Late again, I see.
- I have a very busy schedule.
- Right, and handing out gifts to the less fortunate
is low on your priority list.
- Don't worry, your secret's safe with me.
Us spoiled, rich kids need to stick together.
- Nice try, but no. Unlike you,
I actually had to work to get to where I am.
Speaking of work, I have something to tell you.
- Suit up.
- Very funny.
Where's the Santa that we hired? - Stuck in traffic.
Now, we can't keep the children waiting.
I just need to find some poor soul to be your wife.
- Don't we have people for this?
- I'm afraid our options are limited.
- I can do it.
For the kids.
Anything for the kids!
(deep voice): Ho, ho, ho.
(camera shutter snaps)
- Santa says more than "Ho, ho, ho!" You know?
- I'm a prince, not an actor.
- Yeah, well, you're scaring the kids.
So try and relax. - All right.
- We heard you made the nice list
six years in a row. I think that's a new record,
don't you, Santa? - Um...
Yes, I-I'd say so. Jolly good.
Ho, ho, ho. (Neve sighs)
- Better?
- Don't quit your day job.
- Look, I know that you don't seem bothered,
but not everyone is comfortable up on stage like this.
In case you haven't noticed,
public speaking isn't exactly my forte.
- Listen, the trick is not to overthink it.
The thing about acting is that
you just wanna connect with your audience.
- Who made you an expert?
- I teach an acting class in my spare time.
- Really? Perfect. Where do I sign up?
- Sorry, Santa, it's for the kids.
- Hmm. Oh, hello.
Upsie-daisy. - There you go.
Um... - Ho, ho, ho.
- I have some bad news.
I actually have to drop out of the charity tour.
Yeah, the director of my daughter's Christmas pageant
had to pull out last minute so I'm stepping in.
- You mean the pageant at the Vagabond?
- How did you know that?
- Your daughter invited me. I'm looking forward to it.
- You're coming to the pageant? - Of course!
That's why I'm here, to support the community.
You know,
I've always wanted to try my hand
at behind-the-scenes work.
What if I were to help you with the pageant?
Then you wouldn't have to pull out of the charity tour.
- Oh, no.
No, that-that won't be necessary.
- Of course, it is!
You're clearly a natural at all this.
So, who better to help me connect with the community
than you?
Hello.
(camera shutter snaps)
Ho, ho, ho!
I did it again.
- Hmm. - Look, you know,
I know that you think
that I'm just some spoiled prince
looking to coast through the next week
by doing the bare minimum, but...
I'm really much more than that.
- I didn't say you were spoiled...
exactly.
- Well, it's a done deal. I'm helping you
and I won't take no for an answer.
Ho, ho, ho, who's next?
(soft music)
(gasps) - Whoa, whoa, whoa!
Okay, wait, wait, wait, wait, he what?
Slow down.
- Not only is he coming to the pageant,
but now he wants to volunteer. This is bad.
This is... this is so, so bad. - Okay.
So we just have to readjust our plan a bit.
- A bit? Do you hear what I'm saying?
He wants to volunteer at the playhouse!
- Okay, he's just trying to be nice.
- No, no, he is trying to prove me wrong
because I said that he was spoiled.
How am I supposed to disappear now?
- Ooh, wait, maybe you don't have to.
Yeah, yeah, yeah, just hear me out for a bit.
You have to sell out the pageant, right?
- Yeah.
- Well then, what better way to do that
than with a bit of help from a prince?
- You want me to use James to save the acting program?
- Think of it as a like, PR stunt.
You help him with the charity tour,
he helps you with the pageant.
Nothing sells tickets like a royal prince.
- Okay.
But what if someone accidentally blows my cover
at the playhouse? I could lose everything.
- Well, technically, Miss Collins is your real name.
That's what they'll be calling you
at the playhouse anyway.
Plus, all the charity tour events
are in the afternoon, after your shift.
- You're right! What could possibly go wrong?
- Ah, just give it a chance!
At the very least,
you spend the next week mingling with future donors.
As far as I'm concerned, this is a no-brainer.
- Fine.
(elegant music)
(coughs) - You what?
- I've offered to volunteer at the local playhouse.
Their annual Christmas pageant is this Friday
and I thought they could use the extra help.
- This Friday.
What about your dinner with Victoria?
- Community first, right?
(sighs) What?
You wanted me to show more initiative.
- Adding more to your already busy itinerary
was not what I had in mind.
You need to stay focused on the task at hand.
- I can handle it. Trust me.
Plus, you know I've always been interested in the theater.
- Just like your mother.
Fine, this is your charity tour.
Just don't make me regret this, okay?
The world is watching.
- How could I possibly forget?
(sighs)
- What do you mean, she doesn't exist?
Athena Collins, A-T-H-E-N-A.
She's not in her room
and I need to get a hold of her about today's event.
- Not on my watch.
- May I speak with your manager, please?
- Can I help you, sir? - Oh, it's you again.
- Hi. Yes, it's me.
I couldn't help but overhear
you were trying to get a hold of Athena?
- I-I'm sorry, aren't you just a bellhop?
- And what's that supposed to mean?
- It's just I-I've never met a bellhop who was so...
involved. - I take my job very seriously.
- All right, then.
- Let me see what I can do for you, sir.
- It's Peter. - Mm-hmm.
- Hmm.
(clapping)
- Bravo! Bravo!
(laughs)
I am so impressed
with all your work on your characters
for this week's pageant.
Now, remember, let's go spread the news.
Grandmas, grandpas, the mailman, the plumber.
I wanna see this place packed for the show.
Get going.
(phone ringing)
Uh-oh.
Hello? Neve speaking.
- Good afternoon, Miss Collins,
this is Faith Ferrara calling from the Royal Plaza Hotel.
- Faith, what's going on? Is everything okay?
- Yes! I was just calling to pass along a message.
It turns out your limo will be arriving at three
to take you to today's charity event.
- It's 2:30. - You'll make it work?
Wonderful. - Okay, just...
have an Athena outfit waiting for me
in the executive suite. I'm on my way.
(laughing): Your favorite bellhop?
Oh, miss, you flatter me.
Hmm, okay.
- Very good. - Hmm.
(breathes deeply)
- You could be a good baker, James.
Come on, James, you could...
- Oh, please not James.
Please not James. Please.
Oh... of course.
(fire alarm blaring)
- No, no, no! Oh, oh.
(laughing): Oh...
Well, I knew you needed help, but this,
this is another level. - Oh, Athena.
You're actually on time for once.
- Yeah, I could smell your burnt cookies
from the hotel. - What cookies?
- Oh, these ones? I mean,
they don't actually look like cookies,
they look more like hockey pucks but..
- Okay, so I messed up a batch.
It's why I came early,
you know, to brush up on my baking skills.
- You know it's okay if you don't know how to bake.
I'm sure you have lots of people to do that for you, right?
- Maybe, but that doesn't mean I'm thrilled about it.
It gets old having people do everything for you.
- Really?
Then why am I the only one working right now?
- Okay. - Look,
first rule of baking, just keep your station clean.
- So, now,
you're a cleaning expert as well.
- Uh, just pass me the baking soda, please.
- What, that? There you go.
- The baking soda, not the baking powder.
- Well, there's a difference?
- Oh, dear.
(light festive music)
- There we go. You know what?
I think I'm actually getting the hang of this.
- You know that the icing's supposed
to go in the bag, right? - I know.
It's just that, the more that misses,
hmm, the more for me.
- Oh, I suppose you're right.
Someone needs to taste test the product.
- Right?
Maybe baking isn't so bad after all.
See, I knew I was missing out on something.
(laughs)
- "Missing out." - Hmm.
- You're a prince. You're not supposed to miss out.
- Well, tell that to my father.
I miss out on all sorts of things,
baking, decorating the Christmas tree,
building a fire, shoveling the drive.
I never seem to have time to do
any of the normal Christmas activities.
- Some people call those chores.
- Yes, well,
I'd give up diplomatic responsibilities
for chores any day.
You know what they say.
Sometimes, it's the...
simple things that make life special.
Anyway, enough about me. Let's, uh...
Let's talk about you, Miss Athena Collins.
- Me? - Yes.
Tell me, why are you really here,
on the charity tour, I mean?
- Oh, um...
Well, you know, I, uh...
I'm sure it's the...
same reason as everyone else, probably.
Just... originally from Manhattan
and wanna give back to the community.
Yeah. - Right.
- Hmm. - Hey, just be honest.
I've been in this business long enough
to know that everyone has their own motives.
- Well...
I guess I'm also here for my daughter, Prim.
Thought it would be a good chance
to have her experience Christmas in my hometown.
Plus,
being in the Vagabond Playhouse Christmas pageant
is sort of a tradition in my family.
Me, my mother, my grandmother.
- I'm assuming your family will be at the pageant, then.
- Oh, no. They'll watch online.
They traded in their snow boots for flip flops a long time ago.
- You know, theater was a large part
of my upbringing, as well.
My family and I always used to attend
the local Christmas pageant.
- "Used to?"
- Well...
Things... Things were different then.
You know how it is.
Life gets away from you.
I guess that's why I always loved the theater so much.
No matter how busy we were,
it always brought the family together again.
Which reminds me,
what do you say we meet at the playhouse tomorrow night?
Time's ticking.
I'm sure you could use the assistance
in getting ready for the pageant.
- Right. About that. You know what?
Um, look, if you're busy,
I understand. So, it's--
- No, no, no.
Peter already cleared my schedule.
I'm free as a bird.
- Great.
- Yeah, great.
- Great.
(bright holiday music)
- It's okay, Lady Lollipop,
I'm sure we can come up with a solution.
Maybe you dropped it in the gingerbread lane?
Or in the gumdrop gully?
- There it is. - Yes!
- Sounds like someone's been practicing?
- Dad called me yesterday between meetings to work on it.
- Aw. I told you he'd find the time.
- Mom,
do you think we're actually gonna sell out the pageant?
- Well, we're still a long ways off, but...
I know we can do it.
Why? - I just...
I wanna make sure there's a seat for Dad
in the audience.
- Oh, Prim.
There's always gonna be a seat for your father.
But you know, even if he doesn't make it back in time,
he's still cheering you on.
No matter where we are in the world,
your father and I always have your back.
Speaking of, I was thinking
you might need a little pick-me-up
after all your hard work, so...
why don't I have Chef Aaron make
your favorite reindeer pancakes with extra whip?
Go get your stuff before I'm late for work.
(sighs)
- Everything's been going wonderfully.
Especially since I've perfected my baking skills.
You know, the difference
between baking soda and baking powder
is really quite profound.
Father?
Are you still there?
- Cookies, yes.
It all sounds very exciting, son.
I'm glad you're having fun.
- Oh, thanks.
Things have been going surprisingly well,
if I do say so myself.
- There's always room for improvement, though.
- I knew that was coming.
- The press have started to talk again.
- About what?
I've been doing everything you asked me to do.
Everything. Lay low, stay out of trouble.
- Too low.
You know how they are.
You need to take control
before these rumors get out of hand.
- And how am I supposed to do that?
I've been attending every event. Isn't that enough?
- Well, being more active online could be a start.
(sighs)
Being in the public eye is part of your job.
You can't avoid the inevitable, son.
Why don't you post something on our social media account?
Something from the heart.
Show them that you're not in this for personal gain,
you're in it for the community. - Right.
(soft music)
(curious music)
(indistinct chatter)
(clears throat)
- Ah, just the woman I've been looking for.
It's... Faith, right?
- Oh, yes, I get it.
This must be about the baggage storage.
I know, it's a total mess.
I am so sorry. I will get right on that.
- Actually, no. Well, yes,
but this is something a bit more urgent.
It's about the prince.
- What about him?
- Well, as it turns out, his team needs a bit more help
than we've been able to offer,
so I would like you, Faith, to fill in the gap.
- Me? - Yes.
The prince's chief of staff, Peter,
has requested you directly.
You'll be reporting to him for the rest of the week.
Ah, she's all yours.
- I thought I was just a bellhop?
- You are,
but you said you take your job very seriously.
And I have a serious amount of work
to get through before the Christmas Eve ball.
Thought I might as well put you to work.
- You want me to do all this?
- Yeah. Errands, deliveries,
scheduling, dry-cleaning, phone calls.
I can always ask Christophe for someone else,
if it's too much for you to handle.
- I'll get right on it.
- Hmm, the charity tour's going fine.
No, not yet.
I'm trying my best, Mother.
He cancelled our dinner for Friday.
Yeah, some pageant at the local playhouse.
Oh, turns out he bought everyone on the charity tour a seat.
Oh yeah,
it's all over the royal family's social media.
Ugh. I swear,
he and this Athena Collins woman are inseparable.
Hmm, no, I haven't heard of her either.
Don't worry,
I've been keeping my eye on her.
There is no way she's going to jeopardize our partnership
with the royal family.
(sighs)
Would you be a doll and, um...
restock my mini fridge when you get a chance?
I'm all out of eggnog. - Mm-hmm.
(soft music)
(humming)
- I take it somebody had a good day.
- Aside from almost being caught by Victoria
while cleaning her room, yes,
James had the pageant flyer posted
on the royal family's social media account.
Not to mention, he also bought a seat
for everyone on the charity tour.
- He what? See?
I told you this was a good idea.
- Okay, don't get ahead of yourself.
We still have a long ways to go.
James is coming to the playhouse tonight
to help with the behind-the-scenes work
for the pageant, remember? - Okay, but still,
this doesn't change the fact that I'm proud of you.
I know living life on the edge isn't usually your MO.
- Oh, you're one to talk. - I take risks all the time.
- Really?
How's the concierge application going?
Yeah, yeah, that's what I thought.
- Look, it's not my fault. I've been busy.
Christophe gave me this assignment,
which basically just means
I'm Peter and James' personal errand girl
for the week. - What?
Faith, do you know what this means?
- That I'm gonna be working late every night this week?
- No! That you're finally on Christophe's radar.
This is the moment you've been waiting for.
(bright music)
(chuckles)
Oh, thanks, honey. That looks great.
- Who is that? Prince charming?
- Prince charming, what? - You know how the story goes.
First it starts with texting, next thing you know,
you're swaying around a ballroom as the clock strikes twelve.
- I don't think that's how the story goes.
- Not yet.
(laughs)
(bright holiday music)
And now, for the piece de resistance,
the Vagabond Playhouse!
Come on, follow me! (Neve chuckles)
- Let me know if you need me to tell her to slow down.
She's pretty excited. - Oh, don't worry about it.
Believe it or not,
I still remember what it was like to be her age.
You know, it's pretty hard
not to get swept up in the magic of it all.
- Tell me about it.
I remember the first time I sat in one of these chairs.
The lights, the set, the performance...
I was hooked.
- My mother always used to call it the great escape.
Before she passed.
I guess that's why we stopped going to the theater so much.
It was never quite the same after that.
- I'm sorry.
- No, don't be.
I'm just happy to be back.
Thanks to you,
I get a shot at working behind the curtain for once.
- Well, let's hope you're better at decorating sets
than you are at decorating cookies.
- Hmm, I can't make any promises.
(chuckles)
- What are you guys waiting for? - Oh.
We'd better go. - Oh, right.
(playful holiday music)
- Oh. (chuckles)
- Hmm. All right.
Oh.
- This igloo needs some snow.
The key is to sprinkle the snow lightly.
That way it looks natural, like snow.
See?
(phone ringing)
- Oh, um, this is Wade, the owner of the playhouse.
I should take this. - Okay.
Well, would you look at that?
- Practice makes perfect.
- Oh, whatever you say. You're the professional.
- Professional might be a bit of a stretch.
- No, don't be silly.
This igloo is...
straight out of the North Pole.
Not to mention, you are the star of the show.
Sounds like talent to me.
- Yeah?
Well, after this year,
I might be ready to kiss my acting career goodbye.
- Why do you say that? - Well,
for starters, it's a lot of pressure.
So much work goes into a pageant.
If I mess up, it's all for nothing.
- Hmm, that certainly is a lot of pressure.
Especially when you look at it like that.
- I guess I've just never been
that comfortable in the spotlight.
- Me neither.
But you know what they say,
the first step to being comfortable in the spotlight
is being comfortable in your own skin.
Confidence is everything.
- And how do I do that? Be confident, I mean.
- I'm still trying to figure that one out myself.
But I think a good start
would be to focus on your strengths.
Look, you are talented.
And once you truly believe that, you'll be unstoppable.
- You think so?
- I know so.
(clears throat)
Hey, is everything okay?
- Yeah, totally. Uh, sorry about that.
- Oh, don't be. Prim here picked up your slack.
- And it looks like she did an incredible job.
So incredible, I believe,
that it might be time for a snack.
Rumor has it someone left a tin
of peanut brittle in the lunch room.
- Say no more. I'll be right back.
- Well,
looks like you missed your calling.
- Well, what can I say?
I guess I'm sort of the full package, really.
- Really? - Yeah.
Not only am I incredibly charming...
(chuckles) ...but I can also...
Well, I can act, I can bake,
and now, as it turns out, I can decorate an igloo.
- Whatever will we do without you?
- Oh, well, not to worry,
I could always come back next year
to help with the pageant.
- Yeah. Next year.
- You know,
trying new things is pretty addictive.
And I was thinking, tomorrow,
I'd like to do something I've never done before.
I'd like to get out and... and experience
an authentic Christmas in Manhattan.
- Okay. You have to stop
by the chestnut cart on 8th Street.
To die for.
- Actually,
I was wondering if you'd like to join me?
(light piano music)
- Tomorrow?
- Yeah.
You could be my tour guide.
Seeing as you grew up here and all.
- Tour guide.
Yeah, I could do that.
- Great.
(city rumble)
- Morning!
- Morning.
- You okay? - Me? Yeah, I'm fine.
- Drink. Trust me, peppermint syrup is
the cure to all of life's problems.
(gulps) - Mm.
You may be right. - Mm-hmm.
- I didn't get any sleep.
- What's on your mind?
- Wade called me at the playhouse last night.
- Oh yeah?
Oh, he's probably so thrilled about all the work
you've been doing for the pageant.
The playhouse hasn't seen this much publicity in years.
- He is, but as it turns out,
if he doesn't secure enough new donors
by the new year,
he's gonna have to sell the theater.
- He what? - Yeah!
- Oh, I'm so sorry.
- I don't even know what to do. I mean, the Vagabond,
it's such a huge part of my life.
Of Prim's life. She's gonna be devastated.
- All of those rich philanthropists
from the charity tour are coming, right?
Maybe it'll inspire some of them to become new donors.
- Oh, don't remind me.
- This is a good thing, isn't it?
- Yeah, it is. It's just...
I don't know, I'm...
The more time that goes by,
the guiltier I feel about lying to everyone.
Especially James.
- What exactly happened last night?
- Nothing! Just did some painting and...
Well, then he asked me to hang out this afternoon
so I'm giving him a tour of Manhattan after my shift.
That's all.
- You're not thinking of coming clean, are you?
- Even if I wanted to, I can't.
I mean, we have too much on the line.
I'm gonna have to wait until after the pageant.
If we're gonna save the theater,
everything has to go according to plan.
I'll see ya later. - Bye.
- What do you mean, it's been delayed?
No, no, no. I don't care if it's been lost,
it's a royal tradition for the prince--
Hello? - There you are!
Okay, so I dropped off the prince's dry-cleaning,
I booked the ballroom
for the press conference next Sunday,
and I tracked down James's favorite cheese
from a local deli.
And here's your peppermint mocha,
egg and cheese croissant,
toasted but not toasty, lukewarm, yuck.
Okay, I guess that's it then.
It was fun working with you.
- Uh, no, no, no, wait, wait, wait.
That-that's not it. There's...
- Oh, I finished the rest yesterday.
Go ahead and say it, I'm incredible.
I know.
- Uh, oh no. (phone ringing)
- Is everything okay?
- Not really. I've just found out
James's ceremonial uniform for the ball
isn't going to arrive on time, of course.
The one time King Geoffrey left me in charge,
everything goes wrong. Well,
he's gonna be furious.
Yes, hello. Um, no, no.
I'm afraid I don't have any flexibility
on the timeline. We're going to need it.
- Mom, stop moving. - I have to breathe!
- There, done. - Great. Listen,
Faith is gonna drop you off at the sitter's okay?
I'm not gonna be too late.
Put some extra snacks in your backpack.
- Couture or casual? - Couture.
Definitely couture. - I already told you two,
this isn't a date. What I'm wearing is fine.
The whole point is to blend in. Okay?
He wants an authentic Christmas in Manhattan experience,
and that is what I'm gonna give him.
(knocking)
- He's here! - Have fun!
- Wish me luck.
(soft piano music)
- Athena, you're looking lovely.
- Thanks. And you look...
Well, you could almost pass for a real New Yorker.
- Thank you.
Shall we?
(bright music)
There you go.
- Thank you. - Thank you.
- Oh! Oh, they're so hot.
They smell so delightful, I... I can't resist.
Oh.
Oh, okay, yeah, my tongue is officially burnt.
(Neve chuckles) - But it was worth it, right?
- Mm, I think that woman recognized me.
- What? Relax. Honestly,
aside from the way you're walking,
you're fitting in just fine.
- What's wrong with the way I walk?
- Oh, come on,
you're doing that on purpose, right?
- Doing what?
Oh.
All right.
All right, I can get used to this, just...
(Neve laughs) ...strolling down the street.
- Really?
- No place to be but here and now.
- Sounds like someone's ready to trade in their limo
for a subway card already.
- Oh, well, I wouldn't go that far.
I mean, the extravagance does get a little old
but truthfully,
it's the pressure that gets under my skin.
- Yeah.
I guess having the whole world watch your every move
must be really tough.
- My father doesn't make it any easier.
And ever since my mother passed,
he and I, we don't...
We don't exactly see eye to eye.
I'm starting to think that, no matter how hard I try,
I'll never be able to fill his shoes as king.
- Why would you want to?
I mean, there's gotta be more to being king
than just taking somebody's else's place.
It's like you told Prim last night,
you have to focus on your strengths.
No two kings are alike.
So, you should be able to connect with your kingdom
in whatever way works for you.
You know, yesterday you mentioned
that you'd never decorated a tree before.
Well, what do you say we go find the most perfect Christmas tree?
- I like the sound of that.
- You got this.
Smile and you'll be confident, and...
It's okay that you missed the deadline,
you just...
(sighs) Yeah, yeah.
You just go in there and you...
You say...
(indistinct muttering)
Oh, no, no, no.
- Oh! - Whoa! Sorry.
- Don't worry. I'm used to it.
You want to be a concierge?
- Oh this? No. I, um...
I'm just dropping this off at Christophe's office for...
a friend.
- Oh, that's a shame.
Being a concierge would suit you.
- Really?
- Seeing as how you like getting involved
with everyone's business and all.
(chuckles) - Well,
lucky for you, sometimes my nosiness pays off.
- Raphael Blanchet? - Mm-hmm.
He stayed here for a month, last October.
He's a tailor with a specialty in fashioning
replica royal attire in movies.
- Nice try, but I already contacted him.
He's unavailable. - Well, lucky for you,
he owes me a favor.
So, he's already started recreating
James's ceremonial uniform for the ball.
(scoffs)
(jazzy holiday music)
(elevator dings)
- All right. - Got it.
- So, what makes this tree the perfect one, exactly?
- Well, that depends.
What's your type?
- I can tell you what's not my type,
anyone my father tries to set me up with.
(laughs) - I was talking about trees.
- Um, I don't know, I guess...
I guess I'm sort of hoping that,
when I do find the one,
it'll all become clear.
What about you? What's your type?
- Oh, you know, tall, robust. Can't be perfect, though.
Has to have some sort of imperfection
like a weird bald patch,
or a lopsided top, or something like that.
- You are still talking about trees, aren't you?
(Neve chuckles) - Yes.
But I don't think my...
Oh, my taste in men is that different.
I mean, I'm just looking for someone
who's comfortable with their flaws.
And willing to love me for mine.
I mean, I guess that's what everybody wants.
- I guess things didn't exactly work out
with Prim's father.
- We just had different visions for our lives.
But we make much better friends than we did partners.
Sometimes, you just have to know when to walk away,
you know?
- Or when to hold on.
Speaking of.
(laughing)
You all right?
(soft music)
- Oh. - Okay. You okay?
(James grunts)
- You have it? - I do. Hmm.
Oh, you all right? - Yeah.
- Okay. Here we go. (laughing)
Perfect.
- Where are your people when we need them?
- I know!
- And now, on to the Christmas Eve ball.
We've got the live band, the menu, the ice sculptures.
The only things left
are the prince's ceremonial uniforms.
- Actually, Christophe, about that,
Faith took care of it.
- Oh, she did? - Hmm.
- Well, there's still the rest of our list.
The red carpet, the flowers.
- A-actually, Faith handled all that too.
- All of it?
- I know. I couldn't believe it, either.
Turns out she's quite good at her job.
She really outdid herself.
- Well, I'm glad to hear that your partnership is working out.
I should keep a closer eye on her.
- Oh, I would, if I were you.
You wouldn't want someone else to scoop her up.
She's what we, in the royal business,
like to call a keeper.
- Huh.
- Okay. That's good.
- Yeah? - Care to do the honors?
- Oh, right. Um...
Okay.
Three, two, one.
- Ta-da!
- I love it!
(chuckles) - You haven't seen anything yet.
We have metallic ornaments,
sparkly ornaments. Here, put that one on.
- Oh, anywhere? - Anywhere.
We have lace ornaments, icicle ornaments,
candy cane ornaments. Oh, my goodness.
Aw, can't forget about these.
Those were always my favorite.
- An empty box? - Yeah. That's the point.
We didn't have a lot growing up
so we were always so excited to hang these on the tree
because Santa always left a little something inside.
Sounds so silly now. - Mmm-mmm.
Traditions are meant to be silly.
Otherwise, Christmas would just be
another ordinary day.
- Yeah, I guess you're right.
You have to take the time to enjoy the little things.
That's what makes the season special.
You know, I've had a lot of fun this week.
- Me too. And to think I was so worried
how this week was going to pan out.
- You were? - Yeah.
- Why?
- Trying new things is way outside of my comfort zone.
Which is why I'm glad I met you.
I mean, everyone else is always telling me
what I want to hear, but you...
You've been honest from the start.
- Oh, James.
Actually,
I've been meaning to tell you something.
- So have I. I mean,
it's actually more of a question, really.
Be honest.
- Okay. Yeah, what is it?
- Is there any chance you'd maybe, uh...
...like to go
to the Christmas Eve ball with me?
(gulps) - Um...
...to the ball, like as your date?
- Oh, I... I don't know about that.
I know that uh, spoiled rich kids
aren't usually your type. (Neve laughs)
Think of it more as a thank you
for all the hard work you've put in this week.
- I'd love to.
- Yeah? - Yeah.
- Really? - Yeah.
- Okay. Great.
Oh, what was it you were going to tell me
before I so rudely interrupted you?
- Uh, it was...
It-it was nothing.
I... I mean, I was just gonna say that--
(knocking)
(cart rolling in)
- Your evening snack, sir.
Biscuits?
- Good timing.
(James chuckles) - Biscuits.
(sighs)
(bright music)
- That's right, everything is in place
for the Christmas Eve ball.
- I must say, Peter, this is uh...
excellent.
You've really outdone yourself this week.
Coordinating a charity tour of this scale
isn't easy
and you've left no stone unturned.
- Thank you, sir.
- And as for you, son.
- Here we go.
- I'm equally as impressed.
- I know. I...
You are?
- Not only did you show up,
but you gave it your all.
Our community partners are thrilled
with our fundraising efforts.
I think you've...
You've really shown people
how great a king you're going to be someday.
Now, there's just one thing left to be done.
- Party like there's no tomorrow?
- No, seal the deal with Victoria's foundation.
- Right, that. Yes.
- I'd like you to escort Victoria
to the Christmas Eve ball.
We're going to be working with her closely
going into the new year
and uh, the media would like to see you two together
after our announcement at the press conference.
I, uh... trust that won't be a problem?
- Um, no, not at all.
- Good.
- Oh, uh...
One thing.
- What do you mean,
you're not taking Victoria to the ball?
- Peter, can this wait? Please,
I'm already running late to help set up at the playhouse.
- No, James, this can't wait.
I'm not gonna let you throw away all your hard work now.
- I'm not trying to sabotage the tour, Peter,
it's just that...
I already have plans, all right?
- Whoa, whoa, whoa, whoa, whoa! Like...
Like, a date?
Hang on, you've not had a date since--
- All right, all right, you're one to talk.
But if you must know, yes,
I've asked Athena to go with me to the ball.
Plus, my father's not even going to be there.
Victoria and I will pose for a few pictures
and he'll have no idea.
- And if he finds out?
- He won't. I have a plan.
Please, just this once, trust me.
- I'm just doing my job.
- There's more to life than just work, Peter.
Maybe you should follow my lead.
Relax a bit.
You know,
I'm sure there's someone out there for you as well.
You just need to take the time to notice.
(tapping)
(uplifting music)
- Ava, Laura,
Sam, Joey, Lexi.
Prim?
- Hey.
I've got the stage props lined up,
the costume changes laid out, and the music queue sorted.
Is there anything else we're missing?
- Our star. - Prim?
- Hmm, one second.
(mystical instrumental music)
Hmm, I thought I might find you here.
You ready to blow everyone away, or what?
- I think we may need to call the understudy.
- Why, honey? Are you not feeling all right?
- I was, until I started rehearsing.
I don't get it.
I spent weeks preparing.
And poof, it's all gone.
How am I supposed to act if I can't remember my lines?
- Aw, honey,
acting is more than just a bunch of words
on a piece of paper.
Everyone struggles with their lines, trust me.
Being a good actor means having the ability
to believe in your character.
Most importantly, believe in yourself.
If you can do that, well,
I'm willing to bet you'll know exactly what to say.
You got this.
What do you say we go show the world
what Madame Candy Cane is made of?
Okay, so there's only like 14 left, okay.
So, probably,
we'll just keep a tab at the end.
- Ah, the beautiful sound of anticipation.
- Wade, you're back!
- Oh, I have never seen the playhouse so packed.
I knew you could pull this off, kiddo.
- Thanks, but we still have to make it
to the end of the show. - Just don't forget
to appreciate how far you've come.
Okay? No matter what happens.
- Noah, you made it!
- My last meeting got cancelled.
- Oh, Prim's gonna be so excited.
- Is this seat taken? - No, it's all yours.
- Excuse me. Sorry, sorry. Coming through.
- Faith. - Peter, hey.
- Um... what are you doing here?
- Athena got tickets for the hotel staff.
Popcorn?
- Um, okay. Sure. Why not?
(soft music)
(magical chiming music)
- Finally, the day has come.
I've packed my bags and off we'll run.
To the North Pole for a better life
where my candy canes will be free of strife.
(upbeat holiday music)
(applause)
You made it! - Hey!
You were amazing up there, Prim!
- What can I say? I learned from the best.
- You earned it, kiddo.
- I wanna show you around.
I have my own dressing room and everything! Come on!
- Congratulations, Miss Director.
You pulled it off. - Well, we pulled it off.
I mean, this place was packed because of you.
- Oh, please. Don't be so modest.
I may have helped spread the word
but they weren't applauding for me.
Or were they?
I mean, that igloo looked pretty good up there.
(laughs)
- There you are.
I've been looking everywhere for you.
- Oh, sorry, I didn't realize you were looking for me.
- Not you, Athena.
I wanted to congratulate you on such a beautiful production.
- You did?
- The script, the set, the acting,
and from such young kids, very impressive.
My foundation would be happy to make a contribution.
- Thank you. That's so generous, Victoria.
- Oh, it's the least I could do.
This place is in desperate need of a facelift.
Seriously, it's like walking into the 15th century in here.
- Yeah. (Victoria chuckles)
(James): Hmm.
Sorry.
(bright music)
- Hey, I only have so many of those.
- Well, if someone wasn't hogging all the good candies.
Oh. Is that supposed to be a castle?
- Uh-huh. Every princess needs a castle
if she's gonna live happily ever after.
- Okay. (phone ringing)
Ooh, speaking of happily ever after,
it's Wade. - Oh!
- Hi, Wade.
Oh.
Yeah, I understand.
Um, sure.
Thanks for letting me know.
- So? - Um, apparently,
we received several generous donations
after the show last night. - That's amazing!
That's amazing?
- It's not enough.
Wade's at the bank right now. They won't renew our loan
without a long-term financial partner,
so if he can't find one by Christmas,
he has no choice but to sell.
I can't believe that last night's pageant
was the Vagabond's last show. - No.
No, no, no, don't you dare. We can't give up now.
- Tomorrow's Christmas Eve, Faith.
Time's up. We've tried everything.
- What about James?
Maybe he could help. - Not a chance.
When he finds out I've been lying to him,
I'll be lucky if he doesn't have me thrown in jail.
Or worse, the dungeon.
- Okay, judging by how he looks at you,
I'm guessing he'll be more forgiving than that.
(soft music)
- Right, your table will be right there,
close to the dessert table, as requested.
- Hmm. - Now, on the night of the ball,
it's very important
that you and Victoria enter from those doors,
right after the...
right after the herd of wild buffalo
finish their performance of The Nutcracker.
- Buffalo?
- Oh, so now I have your attention?
- Peter.
- King Geoffrey.
- There's my boy.
- Father, what are you doing here?
I thought you were staying in Genova?
- And miss out on spending Christmas
in New York with my son?
Not a chance.
- Hmm.
(phone beeps) - Oh, just a sec.
(knocking)
- Athena?
(curious music)
(camera shutter snaps)
(exhales)
- Oh, no, no, no.
Oh, no, no, no.
- Ahem!
Slacking of at work again, I see?
- Oh, Christophe, no. I had just--
- Relax. I'm just kidding. (chuckles)
No, but in all seriousness,
I wanted to discuss something with you.
It's about your application for the concierge position.
- Dorothy Abigail-Johnson,
checking in to the executive suite.
- Now, I'm sure you're aware
accepting late applications goes against company policy,
but seeing as you really stepped up to the plate
these past few weeks... - Christophe,
could you just hold on for-- - ...I would like to offer you--
- ...just one sec-- - ...the position.
- You what? - That's right.
Well, you can thank Peter.
He raved about you so much,
well I had no choice but to reconsider.
But honestly, I think he's right.
You really did earn it.
(soft music)
- Athena?
Hello?
- Victoria?
- Dorothy!
Oh, it's been too long. - Mm-hmm.
- The last time I saw you was the Hampton's?
- Mm-hmm. - How was Hawaii?
- Oh, join me for tea and I'll tell you all about it.
It's too bad I had to miss the charity tour.
- Well, at least you made it back in time for the ball.
- Let me show you what I'm thinking about wearing.
- Hmm.
- Uh...
(scoffs)
It's... it's beautiful.
- Neve, can I talk to you for a second?
- Yeah. - Now?
- What?
- Please tell me you spoke to James.
- We're meeting up after work.
- Oh, I was afraid you might say that.
(gasps)
- Neve...
Can I see you in my office, please?
- Of course.
- There she is. See?
I told you. - No.
Must be...
- Athena, how nice of you to join us.
Or shall I call you something else?
- What's going on?
- Neve, Victoria here would like you to explain
why you've been entering the executive suites
after hours.
- Neve.
So that's your real name.
- It's not what it looks like. I was doing my job,
but then-- - Hmm?
I wasn't aware that impersonating
guests was a part of your job.
- Please, I can explain this. - Explain what?
How you lied about your identity?
No need. We have it all right here.
I asked Christophe to look back at the security camera footage.
She's been wearing Dorothy's clothes all week,
pretending to be somebody she's not.
It turns out Athena is nothing more
than a hotel housekeeper.
- This doesn't make any sense.
You lied.
- I didn't mean to, you just--
- Neve, that's enough. You're free to go.
Pack up your belongings.
I'm sorry,
but you're no longer employed at the Royal Plaza.
- Yes, sir.
- Athena.
Athena!
Neve, wait!
Please! - Why are you chasing me, James?
You heard Victoria,
I'm nothing but a hotel housekeeper.
- I don't understand. I mean,
why would you keep this from me?
Sneaking into the charity tour. Lying about your identify.
F-for what?
- You knocked on my door, remember?
I was just messing around. We were just....
trying on her clothes and then...
- What? You just decided to keep up the act?
- No! Yes. I...
I was gonna tell you the truth.
I swear. It's just things got...
- What?
- Complicated.
- I think what you mean is you saw your opportunity.
I helped you.
I opened up to you.
(sighs) I thought you were different.
- Please, James.
It's not like that.
- Then what is it like, Neve?
What reason could you possibly have
for lying to me like this? - Come on.
Can't you see?
You and I are from two different worlds here.
It's my job to be invisible. Don't pretend
like you would have given me the time of day.
- How could you say that? - Because it's the truth.
- What do you know about truth, Neve?
You know what my favorite thing was
about Athena?
She treated me like a person.
Not like a prince. Not like a king.
She never judged me based on where I came from.
She accepted me for me.
- So do I.
- No. No, Neve, you don't.
Victoria was right. (camera shutter snaps)
You're not at all the person I thought you were.
(camera shutter snaps)
Just please.
(camera shutter snaps) Please.
(soft music)
(Neve sighs)
- I'll go grab my things.
(soft magical music)
What's that? - Ooh, just a costume I wore
in a Christmas pageant when I was your age.
- It's a pretty cool costume, I must say.
- Certainly was quite the pageant.
It started with a snowstorm
and ended with the power going out.
- The show must go on, right?
- Exactly! You know,
it didn't seem to matter what went wrong back then.
The stage was always my happy place.
Just like you.
- Honey, I'm so sorry I let you down.
- You didn't let me down, Mom.
This Christmas was the best Christmas
I've ever had.
And we may have lost the playhouse,
but we didn't lose each other.
And if I have that, that's all I need.
- Faith!
Just the person I've been looking for.
- Yes, um,
James's ceremonial uniform arrived this morning.
Hot off the press. Here you go.
- Oh wait, I...
I wanted to talk with you
about what happened with Athena.
You do know what I'm talking about, right?
- Uh... right. Um...
Yes, I was involved.
I'm the one who told her to try on the dress
and I'm the one who came up with the name Athena.
We wanted to tell you guys the truth sooner,
it's just that the Vagabond, it was in jeopardy--
- Wait, wait, wait. Slow down, all right?
- I'm sorry. Okay?
And I completely understand if you wanna tell Christophe
because you vouched for me and I...
I let you down.
- I'm not gonna tell Christophe.
I meant what I said to him.
You're good at your job.
Actually, you're um...
you're good at a lot of things.
Which is why I need your help.
(somber music)
(knocking)
- Come in.
Peter.
What are you doing here?
- I was just coming to check in.
- To see if I was ready for the press conference?
I'm not going.
My father and I both agreed
that I've done enough damage as it is.
- Actually that's not why I'm here, James.
I... came to say I'm sorry.
- You're sorry?
I'm the one who messed up.
You worked so hard
to make sure this charity tour was a success
and thanks to me, it was all for nothing.
- It wasn't for nothing.
The whole point of this tour
was for you to learn to be a leader.
As far as I'm concerned, that's what you did.
Look, I...
I've been thinking about
what you said the other day
and you're right,
there's a lot more to life than work.
You're my best friend and I...
I just want you to be happy.
(clicks tongue)
- She lied to me, Peter.
- Yes.
Yes, she did, but...
...perhaps there's more to the story
than just that. Hmm?
(bright music)
- What are you doing here?
I thought we agreed I'd handle this?
- We did.
But I've changed my mind.
This is my mess.
I should be the one to clean it up.
- Ah, don't worry, James. I've got this.
After I've done with them,
it will be like none of this ever happened.
- And why would I want that? I mean,
I know that this week
didn't turn out the way you wanted,
but I don't want to throw it all away.
- I was just trying to help. - No, I know you were.
But it's time for me to help myself.
You sent me here
to prove that I'm ready to be king.
I don't want to run away
from my responsibilities anymore.
(chuckles)
Really.
- A king always stands up for what they believe in.
Who am I to stop you from raising your voice?
- I promise,
I won't let you down, Father.
- You could never let me down, Son.
- All right.
(light music)
- Merry Christmas. - What's this?
- A list of every Manhattan hotel
that's hiring. - Faith, I told you,
it's not your fault that I lost my job.
- You wouldn't have tried on that dress
if it weren't for me. - Exactly!
I should be thanking you.
Maybe it's time for me to try new things.
Live life on the edge, like you? - Ha.
- Congratulations on the concierge position,
by the way. I knew you were a shoo-in.
- Thank you. I would have never applied
if it weren't for you. - Hmm.
- Hurry!
Look who's on TV!
- Thank you all for coming.
I know you'd like to dive into some questions,
but before we do, I'd like to say a quick word.
When I arrived in Manhattan,
I knew that I wanted to make a connection.
And sure, volunteering was a start.
But what I didn't realize then
was that forming a connection
isn't something that can be forced.
It... It has to happen naturally.
And that's not all I learned this week.
I learned how-how to bake... (chuckles)
...how to work behind the scenes at a theater,
how to decorate a Christmas tree.
I also learned that being a prince
doesn't mean you have to put on an act.
It means learning to be brave.
Brave enough to own up to your mistakes.
Brave enough to be yourself.
Which is why I want to say thank you
to the people at the charities,
the Vagabond Playhouse,
and the Royal Plaza Hotel.
It's thanks to you
that I was finally able to experience
what Christmas is really all about,
family.
Thank you.
(phone chimes)
- Oh, looks like our limo's early.
- Limo?
- Yeah, how else are we supposed to get
to the Christmas Eve ball? - What are you talking about?
- Peter and I might have arranged a little something.
Ooh, and I can't forget these,
our gowns for the ball.
That is, if you still would like to accept James's invitation?
- I don't know. I-I can't just leave Prim.
- You can drop me off at Dad's on the way.
- So, what do you say?
(jazzy music)
(indistinct chatter)
- Neve.
Hi.
- Hi.
- You look...
Wow.
Can I have this dance?
(sighs)
- I'm so sorry.
- No, I'm sorry.
I overreacted.
I should have given you the chance to explain yourself.
You were just trying to protect the playhouse.
- I know, but...
lying to you, lying to everyone, I mean...
it was the wrong way to go about it.
I just thought if I told you the truth,
that you wouldn't want anything to do with me.
I was wrong.
Turns out you're more than just a spoiled prince.
You're so much more than that.
- Thanks to you.
- What do you mean?
- I've spent my whole life
trying to avoid my royal responsibilities,
but responsibility wasn't my problem.
It was me.
I thought I had to be perfect.
And spending the week with you, trying new things,
made me realize that I was wrong.
I've never been able to be myself around anyone,
not like I have been with you.
- Me neither.
- Which is why I've decided to come on board
as an official partner with the Vagabond Playhouse.
- What? - Actually,
Victoria and I have both decided to come on board.
She apologized for what happened the other day
and she'd like to make it up to you.
- I don't even know what to say.
- How about yes?
As it turns out, Wade is thinking about retiring
and we are going to need someone to run things around there.
- It's funny you should mention it
because I, uh...
I'm actually in the market for a new job.
- Really? You don't say.
- To be honest, I...
I never thought this day would actually come.
- And what day is that?
- My happily ever after.
(magical instrumental music)
(upbeat holiday music)
Subtitling: difuze