Previously on DALLAS:
----------Elena admitted to Christopher that she is carrying John Ross's baby. An angry Christopher walked out on her, prompting Elena to go away, leaving a goodbye note for Christopher.
----------John Ross asked Bum to track down Elena.
----------Ray had a nostalgic reunion with his ex-wife Donna, while Jenna decided she wants to move back to Dallas to be near Lucas.
----------An angry Margaret confronted John Ross about his digging into her past.
----------Christopher convinced Emma to talk to Ann and hear her side of the story.
Southfork....
Bobby is coming down the stairs at Southfork when Ann walks into the foyer. She pauses for a moment as they look at each other.
"Honey, where have you been?" Bobby asks, walking over to her. "I've been worried."
"Bobby, I saw Emma. I finally got to talk to her."
"And? How'd it go?"
Ann smiles. "It went great. She's forgiven me for not tellin' her the truth."
"Oh, honey, that's great," says Bobby. "I knew she would. So, is she comin' home?"
"Not just yet. She needs a little more time, to think. But Bobby, as long as she doesn't hate me anymore, I'll give her all the time and space she needs."
Bobby smiles. "It's about time we had some good news around here for a change. Oh, by the way, this came today." He walks over and picks up an envelope on the table by the front door.
"What's this?" Ann asks.
"Our invitation to the Oil Baron's Ball," Bobby replies. "This family hasn't been to the Oil Baron's in years. I think it's high time we made a return."
"I think so, too," Ann says with a smile.
Jillian's apartment.....later....
"I know you're probably angry at me right now," Tripp says.
"Gee, what makes ya think that?" Jillian asks sarcastically. "Because you went to the Ewing Barbecue as MY date, but spent most of the day dancing with Pamela Barnes, and then left with her."
"Your so-called brother threw me off Southfork, remember? And I didn't see you bending over backwards to come to my defense."
"Why should I have? It was obvious you wanted to be there with HER and not me,"
"That's not true," says Tripp.
"Just leave," Jillian says.
"Oh, sure, we did," says Jill. "We had some really great sex. But other than that, what did we have? Lies? I thought you cared about me, but apparently all the time you were acting like you cared for me, you were going back and forth between me and Pamela Barnes. I don't need a man like that in my life. I've had enough of those kind."
"Jill...."
"Get out, Tripp," Jillian says.
Tripp looks at her for a moment, then smiles slightly. As he starts to leave, he turns back to her. "You know, Jill, you're a beautiful woman. But a lonely one. Maybe one of these nights when you're alone and need a man in your bed, you'll give me a call," he says arrogantly.
"That'll NEVER happen," Jillian says.
Tripp smiles. "Never say never. Winter's comin'. Those long, cold nights can get awful lonely for someone like you. I'll be seein' ya." Still smiling, Tripp walks out, leaving Jillian both angry and frustrated.
Southfork....the next morning
"Mornin', cousin," John Ross says cheerfully as the two walk out of the sliding glass doors onto the patio.
"John Ross," says Christopher. As they take a seat on the breakfast table on the patio, Bobby and Ann walk out of the other sliding glass door leading to the kitchen, Ann carrying a a tray of food which she places on the table.
"Mornin',boys," Bobby says.
"Dad," Christopher says. "Ann, that smells delicious."
"Well, thank you," Ann says as she and Bobby take their seats at the table. "Christopher, I also wanna thank you for what you did yesterday."
"What'd I do?"
"Emma called me yesterday afternoon," Ann replies. "She wanted to talk. "She said that you came by and talked to her and convinced her to listen to what I had to say. Christopher I can't thank you enough for that."
Christopher smiles. "It was my pleasure."
"Reg'lar good samaritan, aren't you, Christopher?" John Ross asks. "And you haven't even asked if I've had any luck findin' Elena."
"Alright," Bobby says. "Now before this goes any further I suggest we all just calm down and eat our breakfast in peace."
"No worries, Uncle Bobby," John Ross says, standing from his seat. "I've gotta get goin' to the office early anyway. I have a big meetin' this mornin' with Foskey International. Remember them, Uncle Bobby? I believe Ewing Global was competin' with Westar for their cold weather drillin' technology?"
Bobby looks at his nephew angrily.
"If y'all will excuse me," John Ross continues. He takes a sip of his coffee and a bit of a cinnamon role, then walks away.
"I'll be right back," Bobby says as he stands. He follows John Ross out to his car. "John Ross, I wanna talk to you."
"Not now, Uncle Bobby. I'll be late," John Ross says, opening the door of his car.
"This will only take a second. I been wantin' to discuss this with you since Saturday but we've had too much else goin' on around her. I spoke with Senator Matt Culver at the barbecue the other day. Donna and Margaret were with him. They informed me of your twisted plan to blackmail Matt into doin' your bidding down in Austin."
If you're gonna threaten me, Uncle Bobby, just save it," John Ross says. "Uncle Ray already beat you to it."
"I don't know what you're up to, young man. But I'm not gonna let you hurt Matt Culver. He's a good and honest man, just like his daddy was. And I'm sure as hell not gonna let you hurt Margaret."
John Ross sighs. "Ya know, Uncle Bobby, this fam'ly would be a whole lot happier if everyone would just relax a little bit instead of always worryin' about what I'm up to. You have a good day, Uncle Bobby." John Ross smiles at his uncle, then gets in his car and drives off.
Pamela's apartment....
"Gooood morning," he says cheerfully.
"Morning. I didn't mean to sleep so late."
"Late? It's only 8:30. I made breakfast."
"Where's Pamela?" Afton asks, sitting down at the table. She pours herself a cup of coffee.
"I dunno," Cliff replies. "She left about twenty minutes ago. She seemed kinda happy."
"She has every right to be," Afton says. taking a sip of her coffee.
"What do you mean?" Cliff asks.
"She didn't tell you?"
"No, she didn't tell me anything." Cliff takes a seat at the table across from her.
"John Ross finally agreed to give her an amicable divorce," Afton says.
"Cliff, I know you hate John Ross, and I'm not crazy about him these days, either, but how can you be so happy? Pamela really loved him."
"LOVED being the word, Afton. Past tense. That guy cheated on her and treated her like dirt. She's well rid of his sorry ass. And how can I be so happy? I can be this happy, my dear, because I have another daughter who, thanks to you now knows I'm her father, I'm out of that stinking prison in Mexico, and I'm staying here with the two most important women in my life. Damned right, I'm happy. Life couldn't be much better for me right now, and soon, I'm gonna hit the Ewings where it hurts and take back my company they stole from me. Yep. I have EVERY reason in the world to be happy."
An apartment building in Dallas....
"Tripp, what's going on?" She asks.
"I was so glad you called me last night and asked me to meet you this morning."
"But why here?"
Tripp smiles. "Take a look around. This is gonna be my new apartment."
"What? Really?" Pamela asks.
"Yep. I met with the building manager this morning and signed the papers. I'd looked at this place a couple days ago and fell in love with it. It was the best apartment I looked at."
"Then you've decided to stay in Dallas?" She asks with a smile.
"Yeah, well, I figure, why not?" Tripp says. "I like it here." He takes her by the hand. "And I have a reason to wanna stay around for a while. So, why not get my own place rather than stay in that hotel?"
"You are?" Tripp asks, smiling.
"Of course. I think you can be very useful in helping me wage war on the Ewings."
He moves closer to her. "That the ONLY reason you like having me around?"
"No. You may prove useful in meeting my.....other needs as well."
The smile disappears from Tripp's face. "Gee, thanks," he says.
"Tripp, I told you before. We can hook up sometimes, but it's gonna be whenever I want to. And it's JUST sex. No emotional involvement."
"No," Pamela replies. "When you open your heart, you become vulnerable. When you make yourself vulnerable, you invite someone to hurt you. To break that heart you opened to them. I loved John Ross and I trusted him, even though my instincts and everyone else said not to. Well, I won't let that happen again."
"Not everyone is out to hurt you, Pamela," Tripp says.
"Oh? Like you? Like you went straight from my bed to Jillian Cryder's bed?"
"I did that to get close to her and get information about John Ross's relationship with her, which I did."
"Oh yeah, it was just business. That's EXACTLY the same argument John Ross used to justify sleeping with Emma. I promised myself when that happened that I would never let myself become that vulnerable again."
"Okay, fine then," Tripp says. "Why did you wanna meet me this morning?"
"I have some good news," replies Pamela. "John Ross has agreed to give me a divorce."
"Oh. Great," Tripp says unenthusiastically.
"Well you don't sound very happy about it."
"Why should I be? You just made it clear that you don't give a damn about me and that you and I will never be anything more than business partners and bed buddies. So why should I give a damn whether you're still married to that jerk or not?"
Pamela hesitates a moment. "Tripp, I'm sorry if I ever gave you the impression that we could ever be anything more than that. You're a nice guy, but you've already proven to me that I can't trust opening my heart to you. I'll be in touch. Hope you enjoy your new apartment." Without another word, Pamela turns and leaves.
"Yeah, sure," Tripp says sadly after she's gone. "My new apartment.....alone," he says, standing in the middle of the completely empty living room.
Ewing Global....
"No. Come in," she says. "I could actually use a break."
"Anything wrong?"
Sue Ellen smiles, then stands from her seat. "No. Not exactly."
"Thinkin' about Elena and the baby?" Bobby asks.
"I know," Bobby says. "Elena has done some pretty rotten things against the family. But she's tried to make up for that."
Sue Ellen looks at him. "Can you honestly say that you've forgiven her for bringing Nicolas Trevino into our lives and conspiring with Cliff Barnes against us?"
Bobby sighs. "I dunno, Sue Ellen. I had mixed feelings when Christopher brought her home with him from Mexico. But I think she really regrets everything she did."
"I hope you're right," Sue Ellen says. "And I hope John Ross can find her soon."
"Me too. Hey, did you get your invitation to the Oil Baron's Ball yet?"
"Yes, I did."
"Good," Bobby says with a smile. "I think it's high time the Ewings made a reappearance at the ball. I'll talk to ya later."
Sue Ellen nods at him with a smile as Bobby walks out.
A moment later, Bobby walks into the break room, where Lucas is pouring himself a cup of coffee. "You've been awful quiet this mornin'," he says.
"Sorry," Lucas says. "Just preoccupied I guess."
"Everything okay between you and Emma?"
"Yeah, everything is great with Emma. I had lunch with Mom and Dad yesterday, and they sprung a surprise on me. They told me that they're planning to move back to Dallas."
"I'm not sure. But I think it's more Mom than him. I think she wants to be close so she can keep an eye on me."
"Why?"
"Yeah," says Bobby. "I got the impression that Jenna isn't too crazy about Emma myself."
"I don't understand it. Emma is a wonderful person and she makes me really happy."
"Anyone can see that, son."
"I just wish Mom could," says Lucas.
"Jenna is just being the typical mother. No woman is ever gonna be good enough for her only son. But don't worry. I'm sure that once she gets to know Emma, she'll like her."
"I hope you're right."
Westar Oil.....later
"You want a drink?" John Ross asks.
"I'd love one," Bum replies.
John Ross walks to his bar. "So, any news on Elena yet?" He asks, pouring two glass of bourbon.
"Afraid not. She's not in Mexico City with her family, that's for sure."
"Then where the hell is she?" John Ross asks, handing Bum his drink.
"Don't worry, I'm still workin' on. I have an associate of mine checking in and areas around the little town in Mexico where the Ramoses lived before they moved to Texas."
John Ross sighs. "Damn. I was sure thinkin' she would've gone back to her mama."
"Obviously she needs some time away from everyone," says Bum.
"Keep workin' on this, Bum, and keep me posted every day, even if you don't have any news. I want that girl found. She's carryin' my child and I want it born here in Dallas, not in Mexico or God knows where else Elena might think of hidin' out."
"I'll do my best, John Ross."
"I want you to do better than your best, Bum," John Ross says. "This is real important to me."
"I know, and I understand. Just trust me. Unless Elena has fallen off the face of the earth, I'll find her."
"Good. Thank ya, Bum."
Bum finishes off his bourbon, then puts the glass down on a table. He nods to John Ross, then turns and leaves the office.
After Bum is gone, John Ross sighs deeply. Then he walks to his window and looks out over the city of Dallas. "Where the hell are you, Elena?" He asks aloud.
Southfork....late evening
Bobby's car turns into the gate at Southfork and proceeds down the long driveway leading to the house. Coming to a stop in the parking area in the rear of the house, he gets out of his car and carries his brief case onto the patio and walks into the sliding glass doors on the patio. As he walks into the house, he is greeted by Ann with a kiss.
"How was your day?" She asks.
"Just fine."
"Good. Ray's here. He's in the living room with Christopher."
Bobby smiles. "Oh, good," he says. He turns left and walks down the short hallway into the living room.
"You too, Bob."
"Dad, you want a drink?" Christopher asks.
"I'd love one, thank you, son."
"Reflll yours, Uncle Ray?"
"Sure," Ray says, handing Christopher his empty glass. Christopher walks over to the bar while Ray and Bobby sit down, Ray in a chair and Bobby on one of the two sofas.
"Ray, I was talkin' to Lucas today at the office, and he tells me that you and Jenna are plannin' on movin' back here."
Ray smiles. "That, we are. That's why I'm here, I wanted to tell you the news myself. And I was kinda hopin' you'd help me out."
"Sure, Ray, I'd be glad to do whatever I can," Bobby says as Christopher hands him his drink, then hands Ray his. "What do you need help with?"
"Well, I been doin' some checkin', lookin' for a place for me and Jenna. And I heard a rumor that my old ranch is for sale again."
"Yes, that's right. Mrs. Henderson, the lady who owned the ranch for the last fifteen years, passed away a couple months ago, and since her kids don't live here, they're tryin' to sell the place. Interested in buyin' it back?
"Well, when I heard the ranch was for sale, I thought I'd check into it."
Bobby smiles. "Ray, that would be great, havin' you back here and livin' so close. I think it'd be good for Lucas, too."
"Bob, I've gotta tell ya, I've missed this place. Missed Southfork all these years. If Jenna hadn't wanted to leave here, I prob'ly never would've moved away in the first place. For long time I been wantin' to come home."
"Well, I'm sure glad it's finally happenin', Ray," Bobby says. "I've missed you too. It'll be nice to have a brother around that I can talk to."
Ann walks into the room at that moment. "Ray, would you like to stay for supper?"
"Thanks, Ann, I'd like to," Ray says as he stands. "But Jenna's expectin' me back."
"Ray, if you'd like I'll contact the Hendersons for you," Bobby says.
"I'd really appreciate that, Bob. Thanks again. Christopher, was great talkin' to you."
"You too, Uncle Ray," says Christopher.
"I'll see y'all later."
"I'll walk ya out," says Bobby. He and Ray walk out the french doors leading from the living room to the back porch.
Ann smiles after they walk out. "I think it'll do your father a world of good to have Ray back."
"I think so, too," Christopher agrees.
The smile disappears from Ann's face as she looks at her stepson. "Are you alright, Christopher?"
"Just have a lot on my mind," he replies.
"Thinkin' about Elena?" Ann asks.
Christopher sighs. "Yeah. She's all I've been thinking about lately."
"Is there any chance the two of you could work this out?"
"I honestly don't know. She lied to me, Ann. And not only that, she wasn't even gonna tell John Ross that he's the father of her baby. John Ross and I have had our differences and he can be a total jerk sometimes, but not even he deserves to have his child kept away from him."
Before Ann is able to respond, Bobby returns with a smile. "You sure look happy," Ann says.
"I am," Bobby replies. "It'll be great havin' Ray around. In a lot of ways, I've always been closer to him that I was to Gary or J.R."
"Well, supper's just about done, so why don't you guys go get washed up," Ann suggests. She kisses Bobby, then turns and walks out of the room.
Meanwhile, in Dallas....
John Ross sits alone in a bar in downtown Dallas that night drowning his current sorrows in a glass of bourbon. As he finishes off his glass, he motions the bar maid and she walks over to him.
"Another glass of bourbon and branch, please," John Ross says.
"Comin' right up, hun," says the buxom blonde. She smiles at him, then turns and walks away. As John Ross waits for her to return with his drink, Sue Ellen's secretary Amanda is watching him from the bar. In a moment, the bar maid returns with John Ross's drink. "Anything else I can get for ya,hun?" She asks.
"Not right now, thanks," John Ross says. The woman walks away. Amanda continues to stare at John Ross
"Hi, John Ross," she says. "Fancy meetin' you here. Looks like you could use some company."
"Amanda," John Ross says. "Thanks, but not really."
Amanda takes a seat beside him anyway. "I've been watchin' you from the bar. It's obvious you've got somethin' on your mind. Hard day?"
"You might say that."
"You know, I'm a really good listener," says Amanda. "And it might help to get whatever is botherin' you off your chest."
John Ross finishes his drink and sighs as he puts the glass down on the table. "In this case, I don't think it will."
"Never know til you try," Amanda says. "And, I sure could use a little company tonight myself."
John Ross looks at her for a moment. "Sure," he says. "Why the hell not. It's been a while since I've enjoyed the company of a beautiful woman."
Amanda looks at John Ross and smiles. Despite her secretly working for Cliff Barnes to destroy the Ewings, Amanda can't help but admit to herself that she is genuinely fond of and very attracted to her boss's son.
The next morning....
"I kinda figured you'd be awake by now," she says.
"What time is it?"
"Only 7:30."
John Ross takes a sip of his coffee. "Damn."
Amanda takes a seat on the bed beside him. "How do you feel?"
"Like my head's been run over by an oil tanker."
Amanda laughs slightly. "Yeah, you had a couple too many last night. But, that still didn't stop you from bein' able to........ummm.....deliver the performance of a lifetime."
"If you're worried, don't be. I'm perfectly legal."
"Come on, I'm serious. How old are you?"
"I was twenty-one in August," she replies.
John Ross looks at the young woman and sighs deeply. "Twenty-one," he says with a tone of sadness. "I'd give any damned thing to be twenty-one again."
"You make it sound like you're an old man or something."
"You're so young," he says. "I'm thirty-five. But sometimes, after everything I've been through in my life, it feels like I'm a lot older than that."
"John Ross, you're still young. Besides, I like older guys. I think guys your age are the sexiest."
He looks at her, then stands to his feet and pulls his boxers on. "Now I think you're just tryin' to make me feel better," he says, looking down at her. "And you damn sure did that last night."
Amanda stands and faces him. "I needed someone just as much as you did last night."
"Maybe we'd better not tell my mama what happened," John Ross says.
Amanda smiles. "Agreed."
"Mind if I take a shower?" John Ross asks.
"Not at all. Towels are in the linen closet in the bathroom, on the third shelf."
"Thanks."
"I'll make us some breakfast," says Amanda. "Unless of course, you wouldn't mind me joining you in the shower? I have to get ready for work, too, and we could not only save save time, but we could both go to work with smiles on our faces this mornin'." John Ross pauses as he looks at her. He smiles and nods. As he heads into the bathroom, Amanda's cell phone rings. She picks it up from the table beside the bed and sees that the number calling is Cliff. "You go on, get the water hot and I'll be right in." John Ross turns and goes into the bathroom and closes the door. When Amanda hears the shower start, she answers the call. "I can't talk right now," she says.
"Why, what's going on?" Cliff asks on the other and of the line.
"I have someone in the next room, and he might hear," Amanda says,
"John Ross?" Cliff asks happily. "Well, I must say I'm impressed, but not surprised. After all, that boy inherited his daddy's insatiable appetite from what I hear."
"I have to go," Amanda says. "I'll call you back tonight." Amanda quickly hangs up and heads into the bathroom to join John Ross.
Meanwhile, Cliff also hangs up his phone and smiles, happy that his plan is moving forward, and confident that John Ross could be the key to hurting the Ewings.
Southfork.....
"Yeah, I wasn't hungry," says Christopher. "So I went out running."
"Christopher, are you alright?"
"Dad, I've been doing a lot of thinking. And, I think maybe it's time I start comin' into the office some."
Christopher's news brings a smile to his father's face. "Well, I'm glad to hear it, son. Sure you're ready?"
"Yes, he sure has."
"If it's okay, I think I might come in later today."
"That'll be fine," Bobby says. "I look forward to seein' ya later."
"Bye, Dad," Christopher says as his father leaves. After Bobby walks out of the house, Christopher takes his cell phone from his pocket and opens up his photo gallery. Scrolling through, he finds a photo of Elena he took right after they came back from Mexico. He lets out a deep breath as he looks at the photo with sadness in his eyes. As angry and hurt as he's been, he wonders if he made a mistake in letting her get away again. But he also wonders if he would ever be able to live with the fact that she is pregnant with John Ross's child.
Westar....
"Good mornin', Melissa."
"Here's your morning mail," Melissa says, handing him a stack of mail.
"Oh, thank ya," John Ross says.
"And you're attorney, Todd Baxter, is waiting in your office."
John Ross smiles. Then walks into his office, where he finds his attorney, a young man of around 30, waiting. "Mornin', Todd," he says.
"John Ross, how are you?" Todd Baxter says, greeting his client with a handshake.
"Couldn't be much better. Have you filed for my divorce yet?"
"Good," says John Ross. "Reason I wanted to meet with you this mornin' is to discuss the terms of my divorce. Needless to say, I want my soon-to-be ex wife to walk away from this marriage with nothin'."
"John Ross, that's highly unlikely. Especially given the circumstances."
"Circumstances?" John Ross asks.
"Yes. Your affair with Emma Ryland, who, as it turns out, is your wife's own sister."
"HALF-sister," John Ross corrects.
"That little indiscretion is what destroyed your marriage, and that isn't gonna look good in the eyes of a judge, and it's certainly not gonna make any judge want to leave Pamela with nothing."
"Well, now, that's what I'm payin' you that big retainer for. To make ME look like the victim here in this whole mess. Make it look like Pamela was so emotionally unstable that she drove me into the arms of another woman."
Todd sighs. "John Ross, we've known each other a long time, and I have to say, I don't exactly feel right about this. After all, there is a conflict of interest here."
"What sort of conflict?" John Ross asks, taking a seat at his desk.
"My firm, Smithfield. Bennett, & Baxter, is on retainer for your mother and your Uncle Bobby over at Ewing Global. I'm not sure if I can represent you since your are no longer a part of Ewing Global, but rather, a competing oil company."
"Whether it's personal or not, John Ross, if I represent you, then by extension my firm is representing you as well."
"Todd, don't gimme that ethics BS," John Ross says, standing from his seat. "You're soundin' just like your granddaddy now."
"Well, thank you, I consider that a huge compliment," Todd says.
John Ross walks over to his bar and pours himself a drink. "Care for one?"
"No, thank you, it's a little early in the day for me."
"Lemme tell you somethin' about your granddaddy, Todd," says John Ross. "Ol' Harve Smithfield was a good man. He was my granddaddy's attorney for more'n forty years, and Ewing Oil's attorney for a lot longer'n that. But his one fault was his morals. You're a young lawyer, just startin' out in the fam'ly business. If your granddaddy was startin' out as a lawyer today instead of back in the thirties, he wouldn't have made it too far. Because now days, morality and ethics in business aint nothin' but a millstone around your neck ready to drag you down."
"You said I sounded like my grandfather," Todd says. "And right now you're sounding exacting like your daddy, John Ross. Can't tell you how many stories I heard from my father about yours. Why do you want me to represent you anyway? Why not hire yourself a more experience attorney?"
"Because if I do that, it looks like I got somethin' to hide, or that the law firm my own fam'ly's done business with for generations thinks I can't win, or doesn't wanna take my case because they don't believe in me enough to wanna handle my divorce."
Todd looks at him for a moment. "Okay, okay. I'll handle your divorce, John Ross, but just remember, I'm your attorney, and we're gonna handle this MY way, and we're gonna fight fairly."
John Ross smiles. "Fine by me. Just as long as Pamela comes out with nothin' and I come out smellin' like a rose."
Todd shakes his head in bewilderment. "I'll be in touch as soon as Pamela's attorney contacts me."
"Good," says John Ross, shaking the young lawyer's hand. Then Todd turns and walks out of the office. John Ross finishes his glass of bourbon and smiles.
Ewing Global....
"Christopher," he says.
"Hi, Lucas."
"What brings you here?"
"Figured it was time I came back to the office and got back into the swing of things," Christopher replies.
"I see. So, you're coming back full time?"
"Not right now. Just two, maybe three days a week at first. That'll give me time to also work at the ranch."
Bobby comes out of his office at that moment. He smiles when he sees his two sons talking. "Well, Christopher, glad to see you made it in."
"If you'll excuse me, I have some work to do," Lucas says. He walks away from them and back into his office.
"Don't worry, he'll get use to it," says Bobby. "Christopher, would you do me a favor?"
"Sure, Dad, what is it?"
"I'd like for you to reach out to your brother. Maybe invite him out to lunch, or invite him to work out with you or somethin'."
Christopher sighs. "Dad, I've tried. But it's like he has some sort of grudge against me for some reason."
"It's been hard on him, son. Lucas grew up believin' that Ray was his father. When he found out that I was, he felt betrayed. He's also had a hard time understandin' why I gave him up and let Ray raise him, while I raised you."
"The adopted son," Christopher says.
"Listen to me, Christopher," Bobby says, putting his hand on Christopher's shoulder. "I don't wanna hear that word again. Because as far as I'm concerned, you're NOT my adopted son. You're my SON in every way that counts. It makes me happier than I've been in a long time to have both my boys here in Dallas for the first time, ever. And to have you both workin' with me here at Ewing Global. I'd just like for you two to get along better. So will ya try?"
Christopher hesitates for a moment, then looks at his father. "Sure, Dad. I'll do what I can."
Bobby smiles. "Thanks, son. Now, your old office is still there and waitin'."
"Okay, Dad. I'll see you." Bobby pats his son on the back, then Christopher walks away and goes into his office. After he closes the door, Bobby turns and walks over to Lucas's office and knocks on the door.
"Come in," Lucas says.
Bobby walks into the office. "How's it goin'?"
"Good. I was kinda surprised to see Christopher back."
"It's gonna do him good. Lucas, I'd like to talk to you about that...."
"That's okay," Lucas says. "You don't have to say anymore. I'll pack up my stuff."
"Lucas, you're not goin' anywhere. Not unless it's your decision to. Do you have dinner plans tonight?"
"Nope, why?" Lucas asks.
"I'd like for you and Emma to come to dinner at Southfork," says Bobby.
"Okay, sure."
"Good. Around 7?"
"We'll be there," Lucas says.
Bobby nods and then walks out. After he's gone, Lucas sighs deeply, with a look of anger on his face at the thought of his big brother returning to work.
Pamela's apartment....
Southfork.....that night
"Thanks, Bob," Ray says, smiling.
John Ross looks across the table at the older couple. "What's this?" He asks. "Y'all really movin' back?"
"That's right, we are," Ray says sternly.
"Oh, great," John Ross says sarcastically. "Just the kinda news I needed to make my day perfect."
"John Ross, enough of that," Bobby says.
"Back to what I was saying," Bobby continues again. "What just happened is the third thing I wanted to address here tonight. The tension in this family, at this table, is ridiculous. I know the Ewings have never been the most....functional....
family in the world. But despite all our differences, we still ARE a family. And damn it, it's time we started acting like a family instead of a bunch of enemies ready to go to war against each other. Because in the end, family is all we have. Now, with that said, how about we all adjourn for cocktails?"
"That sounds good to me," says Ann. Everyone noisily gets up from the table and leaves the dining room to head into the living room for drinks.
Bobby approaches Lucas and Christopher before they leave. "Can I have a private word with you two?" He asks.
"Of course," Christopher answers as Lucas remains silent. Bobby motions for everyone else to go on ahead. "Is anything wrong, Dad?" Christopher asks.
"No, not exactly."
"Then what is it?" Asks Lucas.
"I'd like to talk to you boys about the tension between you. I realize it's not easy for either of you right now. You're brothers, but you hardly know one another. Now Lucas, you were deeply hurt recently when you found out I was your real father. I know, son, and for that, I'm very, very sorry. And when Christopher came home, I saw the resentment you harbored toward him because he was the son I chose to raise. And Christopher, ever since you were a little boy, you resented Lucas because he's my biological son."
Christopher looks at his father in shock.
"It's okay, son, I know," says Bobby. "I've always known. But let me tell you both somethin' right here and now. Christopher, you ARE my son. Maybe not by blood, but in every other way that counts. I have NEVER looked on you as bein' adopted. And Lucas, I have loved you since the day you were born, and many times I regretted the decision to give you up. You're both my sons, and I'd like for you to start actin' like brothers."
Christopher looks at his younger brother for a moment. "I'm willin' to try, if you are," he says, extending his hand.
Lucas looks at his brother's hand, then looks Christopher in the eye. He nods. "Yeah. Me too, then," he says, shaking hands with Christopher.
Bobby stands before his two sons, smiling with pride. "Come on. Let's go have a drink," he says.
Amanda's apartment....later
"Hey. Mind if I come in? I could kinda use some comp'ny again tonight."
She smiles, then nods. John Ross walks into the apartment and the two kiss passionately, then Amanda closes the door....
The Omni Hotel.....the next morning
"Mornin'," he says.
"I woke up and you were gone. What time is it?"
"Almost nine."
"Why'd you let me sleep so late?" Jenna asks.
"Didn't wanna disturb ya," says Ray. "I've got a surprise for you, Jenna."
"Oh?"
"Yeah. Hurry up and get dressed. I wanna go for a drive."
"A drive?" Jenna asks. "A drive where?"
"Now no questions. Just get dressed."
Jenna smiles. "Alright. I'll just be a few minutes." Jenna walks into the bedroom and closes the door behind her.
Meanwhile....Amanda's apartment
"Hmmm.....mornin'," John Ross says. "Time is it?"
"Almost nine."
"Damn. Good thing today is Saturday and neither of us has to be at work."
"That's why I let you sleep," says Amanda. "I've just been layin' here, listenin' to your heartbeat." John Ross strokes her hair. "You never told me what had you so down last night. You seemed even more depressed than you were the night I met you in the bar."
"Well, I was summoned to Southfork last night by our self-proclaimed patriarch, my Uncle Bobby, and had to sit through the fam'ly dinner from hell. My cousin Lucas and his new girlfriend who use to be my girlfriend, were there, along with my Uncle Ray, who recently threatened me with bodily harm, and my cousin Christopher, who can't stand the sight of me because we were once in love with the same woman."
"Wow. Your family sounds very.......interesting......to say the least."
"Interestin' aint the word," says John Ross.
Amanda lays her head on his chest. "Just be thankful you have a family at all. Not everyone is that lucky."
"What do you mean? Amanda, you don't have a family?"
Amanda sits up in bed, her back to him. "No," she says, then gets out of bed.
John Ross sees that the young woman is near tears. He gets out of bed, puts his boxers on, then walks over to her. "Wanna tell me about it?" He asks.
"Not really anything to tell. I was an only child, my father left us when I was two so I never knew him. And my mother died when I sixteen."
"You...you had no one else?" John Ross asks. "No grandparents?"
"No."
"So what'd you do after your mama died?"
"I lived with a friend of hers until I was seventeen. Been on my own ever since."
"I'm sorry," John Ross says.
"Why are you sorry?" Amanda asks, wiping her tears. "It's not like you really care about me."
"Hey, where's that comin' from?" John Ross asks, taking her by the shoulders and turning her around to face him.
"John Ross, who are we kidding here? We hardly know each other. I met you at your mother's office, and then again in a bar and we end up back here in my bed. Next mornin' we got up and went our separate ways. And last night you needed some.....companionship.....so you show up at my door again."
John Ross gently touches her face. "Amanda, I do care. Not sure why, especially considerin' it's been a long while since I cared about anybody but me. But you was there for me when I needed a friend. I'd like to return the favor."
Amanda looks up at him and smiles. "Thank you."
"I can't imagine what it must be like to not have anybody in the world. Just want you to know, you'll always have a friend in me, Amanda."
"It's weird," she says.
"What is?"
"I had you pegged as a real scoundrel. Only out for sex or whatever else you can get out of someone. But you really do have a heart."
John Ross is silent for a moment as he looks into the young woman's eyes. "Yeah, I guess maybe I do. Just don't let word get out. I have a reputation as a scoundrel to maintain."
Amanda puts her arms around John Ross and he embraces her.
Later......a country road near Southfork
"Ray, would you PLEASE tell me where it is we're going?" Jenna asks.
"Nope, that'd spoil the surprise. We're almost there."
A couple of minutes later, Ray drives the truck into a driveway and up a road to a house. He brings the truck
"Okay, take my hand, and come on out, slowly," Ray says.
Jenna, still blindfolded, does as she's told. Ray helps her out of the truck. "Ray, what's this all about?" Jenna asks with a smile.
"Close your eyes," Ray tells her.
"What?"
"Close your eyes. I'm gonna take off the blind fold."
"Alright. But hurry. I'm dying of suspense."
"Okay, got 'em closed?" Ray asks.
"Yes, now would you hurry?" Jenna asks, playfully impatient.
Ray reaches behind her head and unties the blindfold, and pulls it off. "Okay, you can open your eyes now," he says.
Jenna slowly opens her eyes and looks at the house in front of her. A look of shock comes over her face. "Ray, is this.....are we where I think we are?"
"Yes. Our old house."
"Well, why are we here?" Jenna asks.
"You.....you bought your old ranch back?" Jenna asks.
"Well, the papers haven't been signed yet, we'll do that next week. But I wanted to bring ya out here and surprise ya."
"Place looks a lot different than it did twenty-five years ago," Ray says as a man walks out of the front door of the house and onto the porch.
"Well, Mr. Krebbs," he says. "Good morning."
"Mornin', Mr. Henderson," says Ray. "This is my wife, Jenna. Honey, this is Seth Henderson."
"Very pleased to meet you, Mrs. Krebbs," Henderson says, shaking Jenna's hand.
"Thank you, it's nice to meet you, too."
"I was just tellin' Jenna how different the old place looks now," says Ray. "If anything it's even more beautiful now."
"Come on, honey," Ray tells Jenna as he follows Seth into the house.
After a moment's pause, Jenna, not looking any happier than she sounded, follows.
Tripp McKay's new apartment....
"Hi, Tripp," she says, brushing past him and walking into the apartment.
Tripp closes the door and turns to her. "What are you doing here?"
"Well, for one, I dropped by to see your new apartment now that you've moved in." Pamela looks around the still nearly bare living room, furnished only with a sofa and one chair and an end table. "Still has a lot of work that needs to be done, huh?"
"Yeah. A sofa, chair, and table are the only things I could get delivered yesterday, so I had to sleep on the sofa last night. My bed is supposed to get here by tomorrow."
"Good," Pamela says with a smile. "Maybe we can try it out."
Tripp looks at her. "You know, Pamela," he says, walking into the kitchen area of the apartment. "I'm gettin' a little tired of being your personal boy toy that you just hit up whenever you're feeling a little lonely and needy." He opens a small portable refrigerator and takes out a soda and opens it. "I do have feelings, you know."
"I know. And I'm sorry," Pamela says. "That brings me to the other reason I'm here. The Oil Baron's Ball is in exactly one week, and I'd like for you to be my date."
"That's right."
"Why me? There must be a lot of eligible young guys you can ask."
"But you're the one I wanna go to the ball with. Unless of course you already have other plans for next Saturday night?"
"No. No plans," Tripp says.
"Yeah. I'd love to go," replies Tripp.
"Good. Get your tux a few days before."
"I will. Hey, you wanna grab some lunch with me? I was just about to get ready and head out."
"I'd love to, but, some other time. I'm having lunch with my mom today. But, how about dinner?"
Tripp smiles. "Dinner sounds good."
"I'll see you later, then," Pamela says. "Around six?"
"Okay."
"Bye," Pamela says. She smiles at Tripp again, then leaves.
Lonesome Dove Western Bistro, Fort Worth....
"Hello, Cliff," the man says as he sits down.
"Hello, old friend," Cliff greets the man with a handshake. "I must say you're looking well after all these years."
"So are you, considering you just got out of prison not too long ago."
Cliff laughs. "What can I say? I'm a survivor. I've had to be after everything the Ewings have thrown at me over the years. Which is why I asked you to come all the way to Fort Worth to meet me. I wanna talk about how we can take the Ewings down."
"Cliff, why should I help you?" The old man asks.
"Because you have a reason to hate the Ewings and wanna see them destroyed, just like I do," Cliff says. "I want revenge for what they took from me, AND for framing me for J.R,'s murder. You, my friend, want revenge for your grandson's death."
Southfork....one week later
"Evenin', son," Bobby says. "You look great in a tux."
"Yeah, well, I feel like an idiot," says Lucas, pulling at his bow tie and shirt collar.
"Don't worry, you'll get use to it after you attend enough of these events," Christopher says.
"Where's Emma?" Bobby asks.
Bobby looks at his watch. "I wish they'd get a move on, or we're gonna be late."
"No, we won't," Ann says as she and Emma walk into the room, both dressed in gorgeous evening gowns.
"Wow, you two look absolutely gorgeous," Christopher says.
"I second that," says Lucas,
"And I THIRD that," Bobby says.
"Shall we go?" Asks Bobby.
"All set," Ann says.
"Where's John Ross?" Lucas asks.
"He went to pick up his date," replies Bobby. "And Christopher, you're gonna stop by and pick up Sue Ellen?"
"Yep. I talked to her a few minutes ago. She said she'd be ready."
"Good," says Bobby. "Let's head out then."
"Umm, you all go on out," Ann says. "We'll be there in a second."
Christopher nods, and he, Lucas, and Emma leave. Bobby turns to Ann. You alright, honey?" He asks.
"I'm just a little nervous. My very first Oil Baron's Ball as Mrs. Bobby Ewing. Just hope I don't disappoint."
"There is no way you could," Bobby says, taking his wife by the hand. "You are more beautiful tonight than at any time since the day of our wedding."
Ann smiles. "And you never looked more handsome."
"Come on, then, Mrs. Ewing. Let's go WOW Dallas society." Ann takes her husband's arm and they leave.
Meanwhile....
Amanda answers her door and finds John Ross standing there.
"Well, well. Good evenin'," says John Ross, dressed in a tuxedo. He walks into the apartment and looks his date over. "I just don't believe it."
"Don't believe what?" Amanda asks with a smile.
"That you could possibly have gotten more beautiful than you already were. I'll be the envy of every man there."
"John Ross, you're crazy," Amanda laughs.
"Course I am," he says. "It's part of my charm. Now, are you ready to go so I can show you off?"
Amanda sighs. "I'm really nervous about this."
"Nervous? How come?"
"I've never been to anything like this before. And what about your mother? Did you tell her you were taking me?"
"No, I didn't. Why does that bother you?" John Ross asks.
"It might bother her. Her son taking her secretary to the Oil Baron's Ball."
"My mama is not gonna be bothered by that. Now come on," John Ross says. Amanda grabs her coat, and the two leave.
A short time later....
"Hello, Ray, Jenna," he says, shaking hands with Ray.
"Hey, Bob," says Ray.
"Glad you could make it."
"For me too, Ray," Bobby says.
Across the room, Sue Ellen spots John Ross and makes her way through the crowd to him. John Ross greets his mother with a kiss on the cheek. "Hey, Mama, you look beautiful," he says.
"Thank you, John Ross. Where's your date?"
"Right behind you," John Ross replies.
Sue Ellen turns around and is shocked to see her secretary. "Amanda," she says.
"Good evening, Mrs. Ewing," Amanda says.
"Wanted it to be a surprise," John Ross says.
Meanwhile, Cliff arrives at the ball with Afton on his arm. not looking happy about being there.
"Because I really don't wanna be here, Cliff. Especially not with you."
"Well you didn't have to come now, did you?"
Afton sighs. "Just shut up and let's try to get through this night."
At that moment, an old friend spots Cliff and walks over to him. "Good Lord, I don't believe it," the man says. "Cliff Barnes?"
"Roger? Hey, Roger Patterson," Cliff says, shaking the man's hand.
"How long has it been?" Roger asks.
"At least twenty years," Cliff replies.
"Never thought I'd see you again, Cliff."
"Yeah I know, neither did I. Hey, Roger, you remember Afton?"
Roger looks at her and smiles. "Oh my," he says. "Afton, it's been a very long time. Are you with this ugly guy again?"
"Not hardly," Afton says.
"She's just here as my escort tonight," Cliff says.
While her parents are talking to Roger, Pamela arrives on Tripp's arm. "Wow," Tripp says. "Can't believe I'm really here. All the stories I've heard about the Oil Baron's Ball."
"This is my first one, too," Pamela says.
"Lots of people here."
"Yeah."
Excusing themselves from Roger, Cliff and Afton spot Pamela and Tripp and walk over to them. "Hey, sweetheart," Cliff says, kissing his daughter on the cheek.
"Hi, Daddy, Mom."
"Pamela, we were starting to get worried," says Afton.
"I'm sorry. It was my fault we were late," Tripp says. As he finishes speaking, he looks over Cliff's shoulder and sees his grandfather walk into the room. "I don't believe it," he says.
"What's the matter?" Pamela asks.
"My grandfather's here. Come on. Let's go say hi." Tripp and Pamela leave Cliff and Afton, and make their way through the crowd to where Carter McKay sits at a table with his daughter Tracey. "Grandfather, Aunt Tracey," says Tripp.
The elder McKay smiles at the sight of his surviving grandson. "Hello, Tripp. It's good to see you."
"It's great to see both of you here," Tripp says. "But I'm a little surprised."
"Tripp, you know your grandfather can be very persuasive when he wants to be," Tracey says.
"Granddad, this is Pamela Ewing."
"Pamela BARNES," she corrects. "It's a pleasure to meet you, Mr. McKay. I've heard so much about you."
"Pamela.....Barnes? You're Cliff's daughter, am I right?"
"You sure are," says Cliff as he and Afton walk up to the McKay table. "Mckay."
"Hello, Cliff."
"And Tracey?" Cliff says.
"It's been a very long time, Cliff," says Tracey.
"Yes it has. Too long. You're still as beautiful as ever."
"Thank you," Tracey says as she spots Bobby across the room chatting with someone. "Would you all excuse me? I'd like to go say hi to a friend." Tracey gets up from her seat and walks across the crowded ballroom dance floor until she reaches Bobby, who's standing at the bar with his back to her. "Bobby," she says.
Bobby turns around and is surprised to see her. "Tracey, hello. Tom, would you excuse me, please?" Bobby asks the gentleman he's been chatting with. Tom quietly turns and walks away. "Tracey, what on earth are you doin' here?"
"I came with my father."
"Your father's here?" Bobby asks, a concerned look on his face.
"Ann, my WIFE, is dancing with my son. Christopher recently had a heartbreak, so he didn't ask a date to the ball tonight."
Tracey smiles. "Bobby, I'm so happy so have heard that Christopher is alive. I can't imagine how thrilled you must be."
"I've been on cloud nine ever since he came home."
"I'm glad. You deserve some happiness for a change. Bobby, ummm, are you aware that Cliff Barnes is here, too?"
The smile quickly disappears off Bobby's face. "Cliff? No, I had no idea."
"He's over talking to my father. I just wanted to give you a heads up."
"Thank you, Tracey, I appreciate that," Bobby says.
"I'm fine," she replies, rather short.
"I get the feelin' you're not fine. Hardly said three words all evenin'. Is it bein' here at the ball again after all these years?"
"That's part of it, I suppose."
"And....what's the other part? It have somethin' to do with me buyin' our old ranch back?" Ray asks.
"Ray, you bought that ranch without even consulting me first."
"Well, honey, you're the one that wanted to move back here."
"Yes, I wanted to move back to be near Lucas, but I didn't wanna move that close to Southfork," Jenna says.
Ray remains quiet.
"Ray, do you remember when we left here to move to Europe years ago?" She asks.
"Of course I remember."
"We left to get away from the Ewings and all the problems that come with being so close to them."
"Come on, Jenna. That was twenty-six years ago. Things have changed since then," Ray says.
"No, they haven't. That dinner at Southfork last week proved it. J.R. may be gone, but now you have his son and carbon copy sitting across the dinner table hurling subtle insults. Pam is long gone, but she's been replaced by Ann giving me dirty looks."
"Like Bobby. Jenna, ever since we came back here when we thought Christopher was dead, things haven't been the same between us. I know that Bobby was your first love. But are you still in love with him, even now?"
"Ray, don't be ridiculous. What Bobby and I had ended years ago, the day he left me to marry Pam again."
"You didn't answer my question, Jenna," Ray says. "You danced around it. Are you still in love with Bobby after all these years?"
Jenna looks at her husband. "I could ask you the same about Donna," she says, then walks away. Jenna's question throws Ray for a loop, as he isn't quite sure of the answer himself.
"Club soda, please," she says.
"Emma," says John Ross.
"Hi."
"Club soda, eh?"
"The ladies room," John Ross replies as Lucas walks over to them.
"There you are," he says to Emma. "Wondered where you got off to."
"Just came for another club soda."
"Evening, John Ross," Lucas says.
"What's up, cousin? Enjoyin' yourself?"
"Very much," Lucas says with a sly smile. He puts his arm around Emma's waist and quickly ushers her away from John Ross.
"What was that all about?" Emma asks Lucas once they are away from his cousin.
"Nothing. Just wanna dance with my girl again."
"Later," Emma says, looking across the room at Cliff. "I wanna go talk to someone." Emma walks away from Lucas, leaving him a little frustrated.
Across the room, Cliff catches up to Carter McKay, who is just coming back into the ballroom walking with his cane after visiting the men's room. "What the hell are you doing here?" Cliff asks. "This could jeopardize everything, you showin' up here like this."
McKay smiles. "Don't worry, Cliff. Everyone will think you and I are just saying hi to one another for the first time in over fifteen years. Besides, I'm sure that by now Tracey has already informed Bobby Ewing of my presence here. But not to worry."
"I just don't want anything to endanger my plans, that's all," Cliff says.
Before either of the men can say any more, Emma walks up behind Cliff. "Excuse me, Mr. Barnes," she says.
Hearing Emma's sweet voice melts Cliff's heart. After a brief pause, he turns around to face her. "Emma, hello," he says with a smile. "How are you?"
"I'm fine. I never got a chance to thank you for what you did for me. If it wasn't for you, I'd probably be dead right now."
"I just wanted to thank you."
"Emma, listen," Cliff says. "I would really like the chance to get to know you better."
"I really don't know about that," says Emma.
"It would mean a lot to me. Just have lunch with me one day. Please."
Emma looks at him for a moment, then nods. "Okay, sure," she says.
"Good." Cliff reaches into his pocket and takes out a business card and gives it to her. "My number's on there. Just give me a call one day next week."
"Alright. Bye." Emma smiles slightly, then walks away.
"What was that all about?" Carter asks. "She's kinda young for you, isn't she?"
Cliff laughs. "No, it's nothing like that, believe me. That girl just HAPPENS to be my daughter."
"Oh, really? I wasn't aware you had any children besides Pamela."
"Neither was I until very recently," Cliff says. "And here's the kicker.......that girl's mother is Ann Ewing, Bobby's current wife."
Carter's mouth drops open in shock.
Elsewhere at the ball, Lucas happens to spot Jillian Cryder at the bar. He smiles, then decides to walk over and meet his newfound cousin. "Excuse me," he says.
Jillian turns to him. "Yes?"
"You're Jillian Cryder, aren't you?" Lucas asks.
"I'm Lucas Krebbs. Bobby Ewing is my.....well, he's my father."
"Really?" Jillian says with a smile.
"Yeah. So I guess......you'd be my cousin."
Jillian smiles. "Well, it's very nice to meet you, Lucas."
"Nice to meet you, too," Lucas says. "Listen, I understand what a shock it must have been, finding out J.R. Ewing was your father. I know exactly what it's like. I just recently found out Bobby's my father."
"Oh, I see. So, I guess we're kind of in the same boat."
"Yeah," Lucas says with a smile. "So if you ever need a friend, or someone to talk to, I'm always available."
"Thank you, Lucas, I really appreciate that," Jillian says.
At that moment, the master of ceremonies, a man of about 60 with a medium build, takes the stage and steps to the podium as the music stops.
"Everyone, please begin to find your seats," the man says. "Please everyon, make your way to your seats."
"Well, I guess I'll see you later," Lucas says to Jillian. "If you ever wanna talk, you can get in touch with me at Ewing Global."
"Thank you, Lucas," Jillian says, and they both go their separate ways.
Lucas makes his way across the ballroom to the Ewing family's reserved table, where he takes a seat along with Bobby, Ann, Christopher, Sue Ellen, and Emma. John Ross and Amanda take their seats at the table reserved for Westar.
After everyone is seated and the room begins to grow quiet, the master of ceremonies again speaks: "Ladies and gentlemen, welcome to the 40th annual Oil Baron's Ball. Thank you all for coming out tonight to celebrate the accomplishments made to the oil and gas industry here in Dallas and across the state of Texas. Tonight, as we celebrate the 40th anniversary of the Oil Baron's Ball, it is my great privilege to introduce to you a woman whose husband made many lasting contributions to the oil community right here in Dallas and for a number of years served as master of ceremonies at the Oil Baron's Ball. Ladies and gentlemen, here tonight, making a very rare public appearance to present the Oil Baron Of The Year Award, as well as to receive a special lifetime achievement award for her husband's years of service and contributions to us all, is Mrs. Mavis Anderson."
A thunderous applause arose from the audience as the elderly Mavis Anderson, still looking quite well for a woman in her late 80s, is helped onto the stage by a man and a woman. Once she makes it up the four steps onto the stage, she hands the woman her walking cane and is handed the plaque given to her in honor of her late husband, Punk Anderson. She then takes the arm of tonight's master of ceremonies, who leads her to the podium as the audience stands to their feet and continues their applause. Once on the podium, Mavis blows a kiss to the audience. Finally, the applause dies down so the woman can speak: "Thank you. Thank you all so much," Mavis says.
"I can't tell you what an honor it is for me to be here this evening speaking to you. Many of you here, seated around this room, knew my late husband and me very well through the years. And as many of you will remember, today is a very special, and a very sad day for me. On this day, ten years ago in 2004, I lost my beloved Punk. Sometimes it seems like only yesterday. I was Punk Anderson's second's wife, but I was so blessed to have him as my partner for an incredible forty-five years. Thankfully, his contributions to the oil community in Dallas live on. I thank you all for this award, and I know that Punk would be extremely proud of the young oil men and women of today. And now, I will present the name of the new Oil Baron of the year."
A look of stunned surprise crosses the faces of all of John Ross's family members upon hearing his name announced as this year's winner of this coveted award. The audience applauds as John Ross stands and makes his way to the podium. Meanwhile, across the room, Cliff, Afton, Pamela, Tripp, and Carter McKay all sit stoically, looks of anger and disgust on their faces as they watch John Ross take the stage. His walks over and kisses Mavis, then the master of ceremonies takes her by he arm and leads her off the stage.
As John Ross leaves the podium with his award, the audience applauds again, then the music quietly resumes and couples begin dancing again. Amanda meets John Ross as he comes off the stage and gives him a hug and a kiss. Sue Ellen, Bobby, and Ann also approach him.
"John Ross, I'm so proud of you," Sue Ellen says, giving her son a hug. "And your father would be, too."
"Thank ya, Mama."
"John Ross, congratulations," Bobby says, shaking his nephew's hand. "Very well done."
John Ross smiles as he shakes his uncle's hand. "I appreciate that, Uncle Bobby. Means a lot comin' from you."
"Well, well, the gang's all here," says Carter McKay as he approaches the group of Ewings.
"McKay, what in the world brings you here? Come to congratulate me?" John Ross asks.
"McKay, why don't you just go on back to your table?" Bobby asks.
"How typical," Carter says. "Ewings defending Ewings. Bobby do you know how this upstanding nephew of yours managed to take over as CEO of Westar? He got the shares he needed to takeover that company by blackmailing their rightful owners out of those shares."
"Old man, you don't know what the hell you're talkin' about," John Ross says as Tracey, Tripp, and Pamela walk over.
"Daddy, what's going on?" Tracey asks.
"I was just setting the record straight about how this.......
spawn of satan made himself king of Westar."
"Tracey, I think maybe you should take your father back to your table," says Bobby.
"I'm not going anywhere until I've had my say."
"You're just bitter, McKay, because you once lost Westar to my daddy," says John Ross.
"Your daddy was a lying, backstabbing snake in the grass and whoever really killed him should get a medal."
"You shut the hell up, you old bastard!" John Ross angrily yells as people around them start to stare.
"How dare you talk to my father like that," Tracey says.
A short distance away, at their table, Cliff and Afton observe the brewing confrontation. "Hey, this oughta be good," Cliff says with a laugh as he gets up from his seat. He walks over.
"John Ross, calm down," says Sue Ellen, putting her hand on her son's shoulder.
"I'm not gonna calm down. Did you hear what this old man said about my father?"
"Only the truth," Carter says.
Bobby gets between John Ross and Carter, and gets in Carter's face. "McKay, why don't you just go sit down somewhere before this gets outta hand?"
"I don't need you or anyone speakin' up for me, Uncle Bobby," John Ross says. "McKay, if you weren't so old, I'd knock you flat on your ass for what you just said."
"Yeah," Tripp says, stepping up to John Ross. "Well, I'm not an old man, so let's see you try that with me."
"Be glad to, punk!" John Ross says as he takes a swing at Tripp, punching him across the face. Tripp quickly makes a recovery and tackles John Ross, the two young men crashing into a table, falling to the floor among broken glass and spilled food. Bobby grabs Tripp and pulls him off John Ross. Tripp then punches Bobby, knocking him to the floor.
'BOBBY!!!" Ann screams upon seeing her husband punched.
Tracey grabs her father by the arm and pulls him away from the fight.
As Tripp gets up, John Ross punches him again....
"TRIPP!!" Pamela screams, running over to him.
"Tripp, oh dear God," Carter McKay says, seeing his grandson knocked to the floor seemingly unconscious. As the elderly man starts toward his grandson, a sudden, stabbing pain strikes him in the chest, a paralyzing pain. Carter clutches his chest with his right hand and nearly falls, grabbing onto a table with his left hand.
"DADDY!' Tracey yells, grabbing her father. Carter falls to the floor in agonizing pain. "DADDY!!" Tracey again cries, kneeling beside her father. "SOMEONE, HELP ME!!!!"
Tracey's screams and the sight of seeing Carter McKay on the floor stops the fight in its tracks as everyone looks on with worried expressions. Tripp, coming to his senses, gets up, wipes blood from his nose, and sees his grandfather on the floor. "Granddad," he says. Tripp quickly scrambles over to his grandfather and his aunt, Tracey cradling her father's head in her arms as the old man begins to lose consciousness and a bystander calls for an ambulance. A few feet away, Bobby, John Ross, Christopher, Lucas, and Ray stand, looking down at their family's longtime enemy, each of them looking worried.
Still holding her father, who has now passed out, Tracey looks up at Bobby with tears in her eyes. "Are you happy now?" She cries. "You killed him. You killed my FATHER!!!"