[성탄 특집: 영화 대본] ‘An Aspen Christmas Conspiracy(산악 도시의 성탄절 음모, 2025)‘ 결말 부분

[BRUCE]

Maybe the reason of the

season's getting through to me

I got the glitter,

I got the snow day

I got reminders on my

calendar to celebrate

Cause I can tell

it's going to be

A Merry Christmas

Another reason for the season

I got you right here with me

So Merry Christmas

All is well and right

Yes, I got a reason to believe

Sing hallelujah

Hallelujah, hallelujah

Hallelujah

Merry Christmas, Christmas

Merry, Merry Christmas to you

I got the star

Help me put it on the tree

Got the bell, so

jingle on with me

Got the smile on my

face Cause I can see

It's a Merry Christmas

Another reason for the season

I got you right here with me

So Merry Christmas

All is well and right

Yes, I got a reason to believe

Sing hallelujah

Sing hallelujah

Merry Christmas

Christmas

Merry, Merry Christmas

Hallelujah

Hallelujah, hallelujah

Merry Christmas

Christmas

Merry Merry Christmas

To you

Yeah

DARLA: What are you

doing in my refrigerator?

I'm required to make

sure you aren't going

to go hungry over Christmas.

I got plenty.

Besides, you go sticking your

nose in other people's business,

you might find something

you don't like.

Why don't you hang

up some more ornaments?

Just a few weeks

left to enjoy them.

What's the use?

They're just going to find a

way to kick me off my land.

Land that's been in my family

for five generations, mind you.

Then me and every

tenant of Shady Vista

will be homeless for Christmas.

Who's they?

I don't know.

The city, the

federal government.

If a mobile home park is not

highest and best use of land,

then look out.

Eminent domain.

Wham bam.

Thank you, Uncle Sam.

And it's not the

government, then

the millionaire

muckety mucks who

keep sniffing around, just

looking for any opportunity

to drive me out of business.

I don't think anyone's trying

to drive you out of business.

Oh, is that your

expert opinion?

Because every time someone comes

out for a routine inspection,

they come up with something that

needs to be fixed or replaced.

And that's on top of things just

keep breaking out of the blue.

I swear, I've never

had so many things

go wrong as in the

last few months.

Makes it harder and

harder for the board

to say no when these

offers to buy come along.

No, Darla, my expert opinion

as your court appointed social

worker and your friend is

that you can't throw rocks,

beer bottles, rotten

garbage, or a dead squirrel

at the city or

county vehicles that

happened to drive-through here.

Why is there a dead

squirrel in your freezer?

Ammunition.

Seriously?

Of course not.

Jimmy Stewart brings him to me.

Right, of course.

But why the freezer?

That scared me half to death.

The ground's frozen.

Gotta wait till it thaws to

give him a proper burial.

Jimmy Stewart wouldn't

have it any other way.

Right, Jimmy Stewart?

Ms. Mercedes here just

doesn't understand, does she?

No, she doesn't.

Come have a seat.

Let's have a conversation.

OK?

Talk, talk, talk.

That's all anyone

ever wants to do.

If you don't talk about it,

and you end up doing something

out of anger and end

up back in court,

I won't be able to help you.

And then you won't be

able to help your tenants.

I don't like feeling so angry.

But if they get

kicked out of here,

they won't have anywhere to go.

They'll have to travel

over an hour just to find

something half as affordable.

They're good people.

Good people just trying to

make a living in this Gucci

addled excuse for a town.

You'll find a way

to make it work.

I know it.

Look, I believe everything

happens for a reason.

You're going through this

challenge for a reason.

You just got to keep your

chin up and don't give--

Look, honey, I was married

to a pastor for 42 years.

I've heard the sermons.

Sorry.

I miss him.

I know.

I just want you to know

that I'll be here for you.

OK?

You just gotta be good.

No promises.

OK, OK, I promise.

Let's get this place decorated.

A toast.

A toast to our very

own Justin Carmichael.

What can I say?

We hardly knew you.

Fresh out of law school

just one year ago.

And in that short year with

Hartshorn, Ellis, and Lloyd,

you have far exceeded

our expectations.

So it is with mixed

emotions, nevertheless

great pride, that we send our

idealistic and bold young hero

into the barren wastelands

of Aspen, Colorado,

where he will serve as the

youngest deputy district

attorney on record.

Now, Maximilian, you may

say, Aspen is no wasteland.

Why, it is the the very

definition of lifestyles

of the rich and famous.

And you would not be wrong.

No, our Mr.

Carmichael has decided

to navigate the wasteland of

the criminal justice system.

And on a state salary to boot.

Seriously, it's not that bad.

Hey, I hear you can get two

4,500 square foot mansions

here in Odessa for the

same price as a one

bedroom condo in Aspen.

Three, actually.

Hey, Justin.

I just bought a

new refrigerator.

Do you need the box?

I don't know, man.

What's a snow load rating?

Thanks, guys.

But I got my housing

all lined up.

Seriously, though, good luck.

I hear it's beautiful up there.

We'll miss you.

Thank you, ma'am.

The rest of us would

rather be rich, though.

All about the Benjamins.

-Easy there bronco.

Don't go undervaluing the

firm.

As I always say at Hartshorn,

Ellis and Lloyd,

it's all about the Cleveland's.

Wow.

Thanks.

I didn't know these were

still in circulation.

Oh, they aren't.

I have a modest collection.

Now you could spend it.

But I suggest hanging it on

the wall of your new office

as a reminder of what

you'll be missing

in your new line of work.

Very funny.

Thank you.

I appreciate it.

Oh, it does come with

a buyback guarantee,

should you ever need it.

$0.70 on the

dollar, of course.

Of course.

I'm sure we'll see you again.

I might come visit you when

I'm vacationing in Aspen.

To Justin.

Justin.

[upbeat music]

Well, hello.

Hi, ma'am.

I'm Justin, your new roommate.

You must be Mercedes.

I wish.

Hey, Merce!

MERCEDES: I'll be right there.

She'll be right here.

Thank you, ma'am.

Do you mind if I just--

Oh, come in, come in.

Thanks.

I'm Rayleen.

How do you do?

So, Mercedes is--

Mercedes!

MERCEDES: What?

Your new roommate is here.

You'll have to

excuse Aunt Rayleen.

She tends to bellow

whenever she's--

Mercedes?

I'm Justin.

Hi.

Hi, Bello?

You look different

on the phone.

I looked?

Sounded.

Sounded like you

looked different.

Never mind.

I see you've met

my Aunt Rayleen,

I bello.

It's nice to meet you both.

You're in the

bedroom on the right.

Like I mentioned, it's cozy.

Well, I don't have

a lot of stuff, so--

I hate to run out, but

I've got to get to work.

On a Saturday?

I have to make rent somehow.

Got two jobs, and

I still need you.

Me?

A roommate.

Oh, by the way, my

mother insists that I ask.

You're sure you're OK with

having a guy as a roommate?

Why wouldn't I be?

Well, I mean, not afraid

I could be like an ax

murderer or something?

I figured you've

had a dozen background

checks in your line of work.

True enough.

Wait, what line of work.

Attorney.

Prosecutor.

Oh.

I'll check his background.

Oh, Rayleen.

Well, I mean, can't I at least

Facebook stalk him a little?

I mean, we need to air out

all that dirty laundry just

to be safe.

Shall we?

If we must.

Make yourself at home

because it is your home.

Right.

At least until

your lease expires.

MERCEDES: Let's go!

Alrighty, then.

Oh.

Here we go.

Yes, sir.

Hey, thanks for coming

in on such short notice.

No problem, Mr. Sheldon.

It's great to finally

meet you in person.

Likewise.

Just wanted to set the tone.

Yes, sir.

No sirs in the office.

This is Aspen, not Texas.

Understood, sir.

I mean, I got it.

Police in Aspen are pretty

much a welcoming committee.

Parking tickets are the

most common infraction here.

But when something more

serious comes along,

the governor is

up for re-election

and he wants to bolster

his tough on crime image.

Wants to see a higher

conviction rate.

Thinks we've been letting

too many people off easy.

Yes, sir-- ree.

Siree, Bob.

Airtight cases,

higher conviction rate,

lower overturn rate, right?

Of course.

Use your discretion.

But when it makes sense,

let's let justice prevail.

Your current case files

are in your office,

if you want to get up

to speed for Monday.

Roger that.

I'm ready.

Won't let you down.

Sounds good.

[joyful music]

Ooh, smells great.

Hey, there.

Yeah, just making some chili.

You want some?

No, that's OK.

I'll whip something up.

You sure?

There's plenty.

I don't know.

Let me set you a place.

Just a roommate thing.

Great, yeah.

OK.

Don't want to make

it awkward or--

Absolutely, yeah.

Nothing awkward about this.

Right.

Let me just freshen up.

Great, yeah.

No problem.

[stirring music]

Wow.

Thanks.

Yeah, there's no

bowls with the China.

So paper it is.

Oh, you could have used

mine, but this is great.

Thanks.

Looks delicious.

Yeah, dig in.

I hope you like it.

Let me know if I went too

far with the habanero.

I'm Texan, so--

[coughs]

Too much?

Oh, no.

No, no, no.

Not water.

Here, try mixing

in some sour cream.

I'm so sorry.

I'm just so used to

the peppers that--

Did I mention I'm

from the Midwest?

I'm so sorry.

Here, let me take you out, OK?

We can get whatever you

want, just roommates.

Please?

Yeah, OK.

Dessert first?

I like your style.

Prices being what they are,

at least you can get sweet

and before you're broke.

- True.

Hey, look, I'm just glad

you're not lactose intolerant.

That was a lot of sour cream.

How did you get

to be a lawyer?

Well, my dad was a cop.

My mom was a school teacher.

So justice and doing the right

thing were, shall we say,

emphasized in my

formative years.

So I guess it just stuck.

Sounds good.

How about you?

Social worker by day,

ski instructor by weekend.

How'd you get into that,

the social work, I mean?

Similar, I guess.

My parents were a little

more on the hippie side,

but they instilled a strong

sense of right and wrong.

But my dad got busted for

using a controlled substance,

and judge threw the book at him.

One little slip up, 0 tolerance.

Sent to prison for a long time.

So my mom, my brothers, and

me were on our own for a bit.

Sorry to hear that.

It was a really compassionate

social worker who helped us out.

I'm glad you

had that at least.

Anyway, I thought if I

could help people who are down

on their luck and

back on their feet,

I'd be doing the best

work I knew how to do.

That's great.

I got this one client.

She's funny.

I love her.

She reminds me of

my mom a little.

She's had her run

ins with the law

mostly because

she's cantankerous.

Not really dangerous

or anything.

But her husband died,

and she's trying to keep

her mobile home park afloat.

And she just can't

catch a break.

So I'm working with her to

get her on an even keel.

How's that going?

Really well.

As long as she doesn't let her

temper get the better of her.

[laughter]

Look, I'm sure

you're great with her.

And you said you're

a ski instructor?

Side hustle.

Have a little fun while

helping pay the bills.

Right.

I'm going to have

to get one of those.

Really?

As a lawyer?

Yeah, just until I get a rung

or two up on the pay scale.

And retire my law school loans.

Got it.

You still hungry?

I'm good.

Are you sure?

We got plenty of chili

back at the house.

Oh, no.

No, thanks.

Thanks for the ice cream.

My pleasure.

Hey, look, maybe we can

get some real dinner

sometime, minus the habaneros.

I'd like that.

Jimmy Stewart, you'd tell me

if someone was sneaking around,

wouldn't you?

Sure, you would.

You'd probably invite him

in for tea and crumpets.

[eerie music]

Not again!

Shady Vista.

Darla speaking.

Yes, I just noticed it.

Yes, George.

I'm looking into it right now.

You just hang tight.

Shady Vista.

Darla speaking.

Yes, I'm working

on it right now.

Yes, Juanita.

Well, just try to towel the

shampoo out as best you can.

I'll have it back on right away.

Right away.

Yeah, I promise.

[phone rings]

That's it!

That ought to do it.

John.

JOHN: Officer Fremont.

What gives?

That crazy landlady.

She's chained up all the meters.

I can't do my job.

OK, I got bolt

cutters in the trunk.

Don't touch those.

Someone's trying to sabotage me.

They're deliberately trying

to put me out of business.

You can't padlock

the meters, lady.

OK, John, I've got this.

My water bill is

through the roof,

and I got tenants complaining.

You want them to up and leave?

He's right though.

You can't keep the city

from accessing your meters.

Hah!

Now you're taking

his side, are you?

That's the way it always is.

The police state just

keeping their thumbs

on all the little people.

Don't want to have to

write you a citation.

So if you could just

remove the chains--

And let the saboteurs

just waltz back in

and do the state's dirty work?

Nuh-uh, not on my watch.

We'll just cut

them off then, right

after I write you a ticket.

A ticket?

For protecting my own property?

There's better ways

of dealing with it.

Tell that to the folks that

want to drive me off my land!

That's it.

You're under arrest.

No, wait.

Wait, you can't take me.

What about Jimmy Stewart?

He's old.

He can't hold it that long.

You want to add resisting?

Watch your head.

Next on the docket, the

People versus Darla Sandhaven.

Two counts disorderly conduct,

one count misdemeanor battery.

Do you have representation,

Mrs. Sandhaven?

If it please the court,

I will represent myself.

I strongly recommend

that you retain counsel.

If you cannot afford an

attorney, we can appoint one.

This should have been

explained to you.

Well, it was, your honor.

And I believe that no one is as

clear eyed about the situation

as I am.

Noted.

Well, how do you plead?

Not guilty.

All right then.

Mr. Carmichael, the

state's argument.

Thank you, your honor.

Mrs. Sandhaven's

latest infraction

was a deliberate,

premeditated, and willful act

of battery on a public

servant to which he virtually

confessed in detail,

rather smugly I may add,

in her arraignment.

Her statement, along with

the written testimony

from the arresting officer,

is exhibit A and B.

After reviewing Mrs. Sandhaven's

case files, including

her previous history of

assaults, reckless endangerment,

disorderly conduct, it

is my recommendation

that she be held to the

strictest account for her latest

flagrant violation and be

sentenced according to state

guidelines, including

fines, community service,

and possible incarceration.

Mrs. Sandhaven, your argument.

Community service--

that's what I do.

That's what I've always done.

It's not like I'm out

here striking it rich.

I serve the members

of my community

by keeping them

free from an ever

increasing number of

interlopers and ne'er do wells.

These ne'er do

wells she speaks

of happen to be city utility

personnel on routine checks.

There's nothing

routine about them.

They've been coming

with increased frequency

ever since my husband died.

And every time, every damn time

they come up with something,

that cost me money.

It's a conspiracy, I tell you.

A conspiracy to get me and

my tenants off my land.

JUDGE: I'd caution

you, Mrs. Sandhaven.

That conspiracy is he is

notoriously difficult to prove.

Do you have any

material evidence

to support your argument?

My own eyes, and my intellect.

I maintain that these

acts of vandalism--

no, sabotage-- are

a deliberate attempt

to run up the cost

of my operation

and run me off my land.

That's all you have?

Well, a person's word

used to count for something.

In the absence of any concrete

evidence to support your case,

I find you guilty.

I sentence you to

six months probation

and to pay a fine of $5,000.

$5,000?

My taxes are already delinquent.

If I don't give them what I have

by the 24th, they'll auction

off my whole property.

I'll have to sell.

Would you rather go to jail?

Well, no.

Jimmy Stewart needs me.

All right then.

This court is adjourned.

This way, please.

Hey.

Is that how you operate?

Pretty much.

Makes it easy when

they refuse counsel.

You realize what you've

just done to that woman.

Wait, was that one of your--

Yes, it was.

I just thought you'd show a

little more compassion, knowing

what she's been through.

I guess I was wrong.

Mercedes, wait.

I've got human beings to help.

Well, you heard the charges.

You heard the evidence.

She can't just break

the law with impunity.

Well, maybe if you

looked a little bit deeper,

you'd see that her circumstances

warrant her behavior.

Are you making

excuses for her?

No, I just think that

people deserve to be heard

and maybe have a second chance.

According to her record, this

was her fourth or fifth chance.

That's not the point.

What's the point, then?

How about addressing

the root cause?

You mean her

conspiracy theory?

She's not crazy.

That much I do know.

But maybe if you spent more

than 30 seconds summing up

a human being's worth from their

rap sheet, you'd know that, too.

Are we still on for dinner?

Not an ounce of compassion.

The board will

force me to sell.

Not a shred.

No way I can come up with

the tax money before Christmas.

How could he do such a thing?

Can you believe that they

made the final deadline

on Christmas Eve?

How soulless do you have to be?

Soulless, that's what he is.

Are we talking

about the same thing?

What?

Oh, yes.

I'm sorry.

We'll figure something out.

Like what?

Everyone thinks I'm crazy.

No.

Do you know why anyone would

want to sabotage the park?

No.

Unless you count Bruce Maybury.

He'd set up his

tent on the back 40.

I turned a blind eye till

his trash started blowing

into the resident's yards.

Had to kick him out.

It ended up in court.

And he's hated me ever since.

I don't think Bruce would

go through all that trouble

to get back at you for something

that happened that long ago.

Well, he's a stubborn man.

As stubborn as you are?

Nah.

Not even close.

In fact, I've been getting

more offers on my property.

But I won't let him have it.

Well, maybe you

should take their offer.

Retire someplace nice.

And what would my tenants do?

They don't want to keep

it as a mobile home park?

No, they want to turn it into

another dad blamed resort hotel.

Just plow it under,

everything Darryl and I

built for the last 50 years.

Well, I'll help where I can.

I promise.

I know you will, sweetie.

I know.

We got here tequilas,

scotch, whiskies,

Woody Creek distillers,

local favorite,

and Stranahan, of course.

Soda gun, ice well, redwater

on draft, tours, yada yada.

This place stay pretty busy?

Well, there's the Oprey Ski,

and then there's the Oprey Oprey

Ski, if you know what I mean.

Yeah, keeps me hopping, too.

That's right.

You're the new prosecutor.

Crazy.

Yeah.

Isn't that like a

conflict of interest,

booze 'em and bust 'em, liquor

them up and lock them up

for being drunk and disorderly?

Well, I don't tell

them how much to drink.

Right.

Hey, take this to

Bruce over there.

He's a bit of a hard case.

And he's cranky when

you cut him off.

But he's cool.

Got it.

Hey, there.

Another one.

One step ahead of you.

Anything else I can get for you?

Some food?

Just that.

Right on.

You're a Red Sox fan?

You're a fan, or are

you just getting chatty?

Well, I'm from Texas.

We can be a bit chatty,

but we love our sports.

Astros are my team.

And anytime they play the

Red Sox, man, it was special.

Best team in the

league, in the world.

Win or lose, no one's

got nothing on them.

You're what I

call a super fan.

Dyed in the wool.

We'll just have to

compare notes when

spring training rolls around.

I'll be here.

You're a natural, bro.

I haven't seen Bruce

smile in, like, 10 years.

Really?

Yeah, man.

Hard nut to crack.

Well, I had to do this to help

put myself through law school.

So I've had a bit of practice.

Sweet.

Just never thought I'd have

to do it alongside my job

as an attorney.

Welcome to Aspen, bro.

I'm a liftie, a

bartender, a bike

mechanic, a barista on

weekends, unless there's powder,

of course.

Of course.

Hey, speaking of--

Yeah, man.

There's this girl--

Ooh, here we go.

She's a ski instructor.

She says she works at Snowmask.

But I'm a newbie, so I don't

know exactly where to find her.

Why didn't you just ask her?

Well, we had an argument,

and she's actually my roommate.

And I just don't want

to make things more

awkward than they already are.

So you thought a little

stalking would do the trick?

It's not stalking.

I just-- I just

thought it'd be better

to meet outside the apartment

just to clear the air.

What's her name?

Mercedes.

Yeah, yeah.

Brunette, about yay tall.

Yeah.

She's a sweetie, bro.

You must have done something

gnarly to get on her bad side.

Tell me about it.

I think it's just a big

misunderstanding, though.

And I'd really like to

get back on her good side.

I got you.

I got you.

I'll see where she starts in

the morning, and I'll text you.

Sweet, man.

Thanks.

I guess I got another new job.

What's that?

Wingman.

Well, I'm afraid this one

won't pay you very well.

No worries, bro.

This one is on the house.

Or how do you lawyers say it?

I'll do it Pro bonobo.

[upbeat music]

Yeah, let me-- let

me help you with that.

Oh, thanks.

There you go.

You should have

left when I said.

Now we're going to have

to wait for the next one.

What?

You're in such a

hurry just to complain

about your boots all day?

I need new boots.

You always say.

They pinch.

They are bad boots.

Will someone please buy

this man some new boots

so he can complain

about something else?

I hope you weren't

expecting a nice, quiet ride

to the mountain.

Because he is not nice

and she is not quiet.

Don't scare the poor boy.

He looks new.

Yeah.

You can tell?

We can smell fear.

Stop.

Oh, is that obvious, isn't it?

This mountain has devoured

more than its fair share

of neophytes.

Please.

He's right.

Chews 'em up and spits them out.

Well, to be honest, it's

not really the the mountain

I'm afraid of.

I smell a story coming.

Do tell.

Well, there's this girl.

See, I told you-- we

always pick the best

people to ride the bus with.

We have five minutes

until the next bus comes.

With our luck, it'll

be more like 15 minutes.

Only thing that

runs more often

than the buses is your mouth.

[inaudible]

OK.

Well, it all started when--

[upbeat music]

Yeah, you're screwed.

No, he is not.

I don't know.

Hell hath no fury.

No, no.

Here's what you gotta do.

Women like a man of confidence.

A confidence man?

Oh, great advice that.

You know what I meant.

I would give anything for a man

who means what he says and says

what he means.

Unless he's talking

about his ski boots,

then she wants you to get lost.

Is that it?

I have never asked

you to get lost.

I have asked you to

stop complaining.

Complaining is the only way

I can get you to pay attention.

Attention to what?

Your sore feet?

No, my lonely heart.

But I'm no con man.

I can't trick you into

seeing me for who I am.

All I can do is tell the truth.

And what's that?

That I have loved

you for years.

And these little ski

jaunts are the only way I

can get to spend time with you.

Haven't you mean to tell me--

Yes, I mean to tell you.

It's not new boots

that I need, Carol.

It's a new life, with you.

Oh, Alan.

That was sudden.

I've seen it bubbling

under the surface.

When it's right, it's right.

You'll see.

Someday my princess will

come, as will yours.

Maybe even today.

Maybe.

Here's your

chance to find out.

Here comes the bus.

Should we--

No, no, no.

Just let nature take its course.

You're just going to meet

your instructor over there.

Have fun.

Hey.

Hey.

Look, I just--

sorry.

Yeah, I know that

yesterday wasn't--

sorry-- an ideal day for you.

Well, for me, for that matter.

And--

Not ideal.

Interesting way to put it.

Yeah.

No, I just want to say

that I'm sorry that it

turned out that way.

Justin, I'm working right now.

To keep a professional

distance when I'm on the job.

Of course.

Yeah, sorry.

I've got to go teach.

Do you need a ski lesson?

Well, actually, yeah.

What level are you teaching?

Beginners.

OK, great.

Yeah, I'll just follow you then.

How much is it?

Oh, it'll be my treat.

All right.

See those nice big snakes again.

Great job.

Nice job, Rohan.

That's awesome.

Justin, pull's to

the side of you.

Nice job.

Great form.

All right, we're

turning, Justin.

We're turning.

This way, this way.

You're going to fall

off the mountain.

All right.

Ski like you're from Texas.

Very good.

Let's see your unicorn horn.

Nice job, [inaudible].

Whoa!

Justin, let's have ski

steps facing downhill.

Think more about a French fry.

All right, that's a pizza pie.

Parallel skis, parallel skis.

Can we see your unicorn horns?

Very good.

All right.

Now make a nice big

snake down the ski slope.

Very good, very good.

All right, stay loose.

Stay loose.

Yeah, let's see

your shark fins, OK?

Oh, great job.

All right, Justin.

Let's see that French fry.

That French fry.

Pulls up.

Let's have pulls up.

All right.

Close.

Let's face downhill.

Face downhill.

Ski tips downhill.

That's how you ski.

All right.

Too bad we don't have the

beginner beginner class.

All right, nice job, girls.

Whoa, whoa, whoa.

Hey, hey.

You hurt?

I can help her.

No, no, I got it.

Leilani and I are buds.

Right, Leilani?

No.

Well, just getting to

know each other, right?

Can I help you up?

I just can't get it.

I'll never get it.

Of course, you will.

Just look how much better

you've gotten just today

Really?

Yeah.

In fact, I'm watching you

to learn how to do it.

Here, let me help you out.

My grandpa used to

tell me, Justin,

if the horse bucks you

off, you just gotta get

right back up on the saddle.

My grandpa was a cowboy.

Well, I'm not a cowgirl.

I'm a skier.

Exactly.

You are a skier.

Now you get back

up on those skis

and you show em who's

in charge, little missy.

You're weird.

I'll take that

as a compliment.

Ride 'em, cowgirl.

Yee-haw!

That was sweet.

Oh.

Maybe someday you'll

be a ski instructor.

I doubt that, but--

I think I am ready to take

things to the next level.

Oh, really?

Welcome to the next level.

Yeah, no, I don't think--

Just remember your training.

Yee-haw.

[screams]

How'd you like the next level?

You mean, how do I

like attempted murder?

Oh, bless your heart.

That was a green run, I'd

say manslaughter at best.

Very funny.

Well, my work here is done.

Thanks for the lesson.

My pleasure.

A few more and you

might get to mediocre.

[chatter]

Oh, boy.

Oh.

Looks like you may

have a stalker.

What?

Oh, you got to be kidding me.

Hey.

Isn't he your new roommate?

You're right.

He is cute.

Candace.

She's not wrong.

Yes, he's my roommate.

And also my ski student.

And my best client's

worst enemy.

Hey.

And now my bartender.

You take small town living

to a whole new level.

I can see you're still upset.

You think.

Look, I'm just

trying to do my job.

We can be civil about this.

Civil?

This coming from a

so-called civil servant.

So-called?

You ever hear of a

prosecutorial discretion?

Of course, I have.

Or are you just

the self-appointed

iron fist of justice?

Hey, Merce?

You a big fan

of the guillotine?

Off with their heads.

Mercedes, people are staring.

I hope you don't

bartend like you ski.

Ouch.

Hey, ladies.

Rayleen.

Nice to see you again.

Braden.

How about I take your orders

at the table over there?

That sounds great.

Merce?

Yeah, sounds great.

What was that about, bro?

Mercedes.

She's just-- I can't--

How is she--

Bro, I'll take care of it.

Thanks.

But I gotta fight

my own battles.

OK.

Just know that it's

three against one.

Well, actually, with Rayleen,

it's more like four or five

against one.

Well, I'll just have to stay

on her good side then, won't I?

So I'm in my towel.

And I'm shouting, hold on.

But the dog was barking

and the music was blaring.

So he comes in, he's

like, I'm so sorry.

I thought you said, come in.

Oh, my.

What did you do?

Well, he was a

perfect gentleman

and turned away and

closed the door.

Oh, boring.

Oh, I thought it was sweet.

Speaking of gentlemen.

Oh, no.

Ladies, sorry to

interrupt, but Braden

got pulled off in

another direction.

What can I get for

you this evening?

For you, miss?

I'll just have

a vodka Martini,

straight up, with a

twist, and a hint of gin.

A Vesper.

Perfect for a bona fide

bond girl like yourself.

Shaken, not stirred.

Oh, you're good.

Coming right up.

And for you, miss?

Can I do a Hemingway daiquiri?

Absolutely.

But around here, we

call it a lover's muse.

Perfect for a little

evening inspiration.

Oh, hopefully it'll inspire

a sequel to that story.

Oh, don't worry.

There's already a part two.

[laughter]

And you, Mercedes?

Just a sparkling lemon water.

Are you sure?

Yeah.

All right.

One lightweight coming up.

Wait, are you suggesting--

I've got suggestions.

Roy Rogers, Shirley

Temple, Tap water.

If you take your drinks

like you take your chili,

kind limits your

options, though.

You know what?

Give me a Sazerac with a twist.

That's a very

sophisticated drink.

Will you please just--

Got it.

One vesper, one lover's

muse, and one little miss

can't be wrong.

That's the local name.

Coming right up.

[laughter]

What?

Seriously, what?

He has got you pegged.

What, you think

I'm a lightweight?

No, little miss

can't be wrong.

[laughter]

[eerie music]

Who did this?

It's hard to tell.

It might have been an

improperly vented system.

Gas built up and boom,

blew the lids off.

You seriously think

this happened on its own?

We haven't found any

evidence to the contrary.

Yet.

Oh, thank you for coming.

Jim, Brenda.

Surely you can see now that

this is more than a coincidence.

We know that the

residents are angry.

Occupancy is down another 5%.

And I heard that

another couple of owners

are ready to pull up stakes.

Oh, we always have turnover.

That's not unusual.

What is unusual

is we've had a 300%

increase in maintenance issues

over the past six months.

And it doesn't seem

like management

is able to keep up with them.

Management?

You mean me.

We just feel that,

given the circumstances,

if the right offer

comes along, everyone

is better off selling

now before our value

continues its downward spiral.

We're going to have an

emergency vote this afternoon.

You can come and

speak your mind.

But I'm pretty sure of

the way it's going to go.

[laughter]

And I thought the drunk

tank at the jail smelled bad.

Oh, boy.

Thank you for your service.

Do you think it's sabotage,

like Mrs. Sandhaven claims?

Or she's vandalizing

her own place

to get an insurance payout.

She seems genuinely

distraught by the whole thing.

She have an alibi?

She said she was watching a

movie with with Jimmy Stewart.

She's dead set on there

being some nefarious

force out to get her.

And there's this.

Found it near the septic tank

under a pile of-- you know.

Is there any chance we

could trace it to the owner?

Not without doing a DNA trace.

Probably going to find

a lot of other DNA,

considering where they found it.

This has gone too far.

We need to contain

this, and quick.

City council's already

breathing down my neck.

Yes, sir.

I'll look into it.

Thank you for the update.

No problem.

Oh, one more thing.

I hear the mobile home

board voted to sell.

She's going to lose

the place after all.

Find me the perp.

How goes the feud, dude?

I think I lost.

Condolences, bro.

Mercedes is a fine

specimen of humanity.

I thought so.

But everything just--

we're just too different.

Maybe.

Maybe.

Maybe it's not about winning.

I mean, from what I

understand, you lawyers

think in terms of winning,

losing, or settling, right?

Those are the main options.

Maybe it's more like curling.

Curling?

Yeah, it's like

Canadian bowling.

[scoffs]

This one guy pulls this

rock thingy down the ice.

While the other guy

brushes the ice to make it

go as far as it can or

in the right direction.

So as the bowler, you're putting

all your energy towards pushing

that rock thingy.

And as the brusher,

you're doing everything

you can to help the

bowler clearing the path,

doing everything you

can to support him.

So--

So sometimes

you're the bowler,

and sometimes

you're the brusher.

And you take turns

supporting each other.

Either way, you win

or lose together.

So we're different,

but complementary.

Thanks, man.

I appreciate compliments.

No, I mean--

well, yes.

Thank you.

That was a great analogy.

There are so many life

analogies in winter sports.

Take the Winter X

Games, for example.

You could make an

entire philosophy

course on how the halfpipe

is an ontological analog

for existence.

I mean, Dante's

Inferno has nothing

on the perils of

executing two back

to front 1440s under pressure.

Oh, he's your friend.

[eerie music]

Hey, buddy.

Hey, top of the

evening to you.

You're feeling chipper.

Yeah, just got paid.

That's a nice

feeling, isn't it?

Tonight, I'm drinking

from the top shelf.

Stranahan's mountain angel.

Coming right up.

Hey, between you and me, I'm

hoping you're planning on saving

some of that for a rainy day.

Hey, mind your

own business, chum.

No offense, but

I thought you might

need to get yourself a new hat.

I-- yeah, I--

I lost mine the other day.

Any idea where you

might have left it?

Maybe I can help you find it.

No, that's all right.

I'll just get me a new one.

[phone vibrates]

Matter of fact,

I think I'm gonna

go get me a new one right now.

Most stores are closed.

Gal's pharmacy's open.

They got everything.

Anything else I can get you?

Maybe when my

associate gets here.

All right, then.

Just ask, OK?

Thank you, ma'am.

Who are you walking to

the gallows this time?

Please, have a seat.

You want anything to drink?

Tea, coffee--

Straight answer would be nice.

Please?

Molly makes a mean

cup of cocoa--

Can we cut to the chase?

Alrighty.

I'll just come right

out with it, then.

Please do.

Look, I just--

I wanted to apologize

about the whole drink

thing and the Christmas tree.

I was upset.

I don't know.

I just-- sometimes I feel like

I have to have the last word.

Is that really

what you think of me?

What?

Little miss can't be wrong.

Well, I mean,

we're both a little--

Bullheaded?

I was going to say

determined, but yeah.

And I could be bullheaded, but

that could be a good thing.

It'd better be.

This is not going to

be a very good apology.

No, really.

I mean, and your case,

it means you care a lot

about protecting your clients.

But really, I'm sorry.

I want to say anything,

but I'm sorry.

And it won't happen again.

I guess I was a bit harsh.

I'm a pretty bad

skier, aren't I?

No, no, you seriously

have a lot of potential.

Really?

Really.

Your skills literally

have nowhere to go but up.

[laughter]

Hey.

All right.

Hey, but speaking of

protecting your clients,

I've got some good news.

Go on.

About who's been

vandalizing Shady Vista.

Sabotage.

I've got a suspect.

Who?

I, uh, can't say.

It's a pending case.

It's another one of

my clients, isn't it?

Look, I think that--

It's Bruce, isn't it?

I can neither

confirm‎ nor deny.

He's harmless.

Did you not learn anything

from the last time?

Mercedes, we have

smoking gun evidence.

What's more, we have motive.

Look, this person has had bad

blood with Darla for years,

and that's easy to prove.

And that's just what's

in the official records.

I could probably get a

dozen witnesses to testify.

They've had it out

for each other.

Whoever is pulling the

strings is using that knowledge

to their advantage.

Can you prove that?

Work with me.

What?

Look, I know we don't always

see eye to eye on things.

But until we can

find enough evidence

to go after a

mysterious conspirator,

we have to follow the

evidence where it leads us,

to the suspect.

They're both victims.

Bruce can be ornery

and show poor judgment,

but someone's been manipulating

him to get to Darla.

I know it.

Do you think he

would testify to that?

Getting Bruce to

testify about anything

would be like pulling teeth.

Even to keep

himself out of jail?

He's not a talker, for one.

Not a talker?

Have you met Bruce?

- Have you tried baseball?

- What?

Boston Red Sox specifically.

He's nuts about it.

How would you know?

Because, believe it

or not, I don't just sum

people up by their rap sheet.

We talk at the bar.

Unfortunately, the fact I

know he loves the Red Sox

is the reason why we

have him dead to rights

on the vandalism charge.

What do you mean?

I can't say anymore.

Just know that we have evidence

that puts him at the scene.

So what am I supposed to do?

Anything else I can get you?

Yes.

No.

Just the check, please.

All right then.

Look, I know more

want to convict

the wrong person than you.

So let's work together.

Let's agree to disagree.

Let's bury the hatchet

to protect the innocent.

What do you want me to do?

Will you talk to him?

Last night at the bar, he was

flashing a fat stack of cash.

Where did he get that?

Just start there and see

what you can get out of it.

I'm not an interrogator.

No, but you're

incredibly empathetic.

Just be you.

OK.

I'll talk to Mrs. Sandhaven.

I'm not sure

that's a good idea.

She blames you for throwing

another log on the fire

of her burning dreams.

Ouch.

OK.

I'll just listen.

If she lets you

in the front door.

Let me know when you've

had the conversation.

We can circle back

to pair notes.

Deal?

You two been dating long?

What?

No, no, we just live together.

No, no, no, I mean,

she's my roommate.

Thank you for the cocoa.

My pleasure.

You, get off my property!

Is that a loaded

squirrel, Mrs. Sandhaven?

And I'm not afraid to use it.

So I've heard.

Look, I'm just here to talk.

Talk, talk, talk.

That's all anyone wants to do.

No, thank you.

Mercedes believes you,

Darla, about the conspiracy

to get you off your property.

And I trust Mercedes.

Is that so?

I just can't prove it, yet.

Will you help me?

Well?

I've never taken a deposition

at squirrel point before.

So I might be a

little off my game.

But yeah, when you

put it all together,

it certainly seems more

than a coincidence.

Seems?

You'd have to be brain

dead not to see a pattern.

And you're sure all these

dates and times are correct?

To the minute.

Do you have any suspects?

Would you say

that Bruce Maybury--

I knew it.

Hold on, Mrs. Sandhaven.

Would you say that

Bruce Maybury has

the temperament to commit a

prolonged campaign of sabotage

all on his own?

No.

He can be spiteful,

sure, but he doesn't

exercise a lot of forethought.

Right.

So we need more

than just a series

of possibly connected

events perpetrated

by an individual suspect.

I always thought it

was the government.

Do you see the government

being the mastermind

behind something like this?

Good point.

They also run the

Aspen Post Office.

Right.

So that leaves who?

The developers.

Those sneaky little--

Do you have a name?

It's-- the company is--

oh, wait.

Here.

Trash day was Tuesday.

That's OK.

DARLA: I'm sure

there'll be another.

Do you mind if I put

this in the freezer?

It's thawing.

Yeah, go ahead.

Could it be

Flagstone Holdings?

DARLA: That's it!

Another piece of the puzzle.

Now we just have to

see how it fits together.

If it fits together.

I'll see if I can

connect the dots.

Before Christmas Eve.

The goose is getting fat.

I'll do my best.

I promise.

Good afternoon, Bruce.

I'm really glad you

could come in today.

Got any cream?

I-- sure.

Here you go.

I'm a little concerned about--

Sugar.

Bruce.

Pretty please?

I hear you like the Red Sox.

I didn't do nothing wrong.

Bruce, I am not trying

to get you in trouble,

but police think

you did something.

And Darla says someone who

matches your description was

seen recently at Shady Vista.

Oh, she would.

Bruce, you've made some

great progress since we've

been working together.

You really have.

But in order to continue

receiving our services,

you have to be

following the rules.

Otherwise, the benefits stop.

And if you are mixed

up in this, you'll

be getting a whole new range

of services from the state,

just in very, very

tight quarters.

You mean prison.

No way.

Uh-uh.

I've been there before.

It wasn't nearly as

fun as they promised.

I can see it

left an impression.

Impression?

That's another word for it.

Look, he told me

it was a real job.

A real job.

You keep telling me I

should get one of those.

And he said, all I had to do

was go over a couple of times

and knock things around.

Wait, Bruce, are you saying

someone paid you to do this?

What's his name?

I don't know his name.

Who was it?

I want my lawyer.

Bruce, come on.

No.

I know how this works.

I rat someone out, but

he's got an airtight alibi.

He skates.

And I'm the one that

ends up doing time.

No, I'm not saying a word.

I maintain my innocence.

I plead the fifth, or whatever

it is you have to say,

to get them to leave me alone.

What if I told you that the

Deputy DA, your friend, Justin,

from the bar, he

isn't after you.

He wants a bigger fish.

Uh-uh.

What if I told you that

there was a reward for bringing

that bigger fish to justice?

Two tickets to the next

Red Sox Rockies game.

Plus around trip bus

ticket to Denver.

Money for hot dogs and beer?

Bruce, tell me

everything you know.

Hey.

Hey.

How'd it go with Bruce?

Getting anywhere with Darla?

Well, there's something, but

it's fairly circumstantial.

What is it?

Look, check this out.

Flagstone Holdings is

a developer of hotels

and high rise apartments.

They have been aggressively

pursuing Shady Vista.

OK, we knew that.

Check this out.

This is an offer from

nearly a year ago.

And these are offers

from three months ago,

six weeks ago, and one week ago.

Look at the amounts.

This one is lower.

This one is way lower.

Bingo.

Well, in my experience

with corporate law,

when someone is aggressively

trying to buy you out,

the offers typically go up.

Right.

But wasn't Darla saying that the

maintenance issues were causing

her property to lose value?

Yes, but that wouldn't be

reflected in any public records

yet.

Look at the dates of the offers.

And now look at the dates of

the vandalism, or the sabotage.

This one is dated--

wait a minute.

This is right after

the electrical panel

was seriously shorted out.

And this one.

Just a day after

the water issues--

this can't be a coincidence.

Fishy, right?

Someone must be feeding the

developer info on the vandalism.

And they're making

their offer, hoping

for an emotional knee jerk

reaction to sell the property.

Which they got.

But it's all circumstantial.

We can't take down Flagstone

Holdings without hard evidence.

Please tell me you

got Bruce to talk.

I don't think I

got anything useful.

Well, what did he say?

Well, someone paid him to

mess around with the park,

but he doesn't know who it was.

And he wouldn't be

able to identify him.

How did they communicate?

Someone dropped him a phone.

They'd send him an

address for a drop.

He gets instructions and cash.

I looked at all the texts.

Pretty devoid of detail

and drop time and location.

The last message just

said, that's all for now.

Did he keep any

of the instructions?

They told him to burn them

after reading, which he did.

Did you get the number?

Yeah, some area code in Texas.

I'll text it to you.

Think you can trace it?

Well, Texas is a

pretty big place.

My guess is that

it's a burner phone.

There might be a chance we're

able to track the purchase,

though.

Is there anything else?

Nothing, really.

He's really nervous

about getting arrested.

I guess there's a couple

other places we can look.

You said it was a

matter of public record

that Darla and Bruce were

at each other's throats.

Yeah, court proceedings,

claims filed, et cetera.

Why?

I'm going to go

check on something.

What?

Just following a hunch.

Sound like a

detective already.

Just the facts, ma'am.

See you tonight?

You got it.

Not yet.

I understand.

I'll talk to the

judge, get a warrant.

Yeah, we'll bring him in.

[sighs]

You're here.

Great.

Yeah.

What'd you got?

I talked to Candace

at the clerk's office,

and she gave me a

report of anyone

who requested public records of

Shady Vista in general and Darla

specifically.

OK, and?

Three different companies

made records requests

over the last year,

but Flagstone Holdings

made more inquiries by far.

All right, well, we already

knew they were interested, so--

But get this--

they also made inquiries

about Bruce Maybury.

And they seemed particularly

interested in the bad blood

between Bruce and Darla.

So you're saying Flagstone

Holdings was digging up

dirt on both Darla and

Bruce in order to leverage

them against one another?

Yes, you see?

These guys are dirty, Justin.

We need to take them down!

Oh!

Sorry.

Yeah, yeah.

Hold on.

Who made the inquiries?

Flagstone Holdings.

No, no, no, no.

Who specifically?

I don't know.

Someone with the email of

legal@flagstoneholdings.com.

So can you bring charges?

- Hold on.

- What?

This Is it.

This is the evidence we need.

It's evidence, yes,

but it's not proof.

From what I've read, Flagstone

Holdings is squeaky clean.

They have a stellar

reputation in the communities

they invest in.

Reputations can be bought.

Temporarily, maybe.

But they've been in

business for decades

with a proven track record of

giving back to the community.

They can just say that they

were doing their due diligence.

We need something more.

Something concrete.

How about the phone number?

That's something, right?

It's a dead end.

The number was a

pay as you go phone.

Without a full

forensic investigation,

there's no way to trace

who purchased it or where.

So do the forensic

investigation.

It's too thin.

I know Judge Reinhold.

She'll need more to

establish probable cause.

But--

What she has is enough

to bring in Bruce.

Justin, please.

We need more time.

We don't have more time.

The last incident

was an explosion

that could have been deadly.

I don't want to see

what happens next.

He won't do it again.

I know Bruce.

And I know my boss.

The DA wants to bring him in.

At least it will be

some justice served.

Justin.

Justice delayed

is justice denied.

And justice misapplied

is no justice at all.

Mercedes, I mean--

Bruce is terrified of prison.

That much I could tell.

Well, maybe we can use that as

leverage, get him to plea down.

I can't believe

you just said that.

What?

Maybe it'll help him

remember something.

Anything that would help us.

He doesn't know who it is.

You know what?

Fine, go after Bruce.

Take him down if that's

what makes you feel better.

And when Darla has to sell

and loses everything she

and her husband worked

their whole life for,

I'm pretty sure you

won't lose any sleep.

Mercedes, that's not--

it doesn't make me feel better.

I just--

Why is she like this?

Her heart bleeds so much, she's

going to need a transfusion.

I have to spend

one more second

with that stuck up,

overreaching, officious

type, so help me, I will--

[grunts]

[screams]

And she tries to tell

me how to do my job?

Who do you think you are?

Seriously, who

does he think he is?

You know what, I'm going to

ask her that very question.

Hey, Merces,

it's kind of late.

Sorry, Aunt Ray.

I just need to talk.

I--

Is this about your roommate?

- How'd you know?

- Oh, I don't know.

Maybe because every

time you've opened

your mouth over the

last couple of weeks,

you say something about him.

Really?

Oh, Merces.

He's so-- he always--

Now, honey.

Nobody always or nevers.

She's too forgiving.

You want to know how I know?

Well, ladies and gentlemen of

the jury, what we have here

is a case of an overly

sentimental woman who believes

that compassion for the criminal

is more important than justice

for the victim.

That's right.

Exhibit A. It's

even in her name--

Mercedes.

It's French for mercy.

Boom!

You want the truth?

You can't handle the truth!

I mean, mercy can't

rob justice, right?

Otherwise, where would we be?

Inmates running the asylum?

MERCEDES: No, you're right.

He just-- I just--

when he moved in, and I got to

know him, he just seemed so--

I don't know.

Ideal.

Yeah, I guess so.

But he's so--

Idealistic.

Yeah.

Sounds like

somebody else I know.

Rayleen, I'm serious.

So am I, dear.

You're just as

idealistic as he is.

Maybe even more so.

Well--

I'm not finished.

From what I gather, he's

guided by principles.

And are they all that

different from yours?

Well--

I mean, he wants to see

people treated right, right?

I guess.

He believes in

fairness for all.

And he wants to see justice

for the victims of crimes.

Yeah, but it feels

like he wants to be

like the long arm of the law.

OK, then you just be the--

I don't know--

outstretched hand of mercy.

And meet in the middle

and shake on it.

I mean, there's room

for both in civic life,

and in relationships.

I should know.

I've had a lot.

No, no, you're right.

I mean, well, I actually

liked that about her.

She's kind.

Well, not to me, but-- yeah.

I mean, she treats everyone

like they're family.

She doesn't care if you're

rich or you're poor.

She just treats people

like people, which

is what the law should do.

I mean, everyone's

equal under the law.

The law can't forgive.

Only people forgive.

The law should bring out

the best in people, right?

And to forgive is, well,

divine, as they say.

So the law should encourage

forgiveness, right?

Right?

Mercedes Is forgiving, right?

Maybe she'll forgive me

if I show a little mercy.

I don't know if I can.

Just kiss and make up.

Ray.

You have some

mistletoe, don't you?

I've always found

that's a great excuse.

Aunt Ray!

Fine, don't kiss him.

I just know I would

if I were you.

Oh!

OK.

I mean, seriously,

cute, smart.

He's got that little

thing called integrity.

The total package.

Isn't that what you

said a few weeks ago?

OK, OK.

Thanks for your help.

That's all I'm saying.

OK, bye, Rayleen.

Bye, hon.

[laughter]

Hey, I--

No, sorry.

You go first.

No, go ahead.

I found this out here.

Oh, yeah.

I don't know how

that got out here.

Maybe just wandered

off or something.

Yeah.

About that--

Before you say anything,

I just wanted to ask--

I'll let you

out of your lease.

What?

I'll let you

out of your lease.

- No--

- I know it's been hard for you.

I mean, we are polar opposites.

Mercedes, no.

If that's what

you really wanted,

I'm sure I could do that.

I'm sure I could find

another roommate.

Is that what you want?

I mean, it hasn't been

easy for either of us.

Well, that's what I

wanted to talk to you about.

OK, done.

Consider the lease

null and void.

You can go, if you want.

OK.

No, no, Mercedes.

That's-- that's not what I want.

What I wanted to ask you--

look, I know that I've been

arrogant and unyielding,

pompous and--

well, as my grandfather used

to say-- a bit of a git.

And I just wanted to

tell you that I'm sorry.

And that I could use

a dose of humility.

And who better to get it from

than the kindest, most loving,

most compassionate

person I've ever met?

And if you believe that

Bruce deserves some leniency,

then I won't go after him.

I'll find out something

to tell my boss.

That is--

That is very kind of you.

Thank you.

You know, Rayleen says I let

my idealism get in the way

of real life sometimes.

Yeah, for me, too.

She thinks moderation is best.

Keep your ideals, but make room

for other people's principles,

too.

She's a wise woman.

Of course, she also thinks

we should kiss and make up.

Did I mention what a

wise woman Rayleen is?

Maybe she's right.

Yeah, about a lot of things.

Maybe.

She just might be the

wisest person that I knew.

Before this goes

any further, I

just want to make sure that

we're going to work together.

Of course.

That we can trust each other.

Absolutely.

And that we can consult

on the important things.

Exactly.

Like Bruce and Darla.

There's got to be

something more there.

He may not know who's

been pulling the strings,

but he's definitely

been the puppet.

And poor, downtrodden

guy like Bruce, they knew

exactly what strings to pull.

Bruce told me today,

he was only doing it

because the guy said he

was going to offer him

some nice crisp Cleveland's.

I don't even think. $1,000 bills

are even in circulation anymore.

What did you just say?

He's downtrodden, and he

just needs a guiding hand.

After that.

Oh, just that the guy said

he was going to give him

a bunch of Cleveland's

for Messing

around with the trailer park.

He said Cleveland's?

You sure?

- Yeah.

I mean, who says that, anyway?

Nobody, unless--

What?

I think I know who's been

sabotaging Mrs. Sandhaven.

Who?

Come with me.

Oh, hey.

Max, don't keep us waiting.

You're right.

It's Christmas Eve.

Your gift then, all wrapped

up with a gold ribbon.

I am pleased to share that the

way is now clear for Flagstone

Holdings to acquire

Shady Vista mobile home

park for pennies on the dollar.

You did it then.

Scrape it flat to make

way for the five star

Queen Regent Hotel and Resort.

And the owner

is happy to sell?

Oh, she is absolutely

beside herself with relief.

- Well--

- Yes.

We were skeptical, I admit it.

But you promised,

and you delivered.

Well, I do what I can.

Let this be the start of a

long and fruitful relationship.

JUSTIN: I wouldn't count on it.

Excuse me?

Mr. Carmichael.

Sorry to interrupt, Mr.

Samuels, Mrs. Ellspermann.

I have some business to

conduct with your attorney.

It's good to see you.

Aspen's treating

you well, I hope.

It was a near

perfect conspiracy.

Leverage two people with bad

blood to do your dirty work.

Meanwhile, you sit off in the

shadows and pull the strings.

I have no idea what

you're talking about.

But it was your greed

that gave you away.

An obscure reference

to $1,000 bills.

It was but a few phone

calls to connect you

to the firm that's been

trying a little bit too hard

to acquire Shady Vista.

You have no idea what

you're talking about.

What is he talking about?

Judge Reinhold seems

to understand perfectly.

And she has a Christmas

present for you--

an arrest warrant.

You can't be serious.

You're under arrest

for wire fraud,

vandalism, making false

statements, and conspiracy.

This is outrageous, Justin.

You have nothing on me.

We have witnesses that

will testify otherwise.

You and your Boy

Scout idealism.

You're naive.

That's Eagle

Scout to you, Max.

Officer Freemont, why don't you

go ahead and read him his rights

before he says anything

else incriminating?

You have the right

to remain silent.

I know my rights.

I'm a lawyer.

By all means,

keep talking then.

The judge would love to hear it.

You have a right to an attorney.

If you can't afford one, one

will be appointed to you.

Please.

Don't scoff.

After defending

these felony counts,

you're going to be more

than a few Cleveland short.

Max, is this true?

I got you the property,

just like you wanted.

Not like that.

- Mr. Lloyd.

- What?

You're fired.

Merry Christmas.

Judge Reinhold will

have me out of there

so fast, your head's

going to spin.

Court staff is

off for Christmas.

No bail hearings.

Looks like you'll be spending

your Christmas in Aspen,

after all.

In a jail cell.

Watch your head.

Did he put up a fight?

I'd give anything to

see him get tased.

He came quietly.

Better yet, a Billy club.

Cash me outside.

Darla.

Oh, I know.

But you have to admit,

it'd be entertaining.

Even a man like Mr. Lloyd

deserves his day in court.

Speaking of, Bruce,

we could not have done

this without your cooperation.

I'm going to do everything I can

to keep you out of the system

and remain in Mercedes's

capable hands.

OK.

I know it's late,

but I think this is

a Christmas worth celebrating.

Don't you think?

Amen to that.

Your place then?

Our place.

Well, here we go.

Grandma's famous

Texan eggnog recipe.

Don't worry.

No peppers in this one.

Well, since we're

all here, Bruce,

I have a little

something for you.

Card first.

Are these for real?

Of course they are.

Now the bag.

JUSTIN: Yeah, go on.

Try it on.

Hey, looks great.

Hey, I didn't get

nothing for you guys.

Oh, we weren't

expecting anything.

Bringing Maximilian

Lloyd to justice

was everything we could ask for.

There is something you

could give me, Bruce.

What's that?

I know I was harsh on you when

you first lived on the property.

I'm sorry for that.

Don't worry about it.

Also, I know you're

looking for a job.

I can't pay much, but I got

a vacant rental that I'd

be willing to put you up.

And if you'd be my handyman--

Wow, Bruce, that

sounds amazing.

What do you think?

You'd do that?

I would.

You'd have to earn your

keep though, with just about

every odd job you can think of.

But you're no stranger

to odd jobs, are you?

Nope.

Deal?

Deal.

[phone vibrates]

How'd you get this number?

I'm going to put

you on speakerphone

so my attorney can hear.

Go ahead.

DEREK [ON PHONE]:

This is Derek Samuels,

and I have Ellen

Ellspermann on with me.

ELLEN [ON PHONE]: Hello.

DEREK [ON PHONE]: Justin,

thanks for sharing

what information you could.

We're really shaken up by what

Maximilian Lloyd did to you

and yours.

ELLEN [ON PHONE]:

He was new to us,

and I think he was

trying to impress us.

DEREK [ON PHONE]: Really,

not the way to impress us.

You don't say.

DEREK [ON PHONE]:

Look, we had planned

to build another

hotel on the property

there because he

promised us the moon.

But if it's OK with you, we'd

like to invest in Shady Vista

and really make

that place shine.

ELLEN [ON PHONE]: While keeping

it affordable for your tenants.

You mean you'd--

DEREK [ON PHONE]:

We mean if someone's

going to fight that hard

for her land and her people,

we'd rather be

fighting alongside her.

OK.

Well, I guess we should

meet up and discuss it.

Thank you.

ELLEN [ON PHONE]: Thank you.

DEREK [ON PHONE]: We'll

reach out after the new year.

Merry Christmas.

Merry Christmas.

Merry Christmas!

Bruce, we gotta go.

What for?

Well, we gotta start a list

of everything that needs fixing.

And I mean everything!

I'm on it.

What a happy ending.

Thank you.

I don't know about you, but I

say we make a pretty good team.

Yin and yang?

Bonnie and Clyde.

Luke and Leia.

Um--

Never mind about

that last one.

Yeah.

How about just us?

I'd say that's case closed.

[joyful music]

By the powers vested in me, I

pronounce you husband and wife.

[applause]

You look really happy.

It's been a long time coming.

You know, pastor is

a good friend of mine.

And?

Well, maybe if

I asked, he could

stick around a minute or two.

Whatever for?

You know, just to make sure--

Justin.

--that we don't

wait that long.

Are you asking me--

You're my landlord.

I've been here more

than 11 months.

My lease is about to expire.

So Mercedes, it'll be the

greatest mercy of my life

if you were to marry me.

Yes.

Although--

What?

What's the legalese?

Caveat emptor?

Oh, I've read the fine print,

and it's just fine with me.

[cheers, applause]

[SINGING] When I breathe

the air you breathe

Serendipity

When you laugh along with me

Knowing you since that bus ride

Man, it's been a long time

Only you in my mind

Let's lose track of time tonight

And meet me in the

colors of sundown

Let's pace through the

gardens of this town

It doesn't get better than this

Won't you be my last first kiss?

Last first kiss

Positivity

I know you'll be here for me

And possibility

We both see what we could be

We'll keep sharing stories

And learning to say sorry

We can build a good life

Let's lose track of time tonight

And meet me in the

colors of sundown

Let's pace through the

gardens of this town

It doesn't get better than this

Won't you be my last first kiss?

Last first kiss

Wrap me in your old

high school sweatshirt

And hold me in this

cold autumn weather

If there are stars

that make this wish

That you would be

my last first kiss

Last first kiss

Wrap me in your old

high school sweatshirt

And hold me in this

cold autumn weather

If there are stars

that make this wish

That you would be

my last first kiss

Last first kiss