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* Deck the halls with boughs of holly *
* Fa la la la la, la, la, la, la, la *
* Tis the season to be jolly *
* Fa la la la la la la la la *
* Don we now our gay apparel *
* Fa la la la la la la la la *
* Troll the ancient yuletide carol, *
* Fa la la la la la la la la *
I know this trip didn't work out as we hoped.
But I don't want you to be worried.
Not one bit.
Every "no" from an investor gets us one step
closer to a "yes".
I know with all my heart that Lane Cosmetics
is gonna be a big deal someday.
Thank you, sir.
There you go. You are very welcome.
Thank you very much.
I would rather spend Christmas Eve with
the people in this room...
than with the finest people I know.
[laughing]
To the town council.
[all] To the town council.
[sighs]
But for now, we're gonna take a moment to regroup
and start fresh once you're here.
I can't wait to meet you.
* Don we now our gay apparel... *
Now, for the big question.
What are we gonna name you?
What about Kate?
Kate like... oww!
[groans]
Okay.
That's a big no on Kate.
[breathing heavily]
I'm gonna get us some help.
[pleasant music]
[panicked breathing]
Sorry to barge in like this.
The snow is really coming down,
and I think I'm going into labor.
-Okay. -Okay.
Believe it or not, you've come to the right place.
I'll grab my emergency bag.
I'm doctor Austin.
Let's get you laying down so we can see what's going on.
Can you get some hot water and clean towels?
Yeah, I'm on it.
What's your name, dear?
Elizabeth.
Elizabeth Lane.
How far along are you?
A little over eight months.
The baby wasn't supposed to be here till the new year.
Oh, well... you and I know that,
but I think this baby has other plans.
Is this your first?
Yeah, it's, um... a little girl.
Alright.
All good.
[exhales]
[labored breathing]
Well...
The good news is that your little girl
is gonna be here in time for Christmas.
The even better news, I have personally delivered
over 100 babies since I started my practice.
You're working with a pro.
Deep breath. One more push.
[exhales]
That's it. That's it.
Have you given any thought to a name?
Yeah.
I was gonna go with Alex.
But, under the current circumstances...
I think I'm gonna have to go with Evie.
Evie Lane.
It's perfect.
Would it be alright if we document this special occasion?
A keepsake for when Evie is old enough to appreciate it.
Yeah, I'd like that very much.
You've all been so wonderful.
I can't imagine a better Christmas present.
[all chuckle]
Okay. Everyone say "Merry Christmas".
[all] Merry Christmas.
[camera clicks]
Let's get one more, just in case.
Okay. Always the lawyer, playing it safe.
Uh-huh. Well, you can thank me later.
[all] Merry Christmas.
[camera clicks]
I just need to do Evie's first checkup. Okay?
Okay.
Okay. Come here, sweet girl.
Hello, sweetheart.
-Okay, come on. [shushing] -[baby coos]
Okay. [shushing]
How are you doing?
It's hard to let her go.
Oh, I can't imagine.
You did so good.
[baby cooing]
I'm going to need an escort to the hospital.
The roads are still pretty bad out there.
Roy, I'll drive with you.
What?
Elizabeth, Evie may have an abdominal obstruction.
-Stay with me. -What?
You need to be strong for your baby.
I'm going to be right by your side the entire time.
I promise.
Hey, it's okay.
[baby crying]
[VO] So, instead of spending Christmas Eve at home,
with my grandma Helen, I was at a hospital
while my daughter underwent emergency surgery.
If it had happened anywhere else along the way...
I would've lost her.
Those generous, thoughtful people delivered my baby,
got us to a hospital,
and took up a collection to cover my bills.
Their support helped keep my dream alive.
And that dream became Lane Cosmetics,
a billion dollar, multinational company.
But that pales in comparison...
to my greatest success.
No.
Please stand up, sweetheart.
Everyone, please welcome my daughter, Evie,
to her first ever trailblazer talk.
-[applause] -Excuse me, sorry.
Come on up, sweetheart.
[applause]
Thanks, Mom.
On my journey, I realized that overcoming challenges
doesn't have to be a solo act.
It's a collective effort,
strengthened by the support of my friends, my daughter,
and the good people that I met on that night.
Let's be a community of support
and help each other fulfill our dreams.
Together, we will continue to shatter ceilings,
build female-driven businesses,
and create a world where every woman's voice matters.
[cheers and applause]
Thank you, Aspen.
Thank you.
So... what did you think of my trailblazer talk?
Equal parts inspiring and embarrassing.
I had no idea you were gonna talk about me.
It's only because I'm so proud of you.
I wasn't too sure after my La-La-Lane fashion-wear sales.
Well, the main thing is you were able to express yourself creatively.
Thanks, Mom.
Yeah, I do love my fashion design.
You've always been so supportive.
Well, you deserve every opportunity in the world.
Do you have time for a coffee?
Of course.
Great. I have an early birthday gift for you.
Mom, seriously, you spoil me.
Trust me, I know.
[cheerful music]
This is for you.
Mom.
A polaroid?
Taken the night you were born.
I found it last week in my old sample box.
It triggered a lot of memories, and I'll admit...
some soul searching about you, and myself as a parent.
You've been an incredible mother.
I say this to you with nothing but love.
I have always done what I thought was best for you.
But you've been spoiled.
Spoiled?
No, I'm just well-cared for.
You're almost 35, and you still depend on your mother.
That is spoiled.
I didn't realize it was a problem,
you've never said anything.
It isn't a problem.
I just worry that in trying to give you
a better life than I had, I've given you too good a life.
I protected you from reality.
You don't know what it's like to be around normal people
doing normal things.
I need you to prove that you are ready to handle
the responsibility that comes
with the fortune you stand to inherit.
Mom...
I want you to experience what I experienced.
I want you to find out who the people are in this photo
and try to repay their kindness.
Why would they even care? They're strangers to me.
Their willingness to help this stranger in need
is the reason you're alive today.
Why not build them a library or a school or something?
You know, make a big to-do? Get some press for the brand.
This isn't about me or the brand.
This is about you understanding where you came from.
And meeting the good people that are responsible
for the blessed lives we lead.
I have made your rewarding their kindness a condition.
Precedent to you taking charge of your trust fund.
Seriously?
This will explain all the rules,
including using an alias.
While in Brookswood,
you must keep your true identity hidden.
All to be completed before midnight on Christmas Eve.
On my birthday? You've gotta be kidding me?!
You're going to have to give to get.
Mom, this is crazy.
This could be some wild goose chase.
Trust me, it won't be.
You are kind-hearted and you are generous,
but you never follow through with anything.
I'm hoping this will properly motivate you.
It... Do you even know if these people are still alive?
If you fail to meet the deadline,
your trust fund will become forfeit
to a charity of my choosing.
I feel like I'm being punished.
Quite the opposite.
You have an obligation to use your good fortune
to promote the well-being of others,
not just to support your own lifestyle.
The act of giving is a powerful tool.
It spreads kindness and makes a difference in this world.
The town that you were born in
seems to me the best place for you to start.
Now, I know this is difficult...
but as a parent, the greatest gift I can bestow upon you
is faith in your own potential.
[groans]
[deep breath]
[cheerful music]
The Four Seasons it is not. Hmm.
There she is.
Welcome to Brookswood. I'm Mrs. King.
Owner, sole proprietor, chief cook and bottle washer.
Thank you. Uh... checking in.
The name is... Mary.
Mary Dawson.
Booked through Christmas Day.
I'm not sure how long I'll actually be staying.
I'm eager to wrap up my visit as soon as possible.
Oh, are you here for business or pleasure?
Oh, definitely not for pleasure.
We're gonna have to do something to fix that.
These are our sign-off sheets.
We have all kinds of crafting and other festive holiday fun
going on around here for the next few weeks.
Oh, I'm sure they're wonderful.
I just don't expect I'll have much free time while I'm here.
Well, why not sign off anyway.
Just in case?
Oh, they're very popular
and they do tend to fill up quickly.
I wouldn't want you to miss out.
I'll tell you what. I'll be sure to think on it,
and if I change my mind, you'll be the first to know.
All free of charge.
Just a little something
to make your stay with us more memorable.
I'm certain my visit will be something I won't soon forget.
I'll need your credit card for incidentals.
Actually, I will have the company call in
a credit card number.
Sure.
Whatever works.
Suite number six.
Thank you.
I just knew you would change your mind.
No, I haven't changed my mind.
I just thought of something
you might be able to help me with.
I'm in need of an attorney.
There seems to be only one listed in Brookswood.
A Kyle Newman?
That's right.
Is he any good?
Oh, the best. A real fighter.
After my husband passed,
I didn't think I could keep the B&B going on my own.
Kyle petitioned the state to grant us historical status.
Oh, they made him jump through so many hoops,
but he never backed down.
It came with a huge relief on the property taxes.
Great. Thank you.
He's also Brookswood's most eligible bachelor.
Oh.
We held a contest.
I was one of the judges.
[chuckles dryly]
Of course you were.
Well, I will keep that in mind.
Thanks.
[upbeat cheerful music]
[camera clicks]
I wonder what that's all about.
You're not putting this place up for sale, are you, Jack?
[chuckles] Make me an offer.
You couldn't give this place away.
[chuckles]
Paul, be nice. It's Christmas time.
Maybe she's one of those tourism influencers.
I would hate for this place to become a culinary hot spot.
[men chuckle]
Well, there she goes.
She did not buy that outfit here.
[serene music]
This can't be right.
Hmm.
Do you know where I could find a Kyle Newman?
Wow.
...you guys are going to win, whatever team.
That is... one eligible bachelor.
Uh... hello there. Are you Kyle? Kyle Newman?
Oh... you gotta be kidding me. Uh... alright, boys. [claps]
Look, I already told you on the phone,
we can't give up any more rink time.
We're barely getting two practices a week as it is.
I'm afraid you have me confused with someone else.
Are you not Mrs. Carter?
The coach of the figure skating team?
My name is Mary Dawson and I'm in need of an attorney.
Oh.
Sorry. My apologies.
Uh...
Let me just finish up my hockey practice
and then we can move on to my law practice.
Alright?
Hm.
Hey! Sorry about that.
Can I get you something from the snack bar?
The coffee's not much to write home about,
but the hot chocolate is fantastic.
This isn't your law office, is it?
Yeah, I like to keep the overhead low
so I can pass on the savings to my clients.
I'm not exactly in the market for discount legal services.
Well, I can assure you that I am the best lawyer
that Brookswood has to offer.
You are the only lawyer in Brookswood.
I stand by my statement of the facts.
Now...
why do you need a lawyer? Hmm?
Wrongful injury, traffic court?
I am in Brookswood on behalf of the Lane family,
of Lane Cosmetics.
I've never heard of them.
Lane Cosmetics. Founded by Elizabeth Lane.
It's a billion-dollar multinational company.
Wow.
I'll have to take your word for it, I don't know.
I would like to enlist your services
in order to locate these four people in the photo.
For what purpose?
To reward them for saving the life of a little girl,
who was born in the diner on Christmas Eve, 35 years ago.
I remember this story when I was a kid.
The woman in the photo holding the baby is Elizabeth Lane.
The founder of Lane Cosmetics.
I have been tasked with locating the other four people
in the photo in order to fulfill their Christmas wish.
To fulfill their Christmas wish?
Yep.
[small chuckle]
Forgive my skepticism, it may just be the lawyer in me,
but this whole thing just seems a bit far-fetched to be real.
[chuckles]
Notarized documents from the Lane Family Foundation
to verify this is indeed for real.
[whistles]
Wow, this is as complicated
a list of conditions as I've ever seen.
Ms. Lane is well-known for her unconventional way
of doing things.
And why are you here... instead of Ms. Lane?
The Lane Family Foundation seeks to increase the amount of
kindness in the world without the need for recognition.
And if the recipients were made aware of our involvement,
greed, inevitably, would impede the true spirit
of our endeavor.
Mm.
Listen, the people of Brookswood are a humble bunch.
They helped this young woman
because it was the right thing to do,
not because they wanted anything in return.
Now, I'm sure your intentions are good,
but this just seems like a case of misplaced generosity.
Mr. Newman...
Kyle.
Please, call me Kyle.
Kyle, I'm not asking for your permission.
I am asking for your guidance
on the legal aspects of the endeavor.
Transfer of properties, gift taxes, what have you.
And as selfless as you claim the people of Brookswood to be,
it has been my experience that everyone,
absolutely everyone, has a price.
[both chuckle dryly]
Not everyone, Ms. Dawson.
I'd like to thank you for your interest in my services,
but unfortunately, at this time,
I'm not gonna be able to take you on as a client.
[scoffs]
Hey!
Walking away from the bargaining table
is a childish negotiation tactic.
I'm not negotiating. I don't wanna work with you.
Why? Give me one good reason.
Because this whole thing seems like some harebrained,
reverse scavenger hunt, designed by rich people.
[scoffs] Oh, I see.
You take issue with philanthropy,
as well as general acts of kindness and gratitude
at Christmas time.
You, sir... are a Grinch.
Are you this delightful with everybody,
or do I bring out the best in you?
You know what?
I can name everybody in that photo, free of charge.
That way, you can be on your merry way
and not have me involved at all.
The fact you're willing to do that
tells me you're exactly the person I need.
Someone I can trust,
someone who knows the town and its people.
Besides, what's the worst that could happen?
You're right, maybe some good can come out of this.
But there could also be some unintended consequences.
Money and gratitude don't always go hand in hand.
There is a condition on the gifts,
stating that they must be personal,
and relate to something that really matters
to the recipient.
Doesn't necessarily mean just throwing money around.
Alright.
Okay, fine. You're right, Mary.
Congratulations. You've got yourself a lawyer.
Terrific.
I'd like to get going as soon as possible.
Who do we start with?
Well, easy.
We don't just roll into town and ask people
what their deepest desires are.
Alright? We gotta go slowly.
We gotta find a way to integrate you into the town.
Sounds like you have some sort of plan.
Care to share?
Yeah.
Let's first start with your approachability.
How do you feel about a make-under?
[scoffs]
I absolutely do not need a makeover.
[chuckles]
I didn't say makeover.
A make-under.
[pleasant music]
Well, you know what they say.
When in Rome.
So... Mary.
What's your background?
Not exactly sure what you're asking me.
How did you get involved with the Lane Foundation?
I'm very close with the daughter, Evie Lane.
You could say we're inseparable.
How about school?
Where did you go to college?
I went to several different colleges.
Several?
Did you major in mischief?
[small chuckle] No, nothing like that.
I just get excited about something,
and once I get into the day-to-day of it,
I find out it's not for me.
Anyway. Tell me about you.
How did you end up being the one lawyer
in this one-lawyer town?
Well, I, uh...
I went...
I went to law school at the University of Virginia.
Hm. It's a top 10 law school, isn't it?
Yes, it is.
And I, uh...
I did quite well, if I do say so myself.
I could've signed with any law firm I wanted to
in the country after I graduated.
Huh. Why didn't you?
Because I was loyal to Brookswood.
When I didn't have the resources
to pay for my tuition, everyone pulled together
and helped fund a scholarship for me.
So, I wanted to give back.
Provide good legal services to this town.
Very noble endeavor.
Similar to the Lane family wanting to give back,
due to the generosity that was shown to them.
Don't you think?
So... why law?
My father, actually.
Best person I've ever known.
Hm.
I wanted to be just like him.
He told me that to be an officer of the court,
you have to hold yourself to the highest ethical standard.
He had this saying.
You should engage in anything that you don't wanna read about
on the front page of the New York Times.
Like winning the title
of Brookswood's most eligible bachelor?
I see somebody's been gossiping with Mrs. King.
She did the gossiping, I did the listening.
Well... what do you think?
It's just what I was afraid of.
Despite trying to dress you down, you...
you look terrific.
We'll just do the best we can.
Great.
Are you sure you got it, do you want a hand?
Oh... sure.
Thank you.
Uh... listen, if you don't have any plans tonight,
I'd like to take you to dinner.
Oh, um... well...
I'm flattered, truly flattered.
But I'd prefer to keep things between us
on a professional basis.
[scoffs]
I wasn't asking you out.
It's a working dinner.
Of course.
Yeah, working dinner. Yes.
Great.
And I can try out my new look.
Great.
*
* See the snow fall on your shoes *
* ...those winter blues. *
* all the yuletide spirit's high *
What?
Don't let the appearance deceive you,
the food here is excellent.
Better than the snack bar?
You know, the owner went to culinary school in Paris.
You're making that up.
Highest ethical standard. Remember?
I guess I'll just have to take your word for it.
That's the woman that was taking pictures earlier.
Yeah, Mrs. King says her name's Mary Dawson.
Doesn't know much else about her just yet but, uh...
says she's here on business.
I'll go spy.
No, no! You stay right where you are.
Kyle's obviously here on a date.
He wouldn't bring her here on a date
unless he never wants to see her again.
You're a bad man, Paul.
[laughing]
Pull up that picture on your phone.
Yeah.
See... that's Jack Marshall.
Owner of the diner 35 years ago.
And that's Jack Marshall,
owner of the diner, present day.
A working dinner.
Yeah.
Hmm. [chuckles]
Evening, Kyle.
Hey, Jack. Um... I want you to meet Mary Dawson.
I think I saw you earlier taking pictures of the diner.
Uh... Mary and I are old friends
and she's here from New York to help me with a project.
Welcome to Brookswood, Mary. Your first meal is on me.
Oh, please, you don't have to do that.
Take the offer!
As soon as you taste the food,
you're never gonna wanna pay for it.
Don't mind Paul.
I insist.
Okay. Well, what do you consider your signature dish?
Chicken pot pie.
Great. I'll have that.
When in Rome.
Usual for you?
Yes, sir.
Yeah, I don't know.
I would've preferred a cover story with a little more flair.
Really?
Maybe then you should've mentioned
that little sightseeing tour you did before you hired me.
Wait a minute.
You just flat out lied to him about who I am,
Mr. "highest ethical standard".
Okay, wait. Another rule of law passed down by my father.
You can bend the law, you just can't break the law.
Hmm.
Is there anything else I should know before we proceed?
Probably.
What?
Nice, clean plate. I like that.
You must've been really hungry.
Guilty as charged.
I was actually telling Mary here
about some of the stories around the town.
Do you remember the one about
the little girl that was born here on Christmas Eve?
Do I? I remember it like it was yesterday.
So, listen.
We were having a small gathering here.
It was the unofficial town council.
There was a young mother driving home
to spend Christmas with her family.
She went into an early labor on the road.
Kate Austin, that's our town doctor,
delivered that little girl right here in this diner.
The doc realized there was some kind of a problem,
so Roy and Claire, that's our fire chief and our sheriff,
rushed them to the hospital.
Surgery saved that little girl's life.
That's... that's some story.
And when you think about it,
if that young mother had gone anywhere else,
who knows what would have happened.
Now, if that isn't a genuine Christmas miracle...
I don't know what is.
A lovely story made even better by a wonderful meal.
My compliments to the chef.
My pleasure.
Come again any time.
Uh... you want those potatoes?
Yeah, no, still working.
Well, the good news is that the rest of the people
in that photograph still live here in Brookswood.
Okay, good. Finish up. Let's get moving.
Huh? Oh, no, no, no. There's no rush.
It's... it's pretty late.
Things move a bit slower here than in New York.
How soon do you think we could connect with them?
Uh...I got a pretty good idea where we can find Roy Garland,
the fire chief, so...
Why don't we meet tomorrow afternoon?
Wow. That is... that is slow.
Yeah, well, you'll get used to it.
[chuckles]
[upbeat Christmas music]
Well... welcome to our annual tradition.
This is the Christmas tree jamboree.
This is quite the operation.
Who fits the bill for all this?
It's all volunteers.
Ah, here's the king of volunteers right here.
Roy Garland. How you doing?
Great. You?
Roy, I want you to meet somebody.
This is Mary Dawson.
Mary is gonna be working with me up until Christmas.
Oh, welcome, Mary.
This is impressive.
Oh, it's getting there.
We'll have everything up on its feet by the weekend
for the grand opening.
Hey, Roy. Um...
just wondering, does Santa have his elf yet?
He does not. Did you have someone in mind?
Oh, I was just thinking that Mary here would be
a good candidate.
I could not agree more.
Oh..., well, uh...
You know, I... I might be under-qualified.
Yeah, 'cause I don't have any previous elven experience, so...
I'll teach you everything you need to know.
It's all about being friendly, cheerful, upbeat, and positive.
Even when there's an overexcited five-year-old
kicking you in the shins
with all of his tiny but powerful might.
How could I say no? Seriously. How?
There we go.
Nice, huh?
Yeah. Yeah, it's very... Christmassy.
You know what?
Maybe I'll just order my own.
That way it's my size.
Okay, well... suit yourself.
[laughs]
It's only for a few nights and starts on Friday.
Great. Can't wait.
-Nice to meet you. -See ya.
Hey, uh... counselor.
Next time you volunteer me for something else,
just give me a heads up first.
What are you talking about?
I'm doing exactly what I was hired to do.
This way, you're gonna be able to blend in,
and you might even get an inside track
on what Roy wants for his Christmas wish.
You know, I think that we're doing pretty well.
You've already met two of the people in the photograph,
and you just got here yesterday.
I think you hired the right guy.
I sometimes have difficulty
seeing the forest for the trees.
Well, I have a deadline on another contract
with another client, so uh...
I have to take off. But maybe I'll see you later?
Sure. Yeah.
I still have some more exploring to do.
-Oh. -Hmm.
Have fun.
[sighs]
[door bell jingles]
Slow day?
Well, it's always kinda quiet after the lunch rush.
Nice tree.
Can I help decorate?
Far be it from me to turn down some free labor.
I'll even make you a cup of cheer for your efforts
after we're done.
Deal.
What's a cup of cheer?
Oh, you're gonna love it, and if you don't love it, well..
you can't beat the price.
[both chuckle]
You know...
when Kyle asked me about the story of the little girl,
it got me to thinking...
...about that night.
We take photos of special people
who are passing through the diner during the holidays,
and we make those photos into Christmas ornaments.
I thought this one might have a particular significance.
You look just like your mom.
[sighs]
You got me. I am, in fact, Evie Lane.
[chuckles]
What gave me away?
Striking family resemblance.
Also, the pendant you're wearing is the same one
your mom was wearing that night.
So, what brings you back to Brookswood?
It's a long story.
Perfect. I love long stories.
[laughs]
Come have a seat.
Here you go.
I'm not sure if you know, but my mother has become
quite the well-known entrepreneur.
Oh, well, good for her.
I remember chatting with her about her business plan
when you were in the hospital.
Really?
Yeah, I could tell she had a real passion for it.
Yes, she is a very passionate lady.
Right now, her passion is sending me here
in an effort to reward all the people
who helped us the night I was born.
You don't owe us anything. We were happy to help.
Oh, well, tell that to my mother.
She insists I have an obligation
to use my good fortune
to promote the well-being of others,
not just support my own lifestyle.
So, why the secret identity?
Well, whenever I get to know new people,
it's hard for me to tell if they like me for me
or just my money.
The plan was to get to know everyone without preconception,
perform some anonymous acts of kindness,
and then vanish without anyone knowing why I was here.
Does Kyle know who you are?
He knows me as Mary Dawson.
Kyle's pretty sharp.
I think he's gonna figure it out sooner rather than later.
I will cross that bridge when I come to it.
Mmm!
That's delicious.
Old Marshall family recipe.
Wow.
Tell me what I can do to help you.
Do you have a Christmas wish?
I have absolutely everything I need right here.
Okay, well, maybe you don't need anything,
but there must be something you've always wanted.
Please, indulge me. Think big!
I have an unlimited bank account.
Make it the biggest Christmas wish
you could possibly imagine.
My mother knows a lot of very influential people.
Maybe we could, I don't know, create an opportunity for you
to do something you never had a chance to do.
Like take a trip or learn to play piano
from a concert pianist.
Oh! Open a cup of cheer coffee stand in Times Square.
Maybe when I've known you a little longer,
you can pry it out of me.
Well, you've known me since the day I was born.
[chuckles]
You're a sharp one, too.
I take after my mother. Sometimes more than I realize.
Okay, let me think on it.
I promise you I will keep your secret identity a secret.
But, here. This is for you.
What is this?
Early birthday present.
You tuck that away.
No, no, no. Don't open it now.
Not now.
[VO] Anyone born in my diner
is entitled to free meals for life.
Signed, Jack Marshall.
Why does this town have to be the nicest place on Earth?
*
* There's a bit of cold with a chance of snow... *
So, I hear you're gonna be Santa's elf at the jamboree.
Wow, news travels fast in this town.
Telephone, television, tell-a-local.
I just knew you couldn't avoid having some fun
while you were here.
You were absolutely right.
* ...it's Christmas, everyone's together *
Gingerbread 57.
-I repeat, Gingerbread 57. -Oh.
Nutcracker 32.
I repeat, Nutcracker 32.
Nativity 41. I repeat, Nativity 41.
Bows of holly, 12.
Are you close?
*
Bingo!
Oh! We have a winner!
Mary wins the final prize of the night.
Congratulations!
* ...it's Christmas, it's Christmas. *
Wow. A holiday gift sampler.
From Lane Cosmetics.
Oh, you hit the jackpot, honey.
Look at all the samples you get.
*...because it's Christmas *
[phone ringing]
[groans]
Nobody I know would call me this early.
Not a morning person, I'll put that in my log.
What log? Who is this?
This is Kyle.
Your lawyer, Kyle. Kyle Newman.
You'd better have a good reason for this wake-up call.
Well, I'm just calling to let you know that Dr. Austin
always eats breakfast at 7:30 at the diner.
So?
So... she's quite busy.
So, unless you want to fake a medical emergency,
this might be our only way to get face-to-face with her.
How life-threatening would it have to be?
It's not on the table, I was being facetious.
Can we do this when I'm a little more put together?
Why, were you up all night playing Christmas bingo?
Ugh, this town.
You know what they say. Early bird gets--
Don't you dare finish that sentence.
What about carpe diem? You snooze, you lose.
Uh...
first come, first served.
Fine, you win. No more cliches. I will be there ASAP.
[phone ringing]
Hello?
Just calling to make sure you didn't fall back asleep.
You're annoying in the morning.
Some call it being helpful.
[chuckles] Oh, this rock star does not need any help.
See you in five.
-[tires screech] -[car horn honking]
Oh, no, no, no, no, no.
[siren chirps]
Oh!
[knocking]
[chuckles nervously]
[exhales]
Good morning.
You backed up without checking your rear view, huh?
I did. I did. I am terribly, terribly sorry.
And you were driving while on your cell phone?
Yeah.
Yeah, I was.
Wait a minute. Are you Sheriff Bedford?
Indeed I am.
Oh, it's so great to meet you.
I'm E-- err...
Mary. Mary Dawson.
You sure about that?
Yep. Yep, that's me. [laughs nervously]
Aren't you Kyle's friend?
I am, yes.
Actually, I'm headed to meet him at the diner right now, so.
How's your day going so far?
Quiet morning until you almost smashed into me.
Yeah. Again, I am...
I'm terribly, terribly sorry.
I'm normally a really, really good driver.
So, um... what happens now?
Do I... do I get a ticket, pay a fine?
I'm what you would call a three-strike sheriff.
Oh.
One strike for almost hitting me.
Right.
Two strikes for the cell phone.
Mm.
So I'm gonna let you off with a warning.
I just need to see your license for the record.
Yes, of course.
Whoo.
*
I am terribly sorry, Sheriff, but I only just realized
that I don't have my license with me this morning.
Unfortunately, that's three strikes.
So... is that bad?
[camera flash whines]
No smiling, ma'am.
[lock clicks]
Hey. Missed you at the diner.
This is not funny, not funny at all.
Cup of cheer, compliments of Jack.
Everyone around town knows I was arrested, don't they?
Oh yeah. What were you doing driving without a license?
Must have accidentally left it behind in New York.
Well, don't worry about it,
you're being released on your own recognizance.
And as your lawyer,
instead of a fine, I got you community service.
Community service?
Yeah.
It's gonna be fine. It's easy.
Come on, I'll drive.
Well, on the plus side,
you're gonna be supervised by Sheriff Bedford,
so it's gonna give you a chance to fish
for some information.
I have to give you credit where credit's due.
I'd rather have cash or check
when it comes time to tally up your bill.
I was trying to pay you a compliment.
You seem to find the silver lining in every situation.
Thanks.
Appreciate that.
Sheriff!
Got a repeat offender over here.
Please don't call me that.
Ms. Dawson.
Kyle.
Nice of you to give our repeat offender a lift.
My pleasure.
Can we just call me a, I don't know, volunteer?
[all laugh]
Kyle, before you leave,
we have to discuss your parking tickets.
Oh, well, the... meter was broken, so...
I think we can let that one go.
There was 16 of them.
So... how about a little community service?
16? Wow.
Welcome to the Brookswood Christmas swap meet.
[laughs]
No cash transactions, only trades.
Something we set up for the community, so that everyone
has access to anything they need during the holiday season.
This is really a terrific idea.
Well, what's our part in it?
I am deputizing you both as peace officers.
[Evie giggles]
Our job is to keep the peace and facilitate the trades.
Some of the transactions can get a little heated,
so it's best to have adult supervision
should anyone get a little unruly.
Oh, here. I can take your coat.
-Thank you. -Yeah.
So... how long have you been sheriff... Sheriff?
[chuckles]
Coming up on 36 years now.
36 years? Wow, that's longer than I've been alive.
Well, at this point in my life,
I've come to favor experience over youth.
Have you lived in Brookswood all your life?
Mm-hmm.
Born and raised.
Were you always interested in being the sheriff?
You ask a lot of questions.
Are you doing a true crime podcast or something?
Oh, no, I'm just making friendly conversation.
Serving in law enforcement
has been a time-honored tradition in my family.
My great-great-grandfather was the first lawman here
over 200 years ago.
Wow, 200 years. That's... that's impressive.
Well, sadly, the family line of law enforcement ends with me.
I'm sure you can find a way
to keep your family's name alive somehow.
I hope so.
-[woman] Hi Sheriff. -Hi.
[both chuckle]
[Instrumental Christmas tune]
*
Job well done.
We've managed an entire day at the swap meet
with only one outbreak of overly aggressive haggling.
Thank you.
Good job.
[laughing]
Hey.
See something you like?
Yeah.
Huh.
My dad used to make these when I was a kid.
Wow.
I don't have anything to trade for it, though.
Bracelet for the jar?
Seems fair.
Oh, that... that looks expensive.
Oh, no, it's costume jewelry. Can't be worth more than $100.
Thank you.
That was really nice.
I'll pay you back.
No cash transactions.
You'll have to trade it for something of equal value later.
Okay.
Thank you.
Thank you!
That was a really fun afternoon.
Maybe I should get in trouble more often
so I can do some more community service.
I was joking.
[laughing]
Just a joke.
People tend to take volunteering
very seriously around here.
They value time over money.
The most valuable resource anyone can give of themselves.
That's a lovely thought. Thank you again, Sheriff.
Kyle, drive safe.
And Mary... try to stay out of trouble
for the rest of your trip.
[laughs] I will, I promise.
-Bye-bye. -Bye.
Hey, what do you think about having
a monument made for the Sheriff?
In honor of her and her family.
I think that's a great idea.
Yeah?
Yeah, I think it's very thoughtful.
Hey, you went to high school here, didn't you?
Uh, yeah. Yeah, I did.
Any of these trophies yours?
Uh... yeah, actually.
That one right there.
2006 state spelling bee champion.
Pretty impressive, huh?
I-M-P-R-E-S-S-I-V-E. Impressive.
[laughs]
Almost as impressive as you being
the Brookswood's most eligible bachelor.
Yes, well...
It's gonna haunt me for a while.
Although, truth be told, my practice does well.
Just not well enough to settle down
and have a family just yet.
What if you won the lottery?
What if you didn't have to work to earn a living?
Well, then I'd have a whole new set of problems.
Might have to find somebody who loves me for me
and not for all my money.
You know what I mean?
Yeah.
Yeah, I know exactly what you mean.
Hey, Kyle.
Yeah?
There's something about me I want you to know.
Okay.
How's it going?
Hey! What's up, doc?
How is Brookswood's favorite son
doing this fine evening?
Very well. Very good.
Dr. Kate, I'd like you to meet somebody.
This is Mary Dawson.
It's a pleasure to meet you.
What are you doing here?
Just paying a house call to Evelyn.
Evelyn?
Mrs. King.
And it's freezing out here. Why don't we go inside?
-Yeah. -Yeah.
Hello!
You are all just in time to join us.
What are you working on?
Christmas gift bags for some of the kids in town.
You are my last visit for the day,
so I can stay for a while.
But first, let's do our checkup.
Uh... check up? Is everything okay?
Just have to monitor my blood pressure.
Nothing too serious.
Why don't you two team up?
Why not? That sounds like fun.
Good. Let me take your coats.
Thank you.
-Have fun you two. -Yeah.
No witty pushback?
I've reached the "if you can't beat 'em,
join 'em" stage of my visit.
Surrendered to the festivities.
Oh, there's some really nice things here.
Oh! [laughs]
Do you know, does Mrs. King pay for all this herself?
You know, I'm actually a little curious about that myself.
I'll have to ask her.
Alright, well, I will handle the decorating.
You fill the bags when they're ready.
Yes, ma'am.
So, why did the doctor refer to you
as Brookswood's favorite son?
Uh... well, um...
I was raised by my dad...
until he died when I was a teenager.
I'm so sorry to hear that.
I was raised by my mom.
I just... I can't imagine being on my own at that age.
Well, you see, that's the thing, though. I never...
I never felt like I was on my own.
Jack...
Roy, Claire, the doc. I mean, they all...
came together... and they raised me.
I mean, Mrs. King and her husband,
they were my legal guardians until I was an adult.
Brookswood really is a special place, isn't it?
I mean, it is to me.
The people here, they just...
they look out for each other.
I mean, take the doc, for instance.
She's had her practice here for 40 years. Solo.
Just her?
Yeah, just her.
I mean, she could've gone off and made a fortune
working at some big city hospital.
But she decided to stay here.
Bandage up kids' scraped knees, console families.
Deliver babies in snowstorms.
I couldn't imagine this place without her.
I couldn't agree more.
I think we did it.
Yeah.
Yeah, looks good.
Wow.
It's gonna be a few lucky kids who get those.
Do you think you have it in you to make a few more?
Sure. It's kinda fun, actually.
Why not?
Evelyn, I wanted to ask you,
where do you get the toys and supplies for these bags?
Oh, Brookswood has its very own Secret Santa.
Really?
Oh. Did you, uh... did you know about this?
No, I didn't.
This is the first I'm hearing about it.
Well, that's 'cause it's a secret.
We don't like to broadcast it, but every year, December 1st,
all unpaid pediatric bills are suddenly paid.
And we get a shipment of toys and other goodies to share
with the local kids.
Mm-hmm.
Do you have any idea who the Secret Santa is?
We have our suspicions,
but, you know, we don't wanna really look into it.
Why not?
We don't wanna do anything to spoil the magic.
Well, we said we were gonna do a few more, so, uh...
I'll grab 'em.
Great.
[upbeat cheerful music]
[indistinct chatter]
[camera clicks]
[phone ringing]
It's Evie.
Excuse me.
Hello, my darling daughter.
Uh... hey, Mom.
Quick question.
Are you the Brookswood Secret Santa?
Brookswood has a Secret Santa?
Unpaid pediatric hospital bills completely paid off
in the month of December.
Anonymous toy deliveries.
Sounds like you've been in touch with Dr. Austin.
Wait. Wait a minute.
You told me you didn't know
who the people were in the photo.
No, I told you I needed you to find out who they are
in order to reward their kindness.
Okay, what are you not telling me here?
I tried a long time ago
to reward everyone directly involved for their kindness.
Once I had the resources to do so.
They all politely declined.
So, you sent me on an impossible mission
you knew was destined to fail?
Mom, this will cost me my trust fund.
I have faith that you are resourceful enough
and creative enough and motivated enough
to succeed where I could not.
I don't understand why you wanted me to do this.
For you?
No, for you.
I wanted you to learn what I learned and see what I saw.
Sweetheart, it's not about the act of giving.
It's about learning to give.
I have no words.
Greatness is not measured by what you have,
but by what you give.
[sighs]
[call ends]
Evie?
[groans]
Is everything okay?
Yeah, just a typically
unpleasant conversation with my mother.
Is there anything I can do to help?
No. No. But, thank you for offering.
In that case, do you wanna join me for a skate?
I've been up to my eyeballs in legal.
I think we could both use the break.
No, thanks.
What? Why? You don't like to ice skate?
Oh, I just don't know how to ice skate so.
You don't know how?
No.
Do you wanna learn?
[chuckles nervously]
Coast is clear.
You're not gonna be able to skate from over there.
How do you know unless you try?
Let me help you.
Give me your hands.
It's alright.
One... two...
There you go.
Wow.
Just one after the other.
Ooh...
There you go.
I'm doing it.
[laughing]
Don't let go, okay?
[laughing]
Oh...
[laughing]
Where are we going?
[laughter]
[Evie gasps]
[both laugh]
There's something I wanna tell you.
And I hope it doesn't spoil everything, but...
Well, here it goes.
My name isn't Mary Dawson.
I'm actually Evie Lane.
I'm the little girl who was born in a diner.
I know.
What?
I know who you are.
You know? Wait, how do you know?
Did Jack tell you?
No.
Jack knows? How does he know?
Yeah, he figured it out. But how do you know?
When you traded that thousand dollar bracelet
at the swap meet.
The vendor felt conflicted and called me.
I just figured you had a reason.
And you'd tell me when you were ready.
Turns out I was right.
Oh, you're gonna think I'm ridiculous.
Oh, I think we're past me thinking you're ridiculous.
Try me.
Whenever I meet new people, it's hard for me to tell
if they like me for me or for my money.
And the alias let me leave all that baggage behind.
And allowed me to see the world from a different perspective.
And I like what I see in you and the people of this town.
Not only that, I like how you see me... as a person.
Not just as a billionairess you can gain advantage from.
Honestly, when all is said and done,
you may have more financial resources
at your disposal than I do.
What?
What... what is that supposed to mean?
Well... if I don't find a way
to reward everyone that helped us,
by midnight on Christmas Eve...
...my mother will transfer control of my trust
to a charity of her choosing.
So...
...it's about money?
Look, I know what you're thinking.
Poor little rich girl.
My mother has feelings
about the way I've been living my life.
Maybe she's not entirely wrong.
Sending me here is her way of making me earn my trust fund
rather than just having it handed it to me, so.
I get it.
I get it, and time is ticking away, so...
I seem to remember
somebody's volunteered to be Santa's elf tonight.
So, you're not mad?
No.
Not even a little?
I'm not mad.
Yeah, we should get on that.
Yeah.
Do you want me to help you back?
Oh, all good.
I think I've got this now.
Okay, I'm gonna...
[Evie squeals]
Maybe you need a hand.
* O Christmas tree *
* O Christmas tree, *
* how true your leaves unchanging *
Roy... have you heard of the Brookswood Secret Santa?
I have not.
But only because it's a secret.
[laughing]
What if I was to tell you
a Secret Santa reached out to us
and they wanna do something for you... specifically?
Really?
Me?
Yeah.
No, they don't have to do that.
No, Roy, before you say no,
if you could make a Christmas wish, just one,
what might you wish for?
This for real?
I can confirm that it is. Yeah.
I don't know.
It still doesn't feel right.
Roy... it's real. And you deserve it.
Okay, wow.
Well, I guess there's a lot of stuff I would wish for.
Well, make your wish.
We'll see if the Secret Santa can make it come true.
Our fire engine.
So old we can't even get parts to fix it anymore.
I've submitted a request to the mayor for years,
but she just doesn't seem to have it in the budget.
Look, I know this is a big ask.
I don't think it's too big. Not at all.
Wouldn't you agree, Kyle?
Yeah. We'll reach out and see what we can do.
* Feel it coming like winter wings. *
Ho, ho, ho!
[cheers and applause]
* all together with family and friends. *
Welcome, all of Brookswood,
to the 35th annual Christmas Tree Jamboree!
[cheers and applause]
*
Let the festivities begin!
Merry Christmas.
Get your photo with Santa. Single file, right behind me.
Follow me, guys.
Merry Christmas!
One, two, three.
Perfect!
*...meets boy from the sky *
[laughing]
Alright. You ready?
Big smile. One, two, three.
* let your heart be filled with light *
* the holidays are here. *
* tonight *
[whistle blows]
Cup of cheer?
Yes. Thank you.
I didn't figure you for a hockey fan.
More of a hockey coach fan.
[chuckles]
Oh, yeah. He's great with kids, isn't he?
He is.
What about you? Do you have a family?
I have a son. He's about the same age as you.
Oh. Are you planning on spending Christmas together?
[sighs] Not this year.
Worried around town is...
that Brookswood's Secret Santa is stepping up their game
a little bit this year.
As it turns out, the Secret Santa is my mother.
I had my suspicions.
I guess that makes her
Brookswood's Not-So-Secret Santa.
I was also informed that she tried a long time ago
to reward everyone for their generosity.
And you all politely declined.
Well, I didn't wanna say anything earlier.
I thought it might discourage you
from getting reconnected with everyone.
Have you given any more thought to your Christmas wish?
I have.
Oh, terrific.
Do you wanna tell me what it is?
Well, my wish is that I want to host your birthday party
in the diner on Christmas Eve.
I think you have this whole wishing thing wrong.
You're supposed to wish for something I can do to help you.
Knowing that you're here and that you're well,
and that the act of kindness that I had a hand in
35 years ago has brought us all around for this moment.
Well... that's a big enough reward for me.
Seven, six, five, four, three, two, one!
-[horn] -[cheering]
Look how proud he is. Look at him over there.
Yeah!!!
Jack used his wish to host my 35th birthday party
at the diner on Christmas Eve.
Wow. That sounds like a hot ticket.
Hope I can get an invite.
You'll be my plus one.
I just... I wish there was something I could do for him.
Do you know his son?
Jason. Yeah.
He, uh...
They had a falling out.
Yeah, I thought that might be the case.
Well, Jack, he grew up pretty poor.
So, everything he had, he put towards the diner.
Try to give his family a better life.
Money got tight,
and he had to pick between his house and the diner.
He felt like the diner was more important to the community.
And his son never forgave him.
Do you think there's any way we could find his son?
I don't know where he is, but I could look into it.
I am your lawyer, after all.
Right answer.
[cheerful music]
[secretary] A Jack Marshall is on the line.
The owner of the diner in Brookswood.
He claims it's a personal call.
I'll take it.
This is Elizabeth Lane.
Hello there, Elizabeth, this is Jack Marshall.
I don't know if you'll remember me.
I remember you well, Jack. How are you?
I can't complain.
Is there something I can do for you?
No, uh...
Not for me.
There was something I was hoping you might do
for yourself.
You have my undivided attention.
Okay, uh...
I've met Evie.
And through no fault of her own,
I know why she's here.
Um...
She's made a really big splash in our little community, and,
well, I thought it might be nice for you to visit
so you could get to see firsthand
everything she's doing for the town.
It's important that Evie complete this challenge
all on her own.
I understand.
If you should change your mind about paying us a visit,
we're planning to celebrate her birthday here at the diner
on Christmas Eve.
Well, I appreciate the invitation.
Thank you for thinking of me.
I promise to let you know if I can attend.
Okay. Hope to see you soon.
[call ends]
[cheerful music]
I can't quite believe my eyes.
Here's the proper paperwork
granting full ownership to Brookswood's fire department.
Thank you.
And thank the Secret Santa for me.
This is amazing.
You're amazing.
It's for all you do for the community
and all the people you help.
[laughs]
I'm just gonna go check it out.
[both] Go for it.
*
Wow.
Well, well, well.
I hear the cup of cheer here is to die for.
Coming right up.
[laughs]
Elizabeth Lane, and I do mean this.
You look like a billion dollars.
As do you.
Wow.
Does Evie know you're here?
Uh, not yet. I thought I would surprise her.
Well, I am glad you decided to come.
So am I.
Wow.
Mmm!
Wow. This tastes just as good as it did 35 years ago.
It does not disappoint.
Well... it rarely does.
I can't help but feel as though I've traveled back in time.
Well, I guess maybe that makes me your own personal ghost
of Christmas past.
Hmm.
So... how is she?
She is fitting right in.
I mean, it's almost as if she was born here.
Listen, um... I hope you don't mind but I wanted to ask.
Why did you send her here on this secret mission?
My success has impacted her more than myself.
People are always trying to get close to Evie
to gain favor with me.
I was hoping that by sending her here undercover,
she could meet some good people
that she could take at face value
and not always assume that they had an ulterior motive.
Oh.
Well, for what it's worth...
If Evie were my daughter,
I would be extraordinarily proud of how she turned out.
Thank you, Jack.
Thank you.
Get in there, go meet Santa.
-One, two, three. -[camera clicks]
Right this way. You're next.
Get in there.
[camera clicks]
I didn't realize how charming this town is at Christmas time.
Festive activities were not exactly on the agenda
the last time you were here.
Oh, look. There she is.
Hey!
Great.
Um... you know what?
I'm gonna... I'm gonna be right back, okay?
Well, there is my darling daughter.
Mom, what are you doing here?
Well, Jack suggested that I come and see
all the great things that you have been doing.
And consider me impressed.
The fire engine was a big swing.
I'm glad you got to see that.
But shouldn't you be in New York?
This is your busiest time of year.
I wanted to come here and spend time with you.
Hey, the doc is here somewhere.
Oh, great.
Mom, this is Kyle Newman, my attorney.
Kyle, this is my mother, Elizabeth Lane.
It's a pleasure meeting you.
Likewise.
We haven't had an opportunity to get the doc's wish just yet,
and, well, we're running out of time.
I have an idea, just leave it to me.
Hey, Kate. Kate.
Oh, my.
Hi.
This is my mother, Elizabeth.
She decided to join me for the holidays.
And this is Dr. Kate Austin.
Nice to meet you.
Have we met somewhere before?
I'm sure our paths have crossed somewhere along the line.
Kate, how's it going with that search for your understudy?
Well...
not a lot of people getting out of medical school
are interested in a small town practice.
Insurance costs, staff. It's a non-starter.
I just wish there was some way to provide quality healthcare
to the Brookswood community for another 40 years.
Well, maybe you're just gonna have to do it
for another 40 years.
I would if I could.
[pleasant music]
How hard do you think it would be to find a new doctor?
I wouldn't say impossible, but maybe next to impossible.
Might I suggest offering incentives
based on the time they served?
Yeah, couldn't we set up a scholarship?
Like what you did with law school,
to guarantee someone to return.
It's a nice idea, but maybe we save that as a backup.
Medical school is like a ten-year endeavor.
Yeah. Yeah, you're right. Maybe for the future.
We need something for right now.
Okay. What if we offered a competitive salary, guaranteed?
Bonuses for every year they maintain the practice.
Permanent housing.
We can pay their student loans for every year they commit.
I know the commissioner of health in New York.
She might be able to help find a candidate.
But the doc is gonna want to pick and train the candidate.
She has a certain level of care
she's going to want her successor to adopt.
Of course, that goes without saying.
Do you, uh... you have someplace to be?
Ah, yes, actually.
Uh... where are we going?
The Brookswood Secret Santa is on a secret mission.
Let's hit the road.
Okay.
[pleasant music]
Uh... big lineup.
We drove two towns over for eggnog?
Not exactly.
Like I said, it's gonna be a surprise.
Huh.
Hey, do you remember how we used to spend
your summer vacations in small towns?
Going on sales trips all across the country.
I do.
Honestly, sometimes I miss those.
Well, not having money wasn't easy,
but it certainly made things less complicated.
Look, Mom, I didn't understand it at first,
but you've given me a gift that no amount of money
in the entire world could buy.
The people who helped us, it's like they stepped
right out of that photo and into real life.
I can't quite explain it,
but it feels like some sort of Christmas magic at work.
Aww, sweetie.
Okay, so if it's not for the eggnog,
is it... the kiosk owner?
Good guess.
It's Jack's son.
I came here hoping we might convince him
to reunite with his dad in time for Christmas.
Okay. Is it... do you have a little plan, or...?
I think we'll just have to make it up as we go.
Story of my life.
-Hi. -Hi there.
My name is Evie Lane. This is my mother.
Elizabeth.
Pleasure to meet you. What can I get you today?
Actually, I was hoping I could get you
to come to Brookswood to visit your dad.
[chuckles nervously]
[emotional music]
How can it be that 35 years have gone by since then?
Snuck up on all of us.
One day at a time.
You know, it just occurred to me.
I don't know why I didn't think of this before.
Andrew, Kyle's dad, was here that night you were born.
Really?
A lot of what happened that night is a bit of a blur.
To be honest,
I don't have the best recollection of it myself.
Well, why wasn't he in the photo?
Because he was the photographer.
It was also his idea to take up the collection
to help you and your mother.
Mm-hmm. That money kept me, you,
and the dream of Lane Cosmetics going.
His act of kindness gave us both a second chance.
Kyle's dad's been gone for more than a decade now.
Wait, what does this mean for the wishing project?
Hmm. Not exactly sure.
Well, it would only make sense
that Andrew's wish gets passed down to his next of kin.
Hmm.
[sighs]
Hmm.
[peaceful music]
He should be here pretty soon, so we'll just hang out.
Oh, hey. How'd it go?
Good. Yeah, we're in good shape.
I was just finishing up some legal
on those Christmas wishes.
How are you doing?
Oh, yeah, we're getting close.
May have hit a minor snag, but I'm working on it.
Did my tip on Jack's son pay off?
Better than we could have hoped.
[cheerful music]
Hello again.
Well, hello, old friend. How you feeling about tonight?
About as ready as I could ever be for the best birthday party
this town's ever seen.
How about you?
How are you feeling about having a 35-year-old daughter?
Well, it feels basically impossible,
given that I'm only 39 myself.
Hey, how old is your son now, Jack?
Um...
Well, he's just a little older than your Evie.
I'm ashamed to say, I've...
missed more birthdays than I'd like to count.
It's been years now.
Well, maybe tonight
could make up for some of those years.
Hey, Dad.
Jason.
I'm sorry, I...
I don't know what to say.
I missed you, too.
Oh, look at that.
It's not as much gray as yours.
[laughing]
* I want so bad *
* to give you all your wishes. *
[glasses clink]
This is a Christmas Eve birthday surprise party.
The surprise is...
our new friend Mary is not who she claims she is.
I am, actually, Evie Lane.
[chuckles]
I'm the little girl who was born in the diner
35 years ago tonight.
[gasps]
This wishing project, that my mother set in motion,
is our way of thanking you.
Without your willingness
to help a stranger in need all those years ago...
[exhales]
I'm not sure either one of us would be here tonight
celebrating with you guys.
Now, having said that,
I still have a few more Christmas wishes to fulfill.
Dr. Kate Austin.
That is a list of 30 highly qualified candidates.
All more than eager to take over your practice
whenever you decide to retire.
Thank you.
For everything.
I look forward to grilling them in their interviews,
come the new year.
Thank you.
Sheriff Bedford, you're next.
We have commissioned an artist out of New York
that's going to work with you to design
a memorial to honor you and your family.
It's for 200 years of maintaining a stable community
that the people of Brookswood can rely on.
Oh.
Thank you.
I'm genuinely touched by your kindness.
Thank you.
Others who helped us that night have already
received their wish.
Thank you.
So...
Everybody, let's raise a glass tonight
to celebrate my beautiful daughter's birthday.
And this wonderful town.
[all] Cheers!
Happy birthday!
Mm.
So, are you going to talk to Kyle about his wish?
I will.
Hey, uh... I was thinking
maybe I could use my trust fund
to do this sort of thing full time.
You know, find some other acts of kindness to pursue
in the new year.
Well, I would like that.
Hey, maybe that's something we could do together.
I would love that, too.
Well, this couldn't get any more magical.
It's your birthday, it's Christmas Eve,
and we're celebrating what you have accomplished,
which is truly... truly incredible.
Oh... Mom.
Thank you for this opportunity.
I needed it.
I'm so proud. I'm really proud.
[both chuckle]
[quiet conversation]
[chuckling]
Well...
You know, I have to admit that when we started this,
I had my doubts, but...
You really... you really pulled it off
in a spectacular fashion.
I could never have done it without your help.
You know, I do have one last wish to grant.
What?
No, we got everybody. There's nobody left.
Jack told me that your dad was here the night that I was born.
Not only was he the one who took the photo,
but he was also the one who started a collection plate
for a young, single mother who was about to have
a whole lot of medical bills to deal with.
I told you, he was the best.
Well, seeing as you're his son, and you are also the best,
I thought it was only fair
that you get to make a wish in his place.
No, I can't. Come on, that's cheating.
No!
It's the law.
-Well, it's Elizabeth's law. -Mmhmm.
[both laugh]
Okay.
Yeah, no, I, uh...
I know what I want.
I wish...
for a dinner with you.
A working dinner?
No.
Oh.
No, no, no.
This dinner is 100 percent a non-working dinner.
[both laugh]
*
* Every horizon I've owned *
* saw the lights of the city *
* from highways and airplanes... *
Hey, let's take a picture!
Oh, I think you're the photographer.
[laughing]
* brings me back, it always brings me back *
Um... yeah. Everybody get in there.
Alright, everybody say Merry Christmas!
[all] Merry Christmas!
[camera clicks]
* Oh, oh, oh... *
* I've crossed many miles *
* Oh, oh, oh... *
* There's no place like home *
* Oh, oh, oh ... *
* I've crossed many miles. *
*
* Oh, oh, oh... *
* Through wide open spaces and steady lights *
* For no matter where I go *
* There's no place like home. *
* Oh, oh, oh... *