EPISODE 187 - Justin's Trial, Part 2

"Maybe not, but you sure hate my kind, as you put it the other day,"  Dylan says.  

 

"Look, Baxter, I did a lot of thinkin' about what you said.  I've spend so much of my life hatin' guys like you.  Rich.  Good lookin'.  The kind of rich boy that gets away with everything.  I guess it has a lot to do with these rich boys I use to know when I was a kid.  They were real bastards.  Use to think it was funny to tease and mess with kids like me."

"Ben, I'm sorry,"  Dylan says.  "But not everyone is like that."

 

"Yeah, maybe not.  Maybe you and your brother aren't so bad."

 

"Ben, can I ask you something?"

 

"I guess."

 

"Christopher Ewing's wife, Courtney, is your sister, right?"

 

"Half-sister,"  replies Ben.  

 

"Is that way you came here?"  Dylan asks.  "To be close to her?"

 

"No way.  I didn't even know my sister lived around here, or that she was married to Mr. Krebbs's nephew."

 

"Come on, Ben, that would have to be the biggest coincidence in the history of coincidences."

 

"Well, that's exactly what it was.  I didn't know Courtney lived here until my brother Gavin told me.  But enough talk.  We got a fence to put up.  Best get to work.  Only got a couple hours before it starts to get dark."  Ben walks past Dylan and goes to the truck he had driven out to the pasture.  Dylan watches as he begins to unload supplies from the bed of the truck.

George Allen Courthouse in Dallas....

 

"And when I asked Mr. Ewing if he wished to leave a message for Mr. McKay," Westar's receptionist, Carol Sherman, says as she testifies at Justin's trial, "His reply was.........tell your boss that Justin Ewing is looking for him, and when I find him, I'm going to rip his damned head off."

 

"Ms. Sherman, it would be fair to say that Justin Ewing was very angry that day, correct?"

 

"I would say he was more than angry.  More like, full of rage.'

 

"Objection,"  Jay says, standing to his feet.  "This witness cannot possibly know the state of mind of the defendant at that time."

 

"Objection sustained."

 

"I'll rephrase,"  says assistant D.A. Gail Copeland.  "Would you say that you were afraid of Mr. Ewing that day?"

 

"Oh, yes,"  Carol Sherman replies.  "He was so angry, he really scared me."

 

"No further questions."

 

"Mr. Smithfield?"  Judge Johnson says.  

 

"I have no questions for this witness at this time, Your Honor, but I reserve the right to recall her to the stand."

 

"Fine.  Miss Copeland, you may proceed."

 

"Your Honor, the State rests,"  Gail says.  

 

"Alright,"  says the Judge.  "Given the late hour, Mr. Smithfield, you will begin presenting the defense's case first thing tomorrow morning.  Until then, court is adjourned for the day."  The judge bangs her gavel, indicating the end of proceedings for that day.

 

As the crowd stands, Cally, Bobby, and Christopher walk over to Justin and Jay.  "Justin, are you alright?"  Cally asks her son.

 

"I'm fine, Mama,"  Justin replies in a nervous tone, his voice shaky.

 

"Jay, just how bad does this look for Justin?"  Bobby asks.

 

"Right now, things look about as bad as they possibly can,"  Jay replies.  "Those last few witnesses, and the murder weapon being found in Justin's car...........well, let's just say the only thing that could make the prosecution's case any better would be an actual video of Justin committing the murder, but, we're not licked let.  We still have OUR turn in court coming up tomorrow, and I have a few witnesses who might soften the blow the prosecution dealt us.  But Bobby, I have to be honest with you.  I may have to bring out some things about your family that could prove.......... embarrassing."

 

"I understand,"  Bobby says.  "You just do whatever you have to do to get my nephew acquitted."

 As Bobby looks worried, Christopher places a hand of reassurance on his father's shoulder. 

 "The defense calls Pamela Barnes McKay to the stand,"  Jay says, calling Pamela as his first witness after delivering his opening statement the next morning.

 

All eyes fall on Pamela as she gets up from her seat in the courtroom and makes her way to the witness stand.  The bailiff meets her, holding the Bible.  Pamela places her left hand on the Bible and raises her right.  "Do you swear to tell the truth, the whole truth, and nothing but the truth, so help you, God?"

 

"I do,"  Pamela replies softly.  As she takes her place on the stand, Jay approaches her.  

 

"Good morning, Mrs. McKay."

 

"Good morning."

 

"Please state your full name for the record,"  Jay says.

 

"Pamela Rebecca Barnes...........McKay."

 

"Pamela, you are the former wife of the deceased, Tripp McKay, is that correct?"

 

"Yes, I am."

 

"And you are dating the defendant in this case, Justin Ewing?"  Jay asks.

 

"Yes,"  Pamela replies.  Sitting in the courtroom, Cliff rolls his eyes in disgust at his daughter's answer.

 

"Pamela, what was your relationship with Tripp McKay like?  Did the two of you have an amicable divorce?"

 

"No, not at all.  Our divorce was anything but amicable."

 

"Would you please describe to the court your relationship with the defendant, Justin Ewing?  What kind of man do you know Justin Ewing to be?"  Jay asks.

 

"Justin Ewing is the sweetest, kindest, most loving and gentle man that I've ever known,"  Pamela says.  

 

"Kind, loving, and gentle,"  says Jay.  "That's a sharply different description than the one that's been painted of my client by the prosecution.  How is that, Pamela?  That you see one side of Justin Ewing and these other people have described seeing another?"

 

"Like anyone, Justin can get angry, especially when someone he loves is threatened."

 

"Someone, like yourself, or your two children?"

 

"Yes."

 

"Pamela, were you and your children threatened by anyone?  For example.........Tripp McKay?"

 

"Yes.  Tripp was threatening to take me to court and sue me for custody of our son, Hunter."

 

"Why?"  Jay asks.  

 

"Tripp was vengeful.  He had changed a lot since I first married him, and he hated Justin."

 

"Why did Tripp hate Justin?"

 

"For the simple reason that Justin's last name is Ewing,"  replies Pamela.

 

"I don't understand.  Would you please explain that statement to the court?"

 

"Tripp hated the Ewings with a passion.   All the Ewings."

 

"Why?"

 

"Tripp's family, the McKays, had this long, on-going feud with the Ewings going back thirty years or so.  It started with Tripp's grandfather, Carter McKay."

 

"Your Honor, I object to this line of questioning,"  Gail says.  "I don't see the relevance."

 

"Your Honor, I beg the court's indulgence,"  says Jay.  "I'm attempting to establish a history between Tripp McKay and my client, and my client's family.  Understanding the history between the Ewing and McKay families is essential to understanding what led up to any enmity between my client and the deceased."

 

"Alright, I'll allow it,"  says Judge Johnson.  "For now.  As long as the questioning is relevant to this case.  Proceed."

 

"Thank you, Your Honor.  So, Pamela, what you're saying is that Tripp McKay hated Justin Ewing not because Justin had ever done anything to him personally, but for no other reason than the fact that his last name is Ewing?"

 

"That's right.  Tripp was involved in a war with Justin's brother, John Ross.  Unfortunately, Justin got caught in the middle."

Southern Methodist University....

 Cole Duncan is walking by Dallas Hall late that morning carrying a cup of coffee.  Coming out of another building, Ashley spots Cole and rushes to catch up to him.  "Cole!"  She calls to him.  At first, he doesn't hear her and continues walking.  "Cole Duncan!"  

 

Finally, she catches his attention and Cole turns to her as Ashley catches up to him.  "Hey, Ashley, what's up?"  Cole asks.

 

"Not much.  How are you?  I haven't seen you around in a few days."

 Sue Ellen and Ann are having lunch at Perry's that afternoon.   "Honestly, things are really not looking good for Justin at all,"  Sue Ellen tells Ann. "The prosecution has really made Justin look guilty.  I only hope that Jay can pull some trick out of his hat to help him."

 

"I'd really love to be there, in court to support Justin and the family, but......."

 

"I know.  It's awkward being around Bobby."

 

Ann nods.  "Bobby, AND Lucas, and, quite frankly Christopher, too.  I hurt them all so much.  If I had just tried  harder to convince Emma to tell the truth from the start.  Or if I just hadn't gone along with her in the first place."

 

"You made some mistakes,"  Sue Ellen says.  "But Ann, you were only trying to do what you thought was best for your daughter.  You were trying to protect Emma, which I understand.  I've certainly gotten into hot water more times than I care to remember by trying to protect John Ross, and by siding with him against Bobby."

 "Yes,"  Emma says.  "I got some news this morning from my lawyer.  Richard Channing is going to court to overturn Kevin's will.  And, since Kevin wrote the will and left that money and a piece of Falcon Crest to Logan because he thought Logan was his son.......Richard will probably win the case.  That means that everything Kevin left to me and my son will be taken away.  We won't have anything."

 

"I'm sorry, Emma.  You really loved Kevin Channing, didn't you?"

 

"Yes, I did.I suppose I had for a long time."

 

"How did you happen to meet him, anyway?"  Jimmy asks.

 

"It was a long time ago.  It was 2008.  We met in London.  You see, Kevin's father, Richard Channing and my fa....... and Harris Ryland, the man I THOUGHT was my father.........knew each other through mutual CIA contacts.  They were friends, or rather, friendly acquaintances.  Kevin was in London with Richard, and I was living there at the time.  Harris and I were out to dinner one night, and Richard and his son were there and stopped by our table.  I'll never forget that night.  I thought Kevin Channing was the most handsome boy I'd ever seen.  He had this beautiful head of blonde hair, the sweetest smile, and the most loving eyes.  It was instant attraction.  We exchanged numbers,and started hanging out.  After a few weeks, we were in love."

 

"What happened?  Why didn't the relationship continue then?"

 

Emma sighs.  "My home was in London at that time, and my entire world revolved around horses, and racing.  Kevin had to go back to California with his father.  We kept in touch, and even saw one another as often as we could.  But eventually.........it ended.  And I didn't see him again until he came to Dallas about three years ago.  The old attraction was still there.  Jimmy I miss him every day."  Emma fights back tears.  "I never wanted to hurt Kevin. And he never deserved to die such a horrible death.  God, I've made a mess of everything."

Ann and Sue Ellen walk over to their table at that moment.  "Emma,"  Ann says.  "Hello, Jimmy."

 

"Ann.  Sue Ellen,"  Jimmy says.

 

"Emma, when I left, you didn't say anything about going out.  Where's Logan?"

 

"Logan is fine,"  Emma replies.  "The babysitter is with him."

 

"I must say, I'm surprised to see the two of you here together,"  says Ann.  

 

"Jimmy and I are friends,"  Emma says.  "In fact, he's the only friend I have in this whole town."

 

"And, who's fault is that, dear?"  Sue Ellen asks, eliciting an eye roll from Ann.  

 

"Well, Sue Ellen and I were just on our way out,"  Ann says.  "You two enjoy your lunch.  Emma, I'll see you back at the hotel."

 

"Fine,"  Emma says.  Ann and Sue Ellen walk away.

 

 

"Well, that was..........ummm, awkward,"  says Jimmy.

 

"Yes, it was.  That Sue Ellen, I can't stand that woman."

 

"Yeah, and I think the feeling is mutual.  Hey, don't let her get to you,"  Jimmy says, reaching across the table and taking Emma by the hand.

 

Meanwhile, as Sue Ellen and Ann are about to leave the restaurant, Sue Ellen looks back and sees Jimmy and Emma holding hands across the table.  A look of disgust comes over her face.

 

Afton's Lounge....that evening....

 Cliff is sitting at the bar at Afton's Lounge, sipping on a glass of scotch as Afton makes her way around the restaurant greeting her customers, asking them if everything is okay.  Spotting Cliff, she walks over to the bar. "Cliff," she says.

 

"Oh, hi, Afton," he replies.  

 

"Cliff, what's wrong?  Why are you sitting here drinking alone?  You seem upset."

 

"Is it THAT obvious?"  Cliff asks, taking a sjp of his drink.

 

"What's wrong?"

 

"You were there and you have to ask?   Today, I had to sit in that courtroom and listen as our daughter described her relationship with that Ewing kid."

 

Afton sighs.  "And THAT'S what this is about?  You're upset about Pamela and Justin?  Cliff, you've known for weeks that the two of them were together."

 

"Yes, but seeing her on that stand defending the guy, it just.......it just got to me, that's all.  The guy is on trial for killing Pamela's ex-husband, Hunter's father."

 

"I know.  But Pamela truly believes that Justin's innocent."

 

"He's not innocent,"  Cliff says.  "He's NOT."

 

"And what makes you so sure."

 

"Come on, Afton, you were there.  You heard the testimony and all the evidence that lady prosecutor presented during the trial.  It's overwhelming.  The murder weapon was even found in his car."

 

"I know.  I know all that,"  Afton says.  "That's what makes this so hard.  Pamela loves him, Cliff.  And if Justin is found guilty of Tripp's murder, this will kill her."

 

"She'll get over it, and him,"  Cliff says, finishing off his drink.  "And now that Jay Smithfield has called ME to testify at the trial tomorrow.  I dunno what the hell he could want from me.  Hey, bartender, lemme have another."

 

"Cliff, you've had enough,"  Afton says.

 

"No, I haven't had enough."

 

"Yes, you have.  Tommy don't serve Mr. Barnes anymore."

 

"Yes, Ms. Cooper,"  the bartender replies.  

 

"Come on, Cliff."

 

"Come on? Come on, WHERE?"  Cliff asks, his speech slurred.

 

"I'm taking you home,"  says Afton.   "Tommy, can you take care of the place for me tonight, and close up?"

 

Tommy looks at her and smiles.  "Sure," he says.

 

"Thank you.  Come on, Cliff, let's go."  Afton puts her arm around Cliff and helps him off the barstool.  As he staggers,  Afton helps him out of the lounge.

Dallas Courthouse....the next morning....

 "The defense calls Mr. Clifford Barnes to the stand,"  Jay says, as Justin's trial resumes the next morning.  

 

Nervously, Cliff stands from his seat beside Brad near the back of the courtroom and slowly makes his way to the front of the courtroom, where the bailiff meets him  Cliff places his left hand on the Bible and raises his right.  "Do you swear to tell the truth, the whole truth, and nothing but the truth, so help you, God?"

 

"Uh, yeah, I do,"  Cliff nervously mutters, then takes his seat on the stand.  

 

Jay approaches him.  "Good morning," he says.  

 

"Morning."

 

"Please state your full name and occupation for the court."

 

"Clifford Barnes, and I am currently not employed but I'm the former vice-president of Stone-Barnes Oil."

 

"Mr. Barnes, you are the father of Pamela Barnes McKay, is that correct?"

 

"Yes, I'm Pamela's father."

 

"And Tripp McKay was your former son-in-law?"

 

"Yes, since Pamela is my daughter that stands to reason that her ex-husband was once my son-in-law,"  Cliff says sarcastically, to the laughter of many in the court.

 

Judge Johnson, annoyed by Cliff's remark and the laughter, bangs her gavel.  "Order,"she says.  "Mr. Barnes, I warn you to simply answer yes or no, and not to attempt that sort of humor in my courtroom again, is that clear?"

 

"Yes, sorry, Your Honor.  Yes, Tripp McKay was my son-in-law for a couple years,"  Cliff says.

 

"Mr. Barnes, what was your relationship like with Tripp McKay?"  Jay asks.

 

"I don't understand what you mean,"  Cliff says.

 

"Were you and Tripp McKay friendly?  Did you get along?"

 

"Oh, yeah.  Tripp was like a son to me.  I had known him since he was a kid.  I was friendly with his grandfather, Carter McKay.  We did some business together over the years."

 

"Hmmm.......Tripp McKay was like a son to you?"  Jay asks.  "I find that interesting.  Mr. Barnes, you said that you are the FORMER vice president of the now defunct Stone-Barnes Oil?" 

 

"Yeah, that's right."

 

"Why is your company now defunct, Mr. Barnes?  In other words, what were the circumstances surrounding Stone-Barnes Oil going out of business after only a brief existence?"

 

"I object, Your Honor,"  Gail Copeland says.  "What is the relevance of this line of questioning?"

 

"Your Honor, I beg the court's indulgence,"  Jay says.  "Relevance will become apparent if I may be allowed to continue."

 

"Alright, I'll allow it.  objection overruled,"  says the Judge.  "But please get to the point quickly, Mr. Smithfield."

 

"Yes, and thank you, Your Honor.  Mr. Barnes, you were in partnership with your son, Bradley Stone, is that correct?"

 

"Yes."

 

"And what drove your company out of business?"  Jay asks.

 

Cliff hesitates a moment before answering.  "My company was blackballed with the oil cartel.  We were blocked from being able to do business with any of the other Cartel members.  None of them would even return our phone calls."

 

"And why is that?"

 

"Because of the Ewings,"  replies Cliff.  They see themselves as the leaders of the Cartel, and they told the Cartel not 

As Cliff remains on the stand, trying to compose himself after Jay's grueling direct examination, Afton angrily looks over at the Ewings on the other side of the courtroom, blaming this family for all the troubles Cliff and their daughter are now having.  Sue Ellen and Afton lock eyes, and exchange bitter looks between them.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Justin's Ranch....the next day....

 "Yep.  Trial or no trial, I still got a ranch to run,"  Justin says.  

 

"Neither one of us got any sleep last night, did we?"  Pamela asks.

 

"I don't think I've gotten a full hour of sleep since this trial started.  I'm sorry about how hard Jay was on your Daddy yesterday."

 

"Jay's only doing his job, trying to get you acquitted."

 

"Well, it's not lookin' like that's gonna happen,"  Justin says.  

 

"Justin, you CANNOT think like that,"  Pamela says.  "We have to stay positive and we have to believe that Jay is going to get you acquitted."

 "NO, Pamela, we can't,"  Justin adamantly says.  "Don't you understand?  This is MURDER, not some traffic citation.  If I'm convicted, I could get the death penalty.  Or, I could get life in prison.  No way in hell would I ask you to stick by me under those circumstances."

 

"But you know that I would,"  Pamela says, crying.

 

"But I don't WANT ya to.  That would be so unfair to you and to the boys.  So I want you to promise me somethin'.  If I'm found guilty, and sent to prison...........you'll let me go.  You won't come visit me.  You won't write me, or think about me."

 

"Oh my God, do you know what you're asking?"

 

"Yes, I do.  I'm askin' you to move on with your life.  To find somebody who can be a husband to you and a father to your boys who itn't havin' to do it from behind bars. You deserve that.  Hunter and Randall deserve it."  Justin climbs back onto his horse.  "I'll see ya back up at the house," he says, then rides off, leading the horse he had rounded up behind him.  Pamela remains in the pasture, in tears.

Southfork....later....

 Cally is standing by the pool at Southfork that afternoon, looking out over the ranch, her mind transported back in time.....

As Cally remains deep in thought, John Ross comes onto the patio.  He pauses for several seconds and watches the woman who was his stepmother for almost two years when he was a child.  Finally, he walks over to her.  "I know this old sayin' is pretty corny, but......penny for your thoughts," he says.

 

"Oh, hi, John Ross.  I didn't hear you come out."

 

"No, you seem like you were a million miles away.  Sorry I interrupted."

 

"It's fine, you didn't,"  Cally says.  "I was just relivin' some old memories."

 

"Oh?  What memories?"  John Ross asks.

 

"I was just thinkin' about James, and when your Daddy and I were separated.  I found out I was pregnant with Justin, and, because J.R. and I had parted on such terrible terms, I decided he would never have anything to do with my child."

 

"You ever regret that decision, Cally?"  John Ross asks.  

 

"I didn't use to,"  she replies.  "For years, I was sure I had done the right thing.  But now.........now I regret it all the time.  I started regrettin' my decision when I came to J.R. memorial service and then and there it hit me that my son would never know his father, and J.R. would never get the chance to know his other son.  I made so many mistakes, John Ross.  J.R. and I both did.  But my biggest mistake was keepin' Justin from knowin' his father.  But back then, things were so bad between me and J.R. that, I felt I had no choice.  You had gone to visit Sue Ellen in London, so you weren't here when all this happened.  J.R. kicked me off Southfork and told me he never wanted to see me again.  I knew that if he found out I was pregnant, he'd come after me and my baby, and I couldn't let that happen."

 

"Well, what happened, Cally?"  John Ross asks.  

 

"I lied to J.R. when he found out I was pregnant.  I told him that James was the father."

 

"Yeah, I knew about that.  You and James were pretty close back then, huh?"

 

"Yes, we were.  For a while, anyway.  James was the best friend I had after Lucy moved to Europe.  And now all these years later, J.R.'s gone, James is gone, and here I am, back at Southfork waitin' on the outcome of my son's trial for murder.  John Ross, I'm so afraid for Justin."  Cally begins to cry.  "What if he's found guilty?"

 

John Ross puts his arms around Cally and embraces her.  "Hey, come on, now.  Can't think like that.  We can't,"  he says as Cally continues to cry.

Arnie's bar in Braddock....that night....

Justin is sitting alone at Arnie's Bar in Braddock that night, watching the news on the TV mounted on the wall, which is airing a news story about his trial.  The volume on the TV is too low for him to hear what the news anchor is saying, but his photo is on the screen, with headline about the trial.  Justin watches the news story, unable to believe the horrific events now happening to him.  

"Sure,"  says the waitress.  After she walks away, Justin returns his attention to the TV and the news, with his photo on the screen. 

 

As Justin is watching the news, Jimmy walks into the bar.  Looking around, he spots Justin, then walks over and takes a seat across from him.   "Hey, man,"  Jimmy says.

 

"Hey,"  says Justin.  

 

"So what's up?  You said you wanted to talk to me?"

 

"Yeah, man, I do."

 

"Why couldn't we talk at the house?"  Jimmy asks.  "Why'd we have to come here, unless you just felt like a guys' night out to have a few drinks?"

 

Justin sighs.  "Because I didn't wanna talk at the house where Pamela, my mother, or Ashley could hear us."

 

"Okay, so what's up?"

 

"Jimmy, I wanted to talk to you about some things.  About my trial.  As you know, things are not goin' too well right now, and, in a few days, the trial's gonna come to an end.  I need to prepare."

 

"Come on, man, prepare for WHAT?"  Jimmy asks.

 

"Jimmy, you and I both know what I need to prepare for.  More and more it's lookin' like I'm gonna be found guilty."

 

"Dude, I haven't even wanted to think about that."

 

"Neither have I, but..........I have to think about it, and prepare for the worst,"  Justin says.  "With this murder charge, there are only two sentences I could get........the death penalty, or life in prison.  And, if that happens, I'm gonna need someone I can trust to take care of things for me."

 

"What kind of things?"  Jimmy asks.  

 

"Well, there's my ranch.  Jimmy I want you to know that you and your family will always have a home there.  If I AM convicted.......the ranch is yours."

 

"Justin........"

 

"I'm not finished,"  Justin says.  "There's also Pamela."

 

"Pamela?  I don't understand."

 

"She's gonna need somebody, Jimmy.  I just wanna make sure that Pamela and her boys are taken care of.  I love those boys like they were my own.  Hell, Randall may as well BE mine.  I was there when he was born, and I delivered him.  I just wanna make sure they're okay.  Will you do that for me?"

 

Jimmy looks at him, tears in his eyes.  "Justin, that means a lot that you asked me.  Especially after everything that happened between us with Amanda."

 

Justin shakes his head.  "That seems like a lifetime ago now.  I would've asked John Ross, but, you know he can't stand Pamela.  So will you?  Look after Pamela and the boys for me?"

 

"You know I will.  But bro.......I'm prayin' real hard that I won't have to because you're gonna be around to look after them yourself."

 

"Me, too, but.........I'm not holdin' my breath for that,"  Justin says sadly.

Jenna's apartment....

 Bobby and Jenna are having dinner in Jenna's apartment that night, but the dinner is in silence, as Bobby is spending most of his time staring off into space rather than acknowledging Jenna's presence or eating his dinner. Finally, Jenna is annoyed by the silence.  "Bobby?"  She says, but he is so deep in his thoughts he doesn't hear her.  "Bobby?"  She repeats, again failing to gain his attention.  "Well, I may as well have had dinner alone tonight."

 

"What?"  Bobby asks, finally snapping out of his trance.  "Jenna, I'm sorry, what did you say?"

 

"Bobby you may have been here this evening physically, but your mind and your spirit are obviously some place else."

 

"I really am sorry.  I know I'm not much comp'ny tonight.  And you cooked this lovely dinner."

 

"Yes, and how is it?"  Jenna asks.

 

"It's delicious."

 

"But you just don't have your mind on food tonight."

 

"No, I'm afraid I don't,"  says Bobby.  "I can't stop thinkin' about what a mess everything is right now.  Justin's trial, Lucas possibly facing trial for somethin' he didn't do.  Mine and Ann's divorce comin' up.  It just feels like everything has gone crazy, like it's all spinning out of control and there's not a damned thing I can do to stop it."

 

Jenna reaches across the table and takes Bobby's hand.  "I think I understand.  You're scared."

 

"Yes, I'm scared.  More so now, I think, than I have been in years.  You see, up until now, whenever there's been a crisis, Ann has been there by my side.  Ever since we were married thirteen years ago.  But now..........I feel alone in this, and I mean REALLY alone."

 

"Bobby you are NOT alone,"  Jenna says.  "It may feel that way, but you're not."

 

"I know, I have the family."

 

"And you also have me,"

 

"I know that, too.  Jenna, surprisingly, through all of this........this whole lousy year, you have been one of the few bright spots in my life.

 

"Bobby, isn't it strange how we keep finding ourselves intertwined in each others' lives?"  Jenna asks.  "We were childhood sweethearts, then teenage lovers.  We lost each other, and then for the next, what, 12 years?  We passed each other occasionally, like ships in the night."

 

"Yeah, you kept showin' up every now and again."

 

"Only you were married to Pam then.  But when I came back into your life that last time, 35 years ago, we had a chance.  A REAL chance, finally.  You and Pam were divorced by then, and my love for you was as strong as it ever was, if not stronger.  If it hadn't been for Katherine and Naldo, we might've been married all these years.  We could've raised our son together."

 

Bobby sighs.  "Jenna, there's no point in continuing to rehash the 'what ifs'.  It doesn't do anybody any good."

 

"I know,"  Jenna says, lowering her head.  

 

Bobby looks at the clock on the wall.  "It's gettin' late, I think I'd better go," he says.  He gets up from his seat.  "Jenna, thank you for a lovely evening, and a delicious dinner.  I never knew you could cook like that."

 

Jenna smiles as she stands to face him.  "I learned cook when I was married to Ray."

 

"Again, thank you for  a lovely evening,"  Bobby says.

 

"Bobby, you don't REALLY have to go, do you?"  Jenna asks, putting her arms around him.  

 

"I think I'd better.  Because if I stay any longer, I think we both know what might happen."

 

"Would that really be so bad?"  Jenna asks.  "Bobby, it's been so long since the two of us were together.  And now there's nothing stopping us.  NOTHING.  No Pam.  No Katherine and Naldo.  No Ray, and no Ann to come between us again.  Just stay the night."

 

"Jenna, I can't,"  Bobby says.  "Because as much as I'm tempted right now..........I AM still married to Ann.  I've never cheated on any of my three wives before, and I'm not about to start now.  So as long as Ann and I are legally married, I can't make love to you, and I won't.  Now, I have to go."  Bobby walks to the door and places his hand on the doorknob.  He pauses a second, then turns  to her.  "Goodnight, Jenna," he says.  

 

"Goodnight, Bobby,"  Jenna says, tears streaming down her face as Bobby leaves.  After he's gone, Jenna nods.  "Alright, Bobby," she says, almost in a whisper.  "You won't cheat, so we can't make love until you're divorced.  But as soon as that divorce is final...........I'll be waiting."

Dallas Courthouse....two days later....

 "No, Jay, absolutely NOT,"  Justin says, meeting with Jay in a conference room at the courthouse on Monday morning, before his trial resumes.  

 

"Justin, this may be the only way to cast doubt on your guilt, by showing that others had a motive to want Tripp McKay dead."

 

"Jay, I don't want my fam'ly dragged into this."

 

"Bobby, and Lucas both had words with McKay at the Cattlemen's Club that same afternoon that you threatened him.  And.............I haven't even wanted to think about this, but there's also Jill."

 

"Jill?"

 

"Yes,"  Jay replies.  "She hated McKay as much as anyone.  I could call her back to Dallas to testify."

 

"Jay, I already said no.  My fam'ly, especially Jill, has already been hurt enough by this whole mess."

 

"Justin, don't you understand the predicament we're in?  If we could cast doubt on your guilt by showing that jury you weren't the only one who had a motive to want Tripp McKay dead.  Justin, think about this.  It could be your only chance to avoid prison........or worse."

 

"Jay, there's one thing I know for sure, and that's that NONE of my fam'ly had anything to do with McKay's death.  Uncle Bobby, or Jill, nor Lucas would let me take the fall for this, let alone frame me by planting that lug wrench in the trunk of my car."

 

"Are you so sure about that?"  Jay asks.  "People sometimes do desperate things when they're cornered."

 

"It could've been Barnes,"  says Justin.  "Or Brad Stone, or a hundred other people in this town.  Tripp McKay had made a LOT of enemies.  Maybe one of them did it.  But no one in my fam'ly, and THAT I'm sure of."

A short time later....

"Please state your name and occupation for the record,"  Jay says to Brad a short time later when court resumes, and Brad is called to testify.

 

"Bradley Stone, and I'm the former president of Stone-Barnes Oil."

 

"You are the son of Mr. Cliff Barnes and the brother of Pamela Barnes McKay, is that right?"  Jay asks.

 

"Yes."

 

"Mr. Stone, your father, Cliff Barnes, has already testified to the fact that, last June, when your company, Stone-Barnes Oil, was facing severe financial crisis, you went to Tripp McKay for a loan of fifteen million dollars to keep your company afloat, correct?"

 

"Yes, I did,"  Brad replies.  "I was desperate.  I didn't know anyone else I could turn to for help."

 

"And McKay gave you the loan?"

 

"Yes, he did."

 

"And shortly after giving you the loan, McKay turned around and called the loan in, is that correct?"

 

"Yes,"  Brad replies.  "He demanded repayment of the loan in full by the end of that week."

 

"That must have made you very angry."

 

"Angry is too mild a word for what I felt."

 

"Did you confront Tripp McKay about him calling the loan in?"  

 

 

Brad hesitates before answering the question.

 

"Mr. Stone?  Did you confront Tripp McKay?"

 

"Yes, I did."

 

"And what was Mr. McKay's response when you confronted him and asked him why he called in the loan so quickly?"

 

Brad looks at Jay, and his mind travels back in time to the day months ago when he confronted Tripp about the loan:

 

 

 

"So Tripp McKay had absolutely no sympathy for your situation?"  Jay asks.  

 

"None whatsoever,"  replies Brad.  "McKay was a heartless bastard who didn't give a damn about anyone but himself,"  he says to the gasps of the crowded courtroom.  

 

"Objection, Your Honor,"  Gail says.  "I move that Mr. Stone's last comment be stricken from the record."

 

"The clerk will strike the witness's last comment from the record, and the jury is instructed to disregard it,"  says Judge Johnson.  

 

"So, needless to say you were very angry with Mr. McKay, is that correct?"

 

"Yes, I was angry.  McKay was destroying everything I'd worked my ass off for."

 

"Were you angry enough to kill him?"  Jay asks.

 

"Objection, Your Honor,"  Gail says.  

 

"Objection sustained,"  Judge Johnson says.  "Mr. Smithfield, need I remind you that this witness is not on trial here."

 

"I apologize,Your Honor.  No further questions for this witness."

 

"Miss Copeland, do you wish to cross examine?"  Judge Johnson asks.

 

"No, Your Honor.  I have no questions for Mr. Stone."

 

"Very well.  Mr. Stone, you may step down."

 

Brad nods, and quickly exits the witness stand.  

 

"Mr. Smithfield, you may call your next witness."

 

"Your Honor, the defense calls Shawn Smith to the stand,"  Jay says.

 

All eyes turn toward the young man as Shawn stands to his feet and makes his way to the front of the courtroom.  

A few minutes later....

"Shawn, you are the younger half-brother of the deceased, Tripp McKay, is that correct?"  Jay asks.  

 

"Yes."

 

"You and Tripp had the same mother, but different fathers?"

 

"Yes."

 

"Tripp was a good  many years older than you, wasn't he?"

 

"Yeah, he and Hunter were like 12 years older than me."

 

"Hunter, meaning Tripp's twin brother, correct?"  Jay asks.

 

"Yes."

 

"Shawn, what was your relationship like with your brother, Tripp? Did the two of you get along?"

 

"Not always,"  Shawn nervously replies in a low voice.

 

"I'm sorry, but could you repeat that?  I'm not sure that everyone heard you."

 

"I said, not always."

 

"Shawn, isn't it true that, not too long ago, you worked with John Ross Ewing against your brother by planting a bug in Tripp's apartment?"  Jay asks.

 

Shawn remains silent for several seconds, looking out into the courtroom at John Ross.  

 

"Shawn, answer the question, please, and I remind you that you are under oath,"  says Jay.  "Did you plant a bug in your brother's apartment for John Ross Ewing?"

  As John Ross exits the courthouse that afternoon, he takes out his phone and speed dials the number of Adam Carrington.  He waits patiently as Adam's cell phone rings, and finally on the fifth ring, Adam answers.  "Adam,         

John Ross here.  I told you I'd think about that offshore deal and get back to you.........well, I've made my decision, and I'm definitely in.  Yes, but listen, at least for now, I wanna keep this deal under wraps.  In other words, I don't want my Uncle Bobby or anyone else at Ewing Oil to know I'm in on this, at least for now.  Don't worry about that, I got that covered.  We'll meet in the next few days, and sign the deal.  Alright, well, I'm lookin' forward to doin' business, and I know this partnership is gonna mean a hell of a lotta money for both of us.  I'll be in touch."  John Ross ends the call, puts his phone away, and smiles.  

Southfork....that evening....

 Bobby is pouring himself a drink in the living room at Southfork that evening when Ray and Donna walk into the room.  "Evenin', Bob,"  Ray says.

 

"Well, evenin', Ray.  Donna."

 

"Hello,"  Donna says as she walks over to Bobby and greets him with a kiss.  

 

"How are you?"  Bobby asks.

 

"I am tired,"  Donna replies.  "I just got back from Austin today, just a little while ago, in fact."

 

"You been spending an awful lotta time down there lately."

 

"Yes she has,"  Ray agrees.  "TOO much time."

 

Donna smiles.  "Well, hopefully, all these committee meetings are starting to wind down and I won't have to be in Austin so much of the time."

 

"I sure hope so,"  says Bobby.  "Fix you two a drink?"

 

"I would LOVE one,"  Donna replies.

 

"Yeah, so would I,"  says Ray.

 

"Comin' right up.  Hope you two can stay for dinner."

 

"Actually, we were kinda hopin' you would ask,"  Donna says with a grin.  

 

"We really came over to find out how Justin's trial is goin',"  Ray says.

 

Bobby shakes his head as he pours Ray a glass of bourbon, then hands it to him.  "It's not goin' so well, Ray.  Jay Smithfield is doin' his best, but, all the evidence is stacked up against Justin."

"I don't know Justin that well, but, I just can't see that kid killin' somebody like that,"  Ray says.

 

"Neither can I, Ray,"  Bobby says.  "I don't believe he did it.  Not for a minute.  Justin may be a little hot headed like the rest of us, but he's no killer.  And a lot of people had reason to wanna see Tripp McKay dead, including his own brother."

 

"Shawn?"  Donna asks.  "Well, why would Shawn want Tripp dead?"

 

"Shawn hated Tripp.  So much so that he was workin' for John Ross against Tripp.  Shawn even planted a bug in Tripp's apartment for John Ross to spy on him."

 

"You're kiddin',"  Ray says.

 

"No, I'm not.  There was bad blood between those two brothers from the moment Sharon and Shawn arrived in Dallas.  And when Tripp found out Shawn was workin' for John Ross to get information on him and Westar, Tripp got Shawn fired from his job at the Athletic Club."

 

"Well, from what you're describing, Tripp McKay sounds an awful lot like J.R.,"  Donna says.  "The two of them probably would've gotten along just fine."

 

"Or been sworn enemies,"  Bobby says as John Ross and Krystina walk into the room.  

 

"Well, Uncle Ray, Donna,"  John Ross says, walking to the bar.  "What brings you two over tonight?"

 

"Ray and Donna are gonna be havin' dinner with us, John Ross,"  says Bobby.

 

"And we came over to see how Justin's trial is going,"  Donna says.

 

"I guess Bobby told you, it's not going so well,"  says Krystina.

 

Ray looks at her and nods.  "Yeah, he did."

 

John Ross pours a drink for Krystina and hands it to her, then pours one for himself.  "Donna, I hear you been spendin' a lotta time down in Austin lately."

 

Donna looks at him and smiles.  "Now just how'd you hear about that, John Ross?"

 

"I got friends who tell me things.  I understand you're still workin' overtime to get that regulatory committee to rescind their allowance for us oil men to drill."

 

"I am TRYING, as is Matt Culver, to get the committee to look into overturning their ordinance allowing the oil industry to pump to capacity, a decision that came totally out of the blue when two of those committee members suddenly changed their votes.  You wouldn't happen to know anything about that, now would ya, John Ross?"  

 

"Now why would I know anything about that?"  John Ross asks, looking at her with a smile.  

 

"Because I knew your Daddy real well, and the apple duttin' fall far from the tree, does it?"

 

John Ross laughs at the comment. 

 

Lucy walks into the room.  "Ray, Donna," she says, giving both a hug.  "Great to see you, it's been too long."

 

"Lucy, how ya doin'?"  Ray asks, greeting his niece with a kiss on the cheek.

 

"I'm great."

 

"How's that new volunteer job of yours going at the hospital?"  Donna asks.

 

"I'm absolutely loving it."

 

"And it doesn't hurt that she gets to see Mitch Cooper every day,"  Bobby says.  

 

Ray laughs.  "Yeah, I'll bet."

 

"I don't know WHAT you're all talking about,"  Lucy says, attempting to act coy.  "Anway, it kinda sounded like I walked in on something.  What were you guys talking about before I came in?"

 

"Oh, just how Donna's tryin' to stop the big, bad oil industry from corruptin' the land,"  John Ross says.  

 

"And of course corrupting is a subject you know all too well, isn't it, John Ross?"  Lucy asks.  "After all, your specialty is corrupting teenage boys like Ann's nephew Shawn."

 

John Ross is immediately annoyed by his cousin's remark.  "Lucy, why don't you........"

 

"I think we'd better go in to dinner," Bobby says in an effort to diffuse an argument.  "It should be ready by now."

 

"I think you're right,"  Donna says.  

 

"Where's the rest of the family?"  Ray asks.  

 

"Lucas, Heather, Christopher, and Courtney all took the boys out to dinner and a movie, and I'm sure Alex is with Bridget,"  Bobby replies as he, Ray, Donna, and Krystina head to the dining room for dinner.  John Ross and Lucy hang back.

 

 

 "Mr. Smithfield, you may call your next witness,"  says Judge Laura Johnson, when Justin's trial resumes the next morning.  

 

Jay stands.  "The defense calls Janice Lynch to the stand."

 

Bobby watches with curiosity, and a small amount of anger as his former secretary walks to the front of the courtroom and is sworn in by the bailiff, then takes her seat on the stand.  

 

Jay approaches Janice on the stand.  "Please state your name and occupation for the record."

 

"Janice Marie Lynch, and I'm employed as secretary for a private investigation firm in Houston."

 

"You were formerly employed as secretary to Mr. Bobby Ewing at Ewing Oil, is that correct?"

 

"Yes, that's correct,"  Janice replies.

 

"How long were you employed at Ewing Oil, or I should say, for Bobby Ewing?"  Jay asks.

 

"For five years.  I started working for Mr. Ewing at Ewing Energies.  And I stayed on after it became Ewing Global, and then Mr. Ewing kept me on as a secretary when he reacquired Ewing Oil in 2015."

 

"I see.  And, after five years, Ms. Lynch, what were the circumstances surrounding your dismissal from the company earlier this year?"

 

"I made a huge mistake."

 

"A huge mistake?"  Jay asks.  "You were working for Tripp McKay as a spy, is that correct, Ms. Lynch?  You were spying on your employers at Ewing Oil, supplying information on them to Tripp McKay."

 

"I object, Your Honor,"  Gail says.  "What is the relevance?"

 

"If I may be allowed to continue, Your Honor, the relevance will become apparent."

 

Judge Johnson looks at Jay.  "Objection overruled.  I'll allow this line of questioning, but as I've warned you before, Mr. Smithfield......come to the point."

 

"Yes, Your Honor,"  Jay says.  "Ms. Lynch, please answer the question........were you spying on Ewing Oil for Tripp McKay?"

 

"Yes,"  Janice replies.  

 

"Ms. Lynch.......did you have a sexual relationship with Tripp McKay?"

 

Janice hesitates a few seconds before replying.  "Yes,"  she finally says, her voice shaky.

 

"Ms.Lynch,back to my original question........what were the circumstances surrounding your termination from Ewing Oil earlier this year?  Was it due to your spying for Tripp McKay and Westar Oil?"

 

"Yes.  John Ross found out that I was the company spy and he fired me."

 

"And, did you continue your working, and personal relationship with Tripp McKay after this?"

 

"Only, ummm......only for one night,  Tripp kicked me to the curb after I was no longer useful to him."

 

"So he ended your relationship?"  Jay asks.

 

"Yes, he did."

 

"Ms. Lynch, you seem very emotional right now.  How exactly did you feel about Tripp McKay?"

 

Janice looks at him, her eyes filling with tears.  "I was in love with him."

 

"And did he return your feelings?"  Jay asks.

 

"Obviously not,"  Janice replies, shaking her head.  "He told me basically to get lost."

 

"That must have hurt a great deal.  And it must have made you very angry."

 

"Objection,"  Gail says.  

 

"Objection sustained."

 

"I have no further questions,"  Jay says, returning to his seat, leaving a tearful and shaken Janice on the stand following her brief but emotional testimony.  

 

"Miss Copeland?" Judge Johnson says.

 

"No questions for this witness, Your Honor."

 

"Mr. Smithfield, you may call your next witness."

 

Jay hesitates for a moment, remaining silent as he looks at Justin.  The silence goes on for several seconds as everyone in the courtroom begins to wonder why Jay doesn't call his next witness.  

 

"Mr. Smithfield?"  Judge Johnson says.

 

Jay again looks at Justin.  "The defense rests, Your Honor," he finally says, to the surprise of almost everyone.

 

"Fine,"  the Judge says.  "We will take a short recess of fifteen minutes, and when we return, counsel will present closing statements."  Judge Johnson bangs her gavel on the bench, indicating court is in recess.  

 

Jay looks at his client.  "Justin, I could've called Bobby, Lucas, or John Ross to that stand, and......."

 

"Jay, I already told you.  No one in my family had anything to do with McKay's murder, and I'm sure of that.  I won't have them dragged through the mud, too, especially Uncle Bobby and Lucas.  They're dealin' with enough, and this could hurt Lucas's case with Emma Ryland.  I gotta get some water."  Justin quickly gets up from his seat and leaves.  A worried and sad look comes over Jay's face.

Half an hour later....

Gail Copeland stands from her seat at the prosecution's table and approaches the jury box.  "Ladies and gentlemen of the jury,"  she begins.  "Over the past week, we've heard quite a lot of testimony in this trial.  We've heard and seen evidence presented in this case that points to the defendant, Justin Randall Ewing, as the murderer of Tripp McKay.  Let's talk for just a moment about the victim in this case.  Thomas McKay, Jr., known to everyone as Tripp, was a young man with his entire life ahead of him.  Born in December, 1986, Tripp McKay was only 31-years-old at the time of his death.  A very young man whose future was snuffed out.  Whose life was brutally cut short by a vicious act of violence.  Setting aside the fact that he was a wealthy and powerful businessman, the head of the giant Westar Oil Company, let's look at the more human aspects of this young man's life.  Tripp McKay was a human being, with dreams, aspirations, and goals.  Tripp McKay was a father.  He had a 2-year-old son, Hunter, who will never get the chance to know his father.  Tripp McKay was a son.  A brother.  A nephew, and a friend.  And on the night of June 9, 2018, as he walked to his car in the parking garage of his building, Museum Tower, Tripp McKay came face to face with his killer.  On that awful night, this young father was viciously beaten with a lug wrench.  This wasn't just a murder.  This was a heinous act committing in RAGE.  We heard testimony from a doctor and a medical examiner who testified that Tripp McKay's skull was crushed due to the blows he received to the head that night.  But even then, Tripp didn't die instantly.  Beaten to the point of unconsciousness, Tripp lay face down in a pool of his own blood for up to two to three minutes before he died.  Which means, he probably died just seconds before his body was discovered by two teenagers, Nicholas Presley and Jessica Dixon.  And what of the murder weapon used to

 younger half-brother, Shawn Smith, who admitted on the witness stand his dislike for his brother.  Tripp McKay was very complicated, and could be very ruthless when crossed.  He learned that his brother had planted a bug in 

After Jay has finished his closing argument, it is time for Judge Johnson to instruct the jury:  "Ladies and gentlemen of the jury, now that you have heard all of the evidence, and the arguments of counsel, it becomes my duty to give you the instructions of the court concerning the law which governs this case.  It is your duty as jurors to follow the law as I shall state it to you, and to apply that law to the facts as you find them from the evidence presented in court.  You are not to single out one instruction alone as stating the law, but must consider the instructions as a whole.  Neither are you to be concerned with the wisdom of any rule of law stated by me.  Regardless of any opinion you may have as to what the law is or ought to be, it would be a violation of your sworn duty to base a verdict upon any view of the law other than that given in the instructions of the court, just as it would also be a violation of your sworn duty, as judges of the facts, to base a verdict upon anything other than the evidence presented during the trial.  In deciding the facts of this case, you must not be swayed by bias or favor as to any party.  All parties should be treated as equals, whether actual persons or corporations no longer in business.  Our system of law does not permit jurors to be governed by prejudice or sympathy or public opinion.  Both the parties and the public expect that you will carefully and impartially consider all of the evidence in the case, follow the law as stated by me in these instructions, and reach a just verdict regardless of the consequences."

Sue Ellen's home....afternoon....

 Sue Ellen, Bobby, John Ross, Krystina, Alex, Cally, Christopher, Lucas, Justin, Pamela, and Jay are gathered at Sue Ellen's home, having coffee and refreshments as they anxiously await the jury to finish deliberating Justin's fate.  "Sue Ellen, these cakes are delicious,"  Krystina says, sampling one of Sue Ellen's own homemade pastries.  

 

"Thank you.  I made those last night."

 

"Sue Ellen, when did you learn to make pastries like this?"  Bobby asks.

 

"Well, actually, Bobby, many years ago.  My grandmother taught me how to make those when I was just a girl and still living at home.  She wrote the recipe down for me, and I put it away.  Of course I never did any cooking when I was married to J.R., so I didn't make them for a long, long time.  A couple of years ago, I ran across my grandmother's old recipe and decided to give it a try again."

 

"Well, they're really delicious,"  Christopher says.

 

"Thank you."

 

"You'll have to give me the recipe,"says Krystina.

 

"I certainly will,"  Sue Ellen says.  "You're entitled to it, anyway, since it's a family recipe, and one day, hopefully you'll pass it on to my granddaughter."

 

"You can count on it."

 

Justin stands from his seat on the sofa.  "I sure wish we could hear somethin'," he says.  "This waitin' is gettin' on my last nerve.  How long has that jury been out?"

"About three and a half hours,"  Bobby says.

 

"Well, hopefully, no news is good news, right, Jay?"  John Ross asks.  "I mean, the longer the jury is out means the harder time they're havin' reachin' a decision, right?"

 

"That could be the case, but, it's not always true that the longer the jury is out, the better the news for the defendant. Sometimes, it's just the opposite."

 

Justin puts down his cup of coffee on the coffee table.  "Excuse me, everyone.  I need some air," he says, then walks out of the house.  Pamela starts to go after him.

 

"Pamela, wait,"  Lucas says.  "Would you mind if I talk to him?"

 

"Of course not,"  she replies.

 

Lucas nods, then walks out of the house, finding his cousin standing on the small front porch of Sue Ellen's house.  "Pretty chilly out here,"  Lucas says.

 

"Yeah."

 

"Justin, how ya doin', man?"

 

"How do you think I'm doin'?"  Justin snaps.  "Uh, look, Lucas, I'm sorry, man.  I didn't mean to snap at you."

 

"No, it's fine.  If anybody understand what you're going through right now, it's me.  Facing going to trial for arson and assault, I...........everything just feels like a horrible nightmare I'm gonna wake up from.  So if you wanna talk, I'm here."

 

Justin looks at him.  "Thanks, Lucas, I appreciate that.  I'm just scared.  REAL scared.  I've tried to prepare myself for this for days now.  But, no matter how hard I tried, I'm still not prepared for what might come."

 

"I wish I had some advice to give you.  All I can say is, you have to have faith that things are gonna work out."

 

"That's hard, man.  Boy, is that hard,"  Justin says.  "I think, more'n anything, I'm worried about Pamela and the boys.  Even more than I'm worried about myself."

 

"Pamela will be fine, no matter what happens.  Not only is she strong herself, but she has a lot of support."

 

"I know,"  Justin says with a nod.  Just then, Jay comes out of the house, a somber look on his face.  Justin and Lucas look at him.

 

"The court clerk just called,"  Jay says.  "The jury has reached a verdict.  Judge Johnson wants us back in the courtroom in half an hour."

 

Justin sighs, a look of worry and fear on his face as he prepares to go back into that courtroom and learn his fate.

Dallas Courthouse....later....

 A little more than 45 minutes later, everyone is back in the courtroom, Justin nervously fidgeting in his seat at the defense table.  The crowd in the courtroom is almost dead silent as they watch the jury being brought in and take their seats in the jury box.  Finally, the bailiff steps to the front of the courtroom.  "All rise,"  he says, followed by the rustling sound of the crowd standing to their feet.  "Court is now in session, the Honorable Judge Laura Johnson presiding."

 

Judge Johnson enters the courtroom and takes her seat on the bench.  "Please be seated,"  she says.  "Has the jury reached a verdict in this case?"

 

A man seated on the front row of the jury box stands.  "We have, Your Honor."

 

"Please hand the written verdict to the bailiff."

 

The bailiff walks to the jury box, is handed a folded piece of paper by the jury foreman, then hands the paper to the Judge.  She unfolds it and looks at it.

 

"Will the defendant please rise and face the court?"  Judge Johnson asks.  

 

Nervously, Justin stands to his feet, his knees feeling as if they are about to buckle under him at any minute.  Jay stands beside him.  

 

Judge Johnson looks at the jury.  "How does the jury find the defendant?"

 

"We the jury, in the above entitled action, do hereby find the defendant, Justin Randall Ewing, guilty of murder in the first degree,"  the foreman replies, the reading of the verdict followed by gasps from the crowded courtroom.  

 

"NOOOO!!!!!!"  Cally cries out, loudly.  

There are various reactions throughout the courtroom as the verdict is read........the Ewings appear shocked, Cally and Pamela are devastated, while Shawn finds it hard to contain a smile upon hearing of Justin's conviction for his brother's murder.

 

Meanwhile, as Jay places his hand on his client's shoulder, Justin stands motionless, looking at the jury, a confused expression on his face, feeling numb, unable to believe what has just happened to him, and realizing that his life as he had known it is now over forever!

 

 

END OF EPISODE 187....