Christmas Pen Pals (2018) - full transcript

Good morning, Marvin.

Good morning, Hannah.

Activate morning routine.

Activated.

It's December 7th, and today's
weather in Seattle

is a cold one.

You'll need to bundle up.

Sports news is next,

after a song to get us
in the Christmas spirit.

Marvin, turn off the speakers.

Speakers deactivated.



Marvin, check my mail and texts.

52 new emails.

Three missed calls from Lucy,

two missed calls
from Jason Gallagher.

Marvin, schedule a call
with Jason Gallagher

at 3:00 PM today.

Call scheduled.

Hannah Morris speaking.

Hannah Morris?

The creator of Perfect One,

North America's most popular
dating app?

Hey there, Sis.

You know, for someone
who works in tech,

you're not very easy
to get a hold of.



Yes, I know, I'm sorry.

It's been hectic.

Christmas is our busiest time
of year,

everyone's looking for love,

and I just have to make sure
the database doesn't crash.

So, without you,
love could be lost?

The pressure.

Speaking of looking for love,
how is Jonathan?

It's Jason.

Close enough.

He's great.

We have date number 10
this weekend.

Wow, 10?

You must really like this one.

Yeah, I do, I do.

He's...

He's smart, he's successful,
he's organized.

Always on time.

He's got all the things
on my list.

He sounds like the male version
of you.

What does he do again?

Stock market?

Financial analyst?

He works at a private
equity firm.

Right. Sounds thrilling.

You know, I can actually hear
your eyes rolling?

So listen, I'm only going to ask
you this one more time.

Are you absolutely sure you
can't come home for Christmas?

Dad would really love
to see you.

It's been years since you spent
the holidays in Jackson.

Hang on, I was there
two years ago.

For, like, 12 hours!

We miss you.

She really means it, I swear.

You know I would love to see you
guys so much, I just...

I have to stay close
to the office

in case something goes wrong.

But, a... as soon as things
slow down,

I'll come out and see you, okay?

Okay.

It's just sometimes,
it feels like...

you intentionally avoid
coming home.

What!?

What's wrong, are you okay?

I'm sorry, I gotta go, this
is a... a work emergency.

We dropped again?

For the third month in a row?

This is our most popular time
of year!

Could... could the new report
be wrong?

I'm afraid not.

I was hoping we would have
an upswing,

with it being Christmas
and all, but...

We are officially in trouble.

No one is falling in love
on Perfect One.

And word is spreading.

Fast.

That can't be right.

I designed the algorithm
to match people

with their perfect companion

based on an extensive
personality test,

birth order, economic status,
everything!

I've been reading our user
feedback all morning,

and people are sick of the lack
of romance involved

in online dating.

I guess people want to fall
in love the old-fashioned way.

How? At a speakeasy?

This is the 21st century,
for crying out loud.

That's what you need
to figure out.

Why just me?

You're the creative brains
behind this whole operation.

I'm business and sales.

And you create.

Okay.

Naomi, we can't let this happen.

We built this company
from nothing.

It's already happening.

And it's only gonna get worse;
we need to start thinking about

a total rebrand to come out
of this alive.

Okay.

Okay, I, I will re-examine
the algorithms,

I'll make 'em better,
more precise.

What if we need to take a step
back from the numbers,

and focus on understanding
the spark.

The spark.

What is that, like a new
software program?

No!

The spark.

You know, when we meet someone,

and it just feels like
everything is magic?

It's the moment we realize
we're starting to fall in love.

That's what people wanna feel.

Especially at Christmas-time.

And Perfect One
doesn't have that.

Have you ever been in love?

Yeah.

It was forever ago.

So... Before smartphones?

Yes.

Exactly.

You have to find a way
to blend the traditional

and sentimental ways
of falling in love...

with modern technology.

Okay.

I will stay late every night.

So, what you need is to get away
from the office

and get inspired again.

I'm sorry, a... away
from the office?

It's almost two weeks
until Christmas.

Take that time to spend
more of it with Jason.

I'll stay here and manage
the PR and the budget cuts.

Go find that spark.

Jason!

It's Hannah, again.

We need to talk?

Can you just, just call me back?

When you get a chance.

Soon? Please? Thank you.

Okay. Bye.

Incoming email from
Jason Gallagher.

Yes.

Good. Good, good, good, good!

"Dear Hannah, I got
your messages.

"I know you don't like long,
drawn out emails,

"so I will keep this short.

"This just isn't working."

What?

"I'm sorry.

"I can't be in a relationship
that lacks any real connection.

"I might as well be dating
a robot

"with all of the automated
messages I get from you.

"I wish you all the best, but
we just aren't right together.

"Merry Christmas, Jason."

Did I just get dumped via email?

Okay.

Okay, who else can I spend
time with?

Let me see, let me see,
let me see.

Okay, let's see, let's see.

Mike.

He's a little clingy...

Jeremy!

The weird eyebrow
thing happening.

Come on...

Chad.

Yeah, Chad was nice.

He was good.

Okay.

Marvin.

Call Chad.

Calling dad.

No. No, no!

Chad!

Marvin, hang up.
Call Chad!

Hello?

Hi dad!

Hannah!

I'm so glad you called.

I feel like I haven't talked
to you in ages.

How's work?

Saving the world, one set
of lovebirds at a time?

Not exactly.

Things are not going super well
at work right now, to be honest.

I'm sorry to hear that.

But you'll turn it around,
you always do.

I'm not so sure this time.

Does Naomi have you working
over the holidays?

Not anymore.

Well now, wait a minute.

Does that mean you can come
home for Christmas after all?

No!

No! That's not...

Great!

It'll be like old times again.

I'll get your room ready.

Wait, hold on.

Dad, I... I...

Can't wait!

Your sister will be thrilled.

Hannah!

Dad!

I told you not to wait up!

I was too excited to sleep.

Welcome home.

Where are all the decorations?

Normally you have them up
by November 1st.

It's just me in the house.

It seemed a bit silly.

Not even a tree?

You love decorating a tree.
It's your favourite tradition.

Well, sometimes, you have
to let go of the past,

and Lucy and Joe
always invite me over

to decorate theirs anyway, huh?

Come on, get this
stuff upstairs.

You must be tired.

There we go.

Some things never change.

A lot of happy memories.

It's late. I'll let you unpack.

Glad to have you home.

Goodnight, dad.

See you in the morning,
Sweetheart.

Okay.

Marvin. Close the blinds.

Marvin.

Please close blinds.

Marvin!

Yeah.

Good morning.

Good morning!

How'd you sleep?

Fine.

That, mattress could use
a little upgrade though.

Hey, what's the WiFi password
here again?

I should've told you.

I got rid of the internet
a few months ago.

Are you serious?

Well, what can I say?

An accountant always looks
where he can save a buck.

Plus, I've got it at work.

Why do you need the internet
all the time?

To check my email?

The news? Social media?
Bank account?

Number of steps I've taken?
Number of hours I've slept?

I could go on.

I'm surprised you know how
to breathe without it.

Okay.

Where's the coffee maker?

About that.

I went to that new doctor
in town about stomach pains,

and he suggested I quit.

So... there's no internet
or coffee?

I'm sorry, honey.

I have lots of tea!

No, it's... it's fine,
I'll just...

go to a cafe in town after
breakfast and get some coffee.

Check my email.

While you're out,
would you mind,

mailing some Christmas cards
for me?

So you're still writing out
all those cards to everyone?

Some traditions I just
can't seem to let go of.

You know, if you had WiFi,

I could set up your email so
that a virtual Christmas card

goes out to everyone
automatically every year.

It would save you a ton of time.

You know, snail mail really is
a thing of the past, dad.

There's more to life
than increasing its speed.

Come on.

Thanks dad, this looks great.

Well, your mom's old recipe.

So, how are things going
with the new guy you're dating?

Well, he broke up
with me actually.

In an email.

No. I'm sorry.

You deserve better than that.

It's fine.

We weren't really working,
anyway.

Do you ever think about
meeting someone new?

Putting yourself
out there again?

I wouldn't even know
where to start!

Well, I could get you
a smartphone.

And then, you could sign up
for Perfect One.

I'm sure there are tons of women
out there

that would love to spend time
with you.

You're a total catch!

I'm too old school
for that techie stuff.

Besides, I'm fine as I am.

Are you?

Of course!

I have a good life.

I have two beautiful daughters,
and the most wonderful grandson.

Don't you worry about me.

Can I help you?

Grande mocha frappuccino,
hold the whip.

And the WiFi, please?

Is that order a joke?

Hannah.

Sam.

You're home!

You're here.

I own the place.

I...

It's, it's very vintage.

Yeah, I took it over
five years ago.

Figured I'd keep it
the same way.

How nostalgic of you.

Well, if it ain't broke,
why fix it?

To improve things.

Keep up with the 21st century.

How are... how are you?

How are... how are your parents?

They're just a couple
of snowbirds now.

They spend the winters
down south.

Are you gonna go down and
see them over the holiday?

Got a business to run.

I'm sure you can remember I
wasn't exactly Mr. Christmas.

Right. Right.

Speaking of Mr. Christmas,
how is your dad?

I haven't seen him
for a few weeks.

He's good.

He actually seems
a little lonely.

Kinda wish he'd meet
someone new,

it's been so long since...

Yeah.

Look, I'm... I'm sure he'll find
someone when he's ready.

You can't rush these things.

I updated the inventory.
We are all stocked up.

Thanks, Julie.

Did... did I interrupt
something?

No.

- No.
- No.

Julie, Th... this is Hannah.

We... went to high school
together.

She's the reason
I passed physics.

So, you knew Sam
back in high school?

I bet all the girls had
a crush on him.

Something like that.

I, gotta go!

Merry Christmas.

Merry Christmas.

Hey, didn't you want
a... coffee?

Aunt Hannah!

Max!

Oh, my goodness, you're a giant!

How did you get so big?

How are you?

Good.

I just signed up
for Christmas Cupid!

I've never heard of it,
but that sounds amazing.

I can't believe
you're really here!

How'd you know where to find me?

Dad called me.

Also, everyone knows
Hannah Morris can't go more

than two minutes upon waking
without her caffeine fix.

You, my dear, have a problem.

By the way, speaking of which,

thanks for telling me that Sam
now owns the cafe downtown!

It's exactly the kind of thing
I was hoping to avoid.

Yikes.

Awkward small-talk with an ex?

The past.

Was it weird to see him?

No, we broke up when I was
a sophomore in college.

I mean, we were kids.

It was like the Mesozoic era.

You were alive
with the dinosaurs?

Cool!

Yes, I was.

You didn't answer my question.

Okay, fine.

Next topic.

Dad invited us over
for lunch today.

He's so excited
to have you home.

It... it's making me question
who his favourite really is.

Does he seem kind of lonely
to you?

He hasn't even put up
any decorations.

I know, but what do you expect?

He lives alone and spends
all of his time at the office.

The apple doesn't fall
far from the tree.

What's that mean?

Mom, can we go to
the candy store now?

You promised.

Yes, yes I promised.

Do you want to come with us?

I just have to drop off
a couple Christmas cards

for dad at the post office
first, but then,

I will meet you back
at the house, okay?

See you there, sis!

Hannah Morris!

What a pleasant surprise!

Mrs. Monroe!

I haven't seen you since I
taught 12th grade English.

And please, call me Martha.

I didn't know you worked here.

You bet, ever since I retired
from the high school.

What can I do for you today?

Yeah, I just need to get
some stamps for these.

You interested in signing up
for the town's Christmas Cupid?

My nephew was just talking
about that.

What is it, exactly?

Well, it's an old Christmas
tradition the town used to do

during the Second World War.

Strangers would write to each
other in the hopes of either

forming a deep friendship,
or better yet,

falling in love.

All you have to do is sign up,

and I connect you
with a secret pen pal.

Match-making's my specialty.

Pen pal, huh?

Yup.

Then all the letters have to be delivered
either to that mailbox over there,

or the red one outside.

And I'll make sure all the
letters get to the right house.

That seems like quite a bit of
hassle when it's so much easier

just to meet someone online.

Well, you'd be surprised
how many people prefer

to write letters.

Half the town signed up.

So, why did the tradition stop?

Well, during the war,
the post office made sure

that letters were delivered
very quickly.

It was the only way loved ones
could keep in touch.

But once the war ended,

using the phone became cheaper,
more efficient, and more modern.

A little too modern
if you ask me.

This could be perfect.

Great!

I'll get you a signup sheet.

No, no, no.

No, not for me, no.
For my dad.

Can I run home
and bring him back?

Of course, but today's
the last day to sign up.

Okay. I will be back.

Thanks, Mrs. Monroe.

Martha!

Thanks for waiting.

Dad!

Yup?

Hey!

So, you have to sign up
for Christmas Cupid.

It is the perfect way for you
to meet someone new.

Hello to you, too.

Joe. Hi!

Good to see you!

Is that that pen pal thing
everyone keeps talkin' about

at the office?

Yes, exactly!

You are such a great writer.

Aren't pen pals for kids?

No!

Liz, would you just tell dad
that he has to sign up

for the Christmas Cupid thingy?

I signed up, Grandpa!

Maybe we'll be pen pals!

I think it's a great idea.

See?

For you.

What? For me?

Now that I can get
on board with.

Okay. Nice try.

But... no!

I need to spend every
waking moment

trying to save Perfect One.

Naomi needs me to focus on
researching old fashioned ways

of falling in love that are
both timeless and sentimental.

No. For... for other people!
Not for me!

Besides, I don't, I don't even
wanna meet someone new.

I just got dumped.

So...

Technically, you're
not meeting them.

You're just writing to them.

Yeah.

Okay, you know what,

this whole thing was supposed
to be about dad?

So, I'm not quite sure
what's happening.

Why don't you both sign up?

Brilliant!

Really?

Now that seems fair to me.

The only way I will sign up
is if you do, too!

You serious right now?

Do we have a deal?

You know what, it might
actually be good

for research purposes.

So, okay, fine.

That's the only reason
I'm doing it.

Well, looks like Christmas
just got a lot more interesting.

Boy, I'll say!

Yeah.

Here you go!

You're back!

Nice to see you, Teddy.

You too, Martha.

Somehow, my daughters have
convinced me to sign up

for this Christmas Cupid affair.

Well, I think that's splendid.

I'll get you a signup sheet.

And one for my Hannah here, too.

Delightful!

You're just in time.

The first letters are gonna
arrive tomorrow.

And after you finish signing up,

something sweet
to say thank you.

All right.

Woo!

Now, the first rule is, every
letter has to be handwritten.

No computers, phones, gizmos
or gadgets allowed.

But typing is so much faster.

Speed is not the goal here!

Music to my ears!

And the second rule is,

you have to come up
with a pen name.

A fake name? Why?

The experience will be
so much richer

if you don't know
who you're writing to.

Plus, on Christmas Eve, there's
a Christmas Cupid festival,

where everyone will finally
reveal their true identities

to one another.

It's gonna be so fun.

Try to think of a name
that reminds you of a special

Christmas memory.

How about Bing?

White Christmas was
a favourite of ours,

wasn't it, Hannah?

Yeah, we used to watch it
every year.

Great choice.

How about you, Hannah?

Stardust.

Here goes nothin'.

Hey, dad?

Yeah?

Do you remember how
your parents fell in love?

I do, why do you ask?

I'm just trying to figure out
how people

from their generation met.

Well, it was an
ice cream parlour.

Dad worked there,
and she came in every...

every Tuesday for
a root beer float.

Eventually, he mustered up
enough courage

to ask her to a movie.

That, and an extra scoop of
ice cream sealed the deal.

I'm guessing you don't know
how mom's parents met?

I wish I did.

But your mom was too young
when they died.

I would have loved to have
met them.

Yeah, me too.

Ooh.

Hey!

Hey!

Look what I just found!

That did not take long.

One for Bing.

And one for Stardust.

What is hangin' off
of these letters?

It looks like an invitation
to something.

Yes!

"Welcome to the First Annual
Christmas Cupid.

"Since 1945.

"All participants are invited
to a free skate

"at the local arena tonight
at 6:00 P.M.

"Come for a chance
to brush shoulders

"with your new pen pal."

Well, I haven't skated since,
sixth grade?

So, yeah. Count me out.

Hey, nice try!

We're in this together,
remember?

Well, in her defence,

she's possibly the worst skater
in the country.

Yeah, that's...
That's my point exactly.

A deal's a deal, kiddo.

Come on, read your
letters already.

Okay. All right.

"Dear Stardust: I must confess

"that I almost didn't
write this.

"I've never been good
with words,

"and don't really know why I
signed up in the first place.

"Martha somehow convinced me.

"She said that Christmas
is a magical time of year,

"and anything is possible
if we truly believe.

"I think that I could use a
little bit of Christmas magic

"these days.

"Look forward to hearing
from you. Hutch."

So?

He spelled "believe" wrong.

What kind of a person
doesn't know

that it's "i before e,
except after c?"

This was such a bad idea.

Give him a break, Judge Judy.

No one is perfect.

What about you, dad?

How was your letter?

She sounds very interesting.

She has recently
taken up painting.

I mean honestly, did Martha
set me up with a second grader?

Give it a chance, Hannah.

You never know what surprises
will come out of this.

Spellcheck was invented
for a reason.

Honey!

Are you okay, Aunt Hannah?

Yep, good, just figuring it out.

It's gonna be great.
It's gonna be great.

Welcome, welcome!

I'm so glad you came.

Thanks, Martha.

Hannah! Are you okay?

Fine!

Fine. Good.

Look! It's the Mayor.
Have fun!

Well, if it isn't
the Morris gang!

What a pleasant surprise!

Susan, great to see ya.

Hey, Susan.

Hannah, I haven't seen
you for years.

You are looking more
and more like your mother!

She was a little bit better
on skates.

Isn't this great?

I swear, the whole town is here.

Martha, she sure knows how
to bring people together.

Does she ever!

This is really something.

How are the kids?

They're great.

Nicole is in Mexico with
her family for the holidays,

and Simon is still finishing up
his degree in France.

Fantastic.

You must be proud!

I should really introduce you
to the ladies from my book club.

They are gonna be so excited

that you signed up
for Christmas Cupid.

What'd I tell ya?

They're just over there, on
the other side of the rink.

Okay. I'll meet you over there.

I'm just waiting for Hannah,
here.

No, no, no. I'm fine,
I'm fine! You go!

I'll... I'll catch up.

Are you sure, Honey?

Yes! Go, go.
Get outta here.

Get outta here.

Okay.

Okay... I'll just... go...

I can do this.

Yeah. I got this,
I got...

Ouch!

Hannah Morris on skates.

I never thought I'd see the day.

Sam.

What are you doing here?

Don't tell me you signed up
for Christmas Cupid.

I'm just serving hot chocolate
as a favour for Martha.

Okay.

Did... you sign up?

I... I'm doing it
for research.

Plus, also, my dad refused
to do it unless I did, so...

Yeah.

I can't imagine having to write
a new letter every other day

for the next two weeks.

Sounds...

Stressful.

What are you talking about?

You used to be a great
letter writer.

Back in the day.

I think I still have a few
of those, somewhere.

Well, I knew extortion was
somewhere in my future.

So, who do you think he is?

I don't know.

Honestly, I wish I hadn't
signed up.

I just want the next two weeks,
and Christmas,

and anything to do with it
over with.

That does not sound like
the same girl

that once dragged me carolling

while wearing a lit-up
Christmas sweater.

Well...

You know, some things change.

I'm gonna go check
on my dad and Max.

See you later!

Try to have fun.

Okay!

Sh-

Hannah!

- You okay?
- You okay?

That was a hard fall.

Here, let me help you up.

Thank you.

Ouch.

That's a good one.

Yeah.

Is she okay, Dan?

You two know each other?

Yeah.

I'm a regular at the cafe.

Hey, hey, Sam, would you mind
finding us a bandage?

Thank you...

I'm Daniel Harrison, by the way.

Local MD.

And you are?

I'm, Hannah Morris.

Local... figure skating champ.

I will be signing
autographs later.

In case you're interested!

Well, Hannah Morris,

you might wanna think about
taking some skating lessons.

Doctor's orders.

You must be the new doctor
that told my dad

to stop drinking coffee.

What, Ted?

Yeah!

Guilty as charged.

I... I just moved here a few
months back from Chicago.

Took over Doctor Tucker's
practice.

Chicago?

It's kind of a small town
for a big city guy.

Well, my sister and her husband
live here, so it makes sense.

Get to see my niece
anytime I want, now.

It's nice to be close to family.

But with how much I work,

I don't really get a chance to
meet anyone outside the office.

Which is why I signed up
for Christmas Cupid.

You signed up for this?

Yeah! Why do you think
I'm here?

I don't know, for like...

ice skating Emergencies?

Technically, I'm supposed
to be off duty.

Sorry about that.

Here you go.

Thanks Sam.

Perfect.

Actually, I'm pretty excited
about it.

It's such a unique way to meet
someone new.

Secretly, I can't wait
'til she writes me back.

I dropped my first letter off
last night.

Really? I just got my first
letter this morning.

I should get back to the stand.

What?

Yeah, okay.

Great.

Thank you!

Looks like you're gonna be okay.

Okay.

Thank you.

Hannah!

Sarah?

Sarah! Hi!

It's been so long!

Are you okay?

I saw you fall from across
the rink!

Yeah, well, thanks to Doctor
Harrison over here,

I think I'm gonna live.

Daniel is a lifesaver.

Sarah and I went
to high school together.

I haven't seen you since...

When?

My 21st birthday bash.

I think I should let you
two catch up.

It was really nice to meet you,
Hannah.

You too.

Put ice on that tonight, okay?

Okay!

Got it.

Isn't he great?

I have never been so grateful
to be so bad at skating

in my entire life.

How are you?
How are you?

What's been going on?

Good! Good.

I moved back here
a few years ago,

got a job teaching fourth grade.

Yeah, Max is in my class!

What?

Yeah, but, okay, how about you?

Sounds like you've been busy
hanging out

with Mark Zuckerberg?

And doing TED talks?

Your life sounds amazing.

I actually went on a few dates

with a guy that I met
on Perfect One.

Really?

Yeah, it's just, you know,
it didn't really work out.

Like, it... We didn't really
have that...

Spark?

Exactly.

- Yeah.
- Yeah.

Yeah.

I'm excited about this, though.

Yeah, I've skated around
the rink five times already.

Trying to see who my pen pal
could be!

Do you really think it's
possible to fall in love

through a letter
with a total stranger?

Why not?

It's like Martha said: "anything
can happen at Christmas."

Even falling in love.

Oh. Okay.

Dear Hutch, thank you
for your letter.

Like you, I thought about
not going through with this.

Sometimes the Christmas season
can be hard for me.

It used to be my favourite time
of year,

especially decorating the tree
with my family.

But now, things are different.

Really different.

We don't even have
a tree this year.

However, I'm beginning to wonder
if perhaps Martha is right.

Maybe there is still
some Christmas magic

left to be found.

I just don't know where to look.

Any suggestions?

Look forward to your reply.

Stardust.

Finally!

Hey, Naomi.

Yeah, sorry, I've been trying
to stay on top of my emails,

but my dad just gave up
his WiFi.

So, how is everything?

Our numbers are still continuing
to dip.

We lost 3,000 users
just this week alone.

Our... our investors are
threatening to pull out.

You've gotta be kidding me!

How long do we have?

If we don't have a solution
by the new year,

it's bad, Hannah.

Have any brilliant ideas landed
in your lap?

Not unless you consider a letter
from a stranger "brilliant."

Come again?

I signed up for my hometown's
Christmas Cupid,

which is this old tradition
from the '40s

where people are matched
with anonymous pen pals

in the hopes of finding
friendship or falling in love.

It's all pretty ridiculous,

but I thought it might be good
for research.

Sounds fascinating.

I... I'm intrigued.

Is it working?

Well, I don't really even know
anything about the guy.

But I am holding his second
letter in my hand as we speak.

Well, open it!
Read what it says.

I don't know.

Come on.

Okay, all right.

Okay. All right.

Okay.

Here goes.

"Dear Stardust"

That's my pen name.

"I understand what
you're feeling.

"Sometimes we romanticize
our past so much

"that we can't enjoy
the present.

"So let's try to change that.

"I challenge you to get a
Christmas tree and decorate it

"with your loved ones,
whoever they are.

"It might feel different
than it did before,

"but maybe somewhere
in that old tradition,

"Christmas magic still lives."

He sounds so sweet!

So, when you gonna go?

Go where?

To get a tree?

No, I don't know.

It's a... it's a nice thought,
but I'm...

But what?

This Christmas pen pal cupid
whatever thing may be

just the inspiration
you've been needing.

You gotta go with it.

Okay.

Okay.

But I have to wait 'til my dad
gets home from work.

Unless...

Unless I surprise him with one.

Now you're thinking.

Hannah Morris?

Greg.

Greg Williams, hey!

If it isn't the high school
valedictorian

before my very eyes.

How are you?

I didn't know you
still lived here.

I am actually just in town
for the holidays.

I live in New York now.

Really?

Yeah. I work at Frank and Oak
Real Estate.

You're looking at one of
the top ten

real estate agents in the city!

That's very impressive.

Thank you.

I thought I saw you
at the skating rink.

Wait.

You signed up for
Christmas Cupid too?

Yeah. Mrs. Monroe...

Martha.

Martha, right.

Martha.

She basically forced me to
when I ran into her.

Yeah, sounds about right.

Listen, I mean, I gotta run.

Do you... do you want to grab
a cup of coffee

while we're both in town
and catch up?

Sure.

Great.

Call me.

Okay!

All right.

- See ya.
- See ya.

Okay. Tree, tree.

Yeah. This is the one.

Hi!

Hi. Excuse me?

Can... can I get this tree?

Sure.

You just use one of the carts
over there and bring it

to your vehicle.

Wait, you don't...

You don't deliver?

Good one.

Thanks, Julie.

Say, Sam, when are you gonna get
some new options in this place?

I'd pay good money for
a pumpkin spice latte.

Yeah, that must take
a lot of courage,

to say that out loud.

Trust me, Mike, I've been
telling him that for months.

What's the saying?

"Stubborn as a mule"
or "dumb as a doorknob?"

I think they both work.

You still on for hockey tonight?

Starts at 7:00.
Don't be late.

I'll be there when I get there.

Hey Spencer, what's up?

Hey Julie.

I'm good, how are you?

I'm-

I...
I mean, not much.

Not much. Not much is up.

I'm good.

Are... are you good?

I... I'm... I'm good.

Good. Good.

Good, good, good, good.

Did you want anything, or?

Yeah.

Yeah, yeah. Sure.

I'll... I'll take that.

The pink butterfly cupcake?

Yup.

It's for my sister.

You have a sister?

How much would that be?

$3.00.

Okay.

Well, hey.

Keep the change.

Thanks.

Okay.

Good.

Okay.

Bye.

He has a serious crush on you.

Who? Spencer?

He's just awkward.

No way.

I know someone who
was just like him.

You?

Almost passed out every time

I tried to talk to the girl
I liked.

I ended up having to stick
a note in her locker

in 11th grade, just to ask her
to a movie.

Did she go out with you?

Quite a few times.

We ended up dating
for almost four years.

Four years?

How have you never told me this?

The point is, don't be so quick
to brush him aside.

Who was she?

Forget it, you're not listening.

Someone I know?

Stop.

Was she pretty?

She was-

Hannah!

It was Hannah?

Would you go fill
some mugs or something?

Large coffee, black.

Should I even ask?

I was trying to surprise my dad
with a Christmas tree,

but I don't have a car.

It was the perfect tree.

No, it's on the house.

Thanks.

I... have my truck.

I could take you.

Seriously?

Wait, now?

As opposed to?

Aren't you working?

You know, Julie's here.

Hey Julie?

Yes?

Can you hold down the fort
for a bit?

I'm gonna help Hannah
with something.

As you wish.

Ooh, could you drop off
my Christmas Cupid letter

on your way?

Fine.

Are you sure?

Well, you can't give up
on the perfect tree

just because of a bump
in the road.

Now, let's go before I change
my mind.

You too.

Looks great.

You picked a beauty.

My dad is gonna be so excited.

Thank you so much, Sam.

I could not have done this
without you.

I owe you one.

How about one of your
mom's famous apple pies?

I think I could find
that recipe somewhere.

Never in a million years did I
think that when I came home,

I'd be buying a Christmas tree,

or writing to a Christmas
pen pal.

How's that going, by the way?

He seems really... sweet,
actually.

It feels like he's listening
to me.

Says the girl who wished
she never signed up?

Yeah, well, I'm trying
to give it a chance.

Well, don't get too excited.

You could be writin'
to Principal Cullen

for all you know.

I saw him at the rink.

What? That's so gross!

Remember how much nose hair
he had?

Yes!

And how it connected
to his moustache?

Yes!

Well, it still does, but...
Hey, maybe he's the one.

Love knows no bounds, after all.

It "nose" no bounds.

Okay, that's just
a terrible joke.

You should never say that again.

Can you...

You know, you need to stop!
Right now.

Forget I mentioned it.

Hey!

Is that Sam I see?

What a surprise!

Ted.

A tree!

It's the perfect tree!

Well, you know, I figured we
hadn't decorated in a long time.

I thought maybe we could
do it tonight.

Unless you threw out
all the decorations.

Threw out?

I don't think so.

Come on, Max,
let's go find them.

Well, I should get going.

Yeah.

Hey, thanks again for today,
Sam.

Glad I could help.

Sam, you should come back later
to decorate with us.

Yeah? I...
I don't know...

He did help bring it in.

Only seems right
that you should get

to help decorate it, too.

I mean, unless you're too much
of a Scrooge to participate

in something so merry and jolly.

Alright, count me in.

This might be our best
tree ever!

It definitely beats the year
a live squirrel jumped out.

It practically gave mom
a heart attack.

Just like that movie.

We had to chase it around
the house.

We?

I think you mean Sam.

He chased that thing with an old
pot and saved the day!

Come on.

It's a true story.

We have to give Joe
some credit here.

He screamed every time
that thing ran by,

so at least I knew
where it was, right?

You're my hero.

Why thank you!

It really is perfect.

Not yet. We're missing the star!

Would you like to do
the honours, Mr. Max?

Really? Cool!

Come on, Joe.

Give me a hand with this guy,
here.

All right, ready?

One, two, up we go!

Good guy!

All right, you got it, man.

Hannah?

Are you okay?

Yeah, I'm fine. Sorry.

What's wrong?

It's nothing.

It's... it's stupid.

Is this about Max putting
the star on top of the tree?

I know that used to be
your mom's job.

You remember that?

She is hard to forget.

It just doesn't...

It doesn't feel right
without her.

This whole Christmas season
just makes me miss her more

than I can bear.

It's too much.

You know, the way I see it,
continuing old traditions

you used to do with your mom

will only help keep her alive
in your heart.

Just because you added a twist
to the tradition,

it doesn't erase the past.

She would love to see Max
putting the star

on top of that tree.

It would break her heart
to see you avoiding

the Christmas season just
because she isn't here.

I know.

I know, you're right.

I just thought that I would be
over this by now.

It's been so many years.

I'm just tired of feeling sad.

Well, sometimes it doesn't
matter how much time goes by.

We can still miss someone
with our whole heart.

And that's okay.

It just means we love
them fully.

When did you get so smart?

I know what it's like
to miss someone.

Come see the tree,
it's all done!

Come on!

Okay, I promised your mom
we were just looking today,

so don't try to trick me
into buying you anything.

Hey, look, it's Doctor Harrison!

Hey!

Well, if it isn't my favourite
figure skater?

How's the wrist?

It's good, it's good.

Thanks for asking.

Good.

Hey, Max, good to see
you again, buddy!

This is Lizzie, my niece.

Hey, Lizzie!

Did you find anything
interesting in here yet?

I'll show you!

Come on!

I miss it sometimes.

Just being a kid, getting
so excited by everything.

And what made a nine-year-old

Doctor Harrison fill up
with excitement?

Dreaming of becoming a doctor.

Really?

You... you knew you wanted to be
a doctor from the age of nine?

I was six, actually.

I guess I just always knew
what I wanted.

I... I think that's an
incredible quality to have.

Did you accomplish everything?

Almost.

There's just one thing left.

Yeah, what's that?

To find someone.

The one.

And, if Martha is as good
a cupid as she says she is,

I think it's my pen pal.

I've got a good feeling
about it.

Really?

Even though you have no idea
who you're writing to?

Who knows?

Maybe she's standing right
next to me.

Hannah.

Hey, Martha.

Or, should I say, Stardust?

How can I help ya?

I just came by for some stamps.

How's it going with your
Christmas pen pal so far?

You happy you signed up?

Yeah, he seems great.

I just... can't really wrap
my brain around

the whole concept of falling
in love through letters.

It seems a little far-fetched.

How come?

Anything's possible
at Christmas.

Plus, look at all the couples
that ended up together in 1945.

I found this digging through
the archives at the library.

"Margaret James and Thomas Floyd

"married three months
after Christmas Cupid."

"Jill Hartwick
and Hal Bradford."

These are... these are
my mom's parents!

You're kidding?

"The two began writing right
before Hal went off to war,

"and it wasn't until
the following Christmas

"when he was discharged that
they finally met in person.

"They married two weeks later
and quickly became pregnant

"with their only daughter."

That's my mom!

This, this is incredible.

I wouldn't even be here if
it weren't for Christmas Cupid.

I told you.

Writing letters is magical.

So, hold on.

First, you didn't even want
to sign up.

And now you're telling me

that you think he could be
your soulmate?

Do you have any idea
who it could be?

No! I have no idea.

It could be Doctor Daniel.

Or maybe even Greg Williams.

Did I tell you I ran into him
the other day?

Apparently, he's
very successful.

And you know how I love
a good work ethic.

Mail!

Ooh!

Okay.

Okay.

Here, here!

Well, what does it say?

Hang on, hang on, hang on.

"Dear Stardust, to help you
on your quest to finding

"the magic of Christmas again,
I've drawn you a special map.

"If followed correctly,

"you will find a Christmas
treasure at the end.

"Can't wait to read
your next letter.

"Thinking of you often."

He drew you a map?

He drew me a map!

I think we're supposed to go
through the gate.

Okay, if you say so.

'Cause we just came
through here.

Okay.

Excellent.

You go.

You go!

You go!

Okay. Okay.

Okay.

Okay, I think we just keep
going down this-

This guy better not be the
Zodiac Killer or something.

Don't say that,
he's not the Zodiac!

You don't know that!

Hannah!

Look!

Okay!

What am I supposed
to be looking for?

There's an arrow!

No, no, no!

I'm not putting my hand
in there.

Hang on.

I think I feel something.

Oh god.

Please don't be someone's
big toe inside.

Stop it!

Okay.

Please, please, please.

Okay.

Here.

It's so cute!

"Found these at an antique store
and thought of you.

"I can't explain why.

"Apparently, they are over 60
years old and were inspired

"by a wonderful old book called
The Christmas Star."

"I hope you
like them. Hutch."

Did you tell him about the book?

No!

God, I think I just felt it!

What?

The spark!

Dear Hutch.

What you did for me today
meant so much.

More than you could
possibly understand.

I will forever cherish
those earrings,

and whenever I wear them,

I will remember the feeling
that you gave me today.

Thank you.

You are more than I could have
wished for.

What are you doing up so late?

Making Christmas Cupid cookies.

Christmas Cupid cookies?

Who blackmailed you?

Well, since everyone in town
was participating in the thing,

I figured it would be good
for business.

Which... I could use right
about now.

I can relate to that.

Really?

Your company, it...

Yeah. We've been taking a turn
for the worse.

I may be back to waitressing,
come New Years'.

Yeah.

Hey, I've heard the tips
are great.

Have you ever, like, thought
about getting WiFi in here?

Or, you know, like setting up
a rewards point program

to give customers incentives
to keep coming back?

No way!

This place would lose its soul
with that stuff.

You know, someone
once told me that just

'cause you add a new twist
to an old tradition

doesn't mean you're erasing
the past.

Really?

Kay, well, he sounds like
a doofus.

A... a doofus? Really?

Yeah, that's a...
That's a thing I say.

It's a good word.

More grown men should use
that word.

Right.

These look amazing.

Yeah, I just need to finish
with the icing now.

Well, put me to work.

Okay. Be my guest.

Great.

They are so delicious.

Thank you.

And thanks for helping.

It's actually an old
family recipe.

I just added marshmallow
for texture.

Wait, so like, you added
something new

into an old recipe,
and it made it better?

That's so weird!

Okay. Okay. Look, I get
your point.

I just don't want to see
this cafe

turn into some hipster place

where everyone's wearing
their headphones,

and they're more focused
on their apps

than they are on each other,
you know?

Yeah.

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

No, no, no, no, no.

It's totally fine.

I am starting to understand
the importance of really...

really connecting with people,
face to face.

Instead of, just...
you know?

Through our devices.

But I do think that technology
can do a lot

to bring people together.

Yeah. That's totally true.

I mean, what would we do
without viral cat videos?

I don't even know.

I don't know either.

So, you have anyone
in your life these days?

Sort of.

I'm... I'm getting to know
someone, but... yeah.

It's nothing serious.

Anyone I know?

I doubt it.

Look, it's... it's complicated.

Um, anyway, how's your
Christmas pen pal?

He's actually...
pretty amazing.

Wait... are you falling
for this guy?

I don't know.

Maybe?

I think so, I don't know.

Look.

Remember what I said?

Don't get your expectations
too high.

I'd hate to see you get
let down.

He's already surpassed
my expectations.

He's helping me understand what
I used to love about Christmas.

I haven't enjoyed this time
of year since...

Since my mom died.

Must be midnight.

I better go.

Yeah.

Goodnight, Sam.

'Night.

Hannah?

Yeah?

You still owe me
your mom's apple pie.

Right.

One at a time, folks!

One at a time!

Let's keep the casualties
to a minimum.

This isn't Black Friday!

Hannah!

Hey, Sarah!

This is insane.

People are really into this!

No kidding!

Between you and me,

I kinda think my guy
might be Daniel.

He is a hot commodity
around here.

Who are you hoping for?

I want it to be Sam.

Sam?

He's not doing it.

But he was at the ice rink.

He was selling hot chocolate,
but he never actually signed up.

Sorry.

But, you know,

that shouldn't stop you
from getting to know him.

I mean, just 'cause he's not
your pen pal

doesn't mean you can't, like,
ask him out.

Really?

Yeah.

You wouldn't mind?

What? No!

No, we're like, ancient history.

Cool!

Thanks Hannah.

Sure! I'll talk to you later.

'Kay.

Hey, Jeff, how's it going?

Daniel!

Hannah!

What a nice surprise!

What are you doing here?

I was just out shopping,
I saw you come in,

I thought I'd come say hi.

I'm glad you did.

Please, take a seat.

I'll take your coat for you.

Thank you.

How's your wrist?

Much better, thanks.

Yeah. It's so funny
you're here,

I was just thinkin' about you.

Really?

Yeah, this whole Christmas Cupid
thing just has my head spinning.

Yeah, you're not the only one.

And, I was thinking about how...

Hold that thought.

The pager.

Okay.

Ahh, shoot.

I... I'm sorry, I gotta go.

Work calls.

We'll finish this
conversation soon, okay?

Sure.

It was nice to see you.

You too.

As short as it was.

Oh my gosh!

So, Sam shoots the 8 ball,

it bounces off of
the pool table,

and smacks me right
in the mouth.

I lose two teeth!

No!

It was hilarious.

One time when I was in college,
we were playing pool,

and Sam actually broke
the TV with a cue.

No, no, not the pool cue.

It was actually the cue ball,
right off the break,

just Bam!

Remind me to never play
pool with him.

You want another drink?

You gonna leave me
with these two clowns?

Yeah, good point.

Come with me.

Okay.

Can we get another round,
please?

This is fun.

Yeah.

I'm... I'm really glad
you're here.

Me too.

Hey Sam!

What?

Would you look at that?

Kiss her!

What?

What are we, in seventh grade?

Kiss her! Kiss her! Kiss her!

Kiss her! Kiss her! Kiss her!

Kiss her! Kiss her!

It's just a kiss, right?

Yeah, right.

Right. Okay.

Kiss her! Kiss her! Kiss her!

Kiss her! Kiss her! Kiss her!

Thank you.

The cookies sold well yesterday.

I saw that.

I'll have to tell Hannah.

She helped me out
with the icing.

Hannah?

When?

A few nights ago, she popped in.

Ooh la la!

No.

It's not like that.

We're just old friends.

Come on.

You can tell me.

I can keep a secret.

There's nothing to tell.

Besides, she's this big city
tech whiz now.

Sam, you own a business.

That's... that's a big deal.

On top of that, you can cook
and bake?

Any woman would be lucky
to date you.

Okay.

Now I know you've lost it.

Well, hey Sarah,
what can I get you?

I'm not here for coffee,
actually.

Oh really?

Can I help you with something?

Well.

I was talking to Hannah.

I had mentioned to her
that I was interested

in getting to know you better,

and, she encouraged me
to ask you out sometime.

Hannah told you to ask me out?

I was thinking maybe we could
grab a drink tonight

at Winston's?

It's... it's okay
if you... don't.

No, no, no!

The cafe doesn't close
'til 9:30.

And then I have to count the...

I...

I'm... I'm closing tonight.
Remember, Sam?

He would love to go out tonight.

Really?

What time can I pick you up?

Hey guys!

Hi! Hi! Hi!

Hi!

How do you spell "triceratops?"

You know what?

Just sound it out and see
where you land.

I'm gonna get the dictionary.

This needs to be perfect.

He seems to be enjoying
his pen pal.

What are you doing here?

Do you think it's cheating if
you're forming a relationship

with someone you've never met,

but then you accidentally kiss
someone else?

What?

Who did you kiss?

Kinda...

Sorta...

Sam?

What?!

How did this happen?

Sit down!

Tell me!

I went to the bar to spend time
with Daniel,

but then he had to go,
so then I wound up

with Sam and his friends,
and there was this whole,

like, mistletoe situation
and it all happened so fast.

It didn't mean anything.

Are you sure?

Yes! I'm sure, yeah.

Plus, I'm really trying

to give my Christmas pen pal
a shot here.

I am just worried that Sam might
think that it meant something.

I do owe him one of mom's
apple pies,

so I'll make a pie,
I'll bring it over,

we'll have a talk.

Do you want the recipe?

Yeah.

Yeah! Do you have it?

Yeah. It's in the cupboard.

In mom's old recipe book.

Hey, Julie, is Sam here?

Sorry, he left early
to go out tonight.

Go out?

Where? With who...
with who?

With Sarah.

They're going to Winston's!

Sarah?

She didn't waste any time.

Are you okay?

Yeah. I'm fine.

I'm good.

Yeah.

I brought this for Sam,

but I can bring it back
another time.

It's fine.

Not necessary.

I can just give it to him.

Oh... 'Kay.

Ooh!

Thank you.

That... works too.

Hannah!

Hi, Greg!

I was gonna get a cup of coffee.

You want to join me?

Yes. Yes.

I would... I would love to.

But I, you know, actually,
I'm just thinking,

it's kind of late for coffee.

You want to go to Winston's
and grab a drink?

Absolutely.

Great.

To Winston's.

Okay.

Hi.

Welcome to Winston's.

How many?

Just two.

The wait will be over an hour.

Hannah! Greg!

Hey!

Look who it is.

What are the odds?

What are you two
doing here together?

Well, we were hoping
to have a drink,

but the wait is over an hour!

Do you guys wanna join us?

We could pull up
two extra seats.

Oh, no.

I'm sure they'd rather have
their own table.

That would be great, thanks.

So then, I get an offer
on the apartment.

It's insanely over asking price,
and you'll never guess

who the buyer was.

Jimmy Fallon.

No way!

I love him.

He's great.
He's great.

Really shy, if you can
believe it.

Say, Sam!

What've you been up to
all these years?

Well, I stayed here to work
after high school,

as Eddie's apprentice
at the cafe.

I started managing
the place at 26,

and eventually, I bought it.

Isn't that amazing?

Thank you.

I was laying down roots.

Let's get another bottle.

I'll be right back.

Could we just get one more,
please?

Thank you.

Excuse me.

Are you okay?

I'm just getting some fresh air.

Why are you here with Greg?

Why are you here with Sarah?

I don't know, you tell me.

I thought you were dating
someone else.

Like I said, it's complicated.

Why does it matter to you?

It doesn't.

Really?

Seems like it does.

I just... I can't keep bumping
into my past.

It needs to stop.

I gotta focus on my future.

With Greg and the big shot
Williams?

With my pen pal, okay?

Whether it's Greg or not.

I just, I need to give it
a shot.

With your pen pal.

Yes.

Okay.

So what are you saying, exactly?

I'm saying I... I can't be
around you, all right?

And why is that?

You know why.

No.

I really don't.
Tell me.

You don't know why.

No. I don't know why,
Hannah.

So why don't you tell me?

I'm here, right now,
in front of you.

You just, you walked out
of my dorm room that night,

and you never came back.

You made it very clear that
you didn't want me around.

I didn't know what I wanted.

My mom was dying.

I... I needed you.

I'm not a mind reader.

You said you wanted to be alone
and I respected that.

What was I supposed to do?

It doesn't even matter anymore.

You should probably
just get back inside.

You think it's easy for me
to see you?

That it's only hard for you?

You're up late.

I went to a movie with a lady
from Susan's book club,

Cheryl.

A date!

How'd that go?

It felt a bit forced,
truthfully.

Well, maybe if you keep trying
it'll feel right?

I don't think
that's how it works.

Is everything alright?

No.

Maybe.

I don't know.

What's on your mind, kiddo?

Okay.

When I signed up for
this Christmas Cupid thing,

I wasn't just doing it
for research.

I was doing it because I wanted
you to find someone.

I was worried that you seemed
lonely and isolated,

and that you'd never get over
your heartbreak over mom.

And now I'm realizing that
this whole time I've really,

pretty much just been
describing myself.

This about your pen pal?

He seems... perfect.

He's kind and thoughtful,

and there's something
about the way that he writes.

I feel like, I... I don't know,
I feel like he understands me.

I think he could maybe
be the one.

So, what's the problem?

Well, I mean, besides the fact

that I still have
no idea who he is.

I'm still thinking about
someone else,

and I can't shake it.

Sam?

Is it that obvious?

It is to your old dad.

Love isn't rational,
my dear, it's magical.

You'll figure it out.

How'd you know mom was the one?

Well, I think I knew for sure
when we were out for dinner,

and I was so nervous...
I started to stutter.

She reached across the table,
put her hand on mine.

It was like a jolt
of electricity, a spark.

Suddenly, my stutter went away.

And I knew right then and there
that everything would be okay,

as long...

As long as I had her by my side.

Do you ever think that...

you could have that spark
with someone else?

No one will ever replace
your mother, Hannah.

But if this Christmas Cupid
experience

has taught me anything,

it's that it's... it's okay
to move forward.

To feel something
for someone again.

Nothing would make
your mother... happier.

It's so hard to let go
of the past.

Well, maybe... maybe it's not
about letting go entirely,

but maybe not holding on
quite so tight.

I'm really sorry I've avoided
coming home as much as I have.

Sometimes the memories
were just too much.

I really miss being home.

You're here now,
that's what counts.

Okay.

Here.

Gimme some of that.

All right.

Good.

I second that.

I can't believe Sam said that.

I said some pretty harsh things,
too.

Well, if it makes you feel
any better,

I had a doctor's appointment
this morning,

and guess what?

What?

Doctor Daniel told me that he
hopes that you are his pen pal.

Really?

A doctor for a brother-in-law?

I could get on board with that.

Look, it's a flyer from Martha!

Here. Come here bud.

What does it say?

"Dear Christmas Cupid
participants.

"This is a reminder to write
your final letters

"to your pen pals before you
find out who they are.

"Include how you plan
to reveal yourselves.

"Looking forward to a night of
serendipity on Christmas Eve!

"Martha Matchmaker."

Okay! Thanks!

Susan! Happy almost
Christmas Eve.

Ted. Thank you.

You too!

What are your plans
for the big day?

Since Paul passed away
and the kids aren't here,

I'm just in a house by myself.

Why don't you come have
Christmas dinner with us?

I don't want to impose
on your family, I...

No, no.

No imposition.

I promise.

You know what?

That would be great.

Thank you.

How was the date with Cheryl?

Oh, goodness, that woman
is a chatterbox.

I hardly said a word.

I should have warned you
about that.

Bye.

Bye!

You're late.

By one minute.

You're still late.

Since when do you care?

Since now.

You're grumpy.

Why are you grumpy?

I'm not grumpy.

Okay... Fine.

Hannah came by and dropped
this off for you.

I don't want it.
Throw it out.

What? Throw it out?

Yeah. Now. Gone.

Capiche?

Okay. Look, I might have only
just turned 20,

but I know what's going on here.

You're in love with her.

I beg your pardon?

Hannah? You love her.

Stop trying to deny it.

I can see it.

Sam.

You have to tell her.

Dear Hutch, I can't believe

it's almost Christmas
Eve already.

Strangely enough, I wish
it was further away

so we could keep writing
one another.

Your letters have meant more to
me than I ever thought possible.

You've helped me realize
that it's time I moved on

from the past, and really let
myself see a future.

I haven't told you yet why
I chose the name Stardust.

When I was growing up, every
single year on Christmas Eve,

my mom would read the book
"The Christmas Star"

to me and my sister.

Yeah. The same book
that the earrings

you found for me
were designed after.

Pretty serendipitous, huh?

It's this beautiful old book
from the '40s,

and sadly, ever since
she passed away,

we haven't been able to find
our copy anywhere.

Anyway, my mom would always
tell me that every time

I look into the sky
and see a shining star,

it is a reminder
that she is with me.

I can't wait to finally
meet you.

I'll be wearing the Christmas
Star earrings,

eagerly searching the room
for you.

And, if I forget to say it
at the festival,

thank you for everything.

Your pen pal.

It's Hannah.

I told you I was not good
with words.

The idea of writing to someone
in the hopes of finding love

sounded ridiculous,
but I'm so happy I did.

I feel deeply connected to you
and this whole process

has made me realize how
closed off I was to the world.

Thank you for opening my eyes.

No matter what happens
after tomorrow night,

know that you mean
so much to me,

and that I care for you deeply.

I'll be the one holding a book.

With love, Hutch.

I can't believe how nervous
I am.

What if it's Principal Cullen?

Stop!

Martha wouldn't do that to you.

I wonder why his name is Hutch.

You can find out tonight!

I'm just so glad that I
don't have to see Sam tonight.

The last time we saw each other
was so bad.

Why are you thinking about Sam

the night that you might meet
your soulmate?

I know, you're right,
you're right, you're right.

Hey, speaking of soulmates?

I told Naomi that I think
Christmas Cupid is,

it just might be the fix that
we've been looking for.

Really? How?

By matching people
with a pen pal.

She loved the idea.

We're gonna call it
"Perfect Pen Pals."

I love it! It's great!

You look great, Aunt Hannah.

Your pen pal is one lucky guy.

You are absolutely beautiful.

Your mom's dress looks perfect
on you.

Thank you, dad.

You look so handsome.

Are you ready to go find
your spark?

I'm ready.

Let's take a picture!

Sam in a suit?

What are you doing here?

Did you sign up?

I can't believe you signed up
and you never told me.

It's Hannah.

What?

My pen pal is Hannah.

Are you serious?

This is crazy.

It's like fate.

I know.

How do I look?

Okay, yeah. Perfect.

Really?

Definitely, she's gonna love it.

Surprise.

Oh my gosh, Spencer?

It's been you this whole time?

I... I can't believe it.

Are you disappointed?

No. No, of course not.

Let's dance.

Okay.

Good luck, Sam!

I really hope Hannah
is my pen pal.

I had a huge crush on her
in high school.

I think now could finally be
my chance.

Well, I wouldn't get
your hopes up too high,

because Daniel and Hannah
are basically spoken for.

They are both convinced
they are each other's pen pals.

Really? The doctor?

Hannah thinks they could even
be soulmates.

She's totally smitten.

I feel bad for Sam, though.

I think he's still hung up
on her,

after all these years.

He needs to get over it already.

Move on.

She's a tech mogul
for crying out loud.

Hey, Sam.

What are you doing here?

I just came here
to give you this.

What's this?

It's Hannah's.

Martha told me
that you two are pen pals

and she left it
at the post office.

Could you give that back to her?

No way. She's my pen pal?

That is amazing!

I was hoping it was her.

I... I'll definitely give this
to her.

Thank you.

Hey, Sam.

I think she's the one.

I really do.

Isn't that crazy?

Yeah, well, she's one of
the most amazing people

I've ever known, so...
be good to her.

Of course.

Sam!

What are you... what are you
doing here?

Martha, wanted my help
with something,

but I'm... just leaving.

Have a great night.

Is that... is that...
is that it?

What do you want me to say?

I don't... I don't know.

Look, I thought about
what you said the other night.

And I think you're right.

I think it's time to move on
from the past.

You look beautiful.

Thank you.

Yeah.

Bing.

Susan, you're Comet?

I was hoping it was you.

To be honest, I was wishing
for you too.

May I?

Susan, would you like to dance?

Yes, I'd love to.

Lizzie?

Max!

Are you Dial?

You're Skywalker?

Come on!

Looking for someone?

Daniel.

I believe this is for you.

I'm...

I, I just...

I... I can't believe
it's really you!

Do you want to go somewhere
where it's quiet?

Yes. Yes!

Can you give me a minute?

Yeah, I'll just go grab
our coats.

Okay.

Sarah?

What are you doing sitting here
all by yourself?

My pen pal isn't here.

I think he stood me up.

What?

I'm sure he'll come.
Just give it time.

Well, I'm only gonna stay a
little longer before I leave.

One sec...
one sec.

So you were right,

Yeah, I guess I was.

He's waiting for you. Go.

Are you sure?

Yeah. I'll be fine.

Okay.

Do you want my coat?

No, I'm actually fine.

Thank you.

It's funny.

We had so much to say in
our letters and now it's...

hard to find the words.

I know.

It's weird.

You know, I think I know
what might break the ice.

Wait.

I'm sorry, I, I... I don't think
I can do this.

Are you not happy it's me?

No, I am, I... I wanted it to be
you more than anything.

I just... I don't know,
I thought I would...

I thought I would feel something
more when I saw you tonight.

I know what you mean, I mean,
I... I expected to feel...

Like a, like a... spark.

Yeah.

Exactly.

I just, I don't think that
we should force this.

Our letters.

We were so connected.

I know.

The way you opened up about
how your brother's deafness

affected your family.

Brother? What?

I don't, I don't...
I don't have a brother.

What?

Wait, are you Hutch?

Hutch?

No.

No. You're not my pen pal!

I'm not?

No!

No, there must have been
some kind of a mix-up.

I stood up my pen pal!

You need to get back in there,
it's Sarah!

She's waiting for you,
and she's about to leave.

Go!

Sarah?

Yes!

Look, are you sure?

I can't just leave you.

I'm fine, I'm fine.

Go, go, go.

Wait, wait, wait!

What about the book?

Who?

To Hannah, I just left you
in your dorm,

and your first day of college
is tomorrow.

I'm so lucky to call you
my girlfriend,

and more importantly,
my best friend.

I love you, and I'm so proud of
you for going after your dreams.

I know you're gonna
do amazing things.

I believe in you, Sam.

"Beleive".

"I before e." It's Sam.

It's been Sam all along!

Okay.

Dad?

It's so late!

You're not gonna ground me,
are you?

It's Susan, can you believe it?

She's so great, dad.
I've always thought so.

It's funny how you can spend
years knowing someone

without really seeing them.

I know what you mean.

By the way, I told Susan
she'd be welcome here

for Christmas dinner?

Yeah, absolutely.

Thank you.

Tell me about your night.

I saw you leaving with Daniel,
and the next thing I know,

he's dancing
with Sarah Anderson.

I am so confused.

I think I finally know
what I want.

Is that all I get?

Yes. For now.

More later.

But, I gotta go
before it's too late.

I love you, dad.

His cafe lights are on.

Dear Hutch, my name
is Hannah Morris.

Many years ago, I made
the worst mistake of my life,

when I decided to break
things off

with the most amazing person
I have ever known.

It has taken me a long time to
realize that the key to finding

Christmas magic is spending it
with the person you love most.

Which has always been him.

Thanks for everything, Hutch.

But now, I must say goodbye,

and do everything I can
to make things right

with the man of my dreams.

Even if he does
occasionally forget

that it's "i before e,
except after c.

Sincerely, Hannah.

Hi.

Hannah, I'm so sorry
that I stood you up.

I'm... sorry I lied
about signing up.

When I realized it was you
I was writing to,

it was almost Christmas Eve.

So you gave the book to Daniel?

You said you didn't
want me around.

Sam.

You said you wanted
to focus on your future.

You are my future.

I love you, Sam Watson.

I love you too, Hannah Morris.

I always have, I always will.

Even when you don't know
what you want.

Even when you try
to push me away,

I promise you I will never stop
loving you.

That's what I call a spark.

Merry Christmas, Stardust.

Merry Christmas, Hutch.