A sleek, modern skyline sparkles with holiday lights.
Somewhere, a choir sings "Joy to the World" — but the camera
drifts away from the cheer, up to a high-rise window where
the blinds are drawn tight.
INT. JACK HARPER’S APARTMENT – NIGHT
Sparse. Sterile. Everything in grayscale: dark wood, cold
granite, muted furniture. Not a single Christmas decoration
in sight.
Stacks of books and feature film scripts. Empty coffee cups.
One laptop glowing in the dimness.
At the desk sits JACK HARPER (36) — scruffy, handsome, hollow-
eyed. A man made of sarcasm and sadness.
He stares at a blank screen. The blinking cursor taunts him.
A beat.
He types:
INT. LIVING ROOM – CHRISTMAS MORNING
A boy waits by the tree. No gifts. No family. Just silence.
He stops. Hits delete. Watches it all disappear.
INT. JACK’S APARTMENT – LATER
TINA (28, bubbly) — Jack’s irrepressible assistant — strides
in with a peppermint mocha in one hand and a laptop in the
other.
TINA
(cheerfully sarcastic)
Smells like creativity
and self-loathing in
here. Merry Not-Quite-
December.
JACK
You’re two days early for your
annual failed attempt to get me to
hang a wreath.
TINA
Wrong. I’m three days late. I
waited. I gave you a grace period.
Now it’s war.
She pulls a tiny ornament out of her purse and places it on
his desk.
JACK
Absolutely not.
TINA
His name is Carl. He’s a festive
hedgehog. He brings joy.
JACK
Carl is a war criminal.
MONTAGE – TINA VS. JACK: CHRISTMAS EDITION
- She sets out a string of lights.
- He unplugs them.
- She hides a Santa figurine in the fridge.
- He mails it to Nebraska.
- She replaces his coffee with hot cocoa.
- He dumps it out and glares at her like she kicked his dog.
INT. JACK’S APARTMENT – NIGHT
Tina looks at him — really looks — as he pretends to be
amused by the banter. But she sees the hollowness behind the
eyes.
TINA
You know, it’s been a long time
since you’ve written anything that
mattered.
That lands harder than she meant.
TINA (CONT’D)
I didn’t mean—just… maybe this
season’s not the enemy. Maybe you
are.
She regrets it the moment it’s out.
JACK
There’s no story in tinsel and fake
snow, Tina. There’s no story in
pretending things don’t hurt.
Genres:
["Drama","Comedy"]
Ratings
Scene
2 -
Silent Struggles
INT. JACK’S BEDROOM – LATE NIGHT
He’s in bed, wide awake. Outside, distant carolers sing.
He pulls the blanket over his head.
INT. JACK’S APARTMENT – NEXT MORNING
Tina’s not there. It’s too quiet.
Jack moves like a man sleepwalking. He opens his inbox.
EMAIL FROM: AGENT
Subject: URGENT — You Need to Deliver
Jack,
It’s been 14 months. That spec script isn’t sellable. The
studio passed. Again. We need something new, not rewrites of
your glory days.
I’m still in your corner, but come January, we need a win.
—Mara
He closes the laptop.
INT. LITERARY OFFICE – PHONE CALL – LATER
Jack paces while talking to MARA (40s), direct and sharp,
over speakerphone.
MARA (V.O.)
You’re stuck, Jack. This... cynical
loop you’re in? It’s killing your
voice.
JACK
There’s enough Christmas scripts on
the market to make Rudolph puke.
I’m not adding to the pile.
MARA (V.O.)
This isn’t about Christmas. This is
about heart. Emotion. You.
Jack has no answer.
Genres:
["Drama"]
Ratings
Scene
3 -
A Coffee Shop Confrontation
INT. COFFEE SHOP – DAY
Tina and Jack sit with mugs. Tina’s suitcase is beside her.
TINA
So that’s it. You're just going to
sit here, drink dark roast, and
rot?
JACK
I might stand sometimes.
TINA
Jack, come on. Write anything. Take
a risk. Feel something. God forbid
you even—
JACK
—celebrate Christmas?
A beat.
TINA
I was going to say talk to a human,
but sure, start there.
She sighs, then softens.
TINA (CONT’D)
You know, there’s this weird thing
called nature. Some people go
outside. Like, voluntarily.
JACK
Snow is just water that’s trying
too hard.
TINA
Okay, Scrooze. You do you.
She stands to leave. Her cab honks outside.
TINA (CONT’D)
But I’m serious — disappear if you
need to. Get weird. Get quiet. Just
don’t come back with another story
about a washed-up guy who can’t
feel anything.
That one hits home.
Genres:
["Drama","Comedy"]
Ratings
Scene
4 -
Holiday Tension
INT. JACK’S APARTMENT – NIGHT
Jack stares at the screen.
His cursor blinks again. Still nothing.
He opens a browser. Types:
"Cabins with no holiday theme – California"
He scrolls, annoyed by all the jingle-bell logos. Then—
FADE IN:
EXT. LOS ANGELES – NIGHT – LATE NOVEMBER
A sleek, modern skyline sparkles with holiday lights.
Somewhere, a choir sings "Joy to the World" — but the camera
drifts away from the cheer, up to a high-rise window where
the blinds are drawn tight.
INT. JACK HARPER’S APARTMENT – NIGHT
Sparse. Sterile. Everything in grayscale: dark wood, cold
granite, muted furniture. Not a single Christmas decoration
in sight.
Stacks of books and feature film scripts. Empty coffee cups.
One laptop glowing in the dimness.
At the desk sits JACK HARPER (36) — scruffy, handsome, hollow-
eyed. A man made of sarcasm and sadness.
He stares at a blank screen. The blinking cursor taunts him.
A beat.
He types:
INT. LIVING ROOM – CHRISTMAS MORNING
A boy waits by the tree. No gifts. No family. Just silence.
He stops. Hits backspace. Watches it all disappear.
INT. JACK’S APARTMENT – LATER
TINA (28) — Jack’s irrepressible assistant — strides in with
a peppermint mocha in one hand and a laptop in the other.
TINA
(cheerfully sarcastic)
Smells like creativity
and self-loathing in
here. Merry Not-Quite-
December.
JACK
You’re two days early for your
annual failed attempt to get me to
hang a wreath.
TINA
Wrong. I’m three days late. I
waited. I gave you a grace period.
Now it’s war.
She pulls a tiny ornament out of her purse and places it on
his desk.
JACK
Absolutely not.
TINA
His name is Carl. He’s a festive
hedgehog. He brings joy.
JACK
Carl is a war criminal.
MONTAGE – TINA VS. JACK: CHRISTMAS EDITION
- She sets out a string of lights.
- He unplugs them.
- She hides a Santa figurine in the fridge.
- He mails it to Nebraska.
- She replaces his coffee with hot cocoa.
- He dumps it out and glares at her like she kicked his dog.
Genres:
["Drama","Comedy"]
Ratings
Scene
5 -
Stagnation and Silence
INT. JACK’S APARTMENT – NIGHT
Tina looks at him — really looks — as he pretends to be
amused by the banter. But she sees the hollowness behind the
eyes.
TINA
You know, it’s been a long time
since you’ve written anything that
mattered.
That lands harder than she meant.
TINA (CONT’D)
I didn’t mean—just… maybe this
season’s not the enemy. Maybe you
are.
She regrets it the moment it’s out.
JACK
There’s no story in tinsel and fake
snow, Tina. There’s no story in
pretending things don’t hurt.
INT. JACK’S BEDROOM – LATE NIGHT
He’s in bed, wide awake. Outside, distant carolers sing.
He pulls the blanket over his head.
INT. JACK’S APARTMENT – NEXT MORNING
Tina’s not there. It’s too quiet.
Jack moves like a man sleepwalking. He opens his inbox.
EMAIL FROM: AGENT
Subject: URGENT — You Need to Deliver
Jack,
It’s been 14 months. That spec script isn’t sellable. The
studio passed. Again. We need something new, not rewrites of
your glory days.
I’m still in your corner, but come January, we need a win.
—Mara
He closes the laptop.
INT. LITERARY OFFICE – PHONE CALL – LATER
Jack paces while talking to MARA (40s), direct and sharp,
over speakerphone.
MARA (V.O.)
You’re stuck, Jack. This... cynical
loop you’re in? It’s killing your
voice.
JACK
There’s enough Christmas scripts on
the market to make Rudolph puke.
I’m not adding to the pile.
MARA (V.O.)
This isn’t about Christmas. This is
about heart. Emotion. You.
Jack has no answer.
Genres:
["Drama"]
Ratings
Scene
6 -
Confrontation and Reflection
INT. COFFEE SHOP – DAY
Tina and Jack sit with mugs. Tina’s suitcase is beside her.
TINA
So that’s it. You're just going to
sit here, drink dark roast, and
rot?
JACK
I might stand sometimes.
TINA
Jack, come on. Write anything. Take
a risk. Feel something. God forbid
you even—
JACK
—celebrate Christmas?
A beat.
TINA
I was going to say talk to a human,
but sure, start there.
She sighs, then softens.
TINA (CONT’D)
You know, there’s this weird thing
called nature. Some people go
outside. Like, voluntarily.
JACK
Snow is just water that’s trying
too hard.
TINA
Okay, Scrooze. You do you.
She stands to leave. Her cab honks outside.
TINA (CONT’D)
But I’m serious — disappear if you
need to. Get weird. Get quiet. Just
don’t come back with another story
about a washed-up guy who can’t
feel anything.
That one hits home.
INT. JACK’S APARTMENT – NIGHT
Jack stares at the screen.
His cursor blinks again. Still nothing.
He opens a browser. Types:
"Cabins with no holiday theme – California"
He scrolls, annoyed by all the jingle-bell logos. Then—
A listing:
"Silver Pines – Peace, Privacy, and Zero Pressure"
No reviews. Remote. Secluded. He clicks "Book Now."
CUT TO:
Genres:
["Drama","Character Study"]
Ratings
Scene
7 -
Conversations at 30,000 Feet
INT. AIRPLANE – BUSINESS CLASS – DAY
Jack sips a whiskey. Business class is quiet, cocooned from
the world. He exhales — almost relaxed.
A late-boarding passenger takes the seat beside him. He’s in
his 60s, wearing a worn clerical collar and a kind
expression.
PRIEST
Excuse me — mind if I squeeze in?
JACK
Be my guest.
The priest sits. Settles in. Buckles his belt.
PRIEST
You headed home or away from it?
JACK
Depends on the definition of
"home."
PRIEST
Fair. I’m off to a retreat.
Silence, snow, soup. The holy
trinity.
Jack smirks.
JACK
I’m going to a cabin with no
Christmas. Figured I’d give
asceticism a shot.
PRIEST
A man after my own heart.
A pause.
PRIEST (CONT’D)
You a reader? Or a watcher?
JACK
Screenwriter.
PRIEST
Ah! That explains the brooding
look. You guys cornered the market
on that.
JACK
Just trying to live up to the
cliches.
PRIEST
Well, I’ve got bones to pick with
your profession. Used to be stories
meant something. Now it’s sequels,
explosions, and talking animals.
JACK
That’s the brand. Nostalgia or
nihilism. No middle ground.
PRIEST
There used to be grace in the
middle ground.
A pause. Jack studies him.
JACK
So... why are you a believer?
PRIEST
(smiles, gently)
I take it you’re not.
JACK
Let’s see. War. Famine. Disease.
Cruelty. Kids buried in rubble.
People doing evil in the name of
God. If there’s a divine plan, it
reads like a horror script.
The priest nods, unoffended.
PRIEST
Maybe. Or maybe the divine isn’t in
the plan. Maybe it’s in the
interruptions. The people who pull
others from the rubble. The ones
who sit beside the lonely. Who love
anyway.
That lands. Jack doesn’t know how to respond.
The priest looks forward.
PRIEST (CONT’D)
Ooh, I haven’t seen this one.
He puts on his headphones and points to the in-flight movie.
Jack stares ahead. Eyes just a little wider than before.
Genres:
["Drama"]
Ratings
Scene
8 -
A Quiet Arrival
EXT. HIGHWAY – DAY
Jack’s rental car moves north through fog, hills, then pines
and patches of snow. He drives in silence. Not even music.
There’s a box on the passenger seat: Tina’s “gift” — Carl the
festive hedgehog ornament. He sighs.
JACK
You're lucky you’re plastic.
EXT. SILVER PINES INN – DUSK
He pulls in. The B&B is modest, rustic, quiet. No
inflatables, no lights. Just trees and stillness.
Jack gets out, stretches.
From a window: Masha watches him, curious.
From inside: a faint Ukrainian lullaby plays.
Jack shivers and mutters:
JACK
Peace, privacy, and no pressure...
We'll see.
CUT TO:
INT. SILVER PINES – DINING ROOM – LATER
Jack sits, alone, at a small table. Simple meal. Fire
crackles.
Katya 30’s, gorgeous, long blonde hair, enters with a tray.
Jack glances up, surprised — clearly wasn’t expecting a
personal cook.
KATYA
You are the writer?
JACK
That depends. If you hated my book,
I’m someone else.
She doesn’t smile.
KATYA
I never read your book. I cook.
She sets the plate down and turns to leave.
Jack watches her go, off balance for the first time in a
while.
INT. SILVER PINES – MASHA’S ROOM – SAME TIME
Masha draws in a notebook — a tall man, a cabin, a little
girl holding his hand. A Christmas tree in the corner. Her
mother watches silently from the doorway.
INT. SILVER PINES KITCHEN – CONTINUOUS
KATYA (33) slices apples with expert care. Her face is tired
but dignified.
Her daughter, MASHA (6), tugs her sleeve.
MASHA (IN UKRAINIAN)
Mama, is that the sad man?
Katya looks out a corner table. Sees Jack.
KATYA (SOFTLY, IN ENGLISH)
Maybe. We’ll be kind anyway.
CUT TO:
INT. B&B FOYER – MOMENTS LATER
Jack eats. The innkeeper gives him a polite nod when he
enters.
From the kitchen, faint Ukrainian carols play — unfamiliar,
haunting, beautiful.
JACK
I was promised no Christmas.
INNKEEPER
Technically... it’s not your kind.
JACK
Tell me about the cook and her kid?
INNKEEPER
Katya and Masha. They’re from
Ukraine. Lost her husband in the
war. Town helped sponsor them. She
cooks, helps out around here. Good
people.
JACK
She seems... warm.
INNKEEPER
That was her warm.
JACK
And the girl?
INNKEEPER
Quiet. Draws a lot. Sharp, though.
Like she’s seen more than she
should.
JACK
Yeah. Haven’t we all?
The innkeeper gives him a look — one that says, some more
than others.
INNKEEPER
Give it time. They grow on you. I
will ask Katya to turn the
Christmas music lower.
Jack nods. Beat. Takes a deep breath and heads upstairs.
FADE OUT.
Genres:
["Drama","Character Study"]
Ratings
Scene
9 -
A Snowman's Redemption
INT. SILVER PINES – COMMON ROOM – NEXT DAY
Morning light filters through frosted windows. Jack sits at a
table with coffee and his laptop open but untouched. MASHA
(6) sits across from him with colored pencils and a
sketchpad.
MASHA
What are you writing?
JACK
Nothing. That’s the whole point of
being a writer.
MASHA
I thought writers make stories.
JACK
Some do. I make excuses.
Masha giggles. Jack looks up, surprised he got a laugh.
MASHA
I heard you hate Christmas. Why?
JACK
With every fiber of my bitter old
soul.
MASHA
But why?
JACK
Because it’s loud, sparkly, and
smells like cinnamon lies.
MASHA
Cinnamon lies sound yummy.
Jack cracks a reluctant smile.
JACK
Don’t tell your mom I said that.
MASHA
She already thinks you're strange.
JACK
She’s not wrong.
Masha holds up a drawing — a snowman wearing sunglasses and
frowning.
MASHA
This is you.
JACK
That’s... horrifyingly accurate.
MASHA
He melts when someone gives him a
hug.
Jack looks at her. Something in him softens.
JACK
Is that a threat?
MASHA
Maybe.
Katya appears in the doorway, watching them. Jack quickly
glances away, back to his laptop.
KATYA
Masha, breakfast, and don’t bother
the gentlemen.
MASHA
I’m coming!
She scoops up her drawing and runs over.
Katya lingers for a second, nods politely to Jack, and
leaves.
Jack stares at his screen. Then, slowly, he starts typing.
JACK (V.O.)
"Once upon a time, there was a
snowman who hated Christmas...
until a girl gave him a name."
FADE OUT.
Genres:
["Drama","Comedy"]
Ratings
Scene
10 -
Midnight Baking
INT. SILVER PINES – KITCHEN – NIGHT
The house is quiet. Snow taps gently at the windows.
Katya stands at the counter, wearing an old sweatshirt, hair
tied back. She’s rolling out dough, focused but distant.
Jack steps in, bleary-eyed, holding an empty mug.
JACK
Smells like insomnia.
Katya glances up, guarded.
KATYA
Apple kolach. My grandmother’s
recipe. When I can’t sleep, I bake.
JACK
When I can’t sleep, I pace and
consider punching a wall.
KATYA
Your way sounds painful.
Jack chuckles lightly. He sets the mug down.
JACK
Coffee off-limits after midnight?
Katya nods toward the pot. Jack pours a cup.
JACK (CONT’D)
Your kid’s funny.
KATYA
She thinks you are sad. But she
also thinks you are a little like a
cartoon snowman.
JACK
I’ll take it.
A pause.
JACK (CONT’D)
She drew a tree in the corner of
her sketch today. Christmas?
KATYA
We used to celebrate. Before.
JACK
Before the war.
She nods. A long beat as she works the dough.
KATYA
In Ukraine, we celebrated Christmas
in January. Orthodox calendar. But
Masha... she watches everything.
She wants what other children have.
I cannot give her much.
JACK
She has you. That’s more than most.
Katya’s hands pause over the dough. She doesn’t look up.
KATYA
For now.
JACK
What does that mean?
She hesitates. Then brushes it off.
KATYA
It means nothing. Just... late-
night thoughts.
Jack watches her. He doesn’t push.
JACK
Want help?
KATYA
You know how to bake?
JACK
Absolutely not.
She smirks. Hands him a second rolling pin.
KATYA
Then stand there and do not touch
anything.
JACK
That I can do.
They work in quiet rhythm. For a moment, the silence feels
like comfort.
FADE OUT.
Genres:
["Drama","Character Study"]
Ratings
Scene
11 -
Morning Banter and Creative Sparks
INT. SILVER PINES – JACK’S ROOM – MORNING
Jack lounges on the bed in sweats, nursing a coffee, laptop
open but untouched. The PHONE BUZZES beside him. He groans
and answers.
JACK
I’m alive. Barely.
TINA (V.O.)
That’s the best opening line I’ve
gotten from you in a year.
JACK
What do you want, Tina?
TINA (V.O.)
Just checking in. Making sure the
inn didn’t burst into song and send
you running.
JACK
There was a snowball ambush. I
barely survived.
TINA (V.O.)
From the kid?
JACK
No. A militia of sugar-high elves.
TINA (V.O.)
I’m telling you — this sounds like
a screenplay already.
JACK
Don’t.
TINA (V.O.)
You’re writing again, aren’t you?
Jack hesitates. Stares at the blinking cursor.
JACK
Maybe.
TINA (V.O.)
And the woman? Katya?
JACK
She tolerates me. Barely.
TINA (V.O.)
Sounds like love.
JACK
Goodbye, Tina.
TINA (V.O.)
Wait! What about Carl?
JACK
He’s safe. For now.
CLICK. Jack smirks to himself and finally puts his fingers on
the keys.
FADE OUT.
Genres:
["Drama","Comedy"]
Ratings
Scene
12 -
Morning Lullaby
INT. SILVER PINES – KITCHEN – EARLY MORNING
The kitchen is bathed in soft winter light. Katya moves
gracefully between the stove and counter, humming a soft
Ukrainian lullaby under her breath. She doesn’t notice Jack
standing in the doorway.
He watches, coffee in hand — unsure whether to step forward
or stay hidden.
JACK
That a Christmas song?
Katya startles slightly. She turns, guarded.
KATYA
No. Just something my mother used
to sing when we couldn’t sleep.
JACK
It’s nice. Sounds like a memory.
KATYA
Most songs are.
She returns to chopping herbs.
JACK
Sorry. Didn’t mean to interrupt the
concert.
KATYA
You didn’t. It was just for me.
Beat. Jack leans against the doorframe.
JACK
You always cook this early?
KATYA
Bread rises better when it feels
calm. Masha sleeps in longer when
she knows I’m close.
JACK
That’s... oddly poetic.
KATYA
I thought you were the writer.
Jack smirks, then steps closer, slowly.
JACK
Can I help?
She eyes him, skeptical.
KATYA
You helped last time by not
touching anything.
JACK
I can repeat that performance.
Katya cracks the faintest smile. Jack grabs a stool and sits,
sipping his coffee as she works.
They sit in shared quiet for a beat.
JACK (CONT’D)
You and Masha. You two always been
on your own?
She hesitates. Doesn’t look up.
KATYA
Since the shelling. My husband
stayed behind to defend the school.
He didn’t...
(MORE)
KATYA (CONT’D)
(beat)
He didn’t make it.
Jack nods. Doesn’t pry.
JACK
I’m sorry.
KATYA
Me too.
Beat. Katya wipes her hands on a dish towel.
KATYA (CONT’D)
I need to wake Masha.
She moves past him. Jack watches her go — for once, at a loss
for words.
FADE OUT.
Genres:
["Drama","Character Study"]
Ratings
Scene
13 -
Silent Observations
EXT. SILVER PINES INN – LATE AFTERNOON
Jack sits on the porch with a notebook, half-heartedly
sketching out words. Snow crunches nearby — Masha trots over
in her usual bundle of winter gear.
MASHA
There’s a tree lighting in town
tonight! They have cider and
cookies.
JACK
Sounds sticky.
MASHA
There’s music too. And lights. And
carolers!
JACK
That’s three things too many.
Katya walks up with a basket of folded laundry.
KATYA
You don’t have to go. We’re used to
going alone.
JACK
I’m sure the lights will still
light without me.
MASHA
But it’s better with people.
JACK
I’m people. And I’ll be right here.
Thinking. Writing. Avoiding holiday
cheer like a pro.
Katya gives him a half-smile, unreadable. She and Masha head
back inside. Jack watches them go — already regretting his
answer.
EXT. SMALL TOWN STREETS – EVENING
Jack walks alone. The streets are dressed in lights and
garland, but not in an overwhelming way — it’s all hand-done,
imperfect, human.
He passes a group of teens decorating a tree outside a diner.
A BOY drops a box of ornaments and groans. Jack bends down
and helps him collect them.
BOY
Thanks, mister.
JACK
Don’t mention it.
He keeps walking. A LITTLE GIRL slips and falls on the
sidewalk, then starts laughing. Her MOM laughs too and pulls
her up, brushing snow from her coat.
Jack stops. Watches for a moment. Then slowly continues.
INT. BOOKSTORE WINDOW – MOMENTS LATER
Jack glances through the foggy glass. Inside: warmth. Locals
laughing, someone reading poetry. The sign from earlier now
says: "Christmas Open Mic – Sign-ups Closed."
Jack smirks. Keeps walking.
EXT. SILVER PINES INN – NIGHT
Jack returns, a little snow on his shoulders. He opens the
front door and steps inside.
INT. SILVER PINES – ENTRYWAY – CONTINUOUS
On the table sits a stack of mail. One envelope — official,
stamped: **USCIS**.
Katya picks it up, stares at it. Doesn’t open it.
Masha runs in, excited and full of sugar.
MASHA
Mama, they had cider and I saw a
dog wearing a sweater and they
played sleigh bells and—
She notices the letter.
MASHA (CONT’D)
What’s that?
KATYA
Nothing.
She tucks it into her apron and kisses the top of Masha’s
head.
KATYA (CONT’D)
Time for bed.
Masha groans and runs off. Jack watches from the hall. He saw
the label too.
FADE OUT.
Genres:
["Drama","Character Study","Holiday"]
Ratings
Scene
14 -
A Snowman Story
INT. SILVER PINES – JACK’S ROOM – NIGHT
Jack sits on the edge of his bed, Masha’s crayon drawing in
his hand. It shows a snow-covered cabin. Three stick figures
— one tall, two small. A Christmas tree in the window.
Labeled: "Me, Mama, Jack."
He stares at it for a long time, then pins it above his desk.
INT. SILVER PINES – DINING ROOM – NEXT MORNING
Jack sits alone with coffee. A notebook open. He hesitates,
then starts writing.
JACK (V.O.)
Once upon a time, there was a
snowman who hated Christmas.
(MORE)
JACK (V.O.) (CONT'D)
He lived alone on a hill where no
music played and no lights
twinkled.
INT. SILVER PINES – KITCHEN – LATER
Katya preps dough. Jack walks in, notebook in hand.
JACK
Masha around?
KATYA
School group at the library. Why?
JACK
I wrote something. For her.
He offers the notebook. Katya hesitates, then takes it.
KATYA
I’ll read it to her tonight.
JACK
You can read it now. I mean... if
you want.
She nods and sets it aside — not dismissive, but not ready
yet either.
INT. SILVER PINES – MASHA’S ROOM – NIGHT
Masha lies in bed under a thick blanket. Katya sits beside
her with the notebook.
MASHA
Is it a Christmas story?
KATYA
It’s... kind of a snowman story.
She opens the notebook and begins to read — soft, steady.
KATYA (V.O.)
Once upon a time, there was a
snowman who hated Christmas...
Genres:
["Drama","Character Study"]
Ratings
Scene
15 -
A Moment of Regret
INT. SILVER PINES – JACK’S ROOM – SAME TIME
Jack lies in bed. Eyes open. Listening through the thin
walls. A faint smile on his face.
FADE OUT.
EXT. SILVER PINES INN – LATE AFTERNOON
Jack sits on the porch with a notebook, half-heartedly
sketching out words. Snow crunches nearby — Masha trots over
in her usual bundle of winter gear.
MASHA
There’s a tree lighting in town
tonight! They have cider and
cookies.
JACK
Sounds sticky.
MASHA
There’s music too. And lights. And
carolers!
JACK
That’s three things too many.
Katya walks up with a basket of folded laundry.
KATYA
You don’t have to go. We’re used to
going alone.
JACK
I’m sure the lights will still
light without me.
MASHA
But it’s better with people.
JACK
I’m people. And I’ll be right here.
Thinking. Writing. Avoiding holiday
cheer like a pro.
Katya gives him a half-smile, unreadable. She and Masha head
back inside. Jack watches them go — already regretting his
answer.
Genres:
["Drama","Character Study"]
Ratings
Scene
16 -
Silent Observations
EXT. SMALL TOWN STREETS – EVENING
Jack walks alone. The streets are dressed in lights and
garland, but not in an overwhelming way — it’s all hand-done,
imperfect, human.
He passes a group of teens decorating a tree outside a diner.
A BOY drops a box of ornaments and groans. Jack bends down
and helps him collect them.
BOY
Thanks, mister.
JACK
Don’t mention it.
He keeps walking. A LITTLE GIRL slips and falls on the
sidewalk, then starts laughing. Her MOM laughs too and pulls
her up, brushing snow from her coat.
Jack stops. Watches for a moment. Then slowly continues.
INT. BOOKSTORE WINDOW – MOMENTS LATER
Jack glances through the foggy glass. Inside: warmth. Locals
laughing, someone reading poetry. The sign from earlier now
says: "Christmas Open Mic – Sign-ups Closed."
Jack smirks. Keeps walking.
EXT. SILVER PINES INN – NIGHT
Jack returns, a little snow on his shoulders. He opens the
front door and steps inside.
INT. SILVER PINES – ENTRYWAY – CONTINUOUS
On the table sits a stack of mail. One envelope — official,
stamped: **USCIS**.
Katya picks it up, stares at it. Doesn’t open it.
Masha runs in, excited and full of sugar.
MASHA
Mama, they had cider and I saw a
dog wearing a sweater and they
played sleigh bells and—
She notices the letter.
MASHA (CONT’D)
What’s that?
KATYA
Nothing.
She tucks it into her apron and kisses the top of Masha’s
head.
KATYA (CONT’D)
Time for bed.
Masha groans and runs off. Jack watches from the hall. He saw
the label too.
FADE OUT.
Genres:
["Drama","Character Study","Slice of Life"]
Ratings
Scene
17 -
Late Night Conversations
INT. SILVER PINES – KITCHEN – LATE NIGHT
Dim light. A kettle steams gently. Katya sits at the table,
her shoulders tense. Jack enters quietly, rubbing sleep from
his eyes.
JACK
Couldn't sleep. Again.
KATYA
Me either. Tea?
JACK
Sure. As long as it’s not
peppermint.
KATYA
It's chamomile. I’m not a monster.
A small smile passes between them. She pours a cup and hands
it to him. They sit.
JACK
Did she like it? The story?
KATYA
She wants to read it again
tomorrow.
JACK
That’s more feedback than I’ve
gotten in months.
Beat.
JACK (CONT’D)
That letter earlier... from
immigration?
She stiffens.
KATYA
It’s... routine. Probably.
JACK
But?
She meets his eyes — not defensive, just tired.
KATYA
I don’t know yet. I’ll call someone
next week. No reason to panic until
there is.
JACK
You don’t have to handle everything
alone.
KATYA
Yes, I do.
She takes a sip of tea, breaking the moment. Jack respects
the wall — for now.
FADE OUT.
Genres:
["Drama"]
Ratings
Scene
18 -
A Story Shared
INT. SILVER PINES – JACK’S ROOM – NIGHT
Jack sits on the edge of his bed, Masha’s crayon drawing in
his hand. It shows a snow-covered cabin. Three stick figures
— one tall, two small. A Christmas tree in the window.
Labeled: "Me, Mama, Jack."
He stares at it for a long time, then pins it above his desk.
INT. SILVER PINES – DINING ROOM – NEXT MORNING
Jack sits alone with coffee. A notebook open. He hesitates,
then starts writing.
JACK (V.O.)
Once upon a time, there was a
snowman who hated Christmas.
He lived alone on a hill where no music played and no lights
twinkled.
INT. SILVER PINES – KITCHEN – LATER
Katya preps dough. Jack walks in, notebook in hand.
JACK
Masha around?
KATYA
School group at the library. Why?
JACK
I wrote something. For her.
He offers the notebook. Katya hesitates, then takes it.
KATYA
I’ll read it to her tonight.
JACK
You can read it now. I mean... if
you want.
She nods and sets it aside — not dismissive, but not ready
yet either.
INT. SILVER PINES – MASHA’S ROOM – NIGHT
Masha lies in bed under a thick blanket. Katya sits beside
her with the notebook.
MASHA
Is it a Christmas story?
KATYA
It’s... kind of a snowman story.
She opens the notebook and begins to read — soft, steady.
KATYA (V.O.)
Once upon a time, there was a
snowman who hated Christmas...
INT. SILVER PINES – JACK’S ROOM – SAME TIME
Jack lies in bed. Eyes open. Listening through the thin
walls. A faint smile on his face.
FADE OUT.
INT. SILVER PINES – JACK’S ROOM – NIGHT
Jack sits on the edge of his bed, Masha’s crayon drawing in
his hand. It shows a snow-covered cabin. Three stick figures
— one tall, two small. A Christmas tree in the window.
Labeled: "Me, Mama, Jack."
He stares at it for a long time, then pins it above his desk.
INT. SILVER PINES – DINING ROOM – NEXT MORNING
Jack sits alone with coffee. A notebook open. He hesitates,
then starts writing.
JACK (V.O.)
Once upon a time, there was a
snowman who hated Christmas. He
lived alone on a hill where no
music played and no lights
twinkled.
INT. SILVER PINES – KITCHEN – LATER
Katya preps dough. Jack walks in, notebook in hand.
JACK
Masha around?
KATYA
School group at the library. Why?
JACK
I wrote something. For her.
He offers the notebook. Katya hesitates, then takes it.
KATYA
I’ll read it to her tonight.
JACK
You can read it now. I mean... if
you want.
She nods and sets it aside — not dismissive, but not ready
yet either.
INT. SILVER PINES – MASHA’S ROOM – NIGHT
Masha lies in bed under a thick blanket. Katya sits beside
her with the notebook.
MASHA
Is it a Christmas story?
KATYA
It’s... kind of a snowman story.
She opens the notebook and begins to read — soft, steady.
KATYA (V.O.)
Once upon a time, there was a
snowman who hated Christmas...
INT. SILVER PINES – JACK’S ROOM – SAME TIME
Jack lies in bed. Eyes open. Listening through the thin
walls. A faint smile on his face.
FADE OUT.
Genres:
["Drama","Family"]
Ratings
Scene
19 -
Morning Banter at Silver Pines
EXT. SILVER PINES INN – NEXT MORNING
Sunlight over snow. The sky is a clear blue. Jack steps out
onto the porch with a mug of coffee. He looks rested, more
present.
Masha appears in her oversized coat and snow boots, dragging
a red sled behind her.
MASHA
You missed the cookies last night.
JACK
I regret it deeply.
MASHA
There was a reindeer-shaped one. I
named him Steve.
JACK
A noble name. Did you eat Steve?
MASHA
I tried. He was mostly frosting.
Katya steps out behind her, adjusting her scarf.
KATYA
Library first. Then sledding.
MASHA
Jack should come!
JACK
I have... adult things to do.
MASHA
Like what?
JACK
Brooding. Avoiding cheer. Fighting
off creative breakthroughs.
KATYA
All before lunch?
JACK
I’m an overachiever.
Katya smiles slightly. Jack watches them head down the path.
He sips his coffee, then glances back inside.
Genres:
["Drama","Comedy"]
Ratings
Scene
20 -
A Quiet Resolve
INT. SILVER PINES – KITCHEN – LATER
Jack types on his laptop, half-focused. He stops. Glances
toward the door. Thinks. Then grabs his coat.
EXT. TOWN CENTER – DAY
Jack walks past shops decked in lights. He steps into a small
travel office labeled: "IMMIGRATION CONSULTING."
INT. IMMIGRATION OFFICE – MOMENTS LATER
A receptionist greets him.
RECEPTIONIST
Can I help you?
JACK
I have a friend who got a request
from USCIS. She’s... dealing with a
lot. She needs a sponsor. I just
want to know what that really
means.
The receptionist eyes him curiously.
RECEPTIONIST
You her employer?
JACK
Just... someone who doesn’t want
her sent back.
She hands him a brochure.
RECEPTIONIST
It’s not simple. But not impossible
either. Read that. And if she’s
open to it, we can talk.
Jack nods. Takes the paper.
EXT. LIBRARY – DAY
Jack stands across the street, watching through the glass.
Masha sits in a reading circle. Katya nearby, helping sort
books.
He doesn’t go in. Just watches. Then looks down at the
brochure in his hand.
FADE OUT.
INT. SILVER PINES – DINING ROOM – EVENING
Jack and Katya sit at the table. Masha colors nearby.
JACK
Can I ask something?
Katya looks up, cautious.
JACK (CONT’D)
If it got bad. Like... if you had
to leave. What would happen?
KATYA
We go back. To nothing. Or worse.
A quiet beat.
JACK
There might be a way. To help.
KATYA
Jack...
JACK
Just let me look into it. Not
charity. Not pity. Just... someone
helping someone else not disappear.
Katya doesn’t answer. But her eyes say everything.
FADE OUT.
Genres:
["Drama"]
Ratings
Scene
21 -
Snowy Shenanigans
INT. SILVER PINES – DINING ROOM – MORNING
A soft fire burns. Jack sips coffee while scrolling through
his laptop. Masha bounces in with mittens half-on.
MASHA
Jack! We’re making snow angels
today. You should come.
JACK
I don’t really have angelic energy.
MASHA
Mama says you're secretly kind.
That means angel.
JACK
She clearly doesn’t know about the
coffee incident of ’08.
MASHA
What's that?
JACK
Classified. But it involved a
squirrel and a cappuccino.
MASHA
I'm telling everyone.
Katya walks in, raising an eyebrow.
KATYA
What are you telling everyone?
MASHA
He did something with a squirrel
and a coffee!
KATYA
...Do I want to know?
JACK
Probably not.
They share a small laugh. Jack lingers in the moment.
EXT. HILL NEAR THE INN – LATE MORNING
Kids make snow angels. Masha coaches Jack on how to do one
properly. He lies flat in the snow, reluctantly.
MASHA
No, more arm flapping! Like wings!
JACK
This feels like cardio.
KATYA (O.S.)
It looks like a crime scene.
Jack looks up. Katya is smiling. He playfully throws a
handful of snow at her. She ducks, laughing.
Genres:
["Drama","Comedy"]
Ratings
Scene
22 -
A Snowman Who Stayed
INT. SILVER PINES – JACK'S ROOM – LATER
Jack writes. He stares at the screen:
"The snowman watched the girl build a tiny tree from sticks
and ribbon scraps. He wanted to hate it. But it felt... like
home."
A knock. He closes the laptop.
JACK
Come in.
Katya enters with two mugs of tea.
KATYA
Truce offering. Ginger and honey.
JACK
I accept. But only if you stop
accusing me of snow crimes.
KATYA
No promises.
They sit quietly for a beat.
JACK
I meant what I said. If you want me
to help... with the immigration
stuff...
KATYA
I don’t want to owe anyone.
Especially someone who might leave.
JACK
What if I don’t?
She looks at him. Guarded. Curious. Afraid.
KATYA
Don’t say things you can’t mean.
JACK
What if I already meant them?
INT. SILVER PINES – DINING ROOM – THAT NIGHT
A small, simple dinner. Masha draws at the table.
MASHA
Can we hang one decoration? Just
one?
JACK
What kind of decoration?
MASHA
Carl!
She pulls Carl the festive hedgehog from her coat pocket.
KATYA
Where did you get that?
MASHA
Jack had it in a drawer.
JACK
He was in witness protection.
MASHA
Can he go by the window?
Jack looks at Katya. She shrugs, faintly amused.
JACK
Okay. But just Carl. He’s the
decoy.
Masha beams and places Carl in the window.
MASHA
Now it feels more like a real
Christmas.
Katya watches Jack. Something in her softens further.
FADE OUT.
INT. SILVER PINES – JACK’S ROOM – LATE NIGHT
Jack sits by the window, laptop open, snow falling beyond. He
opens a new document: "A Snowman Who Stayed."
He starts typing.
FADE OUT.
INT. SILVER PINES – JACK’S ROOM – LATE NIGHT
Jack sits by the window, laptop open, snow falling beyond. He
opens a new document: "A Snowman Who Stayed."
He starts typing.
FADE OUT.
Genres:
["Drama","Romance"]
Ratings
Scene
23 -
Quiet Moments of Grief
INT. SILVER PINES – KITCHEN – VERY LATE NIGHT
The house is still. A kettle simmers on the stove.
Jack enters, barefoot, in a T-shirt and flannel pants. He
freezes when he sees Katya sitting at the table, back to him.
JACK
Can’t sleep either?
She doesn’t turn around right away.
KATYA
I didn’t want to wake anyone. Just
needed the quiet.
JACK
Quiet can be loud sometimes.
He grabs two mugs and starts pouring tea.
JACK (CONT’D)
Chamomile?
She nods. He sets the mug beside her. Then sits.
Silence.
KATYA
He died in April.
Jack doesn’t interrupt.
KATYA (CONT’D)
One day he was on video call,
showing Masha his new gloves. Two
days later I got a message. From a
friend, not the army. They hadn’t
even found all the...
(a pause)
parts.
Her voice cracks. She quickly wipes a tear away. Jack stays
silent, steady.
KATYA (CONT’D)
I didn't tell Masha everything. I
said he went to heaven. What do you
say to a six-year-old who draws him
into every picture?
JACK
You say the truth that keeps her
whole. Then deal with your own
later.
Katya breaks. A quiet sob. Then another. She puts her hand
over her face.
Jack doesn't touch her. But he stays.
JACK (CONT’D)
For what it's worth... I would've
liked him. Anyone who made you love
like that had to be worth
something.
She exhales — a sound like grief finally letting itself be
heard.
KATYA
I haven’t cried in front of anyone.
Not even my sister. I had to be
strong. Strong for her, for
immigration, for Masha. All the
time.
JACK
You don’t have to be right now.
She lets the tears fall. Quiet, real, cleansing.
He stays until the kettle whistles softly.
FADE OUT.
Genres:
["Drama"]
Ratings
Scene
24 -
Awkward Encounters
INT. SILVER PINES – MASHA’S ROOM – EARLY MORNING
Masha sleeps peacefully. On the nightstand is a small
drawing: a snowman holding hands with two people. One wears a
scarf.
INT. SILVER PINES – JACK’S ROOM – MOMENTS LATER
Jack sits at his laptop. Writing furiously.
JACK (V.O.)
And the snowman realized... maybe
he hadn’t melted because of the
cold, but because of how long he’d
refused to feel anything at all.
FADE OUT.
INT. SILVER PINES – HALLWAY – NEXT MORNING
Jack walks toward the kitchen with a mug of coffee.
Whistling. He rounds the corner—
—and nearly collides with Katya.
She’s just come out of the bathroom. Her hair still damp.
Wrapped in a sleek, short robe. Bare feet. Eyes wide.
They both freeze.
JACK
Oh!
KATYA
I—! Sorry!
JACK
Nope! Totally fine! Just...
hallway! Shared hallway!
KATYA
I didn’t think anyone would be—
JACK
Nope! Nope. You’re good. All yours.
They sidestep each other awkwardly. Jack keeps his eyes fixed
straight ahead. Katya does the same. Except—
—they both sneak a quick glance back.
Their eyes meet.
They quickly look away again.
JACK (CONT’D)
(mutters)
Coffee. I need stronger coffee.
KATYA
(mutters)
I need a longer robe.
They disappear into opposite rooms, flustered.
A beat.
Genres:
["Drama","Romance"]
Ratings
Scene
25 -
Baking Bonds
INT. JACK'S ROOM – MOMENTS LATER
Jack closes the door. Leans against it.
JACK
That wasn’t nothing.
INT. KATYA'S ROOM – SAME TIME
Katya leans against her own door, eyes wide.
KATYA
That was definitely not nothing.
FADE OUT.
INT. SILVER PINES – LIVING ROOM – LATE AFTERNOON
Masha and Jack sit near the fire, coloring. She's teaching
him how to draw snowflakes "properly."
MASHA
No, that one looks like a spider.
JACK
Harsh critic.
Katya watches from the kitchen, amused.
MASHA
What was Christmas like when you
were little?
Jack pauses.
JACK
Quiet. Mostly. No trees. No lights.
Just... books.
MASHA
That’s sad.
JACK
I didn’t know any different. But...
I like this better.
He taps her drawing.
JACK (CONT’D)
Especially your expert snowflakes.
She grins.
MASHA
Want to help us make cookies?
JACK
You want me in a kitchen?
MASHA
Mama says you should try things
before saying no.
Katya arches an eyebrow from across the room.
KATYA
DAH. I did say that.
INT. SILVER PINES – KITCHEN – MOMENTS LATER
Jack wears an apron comically too small. Flour everywhere.
Masha shows him how to use the cookie cutter.
JACK
This one looks like a deformed
moose.
MASHA
It’s a reindeer.
JACK
Still tracks.
Katya carefully slides a tray into the oven.
KATYA
Not bad for your first time baking.
JACK
I make words, not cookies.
MASHA
You made both today.
Beat. Jack looks at her, touched.
FADE OUT.
Genres:
["Drama","Family","Romance"]
Ratings
Scene
26 -
Snowman Sarcasm and Holiday Cheer
INT. SILVER PINES – JACK'S ROOM – MORNING
Jack types. Really types. A fire is lit. A mug of coffee sits
beside him.
JACK (V.O.)
The snowman hated carols. He hated
cocoa. But most of all, he hated
hope. Because if you didn’t hope,
you couldn’t lose.
INT. SILVER PINES – KITCHEN – LATER
Masha and Katya bake again. Jack enters with his laptop,
energized.
JACK
Okay, I need a ruling. Can a
snowman be sarcastic?
MASHA
Obviously.
KATYA
I thought you didn’t like
Christmas.
JACK
I don’t. But apparently my snowman
has other ideas.
MASHA
Is he going to melt?
JACK
Aren’t we all?
MASHA
No! He should get a scarf!
KATYA
And maybe stop being so stubborn.
JACK
Now he sounds familiar.
They all laugh.
Genres:
["Drama","Comedy"]
Ratings
Scene
27 -
A Package of Hope and Anxiety
INT. SILVER PINES – ENTRYWAY – NIGHT
The wind howls outside. Jack opens the door to retrieve
firewood. A note has been slipped under the door.
He picks it up. Reads.
JACK (V.O.)
"To the guest in Room 3, you have a
package at the front desk. Arrived
from L.A."
Jack frowns.
INT. FRONT DESK – MOMENTS LATER
Jack signs for a small box. Opens it.
Inside: Carl. The festive hedgehog. With a note from Tina.
TINA (V.O.)
"He missed you. Also, write the
damn story."
Jack smiles. Picks up Carl. Heads back to his room.
INT. SILVER PINES – JACK’S ROOM – NIGHT
He sets Carl beside the laptop. And types.
JACK (V.O.)
The snowman met a little girl who
didn’t care that he hated
Christmas. She liked him anyway.
INT. SILVER PINES – MASHA’S ROOM – NIGHT
Masha colors while Katya folds laundry. Jack knocks, notebook
in hand.
JACK
Chapter three is ready. Reader’s
choice.
MASHA
I choose Mama to read!
Katya takes the notebook. Jack sits on the floor as Katya
reads aloud.
KATYA (V.O.)
The snowman started to wonder...
maybe being warm wasn’t the worst
thing after all.
FADE OUT.
INT. TOWN HALL – DAY
A LOCAL IMMIGRATION CLINIC is set up in a corner office.
Katya waits in a plastic chair. Her folder in hand. Jack sits
beside her.
KATYA
You didn’t have to come.
JACK
I know.
She looks at him. Grateful.
INT. OFFICE – MOMENTS LATER
An IMMIGRATION ADVISOR (50s, kind but firm) scans her
paperwork.
ADVISOR
You’re almost there. We just need a
local sponsor to file a support
affidavit. Someone with steady
income. A citizen or permanent
resident.
KATYA
I... I understand.
ADVISOR
You have 30 days to submit.
Katya nods. But we can see her panic.
Genres:
["Drama","Family","Immigration"]
Ratings
Scene
28 -
Bravery and Vulnerability
INT. DINER – LATER
Jack and Katya sit in a booth, mugs of coffee between them.
She stares out the window.
KATYA
I can’t ask anyone here. I barely
know them.
JACK
What about your sister?
KATYA
In Poland. Her visa’s temporary.
JACK
Then ask me.
She turns.
KATYA
What?
JACK
I can help. Just say the word.
KATYA
You don’t even know what you’re
offering.
JACK
Doesn’t matter. I trust you. And
Masha. And whatever this is... it
matters.
KATYA
Jack...
JACK
No pressure. Just... let me help.
She looks at him, eyes softening.
KATYA
I’ll think about it.
FADE OUT.
INT. SILVER PINES – LIVING ROOM – LATER THAT NIGHT
Tina sips mulled wine while Masha dozes on the couch under a
blanket.
TINA
I thought I was coming to rescue
you. Turns out... you’re not even
miserable.
JACK
I'm still me. Just... slightly less
flammable.
TINA
(grins)
So what's her story?
JACK
You mean Katya?
TINA
I mean the woman whose eyes you now
write for. Don’t deny it — you’ve
got that "maybe love isn’t a scam"
look.
Jack shrugs, deflects.
JACK
She's complicated. Brave. And she
bakes. So, you know — triple
threat.
TINA
What about you? Are you brave?
Jack looks over at Masha, sleeping.
JACK
Working on it.
Genres:
["Drama","Romance"]
Ratings
Scene
29 -
Sweet Connections
INT. SILVER PINES – KITCHEN – NEXT MORNING
Masha and Tina decorate cookies. Jack enters to grab coffee.
MASHA
Jack! Tina says your book is
famous!
JACK
She lies a lot.
TINA
He’s just mad it didn’t come with a
tiara.
MASHA
You should write another one!
JACK
Working on it.
TINA
What he means is, he’s writing one
*because* of you.
Katya enters with paperwork in hand. Jack and Tina exchange a
look.
KATYA
I called the advisor. We’re
submitting the documents... and
Jack’s name.
Jack’s surprised — then quietly moved.
KATYA (CONT’D)
If that’s still okay.
JACK
More than okay.
FADE OUT.
INT. IMMIGRATION OFFICE – DAY
A small local office. Jack and Katya sit across from the
advisor again.
ADVISOR
This looks good. Sponsorship form’s
clean. We’ll submit by Monday.
KATYA
And after that?
ADVISOR
Could be weeks. Could be months.
But this is a strong case.
They both exhale. A moment of shared relief.
Genres:
["Drama","Romance"]
Ratings
Scene
30 -
A Night of Reflection and Connection
INT. SILVER PINES – JACK’S ROOM – NIGHT
Jack types with purpose now.
JACK (V.O.)
The snowman still hated Christmas.
But he no longer hated the fire. Or
the scarf. Or the girl who gave it
to him.
He scrolls back. Smiles. Then types:
JACK (V.O.)
Maybe hope wasn’t the enemy. Maybe
hope was home.
FADE OUT.
INT. SILVER PINES – LIVING ROOM – LATER
A fire crackles. Masha sits on the floor, teaching Tina a
Ukrainian clapping game. Katya watches from the kitchen
doorway.
Jack walks in with mugs of cocoa.
JACK
I made drinks. They may be
terrible.
TINA
He only burns things when
emotionally unstable.
KATYA
So... always?
They laugh. Jack hands her a mug, their fingers brush —
linger.
Jack opens his laptop. His inbox: a new email from MARA.
SUBJECT: Publisher Asking for Pages ASAP
Jack exhales, opens the doc. Types:
JACK (V.O.)
The snowman didn’t understand why
the scarf made him warm. He just
knew it did. And he didn’t want to
take it off.
INT. SILVER PINES – KITCHEN – SAME TIME
Katya stands over the sink, gazing out into the snowy dark.
Masha hums from the other room. She whispers, almost prayer-
like:
KATYA
Please let this work.
She turns out the light.
EXT. SMALL TOWN SQUARE – NEXT DAY
Masha pulls Jack toward a small Christmas fair.
MASHA
You promised! Five minutes!
JACK
I said I’d browse. I didn’t say I’d
participate in cheer.
They pass booths with local crafts. A group sings carols
nearby. Jack stiffens.
MASHA
You’re not melting yet, are you?
JACK
Just a little at the edges.
They reach a booth. A WOMAN sells hand-carved wooden
ornaments.
WOMAN
First one’s free — if you tell me
who it’s for.
Masha looks at Jack.
MASHA
He needs one. For his tree.
JACK
I don’t have a tree.
WOMAN
Then it’s even more important.
She hands him a small carving: a hedgehog. Jack stares.
JACK
His name’s Carl.
WOMAN
Of course it is.
Jack takes it. A quiet moment of surrender.
FADE OUT.
Genres:
["Drama","Romance","Family"]
Ratings
Scene
32 -
Snowy Arrivals and Unspoken Tensions
INT. SILVER PINES – LOBBY – MOMENTS LATER
Tina shakes off snow, dragging a suitcase and a duffel. Jack
helps her with it.
TINA You live like a monk now? No Wi-Fi, no takeout, no
civilization?
JACK
They have firewood and existential
dread. It’s charming.
TINA
(chuckling)
Well, I hope you’ve got room for
one more cynic with seasonal
baggage.
Masha tugs at Jack’s sleeve.
MASHA
Do you have more chapters?
JACK
I might.
Katya appears, eyes flicking between them.
KATYA
I’ll make up the guest room.
TINA
Only if I can bribe you with L.A.
chocolate croissants.
Katya smiles — the ice melting slightly.
INT. SILVER PINES – LIVING ROOM – LATER THAT NIGHT
Masha is asleep on the couch under a quilt. Jack, Katya, and
Tina sit nearby with mugs of cocoa. The fire burns low.
TINA
She lasted longer than I thought.
That sugar high had legs.
KATYA
I should carry her up.
JACK
Let her stay. She looks... safe
here.
A beat.
TINA
So — you gonna tell me what’s going
on?
JACK
What do you mean?
TINA
You’re smiling like a human being.
There’s a child asleep in the room,
and a woman across from you who
doesn’t loathe your existence. Who
are you, and what have you done
with my boss?
Jack smirks, shrugs.
JACK
I’m writing again.
TINA
God help us all.
KATYA
He’s writing a snowman story.
TINA
Of course he is.
JACK
It’s not for you.
TINA
It never is.
They all chuckle. The quiet settles again.
TINA (CONT’D)
Okay, in all seriousness... I’m
proud of you.
Jack meets her eyes. Gratitude, unspoken.
TINA (CONT’D)
Alright, I’m going to bed before I
start getting sentimental. G’night,
Katya.
KATYA
Goodnight.
TINA
Jack — don’t screw this up.
She exits. Katya and Jack sit in the glow of the firelight.
Silence, full of something new.
KATYA
You’re lucky to have her.
JACK
I know.
Katya looks at Masha. Then at Jack.
KATYA
This... all of this... it won’t
last. Even with the paperwork, it’s
never guaranteed.
JACK
I know. But I’m here anyway.
Katya looks away, hiding emotion.
FADE OUT.
Genres:
["Drama","Comedy"]
Ratings
Scene
33 -
Shifting Tides
INT. SILVER PINES – DINING ROOM – NIGHT
A fire crackles. Jack, Katya, Tina, and Masha sit at the
table finishing a simple dinner. There's warmth here — a
rough, found-family kind.
TINA
You realize you’ve written more in
two weeks than you did in the last
six months?
JACK
Don’t jinx it.
MASHA
He even does voices now.
TINA
Wait. Voices?
MASHA
There’s a snowman with a grumpy
pirate voice!
TINA
I have regrets I missed this.
Katya watches Jack laugh — really laugh — for the first time.
KATYA
He’s not the same man who checked
in.
TINA
Don’t tell him that. He’ll deny it.
Brooding’s part of his brand.
Jack raises an eyebrow, mock offense. Masha giggles.
MASHA
I like new Jack better.
JACK
So do I.
Beat.
TINA
So... are we gonna talk about the
form you’re maybe going to sign?
Katya stiffens.
KATYA
We don’t have to—
JACK
I offered.
TINA
I know. But is that offer coming
from Jack Harper, the man? Or Jack
Harper, the writer trying to fix
everything with a pen?
The room goes quiet.
Katya stands slowly, taking Masha’s plate.
KATYA
Excuse me.
She walks toward the kitchen. Jack follows with his eyes,
then stands too.
Genres:
["Drama","Comedy"]
Ratings
Scene
34 -
Unwelcome News
INT. SILVER PINES – DINING ROOM – NEXT NIGHT
The inn is quiet. Jack helps Katya dry dishes. Masha is
asleep.
A knock at the front door.
KATYA
It’s late…
She opens it. A MAN (50s, suited, corporate energy) stands in
the cold with a briefcase.
MAN
Katya Veselova?
KATYA
Yes?
MAN
I’m Thomas Blake. I'm with
Carradine Group. We’ve acquired the
lease to Silver Pines Inn.
JACK
Excuse me?
THOMAS
New ownership goes into effect
January 2nd. We’ll be renovating —
full rebrand. Unfortunately,
seasonal contracts won’t carry
over.
Katya freezes.
KATYA
You mean… I don’t have a job?
THOMAS
I’m afraid not. You should’ve
received a memo.
He hands her a folded letter. Nods, and leaves.
Katya closes the door slowly. Jack stares at her.
JACK
I thought the inn was family-run.
KATYA
So did I.
She opens the letter. Her hands shake.
JACK
Katya—
KATYA
I can’t lose this job. I lose the
job, I lose the visa. I lose
everything.
JACK
Then we don’t let that happen.
FADE OUT.
Genres:
["Drama"]
Ratings
Scene
35 -
Firelight Confessions
INT. SILVER PINES – COMMON ROOM – NIGHT
Tina sits with Jack by the fire, sipping cocoa.
TINA So... are you actually writing a children’s book? Or is
this your long con to sell greeting cards?
JACK
It’s a novella. Technically. With
themes.
TINA
Deep themes. Like scarves and
emotional repression?
JACK
Mostly snowmen and existential
dread.
Beat.
TINA
You look happy, Jack.
That lands. Jack looks into the fire.
JACK
I don’t know if that’s what this
is. But it feels... different.
TINA
That’s something.
She leans in, drops her voice.
TINA (CONT’D)
So what happens if she says yes?
JACK
Then I become a legal sponsor. Tied
to someone else’s fate.
TINA
No. I mean... what if she says yes
to you?
Jack’s face tightens. She clocks it.
TINA (CONT’D)
Ah. There it is. The fear. My old
friend.
Genres:
["Drama","Romance"]
Ratings
Scene
36 -
Fireside Decisions
INT. SILVER PINES – COMMON ROOM – NIGHT
The fire is low. Masha dozes in a chair wrapped in a blanket.
Jack, Katya, and Tina sip tea.
TINA
So. Sponsorship. Deadline. Love
triangle. Classic third act setup.
KATYA
There is no triangle.
TINA
That’s what you think.
Katya gives her a look. Tina raises her hands, innocent.
JACK
Can we focus? The inn is shutting
down, Katya’s out of a job, and
immigration wants everything
finalized in three weeks.
TINA
You still want to sponsor her?
JACK
I do.
Katya looks at him. It's real.
KATYA
Then we have to move fast. The
forms. The interview...
TINA
And he’ll need to prove financial
stability, remember?
Jack stiffens.
JACK
What are you saying?
TINA
I’m saying... you might need to
finish the book.
Silence.
JACK
That’s what this was all along,
wasn’t it? A setup.
TINA
I didn’t plan the inn sale. Or the
fact that you actually fell for
her. But yeah — you finish that
novella, we sell it fast, and you
become a viable sponsor.
KATYA
No. We’re not forcing anything.
JACK
She’s not. But maybe fate is.
Jack rises.
JACK (CONT’D)
I’m finishing the damn snowman.
FADE OUT.
Genres:
["Drama","Romance","Family"]
Ratings
Scene
37 -
A Night of Trust and Tenderness
INT. SILVER PINES – LIVING ROOM – NIGHT
Katya tucks Masha onto the couch with a blanket and cocoa.
Jack walks Tina to the kitchen.
TINA
You look like someone who’s either
in love or in a very weird cult.
JACK
It’s love. I think.
TINA
Took you long enough. What are you
going to do about the sponsor
thing?
JACK
She won’t ask. I offered.
TINA
Offer again. This time, make it
count.
INT. SILVER PINES – JACK’S ROOM – LATER
Jack sits at his laptop, eyes glazed over. He’s stuck.
Then: a knock.
Katya steps inside.
KATYA
She’s asleep. Sugar crash.
Jack smiles. Closes the laptop.
JACK
Everything okay?
KATYA
No. But... I think I’d like it to
be.
She steps closer. Hesitates.
KATYA (CONT’D)
If I say yes — to you helping... to
the sponsorship — it means I trust
you. That I’m putting everything,
everything, in your hands.
JACK
Then I’ll carry it carefully.
A long beat.
She leans in, kisses him — soft and real.
Then pulls back.
KATYA
You’re still not off the hook. That
snowman better get a happy ending.
She exits, leaving Jack stunned. Then:
He smiles.
Genres:
["Romance","Drama","Character Study"]
Ratings
Scene
38 -
Snowfall and Secrets
INT. JACK’S ROOM – LATER THAT NIGHT
He types:
JACK (V.O.)
The snowman didn’t melt. Not right
away. Because someone believed he
didn’t have to.
He keeps typing as snow falls outside his window.
FADE OUT.
EXT. SILVER PINES – PORCH – NIGHT
Later that night. Jack sits with Tina, each holding mugs of
tea.
TINA So... Katya. You finally met a human who got past the
firewall.
JACK
Don’t make it weird.
TINA
Too late. You in love with her or
just terrified?
JACK
Yes.
They sit for a beat. Snow falls quietly.
TINA
You gonna tell her?
JACK
I think I already did. Just not in
words.
Behind them, Katya appears at the door, Masha sleepy in her
arms. She gives Jack a soft, knowing smile.
Jack smiles back.
FADE OUT.
INT. SILVER PINES – LIVING ROOM – NIGHT
The fire crackles. Tina and Jack sit on the couch with mugs
of tea. Katya tucks Masha into bed upstairs.
TINA
So... what’s the plan, Romeo?
JACK
I offer to sponsor them, she tells
me she’ll think about it.
TINA
Classic rom-com deflection.
JACK
She’s scared. And smart. And I
can’t blame her.
TINA
She’ll come around. You just need
to do that thing where you’re
emotionally honest and not
sarcastic for like... ten minutes.
JACK
That’s physically painful for me.
Genres:
["Romance","Drama","Comedy"]
Ratings
Scene
39 -
A Letter from the Past
INT. SILVER PINES – KATYA’S ROOM – SAME TIME
Katya quietly opens her suitcase, looking for something.
She finds a worn envelope — postmarked from Ukraine. Inside,
a handwritten letter in Cyrillic.
She reads. Her hands tremble.
INT. SILVER PINES – LIVING ROOM – LATER
Katya enters, the letter in her hand. Jack stands.
KATYA
It’s from my husband’s parents.
JACK
...Oh?
KATYA
They’ve filed a custody inquiry.
Want Masha to live with them. Says
she’d be “safer” in Ukraine.
TINA
What? That’s—
KATYA
It’s not official yet. But they’re
contacting social services here.
TINA
Can they do that?
KATYA
If they prove I’m unstable —
financially or emotionally — they
can try.
Jack clenches his jaw.
JACK
Then we fight it. You’re not alone.
Katya looks down. Breathes.
KATYA
Jack... this isn’t your burden.
JACK
It is if I say it is.
FADE OUT.
Genres:
["Drama"]
Ratings
Scene
40 -
Torn Between Dreams and Reality
INT. JACK’S ROOM – NEXT MORNING
Jack stares at his laptop.
EMAIL FROM: MARA
SUBJECT: Re: Snowman Story
“Love it. But they want to make it broader. Tone down the war
stuff. Remove the immigrant angle. Just keep it cute and
festive.”
He stares at the screen, torn.
INT. SILVER PINES – DINING ROOM – LATER
Katya sets the table. Jack walks in with his laptop.
JACK
Publisher wants the snowman to
be... simpler. Not sad. Not real.
KATYA
But that’s the whole point.
JACK
Exactly.
KATYA
What will you do?
JACK
Not sure. Depends if I’m writing to
say something — or just selling it.
She gives him a small nod. It matters.
EXT. SMALL TOWN – LEGAL AID OFFICE – DAY
Katya exits a modest building, holding a stack of paperwork.
Her face is pale.
Jack waits nearby.
KATYA
They said the custody petition is
real. Hearing’s in three weeks.
JACK
Then I’m testifying. I’ll say
whatever they need.
KATYA
You shouldn’t be dragged into this.
JACK
Too late. I’m already in it.
He takes her hand.
INT. SILVER PINES – KITCHEN – LATER THAT NIGHT
Tina sips cocoa, legs up on the bench. Jack paces.
TINA
So let me get this straight. You’re
ghostwriting a snowman redemption
arc, falling for a Ukrainian single
mom, AND casually volunteering to
sponsor her immigration?
JACK
It’s not like that.
INT. SILVER PINES – KATYA’S ROOM – LATER
Katya lies awake, staring at the ceiling. Masha sleeps beside
her, curled under the blanket.
Her phone buzzes softly. A new message.
She checks it — a reply from her cousin in Ukraine.
ON SCREEN: “They are serious. Already spoke with a lawyer. Be
careful.”
Katya puts the phone down and slips out of bed.
Genres:
["Drama","Romance"]
Ratings
Scene
41 -
Fragile Connections
INT. SILVER PINES – COMMON ROOM – MOMENTS LATER
Jack sits by the fireplace, nursing a coffee. Katya enters,
wrapped in a cardigan.
KATYA
Couldn’t sleep?
JACK
Turns out existential dread isn’t
great for REM cycles.
She smiles faintly. Sits beside him.
KATYA
They’re not bluffing, Jack. His
parents... they want to raise her.
JACK
In a war zone?
KATYA
They think family is more important
than safety. And I have no legal
anchor here. Not yet.
JACK
I could be that anchor. Sponsor.
Witness. Whatever it takes.
She studies him.
KATYA
You barely know us.
JACK
I know what it’s like to be ripped
away from something good.
Beat.
JACK (CONT’D)
I don’t want that for her. Or for
you.
Katya blinks back tears. This time, she doesn’t hide it.
KATYA
I never planned for this... any of
this. And now it all feels so
fragile.
JACK
Maybe that’s what makes it worth
protecting.
He places a hand gently over hers. She lets it stay.
FADE OUT.
Genres:
["Drama"]
Ratings
Scene
42 -
Fractured Dreams and Tender Reassurances
INT. JACK’S ROOM – NEXT MORNING
Jack wakes to another email — subject line in all caps:
**FROM: MARA — “PRODUCER INTEREST. FAST RESPONSE NEEDED.”**
He clicks.
MARA (V.O.)
Jack — big news. A streamer loves
the *Snowman* concept. They’ll
greenlight a holiday short if we
deliver in 72 hours. But... they
need the tone fixed. “Family-
friendly, no politics, no
immigration undertone.” Think
*Elf*, not *The Pianist.*
Jack closes the laptop. Frustrated.
He looks at Masha’s drawing still pinned on the wall — “Me,
Mama, Jack.” Under it: a snowman with a sad face and tiny
heart.
Beat.
INT. SILVER PINES – MASHA’S ROOM – NIGHT
Masha sits by the window, coloring quietly. Katya enters,
holding a soft blanket.
KATYA
Bedtime.
MASHA
If I go to sleep... will I wake up
somewhere else?
Katya freezes.
KATYA
Why would you say that?
MASHA
I heard you and Mr. Jack. About the
court. And the papers.
KATYA
Sweetheart...
She kneels beside her daughter.
KATYA (CONT’D)
No one’s taking you from me. No
one.
MASHA
What if they try?
KATYA
Then we fight. Together. And Mr.
Jack’s helping us too.
Masha nods slowly, then curls into her mother’s arms.
MASHA
I like it here.
KATYA
Me too.
She brushes a lock of hair from Masha’s forehead. Her eyes
shimmer but don’t spill.
FADE OUT.
Genres:
["Drama","Family"]
Ratings
Scene
43 -
A Christmas Surprise
INT. SILVER PINES – DINING ROOM – LATER
Tina scrolls her phone while Katya and Jack set the table.
TINA
So I just read the streamer’s
*last* big Christmas hit.
(MORE)
TINA (CONT’D)
It’s about a goat that thinks it’s
Santa.
JACK
Groundbreaking.
TINA
You know what they called it?
*Bleat Navidad.*
Jack groans. Katya stifles a laugh.
JACK
My career’s about to be sponsored
by goat puns.
TINA
Unless you write what matters.
JACK
They’ll walk.
TINA
Then let them. You finally wrote
something with heart. Why rip that
out now?
He considers this. Then turns to Katya.
JACK
You okay if the world sees a
version of us? Not polished. Not
clean. Just real.
KATYA
If it helps someone else not feel
so alone... then yes.
Jack nods, decision made.
FADE OUT.
TINA
Of course not. It’s much messier.
But you’re glowing, so... good for
you.
JACK
This isn't a glow. It’s mild
hypothermia and emotional risk.
TINA
Same thing.
Katya enters with fresh tea. Tina shifts.
TINA (CONT’D)
I’m gonna crash. But seriously,
Katya — he’s the good kind of
idiot.
Katya smiles, a little embarrassed. Tina heads off.
A beat of silence between Jack and Katya.
KATYA
She’s right, isn’t she?
JACK
Only about the idiot part.
She steps closer.
KATYA
Thank you. For everything. But I
still haven’t said yes.
JACK
I know. But I hope you do.
She leans in — not quite a kiss — but something shifts. Then—
KNOCK KNOCK.
Jack opens the door.
A TALL, WELL-DRESSED MAN stands on the porch.
MAN
Katya Volkov?
Katya freezes.
KATYA
Yes?
MAN
I’m Andrei. I represent your late
husband’s parents. I’m here
regarding custody of Masha.
Jack’s hand tightens on the door.
JACK
Excuse me?
ANDREI
They’ve filed for custodial
consideration. Under Ukrainian law,
next-of-kin rights extend to
surviving grandparents. If you
intend to stay in the U.S., they
plan to seek full custody.
Katya goes pale.
KATYA
They can’t—
ANDREI
They can. And they will.
He hands over a legal envelope.
ANDREI (CONT’D)
Merry Christmas.
He turns and walks away.
Jack and Katya stand frozen, the snow falling harder now.
FADE OUT.
Genres:
["Drama","Romance"]
Ratings
Scene
44 -
Custody and Commitment
INT. SILVER PINES – DINING ROOM – LATER THAT NIGHT
The table is set with late-night snacks and cocoa. Masha,
warm in new pajamas, curls up beside Jack. Tina sips wine.
TINA
So. Fill me in. Immigration drama,
mysterious visitors, and now… light
cuddling?
KATYA
Jack offered to be our sponsor. I
haven’t said yes yet.
TINA
(raises eyebrows)
Big move. Noble. Stupid. Possibly
both.
JACK
She’s not wrong.
Katya gently lifts a small envelope from her sweater pocket.
KATYA
Andrei — my husband’s cousin —
returned this today. It’s from his
parents. In Ukraine. They want
Masha. Full custody.
TINA
Wait... what?
KATYA
They claim my decision to stay in
the U.S. is “destabilizing.”
They’ve filed an intent notice with
the Ministry of Family Affairs.
JACK
Can they do that?
KATYA
I don’t know. But they’re trying.
Jack stiffens. His protective instincts flare.
JACK
They won’t take her.
KATYA
We don’t get to decide that.
TINA
Then we figure it out. File the
right paperwork. Lawyer up if we
need to. This isn’t over.
MASHA
(overhearing)
Am I going away?
They all freeze. Katya kneels beside her.
KATYA
No, my heart. No one is going
anywhere.
MASHA
You promise?
KATYA
I promise.
She hugs her tight. Jack watches — and quietly makes a
decision.
INT. SILVER PINES – JACK’S ROOM – NIGHT
Jack sits at his laptop, Mara on speakerphone. A half-empty
mug of cocoa nearby.
MARA (V.O.)
I’m just saying — Hallmark sells.
Ukraine doesn’t.
JACK
But it’s not just about Ukraine.
It’s about grief. Loss. Fighting
for hope.
MARA (V.O.)
Then write a metaphor. Make the
snowman sad. Don’t say the word
“refugee.”
JACK
You want a holiday brand. I want to
tell the truth.
MARA (V.O.)
Jack... they’ll walk if you don’t
compromise.
Jack stares at the manuscript on his screen. He hovers over
DELETE. But doesn’t click.
JACK
Let them.
Beat of silence.
MARA (V.O.)
You sure?
JACK
For the first time in a long
time... yeah.
He closes the laptop.
FADE OUT.
NEW SCENE
Genres:
["Drama","Family","Romance"]
Ratings
Scene
45 -
Morning Revelations
INT. SILVER PINES – DINING ROOM – EARLY MORNING
The inn is quiet. Snow falls outside the windows. Katya
tiptoes in with a blanket draped around her shoulders.
She finds Jack at the table, coffee steaming, eyes red like
he didn’t sleep.
Katya hesitates, sensing something’s shifted.
KATYA
You okay?
JACK
Yeah. No.
(pause)
I turned it down. The book deal.
KATYA
You what?
JACK
They wanted something cute. Empty.
No weight. I couldn’t do it.
KATYA
That was real money, wasn’t it?
JACK
Real enough to matter. But not
enough to matter more than this.
He pushes the printed manuscript toward her — the full
snowman story.
JACK (CONT’D)
This is yours. Masha’s. It belongs
to what we’ve all lived. Even the
hard parts.
Katya doesn’t touch it yet. She looks at him, searching.
KATYA
You’re not who I thought you were.
JACK
Most days, neither am I.
KATYA
That’s not a bad thing.
A long moment between them.
MASHA (O.S.)
Can I have cocoa for breakfast?
They both turn. Masha stands in the doorway, holding her
stuffed penguin. She looks sleepy, adorable, and completely
unaware of the weight in the room.
KATYA
If Jack says yes.
JACK
Cocoa it is.
MASHA
With the tiny marshmallows?
JACK
Obviously.
Katya watches him — not just a man helping, but someone
becoming family.
FADE OUT.
Genres:
["Drama","Family"]
Ratings
Scene
46 -
Tensions and Revelations at Silver Pines
INT. JACK’S ROOM – LATER THAT NIGHT
Jack is on the phone. Quiet. Steady.
JACK
Hey, Mara. I need a favor.
Immigration lawyer, private —
someone who owes you.
(beat)
Yeah. It’s important.
He hangs up. Then looks to Carl the festive hedgehog, now
wearing a scarf Masha made out of yarn.
JACK (CONT’D)
You better be good luck, war
criminal.
FADE OUT.
INT. SILVER PINES – COMMON ROOM – LATER THAT NIGHT
A small reunion. Tina lounges on the couch with cocoa. Jack
and Katya sit nearby, still absorbing the surprise.
TINA
(sipping)
Okay, this inn is like a Hallmark
movie exploded. I love it.
JACK
You hate Hallmark movies.
TINA
Exactly. That’s how I know I’m in
trouble.
Katya chuckles. Masha is curled up asleep beside her.
KATYA
You came a long way just to check
on your boss.
TINA
Please. I came for emotional
blackmail and sugar cookies.
Beat.
TINA (CONT’D)
Also... your agent emailed me.
There’s real traction on your
snowman story. They want a meeting.
Jack stiffens.
JACK
When?
TINA
Couple days. In L.A. In person.
A beat.
TINA (CONT’D)
You okay?
JACK
Yeah. Just... timing.
Katya watches him. His walls are creeping back up.
FADE OUT.
Genres:
["Drama","Romance"]
Ratings
Scene
47 -
Custody Fears and Unwavering Support
INT. SILVER PINES – DINING ROOM – LATE NIGHT
Katya and Jack tuck Masha into a blanket on the couch. Tina
pours wine for the adults.
TINA
She’s out cold. Sugar crash,
probably. Or emotional overload.
Kid’s resilient.
Katya nods, quiet. Jack watches her, sensing something
deeper.
KATYA
There’s something I didn’t tell
you. Both of you.
Jack and Tina exchange a look.
KATYA (CONT’D)
Two days ago, I got a call... from
my late husband’s parents. In
Donetsk. They want custody of
Masha.
JACK
What?
KATYA
They’re filing paperwork.
International custody petition. I
didn’t even know they were still
alive.
TINA
Can they do that?
KATYA
They can try. They claim we fled
illegally. That she belongs with
family.
JACK
You are her family.
Katya looks down at her hands — clenched in her lap.
KATYA
They have money. Connections. I
have a kind stranger offering to
sponsor me and a storybook job that
doesn’t exist yet.
She gets up, suddenly restless.
KATYA (CONT’D)
And now I’ve put you in the middle
of it.
Jack rises too, stepping into her space.
JACK
You didn’t. I walked in, remember?
Beat.
JACK (CONT’D)
We’ll fight this. Whatever it
takes.
Katya’s breath catches. It’s the first time someone said we
and meant it.
FADE OUT.
Genres:
["Drama"]
Ratings
Scene
48 -
Warmth and Distance
INT. SILVER PINES – COMMON ROOM – NIGHT
Tina sips cocoa on the couch while Masha builds a lopsided
puzzle on the rug. Jack stokes the fire. Katya returns with
blankets.
TINA
This place is Hallmark in flannel.
I half expect a reindeer to walk
through that door with a cookie
tray.
JACK
Don’t jinx it. We’re already one
talking snowman short of a lawsuit.
Katya sits. Tina studies the two of them — long beat.
TINA
(softly)
Okay, so... what did I miss?
Jack meets Katya’s eyes. Something unspoken passes between
them.
KATYA
Hope. Maybe.
MASHA
And pie! You missed pie.
INT. SILVER PINES – COMMON ROOM – NIGHT
Tina sips cocoa on the couch while Masha builds a lopsided
puzzle on the rug. Jack stokes the fire. Katya returns with
blankets.
TINA
This place is Hallmark in flannel.
I half expect a reindeer to walk
through that door with a cookie
tray.
JACK
Don’t jinx it. We’re already one
talking snowman short of a lawsuit.
Katya sits. Tina studies the two of them — long beat.
TINA
(softly)
Okay, so... what did I miss?
Jack meets Katya’s eyes. Something unspoken passes between
them.
KATYA
Hope. Maybe.
MASHA
And pie! You missed pie.
They all laugh — a real one. The fire pops. Tina leans back
and watches Jack with new eyes.
TINA
You’re different.
JACK
I’m colder. Possibly sweeter.
TINA
I meant it. You seem... lighter.
JACK
Don’t ruin it.
MASHA
He told a story! About a snowman
who hates Christmas!
TINA
Of course he did.
Katya watches the exchange. Her smile lingers, but her eyes
show something distant. Heavy.
Genres:
["Drama","Romance","Comedy"]
Ratings
Scene
49 -
Custody Concerns
INT. TOWN HALL – HEARING ROOM – DAY
A modest chamber. American and California flags. A social
services representative, MS. LEONARD (50s, sharp but fair),
sits at a desk across from Katya.
Jack waits nearby, trying not to look nervous. Masha draws
quietly with crayons.
MS. LEONARD
We’ve received a formal inquiry
from your late husband’s parents.
Ukrainian authorities confirmed the
petition. It's not a guarantee of
action, but it's serious.
KATYA
They’ve never met Masha. They only
want her now out of grief... or
guilt.
MS. LEONARD
Be that as it may, their case
hinges on your stability here.
Financial, emotional, legal status.
Jack stands.
JACK
Then hear me. I’m offering
sponsorship. Full support —
housing, references, whatever she
needs.
Ms. Leonard looks at him carefully.
MS. LEONARD
And your relationship to Ms.
Ivanenko?
Jack glances at Katya, then back.
JACK
Friend. Resident. Witness to the
fact that she’s a remarkable
mother.
MS. LEONARD
You realize this adds weight to her
file, but also scrutiny to you. If
your history doesn’t check out—
JACK
It will.
She makes a note. Katya watches him — eyes filled with
gratitude, but also fear.
MS. LEONARD
This doesn’t end here. There will
be home visits. Interviews. It’s
not fast.
KATYA
We’ll be ready.
Masha looks up.
MASHA
Are we in trouble?
Katya kneels, gently strokes her daughter’s hair.
KATYA
No, sweet one. We’re just showing
people how much we love each other.
FADE OUT.
Genres:
["Drama"]
Ratings
Scene
50 -
Silent Struggles
EXT. SILVER PINES – PORCH – EVENING
Jack sits with a mug of coffee, lost in thought. Snow falls
lightly. The porch light glows.
Footsteps crunch.
TINA
Thought I’d find you brooding.
She hands him a manila envelope.
TINA (CONT’D)
I made some calls. Old clients.
People you forgot you helped.
Pulled together letters of
character reference for Katya. And
you.
Jack flips through them — glowing testimonials, former
collaborators, even an old foster parent.
JACK
How did you—?
TINA
You forget who made your career
happen?
Jack can’t speak. He just looks at the pages.
TINA (CONT’D)
You’re not a loner, Jack. You just
convinced yourself you were.
She heads back inside.
Jack stares out at the snow — softer now. Something inside
him shifts.
INT. SILVER PINES – KATYA’S ROOM – LATER THAT NIGHT
Katya opens her drawer and takes out an envelope. Foreign
stamps. Ukrainian handwriting.
She unfolds a letter. Reads silently. Her hand trembles
slightly.
KATYA (V.O.)
"My dear Katya, we hope you and
Masha are safe. But she is our
granddaughter. This separation
cannot continue..."
She stops. Her jaw clenches. She folds the letter and places
it back in the envelope, then slides it deep into her
suitcase.
Off her troubled face—
INT. SILVER PINES – JACK’S ROOM – SAME NIGHT
Jack scribbles in his notebook, but something’s off. He looks
up toward the wall. Listens.
Nothing. No voices. No Masha laughter. No quiet rustle from
Katya’s room.
He stands, walks to his door. Listens again.
INT. SILVER PINES – HALLWAY – MOMENTS LATER
Jack passes quietly. Then pauses.
Through Katya’s slightly open door, he sees her sitting on
the bed, back turned.
Her shoulders shake.
He starts to knock — but doesn’t.
Just watches for a moment. Then walks away.
Genres:
["Drama"]
Ratings
Scene
51 -
A Moment of Truce
INT. KITCHEN – MOMENTS LATER
Jack pours two mugs of tea. Breathes in. Exhales.
He walks back down the hall.
INT. KATYA’S ROOM – MOMENTS LATER
A knock. Katya wipes her face, fast.
KATYA
Yes?
JACK (O.S.)
Truce offering. Caffeine-free.
She opens the door. Jack holds up the mugs.
JACK (CONT’D)
I come in peace. With chamomile.
She hesitates... then steps aside. He enters.
INT. KATYA’S ROOM – CONTINUOUS
They sit at the edge of the bed. Tea between them.
JACK
Want to talk about it?
KATYA
No.
JACK
Okay.
Beat.
KATYA
Masha’s grandparents. His parents.
They wrote. They want her.
Jack doesn’t move. Just listens.
KATYA (CONT’D)
They say she’s their blood. Their
last link to him. They think I’m
hiding her. That I’m selfish.
JACK
You’re her mother.
KATYA
But they’re right. She’s all I have
left of him. And I don’t know
what’s best anymore.
Beat.
JACK
You are. You’re what’s best. I’ve
seen it.
She looks at him — lost, tired, raw.
KATYA
Why are you here, Jack?
JACK
Because I was stuck. And now I’m...
not. Because I saw a snow-covered
inn and thought it would be empty —
but it wasn’t.
(beat)
Because I didn’t believe in stories
anymore. Until you.
Her eyes well again — but she smiles.
KATYA
You’re terrible at chamomile
diplomacy.
JACK
But not at showing up.
They sit in silence. Not romantic. Not platitudes. Just real.
KATYA
I don’t want to lose her.
JACK
Then don’t.
He slides the notebook toward her.
JACK (CONT’D)
Finish the story with me.
KATYA
About the snowman?
JACK
About the girl who saw past him.
She nods. And finally — a tiny bit of weight lifts.
Genres:
["Drama","Romance"]
Ratings
Scene
52 -
Morning Tensions
INT. SILVER PINES – KITCHEN – EARLY MORNING
Katya stirs oatmeal. Her face is drawn — tired but composed.
Masha sleepily walks in, rubbing her eyes.
MASHA
Did the snowman get warm yet?
KATYA
He’s thinking about it.
MASHA
Good. Everyone should be warm.
Katya kisses her forehead, but her eyes drift toward her
phone, screen dark.
INT. SILVER PINES – JACK’S ROOM – SAME TIME
Jack reads an email. Frowns.
TINA (V.O.)
“Big news. A streamer loved the
idea for the snowman novella. They
want to talk film rights. Tomorrow.
L.A. Can you be here?”
He looks over at Carl the hedgehog. Sighs.
INT. SILVER PINES – COMMON ROOM – LATER
Tina, now in full “fix mode,” types rapidly on her laptop.
TINA
So, we have 12 days left to submit
Katya’s sponsorship docs. Which is
tight, but not impossible.
JACK
I thought we were waiting for her
to decide.
TINA
Oh, bless your passive little
heart.
She slams the laptop shut.
TINA (CONT’D)
You want to help her? Then help
her. And if she says no, fine. But
don’t sit there waiting for the
perfect emotional cue like some
tortured novel character.
JACK
That was weirdly inspiring.
TINA
I contain multitudes.
Genres:
["Drama","Relationship"]
Ratings
Scene
53 -
Threats and Tenderness
INT. SILVER PINES – OFFICE – LATER THAT DAY
Katya sits across from a LANDLINE PHONE on speaker. A WOMAN’S
VOICE — translated from Ukrainian.
WOMAN (V.O.)
You can’t keep her there forever,
Katya. We will file papers. We have
rights.
KATYA
She’s safe here. With me.
WOMAN (V.O.)
Then prove it. Legally.
Katya sits frozen. Jack enters. Sees the look on her face.
JACK
Was that—
KATYA
His mother. They’re serious.
She turns away, breathing hard. Jack steps closer.
JACK
Then let’s be more serious.
NT. SILVER PINES – KATYA’S ROOM – NIGHT
Katya rifles through a drawer. Pulls out old documents, a
small photograph — her husband in uniform, holding baby
Masha.
She stares at it for a long beat, then wipes her eyes and
folds the photo back into the papers.
A knock.
JACK (O.S.)
It’s just me.
KATYA
Come in.
Jack enters, holding a folder.
JACK
I filled out the affidavit.
Sponsorship forms. Taxes. All of
it.
(beat)
It’s not pressure. It’s support.
You don’t have to be alone in this.
She takes the folder. Opens it. Her hand trembles slightly.
KATYA
Thank you. For not... making me
ask.
JACK
You already did. Just not with
words.
A long look between them. She leans forward. He meets her
halfway.
They kiss — soft, real, aching.
But before it deepens—
MASHA (O.S.)
Mama, I can’t find my bear!
They break apart, breathless.
KATYA
I should—
JACK
Of course.
She leaves. Jack stays in place, stunned by what almost
happened — and what did.
Genres:
["Drama"]
Ratings
Scene
54 -
Quiet Resolutions
INT. SILVER PINES – JACK’S ROOM – LATER THAT NIGHT
Jack stares at the snowman story on screen. He finishes a
line, exhales.
JACK (V.O.)
Maybe the snowman didn’t melt.
Maybe he thawed. Slowly. But enough
to feel something again.
He presses save. Then closes the laptop.
A long pause.
Then he opens his email and starts a reply to the film
producer.
Subject: Re: Snowman Project — Film Discussion
Body:
“Can’t make L.A. tomorrow. I’m staying where the snow is
real.”
He clicks send.
FADE OUT.
INT. SILVER PINES – DINING ROOM – EARLY MORNING
The place is quiet. Light snow falls outside.
Jack sits alone, coffee untouched, rereading the sponsorship
paperwork. He flips to the final signature page — hesitates —
then signs.
A sound behind him. It’s Katya, already dressed, a packed
envelope in hand.
KATYA
I’m going to overnight it. The
sponsor form.
JACK
Good.
She looks at him — a little stunned. A little grateful.
KATYA
I told Masha. About the hearing.
About you sponsoring us.
JACK
How’d she take it?
KATYA
She made you a thank-you card. And
asked if it means we’re a family
now.
Jack blinks. A beat.
JACK
What did you tell her?
KATYA
That family isn’t always blood.
Sometimes, it’s who shows up.
She places the envelope in her bag. A quiet beat between
them.
JACK
What if they still say no?
KATYA
Then we figure it out. Like we
always do.
Genres:
["Drama","Romance"]
Ratings
Scene
55 -
Threads of Hope
INT. SILVER PINES – MASHA’S ROOM – MORNING
Masha colors furiously — a Christmas tree, a house, stick
figures: her, Katya... and Jack. All smiling.
Tina watches from the doorway, wiping a quiet tear.
TINA
That’s a good drawing.
MASHA
It’s our forever house.
TINA
I hope you get to stay in it.
EXT. POST OFFICE – LATER
Katya drops the envelope into the overnight bin.
KATYA (V.O.)
Sometimes hope is a letter in a
box.
And all you can do is wait.
INT. TOWN LIBRARY – LATE AFTERNOON
Jack helps Masha and other kids build paper snowflakes.
MASHA
My snowman doesn’t melt. He just
moves to a colder place.
JACK
That’s called adaptation.
LIBRARIAN
That’s called poetry.
The librarian hands Jack a flyer.
LIBRARIAN (CONT’D)
Holiday open mic. One week. You
should read the snowman story.
JACK
I don’t read in public.
MASHA
You read to me!
JACK
That was different. You’re short
and nonjudgmental.
She grins. He pockets the flyer.
Genres:
["Drama","Family","Holiday"]
Ratings
Scene
56 -
A Night of Christmas Cheer
INT. SILVER PINES – COMMON ROOM – NIGHT
Jack and Katya decorate the world’s most minimal Christmas
tree — one string of lights, a few hand-made ornaments,
Masha’s drawings taped like garland.
JACK
Still not sure I believe in
Christmas.
KATYA
Me either. But I believe in showing
up.
JACK
Even if it hurts?
KATYA
Especially then.
A soft kiss. Real, unafraid this time.
INT. SILVER PINES – KITCHEN – LATER
Tina sneaks a gingerbread cookie. Masha catches her.
MASHA
That was Santa’s!
TINA
He told me to test it for poison.
MASHA
Did he?
TINA
And also to taste the frosting. You
know. For science.
Katya enters, smiling at the sight. Jack follows, dusting
snow off his shoulders.
KATYA
Everything okay?
JACK
Walked past the town square. They
lit the big tree. And someone was
playing carols on a violin. It
was... kind of perfect.
TINA
That’s it. He’s gone full
Christmas. Someone alert the media.
JACK
It was a moment. That’s all.
MASHA
Can we have cider?
JACK
You’re on a sugar high already.
MASHA
One more cup won’t hurt.
KATYA
Famous last words.
Genres:
["Drama","Romance","Family"]
Ratings
Scene
57 -
A Snowy Gift Exchange
INT. SILVER PINES – JACK'S ROOM – NIGHT
Jack opens his laptop. Onscreen: the nearly complete snowman
story.
JACK (V.O.)
The snowman didn’t believe in happy
endings. But he liked being wrong.
He saves it. Folds the laptop shut.
He looks over at Carl the hedgehog, now wearing a paper crown
made by Masha.
JACK
Don’t look so smug.
INT. SILVER PINES – LIVING ROOM – NEXT MORNING
Pine-scented candles flicker. A fire crackles. The group
exchanges simple gifts — a book, a scarf, a drawing.
Jack unwraps something from Masha: a snow globe with a tiny
cabin inside.
MASHA
It reminded me of here. And you.
JACK
It’s perfect.
He turns the globe. Snow flurries.
Katya opens her gift: a new apron, hand-stitched with her
name.
TINA
Jack picked the color.
KATYA
Blue?
JACK
Like your eyes.
Everyone freezes. Jack realizes what he said.
JACK (CONT’D)
...and your sweater.
They laugh. Katya doesn’t look away.
Genres:
["Drama","Romance","Family"]
Ratings
Scene
58 -
A New Beginning
INT. IMMIGRATION CLINIC – DAY
Katya hands over the final documents. Jack stands behind her.
CLERK
All set. We’ll send confirmation
soon.
KATYA
That’s it?
CLERK
That’s it.
INT. SILVER PINES – PORCH – NIGHT
Fresh snow falls. Jack and Katya sit on the porch swing, a
blanket over their legs.
JACK
Do you ever think about what’s
next?
KATYA
All the time.
JACK
Me too.
Beat.
JACK (CONT’D)
I think... I want to stay. For
good.
KATYA
You sure?
JACK
I’ve never been more sure of
anything.
MASHA (O.S.)
Are you going to kiss again?
Because I need to cover my eyes.
They laugh. Jack leans over, whispers:
JACK
Every story deserves a happy
ending.
They kiss.
FADE OUT.
Genres:
["Romance","Drama"]
Ratings
Scene
59 -
A Year of Joy at Silver Pines Inn
INT. SILVER PINES – PORCH – NIGHT
Fresh snow falls. Jack and Katya sit on the porch swing, a
blanket over their legs.
JACK
Do you ever think about what’s
next?
KATYA
All the time.
JACK
Me too.
JACK (CONT’D)
I think... I want to stay. For
good.
KATYA
You sure?
JACK
I’ve never been more sure of
anything.
MASHA (O.S.)
Are you going to kiss again?
Because I need to cover my eyes.
They laugh. Jack leans over, whispers:
JACK
Every story deserves a happy
ending.
They kiss.
FADE OUT.
EXT. SILVER PINES – ONE YEAR LATER – DAY
A snow-covered sign:
"Silver Pines Inn – Peace, Privacy, and Plenty of Pie"
A new subtitle below it:
"Home of the Snowman Who Hated Christmas"
INT. SILVER PINES – DINING ROOM – DAY
Tina hangs a framed article on the wall:
“Screenwriter Jack Harper Reinvents Holiday Spirit with Indie
Bestseller”
She steps back, admiring the mini reading nook now named:
“Carl’s Corner” — complete with a plush festive hedgehog.
INT. SILVER PINES – KITCHEN – CONTINUOUS
Katya rolls out dough. Jack sneaks a piece.
She playfully slaps his hand away — then pulls him into a
floury kiss.
INT. SILVER PINES – MASHA’S ROOM – LATER
Masha reads her own version of the snowman story aloud to a
group of younger kids.
Her drawing of “Jack, Mama, Me” now hangs proudly above her
bed — the tree bigger, the smiles bolder.
Genres:
["Romance","Family","Drama"]
Ratings
Scene
60 -
A Heartwarming Christmas Gathering
EXT. TOWN SQUARE – EVENING
Carolers sing. Children spin under twinkle lights. Jack,
Katya, and Masha walk hand in hand.
Masha tosses a snowball — it hits Jack square in the chest.
MASHA
Bullseye!
JACK
You’re ruthless.
KATYA
She gets it from me.
They laugh — a new family in full.
Jack looks around — the lights, the joy, the snow.
JACK (V.O.)
Turns out, Christmas isn’t about
pretending things don’t hurt.
It’s about choosing to love anyway.
FADE OUT.
EXT. SMALL TOWN PARK – DUSK – A FEW DAYS LATER
Fresh snow blankets the ground. A small group gathers near a
gazebo: neighbors, Tina, Katya, Masha, Jack.
It’s impromptu — nothing flashy. Just candles, mittens, and
community.
Masha stands at a mic, nervous but brave. She holds Jack’s
notebook.
MASHA
This is from my friend Jack. He
said I could read it.
She begins — the ending of The Snowman Who Hated Christmas.
MASHA (CONT’D)
“…And the snowman finally realized,
it wasn’t about the lights or the
music. It was about who stood
beside you in the cold.”
People applaud softly. Jack watches — not hiding, just...
present.
Katya links her arm with his.
KATYA
We made it.
JACK
No. We’re making it.
Masha runs over, beaming. Jack lifts her up in one arm, Katya
wraps around them both.
The town begins to sing — not polished, just human.