Right in Front of Me (2021) - full transcript

♪ Gotta run with the wind ♪

♪ Feel the light on my skin ♪

♪ You gotta know
where I'm going ♪

♪ To love where I am right now ♪

♪ The sky is open ♪

♪ Gimme that, gimme that
gimme that, hey ♪

♪ Hey! ♪

♪ Gimme that ooh ♪

♪ Gimme that, gimme that
gimme that ooh-la-la ♪

♪ 'Cause it feels so good ♪

♪ Yeah, it feels so good... ♪



♪ Like the whole wide world... ♪

Thank you.

♪ ...is my neighborhood ♪

♪ We keep on whistlin'
the way we should like... ♪

♪ 'Cause it feels so... ♪

♪ It feels so good ♪

♪ Oh-oh-oh-oh-oh ♪

♪ Oh-oh-oh-oh ♪

♪ Oh-oh-oh-oh ♪

♪ It feels so... ♪

♪ It feels so good ♪

Good morning!

Good morning.

- Your coffee.
- Mm. Thank you.



Mm-hmm.

Oh, wow.

Are we having a client meeting?

No. That new breakfast place
opened up on Beverly.

I figured it was

our civic duty
to try everything.

Yes, we should definitely
do our part.

So, I was just
going through the voicemails...

Let me guess.

How many people are looking
for a wedding planner?

About half.

Maybe I need a new slogan...

"Carly Mason, Bridal Stylist...

I just do the clothes part."

Or...

you put yourself out there more.

Become the face
of your own brand.

Then there's no question
what you do.

Jen, we've been through this
a hundred times.

People hire me

because I don't seek out
the spotlight

and make it about me.

See, I'm like...

a Bridal Ninja.

But you could be
a Bridal Samurai.

Well, I generally try
to avoid swords.

And hey.

We're booked up
for the next year,

so I must be doing
something right.

Ooh, Sydney.

Say hi to Sydney.

Hey, Sydney.

Hi.

So I'm hearing rumors

that Kira McCabe

is getting married in Mexico
next weekend.

Would you happen to know
anything about that?

I'm really
not at liberty to say.

But you know
I'm her biggest fan.

So is Liam going to be

the photographer at the wedding?

I think so.

Yeah.

It's fine.
We're professionals.

You know what you need?

A spa weekend at the lodge
with your best friend.

I am talking unlimited,
deeply-discounted pampering,

courtesy of the general manager.

I would love that,

but I have a wedding party
to dress every weekend

for at least the next year.

Come on, Carly.

Just take the break.

You know you deserve it.

Oh, hey, Syd, I have to go.

I have another call coming in,

and I really need to get that.

Is it Kira McCabe?
Tell her I said hi.

Bye!

Bye!

Hi, Kira!

Hey, Carly,
so something's changed.

Okay.

So Kira just got

the biggest leading role
of her career,

but they start shooting
in Bulgaria on Saturday.

She's moving up
the entire wedding

by three days.

So we only have
two days to prep?

Mm-hmm.

I'll be flying down tomorrow
with all the wedding clothes.

Oh, it's so beautiful.

All right.

Everything's in place.
It's almost time.

Let's get your bridal party
dressed first,

and then we can focus
on the star of the show.

Can I talk to you for a second?

Yeah. Sure, Kira.

Is everything okay?
Are you feeling nervous?

Oh, no! I'm fantastic.
The dress is perfect.

I couldn't be happier.

I sense a "but"...

Remember how my mom insisted
on getting her own dress?

Mm-hmm?

Well, she got it.

And she hates it.

I just want her to be happy
and enjoy herself.

She means everything to me.

I wouldn't have any of this
without her.

You're a wonderful daughter, Kira.

And I had a feeling

your mom wasn't feeling
confident about her dress,

so I brought along
a little something...

Oh!

It's absolutely perfect.

I love it!

Look how happy she looks.

- I can't thank you enough.
- It's my pleasure.

Everyone in the bridal party
should feel beautiful.

We scoured every store
in Los Angeles.

Where did you find it?

Oh, I designed it.

Yeah, and I had
my tailor in the city make it.

I didn't realize
you did couture.

Well, I don't.

It was just a special project
for one of my favorite clients.

Well, you should.

Thank you.

That's very kind of you,

but what I do for now
is all I need.

You made today perfect.

The wedding party
looks incredible, Carly.

And so do you.

Thanks.

Well, looks like
we have the entire weekend free,

and it's paid for.

You want to stay and hang out?

You can't be serious.

You broke up with me, remember?

Well, if you aren't
staying here,

what are you going to do?

I'm taking a break.

- Hi.
- Hey.

Reservation for Carly Mason.

Oh, we've been expecting you.

Sydney's so glad
you decided to come.

I am, too.

What is this?

Filipino Fusion.

Peking Duck-filled Empanadas,

with a fresh
papaya-chili dipping sauce.

No.

It's just an appetizer item
for the bar menu.

I've been perfecting the recipe
for months.

Here, try it.

Special-menu items

are the purview
of the Chef de Cuisine.

Oh, look.

That's me.

Edward.

You act like I'm a...

line cook.

I'm a chef, just like you.

A chef, yes.

The chef in charge? No.

I just think
if we edge-up the menu a little,

bring in
some more fusion cuisine,

we can bring in
more clientele to the lodge

as a destination for foodies.

I think my Michelin Star

is quite enough
to get "foodies" in the door.

With all due respect,
that was 25 years ago.

A lot's changed since...

Why are we even
talking about this?

If I'm not mistaken,
you have a wedding to cater,

which, if I'm not mistaken,
is your actual job here.

You said
"If I'm not mistaken" twice.

That's because
I'm very much not.

Mistaken.

Hey...

I just made these killer
Fusion Empanadas Peking Duck.

I'm dyin' to find out
what people think.

Maybe just offer them up
as a free sample?

Did Chef Edward
give you the okay?

Why wouldn't he?

That's not an answer.

Okay.

- You're welcome.
- Thank you.

I'm so excited!

We should totally get facials.

Right?

Here you go.

Cucumber-basil martini, and...

we are offering

complimentary samples

of Chef Nick's
Peking Duck Empanadas

with a papaya-chili
dipping sauce,

if you're interested.

Yeah, that sounds amazing.
Thank you.

There you go. Enjoy.

Thanks.

Is everything okay?

I'm so sorry. It...

I think something's
kind of off with these.

Oh, I'm terribly sorry.

Hi...

Hi.

Can I help you?

I'm the chef.

Nick Rivera.

And, uh...

I made the bad empanada.

I didn't say it was bad.

Well, you sent it back.

I'm sorry.

I didn't mean to insult you.

It just... it wasn't for me.

All right.

The thing is, um...

The thing is...

This dish is supposed to be
my signature appetizer,

and so if there's something
specifically wrong with it,

I really need to know...

what it is.

Specifically.

Okay,

well, if you must know,

it sort of just had
an odd bitter taste to it.

No, there's nothing bitter
in any of the ingredients.

I don't know what to tell you.
It was bitter.

Mm... hmm...

I'm so sorry.

Um, I'll be right back.

You don't have to.
You don't... Okay.

Jackie?

From Tiburon College?

It's Carly. Mason.

We were on
the same dorm-room floor.

Of course!

How are you?

- I'm...
- I'm great.

Wow.

It's so funny running into
somebody from school.

I haven't even been back here
since we graduated.

Well, seems like

everyone from our dorm floor
is here for the wedding.

Oh? Wedding?

Jason and Andrea.
That's why you're here, right?

Oh, that's where
I recognize them from!

It's Andrea and Lily.

So you're not here
for the wedding?

No...

Oh, well, you gotta come by
and say hi.

Oh, no, no.

I don't want to intrude.

And I'm waiting
for my friend, Sydney.

Do you remember her?

She was my roommate.

Yeah, she runs this place now.

Oh, wow, good for her.

This place is...

spectacular.

Isn't it?

Well, you go.
Have a great weekend.

Thanks. You too.

Bye.

Okay...

I know what happened.

One of our kitchen staff used
the wrong knife for onions.

The same knife
that was used for horseradish.

That's why it was so bitter.

Well, there you go.
That makes perfect sense.

I'm glad you solved the mystery.

So... here you go.

It's okay.

I really... I wasn't even hungry.

I won't be able to rest

unless I know

that you know

what it's supposed
to taste like.

Look, I know I may seem
a little obsessive...

Mm.

It's just...

this dish is...

it's a part of my culture.

My history.

And...

when I serve my version

of these traditional
Filipino recipes,

it's kind of like
I'm putting myself out there.

Yeah, okay.

Well, I appreciate
how hard that can be.

Yeah...

so just one bite.

Okay.

That is good. Mm.

Phew. Thank you.

Mm.

Okay.

Why don't you leave me to it,

and I'll report back
if anything changes.

Okay.

Good.

- Hello.
- Hi.

Oh, you're a guest
at the wedding?

No, actually, but I know them.

We were in the same dorm
at Tiburon College,

and most of them
actually grew up around here.

But you didn't get an invite?

Ouch.

I wasn't really
a part of their group.

Mostly because

I was always working
to pay my way through school.

Didn't really give me
much time for a social life.

Yeah...

I believe that.

That's an expensive school.

I had a partial scholarship.

And my parents
did the best they could.

But, you know,

honestly, I think my mom

talked me into
going to that school

just so she could
tell her friends

that her daughter went

to the "fancy school"
in the hills.

The classic "live vicariously
through your kid" technique.

Your parents weren't like that?

You know "helicopter parents"?

Yeah, mine were like...

an entire fleet.

My parents are very disappointed

that my white coat says "Chef"
instead of "Doctor".

Oh...

yeah, that's tough.

Yeah.

Wow. How did we go
from empanadas to group therapy?

I don't know.

Carly Mason?

Matt.

Matt!

Hi.

Are you here for the wedding?

No. No. I'm just...

here.

I would love to catch up.

Yeah, yeah. Sure.

Yeah.

Ex-boyfriend?

No.

Just a friend from college.

But you wanted to date him.

Okay, yeah, fine.

We were supposed to go out
right before graduation.

But we never got a chance to.

Why not?

Just bad timing.

I had a last-minute internship.

He had a job interview
in New York.

It just didn't happen.

Can I give you some free advice?

I'm good.

Just don't act so nervous.

Yeah.

Play it cool.

What part of "I'm good"
were you unclear on?

Best of luck.

Okay.

Carly!

I can't believe
you're actually here!

I can't believe

you didn't tell me about

the little "college reunion"
that's happening this weekend.

Oh...

Am I the only person here
not going to this wedding?

Aside from the staff?
Pretty much, yeah.

Seriously?

Yeah. Crazy coincidence, right?

I had no idea
it was that Andrea and Jason

until everyone started
showing up this morning.

No. Way.

Is that Matt Harper?

Yeah, I guess so.

This just got good!

Wait!

Where are you going?

- Go talk to him!
- I don't think so.

Are you kidding me?

How many times
have you wondered about him?

Or asked yourself,
like, "What if?"

What if you went on that date?

What if this is
your second chance?

What if this is fate?

Okay, Syd, I came to see you,

not go back in time.

Anyway, I highly doubt
he's single.

Oh, please hold.

He is so single.

He's with his friends!

We were friends with them, too.

Friend-ly.
There's a difference.

Yeah.

Sometimes, I feel like
we worked so hard in college,

that maybe we kind of missed out
on all the fun.

Well, I don't regret
how hard we worked at all.

And it was worth it.

Look at us now!

Good point.
We are pretty fabulous.

Yes, we are.

But I just feel like
you're really gonna regret

not seeing if there's still
a spark with Matt Harper.

I don't want to have to be on
for an entire weekend

on just a "what if."

You don't have to be on.
Just be yourself.

Okay.

No one is their real selves

at the beginning
of a relationship.

Do you really think that?

I know it!

But it doesn't matter,

because all I want to do
for the next four days...

is relax.

It's going to be okay.

It's not going to be okay!

I thought letting you pick
your own pink dresses

would be cool,

and that way,

you guys could actually
really wear them again.

Why didn't I realize

they'd be
opposite shades of pink!

Yeah, but it was really nice
of you to let us pick our own.

We're really sorry, Andy.

We should have coordinated.

Yeah, we should have.

It's not your fault.
It's mine.

I just wanted to be different.

Now it doesn't even look like

you guys are part of
the same wedding party.

I should help her.

You don't have to.
You're on vacation.

No, it's okay.
I know what to do.

I'll see you later, okay?

Hi.

I'm so sorry to intrude,

but I overheard your problem,

and I think I can help you.

- Really?
- Really.

It's what I do for a living.

I don't know
if you remember me...

Carly!

Of course I remember you.

Jackie said you were here
this weekend.

You didn't say
that she was a wedding planner!

I didn't know she was.

- Actually, I'm...
- I'm not.

I'm a bridal stylist.

I just do the clothes.

Help me.

I got you.

She dresses so many celebs.

Don't worry.

Okay.

So I called my vendor
in San Francisco,

and he had exactly
what I was looking for.

I found a pale-pink pastel
satin ribbon

with a little bit of greenery

to tie in the shades
of both the dresses.

Now, both these dresses
would look wonderful

with the ribbon
tied around their waists.

And we could wrap your ribbon
around your bouquet stem,

and the guys could have
matching pocket squares.

Henry at Barris Fabrics
is expecting your call.

He could have all of this done
by tomorrow.

If that works for you.

Are you kidding?

- It's perfect!
- Great.

Do you know
what this kind of reminds me of?

How Kira McCabe's wedding party
looked two days ago!

I just saw the photos online.

Yeah.

Actually, that's
what made me think about it.

Oh, you saw the photos, too?

Well, I actually
did the styling.

What?

And then I came here
for a little R&R

when we were done.

Oh, my gosh.

I can't believe
you actually helped me

when you're supposed to be
on vacation.

Thank you so much.

It's my pleasure.

I hope you have
a wonderful wedding on Sunday.

Will you still be here?

Yeah...

Oh, then you have to come!

I insist.

So? I'm dying.
What happened?

Well...

I solved
her bridesmaid dress problem,

and she invited me
to the wedding.

See?

Now you're not
the only person here not going!

Problem solved!

Technically,
I didn't give her an answer.

Hey, Syd.

Here's the finalized
"happy hour" menu.

Thanks.

It's great.

Oh...

Nick, this is my best friend
from college and beyond,

Carly Mason.

Carly, this is Chef Nick.

He does all our event catering.

- We met.
- We met.

Uh, yeah.

There was an incident
with the horseradish.

Hi.

That's Matt, yeah.

Carly has a thing for him.

Oh, I know.

How do you know?

Oh, my gosh, you guys.

Because I have eyes.

Oh, Nick,

Carly got invited
to the wedding.

Should she tell you
what she wants for dinner?

I still haven't decided.

She's going.

Well, when you do decide,

your choice

is the thrilling
wedding trifecta

of chicken, beef, or vegetarian.

Looks like chicken.

Syd!

Ooh, wow.

We didn't order these.

Chef Nick told me

that you were his official
taste-testers this weekend.

Thank you.

Wow.

He's so talented.

How come he only does
the wedding food?

He's waiting
for Chef Edward to retire

so he can take over.

He did Kyle's birthday one year.

It was incredible.

Syd, go home.

Okay, get some rest.

But you just got here.

I want to take advantage
of every second.

But you're about two seconds
away from faceplanting

into our plate of food.

Okay.

- Goodnight.
- See you tomorrow.

- Okay.
- Love you.

Love you.

Mm.

- Hey.
- Hey.

Do you make the desserts, too?

Yeah, it's all hands
on deck right now.

These wedding parties
are really fun,

but they can get pretty busy.

I know.

Oh, thank you
for the appetizers, by the way.

So good.

Especially
those crispy shrimp wontons.

Oh, hey, that means a lot
coming from you.

What do you mean?

I looked you up online.

You're famous!

No, I just work
for famous people.

I'm normal.

And so are they,
for the most part.

Oh, come on.

What, you don't get starstruck?

No. People are just people.

No one really flusters me.

Hey, Carly.

- Hey.
- Hi.

- Whoa!
- So sorry!

Yeah, I can tell.

He's coming this way.

Hang on
to your hats and glasses.

Go, go, go, go, go.

How are they?

Pretty good.

So, Andrea said
you're coming to the wedding?

Mm.

Just nod yes or no.

Yes.

Good.

I'm really glad you're here.

Me too.

So...

How'd that go?

We're engaged.

You got a cookie crumb.

Oh, great. Perfect.

Hey, you should know better

than to take a bite of food
while flirting.

Were you watching
the whole time?

Oh, yeah.

It was like watching
a little sitcom.

And I'm the lead?

No, you are the wacky neighbor.

Thanks a lot.

It's a compliment.

Most leads are usually
pretty boring.

Are you going
to the barbeque tomorrow?

Say yes.

Yes.

Great.

We'll catch up then.

Okay.

What?

That was a wave.

Yeah, like you were lost at sea

and he was the captain
of a rescue boat.

I'm...

I'm getting some tea.

All right.
You do that.

You know,

90% of what you say
doesn't come out of your mouth.

Body language is the key.

So...

just play it cool.

Okay, look, I am.

That's not cool.

You know,
I like how you've just decided

that it's okay to follow me
around all weekend

and give me advice
without being asked.

I'm sorry,
I just know how guys think.

They can see someone
trying too hard

from a mile away.

I'm not doing that.

Okay.

Don't you have somewhere
you need to be?

Yeah.
Prepping wedding potatoes.

Again.

Oh...

sounds like you want to be doing
more than that.

Is it time for therapy again?

I'm just asking as a friend.

Okay, so this is officially
a friendship now?

We've already
talked about our parents,

and you've been giving me

non-stop unsolicited advice
about my love life, so...

I guess you're right.

Friendship it is.

Well, on that note,

friend,

I should...

I should probably head back

to the wonderful world
of au gratin.

I'm sorry.

Don't be.

It's a good, steady job,

and...

I'm grateful to have it.

Sydney mentioned

that you wanted to take over
for Edward someday.

Yeah, that's the plan,
but the man refuses to retire.

Okay, well, why wait?

Why not just open
your own restaurant?

It's impossible
to get an investor

unless you're a "name,"
which I'm not.

Look, all you need
is word-of-mouth.

I actually have
a ton of clients in the city.

Maybe I can help you
make some connections.

Really?

You'd do that?

See?

Friendship perks already, huh!

Look, you're obviously
very talented.

You just... you need
to put yourself out there.

Okay.

Well, um...

I don't know what to say. Thanks.

I haven't done anything yet.

Still. For you to even think
of helping me...

That's pretty cool.

And you know what?

I can help you with Matt
in return.

Like I said, I don't need help.

I am fine.

One for the road.

Stop it. Stop it.

Don't.

Stop it.

Maybe I do need help.

Hey, Jen.

Hey, can you send someone
to my apartment

to overnight
the blue dress I just got?

And my silver Manolos?

I need something to wear
on Sunday night.

You can't find something there?

You want me
to go clothes shopping

on my vacation
from my "clothes shopping" job?

Okay. Good point.
What's the event?

I got a last-minute invite
to a wedding.

Friends from college.

Well, not friends-friends.
Just people we knew.

Well, not "knew-knew".

I helped the bride
with something,

and she invited me
to the wedding.

Just can't
get away from work, huh?

It's...

a little more than that.

You've already met someone?

Actually,
it's someone I already knew.

- Hi.
- There you are.

So, should I just meet you
down by the bar?

No. You don't
have to wait for me.

Just head down to the fireplace
and I'll meet you there after.

I still feel like

maybe I shouldn't join in
on some of the wedding stuff.

I mean, we're not really
part of their group.

It is just a barbecue.

Where your soulmate
also happens to be.

Okay, Syd, I've barely
spoken to Matt.

I know. I just...

I have a really good feeling
about this weekend.

That's all I'm saying.

Now go.
I'll see you later.

Okay.

- Hey.
- Hi.

Ooh, looks good.

"I call it "bore-be-cue".

Yeah, I'm guessing
the lodge's wedding coordinator

doesn't exactly invite you

to meet-and-greet
prospective clients.

No, she does not.

Hey, the bartender's off
just getting some ice,

but I can get you a drink
if you'd like.

Yeah.

Soda water
and a couple of cherries.

Yeah. You got it.

Bubbles.

And a couple cherries.

A couple more.

Mm-mm!

One more.

Okay...

Yes.

Ooh!

- Cheers.
- Thank you.

What? I love garnishes.

I am exactly the same way.

I put a ridiculous amount
of olives in my martinis.

Mm. Don't even get me started
on skewered fruit.

Actually, anything on a skewer,
I'm going to eat it.

What are you doing?

Nick, these are not
"eat the garnish" people.

Yeah, but you are.

Why are you hiding it?

Okay...

you know what,

I never really vetted you
in the dating department.

I mean,
if you're such an expert,

tell me about

the amazing relationship
that you must be in.

I'm single.

- Really?
- Yeah.

Okay, don't look at me
like that.

All right?

Most of the events that I do
are at night.

I barely get Saturdays off.

I work every weekend.

Mm.

Actually, I know
exactly what you mean.

This is my first weekend off
in over a year.

Yeah.

Yeah.

Okay, the truth is,

the last few women
that I've dated

have been pretty clear
that they were tired of waiting.

For you to get off work?

And for me to be
more than a banquet chef.

That's awful.

But, hey, if you ask me,

I think the fact

that you ran into
the one that got away

on your one weekend off...

that's a great sign, huh?

He didn't get away.

I never had him
in the first place.

Come here.

Well, now's your chance.

Don't blow it.

Thanks.

Carly, hi!

Andrea, great job
planning the weekend.

Everyone looks like
they're having a blast.

Thank you.

Just like the good old days.

I have to take your word for it.

I feel like

back then I never really

got the chance to just hang out.

Well, we're glad you are now.

I'm glad, too.

Here you go, my soon to be wife.

Aw, thank you, honey.

I wish the photographer was here

to take a group photo
of the Tiburon College ladies.

Oh, well, here, I can do it.

Carly, you're one of the ladies.

Matt can do it.

- Sure.
- Thanks.

Ladies only.

Hey, hit me.

Squeeze in.

Do we all look okay?
Do we need a little "zhuzh"?

Is that the right word?

Yeah. No "zhuzhing" necessary.

You look great.

Okay, ladies.

Let's see those gorgeous smiles.

Perfect.

You, uh, got a text.

Technically, that's a no.

Uh...

that's another Matt.

Oh, there's
two Matt Harpers here?

I really hope so.

Matt, buddy, game time.

Yeah.

I'll see ya.

I love horseback riding.

When?

Lily, you are going
to love this.

Look what I found
on my old hard drive.

Photos from our ski trip
over winter break.

Oh, my gosh.

You don't want
to see the photos?

I wasn't there.

I was always
so impressed by you, you know.

You always worked so hard.

You knew
exactly what you wanted.

Now look at you.
You're at the top of your game.

How do you know that?

Word gets around.

It was really nice of you
to help Andrea.

Oh, it was not a big deal.

I was just happy I could help.

And such a weird coincidence

that I happened to be here
at the right time.

To me, there's no such thing
as coincidence.

I think people
are brought together

for a reason,

even if they don't know it yet.

I'm glad I decided to come.

You weren't going to?

To be honest?

The older I get,

the more I see
the "Singles Table"

as a particularly cruel form
of torture.

I could not agree more.

So...

why don't we sit together?

Finally go on that date.

I didn't think
that you remembered that.

Of course I did.

I mean...

who knows what might have been?

Well, only one way to find out.

Is that Sydney again?

Yeah.

Let's take a selfie.

Oh, I'm not one of those

"pictures or it didn't happen"
people.

I'm not either,

but this is
clearly an emergency.

Okay.

Okay, yeah.

That oughta do it.

Thanks.

Guys, watch this.

Watch the master work.

I'm going for it.

Okay, I know, that's my cue.

I'm sorry.

We will rebuild!

Top you up?

Thanks.

So that looks promising.

Yeah. Yeah.

He's still a very sweet guy.

Hasn't changed a bit.

Should we book the wedding band?

It was one conversation.

Well, sometimes,
that's all it takes.

Yes, thank you.

So, hey, I was texting
with my client, Georgina,

about you.

And turns out she's hosting

a function at her house
in the city next week,

and the private chef
just canceled.

So, are you interested?

She runs with a bunch
of Silicon Valley types

with money to burn.

Next week?

That wasn't exactly
the reaction I was hoping for.

Don't you want this chance?

Oh, yeah. Of course.
It's a great opportunity.

So, what's cooking?

For the masses?

Baby back ribs.

But for you?

Barbeque pork skewers...

with a side of achara.

Achara?

Pickled papaya,
carrots and peppers.

But I put
my own little spin on it.

Oh, my gosh.
It smells amazing.

Why can't you
serve that tonight?

Everything okay out here, Nick?

You bet.

Too much spice.

Of course.

I'll dilute the dressing.

Did you literally
just get in trouble for flavor?

We don't call him "Chef Bland"
for nothing.

It's all yours.

Okay.

I'm so excited.

That's it.

Mm. Mm! Mm!

Nick, that sauce is amazing.

It's my secret recipe.

Yeah, I've been playing
around with it for years.

Any chance your secret
includes sesame?

You could taste that?

Wow, your palate
must be really refined.

No, it's not my palate.
It's my face.

Because whenever I have sesame,

I break out in a hive.

How is it?

No. There's nothing wrong
with your...

Oh, no! Is it bad?
It's bad, isn't it?

No, no.

You can barely...

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

Maybe you're lying to me.
Are you lying to me?

No!

I'm so sorry, Carly.

It's okay.
It'll go away in a minute.

Anyway, it was worth
the mild allergic reaction.

"Worth the mild
allergic reaction."

I think that's probably

the best compliment
that I have ever gotten.

You're not really
going to eat like that, are you?

Are you kidding?

It's the only way to eat them!

I totally agree.

Cha-ching!

Aren't you the one

who convinced us
to try it this way

when we all went camping?

Did I?
I don't remember.

You're both insane.

Check out this beauty.

Aren't you going to finish that?

Uh, yeah.
I'm just full from dinner.

Well, I'm going to go for it.

Trust me.

In my line of work,

we learn to live in the moment.

What do you do for work?

I'm a trauma nurse in the E.R.

Wow, really?

Yeah.

I didn't know
that's what you ended up doing.

That's incredible.

I remember when you made
everyone cookies

when they got sick.

I never got any cookies.

Yes, you did.

Everyone got them.

Well, I am exhausted.

I have to pace myself.

Goodnight!

Goodnight.

Yeah...

Same here.

- 'Night, Lily.
- 'Night.

'Night, Matt.

I think I might take a little
walk around the grounds.

Want to join me?

Play it cool.

Yeah, I actually think
I'm gonna call it a night.

Okay. No worries.

It was nice
catching up a little.

- Yeah.
- I'll see you tomorrow?

You betcha.

"You betcha!"

I don't know
where that came from.

I've never said that in my life.

See? That is why pastry chefs
hate me.

Because whenever I make dinner,

people don't have room
for dessert.

Oh, no, no, no.

Actually, that's not it.

- I just...
- I have a weird quirk with dessert.

Do tell.

You'll think I'm insane.

Probably.

So...

I only really like
to have dessert when I'm home,

so I can really
take the time to savor it.

I try to make it last
as long as possible...

And I even use a tiny fork
if I can find one.

Okay, yeah, you're insane.

Hey, I can make a piece of cake
last an hour.

Have your dates
seen you do this?

No, because your reaction
is exactly why they have not.

Thanks for
the "play it cool" advice,

by the way.

You're welcome.

Hey.

You got my back, I got yours.

See you tomorrow?

Yeah.

You betcha?

Funny.

Mm-hmm.

I forgot how nice it is

to do nothing on a Saturday
but take a stroll.

I wish I could stay,
but duty calls.

- No!
- I know.

Okay, so there's

a great little craft store
around the corner,

and then the farmer's market.

Thank you.
I'll check it out.

And don't forget

you have a massage
at 7:00 with Hans.

Okay, there's no way
his real name is Hans.

Okay, his name's Gary,
but tell no one.

- Okay.
- Bye

Hey.

Oh! Hi, Carly.

Hi.

You doing okay?

I was trying
to find a new dress for tonight,

but...

nothing seems to be working.

Hmm...

well, do you mind
if I take a look around

and pull some looks for you?

You really don't have to.

I want to.

- I would love that.
- Okay.

I'll be right back.

I don't know...

this isn't a color
that I would ever wear.

Just trust me.

Come on.

See?

Oh...

I would have never
picked this color.

I love it!

You're amazing.

Let's save "amazing"
for E.R. nurses.

I help people feel better
about how they look.

But you... you're a nurse.

I mean, you help people
feel better, period.

What I do pales in comparison.

Aw! Thank you.

So, why weren't we
better friends in college?

I know.

Syd and I, we weren't really
around the dorms that often.

But it's been really nice

getting to know everyone
better now.

Second chances
don't come around that often,

do they?

No. They don't.

You look amazing! See?

Thank you.

- Hi.
- Carly!

- Hey.
- Hi!

What're you doing here?

We just played
a quick round of golf.

Our driver dropped us off.

Said there was

an award-winning food truck
here today.

Would you like to join us?

Yeah. Sure, sure.

- Hey.
- Hey.

Matt, this is Nick.

He's the chef

taking care of everything
for the wedding this weekend.

- Oh, hey.
- How's it going, man?

Just played an early nine holes.

Life is good.

We're heading to the food truck.

Do you want to join us?

Uh...

yeah, sure.

Why not?

Okay.

I meant to ask.
Do you golf?

Does miniature count?

Not really.

They both use those
tiny, little pencils, right?

That is true.

I could teach you
how to play if you want.

That would be great!

Ooh, it's a hot wings truck?

Look! You can win a hat.

Oh. Yeah.
I'm gonna pass.

Oh, yeah. Me too.

You guys don't like hot wings?

Normal ones, sure,

but...

these are
supposed to be torture,

and I'm pretty sure

a chef burning
his own taste buds out

is a bad career move.

If I wanted to suffer
for a free hat,

I would just play in a pro-am.

But hey.
Feel free.

I don't know.

I mean, if you guys
aren't having any...

Hey, Carly,
if you want to do it, do it.

Okay, yeah.
You know what?

I'm doing the challenge.

- You in?
- No.

I'm not messing with that
the day before my wedding.

I guess you guys
are just scared.

I'm in.

All right,

three for the Firestarter
Challenge, please.

Okay.

Are you guys ready?

Yup.

Bring it.

- Okay.
- Yeah.

Nope.

Nope!

No!

I'm sorry.
Are you okay?

Oh, no.

I'm out.
I'm dying.

Yeah.

Thanks. Yeah.

Milk! Thank you.

You okay?

All right, well, I guess...
Is it my turn now?

No, Carly.
No, no, no, no.

Seriously.

You're going to end up
in the hospital.

Thank you both for your concern.

Mm.

We have a winner!

Wow. Thank you.

Mm.

So good.

You hustled us.

That's impressive.

My dad used to make these
every weekend for Niner games.

I built up
a pretty high tolerance.

Thank you!

Guess I should have
maybe mentioned that, huh?

Hey, Nick.

Hey.

- Thank you.
- Yeah.

- You walking back?
- Yeah.

I'll join you.

What do you mean?

I guess
I just don't get fashion.

Well, fashion is a way

for someone to express
who they are,

how they feel,

how they want
to be perceived by others.

It makes all the difference.

Isn't that kind of superficial?
A little bit?

Okay...

do you think that people

would take you seriously
as a chef

if you came to work
in ripped jeans and a tank top?

If the food was good, yeah.

I just think that people
should be who they really are.

Fashion is an extension
of who I am.

Okay...

well, then why don't you design
your own clothes?

What? It would be great.

What? What's wrong?

There was
a great little cafe here

just two weeks ago,

and now it's closed.

So... it's available.

No.

No. I'm not going down
that road again.

You tried opening up
your own restaurant before?

Yeah.

Why didn't you tell me?

It's not worth discussing.

It was a long time ago.

It just didn't work out.

The investors and I

didn't see eye to eye
on a lot of things.

So that's why you weren't sure
about cooking for Georgina?

Yeah. Owning
your own restaurant

is a huge risk,

and I just can't take
any risks right now.

People depend on me.

Oh. Do you have kids?

I just realized
I never asked you.

No. No kids.

My lola's in a very expensive
retirement home.

Your lola?

Grandmother.

Yeah, I help pay
for any expenses

that aren't covered
by insurance,

which is a lot,

so I just can't risk losing
a steady income

because I think I'm too good
for wedding chicken.

Yeah, well, you are, though.

You just need to make it clear
to whoever invests

that you want full control
over the menu

right from the start.

I just don't want
to get my hopes up.

About anything.

You have a gift, Nick.

You need to share it.

I could say the same about you.

Oh, I thought
fashion didn't matter.

I'm sorry
what I said about your job.

You're amazing,

no matter what you're wearing.

I just hope
Matt realizes that, too.

I should really hustle back
for happy hour.

I'm making a charcuterie board.

That's like all the garnishes.

I'll save you a couple skewers.

Yeah? Hey, perks
of knowing the chef, right?

This one.

May I have
everyone's attention, please?

We just wanted to thank you

for coming to our special
pre-wedding happy hour.

I hope you're all enjoying
the wine

and this incredible spread.

But take it easy tonight.

We expect full participation

on the dance floor
at the reception tomorrow.

Now, has everyone entered
their name into the raffle

for Chef Nick's special
private dinner tonight?

How did you talk Chef Edward
into letting you do this?

Uh...

I did not.
It's his night off.

Tonight, the kitchen's all mine.

Wow.

I'm jealous of whoever wins.

And the winner
for a gourmet dinner for two

is...

Matt Harper!

I guess our official first date
just got an upgrade.

If you want to join me, I mean.

Yes. I would love to.

Sounds great.

I should... I should head back

so that I have time to make
a romantic dinner date for two.

- Hi.
- Hi.

Thank you.

You look beautiful.

Thank you.

Good evening.

First, Chef Nicolas has prepared
tortang talong cakes...

Eggplant crabcakes
topped with bagoong tomatoes.

Thank you.

Wow.

So, it turns out you are
one of those

"pictures or it didn't happen"
people!

No. Just this once.

I'm showing a client of mine
in San Francisco

what Chef Nick can do.

Mm!

Mm. This is wonderful.

Not an eggplant guy?

Not so much.

The cucumbers in it...
It's great.

- Cheers.
- Cheers.

Next, we have Chef Nick's
kinilaw bites...

Tuna ceviche
stuffed in taro chips,

with a seaweed salad,

and a fresh hint of cilantro.

So good, right?

Yeah. Yeah, it's great.

For the final appetizer course,

Tinola dumplings,

chicken and ginger filled,

with a pickled trio side.

Enjoy.

Nice.

- Are you okay?
- Yeah.

I'm fine.

I guess I'm not
the most adventurous eater.

Well, this is
the best way to try new things.

Small bites.

Lots of courses.

Yeah, I suppose so.

To be honest,

the meal's
not that important to me.

I'm just glad

we finally get this time

to get to know
each other better.

Me too.

So...

how did you get
into fashion design

in the first place?

Well, for a long time,

I wanted to start
my own clothing label,

so I majored
in fashion design...

but right before graduation,

I dressed
my cousin's bridal party,

and that's when I realized

I loved helping people find
their signature style,

so that's what I do now.

I'd ask you to style me,

but I spend so much time
on the golf course,

my wardrobe is pretty much
polo shirts and khakis.

So many khakis.

As long as they're not pleated,
you're fine.

Oh, no.

I'm so sorry.

This is my rep in Scotland.

Oh!

Will you excuse me?

Of course.
It's fine. Go ahead.

Sorry.

Hi.

Ready for the main course?

Matt's just on the phone.

It's hot food.

You're allowed to start.

It's official dining etiquette.

Okay, well, in that case.

What did you make?

It's my Lola Anna's
famous glazed chicken adobo,

and because there's

so much Chinese influence
in Filipino cuisine...

Kiampong.

My version of fried rice

that's all wrapped delicately
in a banana leaf.

Oh, that smells
just like the fried rice

my mom made growing up.

See?

You grew up with Filipino fusion

and you didn't even know it.

I don't know how you do it.

It's like...

It's like a culinary map
across Southeast Asia.

Like, you could really taste

how one culture
influences the next.

That's exactly
what I was going for.

Main course.

That looks great, Chef.

Bon appetit.

Enjoy.

This is so good. Mm!

Delicious.

So where were we?

Uh, sorry?

That's right. Khakis.

Right.

Hmm.

Yeah, I think we pretty much
covered that particular topic.

Yeah.

No pleats.

No pleats.

I'm so sorry.

We're going to have to close
the kitchen early tonight.

Is everything okay?

There's a water leak.

You guys should probably go.

I understand.

Let me just get
the tip for Patricia...

Andrea and Jason...
They took care of it.

Oh.

Excuse me.

Okay.

Sorry.

Hey...

Hey, what's really
going on here?

Chef Edward, he just showed up.

Thanks again
for the amazing meal

and the amazing service.

Hey, you know what,

I'm just going to go
to the ladies room.

Okay.

Okay!

Went rogue
on the menu again, huh?

Maybe just a little.

Okay, well, just so you know,

that was the best meal
of my life.

Hey! How was dinner?

It was incredible.

It was... good.

Just a few things I wasn't into.

Like...

cilantro.

Oh, no!

Oh, yes.

Wait, you don't like cilantro?

It tastes like soap.

I heard it does for some people.

You should have said something.

It's fine.

I bet you told the chef
it was delicious.

How do you know that?

Because you never want to hurt
anyone's feelings.

It's one of your best qualities.

So, what are you guys up to?

Andrea and Jason are having
dinner with their families,

so we're going to head to town
and have one last drink.

Do you two want to join?

I'm in. Carly?

You know what?
You guys go ahead.

I'm about two seconds away
from a food coma.

You sure?
I don't want to just ditch you.

You're not, I promise.

Go, go, have fun.
Have fun.

All right.
You still want to go?

- I'm in.
- Okay.

- See you.
- Bye.

- Hey.
- Hey.

Is everything okay?

That was close,

but Chef Edward
did not catch on.

- Thanks for your help.
- Yeah.

Hey. You know where you don't
have to cook in stealth mode?

Your own restaurant.

I know...

So...

where's Matt?

We called it a night.

I...

I made you a little something...

extra.

What is it?

Bibingka.

It's my lola's old recipe.

Coconut-rice cake.

No fusion.

Just old-school good.

Thank you.

I can't wait to try it.

You're welcome.

- Goodnight.
- Goodnight.

Okay, then.

Nick, hey!

The Bibingka cake
and the tiny fork...

that was so sweet of you.

I mean,

no one has ever done anything
like that for me before.

Well, now someone has.

Okay. My ride's going
to be here in five minutes.

Wait, where are you going?

Aren't you prepping
for the wedding?

I already did everything

so that I could
have time to cook lunch

for Georgina
and a few of her clients.

- Today?
- Today.

I'll be back in plenty of time.

She's sending a car.

- Oh!
- Yeah.

That's fantastic!

I'm so happy for you!

Are you okay?

Yeah, I'm fine.

Nick, you're going
to blow them away.

I just, I know it in my gut,

this is going
to change your life.

I hope you're right.

I know I'm right.

So, when does the car get here?

Uh... three minutes.

- You found a dress?
- Yes!

A dress the equivalent
to a piece of tofu.

Well, do what I would do.

Spice it up.

It would take
more than a little spice.

Believe me, if I had time,

I would just
remake the whole thing.

Don't you have all day?

I suppose...

I mean, you did major
in design, right?

Time to use it.

How did you know that?

I heard you tell Matt at dinner.

The question is,

why wouldn't you admit

that it was something
that you wanted to do?

I guess I just didn't want
to admit it to myself.

Hey, if I'm going for it,

you should, too.

I got to go.
Wish me luck.

You don't need it.

You are going to be amazing.

And thanks, Carly.

None of this
would've happened without you.

See ya.

♪ Lookin' around
at the people I see ♪

♪ I'm making sure
that they really see me ♪

♪ Not gonna waste
any more energy ♪

♪ Bein' the girl
always tryin' to please ♪

♪ Ain't no right time comin' ♪

♪ Yeah... ♪

♪ Ain't no right time ♪

♪ The right time
is right here ♪

Not bad.

This dress...

it's incredible, Carly.

People would buy it.

And the one you designed
for Kira's mom.

I mean,
you know what people want.

All you have to do
is take a chance on yourself.

I'm still not sure
I want to be in the spotlight.

Mm-hmm.

That's because you always
see yourself as, like, a...

a back-up singer.

You make everything
and everyone around you better,

and you never take any credit.

Okay, but you are not
a back-up singer.

You are...

you're a singer/songwriter.

You are a musical genius.

This...

this is your song.

I know you don't like
people always telling you

to be better... be more...

Like your mom always did.

But if this is what you want...

you owe it to yourself...

to give it a shot.

You're pretty awesome,
you know that?

We both are.

I'm just glad Matt finally
got a chance to see it.

Well, actually...

Matt and I
aren't going to happen.

Oh... sorry.

Well, I guess that answers
the "what if" question...

Unless...

What if...

this weekend was never really
about Matt at all?

What are you talking about?

It took coming here
for me to realize

that you can't fall in love
with someone

until you love yourself.

All of yourself.

Not just the version that
you think people want to see.

Nick showed me that.

Wait.

Chef Nick?

You were right about

this weekend
being about fate, Syd,

but Matt is not
the reason I came.

Whoa.

Nick is.

Whoa.

I know.

I'm still wrapping
my head around it.

How did I not notice?

Because I wasn't being
weird around him.

I was just being myself.

No second-guessing.

No playing it safe.

Just...

me.

So what now?

Now we find out
if he feels the same way.

Okay, is it Nick?
Is it Matt?

It's Andrea.

The bridesmaids need some help
putting things together.

Okay, but what about Nick?

Well, lucky for me,

tonight, I know
exactly where to find him.

Perfect.

♪ It's somethin'
that I can't describe ♪

♪ It's sent from up above... ♪

Thank you.

You're welcome.

♪ ...I'd like to take you
somewhere new ♪

♪ So we can start again... ♪

Oh, Patricia!

Have you seen Nick yet?

Did he tell you how lunch went?

He only just got back.

He barely made it in time.

How did he seem?

Oh...

He was floating on air.

I knew it!

Hey.

Sorry.

- Hey.
- Carly.

Let's go.

Hey, I'll find you
after dinner, okay?

Okay. I got so much
to tell you.

I do, too.

Yeah. Okay.

Here.

And for you.

Hello?

Yeah.

Uh-huh.

Yeah.

Hey.

I thought your designer dress
didn't make it.

It didn't.

I designed my own.

Wow.

It's a beautiful dress, Carly.

Thank you, Lily.

Excuse me.

Oh, yes, oh, yes.

Lily, are you okay?

Yeah, I'm fine. I...

I just needed a moment.

I just...

I wanted to say I'm sorry.

I should've noticed sooner

that you still had feelings
for Matt.

Matt Harper?

No. I... I don't.

I broke up with him years ago.

Before our senior year
of college.

I know.

But that doesn't mean
that feelings just go away.

He's moved on, Carly.

With you.

And I totally get it.

I'm happy for him.

Honestly.

You're amazing.

Here's the thing.

I don't want to date
Matt Harper.

And Matt Harper
doesn't want to date me.

He still loves you.

How do you know that?

Because I see the way
you look at each other.

The way he looks at you.

I just didn't notice
at first because...

Didn't you have a thing
for him in college?

How did you know?

Everyone did.

I mean...

he's pretty much perfect.

But that's just it.

The Matt Harper
I built up in my head...

He was perfect.

But he's not perfect for me.

He's perfect for you.

I know he is.

You need to talk to him.

But what if you're wrong?

What if I'm right?

Big rock here.

He's a lucky man.

Look at the size of this rock.

Yeah, let's do another one.

Yeah, you take
the necklace this time.

Come with me.

Smile! Yeah.

Okay...

We need to talk about Lily.

What about her?

You still have feelings for her.

Carly, she broke up
with me years ago.

She moved on.

Yeah, and you tried
to move on back then, too.

You even asked out someone new.

I know our date took
a few years to actually happen,

but...

you know, now I think...

it wasn't meant to.

I'm so sorry, Carly.

You're wonderful.

And I did wonder
what might've happened

if we went out
all those years ago.

But I'm not Lily.

And I'm not Chef Nick.

Thank you, Carly.

Nick, wait.

Nick, stop.

I'm sorry.
I have to go.

I don't understand.

A half hour ago, you were fine.

You were better than fine.

What happened?

After the dinner service,

Georgina called me to tell me

that she wasn't impressed
by my culinary offerings

and that she was going to pass
on investing.

Chef Edward,

who was already annoyed
that I was late coming back,

overheard the phone call,

and he didn't like the fact

that I was
looking for another job

while I was supposed
to be making

Chicken Marsala.

Between that

and a busboy

accidentally telling him

that I went off the menu again,

Chef Edward
finally had enough to fire me,

and I can't say
that I blame him.

Oh, no.
I'm so sorry, Nick.

So, now I have no job,
no investor.

Nothing.

I don't know what I'm going
to tell my grandma.

That I blew it again?

That I can't help her?

Nick, I'm so sorry.
This is my fault.

I pushed you into this.

No. Hey.

Carly, it was...

This wasn't your fault.

I made the decision to go there.

I just let things go too far.

Let let me talk to Edward.
Or Syd.

We can fix this.

- We can...
- Carly...

I've loved getting to know you,
but I...

just let myself dream too big,

and it was a mistake.

Are we just talking about
cooking here?

Maybe we should've just
kept our dreams to ourselves.

Nick, come on.

I'm sorry.
I've got to go.

Any luck getting
Chef Edward to rehire Nick?

I'm still working on it.

This is all my fault.

No, it's not.

You were just trying to help.

I can't believe
it's ending like this, Syd.

I know.

Yeah, okay.

Great. Okay, bye.

Thanks, Jenn.

What?

Nothing.

I'm just glad

Sydney talked you into
finally designing your own line.

It wasn't just Sydney...

Hey, Syd.

Hey.

Look at you doing your thing.

I'm so proud.

Thanks.

I have to admit,
I've never been happier.

Creatively.

I was talking
to our retail manager

about maybe having
some pop-up shops

in our lobby.

Do you think we could
display a few pieces

from CJ Mason?

Oh, yeah.
I would love that.

Great!

And, you know,
I mean, when you're in town,

maybe you can find Nick
and talk.

Nice try.

I'm happy to come up there,

but as far as Nick goes...

I have to move on.

Got it.

Love you.
See you soon.

This dress is gorgeous, Carly.

I bet every piece you brought

is going to sell out
in five minutes.

Well, that one's not for sale
because I made it for you.

Really?

Of course.
It's the least I could do.

I wouldn't even be doing this
without your encouragement.

And Nick's.

Oh, I'm sorry.

Thank you so much
for this dress.

I'm gonna wear it
to dinner tonight.

You have any place in mind?

Yeah, there's
a new place on Main

that's getting
some great reviews.

Let's do it.

- I'm so glad we're doing this.
- I know.

I can't remember
the last time we went out.

Oh, cute.

So cute.

Oh, hi. Sure.

Thank you.

So, an old friend reached out
and suggested this place.

I'll be back, okay?

Hi.

Hey.

I... I don't know what to say.

The last time I saw you,
this seemed...

Impossible.

- Yeah.
- I know.

How did you go
from that to this?

I mean, I thought
Georgina didn't like the menu.

Oh, she definitely
wasn't a big fan,

but turns out

everybody else
really loved my food,

and eventually,
they tracked me down.

And they became your investors!

But none of this
would've happened

if you didn't
believe in me first.

Nick, I'm so happy for you.

I mean, now you're free
to just put it all out there.

No holding back.

Yeah.

And I heard that you're doing
much of the same.

Yeah. I was finally ready.

Thanks to you.

All I did was remind you
of who you already were.

Look, Nick, that night
at the lodge,

I didn't get to say
what I wanted to say.

- I...
- Is this her?

Oh, hi.

Yeah, Lola, this is...
this is her.

Carly, this is my lola, Anna.

And, Lola, this... this is Carly.

Hi. It's so nice to meet you.

And I'm a huge fan
of your Bibingka cake.

Oh, thank you.

You walked away from this?

Yeah...

Biggest mistake of my life.

Lola...

maybe you can go back
and sit at our table?

Oh, fine.

You were...

You were going
to tell me something

before we got so...

adorably interrupted?

Yeah.

Okay, I have an idea.

Follow me.

Okay.

Better?

It won't be better until
I can tell you how I feel.

I didn't think
that I'd get another chance.

Neither did I.

And, um...

I'm not holding
anything back anymore.

♪ It's been a while
since those days ♪

♪ I still get that feeling
when you walk my way ♪

And I'm really hoping
you feel the same way.

Does that answer your question?

Maybe tell me one more time.

♪ ...But you kept
walking anyway ♪

♪ You smiled ♪

♪ And that said
everything to me ♪

♪ Love came easy ♪