Previously on DALLAS:
----------------The police questioned Jan about the tea she brought to Afton before Afton's collapse.
----------------John Ross told Bobby, Sue Ellen, and Christopher that they should team up with Jeremy Lord to bring down Katherine and Richard Channing. Bobby quickly vetoed the idea.
----------------Bum was hurt after his son, Steven rejected him.
----------------Brad went to Cliff and told him that Cliff could be his father.
Cliff's apartment....
"What did you just say?" He asks. "I'm not sure I heard you right."
"You heard me right, Mr. Barnes," Brad says.
"You think that I am your FATHER?"
"That's right."
"And.......what makes you think that?" Cliff asks. "Is that what Marilee told you?"
"No. My mother denied it."
"Then what makes you think that I'm your father?"
Cliff smiles. "Oh, Marilee told Katherine? So what happened then? Katherine came to you with this? Come on, kid, Katherine Wentworth is a born pathological liar. Nothing, and I mean NOTHING that comes out of that woman's mouth is the truth. I take it you asked Marilee about this?"
"I did, and she claimed that she lied to Katherine about you being my father in order to put an end to my relationship with your sister."
"Okay, there ya have it," says Cliff. "Marilee lied to Katherine, and for a damned good reason. Even if Katherine wasn't my half-sister, I'd never want a son of mine within a thousand miles of that viper."
"I don't believe for one minute that my mother was telling me the truth when she said lied to Katherine."
Cliff sighs. "Okay. So, now tell me.....what can I do to convince you that I am NOT your father?"
"The answer to that is simple......take a DNA test," Brad says.
"A DNA test? You want me to take a DNA test?"
"That's right. Then, I'll have the answers that I need."
Cliff looks at the young man, unsure of what to say or how to react to Brad's request.
Afton's Lounge.....evening
"Well," Jesse says, startling her.
"Jesse, what the hell do you want?" Jan asks, annoyed at his presence.
"And what business is that of yours?"
"None at all. Like I said, I'm just surprised to see that you had the nerve to show up here, that's all."
"And why WOULDN'T I show up? I do still work here, after all."
"For now, anyway," Jesse says.
"Meaning?"
"Word has it that you took Afton some poison tea last night. Sent her to the hospital."
"You sure about that? Sure you aren't just hoping Afton won't be able to go on tomorrow night, so that you can get up on that stage in her place?"
"You know, Jesse, you're really sick. And if I were you, I'd be careful."
"Careful? Careful of what?" Jesse asks.
"Of making a mistake, which you're bound to do sooner or later," Jan replies. She walks over to him. "You see, Jesse, I am almost 100% sure that it's YOU who's been sending Afton all those weird gifts and notes. Who else would it be? Everyone around here can see that you're in love with her."
"You're crazy. I had nothing to do with what's happening to Afton. The police already questioned me."
Jan smiles. "Well, don't be surprised if they come back to ask you a few more questions. Especially now that they know about your feelings for Afton."
"You little bitch. You'd best keep your mouth shut if you know what'd good for you."
"Or what, Jesse? Exactly what are you gonna do to me?" Jan asks.
"What's going on here?" Comes Afton's voice from behind Jesse. He turns around and looks at her, surprised, then he and Jan exchange looks between them, Jesse hoping that Afton didn't hear what they were talking about.
Ewing Oil....
As Sue Ellen is finishing up some paper work in her office that evening, a knock comes at her door. "Come in," she says.
Courtney walks into the office carrying a single red rose and a card. "Mrs. Ewing, a messenger just delivered this for you," she says, handing the items to Sue Ellen.
"For me?"
"Yes."
Sue Ellen smiles. "I wonder who they're from."
"Only one way to find out." Courtney gives her a smile, then turns and walks out of the office.
Reunion Tower......later
"Good evening, Mrs. Ewing," he says.
"Good evening. Ummm, are you open tonight?"
"No. We are closed for a private dinner."
"Oh, well, I'm sorry, then. I was supposed to meet someone here at 8:30."
The waiter smiles. "Yes. This way, please." The man turns and walks away from her. Curious, Sue Ellen follows him over to a table, where a man sits, holding a menu up so that his face is obscured. "Your guest has arrived," the waiter says.
The man lowers the menu, revealing himself to be Catlin Ewing. "Thank you, Pierre. Good evening,
"Catlin? What is all this?" Sue Ellen asks.
"Well, what does it look like? A romantic dinner for two here in this most elegant restaurant with the most breathtaking view of any city I've ever seen, with the most beautiful woman I know."
Sue Ellen smiles. "You rented out the whole restaurant?"
"Yes, I did," Catlin says. "For the entire evening."
"Shall we have a seat?" Catlin asks. "Are you hungry?"
She looks at him and smiles. "Famished."
"Good. We'll make this an evening to remember."
Sue Ellen takes her seat at the table across from Catlin and looks at him, still smiling. Sue Ellen can't help but feel an immense attraction for this handsome man. But, in the back of her mind she reminds herself of who he is and what his last name is......Ewing. Should she dare allow herself to become even closer to another Ewing.....J.R.'s cousin?
Cliff's apartment....
"Hi," he says quietly.
"Why were you sitting here in the dark?"
"Just haven't felt like getting up to turn on the light," Cliff replies.
"Cliff, what's wrong?"
"Who was your visitor?" Afton asks.
"Bradley Stone."
"Bradley Stone? Am I supposed to know who that is?"
"Don't you remember? Marilee Stone's son. He attended the Oil Baron's Ball with Katherine."
"Oh, yes," says Afton. "Well, what did he want? Obviously he said something that upset you. What was it?"
Cliff hesitates a moment before answering. "He said that I'm his father."
"The kid said that I'm his father."
"Well, are you?"
Cliff looks up at her and again hesitates before answering. "To be honest, Afton.......I really don't know."
"But.....it's possible?"
"Yes, it's possible. This happened long before I ever met you. When Marilee's husband Seth Stone was still alive. Marilee and I only slept together a couple of times back then, but, it's possible."
"Cliff, you should know enough about biology to know that it only takes ONE time for a woman to become pregnant."
"Yeah.......I know," Cliff says. "I learned that with Ann Ewing. That's how Emma came to be."
"Well what are you gonna do?" Afton asks.
"Brad asked me to take a DNA. I told him I would think about it."
Afton sighs. "Cliff, why not just do it? Take the damned test, and then you'll know one way or another whether or not you have another kid."
Cliff looks at her and nods, then returns his gaze out the window at the lights of the city.
The Hyatt Regency Hotel.....the next morning
"Good morning."
Catlin walks over to her. "Has anyone ever told you that you're very beautiful when you sleep?"
"Maybe once or twice I've been told that."
Catlin takes a seat on the bed and kisses her. "Last night was amazing, Sue Ellen."
"Yes, it certainly was. And, uh........unexpected."
"I've always loved the element of surprise."
"I think that must be a trait of the Ewing men," Sue Ellen says.
"J.R. loved surprises, too, huh?"
"Oh, yes. He was a master of surprise."
"I wish I'd had the chance to get to know him. I think we might've had a few things in common."
Sue Ellen looks at him sternly. "Are you deliberately trying to mess this up?" She asks, jokingly.
Catlin laughs. "Never. Never, never," he says, then kisses her.
"You're dripping wet," Sue Ellen says, pushing him away.
"So?" Catlin asks, then begins kissing Sue Ellen again. This time, she doesn't resist, and the two begin making love again.
The home of Marian Smith, Gilmer, Texas....
"Oh, good morning, Mama," Mark says. "I didn't hear you come in. I've never known you to sleep in before."
Marian walks over to him. "I sleep in every morning these days. Why not? I'm older now, retired. I live here all alone, so there's really no reason to be up at the crack of dawn anymore."
"True."
"What are you doing?"
"I was.........I was just looking at this old photo of me," Mark replies
"He's still here. Standing right in front of me."
Mark smiles. "Yeah. With 38 years of wrinkles and a whole lotta baggage."
"I remember the day that was taken," Marian says.
"So do I. It was the summer of 1978. And I had just turned 20. I really was a good lookin' kid, wasn't I?"
A look of sadness comes over Mark's face as he places his photo back on the mantle. "Can we please not bring Daddy up? At least not this early in the morning."
"I will never understand you never wanting to talk about your father. Mark, he was a good provider for us."
"Mom, just......don't, okay? Look, I think it's time I got outta here."
"What? You're gonna leave?" Marian asks.
"I've been here a couple days now. I think it's time I went to Dallas and reunited with my wife and son. And, uh......maybe even my little sister. You said Annie was askin' about me when she was here."
"Yes, she was. But Mark, I wish you wouldn't try to see her. Your sister has caused this family enough pain. She abandoned you when you went to prison."
"Yeah, well, maybe she's ready to make up for that now," Mark says with a sly smile. "After all, that hubby of hers is worth hundreds of millions of dollars, maybe even billions."
"So?"
"So? Mama, I know money never meant anything to you. You always lived pretty comfortably, first with your own parents, and then after you married Daddy. You never had to struggle like I have, wondering how you were gonna eat the next day. And Annie......The Ewings have MORE than enough to spare."
"Mark, don't. Don't go to your sister with your hand out, begging."
"Mama, I have no intention of begging. But Annie owes me. All them years I was rotting in prison, she was marryin' these rich guys and rollin' in the dough. Now......time for little sister to share some of that wealth with her less fortunate family. And I have another reason for going to Dallas. Annie isn't the only relative who's loaded. My wife's other kid.........Tripp McKay.........his grandfather just died, and that old man had as much money as the Ewings. So, Mama, either way........I'm bound to hit the jackpot in the big D."
Marian looks at her son with worry, afraid that Mark would get himself into trouble again if he goes to Dallas.
Justin and Amanda's home....
"Sure, I'll do that," Amanda says. Sure you don't want me to drive you to work? Jimmy doesn't have class this morning?"
"Not til ten," Justin replies as a knock comes at the door. "I'll get that." Justin gets up from the table and walks over to the back door and opens it to find Amanda's brother Jeremy Shepherd. "Hey, Jeremy, come in."
"Thanks," Jeremy says, walking into the house.
"Good morning," Amanda says. "You want some breakfast?"
"No, thanks," says Jeremy. "Justin, I just brought over a copy of this month's feed bills." Jeremy hands Justin a small stack of papers.
Jeremy looks at him for a moment. "Yeah, well, no problem," he says. "Umm, listen, I couldn't help but notice the hood on your car is open."
"Yeah, I was lookin' at it," Justin says. "I heard a weird knock in the engine on my way home last night, but, unfortunately, I don't really know anything about cars."
"I'd be glad to check it out for you," Jeremy says. "I use to work at a mechanic's shop. I learned a lot about engines, and how to do basic repairs. I might at least be able to tell ya what's wrong."
"Thanks, dude, I'd really appreciate that," Justin says.
At that moment, the back door opens and Jimmy walks into the house. "Hey, morning, guys," he says cheerfully.
"Hey, Jimbo," says Justin.
"Jimmy, have some breakfast?" Amanda asks.
"Well, pull up a chair, bro," Justin says as he returns to his seat. "Jeremy, anything else ya need?"
"No," Jeremy replies. "Nothin' else." He watches Justin, Amanda, and Jimmy as the three take their seats at the breakfast table and begin laughing and chatting as they consume their meal. The envy rising up inside of him, he shakes his head in disgust, then turns and walks out of the house.
Ewing Oil....
"Not yet, John Ross," Janice replies, a tone of annoyance in her voice.
John Ross sighs. "Let me know the minute she comes in, would ya?"
"I told you the last time you asked me.......TEN MINUTES AGO......that I would let you know just as soon as Mrs. Ewing walks in."
"Good, thank ya, darlin'," John Ross says, seeming distracted. He walks back into his office and closes the door.
Bobby comes out of his office and walks over to Janice's desk, smiling at Courtney at her desk on his way. "Janice," he says, handing his secretary some papers. "Would you file these for me, please? They're just some copies of some old contracts."
"I sure will, Mr. Ewing," Janice says.
The elevator doors open and a smiling Sue Ellen gets off the elevator. She smiles and greets two women as she heads toward the secretaries' desks.
"Good morning."
"You sure seem awfully happy this mornin'."
"I AM happy," Sue Ellen says. "Happier than I've been in a long time."
"I'm sure glad to hear that, Sue Ellen. And would my cousin Catlin have anything to do with that smile on your face and the fact that you're so happy?"
"Yes. Actually, Catlin has EVERYTHING to do with my happiness right now."
"I think that's wonderful," Bobby says. "Should Annie and I start planning a wedding, or should we wait a couple weeks?"
Sue Ellen laughs. "Maybe a couple weeks, or months," she says.
"Mrs. Ewing, John Ross wanted to see you just as soon as you came in," Janice says.
"Oh? Alright, thank you, Janice. I'll go and see what he wants." Sue Ellen walks over to her son's office and knocks on the door.
"Come in," she hears him say.
"Yes, I do. Won't you have a seat?"
Sue Ellen walks over and takes a seat in the chair in front of John Ross's desk. "Now, what is it?"
Sue Ellen gives her son a stern look. "John Ross, I'm in a wonderful mood today, and I really don't need your sarcasm. Now, what is it you need my help with?"
"Convincin' Uncle Bobby that we could use Jeremy Lord's help in takin' down Katherine Wentworth and Richard Channing."
"John Ross, we've already had this discussion. And I agree with Bobby. We have no idea what kind of man Jeremy Lord is. We already have our OWN fight with Richard Channing, and the Ewings will take care of him ourselves. As I said, I agree with Bobby. I don't want this family or this company caught up in a war between Channing and Jeremy Lord."
"Jeremy Lord is very powerful and well connected man, with his own axe to grind with both Katherine and Channing. I really think it would be beneficial to us to team up with him."
"And I disagree. John Ross, just let it go. The Ewings are NOT teaming up with a man we know virtually nothing about." Sue Ellen stands from her seat and starts to leave the office.
After his mother leaves, John Ross picks up his phone and dials a number. "Well," he says quietly to himself. "If I can't count on my fam'ly, then I'll just team up with Jeremy Lord on my own. One way or another, I WILL destroy the Channings and Elena along with 'em."
Millwood Psychiatric Hospital....
"Yes?"
"I'm Dr. Heather Forbes, Dylan's primary therapist."
"I'm very happy to meet you," Donna says with a smile, shaking the woman's hand.
"So, Dylan will be staying with you and your husband after his release?"
"Yes, that's right. And I thought that I should spend a little time with Dylan. Can you tell me anything about him?"
"Well, over all, Dylan is a good kid. But, he carries with him a lot of emotional scars. The shock of learning that the man he'd always believed to be his father, was actually NOT his father, was very traumatic for him, especially combined with the murder of his biological father. I understand you knew Dylan's biological father?"
"Yes, I did, many years ago," Donna replies. "Jack Ewing and my husband, Ray, were first cousins."
"Oh, I see. Well, that's good, then. Dylan feels a very strong disassociation and a sense of estrangement with his mother and any member of her family. So, I think it will be very good for him to be with family."
"I certainly hope so. Dr. Forbes, what about Dylan's.......condition? His Bipolar disorder?"
"Dylan's bipolar condition is under control, as long as he takes his medication. Of course after he leaves here, he will have to come in twice a week for one on one sessions either with me or with Dr. Miller. In addition to the medication and ongoing individual counseling, what that young man needs most after his release from Millwood, is a lot of patience, and love."
"Well, my husband and I, and Dylan's brother Conner, we all intend to see that he gets plenty of that."
"I'm happy to hear that, Mrs. Krebbs. And this is a wonderful thing that you're doing for Dylan. Now, I just wanted to meet you. I'll send Dylan in."
"Thank you, Dr. Forbes," Donna says. The doctor smiles, then walks out. A moment later, Dylan walks into the room. He pauses in the doorway as he and Donna look at each other.
Donna smiles at the young man. "Hello, Dylan," she says. "I'm Donna Krebbs, Ray's wife. Your brother Conner has told me a lot about you, and I think we should get to know each other."
"Hello, Mrs. Krebbs," Dylan says nervously.
"Why don't you call me Donna?"
Dylan nods as he looks at this woman, this complete stranger whose home he will be moving into as soon as he is released from the hospital in just a few days.
A doctor's office in Dallas....afternoon
"So, you have the results of my tests?" Emma asks.
"Seven weeks? That far along?" Emma asks.
"Yes."
"I thought pregnancy symptoms usually showed earlier than seven weeks."
"Usually they do. But, it's not uncommon for symptoms to show in the 7th, 8th, or even 9th week of pregnancy. In fact, there really is no NORMAL time frame. Emma, I know that you told me there's a question of your child's paternity."
"Not anymore," Emma says. "My being seven weeks pregnant........that tells me exactly who the father is."
"I see. Well, good, that's one less thing we have to worry about," says Dr. Stewart.
"What do you mean? What else is there to worry about?"
"Your medical condition, Emma. You're a carrier of the genetic disease Neurofibromatosis. Which means that...."
"It's possible. I want to run some preliminary blood tests. But, unfortunately, until you're at least 15 weeks along, we won't be able to do an amniocentesis or other tests on the fetus to determine the likelihood of the child inheriting the disease."
"So.......now I have to just wait? For at least 8 more weeks?"
"I'm sorry, Emma. I know waiting can be one of the hardest things in the world to do, and if we could perform any testing sooner, I would."
"I know," Emma says, looking at the doctor.
Dr. Stewart walks over to her desk and takes a seat. "Emma, I'm going to prescribe you some prenatal vitamins. I'd also like to see you back in here in two weeks. I'll also send home some dietary recommendations, as well."
A few minutes later....
"Emma, what a surprise," Pamela says. "I never expected to see you here. I didn't even realize you were back in Dallas."
"Yeah, I came back a couple days ago. How are you, Pamela? You look as though you're ready to have that baby."
"I still have almost two weeks to go," Pamela says with a smile. "So, what are you doing here?"
"I had an appointment with Dr. Stewart."
"Oh, I see. Well, I have to go. I'll see you later."
"Yeah, you too, Pamela. It's, ummm......it's good seeing you."
Pamela looks at her and smiles. "You almost sound like you mean that. And I might actually believe it if I didn't know you as well as I do." Pamela brushes past Emma and heads down the hall, following the nurse into an examining room.
Ewing Oil....late afternoon
Jimmy walks into the office. "Hey, you wanted to see me?"
"Yeah, thanks for comin'."
"No problem, what's up?"
"It's time the J.R. Ewing Foundation did our first fund raiser. We've almost used all the money that was given to us initially a few months ago when we were askin' for donations. So, time to raise some more dough."
"Okay, what do you want me to do?" Jimmy asks.
Justin smiles. "Real glad you asked me that. Jimmy, I'm puttin' YOU in charge of organizin' the fundraiser."
"ME? You want ME to organize this thing?"
"I sure do. After all, I asked you to come into this with me, to be my right hand. Well, now's your chance to show me whatcha can do."
"Well, I'll do my best," Jimmy says.
"Good. Amanda even said she'd help you any way she could. She's pretty good at plannin' stuff."
"Great, well, I'm sure I'll be calling on her for help."
Justin stands and walks over to him. "I know you'll make the Foundation proud with this, Jimmy. And me."
"So, what kind of event were you thinking? Big, small? Casual? Black tie?"
"Oh, definitely black tie for the kinda money we're hopin' to raise. Sue Ellen told me when I first started headin' up this Foundation that people feel more generous when they're dressed up, so most of our fundraisers should be black tie."
"I'll get right on it."
Justin smiles. "Awesome. By the way, how are things goin' with you and Kaitlyn?"
Jimmy looks at him and hesitates a moment before answering. "Things are.......good. In fact, we have a date tonight."
"That is AWESOME news, bro. Hey, this weekend, why don't the four of us get together and do somethin'? Maybe another cookout at the house?"
"Yeah, sounds great," Jimmy says, his tone of voice sounding less than enthusiastic.
Southfork.....that night
While Ray and Donna chat with Lucy in one corner of the room, Ann and Krystina are sitting on the sofa talking about Krystina's trip to Denver, and Bobby and Conner are at the bar. Bobby pours Conner a drink.
"Thanks," Conner says.
"I am. can't wait for Dylan to be out of that place."
"Conner, I really wish that you didn't have to move out. That Dylan could move in here, but....."
"Well, you know you will ALWAYS have a home here at Southfork, anytime you want it. And I sure hope you won't be a stranger."
"Don't worry, I won't be. I'll only be a mile away, and I'll come by often."
"You'd better," says Bobby.
John Ross walks into the house at that point. Krystina walks over and meets him as he enters the living room. "Hey," she says. "I was starting to get worried. I tried calling."
"I'm sorry, darlin', I was on the phone with Alex on my way home. After dinner, I think I'm gonna go over and see him. He got in a fight at school today and hot suspended for three days."
"Oh, no, is he alright?"
"He's fine. Just needs a good talkin' to, is all."
"Well, John Ross," Bobby says as he walks over to the couple.
"Uncle Bobby," John Ross says, somewhat coldly.
"Listen, I hope you're not still angry about that disagreement we had over Jeremy Lord."
"John Ross, I simply don't want our family or Ewing Oil to be caught in the middle of a war between Richard Channing and Jeremy Lord. So no, I don't agree with your judgement in getting involved with a man like Jeremy Lord, who we know nothing about."
"I had the man thoroughly checked out before I ever even considered doin' any business with him, Uncle Bobby. At least give me some credit for havin' a little bit of sense."
"In the past, John Ross, your judgement hasn't exactly been the best when it comes to business or anything else. You want me to trust you? To trust your judgement? Then you're gonna have to earn it, son. And wanting to align us with a man like Jeremy Lord to go up against Richard Channing and Katherine Wentworth is sure as hell NOT the way to do it."
"Bobby, what's goin' on?" Ann asks, walking over to them as the rest of the assembled family members look on.
"Your husband is just givin' me another lecture on good sense in business, Ann," John Ross says. "Come on, Krystina. I think we should go out to dinner tonight." John Ross looks at Bobby, then turns and walks out of the living room.
"I'm sorry," Krystina says.
"Krystina, I never meant to hurt John Ross. I'm only concerned that he keeps going off half cocked, and in times past, his schemes have backfired on this family in a big way."
"I know, Bobby," Krystina says sadly, then she walks out of the room, as well, meeting Emma as she enters the living room from the foyer.
Ann walks over and meets her daughter as Emma enters the living room. "Hey," Ann says. "I'm glad you're here for dinner."
"Thanks," Emma says, her tone laced with sadness.
"Emma, what's wrong?" Ann asks.
"I'd really rather not talk about it. In fact, I'm really not that hungry. I think I'm just gonna head on over to the cottage and try and get some sleep."
"Are you sure? You look awfully pale."
"Alright. Hey, I'll bring you out somethin' to eat later, okay? Maybe a sandwich?"
"No, not tonight. I have some food at the cottage if I get hungry. But all I really want is sleep."
Ann looks at her daughter and nods. "Okay. I'll see you tomorrow, then."
"Sure. Night."
"Good night, Emma," Ann says as her daughter walks out of the room. Ann is worried. She knows something is troubling Emma very deeply.
Sue Ellen's home....later
"Thank you for inviting me to spend the night," he says.
"I'm glad you're here."
"That dinner was wonderful. Except for one thing."
"Oh? And what might that be?" Sue Ellen asks.
"You seem distracted tonight. Bothered about something. What is it?"
"Oh, it's nothing."
"Sue Ellen, if it's bothering you this much, then obviously it's not NOTHING. Now come on. I'd like to help if I can."
Sue Ellen sighs. "I'm just worried about John Ross."
"Why, what's the matter with him?"
"Me. I'm what's the matter with my son."
"Okay, now you've lost me there."
"John Ross always thinks I'm against him. Like I'm never on his side. Never there to back him up and support him."
"Come on, that's nonsense."
"No, it's actually not," Sue Ellen says. "Catlin, John Ross is so much like his father, it's frightening at times. Like J.R., John Ross tends to act before he thinks about the consequences of his actions, or his choices. The family, and the family business have gotten into quite a few problematic situations because of John Ross's impulsiveness. But John Ross doesn't understand my position. If I were to support him in his sometimes reckless decisions, then I would be just enabling him and in a way, condoning the things that he does. And yet, on the other hand, whenever I side with Bobby against him, John Ross feels hurt, like I've abandoned him. He feels that I never stand by him."
"Well, Sue Ellen, I do understand your dilemma," Catlin says. "But, if you were to stand beside your son even when he's about to do something that would get not only himself, but also your family or your company into trouble, and if you did nothing to prevent that trouble, then how would you feel?"
Sue Ellen sighs. "Just awful."
"Exactly."
"But I feel awful anyway, because my son thinks that I constantly side with his uncle against him."
"Sue Ellen, wouldn't you feel even worse if you backed John Ross, and he made a really huge mistake? You wouldn't just stand by and let your son shoot himself in the foot, now would you? Or hand him the gun to do it?"
"Of course not."
"Well that's exactly what you'd be doing if you just blindly supported any decision John Ross made, no matter how reckless or ill-advised it was."
Sue Ellen looks at him and smiles. "You're absolutely right. You know, John Ross is 37-years-old, and I'm still having to look out for him as if he were a child. I'd hoped that one day, he would grow up and stop making these reckless decisions in his private life and in business."
"John Ross will grow up eventually," Catlin says. "It just takes some of us longer than others. I know it took me well into my 30s before I was finally a responsible adult. I don't know John Ross that well yet, but, from what you've told me, he already HAS grown up a lot. I mean after two failed marriages, he's finally found happiness and a solid marriage with Krystina, right? And he's a good father to his two boys. If that isn't growing up, then I don't know what is. And eventually, he'll grow up as far as business is concerned, too."
"You really are very wise, Catlin Ewing."
"Wisdom comes from experience, and I've had a helluva lotta that."
Sue Ellen again smiles at him and the two begin to kiss.
The Omni Hotel....later that night
"Yes, sir, may I help you?"
"Yes," the man replies. "I have a reservation."
"And your name, sir?"
"Jeremy Lord."
"Yes, here we are, Mr. Lord," the clerk says. "And will you be staying with us long, Mr. Lord?"
"No." Jeremy replies. "Just long enough to take care of a little problem. And hopefully, I will never have to deal with this problem, ever again."
The clerk smiles. "Well, I hope not. I'll have a boy show you to your room, sir."
"Thank you. I'd like to get some sleep. I have a very busy, and hopefully productive day ahead tomorrow."
Southfork....the next morning
"So, what are your plans for the day?" Bobby asks his wife.
"I'm gonna go over in a little while and check on Emma. I could tell last night somethin' was really botherin' her. I'm worried about her."
"You think maybe she and Kevin Channing broke up?"
"I can only hope," Ann says as Christopher walks onto the patio.
"Mornin', son," Bobby says.
"Good morning."
"What would you like for breakfast Mr. Christopher?" Maria asks.
"Oh, just coffee for me this morning, Maria."
"No breakfast?" Ann asks.
"I'm having breakfast in town with Courtney," Christopher says as he pours himself a cup of coffee. He takes a sip.
"Things are gettin' pretty serious between you two, aren't they?" Ann asks.
"I can't tell you how happy that makes me, Christopher," says Bobby.
"And me," Ann says.
"Well, thanks guys."
"Hey, why don't you bring Courtney to dinner tonight?" Ann asks.
"Yeah, that'd be nice. Well listen, I've gotta go. Dad, I'll see you at the office later."
"Alright, see you in a bit," Bobby says.
Christopher takes another sip of his coffee, then puts the cup down on the table and walks away as John Ross and Krystina come onto the patio.
"Where's he goin' in such a hurry?" John Ross asks as he and Krystina take their seats.
"He has a breakfast date with Courtney," Bobby replies.
"Those two have really been spending a lot of time together," says Krystina. "I think it's great. It's nice to see Christopher find happiness with someone."
"I feel the same way," Ann says. "Especially someone as nice as Courtney."
"John Ross, I think we should talk some more about last night," Bobby says.
"Nothin' to talk about, Uncle Bobby. You and my Mama have both made it clear where my place is at Ewing Oil."
"John Ross, Ewing Oil is a FAMILY company, and YOU are part of this family. But like I've told you before, in order for us to trust you, you have got to earn that trust. Your track record for good judgement hasn't exactly been stellar, and wanting to get us into the middle of a war between Richard Channing and that Jeremy Lord guy is just another example of you not thinking about the consequences of your actions."
"You and Mama both think that I'm impulsive and make poor decisions? Well about Mama shackin' up with that Catlin Ewing, a guy she hardly knows."
"Catlin Ewing is a good man, John Ross."
"Oh yeah?" John Ross asks. "Well what the hell do you really know about him?"
"John Ross, your mother is happy, for the first time since Dusty walked out of her life. You should be happy for her."
"Oh, I will be," John Ross says. "Just as soon as I find out all I can about this so called cousin of ours. And if Catlin Ewing is all he says he is."
Bobby and Ann exchange looks of frustration, both worried that John Ross was going to do something to mess up Sue Ellen and Catlin's budding relationship.
Woodglen Apartments in Dallas....
"Hey, baby," he says with a smile.
"Mark. Oh my God," Sharon says happily, embracing him. "What on earth are you doing here? Come in."
Mark walks into the apartment with his suitcase and looks around. "Nice place."
"Thanks. We just moved in yesterday. I had to get out of that motel. Not only was it too crowded, but it was getting expensive."
"So where's my son?" Mark asks.
Mark puts his arms around her. "I'm glad I'm here, too. Maybe we should think about puttin' down some roots here in Dallas, since we have family here."
"Your sister?"
"And your kid."
Sharon smiles slightly. "Tripp won't even talk to me."
"Well maybe we can rectify that. But in the meantime, I haven't seen my lovely wife in a few months. So, how about the two of us get reacquainted, and then, I think I might just take a ride out to that big ol' Ewing ranch and say hello to baby sister."
Sharon's smiles grows wider, then she and Mark kiss.
Cliff and Afton's apartment.....
Stone Oil....
Brad is surprised by the news of Cliff's visit. "Thanks. Please show Mr. Barnes in."
"Yes, sir."
Brad stands to his feet. A moment later, the secretary walk's into the office, followed by Cliff.
"Can I get you anything, Mr. Barnes?" The secretary asks.
"No, thank you, I'm fine."
The secretary smiles, then walks out of the office and closes the door.
"Have a seat," Brad says, retaking his own seat at his desk.
"Thanks," Cliff says as he sits down across from Brad.
"So, what can I do for you?" Brad asks.
Brad sighs. "I see."
"And I also realize that the only way we can know for sure is to take that DNA test you wanted me to take."
"Well, good. Great," Brad says. "When can we do this?"
"As soon as possible. Today. The sooner we get this test done......the sooner we'll know."
A relieved Brad looks at Cliff and nods.
Southfork......the cottage
"Emma? Honey, are you in there? Are you alright?" Ann asks from outside.
Letting out a deep sigh, Emma gets up from her seat and walks over and opens the door. "I'm fine," she says.
Ann looks at her daughter. "No, sweety. You're NOT fine. Let me in."
Emma steps aside and Ann walks into the cottage, closing the door. Emma returns to her seat on the sofa. Ann walks over to her.
"You can't help me with this."
"Why not try me?" Ann asks, taking a seat on the sofa beside her daughter. "I notice you're awful pale, too. You haven't been sleepin' have you?"
Emma shakes her head.
"Is this about you and Kevin Channing? Did you have a fight?"
"No. Kevin and I are fine."
"Then what is it? Emma, I'm your mother, and......"
"Pregnant?" Asks a surprised Ann. "Well, Emma, I........this comes as a real shock."
"Yeah, it does for me, too."
"Does Kevin know?"
Emma shakes her head.
"Is that why you came back home?" Ann asks.
"Yes. I took a home pregnancy tests several days ago, and I wanted to make an appointment with Dr. Stewart to be sure."
"For someone who just found out she's carryin' a precious life inside of her, you sure don't seem very happy."
Emma looks at her mother. "I'm terrified."
"Sweety, it'll be alright," Ann says, reaching over and taking her daughter's hand.
"No, it won't be. Don't you understand? I'm a carrier of that disease that runs in the Barnes family, that, Neuro......whatever the hell it's called........and I could pass that on to my baby."
"Oh my God. I completely forgot about that."
"Dr. Stewart says I can have tests to determine if the baby might have it. But I have to wait until I'm at least 15 weeks pregnant. I don't know if I can stand to wait that long."
"Oh, baby," Ann says, stroking her daughter's blonde hair. "Listen, why we go out? You need to get out of this house for a while."
"I'm not in the mood."
"Then come up to the house with me. I don't want you bein' here all by yourself. Will you?"
Emma looks at her mother and nods.
Ann smiles at her. "Good. Let's go."
A few minutes later....
"Mrs. Ewing, you have a visitor," the maid replies.
"A visitor?"
"Yes ma'am. He's waiting in the living room."
"Thank you," Ann says. Curious, she and Emma make their way down the short hallway and into the living
"Hello," Ann says. "Can I help you?"
Ann is stunned speechless when the man turns around to face her and she sees it's her brother.
Mark smiles. "Well, well. Hello, Annie," Mark says. "It's been a helluva long time. And it sure looks like the years have been good to you."
"Mark?" Ann says.
"In the flesh. What's the matter? Aren't you glad to see me again after all these years?"
Ann just looks at her brother, her face retaining a look of complete shock, and unsure of what to say to the brother she had not seen in many years.
Wentworth Industries....
"Mr. Wentworth, there's a man here to see you. He says it's important."
"Well who is he?" Austin asks.
"Says his name is Jeremy Lord."
"Jeremy Lord? I don't know any Jeremy Lord."
"Mr. Wentworth, he insists on seeing you."
Austin sighs deeply. "Look, Michelle, I'm busy. Tell Mr. Lord that I can't see him, and if it's really important, to make an appointment. Now don't bother me again." As Austin returns to his work at his computer, he hears a commotion in the outer office, like an argument.
"No, you can't go in there, I already told you Mr. Wentworth is busy," he hears Michelle says. Then his door bursts open and Jeremy Lord walks in, Michelle right behind him. "Mr. Wentworth, I'm sorry," Michelle says. "I tried to stop him."
"It's fine, Michelle," Austin says, standing to his feet.
"I'm very sorry for this intrusion, but as I told you secretary, it is most urgent that I speak with you," Jeremy says.
"Just a moment of your time," says Jeremy.
"Should I call security, Mr. Wentworth?" Michelle asks.
"Yes, please, Michelle."
"I wouldn't do that if I were you," Jeremy says.
"And just why not?" Austin asks.
Meanwhile, Katherine walks into the Wentworth offices and enters the secretary's office. Seeing that Michelle is not at her desk, Katherine heads for her son's office. When she walks in, she is stunned to see Jeremy standing there.
Jeremy turns and sees her as she walks in. He smiles. "Well, hello, Katherine," he says. "Looks as though we're all here now."
"Jeremy.......what in the HELL are you doing here?" Katherine asks.
"Mom, you know this guy?" Austin asks.
"Oh, yes, your mother and I know each other very well, don't we, Katherine?" Jeremy asks. "Well, my dear. Are you going to tell the boy......or should I?"
"Tell me what?" Austin asks, confused.
Austin's mouth drops open in shock.