EPISODE 184 - 'S' Is For Seduction

 Lucas is sitting alone on the patio at Southfork on a warm Saturday morning, sipping a glass of lemonade and staring blankly at the shimmering blue water of the pool.  It had been a rough week for him, indeed, with his arrest for assaulting Emma, but thankfully, the judge had set his bail on the combined arson and assault charges at $200 thousand, and he was able to come home.  

 

Alex comes out of the house.  He heads toward his car, but, seeing his uncle alone on the patio, Alex pauses and watches Lucas for a moment, then walks over to him.  "Hey," he says.

 

"Oh, hey,"  says Lucas.  

 

"Lucas, how're you doing?"

 

"I'm hangin' in.  Glad to be home and out of that jail."

 

"Listen, man, I'm really sorry about what's going on.   And for what it's worth, I don't believe for a minute you did the crap Emma said you did."

"I came to see you because I heard about what you did to my daughter," Cliff replies.

 

"I didn't do anything to your daughter!"

 

"And you're a damned liar.  I just came from seeing Emma and she told me what you did. That you beat her up, and that you started that fire at Channing's house that almost killed Emma and my grandson!"

 

"Emma is the one who's lying," Lucas says.  "I never laid a hand on her the other day, and I sure as hell never would've set fire to a house my child was in."

 

"You're a EWING, and you would do ANYTHING if it suited your purporse, including murder!"

 

"Says the man who blew up an oil rig with his own pregnant daughter on it!"  Lucas yells.

 

"You sorry little punk, you need to get your ass kicked, and but GOOD!"

 

"You think you're man enough to do that, even at your age, then come on, give it a try!"

 

"Alright, hold on,"  Alex says.  "Man, you'd better leave."

 

"You stay the hell out of this!"  Cliff says.

 

"What's goin' on out here?"  Bobby asks, coming out of the house with John Ross, Krystina, and Heather.  

 

"Barnes, what the HELL are you doin' on this ranch?"  John Ross asks.

 

"Cliff, I want you off this property right now,"  Bobby says.

 

"Bobby, I'm not goin' anywhere until I give this punk son of yours a piece of my mind!"

 Ray, Donna, Conner, and Dylan walk into the Krebbs home that morning.  Dylan places his bags down in the foyer and looks around the house and smiles.  

 

"So how's it feel to be home, Dylan?"  Ray asks.

 

"Feels great."

 

"Well, it sure is great having you home,"  says Donna.  

 

"Come on, let's take your stuff upstairs,"  says Conner.

 

"In just a minute,"  Dylan says.  "First, I just wanna look around this beautiful house, and at the three of you.  I know that I caused you all a lot of pain.  I'm so sorry for that.  I'm gonna spend the rest of my life making it up to you, especially to you, Conner.  I almost ruined your life.  I don't think I could've lived with myself if you'd gone to prison for something that I did."

 

Conner smiles.  "Hey, all that's behind us now.  Let's just leave it in the past and move on."

 

"I can't do that,"  says Dylan.  

 

"What do you mean?"  Donna asks.

 

"I have to remember the pain I caused myself, all of you, and everyone else.  Because if I forget, then I'm liable to go down that road again, and that's the last thing in the world I want."

 

Ray smiles, then walks over and places his hand on Dylan's shoulder.  "I can't tell you how proud I am of you, Dylan."

 

"We ALL are,"  says Donna.  

 

"I think I'm gonna go up, unpack my things and, Conner, how'd you like to go riding?"

 

"Yeah I'd love it if you're up to it,"  Conner says.

 

"I am.  Been a long time since I've been on a horse."  Dylan picks up one of his bags, and Conner picks up the other.  Ray and Donna watch as the two brothers head up the stairs.

Clay's apartment....

 Clay is sitting alone in his living room, staring blankly at his television set, when his doorbell rings.  Clay ignores the ringing bell, and continues to stare at his TV, as if in a daze.  The doorbell rings a second, then a third time.  Finally, the visitor knocks on the door.  "Clay, are you home?"  Comes Ashley's voice from the hall.  "Clay, if you're home, please let me in."

 

After a few seconds, Clay gets up and slowly walks to the door and opens it.  

 

Ashley looks at him, surprised by his appearance, as Clay is unshaven, barefoot, shirtless, and looks as if he hasn't slept in days.  

 

"What do you want, Ashley?"  He asks.

 

"Can I come in?"

 

"Why?"

 

"Please, Clay."

 

"Sure, why not?"  Clay says.  He steps aside.  Ashley walks into the apartment, and he closes the door behind her.  "I've been calling and texting you for days."

 

"Yeah, I wasn't in the mood to talk to anyone."

 

"Clay, are you alright?"  Ashley asks.

 

"Why do you even care?"  Clay says, retaking his seat on the sofa.  

 

"Now what is THAT supposed to mean?"

 

"Ashley, look, we know the truth now,"  says Clay.  "James Beaumont wasn't my father, I'm not your brother, so you can stop pretending to care about what happens to me."

 

"Clay, I DO care.  I'm really sorry that things turned out this way.  I really mean that.  I was actually hoping that you were my brother."

 

"My whole life has been nothing but a lie,"  Clay says, fighting to hold back his tears.  "I was so damned sure that James was my father.  How could my mother have lied to me?"

 

"Clay, have you talked to your mother since the DNA test?"  Ashley asks.

 

"I tried to get in touch with her, but she's in Europe, traveling, seeing some old friends.  I can't reach her."

 

"You haven't even been in to your office in days, have you?"

 

"No.  What's the point?  I'm probably just gonna sell that company and leave Dallas."

 

"Leave?  Why?"

 

"Because the whole point of me coming here was to meet my father, and my family,"  replies Clay.  "Now that that's gone, there's really no point in me sticking around this town."

 

Ashley looks at the young man, her heart breaking for Clay.

 Ray, Donna, Conner, Dylan, and Matt are finishing dinner at the Krebbs home that night.   "Donna, that was absolutely delicious,"  Matt says.  "Just hit the spot."

 

Donna smiles.  "Well, thank you.  I'm so glad you're here tonight, Matt.  I just wish Margaret could've come with you."

"So did Margaret, but with Ethan fighting a cold, Margaret thought it best to keep him at home, but, we promise, we'll come back for a weekend visit just as soon as he's feeling better."

 

"That'll be great,"  says Ray.  "I wish both Margaret AND Heath were here."

 

"Yeah, speaking of Heath, how's he doing?"  Matt asks.

 

"He's just fine.  He's down in Galveston right now overseein' construction on that development project we're involved in."

 

"Well, that's great. And Dylan, it's really nice to see you home and doing so well, too."

 

"Thanks, Matt."

 

"Hey, why don't we all adjourn to the family room?"  Donna asks.

 

"Sounds good,"  Matt says.  The five get up from the table and head into the family room.  

 

"Matt, fix ya a club soda?"  Ray asks.

 

"Yeah, I'd love one.  Meanwhile, Donna, can I have a word?"

 

"Sure,"  she replies.  "You all go ahead and we'll be right in.  So what's up?"  She asks Matt after the others have left the dining room.  

 

"Late last evening I was in a meeting with the state planning commission,"  replies Matt.  "And we may have a tough fight on our hands since that permit was granted to the oil industry to increase production.  We also have several environmental groups who are VERY unhappy about that."

 

"I knew this would happen,"  says Donna.

 

"Listen, I hate to ask, but, Donna, I'm really gonna need you down in Austin next week.  I could use your influence with the planning commission, and to help quell the fears of some of the more vocal environmental groups that have been complaining about the increase in drilling across the state."

 

"Okay, when?"

 

"Monday."

 

"How long would I have to be in Austin?"  Donna asks.

 

"Probably for at least a week."

 

Donna sighs. "Matt, this is a really bad time for me to be going out of town for an extended period of time, with Dylan just coming home."

 

"I know, that's why I hated to ask,"  Matt says.  "But we REALLY need you.  Not only are you Railroad Commissioner, but you're also one of the most respected women in the entire state of Texas.  If anyone can help calm the waters until we can get that permit rescinded, it's you, Donna."

 

"Well, I do appreciate the confidence.  And, alright, if you really think I can help........I'll do it.  Ray itn't gonna be very happy about it, though,"  Donna says.

Southfork....the next day....

 Dylan is standing in the living room at Southfork the next afternoon, looking at the portrait above the fireplace of his great-uncle, Jock Ewing, a man he'd heard so much about.  Michael walks into the house from outside.  "Hi," he says.

 

"Hi,"  Dylan replies.

 

"Who are you?"  Michael asks.

 

"I'm Dylan.  And you're.......Michael, right?"

 

"Yeah.  You're Conner's brother, aren't you?"

 

Dylan smiles.  "Yes, I am."

 

John Ross walks into the room at that moment.  "Baxter," he says.  "When Maria told me somebody was here to see me, you're the last person I expected.  Michael, would you leave us alone, please?"

 

"Sure.  Nice meeting you, Dylan,"  Michael says as he walks past John Ross and leaves the room.  

 

"What the hell are you doin' here?"  John Ross asks.

 

"I need to talk to you," Dylan says.

 

"Nothin' you got to say that I wanna hear."

 

"Please, John Ross.  Look, it wasn't easy for me to come here like this.  But I need to say this."

 

"Okay, say what you gotta say and get out."

 

Dylan nods.  "I wanna thank you for dropping the charges against Conner and me."

 

"I didn't do that for you or for your brother. I did it because my son asked me to, so you can thank him.  If it were up to me, both you and Conner'd be sittin' in jail for a long, LONG time."

 

"Yeah, I know that."  Dylan says.  "But still........thank you."

 

"Okay, you said your peace, now you can leave,"  John Ross says.  

 

"John Ross, I know that you and I will never be friends."

 

"Oh, ya think?"  John Ross asks sarcastically.

 

"I've done some pretty terrible things to you.  Running you down with my car, and then, the accident last New Year's Eve with Alex.  What I'm trying to say is.......I'm sorry.  For everything.  I was sick, and........."

 

"And let me guess........now you're ALL better, is that?"  John Ross asks.  "All those demons that made you try to kill me and then almost kill my son are gone now, and you're a changed man."

 

"I have changed.  Being at the Center, and in therapy has taught me a lot.  One thing it's taught me is that I needed to own up to all the wrong I've done, and all the people I've hurt.  And that's what I came here to say.......I'm sorry for everything I've done and thank you for dropping the charges, especially the charges against Conner."  Dylan turns and starts to leave.

 

"Baxter,"  John Ross calls to him.

 

Dylan stops at the door and looks at John Ross.

 

"Maybe you have changed.  That remains to be seen.  But let me give you a little piece of advice.  Don't you ever get on my bad side again.  Because if you do, or if you EVER hurt anyone else I care about, you'll wish you HAD gone to prison compared to what I'll do to you."

 

Dylan looks at him for a few seconds.  He nods, then leaves without saying another word.  

Southfork....late afternoon....

 Michael and Jacob are tossing a football back and forth to each other late that afternoon on the back lawn at Southfork.  "When are you and your Mom moving back to Southfork?"  Michael asks.

 

"I dunno,"  replies Jacob.  "The hotel is alright, but I really miss Southfork, and my horse, and everybody."

Christopher and Courtney are walking by the stables and talking.  "I'm really glad you and Jacob are here today,"  he says.  

 

"Jacob misses Southfork, and you, and the rest of the family,"  says Courtney.  

 

"And what about you, Courtney?  How do you feel?"

 

"I miss you, Christopher, and Southfork.  I've never denied that."

 

"Then why not come home?"

 

"Because it's not that simple,"  Courtney says.  

 

"I know you keep saying that.  But Courtney, we haven't even really talked about our problems.  How are we ever gonna begin to fix our marriage if we don't ever talk about what's wrong with it?"

 

 

Courtney stops walking and turns to him.  "Because it's not that easy," she says.   "Christopher I have so much going on in my head right now.  And so much I need to work out myself."

 

"Does any of that stuff have to do with your brothers?" Christopher asks.  

 

"I don't wanna talk about them."

 

"Courtney, we HAVE to.  Sweetheart, I talked to Gavin.  He told me a little about your father's affair with Ben's mother.  And that your father left Phyllis for this other woman."

 

"Christopher, I just wanna forget that part of my life."

 

"Honey, don't you see?"  Christopher asks.  "You can't forget it because it's affecting your life now.  You harbor this resentment for Ben, a kid who had nothing to do with what happened between your parents.  And I see how that resentment is affecting you."

 

"I don't wanna talk about this,"  Courtney says as she turns and starts to walk away.

 

Christopher grabs her by the arm.  "Courtney, please," he says.  "Don't walk away from me again.  Honey, I can see that you're carrying around an awful lot of hurt.  I want to share that hurt with you."

 

Courtney begins to cry.  "Christopher, don't you see that you can't?  You just can't.  There are parts of my life that I'm just not ready to share.  The part that deals with my family, especially my father and brothers, is one of those.  Can you please just respect that?"

 

"Alright, I'll respect that,"  says Christopher.  "And, I'm here for you whenever you decide you're ready to talk about what's going on."

 

"Thank you.  And thank you, also, for giving Jacob such a great day."

 

"You know I love Jacob like he was my own.  I really miss the two of you, Courtney.  I wish that you've come home."

 

"Christopher....."

 

"Look, how about this.......if you won't move back into the main house with me, then, how about the cottage? It's small, but it's comfortable.  You and Jacob would be here at Southfork with the family."

 

"I really......I don't know,"  Courtney says.  

 

"It'd be the perfect solution for everyone, and it would also give us a chance to see each other.  Besides, school will be starting back in Braddock soon, and it'd be best if Jacob were back here.  And......Ben has gone back to work at Uncle Ray's ranch, so you won't be running into him here.  And if you like, I'll tell Gavin to stay out of your way."

 

"The cottage.......well, Jacob really does miss the ranch, and you. And as much as the two of them fought, he even misses Michael."

 

"Then, do it for Jacob,"  Christopher says.  "Move back to Southfork.  You can stay in the cottage for as long as you need to, until you're ready to move back into our bedroom."

 

"Alright,"  Courtney says with a nod.  "I'll move into the cottage."

 

Christopher smiles.  "That's great.  You've just made me a very happy man, and I know Jacob will be happy.  And I hope that soon, you'll be back in our bedroom."

 

"Let's take one step at a time,"  Courtney says.  

 

Christopher smiles.  "Okay, one step at time.  Why don't we go and tell Jacob the good news?"  He and Courtney begin walking back to the house.

Dallas Athletic Club....

 Ashley is lounging by the pool at the Dallas Athletic Club with Bridget and Michelle that afternoon while Alex and Shawn enjoy a round of golf on the course.  "Well, I guess the police have really closed the Brian Manning case,"  Bridget says.  

 

"Oh?"  Ashley says.  

 

"Yeah, Detective Jones called me this morning to tell me.  Their officially closing the case.  As far as the cops are concerned, Brian Manning's body was swept down the Trinity River, and who knows where it ended up.  Maybe it was even swept out to sea."

 

"That's gotta be kinda hard for you, and for Alex,"  Ashley says.  "The guy who kidnapped is dead.  He won't even get to face justice."

 

"Well, if you ask me, you should be glad the guy's dead,"  Bridget's sister Michelle says as she watches several handsome guys walk by the pool.  "If he were alive, you'd have to testify at a trial and everything.  At least with the guy dead, you don't have to go through that."

 

"That's true,"  says Bridget.  "Hopefully, Brian Manning is dead and burning in hell right now."

 

"Well, now, just WHO is that?"  Michelle asks, looking toward the bar.

 

The other girls look in the direction Michelle is looking.  "Who?"  Bridget asks.

 

"The hot guy over there,"  Michelle replies, pointing at Cole.   "Wow, he's a babe."

 

"That's Cole.  He's a lifeguard here,"  Ashley says.

 

"Well, excuse me, ladies,"  Michelle says.  "I'll see you both later."

 

"Where are you going?"  Bridget asks.

 

"I think I need a soda,"  replies a smiling  Michelle.  As Bridget and Ashley watch, Michelle walks over to the concession bar, where Cole is chatting with another guy.

 

"It's  AMAZING how different you and your sister are,"  Ashley says to Bridget.

 

"What do you mean?"

 

"You're so down to Earth.  So.......I dunno.....normal, and Michelle is......."

 

"Forward?"  Bridget asks.  "Crass?  Rude?"

 

Ashley smiles.  "You two don't always get along so well, do you?"

 

"No, not really.  Growing up, I was always the shy one.  Michelle was NEVER shy.  She was always better at most everything, but, I always got the feeling that I was everyone's favorite.  I think Michelle was jealous of that, and she tried to get attention by being the way she is.......flirty, forward.  It usually went over well with guys.  She had a lot of boyfriends back home in Bay City."

 

"Looks like she's not doing so well with Cole,"  Ashley says, looking over at the bar as she watches Cole walk away from Michelle.  Ashley smiles with satisfaction.

 

Bridget laughs.  "Wow, I can't believe she actually struck out."

 

Ashley smiles.  "Your sister doesn't seem like the type of girl Cole would go for."

 

"Oh?  You know him that well?"

 

"We've talked a few times."

 

Cole walks over to the two girls.  "Hi, Ashley," he says.

 

"Hi, Cole.  Cole Duncan, meet my friend, Bridget McKinnon."

 

"Hello, Bridget."

 

"Hi.  That was my sister that you were just talking to over there."

 

"Is she always so..........flirtatious?"  Cole asks.

 

"Always,"  says Bridget.  

 

"Well, I'm sorry, but, I think I may have offended her."

 

"That's perfectly alright.  It's about time someone  knocked her down a peg.  Excuse me, guys, I think I'll go and see how she's doing."  Bridget gets up and walks away.  

 

Cole takes a seat on the lounge chair beside Ashley.  "Your friend seems nice.  Her sister.........not so much."

 

"Yeah, they're very different.  So what'd you say to her?"  Ashley asks.

 

"She just came right up to me, and asked me out, point blank."

 

Ashley laughs.  "Michelle is nothing, if not direct."

 

"I still can't get over the fact that you're a Ewing,"  Cole says.

 

"I'm a Beaumont."

 

"Beaumont, Ewing, same difference.  I've heard a lot about your family my whole life."

 

"And yet you're still talking to me,"  Ashley says.

 

"Of course.  It's not every day I meet such a special and beautiful girl.  I'd be crazy to let you get away."

 

Meanwhile, Alex and Shawn return from their golf game.  "Boy I'm ready for a dip in the pool after that,"  Alex says.

 

"Yeah, me, too, bro,"  Shawn says.  Looking around, he spots Ashley talking to Cole by the pool.  His jealousy is immediately aroused.  He walks away from Alex and goes over to them.  "Ash," he says.  

 

"Shawn, you and Alex finished with your golf game?"

 

"Yeah, and not a minute too soon, obviously."

 

"What do you mean by that?"  Ashley asks.

 

Cole stands to his feet.  "Shawn, is anything wrong?"

 "Yeah, dude, YOU'RE what's wrong,"  Shawn says.

 

"Meaning what?"

 

"Meaning, this is like the second time I've seen you getting cozy with my girl.  You just stay away from her."

 

"Or what, dude?"  Cole asks.  

 

"You really wanna find out?"

 

"Yeah, I'd love to."

 

"Stop it!"  Ashley says, quickly standing between the two boys.  "Shawn Smith, first of all, what gave you the idea that I'm YOU'RE girl?  And second, I can talk to whoever I wanna talk to, WITHOUT your permission, so don't you ever tell anyone to stay away from me again!  Cole, why don't we get a bite to eat?"

 

"Sure,"  Cole says, looking at Shawn with a smile.  Shawn angrily watches as Ashley and Cole walk away.  

Renaissance Tower Food Court....the next morning...

 Sue Ellen and Catlin sit down to have breakfast in the food court at Renaissance Tower, the building that houses Ewing Oil, the next morning.  "You are wound up as tight as a drum this morning," Catlin says.  "And you didn't sleep well last night at all, did you?"

 

"No, I didn't,"  Sue Ellen replies.  

 

"You wanna tell me what's bothering you?"

 

Sue Ellen takes a sip of her coffee.  "It's Bobby and Ann.  I really thought those two would eventually patch things up and get back together, the way they've always done in the past, but, this time, I really think they may be beyond a reconciliation."

 

"I'm afraid so, too, especially now since Emma's accused Lucas of hitting her and of starting that fire at Channing's home."

 

"That little witch,"  Sue Ellen says.  "Emma Ryland has caused no end of drama and trouble ever since she came into our lives over five years ago.  She's hurt so many people, but I'd honestly hoped that she had changed, for Ann's sake."

 

"Do you really believe Lucas is guilty?"  Catlin asks.

 

"Of the fire......no, definitely not.  Lucas isn't capable of arson, especially of setting fire to a house his child is in."

 

"And what about of beating up Emma?"

 

Sue Ellen takes another sip of her coffee, then pauses before answering her husband's question.  "I certainly hope not.  But, in all honestly, I just don't know.  Lucas does have a volatile temper, and believe me, Emma Ryland could drive anyone to violence.  I can't count the number of times I've wanted to punch her myself."

 

"Poor Bobby,"  says Catlin.  "I can't even imagine how hard this must be for him.  For Ann, too."  He reaches across the table and takes his wife's hand.  "And for you."

 

"For me?"

 

"Yes.  You're torn between Bobby and Ann, two people you consider family.  That's got to be hard."

 

"It is,"  Sue Ellen says with a nod.  

 

"Sue Ellen, why don't you and I go away for a few days?"  Catlin asks.

 

"Go away?"

 

"Yes.  Maybe day after tomorrow, Wednesday, we take the rest of the week off, and maybe go down to the Southern Cross until Sunday?"

 

Sue Ellen smiles.  "That does sound very tempting."

 

"Then let's do it.  Here we have this ranch down in San Angelo that Dusty Farlow left you in his will, a ranch that we planned on keeping as a vacation getaway, and we never even use the place.  So what do you say?"

 

"Alright.  I say we go down to the Southern Cross for a few days."

 

"That's great,"  says Catlin.  "Well, meanwhile, I do have to get to work this morning.  C.J. and I have a very important meeting at 9 and I have to prepare."

 

"I'd better get upstairs to my office, too,"  Sue Ellen says.  "I have a full schedule today."

 

"Just make sure you clear your schedule from Wednesday on,"  Catlin says standing.  

 

"I will,"  she says as they kiss.  

 

"I love you.  Have a good day."

 

"I'll see you this evening,"  Sue Ellen says.  She watches with a smile as her husband walks away from her, then exits the building.  Sue Ellen finishes her breakfast sandwich, then takes her coffee, and heads from the food court to the escalator to take her up to the main floor lobby.  As she gets off the escalator in the lobby, John Ross enters the  building.  

 

"Good mornin', Mama,"  John Ross says, greeting his mother with a kiss on the cheek.

 

"Good morning, John Ross.  You're certainly in a good mood this morning."

 

"I have reason to be.  I got a meetin' this mornin' with Brandon Harwood to discuss a real important deal."

 

Sue Ellen sighs.  "Brandon Harwood.......Holly's son?"

 

"Yes.  I know you don't like Holly, but remember, she itn't runnin' Harwood Oil anymore, her son is."

 

"And he's probably a chip off the old Harwood block."  Sue Ellen says.  "John Ross, just be careful when dealing with them.  I don't trust Holly or her son."

 

"Don't you worry, I got my eyes wide open,"  says John Ross.  "Besides, this deal itn't the only reason I'm happy this mornin'."

 

"Oh? Dare I ask what the other reason is?"  

 

"Well, word has it that Clay Beaumont might be gettin' ready to sell his comp'ny and go back to wherever the hell he came from."

 

"Sell his company?"  Sue Ellen asks.  "But, he just took that company away from Cliff Barnes and Brad Stone.  Why would he be selling it now?"

 

"Because the very thing that he came to Dallas for has fallen through.  You haven't heard the news?"

 

"What news?"

 

"Clay took a DNA test, and it turns out he's not James's son after all,"  John Ross replies.

 

"What?  You're kidding."

 

"I kid you not.  So, in his depressed and dejected state, he's thinkin' about sellin' Stevens-Beaumont Oil, and, since that comp'ny should've been Ewing Oil's in the first place, I plan to be first in line to buy it up."

 

"What makes you think he'll sell to Ewing?"  Sue Ellen asks as she and John Ross get on the elevator.  

 

"You let me worry about that,"  John Ross says.  "I got a plan."  The elevator doors close.

An office in Dallas....

 "Bobby, I really do wish that you would reconsider this decision,"  says Bobby's friend, attorney Lou Rosen, talking to Bobby in his law office that morning.  "Divorce is so final."

 

"Lou, don't you think I know that?"  Bobby asks.  

 

"Is there no way at all that you and Ann can work out your differences?"  Lou asks.

 

Bobby sighs.  "No, it duttin' seem so at this point.  Things have gone too far."

 

"This decision to divorce have anything to do with Lucas's arrest for assaulting Ann's daughter Emma?"

 

"That's part of it, Lou.  But the big thing that pushed us to this point is the constant lies and secrets.  Ann keeping the secret that Lucas is Logan's father was the last straw,  She kept my son away from his child."

 

"Technically, Emma is the one who kept Lucas from his child, Bobby."

 

"Lou, the point is, Ann knew.  All that time, for more than a year, she knew, and she never said a word to me."

 

"Bobby, let me ask you something," Lou says.  "If Christopher or Lucas were to come to you with a secret that could change the lives of several people you care for, and ask you not to say anything to anyone, including Ann, would you?"

 

"I would never keep a secret like that from her,"  Bobby replies.  "Not if it involved her grandchild.  Look, Lou, I know what you're tryin' to do.  But it's no use.  Things have deteriorated too far between Ann and me.  So, will you represent me in this divorce, or do I have to find another attorney that will?"

 

"No need for that.  I'll represent you."

 

"Thank you,"  Bobby says.  

Brookriver Center, Dallas....

 Lucas is having a session with his therapist, Dr. Ryan Benson, later that morning.  "Ryan, I've been wracking my brain trying to figure out what happened the night of that fire at Falcon Crest.  But as hard as I try, it just won't come.  Why?  Why the hell can't I remember that night?" Lucas says as he paces around Ryan's office.

 

"I'm not sure, Lucas.  It could be that the trauma of that night is more than your mind can handle.  It also could be that the blow you received to the head had something to do with your memory loss,"  Ryan says.

 

"What am I gonna do?  If I could only remember what happened that night.  Only thing I do know about that night is that I didn't start that fire."

 

"There are a lot of unanswered questions about that night, Lucas.  And together, we'll find the answers."

 

 

"Well, I sure hope we can find the answers soon, Ryan, before I end up on trial for something I didn't do,"  Lucas says.  "I'm really scared, man.  I think I'm more afraid than I've ever been in my life."

 

"That's understandable,"  says Ryan.  "After all, arson and assault are two extremely serious charges."

 

"I feel like I'm living a nightmare."

 

"Lucas, I'd like for you to start coming in twice a week, at least for a while."

 

"Twice a week?"  Lucas asks.  "Why?"

 

"I think if we really work at this in our sessions, we'll be able to trigger your memory of that night."

 

"Yeah, but what if we do?  Even then, it's just my word against Emma's."

 

"But your remembering what happened the night of the fire will definitely have an impact on your case.   So are you willing to work with me to find the answers?"

 

Lucas lets out a deep sigh.  "Yes, Ryan.  Yes, I NEED to know what happened that night.  I have so many unanswered questions.........why was I at Falcon Crest that night?  Why didn't anyone see me there?  And just how the hell did that fire start?  I need the answers to these questions, Ryan.  No matter what those answers may be."

Southfork....afternoon....

 Phyllis is helping Courtney unpack her things at the cottage at Southfork that afternoon.   "Y'know, I'm really gonna miss you and Jacob,"  Phyllis says.  

 

"Well, Mom, you could always come and stay here with me, since Jacob has decided he wants to stay in the main house."

 

"A appreciate the offer, sweetheart, but, no thank you.  I do, however, need to start looking for my own place."

 

"So, that means you've decided to stay in Dallas?  Make it your permanent home again?"  Courtney asks.

 

Phyllis smiles.  "Well, I have every reason to stay in Dallas now.  You and Jacob are here, and now your brother Gavin is here, too."

 

"I hear my name?"  Gavin says as he comes to the slightly open door of the cottage.

 

"Hello, sweetheart,"  Phyllis says.  

 

Gavin walks into the cottage.  "Hi, Mom.  Sis."

 

"Gavin,"  Courtney says, greeting her brother in a cold tone of voice.

 

"So what were you guys talking about, and did I interrupt anything?"  Gavin asks.

 

"No, you didn't interrupt anything,"  replies Phyllis.  "I was just telling your sister that I think it's time I started looking for an apartment.  I've grown pretty tired of living in that hotel."

 

"Well, so you're staying in Dallas?"  

 

"As I was telling Courtney, you two are here, and my grandson is here.  So, I have every reason to stay in Dallas, and NO reason to go back to Houston."

 

"Mom, that's awesome,"  says Gavin.  "Looks like the Wapner and Murray clan is gonna make Dallas our new home."

 

"Yes,"  says Phyllis.  

 

"Well, I'd best get back to work,"  Gavin says.  "By the way, sis, since you're moving back to Southfork, does that mean that you and Christopher are close to workin' things out?"

 

"My marriage is none of your business, Gavin,"  Courtney says.

 

Gavin smiles, then turns and walks out.

 

Phyllis looks at her daughter.  "I really wish that you would try and get along better with your brother.  Honey, he IS trying."

 "Mom, I'm sorry,"  Courtney says.  "But until Gavin gives me a reason, I still don't trust him.  Especially not with Ben Murray here.  Somehow, I don't think it's a coincidence that Gavin and Ben both ended up here."

Stevens-Beaumont Oil....

 John Ross walks into Stevens-Beaumont Oil that afternoon.  "Well, good afternoon,"  he cheerfully says to Clay's secretary.  

 

"Good afternoon.  May I help you?"

 

"Yes, I'm here to see your boss, Clay Beaumont."

 

"Do you have an appointment?"  The secretary asks.

 

"No, I don't, but, what I need to see him about is important, so could ya tell him John Ross Ewing is here to see him?"

 

The secretary smiles.  "I'll let Mr. Beaumont know you're here."  She buzzes Clay's office.  "Mr. Beaumont, John Ross Ewing is here to see you."

 

"Thank you,"  Clay says.  A few seconds later, Clay comes out of his office and looks at John Ross.  "What the hell do you want?"

 

"Well, I heard through the grapevine that there's a possibility that you might be wantin' to sell your little comp'ny here, so, I thought I'd make you a real generous offer."

 Ashley walks into the living room at Justin's home to answer the ringing doorbell.  She is surprised when she opens the door and finds Shawn.  "What are you doing here?"

 

"I came to talk to you."

 

"I think you said all that needed to be said yesterday."

 

"Ashley, wait,"  Shawn says.  "Just hear me out."

 

Ashley pauses, then nods.  "Alright, come in."

 

Shawn walks into the house.  

 

Ashley closes the door.  "Okay, so talk,"  she says.

 "I'm sorry about yesterday.  I know I was a real jerk," Shawn says.

 

"Yeah, you kinda were, Shawn."

 

"Ash, it's just that, whenever I see you with that guy Cole, it does somethin' to me.  It makes me jealous.  I know that we aren't officially in a relationship, but, we HAVE been seeing each other for a while now, and I just kinda thought that, well......."

                                     

 

Bobby's car drives up to the Krebbs home late that afternoon and comes to a stop in front of the house.  Getting out of the car, Bobby walks onto the front porch and rings the doorbell.  A moment later, Dylan opens the door.  

 

"Oh, hi, Bobby,"  Dylan says.

 

"Hello, Dylan, how are you?"

 

"Just fine."

 

"Is Ray home?"

 

"Yeah, he is.  Come in."

 

"Thanks,"  Bobby says, walking into the house.  

 

Ray comes into the foyer.  "Well, hey, Bob."

 

"Hi, Ray."

 

"What can I do for ya?"  Ray asks.

 

"I was kinda hopin' we could talk."

 

"Yeah, sure thing."

 

"Well, you guys excuse me,"  Dylan says.  "I have some stuff to do in my room."

 

"It's good to see ya, Dylan,"  Bobby says.

 

"Thanks, you, too,"  Dylan says as he heads up the stairs.  

 

"Well, he seems to be comin' along real well,"  says Bobby.

 

"Oh,yeah, he is.  Come on in, Bob."  Ray and Bobby walk into the beautiful family room of the house.  "You want a

 drink, Bob?"  Ray asks.

 

"I would LOVE one."

 

Ray walks to a cabinet, takes a key from his pocket, and unlocks it.  "Since Dylan's been home, we keep all the liquor locked up, and there's only one key," he explains as he proceeds to fix himself and Bobby a drink.

 

"That's a smart idea."

 

"Somethin' on your mind, Bob?"

 

"Yeah, Ray, there's an awful lot on my mind,"  Bobby replies.  "I've been drivin' around all day tryin' to clear my mind, but it didn't work.  So, I kinda needed someone to talk to, and I was hopin' to talk to you and Donna."

 

Ray hands him his drink.  "Well, I'm afraid you're gonna have to settle for jusy me.  Donna's in Austin on business for a few days.  You wanna tell me what's botherin' you?"

 

"I went to see an attorney this morning.  I filed for divorce from Ann."

 

"Oh, Bob, I'm real sorry to hear that.  I sure had hoped that you and Ann would be able to work through this."

 

Bobby sighs.  "Well, this had been comin' for a long time, Ray.  And we reached the point of no return when Emma accused Lucas of assaulting her and of starting that fire at Falcon Crest.  I know my son, Ray.  Lucas never would've done those things."

 

"Of course not.  I'm just sorry that you and Ann had to get caught up in this mess and that it made things worse."

 

"Even though Emma's accusations are what pushed our marriage over the edge, it was Ann who started this whole thing when she lied to me,"  Bobby says.  "If she had just told me the truth about Logan, none of this mess would've happened in the first place.  So even though Emma is partly to blame for everything, Ann made her own choices in this."

 

"And there's no chance at all of savin' your marriage?"  Ray asks.  "Bob, you and Ann have been married for what?  13 years?"

 

"Yeah, 13.  A lot longer than I was married to Pam.  And no, Ray.  I really don't think that there's any hope for Ann and I to ever get back what we had."

 

"Bob, I don't want this to sound like I'm oversteppin' here, but, how does Jenna fit into all this?"  Ray asks.  "I know you been spendin' an awful lot of time with her over the summer."

 

"Damn it, why does everybody question my friendship with Jenna?"  Bobby asks.  "And that's all it is as far as I'm concerned, Ray, a FRIENDSHIP.  Look, does it bother you that I've been spending time with Jenna?"

 

"No, of course not.  Jenna and I have been divorced for 3 years now, and I'm happily married to Donna.  But it's you I'm worried about, and Jenna, too.  You and I both know that Jenna's never gotten over her feelins' for you.  If you don't feel the same way about her, then maybe you should let her know that up front, if ya hadn't already."

 

"Jenna knows that there's nothing between us, at least not now."

 

"What do you mean, at least not now?"  Ray asks.

 

"Ann and I are gonna be divorced.  After that, I don't know what's gonna happen.  Hell, I dunno, maybe I should give a relationship with Jenna another chance.  We were almost married twice, and if it hadn't been for Katherine Wentworth and Naldo Marchetta, Jenna and I would've gotten married 34 years ago, and who knows, we might still be married today.  We just never had a chance because of all the outside influence.  Maybe now that we're older, and more settled, Jenna and I really can make a life together."

 

Ray lowers his head and nods, then looks at his brother.  "Bob, if that's really the case, if that's what you want, then ya know I'm all for it.  But just make sure you know what you're doin'.  Because I sure don't wanna see either you or Jenna get hurt in this thing again."

 

"Neither do I, Ray,"  Bobby says.  "Listen, thanks for the drink and for the talk.  And for listening."

 

Ray smiles.  "Hey, anytime.  Itn't that what big brothers are for?"

 

"Yes, yes it is.  Well, I'm gonna get outta here and head on home."

 

"I've got an even better idea,"  says Ray.  "Why don't you and I hit up one of the bars over in Braddock.  Get us some drinkin' done like we use to in the old days."

 

Bobby laughs.  "Ray, I don't think either of us could HANDLE drinkin' like we use to in the old days, but, we could sure give it a try.  At least until we reach our limits."

 

"You're on,"  Ray says.  

 

"And if you wanna bet I can still drink you under the table......."

 

"Hey, that sounds like a challenge,"  says Ray.  "A challenge I gladly accept, little brother."

 

"Okay then consider yourself challenged.  Been a long time since we did this,"  Bobby says as he and Ray leave.

Campus Cafe....evening

 Alex and Shawn are drinking coffee at the Campus Coffee House that evening as the sun begins to set on another day in Dallas, and Alex is attempting to cheer his friend up after Shawn's earlier meeting with Ashley.  

 

"Dude, I really thought Ashley and I had something special,"  Shawn laments.  "And, I'm sure we did until that Cole guy showed up."

 

"How much do you know about this Cole?"  Alex asks.

 

Shawn sighs.  "Nothing, really.  Just that his name is Cole Duncan and he works as a lifeguard at the Athletic Club.  Oh, and he also works as a waiter at Perry's."

 

"Then maybe we should fine out more about him.  Who he is, where he's from, that sort of thing."

 

"Yeah, I was thinkin' the same thing,"  says Shawn.  "If I can find out more about Cole Duncan, maybe there's somethin' there I can use to get rid of the guy."

 

"Well, you know what they say, great minds think alike,"

 

"Yeah.  So will you help me?"  

 

"Bro, you can count on me,"  Alex says.  "I'll do whatever I can."

 

"Awesome, you're a true best friend,"  Shawn says as Bridget and Michelle McKinnon walk into the cafe.  The two girls look around, spot Alex and Shawn, and walk over to them.

 

"Hey, sorry we're late,"  Bridget says.  "Traffic was a nightmare on the Expressway."

 

"It's cool,"  Alex says.  "Evening rush hour."

 

 

"Shawn, I didn't realize you were gonna be here, too,"  Michelle says.  "Alex never mentioned it."

 

"I didn't know Shawn would be joining us until a little while ago,"  says Alex.

 

"Yeah, I texted Alex with a problem, and he told me to meet him here so we could talk,"  Shawn says.

 

"Oh, well, what's the problem?"  Michelle asks.

 

"Just something I gotta work out on my own,"  Shawn replies.  "Well, guys, I'm gonna get outta here."

 

"Dude, no, come on,"  Alex says.

 

"Why are you leaving?"  Bridget asks.  "Join us.  We're gonna have a bite to eat, and then maybe go to a movie."

 

"Thanks, but, I'm really not feeling up to it tonight, but, definitely another time,"  Shawn says, standing to his feet.

 

"Sure I can't get you to change your mind?"  Michelle asks.

 

"Yeah, I'm sure.  Thanks, though.  You guys have a great night."

 

"We will.  Text me later,"  Alex says as Shawn walks away.  

 

"Is Shawn okay?"  Bridget asks.  "What was going on with him?"  

 

"He and Ashley had some sort of a fight, but he'll be okay,"  Alex replies.  "If there's one thing I know about Shawn, it's that he always lands on his feet.  They'll work it out."

 

"Good, I hope so."

 

At that moment, Michelle's phone vibrates, indicating an incoming text.  Taking the phone from her pocket, she looks at the screen.  She smiles when she sees that she has a text from Shawn.  She immediately texts him back.

Michelle smiles.  "Umm, you know what, guys?  I don't much feel like going to dinner and a movie tonight, so, I'm gonna let you two go on without me, and I'll take a raincheck."

 

"What?  Why?"  Bridget asks.

 

"My stomach is kind of upset."

 

"Well, we don't have to go to a movie,"  says Alex.  "We can do something else."

 

"No, you guys go on ahead and have fun.  Make it a real date night.  Besides, you know what they say......three's a crowd."

 

"Are you sure?"  Bridget asks.

 

"I'm sure."

 

"Well, what are you gonna do?"  

 

"Probably just go home and take an antacid, climb into bed, and read a good book.  You mind if I take your car?"

 

"No, of course not,"  Bridget replies. 

 

"Yeah, I can drop Bridget off at home later."

 

"Cool.  Alright, then, you two have fun, and don't do anything I wouldn't do."  Michelle gets up from her seat and quickly hurries out.

 

"That was weird,"  Alex says.  "What was that all about?"

 

Bridget sighs.  "What can I say, my sister's weird.  I just hope that text wasn't from who I think it was from."

Southfork....

                                                                                                                                John Ross's car drives up to Southfork that night and comes to a stop.  A couple of minutes later he walks into the den and pours himself a drink at the bar.  Krystina comes down the stairs and walks in.  

 

"Hey, darlin',"  he says.

 

"Good evening, my love,"  Krystina says, walking over to kiss him.  "You're a little late."

 

"Yep.  Meetin' with the Cartel went a little later than expected, but, I think I struck a deal with them."

 

"I'm glad to hear that."

 

"Where is everyone?"  John Ross asks.

 

"Well, it looks like it's just going to be us for dinner,"  Krystina replies.  "Bobby hasn't come home, Christopher and Jacob are having dinner with Courtney out at the cottage, Lucas and Heather went out to dinner with Jenna.  Alex went to the movies with Bridget and her sister.  And, I have no idea where Lucy is."

 

"I'm right here,"  Lucy says, walking into the room.  "Hi."

 

"Hi, Lucy,"  Krystina says.

 

"Wow, the house is so quiet tonight.  Where IS everyone?"

 

"Everyone is out,"  replies John Ross.  

 

"Oh, just gonna be the three of us for dinner, huh?"  Lucy asks.  "How cozy."

 

Maria comes to the door.  "Excuse me, Mrs. Ewing,"  she says.  "Dinner is ready."

 

"Thank you, Maria,"  Krystina says.  

 

"You're welcome, oh, and Miss Lucy, a registered letter came for you today."  Maria says.  "I put it on the nightstand in your room."

 

"Oh, okay, thanks,"  Lucy says.

 

"You're welcome,"  Maria says.  

 

"Well, I guess we should go to dinner,"  Krystina says.  "Oh, Maria, would you mind taking Little John up a bowl of ice cream?  He's not feeling well."

 

"Yes, Mrs. Ewing, I sure will,"  the maid says with a smile.

 

"Not feelin' well?"  John Ross asks.  "What's wrong?  That boy's not gettin' sick is he?"

 

"No, he just has a little sore throat.  I thought the ice cream might help soothe it."

 

"Maria, would you get the ice cream?"  John Ross asks.  "I'll take it up to him."

 

Maria smiles.  "Yes, sir," she says, then turns and walks away.  

 

John Ross, Krystina, and Lucy take seats at the dinner table.  "Lucy, how's your volunteer job at the hospital going?" Krystina asks.

 

"Goin' great.  The best thing about it is seeing the smiles on the kids' faces when you read them a story, or when you just sit and visit with them."

 

Krystina smiles.  "That's a wonderful thing you're doing.  And I'm sure one of the fringe benefits is that you get to see Mitch every day."

 

"Yeah, well, the job does have its perks,"  Lucy says.  

 

John Ross looks across the table at his cousin.  "Lucy, you interested in your ex again?  I thought he was datin' Shawn's Mama."

 

"Well, that relationship isn't going anywhere," Lucy says.   "Mitch would be better off without her."

 

Maria returns carrying an ice cream cone and a small bowl.  "Here you go, Mr. Ewing," she says.  "Ice cream for Little John."

 

"Thank ya, Maria,"  John Ross says.  Standing from his seat, John Ross takes the ice cream.  "I'll be back," he says, leaving the room.

 

"Y'know, Krystina,"  Lucy says.  "I may not always like the things John Ross does, or says, but, one thing I can give him props for is that he's a pretty terrific father."

 

"Yes he is,"  Krystina says.  "John Ross loves his kids more than anything."

Meanwhile....the nursery....

 

John Ross walks into the nursery upstairs carrying the ice cream cone and the bowl.  Walking over to baby Ellie's crib, he looks down at his daughter sleeping and smiles.  He gently touches the baby's cheek, then walks over to Little John's crib.  "Hey there, buddy," he says, putting the ice cream down on a table.

 

"Hi, Daddy,"  the child replies.  

 

"I heard you had a little bit of a sore throat,"  John Ross says, picking Little John up.  "Well, come over here.  Daddy brought ya somethin'.  How about some ice cream?"  The little boy nods.  John Ross sits him down in a chair and gives him the ice cream cone.  "Here ya go.  Now you eat that all up and it'll make your little throat feel better."

granddaddy and great-granddaddy would both be so proud to know that the name John Ross Ewing is bein' carried on into another generation.  And one day, you're gonna be workin' side by side with me at Ewing Oil, just like my Daddy did with his Daddy before him.  You, me, and Alex.  One day, son, that comp'ny is gonna belong to our branch of the family, and ours alone.......just the way it should be."  

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

A pond at Southfork....

 Shawn leans on the hood of his pickup truck, which is parked beside one of the ponds at Southfork.  He is tossing small rocks into the water, watching the ripples form in the moonlight.  After a minute, he takes his cell phone from his pocket and looks at the time, and at a recently received text.  He smiles.  Taking his shirt off, Shawn tosses it into the hood of the truck, then walks down to the water, where he removes his shoes, his socks, and unbuckles his belt.  Slowly, he unzips his pants and takes them off, stripping down to his underwear.  

 

Meanwhile, Michelle drives up in Bridget's car and comes to a stop near the pond.  She spots Shawn's truck down the path straight ahead of her, and gets out of the car.  She  

begins walking toward the truck, then spots Shawn by the pond.  Michelle continues slowly walking toward Shawn, looking at and admiring his well-sculpted body in the moonlight.  

His back to her, Shawn doesn't see Michelle at first, but then hears the sound of her footsteps approaching.  

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Slowly, he turns around to see the lovely young girl coming toward him in the moonlight.  

 

 

 

 

 

He smiles.  "Glad you came,"  he says.

 

"You think I wouldn't?"

 

"Not for a minute."

 

"Why on Earth did you wanna meet way out here?"  Michelle asks.

 Lucas, Heather, Michael, Alex, and Lucy are having breakfast on the patio the next morning when John Ross and Krystina come out of the house.  "Maria, I'll just have some coffee this mornin',"  John Ross says to the maid.  

 

"No breakfast?"  Krystina asks as she takes her seat at the table.

 

"Nope.  I got an early meetin' this mornin'," John Ross replies, Maria pouring him a cup of coffee.  "Hey, where's Uncle Bobby?"

 

"He was still asleep a little while ago,"  Lucas replies.

 

"Bobby still asleep?"  Lucy asks.  "Gee, that's not like him.  I hope he's not sick."

 

"He's not sick,"  says Heather.  "He didn't come in til real late last night."

 

Alex smiles.  "Maybe Uncle Bobby and Grandma had a hot date," he jokes.

 

"I'm sure as hell not sure that's a good thing,"  John Ross says as Christopher and Courtney walk up to the patio from the cottage, hand in hand.

 

"Not sure what's a good thing?"  Christopher.

 

John Ross looks at his cousin.  "That Uncle Bobby is gettin' so close with Jenna."

 

"Good morning, Courtney,"  Krystina says.

 

"Morning, everyone."

 

"Christopher, did you spend the night at the cottage last night?"  Lucy asks.

 

"Yes, yes, I did,"  Christopher asks.

 

"Well, that's great,"  says Heather.

 

"Are you and Courtney gonna get back together now?"  Michael asks.

 

Christopher smiles.  "We're........talking.  Trying to work things out."

 

"But taking it slow,"  Courtney says.

 

"Well, I think I can speak for everyone here when I say we sure hope so,"  says Heather.

 

"Sit down, you, two, and have some breakfast,"  Krystina says.  

 

"Yeah, I gotta get goin' to my meetin',"  says John Ross.  "Christopher, you comin' in to the office today?"

 

"Yes, John Ross, I'll be a little late, but I will be there," Christopher says.

 

"Good.  When you get in, drop into my office.  I got a deal I wanna talk to you and Uncle Bobby about, IF he makes it in today."

 

"Okay,"  Christopher says.  

 

Bobby comes out of the house at that moment, rubbing his right temple.  

 

"Well, look who decided to join us this mornin',"  John Ross says.  "I'll see you all later."

 

"I'll walk you to your car,"  Krystina says, getting up from the table.

 

"Where are you goin' so early?"  Bobby asks.

 

"Got a meetin'.  Bye," John Ross says, then he and Krystina leave.

 

"Dad, are you okay?"  Lucas asks.

 

Bobby pours himself a cup of coffee, then takes a seat at the table.  "I'm fine, thank you, except for a poundin' headache."

 

"Grandma kept ya out too late last night, Uncle Bobby?"  Alex asks.

 

"Actually, I wasn't out with Jenna last night, Alex,"  says Bobby.  

 

"Really, now?"  Asks Christopher.  "You were out with another woman?"

 

"No, for everybody's information, I went out with Ray last night and we did a little drinkin', that's all.  Donna's down in Austin for the week, so Ray had nothin' to do last night."

 

Christopher smiles.  "Probably not a good thing to do on a work night, Dad."

 

"What are you talkin' about?  Ray and I use to do this all the time."

 

 

"Yeah, but you were a lot younger then,"  Lucy says.

 

Bobby looks at his niece.  "Thank you, Lucy," he says.  "My head and my body are reminding me of my age this morning, I don't need you reminding me too."

 

Lucy holds back a laugh.  "Well, I gotta go, anyway.  I'll see you all tonight."  She gets up from the table and walks over to Bobby.  "Feel better,"  she says, kissing him on the cheek.  Smiling, she walks away.

 

Bobby takes a sip of his coffee.  He attempts a smile, but then grimaces in pain as he again rubs his throbbing temples.

Donna Love's home....

 Bridget knocks on the bedroom door of her sister Michelle at their grandmother's Dallas home that morning.  "Come in,"  Michelle says.  

 

Bridget walks into the room and finds her sister cheerfully humming while brushing her silky blonde hair.  "You're sure in a good mood this morning."

 

"I have every reason to be."

 

"Why?"  Bridget asks.  "Last night you said you weren't feeling well."

 

"I'm feeling MUCH better now,"  Michelle says.

 

"Yeah, I can see that.  Where'd you go after you left the coffee house?"

 

"I came home.  I told you I was."

 

"No, Michelle,"  Bridget says.  "You didn't come home after the coffee house.  If you did, you didn't stay here because you were gone when Alex dropped me off after the movie last night."

 

"Are you checking up on me, sis?"  Michelle asks.  "Trying to keep tabs on my comings and goings?"

 

"You went to meet Shawn, didn't you?"

 

"Why would  you think that?"

 

"Well, let's see.......Shawn left the coffee house in a hurry, a few minutes later you got a text, and then YOU high tailed it out of there.  Kind of adds up."

 

Michelle turns to face her sister and smiles.  "And what if I did?"  She asks.

 

"Michelle, Shawn is taken,"  says Bridget.  "He and Ashley are......."

 

"He and the virginal Ashley are nothing.  They're just friends, not even friends with benefits, can ya believe that?"

 

"That doesn't matter.  Shawn and Ashley have been seeing each other for a while now.  She REALLY cares for him."

 

"Then she should've shown him how much she cares, like I did last night,"  Michelle says.

 

"You had sex with him?"  Bridget asks.

 

"Yes, and it was incredible.  Best I ever had, in fact."

 

"Oh my God, are you kidding me?  Michelle, you took advantage of a bad situation.  Shawn and Ashley had a fight."

 

"Yes, they did.  A fight because Ashley the Virgin wouldn't give Shawn what he wanted.  So I did."

 

"Sometimes, I wonder how in the world you and I could possibly be twins,"  Bridget says as she turns and leaves the room.

 

"Yeah, I wonder the same thing!"  Michelle yells after her.  Once her sister is gone, Michelle walks back over to the mirror, looks at herself, and smiles with satisfaction.  

Ewing Oil....the lobby....

  John Ross walks into the lobby of Renaissance Tower that morning and as he walks toward the elevator, he is being watched by a man wearing dark glasses.  John Ross presses the elevator button.  After he steps on the elevator, the man who had been watching him also steps on.  John Ross quickly presses the button to close the doors.  

 

 

 Shawn comes out of his bathroom in the apartment he shares with his mother after taking a shower.  Walking over to his bed, he picks up a pair of boxer shorts and slips them on.  He then puts on his pants and shirt.  A couple of minutes later, he comes out of the front entrance of the building, unaware that a man of about 30 years of age is sitting in a car nearby and watching him.  As soon as Shawn steps out, the man dials a number on his phone.  Someone almost immediately answers.  "The boy just came out of the building,"  the man says to the person on the other end of the line.  He puts down his phone, gets out of his car, and walks toward Shawn.  As Shawn is about to get into his truck, the young man approaches him.  "Shawn Smith?"  He asks.

 

"Yes, I'm Shawn Smith."

"I need you to come with me, NOW, and don't make a scene,"  the young man says, revealing that he has a small  hand gun in his right hand.   A frightened Shawn looks down at the gun, wondering what this was about, and if he was being kidnapped.

 

"Let's go, Shawn,"  the man says.  Left with no choice, Shawn goes with the young man to his car.  "Hold on," the man says.  "Put your hands behind your back."

 

"What?"

 

"Hands behind your back."

 

Shawn does as the man says, and the man handcuffs his wrists.  "Say, what the hell is this?  Who are you?"

 

"Just get in,"  the man says.  After Shawn gets into the passenger seat of the car, the man places a blindfold over his eyes, further heightening Shawn's fear.  Once the man has secured Shawn's blindfold, he closes the passenger door, walks around and gets into the driver's seat.  "Don't worry, kid, I'm not gonna hurt you.  Not unless you give me a reason to."

 

"Look, can't you at least tell me what this is about and where you're taking me?"

 

"You'll find out soon enough, kid,"  the man says, then the two drive off.

A building in Dallas....later....

  An elevator opens into a room that looks like a large and elegantly decorated apartment in a building in Dallas.  A blindfolded and gagged Shawn is led by the young man off the elevator and into the apartment.  They proceed down a short hallway to a door, on which the young man knocks.  Another man, a tall, muscular man, opens the door and motions them in.  Shawn's abductor takes him by the arm and leads him into the room.  The muscular man leaves and closes the door behind him.  

 

"We're here,"  Shawn's abductor says to someone seated at a desk in a large chair, their back to Shawn and the young man.  He takes the handcuffs from Shawn's wrists, then removes the blindfold and gag.  

 

Shawn looks around.  "Where the hell am I?"  He asks.

 

As Shawn looks on, the person seated at the desk slowly turns his chair around to face his captive.  Shawn's mouth falls open in shock when he sees that the person is none other than his grandfather, Jeremy Wendell.

 

"Hello, Shawn,"  Jeremy says.