Previously On DALLAS:
----------------Steven Jones vowed that he would keep working on the stalker case, despite the department's plans to close the case now that Austin is in custody.
----------------Emma told Ann of her plans to marry Kevin.
----------------Lucas seemed bothered by Emma's plans to marry.
----------------Bum found his son Steven after he was shot in his apartment.
----------------An angry Krystina walked out on John Ross.
Texas Health Presbyterian Hospital......evening
"Pamela," Afton says, rushing to her daughter.
"Mom," Pamela cries as she embraces her mother.
"What the hell is going on here?" Cliff asks. "And what happened to my grandson?"
"When Pamela and I got here," says Tripp. "They told us that the baby had been taken."
"Do they have any idea who did this?" Afton asks.
"No," cries Pamela.
"Someone had to have seen something," says Mitch.
"Mitch is right," Cliff says. "How the hell could someone just walk into a hospital and walk out with a baby?"
"I assure you, that we're doing everything in our power to find out who took the McKay baby," says the police detective who had been talking to Tripp and Pamela.
Meanwhile......the hospital's emergency department
"I'm sorry, sir, you're gonna have to wait out here," a nurse tells Bum as Steven is wheeled into an examining room and she closes the curtains.
A worried and frightened Bum stands back as the doctors and nurses begin working to save Steven's life. A look of fear comes over Bum's face as the prospect of losing his son becomes a reality to him. Bum couldn't bear to lose his son now after having just found him again.
Texas Health Presbyterian Hospital....
"No, I didn't see anyone unusual," she replies. "Just doctors, nurses. Of course this is the maternity ward, and there are visitors in and out of here all the time."
Meanwhile, Tripp, Pamela, Cliff, Afton, and Mitch continue to wait in another waiting room with three other police officers.
"Pamela, can I get you anything?" Mitch asks his niece. "Some coffee?"
"No, thank you, Uncle Mitch."
"Afton? Anybody else?"
Afton shakes her head 'no' and remains silent, the only thing on her mind being the safety of her grandson.
"All these cops around here questioning people, you'd think SOMEONE would know something," says
"Mr. McKay, we're doing everything we can to find your baby boy," the detective says.
"Well it's not enough!" Says an angry Tripp. "God only know what this kidnapper is doing to my son!"
"Tripp is right, what the hell kind of a police department are you people running?" Cliff asks. "You can't even find the creep who's been stalking Afton for months, and now my grandson is kidnapped right out of this hospital, and you can't find anyone in this whole place who saw anyone suspicious lurking around?"
"Cliff, please, just calm down," Afton says. "You're not helping anything."
Tripp looks at his wife, then walks over to her. "Pamela, we're gonna find our son. We're gonna get him back. I promise."
"You won't, sweetheart," Tripp says, embracing his wife. "You won't. I promise."
As Tripp and Pamela embrace, Cliff and Afton exchange worried looks, both of them terrified for the safety of their infant grandson, and each praying that God would not put their daughter through the loss of another child.
Meanwhile...
"Mr. Jones?" The doctor says.
"Yes, how's my son?" Bum asks.
"His condition is still critical, but we managed to remove the bullet and stop the bleeding. The bullet Narrowly missed Steven's heart. Your son is lucky to be alive."
"Is he gonna be alright?"
"I can't say at this point. Steven has a long way to go. He's lost a lot of blood, and he suffered a blow to the back of his head, probably sustained when he fell."
"Can I see him?"
"He's still in recovery now. Soon, we're moving him into ICU. Once we do, you can see him, but only for a moment. Now, if you'll excuse me, I have to check on your son. I'll let you know when Steven has been moved to ICU."
"Thank you," Bum says as the doctor walks away. After the doctor leaves him, Bum walks over to the window and looks out into the night as a heavy downpour of rain begins to fall over the city of Dallas.
Southfork....
As Bobby is headed into his and Ann's bedroom next door, he happens to glance into John Ross's room and sees his nephew standing alone by the window. Bobby knocks on the door and walks in. "John Ross? Is everything alright?"
"No, Uncle Bobby. Everything's about as far from alright as it can get," John Ross replies.
Bobby walks over to him. "Why? John Ross, what's wrong? And where's Krystina?"
John Ross looks at him. "She's gone, Uncle Bobby. My wife packed up and walked out on me."
A stunned look comes over Bobby's face. "Why?"
Bobby hesitates a moment. "Did you?"
John Ross turns to his uncle. "No, Uncle, Bobby, I did NOT. Look, I know that I have a history of cheatin' in the past. But contrary to what you and everybody else in this fam'ly thinks of me, I love my wife, and I did not cheat on her. This whole thing was a terrible misunderstandin'. I swear to you on everything I hold dear, that I didn't cheat on her."
"Thank you."
"I've seen you with Krystina these last several months, and it's a different kind of relationship than you had with Pamela, or Amanda. John Ross, you have to go after her. Explain to her whatever it is that happened."
"I tried, Uncle Bobby," John Ross says. "She wouldn't even listen to me. I been callin' her phone ever since she left, and she won't answer. I don't even know where she is."
"Well she's gotta be at one of the hotels in Dallas or Braddock. Just let her cool down tonight, and then, tomorrow, go and find her."
John Ross looks at him. "I'm sure as hell gonna try. Thanks, Uncle Bobby. Thank ya for believin' in me for the first time in a long time."
Bobby puts a reassuring hand on his nephew's shoulder and smiles. "You don't always make it easy, John Ross, but........this time, I just have a feelin' you're tellin' me the truth. Find your wife, son, and make HER believe in you again." Bobby turns and walks out of the room.
Brad Stone's apartment....the next morning
"Hmm?" He says, beginning to wake up. He opens his eyes and looks at her. "Oh, Krystina. What time is it?"
"Almost 8 o'clock."
"8 o'clock? Oh, I have to get a shower and get ready to go to the office," Brad says, sitting up.
"Hey, I really wanna thank you for letting me sleep here last night. I would've slept on the sofa, I told you. I hated displacing you from your own bed."
"No, no, no, it's fine," Brad says as he stands. "I have the spare bedroom but, there's no bed in there. I've been using it as my office here at home."
"I'm glad you did," Brad says. "I'd better get in the shower."
"Okay," Krystina says. "While you shower, I'll make some breakfast."
"Krystina, you don't have to do that."
"It's the least I can after you took me in last night, all upset, and then let me have your bed."
"Well, I'm not sure what's in my kitchen, food wise. I normally eat out."
"I'm sure I can find something," Krystina says.
Brad smiles at her, then Krystina walks into the kitchen. After she's gone, Brad's smile grows larger, as his plan to have John Ross's wife for himself is falling into place even better than he'd hoped.
Southfork....
"Mornin'," Bobby says to his wife as she walks up to him.
"Mornin'," says Ann.
"I woke up and you were gone. Maria said you took a walk."
"I did," Ann says, taking a seat at the table. She pours herself a cup of coffee. "I got up real early. I couldn't sleep and I didn't wanna wake you up, so, first I came downstairs and watched a little television, and then, I went for a walk on the ranch. I love the way the ranch smells the mornin' after a rain."
Bobby smiles. "So do I. I would love to have gone with ya."
"I just needed some time to think."
"You still worried about Emma?" Bobby asks.
"Yeah, I am. Bobby, I think she's makin' a big mistake marryin' Kevin Channing."
"You think she really loves him?"
"I really don't know," Ann says. "She says they love each other. And, who knows, maybe they do. After all, Emma and Kevin have known each other for a few years now, and they dated when she lived in London. I just can't help but feel that she's rushin' into this. I wanna be there to support my daughter, Bobby."
He reaches over and takes his wife by the hand. "And we will."
"We?" Ann asks.
"Yes, WE," says Bobby. "I've done some thinkin', too. Emma has made a lot of mistakes, and a lot of messes. But she is your daughter. I may hate the fact of goin' to California for Emma's wedding to Richard Channing's son, but........I'm not gonna let you go there alone, for two reasons......I love you and my place is with you, AND, I'm not gonna give Richard Channing the satisfaction."
Ann smiles, then kisses her husband as Christopher comes out of the house. "Did I hear you mention Richard Channing?" He asks.
"Yes, you did," Bobby replies. "Why?"
"Take a look at the morning paper," Christopher says, laying the paper down on the table.
Bobby picks the paper up and looks at the headline.
"What is it, Bobby?" Ann asks.
"Well, this is just great," he replies in a disgusted tone. "Katherine Wentworth and Richard Channing are married."
"They're WHAT?"
"Married. That's all we needed, Richard Channing becoming a member of the Wentworth-Barnes clan."
At that moment, John Ross comes out of the house. He says nothing to his assembled family members as he heads straight for his car.
"John Ross, aren't you gonna have breakfast?" Ann calls to him.
"Not hungry. But thanks," he replies as he keeps going. Bobby, Ann, and Christopher watch as he gets into
"What's the matter with him?" Christopher wonders.
"John Ross and Krystina had a fight yesterday, and she left."
"She left?" Ann asks.
"Yeah."
"Well, I wondered where she and John Ross were last night at dinner."
"Lucy didn't come down to dinner last night, either," says Christopher.
"I dunno what's goin' on with her," says Ann. "But Lucy's been real upset and depressed ever since Afton came by to see her the other mornin'."
"Afton?" Bobby asks.
"Yeah. She came by and DEMANDED to see Lucy. So, Maria went and got Lucy, the two of them talked for a few minutes, and since then, Lucy's been real upset."
Meanwhile....Lucy's bedroom
Brad's apartment....
"Yeah, well, why don't I just step back into the kitchen while you go grab some clothes," says a very embarrassed and flustered Krystina."
"No, you don't have to," Brad says. "I'll just run grab some clothes, and umm, slip 'em on."
"Umm, maybe I should just leave," Krystina says.
"Why, Krystina?"
"Isn't it obvious how totally inappropriate this is?"
"Brad, you know I'm married."
"Yeah, to a guy who cheated on you with a waitress," Brad says, moving closer to her. "Krystina, you are such a beautiful woman. You deserve so much better than John Ross."
"Brad, don't....."
"Krystina, you could've gone anywhere last night. You could've gone to any hotel in Dallas, but yet, you came HERE, to MY apartment. Why?"
"I don't know."
"I do know," Brad says. "You were angry with John Ross. You were deeply hurt, so you came here to another man. A man you're attracted to. Can you really deny that?"
"Brad......I can't," Krystina says. "I can't deny that I find you incredibly attractive. Any woman would. But, I can't do this."
"So it's perfectly fine for John Ross to cheat?"
"No. That's not what I said. Brad, my marriage vows me everything to me. Yes, John Ross hurt me SO much. But sleeping with you to get back at him........I can't."
"Is that really what you'd be doing?" Brad asks, moving closer to her and gently touching her face. "Or would you be doing it because you're really attracted to, and because you know your marriage is probably over now? Krystina, can you really go back to a man and live with a man who you know just cheated on you? A man who slept with another? Who knows how many times he's cheated on you that you didn't know about."
Krystina begins to cry.
"Brad, no," she says, putting her hand on his bare chest to push him away. "I can't....."
"Krystina, think you want me just as much as I want you right now. John Ross is a jerk. He doesn't deserve a woman like you, Krystina, and you sure as hell don't deserve a guy like that who cheats on you the first chance he gets."
After hearing Brad's words, Krystina allows herself too give in as Brad begins kissing her again.
Texas Health Presbyterian Hospital....
"I'm sorry, I didn't mean to startle you," Scott says. "You must be Steve's father."
"That's right, I am," Bum says, standing to face the younger man.
"I'm your son's partner, Detective Scott Miller with the Dallas PD."
"Nice to meet you, Detective."
"Yeah, you too, I just wish it was under different circumstances. I just heard this morning. How is he?"
Bum sighs. "Not so good. He made it through surgery last night, and he's stable. But he's lost a lot of blood, and he has a severe concussion."
"Has he woken up yet?" Scott asks. "Has he been able to shed some light on who did this?"
"No. He's been out cold ever since he was shot. The doctor thinks he hit his head when he fell."
"Thank you."
"Your son is a valuable member of the Dallas PD, and I couldn't ask for a better partner."
"I really appreciate that," Bum says. "I suppose Steven has told you a little bit about me. About our relationship?"
"Not much. He never liked to talk much about his family, or his childhood. All I know is that the two of you have been estranged for a number of years."
"Yeah. Until the day I saw my son in that bar a couple months ago, I hadn't seen or spoken to him in seven years. Last time we saw one another, back in 2009, Steven told me he hated me, and never wanted to see me again. That's when he left Dallas with his mother. Until I saw him in that bar, I didn't even know he'd returned to Dallas and was working on the police force. What the hell kind of a father is that?"
"Don't beat yourself up too much, sir," Scott says. "Everyone makes mistakes."
"Do you have kids, Detective?" Bum asks.
"No, sir. I haven't been that lucky yet."
"Well, you're young. When you do have kids, cherish every moment with 'em. And don't ever part company with them while there's a rift between you."
"If you'd like, why don't you go get some rest?" Scott asks. "You look pretty beat. I'd be glad to sit with Steve for a while. I don't go on duty until this afternoon."
"No, thank you. The doctor says it might be a while before Steven wakes up. I'm gonna stay right here, at least for a while."
"Okay. Well, here's my card with my cell number," Scott says, handing Bum the card. "If you change your mind and you'd like to leave for a while, I'll be more than happy to come by and sit with him. Your son is like family to me. He's like my brother."
"I really appreciate that, Detective."
Scott nods, then turns and walks out of the room. In the hallway outside, a look of worry crosses his face.
Tripp and Pamela's apartment....
"How's Pamela, Aunt Tracey?" Tripp asks.
"My sister is gonna drive herself to a breakdown at this rate," says Mitch.
"Afton's not the one driving herself to a breakdown," Cliff says. "It's this son of a bitch who's stalking her. The same bastard who kidnapped my grandson."
"Cliff, you're really convinced the kidnapper and Afton's stalker are one and the same?" Mitch asks.
"Who else? It'd be too wild a coincidence that the baby gets kidnapped at the same time this stalker keeps striking."
"This whole thing is just too crazy to comprehend," Tracey says. "I mean, who would have this kind of a grudge against Afton?"
"No one I can think of," says Mitch.
"Yeah, me neither," agrees Cliff. "The only people I know who dislike Afton so much would be the Ewings, and as much as I hate those people, I seriously can't see one of them murdering Jan and Jesse, and kidnapping Pamela and Tripp's baby."
"No, you're right," Tripp says. "The Ewings are a lot of things, but they're not cold blooded murderers."
Afton comes out of the bedroom at that moment. Tripp walks over to her.
"Is she okay?"
"Yeah, she's sleeping soundly."
"Afton, sweetheart, you need to get some rest," Mitch says.
"I can't, Mitch. I can't possibly rest knowing that my grandson is in the hands of some maniac," Afton says as the doorbell rings.
Tripp walks over to the door and opens it. Detective Scott Miller is standing there. "Detective Miller, come in," Tripp says.
Scott walks into the apartment. "Mr. McKay, I'm very sorry to hear of the abduction of your child."
"Has there been any break at all in the case?" Tripp asks.
"I'm afraid not."
"What the hell are you people doing, anyway?" Asks an angry Cliff. "This creep has been stalking Afton all these months and you're no closer to catching him now then you were when this whole thing started. And not to mention that two people are now dead, and my grandson has been kidnapped."
"I'm very sorry, Mr. Barnes," Scott says. "We're doing all we can. But we now have a new problem."
"What's that, Detective Miller?" Afton asks.
"Last night, my partner, Detective Jones, was shot."
"Oh my God."
"Is he okay?" Tripp asks.
"He's in ICU."
"Does his shooting have anything to do with the stalker case and the kidnapping?" Tripp asks.
"We don't know yet. I just wanted to assure you all that everything possible is being done to find your baby, Mr. McKay."
"Thank you for coming by," Tripp says.
"I'll keep you updated," Scott says. He quickly leaves the apartment.
"So," Afton says, choking back tears. "This stalker claims another victim, this time a policeman."
"Afton, we don't know that the two were connected," says Cliff.
"Of course they were connected. How could they NOT be? My God, when is this nightmare ever going to end?"
As Afton begins to cry, Mitch embraces his sister.
Lauren's house....
"I need to speak to Lauren. Is she here?" John Ross asks.
"No, Lauren aint here."
"Well where the hell is she?"
"Your guess is as good as mine, pal. Late yesterday, Lauren packed up all her stuff and moved outta here. I'm her landlord. She called me and told me she was leavin' and she left a check for this month's and next month's rent in the house and told me where to find them."
"On a waitress's salary she was able to afford TWO months' rent?" Asks a suspicious John Ross. "Itn't that a little strange?"
"Yeah it is, but then again, Lauren was a strange girl. Now, if that's all, you'll have to excuse me. I have some cleaning up to do in here, and then I gotta try and rent this place again."
"Didn't she leave a forwardin' address, or somethin'?"
"Nope, she didn't."
"Damn. Well, listen, man, if Lauren does happen to get in touch with you, give me a call," John Ross says, handing the man one of his business cards.
"John Ross......Ewing? As in Ewing Oil?" The landlord asks.
"That's right. I'll make it worth your while to let me know when you hear from her." John Ross opens his wallet, takes out a one hundred dollar bill, and hands it to the man.
"I sure will, Mr. Ewing. I sure will."
"Thanks," John Ross says, then turns and walks away. The landlord watches as John Ross gets into his corvette and drives away.
Ewing Oil....
"Well, Amanda, hello," she says.
"Hi, Sue Ellen. How are you?"
"I'm just fine. And you?"
"I'm good."
"Justin has told me all about you helping Jimmy plan the fundraiser for the J.R. Ewing Foundation. I can imagine you're looking forward to Friday night."
"Yes, I am," Amanda says. "It's been a lot of work, but, I think it'll pay off in the end."
"I'm sure that it will," Sue Ellen says as Jimmy walks over to them.
"Hello, Amanda," Jimmy says.
Amanda looks at him awkwardly for a moment. "Umm, hi, Jimmy."
"I guess you're here to see Justin?"
"Yes, I was hoping he was free for lunch."
"Actually, he already left for lunch. He had a business lunch with a couple of the Foundation's investors."
"Oh, well, I'm sorry I missed him then," Amanda says with disappointment.
"Excuse me, Sue Ellen?" Courtney says.
"Yes?"
"Catlin Ewing is on line one for you."
Sue Ellen smiles. "Alright, thank you, Courtney. Well, if you two will excuse me. Amanda, nice to see you."
"You too, Sue Ellen," Amanda says as Sue Ellen walks away.
Amanda and Jimmy exchange awkward looks. "Well, I guess I should go."
"Amanda, wait," Jimmy says. "Why don't I join you for lunch?"
"Jimmy, I don't think so."
"Come on. Please. I really think we should talk about the other day."
"I don't think we have anything to talk about."
"I think we do," Jimmy says. "Amanda, I'd like to explain. Please. Have lunch with me."
She looks at him for a moment, then sighs. "Alright. Maybe we do need to talk, and clear things up."
"Good. Come on," Jimmy says. He and Amanda leave together as Christopher comes out of his office and approaches Courtney's desk.
"Hey, beautiful," Christopher says, kissing her.
"Hello yourself."
"You ready to go to lunch?"
"I sure am, and I have some good news. I talked to my Mom a little while ago, and she's going to be at the fundraiser tomorrow night."
"Yeah," Courtney says, a hint of sadness in her voice as her smile fades.
"Courtney, anything wrong?" Christopher asks, noticing the change in her demeanor.
"No, everything's fine," Courtney says, quickly covering. "Everything except the fact that I am STARVING. So come on, Mr. Ewing. Take me to lunch."
"I'm all set."
"Great," Courtney says, taking her purse from her desk drawer. "Janice, see you in a while," she says to the other secretary as she and Christopher leave.
The Krebbs Ranch....
"Lucy," Donna says with a smile. "Come in."
"Thanks, Donna," Lucy says, walking into the house.
"I am so glad you came over. Ya caught me at a very opportune time."
"I did?" Lucy asks.
"Uh-huh. I was just about to sit down to a glass of tea. Won't you join me?"
"Sure."
"This way," Donna says.
"As I said, I'm really glad you came over," Donna says. That storm we had last night knocked a tree down on a fence over in the south pasture. Ray and the boys are out there fixing the fence. So how are you, Lucy?"
"To be perfectly honest, Donna, I'm not so great."
"Why, honey, what's wrong?"
"I just need someone to talk to," Lucy replies, near tears. "Ann is always real easy to talk to, but, not about this. And I've known you longer."
Donna reaches over and takes her hand. "Lucy, what is it?"
Lucy looks at her and begins to cry. "Donna, I've done something terrible. I mean REALLY terrible. And it's too late to fix it."
"What'd you do, Lucy?" Donna asks.
"Donna, if I tell you this, you might hate me. But I have to tell someone."
"Sweety, I could never hate you. No matter what you tell me. Whatever this is, it's obviously eating away at you."
"Then tell me. I might be able to help."
"This is something that happened a long time ago. Right after Mitch and I remarried and moved to Atlanta. Let me back up. When I went to visit Mitch in Atlanta, before we remarried, he was dating this nurse named Joanna Pearce. After Mitch realized he was still in love with me and asked me to marry him again, he broke things off with Joanna. Then later, after we were married, Joanna discovered that she was pregnant. She called the apartment and left a message on our answering machine. I erased the message before Mitch ever heard it, and then......" Lucy pauses as she begins to cry. "Then, Donna, I went to Joanna and I paid her to leave town and never tell Mitch that she was carrying his child."
"Oh, Lucy," Donna says.
"Donna, at the time, Mitch and I had just found our way back to each other. I couldn't risk losing him again. I was desperate. But what I did, it was no better than something J.R. would've done."
"Lucy, you are NOTHING like J.R. I can see how this is eating away at you. J.R. Ewing never felt a moment's guilt for anything he ever did. And you can fix this. I know this happened more than thirty years ago, but, Lucy, you can go to Mitch and tell him."
"I'm sure he knows by now, Donna. Mitch's son was here, in Dallas. He worked for Afton at her nightclub. She had no clue who he was, but, a few days ago, Mitch's son died. Donna, he was murdered."
"Oh my God," Donna says.
"Mitch's firstborn son is dead, and Mitch never even knew he existed," says Lucy. "Now, he'll never know his son, and it's all my fault, Donna. Because of choices and mistakes I made in my life, I wasn't able to give Mitch a child of our own, and I denied him the chance to get to know his firstborn son. Donna, how am I gonna live with that?"
"Oh, sweety," Donna says as she stands and embraces Lucy.
A bar in Dallas....
"What can I get for ya, Miss?" The bartender asks.
"I'll have a double martini." Katelyn replies.
"You got it."
Sitting three stools away, Jeremy looks at Katelyn for a moment, then gets up and walks over to her. "Hey, don't I know you?" He asks.
"I wasn't usin' it as a pickup line. I do know you from somewhere."
"Come to think of it, you do look familiar."
"Yes, I am."
"Amanda's my sister."
"Oh, yes. Jeremy," Katelyn says.
"Yep. And you're also Jimmy Beaumont's girlfriend."
"Ha! I USED to be, anyway," Katelyn says bitterly.
"Well, sounds like you and young Mr. Beaumont have had a partin' of the ways. That have anything to do with him and my sister?"
Katelyn looks at him. "So, you know that Jimmy has a thing for Amanda, too, huh?"
Jeremy laughs slightly. "Oh, hell yeah. I think the only person who hadn't figured it out yet is poor Justin. The guy must be either blindly in love with my sister, or he's just plain stupid. But I do feel sorry for him. His wife and his best friend, fallin' for one another right under his nose and he duttin' have a clue."
"I feel sorry for him, too," Katelyn says. "Justin's a great guy. I just hope Amanda doesn't end up hurting him. If she does, she's a fool."
"I think Jimmy's the real fool here," says Jeremy. "Sure, my sister's a real pretty girl, but, she's got nothin' on you."
Katelyn smiles at Jeremy as the bartender sits her martini down on the bar in front of her. "Well, thank you, Jeremy. Maybe you'd like to hang out? I mean, if you're free this afternoon, that is."
"Oh, I can arrange to be free to hang out with a beautiful lady. So, what'd you have in mind?"
Katelyn smiles at him again and says nothing.
Avanti Restaurant, Fountain Place, Dallas....
"Amanda, I'm really sorry about the other day," Jimmy says.
"You mean saying you're in love with me?"
"Yes. That just came out of my mouth before I knew it."
"Jimmy, I don't even know what to say to that. My husband's best friend tells me he's in love with me. I was blown away."
"No, Jimmy, you can't do that," Amanda says quickly.
"Why not?"
"I know," Jimmy says. "I know." He reaches across the room and takes Amanda by the hand.
Meanwhile, as Jimmy and Amanda talk, they are unaware that Justin is having lunch nearby with four investors. He happens to see Jimmy take Amanda by the hand, and he watches them intently for several seconds, completely oblivious to what the person talking to him is saying.
"Mr. Ewing?" The woman says. "Mr. Ewing?"
"What? I'm sorry, Mrs. Daly, what were you sayin'?"
"I was saying that I'm very impressed with the job you've done in establishing this Foundation in your father's memory. Your brother made the right decision in putting this job in your very capable hands."
"Well, thank you," Justin says, uninterested.
"Are you alright, Mr. Ewing?" One of the men at the table asks.
"I'm fine. Just fine," Justin replies, again looking over at Jimmy and Amanda, his curiosity aroused even further when he sees the two get up from their table and leave together. Could it be? He wondered to himself. Could something be going on between his wife and his best friend?
The Omni Hotel....
"John Ross," she says. "What the hell are you doing here, and how did you find me?"
John Ross walks into the suite. "You know me well enough to know that when I wanna find somethin' out, I find it out."
"Get out."
"Not until we talk, Krystina."
"We have NOTHING to talk about," Krystina says.
"I can't explain why that little bitch said what she did, Krystina. Why she lied to you and said we were havin' an affair, but I swear to you on EVERYTHING I hold dear, that I did NOT sleep with that woman. I had lunch, that girl was my waitress. She put her phone down on the table next to mine. She grabbed MY phone by mistake and I got hers. Later, when I realized I had her phone, I called my phone. She answered and I wanted to know when and where I could pick my phone up. She told me to come to her house after she got off work and I could pick the damned thing up. I went there, and THAT was it, Krystina."
"That story is so ridiculous, John Ross. You honestly expect me to believe that all that stuff just happened?"
"Maybe it didn't JUST happen, darlin'," John Ross says. "Exactly how the hell did you know where I would be yesterday afternoon at exactly the right time? Did you go to Lauren's house by yourself?"
"No, I didn't. Brad drove me."
"Brad? As in Brad Stone?"
"Yes."
"Krystina, don't you realize what's happenin' here?" John Ross asks. "Brad Stone set me up. Set us BOTH up."
"John Ross, what are you talking about?" Krystina asks.
"Just think about it. Brad Stone hates me. I had lunch with him yesterday, Krystina, at that restaurant where that girl worked. Stone was the one who suggested we meet there for a business lunch! It was NO damned coincidence that little waitress picked up my phone. And then Stone takes you over to her house? You think all that's just a coincidence?"
"I.......John Ross, I don't know."
He moves closer to her and takes her face in his hands. "Krystina, I love you. And I swear to you on the lives of my children, that I did NOT cheat on you. Everything happened exactly like I said it did. We were both set up by that bastard son of Cliff Barnes, and I swear to you, if it's the last thing I do, Brad Stone is gonna regret the day he EVER crossed paths with me!"
"John Ross, I want to believe you, but....."
"Then BELIEVE me, darlin'," John Ross says. "Stone set us up, and I'm gonna prove that to you, Krystina. Look, just do me a favor. Pack your stuff up and go back to Southfork. I'll take care of Brad Stone myself."
"John Ross, what are you going to do?" Krystina asks in tears.
"I'm goin' to see Stone. And I'm gonna make him sorry for what he did."
"John Ross, no. Please, you can't. Not until I tell you something."
"What?" John Ross asks. "What is it, darlin'?"
"John Ross, I'm so sorry," Krystina says in tears.
"Sorry for what?" John Ross asks, gently touching her face.
"John Ross, I.......I was so upset and hurt. And I was so angry with you......."
"So? What are you sorry for?" John Ross asks, dreading his wife's answer.
"I...........I spent the night at Brad's apartment last night."
"No. Not last night. But this morning, I........Oh God, John Ross, I'm so sorry."
John Ross begins breathing heavily as he fights back tears looking at his wife. He can barely contain his rage. "You had SEX WITH THAT SON OF A BITCH!!??" He shouts.
"I'm sorry, John Ross," Krystina cries. "I was so hurt, I wanted to pay you back."
Without saying a word, John Ross turns and starts to leave.
Krystina grabs him by the arm. "John Ross, what are you going to do?"
He turns back to her. "I'm gonna find your lover Brad Stone, and I'm gonna kill him!" John Ross replies. Without another word, he turns and storms out of the suite, leaving Krystina in tears and afraid that she had started an all out war between John Ross and Brad that would lead to tragedy.
"Oh my God," Krystina says. She rushes over to the table and picks up her cell phone. Her hands are shaking so badly that she can barely find the number of the person she needs to call. She finds Christopher's name in her contacts and speed dials his number, then waits impatiently for an answer. "Come on, Christopher, pick up. PLEASE!"
Ewing Oil....
The Omni Hotel....
Ewing Oil....
The Omni Hotel....
Ewing Oil....
The Omni Hotel....
Ewing Oil....
"Okay, just calm down," Christopher says. "Don't worry, I'll find John Ross and take care of it. Bye." Christopher ends the call.
"Christopher, what's wrong?" Courtney asks.
"I'm not sure. Honey, I don't have time to explain. I just have to find John Ross and stop him from doing something crazy."
"But, Christopher....."
"Tell my Dad I'll be back later," Christopher says as he gets back onto the elevator. She watches as the doors close.
Stone Oil....
"You just watch me!" Says an angry John Ross as he bursts into Brad's office, the secretary following behind.
"Mr. Stone, I'm sorry. I tried to stop him."
"It's fine, Brenda. You can leave us alone now, but, call security and have them stand by."
"Yes, sir," Brenda says as she walks out of the office.
"John Ross, what can I do for you on this lovely day?" Brad asks.
"You son of a bitch," John Ross says. "You'd best start sayin' your prayers, Stone, because I'm about to tear you apart."
"Quit with the games, Stone. You know DAMNED WELL what I'm talkin' about. You set me up with that little whore at that restaurant, then arranged for my wife to see me comin' outta Lauren's house."
"John Ross, you really MUST be delusional," Brad says. "It's true, I did give Krystina a ride over to that girl's house yesterday, after Krystina said she called your phone and another woman answered."
"And you just HAPPENED to know where Lauren lived?" John Ross asks.
"I called the restaurant. A friend of mine is the manager there."
"You set me up, Stone, and then you used my wife's pain.......pain that YOU caused.......to seduce her into bed!"
"Ahhh, so you know that Krystina spent the night with me, huh?" Brad asks, barely able to contain his pleasure over John Ross's suffering.
"Stone, you made one HELL of a big mistake crossin' me," John Ross says with gritted teeth. "I'm not only gonna leave your life in ruins, but I'm gonna take you apart with my bare hands."
Without warning, John Ross, unable to control his rage any longer, quickly punches Brad as hard as he can across the face, sending him crashing into his desk, then onto the floor. As John Ross grabs Brad and is about to hit him again, Christopher burts into the office, followed by Brenda.
"John Ross, stop! STOP IT!" Christopher says, grabbing his cousin and pulling off of Brad.
Wiping blood from his mouth, Brad stands to his feet. "You're gonna be sorry for that, Ewing."
"You're the one who's gonna be sorry when I kill you with my bare hands!!" John Ross says, lunging at Brad again before Christopher can stop him. John Ross gets in another punch, knocking Brad to the floor a second time.
Christopher again grabs his cousin and holds him back. "JOHN ROSS, STOP IT!!"
"Christopher, get your hands off me! I'M GONNA KILL THAT SON OF A BITCH!!"
Brenda runs back into her office, picks up her phone, and calls building security.
Again, a stunned and disoriented Brad gets to his feet. "Christopher, get this piece of trash cousin of yours OUT of my office. John Ross, I'm gonna see you in jail for this. And you can kiss custody of your little boy goodbye."
"What? WHAT THE HELL DID YOU JUST SAY TO ME?" John Ross asks.
"You think any judge is gonna let a father who just tried to kill a man keep custody of a baby? You just walked right into Michael Channing's trap."
"Michael Channing?" Christopher. "What does he have to do with any of this?"
"Channing," John Ross says, looking at Brad. "So you and Channing were in on this whole thing together. To make Krystina think I was cheatin' on her so you could seduce my wife and take her to bed."
"And now Elena has ammunition to take John Ross's son away from him," says Christopher.
"John Ross, I told you I'd pay you back for blackmailing me," Brad says.
"YOU SON OF A......." John Ross says as he tries to lunge for Brad again, but Christopher holds him back as three security guards rush into the office.
"What's goin' on, Mr. Stone?" One of the guards asks.
"Please show these.......gentlemen.......OUT of the building, boys," Brad says, wiping blood from his mouth with a handkerchief.
"Let's go, fellas," the guard says to the Ewings.
John Ross looks at Brad, rage in his eyes. "This aint over, Stone. I swear on my father's grave, I'll destroy you just like J.R. did to that sorry no account father of yours so many times. Only you won't be able to pick yourself up again."
"Get him out of here!" Brad orders.
"Let's go," another guard says as he forces John Ross out.
After they leave, Brad takes a seat at his desk. "Yeah, COUSIN," Brad says to himself. "I look forward to that."
Brenda knocks on Brad's door, then walks in. "Mr. Stone, are you alright?" She asks.
"Fine, Brenda. Get the Dallas PD on the phone, Brenda, and report an assault."
"Yes, sir," Brenda says. She quickly hurries out of Brad's office.
Dallas Police Department....
Austin stands to his feet with great effort, a blank look on his face. "Who is it?"
"Your mother and her husband."
"I don't wanna see them."
"Come on, kid......"
"Please......just tell them to go away," Austin says, retaking his seat on his bunk. The guard looks at him for a moment, then leaves.
Meanwhile, Katherine and Richard are in the visitor's room, Katherine anxiously pacing around, waiting for her son to come into the room on the other side of the glass. The guard walks into the room where Katherine and Richard are waiting.
"My son...." Katherine says.
"What?" Katherine asks. "Doesn't wanna see me? But he has to. Tyler, tell my son that I really need to speak with him."
"I'm sorry, Miss Wentworth.... I'm sorry, Mrs. Channing....... but Austin refuses to see you."
"Alright," says a sad Katherine. "Tyler, I want to thank you for everything you're doing to help Austin while he's here."
"My pleasure, Mrs. Channing," Tyler says. "If you hadn't given my father his old job back at Wenworth last year, my parents would've lost everything. It's the least I can do." Tyler nods, then turns and walks out.
"Richard, what am I going to do?" Katherine asks after Tyler leaves. "My son hates me. He's stuck in this God-awful jail."
"Don't lose hope," Richard says, embracing her. "Austin will come around. Eventually he'll realize what a wonderful mother you've been to him all his life."
Meanwhile, laying on his bunk in his cell, Austin is staring up at the ceiling. Tears begin to fall from his eyes as he thinks about the impossible situation he's now in. And this whole thing happened to him because he gave Jan Pierce a ride home that day when her car broke down.
The Omni Hotel....
"Still no luck?" Vicky asks.
"No."
"Jeremy, maybe you should just let that attorney Austin's mother hired do his job."
"No way in hell. I wouldn't trust any attorney Katherine hired to get my son out of a traffic ticket, much less a trumped up murder charge."
"Austin is her son, too. Surely you don't think Katherine wouldn't hire the best attorney around to represent him."
"Jeremy, you can't mean that."
"I DO mean it, Victoria. You have no idea what kind of a woman Katherine Wentworth is. This is a woman who attempted to murder a man she claimed she was in love with. A woman who lied to me and told me that my own son was dead. Damn, I hate that woman for everything she's done. For all the years I lost with my son. For all the years Jonathon and Alex lost with their brother." Jeremy looks at his watch. "Damn it, why hasn't John Ross Ewing returned my call."
"John Ross Ewing?" Vicky asks, taking a seat in a chair. "You mean, Alex's friend.......ummm, Alex Walton's father?"
"Yes. He's a business associate."
"And Michael Channing's wife's ex-lover," says Vicky. "Jeremy, what's going on? What business could you possibly have with him? Unless it has something to do with your vendetta against the Channings."
"How?" Vicky asks.
"The Ewings possess a lot of power and political clout in this city. If anyone can help me, it's John Ross Ewing."
Meanwhile....the hotel pool
"Yeah, I'm fine," Jonathon replies.
"Water feels awesome. Come on, race me across the pool."
"I don't feel like it."
"Jonathon, what's going on?" Alex asks. "You've been grumpy ever since we've been in Dallas. Is it because of your mother?"
"Alex, look, man, I'm sorry that I'm not good company today," says Jonathon. "I just have an awful lot on my mind. Hey, why don't you call up your friend who lives here? That kid you met at the hotel when he was visiting San Francisco a couple months back. What was his name?"
"Alex."
"Your friend's name was Alex, too?" Jonathon asks.
"Yeah. Dude, that's a great idea. I'll call him right now and see if he's doing anything."
"Good, maybe he'll get you outta my hair for a while," Jonathon jokes.
Alex laughs as he reaches into his bag on the ground beside him and pulls out his cell phone. He dials Alex Walton's number and waits for an answer.
Southfork......late afternoon
"John Ross," she says softly.
"The hell are you doin' here?" He asks angrily.
"We need to talk, John Ross."
"There is NOTHING that you have to say that I wanna hear," John Ross says. "I can't even stand to look at you right now."
"John Ross, please......"
"I CAN'T EVEN STAND TO LOOK AT YOUR RIGHT NOW, KNOWING YOU HAD SEX WITH CLIFF BARNES'S SON!!" John Ross yells. "The thought of that makes me sick, Krystina!"
"I know, and I am SO sorry, John Ross," Krystina says in tears. "There's no excuse for what I did, but I was so hurt when I thought you were having an affair with that girl."
"And that is EXACTLY what Brad Stone and Michael Channing were countin' on."
"Channing and Brad Stone were workin' together to set us up. Stone admitted it to me. The whole thing was a set up to make you believe I was cheatin' on you, and drive you into Stone's arms to break up our marriage and give Elena ammunition to take my son away."
"What? Brad and Michael Channing came up with a plan to......"
"Yes, Krystina, they did," says John Ross. "And you fell right into that trap by believin' their lie that I was havin' an affair."
"What was I supposed to think? John Ross, you have a past........"
"A past as a cheater. I KNOW that. But I was NOT lyin' when I said I hadn't cheated on you. But you..........you couldn't wait to hightail it to Brad Stone and jump in bed with him."
"John Ross, I made a huge mistake. I am SO sorry. If I could take it back, I would," Krystina says as she begins to cry. I will spend the rest of my life making this up to you."
"I just want you outta my sight, Krystina," John Ross says. "After you had sex with Cliff Barnes's bastard son, I can't even stand to look at you, much less sleep in the same bed with you."
"John Ross, please, I......"
"I woulda killed Brad Stone if Christopher hadn't stopped me," says John Ross. "And the longer I look at you, the madder I'm gettin', and the more I wanna go back and finish the job. So the best thing you can do for me, yourself, and your lover is to go pack your bags and get the hell OUT of this house."
John Ross sighs. "Alex, what are you doin' here?"
"Mom brought me over to spend the day. I've been out riding." Alex walks over to them. "I saw your car drive up, and I was hoping you could drive me into Dallas to hang out with a friend. Guys, what's goin' on? What are you fighting about?"
"It's just a big misunderstanding, Alex," Krystina says. "Nothing for you to worry about."
"Come on, I'll take you to spend some time with your friend," John Ross tells his son. "Let's go."
Alex looks at Krystina, then walks out of the room.
Krystina takes a seat on the stairs as she cries, devastated over John Ross's stinging rejection.
"John Ross Ewing III?" One of the officers asks.
"Yes, that's right," replies John Ross.
"Mr. Ewing, we have a warrant for your arrest."
"Arrest? For what?" Alex asks.
"For assault," replies one of the officers.
"Mr. Ewing, place your hands behind your back," orders one of the officers.
"John Ross, what's going on?" Alex asks.
"Alex, look son, don't you worry," John Ross says as he is handcuffed.
Alex watches in horror as John Ross is led away to the police car and placed in the back.
Texas Health Presbyterian Hospital....evening
Scott takes a syringe from his pocket, and as he is about to inject it into Steven's I.V., he hears the door begin to open. He quickly slips the syringe back into his pocket just as Bum walks in. Bum is surprised to see him.
"Detective Miller," Bum says.
"Mr. Jones. I just came by to see how Steve's doing," Scott lies.
"There's no change. He's still out. The doctor thinks he could still be out for quite some time because of the concussion."
"I see. Well, I'm sorry to hear that."
"Has there been any break in the case?" Bum asks.
"No. I'm afraid not. But don't you worry. We're doing everything we can to find out who did this to Steve."
"Good," says Bum.
An awkward silence follows. "Well," Scott finally says. "I'd better get back to the station, I just wanted to check on my partner. Please, Mr. Jones, as soon as Steve starts to wake up, give me a call."
"I will, Detective, and thank you."
"Sure," Scott says, then he walks past Bum and out of the room.
Meanwhile......Dallas Police Department
Meanwhile.....Perry's Steakhouse
"You're welcome, Mrs. Ewing. If I can get you anything else, just let me know."
"I will, Tiffany."
The waitress smiles, then walks away.
Sue Ellen looks at Catlin. "Darling, what's wrong? You've barely touched your dinner."
"I'm sorry. I'm just not as hungry as I thought."
"Catlin, is everything alright? You haven't been yourself lately."
"Then what is it?"
"Sue Ellen, there's something that we need to talk about."
"Sounds serious," she says.
"It's about my wife, Brittany," Catlin says.
"Brittany? I see. Do you know where she is?"
"Yes. She's here, in Dallas."
"Yes. She showed up at my hotel suite a few days ago."
"A few days? You've known she was in town for a few days and you never said anything to me about it?"
"I didn't wanna upset you," says Catlin.
"So what did she say?"
"She refuses to sign the divorce papers."
An angry look comes over Sue Ellen's face. "This is all John Ross's fault. If he hadn't meddled in our relationship."
"Brittany claims she doesn't know John Ross."
"Well, of course. What did you expect her to do, admit that John Ross is responsible for bringing her to Dallas to cause problems for you?"
"No," Catlin says with a sigh.
Sue Ellen looks at him. "Catlin, I'm very sorry for what my son has done."
"It's not your fault, Sue Ellen. Besides, it could be a good thing that Brittany is in town."
"A good thing?" Sue Ellen asks.
"Yes. Now that I know where she is, it'll be easier to obtain my divorce."
"I'm a very lucky man, Sue Ellen, having a woman like you in my life. When my marriage to Brittany ended, I never thought that I would find love again. And then I met you."
"And I can't tell you how grateful I am that you came into my life," Sue Ellen says as her cell phone rings. "Hold that thought," she says. She picks her phone up from the table and answers. "Hello?" The smile fades from her face as she listens to the person on the other end of the line. "When? Oh my God. What happened? Yes. Thank you for calling, Bobby. I'll meet you there." Sue Ellen ends the call and puts her phone down, her face showing that she is upset.
"Sue Ellen, what is it?" Catlin asks.
"That was Bobby. John Ross has been arrested."
"Arrested? My God, for what?"
"For assaulting someone. I have to get to the police station."
"Come on, I'll drive you," says Catlin.
Justin and Amanda's home....
"Hey," says Justin.
"Dinner's been ready for a while."
"I got held up at the office," Justin says, taking a seat at the office. "It's been a busy week with the fundraiser bein' tomorrow night."
"I know. I can't wait."
"So what'd you do today?" Justin asks.
"Yeah, I had to meet with a group of investors, and then I had to confirm the entertainment for tomorrow night's event, since Afton Cooper couldn't make it. So, after you found out I was gone already, what'd you do? Have lunch alone?"
"No," Amanda replies quickly. "Actually, I just went and did a little shopping," she lies, the words coming out of her mouth before she has time to think about it.
"Oh? What'd ya buy?" Justin asks.
"I just bought a handbag, to go with my dress for tomorrow night."
Justin looks at his wife and nods, deeply hurt that Amanda is lying to him. "Oh, that's cool. I'm, uh, I'm not really that hungry tonight, so I think I'm just gonna go upstairs, take a shower, and go to bed. We have a long day ahead tomorrow. And a big day."
"Yeah, we do," Amanda says. "I'll be up soon. I just wanna clear these dishes and put this food away."
"Alright," Justin says, getting up from the table. He looks at her, then turns and leaves the room.
After he's gone, Amanda gently hits herself on the head. "Damn it, Amanda," she whispers to herself. "Why? Why did I lie to him about lunch? Jimmy and I just had lunch together. Nothing wrong with that."
Dallas Police Department....
"John Ross, are you alright?" Sue Ellen asks.
"What exactly happened, John Ross?" Jay asks.
"What are you doin' here?"
"Bobby called me and asked me to represent you," says Jay.
"I got in a fight with Brad Stone."
"For God's sake, why?" Sue Ellen asks.
"Because Stone slept with my wife."
Sue Ellen looks shocked. "Krystina slept with Marilee Stone's son?"
"Yep. Brad Stone, the son of Marilee Stone and Cliff Barnes."
"What? Cliff Barnes?"
"That's right, Mama. Cliff Barnes is Stone's biological father. You weren't the only lady Cliff was bangin' back in those days. Seems Marilee was part of his harem, too."
Sue Ellen looks at her son angrily.
"John Ross, I'm sorry," Jay says. "So what happened, you found out your wife was having an affair with Stone, and you punched him?"
"It's more'n that, Jay. Stone set me up. Stone, and Michael Channing."
"Michael Channing? Richard Channing's son?" Sue Ellen asks.
"Yep. And Elena's husband. They set it up so that it would look like I was cheatin' on Krystina. Stone made sure that Krystina saw me leavin' a young lady's house yesterday afternoon when I went there to retrieve my phone, which this girl supposedly had picked up by accident in the restaurant I had lunch in yesterday. Krystina believed I was cheatin' on her, and what the hell did she do? She ran straight into Stone's arms and spent the night with that snake last night."
"Oh my God, John Ross," Sue Ellen says. "I am so sorry."
"John Ross, I can appreciate how you feel," Jay says. "But assaulting Stone was really dumb."
"You aint tellin' me nothin' I don't already know, Smithfield," John Ross says. "This whole thing was set up by Channing and Stone for two reasons......because Stone wanted to get back at me for somethin', and Channing wanted to make sure I look as bad as possible to a judge so that Elena could try to take custody of my son away from me! But I am NOT gonna let that happen."
"Okay, just calm down. Now look, I'm gonna see about getting you out of here, but, since it's so late, it won't be until morning. But I'll speak with the chief and make sure you're put in an isolated cell. I'm gonna also see if we can't get these charges dropped under the circumstances."
"Jay isn't there anything we can do about getting John Ross out of here tonight?" Sue Ellen asks.
"I'm afraid not," Jay replies. "But I'll speak to the judge first thing in the morning about an arraignment and bail. In the meantime, John Ross, just sit tight."
"Do I really have a choice but to sit tight?" John Ross asks angrily.
"John Ross, just try and relax," Sue Ellen says. "I'll see you tomorrow morning."
John Ross nods as all three stand. Then he turns and is led from the room by a guard.
The next morning....
"How could you?" Sue Ellen asks. "How could you do this to my son?"
"Sue Ellen, please, let me explain."
"Explain? EXPLAIN? Explain how you went to bed with another man? And not just any man, but with Cliff Barnes's son!? John Ross loved you, Krystina, and I honestly thought you were the perfect woman for him."
"Sue Ellen, I thought that John Ross was having an affair."
"And so you decided to pay him back by sleeping with Bradley Stone," Sue Ellen says angrily.
"It wasn't like that, Sue Ellen. I was so angry and so hurt by what I thought John Ross had done," Krystina
"How DARE you say that to me," says an angry Sue Ellen, walking over to her.
"And how dare YOU stand there and judge me for my mistakes when you've made enough to fill an entire book. Look, Sue Ellen, this is between your son and me. We don't want or need your interference in this."
Sue Ellen walks over to her. "You hurt my son very much, and because of YOU, John Ross spent the night in jail."
"What happened between myself and Brad was a huge mistake, Sue Ellen. Not that I feel the need to explain anything to you. But it was a MISTAKE."
"I have been around long enough to know that cheating is never a MISTAKE, Krystina," Sue Ellen says. "It's a conscious choice. One that YOU made, and one that you will come to regret." Without another word, Sue Ellen walks out of the suite, leaving Krystina angry.
Cliff and Afton's apartment....
"Morning, Cliff," Brad says, walking into the apartment.
"Hey, I'm sorry I haven't been in touch lately, but the last few days have been crazy."
"Yeah, I know, Cliff. I heard about Pamela's baby. I'm sorry. Have there been any leads?"
"No, unfortunately, there haven't been any leads," Cliff says as Afton, Pamela, and Tripp come down the stairs.
"Cliff," Afton says.
"Oh, hello, everyone," Cliff says. "Ummm, I'd like for you all to meet Bradley Stone, my son. Pamela, this is your brother."
"Tripp," Brad says, shaking hands with his new brother-in-law. "Well, listen, I just came by to talk to Cliff, and I wanna say how sorry I am for everything you all are going through right now. And if there's anything, I can do.....anything at all, just let me know."
"Thanks, man, we really appreciate that," says Tripp.
"No problem. I'll be on my way."
"Thanks for coming by," Cliff says, walking his son to the door. "I'll give you a call when all this stuff is over."
"Okay, and let me know when there's any news about the baby."
"I will," Cliff says as Brad leaves.
"News about the baby?" Pamela says, near tears. "I wonder if there's ever going to BE any news about the baby."
"Honey, of course there will," Tripp says, embracing his wife.
"If we don't hear something soon, I swear I'm gonna lose my mind," Pamela cries.
Justin and Amanda's home....
"Hi," he says.
"Hi. Justin already left for the office."
"Yeah, I know," Jimmy says, walking into the house.
"Then why are you here?" Amanda asks.
"Because I wanted to see you, talk to you," Jimmy replies.
"Keep doing what?"
"THIS. It's just.......wrong, on so many levels."
"Amanda, I can't help how I feel," Jimmy says. "And neither can you. Look, I know that nothing can ever happen between us. I get that. You're married to my best friend. But that doesn't stop me from wanting..... from NEEDING to see you, and just be with you any chance I can get. Even as friends."
"Jimmy, please. Tonight, after that stupid fundraiser is over........I don't think you should come around here as often."
"And how do we explain that to Justin?" Jimmy asks.
"Tell him you're busy or something. Or, better yet, why don't you go back east and visit your parents and your sisters?"
"When I brought that up yesterday, you said you didn't want me to leave Dallas."
"Maybe it would be best if you did," Amanda says.
"Why, Amanda? Because you don't trust yourself around me because of your feelings?"
"Jimmy, I love Justin. He is SUCH a good person. Most of my life I've been treated like crap by men. My father, every boyfriend I had in high school. Cliff Barnes. John Ross. Christopher. And then I met Justin, and he is the ONLY man that has ever been so good to me."
"Christopher? Wait a second, what do you mean........Christopher?"
Amanda turns away from him.
"Amanda, did you and Christopher have somethin' goin' on?" Jimmy asks.
"Yes, we did."
"When was this?" Jimmy asks.
"When I was married to John Ross. I was so unhappy. Justin doesn't know." She turns back to face him. "Jimmy, Justin Ewing is the most honest, the most decent, and the kindest man I have ever known. I won't continue to betray him like this, which is why we cannot be around each other anymore."
"Amanda, we're not betraying him."
"Yes we are. Don't you see that by having feelings for each other, we are betraying Justin."
As Jimmy and Amanda continue to talk, they are unaware that Jeremy is standing on the back porch of the house. Having seen Jimmy's car drive up, a curious Jeremy had come to the house from where he was working on the ranch. He looks through the kitchen window and sees Jimmy and Amanda, seemingly
Jimmy gives Jeremy an angry look. "I just came over to talk to Amanda about the fundraiser tonight."
"Oh, yeah, the fundraiser. I'll be there," Jeremy says.
"YOU?"
"Yeah. That surprise ya, Jimmy? That a nobody like me, a lowly ranch hand, would be invited to such a swanky affair as that? Amanda IS my sister, ya know, so naturally, Justin asked me to come to his event. I wonder what he'd say if he knew what was really goin' on between you and his wife."
Jimmy closes the door and moves closer to Jeremy, their faces just inches apart. "I don't like what you're implying."
"I really don't give a damn what you like," says Jeremy.
"Amanda and I are friends, that's all."
"Sure looked like more'n that to me."
"What, are you SPYING on us through the window? My advice is to just forget what you saw." Jimmy brushes past Jeremy and walks down the steps of the porch leading to the back yard.
"Oh, by the way, Jimmy?" Jeremy says.
"I'm guessin' that you're not gonna be takin' Katelyn to the fundraiser tonight," Jeremy says. "You do remember, Katelyn, don't you, Jimmy? She's that hot little chick you threw over 'cause you're in love with my sister. Man, you don't know what you missed out on. That Katie chick.......she is DAMNED good in bed. You have a nice day, now."
Jeremy smiles, then walks off the porch past Jimmy and heads back in the direction of the barn, leaving Jimmy both angry and worried.
Dallas Police Station....
"I bet it feels great to walk out of there a free man," Jill comments.
"Damn right," John Ross says.
"Now listen, I want you to remember," says Jay. "You're just out on bail. DON'T mess this up, John Ross. Stay out of trouble, and stay away from Brad Stone."
"We'll make sure he does," Bobby says.
"John Ross.......deal?" Jay asks.
"Come on, John Ross, I'll drive you home," Sue Ellen says. "I'm sure you need some rest."
"I'd appreciate you drivin' me home, Mama, but just to shower, change, and get my car so I can go to the office."
"You're coming to the office today?" Bobby asks. "John Ross, you must be exhausted after spending the night in jail."
"I'm fine. Besides, we got the fundraiser for the J.R. Ewing Foundation tonight and I got a lotta work to do."
Bobby and Sue Ellen exchange worried looks as John Ross walks away.
Calvary Hill Funeral Home....later
"Joanna?" Mitch calls to her.
The woman turns around to face them. She is Joanna Pearce Matthews. "Mitch? Mitch, what are you doing here?"
Mitch and Afton walk over to her. "I know about Jesse. That he was my son."
"I've been out of the country for some time. My sister phoned me and told me about my son. Mitch, I had no idea Jesse had contacted you."
"Jesse had been in touch with me," Afton says.
"Uh, Joanna, you remember my sister, Afton?"
"Yes, of course," says Joanna. "But why would my son have gotten in touch with you?"
"Jesse wrote a letter," Afton says, reaching into her purse. She hands the letter to Joanna. "It explains everything."
"Joanna, why didn't you ever tell me about Jesse?"
"Because of your wife, Mitch. She got me fired from my job at the burn center in Atlanta, and then she paid me to get out of town and out of your life. She also threatened me."
"Lucy threatened you?" Mitch asks.
"Yep. Said she was gonna fight for you, any way she had to. So, I just packed up and moved away. Had Jesse, and raised him on my own until I met a wonderful man who married me and adopted my son."
"Joanna, I am so sorry for what happened. If I had known about your pregnancy, I would've done something. I would've helped you, and helped raise Jesse."
"Your wife wasn't about to let that happen," Joanna says. "Speaking of Mrs. Cooper, how is she? You still married to her?"
"No," Mitch replies. "Lucy and I divorced in 1988."
Joanna manages a smile. "Well, I was right, sort of."
"Excuse me?"
"I told your wife........Lucy.........I told her that she'd end up losing you again. Only I didn't give the marriage nearly as long as it actually lasted. Well, did you ever marry again? Have kids?"
"Yes, I did. My second wife and I have two children, a son, Daniel, and a daughter, Jessica."
"Congratulations. I have a daughter. She's at the hotel. We just came here to take Jesse back home to Florida to bury him."
"Joanna, I'd like to help," Mitch says. "I could help pay for the funeral."
"No, Mitch, you don't have to do that," Joanna says.
"I missed out on more than 30 years of Jesse's life, and now, I'll never get the chance to know him. This is the least I can do. I'd also like to attend the funeral."
"You and Jesse.......you would've gotten along so well."
"I'd like to think so," Mitch says.
Perry's Steakhouse....
"Your server will be with you ladies in a few minutes," the hostess says.
"Thank you," Brittany says as the girl turns and walks away. "Well, Mrs. Ewing. Very nice to meet you."
"I'm sorry that I can't say the same," Sue Ellen remarks with a smile.
"I see that you're angry with me because of Catlin."
"Mrs. Ewing......."
"Oh, please, call me Brittany. After all, we did marry into the same family."
"Fine.......Brittany.......why don't you just save us all a lot of time and trouble and just grant Catlin his divorce?"
"Well, as I told Catlin, I'm not ready to be a divorced woman just yet. I like being Mrs. Ewing."
"You left Catlin more than five years ago. Deserted him, and your son," Sue Ellen says. "The only reason you're here is because my son happened to dig you up wherever it is you've been all this time and bring you to Dallas to cause problems between myself and Catlin."
"Come off it, Brittany," Sue Ellen says. "I know that you're lying through your teeth right now. How do I know? Because I know my son. I'm already aware that John Ross is the one who discovered that you and Catlin had never been officially divorced. So it's no coincidence, you suddenly showing up here in Dallas."
"Well, I'm sorry to disappoint you, Sue Ellen, but that's exactly what it is.......a coincidence."
"Brittany, let's cut the crap and get down to business. What would it take to get you to sign those divorce papers so that Catlin can get on with his life?"
Brittany smiles. "Are you offering to PAY me to divorce my husband?"
"Whatever John Ross paid you, I'll double it," Sue Ellen says.
"My. You really must want my husband very badly. Desperate, are we, Sue Ellen?"
"Who the hell are you to tell me I don't care about my husband and son?" Brittany asks, angrily.
"Have you even seen Catlin, Jr. since you've been in Dallas?" Sue Ellen asks. "Let me give you fair warning, MRS. Ewing. I am in love with Catlin, and I'm prepared to fight you tooth and nail for him. And believe me, I WILL win, because you see, I was taught by the master himself, J.R. Ewing, the art of playing dirty. So if you're determined to stick around and continue to deny Catlin his freedom.......then be prepared for one hell of a fight." Without another word to her new rival, Sue Ellen gets up from the table and leaves. Brittany smiles and shakes her head.
Ewing Oil....
"We've gotten a lot of pledges from people who wanna invest in the Foundation," Jimmy says.
"Good. Yeah, that's good," Justin says. "So, you lookin' forward to the fundraiser tonight?"
"Yeah, I am."
"You deserve a lot of credit," says Justin. "You and my wife. You both worked real hard to make this event a success."
"I couldn't have done it without Amanda's help," Jimmy says.
"Yes she is. You're really a lucky man, bro."
Justin looks at him for a moment. "I sure am. Real lucky."
"By the way, is your Mom gonna be here tonight for the fundraiser?"
"Yeah, she is."
"That's awesome. It'll be great to see Cally again."
"Yeah," Justin says. "So, Jimmy, ummm, now that you and Katie aren't seein' one another anymore, who are ya bringin' as a date tonight?"
"Tell you the truth, I haven't even thought about it. I'm probably just gonna go stag."
"What about one of the girls here at Ewing Oil?" Justin asks.
"Well Courtney is going with Christopher of course, and I'm sure Janice and Sally already have dates."
"Yeah. You're prob'ly right about that. It was just a thought."
"I don't mind going alone," Jimmy says. "Kinda use to it by now. Well, all the names of the new investors are filed away, so, I'm gonna take off for lunch now, then I have some errands to run before tonight's benefit."
"Okay. I'll see ya tonight."
"See you tonight, bro," Jimmy says, then walks out of the office.
Justin sighs deeply. "It just can't be," he says to himself. "I've gotta be readin' more into this than there is. No way Jimmy would ever betray me by messin' around with my wife. No way."
Meanwhile.....John Ross's office
The Omni Hotel pool.....
Alex Walton is hanging out at the Omni Hotel swimming pool with Jeremy and Vicky Lord's son, Alex, that afternoon. While Alex Walton is sitting in a lounge chair getting some sun, Alex Lord is admiring every pretty girl who walks by.
"Dude, did you see that one?" Alex Lord asks, exchanging a smile with a blonde who walks by him.
"Bro, what's up with you today?" Alex Lord asks.
"Sorry man. Just worried about John Ross."
"But you said he got out of jail this morning."
"Yeah, he did, but those assault charges are still hanging over his head."
"I know what you mean," Alex Lord says. "My Dad has been really stressed since he found out my half-brother Austin was in jail here in Dallas."
"Dude, I just can't get over the fact that Austin Wentworth is your brother," says Alex Walton. "I mean, talk about a small world."
"Do you know Austin?"
"Not really. But, John Ross's Uncle Bobby, my great-uncle, use to be married to Austin's mother's sister, Pam. Bobby and Pam have a son, Christopher."
"Small world," says Alex Lord. "Who would've thought when you and I met when you were in San Francisco with your Dad that, we actually had some crazy kinda family connection."
"Yeah, I know," Alex Walton says as Jeremy and Vicky walk over to the boys.
"Alex," Vicky says to her son.
"Oh, hey Mom, Dad. You remember my friend, Alex Walton."
Vicky smiles. "Of course. Hello, Alex."
"Hi, Mrs. Lord, Mr. Lord."
"You're John Ross Ewing's son, aren't you?" Jeremy asks.
"Yes, sir."
"I've been trying to reach your father, but he hasn't answered or returned my calls."
"Dad, you know Alex's father?" Alex Lord asks.
"Yes, John Ross and I are.....business associates, of sorts."
"I'll tell him to give you a call, Mr. Lord," Alex Walton says.
"Thank you, son, I would appreciate that."
"Honey, your father and I are going to eat, and then we're probably gonna stop by the jail for your father to see Austin," Vicky tells her son. "We'll be back in a little while. Do you have your room key?"
"Yeah, it's in my bag," the teenager replies. "Dad, when am I gonna meet my new brother?"
"Soon," Jeremy replies.
"Alex, it was nice seeing you again," Vicky says to her son's friend as she and Jeremy walk away.
"Your folks seem nice," Alex Walton says. "But, I didn't know your Dad knew John Ross."
"Yeah, neither did I. Hey, come on, let's get in the pool. I'll race you."
"You're on," Alex Walton says.
"Hey, no fair, dude, you cheated!" Alex Walton says, jumping into the pool behind his friend.
Meanwhile....a Dallas City Hall
"I'm both surprised and happy that you came," Brad says.
"What the hell do you want, Stone?"
"Like I said on the phone, to talk business."
"If you really believe that, John Ross, then why'd you even agree to meet me here?" Brad asks.
"Just say whatever the hell it is you wanna say."
"Okay. I wanna make a little deal with you. One that's beneficial to us both."
"And what deal might that be?" John Ross asks.
"And if I say no?"
"Then the assault charges will stick. I do have witnesses, including your....... oh, excuse me, OUR......own cousin, Christopher. I also want your word, for what it's worth, that my little college indiscretion will remain buried. It's up to you, John Ross. You can have an assault charge on your permanent record, or, just give me back the oil wells that rightfully belong to my family. And I do mean ALL, of the wells, which also include the ones you blackmailed my mother into selling to you by threatening to expose the fact that Cliff Barnes is my father."
"I'll play ball," John Ross says. "Drop those charges, and those wells are yours."
Brad smiles. "Good. I knew you'd see it my way. I'll have my attorney draw up the papers, and we can sign them by the end of business today."
Brad smiles at him. "Yeah, I'll keep that in mind. I'll be in touch."
John Ross turns and walks away from him.
Dallas......Hyatt Regency Hotel Ballroom......that night
"Margaret, it's wonderful to see you," Bobby says, hugging his obviously pregnant niece.
"Thanks, Uncle Bobby, it's great to see you, too."
"Matt, how are ya?" Bobby asks, shaking the young senator's hand.
"Matt it looks like impending fatherhood is agreein' with you," Ann says.
Matt laughs. "It certainly is, Ann. I literally cannot wait until my son or daughter is finally born."
"Bob, is John Ross here?" Ray asks.
"Yes, he is, Ray."
"I'm kinda surprised, after his arrest yesterday."
"Now, Margaret, John Ross is your cousin, after all," Bobby says.
"Yeah, a cousin who was trying to blackmail Matt only about a year and a half ago," Margaret says.
"Yeah, long story," Matt says.
Christopher and Courtney, along with Courtney's mother Phyllis, walk over to join the group at that point. "Hey, guys," Christopher says.
"Hello, son," Bobby says. "Phyllis, it's so great to see you." Bobby greets his former secretary with a hug and a kiss on the cheek. "You look just great."
"Thank you, Bobby, and YOU are as handsome and charming as always," Phyllis says.
"Phyllis, you know my wife, Ann, and you remember Ray and Donna?"
"Of course."
"Phyllis, it's been a real long time," Ray says.
"Yes, it certainly has."
"Phyllis, how are you?" Donna asks.
"I'm wonderful, Donna, thank you. And, I don't have to ask how you're doing. I heard the two of you had remarried. Congratulations to you both."
"Thank ya," Ray says.
Meanwhile, as John Ross stands alone at the bar sipping on a glass of bourbon, Sue Ellen and Catlin walk over to him.
"John Ross," Sue Ellen says.
"Mama. Catlin."
"Hello, John Ross," Catlin says.
"How do you feel?" Sue Ellen asks.
"Little better. The charges were dropped."
"Dropped? How'd that happen?"
"I made a little deal with Brad Stone. Somethin' he wanted in exchange for droppin' the charges."
"I'm goin' outta town tomorrow," John Ross says.
"Out of town? To where?"
"San Francisco. I'm goin' to Emma's weddin' with Uncle Bobby and Ann."
"You're going to Emma Ryland's wedding? To Richard Channing's son?" Asks a stunned Sue Ellen.
"Yes I am. I need to get away from Dallas for a couple days, and it'll be the perfect chance to see Michael Channing, the son of a bitch who worked with Brad Stone to set me up and destroy my marriage."
Sue Ellen looks at her son with concern.
"You look great tonight, Courtney," he says to her.
"Thanks, Lucas. So where's Heather?"
"She actually stayed at Southfork with Michael. He had a bad stomach ache and a fever all day, so she didn't wanna leave him."
"She is such a good mother to him."
"Yes she is. And I know that you'll be a good mother one of these days, too," Lucas says.
The smile fades from Courtney's face as Christopher and Phyllis walk over to them.
"Hey, what are you two talkin' about?" Christopher asks with a smile.
"Lucas was just telling me that Michael is sick and Heather stayed home with him," replies Courtney.
"Who are Heather and Michael?" Phyllis asks.
"Michael is Lucas's son," replies Christopher. "And Heather is Michael's mother."
"Oh, I see. Would you two handsome Ewing men mind if I borrowed my daughter for a couple minutes?" Phyllis asks.
"Of course not, as long as you bring her back soon," says Christopher.
Phyllis laughs. "I promise." She takes her daughter by the arm and the two walk away from Lucas and Christopher, Courtney taking off her jacket. She hands it to a uniformed valet.
"Mom, what's up?" Courtney asks.
"You and Christopher seem to be getting really close," says Phyllis.
"Yes, we are."
"You're in love with him?"
"Yes."
"And, I take it you haven't told him."
"I know we did," says Phyllis. "But honey, it's obvious Christopher loves you. And he deserves to know the truth."
"You know how painful this is for me to talk about."
"Yes. But Courtney, before this relationship goes any further......sweety, you have to tell him."
"Honey, if he loves you the way I think he does, you WON'T lose him."
Tripp and Pamela's apartment....
"Good," Tracey says. "The more she sleeps, the better for her, so she doesn't have to deal with this nightmare."
"Honestly, if the cops don't find the baby soon, I think Pamela and I are both goin' crazy," Tripp says.
"I know what ya mean," says Cliff.
"I can't just sit here," Tripp says. "I have to do something."
"Like what?" Tracey asks.
"I don't know, Aunt Tracey. SOMETHING besides just sitting around here waiting. I'm going out of my mind. That's my son out there in the hands of some maniac. If we don't get him back soon, there's no telling what that bastard could do to him......if he hasn't already hurt him. Or worse."
"Tripp, for God's sake, don't say that," says Afton.
"I'm sorry. I'm just........" Tripp stops talking as he starts to cry. Tracey walks over and embraces her nephew.
At that moment, Afton's cell phone rings. She takes the phone from her pocket and answers. "Hello," she says.
"Afton," says a raspy voice.
"Yes? Who is this?"
"You know who this is. If you're not alone, don't let on that you're talking to me. Not if you ever wanna see your grandson alive again."
A look of pure fear comes over Afton's face. "Would you all excuse me?" She asks Cliff, Tracey, and Tripp. "It's business with the club." She walks into the kitchen. "What the hell do you want?" She asks the caller. "If you hurt my grandchild, I swear to God, I'll....."
"Just shut up and listen, Afton," the voice says. "I have your grandson. And if you ever want to see him again, then you'll meet me. Now. Come to 1157 Old Summit Road, and come alone. Once you're here, then, your grandson will be safely returned to his parents."
"How do I know you're telling me the truth? How do I know you even have the baby?" Afton whispers.
"Check your messages. I just sent a photo."
Afton opens her messaging app, then opens a new message from an unknown caller. She gasps when she sees a photo of her infant grandson in a crib in a darkened room. She chokes back tears.
"Afton?"
"Yes?" She says to her caller.
"Do we have a deal? YOU in exchange for your grandson?"
"Yes. We have a deal."
"Good. I'll be expecting you in 30 minutes. And come alone. The minute I even suspect you've double crossed me, you'll never see this sweet little baby again. And don't let anybody know where you're going. 30 minutes, Afton." The caller hangs up.
"Oh my God," Afton cries. She quickly composes herself, then walks back into the living room. "I'm sorry, everyone, but I have to go for a while."
"Go?" Cliff asks. "Go where?"
"There's a problem at the club that I have to take care of," Afton says.
"Can't someone else take care of it for you?"
"No, Cliff. Since Jan is gone, there is no one else. I have to take care of this myself. It won't take long."
"NO!" Afton says quickly. "Cliff, just stay here, and be here in case Pamela wakes up. I'll go and take care of what I need to take care of, and I'll be back."
"Okay, well, be careful," says Cliff.
"I will." Afton grabs her purse and quickly rushes out of the apartment.
"Was it me, or was she acting very strangely?" Cliff asks after she leaves.
A house on the outskirts of Dallas.....later
"Don't touch the baby," comes a man's voice from behind her. A FAMILIAR man's voice. Afton slowly turns around and she is stunned to see Detective Scott Miller standing in the foyer.
"Detective Miller?" She says. "The stalker. The man who kidnapped my grandson. He is, or WAS here."
"Yes, Afton. It was me."
"But.....why? What in God's name have I ever done to you?"
"You left me," Scott replies calmly.
"I left you?" Afton asks. "What are you talking about?"
"I was very disappointed that you didn't recognize me, Afton. I know it's been a lot of years, and I was just a little kid, but I expected you to remember."
"I have no idea what you're even talking about," Afton cries.
"You don't remember when you use to sing to me when I was a little boy? I still remember that song....... She'll Be Comin' Around The Mountain. But, that all ended when you divorced my father."
Afton gasps. "Oh dear God! No.......no, it can't be."
Afton's mouth falls open in shock upon learning that the detective in charge of investigating her stalker case was in fact, the stalker himself, and that he was the son of the husband she had divorced many years ago!