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♪ I wanna get all wrapped up ♪
♪ All wrapped up ♪
Official YIFY movies site: YTS.MX
♪ All wrapped up with you ♪
♪ I'm giving you all my love ♪
♪ All of my love ♪
♪ And it's all wrapped up ♪
♪ All wrapped up with you ♪
♪ Fa, la, la, la, la, la... ♪
I would like to thank you all
for coming to the launch of Book Three
of our extraordinary
Whispers franchise--
...Whispers of the Kingdom--
the YA fantasy thriller
that is sweeping the world!
Whoo!
- Harper. - Hey.
So great turnout.
Yeah. Fans can't get enough.
And now, let's meet our author--
Lilly Lukenbach!
[applause]
[quietly] So? How's it been going?
Well, aside from rushing the book out
in time for Christmas,
everyone wants my input on just about everything.
Honestly, Jaz? I'm exhausted.
Have you talked to Nancy?
No, not yet.
I'm worried I'm about to talk my way out of a career.
Not a chance, lady! Ha.
You pushed this book out before Christmas
when everyone told you it was impossible.
You're a star. She loves you!
[crowd applauding]
And... it is my pleasure
to announce
that we have just signed
the author
for Books Four and Five!
[crowd cheering]
[applause continues]
[***]
Hey, Nancy. You got a second?
Incredible work, Harper. You've done it again.
Another huge hit.
Thank you. But, um...
we need to talk.
I'd like to take a leave of absence-- one month.
That's very sudden. Why?
Well, the third book is selling well,
but the reviews were just ho-hum.
I was bogged down with promotion and marketing data,
wherein I should have been focusing on the story.
Those metrics allow us to build franchises.
I'm very thankful for that.
But I thought that this book would be better received
than the first two.
You're being too hard on yourself, Harper.
We've had a challenging year,
professionally and-- and otherwise,
but you've done an excellent job
editing our biggest franchise.
The fans are hungry for more.
This isn't the time to abandon ship.
For me,
there's a magic
to creating a great story, and...
I feel like I've lost that spark.
There's a solid roadmap to all of my books
until the end of the year.
I just want to take some time for myself
and come back in January.
Okay, I understand.
Take the time you need.
But can I ask you something?
Of course.
What happens if you don't find your spark?
[chuckles uncertainly]
Um...
[***]
So...
what are you gonna do with your time off?
I have no idea.
[chuckles]
I'll go home and research.
Maybe go somewhere
pretty...
quiet.
Festive, maybe?
Mm!
- [message dings] - Oh.
What?
This is crazy.
I got it.
- I got in! - Into what?
I can't believe this is happening right now.
It's this bookstore in St. Ives.
Every December,
they bring in someone to help around the shop,
and in exchange,
you get to live in the apartment upstairs.
[laughs]
I signed up, like, five years ago.
[laughs] Okay, that sounds like the most "Harper" vacation ever.
The wait list was a mile long!
I completely forgot about it.
But now they sent me these emails
saying that there's been a last-minute cancellation,
and I am next in line if I want it.
Well, this has to be a sign, right?
You've gotta do it!
I don't know.
They want me to start in two days!
Harper! Go. Unwind.
A beautiful small town surrounded by books?
It would be amazing for you.
Christmas at a bookstore?
That could work.
They'll be excited
to have a fancy book editor in their store.
Done. Oh, no-- I think I'm gonna lay low.
If I tell people what I do,
that's when all the questions start,
and I don't want to deal with that.
I just want to kick back, play Christmas Bingo,
read for pleasure,
enjoy the holidays.
Cheers to that.
- Cheers. - [clink]
[***]
Let me guess.
Syrah?
Bold... savory, ripe.
Lotta spice. Am I right?
I'm more of a cocktail girl.
I'm actually looking for the owner, Sawyer.
That's me. I'm Sawyer.
Oh. I'm Harper Stevens.
Oh!
Uh, glad you could make it on such short notice.
So, am I working at a bookstore or a wine store?
Because you-you seem to have both.
In fact, for a bookstore, it's pretty heavy on the wine.
Well, we need to pay the bills.
I will be managing the business,
and you'll be helping out with the books.
Okay, great.
Um, but why is there a wine café?
You're not a fan?
Well, I just think you do one thing,
and you do it well.
[laughs]
Judgey much?
I bet that you actually know absolutely nothing
about the brick-and-mortar book business.
You caught me! I'm just a... book lover.
But I know a great story from a marketing gimmick.
I would hardly call wine a "gimmick."
Well, not exactly,
but I believe a good book will always find an audience.
I love books.
I introduced the wine café a few years ago,
so that my parents wouldn't lose their store.
Oh.
I'm sorry. I didn't mean to--
Misunderstand your audience?
Clearly, the concept is working.
Yeah.
Why don't I just show you to the upstairs apartment,
and you can get settled, and start tomorrow?
And by, the way, if-if I were to drink wine,
it's usually a chardonnay.
I have the perfect vintage.
It develops complexity over time.
[***]
"The tradition continues.
Merry Christmas to my bestie.
Love, Kimberly.
P.S.
Remember--
the first rule of Christmas Bingo
is you don't talk about Christmas Bingo.
Second rule-- complete everything on the card."
[deep breath]
[***]
"Watch your favorite Christmas movie."
"Wear the Santa PJs I got you all day."
"Randomly shout 'Bah, humbug!'"
[keys clicking]
[***]
[cheery background music plays]
[treat stand settles]
Merry Christmas.
What can I get ya?
Merry Christmas. Ooh! Can I get
one of your gingerbread muffins, please?
Let me guess. You're... Harper?
Wow. News travels fast.
Small town... plus, Sawyer is a good friend.
Oh. How long have you known him?
Uh, well, he and my brother, Kirk,
were best friends growing up.
When Kirk moved out of town,
Sawyer assumed
"overprotective big brother" duties.
Oh, that's really sweet.
Is it, though?
- [laughing] - Sadly, for him,
he's only able to exercise those powers
when I'm home on break.
Breakfast of champions. On the house.
Thank you.
If you're not busy this evening,
you should join us for Cider-and-Cocoa Crawl.
I'm trying to convince Sawyer to come, too.
It's a good way to meet people, since you're new in town.
I don't want to impose.
And Sawyer might need a break from me
after my first day.
Sawyer isn't the boss of Christmas.
You let me deal with him.
The more, the merrier.
Okay, then. I'll see you then.
Thank you.
Bye.
[Sawyer] In case you forget anything,
these are the instructions.
Wow. That's a lot of instructions.
My parents are very thorough.
They've been doing this every Christmas,
so it's just best to do what's asked.
Good to know.
My best friend, Kimberly, and I
always dreamed of having our own bookstore.
Great.
Definitely had a lot of visitors with that same dream, so...
got a lot to learn.
There's a lot to do.
Can't be that hard, right?
And there's always the instructions,
in case I need them.
You will need them.
I bet you think that running a bookstore
is pretty easy these days, but you'd be surprised.
What is it that you do in New York?
Well, I'm actually trying to figure that out right now.
That would be your cue-- go talk to our customers.
- Oh, right! Obviously. - Yeah.
Hi. How are you? How can I help you?
Oh, yes. Those are on the other side.
So, the post office is just across the street,
and we do a ton of mail-order business
around the holidays.
I'm surprised you find the time,
with the shop and the wine bar?
Mm-hmm.
The pace is a lot faster than I thought,
but it's fun making recommendations.
See, that's exactly how I feel about the wine.
Noted.
How long has your family had the bookstore?
Well, they opened it before I was born,
and it has definitely seen its ups and downs.
And then they started hosting people
around Christmastime.
We got a ton of publicity.
The extra hands really help with sales.
Well, that's clever.
Yeah. I know it's a bit of a gimmick,
but we've had people from all over the world.
We've had retired librarians,
to doctors, police officers.
Everyone really seems to love it.
And what about the wine bar?
The wine bar is mine.
I added it a couple years ago
to make up for the slower sales months,
and it really turned things around.
Well, that explains
why the books have been overshadowed by your wine.
Or maybe it's because I put a lot of care
into curating our wine selection.
We have wines that you can't get anywhere else on the East Coast.
In fact, we often make more from our wine than books.
I enjoy a good glass of wine,
but there's nothing like
getting lost in the shelves of a good bookstore.
[woman] Sawyer!
[chuckling] Hi!
Mayor, this is--
Harper! I was just on my way to the bookstore
to say hello and give you this.
Inside is everything you need to know
about St. Ives,
plus an itinerary of our holiday-season events,
so don't be a stranger.
Well, thank you.
I was planning on laying low this year
to work on a project for a friend,
but I'll definitely take a look.
Well, we'll see you
at the Cider-and-Cocoa Crawl tonight. Right?
No.
Josie said you would be coming.
Wait. Josie invited you?
W... I-I'm sure it's could be considered an invitation
when you won't take no for an answer.
But, honestly, I'd be okay just staying in and reading.
No excuses!
Our town is known
for its welcoming Christmas cheer.
Isn't that right, Sawyer?
Yeah, okay.
We can debate which cider is the best.
Bet you'll have your opinions on that.
Actually, I'm more of a hot chocolate girl.
'Course you are.
Well, it sounds like
it will be a lively holiday season
at the bookstore this year.
Post office.
Um, excuse me.
Yeah, hi! Can I help you?
I'm looking at the shelves,
but I can't find what I'm looking for.
I'm wondering if you have any books on,
well-- [laughs] ...how to write a book.
I can probably help you with that.
I've been trying to write my grandparents' love story
for years,
and I keep getting stuck.
- Your grandparents, huh? - Mm-hmm!
I'm sure we can find you the perfect book.
Ah... there is a great one that I can recommend.
Though it doesn't seem to be here.
Can you order it?
Oh. Um... I think so.
Sawyer should have my name and phone number on file.
He usually just calls when it arrives.
Great! What was your name?
Beth Bradley.
Okay, Beth. I'm Harper.
I'll put the order in
and I'll call you when it gets here.
- Thank you. - You got it.
Okay...
now what?
So, how was your first day?
Good. Good. Fine, I guess.
Still wrapping my head around a few things,
and there's lots to learn.
But tell me about you. What do you study in college?
Great question.
My parents ask it all the time.
Mm.
I'm just trying to figure out what I really love, you know?
Well, sometimes,
finding the right career is a process of elimination.
You'll get there.
Hey! Have either of you tried this bourbon-ginger cider?
It's amazing.
[dryly] Oh, wait. 'Course you haven't.
It can't be any better than the peppermint hot chocolate.
It's definitely way more complex
than just peppermint and chocolate.
Peppermint hot chocolate is a classic for a reason.
Okay, and that concludes
the "cider versus cocoa" portion of our evening.
So, Harper, what made you want to come here for Christmas?
To work in the store.
But I also needed a change of scenery.
From New York?
Isn't that the greatest place to spend Christmas, like, ever?
It can be.
Do you have anyone special
coming to spend Christmas with you?
Whoa! Josie.
Sorry.
I'm all about the overshare.
It's fine.
So, how do you usually spend the holidays?
Well, it depends.
Sometimes, I spend it with my parents.
Or, if I stay in the city,
we do a sort of "orphan" Christmas with my friends.
That sounds like us.
We usually do it with Rhys and Wes.
Every Christmas,
the bookshop gets guests to run it.
They're usually totally nice,
but we don't get too many cool New Yorkers.
Honestly, I would love to have another girl in our group.
I always feel a little outnumbered.
[Harper] That's very nice.
Maybe I'll join you for a few events.
- Oh-- - Yes!
Another girl!
Bye-e!
[***]
Okay, Kimberly.
Time to kick off Christmas Bingo.
[exhaling] Ahh.
"Eat a dozen Christmas cookies in one sitting."
In public.
Well, that should be awkward.
[slurps]
[keys clicking]
Do you need help?
Uh... no, I'm good, thanks.
Are you sure?
Well, the church is doing a Christmas book drive.
Maybe you could help
by putting together some children's books to donate?
Sure. I'd be happy to.
Anything specific you have in mind?
Uh, just something for younger kids and pre-teens.
How 'bout these?
These are great.
How did you know these are our bestsellers?
Well, I... consulted my inner child.
[phone ringing]
Hello?
Hi.
Yeah, it's, uh... it's going well.
Well, I-- no. I just didn't realize that you had re-engaged.
Yeah, okay. Well, I'm...
I'm glad that you're having a great time,
and just send the offer over when you get it,
and I'll have a look at it.
Yeah, I love you, too.
Okay, bye.
Is everything okay?
[dazed] Uh...
yeah, no, everything, uh...
everything's fine.
- Ah! - [crash]
[books hit floor]
[sighs]
Are you sure?
Yeah.
Um...
yeah, I-I think I just-- I need to get some air,
so, if you wanna take your lunch,
just lock the front door.
Sounds good. Take your time.
[***]
[British accent] Oh!
You must be our Christmas bookstore visitor.
Come with me! There's a seat over 'ere.
Oh, sorry, I didn't catch your name.
- Oh-- - This is Wes.
- Hi. - And you must
know Sawyer already.
I'm Harper.
So, this is her, huh?
Oh. Thank you.
Yeah. So, this is our favorite Brit, Rhys.
I love your pub.
It's so fun and lively.
Ah, chuffed to hear it.
What brought you to this side of the Atlantic?
Years ago, I fell in love with Henry, a--
a local carpenter.
Followed him back here, and we built the pub together.
Oh, that's so sweet.
Is Henry here?
He passed. Five years ago.
Oh, I'm so sorry.
Well, I've got Sawyer and his lot out of it,
and this place is my 'ome now.
Be right back!
So... how's it going at the bookstore?
Well-- [sighs]
...the owner is a real taskmaster.
Really?
Usually, he's such a sweetheart.
My advice?
Start talking to him about his favorite Pinot Noir.
- He'll never shut up. - All right, that's enough.
Funny guy.
Today's special-- fish and chips, on the 'ouse.
That's so kind. Thank you.
I don't know if Sawyer's mentioned it,
but I host the big, uh, Christmas sing-along
here at the pub.
It's a mandatory holiday event.
Sounds lovely.
[Sawyer] Are you doing the same-old this year?
[Wes] Yeah.
- [Sawyer] So anything new? - [Wes] A couple surprises.
[***]
Hey. Thanks so much for letting me crash your lunch.
Your friends are great.
Yeah. Yeah, they're great guys.
Look, I'm sorry for running off earlier.
I got this unexpected phone call,
and I just needed a minute to clear my head.
Yeah. Is everything okay?
Yes.
And... no.
Okay.
There's this guy that's been trying to buy the store
for a few months now,
and apparently he just made my parents
an offer that can't be refused.
Oh.
They really love the community
they've become a part of in Mexico
and they wanna retire there,
and, basically, this would allow them to do so.
Well, isn't that a good thing?
Yes, but...
I've worked so hard the last couple of years
to build this business back up.
I feel like I've...
put so much of myself into this place.
They did say that it would give me
a big enough safety net so I could pursue my own dreams.
But, you know, the thing is--
you know, I went to college for business.
It was never part of my plan to come back
and run the store with my parents.
They probably see selling the place
as a way of releasing me from the commitment.
I don't know. Maybe they see it as a gift.
Well, maybe it is a gift.
Not everyone gets a do-over.
Yeah, that is true.
Anyways, there's still some deal points
that I need to go over with my lawyer,
because I'm not signing anything
till I know that my parents are protected.
Well, they're very lucky to have you.
Thank you.
I feel like I just unloaded so much onto you.
[laughs] No problem.
I'm a good listener.
Yeah.
Um...
We should--
let's get back to work.
Yes, great.
Oh, hey. Um...
I've heard about this idea
where customers can suggest their favorite book
and we can display them
with a short written recommendation.
That way, when someone's browsing,
it's easier to find the good reads they're looking for.
Yeah, okay. Sure. Go for it.
Really? I can just go in, and change that?
Yeah, whatever you want.
Well, when I'm done with this place,
you'll be selling more books than wine.
Knock yourself out!
Good.
[to self] I love a challenge.
Sweet Tooth Christmas cookies?
- [reproachfully] Mm-mm. - Sorry.
May I have one?
No-o-o! I only have a dozen.
What, you can't spare one?
I'm not allowed.
Why not?
The first rule of Christmas Bingo
is that... [deep breath]
I'm not allowed to talk about Christmas Bingo.
What's "Christmas Bingo"?
You're asking me to break the first rule again!
[***]
Oh, Beth! Your order just arrived.
Oh, thank you so much for ordering it.
I'm so excited to jump in!
I don't remember ordering books being in the instructions.
Yeah, well, I finally figured it out.
I'm gonna need a progress report soon on your writing.
You got it! Thank you.
Actually... a bookstore is a perfect place
to help someone like Beth.
Yeah, that's exactly why we have books.
No! I mean, there must be other writers around.
Maybe we can create
an opportunity for them to meet one another?
Whoa! Whoa, whoa, whoa. Hold on.
Are you saying that you want to host an event?
You said I could do whatever I wanted.
Yeah, but within reason!
I mean, come on, you're only here for a few more weeks.
It'll be like a book club...
just for writers.
One night a week, after we close.
Are you always this impetuous?
Call it spontaneous.
Okay.
Fine.
But it'll cost you a cookie.
Well... it is a baker's dozen.
Yes!
This one.
Mm!
[***]
[video call ringing]
Hi, honey!
We are just calling to see how things are going there.
Um... Yeah, it's good.
It's g-- It's just--
It's gonna take me a little time
to shake off
my real life,
but, yeah, I'm settling in.
Yeah, I know you wanna relax,
but try to have some fun, too, huh?
I'm actually starting a new round of Christmas Bingo.
That is great, honey!
We can't wait to hear all about it.
Just try not to get arrested, or anything, huh?
Uh, we won't be able to bail you out
from the Mediterranean.
Deal.
Well, we love you.
I love you guys, too. Have fun.
[smooch] Bye!
[call ends]
[***]
Just got off the phone with our lawyer.
We are countering the offer.
Great!
I need to drop off the book donations
to the church's booth.
I'm all done.
Okay, great.
You're okay here alone?
Yeah. Yeah, I should be fine.
I could use a hand... if you wanna come.
Sure.
I'd love to.
Get that one?
Yeah.
Thanks.
[festive music playing]
Warm candied almonds--
something I always get at the Christmas market.
Mm, I can see why-- they're delicious.
Mm-hmm.
I should get some for my mom and dad.
Yeah, so, do you miss being around them during the holidays?
I do, but they've been planning this trip for a while.
You know what I miss?
Every Christmas growing up,
my dad and I would make luminaries.
"Luminaries"?
Yeah. They're like
paper lanterns that sit on the ground.
We'd light up our whole street with them.
Hmm.
They give off the most beautiful glow.
Sounds nice.
So, any siblings?
Nope. Only child. You?
Same.
On the one hand,
it meant that we got all the toys under the tree.
Yeah, but on the other hand,
it meant that we had no kids to play with Christmas morning.
Ah, that's where I lucked out.
Kimberly lived three houses away.
It was like having a sister.
I guess I had that with Kirk, Josie's brother.
Mm-hmm?
Yeah. Except, of course, Josie always wanted to tag along.
[laughs] Can't imagine.
That's another thing we have in common--
we have parents who gave us literary names.
Yeah, a sign of excellent taste.
And also, speaking of,
I think... hmm?
Uh...
Seriously?
Okay.
What was your favorite Christmas gift?
The guy I dated all through college
gave me a rare edition of Pride and Prejudice.
Now, that's tough to beat.
That sounds like a very thoughtful guy.
He was.
So, what happened to him?
He's a tech genius who moved to Silicon Valley
and is probably a gazillionaire at this point.
How 'bout you? Favorite Christmas gift?
Ooh, that would have to be when I was seven.
Santa brought me a puppy-- "Frosty"--
and we were inseparable.
He used to sleep on my head.
Well, that's very cute.
Not really. He slobbered a lot.
[laughs]
Okay, so what's next on the Christmas agenda?
"The Reindeer Games." A St. Ives tradition.
Oh?
It's a series of extreme challenges
intended to push you to your limits.
Sounds cutthroat.
Oh, it's not for the faint of heart.
And I know that you're here to unwind, so...
you might wanna sit this one out.
Excuse me.
I was captain of the All-City soccer team in high school.
I think you might be looking at
the next Reindeer Games champion.
That's adorable!
You would be lucky to even win one event,
let alone the whole thing.
You care to wager, Mr. Overconfident?
Please.
You are looking at
the four-time Reindeer Games champion!
No one
has even come close to my record.
Okay, I'll take that as a "yes".
How about if I win one game,
and you already agreed to my writer event,
but you also have to agree to any other new idea I have--
within reason.
And if you don't?
I promise to... never bring up another new idea.
It'll be like taking candy from a baby, city girl.
Game on.
Hey... Kimberly.
You would love the bookstore here.
And the town is gorgeous.
Not sure about the wine bar yet,
but it's starting to grow on me.
Let me guess--
you're carb-loading for the Reindeer Games?
You know it.
Gingerbread muffin and a coffee, please.
Coming right up.
By the way,
these Christmas cookies were so good.
I think you have a future in coconut snowballs.
Awesome!
Well, at least I'll have something to fall back on,
if I end up dropping out of college.
You're dropping out of college?
Maybe. I don't know.
I just-- I don't really see the point in staying,
if I don't even know what I'm gonna do. You know?
Maybe I could come back, help Mimi run the shop.
Have you talked to anyone about this?
It's not exactly something
that I want to bring up at the dinner table--
at least, not until I've made a final decision.
Can I make a suggestion?
Talk to Sawyer.
He really takes his role as your surrogate big brother
seriously.
Sounds like you two are getting along.
Tch. Depends on the day.
There you go.
Thank you. See you later!
[festive music plays over speakers]
What makes you want to compete again, Sawyer?
Scared the, uh, out-of-towner's gonna beat the locals?
We might have a bet riding on it.
Careful, he's a sore loser.
Are these stretch-worthy events?
Uh, yeah, they are for those who wanna win.
Oh.
It's an all-ages event,
but the guys always seem to think
that they're competing in the Olympics.
Hey! Never underestimate the athletic prowess of a child.
And don't fall for their fake tears!
See what I have to deal with?
You know what? You should just follow
the seasoned pros there, city girl.
Buckle up, country boy.
Okay.
Mm-hmm!
Welcome to the Reindeer Games!
[all cheering and applauding]
Okay, you all know how this works.
The top three winners in each game accrue points,
and the one with the most points in the end
wins this incredible Christmas picnic basket.
Whoo!
[both mouthing words]
All right! Let the Reindeer Games begin!
[loud cheering]
[guys hooting]
Go!
[spectators cheering]
♪ Now it's that time of year ♪
♪ When magic's in the air ♪
♪ There's so many smiley faces ♪
♪ Love is everywhere ♪
♪ You can hear those carol sounds... ♪
Oh no!
♪ ...From outside your front door ♪
[cheering]
♪ That's when you know it's almost Christmas ♪
There we go-- hey!
♪ Chestnuts roasting Champagne toasting ♪
♪ Frosty in the snow ♪
♪ Children wishing ♪
♪ Lovers kissing Under the mistletoe ♪
♪ It's almost Christmas ♪
[***]
♪ It's almost Christmas ♪
Um... Harper?
[Harper] Yeah? Oh!
[laughter and cheering]
[cheering continues]
Free drinks for the man of the hour!
[patrons hooting and cheering]
I bow to your greatness.
Well, in all fairness, I have been competing
in the Reindeer Games for most of my life, so...
you didn't really stand a chance.
But I did win our bet.
Yes. You will have your writers' night,
and any other new ideas that you come up with.
[Sawyer] Hey.
Excellent job-- for a newcomer.
Thank you.
Sawyer always won the Reindeer Games,
then he stopped competing.
This year, he was in it to win it.
♪ Wonder why? ♪ - Hmm!
[chuckling]
[indistinct background chatter]
[Sawyer] Better than his first book--
just saying.
Good morning!
- Hey. - I got up early
and I posted fliers for our writer event.
I'm calling it "Write On".
Mayor Binky is posting it on the town's social media.
Oh! And...
I have another new idea--
given as how I won our little wager.
What's your new idea?
To just give money away to our customers?
Oh, no, no. These... they have to earn.
How do they do that?
By finding "Santa Sawyer" on a stick.
Every day, we're having a "Find Santa Sawyer" contest.
The daily winner gets a gift certificate.
Where did you find this picture?
Josie.
A deal's a deal.
Also, this is good business.
When you give away gift certificates,
people almost always
spend more than the amount that they're given.
"Santa Sawyer on a Stick"--
it's like Elf on a Shelf, but better...
...because you hate it.
[***]
This is a great one,
but it's the second in the series,
so I recommend getting both.
Oh. You can't go wrong with this one--
you'll love it.
Somebody's having fun.
The most fun. What's up?
[sighs] I need a brain break.
Oh, I can help with that!
What kind of stuff do you like?
Ooh, I love these.
I haven't had a chance to read the new one yet.
- Really? - Have you read it?
I have, yeah.
I love the whole epic fantasy of it.
Especially the romantic triangle.
I just thought
her finding out that she was a royal
was kinda lame.
But... it was the first time
I found a heroine really take charge of her life--
strike out on an adventure, and throw caution to the wind.
Huh.
[background music plays faintly]
You know what-- it's starting to dawn on me,
by making this store profitable,
I may have worked myself out of a job.
But you would have a solid safety net, though, right?
I would have a great safety net,
but the problem is,
I have no idea what I would do with it.
Maybe a wine bar?
Yeah, maybe.
Do you have any idea when the sale would go through?
Well, I think they wanna wrap things up by Christmas,
so it could be as early as January.
Wow, that's coming up fast.
Don't remind me.
Which-- I need to call our lawyer.
Hey, uh... you're coming
to the writer event tomorrow night, right?
No. That's your thing. I've got too much to do.
By the way,
I really like what you've done with this display.
Thank you.
I just put all my Christmas book recommendations on one table.
Hey! I found Santa Sawyer!
Finally.
I've been browsing for the last 20 minutes
to give him time.
But at least I ended up with a few good Christmas gifts.
Thank you.
- Uh, let me ring you up. - Oh, okay.
[Sawyer] Josie, you can't be serious.
I don't know what I want to do.
It's a waste of money.
College isn't just about getting your degree.
It-It's an opportunity for you
to figure out who you want to be for the rest of your life.
Okay, well, you're lucky.
You always knew.
Even if it's not what you're doing right now,
you always had a-a passion.
Do you ever think about how different your life might be
if you never came back?
I've never regretted coming home
and helping my parents.
But your situation is different.
Your family doesn't need you here.
If you drop out of college now,
you'll never go back.
Technically, your family doesn't need you here either,
ever since you managed to turn the store around.
Hmm. Yeah, well--
[deep breath]
...pretty soon, they might not need me at all.
My parents want to sell the store.
To that guy who keeps offering?
They haven't come to an agreement yet,
but his last offer was a big one.
My parents could have a great retirement.
Mm. And you?
I would be set up for whatever I want to do next.
Now is your chance to get back out there
and chase your dreams.
Sawyer, you have to go for it!
Nice subject change.
And, by the way,
payback's coming for that picture.
What picture?
Oh, you don't know?
- No. - You don't know?
- No. -"Santa Sawyer on a stick."
What? Never-Never heard of "Santa Sawyer on a stick," no.
Hi, everyone.
I'm so glad you could come tonight.
I'm Harper.
I'm not a writer,
but I recently met Beth, who is a writer,
and I realized that you guys need a safe space,
where you can talk about your ideas,
share your work,
offer each other feedback.
That's what I really want to create here tonight.
So who'd like to start us off?
[Sawyer] I will.
[***]
We are together every day. You never told me you write!
Well, I don't really write much anymore.
When I got back from traveling,
I tossed my manuscript into a drawer,
and I just threw myself into transforming this place.
The book's not even finished.
Well, if that first chapter is any indication,
you're really talented, Sawyer.
You should get back to it.
If only I had the time.
I'll tell you what.
Whenever the store isn't completely overrun,
you go back into the office and write.
I can call you if I need you.
What, you think you can handle the books and the wine?
If it means getting that manuscript
out of the drawer and back on your desk,
then yes, I want to support you.
If you're sure.
I am.
[***]
[laughing]
Good morning.
Oh! [laughing]
I see that you're moonlighting as Santa's elf.
Well, you're not the only one full of surprises.
So? You gonna tell me what's up with the cute costume?
No. I'd be breaking the rules if I did.
Hey!
Given how well they're selling,
I think they deserve a little special attention, don't you?
[keys clacking]
Okay, so these are my favorite Christmas books for kids,
so just take a look and see
what your kids or grandkids would like.
Hey! How's the writing going?
[sighing] It's not.
I hate everything before I even type it.
Okay, well, just keep at it.
You just need to get into the flow of things.
That's the problem!
I-- I don't even know where to find my "flow".
I'm just to gonna work out here
for a little bit and clear my head.
[***]
[Jasmine] Congrats on winning the event for Reindeer Games.
Why didn't you mention how cute he is?
He's also an aspiring novelist.
He read me his first chapter.
It's really good!
Are you helping him with it?
No!
I'm taking a break from work, remember?
Mm. The Harper I know
would have already taken the bull by the horns
and given him notes.
Well, the Harper I know
isn't ready to share who she is yet.
You have a lot to offer Sawyer.
And he might just have something to offer you, too.
There's been so many bumps in the road this year.
What if I discover I lost my mojo?
Then you'll know!
And that's okay.
Hey, it's worth the risk.
And it's perfect timing.
Take the rest of your break to work with him.
It'll give you a chance
to work on a book just for the fun of it.
You're right.
I gotta go.
Oh, I forgot my coat.
Okay. This is a Chianti Classico
from Tuscany--
medium-bodied, dark cherries,
with just a hint
of dried herbs and spicy cedar.
I think that you are absolutely gonna love it.
[quietly] Hey!
You mentioned
that you used to make luminaries with your dad.
I was thinking maybe we could make some for the store.
Sounds like you liked one of my ideas.
Well, everyone strikes gold every once in awhile.
Why don't we make them together... tonight?
We can get some food from the pub.
That would be great.
Great.
Ooh. I am gonna dream
about that sticky-toffee pudding tonight.
Yeah, Rhys definitely knows his way around the kitchen.
I think I'm gonna go get more supplies.
Sure.
So, what's the story
with this top-secret Christmas Bingo?
Well, um...
since we were kids,
Kimberly and I made Christmas Bingo cards
for each other every year.
It's our own version--
like Blackout Bingo, except with less squares.
But, whoever fills the card first wins.
So that's why you had to eat all of those Christmas cookies?
In one sitting. In public.
And the elf costume deal?
Sounds more like dares.
Did I mention we were kids?
[laughs]
So, uh...
any progress with your book?
If you consider banging your head against the wall
"progress".
I was thinking...
ahem.
Maybe I can help you.
Oh, that's really kind of you,
but I think I just need to power through my writer's block.
Actually, you don't.
What you need is someone who knows
how to guide you through the writing process,
and that would be me.
What do you mean?
I'm a professional book editor.
I work at Stillman Publishing.
That whole display you have of the Whispers franchise?
That's me.
What are you talking about?
Well, it's a long story, but I just...
I needed a break.
Why didn't you just tell me this in the first place?
Oh, because I-I...
I needed to leave work behind.
I needed to... fall in love with books again.
Remind myself why I do what I do.
I'm sorry I didn't tell you.
But really, I think I can help you.
Do you know how hard it was for me
to share my book at writer's night?
How difficult it is to put yourself out there to be judged?
Wait. Sawyer, please don't go.
We-- We can talk this through.
I'll see you tomorrow.
[sighing]
[knocking]
Hi!
So, I... I brought you peace offering.
Thanks.
For what it's worth, I barely slept last night.
Please give me a chance to grovel?
I'm really sorry, Sawyer.
I-I really didn't mean to deceive you.
Well, I don't think I should've run out the way that I did.
The truth is...
I haven't been entirely honest with you, either.
After I got my business degree,
I went to the North American Writers Lab.
What? They have, like, a 3% acceptance rate.
[chuckles]
Sawyer, no wonder you're so good.
Writing has always been
what I've dreamed of doing professionally.
That's why I freaked out when I learned what you do.
So... the book isn't just a hobby.
It was never meant to be.
But... life happened.
Look, if you don't want to work with me,
I totally get it.
But, actually, you'd be helping me out.
How?
Well, it's been a long time
since I worked with a writer just for the fun of it.
It would help to know if I'm still any good at it.
So that's why you needed to get away?
Yeah.
Really? The full manuscript?
Yeah. What good is it
having an employee who creates a contest to mock you,
if you can't use it to your advantage?
Thank you!
[***]
That is a lot of red ink.
Go away!
[***]
Leave it.
Okay.
[***]
So, are you ready for the sing-along?
Oh. Uh...
yeah.
Okay.
[flap]
[thump]
[bar patrons] ♪ Ho-ho-ho ♪
♪ Who wouldn't go? ♪
♪ Up on the housetop ♪
♪ Click, click, click ♪
♪ Down through the chimney with good St. Nick ♪
♪ Down through the chimney ♪
♪ With good St. Nick ♪
[laughter and applause]
You all sound brilliant!
It's time to give our piano player
a quick breather-- and now's your chance
to get your orders in with your waitstaff.
Whoo!
Round of mulled-wine sangrias for the table.
- Wow. - Ooh!
Mighty fine playin'!
Why, thank you.
I've whipped you up a Christmas pudding
with brandy butter.
Should be ready soon.
Oh, wow! Fancy cocktails.
Christmas pudding.
A sing-along.
I am loving your holiday traditions.
My favorite is the lighting of the Yule log.
Yeah. We set our intentions for the new year.
Ooh, I've never done that before.
Naturally, I make a bûche de Noël.
We hang out, eat a little dessert,
light some candles.
Did you have any big holiday traditions
when you were growing up?
[stammers] Well--
ours was pretty run of the mill, compared to you guys.
Just making Christmas cookies, decorating the tree,
watching White Christmas.
Okay, I have to confess-- I've never seen White Christmas
What?
How is this guy my friend?
- Come on. No! - You're joking, right?
You've never seen White Christmas?
Have you seen it?
[Josie] Yeah, multiple times!
- Hmm. - Yes.
[begins playing]
Oh, here we go.
[***]
[patrons] * Oh! Jingle bells, jingle bells ♪
♪ Jingle all the way ♪
♪ Oh, what fun it is to ride in a one-horse open sleigh ♪
Hey!
[Harper, writing] I can't believe it's almost Christmas.
You would love everyone here, especially Josie.
Sawyer has been full of surprises.
Turns out he's a wonderful writer,
and I'm kind of surprised
how much I enjoy working with him.
I feel like this experience is getting me back on track.
What you reading?
Sawyer's letting you read his manuscript?
That's huge!
He hasn't shared it with any of us.
In fairness, he's sharing it with me
because I'm a book editor.
Wait. Seriously?
When I found out he was a writer,
I offered to help.
Have I read any of your books?
Actually,... the Whispers franchise is mine.
[sighing deeply]
I can't believe I was trashing your book.
I'm-- I'm such a jerk.
No! No, no.
You actually had a good note.
We considered not making the protagonist a princess.
It was actually my preference.
But... books about royals sell better.
Makes sense.
But your instinct was spot-on.
Hey, I don't know if this might interest you,
but Stillman Publishing has a great internship program.
You might be able to earn class credits,
live in New York for a semester.
Wait, that's a thing?
Yeah. We're always looking for people
who have a good understanding of young readers,
and a good eye on story.
It might be your thing.
Awesome.
- Hey. - Hey!
So...?
It's really good.
Yeah?
Yeah.
Yeah, I-I-I made plenty of notes,
and we still need to find an ending, but...
[sighs wistfully]
I loved it.
Wow!
Thank you... so much.
This means so much to me.
No. No, thank you.
This is the most fun I've had with a new manuscript in ages.
Let me know when you're ready to go over notes.
[footsteps recede]
- Ohh! - [thumps counter]
So, I'm the first person
you shared your manuscript with?
I never expected anybody to like it.
You know, you could have a real future at this.
Mm-hmm.
So...
you ever think about writing?
Mm.
No.
I always found the editing and publishing side
to be more fascinating.
So, I decided to go away for school
and learn all I could about that world.
I always intended to go back home.
But you didn't?
Kimberly and I were on two different tracks.
She got married and managed a bookstore.
I got an entry-level job at Stillman.
I just didn't expect to love it so much.
Passion isn't anything
that you should be apologizing for,
and good friends want you to succeed.
They want you to be happy.
Yeah.
Anyway, getting to be here and help run The Book Cabinet,
even for a short time,
has been a bit of a realization of a dream for me.
Not many people have the courage
to go after their dreams like you have.
It's... It's inspiring.
Well, maybe it's time that you went for it.
I know you never wanted to sell the place,
but now you have something that most people don't get...
a second chance.
Gingerbread lattes
to thank you for dinner last night.
Are you kidding me?
I should be thanking you.
I woke up early, started addressing your notes.
That's a good start.
Now, as an honorary elf,
I heard that Santa is coming to town tonight.
[chuckles] Well, then we should go.
Mm.
But only if your homework is done.
[***]
[lively festive music plays]
- Ohh! - So cute.
[***]
Can I get a candy cane?
Buy you blokes a mulled wine?
Yeah, why not? Santa's already got my letter.
Right behind ya.
[***]
So... I did a thing.
[Wes] What kind of thing?
I might have let Harper read my manuscript.
The manuscript you barely ever mentioned
to your two best friends?
All right, don't make it more than what it is.
What is it?
It's nothing!
We see each other every day--
of course, we're gonna get to know each other.
Turns out that she is a book editor.
Ooh... the plot thickens.
She is just taking a little vacation from work,
but, clearly,
she's the most educated opinion I'm ever gonna get.
Doesn't hurt she's dishy... and bright as a button.
[laughing]
So cute.
Oh, hey, I checked in with my colleagues,
and we're still looking for interns next year,
if you're interested.
Cool. Seems competitive.
Is that how you started?
It is. Yeah.
I moved to New York right after college.
I thought I was in over my head.
When they paired me with my first author,
I felt like I forgot everything I knew
about stories and editing.
Were they difficult?
Well, let's just say...
they were demanding.
Now look at you.
I mean, you're living your dream.
Not too many people get to say
that they love what they do for a living.
That's true.
I haven't looked at it that way in a very long time.
Well, just think about it.
Thanks, Harper. I-- I will.
[clacking]
[***]
Here is the rewrite, city girl.
So, just let me know when you're done reading
and maybe I can make you dinner again.
I make a mean "Mistletoe Kiss".
I am a fast reader,
and I've have never had a "Mistletoe Kiss".
I may just have to remedy that then.
[***]
So you like the "Mistletoe Kiss"?
Oh, clearly.
It's my second one.
The rosemary is...
unexpected.
Kinda like you.
You think I'm unexpected?
Mm-hmm.
How?
Well, at first,
you come off all rigid and business-like.
But then, I discover
you've written this lovely, soulful book.
It means a lot to me that you've been so supportive.
And that you like my book.
I do.
There's just... one thing.
What's that?
The romance isn't working.
[bristling] Oh.
It's too restrained.
Have you ever been in love?
- [stammers] - [quickly] Sometimes, it helps
to call on your personal experiences.
Okay. But my book isn't a romance.
No, but it has a romantic entanglement.
I mean, it may be peripheral, but it still needs to work.
You don't think it works?
Not yet.
Your story doesn't reveal or change the protagonist
in any meaningful way.
I-- I don't know about that.
It's nuanced.
Well, it could be better.
Okay.
"Not good at romance."
No, it's not that you're not good at it,
it--
I think you just need to dial it up.
I really thought this last draft was strong.
- It is! - Except for
the whole subplot that clearly isn't working.
No, it's-it's a tiny subplot...
but every emotion counts.
Maybe you think I'm a lot better than I actually am.
At some point,
every writer doubts their ability.
You just have to push through.
Sawyer...
you can do this.
[cell phone rings]
Harper?
Wasn't expecting to hear from you.
Hey. I just...
I wanted to check in, and wish you a Merry Christmas.
Your email said
that you're spending the holidays
at a bookstore in Maine?
Yeah.
I get to hang out with other book lovers all day.
Turns out it's exactly what I needed.
And I think I've found...
a very promising new writer.
You found our next big franchise?
Actually, this one is a lot smaller,
and more character-driven than what I'm used to.
But, if I've learned anything from helping in this bookstore,
I think readers will love it.
No. We're not that kind of business anymore, Harper.
You know that.
I know that this kind of book can be a hard sell at first,
but if it turns out as strong as I think it can be...
will you read it?
You know I'll always read anything
you feel strongly about.
But it's a long shot.
Dig deep.
I understand.
Merry Christmas.
Yes, Merry Christmas to you.
I know I was a little tough on you the other night.
Rewrites can be a grind.
But character pieces like yours
come with their own challenges.
How so?
They require an emotional depth
that will resonate with readers in a way
that makes them tell other people about it.
That's how these books become hits--
word of mouth.
You don't think I have that?
I think you can go deeper.
I have an exercise
that I sometimes do with my writers.
Are you up for it?
The more you tap into your own emotional life,
the better you'll be
at finding your character's emotional life.
Uh... you first.
I let Kimberly down.
And I'm not sure I'll ever forgive myself for it.
We had a plan and...
I destroyed it.
Well, life doesn't always
bend to the dreams of a teenage girl.
I wasn't a good friend.
Does Kimberly think that?
No.
Your turn.
Okay. [sighing]
After I left the North American Writers Lab,
I decided to chase my dream.
I'd travel the world for a year,
find my stories.
When money got low, I'd work in wine bistros.
And that's how you became an expert in wine?
Exactly.
And I ended up in Paris.
[quietly] I fell in love.
Started writing my book.
It was perfect.
Hmm.
And then, nine months into my dream,
I got a phone call.
My dad had a heart attack.
Oh, I'm so sorry.
He did make a full recovery, but...
[deep breath]
...my parents needed me back at the bookstore,
so I came home,
and... my relationship fell apart.
Yeah, I was so sure I was gonna make it as a writer,
'cause it felt so close, but then...
I realized how much work the bookstore needed.
So I figured out how to rebrand it.
And that's when you stopped writing?
Yeah, the thought of pursuing my dream,
it kinda terrifies me.
Sawyer...
you have a real gift.
You know what they say.
All it takes is one person to believe in you, so...
yeah, okay, let's-- let's go for it.
Yeah?
But, I think-- I just-- I kinda need a distraction,
so maybe...
you could let me be part of the Christmas Bingo?
[laughs]
Maybe.
I'll take a "maybe".
- Okay. - [laughing]
[***]
Merry Christmas!
Merry Christmas.
This is so fun.
So, what square is this on the Bingo card?
"Random acts of holiday kindness."
Well, that just seems like what Christmas is all about.
Hey, Merry Christmas!
You get a real rush from this.
- What's next? - Pace yourself!
No, no. I-I-- I'm in the zone.
I gotta do something. What else is on this card?
Okay, pal, you're gonna have to take it down a notch.
Merry Christmas!
[***]
[shouts] Bah, humbug!
[Harper giggling as patrons fall silent]
[giggling]
That was awesome.
I think Kimberly would be very, very proud of you.
[***]
[keys clicking]
[***]
[Wes] Each of us has a candle in the Yule log.
We'll go around the table,
and we'll share our hope for the new year,
and light our candle.
Rhys, how 'bout you start us off?
All right, mates.
Hold on to your knickers for this one.
My intent for the new year
is to...
open my heart.
Finally!
Knew you'd like that one.
My intention for the new year
is to figure out who I wanna be...
starting with
applying to an internship
in New York.
[Harper and Josie giggle]
Josie, that's awesome!
I want to prioritize my family.
I've let geography get in the way
ever since my parents moved,
and I won't allow that to be an excuse anymore.
[***]
"Go confidently
in the direction of your dreams."
"Live the life you've imagined."
Thoreau.
Yeah.
I've spent this year on autopilot...
just going through the motions of life.
It's all been a bit of a blur, honestly.
But being with all of you...
...experiencing your traditions for the first time,
being at the bookstore, working on your book...
somehow, it all feels like a new beginning.
So that's my intent for the next year--
...a fresh start.
[***]
I'm going to have to get back to you on that,
but thank you.
Merry Christmas.
[quiet conversations]
That was the guy who's buying the bookstore.
He wants me to stay on and run it,
and he wants an answer just after Christmas.
But that's so soon.
I was just getting used to the idea of leaving--
you know, starting a new chapter,
and now...
I don't know.
[***]
So, the buyer gave you a few days to decide?
Look, I get staying on at the store is enticing,
but it's really good seeing you writing again.
- Harper is good for you. - Yeah.
Not that you'd ever admit it.
Honestly, working with Harper on my book
has not been easy.
She has...
challenged me and frustrated me.
She also lifts me up.
She makes me better.
Just admit it-- you like her.
Yes, I do.
She is the inspiration I've been looking for.
Cheers to that.
[clinking]
[***]
I just finished.
And?
You really found the emotional core.
At one point,
I found myself
laughing and crying at the same time.
And the ending?
It's... surprising
and-and satisfying.
I loved it.
You really did it.
This truly is...
the best Christmas gift you could've given me.
Well, I'm glad.
I've enjoyed every moment of it.
Well, you haven't lost your touch.
Well, it feels good,
and I think we should send it to my boss.
Whoa! No, that's a... big deal.
Plus, it's Christmas Eve. You should probably wait.
I already told her about it.
And she said to send it when it's ready,
and I think it's ready.
Harper, I never expected you
to put yourself on the line for me.
I believe in you.
And I appreciate
that you gave me this opportunity
when I really needed it.
[***]
[whoosh]
I emailed it to you.
[keys clicking]
Okay.
Copy... paste.
"Happy Holidays."
[clicking continues]
I think this moment warrants a celebration.
Absolutely.
[pop!]
[***]
[glasses clinking]
[***]
Are you ready?
[sighs] I'm ready!
[click]
No turning back now.
To "no turning back".
[clink]
[***]
[lively festive theme rises]
- ♪ Downtown's gettin' busy ♪ - [shutter snapping]
♪ People everywhere ♪
♪ Stores are decorated... ♪
Okay, wait, wait. Not so fast.
You have to tell Santa your Christmas wish.
♪ ...Santa's gettin' ready ♪
♪ Kids are countin' down... ♪
♪ The only thing left ♪
♪ To do right now ♪
♪ Is pick out a Christmas tree... ♪
Tomorrow-- Christmas.
I thought maybe we could enjoy some of the spoils
from our Reindeer Games victory.
I know the perfect pairing.
♪ ...And when we get back home ♪
♪ Get back home ♪
♪ Plug it in and watch it glow ♪
♪ Been waitin' all year to ♪
♪ Light up the livin' room ♪
♪ With you ♪
♪ You... ♪
♪ You ♪
♪ You... ♪
♪ Go pick out a Christmas tree with you ♪
Hey!
[Jasmine] Congratulations on sending the book
to Nancy.
How do you feel?
Terrified, because I'd really like a shot
at working on more books like Sawyer's.
But... also excited!
I rediscovered my love for this.
I didn't second-guess every choice,
I trusted my gut, and it worked.
Well, hey--
no matter what happens with the book,
that's a big win.
Merry Christmas!
Merry Christmas to you, too.
[***]
Okay.
I finally understand why everyone loves White Christmas.
I have to admit--
it's even more fun watching it with someone
who's never seen it before.
Made me fall in love with it all over again.
Time for presents?
Let's do it.
Excellent.
Whoa!
[rustling]
You first.
[quiet gasp]
Oh.
Little something to remember your time in St. Ives.
[Harper] The necklace from the market.
I love it.
Okay, you go.
[tissue rustles]
[box hits floor]
Gave me my manuscript?
Well, that's not the same manuscript.
This one's getting published.
Your boss already read my book?
Full disclosure-- she was only gonna read the first chapter,
but she got sucked in and stayed up all night.
She loved it.
Merry Christmas.
Harper, you've changed my life.
This book was just...
an idea that was in a drawer--
probably would've stayed there forever, but...
you're the one who brought it to life.
You're the one who made me feel like
I actually have something worthwhile to say.
Thank you.
Thank you--
for bringing me into your world...
for helping me find my joy.
That life-changing thing works both ways.
[***]
[doorbell chimes]
[***]
[door opening]
[Jane] I'm sorry to bother you,
but, um, the young lady at the bakery said
we might be able to find our daughter here?
[Sawyer] Oh. Yeah, no, come in!
- Oh! - Come in. Uh...
Guess who's here.
Mom! Dad! I thought you were supposed to be on the cruise?
Ah!
Ah, we disembarked one port early.
We got word you might be spending Christmas alone.
Merry Christmas, honey! [chuckling]
And...?
- Oh! This is Sawyer. - Oh--
He-He owns the bookstore.
Well, Merry Christmas, Sawyer.
Merry Christmas. So nice to meet you two.
We're so sorry to barge in.
Oh, no. No. You're more than welcome.
How you been, honey?
Good! Good.
It's been great
to work at the bookstore with Sawyer,
and, you know, take a little break from life.
I can imagine, after the year you've had.
- Oh-- - It's bad enough
it's your first Christmas since Kimberly died.
With your leave of absence on top of that,
uh, well, we felt like we wanted to check in on you.
Kimberly died?
Sawyer...
[***]
Hey...
Hey.
[sighs]
I got my parents settled at the B&B.
Good.
So can I ask you about Kimberly?
Sure.
What do you want to know?
What happened?
Well...
her illness came on fast.
I was able to spend
last Christmas and New Year's with her, but...
she passed soon after that.
I'm so sorry.
I wish I would've known.
I'm sorry I didn't tell you.
No, you don't need to apologize.
I just...
I'd like to be there for you.
Thanks.
So, did you get a chance to tell her about your regrets?
No.
Never had the chance.
But she said a bunch of nice things
to make me feel better.
It's so like her.
She didn't hold anything against you.
Maybe it's time to stop holding things against yourself.
I spiraled after losing her.
I had such a hard time focusing on work.
Everything just became much... harder.
I had to work long hours just to keep up.
I felt...
overwhelmed.
So that's why you were so burnt-out.
Sometimes, I leave her voicemails.
Sometimes, I text.
[Sawyer chuckles]
I don't know where they go,
but...
they make me feel like she's still here.
Well, maybe she is...
in her own way.
[Harper chuckles]
I had literally just asked for some time off
when I got your email.
It's like she led me here.
And she was always after me to "find a nice guy".
Ha!
What about the bingo card that Kimberly made you?
I thought you just got that.
It was actually her gift to me from last Christmas.
Ah.
But I never could bring myself to open it.
I brought it out this year
just as a sort of... tribute to her.
She must've known that you make a pretty cute elf, too.
[laughs]
Look, I loved having you here,
but if you need to go back with your parents, I understand.
No.
I have two days left here.
And I'm not ready to say goodbye yet.
Are you guys sure you don't wanna stay one more night?
Oh, you know how your dad gets
when he's been away from home too long.
I gotta hit the road, kiddo.
I have some ball games to watch.
[laughs] Of course.
Well, we are just so happy you had a good Christmas.
And, more importantly, you seem like your old self again.
Yeah.
I am feeling more like my old self.
This trip has been a really great reset for me.
And Sawyer seems like a great guy.
Hey, how was the tour?
Oh--
We had so much fun.
And what a charming town.
Yeah. We stopped by the Sweet Tooth
and we got a slice of peppermint-brownie pie.
- Mm! - And then we met the mayor,
and she tried to convince us to vacation here next summer.
Yeah, that sounds like the mayor.
And now we need to find a few good books
for the cold winter days ahead.
Where are your murder mysteries?
Yes!
You--
Just right over there.
Thank you.
All good?
Yeah. Yeah, they, uh...
they seem to have a lot of questions about you.
Oh. So have you been singing my praises?
Actually, I told them
that you somehow went your whole life
without seeing White Christmas.
Ouch!
Hey, by the way,
Rhys wants to throw you a farewell happy hour.
Oh...
Uh, honey?
Uh... what's this?
[laughing]
I need a few to take back. Will you ring me up?
On the house.
No! Not happening.
Well, I haven't told you yet,
but our book sales may have spiked since you've been here.
Oh, you mean all of my ideas worked?
[laughs] Well, you can consider these your bonus.
Mm.
I can't believe this is my last day.
Yeah.
Went by fast.
Yeah.
Barkeep?
[Sawyer] Hey.
Hey.
You look melancholy.
[chuckles] No, not melancholy.
I'm grateful.
I'm not sure how I would've gotten through Christmas
without you guys.
[sighs]
So, have you decided
whether you're gonna stay and run the store?
Yeah.
I am...
not.
It is intimidating, but I think I really need
to take advantage of the second chance.
Well, you know,
there's lots of illustrious writers
that live in New York.
[quietly] Yeah.
Sounds tempting.
But I feel like
I really need to finish what I started.
I gotta get out in the world,
find my stories,
and keep writing.
[chuckles]
Where will you go?
Last time, I didn't make it to Southeast Asia,
so I thought I would start in Singapore.
I'd be lying if I said I wouldn't miss you.
Me too.
I hope you find your stories.
[***]
Well...
[***]
Well...
I kissed someone--
just not under the mistletoe.
[***]
[Josie] Good morning.
Good morning!
Okay, so I finished reading all the new submissions,
and I have my notes typed out in that folder I sent you.
That was fast.
Honestly? It's... fun.
I can't believe I'm getting a college credit for it.
I'm glad you find this a good fit.
Oh, by the way, is it okay if I go out for lunch today
with the other interns?
Yes, of course, but feel free
to join the marketing meeting this afternoon.
We'll be discussing Sawyer's book launch.
Have you heard from him?
I got a postcard from Hong Kong a few weeks ago,
and, uh, I've been emailing him updates on his book.
Cool.
[Jasmine] Okay, so we'll kick off
the summer's book tour on the release date
here, in Manhattan,
and then, uh, Sawyer will hit several major cities
within the first two weeks of release.
Have advance copies gone out
to any of the national book clubs?
No, not yet.
But they're all clamoring for it.
The early buzz is strong.
Excellent.
Oh! And, uh... we just got his author photo.
Wow.
That looks like a face that could sell a lot of books.
Make sure to set up some TV interviews.
[***]
I think Sawyer's book launch looks good.
How do you feel about it?
Oh, I feel great.
I sent galleys out
to a few of my trusted advance readers,
and they loved it.
I think the word of mouth is gonna be strong.
I'm proud of you, Harper.
For what?
You weren't afraid to step back
when you knew you needed some time
to process a rough year.
And, on top of that,
you stuck your neck out for a writer you believed in,
even though you knew I wouldn't make it easy for you.
Yes, that part was nerve-racking.
[chuckling]
I'm sorry I pigeonholed you.
You're just...
so good at those big, noisy bestsellers.
And I love those...
but I've also really enjoyed shepherding Sawyer's book.
I can see that spark again.
Yeah. It's nice to have it back.
Good!
Because I may have stumbled upon our next franchise.
I'll drop it by tomorrow.
Great.
[***]
Hey, I'm-I'm so sorry for springing
that photo of Sawyer on you with no warning,
Publicity just put it in at the last minute.
It's fine.
Look, you don't have to fake it with us.
We know that you still miss him.
I'm not!
He's out there living his dream, and I'm happy for him.
Whatever our relationship was in the past,
he's one of my writers now, and...
I just want to make sure
that his book gets a great launch.
I think we all know
that Sawyer isn't just another writer for you.
No, of course not.
He's... He's special.
But I put myself out there,
and he chose to leave and...
maybe we were only meant to be
each other's creative inspirations.
And that's okay.
Yeah, I, um-- I need to hit the ladies room.
I'll just-- Excuse me.
I'll join you.
[background chatter, indistinct]
Wh-- [laughs] What are you doing here?
Ah, someone told me
that this was the best watering hole in New York.
- [both laughing] - Hi.
I-I wasn't expecting you for another two months.
Yeah, well, I was really thirsty.
[laughing]
You look great.
Happy.
I am!
I've been clocking out of work at 6:30 most days.
I joined a yoga class and a book club.
Reading for pleasure?
- Mm-hmm. - Good for you.
And I've even been planning my next vacation.
Well, I'd love to help you out with that.
Well, you're the travel expert.
[laughs]
So, how have you been enjoying spanning the globe?
I have met a lot of interesting people,
discovered a few new wines.
And I've even started getting some ideas together
for my second novel.
That is, if my first one sells, of course.
Oh, it'll sell. It's really good.
[sighs anxiously]
And Stillman has a great launch planned for you.
Yeah, the, uh... the book tour.
That's the thing that scares me the most.
Are you kidding?
That's the fun part!
You get to meet all the people
who've been affected by your work,
all your fans.
That's gonna take getting used to.
So, where to next?
That's actually why I am here.
The world is this big, beautiful, wonderful place...
but it's missing something.
It's missing you.
And I realized something
in between Shanghai and Tokyo...
What's that?
That I can write from anywhere.
And I'm free to live the life that I wanna live.
That life is wherever you are.
Can I tell you a secret?
Yeah.
You getting your book published
and ending up here with me in New York
was my Christmas wish to Santa.
Can I tell you a secret?
Mm.
It was mine, too.
In fact...
Is that mistletoe?
Do you know how hard it is to find mistletoe in March?
[laughs]
And why did you need to?
Because it dawned on me
that you didn't get to complete your last challenge.
"Kiss someone under the mistletoe."
And if I'm gonna be your Christmas Bingo partner,
I need to make sure that you complete all your challenges,
otherwise, your score doesn't really count.
So, you're my partner now, huh?
And just wait until you see what's in store for you
next Christmas.
Kimberly would be proud.
[chuckling]
[***]
Bingo.
[***]