EPISODE 185 - Heir Apparent

 "Jeremy Wendell,"  Shawn says, coming face to face with his grandfather in an apartment in Dallas.  "What do you want with me?"

 

"I want to get to know my only surviving grandson,"  Jeremy replies.  "And perhaps you and I could help each other out."

 

 

Shawn looks at the old man, unsure of how to feel or how to respond, and wondering what it is Jeremy wants from him.  "How so?"  He asks.

 

"I made your brother my sole heir.  I'd hoped that Tripp would carry on my legacy, and build Westar into the super power among oil companies that it once was.  But Tripp betrayed me.  And now that your brother's gone, that leaves you.  I've made a new will, Shawn, naming YOU as my sole heir."

 

"Me?  Your sole heir?  And what about my mother, your daughter?  Or have you forgotten her yet again?"

 

"Sharon would never take a dime from me, but, I trust that you would make sure that she's well taken care of and would never want for anything."  Jeremy stands from his seat and walks over to his grandson.  "The authorities have frozen some of my assets.  A bank account containing the total sum of $75 million.  But, fortunately, that's only a drop in the bucket of my REAL fortune.  My other assets are in secret Swiss bank accounts and that is what you will one day inherit........more than half a billion dollars, Shawn, plus, all of my Westar stock, which I am prepared to turn over to you very soon."

 

"Why me?"  Shawn asks.

 Lucas is standing in one of the stables at Southfork that afternoon looking out the rear door of the building when Heather walks in.  "Hey there,"  she says.

 

"Hey."

 

"Whatcha doin'?"

 "I was just watchin' Michael ride his new horse,"  Lucas replies.  

 

Heather looks out and sees her son on his new horse.  She smiles..  "He sure loves that animal."

"Yeah, he does,"  Lucas says, watching his son.  "It's amazing how fast he took to riding.  He's a real Ewing."

 

"Hey, now, I'd like to think he inherited some of that from MY side of the family,"  says Heather.

 

"Just look at him, Heather.  Our son.  Sometimes, even now, I still can't get use to having you and Michael in my life.  I look at Michael and I just can't believe that handsome boy is my son.  And I have another son, too, Heather.  Logan is my son, and it kills me knowing that he's being raised by a woman like Emma.  Heather, if I get out of this mess Emma's gotten me into........somehow, I have to get my son away from her.  There's no way in hell I'm gonna let Emma Ryland raise my child, especially after what she's doing to me........to US.......now."  Lucas turns to his wife, then walks over to her.  "I'm gonna fight these charges, Heather.  I never assaulted Emma."

 

"Lucas, I KNOW that,"  Heather says.  "I know that you are NOT capable of doin' somethin' like that."

 

"As for the fire, I still have no memory at all of that night, but I don't believe for one second that I started that fire at Falcon Crest."

 

"Lucas, of course you didn't.  Emma Ryland is a liar.  She lied about you beating her up, and she lied about that fire."

 

"If only I could remember what happened that night, then I could prove I didn't start that fire.  Heather, somehow, I get this feeling that Emma may have been responsible for starting the fire."

 

"But, that doesn't make any sense, either,"  Heather says.  "Lucas, Emma may be a lot of things, but an arsonist and killer? Her child was in that house."

 

"I know, and you're right, it doesn't make sense,"  Lucas says.  "But then again, Emma Ryland could be capable of anything.  Look at what she's doing to my life.  Anybody who could accuse someone of arson and assault could be capable of anything.  That's why I've got to fight these charges as hard as I can and get my child away from her....... any way that I have to."  Lucas turns and walks away from Heather and out of the stables, leaving Heather worried and afraid of where this entire mess was going.

Sharon Smith's apartment building....

A car pulls into the parking lot of Sharon Smith's apartment building and comes to a stop.  Inside the car, Jeremy Wendell's henchman, Kenneth, removes the blindfold from Shawn's eyes, then takes off the handcuffs.  "See, kid?"  Kenneth says.  "I told you I wasn't gonna hurt you.  I'll be in touch with you in a couple of days for your answer.  Until then, think long and hard about the proposition your grandfather made to you.  You accept and you'll be a very, VERY rich and powerful young man."

 

"But at what cost?  My soul?"  Shawn asks.

 

Kenneth looks at him and smiles.  "Selling your soul aint so bad, kid.  Your grandfather is a very rich man.  And, even now, he has a hell of a lot of power and influence."

 

"He's a criminal who's hiding out from the cops."

 

"He's a man who can make you........or break you, Shawn.  Think about it.  Would you rather be Jeremy Wendell's heir, the majority stockholder in Westar Oil, one of the largest oil companies in the southwest at the age of 18?  Or would you rather refuse your grandfather's offer and continue to be what you are now.......a nobody?"

 

Shawn looks at him.

 

"Go on, get out,"  Kenneth says.  

 

Shawn opens the passenger door on the car and starts to get out.  

 

"Hey, kid,"  Kenneth says.  Shawn pauses and looks at him.  "Think long and hard about what you have to gain, or lose here."

 

"I don't have to think about it,"  Shawn says.  "I can give you an answer right now.  My answer is yes.  You go back and tell my grandfather that I'll do it.  I'll be his heir.  I'll sell my soul.........for the right price."

 

Kenneth looks at Shawn and smiles.  "Smart boy.  Only one thing.  You ever think about double crossing old man Wendell or going to the cops..........then you'll wish you were dead."  Kenneth continues looking at the young man, and laughs sadistically.

 

 

 

 

 

this.  Be right back,"  he says, getting up from the table.  He walks away from the patio and answers his call.  "Jay, what's up?"  He listens for a moment as Jay speaks on the other end of the line.  A worried look comes over Lucas's face as he listens to what his attorney is telling him.  "I see.  Yeah, I know.  Yeah, Jay.  Thanks for calling.  Alright, I'll talk to you soon.  Bye."  Lucas ends the call and slips his phone back into his pocket.  

 

Heather walks up to him.  "Lucas, is anything wrong?  What did Jay want?"

 

Lucas turns to her.  "I have a preliminary hearing on Friday, to enter my plea.  And the D.A. is pressing for a speedy trial, which means my trial could start in a couple of weeks.  I'd hoped before then I'd have some breakthrough in my memory.  But if I can't remember what happened the night of that fire.........then I might just have to stand trial for two crimes I know I didn't commit.  I'm scared,Heather.  I'm REAL scared."

 

Heather puts her arms around her husband and embraces him.

An office in downtown Dallas....later....

 Pamela and Justin step off the elevator in an office building in downtown Dallas later that morning.  They head down a hallway until they come to the door of the law offices of Paul McCain, Attorney At Law.  Pamela pauses.  

 

"You okay, darlin'?"  Justin asks.

 

Pamela sighs.  "No, not really.  I'm really dreading this, the reading of Tripp's will."

 

"Y'know, Pamela, I don't think that I should go in there with you.  It prob'ly wouldn't look like, me attendin' the readin' of the will of the man I'm accused of murdering."

 

Pamela nods.  "Maybe you're right.  Tripp's mother and brother will be here, not to mention his Aunt Tracey, and, you're right.  As much as I need your support in there, it would probably be best if Tripp's family doesn't see you." 

 

"Okay,"  Justin says.  "I'll wait out here.  I'll be here for you when you come out."

 

Pamela looks at her watch.  "Almost time. I guess I'd better go and get this over with."

 

"Hey, remember......whatever happens, I love you, Pamela Rebecca Barnes."

 

"And I love you, Justin Randall Ewing."  Justin smiles and kisses Pamela. 

 

She returns his smile, then, bracing herself, she walks in.  A few seconds later, she walks into an office where Afton, Tracey, Sharon, and Shawn are waiting along with attorney Paul McCain.  

 

"Well, it's about time you got here,"  Sharon Smith says.

 

"You must be Pamela,"  McCain says.

 

"Yes, that's right.  I'm sorry if I'm late."

 

"You're not, you're right on time.  Please, have a seat."

 

"Thank you,"  Pamela says, taking a seat beside Afton.  "Mom, what are you doing here?"

 

"I have no idea, honey,"  replies Afton.  "I got a call from Mr. McCain requesting that I be here for the reading of Tripp's will."  

 

"Can we get on with this, please?"  Shawn asks.

 

"Shawn!"  Says Sharon.  

 

"Alright, now that everyone is here, we can get started,"  Paul McCain says.  "I drew up this will for Tripp late last 

December, right after Christmas.  Soon after Tripp discovered that Jeremy Wendell was his grandfather. So here we go:  'I, Thomas McKay, Jr.,  a legal adult with an address at , being of competent and sound mind, do hereby declare this to be my last will and testament and do hereby revoke any and all wills and codicils heretofore made jointly or severally by me. I further declare that this Last Will & Testament reflects my personal wishes without any undue influence whatsoever.  At the time of this Last Will & Testament, I am unmarried and have one minor child, Hunter Thomas Carter McKay, born May 27, 2016.  I hereby nominate and appoint my Aunt, Tracey McKay, as Executor/Personal Representative of this Last Will & Testament. Should the aforementioned individual be unavailable, unable or unwilling to serve as Executor/Personal Representative when needed, then I nominate and appoint my mother, Sharon Smith, as the alternate Executor/Personal Representative of this Last Will & Testament.  Immediately following my death, the Executor/Personal Representative will be authorized to exercise all provisions of this Last Will & Testament and to use the assets from my estate to make necessary arrangements, without any unnecessary delay, for the payment of personal debts, obligations and funeral expenses'."  McCain stops reading and looks at the four people seated in front of him.  "This next section has to do with guardianship of Tripp's minor son.  'In the event I am the sole parent or legal guardian of my non-adult children at the time of my death, then I hereby nominate and appoint Tracey McKay, as legal guardian of my children.  Should the aforementioned individual be unavailable, unable or unwilling to serve as legal guardian when needed, then I nominate and appoint Afton Cooper as the alternate legal guardian of my children."

 

Sharon Smith gives Afton and Tracey an angry look upon learning that Tripp had entrusted the care of his son to them and not to her.  

 

McCain continues reading:  "After payment of all of personal debts, expenses and liabilities, I request and direct that my property be bequeathed as follows:  To my Aunt Tracey McKay, I give, devise, and bequeath the sum of ten million dollars, and 5 shares of stock in Westar Oil.  To my Aunt Tracey, I also give my undying thanks for everything that you did for myself and for my late brother Hunter while we were growing up.  You were like a mother to us.  To my younger brother, Shawn Smith, I give, devise, and bequeath the sum of fifty thousand dollars.  To my mother, Sharon Smith, I also give, devise, and bequeath the sum of fifty thousand dollars.  I give, devise and bequeath all of the remaining and residual property I have ownership in at the time of my death, whether real property, personal property or both, of whatever kind and wherever situated to my son, Hunter Thomas Carter McKay, absolutely and entirely. Should Hunter Thomas Carter McKay still be a minor at the time of my death, then I hereby appoint Hunter's mother, my former wife, Pamela Rebecca Barnes, as guardian over my son's inheritance until such time as my son Hunter reaches the age of 18.'"  McCain stops reading and looks at the group.  "Now, I 

won't get into all the particulars of Tripp's estate, because it's very complicated.  But, to make it short and simple, the remainder of Tripp's estate is valued at roughly two hundred and ten million dollars, including his remaining 13 shares of Westar stock.  Pamela, as trustee of your son's inheritance, you will control that Westar stock until such time as your son's 18th birthday.  That stock will guarantee you a seat on the Westar board of directors.  And that is pretty much it."

 

"That's IT?"  Asks an angry Sharon.  "My son's ex-wife gets control of almost his entire estate, after she divorced him, and his own mother only gets a measly fifty thousand?"

 

"I'm sorry, Mrs. Smith,"  McCain says.  "But you heard the terms of your son's will.  The bulk of Tripp's estate will go to his son, Hunter, and the child's mother will act as trustee of that estate."

 

"So this woman who treated my son so horribly basically gets almost his entire estate, with the exception of the ten million he left his aunt,"  Sharon says.

 

"I did NOT treat your son horribly, Sharon,"  Pamela says.  "It was the other way around.  Tripp left and divorced ME."

 

"Not without good reason, I'm sure."

 

"What the hell do you mean by that?"  Afton asks, standing from her seat.  "My daughter loved your son and was nothing but good to Tripp, but he treated her like garbage.  What did he do when Pamela needed him the most?  He abandoned her."

 

"How dare you speak that way about my son!"  Sharon says, standing to face Afton.  

 

"Mom, just stop it!"  Shawn angrily says.  "I know Tripp was your son, but he was a real bastard.  He never gave a damn about either one of us, and he showed us that before he died.  But a mere fifty thousand dollars out of an estate of over two hundred million........well, that should be all the proof you need of how much your precious son thought of both of us."  Shawn stands to his feet and quickly leaves the room. 

 

Sharon gives Afton, Pamela, and Tracey an angry look, then follows her son out of the office.

 

"God, I have no idea what my brother sees in that woman!"  Afton says.

 

 

 

 

Downtown Dallas....early afternoon....

 Emma is walking down Main Street in Dallas early in the afternoon, when she stops to look through the window of one of her favorite department stores.  As she is looking in the window, Lucas happens to be driving down the street.  Spotting Emma, he pulls his car into the nearest parking space.  Getting out of the car, he rushes over to her.  "Emma!"  He calls to her.

 

Hearing Lucas's voice, Emma turns, and seeing him coming toward her, she quickly tries to get away, but Lucas runs to catch up to her.

 

"Emma!"  He says, grabbing her by the arm and turning her toward him.  

 

"Lucas, why don't you just be on your way, man?  Leave Emma alone."

 

"Jimmy, you need to stay the hell out of this, okay?  This is between me and Emma.  And I'm gonna get to the truth.  Come on, Emma, I'm not leavin' here until you tell me the truth."

 

"I've already told you, YOU started that fire, now leave me the hell alone!"

 

"You're a lying little bitch!"

 

"Hey, that's enough!"  Jimmy says, stepping between Lucas and Emma.  "Lucas, you need to back the hell off and leave Emma alone."

 

Lucas looks at him.  "I don't believe this.  You're supposed to be my family, and you're taking HER side, after what's she's done to me!"

 

"I'm not taking anyone's side, but I'm not gonna let you harrass Emma on the street.  Besides, do you REALLY wanna go back to jail?  Because that's exactly what's gonna happen."

 

"Alright, I'll go,"  says an angry Lucas.  "But I know you're hiding something, Emma.  And I'm gonna get to the truth about that fire, and you can bet on that."  Lucas looks angrily at Emma, and at Jimmy, then turns and walks back to his car.  Emma and Jimmy watch as he gets into his car and drives away.  

 

"Jimmy, thank you,"  Emma says.  "I was so afraid, I didn't know what he might do.  Lucas gets crazy when he's angry."

 

"Yeah, well, I think he's got every right to be angry."

 

"I should call the police and have him picked up,"  Emma says, taking out her cell phone.

 

"No, you're not gonna do that,"  Jimmy says, taking the phone from her hand.  "He's gone, Emma.  He's not gonna bother you again.  But, it's probably a good thing I was walking back to my office this way from lunch."

 

"Well, yes, thank God for that.  You're a lifesaver.  Your cousin really scares me."

 

"Emma, I've always liked you,"  Jimmy says.  "And for that reason, I really hope you're telling the truth and that you're not just trying to screw up my cousin Lucas's life."

 

"Jimmy, I AM telling the truth.  Look, thank you for coming along when you did.  Can I do something to repay you?  Buy you a cup of coffee or something?"

 

"Thanks, but I'll have to take a raincheck,"  Jimmy says.  "I have to get back to the office right now."

 

"Okay, well thank you again."

 

"Bye, Emma,"  Jimmy says, walking away from her.  As he walks down the street, Jimmy begins to wonder about Emma Ryland.  And about Lucas.   He stops walking and turns around.  He watches Emma as she walks down the street away from him.  Could Lucas be right and could Emma be lying about everything?  Jimmy wonders to himself.

Dallas....afternoon....

 Shawn and Michelle McKinnon come out of Atomic Sushi Japanese Restaurant in Dallas that afternoon, both of them carrying a drink in a styrofoam cup.  "Well, I can definitely say I've had better food,"  Shawn remarks.

 

"Yeah, me, too,"  says Michelle.  "Oh well, consider it a lesson learned to never eat here again."

 

"Hey," Shawn says as he stops and turns around to look at the Bank Of America building towering in the background behind Atomic Sushi.  "Take a look at that," he continues, pointing to the building.

 

"Take a look at what?"

 

"At that.......that beautiful, majestic building, towering over the city."

 

"So?  It's just the Bank Of America building, isn't it?"  Michelle asks.

 

"Yeah, but it's a lot more'n that.  Inside that beautiful building is housed the offices of Westar Oil."

 

"Westar? The company your brother ran?"

 

"That's right, and the company I plan to be running soon."

 

"What?  Shawn, I don't understand.  I thought you said your brother only left you fifty thousand in his will."

 

"That's right, he did,"  Shawn says.  "A lousy fifty thousand dollars when that bastard was worth more than two hundred million."

 

"Then how do you plan on one day running Westar Oil?"

 

"Trust me, Michelle, I have a way,"  says Shawn.  "Let's just say that a large amount of Westar stock has fallen into my lap, and I plan to use that stock to get my foot in the door at the company."

 

"Well, if you can pull that off, I'd be VERY impressed,"  Michelle says.

 

"I'm gonna pull it off, Michelle.  THAT, I can promise you."

 

Michelle smiles.  "I love your ambition, Shawn Smith.  But I am curious.  Just how did you come by all that Westar stock, if your brother didn't leave it to you?"

 

"I'd rather not say right now,"  Shawn replies.  

 

"I see.  You don't trust me."

 

"No, it's not that at all.  Michelle, I'm working on something BIG here, and I wanna bring it to completion before I say anything more.  And, I also want you to share in this with me."

 

"Me?"  Michelle asks.  "So what exactly does that mean, Shawn?  That you really wanna be with me, and not with the virginal Ashley Beaumont?"

 

"Ashley who?"  Shawn asks.  "No, seriously, it's over between Ashley and me.  It's obvious she's interested in that guy Cole, and, in a way, I'm glad."

 

"Why?"  Michelle asks, putting her arms around him.  "Why me?  I thought you'd been hung up on her for months."

 

"I was.  But I need more excitement than Ashley could give me, and YOU, Michelle McKinnon, give me that excitement.  So I want you by my side when all my plans come together."

 

Michelle smiles.  "Then you got it.  I'm not going anywhere.  I've never met a guy quiet like you, Shawn.  You're so different from all the boring guys in Bay City.  None of them have any ambition beyond working retail or for their fathers the rest of their lives.  But you.........you're different. A young man with ambition.  Now I KNOW I made the right decision when I chose to move to Dallas."

 

Shawn smiles and kisses her.

Southfork....night....

"He's just mad because some kids at school were picking on him today,"  Jacob says.

 

"Picking on him?"  Lucas asks.  "Why?"

 

"They were talking about you.  About you being arrested and having a baby with another woman."

 

Lucas sighs.  He and Heather exchange worried looks.  

 

"Children can be so cruel sometimes,"  Krystina says.  

 

"I'd better go up and have a talk with him,"  Lucas says, standing to his feet as Jimmy walks in.  

 

"Evening, everyone,"  Jimmy says.

 

"Well, Jimmy, what are you doin' here?"  John Ross asks.

 

"Hi, Jimmy,"  says Bobby.  "Would you like to join us for dinner?"

 

"Thanks, Uncle Bobby, but, no, I already ate.  I came by to see Lucas.  Can we talk outside?"

 

Lucas looks at him.  "Yeah, sure.  Be right back," he says.  Lucas and Jimmy leave the room.  A moment later the two step onto the back porch. 

 

"Chilly night,"  Jimmy says.  "You can tell fall is in the air."

 

"I'm sure you didn't come over here to talk about the weather, so what do you want, Jimmy?"  Lucas asks.  "To tell me to stay away from your girlfriend again?"

 

"Emma Ryland is NOT my girlfriend.  Lucas, I wanna talk to you about Emma."

 

"Jimmy, if you're just here to defend that woman to me, I......."

 Justin wakes up in Pamela's bed the next morning and finds her gone.  Sitting up in bed, he looks around.  "Pamela?"  Receiving no reply, Justin gets out of bed and slips on his boxers.  A few seconds later, he walks into the living room, where he finds Pamela standing at the window looking out.  "Pamela?"

 

"Morning," she says.

 

Justin walks over to her.  "Darlin', why are you up so early?  One of the kids get you up?"

 

"No.  I was just.........I've actually been up since about 4."

 

"Why?  Couldn't sleep?"

 

Pamela sighs.  "No.  I tossed and turned and I didn't wanna wake you, so I came in here and watched some TV.  I watched an old Bette Davis movie.  I've always loved her, even when I was little."

 

"Sweetheart, what's on your mind?"

 

"Tripp's will,"  Pamela replies.  "All that money and Westar stock he left to Hunter, that I'm gonna have to oversee until Hunter turns 18.  That's a huge responsibility, and I'm not sure I'm up for it."

 

"Darlin', come on.  If ANYBODY is up for a challenge like that, it's you.  After all, you worked for your Daddy's comp'ny when he owned Barnes Global, and you also worked at Ewing Global.  Now you're worryin' about ownin' some stock in Westar?"

 

"Justin, don't you understand?"  Pamela asks.  "That stock gave me a seat on the Westar board, which means that I'll have to attend board meetings, stockholder meetings, and vote."

 

"Well, look on the bright side.......it's only for 16 more years,"  Justin says.  

 

"Justin, that's not funny,"  says an irritated Pamela.  "You just don't understand the kind of pressure this is gonna put on me.  Westar is about the last company in the world I wanna have anything to do with, especially not knowing who the next CEO is gonna be."

 

"Maybe the next CEO should be you,"  Justin says.

 

"Me?  Justin, what are you talking about?"

 

"With all that stock Tripp McKay left under your control, and with your business experience, you'd be a perfect candidate for CEO of Westar."

 

"I don't think I'd want that,"  says Pamela.  "Especially given the fact that two of my ex-husbands use to run that company.  All the drama, all the stress, the constant fighting that comes with running a big oil company."

 

"I understand.  It was just a thought,"  Justin says as the doorbell rings.  

 

"Who could that be?"  Pamela asks.  "It's just a little after 8 o'clock."

 

"Why don't you go find out while I go get some clothes on,"  Justin says.  He gives Pamela a quick kiss, then goes back into the bedroom to get dressed.  

 

Pamela goes to answer the door and finds their early visitor is Jay Smithfield.  "Jay, good morning.  What are you doing here so early?"

 

"Morning, Pamela, is Justin here?"

 

"Yeah, he's getting dressed.  Come in."

 

Jay walks into the apartment and Pamela closes the door as Justin returns to the living room dressed in blue jeans and open shirt.  "Jay, what's goin' on?"  He asks, buttoning his shirt.

 

"Justin, I know it's early, and I'm sorry if I disturbed you, but, I wanted to tell you this in person."

 

"I get the feelin' I'm not gonna like the sound of this,"  says Justin.  "From the look on your face, it can't be good news."

 

"I got a phone call earlier from  the assistant D.A.  Jury selection on your trial begins today, Justin."

 

"Jury selection?"  Pamela asks.  

 

"Yeah,"  says Jay.  "Which means Justin, that, your trial could begin by the end of this week."

 

A look of worry comes over Justin's face.  Pamela walks over and embraces him.  Justin's worst fear is about to be realized very soon.

Ewing Oil....later....

  John Ross is working at her desk at Ewing Oil later that morning when Sly buzzes his office.  "Yeah, Sly?"

 

"John Ross, your brother-in-law, Adam Carrington is on line one,"  Sly says.

 

"Adam Carrington?  Now what the hell could HE want?"

 

"I don't know, he didn't say."

 

"Thank you, Sly, I'll take it,"  John Ross says.  Picking up his phone, he presses a button to take the call.  "Adam,  

What can I do for you?"

 

"Good morning, John Ross.  I'm calling about a business proposition I would like to make to Ewing Oil, and to you.  Could we possibly meet this week?"

 

"A business proposition?  This wouldn't happen to be about those offshore leases off the coast of California, now would it?"

 

"As a matter of fact, it would.  John Ross, Ewing Oil partnering with ColbyCo on this venture would be VERY profitable for both of our companies, and for us personally.  I'll be in Dallas in a couple of days on some business, and to drop in and say hello to Krystina.  Could we meet while I'm in town?"

 

"A couple of days?"  John Ross asks.  "So that'd be Thursday?"

 

"Yes, that's right."

 

"Alright, Adam.  I'm curious to hear what you have to say.  I'll meet with you.  Just give me a call when you get to town and I'll tell you when and where."

 

"Thank you, John Ross, and I can promise.....you WON'T regret this."

 

"Uh-huh.  Talk to you, then."  John Ross puts down his phone.  "Won't regret this, huh?  I better not."

A cafe in downtown Dallas....later....

 Jimmy and Emma walk out of a small cafe in downtown Dallas early in the afternoon, each carrying a mocha latte.  They take seats across from each other at a table on the sidewalk outside.  "Jimmy, thank you for the latte,"  Emma says.  

 

"Sure, no problem."

 

"I was very surprised to get your call asking me to meet you."

 

"Well, I wanted to see how you were doing, especially after that little scene with Lucas yesterday."

 

"I was shaken at first, but I refuse to let Lucas upset me or control my life."

 Michael is walking down the hall at Braddock Elementary that afternoon when he is approached by two other boys.  "Well, look who it is,"  one of the boy says.  "Michael Ewing.  Hey, Ewing, your daddy beat up any more

women this week?"

 

"Shut up, Casey,"  Michael says.

 

"Well, just listen at him,"  the boy says.  "What are you gonna do, Ewing?  Hit me?  Go ahead.  I'd love a chance to beat your ass."

 

"He's probably chicken,"  says the other boy.  

 

"Yeah, like his daddy," the first boy, Casey, says.  "His daddy's a coward who beats up on women."

 

"I also heard he started a fire,"  says the second boy.  

 

"What's the matter, Mikey?"  Kasey asks.  "Got nothin' to say?"

 

"Hey, leave him alone!"  Jacob says, walking up to the boys.

 

"And what if we don't?"  Casey asks.  "What are you gonna do about it?  Huh, Reed?"

 

"Just leave my cousin alone," Jacob says.

 

"You wanna make me?"  Casey asks.  "I'd beat the crap outta both of you."

 

"You're welcome to try,"  says Jacob.

 

"Come on, Casey," the second boy says.  "It's not worth it."

 

Casey looks at Jacob, then at Michael.  "I'll take care of you later, Mikey.  Later.  And you too, Reed.  I'm gonna get you both," Casey says, then he and his friend turn and walk away.  

 

"What a jerk that guy is,"  Jacob says.  "Don't pay any attention to him, Michael."

 

"Thanks, but I don't need you stickin' up for me,"  Michael angrily says.  "I can take care of myself."  

 

"Hey, I was only trying to help,"  Jacob says.

 

"Yeah, well DON'T,"  Michael says, then walks away.  Jacob watches Michael as he walks down the hall away from him.  

A bar in Braddock....that night....

 John Ross and Justin are drinking beer at a bar in downtown Braddock that night.  "I'm glad you took me up on my invitation tonight,"  John Ross says.

 

"Well, I appreciate the invite,"  says Justin.  "I needed to get out for a while."

 

"Yeah, and you and me hadn't spent nearly enough time together lately.  So have you called Cally and told her your trial's about to start?"  

 

Justin sighs.  "Nah, I didn't wanna worry her.  And, I didn't want her droppin' everything and rushin' back here to Dallas to be with me."

 

"Justin, you know your Mama's gonna wanna know what's goin' on,"  John Ross says.

 

"I know.  And I'll call her."

 

"So how about you, little brother?" John Ross asks.  "How're you holdin' up in all of this?"

 "To the Ewing brothers,"  Justin says as he and John Ross toast.  

 

"Justin, I hate to bring this up, but with your trial comin' up soon, there is somethin' we need to discuss,"  John Ross says.

 

"And what's that?"  

 

"Well, I, for one, don't believe that you killed McKay, even though you did have a motive.  But then again, so did more'n half of Dallas."

 

"I appreciate your confidence."

 

"So, since you didn't do the deed, and that tire iron used to bash McKay's head in was found in the trunk of your car, then obviously somebody DID set you up."

 

"Yeah and the big questions are who did it, and why me?"  Justin says.

 

"Well, it had to be somebody with access to your car.  Look, little brother, I'm not gonna beat around the bush here, I'm just gonna come right out and say it.  Have you ever thought about the possibility that it was Pamela who killed Tripp and planted the murder weapon in your trunk?"

 

"What?  Pamela?  No way!"

 

"She had motive,"  John Ross says.  "Her divorce from McKay was less than friendly, and he was threatenin' to take her son away from her because of her relationship with you.  If anybody had a motive to wanna see Tripp McKay dead, it was Pamela."

 

"John Ross, I want you to listen to me and listen good.  Pamela had NOTHIN' to do with Tripp McKay's murder.  And she sure as hell wouldn't try to frame me for the crime."

 

"Know that for a fact, do ya, little brother?"  John Ross asks.

 

"Yes, I do know that for a fact, because I know Pamela."

 

"I know her, too.  I was married to her, remember?  And the Pamela that I knew then was capable of just about anything.  You ever heard about what happened to Tommy Sutter?"

 

"Yes, I know all about Tommy Sutter,"  Justin replies.

 

"You know how he died?"  John Ross asks.

 

"Yes, I do.  It was an accident.  He was shot and killed when he attacked Pamela."

 

"That's right.  Pamela killed Sutter, and then covered up the crime."

 

"It was SELF DEFENSE, John Ross,"  Justin says.  "And I'm not gonna sit here any longer and listen to you run down the woman I love and accuse her of somethin' she didn't do."  Justin starts to get up.

 

"Alright, alright, don't get your boxers all in a wad,"  John Ross says.  "I'm sorry.  Just tryin' to figure this thing out, that's all."

 

''Well you can forget about Pamela,"  Justin says.  "Because I know she had nothin' to do with McKay's murder, or with that tire iron bein' in my trunk."

 

"Okay, fine.  I won't say another word about it,"  John Ross says, then takes a sip of his beer.

Southfork....

 

A sad Michael is standing on the patio by the pool at Southfork that night, staring out into the darkness and thinking about what had happened that day at school, and the previous day.  As Michael is deep in thought, Lucas comes out of the house and onto the back porch.  He looks at his son for just a moment, then walks over to Michael.  "You sure didn't eat much at dinner," he says.  "You were awfully quiet, too."

 

"Just wasn't hungry,"  the boy says.  

 

"I think I know what's bothering you.  Jacob told us that you've been havin' some trouble with a couple other kids at school."

 

"Jacob's got a big mouth."

 

"You wanna tell me what's goin' on?"  Lucas asks.

 

"Nope,"  Michael replies.

 

"Well, y'know, Michael, I can't help you if you won't even tell me what's happening."

 

"There's nothing you can do anyway."

 

"Nothing I can do?  Oh, I don't know about that.  I'm your dad, and dads are awfully good at fixing problems.  So what's goin' on, buddy?  Why are these other boys harassing you?"

 

"Jacob didn't tell you?  Can't believe he didn't tell you, since he told you everything else."

 

"He did say that it was because of me being arrested,"  Lucas says.  "Is that true?"

 

Michael nods.  "The kids are saying you beat up women and that you're a coward."

 

"Is that all they're saying?"  Lucas asks.

 

"No.  They're saying that you started a fire that almost killed someone.  And that you're a coward because you beat up that stupid Emma."

 

"Michael, do you believe that?" 

 

Michael turns to his father.  "I don't know.  I.........I don't wanna believe it."

 

"I didn't do it, Michael.  I never laid a hand on Emma."

 

"So she lied?"  Michael asks.

 

"Yes, she lied."

 

"But why would she do that?"

 

"I really don't know, exactly,"  replies Lucas.  "Emma is very angry with me right now, and sometimes when people are angry, they do things......bad things.  But Michael, I promise you, I did NOT hit Emma. I would never hit a woman, no matter how angry I got, and it's important to me that you believe that."

 

"I do believe you, Dad."

 

"Good.  Thank you,"  Lucas says.  

 

"Is Emma mad at you because of Logan?"  Michael asks.  "Because you're his dad?"

 

"Yes, that's part of it.  Michael, this whole situation is very complicated.  Emma and I have had a lot of problems.  It's very hard to explain so that you'll understand.  Usually when people do bad things to other people, it's because they're hurting inside, and they think that hurting someone else will make them feel better.  Maybe that's the case with these boys at school who are messing with you."

 

"I dunno, maybe,"  Michael says.  

 

"Listen, if these boys continue to bully and harrass you, I want you to tell me or your Mom, okay?"

 

Michael sighs and nods.  "Okay.  But don't worry, Dad.  I can handle them."

 

"Alright, but I DON'T want you getting into a fight.  When they start messing with you, walk away, or try to talk to them.  But, if they keep on messing with you, or if one of them touches you or hits you........you have my permission to defend yourself.  But I just don't want YOU starting the fight, is that clear?"

 

"Clear,"  Michael says.

 

"Okay.  It's gettin' late, so you go on upstairs and get ready for bed."

 

Michael nods.  "Okay."

 

"You finish your homework?"  Lucas asks.

 

"Yeah, before dinner."

 

"Good.  Come here,"  Lucas says, holding out his arms.  Michael gives his father a hug.  "I love you, Michael.  Don't ever forget that."

 

"I won't, Dad, and I love you, too.  Goodnight."

 

Lucas looks at his son and smiles.  "Goodnight, buddy."

 

Michael goes into the house.  After he's gone, Lucas lets out a deep sigh, worried about his son and how this whole mess with Emma is affecting Michael.

Southfork....two days later....

 John Ross and Krystina are coming down the stairs at Southfork two mornings later when John Ross's cell phone rings.  Taking the phone from his pocket, he looks at it.  "Krystina, darlin', you go on out to breakfast.  I gotta take this call.  It's business."

 

"Alright, but try not to be too long,"  Krystina says as she walks out of the foyer.

 

John Ross answers his call after she leaves.  "Adam, what's up?"

 

"John Ross, I'll be arriving in Dallas in about twenty minutes,"  says Adam Carrington, speaking from his company's private plane.  

 

"Alright, fine,"  says John Ross.  "Meet me at the restaurant at the top of Reunion Tower, one o'clock."

 

"I'll be there with bells on.  I look forward to talking business with you.  And John Ross....... trust me, you WON'T be disappointed."

 

"Well, we'll see,"  John Ross says.  "I'll see you at one."  John Ross ends the call and slips his phone into his pocket.  A

moment later, he walks onto the patio where Bobby, Christopher, Courtney, Jacob, Lucas, Heather, Michael, Lucy, and Alex are having breakfast.

 

"Morning, John Ross,"  Bobby says as his nephew takes his usual seat at the table.

 

"Mornin'."

 

"That was a quick business call," Krystina says.

 

"Yeah, just a call to set up a meetin' this afternoon."

 

"A meeting with who?"  Bobby asks.

 

John Ross looks at his uncle.  "Just a member of the Cartel, Uncle Bobby.  Jordan Lee III."

 

"You're getting involved in a deal with Lee Energies?"  Christopher asks.  

 

"Not sure yet'," John Ross says.  "Jordan just said he had a deal he wanted to pitch to me."

 

"Well, if you do decide to get involved in an oil deal with Lee or the Cartel, be sure you bring it to the rest of us to look over first,"  Bobby says.

 

"Still don't trust me, Uncle Bobby?"

 

"John Ross, it's not a matter of not trusting you.  We're all partners in Ewing Oil......you, me Christopher, and Sue Ellen.  We're all supposed to discuss deals involving the company with each other before getting involved in them or signing any contracts."

 

"Point taken,"  says John Ross.  "If this deal looks and sounds good, I'll be sure and bring it to you all."

 

"Alright, good."

 

"Jacob, Michael, you guys better hurry or you'll be late for school,"  Courtney says.

 

"Courtney, you sure you don't mind drivin' the boys to school this mornin'?" Heather asks.

 

"No, not at all.  I wanna do a little shopping in Braddock, anyway."

 

"I'm finished,"  Michael says, pushing his plate away from him.

 

"Me, too,"  Jacob says.  He quickly finishes off his glass of orange juice.

 

"Okay, well, get your stuff and let's go,"  says Courtney.  She and the two boys get up from the table and pick up their book bags.

 

"I'll walk you to your car,"  Christopher says, standing to his feet.  

 

"Bye, you guys have a good day,"  Lucy says as the boys walk away.  Courtney and Christopher follow.

 

"Sure is good to see those two working out their problems,"  Lucy says.

 

"Yes, it is,"  says Bobby.

 

"Now if only you and Ann could do the same."

 

"Well, Lucy, I don't think that's gonna happen,"  Bobby says with a sad tone.

 

Meanwhile, as Michael and Jacob get into Courtney's car, Christopher kisses Courtney.  "I'll try to be home early this evening,"  Christopher says to his wife.  "And ,maybe we can go out to dinner, just the two of us."

 

"I'd like that."

 

"What are your plans after you go shopping?"

 

"I'm going into Dallas to help my Mom go apartment hunting again."

 

"Phyllis still hasn't found a place she likes?"  Christopher asks.

 

"Not yet.  You know how picky she is."

 

"Well, tell ya what.  Why don't the two of you meet me for lunch, around 1:30 at the restaurant in Reunion Tower? My treat."

 

Courtney smiles.  "That sounds great.  I'm sure Mom would love to."

 

 Jeremy Wendell is pouring himself a drink in the elegantly furnished living room of his apartment later that morning when someone knocks on the door.  "Come in,"  Jeremy says.

 

The door opens and Jeremy's henchman, Kenneth walks in with a blindfolded and handcuffed Shawn.  Once in the room, Kenneth removes the blindfold from the young man's eyes, then takes off his handcuffs.  

 

"Y'know, this whole cloak and dagger bit is getting pretty old,"  Shawn says.  

 

"I'm sorry for the inconvenience, Shawn, but I have to take precautions."

 

"You don't trust me?  I'm not gonna tell anyone where you are and risk losing that huge fortune you promised to leave me when you die.  Not to mention all that Westar stock."

 

Jeremy smiles.  "Perhaps in time, you'll earn my trust.  And you can start right away."

 

"How?"  Shawn asks.

 

"I understand your brother's will was read a few days ago, and that Tripp left all of his Westar stock to his little boy, Hunter."

 

"Yeah, that's right,"  Shawn says.  "And Pamela is to control those shares, and Tripp's voting rights in Westar until Hunter reaches the  age of 18."

 

"Pamela could be a problem for us,"  says Jeremy.  "Which is where you come in."

 

"Me?  I don't know what you mean."

 

"I want you to get those shares away from Pamela, Shawn."

 

"Get them away from her?"  Shawn asks.  "And how am I supposed to do that?"

 

"Make an offer to buy them,"  Jeremy replies.  "I'm willing to pay above market value for those shares."

 

"Come on.  Pamela knows I don't have that kind of money, so how the hell am I supposed to offer to buy all those shares of Westar stock from her?"

 

"You're a very bright and resourceful young man, Shawn.  A trait you inherited from me.  I'm sure you'll be able to think of something.  Just as long as Pamela Barnes doesn't know that I'm the one buying those shares.  You just convince Pamela that she and her son will be better off without those shares and voting rights in Westar.  That life will be much less stressful without that kind of pressure."

 

"Okay, I'll think of something,"  Shawn says.  "So what happens if she agrees to sell to me, which I highly doubt."

 

"The stock I'm already prepared to give you, combined with those shares Pamela now has, will give you enough shares to make you the majority stockholder.  And of course that means that you could force the board to install you as your brother's successor.  You would become the youngest CEO in Westar's history."

 

"Look, Jeremy, or Grandfather, or whatever you want me to call you, I don't know anything about running an oil company.  I just graduated high school last spring.  Do you REALLY think the board of directors would make ME their new CEO?  I'm only 19."

 

"Those shares of stock, as well as your brother's voting rights would leave them no choice,"  Jeremy says.  "And as for you not knowing anything about running an oil company, don't worry.  I'll teach you everything I know.  I will guide you in every decision you'll have to make.  And I'll make certain that Kenneth is by your side at all times."

 

"I get it now.  I'll be CEO in name only, but YOU'LL be the one actually running the company from behind the scenes."

 

Jeremy smiles.  "Yes, that's right, Shawn.  And in exchange, you will be one of the richest and most powerful young men in the state.  Anything you ever wanted will be yours for the asking."

 

"Alright, I'll do it."

 

"Fine.  I'll be in touch in a few days, after you speak to Pamela,"  Jeremy says.  "Now, Kenneth will take you home."

 

Shawn nods.  Kenneth once again handcuffs Shawn, then places the blindfold over his eyes.  As Jeremy pours himself another drink, Kenneth leads Shawn out of the room.  

Reunion Tower....afternoon....

"That's right.  I wanted to approach you with this because you're married to my sister.  Those offshore leases could mean a hell of a lot of money for both of our companies."

 

"Adam, I'm not real keen on doin' business with ColbyCo., and especially not with your mother, Alexis.  Not after that damned book she wrote about my father and Vanessa Beaumont."

 

"Well, that's all in the past, and besides, my mother has very little involvement in ColbyCo these days.  She's dabbling in numerous other enterprises that keep her pretty busy.  I am the president of ColbyCo, so this deal is all mine."

 

"Alright, so let's hear the particulars,"  John Ross says.  "I would've thought ColbyCo would partner with Denver Carrington on this, especially since your nephew L.B. is now runnin' that comp'ny."

 

"ColbyCo and Denver Carrington are fierce competitors, John Ross.  Not likely to do business anytime soon.  Very much like your company Ewing Oil, and Westar Oil here in Dallas."

 

"I see."

 

"I have here my proposal,"  Adam says, reaching down and opening his briefcase.  He takes out a file folder and hands it to John Ross.  "Just read that, and hopefully it will help you reach your decision."

 

Curious, John Ross takes the folder and opens it.  He begins reading.

An outdoor restaurant in Dallas....

 Pamela walks into St. Ann's Bar And Grille, an outdoor dining facility in Dallas that afternoon, where she spots Shawn seated at a table and eating a burrito.   She walks over to him.  "Pamela, thanks for coming,"  Shawn says, standing to greet her.

 

"I was curious when I got your call,"  Pamela says, taking a seat across from him.  

 

 

A waitress walks over to their table.  "What can I get for you, ma'am?"  The young woman asks.

 

"Umm, I'll just have a taco salad,"  Pamela replies.

 

"And to drink?"

 

"Diet coke."

 

"One taco salad and a diet coke, coming right up,"  the waitress says with a smile, and walks away.

 

"Well, I'm here, Shawn,"  Pamela says.  "What is it you wanted to talk to me about?"

 

 

''About those shares of Westar stock you have control of, thanks to my brother's will."

 

"What about them?" 

 

"Would you be willing to sell them?"  Shawn asks.

 

"Sell them?  Sell them to WHO?"

 

"To me."

 

Pamela looks at the boy in astonishment, then she lets out a slight laugh.  "I'm sorry, but, maybe I didn't hear you right.  It sounded like you asked if I would be willing to sell my son's shares of Westar stock to you."

 

"No, you heard right.  That's what I said."

 

"And just where would YOU get the kind of money it would take to buy those shares?  Tripp only left you $50 thousand in his will."

 

"Let's just say that I have the money.  So, would you be willing to sell?"

 

"This whole conversation is not only ridiculous, but a waste of time,"  Pamela says as she starts to get up from the table.

 

"Hey, wait a minute,"  Shawn says, grabbing her by the hand.  "Just sit down and hear me out."

 

Reluctantly, Pamela retakes her seat.  "What's this all about?"

 

"Like I said.......I want those shares, and I'm willing to pay above market value for them."

 

"Where would YOU get that kind of money?"  Pamela asks.

 

"That's not important."

 

"Yes, it IS important, Shawn.  Is this some kind of game you're playing with me?"

 

"This is no game, Pamela.  I'm dead serious.  All you need to know is that I have the money to buy those shares from you.  And I know what you're thinking.  That I'm just a kid and I don't know what I'm talking about, but don't dismiss me just because I'm young.  From what I hear, you were just about my age when you started working for your father's company."

 

"That's right, I was, but that was very different.  My father took over Wentworth Industries and turned it into Barnes Global, and then groomed me to take over for him one way.  But your father is dead, and your mother certainly doesn't have any money.  Tripp shafted both of you in his will.  Combined, the two of you only received a hundred thousand, and these shares of Wentworth stock are worth tens of millions of dollars.  So you tell me, Shawn......... if you're serious then where did you get the kind of money to make me this offer?  Unless........"  Pamela pauses for a moment, her mouth falling open in shock.  "Oh my God.  Of course.  Jeremy Wendell, your grandfather.  He's behind this, isn't he?"

 

"No."

 

"Don't lie to me,"  Pamela says.  "I've been around the block, Shawn, and I know how to spot a lie a mile away."

 

"What difference does it make to you, anyway?"  Shawn asks.  "Pamela, why would you wanna hang on to those shares?  Are you planning on putting yourself in the running to be Westar's new CEO?"

 

"Of course not."

 

"Then why hang on to them?"

 

"Because they aren't mine to sell.  Tripp left those shares to our son for his future."

 

Shawn laughs.  "His future?  Pamela, with the kind of money I'm willin' to pay you, Hunter would never have to worry about his future, and YOU would never have to worry about the stress of being on the board at Westar, or voting, or of someone else coming along and trying to get those shares from you.  You don't wanna sell because Tripp left those shares to Hunter?  Come on, Pamela.  My brother treated you like crap, and he abandoned you when you needed him the most.  You sell me those shares and you'll finally be free of Tripp McKay.  Nothing to tie you to him."

 

"Nothing except my son, who would wanna know one day why I sold his birthright."

 

"The money you'd be paid for the shares, put in a trust fund for my nephew would be a much better birthright than some Westar stock that's only gonna cause you problems for as long as you hold on to them."

 

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

 

"You know the oil business.  You've been around it for years.  You know how dirty and cutthroat it can get.  You really wanna get involved in that again?  I don't think you do.  I think you like your life right now, as a mother, and working for that record company."

 

"You don't know a damned thing about me."

 

"Oh, I think I do,"  Shawn says.  "Just think about it.  You could sell those shares, be free of my brother and of the oil business, or  you could hold on to them and always be under pressure when it came time for a vote or a board meeting."

 

At that moment, the waitress returns with Pamela's lunch.  "Here you go," she says.  "One taco salad and diet coke."

 

"Give it to Mr. Smith.  I've suddenly lost my appetite,"  Pamela says.  She gets up from the table.

 

"Think long and hard about what I said, Pamela.  I want that stock."

 

"Wrong.  Your GRANDFATHER wants that stock because he wants to control Westar again.  But you can tell Jeremy Wendell that he can go straight to hell.  And so can you."  Pamela turns and walks away.

 

"Damn,"  Shawn says with a sigh.  "Jeremy is NOT gonna be happy about this."

 

"You're right, he's not,"  comes a man's voice from behind him.

 

Shawn turns around and finds Jeremy's henchman, Kenneth standing there.  "What the hell are you doing here?  Spying on me?"  Shawn asks as the waitress walks away, confused by what is going on.  

 

Kenneth takes a seat across from Shawn.  "Of course I was spying on you."

 

"I don't appreciate being spied on."

 

"I don't give a damn what you appreciate,"  Kenneth says.  "Look, kid, your grandfather wants that Westar stock, which means he wants this done right.  I told Jeremy you were too young and stupid for this."

 

"I may be young, but I am FAR from stupid,"  Shawn says.

 

"I sure can't tell, by the way you handled your ex-sister-in-law.  In a day or two, call her again.  Arrange another meeting, and this time, be more persuasive.  Convince Pamela McKay to sell you those shares.  Jeremy wants them ..........at any cost and by any means necessary.  So if you're not up to the job, tell me, and we'll find someone else."

 

"No.  I'm up for it.  I'll get Jeremy those damned shares."

 

"Good boy,"  Kenneth says, standing.  "Don't screw up again, Shawn.  Your grandfather may be old as dirt, but he's still as ruthless and dangerous as he ever was, probably more so now.  And he doesn't like people who fail him the way your older brother did.  Sure wouldn't want what happened to Tripp to happen to you."  Kenneth smiles as he pats Shawn on the shoulder, then walks away, leaving Shawn nervous and afraid after Kenneth's ominous warning.

Reunion Tower....

Back at Reunion Tower's restaurant, John Ross puts down the papers he had been reading over.  "Well, John Ross?"  Adam Carrington says.  "You've had a chance to read over my proposal over lunch.  So what do you think?"

 

"I like what I see.  Your geology report on those offshore California tracts match mine almost perfectly, and I do like the terms of this proposal."

 

Adam smiles.  "So does that mean that Ewing Oil and ColbyCo can do business together?  That we can become partners on those leases?"

 

"I'm gonna have to think about this and get back to you on that,"  says John Ross.

 

"Alright, but John Ross, we're approaching a deadline.  Bidding on those offshore leases is in two weeks, so I'll need your answer as soon as possible."

 

"Don't worry, you'll have it."

 

"Good.  Now, I think that I'll give my sister a call and go out to that ranch of yours and see her and my new little niece."

 

"Fine.  Stick around and have dinner with us tonight."

 

"Thank you, I'd love to,"  says Adam.

 

Meanwhile, Christopher walks into the restaurant with Courtney and Phyllis.  "Doesn't look too crowded,"  Phyllis says.

 

"Nope, I guess we hit it at just the right time,"  Christopher says as a restaurant hostess approaches them.

 

"Good afternoon, Mr. Ewing,"  the young woman says.  "How many in your party?"

 

"Just three,"  Christopher replies.

 

"This way."

 

Christopher, Courtney, and Phyllis follow the hostess to their table.  Christopher spots John Ross and Adam.  "Hey, there's John Ross,"  he says.  "Umm, you two excuse me for a minute?"

 

"Sure,"  Courtney says.

 

Christopher walks over to John Ross and Adam's table.  "John Ross," he says.  

 

"Well, Christopher, what a surprise."

 

"I was about to say the same thing to you."

 

"Christopher, not sure if you remember him or not, but this is Krystina's brother, Adam Carrington,"  John Ross says.  "Adam, my cousin, Christopher Ewing."

 

"Christopher,"  Adam says, shaking hands with him.

 

"Adam, I actually do remember you from John Ross and Krystina's wedding.  It's nice to see you again.  What brings you to town?  You here to see Krystina?"

 

"Yes,partly, but I'm also here on some business for my company, ColbyCo."

 

"Oh, that's right, you're president of ColbyCo Oil,"  Christopher.  "Well, it's nice seeing you again.  John Ross, I'll see you back at the office this afternoon."

 

"Yeah."

 

"Christopher, nice seeing you again as well,"  says Adam.  "Enjoy your lunch."

 

"Yeah, you, too.  Bye,"  Christopher says, then walks away.  

 

"Damn, that's all I needed,"  John Ross says.

 

"Why, what do you mean?"  Adam asks.

 

"My cousin.  He could be a real problem if he suspects we were talkin' about those California offshore leases."

 

"But why?"

 

"Because my Uncle Bobby and my Mama have both made it clear they won't be doin' any business or gettin' involved with ColbyCo in anyway."

 

Meanwhile, Christopher returns to his table and takes a seat beside Courtney, across from Phyllis.  "Is everything alright?"  Courtney asks.  "You seem worried."

 

"I am,"  replies Christopher.  

 

"Why?"  Phyllis asks.  

 

"John Ross having lunch with Adam Carrington."

 

"Adam Carrington?"  Courtney asks.  "Isn't that Krystina's half-brother?"

 

"Yes, he is."

 

"Why would John Ross having lunch with his wife's brother worry you?"  Phyllis asks.

 

"Because Adam Carrington wanted Ewing Oil to partner with his company in an offshore venture in California.  But Adam's mother, Alexis Colby is......well, she made herself an enemy of my family's, and there's no way we would ever do business with her, or her company, ColbyCo.  I just hope John Ross isn't going behind our backs again."

Jeremy Wendell's apartment....later....

 "So, Pamela refused to sell to Shawn?"  Jeremy asks his henchman, Kenneth.  

 

"More like Shawn failed to convince her to sell," Kenneth replies.  "Mr. Wendell, I'm telling you.  Your grandson is simply too young and inexperienced to carry out this assignment.  IF you want this done right, then you're going to need someone else."

 

"I disagree.  I have every confidence that my grandson will pull this off."

 

"Mr. Wendell....."

 

"I don't want to discuss this further, Kenneth.  I've made my decision.  Shawn will be my heir, and he will be my key to regaining control of Westar.  Thanks to Katherine Wentworth and my stupidity in granting aid to her, I've been forced to alter my plans slightly.  Now, I have to pull the strings from behind the scenes, but Shawn will be my voice at Westar once he has control of those shares from Pamela, and once he is installed as the youngest CEO in Westar's history."

 

"And what if Pamela McKay still refuses to sell to Shawn?"  Kenneth asks.  "I don't even think she  took the kid seriously."

 

"Then he will have to try another approach.  If she still refuses to sell, then.........then perhaps Pamela will need a bit more persuading.  Failure is not an option, Kenneth.  I swore to myself a long time ago that I would one day regain control of Westar, and that I would use that power to destroy Ewing Oil and the Ewing family once and for all for what they did to me.  And I intend to see that through if it's my last act on this Earth.  Bobby Ewing and Katherine Wentworth got in my way, forcing me into hiding.  But I will accomplish what I set out to do, and I will do that through Shawn. He'll help me destroy the Ewings."

 

"And if he won't?  Your grandson is best friends with John Ross Ewing's kid.  He's close to the Ewings.  What makes you think he'll side with you over them?"

 

Jeremy looks at him and smiles.  "Because he's my grandson.  That boy carries my blood in his veins.  He's greedy and he's hungry.  Shawn wants money and power, and just like me, he'll do anything to get it."

 

Kenneth looks at Jeremy, skeptical that Shawn can be trusted to carry out their plans.

END OF EPISODE 185....