EPISODE 178 - The Desperate Hours, Part 1

son's head with the statuette.  Austin falls to the floor, his head bleeding.  "AUSTIN, NOOO!!!"  Katherine screams, kneeling beside her son as the doorbell rings again.

 

"POLICE!  OPEN UP!"  Comes a man's voice on the other side of the door.  Bobby walks to the door and opens it.  Two uniformed police officers rush in, weapons drawn.  "FREEZE!"  One of them yells at Katherine, holding his gun on her.

 

"Austin, please wake up!"  Katherine pleads, gently shaking her unconscious son.   "NOOO!"  She yells as one of the officers grabs her and forces her against the wall.  Another officer draws his gun on a frightened William.  

 

Bobby's friend, Dallas Police Lt. Steve Walden enters the apartment with two other men in suits.  "You okay, Bobby?"  Steve asks.

 

"Oh, I'm fine, Steve,"  Bobby replies, looking at Katherine.  "Better than I've been in a LONG time."

 

"This guy's hurt pretty bad,"  one of the officers says, examining Austin.

 

Steve Walden walks over to Katherine and looks at her.  "Well, well, Ms. Wentworth.  We've been after you for quite some time."

 

"Let me GO!"  Katherine yells, struggling against the grip of the officer who is handcuffing her.  "Damn you, LET ME GO!  My son is injured!"

 

"Katherine Wentworth, you are under arrest for the murders of Renaldo Marchetta and Veronica Robinson, and for the attempted murder of Ann Ewing,"  Lt. Walden says to her.  "You have the right to remain silent.  Anything you say can and will be used against you in a court of law.  You have the right to an attorney.  If you cannot afford one, and attorney will be provided for you."

 

"I KNOW MY RIGHTS!"  Says an angry Katherine.  

 

"Ms. Wentworth, where is Jeremy Wendell?"  Walden asks.

 

"Mr. Wendell is not here,"  William replies.

 

"Where is he?"  Another officer asks.

 

"Away,"  William nervously says.  

 

"Search this apartment," Walden says.  "Tear the place apart if you have to, until you find something.  And get her out of here."

 

"I'm not going ANYWHERE!  MY SON IS INJURED!"

 

"Your son will be well taken care of, Ms. Wentworth,"  Steve Walden says.  "Take her away."

 

"Let's go,"  says one of the officers who has hold of Katherine's arm.  He begins to lead her out of the apartment, but Katherine stops and looks Bobby.

 

"This isn't over,"  she says.  "You think you've won?"

 

"Oh, Katherine, I KNOW I have,"  says Bobby.  "I finally got you.  After more than thirty years you're finally gonna pay for the murders of Naldo Marchetta and Veronica Robinson, and for framing Jenna for Naldo's death.  Not to mention what you did to Ann last year."

 

"If anything happens to Austin because of this, I swear, I'll get you, Bobby.  I'll come after you and I'll get you and your WHOLE DAMNED FAMILY!!"

 

"Get her the hell out of here!"  Lt. Walden orders.

 

"Alright, let's go,"  one of the officers says, forcing Katherine out of the apartment.  

 

"We got her, Bobby,"  Steve says.  "After all these years, we FINALLY got her.  And Katherine Wentworth is going to spend the rest of her life where she belongs......behind bars."

 

"I hope you're right, Steve,"  Bobby says, a worried look on his face. After all his years of dealing with Katherine, Bobby won't rest easy until this dangerous woman is put away for good, so that she will never be able to hurt anyone in his family again.

 Alex's 2018 Ford Escape travels down the LBJ Highway in Dallas early in the evening, as Brian Manning is holding Alex and Bridget hostage, forcing Alex to drive at gunpoint.

 

"What are you gonna do with us?"  Asks a frightened Bridget.

 

"Nothing, as long as you two cooperate and we don't run into any cops,"  Brian says.

 

"Look, where are we going?"  Alex asks.

 

"Don't worry about where we're going, kid,"  Brian says.  "You just keep driving until I tell you to stop.  Until we're well OUT of Dallas."

 

"You know you're not gonna get away with this, Manning," Alex says.  "The cops, they have APBs or whatever out for you all over the state.  And when my father finds out that we're with you......"

 

"Your father?"  Brian asks with a laugh.  "You really think I'm afraid of your father, kid?"

 

"You should be,"  says Bridget.  "Alex's family is very rich, and very powerful."

 

"Money and power doesn't scare me, sweetheart.  But, maybe that little piece of information could come in handy.  Especially if your old man would be willing to pay for the safe return of his kid."

 

"Just.......just let us go,"  Alex says.  "I promise, we won't say anything to anyone about this."

 

Brian laughs.  "You must think I have 'stupid' written across my forehead.  Just shut up, and drive, or I shoot your girlfriend.  Understand, sport?"

 

Alex and Bridget exchange worried looks.  

 

Looking down on the backseat beside him, Brian notices a printed program from the funeral of James Beaumont.  Curious, he picks it up and looks at it.  "Hey, this guy on this funeral thing.......James Beaumont.  Where'd you get this?"

 

"Where do you THINK?"  Alex asks.  "From a funeral we just went to."

 

"So.....you knew this James Beaumont?"

 

"You mean the  guy your sister murdered?  Yeah, we knew him.  He was my uncle."

 

"You're.......you're UNCLE?"  Brian asks.  "You, ummm, you said your father was very rich and powerful.  So who is he?"

 

"John Ross Ewing,"  replies Alex.

 

"What?  John Ross EWING?"  Brian asks with a smile.  "You've gotta be kidding.  You're John Ross Ewing's son?"

 

"That's right."

 

Brian laughs.  "Oh my God.  Well, looks like I REALLY hit pay dirt.  John Ross Ewing's kid.  Wow.  I'll bet the two of you would be worth one hell of a lot of money........and a plane to get me the hell OUT of the country to a place with no extradition agreement with the United States.  Damn, looks like my luck is about to finally change for the better."

 

Alex and Bridget again exchange worried looks, Alex angry with himself for telling Brian that John Ross is his father, realizing that by doing so, he'd inadvertently placed himself and Bridget in even more danger than they already were.

Southfork....

 

 

While some of the rest of the family gathers in the living room, John Ross walks into the den and takes his cell phone from his pocket.  He dials Alex's number and waits for an answer.  The phone rings several time, then goes to voicemail.  John Ross impatiently waits for the beep.  "Alex, it's me again.  I'm real worried about you, so I wish you'd give me a call and let me know where you are, and that you're alright.  I know you're still mad as hell at me, but that's no reason to ignore my calls and make me worry like this.  So, just give me a call soon as you get this."

 

Krystina walks into the room just as John Ross puts his phone away.  "Alex still isn't answering his phone?"

 

"No.  Rings several times, then voicemail picks up.  I don't know whether that boy's ignorin' me or whether somethin's happened."

 

"You know how upset he was the other night, John Ross,"  Krystina says.  "He's probably just ignoring your calls to make you stew."

 

"I hope that's all,"  John Ross says.  "I just can't help but worry."

 

Meanwhile, in the living room, Christopher is standing alone in front of one of the French doors leading onto the back porch, looking out at nothing, Courtney and Jacob on his mind.  Krystina walks into the room.  

 

"Christopher?"  Krystina says.  "Are you alright?"

 

"No, I'm not,"  Christopher replies, continuing to stare out the glass of the French door. 

 

"You wanna talk about it?"

 

"Nothing to talk about.  Courtney's gone."

 

"What?"  Krystina asks.  "Well, what do you mean, she's gone?"

 

"She's gone.  She took Jacob and left Southfork,"  replies Christopher.  "Said she needed some time away from me and away from here."

 

"Oh, Christopher, I'm so sorry,"  Krystina says as Lucy rushes into the room.  

 

"Christopher,"  Lucy says, picking up the remote control for the TV.  "There's a special news report on TV you're gonna wanna see."  Lucy switches on the television as Christopher and Krystina look on, and John Ross walks into the living room.  The four listen to the news anchor:

 

"Earlier this evening, police in Dallas arrested fugitive Katherine Wentworth Channing.   Channing was wanted by the police for last year's attempted murder of Ann Ryland Ewing, and for the murders of Renaldo Marchetta and Veronica Robinson more than thirty years ago.  Ann Ewing's husband, Dallas oil man Bobby James Ewing, president of Ewing Oil, apparently discovered that Mrs. Channing, Mr. Ewing's former sister-in-law, had been living in the penthouse apartment of  prominent Dallas resident Jeremy Wendell and alerted authorities.  Police arrived at Wendell's home, located in the Chase Tower downtown, and arrested Katherine Channing and her son, Austin Wentworth, former CEO of Wentworth Industries.  Austin Wentworth, who was injured in a scuffle between his mother and Bobby Ewing before police arrived on the scene, was taken to Texas Health Presbyterian Hospital, where he was placed in custody.  Our station, KDAL, has learned that Katherine Wentworth Channing had been wanted for a number of crimes dating all the way back to the 1984 shooting of her former brother-in-law, Bobby Ewing, as well as conspiracy in the murders of Renaldo Marchetta in December, 1984, and Veronica Robinson on April 12, 1985.  A warrant has been issued for the arrest of Jeremy Wendell on a charge of aiding and abetting a fugitive...."

 

Christopher and John Ross and Lucy exchange looks.  "My God,"  Christopher says.  "That must have been why my Dad rushed out of the funeral home so fast this afternoon."

 

"But how the hell did Uncle Bobby know that Katherine Wentworth was at Wendell's apartment?"  John Ross asks.

 

"I have no idea."

 

"Bobby must be so relieved,"  says Lucy.  "After all these years, they finally got Katherine Wentworth."

Meanwhile....Cliff and Afton's apartment....

 

Meanwhile, sitting in the living room of their apartment, Cliff and Afton are also watching the news, with the report of Katherine's arrest:  "Police arrived at Wendell's home, located in the Chase Tower downtown, and arrested Katherine Channing and her son, Austin Wentworth, former CEO of Wentworth Industries.  Austin Wentworth, who was injured in a scuffle between his mother and Bobby Ewing before police arrived on the scene, was taken to Texas Health Presbyterian Hospital, where he was placed in custody.  Our station, KDAL, has learned that Katherine Wentworth Channing had been wanted for a number of crimes dating all the way back to the 1984 shooting of her former brother-in-law, Bobby Ewing, as well as conspiracy in the murders of Renaldo Marchetta in December, 1984, and Veronica Robinson on April 12, 1985.  A warrant has been issued for the arrest of Jeremy Wendell on a charge of aiding and abetting a fugitive...."

 

"Wow,"  Cliff says, turning down the volume on the TV.  "Can ya BELIEVE that?  Jeremy Wendell was hiding Katherine in his apartment this whole time?"

 

"I can't say I'm really surprised,"  says Afton.  "Jeremy Wendell is one of the biggest creeps I've ever met, and helping someone like Katherine seems very much in character."

 

"I agree.  Well, thank God they finally caught that lunatic sister of mine.  Hopefully now, Katherine will be put away for the rest of her life so she can't harm anyone else."

 

"I wonder if Pamela has heard,"  Afton says.  

 

"I dunno.  But I think I'll give her a call and see."

 

"Cliff, look,"  Afton says, pointing to the TV, a photo of Justin on the screen.  "Turn that up."

 

Cliff quickly grabs the remote and turns up the volume on the set, and he and Afton listen to a news report about Justin's arrest:  "To recap our other top story, an arrest has been made in the murder of Westar Oil CEO Tripp McKay.  Earlier this afternoon, Justin Randall Ewing, son of the late Dallas oil man J.R. Ewing, was arrested and charged with the murder of McKay after police interviewed several witnesses who heard Ewing threaten McKay the day of the murder.  Following numerous leads, police discovered other evidence linking Ewing to the crime."

 

"Oh my God,"  Afton says.  "I don't believe this.  Justin, arrested for Tripp's murder?"

 

"Yeah, well, I guess that case is closed now, then,"  Cliff says, a tone of relief in his voice.

 

"Poor Pamela.  I have to call her.  She must be devastated."

 

"Why?"  Cliff asks.  "Why should Pamela be devastated that Justin Ewing was arrested for killing Tripp?  Ewing had broken up with her.  He broke her heart very badly."

 

"That doesn't mean she stopped caring about him,"  Afton says, picking up her cell phone from the coffee table.

Dallas Police Department....

 

An officer leads Justin down a long hallway at the Dallas Police Department that evening and into a visiting room, where he finds Pamela and Jay waiting for him.  

 

"Justin, are you alright?"  Pamela asks.

 

"I've been better.  Jay, thanks for comin'."

 

"Justin. I got here just as soon as I got Jill's messages," Jay says.  

 

"Any chance I can get out of here?"

 

"I'm working on it, but, unfortunately, this being the weekend, Monday morning is the earliest you can be arraigned and bail set."

 

"What?"  Justin asks.  "Monday?"

 

"You mean that Justin's going to have to spend the next two nights in jail?"  Pamela asks.

 

"I'm afraid so.  Being the weekend, there's nothing we can do.  Justin, I need to talk to you, privately."

 

"Jay, anything you have to say to me, you can  say it in front of Pamela."

 

"No, Justin, it's fine,"  Pamela says.  "I just wanted to see you, so I asked Jay if I could in with him.  But I'll go and let the two of you talk.  Justin, I love you."

 

"I love you, too,"  Justin says.  

 

Pamela stands, kisses Justin, and knocks on the door.  A second later the guard opens the door, and lets her out, then closes the door again.  

 

"Well, I guess you wanna know if I killed McKay, huh?"  Justin asks.

 

"I'd like the truth, Justin.  But, whatever that truth is, I want you to know that I'll still represent you.  Just be totally honest with me, Justin, about everything."

 

Justin sighs.  "Jay, the truth is........I hated Tripp McKay,  And, I even thought about killin' him, or at least hurtin' him real bad.  That guy had caused Pamela so much pain, and look at all the destruction he'd caused the rest of my fam'ly.  But..........I didn't do it, Jay.  As much as I hated McKay, I didn't kill him.  You have to believe that."

 

"I do believe you,"  Jay says.  "So where were you the night McKay was murdered?"

 

Justin looks at the attorney and hesitates before replying to Jay's question.

A highway near Dallas....

 As the sun begins to set over Texas, Alex's car makes its way toward Fort Worth, Brian still holding a gun on Alex, forcing him to drive.  "Dude, where exactly are we going?" Alex asks.  "I mean, we've been riding around for a while, and you haven't told me where we're headed."

 

"Doesn't matter, kid, just shut up and drive."

 

"Look, why don't you let us go?"  Alex asks.  "Just take the car, but let Bridget and me go."

 

"Sorry, man, but no can do,"  Brian says.  "You two kids are gonna be my ticket out of this."

 

"You really think you're ever gonna get out of this?"  Bridget asks.  "You're wanted for murder.  Now you're just adding kidnapping to your charges."

 

"Like I have anything else to lose at this point.  I don't.  If I'm caught, my life is over.  But with you two as my hostages, I just might have a way out of this.  That is, IF your folks give a damn about either of you."

 

"What is it you want?"  Alex asks.

 

"Your father, John Ross Ewing, he's worth a hell of a lot of money.  Well, we're gonna see how much his kid's life means to him.  In exchange for money, and I mean LOTS of it, and a private plane out of the country, I'll let the  two of you go."

 

"Where do you think you're gonna go?"  Bridget asks.  

 

"Some place where there's no extradition agreement with the U.S.  I was headed there a year ago, when my brother's plane crashed and I got held up.  But this time, nothing's gonna go wrong.  And if he ever wants to see his son alive again, John Ross Ewing had better see to that.  Take this next exit up ahead.  You're gonna make a phone call to your Daddy."

 

Alex and Bridget look at each other, both teens afraid for their lives in the hands of this killer.

Southfork....

 As John Ross and Krystina are coming down the stairs at Southfork, John Ross's cell phone rings.  Taking his phone from his pocket he looks at the screen.  "It's Alex,"  he tells Krystina, then quickly answers the call.  "Alex, where the hell are you?  I been worried sick.  Been tryin' to call you since the funeral."

Meanwhile....

"John Ross,"  Alex says, before Brian quickly takes the phone from the boy's hand.  

 

"Well, hello,"  Brian says.  

Southfork....

Not recognizing the voice on the other end of the line, a puzzled look comes over John Ross's face.  "Alex?  Hey, who the hell is this?"

Meanwhile....

"It's Brian Manning.  And I have your kid and his girlfriend,"  Brian says.  "I'm sure you've heard of me."

Southfork....

 "Manning?"  A stunned John Ross asks.   "What the hell are you doin' with my son?"

 

"Oh, just hangin' out, spending some quality time together,"  Brian replies sarcastically.

 

"Manning, I swear if you hurt those kids, I'll...."

 

"Just keep your shirt on, Ewing, the kids are fine.  For now, anyway."

 

"What the hell do you want?"  John Ross asks.

 "What do I want?"  Brian asks.  "Now those are words I like to hear.  What I want is your full cooperation, if you ever wanna see your kid and his girl alive again.  I want two things from you.........money, and LOTS of it, and a way to get out of this country safely.  And seeing as how you're about as rich as they come, I know you can deliver both. And you WILL.......or your son will be mailed home to you in several body bags."

Southfork....

"Okay, what the hell do you want?"  John Ross asks.

 

"I'll be in touch, with instructions, and a time and place," says Brian.  "And Ewing..........you contact the cops, or ANYONE about this........any police involvement at all.........and I promise, you'll watch your son die.  I'll call later."

 

"Wait a minute.  Now let me give you a warnin'.  Anything happens to my son or that girl, and you'll end up hopin' you go to prison and get the death penalty because there's not a place anywhere on this Earth you can hide that I won't you and kill you myself."

 

"You're not in any position to make threats, Ewing.  Remember what I said....NO cops.  I'll be in touch."

 

"Let me talk to Alex again,"  John Ross says, but he hears a 'click.'  Brian has ended the call.  "Damn."

 

"John Ross, what's going on?"  Krystina asks, worried.  

 

"Brian Manning.  Katherine Wentworth's psychotic son has Alex and Bridget."

 

"Oh my God.  We have to call the police."

 

"NO!  Manning said if there's any police involvement, he'll kill Alex.  I can't any chances.  I WON'T take any chances with my son's life."

 

"John Ross, this man is a cold blooded KILLER,"  Krystina says.  "You have to get some help with this.  At least call Bum."

 

"Dear Lord in Heaven, Krystina,"  John Ross says, his voice shaky and his bottom lip trembling.  "That maniac has my son.  If he hurts Alex, I swear.........."

 

Krystina puts her arms around her husband and embraces him as John Ross fights to hold back tears.

Texas Health Presbyterian Hospital....

 Austin is sitting up in his bed at Texas Health Presbyterian that evening, his wrist handcuffed to the bed, and a police guard stationed at his door.   He looks down at the handcuffs and lets out a deep sigh.  A nurse walks into the room.  

 

"How's that head of yours feeling, Mr. Wentworth?"  She asks.

 

"Hurts a little."

 

"Well, in another half hour or so, I can get you something for pain."

 

"Thank you."

 

"I'll check on you soon,"  the nurse says.  As she turns to walk out of the room, attorney Drew Demarest walks in.  The nurse and Drew exchange friendly smiles, then she leaves the room.  

 

"Austin,"  Drew says.  

 

"Thanks for coming, Drew."

 

"It's nice to see you didn't suffer any serious injuries from that blow you received to the head earlier.  How do you feel?"

 

"My head hurts some,"  Austin replies.  "Drew, what kind of trouble am I in?  What's gonna happen to me?"

 

Drew walks over to Austin's bedside and looks at him..  "That all depends."

 

"On what?"

 

"On how long you've known your mother was in Dallas and staying at Jeremy Wendell's penthouse.  And how deeply you were involved in helping her."

 

Austin sighs.  "I only found out recently that my mother was here.  And I was NOT helping her."

 

"Well, the law may see it differently since you knew your mother was in town, and didn't turn her in immediately."

 

"How could I?  She's my mother,"  Austin says.  "Drew, be honest with me.  Am I gonna go to jail or prison for not turning my mother in?"

 

"Austin, I'm gonna do all I can to help you," the attorney replies.  "But, you've gotta tell me everything, and I do mean EVERYTHING.  How  long you knew Katherine Wentworth was in Dallas, what you knew about any plans she may have had.  Any help you may have given her.  I'm gonna also need to know what you knew about your sister, Katelyn Spencer, and your brother, Brian Manning.  I'm sure you know that Katelyn Spencer has been charged with the murder of James Beaumont."

 

"Yes, I know that, but Drew, I SWEAR........I knew nothing at all about either Katelyn or Brian.  My mother didn't even know either of them were anywhere near Dallas."

 

"She told you that?"  Drew asks.

 

"Yes."

 

"And you believe her?"

 

"Why would she lie to me about that?"  Austin asks.  

 

"I don't know,"  replies Drew.  

 

"So what happens to me now?  The doctor said I could get out of the hospital tomorrow.  What happens then?  I leave here and go to jail?"

 

"I'm afraid so.  At least until we can get you a bail hearing, which will likely be first thing Monday morning."

 

"Monday?  You mean I have to spend tomorrow night in jail?"

 

"Austin, it's the weekend, and, we aren't gonna be able to get a bail hearing until Monday, but I promise, I'll get you one just as early as I possibly can."

 

Tears begin streaming down the young man's face.  "Drew, I'm scared.  I mean I'm REALLY scared.  When is this nightmare ever gonna end for me?  A year ago I was kidnapped by my brother.  Endured a plane crash and then being held prisoner for several months on that farm.  I finally get back home to find that my brother has taken over my company, and now this happens.  You know, I always heard that the sins of the fathers are visited upon their sons.  I never believed that until now.  I'm paying for things that I never did.  Things that my screwed up family has done.  That's not fair.  What did I ever do to deserve everything that's happened to me?"

 

Drew looks at the young man with pity.  After a brief pause, he places a hand on Austin's shoulder.  "Nothing, Austin," he says.  "I don't believe that you did anything to deserve all this.  I also don't believe you were helping your mother.  You simply had the misfortune of being born Katherine Wentworth's son.  Look, I'll speak to your doctor.  See what I can do about maybe getting you another night in the hospital.  Then, hopefully, you can go to your bail hearing from here, and, home from there if the judge sets bail."

 

"Drew, thank you."

 

"You try and get some rest,"  Drew says.  "And as hard as it is, try not to worry.  I'll talk to you sometime tomorrow."

 

"Thanks again,"  Austin says.  Drew smiles at him, then turns and leaves the room.  After his attorney is gone, Austin lays back in bed and again looks at the handcuff around his wrist.  "I had the misfortune of being born Katherine Wentworth's son," he says in a soft, sad tone.  He shakes his head and begins to cry.

Southfork....

 As Bobby walks into the foyer that night, Heather is coming down the stairs at Southfork.  Bobby notices his daughter-in-law has a worried look on her face.  "Heather, is somethin' wrong?"  He asks.

 

Heather sighs.  "I've been callin' Lucas's phone for the last three hours, and I get no answer.  It just goes straight to voicemail.  I've left him several messages and texts, but he hasn't responded to any of them."

 

"You think somethin's wrong?"  Bobby asks.

 

"I really don't know.  I sure hope not, but I know Lucas's temper, and with him goin' to Falcon Crest to confront Emma about her lyin' about Logan's paternity, anything could've happened."

 

"I really don't think my son would do anything foolish.  Maybe his phone is just dead.  Try not to worry,"  Bobby says as John Ross comes into the foyer.  

 

"Uncle Bobby, I'm glad you're here,"  John Ross says.

 

"I got your message, John Ross.  Sounded serious.  What's going on?"

 

"Let's talk in the den.  Heather, excuse us?"

 

"Yeah, of course,"  Heather says.  "I'm gonna go up to my room and keep tryin' to reach Lucas."

 

"Alright, let me know if you talk to him,"  says Bobby.

 

"I will,"  Heather says, going up the stairs.  

 

Bobby follows John Ross into the den, where Krystina and  Bum are waiting.  "Bum, what in the world are you doin' here this time of night?"

 

"John Ross called and asked me to come over,"  replies Bum.

 "Uncle Bobby, we got a real problem,"  John Ross says.  "Brian Manning called me earlier."

 

"Manning?  Katherine's son?"

 

"Yeah.  He's got Alex and Bridget."

 

"No,"  Bobby says, stunned at the news.  "How?"

 

"I don't know how.  Point is, that maniac has my son and Bridget, and he said that if I involved the police and if I didn't do exactly like he said........he'd kill Alex."

 

"What is it he wants?"  Bobby asks.

 

"Money,"  replies John Ross.  "Lots of money.  And a way to get safely out of the  country."

 

"John Ross, tell me you're not thinking of going along with Manning's demands."

 

"What choice do I have, Uncle Bobby?  That maniac has my son."

 

"We have to come up with some other way."

 

"Bobby's right,"  says Krystina.  "John Ross, you CANNOT give Manning what he wants.  The guy's a cold blooded killer."

 

"Which is why I HAVE to give him what he wants!"  John Ross angrily says.  "The man has my son.  If I don't give do everything he says, he will kill Alex, and I'll be damned if I let that happen."

 

"John Ross, Brian Manning is a psychopath.  You give in to him, there's no guarantee that he'll let Alex and Bridget go, or you either, for that matter."

 

"That's why I asked Bum here,"  John Ross says.  "Whenever Manning contacts me again to set up a time and a place to meet, Bum can tail me and make sure nothin' happens."

 

"Bum, would you please tell John Ross that this is a big mistake?"  Bobby says.

 

"Bobby, I've handled situations like this before.  I'll follow John Ross, stay out of sight, and, with any luck, once there's an exchange.....the money for the kids.......hopefully we can get Manning."

 

"John Ross, I'm scared,"  Krystina says.  "I have a really bad feeling about this."

 

"Darlin', I'm scared, too.  I'm scared for my son."

 

"John Ross, have you let Donna Love know what's happening?"  Bobby asks.

 

"No, I hadn't.  Had so much on my mind I hadn't even thought about that."

 

"She needs to know what's going on.  I'll give her a call."

 

"Thank you, Bobby,"  Krystina says.  

 

"John Ross, please, think about this,"  says Bobby.  "Manning is dangerous."

 

"I know that.  And that's why I can't get the cops involved.  I'm not gonna take a chance with my son's life."

 

Bobby places his hand on John Ross's shoulder as he looks at his nephew with concern.

Meanwhile....a motel in Fort Worth....

 Brian Manning pulls back the curtain and peeks out the window of a room at the Starlite Motel in Fort Worth.  He then turns and looks at a terrified Alex and Bridget, who are sitting on one of the beds in the room.  Holding his gun on the two frightened teens, Brian smiles.   "Well, we should be safe enough here for the night.   In a couple of hours, I'll call John Ross Ewing back and arrange a time and a place for him to bring the money in the morning."

 

"Why in a couple of hours?"  Bridget asks.  "Why not now?"

 

"I figure I'll let Ewing stew for a while.  In the meantime, you two just sit back and relax."

 

"Kinda hard to relax with that gun pointed at us,"  says Alex.

 

"Well, sorry to break it to ya, Junior, but, you're just gonna have to get use to this gun.  At least until I get my money and safe passage out of this country,"  Brian says.  

 

"You really  gonna let us go when John Ross gives you that money?"  Alex asks.  

 

Brian looks at him and smiles.  "I guess you're just gonna have to wait and find out,"  he replies, ominously.

 

Alex and Bridget exchange worried looks as Alex reaches over and takes the girl by the hand.

Southfork....early morning....

 "This is ridiculous, just sitting around here like this when that madman could be doing, God only knows what, to those kids,"  Donna Love says as she paces anxiously around the living room at Southfork as dawn begins to break early the next morning.  

 

"Donna, we really don't have a choice right now,"  says Krystina.  "Not until Manning decides to contact John Ross with instructions on where to drop that ransom money."

 

"This whole thing is absurd,"  Donna says, looking at John Ross.  "You should have contacted the police right away, as soon as that murderer phoned you!"

 

"Manning made it clear that he would kill my son and Bridget if I did that,"  John Ross says.  

 

"God, I can't believe this is happening,"  Donna says.  "This wouldn't even BE happening if my granddaughter hadn't been with YOUR son!"

 

"What the hell is that supposed to mean?"  Asks an angry John Ross.  

 

"Ever since my granddaughter became involved with Alex, we've had two tragedies.  First that accident last New Year's Eve, and now THIS!"

 

"Neither that accident nor this kidnappin' were my son's fault, lady!"

 

"Well, it seems to me that trouble just kind of follows your family around, waiting to strike."

 

"This, comin' from a woman who's own damned brother is a cold blooded killer."

 

"How DARE you!"

 

"Now, just stop it, BOTH of you!"  Krystina says, interrupting the spat.  "All this bickering isn't helping anyone, least of all Alex and Bridget."

 

John Ross gives Donna and angry look, then walks to the bar and pours himself a drink.

 

"You're absolutely right, this isn't helping anything,"  Donna says.  "I'm just so worried about my granddaughter."

 

"I know,"  says Krystina.  "But we just have to believe that those two kids will be alright. We have to."

 

Bobby and Bum walk into the room.  "John Ross, I just got off the phone with Lee Phillips."

 

"And?"  John Ross asks. 

 

"He'll have the money waiting for you."

 

"And you didn't tell him anything about Manning or why we need that much money, did you?"

 

"No, of course I didn't,"  Bobby says.

 

As John Ross is about to say something, his cell phone rings.  He quickly takes his phone from his pocket and looks at the screen.  "It's Alex's number,"  he says.  He quickly answers the call.  "Manning?"

Fort Worth....

Brian smiles.  "Well, now, John Ross, I guess that's just something you're gonna have to trust me on."

 

"Trust you?"  John Ross asks.  "That's about like trustin' a fox to guard a hen house."  

 

"Maybe so.  But you don't have a choice.  You either trust me, or you never see your son and his cute little girlfriend again."

 

"Alright.  Where do you wanna meet?"

 

"Are you familiar with Fort Worth?"  Brian asks.

 

"Yeah, a little bit."

 

"Good.  There's an old abandoned building that looks like an old warehouse at 4720 Jefferson Avenue, out in the country, away from the city.  I'm sure your GPS can take you right there.  Meet me there at 11 a.m.  We'll make the trade.  I let the kids go, in exchange for the money, and you."

 

"Me?  What the hell are you talkin' about?"  John Ross asks.

 

Brian smiles.  "Come on, John Ross.  You're a smart guy.  I let those kids go, and you come with me.  You take me to the airport, where a plane will be waiting to take the two of us safely out of Texas.  You should know that I'm gonna have to have a  hostage in order to guarantee my safe passage.  Once we get to Morocco, if all goes well.......then I'll let you go, and you can just catch a flight back to Dallas.  I'm holding up my end of the bargain.  I said I'd let your son and the girl go, in exchange for what I asked for.  But I can't leave here alone.  So you're coming with me.  Do we have a deal?"

Southfork....

 John Ross remains silent for a few seconds as he thinks about what Brian has just said.

 

"John Ross?  Do we have a deal or not?"  Brian asks.

 

"Yes, okay, fine.  We have a deal.  But Manning, I'm warnin' you.  If you hurt my son or Bridget.........I swear, I'll kill you."

 

"Alright, then.  11 o'clock, at the address I gave you.  And John Ross, one more thing.........if anything, and I mean ANYTHING goes wrong..........if there's any police involvement, or if I even sense that you haven't followed my directions to a T, and you haven't come alone.......I promise, you'll watch your son die with a bullet in his brain, and then I'll kill you.  11 o'clock, and again, don't be late."  Brian hangs up.

 

"John Ross, what did he say?"  Krystina asks after John Ross puts his cell phone down.   

 

"I'm to meet him at 11 this mornin' in Fort Worth, with two million dollars."

 

"And, when you meet him, he'll let the kids go?"  Donna Love asks.

 

"That's what he says."

 

"John Ross, something doesn't make sense,"  Krystina says.  "If Manning let's Alex and Bridget go, he has to know that, once the kids are safe, you'll call the police."

 

"He wouldn't have a chance of gettin' out of town, much less out of the country,"  says Bobby.  "Not unless......"

 

"Unless what?"  Krystina asks.

 

"Unless he has a hostage,"  replies Bobby.  "Itn't that right, John Ross?"

 

Remaining silent, John Ross looks at his uncle, and at his wife, then turns away from them and takes a sip of his drink.  

 

Krystina's mouth drops open.  She walks over to her husband.  "Oh my God, John Ross,"  she says.  "Manning wants to let Alex and Bridget go, in exchange for you?"

 

John Ross looks at his wife.  "Darlin'......"

 

"Just answer me, John Ross,"  Krystina says.  "Is that what Manning wants?  The kids, in exchange for you?"

 

"Yeah.  That's pretty much it."

 

"Oh my God.  John Ross, you can't do this.  We have to call the police!"

 

"Krystina, we can't do that.  Don't you understand?  Manning said that if there's any police involvement, or if he even suspects somethin's wrong when I meet him for the exchange, he'll kill Alex and Bridget.  I have to do everything exactly like he says.  I won't take a chance with the lives of those two kids."

 

"But the police handle this kind of thing all the time,"  Krystina says.  "They know how to deal with a hostage situations.  Bobby, please, tell him!"

 

"John Ross is right, Krystina,"  Bobby says.  "Manning wouldn't think twice about killing Alex and Bridget if John Ross doesn't do exactly as he says."

 

"And you really think a man like this Brian Manning can be trusted to hold up his end of this?"  Donna Love asks.  "He's a killer.  What makes you think that he'll let my granddaughter and Alex go if John Ross delivers that money and agrees to take the kids' place as his hostage?"

 

"Donna's right, we can't trust him,"  Krystina says in tears.

 

"We don't have a choice,"  says John Ross.  

 

"Krystina, I'll be nearby keepin' an eye on John Ross,"  Bum says.

 

"And I'm coming with you,"  says Bobby.  

 

"No, I have to go alone,"  John Ross says.  

 

"Look John Ross, there's no way in hell I'm gonna let you go in there alone."

 

"We'll hang back, John Ross,"  says Bum.  "Manning will never know we're anywhere around."

 

Krystina embraces her husband.  "John Ross, please don't do this.  Please.  You have to think of me, and Ellie, and Little John."

 

"Darlin', I AM thinkin' of all of you,"  John Ross says, holding her close.  "I'm also thinkin' of Alex.  He's my son, and I am NOT gonna let anything happen to him."

The Fairview Hotel, Dallas....later....

 Courtney is standing at the window of her mother's suite at the Fairview Hotel in Dallas that morning, looking out, when Phyllis walks into the living room.  Phyllis pauses and looks at her daughter, Courtney not noticing that her mother has walked in as she continues to stare out the window.  "Good morning,"  Phyllis finally says.

 

"Morning, Mom,"  Courtney says in a sad tone.

 

"You didn't sleep much last night, did you?"

 

"I didn't sleep at all.  I've been here at this window since before dawn.  I watched the sun come up."

 

Phyllis smiles.  "You use to love doing that when you were little.   By the way, Jacob is still sound asleep.  My grandson is such a joy to have around.  Should I wake him and order us up some breakfast?"

 

"No, let him sleep,"  Courtney says.  "This whole thing has upset him so much."

 

"I know,"  says Phyllis.  "It's upset all of us.  But Courtney, sweetheart, moving away from Southfork and Christopher?  Are you sure that was the right thing to do, especially now when the two of you need each other more than ever?"

 

"Mom, I don't know what the right thing is anymore,"  Courtney says.  "Only thing I DO know is, I couldn't stay at Southfork anymore.  At least not right now.  I needed some time to think.  To get my head together and decide what I wanna do."

 

"You mean about your marriage?"  

 

"Yes, about my marriage."

 

"Sweetheart, I'm not trying to tell you what to do, but, I have to say, I think it's wrong for you to blame Christopher for the miscarriage.  He's hurting, too."

 

"Don't you think I know that, Mom?"  Courtney asks.  "I just..........I can't get past the fact that if Christopher hadn't told Chase about who Jacob's real father is, none of this would've happened."

 

"No, but you very well may have had to either share custody of give up custody of your child to a man who isn't his biological father,"  Phyllis says.  

 

"I know.  Huge mess I created for myself and everyone else.  Especially Jacob."

 

As Phyllis is about to say something, a knock comes at the door.  Phyllis looks at her watch.  "It's 9 in the morning.  Who on Earth could that be?"  Walking to the door, Phyllis opens it and finds a tall young man.  An expression of shock comes over her face.  "Oh my Lord," she gasps.

 

"Well, I heard I might find the very lovely Ms. Phyllis Wapner here,"  the young man says.  

 

"Gavin,"  Phyllis says, happily embracing the young man.  "What on Earth are you doing here?"  

 

"Well, after you told me you were gonna be in Dallas for a while, I decided to come and see you."

 

"I'm so happy you did.  Please, come in."

 

The young man walks into the hotel suite, and Phyllis closes the door.  He and Courtney exchange looks, and the young man smiles at her.  "Hello, Courtney," he says.  

 

 

"Gavin,"  Courtney says, her tone and expression betraying that she isn't happy to see the young man.  "I don't believe it.  It's been years.  What are you doing here?"

 

"Now does a guy have to have a reason to come and visit his mother and sister?"  Gavin asks.  

 

As Phyllis smiles, happy to have her son here, Courtney looks at her brother with skepticism, wondering why Gavin would suddenly show up now after so much time had passed since they had last seen him.

 

Later....

"Thanks, Mom,"  Gavin says as Phyllis pours her son a cup of coffee a short time later.  

 

"You're welcome,"  says a smiling Phyllis, taking a seat at the breakfast table with her daughter and son.  "Oh, Gavin, it's so wonderful to have you here.  Courtney, doesn't your brother look wonderful?  Handsome as ever."

 

"Oh, yeah, he does,"  Courtneys says, still showing very little enthusiasm for her brother's arrival.  

 

Gavin looks across the table at her.  "You aren't too happy to see me, are you, sis?"  

 

"It's not that.  I'm just wondering why you're here."

 

"I told you.  I came to see you and Mom."

 

"But why NOW?"  Courtney asks.  "I know that you and Mom talk occasionally, otherwise you wouldn't have known she was even in Dallas.  But we haven't seen you in YEARS.  You didn't even bother to show up last year after Mom had her heart surgery.   And now, out of the blue, here you are."

 

"Courtney, I don't think it matters why your brother is here,"  Phyllis says.  "It's just wonderful that he IS here.  I have my family complete now."  Phyllis reaches over and takes her son's hand, as Gavin and Courtney continue to glare at each other across the table.  

 

At that moment, Jacob comes out of one the bedrooms and walks into the small breakfast area where the adults are sitting.  "Well, hey, sleepy head,"  Courtney says to her son.

 

"Hey,"  the boy says.  

 

"Honey, do you want some breakfast?"  Phyllis asks.

 

"Maybe a waffle."

 

Gavin looks at the young boy.  "Well, who do we have here?"  Gavin asks.

 

"I'm Jacob.  Who are you?"

 

Phyllis smiles.  "Jacob, this is your Uncle, Gavin Kelly, Courtney's brother."

 

"I didn't know you had a brother,"  Jacob says, looking at his mother.

 

"Well, she does,"  says Phyllis.

 

"He's your son?"  Jacob asks Phyllis.  

 

"Yes, that's right."

 

"Mom, you said I'm his.......uncle?"  Asks a confused Gavin.

 

"Yes,"  replies Phyllis.  "Jacob is Courtney's son."

 

Gavin looks at the boy,a puzzled expression on his face.  "Really?  Courtney, I didn't know you had a kid."

 

"Well, if you'd been around, you would've known,"  Courtney says.  

 

"Dad doesn't know, does he?  I mean, he never mentioned that you had a kid."

 

"No reason he should've known either, since he walked out on Mom and I,"  Courtney says, getting up from the table.  

 

Gavin looks at his new found nephew and smiles.  "Well, Jacob, it's really nice to meet you," he says, extending his hand.

 

Jacob shakes his new uncle's hand.  "Yeah, you, too,"  the boy says as Phyllis looks on with a smile, and Courtney looks on with an angry expression, her brother's arrival bringing back some painful memories for her at a time when her life is already in shambles.  

Southfork....

 In the den at Southfork, banker Lee Phillips of the Longhorn Bank places a briefcase on the table and opens it to reveal several stacks of cash.  "There you go, Bobby,"  he says.  "Two million dollars, just the way you ask."

 

"Lee, thanks a lot for this,"  Bobby says.  "I know two million dollars is a lot of cash to come up with on such short notice, especially on a Sunday morning."

 

"Bobby, you know I'm always happy to help the Ewings, but I have to say, this is a lot of money, and, I can't help but be curious as to what you needed all this cash for so quickly,"  Lee says.

 

"That's nothin' for you to worry about, Lee,"  John Ross says.  "Look, we appreciate you bringin' this money all the way out here to Southfork, but, if you'll excuse us now?"

 

Lee looks at John Ross, then at Bobby.  "Yes, of course," he says.  "Well, I'll be on my way, then."

 

"I'll walk ya out, Lee,"  Bobby says.  He and the banker leave the room.  

 

"John Ross, we should leave in a couple minutes.  I'll wait for ya outside,"  Bum says, then turns and walks out.

 

"I'll join you,"  Donna Love says.  She follows Bum out of the room to give John Ross and Krystina a brief few moments alone before John Ross has to leave.  

 

John Ross lets out a deep sigh. 

 

Krystina walks over to her husband.  "John Ross, you can't do this,"  she says.  "Please, I am BEGGING you.  This is suicide."

 

"Krystina, listen to me.  If there was any other way, don't you think I'd take it?"

 

"There has to be SOME other way than for you to go in there and offer yourself as a hostage for Manning in exchange for Alex and Bridget."

 

"Damn it, there IS no other way!"  John Ross says as he turns to face his wife.   "That psycho son of Katherine Wentworth's is a killer, darlin'.  And not only that, he's desperate.  That maniac wouldn't think twice about killin' those two kids."

 

"John Ross, I'm scared to death,"  Krystina says as she begins to cry.  "If anything ever happened to you, I don't know what I'd do."

 

"Darlin', I can take care of myself.  I'll be fine.  Just trust me."

 

"I do trust you.  It's Manning I don't trust."

Meanwhile, Heather comes down the stairs, again attempting to get Lucas on the phone in California.  "Lucas, I'm really startin' to worry about you,"  she says.  "Please call me as soon as possible.  Just let me know you're alright.  Bye."  As Heather puts her phone away, Bobby walks into the foyer.  

 

"Heather, you still haven't been able to reach Lucas?"  He asks.

 

Heather sighs.  "No.  I can't even count how many times I've called and texted him, and I've left at least seven voice messages.   Bobby, I'm really gettin' worried.  Somethin's wrong.  Lucas would've returned my calls by now."

 

"You're right, he would have,"  Bobby agrees, as John Ross and Krystina come in from the den, John Ross carrying the briefcase full of money.  

 

"Uncle Bobby,"  John Ross says.  "Time to go."

 

"Go?  Go where?  What's going on?"  Heather asks.

 

"Heather, I have somethin' I have to take care of,"  Bobby replies.  "But as soon as I get back, we'll try and figure out what's goin' on with Lucas.  Even if I have to make a trip to California to find out what's goin' on myself."

 

"Alright."

 

"John Ross, let's go,"  Bobby says.  "Heather, I should be back in a little while.  In the meantime, keep tryin' to reach Lucas.  His phone may not have service, or it could be some other simple explanation.  I'll see you soon."

 

"Alright, Bobby,"  Heather says as Bobby, Lucas, and Krystina walk out.  Heather looks down at her phone in her hand and fights back tears, worried to death that something was seriously wrong with Lucas.

A moment later, Bobby, John Ross, and Krystina walk out of the house and join a waiting Bum on the patio.  

 

"Alright now, are we clear on what to do?"  Bum asks.

 

"I go meet Brian Manning and  make the exchange,"  replies John Ross.  "The kids, for the money......and me as his hostage."

 

"Bobby and I will follow you to the meeting sight, then hang back when you meet Manning so he doesn't see us,"  Bum continues.  "And you have that tracker in your belt.  Press it to activate it as soon as you get to the meeting place, then, Bobby and I'll be able to track you, wherever you go.  Then when we get to the airport........we'll make our move."

 

"And if this goes as planned, Brian Manning will join his crazy mother and sister behind bars,"  Bobby says.

 

"Oh, it'll go as planned,"  John Ross says.  Bum hands him a small revolver, which he places in his belt.  

 

"John Ross, it's not too late to back out of this,"  Krystina says.  

 

"I can't do that, darlin'."

 

"John Ross..........good luck,"  Donna Love says.  "And please, bring my granddaughter home safely."

 

"Yeah, that's the plan,"  John Ross says, looking at his cell phone.  He lets out a sigh.  "Manning just texted me from Alex's phone to remind me not to be late, and not to try anything funny."

 

"What if Manning gets suspicious?"  Krystina asks.  "John Ross going in there with a tracker?  If he finds that thing......"

 

"Krystina, he WON'T,"  says John Ross.  "Why the hell would the guy check my belt?"

 

"We'd better get going,"  Bobby says.  "Donna, why don't you go on home and wait?  The minute this is all over and the kids are safe, we'll call you."

 

"No,"  Donna says.  "If it's all the same, I'd rather wait here.  I don't want to be alone."

 

"I understand, Donna,"  Krystina says.  "Neither do I.  And since no one else knows about this, I don't have anyone I can share this waiting with."

 

"Alright, but remember,"  Bum says.  "Like you said, no one else knows about this.  You two keep your heads, and don't say anything about this to anyone else.  Understood?"

 

"Understood,"  Donna Love says.

 

"Yes,"  says Krystina.  

 

"Come on, we have to go,"  John Ross says.  

 

Krystina walks up to her husband and kisses him.  "Please, PLEASE be careful.  And please come back to me."

 

"You can count on that, darlin'."  John Ross kisses his wife again, then walks away, followed by Bobby and Bum.  As Krystina and Donna Love look on, John Ross gets into his car.  Bobby and Bum get into Bobby's car, and the women watch with worry as the men drive away from Southfork.  

A motel in Fort Worth....

 Brian is smoking a cigarette as he looks over at Alex and Bridget, sitting on the bed, their hands tied.   Brian lets out a deep breath and smiles at the two frightened teens.  "Well, kids," he says.  "It's time to go.  Time to get this meeting with John Ross over."

 

"Earlier, you, uh, you said something about settling some old family scores,"  Alex says.  "What'd you mean by that?"

 

Brian puts out his cigarette and stands to his feet.  He remains silent, as if ignoring Alex's question.  He picks up his shirt off the back of a chair and looks at it.  

 

"Are you gonna answer me, or not?"  Alex asks.  "What old family scores do you have to settle with the Ewings?"

 

Brian looks at the boy.  "Are you really that dumb, kid, or is it that you just don't know the colorful history between our two families?  Don't you know that, in a crazy, round about way, the Ewings are the reason we're all here right now like this."

 

"I have no idea what you're talking about."

 

"Then let me fill you in on a little history lesson.  The short version,"  Brian says.  "You see, once upon a time a young woman lived in Dallas.  Her name was Katherine Wentworth."

 

"Your mother,"  says Bridget.

 

"Yeah, that's right.  My mother.  My mother fell in love with a guy named Bobby Ewing, but he didn't return her feelings.  Nope.  He was too hung up on two other ladies......Jenna Wade and my mother's sister, Pamela Barnes.  They stood between Katherine and the only man she ever loved.  Of course, she may not have had a chance with Bobby Ewing anyway, because of his brother, J.R.  That name sound familiar to you, kid?  It should.  J.R. was your grandfather.  Well, ol' J.R. blackmailed my mother into having sex with him, and then just tossed her away, and in the process destroying any chance she may have had with his brother.  So Katherine tried to kill Bobby.  She shot him."

 

"Like mother, like son,"  Alex says.

 

"You shut the hell up, you little punk!"  Brian angrily says as he walks over and slaps Alex across the face.  "My mother became a wanted criminal, all because of the Ewings.  Her life became a living hell and because of that, mine and my sister's lives became a living hell!"

 

"Dude, you are SERIOUSLY pathetic,"  says Alex.  "Blaming my family because your crazy, psychotic mother couldn't handle Bobby's rejection?  Katherine Wentworth deserved everything she  got and more.  She had my grandfather murdered and my grandmother framed and sent to prison to that.  She deserves to spend the rest of her life in prison and so do you."

 

"You little......"  Brian angrily grabs Alex by the shirt, pulls him off the bed, and slams him against the wall as Bridget lets out a scream.  

 

"Please......don't hurt him!"  Bridget begs.  

 

Pinning Alex against the wall, Brian looks at him.  "I could blow your brains out right here and now, kid.  But I won't.  Maybe I'll just wait until John Ross can watch.  But you keep running your mouth, and I won't wait.  I'll kill you."  Brian glares angrily at him for a few seconds, then shoves him down onto the bed next to Bridget.  He then picks his shirt up again and slips it on.  

 

Alex watches his captor as Brian slips his shirt on and picks up his gun from the table and walks to the sink, where he washes his face.  

 

"Bridget, I promise you,"  Alex softly whispers to his girlfriend.  "When this is all over, I'm gonna kill that guy.  If it's the last thing I ever do, I'm gonna kill him."

 

 

 

 

 

 

Sue Ellen's home....

Catlin comes down the stairs at his and Sue Ellen's home and walks into the living room, where he finds his wife on the phone.  "John Ross, it's me again," she says.  "This is the third time this morning that I've called.  I'm just checking on you.  I'm worried.  Please call me as soon as you get this and let me know that you're alright.  I know that we've been having our differences lately, but you're still my son and I do love you.  Hope to hear from you soon.  Bye."  Sue Ellen ends the call and puts her phone down.

 

"Sue Ellen?"  Catlin says.  

 

She turns to face him.  "I didn't hear you come in."

 

"Is everything alright?"

 

"I'm not sure.  I've been calling John Ross all morning, and he's not answering.  I just wanted to make sure that he's alright.  After all, we did just bury his half-brother yesterday."

 

Catlin walks over to her.  "Maybe John Ross just needs some time.  Were he and James close?"

 

"Not so much in recent years, but they use to be fairly close.   I still can't believe that James is gone.  That Katherine Wentworth's daughter is responsible."

 

"I know.  But, thank God, Katelyn Spencer is in jail where she belongs and so is Katherine Wentworth.  Neither one of them will ever be able to hurt the Ewing family ever again."

 

"Now if only that son of Katherine's, Brian Manning, was behind bars,"  Sue Ellen says.  

 

"Manning is probably a long way from here by now," says Catlin.

 

"I certainly hope so."

 

"I have an idea,"  Catlin says, putting his arms around her.  "Once things settle down a bit, how about you and I taking a little vacation?  Maybe even spend a couple weeks down at the Southern Cross.  You haven't spent much time there since Dusty left it to you in his will."

 

"I like that idea,"  Sue Ellen says as the doorbell rings.  "I wonder who that can be."

 

"Only one way to find out."

 

Sue Ellen walks into the foyer and opens the front door to find Eric Love.  She smiles.  "Eric, good morning."

 

"Morning, Mrs. Ewing.  May I come in?"

 

"Yes, of course."

 

The young man walks into the house and Sue Ellen closes the door as Catlin walks into the foyer.  "Eric, hi."

 

"Hello, Catlin,"  Eric says.  

 

"It's good to see you,"  says Catlin.  

 

"Eric, would you like some breakfast?"  Sue Ellen asks.

 

"No, thank you, I've already eaten.  Catlin, the reason I'm here is, I've been doing a lot of thinking.  And, I don't think that either one of us is going to be able to rest easy until we know the truth.  Until we know whether or not you're my father."

 

"Does this mean what I think it means?"  Catlin asks.

 

"I've decided to take that DNA test.  I have to know whether I'm still a Love, or a Ewing."

 

Catlin looks at the young man and smiles.  "I'm very glad to hear that.  Alright, then, first thing tomorrow morning, I'll call and make the arrangements."

 

"Okay.  I guess the sooner we get this behind us the sooner we can get on with our lives.  Well, I'll get out of here now.  I guess you can call me when you get us an appointment for the test?"

 

"I will, but, I'd really like it if you'd stay for a while.  Or better yet, why don't we call C.J., and I'll take us all out to lunch?"

 

"Thanks but, actually C.J. and  I have plans already.  We're gonna have lunch at the club, and then play a couple games of tennis.  So, I'll see you both later."

 

"Alright,"  Catlin says.  

 

"Bye.  Mrs. Ewing."

 

"Goodbye, Eric,"  Sue Ellen says as the young man leaves.  She puts her hand on Catlin's shoulder.  "That must take a load off your mind, Eric deciding to take  the DNA test."

 

"Yes, it does,"  says Catlin.  "But I'll tell ya something, Sue Ellen.  I don't need any test to tell me what I already know.  I know in my heart that Eric is my son.  I just feel it every time I look at that young man."

 

Smiling, Sue Ellen puts her arms around her husband.

Fort Worth....

 John Ross pulls his car up to the address Brian Manning had given him earlier, a building on the outskirts of Fort Worth that looks like an old abandoned warehouse.  He  looks around, but doesn't see anything or anyone in sight. He pauses for a moment, then activates the tracker on his belt buckle before disembarking from his car with the briefcase full of money.  He begins walking toward the building.  "MANNING!?"  He calls out.  "I'M HERE!"

 

A couple of seconds later, Brian steps out of the old building.  Seeing John Ross, he smiles.   "Well, John Ross.  You 

came.  That's good.  That's real good.  I trust that you came alone and you have my money?"

 

"Right here,"  John Ross says, holding up the briefcase.  

 

"Bring it over here, slowly."

 

After a brief hesitation, John Ross cautiously walks toward Brian.  

 

"Okay stop right there,"  Brian tells him.  

 

 

John Ross stops in his tracks and  looks at Brian.  "Alright, Manning.  We're both here.  Now where the hell is my son?"

 

"The kids are okay.  For now.  But before you get to see for yourself, I need to check you out.  Make sure you aren't wired or anything like that.  You can start by taking off that jacket.  It's turning into a warm, summer day, so I doubt you're gonna freeze without it.  And take it off slowly."

 

John Ross removes his jacket.  

 

"Toss it onto the ground, over here,"  Brian says.  Again, John Ross does as he's told.  Brian smiles as he holds his gun on John Ross with one hand and picks the jacket up with the other.  "Good boy."  Brian feels of the jacket, then looks at John Ross.  "Now you can take that gun you've got out and toss it over here."

 

"Gun?"  John Ross asks.

 

"Come on, Ewing.  I'm not stupid, and neither are you.  I've heard enough about you and your family to know that you'd never come out here to meet me all alone, without a gun for protection.  So take it out of wherever you've got it stashed, and do it VERY slowly, unless you want a big ol' Texas size hole blown in the middle of your chest."

 

His heart pounding with fear, John Ross reaches behind him and slowly and carefully removed the pistol he had stashed in the back of his belt.  

 

"Now toss it over  here,"  Brian orders.

 

John Ross tosses the gun over and it lands at Brian's feet.  "Alright,"  John Ross says.  "Now how about lettin' me see my son and his girlfriend?"

 

Brian reaches down and picks up John Ross's gun.  "This way."   Brian motions for John Ross to walk in front of him.  

 

John Ross walks past Brian, and around the old warehouse building, where Alex's car is parked.  

 

"Stop right there,"  Brian says, and John Ross pauses in front of his son's car.  "As you can see your boy and the girl are alive and well."

 

John Ross looks at Alex and Bridget, who are in the car, their hands tied and gags around their mouths.  "Manning, you got your damned money, and me.  Now let those kids go."

 

"What, so soon?"  Brian asks.  "Gee, I thought we could spend some time together, the four of us.  Maybe get to know one another a little better."

 

"Quit playin' games with me, Manning.  I've done everything you asked.  I have a plane waitin' at a private airstrip.  Let's get on with this.  Let those kids go and I'll take you there."

 

Brian looks at him for a moment.  "Go untie 'em.  And John Ross, remember. ..........I have this gun on all three of you.  Try anything funny.....ANYTHING... .......and you'll watch your son's head blown off, so remember that.  Now go untie them."

 

John Ross turns his head and looks at Brian, then walks over to Alex's car,  

opening the door.  He removes the gags from first Alex and then Bridget.  "You two alright?"  He asks.  

 

"Yeah, we're fine,"  replies Alex.  "John Ross, that guy's crazy.  He's not gonna let you go."

 

"Yeah, I know that.  But don't you worry, son.  I can take care of myself."  John Ross unties Alex's hands and feet, then Alex begins untying Bridget.  

 

"Mr. Ewing, does my grandmother know what happened?"  Bridget asks.

 

"Yes, she does.  She's at Southfork, waitin' with Krystina.  Now, you two get to the ranch as fast as you can."

"John Ross, I'm not gonna just leave you here with this guy," Alex says.

 

"Alex you have to.  You've gotta get Bridget out of here.  Just get back to Southfork.  Now do like I tell you."

 

"I don't think so, John Ross,"  comes Brian's voice from behind.  

 

John Ross slowly turns to face him.  "What the hell is that supposed to mean?"

 

"Let's just say that I've grown quite fond of these two since yesterday.  And I'm not quite ready for this party to end.  So all FOUR of us are goin' for a little ride to the airport."

 

"Manning, you son of a bitch,"  says an angry John Ross.  "You told me that you would let these kids go if I came here with that money."

 

"Well, John Ross, I lied.  I guess that's what you get when you trust a cold blooded killer like me.  Especially one who is Katherine Wentworth's son."

 

John Ross's heart sinks when Brian points his gun straight at his head....

Meanwhile....

Sitting in Bobby's car on a street nearby, Bobby and Bum are listening to the conversation via John Ross's wire.  "Manning, you son of a bitch,"  they hear an angry John Ross say.  "You told me that you would let these kids go if I came here with that money."

 

"Well, John Ross, I lied.  I guess that's what you get when you trust a cold blooded killer like me.  Especially one who is Katherine Wentworth's son."

 

 

"Bum, I don't like the sound of that,"  Bobby says.  

 

"Neither do I."

 

"Manning itn't gonna let those kids go.  Maybe we should get over there."

 

"Let's go,"  Bum says.

 

 

 

 

 

Bobby and Bum immediately speed away, headed to the warehouse, hoping they can get there before John Ross or the kids are harmed.

 

 

 

Back at the warehouse....

 

"Manning, now you got what you wanted,"  John Ross says.  "I'm here, with this two million dollars you asked for.  You got no reason to hold on to these kids."

 

"Oh yeah?"  Brian asks.  "Well, John Ross, ever heard that old saying, 'the more, the merrier'?  Just think of the fun we could have.....you, me, and these two.  Besides, I don't exactly trust you to live up to your end of this little bargain.  I feel safer holding on to your boy and his girlfriend.  So the four of us are gonna leave here, go to the airport, and then take a little plane ride to Morocco."

 

"These kids aren't goin' anywhere with you,"  John Ross says as a frightened Alex and Bridget look on.  "I won't do anything stupid.  Because I wanna live through this.  So you let my son and the girl go, and you and I can get the hell outta here."

 

"John Ross, you're really trying my patience right now, and wasting my time,"  Brian says, pointing his gun at John Ross.  "Now I'm gonna say this one time.  All three of you, get in John Ross's car.  He's gonna take us for a little drive."

 

"John Ross, we better do as he says,"  Alex tells his father.

 

"You'd be smart to listen to your kid, Ewing.  He seems to have a better head on his shoulders than you.  Now MOVE!"

 

John Ross looks at Brian, then at Alex and Bridget, who are standing by Alex's car.  Slowly, John Ross begins to move.  He walks past Brian, then, suddenly, he lunges at Brian, grabbing the hand he's holding the gun in.  John Ross forces Brian's hand into the air, then forces him back against the wall of the building.  As Alex and Bridget watch in horror, John Ross and Brian wrestle for control of the gun.  Alex attempts to shove Bridget to the ground just as the gun goes off!!

 

 

Meanwhile, as Bobby and Bum race to the scene in Bobby's car, they can hear the struggle going on via the wire John Ross is wearing, and then, a loud, ear splitting gunshot, followed by the sound of Bridget's screams....

 

 

 

 

 

 

END OF EPISODE 178....