Uncorked (2009) - full transcript

captions paid for by
Larry Levinson productions

When I was your age,

I used to stand right here
next to grandpa

and prune
these very vines.

Really, dad?

Really.

Was dad ever my age,
grandpa?

Yes, he was.

Sometimes I think
he still is your age.

Hey, would you two
lay off of me?

We're just kidding!



All right.
I'm gonna go check on dinner.

Will you two be able to manage
without me?

We'll be just fine, son.

You keep an eye
on grandpa,

make sure he does a good job
and stays out of trouble?

Roger that, captain dad.

Why don't you go check
your pots and pans?

Don't be late.

We'll be there.

How am I doing,
grandpa?

Just like an expert.

I'm sorry
lunch was cut short.

You have a meeting.
I understand.

I will see you tonight,
though, won't I?
Of course.



We'll go to the Jacobson's
for drinks,

do a little networking,

then on to the grove for dinner
and new year's.

Hey, are you
still on for dinner

at the oak room
on the 14th?

I'm in court that day,

so I'm probably working late
to brief the client.

No problem.

Can you still make the Ogilvie
reception on the 6th?

No, I have a late meeting
in the afternoon.

It's all right.

I'll move it to earlier
in the day.

Yeah?

All right,
I got to run.

You go in there,
and you get them, tiger.

Then I'll pick you up
after my last appointment.

I'll see you later.

Smells wonderful!

Hi, mom.

I have been starving ever
since you started that sauce.

Try this.

Saffron?

Nah. My secret.

Well,
it's delicious as always.

I know it's selfish,

but I am so glad you decided
to take that celebrity chef spot

at the resort.

I just love that I get
to keep you guys around

for an extra
couple of weeks.

Well, just an excuse

so that Luke and I can spend
more time with you and dad.

Speaking of which,
where is my grandson?

Out in the vineyard
with dad,

determined to be
the next great vintner.

Well, let's just hope
that the winery

is still in the family
by the time Luke grows up.

Mom, I told you,
if you need money --

Andrew,
you are a dear heart,

but you can only keep bailing
out a sinking ship for so long

before it actually sinks.

And I won't have you go down
with us.

Mom --
could you please hand me
the, um, corkscrew?

Ladies and gentlemen,

if -- if I could have
your attention, please!

Right. If you could all
take your seats.

Johnny is gonna be with us
in just a moment

so we can get started.

Good. Good, Milton.

I'm anxious to meet your new,
financial officer.

From what I hear,
he is quite a hard-charger.

I think you will find Johnny
very impressive.

Hello, everyone!

And you must be
Thomas Jenkins.

I recognized you from last
month's issue of Forbes.

Great article
on your banking firm.

Thank you.

Johnny prentis.

It's a pleasure
to meet you...Johnny.

Well, we have a lot
of ground to cover

to get
this expansion rolling.

So, if you don't mind,
Milton...

Your show.

Here at Stafford,

we're poised to venture
into this uncharted territory.

With boldness and precision,

we can and will dominate
this new frontier.

No other company has
the know-how or resources

to do
what we intend to do.

Now, if you skip ahead...

Come on, grandpa!

Hey, Luke!
Luke, don't go so fast!

You're gonna kill
your old grandfather!

Dad! Dad!
Grandpa says I'm doing great!

You certainly are becoming
quite the vintner.

Grandpa must be proud.

In more ways than one.

He may be a vintner
and champion track star.

This kid runs faster
than a rabbit!

I bet I could catch
a rabbit.

All right, champ,
go get washed up for dinner.

That's one
smart little fella.

Wine gene must have skipped
a generation.

Come on,
you could have been a master
if you'd wanted to.

You just didn't have
a passion for it.

I only hope we're still
in the wine business

when Luke
comes into his own.

Not you two, dad.

Come on,
we'll figure something out.

Hey, guys.

Are you gonna drive to L.A.
after dinner

to check
on the restaurant?

I mean, after all,
it is new year's Eve.

Yeah, I was,
but Stephanie said

she's got everything
under control.

I like Stephanie.

You know,
she's a very smart woman.

And pretty, too,
I think.

Why isn't she up here

helping you
at the corporate retreat?

Mom, she just manages
my restaurant.

And she just got engaged.

That's...Too bad.

Mom.

Honey,
I just want you to be happy.

I just don't want you to be,
you know, alone.

I'm not alone.

I've got you two and Luke.

We're always
here for you, son,

but you need more in your life
than work,

a couple of aging parents,

and a young one
to keep you company.

Dad, I really appreciate you
looking out for me.

But I'm fine, really.

Now go get washed up
for dinner.

Here's one for you.

Thank you.

Thank you.

Um, bring us a bottle
of your best champagne.

Actually, I'm glad I was
able to finagle reservations.

This place is booked
months in advance,

especially for new year's Eve,
you know?

Well, it's lovely.

I hear the food here is some
of the best in the city.

It's great.

We've got a number of specials
tonight for the holiday.

I would love to tell you
about them.

Christopher?

The papers just came back
on the motion I filed,

and I've got to look it over
before dinner.

Well...

We're at dinner.

On new year's Eve.

Exactly.

Exactly.
You're right.

So let's...

...talk about
something else.

Did I tell you
that I got invited

to the telecom conference
in wine country next week?

Really?

A toast then to...

My bigwig girlfriend,

the financial wizard,

and to...

Our first
new year's Eve together.

And I'm sorry I won't be seeing
the midnight hour,

because I've got to go back
to work.

Pie!

I get to put on
15 more pounds.

I love that my guys
are all together.

A toast --
to a wonderful new year

and the greatest family
a man could want.

Happy new year.

Happy new year.

So, do I get to stay up
till midnight?

Midnight?
Are you kidding me?

Sweetheart,
it's new year's Eve.

It's new year's Eve.

I know,
but that's awfully late.

I promise I'll get up real early
to help with the tree,

and I'll even do
the dishes tonight.

All right, then.

But at 12:01,

you're marching straight off
to bed, mister!

Deal.

I told you,
bribery works every time.

It feels strange
ending new year's Eve

before the new year.

I'm sorry.

It's just, I have to get
this brief ready for court.

Want to have breakfast
tomorrow morning?

I do.
I'll call you.

Great.

Luke and your dad
have a lot in common --

they were both out
by 10:00.

Yeah,
we're an exciting bunch.

Pajamas and hot chocolate
on new year's Eve.

Wouldn't the tabloids
love to know

that famous chef
Andrew Browning

spent tonight having dinner
with his boring old parents?

No.

You know I love spending time
with you guys.

Plus,
it's great for Luke, too.

You should be out
having fun

on a night like tonight.

You know, slow dancing
with a beautiful woman.

Andy...

Meredith would want you
to be happy.

And I am.

I love you to pieces,
honey,

but you know better
than to lie to your mother.

I love you, too, mom.

Another new year.
They go by so fast.

Faster and faster.

So don't waste
a precious moment

of the time
that you have.

I've got so many plans
for Luke and me.

You know,
they say if you don't believe

that god
has a sense of humor,

make a lot of plans
and see what happens.

Is that so?

Have a little faith
that somebody up there

knows what's best for you,

somebody besides
your long-suffering mother.

Well, I've had about as much fun
as I can stand in one day,

so I'm going to bed.

See you in the morning.

Good night, honey.

Happy new year's, mom.

Happy new year.

George, could you run these down
to legal for me?

Johnny,
I have those reports.

Now give me the gossip about
your date with Christopher.

Nothing to gossip about.

Come on.
Tell me all about it.

Food was great.

And the company?

What's wrong with the company?
Are my numbers off?

I meant
the dinner company.

But just to get the business
out of the way,

since I know
that's all you think about,

you're completely right
that a successful expansion

would put Stafford
in an entirely new bracket.

I'm sensing a "but" here.

Well...

Not a "but," an "if."

It will catapult us into
a different set of clientele

if we manage
to pull this off.

We'll be right up there
with Debra Miller's company.

Miss corporate barracuda?
There's a power broker.

It will be a delicate
balancing act.

Competition with Debra Miller.
We can do it.

Yeah, as long as we sign
these investors.

Without the money,
we don't have a shot.

I'm not particularly worried
about that.

We sold the pitch
to Jenkins.

Well, then we have nothing
to worry about.

Which leads me back
to your personal life,

where I worry very much.

How was new year's
with Christopher?

It was fine,
like it always is.

Meaning?

He had a brief to prepare.
We cut the date short.

We met for breakfast
the next day.

And then I came to the office
to work, alone.

How romantic.

What do you want me
to tell you, Renee?

Christopher's a nice guy.
I enjoy his company.

Are you in love
with him?

We have our careers.

Hey, Johnny,
you are my best friend.

And as far
as career goes,

you are always
on the right path.

When I was a little girl,

I always had this fantasy
of a knight in shining armor

swooping in and whisking me
off my feet.

That's a dream.
I have a career to focus on now.

Hello?

Johnny,
I'd like to see you right away.

Heading right there, Milton.

Right, well, call me

after you've talked
to Thomas, then, will you?

Thanks.

Do we get it?

Jenkins called to say
he needed more time

before approving the financing
we requested.

All right, well,
I'll cancel my trip

to the conference
this weekend.

No, don't do that.

A lot of the key players
are gonna be there.

Who knows, you may find
a new investment pool.

I need you to be
our eyes and ears.

You can count on me.
I know that.

And, Johnny...

You're still allowed
to take time to eat,

see some of that amazing
wine-country scenery

while you're out there,
you know?

If I have the time.

Make time.

Right.

Afternoon, sir.
Thanks.

Andrew, you'll be back before
the hors d'oeuvre reception?

Absolutely,
just got to run to the vineyard

and pick up
the little guy.

Okay.

And thank you.

Your parents' wine
is excellent.

Our guests
are going to love it.

See ya.

Here you go, ma'am.

And, Renee,
I need you to be on call

every minute
of this weekend.

All right,
you're my second in command,

and it falls to you
to make sure

everybody stays in line
and keeps working.

Sure.
Have fun at the conference.

It's a conference.
I'm not here to have fun.

Please.

It's essentially
a corporate retreat

with a few seminars
thrown in

to justify the expense of
massages and vineyard tours.

Have fun.

All right. Thanks.

We're gonna do exactly like
we did last time, okay.

Hopefully,
they'll be repeat offenders,

and everything
should go fine.

There are gonna be
some difficulties.
Yeah.

It's gonna be a very odd
transition for them.
Yeah.

Yes, I know.

I just need to get
the research --

Thomas Jenkins.

Johnny.

How nice
to see you again.

Do you know Debra Miller?

You know,
we've never actually met.

But I do like to keep up
on our competition

in the telecom industry.

I just finished reading
your book, miss Miller.

I'm Johnny prentis.

Well,
I hope you enjoyed it.

Yes,
it was very inspiring.

So, I had no idea

that you planned on attending
the conference.

Well, I could say
the same thing about you.

True.

Have you tried
this California oak cabernet?

Mnh-mnh.
We've been sampling it.

It's very, very good.

You should try some.

It's exquisite.

Didn't you say
that this winery

was one of those
on our tour tomorrow?

Yes.
Yes, great.

Well, you know,

we might actually
bump into you tomorrow.

I hope so.

Would you,
please excuse us?

I've taken Thomas away
from other guests long enough.

It was nice meeting you.

It was nice
to meet you, too.

Enjoy the party,
Johnny.

Thank you. You, too.

Christopher!

What are you doing here?

Surprising you.

That's an understatement.

This is a work conference.

Well, I called Renee.

You called Renee.

Well, I called Renee,
and I changed some appointments.

And she said it was okay

because others were bringing
their spouses

and significant others.

I guess it would be advantageous
to have you here.

People might be less guarded
talking to you than to me.

That's actually
quite savvy.

Well, set me loose.
I'm here to help you.

And I was hoping later we could
maybe have...A conversation?

Conversation.
Of course.

Let's go network.
Okay.

Here.
Thank you.

I can't believe people
came all the way out here

just to see you.

I mean,
you're a good cook and all,

but it's not like you're
a football star or anything.

What, do I got to throw
a wicked pass

to be famous
in your eyes?

No. I would rather
you just be my dad.

Works for me.

Excuse me. Do you have
any idea what this is?

Is it wine
or some kind of a punch?

Cider, I think.

But those are great.
Good.

Yeah,
they're really good.

I-I'm
Christopher Stanley.

Thomas Jenkins.
Pleasure.

I-I'm sure I'll see you around
this weekend.

Enjoy.
I'll leave some of the food
for you.

Laire, how nice to see you.
How are you?

Haven't we met before?

I'm Christopher Stanley.
Right.

You were the attorney who
represented the goodwin brothers

in the class-action lawsuit
last year.

Very impressive work.

I put together
the financial package

that kept them out
of chapter 11.

I'm Debra Miller.

I remember.

And speaking
of impressive,

the structured
settlement plan

you put together
was genius.

Are you here representing
a telecom company?

I am not.

I am here with my girlfriend,
Johnny prentis?

I just met Johnny. She seems
like a very lovely young woman.

She is.

I've just been standing here
eating the food.

It's fantastic.

It is. It is.

They brought in some top chef
as a guest chef here.

Anyone I'd know?

Andrew Browning.
I'm sure you've heard of him.

Of Browning's
in Beverly Hills?

And the fields
in Las Vegas.

Yeah, the wait list is a year.
I can't get a table.

I can introduce
you later.

Well, I would appreciate that.
That's fantastic.

No, no. He was just
as surprised to see me.

He was talking to Debra Miller.

We all know her reputation
for buying small companies

and dismantling them for assets.

Hey, when you're done
with that...

You know what? I will keep you
posted if I hear anything else.

I am so sorry.

That's all right.
It's fine, really.

But you're covered
in wine.

It's -- it's okay.

Well, at least
it's a great vintage.

Thank you.

Let me -- let me get your coat
dry-cleaned.

No, it's fine.

I've got 100 of these things
laying around.

I'm deeply sorry.

I'm Johnny prentis.

I'm --
Andrew Browning?

You know him?

Hi, Debra.

Wait, and you know her.
Yes.

Andrew, this is
Christopher Stanley.

Hi.

Okay, and you know her.

Debra and I worked

on the goodwin brothers
case last year,

and we just ran into each other
at the reception.

I -- I was just
telling Debra

that I have been dying to go

to your restaurant
in Beverly Hills.

You are?

Yeah, absolutely.

Andrew's one of the
leaders of gastropub cuisine

here in the states.

Well, if you say so.

It was a pleasure
meeting you both.

If you'll excuse me,

I need to go change my coat
and find my son.

The moment he smelled food,
he disappeared.

But, please, stop by
Browning's as my guest.

I certainly will.
Thanks.

Bye.

It was nice
meeting you.

Thank you for the wine.

She's up to something.

Debra Miller?

Well, that's a safe bet.

But it probably has nothing
to do with you.

She's just here to network
with industry leaders,

same as you.

And how did you know
about Andrew Browning?

One of my clients is a huge fan
for some reason.

And I just scored
major points

getting an impossible-to-get
reservation.

That's great, Christopher.

Hey,
about the conversation...

Can it wait till tomorrow?

I want to log a few more hours
of networking,

and then I have
to get some sleep.

I'm exhausted.

I promise you, tomorrow,
I'll be rested and awake.

Of course.

Renee, I really need that
information e-mailed to me asap.

I'll send it just as soon
as I hang up with you.

Great.
And what about the winery tour?

You're booked
on the same tour

as Debra Miller
and Jenkins.

It leaves right
after your round of golf.

I hate golf.

Johnny,
it's the one activity today

where Miller and Jenkins
aren't attached at the hip.

You need one-on-one time
to seal the deal.

I'm making sure
you get it.

I knew there was a reason
why I left you in charge.

You didn't have a choice.
I'm your number two.

And by the way,
I want to thank you

for encouraging Christopher
to drive up here.

So you're having fun?

No, Christopher's
actually really great

at dealing
with the other executives.

You're using your boyfriend
to network?

I am not using him.

Believe me, he's getting
just as much out of it.

You do know what the word "fun"
means, don't you?

Look, I'll call you later.

Just send that e-mail
as soon as we hang up.

You got it.

And it's called a birdie.

Let's go hit
some golf balls.

All right.

Well, that was fun.

And you played well,
considering.

Considering what?

Considering you spent
most of the round

pumping Thomas
for information.

I know.
And I got nothing.

Well,
what did you expect?

That he was gonna spill
10 years' worth

of corporate secrets
to you?

Actually, yes.

I do happen to be good
with people.

I know.

Hey.

You played a heck of a round,
Johnny.

But you should have told us
that Chris here's a ringer.

No, no, no.
Just a good round.

Yeah, I'll say.

Hey, if you'll excuse me,

I need to go change
before my tour leaves.

We have to go change,
too.

Let's go.

So, Johnny, tell me,

what do you enjoy doing
in your free time?

Free time?

Johnny doesn't actually know
what that is.

Come on. We all have
our ways of relaxing.

I find work relaxing,
actually.
Really?

Well, I,
hope you make time

for this wonderful man
of yours.

You should consider yourself
very lucky.

I think she knows
how lucky she is, right?

Of course I do.

Debra, look,
I wanted to get your take on --

please, no work talk now.

Let's all just go enjoy
the wine country, okay?

Of course.

Okay, champ.

You keep an eye
on grandma and grandpa.

And the winery.

Yes, and the winery.

Do you have anything special
planned for tonight's menu?

As a matter of fact, I do.

Remember that recipe I tried out
on you the other day?

You mean experimented
on me?

Experimented?

You say that
like I made you eat

exploding soup
or something.

You liked it, didn't you?

It was awesome.

Well, hopefully,

the resort guests
will say the same.

You stay out of trouble,

grandma and grandpa
will bring you over later.

Okay. Bye, dad.

This is our California Merlot.

It's,
one of our best sellers.

It has wonderful earth tones
and a medium body.

And it's got a wonderful
long finish.

I think you'll like it.

Thank you.

Hi. We have the Merlot
or the cabernet.

So, you familiar with the,
wine industry?

Partially.

I did a study on the beverage
industry a few years ago,

which yielded some
very interesting results.

She never really stops,
does she?

Never.
It's part of her charm.

The béarnaise is done.

Yeah, he's still waiting
on that!

So, you all set
for the big event?

Absolutely.
Should be ready in no time.

Fantastic.

I can't tell you how excited
the guests are

about the gala dinner
and your demonstration.

Thank you for that,
by the way.

Is that gonna be part
of your menu preview?

Maybe. It just depends
on how it's received.

A new recipe I tried out on Luke
the other night.

That boy
has a sophisticated palate.

Little guy's been getting
foie gras

since before
he could speak.

Can't be easy
raising him alone.

It's not,
but you do what you can.

Andrew,
it's been five years.

Maybe it's time you allowed
yourself to open up,

give life a chance.

You sound like my mother.

Besides, a relationship
is the furthest thing

from my mind right now.

Between keeping up with Luke
and the three restaurants,

I barely have time
to sleep.

Okay.

But I had to tell you
as your friend.

I'll go check
on the serving staff.

Sure thing.

Can you feel it?

Feel what?

Success, money,
prestige --

it's all around us,
Johnny.

These are some of the most
powerful people in the industry,

some of the biggest fish.

Well, it's my job to land
the biggest of the big.

Yes, it is.

Now you put on
your adorable smile,

and you go cas
your bait.

All right.

I know I keep asking.
Did the package come?

I'll check.
Here it is.

Thank you.

You're welcome.

He's recently separated.
Well, maybe a year or two ago.

I think they're not.

I-I don't think
they got a divorce.

Hello.

Hello.

Here
for the demonstration?

Yes.

People actually pay
to watch you cook?

Yes, and enjoy my,
as Debra would say,

"gastropub cuisine."

Yeah, and what exactly
is gastropub cuisine?

I'm taking classic fare,
adding a little gourmet twist --

so, fine diner food.

Sounds like
my kind of menu.

Well, then you'll just have to
drag that boyfriend of yours

into my restaurant
some time.

No, any reservation
you get for him

will be used impressing clients,
not me.

Well, then we'll have to get you
one of your own.

Nice to see you again,
Andrew.

Good luck tonight. I'm looking
forward to seeing it.

Well, thank you.

And if you would
excuse me,

I'm gonna go check
on your dinner.

All right.
See you guys.

Seems like
a nice fellow.
Yeah.

There's Debra and Thomas.
Let's go, say hi.

You know what, let's ask them
to join us for dinner.
Yeah.

Everyone's raving
about the food.

You're a true success.

Well, the evening
isn't over yet.

The demonstration?
You'll do just fine.

Sorry, we're running
a little late.

Hi, dad.
Miss Heidi.

Hello, Luke.

Mrs. Browning, your wine was
the highlight of the evening.

Well,
that's good news.

Maybe it'll help jump-start
the business.

Hey, where's dad?

We gave him
the evening off.

Well, come on,
let's go get you two fed.

I'm so glad we're seated
next to each other.

I've really enjoyed chatting
with you.

Me, too.

Yeah,
after reading your book

and all the success you've had
in your life,

I was expecting you
to be a bit more --

ruthless?

Yes, I suppose.

Well, I've certainly created
a business image,

with focus and strength
being the key elements,

but that doesn't mean
I can't also enjoy my life.

Can I ask you
a personal question, then?

Ask away.
I'm an open book, so to speak.

There's been a lot
of speculation

about why
you never got married,

and you never commented
on it.

Now, of course, you don't
have to answer my question,

but I was just
wondering...

I've had some very wonderfully
significant relationships

in my life,

but never with a man
who was ultimately willing

to share me
with my career.

And if I'm forced
to choose --

okay, you two,
enough of the corporate talk.

The demonstration's
beginning.

Ladies and gentlemen, may I have
your attention, please?

We're about to begin
our cooking demonstration

with our celebrity chef.

Great.

Hello, everyone.

I know I had the pleasure
of meeting a lot of you

yesterday at the reception.

But in the event that I haven't,
I'm Andrew Browning,

and I'll be your chef
for the evening.

He's so comfortable
in front of an audience.

He has to be. He's in front
of crowds all the time.

Andrew is just the best.

You know, he was offered
his own television show.

Very lucrative deal.
Turned it down.

Why?

He said he'd rather spend time
with his son.

Andrew would like you
to assist him

in his cooking
demonstration.

No, no.

I can't even make macaroni
and cheese out of a box.

Johnny, you should go.

It's good exposure.

No,
it'll be a disaster.

Go ahead,
you'll be fine.

It'll be fine.

Okay.

I always like to have a diner
assist me in the preparations.

So with that, a warm welcome
for miss Johnny prentis.

Is this getting back at me
for spilling wine on you?

What,
big corporate exec,

afraid of speaking
in front of a few people?

It's not a boardroom.

First, I'd like to show you
how to make the dessert

that you just enjoyed,
my creamy caramel torte.

I've got some sugar melting
on the stove for the caramel.

And in just a moment,

Johnny, I'd like you
to turn the mixer on.

Well,
it could have been worse.
How?

You could have burned down
the whole place.

You know what --

no, no, no, no.

You are not leaving me
up here alone.

I am sorry.
I am so sorry about --

please just let me go back
to my seat.

Let's just start over?

I've never been
so embarrassed.

I told you I can't cook.

Which is why
we go out to eat.

Look at the bright side --
they will remember you.

Um, everyone?

Everyone,
I'm sorry to interrupt,

but I was hoping
just to take a moment

to make
a special announcement.

First, I think we owe
a round of applause

to our master chef
of the evening,

Mr. Andrew Browning,

for that fabulous meal
he prepared...

With a beating.

And I would be remiss
if I didn't mention

the fabulous show put on
by miss Johnny prentis

during the cooking
demonstration.

But now business.

Thomas Jenkins and I
have known each other

for over 20 years.

But we've been two ships
in the night

when it comes to work.

Well, I'm pleased to announce
that for the very first time,

we've been able to solidify
a deal to work together.

As of Monday morning,
we will be joining forces

and taking over
Stafford telecom.

To us.

You've got a great team.

Thanks a lot.
Very impressed.

Can I pour you some?

Thank you. I'll pour.

Okay. Sure.

Everything's upside down.

I know this is tough.

It's not the only job
out there.

The entire industry knows
you're a financial genius.

So I guarantee you,
this time next week,

you'll be flooded
with offers.

I humiliated myself in a roomful
of corporate executives.

And I'm finished.

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

I mean,
Stafford was his baby.

He took me from
financial consultant to c.F.O.

He trusted me
with his company.

And I lost it.

No, you didn't.

Stafford was already vulnerable,
and you know that.

And I'm guessing
that Debra

had her sights set
on the company

long before you
and Thomas Jenkins

entered the picture.

That doesn't make me feel
any better.

Well...

I have something
that might.

Johnny, I told you

I had something
I wanted to talk to you about.

What,
this is your idea of talk?

You're proposing to me?

Johnny, we've been seeing
each other for a while now,

and...

I think it's time
we take that next...

Logical step.

The next logical step?

Let's face it.

We're at a stage
in our lives

where we have to start planning
for our future.

And I think

that this is gonna be great
for us and our careers.

We have the same goals,
the same aspirations.

And, honestly,
an engagement to me right now

is the perfect political
maneuver for you to make.

Christopher, marriage
isn't a political maneuver,

or at least
it shouldn't be.

We're not teenagers anymore,
Johnny.

A solid marriage isn't based
on passion or romance.

It's about
a strong foundation

for a good,
productive life together.

I'm sorry, but I-I think
it should be more than that.

Come on, you're too old
to want the fairy tale still.

It's not a fairy tale.

I mean, marriage isn't
a business proposition.

I mean, besides, I --

Marriage isn't even
in my plan right now.

I have to be honest,
Johnny,

this is where I'm at
in my life, and...

If we're not
gonna move forward,

I think I might have to look
for someone who is.

I'm sorry,
but I'm not that girl.

Thank you
for your honesty.

Thank you.

Bit chilly to be outside
tonight.

Yes, it is.

Is that your friend
who just left?

He's going home.

Well,
I hope everything's okay.

I ruined your cooking
demonstration,

lost the company,

and I got dumped,
all in the span of a few hours.

So, really,
it's becoming a bang-up day.

Well, I'm sorry.

As for the demonstration,
well, you did spice it up a bit.

That's an understatement.

As for being dumped,

it could put a dent
in one's self-esteem.

You know, I think "dumped"
is too strong of a word.

It was more of
a mutual walkaway.

You know,
I always knew he wasn't...

The one.

I feel so...Ridiculous,

like I'm some
16-year-old girl

planning
my Rose-colored future.

Not ridiculous.

It's actually nice

to find someone
who still believes in love.

Well, I hope everything
turns out the way you want.

It will.

Yeah, just as soon as I pick up
my self-esteem.

You strike me as a person

who will bounce back
rather quickly.

Good night,
miss prentis.

Good night,
Mr. Browning.

So, now that we've gone
public with the merger,

I suppose you want to begin
some reorganization?

I already had that
in the works

way before you crossed
that final "t".

Of course you did.

Are you gonna retain
any of the Stafford group?

I really haven't
considered anything.

Got any ideas?
Well...

Thank you.
Yep.

Yes, Johnny prentis.
I'm in room 1408.

Sure.

One second.
Okay.

Anyway, um...

Johnny,
this is my third message.

Please call me back asap.

Thank you for checking.

Okay.

Were you able to
get any sleep?

A little.

I spent a lot of time
thinking about my next move.

You know, I'm curious.

How did you manage to pull off
the takeover?

I keep running the numbers
in my head,

and I don't see
where the weaknesses were.

There were none,
actually.

That's how Stafford ended up
on my radar in the first place.

I heard that you were courting
Thomas Jenkins,

so I approached him
and de a better offer.

Well, we wanted the deal
in place

before Milton found out

that Stafford
was out of his control.

Right.
And he knows now.

Well, I called him myself
last night.

Dear, you're still so young
and so talented.

In another few years,

things like this
will just roll of your back.

How many times have you been
through something like this?

More than I can count.

Listen, you and I
will sit together

before the end
of this conference,

and we'll discuss
your plans.

I-I'm sure I can make a few
phone calls on your behalf.

Thank you,
and, Debra...

I have to admit,
your plan was brilliant.

Thank you.
I think so.

That was quite an exciting
cooking demonstration

you gave yesterday.

Yeah,
it could have been worse.

Yeah, she could have burned down
the building.

Would you excuse me
for a minute?

Sure.

Feeling any better today?

No, I'm --
I'm a little on edge.

Well,
anything I can do?

Nothing I can think of.

Come on.
I like a good challenge.

Unless, of course,
you need to leave.

Actually, I don't have to be
anywhere today.

But I'm sure you do,
and --

not really.

Plus, I'd like to see
if it's possible

to be within 100 yards of you
and not be in mortal danger.

Yeah, no promises
on the "mortal danger" part.

Yeah, nothing special.

Just a drive out to
my folks' house in the country.

Plus, I need to save them
from my son.

Yeah, I would really enjoy
a ride in the country.

Well, all right, then.
Shall we?

Okay.

I think I was here
yesterday -- on the tour.

You must have tried
some of the wine.

Yeah, it was great.

Your parents live here?
They own it.

You must have seen them here
yesterday.

Well,
with wine that good,

they must be doing very well
for themselves.

Well, you'd think so,
but, no.

It certainly has
its other advantages.

Hi, dad!

Hey, champ!

Luke,
this is my friend Johnny.

Johnny,
this is my son, Luke.

Hi. Why do you have
a boy's name?

When you work for all men,
it comes in handy sometimes.

Didn't you destroy dad's
demonstration kitchen

last night?

Yes, that was me.

See, dad,
if I was your assistant,

everything
would have been fine.

Yeah,
he's probably right.

Where are your grandparents,
champ?

In the aging room,
come on!

Shall we?

Okay.

446.

Okay.
325.

Grandma, grandpa,
guess what.

Dad's here, and he brought
a girl with him.

Got a girl with him?

Hello, honey, I didn't think
you were coming today.

I thought
you had to work.

No, no. Mom, dad, this is
my friend Johnny prentis.

Johnny, these are my parents,
Paul and Sophia Browning.

It's nice to meet you.
Hi.

Nice to meet you, too.

Welcome
to our little winery.

I've never met anyone
who's owned a winery before.

Well, we own it
for the time being.
Dad.

We'd love to have you stay
for dinner. Can you?

...no.

I have a seminar at 5:00 P.M.
on new technology.

That sounds boring.
You should stay here with us.

Our grandson is very bright
for his age and quite outspoken.

Please stay.

You know what? A home-cooked
meal sounds perfect.

Great.

Can I show her
the grape crusher?

Sure. Luke's gonna be
a master winemaker some day.

Follow me.

I would run if I were you,
or you'll never catch him.

Will you --

I'll catch up with you.

Okay.

H-Hold on, Luke!

Mom, dad, stop.

I didn't say a word.

I didn't say anything.

You two do silent louder
than anybody I know.

So, I had a very pleasant
and professional conversation

with Mr. Henfield.

Yeah?

I've always said Milton
is a very classy guy.

He's not a stupid man.

He sees the value of what
we're trying to do here.

So, is he gonna retire?

He says he wants to spend
more time with his family.

And with
that golden parachute,

he and his family are gonna have
quite a nice time.

Yeah, I'll say.

I'm happy for him.

Whoa!

Careful, Cruella.
You gonna lose your edge?

Nonsense.

You know me.
I always find a win/win.

Speaking of which,

Milton is emphatically
in favor of...

The other matter
we've been discussing.

Well, good.
And how about you?

I haven't decided yet.

Well, here is to...

Bigger and better.

Indeed.

Sophia,
this pasta is amazing.

I can see where Andrew
got his cooking chops.

Well, thank you.

I'd love to take credit
for his talent.

But, honestly,
he taught me.

I think he became a chef

because I was
such a terrible cook.

Come on, mom.
Your cooking's not that bad.

Well,
thank you, son,

but you know
I could barely boil water.

Remember the year
mother served us

a raw Turkey
for Thanksgiving?

Great, Paul, thank you
for bringing that up.

We spent the next three days
in bed

with food poisoning!

Okay, okay,
but you and dad

did teach me everything I know
about wine.

I had an older sister,
and she learned to cook,

but my father
was determined

that I would become
the winemaker.

Well, I haven't enjoyed a glass
of wine more.

That's our reserve Merlot.

Andrew always pairs it
with this dish.

Well, I can taste why.

I don't normally eat cobbler,
but that was delicious.

Dad taught grandma
to make it.

It's the only thing
she knows how to make.

Sometimes she makes it
three times a day.

All right, champ, go help
grandma with the dishes?

Roger that.

So...I'll see you later,
Johnny?

Um...sure, Luke.

Sorry about my family.

They can be
a little overzealous.

No. No, it's sweet.

Yeah, Luke and I don't get
to spend enough time up here.

It's the reason I took the guest
chef spot at the resort.

Luke gets an extra week
with his grandparents,

and I get to check in
on them.

Andrew,
can I ask you a question?

Fire away.

What did your father mean

when he said they own the winery
for the time being?

Are they selling?

Yeah,
they don't want to,

but the vineyard's been losing
money for the last few years.

They can't seem to stop
the bleeding.

And they might have to get out
while they can.

One of the big
wine conglomerates --

"factories," dad calls them --
has offered to buy the land.

Well, what about
the family label?

Well, I suppose,
like any small

family-run businesses of today,
it'll just disappear.

Come here.
I want to show you something.

It's beautiful out here.

You should see it
in season,

when the vines
aren't dormant,

covered with leaves
and grapes.

A lot of fond memories
as a child growing up here.

You don't seem all that
comfortable around children.

I haven't spent a lot of time
around children.

It's a communication
thing.

You just use smaller words
and try to be gentler

and more understanding
of their feelings.

I've spent
the past 10 years

training all the gentleness
and understanding out of me.

Not great traits to have
in the business world.

Yeah, well,
at least you recognize it.

Most people
grow up unhappy,

not knowing what they want
in the first place.

Well, I've never really had
a problem with that.

I've always been very clear
about what I want in my life.

there'll be other jobs.

I know.

So, how long has your family
owned the winery?

Well, my mom's grandfather
founded it in 1925.

My dad had a vineyard.

Well, he merged it with mom
when they married.

I wish there was more
I could do.

They don't willingly
accept help from me.

Your parents have principles.
It's a good thing.

I should...
Check on Luke.

Right.

Thank you again
for a wonderful day.

It was very thoughtful
of you.

Well, we all enjoyed it.

I just hope we can do it again
before you leave.

No, it's okay.

I'm -- I know it's none
of my business,

but early in my career,
I was a management consultant,

and I helped out
a lot of small businesses.

Would you
and your parents mind

if I took a look
at the winery's financials?

I-It wouldn't cost you
anything.

Really?

Yeah.
That would be
incredibly nice.

They would really
appreciate that.

Sure.

But don't you need to be getting
back to Los Angeles?

I should, but I'm not ready
to face my boss just yet.

Or the inevitable
next step.

I think a few extra days
in wine country

could be
just what I need.

Yeah, well, the last 24 hours
have been a bit hectic.

Yes.

But the last eight hours

have actually been
quite enjoyable.

Listen, about my parents --
I know you want to help,

but it seems like you got a lot
on your plate right now.

No.

No, it's actually --
it's perfect.

It gives me something else
to focus on,

something worthwhile.

Well, all right, then.
I'll pick you up tomorrow.

Great.

Just tell us what you need,

and we'll make sure
you have it.

Thank you so much for offering
to look into things.

It means so much.

Hi, Johnny.

Hello, Luke.

You can ask me any question,
and I'll answer it.

I'm an expert.

Well...

All right, well,

um, what I'm gonna need
from you --

and this is
no easy proposition --

is how the winery works --

every process,
every expense.

Well, we should
get started, then.

Right, Mr. Expert?

Roger that,
captain grandpa.

Come on, Johnny.
We'll start in the vineyards.

This time of year,
the vines are pruned

so they'll grow back stronger
in the spring.

The local soil
is very important

in relation to the varieties
of wine we can produce.

This is decomposed
granite soil,

which is best
for making syrah.

But we can grow all kinds
of Bordeaux grapes

because of the wind
of the pacific ocean.

And how do you know that?

Because I have to take over
the winery someday,

and I have to know
everything.

Well, here they are --

all the records
for the last two years.

Great.

And are these all
still active accounts?

Yes, I believe so.

They are all
active accounts.

Hey, dad!

Grandpa wants to show Johnny
the fermentation room.

We'll be right there,
son.

Come on, Johnny.

Go ahead.
I'll put these in the house.

Okay.

Come on, Johnny.

All right.
Grandpa's waiting.

Okay.

We don't want to
keep him waiting.

These are
the fermentation tanks.

This stage of the process
creates heat.

We cool the wine

by setting a proper temperature
in these tanks.

The alcohol
is created naturally

by the addition
of action yeast.

When it's ready, the wine is
transferred into oak barrels

and moved
to the aging room.

This way.

Wine is best aged

at a temperature of
between 55 and 58 degrees.

Extreme heat and cold
is very detrimental

to the wine during aging.

We use oak barrels for control
of the oxidation.

Excessive oxidation causes
the wine to turn bitter.

And you know this because?

Everyone knows that.
Come on.

That smells amazing.

What are you
looking for?

My pen.
I just had it.

You found it.

Thank you.

Try this.

It's delicious.

A little spicy but...Delicious.

It's not that spicy.

It's spicy.

Since this is your job,

do you ever get tired
of cooking?

It's never really felt
like a job.

I enjoy doing it.

It makes people happy.
What more can I ask for?

That's funny.

What's funny?

Your mom and dad said the exact
same thing about the winery.

Well, that's because they enjoy
their lives very much.

Okay, no problem.

so you're still alive.

I'm sorry
I didn't call you earlier.

I just didn't know
what to say.

Well, anything
would have been appreciated.

Do you have any idea
the kind of pandemonium

that's been going on
around here?

Milton's been
trying to reach you.

I don't even
want to think about it.

Look, I actually called
for a favor.

Of course you did.
What do you need?

Do you remember the old files
from the consulting firm?

Yes.
Do you happen to know
where they are?

I'm pretty sure
they're on my hard drive.
Great.

Do you think
you could send me

the beverage-industry study
we did?

And let me guess --
you need them in five minutes.

No.
You can take your time.

10 minutes is fine.

And I'll be back
in a few days

to figure out a game plan
for our future.

Just where are you
right now?

I'm still at the California
oak winery.

With Christopher?

No.
It's a long story.

I'll tell you all about it
when I get back.

Yeah,
you most certainly will.

First we couldn't get you
to go to the vineyard.

Now we can't get you
to come home.

Sounds like some story.

In a few days, Renee.

All right.
Talk to you soon.

Thank you.

Well, I think the little
guy finally went to sleep.

You're really good with him.
You know that?

I try.

But I worry what he's missing
with a single parent.

But you're one parent
who loves him very much.

That counts for a lot.

I hope so.

So...
What's next for you

now that your firm's
being taken over?

I-I don't know, really.

I mean, the transfer of power
is gonna take a couple weeks.

And then I suppose I should
start looking for another job.

Wouldn't you
take some time off?

You got to strike
when the iron's hot.

I've spent 10 years
getting to where I am.

I can't let my career be
derailed by something like this.

You know,
my mother likes to say...

"You can make all the plans
you want.

"But god has made his

and doesn't feel the need
to check in with you."

And do you think that?

When I married Meredith...

...i made all these plans

for us to spend the rest
of our lives together,

and with Luke.

And then one day,
she's diagnosed with cancer.

And all those plans
meant nothing.

I'm so sorry.

One day,

I could see my whole life
stretched out in front of me.

And the next...

...i couldn't see two feet
in front of my face.

What did you do?

Put one foot in front
of the other.

Took care of Luke...

And Meredith.

Tried to have faith.

How do you
hold onto faith

in the midst
of something like that?

What else do you have?

See you in the morning.

Thank you.

So, what'll it be?
Eggs, waffles, omelets?

His omelets are the best.

Well, I'm sure they are.
Surprise me.

But I definitely
want a cup of coffee.

I feel bad that you guys waited
to have breakfast for me.

Breakfast is always
a little later on sundays.

So, will you be
joining us?

Joining you?

For church?
We always go as a family.

Mom.

I-I haven't been to church
in...I don't know how long.

It's your choice,
of course.

Johnny, you don't have to go
to church with us

unless you want to.

I-I'm not really dressed
for it.

Our church
isn't fancy.

You look great.

Like grandma always says,

"the lord isn't looking
at your clothes,

but the person inside 'em."

Well, in that case,

it would be lovely
to join you.

So, what will it be.

I'll have one
of your famous omelets.

Good choice.

Did you hear that,
champ?

It's wonderful that
it worked out so nicely.

I know. It couldn't be
a better day, too.

It's beautiful.

We have...Andrew.

Hello, Luke!
Good gracious, how you've grown!

Andrew, welcome.
Good to see you again.

Johnny,
this is reverend whitting.

He's been our pastor
since before Andrew was born.

Come on now, you make me sound
as old as methuselah.

Well...

This is Johnny prentis.

She's helping us out
at the winery.

It's nice to meet you.

It's my pleasure.
It's good to have you here.

Thank you.

The lord welcomes all those
who wish to listen to the word.

Of course, then it puts
all the pressure on me

to make that experience
good enough

that you'll
want to come back.

It was a real pleasure
meeting you, Johnny.

Excuse me.

Dad, can we play football
after church?

Absolutely, champ.

You in, grandpa?

I wouldn't miss it.

Family tradition.

Come on, Johnny.
You can sit with me.

Nice!
Whoo! All right!
Great pass!

All right,
here you go, dad.

Ooh. Okay.

Here, Luke!

You're gonna fumble!
Aah!

Hey,
no fair tickling!

Hey, 15-yard penalty
for tickling!

Nice tackle, Luke!

Nice tackle, buddy.

Thank you.

Whoo!
I love you, bud!

I love you, too, daddy!

Love you more!
Nuh-unh!

Well, I'm gonna go make
some sandwiches.

I've got some ham
that's calling my name.

I'll make the sandwiches.
You make some lemonade.
Okay.

What about them?

They'll come in
when they're hungry.

We are very appreciative
of any help you can give us.

Your parents still do
their accounting

the old-fashioned way.

Dad thinks computers are
the demise of all mankind.

Winemaking hasn't changed
that much,

so why should
the accounting?

Well, you know, I never really
gave much thought

to the technicalities
of winemaking.

I always just popped the cork
and drank.

And now you know more
than you wanted to,

thanks to the little guy.

Well,
Luke is a wonderful child.

Yeah, he's grown quite fond
of you.

I'm still so awkward
around him.

Well,
you're getting better.
Am I?

No.

So, what do your future plans
look like?

I don't know.

For the first time in my life,
I simply do not know.

Hey, dad!

Can you come here a minute?!
Grandpa and I need you!

Well, I better go check
on that...

Wonderful child.

Dad, will you hurry up?

Can I get you anything?

No. No, I'm fine.

Whatever it is,
you can ask me.

I-I don't know.

It's -- it's probably none
of my business, but...

I was just wondering
when Andrew's wife died.

Five years ago.

He hardly had time to adjust
to the news,

it happened so suddenly.

Meredith started
feeling ill.

They diagnosed her
with leukemia.

And it was only a few months
later that we lost her.

The saddest part was that
Luke was so little,

he barely remembers her.

Poor little guy.

Andrew threw himself
into his work.

Part passion,
part escape.

I can understand that.

I can see that
you two understand a lot

about each other.

I mean, I don't know
what your situation is.

Well, i'm...

Andrew and I...

We're becoming friends.

Sometimes the most obvious
things in life

are the most difficult
to talk about.

Just...

Don't let opportunities
pass you by

without a second thought.

You're much too young
to have regrets.

If you need anything,
I'm in the house.

Okay, thanks.

So, how do you know
when the grapes are ready?

By color?

Common misconception.

My father likes to say,

"the important factors
for making great wine

"have to do with sugar levels,
acidity of the grapes,

"Berry flavor,

and most importantly,
tannin levels."

It's all
very technical stuff.

Yes and no.

What it all comes down to,
really, is how it tastes.

It's just like everything else
in life.

It's all about personal taste.

You know, I need to head back
to the resort,

tie up a few loose ends.

If you'd like,
I could take you.

No, I'm almost finished
with my analysis,

and I want to give
your parents some thoughts.

I'm sure your dad
can take me back.

So, is there hope?

I have a few ideas.
Nothing spectacular, I admit.

Your parents are already
very economical.

But there is always hope.

There is...Isn't there?

How about you meet me
at the bar at 7:00?

I'll see you there.

All right.

And thank you.

You're welcome.

So?
Can we save it?

Well, let me show you
what I found.

That doesn't sound
very reassuring.

It absolutely
can be saved.

And some updating of systems
will be a part of it.

But most importantly,

I think we need to take
the heart of this winery,

its heritage,
and make that the centerpiece

of a new marketing, pricing,
and distribution campaign.

Now, what you have here
is something to be savored,

but the key
is your distribution.

Well,
we have tried to pair

with some more established
vineyards before,

but we just didn't find
very much interest.

Well, I can work with you
on finding a major distributor.

How?
You don't live up here.

Well, I could spend
some time up here,

oversee the changes.

That is,
once you see the specifics,

if you want me to.

I -- I feel certain
that we're gonna want you to.

Good.

Johnny!

Johnny, I've been looking
for you all day.

I'm sorry.

I completely forgot
you wanted to talk.

Well, I know you have a lot
on your mind.

Listen, why don't we go inside
and have a drink?

Well, I'm supposed to be meeting
someone in a little while,

but, sure,
I could spare a few minutes.

Okay.

You look like you've made peace
with things.

I'm working on it.

I spent
the last 24 hours

evaluating the holdings
and assets of Stafford

and your plans
to expand the company.

I'm proud of my work.

You should be.

Those numbers
were financial gold.

I truly believe
it would have worked.

Well, thank you.

But it's a moot point,
don't you think?

Maybe not.

What do you mean?

I had every intention
of dismantling

Stafford upper management
until I saw your plans.

You are a singularly focused
young woman.

That's why
I want to hire you.

You want to hire me?
Yes.

A senior
financial position.

But you'd be playing
in a much bigger sandbox --

a lot more responsibility
and power

than you had at Stafford.

And you'd be reporting
directly to me.

Of course, you'd have to move
to our headquarters

in San Francisco.

And you're serious?
You want to hire me.

I think Thomas put it
this way.

When he saw you,

he thought that he saw
a reflection of me.

That's -- that's amazing.

Um...

I mean, I have to talk
to Milton first.

I don't want him
to think --

I've already spoken
to Milton.

Who do you think gave you
your strongest recommendation?

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

I've got to fly to Tokyo
for some meetings.

Are you in?

Of course.

Good.

I'll be back Thursday.

We'll work
on getting you settled.

I jotted down your offer.
Take a look at it.

Everything's negotiable.

Thank you.

I look forward to working
with you, Johnny.

Me, too.
Bye.

Hey, there you are.
I was looking all over for you.

Hello?
Anybody home?

Hi.

I just got off the phone
with my mom.

She is so excited
about your ideas.

I haven't heard her this happy
in so long.

And you're gonna be staying here
for a few months?

I can't.

Y-You can't what?

Debra Miller
offered me a job.

It's a very
lucrative deal.

Well...that's great.

That's what you wanted,
right?

Yeah.

That's everything I've...
Always wanted.

Congratulations.

Thank you.

Your parents...

They'll understand.

So,
where's the new job?

San Francisco.

But, you know, I-I can still
consult with your parents.

I mean, it would have to be
long-distance, but...

Yeah, of course.

The reason why I asked you
to meet me here tonight,

away from your family...

You don't need to say it.

I don't?

Johnny, whatever...
This is...

...you know,
we didn't expect it.

And obviously...

Neither of us
have space for...

Well...

Maybe it's better
we don't name it.

Probably.

So bizarre.

I've only known you
for four days, and yet...

Yeah, it seems like
so much more.

Yeah.

It's nice to know I can feel
this way about someone,

I suppose.

And scary.

Terrifying.

But nice.

It's not like we're never
gonna see each other again.

You know,
I'm gonna...Help your parents

as much as possible.

Luke's gonna miss you.

We'll be heading to L.A.
in a few days.

He's got to get back to school.

I'm gonna miss him, too.

Good luck
with your new job.

Welcome back.

You look...Interesting.

How much wine have you had
in the last week?

I'm not hung over.

I just haven't
been able to sleep.

Well, that explains the lack
of sparkle in your eyes.

I just thought it was
a bad makeup job.

You're sensitive.

I try.

So, what's this big news

you said you couldn't tell me
about over the phone?

You don't waste time.

Well, I learned
from the master. Spill.

I've been offered
a senior financial position

with Debra Miller's
company.

The jerk whose firm
is taking us over?

And I have permission
to take you with me.

When I say "jerk,"
I do mean that

in the most affectionate sense
of the word, of course.

Of course.

But you have to move
to San Francisco.

I can be packed
in three minutes.

What's with the long face?

You didn't have to sell yourself
to seven years

of indentured servitude
to this woman, did you?

No, no, this is a great
opportunity for the both of us.

But...

I know this isn't about you
and Christopher.

I could barely get you to go out
to dinner with him

more than once a week.

No, there's no
me and Christopher.

There's a guy
in wine country.

Like a "knight in shining armor
you're attracted to,

"butterflies
in your stomach,

don't even want dessert"
kind of guy!

I'm gonna go talk
to Milton.

Seriously?!
I want details!

There's plenty of time
for that.

You look happy.

I thought for sure

you'd be battening down
the hatches by now.

You know,
surprisingly enough,

I have never been happier
in my life.

Have a seat.

So, you took the job,
right?

Yes. Thank you
for your recommendation.

You're very welcome.

You don't look terribly excited
about it.

No, no.
It's a great opportunity.

I'd be a fool
not to take it.

Probably.

You know, I have to ask.
Why are you so happy?

Well, I --

I was panicked at first,
but then I went home

and I had a conversation
with my wife, and I realized...

This is the chance
I've been waiting for.

22 years,

and I'd almost forgotten
there's a real world out there.

Right.

So, now,
if you will excuse me,

I have got a tee time
to make.

I'm taking up golf.

You know, I've got nothing to do
with the rest of my life

except live!

Best of luck
on your new job.

Thank you.

Well,
it's been a few weeks.

I almost have everything
in order.

Just don't take too long.
I've got big plans for you.

Good thing you have
no personal life,

'cause you're not gonna have
time for that here.

You don't waste any time,
do you?

Well, there's precious little
time in life, Johnny.

We got to make
the most of it.

If I could work more than
100 hours a week, I'd do it.

What about
the rest of your life?

This company is my life.
And now it's your life, too.

Glad to have you here.

Thank you.

Where's your bag, champ?

What's up?
You feeling all right?

I'm fine. I just thought
she might be here.

Johnny.

She said she'd come back
to help grandma and grandpa.

Yeah, well, maybe she just got
tied up with work, sweetheart.

Well, you always say,
when we care about people,

we have to make time.

That's right.

You see, we can't force people
to love us.

Grab your bag.
Let's go have some fun.

Okay.

Look,
I told you everything.

So, are ever
gonna talk about the guy?

There is no guy.

I have known you
for far too long

to buy the lie you're trying to
sell yourself right now.

Some things
just aren't meant to be.

Well, sometimes we walk away
from things

because we're just too chicken
to face them.

It wasn't just me, Renee.
He wasn't ready, either.

Look at you,
Johnny prentis.

You can take down
mighty corporations,

but you can't deal
with your feelings for a man.

I'm disappointed in you.

It's done.
I've made my decision.

Did you?

Have a good weekend.

You, too.

Daddy?

Hey, champ.
I thought you were sleeping.

I can't sleep.

Something you
want to talk about?

Johnny.
She was very nice.

Yeah, she was.

When is she coming back?

I don't know
if she's ever coming back.

Come on,
let me tuck you in.

Dad?

Can I just stay here and snuggle
withou a little bit?

Absolutely.

Did I ever tell you
about the time

that grizzly bear chased me
up the tree?

About a thousand times.

You want to hear it again?

No. Not really.

Hello, Johnny?

Milton was here earlier.

Yeah, I saw him.
Nice man.

Seems to be enjoying
his mundane life

for the past
couple of days.

But then,
to each his own.

They say that's what makes
horse racing.

Your travel itinerary.

I'm going somewhere?
Yes.

Our Tokyo office is falling
apart at the seams.

You're booked
for a flight tomorrow.

You should be there
for about five days

to put it back
into order.

Then there are tickets
for London after that.

England?

Yes, there is a meeting
of office managers.

You're gonna be there
as my eyes and my ears.

You can take notes,
use a recorder if you'd like.

But I expect
a detailed report.

Then you should be heading back
to the states in enough time

to make the conference

on sales and distribution
in D.C. next month.

No.

No?

W-What does that mean?

It means,
"no. I'm not going."

I quit.

Well, you can't quit.

People like us
are not quitters.

In a couple of years,
you'll be just like me!

No offense,
but that's what I'm afraid of.

Excuse me?

I'm sorry,
we're not open yet.

It's okay.
I can wait.

Johnny!

You should have told us
you were coming!

I didn't even
know myself.

I just started driving
and ended up here.

Isn't it funny
how that happens sometimes?

I don't if "funny"
is the word I'd use.

I had a feeling you'd find
your way back here.

You did?

Call it a mother's
intuition.

Well,
I just hope I'm not too late.

You know, in life, you may think
you know the outcome.

But really, it's all just
one big surprise.

I don't like surprises.

I don't even know
how he feels about me.

I may have just made
the biggest mistake of my life.

Your job?

I quit.

I was at Stafford
for 10 years,

and I barely saw the time
pass me by.

I didn't want to look up

and realize I'd lost
another 10 years.

Well, what do you plan
to do now?

Well, actually, I have a plan
to save your winery.

I thought you said
it would take some time

to find a distributor.

Well, normally, it would.

But I was staying in a high-end
hotel and corporate resort

when I first moved
to the bay area.

They have a small chain
of select hotels worldwide.

I spoke to the manager,

who put me in touch
with one of the owners,

and he was very receptive
to my idea

of carrying
your wine exclusively.

Really?

Yes.

So as of next year,

they will be using and selling
California oak wines

in all of their resorts
here and abroad.

We have to go tell
the guys!
How is Andrew?

Well, why don't you come
ask him yourself?

He's here?

Yeah. He and Luke drove up
for the weekend.

It seems things
are a little lonely in L.A.

I-I don't think
he would want to see me.

Only one way
to find that out.

How about the bacon
Mac and cheese tonight?

Lobster Mac.

What, do you think lobsters
grow on trees?

Dad, think you can afford
a lobster or two.

I have a feeling

we'll be able to afford
more than that pretty soon.

You came back!

Dad, Johnny's back!

Yeah,
I see that, champ.

Luke, why don't you and I
go find grandpa

and tell him that Johnny's here
for a visit?

All right.
I'll see you later, Johnny.

You bet you will.

You know, for some reason
that escapes me,

Luke has become very close
to you.

I don't want to
see him hurt.

Your family is very protective
of each other.

Why are you here?

The night
of the demonstration,

Debra told me that you turned
down the opportunity

to have your own
television show.

That's true.

Because you wanted to spend
more time with Luke.

Yeah,
that about sums it up.

I never felt that...

Until now.

Um...

There's something
I need to know.

What's that?

Do you...

Did you...

Miss me?

Luke missed you
very much.

I'm in love with you,
Andrew Browning,

and I really missed you...
A lot.

Really?

Really.

I guess I just need to know
how you feel.

All right.

Johnny!

Does that answer
your question?

What's all the ruckus abo--

Dad?

Does this mean
you're getting married?

Luke.

Well,
that's a good question, son.

Well? Does it?

Are you asking?

Yes, I am.

Absolutely...
Positively.

So, does that mean yes?

That's a Roger, 10-4,
captain.

All right!