EPISODE 196 - Race Against Time

 "I wanna know.........just what the hell were doin' with Allison Jones, and how do you even know her?"  John Ross asks Kimberly Cryder as the two stand face to face in her living room.

 

"Allison who?"  Kimberly asks, feigning ignorance.

 

"Cut the crap, Kimberly.  You know damned well who I'm talkin' about.  The woman in the photos with you last night."

 

"So?  I met with Allison over drinks.  Is that a crime?"

 

"I don't know, you tell me,"  John Ross.  "How do you know Allison?"

 

"I've known her for quite some time.  I was acquainted with her husband.  As you know, he was very prominent politically in Dallas several years ago, and I contributed to one of his campaigns."

 

"Makes sense.  But why were you and Allison tryin' to hide your connection?"

 

"No one was trying to hide anything."

 

"Then why the meeting in such a secret out of the way dump?"  John Ross asks.

 

"I happen to like the food there,"  Kimberly replies.  "Now, John Ross, I'm really terribly busy, so if you don't mind......."

 

"Actually, Kimberly, I DO mind.  Because what you're tellin' me is not makin' a whole lotta sense."

 

"What is it to you, anyway?  Why is it any of your business who I meet with?"

 

"Oh, I don't give a damn about anything you're up to, except where Allison Jones is concerned.  I have a little problem with her that I need taken care of.  And I know that Allison keepin' some big secret that has to do with her sister's poor dead husband, Jeffrey Myers.  And I'm gonna find out what that secret is, because it's obviously a whole lot bigger than just an affair between the two of them."

 

"John Ross, you're barking up the wrong tree,"  says Kimberly.  "I don't know anything about Allison's sister's poor dead husband, or whatever it is you're talking about."

 

"Somehow, I get the feelin' you're not tellin' me the truth."

 

"Alright, that's it,"  Kimberly says.  "I do not like being called a liar in my own home, so I'd like for  you to leave now."

 

"Kimberly, let me make this clear.  You can tell me what I wanna know now, or, I can find out on my own later.  Either way, I'm gonna find out what's goin' on between you and Allison Jones, and if I find out you're involved in some nefarious scheme with her, or if you and she had somethin' to do with Myers's death, I'm comin' after both Allison, AND you."

 

Kimberly looks at him angrily.  "Get out.  I want you out of my house, right now."

 

"Well, you can't say I didn't warn you.  You knew my father well enough to know he didn't like bein' played.  And neither do I."

 

"I also beat your father when he came up against me,  If you try, the same thing will happen to you."

 

"I don't think so,"  John Ross says.  "This time you don't have my mother as your ally.  I warned you, Kimberly.  Now when I find out what the hell Allison is hiding, she's goin' down, and you're goin' with her, and THAT, is a promise."  John Ross walks past Kimberly and leaves the house. 

 

After he's gone, Kimberly begins to shake with fear and cry.  "Damn you, John Ross,"  she says.  "I can't......I WON'T let you destroy me."  Kimberly walks to the fireplace and looks at Jill's photo on the mantle.  "Jill, my darling," she says as she takes the photo down and looks at it.  "I am SO sorry.  But what I did, I did for you.  To protect you.  And somehow, I have to find a way to keep that brother of yours from exposing what I did, and hurting you.  If Allison won't take care of this problem..........then I'll have to."

 Courtney walks into the lounge area of the hospital and sees Joseph Gioberti sitting at a table alone, drinking a cup of coffee.  She walks over to him.  "Mind if I sit down?"

 

"Please do,"  Joseph says.

 

Courtney takes a seat across from him.  

 

"Courtney, I wanna thank you for calling me and letting me know about Jacob being in the hospital,"  Joseph says.  

 

"I thought you had a right to know,"  says Courtney.  

 

"Well I really appreciate it.  Courtney, you should have told me about Jacob a long time ago."

"Joseph, I couldn't, especially not years ago,"  Courtney says.  "I was 15-years-old when the two of us slept together that night.  You could've gotten into SO much trouble. You'd have been arrested, charged with statutory rape and had your whole life ruined.  You'd have been labeled a sex offender for the rest of your life, all because I lied to you about my age that night."

 

"You told me you were eighteen,"  Joseph says.  "Even had an I.D. to prove it."

 

"A fake I.D. that my cousin got for me.  That one mistake I made that night, it changed all our lives."

 

"And you lied to protect me?"

 

"Yes,"  Courtney says.  A few weeks later, when I took a pregnancy test and found out I was carrying Jacob, I panicked.  I knew that if anyone found out that you and I'd had sex, your life would be ruined.  I couldn't let that happen, so,before I even told anyone I was pregnant, I.........I slept with Chase so that everyone would think the baby was his.  Chase was only 16, so, he wouldn't have gotten in trouble like you."

 

"I don't regret that night, Courtney,"  says Joseph.  

 

"Neither do I.  Joseph, I made so many mistakes.  So many.  But the one thing I DON'T regret is the night we slept together, because that night gave me Jacob.  The rest, I do regret.  I regret using Chase and lying to him.  I regret giving my baby up for adoption instead of keeping him and  doing my best to raise him, even though I was so young."

 

"Courtney, you did what you thought was best at the time, for the baby,"  Joseph says as he reaches across the table and takes her hand.  

 

"Yes, I did.  But if I could go back, I would do everything so differently.  I lost so much time with Jacob, and I robbed you of precious time with him."

 

"Courtney, I want to meet Jacob.  I wanna get to know him."

 

Courtney nods.  "I think that would be good."

 

Christopher walks in at that moment.  He stops in the doorway when he sees his wife sitting with Joseph, holding her hand across the table.  Angered, Christopher walks over to them.  "Courtney,"  he says.

 

"Oh, Christopher."

 

"I've been looking all over for you."

 

"I'm sorry.  I went looking for Joseph.  I wanted to talk to him."

 

"So I see.  Well, Jacob's back in his room.  We should go and see him."

 

"Yeah,"  Courtney says.  "Joseph, would you like to come?  Christopher, I think it would be good for Jacob to meet Joseph."

 

Christopher looks at Joseph.  "Sure, if that's what you want."

 

Joseph looks at him and nods, then stands to his feet.  Without exchanging another word with each other, the three leave the lounge together.

Jacob's room.....a few minutes later....

Jacob is laying in his bed texting on his phone when Christopher and Courtney walk into the room, followed by Joseph and Cole.  "Hey, sweetheart,"  Courtney says.  "How do you feel?"

 

The boy looks at her.  "Tired."

 

"Well, we'll let you get some sleep soon.  Jacob, there's someone here that wants to meet you.  Sweety, this is Joseph Gioberti..........your father."

 

Jacob looks at Joseph.  "Hello, Jacob,"  Joseph says.

 

"You're my real father?"

 

"Yes, Jacob, I am,"  replies Joseph.  "And I'm so happy to finally meet you."

 

"You're Chase's brother?"

 

''Yes, that's right.  Chase is my little brother.  And there's someone else here who's been wanting to meet you.  Jacob, this is my father........your grandfather, Cole Gioberti."

 

"Hi,"  Jacob says.

 

Cole looks at his grandson and smiles.  "Hello, Jacob."

 

"Wow.  I have another grandfather."

 

Cole slightly laughs at the boy's remark.  "Yes, you do.  And I'd love to have the chance to get to know you."

 

Feeling uncomfortable, Christopher turns and walks out of the room.  Worried about her husband, Courtney follows him.  "Christopher?"  She calls to him as he heads down the hall.  He stops and turns to her, and Courtney approaches him.  "Where are you going?"

 

"I just need some air."

 

"Christopher, does it bother you that Joseph and his father are here?"

 "If you want the truth, then yes, it does,"  Christopher replies.  "Courtney, I'm sorry.  But yes, it bothers the hell out of me that Joseph is Jacob's father and I'm not.  I know this sounds really horrible, and I'm sorry, God forgive me for feeling this way, but things would be a whole lot easier if Joseph Gioberti wasn't in the picture at all.  If he'd just sign over his parental rights.  But now that he's met Jacob...........well, I just don't see that happening."

 

"Christopher, Joseph may be Jacob's biological father, but that's where it ends,"  Courtney says.  "You are the one raising him.  YOU are the one he looks up to.  Anyone who has seen the two of you together can see the love you have for Jacob, and the love he has for you.  In the end, that's what matters, not biology.  Look at you and Bobby."

 

"Yeah, but there's one big difference there.  My Dad didn't have my biological father hanging around.  He didn't have to worry all the time about Jeff Faraday taking me away from him..  Courtney, the painful reality is that, I have no legal rights here at all.  None.  I love Jacob like he's my own son.  I would give my life to save him right now if I could.  Joseph just met Jacob five minutes ago, and legally, he has more rights to Jacob than I do.  I'll be back soon.  I gotta get some air."  Christopher turns and walks away from her as tears begin to fall down Courtney's cheek.

Allison Jones's apartment....that night....

 Rain pours down over the city of Dallas that evening as Allison comes out of her kitchen carrying a large bowl of popcorn.  "Okay, I got the popcorn ready.  Did you find us a movie to watch?"  She asks her nephew, Casey, who is sitting on the sofa.

 

"Sure did.  'Scream' or 'I know What You Did Last Summer.'  Take your pick," the boy replies.

 

"Horror?  Oh, Casey, come on, you know I hate horror movies."

 

"Awww, Aunt Allison, you said we could watch anything that I wanted to watch,"  Casey says.  

 

Allison looks at the boy and sighs.  "So I did,"  she says.  "Okay, uhh, 'I Know What You Did Last Summer.'  That one's not as gory as 'Scream.' "

 

Casey smiles.  "Okay, I'll put the movie on."

 

"Good.  I sure am glad your Mom let you spend the night with me tonight."

 

"Me, too,"  Casey says.  "I always love spending the night with you."

 

"That's because I let ya get away with everything, unlike your Mom,"  Allison says, taking a seat on the sofa beside her nephew.  As Casey starts the movie, the doorbell rings.  "Oh, great, who could that be?"

 

"Don't answer it,"  Casey says.

 

"I have to.  Could be important,"  Allison says.  "Just pause the movie.  I'll make this quick and get rid of whoever it is."  Getting up from the sofa, Allison walks to the door as the bell rings again.  "I'm coming," she says.  She opens the door and is shocked to find Kimberly Cryder standing before her, dressed in a soaked raincoat and carrying an umbrella.  "What the HELL are you doing here?"  She whispers.

 

"We need to talk.  NOW.  It's urgent."

 

"I can't."

 

"Well, you're gonna have to make time,"  Kimberly says, barging into the apartment.  She stops short when she sees Casey sitting on the sofa.  "Oh,"  Kimberly says.  "I'm sorry, I didn't realize....."

 

"Kimberly, this is a very bad time,"  Allison says.

 

"Hi,"  Casey says, waving to Kimberly.

 

"Hello there,"  Kimberly says, smiling at the boy.  "And.......who might you be?"

 

"I'm Casey.  I'm Aunt Allison's nephew.  Who are you?"

 

"I'm Mrs. Cryder.  Your Aunt Allison's friend."

 

"Casey and I were just about to watch a movie,"  says Allison.

 

"Allison, we really DO have to talk.  Now,"  Kimberly says.  

 

"Casey, honey, why don't you go on and take your shower?"

 

"A shower?  Now?  But what about our movie?"

 

"Just go and get your shower out of the way, and by the time you get out, Mrs. Cryder and I will be done with our business."

 

Casey sighs.  "Okay,"  he says.  The boy reluctantly gets up and goes into the bedroom.  Allison walks over and pulls the door almost shut.  She waits for a minute and listens.  When she hears the shower water turn on in her bathroom, she closes the bedroom door and then returns to Kimberly in the living room.  

 

"He's a very handsome boy,"  Kimberly says.

 

"Are you completely OUT of your mind coming here?"  Asks an angry Allison.  "What if you were spotted?"

 

"I was very careful.  And I wouldn't have had to come here if you'd answer your damned phone."

 

"I was trying to spend a relaxing Friday evening with my nephew, so I turned my phone OFF.  Now what the hell is so important?"

 

"John Ross came to see me this afternoon,"  Kimberly says.

 

"He what?"

 

"Apparently, he's having you followed,because he pulled out a nice, glossy photo of you and I together at the restaurant last night."

 

"He's.......having me FOLLOWED?  That son of a......."

 

"Save the anger, Allison,"  says Kimberly.  "John Ross knows that we know each other, and he's close to figuring out that we share a deep, dark secret, and that that secret has to do with Jeffrey Myers."

 

"And so you decide to make things worse by coming to my apartment?  How stupid can you be?  And on top of that, Casey is here!"

 

"Listen to me,"  Kimberly says.  "You started this whole mess when you became involved in that damned Oil Regulatory Commission.  You should have known that the Ewings, or John Ross, anyway, would do everything in their power to stop it, and stop you, including digging into your past to find something to blackmail you with.  John Ross is NOT going to stop until he finds the truth, and I'm NOT gonna let that happen.  If the truth comes out, this could cost me my daughter, and not only that, you and I would go to prison."

 

"Don't you think I know that?"  Allison asks.  "Alright.  I'll try and stall the Commission somehow.  And I'll tell John Ross I'll do whatever he wants if he backs off."

 

 

"Do you really think that's going to stop him?  If John Ross is anything like his father, he'll keep coming like a rabid dog until he finds the truth."

 

"And what do you want me to do about it?"

 

"Find a way to shut John Ross down,"  Kimberly says.  

 

"Okay, I'll do my best.  But in the meantime, I suggest that you put some of that money to use and get rid of Melinda Thornton and Dr. Richard Elliott.  They're the only other two people besides us who know what we did.  Pay them whatever they want to get as far away from Dallas as possible.  If they're not around, then that greatly lessens the chance that John Ross will find the truth. I have every bit as much to lose here as you do, Kimberly.  I'll do my part in trying to stall the Commission and John Ross.........and you do your part by getting the two people who could blow us out of the water far away from here."

 

"I'll do just that."

 

"Good.  Now get out of here before Casey comes back,"  Allison says.  

 

"Do whatever you have to do to stop that Commission,"  says Kimberly.  "And if that doesn't satisfy John Ross, then more drastic measures will have to be implemented.  You got this whole thing started, and I expect you to do your part to stop it."  Kimberly walks to the door and starts to leave.  She pauses, then turns back to Allison.  "Casey really is a very handsome child," she says sadly. "When you think about what's at stake here, Allison, think about Casey.  Maybe that will give you some added incentive to put a stop to this mess you got us into." Kimberly leaves.

 

"Bitch,"  Allison says quietly after Kimberly has gone.   

Southfork....the next morning....

 Christopher is walking back to the house from the stables the next morning after taking an early horseback ride, when he pauses for a moment.  He puts his hands on the fence and looks at the fenced in area.  Memories flood his mind of a day a little more than a year ago when he was inside that fence with Jacob, teaching his stepson how to 

 ride his horse he and Courtney had given the boy for Christmas.  "How old were you when you learned how to ride?"  Jacob's voice echoes through Christopher's head.  "I was pretty young.  Younger than you are now, in fact," he replied to the boy's question.  "I wanna be just as good a rider as you are,"  Jacob said.  Christopher chokes back tears as he relives the memory of that happy day that seems like a lifetime ago.  The fear of losing Jacob to this heart condition is tearing Christopher up inside, causing him to feel more helpless than he'd ever felt before in his life, even more helpless than the terrible day almost 6 years ago when Pamela had miscarried their twins after the explosion on the oil rig.

 

Meanwhile, Krystina is jogging up the driveway back to the house when she sees Christopher standing by the fence.  She pauses her jog and watches him for a moment, her heart breaking for the tragedy he and Courtney are facing with Jacob.  Krystina jogs over to Christopher.  "Morning,"  she says.

 

"Morning."

 

"I thought you were still at the hospital."

 

"I was.  I left early this morning to come and get some more clothes for Courtney and myself.  There was nothing I could do at the hospital so I decided to take a ride on the ranch while I was here.  Just to clear my head.  I love riding on winter mornings, especially when there's been a frost the night before."

 

"So do I.  It's so beautiful,"  Krystina says.  "Christopher, I am SO sorry for what you and Courtney are going through.  And if there's anything that I can do, please let me know."

 

"Thank you, Krystina.  But there's nothing anybody can do.  The only thing that can help is for those doctors to find a matching heart for Jacob.  If they can, he might have a chance to live a relatively normal life. I did some reading on the internet about heart transplants in children.  It said that most are pretty successful."

 

"They are,"  Krystina says.  "I know from personal experience."

 

"What do you mean?"  Christopher asks.

Krystina lets out a deep sigh.  "When I was just 4-years-old, I became sick.  VERY sick.  And, I needed a heart transplant.  Fortunately, I was able to get a heart at the last minute, or else I would've died.  But there was a woman named Sarah whose little girl had died, and she agreed to donate her little girl's heart so that I could live.  Long story short, I had the surgery, and I've lived a very normal and very healthy life since."

 

"Krystina, I had no idea."

 

"Not many people do.  At least not people who didn't know my family back then.  It's just not something I talk about.  There's never really been an occasion to until now.  Christopher..........you have to have faith.  Sometimes, miracles happen in ways that we least expect.  And sometimes they happen at the last minute when all hope seems lost.  I survived a heart transplant when I was 4-years-old and I'm here to talk about it now.  I just have this feeling that Jacob will, too."

 

"Thank you, Krystina, for telling me that,"  says Christopher.  

 

"You're welcome."

 

"Krystina, would you mind talking to Jacob about this?  Courtney and I and the doctors have done everything we can to try and explain to him what's going on, but, I think it would mean more, and help him more if it came from someone who's been through the same thing.  Someone who survived a heart transplant."

 

Krystina smiles.  "I'd be more than happy to talk to him.  I'll go and visit him later today."

 

"Thanks."

 

"I'm gonna go check on the kids and get changed.  I'll see you in a bit."

 

Christopher nods.  Krystina turns and walks away from him toward the house.

The Krebbs Ranch....

 As Donna sets the table in the Krebbs kitchen for breakfast the next morning, Ray is on the phone to Bobby.  "Yeah, Bob, you tell Christopher and Courtney that we're thinkin' about 'em and we're hard for little Jacob.  We'll try and come by the hospital later to see him.  Okay.  And Bob, if you or Christopher or Courtney need anything, all you gotta do is call.  Yeah, I'll talk to you later.  Bye."  

 

"Any change in Jacob's condition?"  Donna asks.

 

"No,"  Ray replies with a sigh.  "If they don't find a heart for Jacob soon, the boy could die."

 

"Oh, God.  Poor Christopher and Courtney.  I can't even imagine what they must be going through.  To have your child fighting for his life so young."

 

"I know. Any parent's worst nightmare."

 

Conner walks into the kitchen.  "Morning,"  he says, taking his seat at the table.

 

"Good morning,"  says Donna.  "There's some eggs on the stove."

 

"Thanks,"  Conner says as Dylan walks in.

 

"Morning, everyone,"  Dylan says cheerfully.

 

"You sure seem in a good mood today,"  says Ray.

 

"Yeah, you must be spending the day with Ashley again,"  Conner says. 

 

Dylan smiles.  "I am.  She's coming over later, and we're gonna spend the day together."

 

Conner looks at his brother.  "This is really gettin' serious with you two, isn't it?"

 

Dylan nods.  "Yeah, I think it is.  I really like her, and she makes me happier than I ever thought I could be. In fact, I don't think I've ever really been truly happy in my life, but I like the way this feels.  Who'd have thought that getting stabbed and almost killed on New Year's Eve would've led to this?"

 

"Well, you know what they say.  The Good Lord works in mysterious ways,"  says Donna.

 

"Yes, He does, and I'm real happy for ya, little brother,"  says Conner.  "If anybody deserves someone to make 'em happy, it's you."

 

"Thanks, Conner, that means a lot.  Now, you just need to find someone yourself, and we'll be all set."

 

Conner laughs.  "Yeah, well, I'm not holdin' my breath for that one.  But as long as my little brother's happy, I'm good."

 

"Hey, you, two,"  Donna says.  "Breakfast is getting cold."

 

"And I'm starved,"  Dylan says as a knock sounds at the back door.  

 

"I'll get that,"  Conner says.  He walks over to the door and opens it to find Ben Murray.   "Well, Ben.  Come in."

 

"Thanks,"  Ben says, walking into the house.  "Mornin', everybody."

 

"Mornin', Ben,"  says Ray.  "Have some breakfast?"

 

"Oh, no, thank ya, Mr. Krebbs. I just came by to deliver this month's feed bill,"  Ben says, handing the bill to Ray. "Mr. Osborne just delivered 20 bags of feed.  Me and Charley are gonna start unloadin' 'em when I get back to the barn."

 

"Hold on, and let me eat a bite, and I'll help you guys,"  Conner says.

 

"Okay.  Oh, and, would it be okay that I took the rest of the day off after we're done?"  Ben asks.  "I'd like to go into Dallas with my brother Gavin and visit Jacob in the hospital."

 

"Sure, that's fine with me it's okay with Conner,"  Ray says.

 

"Of course,"  Conner says.  "How's he doing, by the way?"  

 

"Not so good,"  Ben says.  "Courtney said the doctor told them that Jacob's gettin' sicker every day that passes that he doesn't get that heart transplant."

 

"Real sorry to hear that, Ben,"  Dylan says.

 

"Yeah, so am I,"  says Conner.

 

"Thanks."

 

"Ray and I are planning on coming by the hospital later today ourselves,"  says Donna.  

 

"And we're prayin' real hard for little Jacob,"  Ray says.  

 

"Thank you, Mr. Krebbs, I'm sure Courtney and Christopher appreciate that.  Well, I'm gonna go get started on those bags of feed."

 

"I'll be there in about five minutes,"  Conner says.

 

Ben nods and then leaves.  

 

"Well, all I can say is.......wow,"  Dylan remarks.  "Talk about a complete change in someone."

 

"Yeah.  Ben's really come a long way,"  says Conner.  "He's like a totally different person now than he was just a few months ago.  And ya know what?  I really like the guy."

Downtown Dallas....later....

 Jenna and Andrew Murray are sitting down to coffee at a cafe in downtown Dallas late in the morning.  "The coffee here is delicious," Andrew says, taking a sip of his.

 

Jenna smiles.  "Yes it is.  I always love coming here."

 

Andrew looks at her and smiles.  "I just can't believe my good luck."

 

"Good luck?  What do you mean?"  Jenna asks.

 

"Well, running into you again the way we did the other day.  That first day I saw you, I was immediately captivated."

 

"Well, thank you.  And I'm very glad that you invited me for coffee and brunch this morning."

 

"That day we first bumped into each other, you were with a young man.  You said that was your son?"

 

"Yes, that's right.  Lucas Ewing."

 

The smile fades from Andrew's face upon hearing that name.  "Excuse me, Jenna, but did you say your son's last name is Ewing?"

 

"Yes, I did."

 

"Any relation to Bobby and Ann Ewing?"  Andrew asks.

 

"Why yes.  Bobby is Lucas's father."

 

Sipping on his coffee, Andrew almost chokes on it when Jenna tells him Bobby Ewing is her son's father.  

 

"Andrew, are you alright?"  Jenna asks, handing him a napkin.

 

"Yes, I'm fine.  Did you say that Bobby Ewing is your son's father?"  Andrew asks, coughing.

 

"Yes,"  replies Jenna.  "You know Bobby?"

 

"You might say that.  Well, I'll be damned.  So, you were married to Bobby Ewing?"

 

"No.  Bobby and I weren't married.  We were engaged and were about to be married when..........well, it's a long and complicated story, but, some things came between us and we never got married.  Bobby went back to his first wife, his son Christopher's mother, and, then I found out I was pregnant with Lucas."

 

"That had to be rough,"  Andrew says.  

 

"It was.  And speaking of Bobby and his family, I really should be going soon.  They're going through something really terrible right now, and I'd like to go by the hospital and offer Christopher and his wife Courtney my support."

 

"Your support?  Why?  What's wrong?"  Andrew asks.

 

"Courtney's son Jacob, Christopher's stepson, is in the hospital."

 

"In the hospital?  My God, what's wrong with him?"

 

Jenna sighs.  "His heart.  It's very serious.  The poor child is in urgent need of a heart transplant, and they're having a hard time finding  a match because he has a rare blood type or something.  It's very sad.  I feel for them."

 

Andrew is visibly shaken by the news that his own grandson is in the hospital in serious condition.  

 

"Andrew, are you alright?"  Jenna asks, noticing that his hands are trembling.

 

"Yes, I'm fine, I just.........I'm very sorry to hear about the boy."

 

"So am I.  It's a tragic situation and I certainly pray that a suitable heart is found in time."

 

"Jenna, when did all of this happen?"  Andrew asks, his voice shaky.

 

"A few days ago.  Jacob passed out at school and they rushed him to the hospital.  Tests showed that he had a severely weakened heart."

 

"Poor kid,"  Andrew says.  

 

"Yes.  Andrew, you never did tell me how you know Bobby."

 

"Not really,"  Andrew says.  "I, uh, well, you can't very well live in Texas without knowing about the Ewings."

 

"That's true,"  Jenna says. 

 

"Umm, Jenna, I really hate to cut this short, but I have something that I've got to do.  Something important I have to take care of."

 

"Oh, of course.  I hope it's nothing serious."

 

"Yes, so do I,"  Andrew says, getting up from his seat.  "I'll, uh......I'll call you.  Soon,"  he nervously says, then quickly hurries away, leaving Jenna curious why Andrew's mood suddenly changed after learning of her connection to the Ewings.

Texas Health Presbyterian Hospital....afternoon....

 Courtney and Christopher are sitting at Jacob's bedside at the hospital when Krystina knocks at the door.  "Hi, can I come in?"  She asks.

 

"Krystina, of course you can,"  Courtney says with a smile.

 

Krystina walks into the room.  "Hi, Jacob, how do you feel?"

 

"Hi.  Kinda tired."

 

"Oh, is this a bad time?  I can come back later."

 

"No, no, not at all,"  Courtney says.  "Tired is pretty much normal for Jacob right now.  Please, come in."

 

Krystina walks over and takes a seat by the bed.  "I came back to Dallas a few days ago when John Ross told me.  I've been wanting to come by the hospital, but I didn't wanna get in the way.  I just wanted to show you both my love and support, and to give Jacob this."  Krystina hands the boy a gift bag.

 

"What is it?" he asks.

 

"Open it and find out."

 

Jacob reaches into the bag and pulls out several video games.  "Krystina, thanks!  These are some of my favorites."

 

"I'm glad.  I asked Michael which games you had, and he helped me choose which ones to get you."

 

Jacob looks at her.  "Thanks."

 

"You're welcome, sweety."

 

"Krystina, this means a lot,"  says Courtney.

 

"Well, I know a little something about what you guys are going through.  Jacob, I know you're scared.  But, as soon as they find you a new heart, you'll have that surgery, and you'll be just fine."

 

Jacob lowers his head, a sad look on his face. "I probably won't be able to do all the stuff I use to do, like riding my horse and playing ball. Riding my bike."

 

"What are you talking about, of course you will,"  says Krystina.  "Not at first, I mean, you're gonna have to take some time to recover.  But in time you'll be doing all the things you use to do.  I know, because..........I'm a heart transplant survivor myself."

 

Both Jacob and Courtney look at her in shock.  "Krystina, you?"  Courtney asks.

 

Krystina nods.  "That's right."

 

"You had a heart transplant?"  Jacob asks.

 

"Yes, I did,"  Krystina replies.  "When I was even younger than you are now."

 

"Can you tell us about it?"  Courtney asks.

 

"Sure.  I was very young, so I don't remember a whole lot about this myself, but my parents have told me this story many times over the years, so I know it by heart, no pun intended.  When I was just turning 4-years-old, I suddenly became very sick.  Doctors told my parents that I needed a new heart.  So there was this woman, her name was Sarah Curtis.  Her little girl had just died, and Sarah agreed to donate her child's heart to me, so that I could live......"

 "Senator I wanna thank you for agreeing to meet with me on such short notice, and for coming up on a weekend,"  Allison says as she welcomes Senator Bill Watson into her office that afternoon.

 

"It's no problem, Allison, it sounded urgent,"  Senator Watson says.  "And it must be, for you to wanna meet on a Saturday afternoon."

 

"It is.  I'll get right to the point.  Senator, I'm afraid that I'm gonna have to withdraw as a member of the Oil Regulatory Commission."

 

"Withdraw?"  Watson asks, surprised.  "Allison, I don't understand.  You lobbied very hard for that position."

 

"Yes, I know, but something has come up that makes it impossible for me to serve.  Something personal."

 

"Anything you can discuss?"

 

"I'm afraid not.  And, I'm afraid that I also must withdraw my support for Cliff Barnes as head of the ORC."

 

"Okay, Allison, what the hell is going on here?"  Bill asks.  "This whole Commission was your baby, you and Cliff's.  Now suddenly you're turning on it AND him?  Why?"

 

"My reasons for withdrawing my support for Cliff are simple.  He cannot be trusted to carry out the duties of the ORC objectively.  His decades-old war with the Ewings will undoubtedly cause Cliff to target Ewing Oil and single them out as head of the Commission."

 

"You didn't seem to think so a week ago, so what changed?  There's more to this than you're telling."

 

"No, Senator, I assure you, there's not.  I simply had a change of heart.  And I implore you to please reconsider appointing Barnes to that position.  The ORC should be a completely objective and fair organization, above reproach and its members should be people who cannot be bought off, bribed, or blackmailed."

 

"I agree,"  Bill says.  

 

"Then you will reconsider Barnes's appointment?"  Allison asks.

 

"Cliff promised me that he would be objective if given that appointment."

 

 

"Cliff Barnes has made that promise before, Senator.  I have come to the conclusion that Mr. Barnes only wants this appointment to have the power to hurt the Ewings and their company."

 

"I suppose you're right.  I really should have given this more thought instead of blindly trusting Cliff just because he and I were in school together.  Alright.  I'll talk to the other committee members and see what they have to say first thing Monday morning."

 

"Thank you, Senator,"  Allison says, breathing a cautious sigh of relief.  

 

"But, Allison, I really do wish that you would reconsider serving on the ORC."

 

"Thank you, Senator, but I just can't at this time."

 

Bill nods.  "Alright, then,"  he says, standing from his seat.  "I'll speak to the committee and get back to you.  And while I'm here in Dallas, I really think I should speak to Cliff."

 

Allison's heart skips a beat.  "Do you really think that's wise?  Naturally, Cliff deny that he'll use the Commission for his own purposes."

 

"Of course he will.  But, as an old friend, I feel I owe it to Cliff to give him this news in person.  Would you like to accompany me?"

 

"Thank you, Senator, but I can't,"  Allison says.  "I have my nephew with me, and he's watching a movie while waiting for me in the conference room down the hall."

 

"Oh, yeah, I saw him on the way in.  Cute kid.  I'll be in touch.  Good day, Allison."

 

"Senator,"  Allison says as Bill leaves the office.  Allison closes the door behind him and lets out a deep sigh.  "Damn it,"  she says angrily to herself.

Texas Health Presbyterian Hospital....

Gavin and Ben walk into the front lobby at Texas Health Presbyterian Hospital that afternoon.  As the two brothers make their way to the elevator, Ben looks down the hall and happens to spot their father, Andrew.  "Oh, boy,"  Ben says.

 

"What?"  Gavin asks.

 

"Take a look."

 

Gavin looks down the hall and sees Andrew waiting for another elevator.  An angry look comes over the young man's face and he quickly heads down the hall to confront his father.  Ben follows.  "Dad,"  Gavin calls out as he and his brother approach him.

 

Andrew looks up and sees the two headed toward him.  He walks over to meet them.  

 

"Dad, what are you doing here?"  Gavin asks.

 

"I heard about Courtney's son,"  Andrew replies.  "Why the hell didn't one of you call me and tell me that my grandson is in the hospital?"

 

"Because we knew that Courtney wouldn't want you here,"  Ben tells his father.

 

"Dad, you HAVE to get out of here,"  says Gavin.  "Courtney and Christopher are dealing with enough right now.  The last thing they need is to have to deal with you, too."

 

"That kid up there is my grandson."

 

"A grandson that you don't even know.  If you care anything about this family, you will leave."

 

Andrew looks at his two sons for a moment.  "Alright, I'll go,"  he says.  "But you've got to promise me that you'll keep me informed about what's going on with Jacob's condition."

 

"Yes, fine, I will,"  Gavin says.

 

"You have my number.  Call me."  Andrew turns and walks away.

 

"Well, that was a close call,"  says Ben.  "If he'd gone upstairs, and if Christopher had seen him, I'd hate to think what might've happened."

 

"Yeah, I know.  Come on.  Let's go up and see Jacob, and not a word to Courtney about Dad bein' here."

 

"Not a word,"  Ben says.  The elevator doors open.  After two women get off the elevator, the brothers get on, and the doors close behind them.  

 

A couple of minutes later, Gavin and Ben knock on Jacob's door upstairs.  "Come in,"  Courtney says.  

 

The two brothers walk into the room, where Courtney and Krystina are sitting with Jacob.  "Hey,"  Gavin says.  "Is Jacob up for two more visitors?"

 

"Of course, come in,"  says Courtney.  

 

"Hey, buddy,"  Ben says as he walks over to Jacob's bed.

 

"Hey, man," Jacob says.  

 

"Krystina, you know my brothers, right?"  Courtney asks.  "Gavin and Ben?"

 

"Yes, I do.  Courtney, I'm gonna get out of here and let you guys visit.  Jacob, I'll be back to see you soon."

 

"Okay."

 

Krystina leans down and kisses the boy on the forehead.  "I love you."

 

"Love you, too."

 

"Bye, Krystina, and thanks for coming,"  Courtney says.

 

Krystina smiles.  "You're welcome.  Gavin, Ben, it's nice to see you both again,"  she says, then leaves the room.  

 

"How ya feel, buddy?"  Gavin asks his nephew.

 

"Tired.  All the time."

 

Ben takes a seat beside Jacob's bed.  "Well, you're gonna have to get well and get outta this hospital so me and you can play GTA 5 again.  And go ridin'."

 

Jacob looks up at him and smiles.  "Can't wait."

 

"Yeah, me either,"  says Ben.

 

"Courtney, where's Christopher?"  Gavin asks.

 

"I hope he's still asleep.  He went out to Southfork early this morning to get some more clothes and things for us, and when he got back he was exhausted.  Mitch Cooper, chief of staff here, who also happens to be Christopher's cousin's ex-husband, arranged for him to get some sleep in a room down the hall.  He agreed as long as I agreed to get some sleep after him.  Neither of us have had more than a couple hours sleep since Jacob got sick."

 

"You got a really good husband there, sis,"  Ben says.  

 

"I know I do.  I couldn't ask for better,"  Courtney says as a knock comes at the door.  "Come in."

 

 

Joseph walks into the room.  "Hey.......oh, I'm sorry, I didn't realize Jacob had visitors."

 

"No, Joseph, it's alright, come in,"  Courtney says.  "Joseph, I'd like for you to meet my brothers, Gavin, and Ben Murray.  Guys, this is Joseph Gioberti..........Jacob's biological father."

 

The two young men look at Joseph.  "You're Jacob's father?"  Gavin asks.

 

"Yes, I am.  It's nice to meet you guys,"  Joseph says.

 

"Yeah, you, too,"  Gavin says, shaking his hand.  

 

 

 

A Gamestop in Braddock....

Michael is looking at some video games on a shelf in a GameStop store in a Braddock shopping center late in the afternoon.  As he takes a game down from the shelf and looks at it, Casey Myers, who is browsing games nearby, sees Michael and walks over.  

 

 

"Well, look who's here,"  Casey says.  "Mikey."

 

Michael turns around and looks at him and sighs.  "Casey,"  he says.

 

"What are you doin' here, Mikey?  You actually know how to play video games?  I thought you were still watching Sesame Street and wetting the bed."

 

"I'm surprised to see you here, Casey,"  says Michael.  "You really know how to play video games?  I didn't think you even knew how to read."

 

"Hey, you want the crap beat out of you right here, Mikey?"

 

Meanwhile, browsing the games across the room, Alex spots Michael and Casey, and from the looks of it, the other kid is giving his cousin a hard time.  Alex walks over to the two boys.  "Hey, what's goin' on over here?"  He asks.  "Everything okay, Michael?"

 

"Yeah, everything's fine,"  Michael replies.  "Now, what were you saying, Casey?  You were gonna beat the crap outta me right here?  Still gonna do that with my cousin here?"

 

 

 

 

 

 

"Oh, you gotta have your big cousin fight your battles, Mikey?"  Casey asks.  

 

 

Alex looks at the other boy.  "You must be Casey."

 

"Yeah, you've heard of me?"

 

"Sure have.  You're the bully who's been giving my cousin a hard time at school.  And I want that to stop."

 

Casey laughs.   "Oh yeah?  What are YOU gonna do about it?"

 

"You wanna pick on somebody?"  Alex asks.  "Try pickin' on ME, and see what happens.  Same thing's gonna happen if I hear of you messin' with my cousin again."

 

"Dude, how old are you?  18?"  Casey asks.  "You lay a hand on me, and I'll have your ass in jail."

 

"Do I look like I'm scared, kid?"  Alex asks.

 

"Well just try me, then,"  Casey says.  Taking his hand, he shoves Alex backward, much to the surprise of Michael, who didn't think Casey was brave enough to mess with his older cousin.

 

Alex laughs at the boy.  Looking past Casey, he sees a display set up on the floor.  Alex walks toward Casey, almost touching him in the chest with the front of his body.  As Casey backs away from Alex, he trips over the display and falls to the floor, flat on his back.  Michael laughs.

 

For a couple seconds, Casey is stunned as he looks up at Alex and Michael.  "You're gonna be sorry you did that!"  Casey says.

 

"Sorry for what?"  Alex asks.  "I never laid a hand on you."

 

"What's the matter, Casey?"  Michael asks with a laugh.  "Can't stand on your own two feet?"

 

At that moment, Allison walks into the store.  Seeing her nephew on the floor, she panics.  "Oh my God!  Casey!"  She exclaims, rushing over to him.  "What happened to you?"

 

"This guy pushed me,"  Casey replies as Allison helps him to his feet.

 

"I did NOT push him,"  says Alex.

 

"Sure didn't,"  Michael says.  "Never touched him."

 

"He's lying, Aunt Allison,"  Casey says.

 

"Just who the hell do you think you are, pushing a 12-year-old child around like that?"  Asks an angry Allison.  

 

"Like I said, I never touched him.  He tripped and fell, and there are witnesses.  Excuse me, sir,"  Alex says to a man nearby.

 

"Yes?"

 

"Did you see me push this kid?"

 

"No, sure didn't,"  the man replies.  "I saw the kid trip over that display there, that's all."

 

"Thanks,"  Alex says.  He looks at Allison and smiles.

 

"He made me trip, Aunt Allison,"  says Casey.  "And Ewing here thought it was funny."

 

Allison looks at Casey, her mouth open in shock upon hearing the name Ewing.  She looks at the two boys.  "Your name is........Ewing?"

 

"Mine is Walton, actually,"  Alex replies.  "Michael's last name is Ewing."

"Walton?  You're John Ross Ewing's son, aren't you?"  Allison asks.

 

"That's right."

 

Allison looks at him and nods.  "Figures.  You're a bully, just like your father."

 

"How do you even know my father?"  Alex asks.

 

"Well, like many people around these parts, the Ewings have tried to push me around.  But I'll be damned if I'll let you push my nephew around."

 

"Then I suggest you tell your NEPHEW to stay the hell away from my cousin,"  Alex says.  "Come on, Michael.  Let's get out of here.  We'll go to the GameStop in Dallas."  

 

Allison and Casey watch as Alex and Michael leave the store.  "I'm gonna get that Michael Ewing,"  Casey says.  "Just wait til Monday at school."

 

"NO,"  Allison says forcefully.  "Casey, I want you to stay away from those Ewings,"  she continues, a look of fear on her face.  "Stay far away from them."

 

"But Aunt Allison......."

 

"Casey, just do as I say!  I don't want you to go anywhere near anyone named Ewing."

 

Casey looks at his aunt curiously.

 

Meanwhile, Alex and Michael walk out of the store and get into Alex's Ford Eclipse.  "Dude, that was GREAT seein' Casey go down,"  Michael says as he buckles his seat belt in Alex's car.  "But, you don't think that lady's gonna do anything, do you?  Like, have you arrested or anything?"

 

"For WHAT?"  Alex asks.  "You saw what happened.  I didn't touch him.  He tripped.  Of course I kinda HELPED him trip, but I still never touched him.  But hey, if he messes with you again, I want you to let me know."

 

"Sure will,"  says Michael.  Alex starts his vehicle and the cousins drive away.  

Adair's Saloon in Dallas....

 John Ross walks into Adair's Saloon late in the afternoon and looks around.  Spotting Bum seated at a table, he walks over and sits down across from him.  "Bum,"  he says.  ''What've you got for me?"

 

"Just a little something I thought you might find interesting,"  Bum replies.  "I followed Kimberly Cryder like you asked me to.  This morning, Mrs. Cryder met with this man."  Bum opens a large envelope on the table and pulls out three photos, showing them to John Ross.  "And, not even an hour later, she met up with this woman."  Bum opens another envelope and takes out another group of photos.  

 John Ross takes the photos and looks at them.  "Okay, so who the hell ARE these people?"  He asks.  

 

 

 

"Well, now, that's where things REALLY get interesting,"  Bum says.  He reaches into one of the envelopes and brings out a piece of paper, which he slides over to John Ross.  

John Ross looks at the papers for a moment, a confused expression on his face. "Dr. Henry Pratt?  Bum, maybe I'm bein' stupid here, but am I supposed to know who that is?"

 

"Dr. Henry Pratt is an OBGYN.  He used to be on staff at Texas Health Presbyterian, but now he has his own practice over in Fort Worth."

 

"And the woman?"  John Ross asks.

 

"Stephanie Powell.  She use to be Dr. Pratt's nurse.  She left his employ in 2011."

 

"Okay, so, Dr. Pratt and Nurse Powell.  Any idea why Kimberly Cryder met with these two?"

 

"Take a look at that one photo,"  Bum says, pointing to one of the pictures on the table.

 

John Ross looks at it closely.  "Is that.......looks like she's givin' Pratt somethin'.  Money, maybe?"

 

"That's what I was thinkin'."

 

"Why would Kimberly be payin' off some doctor and his former nurse?"

 

"I got a couple of my men checkin' into this doctor as we speak,"  says Bum.  "John Ross, this might not mean anything, but I did some checkin' myself, and Pratt was the doctor that delivered Karen and Jeffrey Myers's son Casey back in 2006.  Now like I said, it might not mean anything, but, it just struck me as kinda strange........Kimberly Cryder and Allison Jones havin' that clandestine meetin' the other night, and now Kimberly lookin' like she's payin' money to the doctor and nurse who delivered the son of Allison's sister and the late Jeffrey Myers."

 "There's gotta be a connection,"  John Ross says.  

 

"I agree."

 

 

"Bum, make it your top priority to find out what that connection is.  Can't be a coincidence.  And somehow, this has all got to tie in to Jeffrey Myers's suicide.  And I wanna know how, ASAP, and I do mean immediately."

 

"I'm on it,"  says Bum.

 

"Good.  Whatever secret this is Allison and Kimberly are hidin'.........I think it's just what I need to keep Allison Jones off that Commission, and in my pocket for as long as I wanna keep her there."  John Ross smiles deviously.

Cliff and Afton's apartment....

"Bill, I don't believe you're doin' this to me!"  Cliff rants after Senator Bill Watson informs him that he is off the new ORC.  "After all the years we've known each other.  Hell, I've known you since we were in junior high school together back in 1959 and 1960 and now you're stabbing me in the back like this?"

 

"Cliff, I'm sorry,"  Bill says.  "But after speaking to Allison Jones, I feel that we cannot go on with your appointment as head of the ORC.  We need someone for this position who'll be objective and not use the job as a means to wage a personal war or get revenge on the Ewings."

 

"I told you that I would NOT do that,"  Cliff says.  "I will carry out my duties objectively."

 

"Allison feels otherwise, and I should've realized that your feud with the Ewings would get in the way."

 

"Allison?  So she's the one who convinced you to remove me as head of the ORC?  What, is she campaigning for the job herself?"

 

"No, Allison has resigned from the ORC."

 

"She......she WHAT?  Why would she do that?  She was so excited about serving."

 

"She claims personal reasons.  Reasons she couldn't get into."

 

"Wait a minute,"  Cliff says.  "Wait a damned minute here.  It all makes perfect sense now."

 

"Cliff, what are you talking about?"  Bill asks.  

 

"This whole things smells of the Ewings.  The Ewings somehow got to Allison and either coerced her or forced her into stepping down from the ORC and blackballing me."

 

"Cliff, come on, that's ridiculous,"  Bill says.  "You think everything bad that happens is because of the Ewings.  You're as bad as the Democrats blaming Donald Trump for everything evil in the world."

 

"Because I know the Ewings, and this is EXACTLY the kind of thing John Ross would do.  It's a J.R. move if I ever saw one."

 

"Allison doesn't like the Ewings, either, so why would she cave to them?  It's ridiculous."

 

"No it's not,"  says Cliff.  "Not if the Ewings have something on her.  If they're BLACKMAILING her."

 

"Cliff, now you're just sounding paranoid, which is another reason you don't need to serve as head of the ORC."

 

"Bill, look, just give me some time before you make this decision.  Let me look into what happened."

 

"I'm sorry, Cliff, but the decision has been made.  I'll be speaking to the rest of the Senate Committee first thing Monday morning."

 

"And that's your last word?"  Cliff asks.

 

"I'm afraid so."

 

"Okay, then you can get the hell out of my apartment."

 

"Now, Cliff......."

 

"Get out, Bill.  So much for longtime friends."

 

Bill looks at him, then nods and leaves.  

 

"Damn it,"  Cliff says angrily.

Karen Myers's home, Braddock....

 Allison and Casey walk into the Myers home in Braddock early in the evening.  "Casey, is that you?"  Karen Myers calls from the kitchen.

 

"Yeah, Mom, I'm home,"  Casey replies.  

 

Karen comes into the living room from the kitchen and sees her son and her sister.  "Hi.  Did you have a good time with your Aunt Allison?"

 

"Yeah, I did.  Aunt Allison bought me some new games."

 

Karen looks at her sister disapprovingly.  

 

"We went by GameStop on the way home,"  Allison says.

 

"Casey, why don't you go on up to your room?"  Karen asks.

 

"Okay.  Thanks for having me over, Aunt Allison."

 

"You're welcome, sweetheart,"  Allison says, kissing her nephew on the head.  "I enjoyed it.  Maybe your Mom will let you come over again next weekend, and maybe you can stay til Sunday."

 

"Can I, Mom?"  Casey asks.  

 

"We'll see.  Go on up to your room."

 

The boy sighs, then does as his mother tells him.  

 

"Well, you did it again, didn't you?"  Karen asks.  

 

"Look, sis, if you're going to lecture me about the games I bought for Casey, please don't.  I've had a hard enough day."

 

"Allison, I've asked you to respect my position on this."

 

"Karen, what was I supposed to do when Casey asked me if we could go by GameStop on the way home?  Then when he asked me for those games?"

 

"Well, uh how about 'NO'?"  Karen asks.

 

"You know I could never say no to that boy,"  Allison says.

 

"Yes, and that's the problem.  You keep spoiling Casey when he's with you, then you bring home and the rest of the week he's so spoiled I can't do a damn thing with him.  Allison, until you learn how to respect my position as far as Casey is concerned, I'm afraid he won't be spending the night with you anymore."

 

"Karen, you've got to be kidding me,"  Allison says.  "Just because I like to give Casey nice things."

 

"Allison, listen to yourself.  You don't just give Casey nice things, you give him EVERYTHING he wants.  And because of that, he's becoming a rude, spoiled brat."

 

"That's ridiculous, I don't believe that.  Casey is the sweetest kid."

 

"That's because he only shows you that side of him.  When he's around you, he puts on this sweet little angel act, but when you're not here, Allison, he talks back to me, he throws tantrums when he doesn't get his way, and I've even heard complaints from school that he bullies other children."

 

"I don't believe that."

 

"Allison, you enable Casey's bad behavior, and I have to put a stop to that right now.  Casey is MY son, not yours, and I will raise him any way I see fit.  If you wanna see Casey, you can come here to see him, when I'm here."

 

"This is COMPLETE BS, Karen.  I'm only trying to help you raise your son.  Maybe if you'd give Casey the kind of love and attention he needs, he wouldn't have to act that way to get your attention."

 

"How dare a woman who's never had children say that to me!"  Karen angrily snaps.  "Allison, I want you to leave.  Now!"

 

"You wouldn't even have Casey if it weren't for me, and this is the thanks I get for everything I've done for you!?" Allison asks.  

 

Karen looks at her sister, puzzled. "What do you mean, I wouldn't even have Casey if it weren't for you?"

 

"Nothing.  Never mind,"  Allison says.  

 

"No, I wanna know what you meant by that."

 

Allison looks at her sister.  "Trust me........you don't,"  she says, then leaves without another word.  

 

Casey comes down the stairs.  "Mom, what's going on?"  The boy asks.  "Did I hear you tell Aunt Allison to leave?"

 

 

"Yes, Casey, I did."

 

"But why?  What were you guys fighting about?"

 

"Casey, that's none of your concern.  Go back to your room."

 

"NO,"  Casey says.  "I wanna know why you made Aunt Allison leave."

 

"Casey, go to your room!"

 

"I hate you!"  The boy says.  "You're just jealous because I'd rather spend time with Aunt Allison than with you!  She's fun, at least!"  Casey storms out of the room as Karen begins to cry.

 

Meanwhile, Allison gets into her car.  As she sits in the Myers driveway looking at her sister's home, she also begins to cry.  Just then, her cell phone rings.  Taking her phone from her purse, she looks at it and sighs deeply.......Cliff Barnes calling.  She answers the call.  "Cliff, this is NOT a good time."

 

"Well, that's just too damned bad,"  an angry Cliff says on the other end of the line.  "You and I have some business.  Just what the hell was that about, you stepping down from the ORC and telling Bill Watson that I was unfit to head the Commission because I couldn't be objective when it comes to the Ewings?"

 

"Cliff, you and I both know that's true."

 

"So what was all that talk about getting revenge on the Ewings?"

 

"I have my reasons, Cliff.  You're just gonna have to accept that."

 

"Yeah, well I DON'T accept it.  The Ewings are blackmailing you, aren't they?  Come on, what do they have on you?"

 

"Nothing, Cliff, just let it go,"  Allison says.

 

"Well, I'm sorry, my dear, but I'm not gonna do that.  Because I KNOW the Ewings were somehow behind your sudden change of heart.  You won't tell me what they have on you?  Then I'll find out myself,"  Cliff says, then hangs up on her.

 

"Cliff?"  Allison calls to him.  "CLIFF?  Damn!  Can this day get any worse?"

Texas Health Presbyterian Hospital....

 

"Are you finished with your dinner tray?"  A nurse asks Jacob as she walks into his room.  

 

"Yes, ma'am."

 

"Oh, you hardly ate anything."

 

"I wasn't hungry,"  Jacob says.

 

"Well, can I get you anything?"  The nurse asks.

 

"No, thank you,"  Jacob replies, experiencing a shortness of breath.

 

The young nurse smiles at him.  "Okay.  Well, I'll just get this out of your way,"  she says.  She picks the tray up from the table, and as she is leaving the room, Christopher and Courtney are coming in with Alex and Michael.  

 

"Hey," Christopher says.  "We brought you some more company."

 

"Hey, what's up, lil' dude?"  Alex asks, walking over to Jacob's bed.

 

"Hey, man."

 

"Alex and I went to GameStop and bought you a few more games."

 

"Thanks,"  Jacob says, his voice weak and low, sounding as if he's struggling to breathe.  

 

 

"Jacob, sweety, what's wrong?"  Courtney asks, noticing her son's struggle.  

 

"I......don't know,"  Jacob replies.  "I....... can't breathe.  My......chest......hurts."

 

"Christopher get the nurse!"  Courtney says.

 

Christopher quickly rushes out of the room.  Courtney tries to make Jacob more comfortable as Alex and Michael look on, worried about their cousin.  A moment later, Christopher returns with Mitch and a nurse.

 

"Okay, I'm gonna have to ask that you all leave,"  Mitch says.  "Nurse, page Dr. Eubanks, STAT!"

 

"Courtney, come on,"  Christopher tells his wife.  "Boys, let's go."

 

Reluctantly, a terrified Courtney leaves Jacob's room with Christopher, Alex, and Michael.  Courtney stands in the hallway outside her son's room and watches through the window as Mitch and the nurse examine Jacob, and the nurse places an oxygen mask over the boy's face to help him breathe.  

A short time later....

Christopher, Courtney, Alex, and Michael are sitting in a waiting room just down the hall from Jacob's room when Mitch and Dr. Eubanks walk in.  "Christopher, Courtney, can we see you in the hall?"  Mitch asks, not wanting Alex and especially Michael to hear what they are saying.  

 

"Mitch, Dr. Eubanks, what's going on?"  Christopher asks, he and Courtney following the two men into the hallway.

 

"Is Jacob alright?"  A frantic Courtney asks.

 

Mitch and Dr. Eubanks look at the frightened parents.  "Jacob's condition has taken a turn for the worse,"  Mitch replies.

 

"What does that mean?"  Courtney asks.  

 

"Jacob has suffered cardiac arrest,"  says Dr. Eubanks.  

 

"Oh my God."

 

"We're moving Jacob to our Critical Care Unit,"  Dr. Eubanks says.  "Time of the absolute essence now."

 

"Dr. Eubanks......what are you saying?"  Christopher asks.  

 

"Jacob's heart is failing.  If we don't get a heart soon, and I mean within the next 48 hours.........."

 

Christopher and Courtney exchange looks, then look at the doctors.  "Are you saying that, if Jacob doesn't get a new heart in 48 hours........he's gonna die?"

 

The two doctors hesitate a moment.  "I'm very sorry, Christopher,"  says Mitch.  "But yes.  Jacob's time is running out."

 

"No, NO,"  Courtney cries.  "God, this can't be happening.  I can't lose my son!"  As she cries, Christopher puts his arms around his wife and embraces her. 

 

Standing in the doorway of the waiting room, Alex and Michael watch, both of them with looks of concern on their faces.  "Alex, is Jacob gonna die?"  Michael asks.

 

"I don't know, man.  I don't know,"  Alex replies sadly.  

Southfork....

 As dusk settles over Southfork, Ann is in the kitchen brewing some tea when Bobby and Lucas come in from outside.  "You boys almost made a full day of it,"  Ann says.

 

"We had a lotta steer to move,"  Lucas says.  "Where's Heather?"

 

"Said she was gonna take a nap before dinner."

 

"Oh.  Well, I'm gonna go up and get a shower.  I think I'll take her and Michael out to dinner,"  Lucas says, then leaves the kitchen.

 

"House sure will seem empty at dinner tonight,"  says Ann.  "Lucy is out some place, Christopher and Courtney are at the hospital.  And I have no idea where John Ross, Krystina, and Alex are.  

 

"Well, looks like it might just be you and I for dinner tonight,"  Bobby says.  "Of course, I'm not complaining, I don't get to have dinner with just my wife very often.  But I'd give anything in the world if Jacob were at that dinner table tonight."

 

"So would I,"  Ann says.  

 

"Y'know, honey, I thought bein' out there, workin' on the ranch today would've helped take my mind off things, or at the very least clear my mind."

 

"But it didn't?"  

 

"No.  All I could think about all day was Jacob, and Christopher and Courtney.  This is so damned unfair.  Christopher and Courtney have been through so much, what with the miscarriage last year, and their separation.  They were FINALLY in a real good place in their lives, and this happens."

 

Ann nods.  "I know,"  she says as Bobby's cell phone rings.

 

He takes the phone from his pocket and looks at it.  "It's Christopher,"  he says, then quickly answers the call.  "Son, how's Jacob doin'?"  Bobby asks.  He listens for a few moments as Christopher speaks on the other end of the line.  "Oh no,"  Bobby finally sighs.  "Oh my God.  Yes.  Alright, Ann and I'll be there as soon as we can.  Son.....I love you.  Bye."  Bobby ends the call and puts his phone down.  

 

"Bobby, what is it?" Asks a worried Ann.  "Is it Jacob?"

 

Bobby nods.  "His condition has worsened.  His heart is failing fast, and if they don't find a new heart for him within 48 hours......."

 

"Oh God, Bobby, no,"  Ann gasps.  She begins to cry.  Bobby walks over to his wife and embraces her.  

 

"I'm gonna go up and get a quick shower,"  Bobby says.  "Then, we should get to the hospital. Be there for them."

 

"Of course.  I'll tell Lucas and Heather.  They'll probably wanna come, too."

 

Bobby nods, then leaves the room.

Somewhere in Dallas....

Bum comes out of Afon's Lounge later and takes out his cell phone, dialing John Ross's number.  Expecting, or at least hoping for Bum's call, John Ross answers after the first ring.  "John Ross, I got some information I knew you wanted right away.  That Dr. Pratt and Nurse Powell.......I managed to track down a former secretary who worked for Jeffrey Myers, and for five hundred bucks, she talked.  Turns out Myers had several meetings with Nurse Powell and the good doctor.  And.......here's the kicker.........Myers was paying both of them large sums of money on a yearly basis."

 Allison is sitting at Arnie's bar, finishing up a glass of vodka, her fourth.  "Hey, bartender.......gimme another,"  she says, her speech slurred.  

 

The young male bartender walks over to her.  "Don't you think you've had enough?"

 

"I have just had.......one of the worst days I've had in a LOOOONG time, so.......no. I have not had nearly enough.....so, gimme another,"  Allison says in a drunken voice.  "Or else I'll take my bus-i-ness........elsewhere."

 

"Okay, okay,"  the bartender says.  He pours her another shot of vodka, then walks to the other end of the bar, where he takes out his cell phone.  He dials Karen Myers's number, then waits for Karen to answer.

 

"Hello?"  Karen says when she answers the phone.  

 

"Hey, Karen, this is Jack."

 

"Jack, hey, how are you?  It's been a while.  What's up?"

 

"Karen, I'm sorry to bother you, but you might wanna come down to Arnie's Bar,"  Jack says.  "Your sister is here, and she's getting pretty wasted.  She's already had several glasses of vodka and she doesn't look like she's gonna stop any time soon."

Karen Myers's home....

"Great, JUST great,"  Karen says with a sigh.  "Okay, thanks, Jack.  I'll be there as soon as I can.  Bye."  Karen ends the call and puts her phone down.  "Damn it, Allison, why?  After all these years you've been sober."  Karen picks her phone up again and  dials a number.  After a few rings, a woman answers.  "Hi, Mrs. Snyder, it's Karen Myers from next door.  I have a huge favor to ask.  Something has come up and I have to go out for a while.  Would you mind coming over and staying with Casey until I get back?  I know he's 12, but I hate to leave him home alone on a Saturday night, and I don't know how long I'll be.  You sure you don't mind?  Okay, great, thanks."  Karen ends the call.  She walks up the stairs to Casey's room, the only room located on the small second floor of the house.  She knocks on her son's door, then opens it to find Casey laying on his bed pouting.  "Casey, I have to go out for a bit.  Mrs. Snyder from next door is coming over to stay with you until I get back."

 

"I don't need a baby sitter,"  Casey angrily says.  

 

"Well, tonight, you're gonna get one.  I'll be back as soon as I can."

 

"Don't hurry,"  the boy says.

 

Karen looks at him, shakes her head in frustration, then leaves the room.  

Texas Health Presbyterian Hospital....

 While Christopher, Bobby, Ann, Phyllis, Lucas, Heather,  Krystina, Lucy, Cole, Joseph, Ben,  and Gavin are sitting in a waiting room at the hospital, Courtney walks into the room.  Christopher stands and walks over to his wife.  "How is he?"

 

"Sleeping.  Mitch says sleep is the best thing for him right now, but, when he's sleeping, that's precious time we don't have with him."

 

"There's gotta be something we can do.  ANYTHING,"  Joseph says as he stands to his feet.

 

"Maybe there is,"  Christopher says.

 

"What?"  Courtney asks.  

 

"One thing we haven't thought of.  A direct appeal to the public.  We can get in touch with a television station, and maybe one of us go on the air and make an appeal.  Plead Jacob's case."

 

"Sounds like a good idea, but that's still not gonna help if they can't find a match,"  Joseph says.

 

"Well it's the only thing I know to do,"  says Christopher.

 

Ben walks over to them.  "Listen, Courtney, I think I'm gonna head on back to the ranch and get out of the way here.  If you need me, or if anything changes, call me?"

 

"I will, Ben, and thanks,"  Courtney says, hugging her brother.

 

 

"You're welcome.  Jacob's a strong little guy.  He's gonna be okay.  I'm gonna be prayin' extra hard for my nephew."

 

"I know."

 

"Ben, thanks for bein' here,"  Christopher says, shaking the young man's hand.

 

"You're welcome.  I'll be back tomorrow,"  Ben says.  He hugs Courtney again, then leaves.  

 

"I'm gonna go and call a friend of mine who works with channel 3 news,"  Christopher says.  

 

Courtney nods.  As Christopher leaves the room, Phyllis walks over to her daughter and puts her arms around her.  "I've never been this scared in my life, Mom,"  Courtney says.

 

"I know, baby,"  Phyllis says.  

Arnie's Bar in Braddock....

 Karen walks into Arnie's Bar and sees Allison sitting at the bar, still drinking vodka, and walks over to her.  "Okay, Allison, come on,"  she says.  "You've had enough.  Let's go."

 

"Well, if it isn't my baby sister,"  says a drunken Allison.  "Little Miss PERFECT."

 

"Okay, come on,"  Karen says.  "Jack, thanks for calling me."

 

Jack smiles at her.  "No problem, Karen.  Take care."

 

"You, too."  Karen puts her arm around her sister and helps her off the bar stool.

 

"Wait a minute, I don't wanna leave.  I wanna finish my drink."

 

"You ARE finished,"  Karen says.  "Let's go.  I'm taking you home." 

 

A moment later, Karen and Allison leave the bar, Karen almost carrying her sister as they make their way to Karen's car parked on the street.  Karen opens the passenger door and helps Allison in.  After buckling her sister's seat belt, Karen closes the door, then walks around the car and gets into the driver's side.  

 

"Why, Allison?"  Karen asks her.  "You've been sober for almost ten years.  Why on Earth would you start drinking again now?"

 

"Why not?"  Allison asks.  "Everything is going to hell.  EVERYTHING."

 

"What are you talking about?"  Karen asks as she starts her car.  Putting the car into drive, she pulls out of the parking space and onto the street.  

 

"Everything is just.......gone.  Gone, gone, GONE,"  Allison drunkenly says.  "All because of that damned ORC.  And the Ewings, of course."

 

"The Ewings?  What do the Ewings have to do with you falling off the wagon tonight?"

 

Allison laughs.  "Off the wagon, ON the wagon, what difference does it make when I have nothing left?"

 

"That's just crazy talk.  You have me and Casey."

A few minutes later.....a road in Braddock....

 

Karen and Allison are driving down a foggy rural road on the outskirts of Braddock as Karen is driving her sister home to Dallas.  "Damn, it's so foggy I can barely see,"  Karen says.

 

Allison laughs at the comment in her drunken state.  "Foggy.  Just like life."

 

"Allison, just tell me what this is all about.  Why, after all these years did you start drinking again?  Was it because of that fight we had about Casey?"

 

"Casey.......what a WOOOONderful kid.  I only wanted to help.  So I spoil him."

 

"I understand that.  But spoiling him is NOT helping."

 

"You're so.....ungrateful,"  Allison says.  "You wouldn't even have that kid if it weren't for me."

 

"Allison, that is the SECOND time you've said that to me tonight, now what the hell do you mean by that?"

 

"You really have noooo idea what I've done for you.  I've done everything for you."

 

"Yes, and I AM grateful for everything you've done,"  says Karen.  "But what did you mean about Casey?  Why wouldn't I have him if not for  you?  What does that even mean?  Casey's my son, Allison."

 

"Nope, nope nope, and NOPE,"  Allison says, seemingly drunker with each passing moment.  

 

"What do you mean?"

 

"Casey is NOT your kid.  Not at all."

 

"What are you talking about?  Of course he is.  You were at the hospital the night he was born."

 

"Oh, yeah I was there. That's how I know.......the truth."

 

"What TRUTH?"  Karen asks.

 

"And now they're gonna find out..... John Ross, and maybe Cliff.  Everyone is gonna find out what we did."

 

"Allison I want you to tell me RIGHT now what it is you're talking about?"

 

"Your baby died, Karen.  Right after it was born."

 

"What?   That's impossible!"

 

"Nope.  Jeffrey couldn't stand for you to be hurt, so, we paid that damned doctor to take another baby and replace yours with it.  Kimberly Cryder........damn her, too."

 

"What?  WHO is Kimberly Cryder?"

 

"Casey's grandmother, of course.  Her daughter Jill's baby...........Kimberly took the kid and your baby was dead so we gave you a healthy baby.  THAT baby."

 

Karen begins to cry.   "Allison, you don't know what you're saying.  Casey is MINE!"

 

"No, no.  He's not.  We switched.....the babies.  Ol' switcharooo.  Dr. Pratt was more than willing to go along with it for the money.  Money, money money.  EVERYBODY wants damned money,"  Allison says.  "And he and that bitch of a nurse, they bled poor Jeffrey dry until he couldn't take it anymore.  And he killed himself."

 

"Oh dear God,"  Karen cries.  "Allison, do you know what you're saying to me?  Is this true, or are you just saying all this because you're drunk, or because you wanna hurt me?"

 

"It's all true.  AAALLLLL of it.  True.  Poor Jeffrey.  They as good as killed him."

 

"Oh my God.  Allison, and you helped them switch babies?  You KNEW about this all these years and you kept this from me?"  Karen asks in tears, looking at her sister.  "How could you do that to me?"

 

Allison looks up, her mouth falling open in shock as she looks straight ahead.  Karen turns her head forward and 

sees another car's headlights coming directly for them, as Karen has crossed the center line of the highway while her eyes were off the road.  "AAHHHHHHHH!!!!! Karen screams in horror as she tries to swerve to miss the other vehicle, but it is too late.  Within a split second, the sound of the two cars colliding can be heard as Karen's car crashes head-on into the other car!!

 

 

 

 

 

 

END OF EPISODE 196....