♪
[pssst]
[sniffs]
Hmmm...
Festive yet subtle with hints of vanilla and pine.
The perfect gift for the cognoscenti in every family.
[incoming call ring]
Hi Mom! Hi Dad!
Hey! You haven't sent us a copy of your trip itinerary yet.
Have you checked the tire pressure in the car?
[Elise] Your father is going to send you a copy of all
the weather reports for each of the states along the way.
[Frank] Oh and pack some flares,
and kitty litter for traction.
Don't worry.
I have been planning this trip home for weeks.
I leave tomorrow morning and I'll be hitting all
the festive stops along the way to review for the magazine.
[Frank] That's my girl.
Writing off every expense you can.
[Elise] We can't wait to have you home.
Oh speaking of, is James home for the holidays this year?
I can set up the guest room.
No, I don't think so. His tour keeps getting extended.
I actually haven't spoken to him in months.
Oh, that's too bad.
We always love having him celebrate with us.
Me too.
[oven timer chimes]
Oh! That's my cookies. Gotta go.
[Elise] All right. We'll see you home soon.
And call us from the road!
But not while you're driving.
I am dying for your baking!
We'll see you Christmas Eve. Bye.
Seeing your family for the holiday?
I'm going to ask my girl to marry me.
Man, that's incredible, congrats.
We're going to miss you around here.
Thanks, brother.
Merry Christmas and be well.
Same to you.
[knocking at door]
Coming!
Thanks again for looking after the plants.
I'm so glad that we won't be reliving
the cactus incident of 2012.
Hey Tiff.
What are you doing here?
I thought you weren't coming home for the holidays.
Change of plans.
Well, come in.
You just caught me.
I won't hold you up.
I just needed to see you.
It's been what, like eight months? I miss you.
The thing is, I've accomplished a lot in the last ten years,
but it's time to start thinking about the next chapter.
Moving on...
Settling down...
I'm not sure how to say this.
Don't be nervous.
It's me, your best friend.
Just say what you're trying to say.
I'm ready for a real relationship,
a family...
That's so good to hear.
And I think I've found the woman to spend my life with.
Finally!
Her name is Ashley.
We met overseas.
Her father is one of my commanding officers.
Tiff, you okay?
Yeah...
Okay... Um, great.
How long have you guys known each other?
Six months.
That's why I needed to see you.
I'm planning to propose at Christmas
and I need my grandmother's ring.
You still have it, right?
Yes, of course.
But, don't you think it's a little soon to propose?
I mean, I've had my house plants for longer than six months
and let's be honest, I won't be that upset if my neighbor
forgets to water them.
I know it's fast.
Yeah!
But her family has a history of proposals during Christmas.
It's kind of tradition.
-Well, talk about pressure. -[message notification]
Tiff, I hate to cut this short, but I have to report
back to base and you look ready to head out.
So, if I can just grab the ring, I'll be right on my way.
It's not here.
It's back home. I put it in a time capsule.
What? A time capsule? You what?
You buried my grandmother's ring?
The family heirloom ring I gave you
for safekeeping when I enlisted.
Of course not. It's on a shelf in the basement.
Perfectly safe.
[laughs] Okay.
Well, okay...
Call your mom, ask her to open the time capsule...
[Tiffany shouts] No!
That's not possible.
I'm the only one who can open it.
Why? Does it have some sort of
biometrics technology or something?
No.
It's got some really personal stuff in there.
Tiffany, this is important.
I'm sorry, but I'm not asking my mom to open it.
I have been waiting ten years for this, Jay-Jay.
I know you don't like being called that anymore.
Not since I was like four.
It slipped out.
I assume you haven't gotten over your fear of flying?
The last plane I was on had to emergency land in San Diego.
Then I guess we're going on a road trip.
[computer keys clacking]
[James' phone rings]
-Hey. -Hey!
Where are you? We were expecting you here hours ago.
Yeah, I uh...
Hit a bit of a snag.
What do you mean a snag?
I just have something important I need to do first.
But I'll be there as soon as I can.
What is it?
It's kind of a surprise.
Okay, I got to go, but I will call you tonight.
Oh, okay. Umm... Miss you.
Miss you, too.
Ready to go?
As soon as you put this on.
I'm not wearing that.
Oh come on, where's your Christmas spirit?
Anxiously waiting for me on a military base.
[sniffs]
Smells like an elf died in here. What is that?
It's ginger spice. I'm reviewing it for the magazine.
Too much?
[gags] Just a little, yeah.
Well, maybe it's just one of those scents
that needs to grow on you.
It's grown on me. Now I have to have it surgically removed.
Okay.
Too much ginger, not enough spice.
♪ [loud Christmas music starts]♪
♪
[music stops abruptly]
Hey! That's my holiday jam.
We need to plot the route.
Already ahead of you.
[map snaps open]
[James] Four days? No!
We can make it in two if we take turns driving.
I have been planning this trip home for weeks.
Did you know that the world's largest
Santa figurine collection is in Utah...
I need to get the ring and get back to base
as soon as possible.
James...
Fine. Three days. One roadside attraction.
-But... -No buts.
I'm not the one who sealed a cherished family heirloom
in a time capsule,remember?
[Tiffany's eclectic Christmas playlist plays in the car]
♪ The first Noel The Angels did sing ♪
Let's play a road trip game.
Christmas words that start with 'S'.
I'll go first.
♪
Snow.
Um...
Santa.
That was an easy one.
Sleigh.
As in Santa's ride, not a holiday massacre.
Snowman.
You technically piggy-backed off my word, but I'll allow it.
Um...
Sack.
Your turn.
I think I should focus on driving.
♪ [Tiffany's eclectic Christmas playlist plays] ♪
Sorry, I'm just feeling guilty
for not being completely honest with Ashley.
She's really special to you, huh?
She's one of the most compassionate people
I've ever met.
And she's the daughter of one of your commanding officers?
Yeah... Sergeant Dave's been my mentor for years.
They have a huge family
and everyone gets together on the base for the holidays.
It's really nice.
It does sound nice.
What's her astrological sign?
I'm not sure.
When's her birthday?
March the 20th.
Okay.
Or 22nd...
You're going to ask her to marry you
and you don't know when her birthday is?
I know it's in March.
Well, that means she could be an Aries or a Pisces.
I don't put much stock in all that.
Obviously. Because you're a Capricorn.
Okay, well, is she a dog person or a cat person?
Dog person.
[buzzer sound] Wrong!
You googled her?
Luckily I did. You're deathly allergic to cats.
I just saved your life. You're welcome.
Tiff!
All I'm saying is that six months is not a long time
to know someone before making a commitment this big.
It's long enough.
Nobody wants to wait forever.
Okay, easy one.
What do you love about her?
That's an easy one?
Isn't it?
As I said, she's compassionate.
She's smart, caring and funny.
Yes, yes, I'm sure she's delightful, but what is
uniquely her that makes you believe that she's the one?
She just gets it. Gets me.
This military life. That's important.
♪
Okay, then.
♪
♪ [changes music to something funky] ♪
♪
[James sings] ♪ We wish you a merry road trip ♪
♪ We wish you a merry road trip ♪
♪ We wish you a merry road trip... ♪
♪ And we are going home!
Scrooge.
What? I am not a Scrooge.
Another 'S' word. Your turn.
♪
[alien sounding beeps and music]
This is your one stop?
This shop was listed as one of the top must-see
holiday attractions by Sci-Fi Fanatics Magazine.
Well, if it's a must-see.
No! I am not on the clock.
If I only get one stop, I'm going to enjoy it.
And so are you.
Did you just throw an object at an officer in uniform?
♪ [fun music starts]
Come here, Tiff!
♪ Let's have a feast Let's celebrate ♪
♪ This time of year That special day ♪
♪ We got a tree We feeling good ♪
♪ It's all lit up in the neighborhood ♪
♪ We can barely sleep Can't wait no more ♪
♪ Yeah that's how we feel on the 24th ♪
♪ We are all together That's the greatest gift ♪
♪ So let's celebrate cause it's the 25th ♪
♪ Come together Now and forever ♪
♪ It's Christmas
♪ Santa's here with holiday cheer ♪
♪ It's Christmas
♪ Yeah it's Christmas time again ♪
[song ends]
I have to admit, this is pretty cool.
Right? Non-traditional, but definitely an experience.
Christmas on base isn't all that traditional either,
but Ashley's family helps to organize a few events
to make it feel a bit more like home.
Guess she wouldn't consider spending the holidays
in Chicago instead?
Nah, I don't think so.
Take your time.
I should look around for the review.
Hi.
Hi! What names would you like written on this, dear?
James and Tiffany.
I mean, Ashley...
James and Ashley.
Well, if that's your final answer, I'll get this going.
It sure is.
Five dollars, please.
[James] Thank you.
[Bazaar Clerk]} Thank you!
[Tiffany] What do you think?
It really suits you. It brings out your...
[talks like an alien] Inner alien.
[clears her throat]
Oh, no no no no no no...
I don't think they have mistletoe on other planets.
Plus it's an archaic tradition that fails to take into
consideration an important thing called consent.
Yeah, and besides we're just friends.
Best friends. So yuck.
Yuck?
I mean, right?
I don't know. We've never done it before.
Well you know that mistletoe isn't only for lovers, right.
I mean, why don't you just have a friendly consensual kiss then.
Unless you want a year of cosmic bad luck.
I don't want cosmic bad luck, do you?
Not particularly.
[James' phone rings]
It's Ashley. I should...
Yeah.
Hey.
Hey, I've been trying to call you!
Yeah. The reception on the roads has been pretty sketchy.
It doesn't sound like you're on the road.
Yeah, I'm at this alien Christmas bazaar thing.
Look, I'm sorry I didn't mention this earlier, but
Tiffany was driving home to her parents for Christmas
and well, I just didn't want her driving home alone,
so I offered to tag along.
Christmas Alien Bazaar...
Okay. Well that's sweet of you. But are you still coming?
Yeah, of course. Yeah.
As soon as she's home safe and sound, I'll be right on my way.
Just hurry up and get here already.
You're missing all the holiday fun.
[Tiffany] I have mistletoe.
Oh, well...
I'll be there soon.
Okay. See you soon.
Bye.
I think that ornament should be ready by now.
Yeah, we should probably hit the road.
Happy Intergalactic Christmas!
Yeah, you too.
[James snores loudly]
♪ [Christmas music plays on radio] ♪
[James snores loudly]
♪
Sooo...
'S'...
-Snoring. -[James snores]
Slumber...
[James snoring]
[Tiffany] Sleep while you can, James.
At Sunrise, you Steer, I Snooze.
[James snores]
[James] So...
what's the deal with this time capsule, anyway?
Well, I got a beautiful stainless steel case
and I put it together the Christmas before you enlisted.
Which is why I put the ring in there.
Other than my ring, what else is in it?
I'm not telling you that. It's private.
Oh come on.
Just stuff that was important to me back then.
Hmm. Okay, why not just store everything in a box?
A box! No!
This is way more special.
Time capsules are a historic cache used as a method of
communicating with future people.
In this case my future self.
You set a date for it to be opened, this Christmas,
and it should mark an important life event.
I guess that's kind of cool.
Yes it is.
I figured it would appeal to your historian side.
I'll grab snacks.
Sounds good.
[ringing tone]
[Elise] Happy Holiday Road Trip Day!
James is driving with me.
Oh, that's wonderful!
Why aren't you more excited?
He's not staying. He's spending the holidays on base.
Oh, and he plans to propose to a woman he met six months ago.
What? Huh?
[Tiffany] Exactly.
He's only along for the ride to get his grandmother's ring.
You know, the one I put in the time capsule.
[Elise] Okay. Well, don't panic just yet.
I mean, anything can happen in the next few days
on the road, right?
Well, that's the other thing.
He needs the ring as soon as possible
so we're cutting the drive short.
[Tiffany] Only one fun stop.
Okay darling. Love you.
[Elise] Try and talk some sense into that boy.
I'll try.
Can I interest you in a holiday scented air freshener?
It's ginger spice.
-Um... No thanks. -Fair.
It actually smells like an elf died.
Ready to go?
Do you think you have enough sugar?
No such thing.
♪ [upbeat Christmas music plays in the car] ♪
♪
Maybe we should stop for the night?
Oh yeah.
I am not spending another night on the road.
[Tiffany] Oh wow! Look at this place!
This hotel has some Christmas spirit!
[James] Yeah you can say that again.
The front desk said this was the only room available.
This works.
As long as you're okay with it.
Yeah, of course.
Oh! Did you want this one?
No no no no no. It's all yours.
Oh wow.
Yeah, I thought you might like some privacy.
A little trick I learned from co-ed platoon tents overseas.
Thank you.
Nice PJs! [laughs]
Laugh all you want but these are the softest PJs I've ever worn.
They are definitely getting a five star review.
They're cute.
What is it? Puppies and Christmas critters?
I was supposed to be alone when I packed for this trip.
Why is that?
Why is what?
Why are you single?
I can't remember the last time you dated someone.
I don't know. It just hasn't really been a priority.
And dating in LA is a nightmare.
Hard to tell genuine interest from someone who thinks
I can help advance their career somehow
because I work for the press.
Yeah, but
you meet people at work and networking events, right?
I like to keep my professional and personal lives separate.
Roger that.
[bathroom door opens, closes]
You good?
Yep. You?
Yep.
I, uh, saw your release papers.
I wasn't snooping or anything.
They were just kind of out in the open.
I was going to tell you.
I've decided to apply for a civilian position.
No more active duty.
That must have been a big decision.
It was. But I've served ten years, four tours overseas...
They take their toll.
Your grandfather would be really proud.
You think so?
[Tiffany] Yeah.
Yeah, following in his footsteps was always important to me.
And the military gave me a great education.
I've seen the world.
Are you having second thoughts?
Part of me feels like I'm letting people down or...
Will be.
Like Ashley?
Her father mostly.
The family has been on six different bases
on three different continents.
And her mom actually served too before she had Ashley, so...
[Tiffany] Well, I'm sure they'll support your decision.
Yeah. I hope so.
So, what's next?
[chuckles]
Yeah, I'm not sure yet.
I want to do something with my military history degree
and stay active in the community.
I know whatever you decide to do you'll be great.
And I will sleep better at night knowing you're not overseas.
[snort laugh] You have never had any trouble sleeping.
[Tiffany pretends to snore loudly]}
I'm sorry, did you say something?
I fell asleep. [giggles]
Night Tiff.
Night James.
[Tiffany] I'm really sorry about the ring and this detour.
I know you're in a rush to get to Ashley.
It's cool.
I'm actually happy we get to spend time together before I...
Before your next chapter begins.
[James breathes heavily] No.
No no no no.
No.
[James sobbing] No!
[James mumbles]
-James? -Get away.
James.
[James] No!
[panting] No! No!
Hey, James.
[James mumbles]
-James. -[yells] No!
-James. -No!
Hey, hey. Hey.
Okay.
-You okay? -Yeah.
It's just a nightmare. Sorry to wake you.
It's okay.
Holiday pajamas, though comfy, evoke night terrors.
I'll be sure to mention it in my review.
Whoo!
Movie?
Are you sure you don't want to go back to sleep?
If I only get you for a few days, I'd rather stay awake.
You good?
This ain't my first rodeo.
Okay.
[they both laugh]
♪ [majestic movie music plays]
♪
[light snoring]
[Tiffany yawns loudly]
[James] Good morning.
Oh! What time is it?
O seven hundred hours.
We're a bit behind schedule so we should get going.
Yeah, of course.
So... Life in LA...
How's that going?
Good. It's different.
Kind of lonely, actually.
Lonely? In LA?
Yeah well having a lot of people around
doesn't really mean anything.
Plus I work from home so that can be kind of isolating.
I really miss my parents.
Then why not move back home to be near them?
Maybe...
You can do your job from anywhere, right?
Yeah.
Still want to work for a big newspaper?
Wasn't that the dream?
Community college only got me so far, I guess.
You could always go back to school.
You were so great at asking those deep, piercing questions.
[they both laugh]
Not always a positive trait.
Yeah.
Well, I actually have a big question of my own to ask.
Oh yeah? That sounds ominous.
Will you be my best man?
I mean, best woman?
[skidding]
You okay?
Are you okay?
Great. Just great.
That came out of nowhere.
We were already behind schedule.
I'm sorry. This is my fault?
You were the one who peeled off the road.
Okay, well, maybe don't drop a bomb like that on someone
when they're driving on slippery roads.
A bomb?
I asked you to stand beside me at my wedding.
She hasn't even said yes yet.
Ah, Tiff!
James, I haven't spoken to you in months.
You just show up out of the blue and tell me that you're marrying
someone you barely know and ruin my road trip.
And now I'm expected to be, like what?
A third wheel in your life?
No. I expect you to be my best friend.
An important part of my life.
Oh Tiff, what?
You don't think we can be friends after I get married?
Oh come on! Marriage changes things.
Well, it doesn't have to.
You can't have the best of both worlds, James.
Why?
[James' phone rings]
It's Ash.
Hello.
[Tiffany, softly] That's why.
[James into phone] Yeah, this is not good.
♪ [upbeat Christmas music playing in car] ♪
♪
We should be there in a few hours.
Why don't you take a nap?
You'll feel better when we get there.
Okay.
♪ [slow music starts]
♪ Snow is falling down the streetlights ♪
♪ Lights are up replacing the leaves ♪
♪ I just wanna be outside
♪ Cut a tree from our backyard
♪ Snowball fights till it gets dark ♪
♪ Warming up by the fire
♪ It's Christmas Time
♪
♪ It's Christmas Time
♪
Hey...
We're here.
♪
Let's get you that ring.
Right. Let's go.
♪ It's Christmas Time
♪
♪ It's Christmas Time
[Tiffany] Mom! Dad!
Hey hey!
Oh honey!
What's with the matching outfits?
Oh, we're training for the Christmas Eve, 5K Santa Scoot.
The one on Christmas Eve morning?
-Yeah. -That's ambitious.
Yeah, well, it's mostly downhill.
Okay!
[they all chuckle]
It's good to see you, son. How was the drive?
A blur.
[Elise] How fast were you driving?
My fault. I've got to get back to base.
What? You're not staying for Christmas?
I got out all your favorite board games.
I told you guys. James is seeing someone.
He's spending the holidays with her family on base.
Well, you can't leave until you try my new ginger spice cookies.
Okay. Maybe just one.
Get in there!
[Elise] Come on. Try these.
I have been dreaming about holiday cookies
for last twelve months.
Everything in LA is like gluten free, and carb free...
[gagging]
[Tiffany] Oh!
Oh! It lingers!
I tried something different. Um... Sugarless.
Why?
Your dad and I are trying eat healthier.
So now we have to be punished?
Don't New Year's resolutions start in January?
Well, we want to get a head start on things.
[James] Speaking of...
You know I'd love to stay,
but I really should be getting on the next flight out.
You look so tired. Maybe you should have a nap.
Or a good meal at least.
I'm really sorry, but I can't stay.
Can we get that ring?
Yeah. Of course.
One family heirloom ring coming right up.
Yeah, I'll just stay here and I'll do some warm ups.
Whoa!
What happened to the basement?
Surprise!
It's our new wellness center.
I'm mean, it's still under construction,
but fitness starts here.
It's looks great, mom.
Oh good!
So, where'd you put all my stuff?
It's gone!
Well, I donated most of it to charity.
It was a bunch of old clothes that are out of style
and books that you're never read going to read again.
Based on my recipe book sales, nobody reads paperbacks anymore.
I'm actually thinking of starting a blog
or maybe doing that tik tak thing...
Mom!
Yeah, uh huh?
Please tell me that you kept my time capsule?
Oh! Yes darling. Of course I kept that.
I just can't remember where I put it.
But, don't worry, I'll think of it.
We'll help you look.
Oh no no!
Actually, you and Tiffany are going to have to search for it.
Frank and I are getting ready to go for a run.
We need to train!
-Mom... -I'm coming Frank!
I need to catch up to your father.
He got a head start.
[yells] Don't slow down on account of me!
I'm the one that's the sprinter in the family.
Hey, if I was you, I'd start at the back of the wellness center.
Good luck!
[yells] I'm coming Frank!
Ah...!
You've got to be kidding me.
I thought you said you knew where it was.
I did know exactly where it was.
I had no idea that my mom was going to declutter
and make a home gym.
What does it look like?
It's a metal tin like this big.
And it has an open by date sticker on it,
which isn't until Christmas Eve, by the way.
Well, thank you for breaking
the international time capsule society rules for me.
Aww! Remember your ninth birthday party?
[they both laugh]
Do you remember how terrified you were
of the clowns that mom hired?
You wouldn't go near them.
No, I would not.
I'm so lucky your parents even threw me a party.
I know grandma appreciated it.
Her hands were full after mom left.
I know they loved doing it.
Ah huh!
Proof you didn't always hate Christmas PJs.
I didn't say I hated yours last night either.
Ah, look!
Our Christmas sweaters!
Ah...
Keep these out for the big day.
You were accepted to Nation York?
Yeah.
This came right after grandma died.
You stayed behind for me?
Of course I did.
I wasn't going to leave you when your grandmother just died.
And you were getting ready to enlist.
Tiff, you should have told me. I'd have told you to go.
Which is exactly why I didn't tell you.
Anyway, it doesn't matter.
It's not here.
Yeah, it's getting late.
I doubt you'll be able to get a flight out tonight.
Do you want me to set up the guest room?
Nah. A guy I served with lives in town.
I should stop in and see him.
All right.
I'll crash at his place tonight.
I'll keep looking.
I'll text you when I find it.
[Ashley on phone] Hey!
Hey.
[Ashley] You on your way yet?
Unfortunately not yet. Soon.
Wait. I thought you arrived back home this morning?
Well we did, but we got tied up at Tiffany's parents' house.
They're like family to me, so I didn't want to be rude.
Do you have a flight out tonight?
I'm still working on that.
What is going on, James?
You were supposed to be here days ago.
It's almost Christmas.
I know. I'm sorry.
Look, there's just something I need to do
before I can get there.
How much longer is it going to take?
Hopefully not long.
-[Man] Hurry up! -Be right there!
Look, they're doing the holiday turkey giveaway now,
so I have to go.
Just promise me you'll be on your way soon.
[Ashley] This is our first Christmas together.
I just want it to be special.
Yeah, me too. Just trust me, okay?
I want to be there. I will be there.
Okay.
Talk soon.
Hey! Good to see you, buddy.
Thanks for letting me crash at your place tonight.
Trouble in paradise. I get it.
Technically I have two women annoyed at me
for different reasons. So....
Two women, huh? Double trouble.
Not like that. [chuckles]
I'm planning to propose to my girlfriend this Christmas,
but my best friend has my grandmother's engagement ring.
Long story. How are you?
Good. Real good.
At first it was tough not being in active duty but
the past few months have been better.
Yeah well, what are you doing now?
I'm heading up the Veteran transition program.
Helping others find jobs and housing
and any other support groups they may need.
That's why I work here.
Lots of Vets drop by to have coffee with their buddies.
It's a good place to talk.
I'm transitioning into civilian life in the new year.
So, I could definitely use some advice.
Really. What kind of position are you looking for?
Well, I have a degree in military history so
I'd like to use it for something other than good grammar.
Good. So you saw the opening for a historian at our war museum.
You applied and you want me to put in a good word for you.
I have no idea what you're talking about.
Okay. So there's an opening
for a historian here at the war museum.
I get the updated available position list every day in case
I have someone looking for work who fits the job description.
Go apply. I'll put in a good word for you.
Thanks man, but I'll need to think about it.
I'm not sure if Ashley will want to move out here
to the Midwest.
Which one is Ashley again?
Is that the girlfriend or the best friend?
The girlfriend.
[chuckles] Got it.
Well, have a look around, at least.
We're proud of our displays.
My grandfather's medals.
Family history can help with your application.
If I decide to apply.
Aha!
I knew you weren't on board with this health kick.
I thought you were your mother.
I'm going to need something to stay quiet.
Okay.
So why are you sneaking around, hiding treats?
Listen, I know marriage is all about supporting the passions
of your partner, but I don't know how much more
of this natural sugar I can take.
[message notification]
You know, sometimes the search for lost items takes
just the right amount of time.
Hmm. Tell that to James.
Your mother and I, we met years ago
when we used to live in the same apartment building.
A few of us were decorating the courtyard Christmas tree
and your mother appeared with a box of garland.
She was wearing this beautiful red scarf
and a matching hat and gloves.
I tried to talk to her but she was so shy.
I still don't believe that mom was ever shy.
Your mom wasn't always so feisty.
But anyway, as soon as the tree was lit up, she was gone.
But I found one of her gloves in the snow.
So I went and I knocked on every apartment in that building
until I found the owner.
Cinderella.
So when I did find her,
she invited me in to taste her holiday baking.
And ever since, I have been her official taste-tester.
I love that story.
But what you didn't know is that on our wedding day, she admitted
that she had left the glove in the snow on purpose.
Because she felt our connection
and she knew that I would come find her.
Now, that sounds like mom.
You see?
Lost glove. Lost ring.
Your mother left the glove in the snow on purpose
because she knew I'd come find her.
James left that ring with you because he knew he'd have to
come back to you to get it before he married anyone else.
Good night sweetheart.
Don't stay up too late.
Good night dad.
[crunching under his feet]
Yeah.
[crunching]
Hey Elise!
Oh! Hey! Got to go!
Strength training.
If I don't move it, I lose it!
With a bag of groceries?
♪ [Elise hums a Christmas carol] ♪
[Tiffany] Good Morning.
Merry Christmas Eve!
Happy Christmas Eve.
I think Christmas Eve should have it's own greeting.
Like, hey, it's Christmas Eve!
Or whadda ya know! It's Christmas Eve!
Please tell me these have real sugar.
Sugar adjacent.
Getting better.
At least I can swallow it
and it doesn't have that lingering aftertaste.
Is that your official review?
Yep. Swallow-ability has improved.
I'll take it.
So, I looked in the new storage area. It wasn't there.
It wasn't in my bedroom, it wasn't in the shed.
Do you have any idea where else it could be?
It could be in the spare guest room closets
or maybe the desk drawer in the den.
I can't believe I can't find his grandmother's ring.
I'm sure it will turn up.
And what if it doesn't?
I wouldn't blame him if he never speaks to me again.
Not that he's going to after he gets married anyway.
Why haven't you told him how you feel?
I have no idea what you are talking about.
Oh honey.
I've seen the way you've always looked at him.
And how you've made important life decisions based on him.
And that goes deeper than friendship.
I can't just tell my best friend of twenty years
that I'm in love with him.
Why not?
For a woman as direct about her feelings on just about
everything, you've always held back when it comes to James.
Fear of losing him, I guess.
What if he doesn't feel the same way?
Well, you'll never know if you don't tell him.
Well, it's too late now.
I should keep looking.
You're on the right track.
Yeah, but what am I missing?
[door opens]
[James] Hello?
[door closes]
Why did you run away from me this morning?
What? Oh!
Was that was you?
Oh, darling, I thought it was one of those pesky kids wanting
to get me to donate recyclables to their hockey team.
If it was a better team, maybe.
Is Tiff around?
Yeah, she's searching the guest rooms and the den.
Oh wow! This is a great photo.
It was the last Christmas before you went off for basic training.
Every summer we biked up there.
And every winter,
it was the best place in the city to see the lights.
You kids used to call it your secret spot.
You thought nobody else knew.
How's the baking coming along?
Oh gosh.
I can't seem to get them to simultaneously taste good
without having that texture of chalk.
Hmm.
Hey, your grandma was a great baker.
It must have rubbed off on you. Come on, give me a hand.
Ah, no, I...
I should probably be helping Tiffany search some more.
Ah, Tiff can handle it.
Come on. Roll up your sleeves.
Okay, yeah.
Can I lick the spoon, at least?
Yes, I will let you lick the spoon.
Whoa! Jay-Jay!
[they both laugh]
That was worth keeping just to see the look on your face.
Come on. Let's go.
Okay.
Okay, what should I do next?
Hmmm.
The moment of truth.
I believe in you, Elise. You've got this!
Oh! Perfect timing.
Uh hmm.
These are good. Like, really good.
Amazing.
Yes!
That's my official review. You can publish it if you like.
Did you give up and go back to real sugar?
Nope.
I just had some unexpected help and a holiday baking miracle.
Thank you!
So. Any luck?
I'm sorry James. I looked everywhere.
[Elise] Oh look you guys.
Come watch the race and as soon as it's done, we'll come back to
the house and we'll tear it apart looking for that ring.
I promise.
What do you think?
Okay...
Okay, but I really need to be on a plane by tonight.
It's now or never, sweetheart,
while the universe is handing out holiday miracles.
James I have to tell you something.
You know where the time capsule is?
No.
What is it, Tiff? Say it.
We've been friends a long time.
Forever.
And sometimes, when two friends are really close,
it's hard to distinguish love from....
Love-love.
What I'm trying to say...
What I'm saying is...
-[loud horn sounds] -[almost inaudible] I love you.
What?
I didn't hear you.
Ah... Never mind.
Ashley?
Yes, I know! You have to get back to Ashley.
No, Ashley. Over there.
[loudly, warning] Ashley!
Ashley, are you okay?
What are you doing here?
I came to surprise you.
It doesn't matter where we spend the holidays
as long as we're together.
Hi.
I'm Ashley.
Right. Introductions.
Ashley, this is my...
Friend, Tiffany.
Hi.
What are you doing here?
James said that you were spending Christmas on base.
What a great surprise! Welcome to our home town.
It's so lovely to meet you. I've heard so much about you.
Likewise.
It's been like Ashley this and Ashley that...
And I can't wait to get to Ashley.
And Ashley, Ashley, Ashley!
[embarrassed laughter]
Oh, that's sweet.
I didn't realize how cold it would be here.
I don't think I packed anything suitable for this weather.
If you want to grab some warmer clothes,
there are plenty of shops along Main street.
Yeah. If we're going to be stuck here for Christmas,
that's probably a good idea.
Will you come shopping with me?
Me?
I could use a female opinion. This guy thinks camo is a color.
[laughs heartily] Guilty there.
Pffff... What was that noise?
My laugh.
Since when?
I can tag along.
No. No way.
This will be my opportunity to get all the insider info on you.
Okay, I thought you wanted to spend Christmas Eve with me.
There will be plenty of time for that tonight.
I checked into the B & B on Oak Street and I'll call around
to see if we can get some last minute dinner reservations.
All right.
You guys can't have Christmas Eve dinner at a restaurant.
Oh Tiffany, that's so sweet of you!
We would love to join you and your family for dinner.
Yeah! Okay.
I'm seriously going to turn into a snowman
if we don't get out of here soon. So...
I'll see you later. Yeah?
[James] Sounds good.
All right! Well, have fun.
And I guess I'll see you both later then.
Oh boy!
Hey.
Hey!
You came to apply for the job!
Not yet.
I just needed somewhere to go to decompress.
What's going on?
Still no luck finding the ring and now Ashley's in town.
Ashley's the girlfriend?
Yes.
Why is that a bad thing?
Because she's shopping with Tiffany.
The best friend?
Yeah.
But you and Tiffany are just friends, right?
Yes...
But things have somehow gotten complicated.
Complicated how?
I had feelings for Tiffany for a very long time.
Okay.
Over time, I learned to push them down
because they were never reciprocated.
But earlier today, I don't know, there was a...
A thing, a spark or a connection, or something.
Maybe. I think.
What about Ashley?
A life with Ashley makes sense. She understands this life.
Just because Tiffany doesn't have a military background
doesn't mean that she can't empathize with.
Or what you're going through. Or will go through.
You're not helping.
Listen, lots of service members are afraid about
the transition into civilian life.
Afraid of losing the family and the camaraderie
that they've had within the military.
The support system.
You think I want to marry Ashley as some sort of safety net?
Only you can answer that.
All I can tell you is that
you won't be alone in this, whatever you decide.
I have a lot to think about and
maybe I need to take more time to do that.
You're making a lot of life changes all at once.
Maybe take a breather.
You're right. We've only been together for six months.
There's really no need to rush to propose.
Thanks, man.
No problem.
[big sigh] Think I'll add relationship counselor
to my job description.
Would you like anything?
No, thank you.
I should probably bring something back for James.
I feel kind of bad for abandoning him.
Hi! Can I get two...
Two...
Let me guess.
Two peppermint mochas?
Yes. That's perfect. How did you know?
I'm really really good at my job.
James hates peppermint.
And caffeine in the afternoon makes him jittery.
Oh. I guess, in that case, just one peppermint mocha and uh...
A decaf latte, extra foam, extra hot, please.
Sure.
One peppermint mocha and one decaf latte.
Keep the change.
You know so much about him.
I've known him forever.
He's different around you.
Different how?
I don't know. He just has a different energy around you.
Comfortable familiarity that's all.
You two have been best friends since elementary school, right?
Yeah, we met in recess detention.
What?
I was in trouble for writing a critical review
of the English teacher's expected choice of reading
instead of a review of the actual book.
And James had gotten into a fight with an older kid
for bullying a first grader.
That sounds like James.
He's always had a protective streak.
I mean, that's why he insisted on driving home with you.
He didn't like the idea of you driving alone on the highway.
He's just so considerate.
That's James.
I bet you have a lot of great stories
from when you two were kids.
If you need any funny ones for the wedding,
I'm your girl.
Wedding?
Wait, is James going to propose?
Is that what all of this has been about?
Oh, ah, I don't know...
Maybe.
Such a relief!
I feel really foolish right now for being so jealous of you.
Jealous of me?
You were all James talked about overseas.
For a long time, I thought maybe he was in love with you.
And then this road trip home during the holidays.
I just... [laughs]
Don't worry.
I'll still act surprised when he pops the question.
I have to get something else, so I'll see you later.
Oh. Okay. Bye!
-Hey! -Hey!
Decaf latte, extra hot with extra foam.
Just give me a sec.
[James] Tiff! Wait up!
Tiff, wait up!
I'm going to find the ring.
I won't stop searching until I find it.
Actually, I was thinking...
I can wait on the proposal.
I just want you to enjoy this time with your parents and
whenever you find the ring, it's fine.
Thanks for the coffee.
Wait, what?
But you said her family tradition
is to propose on Christmas. This was a big deal.
I know, but you were right.
It's only been six months and what Ashley really wants
is to spend the holidays with her family, so...
Ah, that may not be all she wants anymore.
What are you taking about?
I may have let slip that you're going to propose.
You what?
I know! It was an accident.
I just said something about a wedding and then she inferred.
Kind of like how she inferred her invite to dinner tonight.
She does that a lot. And I talk a lot.
I can't believe this.
You were going to propose an hour ago. What changed?
Besides the fact that I don't have a ring?
I said I'll find it, Jay-Jay.
Well, I guess you don't have any other choice now.
Do we?
[both together] Ugh!
[James] Hey!
I'm sorry about that.
That's okay.
Even in this warmer coat, I am still freezing.
I have no idea how people live in cold places.
I don't know. It doesn't truly feel like Christmas
being surrounded by sand and palm trees.
Oh, give me a fake pine smell and that yule log
in the fireplace loop on the TV and I'm all set.
Are you happy I came?
Yeah. Yes. Yeah.
I do feel bad you're missing time with your family though.
Oh, it's okay. They understand.
And I know I've been pressuring you to tell me what all of this
is about, but I promise, I won't bug you anymore.
Whenever you're ready to tell me is totally fine.
Well...
Let me show you around town first.
Okay.
♪ [Elise humming a Christmas carol] ♪
[door opens, closes]
[Tiffany] Mom!
[Elise] Hey, where did you go?
I didn't see you at the finish line.
The cat's out of the bag. We need to find that ring.
What do you mean?
Ashley's here. In town.
And I accidentally let slip that James is going to propose.
What? I thought you were going to tell him how you felt.
Yes, I tried to. And then Ashley showed up
and everything kind of went in slow-motion.
And then the next thing I know, I'm helping her shop
and inviting her to our Christmas Eve dinner.
Actually, she kind of invited herself.
I can't breathe.
Okay. Slow down.
-Take a breath. -Okay.
[takes a deep breath]
James is going to murder me if I don't find that ring.
And now Ashley is expecting a Christmas proposal.
This is a nightmare.
Calm down.
Go over there. Go sit down.
Wait here.
I guess I'm going to have to hand this over.
You knew where it was this whole time?
Maybe.
Mom! James has been going out of his mind.
Ashley flew all the way here.
I just thought that if I'd give the two of you more time...
I feel bad.
Honestly I do, but I think James is making a mistake.
And I've known that boy a long time.
Well, if he is making a mistake, that's his to make.
Yes, but I'm also thinking about you.
And about your happiness.
Look, I know what it feels like to feel like you may be losing
the love of your life.
How?
Look at this kitchen.
All this holiday baking,
it's because of your dad's health.
What?
Is dad sick?
Prediabetic.
Why didn't you tell me?
We didn't want to worry you.
But last year he was really sick
and the bloodwork came back with the results, so...
But the doctor says he's doing great now
as long as he watches his sugar intake.
Well, this is different. James isn't sick, he's in love.
You risk losing him
and that pain is the same no matter what the cause.
Look, I think James is just blinded
by what he thinks he wants.
Raised by his grandparents,
he's always wanted a large family and that supportive unit.
I wish he knew he had that with us.
And he always will.
[Elise] Wow!
That is a beautiful ring.
[laughter]
Here we go!
Looks amazing.
[chatter and laughter]
James, you look so lovely.
I'm so glad you guys found the old Christmas sweaters.
[laughter]
[Ashley] Thank you so much for having us for dinner.
[Elise] Oh well, of course.
James and any friend of his is always welcome.
[Elise] So, you two met overseas, right?
[Ashley and James] Uh huh.
[James gets a message notification]
My father is his commanding officer.
I was volunteering with the peace corps at the time.
[Elise] Wow.
Well, that's so interesting.
[Frank] So noble.
It truly changed my life in more ways that I could have imagined.
And then I met James.
And I feel like nothing's been the same ever since.
Oh. Well, we love James...
I have a toast!
Huh? Okay.
Um...
To a very memorable Christmas.
[laughter, glasses clink]
[all] Cheers. Merry Christmas.
[James quietly] Cheers.
Hey.
I'm sorry I took so long to find it.
It was actually really nice
spending time here with everyone.
It was good having you home.
Well...
What do you think of her?
Ashley? She's wonderful.
[James chuckles]
That's it?
Come on! From the woman who can write a thousand words
on holiday scented cat litter?
I'm not product reviewing your girlfriend.
How about an honest opinion from my best friend?
She is refined but approachable,
she has an amazing sense of style
and a genuine openness that's hard to find.
And she loves you, which is the most important part.
You think this is the right decision?
You don't need my approval, James.
Yeah, but I'd like your support.
You know you have it.
Always.
Before at the race you were going to tell me something.
What was it?
You know, I don't even remember.
You should probably get back inside with Ashley.
My parents are probably going to make her play
Christmas charades.
♪ [sad music begins]
Are you coming inside?
Yeah, in a sec.
♪
♪ Can you feel the magic?
♪ A hint a spark electric
Okay.
♪ Pulling me into your eyes
♪ Like snowflakes floating from the sky ♪
♪ Drifting down a lullaby
♪ I'm fa la la la falling for you ♪
♪ Oh it's just a dream come true ♪
♪ Like a gift out of the blue
♪ I'm fa la la la falling for you ♪
[James V.O.] Dear Tiff,
We've been best friends for as long as I can remember.
You've never let me down and
the love that I have for you goes deeper than friendship.
I haven't had the courage to say this out loud, so
I'm doing it this way.
You see, there's a difference between love
and love-love.
I feel the second one for you.
Now, this may be a lot for you to take in.
And if you don't feel the same way, you don't have to say
anything and I'll respect your decision
and pretend this never happened.
I'll be your best friend forever and move on with my life.
But if you do feel how I feel, just let me know it, Tiff.
Write me back. Text me. Call me.
It's always been you.
Love, James.
♪ I'm fa la la la falling
♪ Into a wonderland full of bliss ♪
♪ A starlit mistletoe kiss
♪ Never have I felt like this
Whoa.
♪ It's like snowflakes floating from the sky ♪
♪ Drifting down in a lullaby
Hi.
♪
You came back.
Uh, Ashley forgot her scarf.
♪
Oh.
♪
Where were you rushing off to?
♪ I think you're fa la la la falling too ♪
I was going to find you.
[music ends]
-You were? -Yeah.
Why?
James, I'm in love with you.
I always have been.
I mean, eighth grade you got a little annoying, but
ultimately for me, it's always been you.
Why are you only telling me this now?
Because our timing has never been right.
And it is now? When I plan to propose to someone else?
Okay, so maybe it's still not the right time,
but it's either tell you now or lose you.
Tiff...
James, you can't deny that we're perfect for each other.
We've been best friends forever.
We share similar passions and similar life goals.
I know you.
I know that you want to settle down here.
And I know that you want a big family
like the one you never had.
James, choose me.
Why didn't you say something?
Why didn't you respond to my letter?
Why?
I put it in the time capsule.
You put it in the time capsule?
Well, you told me to wait to read it
and not open it right away.
Yeah, I meant wait until I left the room, Tiff.
Like wait ten minutes. Not ten years!
You should have read it!
I know.
I read it now.
♪ [sad music begins]
Do you still feel the same way?
♪ December comes before you know ♪
♪ The streetlights from the stars ♪
♪ Plans for yet another year
♪ Never went that far
I'm with Ashley now.
♪
It's too late, Tiff.
♪ The bells will ring The sky may fill with snow ♪
♪ But all that I have left to give ♪
♪ Only you will know
♪
♪ Dancing slow to a Christmas song ♪
♪
♪ Until the day is done
Hey, Ash, why do you love me?
What kind of question is that?
Because you're kind and caring and brave and adorably handsome.
But why me?
♪
Never mind.
♪
I have something to tell you.
♪
What's this?
You're leaving active duty?
I want to apply for a civilian position.
When did you decide this?
On my last tour overseas.
Why didn't you say something?
I wanted to surprise you.
Surprise me? Or afraid to tell me?
♪
Well, maybe a bit of both.
♪
I thought you were happy serving?
I am. I was, but...
♪
I want other things too, Ash.
I want a different career, a family.
You can have a family. I mean, daddy did.
You traveled around a lot.
I want to set down roots in one place.
♪
The military life is all I've known.
I've been planning a life like the one I've always had.
Traveling, seeing the world.
Being in a position of service.
♪
I'm sorry, Ash, but
I don't think I can give you the life you want.
♪
Maybe we were rushing things a little.
[sad music ends]
Yeah.
And also, you're in love with Tiffany.
Anyone can see how perfect you two are for each other.
You have a shared past.
You want the same things for your future.
I can't compete with that.
She's been in my life for as long as I can remember.
Then I don't want to stand in the way of that.
Look, I know you're a good guy and you want to do the right
thing, but maybe the right thing is what makes you happy.
And if that's Tiffany and life here in the Midwest...
Then that's what you should do.
Wow...
What about you?
I'll be fine.
Maybe I'll enlist.
But right now, I am going to head to the airport
and get out of this freezing arctic of a city.
I'm sorry for dragging you away from your family like this.
Oh. That was my impulsive decision.
Now it's time for yours.
[Ashley] See ya.
♪ [sad music begins]
♪ See you dancing
♪ Around the tree
♪ I see you laughing
♪ With family
♪
♪ Cause I've been away for the whole year ♪
♪ And you have been praying for some kind of miracle ♪
♪ To take me back home
♪ On Christmas Eve
♪
♪ It's gonna be a wonderful time of year ♪
♪
♪ It's gonna be a wonderful time of year ♪
♪
♪ It's gonna be a wonderful time of year ♪
♪
♪ It's gonna be wonderful
♪ It's gonna be
♪ A wonderful time of year
♪ It's gonna be a wonderful time ♪
♪ A wonderful time of year
[song ends]
Decadent and delicious without the guilt.
A perfect holiday treat for any family.
Hey, you did the right thing by telling him.
Yeah, a little too late.
I need some fresh air.
Think I'll head to the lookout, check out the lights.
Okay. Love you, darling.
She's back.
You're still here!
I've decided to apply for the position.
But tonight, I need your help with something else.
Name it.
Do you have any extra holiday lights?
Is this for the girlfriend?
No...
The best friend.
Come on.
♪ [music playing on radio]
♪ Snow is falling down the street ♪
♪ Lights are up replacing the leaves ♪
♪ I just wanna be outside
♪
♪ Cut a tree from our backyard
♪ Snowball fights till it gets dark ♪
♪ Warming up by the fire
♪ It's Christmas Time
♪
♪ It's Christmas Time
[James] Thought you might come here.
What are you doing here?
It's the best place in the city to see the lights.
Where's Ashley?
She went home.
It's over.
Really? Why?
Because of you.
You see me.
What do you mean?
You asked me how I knew Ashley was the one
and I couldn't answer because she wasn't the right one.
You are.
Every good memory I have includes you.
And every bad one has you standing by my side.
You've never let me down.
You've always been there for me.
But more importantly, uniquely...
You see me like no one has ever seen me before.
So, what do you say? Can I kiss my best friend?
Yeah.
You kept this safe for a decade.
Can I keep you safe for a lifetime?
Yes!
Yeah?
I love-love you, Tiff.
I love-love you too, James.
Merry Christmas.
[James] I thought we could take another road trip
after the holidays.
I think I owe you a redo.
[Tiffany] I do have to head back to LA
so I can pack my things so I can move back here.