A December Bride (2016) - full transcript

Christmas is a time of
joy and celebration

for everyone... but me.

This Christmas isn't exactly
how I expected it would be.

This Christmas isn't exactly
how I expected it would be.

It all started last summer,

when my cousin met my fiancé.

I couldn't agree more.

Excuse me for a second. Thanks.

Layla?

Seth, hi!

Hi!



How are you?

Better now that you're here.

These investment crowds

can be a little dull sometimes.

Yeah.

Where's Jack?

He's off networking.

He's hoping to
land a new client.

Ah.

We're engaged.

I heard. Congratulations.

Thank you.

Have you set the date yet?

Well, I've always wanted to
have a December wedding,



but Jack thinks
it's a little soon.

I think it would just make it

that much more special, though.

Jessica?

Layla.

Oh, my gosh...

what are you doing here?

I finally opened
my own boutique,

and one of my
customers invited me.

Apparently, this is
a huge money crowd,

and I need financial backing.

You should meet Jack.

He's a financial advisor

in small business.

Maybe he could be a
big help to you.

Did I hear my name?

Jack...

Hi. Meet Jessica.

She's in need of some
financial advice,

and your expertise would
be a perfect fit for her.

Well, let me give you my card.

I would be more
than happy to help.

Thanks.

That's great.

This was the exciting news

I wanted to tell you.

I'm engaged.

We're engaged.

This is my fiancé, Jack.

Oh.

Wow.

Congratulations.

Thank you.

Oh, I'm sorry.

So, um, I guess I should
introduce you guys.

This is my cousin...

Really?

Jessica.

I thought I'd met
all your family.

Oh, well, I've been
living in New York

for a few years,

and then a short stint
in Paris after that.

Just moved back a
couple of weeks ago.

I just opened my own boutique.

Paris? That's my favorite
city in the world.

Mine too.

Why don't you two have a drink,

let Jack give you
some free advice?

He really knows his stuff.

Sounds like a plan.

Okay.

I'll be right back.

You couldn't be in better hands.

What did you just do?

Aunt Lorraine, you know how
much I love Christmas,

and how I wanted to
be a December bride

ever since I was...

I know, hon'.

I just never imagined
that I'd be going

to my cousin and
ex-fiancé's wedding.

What little girl
dreams about that?

I don't even know
why I was invited.

I understand.

Well, then you understand

why I can't go.

Sweetheart,

all we have in life is family.

Look,

it's you I'm thinking about.

If you go to that wedding,

it'll give you a
chance to move on.

You've always been
like a mom to me.

I'm so grateful for you.

I love you so much,

and I don't want this
to come between us.

I love you too.

And it won't, I promise.

That's all I'm asking.

Well, and...

come to your cousin's wedding.

I'll think about going
to the wedding.

I'm here for you.

Oh, hey, Cooper!

I am so glad to see you.

I have a really big
favor to ask you.

Okay.

My ex-fiancé is
marrying my cousin,

and because I'm family,

I am expected to
go to the wedding.

Ouch.

Will you go with me?

I have sworn off love, and
I'm not dating anybody,

and I just can't bear the
idea of going alone.

When is it?

Saturday?

You got yourself a date.

Thank you!

Oh, you are the best.

You just saved my life.

And my pride,

or whatever's left of it.

Sorry I'm late.

Some personal stuff
I've been dealing with.

Leave your problems at the door.

No client wants to
hear your tale of woe.

And your boss is so overworked,

I cannot find the words.

Right, sorry.

Got it.

Did you invoice for
the Montgomery job?

Yes,

and I'm waiting for
them to return my call.

And did you send back
those mismatched sconces?

The return receipt
is on my desk.

Good.

I'm doing the Fletcher house
for the Holiday Tour of Homes,

so start cataloguing Christmas
issues of magazines,

and avoid the traditional
red and green.

I want crisp, clean,

silver and gold.

Well, isn't traditional
the point?

Things that remind people of
happy Christmas memories?

Well, not if you want
to make a statement.

You disagree?

I mean...

it's your name on the door,

what do I know?

An interior decorator
needs a unique style.

My work always says
"Darcy Sterling."

You have a good eye,

it's just not enough.

Thank you.

No...

I don't get it, sis.

I thought this is
what you wanted.

No, I don't want to
be Darcy's assistant

for the rest of my life.

What I want

is to start a
business of my own.

So, what's stopping you?

I mean,

isn't it time for you to
start living your own dreams

for once?

Believe me, Beckett,

it would be way easier

to walk into Stanley
Malcolm's office

and demand that he hire me

than to attend Jack and
Jessica's wedding.

Just do it.

Walk right up to
him and say, "Hi,

I'm a great designer."

Show him your book.

Don't you think
that's a little bold?

Yeah, it is bold,

but you're bold, so... be bold.

I don't know,

I can't even think about work.

All I can think about
is their wedding.

Yeah.

Speaking of that,

are you sure you don't want
this guy as your date?

Thank you for the offer,

but there's nothing
more embarrassing

than going to your
ex-fiancé's wedding

than going with your brother.

Besides, I have a date.

Who?

Cooper. My neighbor.

Cooper.

Yeah.

Nice. Good choice.

Well, now that your
date crisis is settled,

I guess you can focus on
finding a new job, huh?

Okay, so keep the grays,

and then punctuate it
with subtle blues.

I want lots of textured
leather and chrome.

Substantial but not dated.

What about the windows?

You can't just
summon inspiration.

I have to get to my lunch,

so I need you to measure

all of the offices individually,

and then pick up the lamp

for the Fletcher
house that I'm doing

for the Holiday Tour of Homes.

- Oh!
- I'm sorry!

Layla!

What a nice surprise
running into you.

Literally.

I didn't realize
you worked here.

Uh, yeah.

I don't need your help.

You've done quite
enough already.

Um, hey, I'm sorry to hear
about Jack and Jessica.

Not as sorry as I am.

When I put them together,

I had no idea where
it would lead.

Obviously.

Do you know where Mr.
Hardwick's office is?

Yeah.

Just down the hall.

Thanks.

Layla, uh, listen,

since we're both going
to the wedding,

maybe...

I don't know, maybe you
and I could go together.

You can't be serious.

I will take that as a no.

Well, I already have a date.

You have a boyfriend.

Why,

you want to introduce
him to another girl?

Look, uh...

I don't want things to
be awkward between us.

We're way past awkward.

But why don't we just

go our separate ways

and leave it at that?

I got that for you.

Okay?

Yeah.

But since he's owned it,

he hasn't really done
anything to it, right?

So I think he should really...

No, I think he should really
do something with the house.

It's his house...

Seth, Seth!

You know my wife.

Of course.

Very nice to see you again, Mrs.
Hardwick.

Seth...

She'd like to have
a word with you.

Are you familiar with

the Holiday Tour of
Homes charity event?

Uh, yes, of course,

but I've never actually
taken the Tour.

Well, visitors get to see

all the holiday decorations

in some of our community's
loveliest homes,

and the donations go to our
school education fund.

I'm chairing the
committee this year,

and we'd like you
to participate.

I wish that I could.

Unfortunately, your
husband keeps me so busy,

I just wouldn't have
time to decorate.

You can hire someone.

You may as well say yes.

Joyce always gets her way.

Then consider me signed up.

Great.

"Happy wife, happy life."

- Oh, stop.
- Yes, sir.

Okay, the Tour is
in three weeks.

There are no
particular guidelines,

just make sure the house looks...
Christmassy.

You know?

Christmassy.

Hello?

I'm so sorry, Layla.

They sent me home from work.

Cooper, are you okay?

You sound awful.

I am sick as a dog.

Oh, no, I'm so sorry.

Wait, does this mean...

you're not going to be able
to make it to the wedding?

Isn't there someone
else you could take?

No, I mean, you
were my last hope

of going with a date
other than my brother.

Now I'm going to have
nobody to hide behind.

I'm really sorry, Layla,

I am.

No, don't be.

I will figure something out.

Feel better and get some rest.

Bye.

Oh, hey.

I don't mean to interrupt.
I can come back.

I just have to take
some measurements

of your office.

Uh, go ahead.

No artwork, no
personal touches...

No distractions.

You look upset.

I mean, more upset than before.

What's the matter?

I no longer have a date.

What happened to your boyfriend?

He's not my boyfriend,
he's my neighbor,

and he has the flu.

Neighbor.

Yeah, my neighbor.

Well...

there's always me.

Are you saying your
offer still stands?

Yeah, my offer still stands.

Why?

Are you reconsidering?

Maybe.

Maybe?

I'll text you my address.

Layla...

So it's a date.

No, it's not a date.

I mean, you're my date,
but it's not a date.

It's not a date.

Okay, I can't decide
what to wear.

Which one doesn't scream
"Poor unfortunate Layla"?

Mmm...

That one screams, "What
was Jack thinking?"

Perfect, we love that.

Now, last time I'm
gonna ask, I promise,

but are you sure you don't
want me to take you?

I know I'm not Cooper,

I know it's not the same as
having a "date" date, but...

I actually do have a date.

I'm going with Seth.

Seth Murphy?

The guy who introduced
Jack and Jessica?

Look, I really don't have time

to go over details.

I'm really late.

I'll see you soon.

Okay.

Layla O'Reilly,

you never cease to surprise me.

And I do mean surprise.

Layla...

You okay?

Mm-hm.

You look stunning.

I just want to get
this over with.

You don't have to flatter me.

Well, for the record,

I never thought Jack was
good enough for you.

Stop trying to make
me feel better.

One thing...

I don't like your shoes.

At all.

What? What's wrong with my...

Stop.

We're going to be late.

I, Jessica, take you, Jack,

to be my husband,

to have and to hold,

from this day forward,

for as long as we
both shall live.

I, Jack, take thee, Jessica,

to be my wife.

To have and to hold,

from this day forward,

for as long as we
both shall live.

If anybody can show just cause

why these two cannot
be joined together,

speak now,

or forever hold your peace.

I pronounce you

husband and wife.

You may kiss the bride.

I am very proud of you.

Thank you.

Is this your date?

Uh, yes.

He is, yeah.

Well done.

Thank you for coming.

You okay?

I'd be better if you'd
stop asking me that.

Hey.

Thank you.

It was a lovely ceremony.

Thank you.

Congratulations.

Thanks, buddy.

Are you guys together?

Mm-hm.

Yes!

As a matter of fact, we are.

Uh...

we will see you
at the reception.

Congratulations again.

Thank you.

What's up? You don't
like the chicken?

I-I...

I'm just not that hungry.

I think I need to
go get some air.

No, come on, dance
with your dad.

Come on.

You know, I think I
do need some air.

Okay, honey.

Club soda, please.

Mr. Malcolm?

Layla O'Reilly.

Are you a buyer or a seller?

I actually stage homes,

and I was hoping that you would
take a look at my portfolio.

I work with some very
experienced decorators.

Well, maybe one of your
smaller properties.

I don't have any
small properties.

There you are.

Seth.

Stanley!

What a pleasant surprise.

Are you friends with the
bride or the groom?

The groom. And you?

Well, I play golf with
the groom's father.

Well...

You know Mr. Malcolm?

"Stanley," please.

I sold Seth his house,

and he was kind enough

to send some of his
clients my way.

That's right.

Well, I was just telling Stanley

that I stage homes.

That's right.

From artwork to furniture,

to anything a house needs
to really make the sale.

Oh, yes.

And let me tell you,
she's very talented.

One of the best
stagers I've seen.

Really impeccable
taste, flawless.

Wow, that is quite
an endorsement.

Now, if you'll excuse me,

I promised my wife a dance.

Have fun.

You know, that's not a bad idea.

Do you want to dance?

Come on.

Hey...

Aren't we meant to look
like we're a couple?

Pretend I said something
really funny.

I think you can do
better than that.

Don't tell me you're
actually having fun.

Maybe...

Maybe a little bit of fun.

Good.

You know, I'm a terrible dancer.

I don't know if you
knew that about me,

but I'm really bad.

Two left feet.

That's right.

I could've watched you
two dance all night.

Thank you.

It's all about finding
the right partner.

Oh, my sentiments exactly, sir.

Seth!

You two really are a couple?

Yes...

Looks that way.

And we couldn't be happier.

I'm just a little surprised.

You never even mentioned

you guys were dating.

Right, uh, well,

it just happened so fast.

Thing is,

I walked into work one day,

and there she was,

taking measurements
to redo my office,

and, well,

it just felt so right,

and we started hanging out,

and we've been
together ever since.

It sounds... pretty serious.

Oh, it's as serious as it gets.

We are engaged.

Oh, that's wonderful!

That's wonderful news!

How exciting!

Why didn't you say anything?

I'm sorry, we didn't want
to steal your thunder

for your big day.

And it's time to cut the cake.

Oh, that's our cue.

Can I talk to you for a second?

What have you done?

I may have taken things
a little too far.

Yeah, you think?

But...

all those sympathetic looks
you were getting before

have turned into smiles.

Imagine the looks
we're going to get

when they realize we're
not telling the truth.

I think that

you are going to laugh
about this one day.

Not in a million years.

Jessica and I would like to
thank you all for coming

and for sharing our joy.

And we'd like to
extend our best wishes

to Layla and Seth,

who just announced...

their engagement.

Congratulations, you two!

You just made an
embarrassing situation

so much worse.

Oh, what I wouldn't give

to be "Poor Layla,"

not "Engaged Layla
Who Actually Isn't."

Wait, so, what are you saying,

the wedding is off?

I'm going to need you to
take this seriously, okay?

How do we deal with this?

What do I tell my
dad and my brother,

and my entire family?

I'll tell them I
did it on a dare.

The party was so much
fun, I got wedding fever.

Of course, 'cause you can't
tell them the real reason

is because you
feel sorry for me.

That's not the wording I'd use.

Close enough.

Look...

I'm sorry, Layla,

I really am.

I'll call everyone
first thing tomorrow

and tell them it was a bad joke.

Too much champagne,

and poor judgment on my part.

Hey.

I'll make it right, I promise.

Thank you.

Okay.

Hi, darling, it's Aunt Lorraine.

I hope your happy news

means that you and Jessica
can bury the hatchet.

Hi, it's your brother.

You've taken keeping secrets
to a whole new level.

Call me.

Layla, this is Stanley Malcolm.

I was hoping we
could have lunch.

We can discuss your
staging some houses.

Bring your portfolio,

and bring your fiancé.

This is Seth Murphy of
Denning and Hardwick.

Sorry I missed your call.
Please leave a message.

Hey, Seth, it's me.

Don't tell anyone
we're not engaged...

just yet.

Call me.

I could barely sleep last night.

This isn't grand larceny.

It's just...

it's lunch and a white lie.

Working for Malcolm Realty

could launch my entire business.

Then let's go to the lunch.

I got you into this mess.

This can be my way
of redeeming myself.

So we'd only be engaged
for a couple more days.

A couple of days.

Until I got the job.

Right.

But I'm going to need
something from you.

Besides redemption?

Consider this a win-win.

I need you to decorate my house

for the Holiday Tour of Homes.

You don't even know
if I'm any good.

No, but I know you,

I know how hard
you're going to try.

Besides,

this could be great exposure.

It might even drum up
some more business

other than Malcolm Realty.

You've just got to
make it really...

"Christmassy".

Okay.

Okay?

You've got a deal.

Deal.

Now, Seth is a
shrewd negotiator.

He got his house at
a remarkable price.

It's lovely, isn't it?

Oh, yeah, it's... it's gorgeous.

Beautiful home.

And Layla is an amazing stager.

Can we show him, honey?

Mm-hm.

Very nice.

You really are very good.

Thanks.

Honey.

Layla is doing my house

for the Holiday Tour of Homes.

Oh.

Well, I'm glad
you're doing that.

That house deserves to be seen,

and you know how
Joyce Hardwick feels

about the tour,

and her charity.

I do.

Can I get the bill, please?

I could do one of your
current properties

on spec.

I would love the opportunity
to work with you.

You know, I think I'd rather see

what you do with Seth's house.

But that's three weeks away.

Houses like Seth's

are the pillars of my business,

and I know he has done
absolutely nothing with it.

If you could transform
that house,

you just might get my attention.

I love a challenge.

Good. Sorry I have to run.

I have a showing this afternoon.

One of your clients.

Thank you, Stanley.

Good luck.

Now what do we do?

We stay engaged
another three weeks.

You get a job...

Maybe I get a job.

And I get my house done,

and get to impress
my boss's wife.

What do we tell our
family and friends?

See, that part could be tricky,

but I think we can pull it off.

Plus...

your Aunt Lorraine loves me.

Wow, your yard is so...

empty.

We're going to need
something really special.

Like what?

I don't know.

Wait, no, no, no, wait, wait.

Can we go inside right now?

Well, what's the rush?

My boss is next door
decorating the house.

Is that a problem?

It is if I want to keep my job.

Wow, what a beautiful house,

but it seems so unfinished.

Well, I bought it as an
investment property.

It's already gone up in value.

This is your home.

Yeah, but I'm never here.
I'm working all the time.

So you can afford
a beautiful house

that you can never enjoy.

Show me more.

Okay.

Uh, the only thing I use in here

is the coffeemaker.

The kitchen is supposed to
be the heart of the home.

So do a little CPR.

Oh, sorry.

Yeah, I gotta get back to work.

But you...

you are going to need a key.

And...

Thank you.

A credit card.

Do whatever you want,

warmth as far as
the eye can see.

And very, very...

Christmassy.

You love that word.

What exactly does that mean?

It means my boss's wife
will be impressed.

Gotta go.

See you.

Bye.

I am going to bring you to life.

Thanks, everyone!

See you in a couple of hours.

Hello?

Oh, hello, darling,

it's your beleaguered
Aunt Lorraine.

Hey, what's the problem?

Oh, it's the toy drive.

It's simply overwhelming.

I need your help.

Uh, I'm a little
busy at the moment,

but I'll do what I can.

Oh, good.

I knew you wouldn't let me down.

Where are you going?

Uh, my lunch break.

Oh, pick up the silver wreath

for the Fletcher house
on your way back?

And grab me a mocha latte,

sugar-free.

Oh, thank heaven you're here.

There is so much to do.

There certainly is.

Is it just the two of us?

No, no, there's help on the way.

Hey, sorry I'm late.

Oh...

You girls have so much to do,

and I so appreciate
you being here.

Layla...

when are you going to let
me take you shopping

for a wedding dress?

Soon.

I promise.

I've just... I've been so busy
with work and the tour...

Yeah.

Well, we've got a lot to do.

Christmas is right
around the corner.

Let's get busy.

So,

you two are family,

and that's forever.

You've got to learn
to get along.

You make meddling an art form.

Well, at least that's
one thing we agree on.

Well, the galling thing is,

I'm usually right.

This is not the way
these things are done.

Love doesn't operate
according to schedule.

Which is where good
judgment comes in.

When do we get to meet her?

I'm going to have to call Layla.

She's very busy.

Well, what does she do?

She's an interior decorator.

Actually, she's doing my house
for the Holiday Tour of Homes.

What do you know
about this girl?

All I need to.

Well said.

On that note,

I'm going to go.

I've got an early meeting.

Bye, Mom.

Bye bye.

You let me know

when you and Layla are
available for dinner.

Okay.

Well, that looks

suspiciously traditional to me.

I'm making a Christmas quilt.

To use in the house you're doing

for the Tour of Homes?

Don't bother denying it.

I saw your name on the list.

I was going to tell you.

You know, because I'm
doing the Fletcher house,

this puts us in
direct competition.

No, I don't see it that way.

I mean, there are
a lot of homes,

lovely homes for
people to look at.

People like Stanley Malcolm?

Every decorator in town wants
a job with Malcolm Realty,

including me.

How did you get
the Murphy house?

Seth is an old friend,

and we started dating, and...

now we're sort of engaged.

Oh.

I guess congratulations
are in order.

Thank you.

It pains me to say this, Layla,

but obviously we
can't work together.

Wait, are you firing me?

You've given me no choice.

I need those back.

Well, I love what you've
done with the place.

Well, now I really need
Stanley to give me this job

because Darcy just fired me.

What?

This is my fault.

No, I'm just as much to blame.

On the bright side,

I don't have to
deal with her ego,

or fetch her mocha lattes,

sugar-free.

Well, maybe it's for the best.

I really gotta get back to work.

The Tour is less
than two weeks away,

and as you can see,

I still have a lot to do.

I like what you've done
with the fireplace.

Thanks.

You should use it sometime.

Mm-hm.

What?

You've got some...

you've got some
dirt on your face.

Uh... there.

Oh.

My dad called.

He invited us to dinner tonight.

Okay.

No, actually, it's not okay,

because he thinks we're engaged,

and my brother is
already suspicious.

And what about your mother?

She actually passed away
when I was a little girl.

I'm sorry. I didn't know that.

She always used to make
the holidays so special,

and she would turn
our entire house

into this virtual
winter wonderland.

She'd make her own decorations,

and the whole place
smelled like cinnamon

and hot cider...

What was your favorite
part of Christmas?

Everything.

The whole spirit of Christmas.

My mom always said it
was the time of year

that everyone cared
just a little bit more.

What, and you still
feel that way

after all these years?

Of course.

Tell me about your family.

My family...

Well, let's just
say that my dad,

he didn't care too
much for the holidays.

What does he do?

He's a retired
investment banker.

He worked most of his life.

Not a lot of father-and-son time

when I was growing up.

But I looked up to him,

so I followed in his footsteps.

Well, this year, brace yourself

for all the Christmas
you can handle.

The O'Reillys still
go way over the top

when it comes to the holidays.

I think I'd like that.

I'm not much of a cook,

but I enjoy it,

especially this time of year.

Well, everything was
delicious, sir.

So, when did you and Layla meet?

We met three years ago,

doing community theater.

I kept going, hoping
to see more of her.

I remember you singing at
the top of your lungs,

and you were the worst
singer of all time.

He's the only person I know

who can turn "Les
Mis" into a comedy.

Thanks for that.

Then what happened?

I went out of town on business.

By the time I got
back, Layla met Jack,

and I lost my shot.

Well, why didn't you
ever ask me out?

I'd just come out
of a relationship.

I needed a little time.

I assumed you
weren't interested.

No, I was very interested.

I just couldn't undercut Jack.

I was born in a suit and tie.

But you got me to loosen
up and have a little fun,

albeit off-key.

But that was my favorite
summer I can remember.

I wish you would have
told me that back then.

So do I.

Yeah, so do I.

So, you two are about
to get hitched,

and this stuff just
never came up?

Oh... yes.

Of course it did.

We just, um,

we don't like to
dwell on the past.

We like to focus on the future.

The future.

The future.

Speaking of which,
when's the wedding?

Yeah.

Uh... well...

Um, well, we've...

we've, uh...

we've talked about it a lot.

Uh, we were thinking...

June? June, right?

June?

Is that what we said?
June. Mm-hm.

Yeah. June wedding.

So not in December?

December?

No, December's a
little too soon.

Is it?

But Layla always wanted
to be a December bride.

Yeah, I mean...

you knew that.

Yeah, sure he did.

Obviously.

I told him how much
I love Christmas,

and Mom was a December bride,

and with all the love
and joy in the air,

what better time to get married?

December.

Remember?

Uh-huh.

And every year,

how we watched "White
Christmas" on TV,

and with all the singing

and the dancing,

and everyone falls
in love in the end.

I mean, you don't have to tell him.
He knows.

You've seen it.

It's Gene Kelly.

Bing Crosby.

Bing Crosby.

It's no big deal,

it's just your fiancée's

favorite movie of all time,

for her entire life...

Who's ready for dessert?

I am.

Here, let me give you
a hand with that.

Okay.

What's going on?

What?

What do you mean?

Your dentist knows you
better than that guy.

I'm not buying a word of this.

I'm not.

Okay...

so it's a fake engagement.

Promise me...

Hey, look at me...

Promise me you
won't tell anyone.

Tell them what?

That my sister's had a
little too much eggnog

with her fake fiancé,

who also broke up her
real engagement?

Very funny.

He's not so bad.

Yeah, unless you like honesty.

You know what,

people could say the
same thing about me.

Good point.

I don't know, it's...

He's a really nice guy.

I know that look.

What look?

Are you starting to have
feelings for this guy?

What?

No.

Maybe you're not being
honest with yourself.

Maybe.

I tend to do that, a lot.

I mean, with Jack, I knew...

I knew all along.

We were drifting apart,

and I just kept hanging on

to this fantasy of being
a December bride.

And what about Seth?

I don't know how I feel.

I know that I don't
want to get hurt.

That I believe.

Can you pass me the
cookie tin, please?

The Tour is only one week away,

and I haven't even finished
a single room yet.

What do you think?

It's a big change, but
a very merry one.

I'm not sure I'm man
enough for this.

I should be older and wiser.

Are you kidding? It's
perfect for you.

Try it out.

And what exactly

am I supposed to
do in this chair?

You're supposed to
think great thoughts.

Huh.

Well, I'm thinking
great thoughts.

About what?

About my growing affection
for all things Christmas.

It's hard to resist.

Nice wreath.

Nice wreath!

Thanks!

I made it myself.

It looks very authentic.

Yours is... shiny.

Whoa.

Hi.

More donations.

Jessica asked me
to drop them off.

Oh.

But I'm glad I ran into you.

Why?

Because I'd like a...

a chance for us to talk.

Yeah, I don't think I'm
ready for that just yet,

but I'll take the boxes.

Whoop...

I got it.

Oh, you two were so close
when you were little.

That was a lifetime ago.

You shared your dolls, you
shared your clothes...

But not our fiancés.

You were so outgoing
and friendly.

I wanted to be just like you.

Everyone always wanted

to be your friend.

You never told me that.

Sorry.

Well, I couldn't feel any worse,

if that helps.

I had no one to talk to,

not even Aunt Lorraine,

and I wasn't going to
make her pick a side.

Layla...

sometimes your mother and I

wouldn't talk for weeks,

but then, you know,

eventually, we'd just
sort it out in the end.

I love you both.

And we're family.

Families should always
try and work it out.

I want to be family again too.

Oh.

I gotta get going.

Mom, is she ever
going to forgive me?

Well, I think you two
just made a big step.

Yeah?

Yeah.

Wait, wait, let me
try this again.

Okay, you ready?

Yeah, yeah, yeah.

Hi!

Oh, you're home, hey.

Yeah.

I had to work late.

This is my neighbor, Cooper.

I was unable to get
a delivery truck,

and Cooper went

and picked up the chairs for us.

This is Seth.

Oh yeah, your fiancé?

That's me.

Nice to meet you.

Nice to meet you, too.

So, you're the one
that got the flu?

Yup.

Listen, thanks very much
for helping Layla out.

I appreciate it.

No problem.

I gotta get going.

Sure?

Yeah.

I owe you dinner.

No, really, that's okay.

Nice to meet you.

I'm just gonna go walk him out.

Great.

Phew, it's cold out here.

Thank you again for
all your help.

No problem.

I guess you really are engaged.

That guy's in love.

Drive safe.

So, you like the chairs?

Yeah. Yeah, they're great.

Now people have a place to sit

if they have a piece of pie,

or a coffee,

or you can eat your
breakfast here.

So, Cooper seems
like a nice guy.

Aw, he's so sweet.

And he's your neighbor?

Just your neighbor?

Yeah, he's my neighbor,

and my friend.

Why?

No reason.

Tell me.

Look...

I know we're supposed to be
just a fake engaged couple,

but I gotta be
completely honest here,

I just didn't like
it when I walked in,

and I saw you two
together in my kitchen.

Are you jealous?

Maybe I am, a little.

This is too much reality
for a fake engagement.

Fair enough.

Let's keep things light and fun.

Light and fun.

It's getting late, I should...

I should probably go.

Layla...

All I'm really trying to say

is that everywhere I look,

I see Christmas, and I see you,

and I love it.

That's all.

I should go.

You sure it's not too much?

No, I think it looks good.

Whoa!

I'm going to go get
some pinecones

from the box of pinecones.

Okay.

What am I doing?

♪ Deck the halls with
boughs of holly ♪

♪ Fa-la-la-la-la La-la-la-la ♪

Bravo.

It's beautiful.

This is much more fun than work.

Tomorrow, I'm thinking
we should get the tree

before all the good
ones are gone.

Yeah, I just have to stop
and get some ornaments

on the way.

Great.

♪ Deck the halls with
boughs of holly ♪

♪ Fa-la-la-la-la La-la-la-la ♪

Maybe you should
sing at the Tour.

Maybe not.

That is the biggest
tree I've ever seen.

Yup.

You know, the one concession
my father had at Christmastime

was to choose the biggest,
most expensive tree

he could pay someone to get.

I'm glad we did this.

See, we were opposite.

We would get the smallest tree

from the supermarket
parking lot.

We'd keep it alive
until January,

and it became this
member of the family.

That's weird.

Uh, do you need a
hand with that?

Uh, no, I got it.

You sure?

Yeah, I'm sure.

Whoa... Whoa, whoa!

Do you need a hand now?

Uh, if you insist.

Here, give it to me.

Okay.

Okay, one, two...

three!

You got it?

Yeah, yeah.

Oh, slivers...

Now, that is what
I call teamwork.

I'd say this calls for
two cups of hot cocoa.

I think we've earned it.

Why the smile?

Because this is what
Christmas is all about.

Here.

Thank you.

Ooh...

Watch your hands.

It's not about

the finished product,

it's about the process.

The hanging the stockings,
the decorating the tree.

These are the things
we'll remember.

Well, my mother
always hired someone

to decorate the tree.

What's she like?

My mom?

Yeah.

Uh, she's as charming
as my father is proper.

But he would be completely
lost without her.

Cheers.

Cheers.

Did you make those?

My mom did.

Well, they're beautiful.

They are, aren't they?

She would make gingerbread
cookies every year,

and whatever we didn't eat,
we'd hang on the tree.

Those are some of my
favorite memories.

Sometimes I feel
like they're just...

I feel like they're
slipping away.

Do you wanna help me
string some popcorn?

I thought you'd never ask.

It's actually really fun.

Okay.

Okay.

Hold this.

String.

Yeah, string.

So, like...

Seth...

It fell in my mouth.

You're not supposed to
eat the decorations.

Okay.

String it on there, yeah.

Ready?

Yes.

Oh, this is so good,
I can't stop it.

This is my last bag of popcorn.

Okay, you do it like this.

Voila.

Voila.

This is a good memory.

Yeah, it is.

It's really good.

When will your mom be back?

I think she wanted to
give us some time alone.

Okay...

Do you remember
Fashion Model Barbie?

Sort of.

What she lacked in substance,

she made up for in flair.

Kinda like me.

Are you waiting for
me to contradict you?

I'm waiting for you
to forgive me.

I never meant to hurt you.

I fell in love.

I never wanted to lose you.

I miss you.

I miss you too.

I mean, maybe all this

is the way it's meant to be.

We both ended up
with the right guy.

Yeah.

Maybe so.

I know Jack feels terrible

and would love to talk to you.

Let me think about it, okay?

So, where's your
engagement ring?

I'm dying to see it.

It was too... big.

I was hanging a wreath,

and then it just slipped off,

and then so we took
it to the jeweler,

and then when we got it
back from the jeweler,

it was too small,

so now it's getting sized again,

and...

Yeah, we should have
it back in a few days.

How's everything going?

We're making progress.

With you two making up,

now we can spend the
holidays together.

And then there's
Layla's wedding,

whenever that is.

It's too late for a
December wedding,

so don't even go there.

Who said anything about
a December wedding?

No more meddling.

That's what family is for.

I mean it!

Everything looks so
beautiful in here.

It's very Christmassy.

That's good. It should be,

The Tour is only five days away.

So, I'm thinking

I'm going to buy some gifts

to fill the stockings with,

so that they don't
look just like props.

Great.

Great.

You know, Jessica asked about
the engagement ring today.

Oh, yeah?

She's not the first one to ask.

Should I get some costume
jewelry or something?

Uh-oh.

It's Darcy.

She wants me to stop
by the Fletcher house.

She's not even my boss anymore.

I don't know why I'm so nervous.

You'll be fine.

Okay, don't touch anything.

I'll be back soon.

Okay.

What are you doing
with this yard?

I haven't figured it out yet.

Is that why you
wanted to see me?

My silver ornaments
never arrived.

I'm not saying it
was intentional,

although it crossed my mind.

Well, I ordered them
before you fired me.

I suggest you call the vendor.

I ran into Stanley
Malcolm today.

Apparently, he sold
your fiancé his house.

That's right.

How long have you been together?

It's odd that you
never mentioned him.

I'll be right in, honey.

Okay, honey.

Seth and I were just
about to have dinner.

Okay.

I'll see you?

Soon!

Soon...

Put your arm around me.

Let's pretend to
be a real couple.

I can do better than that.

We're practicing
for the big day.

Oh.

You know, Darcy's been
talking to Malcolm.

Oh, then we'd better
put on a good show.

Speaking of which,

check out the stocking
on the right.

Why?

What did you do?

Oh, my gosh.

That was my grandmother's ring.

It's so beautiful.

Here.

It's a perfect fit.

Yeah, it is.

Hi.

Hi.

Thank you for
agreeing to meet me.

I remembered how much you
love the lattes here.

True.

Jack, I'm not...

I don't really know why
you wanted to meet.

Jessica told me

that you two might be
mending things between you,

and, well,

I need to mend
things with you too.

Layla, I really never
meant to hurt you.

Well, then why did you?

You always expected
the best of me.

It was a lot to live up to.

I didn't mean to pressure you.

I know...

I just...

You just what?

We never really took the time
to get to know each other.

And a lot of times,

it felt like we were
just out of sync.

I mean, you were
just so wrapped up

with wanting to be this
December bride that...

That I never really saw you.

Maybe that was on me.

Look, I just know

I want you to forgive me.

I handled everything badly.

We talked about this.

Is... everything okay?

I assume you guys were
just in the neighborhood?

Oh, you know how I
can't stop meddling

when it comes to family.

Layla...

we are both just so happy

for you and Seth.

We'd love to have a dinner,

and maybe we can all start over?

Wow, uh...

I don't know what to say.

Just say yes,

and we'll make the plans.

Yes!

Thank you.

- Yes.
- Okay.

Thank you.

Oh, I am so pleased.

My family is finally
coming together.

And Seth is a wonderful man.

And that couldn't
have been very easy.

No, it wasn't easy.

But you know what,

it was telling.

Because after all the
anger and the resentment,

maybe he just wasn't
the right guy for me.

Oh, honey, I could
have told you that...

the moment you danced with Seth.

I can't believe you did this.

Gingerbread cookies?

I tried.

They smell amazing.

Uh, I'm not great
at the icing part.

Um, here, try.

Mmm.

- Mmm?
- Mmm!

Too much cinnamon?

No, I mean...

Maybe a little.

Not like your mom's.

But just as sweet.

Thank you.

You're welcome.

So...

let me tell you something.

I have decided not
to sell the house.

When did you decide that?

Just now.

You've turned my investment

into something more valuable.

A home.

And I'm home now.

Someone has very bad timing.

Yes, they do.

Hey, Dad.

Hi.

I called your office
this morning,

and they said you'd
gone home for the day.

Yeah, yeah, I'm at
home helping Layla.

We hire people for
that sort of thing.

Yeah, it's fun.

I made gingerbread cookies.

I think it's time

that your mother and
I met your fiancée.

Please make your mother happy

and come for dinner tonight.

Okay.

Great, see you at 7:00.

Is she coming?

Yup.

Oh, good.

What are we having for dinner?

Oh. Oh, boy.

Is everything okay?

Fine.

We're just going to
be having dinner

with my parents tonight.

Bring cookies.

Lots of cookies.

Doing Seth's house for
the Tour of Homes

must be very challenging.

Seth has been a big help.

Just don't ignore

your obligations at work.

Ever the romantic.

You obviously make my son happy.

He can't stop talking about you.

And that's all that matters.

Very happy, Mom.

I hope I'm not

being too forward,

but I have so many ideas

about the wedding.

She never stops
talking about it.

Listen, we... let's...

We haven't even set a date yet.

A mother can dream, can't she?

I have a wedding planner
I'd love you to meet.

Oh, that's very nice of you...

And a wonderful florist.

Oh, I hope you like lilies.

Lilies are nice.

Or roses, whatever you prefer.

Flowers can add so
much to a wedding.

And then so can the music.

Perhaps a string quartet?

I got some samples
from a bakery.

They specialize
in wedding cakes.

They look... lovely.

Let me know what you think.

I'm partial to the red velvet.

Perhaps you'd
prefer gingerbread.

Oh, Layla,

I'm sorry,

am I being too pushy?

Yes.

No.

No...

I'm just... I'm just a
little overwhelmed.

Yeah.

Layla, she's got a
lot on her plate,

so why don't we just...

let's talk about the wedding
after the Tour of Homes.

Of course.

But I can still help
with all the details.

Oh, well, that's very,
very sweet of you,

but totally not necessary.

Oh, don't worry, dear,

all my planning and
bending your ear,

it's just my way of saying...

welcome to our family.

Cheers.

Welcome to the family.

Cheers.

Every compliment,
every piece of cake,

I wanted to slip right
underneath the table.

This thing has gotten
way out of hand.

Yeah, you think?

It's not about getting
a job anymore.

This charade has taken
on a life of its own.

It's too late to take back now.

I mean, how would
we ever explain it?

We'll pretend to break up...

That's Jessica.

Hello?

Hi. Layla.

Hi. How are you?

I'm good.

Hey, um...

how about the four
of us go for dinner

at Bon Ami,

like we talked about?

That's so nice of you.

It's just, I'm so busy
with the Tour of Homes.

I haven't had a
second to breathe.

Oh, well, that's okay.

I mean, we could do
it after the Tour.

Maybe Sunday at 7:00?

Yeah, that sounds good.

Okay, great, see you then.

Bye.

So Jack and Jessica just
invited us to dinner

at Bon Ami.

Another dinner

as a fake couple.

Hmm.

Well, it can't be any
worse than the last ones.

We only have two days left,

and the yard is still so blank.

There's just so
much empty space.

I don't know how to fill it.

Well, maybe...

maybe some Christmas trees,

or a snowman?

No, it needs to be original.

We need to make it stand out

from the other houses.

I got it.

We can use your dad's
plastic Santa.

That's it.

I was joking.

No, not Santa, his sleigh.

That would look so good there.

It's the perfect spot.

Now, how do we find a sleigh

on such short notice?

I will find you a sleigh.

Really? How?

I have no idea.

Oh, my gosh,

Darcy is watching us again.

Let's give her something to see.

I wanted to get that
in before we break up.

Right.

This is what you choose
to do with your time?

And I can't find a sleigh.

I don't understand.

For the front yard.

I promised Layla I'd
find her a sleigh.

I have to question
your priorities.

Just when I got them straight.

You're missing work,

worrying about some
yard ornament.

Look, it can't be all
about making money, Dad,

or some role I'm
expected to play.

I want to...

I want to enjoy my life.

Think about it.

Why didn't we spend
more time together

when I was growing up, hmm?

I once asked my father
the exact same question.

And what did he say?

He mentioned his busy schedule.

All I really remember
was his lack of regret.

I never meant to become
that kind of father, Seth.

Ever.

Never too late to
break the mold.

One more day.

Yeah,

and I still haven't
found you a sleigh.

I've turned Christmas
into a race against time.

How did we get here?

A fake engagement,
lying to our families.

Yeah.

Well, maybe if I had asked
you out before Jack did,

we'd be engaged for real.

Maybe so,

but we'll never know, right?

Right.

There's no happy ending.

We've complicated things.

We just need to break
up like we planned.

If that's what you really want.

It doesn't matter what I want.

At this point,

all that matters is I don't
want to hurt my family.

I have to go meet
my Aunt Lorraine.

Okay.

Oh! You look exquisite.

I'm so glad

you decided to wear
your mother's dress.

I should take it off.

Oh, no, no, wait!

For what?

Oh, I was hoping

that putting on the dress

would be the prompt
that you needed.

What do you mean?

To be a December bride.

I know how much it means to you,

and you're running out of time.

What is it?

Honey, what is it?

I have something I
have to tell you.

Okay.

Seth and I aren't engaged.

Well...

Well, those tears seem real.

How do you feel about him?

After everything that
happened with Jack, it's...

Honey, love requires
a leap of faith,

and in my experience,
it's worth it.

Yeah.

It's going to be fine.

Hi, Seth.

Hey, Dad.

I think you should
call this number.

I don't need another client.

I'm a little busy right now.

He's my former handyman.

Oh.

To help with the house?

No, he's retired.

Then why would I call him?

Because...

he's got a sleigh.

Wait, you found me a sleigh?

Dad, this means everything.

Uh...

Uh, where's my phone?

You did it.

You did this for me?

Actually, I had a
little surprise help,

but, yeah, I did it for you.

M'lady.

Merry Christmas.

Merry Christmas.

The Tour begins in two hours.

- Hey!
- Hi!

Got a call from Seth, said
you could use a little help.

Come on in.

I thought it might feel
more like the holidays

with family around.

Wow, nice house.

Sure hope you guys have us over

for Christmas dinner.

I'll get it!

Hi!

Hi!

We understand you could
use some extra hands.

I'm so glad you're here.

Come on in.

Ooh...

One more hour to go.

I'm sorry, the Tour
hasn't started...

- Hi.
- Hi!

George thought you
could use some help.

- Hi, Mom.
- Sweetie.

- Come on in.
- Okay.

Hey.

Hey, Dad...

Dad? Thanks a lot.

The sleigh looks great.

Okay, who wants to sing
some Christmas carols?

♪ Deck the halls with
boughs of holly ♪

♪ Fa-la-la-la-la La-la-la-la ♪

Like father, like son.

It's time.

Guys...

the Holiday Tour of Homes
has officially begun.

We did it!

Hmm.

Hi. Ho!

Stanley Malcolm,

I... it's... I'm honored.

Ta-da!

The tree is the focal point,

playing off the
contrasting shapes,

like three-dimensional
modern art.

I'm trying to get Christmas

into the 21st Century.

Well, everything
is quite striking.

I should be going.

I have many more houses to see.

Don't worry about it.
It's going to be fine.

Joyce.

Stanley.

Every room

more captivating than the next.

I couldn't agree with you more.

Blue spruce...

Well, Layla,

you've certainly transformed
Seth's investment.

Still true to the
charm of the house,

and now it feels
like a real home.

The sleigh was a nice touch.

Truly inspiring.

You've really done a great job.

I'm very impressed.

Thank you.

Seth, this is the prettiest
house on the Tour.

Oh, thank you, Mrs. Hardwick.

I couldn't agree more.

In fact, I'd like you to
come work your magic for me.

I've got four houses
coming on the market

that need staging.

Seriously?

That's a dream come true.

I hope to keep you very busy.

Can I hug you?

All right.

Thank you so much, Stanley.

Apparently, traditional
is still in.

If you like that sort of thing.

As it happens, I do.

It's the feeling that
a house gives you

that's most important.

Modern isn't your thing?

I'm afraid not.

Congratulations.

You two enjoy your holidays.

Thank you, Stanley.

Merry Christmas.

Merry Christmas.

I got the job.

Congratulations!

We did it!

You did it.

You did it. Thank you.

Mrs. Hardwick was...

so happy.

I mean, her charity
was a huge success.

Everyone seemed to love it.

You know, the longer we wait,
the harder it's going to be.

It's time to break up.

So, what's the plan?

We'll have a fight.

And then a couple days later,

we'll tell everyone the
engagement is off.

Okay.

We could do it at dinner
with Jack and Jessica.

What are we going
to fight about?

We'll have to make something up.

I got it,

you hate my singing.

No way, never.

That's your best feature.

It's got to be
something believable.

How about...

I work too much.

That's not entirely
true anymore.

What workaholic has enough
time to string popcorn?

True.

But...

look, it's a pretty
common problem.

People are gonna buy it.

So I work too much...

And I hardly ever see you.

Then we'll just
improvise the rest.

Done.

Done.

Uh...

excuse me.

Done.

Shh...

Okay.

Okay, we leave after
the fake fight.

It'll be too hard
to stick around.

Okay.

Okay.

Surprise!

Wow...

We are so happy for you.

- Congratulations.
- Thank you.

You are going to make
such a beautiful bride.

Thanks, Dad.

You sure know how to keep
a secret, don't you?

Why didn't you warn me?

Oh, that would have
been too easy.

Here's to happily ever after!

Cheers!

We're so happy for you.

Can I steal her for one moment?

Excuse us.

So what do we do now?

What do we do with
everyone here?

We stick to the plan.

Besides,

everyone's already here.

We won't have to repeat
any performances.

Right.

Right.

So, uh, who's gonna
start the fight?

I will.

Okay.

Hey...

Hey, is everything okay?

Yeah, it's...

It's Seth.

Look, I don't think

we should be really having
this conversation right now.

See, that's the problem.

It's never a good time for you.

No, I mean,

I don't think we should
be doing this at all.

What are you doing?

I don't want to fight with you.

Seth, it's all part of the plan.

Forget the plan.

I'm crazy about you.

Seth, that's definitely
not part of the plan.

I know,

but I love you.

What did you say?

I'm saying that I am in
love with you, Layla.

I think...

I love you too.

You sure?

Yeah, I'm sure.

I love you.

That's good.

Uh-huh.

Okay.

Well, then...

one more thing.

Layla O'Reilly...

will you do me the honor

of being my wife?

Yes.

Of course.

Wait, wait, wait...

am I missing something here?

Everything!

She's going to be a
December bride after all!

I love you.

I, Layla,

take thee, Seth,

to be my husband,

to have and to hold

for as long as we
both shall live.

I, Seth, take thee, Layla,

to be my December bride,

to have and to hold

for as long as we
both shall live.

Thank you.

I now pronounce you
husband and wife.

You may kiss the bride.

Merry Christmas.

Merry Christmas.