EPISODE 227 - Inheritance

  At Southfork, the Ewing Rodeo is still going on, and the youth competition is under way.  One small boy is waiting in the chute for his turn to compete in the roping competition.  As soon as the baby goat is released and  

  the chute is opened, the little boy takes off on his horse in pursuit of the animal.  He successfully ropes the goat, 

dismounts his horse, losing his hat in the process, then wrestles the baby goat to the ground and ties its legs together.  

 

"AND LITTLE AIDAN DUFFY HAS A TIME OF 9.3 SECONDS," says announcer Bob Tallman over the loudspeaker.  "WAY TO GO AIDAN!"

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Meanwhile, John Ross and Krystina are walking around, smiling at various guests as they make their way through the crowd.  "You and Samantha Chambers sure looked cozy earlier when you were chatting."

 

John Ross smiles.  "Not jealous are ya, darlin'?"

 

"Do I have reason to be?"  Krystina asks.

 

John Ross reaches over and takes her by the hand.  "Not at all," he says.  "You know I only have eyes for you."

 

"There's Cass and Lila,"  Krystina says.  "I think it would be nice if we went over and said hello.  And welcomed them to the rodeo."

 

"Think I'll pass."

 

"John Ross, come on.  Like it or not, Lila Winthrop IS your half-sister, and she appears to be here to stay.  Come on.  At least ACT friendly."  Krystina takes him by the hand and leads him over to where Cass and Lila are standing.  "Hello, Cass, Lila,"  she says.

 

"Krystina, hello,"  says Cass.  "John Ross."

 

"Counselor,"  John Ross says.

 

"Hello, John Ross, how are you?"  Lila asks, in an attempt to be friendly.

 

 "Oh, I'm just fine."

 

"We're very glad that you guys could make it,"  says Krystina.  "Are you enjoying yourselves?"

 

"Yes, we are, thank you very much,"  Cass replies with a smile.  "This is a wonderful rodeo."

 

"And such a lovely ranch,"  Lila says.  "It's amazing to realize that generations of my family have lived right here on this ranch, and that my grandmother played on this very ground as a little girl."

 

John Ross rolls his eyes as he lets out a sort of cough, his way of indicating his disgust at Lila's interest in the family.

 

"Is somethin' the matter, John Ross?"  Lila asks.  "I say somethin' not quite to your likin'?"

 

 

"Almost every word that comes out of your mouth is not to my likin', especially when you're talkin' about my family," John Ross says.

 

"John Ross, don't,"  Krystina.

 

"Your family?"  Lila asks.  "YOUR family??  This happens to be MY family, too."

 

"Only through an unfortunate accident of birth.  A mistake my father made in a moment of weakness."

 

"Well, from what I've heard, our father had quite a few moments of weaknesses,"  says Lila.  "Including one with your own mother's sister, or so I've heard."

 

"Well, at least she wasn't a common street whore like your mama was,"  John Ross says as people around them begin to take notice of the argument and stare.

 

"You bastard, you take that back,"  says Lila.

 

"Like hell, I will.  It's the truth.  How many years did it take you to find out who your real father was, because your Mama had SO many Johns."

 

"And I heard there was also some question about YOUR paternity, as well.  Let me see if I remember this right..... .......oh, yes, Cliff Barnes was the other possible candidate for father of the year.  And, I think there was even a paternity suit, wasn't there?"

 

"Lila,"  Cass says, grabbing her arm.

 

"Lady, you shut the hell up,"  John Ross angrily says. 

 

"You can dish it out, but you can't take a little unpleasant truth yourself, can you?"  Lila asks.

 

Meanwhile, Jasmine pushes her way through the crowd to witness her mother's confrontation with John Ross,

while Cory and Daniel, walking back from the stables, and they too, stop to witness the spectacle.

 

"Best thing you can do for everybody concerned is to just go back to Bay City or wherever the hell you came from, because there's NOTHIN' for you here,"  John Ross says.

 

"I have every right to be here!"

 

"You're not a part of this family, and you never will be,"  John Ross says as Justin and Pamela come over to them.

 

"John Ross, that's enough,"  Justin asks.

 

"Stay out of this, little brother,"  John Ross says.  "This is between her and me."

 

"Thank you, Justin,"  says Lila.  "But I can handle John Ross myself.  You said I'm not a part of this family?  Well, you're about to find out, John Ross, just how much of a Ewing I am, and that I can play just as dirty as you."

 

"Get the hell off this ranch.  You and your family."

 

"She's got just as much right to be here as anybody, including YOU!"  Pamela says.

 

"Pamela, you stay the hell out of this!"  John Ross says.  "This is none of your business."

 

"John Ross, I'm tryin' to control my temper right now, but if you ever speak that way to my wife again, I swear, I'll take you apart,"  Justin says, angrily looking at his brother.

 

"Lila, come on, let's go,"  Cass says, again taking her by the arm.

 

"What the hell is goin' on over here?"  Bobby asks, he, Ann, Sue Ellen, and Catlin pushing their way through the crowd.  

 

"Bobby, Ann, I'm sorry about all this,"  Cass says.  "We were just leaving."

 

"Cass, Lila, you don't have to go,"  Bobby says.

 

"The hell they don't,"  says John Ross.  

 

"No, Bobby, it's fine,"  Lila says.  "I'm leavin' for now........but this isn't over, John Ross.  Not by a LONG shot.  Jasmine, Cory........let's go."

 

Cory and Daniel exchange sad looks, then Cory walks away from Daniel to leave with his parents and sister.  

 

Bobby turns to his nephew.  "John Ross, I don't give a damn what your problems are with Lila.  That's between the two of you.  But how dare you order anyone off this ranch."

 

"I own half this ranch, Uncle Bobby.  Or have you forgotten that?"

 

"Then maybe it's time I did somethin' about that,"  says Bobby.  "I'll BUY your half of Southfork.  Just name your price."

 

"Not a chance in hell,"  John Ross says.  "There's nothin' on this Earth that could get me off this ranch.  Face it, Uncle Bobby........you're stuck with me for life.  Unless of course, you wanna sell your half to ME."

 

Bobby gives his nephew an angry look.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Outside Jeremy Wendell's apartment building....

 Meanwhile, Shawn is sitting in his car across the street from the building that houses Jeremy's penthouse, 

 watching to see if an ambulance arrives.  After he has waited for more than an hour and a half, Shawn sees a plain white van pull into the parking garage of the building.  The van seems out of place going into the parking garage of this building.  Finally, after waiting a couple of more minutes, Shawn takes his cell phone from his pocket and dials the number of Jeremy's penthouse suite.  The phone rings several times, and finally, a man's voice answers that Shawn recognizes as William's, Jeremy's longtime loyal butler.  

 

"Hello,"  William says on the other end of the line.  

 

"Hello, William,"  Shawn says.  "Is my grandfather at home?  I've been trying to reach him on his cell phone,. but there's no answer."

 

"Mr. Smith, your grandfather was expecting you.  I had to go out on an errand for him."

 

"Yes, I know,"  Shawn says, nervously, breaking out into a cold sweat as William fails to mention Jeremy's heart attack.  What if the old man told William what Shawn had done?  He wonders to himself.  "But, something came up, and I was going to be late.  Can I speak to my grandfather?"

 

William is silent on the other end of the line for several seconds.

 

"William?"

 

"I'm very sorry to be the one to tell you this, sir,"  William says.  "Your grandfather......Mr. Wendell.......he died earlier this evening."

 

"What?"  Shawn says, breathing a sigh of relief.

 

"I came home, and I found him on the floor in his office.  His heart pills were on the floor beside him.  He must have suffered an attack, and tried to take one of the pills, but, he wasn't able to.  I'm so sorry, sir.  The medical examiner is here now."

 

"Thank you, William,"  Shawn says.  He puts his phone down, ending the call.  He again looks across the street 

at the building, the reality of his new situation finally hitting him.  "So the old bastard's really gone,"  he says.  "And it's all mine.  All that money.........and Westar.  ALL mine."  Shawn laughs happily, then starts his car and drives off.  

 

 

 

 

At Southfork the next morning, Bobby, Ann, Christopher, Courtney, Jacob, Lucas, Heather, and Michael are having breakfast on the patio for the first time this year, as the spring weather has warmed enough.  John Ross and Krystina come out of the house.  "Morning,"  Krystina says.

 

"Mornin',"  says Ann.  

 

John Ross and Krystina take their seats at the table.  "Hey, Uncle Bobby, I'm sorry about the things I said at the rodeo yesterday.  I was just all worked up over that little confrontation with Lila Winthrop."

 

"Let's just forget it, John Ross," Bobby says.  "One thing that does concern me, however, is this continued animosity between you and Lila.  Can we expect that kind of explosion every time the two of you see each other, or Lila and her family come out here to visit?"

 

"Well, there IS one way we can avoid that,"  says John Ross.  "Don't invite her out here unless I'm out of town."

Christopher hands the paper to his father.  Bobby takes the paper and looks at it.  "Well, I can hardly believe it."

 

"Let me see that,"  John Ross says.  Bobby hands him the paper, and he looks at it.  After reading a few lines, John Ross slightly smiles.  "Well, I'll be damned.  Well, I can tell you, I won't be sheddin' any tears over this one.  In fact, Krystina, I feel like the two if us goin' out to dinner tonight to celebrate."

 

"Celebrate?"  Heather asks.  

 

"John Ross, don't tell me you're cold enough to actually celebrate a man's death,"  says Lucas.

 

"A man, no,"  John Ross says.  "But Wendell was not a man.  He was the devil himself, and he caused this family more trouble over the years than just about anybody else, except for maybe Cliff Barnes.  And now they're both gone, and the Ewings are still standin'."

 

"You seem to forget one thing," Lucas says.  "With Wendell gone, his grandson Shawn is likely to inherit his estate......all that money, and whatever stock Wendell had in Westar.  That old man's death has likely just made his grandson very rich, and very powerful."

 

John Ross looks at the newspaper again, a worried look on his face as he thinks about Lucas's words.  It could very well be that Shawn could become as big a thorn in his side as Wendell ever was in J.R.'s.

A few minutes later....

John Ross walks into the empty den at Southfork and takes out his cell phone.  He dials a number and waits for an answer.  After four rings, someone picks up on the other end of the line.  "Hey, it's John Ross.  You hear about Jeremy Wendell's death?  Uh-huh.  We need to have a meeting.  Early tomorrow mornin' before work, at Jordan's apartment again.  I'll call Jordan, you call Harwood and let him know to be there.  Wendell's unexpected demise changes things a little.  We need to speed up our little plan to destroy Shawn Smith and get his ass out of power at Westar. And we need to do this BEFORE Wendell's will is read and that kid inherits all that money and power.  I'll see you in the mornin', let's say.........8 o'clock."  John Ross ends the call and puts his phone down.  He sighs in frustration.

Justin and Pamela's apartment....

 Meanwhile, Justin and Pamela are also reading the newspaper article about Jeremy Wendell's death over breakfast.  "Wow,"  Justin says.  "I can't even imagine the discussion that must be goin' on over at Southfork right now if Uncle Bobby and John Ross have heard about this."

 

"Well, I, for one, am totally in shock,"  says Pamela.  "I thought old Wendell would never die.  I always thought he was too mean."

 

Justin chuckles at the comment.  "Well, I guess this means that that little punk Shawn is inherit Wendell's money and all his stock in Westar, which is still a sizable amount.  Enough to give Shawn total control of the company."

 

"Maybe now would be a great time to get rid of that stock Jill dumped on you,"  Pamela says.  "Because with Shawn Smith having majority control of Westar, things could get ugly."

"Pamela, have you seen this?"  Afton asks.  "Jeremy Wendell died yesterday."

 

"Yes, Mom, we've seen in.  In fact, we were just talking about it."

 

"I just can't believe it.  It's strange.  They're all gone now."

 

"What do you mean?"  Pamela asks.

 

"J.R., your father, and now Jeremy Wendell.  Three mortal enemies who spent years and a ton of energy trying to destroy one another."

 

"Well, Daddy, J.R., and Wendell may all be gone now, but, unfortunately, the feuds they waged with each other are still going on."

 

"What do you think will happen now?"  Afton asks.  "Do you think that Wendell's grandson will inherit his empire?"

 

"That's what worries me,"  replies Pamela.  "Shawn has already shown himself to be every bit as twisted and ruthless as Wendell was, and he's still very young.  If he inherits all that money and power.......and Westar....... then who knows how dangerous he could become."

 

Afton places a reassuring hand on her daughter's shoulder.

Cass Winthrop's apartment....early afternoon....

 Jasmine is watching TV and Cory is typing on his laptop when Cass walks into the apartment.  "Your mother back yet?"  He asks.

 

"No.  We haven't seen her since she stormed out of here this morning,"  replies Jasmine.  

 

"Yeah, she was still really upset over what happened at the Ewing Rodeo yesterday,"  Cory says.

 

"I can't blame her,"  says Jasmine.  "That John Ross guy was a real jerk to Mom.  I wanted to slap that smug look off his face."

 

"Mom's half brother,"  Cory says.  "Well, at least Justin defended her.  I WAS kinda hoping he'd punch John Ross, though."

 

Cass sighs.  "Your mother's been gone for a long time.  I wonder where she could be."

 

"Maybe she went back to Southfork to finish her confrontation with John Ross,"  Cory says with a smile.  

 

"Don't even joke about that,"  says Cass.  "You know your mother as well as I do, and in the mood she's been in since yesterday, there's no telling what she might do."

 

Cory and Jasmine look at each other and smile.  

 

Lila storms into the apartment, obviously still angry over her confrontation with John Ross the day before, as she comes in mumbling under her breath.  She stops short as she enters the living room and sees her former husband, daughter, and son staring at her.  "What are you all lookin' at?"

 

"Where were you?"  Cass asks.  "We've been worried about you?"

 

"I was out.  I had some thinkin' to do."

 

"About what happened at the rodeo yesterday?"  Jasmine asks.

 

"That's right."

 

"You're still burning mad about that, huh, Mom?"

 

"That's right, I AM.  I'm never gonna forget the way that John Ross treated me yesterday.  Like I was some outsider who didn't belong there."

 

"To him, that's exactly what you are,"  says Cass.

 

"Damn it, Cass, I am a PART of that family!"  Lila says.  "And I have a right to be there.  And I'm gonna show John Ross just how MUCH of a right I have."  

 

"Cory, Jasmine, why don't you two go out and see a movie?"  Cass asks.  "I hear there's a very good one playing this afternoon at the theater down the street."

 

"And what's the movie?"  Jasmine asks.

 

"Cat On A Hot Tin Roof,"  Cass replies, opening his wallet.  "Here's some money."  He hands Jasmine two twenty dollar bills.

 

"Think I'll pass,"  says Cory.

 

"Then go get a hamburger,"  Cass says.

 

"Come on, brat,"  says Jasmine.  "It's obvious these two wanna talk alone.  We'll go grab a bite to eat and then go see that movie,"

 

"Cat On A Hot Tin Roof?  Are you kidding me?  That movie came out in like the 1920s."

 

"It was 1958,"  Cass says.  "And trust me......you'll love it."

 

"And besides, I'm crazy about Paul Newman and Elizabeth Taylor,"  Jasmine says.  "So let's go."

 

Cory sighs as he gets to his feet.  "I don't believe this.  We're young adults, and they're still making us leave the room like we're little kids,"  he says as he and Jasmine leave the apartment.  In the hallway outside, Cory paues and looks at his sister.  "Are you really gonna make me sit through that old movie?"

 

"Well, why don't you call Daniel, and have him meet you at the theater?"  Jasmine asks.  "The two of you can see it together, and I'll make myself scarce."

 

Daniel smiles.  "Hey, great idea," he says, and he and Jasmine head down the hall.

 

Meanwhile, back in the apartment, while Lila still rants and raves, Cass walks to the bar and pours two drinks, then hands one to her.  "Thanks,"  she says, taking the drink.  "How DARE he?  The nerve of that snotty little........"

 

"Lila, would you calm down, please?"  Cass asks.  "You know what you're doing, don't you?  You're giving John Ross Ewing power over your life.  He's making you miserable, and he's not even here."

 

"Cass, I can't help it.  You heard how he talked to me yesterday at that rodeo."

 

"Yes, I did.  And  I also heard Justin AND Bobby come to your defense.  Lila, John Ross is only one member of that family."

 

"Yes, but he's the one that gets under my skin.  He's the one I feel I have to prove myself to, and prove myself a Ewing, I WILL."

 

"What do you plan to do, Lila?"  Cass asks.

 

Lila walks to the window and looks out, takes a sip of her drink, then turns back to face Cass.  "I'll tell you what I'm gonna do.  I'm gonna do exactly what I originally planned to do, until I let you talk me out of it."

 

"You're going through with it?  You wanna go to court to try to get a share of J.R. Ewing's estate, don't you?"

 

"You're damned right, I do,"  Lila says.

 

"Lila......"

 

"Cass, you're not gonna talk me out of it this time.  I'd like for you to represent me, but if you won't........then I'll find a lawyer who will."

 

"That won't be necessary.  I'll represent you, if this is what you wanna do.  But I have to warn you, once we start this ball rolling, there's no turning back."

 

"I don't care.  No one talks to me the way my half-brother did yesterday and gets away with it,"  Lila says, a fierce look on her face.  

Jordan Lee III's apartment....the next morning....

 John Ross, Brandon Harwood, Samantha Chambers, and Jordan Lee III are meeting the next morning in Jordan's apartment.  "Okay, we know that Wendell changed his will to make Shawn Smith his sole heir.  With all that money behind him, not to mention all of Wendell's Westar stock and power, that little punk will be an even bigger thorn in our sides.  So we have to act fast."

 

"You mean step up our plan?  Speed things up a bit?"  Brandon asks.

 

 "That's right,"  John Ross replies.  "We step up the plan.  Pull the rug out from under Smith sooner than expected."

 

"Shouldn't be a problem,"  says Samantha.  "Shawn has already signed the contract to buy the land and the oil leases."

 

"Good,"  says John Ross.  "Then we're all in agreement.  We execute our plan right away?  Within the next week?"

 

"Yes,"  Samantha replies.

 

"Agreed,"  says Brandon.

 

 

"Jordan?"  John Ross asks, turning to the young man, who has remained quiet throughout the meeting.  "You haven't said anything yet.  What do you think?"

 

"Yes,"  Jordan answers.  "Agreed."

 

"Samantha, I want you to arrange a meetin' with Shawn for this evening," John Ross says.  "String him along a little more.  I'm sure he'll wanna celebrate his new good fortune."

 

"Fine."

 

"Now wait a minute,"  says Brandon.  "I don't think we should ask Samantha to meet with Smith again."

 

"Brandon, it's fine, really,"  Samantha says.  "I'm ready to nail Shawn Smith's ass to the wall, and whatever I can do to accomplish that, I'm in."

 

"I knew we could count on you, darlin',"  John Ross says, much to Brandon's annoyance.  

 

"Well, I've gotta get to the office,"  Brandon says.  "I have an early meeting."

 

"Yeah, and I think I had better get to my office, too,"  says Samantha.  "I'll give Shawn a call as soon as I get there and set up somethin' for this evening."

 

"Good,"  John Ross says with a nod and a smile, as Brandon gives both he and Samantha an angry look.  

Ewing Oil....a short while later....

 Sly and Sally are working at their desks when John Ross steps off the elevator and walks into Ewing Oil half an hour later.  "Mornin', ladies,"  he says.

 

"Good morning, John Ross,"  Sly and Sally both say, almost in unison.

 

"Any messages?"  

 

"Paul Fletcher called, and wanted to meet with you,"  Sly replies.  "So, I scheduled a meeting for 3:30 tomorrow afternoon."

 

"Okay, that's fine,"  John Ross says.  "And get Stephanie Barton on the phone.  Her husband died a couple months back, and I hear she's interested in sellin' his refinery."

 

"Are you planning to make an offer?"

 

"Yes, I am."

 

"John Ross, I thought we already had a refinery,"  says Sally.

 

"We do.  But, darlin', Ewing Oil is gonna be pumpin' so much fresh crude in the next few months from all our new fields that, one refinery just itn't enough."

 

"Well, John Ross,"  Clay says as he comes into the secretaries' office.  "You're a few minutes late getting in.  Stop to kick a few puppies along the way?  Or did you foreclose on an orphanage or an old age home?"

 

John Ross laughs at the comment.  "Funny,"  he says.  "You're a funny guy, Clay.  Maybe you missed your callin' to be the next Jim Carrey."

 

"You're the entertainer in THIS family, John Ross,"  Clay says.  "That was quite a show you put on with Lila at the rodeo on Saturday.  I was so happy to see that she didn't back down to you."

 

"Let me tell you somethin', Clay,"  John Ross says.  "Lila Winthrop may be a thorn in my side for now, but soon, I'm gonna get rid of that thorn, and then........I'm gonna get YOU outta my hair, too."

 

"Don't bet on that, John Ross.  I like it here in Dallas, and I like it at Ewing Oil.  I don't plan on going anywhere."

 

"And don't YOU bet on that......nephew,"  John Ross says, then brushes past Clay and goes into his office.  

 

Clay laughs.  

 

Sly shakes her head.  "Clay, why do you continue to egg him on like that?"

 

"Because it's so darn much fun,"  Clay says, then walks away.  Sly and Sally exchange looks and smiles, and the two women shake their heads in dismay.

Smithfield, Bennett, and Winthrop....

 "Come in,"  Cass says, ushering Lila into his office later that morning.  "I thought it best that we talk here instead of at the apartment."

 

"Well, why?"  Lila asks.  "Cory left last night, headed back to Austin, and Jasmine left the apartment early.  Probably to go see Conner Ewing."

 

"Since I am now acting as your attorney, I felt that this should be discussed here in my office rather than at home.  Now, as I told you before, J.R. Ewing's will only left provisions for his three sons, James, John Ross, and Justin, and their heirs.  But at the time the will was written, J.R. had no idea that he had also fathered two daughters.  Now, he did learn of Jill's existence shortly before his death, and, from the information I've been able to gather, 

J.R. was planning on using his relationship with Jill to gain a foothold into Westar, since Jill and her mother, Kimberly Cryder, at that time, held controlling interest in the company."

 

Lila nods.  "Yeah, that makes sense.  But what doesn't make sense is why my father didn't change his will to include Jill."

 

"Obviously, J.R. was killed in Mexico before he had the chance to make a new will,"  says Cass.  "Maybe he was planning to do it when he came back to Dallas.  But J.R. had learned of Jill's existence only a couple of weeks before his death."

 

"Cass, what does all this mean?"  Lila asks.  

 

Cass sighs.  "Well, since J.R. had not made a new will, at least that we know of, I'm afraid we don't stand much of a chance of you getting part of the estate, UNLESS you and Jill band together and take the will, and your brothers, to court.  And Lila, I have to tell you, it's not likely that Jill would agree to that.  She barely knows you, and she's very close to Justin.  Not only that, she and John Ross have, after a rough start to their relationship, become close themselves.  And, I warn you........if we proceed on our own, we may just be laughed out of court."

 

Lila stands and walks to the window, looking out.  "You're tellin' me this is hopeless?"

 

"No, not hopeless.  Just preparing you for an uphill battle.  I suggest going to see Jill in person, and explaining to her what she would have to gain if she throws in with you."

 

"I'll do just that,"  Lila says.  

 

"If Jill refuses, do you plan to go through with this on your own?"  Cass asks.

 

"You're damned right, I do."

 

"Alright, then, I'll represent you.  Go and see Jill, but if she refuses to be a part of our suit, there may be another way."

 

"What other way?"  Lila asks.

 

"Your grandfather's will,"  Cass replies.  "I'll take a look at a copy of Jock Ewing's will, and see what kind of provisions he set up for.......future heirs."

 

Lila looks at him and nods.

The Krebbs Ranch....afternoon....

 Donna is sitting at the desk in the living room at the Krebbs home typing on her laptop when Ray comes into the house.  He walks into the living room, goes over to his wife and kisses her on the back of the neck.  "Hey,"  he says.  "Hope you got some of that good ice tea made.  Gettin' hot out there."

 

"There's some in the kitchen."

 

"Say, what are you workin' on there?  Same thing you were typin' in bed last night?"

 

"Well, yes,"  Donna says.

 

"You workin' on a new book and didn't tell me?"  Ray asks with a smile.

 

Donna stops typing and turns to look at him.  "No,"  she says, then sighs deeply.  "Ever since yesterday, I have been working on my letter of resignation."

 

"Resignation?  You're resigning as Railroad Commissioner?"  Ray asks.

 

"I sure am.  Now that the Oil Regulatory Commission is in charge of the oil industry in Texas, there's nothing for me to do.  The Railroad Commission has been stripped of its power, and its purpose, so......"

 

"Well, what are ya gonna do now?"

 

Donna smiles.  "I dunno, maybe I'll just settle back and become a real housewife of Braddock."

 

"Come on now.  I can never imagine you just sittin' around doin' housework and watchin' the soaps all day."

 

"I seem to remember a time when you'd have been happy if I stayed home and did housework and watched soaps all day,"  Donna says.  

 

"That was the old Ray Krebbs."

 

"And......the NEW Ray Krebbs?"  Donna asks.

 

Ray looks at his wife and smiles.  "Well, he wants his wife to do whatever makes her happy.  You been workin' hard most of your life, both in politics and in other things.  So, if you feel you've reached a point in life that you'd like to retire from all that and relax a little, then I'm all for it.  But, if you think you wanna remain active in the political arena in some regard, I'm all for that, too.  Just do what makes YOU happy."

"This is DEFINITELY a NEW Ray Krebbs.  And as for remaining active in the political arena......I'm not so sure.  Politics these days.........well, it's a very volatile climate, and not as much fun as it use to be, and I'm not sure I have the desire, or the energy, to be a part of that anymore."

 

Ray walks over to Donna and kisses her.  "Whatever you decide, you've got my support.  I'll leave ya alone now, and go and get me some of that good ice tea.  I gotta get back to work soon."

 

Donna smiles, then after Ray leaves the room, Donna returns to her work.

Southfork....

 Christopher returns to the stables on his horse in the afternoon and climbs down off the animal and motions to one of the ranch hands nearby.  "Hey, Chet, can you take care of my horse?"  He asks.

 

"Sure thing, Christopher,"  Chet replies.  

 

 

 

 

"Thanks,"  Christopher says as he sees Lucia walking toward the stables.  He walks out to meet her.  "Well, hello,"  he says.  

 "Hello, Christopher,"  says Lucia.  "I was just out walking, and I saw your returning on your horse."

 

"Yeah, I was just gonna head up to the house and grab some lunch."

 

"Tell you what.  Why don't you let me make you a sandwich or something at the cottage?  I saw Courtney leave a little while ago."

 

"I wouldn't wanna put you out or anything,"  Christopher says.  

 

Lucia smiles.  "Believe me, you wouldn't be.  Miguel has already come home and ate lunch and he is back at work somewhere on the ranch, and now that Antonio has started to school in Braddock, I am alone."

 

"And bored?"  Christopher asks with a smile.

 

"Yes.  I could use some company for a while."

 

Christopher nods.  "Okay, sure, I'd love to."

 

"Wonderful.  Come,"  says Lucia.  The two begin walking from the stables back to the cottage.  

 

"Y'know, Lucia, maybe you should think about getting a job,"  Christopher says as they walk along the road.  

 

"A job?"  Lucia asks with a slight laugh.  "I would, but the problem with that is that I do not know how to do much of anything."

 

"You're kidding.  Didn't you work before you married Nicolas?"

 

"No.  My father was quite wealthy.  In fact, he was a high government official.  I lived a very pampered life growing up.  And then, I married Nicolas when I was 19.  Of course, after that, I never had to work, as we always had a house full of servants.  And now, here I am, a 37-year-old formerly wealthy widow left penniless, with no job skills, and, umm.....no life skills."

 

"Well, you know they do have job training courses," says Christopher.  "And you could always go back to school, and get your college degree.  Then you could do almost anything you wanted."

 

"College?  Me?"

 

"Sure, why not.  You've always struck me as a smart lady, Lucia.  I think you're gonna be alright.  And of course, I'm here to help you and the boys any way I can."

 

Lucia looks at Christopher and smiles, determined to take him up on his kind offer.

A doctor's office in Dallas....

Meanwhile, Courtney is sitting nervously in the waiting room in a doctor's office, with Phyllis at her side.  Phyllis looks at her daughter, who is twiddling her thumbs and moving around restlessly in her seat.  

 

"Sweety calm down," Phyllis says.

 

"I'm sorry, Mom, I'm just really nervous about these test results.

 

"I know.  But, honey, I'm sure everything will be alright."

 

Courtney sighs deeply.  "I hope so."

 

Just then, a nurse comes to the door.  "Mrs. Ewing?"  She says.  

 

"Yes?"

 

"Dr. Cavanaugh will see you now."

 

Courtney looks at her mother, then reluctantly gets up from her seat.  

 

"Do you want me to come with you?"  Phyllis asks.

 

"No, thanks, Mom.  I need to do this on my own."  Courtney follows the nurse through the door, and the nurse closes it.  Phyllis sighs, a worried look on her face.

 

A moment later, the nurse leads Courtney into an examining room.  "Just have a seat, Mrs. Ewing.  Dr. Cavanaugh will be right in."

 

Courtney nods at the young nurse.  "Thank you."

 

The nurse leaves, and no sooner has she walks out of the room than Dr. Cavanaugh, an attractive woman in her mid-40s, comes in.  "Hello, Courtney,"  she says.  

 

"Dr. Cavanaugh.  You said on the phone that you have my test results."

 

"Yes, I do,"  Dr. Cavanaugh says.  

 

"And?  Is there a reason that Christopher and I haven't been able to conceive again?"  Courtney asks.  "Is there a problem with me?  Or, should I ask him to see his doctor for tests?"

 

"Courtney, yes, there is a reason why you haven't been able to get pregnant again since your miscarriage.  Our tests show that the miscarriage caused some damage to your fallopian tubes.  One of the tubes is damaged beyond repair, and the other..... while still functional, it's very unlikely that you'll be able to get pregnant again."

"What?"  Asks a stunned Courtney.  "Dr. Cavanaugh, you're telling me that Christopher and I will never be able to have  a child together?"

 

"Courtney, I'm not saying it's impossible.  But with your condition, conceiving would be VERY difficult, and even if you did get pregnant, with only one partially functioning fallopian tube, the chances of you being able to carry a child full term are extremely low.."

 

"No, this.......this can't be happening,"  Courtney says in tears.  

 

"Courtney, I'm so sorry.  But you know, you do have one thing to be thankful for that a lot of women in your situation don't have."

 

"I'd like to know what that is."

 

"You already have a child,"  Dr. Cavanaugh says.  

 

"Yes, and I am grateful for Jacob.  But, I wanted so much to give Christopher a child of his own."

 

"Maybe you should consider adopting."

 

"It's NOT the same!"  Courtney angrily says.  "Christopher was adopted, and he's spent most of his life feeling like he doesn't really have a close connection to anyone.  I wanted so much to give him that......a child, a BIOLOGICAL child of his own."

 

"Courtney, miracles DO happen.  As a medical professional, I've seen it.  Sometimes things that seem impossible by a natural standpoint, happen.  I'm not telling you to give up."

 

"But you just said that, even if I did by some miracle conceive a child, I probably wouldn't be able to carry it to full term."

 

"Yes, but again, it's not impossible," Dr. Cavanaugh says.

 

"No.  I can't  I can't go through another miscarriage."  Courtney stand from her seat.  "Thank you," she says, then she turns and walks out of the office as the doctor watches her, a look of helplessness on her face.

 

Phyllis is sitting in the waiting room flipping through a magazine when Courtney comes out.  Phyllis quickly puts down the magazine, gets up, and walks over to her daughter.  "Well, that was fast.  Courtney, is everything alright?"

 

"No, Mom.  Nothing's alright," replies a devastated Courtney.  

 

"Honey, what is it?"  Phyllis asks, placing her hand on her daughter's shoulder.  

 

"Mom, let's just get out of here," Courtney says.  Phyllis picks up her purse and the two women leave the office.  

 

 

 

Southfork....the cottage....later....

 "Lucia, that was absolutely delicious,"  Christopher says with a smile after consuming the lunch Lucia had fixed for him.  "But you didn't have to go to the trouble of fixing me a whole lunch.  A couple sandwiches would've been fine."

 

"No, it would not,"  says Lucia.  "After all, you're a very hard working man, Christopher, and you need your nourishment."

 

"Well, this hard workin' man really appreciates it.  And, as much as I hate to go, I really do need to be getting back to work."

 

Lucia smiles.  "If you must."

 

"I must,"  Christopher says, standing from his seat at the table.  "Thank you again."

 

"You're very welcome.  Whenever you are out working, I would be very happy to make you a nice lunch.  Any time."

 

"I appreciate that.  I'll see you later."  Christopher picks up his hat, puts it on, smiles at Lucia, then quickly leaves.  

 

Lucia smiles, feeling more and more attracted to Christopher all the time.  

 

Meanwhile, Courtney's car pulls into Southfork as she is returning from her visit to her doctor in Dallas.  She 

 brings the car to a stop.  As she gets out of the car, she happens to look toward the cottage and she sees Christopher coming out of the cottage.  An expression of hurt and anger comes over her face as Courtney watches her husband walk away from the cottage in the direction of the stables.  After a short pause, she wipes a tear from her eye, then begins walking toward the house.

Westar Oil....late afternoon....

 "My grandfather's funeral is scheduled for day after tomorrow,"  Shawn says to his attorney, Neil Prescott, in his office at Westar.  "I'd like to know how long after that his will can be read."

 

"Well, under Texas law, the will would have to go through probate court, and with an estate as massive as your grandfather's, that could take months."

 

"MONTHS?"  Asks an annoyed Shawn.  "Are you kidding me?  I may have to wait months before I see a dime of my inheritance from my grandfather?"

 

"Yep, that's about it."

 

"Well I don't accept that.  I want that will read as soon as possible."

 

"Shawn, the will has to go through probate," the attorney says.

 

"Then put it through probate,"  Shawn says.  "You're a lawyer, Neil.  Make it happen."

 

 

"Shawn......"

 

"Look, Neil, I pay you one hell of a retainer.  I want that will read SOON."

 

"What is the hurry?"  Neil asks.  

 

"What's the hurry?  $800 million, Neil.  THAT'S the hurry.  I want that will read, so you do whatever you have to do to make that happen."  

 

"I'll do my best."

 

"No, Neil,"  Shawn says.  "I don't want you to do your best.  I want you to get it done.  Have that will read in the next week..... two at the most."

 

"Alright.  I'll speak to the Dallas County probate judge first thing tomorrow morning."

 

"This afternoon would be a better idea,"  Shawn says.  "As soon as you leave here."

 

"As soon as I leave here, I have a meeting downtown with another client......"

 

"Cancel it.  I pay you a large enough retainer that you don't NEED any other clients.  From now on, Neil, I want you to devote your full time to handling my legal affairs."

 

Neil sighs.  "Shawn, look, I handle several other clients whose legal affairs my firm has taken care of for years, since my father started out."

 

"I don't care,"  says Shawn.  "Now that I'm going to be permanent CEO and majority stockholder in Westar, I'm going to need an attorney to devote himself full time to handling my affairs.  You're the best in the business, and I'm sure I pay you more than all those other clients put together.  And it would be a real shame if you lost me and Westar as clients, in addition to all your other clients as well.  I'm sure no one would want to be represented by  a law firm mired in scandal."

 

"Scandal?  What SCANDAL?"  Neil asks.

 

"Oh, take your pick.......financial, ethical, or......my personal favorite........sexual.  Do I make myself clear, Neil?"

 

The baffled young attorney looks at Shawn for a few seconds.  "Crystal clear."

 

Shawn smiles.  "Good.  I knew I could count on you.  Now, I'll let you get out of here and go see about getting my grandfather's will rushed through probate."

 

Neil looks at him and nods, then leaves the office.  After he's gone, Shawn walks to the window and looks out over the skyline of the city of Dallas.  He smiles, savoring the victory of the new life he is about to embark upon as not only the city's youngest CEO, but also one of its youngest multi-millionaires.

Southfork....evening....

 John Ross and Alex arrive home at Southfork late in the evening.  Meanwhile, Bobby, Ann, Lucas, Heather, Christopher, and Krystina are gathered for drinks in the den as they wait for the rest of the family to arrive for dinner.  Various conversations are going on around the room when John Ross and Alex walk in.  

 

"Good evening, family,"  John Ross cheerfully says, walking into the den.

 

"Hi, honey,"  Krystina says, greeting her husband with a kiss.  

 

"John Ross, you're certainly in a good mood tonight,"  says Bobby.  

 

"I've got every reason to be in a good mood, Uncle Bobby.  Today has been one of those days when everything just seemed to go right."

 

"He's been in this kinda mood all day,"  says Alex.

 

"Anything happen at the office that I should know about, John Ross?"  Bobby asks.

 

"Oh, not really, Uncle Bobby.  Let's just say I'm in the process of removing a very large, and very annoying thorn in Ewing Oil's side.  And, if everything keeps on workin' out the way it has, hopefully I'll soon have a couple of thorns removed from my own side."

 

"Would Lila Winthrop be one of those thorns, John Ross?"  Lucas asks.

 

John Ross looks at his cousin and smiles.  "I don't really think that's any of your business, Lucas,"  he says as Christopher walks into the room.  

 

"Hey, has anyone seen Courtney?"  Christopher asks.  

 

"I thought she was in your room,"  Ann says.

 

"No, she's not."

 

"I did see her earlier,"  says Heather.  "And she seemed upset."

 

"Did she say what about?"

 

"No, sorry, she didn't."

 

"Maybe she's upstairs with the boys,"  Krystina says.  

 

Christopher sighs.  "Maybe so.  I'll check."  As Christopher walks into the foyer and starts to go upstairs, Michael and Jacob come down the stairs.  "Jacob, is your mother upstairs?"  Christopher asks.

 

"No, she isn't.  Why?"

 

"Just wondered.  You boys better go in and get ready for dinner."

 

"Dad, is something wrong?"  Jacob asks.  

 

"No.  Everything's fine.  Just get ready for dinner."  Christopher turns and walks out of the foyer.  A moment later, he walks out of the house and onto the patio.  He then sees that Courtney's car is not parked in its usual spot in the parking area.  Taking his cell phone from his pocket, he dials Courtney's number.  The phone rings several times, but she doesn't pick up.  After waiting for the beep on her voice mail, he leaves her a message.  "Courtney,  it's me.  Honey, where are you?  We're about to sit down to dinner, and no one seems to know where you are.  I'm starting to get worried, so, if you're not gonna be home for dinner, give me a call."  He ends the call and puts his phone back into his pocket.  As he is about to head back into the house, he sees headlights approaching as Courtney's car pulls into Southfork and comes to a stop.  Christopher waits for his wife until she gets out of her car and walks up to him on the patio.  The two look at each other.  "Courtney, where have you been?"

 

"Do you really care?"

 

"What the hell kind of a question is that?"  Christopher asks.  "Of course, I care."

 

"I thought you'd be too wrapped up in Lucia Trevino to give a damn where I was."

 

"Oh my God, are we back on THAT again?  Courtney, how many times do I have to tell you there is nothing going on between Lucia Trevino and me?"

 

"Then why did I see you coming out of the cottage this afternoon with a big smile on your face?"

 

"Lucia had fixed me lunch, Courtney.  LUNCH, that's it!"

 

"She's been fixing quite a lot for you lately, hasn't she?"  Courtney asks.

 

"This jealousy of yours is getting ridiculous, and I'm really getting sick of it,"  Christopher angrily says.  

 

"And I'm getting sick and tired of my husband spending almost all of his free time with another woman.  A woman who shouldn't even be here to begin with!  Lucia and her sons have been here for more than a month now.  Isn't it time she found her own place in Dallas or somewhere, if she plans on staying here?"

 

"I told Lucia she could use the cottage for as long as she likes!"

 

"OH, AND I'M SURE SHE'LL TAKE FULL ADVANTAGE OF THAT OFFER JUST TO BE NEAR YOU!"  Courtney shouts.  

 

"This is beyond ridiculous, Courtney!"  Christopher says, his and Courtney's angry voices carrying inside the house through the open patio doors. 

 

As Ann and Heather go into the kitchen to check on dinner, they hear the heated argument going on between husband and wife just outside.  The two women exchange stunned looks, surprised to hear Christopher and Courtney going at it this way.  After a moment, they decide to intervene.  "Hey, what's goin' on out here?"  Ann asks, she and Heather going onto the patio.  

 

"Yeah, we could hear y'all all the way inside," says Heather.

 

"Nothing,"  Christopher says.  "Just my wife having another one of her ridiculously paranoid attacks of jealousy."

 

"Paranoid?"  Courtney angrily asks.  "I don't think I'm being paranoid when I basically have to make an appointment to spend five minutes with my own husband!"

 

"Well lately you haven't been someone I've wanted to spend time with!"

 

"Okay, you two, that's enough,"  says Heather.

 

"I'll say it is,"  Ann agrees.  "Look, dinner's ready, so, come on in and let's all sit down and eat."

 

"Thanks, but I think I'd rather have dinner in town,"  Christopher says.  He brushes past Courtney and heads toward his car.

 

"Well, then you can just STAY in town!"  Courtney yells.  "Or better yet, move into the cottage with Lucia!"

 

"MAYBE I WILL!"  Christopher says.  He gets into his car, and the woman watch as he quickly speeds away, his tires screeching.  

 

Courtney begins to cry.  Ann puts her arm around her.  "Sweety, it'll be alright,"  she says in an attempt to comfort her.  "He'll be back and you two will work this out."

 

"Honestly, at this point, I don't care anymore,"  Courtney says, then she quickly runs into the house, leaving Ann and Heather deeply concerned about the state of their marriage.  

 

Meanwhile, as Courtney runs through the living room and down the hall to her bedroom, she is spotted by John Ross, who is standing in the living room doorway, having heard part of the heated argument.  He smiles, taking sadistic pleasure in his cousin's marital problems.  

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

 John Ross is standing at the mirror putting on his tie the next morning as Krystina walks into their bedroom from the bathroom.  She notices that John Ross is whistling as he ties his necktie.  She looks at him and smiles.  "Wow, you're in an even better mood this morning than you were last night," she says.  

 

"Is that so surprising?"  John Ross asks.  "Especially after that marathon love makin' session we had last night?"

 

Krystina walks over and puts her arms around him.  "Hmmmmm, that WAS wonderful, wasn't it?"

 

"Yes, it was,"  John Ross says, turning to face her.  "And we're gonna be havin' a lot more of those if things keep goin' as great as they have been lately.  I'm in the process of gettin' Shawn Smith out of Westar and out of my hair for good, and after that I'll take care of Brad Barnes and the ORC, and then.......Lila Winthrop and Clay Beaumont.  And not only that, I have a feelin' that pretty soon, I'll have Ewing Oil ALL to myself."

 

"What makes you think that?"

 

"Well, at this point, I don't think Uncle Bobby is the slightest bit interested in returning to the company as president.  And Christopher, well, right now he's pretty tied up with his own marital woes."

 

Krystina sighs.  "Yeah, I sure hope he and Courtney can work things out."

 

"But not too soon.  Darlin', I hope they keep on fightin' like this for at least the next couple months."

 

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

 

"Darlin', I'm not sayin' I want Christopher and Courtney split up for good, but, the more and the longer their little marital trouble keeps him distracted and keeps his mind OFF of comin' back to work at Ewing Oil, the better it is for me.  I overheard Uncle Bobby and Ann talkin' one night, and Krystina, I really think he's seriously thinkin' about retirin' from Ewing Oil all together to concentrate on runnin' the ranch.  That means that Ewing Oil is gonna need a new permanent president, and with Christopher either unable or uninterested in comin' back, then.......who better to fill that job than the man who's been fillin' in as president all these months?"

 

"Well, I sure do hope you get the job permanently, but, not at the expense of Christopher and Courtney's marriage."

 

"Those two might be havin' a rough patch right now, but they'll be alright,"  John Ross says.  "Their marriage is a solid as ours.  And, when I do become permanent president of the comp'ny........I'd like for you to come work with me."

 

"You want me to come back to work at Ewing Oil?"  Krystina asks.

 

"Yes, I do.  Darlin', who else to help me run Ewing Oil, than you, and my son?  A REAL family business, just like my Daddy always wanted it to be."

 

"And what about your mother?  You didn't mention her."

 

"Well, Mama's gettin' on up in years, so, I expect she'll be retirin' one day soon, too.  Hey, y'know what?"

 

"What?"  Krystina asks.

 

"I'm not real hungry this mornin', and I can always grab a sandwich from the vendin' machine when I get to the office. So, what do you say we skip breakfast?"

 

Krystina puts her arms around him and smiles.  "What'd ya have in mind?"

 

"Give me five seconds to get undressed,and I'll show ya,"  John Ross replies, then he begins kissing her.

Shawn's apartment....

Shawn walks onto the balcony of his penthouse apartment that morning, where he finds Samantha Chambers standing, looking out over the city, still dressed in her nightgown.  "Well, there you are,"  he says.  "I woke up and you were gone.  I thought you'd already left, so I jumped in the shower."

 

Samantha turns to face him.  "You were sleeping so soundly and peacefully, I didn't wanna wake you.  I kinda thought you needed your rest after last night.

 

Smiling, Shawn puts his arms around her.  "Sweetheart, you forget.  I'm 20-years-old.  I'm young enough that I don't need to recharge my batteries that often.  In fact, now that I HAVE rested a few hours, I'm ready to go again.  It's still early, so neither of us has to be at our offices for at least another hour.  That's PLENTY of time."

 

"You ARE insatiable, aren't you?"

 

"And you're NOT?"  Shawn asks.  The two begin kissing passionately.  Meanwhile, Samantha's cell phone begins vibrating on the table in Shawn's living room, indicating an incoming call.

Holly Harwood's home.... 

 Meanwhile, Holly Harwood is sitting by the pool on her patio, pouring herself a cup of coffee, while Brandon paces around, holding his phone to his ear as he is trying to call Samantha.  When he receives no answer, he sighs in frustration, then puts his phone away.  

 

 

 

"Brandon, are you alright?"  Holly asks.

 

"What, Mom?"

 

"I asked if you're alright.  You seem upset.  When I asked you to have breakfast with me out here on the patio this morning, I had no idea I'd be competing with your phone for your attention."

 

"I'm sorry, Mom,"  Brandon says.  "I'm just, uh, worried about a friend."

 

"What friend?"  Holly asks.

 

"Samantha Chambers."

 

Holly gives her son a concerned look.  "Samantha Chambers?  Why on Earth would you be worried about her?"

 

Brandon looks at his mother.  "It's a long story, Mom.  I'd rather not talk about it."

 

"Well, alright, then,"  says Holly.

 

"What I WOULD like to talk about is the reason I came over here this morning.  Mom, as you know, my birthday is coming up in a few weeks."

 

"Yes, Brandon, I'm very well aware of that.  I AM your mother, you know."

 

"Yes.  And if you really wanna do something for me for my birthday, you could give me the answer that I've been waiting for my whole life."

 

"Brandon, don't......"

 

"Mom, don't you think it's time you told me who my father is?"  Brandon asks.  

 

"It doesn't matter."

 

"It matters to ME.  Damn it, Mom, why the hell won't you tell me?  I have a right to know who my father is.  I'd like to get to know him."

 

"Well, that would be impossible,"  Holly says, standing from her seat.  She walks over to the pool and looks at the water shimmering in the morning sunlight.

 

"Why, Mom?  Why is it impossible?"  Brandon asks.  

 

Holly hesitates for a few seconds before replying.  "Because he's dead.  Your father's dead, Brandon."

 

"Dead?  My......my father is dead?"

 

"Yes,"  Holly replies, turning to face her son.  "So there's no chance that you could ever get to know him, so, sweetheart, it's best if you just drop this."

 

"Why didn't you tell me this?  Why didn't you tell me that my father had died?"

 

"Brandon, listen to me,"  Holly says.  "I have NEVER, not once, regretted giving birth to you.  You are the best thing that has ever happened to me.  But my involvement with your father was a huge mistake.  You were the only good thing that came of it.  And I beg of you, just let it go."

 

"I can't let it go, Mom.  Don't you understand, there is a part of me that's missing.  I need to know."

 

"Well, I'm sorry.  But only pain can come of you knowing who your father was.  Pain for you, and........for other people."

 

Brandon looks at his mother for a moment.  "Oh my God," he says.  "What I've always suspected is true.  It has to be true.  J.R. Ewing was my father, wasn't he?  That's why you won't tell me.  Mom, I know all about your affair with him."  It IS him, isn't it?"

 

"Brandon, let it go.  I mean it.  For your sake, and for mine!"  Holly angrily turns and walks away from her son without saying another word to him.  Brandon watches as his mother storms into the house, slamming the door behind her.  

 

"You can walk away from me, but you can't hide from the truth, Mother,"  he says quietly after Holly has gone into the house.  "If J.R. Ewing was my father, I'll find out.  I swear I will.  Even if I have to ask John Ross to take a damned DNA test.."  Brandon picks up his jacket hanging on the back of a chair and walks away.

Smithfield, Bennett, and Winthrop....later....

 Cass's secretary buzzes his office early in the afternoon.  "Mr. Winthrop, Anita Smithfield is here."

 

"Thank you, Janet.  Send her in,"  Cass says, sitting at his desk as Lila stands beside him.  

 

"Well, she's right on time,"  says Lila.

 

"Yes."  Cass stands from his seat and walks around to the front of his desk.  A second later, Anita Smithfield walks into the office carrying her briefcase.  Cass smiles.  "Ms. Smithfield, thank you for coming."

 

"Mr. Winthrop, it's a pleasure to finally meet the new partner in my Uncle Harv's law firm,"  Anita says, shaking hands with Cass.

 

"Please, call me Cass.  And this is my former wife, and client, Lila Winthrop."

 

"Mrs. Winthrop,"  Anita says.

 

"Ms. Smithfield,"  says Lila.  

 

"Well, shall we get down to why you called this meeting?"  Anita asks.

 

"Yes, let's all sit down,"  Cass suggests.  "I trust you brought the documents I asked for?"

 

Anita takes a seat in the chair across from Cass's.  "Yes, I did." She opens her briefcase and takes out two large binders.  "As you requested, here is a copy of J.R.'s will, including the codicil he asked me to draw up which provided for his sons, James and Justin.  And, here, a copy of Jock Ewing's will, which was drawn up by my Uncle Harv."

 

"Have you had a chance to read Jock Ewing's will?"  Cass asks.

 

"Yes. I have.  I read through it on the plane en route here."

 

Cass takes Jock's will and opens it.  He begins reading as Lila and Anita silently look on.  After more than a full minute, Cass stops reading and looks at the two women.  

 

"Well?  Did you find what you were looking for?"  Anita asks.

 

"Maybe I did.  Jock Ewing left a provision for his grandchildren, a trust in which each grandchild was to receive a sum of money upon reaching his or her 21st birthday.  And it was to be divisible by the number of grandchildren in the Ewing family at that time."

 

"So what does this mean?"  Lila asks.

 

"Anita, when this will was drawn up about 40 years ago, Jock and Ellie Ewing only had two grandchildren, or, I should say, two KNOWN grandchildren, Lucy, and John Ross, who was just an infant at the time,"  says Cass.  "Since then, the number of Ewing grandchildren has grown exponentially."

 

"Well, I do know that each of the grandchildren who were born into the family.......Lucas, Margaret, Christopher, Justin, as well as Gary Ewing's children, Bobby and Betsy.......received their share of the trust upon reaching their 21st birthday,"  says Anita.  

 

"And what about the grandchildren who were not exactly born into the family?"  Cass asks.  "Those who, shall we say, showed up later?"

 

"You mean the illegitimate grandchildren," Anita says.

 

"Yes."

 

"Well, unfortunately, illegitimate grandchildren who were to.......join the family later ........were not specifically mentioned in the will," replies Anita.  "I guess Jock Ewing just didn't take that into account at the time."

 

"However, I'm wondering."

 

"Wondering what, Cass?"  Lila asks.

 

"I'm wondering if this wording here........each grandchild is to receive an equal portion from the trust, to be divisible by the number of grandchildren at the time.  Anita.......attorney to attorney.........in your professional opinion, could this be interpreted to INCLUDE the illegitimate grandchildren?  After all, they are as much Jock Ewing's grandchildren as John Ross or Lucy."

 

"And even more so than Christopher, since he's adopted and not even a blood Ewing,"  says Lila.

 

Anita takes the will and looks at it, then sighs.  "I suppose it could.  Of course, it would depend on how a judge interpreted the will.  And of course you know that the Ewings will probably challenge this, especially John Ross and some of the other grandchildren."

 

"Yes, I know."

 

"Cass, what does this mean?"  Lila asks.  "Do we stand a chance of getting what's coming to me?"

 

"I think first we should try our original approach,"  Cass replies.  "Go and see Jill. and find out what she has to say, if she's willing to join you in a suit to challenge J.R.'s will in court.  And if not, then.........then we go this route of using your grandfather's will."

 "But in order to do that, you're going to need help,"  Anita says.  "And by help, I mean the other grandchildren. Jill Anderson, and any other illegitimate Ewing grandchildren.  Umm, doesn't Ray Krebbs have a son?"

 

"Yes, Heath Allen,"  Lila replies.  

 

"And Gary Ewing also has an illegitimate daughter, ummm, Lila, what's her name?"  Cass asks.

 

"Uh......Mary?  No, Molly, something."

 

"Yes."

 

"Well, you're going to need all of them, IF you want to use Jock Ewing's trust for his grandchildren," says Anita.  "With all of you banding together in this, you'll stand a better chance." 

 

"And, something else might help as well,"  Cass says.

 

"Something else?  Like what?"  Lila asks.

 

"Lucas Ewing,"  Cass replies.  "Lucas was ALSO illegitimate.  Bobby Ewing wasn't married to Lucas's mother, Jenna Wade, at the time of his birth.  Jenna married Bobby's brother Ray later that year, and Ray raised Lucas.  And yet Lucas received his part of the trust."  

 

"Yes, but that could also be because he was raised as Ray's son,"  says Anita.  

 

"I know, but still.  He received his share.  And that could matter, even if he was raised as Ray's son.  Lila, I suggest you go to California as soon as possible and talk to Jill."

 

"Oh, I will."

 

"Anita, thank you for your time, and for bringing these documents,"  Cass says.

 

"No problem,"  Anita says, standing from her seat.  "Cass, again, it's a pleasure, and I hope this helps."

 

"Ms. Smithfield, I'm curious about something,"  says Lila.

 

"And what would that be?"

 

"You were my father's attorney for a long time, and, from what I've heard, his mistress, too.  And yet, you agreed to help us in challenging his will.  Why?"

 

Anita looks at Lila and smiles.  "Well, let's just call it.....revenge."

 

"Revenge?"  Lila asks.

 

"Yes.  The Ewings caused me quite a bit of embarrassment the last time J.R.'s will was challenged in court, when John Ross tried to have the codicil I had drawn up overturned in order to stop Justin from receiving his inheritance.  My entire life was dragged through the mud, and I didn't appreciate that.  Nor have I forgotten it.  Good day to you both."  Anita flashes a smile, then walks out of the office.  

 

"Interesting lady,"  Lila says.

 

"Yes, she is," says Cass.

 

"Well, I guess I'll book a flight to L.A. to visit my sister."

 

"Lila, I have an idea,"  says Cass.  "Cory's out of school for spring break next week and he'll be home.  Why don't you take him and Jasmine with you?"

 

Lila smiles.  "Good idea.  I think I'll do that."

Southfork....night....

 Courtney is sitting alone on her and Christopher's bed that night, crying as she thinks about the terrible news her doctor had given her, and about the state of her marriage lately since Lucia Trevino had come to Southfork.  As Courtney wipes her tears, Christopher walks into the bedroom.  The two look at each other for a few seconds, then he closes the door, takes off his jacket, and tosses it onto the chair.  "I thought I would've seen you at dinner," he says, taking off his shirt.

 

"I wasn't feeling well, so I had Maria bring a tray to my room.  I wasn't sure you were even coming home,"  Courtney says.

 

"Yeah.  I spent the night in the guest room last night.  Then I got up early and grabbed a bagel then headed out on the ranch.  I thought if you and I didn't see each other, we couldn't fight.  I hate the way we've been fighting lately."

 

"So do I,"  Courtney says, standing to face him.  

 Justin and Pamela are having breakfast the next morning, while Justin reads the Dallas Morning News.  Pamela takes a sip of her coffee and lets out a deep sigh.  

 

"Darlin', are you okay?"  Justin asks.  

 

"I'm fine, I'm just not looking forward to today," Pamela says.  "I am just NOT looking forward to attending Jeremy Wendell's memorial service."

 

"Then why go?  You barely knew the guy.  Just skip it."

 

"Justin, I can't.  After all, Wendell was Hunter's great-grandfather, so I have an obligation to go."

 

"Yeah, I suppose,"  Justin says.  "Well, I'm glad at least that Afton is goin' with you, since I won't be there."

 

Pamela looks at him.  "What?  Justin, you're not coming with me? But why?"

 

"Pamela, I didn't even know Jeremy Wendell, and not only that, the last person in the world I wanna see is that damned grandson of his.  I'm still facin' charges for beatin' the hell out of Shawn Smith for what he did to you before.  If I see that pompous ass punk at that memorial service, I can't promise I'll be able to control myself."

 

"Okay, you're right,"  Pamela says.  "You stay home with Randall.  Last thing I want is to have to come and bail you out of jail again."

 

Justin smiles.  "Good thinkin'.  Well, that breakfast was delicious.  Now, I think I'm gonna go out for a run. Burn some calories."

 

"Okay.  I'll call my mother and tell her to pick Hunter and I up at 1 for the memorial service."

 

"Y'know, I don't understand why Afton is goin' to this thing,"  Justin says, getting up from the table.  "I thought she couldn't stand Wendell."

 

"She couldn't,"  says Pamela.  "But as Cliff Barnes's widow, and Hunter's grandmother, she also feels like she has an obligation to go."

 

"Well, I'll be back in about an hour,"  Justin says, kissing her.

 

"Okay, be careful."

 

"I will,"  he says as he leaves the apartment.  

 

After Justin is gone, Pamela gets up from the table and leaves the kitchen.  A moment later, she walks into her and Justin's bedroom, where she goes to the closet and opens the door.  Reaching into a box on the top shelf, Pamela pulls out a small plastic bag.  Opening the bag, she takes out a pregnancy test, which she quickly opens up and looks at.  Going into her bathroom, Pamela closes the door, opens the box containing the pregnancy test, and takes the test out.  Again, she looks at it, as if trying to decide whether or not to take it.

Turtle Creek Park....

 

A few minutes later, Justin is jogging in nearby Turtle Creek Park, his mind on a lot of things, including the Westar stock Jill had sold him months ago, and how Jeremy Wendell's death will affect his life now that Shawn will likely inherit all of Wendell's Westar shares.  In his mind, Justin knows that he and Pamela will probably have to have more contact with Shawn now because of that stock.  He is also worried about his upcoming court appearance to face charges for his assault of Shawn a couple of months ago.  As he jogs along, one of his tennis shoe strings begins to come untied.  Realizing this, Justin stops along the trail and kneels down to tie his shoe.  While he is tying the shoe strings, someone comes along, not looking where they are going, and literally runs into Justin, tripping over him, both Justin and the female jogger falling to the ground.  

 

"Hey, why don't you watch where you're goin'?"  Justin angrily asks.

 

"Oh my God, I'm so sorry,"  the female jogger says.  

 

As they both manage to get to their feet, Justin sees that the young lady who collided with him is none other than Ashley.  He looks at her and smiles.  "Ashley,"  he says.

 

"Oh, Justin.  I'm so sorry.  Are you okay?  I didn't hurt you, did I?"  

 

"No, no harm done.  Are YOU okay?"

 

"I'm fine, other than being incredibly embarrassed, clumsy, and not looking where I'm going.  Again, I'm really sorry."

 

"Like I said, no harm done.  What are you doin' down here, anyway?"

 

"Well, ever since spring arrived, I've been coming down here to jog every morning,"  Ashley replies.  "You know, we have Warren Park right there by Clay's apartment building, but, Turtle Creek is much more beautiful, peaceful, and less crowded, so I prefer running here."

 

Justin smiles.  "I agree.  I love comin' here, especially in the mornin'.  It's a great place to think.  Or to take your mind off things."

 

"Something you need to take your mind off of?"  Ashley asks.

 "Uh, yeah, a few things, actually,"  Justin says.  "It's just this stock in Westar Jill gave me to take care of.  And the thought of havin' to deal with that jackass Shawn Smith at board meetings or whatever.  Every time I think about that guy I just wanna break his skull."

 

"Well, you're NOT alone.  Seems like everyone wants Shawn's head on a platter these days."

 

"Yeah, well, enough talk about that guy.  I have an idea.  I come here to run about every other day, and since you come here, too, why don't we run together?  And if either of us ever wants time to run alone to think or whatever, we could let the other know."

 

"I love that idea,"  Ashley says with a smile.  "And I can't think of any better running partner than my favorite uncle."

 

"Okay, then, why don't we start right now?"

 

"Alright, I'll race ya!"  Ashley says as she takes off running.

 

"Hey, wait, I gotta finish tyin' my shoe!"  Justin says as he rushes to catch up to her.

Justin and Pamela's apartment....

Pamela walks into her and Justin's bedroom from the bathroom, and picks up the pregnancy test laying o a piece of paper towel on the table beside the bed.  She looks at it, and an expression of shock comes over her face.  As 

  Bobby walks into the living room at Southfork, goes to the bar and pours himself a drink.  As he is about to take a sip, Ann walks into the room.  She pauses in the doorway for a moment and watches him, then walks over to him.

"Bobby,"  she says.  

 

"Oh, hello, honey."

 

"We should be gettin' ready to go to that memorial service soon.  It's in two hours."

 

"I don't even know why I'm goin' to that damned memorial service," Bobby says.  "I've hated Jeremy Wendell for more years than I care to remember.  The man was almost responsible for getting Christopher killed when he was a kid and Wendell started that range war here at Southfork.  As much as I hate to say this about any man, as far as I'm concerned, this world is a better place without Jeremy Wendell in it."

 

"I sure understand how you feel.  Maybe this is a chance for you to get some kind of closure."

 

Bobby sighs.  "Maybe so.  Well, if we ARE going, I'd better go up and get a shower and get dressed.  I'll be down soon."

 

Ann kisses her husband, then Bobby leaves the room.  A moment after he leaves the room, Courtney walks in.  Ann smiles at her.  "Hi,"  Ann says.

 

"Hello, Ann."

 

"Sweety, is everything alright?"

 

"I'm fine."

 

"I guess like everybody else today, you're not lookin' forward to goin' to Wendell's memorial service this afternoon."

 

"You're right, I'm not,"  Courtney says.  

 

"Is Christopher goin' with you?"  Ann asks.  

 

"Truthfully, Ann, I have no idea what Christopher is gonna do."

 

"Are things still not any better between the two of you?"

 

Courtney sighs.  "It's hard to tell.  We did talk, but, Ann, Christopher is so blind to what's going on."

 

"What do you mean?"  Ann asks.

 

"Lucia Trevino is out to seduce my husband, Ann, and he's so blinded by either his guilt over Lucia's husband's death, or ..........."  Courtney pauses as she fights back tears.  "...........Or the attraction between them is mutual."

 

"Oh, sweety, Christopher loves you.  Look at all the two of you have been through together.  He would never let himself be seduced or taken in by a woman like Lucia Trevino."

 

"I hope you're right,"  Courtney says, wiping a tear from her face.  "Well, I........I'm gonna go and get ready for this memorial.  I wouldn't even go, but, Shawn is my half-brother, and, I'd hate to not be there."

 

Ann nods and smiles at her, then Courtney leaves the room.

A Funeral Home in Dallas....later....

 A line of cars were parked outside of a funeral home in Dallas later in the afternoon as the memorial service for Jeremy Wendell was under way.  Inside the funeral home, dozens of invited guests, members of the Dallas oil

"Thank you for coming,"  Sharon says to each guest who passes by and shakes her hand.  

 

Mitch and Lucy walk by.  "Sharon,"  Mitch says.  

 

"Hello, Mitch.  Lucy,"  Sharon says.  "Thank you for coming."

 

"Sharon, I know that you and your father were never close, but we're very sorry for your loss,"  Mitch says.

 

"Well, thank you, Mitch, and you're right.  Jeremy and I, well, we never had any kind of a relationship at all that wasn't hostile.  As a matter of fact, I don't even know why I'm standing here doing this.  I feel like a hypocrite, since the only feeling I had for the man was contempt."

 

"As hard as this may be to believe, I understand how you feel," Lucy says.  

 

"Well, with any luck, the day'll be over soon,"  Mitch says.  He and Lucy walk away.

 

Shawn walks over to Sharon.  "Mother,"  he says quietly.  "You look pretty miserable over here."

 

"That's alright,"  Sharon says.  "You look happy enough for both of us."

 

"Well, Mother, I have every reason to be happy.  I'm about to inherit roughly $800 million, as well as enough stock to give me total control of Westar.  I'll be the most powerful man in Dallas, and one of the most powerful in the entire state.  Not bad for someone who hasn't even reached his 21st birthday yet, huh?"

 

Sharon gives her son a harsh look.  "The worst thing Jeremy Wendell could have done was to make you his heir, not only to his fortune, but to Westar."

 

"Now, Mom, don't tell me you're jealous,"  Shawn says.  "If you had been a little nicer to your father, he might have cut you in on that $800 million fortune."

 

"I wouldn't want it, or anything else from Jeremy Wendell.  I regret the day my mother ever told that man he was my father, and even more than that, I regret the day he found me back in 1987.  This quest for power.......Carter McKay and Jeremy Wendell.  McKay cost me one son, and Jeremy Wendell cost me another.  And now, I feel like I'm losing my youngest son, my baby boy, to that same ruthless drive and ambition that took your brothers from me."

 

"I am NOT going to end up like Hunter and Tripp,"  Shawn says.  "They were weak, and that weakness ended up costing them their lives.  Well, that's not gonna happen to me, Mom, because I have no intention of ever becoming weak like my brothers.  Who knows, maybe that weakness came from the McKay blood in them.  Well, thank God I don't have any of that McKay blood.  I intend to become so strong and so powerful that no one will ever be able to touch me."

 

Sharon fights back tears as she looks at her son.  "Dear God," she says, her voice shaky.  "You really ARE lost."

 

"No, Mom, I'm not lost.  I've just found myself.  Found who I'm supposed to be in life."

 

As Sharon is about to say something, Afton and Pamela walk up to them, Pamela holding Hunter by the hand.  

 

"Hello, Sharon,"  Pamela says.

 

 

Sharon looks at Pamela, then at Hunter and smiles.  "Well, now there's my precious little grandson,"  she says.  

 

"Hunter, can you say hi to your Grandma Sharon?"  Pamela asks the child.  

 

"Hi,"  the little boy says.

 

Sharon kneels down to him.  "Hunter, you're gettin' so big.  You're gonna have to come over and spend the day with me on my next day off.  Would you like that?"

 

"Yes,"  Hunter replies.

 

"Pamela, I'd appreciate it if you'd let me take Hunter my next day off."

 

"Of course, Sharon, anytime,"  Pamela says.  "You ARE Hunter's grandmother, after all.  Just let me know when's a good time for you."

 

"Well, Hunter, you're really growing up,"  says Shawn, kneeling in front of the boy.  "You remember me?  Your Uncle Shawn?"  He reaches out to take the child's hand.

 

Pamela quickly picks the child up in her arms.  "Don't you DARE touch my son!"  She angrily says.  "Mom, take him."

 

"Of course.  Come on, baby,"  Afton says as she takes her grandson from Pamela and walks away.  

 

"Pamela, what was that all about?"  Shawn asks.  "Hunter's my nephew.  Just what the hell did you think I was gonna do?"

"Can you imagine the nerve of that woman, talking to me that way?"  Shawn asks.  "Telling me I can't even see or speak to my own nephew?"

 

"Shaw, what was that all about?" Sharon asks.  "Why does Pamela seem to hate you so much?"

 

"Who knows, with that crazy slut?  But I can guarantee you one thing.  She's gonna regret talking to me like that.  Boy, is she gonna regret it,"  Shawn says, then walks away from his mother.  Sharon breaks down in tears, her heart breaking over the change for the worse in her son.

 

Meanwhile, Courtney and Jacob are signing the guest book near the other entrance of the funeral home.  "Honey, you wanna sign your name or you want me to do it?"  Courtney asks.

 

"You can do it,"  replies Jacob.  "Mom, why did I even have to come to this?"

 

"Because Shawn is my brother, and I thought that we should be here for him.  To show him that we care."

 

Shawn approaches them.  "Courtney,"  Shawn says.

 

"Hi, Shawn.  How are you doing?"

 

"I'm okay.  Hi, Jacob."

 

 

"Shawn, how's it goin'?"  Jacob says.

 

"Just fine.  Man, you've gotten taller and your voice has gotten a lot deeper since the last time I saw you."

 

"Yeah, I guess so.  Sorry about your grandfather."

 

"Yeah, thanks,"  Shawn says.

 

 

 

 

"Shawn, listen, umm, is there anything we can do?"  Courtney asks.  "Anything you need we're here for you.  I mean, we ARE family."

 

 

"Oh, yeah, he's REAL happy we're here,"  Jacob says sarcastically.  "Mom, why do you even bother reaching out to him?  It's obvious Shawn doesn't care about us or about being your brother."

 

Courtney watches sadly as Shawn walks down the hallway and goes into the visitation room.  She sighs deeply.  "Maybe you're right, sweetheart.  And maybe Christopher's right.  I guess Shawn really is a lost cause."

 

"Hey, Mom, there's Dad,"  Jacob says.  

 

Courtney turns around and sees Christopher walk in.  Looking around, Christopher spots his wife and stepson and walks over to them.  "Hi."

 

"Hey, Dad,"  says Jacob.

 

"I didn't think you were coming,"  says Courtney.

 

"Well, I can think of about a million places I'd rather be right now than at a memorial service for Jeremy Wendell, but, I felt like I needed to be here for you right now,"  Christopher says.

 

Courtney smiles.  "I'm glad you came."

 

"Me too, Dad,"  says Jacob.  

 

"Well, son, I'm surprised to see you here,"  Bobby says as he and Ann walk up to them.  

 

"Dad, Ann.  You hated Wendell more than just about anybody, and I figured if you could handle being here, so can I," Christopher says.  

Dallas Yacht Club....

 Meanwhile, Samantha Chambers is anxiously waiting on the dock at the Dallas Yacht Club when she looks and 

  "Hey, I think you'd better get up and get dressed,"  Daniel Cooper says to Cory Winthrop, who is laying on Daniel's bed.  "I don't know how much longer my Dad and Lucy are gonna be at that funeral.  They could be home any minute now."

 

"Yeah, I just hate to leave,"  Cory says.  

 

"And I hate for ya to," says Daniel.  "But, you're supposed to be at school in Austin, remember?  How would we explain you being here?  I'm just glad you decided to come up today."

 

"Well, when you told me your Dad and Lucy would be out all afternoon at a funeral, I had to come up.  And just think......next week is spring break, and I'll be here ALL week long.  We can hang out every day."

 

"Now THAT sounds like my kinda week,"  says Daniel.  "And now that our parents have 'introduced us' and encouraged us to be friends, we can hang out openly, without having to sneak around."

 

Cory gets off the bed and stands to his feet.  "I just wish we didn't have to live this lie.  That we could be open and honest about everything."

 

"So do I.  And speaking of honesty, how much longer are you gonna carry on this charade of being in school down in Austin?"

 

"Well, I made it this far.  It's almost spring break, and the semester will be over soon.  Then.....I'll have all summer to think of something.  In the meantime, let'ss just look forward to next week."

 

"Yeah, and in the meantime, you'd better get dressed and get outta here before my Dad and Lucy get home," Daniel says.

 

"Oh,yeah, and I should also get out of Dallas before someone I know sees me."  Cory picks up his shirt from the bed and as he slips it on, his cell phone rings.  "Dude it's my Mom,"  he says.  He quickly answers Lila's call.  

"Mom?  No, no, I wasn't in class.  I'm actually done for the day.  What's up?"  Cory listens to his mother for a few moments as Lila explains to him about her trip to California.  "What?  Next week?  Umm, for how long?  Mom, I dunno, I........"  Again, Cory pauses and listens as his mother speaks.  After almost a full minute, he lets out a deep sigh.  "Yeah, sure.  Okay, Mom.  Yes, I'll.......be glad to go.  Yeah.  I love you.  I'll see you and Dad this weekend.  Bye."  Cory ends the call and tosses his phone onto the bed.

 

"Okay, what's wrong?"  Daniel asks.

 

"Our spring break plans just got cancelled,"  Cory replies.  "My Mom is flying to California next week to see her half-sister, Jill, and she wants me and Jasmine to go with her.  So much for a fun week."

Jeremy Wendell's memorial service....

 

Back at Wendell's memorial service, as guests continue to mingle and share memories of Jeremy, Shawn's attorney, Neil Prescott, walks in.  Looking around, the attorney spots Shawn chatting with a guest through the crowd and makes his way over to him.  "Excuse me," the attorney says.  "Shawn, can I have a word?

 

"Yes, of course.  Martin, thanks for coming,"  Shawn says to the man he was chatting with.  Martin walks away and Shawn turns to the attorney.  "Counselor, you're LATE," he says.

 

"I just came from meeting with the probate judge,"  Neil says.  "Your grandfather's will is scheduled to be read two weeks from today."

 "Two weeks?"  Shawn asks.  "Well, Neil that's great.  In two weeks, I'm gonna be $800 million richer, and with more power than I ever dreamed of.  And when that happens, a lot of people are gonna pay.........starting with the Ewings."  Shawn walks over to the doorway of the visitation room and looks in at Pamela as she and Afton are chatting with Mitch and Lucy.  "And I think I'll start with that Ewing right there.......my ex-sister-in-law, Pamela."  Shawn smiles deviously.

END OF EPISODE 227....