Previously on DALLAS...
-----------Christopher and Elena are reunited in Mexico City after both agree to help the CIA bring Nicolas out into the open. But the plan goes horribly wrong when Nicolas manages to kidnap both Christopher and Elena.
-----------Tripp and Jillian grow closer when he comforts her.
-----------Nicolas cruelly torments Christopher, and plans to kill him and escape with Elena.
-----------With the world closing in on him, Nicolas makes one last stand, and is shot by Christopher...
Mexico City....
"Elena's gonna be fine," George replies. "Thankfully, the bullet just barely grazed her shoulder. She's very lucky."
"I killed him," Christopher says. "My God I can't believe I actually killed someone. I took a human life."
"Nicolas Trevino was NOT a human being. That part of him died a long time ago, Christopher. You did what you had to do. Besides, if Trevino hadn't given himself up, he would've been shot by one of our agents. The guy was scum. He wouldn't have thought twice about putting a bullet in your head. Or Elena's for that matter, baby or no baby."
Christopher starts to cry.
George reaches out and touches his shoulder. "Christopher, it's over. This whole nightmare is finally over. The Mendez-Ochoa Cartel is no more. El Pozolero is dead. Luis is dead. Trevino is dead. You and your family are safe now and can get on with your lives."
"My family," says Christopher. "I have to,...."
"I'll take care of it. You'll be back home in Dallas by this time tomorrow night."
Elena walks into the room at that moment, her shoulder bandaged. She stops in the doorway for a moment and looks at Christopher. With tears in her eyes, she walks over to him. He stands to his feet and they embrace and cry together. "Thank God you're okay," he says. "It's over. It's finally over and we can go home."
George stands and looks at the two, feeling a sense of relief and satisfaction. Then he walks out of the room, where he another agent approaches him. "Ewing okay, Boss?" The agent asks.
"He'll be fine," George replies. "What about Martinez?"
"He was roughed up pretty bad, but he'll be okay. Luckily our men arrived before they had a chance to kill him."
"Damn it. This whole operation was botched. How the hell did Trevino get one step ahead of us? A lot of lives were lost here tonight, Frank. And some of them didn't have to be."
"I know, Boss. But, we can be thankful that the cartel is finished at last. Something we've been trying to do for years."
George looks at Frank and nods in agreement, although his heart doesn't feel like celebrating the victory.
Southfork....the next morning
Bobby takes the clipboard and pen the man gives him, signs the envoice, and hands it back to him. "There you go."
"Thank you, Mr. Ewing. Almost done. Just a couple more rooms to paint, and we're done."
"That's great news, Hal. Thanks for the update and the good work."
"Yes, sir," Hal says with a smile. "Well, back to work." Hal starts back into the house and passes Ann coming out. They exchange pleasant smiles.
Ann walks out and meets Bobby by the pool. "Bobby, the house is so beautiful. I can hardly wait for the rest of the family to see it."
"Neither can I," Bobby says as a black car drives up and comes to a stop in the parking area. "Well, who can that be?"
"I don't know. Let's go find out," Ann says. She and Bobby walk over to meet their unexpected visitor. They are surprised when they see George getting out of the car. The couple exchanges puzzled looks.
"Mr. Ewing, Mrs. Ewing," George greets as he meets the couple.
"Tatangelo," Bobby says. "What on earth are you doin' here? Didn't think we'd ever be seein' you again."
"I know. Mr. Ewing, I'm here about Christopher."
"You know who blew up his car? Have you found Trevino?" Bobby asks.
"Yes, we have. Our agents raided a warehouse in Mexico City last night. Trevino was killed."
"Thank God," Ann says.
"It's about time that son of a bitch paid for murdering my son," says Bobby.
"Mr. Ewing, what I have to say, this is going to come as a big shock to you both."
"What is it?" Asks Ann. "You said it's about Christopher."
"Yes. Mr. and Mrs. Ewing, Christopher is alive."
A look of shock comes over both Bobby's and Ann's faces. "What the hell are you sayin'?" Bobby asks.
"We had men inside the cartel. We knew what they were planning. We faked Christopher's death. He's been in protective custody ever since. Now that Trevino is dead and the cartel has been destroyed, it's safe for him to come home."
Tears of joy begin streaming down the faces of both Bobby and Ann, as they embrace....
Southfork....late evening
Finally, Sue Ellen decides to break the silence. "Bobby, I absolutely love the remodeling you've done," she says. "This living room is just gorgeous. Southfork will be more beautiful than ever."
"Thank you, Sue Ellen," Bobby says. "We had planned to wait until the house was completely finished and then surprise the whole family with the unveiling, but, when we got the news this morning about Christopher, we really wanted to be reunited here at Southfork."
Emma and Lucas walk in at that moment. "Hey, everyone," Lucas says. He and Emma look around the room.
"Wow, Southfork is beautiful," Emma says.
"Is this why you called us here?" Lucas asks. "To show us the new Southfork?"
"No, Lucas," Bobby replies. "Sit down."
Lucas and Emma exchange worried looks. "Whenever someone says, 'sit down', bad news almost always follows," says Emma.
"No, this isn't bad news at all," Ann says as she stands and walks over to her daughter. "In fact, it's the best news we could have possibly received."
"Don't tell me....you're pregnant," Lucas jokes.
"No," Bobby answers with a smile. "Lucas, Emma, what we wanted to tell you is that.....Christopher is alive."
"What?" Asks a stunned Emma. "Alive? But how?"
"it's a long story and hard to explain," Ann says. "But the CIA faked Christopher's death because they knew Nicolas Trevino and the cartel were planning to try and kill him."
"Where's he been all this time?" Lucas asks.
"In protective custody," Bobby says. "The agent responsible for his protection came here this morning and gave us the news."
Before anyone can say another word, they hear the someone down the hall in the foyer. Sue Ellen stands from her seat on the sofa. She, John Ross, Bobby, Ann, Emma, and Lucas all stand together in the center of the living room as they hear two voices, one of them Christopher's. After a moment, George walks in, with Christopher and Elena following behind him. They stop in the doorway. Christopher looks at his assembled family members. Tears begin falling down Bobby's face as he looks at his son, alive and standing before him. Bobby walks toward him. Christopher meets his father and the two men embrace each other tightly. They cry together. Ann, Sue Ellen, and Emma also begin crying tears of joy. Even John Ross has a tear fall from his eye. Elena remains in the doorway.
After a moment, Bobby pulls out of the embrace and looks at his son. "My God," he says. "I just can't believe you're standing here in front of me. It's like this is a dream."
"Well, stop hogging him, Bobby," Ann says.
"Yes, give the rest of a chance," Sue Ellen adds.
Christopher hugs his stepmother and then his aunt, and then Emma. Finally, Christopher and John Ross come face to face. The two cousins look at each other for a moment, then John Ross smiles. "Welcome back to the land of the livin' cousin," he says, extending his hand to Christopher, who smiles back and shakes his cousin's hand.
"Thanks, John Ross," Christopher says. He then notices Lucas standing behind John Ross. "Wow, Lucas. I haven't seen you since you were, what....12, 13?"
"I was 14," Lucas replies. "Welcome home, man."
"Thanks." Christopher looks around the room. "Dad, I love what you've done with Southfork."
"Unfortunately, the place isn't quite ready for us to live here for a couple more days," Bobby tells his son. "We're still stayin' at The Omni."
"I don't care where I sleep tonight, as long as it's a nice soft bed, and WITHOUT someone who snores," Christopher says, looking at George.
"Hey, you're the one who could wake the dead with your snoring," George replies. "No pun intended. Hey, listen, I'm gonna get out of here and leave you to your reunion with your family."
"George, thanks for everything," Christopher says. "And I hope I never have to see your ugly face again."
George laughs. "Likewise, Ewing." The two men shake hands, George smiles at the group, then leaves.
"Well, isn't anyone gonna say anything to Elena?" Christopher asks.
"Of course, Elena, how are you?" Bobby asks.
"I'm fine, Bobby. Thank you."
Ann walks over to her. "I did some cleanin' up at your house when I heard you and Christopher would be back tonight. I kinda thought you might wanna stay there."
"Ann, thank you so much. I do. My mother will be flying in tomorrow. She didn't feel up to making the trip. I'm pretty tired, so if you and Bobby don't mind, I would like to stay there until I find another place."
"Elena, that's your home," says Bobby. "You're welcome to stay there as long as you like."
"Well, I do need to be getting home myself," says Sue Ellen. "Christopher, I can't tell you how happy it makes me to see you."
"Thanks, Aunt Sue Ellen." Christopher hugs his aunt again. Sue Ellen smiles at the group and then she and John Ross leave. After they are gone, Christopher turns to Bobby. "You know what, Dad, I think instead of going back to the hotel tonight, I'm gonna stay here at Southfork, with Elena."
"You sure, son?"
"I'm sure. She's been through a terrible ordeal, and I'd also just like to be here at Southfork."
"All right, then. Why don't you take Elena to her house, and the come back and we can talk if you want."
"Sure," Christopher replies. "I'd like that."
Later....
"What?"
"Christopher being alive all that time everyone thought he was dead."
"Yeah," Lucas says, without any emotion.
Emma looks at him. "Lucas, what's wrong?"
"Nothing. Why?"
"You haven't said two words since we left Southfork. And you don't seem very happy that Christopher's alive."
"Of course I am," he says. "It's just....how am I supposed to react?"
"With a little more happiness, maybe."
"You're also worried that his being back might threaten the new relationship you have with Bobby, aren't you?"
"That's ridiculous," Lucas says.
"Is it?" Emma asks. "Lucas, I know how you feel. It's only natural for you to have a little resentment toward him. After all, Christopher was adopted and you're Bobby's son by blood. But Christopher is the son Bobby raised."
"Yeah, thanks a lot for reminding me of that," says Lucas.
"Lucas, I'm sorry, I didn't meant to hurt you. But now that Christopher's back, you're gonna have to deal with these feelings."
"Emma, I really don't wanna talk about this anymore."
Emma looks at him for a moment, then decides it's best not to push the issue with Lucas anymore tonight.
Jillian's apartment....the next morning
"What time is it?" He asks.
"Almost 8:30."
"Why didn't you wake me when you got up?"
Jillian walks over to the bed. "Because you looked so sweet layin' there, I didn't wanna wake you. You looked just like a little boy. Besides, after the last couple of nights, you really needed your rest."
Tripp laughs as she crawls back into bed next to him. "Last couple days have been fun, haven't they?"
"Fun?" Jill asks. "Way too mild a word. How many times did we do it, anyway?"
"I lost count," Tripp replies with a smile.
"I wish we could stay like this forever," says Jillian. Tripp starts to laugh again. Jillian sits up and looks at him. "What in the world is so funny?"
"I was just thinkin'. Thinkin' of the look on my grandfather's face if he knew I was sleepin' with J.R. Ewing's daughter." Jillian finds it impossible to contain her laughter as well. They laugh cheerfully for a moment, then Tripp rolls over on top of her. "Ya know, you've got the cutest laugh," he says. He starts tickling her, causing her to laugh uproariously.
Southfork....
"Yeah. Couldn't sleep."
"I noticed. You tossed and turned for a long time. Was something bothering you?"
"Why?" Elena asks.
"I was afraid if I did, when I woke up this would all be a dream."
"No dream. This is for real. We're home, and the nightmare of the last couple of months is over."
Christopher again turns his attention to the ranch. "Just look," he says. "Look at that beautiful ranch and smell that fresh Southfork air. I never thought I'd see this place again. Or you." He turns to face her and puts his arms around her. "Last night was the most amazing night of my life."
"Christopher, I'm sorry that I couldn't....I wanted to make love to you last night," Elena says. "I don't know why I couldn't. I just...."
"Shhhh, don't," he interrupts. "Just layin' next to you last night was enough." He takes her hand. "Elena, I don't know what the future holds for us. All we can do is live for today. We've both been through hell the last couple months. And I'm not goin' anywhere. So, you can take all the time you need."
Elena runs her fingers through his black hair. She smiles at him. "I like your hair this way. Been years since you've let it get this long."
"Yeah. Since we were engaged."
"That letter you got that you thought was from me. The letter that broke us up."
"Our lives haven't been the same since," Elena says. "I got involved with John Ross, and you married Pamela. I lied to you about Drew. And then I brought Nicolas into our lives."
"Hey, listen to me," Christopher says, again taking her hand. "Our lives haven't turned out the way we planned. But that's not important now. We found each other again, and that's what's important. I love you."
"Even though I'm carrying another man's child?"
"Look at me," he says, gently touching her chin. "That child is part of you. And for that reason, I love it, too."
Elena wipes a tear from her face. "You're the most amazing man I've ever known."
"Is that so surprising?" Christopher asks with a smile. "Look at the man who raised me. Speakin' of which, my Dad should be at Southfork soon. How about I make us some breakfast?"
Elena nods. "Sounds nice."
"Come on." Christopher puts his arms around her and together, they walk into the house.
The Omni Hotel....
"Gooood morning," he says.
"Where have you been? Asks an angry Pamela. "I've been calling you since day before yesterday and all I get is your voicemail. And the desk clerk says you haven't been back here for two days."
"Calm down," Tripp says. "Because I have some news that's gonna blow you away."
"What news?"
"For two days?"
"Yeah, and what I found is really a bombshell. Turns out ol' J.R. has a daughter. And that daughter is none other than Jillian Cryder."
"You're.....you're kidding me," Pamela says.
"Nope. Kimberly's mother and J.R. had thing fling back in the late 80s when J.R. was tryin' to get his hands on Westar after Jeremy Wendell stepped down. J.R. promised ol' lady Cryder he'd marry her for control of the company."
"And then he didn't. Sounds just like J.R. And his son. But anyway, even though this is incredible news, I don't see how it's gonna help us in bringing down John Ross."
"Maybe it can't. But maybe we can find a way to use this against John Ross."
"How?" Pamela asks.
"I haven't figured that out yet. But if I can convince her to join us, maybe Jill can help. She's not real fond of her new brother right now."
"Well, thanks for the information. I"ll be going now."
"Hey, wait a second," Tripp says, grabbing Pamela by the arm as she starts to walk away. "What's the hurry? Why don't you come upstairs for a while?"
"Pamela, I need to see you," John Ross says on the other end of the line.
"I have nothing to say to you."
"It's important. This has nothin' to do with you and me. Just drop by my office at Westar. It'll only take a minute."
Pamela gives him no reply. She ends the call, puts the phone back into her pocket as she reaches her car.
Ewing Global....
"Christopher, welcome back to the office," Sue Ellen says.
"Thanks, it feels great to be back," Christopher says with a smile.
"Come on, son, let's go into my office," Bobby says. "Sue Ellen, when we're done, how about I take you, Christopher, and Lucas to lunch?"
Sue Ellen smiles. "Bobby, I'd love that."
"Great, I'll call Ann and she can meet us, too." Bobby and Christopher proceed to Bobby's office and walk in, where they find Lucas pouring himself a drink. "Lucas, how's it goin?" Bobby asks.
"Just fine," the young man replies. "What brings you guys here?"
"Christopher wanted to pay a visit to the office. I told him what a good job you've been doing holdin' the fort for me while I've been at the ranch."
"Oh, good," Lucas says, without much enthusiasm.
"Yeah, I did."
"That's great. You should be a valuable addition around here."
Lucas manages a half-hearted smile. "Thanks. So, how about you? How's it feel to return from the dead?"
Christopher laughs. "Feels great. Especially to be back in Dallas with the family."
"I'm gonna tell you guys somethin'," Bobby says. "It's long been a dream of mine to see you two together. Now that Lucas is livin' here in Dallas and you're back, Christopher, it'll be wonderful havin' both of you workin' here at Ewing Global."
"Ha, the way you and Uncle J.R. use to at Ewing Oil?" Christopher asks.
"Ummm, not exactly," Bobby asks. "I hope and trust you two would work together a little more peacefully than J.R. and I ever did." At that moment, the intercom buzzes. Bobby walks to the desk and pushes the button to answer. "Yes?"
"Mr. Ewing, you have a call on line one. Senator Matthew Culver."
"Thank you, Carol," Bobby says. He looks at Christopher. "This is the call I been waitin' for." He picks up the phone and presses the '1' button. "Matt, hey, it's Bobby. I'm doin' just fine. Well now, about that, I have some great news. Christopher's alive. Yes, he's standin' right here beside me. It's a long story and I'll explain it when I see you in person. Listen, Matt, the reason I needed to speak with you is, I'd like to set up a meeting with you. Yes, it's business. I, and most specifically, Ewing Global, need your help. Since you still have some pull with a few of your father's friends in Austin, you were the only one I could think of to call on. Well, anytime, you choose the time and place, but I do need to meet as soon as possible." Bobby listens for a moment to what Matt has to say, then he smiles. "Matt, that sounds fine. Great. I look forward to seein' you. By the way, how's that lovely mother of yours? Good. Please, give Lou Ann my regards. Okay, I'll see you then. Thanks again." Bobby hangs up the phone, still smiling.
"Matt Culver?" Christopher asks.
"Yep."
"I haven't seen him in years. What was that all about?"
"Would you mind if I sit on that meeting?" Christopher asks. "I'd love to see Matt again."
"Sure, son, I was gonna ask ya anyway," Bobby says, as Lucas looks on, annoyed. "Well, Lucas, Christopher, let's get out of here and go to lunch."
"I really have a lot of work I need to get done," Lucas says.
"Work can wait," says Bobby. "I'd like for us to have a real family lunch."
Lucas sighs. "Sure," he says. Christopher looks at his younger brother, noticing that Lucas doesn't seem very friendly toward him, or too happy that he's back.
Pamela's apartment....
"Hey, wanna come watch The Young And The Restless with me?" Cliff yells to her.
"No, thank you," Afton replies as she starts unpacking the groceries.
"I remember you use to love that show back when we were together. Never missed it as I recall."
"That was a long time ago, Cliff. Things change."
"What did you buy at the grocery store?" Cliff asks.
"If you would get up off your ass and come help me put the groceries away, you wouldn't have to ask!" Yells a frustrated Afton.
Cliff mutes the television, gets up, and walks into the kitchen. "What's the matter with you?"
"Oh my God, you really have to ask? YOU are what's wrong with me, Cliff."
"How so?"
"All you have done since I've been here is sit around watching television and doing absolutely nothing."
"For your information, I AM doing something," Cliff says. "I happen to be making plans."
"What sort of plans?" Afton asks.
"Plans to take my company back from the Ewings and to make them pay for sending me to prison for J.R.'s murder. And even if I did kill J.R., I should get a medal for ridding the world of that man."
Afton sighs in frustration. "It's completely beyond me how ONE person can be so totally stuck on himself."
At that moment, they hear the door of the apartment open and close. "Well, Pammy's home," Cliff says. "Thank goodness, because your cheerful company was beginning to get on my nerves." Cliff walks into the living room, followed by Afton. "Hello, sweetheart," Cliff says.
"Hi, Daddy. Mom," Pamela says.
"Pam, what's wrong?" Afton asks. "You seem upset about something."
Pamela looks at her parents. "No, I'm not, I'm just....in shock."
"What is it?" Cliff asks.
"I have some news. Actually, I received two pieces of shocking news this morning. Seems to be a day for it."
"Well don't keep us in suspense," says Afton.
"Alright, I'll give you the LEAST shocking news first. It turns out that J.R. Ewing has a daughter that no one knew about."
"That's not very surprising," says Cliff. "Especially since J.R. bedded more than half the women in Dallas, including your mother."
Afton gives Cliff a very angry look.
"J.R.'s daughter is Jillian Cryder, the daughter of Kimberly Cryder. Jillian was CEO of Westar until John Ross recently unseated her in his little coup."
"What's the other news?" Afton asks.
Both Cliff and Afton's faces express their shock at the news. "Alive?" Cliff asks.
"How?" Asks Afton.
"According to John Ross, the explosion, Christopher's death, everything, was staged by the CIA. Christopher was in protective custody all that time. But, the other night, Nicolas Trevino was killed in Mexico and the remaining members of the cartel were either killed or captured. And Christopher is back in Dallas."
"My God, that's wonderful news," says Afton.
Cliff, apparently stunned speechless, walks over and takes a seat in a chair. "I.....I just....." he says, unable to get his thoughts out.
"Daddy, are you alright?" Pamela asks.
Cliff looks at his daughter. "I'm better than alright. That really is great news."
"I thought you hated the Ewings," Afton says.
Afton gives Cliff a strange look, almost as if she's beginning to see a new side, a softer side, to him.
The Omni Hotel...that night
"What's wrong?" He asks.
"Nothing."
"Something is. You still sore from the surgery? You sure you're up to sex this soon?"
"I'm fine. I'm not sore," Emma replies, nervously.
Lucas begins to kiss her again as he runs his hand down her neck, to her breasts, and then down her body. Emma begins to breath heavily, but not as if she's enjoying Lucas's touch. She appears to be upset. Finally, she pushes Lucas off of her and gets out of bed, turning away from him.
"Nothing. I guess I'm not ready to make love again just yet."
Lucas gets out off the bed and walks over to her. He puts his hands on her shoulders, and Emma shutters from his touch. "Emma, what is it? And don't tell me you're just not ready yet. I can accept that, but you act as if you're afraid or something. You shiver every time I touch you. You didn't act this way the first time we made love. What's changed?"
"Lucas, I just had major surgery a few weeks ago. It's just too soon."
"I don't buy that," Lucas says. "I've gotten to know you pretty well, Emma Ryland. I do remember you being a little....I dunno....shy the first time we had sex, but not like this. Emma, I want you." Lucas starts kissing her neck.
"Stop, please!" Emma cries.
"What the hell is wrong with you all of a sudden?" Lucas asks. "You've been fine up until now. Until we decided to make love again, and now you're actin' all weird."
"Emma, if you're not ready to have sex again so soon after your surgery, I can understand and accept that. But at least talk to me about it. Let me hold you..." Lucas reaches out to her, but she pulls away. Lucas throws his hands up, then walks to the window and looks out. After a moment, he turns back to face Emma.
"Do I repulse you or something?" He asks.
"Of course not. Lucas, you are the most amazing and wonderful man I've ever known."
"Then why does it make you cringe when I touch you?"
Emma doesn't answer. She turns her face away from him. Lucas looks at her for a moment, then grabs his jeans off the floor and slips them on. Then he grabs his shirt and puts it on. He walks to the door. "Where are you going?" Emma asks.
"Out for a walk," he replies. "I need some air." He opens the door and starts to leave, then looks at Emma. "Would you be actin' this way right now if I were John Ross?" He asks, then leaves without another word to her. Lucas's words break Emma's heart. She picks up her blouse off the floor, slips it on over her bra, then lays down on the bed and begins crying.
The next morning....
"Well I for one, would rather have YOUR cooking than this hotel's any time," Bobby says.
"Always did know how to make a girl feel good," Ann says with a smile.
"I certainly try."
Ann laughs. "I sure did enjoy lunch yesterday, with ALMOST the whole family."
"So did I," Bobby agrees. "I was thinkin' as soon as we get back home, that first night we're gonna have to have everybody over for a big family dinner."
"I'd like that. Which reminds me, I have to start plannin' our yearly barbecue."
Bobby smiles. "I hadn't even thought that much about it. But you're right. Especially now that Christopher is back with us, we definitely have to have a barbecue. A big one, like the old days."
"Bobby, was it just me or did you notice that Lucas was kinda quiet durin' lunch yesterday?"
"Yeah, I did notice that," he replies. "He seemed to have somethin' botherin' him even before lunch."
"I wonder if it's Christopher."
Bobby looks at his wife. "What do you mean?"
"In the last couple weeks, you and Lucas have been gettin' pretty close, spendin' a lot of time together. Now that Christopher's back, maybe Lucas thinks he's gonna be left out."
"That's ridiculous. I'm not gonna let that happen."
"I hope not, Bobby. Lucas is still pretty vulnerable. I'm real glad he's there for Emma. She needs him right now, and I think he's been good for her."
"I think so, too," Bobby says as a knock comes at the door.
"I'll get it," Ann says, getting up from the table. She walks to the door and opens it and finds Emma there. "Emma, good morning."
"Morning," Emma says. "Can I come in?"
"Sure," replies Ann. Emma walks into the suite. "Would you like some breakfast?"
"No, thank you. I just need to talk."
"Well, you're in luck," says Bobby as he gets up from the table. "I need to be gettin' to Southfork anyway." He kisses Ann, then kisses Emma on the cheek. "I'll see you both this evening."
"Bye," Ann says. After Bobby leaves, Ann turns to her daughter. "How about some coffee?"
"Sure."
Ann walks to the table and pours two cups, handing one to Emma. "Have a seat." They both sit down at the table, and Emma takes a sip of her coffee. "What did you need to talk about?"
"It's about Lucas."
"Sort of," Emma replies. "Look, maybe we shouldn't talk about this. I just,.....I need to talk to someone, and I don't have anyone else. I could never talk to my grandmother about this and I don't have any friends."
Ann smiles. "Sweety, you can talk to me about anything. You should know that by now. What was the fight about?"
Emma looks at her mother. "We were gonna spend the night together last night. First time since before the accident. But when Lucas started to make love to me, I pushed him away. I hurt him, Ann. When he touched me, it made me shiver. He walked out on me. The look on his face was one of hurt." Emma starts to cry.
"Honey, what is it? Why did you push Lucas away? Were you concerned about the surgery? Your scar? That it would make you seem less attractive to him?"
"No, that's not it at all."
Ann reaches out and touches her daughter's hand. "Tell me."
"The first time Lucas and I made love, right after we met, it was......it was so uncomfortable for me. But I just went through the motions. Oh, I know what you're thinking. This doesn't sound like the Emma I know. The little nympho who seduced John Ross and broke up his marriage to Pamela."
"That's not what I'm thinkin' at all. But I am worried about you. Emma, I can tell, somethin's botherin' you. I could tell that even before the accident. Ever since....."
"Ever since I came home from Mexico," Emma finishes the sentence.
"Yes."
Emma looks at her mother and starts to cry. "How am I ever gonna get over this? How am I ever gonna have sex with Lucas or any man again and enjoy it? How can I tell Lucas?"
Ann gets up and walks over to her. "Emma, whatever it is, you have to tell me. Somethin' happened to you in Mexico after they let me go, didn't it? Somethin' bad."
Emma looks at her and nods, her face wet with tears. "Luis. He....."
"Oh my God," Ann gasps. "Emma, did Luis...."
Emma nods. "He raped me. He raped me. Oh God, it was so awful and I felt so dirty afterwards. And now, I can't even sleep with the man I'm falling in love with."
"Oh, sweetheart," Ann says, embracing her daughter as Emma cries. After a moment, Ann takes Emma's face in her hands. "Emma, you have to tell him. You have to tell Lucas."
"Ann, I can't. I can't tell him."
"Listen to me. You said you're startin' to fall in love with this young man. Do you think he feels the same about you?"
"Yes," Emma replies in tears.
"Then you have to get through this, and you have to do it together. Emma, that's the only way. I don't know Lucas that well yet. But I do know one thing. If that boy feels the same about you as you do about him, then he's not gonna think any less of you. This was NOT your fault."
"Maybe it was."
"Don't ever let me hear you say that again."
"I don't believe that for one minute," says Ann. "We all make mistakes. But I don't believe life punishes us for them so cruelly." Ann again embraces her daughter as Emma cries.
Omni Hotel gym....later
"Tripp McKay," he says.
Hearing Christopher's voice, Tripp stops his workout and looks around.
"That's right. I heard you were back in Dallas."
"How'd you know I'd be here?"
"I asked the desk clerk," Christopher replies.
Tripp grabs a towel and wipes the sweat from his face. "Forgive me if I don't jump for joy at your return. But under the circumstances, I'd rather have my brother back."
"I'm really sorry about Hunter. But your brother brought it on himself, man. He got involved with the Mendez-Ochoa Cartel, and that's what got him killed."
Tripp looks at him. "I want whoever's responsible for my brother's death to pay."
"Tripp, the cartel is destroyed. The leaders of the gang are all dead, and other members are also either dead or in jail. They HAVE paid for Hunter's death, and everything else."
"The cartel may have paid," Tripp says. "But the Ewings haven't."
"What the hell's that supposed to mean?" Christopher asks.
"My brother wouldn't have gotten involved with the cartel if it hadn't been for the Ewings."
"I'd heard that you were here in Dallas on your grandfather's behalf to reignite his old feud with my family. I see my father was right."
"Reignite?" Tripp asks. "That feud never ended, Christopher. Because of your family, your father in particular, I never knew MY father."
"That's bull. My dad had NOTHING to do with Tommy McKay's death. I came here to talk to you, hopin' maybe I could bring you some sort of peace of mind about your brother's death by letting you know his killers paid for it. But I see you're too damned bitter by stories your grandfather told you about my family to see reason."
"Get out of here, Christopher," Tripp says.
"I'm warning you, McKay. Don't start anything with my family. There's a whole lot more of us Ewings than there are McKays."
Tripp stands face to face with Christopher. "Okay, now let me warn you. I'm gonna destroy the Ewings. Not sure how yet, but I will. Starting with your cousin John Ross. Then I'll move on to you and your daddy. Pay Bobby Ewing back for what he did to my father and my aunt. Consider that a promise. If it takes me the rest of my life." Tripp grabs his towel, then brushes past Christopher, who watches him in anger as Tripp leaves the gym.
Southfork....Elena's cottage
"Elena," he says.
She sighs. "John Ross, what are you doing here?"
"Came to see you," John Ross replies, looking down at her growing stomach. "And from the looks of things, I'm glad I did."
"John Ross, go away. I'm in no mood to deal with you."
"Elena, we need to talk."
She hesitates a moment, then finally steps aside and lets him in. She closes the door. "Make this fast, I was just about to eat."
"And your point?"
"How far along are you?"
"That's none of your business. Why are you so interested?"
"Come on, Elena. Itn't it obvious? Is there any chance that baby's mine?"
"No," Elena replies.
"Well, now, I'd say you were at least three months along. And you and I slept together right around that time. Remember that night, Elena? That night you seduced me and stole that letter J.R. wrote?"
"I sure didn't hear you complainin' at the time. Or any of those other times you shared my bed."
"Get out, John Ross," Elena says.
"Not goin' anywhere til we settle this."
"There is NOTHING to settle."
"Oh, but there is. I think there's an outside chance that baby you'r carryin' could be mine," John Ross says. "I know we only slept together that one night, but we didn't use protection."
"You are not this baby's father."
"So you're tellin' me, you'd rather go on sayin' that a murderer is the father of your kid? A man who killed your own brother? I may not be your favorite person in the world, but at least I never killed anybody. And I am alive, as opposed to Nicolas."
"A dead father would be better than you. Now get out."
John Ross smiles. "I'll go. For now. But this aint over. One way or another I'm gonna find out if that baby is mine."
"Even if it is, you'll never have anything to do with this baby."
"Don't bet on that, Elena," John Ross says as he opens the door and starts to leave. He turns back to her. "I wanted Westar, I went after it, and I got it. Just like my daddy, I always get what I want. Sure would be somethin' if that baby's a boy. John Ross Ewing IV." He smiles at her, then leaves.
After John Ross is gone, Elena locks the door and starts to cry.
That night....
"Yeah. How'd you know I'd be here?"
"I know this is where you like to come when you need to think."
Lucas turns to face her. "I've fallen in love with you, Emma Ryland," he says sadly. "I thought you were feelin' the same about me. Guess I was wrong."
"No, you weren't. I love you too, Lucas Krebbs. I have since almost the first moment I saw you."
"Then what is the problem? Last night, I wanted to make love to you and you pushed me away. Every time I touched you, it's like I made your skin crawl. I noticed that the first time we made love, but, in a couple minutes, everything was okay. I just thought then it was because we'd just met."
Emma shakes her head. "No, that's not it. Lucas, I want you to know this has nothing, and I mean NOTHING to do with you."
"Emma, look, if it's because of your surgery....the scar....that doesn't matter to me. You're still the most beautiful woman I've ever known."
Emma fights back tears. Lucas tries to put his arms around her, but she again pulls away.
"Damn it, Emma!" Lucas says in frustration. "How am I supposed to help you if you won't let me in? You say you love me, but my touch repulses you so much?"
"This is so hard for me to say. It's the hardest thing I've ever had to say to anyone."
"There's nothing you can't tell me."
Emma takes a deep breath as she looks Lucas in the eye. "You know about my kidnapping a while back."
"Yes. You were held captive down in Mexico by those same people responsible for tryin' to kill Christopher."
"That's right," Emma says. "Lucas, when I was there, one of the men, the leader, he....." She stops as she fights back tears.
"He what?" Lucas asks. "Emma, did he hurt you?"
"Yes," she says, crying. "He....he raped me. That's why, when you touch me, it just makes me remember what Luis did to me."
"Oh my God," Lucas says. "Oh, God, Emma. I'm so sorry, I had no idea it could be anything like that. I understand now."
"I want so much to be able to let you hold me, and make love to me. And enjoy it. You're nothing like that animal who raped me, so I don't understand why it's so hard for me."
"It's hard because it was the most traumatic experience of your life. Emma, any woman would have a hard time being intimate after that."
"I really don't know what I did to deserve you," says Emma. "Could you just.....hold me?"
Lucas nods, puts his arms around Emma and embraces her as they both look out over the beautiful city of Dallas illuminated against the cold night sky.
Pamela's apartment....the next morning
"Cliff," she greets, somewhat coldly.
"Where's Pam?"
"She left already. Said she had something to take care of."
"Oh? Like what?" Cliff asks.
"I don't know, Cliff, she didn't tell me."
"Where are you headed?"
Afton sighs. "What's with all the questions? Not that it's any of your business, but I'm going out to do a little shopping."
Cliff smiles. "Mind some company?"
"As a matter of fact, I do mind," Afton says.
"Hey, come on. I promise I won't bother you at all. I'd just like to get out of this apartment for a while today, and wouldn't mind havin' a little company. Especially the company of a beautiful woman."
"It's not all of a sudden," Cliff says. "I've always thought you were beautiful. Probably more so now than you were thirty years ago."
Afton doesn't acknowledge the compliment, but picks up her purse and walks to the door.
"Afton, come on. Look, I'll even buy you lunch. All I want is just some company. Who knows when Pamela will be home, and I don't really wanna sit here in this apartment all by myself today watching TV."
She pauses a moment, lets out a deep breath, then looks at him. "Fine. Come on."
"Great," Cliff says with a smile. "Just give me a minute to change, and I'll be ready."
"Okay, but I'm warning you, Cliff. The first time you get on my nerves, I'm leaving you downtown and you can take a taxi back."
"Agreed," says a happy Cliff. He heads back into his bedroom to change clothes.
Southfork....
"Morning," he says.
"Morning. I woke up and you were gone. Why'd you let me sleep so late?"
"I couldn't sleep, so I got up early and went out riding, I didn't disturb you because you didn't sleep too well last night," Christopher replies.
"Neither did you. I heard you moaning in your sleep at one time."
"You had a nightmare?"
Christopher nods.
"You had one the other night too, didn't you?" Elena asks.
He remains silent.
"Was it about Mexico? Nicolas's death?"
"I'm fine."
"Christopher, I know how hard this is for you. You can talk to me."
"There's nothin' to talk about, Elena. I'm fine. Sure, I've had a couple nightmares, but, that's to be expected after what happened in Mexico City the other night."
"It's bothering you, isn't it?" Elena asks. "Nicolas's death."
"Why should that be bothering me? The guy was scum, he got what he deserved."
"That may be true. But you killed him, Christopher. I can tell that's on your mind."
"Okay, so what if it is?" Christopher asks. "I...I've never killed anyone before. Of course that's on my mind. But I did what I had to do. And I really don't wanna talk about this anymore. Besides, I'm curious to know why you had such a restless night."
Elena hesitates a moment before answering, preferring not to upset Christopher further this morning by telling him about John Ross's visit the previous day. "It's nothing," she finally says. "Like you, I can't stop thinking about our ordeal in Mexico City."
Christopher puts his arms around her and embraces her. Then he looks at his watch. "I have to get a shower and get dressed. I'm meeting Dad in town later. We're having lunch with an old family friend, Matt Culver. After lunch, I'll be back, and we can spend some time together."
"Sure, I'l like that," she says. Christopher kisses her, then heads into the bathroom. A moment later, Elena hears the sound of the shower running.
Reunion Tower....later
"Hello," she says.
Tripp looks up and smiles. "Hi. Have a seat."
Pamela sits down across from him. "Why'd you wanna see me?"
"Guess you paid me a visit yesterday," he says.
"Hmmmmm, let me see.....Jillian Cryder?" Pamela asks sarcastically.
Tripp laughs. "No. Christopher."
"Really? What was that all about?"
"Oh, he just dropped by to see if he could head off a coming fight between his family and me," Tripp replies. "But I made it clear I wasn't gonna back off. I intend to follow through on my threat to see the Ewings destroyed."
"I would really prefer that Christopher not be a part of this after what he's just been through," says Pamela. "Our fight is with John Ross. And, to a lesser extent, Bobby and Sue Ellen.
"My fight is with that whole damned family. Because of them, I never knew my father. I'm surprised to hear you feeling so soft on one of the Ewings. Look at everything they've done to your family, all the way back to your grandfather."
"I know that. But Christopher and I.....let's just say I'll always feel a special bond with him."
"That because you were married to him, or because of his connection to the Barnes family?" Tripp asks.
"Neither. It's because of what we shared. The pain and loss we shared."
"What are you talking about?"
"When Christopher and I were married, I became pregnant," Pamela says after a moment. "We were going to have twins."
"What happened?"
"There was an accident. Well, it wasn't an accident. We were on a Ewing rig, and the rig was sabotaged. There was a bomb on the rig, and it exploded. I miscarried."
"My God," Tripp says. "Pamela, I'm so sorry. I can understand your connection to Christopher. Why didn't you tell me this?"
"Why? What difference does it make?"
"Because I'd like to know stuff about you," Tripp says, reaching across the table and taking her hand. "I mean, since I've been in Dallas you and I have gotten pretty close."
"I thought so, too," says Pamela.
"Hey, what does that mean? Wait, are you still pissed off about me spendin' time with Jill?"
Tripp smiles. "I think you're jealous."
"Jealous? Of what?"
"Well, I mean....."
"Tripp, let me make one thing perfectly clear," Pamela breaks in. "You and I slept together, but it meant NOTHING. It was just sex. Our relationship is just a business one. We're in business together to try and find a way to hurt the Ewings. Mainly that lying, cheating, backstabbing husband of mine. Other than that, you mean nothing to me." Pamela gets up, then looks down at Tripp, who remains seated. "As a matter of fact, I seriously doubt that I will ever let myself get close enough or emotionally involved enough with any man to get hurt again." Without another word, Pamela turns and leaves. The arrogant smirk has effectively been wiped from Tripp's face.
The Cattlemen's Club...
"You know, boys," Bobby says. "This was your granddaddy's favorite watering hole back in the old days. I can't tell you how many lunches and dinners J.R. and I had with him here. In fact, before the Oil Baron's Club opened around, Oh, I guess '82, The Cattleman's Club was THE favorite gathering place for the in-crowd."
"I remember my Dad......Ray.....telling me a lot of stories about big oil deals, land deals, and any other kind of deals you could think of being made right here," Lucas says.
Bobby laughs. "He's right. J.R. and my Daddy made some of their biggest deals right here in this very room."
"Hey, Dad, there comes Matt," Christopher says.
Bobby turns around and sees Matt Culver walk into the restaurant. The hostess leads Matt over to the Ewings' table. Bobby stands to greet him. "Matt, it's great to see ya," Bobby says, shaking the younger man's hand.
"Bobby, always great to see you," says Matt, a man of about thirty-five.
"You remember my son, Christopher."
"Of course I do, what's up, Christopher," Matt says, shaking Christopher's hands.
"Matt, it's been a long time."
"Yes it has," Matt says. "And.......Lucas?"
"Sup, Matt," says Lucas.
"Dude, I haven't seen you since you were what, like 16 or 17?"
"Yeah, it's been a while," agrees Lucas.
Matt takes a seat at the table. "Matt, I really wanna thank you for agreein' to meet with us so soon," Bobby says.
"Your daddy was a real good man, and a good friend," says Bobby.
"Yes he was," agrees Matt. "I sure miss him. Hard to believe he's been gone almost ten years."
"I know what you mean."
"Well, Bobby, what is it you wanted to talk to me about?" Matt asks.
"Matt," says Bobby. "The reason I asked to meet you is because of our new railroad commissioner."
"Judith Ryland?"
"That's right. Our company, Ewing Global, recently got a drilling variance to drill on our fields down in Lubbock, but Judith Ryland has had that variance rescinded."
"Oh? Why's that?"
"What kind of vendetta?"
"You've met my wife, Ann, haven't you?" Bobby asks.
"Yes I have. Beautiful lady."
Bobby smiles. "Thank you. My wife was formerly married to Judith's son, Harris Ryland. There's been a lot of bad blood between our two families for a couple years now. Anyway, when Sue Ellen and I took control of Ewing Global and I had to resign my office as commissioner,, it ticked off John Ross. He and Judith formed some kind of unholy alliance, and he convinced her to pull some strings with the governor, and Judith had herself appointed as commissioner."
"And since John Ross controls Westar now and he's no longer involved in Ewing Global, I'm sure he's pulling Judith's strings, to make things difficult for us." says Christopher.
"Hmmm, interesting," says Matt.
"Which is what Judith wants," Christopher adds.
Matt looks at the Ewings across the table and nods. "What is it you want me to do?"
"Matt, you must know some way to get Judith Ryland out of the commissioner's job. Now we're not askin' to have somebody placed in there of our choosing, only that someone be appointed as commissioner who'll be fair to everyone and not act out of vengeance or personal grudges."
"And no reason was given for rescinding the variance?" Matt asks.
"None that made any sense," replies Bobby.
"Bobby, let me look into this. I'm on several committees in Austin, and I have a lot of connections through my father and mother. I'll check into it and get back to you."
"Thank you, Matt. And soon as you can, please,"
"Soon," Matt says.
Meanwhile, across the room, Cliff and Afton are finishing their lunch. "Well, that was delicious," Cliff says. "Always did enjoy eating here in the old days. Sure glad they opened this place back up."
"I'm ready to go, Cliff," Afton says.
"Sure. Come on." Cliff and Afton stand, and start to leave. Cliff stops when he spots the Ewings and Matt across the room. "Afton, hold on a minute," he says.
"What is it?" She asks.
"I see someone I wanna say hello to," Cliff says with a smile.
Afton looks over and sees Bobby. "Cliff, no. I'm warning you, do NOT make a scene."
"No scene. I just wanna say hello to my old friend Bobby Ewing and my nephew Christopher." A smiling Cliff heads over to their table. A frustrated Afton follows. Still smiling ear to ear, Cliff reaches the Ewing table. "Well, look who's here," he says as Afton walks up behind him.
A look of anger immediately crosses Bobby's face when he sees his old enemy. "What the hell are you doin' here, Barnes?"
"Same as you. Havin' lunch. Just thought I'd come over say hello to my nephew. Christopher, sure is good to see you back, and see you alive."
Christopher just shoots his uncle an angry look but says nothing.
"Cliff, let's go," Afton says, grabbing him by the arm.
"In a minute."
"Afton, I must say I'm surprised to see you with this clown again, especially after everything he's done," says Bobby.
"I haven't done anything that's worse than what you Ewings have done all your lives. And who are these two guys with you?" Cliff asks, turning to Matt and Lucas.
"Matt Culver," says Matt.
"Culver? Wait a minute, are you Dave Culver's boy?"
"That's right."
"I knew your daddy very well. He was a close friend of mine. I'm Cliff Barnes." He then looks at Lucas. "And who might you be?"
"None of your damned business, Cliff," says an angry Bobby.
"Lucas Krebbs."
"Lucas....Lucas Krebbs. You're Bobby's kid by Jenna Wade. Well, Bobby, looks like all your chicks have home to roost. Young Mr. Culver, do you know you're havin' lunch with a man who framed me for a murder I didn't commit?"
Bobby quickly stands to face his foe. "Cliff, I suggest you get the hell out of here right now."
"What are you gonna do, Bobby? Beat up an old man right here in the middle of this restaurant in front of a hundred witnesses? Or maybe knock off another one of your family members and pin the blame on me?"
"Afton, if you don't wanna have to pick this piece of scum up off the floor, I suggest you get him out of here," Bobby says.
"Cliff, let's go," Afton says, grabbing Cliff by the arm. "NOW!"
"Alright, I'll go," says Cliff. "But you're not gonna get rid of me again, Bobby. I'm gonna let the whole world know what you did to me and what your wife did to me."
A puzzled looks comes over Christopher's face.
"Cliff, come on! I mean it!" Afton says, losing her patience.
"Enjoy your lunch, Bobby!" Cliff says as Afton drags him away by the arm.
"Dad, what was he talkin' about?" Christopher asks. "What did Ann do to him?"
"Nothin'," Bobby says, looking worried as he retakes his seat. "He's just spoutin' off like always. Matt, I'm real sorry about that scene."
"It's okay, Bobby, really," says Matt. "I see that old Barnes/Ewing feud I've heard about all my life is still going on."
"Unfortunately, yes," Bobby says as Christopher and Lucas exchange worried and puzzled looks.
Pamela's apartment....
"I cannot BELIEVE you did that!" She says angrily as she tosses some of the packages she had bought onto the sofa.
"Did what?" Cliff asks, as if he's completely clueless.
"Did what?" Afton repeats in a near shout. "You deliberately went over there and forced that confrontation with Bobby after I specifically asked you not to."
"Afton, come on, calm down."
"DON'T TELL ME TO CALM DOWN, CLIFF!"
"Bobby Ewing destroyed my life," Cliff says. "What the hell am I supposed to do, just forget that he framed me for murder and left me to rot in that stinking hellhole in Mexico? I'm sorry, but I'm not gonna forget that, and I won't let it go."
"Alright, that's fine!" Afton yells. "I understand how you feel. You want revenge on the Ewings for what they did to you, but forcing an embarrassing confrontation in the middle of a crowded restaurant is NOT the way to do it. You want revenge? Then get it, but not that way!"
Cliff looks at her and smiles. "You know, you're still as beautiful as ever when you're angry."
Afton gives him an angry glare, as if she's ready to kill him. "OOOHHH! You're still the same impossible, exasperating man I lived with all those years ago! You haven't changed one bit in thirty years, Cliff. No, I take that back. You HAVE changed. You're worse now!"
Without warning, Cliff grabs Afton by the back of the neck, pulls her close to him, and forces a kiss. After a moment, Afton pulls out of the kiss and slaps Cliff hard across the face. They look deeply into each others' eyes for a moment, Afton still angry, and suddenly, she pulls him back into a very passionate kiss. The two move to the sofa, still locked in the kiss, and they push all of Afton's packages onto the floor. They sink onto the sofa, still devouring each other like two teenagers in heat.....