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[instrumental music]
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♪ With a partridge in a pear tree ♪
♪ Lots of golden rings ♪
♪ The snow is coming down now and I know what that means ♪
♪ My true love you're coming been waiting way too long ♪
♪ Oh those turtle doves now ♪
♪ Are gonna sing their pretty song ♪
♪ Home and snow and mistletoe-oh-oh ♪
♪ Stars and bells and candles have it all up in a bow ♪
♪ Home and snow and mistletoe-oh-oh ♪
♪ Sweet warm apple cider and little hearts aglow ♪
♪ Wrap it all up in a bow-oh-oh ♪
♪ Whoa ♪
♪ Drummers drumming good songs ♪
♪ Pipers pipin' ♪
♪ Boughs of holly up now ♪
♪ Fa-la-la go trim the tree ♪
♪ Mid-winter at midnight woodland beauty ♪
♪ Get the wreath and stockings ring the bells merrily oh ♪
I'm sure, over the years,
a lot of you have heard that whole writer's rule,
don't write about your life, because no one cares about that.
But on the same token, you get that whole
"Write what you know."
So what's the difference?
I think the idea is that, at a general glance,
our lives are kind of boring.
But it's what we learn along the way,
in all of those hundreds of little moments
in our life story,
those things turn out to be brilliant when put to the page.
So your Maya Takes The Town books,
those are not at all based on you?
[chuckles] And why ever would you think that?
Well, besides the name similarities,
Maya, Mikaela, I mean, you both live in the same city,
you're both single, and you're both holiday-spiced,
latte-loving workaholics, right?
[clears throat]
What is your name, Mr. Back-row?
- Levi McGuire. - Well, Mr. McGuire...
While I appreciate your knowledge of my taste
in holiday-spiced lattes as seen here,
my relationship status is not public knowledge.
So how do you even know I'm single?
Um, are you not?
The character in my books, Maya,
is still single, yes.
But who knows,
that could always change in the last book. Guess we'll see.
Now I think that does it for our writer's workshop.
Anyone else have any questions?
Okay, great. Well, happy holidays.
And thank you so much for coming. Thank you.
[indistinct chatter]
Mikaela, hi, I...
Sorry, I-I don't mean to pry, but I had to ask.
I mean, what's the hold-up with the book?
Everyone's dying to read.
It's, um, it's still in the works, so...
- May I ask you what it's about? - Actually, no.
That is top secret information, but rest assured,
it will be out very soon.
Uh, Mr. McGuire, my agent Gigi, and my assistant Keifer.
Nice to meet you both.
And I'm so glad to hear that you're almost done.
I mean, I know how anxious fans have been.
Yes, yes. Thank you for the reminder.
Yeah, so I was wondering if I could ask you
a few questions, maybe pick your brain a little bit,
about your mother's renowned old holiday writers' retreat.
Are you, like, some kind of reporter?
No, no-not exactly. I'm, I write non-fiction.
I'm more so just a really big fan of her works.
I mean, she was brilliant, especially in her last book.
Well, thank you. I, um...
Actually, she's super busy finishing the book still,
but leave your card on the credenza if you like.
And please do grab a bag of yummy vegan sugar cookies
on your way out.
Right. Okay.
- Happy holidays. - Happy holidays!
- Merry Christmas! -[Mikaela] Happy holidays.
Hey, uh, you should think about reviving those retreats.
From what I've heard, they were something special.
Um, I cannot believe the nerve.
I think he was cute.
And it kinda seemed to me like he was flirting.
Oh!
[Gigi] Well, he was right about one thing.
A lot of people are asking about this book,
even the publishers are calling me every other day now.
Yeah, I know, and trust me, I have been going back and forth
over and over about the last 50 pages.
I think you just need to decide on an ending.
- Maybe one with Ben, hm? - No.
Maya cannot end up with Ben. I don't care what the fans want.
Maybe you just need a break, to take some time off
for the holidays, clear your head.
It's going to be fine. I'm going to finish it soon, I promise.
Great, just go home where there are no distractions
and figure it out, hm?
This workshop was good for you,
and now it's time to get back to Maya.
Anyway, I have to run now.
I have a holidate with a hunky nonprofit owner tonight,
so I have to go buy something conservative.
It's gonna be great, all right? Just write it.
Merry Christmas!
- Merry Christmas! -[Mikaela] Merry Christmas!
Decline all holiday invites and anything holiday-related
I have left. I have got to figure this out.
Got it.
[instrumental music]
-[cell phone ringing] -[Mikaela on phone] Hey, dad.
Is that my beautiful, successful star of a daughter?
More like your down-trodden daughter
at the moment. What are you up to?
I'm making a little steak and stir-fry for the last
of my guests before they head out tomorrow.
Mm. Steak and stir-fry. Sounds yummy.
It is, and I hope you're doing more for dinner
than that tofu takeout and the glass of pinot noir.
Not everyone can cook like you, dad.
Well, then you need to get home, so I can
feed you good and proper.
Yeah. Um, that's actually why I was calling.
I think I might need to stay home a bit longer for work.
Maybe you need to just come home
and work out here at the lake like your ma used to.
[Irving] Cured her writer's block every time.
Funny enough, this guy there today at the workshop
suggested that I revive mom's old holiday writers' retreats.
That's not the worst idea in the world.
What? Daddy, no!
- That's ridiculous! - Why is it ridiculous?
We can do it here at the chalet like your ma used to.
Oh, and you would be a great host.
But, dad...
that was mom's thing.
And it can be your thing.
Just think about it, will you?
Love you. Hope to see you soon.
Okay, I actually have no idea what I'm doing here,
but I am going to try to revive
my mother's annual holiday writers' retreats.
What? That's amazing, Mik. When?
This next coming Monday, I think?
Wow! Okay.
So we have a lot of work to do.
Yes. Exactly. That we do!
But we are both single and have no lives.
So, are you with me?
More than any man I've ever loved.
-[laughs] Wonderful! - Any pre-reqs?
Nope, just resume and cover letter
on why they should get the invite.
- Okay. - Oh!
And if Gigi calls, not a word.
Copy that.
- I am the face of silence. - You know what?
Maybe this is exactly what I needed after all.
- I'm feeling inspired already. - Aww!
Okay, we got work to do. Let's go.
So definitely Sharon Samuels.
She's a great writer and she's working on a holiday cookbook.
- Total shoe-in, right? - Yup. Sharon Samuels is in.
Who else?
Uh, I know you weren't crazy about this one,
but I feel like Olive Olsen is a must.
Keifer, I told you she's difficult.
And the only reason you want her
is because you love her musicals.
And that is not a good enough reason to invite her.
She's writing a new holiday musical!
-[squeals] Hello, relevant. - Okay.
I do like that, sure, but...
Plus, she even offered to plug your retreat on her next
musical's press tour right here in her letter. Aww...
Yeah, providing it's a success.
But what if she hates the retreat and bashes it instead?
Mikaela, you are New York Times' bestselling book author.
I wouldn't worry about it.
Plus, look at all these applications we got.
These are more than just your mother's fans.
They're your contemporaries, and now they want your inspiration.
[laughs] Well, good, because I'm counting on this inspiring me
the way it did my mother as well.
If this retreat doesn't cure my block,
nothing will.
I have complete faith,
but we still need to choose two more scribes,
besides Olive Olsen, of course.
[chuckles] Oh, actually, we just need one.
I told an old family friend
who works for my dad that he could have a spot.
He's trying to write his very first screenplay.
Oh! Cool! That sounds right up my alley.
I think you two will get along great.
Uh-huh.
Okay, um, how about your inspiration
for this whole retreat, Mr. Backseat Buddy?
How about not a chance?
- Mikaela, just hear me out. -[Mikaela] Hm?
This guy is a great published non-fiction writer
and he even edits.
Dabbles in political writing and some biography pieces.
Oh, he's kind of a genius.
Okay, just, let me see the resume.
Mm-hmm. Not bad.
Still a no!
-[groans] - Face of silence, remember?
Uh, mm.
[laptop keys clacking]
[cell phone vibrating]
Tracy, hi.
So did you get that interview
with Ms. Leighton for that big holiday piece
you promised me at the Happy?
I left my card. I'm just waiting for a call.
[Tracy] The holidays aren't waiting for her to call
you back.
Did you heard that she's going to revive
her mother's old retreat?
I did, yes. I applied last night.
Just crossing all my fingers now.
You can't write a retrospect with your fingers crossed.
Get over there and make sure you get a spot.
This is exactly the angle that we need.
The Christmas Queens' bestselling author's daughter
revives a legacy.
See, Levi? It's practically written itself already.
I hear you. I will get us that in-depth biography you need.
Promise.
[Keifer] All right, this retreat is officially on.
Oh, and I almost forgot, gift shop up at the lake wants
to know if the book signing is still on for tomorrow.
I guess, I just can't believe they still wanna have a signing
of my book that's two years old already.
Oh, come on.
It's your hometown. All of your biggest fans.
You're practically a legend up there.
And if they're not getting a new book,
more signings of the old one will do.
You're wrong. Maya is the legend.
She's the one they keep coming back for.
And after this delay, I'm surprised
they don't all hate Mikaela by now.
[laughs] No.
- Hi there. -[Levi] Hi.
Mikaela, hello. Um, may I come in?
Mr. McGuire, back again already, though I can't imagine why.
[chuckles] Uh, well, I saw that you're hosting
this incredible holiday retreat this weekend like I suggested,
and I was just curious why I didn't get an in...
I mean, you-you did get my application?
Yes, I'm aware that you applied, but, Mr. McGuire, we can't jus--
Levi is fine.
Okay, so then let me ask you.
Levi, have you even read one of my books?
I-I didn't know I was required to be a fan.
You're just a fan of my mother's work then.
I-I do appreciate her works, yeah.
So then what you applied for
is more intel on my late mother,
rather than the actual retreat.
[chuckles] That's not true. Look, I am in awe of you both.
I mean, yes, your mother's retreat is, well, historical.
What writer wouldn't leap at a shot to attend?
My mother started this retreat not only to help cure
seasonal writer's block, but even more so
to help fiction writers expand their creative horizons.
It wasn't made to give some non-fiction writer
material for his next satirical essay.
I wanna prove to myself that I'm more than all that.
Heck, I'll even come help people with their edits
if you need me to. I mean...
Please, I-I'm begging you.
T-this'd be a dream come true, and it's my only Christmas wish.
I'll think about it, all right?
So that means you have a spot?
I might have a spot.
Right. Okay. Thank you, really.
Well, okay. Buh-bye.
- I'm gonna leave. -[Mikaela] Yeah, okay, buh-bye.
See you, man.
[instrumental music]
[music continues]
- Hey, hey! - Oh, Mitchy!
[Mikaela laughs]
You always have this, like, Hollywood glow about you.
- How do I get some of that? - Oh, stop.
The only thing glowing is the shimmer in my foundation,
which trust me, is hiding all the bags
that I'm rocking under my...
Oh, please.
Give me all of that glow, because you are a goddess.
Okay, okay, coming from your handsome, flawless face?
- I'll take it. - And I'm gonna take that.
Oh, thank you.
So you excited?
Are you kidding me? I am thrilled!
And thank you, by the way, for reviving the retreat,
for letting me join.
Your mom would be so proud of you.
Well, I hope so.
[sighs] I hope that this retreat can do her
the slightest bit of justice.
Uh, but, hey, you need to let me pay for joining.
I'm not even an accomplished writer like the others are.
I'm not gonna have anything to contribute.
Accomplishment and contributions are relative, Mitchy.
You are a brilliant undiscovered writer. No.
And this whole retreat
is in the gift of the season of giving,
so it is free of charge to all of our guests,
just the way that my mom started it.
Well, I'm still gonna take your bag up to your room
because I've got a job to do.
Okay. Thank you.
Oh, it is so good to be home!
Oh, and something smells so good.
If that is my dad's turkey po' boys, I am gonna flip!
Come on! Dad!
So, what do you think?
Dad, you cannot make these again.
I mean, I want you to, but you just can't.
I'll make the healthy stuff for your guests, too,
but I had to have your fave for your arrival.
Not my fault you didn't come home Turkey Day.
Oh, I'm sorry.
You know, coming up with an ending
put a ton of pressure on me.
My editor said that if I don't finish soon,
she's gonna drop me.
So what? You haven't found the proper ending.
Your fans want it to be perfect, don't they?
Yeah, I know, but at this point
I'm just not sure I'm gonna be able to find
the happy ending everyone's looking for.
Well, you know what your mom used to say.
"Find your story in magic moments."
Right.
Yeah, well...
I just haven't had a lot of those in a while, you know?
Maybe that's why you're here.
Oh, don't think I haven't thought about
my daybed book corner.
I plan on taking full advantage, just like in school.
Good. Now how about real life?
You're not seeing anyone, are you?
I don't know, dad. Are you?
[laughs] Fine. Let's not talk about it.
[both laughing]
[instrumental music]
Thank you so much, and happy holidays!
I'd like to get signed, please.
No? I can't get signed?
What are you doing here, Levi?
I told you. I came to get signed.
You said you haven't even read one of my books.
Now's a good a time as any to start, right? I mean...
I've got nothing better going on.
This is the fourth in the series.
And it's a year old, and by now you should be
having a new book signing, yet here we are.
- I mean, who's counting? - Okay.
And what would you like it to say?
- Dear Levi, Merry Christmas. - Mm-hmm. Mm-hmm.
And since you jingled all the way here,
you are now invited to my retreat.
Oh, but that would be a disingenuous signing.
Well, let's make it ingenuous.
Okay, then...
Dear Levi, Merry Christmas.
And since you jingled all the way here,
on your way out, don't let the door hit you on your rear.
Mikaela.
Next!
Hi! Which one would you like?
Oh, wonderful.
Do you really think that reading my book
is gonna get you a spot on the retreat?
You know, I hear fans are hoping for her to end up with Ben,
this guy she's on and off again with.
But he's clearly wrong for her.
- Wow. - See.
You really are a fast reader.
Aren't all writers fast readers?
- I'm not. - Oh.
See, I'm learning so much already.
You are very lucky that I never filled that last spot
and I am feeling filled with the holiday spirit today.
W-wait. D-does that mean I'm in?
Let's just call it a trial phase in the event
that I don't find out you're crazy in the next day.
Sweet! That'll do just fine for me.
So! Whoa, where are we headed?
Don't you need to go home, pack?
It's two days before the retreat.
Nope. I brought all my stuff with me. I'm ready to rock.
Ugh. Okay, well, I guess you can follow me.
- Here you go. - Thank you.
You're very welcome. Here, darling.
- Thanks, dad. - Come on.
So, Levi, um, you live in LA, too, right?
Yes, sir. I'm on the East Side.
- Silver Lake. - Silver Lake?
Oh, Mikaela's just up the way in Toluca Lake, right?
And, uh, what kind of writing do you do?
Oh. I'm a yawn.
- I write non-fiction. - You kidding?
Back in school I wrote non-fiction.
- He writes non-fiction. - Oh, wow.
You ever do any true crime?
No crimes here, except this cocoa.
- He likes my cocoa. - Aww.
I'd love to read your writing someday.
- Of course. It'd be my pleasure. -[Irving] Fantastic.
[instrumental music]
- Mm. - Don't touch that.
Hickory-smoked ham.
And a cranberry cornmeal dressing.
- Mm... - That smells amazing!
Feel free to park that right over here.
And I wasn't expecting a full-on holiday menu this weekend.
Oh, I love hosting. It was what I was born to do.
And this casserole is proven to cure writer's block, right?
-[Irving] Yes, it is. - Ah. So it is writer's block.
That's why you haven't finished.
Fine. Yes. That is why I am not done.
I just don't know how it ends yet.
Well, maybe ask Maya what she wants.
- Ask Maya what she wants? - Yeah. You should talk to her.
She's in my head, Levi.
Exactly.
So, uh, when do the other guests arrive?
Uh, Keifer arrives tomorrow afternoon with Ms. Olsen,
and the others arrive Monday morning.
Wonderful. We will have the rooms ready.
[Mikaela] Thank you. Ugh.
It is going to be an exciting week.
- Dude. -[Mitchell] Ham, anyone?
[instrumental music]
What do you want, Maya?
What's next?
- How's the food? - It's good.
Great. Good morning.
- Morning! - Want some breakfast?
Oh, I am still stuffed from last night's feast,
but I will take this coffee.
- Oh, okay, where are you headed? - Oh, into town.
I have to do some last-minute Christmas shopping
before our guests arrive for tomorrow's retreat.
I'm-I'm done here. I can take you.
I kind of need a gift myself.
All right, then. Uh, are you ready now?
Sure. I just need to get my jacket.
Irv, thank you for this yummy breakfast.
- You got it. - Yeah.
Did he just call you Irv?
Uh, yeah. He just called me Irv.
Oh, no.
[Levi] Shopping for a new boyfriend?
-[Mikaela] Oh, please. -[Levi laughs]
Anyway, didn't you claim
you knew I was single at my workshop?
- Nah. Just a good guess. - Why?
Well, I mean, the engagement you broke off
with the basketball player was kind of a public affair.
- That was a year and a half ago. - I know.
Then you finished the book.
It came out, and then you toured.
Wow! You just know so much about my life, huh?
I don't know why you two broke up.
Good, because that doesn't concern you.
Is that why Maya's still single?
Is Ben sort of based on her ex?
I already told you.
Maya's not based on my life.
So, what kind of chocolates did you get?
They're not for me, they're farewell gifts
for all of you writers at the end of the retreat.
Yeah, but surely you got something
you think someone would like,
which means you probably like them, too. So what'd you get?
Caramel pecan milk chocolates,
dark chocolate peppermint bark, and--
- Cinnamon-spiced truffles. - How'd you know?
Well, those are my favorites, too.
Also, I heard you talking to the chocolatier.
[scoffs] So, we finally agree on something.
Wow. Who'd have thought?
You know, I always knew I had good taste,
but you just confirmed it, though.
But I also just proved you wrong.
- How so? - Maya doesn't like chocolate.
And I do. So see? There you go. She's more of a candy girl.
So, there goes your theory about me being her.
All right, maybe.
Or maybe Maya hasn't had good chocolate yet.
Okay. Maybe.
Anyway, all this talk about sweets has me hungry.
Is there any good places around here for us to eat?
I think I might know a place.
- Hm. - Come on. Up and up we go.
[wind howling]
- Thank you. -[Levi] Thank you, man.
Thanks. Mm.
Thanks for the help with the gift.
I am the worst shopper on Earth,
and my grams has, well, everything.
Well, it's nice of you to think of her. You close?
Oh, yeah. She raised me, actually.
My parents, well, they passed away
when I was a freshman in high school.
Oh. Wow. I'm... I'm so sorry.
My grams was great, though.
She let me get away with anything
as long as I got good grades.
She still says I'm the center of her universe.
Oh, well, I can definitely see that.
-[Levi chuckles] - She live in LA?
Yup. Um, off of 3rd and Robertson.
She's in this really fancy assisted-living situation.
Has all these bridge-club friends.
They're throwing a whole Christmas party.
It's gonna be lit, and I'm not just talking about the lights.
[laughs] Sounds like a fun party.
I had to forfeit all of mine
because I need to focus on the book situation.
Right. The situation. Hm.
♪ Season to be ♪
This chestnut soup, wow!
[chuckles] It was my mother's favorite.
Actually, this was her favorite restaurant up here,
so I'm glad we got to come.
Aww. I didn't realize. She ever do any writing here?
Oh, yeah. In fact, this was her table.
- What? - Yeah.
- This is insanely surreal. - Yes.
So you are, like, really a fan of my mother?
- Mm. - Huh. Funny.
You didn't strike me as the romantic-drama type.
Well, your mother's books were so much more than that.
It's like comfort food,
but intensely profound.
They just have, they just have a epic feel.
I hope that I can be half as good as her one day.
She was...
She was the best.
♪ 'Tis the season ♪
Well, based on the reading I've done the last few days,
I'd say you're not too far behind her.
[instrumental music]
Good afternoon. You must be, um...
Keifer. I'm Mikaela's assistant.
Ah, Keifer, Mitchell.
I usually fix things around here,
but I think I've been promoted to greeter duty.
Oh, well, seasons greetings, then.
Look at this place!
Be still my heart.
Oh, I love the wilderness.
Well, Mitchell, this is Ms. Olive Olsen.
You might know her from her musicals.
- Oh. -[Mikaela] Olive!
It is so nice to finally meet, meet you.
[chuckles] I am a, a big fan of your work.
- Oh, well, likewise. - Yeah.
Your books are top tier, and that's why we're here.
-[laughing] - And you are?
- Hi. Levi McGuire. Oh. - Hi.
Non-fiction writer in fictional recovery.
[laughs] Oh, but funny.
- So, who'd like some tea? - Me!
Oh, well, only if we can spill the tea at tea-time.
All right. Well, let's see what we can do.
- Right. -[indistinct chatter]
[Olive] Thank you. [Keifer] Yeah.
Whoa.
Wow! And you chose her over me?
Maybe you'll learn a thing or two.
So, Mikaela, I almost forgot to ask.
How is the book coming along, then?
Mm. Probably not the best question for the dinner table.
Or any other table.
Actually, it's fine,
because last night
I started working on the second half of my book.
I mean, I don't know where it's going, but it's going.
- Aww, Mik, that's great news! -[Mikaela chuckles]
Yeah. Please, do tell us more.
And please tell me she ends up with that
sweet hunk of a doctor, Ben.
Mm, I'm not so sure she will.
Oh. Okay. Well, uh...
I guess not every book needs a happy ending, does it?
Or maybe the ending will be happy
and happiness is just perspective.
[laughs] That's silly.
If not Ben, then who does she fall in love with?
Does she need to find love in the end?
- Is that like a requirement? - No.
But I guess if it's just left open-ended,
we can all just assume it's Ben, right?
Like a kinda choose- your-own-adventure ending?
Well, cheers, to choosing your adventure!
- Cheers. - Cheers.
There you go. Oh, didn't get ya.
Oh.
[instrumental music]
[Mikaela] And as Maya pulled in past the dilapidated
welcome sign to her quaint little hometown again
for the first time in over ten years,
she pulled on to the shoulder of the road
and climbed out into the falling snowflakes,
glistening all around her
like a thousand tiny memories of her childhood.
Then she spun around, welcoming them in
to rain and melt upon her open arms.
Good morning and welcome, Sharon.
It is so wonderful to have you here.
And my dad is a huge fan of your cookbooks,
so it is lovely to have you.
Well, thank you for having me here.
And you know what, I happen to be a huge fan
of your mother's work as well.
I mean, this retreat, I mean,
what an amazing legacy
for her to leave such a beautiful black woman.
And speaking of you, young lady,
I am a huge fan of your work as well.
I've read every one of your books,
and I am particularly excited about this next one.
Wow. Thank you. Coming from you, I'm, I'm flattered.
- Oh. It's okay. - Oh.
And this is my assistant, Keifer.
And he will help you with your things.
Hi, so nice to meet you. How was your drive up from San Diego?
Nice to meet you, too, and thank you very much.
Well, the drive, it was just beautiful.
It has been such a long time since I've seen snow.
Wow! My gracious!
This place is even more magical than I imagined.
- Here. - Here you go.
- Yeah. -[Mikaela chuckles]
Well, good morning, everyone. This is Sharon.
Sharon, Olive, Levi, Mitchell,
and, of course, my father, Irving.
Ah. Thank you. Ah, welcome, guests!
Uh, as most of you know, I will be your host
for the next three days, so if there's anything that you need,
please do not hesitate to ask
unless it's what time Santa stops by Christmas Eve.
That is top-secret information.
He usually reserves that one for the visiting kids.
As well as the adults, because we are never too old
to believe in Santa and a little Christmas magic.
- True, true. - Now, please have a seat.
- Dig in and enjoy the food. - Wow.
Oh, um, may I help you with your coat?
-[Sharon] Oh, thank you. - Of course.
You know what, I really have to say that
this cranberry baked oatmeal
is really something special.
Oh, thank you. Um, coming from you, that means everything.
And, hey, if you give me the secret recipe of one of yours,
I will definitely give you the secret recipe for that.
Okay. All right, thank you.
- You got yourself a deal. - Okay.
Well, maybe we should start by introducing ourselves.
Maybe everyone go around and share why they are here today.
And, Sharon, would you like to go first?
Oh. Uh, sure, okay.
Hi. Sharon Samuels.
My favorite thing to do is cook.
Yes, my, my mother, she was this amazing Creole cook
and she ran her own restaurant in New Orleans
for most of her life, so naturally,
I became quite the adventurous cook myself.
Right, so I decided, you know, why not?
Why not write our family's very first Creole Christmas cookbook?
Right, and then, but then, then I thought, you know what,
these recipes, they, they really need to embody
the, the spirit of the season.
So, here I am.
- Wow. -[Olive squealing]
Ooh-ooh, me next, me next!
I am here because I am still,
still, uh, two songs short of my new musical,
and I just really needed to escape the Hollywood
holiday bustle, which I normally live for,
um, to focus and finish it.
[Mikaela] Well, seems like you've come to the right place.
I think I am.
And now, um, Levi.
Okay. I write non-fiction.
I started in journalism. Sometimes political satire.
Sometimes bios, edit. Copy edits.
Boring things float my boat.
- Yeah. -[Mikaela] Okay, great.
And my little Mitchell.
Hello, my name is Mitchell.
I work here, so feel free to still call me
when your hot water goes out, uh...
Mikaela was so gracious for letting me join you guys
as I am an aspiring screenwriter.
I'm still working on my first script,
uh, rewriting it and rewriting it and rewriting it,
so I'm hoping with this retreat, it will help me finish it.
Keifer, would you like to share something about yourself?
Yes, I am also on the job as everyone knows,
um, but I'm also stellar with creative development
and planning to partake in the festivities.
And I'm also here to help you guys hone your craft, so...
Also I've worked in script development
and I would really like to take a look at your script.
Wow! Uh, can I think about it?
- Sure. -[Mikaela] Yes.
But let's remember what this retreat is about.
You're here to bare your creative writing souls
and get back to why you fell in love with writing
in the first place, so, with that being said,
at noon we will be meeting in the sunroom
for our first retreat workshop.
Okay, so do not forget to bring your journals.
- Okay. - All right. Great.
[indistinct chatter]
Gigi, hi, sorry I missed your call earlier.
- We were having breakfast. - Well, hello. How's the retreat?
-Uh, wait, how did you... [Gigi] I'm at your office.
I was sitting at your computer, going through your inbox, duh.
Look, I know it sounds crazy,
but I've already started getting all new ideas
since I've gotten here.
Any ideas for a new editor?
Because Sabrina is officially out, and I think that
your publishing deal isn't too far behind her at this point.
If Sabrina has to move on, I get it.
But I really think that this retreat
is going to be good for me.
And I promise, I will have something
for the publishers to look at soon.
Fine, before the ball drops on my life and your career,
come New Year's Eve, hm? I'm counting on you.
Who here is ready for some of my creative cocoa?
Guaranteed to ignite the imagination.
- Wow! - That's nice.
- Thank you. - Thank you.
Excuse me, I'm gonna get lunch started.
- Aww, thank you, dad. - All right.
Wow! I'm feeling creative already.
So are we ready to get started then?
So what is our line-up of events, anyhow?
Yes, so today we start
with our Two Turtledove Tales
and tomorrow will be
our Prancer's Fireside Poetry Hour
and on our last day we will have
our Jack Frost's Frozen Freehand Writers' Challenge.
[laughs] Sounds like we got our work cut out for us.
-[laughing] - I may need more cocoa.
Don't worry, it won't be all work and no play
because true to the season, we will be hosting
our 'Twas The Treasure Hunt
Before Christmas Event Wednesday night.
Ooh! Exciting! I live for the hunt.
[laughing]
Oh, and lastly, if you don't already have plans
and you wanna stay for Christmas Eve,
my dad makes a mean feast for Christmas Eve.
So you are all welcome.
- Yes! - That's very cool.
Okay, so let's get started on our first workshop.
[Mikaela] Two Turtledove Tales is something we created
to get that creative cocoa
flowing freely for this retreat.
I challenge each of you to write not one,
but two short stories,
about two characters in the same scenario.
It can be any genre, but each story will be told
from each character's perspective.
Can be first or third-person narratives, doesn't matter.
What does matter is that we're able to see
two versions of one story
through two very different lenses.
♪ Alone ♪
♪ I hope you know ♪
♪ I've been counting down days ♪
♪ Till you're in my arms and I'm home ♪
♪ Yeah I'm getting all the presents ♪
♪ Rudolph will be jealous ♪
♪ Lighting the tree and we can dance ♪
♪ Kiss you in the moonlight holding you so tight ♪
♪ Yeah I'm comin' home tonight ♪
♪ I'm gonna be with you for Christmas ♪
♪ Ain't no way I'm gonna miss this ♪
♪ Baby wait up for me ♪
♪ Wait up for me me ♪
♪ I'm gonna be with you for Christmas ♪
♪ You're at the top of my wish list ♪
♪ Baby wait up for me ♪ Wait up for me ♪
Hey! Figured I shouldn't eat all our chocolate alone.
Did I catch you mid-sentence?
Thank you. You caught me at the end of a paragraph.
Impeccable timing.
So are you done with your story or what?
Actually, I had to fake a break.
Olive wanted to swap stories, and I think it was
just an excuse to sit next to me, I-I think.
Well, she is a beautiful, smart, strong woman.
Take it as a compliment.
Only problem is, between us,
I am, sadly, not a fan of musicals.
Ah. Mm. Oh.
Sunken before you even set sail?
And also story of my life in relationships, actually.
Let me guess, you're the kind of guy who falls for women
who want more from you than you're ready to give.
N-nah, I actually fall for women
whose emotions are awake, yet unavailable.
So when was your last sunken ship?
Last date? Ever so occasionally.
Last relationship?
- Five years ago. - Yikes.
Ended so badly that it warranted a half decade worth of repairs.
But even that one never met my grams.
Oh, well, maybe she should have met your grams
'cause then she would've told you that
she was all wrong for you, you think?
Touche. You could be right.
All right, I spilled my heart to you.
Your turn.
- My turn to what? - You gotta tell me.
Why the break-up with the tall hunky, B-ball boy?
He loved me when things were good.
Like, a lot.
And things were good
until my mother passed.
And he just, he just couldn't handle me at my worst.
Well, I guess it's better to know now
than ten years down the line, huh?
Because if he can't handle the first worst moment,
then what about the rest? 'Cause life's full of those roadblocks.
Yeah. Well, I thought the same thing.
That's why I ended it.
- I just need someone that-- - Gets it?
[Levi] Ooh. Ah.
So how's your two turtledove tales coming along then?
- My turtledove tales? - Uh-huh.
I am in the middle of finishing my book,
or trying to, at least.
And Maya is finally headed towards the finish line,
just not sure where she is headed exactly.
Mm, what is she doing at the moment?
- I'm not telling. - Oh, come on. Tell me.
[chuckles] Ugh, fine.
She's headed home for the holidays.
Oh, not unlike her author, huh,
who is nothing like her whatsoever.
Okay, fine, yes, of course!
There are parallels, of course,
but mostly it's because it was time for her to come home.
She had talked about it way too much.
You know, I am currently reading the digital version
of the first book now, and I gotta say,
what happened to that Jerome guy?
That civil attorney who she always fights with.
-[sighs] Jerome? Oh, yeah. - Mm-hmm.
Yeah, he was in and out of the first three books,
but when she started working in divorce,
there just wasn't much of a need for him anymore.
Too bad, 'cause I liked her for him.
Wondering what he's doing lately.
No idea.
And I'm not sure I like him for her.
- Oh. - But maybe I'll ask him. Hm.
-[Mikaela chuckles] - Okay.
[Irving] There it is. Yup.
- Oh, hey. - Wow! What is all this?
This is my dark chocolate Chex Mix.
Wouldn't have got chocolates in town
had we known you were baking.
Oh, well, this is for all
the kids down at the theater
doing a dress rehearsal
for A Christmas Carol.
- You have to try these, though. - Oh, yes.
There you go.
- Well? Yeah? - Mm-hmm.
This is dangerous.
His entire menu is. Uh, can we help?
Yeah, let's put this in some bags.
[Levi] Ugh.
[indistinct chatter]
I always knew we were gonna have another great writer
in the family just like her mother,
even when she was a kid.
- How'd you know? - Well...
She used to sneak into her mother's office, late at night,
and not only read the books she was too young to read,
but she'd also read her mother's book.
And back then Tanya was still typing her books out
on an old-school typewriter, and she kept the pages
in a thick folder on the desk.
But we knew she was sneaking in because in the morning,
some of the pages had a little fold on them, not so subtle.
I thought I was being surreptitious.
- Sadly, you still think you are. -[Mikaela] So what about you?
When did you know you were gonna be a writer?
Actually, it was in third grade when we lost our family dog.
Hm, Jessie. I was crushed.
We had a writing assignment and I had to write a eulogy
for the dog, a long, emotional one
about her life and her legacy.
So, my third-grade teacher called my parents and said,
"This kid needs to write. This is his calling."
So my parents, they got me this box-looking word processor,
and I just started writing everything. Well...
I still got that story of Jessie somewhere, though.
Well, I would pay good money to read that story now.
Oh, I'm sorry, I didn't notice. Is it 4:00 already?
I have to go and start dinner for the rest of the crew.
Well, I can go into town and drop these off for you.
Could you do that for me? It's not gonna interrupt you, is it?
- No, no, no. We'd be happy to. -[Irving] Thank you.
Uh, don't you have a story to finish?
Oh, I'm-I'm as fast of a writer as I am a reader.
[Irving chuckles]
- All right. -[Irving] Thank you. All right.
- Can you get the door? - I got it.
[both] Oh.
Let's try the other side. Yeah.
- Oh. - Oh, no! My book!
Oh, no. Oh, no.
I can't believe they flew so far.
Sheesh! Why do you still print your pages?
Seems a little outdated, doesn't it?
Hey, I use 100%
post-consumer recycled paper, chlorine-free, okay, buddy?
[Levi] Yeah, I just, just don't see the need for it.
I don't know, it-it's just something romantic,
you know, having a hard copy, and I can easily skim through it
and make changes and notes.
Maybe it reminds me of when my mom
would write her books and I would sneak in and read them.
Guess that's a good reason, you know?
I'm jealous of the relationship you have with your parents.
And the whole writing thing...
My grandpa, he didn't want me to be a writer.
He said it wasn't practical.
Yeah, well, that's not uncommon.
I hear that a lot at writers' workshops.
And to be honest, you know, some, uh, writers
could use their parents' advice, but you, you're a great writer.
- Thank you. - Well...
You know, this was my mom's favorite spot
to write on the property. Her own little secret garden.
- It's beautiful. -[Mikaela] Yeah.
When I was little, she used to say
that if you listened closely enough,
you can hear the little woodland creatures and fairies,
and they will give you magical ideas for free.
And so I would be out here
waiting for hours, listening.
But sometimes, sometimes
I thought I could hear them.
Did she have, like, a place she sat?
Oh, yeah, there's a rocking bench there
and a little tea table there
and a little bird feeder and water feeder there.
- Yeah. - What happened to it?
I don't know. I, I guess it just got old.
- You know, my dad replaced it. - Hm.
I, I think it hurt him to come out here, so...
He prefers the lakeside where we spread her ashes.
You know, it's crazy to think
that fairies and woodland critters are responsible
for the books we've come to love over the years.
Hm.
Yoo-hoo! Hello, you two!
- Oh. Hm. - What?
- What is up? - Uh, oh.
Oh, this, my, my book just flew all over the place
and-and he was helping me get it, and it was quite the ordeal.
[laughs] Well, I have to say,
this is just such a cozy little
cute snow-angel chalet out here.
You know, I am just gonna slay
those Prancer fireside poem vibes, okay?
Oh? Uh, a-a-and did you two finish your short stories?
I did. I did. Like a fox to your inbox. What?
- Oh! Oh! - Oh!
So, yeah, I was just gonna take a long walk.
Uh, anybody, anybody, um, wanna join me?
Oh, actually, we have to get a basket
to the kids in town, so...
- Oh. - We probably should get going.
- Oh, yeah. - I'm-I'm...
I'm gonna take the basket to the car.
- Okay. - Where'd you leave it?
- Oh, there. - Okay.
-[Mikaela] Well... - Well...
[laughs] Actually...
he is single, right?
Uh...
Tsk. Hm.
Hm?
Hm. Oh, my goodness, you are cooking with Creole tonight.
You know, I could smell it all the way across the chalet.
Yes, I am.
- Did you finish your homework? - I did.
And, yeah, I have to admit, I really enjoyed the assignment.
It has been a long time since I've written
anything fun and fictional.
A toast to your imagination.
May it never grow too old
for a little fun and a little bit of fiction.
Oh. Cheers. I like that.
Oh. Would you like to try some of this?
Mm. Absolutely. Yes, please, okay.
Okay. All right, here we go.
Mm, mm!
Oh, my gosh! That is heavenly.
- You like it? - Oh, my G... Abs...
That is definitely going into my cookbook.
Yes, Irving's herb-crusted rib roast,
guaranteed to bring your holiday guests
right up to your doorstep.
Thank you. You can have it.
And, um, if you don't mind,
what are some of your featured cookbook cuisines?
Wow, um,
that's kind of a tough one, but, uh, I'd have to...
Don't let me interrupt you. Come on, come on.
Uh, let's see, I would have to say that one of my favorites
is my crawfish cornbread dressing,
my bourbon-butter sweet-potato halves, all topped off with
a humongous slice of my praline caramel-pumpkin loaf. Ha-ha!
Yes, you know, just a, just a little tee nine chee bit, right?
You know, to kickstart the hibernation. Hello.
I just decided.
I wanna cook that for the Christmas Eve feast this year.
Is that all right? Can I do that?
I'm-I'm honored, but I, I, I, don't know
if I'll be able to stay for Christmas Eve.
Oh, uh, that's okay.
You can invite your husband, boyfriend, wife up here.
I appreciate that, but I actually
don't have any of those. Yeah.
Well, I was married once, just many moons ago,
to a man whose name shall not be repeated.
And what-what about you? Any love on the mountain?
No. Nah, well, I mean, uh, not since my wife left us.
Ah, it's, I don't know, it's just not something
that I wanted to pursue.
Oh, okay.
But I do hate to cook for myself alone, so a lot of times
I'll book discounted rates to, uh, you know,
get warm bodies up here.
Cheers to a full house this Christmas.
Full house this Christmas.
Hey, guys!
- Hey, you're back. - Hey!
- How was the drop? - The kids loved it.
And we even stayed for a little of the rehearsal.
- Aww. - Ugh.
I remember playing the Ghost of Christmas Future
when I was a kid. I need to recreate that look.
Ooh! Maybe I should even do that for Christmas Eve?
Yes, oh, please. Oh, this I have to see.
So what have you all been up to? Did you finish your shorts?
We did, and we decided to reward ourselves
with a little hot toddy teatime.
- Oh? - Would either of you like one?
- I would. You? - Uh, well...
I'd love to, but I can't.
I actually need to get started on reading those shorts
before dinner, but if you'll excuse me. Um, have fun.
-[Keifer] Aww! - See ya.
So, Olive, tell us everything about the musical
that you're almost done writing.
Uh, Keifer says it's Christmas-themed?
It is.
Ooh, we plan to open on Broadway next year.
It's called Sleigh Belles Of The Ball.
-[chuckles] Here you go. - Oh, thank you.
You're welcome. It's about these three very different sisters
all competing for the love of this
salt-of-the-Earth-type groundskeeper
who works on the family ranch, at Christmas time!
Oh! I'm all into that, too. Yes!
You work so much in New York,
I'm surprised you just don't live there.
Oh. Oh, it's funny you should ask.
See, I have a place there, too, but much like a songbird,
I prefer to fly south for the winter.
Especially this year, because I just went through
this awful off-Broadway breakup, and am now totally single.
Oh, no. So sorry to hear that.
Oh, don't be.
Oh, it was all my undoing. Anyway, I'm fine.
I've met more than enough catches during my migration.
- Is that so now? -[Olive] Mm-hmm.
- I just need to pick one. - Well, good for you.
Who doesn't love a little Christmas romance
at a winter retreat?
-[Keifer] I'll cheers to that. - Cheers.
Cheers.
-[Mitchell] Cheers. - Yes.
[instrumental music]
Good morning, early-bird bookworm.
Mm, morning.
Wow. Halfway through my second book. Impressive.
What can I say? I mean, Maya takes my mornings, too.
[chuckles] Oh. Reindeer Romances.
"The tale of the little male reindeer pining for the love
of the most beautiful and regal reindeer of them all."
Yup. Did you enjoy it?
-[Mikaela] I did. - Huh.
But I did have some issues
with her side of the same story.
There was a few places that were off.
Yeah? How so?
I think she's a lot more vulnerable
than you've made her out to be.
I mean, maybe she loves to roam ahead of the herd
because she's been hurt and afraid to open up again.
Mm.
Well, it is my first time writing from the POV
of a complex lady reindeer,
so I appreciate any additional insight you could give.
It's hard to open yourself up to love again
when you've lost the person you love the most.
My mom was everything to me.
And I lost her and my fiance...
seems like in the blink of an eye.
You know, I know what it's like to lose people you love
in the blink of an eye.
I lost my parents at the same time as well.
But if you choose not to love again,
we're only missing out on the very thing
that makes life worth living to start.
You're a lot sweeter than I originally pegged you to be.
There's something about you that's just comfortable...
except when you're trying to be funny.
It's been nice having you.
It's been nice being here.
But look, there's something that I wanted to talk--
Look, I know, I know you're a fan of my mom
and that that's the real reason you came.
It's okay. You know, it's a good reason.
Right, but I wanted to ask if...
if-if you're okay with it, I-I don't know if,
if I maybe write a bio or a piece about your mom's legacy.
We'd need to discuss it some more,
but I think that if anyone would be good at sharing
how wonderful she was, you'd be a good fit.
[Tracy on voicemail] You've reached Tracy.
Leave me a message.
Trace. Hey, it's, uh, Levi.
I-I just wanted to say that this isn't the year
for this whole retrospect.
I have so many amazing things to share
and it's just not the right time right now.
Things, they move a little slower up here
and I'm actually learning to be thankful for that.
Anyway, look, I'm-I'm sorry.
And I understand if you don't wanna commission me anymore
for leaving you hanging like this,
but I really hope you'll let me have another shot next year.
All right, um, well, call me back when you can.
Oh. Wonder what that was about, do you think?
No idea.
[Keifer] Wow, those look amazing!
That's homemade cinnamon Graham.
That tastes even better than it looks.
A little bit of mallow magic. Please enjoy.
- Yes. - Ooh. Oh.
-[shuddering] - Oh. You sound so cold.
- Ooh, I am a little bit. - I got you. I got you.
Oh. Thanks. Such a gentleman.
Uh, and-and we can pass this candy cane
for whoever would like to go first.
- Okay, I'll go! - All right.
Okay. Um, all right, okay. Okay.
- So, my poem is called Imagine. -[Irving] Ah.
"Imagine a place where wild things are,
imagine this place, imagine how far.
Imagine falling down a white rabbit's hole,
only to find out it has swallowed you whole.
Imagine mining through caves with dwarves never seen,
or diving with scaly mermaids
in lagoons of deep green.
Imagine Father Christmas,
Jack Frost and me,
calling kids upon a sleigh.
Hey, kid, come to this world and see!
Imagine riding
the largest long-gone dinosaur
and finding out that your imagination
is but a key without a door..."
- Wow. Nice job. - Amazing.
All right, all right, all right, uh, who's next?
- You. - I'm not going after that.
- No way! Nope! - Oh, come on!
- And, uh, Levi, your turn. - Yeah.
Uh. I'll hold your mallow for you.
[Olive] Let's go. Come on, somebody's got to go.
- Come on. -[Irving] There you go.
[Olive] There you go. Take your candy cane.
Ooh.
[chuckles] Um, so my poem is called Blue For You.
"There was once the black to run my hand through above your neck,
and the brown gaze that pierced me
from across our crowded parties.
But there was a blue tint to everything you wore...
blue even if it didn't have blue,
because in my eyes you were always a little blue.
My heart used to tell me all lies.
Your life is full. Your job is full.
Your heart is full.
Now I know my life is too light,
my job is too easy, my heart is too empty.
But now they are all blue to me, too.
There is blue consuming the empty space
where you used to stand next to me,
covered in colors, but blue, and glowing from head to toe,
There is blue on the walls where our love once hung
in pictures of you and me.
There is even blue noise in the sounds of our favorite songs,
unfamiliar now and harsh,
And there's blue in my eyes.
All I can see...
is that I'm empty without you."
Well, uh, that was beautiful.
Thank you.
[indistinct chatter]
- Oh. - Ooh. Uh, who's next?
- Sharon? - Uh, oh, um, okay.
Fine, 'cause I sure enough do not wanna go last.
- You got this. - Here. Can you hold that for me?
- Sure. - All right.
All right, here we go. Okay.
And just how did you know that my favorite color is blue,
aside from powder pink?
[instrumental music]
-[clears throat] - Oh. Wow. Okay.
Uh, what's all this?
Well, I tried to find the best that I could find in town.
They didn't have a lot of Creole options,
but I did buy everything that I could find.
You did say that you wanted to make my cookbook menu
for the Christmas Eve feast, right?
- Yes, I did. - Okay, well...
I figured I've still got so much work left to do
on the cookbook, that if it's okay with you,
we would just jump right around in there
and try to perfect some of these recipes together.
But the only problem is is that there weren't a lot
of Creole spices left in town.
Well, you're in luck because I pre-ordered
just about everything that you're gonna need.
[chuckles] Look at you.
My secret sauce.
Okay, well, I guess this means it was meant to be.
I guess it was.
We got our work cut out
for us then.
Wait, so does that mean that you're gonna
stay through the Christmas holidays?
I, I suppose so.
I really don't have anywhere else to be, so why not?
Good morning, everyone.
Oh. Has anyone seen Levi?
Uh, I saw him this morning.
He was headed into town, I believe.
Oh, okay.
Uh, well then, today is
Jack Frost's Freehand Challenge.
Now that we have the creative cocoa flowing from within,
you get to focus on yourselves today, no matter what that is.
Now, I know that Sharon is working hard on her cookbook
and, Olive, you have songs to write,
and, of course, Mitchell is writing
our next blockbuster action flick.
So take the time to do you, and we can discuss
the New Year's newsletter when Levi gets back. Sound good?
- Yeah. -[Mikaela] Great.
Okay, great. Well, I will let you get to it.
♪ Hey ♪
[upbeat music]
We gonna put one and two.
Wait, wait, wait. What-what-what are you doing?
- That's, it's just too much. -[Irving] It's two tablespoons.
- That's the recipe. - No, no!
- It's just too much. Yes. - You wanna taste it?
Come on.
- Okay. - There.
Try it. What do you think? It's perfect, right?
- Um... - What are you...
-[laughs] - Now it's perfect.
Okay.
♪ Eight to eighty we're all just kids ♪
♪ We can't wait till the 25th ♪
♪ It's time now ♪
♪ For the countdown to Christmas ♪
♪ Right now it's the countdown to Christmas ♪
Hm, I think I know what someone's putting in her
New Year's newsletter besides wanting to finish her book.
What are you talking about?
Come on. Spill it.
- You two kissed? -[scoffs]
Have you and Mitchell kissed?
No. I'm keeping it professional.
I'm not gonna ask him out until the week's over.
Hm, well, then me, too, I am not asking Levi out
until he asks me out first.
[laughs] Aww, Mik, I'm so happy for you.
I haven't seen you like this since... ever.
Well, I am just ecstatic that the second half of my book
is finally coming to me.
Uh-uh. Right. Oh, yeah, that's all.
Oh, yeah. Sure. Oh, that's it. Yeah.
- Okay. -[Mikaela laughs]
Oh, by the way, did he, like, ever ask you the questions
he said he wanted to pick your brain about?
Nope, I mean, he asked me questions, sure,
but not like an interrogation. Why?
No, no reason, I just, I heard him on the phone
talking about some project he was commissioned for.
But it's really none of my business.
I was just wondering.
And what are you working on over there?
I'm actually just finishing up notes on Mitchell's script.
You know what, it's really quite good, actually.
And I'm not even saying that in a biased way.
Well then, I guess you'll have to go tell him the good news
when you're done working on it, huh?
Oh. If I must, I must.
[laughs]
Need some help with that?
- Oh, thank you kindly. - Yeah.
It's gonna get a lot chillier tonight.
- Oh, yeah? - Might even see some snow.
Hm, perfect way to start Christmas Eve.
- You bet. - Yeah.
So I, um, finished your script.
- And? - Well, you were right.
Technically there were some issues.
I mean, there's some major structural flaws,
and a couple of plot holes here and there
that need fleshing out, and if I'm being honest,
the story is a bit formulaic as well.
But all that aside,
the dialogue was great,
the characters are rich, deep, complex,
and more so than anything else, very likable.
And where the story sits in a formula, God, you went
above and beyond to break the mold with your hero's journey.
- Do you really mean that? - Yeah.
I mean, I just thought, the world's first gay superhero.
Am I crazy? The world's not ready for that!
You know what, I thought the exact same thing at first,
but I think they are.
Are you seriously telling me you're
one chapter from the finish line?
- That's what I'm telling you. -[Gigi] Oh, Mikaela.
You just made all my Christmas wishes come true!
And here I thought the retreat was going to be
a complete waste.
I guess what they say is true.
A mother always knows best, huh?
I guess so, unless it's my mother.
- Merry Christmas, Geeg. - Merry Christmas!
Hey, mister! Where have you been all day?
Oh, I just had a few gifts to pick up in town
for my fellow writers.
Oh, I see.
Well, you missed most of
Jack Frost's Freehand Session.
Ah, it's fine, I'm actually
all caught up in my personal projects.
But I was thinking of a new one if you might be game for it.
Oh, yeah? What's that?
I'd love to edit your new book.
I mean, it-it would be an honor, really.
You did say your original editor backed out recently, right?
Uh, I-I-I did, yeah, but, um...
Wow. I mean, that's just...
It would just mean us spending a lot of time together.
I mean, sounds perfect to me.
Um...
Can I, can I take a moment to think about it?
Take all the time you need. I'm not going anywhere.
All right, who is ready to play
'Twas The Treasure Hunt Before Christmas?
Ooh, me, me, me!
All right, so, um, how exactly do we play this again?
There's three notes folded inside,
each one a clue to where Secret Santa's stockings hide.
Whomever is brave enough to reach in first
will pick a partner, for better or for worse.
- Who's gonna be first? - I'll go first.
- I love the enthusiasm. - Okay.
- Oh.
- All right. - Uh, stop, don't.
- What do we do now? - Now you go find it.
- All right. -[laughing]
- All right, who's next? - I'll go.
Um, all righty.
- You. Come on. - Thank God.
All right, um, so, uh...
[indistinct whispering]
- You think? - We-we could try it.
We'll give it a try. All right. And we're off!
All right, there's one left saved for the two of you.
Okay.
- Irv, do you mind? - Sure.
Thanks. Thanks, man.
- Okay, let's go. - Let's go.
Ooh. Whoa.
Okay, I'm gonna check in here. No.
Why don't we check the secret bookshelf?
- Secret bookshelf? - Yeah.
What?
All right, come on, watch your step, careful, all right.
Okay, um... Gosh, I don't know.
Maybe when this thing says loft, do you...
Didn't actually mean the loft. Okay, just... Uh...
I-I don't know. What-what do you think?
Where else do you think it could be?
Hello?
[chuckles] Oh, it has to be my mother's secret garden.
- Hm. -[Mikaela chuckles]
[instrumental music]
Levi, did you do this?
[Levi] I figured if you're going to revive her retreat,
you might wanna revive her favorite place to write, too.
Levi, I... I don't know what to say.
- D-did my dad... - Yeah.
I talked to him this morning and he said I could.
He said you were ready, and if you were, he was, too.
This is amazing, you know, it's even more magical
than I remember it when I was a kid.
And where did you find two turtledoves?
Oh, um, you know, Santa's secret stockings.
- Duh! - Oh. Is that so?
- Mm-hmm. - Wait, there it is!
Oh!
Ah!
All right.
- You do the honors. - Hm.
Mistletoe? Jeez, dad. How original.
You know, the moment kinda writes itself already.
[Olive] Your piece on her mother
certainly won't write itself, though.
- I'm sorry? - I'm sorry, Mikaela.
And I'm sorry I read your journal,
but, honestly, I would've expected more from you.
What is she talking about, piece?
Look, you know when I asked yesterday
if I could at some point
write a bio or a piece on your mom's legacy?
Yeah, but I said I would think about it.
Right, and when you said that,
I knew it wasn't the right time, so I--
I-it wasn't the right time for what?
What is in that journal?
Look, Mikaela,
when I first came to your workshop,
I was contracted to do a retrospect on your mother.
A little, a little holiday piece in The Happy Angeleno.
And at the time it wasn't something that I thought
I could write unless you answer some questions.
So you had to get close to me
so you could get the real inside scoop on her life.
Mikaela, you know that site isn't some tabloid,
some, some gossip. And I'm not even a reporter.
We just wanted to share some fascinating facts
about your mom's legacy because so many people love her,
and so many people wanna know so much more about her.
We thought that it would be something special for everyone
to hear and to enjoy during the holidays.
But it wasn't your story to tell!
I know, I know.
And that's why I called my boss yesterday
to tell her I couldn't do the piece.
- And that it just wasn't-- - And that what?
Oh, and that you had fallen for her daughter
after using her to get into the retreat for your piece?
I mean, w-was any of this real?
Of course. Of course it was, Mikaela.
- I have fallen for you-- - No.
You are a great liar.
So how can I believe anything you say is real?
Oh, my God.
You know, you should be a fiction writer
because you definitely had me fooled there.
Oh.
[indistinct chatter]
- So cute. -[door opens]
-[Mitchell] I love this. -[door shuts]
- Don't. - Mikaela?
- Excuse me. - What happened?
I don't know.
[instrumental music]
She didn't come down for breakfast.
Right, when her mom left us,
she, uh, didn't eat for a week. Couldn't get her to move.
She just sat and stared out her window and...
I don't expect this is gonna be any different.
I finished my songs yesterday.
Was this before or after you blew up the entire retreat
because you were upset over your little crush?
In her defense, he was lying to us.
[instrumental music]
[footsteps approaching]
I'm guessing it's a long shot to get you to eat,
but Sharon's recipes are even better than mine.
Thanks, daddy.
- There you go. - Mm-hmm.
You come out here to talk to her?
Yeah. I guess.
Not much to say, though.
Maybe this was all just a big mistake.
Oh, don't say that, honey.
This is some of the most fun I've had since your mom passed.
Having all these amazing people out here,
they didn't feel like my normal guests
that I was giving a hot meal to.
It started to feel like... home again.
- Yeah, it did, didn't it? - Mm-hmm.
And this guy Levi,
I think his feelings for you are real.
When he showed up at the crack of dawn
wanting to revive your mother's secret garden?
You can't fake that, honey.
But that doesn't change where his intentions were
from the start.
But is it so bad he wants
to tell your mother's story?
I mean, you and I haven't been the best at doing her justice.
Yeah. I guess you're right about that.
I don't know, it's just,
growing up, mom was always in the spotlight.
And then when I grew up, suddenly I was in the spotlight,
and, and nothing ever felt sacred.
So when we lost her,
I just wanted to protect that,
just that little part of her,
that little part that we had left.
Yeah, I guess it's okay to wanna protect
the little parts in between
and how hard it was for you and me in the end.
But your mom's life was so much more
than what she gave you and me.
She gave so much to so many.
Kind of like you're doing now.
All of those things?
The gifts that you and your mother were given,
they're not just for you and me.
Thank you, dad, for being the best.
Hm.
- Thanks, dad. - Of course.
Mikaela?
- Hey. -[Olive] Hey.
I'm sorry for being me, sometimes.
But I think you should see this.
Okay.
[instrumental music]
[laughing]
Cheers to the retreat!
[all] To the retreat!
So, what are the chances you might come out again next year?
To write your next cookbook, perhaps?
Well, I told Mikaela when I arrived
that, uh, I would retire here.
So I'd say it was very probable.
Oh.
[Olive] No, but I really do love Broadway.
- So I'm so excited. I know. -[Mikaela] Well, I am too.
[Olive] So you can come anytime. [Mikaela] I can't wait, it's...
[Olive] Look at the two. Look at Mitchell.
So, you two gonna write this script together now or what?
Uh, I think so.
Keifer's just really good with details in a way
that I am not.
I also think I might be moving to Los Angeles soon.
I just have to figure out a real job first.
Oh, don't worry about that. We'll help you find something.
Oh, well, I can help you with a job.
[chuckles] I'm looking for an LA assistant myself right now
for when I go back to New York in the spring
and I think that you would just be perfect for it.
- Seriously? - Yeah.
You say the words, and it's yours.
- Just like Christmas magic! -[laughing]
See? Told you this is how it works.
It's all about who you know.
Well, then to who you know.
- Cheers. - Cheers.
Oh, and what are the chances
we can get you to sing your new song for us?
Oh, please!
It would be an honor.
- Yes! - Oh, yay!
- Now. - Okay. All right.
[instrumental music]
♪ Counting down the days for the seasons to change ♪
♪ I feel a love that's true it makes the heart feel new ♪
♪ Years can fade away but the memories will stay ♪
♪ No matter how far how apart ♪
♪ I know love will find a way ♪
♪ Love will find a way ♪
♪ Love will always ♪
♪ Find a way ♪
[Olive humming]
So...
why are you back here, Levi?
Well, I didn't come back for my folder,
which I honestly was planning to shred when I got back.
You were just planning to shred it?
Yeah, I was, until your dad asked me
to come back 'cause I forgot it.
Oh.
So my father is the reason
that you returned.
It's only short-lived, I swear.
That is, unless my one true Christmas wish
to be forgiven is in the cards.
So, you had one wish, to be let in to the retreat,
and now you have another wish,
to be forgiven and to be able to stay?
I never said anything about staying,
but considering the snow that's coming in,
that might be nice as well.
I read the retrospect.
Old-school messy handwriting, too.
Impressive.
My mother would have been proud of the story
you're trying to tell about her life.
To be honest, I'm just sad it's taken me this long
to be able to share it, too.
Look, I'm sorry for taking advantage of that trust.
The things you shared to me about you, her, the retreat...
Those were stories that needed to be told.
So thank you for bringing them back to life.
For bringing me back to life, Levi.
Hey.
You finishing your book, that's all you.
I'm in awe of you, Mikaela.
By the way, did you, did you finish it?
- I did. - Oh, yeah?
Okay, so look, I got one question
because a lot of people are gonna be asking...
Mm-hmm.
Did Maya finally find love?
She did.
And it was with that pain-in-the-butt Jerome
that she never got along with.
The one that challenged her,
the one that made her challenge herself.
But I am glad that Maya finally got
her happily ever after.
So what about you? Are you gonna find yours?
How about we start
by going to your grams' crazy holiday party tomorrow?
And then, I don't know...
figure out the rest as we go along.
I like that. Yeah.
Merry Christmas, Mikaela.
Merry Christmas.
[instrumental music]
You want some?
[indistinct chatter]
[instrumental music]
♪ Counting down the days for the seasons to change ♪
♪ I feel a love that's true it makes the heart feel new ♪
♪ Years can fade away but the memories will stay ♪
♪ No matter how far how apart ♪
♪ I know love will find a way ♪
♪ Love will find a way ♪
♪ Love will always ♪
♪ Find a way ♪
[humming]
♪ I see the guiding light within the winter's night ♪
♪ I found what I was looking for ♪
♪ But almost lost much more ♪
♪ But now I see you there with so much life to share ♪
♪ And no matter how far how apart ♪
♪ I know love will find a way ♪
♪ Love will find a way ♪
♪ Love will always ♪
♪ Find a way ♪
♪ Counting down the days for the seasons to change ♪
♪ I feel a love that's true ♪
♪ I found it all in you ♪