Project Christmas Wish (2020) - full transcript

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♪

♪

Hi!

♪

Mike:
Good morning, Elmhurst!

It's the first of December,
so you know what that means!

It's opening day
of Project Christmas Wish!

And on my show today,
I have Santa's favorite elf

who makes all of Elmhurst's
Christmas wishes come true-



Lucy Keller!

Thank you, Mike,
for that introduction

that sets
impossibly high standards.

But yes, Project
Christmas Wish begins today.

So, come by Be Home Design
to make a wish.

And listeners, remember,

there is no ask too big
for Project Christmas Wish.

That's true.
Because I believe

where there's a wish,
there's a way.

Thanks, Lucy. We'll be back
after these messages.

Uh, new slogan?

Yeah. I'm trying it out. It was
either that or

"Your Christmas wish is my
panic, anxiety, and insomnia."

I thought the first one had
a little more of a ring to it.



Yeah, I agree.

See you later at the store?
- Well, that depends.

Are you gonna bulldoze me

into buying another dozen kids'
Christmas toys this year?

Of course I'm not
going to bulldoze you.

I'm going to guilt you.

- Even better. Yay.
- Merry Christmas, Mike!

- Mike: Merry Christmas!
- (chuckling)

♪

Joan:
Hey!

How'd it go? I've been waiting
to hear your voice.

I appreciate the support,

but the promo doesn't air
until 9:00 AM.

Ah. So, I have some news.

(gasping)
Don't tell me.

You got the gig
for the Victorian on Pine?

You mean we did, but yes.
They called me last night.

The owners wanna
completely redecorate.

It's a huge job!

And speaking of huge jobs,

I did not think you could go
more overboard than last year,

but somehow
you have proved me wrong.

Overboard? This was nothing.

Lucy, I watched you work
on this 24/7 for a week,

barely sleeping.

Which, by the way,
how do you look so well rested?

Oh, you know. Just a potentially
lethal amount of caffeine.

- Hi, girls!
- Hi, Mom.

Hey, Joyce.

Ooh, is that my new dress?

I custom made her
a dress for today.

She's gotta look her best
for the press.

As do you. After all, you are
half of Project Christmas Wish.

Oh, you flatter me.

But I'm an assistant elf
at best.

(giggling)

You don't like it?

Um, it's an elf costume.

You said elf!

No, I said "elf-inspired".

As in a Prada-esque nod
to an elf.

Like a classy elf
out on the town

or a chic elf
off to the board room.

This is more
Christmas in Middle Earth.

But... so appreciated.

And,
of course I'll wear it.

You don't have to.

No,

I'm excited to wear it.
It's...

fun.

Good.

Okay!
I'm off to the shop.

Lots of holiday alterations
to do.

We'll see you girls later.
- All right.

- Bye, Mom!
- Bye.

Wow.

It's...

so...fun!

I guess you can never have
too much Christmas.

I've just had
enough Christmas.

Why is that so terrible?

It's not so terrible, honey.

It's just that it's only
December 1st.

Yeah, I know, and it feels
like the holiday season

will never end.

Lucas, look we know
that you miss Stephanie.

(sighing)

And that just makes
the holidays harder.

But this could be an opportunity
to remember her.

- Mm-hm.
- Keep her close.

And also, Max wants
a real Christmas.

Hi, Grandma. Hi, Grandpa!

Hey! Max-Max! Mmm!

Hey, look what we brought.

Fresh-made doughnuts!

Grandpa even drew
Christmas trees on them for you.

Ooh. Thank you!

Hey! No, Ma'am.

(whispering)
I'll save you one.

Good morning, Daddy.

Good morning. Come here.

(wheezing voice)
Big hug!

- Too big.
- (chuckling)

Daddy, can we get
our Christmas tree today?

Um, you know,

I think the Christmas tree lot
might be a little busy today.

Why don't we...
why don't we wait a bit?

Why don't you start
your breakfast, here you go,

and I'll be right over there.

And next time, ask me
before bringing doughnuts

for Max's breakfast.

It's the holidays!

Mike on Radio:
I have Santa's favorite elf

who makes all of Elmhurst's
Christmas wishes come true.

Lucy: Thank you, Mike. Come by
Be Home Design to make a wish.

(music playing)

(radio shutting off)

Daddy,
can we go downtown today?

Sure.

What?

You have doughnut sugar
on your lip.

Is it right there?

Okay, you can have one doughnut,
but finish your eggs first.

Reporter: So, tell us
about your Christmas wish.

Well, last year,
Project Christmas Wish

brought me Elvis here,
which changed my life.

'Cause of Elvis
I feel like myself again.

Reporter:
That's amazing.

So, what will you wish for
this year?

Woman:
Well, you know,

I actually don't think
I need anything...

Mike.

Here to make Christmas wishes
come true again?

Oh, my goodness.

Each ornament
was made by a child

with a hope for a special toy
beneath their Christmas tree.

That's a lot of toys!

That's a lot
of happy children.

Hmm.

- Thank you.
- Okay.

The shopping list is inside

and I'll see you
tomorrow morning on air.

Great. Wonderful. Thank you.
Merry Christmas.

- Merry Christmas!
- (chuckling) Yeah. Right.

- Can we get a few words?
- No comment.

Oh! Hi, Cullen. Don't your trees
look great in here?

- Where's Joan?
- She's around here somewhere.

Why, what's going on?

There's something important
I need to...

Hi, honey!

Hi! Darling.

- Hi.
- Hi.

I have some trees to sell.

Okay.

Your boyfriend's being weird.

Yeah. Yeah,
that's part of his charm.

Lucy,
time for a quick interview?

Oh, great. Lemme just
find my mom to join us.

Perfect.

♪

Daddy, can we go in there?

Man in background:
Merry Christmas.

I have a surprise for you,
but you can't see.

So, can you go over there?

Sure, just don't talk
to strangers.

And be safe, okay?

Okay, Dad.

It's "Daddy".
When did I become Dad?

Excuse me.
Are you in charge?

Ooh, I don't know
if I'm in charge,

but I oversee
Project Christmas Wish.

Do you wanna make a wish?

(giggling)
Okay.

Just think about
what would make you happier

than anything else
in the world.

Write it on this card, pop it in
the box, and we'll do the rest.

- Thank you!
- You're welcome.

Can I help you with something?

Uh, no thank you.

Actually, yes!

Um, what's up
with all the horses?

Oh. It's the
Elmhurst Christmas Horse.

It's a town tradition.

And why is it a horse?

Because it's Elmhurst's mascot.

Why is that?

Because it is.

So, basically because
there's no actual reason,

theoretically, Elmhurst's mascot
can be any animal?

- No.
- Well, yes, yes.

- No, it couldn't.
- But it could.

Not really.

You see where I'm going
with this?

No, I don't. It's a horse.
It's a Christmas horse.

Okay.

Couldn't be any other animal.
It's a Christmas horse.

So, may I interest you
in purchasing

one of these Christmas horses

for what I can only assume is
your beloved ornament collection

with which you so wholeheartedly
celebrate the holidays?

No thank you, Mrs. Claus.
I'm good.

I'm a fun elf!

Not so fun to me.

Ready to go, sweetie?

Do I look
like Mrs. Claus to you?

Joyce:
Look, Mr. Mittens!

It's the most successful
Project Christmas Wish yet.

It may be.

First let's see
how many of these wishes

we can make come true.

All right. I'll sort, you make a
list, we'll divide and conquer?

Yes.
(chuckling)

Okay.

"Dear Project Christmas Wish,
Christmas means home

"and it's not quite home
without family.

"So, what would truly
make this Christmas for me

"is for my son
to come home from base."

- Who's it from?
- Cheryl Wallace.

Her son Parker is stationed
at a base in San Diego.

I know last year flights were
too expensive to bring him home.

Then why didn't she wish
last year?

I don't know.

Every year she runs
the wreath-making event

to benefit Project Christmas
Wish but never actually wishes.

Then let's make this a priority.

(music playing on radio)

♪ Hap-hap-hap-happy new year

Here you go.

♪ Hap-hap-hap-happy new year

♪ Hap-hap-hap-happy new year
to me ♪

Mike on radio:
Just a couple more carols

to get your morning
started right...

Thank you, sweetheart.

...and then I'll have Lucy
on my show

with a Project
Christmas Wish update.

Grandpa?

Can you please take me
to the radio station?

Why, honey?

'Cause the Project Christmas
Wish people are there,

and I have a wish
I wanna make.

Please?
I'd be super happy.

And it's all I want
for Christmas.

Okay, Max-Max.

- Really?
- Really?

Why don't you go grab your
jacket and meet me by the door?

I remember don't think Lucas
will agree to this.

Well then,
maybe we don't ask him.

I know, I know.

But look how happy Max is.

Isn't that
what really matters?

It's time for Lucas
to get on board. It's Christmas.

And how can he say no
to Max's wish?

(mouthing words)
Come on!

I think he'll assume this is for
the best and he'll come around.

Yep.

- Like this one?
- Remix!

- This is a good one!
- (Mike humming)

(jazzy Christmas song playing)

Grandpa:
Excuse me. Hi.

Mike:
Looks like we got some guests!

Grandpa, that's her.
The elf from the store!

I remember you.

Did you make your
Project Christmas Wish?

Not yet.

But...I'm here now!

Why don't you just tell Lucy
your wish on air?

Really? Can I?

It's okay with me if it's okay
with your grandpa.

You're gonna be on the radio!

Lucy:
All right, you ready?

Come on. Grab that chair.

Mike on radio: This is
Morning Mike coming to you

with a special
surprise guest here

to make an in-person
Project Christmas Wish.

Welcome, Max.

Max:
Hi.

Tell us about your wish.

- Um...
- You're doing great.

Well, my family used to have
the best Christmases.

We'd decorate the tree and bake
gingerbread and go ice skating.

It was perfect.

And my dad was always happy.

But then, three years ago,
my mom died.

And now we don't do
any of that,

and my dad
seems kinda sad.

So, my Project Christmas Wish

is for a Christmas
like we used to have,

with my mom.

So my dad will be happy again.

Your wish is my command.

Mike: Sounds like we have
our Project Christmas Wish

of the season! Boom!

More coming up
right after this.

Make sure you guys
stay tuned.

This is bad.

Lucy:
That was fun!

I'm so glad you came.

Wait a second,
what are you doing here?

I'm Project Christmas Wish.

What are you doing here?

I'm Max's dad, the parent that
should've been asked permission

before granting Max's wish.

I'm sorry, I assumed
she had your permission.

To broadcast our personal lives
all over the radio?

No, she did not.

Would you excuse us
just a moment?

Lucas.

This could be a good thing.

Oh, yeah, to be
the focal point of town gossip

could be a great thing.

Hey, don't flatter yourself,
buddy.

Regardless of what Max said
on air, this isn't about you.

It's about Max.

Let's go home and talk, okay?

I am so sorry
about all this.

I did not see it
going this way.

It's okay, I understand.

That was...
a surprising wish.

Plus, he lost someone.
That's really hard.

It is. Especially
this time of year.

But I do think
he'll come around.

Lucas: Muffin, why didn't you
tell me any of this?

Because I know
it makes you sad,

and I wanted you
to be happy.

And I just...

I want Christmas
like it used to be.

I know.

I know.

Me too.

And he comes
storming up screaming.

Well, maybe not screaming,
per se,

but his tone
was quite severe.

So, are you gonna pick a new
Big wish of the season?

Of course not.
I'm doubling down.

(chuckling)
That's much more in character.

I already made
a whole plan.

Operation Christ-Max Wish.

Goal-
make a Christmas magic again.

How'd you do this already?

What's that look?

I know what
this means to you,

and I know why
it means it to you.

But, Max isn't you.

Of course. I know that.

I know you've had Max's
best interests at heart,

but you should've
asked me first.

We know. We messed up.

"We"?

But really, we're so sorry.

So,
what are you gonna do?

What can I do?

I'm between a holiday
and a hard place.

I mean,
Max is beyond excited

and I would be
the biggest Grinch of all time

if I took that away from her.

Plus the town is already
buzzing about "Christmas Dad".

Christmas Dad?

Oh, yeah.

That's what Elmhurst
has nicknamed

the new focal point
of their gossip.

- Well, it's catchy.
- (giggling)

How can I say no?

But also,
doesn't it seem kinda weird

to have a stranger celebrate
Christmas with my daughter?

And especially that stranger?

Hon,
Lucy isn't a stranger.

Yeah, in the five years
we've lived here,

we've gotten to know her well.

She's a town gem!

And maybe exactly
what you two need right now.

How do you figure?

Because I know Max's wish
was for a Christmas

like she used to have,
but maybe,

instead of trying
to relive what used to be,

Lucy could help you
create something new.

(sighing)

Maybe. Maybe.

Thank you.

Back for the horse ornament?

I'm back to say I am sorry
for how I reacted.

And you're super excited to make
Max's Christmas wish come true?

No. No, it's, uh,
you know, it's complicated.

I understand.

But it's Christmas,

and Christmas should be
a relief from the complicated,

especially for a kid.

I know you and Max
lost someone,

and remembering is hard.

Believe me,
forgetting is harder.

Okay. Fine.

You can do one
Christmas activity with Max.

That should scratch the itch.

How's that gonna
scratch the itch?

Plus, she's the
Christmas wish of the season.

But you're the boss.

So, I assume you don't have
a Christmas tree yet?

Nope.

Okay. Well then,

meet me at the lot on Lowell
Street tomorrow afternoon.

By the way, did you start
this Christmas Dad thing?

What Christmas Dad thing?

Cullen:
Is Joan here?

Good morning, Cullen.

No, she's not here yet.
She's still on-site

but she should be...

Actually,
I'm here to see you.

I wanna make
a Christmas wish.

(gasping)
Mm! Do tell!

I wanna propose to Joan.

Yes! Oh, how exciting!

How can I help?

Well, believe it or not,

I'm not the most romantic.

So, I was hoping
you had some ideas?

I have a million ideas!

Oh! Hi.

What's going on?
- I...

Well...

I was just telling Cullen

that Christmas Dad
came around

and he's allowing me
one Christmas activity.

So, Cullen
has graciously offered

to gift Max a tree
she picks out from his lot.

Well, Cullen is very sweet
and generous.

And one holiday activity
is progress.

Well, I see it more as a jumping
off point for negotiations.

You think he'll budge?

We'll see.

All I know is I have
a can-do holiday spirit

and too much caffeine and sugar
running through my veins,

so what is that spell?

Christmas magic!
- Catastrophe!

The answer was...
it was Christmas magic.

Christmas magic.

- I don't know about that.
- Okay. I'll see you later.

See ya, honey.

(mouthing words)

(giggling)

- Hi, Max!
- This is awesome.

Can I run ahead and look?

Uh, yeah. Just make sure
I can see you, okay?

Pick us out a good tree!

I'm trusting you.

(sighing)

So, you recently moved here?

Yeah, about six months ago
from Boston.

I grew up there.
Max was born there.

My parents just retired here
and I wanted to be close.

Plus, I can work remotely.
- Oh, what do you do?

- Software engineer.
- That explains it.

Explains what?

The sense I got
of a logic-based brain.

Because of
the Christmas horse?

Never mind.
So, any hobbies or interests?

(sighing)

Mainly just trying to juggle.

Stop it! You juggle?

I mean juggle life.

Being a dad, work,
personal time.

Oh. That's a lot less fun
than actual juggling,

but definitely
more meaningful.

What about you?
Are you from here?

Yep. I grew up here,
left for college,

moved to Austin, and worked
for a children's non-profit,

then came back home.

Oh, is that when you started
Project Christmas Wish?

Yeah.
I'm not just the founder.

I am also a member.

My mom helps,
but it's a full-time job.

Granting wishes

and preparing for the Christmas
Carnival Fundraiser.

It's a big,
two-day event we host

that funds
Project Christmas Wish.

It's the two days
before Christmas Eve.

You'll have to bring Max.

As the wish of the season,

she'll be the Queen
of the Carnival.

Yeah. We'll see.
(sniffing)

Cullen:
Hey, Luce!

- Hey!
- Hey!

Oh!
You must be Christmas Dad!

You know what? You are
in great hands with Lucy.

She's actually helping

make my Christmas wish
come true too.

And your tree's on me.

Oh, that's... you know what,
that's not necessary.

Come on. Of course it is...

Christmas Dad.

Well, when you...
when you put it like that.

Thank you.

I found our tree!

Can we take it home
and decorate it with Lucy?

Please?

This is from
where we used to live.

(gasping)
That's pretty!

Do you miss Boston?

I miss my friends.

Have you made
any friends here?

Everyone in my class
already has friends.

Ready?

All right.
Here you go.

That's for you.
Hold on tight.

(grunting)

You are getting heavy!

Next year you are gonna be
lifting me.

- (giggling)
- There you go.

Shall we plug it in?

All right, here we go.

(gasping)

Oh!

So pretty!

I love it!

So, what are we gonna do next?

Bake gingerbread?
Go ice skating?

Ah.

Guess it didn't
scratch that itch.

This is gonna end, is it?

Little over two weeks
until Christmas Eve

and then I promise it ends.

(Lucas sighing)

But until then...

Project Christ-Max Wish.

A detailed, no-fail plan

for the perfect Christmas
for you both.

A Christmas where
what used to be

meets what could be.

Okay. Fine.

That's the spirit...
Christmas Dad.

So, what do you know
about wreath making?

Nothing.
But I'm a quick study.

Shouldn't we be focusing
on wishes

instead of the fundraiser?

We still have two weeks
until the carnival.

I know. But I told Max she was
carnival guest of honor.

I just wanna make sure
it's extra special.

But you're right, we should be
focusing on wishes.

Any updates?

Well, we have all these
broad wishes this season.

Folks wanting friends
to spend the holidays with,

and wishes for love.

And I'm not sure
how to grant those.

Well, you could
start dating again.

Oh, are we talking
about people dating again?

And what's happening with
bringing Cheryl's son Parker

home from base?
- (chuckling)

It's happening.
I put the word out

and people started
donating airline points.

And then Josie
from the travel agency

pulled some strings
for discounted airfare.

Oh, love it.

Well, I wrangled a dozen tablets
for the elementary school.

That was principal
Wilson's wish.

And Jessica Aleman
wished for a car.

Taking the bus to work
was adding hours to her commute

so Teaghan Franks
is gifting an old car

she doesn't use any more.

Yay, us!

And um, how's our big
wish of the season?

Well, it's just ramping up,

but Max is really
enjoying it.

And she's just adorable.
The sweetest.

Her father,
on the other hand...

I've met
prickly people before,

but he's a walking cactus.

- It's just a Christmas tree.
- Maybe.

Or maybe it's you two
bouncing back.

Angela:
Celebrating Christmas,

building a home,

finding love again?

It's okay
to be happy again, Lucas.

Maybe it's time
to start to date.

Daddy, are you gonna date?

What? No.
(scoffing)

No, Grandpa didn't say date,
he said...

- Mate!
- That's not better.

- I meant hate.
- Making it worse.

I meant enervate. Situate.
Hibernate.

That's all I got.

Max,
please go get your shoes.

We're gonna go
to Lucy's soon, okay?

Really? Mate?

That was truly
a legendary accomplishment

in making a bad situation worse.

Enh. We all have
our strengths.

- (Angela chuckling)
- You are ridiculous.

- Lucas: Excited?
- Max: I'm very excited.

(doorbell ringing)

Welcome.

Come on in!

You really like Christmas!

That just become clear now?

(cat meowing)

You have a cat?

Meet Mr. Mittens.

Your cat's name
is Mr. Mittens?

No, it's Spike.

He is vicious,
so I'd keep my distance.

Mm-hm.

Are you ready to bake cookies?

So, tomorrow is
the wreath decorating event

I told you about,

and I invited my friends
and their daughter Sonia

who I think you'll really like.

And I thought we could bring
cookies to break the ice.

There's no better way to make
a friend than with a cookie.

♪ Jingle bells, jiggle bells

♪ Jingle all the way

Mr. Mittens and I
have a lot of time on our hands.

I thought this should fit you.

It's perfect.

I didn't know if you had
any food allergies

so I found a gluten-free,
soy-free, egg-free,

dairy-free, nut-free,
of course,

Christmas cookie recipe!

Ah. Just like grandma
used to bake.

Lucy: Max, you wanna start
on the dry ingredients?

All right, let's make
these cookies very sweet.

Are there five?
There should be five.

Max:
There's four.

Lucy: What we'll do is we'll put
a little bit like that.

(inhaling)

Muffin...

What is it?

Mommy and me
used to do this together.

(sighing)

You know, Max,

my dad passed away
when I was about your age.

Really?

How'd you stop feeling sad?

That's a really good question.

Can I think about it a little
and get back to you?

Okay.

(sighing)

She's eight years old,

they've only been here
for about a month,

and, oh...
I think I see them.

Hi, Max!

Hi!

I think you're
going to love Sonia.

Come on.

Lucas, these are Sonia's
parents, Melanie and Nolan.

Max, this is Sonia.
- Hi.

Hi!

Did you know that you both love
unicorns and rainbows?

Talk amongst yourselves.

Sonia, do you wanna
make a wreath?

Sure!

Do you want a cookie?

Uh-oh. Poor Sonia's about
to eat one of our cookies.

Did you try 'em?
- I did.

What did you think?

I think they tasted like a
delicious Christmas cookie,

if you removed all the
ingredients making it delicious

and replaced them with cardboard
and oat milk?

You're really selling it.

Little secret- before I came,
I filled up on egg nog

at the cart
near Be Home Design.

- Hmm.
- You have to try it.

It's a town seasonal treasure.

Seems like everything in
Elmhurst is a seasonal treasure.

Does that mean
you might be coming around

to the whole holiday spirit?

Unlikely.

I think I'm already pushing
my limits being Christmas Dad.

(laughing)

But be honest with me.

Are you the source
of my nickname?

- I might've mentioned it...
- Oh, my...

And it happened to take off,
but come on!

It's cool. It makes you sound
like a superhero.

(chuckling)

You can do
heroic holiday things

while wearing underwear
outside your pants.

Well...

any excuse for that, right?

You just made a joke!

- Okay.
- (laughing)

Ooh, I hear the angels singing!

I'll have you know
that I can be quite charming

and delightfully hilarious.

I will take your word for it.

Max:
Daddy! Come see my wreath!

Time to wreath.

Oh! Uh, Morning Mike
is wondering

if Max can come
on air tomorrow.

We usually track the big
wish of the season on his show

to keep the town involved.

If Max wants to do it,
then it's okay with me.

Wow.

Sweetie.
Sweetie, it's time.

Cheryl, we were hoping you might
be able to record a short spot

about the wreath making event.

Why you started it,
what it means to you?

- Of course I can!
- Great.

- Just right over here.
- Be right back.

Just keep goin'.

This is Cheryl Wallace.

Tell us what's going on
here today.

Well, um,
making homemade wreaths

used to be something I did
with my son Parker

and now I host the event

not because all the proceeds
go to a great cause,

Project Christmas Wish,

but also because
wherever Parker is in the world,

it makes me feel
like I'm close to him.

Tell us what you wished for
this year.

Well, it's always...

(crowd gasping)

Oh my...

Oh, Parker,
I can't believe it!

(laughing and crying)

(crowd reactions)

You made my Christmas.

Thank you...

Oh, thank you.

(applause)

Mike on air:
Max, fill us in.

How is your Project
Christmas Wish going?

Max:
Amazing.

We decorated the whole house
and made cookies,

and decorated wreaths,

and maybe I made
some new friends.

But I wanna change my wish.

You do? Why?

Well,
I thought having a Christmas

like we used to have with my mom
would make my dad happy.

But now I realize what will
actually make him happy,

and so I have a new wish.

I want my dad
to be in love again.

Uh-oh.

Mike: You heard it here first,
listeners.

Christmas Dad's available
and on the market.

Keep it locked right here.

Christmas carols
comin' up after this.

Hi.
(awkward chuckling)

Nothin' to see here.
Just keep it movin'.

♪

Hey!
Where you comin' back from?

Oh, just making dreams come true
left and right, no big deal.

So, what's next
on the wish list?

Peace on Earth?
Two front teeth?

Mistletoe kisses?

Mmm!

Speaking of,
what did you decide

about Max's wish
for her dad?

Ooh, that's a tough one.

I understand Max
wanting her dad to have love,

but Lucas lost someone and
I don't want to be intrusive.

You don't? Since when?

Ha-ha.

But then Max
had a great idea.

She and Sonia became friends
at Carol's wreath making event.

So she thought, what if
we do something like that

but for adults?

And we had a bunch of Project
Christmas Wishes for love

and I thought,
what if we host a mixer?

That takes the focus
off of Lucas.

Right! Because wishes plus
fundraiser plus working here

means you have
too much free time

and need something else
to take on?

Save me,
I can't help myself!

(giggling)

Uh...

I have a sudden craving
for egg nog.

Grab me one?

Oh, of course!

Hi.

Why are we re-enacting
Spy Vs Spy?

Look, it always seems like
I'm with Joan or you are,

and I wanna get working
on the proposal.

So, I was hoping to do it
over the holidays

while Joan's parents
are back in town.

Perfect!
Because I have an idea.

Okay, imagine this.
Most romantic proposal ever.

I like the sound of that.

You propose at the
Christmas Carnival Fundraiser

when I invite Joan to the stage
to thank her as a sponsor.

So, I propose in front
of the whole town.

You propose in front
of her whole community,

everyone who loves her.
Plus, the decorated stage

will make a super cute backdrop
for proposal pics.

Okay...

Okay, so we'll decorate the
stage and have carols playing

and snow falling
and the whole town there

to witness you
getting down on one knee,

professing eternal love.

What do you think?
Doesn't that sound...

Completely over-the-top.

Cullen,
you're the first to admit

you're not the most romantic,
so maybe take my lead on this?

You do know I have a crippling
fear of public speaking.

Great, so I'll start
working on specifics,

we can reconvene to discuss,

but I have to get going.
I promised Joan an egg nog.

Santa:
Ho, ho, ho!

I recognize that mane.

- Hello.
- Hello.

How are you doing?

Oh, you mean since
my eight-year-old daughter

once more broadcast my personal
life to the entire town?

The upside is instead of being
Christmas Dad,

I am now Eligible in Elmhurst.
Did you start that one too?

I have a knack
for catchy nicknames.

Hey, you're good at it.

Is Max around?

No, Sonia's mom
took the girls ice skating.

Sonia and Max
did become fast friends!

Unicorns and rainbows
for the win.

Oh, I'm glad
I bumped into you

because, inspired
by Max's new wish,

we are hosting
a singles' mixer.

Max told me about it.
I'm, uh, not so sure.

Hi, I'll do a small egg nog,
please,

and whatever
the lady will have.

Oh, you don't
need to get my drink.

I'm also ordering
for Joan.

It is the least I can do.

I mean, for all the attention
you've gotten me.

Okay.

I will have one small
egg nog for Joan,

and I would like to get
one large egg nog

with extra whipped cream,
extra chocolate syrup,

and crushed peppermint on top,
please.

What?

You're, uh...like a child.

I will take that
as the compliment

you did not intend it to be.

Actually,
it was a compliment.

Ho, ho, ho!

- For you.
- Thank you.

Ho, ho, ho!

So, explain something to me.

You work at Be Home Design.
- Yes.

My best friend Joan
is an interior designer,

and most of the year I assist
her and run the showroom.

But, come December,

I focus on the store's
holiday display

and Project Christmas Wish,

which is my real love.

I've been doing it for a decade
and building it ever since.

How did it start?

It's kind of a long story.

Well, I have all the time
in the world if you do.

Okay. Do you wanna sit?

Love to.

I mentioned my dad passed away
when I was young.

Yeah, that's really tough.

It happened
right before the holidays.

And, my mom
was looking for work

but we were really
stretching a dollar.

Hmm.

There was too much month at
the end of the money, you know.

Anyway, I...

I knew that Santa
would come for me,

but I wasn't so sure
that we'd have enough money

for my mom
or the rest of it,

like the tree
or the stocking stuffers,

or a real Christmas Eve dinner.

It was a really hard time.

Then the day before
Christmas Eve,

the doorbell rang

and I opened it to find...
a tree.

And all these gifts.

And stocking stuffers,

and bags of groceries.

And a card from
Santa's Little Helpers.

The town did it?

I still don't know
who or how,

but Elmhurst came together

to make my Christmas wish
come true.

That's amazing.

So, that is why I started
Project Christmas Wish,

to return the favor.

But to clarify,

I didn't start
Project Christmas Wish

because I felt like
I needed to repay a debt.

It's more just that I believe
in the power of a wish,

and I believe
you're never given a wish

without being given the ability
to make it come true.

I know that about you.

I should, uh, get back
to the store.

Yes.

Thank you very much
for the egg nog.

My pleasure.

You know, Lucy...

what about you?

What about me?

What's your wish?

You look surprised.

'Cause no one's asked me that
in a really long time.

Well, I hope you ask yourself,

because if anyone's wish
deserves to come true,

it's yours.

Mike:
Good afternoon, Elmhurst.

Back on my show today is
everyone's favorite

Christmas elf, Lucy Keller!

Here with a Project
Christmas Wish update.

We've got a lot of wishes
from Elmhurst residents

looking for friends
to spend the holidays with.

So, if you're in the market
for a new BFF,

then post on our website.

Or give us a call!
We'll be taking callers.

Speaking of which,

coming up
right after the break,

we're gonna have a caller that's
wondering why Lucy has yet

to make their Project Christmas
Wish come true yet.

Thanks for that, Mike.

And also stay tuned to hear how
Mike has so generously offered

to buy a dozen more children

the Christmas gift
of their dreams.

Can we convince Mike
to make it two dozen?

I need your help, callers.

Ring-a-ling-a-ling.

Cut. What?!

Merry Christmas, Mike.

Merry Christmas, Lucy.
You're killin' me over here!

♪

What is all this?

Hanukkah!

Sonia celebrates Hanukkah

and invited me to join.

So, Grandma and Grandpa
offered to do it here

while we set up for the mixer.
- Fun!

What are you guys doing here?

Well, we came for lunch
and then we stayed

for Max guilting us
into helping decorate.

Not that I'm complaining.
There are fresh homemade latkes.

Mm-hm.

Speaking of which,

could you grab me a latke?

Sure, hon.

I wanna catch up
on the proposal.

What, about eight days?

Well, we're going to do the
proposal on the second night

so technically nine,

and don't worry,
I've got it all under control.

Are you sure?

Because I was thinking we could
do something simpler?

(whispering)
No! I've already got it handled.

I've hired the violinist.

What violinist?
- For the carols

playing in the background.
You want romantic, right?

This is romantic
as it gets!

Lucy...

What's goin' on?

Hey, Lucas!

Have you met Joan yet?

Um, I have in passing, but it's
nice to properly meet you.

You too.

She's heard
so much about you.

Really?

On... the radio.

- Go eat your latke.
- Okay.

Daddy, Lucy! Look.

It's a friendship bracelet.

Sonia made it for me
for Hanukkah.

That is so cool.
I want one just like that.

Maybe you should wish for it.

- Ooh!
- Hmm.

(chuckling)

Come on, Max!

She is so happy.

Thank you.

I'm sorry, what was that?

Can you repeat that?
- (chuckling)

So mature!

Thank you,
Project Christmas Wish.

Was that so hard?

Yeah!
It felt a little taxing.

Ugh.

Should we tackle these lights?

Yeah.

I think Max might've gone
a little overboard.

Where do you think
she learned that one from?

Just sayin'.

So, did you give
any more thought to your wish?

Oh, I did, actually.

And I realized I have
everything I want.

A loving community,

Project Christmas Wish,

a stable job
that pays the bills.

Why would I ask for more?

I think if someone else
asked you that,

you would respond by saying

that they deserve
to ask for everything.

You oddly know me very well.

Well, we've been spending
a lot of time together.

So, do you know whether
you'll be going to the mixer?

Hmm.

Well, you throwing it
at the diner

was an ingenious way
to force my hand...

(giggling)

...but I'm still not sure.

What about you? Are you going?

I'm hosting it.

Well, what I mean is
are you not just the founder

but also a member?

Ooh.

If you're asking
if I'm single,

then yes, I am.

I'm actually divorced.

It's been a few years.

I met him in Austin
and we moved back here.

Do you mind if I ask
what happened?

He had this
best female friend,

a childhood friend.

And I used to always joke
that they'd be perfect together.

But they assured me

that they were just
best friends.

And then somewhere
along the way,

they became more,
and now they're married.

That's rough.

It was rough.

It was a loss.
A loss of love,

a loss of dreams,

a loss of a whole... life
I thought I was going to live.

I get loss.

What was your wife like?

She was, uh,

so many things.

Reserved and shy,

but she was also
so hilarious.

Once you got to know her,

brilliant and kind.

When we met it was like
lightning struck.

I know the feeling.

Do you think
it'll ever strike again?

I don't know.

I don't know.
What do you think?

I asked you first.

Um, you know,
I was told that lightning

doesn't strike
the same spot twice.

Right?

What about you?

Well, I'm not looking
to fly a kite attached to a key

any time soon.
- Good.

(chuckling)

So that wouldn't
be your wish?

Oh, you're pushing
this wish thing kinda hard.

Okay, I guess
if I had to make a wish,

I'd say that...

I'm so grateful
for my job at the store,

but also,

it's Joan's passion.
Not mine.

I have tons
of non-profit experience

and Project Christmas Wish
is what I live for.

I would love to make it
a year-round thing.

A real non-profit.

I feel like it's the one thing
I have to give.

No. No way.

What you have to give is you,
and that's very special.

Project Christmas Wish
is just how you give it.

So, if that's what you wanna do,
why don't you just do it?

Oh, I barely cover
wish expenses as it is.

You know, someone
very persuasive once told me

that no one is given a wish

without being given
the power to make it come true.

Hm.

That's a very smart person.

I think so.

(sighing)

Just not enough funding.

(door opening)
Joyce: Hello!

I'm in here.

Just popping by
on my way home.

Wanted to see what
you were doing for dinner.

Oh. I'm heading out
on a little wish business.

I'm going over to Lucas's
to make a gingerbread house

with Max like the ones
Dad used to make for me.

Wow!

I haven't heard you talk
about that in a long time.

I thought maybe you forgot.

Think maybe
I was trying to forget.

Like I believed somehow that
would make missing him easier.

A little bit ago, Max asked me
how I stopped feeling sad.

I didn't know how to answer.

I didn't think I had tried
to stop feeling sad.

But then I realized how often
I push memories of Dad away,

or...how especially
this time of year

I keep every minute
jam-packed with wishes

or carnival
or a million other things,

like if I stay busy enough,

somehow the sadness
won't creep in.

But it doesn't work
like that.

And I don't wanna
do it anymore.

I'm so proud of you.

(doorbell ringing)

Both:
Come in!

I set up everything we need
for our gingerbread house.

Oh, thank you!

But we're actually
going to make

a different kind
of gingerbread house.

Do you still have
those moving boxes?

- Moving boxes?
- Trust me.

♪ I feel it in my fingers

♪ I feel it in my toes

♪ Christmas is all around me

♪ And so the feeling grows

I think this is
some of my finest work.

♪ It's written in the wind

♪ It's everywhere I go

♪ So if you
really love Christmas ♪

♪ Come on and let it snow

It's awesome!

Let's go in!

(phone vibrating)
Grandpa's calling.

I'll be right back.

Thought you'd never ask.

♪ Christmas is all around me

- After you.
- Merci.

(giggling)

♪ And so the feeling grows

Oh, wow!

This is pretty cozy.

We should hang stockings
and build a Christmas tree

and put some gifts
underneath it.

Yeah?

Oh, I just remembered.

Merry Christmas, Lucy.

You didn't have to do that!

But I'm glad you did.

(giggling)

Now we have matching ones!

Thank you!

I love it!

And thank you very much

for building
this gingerbread house with me.

I used to do this
with my dad.

Hey, Max.

Remember when you asked me
how I stopped feeling sad?

Yeah.

Well, I gave it
a lot of thought,

and I think everyone

would answer that question
differently

but for me, the answer

is that you don't wanna try
to stop feeling sad.

Sadness is part of life.

And we need the sadness

because it makes the joy
that much more joyful.

But we just have
to keep our hearts open.

Okay?

Okay. Thanks, Lucy.

Oh. I almost forgot.

I have something
for you two,

but it's mainly
for your dad.

(chuckling)

The infamous
Elmhurst Christmas horse!

(chuckling)

I mean, I still
don't understand this

because of my
logic-based brain,

but I definitely
appreciate it.

I'll see you tomorrow to help
finish setting up for the mixer.

Oh, you don't have to do that.

But I want to.

It's part of my wish.

Okay, see ya later.

What?

Don't you wanna make
my Christmas wish come true?

(sighing)

Hey, Lucy!

I'll see you at the mixer.

See you tomorrow.

(Inhaling)

You happy now?

I know you have
your hands full,

so I went ahead with
the community matching wish.

I've already set up ten people
with Christmas Eve dinners.

Ooh!

By the way, six days

until Christmas Eve,
so we've gotta set the menu!

Adding it to my scroll
of a to-do list.

We finished arranging
all the snacks.

Anything else we can do?

No, thank you so much.

You've done
more than enough.

You could
say a little prayer

that people actually
show up tonight?

You know Daddy will be here.

Aha.

(chuckling)
Okay, Max-Max. Let's head home.

Have fun tonight!

Thank you, Max.

(Angela giggling)

Okay, I think
we're just about done here.

We should go get dressed.

Speaking of dress,

I made you
an early Christmas present.

(quietly)
Uh-oh.

I was going for strong,

independent elf
getting back out there.

You nailed it.

Thank you, Mom. I love it.

Okay.
Should we go get dolled up

and I'll meet you back here?

Mom.

You want me
to have love again, right?

I want that for you too.

I know.

It's just...

is this really
how I'm gonna meet someone?

Over cheese dip
and awkward conversation.

Maybe. Maybe not.

But let's at least
stay open to it.

Okay?

Okay, hold still.

What am I,
in the seventh grade?

Are you my chaperone, Mom?

I'm just making sure

everything goes off
without a hitch.

I'm also making sure
that maybe you're okay.

I think I'm okay!

- Yeah?
- Yeah.

I mean, I'm nervous
and I feel a bit rusty and...

I don't know if I'm ready, but...
- (laughing)

Here we go. Right?

You look very handsome.

Thanks, Mom.

- You did your tie really good.
- Thanks.

(soft music playing)

(clearing throat)

(whispering)
Yeah? Go on.

You know, I was hoping

you were gonna bring out
your fun elf costume again.

(giggling)

But this is so much better.

You look gorgeous.

Thank you.

- Cheers.
- Cheers.

Well done on the event.

Thank you.

- Shall we?
- Sure.

(sighing)

We're not really doing
much mixing.

I'm okay with that.

So am I.

Oh, I was meaning to tell you,

I ran the numbers

on making Project Christmas Wish
a year-round thing.

Although, I guess technically
Christmas is just December

so the rest of the year
I would just be a stranger

meddling in people's affairs.

Dream job!

(chuckling)

That's your dream job!
Come on.

Well, kinda, yeah.

Unfortunately,
it's just not possible.

What happened to where there's
a wish, there's a way?

Doesn't apply this time.

♪ Bells will be ringing

I never asked!

♪ The glad, glad news

How about you?
What's your wish?

♪ Oh, what a Christmas

Right now, my wish
is to dance with you.

♪ To have the blues

Would you like
to make my wish come true?

♪ My baby's gone

I mean, it's kinda my job.

♪ I have no friends

♪ To wish my greetings

♪ Once again

♪ Ooh, ooh

♪ Choirs will be singing

♪ Silent Night

♪ Oh, Christmas carols

♪ By candlelight

♪ Please,
come home for Christmas ♪

♪ Please, come home
for Christmas ♪

♪ If not for Christmas

♪ By New Year's night

Would you mind if I joined
Project Christmas Wish?

♪ You'll never more roam

Please.

♪ Christmas and New Year's

♪ Will find you a home

♪ There'll be no more sorrow

♪ No grief or pain

♪ 'Cause I'll be happy

♪ That it's Christmas
once again ♪

Mike on air:
And we're back with Lucy

and Project Christmas Wish
updates.

Lucy:
Good news.

Mary Kay is out of the hospital
and thanks everyone

for their visits and meals...

I will never tire of hearing
your voice on the radio.

Ugh. Hearing my own voice
is like nails on a chalkboard.

I can't wait
until Christmas is over.

(gasping)

Gasp.

I didn't mean that. Don't ever
tell anyone I said that.

Okay.

But back on the topic...

(clearing throat)

Your dance with Lucas?

It was just a dance.

Maybe a friendly dance?

Maybe he was just thanking me
for helping him with Max.

A fruit basket is a thank you.
A dance is romance.

And stop denying it.

You and Lucas have stars
beaming out of your eyes

every time you look
at each other.

You're like
cartoon characters.

Oh. That explains why my stomach
feels like an accordion.

You mean butterflies?

Enjoy it.

What's wrong?

It's Cullen.

He's withdrawn and secretive
and he's always running off.

I'm just...

wondering...
is he avoiding me?

Does he...
wanna break up?

What? No, of course not!

Then what's going on with him?

I'm sure whatever it is,
you'll find out soon enough.

But I have to get going.

I have to go set up
for the fundraiser.

(inhaling)

All my friends are weird.

Cullen,
whatever you're doing, stop.

Please, try to act normal

if that's at all
in your wheelhouse.

Oh.

This is Lucy, by the way.
Bye!

(sighing)

(doorbell ringing)

- Hey!
- Hello!

(chuckling)
Hi, honey.

Hi, Mom. Good morning.

We brought
fresh-made doughnuts.

Agh, sorry.
We should've asked first.

Hey, it's fine. It is fine.
It is the holidays, right?

Why don't you take those
to the kitchen

and put 'em on a plate,
sweetheart?

(satisfied sighing)

(chuckling)
Whoa!

Wow! That's so...

Uh, over-the-top?

Yeah, that is her middle name.

Max and I made it with Lucy.

Ah. Seems like you two have been
spending a lot of time

with Lucy.

Yeah.
Yeah, well there's Max's wish.

Plus we're becoming friends.

Hmm.

And, yeah.
I think there's something there.

And Max absolutely loves her.

(whispering) You know,
but then it kinda feels

like we're forgetting
about Stephanie.

And I thought the whole point
of Max's wish

was to remember her,
not replace her.

Lucas, honey.

Stephanie was her mother.

No one can replace her.

Max:
Come eat!

- (Lucas chuckling)
- Max: Lucy!

(laughing)

Hello!

Ooh, look what I have here.

Both:
Bling!

(giggling)

- What is this?
- It's for the carnival games.

Daddy and I made it.

It's pin the tail...
on the Christmas horse!

Aw, that's great!

She did all of it.

Thank you.
- Also Lucy,

you know how you said I'll be
the queen of the carnival?

Mm-hm?

Does that mean
I can make a speech?

Oh!

Oh, are you asking my permission
this time?

Very thoughtful.
(chuckling)

You know,
if it's okay with Lucy,

it's okay with me.

(mouthing word)

Yes!

You wanna bring that
over here?

Sure. By the way,
did you find out

why Elmhurst's mascot
is a horse?

Not yet, but it's the next thing
on my to do list after sleep.

Yes.

Can I put you to work?

Actually, I'm busy.

As the newest member
of Project Christmas Wish,

I, uh, got something
that I'm working on.

Ooh! That's excited.
What is it?

Just official wish business.

If it's official, you should
probably run it by me.

Let me rephrase.

Secret wish business.

You'll find out. Be patient.

Oh. See...

I'm not really known
for my patience.

(chuckling)

I know.

Come over for pizza tonight?

Sure.

- (giggling)
- Whoa!

So, did I say
that I couldn't juggle?

'Cause, I don't know,
I kinda...

do a little juggling.

You stinker!

Now we need hot chocolate
to dip our snow people in.

It's a good try
but it's bedtime.

Bedtime is not part of my
Project Christmas Wish.

Well done, kiddo!

It's a good try, but no.
So, say good night to Lucy.

Good night.

(giggling)

Hey.

You don't have to go.

I'll just be like,
ten or 15 minutes.

Okay. I'll stay.

Oh, she went out like a light!

Lucy?

♪

I see you found the fire pit.
- I found it.

Just in case you're cold.

It feels really nice
to just sit.

Oh, I forgot to tell you,

I did some Elmhurst
horse mascot research.

Ooh, please tell me it's
an incredibly romantic story?

So, it turns out,

Elmhurst's founding father,

he rode his horse
across the entire country

and he was looking
for the love of his life

that he had seen
in a dream.

- Ah!
- But meanwhile,

Elmhurst's founding mother
was riding her own horse

across the country,

looking for
the love of her life,

that only she had seen
in a dream.

Oh!

And fate would have it

that their paths crossed
right here in Elmhurst,

whereupon laying eyes on
each other for the first time,

they ran in slow motion
through a field of wildflowers

into each other's arms.

(laughing)

Way to toy with my emotions!

I'm sorry.
The truth isn't that excited.

There just used to be
a lot of wild horses here.

- Oh.
- Yeah.

That's substantially
less romantic.

I know.

So, the horse mystery
is solved, but...

I couldn't find
an explanation

for the Elmhurst
Christmas horse.

I made it up.

I just combined
my two favorite things-

Elmhurst and Christmas
and added a catchy nickname.

And it stuck!

You and your nicknames!

(laughing)

You are so beautiful.

Can I kiss you?

♪

(whispering)
I'm sorry.

I... uh...

I should go.

Well, you live here.
I'll go.

(sighing)

(movie m)

Mm.

Pretty romantic stuff,
Mr. Mittens.

At least we have each other.

(meowing)

Thanks for that.

(door opening)
Joyce: Hello!

You're not dressed yet?

The fundraiser starts
in an hour!

Let me help you with that.

Lucy!

Sorry.

No!

I made this
for the carnival volunteers.

- But I need it.
- Honey!

What are you doin'?

Trying to eat an entire yule log
for breakfast.

How does it seem
like I'm doing?

Just call Lucas!

No!

I'm not calling him.

He's the one
that freaked out, not me.

You know,
this is a lot for him.

And I know you can empathize.

I definitely empathize.

But also,
I don't wanna fall for someone

who's in love
with someone else.

I've already done that.

It's easy to move old wounds
onto new people,

but try not to shut down,
okay?

(crowd chatter, music)

Hey, Cullen.

Hi, Lucy. Question.

Why was a snow machine
delivered to the tree lot today?

Oh good, it arrived.

Well,
just in case it doesn't snow

during the proposal tomorrow.

We have to have snow.

I don't know.
It just doesn't feel right.

You said
you wanted romantic.

I meant romantic
for me and Joan,

not for a steamy
romance novel.

Hi, you two!

- I'm gonna go see Santa.
- Okay.

Do you see what I mean?

I think he wants to break up.

No. I don't...

I'm gonna go find my parents,
okay?

Oh, boy.

Lucy!

The queen of the carnival
has arrived.

We're going to take
our photo with Santa!

Come be in it!

No, honey,
that's a family photo.

Why don't you take
Grandma and Grandpa

and go wait in line up there,
okay? I'll be there in a minute.

Hi.

Hi.

Listen, I'm sorry
for how I reacted,

and for not reaching out
to you.

(inhaling)

It's, uh,
it's complicated.

I know,

but I think this
is supposed to be a relief

from the complicated.

Yeah, I wish it could be.

I really do.

Because I have
a lot of feelings for you.

I just don't know
if I'm ready,

or if I'll ever be ready.

Oh.

Okay.

I can't just...

wait around for you
to figure that out, Lucas.

You...

I know you're afraid.
So am I. But...

I'm a human being.
I have emotions,

and I can't just
give you my heart

and hope that one day
maybe you'll do the same.

I have to protect myself.

(sighing)

It has been so wonderful,

spending this time
with you and Max.

You made my Christmas.

But?

I think we just let ourselves
get swept away.

You're not ready and
I don't wanna get hurt again.

We should just be friends, okay?

Max:
Daddy!

They're waiting for you.

Okay.

(exhaling)

Mom,

and Martha,
what are you doing here?

You've adopted me
for Christmas!

I was one of those wishes

for friends
to spend Christmas with.

And I promise to repay your
kindness in homemade shortbread.

Ooh!

Martha's gonna join us
for Christmas Eve dinner.

Oh! Your shortbread
and your company.

Merry Christmas to us.

Love.

What's wrong?

I, uh,
should go do my rounds.

But the holiday punch
is delicious.

You two should go
grab a glass.

Does it have rum in it?

- It better!
- (chuckling)

You've been awfully quiet.

Something going on?

Well,

I think I ended things
with Lucy.

What?

Why'd you do that?

Well, based upon your reaction,
because I'm an idiot.

Obviously.

Son.

I guess...

it's like sometimes
when I'm with Lucy,

I feel like everything
is perfectly right.

Like lightning struck again.

And then I just start
to feel guilty.

Like I'm betraying Stephanie.

I'm just afraid
that I'm gonna forget her.

You could never forget her.

Lucas,
where there's deep grief,

there was great love.

It may feel like grief
is the last way

that we can love someone
we've lost, but it's not.

Love doesn't end.

It just changes form.

And Stephanie and Lucy are
two entirely different loves.

Lucas:
Hey, Muffin, it's time for bed!

(clearing throat)

Knock-knock.

Max:
Come in.

Okay. Oh.

Max, what's going on?

I know you and Lucy
got into a fight.

Where did you hear that?

Grandma and Grandpa
were talking about it.

Lucy and I, we did not
get into a fight, honey.

We just...

we might not see her around
as much in the future.

But I love Lucy,
and I'll miss her!

I know.
I'll miss her too.

But we don't have to be sad
about it, okay?

'Cause we're gonna see her
around town all the time.

Plus, we made
her Christmas wish come true.

What wish?

You know, the big surprise.

Daddy,
that wasn't her real wish.

(chatter, cheering)

♪

(grunting)

Wow.

What are you doing?

Uh...

I'm sorry,
is that a snow machine?

Uh, no.

I mean...

Yes? I mean...

Cullen,
what is going on with you?

Are you breaking up with me?

What?

No, of course not!

Okay. Then why
are you being so weird?

I'm being weird
because I love you.

That doesn't really explain it.

And I wanna marry you.

That's why I've been off.

Because I asked Lucy
to help me plan out

this big,
romantic proposal

and it totally
got out of hand.

As everything with Lucy does.

I learned that.

So,
what I'm trying to say is...

you're my soul mate.

And you know we're lifers,

so, you wanna
make it official?

Yes! Yes, of course!

(chuckling)

I love you.
- I love you.

Lucas:
Oh. Shoot.

Hey.

Sorry, was I
interrupting something?

Yeah, a little.

- Yeah.
- I'm sorry.

If you're looking for Lucy,
she's in there.

But it might be best
to give her some space?

Yes, I understand
she needs some space.

But also, I could really
use your help.

Really important.

Honey, talk to me.

I'm fine. Really.

I mean, focus on the positive,
right?

It's our best Project
Christmas Wish ever,

most successful fundraiser.

What more could I ask for?

Except that's the problem.
Now I wanna ask for everything.

You know,
after the divorce,

I just wanted to forget.

About the heartbreak,
the loss.

But most of all, I wanted
to forget about the love.

And I did forget.

I forgot how good it can be.

And Lucas reminded me of that.

He reminded me that I do
want love in my life,

and that I should ask for it.

I should ask for everything.

So...

yes, things with Lucas didn't
work out how I had hoped...

..but some good came from it.

I love you so much.

I love you too, Mom.

(sighing)
I should get to the stage

to make sure Cullen has
everything set up

for the proposal.

I'll pack up
and meet you there.

Okay.

All good? Have you linked up
with the violinist?

Okay.

Hey, perfect timing!

Are you ready
for your big speech?

Kind of.
(nervous chuckling)

You're gonna be great.

Where's your dad?

Um, he'll be here later.

Okay. Let's go.

Hello, everyone.

This is Max,

our big Project Christmas Wish
recipient of the year,

and she has a few words
to share.

(applause)

Um, hi. I'm Max.

And I just wanna say
thank you to everyone

for helping make my Project
Christmas Wish come true.

But actually,
my wish didn't really come true

because I've learned that
sometimes we wish for one thing

but really want something else.

Like how I wished for
a Christmas like it used to,

but what I really wanted
was to not feel sad anymore.

But now I'm glad that my wish
didn't come true,

'cause now I know that being sad
sometimes is a part of it.

It's an important part,

because it makes
the happy times,

like right now,

even more happy.

And so, thank you.
Merry Christmas.

(mouthing words)

(applause)

And Lucy,
can you join us please?

(mouthing words)

Please, Lucy?

Ooh, what is it?

It's a gift,
from the whole town.

So you can do Project
Christmas Wish all year round.

What?

It's a charter for your
first year of Project Wish.

That's what we called it.

It's the support you need to set
it up as a non-profit, run it,

and do what you love full-time,
all year round.

(whispering)
Mom.

I can't believe you did this!

I didn't.

Lucas did.

Oh. No, no, no-no, not yet.
Not yet.

No, now is the perfect time.

Cullen did something
equally romantic

but just a little more us.

(violinist playing Silent Night)

(laughing)

What is this?

It's your real wish.

What are you doing?
Why do you have a horse?

It's a Christmas horse.

I can see that,
but why is it here?

Because I feel like
it's what you would've done.

Go overboard.

And it's my way of saying

that I wanna go overboard
with you.

I mean, in moderation?

That's so sweet.

But, I'm not actually
keeping the horse, am I?

(whispering)
This isn't about the horse.

Lucy, I'm really sorry
that I hurt you.

And I get that you're scared.
I'm scared too.

But I think
if we've been lucky enough

to get struck
by lightning twice,

let's take it.

Burns and all.

♪

(laughing)

I knew that snow machine
was clutch.

Actually,
the machine didn't work.

♪

What are you smiling about
back there?

I'm thinking about my Project
Christmas Wish for next year.

Uh-oh.

(laughing)

Come here.

It's a perfect night.

♪