EPISODE 180 - Dead Or Alive

 The area surrounding the creek where Brian Manning had fallen earlier in the morning is now literally crawling with police. from the Fort Worth Police Department, the Tarrant County Sheriff's Department, and the Texas State 

Police.  Two police helicopters fly overheard, as several teams search in the water for Brian Manning's body.  So far, after more than an hour and a half of searching, they had come up empty.  While several of his deputies conduct the search in the water, Tarrant County Sheriff Bill Waybourn is talking with an officer with the State Police.  

"Still no sign of Manning,"  Sheriff Waybourn says to an officer.  "But we got teams searchin' all up and down that creek and we're gone keep searchin' long as we can.  But, that current's pretty strong, and it coulda carried the body on into the Trinity River.  We may never find it."

 

"Sheriff, are you even sure this guy's dead?" The other officer asks.

 

"Jack, you see what a drop it is from that bridge into the water.  Accordin' to those kids, Manning had been shot, and there's rocks down there in that creek, and that's mighty deep water.  All those factors, combined with that strong current, I'd bet my last damn dime that nobody could survive fallin' into THAT creek.  Odds are Manning's dead but we're gone keep lookin' til we come up with somethin'."

 

"Well, let's hope so, Bill,"  the officer says.  "This must make you feel pretty damned good.  One of the most wanted criminals in the entire country met his end right here in your county.."

Fort Worth Police Department....

 Meanwhile, Krystina, Donna Love, and Sharon Smith rush into the police station in Fort Worth, where Alex, Bridget, and Shawn are all sitting quietly in a conference room after being questioned by police about the events surrounding Bridget's kidnapping and subsequent rescue.  Upon entering the station, the three women speak to an officer, who then leads them into the room where the kids are.  "Bridget, thank God!" Donna Love says.

 

"Grandma!" Bridget says, getting up to embrace her grandmother,  

 

"Alex, are you alright?"  Krystina asks.

 

"I'm fine."

 

"And how about you?"  Sharon asks Shawn.

"I'm just great, now that I finally got the bastard who killed Dad,"  Shawn replies.

 

"Bridget, did that monster hurt you?"  Donna Love asks.

 

"No, Grandmother, I'm fine,"  replies Bridget.  "Thanks to Alex and Shawn.  They saved my life."

 

"Is it really over?"  Krystina asks the other who led them into the room.  "Is Brian Manning really dead?"

 

 

"What exactly happened?"  Sharon asks.  "Shawn, honey, you could've been KILLED."

 

"And YOU,"  Krystina says, looking at Alex.  "What were you thinking?  Alex, you were in the hospital with a concussion."

 

"I know, but I HAD to save Bridget."

 

"So is this maniac really dead?"  Donna Love asks.

 

"We're not real sure, ma'am,"  replies the officer.  "Manning's body hasn't been found yet, but, chances are, he's dead.  He'd suffered a gunshot wound to the chest, and that's at least a 100 foot drop off that bridge into some very rough waters.  That creek runs right into the Trinity River, so it's unlikely ANYONE could survive a fall like that and the rough waters, especially injured and bleeding."

 

"So, Manning was shot?"  Sharon asks.  "How'd that happen?"

 

"I shot him,"  replies Shawn.  

 

All eyes turn toward the young man.  

 

"Manning had a gun on Alex,"  Shawn continues.  "So, I shot him."

 

"With MY gun?"  Sharon asks.  "Which you stole?  Oh my God.  You could have ALL been killed."

 

"But we weren't, Mom.  We're all fine, Bridget is safe, and the son of a bitch who killed my father is dead."

"Is he?"  Alex asks.  "I don't know about anyone else, but I'm not gonna rest easy until they find Manning's body and I see it for myself."  

 

"Officer, can we take the kids home?"  Krystina asks.

 

"I'll have to check with Detective Simmons, but, I think we're done.  Hold on."  The officer walks to the door and opens it, then steps out.  A couple of seconds later, he returns with a man in  a suit.  

 

"The kids can go for now,"  the man in the suit says.  "But we may need to ask them some more questions, so, please be available."

 

"Sure,"  Alex says.

 

"Are you kids sure you don't need to go to the hospital and get checked out?"  The young officer asks.

 

"Alex, you really do need to go back to the hospital,"  Krystina says.

 

"No, I'm FINE.  All I wanna do is go home to Southfork, and take a shower, and crawl into bed."

 

"Yeah, me, too,"  says Bridget.

 

"Alright, you can go,"  Detective Simmons says.  "I want you kids to know something.  Even though I'm seriously pissed off at what you did, taking the law into your own hands like that and nearly getting yourselves killed....... I am glad that we at least got one of the most wanted criminals in the United States, Brian Manning.  And that's all thanks to the three of you.  Just don't ever let anything like this happen again."

 

"Don't worry,"  Shawn says.  "We don't plan to."

 

"Well, let's get out of here,"  Donna Love says.  She, Krystina, Sharon, and the three teens leave.

 Pamela's car pulls into Justin's driveway at noon and comes to a stop, as she is bringing him home after bailing him out of jail.  As Pamela starts to get out of the car, Justin remains still in the passenger seat, looking out over his ranch.  "Justin, we're here,"  she says.

 

"I know."

 

"You know, you could've come back to the apartment with me, if you didn't wanna face Debra Lynn, Jimmy, and Ashley."

 

 

"No, it's fine,"  Justin says.  "Debra Lynn, Jimmy, and Ashley are my fam'ly.  We all need each other after everything that's happened.  And I need you too, Pamela."

 

"Well, you've got me.  So come, let's get inside."

 

Justin looks at her for a second, then leans over and kisses her.  "You are the ONE bright spot in my life right now."

 

"I love you, Justin.  And together, there's nothing that we can't face."

 

"Yeah.  Even a murder charge, huh?"

 

"Even that.  Especially since I know you didn't kill Tripp."  Pamela kisses him again, then gets out of the car.  A Moment later, Justin and Pamela walk into the house.  Debra Lynn comes down the stairs to greet them.

 

"Justin,"  Debra Lynn says.  "Thank God you're home."

 

Jimmy and Ashley come into the room.  "Welcome home, Justin,"  Ashley says, giving him a kiss on the cheek.

 

"Thanks, Ash."

 

"Pamela called and told us bail had been set for you,"  Ashley says.

 

"You okay, man?"  Jimmy asks.

 

"I'm okay,"  Justin replies.  "Just glad to be out of that jail.  But how are you guys?  I'm really sorry about what happened.  I was arrested right after the funeral, and I didn't even get a chance to talk to y'all."

 

"Hey, it's alright,"  says Debra Lynn.  "At least you're home now, and, I really think that we should get out of here and give you your space back."

 

"What do you mean?"

 

"You just spent the weekend in jail, Justin.  You have a lot going on right now.  Last thing you need is your brother's widow and her three kids underfoot, especially a crying baby."

 

"Debra Lynn, that's nonsense.  You, Jimmy, Ashley, and my precious little niece Eve are welcome to stay here for as long as you like."

 

"Besides, Justin will probably be spending a lot of time in town, at my apartment,"  Pamela says.  

 

"And I really would like for you guys to stay,"  Justin says.  "We all need each other right now."

 

"You're right about that, Justin,"  says Jimmy.  

 

"Then you'll stay?"

 

Debra Lynn nods.  "Yes.  We'll stay.  For a while."

 

"Good,"  Justin says as Pamela's cell phone rings.  

 

Taking the phone from her purse, she looks at it.  "It's my father,  I'll take it outside,"  she says, then walks out of the house.

 

"You must be hungry,"  Ashley says.  "How about I fix you some lunch?"

 

"That would be great, thanks.  In the meantime, I think I'm gonna go upstairs and get a shower.  Taking one in that jail was next to impossible."

 

"Good, you do that, and by the time you get out, I'll have your lunch fixed."

 

Justin nods.  As he starts to go up the stairs, Pamela comes back into the house, a stunned look on her face.  "Pamela, what's wrong?"  Justin asks.

 

"That was my father calling with some very shocking news.   My Aunt Katherine's son, Brian Manning........ he's probably dead."

 

"What?" Justin asks.

 

"The cops finally caught up with him?"  Jimmy asks.

 

"My father didn't have all the details, but he said it's on the news now.  Apparently, Brian Manning kidnapped John Ross's son Alex and his girlfriend.  John Ross was shot yesterday."

 

"What?"  Justin asks.

 

"John Ross shot?"  Asks Jimmy.  "Is he okay?"

"I guess.  Anyway, today, according to my father, Alex and Shawn Smith, Ann's nephew, rescued Alex's girlfriend.  Brian was shot, and he fell from a bridge into the river.  They're still searching for his body, but the police are pretty sure he's dead."

 

"It should still be on the news,"  Jimmy says, rushing into the living room. He picks up the remote and switches on the TV.  A news report is on about the events of that morning.

 "In what has been called a bizarre turn of events by police, alleged fugitive killer Brian Manning, who was one of this nation's most wanted fugitives, has apparently met his end earlier this morning.  Manning, the son of accused murderess Katherine Wentworth and international business man Jeremy Lord, had been wanted by the FBI for the 2016 bombing of the home of business tycoon Richard Channing in California, a bombing that left three people and an unborn child dead....."

Wentworth Industries....

 

From his office at Wentworth Industries, Katherine's son Jonathon Lord is watching the same newscast about his brother.....

 

"Manning had been on the run for the murders of Pilar Ortega Cumson, wife of Lance Cumson, one of the owners of Falcon Crest winery in California, and two other people.  He has also been wanting for a string of other crimes, including kidnapping, since last year.  Late Saturday, Manning allegedly abducted 18-year-old Alexander Walton and his girlfriend, 18-year-old Bridget McKinnon.  Details are sketchy, but we have learned that this abduction led to yesterday's shooting in Fort Worth of Walton's father, John Ross Ewing III, one of the owners of the Ewing Oil Company in Dallas, in an attempt to rescue the two teenagers.  That rescue was succesful earlier today, when Manning is believed to have fallen to his death during a struggle on top of a footbridge near the old Morton Metal Works factory in Fort Worth.  Walton, McKinnon, and another teen, Shawn Smith, also 18, were all rescued safely without injury.  Smith, ironically, is the son of Mark Smith, one of the victims killed in that bombing of Richard Channing's home in California in 2016...."

 

Picking up his remote, Jonathon mutes the television and lets out a deep sigh.  "Oh my God,"  he says.  

Meanwhile....the Krebbs Ranch.... 

Over at the Krebbs Ranch, Ray, Donna, and Conner are also watching the news report about Brian as the anchorman continues:  "Police are conducting a search of Trinity Creek in hopes of finding Manning's body.  According to Tarrant County Sheriff Bill Waybourn, there is very little chance Manning could have survived the fall into the raging waters of Trinity Creek, and police say they won't stop searching until a body is found.  Manning's mother, Katherine Wentworth, and his twin sister, Katelyn Spencer, are both in jail at the Dallas Police Department, charged with murders unrelated to Manning's crimes.  Katherine Wentworth was recently arrested and charged with the murders of Renaldo Marchetta and Veronica Robinson back in the 1980s.  Wentworth's daughter, Katelyn Spencer, is in jail charged with last week's murder of James Richard Beaumont.  In other news, Dallas Mayor Mike Rawlings......"

 

Donna switches off the TV.  "Wow,"  she says.

 

"Well, now that Manning is presumed dead, and Katherine is gonna face justice, maybe everybody can finally start to breathe a little easier,"  says Ray.  

 

"I know that Ann must be very happy to hear about Manning,"  Donna says.  "After all, he was responsible for her brother's death."

 

"Well, I'd better get back to work,"  Conner says.  "Donna, thanks for lunch."

 

"You're welcome, but what's your hurry?  You usually take a whole hour for lunch."

 

"I just have a lot I need to get done today,"  Conner says.

 

"Nothin' that can't wait a little while,"  Ray says.  

 

"Ray, you wanted to get that fence built by Wednesday."

 

"Yeah, I do wanna get the fence done, but another twenty minutes or so itn't gonna hold us that much."

 

"Conner, is everything alright?"  Donna asks.  

 

"Everything's fine.  Why do you ask?"

 

"Because you've been really on edge all weekend,"  replies Donna.  "And I just wondered if it was because of Dylan's birthday yesterday."

 

"Was yesterday his birthday?"  Conner asks, feigning ignorance.  "Gee, it slipped my mind."

 

"I know better than that,"  says Donna.  "You knew that Ray and I went to visit Dylan yesterday for his birthday."

 

"Yeah, and he asked about you."  Ray says.  

 

"Did he?"

 

"Conner, don't you think it's time you went to see your brother?"  Donna asks.  "We know that you're still upset with Dylan, but, are you just going to ignore him for the rest of your life?  Conner, he IS your brother."

 

"It's gonna make things kinda awkward, too, when Dylan comes home from the center soon,"  Ray says.

 

"I know,"  Conner says with a sigh.  

 

"So don't you think it'd make things easier for all of us if you'd just see Dylan?  Talk to him?"

 

"Ray, I'm just not ready to do that yet.  Dylan has screwed everything up, and, right now, I can't focus on anything else but these charges hanging over my head because of him."

 

"Because of him?"  Ray asks.  "Conner, your brother didn't ask you to take the rap for him in that accident.  You did that because you wanted to.  Because you love your brother.  Dylan did what he thought was right when he told the truth. You both made mistakes.  Now you've both gotta learn to live with those mistakes and face the consequences.  That's why you and Dylan need each other more now than ever."

 

"I have to go,"  Conner says, then quickly leaves.  Ray and Donna exchange worried looks.  

A couple of minutes later....

Four ranch hands are finishing up their lunches on one section of Ray's ranch where they are working on building a fence, including Ben, one of Ray's youngest hand who had attempted to blackmail Dylan several months earlier over Dylan's drinking.  "Man, that sure was good,"  one of the hands says.  "Mz. Krebbs is a great little cook.  Well, come on.  We best get back to work."

 

"Yeah, there comes Conner back now,"  says the third ranch hand, looking up the road and seeing Ray's truck coming

 

"Great,"  Ben says sarcastically.  "Now my day can REALLY begin."

 

"You don't like Conner too much, do ya, Ben?"  Another hand asks.

 

"About as much as I like a skin rash,"  the young man replies, to the laughter of the other three men.

 

"Come on, now, Conner's a good kid,"  says the oldest of the man.  "What you got against him?"

 

"Ben's just jealous, that's all,"  jokes Charley, another young hand about the same age as Ben.  

back of the truck and begins to help Conner and Charley unload several boards of lumber from the bed of the pickup.  "Okay, guys, let's get back to work,"  Conner says.  "Ray wants this fence finished by at least Wednesday afternoon."

 

"Yes, sir, Mr. Ewing,"  says a sarcastic Ben as he looks at Conner, then walks past him and picks up a large pair of wire cutters. 

 

Conner looks at the young man for a moment, then walks over to him.   "Ben, what the hell's your problem with me?"  He asks.

"Other hands?"  Ben asks with a smile.  "Other HANDS?  Now aint that real nice?  You consider yourself just....... one of the hands, when you aint."

 

"What's that supposed to mean?"  Conner asks.

 

"Just what I said.  You call yourself a ranch hand around here, but you're not one of us.  You live up there in the big house with Mr. and Miz Krebbs.  Got that nice truck.  Foreman's job.  Last name is Ewing.  No, man.  You're definitely NOT one of us."

 

"Is that what this is all about?  You're jealous of me and Dylan?"

 

"I'm not jealous of anybody.  Just had my fill of little rich boys like you and your brother.  You get everything handed to you, even the foreman's job on this ranch.  Jesse over there's twice your age and has three times the experience you got, but yet YOU got the foreman's job just 'cause you're kin to Mr. Krebbs.  And your brother, Dylan?  He nearly kills two people drunk drivin', and instead of bein' in jail where he belongs, he's in some nice, fancy rehab center, livin' just as comfortably as if he were home.  And I can pretty much guarantee nothin's ever gonna come of that drunk drivin' accident.  Dylan Baxter will probably NEVER serve a day in jail.  He's just gonna get a pass like all other little rich boys who think they can get away with anything."

 

Unable to control his anger any longer, Conner draws back his fist and punches Ben hard across the face, knocking the young man off his feet and to the ground, much to the shock of the other three hands.  "Ben, I've had enough of your mouth.  Get your things and clear outta here.  You're fired!"

 

"You can't fire me,"  Ben says, wiping blood from his mouth.  "Only Mr. Krebbs can fire me."

 

At that moment, Ray drives up and brings his truck to a stop behind Conner's.  Getting out, Ray sees that something is going on, and walks over to the men just as Ben is getting to his feet.  "Hey, what's goin' on here?"  

 

"I just fired Ben,"  replies Conner.

 

"Fired Ben?  How come?"  Ray asks.

 

"Because I'm sick and tired of his attitude, that's why."

 

"Ben?  What's goin' on?"  Ray asks.

 

"Just a little misunderstandin', Mr. Krebbs,"  Ben says.  "I was just speakin' my mind, and Conner here hauled off and hit me."

 

"Conner, that true?"

 

"Ray this guy has had an attitude problem with me ever since he started work here."

 

"But, Conner, Ben's one of our best hands."

 

"I don't care.  I can't work with him anymore."

 

"I'll get my stuff and clear out,"  Ben says.  He starts to walk away.

 

"Ben, now wait a minute,"  Ray says.  "I think you both need to just cool off for a while.  Ben, I think they need another hand over at Southfork.  How'd you feel about workin' over there for a few days until you and Conner can cool off?"

 

"Southfork?  Yeah, okay, sure."

 

"Alright.  Just wait right here and I'll go call Southfork and arrange for ya to be hired on over there temporarily."  Ray walks to his truck, taking his cell phone out.  Conner and Ben exchange angry looks, a somewhat smug expression on Ben's face as he silently gloats that Ray didn't allow Conner to fire him.  

 

 

 

 

Southfork....

 Christopher is coming out onto the patio at Southfork when his cell phone begins ringing.  He takes the phone from his pocket and looks at it, then quickly answers.  "Hey, Uncle Ray, how's it goin'?"

 

"Hey, Christopher, I tried callin' your father, but all I got was his voicemail.  Listen, could you use another good hand over at Southfork?  When I talked to Bobby a few days ago he said Southfork was short a couple."

 

"Yeah, it's true.  We're short a couple hands."

 

"Well, good,"  Ray says.  "I got a young man here who's been workin' on my ranch for the past several months, and, he's a good kid and a real good worker.  He and Conner are just havin' a little trouble gettin' along, so I was wonderin' if Ben could come work at Southfork for a while, until these two young hot heads cool off."

 

"Yeah, sure, that'd be great, Uncle Ray.  Have him come on over this afternoon.  I'm just heading into Ewing Oil for a while.  I'll be home around five, so, just have him come over then."

 

"Well, you takin' care of the ranch?"

 

"Yeah.  You said you haven't talked to my Dad?"

"No, I haven't.  Christopher, what's goin' on?  I heard about all the stuff that happened with Brian Manning, and John Ross gettin' shot.  Is anything else wrong?"

 

"Yeah,"  replies Christopher.  "I thought my Dad would've called you.  Uncle Ray, Dad's in California.  There was an accident.  It's Lucas.  He was hurt pretty bad."

The Dallas Police Department....late afternoon....

 Austin is waiting in a small visiting room at the Dallas Police Department late that afternoon when Katherine is brought in.  She pauses at the door as she enters the room, surprised to see her son.  "Austin,"  she says.

 

"Hi, Mom."

 

"Oh, darling,"  Katherine says, rushing over to her son.  The female deputy who brought her in clears her throat as Katherine is about to hug Austin, indicating that physical contact is not allowed.  Katherine gives the woman an angry look.  "I'm sorry,"  Katherine says.  "No contact, it's  one of the rules.  Austin, I'm so glad to see you and see that you're alright."

 

"I'm fine, except for a bump on the head."

 

"Oh, sweetheart, I'm so sorry for hitting you."

 

"Mom, it was an accident."

 

"Yes, an accident thanks to Bobby Ewing,"  Katherine says.  "So.....you're out on bail?"

 

"Even better than that,"  says Austin.  "My attorney told me that the charges against me have been dropped.  I'm completely free."

 

"Really?  Oh, darling, that's wonderful.  I guess Bobby really did keep his word to me."

 

"Mom, I don't understand.  Drew Demarest did say that Bobby Ewing had talked to the D.A. about dropping the charges against me.  But why?  Why would he do that?"

 

"Because I asked him to,"  Katherine replies.

 

"You......you SAW him?"

 

"Bobby came to see me yesterday.  He wanted my help in trying to lure Brian out of hiding, and in exchange, I asked him to help you.  To try and get the charges dropped against you.  I never actually expected him to do it, especially since....."

 

"Since what?"  Austin asks.  "Mom, is that what happened to Brian?  How they found him?"

 

"No,"  Katherine says in tears.  "I never got a chance to help the police.  Next thing I heard, your brother was.......... Oh God."  Katherine begins to cry.

 

Austin starts to reach across the table to comfort his mother, but the female deputy watching them shakes her head at him, and he pulls his hands back.  "Mom, I'm........I'm really sorry about Brian.  I can imagine how much you're hurting right now."

 

"Yes, I am.  He's gone, Austin.  Your brother is dead, your sister and I are sitting in here, and Katie is on suicide watch.  They won't even let me see her."

 

"Well, maybe they'll let me see her."

 

"Would you?"  Katherine asks.

 

"Yeah, I'll try."

 

"Okay, time's almost up,"  the deputy says.

 

"Can't you give me just a few more minutes with my son?"  Katherine asks.

 

"Sorry, Mrs. Channing.  Can't do that.  You know the rules."

 

"Fine!  Austin, thank you for coming.  I couldn't blame you if you never wanted to see me again."

 

"Mom, no matter what's happened, you're still my mother."

 

"I love you, Austin."

 

"I love you, too,"  Austin says, he and Katherine both standing.  "Mom, I really am sorry about Brian, but only because of the pain his death is causing you.  Other than that........I'm sorry to say this to you, but, even though Brian was my brother, I can't say that I'm sorry he's dead.  He hurt a lot of people, including me.  He was a monster and a murderer."

 

"Well, according to a lot of people.......so is your mother,"  Katherine says, then she is led out of the room by the deputy as Austin watches sadly.  

Southfork.....late evening....

 John Ross and Krystina walk into the foyer at Southfork that night as she brings him home from the hospital.  "Damn, feels good to walk back into Southfork again,"  John Ross says.  "Yesterday, I wasn't so sure I'd ever see this place again."

 

"Well, thank God you're home,"  Krystina says as Christopher and Lucy walk in.  

 

"John Ross!"  Lucy says with a smile.  "Welcome home."  She greets her cousin with a hug, causing John Ross to wince in pain.  "Oh, I'm sorry, did I hurt you?"

 

"It's nothin'.  Just gonna be sore for a while."

 

"Well, we're glad you're okay,"  says Christopher.

 

"Thank ya, cousin,  Where the hell is everybody else?"

 

"Dad, and Heather are in California,"  Christopher says.

 

"Oh, that's right, Lucas and the fire."

 

Alex comes down the stairs at that moment.  He and John Ross look at each other for a moment.  

 

 Donna comes down the stairs later that night and finds Ray in the kitchen drinking a glass of milk.  She pauses for a couple of seconds and watches him, then walks in.  "Ray," she says.  "What are you doing?  It's almost 1 a.m."

 

"I couldn't sleep.  Thought maybe a glass of warm milk would help."

 

Donna walks over to him.  "Still worried about Lucas?"

 

"Yeah."

 

"You also seem angry.  You talked to Bobby, and he said they didn't think Lucas's injuries were life threatening."

 

"I know.  It's just that......... damn it, Donna, Bobby should've called me about Lucas just as soon as he found out.  Instead I had to hear about it from Christopher, and I prob'ly wouldn't have even then if I hadn't called Southfork to ask about them takin' Ben on for a while.  I raised Lucas.  It's not right for Bobby to exclude me from his life like that."

 

"Ray, I don't think that Bobby meant to EXCLUDE you from Lucas's life,"  Donna says.  "He was probably just so upset when he got the news, that he didn't think about calling you."

 

"But still, I should've been told,"  says Ray.  "I raised Lucas as my son and I still love him like he's mine, even though we're not as close anymore."

 

"Is that all that's bothering you?"  Donna asks, putting her hand on his back.  

 

"No.  It's Conner, too.  He was real upset with me today when I didn't let him fire Ben after they had that little fight."

 

"Can't say I much blame him for that,"  Donna says.

 

"What?"

 

"You gave Conner the job as your ranch foreman.  And with that job comes the responsibility of hiring and firing hands.  He probably felt that you took that authority away from him, and did it in front of some of the other hands."

 

"I just didn't feel it was right for him to fire Ben, that's all.  Ben's a good kid, and he's young, but he's one of our very best hands.  I dunno, somethin's been brewin' between them for months now, and it just came to a head today.  Besides, if Ben was out of a job, he'd really have nowhere else to go."

 

"What about his family?  Are they from around here?"

 

"No,"  Ray says.  "There's only his father, and he lives over in East Texas."

 

"What in the world is a young boy like that doing this far from home?"  Donna asks.

 

"Well, accordin' to Ben, his mother died a few years ago, and he and his father didn't get on so good, so he hit the road when he was 16.  Tried to make his way on his own.  Kinda reminds me of myself when I first came to Southfork after my mother got sick.  I showed up at the ranch with just a suitcase in my hand and a letter to Jock Ewing from my mother askin' him to take me in and give me a job."

 

"Only Ben didn't have a letter from his mother,"  says Donna.

 

Ray smiles.  "No, he didn't.  All he had was that boyish face and a twinkle in his eye, so I gave the boy a chance.  And he's proved to be one of the best and hardest workers I've got.  When he's worked at Southfork for a few days, I think I'm gonna bring him back here and sit him and Conner down and try to work out whatever this is between 'em."

 

"And if it can't be worked out and those two really CAN'T work together?"  Donna asks.

 

Ray sighs.  "Well, then, I guess Ben's gonna have to go, as much as I'd hate that.  Maybe they can keep him on over at Southfork."

 

Donna smiles.  "Okay, well, now that we've kind of worked through that, how about we go up and try and get some sleep?  It's now AFTER 1 in the morning.  You have to work the ranch tomorrow, and I have to fly to Austin on Railroad Commission business."

 

"Yeah.  Okay, let's get to bed then,"  Ray says. He finishes off his glass of milk, puts down his glass, then he and Donna leave the kitchen, switching off the light on their way out.

The Fairview Hotel....two days later....

 Courtney walks out of a rear exit of the Fairview Hotel two mornings later and looks around.  Spotting Jacob in the pool with her brother Gavin, an angry look comes over her face.  After a brief pause, she walks over to the pool.  

 

"Courtney, watch this!"  Jacob says as he steps onto the diving board.   Courtney watches her son as he dives into the pool. 

 

After his dive, Jacob swims over to Courtney, then climbs out of the pool.  "I'm getting good, huh?  Gavin taught me."

 

"Yeah, you're getting real good.  Honey, dry off, go up to the room and get changed.  Your Grandma wants to take us to breakfast."

 

"Do I HAVE to go?  I wanna stay here and swim some more with Gavin."

 

"No, now you go up and do as I say.  Be dressed by the time I get up there,"  says Courtney.  

 

"Gavin, are you coming to breakfast with us?"  Jacob asks.  

 

"I dunno, maybe, Jacob."

 

"Okay, see you guys upstairs,"  Jacob says, then runs off toward the hotel.  

"Gavin, what the hell is going on?"  Courtney asks.

 

"What does it look like?  I was giving my nephew some pointers in diving, until we were so rudely interrupted."

 

"Alright, this stops NOW, before it goes any further."

 

"What are you talking about?"  Gavin asks.

"You spending time with my son, teaching him how to dive or whatever, and generally becoming his new hero.  The last person my son needs as a hero is his juvenile delinquent uncle."

 

"Hey, now wait a minute!"  Gavin says.  

"No, YOU wait a minute.  Look, in just a few days, Jacob has really taken a liking to you."

 

"And you can't stand that, can you?"

 

"No, actually, I CAN'T,"  says Courtney.  "Gavin, you have never been anything but trouble.  And I sure don't want you being a bad influence on Jacob, so just stay away from him."

"You know you really are a piece of work, sis," Gavin says.  "Think you're so high and mighty?  You say I'm a bad influence on your kid, but you don't even know me.  We haven't seen each other in five years, so you have no idea what kind of person I am now."

 

"So you're saying you're not the same lying pot smoking delinquent you always were?  In the few days that you've been here, I don't see a different person.  I see the same person now at 22 that you were when you were 16."

 

"You have ALWAYS had this dislike for me, and I never understood why,"  Gavin says.  "Is it because I chose to stay with Dad when him and Mom split up?   I understood that Mom needed you.  She was all alone.  But Dad needed me."

 

"Dad didn't need you.  He had his longtime girlfriend.  The woman he had cheated on Mom with for years, and YOU took his side when our mother needed both of us."

 

"I was 10-years-old, Courtney.  Dad was my hero.  You know I was never as close to Mom as you were."

 

"And when you went to live with Dad and his new wife, it broke Mom's heart.  And especially when you started getting into trouble, and doing drugs.  It nearly killed her."

 

"If you were so perfect, then why did Mom send you to live in Florida with our aunt?   You say I broke Mom's heart?  I'm sure you getting pregnant at 15 caused her a little heartache, too."

 

Courtney angrily shakes her head.  "Why don't you just go back to Dad's, Gavin?  Or better yet, do something with your life for a change and get a job and grow up!"  Courtney turns and walks away from her brother.

Ewing Oil....later....

 Late in the morning, the elevator doors open at Ewing Oil and John Ross steps off.   "John Ross, hi,"  says a Ewing Oil employee as she greets him. 

 

"Hey, how's it goin'?" John Ross asks.

 

"Just fine.  Welcome back."

 

"Thank you,"  he replies, then heads toward his office.

 

 

"John Ross, welcome back!"  Says Sally, getting up from her desk to greet her boss with a hug.  

 

"Ah, thank ya, darlin'."

 

"How are you feeling?"  

 

"Still pretty sore, but, on the mend,  I have to take it easy for a while, but I got sick and tired of sittin' around Southfork, so, here I am."

 

Sally smiles.  "Well, it's great to have you back, especially so soon."

 

"I appreciate that.   Is my Mama in her office?"

 

"Yes, she is, but, she's on a conference call right now and asked not to be disturbed."

 

"Well, soon as she's done, ask her to step into my office, would ya?"

 

"Yes, I will, oh, and John Ross.......there's something you should know."

 

"Oh?  What's that?"  He asks.

 

"Clay Jamison......uh.....Clay BEAUMONT......has called several times, asking about you in the past couple of days."

 

"Has he?"  John Ross asks.

 

"Yes, and he wants you to call him back as soon as you can at this number,"  Sally says, picking up a piece of paper from her desk and giving it to him.

 

"Thank ya, Sally."  John Ross takes the piece of paper, then turns and walks into his office, closing the door behind him.  Taking a seat behind his desk, he looks at the piece of paper with Clay's number and wonders if he should call him.  After a hesitation of a few moments, he picks up his phone and dials the number on the paper.

Clay's apartment building....

As Clay steps off the elevator in his apartment building, his cell phone rings.  Taking the phone out of his jacket pocket, he looks at the caller I.D. and smiles.  He waits for the phone to ring five times, then answers.  "John Ross, thanks for returning my call.  I wasn't sure Sally would even give you the message."

Ewing Oil....

 

"Alright, what the hell do you want, Clay?"

 

"I'd like to see you.  Could we have lunch today?"

 

"Now why would I wanna have lunch with you of all people after that stunt you pulled at my brother's funeral?"

 

Clay's apartment building....

 

"Because we're family,"  Clay replies.  

 

"That remains to be seen."

 

"Still don't believe that James was my father, do you?  Even though my mother confirmed it."

 

"From what I remember of Michelle Stevens, and from what I've heard other people say, she's about as trustworthy as a coyote in a chicken coup.  So why should I take her word?"

 

"Well, if need be, I'm more than willing to take a DNA test to prove that your older brother was my father.  But, the second reason you'd wanna meet me for lunch is that I have some information you're gonna find very valuable."

 

"What kind of information?"  John Ross asks.

 

"Meet me for lunch and you'll find out,"  Clay replies.  "How about La Petite Maison, one o'clock?"  John Ross remains silent on the other end of the line.  "I'll be having lunch there at one,"  Clay continues.  "I hope to see you there.  And John Ross......you WON'T be disappointed."  Clay ends the call, puts his phone away, and smiles.

Ewing Oil....

Back in his office, John Ross puts down his phone, curious to know what kind of information Clay had that was so important.  

The Krebbs Ranch....early afternoon....

Ray drives his truck down a road on his ranch early in the afternoon.  He turns the truck onto a pasture and 

comes to a stop near where Conner and four ranch hands are working on the fence they are building.  Ray gets out of the truck and walks over to them.  "How's it goin', boys?"  Ray asks.

 

"Almost done, Mr. Krebbs,"  one of the men replies.  "Should have this fence done by late this afternoon."

 

"Good.  You boys are  doin' a fine job.  Why don't y'all go ahead and take your lunch?  I brought some fried chicken for everybody.  It's in the truck."

"Thank ya, Mr. Krebbs,"  another hand says.  

 

"Conner, can I talk to ya for a second?"  Ray asks.

 

"Sure.  What's up?"  Conner asks.

 

"Conner, I wanna talk to ya about Ben."

 

"Ray, I don't wanna talk about that guy.  You made your decision.  Let's just drop it,"  Conner says.

 

"Look, just hear me out.   Conner, I know you're upset with me because ya think I went over your head after you'd fired Ben."

 

Conner looks at him.  "Ray, you gave me this job as foreman of this ranch.  Gave me the authority to hire hands, and fire them if they gave me a reason.  And then the FIRST time one of them gave me a reason, you step in and tell Ben he can stay, rendering my decision void.  And not only that, but you did it in front of the other hands.  Ray, the other man already think of me as too young and inexperienced for this job.  The younger hands don't, but the older ones sure do.  Guys like Jesse and Greg and Mike..  They never say anything, but I can tell they don't really respect me because I'm young enough to be their son.  Now, I feel like they'll never respect me."

 

"Conner, I'm real sorry,"  Ray says.   "I'll talk to the boys.  I never meant for this to happen.  What......what exactly is this problem between you and Ben, anyway?"

 

"Ray, you're gonna have to ask him that, because I honestly have no idea.  Ever since that kid came to work here last year, he's had this dislike for me, and for Dylan."

 

"Yeah, I remember he and Dylan had some problems a while back.  Any idea what that was about?"

 

"None,"  says Conner.  "Charley says he thinks Ben is jealous."

 

"Well, now that could be true.  Conner, maybe if you understood a little more about Ben's background.  His mama died a few years ago, and, there was only him and his older brother.  Ben and his father didn't get along.  The father was kind rough on him, so when he turned 16 he left.  That's when he came here.  I kinda feel sorry for the kid.  But, if his bein' here is gonna be a problem, especially if it's gonna come between you and me, then, Ben's gonna have to go."

 

"No,"  Conner says, shaking his head.  "Ray, if it means that much to you.........I'll give him another chance.  I'll do my best to get along with him, but he's gonna have to do the same."

 

Ray nods and smiles.  "Good.  I appreciate that.  And don't worry.  I'll have a talk with Ben, and, the minute he gives you anymore trouble, he's outta here."

 

"Okay.  Fair enough."

 

"Now, let's go grab a piece or two of that fried chicken before it's all gone,"  Ray says.  

 

Conner smiles, then picks his shirt up off the fence, then he and Ray head over to Ray's truck to have lunch with the other hands.

La Petite Maison French Restaurant....

 John Ross walks into La Petite Maison Restaurant shortly after 1 P.M., and is greeted by a hostess who shows him to Clay's table.   "Can I get you anything to drink, Mr. Ewing?"  The young woman asks.

 

"Not just yet, darlin'."

 

"Alright, your server will be with you shortly."

 

"Thank you,"  Clay says as she walks away.

 

"Okay, now what's this all about?"  John Ross asks.  "I almost didn't come."

 

"Then why did you?"

 

"Let's just say I was curious.  You've really shown me that you've got some balls, the way you wormed your way into my fam'ly's comp'ny under false pretenses, then announced to the world that you are my brother's son at his funeral.  And then to call me and ask to meet for lunch.  Kinda reminds me of.......me."

 

Clay smiles.  "Well, thank you, John Ross.  I take that as a compliment."

 Jay is at his desk at Smithfield And Bennett that afternoon.  He looks at a photo of himself and Jill sitting atop his desk.  After staring at the photo for a few seconds, he replaces it on the desk, then picks up his cell phone.  He hesitates briefly, then dials Jill's number.  Her phone rings several times, then her voicemail answers.  Deciding not to leave a message, Jay hangs up and puts his phone down.  Just then his secretary buzzes his office.  "Yes, Karen?"

 

"Mr. Smithfield, Gail Copeland is here to see you."

 

"Oh, send her in."  Jay stands to his feet and walks to the door to greet the beautiful young assistant District Attorney as she walks in.

     "Hello, counselor,"  Gail says.  

 

"Gail, how are you?"

 

"Just fine.  I have some news that I'm sure you're gonna like."

 

"Well,if it's good news, then please tell me,"  Jay says.  "I could sure use some right now."

 

"The charges have been dropped against your cousin Dylan Baxter and his half-brother, Conner Ewing."

 

"What?  The charges were dropped?  But, I don't understand.  How'd that happen?"

 

"You're never going to believe this, so hold on to your hat.  John Ross Ewing talked to the Braddock D.A,, and persuaded him to drop all charges against both Conner and Dylan."

 

Jay's mouth drops open in shock.  "He.....John Ross did?  But, that doesn't make sense.  He was the one who was pushing for the maximum sentence.  Why would he just up and drop the charges like that?  Unless somebody blackmailed him into it."

 

Gail laughs.  "Hey, don't look a gift horse in the mouth.  Just accept it, inform your clients that they're free and clear, as long as Dylan stays at the Hagman Center until his treatment is up, and he attends regular AA meetings for the duration, after he's released.  Those are the D.A.'s conditions for dropping the charges.  He really wasn't happy about it, but, apparently Ewing used his name and his influence.  But like I said, don't look a gift horse in the mouth."

 

"Yeah, but I'm still curious why he did it."

 

"Who knows?  Maybe that whole experience he went through with Brian Manning and getting shot changed him."

 

"John Ross?  No way.  You don't know the guy. I do.  But, maybe you're right.  Why question a miracle."

 

"There ya go,"  Gail says with a smile.  "Jay, is everything alright with you?"

 

Jay sighs deeply.  "No, not really.  But I don't really wanna talk about it right now."

 

"Fair enough,"  Gail says as Jay's secretary buzzes again.

 

"Yes, Karen?"

 

"Justin Ewing and Pamela Barnes are here."

 

"Oh, I forgot.  Justin was coming by to discuss his case.  Send them in, Karen."

 

"Okay, well, I'll get out of your hair, then.  How about dinner one night this week?"

 

"Dinner sounds good,"  Jay says.  "I'll call you tomorrow."

 

Gail smiles, then leaves, passing Justin and Pamela on the way out.  

 

"Hey guys, come in,"  says Jay.  

 

"Hi, Jay,"  says Justin.  

 

"Justin, how are you?"

 

"Other than the fact that I'm facing a murder charge, I guess I can't complain."

 

"I know it must be rough, but at least you're out of that jail."

 

"Jay, has there been any break in the investigation?"  Pamela asks.

 

"No, none.  And you should both know that, even though the investigation is still technically open, the police are no longer actively seeking out new leads."

 

"What?  But why?"  Pamela asks.

 

"Because of my arrest, right?"  Asks Justin.  

 

"Yeah."

 

"Great. The cops think they got their killer, so they just stop lookin' for the real murderer."

 

"Listen, I am NOT giving up,"  Jay says.  "I'm gonna keep pushing the police to continue investigating.  If they won't, then we'll hire our own detectives."

 

"Thank you, Jay,"  says Pamela.

 

"Have a seat, and we'll go over your case,"  Jay says, returning to his desk.

 

Justin and Pamela take seats in front of the desk.  "Jay, have you talked to my sister in the last few days?"  Justin asks,  "I been callin' Jill since I got outta jail on Monday, and I can't reach her."

 

"No.  Actually, I was hoping you'd heard from her.  I've tried calling Jill, too, but, she doesn't answer.  Her voicemail picks up every time."

 

"Damn. I hope she's okay,"  Justin says.

 

"Yeah, me, too,"  Jay says sadly.

Southfork....that night....

 

 John Ross walks into the den at Southfork that night just as Krystina comes down the stairs.  "John Ross,"  she says, walking into the den behind him.

 

"Hey, darlin', I'm sorry I'm late."

 

"It's okay.  I was starting to worry."

 

"I got hung up in a meetin'.  I got some real good news today that could help me do somethin' I been wantin' to do for a long time now."

 

"And what's that?"

 

"Bring down Brad Stone and Cliff Barnes once and for all."

 

"I'm not sure I follow,"  Krystina says.  

 

"Well, I can't go into all the details right now, but, it seems that Stone had borrowed some money from Tripp McKay before McKay was murdered.  And I mean a LOT of money to save his sinkin' comp'ny.  When Stone got on McKay's bad side, McKay called in that loan and Stone couldn't repay it.  Then, McKay got his head bashed in."

 

"John Ross, I'm still not following.  What does that have to do with anything?"

 

"Sweetheart, don't you see?  Brad Stone had one hell of a motive to wanna kill Tripp McKay.  And if Stone does NOT have an alibi for the night McKay was killed, then, that would have to place him at the top of the suspect list.  That could only help Justin's case.  And second, I got some information today.  It seems that, since McKay is not alive to collect that debt owed to him by Stone-Barnes Oil, the debt will be collected by McKay's estate, or else, McKay's estate will own that upstart oil comp'ny of Stone's..  Unless a third party steps in and pays that debt, then that third party would take ownership of Stone-Barnes Oil lock, stock, and barrel.  And guess who is gonna step in and pay off Brad Stone's debt."

 

"You?"

 

"That's right.  Not only will I put Stone-Barnes out of business, but, won't it kill those two to know that their comp'ny has been swallowed up by Ewing Oil?  I wouldn't be surprised if ol' Cliff Barnes didn't drop dead of a heart attack on the spot."

 

Krystina manages a slight smile but seems uninterested in her husband's news.  

 

"Darlin' are you alright?"  John Ross asks.

 

"I'm sorry, John Ross.  I just have a lot on my mind."

 

"Oh, Krystina, I AM sorry.  I don't know what I was thinkin'.  Have you heard any more from Danny?"

 

"Yes.  I talked to both my mother and my brother Steven earlier today, and there's no change.  Danny's still in a coma."

 

"I'm so sorry to hear that."

 

"John Ross, I think I'd like to fly to California tomorrow for at least a couple of days.  Steven needs to know that I'm there for him."

 

"I think that's a good idea.  I talked to Christopher, and Uncle Bobby is bringin' Lucas home.  They're gonna be flyin' back to Dallas tomorrow."

 

"That's good,"   Krystina says.

 

John Ross walks over to his wife and puts his arms around her.  "Danny is gonna be fine in a few days, too.  I just know it."

 

"I hope you're right.  I just wish I knew how that fire started."

 

"Well, Krystina, it WAS Richard Channing's house, and, as we know from what happened two years ago, that fam'ly has a lot of enemies.  Which makes me real uneasy about Elena takin' Little John out there for a weekend visit.  By the way, where's Alex?"

 

"He went over to Bridget's to watch a movie.  Alex wanted to go out to a movie, but, Bridget's grandmother doesn't want her going out right now."

 

"Yeah, I don't much like for Alex to be out by himself either right now,"  John Ross says as Maria comes to the door.

 

"Excuse me, Mr. Ewing?"  She says.

 

"Yes?"

 

"Detective Anderson is here to see you."

 

Craig Anderson walks into the room.  "Evening, John Ross," he says.  "Mrs. Ewing."

 

"Detective,"  says John Ross.  "What brings you all the way out here this evenin'?"

 

"John Ross, I wanted to come out and let you know myself that, if Brian Manning's body hasn't been recovered by this weekend, the police are calling off the search."

 

"What?"

 

"You can't be serious,"  Krystina says.

 

"Why in the hell are they callin' off the search?  Manning is a murderer."

 

"Because the police, as well as the FBI, are certain that Manning is dead, and that his body was swept into the Trinity River.  That entire creek, the Trinity River in both Fort Worth and Dallas, and all the major creeks that branch off have been combed thoroughly.  The body could have floated all the way into Lake Livingston down in south east Texas by now.  Chances of finding it are slim at this point."

 

"I will not rest until Brian Manning's body has been found,"  John Ross says.  "Until it HAS been found, I won't believe that son of a bitch is really dead."

 

"John Ross, it would've been nearly impossible for anyone to survive falling into those waters of Trinity Creek.  Manning had been shot in the chest.  He was weak, losing blood.  There's no way he could've fought that current.  Besides, one of the largest manhunts in Texas history has been conducted, with no trace of him.  He's dead, John Ross."

 

"Can you guarantee that?"

 

Craig remains silent.

 

"Come on.  Can you guarantee 100% that Brian Manning is dead?"  John Ross asks.

 

"No, of course not,"  Craig replies.

 

"Then I won't believe it.  Alright, Detective.  The cops wanna call off the search for Manning, fine.  I'll hire my own damned detective agency to find him, and to not stop until I have absolute proof the bastard who kidnapped my son is dead."  John Ross walks past Craig.  "You can see yourself out,"  he says as he leaves the room and heads up the stairs.  Krystina looks at Craig, then follows John Ross out.

The Krebbs Ranch....

 While Donna and Conner are having breakfast in the Krebbs kitchen the next morning, Ray is on the phone.  "Jay, that's some great news,"  Ray says.  "Yeah, kinda hard to believe.  Well, it's about time we had some good news around here.  Thanks for callin'.  Yeah.  Bye."  Ray hangs up the phone and walks over to the table.

 

"Well, what was that all about?"  Donna asks.  "Must've been some great news."

 

"Some of the best.  That was Jay Smithfield."

 

"That much, we gathered,"  says Donna.  "What'd he have to say?"

 

"Conner........all charges against you and Dylan have been dropped."

 

"What?"  Asks a stunned Conner.

 

"Ray, are you serious?"  Donna asks.

 

"Dead serious.  The charges have all been dropped."

 

"But, I don't understand,"  says Conner.  "How?"

 

"Well, now that's what you're REALLY gonna find hard to believe.  John Ross got the D.A. to drop the charges."

 

"John Ross?"

 

"Wait.....Ray, did I just hear you right?"  Donna asks.  "John ROSS got the charges dropped?"

 

"Sure did."

 

"But, I don't understand,"  Conner says.  "The guy wanted me and Dylan to hang.  Now, all of sudden, he's come to our defense?"

 

"Did Jay have any reason why?"  Donna asks.

 

"Nope.  But he said not to question it, just accept it and be happy.  Now, Dylan won't have to have a felony on his record, only a mild misdemeanor, and Conner won't have to face any punishment either."

 

Donna smiles.  "Well, HALLELUJAH!!"  She says happily, throwing her arms up in the air.  

 

"We're gonna have to make a trip out to the Hagman Center today to tell Dylan the good news,"  Ray says.

 

"Ray?"  Conner says.

 

"Yeah?"

 

"I'd like to do that myself, alone,"  says Conner.  "Would you guys mind if I went to see Dylan and told him?"

 

Ray looks at the young man and smiles.  "No, we wouldn't mind that at all.  This news should come from you."

 

Ray and Donna look at each other happily.

The Fairview Hotel....

 Phyllis, Courtney, Jacob, and Gavin are having breakfast in their hotel suite that morning.  Phyllis is reading the morning paper while the others eat in silence.  "The police are saying that there's very little hope that they'll ever find Brian Manning's body, so they're probably gonna call off the search,"  Phyllis says.

 

"Hopefully that maniac is dead and gone,"  says Courtney.

 

"Who's Brian Manning?"  Gavin asks.

 

"Where have you been?"  Courtney asks her brother.  "He's one of the country's most notorious killers, and one of the most wanted men in America.  He's the son of Katherine Wentworth."

 

"Sorry.  I just don't keep up with the news."

 

"Well, hopefully that nightmare is over for everyone involved,"  Phyllis says.

 

"Gavin, wanna go swimming after breakfast?"  Jacob asks.  

 

Gavin looks at the boy, then at Courtney.  "Sorry,  kiddo, but I can't today.  I got someplace to go."

 

Phyllis looks at her son and smiles.  "Really?  Now what have you got to do today that's so important?"

 

"Well, I'm, uh........I'm going out to look for a job,"  Gavin replies.

 

"A job?  Really?"

 

"Sure.  I mean, after all, if I'm gonna be in Dallas for a while, I should start earning my own way."

 

"Well, I'm very proud of you, honey, but, what brought this on?" Phyllis asks.

 

"Well, Mom, actually, I'm just taking Courtney's advice."

 

"Courtney's advice?"

 

"What are you talking about?"  Courtney asks.

 "Don't you remember the other morning when you told me I need to get off my ass, do something with my life and get a job?"  Gavin asks his sister.  "Well, I'm taking your advice."

 

"Really?  Wow, that's a surprise."

 

"I wanna prove to you that I've changed, and that I'm not the same screwed up kid I was when you last saw me.  And I'm gonna do it, too."

 

"Honey, you don't have anything to prove to anyone,"  says Phyllis.

 

"That's where you're wrong, Mom.  Because my big sister here thinks that I'm still a screw up.  But I'm gonna prove her wrong."  Gavin stands to his feet.  "I'll see you all later."  Gavin picks up a piece of bacon from his plate, puts it in his mouth, then leaves.

 

"Well, I really hope he's serious,"  Courtney says.

 

"If your brother does get a job and prove to you that he's now a responsible adult, will you stop being so hard on him?"  Phyllis asks.

 

"Sure, Mom.  If Gavin gets a job and actually keeps it more than two weeks........then I'll apologize to him for everything I've said to him and thought about him the last few days he's been here. But I'm not holding my breath."

A private jet en route to Dallas....

          

 Bobby and Jenna are sitting across from each other on a private jet headed from California back to Dallas later in the morning as they are bringing Lucas home.  Jenna watches Bobby as he silently stares out the window.  "That must be some view,"  she finally says.  

 

"I'm sorry, what?"  Bobby asks.

 

"You haven't said five words since we left the airport in California.  What's on your mind?"

 

"I'm sorry, I'm really not very good company.  I was just thinkin' about Ann, and Emma.  Her bringing Emma back to Dallas.  Emma Ryland is about the last person in the world I wanna see right now, with the possible exception of her aunt, Katherine Wentworth."

 

"You won't have to see her,"  Jenna says.  

 

"Come on, Jenna.  Dallas may be a large city, but in a lotta ways it's iust a small town.  I'm bound to run into Emma and Ann eventually."

 

Jenna looks behind her and sees that Lucas is still asleep and Heather has fallen asleep beside him.  "Bobby. I've been thinking.  About our grandchild.  I really don't think that Emma Ryland is fit to raise that little boy.  I think that child would be much better off with Lucas."

 

"I agree.  Only question is, could Heather actually raise Emma's baby, and would it be fair to even ask her to?"

 

"Fairness has nothing to do with this.  The important thing is the well being of our grandson, Logan.  Emma lied about who that child's father was."

 

"Well, Jenna, to be perfectly honest, that's the same thing you did with Charlie,"  Bobby says.  "You named me as Charlie's father on her birth certificate, when Naldo was the real father."

 

"Oh, Bobby, that was different,"  says Jenna.  "The situations are not the same.  Naldo was an awful person, and I never wanted him to be  a part of Charlie's life.  Lucas is nothing like Naldo.  He's a good, kind, and caring man, just like his father."

 

"Well, I couldn't even begin to understand Emma's reasoning behind what she did."

 

"She's wicked, Bobby.  Wicked and crazy, just like Katherine.  You would have to be to do what she did.  As soon as Lucas is feeling better, I'm going to encourage him to seek custody of his child.  I don't even think Emma is capable of caring for him."

 

"I think that's going a bit far,"  Bobby says.  "Emma's done a pretty decent job of raisin' that baby up til now.   But I do agree with you on one thing.......I think Logan would be better off with Lucas and Heather than with Emma."  Bobby returns his gaze out the window.  

Ewing Oil....

  Sally buzzes Christopher's office.   "Yes, Sally?"  He says.

 

"Christopher, there's a Gavin Murray here to see you."

 

"Gavin Murray?  Oh, yes, that's Courtney's brother.  Send him in."

 

A few seconds later, Gavin walks into the office.  "Christopher, thanks for seeing me,"  he says.

 

"Sure, man, no problem.  Have a seat.  Would you like a drink?"

 

"No, thanks, man."

 

"So what brings you here?"  Christopher asks.  

 

"I was just wondering, that offer you made me that day you came by to see Courtney, when you said you could help me with a job.  Did you really mean it?"

 

"Yeah, sure I did."

 

"Well, since I'm gonna be staying in Dallas for the foreseeable future, I figured I'd better get a job and start earning my own way."

 

"Well, unfortunately, we don't have anything open here at Ewing Oil, but, I think I may be able to help you.  Are you good at working outdoors?"

 

"Outdoors?"  Gavin asks.

 

"Yeah.  We're actually looking for another ranch hand at Southfork, that's my family's ranch over in Braddock."

 

"Yeah, I've heard of it.  A ranch hand, huh?"

 

"So how about it?"  Christopher asks.  "You interested?"

 

"Yeah, sure, why not?  As they say, beggars can't be choosers, right?  Yes, I am definitely interested."

 

"Okay, well, good.  Listen, I was gonna be leaving in a few minutes to head home to Southfork for lunch.  My Dad is bringing my brother Lucas home from California today, so I wanna be there when they arrive. Give me just about five minutes to finish some paper work here, and you can ride to the ranch with me.  And we'll stop by the hotel so you can get a change of clothes."

 

"Sure,"  Gavin says, nodding his head.   Gavin's face displays his disappointment at the job Christopher has in mind for him.  "A ranch hand?"  He says quietly, under his breath.  

The Barbara Davis Hagman Center, Fort Worth....

 Dylan is sitting in his room at the Hagman Center writing, when someone knocks at his door.  "Come in," he says.

 

A young man opens the door.  "Dylan, you have a visitor."

 

"A visitor?  Who is it?"

 

"Actually, they told me not to tell you.  They wanna surprise you."

 

A look of curiosity comes over Dylan's face.  "Hmmm, okay, thanks Tony.  I'll be right there."  Tony nods, then leaves the room.   After he's gone, Dylan stands to his feet, walks over to his mirror and looks at himself, curious as to who his mystery visitor is.  

 

Meanwhile, Conner is pacing around in the visitation room down the hall.  He walks to the window and looks out into the garden.  Dylan comes to the door and he is surprised to see his brother.  "Conner?"  

 

"Hey,"  Conner says, turning around to face him.  

 

"When Tony told me I had a visitor, you're about the last person I expected to see."

 

"I know.  Dylan, you look great.  You look clean, and healthy."

 

"Thanks.  I am.  Physically, I feel better than I have in a long time.  So, what are you doing here?"  Dylan asks.  "I thought you wanted nothing more to do with me, after the way I screwed up your life."

"Really?"  Dylan asks with a slight smile.  "Well, that's great.  I'm really happy for you, Conner.  I'm glad that you at least won't have to pay for my mistakes."

 

"No, Dylan, you don't understand.   The charges against BOTH of us have been dropped."

 

"What?"  Dylan asks.  "Against both of us?  You mean......"

 

"Yes.  Dylan, you still have the misdemeanor charge, but the felony drunk driving charges have been dropped.  You're free and clear.  When you get out of here and come home, you can start fresh, without a felony on your record."

Dylan smiles.  "Oh my God, I.....I don't believe it.  Conner, how?"

 

"John Ross Ewing of all people."

 

"John Ross?"  Dylan asks.

 

"Yeah, John Ross pressured the Braddock D.A. to drop the charges."

 

"But, John Ross hates me.  He hates BOTH of us.  Why on Earth would he ever get the D.A. to drop the charges?"

 

"Who knows?  But I'm not complaining."

 

"Wow,"  says Dylan.  "Then, it's over.  This whole nightmare is over."

 

"Yeah, it's over, brother,"  Conner says as he and Dylan embrace.

Ewing Oil....

 Sue Ellen is working at her desk when Sally buzzes her office.  "Mrs. Ewing, your husband is here to see you."

 

Sue Ellen smiles.  "Thank you, Sally.  Send him in."  She stands from her desk and walks over to the door as Catlin comes in. 

 

"Hello, darling," he says, kissing her.

 

"Hi, sweetheart."

 

"I came by hoping to take my gorgeous wife to lunch,"  Catlin says.

 

"Lunch sounds wonderful,"  says Sue Ellen.  

 

"Good, so what are you in the mood for?"

 

"Hmmmm........I think I'm in the mood for Italian."

 

"I was hoping you'd say that, because I'm craving Italian myself,"  says Catlin.

 

"Did you meet Eric at the clinic?"  Sue Ellen asks.

 

"Yes, I did.  We both provided a DNA sample, and they said we could have the results as early as day after tomorrow."

 

"That's wonderful.  I know how anxious both you and Eric are to find out the truth."

 

"It's like I've said before, Sue Ellen, I already KNOW the truth.  Eric Love is my son, I feel that every time I'm around him.  And all you have to do is look at the kid.  Now tell me, who does he look like?  A Ewing, or a Love?"

 

"He definitely looks like a Ewing."

 

"Exactly.  I only wanted this test for Eric's sake,"  Catlin says.  

 

Sue Ellen smiles.  "Well, enough talk about DNA tests.  Let's get out of here and get some lunch, I'm starved."

 

"After you, Mrs. Ewing,"  Catlin says, opening the door for his wife.  He and Sue Ellen leave together.

Southfork....

 Bobby drives his car through the gate at Southfork and comes to a stop in the parking area.  Bobby, Jenna, and Heather get out of the car then Heather helps Lucas out.  

 

"Sure is good to be home,"  Heather says.  

 

"And good to be bringing Lucas home,"  says Jenna.  

 

Lucas looks around the ranch.  "Son, are you okay?"  Bobby asks.

 

"I'm fine,"  Lucas replies.  "Just.......all the way home I've been wracking my brain trying to remember what happened the other night.  Why I was at Falcon Crest in the first place when that fire started."

 

"Lucas, don't try and force yourself to remember right away,"  Bobby says.  "I'm sure it'll come to you in time."

 

"I hope so.  It's so damned frustrating."

 

"DAD!"  Comes Michael's voice as he runs out of the house to greet his father, Lucy close behind him.  

 

"Hey, buddy,"  Lucas says, greeting the boy with a hug.

 

"Are you okay?"  Michael asks.

 

"Yeah, other than a mild headache, and a little hole in my memory, I'm fine."

 

"Good to have you home, Lucas,"  says Lucy.

"Thanks."

 

"Lucas, you must be tired after that plane ride,"  says Jenna.  

 

"Your mother's right,"  says Heather.  "You wanna go up and lie down?"

 

"Yeah, I think I do."

 

Christopher's car pulls into Southfork and comes to a stop beside Bobby's car.  Christopher and Gavin get out of the car.  "Well, look who's home,"  Christopher says, walking over to Lucas.  "Welcome home, little brother."

 

"Thanks, Chris.  It's great to be home."

 

"Everyone, I'd like for you to meet Gavin Murray,  Courtney's younger brother.  Gavin, this is my father, Bobby Ewing.  My brother Lucas.  His wife Heather and their son Michael, my cousin, Lucy Ewing, and Lucas's mother, Jenna Wade."

 

"Hey, man,"  Lucas says, shaking Gavin's hand.

 

Bobby looks at the young man and smiles.  "Gavin?  So you're Phyllis's son?"

 

"Yes, sir, I sure am,"  Gavin replies.  

 

"Well, it's very nice to meet you.  In fact, we have met before, when you were about a year old, but I'm sure you don't remember that."

 

"No, sir, I'm afraid not."

 

"Dad, Lucas, I'm hiring Gavin on as a new hand here at the ranch."

 

"Really, well welcome to Southfork,"  Bobby says.

 

"Thank you, Mr. Ewing.  I appreciate the chance."

 

"Gavin, come with me and I'll show you around and introduce you to some of the other hands,"  Christopher says.

 

"Alright.  It was nice to meet all of you."

"Nice to meet you, too, Gavin,"  Heather says.  

 

Gavin smiles, then walks away with Christopher.

 

"Well, he seems nice,"  Heather says.  

 

"Yeah, and cute, too,"  says a smiling Lucy.

 

"He's a little young for you, don't you think, Lucy?"  Jenna asks as the group heads to the house.

 

A few minutes later, Christopher and Gavin arrive at one of the horse barns at Southfork, where two ranch hands are working.  "Hey, Buck,"  Christopher says.

 

"Well, hi, there, Christopher,"  replies Buck, a man of about fifty. "What brings you out?"

 

"I want you to meet Gavin Murray.  He's my wife Courtney's brother.  He's gonna be working with you guys around here."

 

"Gavin, nice to meet ya,"  Buck says, shaking the younger man's hand.  

 

"Yeah, same here,"  Gavin says as two more hands walk up to the barn, including Ben, the young hand Ray had brought over from his ranch a few days earlier.  Gavin looks at him with a hint of recognition.

 

"Boys, this is our new hand, Gavin,"  Christopher says.  "Gavin, this is Hank, Brett, and Ben."

 

"Welcome to Southfork,"  Hank says.  

 

"Listen, you boys show Gavin around, teach him the ropes.  Gavin, I'll be up at the house for a while.  Just come up or give me a call if you need anything."

 

"Thanks, Christopher, I will."

 

"Alright, I'll see you later,"  Christopher says, then walks away.

 

"So, Gavin, where ya from?"  Brett asks.

 

"Well, I was born in Dallas, but I grew up mostly in Houston,"  Gavin replies as he and Ben continue to exchange looks as if the two know each other.  

 

"Hey Buck, if you don't need me here, I'm gonna go on and start loadin' that hay up on Section 10,"  Brett says.

 

"Okay, you go ahead."

 

"Buck, can I see you for a minute?"  Another one of the hands says.

 

"Yeah, sure.  Gavin, excuse me.  I'll be back."

 

"Sure, take your time,"  Gavin says as the older man walks away.  Gavin looks at Ben, who is busy cleaning some saddles.  After a brief pause, Gavin walks over to him.  "Well, never thought I'd see you here."

 

"Same,"  says Ben.  "What the hell are you doin' here, anyway?"

 

"I could ask you the same question.  How'd you end up here, at Southfork? And how long have you been here?"

 

"Few days.  I was workin' at the next ranch over.  But they needed help here,"  Ben says.  "But you never answered my question.  How come you're here?  At Southfork of all places?"