HORTON LIVING ROOM. TOM AND ALICE ARE PUTTING GIFTS UNDER THE CHRISTMAS TREE.

TOM: But Alice, you say that every year. (HUGGING HER)

ALICE: But darling, every Christmas is special when you have a family as wonderful as ours.

TOM: (FIXING A BOW ON A PACKAGE AND GIVING IT A SHAKE) I can't argue with that. And I'm lucky to have you with me... A few years ago we didn't know if you'd be home for the holidays.

FADE TO FLASHBACK: CHRISTMAS 1990. MICKEY, MAGGIE, SARAH, MELISSA, JENNIFER, AND JULIE SING "ALWAYS" TO ALICE, WHO HAS RETURNED HOME FROM THE HOSPITAL AFTER HER PACEMAKER OPERATION. FADE OUT OF FLASHBACK.

TOM: You mean like the year she accidentally broke Laura's ornament?

ALICE: Yes...

FADE TO FLASHBACK: CHRISTMAS 1987. A DISTRAUGHT JENNIFER ACCIDENTALLY BREAKS LAURA'S ORNAMENT AND FIGHTS WITH BILL. FRANKIE MAKES HER A NEW ORNAMENT AND JENNIFER AND BILL HANG IT ON THE TREE TOGETHER. FADE OUT OF FLASHBACK.

ALICE: When we got our Mickey back...

TOM: When Jack came crashing through the window!

ALICE: I wonder what this Christmas holds in store for us?

HOLD ON ALICE AND TOM HUGGING EACH OTHER AND LOOKING UP AT THE TREE.

CUT TO: JACK AND JENNIFER'S LIVING ROOM. JENNIFER IS BUNDLING UP ABIGAIL IN A WARM COAT AND HAT, WHILE JACK IS PACKING SOME DIAPERS AND BOTTLES INTO A BAG.

JACK PUTS A COUPLE TOYS INTO THE BAG AND ZIPS IT CLOSED.

JENNIFER PUTS MITTENS ON ABIGAIL'S HANDS.

JACK: Must I remind you that the results of the tests you took last Tuesday are ready?

JENNIFER: I know, but is it really necessary to do it now? I'm sure my tests came out fine.

JACK: Yes, I believe it is necessary. I want to know that my wife has gotten a clean bill of health.

JENNIFER PICKS UP ABIGAIL.

JENNIFER OPENS THE FRONT DOOR AND WALKS OUTSIDE, HOLDING ABIGAIL. JACK THROWS ABIGAIL'S BAG OVER HIS SHOULDER.

HOLD ON JACK.

CUT TO: BRADY LIVING ROOM. CAROLINE IS ARRANGING A TRAY OF SUGAR COOKIES WHILE SHAWN PUTS PRESENTS UNDER THE TREE. MAX IS FOLLOWING ALONG BEHIND, READING THE TAGS AND SHAKING THE BOXES. IN PROGRESS.

SHAWN: It's always a pleasure to see Shane. I'm glad the ISA gave him some time off. But Eve... I just can't figure that girl out.

MAX: This one is for Kayla. (SHAKING BOX) Sounds like a sweater. Yuk.

CAROLINE: Eve's had a hard time of things. She's just young and confused.

MAX: This one is heavy! (LOOKING AT THE TAG) It's for Brady. I'll bet it's blocks.

SHAWN: You're probably right. All Eve needs is some love.

CAROLINE: And Shane can give that to her, if she'll only take it.

SHAWN: And we Bradys will do our fair share. Shane is family and that means Eve is too. 'Tis the season of love and understanding, after all.

MAX: (LOOKING AT BOXES) John, Bo, Shawn-Douglas. Hey, aren't any of these boxes for me?

SHAWN: (LAUGHING) We've got all yours hidden away so you don't shake them to death.

CAROLINE: Shawn, I am so glad you feel that way. I hope it extends to Kayla as well...

OUT ON CAROLINE'S QUESTIONING LOOK.

DOUG AND JULIE'S DINING ROOM. JULIE BRINGS OUT A DISH FROM THE KITCHEN TO ADD TO THE OTHERS ALREADY ON THE TABLE. THE TABLE IS DECORATED WITH A BEAUTIFUL FRESH FLOWER AND CHRISTMAS GREENS ARRANGEMENT. THERE IS CHAMPAGNE CHILLING IN A NEARBY ICE-BUCKET. JULIE SETS THE PLATE SHE IS CARRYING, WITH ASSORTED CHEESES AND CRACKERS, ON THE TABLE NEXT TO A PLATE WITH DECORATIVELY ARRANGED FRESH FRUIT. SHE ADJUSTS THE SMALL PLATE OF PATE AND THE BASKET OF BAGUETTE SLICES TO PRESENT A MORE HARMONIOUS WHOLE. AS JULIE ARRANGES THE TABLE, WE HEAR DOUG COME IN THE FRONT DOOR.

DOUG: (APPROACHING) I didn't think you'd be home... (HE TURNS THE CORNER INTO THE ROOM AND STOPS) Well, what have we here?

JULIE: A little lunch a deux.

DOUG: What's the occasion?

JULIE: In part to apologize for the other day. I'm truly sorry I missed what must have been a delicious dinner...

DOUG: No apologies necessary, Fair Lady...

DOUG DOFFS HIS COAT AND TAKES JULIE INTO HIS ARMS. THEY KISS.

JULIE: We were so panicked about the printer and angry about Victor's interference... but you're right. I'll call next time...

DOUG: I'd appreciate it...

JULIE: But you must remember, Doug, I spent years taking care of myself. You don't have to worry about me.

DOUG: I can't help it sometimes. I'll try to adjust. But I'm a little concerned... There's a potential here for the magazine, for the business, to begin to dominate your whole life.

JULIE: Oh, darling, you know that won't happen! You are the single most important thing in my world, and nothing is going to change that.

DOUG: If you say so... But I know it can be hard to balance your personal and professional life...

JULIE: But I have impeccable balance. Here, let me show you....

JULIE MOVES CLOSER TO DOUG AND PUTS BOTH HER ARMS STRAIGHT OUT TO THE SIDES. SHE THEN EXTENDS HER LEG OUT TO THE SIDE, BALANCING ON ONE FOOT. SHE SLOWLY WRAPS HER EXTENDED LEG AND ARMS AROUND DOUG AS SHE GIVES HIM A PASSIONATE KISS.

DOUG: Clearly...

DOUG KISSES JULIES. HOLD ON THEIR KISS.

CUT TO: ALAMAIN LIVING ROOM. THERE IS A HUGE CHRISTMAS TREE SET UP BY THE FIREPLACE, COVERED WITH WHITE AND GOLD ORNAMENTS. THERE ARE BRANCHES OF HOLLY ON THE MANTEL AND THE ENTIRE ROOM IS FILLED WITH WREATHS, BOWS, CANDLES AND MISTLETOE. THERE ARE SEVERAL LARGE, LAVISHLY WRAPPED BOXES UNDER THE TREE. NICHOLAS STANDS IN THE CENTER OF THE ROOM, STARING AT THE TREE. VIVIAN ENTERS. SHE DOES A DOUBLE TAKE AS SHE SEES THE DECORATING.

NICHOLAS: Are you okay, Aunt Viv?

VIVIAN: Yes, my little love. I'm fine. I was simply overwhelmed by the decorations. Please don't worry about me.

NICHOLAS: I'll worry about you till we get out of this place forever!

VIVIAN: Shhh! I think I hear someone coming!

THEY STAND QUIETLY AS LAWRENCE ENTERS. LAWRENCE IS DRESSED IN A GREEN SWEATER AND RED SHIRT. HE SMILES.

NICHOLAS: It's... It's... overwhelming...

NICHOLAS SMILES AT VIVIAN.

LAWRENCE: (TO VIVIAN) I have missed a lot of Christmases with my son, so I wanted to make this one special. (TO NICHOLAS) Nikki, do you like it?

NICHOLAS: It's... pretty. I've never seen a tree that big.

LAWRENCE: Well, it took some doing, but I thought you'd like it. And look at all those presents. They're all for you.

NICHOLAS: (QUIETLY) Thank you.

VIVIAN: There is more to Christmas than gifts, Lawrence.

LAWRENCE: Yes there is, Vivian... like being with your family. Something I've been prevented from doing in the past.

VIVIAN: And it's obvious that I made the right decision.

LAWRENCE: You mean to kidnap my son?

VIVIAN: To keep him away from someone as cruel as you.

NICHOLAS: Stop it! Stop it both of you! It's Christmas! I don't care about presents or Santa Claus or peace on earth! All I want is peace in this house!

HOLD ON VIVIAN AND LAWRENCE AS THEY STARE AT NICHOLAS.

CUT TO: DONOVAN LIVING ROOM/FOYER. EVE IS STANDING BY THE FRENCH WINDOWS, FORLORNLY STARING OUT INTO THE YARD. SHANE WALKS INTO THE ROOM AND STANDS BEHIND EVE, PUTTING HIS ARMS AROUND HER.

EVE: Huh? Oh... hi Dad.

SHANE: It's Christmas Eve, darling. Why do you look so sad?

EVE: The house is so quiet and empty this year.

SHANE: I know.

EVE: It seems like everyone... everyone I love is gone, except you...

SHANE: I'll always try and be here for you, Eve.

EVE: I know. But I miss Andrew and Jeannie... and Gabrielle. I miss having little kids around for Christmas.

SHANE: Why don't we plan on calling Kimberly and the children? And you can call Gabrielle in New York.

EVE: That'd be great. Thanks, Dad.

SHANE: Now then, why don't we start decorating that tree I just dragged into the foyer?

EVE: You got a tree?

SHANE: Of course! What's Christmas without a tree?

EVE THROWS HER ARMS AROUND SHANE.

SHANE: I'm glad I'm home... and that we're together...

THEY HUG.

SHANE SMILES AS EVE RUNS AHEAD OF HIM INTO THE FOYER. OUT ON SHANE'S SMILE.

HORTON LIVING ROOM/FOYER. TOM IS SITTING ON THE COUCH, GAZING AT THE CHRISTMAS TREE. "WHITE CHRISTMAS" SUNG BY BING CROSBY PLAYS ON THE STEREO. A FIRE ROARS IN THE FIREPLACE. ALICE ENTERS THE LIVING ROOM WITH A PUNCH BOWL OF EGGNOG. AS SHE SETS IT ON THE COFFEE TABLE, THE DOOR BELL RINGS.

ALICE: Okay, and I'll go get the cookies.

ALICE WALKS BACK INTO THE KITCHEN. TOM STANDS UP AND WALKS TO THE DOOR. HE OPENS THE DOOR AND FINDS BILL, LADEN WITH PACKAGES.

TOM TAKES SOME OF THE PACKAGES AND LEADS BILL INTO THE LIVING ROOM.

ALICE GREETS THEM AS SHE WALKS INTO THE LIVING ROOM WITH A TRAY OF COOKIES, WHICH SHE SETS ON THE TABLE NEXT TO THE PUNCH BOWL.

TOM AND BILL PUT THE PACKAGES UNDER THE TREE AND BILL GOES TO HUG ALICE.

ALICE POURS A CUP OF EGGNOG FOR BILL AS BILL STANDS AND ADMIRES THE TREE.

ALICE: You said that even as a child. And this year, we'll have another new ornament to put on the tree...

BILL: I know. And I can't believe that so many of us are going to be here tonight... Mickey, Maggie, Julie, Doug, Jennifer, Jack, Abby... (BEAT) I wish... I wish Laura...

ALICE: I'm sorry Laura can't be here with us.

BILL: (SOFTLY) She always loved Christmas...

TOM: That she did.

ALICE: Bill, darling, you know she would be here with you, if she could.

BILL: I know, Mom. Tomorrow, I'm going to Chicago. I know it won't change anything, but I always feel better after I see her.

ALICE: Jennifer mentioned something about going with you and taking Abby...

BILL: She mentioned it to me, but I told her that I didn't think she was ready for the trip, so soon after the accident. Thankfully she agreed.

ALICE: She needs her rest now, but maybe she can go with you the next time.

BILL: I hope so. I think Laura would like to see Abby...

TOM: I know she would, son...

BILL: Mom, speaking of Abby, what did you get for that gorgeous granddaughter of mine?

ALICE: Well, I was at the mall and I saw the perfect little outfit...

HOLD ON ALICE DESCRIBING THE NEW DRESS SHE PICKED OUT FOR ABIGAIL.

CUT TO: VICTOR'S STUDY/FOYER. VICTOR IS AT HIS DESK GOING OVER SOME PAPERS. THERE IS A GENTLE KNOCK AT THE DOOR. VICTOR LOOKS UP.

THE DOOR OPENS AND NICO STEPS INSIDE.

VICTOR: (SURPRISED) Shawn-Douglas... and Bo? By all means, show them in.

VICTOR STANDS AND MOVES OUT FROM BEHIND HIS DESK. NICO STEPS ASIDE AND PULLS THE DOOR OPEN WIDER. SHAWN-DOUGLAS ENTERS, FOLLOWED SLOWLY BY BO.

SHAWN-DOUGLAS RUNS OVER AND GIVES VICTOR A HUG.

VICTOR LEANS OVER AND GIVES SHAWN-DOUGLAS A HUG. HE LOOKS UP AT BO.

BO: (SHIFTING UNCOMFORTABLY) Victor.

SHAWN-D: We brought a present for you!

SHAWN-DOUGLAS PULLS A SMALL BOX OUT OF HIS POCKET. IT IS WRAPPED IN RED PAPER WITH A GREEN BOW. THE PAPER AND BOW ARE CROOKED, AND THE TAPE IS PEELING OFF OF ONE OF THE EDGES. HE HANDS THE GIFT TO VICTOR.

SHAWN-D: Yeah. I didn't do it exactly right, but...

VICTOR: You did an excellent job, Shawn-Douglas. (BEAT) So, do I have to put this under the tree and wait for tomorrow?

SHAWN-D: No, I think you should open it now.

VICTOR: All right, if you say so.

VICTOR TEARS OFF THE WRAPPING AND OPENS THE BOX. INSIDE IS A SMALL HANDMADE TREE ORNAMENT, SHAPED LIKE A SNOWFLAKE AND PAINTED WHITE.

SHAWN-D: Do you like it?

VICTOR: I love it. Let's go put it on the tree.

SHAWN-D: All right!

VICTOR AND SHAWN-DOUGLAS LEAVE THE STUDY AND GO OUT TO THE FOYER, WHERE THE TREE IS. THE TREE IS LARGE AND ELABORATELY DECORATED. BO FOLLOWS.

SHAWN-D: (POINTING TO A BRANCH) Right there!

VICTOR: Good choice.

VICTOR HANGS THE ORNAMENT WHERE SHAWN-DOUGLAS SUGGESTED. VICTOR THEN REACHES UNDERNEATH THE TREE AND PULLS OUT A LARGE BOX.

SHAWN-D: Wow!

VICTOR: You can open it now... (LOOKING AT BO) if it's all right with your father.

SHAWN-D: (TO BO) Papa?

BO: Go ahead, son.

SHAWN-DOUGLAS BEGINS TEARING AWAY THE WRAPPING ON THE GIFT.

BO: I'm fine, thanks.

VICTOR: Spending Christmas at Shawn and Caroline's?

BO: Yeah, Mom and Pop are having everyone over.

BO LOOKS UNDER THE TREE AND NOTICES ONLY A FEW GIFTS.

VICTOR: John and Brady are coming by tomorrow morning, and then I'm flying to Italy tomorrow afternoon, to visit Isabella...

SHAWN-DOUGLAS FINISHES TEARING THE WRAPPING AWAY.

VICTOR: (SMILING) You're very welcome. (TO BO) I'm sorry, Bo, I didn't get anything for you. To be honest, I couldn't think of anything that you would want to receive from me.

BO: Don't worry about it... (BEAT) Actually, there is something.

VICTOR: (SURPRISED) Name it. Anything.

BO: Would you... Would you lay some flowers on Isabella's grave for me?

VICTOR: Of course. (BEAT) She would like that.

BO SEES SHAWN-DOUGLAS OPENING THE BOX AND TAKING OUT THE PARTS TO THE VIDEO GAME.

SHAWN-D: Okay, Papa.

BO: (HESITANT) Victor, I...

VICTOR: Yes?

BO: I just... I wanted to say... Merry Christmas.

VICTOR: Thank you, Bo. Merry Christmas to you, too.

HOLD ON BO.

CUT TO: BRADY LIVING ROOM. CARRIE AND CAROLINE ARE IN THE KITCHEN. CARRIE STIRS SOME MULLED APPLE CIDER THAT SIMMERS ON THE STOVE. CAROLINE PREPARES A HAM TO PUT IN THE OVEN. SHAWN AND MAX ARE WRAPPING PRESENTS.

CAROLINE: Doesn't it? There's nothing like the combination of pine, gingerbread, peppermint and apple cider.

CARRIE: And snow!

CAROLINE: You're excited about going to Colorado tomorrow, aren't you?

CARRIE: Yes! This way I get the best of both worlds. Christmas Eve and part of Christmas Day with everyone here and the rest of Christmas skiing with Dad, Marlena and the twinners.

THERE IS A COMMOTION AT THE DOOR AS KAYLA AND STEPHANIE COME IN, LOADED DOWN WITH GIFTS. SHAWN AND MAX RUN TO TAKE SOME OF THE PACKAGES FROM KAYLA.

MAX: Steffi, come on up to my room. I've got to show you the surprise I'm making.

STEPHANIE: Oh goody! Is it for me?

MAX AND STEPHANIE TAKE OFF AT A RUN AS EVERYONE CHUCKLES. CAROLINE COMES OUT OF THE KITCHEN AND KISSES KAYLA HELLO. SHE GRABS BOTH SHAWN AND KAYLA BY THE HANDS.

KAYLA AND SHAWN LOOK AT EACH OTHER WARILY.

KAYLA: You're right, Ma. We have been at each other's throats. (TO SHAWN) We still have a lot to work out, Pop. But after the holidays. Agreed?

SHAWN: Agreed.

SHAWN STICKS OUT HIS HAND FOR KAYLA TO SHAKE AND THEN PULLS HER INTO A HUG.

SHAWN: And I love you, Kayla, darlin'.

THEY PULL APART.

CAROLINE: All right then, we'll see you in a few hours.

KAYLA: Do you need me to bring anything back for dinner? The stores will be open for a little while longer.

CAROLINE: We should be all right, as long as I can keep Max and Stephanie from devouring all the cookies.

KAYLA: Okay, see you in a bit, then.

KAYLA WAVES AS SHE LEAVES. CAROLINE TURNS AND HUGS SHAWN.

OUT ON SHAWN'S SMILE.

JANET'S OFFICE. JOE, BOB, MORGAN AND JANET SIP A LAST CUP OF VIRGIN EGGNOG AND DISCUSS THEIR HOLIDAY PLANS.

MORGAN: You sound less than thrilled...

JOE: Her dad's okay. But her mother is a real piece of work. She's always on about something, and her house is one of those places... Let's just say I get nervous walking in on her white carpets and it goes downhill from there!

BOB: Good luck, man. I'd keep away from the coffee, you don't want to see what a coffee stain does to white carpet...

JOE LOOKS PANICKED AS THE REST LAUGH.

BOB: I'm going home, hang out with the folks, watch the games with the old man for a while. Sherry'll get back from her family gathering tomorrow afternoon, and we're going to a friend's place for the evening. Should be pretty mellow...

JOE: Sounds much better than my day. Can I join you?

BOB: No way! Morgan, what are you and Candis doing?

MORGAN: We're spending Christmas Eve at the Community Center. Candis has collected a bunch of toys and gifts and we're going to give them out to some of the neighborhood families... You know, the ones who can't afford to do much.

JANET: That's great. Do you have enough?

MORGAN: There's never enough, but we got a pretty good load from some of the local merchants. (TO JANET) Captain, what do you have planned?

JANET: I'm flying out to Louisiana tomorrow morning, early, to be with the family. I cannot wait to taste some of Mom's jambalaya! What this town needs is a decent Cajun place.

BOB: Doesn't Cajun food include Alligator? I'm not sure Salem's ready for Alligator burgers...

JANET: Come on, we don't eat gator... not in burgers, anyway. Now give me a nice, thick gator gumbo...

THE MEN GROAN IN UNISON WHILE JANET GRINS.

ALL LAUGH, BUT THEIR MIRTH IS INTERRUPTED BY A CALL ON BOB'S RADIO. BOB TURNS UP THE VOLUME. WE HEAR JEFFRIES VOICE ON THE RADIO.

BOB: Yes, and the Captain, Morgan and Joe are, too. What's goin' down? Over.

JEFFRIES: We've got a bad one... Three car pile-up on the 312 exit. Serious injuries, possible DUI. Over.

JANET: Jeffries, you hold tight. I'll jump on dispatch and get you backup. I'll be out there, too. Over.

JEFFRIES: Much appreciated, Captain. Jeffries out.

THE RADIO GOES SILENT.

BOB: Yeah, I'll give my folks a buzz...

JANET: Now, you three just go ahead. I'll cover this, I didn't have plans for tonight, so it's no use spoiling your Christmas Eve.

JOE: Thanks, Captain!

BOB: Yeah, much appreciated.

MORGAN: Page me if you need me, Captain.

JANET: I'll call dispatch and find out what the hold up is, then head out there. You go on.

JANET BUZZES DISPATCH. HOLD ON JANET'S CONCERN.

CUT TO: ALAMAIN LIVING ROOM. NICHOLAS IS SITTING ON THE FLOOR, SADLY STARING AT THE CHRISTMAS TREE. LAWRENCE WALKS INTO THE ROOM AND SITS ON THE COUCH BEHIND NICHOLAS.

NICHOLAS TURNS TOWARDS LAWRENCE AND FORCES A SMILE.

LAWRENCE: Son, I'm sorry if my argument with Aunt Vivian upset you.

NICHOLAS: Oh, that's okay. I'm getting used to it.

LAWRENCE: Even so, I'm going to make it up to you.

LAWRENCE POINTS TO THE MANY GIFTS UNDER THE TREE.

NICHOLAS: (HESITANT) Oh, that's okay, really.

LAWRENCE: I insist. Unless, of course, you're still angry with me.

NICHOLAS: (SPEAKING QUICKLY) No, that's not it. I'm just not used to opening gifts before Christmas.

NICHOLAS STANDS UP AND WALKS OVER TO THE TREE. HE CHOOSES A SMALL RECTANGLE PACKAGE. HE KNEELS DOWN NEAR THE TREE AND OPENS THE PACKAGE. IT IS A WOODEN MUSIC BOX.

NICHOLAS: Yes, it's very nice. Thank you.

LAWRENCE: You know Nikki, my father... your grandfather, gave me this very music box when I was just about your age. And now, I want you to have it.

LAWRENCE STANDS AND WALKS OVER TO NICHOLAS. LAWRENCE OPENS THE MUSIC BOX. IT PLAYS BACH'S MINUET IN G MAJOR.

NICHOLAS LOOKS AT LAWRENCE. HOLD ON THE MUSIC BOX.

CUT TO: VIVIAN'S BEDROOM. VIVIAN AND IVAN TALK IN HUSHED TONES.

IVAN: Perhaps he's waiting for the right time to contact us.

VIVIAN STARTS PACING BACK AND FORTH.

IVAN: What is, Madame?

VIVIAN STOPS PACING AND HALF SMILES.

IVAN: We can hope, Madame.

VIVIAN: (NEAR TEARS) How did this happen? This isn't what I wanted for Nikki... for any of us. This isn't the Christmas I expected...

IVAN REACHES OUT AS IF TO COMFORT VIVIAN, BUT INSTEAD REACHES INTO HIS POCKET AND TAKES OUT A SMALL GIFT. HE HANDS IT TO VIVIAN.

IVAN: What if I told you it was magic?

VIVIAN: Tonight, I might believe you...

IVAN: Merry Christmas, Madame.

IVAN BENDS DOWN AND LIGHTLY KISSES VIVIAN ON HER LIPS. HE PULLS BACK, TURNS AND WALKS OUT OF THE ROOM. HOLD ON VIVIAN, CLUTCHING IVAN'S GIFT.

CUT TO: HORTON LIVING ROOM/FOYER. TOM AND BILL ARE IN THE LIVING ROOM HELPING THEMSELVES TO EGGNOG AND COOKIES. THE DOORBELL RINGS AND ALICE GOES TO ANSWER IT. JULIE AND DOUG, BEARING MANY GIFTS, ARE AT THE DOOR.

ALICE HUGS JULIE, ALMOST KNOCKING ALL THE PRESENTS OUT OF DOUG'S ARMS.

DOUG: Ho! Ho! Ho! I thought I'd give St. Nick some time off this year!

JULIE: Don't exaggerate, Doug.

DOUG: I'm not. Look for every store in Salem to send you a Thank-you bouquet!

JULIE: Don't listen to him, Grandma. I believe that giving is more blessed than receiving.

ALICE: Julie, you are generous to a fault... but never mind that... come in, come in!

DOUG: I thought you'd never ask, Alice.

DOUG STRUGGLES TO GET THE PACKAGES IN THE LIVING ROOM AND SAFELY UNDER THE TREE. BILL GIVES HIM A HAND. JULIE AND ALICE FOLLOW.

DOUG: Ask Julie...

JULIE: Oh, Uncle Bill... Come here and give your favorite niece a kiss.

BILL: With pleasure.

JULIE AND BILL HUG AND KISS. DOUG AND BILL SHAKE HANDS.

JULIE: How could I???

JULIE KISSES TOM.

BILL: Just reminiscing about years gone by... and those who can't be with us.

JULIE: (LOOKING AT BILL) Laura... (BEAT) Oh, Uncle Bill... How is she?

BILL: I'm going to visit her tomorrow. I'll give you a full report when I get back.

JULIE: Give her our love.

BILL: As always...

DOUG: Will Maggie and Mickey be here soon?

ALICE: Yes, they just phoned and are on their way. Maggie was excited. Melissa and Sarah called.

TOM: They said they're doing great in Nashville.

JULIE: I'm glad. (BEAT) Uncle Bill, do you remember the Christmas when Maggie nearly lost Sarah?

FADE TO FLASHBACK: CHRISTMAS 1987. BILL HAS COME HOME AND PERFORMED SURGERY ON SARAH AFTER HER ACCIDENT (EVE HIT HER WITH A CAR). SARAH GIVES BILL A SPECIAL ORNAMENT FOR THE TREE FOR SAVING HER LIFE. MICKEY HELPED PICK IT OUT AS A PARTIAL PEACE OFFERING.

JULIE: You gave Maggie back her little girl.

BILL: I'm just glad I was able to help. (BEAT) Julie, have you heard from Steven or David or Scotty?

JULIE: Yes, they all called and wished us a happy holidays. They can't get away this year. But how I would love to have my boys home with me...

JULIE TURNS AND SEES DOUG LOOKING AT THE BOX OF HORTON ORNAMENTS. HIS HANDS REST ON HOPE AND ADDIE'S ORNAMENTS. HIS EYES WELL WITH TEARS. JULIE GOES TO HIM AND PUTS HER ARMS AROUND HIM.

FADE TO FLASHBACK. HOPE, AS A CHILD, SINGS "SILENT NIGHT" UNDER THE CHRISTMAS TREE. FADE OUT OF FLASHBACK. OUT ON DOUG AND JULIE, HOPE'S ORNAMENT IN DOUG'S HAND.

SMALL NURSES' STATION/LOUNGE. THE ELEVATOR DOORS OPEN, AND MARCUS AND KAYLA STEP OUT. KAYLA IS BEAMING.

KAYLA: What can I say? Being an elf does that to me.

MARCUS: (PUTTING HIS ARM AROUND HER) Well, if you're happy, I'm happy!

KAYLA: Good, 'cause we need a happy Santa to give gifts to the Riverfront kids.

MARCUS: Fear not, "Patchy Claus" will be at his jolly best for the kids.

JACK, CARRYING ABIGAIL, AND JENNIFER ENTER.

JACK AND JENNIFER WALK OVER.

JACK: Yes, Feliz Navidad, and all that.

MARCUS: Hmmm... That sounds like a "bah-humbug" greeting. Do we have a Scrooge here? (LEANING CLOSE TO ABIGAIL) What do you think, Abby? Is your daddy a Scrooge?

ABIGAIL GIGGLES.

JENNIFER: Yeah, so festive that he dragged us here on Christmas Eve!

KAYLA: What are you two doing here, anyway?

JACK: Jennifer's latest test results came in...

JENNIFER: (INTERRUPTING) And Jack insisted that we rush right down and see what they said.

JACK: I'm just looking out for you...

MARCUS: Well, what's the verdict?

JENNIFER: Just what I suspected. I'm perfectly fine.

KAYLA: That's great news!

JACK: We're still going to be careful...

JENNIFER: (ROLLING HER EYES) Yes, dear. (TO KAYLA AND MARCUS) So, what are you two doing here?

KAYLA: We have a date... down at the Riverfront.

JACK: The Riverfront?

MARCUS: Yeah. Steve started a tradition a while ago. He would dress up as Santa Claus, and go down to the Riverfront and give out donated gifts to the kids.

KAYLA: And Marcus and I are continuing the tradition.

JENNIFER: I thinks that's great.

JACK: I think Steve would approve...

KAYLA: Yeah, it's a way we can keep Steve's spirit alive...

WE HEAR A VOICE OVER THE INTERCOM.

MARCUS: I'd better see what that's about.

MARCUS GOES TO THE NURSES' STATION. HE PICKS UP THE PHONE AND DIALS, ONE-WAY.

MARCUS HANGS UP THE PHONE AND WALKS BACK TO KAYLA, JACK, ABIGAIL AND JENNIFER.

KAYLA: What is it?

MARCUS: There's been a major car accident...

BOTH JACK AND JENNIFER SHUDDER.

KAYLA: It's all right, go... They need you.

MARCUS: (TAKING KAYLA'S HAND AND SQUEEZING IT) Thanks. I'm really sorry...

MARCUS EXITS HASTILY.

KAYLA: If anyone can help them, Marcus can.

JACK: But what about the children?

KAYLA: (SADLY) I don't know... I guess I'll go by myself.

JENNIFER: I'm sorry, Kayla.

KAYLA: It's just that the kids always look forward to seeing Santa...

JACK: (DISTANTLY) Yes... Yes, they do...

JENNIFER: Jack, what is it?

JACK: Kayla's right. The kids look forward to seeing Santa... They need him... He has to be there.

KAYLA: I really don't have a choice. I can't get anyone to fill in on such short notice...

JACK: Well, you never know. It is Christmas... What? (HE TURNS TO ABIGAIL) You have an idea? (HE PUTS HIS EAR NEXT TO ABIGAIL'S MOUTH) Uh-huh... Uh-huh... You think so? (BEAT) Okay, I'll ask...

JENNIFER: (CURIOUS) Jack, what...?

JACK: Kayla, my daughter has an idea. Since Marcus is unavailable to be Santa, she thinks that her father would be an adequate substitute.

JENNIFER SMILES BRIGHTLY.

JACK: If my wife doesn't mind...

JENNIFER: Mind? I think it's a great idea. Abby's smart... just like her mommy.

KAYLA CHUCKLES.

JENNIFER: I'm just kidding. Here, give her to me.

JACK HANDS ABIGAIL TO JENNIFER.

JENNIFER: I think you should do this. It's... fitting.

JACK: All right. You go ahead to your grandparents' house, and I'll meet you there.

JENNIFER: Okay. Jack?

JACK: Yes?

JENNIFER STEPS UP AND GIVES HIM A KISS.

JACK SMILES.

KAYLA: Merry Christmas, Jennifer! Merry Christmas, Abby!

JENNIFER EXITS WITH ABIGAIL.

JACK: You're very welcome. I'm... I'm happy to do it. For the kids, for you... for Steve.

HOLD ON JACK.

CUT TO: BRADY LIVING ROOM. CARRIE AND CAROLINE ARE BUSY PUTTING GIFTS UNDER THE TREE, WHEN BO ENTERS, WITH SHAWN-DOUGLAS. BOTH ARE LADEN WITH GIFTS.

SHAWN-D: Merry Christmas!

CAROLINE: Well, Merry Christmas to you both! Here, let me help you...

CAROLINE AND CARRIE HELP BO AND SHAWN-DOUGLAS PUT THE GIFTS DOWN UNDER THE TREE. HUGS ARE EXCHANGED.

SHAWN-D: (LOOKS WORRIEDLY AT BO) Papa, is it okay?

BO: Of course, son. I'll be right out here, don't worry. You go ahead. Remember to play nice. Okay?

SHAWN-D: Okay, Papa...

WITH ONE LAST ANXIOUS GLANCE AT BO, SHAWN-DOUGLAS HEADS OF TO MAX'S ROOM. CAROLINE LOOKS WORRIEDLY AT BO.

BO: Not exactly, but he's been cranky today. Neither of us got much sleep last night.

CARRIE: You do look tired, Uncle Bo...

BO: It's those nightmares. They're getting more frequent, practically every night. They're also getting more vivid, it's like he's remembering more and more with each one.

CAROLINE: What does Dr. Ector say?

BO: That it could be dangerous to push it. (BEAT) Hey, could we maybe not talk about this? It's nearly all I think about and tonight, I'd like to have a happy evening with the family.

CAROLINE: Of course, dear.

BO: Thanks, Ma. And you, young lady (TO CARRIE) How are you doing?

CARRIE: Nervous about the hearings, but okay.

BO: I wanted to apologize to you, Carrie. I haven't been around for you as much as I should, and I'm sorry about that.

CARRIE: Oh, Uncle Bo, that's okay. I know you've had a lot going on lately. Besides, I have a whole crew of people looking out for me.

CAROLINE: Yes, Jonah has become Carrie's shadow.

CARRIE: He's a good friend. And everyone at the apartment has been terrific. And there are even cops watching out for me.

BO: Yeah, I know. But still, it isn't like family. I know you have plenty of folks keeping an eye on you... and from now on, I promise to be one of them.

BO PUTS HIS ARM AROUND CARRIE WHO SMILES UP AT HIM. HOLD ON THEIR FOND LOOK.

CUT TO: ALAMAIN DINING ROOM. THE TABLE IS ELEGANTLY SET, WITH FORMAL PLACE SETTINGS, A LONG FLORAL ARRANGEMENT, CANDLES, AND A NEAR FEAST. IVAN IS SERVING DINNER FROM VARIOUS DISHES ON THE TABLE AND SIDEBOARD. LAWRENCE, VIVIAN AND NICHOLAS SIT AT THE TABLE. IN PROGRESS.

VIVIAN: Don't you think he's a bit young to begin developing his palate?

LAWRENCE: My father felt a boy of ten was mature enough and I agree. Pour the Merlot, Ivan.

WITH AN APOLOGETIC LOOK AT VIVIAN, IVAN POURS NICHOLAS A SCANT GLASS OF WINE.

LAWRENCE: Of course it's all right, son. Now, a toast. To family, traditions and loyalty. Without loyalty, we have nothing.

VIVIAN WINCES AT HIS LAST WORDS, BUT DUTIFULLY RAISES HER GLASS TO CLINK WITH NICHOLAS' AND LAWRENCE'S. THEY DRINK.

NICHOLAS: (GRIMACING SLIGHTLY) It's... good...

LAWRENCE: This is wonderful. It reminds me of that last Christmas the Alamains spent together at the family estate. Do you remember that, Vivian?

VIVIAN: I remember your father got incredibly drunk and insisted on exploring my marital history in front of all the guests. Not my most treasured holiday memory...

LAWRENCE: Father was not drunk, he was simply enjoying himself. Something you should endeavor to do tonight, or at least give that impression...

NICHOLAS NOTICES THE THREATENING LOOK THAT LAWRENCE SHOOTS VIVIAN AND ATTEMPTS DISTRACTION.

VIVIAN: Yes, darling, it is, isn't it? Cook did a wonderful job.

LAWRENCE: At home we always ate fresh game that Father and I shot for Christmas dinner...

VIVIAN: Yes, the servants would release tame deer, turkey and boar in the woods and the "mighty huntsmen" would trek out and slaughter them...

LAWRENCE: (WARNINGLY) Enough, Vivian!

NICHOLAS IS GETTING INCREASINGLY UNCOMFORTABLE AND LOOKS FOR FURTHER DISTRACTIONS. SPYING IVAN STANDING BY THE SIDEBOARD, NICHOLAS SMILES.

LAWRENCE: Ivan?

NICHOLAS: Yes, isn't sharing what the Christmas spirit is all about?

NICHOLAS RISES, AND PULLS OUT THE CHAIR NEXT TO VIVIAN.

VIVIAN: Yes, Ivan, do. (SHE GLARES AT LAWRENCE) Lawrence, wasn't it sweet of Nikki to ask Ivan to join us?

LAWRENCE: (TRAPPED) Yes, Vivian, Nicholas is a generous child. (TO IVAN) Ivan, do join us...

IVAN: Thank you, Monsieur.

IVAN GETS A PLATE FROM THE SIDEBOARD, PUTS SOME FOOD ON IT AND GINGERLY SITS NEXT TO VIVIAN.

NICHOLAS: Merry Christmas to you, Ivan.

NICHOLAS RAISES HIS WINE GLASS IN A TOAST. IVAN AND VIVIAN JOIN HIM. LAWRENCE SCOWLS AT VIVIAN AND IVAN. OUT ON LAWRENCE'S ANGER.

SMALL NURSES' STATION/LOUNGE. JACK WALKS OUT OF THE ELEVATOR, CARRYING A LARGE RED BAG. HE IS DRESSED IN A SANTA SUIT, EXCEPT FOR THE HAT AND BEARD. HE WALKS UP TO KAYLA, WHO IS DRESSED IN AN ELF OUTFIT. SHE CARRIES A LARGE GREEN BAG.

JACK: (GLUM) Ho-ho-ho.

KAYLA: Sounds like you need a little practice with those "Ho-ho's" of yours.

KAYLA PULLS LIGHTLY ON JACK'S SLEEVE.

JACK: Except for feeling ridiculous in this red suit, I'd say the fit is reasonably comfortable. (SERIOUS) (HOLDING UP ONE BLACK-BOOTED FOOT) But I do think these shoes might be a little big for me.

KAYLA: Oh, the shoes look like they fit fine...

KAYLA STOPS WHEN SHE NOTICES JACK'S EARNEST EXPRESSION.

JACK: Thank you... (DEEP BREATH) I hope so.

KAYLA: Do you have your hat and beard?

JACK: (LIFTING THE BAG) It's all in here.

KAYLA REACHES INSIDE HER BAG AND PULLS OUT A BLACK EYE PATCH.

KAYLA HANDS THE PATCH TO JACK.

KAYLA PUTS HER HAND LIGHTLY OVER JACK'S.

KAYLA HEADS TOWARDS THE ELEVATOR. JACK WATCHES HER, THEN GRIPS THE EYE PATCH FIRMLY IN HIS HAND AND FOLLOWS KAYLA INTO THE ELEVATOR. AS THE DOORS CLOSE, JACK BELLOWS A HEARTY "HO-HO-HO!". HOLD ON THE NOW CLOSED ELEVATOR.

CUT TO: BRADY LIVING ROOM/FRONT PORCH. JOHN AND BRADY SIT ON THE COUCH NEXT TO BO. SHAWN SITS IN HIS EASY CHAIR. THE PILE OF GIFTS UNDER THE CHRISTMAS TREE IS NOW CONSIDERABLY LARGER. IN PROGRESS.

JOHN: (PUTTING HIS HAND TO HIS FOREHEAD IN DISMAY) Oh, no... not again.

SHAWN: Yes, yes, I think so. What with all these gifts you're bringin', we should start callin' you Kris Kringle!

BO: (GRINNING) Yeah... That load under the tree looks like a military stockpile or something. I think we need a bigger tree...

JOHN: Okay, okay, maybe I went a little bit overboard. But believe me, it's my pleasure. I feel like I'm giving back to the family who took me in and gave me so much. (BEAT) Even when we discovered I'm not really a Brady, you guys were still there for me. I'll never forget that.

SHAWN: You are a Brady in our eyes, son.

BO: (PLAYFULLY SLUGGING JOHN IN THE ARM) Yeah, bro, you're stuck with us.

JOHN: (TO BRADY) Uh-oh, slugger... What have we gotten ourselves into?

BRADY LOOKS UP AT JOHN BUT DOESN'T MAKE A SOUND. JOHN LOOKS AT SHAWN AND BO AND LAUGHS. CARRIE ENTERS FROM THE KITCHEN.

SHAWN: Oh, boy! Is your grandma bringin' it out?

CARRIE: Grandma said she waits on people all day at the Pub. Tonight, it's self-service.

BO: (STANDING) Well, I guess we better go serve ourselves!

SHAWN AND JOHN, CARRYING BRADY, GET UP AND FOLLOW BO TO THE KITCHEN. THE DOORBELL RINGS.

CARRIE GOES TO THE DOOR AND OPENS IT. JONAH STANDS THERE HOLDING A PACKAGE.

CARRIE: Merry Christmas, Jonah! Come in!

JONAH: (STEPPING INSIDE AND CLOSING THE DOOR BEHIND HIM) Thanks.

HE HANDS THE PACKAGE TO CARRIE.

CARRIE: (TAKING THE PACKAGE) Oh, thank you. I've got something for you, too...

CARRIE GOES TO THE TREE AND SETS HER GIFT DOWN. SHE LOOKS AROUND UNTIL SHE SEES JONAH'S GIFT. SHE PICKS IT UP AND HANDS IT TO HIM.

JONAH TAKES THE GIFT IN ONE HAND AND THEN HUGS CARRIE.

CARRIE: Would you like some cider? Grandma and I just finished a batch...

JONAH: I'd love to, but I really can't stay. Abe and Lexie are waiting for me. We're spending Christmas at Lexie's parents' house.

THEY MOVE TOWARD THE DOOR.

JONAH: Yeah, I remember. I hope you have a great trip... And make sure to wish all the Bradys a Merry Christmas from the Carvers. Abe and Lexie send their best.

CARRIE: Thanks, I'll do that. And you tell them the same from the Bradys, okay?

JONAH: You bet.

JONAH PUTS HIS HAND ON THE DOORKNOB.

JONAH: What?

CARRIE: There's one more thing...

CARRIE LOOKS UP TOWARD THE CEILING. JONAH LOOKS UP, FOLLOWING HER GAZE. WE SEE A SPRIG OF MISTLETOE HANGING FROM THE CEILING ABOVE JONAH'S HEAD. JONAH SLOWLY LOWERS HIS HEAD TO LOOK AT CARRIE. TO HIS SURPRISE, SHE QUICKLY LEANS OVER AND KISSES HIM, BRIEFLY BUT FIRMLY.

JONAH: (DUMBFOUNDED) Um... Um... Merry Christmas, Carrie. (BEAT) I'd... better go.

JONAH OPENS THE DOOR AND STEPS OUTSIDE.

CARRIE: 'Bye.

JONAH EXITS AND CLOSES THE DOOR BEHIND HIM. CARRIE PAUSES FOR A MOMENT, THEN TURNS AND GOES INTO THE KITCHEN. GO TO: BRADY FRONT PORCH. JONAH HAS STOPPED AND TURNED, STARING AT THE DOOR. HE LETS OUT A SIGH AND SMILES. HOLD ON JONAH'S SMILE.

CUT TO: SMALL NURSES' STATION/LOUNGE. JANET IS STANDING AT THE NURSES STATION TAKING NOTES FROM ONE OF THE NURSES WHEN SHE SEES MARCUS COME OUT OF SURGERY. HE IS STILL IN BLOODY SCRUBS AND LOOKS EXHAUSTED. SHE WAVES AND WALKS OVER TO HIM.

MARCUS: Huh? Oh. Hi, Janet.

JANET: You look like you've been through the wringer.

MARCUS: (RUBBING HIS EYES) Yeah. I have.

JANET: Bad?

MARCUS: Real bad. I did the best I could, but between the torn cartilage, torn muscles, broken bones and burns... the next few days will be critical. And if he makes it, he's got a long recovery ahead of him.

JANET: It sounds like he's lucky to be alive.

MARCUS: Yeah, he is. Did you know he has a wife and two small children? I just spoke to his wife. She's... Can you imagine the hell they are going through?

JANET: I hate to even think about it. Spending Christmas Eve in the hospital waiting to hear if your husband or father will live or die. Not exactly my idea of a merry Christmas.

MARCUS: This isn't shaping up to be a merry Christmas for anyone...

JANET: Do you or did you... have plans?

MARCUS: Yes. Well, no. Well, sort of.

JANET: This sounds interesting.

MARCUS: I was supposed to celebrate with Kayla's family. But this surgery messed up our plans.

JANET: You can still go.

MARCUS: No. Not in the mood I'm in. I'd... I'd mess up things for everyone. Kayla's dad and I are having problems right now. I think it's best if I stay away.

JANET: Poor Marcus... You're about as cheerful as... as... Eeyore.

MARCUS: I'm not that bad!

JANET: No, you're worse.

MARCUS: What can I say? Get me a nail. But after that surgery, knowing about his family, knowing it'll be years of operations before he looks normal again... It knocks the holiday spirit out of you.

JANET: You sound like you could use some serious cheering up.

MARCUS: What I need is some serious whiskey.

JANET: Why don't you come with me? I'm going down to the Community Center for a Christmas party with some of the Riverfront families.

MARCUS: I don't think so.

JANET: You shouldn't spend Christmas Eve locked in a dark apartment. C'mon, for a little while. And if you still feel bad, I'll take you home. Promise.

MARCUS: I don't know.

JANET: Would you come on? The people know you, they'll be happy to see you, and you know we can use all the help we can get.

MARCUS: All right. But just for a little while, okay?

JANET: Okay. For a little while.

MARCUS: Wait here while I change out of my scrubs?

JANET: Okay.

MARCUS WALKS DOWN THE HALL AS JANET WATCHES HIM WITH CONCERN. OUT ON JANET.

HORTON LIVING ROOM. TOM AND ALICE SIT BY THE FIRE. JULIE AND MAGGIE ARE STANDING NEAR THE TABLE, SIPPING EGGNOG. DOUG IS HANGING SOME MISTLETOE OVER THE DOORWAY. MICKEY AND BILL SIT ON THE SOFA. IN PROGRESS.

BILL: I tell you, it was Michael Caine. Abby loved him. And the man is so talented, you couldn't tell he was acting with a piece of green felt.

MAGGIE: Enough! Do you two ever agree about anything?

MICKEY: Mom's donuts...

BILL: And Dad's eggnog...

MICKEY: And Mom's turkey...

BILL: And your apple pies...

ALICE: (LAUGHING) I knew it... Their stomachs agree...

MAGGIE: (LOOKING AT DOUG HANGING THE MISTLETOE) Now there's the man for me... Thinking about a little romance...

JULIE WALKS OVER TO DOUG, WHO IS STANDING UNDER THE MISTLETOE AND GIVES HIM A KISS.

MAGGIE: (TEASING) Too bad...

MICKEY: Hey! What's that supposed to mean?

THE DOOR BELL RINGS. ALICE GETS UP TO ANSWER IT.

MICKEY: Egads. Don't tell me it's that Frenchman come here to flirt with my wife?

DOUG: No, Robert decided to fly to Paris to spend Christmas with his sister Suzanne and C.J.

JENNIFER, CARRYING ABIGAIL, ENTERS, FOLLOWED BY ALICE.

ALL: Merry Christmas, Jennifer!

BILL: (LOOKING AROUND) Jennifer, where's the rest of the crew?

JENNIFER: The crew?

BILL: Rosie?

JENNIFER: Rosie went to visit her sister.

BILL: How about Jo?

ALICE: Jo sent her regrets, but she's spending the holidays skiing with a friend...

JENNIFER WINKS AT ALICE.

JENNIFER: No, not exactly... He's helping Kayla hand out presents to the Riverfront children.

MICKEY: Jack?

JENNIFER: Yes, Jack. And he's doing it dressed at Santa Claus.

MICKEY: Jack? Jack Deveraux?

JULIE: Uncle Mickey, don't seem so surprised. You know Jack's a big marshmallow at heart.

JENNIFER: Julie! Don't let Jack hear you say that. You'll destroy his image.

JULIE: His secret's safe with me.

AT THE MOMENT, ABIGAIL LOOKS AROUND THE ROOM.

JULIE: Another stout defender... Jack should be honored.

BILL: I know I would be. Jennifer, can I hold my granddaughter? It seems I haven't seen her in weeks.

JENNIFER: Dad, it's been two days...

BILL: Two days too many...

BILL TAKES ABIGAIL FROM JENNIFER.

MICKEY: She must take after her great-uncle!

MAGGIE: Oh no... not again.

JULIE: Doug, darling, maybe you could offer a diversion?

DOUG: My pleasure, fair lady.

DOUG WALKS OVER TO BILL AND ABIGAIL.

JULIE LOOKS AT DOUG AND RAISES AN EYEBROW. DOUG STOPS SINGING.

BILL: Julie, look what you've started.

MICKEY: (HEADING FOR THE PUNCH BOWL) When he gets to the lords a leaping, let me know...

EVERYONE LAUGHS. HOLD ON DOUG SINGING "THE TWELVE DAYS OF CHRISTMAS" TO ABIGAIL.

CUT TO: SHANE'S STUDY. SHANE IS TALKING TO KIMBERLY, TWO-WAY. IN PROGRESS.

KIMBERLY: Wonderful. He's just wrapped production on a new film and is really pleased with it.

SHANE: And what about you, Kim? Are you happy?

KIMBERLY: Oh, Shane, yes. Very. I can't tell you what it means to have Andrew and Jeannie here for Christmas.

SHANE: I'm glad.

KIMBERLY: And speaking of Andrew, our eldest has just walked in. (TO ANDREW) I've got your Dad on the phone, honey. Come and say hello.

ANDREW: Dad! Hi! Merry Christmas!

SHANE: (GRINNING EAR TO EAR) Andrew! How are you, sport? Are you having fun in Los Angeles?

ANDREW: Yes, lots. But it's kind of weird not to have snow for Christmas.

EVE ENTERS THE ROOM, CARRYING TWO CUPS OF EGGNOG. SHE TURNS TO LEAVE WHEN SHE SEES THAT SHANE IS ON THE PHONE, BUT HE WAVES HER IN.

EVE: Andrew! Merry Christmas!

ANDREW: Hi Eve! I haven't talked to you in ages. Jeannie and I got the package you sent, but Mom won't let us open it until tomorrow. I miss you!

EVE: I miss you, too. But I'll see you soon, don't worry. And say hello to Father Christmas if you see him, okay?

EVE HANDS THE PHONE BACK TO SHANE, A WIDE SMILE ON HER FACE.

ANDREW: I love you too, Dad. Here's Mom again...

KIMBERLY: Shane? I'm glad you called. I'll call Ma and Pop later but give all the Bradys a kiss from us.

SHANE: I will, we'll be seeing them tomorrow. Merry Christmas!

SHANE HANGS UP THE PHONE AND TURNS TO EVE.

EVE: I'm glad you called them. Andrew sounds like he grew a foot. I can't wait to see him.

SHANE: I didn't realize you'd sent them Christmas gifts. That was sweet of you.

EVE: It's no big deal, just something small. (BEAT) I'm not real good with kids. Most of the time they seem like aliens to me. But Andrew is different. I really love that little guy. I don't know Jeannie, but I'd like to. (BEAT) I guess it's different when it's your own family, huh?

SHANE GETS UP AND ENFOLDS EVE IN A TIGHT HUG.

EVE: (TEARY) Merry Christmas, Dad.

HOLD ON THEIR EMBRACE.

CUT TO: PIER. JACK, IN FULL "PATCHY CLAUS" COSTUME, IS SEATED ON A CRATE WITH HIS BAG OF GIFTS AT HIS SIDE. KAYLA IS NEXT TO HIM, PLAYING THE PART OF THE ELF. CHILDREN OF VARIOUS AGES HAVE GATHERED AROUND THEM. SOME OF THEM HAVE ALREADY RECEIVED AND OPENED GIFTS. IN PROGRESS.

SEVERAL HANDS ARE RAISED, ACCOMPANIED BY CRIES OF "ME! ME!" JACK POINTS TO CALVIN, A TEN-YEAR-OLD BOY.

CALVIN STANDS AND COMES UP TO JACK.

CALVIN: Calvin.

JACK: (PATTING HIS KNEE) Have a seat, Calvin, and tell me what you want for Christmas.

CALVIN SITS ON JACK'S KNEE.

JACK: I see... Well, Calvin, let's see what we can do about that. (TO KAYLA) Ah, Miss Elf, Calvin here wants a baseball glove.

KAYLA: I'll take a look...

KAYLA REACHES INTO THE BAG AND SHUFFLES THE GIFTS AROUND. WHILE JACK AND CALVIN WAIT, A YOUNG GIRL NAMED BETH CALLS OUT.

JACK: Um, sure... Beth, right?

BETH: Uh-huh. I was wondering... Where are your reindeer?

JACK: Ah... Yes, my reindeer. Um...

JACK LOOKS AT KAYLA FOR HELP.

JACK: Ah, yes! Of course! Refueling!

BETH: Huh?

JACK: You see, flying all over the world is very hard work. My reindeer get very hungry, so they have to eat a whole lot. That's where they are now... eating!

KAYLA PULLS A PACKAGE OUT OF THE BAG AND HANDS IT TO JACK. JACK HANDS THE PACKAGE TO CALVIN.

CALVIN: Thanks!

CALVIN GETS DOWN AND SITS DOWN AMONG THE OTHER CHILDREN. HE BEGINS TEARING OFF THE WRAPPING ON HIS GIFT.

JACK: (HESITANTLY) Okay, Beth. Go ahead.

BETH: What is Mrs. Claus doing now?

JACK: Hmmm... Mrs. Claus. Well, she's... She's...

JACK AGAIN LOOKS TO KAYLA.

JACK: Yes, she certainly is. Everyone's still very busy at the North Pole. (LOOKING AROUND THE GROUP) Now, who still needs something...

THE HANDS AND CRIES GO UP AGAIN. JACK SPIES ONE LITTLE GIRL, ABOUT SIX OR SEVEN YEARS OLD, WHO DOES NOT HAVE A GIFT, BUT IS APPARENTLY TOO SHY TO SAY ANYTHING. HE BECKONS TO HER.

STACI: (STANDING UP) Staci.

JACK: Staci, that's a very pretty name. Come sit on Santa's lap, and tell me what you want for Christmas.

STACI SLOWLY WALKS OVER TO JACK. HE LIFTS HER UP AND SETS HER ON HIS KNEE.

STACI: (SOFTLY) I've always wanted a kitty.

JACK: A kitty, hmmm? Miss Elf, can you find a kitty for Staci?

KAYLA: I think so...

KAYLA BEGINS RUMMAGING THROUGH THE BAG.

JACK: (SURPRISED) Why do I...? (BEAT) Why do I have this patch on my eye? That's a very good question, Staci. A very good question...

JACK GIVES KAYLA A PLEADING LOOK. KAYLA LOOKS BACK HELPLESSLY AND SHRUGS.

STACI: Why is it special?

JACK: Ah... it's special because... it's the eye I use to watch over all the little boys and girls of the world. I use this eye to make sure that you're being nice.

STACI: So why do you cover it up?

JACK: Well, I cover it up because it has to rest. Watching over all the children is hard, and my special eye gets tired. I wear this patch so my eye can rest.

STACI: Oh. Okay.

KAYLA PULLS A PACKAGE FROM THE BAG. JACK TAKES IT AND HANDS IT TO STACI.

STACI: (HOLDING UP THE PACKAGE) Will you help me?

JACK: Sure, I will.

JACK HELPS STACI TEAR THE RIBBONS AND PAPER OFF OF THE GIFT. STACI OPENS THE BOX AND PULLS OUT A STUFFED TIGER DOLL. STACI BEAMS.

JACK: (TOUCHED) Why, thank you, Staci. (BEAT) I love you, too.

STACI THROWS HER ARMS AROUND JACK, WHO GIVES HER A HUG. JACK AND KAYLA EXCHANGE SMILES. OUT ON JACK AND STACI.

COMMUNITY CENTER. MORGAN, CANDIS, AND OTHER VOLUNTEERS ARE CLEARING UP AFTER THE MEAL. THERE IS A SMALL CHRISTMAS TREE, DECORATED WITH RED PLAID BOWS AND WHITE LIGHTS, IN THE CORNER. SOME OF THE PARENTS AND CHILDREN ARE GATHERED AROUND IT SINGING "RUDOLPH THE RED-NOSED REINDEER." JANET AND MARCUS COME IN JUST AS CANDIS AND MORGAN RETURN FROM THE KITCHEN.

MARCUS: That's us, fun-loving shirkers.

MORGAN: You're not getting off that easy. There are still a few things that need doing around here. We saved the hard stuff for you.

JANET: Thanks. I think. What do you need us to do?

MORGAN TAPS HIS CHIN THOUGHTFULLY AND WALKS IN A CIRCLE AROUND JANET. JANET AND MARCUS LOOK AT EACH OTHER AND SHRUG, WHILE CANDIS JUST SMILES.

JANET: (DEADPAN) Ho ho ho.

MORGAN: (THROWS UP HIS HANDS) That's the best you can do?

JANET: (BRIGHTER) Ho ho ho.

MORGAN: Well...

JANET: (HEARTILY) HO HO HO!!

MORGAN: Excellent! You, Captain, my Captain, are going to be playing Santa and passing out the gifts.

JANET: I thought you said only hard jobs were left!

MARCUS: I'm going to get that one.

CANDIS WALKS TO THE FRONT DESK AND RETURNS WITH A LARGE BOOK, WHICH SHE HANDS TO MARCUS.

MARCUS TURNS THE BOOK OVER IN HIS HANDS. HE LOOKS QUESTIONINGLY AT CANDIS.

CANDIS: Will you read the Christmas Story?

MARCUS: I'd be honored.

THE FOUR MOVE TOWARDS THE CHRISTMAS TREE. CANDIS CLAPS HER HANDS.

EVERYONE RUSHES TO DRAG CHAIRS OVER TO THE TREE OR FIND A SPACE TO SIT ON THE FLOOR. MARCUS AND JANET TAKE THEIR PLACES ON TWO LOW STOOLS IN FRONT OF THE TREE. MARCUS OPENS THE BIBLE AND CLEARS HIS THROAT.

WE SEE VARIOUS ADULTS AND SQUIRMING KIDS, ALL SMILING AND RAPT. WE SEE CANDIS AND MORGAN, STANDING NEXT TO THE TREE, ARM IN ARM. BACK TO MARCUS.

HOLD ON JANET, SMILING AT MARCUS.

CUT TO: BRADY LIVING ROOM. JOHN, BRADY, AND BO SIT ON THE SOFA. CARRIE, MAX, SHAWN-D AND STEPHANIE SIT ON THE FLOOR NEAR THE TREE. SHAWN SITS IN THE CHAIR AND CAROLINE IS HANGING UP THE PHONE. IN PROGRESS.

SHAWN: It was. I surely do miss that boy sometimes.

BO: You miss the arguments, Pop.

SHAWN: And looks who's talkin'...

CAROLINE: (LOOKING HEAVENWARD) How have I survived all this blarney and bluster for so long...

SHAWN STANDS, WALKS OVER TO CAROLINE AND GIVES HER A BIG HUG AND KISS.

THE FAMILY LAUGHS. KAYLA BURSTS IN, SLIGHTLY BREATHLESS.

CAROLINE: Darling, don't worry. We didn't start without you. But we were getting a little worried.

KAYLA: There were so many children there, waiting for Santa...

JOHN: I'll bet there were happy to see you and Marcus...

KAYLA: Marcus had an emergency. I doubt he'll even make it for dinner.

BO: If Marcus wasn't Santa, who was?

KAYLA: Jack...

JOHN: Jack Deveraux?

KAYLA: Yes... and he was wonderful. Steve would have been proud of his little brother...

CAROLINE: I'm sure he would have. And I'm glad it all worked out.

BO: Hey, Ma, speaking of little brothers... when are you going to tell us what Frankie said in his letter.

MAX: Can I tell? Please?

CAROLINE: Of course, Max.

MAX: Frankie says he loves us and misses us and wants us all to have a Merry Christmas.

BO: Thanks, Max, that's a good Christmas message.

MAX: Yeah... Oh... and the cows are feeling better.

JOHN: (LAUGHING) That's the most important news of all.

SHAWN: Darlin', now that we're all here... what do you think about us starting on that dinner?

CAROLINE: Of course! Please, everyone sit down. Carrie, Kayla, can you help me with the food?

SHAWN AND BO SIT DOWN. JOHN PUTS BRADY IN A HIGH CHAIR THEN SITS. MAX HELPS STEPHANIE WITH HER CHAIR AS HE JOINS STEPHANIE AND SHAWN-D AT THE "CHILDREN'S TABLE." KAYLA, CARRIE AND CAROLINE BRING IN THE REST OF THE FOOD AND PLACE IT ON THE TABLE.

CAROLINE: Thank you, Shawn.

CAROLINE, CARRIE AND KAYLA SIT.

THEY ALL JOIN HANDS.

ALL: Amen...

SHAWN: Now... let's eat!

HOLD ON THE FAMILY GROUP, PASSING AROUND DISHES, SERVING THEMSELVES, ETC.

CUT TO: HORTON LIVING ROOM. TOM, ALICE, BILL, MICKEY, MAGGIE, DOUG, JULIE, JENNIFER, JACK, ABIGAIL. IN PROGRESS.

JENNIFER: Oh Grandma, can't we wait for a few minutes until Jack gets here? I want him to see Abby hang her ball.

ALICE: Well I sup...

ALICE IS INTERRUPTED BY SOMEONE KNOCKING ON THE FRONT DOOR. SHE GOES TO ANSWER IT. JACK ENTERS, WEARING HIS PATCHY CLAUS SUIT. ALICE FOLLOWS.

JACK PICKS UP ABIGAIL WHO SQUEALS AND PULLS HIS BEARD.

ABIGAIL: Dada!

JACK: I told you we had a brilliant child.

JACK HUGS JENNIFER AND RUBS NOSES WITH ABIGAIL.

MICKEY: It certainly was... And you cut a fine figure of a Claus.

JACK: Thank you, thank you. But it was nothing... nothing at all... (TAKING OFF HIS BEARD)

MAGGIE KISSES JACK, MUCH TO HIS EMBARRASSMENT.

JACK: Steve was the benchmark for "Patchy Clauses..." But I'm proud to be able to follow in my brother's footsteps, no matter how large...

JENNIFER: We're all proud of you!

JENNIFER HUGS JACK.

ALL: We're ready!

JACK: Let the balls begin!

ALICE TAKES THE BOX OF ORNAMENTS AND SETS IT ON A TABLE BY THE TREE. SHE REACHES FOR HER AND TOM'S ORNAMENTS. SHE HANDS ONE TO TOM AND THEY PLACE THEIR ORNAMENTS SIDE BY SIDE ON THE TREE. WE HEAR "WHITE CHRISTMAS" SOFTLY PLAYING.

TOM: Merry Christmas, Alice... Now, Julie...

JULIE AND DOUG TAKE THEIR ORNAMENTS AND PLACE THEM TOGETHER ON THE TREE. THEY KISS. THEN DOUG PICKS UP HOPE'S ORNAMENT AND JULIE TAKES ADDIE'S. THEY HANG THEM. A SINGLE TEAR RUNS DOWN JULIE'S CHEEK. DOUG WIPES IT AWAY AND TAKES JULIE'S HAND IN HIS, KISSING THE PALM.

JULIE THEN HANGS STEVEN, SCOTTY AND DAVID'S ORNAMENTS. DOUG PICKS UP SHAWN-D'S, THEN GENTLY PLACES IT BACK IN THE BOX, NEXT TO BO'S.

JULIE: Merry Christmas... Maggie, Uncle Mickey...

MAGGIE AND MICKEY HANG THEIR ORNAMENTS AS WELL AS JANICE, MELISSA AND SARAH'S. MICKEY KISSES MAGGIE, THEN PICKS UP TWO MORE ORNAMENTS FROM THE BOX.

ALICE AND MICKEY HANG MARIE, JESSICA, TOMMY, SANDY, KITTY, AND MARGO'S ORNAMENTS.

BILL: Thanks, Mom.

BILL LOOKS LOVINGLY AT JENNIFER AND TAKES HIS AND LAURA'S ORNAMENTS AND HANGS THEM ON THE TREE. HE HUGS JENNIFER AS HE WALKS BACK TOWARD THE FIREPLACE.

JENNIFER TAKES HER ORNAMENT AND JACK TAKES HIS "LITTLE BALL." THEY HANG THEM TOGETHER AND EMBRACE.

JACK: Merry Christmas, Miss Horton...

JENNIFER HANGS MIKE'S ORNAMENT, THEN SHE PICKS UP ABIGAIL AND TAKES HER ORNAMENT. JENNIFER AND JACK WALK TO THE TREE WITH ABIGAIL. ABIGAIL STARES IN WONDER AT THE SPARKLING TREE AND HER BEAUTIFUL ORNAMENT DECORATED WITH ANGELS.

JACK: Abigail, you must learn how to do this if you want to stay in this family... It's a requirement.

JENNIFER: Oh Jack!

ABIGAIL HOLDS THE ORNAMENT AND WITH JENNIFER AND JACK'S HELP THEY PLACE IT JUST BENEATH THEIRS.

JACK KISSES ABIGAIL. JENNIFER, MISTY-EYED, STROKES JACK'S FACE WITH HER HAND. HE TAKES IT AND KISSES HER HAND. DOUG BEGINS TO SING "WHITE CHRISTMAS" AND EVERYONE JOINS IN. OUT ON THE SINGING AND THE FAMILY GATHERED AROUND THE BEAUTIFUL TREE. FADE TO BLACK.