When Love Blooms (2021) Movie Script

Hi! What's in the macchiato?
Espresso and milk.
Oh, that's way too much
caffeine for me
for the afternoon.
How about the latte?
Espresso and milk.
Hmm. How about the flat white?
They're basically
all the same thing.
OK. I will have
the peppermint cold brew.
No, uh,
a butterscotch cappuccino.
No, no, uh,
the iced unicorn matcha.
You know what?
I'll just have, uh,
the oat milk brle latte.
Actually, I'll...
I'll have a, uh...
cup of hot water, please.
At least it won't
keep me up tonight.
Could have used
a bit of milk, though.
Heads up!
Watch it, Steph!
Sorry, Ann. Um,
can you toss it back?
- I don't know.
- Oh, come on!
What's the worst
that can happen?
Are you kidding?
We're risk analysts.
I could tell you precisely
what might go wrong.
Let's say I toss it back.
But, without a direct
line of vision,
plus my notoriously bad aim,
there's a 60% chance that I hit
your "don't kiss me,
I'm a risk analyst" coffee mug,
spilling it
all over your desktop
and ruining an entire day's
worth of work.
Plus there's a 19% chance
of residual splashback
landing on your new outfit,
ruining it for your date
whom I met
at the Christmas party,
and I very much want to like me.
Well, you are good at this.
Uh, so toss it back?
Did you not hear
a word I just said?
Come on! It'll be fun.
LeBron!
Ann...
A moment?
Oh! My coffee mug.
I was going to,
uh, recycle that.
Ann, there's something
I need to talk to you about.
OK, I'm not sure
I like where this is going.
You've been with us
for a while now.
Six years, 8 months,
13 days. Who's counting?
A position is opening up in
our international department.
Oh!
- You don't say!
- Yep!
We're looking for someone,
a real star,
to get out there and interface
with our high-value
global clients.
OK. Cool. No biggie.
So, do you think Steph
will take the job?
Steph...
You've been working together
for a while.
Do you think she's a good fit?
Yeah, Steph, she's...
She's great.
I mean, I once saw her get into
a fight with the water cooler,
and the water cooler won, but...
Are you... are you sure
you... you want Steph
to be the face
of Managed Risk Services?
Well, is there anyone
you think would be better?
Not off the top of my head.
In that case, I'll generate
a list of candidates.
HR wants a decision
by the end of the week.
I'll shoot you something
to look over ASAP.
Cool! Uh, I'm...
I'm glad I could help.
So dependable.
Best second in command
a guy could ask for.
Oh, uh, and Ann?
Thanks for being
such a team player!
What kind of foreign clients
are we talking about?
We have satellite offices
in Sydney,
Buenos Aires and Bali.
Hmm. So, notoriously
boring places.
Samantha...
I'm just trying to understand
why you're not
putting yourself up
for your literal dream job.
You're smart, you're driven,
you're more than qualified.
Isn't it worth the risk?
I don't know if
it's what I want right now.
Besides, what if I put myself
out there, and they say no?
Then at least you tried.
You can't succeed if you
don't at least try first.
Take that cake, for example.
What about it?
It took you 15 minutes
to decide to order it.
So?
It's vanilla cake
with vanilla frosting.
- It was the...
- Safe choice.
But there's
nothing fun about it.
And you don't even
really like vanilla.
Point taken.
You need to get
out of your comfort zone,
for your own sake.
Why?
It's called a "comfort zone"
because it's comfortable.
I'm just saying,
whether it's work
or, if we're really getting
into it, your dating life,
if you keep playing it safe
and getting in the way
of your own happiness,
everything is gonna be vanilla.
And there's nothing
wrong with that.
- Oh, sorry, one second.
- Mmm.
Hey, Dad!
Hey, kiddo!
How are you holding up?
Oh, just fine.
I'm out with Samantha.
What's up?
There was a little accident.
- Are you OK?
- Yes!
Yes, totally.
Um, 100%, totally fine.
Uh, but, well, um...
- My arm is in a cast.
- What?
I just took a bit of a spill.
- When?
- Yesterday.
You broke your arm
and waited a day to tell me?
No, no, no! I fractured my arm
and waited a day to tell you.
But, really, there's... there's
nothing to worry about.
Dad!
What? Look, I...
I know how busy you are.
I just didn't
want to bother you.
You have to tell me
when you break your arm.
It's just the two of us now.
We have to
look out for each other.
I know, I know. You're right.
Uh, and I hate to ask you this,
but could you come home
for a little while?
Just to help me out until
I get used to this stupid cast?
Of course. I'll be there
first thing in the morning.
Thanks, Annie.
Love you!
Love you, Dad.
Shoop, shoop, shoop
Shoop, shoop,
be-doo-be-doop
Shoop, shoop, shoop
Shoop, shoop,
be-doo-be-doop
Morning, good morning,
rise and shine
Today is the day
I make you mine
Hey! How are you doing?
The sun is rising
over the hay
I know it's gonna be
a wonderful day
So morning, good morning,
rise and shine
What is your soup of the day?
Morning, good morning
Actually, no,
not soup of the day.
- Good morning.
- Good morning, Dale!
Just the usual today.
I like the sound
of the jumbo cruller,
but is it too big?
How big is it?
Ma'am, how about
some of our mac and cheese?
World famous.
That does sound pretty good.
But isn't Gouda
a lunchtime cheese?
After all, eating
too much dairy before noon
can lead to
26% less productivity.
It's also got Manchego.
There's no wrong choice there.
I like to know what I'm getting.
Do you need me to help you?
- Yeah, no, I... I'm good.
- All right.
Well, in that case, if it's
not too much trouble, Dale,
can I get my usual while
it's still technically morning?
Much obliged!
If you do decide
to make up your mind,
the mac and cheese here
is really something special.
See you, D!
I'll have what he had.
Shoop, shoop, shoop
Shoop, shoop,
be-doo-be-doop
Morning, good morning,
rise and shine
Today is the day
- Good morning, lovelies!
All right, let's start this day!
OK...
It's gonna be
a wonderful day
Morning, good morning,
rise and shine
Morning, good morning,
rise and shine
Rachel, you wouldn't believe
this woman just now at Dale's.
She was just standing there,
taking her sweet time,
asking poor Dale
a million questions
when the man only has, like,
5 items on his menu anyways.
I swear, Rachel,
some people just don't know
what they have in life.
At least I'm lucky
because I got...
- You!
- You!
Uh...
Sorry. Uh, welcome
to Blum's Flowers.
How can I help you?
Uh, my dad lives in town,
and he had a little accident,
so I wanted to
get him something.
Oh, is your dad Jim?
I heard he got kicked by a mule.
No.
Is it Paddy?
He fell down a grain elevator.
Not him, no.
Has to be old Gary.
I heard a mule kicked him
into a grain elevator.
No, but wow! This town has
changed since I was a kid.
Yeah.
Um, so, do you have
your sights set
on any particular flower?
Honestly, I wouldn't even
know where to begin.
It's kind of overwhelming, huh?
Like a certain deli counter.
Do you have anything that says:
"I love you, and get well soon"?
Yes, I have an idea.
So, we always start off
our bouquets with some foliage.
How about we start with
a foundation of cream roses?
One in the middle as such,
surrounded with...
4 other equally
as stunning roses.
Uh, the eryngiums
are a nice touch to add.
Oh! Now we can
add some carnations.
They're warm and comforting,
not somber.
Some crispedia.
Some alliums.
Gives you a great
balance of color.
Some blue eucalyptus.
And they smell lovely.
And we surround them
with pincushions,
kind of like the guardians
of this bouquet.
And the master touch
is a pinecone.
And this basically will say:
"I love you,
but you're my father,
so I also respect you
and appreciate you."
Pinecones say all that?
Yes, they do.
A few last touches,
and we are just about ready
to wrap this up.
Voila!
It's stunning!
Thank you.
Thanks.
- You gonna be OK?
- Yeah.
- Yeah, OK.
- Thanks.
- Hey, pumpkin!
- Hey, Dad!
Ah! Thanks for coming
all this way.
It's no problem, really.
Wow! Those for me?
- Yes.
- Wow! Oh...
Still getting
used to this thing.
How are you feeling?
Uh, all things considered,
pretty good.
Although the doctor says
I'm gonna be in this thing
for another 4 weeks.
- What happened?
- It's just a scratch.
Come on, tell me!
Is it embarrassing?
- Did it happen in the bathroom?
- What? No!
Get the door for me, will you?
This isn't over!
- Flower guy!
- Deli lady!
Hey, Aaron!
I see you met my daughter, Ann.
You're Tom's daughter.
Why are you on a first-name
basis with my dad?
Got my delivery?
Yeah, Aphrodite roses,
Peruvian lilies
and the cholla cactus skeletons
you ordered.
Yes!
I'm sorry, "ordered"?
Ah, ha ha! The bouquet!
- Oh, the pinecone, masterstroke!
- Right?
They're just so rich
and texturally vibrant and...
Yeah, uh, no problem.
Will someone tell me
what's going on?
- Um, we...
- Compete together.
Compete? At what?
Um, let me show you.
- I'm gonna go grab the box.
- Sure.
Come on!
OK, so, I cannot wait
for you to see this.
See what?
I probably should have
told you earlier,
but I didn't want to
spoil the surprise.
We are competitive
flower arrangers.
Dad! This is amazing!
It was something
your mom got into.
She would drag me to all
these competitions
and introduce me
to all these people.
She dreamed about competing,
but she never got the chance.
I had no idea Mom was into this.
You know your mom.
Always on the lookout
for her next great adventure.
After we lost her, I don't know,
I guess I just thought
this could be
my next great adventure.
It's sweet.
Anyway, a couple of weeks
after she left us,
I was walking home,
and I saw the young guy
who did the flowers
for your mom's funeral.
And he was in his shop.
He was making an arrangement.
And I don't know.
It just made me happy
to see color and beauty again.
Yeah, and your dad
took to it immediately.
He's a real natural.
So, what do you guys do exactly?
You just...
smush flowers together?
The technical term
is we "arrange" flowers.
Yeah, there's not a whole lot
of smushing going on.
Yeah, basically,
teams of two work together
to build floral arrangements
based on a standardized set
of flowers and equipment.
And whoever is best, well...
Yeah, we were
supposed to be competing
at the end of the week.
The Botanic Cup.
It's kind of like the
Super Bowl, except with flowers
instead of cool commercials
and lousy football.
Exactly.
The Botanic Cup is the biggest
flower arranging
competition in the state.
Aaron and I would be competing
if I wasn't a clumsy ox
and tripped over that flowerbed
and broke my arm.
Without the old pruning arm,
I'm pretty useless to Aaron.
It's all right, buddy.
Just making it this far
is an achievement.
You know what?
Uh, about that, I looked
into the competition bylaws,
and apparently,
there is an exception
for a competitor dropping out.
Says right here:
"If a contestant must
prematurely exit due to illness,
"mule injury
or grievous bodily harm,
their position will be awarded
to their next of kin."
I'm sorry, you really gonna
trust a rule book from 1889?
There's, like,
a whole subsection
about allowable
skull shapes in there.
I asked, and they said yes.
Annie, if you compete for me,
we got a real shot at winning.
What do you say?
For me? For Mom.
Tom, we can't ask this of Ann.
I'll do it. I'd do anything
for you and Mom.
Yes! Yes! Thank you, Annie.
I'm sorry, but do you know
anything about floral design?
No, but, uh, neither did my dad,
and look how far he's come.
Exactly.
And Annie is my daughter.
I'm pretty sure talent
runs in the family.
I... I don't know about this.
Just give her the crash course.
She'll be up to speed
in no time.
Well, this seems like
a terrible idea, but fine.
But I'm gonna need your help
around the shop this week.
Help you get your head
in the game.
Plus, if I'm teaching you,
I'm gonna need an extra hand.
- Deal.
- Yes!
I'm telling you, this is gonna
be awesome. Mark my words.
What do you say we go unload
that cacti out of your trunk?
Actually, you know what?
You can unload it,
and I'll watch.
After you, partner.
See you at my shop in an hour?
I hope you know
what you got yourself into.
I'm really gonna do this.
I'm really gonna do this.
OK, newbie!
Qualifiers are on Saturday.
If we place in those,
we can move on to
the finals on Sunday.
If we want a chance at winning,
we gotta get you prepped.
This ain't your
garden variety competition.
I get it. "Garden."
Oh, you weren't making a pun.
This is the big show,
the grand finale,
the biggest moment in your life.
Are you ready?
We are talking
about flowers, right?
OK, how would you rank
your botanical skills?
Um, beginner.
Do you have a favorite flower?
Can you name a flower?
Uh, red.
Oh, you gotta be kidding me.
Uh, roses. They're red.
And violets are blue.
Violets are violet.
It's in the name.
It's as if you were
to call an orange yellow.
You know what? Here.
Here is a Pink Floyd rose.
It's a great beginner flower.
- It's pretty.
- It looks simple.
But there's a trick to
making the ordinary really pop.
See, you just reflex
the petals like this...
and you get...
something unexpected.
You try.
OK. Reflex the petals.
Got it.
You catch on fast.
I'm a risk analyst.
It's my job to catch on fast.
- A risk what?
- Analyst.
I haven't heard of it.
I get paid
to figure out any problem
that someone
could possibly face.
Sounds like a lot,
taking on
other people's problems
and making them your own.
And solving them.
That usually involves
figuring out supply chains
or upgrading cybersecurity,
you know, things that
tend to be a little more complex
than pop out a flower.
Well, if that's how you feel,
why don't we just, uh,
jump into the deep end?
OK, so, you want your flowers
to tell a story.
Greenery.
A story about who you are,
what your passions are,
generally,
what you like in life.
And you always start with a...
a star flower,
'cause this star flower
will anchor your arrangement.
And then, just like
with any other story,
really,
fill in the blanks.
See how easy it is?
Once you find your North Star,
you just let
your creativity flow.
Yeah, I don't think
I can do that.
Oh, sure you can,
with a little bit of practice.
So let's do this.
Here...
you have a pink hydrangea
and a white lily.
Pick one,
and we can go from there.
Right.
Just pick one.
I can do this.
Yeah. There's no need
to get into your head.
Just make up your mind
and launch yourself from there.
No...
- I'll pick the pink one.
- All right.
- What's it called? A hydrangea?
- Mm-hmm.
That's a weird name
for a flower.
Sorry. Focus, OK.
95% of products aimed
towards women are pink,
so that makes it
a logical choice
for a flower story
I'm telling about myself.
But does its popularity mean
it's too mass market and basic?
Is that what
I think about myself?
Either way, there's literally
no wrong answer.
- I'll pick the white one.
- OK.
But it's...
It's just...
It's white, you know.
Is that too bland?
Or too exclusive?
Am I doing myself a disservice
by not choosing a color?
What story am I trying to tell?
Who am I, even?
What am I doing with my life?
Oh no!
You know what? It's OK!
I'm sorry.
Just stop... smashing things.
Just think very carefully:
Are you in a position
to smash any more pots?
No.
All right, then.
Uh, is my shop
going to survive this week?
Am I gonna survive this week?
All right, so I think
we're gonna start simpler,
much simpler.
How simple are we talking?
Uh, I'm thinking entry level.
Ah, OK.
It's the last one, I promise.
Well, the tillandsias
give you a sense of motion.
But if you want to
fill in the cracks,
what you gotta go with
is the hydrangea.
That's your money flower.
You really know your stuff.
It helps when you
love what you do.
- Question.
- Answer.
How does a guy like you
get into the cutthroat world of
competitive flower arranging?
Well, I kind of fell into it.
Please. You fall into
knitting or jigsaw puzzles.
You don't fall into floral work
at competition level.
What's the real story?
Well, it was the Rose Bowl.
A football game
got you into flowers?
I was gonna play in it.
- Wait, what?
- Yeah!
Before I was your humble
neighborhood florist,
I was actually a wide receiver
for Penn State.
No way!
I was gonna declare for
the NFL draft and everything.
So, what happened?
I tore my ACL in practice
two days before the game,
and the doctor said I'd be lucky
if I managed to walk again.
Needless to say,
my football career was over.
Statistically speaking,
ACLs are the number-one
career enders.
Sorry. I did an analysis
for the Eagles once.
Keep going.
So, I'm in this hospital
in Pasadena,
my dreams and future
in complete flux,
and my teammates are gonna play
the biggest game of their lives.
I look outside,
and there were flowers.
It was the Rose Parade.
Turns out the hospital
was on the parade route.
All those flowers
decorating cars and trucks,
I'd never seen anything like it.
It was beautiful.
I imagine it's way cooler
in real life than on TV.
Yeah. People were
cheering and laughing.
It just sparked something in me.
I was an athlete my whole life,
and flowers were gonna be
my chance to compete again.
So, Mr. Football Star,
who are we competing against?
Former power lifters,
retired kick boxers,
uh, sumo wrestlers
on injured reserve?
No, nothing like that.
Mostly retirees and florists.
But don't think for a second
that they're not
in it to win it.
We've got the Hayden twins.
Fraternal, not identical.
We've got Linda Thompson
and her husband, Keith.
Where's my dad?
And who's that cute girl
you have your arm around?
- Uh, we don't need to...
- Aaron Blum, is that you?
Oh, our competition.
Toni, hi.
What are you doing here?
Same thing as you, I'm sure.
Getting inspired.
You're a competitor too?
Returning champion.
You want to introduce me
to your new girlfriend?
- I'm just the...
- She's my...
...flower arranging buddy.
- Cool.
- We're not even friends.
We just met, actually.
I don't think he likes me much.
It's a whole thing.
Throttle down.
Well, I'll see you both
on Saturday.
And, Aaron, try to make it
over the finish line.
It's always a pleasure.
OK, wow! What's her deal?
We used to compete together.
Oh, come on.
We don't anymore, obviously.
I don't know.
My dad seems like a real
downgrade compared to her.
Yeah, and we dated.
Toni is the reason
why I don't date.
You don't date, like, now?
Or you don't date, like, ever?
Well, she taught me that flowers
are way easier
than relationships.
Flowers don't
pick fights with you.
Flowers don't get mad at you
for forgetting their birthday.
Flowers don't change the
language in your phone to Korean
and lock you out of the house
in a bathrobe at 2:00 a.m.
That's far too specific
to just be an example.
I just know
more about myself now.
I know I don't
have time for romance.
I do, on the other hand,
have a special place
in my heart for...
matthiola.
- Matthiola.
- Matthiola.
Yesterday was a big day for you.
Yeah. I guess it was.
I've never been
to a botanical garden before.
You looked a little off.
I was, you know, overwhelmed,
but it's fine.
You know, I worry
about you sometimes, Rachel.
Rachel?
Ann. My name is Ann.
I'm sorry. Uh, what?
- Were you talking to someone?
- No, I was...
Talking to your
imaginary friend?
No! No, I, um...
It's OK. I had one too,
when I was 5.
It was a tie-dyed zebra
named Mademoiselle Glitterpasta.
Right. Um, thank you
so much for helping out.
No problem.
So, do you think we actually
have a shot this weekend?
Well, that's still
to be determined.
Uh, if we compete
and if we want to win,
I've gotta get you to
at least a basic understanding
of the mechanics.
I'm ready. Teach.
So what we gotta do
is move quickly and decisively,
be in each other's heads,
think independently,
but move in
complete synchronization.
OK, first, you have to
make a passable cut.
I'm ready.
All right.
So here it is.
Easy, delicate
and across the grain.
Put it at an angle and chop.
We did it!
We trimmed a flower!
You trimmed a flower!
Uh, now you just gotta make
several thousand more of those,
and maybe we'll
get a chance to win.
Pleasure doing business
with you, coach.
And if we win the qualifier,
then Aaron and I go on to
compete for the main prize.
I like seeing you this excited!
No more vanilla.
Is that the, uh...
The vanilla cake?
You better believe it is.
Celebration or stress?
Stress.
I got an email
that my aloe vera supplier
is going out of business.
So, what did you do?
Well, I called my ex,
who knows a guy who knows a guy
down in Mexico
that can get me
the supply I need.
But it's only a stopgap.
So, tell me about Aaron.
He's a nice guy.
Sounds like a stud.
Stop.
I just assume that a single
former football player,
small-town florist
is super duper handsome.
He's my dad's friend, Samantha.
Wait, he's not, like, 60, is he?
I mean, I'm not... I'm not
ruling that out, but...
No, he's our age.
And we're just working together
to help my dad
win the Botanic Cup.
Wow! He is hot!
Real man sandwich!
What does that even mean?
I heard my niece
say it one time,
and now I'm obsessed with it.
And how do you even know
what he looks like?
I googled him
while you were talking
about flowers or whatever.
Thanks. You're a real friend.
Just keeping an eye out
on my bestie.
So, I'll see you this weekend?
Are you sure you want to
come all the way down here?
There's no guarantee
we'll make it to finals.
I have a feeling you will,
because you're awesome
and I love you
and you can achieve anything.
You're too much.
Seriously, though,
there's really
nothing going on there?
Absolutely not.
He doesn't even date.
And besides, who says
that I want to anyway?
I believe you.
Goodbye.
I always wondered what
went into a wedding bouquet.
Each one is unique.
You have to match it
to the customer.
And I'd like to think
that it makes their special day
that much better.
So, do you have
any first-hand experience?
- With what?
- Weddings, marriage.
Oh, no, no, no. Never.
Well, that's not entirely true.
I did almost marry Toni.
- Oh.
- Yeah.
- OK.
- Mm-hmm.
That all makes sense now.
What happened?
Uh, the dream ended,
and then the partnership ended.
Yeah. How about you?
Do you ever think
about taking the plunge?
Yeah, I was engaged once.
Or, rather, he proposed,
and I was really
considering saying yes.
I was, like, 87% certain
that it would work.
But I had to run
all the numbers, and...
'Cause it felt like
the right thing,
but it also didn't.
And then, after a month,
he told me I was
taking too long,
and now he's with
a hot yoga model.
I mean, she's
not a hotyoga model.
She's a model for hot yoga.
Though she is very pretty.
Hmm, wow.
And now they're engaged.
And I'm sleeping
in my childhood twin bed
and arranging flowers because
my dad fractured his arm,
so I think we're both
doing pretty great.
Well, for what it's worth,
I like having you around.
You sure you wouldn't
rather have my dad here?
Hey, listen, Tom's a great guy,
but you tell
1000% less dad jokes.
OK.
What's wrong?
Uh, just my boss.
He wants me to go over a list of
candidates for a big promotion.
Oh. And are you yourself
one of those candidates?
No. But it's fine.
Are you sure?
'Cause it doesn't seem fine.
I mean, I... I should be
a candidate.
I just haven't exactly told him
that I want to be.
Why not email him right now?
Just tell him:
"Listen, I am
the perfect candidate
"for this business thingy
that we do,
and my friend Aaron
totally agrees with me."
Yeah, I don't think that would
go over super well, but...
Well, you don't know
unless you try.
No risk, no reward.
Why does everyone
keep saying that?
Because maybe you
need to hear it.
I just feel like
since my mom died,
I've been looking
for this safety.
And my job definitely
provides that.
But what if I don't
just want safety?
Well, as someone who's had an
unexpected shift in careers,
I can tell you that, sometimes,
taking that risk
is what's gonna make your life
that much happier.
Thanks for the advice.
I'll tell you what:
I'm going to the flower market
this afternoon.
Uh, since you're learning
to be a champion and all,
why don't you tag along?
Help familiarize
with the flowers.
Yeah. That would be great.
Oh, and, uh, Tom can come too.
You know, it might be nice to
get him out of the house.
Yeah, he... he would love that.
It's a date!
Oh! Look at these succulents!
They're amazing!
I love this place.
Everything is just...
Oh my!
Look at the orchids!
Look! They're so lush
and purple!
Guys, I'm gonna go
check out the petunias.
I'll be right back.
All right.
Thank you.
For what?
I genuinely haven't
seen him this happy
since before my mom died.
Well, he's been
cooped up inside.
I just thought he could
use some sunshine.
I mean not just today.
Well, it's my pleasure.
Your father is a natural.
You helped a lonely old guy
find his second act.
Hey, you want to
do something special for him?
Sure!
Why don't you get something
from here? Morris!
Aaron Blum! If it isn't
my second-favorite customer!
This is Ann Keller.
Tom's daughter! Now, there's
my favorite customer.
Oh!
Listen, uh, we were
hoping to get some
stargazer lilies
to surprise Tom with.
Oh, about that...
Oh no! What happened?
We're having
problems at the farm.
Flowers just aren't growing
like they're supposed to,
and whatever makes it
winds up getting eaten
by the darn deer.
I'm sorry to hear it.
Ah, it's part of the life,
I suppose.
You know, money's been
a bit tight lately,
and I'm just not sure
what the solution is.
- Maybe I can help.
- Oh!
You're in horticulture?
Uh, even better:
risk management.
So that's a no to horticulture?
I can have a look at your
problems, analyze the angles
and come up with
some possible solutions,
just like that.
I appreciate it, but, uh,
I'm not sure I could afford you.
Oh, it's on me.
Any friend of Aaron's and
my dad's is a friend of mine.
Well, that would be wonderful.
Thank you.
Annie! Come check out
these hydrangeas.
Your, uh, new girlfriend
is a sharp one.
- Not a girlfriend. Partner.
- Mmm.
- Competition partner.
- Right.
Miss you, Mom.
Annie, a little help!
Coming, Dad!
How am I supposed to
eat with this thing?
You'll have to learn to use
your left hand for a while.
But if you're gonna grumble,
I could make you
a smoothie instead.
Have I told you you're
the best daughter in the world?
So, it's going OK
with you and Aaron?
Yeah! I'm learning
a lot from him.
The two of you have been
hanging out a lot.
Well, we gotta get friendly fast
if we're gonna bring home
the Botanic Cup.
That's my girl!
Smooth move, getting me here
so I could win
a flower competition for you.
I actually like
having you around.
And I knew you'd be
a total natural at it.
I kind of am.
We're actually heading out
to Morris's farm today.
Oh! I love that guy!
I heard!
His stargazer lilies, right?
Mm-hmm. Oh, I don't suppose
you can pick me up some alliums?
They were your mom's favorite.
Yeah, of course.
They were actually
the first flower
I tried to plant in her honor.
Turns out the soil here
isn't exactly perfect
conditions for it.
Well, figures.
I'm sure she'd be
proud of you for trying.
I bet she'd be proud of you,
jumping in to help me win
some silly competition.
Um, maybe I can make you
that smoothie later.
In the meantime,
do you think you could handle
the Herculean task
of moving these strawberries
from the bowl to your mouth
with your non-dominant hand?
Very funny.
I'll be home by dinner.
Ooh! Look at my little girl!
Running out to meet with a boy.
Dad...
- It's just like high school!
- It is not!
Oh, it really is.
Don't be embarrassed
if you have a little crush!
Aaron is a good-looking guy.
- Bye.
- Bye!
Yeah, man,
this doesn't look good.
I know.
It's been like this all season.
I'm really not sure
what to do about it.
I'm sorry, Morris.
This is above my pay grade.
I'm not sure what
the play is here, buddy.
I think I might have something.
You said it was
just this season?
Yeah. Can't figure it out.
- Could be the soil, but...
- Red clover.
If you plant 90% of your
usual yield of heliotropes,
but add 10% of red clover
as a companion plant,
its high natural nitrogen levels
will boost
soil rejuvenation by 18%.
And you get the added bonus
of some beautiful flowers
to look at.
You'll have a slightly
smaller yield,
but you should be back up
to 100% by next season.
Wow!
Um, that's a lot more statistics
than I usually
use while planting.
You also have a problem
with deer, right?
Yeah. We don't have the budget
to replace the electric fence.
You don't have to.
You can plant aloe vera.
It'll grow twice as fast
in nitrogen-rich soil,
and keep the deer away.
And I have a buyer for you!
My friend needs it
for her skin care line.
That's extra money
in your pocket.
Hey!
I don't know how to thank you.
It's nothing, really.
Well, take anything you want
from my farm, free of charge.
It's on me.
That's very kind. Thank you.
Hey, how was your harvest?
Pretty good after
the rain we had.
I found some morchella down
by the creek the other day.
You guys should check it out.
What do you say?
You wanna go foraging?
I would say yes,
but I have no idea
what you guys are talking about.
- Just come with me.
- Thanks, Morris.
Thank you.
Morchella what?
Morchella esculenta.
Translation?
Morels.
They usually grow near trees
and especially love
the soil near creek beds.
How do you know so much
about mushroom hunting?
Well, I'm a member of
the local mycology society.
And, actually,
Morris is our president.
Is that, like,
a fan club for mushrooms?
Pretty much.
Flowers and fungi. Just keeps
getting better and better.
Oh, score!
So, the first thing
you're looking for
is this honeycomb cap.
Then you want to slice it open
and make sure
the inside is hollow
and that the cap
is attached to the stem.
So what happens if it doesn't
meet the requirements?
Well, then it's a false morel.
You'd be amazed at how closely
the impostors
resemble the real thing.
I would, would I?
Yes, you would.
Kind of looks like a pinecone.
Yeah, they kind of do.
It'd be crazy to put this
in a bouquet, though, right?
Well, it all depends
on the story you want to tell.
Look! There's more!
- Once you start seeing them...
- You can't stop?
Do you want to get
a bite to eat or something?
Uh, you know what?
Any other time, I would.
But I just...
I gotta get back to the shop
and check on something.
- I'll see you later.
- Yeah! Yeah, you will. Yeah.
Oh, hey, Ann!
Heard this was your
mom's favorite flower.
Thank you.
I'll see you tomorrow?
All right.
- Bye!
- Bye!
I'm telling you, Dale,
she's really taking to this.
I think we actually have a shot.
And this is Tom's daughter
you're competing with?
I'm just showing her
the ropes right now
while Tom gets back on his feet,
or should I say arms.
Yeah. You seem pretty excited
to be competing with her.
Oh, of course I'm excited.
We got a chance to win.
This is huge.
Mm-hmm.
Ex-football stars
don't get a lot of chances
to compete
at championship level.
You know this.
I know how much
this means to you, Aaron.
I'm just saying you seem
to enjoy the company.
There's nothing wrong with that.
Don't start with me, Dale.
You know how I feel about
relationships after Toni.
I'm not saying you have to
run off and marry this girl.
It's just nice to know
you have someone around
who's not made out of cellulose.
You been saving that one?
It's one of the 3 words
I remember from
high school biology.
The others are "riboflavin"
and "parakeet."
We did a lot of bird stuff.
Listen, I'm just happy alone,
all right?
I don't need another
Toni in my life.
Good thing she's an Ann.
I appreciate it, Dale, but
that's not what this is, OK?
We are quite literally
in it just to win it.
Mr. Mann! I've been
meaning to call you.
Look, I'm so glad
we could finally connect.
Listen, something came up,
and the big bosses
want to speed up the timeline.
I thought you had
until Monday to decide.
The higher ups
are getting antsy,
and I need to make a decision
by Monday morning.
And you know how much I
trust you, so who do you like?
I was actually thinking...
What about me?
Or not.
What am I saying? I don't...
I don't want to go abroad.
I don't know what I'm saying.
I'm... I don't even
like going abroad.
You know what? Forget it!
I don't know what
I'm talking about.
I actually am perfectly...
I'm happy... I'm happy
where I am. I am.
Yeah, sorry.
I must have
lost you for a second.
Uh, what were you gonna say?
Nothing.
I will, uh, have a look
first thing this afternoon
and let you know
as soon as possible.
OK, great! I look forward
to hearing from you.
Thanks, Ann.
I'm sure we can find a solution.
Yes, of course.
Yeah. It's...
it's not a problem.
Hey! I wanted to
show you something.
I know it's not the most
mind-bending arrangement,
but I wanted to prove to you
that I could do it on my own.
What now?
Hey! That... that looks great!
Everything OK?
Yeah. Sorry, I just got
some annoying news.
What's wrong?
I'm doing a wedding today,
and the bride
is being a royal pain.
Well, it's her big day.
If she wants to be a nightmare,
who are we to say
she's not entitled to it?
I understand that,
but she wants her
entire floral palate changed,
and she's getting married
in 8 hours.
Whoa, lady! It's your wedding.
There are more important
things to worry about.
Like whether your uncle
will slip the DJ a $50 bill
to play Monster Mashon loop.
It happened at
my cousin's wedding.
So, I know
this is kind of last minute,
um, and if you don't want to
do it, that's totally fine.
I completely understand.
Out with it.
Would you mind coming along
and giving me a helping hand?
A wedding is
pretty major league.
I mean, I've only been
doing this a couple of days.
Yeah, but you've been
doing it nonstop.
And you're kind of
the only option I have.
You're right. I am both
a great and singular option.
Sweet! We're gonna make magic.
Thank you so much.
Oh! Can you add some ranunculus
on Table 3, please?
On it!
Oh, and, uh, don't forget
the carnations on 3, please.
- Got it!
- Thank you!
And I need, uh...
Roses for the sweetheart table?
I noticed it was looking
a little light.
That's a good catch.
I learned from the best!
Thank you, partner.
You're welcome, teammate.
You know, a week ago,
I never thought I'd be doing
flowers at a wedding,
but now that I have,
it's not bad!
Mr. Flower Guy?
Oh! How can I help you, ma'am?
My sister decided to give
my flowers a haircut, and...
Yeah. That's...
that's a haircut.
You know what?
I can help you with that.
Perfect!
You know, I think
it needs a little something.
There!
See? Nothing
a little TLC can't fix.
Thank you, Mr. Flower Guy.
You're welcome.
So, I was, uh, thinking...
Do you want to
grab a coffee after this?
Yeah.
I'd love that.
Thank you for the pick-me-up.
I didn't know how much
I needed this.
What's wrong?
Nothing, nothing.
Hey, you did great today.
So, what's with the face?
Honestly? I don't
really like weddings.
They kind of bum me out.
It's true.
You, a professional florist,
doesn't like weddings?
That's like a baker
who doesn't like bread
or a clown
who doesn't like tiny cars.
No, no, I love bread.
Tiny cars, not so much.
You know, I almost
did marry Toni.
Yeah, you mentioned that.
We made it to our wedding day.
Our parents were there,
friends were there,
guests, everybody.
Yikes. I think I see
where this is going.
You do?
Did she ditch you for her ex,
the moment when they ask,
"Does anyone have
any objection?"
That's a super common
occurrence, isn't it?
Yeah, it is, but no.
Although, that would have
been perfect.
So what happened?
Well, we got into
this huge fight
before walking down the aisle.
I'm talking seismic.
She accused me
of not being able to change.
I accused her of always
putting herself first.
What caused the fight?
We couldn't agree which one of
us was gonna say "I do" first.
I can see how that
would be a deal breaker.
Mm-hmm. And right then
and there, the wedding was off.
I guess the big question is,
did you at least get
your venue deposit back?
I'm just looking
for a bright side.
Our whole relationship
was based on competition.
It turns out our biggest
competition was each other.
I get it. You want a partner,
not a competitor.
Mm-hmm.
Break-ups are hard, even if
it's for the right reasons.
I'm sorry.
It's fine.
I learned my lesson.
Never mix work with romance
or flowers with romance or
anything, really, with romance.
What about friendship
and football?
- Huh?
- Feel like showing off?
Oh! Oh no,
you don't want that.
I almost turned pro.
I think I can handle it.
OK, well, let's see
what you got. Hey, kid!
Can we play?
All right, superstar!
Let's do this!
I'm feeling fine
Got my head in the game
Not bad, not bad.
Oh! That's a catch!
I feel the crowd
calling out my name
Can't stop me
I'm a working machine
If you wanna go get it
If you wanna go get it
Go get it
Sorry!
Go get it
I'm re-thinking
my risk management career.
I almost went pro.
I'm open!
Turn up the heat
Nice!
Ooh, I'm gonna show you
what I'm fighting for
Right hand!
All right, whoo!
Got get it
Go get it
Annie?
- Hey, Dad!
- Hey! What's going on?
Just taking a break
before I meet Aaron
at the shop to practice.
The qualifier is tomorrow.
I know. You excited?
I am! And terrified.
But determined.
It's a whole stew of emotions
going on inside me.
I get what you're going through.
I felt the exact same way
the night before
my first competition.
But you know what?
It's gonna be great.
I have faith in you.
And I think you should
have faith in yourself.
Thanks, Dad.
I think I'm starting to.
It's been real lonely
since your mom passed away.
I know.
All this stuff, this
flower arranging, competing,
it just feels like I found
a way to connect with her,
you know, even though
she's not with us anymore.
You know, you are
so much like her.
Please!
Mom was a free spirit,
an artist.
She did what she wanted
when she wanted.
She was so happy.
What, you're not happy?
I don't know.
It feels like since she died,
life just hasn't had the same...
Color.
Yeah, exactly.
I tried to fill the hole
with work, but it just...
I still feel this... emptiness.
It's hard to make a life
out of something
we don't feel 100% about.
But, for what it's worth,
I haven't seen you thriving
like this in a long time.
- Dad...
- Yeah?
Thanks for fracturing your arm.
Yeah, well,
glad I could help out.
Just, uh, there's only so many
bones I can spare, all right?
Look, no matter
what happens tomorrow,
just know that I love you
and I couldn't be happier
to have you as a daughter.
Thanks, Dad. I love you too.
Plus, your mom
would be super thrilled
to know that you
and Aaron are an item.
What?
He's not my boyfriend!
Oh my! You sound
like you're 14!
I'll do the mac and cheese
and a Reuben.
You're working
with Aaron, right?
On the flower thing?
It's the Botanic Cup.
Yeah, it's the flower thing.
Why?
A little word of advice:
Aaron's a great guy.
He's funny, he's passionate.
He's the star pitcher of our
neighborhood kickball team.
He never mentioned that!
But there's one thing
he just flat out hates
more than anything.
What is it?
Sauerkraut.
OK, so, hold off on the Reuben.
Smart move.
He is, however, partial
to a cheesesteak,
extra grilled onions.
I'll take one of those.
It's a pleasure doing business
with you, Ann Keller.
Why won't you come together
with an awe-inspiring
sense of wonder?
You doing OK?
Yeah, totally completely fine.
That's a lie.
I've never been so nervous
and excited at the same time.
Not even when
you got proposed to?
Oh yeah, which is probably
a good indication
that relationship
wasn't build to last.
- Probably.
- There's just so much pressure.
You know?
What if I let my dad down?
What if I let myself down?
No, you won't. Trust me.
I get very nauseous if I can't
predict a foreseeable outcome.
I used to feel
the same way before big games,
going over everything
that could go wrong,
psyching myself out.
Thing is, if you
think about failing too much,
then it leads to failure.
It's a vicious circle.
And you are not going to fail.
In fact, I can prove it.
May I?
- Mm-hmm.
- OK.
I will make you
a deal, right now.
Don't be scared.
All right.
Veronicas, of course.
Eucalyptus.
And a touch of ruscus.
OK, OK, OK.
It needs one final thing.
Garden roses and peonies.
So, the deal is, if you can
make an arrangement right now
with this set of flowers,
I will show you something that
I've never shown anyone before.
In a fun way or an,
"Ann's gonna end up the subject
of a true crime podcast",
kind of way?
Definitely the former.
Intriguing.
So, do we have a deal?
Deal.
All right! Let's get to work!
You run my soul
in a major key
A little roll
Yeah! Oh, that's a smart move.
I run my fingers
down the ivories
I wanna play you
like a melody
All right
'Cause you're
taking me higher
Yes! Yes, yes, yes! Yes, yes.
I don't care
what's on the radio
Your rhythm
takes me to the sky
I'm on an all-time high
Oh, oh, oh
Does he like it?
Does he hate it?
You did an excellent job!
- Really?
- Congratulations!
Thank you!
Um...
Feels really good
to hear you say that.
I've never seen anybody
take so quickly to this.
Well, it's in my blood, I guess.
You and I, we're gonna
kick butt tomorrow.
Yes, we are.
Um, excuse me?
Yeah?
I believe I was promised
a reveal so shocking,
it would make my head spin,
and then explode
from sheer awesomeness.
I'm not sure
I promised all that.
That's how I heard it, so...
OK.
Uh, well, I guess
it's now or never.
Um, follow me.
I want you to meet Rachel.
This is Rachel.
Um, what?
She's an epiphyllum oxypetalum,
more commonly known
as "queen of the night."
So, you've been talking
to your giant plant
this whole time?
She's a cactus.
The queen of the night
is one of the hardest plants
to grow on earth.
She only blooms at night
for a few minutes,
and then the flowers die off.
She sounds like
a real drama queen.
No, no, no!
Listen, if you see these buds,
it means that
she's about to bloom.
That's why I've
been checking on her.
So, why did you name
your cactus Rachel?
I don't know.
She looks like a Rachel.
Huh.
Hey, I mean, she's really
hard to flower, all right?
That's why I don't
want to miss the bloom.
It's like the floral equivalent
of a meteor shower.
That sounds incredible.
It does!
But why do you talk to it?
Because plants like
being taken care of.
You know, they respond
to touching
and talking and even singing.
Please, let me watch you
sing to it.
No, no, no, no.
Listen, flowers are like people.
They thrive on
positivity and love.
I think it's sweet how much
you care about Rachel.
- Yeah.
- I do.
And I'm honored that
I'm the first person
you've introduced her to.
Well, it's my pleasure.
Wow! This is really happening.
Told you this is a big deal.
Oh, before I forget,
I got you something.
For me? Oh!
Team Rose Bowl?
I made it.
I made one for myself too.
We're gonna do great.
Sure hope you brought
your A game, Aaron.
Oh, but of course!
You like my new partner?
Wow!
Claudio here is the best
and most handsome florist
Argentina has to offer.
Isn't that right, Claudio?
We met at a conference
in Buenos Aires last month.
One thing led to the other,
and, well...
I'm happy I upgraded.
Best of luck to you both!
- Apparently, he doesn't talk.
- Yikes.
- Real question.
- Yeah.
Is she a wizard?
Is that how she keeps popping up
whenever we least expect her?
You know what?
Forget about her.
She's just trying to
get in our heads.
- Let's do this.
- Let's do it.
Welcome to
the annual Botanic Cup.
You are some of
the best floral designers
from around this state,
and you've more than earned
your places here.
Our rules are simple.
Teams of two will work in tandem
to create the assigned
floral arrangement:
a vertical modern arrangement
with movement.
Everyone will have access
to the same materials
and floral elements
and are allowed to use as many
or as few of them
as they see fit.
You'll have one hour to
create your arrangement.
The top two arrangements
from this heat
will move onto
final competition.
We'll begin in a few minutes.
Good luck and good arranging!
All right.
You good?
I have giant knots
in my stomach, but I'm fine.
I also am very hungry,
'cause I didn't eat breakfast
'cause I was too nervous, but...
That feeling is normal.
It's passion.
I get it every time I compete.
My heart feels like a
hummingbird drank coffee.
Is that normal?
Yeah. That's part of it.
But we're gonna do great,
'cause we're a team.
Yes, we are.
Three, two, one, begin!
So I'm thinking
we do a trumpet vase
with a climbing vertical twist,
create a sculpture of the
foliage to anchor the movement.
It'll be like a
floral crescendo. And maybe...
Some red anthuriums
to add pops of color?
Yeah, that's a great idea.
- Oh, oh! I'm so sorry, Aaron!
- No, it's all right.
It's all in my head.
Just go grab the flowers.
OK, sorry.
- Is this the right size?
- It's perfect.
Two more...
OK, Toni.
It's good, but I still feel
like it's missing something.
- I think you're right.
- Uh, pincushions or gerbera?
- I don't know.
- What?
I gotta finish.
It's your call.
Seriously?
Oh no.
Gerbera could add nice texture,
but does it compete
with the spider orchid?
Then again, the gerbera is
a bit out of place, basic.
Pruners down, people.
I'm sorry, Aaron,
if I cost us the competition.
Hey, no, no, no.
You did great.
I'm proud of you.
Your attention, please!
Our winners are...
Toni Greer and Claudio, um...
It's a mononym.
Like Aristotle or Cher.
Ah! How wonderful.
Congratulations!
And our runners up are
Aaron Blum and Ann Keller!
- That's us!
- Yes!
Congratulations!
- I told you! We did it!
- But I screwed up.
It wasn't perfect, but it
was enough for us to move on.
And that's a win.
Annie, I am so proud of you.
- But I got second place.
- So? You're moving on!
- That's what I said!
- Bam!
This is amazing.
I'm gonna go talk to the judge
before she leaves.
Listen, we are
still in the game.
I feel like I owe you one.
How do you propose
you pay me back?
Well, I guess
I could buy us dinner.
I know just the place.
It was exhilarating!
Wasn't it?
I see how you got into it.
It's crazy,
'cause it feels even better
than catching
the winning touchdown.
Fewer 300-pound giants trying
to tackle you, for one.
Exactly.
I wanted to thank you.
For what? I almost
cost us the competition.
You did all the hard work.
I haven't allowed myself
to open up to anybody
since I broke up with Toni.
You know, I hid behind work
and the competition,
basically convincing myself
that I was happy on my own.
But spending
this time with you, well,
it's just really nice
working with someone I trust.
Well, I'm glad I've moved up
from nuisance newbie
to trusted teammate.
This week has been
pretty great for me too.
Cheers to that.
To new beginnings.
New beginnings.
Any room left for dessert?
I don't know.
What you got?
Our world-famous bread pudding
and our locally
famous cheesecake.
Well, why don't we
let the lady decide?
Uh, bread pudding is delicious.
But cheesecake is
the second most popular dessert
amongst women in my demographic.
We'll take both.
Oh.
I like where your head is at.
I figured we deserved it.
Oh, I... I didn't
notice the time.
I gotta go.
I should check on Rachel.
Do you want to maybe
swing by the shop tomorrow?
Get some practice rounds in
before the finals?
Yeah. Totally. I can't wait.
All right, cool.
Have a good night.
Sorry about that.
- Can you put that on my tab?
- Yeah.
Well, more for you, then.
Enjoy.
Thanks.
Ann.
It's 10:00 at night.
I know I'm a workaholic,
but why...
I know who you
should promote. Me.
Oh! I didn't realize
that was an option.
I didn't either until this week.
But I know I'm
the right candidate for the job.
I'd be more than an asset
in the field.
I would be a rock star.
I'm quick on my feet.
I'm able to analyze complex
situations in an instant.
I'm somewhat cool
under pressure.
I started this week not knowing
anything about flower arranging,
and now I'm competing
for the state title.
Wait, what, flowers?
I thought you went home
to help your dad.
What do you say, Mr. Mann?
Are you ready to make
the best decision of your life?
I'm sorry, Ann.
Sorry that I didn't
consider you sooner.
The job is yours!
Great! I'll be there
first thing Monday morning.
But first,
I have flowers to arrange.
Why do you keep
saying "flowers"?
Ann?
Doing a late-night
study session?
Toni...
Ann was right.
Real magic vibes.
Shouldn't you be
getting ready for tomorrow
instead of making
my life miserable?
Why not both?
Come on, Toni, enough.
Go home.
You'll have your chance to lose
to me with grace tomorrow.
I won't be the one losing,
Aaron. You will.
Just like you
lost the finals last year.
Just like you lost me.
- I didn't lose you.
- You most certainly did.
But it doesn't matter.
Tomorrow,
when I'm holding that cup,
watching you and what's-her-face
wallow in the shame
of a second-place finish,
I'm gonna feel
a little bit better
about you ruining
our wedding day.
You know what? I'm sorry.
You're apologizing?
I really am sorry
for the wedding.
We both said stupid stuff,
and it was unfair to
put ourselves in that position
on our wedding day.
But listen, I've moved on.
And I think you should too.
'Cause frankly, I don't know
what more you want from me.
I suppose we'll have to
settle this tomorrow.
Good night, Aaron.
Rachel...
No, no, no, no, no, Rach...
Rachel! No!
Morning, good morning,
rise and shine
Good morning!
Today is the day
I make you mine
Hey!
Who is this fun vibrant,
vivacious woman,
and what did she do to
my best friend, Ann Keller?
I'm still the same old me.
The Ann I know isn't
the bon vivant of her hometown.
OK, maybe I've changed
a little bit.
And I couldn't be
happier for you.
It's been a good week.
A really good week.
And it'll be so much better
after you win this afternoon.
Baby steps.
I still have to meet Aaron
and go over the game plan.
Maybe grab him some breakfast?
The way to a man's heart
is through his stomach.
The way to Aaron's heart
is through painstakingly
arranged peonies.
Fine. Don't listen to me.
Oh! I'm headed out to meet
the aloe vera guy
before your competition.
Morris is a doll. I'm so glad
I could connect you guys.
Seriously, you've been in
Franklin Heights one week?
And you're getting
to know the locals,
fixing problems for farmers,
partnering up with the
most handsome guy in town.
Getting a job I deserve.
No way!
I called my boss last night!
I did what you said.
I stood up for myself
and got what I wanted.
- Ann, I'm so proud of you.
- Thank you.
Oh, that's amazing.
Now all I have to do
is win the Botanic Cup,
and it will literally be
a perfect week.
Yes.
OK, I should go
meet Aaron at the shop.
I'll see you at 2:00?
Wouldn't miss it for the world.
Hey, partner!
I've got big news.
Guess who's got two thumbs,
mild iron deficiency
and her dream job?
This gal!
Aaron?
Aaron?
Are you OK?
What happened to Rachel?
I missed it.
Every night at the same time,
I come to check to
see if she's bloomed,
but last night,
I ran into Toni after dinner,
and I got here too late.
The one night Rachel
finally decided to bloom.
I'm so sorry, Aaron.
Is there anything I can do?
No.
Come on, let's go practice.
We got a competition to win.
Just give me a minute?
All right.
Practice assignment
is a bar arrangement
using at least
3 floral elements.
OK, how about we start with
a base of salix tortuosa
to give it some height?
Yeah.
And then we could stud it
with some lupine and veronicas
to make it pop.
Mm-hmm.
Are you OK?
Yeah, yeah. I'm fine.
Let's just get this started.
OK, can I get
an accordion leaf please?
Thank you.
Watch it.
I'm sorry.
Can I get the pin, please?
- Here you go.
- Thank you.
Green hydrangea
will give it nice texture.
Pair it with a dahlia?
Or is that too clich?
Ann, come on. We gotta go.
No. Eucalyptus.
It still feels like it's missing
something, some element.
Tulips or orchids, which one?
I don't know.
We got hung up here last time.
When we compete,
you gotta be decisive.
I can't.
Just choose one!
Don't set me up to fail!
I know you are upset
because you feel like
you missed out on something,
but you have to snap out of it.
If you don't get it together
for finals, we'll lose.
You just don't want to
disappoint Tom.
This isn't about my dad.
This is about me.
I have never had a chance
to win something
because I don't put myself
in a position to win.
But now I'm here,
and I'm open to trying,
and I need you to try with me.
I am trying!
That's why I'm pushing.
I know you got it in you to win.
I don't need to be pushed.
I need to be encouraged.
I am encouraging you, Ann.
If you don't meet me halfway,
we can't compete together.
Ann...
Ann!
Hey, kiddo. You OK?
What's the matter?
Aaron and I
got into a huge fight,
and I don't know
if we're gonna compete
and everything is ruined.
I'm sorry, Dad.
I don't think I can do it.
I know how much winning
the competition meant to you.
Aaron and I are like
peanut butter and gravy.
We're not compatible.
All right, all right.
Look, so you had
a bit of a setback.
So what?
I've seen how much you've
grown this week.
Your mom would be so proud.
You think so?
I know so.
You stepped in and are competing
in the biggest competition
in the state.
It's so out of
your comfort zone.
She'd be thrilled.
And it's exactly
what she would have done.
- It's scary.
- I know.
But that's good.
Change is scary.
But the only way to
really figure yourself out
is being able to change.
Your mom and I changed course
dozens of times in our life.
And I wouldn't have it
any other way.
That's how we had you.
You and Aaron make a great team.
I guess.
I know you guys
are going through
a bit of a rough patch,
but I've seen how much
you care about him.
And I know how much
he cares about you.
When the two of you are
working together and in synch,
anything is possible,
nothing can stop you.
Thanks, Dad.
You know what
this calls for, right?
Ice cream.
Ice cream would work.
- All right, I'll get it.
- No, I'll get it.
Your arm is in a cast.
It's what I'm here for,
isn't it?
I won't argue with you there.
You know, I just
don't get it, Dale.
Why does it have to be so hard?
People react differently
to adversity, Aaron.
There's no one right way.
Yeah, but she's
capable of so much.
I just wish that she could
see that in herself.
Sounds like you really care
about that girl.
Yeah, of course, I do.
- Wow.
- You're a good guy, Aaron.
But you're one of the most
guarded people I ever met.
Come on, man. I'm not.
All right,
you might be onto something.
You got these walls up that
you never let anyone peek over.
I know you had a hard time
trusting people
after you and Toni broke up.
But you shouldn't be afraid
of your feelings.
Yeah, but what if I messed up?
What if she doesn't
want to be with me
after how much of a jerk I was?
Show her you can admit
that you were wrong,
that you can be
the person she needs.
You're right.
I know what I gotta do.
Thanks so much, D.
Ann!
Ann!
You were right.
I shouldn't have pushed you.
I should have encouraged you.
I don't yell at my plants
and tell them to grow.
I sing to them. I talk to them.
I encourage them.
I still haven't heard you sing.
I missed out on
so many things in my life.
The Rose Bowl,
Rachel blooming...
this teen Jeopardy
tournament thing.
Wait, I don't know that story.
The point is
I'm not gonna miss out on you.
And I'm sorry that
I couldn't be the person
you needed me to be before,
but I'm gonna try real hard,
because I...
I want this, with you.
I believe you.
And I believe in myself.
So let's go win this thing.
- Team Rose Bowl?
- Team Rose Bowl.
Today's competition
will decide our champion.
Our finalists are
Aaron Blum and Ann Keller.
And Toni Greer and
Claudio no last name given.
You'll each have one hour
to complete your arrangement.
Your final arrangement
will be a centerpiece
that harmonizes
contrasting elements.
Three, two, one, begin!
So how about...
What about
a mitsumata structure?
We'll, uh,
stud it with ranunculus,
and then pink roses
in different shades
to give it that ombre effect.
OK.
And maybe some
dark purple calla lilies
to get a touch of drama.
And then...
suspended cymbidium orchids
to transition
from light to dark.
You got it.
- Let's get to work.
- All right.
So are these good?
Something's not working.
It's not working.
- Higher, higher.
- I'm trying. OK, wait. Just...
- Fine, OK.
- Focus. It's fine, it's fine.
I said red, you beautiful dolt.
No one speaks
to Claudio that way.
OK, so what are we gonna do
to take this over the top?
Uh...
Mom's favorite.
Hey, 8 seconds.
Oh no!
OK...
I can't get it. Oh!
Time! Pruners down, please.
You know what?
You were absolutely right.
This ties
the whole thing together.
Well, you know,
split-second decisions
under incredible pressure
are kind of my thing now.
Thank you all for competing.
You've created wonderful works
of floral art,
but in the end,
only one of you
can be crowned champion.
And the winners of
this year's Botanic Cup are...
Aaron Blum and Ann Keller!
Yes! Yes!
I knew they could do it.
We did it.
Congratulations!
Thank you. Thank you so much.
You deserve this.
Oh, congrats, girl! Oh!
You did it, Annie!
No, you did it, Dad. For you.
A week ago, I did not think
that this would be my life.
You took humongous risks.
Competing in the Botanic Cup,
going after this
promotion you wanted.
I still haven't taken
the biggest risk yet.
What's that?
Yeah, that was definitely
worth the risk.
Yeah?
Yeah, I... I don't know, Tom.
I think it's missing something.
Yeah, I see what you're saying.
Uh, what about
a couple of carnations?
- Oh, let's see that.
- Try that.
Let's see, let's see.
Ah, no, we're still not there.
We... we may need
a second opinion.
Texture.
Have you tried
seeded eucalyptus?
"I'm vibrant and wonderful,
but also down to earth."
Eucalyptus says all that?
It's the globe-trotting girl.
Still got it, Annie.
Here. I'll finish these inside.
- Thank you. Welcome home.
- Thank you.
How was your
business trip to Tulum?
Very succulent.
- Is this for me?
- It's a dragon fruit cactus.
I thought it'd be a good
companion plant to Rachel,
since they both bloom at night.
You like it?
I love it.
And when she does
decide to bloom,
we can watch it together.
There's nothing else
I'd rather do.
Why not take a look to see
who's knocking at your door?
Open up
and let your life begin
Time to dust your mind off
See what's happening today
I will show you
how much you can win
'Cause I'm
the new next thing
Your golden opportunity
Maybe you'll catch me
on the TV news this afternoon
Turn the channel,
suddenly, I'm there
Philosophizing with important
leaders of today
Taking notes
on my point of view
'Cause I'm
the new next thing
Your golden opportunity
Yes, I'm the new next thing
Don't miss your opportunity
Yes, I'm the new next thing
Your golden opportunity
Yes, I'm the new next thing
Don't miss your opportunity
And the world
keeps changing
MELS