As Jack contemplates taking his dream job far away from Cedar Cove, Stan separates from his wife and returns to town hoping to win Olivia back. Meanwhile, Maryellen does some sleuthing to find out what is in John's past and Grace finally decides to come clean to Olivia about the kiss she shared with Will.

Christmastime is here, and Cedar Cove is a flurry of activity. Justine is shocked to learn Warren is under investigation by the FBI. She and Seth fear all is lost when it looks like their new restaurant is the target of arson. Eric finally turns up in town, and Jack is eager to help his son become a responsible father. While Grace does her best to make up for past mistakes with Cliff, Maryellen finally tracks down the elusive John Bowman.