[MUSIC PLAYING]
SANTA (OFFSCREEN): Ho, ho, ho, ho.
PASSERBY (OFFSCREEN): Here you go.
SANTA (OFFSCREEN): Oh, thank you.
Ho, ho, ho, ho.
PASSERBY (OFFSCREEN): Merry Christmas.
[GASP]
[WIND GUSTING]
-Oh.
[GASP] Oh, excuse me, I think you dropped this.
-Gorgeous, isn't it?
-Oh, yeah.
-It's the last one, and it's your size.
-Well!
[BEEPING]
CRYSTAL'S MOM (ON COMPUTER): Crystal, is that you?
-Hi, Mom.
CRYSTAL'S MOM (ON COMPUTER): Where have you been?
Shopping?
-Just a little.
-Hm, really?
By the size of my last credit card bill,
I'd assume you have been dressing
all of the Upper East Side.
-There's so many Christmas parties.
I-- I need new dresses.
-Crystal, you are 30 years old now.
You father and I assumed that by this time
you would find yourself something to do.
[GASP]
-Which is why we have decided we have
no choice but to cut you off.
-No!
You don't have to do that.
I-- I mean, I'm figuring things out, really.
I'm-- I'm gonna get a job.
So you have nothing to worry about.
From here on out, things are going to be different, I swear.
-We just wish you would do something with yourself.
Find a good man.
Anything.
-I'm on it, I promise.
-Fine!
You have until Christmas to sort it out.
Oh, And dear, that sweater was far too tangerine
for your complexion.
-Uh!
I had to tell her something.
The only other option she said was to find a man.
And since I've been diligently looking
for Mr. Right for the past 30 years,
I'm thinking he's not going to show up before Christmas.
Oh, I need a job!
And I need a latte.
Oh, great!
I'll meet you in an hour.
OLIVIA (READING LETTER): Dear Santa, I'm
sorry I forgot to write last year,
but thank you for the Easy Cook Oven.
If I had made a list, it, for sure, would have been on it.
This year, I don't have a list either.
That's because I'm wishing for just one
thing, a new wife for my dad.
This year will be the second Christmas since my mom died.
And even though my dad tries, Christmas
hasn't been the same since.
I know I can't wish my mom back, but maybe you
could send us someone as nice and pretty
and who can make my dad smile the way she did.
That way, maybe this year, we could have a real Christmas
again.
Merry Christmas.
Love, Olivia.
-I think it's a sign.
I mean, what are the chances that I would find this letter
on the exact day I'm suppose to change my life?
It's perfect.
-I'm not getting it.
-I could be this little girl's wish from Santa!
-Oh, no.
-What?
-Crystal, these people could be like hillbillies,
living in a trailer, or worse, the suburbs.
-They live in the West End.
I Googled their return address.
-Crys, I think you should put that letter back
in its envelope and drop it off in a mailbox.
-And break this little girl's heart when her wish from Santa
doesn't come true?
-Hey, we've all got to have our dreams crushed some time.
-It's Christmas.
I don't want to be the one to do it.
-Milkshake time!
Here we go.
Yes, yes, yes, yes.
Let's go.
[INAUDIBLE]?
-Yeah.
-OK.
Elevator.
Whew!
That's my girl.
[SLURPING]
[GASP]
-Oh, boy!
Ugh!
DEREK (OFFSCREEN): Well, maybe you left it in the truck.
Or on the porch.
-Oh!
-Hey, I shouldn't be too long.
All right.
Hey, OK, baby girl.
[KISSING]
HELPER (OFFSCREEN): We need [INAUDIBLE] out here.
When is the soup coming?
Shouldn't it be ready yet?
HELPER (OFFSCREEN): Do we have a shipment coming in at ten?
-Hey!
-Hi.
-Are you new here?
Yeah, I know volunteering for the first time
can be a bit overwhelming.
But you'll get used to it.
Where do you want to be tonight?
In the kitchen, or out on the floor serving?
[GULP]
-Well I'll be serving, so why don't you help me,
and that way I can ease you into it?
-OK.
-Great.
Aprons are over there.
Um, yeah, we're going to have to do something about that hair.
Um, yeah, uh, here's a hair net.
And we'll see you out there.
MAN (OFFSCREEN): I don't know.
I think it was hamburger.
HELPER (OFFSCREEN): What is this over in the cabinet?
[PATRONS CONVERSING]
-Hey, bread duty.
[GASP]
-Hi!
Hi.
Oh, oh.
Wait.
Um, you forgot your bread.
I-- I mean, unless you don't eat carbs, which,
I don't, especially whole wheat.
It makes me so bloated.
But you don't have to worry about that, do you?
Here, here's some extra.
-OK.
OK.
Enjoy your meal, Chris.
Thank you.
[SIGH]
-Don't worry, you'll get used to it.
Just remember, that underneath it
all, they're just like you and me.
Except, not as fussy about the carbs.
-Well, hmm.
-I'm Derek, by the way.
-Crystal.
-Well, thank you, very much for helping us
out tonight, Crystal.
It's appreciated.
Hello, Agnes.
AGNES (OFFSCREEN): Hi, there. [INAUDIBLE].
-There you go, sweetheart.
OK.
And bread.
Some bread, with the tongs.
-There you go.
-Enjoy.
[SIGH]
-Honey, you'd better soak that pot,
or else you're going to be scrubbing away that manicure.
[GASP]
-Is that [INAUDIBLE] an orgasm?
-Of course.
-Huh!
I wear that!
-Pete Kennedy, chef extraordinaire!
-Crystal Carruthers.
-Oh, and, sweetie, ditch the hair net.
Just make sure your hair is up and away.
You have got to try this.
-Um--
-Whew!
Hi there, Ben.
MAN (OFFSCREEN): We need a couple more chairs.
DEREK (OFFSCREEN): Here's another one for you.
-Yeah, it's--
-Oh, trust me.
-OK.
Mm!
That's good.
-Mm.
-Really good.
-Hm, four years of culinary school, I should hope so.
Huh!
Edible, isn't he?
He's a real doll.
Poor dear works double time, between his job,
taking care of his kid, and he still
finds time for this place.
-How often does he volunteer?
-Volunteer?
Mm, mm, sweetheart.
He runs this place.
It was his wife's project before she died.
He promised her he would keep it going.
And knowing that, doll, he'll do whatever
he can to keep that promise.
-Here you go.
Oh, wait.
Perfect, so Jude law.
-You're doing great.
-Thanks.
-Hey, uh, listen, we have a delivery
happening tomorrow at around 9:00.
We could always use an extra hand.
-I'll be there.
-Awesome, thanks.
-Daddy!
-Aw, hey, sweetie, how was Cloe's?
Did you thank her mom for giving you a ride?
-Yep, and for lunch.
Even though I didn't really like it.
-Hm!
That's my girl.
Hey, listen, I've got a few things
I've got to wrap up out here, so why don't you
go to the back and practice?
-Hi, Mr. Lockhart.
-She's sweet.
-Yeah, that she is.
Hey, do you mind, uh, holding down the fort?
-You bet.
-Hey, Frank, how you doing?
[OLIVIA PRACTICING FLUTE]
WOMAN (OFFSCREEN): Oh, dear.
[OLIVIA PRACTICING FLUTE]
-I hate this thing.
-I had to be the cello for three years.
I hated it too.
-My grandmother to my dad I should
start playing an instrument.
-Well, at least you can keep your nails.
Me, I couldn't even have a French manicure.
And don't even get me started on the clothes.
Have you ever tried to play the cello in a pencil skirt?
Well, have you told your dad, you know, that you hate it?
-I don't want to hurt his feelings.
-Well, maybe there's something else you could do.
-I love skating.
My dad takes me to Brier Brink every Wednesday.
-I used to take figure skating lesson there, for, like,
10 years!
-Wow!
You must be good.
-Well--
-Crystal, could you give you give me a hand please, sweetie.
-Oh, that's me.
I gotta run.
Good luck.
Yes, sir.
[OLIVIA PRACTICING FLUTE]
PETE (OFFSCREEN): Can you get that pot?
We're going over to the dining room.
[OLIVIA PRACTICING FLUTE]
-OK.
-Set it here.
-OK.
[SIGH]
-Who's that?
-That?
Oh, that's old Frank McCourt, the most stubborn man
on the streets.
Old guy refuses to come inside.
So every time Derek sees him, he takes a bowl out to him.
Says he's lived on the streets for 25 years,
and he'll never put a roof over his head again.
-Why is that?
-Oh, who knows, sweetie?
But Derek's been trying to get him
to come inside for over a year now.
Frank just won't budge.
-Oh, sorry.
There you go.
Oh, my goodness.
I'm so sorry.
I don't know what happened.
I swear I set my alarm, but I think
I set it for PM instead of--
-Uh, you got a little something on your-- other side.
Yeah.
Lis-- listen, don't worry about it.
We're almost done here, anyways.
So, uh, you can, uh, go ahead and go home.
-Well, I have an open house this afternoon,
so anything else I can help with?
-Oh, yes, actually, can you take the donations
to the shelter on your way?
-Of course.
-Oh.
-So I'll see you later tonight?
DEREK (OFFSCREEN): Yeah, you bet.
Thanks anyway.
-I can't believe you didn't tell me he was seeing someone.
-Sweetie, I didn't realize you were on the serious prowl.
I mean, obviously, Derek is drool-worthy
in a blue-collar kind of way.
But he's a long way from Park Avenue.
So I'm dying to know, what led you
all the way to the East Side?
BARTISTA (OFFSCREEN): What can I get for you?
-Could I get a trouble shot, nonfat, half sweet mocha,
extra hot, please?
-Oh, make it two.
-Where did you get this?
-I, uh, I found it.
I-- I was looking at this dress in a store window,
and it just floating in front of me.
-Oh, my God!
It's fate!
Why else would it have come to you?
-Ha!
That's exactly what I thought.
-Oh, doll, we have to make this happen.
-Oh, well, it was a lot easier before Wendy Walnut
was in the picture.
Plus, I kind of blew it this morning.
-Oh, listen, the only thing that two-faced hyena
has got going for her is history.
She and Derek dated for like a millisecond, back
in college, before he fell for Laura.
But honey, you've got it all, looks,
style, that thingy you do with your hair.
It was fabulous.
The only thing left is for you to show
that you've got what it takes,
-To what?
-Be a mom, of course.
-Oh.
BARTISTA (OFFSCREEN): And that will be $10.50.
-Oh, um, can you break $100?
[KIDS PLAYING]
-I don't want to do that anymore.
-Yeah, I have to admit it's not bad.
-Oh, look at her, she's pretty good.
Look at her go!
-Wow.
-That's Crystal.
-She's good.
-She's good, right?
-Ugh!
-Oh, um, Crystal!
You OK?
-Yeah.
-Here.
-Oh, thanks.
I meant to do that.
-That was amazing!
Can you teach me how to do that twirly thing?
-Oh, Olivia, I'm sure Crystal has her own friends
that she wants to hang out with.
-It's fine.
I'm, actually, not here with anyone.
-Dad, please?
-Well, if we're not keeping you?
-No.
[CELL PHONE RINGING]
-Oh, sorry.
Oh, sweetie, I got to take this phone.
-Oh, she could stay with me.
I'll be here.
[CELL PHONE RINGING]
-Are you sure?
-Yeah, we'll have fun.
-OK, I'll just be a minute.
-OK.
All right, you ready?
-Yep.
-So doing a turn is really not as hard as it looks.
You put your feet apart, like that.
Good.
Now put your arms out to the side, turn your body and spin.
Oh!
Almost.
You'll get it next time.
-(SARCASTICALLY) Nice twirl, Olivia.
-Maybe your pigtails set you off balance.
By the way, I love the purple helmet.
I think I saw a kindergartner wearing the same one.
-In case you didn't know, pigtails
are all the rage right now.
Vanessa Hudgens.
-I guess that's why Zack broke up with her.
BTW, the hat, so last year.
-Don't worry, I like your hat.
-Who are those girls?
-They're just a couple of girls from my school.
-Are they always so mean?
-I guess, but they're right.
I have had this purple helmet since kindergarten.
-Well, let me tell you something.
Everything old always becomes new again.
I mean, take leg warmers or padded shoulders,
although I'm pretty sure those shouldn't have come back.
Besides, I bet they're not all that anyway.
Do they have boyfriends?
-No.
They both like Andrew Lick, though.
But he won't even talk to them.
He and I sometimes play dodge ball.
-I bet that drives them crazy.
-It does.
-Oh, let me guess, are they all like, (IMITATING GIRLS)
hi, Andrew, like, what are you up to?
[GIGGLING]
-Oh, my gosh, this cherry chapstick's, like, the best.
-What's going on?
-Oh, we were just, um, practicing Olivia's spin.
-Yeah?
-Yeah.
Show him.
-Yoo-hoo!
Whoa!
-Oh.
-Sorry I'm late.
Just wrapped up another house sale.
-No, not a problem.
Um, oh, uh, yeah, Jillian, Crystal.
Crystal, Jillian.
-Hi.
-Pleasure.
-OK.
So thank you Crystal, shall w-- I got you, I got you.
Shall we go?
Bye.
-Bye.
DEREK (OFFSCREEN): Let's go.
I got you.
-Do you ever think you might want--
I don't know, like, a normal life?
Family?
-Is this about that family you're stalking?
-I just want Derek to see there's more to me than just
my fabulous sense of style.
I mean, there's more to us than just shopping and lattes,
right?
-Yeah.
Yeah, of course there is.
-Of course there is.
MAN (ON RADIO): Between record cold temperatures and snowfall
throughout the region, the forecast
is calling for the cold weather to continue.
A record Christmas and New Year.
[WIND HOWLING]
-Yoo-hoo!
-Now I finally get the hyena reference.
[IMITATING_JILLIAN'S_LAUGH]
-Pete?
-Hm?
-Um, are you good to close up?
-You bet, doll.
-OK.
[COUGHING]
-Norman?
You OK, bud?
-Something just went down the wrong-- [CHOKING].
-Can I get a napkin.
-Uh--
DEREK (OFFSCREEN): It's OK, man.
Just--
[CHOKING]
-Thank you.
DEREK (OFFSCREEN): You good?
You got it?
You good?
All right.
Thank you.
Oh, no.
She got it.
-Ugh!
Ew!
-Good night.
-Oh!
Oh, nice Stella M. Knock off?
-No, and actually it's Burberry.
-Oh!
My purse is Burberry.
-Huh?
Uh, I don't think Burberry uses vinyl, sorry.
DEREK (OFFSCREEN): See you tomorrow, Pete.
Do you have a ride?
-Oh, yeah.
I'm just parked down the street.
-OK.
Great.
See you tomorrow.
-That was frostier than the damn air tonight.
-Oh, it's still open, if you want
to just step inside and get warmed up.
-Oh, no.
No, darling, 25 years ago I made a decision to just step inside.
That decision changed my life.
So if you don't mind, uh, I think
I'll take my chances out here.
-Frank!
It looks great!
Oh, men were totally wearing animal print on the runway
this season.
-Thanks.
-Merry Christmas!
-Oh!
-Merry Christmas.
Look, it matches your hat.
I know you love purple.
Oh, it's beautiful!
All right, who wants new gloves?
Here you go.
OK.
Agnes, oh, that purple with your eyes.
I never knew they were so stunning.
OK, let's see.
[GASP} Oh, here, you are totally Fred Astaire!
Mr. Lockhart, I think this is your color!
-Would you care to dance, mademoiselle?
-I'd love to.
-Whoa!
Ho, ho, ho.
-Ah, thank you.
-One more for ya, Ben.
-Derek, mail call.
-Is everything OK?
-Y--uh, yeah, just the, uh, money sharks circling.
Nothing I can't handle.
-Crystal!
Guess what?
I've been practicing, and now I can totally do a spin!
-That's amazing!
Now, all you need is the proper skating skirt, you know,
for the full effect.
-Did you hear that, Dad?
-Hm?
Uh, uh, yeah.
Uh, I'm sorry, sweetie, I can't do game tonight.
I got a truck down on the highway.
I'll text Jeniffer and see if she can watch ya.
-What about Crystal?
-Oh, no, I-- ow!
sure, I'd love to.
-That's very nice, but I'm sure you've got better plans.
-Actually, I don't.
-Please, Dad?
-Are you sure? 'Cause I'll just text the guys and let them
know I'm on my way, thanks.
-Great!
I'm just gonna get some-- what are you doing?
-(WHISPERING) I'm helping.
-I've never babysat anything in my life!
-Seriously?
I thought all of us pre-teen girls babysat.
-Not me.
The only thing I ever watched was the school hamster,
and it died a slow death somewhere
in the walls of my parent's condo.
-Ready?
-You bet!
Hmm.
-So, what's for dinner?
I think you're supposed to open it with this.
-I can do that.
That was easy.
Do you have any 8's?
-Yeah.
-Yay!
-Do you have any 3's?
-Oh!
So how are the cherry ChapSticks?
-The same.
They're always making fun of my clothes and stuff.
I mean, my stuff is kind of old.
Like, this skirt's from Christmas two years ago.
I guess shopping just isn't really a dad thing.
-Well, I may not be a very good cook,
but I am a darn good shopper!
Maybe you and I could go sometime.
-Really?
That would be great!
[SMOKE__ALARM_SOUNDING]
-What's that?
[GASP]
-Oh, oh!
OK.
Ow!
-Here.
-OK.
[SMOKE__ALARM_SOUNDING]
-Aah!
Aah!
Oh!
[SIZZLING]
[SMOKE__ALARM_SOUNDING]
-Do you like pizza?
-Mm, hm.
-Good.
Ugh!
-You know, my mom and I, we used to have one night a week.
We'd call it our date night.
Sometimes we'd stay in like this and watch a movie.
And before Christmas, we'd have a special date night.
We got hot chocolates, and we walk through Roselawn Park
to the big Christmas tree.
That's where we'd make our Christmas wishes.
What about this year?
Did you make a wish?
-I didn't have to.
I sent a letter to Santa, instead.
He's probably got it by now.
I'd tell you what I wished for, but my mom always
said, if you tell, it may not come true.
-Sounds like your mom was really special.
-She was the best.
What about you?
You and your mom do anything special?
-Hmm.
You know, my mom was always pretty busy, on business trips
with my dad.
-Well, that's too bad.
-Yeah.
My nannies were really nice, though.
-You know, maybe you and I could hang out some time.
Like at the skating rink, or something?
-That would be great!
[PHONE RINGING]
-[SIGH] Oh, brother, it's Jillian.
[PHONE RINGING]
-You don't like her?
-Are you kidding?
All she ever talks about with my dad is,
remember when we did this?
Remember what happened when?
But what she doesn't seem to remember,
is my dad dumped her to be with my mom.
[PHONE RINGING]
-Oh.
-Oh, I know what will drive her crazy.
[BEEP]
-Hello.
Oh, hi, Jillian.
No, he's not here.
I think he went out on a date with Crystal.
-(WHISPERING) Stop it!
-But I'll tell him you called.
Good night.
-What did you-- oh, my God!
We're going get in trouble!
[KEYS JINGLING]
(SINGING ON TV) Hallelujah!
Hallelujah!
Your town has brought me home.
Hallelujah!
-Soory, I, uh, fell asleep.
-No, no, no.
It's OK.
Sorry I'm so late.
I just-- well, I couldn't get the plow
hitched to the tow truck.
And it was a-- anyway.
How was she?
-Ha!
She beat me three times at Go Fish.
-She wins every time.
The kid's got incredible luck.
I should take her to Vegas.
-Oh!
She's a great girl.
-Yeah, she is, isn't she?
-Hm.
-Sometimes I think she takes care of me more than I do her.
But then she does something that reminds me
she's just a little girl who needs a mom.
-Yeah.
-I know I could never replace Laura.
I mean, Laura was-- she was special.
And Jillian, I mean, she's-- I don't expect to feel the same
way that Laura made me feel, but, uh, it doesn't matter.
Because I owe it to her to find her a mom, and this time
it's not about me.
-Hmm.
-I'm sorry.
It-- it's late.
Hmm.
Look, you were sleeping.
Why don't you just crash?
-Oh, no.
That-- that's OK.
I don't have any of my stuff.
-We've got an extra toothbrush.
-I guess that's all I need.
-Yeah.
Hey, you really helped me out tonight.
And besides, Olivia will be upset
if she never got a chance to say goodbye.
So--
-All right.
-Cool.
I'll, uh, take Olivia up to her room and I'll get you set up.
-OK.
-Morning.
Come on, Liv.
-Good morning.
-How does this-- I swear I put these away every year,
untangled.
-Here we go!
The battle of the lights begin.
Come on!
You do the top and I'll decorate the bottom.
-Great!
Oh, it smells so good.
My family always had one of those prelit trees.
-Oh, no, no, no.
None of those prefab artificial trees in my house.
Besides that, it takes all the fun out of it.
Seriously?
Come on!
-Let's decorate your dad.
-Oh!
CRYSTAL (OFFSCREEN): There.
OLIVIA (OFFSCREEN): You look funny.
-Just what I what I wanted, a tinsel boa.
-Morning!
-I'm sorry, I completely forgot we had a brunch date.
-No worries.
I brought everything we need.
So did Crystal spend the night, or--
-Yeah, she was watching Olivia and it got late so--
-Oh.
So she was babysitting, was she?
[GASP] Oh, my lord, what happened here?
-Oh, I, um, I kind of burnt dinner.
-Not much of a cook, are we?
-I can manage.
-Crystal, can you stay for brunch?
-Oh, I'm sure that Crystal has things to do, like shopping.
-Actually, I'd love to stay.
Thank you.
-Daddy.
-Yes, baby.
-Crystal said she'd take me shopping sometime.
-Oh, that sounds like fun.
-Uh, sweetheart, do you think that's such a good idea?
I mean, we don't know much about Crystal, do we?
-So can we go?
-Um, yeah.
Sure.
As long as you don't mind if I tag along.
-No, that would be great.
-Are you OK for a minute, because I'm
going to go check the garage and see
if we have extra tree lights.
-You go ahead.
Us girls have everything under control.
So seeing as you're staying, perhaps you
could manage to whip the cream.
You do you know how, don't you?
-Of course.
-We're in luck.
-Oh!
Oh!
[SCREAMING]
-Ladies!
[SIGH]
-Nice ring, isn't it?
-Yes, it is.
-And I guarantee, it will be on my finger by Christmas.
-Mmm.
Hope you can hang onto him, this time.
-I'll have you know, that Derek and I would still be together
if it weren't for the angelic, Laura,
who stole him away from me.
But trust me, I won't let that happen again.
See you downstairs.
Now we're there.
-Oh, my God!
Remember that?
Professor Kubric and the dean got caught, you know.
-No wonder we all got A's that class.
-Hmm.
Where did you go to school, Crystal?
-Oh, um, NYU.
-Really?
My friend Bev went there.
What year did you graduate?
-Um, 2003.
Oh, shoot!
I just remembered, I have to go, um, and do this thing.
So I'll see you later.
Bye.
-Bye.
-Honey!
-A ring?
Not for that knockoff queen you told me about?
-That's what she seems to think.
I guess she's her fake press-ons in deeper than I thought.
What am I doing?
Maybe I should just give up.
-Crys, if you really believe you found that letter for a reason,
then all you gotta do is make him see why.
-And now, introducing Miss Olivia Gowen!
As you can see, Miss Gowen is sporting
the latest in winter chic.
Her navy trench and floral scarf are the perfect blend
of style and sophistication.
-You look beautiful.
And older.
-Thank you.
-We're just getting started, honey!
-I like it.
-Congrats!
-Mmm?
Come on.
Yeah.
So tell me, other than helping out
the kitchen, what do you do?
-Um, I'm-- I'm kind of in the middle of things, you know,
just-- just trying to figure out exactly what it is I want
to do.
-I get that.
What did you major in?
-Um, des-- design-er stuff.
-Oh, well, listen, I really appreciate all the time
you've been putting in at the kitchen.
Not many people give their time so selflessly.
You really have a way with people, you know that?
-I do?
-Yeah, totally.
I mean, you should think about that when you're, you
know, figuring stuff out.
-We're here!
-Oh, where?
-This is it.
The tree I was telling you about.
-So?
It's only a week till Christmas.
You gonna make a wish?
-Uh, I don't need to.
Santa already knows my wish.
In fact, I'm pretty sure he's working on it, right now.
DEREK (OFFSCREEN): Here we are.
You know, I enrolled Olivia in figure skating lessons.
You really inspired her.
And she's got her first lesson on Tuesday.
I'm sure she would love it if you could come.
-I'll be there.
-Great.
Thank you for today.
-I had fun.
-Oh, I should get this little one to bed.
Oh.
-Sweet dreams.
-Wait!
Today, it really felt like-- like I had a mom again.
-Ha!
Hey!
-How's she doing?
-She's amazing.
Thank you.
-Wow!
I can't believe they're getting to turns already.
-I know, right?
Just watch her little face, though,
when she does a little hop.
It's so proud.
Yeah!
CRYSTAL (OFFSCREEN): Yay, Olivia!
Way to go, Olivia!
DEREK (OFFSCREEN): Yay, Olivia!
Good job, babe.
[COMPUTER BEEPING]
-Hi dear.
Is that you?
-Yeah.
CRYSTAL'S MOM (ON COMPUTER): Oh, I see you've put the tree up.
-Oh, yeah.
I don't know, I-- I was thinking about maybe
getting a real one this year.
-Oh, well, it's up to you, dear, because your dad and I
won't be making it back for Christmas.
-There's a surprise.
-What was that?
-Sounds like a party.
-Lord, every day these boys play the drums.
Drives me crazy.
Huh!
But listen, don't worry, Santa sent you
a little something in the mail.
-Hm. [BOAT HORN SOUNDING]
-Oh!
We're just about to set sail.
Hope you're busy turning things around.
Kisses.
-Merry Christmas.
[SIGH]
[PHONE RINGING]
-Hello.
-He's going out with that witch again.
-When?
-He's leaving right now.
-What's he wearing?
-A suit!
He never wears a suit.
I mean, what's he gonna go do?
CRYSTAL (ON PHONE): Oh, no.
Uh!
OK.
OK, I've got a plan.
-Teatro, you must have had to make
a reservation for this place weeks ago.
-Uh-huh, yeah.
Three, to be exact.
-Any special occasion?
-Ha!
Can I get a glass of water, please?
-So where's Olivia tonight?
Not with Crystal, I hope.
-Oh, Jeniffer's watching her.
Why?
What's wrong with Crystal?
-Nothing.
Just, I asked my friend Bev, you know, the one
that went to NYU if she knew Crystal back then.
It turns out, she didn't even graduate.
Got kicked out for missing too many classes,
is what I was told.
-You know that I never graduated either, right?
-But you didn't lie about it.
I mean, why on earth would she lie
about something like graduating?
It just makes me wonder what else she might be hiding.
[CELL PHONE RINGING]
-Sorry.
-Ha!
-Um, hey!
Uh, wel-- n-- OK.
All right.
I'll be right there.
Bye.
We got to go.
-Thank you.
[COUGHING]
-Thanks for coming home.
-Hey, you know you're the most important thing to me.
-I feel cold.
Do I have a fever?
-Mm, yeah.
You do feel a bit warm.
CRYSTAL (OFFSCREEN): Hello?
-I-- I called Crystal, just in case
I couldn't get a hold of you.
-OK.
-Oh, yeah, the front door was open.
How is she?
-Uh, she's OK.
Just needs some rest so she can get better before Santa comes.
-Daddy, can Crystal tuck me in?
-Um, yeah.
Sure.
OK.
-Thanks.
-Yeah.
-You were great!
She went right to sleep.
Sorry about your night.
I hope that it wasn't anything important.
-Oh, no, no.
To be honest, my, uh, heart wasn't really into it.
-You know if you need any help on Christmas at the kitchen,
I'm free.
-Wow!
Thanks but, uh, yeah, I don't think
there's going to be a Christmas dinner this year.
-Why not?
-We've been falling behind in rent for awhile and, uh, yeah,
I guess the bank is out of goodwill.
-But it's Christmas.
-Well, the bank doesn't see it that way.
They just see that we owe ten grand in back rent.
Yeah.
I wish there was more that I could do, but--
-Well, I think you do a lot already.
I mean, you've got your business and the kitchen
and everything you do for Olivia.
-Oh, that reminds me, I should, uh,
leave a message at the music store
and let them know she'll be out sick for her lesson tomorrow.
-You know, it-- it's really not my place to say,
but she doesn't really like the flute all that much.
-What?
-Like, not a.t all.
-Really?
-Yeah.
-I thought little girls would love playing the flute.
-No.
-See this is exactly why Olivia needs a mother like you.
I mean, a -- a person like you.
Some, uh, oh, a woman who knows girly stuff that
-Girl-- girl things.
-Yeah.
Yeah.
-Well, I should go check on Olivia.
I-- I should go, too.
-Oh, hey, Crystal, um, it's not a big deal,
but why did you lie about graduating?
-Uh, I don't know.
I-- I-- I guess I just thought not finishing school
sounded kind of flaky.
-Well then, I guess that makes me a flake too.
Yeah.
So, just in case, are there anymore
secrets I should know about?
-Probably.
-Fair enough.
-Bye.
-Here you go.
-Oh, thanks.
-Hmm?
Have you ever made a decision you thought would be a good one
and it ended up changing your life
in ways you never imagined?
-Every time you make a decision, you to take a gamble.
That's what life is.
Sometimes you can even gamble your whole life away,
every last, goddamn penny.
-A casino?
That's where you stepped into?
[SIGH]
-Not all decisions turn out to be bad ones.
-Yeah.
I think I should tell him about the letter.
-And spoil the magic?
Doll, Relationship 101, what he doesn't know won't hurt him.
[GASP]
-Oh, my God!
Oh, my car was stolen.
-OK, OK, OK, OK.
Where did you park?
-I just-- right out front, and--
-In the, uh, tow-away zone?
Yeah.
-Yeah.
-OK, well, I'll, uh, take you to the impound lot.
-No.
I'll just-- [SIGH] I'll call a cab.
DEREK (OFFSCREEN): Don't be silly.
-OK.
-I'll lock the door.
-Thank you.
-Let's go.
Oh, after you.
-Thank you, you're very kind.
[CELL PHONE BEEPING]
-You're kidding me, dude?
-Is everything OK?
-Oh, I got a customer complaining
that he needs his lot plowed right away, tonight.
All my guys are out.
I got to do it.
Do you mind?
-No, no.
Um, you're the one doing me a favor.
I'll just get my car in the morning.
-You sure?
-Yeah.
-Cool.
Thanks.
[MUSIC - JOCELYN ALICE, "FATE"]
-Are you ready?
You don't get carsick do you?
I don't think so, Why?
-Hold on!
-Oh, whoa!
Are you supposed to drive like this?
-Absolutely, wild style, baby!
You're a little scared right now.
I think I like that.
-This is your job?
DEREK (OFFSCREEN): Yeah, here you give it a try.
Take the control.
-No.
DEREK (OFFSCREEN): Just like a video game, grab a hold.
Here we go.
-I don't want it!
-OK, that lifts the bucket.
That drops it.
That's right to right. You ready?
-How do you know-- -But the bucket up.
-But the bucket up. - --when to lift.
-But the bucket up, we're reversing.
-Now?
-Yeah, right now.
-OK.
Here we go. Drop the bucket.
-Drop!
-Yeah, good.
Here we go.
Good. Good.
No, you got it.
You got it.
You know you're not steering with that, right?
I'm steering.
OK.
Drop the bucket.
It's OK. CRYSTAL (OFFSCREEN): OK.
DEREK (OFFSCREEN): We're plowing!
Here we go.
OK.
We're stopping.
-OK.
-Plow up.
There you go.
OK.
Now we're going forward.
Hold on! Here we go!
-I got it. I got it!
Wait!
DEREK (OFFSCREEN): Put the bucket up!
There you got it.
You got it.
OK.
Raise the bucket.
Reverse again.
-Oh!
-Woo-hoo!
Now we just do this another 500, 600 times.
-What?
You have to do this whole yard?
DEREK (OFFSCREEN): Absolutely!
Till it's done.
Here we go.
You were handling it like a pro.
-Yeah.
-I'm serious.
Ah, I'm telling you, you were awesome.
I know you're looking for a job.
I mean, I'd hire ya.
Oh, hey, you know, I'm having a Christmas
party at my place tomorrow night.
Just a work thing for my employees.
Nothing fancy, just beer and potato chips.
But, um, it'd be great if you could come.
-I'd love to.
-All right.
Cool.
Uh, around 8:00.
You know where I live.
-I do.
-See you then.
-OK.
Oh!
-You good?
-Squeeze me?
I'm doing what?
-You're going to cater Derek's party.
-Does he know that?
-No.
-So I'm part of your master plan, is that it?
-Pete, you're a fantastic chef.
You can't hide out in a soup kitchen forever.
Oh, what about this?
-I don't know, sweetie, it's a little
to Breakfast at Tiffany's.
-This is so stupid.
Why do I even care what I wear to his party,
when, for all I know, he could be engaged already?
-Doll, you had a moment.
The two of you plowed snow together.
I mean, that's one step away from, well, plowing.
-Stop that!
-Ooh!
What about this one?
[SIGH]
Too Desperate Housewives.
-Hmm?
-Oh, my God!
I've got it.
It's perfect!
[MUTTERING]
[MUSIC PLAYING ON RADIO]
-Hey, you made it.
-Yeah.
-Wow, you look amazing.
-Thanks.
And you're not wearing plaid.
Where's Olivia?
-Ah, she's at her grandparent's.
-Oh.
-Derek, you didn't tell me Crystal was coming.
-Surprise.
-Derek, you should have told her the dress was casual.
Poor thing.
You must feel so silly.
-Actually, I've always thought it's better
to be over-dressed than under-dressed.
I mean, what worse, showing up looking fabulous or whatever?
Oh, excuse me.
-Finally!
Thank God you're here.
-Oh, look at this party.
We have to do something.
[UPBEAT MUSIC PLAYING]
-Oh, look at this.
Thanks.
Whoa!
-You like it?
-Yeah.
What is in this?
-Secret family recipe.
-Mmm!
-OK, who wants a drink?
Come on.
-That's such a personal question.
-Cannoli?
-Thanks, Pete.
CRYSTAL (OFFSCREEN): Are you guys, having fun?
-Mm!
Good, Pete.
Pete's awesome.
CRYSTAL (OFFSCREEN): Come on!
MAN (OFFSCREEN): Thanks, buddy!
MAN (OFFSCREEN): You look absolutely--
CRYSTAL (OFFSCREEN): Thank you!
Yeah!
-You want to dance?
-Sure!
-Jeff, bro, you never dance!
MAN (OFFSCREEN): Look at that!
-I know, man.
I know.
-Now I see why she got kicked out of school.
Probably slept off too many frat parties.
I mean, what exactly does she think she's doing?
-Having fun.
MAN (OFFSCREEN): Oh, bust a move, baby!
Is this from the '80s?
So cool!
PETE (OFFSCREEN): Oh, party down, people.
-I'm going to go, uh, put some more beer in the fridge.
-I'm sorry, this one's occupied.
-You may think you have something
with this whole "fun little rich girl" thing.
But let me tell you this.
I'm the one who held Derek's hand at Laura's funeral.
I'm the one who checked in on him, every day.
Made sure he had food in the fridge, clean clothes to wear.
And I'm the one who will be there
for him, for the rest of his life.
-Whether he likes it or not?
-Just know, I'm onto your lies.
-Good.
Now it seems we finally have something in common.
[PARTYING]
-You've created a monster.
-Oh!
-I don't know how I'll ever get rid of these guys, now.
-Sorry.
-Don't be.
It's the best Christmas party we've ever had.
Well, other than the time that we went
off-roading in the plows.
[SIGH]
-So what are you doing out here?
-I don't know.
I guess I just don't feel like celebrating anything.
It's official.
By Christmas we'll be locked out of the kitchen.
-I'm so sorry.
I wish there was more I could do.
-Believe me, you've done more than you know.
You know, ever since that first day
that you walked in, I've been wondering,
where did this girl come from?
-Derek, there's something that we talk--
[LAUGHTER]
-I guess I better go and, uh, try to reign this thing in.
-Sure.
-Crystal, you want to go out, with me, tomorrow night?
-I'd love to.
[GLASS BREAKING]
-Guy's, come on!
-Clumsy Neanderthals!
WOMEN (OFFSCREEN): Yeah, that sounds good.
MAN (OFFSCREEN): I think she's great.
I've never had one of those before.
WOMEN (OFFSCREEN): Woo-hoo!
[APARTMENT BUZZER]
[ELEVATOR DINGING]
-Hi!
Hey!
So, um, where do you want to go?
We could get a drink, or some food,
or-- oh, there's this new place on Jane Street.
They have like jazz, and ta--
-Where did you get this?
-Um, I found it.
But--
-So what?
You decided to keep it, and, uh, you know,
you thought yourself, oh, hey, I'll just lie and pretend
that I appeared in these people's lives.
And make them think it was all real?
-It was.
It is.
-Let me ask you this.
Did you ever really care about helping out at the kitchen,
about those people, or was it all just part
of this, I don't know, game?
-No, it-- it-- it wasn't a game, Derek.
Believe me, things changed.
I-- I changed.
-You took advantage of a little girl's wish for your own-- I
don't know what!
Amusement?
-No.
-Whatever the reason, it doesn't matter.
Jillian was right.
You're a liar.
You know for a minute there, I thought I was wrong.
That maybe someone could make me feel the way I once did.
But I was right, too.
-Derek, wait.
Please.
It's for Olivia.
[GASP]
WOMAN (ON TV): Around Christmas?
WOMAN (ON TV): In the Bronx, I don't know, but--
WOMAN (ON TV): I have a [INAUDIBLE].
[COMPUTER BEEPING]
-Hi, sweetheart.
Just checking in to see if you've
received our Christmas gift yet?
Your father and I haven't heard from you,
so we assumed you were unsuccessful in finding a job,
or whatever it is you were trying to do.
So we feel it's time you were forced
to make a change in your life, which is why we're going ahead
with our decision to discontinue your allowance.
Now you know how much we love you,
which is why we're sending a little extra for Christmas
this year.
It is our way of supporting you in your advancement.
But I suggest you make it last.
I'd better be off.
Kisses.
Oh, and Merry Christmas.
-All right, excuse me, everyone.
Can I, uh, can I get your attention for a moment?
-What's going on?
-Um, as you may or may not know, we've
been struggling to keep things afloat, lately.
And as much as I wish that I had better news, the hedge fund
that now owns our mortgage has instructed management to,
well, shut us down.
-What?
-We'll be locked out by midnight tonight.
WOMEN (OFFSCREEN): You're kidding me?
MAN (OFFSCREEN): What about all these people?
-I'm sorry.
-Oh!
[MUMBLING]
[SIGH]
-Ta-da!
Isn't it beautiful?
I can't wait to try it out.
Maybe you me and Crystal could all go skating after Christmas.
-Olivia.
-I should call her right now, and thank her.
-Olivia, Livia, sweetie, I don't think
we're going to see Crystal anymore.
She just-- she's not who we thought she was.
-But I like her.
I like her a lot.
And I thought you did too.
-I know this is hard, baby.
But it's complicated.
-No, it's not!
It's not complicated at all.
You just won't give her a chance.
You won't give anybody a chance!
-Liv--
[DOOR SLAMS]
-Taxi!
-Olivia, come on.
Let's talk about this, please.
At least come and have some dinner.
-Just so you know, I hate the flute!
-Shame, ain't it?
A lot of folks around here are gonna miss that place.
Especially now, when they don't have much to celebrate.
Well, you have yourself a Merry Christmas.
-Frank, if I can get this place opened before Christmas,
will you promise me something?
-Oh, uh, well.
I don't ever make any promises.
I'm a betting man, remember?
And, unless you're Santa Claus, I
doubt that's a bet you'll want to place.
-Well, I think I'll take my chances.
And if I win, you have to share Christmas dinner with Derek.
Not out here, but inside.
-Oh.
-Do we have a bet?
[CART BELLS JINGLING]
MAN (ON RADIO): It is mayhem out here on Center Street,
but it is Christmas Eve, where people
are running around, trying to get all
their last minute shopping done.
In sports, the latest hockey game--
-(WHISPERING) Will you marry me?
Olivia, I'm going out.
Do you want to say goodbye?
OLIVIA (OFFSCREEN): Leave me alone!
-OK.
Great.
Well, Jennifer's here if you need her.
-All I can say is, thank goodness I found that letter.
I mean, Lord knows what she was planning.
She could have been some kind of stalker, femme fatale.
And to think you left her alone with Olivia.
-I don't think she'd hurt Olivia.
-You don't know that.
Sociopaths can seem very normal on the outside.
And then snap!
I'm going to run to the loo.
Be a doll, and order me the crab cakes.
I'll be right back.
Mwah!
[SIGH]
[MUSIC - JOCELYN ALICE, "TONIGHT"]
-All right, guys, come on.
Let's organize the supplies and-- and cooking right now.
-What's going on?
-What does it look like?
We're back in business.
-How?
The rent, we were locked out.
-Someone settled with the bank.
-Who?
-Someone who cares about this place as much as you do.
Someone you used to care about, before you
jumped to conclusions.
Derek, let me ask you a question.
How did you meet Laura?
-We were at a college football game.
She was in line behind me at the concession stand,
and I let her cut in.
-Um, hm.
So if you haven't gone to the game,
or if you hadn't gone to get a hot dog, or whatever it is you
boys eat at those sorts of things,
then you never would have met her.
Right?
-I guess.
-It's the same way you never would have met Crystal
if she hadn't found the letter.
That, my friend, is what we call fate.
-Olivia?
Livie!
Olivia!
-Hm.
[SIGH]
-OK.
I wish-- I wish-- this is crazy.
What do I think?
I'm gonna wake up tomorrow, and there he'll
be with a big red bow?
[CRYING]
-Hello?
Olivia, is that you?
What are you doing here?
Where's you dad?
-I left.
-By yourself?
-Um, Dad wouldn't understand.
-Oh, understand what?
-I wrote a letter to Santa this year,
so I didn't think I needed to come make my wish.
Then you came along, and I was sure he had got my letter
and let my wish come true.
Then Dad said I couldn't see you anymore.
So I guess I was wrong.
Santa must not have gotten my letter.
-So you decided to come and make your wish.
-But I think it's too late.
-[SIGH] I'm so sorry.
I should have told you.
I-- I found your letter.
At-- I was just walking and-- and it floated into my path.
-Which is exactly how Santa planned it.
-Daddy!
-Olivia!
Oh, oh, thank God!
[SIGH]
-[SIGH] You, um!
Thanks.
-I-- I didn't do anything.
I just happened to be here.
-I know.
There's a work for that.
Someone taught it to me again tonight.
Ha!
My heart hurt for so long that I stopped listening to it,
and only listened to what my head was telling me was right.
I just, um, I hope it's not too late
for me to start listening again to my heart.
-It's not too late!
-And here you go, a little roasted chestnut
stuffing with fresh cranberries and fresh sage.
-Yum, thanks, Pete.
Is that Frank?
-Oh, excuse me.
-You pulled it off.
-Yeah.
-Well, a bet's a bet.
[SIGH]
-You ready?
MAN (OFFSCREEN): Merry Christmas, Frank.
WOMEN (OFFSCREEN): Merry Christmas.
-Derek.
-Merry Christmas, Frank.
Let's get you something to eat.
-Oh, OK.
-Hi, Frank, I'm Pete.
FRANK (OFFSCREEN): Ah, nice to meet ya.
-Oh, it's so nice to meet you, too.
I'm so glad you're here.
Oh, look!
I've got this lovely roasted chestnut
and cranberry stuffing.
And we've got some turkey here, mashed potatoes.
WOMEN (OFFSCREEN): Oh, I know who's been nominated.
[CHEERING AND CLAPPING]
[MUSIC - JOCELYN ALICE, "FATE"]