- 6 days ago
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00:00:47I am so happy the city let you buy the building instead of moving forward with demolishing it.
00:00:52Community needs a gathering place, right?
00:00:55But this place does need a lot of upgrades, that's for sure.
00:00:58More than you bargained for?
00:01:00We found a few surprises during our inspection process, but overall it's what I expected.
00:01:05I mean, the building's over 70 years old.
00:01:08Exterior is mostly cosmetic, so structurally, the building is sound.
00:01:14Now, what are you thinking for the inside?
00:01:17We're definitely going to have to redo the main hall to accommodate for larger events, and we're going to be
00:01:23upgrading the kitchen facilities so that we can offer cooking classes, community dinners.
00:01:28Offering new programs would be a welcome change, bring more people back in.
00:01:32Yep.
00:01:33We're even going to be adding some audiovisual equipment, so we can do presentations.
00:01:37Movie nights.
00:01:38That's a great idea.
00:01:39Right?
00:01:39It's the old whiteboard we use for community meetings now.
00:01:42Yeah.
00:01:42How about accessibility?
00:01:45New ramps for sure, and we're going to need to update the bathrooms so we can accommodate for people with
00:01:49disabilities, even entertaining an elevator.
00:01:54Might be a nice addition for the seniors.
00:01:57Renovations will start in the new year, but in the meantime, I'm going to get going on some minor work
00:02:01to the event hall.
00:02:03You see, I'm planning on reestablishing the Christmas party as an annual event, just like it was in the past,
00:02:10you know?
00:02:11Get people excited about this place again.
00:02:14Man, it is not every day that we get to revamp such an important part of our community.
00:02:18I'm looking forward to seeing the final result.
00:02:20Yeah, me too.
00:02:23This place was like my second home.
00:02:26Played on every sports team, volunteered for every event, and even learned how to sew here.
00:02:34So?
00:02:36Yeah.
00:02:37Uh, Mom thought it would be a useful life skill.
00:02:42Is it?
00:02:45Not really.
00:02:47I mean, I can sew a missing button for you, or hem your pants if you need me to.
00:02:51Oh, perfect. I'll bring them all over to your house then.
00:02:54Sounds good.
00:02:57Sorry.
00:02:59This company has called me six times this past week.
00:03:03Oof.
00:03:03Who are they?
00:03:05Clark & Johnson Development.
00:03:08Some acquisitions firm.
00:03:09They want to buy the building.
00:03:10That name sounds familiar.
00:03:12Really?
00:03:14Well...
00:03:14Yeah.
00:03:15Let's see here.
00:03:22No way.
00:03:23What?
00:03:27Victoria Mason works there.
00:03:32Oh, boy.
00:03:34Yeah.
00:03:36Yeah.
00:03:45Eric, hi.
00:03:46I just pulled into Brook Hollow.
00:03:48Owner of the center, still ignoring our calls.
00:03:50Well, you can't ignore me in person.
00:03:52I just got into the parking lot.
00:03:54Oh, great.
00:03:56You brought this project to us along with the new building design idea.
00:03:59Do you still think you can convince them to allow us to proceed with the rebuild?
00:04:03Absolutely.
00:04:04This community center is old and run down.
00:04:07Our design plans are incredible.
00:04:09We do have another center in mind to invest in instead.
00:04:13No, no, no.
00:04:14I mean, no.
00:04:16I know that I can get this deal to go through.
00:04:19Just give me a few days to try.
00:04:21I grew up in Brook Hollow.
00:04:22This center was the heart of the town.
00:04:25I have a lot of good memories here.
00:04:27I really want to see it developed into something the town could be proud of and enjoy.
00:04:32Okay.
00:04:32Well, I've seen you in a room.
00:04:34You can convince anyone of anything.
00:04:37Thank you, sir.
00:04:38I'll be back in a few days with all the signed papers.
00:05:08The center's closed.
00:05:12Luke?
00:05:15You know, I had this sinking suspicion that your company would send you.
00:05:20We heard the center was sold while we were trying to acquire it.
00:05:23Do you know who bought it?
00:05:25Here, hold these for me, will you?
00:05:27Okay.
00:05:29Some private investor made a last-minute offer to the city.
00:05:33They didn't reveal a name.
00:05:34Well, maybe they wanted to remain anonymous.
00:05:38Luke?
00:05:39Nothing in this town remains anonymous?
00:05:41Do you know who bought it or not?
00:05:42Yes.
00:05:44I did.
00:05:46What?
00:05:47Why?
00:05:50Because I heard the building was going to be torn down?
00:05:52No, torn down and a new one rebuilt.
00:05:54A better one.
00:05:56We're happy with this one.
00:05:57We're?
00:05:58What are you, the spokesperson for the whole town?
00:06:01Lots changed around here since the last time you were home.
00:06:04Yeah, I see, um, you're hosting the old Christmas party now.
00:06:08Yep.
00:06:12Okay, well, what if we could do something in the new year?
00:06:19The Christmas party could be a send-off, a goodbye to the building of sorts.
00:06:22I just bought it to renovate it.
00:06:25I'm not selling.
00:06:27So, why don't you tell your company to stop calling me when you get back to the city?
00:06:31Well, the Luke I used to know was more interested in renovating historical buildings and cool craftsmen homes,
00:06:38not some run-down community center.
00:06:42Hmm.
00:06:44Victoria, it's been a long time since you and I have spoken to each other.
00:06:49Perhaps I'm not the same guy that you remember.
00:06:54Hmm.
00:06:55Besides, this community center has a lot of history here in Buccarolo.
00:06:59And that means something to most of us.
00:07:05Could you, uh, please just take a look at our proposed design?
00:07:10Would you look at the time?
00:07:11I would love to continue this conversation.
00:07:13It's gonna have to happen another time, because I have dinner plans.
00:07:17Okay.
00:07:18Tomorrow, then.
00:07:19Hmm-hmm.
00:07:20I'm not gonna be changing my mind.
00:07:25We'll see.
00:07:29Yes, we will.
00:07:51So, since when is Luke Johnson interested in owning a community center?
00:07:55I don't know, dear.
00:07:57I thought you said he worked for an architecture firm.
00:08:00You'll have to ask Luke those questions.
00:08:03Since when are you so tight-lipped?
00:08:06Are you calling me a gossip?
00:08:07Hmm.
00:08:08Never.
00:08:10All I know is I'm happy this turn of events brought you home for a visit.
00:08:14Well, I'm only staying long enough to get the sales paper signed.
00:08:17I won't be able to stay for Christmas.
00:08:19But at least you're coming to the city for New Year's, right?
00:08:21I wouldn't dream of missing an opportunity to watch the ball drop from Times Square.
00:08:26Good.
00:08:29Uh, grab an extra one.
00:08:33Hello?
00:08:35Mom, you invited Luke.
00:08:37He hired me to plan the Christmas party.
00:08:40We're going over the details tonight.
00:08:42Besides, I had no idea you would be here.
00:08:44This is such a huge conflict of interest.
00:08:47You two will figure all this business stuff out.
00:08:49Maybe a nice dinner will help.
00:08:52Oh, just in time.
00:08:54Hey.
00:08:56So good to see you.
00:09:20Heavenly Father, as we come together for this unexpected special reunion,
00:09:25we bow our heads in gratitude for the gift of old friends.
00:09:31We thank you for the bonds that unite us and the shared memories that have shaped us.
00:09:37We thank you for this meal.
00:09:39And may your blessings flow upon each of us, embracing us in your grace and peace
00:09:45in this season of love and forgiveness.
00:09:49In Jesus' name.
00:09:51Amen.
00:09:53Amen.
00:09:59So, Victoria's company wants to rebuild the community center.
00:10:04So, I've heard it.
00:10:06Yeah, the city approved the preliminary designs last month,
00:10:08and then, uh, someone swooped in and talked the city out of the deal.
00:10:14A deal that never should have been considered.
00:10:16Luke has some wonderful remodel ideas himself.
00:10:19Huh.
00:10:20I just mean that maybe you two could work together.
00:10:28This is really nice.
00:10:31That was delicious.
00:10:33I'd love to stay, but I really need to get going.
00:10:35Well, we haven't gone over the plans for the Christmas party,
00:10:37and you haven't had dessert.
00:10:39But I trust you, and I know you're going to plan the perfect event,
00:10:43and I also need to watch the Christmas sugar intake.
00:10:47It's so good to see you.
00:10:51Why don't you see Luke out?
00:10:56Sure.
00:11:08So, I'll see you tomorrow morning at the center.
00:11:12Um, look, Victoria, it was great seeing you,
00:11:18but you're wasting your time.
00:11:20I told you, I'm not selling the building.
00:11:26Have a safe trip back to the city.
00:11:39All right, let's go.
00:11:41Let's get a little 2-on-0 here.
00:11:43I was seeing Victoria again.
00:11:46Fine.
00:11:47I mean, super weird.
00:11:49Yeah.
00:11:50She's really only come back here to try to get me the cell.
00:11:52It's probably halfway back to New York by now.
00:11:54Well, I did see a rental car with New York plates
00:11:57parked outside the cafe about an hour ago, so...
00:12:02Yeah, she's not going to give up that easy.
00:12:05So, what you're saying is the community center's hers.
00:12:09What?
00:12:10No.
00:12:11No way.
00:12:12Come on.
00:12:12Since when have you been able to say no to Victoria Mason?
00:12:15Uh, for starters, when she broke things off
00:12:17about a month before our wedding.
00:12:19I just don't think that it's right
00:12:21that she could waltz back into town whenever she wants
00:12:23and try to make changes to a community
00:12:24that she doesn't belong to anymore.
00:12:25Hey, don't get caught flat-footed out there.
00:12:28Keep your feet moving.
00:12:29Okay, well, maybe while she's here,
00:12:31help her reconnect with the community.
00:12:33She'll have a change of heart.
00:12:35Victoria's never been one for small-town living.
00:12:37Yeah, but she's always loved Christmas.
00:12:40Hey, look.
00:12:41Remind her how special it is
00:12:42this time of year here in Brookhollow
00:12:44and how the community center plays a role in that.
00:12:52We're looking good this year.
00:12:53Of course we're looking good.
00:12:55Because you're the coach.
00:12:55He's a great Thank you.
00:13:59Eric, hi.
00:14:00How's it going?
00:14:02It's going great.
00:14:03I just met with the new community owner yesterday.
00:14:06Are they open to selling?
00:14:08Not exactly, but don't worry.
00:14:11After I show him the new design plans, I'm sure he'll consider it.
00:14:15Consider it?
00:14:16No, no.
00:14:16He'll sell.
00:14:18Just send over the buyout offer as soon as you receive it.
00:14:21Financing is finalizing numbers now.
00:14:23We'll talk later.
00:14:24Okay.
00:14:29Rachel!
00:14:30Hi.
00:14:31I hope so, okay.
00:14:32I'm here.
00:14:33Yes.
00:14:34Your mom let me in.
00:14:35She stopped by the store yesterday from where Woolen said you were coming home for Christmas.
00:14:39Well, not for Christmas.
00:14:40Just a few days.
00:14:41But it's so great to see you.
00:14:42Okay, sit down.
00:14:43Sit down.
00:14:44Oh, it is like stepping into a time capsule in here.
00:14:48I know, right?
00:14:50Mom insisted on leaving everything exactly as it was.
00:14:54A lot of fun memories.
00:14:56A lifetime ago.
00:14:58Although everything feels oddly the same.
00:15:00It's a bit unnerving.
00:15:01Nothing changes around here.
00:15:05Life in the big city must be exciting, though.
00:15:08It is.
00:15:10My work at Clark and Johnson keeps me pretty busy, though.
00:15:13But I do get to travel a lot.
00:15:15You always wanted to travel.
00:15:17Have a big corner office.
00:15:19And speaking of work, I hear you're trying to buy the community center.
00:15:24If Luke would stop being so stubborn.
00:15:26He's refusing to sell.
00:15:28Yeah, it says he wants to preserve history.
00:15:30But what history?
00:15:31The place isn't a cherished landmark.
00:15:33It's an old, run-down gymnasium with a bunch of event spaces and...
00:15:37What?
00:15:38Hmm?
00:15:39I didn't say anything.
00:15:41You have a terrible poker face.
00:15:42What is it?
00:15:44I'm just saying maybe go with a softer approach on this one.
00:15:49What do you mean?
00:15:51I mean, you left town so abruptly.
00:15:54I needed to get to New York for the position or risk losing the opportunity.
00:15:58It all happened fast.
00:15:59I know.
00:16:00But this time, maybe give Luke a little time to realize it's okay to let go of something
00:16:05that means so much to him.
00:16:07You mean have patience.
00:16:09Not your strong suit.
00:16:10I know.
00:16:13I'm just saying it's the season of goodwill.
00:16:17Maybe embrace the Christmas spirit.
00:16:20Hmm.
00:16:21Mm-hmm.
00:16:23Breathe.
00:16:24Christmas in, Christmas out.
00:16:27Embrace the Christmas spirit.
00:16:29Embrace me too.
00:16:30I like that.
00:16:31Embrace the Christmas spirit.
00:16:33Yeah, you can do it.
00:16:36Hey, Bryce.
00:16:37Thanks for calling me back.
00:16:38No problem.
00:16:39Just leaving the courthouse.
00:16:40What's going on?
00:16:41Uh, well, I may be sending you some legal documents.
00:16:45For the sale of the community center?
00:16:47Wait.
00:16:49The news travels pretty fast.
00:16:50Don't worry.
00:16:51I'll make sure you get a good price for it.
00:16:52Oh, no, no, no.
00:16:52I'm not actually planning on accepting the offer.
00:16:55I just like another set of eyes on the paperwork.
00:16:57That's all.
00:16:58Listen, Luke.
00:16:59I get that the community center means a lot to you.
00:17:01But you're going to have a lot of your own cash flow tied up in the renovations.
00:17:04It's not like the center's going to turn a profit.
00:17:07Yeah, I understand that it's a bit more work than I originally thought.
00:17:13But I'm just not okay with some big corporation coming in and destroying the heart of this
00:17:17community with some big flashy building.
00:17:20Just saying.
00:17:21Maybe you should let Victoria have what she came for before you get attached to something
00:17:25else you'll miss.
00:17:26Oh, no.
00:17:27I see it doesn't have that effect on me anymore.
00:17:31If you say so.
00:17:33I'll talk to you later, okay?
00:17:47There you go.
00:17:48Oh, thank you, dear.
00:17:50Thank me.
00:17:53I know my offer on the community center was accepted because of your influence on the committee.
00:17:57Oh, my son is reluctant about renovating.
00:18:01He was ready to sell to that firm in New York.
00:18:05I know.
00:18:07But I promise you, I'm not going to let you or Mary Kingston down.
00:18:11I have faith in you, Luke.
00:18:13By the way, I was going to let you know that I still haven't found those photo albums that
00:18:17you've been asking about.
00:18:19I'm going to check the garage later today, though.
00:18:21Oh, thank you.
00:18:23I just want a little bit of home in my room at the senior center.
00:18:28Yeah, of course.
00:18:29I'll find them.
00:18:31I certainly do miss it here.
00:18:35Hey.
00:18:37This is still your home.
00:18:39Hey, you are welcome here anytime.
00:18:41Oh, Luke.
00:18:44I'm so glad to have you here.
00:18:45Oh, it's good to be here.
00:18:47Merry Christmas.
00:18:48Merry Christmas.
00:18:51So great catching up.
00:18:54You too.
00:18:56Hope to see you again before you leave town.
00:18:58Oh, I will make sure of it.
00:18:59Okay.
00:19:00Oh, and hey, if Luke isn't willing to hear you out, maybe you should talk to Mrs. Kingston.
00:19:05Our high school English teacher?
00:19:07Yeah.
00:19:08Her son was just elected town mayor last month.
00:19:12He's away on a business trip, but she has a lot of pull on the committee.
00:19:15Might be able to help.
00:19:18Some place to start at least.
00:19:19Yeah.
00:19:20See ya.
00:19:21See ya.
00:19:24See ya.
00:19:43Luke?
00:19:45What are you doing here?
00:19:47I live here.
00:19:49Guess you heard about our new mayor?
00:19:51What do you mean you live here?
00:19:53Like, since when?
00:19:55Since I bought the place.
00:19:57Last year.
00:19:59Ah.
00:20:00Please come in.
00:20:02Oh.
00:20:09Oh, I didn't even know this place was for sale.
00:20:12They didn't have it listed.
00:20:15Some private sale through extended family.
00:20:17I got a call from an architectural firm.
00:20:19They were offering me a contract job to fix this place up so it could be sold.
00:20:24I mean, Mrs. Kingston, she couldn't keep up with the repairs and the maintenance.
00:20:27And I didn't want the integrity of the original house destroyed, so I jumped on it.
00:20:32I met with the family that intended to buy the house and...
00:20:37Well, let's just say they had different ideas.
00:20:41I mean, they practically wanted to rebuild the entire house.
00:20:44No, you can't destroy the history of this place.
00:20:48Huh.
00:20:51Yeah, I wish you had that same opinion about the community center.
00:20:55Okay.
00:20:56That is different.
00:20:58This...
00:20:59Just continue your story.
00:21:03Anyway, I put in my counteroffer, and knowing how much that I love this house, Mrs. Kingston
00:21:09accepted it.
00:21:11She was just happy that her family home wouldn't be torn down.
00:21:16Or modified beyond recognition.
00:21:20Well, it's a beautiful home, so I'm very happy for you.
00:21:25You know, I, um...
00:21:29I know that we, at one point in time, talked about owning this house together.
00:21:34Oh, well, believe me, I mean, the last thing I'm interested in is owning an old Victorian home in a
00:21:40small town.
00:21:43Right.
00:21:44Right, right.
00:21:47Well, you're probably here to see Mrs. Kingston.
00:21:49She lives over in the seniors' complex now.
00:21:52Okay.
00:21:53Well, I guess I'll head over there.
00:21:55You know, if you're trying to rally support for your cause, it won't work.
00:22:02You see, it was Mrs. Kingston that influenced Brent to accept my offer on the building.
00:22:07She's on my side.
00:22:08Right.
00:22:09Uh, well, you underestimate how persuasive I can be.
00:22:14Believe me, I don't.
00:22:17Since you're gonna go see her, though, on your way out of town, you could help me.
00:22:21I'm looking for some photo albums that she was asking for.
00:22:24You could take them right to her.
00:22:25I don't know, uh...
00:22:27But you want to win her favor, don't you?
00:22:36Fine.
00:22:37Let's go look for those photo albums.
00:22:50What is all this stuff?
00:22:53When did you accumulate so much?
00:22:55Most of it's the Kingstons.
00:22:57Mrs. Kingston didn't have anywhere to store all this stuff, so I told her she could keep it here.
00:23:02Oh.
00:23:03I just might have to break out the Christmas decorations.
00:23:08If you stop being so annoying, maybe I'll let you help.
00:23:13You know, we should really start looking for those photo albums.
00:23:30Oh, I found them.
00:23:33Oh, wow, check this out.
00:23:35It's their old wedding photos.
00:23:38Aw, she looked beautiful.
00:23:42Man, look how happy they look.
00:23:44Well, most people are on their wedding day.
00:23:47The unique thing about the Kingstons is they were happy every single day for 50 years.
00:23:54You know, I think that you and I could have lasted that long together.
00:23:58No way.
00:23:59We fought too much.
00:24:01Well, didn't you hear all the stories that Mrs. Kingston used to tell about the early years of their marriage?
00:24:05No.
00:24:06Okay, my favorite one was probably how their eldest daughter got her name.
00:24:11Mel?
00:24:12No, I have not heard this one.
00:24:14Okay, the way the story goes is that Mr. Kingston wanted to name her Anne after his grandmother,
00:24:18but Mrs. Kingston wanted to name her Mel, short for Melissa.
00:24:22And they fought about it and argued for days and days leading up to the christening.
00:24:26And finally, Mr. Kingston just said, I'm the man, I make the decisions.
00:24:32That would never work these days.
00:24:34It didn't work then either.
00:24:36Because Mrs. Kingston, she's so strong-willed, she's determined, she waited patiently right up until the moment
00:24:42that the priest asked what the baby's name was.
00:24:44And without pausing, without waiting for Mr. Kingston, she just said, Melissa Anne Kingston.
00:24:49Ah, good for you, Mrs. Kingston.
00:24:51What was Mr. Kingston going to say?
00:24:53Like, in front of the priest, in front of the family, in front of the friends?
00:24:55It was really awesome.
00:24:58Oh, so that's why he still calls her Aunt.
00:25:01Yeah.
00:25:02Oh.
00:25:02It drove Mrs. Kingston nuts.
00:25:06But she still loved him.
00:25:11And for the record, I think we fought because we're both passionate about what we want.
00:25:18Well, in our case, we want very different things.
00:25:23I don't know.
00:25:26I think we wanted the same thing.
00:25:28We just went about it a very different way.
00:25:35Well, now that we found this, I should probably get going.
00:25:40Before I do, would you please take a look at my company's design for the building?
00:25:46Fine.
00:25:56Okay.
00:25:57Yeah.
00:25:58Here is the new building design.
00:26:03Tell you what.
00:26:05I'll make a deal with you.
00:26:06Why don't you help me decorate this place, and then we can look at the designs.
00:26:11Luke, you already agreed to look at them.
00:26:13Right, but I, uh, I reserve the right to make some changes.
00:26:18Luke.
00:26:21Do it yourself.
00:26:22You can head back to your company and tell them it's a firm no.
00:26:26Um, I praise the spirit of Christmas.
00:26:32What?
00:26:33Nothing.
00:26:34Um, fine.
00:26:38I will help you decorate.
00:26:41But then you look at the design.
00:26:43Deal?
00:26:44Deal.
00:26:45With rights reserved.
00:26:48This is fun.
00:26:51Cheers.
00:27:10What about, I think it was sophomore year, we tried to bake cookies and then we'll set
00:27:15the kitchen on fire.
00:27:16Those lopsided gingerbread men were so worth it.
00:27:20We're good.
00:27:23I think my favorite was, that was that Christmas party at your parents' house.
00:27:30You know, the one where we snuck up to the attic and watched the snow fall through that
00:27:34little window?
00:27:36Oh, yes.
00:27:37And we almost got in trouble when your mom wanted us to go caroling, but then she totally
00:27:41covered for us and was like, I can't find them.
00:27:45I think she realized we were sharing a special moment.
00:27:53I think that was the same Christmas that we made those handmade gifts for each other.
00:27:59I still have that homemade scarf you got me.
00:28:02Hey, okay, that was my first attempt.
00:28:04I really loved the drawing that you did of us in the snow, too.
00:28:09We made some really good memories.
00:28:13Yeah, we did.
00:28:17There's something about you being here with me now.
00:28:21Makes me think that we could make a few more.
00:28:29We should probably get to looking at those documents.
00:28:34We will.
00:28:35Right after dinner.
00:28:37Luke.
00:28:37Come on, you gotta eat, right?
00:28:40And you can't deny I'm a great cook.
00:28:43Raise the spirit of Christmas.
00:28:45Raise the spirit of Christmas.
00:28:46Raise the spirit of Christmas.
00:28:47So?
00:28:50We will review the documents over dinner.
00:29:01How is it?
00:29:02The food is fantastic.
00:29:05I'm glad you're enjoying it.
00:29:08I take it you don't do a lot of cooking in the city.
00:29:12Why would you assume that?
00:29:14It's just that when I asked for the pasta strainer, you gave me the gravy strainer.
00:29:20Okay, guilty.
00:29:22I get most of my meals from salad bar or takeout.
00:29:27I'm usually just too busy to cook.
00:29:29And besides, in the city, you can order anything you want from anywhere you want, delivered straight to your door
00:29:34day or night.
00:29:35So.
00:29:37You work long hours?
00:29:39Around the clock.
00:29:40But I don't mind.
00:29:41I love my job.
00:29:43Besides, that's what it takes to get ahead.
00:29:47So is that what this community center deal is about?
00:29:52Getting ahead?
00:29:53No.
00:29:55No, I truly believe that the building design that we're proposing would be great for the town.
00:30:01Hmm.
00:30:01Do you really think renovating the old one makes any sense?
00:30:05Yeah, I do.
00:30:08History.
00:30:09Tradition.
00:30:10These are the things that Rekala was built on.
00:30:13And I want to preserve those things.
00:30:18Oh, I still can't believe you bought this house.
00:30:23Like I told you, it's a rescue mission.
00:30:25I didn't really have a choice.
00:30:30It's so beautiful and peaceful out here.
00:30:34Not like the city, where it's just traffic and sirens all night long.
00:30:39But you love the city, don't you?
00:30:42Yes, I do.
00:30:44So is that why you stayed away for so long?
00:30:48You just couldn't tear yourself away from everything that New York City has to offer.
00:30:55When I left, I was determined to become the ambitious and successful person that I felt like I was on
00:31:04the inside.
00:31:05But I could never become...
00:31:09Living here.
00:31:12I understand.
00:31:14I really do.
00:31:17Believe it or not, Victoria.
00:31:21I've always understood you.
00:31:28And I know that you would have resented me if you'd stayed.
00:31:46Okay.
00:31:48Okay.
00:31:54okay so we did a little digging and the new owner was very smart negotiating with the city
00:32:00before they bought the building they were protecting themselves from a situation exactly
00:32:05like this okay but we should still be able to get an offer to buy soon right i mean maybe
00:32:10that would help persuade him yes but the bottom line is if they refuse to sell there's not much
00:32:15we can do fantastic look i know this is special to you but we are running out of time to
00:32:23secure
00:32:23the other potential locations so we need to get this done by the christmas break don't worry eric
00:32:29i've got this just send the offer as soon as you get it oh that's the confidence i like to
00:32:34hear
00:32:34all right we'll talk soon
00:32:44which is getting complicated i'm sure you've met with resistance before
00:32:48this is different and never from an ex-fiancé i think my old feelings for luke are throwing me
00:32:54off my game oh i thought you'd moved on no i did i have mm-hmm and what's going on
00:33:01i don't know
00:33:04i think like spending time with him reminiscing about old christmases we had this nice dinner
00:33:11at the kingston house you know the house that we said that we were always going to buy and raise
00:33:15a
00:33:15family in so are you letting nostalgia cloud your judgment or i'm afraid it's more than nostalgia
00:33:28no luck with mrs kingston well i stopped by the seniors complex but she was in caroling practice
00:33:34i think it's time we gather some community support yeah i mean i know that there are some people who
00:33:39are excited about the idea of the new center you know if the community puts enough pressure on luke
00:33:45he'll have to consider it huh i think i know just the right place to start
00:33:53honey please tell me you're close yep i'm just pulling up now
00:33:59uh-huh
00:34:06hold on a second mom well i need the tree decorated before she gets here yes yes mom i'm getting
00:34:11your
00:34:12tree for you right now oh good and while you're out i need a replacement ball because the angel she
00:34:16gave me has only one eye that lights them hey mom i'm sorry to do this but could i call
00:34:21you back
00:34:21well hurry or i'll have to forget to put that out yeah i'll call you right back
00:34:27what are we doing here oh just talking to some community members about the new community center
00:34:34only there isn't going to be a new community center right this community center has been the heart
00:34:40and soul of this town for decades place filled with memories from children playing basketball to
00:34:46senior bingo nights after church picnics bake sales yes this place is very special
00:34:51and i know how tough change can be and no one is suggesting that we forget those memories what i
00:34:56am
00:34:56suggesting is a new state-of-the-art facility to create new ones the old building is still structurally
00:35:01sound and the renovations that i have planned have a lot of upgrades upgrades can only go so far with
00:35:06the limits of a smaller building this one is three times as big okay bigger is not always better though
00:35:11well more events can run simultaneously bringing in more revenue renovations would be more cost
00:35:15effective though our proposed design includes economically friendly and energy efficient materials
00:35:19look i understand that a new building has its perks but is it really worth losing a part of this
00:35:24town's history well maybe not everyone wants to preserve the history of this place
00:35:28maybe this existing building doesn't mean so much to others
00:35:37i'm beginning to understand that
00:36:04heard about your run-in with luke at the christmas tree farm
00:36:07he's being so stubborn about this only him my company made an offer to the city first
00:36:13he swooped in and by the way you should have told me he now owns the kingston house
00:36:19i thought it might upset you well certainly wasn't how i pictured being in that house with him
00:36:29these are so tiny donations for the hospital for the babies born over christmas
00:36:37look i know that you always hoped i'd settle down here
00:36:40and marry luke start a family of my own have babies
00:36:46darling girl i am so proud of you and all you've achieved would i like grandbabies someday sure
00:36:55but only if that's the life and future you want
00:36:59you have never and will never disappoint me following your heart
00:37:06thanks mom
00:37:10are you happy
00:37:12most days
00:37:14except this business trip is proving to be a bit more difficult than most
00:37:17well personally i think the new community center is going to be great
00:37:20well hopefully other people agree with you
00:37:24most do
00:37:25well i know the new owner isn't very impressed with me
00:37:30have you told him why it's so important to you
00:37:36well maybe you should
00:37:42are you baking dad's favorite fruit cake
00:37:46i do every year
00:37:48but no one else likes it we always refused it
00:37:52no
00:37:54but i made that cake for him every christmas for almost 30 years
00:38:00the smell reminds me of him
00:38:01me too
00:38:20renovations are a bit presumptuous don't you think
00:38:23no i don't
00:38:26can you just like take a break for a second
00:38:29i brought cinnamon eggnog lattes
00:38:33victoria i still have a lot of work to do here
00:38:36can we just take a walk
00:38:51i want to apologize
00:38:53for
00:38:55for some of the things i said at the tree farm
00:38:58i just really believe that the residents here would benefit from the perks of a community center
00:39:02and corporate sports sponsorship
00:39:05i don't completely disagree
00:39:08thank you
00:39:10yes the new center might be great for the residents
00:39:12i said might
00:39:16but it's not going to be great for my local construction crew that i hired to do all the renovations
00:39:21these guys
00:39:22these guys really need to work
00:39:23but i've seen your company listed on some major developments in the city
00:39:27it seems like your guys are quite busy
00:39:30my company has projects in new jersey boston and new york but we hire local crews for each one
00:39:36not a lot of work going on here in brookhollow
00:39:40okay so what if
00:39:43we hired your crew to do the rebuild
00:39:46you can do that
00:39:47i mean if i was actually considering selling it
00:39:52i can try
00:39:54but if you can
00:39:57we can have that conversation
00:40:02bye
00:40:05so your mom
00:40:06did she tell you that she signed you up around the hot chocolate stand at the tree lighting
00:40:10you're kidding right
00:40:11nope
00:40:13she failed to mention that
00:40:17so i've been thinking
00:40:19all this bickering back and forth between us
00:40:20it's been a lot of fun
00:40:21don't get me wrong
00:40:22but i was wanting to know if you wanted to try something a little different
00:40:25what do you suggest
00:40:26well seeing as we're at a standstill with the community center
00:40:30i thought maybe we could
00:40:31you know
00:40:33enjoy the christmas festivities together
00:40:35like old times
00:40:37i don't know
00:40:38oh come on
00:40:40decorating the kingston house that was a lot of fun
00:40:44what do you have to lose
00:40:46embrace the spirit of christmas
00:40:53fine
00:40:53but promise me you'll keep an open mind about selling
00:40:57i should have an offer for you soon
00:41:00i promise
00:41:01i promise i'll keep an open mind
00:41:14we mentioned christmas festivities
00:41:16i was envisioning old christmas movies and snacks
00:41:20not freezing to death watching kids play hockey
00:41:22you used to love hockey
00:41:25correction
00:41:26i did not love hockey
00:41:28i loved watching you play
00:41:32that was pretty good one night
00:41:39so what kind of christmas traditions would you be engaging in if you were in the big city
00:41:43well every year my company hosts an annual christmas party where we invite all of our clients and corporate sponsorship
00:41:50partners
00:41:53a work event
00:41:55really that's it
00:41:56oh it's it's way more fun than it sounds
00:42:01okay maybe it's not that fun
00:42:03but it's also our annual celebration of success you know where each of the agents have perfect track records get
00:42:11awards it's like a big deal
00:42:13hmm
00:42:14am i messing up your chances for this year's award
00:42:18yes
00:42:19i do apologize
00:42:20well i'm not giving up that easy
00:42:23i still have time to convince you to sell
00:42:26speaking of have you looked over to the designs
00:42:30uh no
00:42:36okay look i said i would and i will okay trust me
00:42:44these sponsorship opportunities you mentioned
00:42:47yeah we partner with some big sports stores
00:42:49they'll donate equipment as well as funding it's really worth considering
00:42:53hmm
00:42:58yeah
00:42:59yeah
00:43:02nice shot
00:43:11yeah
00:43:17yeah
00:43:17yeah
00:43:17yeah
00:43:17yeah
00:43:17yeah
00:43:32no
00:43:55You okay?
00:43:57Don't worry about the trees.
00:43:59This is kind of their purpose.
00:44:01Nah, just being here reminds me of cutting down our family Christmas tree with my dad.
00:44:07Oh, yeah.
00:44:09Christmas just isn't the same without him.
00:44:12So is that a part of the reason that you haven't been home since you passed?
00:44:17A big part.
00:44:18It's just easier to celebrate in the city.
00:44:21You know, being here, so many traditions remind me of him.
00:44:24It's just not the same.
00:44:27I miss your dad, too.
00:44:31You know, he was...
00:44:34He was like a father to me after I lost my dad.
00:44:38What an inspiration he was.
00:44:40That's why I got into architecture in the first place.
00:44:43He would have been so proud of you.
00:44:47Why didn't you tell me that your dad was the one who designed the center?
00:44:53You finally, finally saw it.
00:44:56I told you I would.
00:44:58I guess I just didn't want to guilt you into selling it.
00:45:02I wanted you to see the value in it the same way I do.
00:45:06It's an amazing design.
00:45:08Your father was one of the best.
00:45:13Does that mean you're willing to sell?
00:45:19I think it puts another point in your favor.
00:45:24So, when did he design the center?
00:45:28Um, about a year before he died.
00:45:31Right when I took the job.
00:45:32He asked me to present it to the company.
00:45:34And I did, several times.
00:45:37But it wasn't until recently, with my track record of acquisitions,
00:45:41that gave my boss the confidence in my judgment calls
00:45:43that he finally accepted it.
00:45:47By then, dad was already gone.
00:45:53So, this is your way of preserving your father's legacy?
00:45:56To honor him?
00:45:59Yep.
00:46:02What about you?
00:46:04Why do you want to preserve it so bad?
00:46:09Well...
00:46:11The happiest moment of my life.
00:46:16The night I had proposed to you,
00:46:17after the annual Christmas party, and you said yes.
00:46:21It happened in that center.
00:46:22Luke.
00:46:23It's okay.
00:46:27I guess...
00:46:30Letting go of the center.
00:46:34It would mean saying goodbye to the last place that we were in love.
00:46:40I'm not staying.
00:46:43I know.
00:46:46But you're here now.
00:46:54So, Luke told me you signed me up for the hot chocolate stand
00:46:57with the tree lighting.
00:46:58Oh, you volunteered for that event every year.
00:47:01I thought it'd be nice to have you there again.
00:47:03I'm sure everyone would be glad to see you.
00:47:06I really need to get back to the city.
00:47:09If Luke signs these sales papers, I probably won't be here for the tree lighting.
00:47:13If you aren't, I'll take the shift.
00:47:18It's just been so nice having you home this Christmas.
00:47:22And it seems you and Luke have set aside your differences.
00:47:27Temporarily, at least.
00:47:29Yeah, we've been having fun.
00:47:42Everything okay?
00:47:44Uh, yeah.
00:47:44I just received the buyout offer.
00:47:47You having second thoughts?
00:47:48Uh, no, no.
00:47:49Not second thoughts.
00:47:50I guess I just realized why he needs to hold on to the place.
00:47:55Well, whatever the two of you decide, I'm sure it'll be the right thing.
00:47:59Thanks, Mom.
00:48:09Good stuff today, guys.
00:48:11Good stuff.
00:48:16Hey, Victoria.
00:48:17Good to see you.
00:48:19Nice to see you.
00:48:20Um, is Luke around?
00:48:22Um, no.
00:48:22You just missed him.
00:48:23He's meeting with the contractor regarding renovations.
00:48:25Should be back in, like, an hour.
00:48:29You don't want to pass that along?
00:48:30Sure.
00:48:31Hey, Jim.
00:48:32Um, how do you feel about all this?
00:48:35I mean, you do run the sports teams here.
00:48:38Look, Victoria, I'm sure the new center will be fantastic,
00:48:41but Luke has some pretty impressive upgrades planned.
00:48:44Hmm.
00:48:44But does he have corporate sponsorships for the teams?
00:48:46You see, with all of our community center acquisitions,
00:48:49we offer big sponsors to donate funding to the local teams
00:48:52in exchange for advertising.
00:48:55That would help a lot.
00:48:57Oh, maybe just think about it.
00:48:59And then you'll talk to Luke?
00:49:02Yeah, I'll discuss it with him.
00:49:03But, I mean, ultimately, I support whatever he decides.
00:49:06Oh, that's all that I ask.
00:49:10Hey, let's go!
00:49:12Thanks, guys.
00:49:16Looks like we're still missing the return air vent in the kitchen.
00:49:18Could you go check that out for me?
00:49:23Victoria dropped this off for you.
00:49:28Thanks.
00:49:32Oh, man.
00:49:33Am I making the right choice keeping this place?
00:49:37You want my honest opinion?
00:49:39Yeah.
00:49:41She did mention some pretty impressive sponsorship opportunities for the sports teams.
00:49:45Oh, she talked to you and the team?
00:49:46Just me, and I told her that I'm in support of whatever you decide.
00:49:51I appreciate that.
00:49:53Mm-hmm.
00:49:54But you, uh...
00:49:57You think the new building's a good idea?
00:50:00I think you should do whatever makes the most sense.
00:50:03Emotions and attachments to this place aside.
00:50:09Well, financially the numbers just aren't adding up.
00:50:13But if I sell, what about the crew?
00:50:15I mean, our guys are counting on this project to get them work through Christmas and into the new year.
00:50:20Just a lot of things to consider.
00:50:24You figure it out.
00:50:25You always do.
00:50:46Hi, boss.
00:50:47Hey, I just received your email.
00:50:49What's this about the local construction crew?
00:50:51It's one of the reasons the owner is holding out.
00:50:54Um, I think he feels a certain obligation to the crew he hired here in Brook Hollow to do the
00:50:59renovations.
00:51:00So you would like to hire them for the rebuild? Are they qualified?
00:51:03Oh, very much so.
00:51:04I'll send you the company profile to review.
00:51:06But I think if we can guarantee the crew will keep the work in the new year, I'll be able
00:51:10to get Luke-
00:51:12The owner to sign.
00:51:15I-I don't know. This is taking-
00:51:17Sir, this design is my father's.
00:51:19I wouldn't insist on hiring this crew if I didn't believe that they could do it.
00:51:23Okay.
00:51:25Thank you, sir.
00:51:46You sure about this?
00:51:50Yeah.
00:51:52Yeah, I am.
00:51:54The proposed design, well, Mr. Mason's design, it's truly great.
00:52:00The crew's guaranteed the work, and if I'm being quite honest, I think I've taken on a little too much
00:52:04with this one, given my commitments in the new year.
00:52:08Yeah.
00:52:09Well, have you told Victoria yet?
00:52:15No.
00:52:17Why not?
00:52:21Well...
00:52:22We've been having a great time together.
00:52:25But you need to tell her.
00:52:26I will, okay?
00:52:28I will. I just...
00:52:33I don't know.
00:52:35Are you hoping to win her back?
00:52:41I'm hoping that if she can see how great life can be here, that she'll want to come back and
00:52:46visit more often.
00:52:48Her mom misses her so much.
00:52:50I mean you miss her.
00:52:53I get it. I do.
00:52:56But if you keep her here on false pretenses, this could backfire.
00:53:12Whipped cream?
00:53:13Yes. No.
00:53:15Actually, yes.
00:53:19Enjoy.
00:53:19Hi.
00:53:20Hi, Miss Kingston.
00:53:22Hi.
00:53:22How's it going?
00:53:24It's going well.
00:53:25A few indecisive customers, but otherwise no problem.
00:53:27You know, I was nervous at first when you got here.
00:53:32I thought Luke had quite the challenge on his hands.
00:53:35Luke would do anything for the community.
00:53:37Oh, Luke would do anything for you.
00:53:40Well, grab a hot chocolate. The tree lighting's about to start.
00:53:44Will do.
00:53:48Good job.
00:53:50Catch you later, fellas.
00:53:51Okay.
00:53:51Hey, Jim.
00:53:53Hey, Victoria.
00:53:54Good.
00:53:55Good.
00:53:59Well, you are in for a treat this year because we have a record number of lights.
00:54:04Oh.
00:54:05Guess how many?
00:54:07600.
00:54:10600?
00:54:11Come on.
00:54:12That's way off.
00:54:14No.
00:54:15No, no, no.
00:54:151,349.
00:54:1949?
00:54:20Not an even 1350?
00:54:22One broke.
00:54:24But luckily, it's not one of those strands where when one goes out, they all go out.
00:54:28It'd be truly disastrous.
00:54:33Victoria, I, uh...
00:54:36There's something I've been meaning to tell you.
00:54:39Mm-hmm.
00:54:39Thank you all for coming out to Brook Hollow's 32nd annual Christmas tree lighting at this farm.
00:54:48Huh? Let's hear it.
00:54:52We're going to start from a countdown of five, four, three, two, one.
00:55:09Be careful.
00:55:10We were going to see.
00:55:11We're supposed to be business rivals, remember?
00:55:13We still can be.
00:55:15We can also be personal...
00:55:18friends.
00:55:20Friends?
00:55:22Maybe more.
00:55:35I'll feel free to redline anything you want.
00:55:37This is open to negotiation.
00:55:41Okay.
00:55:56Um...
00:55:57I'm gonna go grab some coffee.
00:55:59You want one?
00:56:00I just...
00:56:01You know, I need caffeine for stuff like this.
00:56:05Sure.
00:56:06Thanks.
00:56:08I'll be right back.
00:56:23Well, that was quick.
00:56:26Bryce, hi!
00:56:28Hey, Victoria.
00:56:29Um, is Luke around?
00:56:31Oh, he just ran out for coffee.
00:56:33You know, I'm surprised you're still here.
00:56:35Do you plan on spending Christmas with your mom or something?
00:56:38Still working on getting your cousin to agree to sell me this building.
00:56:42So close.
00:56:43But Luke is willing to sell.
00:56:46Since when?
00:56:47Since he sent me the buyout terms to look over a few days ago.
00:56:52What?
00:56:53Oh, I mean, um...
00:56:55I think he was considering it.
00:56:57This is something different.
00:56:59Uh, I don't...
00:56:59I think he was considering...
00:57:00Maybe, um...
00:57:03I shouldn't have said anything.
00:57:04I really don't know for sure.
00:57:06I cannot believe him.
00:57:08I don't know why he even brought the...
00:57:09Um, I'm sure he had a good reason for not telling me.
00:57:11Oh, yeah, I'm sure he did.
00:57:21You know, those look good.
00:57:22Um, and I need an afternoon pick-me-up anyway.
00:57:25I'll just see you guys later.
00:57:30Hmm.
00:57:34So when exactly did you decide you'd sell the building?
00:57:44A few days ago?
00:57:45And you didn't think to tell me.
00:57:48I was just...
00:57:49Prolonging my stay here in Brook Hollow?
00:57:53Yes.
00:57:54Okay, yes.
00:57:56I...
00:57:57I was enjoying spending time with you,
00:57:59and I thought that maybe if you just stayed a little longer...
00:58:01If you stay a little longer, what?
00:58:02I'd want to, like, move back home to Brook Hollow?
00:58:05Maybe.
00:58:08Maybe at the very least that you would consider giving us another chance.
00:58:15That's...
00:58:16That's what all this has been about.
00:58:18Uh...
00:58:19The...
00:58:20The Kingston house and then the Christmas festivities.
00:58:23I wanted you to be reminded of what is special about Brook Holloway.
00:58:26I mean, you said it yourself the other night that you're happy to be home.
00:58:29No, I said I was happy despite being under duress.
00:58:32It's...
00:58:33It's not exactly the same thing.
00:58:36Luke, I...
00:58:37I have a life in the city.
00:58:39And...
00:58:40And you've made it no secret that you love your life here.
00:58:44Right.
00:58:47Right, we're still worlds apart.
00:58:54What if we weren't?
00:58:58What do you mean?
00:59:02What if I...
00:59:05Moved to New York?
00:59:09You can't even say those words without cringing.
00:59:11No.
00:59:11You...
00:59:12You'd hate the city.
00:59:13And...
00:59:14Your...
00:59:14Your family is important to you here.
00:59:17You're the one that's important to me, Victoria.
00:59:19You.
00:59:20You always have been.
00:59:26Luke, um...
00:59:29Our relationship...
00:59:30Wasn't enough years ago.
00:59:34And...
00:59:35I'm not sure it is now.
00:59:39I...
00:59:39I mean, I know it's only been a few days.
00:59:41What are you saying?
00:59:43Let's just call this what it was, you know?
00:59:45It's...
00:59:45Just two old friends.
00:59:47Reconnecting over the Christmas holiday.
00:59:50That's all this was for you?
00:59:56After you sign those sale papers, um...
01:00:00I'll be leaving Brook Hollow.
01:00:05Sorry.
01:00:30You okay?
01:00:31I just found out that Luke has been planning on selling the community center, and didn't tell me.
01:00:38You knew?
01:00:40I may have heard from Francine at the cafe, who...
01:00:43Heard from Jim's wife Barb.
01:00:45Why didn't you tell me?
01:00:47Because...
01:00:48You were having a great time celebrating the season, and being with Luke.
01:00:52And, well...
01:00:54Selfishly...
01:00:55I was enjoying having you home.
01:00:58Well, maybe I should start paying more attention to the gossip chain.
01:01:02I guess you'll be heading back then.
01:01:04I have to.
01:01:06I have a really important Christmas Eve event at the firm.
01:01:08Lots of important clients.
01:01:10Oh, I understand, darling.
01:01:12I'm grateful for this time we had together.
01:01:16Can I at least help you?
01:01:17Yes.
01:01:17Yes.
01:01:41The love of your life offers to move to the city to be with you, and you say no?
01:01:47Well, when you put it that way, it sounds completely ridiculous.
01:01:50But believe me, Luke would be miserable in New York.
01:01:54So, you're leaving?
01:01:56Just like that?
01:01:58What else am I supposed to do?
01:02:00Tell him you love him, and spend Christmas under the mistletoe?
01:02:04No.
01:02:05I...
01:02:06Look.
01:02:07You know that I love you.
01:02:08So, I want you to take what I'm about to say in the context of, I only want what's best
01:02:14for you.
01:02:15Okay.
01:02:16I'm proud of you, and the success that you've made for yourself.
01:02:22But I feel like, um, something's missing.
01:02:27And more importantly, I feel like you feel that way.
01:02:32I-I'm happy with my life.
01:02:36I think you were content with your life before coming home.
01:02:42Seeing Luke and your mom, yours truly, but not anymore.
01:02:50I think being here has made you see that maybe you want more.
01:03:14Hi. Come in.
01:03:16Thanks.
01:03:23You heading out?
01:03:25Yeah.
01:03:26Driving back to the city tonight.
01:03:41It's what you wanted for Christmas, wasn't it?
01:03:48Yes, it is.
01:03:52Victoria.
01:03:59Drive safe.
01:04:05Merry Christmas.
01:04:16Merry Christmas, Luke.
01:04:22Merry Christmas.
01:05:03Luke, when it comes to business, you are the smartest, most successful person I know.
01:05:12But?
01:05:15What are you doing?
01:05:18I thought you wanted me to sell the building.
01:05:21I did.
01:05:22But you were supposed to sell the building and keep the girl.
01:05:26It doesn't exactly work that way.
01:05:33If I could stop Victoria from leaving all those years ago, I wasn't going to try to stop her now.
01:05:40I even offered to move to the city and she still said no.
01:05:44You what?
01:05:46Most of my work is there these days anyway.
01:05:48I'm commuting all the time.
01:05:50But you hate the city.
01:05:51Yeah.
01:05:53I should tell you something, right?
01:05:58It doesn't matter.
01:06:02Victoria doesn't feel the same way anymore.
01:06:05I'm sorry, buddy.
01:06:11I'm sorry.
01:06:12I'm sorry.
01:06:12I'm sorry.
01:06:13I'm sorry.
01:06:13I'm sorry.
01:06:15I'm sorry.
01:06:23There you are.
01:06:24What are you doing in here?
01:06:26You're missing the party.
01:06:28I'll be there in a minute.
01:06:29I'm just finalizing things for the buyout.
01:06:33You okay?
01:06:35Yeah, yeah.
01:06:36I'm great.
01:06:41Look.
01:06:43That town is going to have the best community center ever.
01:06:46Your father's design is something I wish I could use everywhere.
01:06:50So, don't second guess yourself.
01:06:52Oh, no.
01:06:53It's not that.
01:06:53It's just...
01:06:54I don't know.
01:06:55It was just nice to be home for a little while.
01:06:58You know?
01:06:58Christmas nostalgia getting to me.
01:07:00That's all.
01:07:02You know that most of our reps work remotely, right?
01:07:06Oh, no.
01:07:07I wasn't saying that.
01:07:08I know.
01:07:09I know.
01:07:09I'm just saying that you have a choice.
01:07:11You're traveling 80% of the time.
01:07:12You could be anywhere.
01:07:13Maybe even Brokalo.
01:07:17I appreciate that.
01:07:19Okay.
01:07:20Now, get out here and join us for some good old-fashioned eggnog.
01:07:24Will do.
01:07:32I raise the spirit of Christmas.
01:07:36Hey, Eric?
01:07:38I'm going to have to take a rain check on the eggnog.
01:07:40I'm going home for Christmas.
01:08:03Hi.
01:08:05Hey, Victoria.
01:08:07Luke, I love you.
01:08:17Did you hear what I said?
01:08:21Yeah.
01:08:23I heard you.
01:08:25Is that it?
01:08:27That's kind of huge.
01:08:30Is it?
01:08:35I've loved you since the second grade.
01:08:38And look at where it's gotten us.
01:08:40I wasn't the one who left Brokalo all those years ago.
01:08:44I've always loved you enough to put us first.
01:08:48But you chose your career twice.
01:08:52Your heart is in New York.
01:08:54No.
01:08:54No, it's not.
01:08:55Not anymore.
01:08:57I'm home to stay.
01:09:01I mean, I'm going to travel and commute,
01:09:03but I want to make Brokalo my home again.
01:09:07With you.
01:09:09It's a self-preservation thing, okay?
01:09:14So what?
01:09:15We're supposed to just go on living together in this small town?
01:09:19Doing what?
01:09:20Pretending that we don't still love each other?
01:09:23Letting pride and our past stand in the way of actually being together?
01:09:29It's not.
01:09:32It's not pride.
01:09:35Or a past that is keeping me from taking you in my arms right now.
01:09:41It's common sense.
01:09:44Look, we push and we pull, and then we expect the other person just to give in.
01:09:49I mean, how is that supposed to work?
01:09:50Well, you said it yourself.
01:09:52The Kingstons made it work.
01:09:54The Kingstons are braver than me, I think.
01:09:57Because if there's a chance that we try this again,
01:09:59and then it doesn't work out, I...
01:10:02I don't know.
01:10:03But, I mean, so you're just going to...
01:10:05walk away from what could be the most fantastic future
01:10:09either of us have ever hoped for?
01:10:21I'm sorry, Victoria.
01:10:23I...
01:10:25I just...
01:10:28I can't do this with you anymore.
01:10:50Oh, thank you for finding this.
01:10:54No problem.
01:10:56And you can store your stuff here as long as you need, okay?
01:10:58Oh, dear dear.
01:11:01Is Brent, sorry, Mayor Kingston,
01:11:04going to be coming by the Senior Center tonight?
01:11:06Oh, no.
01:11:07No, not tonight.
01:11:08He's going to pick me up for dinner tomorrow.
01:11:10Tonight is the Christmas social at the Senior's Complex.
01:11:14It's probably going to be the most exciting party in town
01:11:16now that the annual Christmas party
01:11:19at the Community Center is canceled.
01:11:21You're going to spend the evening with Victoria, I assume?
01:11:28No, I don't think so.
01:11:30Why not?
01:11:34We're not exactly back together.
01:11:39I know she's back in Brookhollow, but nothing's changed.
01:11:43Yeah, I... I don't understand.
01:11:45We decided that us together doesn't make sense.
01:11:54Well, that doesn't make sense.
01:11:56You two are perfect for each other.
01:11:59You always have been.
01:12:01We have very different ideas of what's important in life.
01:12:04She's Big City Ambition.
01:12:07I'm...
01:12:07I'm small-town reliable.
01:12:10Yep, your differences are what make you both great together.
01:12:14You balance each other in the best of ways.
01:12:20You learn to support and encourage each other's goals
01:12:24instead of impeding them,
01:12:25and you are going to discover
01:12:26that you have a much richer and fulfilling life.
01:12:32I don't know.
01:12:35Neither one of you is willing to work hard
01:12:37to make the relationship work.
01:12:40It's not that simple.
01:12:43We have a history, me and her, and we did try.
01:12:46Yeah, but you were both children then.
01:12:50You're older, wiser now.
01:12:54Or at least you should be.
01:12:56I mean, all my time at that high school,
01:12:58did I teach you children anything at all about life?
01:13:01Yes.
01:13:02You taught us so much.
01:13:05Listen.
01:13:07Why do you think that girl moved back here
01:13:09after all these years of having no interest in Brook Hollow?
01:13:14She achieved her goal of attaining that building.
01:13:17She had her life in the city.
01:13:19She had no reason to come back here.
01:13:23She came back for you.
01:13:27You both are still in love with each other.
01:13:30Anybody can see that,
01:13:31but you're both so stubborn
01:13:32you won't do anything about it.
01:13:33You know, maybe I should be talking to her about this
01:13:36if I can't get through to you.
01:13:40Well,
01:13:43actually, Victoria is...
01:13:45She is willing to try again.
01:13:47Ah.
01:13:49So, it's your fear
01:13:50that's keeping you from what you've always wanted.
01:13:57Look.
01:13:58Look here, Luke.
01:14:00This house.
01:14:01This house.
01:14:02Your new home.
01:14:04Deserves to hear the laughter of children
01:14:07echoing in the halls.
01:14:09To hold the secret passions of a lover's quarrel.
01:14:13To be passed down through generations
01:14:16of strong family ties.
01:14:25I really messed things up, didn't I?
01:14:27Oh, no.
01:14:29How do I win her back, Mrs. Kingston?
01:14:35Think big gesture.
01:14:39Big gesture.
01:14:40Mm-hmm.
01:14:43I got it.
01:14:47Where are you going?
01:14:48Wait, where are you going?
01:14:49Spend Christmas Eve with the love of my life.
01:14:52Huh?
01:14:53Have fun at your Christmas party,
01:14:54and you behave yourself.
01:14:58What's the fun in that?
01:15:11All those are for me?
01:15:13Making up for past Christmases.
01:15:16Oh.
01:15:20I'm so sorry I haven't been home for Christmas
01:15:22since Dad died.
01:15:24I understood, darling.
01:15:26Your father made Christmas so special.
01:15:29He would have been so proud of you.
01:15:31And that community center rebuild
01:15:32will help preserve a piece of him.
01:15:37You take it things didn't go so well with Luke?
01:15:39I, um, may have hurt him one too many times.
01:15:42Oh, you're home now.
01:15:44Yeah, I don't think that matters.
01:15:46It's what he's been waiting for.
01:15:50Luke is still single for no other reason
01:15:52but that he's been waiting for you.
01:15:54He hasn't been serious about anyone since you.
01:15:57And this Christmas is the happiest I've ever seen him.
01:16:00Oh, he loves you.
01:16:02And when he sees that you're here to stay,
01:16:05he'll come around.
01:16:07Just give him time.
01:16:09I hope you're right.
01:16:13Maybe a big gesture couldn't hurt.
01:16:17Like what?
01:16:19Well, we were all disappointed
01:16:21that the community center Christmas party got canceled.
01:16:25Do you think we still have time to set it up?
01:16:28Darling, I was the best event planner in New York.
01:16:30I think I could pull this together.
01:16:32Okay.
01:16:33Let's do it.
01:16:48Hey, Jim.
01:16:49Uh, I'm on my way to the Masons.
01:16:50Can I call you back tomorrow?
01:16:52Sorry, buddy,
01:16:53but I left a gift at the community center
01:16:54when we were packing up.
01:16:55I was hoping you could meet me there and let me in.
01:16:58Yeah, of course.
01:17:00Be there in five.
01:17:00I'm on my way to the Masons.
01:17:40I take it Jim's not actually meeting me here.
01:17:44I'm sure he's coming to the party later.
01:17:47The party?
01:17:49Decided to host it one last time.
01:17:55I can't believe you did all this.
01:17:56How did you have time?
01:17:58I had some help.
01:17:59Some help?
01:18:00A lot of help, actually.
01:18:05You are so beautiful.
01:18:12And for the record,
01:18:15I love you too.
01:18:19Well, what about everything you said?
01:18:23I was scared.
01:18:26Aren't you still scared?
01:18:29Maybe a little.
01:18:34But I'd rather be scared of losing you while holding you in my arms every Christmas
01:18:39than missing you and longing for you every season.
01:18:44I've already lived like that.
01:18:45I've already lived like that, and I choose us this time.
01:18:53I've always loved you, Luke.
01:18:56Thank you so much for showing me that everything I've always wanted was right here with you.
01:19:07Well, you said the center was the last time we were in love, so I decided to embrace the spirit
01:19:17of Christmas.
01:19:20So did I.
01:19:21So did I.
01:19:26My old engagement ring.
01:19:28You kept it all this time.
01:19:31I was holding on to hope one day you'd wear it again.
01:19:47Victoria Mason,
01:19:49will you marry me for real this time?
01:19:55Yes, for real this time.
01:20:05I love you.
01:20:07I love you.
01:20:11And as excited as I am about this Christmas party, it's going to be amazing.
01:20:15I'm looking forward to next Christmas that we get to spend together at home.
01:20:23Home?
01:20:24Yeah.
01:20:25The Kingston home.
01:20:27I bought it for you, for us.
01:20:33You never gave up hope.
01:20:35No.
01:20:37That's the thing about Christmas.
01:20:38It's about, it's about love, forgiveness, and hope.
01:20:44And that's what the center always meant for me.
01:20:47That's why I was holding on to it so tightly.
01:20:49But now I realize it's about the feeling and the people that make it special, not the concrete and the
01:20:57wood.
01:21:01Well,
01:21:03I did buy some new mistletoe, you know, just in case.
01:21:08Huh.
01:21:10Who needs mistletoe?
01:21:18Merry Christmas,
01:21:19Liv.
01:21:20Merry Christmas, Victoria.
01:21:36Merry Christmas,
01:21:36Merry Christmas,
01:21:36Merry Christmas,
01:21:36Merry Christmas,
01:21:37Merry Christmas,
01:21:37Merry Christmas,
01:21:38Merry Christmas,
01:21:39Merry Christmas,
01:21:39Merry Christmas,
01:21:39Merry Christmas,
01:21:40Merry Christmas,
01:21:41Merry Christmas,
01:21:41Merry Christmas,
01:21:42Merry Christmas,
01:21:42Merry Christmas,
01:21:43Merry Christmas,
01:22:10Transcription by CastingWords
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