♪
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♪ Jolly old St. Nicholas ♪
♪ Lean your ear this way ♪
Official YIFY movies site: YTS.MX
♪ Don't you tell a single soul ♪
♪ What I'm going to say ♪
Breakfast!
Thank you, sweetheart.
♪ Whisper what you'll bring to me ♪
♪ Tell me if you can ♪
What? I like when my breakfast smiles up at me.
[chuckling]
Wait, where are my glasses? Oh.
Oh, that's better.
Ems, this is some of the best work you've ever done!
Oh, can you imagine the publicity
you would get from this job?
The article showcasing your designs
in "Views From The Capital"?
That alone would launch your event design firm!
Clients would be banging down your door.
As much as I appreciate your unbridled support, mom,
I'm lucky to even have the interview.
And that's only because Katie is friends
with the executive assistant. It's a long shot.
So we should manage our expectations.
It's happening, baby girl.
All you have to do is let it.
To your clean bill of health from the doctor.
And to your interview today.
In which you will secure the job
of decorating the Belmarian Embassy
for the Christmas Charity Ball.
[glasses clinking]
And when you get the embassy gig--
If I get the embassy gig.
You are going to need shop and office space
so you can manage all the business it will bring.
Once again, getting ahead of ourselves.
Maybe you'll even meet some new people.
Take a little time for romance.
Romance?! Sure.
I'll just squeeze it in between designing the city's
biggest charity ball, and launching my own design firm.
I'll just put it on my Christmas list.
Do you think I can order a boyfriend online?
[laughing] You know...
Your dad always said Christmas isn't about opening presents.
It's about opening hearts.
Isn't it nice to have your breakfast smile up at you?
♪ Deck the halls with boughs of holly ♪
♪ Fa-la-la-la-la la-la-la-la ♪
While I love your voice, my little songbird,
isn't it a little early for Christmas songs?
Aunt Julia said that the Christmas Charity Ball
is the most magical ball she's ever been to.
Aunt Julia told you about the ball, did she?
All about it. The dancing, the lights, the decorations.
I see. While those things, are expected,
they are not what's truly important.
The ball is put on to raise funds for a charity
that supports environmentally sustainable practices
around the world. And that, dear child of mine,
might give our planet, and you, a future we all need.
So if the ball is for me,
then I should probably attend, correct?
Isn't it past your bedtime?
Please? It would be my first ball!
And surely such an important cause is worth one late night.
When did you become such a shrewd negotiator?
[giggling]
Okay. All right.
You may come on one condition.
That you save the first dance for me.
I promise.
I hope the other negotiators today aren't as shrewd as you.
[giggling]
I mean, you did cave pretty quickly.
I totally would have agreed to extra chores
or just about anything.
That is an excellent point.
Too late. We already settled the terms.
Amanda: Are you taking all of these to your presentation?
No, I just can't pick. I love them all.
I'll decide on my way there.
Okay, now on the off chance that I do get this job,
I have all of these at the ready so we can load the truck ASAP.
Promise me you won't overdo it.
You know, I think the only reason you asked me to help you
is so you can keep your eye on me.
That, and the fact that I learned more from you
about Christmas decorating than I ever did at design school.
[sighing] I really want this.
Well, my darling, you better go out and get it,
because I've already given your farm job away.
No pressure.
[laughing]
The ambassador is en route.
Why so early?
Because there is much work to do.
Good morning, everyone.
Welcome, Mr. Ambassador.
I'm looking forward to working with you.
Thank you, I'm sorry to be early,
but your office management is legendary.
I'm sure you began hours ago.
Days. Here's today's schedule.
A list of files we need to go over,
as well a list of--
Excuse me, um, what is that?
A poinsettia.
This is typically the week we like to start
getting into the spirit.
Mm-hm, that is not necessary.
I find these unnecessary flourishes to be distracting.
It is of utmost importance that we maintain
a dignified tone here. In this office,
we'll maintain decorum, not decor.
Karl, please take the flower to my desk.
- Right away. - You were saying, Ms. Coles?
Oh, yes. Today's schedule,
and a list on potential charity donors.
Mr. Ambassador!
Allow me to welcome you to your new Embassy.
Thank you, Arvid.
I'm excited to begin work on the Charity Ball.
Of course. The importance of the Christmas Charity Ball
cannot be underestimated. As you well know,
the crown expects each year's charity contributions
to surpass previous year's.
Not to suggest that your job is on the line
before you've even started.
Am I fired already, old friend?
I assure you, I am aware of the consequences
and the expectations.
You mentioned that the previous ambassador
had issues with priorities.
Yes, unfortunately, they had a tendency
to get overly consumed with the decorations
and the Christmas cheer.
Right, he overspent, which affected the numbers.
Imagine if he focused on the actual aim of the ball.
I want this to be the most successful Charity Ball to date,
and not based on the frivolities.
I want to begin building relationships
with all the major donors.
As it so happens, I know just the man.
A whale of a donor I've been trying to hook for years.
Once he heard about your work,
he finally agreed to join us.
How big a donation?
Well, big enough to give this charity global impact.
Excellent.
The queen is thrilled, of course, and rumor has it,
she may even come to the ball this year.
That's excellent news,
but we have much work to accomplish before then.
Arvid and I will focus on the publicity and the donors.
Since you've overseen the plans for the last several years,
you will have full authority to orchestrate all the details.
Of course, sir. Not to worry.
I already have "the ball" rolling.
- No pun intended. - Oh, pun fully intended.
All of the arrangements are under control,
from the magazine spread to the--
- well, the-- the ornaments. - Yes, speaking of,
we have a press conference later this morning.
It would be a good time for you to officially launch
the charity's donation website.
Mm-hm. Hang on, I'd like to discuss this society article.
How useful is it to the charity?
The magazine has been indispensable
for boosting donations.
Sir, I don't like having a society magazine here
anymore than you.
Things we must endure to remain relevant.
Fine, we'll keep it, but stick to the budget, okay?
I do not want to be linked
to the previous ambassador's overspending.
This charity is too important to be sullied by gossip.
I could not agree more.
Which is why I have insisted on full editorial control.
Belmarians maintain more formality than Americans.
Nothing can be published or printed without your approval.
Pardon me, Emily Barnes just checked in at the front gate.
Oh my, everybody's early.
Next you'll tell me Christmas is early.
Well, let's hope not.
If you'll excuse me.
♪
Does the new ambassador really mean no decorations?
He'll come around.
He practically grew up on a reindeer farm.
Oh, that's nice.
I love that you're early!
Oh my!
[sniffing]
Christmas is early.
Fresh-cut this morning.
[women chattering outside]
Vera: Inside this way.
Emily: Oh, the embassy is lovely.
It just needs a bit of Christmas spirit.
Vera: I couldn't agree more.
Please, come in.
Magnus, uh, if I may,
I've known you and your family so long
I feel like I've helped raise you.
I am so proud of how you've been handling everything.
I know Christmas can be difficult for you,
after Margerete...
She did love Christmas, yes.
Thankfully, I'm not the Christmas ambassador,
I'm just the Belmarian ambassador.
And it will be refreshing to see a return to propriety
to this office. Your father taught you well.
You had a hand in it too.
Well, please, let me know if there's anything else I can do.
I only want to see you succeed.
Thank you, Arvid.
I wouldn't be here without your trusted counsel.
Well, now, since we have time before our first meeting,
shall I give you a tour?
The embassy can be quite tricky.
It's very easy to get to get turned around.
Um, not necessary. I have some documents to review.
Plus, I need to learn my way on my own.
As you wish.
[clearing throat]
Um, sorry to say this,
but you seem more nervous than I am,
and I'm the one being interviewed.
- Is everything okay? - Yes, of course.
It's just...
There might be some people who don't think the embassy
needs to be decorated for Christmas.
A Christmas ball without decorations?
But it's the Belmarian Christmas Charity Ball!
It's the biggest event of the season!
Surely the new ambassador-- Oh! Is he the one?
Who is the new ambassador, Ebenezer Scrooge?
Oh, no, it's not really like that.
It's his first day,
and first days are always a bit more intense.
But it's not Christmas in Washington
without the beauty and the heart of the Belmarian Charity Ball.
I couldn't agree more.
Oh...
these designs are stunning.
And what is this? A map?
Emily: Oh, that's just for reference,
it's not really part of the presentation.
It should be, it's beautiful!
Thank you, it helps to have a bird's eye view.
It's stunning.
But, uh, unfortunately...
I have to level with you, Miss Barnes.
We usually hire a large firm.
I have a full staff of helpers,
and a detailed plan that covers contingencies.
If we stick to this plan,
we could have everything completed
by the media walk-through.
As part of the publicity,
there will be photographers capturing every step
of the embassy's transformation, and I must stress,
decorum is of the utmost importance to the ambassador.
Belmaria might be a small country,
compared to our northern neighbors, Denmark,
but he wants it, and especially our initiatives,
to be taken seriously.
I was drawn to this job
especially because of those initiatives.
Being raised on a tree farm taught me the importance
of planning for future generations.
My dad always used to say that harvesting Christmas trees
should be about renewing hope, not destroying forests.
Every one of my decorations can be reused and recycled.
You know what? You're hired.
Really?!
You've surprised and inspired me,
and I think that may just be what we need right now.
- Thank you! - Yes!
And what should we do regarding the...
"some people" who don't want too much Christmas
- at the Christmas ball? - Yes.
Well, I'm going to chock it up to first day jitters,
temporary myopia.
After the ambassador sees your elegant decorations,
all will be well, I'm sure.
Is there anything else you need to get started?
I got this.
[exhaling]
[cheering quietly]
Okay.
[line ringing]
- Tell me you got it. - Start loading the truck.
Congratulations, baby girl!
Okay, the truck's already loaded.
Mom, it's such a big job!
I'm worried this is going to be putting too much stress on you.
Okay, that's why we hired extra help.
Anyway, I'm gonna be at the embassy fluffing bows,
not here chopping down trees. So just take a deep breath,
and remember, the doctor gave me a clean bill of health.
- But you're my mom. - Your mom. Not your excuse.
I will not have you put your life on hold
with needless worry about me.
Okay? I just-- now just go get started.
I'll be there in 20 minutes.
And my heart is fine. Don't make me worry about yours.
Okay.
Oh!
I thought wreaths only went on the outside of the doors.
Why shouldn't they go on both sides?
Excellent logic. I'm Lily.
I'm Emily.
Are you as big a fan of Christmas decorations as I am?
- Maybe bigger. - Challenge accepted.
- Want to help me fluff bows? - Yes, please.
♪ Dashing through the snow ♪
♪ In a one horse open sleigh ♪
♪ Over the fields we go ♪
♪ Laughing all the way ♪
You have a lovely voice! Have you ever sung in a choir?
I did back home in Belmaria.
Have you thought of joining one while you're here?
If you'd be interested, I have a friend who directs
a children's community choir.
Really?
I'll give Vera the info.
Wow.
I wasn't sure my dad would allow all of this,
but this is just what he needs.
My tutor is here. I've got to go.
I know everything will be all right now that you're here
to bring the Christmas.
Vera?
Um...
- Oh! - Pardon me.
No harm done.
- Do you work here? - You could say that.
Yes, well, I'm supposed to be in the press gallery,
but I'm afraid I've lost my way.
Oh, okay. Um, you're here,
so this is the fastest route to where you want to be.
Mm-hm... that's a great map.
You've... is there a more standard version,
one that's not so decorated?
If so, I don't have one.
Oh, um, it's just...
I wouldn't want to give this to embassy visitors, is all.
Oh, I made this for my own personal use, so...
But I think it's artfully done.
- Yeah. - [chuckling]
Definitely, it's artfully done, yeah.
Thank you. My gift to you.
Ah. Thank you.
[chuckling]
Oh yeah, sweetie, you go ahead and take that box in.
I can wait and lead people in, this place can get confusing.
Oh, no, no, I have the map.
You go ahead and get started, we'll be right behind you.
I just need to find my glasses.
[muttering quietly]
Oh, there you are!
I was about to send out for a search party.
No need to worry. I got myself turned around,
- but found my way. - What is this?
Why, I never approved this design.
Oh, not to worry.
It's from this charming, um--
Anyway, uh, I'm still early, correct?
Yes, you are.
The reporters and photographers have arrived,
but before we begin, I would like to brief you--
- [Amanda yelps] - Arvid: Madam!
Oh! I am so sorry!
It's my first day, I'm--
Mine too.
Madam, I urge you to watch where you--
Okay, you know what? I'm headed to the ballroom,
and I just-- I know it's around here somewhere,
but I need to find my glasses.
Your glasses, madam, are on the top of your head.
[laughing] Oh, I always do that.
Oh! Well, it's right over there! I knew I was close.
- What is going on here? - We're with the decorator.
- Decorator? - Yeah.
The embassy is already beautiful enough.
Yes, but it still needs a little Christmas sparkle.
You know, to match the two of you.
- Oh... - Ballroom.
- I'll be right back. - Sir...
Okay, you could have just told me where the ballroom was.
Now look what you've done.
- Me?! - [groaning]
It's always the handsome ones.
Madam, I--
♪
Magnus: Excuse me, um--
You, the woman who put Christmas on the map.
[laughing]
Well, that's going on my website.
Yeah, you said you work here.
Oh, blue over there.
Well, as you can see, I am working here,
I'm the event decorator for the Charity Ball.
This needs to stop this instant, okay?
You know, all you need is a hook,
and then we could hang you on the tree like an ornament.
But like, an angry ornament,
so maybe up high and out of the way.
This is not a joke.
This is exactly what I don't want--
all this fuss and tinsel,
and this gaudy red and green hullabaloo, it's--
Hullaballoo? Nothing is even staged yet!
Look, if you have concerns,
take it up with the new ambassador.
I am the new ambassador, okay?
Emily: Oh.
Oh, Magnus. Magnus, let me introduce you
to the editor in chief of "Views From the Capital,"
the magazine that's going to be doing
the multi-page photo spread for the charity ball.
I mean no disrespect, Mr. Ambassador,
but how can you hold a Christmas Charity Ball
without Christmas decorations?
[camera lenses shuttering]
Uh, I'm sorry, Mr. Ambassador,
are you saying that this year's Christmas Charity Ball
is not going to be Christmassy?
[Magnus clearing throat]
What will my photographers take pictures of?
Of course not, um...
we are striving for a more dignified tone.
It's important to me that the glitz and the glamour
and the superficial elements not outshine the actual cause,
which is the charitable foundation.
I can assure you that the ambassador is pro-decoration.
In fact, he was just assisting me.
The proof is all over his suit jacket.
While some may consider Christmas decorating
to be superficial, the truth is that decorating
is a deeply meaningful custom
that represents our hearts, our families,
and even our cultures.
In short, there's a reason
Belmaria hosts the Charity Ball at Christmastime.
If we want people to open their hearts, and their wallets,
then we need to make this place shine...
No, it has to explode with sights of the season.
[camera lenses shuttering]
Why is everybody such a shrewd negotiator today?
♪
Oh, um, peace offering? It's a lint brush,
or as my mom calls it, a "glitter getter," for...
That was quite the maneuver back there.
I am so sorry, I had no idea when I walked in there hollering
that all of DC's press was there.
That's why I... I prefer if that in this embassy,
we always conduct ourselves in a respectful manner
so that we avoid those situations.
This is the reason why I didn't want
all these decorations and fanfare.
Look at the mess it's already gotten us into.
One could argue that I saved you
from the bigger embarrassing flub
of holding an underwhelming Charity Ball.
Well, there would have been zero embarrassing flubs
if you didn't begin accosting this place
- with Christmas this morning. - Which I was hired to do.
Your sentimental speech was affecting.
It certainly persuaded all the press,
and you, uh...
Cornered me into publicly committing to, um...
What was it? An explosion of Christmas, right?
In my defense, I was trying to help you.
Well, either way, it illuminated the point
that this Christmas-mania is a prerequisite
for all DC attendees.
So I will allow you to continue decorating the embassy,
but we must certainly downgrade from "explosion," okay?
- So back to "shine?" - How about "faint glimmer."
And I insist on minimal decor, only in public spaces.
Surely you'll want some minimal decor in the residence.
The minimalist of minimal.
Absolutely none in the private residence.
Do we understand each other?
I don't think so.
But we have a deal.
Well, to be clear, um,
you didn't win me over. You just cornered me.
Move out?!
Yeah, I think we should start looking at a timeline
for you to get back into your townhouse.
After the holidays, of course.
Here I was thinking that we were celebrating my new job
when really, you're pushing me out of the nest!
Well, no, it's more like I'm replanting you
in a larger pot so you can bloom.
How is that different?
Because it applies to both of us,
and if we just stay here in our one planter,
we're not going to grow.
And if there's one thing my recent health scare
has taught me, it's to make the most of the time we've got,
and to get on with life,
and you moving back into your townhouse
could make room for romance.
Maybe for both of us. You saw that handsome man today.
The ambassador is handsome, but I'd say a little closed off.
- I'm talking about Arvid. - Emily: Arvid?! Amanda!
And that new ambassador is your type.
- He's not my type. - He's everyone's type.
And don't act like you didn't notice!
Yes, I noticed. But no!
How could I be interested in someone who is so uptight?
Okay, sweetheart, you did color a bit outside the lines today.
Oh, speaking of coloring,
can you just tell me one more time
what your ideal commercial space looks like?
Ideally, I would like a mostly open space.
Um, somewhere with good foot traffic.
I'm imagining, um, an inviting storefront
with big windows that let in lots of natural light.
So some place little like this?
♪
Yes!
You want to take a closer look?
The realtor's a friend of mine. Come on!
Mother!
This is everything I've ever dreamed.
Including its proximity to our favorite lattes.
But shouldn't I look at some other places also?
Like, do some comparisons?
Sweetheart! If you find a prince on the first try,
you don't go around kissing frogs!
It's time for you to take a leap.
Are we still talking frogs?
[sighing]
I did take a leap, and I fell flat on my face.
That was the last time I got ahead of myself like this.
Well, you were dealing with word of mouth.
You have "Views From The Capital" now.
I need more time to think.
Well, well, well! You had a memorable first day!
Mr. Ambassador Snowflake, huh?
Queen Therese rechirped it.
Magnus: "Rechirped?"
Well, that's what she calls it.
And who's going to argue with the queen?
But what intrigued the queen the most
was that after the photo was posted,
traffic increased on the charity's website.
Let's face it, my dear brother, you are now clickbait,
and the more likes you get, the more money you raise.
Ah, but--
what intrigued me the most was this photo here.
Who might this be?
She's just, um, the decorator for the ball.
Julia: Oh, a decorator.
You don't normally invite decorators
to press conferences, do you?
She's just your type, you know.
Hey, come on. I don't have a type.
Oh, sure you do.
She's just an event decorator, all right?
She's already made a debacle of things, to be honest with you.
And let's just call it an eventful first day.
One that did a number on the respectability of the embassy.
And I... I can only imagine father's reaction.
Okay, I'm worried about you.
Especially now that you're paired with Arvid.
The two of you are like a dynamic duo,
except not dynamic.
[deep voice] A dignified duo.
I thought you called to support me.
I did! I just also remember the ten-year-old boy
who slept in the straw beside the reindeer,
and who brought the snowball fight inside
Grandma and Grandad's house.
Do you remember that kid? Have you seen him anywhere?
Look, unfortunately, we can't be ten years old forever.
No, but we can once in awhile.
Goodnight, sis.
♪
So Ems, how do we know if we're being minimal enough?
[sighing] I don't know.
I'm feeling it out as I go.
I just know I need to keep everything contained--
staying away from offices and conference rooms.
Glitter is on lockdown.
Oh! It looks like we have a visitor.
No classes today?
My tutor's been delayed, so I was told to amuse myself quietly
and not cause any trouble.
I wanted to thank you for encouraging me
to join the choir. We're going caroling.
Oh, that's great!
I'm sure you'll make lots of new friends.
I think so, too. This is amazing.
I feel like I'm in Santa's workshop.
Behind the scenes of Christmas Central.
- Want to be an elf? - May I?
Follow me. Come on.
Should we be spending so much time on our smaller donors?
I want to familiarize myself with all of the donors,
take everyone seriously.
Many are loyal, returning contributors
with valuable networks.
Speaking of your "whale", Dan--
- Dan Danvers, sir. - Right. I have an idea.
Do you think that we can push him a little more?
Perhaps get him to agree to an additional matching amount.
That will incentivize the little fish to give more too.
That's genius, but I'm not sure he'll go for it.
He is already planning a sizable donation, right.
Don't forget, he's benefitting from us as well.
See what you can do.
♪
I have something for you.
Perhaps you can take these with you when you go caroling.
And see these little nicks here?
These bells have been on a lot of adventures.
Rumor has it, they once belonged to one of Santa's reindeer.
My great grandparents had a reindeer farm, actually!
Wow!
Reminds me of someone I know.
[giggling]
Wait. Where is she going?
Sir, It's Her Majesty, Queen Therese.
She's not on the schedule.
Queen Therese: I can hear you, Magnus.
I can see you, too.
Can you not muster up a smile for your queen?
Of course. It's always a pleasure, Your Majesty.
Uh, I simply was not expecting you.
Queen Therese: This will be brief.
I hear you want to improve donor outreach.
Tell me, how is that coming along?
Well, first, I want to make sure the business practices align--
Dad! Look what Emily gave me!
Will you excuse me? Just one moment.
Wait, wait, is that Lily? What's that in her hand?
I suppose those are sleigh bells.
The bells are beautiful, Magnus.
As are you, dear one.
I'm sorry, Dad. I just got excited.
Am I in trouble?
No, you're not in trouble. Um--
I'm so sorry, she was helping--
[whispering] I'll be going.
Magnus, wait!
Is that the decorator?
You must introduce us.
Yes, of course, um...
Uh, Your Majesty,
the decorator, Emily Barnes.
Ms. Barnes, may I present Queen Therese.
It's an honor to meet you.
I see a distinct Belmarian influence
in your color palette.
I appreciate your efforts.
Thank you, Your Majesty.
I look forward to taking a closer look
when I'm there for the ball.
Oh, does that mean you've decided you're coming?
Don't sound so pleased.
Well, I-- I'm delighted, of course.
And I'm happy that you've got the Christmas spirit again.
I don't know if I'd go that far.
But apparently reminders of the Christmas season inspire giving,
so the decorations, they play an important part
in the charity's success. Or so I've been told.
Well, let's resume tomorrow.
Yes, of course, Your Majesty.
Again.
I'm so sorry.
Yes, great. Uh, just...
Less "Jingle Bells," more "Silent Night."
Okay.
Um, what is this? No, this can't go here.
There's no room for it. You need to talk to--
There's the woman who can fix this!
I don't know what this is, but I did not order it.
No, the ambassador did. I just learned about it myself.
It's a display board
that will keep track of our donation totals.
He wants you to have it hanging above the stage area.
Apparently it's non-negotiable.
So he opposes Christmas decorations
but he wants a scoreboard.
Well, he says it will be motivational,
inspirational, and...
apparently it can be programmed to explode confetti
when the total surpasses last year's.
I'm guessing he didn't see that detail.
Let's not mention it.
He said non-negotiable.
That he did.
Okay, all hands on deck!
We need to clear out this area in order to make space for...
This thing. Let's go!
Amanda: Oh, it is so early, Emily.
What are you doing up?
Oh! Are you going to go check out the storefront?
I'm heading into the embassy.
I want them to have at least one finished space
for the big meeting today with the donor.
Well, I'm sure the donor and the ambassador will understand
it's a work in progress.
I told him the decorations would inspire Christmas spirit
and giving. Time to prove it.
[chuckling]
You are your daddy's girl.
Always spreading Christmas spirit.
Trying to open up hearts.
Just don't take anything else on.
You have enough on your plate.
But that's another reason to go in early.
Opening hearts, sure,
but I should also be opening a design firm.
Turning this embassy into a showcase, even a minimal one,
is not only great for the charity,
but it kick starts my business.
One way or another, our futures are intertwined now.
We succeed or fail together.
You'll succeed.
Thank you, but you're my mother. You have to say that.
Yeah, maybe.
♪
- Magnus: Who's in here? - [gasping]
Sorry, I heard a noise, and...
- But it's you. - I checked in with security.
Yeah, I'm sorry I startled you. It's...
- What are-- - What are--
- You first. - I live here.
I'm decorating.
I know you have a big meeting today.
I wanted to give you a finished space,
so you can feel the spirit of the season,
and not the chaos of the set up.
That is-- that is very kind of you.
Especially considering I was such a bear the other day.
I just, um, I wasn't expecting so much.
It's a major job, decorating an embassy of this size.
Even minimally.
Yes, well, I owe you an apology.
- I understand. - No, no, please.
Um, it's one of the reasons why I'm up so early.
I was walking the halls, I couldn't sleep.
I mean, this was helpful,
but I do owe you an apology.
Apology accepted.
Thank you.
These are lovely.
Oh, um, that's just a...
potential logo for my potential design firm.
It's nothing.
Hey, I... I appreciate you respecting my wishes
to keep it minimal.
Well, since you're here, you might as well help out.
Me, decorate?
Well, the room's not going to decorate itself.
I see what the Queen meant by your Belmarian influence.
You've even worked the crest in here, that is--
it's very thoughtful.
I'm developing a new style.
It's called "lavish minimalism."
[chuckling]
Also all the decorations are environmentally friendly.
That's marvelous.
Your charity is one of the main reasons why I wanted this job.
I grew up on a tree farm. so it was instilled in me,
the importance to look beyond the next year.
To plant for the next decade, the next generation.
Ah, there you are!
I've been looking everywhere for you.
We really need to--
Are you... helping her decorate?
Am I grounded?
Sorry, Arvid has a tendency to forget
that I'm not 10 years old anymore.
I mean, my apologies, but you are the ambassador, sir.
Yeah, so it seems. But duty calls.
Should we have the donor meeting in your office
or in the conference room?
Actually, I think we should have it in here.
Are you sure? It's not... suitable.
I think you're wrong.
I think it's perfect.
Oh, Ems! This is just beautiful.
Everywhere you look, there's something delightful.
Thank you! Do you think the trees are too much here?
They won't stay, but I thought they'd make
- a welcoming impression-- - Yeah!
It's like a family greeting guests at the door.
From the door to the parlor, it's perfect.
Any donor who has any kind of heart will definitely
be touched by this.
[gasping]
I thought the kanelbullar reminded me of home,
but this-- this is too much.
Now Karl definitely has heart.
- Never in doubt. - [chuckling]
Well, she is a good decorator.
Indeed.
Stop wasting time.
The coffee service should be set up in there already.
Okay.
[clattering]
[crunching]
Well, I hope I didn't ruin Christmas.
- Mr. Danvers. - Call me Big Dan.
Arvid: Ah, Big Dan, excellent. Right this way.
- Who is that young lady? - The decorator.
- This way, sir. - Dan: Right...
I heard the glass crunch and I didn't know
- whether to come or stay away. - It's not too much damage,
I'll get someone to help clean up.
Okay.
♪
Hey, are you hiding?
The important donor is Dan Danvers.
Big Dan? The real estate developer?
Oh, Emily! He hasn't hugged a tree in his life!
What's he doing talking to this charity?
Maybe he's turned over a new leaf?
Not unless it's clearing the way for a new parking lot.
If Big Dan is the important donor they're counting on,
- you've got to talk to Magnus. - Who am I to say anything?
Since when have you been known to stay quiet?
Okay, that's true.
But I'm sure they've done their research,
and there's too much on the line for me.
I've only just made nice with the ambassador again.
Oh, made nice, huh?
I'm going to stick to my job.
Well, you've got a lot of gumption to look at my offer
and come back and ask for more.
But by golly, I think we can do a lot of good together.
I'm sure we will.
You mind if I use your facilities before I go?
Oh, of course, sir. Right this way.
No, no, I'm a big boy.
Just point me in the right direction.
Ah, yes, up the stairs on the right.
Gentlemen.
Hmm...
I thought I recognized you.
Hello, Mr. Danvers.
Emily, how many times do I have to tell you to call me Big Dan?
- Everybody does. - Are you sure about him?
Well, I'm sure he's very rich and wants to give us more money
than any single donor we've ever had.
I don't hold a grudge against you
ruining my deal with your mama.
I know it was fresh on your daddy's passing,
and you weren't thinking clearly.
His manner, it's-- he's so...
American, sir?
No, um, over the top.
Why are you really here?
Besides my undying commitment to Mother Earth?
[scoffing]
The publicity alone makes this endeavor
a worthwhile investment.
And the tax benefits make it cheaper than advertising.
So you've got some bad press coming?
Wouldn't know anything about that.
And I'd be sure that you keep that to yourself.
I'll be right back.
Ah, looks like I needed help finding my way after all.
Second door on your way.
Much obliged. Young lady.
Everything okay?
Just finished with the garland,
I'll be back to add some more ribbon.
Have you two met before?
I have met Mr. Danvers, years ago.
His file reads like a local hero.
Saving farms, being everybody's buddy.
But you, you don't call him Big Dan?
He's not my buddy. That's all.
♪
Arvid, how thoroughly did you investigate Big Dan?
What else do we need to know?
Well, he wants to do a photo-op where he hands me a big check.
Well, it's great publicity for the charity, so why not?
I know how excited you are about this big get.
Just... why is he interested in our charity now?
Because he's so impressed with you,
you have a stellar reputation!
Right, and that's currency in itself.
Does this have anything to do with Ms. Barnes?
No, of course not.
Hmm. You seem a touch protective.
I-- I'm just trying to suss out Mr. Danvers.
If you were thinking of opening your heart again,
you would find few who would be as happy as me to see that,
but with everything that's at stake,
with the success of the charity ball
and the commencement of your tenure here,
there may be a different, better time,
and, uh, a different...
more suitable person.
[sighing]
♪
Look, daddy!
These flowers are the ones that grandmother grew in her garden.
Really?
Flowers from my homeland.
They weren't exactly in season,
so I had to order them from a domestic nursery,
but yes, I chose them because they're common in Belmaria.
Or so my research indicated.
Well, the yellow varieties are.
The white varieties are far more rare.
They were my mother's favorite.
So then these decorations
wouldn't be considered superficial?
No, I would say that they're very, very deep.
Profound, even.
I tried to convince Emily to help me put a tree in my room,
but she wanted to be good and follow the rules.
I appreciate you respecting my wishes,
but, um, I don't suppose I see the harm
in putting one of these in your room.
Really?!
How could I deny something that makes you smile that big?
♪
Checking up on me?
Actually, I'm looking for Lily, she seems to be drawn to you.
Aww, she's drawn to the Christmas fun.
Speaking of. Careful there, little elf!
Oh, I hope you two have a splendid time.
The capital is so beautiful this time of year.
Yeah, Um, shall we?
Amanda: Hey, sweetie--
It's too bad Emily can't come with us, daddy.
I bet she'd be a splendid tour guide.
You know what, my little songbird?
You make an excellent point.
Um, Ms. Barnes, would you care to join us?
Oh, that would be wonderful!
But there's so much to do here.
Well, Lily just made an excellent point.
We need a tour guide.
We wouldn't want to get lost in our new city, you know?
Causing some sort of international crisis.
Sir, I can find someone from the staff to accompany you.
No, no, Arvid, that won't be-- that's not necessary.
I would love it if Emily would join us.
Go on, sweetheart! I've got this.
Think of it as Christmas inspiration.
How can I pass up a chance to show Lily around my hometown?
- Okay, you got it? - Yeah, I've got it!
You know, Arvid, if you're concerned about propriety,
we could always chaperone.
Madam! I-- [stammering]
I have work to do.
You know, all work and no play
makes Santa question your priorities.
What? I...
Oh, that woman!
[camera shuttering]
No, no! No, no, no!
No, no, no!
Are you sure us being out here gallivanting about
won't reflect poorly on the embassy?
Gallivanting? [chuckling]
I promised my daughter
I'd take her to see the city at Christmas.
Now I don't know how that reflects on me as an ambassador,
but not coming would reflect poorly on me as a father.
That's sweet.
I'm adding this to my list
of favorite Christmas memories ever.
- Really? - Yes!
Everything is new again.
What's your favorite Christmas memory, daddy?
Oh, no, no, no. I couldn't follow that.
That means you're up, Emily.
Oh, is that how it works, huh?
Okay. [sighing]
My favorite memory is when I was a child,
attending a candle light service with a choir.
The lights were dimmed, and so the candle light
sparkled on the decorations,
and when the choir invited everyone to sing,
I felt like I was joining a chorus of angels.
That's beautiful.
Did you really grow up on a reindeer farm?
No, who told you that?
- [all laughing] - People talk.
My grandparents had a farm. I did visit often.
Did you spend Christmas there?
Um, you know that song about children spying
to see if reindeer really knew how to fly?
Uh, one year, I think I might have been ten,
I did exactly that.
What did you do?
Well, grandfather and grandmother tucked me in.
I waited until they were fast asleep,
and then I put on all my clothes and I snuck outside.
And I was determined to watch the reindeer all night long.
And did you see them fly?
Alas, no. No.
Grandfather found me the next morning in the barn,
asleep on a stack of hay.
[laughing]
Sadly, my findings were inconclusive.
That's a good Christmas memory.
Magnus: Thank you.
Don't you get any ideas, okay?
♪
Magnus: Wow, this is stunning.
This is how Washington reminds me of home.
History and tradition are present and important
and woven into the fabric of everyday life.
It's stately.
Yes, stately and dignified. Your favorite things.
These, um, ideals,
they were impressed upon me by my father.
You know, he was-- he was a farm boy
who worked his way to university and all the way up
through to a career in service of queen and country.
He wasn't exactly welcomed by the nobility,
so he felt that he constantly had to prove himself
just to be accepted.
So he had to maintain even higher standards of decorum?
The highest, yes.
My mother would try to tell him that Queen Therese
most likely trusted him precisely because
he lived outside the nobility. He never believed that.
All he saw was how he stood out.
Arvid was the only one of the Queen's staff
who actually befriended him and helped him learn the ropes.
- Which fork to use. - Amongst other things.
Tradition is important.
And there's good reasons for propriety and protocol.
[all laughing]
Oh, sweetheart, it is on!
♪
Ah! Just the man I'm looking for.
Oh, I wasn't aware we had a meeting.
We didn't, but it seems your ambassador
is dragging his feet on signing our deal.
Oh, no, no, not at all. Just a formal process--
I have the feeling that you're the type of guy
that likes to know what problems may arise ahead of time
so you're not surprised by them.
Yes, I certainly do like to avoid calamity.
Especially anything that might disrupt your generous donation.
Then we're on the same page.
Now it may be nothing,
but it is possible that your little decorator lady
may try to cause some trouble for me, for us.
Ms. Barnes? No, no, no. She's harmless.
Unless you're an undecorated bannister.
[chuckling]
Well, she may have the wrong idea about me.
After her daddy died, I tried to buy her family's tree farm.
I offered them a generous amount and her mama accepted,
verbally, but by the time she came to sign the contracts,
that young lady had talked her out of it,
and convinced her mama of all kinds of lies about me.
Outlandish lies.
Well, I'm sorry to hear that,
but luckily the decorator is just the decorator,
and she will be gone in a few days.
Well, just in case she has anybody's ear,
wouldn't want her to poison the well.
I bear her no ill will. Just thought you should know.
Thank you for letting me know.
Keep up the good work, Alfred.
Thank you.
- How was it, sir? - Magnificent.
Oh, sorry.
How did you find the capital, young lady?
So fun! I totally beat daddy in that snowball fight.
Yes, and don't let anyone tell you any different.
Lily, your tutor is waiting for you inside.
Bye!
Emily, this is very short notice,
but the staff Christmas dinner is this evening,
and we'd love for you and your mother to attend.
Oh, um, that would be wonderful!
But I don't want to be an intrusion.
No, no, it's no intrusion.
You're a member of the staff. Isn't that right, Arvid?
Uh, well, I suppose you could technically say
she works here.
We share the same first day, after all.
[laughing]
Uh, Arvid, why don't you catch me up on this afternoon?
Yes, sir, yes. I had a good meeting.
- See you tonight! - Thank you!
[sighing]
♪
I'll be back in a minute.
- You look nice. - Thank you.
And thank you again for including
my mother and I tonight.
Of course, I love watching your relationship.
- It reminds me of home. - Emily: That's sweet.
Ah-ah-ah! They are just talking.
Maintaining the highest levels of decorum.
Madam, my seat is at the--
Your seat, I believe, is right here.
You, madam, are not to be trusted.
Then you, sir, better keep an eye on me.
Do you think we should separate those two?
Actually, I prefer this seating arrangement.
♪
Everything is so beautiful.
I have to admit, I've never been to an embassy dinner.
Well, I hope you enjoy it.
The chef has gone all out.
Well, apparently there's going to be a fish course.
Look at you! Your first embassy dinner,
you already know which fork to use.
Of course, formal dinners and etiquette
are an important part of event design.
Well, I will drink to that.
What do you have against Emily?
What? Well, nothing! She's--
It's just that... Magnus is like a son to me.
You know, Arvid,
Emily is not just a daughter to me.
She's one of the finest people I know.
And I'm not just saying that
because I'm like a mother to her.
I've known Magnus since before his first assignment
at the embassy in Paris.
I've watched him rise through the ranks.
He's lost so much in his life already.
I want to protect him.
You know, you have a crunchy outside.
But you have a sweet, gooey center, don't you?
Oh! [chuckling]
♪
So tell me about your charity.
I love the work that it does, at home and abroad.
It gives citizens the means and support
to transform their farms and their businesses
into more sustainable models.
Yes, I believe that most people are willing to change,
so long as they have the support to do it.
Magnus: Exactly.
This charity, it's one of the reasons
why I went into the foreign service.
Not just to make a difference in Belmaria,
but in the world.
And that must sound rather lofty.
No, not at all. That sounds fantastic.
Plus, you're actually doing it.
You are too. I mean, you're going after your goal.
Emily: Trying to.
You want an event design firm of your own?
You want the lofty version?
I wouldn't settle for less.
[sighing]
I want to make artistic design affordable and sustainable,
so more people can celebrate the events of their lives,
and feel special among inspired art.
All that while giving back to the planet.
You're going to be a success, Emily.
Your joy, your thoughtfulness,
it's infectious.
Um, in a good way, of course.
Are you suggesting that you're feeling the Christmas spirit?
Maybe minimal Christmas spirit?
It's probably evident to you that Christmas
is challenging for me.
I'm afraid that I may have inadvertently trampled
all over the season for Lily.
I want to make Christmas special for her, you know?
Especially after moving her across the world.
I think I can help with that.
[glasses clinking]
♪
Wow.
Welcome! What a beautiful day.
Come on, let's go.
♪
[horse whinnying]
Those trees will be ready for harvesting next year.
Did you know it takes seven years to grow a Christmas tree
over six feet tall?
Seven years? So you were planting those
when I was just learning to walk?
- Pretty much! - That's not fair!
They grow a lot faster than me.
Well, you're growing fast enough for me.
♪
- [horse whinnying] - Welcome back, everyone!
- Did you have fun? - Yes!
All right.
♪
I have some nice mulled cider
warmed up for everyone.
Thank you.
Amanda: There you go.
You know what? I am so far behind
on my Christmas preparation,
and I really need to bake some cookies.
Does anyone here want to help me?
Uh, I would!
- Good! - May I?
Of course, yes. But please don't rope me into it.
Cookie-baking is beyond my skillset.
But he makes great blueberry pancakes, though.
He uses the blueberries to make a smile.
Oh! That's what Emily does!
Why shouldn't your breakfast smile up at you?
- Exactly. - [laughing]
Come on, sweetheart.
So if you're not into making cookies,
how are you at roasting chestnuts?
People actually do that?
- Oh, yes. - Yes, I'm in.
All right.
♪
Okay, so find the round part, then you're going to score an X.
Yeah.
Yeah, very good.
Then you put it X-side up.
And now we are just 10 minutes away
from buttery, nutty goodness.
I'm really touched by your mother's thoughtfulness
with Lily. It's very sweet.
My mom is the best.
I've been so worried about her.
Worried? Why? She's so vivacious.
[Emily laughing]
Are you trying to say that she's a force of nature?
Well, in a good way.
No, no, she absolutely is.
And she's been telling me not to worry about her,
but it was her heart.
I pressed pause on my design work,
and my whole life, really, and I moved in here
to look after her and the farm,
and now she has a clean bill of health from the doctor,
and I know I should move on.
Magnus: Start your own design firm.
Yes. I... I tried once.
Before all of this.
I signed a big lease, I took out a business loan.
I called in all my favors,
I put my all into a few projects.
And I did amazing.
But it didn't matter.
I couldn't gain the momentum,
my small operation was too small.
But now you've got the charity ball,
and "Views From The Capital," right?
It could be momentum.
My mom even found a space for when the business rolls in.
And it's perfect.
But for some reason I'm hesitant
to actually commit and make it all real.
Maybe you're protecting yourself from something.
Huh.
My wife, um, Margerete,
she, uh, she loved Christmas.
She always made it the most joyous occasion, you know?
She's been gone over five years now,
and, uh, I have not celebrated it since.
Until this year.
You, you taught me that there is a lot to love about Christmas.
Maybe you've been wrapping yourself
in a little bit of bubble wrap, too.
Well, um... [chuckling]
You said that your life feels like it's on pause?
Maybe you should press play.
- [laughing] - Touché.
[laughing]
Oh!
Oh, wow, look at those.
- Now comes the hardest part. - What's that?
We have to wait for them to cool.
I can handle that.
♪
Okay, I don't want you to get too excited--
You're not the boss of me, and I'm already excited. What?
I finally called about the space.
- Yes! - I'm gonna sign the lease.
- Oh! - That is,
if it's still available.
Both: So let's not get ahead of ourselves.
I'm so proud of you, baby girl. That's great.
But when you said you had good news,
I was thinking it might be more along romantic type--
Oh, that's good. That's good.
- Mr. Ambassador. - I'm not interrupting, am I?
No.
I wanted to talk to you about Dan Danvers.
I got the paperwork, but, uh,
I just can't bring myself to sign it.
Usually I rely on logic over my instincts,
and yet...
Trust your instincts. Dig deeper.
And don't wait around for him.
You know, our farm is part of an online community
of like-minded farmers.
I can give you contacts of people
equally as passionate as you.
Yes, that would be very helpful.
You might not get the big fish,
but you might get a bunch of little ones.
Magnus: There are a lot of great potential connections
- on this list. - Yes.
The list is a very cute gesture. But what will it get you?
Five dollars here? 10 dollars there?
Well, you never know, Arvid.
I try not to underestimate people.
Speaking of not underestimating people,
I think we should sign the deal with Big Dan today.
There's no way we can surpass last year's total without him
and we're being cavalier by dawdling.
I had Vera do some research on Danvers.
Is this about Ms. Barnes? Has she said something?
I'm simply doing my job, finding out who I'm associating with.
Well, actually I was debating whether or not to bring this up.
This is exactly what we were trying to avoid.
Gossip.
Like it or not, pictures like these have the potential
to sully the message of the charity.
I just hope the queen won't be upset.
This is not how things are done in Belmaria.
Well, we can't control everything the media says
about us, and these photos, they reveal nothing.
- But you're leaning in! - "Leaning in?"
Are you serious?
All right, forget about what the media supposes.
I know you, and I see what's happening.
I care about you too much to not say anything.
Magnus, you must remember, you represent the crown.
If not for your sake, then for Lily's.
I know you mean well, but being around Emily
is the happiest that Lily has been since her mother passed.
I see that too, I suppose I even see it with you,
but this is something that is ultimately seasonal.
You've been swept up in the magic, it's understandable.
But you know you have not been focused.
Magnus, I-- I know what this job and this charity mean to you
and for Lily's future.
Your work is the thing that has held you together
these past five years.
This-- this interlude with Ms. Barnes
without a doubt will hurt everything
that you have been working towards.
It's just the way of the world.
[sighing]
Emily, um--
Oh. Do you need help finding the small conference room?
I was just calling back to our first day.
You know, when I was the person who put Christmas on the map.
Yeah, right. Um...
You're here late.
Just making sure everything is good before the walk-through.
Everything will be on schedule, right?
Of course! We're on schedule, and I never miss a deadline.
Is everything okay?
Yeah, of course. Um, it's just the media walk-through
and the charity ball are fast approaching,
so I just want to make sure everything is presentable.
I think you know it will be more than presentable.
Uh, I wanted to tell you.
I called the realtor about the commercial space.
I decided to hit play.
That's great. That is, uh, very brave of you.
You are-- you're gonna do amazing things, Emily.
I really should be on my way.
Bye.
♪
Julia: You look rough, brother.
Well, I just endured an Arvid lecture.
Let me guess. Does it have something to do
with the photos I saw from the staff dinner?
It looks like the "not your type" decorator
from the press conference was in attendance.
You're like Belmarian TMZ.
Yes, that's-- that's Emily.
Um... we're not suited.
Your countenance says otherwise.
No, Arvid is just telling me the hard truth
that I need to hear.
There's too much at stake here to feed into unseemly gossip.
You know, what would people think if I was spending
too much of the donation money on decorations?
Imagine what they would think if I was actually
dating the decorator?
I think you might be finding every excuse you can
to not open up your heart again.
Oh, come on, my job's not an excuse.
Julia: No, I'm not talking about your job.
I'm talking about all the decorum.
Dad means well, Arvid means well.
But what does Magnus want?
I want for the charity ball to be a record success.
Well I look forward to seeing you there, then.
One more thing.
If you don't have feelings for this lovely decorator,
be honest with her, and let her go.
I can see a lot in these photos,
and I can tell she is quite smitten.
- Good night, sis. - Good night.
♪
[exhaling] Signed, sealed, and delivered.
Oh, I am so excited for you, sweetheart.
And with the media walk-through tomorrow, this is--
this is perfect timing.
♪
Good morning, Emily!
We've had a-- well,
a slight change in plans.
Sorry, what is going on?
The media walk-through has been moved up.
I've never heard of anything like this before.
They said there was a last minute
superseding event tomorrow.
- Sounds like Big Dan. - Oh, that's ridiculous.
Why would he sabotage an event for which he's a donor?
'Cause this doesn't sabotage the actual event,
it sabotages the publicity, which sabotages me.
Why would he care about sabotaging you?
Well, it doesn't matter how or why it happened.
We need to pull together and help each other out.
You're right, we were 100% on schedule to finish tomorrow.
Now we just need a little extra hustle.
- We can do this. - Excellent.
Vera, go round up any staff that may have a spare moment.
Emily, I trust that you have all your helpers on deck?
- I'll round them up. - Excellent.
We are going to get this place decorated.
- Even you, Arvid. - What? This is madness.
Look, worst case scenario,
they photograph the rest of the embassy.
Best case, we get finished and they're welcome in here as well.
You're forgetting we have the photo-op with Mr. Danvers.
No, I canceled it. Emily was right.
If I took a photo with Big Dan, it would legitimize him
and I'd look like a fool.
Sir, if you don't reach the contribution goal,
you could lose your job.
Arvid, I'd rather keep my integrity than my job.
Have faith, old friend.
We still have plenty of time to gain other donors.
Now do you want to unwrap the decorations,
or fluff the bows?
[Arvid groaning]
♪
So I think we deliberately save this tree
to let guests at the ball help decorate it.
That's a brilliant idea.
No, the guests will love it.
It's a beautiful tree even bare, if I do say so myself.
Well aren't you the talented bow fluffer.
[chuckling nervously] Madam.
Well, if it's worth doing, it's worth doing right.
Indeed.
Well, um, we need to prepare for the meeting.
I understand, we'll be out of here
well before the event starts.
No, I mean, um, that's not what I mean.
What I'm trying to say is,
would you be my official hostess for the ball?
Hostess? Like, Maître D'?
No, no, no. Um, my guest.
It's only fitting that you be in the photos with all your work,
and you and your mother, you deserve to celebrate in style.
Those sound like perfectly good reasons.
Of course, I'd love to.
Excellent. I should get going.
Good luck finding new donors.
This is exactly what I was afraid of. Look at these!
Magnus: It's a beautiful photo spread.
Beautiful? These pictures tell a story,
a very romantic story about you and a certain Ms. Barnes.
Magnus: Yes, I see the story they're telling.
This spread is not about the charity!
It isn't even about you as the new ambassador,
and it is in poor taste.
I suggest canceling the article.
You have a tendency to overreact, Arvid,
so let's just hang on.
Emily's new business is depending on the publicity
from the magazine.
Yes, it is very kind of you to consider her.
She has done a lovely job, and is a lovely person.
But this magazine is blatantly embellishing the story
between the two of you just to sell more copies!
The queen cannot see this.
You're right. They do tell a story.
Well, shall I cancel the article?
No, no, I'll take care of it.
As always, you are right, Arvid,
and thank you for pointing out what was right in front of me.
You're doing the right thing, sir.
I will see you at the ball.
Didn't I tell you? Everything is working out.
The queen is here. A beautifully decorated embassy.
A new business!
A healthy mom in her dancing shoes.
A new romance!
You know, you are going to be turning everyone's heads
at the ball tonight.
I know I say this a lot,
but we really shouldn't get ahead of ourselves on this one.
He may just need a hostess for the event.
Anyway, something--
something clicked off last night.
It's like, it's like he decided to put his heart
back into bubble wrap or something.
Okay, I may have picked up your knack for awkward metaphors.
Listen, Christmas is about opening hearts,
and Magnus's heart is now open.
- You really think so? - Mm-hm.
Because I'm pretty sure I'm falling for him.
Oh, honey, I'm so happy for you.
I'll see you tonight.
[exhaling]
I can't believe you're this excited about Christmas again.
- I'm so happy. - I am too.
It's Emily, isn't it?
She brought Christmas back to us.
She really did.
The queen is here.
Isn't it beautiful?
Mm, I've never been to a more splendidly decorated ball.
Neither have I. Even better than the palace.
Ah.
♪
Excuse me.
♪
It's a pleasure to meet you in person.
You did a magnificent job.
Thank you, Your Majesty.
Magnus, what are you waiting for?
Yes, of course. Shall we?
- You look radiant. - Thank you.
You look rather radiant yourself tonight.
Thank you. The tree decorating was a big hit.
There you are!
Oh, I'm so glad you made it!
Julia, this is my-- this is Emily.
Emily, this is my sister, Julia.
Oh, it's a pleasure to meet you.
It is so lovely to meet you.
The work you've done here is absolutely breathtaking.
- Minus the scoreboard. - That was me.
- I figured. - [laughing]
Emily! Do you want to help me pick an ornament for the tree?
Of course!
♪
Merry Christmas, ladies.
This evening is off to a wonderful start.
Yes, although...
We still have quite a ways to go
to reach our fundraising goal.
I saw you met Emily.
Julia: I did, she is so lovely.
I thought for awhile there might be something
going on between her and Magnus,
but he confirmed with me the other night that there is not.
He still hasn't fully recovered from Margerete's death.
I sometimes wonder if he ever will.
Anyway, the decor is just simply stunning.
Vera: Yes.
You sent the photos in, didn't you.
What are you talking about?
These.
I don't remember any of these pictures being taken.
That's immaterial! What matters is that you sent them,
even after Magnus told them not to print them!
I don't know what you're talking about.
I didn't send those pictures.
I know you are trying to gain traction and recognition
for your career, you're scrappy.
But you have not given any thought
to how this can affect Magnus or Lily.
- I would never hurt-- - Not intentionally!
But people talk,
and photos like these set tongues wagging.
Now it may not be a big deal here,
but this is seen differently in Belmaria.
The fall out will affect both of your careers for the worse.
Look, your work here is beautiful,
you have a gift.
But the best thing for everyone is if you take the good press
you already have, and leave quietly.
I didn't send those pictures.
And I would never do anything to hurt Magnus or Lily.
In fact, I was already on my way out.
So this was pointless.
I have to go.
I'm ready to sign the contract,
but I have added one little clause.
[scoffing]
You think I'm going to sign this?
Does it not uphold the values that you've claimed to us
so boisterously?
Apparently if you don't get my money,
you don't keep your job.
So what you don't seem to get
is that you need me more than I need you.
What I need is my integrity, not my job.
Sign it, or our business is done.
[chuckling]
[clicking tongue]
We'll just see what your queen says about it.
[sniffling]
Emily, sweetheart, what's wrong?
[gulping]
Magnus's heart isn't open. It never was.
You need to talk to him.
Where is Emily?
Well, I just confronted her about sending in the photos.
- She denies it, of course. - What are you talking about?
I'm sure we'll need to do some damage control
- with the queen. - Arvid, where is she?
Well, she was on her way out when we spoke.
Arvid, you have it all wrong.
Emily did not release the photos, I did.
You? But why? It's pure gossip.
It is not gossip if it's true.
Emily is amazing, and the whole world should know it.
And that's what those pictures do.
I am so sorry, I was trying to look after you.
I-- I didn't realize the depth of your feelings.
Honestly, I was afraid that you might never feel that way again.
I thought so too, but I do.
And Lily adores her.
I can't deny my feelings,
even if it means losing the respect of the queen.
The queen would not stand in the way of romance.
♪
Thank goodness you're still here.
Look, I really need to talk to you.
Arvid! We need to talk!
You have every right to be upset,
I was wrong and I'm sorry.
I didn't think Magnus's heart was involved, but it is.
I realize that there is nothing more unsuitable
than a broken heart.
Oh, okay.
Good talk.
I didn't send the pictures,
but I don't want to do anymore damage.
If I hurt the charity, or Lily, or your career,
I'll never forgive myself, and the fall out will hit me too.
I'll be bad news, no one will want to hire me.
But please believe me, I had no idea
what pictures the photographer even had.
I know.
You've been so wonderful, Magnus.
I never would have had the follow-through
to establish my firm if you hadn't encouraged me
- to push the play button. - Arvid overreacted.
I know you didn't send the photos, I did.
- You? - Yes.
I could have insisted they use the other ones,
but the editor was right. They tell a great story,
and they showcase the brilliance of your work all in one.
Well, that's great publicity, but I don't want it
at the expense of the charity or you.
- And Big Dan-- - Don't worry about Big Dan.
Queen Therese: Magnus?
Can you explain what is happening here?
Yes, Your Majesty, fire me if you must,
but I will not expect donations that are little more
than bribes, and I will not sully my name
or the name of the charity by associating with that man.
- Do you see? - I do.
Good.
It's time for you to leave.
What?
You're gonna take his word?
I trust his integrity above all else.
I'll show myself out.
[guests cheering]
♪
Before I got interrupted,
what I wanted to say was that--
[loud popping]
[guests cheering]
Emily!
Your network came through big time!
And they became especially generous
when I tweeted that we dropped Dan Danvers from our roster.
The numbers have been rising steadily since.
All the little fish!
The thing you have to remember, Arvid,
is Christmas isn't about opening presents.
It's about opening hearts.
Madam, it even opened mine.
Merry Christmas.
Thank you for celebrating with us this evening.
And thank you for all your generous donations.
I am happy to announce that we have met our goal.
[guests applauding]
I am deeply touched that so many of you
support a cause that is near to my heart.
Now many of you know me
for my efforts in maintaining decorum.
But if you'll indulge me,
I'd like to show you a different side.
First,
I want to thank a very special person, Emily Barnes,
who is the reason this event is so magical this evening,
and who transformed this embassy
into a warm holiday home.
I hope you all enjoy what I've arranged for her this evening.
[choir singing in foreign language]
♪
♪ We wish you a Merry Christmas ♪
♪ And a Happy New Year ♪
♪ We wish you a Merry Christmas ♪
You recreated my favorite memory.
♪ We wish you a Merry Christmas ♪
♪ And a Happy New Year ♪
♪ We wish you a Merry Christmas ♪
Just wait right there.
♪ We wish you a Merry Christmas ♪
This is for you.
Wrapped it myself. Lily supervised, of course.
♪
It's from my home, I want you to have it.
I thought you'd never give your heart away again.
Nor did I.
But I was wrong.
Emily, you are everything that I need and want in my life.
And in Lily's.
Merry Christmas, Mr. Ambassador.
I think we can dispense with the decorum.
♪