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Woman: In the glitter of tinsel and time,
author Hazel Holley gave us Cordelia,
a little girl who wandered the halls
of the Grand Fairbanks Hotel,
where the chandeliers whispered stories
over marble polished floors.
The magnificent hotel was more than just a setting, though.
It was a character.
Through Hazel's beloved Cordelia books,
read by millions of children over the decades,
Cordelia became their companion.
Graceful, curious,
and quietly brave,
she reminded us all that sometimes not quite belonging
is its own kind of magic.
♪ When the cold December winds begin to blow ♪
Awesome. Here you go. Have a great day.
Thank you. Oh, nice of you to join us.
It was just announced on Insta that the Braxton jewels
are coming to New York.
- The Braxton what now? - Don't you read the news?
I don't consider Insta news,
and your algorithm only shows you
gossip about the royal family.
The Braxton collection has never been on public display before.
- This is a big deal! - Yeah, big deal.
- We have to go! - Okay.
- I'm going to be a little busy. - Huh?
- The book I'm writing? - Oh.
I'm moving into the Grand Fairbanks Hotel until Christmas?
Anna: Right. Ugh. The apartment
is going to feel so lonely without you.
- Who's going to do the dishes? - Okay. It's just for 10 days.
Uh, no. It is for the 10 most festive days
- of the year, Sabrina. - Yeah. You know,
ghostwriting a memoir in a five-star hotel
or listening to Barry do
his annual disco version of "O Holy Night,"
not really a tossup.
I am so curious whose memoir you're writing.
You would tell me if it was someone royal, right?
You know I signed a nondisclosure.
Ugh. Well, they must be rich if they are putting you up
at the Grand Fairbanks.
I know. It makes sense that we're under the same roof.
The deadline's so tight to Christmas.
- How did they find you? - I wrote that piece
for the 50th anniversary of the Cordelia books.
Oh. This is a huge deal, Sabrina.
Your first published book.
I know. I'm just... I'm just starting to feel
a little nervous writing somebody's life story.
Ooh, idea. Why don't we grab a drink at the hotel
once you're all settled? You know, maybe we will meet
a famous actor or a handsome royal.
I bet that's where the Braxtons are staying,
and Lord Braxton is incredibly private.
He would definitely hire a ghostwriter.
- Nice try. NDA. - Ugh! A-OK.
At least promise me to enjoy the hotel while you're there?
You've been all work and zero sparkle lately.
- Okay. I promise I will try. - Hmm.
The floor is yours.
On to the next chapter.
♪ And spirit of the holidays above ♪
♪ It's feeling merry ♪
♪ Throughout the town ♪
♪ We'll be feeling Christmas ♪
♪ All around ♪
Hi. Sabrina Parker, checking in.
Man: Miss Parker, merry Christmas,
and welcome to the Grand Fairbanks.
I'm Leo. I'll be your concierge.
Oh. So nice to meet you.
We have you staying in the Cordelia Suite.
The... Cordelia Suite?
Mr. Westcott is expecting you in the penthouse suite
for high tea at 4:00 PM.
The holidays are a magical time at the Grand Fairbanks.
One never knows what might happen.
Ooh!
Man: I understand. The piece was appraised at $2.4 million.
Excellent. Alright.
I'll ship it out today.
Happy holidays, Mr. Clooney.
Sabrina, it is so nice to finally meet you in person.
- You're lovely. - Oh, you, too. Thank you,
and thank you so much for the suite, Mr. Westcott.
- Well... - It's really special.
Cordelia brought us together,
and I thought it was just most appropriate.
- Yeah. - And you managed to capture
the essence of Hazel Holley in your article,
and that is not an easy thing to do.
I think that she is the greatest children's author of all time,
and the Cordelia books are why I became a writer.
Why don't you have a seat?
Yes. Of course.
So, where do we start?
First painting I ever sold?
The time I traded a sculpture for a penthouse?
I... I don't know what would be interesting nowadays.
This... this is all just my life.
You have brokered some of the biggest art deals
in history.
Why tell your story now?
I'm not getting any younger,
and I'm hoping that what we do will inspire people to dream
like I did.
I love that. Okay. Let's get started, since we only have
- until Christmas Eve. - Okay. Alright.
You said you're going out of the country?
Yes. I just moved to Rome. I'm opening a new gallery there.
Oh, wow. Uh, do you mind if I record our conversations?
No. Please. So, Sabrina,
this project is... is very, very important to me.
Oh, me, too.
"Hazel Holley's prose reminds us that life,
much like the hotel at Christmastime,
glows with doors waiting to be opened,
and perhaps that's Cordelia's lasting legacy,
the quiet understanding that even the briefest places
"we pass through leave their light with us forever."
My article.
Yes, and it's beautiful.
If what you write for me is half as eloquent as that,
I will be a very happy man.
- Okay. - Let's get started.
Twenty...
I'm starving.
Um...
Okay.
Hi! Yes. Can I order
your cranberry Claus turkey sandwich?
No. No. You're closed.
Is... is your bar kitchen still open?
Three more minutes. Okay. Can you put an order in
and I will be right there to pick it up?
Okay. Thank you so much. You are a lifesaver!
Ian: Everything seems to be going well so far.
Thank you. Yes. I'll... I'll do my best.
Um, I'm going to have to call you back.
Sabrina: Mmm.
Thank you.
- Excuse me. - Hmm?
Why are you eating my sandwich?
Oh, no. This is not your sandwich.
- This is my sandwich. - I think you might be mistaken.
No. I think you might be mistaken.
That's a great robe.
You headed off to a slumber party?
Sorry. You can have mine.
That's very sweet of you. I appreciate it.
- Okay. Well, goodnight. - Listen. Wait. Wait.
I'm... I'm teasing you.
Please, stay. Eat.
Why stop now?
Sure. Um, so, are you...
You're visiting from... England?
London. Yeah.
Holiday? Work?
- Um, a bit of both. - Mm.
I work for a charity,
and we have a... we have an event in the city.
And you? Are... are you visiting from...
- Oh, I live here. - Okay.
I mean, I'm... I live in Brooklyn. I'm not...
I'm in the hotel for a writing assignment.
Something tantalizing, I hope.
I can't really talk about it.
Oh, stop. Well, now, you've got me intrigued.
Let me... let me guess. Um...
- Politicians. - Mm.
No. Too droll.
Um, saucy celebrities.
Too crass. Okay.
Um, God. It's not royals behaving badly, is it?
Okay. So, which one of those are you?
None. Sad thing. My... my drama potential is virtually nil.
Okay. Well, I should be getting back to my slumber party.
Wait. Wait. Um...
You know, the night's still young.
Maybe I can buy you a drink?
Aw. You said you weren't saucy.
Technically, it's morning,
and the bar is closing.
Well, look. Um, if you ever fancy another stolen sandwich
and painfully awkward small talk,
I'm here until Christmas.
- Enjoy. - You too.
- Yours. - Mine.
And I'll...
- Merry Christmas. - Merry Christmas.
Sabrina: So, how did you get into the art world?
My father was a painter.
Did he do anything I would have seen?
Not unless you went to Plattsburgh, New York.
He was a house painter.
He would work hard all day,
but at night, he would come home,
and he would paint these beautiful, vivid landscapes.
I remember sitting and watching him paint for hours
when I was a child.
Where are those paintings now?
They're in my private collection.
- Mm. - And they are appraised at
zero dollars.
But to me, they're priceless,
because they always remind me of a very important lesson.
- Which is? - My father never believed
that his art had value.
He painted houses till the day he died.
Which is why you help artists
find audiences and make a living.
Everyone must know their worth.
Excuse me, young man.
A butler should glide silently,
never too eager,
always composed.
Almost sounds like you're speaking from experience.
Are you?
I was a butler when I was young,
right here in the Grand Fairbanks,
and very few people know that.
Okay. We... we have to include this.
I don't think that's a good idea.
Oh, Grayson, I mean,
all parts of your past only add to your brilliance,
and it also helps make you a little more human
in the best possible way.
- I don't think so. - Oh.
Well, at least tell me about it,
and then we could decide later?
You are very persistent.
I want your readers to feel like they know you,
truly know you.
Well, I suppose I could share a little,
and then we'll figure it out.
- Thank you. - Where to begin?
It was Christmas, 1969.
I was 18, and I thought I had it all,
a uniform, a decent paycheque.
And I was the butler to Hazel Holley,
right here in this suite.
Grayson, what would you give a turtle for Christmas?
I beg your pardon, Ms. Holley?
I'm writing Cordelia At Christmastime,
and she's quite keen on giving her pet turtle a gift.
Mm. Perhaps she could transform its tank into a snow globe,
a sort of miniature winter terrarium.
Splendid. I like that.
Glad I could be of assistance, Ms. Holley.
- Oh, please, call me Hazel. - Mm.
Miss Holley makes me sound like a spinster,
- or worse, a librarian. - Ugh.
Please, sit.
Oh.
So, Grayson, tell me about yourself.
Oh. Born and raised upstate. I've been at the hotel
three years now, since I was 15.
And what do you plan to do after this?
This. I'm content here.
I meet all kinds of interesting people,
- like Grace Kelly... - Mm.
- Sammy Davis Jr. - Mm.
- Oh, Nat King Cole. - Mm-hmm.
Oh, Frank Sinatra.
- You. - Ah!
Well...
- But I do wonder. - Mm.
Imagine a life where you're not just a part
of someone else's story but the author of your own. Hmm?
I'll think about it.
Mm. This needs just a touch more amaretto, mm?
- Yes. - Yes.
Hazel treated life like an adventure
that she was personally invited to.
I really hope that you decide to tell me
more about Hazel and Cordelia and the hotel.
I mean, I know that readers will love
this chapter of your life. I already do.
Take some time and get to know the Grand Fairbanks.
She's like Hazel,
one of a kind.
Woman: Beautiful. It just came in this morning.
Yes. It'll be here.
Oh. Careful. It's been known to cause spontaneous twirling.
Would you like to try it on?
Oh, thank you, but I... I couldn't. That's not necessary.
Girl, you don't have to buy it to feel beautiful in it.
Okay.
Oh, it's gorgeous.
You planning on lifting that, too?
Ha, ha.
I'll give you a minute.
I'm, uh... I'm Ian. Please to properly meet you.
I'm sorry. Do you mind? Uh...
Oh! Yes, of course. Yeah.
Uh, okay. Let me see.
Got it.
Absolutely stunning.
The necklace. I... The... I mean the necklace.
- Yeah. - Yeah.
Stunning.
Um, I don't think so, though.
Why don't I put it on hold in case you change your mind?
Anticipation is the soul of enjoyment.
Elizabeth Gaskell.
Impressive. She's the subject of my thesis.
What's your name, my fellow literary aficionado?
I'm Sabrina Parker.
I'm staying in the Cordelia Suite.
Lucky you. I love those books.
Oh, don't even get me started.
I'll put this on hold.
You know, I need to leave before she convinces me
that I need to buy the matching earrings.
Right. Um, fancy some air?
So, as a literacy lover,
you must be enjoying the Cordelia Suite.
Guilty as charged.
I mean, there's nothing better than seeing the look of joy
on a kid's face when they... when they read a good book.
- Thank you. - Do you have kids?
No. No. No kids. Not yet.
Uh, the charity I'm here with
is a literacy initiative called Read For the Stars.
That's wonderful.
The benefactors of the charity have, uh,
a bit of a soft spot for the city.
I have to say, I'm starting to see why.
The energy, the people.
You must love it here.
Oh, I do.
I do, especially around the holidays.
I mean, it just gets a little brighter,
a little softer.
Even the cab drivers are nicer.
Well, it's my first time in the city,
so if there are any secret hotspots you know about,
I hope you share them.
Um...
- Oh, uh... - Oh, here.
- Thank you. - I will...
Sorry.
Oh, dear. Um, one second.
- Yeah. - Hello.
Okay. Don't do...
Don't do anything until I get there, alright?
I'm coming... I'm coming right now.
I'm sorry. I think I'm going to need to dash.
Oh, of course.
Um, I hope I can meet you later for a drink?
Oh, I, um... I already have plans.
Uh, another time, then, I hope.
Man: Do you have anything that matches those earrings?
Come on, Ian. Take a hint.
So sorry.
If money were no object,
which it is not,
which of these would you chose?
How can a girl pick just one?
Oh.
Spencer: Do you mind if I see the ring? Sizing, of course.
Ian: Oh, oh, oh, oh! Hello. Well, it's time
for your nap, eh? That jetlag must be catching up with you.
I'm sorry. He's not himself.
- To be continued. - Well, we'll see,
because they look expensive. Let's go.
- They aren't that expensive. - Well, uh... Duh, duh, duh!
Oh, come on. Let's go.
Have you lost your mind?
An angel walks among us.
How could any mortal man resist?
Please, please tell me
she doesn't know you're Lord Braxton.
Oh, Spencer, I promised your mother
I would keep you out of trouble.
Mother will adore her, alright?
Tabitha... Tabitha. Tabitha. Tabby. Tabby.
Tabby Cat is working at the hotel
while she finishes her PhD.
She's studying Elizabeth Gaskell and has a fondness
for roasted chestnuts. I've never met anyone
who loves roasted chestnuts as much as I.
You remember why we're here, right?
The exhibition to raise money for charity,
not to... to satiate your love life.
I'm perfectly aware why we are here.
Why else would I agree to this public appearance?
No. The press... the press is like a fruitcake at Christmas.
Nobody truly wants them. They just keep turning up.
So, what's going on with Tabby Cat?
We're going to see the Rockettes.
- Ah. - And I was just picking
something nice for her to wear.
You know,
a scarf is something nice to wear.
Perfume is something nice to wear,
not $50,000 worth of extravagant jewelry.
- Oh. - I suppose I should be grateful
it wasn't an engagement ring.
I just met her.
Are you mad?
- Are you? - Am I?
You proposed to Sherry at Chamonix after 48 hours.
- So? - You proposed to Elena
in Greece after about two weeks.
- Opa. - And let's not forget Ingrid,
whose proposal I found out via skywriting.
Wrote it in the sky. That's sorcery.
You propose marriage faster than the ball dropping
- on New Year's Eve, mate. - It's called being romantic.
You ought to try it, Mr. Humbug.
- I would love to try it... - Huh.
If I wasn't solely in charge
of keeping you out of trouble.
- Is this about your ex? - Ah.
Sorry.
Look. I haven't found the one, either,
but Tabby Cat certainly has potential!
- Dah, dah, dah! - Potential!
I don't want to hear it. We have bigger kippers in the pan,
you and I. We are meeting with the museum curator,
so I need you to be on your best behaviour
to go over the final arrangements.
That sounds about as romantic
as the time that you and I got food poisoning
from the chippy at uni.
Ugh. Don't remind me.
Could you have ordered a bigger drink?
I tried. They wouldn't let me.
Oh.
- Really? - What?
I always wear this when I go out,
which you would know if you ever came out with me.
The tag is still on.
Whatever. Where are them royals at?
You know, probably petting their polo ponies or foxhunting.
- I don't know. - You are no fun.
Let's let them be royals on their own, okay?
Whatever. Cheers.
- Salut. - Ah!
The museum is thrilled you chose us
to debut the Braxton jewel collection.
Well, as you may know,
Lady Braxton grew up in New York,
so this city has a very special place in her heart,
and with the proceeds
going to the Read For the Stars charity,
it wasn't exactly a difficult decision for us.
- Are you eavesdropping? - We're just grateful
to have real royals in attendance.
- Can you be cool? - I'm cool. Are you cool?
- Can you be cool? - Can you be cool?
I think that is Lord Braxton.
Who? Him? Oh!
Oh, uh...
Sabrina?
Huh.
Ian?
Hi!
Okay. So, wait. Let me get this straight.
Lord Braxton... like, the Lord Braxton,
who has not revealed that he is a Braxton... is into you?
- Maybe? - And obviously,
- you are into him, too. - I just met him.
He's nice, a little private.
Yeah. He is notoriously private.
That's his thing. He's like an enigma.
He never lets himself be photographed in public.
I don't know why, because he is clearly hot.
He's really cute. But I mean, like, what would
- what would he want with me? - Oh, please. You are my queen.
You could be his queen.
Oh, there is one thing, though.
He is a serial proposer.
What, like, marriage proposals?
Mm. He proposed to a woman after three days once.
They call him the runaway lord.
His actual name is Spencer, though.
Oh, no. No, no, no, no. He said his name was Ian.
- Yeah. Of course he did. - What do you mean?
Well, Sabrina, he's not going to use his real name.
He is a royal. He's obviously keeping things on the down low.
Okay. That seems just, like...
- Do you think? - Mm-hmm. All I'm saying is,
keep your eyes peeled for a little blue jewelry box.
- Oh, come on. - I got to go.
The cats won't feed themselves.
- Keep me posted. - Goodnight!
- Sabrina.
- Oh. - Hi. I'm sorry.
The concierge told me you'd be out here.
- Mm-hmm. - Um, is
- is your friend alright? - Oh, my friend.
Yes. Sorry. She was just royally f
really flustered,
just about the magic of the holiday season!
Well, uh, actually, that's
that's what I wanted to talk to you about.
I was kind of hoping you'd show me
one of those secret holiday spots only locals know.
Huh.
Do you like to party?
I think so.
Huh.
Maybe "party" means something different across the pond.
I mean, it's not Piccadilly Circus
or Buckingham Palace,
but it's my idea of a good time.
I practically grew up here.
It's where I discovered the power of story,
how it shapes us,
how we get lost within the magic,
and they have the largest collection
of children's Christmas books in the state.
At Christmas, they always held all kinds of events,
author signings, book readings,
white elephant book exchanges.
My mom volunteered here,
so it's always been my home away from home.
Used to? They don't anymore?
People just aren't interested.
Without the resources, it's hard to get them engaged.
Mm-hmm. Yeah. No. I understand.
Books are getting lost in our high-tech world.
So, tell me about that, um, that charity that you mentioned.
Read For the Stars.
We offer one-to-one tutoring
to children with learning difficulties.
We give them the skills and the confidence
they need to thrive.
We've seen kids go from barely reading
to giving speeches to hundreds of people.
It's... it's transformative.
It's rewarding to see them grow.
Stays with you.
Yeah, it really does.
You... you could be anywhere in the world,
doing anything,
but instead,
you're here,
doing something that actually matters.
This charity, it means everything to me.
And I have to say, I'm finding the company in New York
even more captivating than the skyline.
Sabrina: Okay. So, the lights on the Empire State Building
change colour depending what's going on in the city
or even around the world.
Millions of people are rushing
around this tiny little island,
and somehow, we can all look up
and feel like we're part of something together.
I love that.
Strangers connected by hopes and dreams.
Just a little insecurity with all these go-getters.
I'm curious. What do you have to be insecure about?
I don't know. All sorts of things.
Whoa, whoa, whoa, whoa, whoa!
♪ Jingle all the way ♪
Thank you for that. Uh...
I guess I'm insecure about my clumsiness.
I mean, well, you know,
reindeer crossings and cabs,
it's making it an obstacle course in this city.
If you hold my hand,
I'm not afraid of a bit of adventure.
Where to next?
You know, your energy is contagious.
Well, then you must be the spark.
- Sorry. - Yeah.
Huh. What is there to do in Atlantic City?
Uh, random question.
- I know. - Gambling.
Ah. Well, no worries, then.
Or get married.
I have to run. Um, I'm so sorry.
- Something's just come up. - Oh, I hope nothing serious.
No, no! It's, uh, a date. Uh, an engagement.
Um, you know what? Let's... let's call you a cab. Yeah.
- Okay. - I know. I know.
A crazy, crazy thing, the weirdest thing,
but we're... we're... Everything's been great.
I had such a lovely time, honestly. I really did.
- But... - No, no. Just can't have
too much of a good thing. You know what I mean?
Uh, Grand Fairbanks. Go! Quick!
I've never seen Spencer so focused.
Just straight as an arrow.
Speak with him? Um, he's actually in the shower
at the moment, so I'm afraid he can't talk just now.
You know what? I left the kettle on the boil.
Can I, uh... Can I give you a call back? Lovely. Yep.
Thank you. Bye, bye, bye, bye, bye.
Where on Earth have you been?
I was looking for you half the night.
Where haven't I been? Oh.
Hands. Show me your hand.
- Hand, hand, hand, hands. - Why? Why?
I thought you'd gotten married.
Married? It's only 10:00 AM, mate.
I don't consider nuptials until at least noon.
Eh, I'm not in the mood for your banter this morning, alright?
I'm in the mood for brekky or brunch or lunch. Wow.
You know what I'm in the mood for?
I'm in the mood for you to grow up. You're a lord, Spencer.
Yeah. Once you've grown up, you can never go back, Ian.
I'd be happy to discuss this further,
right after a little nap.
- Sabrina: Humour me, Grayson. - Grayson: Mm.
How does a butler become
one of the world's most powerful art dealers?
You have a gift of turning prying
- into a compliment. - Thank you.
But I suppose it's not fair to, um, keep you hanging.
What do you think Cordelia wants for Christmas,
a spaceship or a fire truck?
Choose carefully. This will determine her future occupation.
A spaceship.
I think she should be an astronaut.
You're a good man, Grayson.
Most men would say she needs another doll.
We know she can do anything.
- She's the future. - Mm.
Good heavens! It's 6:30 already!
- Didn't your shift end? - Well, I'm not in a hurry.
You're 18 years old. You should always be in a hurry
to meet a pretty girl or advance your career.
Actually, I'm staying to work
the Mistletoe Social tonight.
- Oh, good initiative. - Why aren't you going?
It won't be a party without you.
Oh, you'll be fine.
Life has a funny way of showing up
when you're not looking for it, Grayson.
So, did you go?
- Come with me. - Where?
To the Mistletoe Social. It's tonight.
Do you believe it's still around after all these years?
Yeah. I... I... I've heard something about that,
but I... I mean, Grayson,
time is ticking, and we only just began.
Come with me to the social.
I'll tell you the rest of the story.
- I don't even have a dress. - Well, I happen to know
some people who know some people who have exquisite taste.
♪ Christmas is here ♪
♪ It's time for fun ♪
Miss Parker.
You may have just outshone the Christmas tree,
which is not easy to do at the Grand Fairbanks.
You look positively radiant.
Couldn't have done it without you, Leo.
My pleasure.
Sabrina.
- You look like a work of art. - Thank you.
Call it an investment in our creative process.
Well, now. I said yes to sequins and champagne.
- Yes. - Now, it's your turn
to say yes to the past.
What happened at the social?
Being subtle is not your strong suit.
- It is not. - Yes, I did indeed attend.
- Mm. - Shall we?
Yes.
♪ I love the joy we share ♪
I met someone here,
on the floor.
On the dance floor?
Something like that.
♪ Makes me sway ♪
♪ Don't forget about me this Christmas ♪
♪ Whatever you do ♪
♪ Deck the halls with boughs of holly ♪
♪ It makes your wish come true ♪
Are you okay?
- Fine, thank you. - You're underneath a table.
- I'm hiding from my date. - Why?
When he got up to dance, a jewelry box
slipped out of his pocket. I'm worried it's meant for me.
You don't want jewelry? That would be a first in this hotel.
The box was the square kind that holds an engagement ring.
We've only been going steady a year.
So, what's the issue, Miss, uh...
Ash. Charlotte.
I'm only 18. I can't marry anyone yet.
I thought that's what these parties were for.
Girls with parents on the New York social register
meet Ivy League boys and get married here at the hotel.
Ugh. That sounds dreadful.
I want to do more with my life than eat cucumber sandwiches
at the Ivy Court. Thank you very much.
What is it you want to do?
Study fashion in London.
If my mother finds out Timothy proposed,
she'll be on the phone with the wedding planner
faster than she can run up her Sterling's charge card.
You can't stay on the floor.
♪ To make it special ♪
Dance with me, then.
I can't.
Please.
- Grayson? - Yes.
- Grayson Westcott. - Yes.
It's Bunny, Bunny Malette!
Oh, yes, Bunny.
You look wonderful.
Well, thank you.
- I'm Sabrina. - Oh, yes.
- Hi. - This is Sabrina Parker.
We're working on something together.
Sabrina, would you mind if I stole Grayson
for a quick little drinky-poo?
- Oh, of course. - Yeah.
Have fun.
Mother should be here, not me.
Thankfully, barely anyone recognizes me here in New York.
Well, it's important to me that you're here,
especially since the Mistletoe organizers
chose Read For the Stars as this year's charity.
You are forever the do-gooder, Ian,
and I am grateful to you.
Thank you.
I'm serious.
You're a kind man,
and you make me look good.
- Meow. - There she is!
Looking dangerous ravishing this evening, darling.
Then you'd better keep your wits about you.
Oh, I refuse.
Ian, excuse me.
May I introduce Miss Tabitha Johnson?
Yes. We met at the boutique.
- Hi. - Spencer: Oh.
This charity is so important.
I wish my brother had something like this when he was little.
It was hard watching him struggle.
This charity is the air in my lungs.
Well, I hope he got the help he needed.
A little later than we would have liked, but yes.
- Thank you. - Good. I'm glad to hear it.
As am I glad to hear it.
Yeah?
Would you excuse me for a moment?
- Of course. - Um, short leash.
Sabrina.
Look. I'm terribly sorry about last night.
You look absolutely stunning.
Mm. Stunning enough for you to stick around this time?
I, uh, I called you,
and I texted you earlier. Did you not receive them?
Oh, no. I received them.
Not to judge a book by its cover,
but it seems like you're a little miffed at me.
Well, where's your date for the evening?
Oh. Did you already shove her in a cab and send her home alone?
I see. Not my finest moment.
Do you believe in second chances?
I believe you're on your third.
But I'll let you buy me a drink.
For charity.
- Should we take a seat? - Yeah.
So, how's your top-secret assignment
coming along?
It's different from what I thought it was going to be,
but it's good.
- Still classified? - Yes, and if I told you,
I'd have to write you out of the book.
You know, if you really are CIA,
you're totally wasting your talents with me.
I haven't been inside 10 Downing in years.
Oh, like you're not close with the prime minister.
I wouldn't say we're on a first-name basis. No.
Well, whatever it is, it must be pretty special
to land you a stay here.
You know, you didn't mention
that you're here with the Braxtons.
Well, discretion's my middle name,
especially when that name tends to arrive before you do.
Mm.
But this, this...
The fundraising, the cause,
that's what really matters to me.
That... That's...
That's wonderful.
I mean, something like Read For the Stars
would just be so good for this city.
I was one of those kids.
I struggled. The words blurred.
The... the letters danced around the page.
It made me feel like I was a bit of a lost cause.
Then one tutor thought I was worth the trouble.
He had me read out loud with rhythm.
Mm.
It was like music.
Something clicked.
Changed everything.
Well, is a New York chapter a possibility?
We're trying to reach as many children as we can.
You know, you are
you are not how I expected you to be.
You're very humble, very grounded.
I aim to be pleasantly unpredictable.
Oh, well...
I mean...
What?
You know, I should... I should get back to the party
and leave you to your obligations.
Sure, but I want you to know
this has been my favourite obligation by far.
♪ I'll keep you warm ♪
♪ In December ♪
So, how was Bunny?
Dramatic, elegant, and slightly over-perfumed
As expected.
Okay. Grayson, you have to tell me now.
Did you end up dancing with Charlotte?
I did.
Would you care for a spin?
Sure.
♪ And snow ♪
♪ This heart that glows ♪
I shouldn't be dancing with you.
First rule of being a butler at the Grand Fairbanks
is doing whatever a guest says.
There's still plenty of time for your boyfriend to propose.
Then we'll dance all night,
and tomorrow, peppermint cheesecake at the Carousel.
My treat.
♪ If it could be so ♪
♪ Then you'd keep me so warm ♪
♪ In December too ♪
May I cut in?
Oh. Uh, of course.
Great.
- Grayson. - Hi.
Where'd you disappear to?
Sabrina.
♪ Warm when the cold breezes blow ♪
May I have this dance?
I'd like that.
♪ My arms so lovin' ♪
♪ A kind of oven ♪
♪ To melt the sleet ♪
♪ And snow ♪
♪ This heart that glows ♪
Sabrina, I need to tell you something.
The last few days,
I haven't been able to get you out of my mind.
It's like unwrapping
a Christmas present you didn't know you wanted
but now you can't imagine being without.
I feel the same.
♪ You'd keep me so warm ♪
♪ In December too ♪
- Ian. - Yes?
- Are you... - Hopelessly in need
of seeing you again?
♪ Then you'd keep me so warm ♪
But I have to go.
♪ In December ♪
Obligation beckons.
♪ Ooh it's cool in December ♪
Again? Really?
♪ Please keep me warm ♪
♪ In December too ♪
I'm sorry.
I promise I'll explain everything.
Ian: Maybe four dozen cookies? How does that sound?
Perfect. Thank you so much. I really appreciate it.
You're the best. Thank you.
Absolutely. Yeah. I'll make sure that they're there.
- Hey. Oh, hold on. Spencer! - Yes?
What time did you get in last night?
I was looking for you all morning.
- Oh, not bad. Half four? - Half fo...
What happened to a short leash?
I chewed through it. See you at the car.
He chewed through it.
Okay. What is your deal?
Uh, you're going to have to be more specific.
I don't know if you're coming or going or what is going on.
I mean, what is with all the mystery?
You know, it's funny you mention mystery, actually,
because I have a... a little surprise that I planned tonight
- if you're free. - Oh, goody. More mystery.
I promise I won't run out on you this time.
Please?
Okay. If you do,
you better keep running all the way to merry old England.
I wouldn't dream of it. I promise.
Ian!
I do, however, have somewhere to be just now.
Why am I not surprised?
Hi. Yes. Delivered promptly at 7:00.
- Spencer: Ian! - Yes, please.
Oh!
Thank you. Yeah. Got to go. Got to go. Bye. Spencer!
Thank you so much for this.
This place is perfect for the exhibition.
Emily: Well, the response has been incredible.
You can see here that the descriptions
are per your approvals.
Great. Yeah. Amazing. Thank you.
And we were particularly intrigued
by the chocolate diamond engagement ring.
Who wouldn't be?
So, is it true the queen herself gave it
- to the elder Lord Braxton? - Oh, yes.
The royal family badly wanted Grandfather to settle down.
He finally did when he proposed to my grandmother.
A commoner.
She was the only woman who could tame him.
- Emily: Mm. - After he passed,
Grandmother gifted the ring to me
in hopes that I'd finally settle down.
One can only hope.
One can only try.
Grayson: That handsome young man you were dancing with
last night, he seemed to have departed pretty quickly.
Yeah. That's actually Lord Braxton from the Braxton family.
He, um... he had something to attend to.
The Lord Braxton?
I know. I don't feel like I fit in
with the royal world, but...
I do enjoy his company.
Okay, enough about me.
I was searching the Times archive,
and I couldn't find any wedding announcements
for a Charlotte Ash.
What happened after the Mistletoe Social?
Well...
No engagement ring.
Timothy broke it off with me.
I was so relieved, I nearly kissed him.
My mother, however, was crushed. She's practically thrown me
at every eligible bachelor in the city.
So, that's where you've been?
I told her I'm done with all that nonsense,
and she finally gave in.
I leave end of January
for the Royal Academy of Design in London.
My mother thinks I'm going to snag some British Earl,
but I want my own fashion line.
Well, have you always wanted to be a designer?
Mm-hmm. I've been dressing my Cordelia doll in high fashion
since I was a little girl.
Well, are you free New Year's Eve?
We can ring it in together.
I like you, Grayson, but... I leave in a month.
I've been waiting for this my whole life.
I need to make my way in the world.
Well... we can still spend the time we have left.
Of course.
Sorry, it's...
It's Lord Braxton.
He wants me to meet him at this mysterious thing tonight,
but I just...
I don't know where all this is going.
You know, he lives in another country.
It would never work.
Sabrina
only go because you want to.
That's all that matters.
You're gonna love it. Merry Christmas.
- Thanks. Merry Christmas. - Thank you.
Spencer's friend. How can I help?
It's Ian, actually.
- Tabitha. - Yeah.
I hope I haven't been contributing to your anxieties.
I realize Spencer is a lot to contain.
Oh, no one's more aware, trust me.
He just needs a little guidance.
Provided he's not being guided down yet another altar,
I'm all for it.
This hotel has no shortage of wealthy, attractive men.
If that were my goal, I wouldn't be standing here talking to you.
Noted.
Why do I have the feeling that you're here for
this?
You are good.
I know.
Sabrina: Thank you.
Wow.
Maybe I should have been less mysterious.
Okay. I-I overdressed. Just give me ten, um...
Don't you dare.
It's perfect.
What did you do?
What is all of this?
It's your home away from home.
Oh my gosh, the smell in here,
it is taking me back.
My mom and I would make these cinnamon star cookies,
and Christmas officially began the second they hit the oven.
Do you have any traditions?
Yeah.
My favorite was, uh, the gratitude jar.
We'd each write something down
that we're thankful for, and then we'd take them out
and we'd read them aloud
in front of each other before Christmas.
I thought you were going to say church at Sandringham
followed by a mile-long buffet.
Okay, just because I'm English
doesn't mean my life was an episode of The Crown.
Just because I'm a writer doesn't mean I'm Dorothy Parker.
What do you mean by that?
Last year, I wrote this article that got a lot of positive buzz,
and that led me to getting the job that I have now,
which is bigger than anything that I've ever done before.
I'm worried that I might be in a little over my head.
Aren't we all?
Did you put this all together overnight?
I was feeling inspired.
Librarian: Excuse me, Ian. It's time.
Yeah, yeah. Um, could you hold onto this
for one second for me?
Yeah, sure.
Thank you.
Ho, ho, ho, everyone!
Father Christmas here. Now, who is ready to read.
Cordelia at Christmas time?
"Christmas at the Grand Fairbanks"
"was always Cordelia's favorite time of year."
"The lobby Christmas trees stretched all the way up"
"past the second floor,"
"and the pastries were extra tasty."
I'm sorry. That's my phone.
- Okay. Sorry. - Looks like Santa got
a phone call, but his friend's going to take care of it.
"Cordelia loved many things at Christmastime,"
"the twinkling lights, the smell of cinnamon and pine,"
"but more than anything, she loved giving gifts."
Anna: Do you think you'll get married at Westminster Abbey?
Don't you mean Buckingham Palace?
No, that is only for
official state visits and the occasional garden party.
- Ooh, who knew? - I knew.
And I also know that there can only be one thing in that box,
and it goes on your finger,
and it sparkles, and it is probably huge.
Okay, that's crazy. We only met four days ago.
Yeah, but love doesn't wear a watch, unless it's a Rolex.
He doesn't even know that I know that he's a lord.
Even if he wasn't one,
why would he be interested in someone like me?
You are a successful writer.
Published writer, maybe.
I mean, it's still not my main income.
I still need to work here.
No. I just... I need to... I need to get my feet on the ground.
I need to focus on this book.
I have five more days
to learn as much as I can about this person
before they say, "Arrivederci."
This memoir needs to leap from the pages.
Ooh, I have an idea.
Why don't you bring Lord Braxton to Barry's
ugly Christmas sweater party?
I promise not to wear the tiara this time.
Okay, then I'll think about bringing him.
♪ The spirit calls ♪
So, did Charlotte agree to meet you for New Year's?
No, the story doesn't end
with Charlotte and I eating cheesecake in a diner.
Yoo-hoo, Grayson.
You feeling all right?
You didn't refill the nuts and this martini's been bone dry
all afternoon.
Oh, I do hope you don't have a fever.
Christmas is the worst time to get sick.
All the best doctors are in Florida.
I feel fine.
Oh.
I recognize that look. It's the same one I had
when I followed Marlon Brando around the Beverly Hills Hotel.
- You're a lovesick. - I met someone.
She loves your books, by the way.
Oh, she sounds delightful.
But she's completely out of my league.
She's going to study design in London.
Out of your league? Nonsense.
There must be something you can give her
that no other man can compete with.
I'm not really sure what that might be.
I might. Yes, okay.
Meet me on the seventh floor at 2:00 AM.
Wear all black. We're staging a heist.
- A heist? - A heist?
- A big one. - Oh, dear.
Come with me.
I waited for Hazel right there.
Why do we need gloves?
So we don't leave fingerprints.
What?!
My illustrator gave me this painting,
but I didn't want to hang it in my suite,
so I loaned it to the hotel.
Technically, I still own it.
Well, if you still own it, then why are we stealing it?
If it's mine, then we're not really stealing, are we?
And I want to give it to you.
- To you? - Yes, to give to Charlotte.
What does this have to do with Charlotte?
Because you love art, and she loves Cordelia,
and this is something only you can give her.
I'll be fired if the hotel finds out.
Think of it as regifting. Hmm?
Everyone does it around the holidays.
Do you want to win her over or not?
Yes, I do.
All right, well, then, I'll write you an official letter
saying that the painting belongs to you.
But how was it ever going to work?
Charlotte was going to London.
I loved her so much.
A grand gesture to convince her to stay was my last hope.
Did it work?
Let's just say the biggest risks in life
are the ones you don't take.
I'll see you tomorrow.
Okay.
Thank you.
I thought you said formal wear.
Ooh. I meant festive.
♪ This year, I'm gonna hold you close ♪
Sabrina, you're here!
Oh, of course! I wasn't going to miss it.
Um, this is my date.
Mr. Bond, I presume.
Well, um, I hope you don't mind me staying,
despite violating the dress code.
Sabrina, I didn't think... you...
Anna?
Are you having a stroke?
Hi. It's nice to see you again. It's Anna, right? I'm Ian.
Oh, I... I know who you are.
Hey, it's time for eggnog, right?
Eggnog? Eggnog? Eggnog! Eggnog! Eggnog.
That accent really makes some people act ridiculous.
Right, guvnor?
Hit me.
- What are you doing? - I'm getting a drink.
No, back there.
It is protocol to curtsy when you meet royalty.
Okay, well, he doesn't know that I know that you know
that he knows that I know that you know that he's a royal.
That's a lot to unpack.
What if he is going to propose here tonight
in front of everybody?
No!
None of that's happening, okay?
Just... be cool.
I'm cool. I'm cool!
Oop!
Barry: Okay, everybody, let the games begin!
♪ Joy-oy-oy-oy-oy-oy all around me ♪
♪ Making my heart feel sweet like a candy ♪
♪ Oh, holy night ♪
No!
♪ Under the Christmas tree ♪
♪ Dashing through the snow ♪
♪ In a one-horse open sleigh ♪
♪ Under the Christmas tree ♪
So, why aren't you dating a princess,
or Baroness, or someone famous?
I'm not sure I'd exactly say they're my type.
I'm a very simple guy.
I like a good pub and a Sunday roast.
Okay, my equivalent would be
a good book and Famous Ray's pizza.
I don't often meet women like you, Sabrina.
I think I'm moving in the wrong circles.
Oh, well, I'm too square to be in any circles.
I don't know. I've probably been too absorbed in my writing.
I haven't really left time to find
love.
I find love a little tricky, too.
What do you mean?
When I was at Oxford,
my girlfriend at the time went home on Christmas break.
And when she came back, she said we were incompatible.
Oh. Did you love her?
Let's just say our definition of love was a little different.
Hers had conditions, mine didn't.
I think love should be unconditional.
Even our worst days, it's an opportunity to grow.
I've always thought that, too.
- Can I tell you a secret? - Yeah.
I read every one of your articles I could find.
Oh, all three.
I like your perspective.
You treat people with fairness and you try to find
the good in people, regardless of the situation.
There's something I need to tell you...
- Okay. - About, uh,
what I do for a living.
Okay, okay, group selfie,
for my Insta! Everyone get in!
Okay.
- Here, let me take it. - No, you have to be in it.
Trust me, I'm better on this side of the camera.
Okay.
Everyone say, "tuxedo".
All: Tuxedo.
Sabrina: So, what were you gonna tell me at the party?
I'm sorry?
Before Barry interrupted us with the photo.
- ♪ Here comes the bride ♪ - Oh, yes, I was, um...
Oh, there's a wedding.
Isn't that romantic?
No.
Wait. I think that's Tabitha from the boutique.
I wonder who the lucky guy is.
Oh, his luck's about to run out.
Would you excuse me for just one second?
♪ Love united in all eternity ♪
So good. Could I borrow you?
- Yes. - What's going on? Why...
- It's called a capella. - Why... why... why...
Spencer: What?
Is Tabitha holding a bridal bouquet?
Oh, she caught it.
Oh, yes, yes.
The other girls never stood a chance.
Ian: Listen to me.
What is going on?
- What? - What is going on?
Breathe, Ian. Tabitha and I saw the party and then we joined in.
It's called having a laugh. You ought to try it sometime.
Having a laugh?
- Yes. - I should just have a laugh.
A laugh.
I should just have a laugh.
I don't think that was a real laugh.
Oh, come now, you're fit to be tied.
Go back to your date
before some more attentive bloke snaps her up.
Hey, hey.
I'm very attentive.
Not attentive enough. Try these strawberries.
- I don't want a strawberry. - They're fresh.
- Just one bite. Ian... - I don't want a strawberry.
- Ian! Ian!
I'm so sorry.
You know the groom?
Oh, he's not the groom, thank goodness.
But yes, he's an old friend from uni.
Oh. So, he's here for the Royal Exhibit, as well?
I hope so. Yeah.
Um...
Oh, excuse me.
- Yeah. - It's London.
- I'm sorry. Would you mind? - No, go ahead, sure.
Hello, Lady Violet.
Yes, yeah, absolutely.
You're coming to New York?
Lovely.
Tomorrow?
H-he will be elated.
Bye. Bye.
Lady Braxton and Lady Violet are coming to New York
for the Royal Exhibit opening.
You mean your mother and your grandmother?
Wait. You think I'm...
Hello, hello, hello.
Hi, I'm Sabrina.
Hello, Sabrina.
You're Ian's college roommate?
Yes. Poor fellow's been stuck with me ever since.
And you're here for the Royal Exhibit?
- Y-yes. - Yeah.
- Yes. - Yes.
You should come.
Ian'll put your name on the list.
You know, I'm sorry. I didn't catch your name.
My name?
Oh, excuse me. The strangest thing,
all of a sudden, just got absolutely exhausted.
I think it was all the excitement of the day.
- We should... - Spencer: We should what?
You know, we have so much to do now that Lady Violet
and Lady Braxton are coming to New York.
- They're coming? - Yes.
- Spencer: To New York? - Tomorrow.
- Oh, sh... - Should we retire?
- Yes. - To the rooms?
- To the rooms. - To prepare.
- Yes, yes. - Yes.
Lovely to meet you.
Yeah.
I'll go see Tabby to a cabbie,
then I'll meet you up in the room, all right?
- Ian: That's perfect. - Spencer: Great.
- Tabby... - I really am sorry.
I did have an amazing night tonight.
I...
I hope I get to see you tomorrow.
Spencer: Small thing...
Yeah.
Delicious!
Oh, I had so much fun with you tonight.
As did I.
So, what are we getting up to tomorrow evening?
Well, about that...
I'm afraid we're going to need to hit pause for a short time.
But I'm coming to your royal opening.
Well, that was before I found out
that Mumsy is going to be attending.
And, well, we wouldn't want you two to cross paths.
And why is that?
Well, I may have a history of moving too quickly
in relationships, and I wouldn't want her to think
that you're just another one of my...
Oh, go on.
One of your mistakes?
Yes, but no.
No, no.
Look, I'm just trying to make this easy.
I can make this real easy.
No, Tabitha. That's...
That's not what I meant.
- Tabitha: Good night. - Tabitha, I...
I'm usually the one getting you out of hot water.
Hmm.
And I've got myself in the mother of all muddles.
You think you're up the spout? I think Tabitha just dumped me.
What did you do?
Why do you assume I did something?
You have a bit of a track record, man.
Yes, well, you're one to talk.
Why didn't you tell Sabrina the truth?
Because I was already dreading
telling her that I'm your secretary.
Now, somehow, adding 'not a royal' to the pile.
Ian
you are loyal, brilliant,
and the only reason I'm remotely functional in public,
or private for that matter.
I sometimes regret asking you to be my secretary.
I'm holding you back.
I wouldn't trade our years together
for anything in the world.
Nor I.
So, go tell Sabrina that you panicked for my sake,
protecting my privacy.
I'll join you both for dinner,
and then we'll set the record straight.
Thank you.
Of course.
I just wish I could tell her on my own.
Why is this so hard?
Because, old boy, you're properly smitten.
As am I.
Where are you going?
To find Tabitha, to make things right.
Well, wait. You need to be back by first thing.
Your mother arrives in the morning. Spencer.
How is your suite, Lady Violet?
Positively splendid. Thank you for rearranging
everything at the 11th hour.
Of course. And Lady Braxton?
Oh, she's much improved.
And she insists that she feels entirely at home here.
So.
Where is Spencer?
Oh, well, you know Spencer.
I'm sure he'll be here any moment.
Ah, it appears he's avoiding his mum.
How's he been behaving?
Honestly? He's a changed man.
Ah, and that means that he's met someone,
but hasn't yet proposed.
I think you might quite like this one.
She's a post-grad at NYU studying Elizabeth Gaskell,
and she runs a boutique here in the hotel.
Hmm. Academic and gainfully employed.
We may have to take her seriously.
And what about you, Ian?
Is that flush on your cheeks from the crisp winter air
or is there someone new in the picture?
Is it that obvious?
Yes.
Her name's Sabrina Parker.
She's a guest at the hotel, a writer.
Well, you know we only want the best for you.
I consider you as part of this family.
Speaking of my... role,
there's something I wanted to speak to you about
in regards to Read for the Stars.
Mm.
I was thinking
we should make a permanent chapter here in New York.
New York?
The children here deserve the same opportunities I had,
and with your family's longstanding affection...
It's rather a lofty idea.
Ian: I know.
But I wouldn't be asking if I didn't feel so strongly.
Very well. I'll give it some thought.
But now, I need you to find my son.
Oh, I will find Spencer, I promise.
Thank you, Ian. What would we do without you?
So, did Charlotte meet you at the New Year's party?
Yes, she did. We had a wonderful night.
Guests: Five, four, three, two, one.
Happy New Year!
It's the most magical kiss of my life,
as if time had stopped.
That's so sweet.
But Sabrina, time doesn't stop for anything,
not even love.
I love you, Grayson.
But we both know I have to go.
I know.
But there's something I need to give you
before you make up your mind for good.
I've already made up my mind.
London is my... dream.
You don't want me to have to give up my dream, do you?
Will I ever see you again?
I promise I'll come back.
I don't know when.
But we'll be together again
somehow
some day.
♪ Should old acquaintance ♪
♪ Be forgot ♪
♪ And never ♪
♪ Brought to mind? ♪
Sabrina: Wait.
You... you didn't stop her?
No.
I decided I'd rather break my heart than break hers.
So, I take it you didn't go to London
to find Charlotte?
No.
I enjoyed every minute that I spent with her, but
we were just too different, so...
But after all these years,
I've learned to live with the decision I've made.
♪ We'll take a cup ♪
♪ Of kindness yet ♪
♪ For auld lang syne... ♪
Come on.
Voicemail recording: Please leave a message at the tone.
Spencer,
I need you to come back here.
Your mother's on the warpath,
and we're supposed to be having dinner with Sabrina tonight.
I just...
Just call me back, or text me,
or send a carrier pigeon. I don't care.
I-I can't do this on my own, mate.
I really need you.
And I don't ask for much.
Spencer, I know you're hurting over Tabitha right now,
but please,
I hope you're not planning what I think you're planning.
If she really is as special as you say she is,
you have to take your time with her.
Just come back, mate.
Talk to me.
Please don't fall back into your old tricks.
Voicemail recording: End of messages.
To delete...
Hiya, handsome.
Hello, gorgeous.
You ready?
Yes.
- Great. - I'm ready.
Sabrina "Dear Ian, somewhere along the way",
"I convinced myself that love would be enough."
"But love doesn't always build bridges between two worlds."
"Sometimes, it shows us how far apart we truly are."
"So, I'm choosing to break my heart"
"before I break yours."
A penny for your thoughts.
You're not yourself today.
Sorry, I'm just my head.
Something to do with that Lord Braxton?
In a way.
You know, we are like you and Charlotte, so...
I took your advice.
What advice?
We are from two different worlds.
So, I broke it off with him.
That's the lesson you took away
from the story I've been telling you?
Yeah, and that you were good with the decision that you made.
No, no, I said I was able to live with the decision.
I live with regret every day.
No, but you've... you've lived such an inspiring life
the artists you've discovered, the lives that you've changed.
No, no. I should have tried harder.
I should have made it a priority.
When one finds a love like this,
you do anything you can
to not let it slip through your fingers.
You need to know the end of the story.
Please.
"My dearest Grayson...
Charlotte "My father's business"
"has gone bust."
"Our friends in London have offered to let me stay for free,"
"if I help look after their daughter."
"Please don't worry about me. This is a temporary setback."
"All my love, Charlotte."
You're young, Grayson.
You have your whole life ahead of you.
And if you reach a point in life
where the only soul you have to love is a little girl
and her pet turtle, well, then, you have something,
and something is always better than nothing.
Did you believe that?
No.
Not following her cost me the love of my life.
And Hazel was about to leave too.
I'm stagnant here. I need a new adventure.
You should consider moving on too.
Why would I leave the Grand Fairbanks?
I have other guests who need me.
Have you not listened to a word I've said
about being the author of your own story?
This is all I know.
You're not like other butlers.
Most keep their heads down, but you,
you're always thinking, always observing.
Now, I have a friend in Los Angeles, he's an art dealer,
and he's looking for a new assistant.
I love art, but I don't know anything about selling it.
Well, he'll train you. You already know
the high society life better than anyone
their style, their taste.
Yeah, but Los Angeles is flashy; It's not me.
Darling, that's exactly why you should go.
Recognize opportunity when it knocks, Grayson.
It's time you and I, and Cordelia grow up.
That's when Hazel stopped writing
and moved to the Amalfi Coast.
Yes.
After a lot of soul searching, I took her advice.
My confidence was tested 1,000 times,
but I kept going,
without my dear Charlotte.
Here. There are, um,
many more letters in here, if you care to look at them later.
Thank you.
Charlotte "Dear Grayson",
"I desperately miss New York,
"and, most of all, I miss you."
"Design school's a distant memory,"
"and my days are filled babysitting children"
"that are not my own."
"I often dream about what would have happened"
"if I had stayed with you."
"Perhaps I would be caring for our children,"
"happy and content."
"Yours, Charlotte."
Ian: It's safe to say, we might do this again.
Everything looks fantastic. Thank you so much.
When the ladies arrive, I...
Lady Violet, Lady Braxton, you both look beautiful.
Well, we couldn't be upstaged by our own jewels.
Oh.
Still no Spencer.
Traffic.
I thought the chocolate diamond engagement ring
was to be the centerpiece of the exhibit,
but I don't see it on display.
Lord Braxton was here earlier and he asked to take it.
I thought you knew.
Would you ladies excuse me for a moment?
Sabrina.
I thought I'd never see you again.
The letter, I know. I'm sorry. That was...
There's... there's something I need to tell you.
- No, please, let me go first. - I just need to explain...
Ian, the press want me to say a few words.
Could I please have a copy of the speech?
- Ian: Yes, of course. - Thank you.
And who is this vision of loveliness?
Oh, I beg your pardon.
Please allow me to introduce Miss Sabrina Parker.
Delighted to meet you, Sabrina.
Charmed. Don't you think we could start with
something a little less formal?
Ian: Yes, of course.
Your collection is just stunning.
Oh, and your locket is beautiful.
I've had it since I was a young girl in New York.
Oh, wow. I knew that you were fond of the city,
but I didn't know that you lived here.
Oh, I love New York, especially at Christmas,
and the cheesecake is like nowhere else on earth.
Come along, Mother.
You need to join me at the front.
I just wanted to say it was so nice to meet you
and I... I think the world of your so...
Emily Merry Christmas!
Thank you. Thank you so much, guests and members of the media,
for coming to "A Royal Affair."
- Shall we? - A sneak peek of the Braxton
family jewel collection.
And we are just so thrilled to have both Lady Braxton
and Lady Violet here.
Round of applause.
We are so proud to announce that 100%
of the proceeds from this exhibit
will go to Read for the Stars,
the crown jewel of the Braxton Family Foundation.
And I would like to thank my mother,
Lady Braxton, for travelling all this way with me.
Oh, and the current Lord Braxton, my son, Spencer.
Oh, wait. He...
Thank you, Mumsy.
Hello,
all you wonderful people and members of the press.
Now, I'm not big on speeches,
but I just want to say thank you all for coming, and thank you
especially to my charming date this evening,
Miss Tabitha Johnson.
Please join us.
Tabitha, Mum.
Now...
Oh.
If he's Lord Braxton, that makes you...
Sabrina, this has been a terrible misunderstanding.
I'm so sorry.
- Oh my God. - Sabrina...
Spencer: Now, evenings such as this don't just come together...
Sabrina: Oh my gosh.
With jewelry and lofty donations.
Ian: Sabrina.
Spencer: Though we are grateful...
Ian: Sabrina.
Sabrina
please wait.
I tried to tell you, I really did.
Tell me what?
You mean tell me who you really are?
I mean, have you been lying this
this whole time? Has any of this been real?
The way I feel is as real as it gets.
I just never thought in a million years someone like me
would be good enough for someone like you.
But I was falling for you, Ian,
not a title.
I just... I clearly...
I clearly don't know you at all.
Spencer: So, please join me in applause
for those dedicated souls who helped put all this together.
Ian, join us.
Oh, it's all good. Let's get a picture.
Okay.
Smile, Ian. It's a party.
Okay, that's enough.
I can't believe that tomorrow is Christmas Eve.
- I know. - Thank you.
I'm going to miss you, Sabrina.
Me, too. It's been fun.
Yes, it has, and I will make myself available
to you from Rome, in case you need anything.
I want this memoir to defy your expectations.
Well, I'm sure it will.
This process has been far more cathartic
than I imagined it ever could have been.
I'm so glad it helped.
It did. So, speaking of which,
what's happening with Lord Braxton?
Oh. The man I fell for is not Lord Braxton.
No, I am living proof that fairy tales do not exist.
Well, that's unfortunate.
But do you care for this man?
I do.
I mean, I did. I just...
I don't know that I could trust him again.
Well, I hope you get the chance to find out.
Ian, are you all right?
We've got to leave soon for the airport.
Lady Violet, there's something I have to say.
The tutor you secured for me back in Eton changed my life,
and not just because he taught me how to read,
but because he showed me I wasn't broken.
The children here in New York
have the same potential.
I don't want to just drop in and disappear.
I want to build something lasting, like we did in London,
like we could all over the world.
Let the Braxton name stand for something;
let it stand for hope for children everywhere.
I have a plan.
"Dear Grayson,"
"I hope that you are enjoying Christmas."
"It's hard to believe a year has passed since I got married."
"The irony of my new station in life is not lost on me."
"Although, there are some undeniable perks"
"that come with the title."
"With love, Charlotte."
She's going to study design in London.
Sabrina: Your locket is beautiful.
I've had it since I was a young girl in New York.
Oh!
Grayson!
- Grayson! - What?
- What's the matter? - One second.
Are you all right?
Charlotte... is Lady Braxton,
and she is here in the hotel right now.
I know. I know.
- You know? - I know, yes.
Why didn't you say anything?
Because I'm too old to chase magic.
What?! No! You told me
that life is about recognizing opportunity
when it presents itself,
and this, Grayson,
this is more than that.
This is fate, and you don't mess with fate.
Is she still here?
She's still here.
Okay.
Come on!
Lady Braxton?
Grayson.
You still recognize me.
I would know you in any lifetime.
Charlotte.
Charlotte...
Sabrina: Lady Violet?
Do you know where Ian is?
He and Spencer are just ahead of us, heading to the car.
Thank you.
- Oh... - It's so good to see you.
Leo: Christmas holiday.
Leo!
Have you seen Ian?
I'm sorry, their car just left for the airport.
Wait!
Hey...
Grayson "Art draws us in",
"begs us to look closer.
"Love can do the same, if we're brave enough to really look.
"Both found me when I wasn't searching...
Grayson and Sabrina "in the quiet corridors
"of a grand hotel long ago.
"I realize now that love isn't waiting for the right moment...
Sabrina "...it's seizing it."
"You can't waste your life settling for anything less"
"than extraordinary love."
Ian: I suppose it's your turn to run out on me.
Thought you were on your way back to London.
As soon as the Braxtons were all set at the airport,
I came right back.
Why?
Because I've fallen for you, Sabrina,
harder than I ever thought possible.
And because...
I couldn't leave
without giving you your Christmas present.
- Oh, you shouldn't have. - Oh, well, you know,
if it's too much, I could likely take it back.
Don't you dare.
It's perfect.
I'm sorry I wasn't honest with you.
I know you didn't mean to hurt me, Ian.
I could have talked to you sooner.
Deep down, I think I was afraid
that I wasn't good enough for Lord Braxton.
You're enough for any Lord,
any prince, any king, anywhere on this earth,
and you're more than enough for me.
How's this gonna work?
You being an ocean away and me being...
Well, I spoke to Lady Violet.
We're bringing the charity here.
Now, that's a plot twist I didn't see coming.
Sabrina Parker
would you like to spend Christmas here with me
in New York this year?
Just this year?
This time last year, I embarked on a journey
that I thought would be about art deals,
but the real story was you,
and it's always been you.
Since that Christmas that you taught me to open my heart,
I've...
I've spent years searching for success.
But the truth is what I was searching for was a feeling,
a feeling that I only had when I was with you,
and I was scared I would never find again.
Charlotte, you are the greatest love I've ever known.
Merry Christmas.
I love the painting.
Their story's so romantic.
Mm-hmm.
I can see why it's a bestseller.
I've already started working on the sequel.