EPISODE 215 - Just Your Typical Oil Baron's Ball

  John Ross and Krystina come down the stairs and walk into the dining room in the morning, as Bobby, Ann, Christopher, Courtney, Jacob, Lucas, Heather, and Michael are seated at the table having breakfast.  "Gooood mornin', everyone,"  John Ross cheerfully says, taking his seat at the table.  

 

"Morning, John Ross,"  Bobby says.  "Krystina."

 

"Morning, Bobby,"  Krystina says.

 

"My, you're in a good mood this morning,"  says Christopher.

 

"Any reason I shouldn't be?  It's about to be a brand new year, a brand new decade, and we got the Oil Baron's Ball in a couple days.  Lot to look forward to."

 

"Well, hopefully, 2020 will be a better year for this family than 2019 was,"  Heather says.

 

"Amen to that,"  says Ann.

 

"It's amazing how quiet the house is now that all the family who came for Christmas has gone back home now," Courtney says.

 

Bobby smiles slightly.  "Yes, it is.  I miss everyone."

 

"Oh, come on,"  John Ross says.  "It's nice to have Southfork back to normal.  There's too many people in this house already without every single member of this fam'ly comin' to stay, even if only for a few days."

 

"You're all heart, John Ross,"  Lucas says.  

 

"Well, anyway, I think it was just about the best Christmas we've ever had around here,"  Bobby says.  "Almost the entire family was here, and Lucy and Mitch's wedding went off without a hitch.  I'd say we Ewings have a lot to celebrate movin' into a new year.  And it was really nice to see Jill, Craig, and Casey.  Michael, Jacob, I see you two seem to have patched things up with Casey."

 

"Yeah, Casey's changed a lot,"  Jacob says.  "We had a lot of fun."

 

"I can't believe how much Casey has grown since last summer.  He must be at least 4 inches taller,"  Ann says as Michael lowers his head, a sad look on his face as once again he is reminded that he is behind his peers growth wise.  

 

"Well, I have to be goin',"  John Ross says.

 

"John Ross, you've hardly eaten anything,"  says Krystina.

 

"I know, but I have a lot of work to do.  Bein' out of the office over Christmas threw me behind."

 

"I have to be going, too,"  says Lucas.  "I have a lot of work to do today."

 

"Well, son, I'd like to help,"  Bobby says.  "I'll be out to lend a hand in a little while."

 

"Oh, no, you WON'T,"  Ann says.

 

"Dad, it's okay, Lucas and I can handle it,"  says Christopher.  

 

"Yeah, you're still recovering from heart surgery, remember?"  Lucas asks, standing from his seat.  "Chris, you ready to go?"

 

"Yeah, all set.  Courtney, I'll be home around lunch time."

 

"Okay,"  Courtney says.  The two kiss, and  Christopher stands from his seat.

 

"I'll be out in a little while,"  Heather says.

 

"Okay,"  Lucas says, kissing his wife.  "We'll be out in two stick.  We have that herd to move this morning."

 

"Dad, can I help?"  Michael asks.

 

"Not this time, Michael.  Maybe when you're older."

 

"You two have a good day,"  Ann says.

 

"We will,"  Christopher says, he and Lucas leaving the room.  

 

"Well, I'll be goin', too,"  John Ross says.  "I'll be home early, so I can take my beautiful wife out to dinner."

 

Krystina smiles.  "Well, I'll look forward to that."

 

"Could you wait for just a minute before you go?"  Alex asks.

 

"Sure,"  John Ross says.  "Why?"

 

"I'd like to say something while the whole family is here."

 

"Well, Alex, this sounds serious,"  Lucas says.

 

"It is.  In a way."

 

"Well, come on, son, what is it?"  John Ross asks.  "Don't keep us in suspense.  What is it you got to say?"

 

 

"I know I'm a few days late with this, but, I have a couple Christmas gifts that I'd like to give right now,"  Alex says.  "There's something I've been thinking about for a long time now, and, hearing Uncle Bobby read from his mother's journal, that story about her family and that Christmas Eve, it helped me to make a major decision."

 

"What decision, Alex?"  Krystina asks.

 

"This morning, I'm going to the courthouse in Braddock and file a petition to legally change my last name to Ewing,"  Alex replies.

 

John Ross looks at his son and smiles with pride.  "Well, I'll be damned.  Son, you couldn't have given me any better Christmas gift than that.  It's what I been hopin' for for I can't even tell you how long."

 

"Alex, I think that's great,"  Bobby says.

 

"Thanks.  Uncle Bobby, I also have a little present for you,"  Alex says.

 

"For me?"

 

"Yeah.  Your story the other day about the Southworths, it got me really interested in our family history.  So, the other night, I created an account on Ancestry.com and did some research.  And I found out a little bit about your father's side of the family."

 

"My Daddy's side of the family?"  Bobby asks.

 

"Yep.  I'll give you the log in information and you can take a look at it for yourself."

 

Bobby smiles.  "Well, Alex, I really appreciate that.  And it's great to know that a member of the younger generation is so interested in the family history.  I'll take a look at that right after breakfast."

 

"Well, Alex, no need to welcome you to the family since you've been a member of it for a long while now,"  says Christopher.  "But I will say.......congratulations on becoming Alex Ewing."

 

"Alex, have you talked to your Mama about what you decided?"  Heather asks.

 

"No, not yet. I'm gonna call her today.  She probably won't be too happy about it, but it's what I wanna do."

 

"Well, we're just gonna have to have a little celebration tonight when I get home from the office,"  says John Ross.  "I'll be home early.  Krystina, why don't you make us reservations at Perry's for tonight?"

 

"I will."

 

"I'll see you all this evening,"  John Ross says.  "Now this family really does have a lot to look forward to goin' into the new year."  He kisses Krystina, smiles at Alex, and then quickly leaves.  

 Bobby is sitting at his desk in his office at Southfork looking at his computer when Ann walks in carrying a sandwich on a saucer and a glass of soda.  "Brought you a sandwich for lunch,"  she says.

 

"Oh, thanks, honey."

 

"Are you still at that?"

 

"Annie, this is fascinating,"  Bobby says.  "You'll never believe what I've found on here so far.  I put in some of the names from that old family Bible Catlin gave me that belonged to his grandparents, and I found out that my grandparents, Thomas Leander Ewing and Sarah Ross Ewing, lived on a farm outside of Tyler, Texas, and it was there that my Daddy and Uncle Jason were born.  I also found out that my grandmother was the daughter of John and Charlotte Ross."

 

"My goodness, Bobby, you found all that out just in the last couple of hours?"

 

"Yes, I did, thanks to Alex.  And here's the best thing I found."  Bobby turns the computer toward Ann.  "This

old photo of my Daddy and his brother, my Uncle Jason, when they were children."

 

Ann looks at the old photo and smiles.  "Bobby, that's your father?  Which one is Jock?"

 

"The one standing, the younger one.  The caption on the photo dates it at around 1917.  Daddy  was born in 1909, so he would've been 8-years-old that year, and Uncle Jason was about 11. Even as young as he was in this photo, I'd know his smile anywhere.  That smile never changed."

 

"Bobby, this is priceless."

 

"Sure is,"  Bobby says.  "I think I'm gonna print this picture and have it framed.and hang it up somewhere in the house for the whole family to enjoy."

 

"I'll bet Conner and Dylan would love a copy of that picture, too, since their grandfather's in it."

 

"Great idea,"  Bobby says.  "Honey, I'll tell ya, as long as I have to be taking it easy for a while as I recover from my surgery, it's great to have somethin' to occupy my time now, and I've been curious to find out more about my Daddy's side of the family ever since Catlin came to town and gave me what little information he knew about the Ewings.  I only wish I'd been curious about it when Daddy was alive and I'd have asked him some questions about his family.  Of course it might not have done much good."

 

"And why's that?"  Ann asks.

 

"Daddy never talked about his family or his childhood.  And after learning what I have since, I can understand why.  Daddy's parents both died when he and Uncle Jason were still pretty young and  they both ended up in an orphanage.  It had to be a hard life.  And it makes me better understand why my Daddy was the way he was."

 

"Well, if there's anything I can do to help with your family history research, just let me know.  In the meantime, I've got to go into Dallas and pick up my dress for the Oil Baron's Ball tomorrow night, and I'm havin' lunch with Sue Ellen."

 

"Alright, sweetheart, have fun,"  Bobby says, kissing his wife.

 

"I will.  And you have fun with your research,"  Ann says, then leaves the room.

Westar....

 "Mr. Smith, Samantha Chambers is here to see you,"  Shawn's secretary, Carol, says after buzzing his office.  

 

"Send her in, Carol," he replies.  Shawn smiles as he stands from his seat and walks over to the door as Samantha enters the office.  "Ms. Chambers, thank you for coming."

 

"I was intrigued and curious as to what you wanted."

 

"Well, please, come in.  Can I offer you a drink?"

 

"A drink?  Are you even old enough to drink?"  Samantha sarcastically asks.

 

Shawn laughs at the comment as he goes to his bar.  "Well, when you're the CEO of a huge company like Westar, yes.  Drink, Ms. Chamber?"

 

"I'd love one.  Scotch."

 

"Comin' right up."

 

"What is it exactly that you want from me?  Westar itn't exactly on the best of terms with the Cartel."

 

"Yes, I know.  And I'm really hoping we can change that."

 

"Change it?  Change it how?"

 

"Oh, by becoming friends,"  Shawn replies, handing Samantha her drink.  "Or at least.......friendlier.  That's why I wanted to meet with you, Ms. Chambers.  I thought you might be just a little more receptive to the idea of warmer relations between the Cartel and Westar than some of the other Cartel members."

"Why?  Because I'm a woman?"  Samantha asks.

 

"Well, you certainly are a woman, and a very beautiful one at that."

 

"Hmmm......handsome, and charming to boot."

 

"Y'know, Ms. Chambers........mind if I call you Samantha?"

 

"Not at all.  Now then, you said you were hoping for friendlier relations between Westar and The Cartel?"

 

"Yes,"  Shawn says, moving closer to her.  "I do know that your company, Chambers Oil, has very close ties with Ewing Oil.  But Westar can do much more for your company, and for you personally, than Ewing Oil could."

 

"I seriously doubt that.  My family has a long history with the Ewings, going all the way back to my granddaddy."

 

Shawn smiles.  "Look, I'm all for tradition and loyalty.  But I'm talkin' business.  And, maybe a little pleasure on the side."  He puts his hand on Samantha's shoulder and begins massaging it.

 

Samantha laughs slightly.  "Honey, how old are you?"

 

"Old enough,"  Shawn replies.  

 

"You're just a child."

 

"Well, I think I can change your mind about that real fast,"  Shawn says, kissing her.  Still locked in the kiss, Shawn backs Samantha to the desk, and buzzes his secretary's desk.  "Carol,"  he says.  "Hold all my calls and I don't wanna be disturbed for about an hour."  Shawn and Samantha smile at each other, then begin kissing passionately again.

Justin and Pamela's apartment....

 Justin comes down the hall of his and Pamela's apartment and walks into the living room when the doorbell rings.  Opening the door, he is  surprised to find Clay Beaumont there.  "Clay,"  he says.

 

"Hello, Justin.  Can I come in?"

 

"Sure, yeah, come on in,"  Justin says.  As Clay walks in, Justin closes the door.

 

"Hope I didn't come at a bad time."

 

"Not at all.  I am surprised to see you.  You plannin' on stayin' in Dallas, or you headin' back to California?"

 

"No, thank you, Carol,"  Michelle says.  "And, no need to bother telling him I was here, either."

 

"Alright,"  Carol says as a hurt Michelle turns and leaves.  

 

 

 

 

 

Honolulu, Hawaii....

                                                

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 "Oh, Alex, I'm so happy,"  Sue Ellen says, hugging her grandson in her office as Alex and John Ross give her the news that Alex is legally changing his name  to Ewing.  

 

"Bet you couldn't be any happier'n I was when he told me this mornin',"  John Ross says.

 

"So you're really going to be a Ewing in every sense of the word," Sue Ellen says.  "I can't tell you how happy that makes me, and I know your grandfather would be proud."

 

"Thank you for saying that."

 

"How did your mother take the news?"  Sue Ellen asks.

 

 

Alex sighs.  "Well, I haven't exactly told her yet.  I tried to call her, but she's been tied up in meetings all day.  I'll call her again tonight."

 

"And speakin' of tonight, to celebrate, I'm takin' Alex and Krystina out to dinner at Perry's,"  John Ross says.  "And we'd like you to join us if you don't already have plans."

 

"And......Catlin, too, of course,"  Sue Ellen says.

 

"Well, I guess, if he's gotta come, too."

 

Sue Ellen smiles.  "Thank you, and we'd love to."

 

"Great, Perry's at 7?"  Alex asks.

 

"7 it is,"  says Sue Ellen.  

 

"I'll see you both later,"  Alex says.  "I have some work to finish up."

 

"I'll see you later, sweetheart,"  Sue Ellen says as her grandson leaves the office.  "John Ross, I'm so proud."

 

"YOU'RE proud?  How do you think I feel?"

 

"Well, I have another reason to be proud.  I'm very happy that you and I are back to where we should be in our relationship."

 

"Come on, Mama, let's not get mushy.  I'll see you in a bit," John Ross says, then leaves the office.

Cass Winthrop's apartment....

 Lila Winthrop is sitting at the dining room table of Cass's apartment doing something on her laptop when Cass walks into the apartment carrying his brief case.  "Hi,"  he says.

 

"Cass, you're home early,"  Lila says.

 

"Yeah, well, everything was quiet at the office, so we called it a day.  Where's Cory?"

 

"Oh, he went out some place."

 

"Hey, what are you doing there?"  Cass asks.

 

"Just a little research,"  Lila replies.  

 

"Research?"  Cass asks, hanging up his coat.  "What kind of research?"

 

"My, aren't we inquisitive?"

 

"Well, you ARE staying in my home, and using my wifi.  Don't I have a right to know what it's being used for?  On some dating site looking for your next great love?"

 

"No,"  Lila replies.  "If you must know, I was trying to find some information on my mother."

 

"Your mother?  Why?  I mean, why now?  I haven't heard you mention your mother in years."

 

 "I would just like to know a little something about my background.  You know, where I came from,"  Lila says.  "You have no idea what it feels like, not knowing who your father was, and being left all alone when you're a small child after your mother dies.  Cass, my father might still be out there, alive somewhere.  He might even still be in New Orleans."

 

"Lila, do you know how hard, if not impossible it would be to track your father down after all these years?"  Cass asks.  "Your mother was......well, she was a........"

 

"Go ahead and say it, Cass.  My mother was a prostitute."

 

"Yes, she was a prostitute.  And who knows how many........clients........she had over the years.  She didn't even have any idea who your father was, so what makes you think you can find him after more than 45 years?"

 

"Well, there ARE ways,"  says Lila.  "There are all these ancestry sites that offer DNA testing.  I sent a DNA test in a couple of weeks before Christmas, so, if my father is out there, or if I have any relatives out there and they're in the system, I just might be able to finally discover who my father was.  And, I could use your help."

 

"MY help?"

 

"Why, yes.  I was thinking maybe you could help me hire a good detective, if I do find something."

 

"Lila, no."

 

"Come on, Cass."

 

"Lile, why this sudden interest in finding out who your father was?  You said a long time ago that you didn't even care anymore."

 

"That was then,"  Lila says.  "I got to thinkin' about Cory.  Don't you think our son has a right to know his heritage and where he comes from?"

 

Cass looks at her and sighs.  "Yes, I suppose he does.  Okay, I'll help.  However, being new in town, I don't know any good private detectives yet, but, Jay Smithfield would be able to recommend one, I'm sure."

 

"Thank you, Cass."

 

"This is really important to you, isn't it?"  

 

"Yes, it is,"  Lila says.  "I'd like to know who I am, Cass, and I want to be able to pass some kind of heritage on to our son.  A family history, like you've been able to do."

 

Cass nods.  "Alright, then.  I'll help any way I can.  I take it then, that you're planning to stick around for a while?"

 

"As a matter of fact, I am,"  Lila says.  

 

Cass looks at his former wife and smiles, unsure of how he feels about her staying on in Dallas.  

Southfork....that night....

 

Bobby is standing at the bar in the den pouring himself a glass of soda water, a look of disdain on his face.  As he takes a sip, Christopher and Lucas walk into the room talking about their day.

 

"Boy, I sure am glad that's done,"  Christopher says.  

 

"Me, too,"  says Lucas.  "I'm exhausted.  How about a drink?"

 

"Love one,"  Christopher says.  "Hi, Dad."

 

"You boys get the herd moved?"  Bobby asks.

 

"Yeah we did,"  Lucas replies.  

 

"Sure wish I could've been out there to help,"  says Bobby.

 

"Dad, you know you have to take it easy for a while,"  Christopher says.  

 

"Yes, I know.  But I'm bored to tears taking it easy, sitting around this house doing nothing all day."

 

"What about your new hobby?"  Lucas asks.  "I thought you were enjoying researching the Ewing family history."

 

"Well, I am, but I miss the excitement of working on the ranch."

 

"And what about Ewing Oil, do you miss that?"  Christopher asks.  

 

"Yes, I do, but not as much as I miss the ranch."

 

"Speaking of Ewing Oil, now that we got that herd moved, I think it's time I got back to work after the start of the new year,"  Christopher says.  

 

"Bored running the ranch with me?"  Asks Lucas.

 

"No, not at all.  I just feel like with Dad away from Ewing Oil indefinitely, it's time I got back there."

 

"To see what John Ross is up to, huh?"  Lucas asks.

 

"Well, frankly, yes."

 

"Thought so."

 

"Come on, guys, John Ross has been doing a good job running Ewing Oil these last few months,"  Bobby says.  "And he's been doin' things on the up and up."

 

"And that's exactly why I wanna be at the office, Dad.  To make sure he continues to do things on the up and up."

Perry's Steakhouse And Grille....

 

 

Meanwhile, John Ross, Krystina, Alex, Bridget, Sue Ellen, and Catlin are having dinner at Perry's.  

 

"I propose a toast,"  John Ross says, raising his glass.  "To my son, the soon to be  Alexander Ewing."

 

"Here, here,"  Sue Ellen says with a smile as she and the others raise their glasses in a toast.  

 

"Alex, how's it feel to know that you're soon going to be an official Ewing?"  Catlin asks.

 

Alex smiles.  "It feels great.  Really great.  And, my Mom even took the news better than I thought she would.  I expected her to be angry and disappointed, but she understood why I want to do this."

 

"I'm glad Charlie understands,"  says Krystina.

 

"So am I,"  John Ross says.  "But, Alex is an adult and he can do what he wants."

 

"Don't get me wrong,"  Alex says.  "I still love Phillip Walton, and I'll always consider him my Dad, too.  He was the only father I knew until I was 15, but, I feel like it's time I be who I really am, and that's a Ewing."

 

"Alex, I know exactly how you feel,"  says Catlin.  "In a way, at least.  See, I grew up thinking that I wasn't really a Ewing.  My mother and father had a very unhappy marriage by the time I was born, and my father ended up having an affair with another man.  So, I always believed that other man was my biological father.  It wasn't until years after both of my parents were gone that I finally learned, through a DNA test, that Fred Ewing really WAS my father, after all. I was in my late 30s by then, so be thankful you learned the truth at such an early age."

 

"Oh, I am.  I definitely am, and I think changing my name is appropriate now that I'm working more at Ewing Oil."

 

"And Ewing Oil is gonna be your future, son,"  John Ross says with a smile.  "And I have a feeling that our branch of the fam'ly is gonna be runnin' Ewing Oil all on our own real soon."

 

"What makes you say that, John Ross?"  Krystina asks.

 

"Well, darlin', Uncle Bobby is been out of the office for months now, and I get the feelin' that, after his heart attack, he's thinkin' about retirin'.  And Christopher hasn't really beein showin' much interest in the company lately.  He's been spendin' most of his time playin' cowboy out at Southfork, helpin' Lucas run the ranch.  And if Uncle Bobby does decide to retire, Christopher probably won't stick around Ewing Oil, so that will leave the company entirely in the hands of our branch of the family."

 

"Wouldn't J.R. just love that?"  Sue Ellen asks.  "It was always his dream that his son, and one day his grandson run Ewing Oil.  For so long none of us thought that dream could possibly become a reality after Ewing Oil was sold out of the family, but now, we have the company back, and possibly soon in the hands of the branch of the family it was always meant to be in."

 

"Well, I will certainly drink to that,"  says Krystina, taking a sip of her champagne. 

 

"Oh, my, if it isn't the Ewings,"  Shawn says, he and Michelle walking up to their table.  

 

"Hi, Alex.  Bridget,"  Michelle says.

 

"Michelle,"  Bridget greets her sister.

 

"Damned if the standards of this place aren't goin' down fast,"  John Ross says.  "Gettin' so they'll let anybody in here these days."

 

"Yeah, you and Alex are proof of that,"  Shawn says.

 

"Shut your mouth, Shawn, or I'll shut it for you,"  Alex says.

 

"You wanna try that?"  Shawn asks.

 

"Gladly!"  Alex says, standing to his feet.

 

"Alex, no,"  Bridget says, grabbing his arm.  

 

"Shawn, let's just go to our table and have dinner,"  Michelle says.

 

"Better listen to your girl, Smith,"  John Ross says.  

 

"Alex, any time you think you're man enough to shut my mouth, you're welcome to try."

 

"I'll be glad to take you up on that any time,"  says Alex.

 

"Care to step outside right now?"

 

"Let's go."

 

"Alex, NO!"  Bridget says.

 

Catlin stands to face Shawn.  "Look, why don't you two just mosey on along, before there's real trouble?"

 

"Shawn, please, let's go to our table,"  Michelle says.

 

Hesitating a moment, Shawn looks at John Ross, then at Alex.  "I'll  see you all tomorrow night at the Oil Baron's Ball," he says, then turns and walks away with Michelle.

 

Alex and Catlin both retake their seats.  "Can't believe I was ever friends with that jackass,"  Alex says.  "One day he's gonna push me too far and I'm gonna take him apart."

 

"What my sister sees in him, I have no idea,"  Bridget says.

 

"Well, darlin', at least your taste is a thousand times better than that sister of yours,"  says John Ross.  

 

Meanwhile, Shawn and Michelle take their seats at their table.  "Was that really necessary?"  Michelle asks.

 

"Was what necessary?"

 

"Deliberately going over there and trying to start crap with the Ewings."

 

"It was fun.  I was hopin' Alex would take me up on stepping outside.  I'd love the chance to make that guy swallow some of his teeth.  Hey, what's the matter with you, anyway?  You've been in a pissy mood ever since I picked you up at your grandmother's house."

 

"I came by your office this afternoon."

 

"Did you?"  Shawn asks.  "Carol didn't tell me."

 

"I asked her not to.  Shawn, who was that woman I saw leaving your office?"

 

"Oh, that was Samantha Chambers.  She's president of Chambers Oil and a member of the oil Cartel.  She's a business associate."

 

"Is that all?"  Michelle asks.  

 

"Of course, that's all.  Michelle, what the hell is this, the third degree?  You see a business associate leaving my office and all of a sudden, you don't trust me?"

 

"I've seen how you've changed, Shawn.  The last few months, it's like you're drunk with power.  And the more power and success you get, the drunker you're becoming with it."

 

"You use to like that about me,"  Shawn says.  "My ambition, my power, use to turn you on.  So did sleeping in my bed between those satin sheets."

 

"Shawn, I........we have something special between us.  I don't wanna lose that."

 

"Then you're gonna have to stop acting like a jealous school girl and learn how to trust me.  Michelle, let's get something straight.  I am the CEO of a multi-billion dollar oil company, and not only that, I'm the youngest CEO in Westar's long history.  I plan to take Westar to new heights......heights my grandfather never even imagined.  I'd like you by my side when I reach those heights.  But there's one thing you're gonna have to understand, and get use to.  I'm gonna have a lot of business associates, and some of of those are gonna be women.  Some are gonna be very attractive women.  And sometimes I may need to...........do things..........in order to conduct business."

 

"You mean sleep with them?"  Michelle asks.

 

"If that's what it takes.  Something else you need to get straight, too.  Michelle, you and I are bed partners.  Nothing more.  We're not married, we're not even engaged.  So if I choose to sleep with other women, then I'll do it."

 

"And if I choose to sleep with other men?"  

 

"Well, I wouldn't like that.  I wouldn't like that one bit,"  Shawn says.  "Y'know, Michelle, I really think that you truly enjoy being with me.  I mean, being my.........girlfriend or whatever........comes with a lot of prestige, even power.  You don't wanna lose that.  And, if I ever did catch you fooling around with another man........then you'd be responsible for whatever happens to that poor guy, because I will crush anyone who steps into my territory."

 

"Your territory?"  Michelle asks.  "Is that what I am to you?  Your........territory?"

 

"I've already bought and paid for you, Michelle.  All those expensive gifts I've showered you with.  The prestige of being seeing all over town with me.  Getting your name and picture in the paper for being with me.  I know you love it, and you're not eager to give it up. And who knows.  One day I just might wanna make you Mrs. Shawn Smith, and when and if that happens, you'll be the reigning Queen of Dallas.  So just think about that.  Now, I'm starving since I didn't have any lunch today."  Shawn motions for the waitress.  "Let's order."

 

The waitress comes over to their table, and as Shawn talks to her, Michelle stares across the table at him, tuning out their words and all other noise around them, her complete focus on Shawn and the disgust she now feels for him, as well as the anger and determination she has to have her revenge on him for the way he has treated her.

Donna Love's home....later....

Shawn's expensive sports car pulls up in front of Donna Love's home in Dallas later that night as he is bringing Michelle home.  "Sure you don't wanna come back to the apartment?"  Shawn asks.  

 

"I'm sure,"  Michelle says, looking away from him.  

 

"Okay, then, I will pick you up for the Oil Baron's Ball tomorrow evening at 7."

 

"Fine," she says, getting out of the car.  She closes the car door behind her.  Shawn quickly speeds away as Michelle watches, an angry look on her face.  After Shawn leaves, instead of walking up to the house and going in, Michelle walks over to her car, parked in the driveway. She hesitates for just a moment, then gets into the car.  A moment later, Michelle drives away.  

Southfork...the next morning....New Year's Eve....

 Bobby walks onto the patio at Southfork early the next morning, on New Year's Eve.  It is a crisp, cold morning and a light frost covers the shrubbery and grass, giving the ranch a beautiful appearance.  Bobby takes in a deep breath of the frosty morning air, then exhales.  Ann comes onto the patio and walks over to him.  "Did I wake you when I got up?"  Bobby asks.

 

"I was already awake.  You're up and out awful early.  Seems to me you get up earlier every mornin', but I figured since it's New Year's Eve and we've got the Oil Baron's Ball tonight, you'd wanna sleep in for a while."

 

"No, honey, I've always been an early riser, and I think I'm turnin' into my Mama and Daddy."

 

"What do you mean?"  Ann asks.

 

"Both of them use to love gettin' up early and enjoyin' the ranch.  My Grandpa Southworth was the same way.  Mama use to say that her Daddy always said that the ranch was at its best early in the morning, when everything was still fresh and new.  I agree."

 

Ann puts her arms around him.  "Awful cold out here."

 

"Yeah, it's gonna be a real cold day.  I was thinkin' about taking a little walk, maybe down to the stables.  Care to join me?"

 

"I can't think of anything else I'd rather do right now,"  Ann says.  The two kiss, then smile at each other, and begin their walk.  

Clay Beaumont's apartment....later....

 Clay Beaumont walks over to the window of his bedroom in his Museum Tower apartment and looks out over the city skyline.  He smiles, then goes over to a small bar and pours himself a drink.  "You want one?"  He asks someone else in the room.  

 

"Sure,"  a female voice replies.  

 Clay pours two drinks then turns around to face his female companion.  "I think a celebration is in order," he says.

 

"Oh?  And what are we celebrating?"

 

"My return to Dallas to reclaim what was taken from me.  And the downfall of a certain arrogant young punk named Shawn Smith."  Clay walks over to the bed and hands the drink to a young woman sitting on his bed, a young woman who turns out to be none other than Michelle McKinnon, Bridget's twin sister and Shawn's own girlfriend.  "And, to your help in bringing about his downfall."

 

"I'll drink to that,"  Michelle says, standing to face him.  She and Clay toast.

 

"I'm glad you came over last night,"  Clay says.

 

"So am I.  I'm so tired of being with a boy.  It was nice being with a man last night for a change."

 

"So what happens now?  You go back to him?"

 

"I don't know.  I'm so confused right now, Clay.  Last night, when I came here, I wanted to get back at Shawn for the way he treated me.  And for cheating on me."

 

"Don't you still wanna get back at him?"

 

"Oh, yes,"  Michelle says.

 

"Then let's do it.  Shawn banished me from his kingdom when I couldn't get those shares from Jill for him.  I'm not gonna let that go.  Are you going to the Oil Baron's Ball with him tonight?"

 

"He's expecting me to.  But, just because I go to the ball with him, doesn't mean I have to leave with him."

 

Clay looks at her as the two draw closer.  "Y'know, Michelle, I've never gone for younger women before.  But you're different."

 

"Different......how?"  Michelle seductively asks.

 

"You may be very young, but you seem way older.  And much more mature than most women your age, and I like that."

 

"There's a lot I like about you, too, Clay Beaumont.  You're extremely handsome, and more than twice the man Shawn Smith is. Twice the lover, too."

 

Clay smiles, then leans over and begins kissing her passionately.

Hyatt Regency Hotel in Dallas....evening....

 Late that evening, the annual Oil Baron's Ball is well under way at the Hyatt Regency Hotel's ballroom in Dallas.

 

Bobby and Ann are walking around, mingling with some of the other Ball attendees, greeting old friends.  

 

"Hey, Bobby,"  a man says, walking up to them.

 

"Well, hello, Joe,"  Bobby says, shaking the man's hand.

 

"Bobby, how the hell are ya?  I sure was sorry to hear you were in the hospital."

 

"Well, thanks a lot, Joe, and I really appreciate the card you and Maggie sent."

 

"No problem at all, glad to see you're fully recovered."

 

"I appreciate it.  See ya later, Joe, and my love to Maggie and the family,"  Bobby says.

 

"Will do,"  Joe says, walking away.

 

"Well, Bobby Ewing,"  Marilee Stone says, she and Brad walking up to Bobby and Ann. 

 

"Marilee.  Hello.  Ann told me that you were back in town."

 

"Yes.  I heard about your heart attack.  It's great to see you back on your feet and doing so well."

 

"Thank you, Marilee."

 

"You take care now."

 

"You, too,"  Bobby says as Marilee and Brad walk away.  

 

"I'm not sure why, but that woman really rubs me the wrong way,"  Ann says.

 

Bobby smiles.  "Well ,you're not alone, honey.  Marilee has always had that effect on a lot of people."

 

Marilee and Brad walk over to the bar.  "Well, I could've done without that encounter,"  Brad says.  

 

"Bobby Ewing is an old friend,"  says Marilee.  

 

"I never realized you and Bobby Ewing were that close."

 

"I never said we were close, darling.  He's just an old friend.  I go way back with the whole Ewing family."

 

"Well, I know you slept with J.R.  Did you go to bed with Bobby, too?"  Brad asks.

 

Marilee gives her son an angry look.

 

"Nevermind, Mom,"  Brad says.  "I don't think I wanna know.  If you'll excuse me, I'm gonna go and say hello to Pamela and Justin."

 

As Brad turns around and starts to walk away from his mother, he accidentally bumps into Krystina.  

 

"Oh, I'm sorry,"  he say.  "Hello, Krystina."

 

"Brad, how are you?"

 

"Just fine, and yourself?"

 

"Never better,"  Krystina says, as John Ross walks over carrying two drinks.

 

"Krystina, you know you don't have to waste your breath talkin' to the likes of him,"  John Ross says.

 

"John Ross, it's fine."

 

"No, darlin', it's not fine,"  John Ross says.  "Honey, why don't you take our drinks and go find us a nice spot.  I'll be along."

 

 

"John Ross, don't start anything,"  Krystina says.  

 

"I'm not gonna start anything.  Just go along to our table and I'll be right there I promise."

 

Krystina looks at him, and at Brad.  She sighs, then walks away.

 

"I have nothing to say to you,"  Brad says.

 

"Well, I'll got plenty to say to you, Stone.  Or, is it Barnes now?  You stay the hell away from my wife.  Don't speak to her, don't look at her, don't even think about her.  Just pretend she doesn't exist, because as far as you're concerned, she doesn't."

 

Brad smiles.  "My, my.  Those insecurities are REALLY showing tonight.  What's the matter, John Ross  Afraid a real man might steal that beautiful wife of yours?  Not satisfying Krystina in bed or somethin'?"

 

"You just stay the hell away from my wife and the rest of my family, Barnes."

 

"John Ross, don't you EVER try and tell me who I can and can't speak to. Krystina's a grown woman, and contrary to what you think, she's not one of your Ewing possessions."  Brad starts to walk away, but John Ross grabs him by the arm.

 

"I'm not done talkin' to you, boy,"  John Ross says.  

 

"Oh, yes, you are,"  Brad says, forcibly removing John Ross's hand.  Witnessing the altercation from nearby, Justin and Pamela hurry over to stop it.

 

"Hey, what's goin' on over here?"  Justin asks.

 

"Justin, you'd best tell your brother not to ever lay a hand on me, unless he wants to lose that hand,"  Brad says, then turns and walks away.  John Ross starts after him.

 

"John Ross,"  Justin says, grabbing his brother by the arm.  "Not here."

 

"That jackass ever comes near Krystina again, I'll break his neck,"  John Ross says.  

 

Pamela looks at John Ross, shakes her head in disgust, then walks away, following Brad over to the bar, where he is ordering a drink.  "Brad, what was that all about?"  She asks.

 

"Just your usual, garden variety encounter between a Barnes and  Ewing, that's all,"  Brad replies as the bartender hands him his drink.  

 

"Look, let's try and get through this night without any drama or punches being thrown, alright?"

 

"Sis, considering the people who are here tonight.......I think you're asking the impossible."

 

 

Across the room, Alex and Bridget had witnessed John Ross's mini-altercation with Brad from a distance.  "I wonder what that was all about,"  Bridget says.

 

"I dunno,"  replies Alex.  "It's a shame Justin and Pamela had to stop it.  Looks like it was just about to get good.  I sure would love to see John Ross knock Brad Barnes on his ass.  Just like I'd love to knock Shawn Smith on his."

 

Bridget smiles.  "Well, speak of the devil.  There he is over there with my sister."

 

Alex looks across the room and sees Shawn and Michelle.  "Poor Michelle doesn't look very happy to be here with him, does she?"

 

"No, she doesn't,"  says Bridget.  "I really feel sorry for her, Alex.  I've seen the way he treats her.  Why she puts up with it AND him I'll never know."

 

"Don't you?"  Alex asks.  

 

Bridget looks at him.  "Yeah, I guess I do.  His money.  My sister has a small trust fund from my parents, but that still isn't enough for her."

 

"I sure am glad you're not like that,"  Alex says, putting his arms around her.  "Or are you?  You sure you aren't with me for that Ewing money?"

 

"Alex, I would still be with you even if you were as poor as a church mouse."

 

Alex smiles and kisses her just as Shawn and Michelle walk over to them.  "Well, good evening Bridget,"  Shawn says.  "Alex."

 

"Hello, Shawn.  Michelle,"  Bridget says.

 

"Well, you two having a good time tonight?"  Shawn asks.

 

"We were until now,"  replies Alex. 

 

Shawn looks at him and laughs.  "Sure is strange how far we've come since this time last year, itn't it?  Now I'm CEO of the largest and most powerful independent oil company in the state of Texas, and you're still a flunky for your family's company.  Must be a lousy feeling, knowing you probably won't get the chance to run Ewing Oil for a long, long time.  Maybe not even til you're an old man.  Kinda like poor Prince Charles waitin' for his Mama to die so he can be king."

 

Alex starts to move toward Shawn, but Bridget places her hand on his chest to stop him.  "Alex, no.  Let's not start any trouble here."

 

"One of these days, Shawn, I'm gonna knock your teeth down your damned throat,"  Alex says.  

 

"Any time you think you're man enough to try, I'll be waitin'."

 

"Alex, come on,"  Bridget says.  "I wanna dance."  She grabs Alex by the arm and drags him away.

 

Shawn laughs.  "Well, now that was fun,"  he says.

 

"Why are you ALWAYS trying to start something with him?  He's my sister's boyfriend, and you and Alex use to be best friends."

 

"Yeah, we USED to be.  But he ripped that friendship up and threw it back in my face."

 

 

Meanwhile, Courtney is walking around with her brother, Gavin.  "I can't believe I actually let you talk me into comin' to this thing,"  Gavin says. "I feel so out of place, and I hate this monkey suit."

 

"Come on, you look very handsome in your tux,"  Courtney says.  "And who knows.  You might even meet some gorgeous single girl here."

 

"Oh, sure.  Everybody here is connected to the oil business in some way.  Can't you just see one of these daughters of some billionaire oil baron goin' out with a ranch hand?"

 

"You're not just a ranch hand, Gavin,"  Courtney says.  

 

"Oh, yeah, right.  I just spend half my days mucking out horse stalls and the other half loading bales of hay for nothing,"  Gavin says.  As Gavin is talking to Courtney and not paying attention, Shawn, not looking where he is going, bumps into him.

 

"Oh, hey, I'm sorry,"  Shawn says.  

 

"No, that's fine, no harm done,"  Gavin says, taken aback by coming face to face with his half-brother.  

 

"Courtney, hi,"  Shawn says looking at her with a smile.  

 

"Hello, Shawn."

 

"How are you?  And how's Jacob?"

 

"I'm good.  And Jacob's fine, too.  Umm, Shawn, you've never met my brother, Gavin, have you?"  Courtney asks.

 

"No, I don't believe I have,"  Shawn says.  "How's it goin', man?"

"No, of course not,"  Sue Ellen says.  "Umm, Cass, you remember my son, John Ross?"

 

"Yes, of course,"  Cass replies.  "John Ross, how are you?"

 

"Just fine, counselor."

 

"And, John Ross's wife, Krystina,"  says Sue Ellen.

 

"Mrs. Ewing, very nice to see you again,"  Cass says.

 

"Thank you, and please, call me Krystina."

 

"Alright, Krystina.  Oh, and you both remember Lila, my........my former wife.  She came with me to Southfork on Christmas Eve."

 

"Lila,"  John Ross says, shaking her hand.  "Good to see you again."

 

"You too,"  Lila says with a smile.  "Sue Ellen, this son of yours is devilishly handsome."

 

"Well, thank you,"  Sue Ellen says.  "He takes after his father."

 

"Now, let me see if I get this straight,"  says Lila.  "Sue Ellen, your first husband, was John Ross's father?"

 

"That's right."

 

"And he was what relation to you, Catlin?"  

 

"J.R. was my second cousin,"  Catlin replies.  "Although I never had the privilege of meeting him."

 

"My, it truly must be nice to have so much family around."

 

"Lila, are you originally from Bay City, where Cass is from?"  Krystina asks.

 

"No, I was born in New Orleans."

 

"You still have family there?"  John Ross asks.

 

The smile disappears from Lila's face.  "No, I have no family at all except for Cass and our son, Cory.  At least not that I know of."

 

"Lila has actually been trying to find some information on her family,"  Cass says.  "I told her that I would help, so if any of you can recommend a good private investigator, we'd be grateful."

 

"As a matter of fact, I can recommend the best private investigator in the business,"  says Sue Ellen.  "His name is Bum Jones, and he's done a lot of work for the Ewings over the years.  I'd be happy to give you his number, or even introduce you."

 

"Sue Ellen, thank you, that would be wonderful,"  Lila says.  

 

"Consider it done.  I'll give Bum a call tomorrow, and perhaps you can meet with him the day after New Years."

 

"That would be great.  I'm really anxious to get goin' on this."

 

 

 

Meanwhile, as Shawn is talking to some business associates, Michelle is standing alone near the bar, feeling ignored and angry when Clay walks up to her.  

 

"Hello, there,"  Clay says.  

 

"Hi."

 

"I can't stop thinkin' about last night.......and this morning."

 

Michelle smiles.  "Neither can I."

"I look forward to a repeat performance,"  Clay says.  "Later tonight?"

 

"Maybe,"  Michelle says, still looking across the room at Shawn.

 

Clay also looks across the room and sees Shawn.  "Just look at him.  Strutting around like he owns this town.  That arrogant little jackass is gonna come crashing down real soon and I hope I can play a part in his downfall."

 

"So do I.  He's coming over here,"  Michelle says as Shawn makes his way through the crowd and over to her and Clay.  

 

"Clay, I'm surprised to see you here,"  Shawn says.  "Since you're no longer involved in the oil business after you quit the job I gave you at Westar."

 

"The job you gave me?  Oh, you mean that sorry little errand boy job you banished me to in California?"

 

"Good evening, ladies and gentlemen, Happy New Year, and welcome to the 2019 Oil Baron's Ball,"  Jordan says, his words, followed by wild applause and cheering from the audience.  Jordan smiles and waits for a moment until after the applause dies down.  "Thank you," he says.  "First of all I'd like to say that it is an honor and a privilege to be here serving as your Master Of Ceremonies for the second year in a row.  The Oil Baron's Ball is an annual event held here in Dallas every year since 1965 and is an evening not only for those in and on the fringe of the oil industry to come together for a night of good fun good dancing, good food, and also a night to recognize achievements of those who have made contributions to the oil and gas industry over the past year.  2019, has been quite a year for the industry, which we'll get to later.  But first, a tradition that has been a part of the Oil Baron's Ball since 1982, the awarding of the Jock Ewing Memorial Scholarship, which is presented each year to 4 worthy students attending Southern Methodist University here in Dallas.  To present tonight's Jock Ewing Memorial Scholarship, is a member of the Ewing family, Jock Ewing's great-grandson, Alex, who, fittingly, happens to be a student at SMU.  Alex."

 

Alex stands from his seat at the Ewing table, and makes his way onto the stage to thunderous applause from the audience, and goes to the podium,  where he and Jordan shake hands.  Jordan steps aside and Alex begins to 

speak:  "Thanks, everyone,"  the young man nervously begins.  "Umm, you'll have to kinda bear with me, because, I'm not use to speaking in front of a crowd.  But, I consider it an honor to be up here tonight to present this scholarship to 4 or my fellow SMU students, a scholarship that was set up many years ago in memory of my great-grandfather, a man I never had the chance to meet, but who I've heard a lot about. Alex reaches into his pocket and pulls out an envelope, ripping it open.  And now, the names of the 4 recipients of the 2019 Jock Ewing Memorial Scholarship Award, are....... Scott Dixon, Bethany O'Connor, James Carmichael, and Jessica Bentley.  Congratulations to these 4 students on behalf of myself, and the entire Ewing family.  And thank you."  Applause once again erupts as Alex leaves the stage and  makes his way back to the Ewing table, where John Ross proudly greets his son with a hug before Alex takes his seat.

 

Jordan again steps to the podium.  "Thank you, Alex, and a big congratulations to Scott, Bethany, James, and Jessica.  This past year, the oil industry lost one of its own.  One of its giants, a man who has been a part of the Dallas oil industry for decades, Mr. Cliff Barnes, who passed away very suddenly last spring at the age of 74.  Cliff Barnes made many contributions to the oil and gas industries in Texas over the course of his long and distinguished career, beginning as head of the Office Of Land Management in 1979.  From there, Mr. Barnes moved on to become president of Wentworth Tool & Dye, which developed the ground breaking drill bit, the Tundra Torque, which became instrumental in the advancement of cold weather drilling, especially in areas such as Canada and Alaska.  Following his time at Wentworth, Mr. Barnes went on to become president of his own oil company, Barnes-Wentworth, which was responsible for one of he largest strikes ever recorded in the Gulf back in 1984....."

 

 

At the Ewing table, John Ross rolls his eyes and sighs deeply.  "Good Lord, are we gonna have to sit here all night and listen to Cliff Barnes's whole life story?"  He quietly asks.

 

 

 

 

"In 1988, Cliff Barnes sold Barnes-Wentworth Oil and became a partner in Ewing Oil,"  Jordan continues.  "A company he became president of in 1991 and ran until 1996.  In the late 90s, he acquired Wentworth Industries, which he renamed Barnes Global.  Here tonight, the Dallas Oil Industry would like to present a special posthumous Lifetime Achievement Award to Mr. Clifford Barnes.  And here to accept that award on behalf of Mr. Barnes are his widow, Afton Cooper Barnes, and his children, Pamela Barnes Ewing, and Bradley Barnes."

 

Once again, the room erupts into thunderous applause as Afton, Pamela, and Brad stand and make their way onto the stage to the podium, where a young woman hands Afton Cliff's posthumous award.  

 

"Thank you,"  Afton says.  "On behalf of my late husband, I proudly accept this award and I thank you all for this honor.  Cliff would be truly proud, and pleased to see that he is remembered by his friends in the industry that he loved so much."

 

  stage for a moment, listening to the applause from the audience, his head swelling with pride over his tremendous achievement.  The applause seems to go on forever, the only ones in the audience not applauding being Bobby, John Ross, Alex, Krystina, Pamela, and Clay.  Finally, the applause subsides, and Shawn begins his acceptance speech.  

 

"Wow,"  he begins. "I sure wasn't expecting this.  But, with great humility, I accept this honor and I thank each and every one of you who voted for me.  Tonight, history has been made, as I am not only the youngest CEO in the long history of Westar, but also, the youngest recipient of the Oil Baron of the Year award in the history of the Oil Baron's Ball.  This is a great honor, and I will do my best this next year to not let you down.  I have many great plans for Westar in the coming months and years.  I plan to take Westar to new heights......heights my grandfather, Jeremy Wendell, could scarcely have imagined when he was running this company many years ago.  I will work hard to earn the respect of my colleagues in the industry, and show myself worthy of the confidence bestowed on me here tonight.  I only wish my late father, Mark Smith, were here tonight to see me get this award and this honor.  Again, I thank you all."   

 

The crowd again erupts into applause as Shawn leaves the stage.  His head swelled with pride, Shawn can't resist going by the Ewing table on his way back to his own table.  

 

"Well, isn't anyone going to congratulate me on my big win?"  Shawn asks, standing next to John Ross's chair.

 

"Congratulations, Shawn,"  Ann says.  "I know that your father would be very proud."

 

"Thank you, Aunt Ann.  And how about you, John Ross?  After all, you taught me a lot of what I know."

 

"Enjoy your little victory while you can, Smith,"  John Ross says.  "Because your success is not gonna last."

 

"Oh, my success is gonna last a LONG time, John Ross,"  says Shawn.  "As I said, I learned a lot of what I know from you when I was workin' for you as a spy.......including how to destroy my enemies, and now that I have all this power at Westar behind me, that's exactly what I'm gonna do to Ewing Oil.......something my grandfather and Carter McKay could never do."

 

Alex quickly springs to his feet to face his former friend.  "Y'know, I've been waiting for an excuse to lay you flat on your ass, and if you keep talking, I'm gonna do just that."

 

"Alex, please, sit down,"  Bridget begs, tugging at his coat tail.  

 

"Alex, not here,"  Bobby says.

 

"He's had it coming a long time,"  Alex says.

 

"I told you, if you think you're man enough to try it, let's go."

 

"Oh, I'm man enough,"  Alex says, then, without warning, he draws back his fist and punches Shawn hard across the face, sending Shawn crashing across the next table as screams and gasps can be heard from stunned bystanders.  

 

Shawn quickly gets to his feet, looking angrily at Alex.  "Oh, you're gonna pay for that," he says.  As he starts toward Alex, John Ross punches Alex, this time sending him falling to the floor.  

 

"Oh, boy, here we go,"  Brad says, nearby at the Barnes table.  Brad gets up from his seat, and rushes over to help Shawn.  Brad grabs John Ross and punches  him as Shawn tackles Alex to the floor.  

 

Justin gets up from his seat and rushes over to join the fight.  "JUSTIN, NO!"  Pamela yells at her husband in an attempt to stop him, but to no avail.  To her astonishment, Justin punches Brad in defense of his brother.  Several 

men from the Westar table rush over and join in, as do Christopher and Lucas, and even Catlin and C.J. join to help their cousins, while other ball guests scramble to get out of the way of the battle.  To Ann's horror, Bobby also gets in on the action, punching Brad, knocking him across the Ewing table.  

Watching the melee with a smile from across the room is Clay.  To get out of the way of flying bodies and debris, Michelle makes her way over to Clay's table.

 

"Can you believe this?"  She asks.

 

"Oh, yes, I can believe it,"  Clay replies.  "Think I'm gonna go get in on the fun."

 

"Clay, you can't be serious!"

 

"Oh, I am, sweetheart.  I haven't been in a good fight in a long time.  Besides, I may never get a chance like this again,"  Clay says, quickly getting up from his seat. He battles his way through the chaotic crowd to where the fight is taking place in the center of the ballroom, grabs Shawn, and punches him hard across the face, sending him falling on top of a man and a woman two innocent bystanders who happened to get in the way. Clay is then punched in the face by Brad, who is in turn punched by John Ross.  As John Ross and Brad fight each other, Alex grabs Shawn, and the two former friends wrestle around on the floor, occasionally punching each other.  

 

"MY pathetic life?"  Alex asks.  "You call ME a bastard?"

 

"That's right.  John Ross Ewing's bastard son!"

 

"You'd better look in the mirror, pal!  Because I'm not the only bastard around here born on the wrong side of the sheets!  Why don't you ask your Mama here who your real daddy is?"  Alex asks, much to the horror of Sharon, Courtney, and Gavin.  

 

"You shut up,"  Sharon says.  

 

"You won't tell him?  Then I will.  Shawn, Mark Smith wasn't your father.  Your real father........is Andrew Murray, Mark Smith's best friend.  Your Mom cheated on Mark with his best friend."

 

"You lying son of a bitch,"  Shawn says.

 

"Why don't you ask your mother?  Or, you can ask your sister.......Courtney."

 

"Alex,"  says a stunned Courtney.

 

"Alex, stop it, right now!"  Christopher says.

 

"It's true,"  Alex says.  "Go ahead and ask them."

 

Shawn turns to his mother.  "Is it true?  Is what he's saying true?  Dad wasn't my father?"

 

Sharon looks at her son and  begins to cry.  "Shawn, I........I'm so sorry," she says in tears.

 

"So I'm not the only bastard in this room,"  Alex says.  

 

Shawn is too stunned to say anything.

 

"Shawn,"  Sharon says, reaching out to her son.  

 

 

"No,"  Shawn says, pulling away from his mother.  "No, don't you touch me."

 

"Baby, please, let me explain."

 

"You go to hell,"  Shawn says.  He turns and pushes his way through the crowd to leave the ballroom.  Sharon goes after him.  

 

Phyllis turns to Courtney.  "Is this true, Courtney?  Please tell me this isn't true."  She asks.  "Is Shawn Smith your father's son?"

 

 

Courtney looks at her mother.  "Mom, I'm so sorry,"  Courtney says, tears in her eyes.  

 

 

  "We both are, Mom,"  says Gavin.  

 

"What?"  Phyllis asks.  "You knew about this, too?  You BOTH knew about this and you didn't tell me?"

 

"Mom,"  Courtney says.

 

"No, I......I can't right now,"  Phyllis says, then she, too, turns and rushes out.

 

"Mom,"  Courtney says, starting after her, but Gavin grabs her by the arm.

 

"Court, don't,"  he says.  "Let her go."

 

The anger rising up inside of her, Courtney walks over to John Ross and Alex.  Christopher follows her.  "How could you?"  She asks Alex.  "How could you DO this?"

 

"Courtney, I'm sorry you got caught in the crossfire of that,"  Alex says.

 

Unable to contain her anger, Courtney quickly slaps Alex hard across the face as audible gasps from onlookers is heard.  After the slap, Courtney turns and storms away.  

 

Christopher angrily looks at his cousin. "John Ross, you and your son just opened up a Pandora's Box.  You'd just better be sure you're ready to deal with the consequences,"  he says, then walks away, leaving John Ross worried