>>Mmmm, Dash, I am not getting up
till the alarm clock goes off.
>>Good morning.
Can you believe it's already December?
Wow, how the holiday's sneak up on you.
I could have sworn, last week it was just Thanksgiving.
Here's a Christmas song that you are going to love.
>>All right, all right, I'm up.
The raindrops falling on my face invite
my soul to take a taste as thunder spreads its wings
into the space of me.
I tilt my head toward the sky
and laugh out loud as cars go by.
It's been so long since I have felt alive inside.
I'm free to jump, I'm free to fall,
free to let it roll away when I drop the ball.
I'm not ashamed to brake down and cry so come on,
precaution, take a step aside,
'cuz you see it's boring, it's teaching me to fly.
There's a breeze that's blowing past my door
and it's bringing change like I have never known before.
It used to be that when it rained it poured.
Not any more so give me more, cus I'm free to jump,
I'm free to fall, free to let it roll away
when I drop the ball.
I'm not ashamed to brake down and cry,
so come on precaution, take a step aside,
because you see it's boring.
>>Hi. This message is for Ms. Hendrix.
It's Ashley and my water went out again.
Do you know when it will be back on?
Maybe Mr. Hendrix could help?
Please give me a call. Thanks.
Dash, I'm sorry.
I'll bring you home some bottled water,
okay, I got to go.
Morning, Nick.
>>Morning, Ashley.
Get your Christmas tree yet?
>>It's barely December.
>>Nothing wrong with getting a jump-start,
only comes once a year.
>>So does hurricane season.
So were you off to.
>>Oh, I got to go to a friends across town.
Bus takes an hour and a half.
You?
>>Job interview at 8:30.
>>You better hustle.
>>Meet you at the diner?
>>Count on it.
>>Come on.
The bus.
>>Who cares what Forslink is saying?
Look, I know what I heard.
I've got the tapes to prove it.
Clare did the fact checking, everything came back clean.
All right.
I'm right around the corner.
>>Oh, my gosh. I am sorry.
>>I'm sorry.
>>Are you okay?
>>Yeah, are you?
>>Yeah, yeah, yeah, yeah no.
Sorry, again.
>>It's okay.
With the day I'm having a train will hit me next.
>>Ashley Matthews.
Job hunting?
>>Yeah. I got to catch the bus.
>>Nice to meet you.
[ringing]
Oh, hey you.
Hello?
No, she's not here right now.
I'll make sure she gets that message.
Morning.
>>You selfish conniving, jerk.
>>Francine, good morning.
I see we're picking up right where we left off.
>>You just can't resist the chance to slander someone.
>>Oh, fancy lawyer talk.
Actually, councilor, slander is verbal.
Libel is written.
>>Fine, well don't get me sidetracked.
>>To easy.
>>Forslink is not happy.
>>So?
>>You know, I don't know why Bob
continues to print your stories.
>>Because they're good and they sell more magazines,
which I believe is the point, don't you?
>>Pat yourself on the back all you want.
You screwed up.
>>Screwed up?
>>Please, you act so innocent.
Could you just be a man for once and own up to what you did?
>>I write what I want.
>>That's for sure.
>>If you have a problem with that,
because it makes you do your job, deal with it.
>>Have you even heard one word I've said?
>>Not really, I've gotten very good at tuning you out.
Francy, if you have a problem with the story,
take it up with Bob.
He obviously felt it was fine enough to print.
>>You need to stop hiding behind him.
>>Your just ticked he's got my back.
>>Bob wants to see you.
>>Excuse me. Bob wants to me.
>>Yeah, that makes complete, sense.
Look, I'll call you back.
William Price, have a seat.
>>What's going on?
You only call me by my full name
when you've had too much caffeine.
Is Forslink crying?
>>Do they have a reason to?
>>Well, every time I write an article, somebody cries.
>>Yes, and I'm beginning to wonder
if that's a bad thing now.
>>What are you talking about?
>>I know Clare fact checked your story
and it panned out at first,
but she went back when we got the screaming complaints
and threatened legal action.
>>Legal. No.
They don't have a leg to stand on.
>>Francine agrees.
Lucky you.
>>But Clare found something interesting
when she went through the tapes of your interview.
Your source said the company was lagging behind,
but he meant lagging behind in the so-called "green areas."
You, however, implied the entire company is
on the verge of going under.
>>It is.
>>And how about you?
You took the facts out of context;
you spun the story to slam Forslink.
>>Are you firing me?
>>No. But you owe me.
>>What do you want me to do?
>>Clare, who feels like this whole thing is her fault,
bless her heart, is going to be taking maternity leave,
so we're down one fact checker.
You'll do her job, just so you can find out
what the truth really looks like.
>>You're benching me.
>>Benching implies that this is temporary.
When Clare gets back we'll re-evaluate it then.
>>Don't do this.
I mean, is this Francine's idea?
I am a writer.
>>Fine, write all you want in your spare time,
but I'm not going to publish a word of it until
you can prove that you can report and not invent.
>>Hello. How may I help you?
>>Hi, I'm Ashley Matthews.
I have an interview with, um.
>>The position's been filled.
We called you this morning.
>>Oh, I don't think you did, are you sure?
>>We called.
>>Because I have my cell phone right here
and I would have heard it ring.
>>Do you think arguing about this is going to change
the fact the job's already taken?
>>Oh, Ms. Hendrix.
>>Hello, Ashley.
>>Um, about the running water in my apartment.
>>Oh, it's still giving you trouble then?
>>This is like the fourth time it's gone out.
Should I talk to Mr. Hendrix?
>>He's away.
>>When will he be back?
>>Very soon.
>>Mrs. Hendrix, I don't have any running water
in my apartment and it seems to go out at the worst times.
>>Oh, maybe it will come back on again then.
We'll get it fixed as just as soon as we can.
>>Okay, we got a tomato soup for Nick
and three-alarm chili for Ashley.
>>Thanks, Dan.
>>My pleasure.
>>How we doing today?
>>I manage.
You guys, here you go.
>>So, how's your friend?
>>Friend?
Oh, he's telling me things I don't want to hear.
How's your interview?
>>Don't ask.
>>Well, I already asked. I can't un-ask.
>>It did not go well.
Story of my life.
>>So, what happened?
>>Nick, I really, you know I just...
>>Well you didn't say anything about follow up questions.
What happened?
>>Okay. Fine.
Well, first, when I'm half way through my shower,
the water goes out, again, so I have to wash my hair out
in Dash's water bowl.
So I'm running late and I smell like dog water.
I get to my car and of course it doesn't start,
so I have to run and catch the bus
and while I'm running I literally collide
with some random guy,
lose my phone, so I don't' get the call that the position
has already been taken and I don't need to get
on the bus to the interview I'm already late for.
>>You washed your hair in dog water.
>>I'm so glad you focus on the important things.
>>That's pretty funny.
>>And to make it worse,
it's the most depressing time of the year.
>>What do you mean, it's Christmas.
>>Yeah, Christmas.
It's this soulless commercial Endeavour
that encourages overspending and overeating.
>>Oh please. Is that all?
>>No.
I mean, the Christmas colors, red and green,
even I know those don't go together.
And what's with the Christmas carols?
The Little Drummer Boy?
Who's this boy?
And drums don't go Porum bum bum bum.
>>Well, there's more to it then that,
don't you think?
>>Yeah. Christmas is a time to spend
with your friends and family.
But when you don't have that,
Christmas isn't all it's cracked up to be.
>>Well you have Dash.
Yeah, Dash.
When he showed up on my doorstep last year
it was the best Christmas ever.
And before that it was, oh, never mind.
All I know is that if I don't find a job
I'm going to have to move out of my cruddy apartment
and won't be able to fix my car and worse,
I'm going to have to give up dash.
I know in the big scheme of things I'm like, this big,
but is it too much to ask for a break?
>>Things will turn around.
Listen, I got the perfect job for you.
>>Really, what?
>>Well, it's seasonal, but just because
it's Christmasy doesn't mean you wont' like it.
>>Okay, beggars can't be choosers.
What kind of work is it?
>>It's a personal assistant.
You run errands, odd jobs, things like that.
It gets a little busier the closer it gets to Christmas.
>>Where'd you hear about it?
>>I know the guy that's hiring.
>>Who is he?
>>You're looking at him.
>>I can't work for you.
>>Why not?
>>Nick, you can't afford a personal assistant.
>>I got money.
>>I'm not going to take your money.
>>Well, it's not doing me any good sitting
in the cookie jar.
>>Nick, I appreciate the gesture, but.
>>What's the problem?
**
>>Hey Will, what do you know?
>>Mickey, how's it going man?
Have an apple.
>>Christmas is coming you know.
>>I know, crazy isn't it?
>>Santa's coming too, any day now.
>>Course he is.
>>Last year he gave me a hundred dollars.
>>Wow.
Didn't blow it all in one place did you?
>>No, I might be homeless, but I ain't stupid.
I invested it.
>>In what?
>>New set of wheels.
>>See you around Mickey.
>>Can you start work tomorrow?
>>Are you sure about this?
>>Come by around 8 AM.
>>Okay. Oh, can I use your phone?
I need to call my cell and see if someone picked it up.
>>Sure. Come on. Make yourself at home.
[ringing]
>>Hello?
>>Hi, um, this is my phone.
>>Ashley, I am so glad you called.
>>How do you know my name?
>>Your resume.
>>You must be the guy I ran into.
>>Yup, well, hopefully the one and only for the day.
Oh, by the way, Tracy and Associates
called and they've already filled the position.
>>Thanks, I got that.
>>Well, better late then never.
>>So, can I get my phone back?
>>Your phone, right.
Um, can you meet me sometime tomorrow?
>>Yeah, earlier the better.
>>How about 8?
The diner on State and 11th.
Do you know where that is.
>>Yeah. I eat there all the time.
>>Great.
We can get some breakfast or something.
>>Thanks, I just want my phone back.
>>And you will get it at 8 o'clock.
>>Okay. What was your name?
>>Will.
>>Good night, Will.
>>Good night.
>>Uh, good news.
My phone is intact and I will be getting it tomorrow.
>>Good.
>>You know, I think the guy with my phone
tried to ask me out.
>>Did you try to say yes?
>>Are you kidding, I don't know him.
>>Well, isn't that the point?
I mean, who do you know?
You know me and Dash.
You should make an effort to get to know people.
>>Nick, it took me like 6 months to even say hi to you.
>>Yeah, well, I'm not going to be around forever.
You should try and get over your fear of people.
>>I'm not afraid of people.
I just don't trust them. Big difference.
>>Yeah, well, a guy asks you out, I say you should go.
>>And I say you shouldn't worry about me.
I'm going to go grab my phone and I'll be fine.
>>What time?
>>8 o'clock.
>>Oh, you'll be late for your first day at work.
>>I'm so sorry. I totally forgot.
>>Well, I'll let it slide.
>>I'll be quick.
I'll run down to the diner, meet him
and I'll get back as soon as I can.
>>Okay.
**
>>Will?
>>Ashley, good morning.
>>Hi.
>>How you doing?
>>Fine, I guess.
>>Good, good.
>>So, can I get my phone back?
>>Oh, yeah. Course. Right to the point.
>>Thank you.
>>Yeah.
Hey, can I ask you a question?
>>Okay.
>>It's less of a question, more of an invitation.
Do you want to go out some time?
>>I don't think that's such a good idea.
>>For you or for me? Or for both of us?
>>Both of us.
>>Why, is there something wrong with you?
>>What? No, that came out wrong.
>>Is there something wrong with you?
>>That's a very valid point.
Uh, in the interest of full disclosure,
I haven't had a girlfriend for 6 months
and I'm a little hostile towards women, plus my x-girlfriend,
she did a number on my head and I'm over sharing.
I sound a little pathetic here, don't I?
>>Yeah, a little.
But, you know, I'm probably worse, so it's okay.
>>Is that a, yes?
>>What, no, no, I, I.
>>No.
>>What's your angle?
>>Angle?
I don't have an angle; I just want to take you out?
>>Occupation?
>>Journalist. Modern Business Weekly.
>>Oh, never heard of it.
>>Okay.
>>How do you feel about Christmas?
>>I love Christmas.
>>Okay.
How do you feel about The Little Drummer Boy?
>>Person or song?
>>Song, then person.
>>Both needless.
>>Okay.
>>But if I'm going to go out with you
it has to be sooner then later.
>>Why?
>>Because if not, I'll talk myself out of it.
>>Okay?
How about some time next week?
>>More like tomorrow?
>>Oh, uh yeah.
No, I can swing that.
How about around.
>>Seven.
>>Seven yeah.
And oh we could go over to.
>>Right here.
>>Here.
>>Okay.
>>Bye.
>>I'll see you tomorrow.
>>Huh.
>>8:10.
He must have made an impression.
>>I don't know.
So what do you want me to do?
>>I want you to take a walk.
>>Okay you're paying me to exercise.
>>Yeah well it's more then that,
here I've drawn out a route I want you to take.
>>I'm not delivering drugs am I?
>>No.
>>You never told me why you need an assistant there.
>>Well trust me it'll all make sense pretty soon.
Just need to take a walk.
>>But I don't even.
>>Look no more questions.
The more time we spend here the less time we have.
First stop is the Sacred Heart Homeless Shelter.
Talk to Harry Bingham.
Tell me Nick sent you.
(singing) >>So far, away. And long ago.
My memories return of all the friends I know.
Come this December.
We'll gather around.
>>Hi, I'm picking something up for Nick.
>>Nick how is he?
>>Good. Good.
>>There you go.
>>Thank you.
(singing) >>throughout our town.
I pray for a happy holiday.
And, good will to all.
I pray that we'll be safe and sound in this winter town.
This place we found.
And call our home.
>>Yes, I understand, I'll give her the message.
Thank you, goodbye.
>>Yes.
>>Hi I'm looking for Francine Miller.
>>Let me see if she's available.
Your name?
>>Ashley Matthews.
>>Hi Francine, yes there's an Ashley Matthew to see you.
Mhm.
>>She's busy right now.
>>Oh, tell her Nick sent me.
>>Hey Francine, she says that Nick sent her. Okay.
>>She'll be out in a minute.
>>Okay thank you.
>>Ashley.
>>Yeah.
>>Hi, these are for Nick.
>>Oh thank you.
>>yup.
>>Hey.
>Will? What are you doing here?
>>Uh I work here.
>>Oh I'm just picking something up.
>>You guys know each other?
>>Yeah.
>>No.
>>We go way back.
>>We met yesterday.
>>If I were you I'd run.
>>I think Ashley can decide for herself who she sees.
>>Oh, I'm not seeing anyone.
But it was nice to me you.
I got to run. Thanks.
>>See you tomorrow.
Hey so how do you know Ashley?
>>What's tomorrow?
>>Dinner.
>>Another victim already.
You have a thing for her don't you?
>>I might be interested.
Hence dinner.
>>You're always on the look out for a future ex-girlfriend.
>>I think she's a bit of challenge.
>>Oh what she doesn't worship the ground you float above.
>>Not every girl I have a thing
for leaves without looking.
You knew what you were getting into.
>>Whatever.
>>So seriously, how do you know Ashley?
>>She picked up some stuff for a mutual friend
and before today I had not seen her.
Happy?
>>Sufficiently.
>>So if you'll excuse me Bob's asked me
to go over your script again,
just to make sure the magazines not exposed.
By the way don't you have some fact checking to do?
>>Yeah thank you.
(knocking) >>Ah, you're back.
>>It was quite some walk.
>>Yeah. You want a drink of water?
>>Sure.
>>Have a seat.
>>Thanks.
>>Waters out again huh?
>>Yeah I got some bottled.
>>So how'd it go?
>>Fine. So, what is all this anyway?
>>It's your work.
>>Mine.
>>Mhm.
>>What am I supposed to do with it?
>>Read it.
>>All of it.
>>Well, I'll help.
>>There's a lot in there it's going to take me
all night to read.
>>Yeah well.
>>Thanks.
>>Go a lot faster then you think.
I made you dinner.
>>Thank you.
>>Julianne Ryan age seven.
Mother is Iraq with the marines.
Lives with grandmother Rose.
Rose has Diabetes and needs medication
and a new hearing aid.
Julianne needs new shoes.
She loves Barbie, anything Barbie.
So who are all these people?
>>There people that need help.
>>There's a lot of them.
>>Yeah, there always are.
>>So what do you do?
>>We help them.
>>We?
>>You're my assistant now aren't you?
>>How do you help them this stuff costs money.
>>I got a little tucked away.
>>Have you seen this pile it would cost a fortune
to help all these people?
>>Yeah.
>>Where do you get the money?
You are dealing drugs.
>>I'll let you in on a secret.
But you mustn't tell anybody.
>>Okay.
>>I'm rich.
>>How rich?
>>filthy.
>>If you're so rich why do you still live here.
>>Well a roofs a roof. I'm warm I'm dry.
I'm good.
>>How did you make your money?
>>Well I was a good businessman,
really good at finances.
I'm well enough off.
>>Well enough off.
>>If I wanted to I could own a couple of city blocks.
>>Why don't you?
>>I don't believe in real estate.
I think people are a better investment.
Which reminds me.
Here's what we're going to do tomorrow.
>>So is this what you do?
You find people to help.
>>Well things are especially hectic
during the Christmas season.
I mean people need help all year round.
But, during Christmas things that they don't have
and need are much more on their minds.
>>So you're like a philanthropist.
>>Well I don't like that label.
This time of year it's sort of a secret Santa.
>>Have you ever done anything for me?
Last year. You gave me Dash.
>>Minute I layed eyes on him
I thought he was perfect for you.
>>How did you know?
>>Well when you first moved in you had that little pendant.
You know that doggy.
>>Yeah.
>>But no dog.
>>Thought it was a good match.
>>Why didn't you tell me?
>>Well that would sort of defeat the purpose
of a secret Santa.
>>Listen to me.
These people need your help.
And I need your help.
Now this is the perfect season for us to stop
thinking about ourselves and start thinking about others.
>>You're asking me to abandon human nature.
>>It's a requirement of the job.
>>I don't know if I can.
>>Well Christmas is three weeks away.
We'll worry about the gang and they can't when we're done.
**
>>All right Dash, time to go to bed.
We've got a lot to do tomorrow.
**
>>Okay what are we doing here?
>>People watching.
>>What are we looking for?
>>Well, who are we looking for?
>>People in need.
>>Yeah.
>>But we already have a stack of names of people
who need your, our help.
>>Well that's just a small portion.
>>There's more?
>>Yup, yup.
Look around you here.
Who do you see that needs help?
>>Him.
>>Mickey.
>>Well he's a pretty obvious choice.
But not a bad place to start.
>>Who else do you see?
>>I don't know.
>>Well look around.
>>Who do you see?
>>Everyone.
>>Exactly.
See everyone carries around a hurt of some kind.
It may not be as obvious as Mickey here.
But everybody needs to know that somebody cares.
>>So you just find them by watching?
>>Mhm.
So who should we help?
Hmm?
>>Come on honey.
It's so cold.
>>But I'm hungry.
>>I know.
>>Can help them both you know.
**
>>Mom.
Isn't this great?
>>It's wonderful.
Come on help me get this inside.
>>So how much money do you spend doing this?
>>Oh I don't keep track.
>>You don't keep track?
>>No, that would defeat the purpose.
>>So all those people I met yesterday
they're like your spies.
Your informants.
>Well, over the years I've developed a relationship
with a number of trustworthy people.
They are my eyes and ears.
>>And they can keep a secret?
>>Yeah.
>>You know I'm still not sold on this whole
"I love Christmas" aspect of my job
but I got to admit it's pretty cool.
>>Pretty satisfying huh? Yeah.
Well it's been said that if you help someone
you're the one that benefits the most.
>>Is that why you do it?
>>It's one of the perks.
>>But it's so much money.
>>Well a good deed doesn't have to involve money.
I mean you just have to open your eyes.
Be aware of others.
Take Stan for example.
Do you notice something different about him?
>>I don't know.
>>Something's off.
He's not as chipper.
>>Like what?
>>Thanks Stan.
>>His son died just about this time last year.
>>I didn't even know he had a son.
>>Yeah Tom was his name.
He drowned helping someone in an accident.
>>Ashley?
>>Will.
>>I'm sorry am I late.
>>I am so sorry. I am so sorry.
I completely forgot.
>>I guess he really made an impression on you.
>>Our first date and you're already seeing other men.
>>Oh this is hardly a date.
>>I'm Will.
>>Nick. Will nice to meet you.
>>Good to meet you.
>>Is it okay if we reschedule?
>>No, no nonsense.
No, I'm going to order mine to go.
Besides I got to talk to Stan here.
Nice to meet you.
>>Good to meet you.
>>Sorry.
>>It's okay. So how late am I?
>>Have you eaten yet?
>>No.
>>Is that Nick Anderson?
>>Yeah how'd you know?
>>I've just seen him in some photos.
>>Really.
>>Yeah at my magazine.
>>I mean he used to be the king of the corporate world.
And then one day he just up and left.
I'd love to know what he's doing now.
>>Hey how you doing.
>>I got a little water for your here.
I'm going to take this back.
>>Thanks.
>>What can I get you?
>>Oh, um.
You know I'll have whatever she's having.
>>Are you sure?
>>Yeah.
>>Okay I'll get that right out to you.
I'll be right back.
>>Thanks.
>>What are we having?
>>Stan's three-alarm chili.
>>Great perfect.
>>So, what do you do?
>>I'm a personal assistant.
>>Where?
>>Just for neighbor.
>>That's cool.
>>You're a journalist?
>>Yeah.
>>No. Not really.
I'm a fact checker at the magazine.
>>Okay here we go, nice and hot.
Enjoy.
>>Thank you.
>>All right.
>>This looks good.
I live for this stuff.
>>Mmm, It is good.
It's not really hot for three alarm chili.
>>Give it some time.
>>So how do you know Nick?
>>Do you want me to see if he can have dinner with you?
>>No, I'm sorry.
It's just I get curious.
And, it's just that.
(cough, cough) >>Holy cow this is hot. (cough)
>>You okay?
>>It's just.
How is your mouth not burning? (cough)
>>You all right?
>>Yeah no I'm good. It's good chili though.
>>I'm going to be honest with you next time
I'm totally ordering something different.
>>Three-alarm chili, you didn't think it would be hot?
>>Good you thought you'd object to a next time.
Maybe do something later this week?
>>Sure.
>>Good I'd like that.
>>Oh excuse me, didn't mean to interrupt.
>>HI Nick.
>>You guys are neighbors?
>>Yeah.
>>Ashley you work for Nick.
>>Well just some odd jobs.
It's harder for me to get around these days.
>>Okay.
>>Excuse me.
>>Mhm.
>>Good night.
>>Well thank you again, good night.
>>Night Ashley.
>>Okay so yeah I think that looks really good.
If we could just work on this one part.
You bet.
>>Thanks.
>>Ashley and Nick fit together really?
>>You know what I'm busy.
>>I'm not going to give up on this.
>>Why do you need to know?
>>It's Nick Anderson.
He's a legend in my book and at this magazine.
Him and Ashley are onto something.
>>It's none of your business.
>>Francine.
>>No, Will, please just back off.
>>Oh you never told me how your date went.
>>What's to tell?
We met at the dinner, both had the chili.
He nearly burned his face off.
We went our separate ways.
>>Yeah you going out again?
>>We don't have anything actually set up
but probably won't happen.
And you want it to?
>>Maybe.
>>Seems it was easier to find someone special
when I was your age.
>>I'm sure it was always hard.
>>Well that's true.
But with all the distractions it's easy
to forget what's really important.
>>Hey nick.
>>Merry Christmas, Harry.
Hope this will hold you for a while.
>>Oh sure will.
>>Hey you stay put it's icy out here.
We'll get it.
>>How are you?
(knock, knock) >>The Ge Story check out?
>>Yeah. That's not why I'm here.
>>Apologizing.
>>Well if apologizing you mean giving you a great story.
>>A great story we'll be sued over?
>>It's inspirational.
I ran into nick Anderson.
>>The CEO of?
>>Yeah.
>>Okay.
>>He's getting into the holiday spirit
by doing some charity work.
>>Okay not groundbreaking but.
>>Secret charity work.
>>Let me see the story.
>>I haven't written it yet.
>>I wanted to make sure that if I did you'd consider it.
And possibly get off fact checking duty?
>>No promises.
>>Good.
>>Francine.
>>Yes.
>>Will's onto a story about Nick Anderson now.
I know he's retired or whatever but make sure
Will doesn't step on any toes, legally.
>>Will do.
>>I can't believe how many people need help.
>>Yeah.
>>Sacred Heart was almost out of food.
>>Yeah well it's not good news for a shelter,
especially this time of here.
>>Does it happen a lot?
>>More then you think.
But they're never completely out of food.
>>You wouldn't let it happen?
>>No.
(beep)
>>Nick it's Francine look I think we may have a problem.
Nothing legal everything's set for your trust.
But one of the reporter's here Will Price
is writing something about you.
And I think he has inkling about your little project.
I know you're particular about this.
So give me a call I'll see what I can do.
>>Oh goody.
Nick I'm so sorry.
>>Don't worry.
>>You used me.
>>Ashley.
>>You used me to get to Nick
and now you're going to ruin what he's doing.
>>Ruin?
This is a great story it deserves to be seen.
>>That's not what he wants.
>>Why not?
>>I don't know.
But Nick has a right to keep it quiet if he wants to.
>>I just put the pieces together.
It's not as if I sought this out.
But I'm not going to ignore it either.
>>You didn't look for it you sure?
>>Then why did you tell me you were a fact checker?
You lied to me.
>>I kept things to myself.
So did you.
>>To protect what he's doing.
>>You're acting like this is a bad thing.
This is a great story.
It's Christmas.
I mean what better story can I write during Christmastime?
>>It's not about Christmas.
It's about him.
Nick is the most selfless person I have ever met.
And he trusted me with his secret.
And now through some sick twisted fate
you get a hold of my cell phone.
And everything's going to be exposed because of me.
>>Ashley wait.
>>You're a real jerk you know that?
>>Yeah I get that a lot.
Listen if you would just let me talk to Nick
he will understand.
>>I can't believe I started liking you.
I really thought you were interested in me.
>>I am interested in me.
>>You are more interested in the story.
>>Can I not be interested in both?
>>No.
Because if you were interested in me
you'd see why you shouldn't write this story.
(knocking) >>Nick.
Nick. Nick.
>>Ms. Matthews.
You're here with Nick Anderson.
He's stable and he asked me to come talk to you
about his condition.
Why don't we have a seat?
>>Okay.
>>His condition has become a little bit more grave
since last time he was here.
The cancer which has been in remission at this point
as returned and is starting to progress.
And it's holding up through some his vital systems.
**
>>Hey I know you.
>>Nick you scared me.
>>I scared me too. You talk to my friend?
>>Yeah, you can beat cancer Nick people do it all the time.
>>Well I beat it twice already.
Somehow I don't think the third times a charm.
>>No, you can afford the best treatment.
>>I've had the best treatment.
>>Cancer's back, I don't think my body's
going to fight it this time.
>>Why didn't you tell me?
>>I didn't want to worry you.
>>What about secret Santa?
>>It's yours.
>>What?
>>Yeah, you're going to take over.
>>No, no, no. I can't.
>>Yeah you can.
>>Francine has drawn up all the documents
that you'll need to manage it.
>>Francine, from the magazine?
>>She's my attorney too.
>>You've been planning this.
>>I knew I had to pass it onto someone.
You're it.
>>I don't even know where I would start.
>>Start. You're doing it.
Huh?
By the way there's a guy in the next room
who's having trouble with his hospital bills
I want you to check it out for me.
Kay?
>>Kay.
**
>>I ever tell you what I started doing this?
You know, several years ago I was a different person.
I was, I was real good with money.
Great with finances.
I had a beautiful wife who loved me very much.
I guess I didn't know how to love her.
My true love was chasing the dollar.
And I gave her everything she desired.
I thought or she wanted or needed.
Wasn't enough to keep us happy?
And then she left.
And I was angry.
I made sure she didn't get a dime in the settlement.
I figured I didn't need her.
A few years went by.
I was still the same.
Then I got a letter that said she passed away.
She was the one person who loved me in spite of who I was.
I mean I felt empty for years but after my wife died
I felt useless, alone.
So, I quit my job and gave away
all the stuff I didn't think I needed.
Which was practically everything.
And eventually I decided that this what I should be doing.
So that's why I want you to continue the work.
Because I don't want you to ever feel empty or useless.
And I certainly don't want you to feel alone.
>>Stop talking like you're dying.
>>Denial doesn't help honey I just want to make sure
that you're going to be all right.
>>Nick promise me you'll still fight.
>>Don't be afraid.
Why don't you go get some sleep?
(knock, knock) >>Francine.
>>What?
>>You think he would do an interview.
>>No.
>>Not even a one on one interview.
Could be good PR.
>>He doesn't do it for the PR.
Besides with him being in the hospital right now.
He's got other things on his mind.
>>Hospital?
>>I thought you knew.
Well just skew around with whatever you're writing.
He's a good man.
(knock, knock, knock)
>>I heard about Nick. I'm sorry.
>>Thanks.
>>So what are you up to?
>>Just working, which I should probably get back to.
>>So, being Nick's assistant does that mean
you have to do all the Christmas cheer by yourself.
>>Trying not to think about that.
>>Want some help?
>>Why so you can spy on Nick?
>>Just help.
>>Okay.
>>Can I help you?
>>So are you we getting an early lunch
before we start santa-ing?
>>Nope. Eat on your own dime.
>>What are you we doing here?
>>I'm just making this up as I go.
So, you'll have to wait and see.
>>All right your number is 34
I'll call you when it's ready.
>>Thank you.
>>Hi may I take your order?
>>Yes can I get 50 burgers to go please?
>>50.
>>50?
>>Five zero, to go.
>>Okay 50 burgers.
Your total is 149.52.
>>Okay.
>>Here's your change.
And I'll let you know when that's ready.
>>Thank you.
>>Here you go.
>>Thanks.
>>Oh I see.
>>Here you go.
>>Thank you.
>>You bet.
>>There you go.
Of course.
>>Thank you.
>>Uh huh.
>>Thank you.
>>Uh huh.
>>Merry Christmas.
>>Thank you.
>>Mickey.
>>How are you doing?
>>Merry Christmas.
>>Good how are you sir?
>>This is for you.
>>Thanks.
>>Later.
>>Ran out of burgers quicker then I thought.
>>Don't worry there's more to do.
>>Can I go get some more?
>>No. Next stop.
>>Toy store.
I forgot the big red Santa bag.
>>Discretion is important remember?
That's why what you're writing is so opposite
of what Nick wants.
>>Well let me talk to Nick myself.
See what he really wants.
>>Nice try.
>>Yes. Yes, I know.
I'm evil.
That Santa's list.
>>Uh yeah.
And you're not on it.
>>Oh, neither are you.
>>Grow up.
>>We are in a toy store. Cute.
>>All right level with me.
Where did you get the list?
>>I wrote it based on some helpful hints.
>>From who.
I mean is there like a whole network of secret Santas?
>>Are you asking because you're curious or because
you want to write about it?
>>We have way more toys then are on that list.
>>So?
>>So what happens to all the extra toys?
**
>>Being a do gooder takes a lot of energy huh?
>>Yeah.
>>Hey can I get you guys any dessert.
>>No thanks I've got to get to the hospital to visit Nick.
>>Well listen I want you to tell Nick
that I'm thinking about him and that he's in prayers okay.
>>Mhm.
>>You guys have a great night.
>>Thanks you too.
>>What?
>>Oh just something Nick said.
>>About Stan?
>>Yeah he said his son died last year around Christmas
in an accident I just can't stop thinking about it.
>>It's got to be tough.
>>I want to do something but I don't know what.
>>Yeah, what do you buy that makes that pain go away right?
>>Something I can do?
>>Depends what do you have in mind?
>>I could do some digging, see what I find out.
>>Okay.
>>So, what do you really do for the magazine?
>>Really do?
>>Yeah.
I know you lied about being a reporter.
>>Okay I'm a writer.
I wrote a story recently about a company.
My boss didn't like it.
Said I took some stuff out of context.
>>Did you?
>>Not enough to get me into any legal trouble.
>>Oh you must be so proud.
>>If it makes you feel any better
I am fact checking stories now,
part of my punishment, whatever.
So why did Nick pick you?
>>I don't know.
>>Liar.
>>You're the one to talk.
>>Ouch.
>>He wants me to be happy I guess.
Especially this time of year.
>>You're not normally?
>>Let's just say Christmas isn't my favorite.
>>Because?
>>Okay I don't hate Christmas per se;
it's just a really hard time of year for people like me.
>>People like you.
>>Okay.
I'm going to stop there because I'm opening up
to someone I definitely shouldn't be opening up to.
>>And the wall goes up.
>>We haven't' known each other very long
but I think it's safe to say you avoid people.
>>No I don't.
>>Really.
>>You only interact with Nick and your dog.
>>That's not true.
>>It is okay to talk to people about your feelings.
>>You don't care about my feelings.
You just want a background for your story.
>>You think I'm asking about a story?
>>Aren't you Mr. I got in trouble at work.
>>Maybe I'm asking because we're friends.
>>We're not friends?
>>We're not.
>>No.
>>Ouch again.
>>Ashley wait a second.
I mean I know women are supposed to be temperamental
but I think you're extreme.
>>What?
>>I got you to stop didn't I?
>>Okay, I appreciate your help Will.
I really do.
But I just can't seem to shake this feeling
that this whole friendship thing is a complete sham.
>>I volunteered to help you remember?
I passed burgers.
I helped you buy toys.
Plus I put up with your lovely personality.
And when I ask a simple question why Christmas
is such a big deal you accuse me of working an angle.
>>Because you are why else would you be here.
>>Because I care about you.
>>No you don't.
>>Yes I do.
>>No you don't.
>>Left you speechless.
You okay?
I leave you breathless too.
>>Oh get over yourself.
>>Well this isn't going to change anything? Right?
I'll see you tomorrow.
>>I spoke to Mrs. Hendrix earlier today.
Is she ever going to get a plumber to our apartment?
>>I just found out that Mr. Hendrix had a stroke
about a moth ago and she's hardly been to the apartment
because he's at a care facility.
>>Really.
>>Mhm.
>>You never quit do you.
>>I ain't dead yet.
So how'd it go today?
>>Um, you know it went pretty good.
>>Pretty good?
>>I don't know how to tell you this
so I'm just going to say it.
That reporter you got a phone call about?
The one who wants to write a story on you
and who I accidently went out with?
>>Mhm.
>>He's helping me.
>>Well that's interesting.
>>I couldn't do it alone.
>>And he knows how it works now.
He wants to interview you. I'm sorry.
Nick say something.
>>You like him don't you?
>>I do not.
>>Indeed the couple certainly would have died
if it had not been for the heroic efforts
of Tom Manning.
And in the end it proved fatal for manning.
>>Hey Dash I'll take you out in one second
but I've got to make a call.
>>Mrs. Hendrix.
>>Yes.
>>I'll put this in the truck.
>>So we did everything you asked.
We fixed the problem with the pipes.
And we replaced all the hot water heaters.
All the plumbing seems to be in perfect working order now.
Is there anything else that we can do for you?
>>What?
>>I can't pay for this.
>>Oh, everything's already been taking care of.
>>So do you want to talk about last night?
>>Uh no.
>>Okay so who's house is this anyways.
>>Oh it's a little girl and her grandmother's.
I'll be right back.
>>Grandma. What's it say?
>>Dear Rose, I'm awfully busy this year and I wanted
to make sure I didn't forget you and Julianne.
Toys for your granddaughter and money for medicines.
Merry Christmas, love Santa.
>>You're smooth.
>>Of course I am.
>>You know you're better
at this secret Santa thing than you think.
Nick he's taught you well.
>>Thanks.
>>How he doing anyway?
>>He said you could go see him.
>>That's not what I was getting at.
>>Sure it wasn't.
>>He said he'd talk with me?
By the way how long are going to avoid eye contact?
>>I am not avoiding eye contact.
>>You're avoiding eye contact.
>>I'm not.
>>Okay.
Look me in the eye and tell me you're not avoiding me.
>>Fine.
All right when do you want to go see Nick?
>>I found some stuff out about Tom, Stan's son.
>>Please tell me its' not dirt.
>>Want to hear this or not?
>>Okay.
>>Last Christmas a car lost control on an icy road.
Crashed into a lake.
A young married couple was trapped inside.
Tom was driving by jumped into the water.
You got the couple out but he didn't make it
back to shore.
They found him a few days later.
>>Oh Stan. How awful for him.
>>I made a copy of the articles
if you want to check it out.
I thought it would help with Stan.
>>Thanks.
>>Yeah.
>>Hey it's Will isn't it?
>>Yes. Yes.
>>Hey girl.
>>How you feeling?
>>Oh great.
Ashley would you give us a few minutes?
>>Are you sure?
>>I can handle it.
>>Okay.
>>Have a seat will you Will?
>>Thank you.
>>Um, I'm going to record this if you don't mind.
>>How did you find out about me?
>>I'm a reporter. I notice things.
>>Oh really.
>>Can I ask you a few questions?
>>I want to ask you a few questions.
>>Okay.
>>Where are you from?
>>Michigan.
>>Where did you go to school?
>>Northwestern?
>>You like writing?
>>I love it.
>>You like Ashley.
>>She's a very nice girl.
>>Nice girl? She's terrific.
>>She's a little hard headed.
>>Who isn't?
>>Yeah I like her.
>>Let me tell you something.
She's had a very different life from you and me.
She's has to fight tooth and nail
for everything she's ever achieved.
She didn't tell you about her childhood did she?
>>When she was a baby she was dropped
in one of those places.
She passed around foster care homes.
One to another like a dishrag.
She didn't have a normal childhood.
>>Hey all she's ever wanted
was to be loved unconditionally.
>>That's not easy to come by.
>>It's not impossible.
See people have let her down.
It's hard for her to open up.
>>Yeah. I picked up on that.
>>Yeah. But she likes you.
Otherwise she wouldn't have let you in as far as she has.
>>You think so?
>>Oh yeah. Yeah.
>>To be honest with you sometimes
she won't even look at me.
>>You're not very intuitive for a reporter are you?
>>The reason she won't look at you is she's afraid
that if she does she'll melt.
>>It's about time.
>>Yeah sorry.
>>Did you get everything you wanted?
>>Yeah.
>>I'm going to go check on Nick.
>>Hey, what are you doing?
>>I just want to stretch my legs here.
>>Oh can I help.
>>No don't keep Will waiting.
>>He can wait.
>>How long are you going to keep him away?
>>As long as possible.
>>Hey.
If you keep waiting you're going to miss something special.
Now you go.
If I need anything I'll call the nurse.
>>Okay.
(ringing)
>>Yeah.
>>Hey will we have a cover story
that we're waiting for you check.
Preferably before we go to press.
>>Yeah, working on it.
>>Still writing the Nick Anderson
philanthropist story?
>>Yeah.
>>Let me see a draft when you ready.
Before we finalize the Christmas issue.
>>Okay will do.
>>And get that story checked.
**
(ringing)
>>City information.
>>Yes hi can I get the number
for Nina and Aaron Walker please?
>>One moment please.
>>Thanks.
>>Nick Anderson bears a similarity to Santa himself.
He's old. He's jolly.
And if it wasn't the fact that he doesn't have a beard.
So he's the real deal.
(grunting)
>>That's worse.
**
(ringing)
>>Hello.
Uh huh.
When?
Okay.
Thank you.
**
(knocking)
>>Um, that's my apartment.
>>Ashley Matthews?
>>Mhm.
>>I have a letter for you. Sign here.
Have a nice day.
>>Thanks.
>>Dear Ashley, I had a hunch things were going south
so I thought I'd write something before my bucket's been kicked.
First I want no flashy funeral or any hoopla.
I'm dead.
I won't be around to enjoy the party
so don't bother throwing one.
Second, my attorney will contact you about my will.
Since you're the closest thing I've had to a family
I want you to have it all.
I hope you'll use it to bless others.
And lastly, get over yourself
and tell Will you love him.
Remember the heart is a resilient muscle.
Don't worry about the news story.
If he prints it no biggy.
It's not like I'm going to write an angry letter to the editor.
I'll miss you terribly while we're apart.
But I'm not going to lie.
I hope I see my ex wife Holly
and offer her the biggest apology I can.
I love you. Nick.
**
>>Hey.
>>It's okay.
>>How is it okay?
>>It's not. Just something people say.
I think I can guess how you're holding up.
>>Why are you here?
>>Thought I could bring you some Christmas cheer.
>>I've never hated Christmas more.
>>Well I think it's time we change that.
>>Sledding?
>>Yup.
>>Why?
>>Well Nick said you didn't have a very normal childhood so.
>>So you thought sledding?
>>Have you ever been?
>>No.
>>Stop complaining and hop on.
(singing)
>>Is this thing safe?
>>Of course. You ready?
>>No.
>>Good.
(screaming)
>>Are you okay?
>>Yeah. Can we do that again?
>>Well if you're up to it.
I'm going to make this thing go faster.
(singing)
>>And everyone's louder about material things
that don't matter.
AT least not to me.
If I could have just one thing for this year.
It would be to cry out all those tears and all the pain.
That we've endured in the past.
Because it's the future we can change.
If we try to rearrange the way we live.
And maybe give.
A little more.
I hope there's someone listening.
Because I can only sing so loud.
>>Great now I'm all cold.
>>You're welcome.
>>Thank you.
>>Warm yet?
>>Yeah much better.
>>Hey how about a little pie on the house.
>>There you go.
>>You and one for you.
>>Stan you don't need to do that.
>>Oh please.
>>Thank you.
>>So how are you?
>>Oh good enough.
It's a little lonely a round this time of the year
without Nick now.
And my son Tom.
Did you ever get a chance to meet my son Tom?
>>No, but Nick said some really great things about him.
>>Nick's pretty good about that.
>>Yeah Tom had a lot of potential.
Got a chance to go to Harvard business school
on a scholarship.
He graduated.
Had a job lined up.
Hey listen, I'm going down that row.
You guys enjoy your pie okay.
Have a nice night.
>>Thank you.
>>I found the Walkers.
>>The couple Tom saved?
>>They sent me a letter to give to Stan.
>>Really?
>>Mhm.
>>Why?
What did it say?
>>Well I didn't read it.
But I bet thank you was in there somewhere.
>>Yeah but what do you say to the father of the guy
who died saving your life.
>>Yeah.
>>I think it was really hard for them.
>>So where's the letter.
>>Right over there by the register.
>>They had a baby. And they named him Tom.
>>Santa like that.
>>Thank you for finding the article in the first place.
>>It was nothing.
>>So when does your story come out?
>>Christmas week with any luck.
>>Just so you know Nick was okay with you writing something.
>>He was?
>>Yeah.
I mean in the big scheme of things its just words.
And he had a lot on his mind.
>>He was a good man.
>>Yeah.
>>So, any plans for Christmas.
>>No.
>>Want to do something?
>>No, it's okay I don't want to take you
away from Christmas.
Besides I've got some last minute things to do.
>>It's not even my birthday.
>>These aren't for you.
>>I'm shocked.
You have that story ready?
>>Sort of.
>>Deadlines coming up I thought you wanted to prove
you deserve to write again.
>>I just had to make a few last minute changes.
>>You at least got a draft I can look at?
It's not what I expected.
I'll let you know.
>>Thanks.
>>Oh.
And try to make sure this one won't give Francine
any more headaches.
>>Yeah.
>>Ohh, flowers who are they from?
>>I don't know.
Let's see.
**
>>All right Dash I know it's Christmas
Even but I won't be long.
>>Aw you shouldn't have.
>>What are you doing here?
>>I thought I'd spend Christmas Eve with you
if that's all right.
>>Okay, well I'm on my way out.
>>Where to?
>>I will show you.
>>Who does this go to?
I thought you guys already covered everyone I gave you.
>>It's for you. Merry Christmas.
>>Merry Christmas. Thank you.
You didn't have to.
>>We couldn't have done it without you.
>>Merry Christmas.
>>Well thank you Merry Christmas to you.
>>Merry Christmas.
>>Thanks for coming by.
>>I have to admit that was pretty cool.
I never thought about it before
but I mean Elves deserve presents too.
>>Yeah Nick taught me that everyone needs something.
>>Including you.
>>What's this?
>>Oh. Christmas present.
I can't wrap.
But it's what's inside that counts.
>>Thank you.
>>You survived your first Christmas as secret Santa.
Yeah first and last for the secret part.
>>Yeah. About that. I wanted to apologize.
>>No don't.
I should apologize actually.
>>For what?
>>For how I've been treating you.
You've helped me so much and no matter what you've done
even writing that story.
Thank you.
>>You're welcome.
>>Open it.
>>Okay.
>>Merry Christmas.
>>What's this?
>>It's all my secret Santa tapes and notes.
I didn't submit the article.
>>What?
>>I knew it was going to be harder for you.
And you were right.
Nick wouldn't have wanted that.
As we've been doing this project of his.
I realized that Nick wasn't just a secret Santa he was,
he was more of an angel.
Christmas Angel.
And being an angel isn't about the recognition
or getting the glory.
It's about helping others.
>>But, I thought you were writing something?
**
>>One Christmas down.
Yeah and who knows how many to go huh?
>>You ever think you'll get bored of it?
>>Nah, it'll keep me too busy.
>>You know I was an elf once?
>>Yeah when I was 16 I was short for my age.
And my mom needed help with her Santa display. So.
>>You were not an elf.
>>All right I might have stretched the truth there a bit.
The point is, I can help, you know next year.
>>How do you know what you'll be doing?
I mean you might be covering some big breaking news story.
>>I can make myself available if you want me to.
>>Just Christmas.
I don't get to see you till then.
>>No that is not going to work either.
I mean the way I see it Christmas, crucial.
But people need help the rest of the year too.
>>You know I think I can handle it.
Then again those presents get really heavy.
>>Merry Christmas.
**
>>It's your turn.
>>I took him for a walk yesterday.
>>Mhm.
>>Then why are you getting up?
>>Guilt.
>>Okay I'll go with you.
>>You know we both don't have to take him.
>>OH I know.
But I want to see the Christmas decorations.
They're going up early this year.
>>I thought you hated that stuff.
>>Not anymore.
>>Come on, come on, come on.
>>Come on dash.
We have a lot to do today.
>>Ready.
>>All right let's get going.
>>Come on, come.
**