Magical Christmas Shoes (2019) - full transcript

Oh!

It must be December 5th.

Mm-hmm. Grandma is always
right on time.

Oh, my gosh.

I love when you get in your
design moods.

Your Santa's workshop theme you
had last year blew my mind.

Merry Christmas, Grandma.

Remind me what filling shoes

with candy has to do with
Christmas?

Well, it's a Dutch tradition.

St. Nicholas Eve,



children they put their shoes by
the fireplace

for Sinterklaas to fill with
candies and presents.

So, like a knock-off
Santa Clause?

Whoa! Whoa!
Sinterklaas was Santa

before Santa went mainstream,
okay?

Sorry, I didn't know you were a
Christmas hipster,

No, Grandma, she is
the Christmas hipster.

She just-- she loves tradition

and she always sends me a pair
of shows filled with candies.

"These are the shoes I wore when
I met your grandfather

and took my first steps toward
my future."

Aw!

"May they guide you towards
your dreams

and bring you some
Christmas magic."



Magic? You didn't tell me
the shoes had magic!

Well, she thinks that
they're magic

but I've had my fair share of
ups and downs with them.

Boo!

Magic is not real.

But sure do like wearing
all my Christmas shoes.

Christmas shoe season has begun.

So what's the magic behind these
ones again?

Something about sticky
situations.

Because they're bubble-gum pink?

Yep, and she even filled them
with bubble-gum that year.

Look, it's lunch time.

Do you want to go do
some Christmas shopping?

Yeah. You had me at lunch.

Let's go.

You know, I am so glad we didn't
waste a lunchbreak

actually eating lunch.

I had to get my parents
Christmas gifts.

Here, have a cookie.

You know, last time I spent the
holidays with my grandmother

in the Netherlands,

their gifts, they barely made it
there on time.

Well, it's okay. I got a great
dress for my Christmas party,

although I think I'm going to
have to skip these cookies

if want this to fit, so.

Your loss.

Oh, you know what?

I just have to make one more
stop at Reid's Candy.

You go ahead.

More gifts?
You're putting Santa to shame.

No, this one, it's--
it's really special.

My Dad, he proposed to my mom
there with a peppermint ring

when they were teenagers.

What? I didn't know your parents
were high school sweethearts.

Yeah.

He always said that he knew
she was the one

the first moment he laid his
eyes on her,

but that was the only ring
that he could afford,

so now I just-- I always like to
get them something special

this time of year.

That is so sweet.
You are such a secret romantic.

Reid's Candies and that
peppermint ring,

that's the only thing that makes
me believe

that romance is still alive, so.

Well, I hope so.

Do me a favor, pick me up one of
those peppermint rings.

I think I need one.

Done.

What?

Oh!

Ugh! Really?

- Oh!
- Looks like you're stuck there.

Excuse me?

The bubble-gum.

Uh, yeah.

I guess so.

Would you mind? May I?

Sure.

It's not the first sticky
situation I've gotten out of.

Thank you.

I can't believe that they're
closing this location.

What kind of Grinch's
run this place?

You must really love
this store.

I do.

You know that they make
the best candy canes.

I do. I had my first job here.

- Really?
- Yup.

Thank you.

John Reid.

Excuse me.

John Reid. It's Reid's Candy.

That's John.

Oh.

These numbers are underwhelming
to say the least.

We've got to do something
about this.

Smells so good.

John:
Can I help you?

I see you found
the candy canes.

Hi.

Look, I'm really sorry about
the Grinch thing.

Don't sweat it. It's fine.

I just-- I really--

I can't believe that this is my
last Christmas at this Reid's.

John:
Well, it doesn't have to be.

Stop by any other location.

Time Square, very popular.

Thank you, but it's really
not the same.

Yeah. I wish more people saw it
that way.

If I'm being honest,

it's my father's decision.
The profit's just way down here.

Maybe I could help.

What, are you going to buy
the entire inventory?

No, I would love to, but no.

I'm actually a CPA,

so if you want,
I could look at your numbers.

Maybe just a few financial
tweaks here and there

could increase sales and then,
who knows?

Maybe this Reid's Candy could
live to see another Christmas.

Well, my father does believe in
numbers.

Yeah, well, he's smart 'cause
numbers, they never lie.

And neither do you from what
I can tell.

So, look, if you want,

here's my card.

We're just at Wiltern CPA
up the street.

Um, if you're interested.

Yeah, I'm interested.

This afternoon, does that work?

Sure. Yeah. I think that works.

All right. Great.
Candy cane.

On the house.

Thank you.

I'll see you later.

See you later.

Yeah?

Uh, hello. Hot date?

What? No. Why?

Well, you've cleaned
your entire desk

and checked your makeup twice
since lunch.

Something's happening.

I, um, I may have gotten into
a sticky situation.

Okay, hold on.
I'll be right there.

What happened?

That Reid's Candy store
location, they're closing it.

- Can you believe that?
- No!

Don't they know that that is
a landmark of love?

That's funny. That's very funny.

So I may have, um,
insulted the owner.

How?

I kind of called him a Grinch.

What, he ban you for life?

No. No, he didn't.

I mean, he scraped gum off
my shoe

and then I offered to look
at his books.

- What?
- Wait.

Didn't your grandma give you
these shoes

to get you out of
sticky situations?

Maybe, kind of.

Oh, my gosh.

They are totally magical.

No! No, they're no magical

because I wore my magical
Christmas shoes

on one of the worst days ever.

You know, it really snapped me
out of believing in

the magic of them

and any silly notion of me
becoming and interior designer.

You were wearing your shoes
that day?

Yes, the day I lost my
internship and my boyfriend.

Oh, well, it's more like your
boyfriend stole your ideas

and your internship.

There's no reason to blame your
shoes for that.

You're projecting.

And this, it's just
a coincidence.

Noelle,

you literally stepped

in bubble-gum.

There are no such thing as
coincidences.

Whoa. If that is John,

you need to change into
your red pumps ASAP.

They're not magic.

- Yes, they are.
- They're not magic.

Hey, Noelle.
Is this a good time?

Absolutely, yes.
Allison, this is John Reid.

- Hi.
- Hi.

Nice to meet you.

Noelle is thrilled to get
started on your looks.

Books. Books.

Allison has had a really long
day, haven't you?

Yes. I'm sorry.
Let me get you a chair.

That'd be great. Thanks.

- Oh!
- Down payment.

Oh, Thank you.
These are my favorite.

Consider yourself paid in full.

I love these. Thank you.

- Here. Here you go.
- Thank you.

You're welcome.

Thanks, Allison.

Have a seat.

Just have a look at these
numbers.

These are cute.

Oh, thank you. Thank you.

And that? That's an early
Christmas gift?

Yes, that's from my grandmother.

Would you mind if I read this?

Sure.

Wow. That is sweet.

You got some grandma there.

Yeah, she always includes
a note,

it's supposed to help with
the magic,

or so she believes.

So, what do you think?

Well, your numbers,

they're on a giant decline.

have you had a bad
Yelp review or?

No, we have excellent
customer service,

I make sure of that.

- That's it!
- Did I get a bad review?

No, look at-- you have these
beautiful windows

and there's nothing in them.

So, what do I do?

Like, a big neon sign
in the window?

One of those inflatable like,
tubey guys?

Giant candy cane?

No. You need something that is
just going to

stop people in their tracks.

I think I have an idea.

Look, I don't know.

I would have to be pretty
spectacular.

We'd have to hire a designer

and where are we going to find
on such short notice?

It's already December 5th.

Well, you're in luck.
Already found.

- You?
- Mm-hmm.

You're an accountant.

Well, I'm a very creative one.

I love your store.
I know exactly what to do.

I mean, this Christmas nobody is
walking by Reid's window.

Right, okay.
What have I got to lose?

- Really?
-Yeah.

Okay. You've got to trust me.

John:
All right. I'll let you in

and have at it.

Noelle:
Okay.

Thank you.

-Good luck with that.
- Thanks.

Stop! Stop! Stop!

Uh, what happened?

It looks like you did
the walk of shame

from Santa's village.

Oh.

Anyways, what is so urgent that
I had to miss yoga?

This coffee for starters,
and I just--

I really need a second opinion

before John sees it.

Oh. Okay.

And close your eyes.

Just humor me.

Okay.

This way.

And we're walking.

And we're walking,
A little step here.

- Keep walking.
- Mm-hmm.

And, open them.

Allison:
Oh, wow!

- You did this?
- Yeah.

Are those little
Christmas shoes?

Yes. Yes.

They look exactly like the first
pair my grandmother gave me

and that Christmas I took my
very first steps

and she just swore that
the shoes had

Christmas magic in them.

Look at this. It draws me in.

- It's beautiful.
- Thank you.

It's good to see you
creative again.

It gives you a glow.

Oh, stop it.

It does feel good though,
you know?

It feels like I'm flexing an
unused muscle.

Okay, well, I'm going to go back
to the office.

You need to get this--
what is that? Pine needles.

Garland.

Out of your hair.
I'll cover for you.

Thank you. Thank you.
Thank you. Thank you.

You're welcome.

Great little window over there.

There's a great window
across the street.

Yes!

Merry Christmas.

Thank you so much.
Thank you.

Please, come on in.

Merry Christmas.

Yes! Yes! Yes! Yes!

Hi.

Hey.

Hey, look at you, Ginger Rogers.

Don't stop dancing
on my account.

Just happened to be in the area.

Thought I'd check it out.

Well, that is great work.

People seem to really love it.

The store's been busy
all morning.

You don't think that it's just

a little over the top?

No, not at all.

Normal is boring, and that is
definitely not normal.

I come by it honestly.

All right.
Let's check the numbers.

Noelle:
Okay.

Everything okay?

- It's not good.
- What?

What do you mean?

It's great.

Single day record sales

and we are not even done yet.

You're very funny.

Thank you.
And you're very talented.

You know, I would hire you to
design another window

but I'm sure my accountant would
say I can't afford it.

Hmm. But if your designer works
for candy,

I think that your accountant
would say to go for it.

Really? All right.

Would you do me the honor of
designing me another window?

Oh-- It's-- I can pay you.

I'm just joking.
I'm just being silly.

No! Yes! I do.

I do, um,

I agree to do another window
for you. Sure.

Okay. Great.

Excuse the bad jokes, all right?

Just keep sprinkling

your Christmas magic,
let Rich know, he's the manager,

if you need anything.

Wait a minute,
so you're leaving?

Yeah, I got to get to corporate.

If we're going to
save this store,

Dad needs to see
these record sales ASAP.

Right. Right. Right. Right.

I hope you got some more
sweet ideas.

I have a whole closet of
inspiration.

I look forward to it.

Uh!

John:
Dad!

I saw the future of
Reid's Candies today.

That's great, Son.

Our Maple Street store was
packed,

would you like to know why?

Let's see, it's Christmas?

People buy candy?

The windows, they were decorated
with these Christmas shoes.

What do shoes have to do
with candy?

Well, they were these
Dutch wooden shoes

with candy in it, right next to
a Christmas tree

and our candy was
the centerpiece.

The point is, it became
a Christmas attraction,

it drew people into the store
to buy candy.

Take a look at the numbers.

Wow.

Those are impressive sales.

Exactly, right?

Why don't we let each store
create their own window

with their own artistic
interpretation of

Reid's Candies at Christmas?

Yeah, you see,

that's the artist in you
speaking,

and if you want to become CEO of
this company

you are going to have to have
a little more business savvy.

Can you just let me work with
this one store, please?

I'll admit the numbers are good,
all right?

But every location
has good days.

Right.

Look, I'll tell you what,

you dress another window

and if you can replicate
those sales

we'll talk about your idea.

You got yourself a deal.

Ah!

Hi.

Oh, yeah!

Yeah, everybody loves
your dancing,

Ms. Dancing Machine.

Somebody is on a sugar high.

Here, I think you need this.

Its' actually a Christmas high.

- Oh.
- Guess what?

The window was a huge success

and John, he asked me to create
another window, so.

- No.
- Yeah.

Allison, I just, I forgot how
much I love designing.

I always knew that designing was
your calling.

I don't know how you ended up
in accounting.

Mm. More control.

I get to call the shots and
I get to do things

on my own terms.

But at what cost?

John:
Hey.

- Hi!
- Am I interrupting?

- No.
- Yeah, no, no.

Noelle was just tap dancing.

Wow. Yeah, I have--
I got to go.

You're not wearing a watch.

You're a dancer?

You practically fell over
when you stepped in gum.

Thank you for reminding me.

No, I'm not a dancer but
my grandmother,

she gave me these tap shoes
one Christmas, so.

John:
Those are tap shoes?

Noelle: Mm-hmm.
Well, I had them re-soled

so I could, you know,
wear them in the real world.

Please, don't let me
stop you dancing.

- Please. Come on.
- Oh.

No, I did my encore for good.

So, listen, the spike in sales,

do you think that that's going
to help save the location?

Possibly. That's why I'm here.

Um. Can we redesign
a new window tonight?

Tonight?

I know it's a quick turnaround

but my dad said that if we can
replicate those numbers

with a new display,

that maybe he'll start listening
to my ideas

and possibly save
the Maple Street location.

- John! That's amazing!
- Yes, I know.

Uh, okay. I don't usually do
spontaneity

but I could come up with
some ideas.

Okay, great. How can I help?

Oh, that's-- you know,
I really-- I just--

I like to work solo on things.

Yeah, okay.

Um, well, I do have an
artistic background

so if you change your mind.

Maybe.

Okay, I understand.

I'll go let the manager know

that you're going to be
working all night by yourself.

- Okay.
- Okay.

- Good luck.
- Thank you.

Thank you. Thank you.

Solo act, are you kidding me?

What, are you--

your hiding there?
- Duh!

Listen, what were you thinking?

What do you mean,
"What am I thinking?"

I-- you know what?

I'm thinking that I like
to work alone.

You need to let go of these
control issues.

No, okay? No.

I've been down that path and
I'm not going down it again.

Okay. Show me your new
design ideas.

Well, I was thinking about
sticking to what works best:

the magical Christmas shoes.

- What are you doing here?
- Look, I'm sorry.

I didn't mean to startle you.

Sorry.

I mean, I told you that
I didn't need any help.

Yeah, well. You're not a little
bit happy to see me?

Just-- I caught you there.

Thank you.

So what? Were you just watching
me this whole time?

Not the whole time, no.
That'd be creepy.

Well, I know when an artist is
in the zone

so I'm going to leave you alone.

I mean, you don't have to,

it is your store after all.

That's a good point.

I make a mean coco.

I would love a coco.

- Okay.
- Okay.

So I see you stuck with
the shoe theme.

Mm-hmm.

What's the story behind the
magical Christmas tap shoes?

Well, freshman year of
high school

I auditioned for the lead in
"A White Christmas"

and I thought it was going to be
the start of

an illustrious Broadway career.

And there was an elaborate
tap dance number for the role

that I thought I could somehow
magically pull off

with zero experience

and a nice pair of shoes.

Of course. How could you not?

So my grandmother, she always
encourages me to, you know,

chase after my dreams and she
sent me this pair for Christmas.

And you went on to
glowing reviews

and a full page spread in
the yearbook

and a full ride to Julliard,
right?

Absolutely... not.

No, I bombed it.
It was really bad.

I didn't even make the chorus.

But I did join the
art department

and we made some great sets

and that's when I found
my love for design.

So you did chase your dream by
following your heart,

not as a dancer but
as an artist.

Proving your grandmother right,

Christmas dreams really do
come true.

Am I right?

I mean, I've never thought
about it like that

but I guess you are.

You know, I love the use of
the watercolors

on the audience,

it provides balance and depth

without drawing your eye away
from the focus

which is the shoes.

It's quite spectacular.

You really sound like you know
what you're talking about.

Yeah, a little.

I had four years at
the Royal College of Art.

Wow! Seems like an odd choice
for a future CEO.

Yup. That's what my dad thought
too, and he was right.

I guess, yeah, sometimes I wish
I took a shot

but I couldn't walk away from
the family business.

But are you happy?

Happy?

It's been a while since someone
asked me that.

Um.

Sure, I'm happy.

Yeah. Of course I'm happy.

Oh, that's--

that's a ringing endorsement for
happiness if I ever heard one.

You're right. Yeah.

Um. All right.

If I'm being honest,

the business is my dad's dream.

Don't get me wrong, I love
the company, and you know,

especially how we bring together
people at Christmas,

especially the kids, you know?

Their excitement is
the best part.

Yeah, but I do wish that
he saw me for me

instead of what he
wants me to be.

Right.

Your window is--

looks awesome.

Oh! It's not even finished yet.

Hey, I know this artist that's
got a background in candy,

loves Christmas,
available on short notice.

Maybe he could help me.

Okay, so, what do you think
so far?

Sorry.

Ah! It looks so good!

Not too bad for
a couple hours work.

Yeah, that was the most fun I've
had working in the

store probably ever.

- Really?
- Yeah.

Do you really have a story for
every one of your

magical Christmas shoes?

Mm-hmm. There's a story
for every one.

Although, I'm not so sure about
the magic.

- You have a lot of them?
- I do.

I have an entire bedroom closet
full of them.

I'd love to see your bedroom.

Your-- I--
Your bedroom closet,

for the shoes and the stories.

The windows, right?
The windows.

I mean, tomorrow Allison and I
were going to go

Christmas tree shopping,

if you want to come and then you
could swing by after

and see the shoes.

Yeah. I'd like that.

Okay.

Okay. Well, goodnight.

Goodnight.

Seriously, it's not like that.

Merry Christmas.

This guy is not Mark.

You can't control everything.

Sometimes you might just catch
some feelings.

Okay, look. This might sounds
crazy but I--

I think there might be something
going on with the shoes

because I-- so, I wore
the bubble-gum ones

and I actually stepped in gum,

and then I wore the tap shoes
meant for chasing my dreams--

And then you found yourself back
into design.

Like I told you, there is no
such thing as a coincidence.

So, tell me, what's the story
behind these boots?

Uh.

I went to the Netherlands to
visit my grandmother

a few years again and--

That's so cute.
Is that a windmill?

Mm-hmm.

It's very Dutch.

And she said it would always
bring me what I want.

So maybe that means finding my
perfect Christmas tree.

Okay, maybe not just a tree,

maybe it'll help you find
something else that you want,

or need.

- Hi.
- Hi.

Congratulations.

You made a Christmas
must-see list.

Looks like your shoes
still got it.

So.

Oh.

Oh. Uh.

My neighbor needs me.
I got to go.

Your phone didn't even ring.

It buzzed. It's on silent.

Yeah, she needs my help.
It's urgent.

You guys are fine, right?

I am if you are.

- Of course.
- Great. Okay.

She's really eager to help her
neighbor, huh?

Yes, that is-- that's Allison,

always eager to help,

even when you don't need her.
- Well then.

All right. Here we are!

You got it?

John:
Yeah, I got it.

Okay, right this way.

If I'd have known I definitely
would have made the case

for a skinnier tree.

Yeah, maybe one that went to
Pilates.

Oh yeah?
Well, maybe the tree's thinking

the same thing about you.

I spin.

Can you make it another 10 feet

or would you like
a glass of water?

Here. I'll take the water.

The cleared out corner with
the stand?

Actually, upstairs,
if you don't mind.

We're at the joking phase,
huh?

There you go.

Thanks.

It looks amazing!

Thank you so much, I really
appreciate this.

No problem.

John:
So.

So.

Do I get to see
the magical Christmas shoes?

The shoes, right.

Okay.

You asked for it.

Tah-dah!

Wow. This is impressive.

Every year, huh?

Every year without fail

and each of them has a note.

Where do we start?

Well, you have to pick one.

Okay.

Nope! Close your eyes.

- Really?
- These are the rules.

Oh my.

I'm like a three-year-old.

Yup. Stop.

I'm in the exact same spot.

Feel better?

- Mm-hmm.
- Okay, good.

I'm going for it.

Oh! Hmm.

Oh! Wow! These are sexy.

Look at these.

I can only imagine the magic you
created in these.

Of course you had to pick
these one first.

"This Christmas take comfort in
grace rather than style."

Yes, Grandma was not kidding.

These are the definition
of comfort.

Hey, I broke my toe that year

and these really killed a lot of
my Christmas looks.

I'm sure you still pulled off
some looks.

Hmm. Well, thank you.

How about your favorite?

Oh, that's hard.
My favorite?

John:
Mm-hmm.

Um.

Mm.

I mean.

Excuse me.

Ready?

Ready.

Are you ready?

Whoa.

Those are very

Santa baby.

By far my favorite.

I can only imagine what kind of
windows these would inspire.

What's the story?

"This Christmas
don't dwell on Mark,

The magic here is a conversation
starter to light a spark."

A minx and a poet.

Well, she is from Amsterdam.

These are brand new.

I know, I've never actually
worn those.

You've never been ice-skating?

Oh, I've been ice-skating,
just not in those.

But it's been a really
long time.

Same for me.

It's like riding a bike,
though, right?

Is it?

How about we go tomorrow night?

No, I'm not in the mood
to break my ankle.

I will not let you fall,
I promise.

We should, uh...

Yeah, the tree.

Yes, I mean, it's not gonna
decorate itself.

Ready for another one?

Indeed.

This is a good one.

Oh, the magical Christmas shoes,
ornament version.

Very nice.

Well, they are my heritage.

It would not be Christmas
without them.

I almost forgot.

It's perfect.

It's a windmill.

Yeah, I saw it at the register,

and I thought immediately
of you.

Uh...

It's Dutch, right?

Yes, yes.

Windmills,
they are definitely Dutch.

Thank you, I love it.

It's gonna look really good
right... there.

Thank you!

Have you always believed
the shoes were magical?

Oh, no, no.

Not all of them have
a happy ending,

which is why my practical side

doesn't let me get carried away
with it.

Well, I see how they inspire
your windows,

and I definitely believe
there's magic in them.

I can see it.

My grandmother would love you.

Yeah, most grandmas do.

You know what I'm thinking?

Hey, maybe next year,

we can package wooden shoes
and candy.

That is a great idea.

And what if we added
little paints,

so that the children,

they could paint their magical
Christmas wishes on them.

I absolutely love it.

Yeah, which means my dad
will hate it.

So, where did you get
your love for art?

My mom.

She'd take me around to see
all the Christmas windows,

and yeah, my favorite ones
were the painted ones.

And so, when I was ten,

I painted all the windows
in our house to surprise her.

Poinsettias were her favorite,

and of course, she loved it.

She cried when we had to take it
down for Easter, but...

Oh!

I love that.

So, is that when you decided
you were an artist?

Yeah, pretty much,

but you know, I always knew
it'd be a pipe dream.

When your last name is Reid,

your candied future is pretty
much written for you.

Not necessarily.

It's your life.

You know, I had to learn
the hard way,

and it's important to take
control.

Right, that's why
you're an accountant?

Absolutely.

I mean, I get to choose
who my clients are,

make my own hours, I can just
do things on my terms.

And you never wanted to do
anything creative?

I mean, I did, and then...

and then, I didn't.

Actually, in my first--
excuse me--

year in college,

I was up for this
prestigious internship

at a high-end design firm.

What happened?

Well, my boyfriend at the time,
Mark...

Oh, Mr. Sexy Boots Mark.

Yes! Mr. Sexy Boots Mark.

He was also applying for it.

And we, um...

we always would work
our presentations together,

but we had very different
styles.

I like to tell a story
through my work.

I feel like it adds
a personal touch to the design.

But Mark, he convinced me
that it wasn't professional.

So, at the last minute,
I changed my entire portfolio,

and at the final meeting,

I marched in there
with my magic Christmas shoes,

determined to be professional.

And I bombed it.

So, you didn't go with your gut,
or stick to your own terms.

Exactly.

And to make matters worse,

Mark, he then used my style
of storytelling design

in his interview,
and he got the internship

and now, he has an illustrious
design career.

So, cheers, Mark.

To Mark, what a great guy.

And that's how I lost my faith

in the fabled magical
Christmas shoes.

So, you stopped doing something
that you love

and you gave up magic
all because of this guy Mark?

No, I...

I mean, I chose to pivot.

I love design,

but I also love a career
that has less heartbreak.

Well, if it wasn't for
this Mark guy,

I would have never met you,

and your shoes.

Well, that is a perk.

It's getting late, isn't it?
I should get going.

Yes, it is.

Well, thank you again.

My pleasure.

Mm.

Okay, good night

Good night.

Night, Noelle.

Good night.

"This Christmas,
go with the flow

and laugh along the way."

Whoa, hey!

What? Ah!

No pouring and texting!

Thank you.

You're all smiles today.

Is a certain candy man making
this Christmas extra sweet?

Gross! Would you listen
to yourself?

Hey, I am an expert in energy,

and I was feeling some serious
vibes from you two last night.

John and I, we are just friends.

Who were you texting?

John.

It is not like that.

He is sending me articles
of our window.

We're in all the holiday
must-see lists.

He is so dreamy.

Any red-blooded woman

would want to unwrap
him Christmas morning.

Would you listen to yourself?

If there's one thing
that Mark did teach me,

it's not to date people
you work with.

He's not your boss.

And more importantly,
he's not Mark--

Mark?

This can't be good.

Hey!

Mark.

What-What are you doing here?

I'm home for Christmas.

You know, seeing the family

and play with the little cousins
and the nephews.

Have you seen the Reid store
window yet?

That thing is amazing!

It's the talk of the town.

And rumor is that...

well, that you're the genius
behind it.

Well, the rumors are true.

Hey, Allison.

Hey, Mark.

It's just for Christmas,
and it's not a big deal.

Ah.

Can, uh, can we chat?

Oh!

Right.

Ahem, what is this,
a peace offering?

I remembered they were your
favorite.

You know, it's Christmas.

Okay, well, the Reid store
window is quite the sensation.

I never know that you were
getting back into design.

I'm not. Why?

Come work for me.

I need a good designer.

I'm serious. My new company
is ready to launch.

Come and have a drink
with me tonight,

and I'll give you the details.

No, I-I have plans.

Cancel them.

This could be a new career
for the both of us.

Thank you, but I have a career.

and I left that silly fantasy

of becoming a designer
a long time ago.

Hey, look,
at least entertain the idea.

Just hear me out
before you say no.

Look, listen.

I know that we have
a rocky past.

That's an understatement.

You deserved that internship,
not me.

Mm-hmm.

So, let me make it right.

Listen, if you hate what I say,

you can throw your drink
in my face.

Oh, can I come? Please?

No, I'll hear him out.

But not tonight.

And you should bring goggles,

because I hear that vodka,
it really stings your eyes.

I heard that, too!

Amazing, well, okay.

We'll set something up
before Christmas.

Well, you ladies have
a good day.

So, was that the angry speech

that you've been rehearsing
all these years?

Funny. No, he just...

He just gets under my skin

and makes me feel
all these feelings.

Allison:
Ew, really?

You know, I never knew what
you saw in him,

not even in high school.

No, not Mark, design.

I mean, it is what I love.

It's what I've always wanted
to do.

And doing Reid's windows,
it reminded me of that.

And now...

Well, your grandma's shoes

did say something about stepping
into your future.

I don't know, I...

Allison:
Or not.

You know what, maybe...
maybe you are right.

Oh?

Okay, so I was running
late this morning

and I just grabbed the first
pair of Christmas shoes

that I could find,

and it just happened to be
these ones.

These are the ones that I wore

when I blew the deal
for the internship,

when I listened to what
Mark said.

Really?

Yes, and the note on them,
it said,

"We hope that people, they see
your genius as much as we do."

And Mark, he just said "genius."

So, I mean, if these shoes
are magical, right,

what if they're also cursed?

Because the last time Mark said
"genius", he stole my design.

Wait, what if the shoes are
trying to correct the past?

I mean, Mark sucks,
but that is a huge opportunity.

I know, I know.
I mean, if he's even serious.

Well, if he's not, when are you
ever gonna get that invitation

to throw a drink
in your ex's face again?

It's so tight!

I don't know if this is
a good idea.

I mean, I haven't skated
in a really long time.

Well, I promise not to let you
fall.

You better not,
because if you do,

I'm just gonna take you down
with me.

Oh, yeah, you promise?

Mm-hm, darn right.

Okay, talk is cheap.

- Ready?
- Yep.

- One?
- One.

Two.

Three!

Oh!

So far, so good.

John?

Hold on, I'm coming.

You have to stand up!

Oh...

Noelle:
Hey!

Wow!

Hi, how's it going?

I thought you said it was just
like riding a bike.

Uh, yeah, I said that?

- Yeah, you did.
- Well, then I lied.

Like, at this pace, it's gonna
take us till next Christmas

to get around the rink.

- Okay.
- Here.

Okay, you got some tips?

- Mm-hmm.
- Here we go.

Okay.

You're squeezing my hand
really tight.

- Just breathe, for starters.
- Okay.

Okay, just kind of try to relax
a little bit.

Hey, what are you --

- Go!
- All right.

Noelle: Fly, baby bird, fly!

Ahh!

I got you, it's all good.

Ah, that was really fun.

Yeah, so smooth.

So, what next?

You want to grab a bite?

Uh...

Actually, I got somewhere to be.

Oh, okay.

Yeah, just here to get some
inspiration for the window,

and we did.

No, it's not like that.

Hey, I'd love to show you
the place

where I spend most of
my free time.

- Now?
- Yeah, now.

Oh!

If you're free.

Sure, yes!

Okay.

All right, guys,
so for today's theme,

we're gonna go with Christmas,

and my friend Noelle here

has a closet filled with magical
Christmas shoes,

and she's going to tell you
all about them.

- I am?
- You are.

I-I am!

Well, um...

Every Christmas, my grandmother,
she sends me a new pair of shoes

and they're always filled
with candies,

and with them,
she writes a message

that says at Christmastime,
they become magic.

Are they really magic?

Well, today I wore a pair
of ice skates

that she gave me
for the first time,

and I didn't fall, so...

Mind you, I also had someone
holding my hand

and that really helped.

Okay, so what you're going to do

is you're gonna paint
your own version

of magical Christmas shoes,

and how they make your holiday
season special, all right?

I'm joining you!

Well, that's beautiful.

There you go, just let it go.

What?

Just let it go!

Oh, that's beautiful.

What inspired this piece?

Let's see, my... my grandmother,

and of course,
my favorite candy.

It's a little bit of an homage
to this great coach

who's even a better art teacher.

Someone that keeps surprising
me.

Well, it's very, very good.

Um, may I?

Sure.

Now, if you just shade it
a little more here,

that'll give it some definition.

Oh, yeah!

See?

Mr. Reid, clean up
on our school floor!

Oh!

Be right back.

Oh, who did this?

All right, I got it.

You are gonna need some more
paint. Want some more green?

You want to do it
or you want me to help you?

Hmm, me.

Girl: Smells good!

Oh, yeah.

You know, it's too bad you
couldn't do this all the time.

I just, I really think
that the world,

it would be a better place
with your art in it.

Well, thank you.

I don't disagree.

I wish I could do it more
at Reid's.

You know, I should thank you
for giving me the opportunity

to infuse a little creativity
into corporate sales.

Have you, have you ever thought
about getting back into design?

Um...

I mean, that's a...

that is a really big risk.

Although I do wish it was
Christmas all year round.

That way, I could always
be decorating.

Yeah.

You know, isn't it funny
how as kids,

we are taught to follow our
dreams, to take big risks.

Then, we become adults
and the real world

just kicks those beliefs
right out of us.

I know, it's so cruel, right?

And those kids today,
I just miss that,

you know, that gumption.

They're just,
they're so fearless.

Yeah, I know.

That's why I love teaching here.

You know, kids have a way
of showing us

how to believe in hope.

Mm.

Hey, let me show you something.

This is my favorite painting.

Oh, wow!

Yeah, when Billy turned this in,
he asked me,

"How do Santa's reindeer fly?"

Big question.

Yeah, I didn't know how
to answer,

and then, out of nowhere,
Georgia pops up

and without missing a beat,
and she says,

"Because they believe they can."

- Oh!
- Right?

She's just...

I know, I totally felt that.

Yeah, maybe that's all it takes.

Belief.

John?

These are really good.

People need to see these.

Oh, I love this!

I can see why this is
your favorite.

John:
Yeah, it's pretty great.

Noelle:
They're all great.

Here we go.

Thank you!

What's that,
someone checking up on you?

No, Allison, she just wants

to borrow some Christmas
decorations for her party.

You... you don't want to go
with me, do you?

It's just,
it's a Christmas party.

Christmas party? Eh...

One condition, you wear
those "Santa Baby" boots.

You know, just for inspiration.

Noelle:
In your dreams.

You really do love candy canes.

I really do.

What's the magic behind
those shoes?

These ones, the message was,

"Christmas brings the sweetest
surprises."

They were packed with
candy canes?

Naturally, they were,

but not as good as Reid's.

I mean, you guys, you really do
make the best.

Yeah, I know.

Hey, we got a minute
before we open.

Can I show you something?

- Yeah.
- Okay.

Did you know that Reid's was
founded on candy canes?

Well, it doesn't surprise me,
but...

Well, it is true.
It's a family recipe.

- My grandfather --
- Thank you.

-- he would hand them out
at Christmas to all the kids

and the demand became so popular
that he founded the store.

- Really?
- Yes.

So, wait a minute, we're --
we're making some?

Definitely. You ready?

Okay!

Here we go, we get the pots.

Uh-huh.

What kind, traditional?

- Yes, please!
- All right.

Can I get you to pour this?

Mm-hmm, okay.

Oh, can you pass me a spatula
and a whisk, please?

Okay.

Pop one in.

Okay, here we go.

And pour.

Looks good to me.

Okay, give it a good stir.

Whisk it up.

This is really fun.

A little elbow grease, okay?
Come on.

Thank you!

- Ready?
- Mm-hmm.

Hey, this is a rite of passage
in my family.

I understand,
I feel very honored.

Excellent, ready to pour?

Okay, cheers.

Ahh!

Listen to it.

That is the sound of Christmas.

Grandpa would be proud.

All right, we get the gloves.

Thank you.

Here you go, put these on.

Let's see.

So, just spread it back
and forth like this.

Then, squish them together,
nice and soft.

Gentle, gentle!

Okay!

They're all so different.

Each one is unique
because they're handmade.

Okay, now we're in
the final stage.

Okay!

This is where we're going
to make the crook.

I'm a little nervous.

Let me see what you got.

- Okay, so...
- Really gentle.

Ah!

Just like Bo Peep.

My first candy cane!

Do I get to keep these?

Of course, yeah. That's your
payment for the windows.

Wow!

Seven a.m. and you've already
got a huge crowd

outside that window,
that's impressive.

Thanks, thanks, Dad.

Um, this is Noelle.

She's the one responsible for
the crowd and the windows.

Nice to meet you.

Very nice job, young lady.

Thank you!

So, what design firm
do you work at?

Oh, I'm-I'm just a CPA.

The design is more of, um,
it's more of a hobby for me.

Arthur: Oh.

Well, I looked at the numbers,

and with a week before
Christmas,

this store is set to outsell
the Times Square location.

What?!

So, it appears you got
your Christmas wish, John.

I hate to admit it, but you
proved me wrong for once.

Store's gonna remain open,

but I need you to keep up
those sales, okay?

Yeah, of course, you got it.

Lovely to meet you.

Uh, you, as well.

Yes!

Oh!

My parents are gonna be
thrilled,

and you know,
if you think about it,

technically I would not
even be here

if it wasn't for your store.

You would not.
It's all come full circle.

Tomorrow at the board meeting,
I'm going to pitch your windows

and I'm going to propose
how a little creativity

can really boost sales.

The presentation?

Yeah, I was going to keep it
a secret, but you know what?

I want to implement your vision
in all of Reid's windows,

with you as the head designer.

Wow, what?

Are you serious?

Yeah.

I mean, don't get me wrong.

I really appreciate your vote
of confidence, but...

John, come on, Christmas is over
in a week,

and there'll be no more
holiday windows.

Yeah, but so what?

We've accomplished bigger things
with less time.

And I was thinking
that you could assume

a more permanent position
beyond Christmas.

Um...

Oh.

Look, I'm just not willing to
throw away a whole career

for a possibility.

I've seen how you light up
when you design.

You cannot deny how good
it feels

to do something that you love.

You've made me believe
in Reid's Candies again,

that it's more than a store,

that it's a place to bring
people together

to celebrate the sweeter things
in life.

Oh, I love this!

I love this... so much,

but I... I don't know.

I... we saved the store.

My parents,
they fell in love here,

and that's why I did
all of this,

because I wanted to keep a part
of their romance alive.

Maybe at first, but art is not
about obligations, right?

It's about your heart.

What's your heart say?

You really think this is
a possibility?

I know it's a possibility.

Okay, fine, fine!

Okay, I'm on board with...

I'm on board with
the Christmas windows.

Hire you?

No, okay, it's not for sure yet.

He still has to convince his dad
and the board.

So, it's, I mean,
it's a longshot at best.

This is huge!

Getting out of your safety zone,
hard hats off!

It is a little crazy, right?

Mm-hmm!

I mean, these shoes,

they're making me take all kinds
of risks, and...

it's really scary.

Noelle, it's great.

Just go for what you love.

Only if it's the right terms.

Allison:
Yeah, yeah, sure, sure, sure.

Do things your way,
but this is it.

Your shoes stepping into
your future with John,

and a career?

You are literally walking
in Christmas magic,

will you just embrace it?

Okay, it's a little weird!

These-these shoes,

they came with a note about
a sweet Christmas surprise.

Can you ask your grandma to add
me to her Christmas shoe list?

I just, I don't want to get
my heart broken again, Allison.

You need to learn to love
like heartbreak doesn't exist.

Maybe you're right.

Mark:
Hey, ladies!

Noelle, oh, I got some big news
to share with you.

Please, you gotta come with me.

Uh, we are working.

I swear, all business.

Please, just come with me.

Oh, please go with him.
He won't leave otherwise.

True. This better be good.

Oh, this is gonna be great.

I will be right back.

We are looking at our future.

Looks pretty bleak.

I just signed the ultra high-end
shoe boutique

Guirlande de Chaussers, and
this is their newest location.

And together, we will be
designing this location

and all of their new stores
in the tristate area

starting in January.

Mark, I mean, I...

This is huge!

This is massive.

You see, I told you I would
make it up to you.

You deserve this, Noelle.

Now, come work for me!

Uh, with me.

Uh...

Mark, this is really...
this is a lot.

This is a lot to process.

It is, it is, you're right,
you're right.

Could you give me an answer
before Christmas?

I-I can give you an answer
before Christmas.

Amazing.

Nice!

I gotta run now, but we will
talk very, very soon, okay?

Mm-hmm.

Yes!

John:
Wow, Santa baby!

I'll be sure to tell Grandma
you like them.

Please do.

Oh, and here are the design
schematics, as promised.

Thank you, thanks for that.

That's great.

Should we go?

Yeah, yeah, of course,
we should.

- Great.
- Right this way.

Oh, wow!

So, this is it!

Hi!

Hey, guys!

Oh, wow, those boots look great.

Thank you, thank you.
It looks amazing in here.

Thanks.

Um, can I talk to you
for a second?

Hey, John.
Uh, here, can you take that?

Help yourself to some drinks.

I just need to steal her
for one minute.

Snacks, anything you want.

Noelle:
Okay, I'm gonna be right back

What are you doing? Allison!

Allison, what is going on?

Okay, don't freak out.

I hate it when you say that.

Mark's here.

What? What is Mark doing here?

Why is he here?

I'm sorry, okay? I'm sorry.

He was in the group text
of old high school friends,

and then before I realized,
it was too late.

And I'm sorry!

I have not told John
about his offer!

I mean, do you think that Mark
is going to go and talk to him?

Mark, pass up an opportunity
to brag? Unlikely.

Okay, okay.

Okay, all we need to do

is we just need to, um, we need
to keep them apart, okay?

We can do that.
I'll take John, you take Mark.

Yeah, may be too late.

This is my fault.

What? How?

Because these boots!

These boots, they're supposed
to be conversation starters,

and look, they're talking!

Right, and now you're
a believer, great.

That is not helping.

Okay, look, I could...
I could create a diversion.

I could light the tree on fire,
maybe?

Something?

No. Look...

obviously, these shoes are
trying to say something, right?

And I just, I need to be clearer
with my intentions.

Exactly, yes!

Like, like Aladdin
and the genie.

What?

Okay.

- Hey!
- Hey.

Sorry about that.

John, I see you met Mark.

Well, hello, don't you look
beautiful?

- Hello.
- Nice to see you.

So, what are we...
what are we talking about?

Oh, we're just talking about
play-off scenarios.

Oh, great!

Football, I love...
I love football.

Mark:
Yeah, you know what, John?

Here, take one of my cards

'cause you never know when
Reid's Candies

is looking for a fresh take.

And hopefully, I'll be printing
some up for you, Noelle.

Hmm?

You have a chance to decide yet?

- Decision?
- Yeah, John, come on.

You got to convince her to come

and work for my new design firm,
okay?

It's the opportunity of
a lifetime!

Sounds promising.

Exactly, but meanwhile
she's got me sweating it

while she's thinking about it.

We just secured a very, very
premium account,

and she's undecided.
Can you believe it?

No, I can't.

Yeah, well, you know,

I'm not gonna let you be the one
to get away twice.

I mean, professionally
this time.

Mark --

I know that we have a past,
okay,

but it's all water under
the bridge.

It is, way under the bridge.

So, John, can you please
convince her to forgive me

so that she doesn't pass up
this dream job?

I'll do my best.

Thank you, man.

I'm gonna go mingle.

Great!

Ah, so that's ex-boyfriend Mark?

I... did not know that he was
going to be here.

I did not know that he offered
you a job.

Honestly, it just happened,

and I never know if I can
take him seriously.

Mark, he's kind of a show-off,
and...

I didn't know I was going
to have competition,

especially with your
ex-boyfriend.

Oh, you don't have any
competition.

I am committed to you.

To, I mean, to Reid's Candies,
obviously!

John: It's okay.

You know what, let's just have
fun tonight, all right?

Yes, please!

John:
Come on!

I had fun tonight.

Yeah, me too.

Uh, Mark wants to take me out
for a client dinner.

He wants to wine and dine me.

You're not gonna go, are you?

Jealous?

I think that he'd be a perfect
gentleman on the first date.

Mm, he's only after one thing.

What's that?

Your cheque book.

Really?

Well, I already have a designer
in mind,

and the second-best will not do.

Oh!

Okay, I will call you tomorrow.

Mm-hmm.

Uh, and hopefully with good
news.

Right!

- Wish me luck.
- Good luck.

Thanks.

- Good night.
- Good night.

These windows, they've created
a social media storm.

As a result,
this stand-alone store

has outperformed our Times
Square location.

We need to capitalize on
this momentum

and create a company-wide
window display.

Let's finish strong
this Christmas,

and implement a plan for every
major holiday next year.

All right, shall we vote?

All for an immediate
Christmas Eve window display?

It's settled.

Good job. Well done, John.

All right,
let's hire a design team ASAP.

John:
I have someone on deck.

Noelle Bailey.

It was her vision that set off
this whole firestorm.

Well, I appreciate her vision
but a business this size

requires a professional team
with experience,

'cause we got to have
a quick turnaround.

Noelle has experience.

Leave this to the professionals,
son.

I'll get our marketing team
started on this.

Meeting adjourned.

John:
Dad?

Dad!

Arthur:
Yeah?

I want you to let me lead
on the windows.

It's my project,
and I want these designs.

Well, it's too late.

We hired a professional firm
the second the meeting was over.

They've already sent over
the prototypes.

So, what do you think?

Come on, look at these.

These lack the character that
Noelle's windows have.

There's no personality.

You see any Christmas spirit?

Look, I don't know how many
times I got to say this to you.

The girl is a hometown
decorator,

and we have got to have a
professional team on this.

And I'll tell you what,

if you want to continue with
this window idea,

then those are my terms.

How do you like that?

You're right, Dad.

We all need to live
by our own terms.

Right.

Thanks for that.

Mr. Reid, marketing needs
the approved prototypes

for the windows.

Um, yeah, they're...

the binder's on the table.

Hello?

Yeah, speaking.

How'd it go?

Hey, um...

They didn't go for it.

No, look, I gave it all I could,

but it's not happening.

That's fine, I...

I really appreciate it.

But you know what,

do not let this make you give up
on your dreams.

You got to be designing,

and, well,
even if it's with Mark.

Oh, no, I don't --

I don't think that I could
ever trust him again.

What did you tell me?
Go with your gut, right?

You're truly an inspiration,
you have to.

Look, I should be thanking you.

Thanking me?

It's not official yet, so I
can't really say too much,

but seeing how you set
your goals

and the way you didn't
compromise on your vision,

well, that's true inspiration.

That's made me rethink
everything.

Wow, I can't wait to hear
all about it.

You'll be the first!

Um, so we're on for cocoa
tomorrow, right?

Absolutely, yes.

All right, I'll see you then.

Taxi!

Oh.

Hi, Grandma!

You must be out Christmas
shopping.

Anyways, just thinking about you
and sending lots of love.

I'll talk to you soon.

- Hey!
- Don't freak out.

I hate it when you say that.

What?

That is your design, right?

The shoes.

But-but he said that they passed
on it.

Well, I guess he used them,
anyway.

Wow.

Oh, and of course,

of course these are the shoes
that I'm wearing, right?

'Cause these are the shoes
I wore when Mark lied to me,

and then, stole my designs,
and then, broke my heart.

And now, John lied to me...

stole my designs...

This is what I was afraid of,
Allison.

What are you doing?

You know what, these shoes,
they're not magic, okay?

They're cursed!

Don't say that, you love
your Christmas shoes!

Not anymore!

Allison: Noelle!

All they've done is cause me
heartache and headache,

and I'm through with them.

Wait, hold on.
Okay, you're making me nervous.

What are you doing?

Take these with you when you go.

And do what with it?

I don't care, I don't care.

You can trash it,
you can donate it, I don't care.

See you tomorrow.

"Every cloud has a silver
lining.

"My memory of you dancing
in my shoes

will always brighten my day."

Okay, fine.

Find me my silver lining.

For you, madame.

Thank you.

Wow, look at those shoes.

Are they part of the Christmas
collection?

Uh, yes, they are.

These are the first shoes
that my grandmother wore

for her first Christmas
in America.

Hmm.

When I was a little girl,
I would teeter around in them,

and then, when I was of age,
she gave them to me.

Wow, that's sweet.

- Isn't it?
- Yeah.

Maybe you should build a window
around them.

Yeah, like, uh...
like a silver bells theme.

Yeah.

So, you gonna take that job
offer from Mark?

I don't know.

You know, fool me once,
it's a risk.

Yeah, no risk, no reward.

Seems to be working for you.

I know, I know, right?

I can't believe how things
turned out.

I am so grateful, and I have you
to thank for the inspiration.

Okay, don't,

because gratitude is not
going to make this better.

Oh, did I do something wrong?

Did you really think that I
wouldn't find out?

But I'm so glad that I'm the
source of inspiration for you.

Yeah, okay, look,
because of you,

I finally have a job
that I'm excited about.

I can finally be creative.

Okay, wait...

So, that's what all this
was about,

is you finding your dream job?

No, no, of course not.
Where are you going?

You know, I'm going --
I'm going home.

Why?

Because I know how this ends.

You get the success,
and I get a broken heart,

and I'm not going to let you
ruin my Christmas.

So, best wishes
with your new life,

and you can stay out of mine.

Oh!

- Oh, hey.
- Oh, no!

Just let me help you.

You know what, don't, okay?

You've done enough.

Oh, man.

Here.

Better to be full of wine,
than despair.

There's not enough wine
in the world for that.

Plus, you know, we do have to go
back to work at some point.

It's not like we haven't
done it before!

So, are you really stepping back
into your safety zone?

I don't know, I don't know,
Allison.

It just, it felt so good

creating all those windows
with John.

You know, it changed me.

But when my last design career
crashed and burned,

I vowed to myself that I would
never, ever again

believe in Christmas magic
and in dreams and relationships.

But you did,
and I'm so glad you did.

Being a dreamer suits you.

It felt like I was being swept
into this...

holiday fantasy.

You know, after all these years,

I was finally stepping
into this Christmas dream

that my grandma,
she believed in so much.

And then, reality set in
and I woke up,

and realized that no, I was just
falling back into old patterns.

Yeah, well, at least you got
some fabulous shoes out of it.

That's a silver lining.

I guess that's true,
if I hadn't asked you

to throw a good portion of them
out last night.

About that...

Stupid...

What are you doing?

No, you didn't!

Look, good or bad,
they shaped your life.

They helped make you into
an amazing woman

and my best friend.

Plus, they're way too
spectacular to trash.

You...

Here is a toast
to spectacular shoes,

and an amazing friend.

Thank you, thank you, thank you.

Well, since we're celebrating,

um, can I try on those vintage
red pumps?

Knock yourself out.

Yes!

Oh, yeah!

You know, you wouldn't be here
if it wasn't for these shoes.

What do you mean?

Ah!

I mean, your grandparents met
because of these shoes.

Look at these!

Nothing can defy these shoes.

They are a confidence-booster,
I'll give them that.

I feel like I can do anything
in these shoes!

That's it.

What?

That is what my grandmother,

she's been trying to tell me
all these years.

It was never about the shoes.

Allison, the magic,
it's inside of us,

and the shoes, they just boost
whatever's there already.

I like that philosophy
much better.

Right?

But what are you
going to do now?

Ugh!

John was right about this place.

This cocoa is delicious.

A little help, please?

Why did you throw it
in the garbage again?

Because I was...
I was mad and impulsive.

How theatrical, I love it.

Ah, bingo!

Here.

Thank you.

What's wrong?

Oh, no.

"The art center's new
executive director."

Huh... well,
that explains things.

Huh.

This is, this is the surprise
that he was talking about.

What have I done?

Allison, how do I fix this?
How do I fix this?

Well, what does your heart
tell you to do?

I think my heart wants John.

And I can't let him go like
this, and I just...

I need to step it up.

Mm-hmm.

Okay, I think I know what to do,
but I'm gonna need your help.

Of course!

Okay.

Okay, I talked to the store
manager

and he agreed to let us have
the show there.

How did you convince him
to do it so early?

I may have told him
that corporate asked me

to throw a going-away party
for John.

Noelle, you lied?
It's Christmas!

Well, I think all this
Christmas spirit

is giving me the confidence
to lie like the Dickens.

Well, confidence is everything.

It's on,
Operation Save Your Man!

Yeah.

Hey, I-I came as soon
as you texted.

Oh!

They told me to wait here, so...

Of course.

Here I am.

Right, I'll...

I'll give you your privacy.

I have a feeling

this isn't going to be
a Merry Christmas for me.

You know that I can't take
your offer,

not after everything
that's happened.

Yeah, well, I had to try.

I do appreciate your offer,
I do.

I just don't want you to hate
me, you know?

Look, I made some mistakes,
and I...

I just never wanted to hurt you,
I hope you know that.

Things happened,

and I just wasn't clever enough
to change the course.

I don't hate you.

I mean, how could I?

That whole situation,
it taught me a lot of lessons.

You deserve the best, Noelle.

Thank you.

I expect big things from you.

Me too.

Me too.

How did you get all of these
paintings here

without him knowing?

Well, I talked to the parent
advisory board,

and they agreed to have them
delivered.

Ahem!

Hi there, sorry to interrupt.

I'm just looking for Mr. Reid?

Do you have an appointment?

Uh, no, I don't.

Oh, it's Christmas Eve, and I
know he wants to leave early.

We could set something up
for after the holidays.

Yeah, that's-that's not
gonna work.

Mr. Reid!

It's Noelle, right?

Yes, good to see you.

Yeah, well,
if you're looking for John,

he doesn't work here anymore.

I'm... I am aware of that.

Um, I'm actually here
to talk to you.

You know, people,
they wake up every day

wanting to change their lives,

to live their passion,

and most people, they don't
follow through with that,

but John, John, he did,

and I really think that you
should be proud of him.

That's a hobby.

This?

This is a legacy.

And with all due respect, sir,

what he is leaving for those
children,

that is going to be John's
legacy.

I...

Did you know that my parents,
they got engaged at your store,

and it changed their lives.

It changed my life,
don't you see?

And what John is doing
for those children,

it's changing their lives.

I mean, it would be so easy
for John just to be safe

and easy here,
but he's not because...

because it's not what makes him
truly happy.

And at the end of the day,
isn't that what's important?

What makes us happy?

I think that you should let him
be that incredible artist

and teacher that he is.

And if you,
if you still have doubts,

maybe this will change
your mind.

Merry Christmas, Mr. Reid.

Okay, I don't want to be greedy,

but if there's any magic
left in you,

please, please, please, please
give me my wish, okay?

Hi! Merry Christmas!

This is such a great turn-out.

Everyone loves your window
display.

Oh, thank you.

Hey, it's gonna be okay.

It's Christmas,
everything will be just fine.

I just, I really think
that I blew it.

What? Do you see these kids?

This is their best Christmas
ever.

Um, he's here.

Well, go to him!

Oh!

- Hi.
- Hi.

- You came.
- Of course.

I got your invitation,
and I can't say no to the kids.

And besides, it's part of
my new job.

Look, John, I didn't know.

I saw Reid's using my ideas
without me, and I...

I just jumped to conclusions.

There's no way that I'd steal
your ideas.

That's-that's not who I am.

I know that, I do, and I...

and I knew it then,
but I just...

I got stuck in the past,
and the fear, and...

I'm so sorry.

It's okay.

I understand.

You do?

Yeah, and I did a little digging
too.

I found out that an assistant
sent your ideas to marketing.

It was just a complete mix-up.

So, before I leave, I will make
sure you're fairly compensated.

Oh, I mean, that's not why...

I'm doing all this.

Why did you do this?

I did it for you.

I mean, I honestly didn't...

I didn't know if you were
going to talk to me again,

and I needed you to know
how much you inspire me.

And...

how you've restored my faith
in magic.

How did I do that?

Well, for starters,
you showed up.

And that made me believe
that all is not lost.

It's not.

Hi, Mr. Reid!

Oh.

We should probably go in.

Yes, yes, we should.

Hey, everybody, look who's here!

Georgia:
Mr. Reid's here!

- Merry Christmas.
- Merry Christmas.

Um, let me take your jacket.

This is amazing.

Thank you!

Are those the shoes
that started it all?

Yes, my grandmother,

she took her first steps
into her new life in these.

And maybe I can, too.

Is there anything I can help
with?

- Uh, Mr. Reid.
- Dad.

This is...

it's maybe better
than I expected.

Yeah, probably record sales.

That's not what I meant.

I meant the kids, and...
and the art.

Son, I am so sorry for the way
I spoke to you.

I just want you to know
that I am so proud of you.

You're living your dream,
and you're happy.

And that's all that really
matters, right?

And you, young lady,
my son was right about you.

Why don't you come and work
for me?

Head designer at all
Reid's locations.

What?

All...

- Really?
- Wow.

Um...

I think I'm ready to step
into my future.

Thank you so much, Mr. Reid.

I love you, Son.

I love you too, Dad.

Ho, ho, ho! Merry Christmas!

You got Santa Claus,
on Christmas Eve?

Hey, anything's possible.

All you have to do is believe.

Okay, come with me.

What?

It's kind of corny, but...

Merry Christmas.

Is that okay?

Yeah, this just makes me really,
really happy,

because it reminds me
that romance

is still very much alive
and well.

Especially at Christmas.