Previously on DALLAS:
--------------Alex was angry when he spotted Christopher hugging Charlie.
--------------In court, many ugly truths about J.R.'s life were brought out, including his affair with his former attorney, Anita Smithfield.
--------------Charlie collapses after Alex upsets her.
--------------To everyone's dismay, John Ross wins his court case.
Braddock Medical Center....
"I"m sorry, you're all gonna have to wait out here," a nurse says as Charlie is taken into an examining room.
"Mom, what's wrong with her?" Asks an upset Alex. "I wanna see her!"
"Alex, sweety, just calm down," Jenna says, trying to comfort her grandson.
"They're gonna take good care of your mother, Alex," Christopher says.
"You don't believe that," says Christopher.
"The HELL I don't! My mom is in there because of YOU!"
"Hey, just calm down," Ray says, putting his hand on Alex's shoulder.
Christopher looks at the boy, his heart breaking for the pain Alex feels now, but even more so for how it will be when he learns the truth about his mother's condition.
Southfork....evening
The door opens and Bobby walks in. "You alright, Justin?" He asks.
"I'd like to be alone, please."
"Look, son. I know how upset and angry you are right now. But I really hope you aren't gonna just give up and leave."
"No need to worry about that," Justin says. "Like I told John Ross, I aint goin' anywhere."
"I'm glad to hear that. Justin, you heard some pretty ugly things today about your father. A lot of that stuff that was brought out came as a surprise to me, too."
"I don't know how," Justin says, retaking his seat. "But I'm gonna get back at John Ross. Don't know how yet, but I am."
"And I'll be glad to help you," says Jill, who is standing behind Bobby.
Bobby turns around to see her standing in the open doorway. "Jill," he says.
"I came by to see how my little brother was doing," says Jill, walking into the room.
"He's understandably upset, as we all are," Bobby says.
"Yeah. I sure never expected John Ross to be able to win that," Jill says. "But his lawyer......that guy was pretty ruthless."
"Maybe there's a way to turn this around," Bobby says.
"How?" Justin asks.
"I'm not sure yet. Tomorrow, I'll talk to Jay about appealin' the judge's decision. My brother wanted you to have that stock he left you, and James, too. Somehow, we'll fix this. Or at least try. Look, I'm gonna get outta here and let the two of you talk. Justin, if you need anything, don't hesitate to come up to the house."
"Thanks Uncle Bobby."
Bobby smiles, then walks out, closing the door behind him. After he's gone, Jill walks over and takes a seat beside her brother. "Justin, are you okay?"
"I had plans, Jill. Big plans. All that money I was gonna come into, I wanted to do somethin' important. And John Ross took that away from me. Took away what our daddy wanted me to have."
"I know exactly how you feel," Jill says.
"I hate him, Jill. He may be my brother and we may have the same blood, but God help me, I hate him and if it takes me the rest of my life, I'm gonna get him for this."
"I think I might know how we can."
"How?"
"We're gonna need some help. And I know the one person who can help us take John Ross down. His ex-wife, Pamela."
Braddock Medical Center....a short time later
"Thank your for callin' us, son," Bobby says.
"How is she?" Ann asks.
"No word yet," Christopher replies.
"What exactly happened?" Bobby asks.
"It was your son's fault," Alex replies.
"What?"
"He upset my mom."
"Alex, come on, buddy," Lucas says, standing to his feet. "Why don't we go and get a soda and a couple snacks or somethin'?"
"Sure," the boy replies as he stands. Lucas looks at the others with worry, then he and Alex head down the hall toward the snack machine.
"Christopher, what did Alex mean, you upset Charlie?" Bobby asks.
"That's not what happened at all. A few days ago, he saw me giving Charlie a hug, and he got the wrong idea. When he got home from school and saw me there with Charlie, Alex got really angry and he said some things. Charlie was upset and that's when she collapsed. Maybe it was my fault, if I hadn't been there...."
"Christopher, this wasn't your fault," says Jenna. "Charlie was sick and very weak from her treatment."
At that moment, a doctor comes into the waiting room. "Excuse me," he says. "Charlotte Walton's family?"
"Yes, I'm her mother," Jenna says as everyone gathers around the doctor. "How's my daughter?"
"Doctor, what caused this?" Ray asks.
"Most likely, the chemotherapy. I've been on the phone with Dr. Elizabeth Conrad, Mrs. Walton's oncologist at Baylor in Dallas. We're going to transfer her there first thing in the morning."
"You're making it sound like this is very serious," Jenna says, fighting back tears.
"It could be. We're not a cancer hospital here, and Mrs. Walton will receive better care at Baylor. Dr. Conrad seemed concerned and she's driving here as we speak to examine your daughter. We feel it's best to wait until morning to move her because right now, what she needs most is rest and quiet."
"Will she be alright?" Ray asks.
"In my opinion, yes, for now," replies the doctor. "We have this episode under control, but Mrs. Walton's lungs and the rest of her body have been severely weakened by the cancer and the treatments."
"May we see her?" Jenna asks.
"As soon as Dr. Conrad arrives and gives the okay, and we get her in a room. So it could be a while. For now, I'd suggest you folks go home."
"No, I'm staying," says Jenna.
"Alright. I'll let you know," the doctor says. He turns and walks out of the room.
Ray embraces his wife. "Bob, why don't the rest of y'all go on home? I'll give you a call when we know somethin'."
"Ray, what about Alex?" Bobby asks. "Would you like for us to take him to Southfork with us? He can spend the night there?"
"Thank you," Jenna says.
"If it's all the same to you guys, I'm gonna stay," says Christopher.
"Son, they probably won't let you see Charlie," Bobby tells his son.
"I don't care. I wanna be here and hear for myself what the doctor says."
"That's fine, Christopher," says Ray. "I think there's somethin' else we need to think about here."
"What?" Asks Jenna.
"Alex. It's time the boy knew the truth."
"Maybe not. But looks like fate has taken that decision outta all our hands. It's better he hear it from us than some other way, and with Charlie so sick and in the hospital.....he's gotta be told."
"Has the doctor been out? Is my Mom gonna be alright? What's wrong with her?"
Ray and Jenna exchange worried looks between them, not knowing how they were going to tell Alex the truth.
Southfork....the cottage
"Hey," he says, switching on a light. "Where's Ashley?"
"In the shower," replies Debra Lynn.
"Honey, we've gotta talk about earlier. Debra Lynn....."
"Why didn't you ever tell me, James? All these years, and I'm finding out all these things that you never told me."
"Because it wasn't important," James says.
"Wasn't important? Your father had himself committed to a psychiatric hospital. You stole his release papers by drugging his secretary, then you ripped them up and were gonna leave him there. Oh, no, that wasn't important at all."
"Debra Lynn why are you making such a big deal out of something that happened months before you came back into my life?" James asks. "Look, I'm sorry that I didn't tell you every little detail of my life, but I'm sure there're things you've never told me, either."
"What the hell is that supposed to mean?" Debra Lynn asks angrily. "I have NEVER kept anything major from you, James."
"Honey, it's nothin'," James tells his daughter.
"Your father and I were just having a slight disagreement," Debra Lynn says. "Nothing for you to worry about."
"Same thing you told me last time I walked in on you fighting," the girl says. "Just....great." Ashley sighs, then turns and walks into the next room, closing the door behind her. James and Debra Lynn exchange looks, then Debra Lynn walks into the kitchen.
Braddock Medical Center....
"No, sweety, that's not it," says Jenna. "It's cancer."
"And all of you have known this and nobody told me?"
"I just found out a few days ago. And then I told Ray."
"And what about you, Lucas?" Alex asks his uncle. "How long have you known?"
"Your mother told me on Christmas Eve. But she begged me not to tell anyone. I couldn't even tell your grandma. Alex, your mother didn't want you to worry."
"No," the boy cries. "No. I don't believe this. Not my Mom. I just lost my Dad....."
Dr. Conrad and the male doctor from earlier walk into the room at that moment. "Dr. Conrad, how's Charlie?" Ray asks.
"Charlie is resting comfortably now," replies Dr. Conrad. "Her breathing has returned to normal. We still have her on oxygen and will keep her on it for the rest of the night just as a precaution. Tomorrow morning she'll be transported to Baylor. I really feel that, because of this episode, Charlie should undergo the remainder of her preparatory chemo in isolation."
"Isolation?" Alex asks. "In the hospital?"
"Yes."
"Can we see her?" Jenna asks.
"Yes but only for a moment. And, please, whatever you do, keep her calm. That's the main thing right now, that Charlie get plenty of rest so that her body remains strong enough to put up a fight. Come on. I'll take you to her."
Ray, Jenna, Lucas, and Alex follow Dr. Conrad down the hall to see Charlie. Christopher and Emma, who had been waiting in the hallway, remain behind. They exchange worried looks as they watch the others head down the hall. Dr. Conrad leads them into an examining room, where Charlie lays on a bed, hooked up to a heart monitor, and oxygen tubes in her nose. Ray, Jenna, and Lucas walk over to her. Alex looks on from the doorway.
"Hello, sweetheart," Jenna says, taking her daughter's hand.
"Hi, Mom," Charlie says weakly. "I'm sorry."
"Shhhh....you have nothing to be sorry for."
"Alex," says Charlie.
"Alex is here," Ray says. "He knows everything, Charlie. We had to tell him."
Charlie looks over at her son and manages a smile.
The Smithfield Home....the next morning
"Mom?" Todd finally says.
Linda turns around to face her son. "Todd. You didn't come home last night, did you?"
"No. I didn't really wanna face anyone. Especially not Jay or Dad, so I stayed at my apartment."
"Mom, I'm sorry if I've upset the family. I only did my job."
"And disgraced my first cousin in the process."
"Anita disgraced herself by having an affair with J.R. for over a decade," Todd says.
"Perhaps. But was it absolutely necessary to publicly expose her..... indiscretion......in open court in such a public way? Anita was my Daddy's favorite niece, Todd, and I don't think he would be very pleased at the way you ripped into her on that stand. Or that you took this case at all. Why didn't you just take Jay's advice and get another attorney to handle this for John Ross Ewing?"
"At the expense of your family?" Asks Linda.
Todd looks at his mother, pain in his eyes, unable to tell her why he fought so hard to win John Ross's case. "Is Dad home?"
"No, he had an early meeting," Linda replies as her younger son, Dylan Baxter, walks in carrying his school backpack.
"Hey, little brother," Todd says, greeting his brother with a handshake. "Headed off to class?"
"I sure am. Hey, I heard about your big win in court yesterday. Congratulations, even if it was against Jay."
A look of sadness crosses Todd's face upon hearing his brother's words. "Thanks, Dylan," he says.
"Dylan, honey, you'd better get goin'," Linda says. "Don't wanna be late."
"You're right," agrees Dylan. "I wish I hadn't taken an 8:00 class. Todd, maybe we can hang out this weekend?"
"Yeah, sure, bro. Just text me."
"I will. Bye, Mom."
"Bye, Dylan," Linda says as her younger son kisses her on the cheek. Evan smiles, then walks out of the room.
"He sure grew up fast, Mom," Todd says sadly.
"Yes. Both my boys did. Sometimes I wish there hadn't been an eleven year age difference between you and Dylan. He was a lonely child. At least you had Jay and Leslie."
Todd sighs. "Yeah. I really dread goin' in to the office and facin' Jay this morning. He wasn't happy with me at all when he left the courtroom yesterday."
Linda walks over to her son and puts her hand gently against his face. "You and your cousin have always been very close. You'll work this out."
"I know you're disappointed in me," Todd says. "Especially for shaming Anita."
"I am. But you're my son, Todd. And I love you. So does your father. If you get a chance, talk to him today."
"I will, Mom. I'd better go."
Linda smiles, then hugs her son. Todd manages a weak smile back, then turns and leaves. After he's gone, Linda looks at a portrait hanging above the fireplace of her father, the late Harve Smithfield.
Tripp's Condo....
"Oh, yes," Pamela replies, showing Tripp the newspaper front page with the article about John Ross's court victory
"So was I," Pamela says with disappointment. "This will make things a little more difficult for us to get Westar away from John Ross."
"Yeah. Ten shares may not sound like a lot, but it would've definitely put you one up on him."
"There has to be some other way."
"How about Jill's mother, Kimberly Cryder?" Tripp asks.
"Yeah, sure she must still own a decent chunk of Westar stock," says Pamela. "Why don't you have your grandfather talk to her? They're still pretty friendly, aren't they?"
"I'm smiling because I'm so happy. I have the most beautiful girl in the world at my side."
"Do you know why I'm happy?"
"Tell me," Tripp says.
"I'm happy because soon, I'll have my revenge on that jackass I was married to, and the most incredible man I've ever met is going to be sharing in that victory with me."
Tripp leans over and kisses her again. "It's early yet. Why don't we go back to bed for a while?"
"I'm not sleepy," Pamela says playfully.
"Who said anything about sleeping?"
Pamela laughs. "That's very tempting, but, we both have a lot to do today. You should talk to your grandfather as soon as possible so we can get Kimberly Cryder on our side. And, I need to get back to my own apartment for a while and make sure my mother and father haven't killed each other since I've last been home."
Tripp sighs. "Okay. Guess I'll have something to look forward to tonight, then."
Pamela looks at him with a smile, then gently touches his face. "Tripp, we haven't talked much lately about where this is going."
"Where.....what's going?"
"This. Us. Our relationship."
Tripp takes her by the hand. "Well, I know exactly where I want it to go. I love you, Pamela Barnes. I've never felt this way about anyone in my whole life. It's amazing. Just a few months ago, when my brother my died, it felt like the end of the world. I came to Dallas bound and determined to find out what happened to Hunter, and make the Ewings pay. Then I got sidetracked because I met this most incredible, beautiful young woman. And I fell head over heels."
Pamela smiles, then kisses him again. "Ya know, maybe we could spare a little time before we start our day. Half an hour, an hour....."
Tripp starts kissing Pamela passionately....
Southfork....
"Let me guess," says Christopher. "You were reading about John Ross winning the case."
"Don't know why, all it did was make me angrier."
"That sure was some ugly stuff Todd Baxter brought out in court yesterday," Ann says, taking a seat at the table.
"I always knew that there were things about J.R. I didn't know," Bobby says. "And I was happy in my ignorance of those things."
"What do you think Justin and James will do?" Emma asks.
Bobby sighs. "Well, Justin was really angry last night. I think somehow he's gonna find a way to fight John Ross. I even told him that we could appeal."
"Do you think that was wise, Bobby?" Ann asks. "Look at all the hurt this first fight caused. Do we really need ANOTHER battle between J.R.'s sons?"
"Ya know, as much as I hate to admit it," says Christopher. "I felt bad for John Ross. After all, Grandpa bought that stock in Cyberbyte and left it to John Ross. Was it really fair for Uncle J.R. to turn around and split it three ways between John Ross, James and Justin?"
Bobby and Ann look at Christopher with puzzled expressions. "I never thought I'd hear you stickin' up for John Ross like that," Ann says.
"Neither did, " Bobby agrees.
"Dad, I just know how I'd feel if you did the same. If Grandpa had set up some trust for me and you turned around and divided it between me and Lucas. Now, after a rough starts, Lucas and I get along like real brothers these days, so I'd probably give him half of whatever inheritance I got that he wasn't part of, but that's not true for John Ross, James, and Justin. I can just understand why he did what he did. I only wish it hadn't gotten so ugly."
"So do I," says Bobby.
"Well, I'm gonna get goin'," Christopher says. "I'm gonna stop by the hospital before comin' to the office. Charlie's
"You've been spending a good bit of time with Charlie lately, haven't you?" Bobby asks.
"Yeah. Just tryin' to help. She needs all the support she can get right now."
"Yes, she does. I'm glad she has a friend like you."
Christopher looks at his father and hesitates a moment, then stands from the table, grabs his coat from the back of the chair and leaves.
Baylor Cancer Hospital....
Dr. Conrad walks into the room. "Good morning, Charlie," she says. "How're you feeling?"
"Peachy," Charlie says weakly.
"Dr. Conrad, will Charlie have to remain in the hospital until the transplant?" Jenna asks.
"I'm afraid so. I really had hoped that Charlie would be strong enough to have her treatments as an outpatient, but after yesterday's incident, I'd feel a lot better with her here, where we can monitor her closely. Her next chemo is tomorrow morning. Charlie, you get some rest, and I'll check in on you in a little while." Dr. Conrad turns and walks out of the room.
"Mom," Charlie says.
"Yes, sweetheart?"
"Alex......how is he?"
"Alex is fine," Lucas replies. "I checked on him this morning before I came here."
"Charlie, I hope you don't mind, but I decided to let Alex stay home from school today. Ray's with him. I don't think he was in any condition to go."
"That's fine, Mom," says Charlie. "You know, before yesterday, this all seemed unreal to me. The cancer. These treatments. A week ago, I had cancer but I was doing fine. Now, here I am in this hospital and I may not ever leave here."
"Charlie, don't say that," Lucas insists. "You're gonna beat this."
Charlie looks at her brother and smiles. "I wish I was as sure as you are, little brother. But I have to be prepared."
Jenna and Lucas exchange worried looks.
A moment later, Lucas and Jenna walk out of Charlie's room after she falls asleep. After Lucas closes Charlie's door, Jenna starts to cry. Lucas puts his arms around his mother. "It's okay, Mom," he says in an attempt to comfort her.
"Lucas, I'm so frightened. I'm more worried about Charlie's attitude than anything else. She seems to be giving up, and that's not going to help her get better."
"We have to be strong, and positive for her, Mom," Lucas says as he hugs his mother. But he is also worried about his sister winning this battle.
The Omni Hotel....later
"Hi," she says. "I'm glad to see you. You haven't been around to see me in two days."
"Sorry, I been busy," he says.
"Too busy to check on your pregnant wife?"
John Ross looks at her. "Whether or not you're pregnant and whether or not you're legally my wife both remain to be seen. Change your clothes."
"Why?" Amanda asks.
"Because you have a 2 pm appointment with a doctor to have a pregnancy test."
"And if the test comes back positive, are you gonna stop treating me like a common criminal?"
Amanda looks at him in silence for a moment, her heart breaking at his cruel words. "You really hate me that much?"
"I don't feel anything for you."
"John Ross, you did love me. I know you did," Amanda says in tears.
"My mistake. Whatever it was I felt for you died the day I found out you were stabbin' me in the back. Now, get dressed."
Amanda sighs, then walks to the dresser, where she grabs a change of clothes, then heads into the bathroom to change.
Southfork....
"Hi," Ashley says. "I'm sorry, I didn't mean to disturb you. I was out walking and, I kinda got lost."
"That's right. I'm Ashley. Ashley Beaumont. And you're......Alex, right?"
"Yeah. I didn't know that you lived here. How come I haven't seen you around?"
"We don't live here," Ashley says. "Just visiting. My Dad, James, had to be here for that stupid court thing my Uncle John Ross had goin' on, and my Mom and I decided to come with him since I'm out of school this week on winter break. My brother Jimmy lives here. Or, I mean, he just moved to Dallas. He started school at SMU this semester."
"Oh."
"How about you?" Ashley asks, walking over to him. "Are you on winter break, too?"
"No. I just stayed out today."
Ashley smiles. "Must be nice to be able to do that without being sick." Alex lowers his head and looks away. Ashley notices his sullen mood. "You looked like you were thinkin' about somethin' really serious. Is everything okay?"
"No," Alex replies, shaking his head.
"You wanna talk about it?"
"My Mom's in the hospital."
"I'm sorry," Ashley says. "I hope it's nothing serious."
"She has cancer."
Ashley's heart drops upon hearing Alex's words. "Oh...my God, I'm sorry sorry," she nervously says. "Alex, if you need someone to talk to, I can be a really good listener."
Alex looks at the pretty girl, the only person his own age who has offered to be his friend since he moved here. "Thanks," he says. "You said you got lost?"
"Yeah," Ashley says with a slight laugh. "I didn't mean to stray this far."
"I can take you back. But, you wanna go for a walk first? Unless you have somethin' to do."
Ashley smiles. "I don't have a thing to do. And I'd love to take a walk with you."
"Let's go then. I've gotten lost here myself, but as long as we stick to the part of the ranch I know, we'll be fine," Alex says as he and his new friend begin the trail around the pond.
Reverchon Park, Dallas....
"Mr. Barnes," Tripp says.
"Tripp, I told you to call me Cliff. Thanks for meeting me."
"No problem, but why here?"
"Pamela took her mother to lunch, and since they didn't tell me where they were going, I didn't wanna take a chance of running into them at some restaurant," Cliff says. "So, did you talk to your grandfather about our plan?"
"I did," Tripp replies. "And he's on board."
Cliff smiles. "Oh, that's wonderful. With your granddaddy workin' the Westar board, our plan is beginning to fall into place."
"Because of Pamela?"
"Cliff, I love your daughter, and I won't do anything to mess up the best thing that's ever happened to me."
"Son, I already told you," says Cliff. "Pamela is NOT gonna find out that you helped me on this. When the Westar board names me CEO, Pamela will think I did it on my own, with your granddaddy's help. You'll be in the clear."
"And you promise me, you'll have a place in the company for Pamela?"
"Absolutely. And you, too. You're a bright young man, Tripp. You could go far in the business world. And together, you, me, and Pamela can take Westar to heights that company has never been before."
"I do like the sound of that," says Tripp. "My grandfather will, too. Westar has and always will hold a special place in his heart."
Tripp manages a weak smile, then nods. Cliff places his hand on Tripp's shoulder and smiles at him, then without saying another word, Cliff turns and walks away.
Southfork....late afternoon
"James, thank God you're back," she says.
"Debra Lynn, what is it?"
"It's Ashley. She was bored and wanted to take a walk, so she went out a couple of hours ago. She should've been back by now."
"Well did you try calling her?" James asks.
"Of course I did. Her phone just goes straight to voicemail."
"Alright, don't worry. I'll go out and look for her."
I'll come with you," Debra Lynn says.
"No, it's better if you stay here in case she comes back," James says. "Debra Lynn, try not to worry. I'm sure she's fine. We'll be back soon." James quickly hurries back out to look for the girl as Debra Lynn continues to worry.
Meanwhile....
"Are you always this quiet?" Ashley asks after a while.
"I just have a lot on my mind."
"Your Mom?"
"Yeah."
Ashley sits up and looks at him. "I meant what I said. If you wanna talk about it, we can."
"Thanks, but, there's nothin' to say. Talking about it won't help. It won't change it. But I do feel a little better."
"You do?" Ashley asks.
"Yeah," Alex replies. "I had a nice time with you. And you're the first real friend I've met in this place. That's my age, I mean. I kinda wish you lived here."
"Real sweet thing to say. Alex, are we.....related?"
"No. Since Ray is just my step-grandpa, we're not related at all."
"Good."
Alex looks down at him. "Yeah, Justin, I'm up here."
"Who's up there with you?"
"Ashley Beaumont," Alex replies.
Justin smiles, then climbs the latter up to the hayloft.
"Not a thing," Ashley says.
"Hope I aint interruptin' somethin'."
"You're not," says Alex, standing to his feet.
Ashley takes her cell phone from her pocket and looks at it. "I didn't realize it was getting so late. I have four missed calls from my mom. I'd better get back."
"Okay," Alex says. "Thanks for hangin' with me today. I had a really good time."
Ashley smiles. "So did I. We're gonna be here through the weekend, I think. Maybe we can hang out again."
"Yeah, sure. Just text me."
"I will. Bye, UNCLE Justin." Ashley climbs down the latter.
"Bye," Justin says, still smiling. He looks at Alex. "So, my man. What was REALLY goin' on?"
"Nothing, I SWEAR. I was out by the pond, and Ashley had gone for a walk and got lost. So, we came back here. I needed a friend today."
"Why, anything wrong?"
Alex sighs. "My Mom's in the hospital. I found out last night, she has cancer, Justin."
"Oh my God, dude. I'm so sorry. Is there anything I can do?"
"Thanks, man. I don't guess there's anything anyone can do," Alex says as his cell phone rings. He takes the phone from his pocket and answers it. "Hello? Grandma, I'm fine. Yeah I'm at Southfork. Okay. I'll be waiting. Bye." He ends the call and puts his phone back into his pocket.
"Everything okay?" Justin asks.
"That was my Grandma. She and my Grandpa are heading back to the hospital to see my Mom and they want me to come with them. They're gonna pick me up here."
"Alex, I'm real sorry to hear about your Mama. She seems like a real nice lady. If you ever need a friend, I'm here, man."
"Thanks. I really appreciate that. You and Ashley are the only friends I've made in this hick place. I guess I'd better go wait for my grandparents."
"If you want to, after you get back from the hospital, you can come over and hang out with me at the bunkhouse for a while. We can watch a movie, or just talk."
"Thanks. I'd like that." Without another word, Alex walks over and climbs down the latter. After he's gone, Justin sits down on a bale of hay. He sighs deeply, saddened by the news Alex had told him, and feeling sorry for the boy.
Meanwhile....
"I told you I was going for a walk."
"Yes, and that was two and a half hours ago. I've been worried sick. Your father's out looking for you. I called you and you didn't answer."
"I'm sorry. I had my phone on vibrate."
"Where were you all this time?" Debra Lynn asks.
"I went out walking, and I got lost," Ashley replies, feeling it best not to mention to her mother that she had been with a boy for almost two hours.
Debra Lynn sighs. "I'd better call your father and let him know you're back safe."
As her mother picks up her cell phone to call James, Ashley walks over and looks out the window. She smiles as she thinks about the handsome new friend she made.
Southfork....late evening
"Bobby, look who's here," Ann says.
"Lucy? Oh my gosh, Lucy!" Bobby says happily.
Lucy stands and walks over to greet him. "Hi, Bobby," she says, giving him a hug.
"Lucy, it's great to see you. What are you doin' here?"
"That's great. How long can ya stay?"
"A while. I'm really in no hurry to get back home."
"Well, it's gonna be great havin' you around."
"I'll check on dinner," Ann says. She smiles, then leaves the room.
"Bobby, Ann was telling me about Charlie," Lucy says. "That's horrible."
"Yeah, it is. She's at Baylor Cancer Hospital in Dallas right now." Bobby walks to the bar. "You want another drink?"
"I'd love one," she replies. "I just can't believe it. I just saw her when I was here during my Christmas visit. She seemed fine. Looked so healthy and everything."
"I know," Bobby says as he pours two glass of bourbon. He hands one to Lucy. "This all happened really fast. Charlie had been diagnosed with cancer right before she and her son came here to spend Christmas. She was doin' okay, but after she started chemo this week to prepare for her bone marrow transplant, it really knocked her for a loop."
"Just goes to show you how fast everything can change. Bobby, this must be really hard on you. I know you always thought of Charlie as a daughter."
"Yeah. It's hard," he says as John Ross arrives home and walks into the living room. He is surprised to see his eldest cousin.
"Lucy, hello," John Ross says.
"Hi, John Ross."
"What in the world brings you back to Southfork?"
"I missed home, and wanted to visit for a while."
"Good. Really good to see you. Even'in, Uncle Bobby."
"John Ross," Bobby says coldly. "Excuse me, Lucy, I think I'll go upstairs and change before dinner."
"Sure," Lucy says as Bobby walks out of the room. She turns to John Ross after Bobby leaves. "I heard about your little court victory. I guess that's why Bobby seems.....upset with you?"
"Yeah, I guess so," John Ross says. "But then it duttin' take much to piss Uncle Bobby off these days. Least from me."
Smithfield And Bennett....the next morning
"Morning, Tara," Jay says to her.
"Good morning, Mr. Smithfield,"
"Any messages for me?"
"Yes, Bobby Ewing called and wants you to call him back as soon as you can. And, you also had a message from Senator Matt Culver."
"Okay, thanks. Oh, is my cousin in his office yet?" Jay asks.
"Yes, he is."
"Thanks, Tara." Jay walks over to Todd's office and knocks on the door.
"Come in," he hears Todd say.
Jay walks into the office and closes the door behind him. "Todd," he says.
"Morning, Jay. What can I do for you?"
"I figured you would," Todd says.
"You know, I still can't figure out why you took this case, knowing the damage it would do. Especially the way you grilled Anita on the stand."
"Jay, Anita's a lawyer. So are you. You both know how it's done."
"I would never take a case where I had to destroy the reputation of a family member in open court," Jay says. "And the Todd I thought I knew wouldn't have, either."
Todd remains silent, and looks away.
"You can't even look at me anymore," Jay says. "By the way, have you spoken to Grandmother at all?"
"No. Been busy."
"I have a feeling it's another reason. I think you're feeling guilty for taking on this case. Or maybe you're feeling guilty for winning."
"That's the dumbest thing I've ever heard," Todd says. "What lawyer in his right mind would feel guilty for winning a case?"
"Any lawyer with good ethics who knew he was on the wrong side." Without another word, Jay turns and leaves the office, but not before giving his cousin another angry look.
Todd stands from his seat and walks over to his bar. After a brief hesitation, he pours himself a scotch and finishes it
Westar....
"I'm sorry, Mr. Ewing, but I think you'd better come out here."
John Ross sighs deeply, then stands to his feet. He walks out of his office and into over to Melissa's desk in the reception area. "What is so important?" He asks. Melissa points behind him. John Ross turns around and sees Pamela moving some things into a vacant office. Irritated, John Ross walks over to the office. "Pamela, what the hell do you think you're doin'?"
"What does it look like? I'm moving in."
"Over my dead body."
"This is NOT your office," John Ross says.
"I beg to differ. You see, you are no longer the sole majority stockholder in Westar. We each now own 25 and a half percent, which gives me every right to take an office here. And then I can just sit back and wait until the next board meeting when you're voted out as CEO."
"Let's just say I'm working on that. And I expect to have enough votes by the time that next scheduled board meeting rolls around."
"You really think I'm gonna let you get away with this?" John Ross asks.
"You have no choice."
"Oh, there is ALWAYS choice, Pamela. I beat my brothers in court over my Daddy's will. You really think I'm gonna let my whore of an ex-wife beat me?"
"You're a fine one to talk about me being a whore when you were the one out screwing around every chance you got while we were married."
"If you'd have kept me happy at home, I wouldn't have found the need to seek sexual satisfaction elsewhere."
"Pamela keeps me VERY happy," says Tripp, who is standing in the doorway behind John Ross. Tripp walks into the office and over to Pamela's side. "From what she says, you were the one who was inadequate."
"McKay, what are you doin' here?" John Ross asks.
"I'm here to make sure the woman I love gets everything that she deserves."
John Ross looks at the couple and smiles. Then he laughs as he turns and starts to leave the office. He stops in the doorway and turns back to them and laughs again.
"Would you mind telling me what's so funny?" Pamela asks.
"It's what McKay said. About you gettin' everything that you deserve. Well, now that you're hooked up with him, I think you're BOTH gettin' exactly what you deserve. Don't get too comfortable in my office." Still smiling, John Ross walks out and closes the door.
The Cattlemen's Club.....later
Bobby is having lunch with Jay Smithfield at the Cattlemen's Club early in the afternoon.
"Jay, thank you for meeting with me this afternoon," Bobby says.
"It's no problem, Bobby. I've already filed a motion to appeal Judge Brewster's decision."
"I honestly never thought John Ross would win."
"Are you sayin' you don't think an appeal can be won?" Bobby asks.
"No, I'm not sayin' that at all. Anything can happen. I didn't know J.R. that well. But, from what you and others have told me, J.R. was ruthless, but not crazy."
"Of course he wasn't crazy. My brother may have done things that were a little unorthodox, but he always had a reason and an agenda. And I really appreciate you filing this appeal."
"Glad to do it, Bobby."
"Listen, how are things between you and your cousin Todd since the two of you had to butt heads in court over this?"
"Distant? In what way?"
"When Todd and I were kids.....well, I never had a brother. Only my sister, Leslie. And Todd's brother, Dylan, was eleven years younger than him, so growing up, Todd and I were like brothers. He was four years younger than me and he was the kid brother I never had. We were so close, even as adults. He was the one person I felt I could tell anything to, and he always confided in me. But lately, he barely talks to me. And this case, it's like he didn't really wanna take it, and now he's acting like he's ashamed that he won."
"Ashamed that he won?" Bobby asks.
"Yeah, it's weird."
"Yeah."
"Jay, could it be possible that Todd was forced into takin' this case when he really didn't want to?"
"What do you mean?" Jay asks.
"I know my nephew and I know how he operates. Could John Ross have blackmailed him into it?"
"I really don't see how, Bobby. My cousin is about as squeaky clean as they come. I seriously can't see Todd having ANYTHING in his life that could be used for blackmail, and I know him better than just about anybody."
"Maybe it's not Todd directly," says Bobby. "He could be protectin' someone else. Recently, John Ross tried to blackmail a very high placed and well respected person. When he couldn't find anything on that person he could use, he did the next best thing. He went after someone that person loved. Tried usin' somethin' from their past against the person he needed a favor from."
"I see. John Ross is really that devious?"
"Oh, yes. That devious, and more so."
"Bobby it sounds like you're describing J.R.," says Jay.
"Well, if I didn't know any better, Jay, I'd almost think that J.R. and John Ross were the same person. Do me a favor and look into that for me? Keep an eye on Todd, because if I'm right about this, then John Ross isn't gonna be happy strong arming Todd this one time. He'll keep goin' back every time he needs a favor."
"I sure will," Jay says. "If John Ross is blackmailing my cousin, then I'll do anything I can to help Todd.
Baylor Cancer Hospital....
"Well, you're a sight for sore eyes," he says, hugging her. "What in the world are you doin' here?"
"After my visit at Christmas, I got to missing Southfork. But more than that I missed the family, so I decided to take a leave from my job and come home for a while."
"Lucy, that's just great," Ray says with a smile.
"I heard about Charlie," Lucy says. "Ray, I'm so sorry. How is she?"
"Well, she's havin' a pretty rough day. She just got back to her room from a chemo treatment a little while ago. She got sick, so they had to give her somethin' for nausea. She's almost asleep now."
"I won't disturb her, then. How about a cup of coffee in the cafeteria?"
"That sounds nice," Ray says. "We can catch up."
Smithfield And Bennett
Sitting at his desk, Todd cringes at the thought of having to see John Ross. He hesitates a moment.
"Mr. Baxter?" The secretary calls to him again.
"Yes. Yes. Tell Mr. Ewing I'm busy."
"He says it's very important that he see you."
Todd sighs deeply. "Alright. Send him in," he says. He opens a drawer of his desk and takes out a bottle of pills. Opening the bottle, he pops a pill into his mouth, then washes it down with a sip of scotch from a glass sitting on his desk. He puts the pills back and closes the drawer as John Ross walks in.
"Well, Todd," John Ross says. "Didn't get my calls?"
"I did. I've just been busy. What do you want, John Ross?"
"Now is that any way to talk to the client who gave you the biggest win of your short career so far?"
"Would you just tell me what you want?" Todd asks. "I'm very busy."
"First of all, I wanna thank you for everything you did in winnin' me this case. You did an exeptional job, Baxter. And the second thing I wanted is.....I need your help again."
"With what?"
"My ex-wife, Pamela, has taken an office a Westar. I want you to find a way to get that bitch out of my comp'ny."
"And how am I supposed to do that?" Todd asks. "Pamela won the case. She has half of your Westar shares, which gives her the right to hold an office in the company if she so chooses. There's nothing I can do about that."
"Well, maybe if you had tried a little harder when my divorce case went to court, we wouldn't be havin' this discussion now. I want her OUT of Westar, Todd, and I want my shares back. You're a brilliant legal brain, you must know a way."
"There isn't a way."
"Then find somethin' I can use to blackmail a damn judge into reversin' that decision."
Todd stands to his feet. "John Ross, I know this may come as a shock to you, but not everyone has skeletons in their closet that you can dig up and use to force them into being your personal slave." He walks to the bar and pours himself another drink.
"You've already done enough," Todd says angrily as he takes a sip of his drink.
John Ross walks over to him. "Look, Todd, I'm not askin' you to do anything outside the realm of possibility. You're a lawyer, and a damned good one. Lawyers find legal loopholes all the time. That's all I'm askin' you to do. Just find some minor loophole that will keep Pamela out of my comp'ny, and out of my hair."
"John Ross, I can't do this anymore," Todd says, turning to face him. "I can't be your puppet anymore, and I won't let you blackmail me anymore."
"Oh? Are you prepared to come out to your fam'ly? Because if you are, Todd, then I commend you on that very....brave.....decision. But I don't think you're prepared to do that just yet. I know how your mama and your grandmama are. Real conservative folks, I hear. And from what I hear, you got your eye on maybe takin' Matt Culver's place down in the state senate when he runs for his daddy's old seat in Washington."
Todd turns around and looks at John Ross. "You son of a bitch," he says.
"Well, I have been called that before, and worse. Just do what I ask, Todd, and you're little secret is perfectly safe with me."
Todd's secretary buzzes his intercom at that moment. "Mr. Baxter, I hate to interrupt, but Senator Culver is here."
"Well, now, Senator Culver," John Ross says. "Funny, we were just talkin' about him, and he shows up. Bet that'd never happen again in a million years, huh?"
Todd walks over to his desk and presses the intercom button. "Thank you. Please send the Senator in." He then turns back to John Ross. "I think we're done here."
"I'll be expectin' to hear from you, Todd, with some good news. Be seein' ya." As John Ross starts to leave, young Senator Matt Culver walks in.
John Ross smiles at him. "Well, if it itn't my future cousin-in-law," he says. "How's it goin', Senator?"
"John Ross," Matt says coldly.
John Ross walks past Matt and out of the office, closing the door behind him.
Matt walks over to Todd. "Everything okay?"
"Yeah," Todd replies, his tone not convincing Matt. "Everything's just fine. Let's get on with our meeting."
Matt looks concerned about Todd's mood, and the fact that John Ross was just here visiting his attorney. Having dealt with John Ross himself, Matt knows what kind of person his future cousin-in-law is.
Downtown Dallas
"Mrs. Cryder," he says.
"Mr. Barnes. Please, have a seat."
"Thank you," Cliff says, taking a seat across the table from her. "Thank you for agreeing to have lunch with me."
"I was curious as to what you had to say."
"I'm here to talk to you about Westar, and how we can get that snake John Ross out of there."
"I'm not sure I understand," Kimberly says.
"Well, as you've probably heard from your daughter, my daughter Pamela recently received half of John Ross's shares in Westar, which means he doesn't own a majority of the company anymore. A board meeting of Westar is coming up in the next few weeks, and I feel that would be the perfect time to oust John Ross as CEO of that company."
"To do that, Mr. Barnes, you would need enough votes from the board."
"I know, and that's where YOU come in. I understand you still have a lot of influence with the board members."
Kimberly smiles. "I should. After all my father started that company, and most of the board members were friends of his."
"Good. Mrs. Cryder, I want you to use your influence with the board to convince them to vote John Ross out at that next meeting."
"And why should I do that?" Kimberly asks.
"Because John Ross Ewing stole Westar away from your daughter. He stole a position that you put your daughter in. With your vote, and with the other board members on our side, we can do it."
"And I gain.....exactly what?"
"The satisfaction of knowing that a Ewing isn't running the company your daddy started."
Kimberly is silent for a moment. "I'll have to think about this. Mr. Barnes, I'm not a well woman. I've been ill for almost a year now, and I just don't have the fight in me that I use to have. I have loved Westar for as long as I can remember. And I tried to pass that legacy on to my daughter. But John Ross stole that legacy from her. Yes, Mr. Barnes. I would like nothing better than to kick that arrogant punk right out of Westar on his ass."
"Then join us in this fight," Cliff says. "Carter McKay and his grandson are on board with us. And we could sure use you, and your influence with the board." Cliff looks over Kimberly's shoulder and sees Emma walk into the restaurant. "Mrs. Cryder, would you excuse me, please?"
"Of course."
"Think about what I said." Cliff reaches into his pocket and pulls out a card. "Here's my business card with my cell number. Give me a call." Cliff smiles at her, then gets up from the table and walks across the crowded restaurant to the table where Emma has been seated by the hostess, who hands her a menu and walks away. "Hello, Emma," Cliff says.
"Oh, hello."
"May I please sit down?"
"I don't know if that's such a good idea," Emma replies. "I'm expecting Ann."
"I won't be long," Cliff says, taking a seat across from her. "You look beautiful."
"Thank you."
"How've you been? Any.....after effects of the surgery?"
"No, I'm doing just fine now."
"I'm so happy to hear that. I've been hoping ever since we talked in December that you'd call me and we could maybe have lunch. Emma, you're my daughter, and I'd really like to get to know you. And I get the feeling you'd like to get to know a little about me, too."
Meanwhile, Ann walks into the restaurant, where she's greeted by the hostess. The smile quickly disappears from Ann's face when she sees Cliff sitting with Emma. Angry, she marches over to the table to intervene. "What are you doin' with my daughter?" Ann asks.
"I'm just chatting with Emma, who happens to be MY daughter, too. A fact you always conveniently seem to forget," says Cliff.
"I've warned you before," Ann says. "Stay away from Emma."
"Emma, are you alright?" Ann asks.
"I'm fine. Is what he says true? Is he really the big, bad monster you and the rest of the Ewings say he is? Or not? After all, he did save my life by donating a kidney."
"Yes, so he could get out of prison," says Ann. "Emma, if you wanna know whether Cliff Barnes is a monster or not, all you have to do is ask his other daughter, Pamela."
Emma looks at her mother, confused about her feelings about this man she only recently learned was her biological father. And unsure of whether she could satisfy that curiosity without at least getting to know him and discovering for herself what kind of man he is.
Ewing Global.....late afternoon
"Thank you, Bobby. I had to be in town on some business and I had a meeting with Todd Baxter. Margaret wanted to see her father and I wanted to drop by and say hello to you and Sue Ellen, so we decided to kill two birds with one stone."
Bobby smiles. "Well, it's always great to see you, Matt. Unfortunately, Sue Ellen isn't here."
"Oh?"
"I suppose you've heard about John Ross contesting the codicil to J.R.'s will in court. Sue Ellen was pretty upset over some of the things that were brought out in court, so she took a few days off and went out of town with a friend on a well deserved vacation."
"I'm sorry to hear that," says Matt. "Speaking of John Ross, I saw him earlier."
"You did? Where?" Bobby asks.
"Todd Baxter's office. I was there talking to Todd about my senate campaign for next year. You know, Todd has political aspirations and he's hopeful of taking my place in the statehouse if I win the U.S. senate seat. John Ross was there when I arrived, and from the impression I got, their conversation must've been pretty serious."
"Yeah. Todd just seemed, I dunno, nervous. But I guess John Ross has that affect on people."
"Yes, he does. Some more than others," Bobby says, almost convinced now that John Ross is holding something over Todd's head.
Baylor Cancer Hospital.....later
"Hey, Margaret," he says, greeting her with a hug.
"Hey, how's it going, brother?"
"Eh, could be better," he replies. "Charlie has to be in isolation now and only me, my Mom, and Ray are allowed in to see her, and we have to wear these masks and gowns to even be in the same room with her."
"That's for her protection."
"I know."
"Lucas, how're you holding up through all this?" Margaret asks, putting a reassuring hand on his arm.
"This whole thing is killin' me, Margaret," Lucas says. "Seein' her like this, knowing there's nothing I can do."
"Lucas, that's not true. You're going to be Charlie's bone marrow donor."
"Yeah but what if it doesn't work?"
"I know," Lucas says, a tear streaming down his face.
"Have you eaten?" Margaret asks. "You look a little pale."
"I ate a bagel this morning."
"This MORNING? Lucas, that was several hours ago. I'm surprised you're still standing up. Come on, I'm taking you to get something to eat."
"I'm not hungry. Besides, I don't wanna leave."
"Text your mom and tell her you'll be back. If she needs you she'll call. Just because you've been demoted from being my brother to being my cousin doesn't mean I don't still think of you as my brother. And I'm not gonna let you make yourself sick. That sure won't do Charlie any good."
Lucas sighs. "You're right. My stomach does feel really empty and my legs are about as weak as jello."
"Come on," Margaret says. She takes Lucas by the arm and they walk down the hall toward the elevators.
Westar....
The Omni Hotel....ten minutes later
"Pack your things," he says angrily.
"What?"
"You heard me. Pack your things."
"Why? Where am I going?"
"I'm takin' you back to Southfork. I got a call from Dr. Hardaway. He confirms that you are indeed pregnant."
"Not about bein' pregnant, anyway. But that still duttin' prove that baby's mine."
"It's YOURS, John Ross. I haven't been with anyone else in a long time."
John Ross looks at her for a moment. "Just get your things together. You're comin' home with me to Southfork. You'll stay there, as my wife, until such time a DNA test can safely be done on that baby you're carryin'."
"And then what? If it's proven to you that the baby is yours, I can stay on as your wife?" Amanda asks sarcastically.
"Ya know, YOU created this situation by lyin' to me, and by workin' for Cliff Barnes to destroy me and my fam'ly. I want you at Southfork durin' this pregnancy to keep an eye on you, and believe me, I WILL be keepin' a close eye on you. If I have any suspicion whatsoever that you're backstabbin' me again with Barnes.......I'll make you wish that you'd never heard the name Ewing. Now get your stuff packed."
Southfork....
Christopher walks into the living room at South- fork that evening as he returns home from the office and is surprised when he finds Justin and Alex watching television. "Hey, guys," Christopher says. "Sup, Christopher," Justin says, while Alex simply gives Christopher an angry look. "What's goin' on? Where is everyone?" |
"Yeah, I just left the hospital and I saw Uncle Ray," Christopher says. "He and Jenna have taken a room at a hotel down the street to be near Charlie."
"How's Charlie doin'?" Ann asks.
"That's good."
"Her immediate family?" Alex asks, angrily standing to his feet. Christopher turns around to face the boy. "I'm her SON, and they won't let me in to see her!"
"Alex, it's for your mom's own good," says Christopher. "She's undergoing really intense chemo right now that's destroying her bone marrow and immune system to get her ready for the transplant. Only your grandmother and Ray and Lucas are allowed in her room, and they have to take precautions."
"Yeah sounds pretty lame to me," the boy says. He turns and walks out of one of the French doors leading onto the back porch.
"Alex, wait," Justin calls as he starts after him.
"Justin," Ann says. "Let him go. I think he needs some time."
Justin looks at Ann, then pulls back the curtain and looks onto the porch, where he sees Alex standing by the pool. Worried about the boy but realizing he can't do much to help him, he returns to his seat on the sofa.
Meanwhile, Alex stands by the back porch near the pool, looking out into the darkness. Tears flow down his face as he thinks about his mother, misses her, and feels guilty for the way he's treated her in recent months. He feels the right pocket of his jeans with his hand. Reaching into his pocket, he pulls out a small plastic wrapper containing a small amount of marijuana. Suddenly, he hears someone coming. He quickly shoves the wrapper back into his pocket as he sees Ashley emerge from the shadows.
"Sorry, I think I disturbed you again," the girl says.
"Yeah I guess I was," Alex says sadly.
"Your Mom?"
Alex nods. "They won't let me in to see her because of her chemo. It sucks. It's so unfair."
"I know. You've been crying. I can tell."
"Nah, I'm fine," he says.
"Alex, it's okay. I think guys who aren't afraid to cry are cool. Shows you're human, instead of some macho tough guy, which I don't think is sexy at all."
Alex manages a slight laugh at the comment, then looks at her with a smile. "It's weird, I just met you yesterday, and it's like you're the only person who knows how to make me laugh these days."
Ashley smiles. "Well I consider that a major compliment. You know, I just noticed you're wearing the same shirt you were wearing yesterday when we met. It's kinda cold tonight, aren't you freezing without a coat?"
"I've lived in New York most of my life," Alex says. "I'm use to the cold. Doesn't bother me. But, if you're cold, I've got somethin' that'll warm us both up." He reaches into his pocket and pulls out the plastic wrapper containing the marijuana.
Ashley's smile grows larger as she looks at the wrapper Alex holds in his hand.
A few minutes later....
Bobby sighs as he turns to face them. "I'm really not sure. I had a cocktail with Matt Culver after I left the office and, he said somethin' that got me thinkin'."
"Thinkin' about what?" Ann asks.
"About John Ross, Todd Baxter, and this whole court case over that codicil to J.R.'s will."
"What about it?" Asks Christopher. "Dad, you're not makin' any sense."
Before Bobby can say anymore, Justin walks into the room. Bobby looks at him and smiles. "Justin, hello."
"Hey. Did I interrupt somethin'?"
"No," replies Bobby. "Nothin' that can't wait."
"Well, dinner's just about ready," says Ann. "Justin, why don't you see if you can round Alex up. Christopher, if you would, please knock on Emma's door and let her know."
"Sure," Christopher says.
"I'll tell you later, honey. I'd really rather not say anything until I can confirm that my suspicions are right."
"Alright."
Meanwhile....
"Just went for a walk," replies Alex.
"Well, you'd better get in and wash up. Ann says supper's ready."
"I guess I'd better get back to the cottage," Ashley says with a smile. "Before my parents decide to come looking for me again."
"Night," Justin says.
"Night guys," Ashley says as she turns and walks away.
Alex looks at Justin and smiles. "Guess we'd better get inside. I'm starved."
"Whoa, just a minute, slick," Justin says. "Before you sit down at the table I think you'd better visit the bathroom and wash up a little. Maybe spray some cologne on or change shirts?"
"Why?" Alex asks innocently.
"Why? Don't gimme that crap, dude. You smell like a weed factory. Ya really want Bobby and Ann and Christopher to smell that?"
"Just do us both a favor and wash up and change shirts?" Justin says. "And hurry up."
Alex lets out a deep sigh, then follows Justin into the house.
The dining room....
"Yeah, he's comin'. He went to wash up."
"I sure wish Lucas would have come home for dinner," Emma says.
"Well, I can understand him wantin' to be at the hospital close to Charlie right now," says Bobby.
"I know, I just worry about him. He hasn't been getting much rest at all lately."
At that moment, John Ross and Amanda walk in, much to everyone's surprise. "Well, ev'nin' everyone," John Ross says.
"John Ross," Bobby says.
"Hello, Amanda," says Christopher.
"Hi," she replies nervously.
"Look," John Ross says. "I know y'all must be in shock, me bringin' Amanda back here. But I just got confirmation today that she is indeed pregnant. So I brought her back here to keep an eye on her."
"Well, that's......fine," Ann says. "Are y'all joinin' us for dinner?"
"I'm really not hungry, Mrs. Ewing," Amanda says.
"Amanda, why don't you sit down and have somethin' to eat?" John Ross suggests. "For the baby's sake."
Amanda looks at him and sighs, then she takes a seat next to Christopher.
"That's right," Alex replies.
"Well, what are you doin' over here?" John Ross asks.
"Alex is spenin' the night here with us while Ray and Jenna are stayin' in town so they can be near Charlie at the hospital," Bobby says.
John Ross looks across the table at Justin. "And little brother," he says. "I'm kinda surprised to see you here. Thought maybe you'd be back in Florida with Cally by now."
"I told you, John Ross. I'm not goin' anywhere. But if I'd known you were gonna be here for supper, I wouldn't be."
"Well, don't let me stop ya," John Ross says. "I'm sure you can find the back door on your own."
"Do you always have to be such an ass?" Alex asks.
John Ross looks harshly at the teenager. "Excuse me? I don't recall addressin' you, and I'm sure as hell not gonna take that kind mouth from a teenage hoodlum."
"John Ross, just shut your mouth," Christopher says.
"Can we PLEASE just have dinner in peace around here for once?" Bobby asks, losing patience with his bickering brood.
"It was perfectly peaceful til John Ross arrived," Emma says.
"As part owner of this house and this ranch, I invite anyone who duttin' like my comp'ny to leave," John Ross says.
"Everybody just shut up!" Bobby says angrily. "Now, not another word."
Justin stands to his feet. "If y'all will excuse me, I've lost my appetite. Ann, thanks for the invite."
"Justin, you don't have to go," Ann says.
"I'm sorry. I really just can't to eat with him around." Justin walks out of the room without another word. A few seconds later, the sound of the back door is heard as he leaves the house.
"Well, let's dig in," John Ross says. "I'm famished."
"I'm really not hungry, either," Alex says, getting up from the table. He leaves the room.
"You know, John Ross," Christopher says. "I'd really hoped that one day you'd stop bein' such a jerk to everyone."
Bobby shakes his head, both annoyed and disgusted at the continued strife and discord that always seems to be present at Southfork.
Bobby and Ann's room....later
"I guess things are never gonna change here at Southfork, and in this family. Over the years we've had many different faces around the dinner table, but that conversation tonight could've been one between J.R. and me, J.R. and Lucy, or J.R. and just about anybody years ago."
"I just don't understand why John Ross always has to pick on everyone," Ann says, wrapping her arms around him from behind.
"I just can't believe he brought Amanda back here after what she's done."
Bobby smiles sadly. "Neither can I. But nothin' that goes on around this house surprises me anymore. Now I know how Mama use to feel watchin' all the dysfunction in this family."
Ann kisses him on the cheek. "We may as well get some sleep. It's been a long day."
Todd Baxter's apartment....the next morning
"Hey, big bro," Dylan Baxter says, walking into the apartment.
"Dylan, what are you doing here this early on a Saturday morning?"
The smile disappears from Dylan's face. "Todd, you're kidding, right?"
"Don't you remember? Dude, I have that presentation I have to give in class next week. You said you'd help me with it this weekend."
"Oh, God, Dylan. I'm sorry. I totally forgot."
"Forgot?" Dylan asks. "Todd, I asked you like a week and a half ago, and then reminded you a couple times since then. You said you were down with helping me."
"Can't you get Jay to help?" Todd asks.
"Okay, look, tell ya what. Just give me about twenty minutes to hop in the shower and kinda wake up, and we can work on your project."
Dylan smiles. "Sure. Thanks bro."
As Todd is about to head to take a shower his doorbell rings again. "Damn it, who the hell can that be?" He complains. He walks over and opens the door. His second visitor of the morning is his cousin Jay.
"Can we talk?" Jay asks.
"Look, Jay, it's really not a good time. Dylan's here and I'm gonna help him with a project for school."
"This will only take a few minutes," Jay says, walking into the apartment. He looks at his younger cousin. "Dylan would you mind if Todd and I had a word alone?"
"Sure," the young man replies. "Todd, I'll just wait in your bedroom."
An exasperated Todd lets out a sigh. Dylan walks into his brother's bedroom and closes the door while Todd walks to the bar and pours himself another drink. "What do you want, Jay?"
"About what?" Todd asks, taking a sip of his drink.
"About THIS, for one. Since when have you started drinking this early in the morning?"
"Didn't sleep well last night. Just something to help me relax."
Jay walks over to his cousin. "Todd, what the hell's really goin' on with you?"
"I don't know what you mean."
"Oh, come on, sure you do. Todd, we've known each other our whole lives. Not only are we first cousins, but we've always been more like brothers. We've never been afraid to tell each other anything. But lately, it's like I don't even know you anymore. You're like a totally different person, Todd. And it all started when you took John Ross Ewing's case to challenge that codicil to J.R.'s will. Todd, is John Ross holding something over you? Is that why you took his case?"
"That's ridiculous," Todd says.
"Is it? You haven't been the same since you came into my office that day and told me you were filing the motion to contest the codicil for John Ross. And you've hardly acted like an attorney who's just won a big case. You act as if you almost wish you hadn't won. Come on, man. If you're in trouble, you can tell me."
"I'm not in trouble. Everything is fine."
"You sure?" Jay asks.
"I'm sure."
Jay is silent for a moment as he looks at Todd. "Okay, then. Todd, I love you, and I wanna help you. But I can't if you won't confide in me." Jay walks to the door, then turns back to Todd. "I just want you to know, when you're ready to tell me what's really goin' on, I'm here for you." Jay then leaves.
Southfork....
Ashley walks into the living room at Southfork that morning through one of the French doors leading from the back porch. "Hello?" She calls out. "Anyone home?" "Good morning," Ann says, walking in from the kitchen. "Morning, Ann." "What can I do for you?" Before Ashley can answer Ann's question, Alex walks into the room. |
"Hi," says Ashley.
"Well, I guess you're here to see Alex," Ann says.
"Yes ma'am," Ashley says.
Ann smiles at the two teens, then turns and walks out.
"I was just wondering if you wanted to go riding? Or maybe a walk?"
"Sure. A ride sounds nice."
Ashley smiles. "Got anymore of......that stuff?"
"Oh yeah. I always come prepared," Alex says.
Meanwhile....
James stands looking out a window at the cottage, deep in thought, when Debra Lynn walks into the room. She stands in the doorway watching him for a moment, then walks over to him. "James?" She says. He turns his head and looks at his wife, then returns his gaze out the window. "This sure is a beautiful place, isn't it?" "The cottage, or Southfork?" Debra Lynn asks. |
"You tossed and turned most of the night. Then, I felt you get out of bed at about four this morning."
James sighs. "I couldn't sleep, so I got up and went out for a walk."
"For a while."
Debra Lynn sighs in frustration.
"Honey, look," James says. "I know how you feel about this. But I wanna fight John Ross on this. I know that Justin plans to appeal the judge's decision, and Bobby's all for it. I wanna help. Debra Lynn, that stock that J.R. left me in his will is part of our childrens' heritage. It's the only thing I would have and they would have from my father. I don't wanna just let that go without a fight."
"Hasn't there been enough fighting, and hurting?" Debra Lynn asks. "Look what happened in court during that hearing. A lot of people were hurt. Myself included."
"You're not gonna be hurt again, Debra Lynn. I promise. Honey there are NO more secrets between us. This is something I feel I have to do. For Jimmy and for Ashley. They deserve some kind of heritage that their grandfather wanted to leave to this family. It's not about the money, it's about what our children deserve."
"And of course, about getting the best of John Ross."
"My little brother is a jerk," says James. "He's been on his high horse for too long and it's time somebody knocks him off. Besides, what is there really for us to go back east for? We moved back there to be close to your parents, but they're gone now. And Jimmy is livin' here now. It'd be nice to be near our son."
"What about Ashley's school? Her friends?"
"They have some nice schools here, Debra Lynn. And our daughter has never had any problem making friends. We can all be together right here."
"Oh, sure. We can all be together. Right here in the midst of all the drama that comes with your family." Debra Lynn turns and walks away from James. He sighs deeply in frustration.
The bunkhouse....
"Oh, well, Miss Emma," he says with a smile. "You're about the last person I expected to run into here."
"I wanted to talk to you," Emma says. "Do you have a minute?"
"Always got time for a perty girl," Justin says. "What's up?"
"No kiddin'," says Justin. "Tell me somethin' I DON'T know."
"I know how much you wanna get back at him, and I think I can help. Or at least I know someone who might can help you."
"Who?"
Emma pulls a piece of paper out of her coat pocket and hands it to him. He takes the paper and looks at it, then looks at Emma.
"Why're you doin' this?" He asks.
"Because someone needs to take John Ross down a few notches," Emma replies.
Justin looks at her and smiles.
Later....
"Because you despise John Ross about as much as I do."
"What's in this for me if I do help you?"
"Satisfaction of knowin' you were responsible for bringin' John Ross down."
Harris laughs. "You gotta do better'n that, son."
"Okay, then, how 'bout this.......you help me find somethin' I can use on my brother as leverage, and I won't send you and your mama to prison for runnin' Dallas's most prominent whore house, which, is still very much against the law in the state of Texas. So.....we got a deal, Mr. Ryland?" Justin extends his hand to the older man.
Harris is silent for a moment as he looks at Justin, then at his extended hand. Finally, Harris shakes Justin's hand to seal their deal and form Dallas's newest unholy alliance.....