EPISODE 228 - War Of The Ewings, Take Three

  Bobby and Ann are sitting on the patio as Maria serves them breakfast.  "More coffee, Mrs. Ewing?"  Maria asks.

 

"Yes, Maria, thank you,"  Ann replies.

 

The maid pours Ann a cup of coffee.  "Mr. Ewing?"

 

"Oh, no, thank you,"  says Bobby.  

 

Courtney comes onto the patio.  

 

"Good mornin'," Ann greets her.

 

"Morning, Ann."  Courtney takes her seat at the tables.

 

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

 

"Still asleep.  He was at the cottage again late last night.  This time helping Lucia's son Antonio with his homework."

 

"Courtney, I'm sorry,"  says Bobby.  "When I invited Lucia and the boys to stay in the cottage, I had no idea that Christopher would be spendin' so much time over there."

 

"Bobby, it's not your fault.  Your son's a grown man, he knows what he's doing."

 

"I've talked to him about this before.  You want me to have another talk with him?"

 

"Thank you, but no,"  Courtney says.  "Christopher and I are gonna have to work this out on our own."

 

"I hate to see the two of you goin' through such a rough time,"  says Ann.

 

John Ross, Krystina, and Alex come onto the patio.  "And don't forget, we got that meetin' this afternoon with Harry Davenport,"  John Ross tells his son.

 

"Don't worry, I haven't forgotten,"  Alex says.  "I'll be right into the office as soon as I get out of class."

 

"Harry Davenport?"  Bobby asks.  "Davenport Industries?"

 

"That's right,"  John Ross replies.  "We have a meetin' with him at 3 this afternoon to discuss a contract for Ewing Oil to use some of his takers, now that our contract with Meridian is about to expire in a month."

 

"Davenport is a good outfit with a good reputation,"  Bobby says.  "I tried to get a meeting with Davenport two or three years back, but all his tankers were tied up with Westar then."

 

"His contract with Westar is about to run out,"  says Alex.

 

"And we're plannin' to offer him a substantial bonus for signing with us instead of Westar,"  John Ross adds.

 

"Can Ewing Oil afford that right now?"  Bobby asks.

 

"Oh, yes, Uncle Bobby.  Ewing Oil is solid."

 

"I can imagine Shawn Smith isn't gonna take it too kindly, you luring Davenport away from Westar," says Krystina.

 

John Ross looks at his wife and smiles.  "Well, darlin', frankly, Shawn Smith can go straight to hell."

 

"Where's everybody else this morning?"  Alex asks.

 

"Christopher's still asleep,"  Courtney says.

 

"Lucas and Heather took Michael and Jacob to school already.  There was some kind of ceremony at school this morning, and they were serving breakfast there,"  Bobby says.

 

"Courtney, I'm surprised you didn't attend that with Jacob,"  John Ross says.

 

"I just wasn't feeling up to it."

 

"Oh, I'm sorry.  You and Christopher still havin' problems, are ya?"

 

"John Ross, that's none of your business,"  Courtney says.

 

Meanwhile, a car drives up to Southfork and comes to a stop in the parking area behind Christopher's Tesla.  A young man of about 19 gets out of the car and walks onto the patio.  

 

"Can we help you?"  Bobby asks.

 

"John Ross Ewing III?"  The young man asks.

 

John Ross turns and looks at him.  "I'm John Ross.  And who are you?"

 

"This is for you, Mr. Ewing,"  the young man says, handing John Ross a sealed envelope.  

 

"And what the hell is this?"  John Ross asks.

 

"A summons.  Justin Ewing and Ashley Beaumont are also being served this morning, and James Beaumont, Jr. is being served in Florida.  Have a nice day."  The young man turns and walks away.  

 

"A summons?"  Krystina asks.  "John Ross, what is this all about?"

 

"Damned if I know."

 

"Well, why don't you open it and find out?"  Alex asks.

 

John Ross quickly rips open the envelope and pulls out a folded piece of paper.  He unfolds the paper and begins reading, the confused look on his face soon replaced by a look of anger.  "I don't believe this,"  he says.  "I just don't BELIEVE IT!"

 

"John Ross, what is it?"  Krystina asks.

 

"Well, I hope that everyone at this table who wanted to embrace Lila Winthrop as part of this family will be happy now!"

 

"John Ross, what's goin' on?"  Bobby asks.

 

"Lila Winthrop is suing for part of my father's estate, and that's not all.  She somehow has got Jill to join her."

 

"What?  Jill?"  Ann asks.

 

"That's right.  Lila and Jill are goin' to court to try and get part of my father's estate."

 

Bobby and Ann exchange stunned looks.

Meanwhile....Justin and Pamela's apartment....

 Justin and Pamela are having breakfast that morning, and Justin notices how quiet Pamela is.  "More coffee, darlin'?"  He asks, picking up the coffee pot.

 

"No, thank you."

 

"Umm, Pamela, is somethin' botherin' you?"

 

"What?"

 

"I asked if somethin' is botherin' you.  You've been unusually quiet."

 

"No, I'm fine,"  Pamela says.  

 

Justin looks at his watch.  "Well, I'd best be goin'.  I've got an early meetin' this mornin' with Ted Cooper, a local record producer.  Darlin', why don't you come down to the office around 1 o'clock, and I'll take you to lunch?"

 

"I'm sorry, I can't today.  I'm having lunch with my mother."

 

"Oh.  Well, give Afton my best,"  Justin says as the doorbell rings.  "I'll get that on my way out."

 

"I'll walk you to the door,"  says Pamela.  She and Justin get up from the table.  Justin puts his arm around her and the two walk into the living room and to the door together.  

 

"I'll try to be home early this evenin', and we can have a nice romantic dinner,"  Justin says, kissing his wife as they reach the door.  "I love you,"  he says, the doorbell ringing a second time.

 

"I love you, too."

 

Justin smiles and kisses Pamela again.  Then he opens the door to find a young man there.  "Can I help you?"  Justin asks.

 

"Justin Randall Ewing?"  The young man asks.

 

"Yes, that's me,"  Justin replies.  

 

"This is for you,"  the young man says, handing Justin a sealed envelope.

 

"What's this?"

 

"A summons.  Have a nice day, Mr. Ewing,"  the young man says, and quickly walks away.

 

Justin quickly rips open the envelope and looks at the letter inside.  

 

"Justin, what's it about?"

 

"Oh my God,"  Justin says with a sigh.  "Unbelievable."

 

"What?"  Pamela asks.

 

"Lila and Jill are contesting my father's will.  They're goin' to court, seekin' their share of J.R.'s estate."

 

Pamela looks at him with a worried expression as Justin tries to process this news.

  Jasmine Cory walks into the living room at Cass's apartment to answer the ringing doorbell.  She opens the door and John Ross angrily storms in.  "Your Mama here?"  He demands to know.

 

"Hey, you can't just come barging in here like that,"  Jasmine says.

 

"I asked if Lila is here!"

 

"Yes, I'm here, John Ross,"  Lila says, walking into the living room.  

 

"What in the HELL do you think you're doin'?"  John Ross asks.

 

"I assume you got my little summons,"  Lila says with a slight smile.

 

"You think this is funny?  Lady, you just started somethin' you're gonna wish you hadn't.  Now, you listen to me...."

 

"No, YOU listen!  You started this, little brother.  All I wanted was to find my family, and get to know them.  All I wanted was to be a part of a family, but you wouldn't have that, would you?  Ever since I first came to Southfork after I found out that J.R. Ewing was my father, you've tried to get rid of me.  You've treated me like common trailer trash."

 

"I call 'em as I see 'em,"  John Ross says.

 

"You get the hell out of here right now,"  Lila angrily says.

 

"I'm not goin' anywhere until we settle this right here, and right now.  You think you're gonna waltz in here and take what's MINE?  Lady, I can promise you that aint  EVER gonna happen.  And how dare you drag Jill into this."

 

"Well, she obviously feels the same way I do.  And we're about to show you that we can get down and dirty just like you can.  Now get out of this apartment."

 

"Like I said, I'm not goin' anywhere,"  John Ross says, taking a step toward her.  

 

"Oh, yes, you are,"  Lila says.  "Jasmine, call buildin' security and ask them to come up here.  I have some trash I need taken out."

 

"Gladly, Mom,"  Jasmine says, picking up the phone.

 

 

"I'm goin',"  John Ross says.  "For now.  "But I can promise you.........I'll see you in hell before I give up a damned thing to you.  And the same thing goes for my other so called sister, too."  John Ross walks to the door and starts to leave.  He pauses and turns back to look at Lila.  "You'd best be ready for a fight that's gonna make Vietnam look like a love-in."

 

"Bring it on,"  Lila says.

 

John Ross looks at her angrily, then looks at Jasmine, and leaves.  

 

"What a JERK!"  Jasmine says.

 

"Jerk is too tame a word for him."

 

"Mom, I can understand why you're doing this.  But do you really think you can win your case?"

 

"Who knows?  But even if I don't, there are other ways to get what I want........which is John Ross brought to his knees."

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

 

John Ross walks into Ewing Oil a little while later, still fuming from his confrontation with Lila. "Sly, get Jay Smithfield on the phone and tell him to get his tail over here,"  he says as he passes by Sly's desk.

 

"Sure, John Ross, but, do you want to talk to him?"

 

"No, just tell him to get over here right now!"  John Ross says, then storms into his office, slamming the door behind him.  Sly and Sally exchange curious looks, both secretaries wondering what's got their boss so angry.

Southern Methodist University....

  Alex and Bridget come out of Dallas Hall on the campus of SMU.  "You wanna meet for coffee after our next class?"  Bridget asks.

 

"Yeah, I'd love to,"  replies Alex.  "Meet you back here in an hour."

 

"You bet,"  Bridget says.  She kisses him, then walks away.  

 

As Alex starts down the steps of Dallas Hall, he looks and sees Shawn standing in front of the building, waiting for him.  Alex pauses for a few seconds and looks at his former best friend turned enemy, and approaches him.  "What

"Sure, I'll get to the point,"  Shawn says.  "That offer I made you a while back.......I'm making it again.  I'm gonna need somebody to help me run Westar, Alex, and I want that someone to be you."

 

"You've gotta be kidding."

 

"No, I'm not.  Alex, with me, you'd be running half of Westar.  At Ewing Oil, what are you?  Nothing but John Ross's errand boy.  Think about it.......two young bloods from the two most powerful families in Dallas.  A year from now, we could be running this whole damned town.  We could own it, Alex.  Jeremy Wendell's grandson and J.R. Ewing's grandson.  The most powerful alliance in Dallas history."

 

Alex looks at him and laughs.  "Y'know you are beyond belief.  After everything that's happened, and after the way you attacked Ewing Oil and my family, do you really think I'm gonna just abandoned the Ewings for you and Westar?  You're really delusional, Shawn.  All that power and money has gone to your head, and one day, you're gonna be in for one hell of a hard fall.  So my answer to your little offer is.......you can take it and shove it up your ass."

 

Alex's harsh words enrage Shawn.  As Alex starts to walk away from him, Shawn calls after him.  "Alex," he says.  

 

Alex pauses and then turns back to face him.  

 

 "Smithfield, just what the hell are you tellin' me here?"  John Ross asks, meeting with Jay in his office at Ewing Oil. "That you can't......or WON'T help me with this?"

 

"John Ross, I'm sorry, but I simply cannot represent you in this case,"  Jay says.

 

"Well, why not?  Smithfield And Bennett has been handling Ewing business since the 1930s, and now you're tellin' me you can't take my case?"

 

"Because, not only is Cass Winthrop my partner in the firm, but he's also handling Lila Winthrop's case against you.  And, there's also the fact that Jill, the other plaintiff in this case, is my ex-wife.  It would be a double conflict of interest.  I'm sorry, I just can't do it.  But I'll be happy to recommend you another good attorney in corporate law.  In fact, one of the best attorneys I know is my cousin, Chad Bennett.  He lives and practices down in Houston, but I'm sure I could persuade him to come to Dallas to handle your case."

 

"Chad Bennett?"  John Ross asks.  "On your Mama's side, huh?"

 

"Yes, he's my Mom's brother's son."

 

"So, Kyle Bennett was his granddaddy, too?"

 

"That's right,"  replies Jay.

 

"Then, how come it wouldn't be a conflict of interest for him to take my case, since he's a Bennett?"

 

"Because Chad isn't affiliated with our family's law firm.  He never has been.  He went off to Harvard Law School, and after graduation, he came back to Texas and set up his practice in Houston.  He's been there ever since."

 

John Ross nods.  "Alright, I'd appreciate if you'd give your cousin a call.  He's good, you say?"

 

"One of the best.  I'll call him right now."  Jay takes his cell phone from his pocket and dials his cousin's number.  After the third ring, he answers.  "Chad, hi, this is Jay.  Oh, I'm doin' fine.  Yeah, the family's all doin' great, too.  Listen, the reason I'm calling is, I have a case here in Dallas that I'd really like for you to come up and handle, if you have the time.  It's a case involving the Ewings.  Yeah, Smithfield And Bennett does normally handle legal matters for the Ewings, but this case involves a conflict of interest.  My new partner in the firm, Cass Winthrop, is handling the case for the other side, and, one of the plaintiffs in the case is Jill.  Yes, my ex-wife, Jill.  So I thought of you and recommended you to John Ross Ewing.  So, you think you'd be interested?"  Jay is silent for a moment while he listens to his cousin on the other end of the line.  "Great, and you're sure you have the time?  Chad, that's be great.  Yes.  Just give me a call when you get to town.  I can't wait to see you, either.  It HAS been a long time.  Okay, Chad.  I'll talk to you in a couple days.  Bye."  Jay ends the call and puts his phone away.

 

"So, is he gonna handle it?"  John Ross asks.

 

"Yeah.  He'll be in Dallas day after tomorrow."

 

John Ross nods.  "Good," he says, then turns to look out the window at the city skyline.

Ewing Records....later....

  John Ross steps off the elevator and walks into Ewing Records a short while later.  He approaches the desk of the receptionist.  "Excuse me, I need to see my brother, if he's free."

 

"Of course, Mr. Ewing, I'll let Justin know you're here,"  the young woman says.

 

John Ross nods.  

 

The receptionist picks up her phone and buzzes Justin's office.  "Justin, your brother is here to see you."  She listens for Justin's response, then puts the phone down and looks at John Ross.  "Justin will be right out."

 

"Thank ya, darlin',"  John Ross says.  He walks over and looks at some photos on the wall. 

 

A few seconds later, Justin comes out of his office.  "John Ross, come in."

 

John Ross walks into the office and Justin closes the door behind him.  "I guess you got one of these little papers, too?"  John Ross asks, showing Justin his summons.

 

"Yeah, I got one this mornin'."

 

"Can you believe the nerve of those two women?  Lila Winthrop, I can understand, but JILL?  I never thought she'd turn on us like this!"

 

"I'm not sure exactly sure I'd call it turnin' on us,"  says Justin.

 

"Then what the hell would you call suin' us for part of our inheritance?  Because that's what they're doin'?"

 

Justin sighs.  "Yeah, I can't understand Jill gettin' involved in this, either.  She sure doesn't need the money."

 

"It's Lila,"  John Ross says.  "That woman has been nothin' but trouble ever since she came to Dallas."

 

"Well, maybe if you hadn't antagonized her the way you did, none of this would be happening."

 

"What?  You're blamin' ME for this?"

 

"Well, it sure as hell itn't MY fault!"  Justin says,  "John Ross, all Lila wanted was to be accepted as part of our fam'ly, but you couldn't do that, could you?  You treated her like crap from the minute you found out she was our sister. Same way you treated me when I came to Dallas."

 

"Alright, look, it's not gonna do any good for us to be at each others' throats like this,"  John Ross says.  "Right now, what we gotta do is band together to fight for what's ours.  I don't know about you, little brother, but I'll be damned if I'm gonna let Lila Winthrop or Jill Anderson take what's mine!"

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

 

 "I still can't get over how beautiful it is out here,"  Jasmine says, she and Conner riding horses on the Krebbs ranch late that afternoon.  

 

"Yeah, this is definitely a little piece of Heaven,"  says Conner.

 

"Y'know, I've been a city girl my whole life, but I could really get use to life on a ranch."

 

Conner laughs at the girl's comment.

 

"What's so funny?"  Jasmine asks.

 

"It's just that I had a vision in my mind of you livin' and workin' on a ranch."

 

"Hey, now, I could do it."

 

"Jasmine, visiting a ranch is a whole lot different from livin' on one.  It's a lot of hard work.  Something I doubt you're use to."

 

"Okay, go ahead and make fun,"  Jasmine says.  "But I could do it."

 

"Well, I think we'd better head back,"  says Conner.

 

"Why?  I thought we were gonna ride out to the pond."

 

"I don't like the look of that sky.  If we don't head back now, I think we might get drenched, and I just felt a drop of rain."

 

"I didn't feel anything,"  Jasmine says.  No sooner are the words out of her mouth than it begins to drizzle.  "Oh, no, you're right."

 

Conner smiles.  "Livin' on a ranch, you learn to tell when it's about to pour.  I don't think we'll be able to make it back to the stables.  Follow me.  There's a little cabin near here, across the property line on Southfork where we can wait this out."  The two take off riding toward Southfork as the rain begins to fall a little harder.

The cabin at Southfork....a couple of minutes later....

 

By the time Conner and Jasmine reach the cabin not far over the property line separating Ray's ranch from Southfork, the sky had turned ominously dark and the rain was pouring.  Reaching the cabin, the two quickly dismount the horses.  Conner ties them up, and he and Jasmine run for the cabin.  Finding it unlocked, they go inside, but by the time, both are drenched.  

 

"Good thing this place was unlocked,"  Jasmine says.  "How'd you know it would be?"

 

"This old cabin is never locked.  I don't even think there's a key for the door."

 

"God, it's cold."

 

"I'll get us a fire started and we can get warm,"  says Conner.  

 

"Sounds cozy."

 

Conner begins gathering some fire wood from the stack beside the fireplace.  Placing the wood in the fireplace, he locates a box of matches on the mantle and lights the fire.  

 

"Wow, a handy box of matches just sitting there waiting for us,"  says Jasmine.  

 

Conner smiles.  "Yeah, I guess they were left here for just such an occasion.  Never know when you're gonna be out here on the range, a long way from any other shelter and get caught in a sudden rainstorm, or, just wanna stop here, light a fire, and get warm on a cold winter day."

 

"There are some blankets on the bed.  Maybe we should get out of these wet clothes and dry them by the fire," Jasmine says.  She unbuttons and removes her blouse.

 Conner looks at Jasmine as she takes off her top blouse, revealing a very low cut under shirt.  "Ummm, yeah, I guess we should,"  he says, awkwardly, staring at her.

 

Jasmine looks at him with a seductive smile as he watches her undress.  "Well, Conner,"  she says.  "You'd better get out of those wet clothes before you catch pneumonia."

 

"Uhh, yeah,"  says a nervous Conner.  He takes off his shirt, and tosses it onto the back of a chair.  He looks at Jasmine again. 

 

Jasmine moves closer to Conner and places her hands on his chest.  The two begin kissing passionately, and slowly make their way over to the small bed sitting in one corner of the little cabin.  They sit down on the bed, still kissing.  Jasmine reaches down and unbuckles Conner's belt, then unzips his pants.  She pushes him down on the bed on his back and gets on top of him.  Jasmine begins kissing him again, first his lips, then his neck.  She makes her way down to Conner's chest and stomach, kissing him as Conner gets an awkward, uncomfortable look on his face.  As Jasmine begins to slowly remove his pants, the look on Conner's face becomes even more uncomfortable.  

 

"Jasmine, stop,"  he says.

 

She looks up at him.  "What?"

 

"I........I think we should stop."

 

"Stop?"  Asks a stunned Jasmine.  "But why?"

 

"I just.........don't think we should do this, that's all,"  Conner says. "I'm sorry.  I think the rain's letting up.  We should start back now."

 

"Conner, this is the second....... or is it the third time, we've almost made love and you've pulled away from me.  What is it?  Do you NOT find me attractive at all?"

 

"Jasmine, of course I find you attractive.  You're incredibly beautiful,"  Conner says as he stands to his feet.  

 

 

 

 

"Then what IS it?"  Jasmine asks.  "Conner, I am VERY attracted to you, and I want you.  Why do you keep pulling away from me like this every time we get close to having sex?  Is it because we're distantly related?  Because if it is, it doesn't bother me.  Look at Dylan and Ashley.  It doesn't bother them."

 

 

 

"No, that's not it,"  Conner says.  

 

"Then what is it?  Is it because you have some moral objection to premarital sex or something?"

 

"Jasmine, please........just get dressed and let's get out of here."

 

"Okay, FINE!"  Jasmine angrily says.  She gets off the bed and begins to put her clothes on.  "Y'know, I really thought the two of us had something special.  I guess I was wrong."

 

"No, Jasmine, you're not wrong,"  Conner says.  "Look, it's just not the right time.  We haven't known each other that long.  Do we really need to rush into sex to prove that we care for each other?  Jasmine, I do care for you, a LOT.  But when we do finally make love, I want it to be right.  I want it to be special.  Not here, in some dark, dirty cabin in the middle of a pasture on Southfork because we got stranded in a rainstorm."  He grabs his shirt and puts it on.

 

"Is that why you stopped the last time?"  Jasmine asks.  "Because that time we were in your bedroom and you didn't wanna make love then, either."

 

 

 

Conner reaches out to touch Jasmine's shoulders, but she pulls away from him.  He watches her with a sad expression as she continues dressing with her back to him.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Southfork....that night....

 Bobby is pouring himself a drink in the living room at Southfork after dinner that evening when Christopher walks into the room.  "Dad,"  Christopher says.  "Mind pouring me one?"

 

"Not at all.  Missed you at dinner,"  Bobby says.

 

"Yeah, I had dinner with Ryan Benson in town."

 

"DOCTOR Ryan Benson?"

 

"That's right.  Things have been so tense between me and Courtney lately, I just needed to talk to Ryan, but not in his office.  Where is everyone tonight?  It's like a morgue around here."

 

"Well, you're right about that,"  Bobby says, handing his son a glass of bourbon.  "Ann is upstairs putting Logan to bed.  Lucas and Heather took the boys to a movie, and I guess John Ross and Krystina are already up in their room. I guess Alex went out to dinner with Bridget, and, Courtney is your room."

 

Christopher sighs as he takes a sip of his bourbon.  

 

"Son, I'd hoped that things would be better between you and Courtney by now,"  says Bobby.

 

"So did I,"  Christopher says.  "When Courtney and I talked about some of our problems, I though we had worked things out.  But she's still so jealous of my friendship with Lucia, that it blinds her to everything else, including how much I love her and our life together."

 

"Well, Christopher, can ya blame her?  Ever since Lucia and the boys have been here stayin' in the cottage, you've been spending a lot of time over there.  Whenever Lucia needs somethin', you go runnin'."

 

"Dad, don't start this again.  We've already been through it, and you know that........"  Christopher pauses.

 

"That what, son?"  Bobby asks.  "That you still feel obligated to Lucia and her sons because of her husband's death?"

 

Christopher looks at his father.  "I admit, that's how it started.  But now, Lucia is a friend of mine.  She and the boys are all alone, Dad.  What am I supposed to do, just kick them off Southfork and never see them again?"

 

"No one is askin' you to do that.  But Christopher, I have to wonder if there itn't more goin' on here than friendship."

 

"What?  Dad, of course that's all.  There's nothing going on between Lucia Trevino and me."

 

"There may not be anything physical between you,"  Bobby says.  "Maybe not even consciously.  But can you look me in the eye and tell me honestly that you don't feel somethin' for Lucia Trevino that goes beyond friendship?  Can you tell me that you're not attracted to her?"

 

Christopher looks at his father, and remains silent.  After a couple of seconds, he lowers his head.  

 

"You don't have to answer,"  Bobby says.  "But you need to at least be honest with yourself.  Your marriage might depend on it."  Bobby puts his glass down on the bar, then walks out of the room, leaving Christopher alone to think about what his father had just said.

The Krebbs Ranch....the next morning....

  Conner steps onto the diving board at the pool at the Krebbs home early the next morning and dives into the pool.  He swims across the length of the pool, turns and swims back to the diving board, and then turns and swims back across the pool again.  Dylan comes out of the house and onto the patio as Conner climbs out of the pool.  

 

"Hey,"  Dylan says.  "Mind some company?"

 

"No, of course not,"  Conner replies.  

 

"Conner, what's bothering you?"  Dylan asks.  

 

"What makes you think anything's bothering me?"

 

"Because we're brothers, and you ACT like you're mad at the world this morning.  Last night, too.  You and Jasmine have a fight yesterday?"

 "I really appreciate you meeting me this early in the morning,"  Jasmine says as she and Ashley take their seats outside the Campus Cafe.

 

"Oh, no problem at all,"  says Ashley.  "I don't have class for another hour, so I have some time."

 

"Well, I'm glad we could get together.  To tell you the truth, I really wasn't sure you'd even wanna see me, with this lawsuit my Mom has started."

 

"Oh, come on, that has nothing to do with us."

 

"Even if you could lose part of your inheritance because of it?"  Jasmine asks.

 

"The money doesn't mean that much to me.  Besides, I think your Mom should get what's coming to her."

 

Jasmine smiles.  "Well, thank you for saying that."

 

"When you called, you sounded like you really needed to talk about something,"  Ashley says.  "Is something wrong?"

 

 

Bobby, Ann, Sue Ellen, Catlin, Justin, Pamela, Alex, Clay, and Ashley are gathered in the den at Southfork having drinks that evening.  

 

"Sue Ellen, would you like another club soda?"  Bobby asks.

 

"Yes, thank you, Bobby."

 

"Did John Ross say why he wanted to see all of us here tonight?" Clay asks.

 

"My guess is it's about Lila and Jill's court case to challenge J.R.'s will,"  Bobby says.

 

"Yeah, but that doesn't have anything to do with me,"  says Clay.  

 

"You're J.R.'s grandson, just like me,"  says Alex.  

 

"I can't believe that Jill and Lila would go through with something like this,"  Sue Ellen says.  

 

"Bobby, do you think there's a chance they could win?"  Catlin asks.

 

"Well, Catlin, I don't know.  Unfortunately, the law is beyond my expertise."

 

John Ross and Krystina walk into the room.  "Good.  Glad you're all here,"  John Ross says.  

 

"John Ross, we all assume you called us here to talk about Lila and Jill's court case?"  Sue Ellen says.

 

"That's right.  Most of the people who would be directly affected by this case are here, and......."  John Ross pauses as he looks at Catlin.  "...........a couple who AREN'T.  Primarily, J.R.'s heirs and those who would stand to lose if Lila Winthrop and Jill win this ridiculous case of theirs."

 

"I'd hardly call it ridiculous,"  Pamela says.  "If it was, then a high profile lawyer like Cass Winthrop wouldn't have taken the case."

 

"Pamela, do I have to remind you that Winthrop is Lila's ex-husband.  And she's livin' with him now, so I doubt she could ask him anything that he wouldn't do.  Now Justin and I have already talked about this earlier.  I've got a real good lawyer comin' to handle the case, since Jay Smithfield couldnt do it because of some conflict of interest or somethin'."

 

"So who's the lawyer?"  Bobby asks.

 

"Chad Bennett.  He's Jay's cousin."

 

"Kyle Bennett's grandson,"  Bobby says.  

 

"That's right."

 

"Chad Bennett, I've heard of him,"  says Sue Ellen.  "He has an excellent reputation."

 

"Bennett is gonna be in my office tomorrow at 1 o'clock,"  John Ross says.  "I'd like for you all to be there.  We've got to band together to beat Lila and Jill."

 

 

 

Clay smiles.  "John Ross, you really are something.  You've been trying to get me out of your life ever since I set foot in Dallas two years ago, and you'd give your right arm to get me out of Ewing Oil.  But now, you need me for this little court case, so you've changed your tune about me.  And as soon as this court battle is all over, I'm sure you'll go right back to treating me like an outsider."

 

 

 

 "Clay, let's get somethin' straight, here.  I don't need you in this, so don't go thinkin' you're more important than you are.  But you do stand to lose out if these two win this case, and given how unpredictable the law is, they just might.  We're stronger if we all stand together, but, make no mistake......you are NOT essential to the cause."

 

"Look, I'd rather not even be involved in this," says Ashley.

 

"Well, darlin', I hate to be the one to break this to you, but you ARE involved in this.  We all are."

 

"Yeah, thanks to you,"  says Clay.

 

John Ross turns to look at him.  "What the hell's that supposed to mean?"

 

"I'm pretty sure Lila wouldn't have done this if you hadn't done what you did to her at the Ewing Rodeo.  You have this way about you, John Ross, of antagonizing people to the point where they wanna lash out at you.  Now, you've dragged all of us into this feud between you and Lila.  Personally, I hope she takes you for a ride and gets at least half of your inheritance."

 

"Well, the Beaumont branch of the family stands to lose out, too, Clay.  Or have you forgotten James's will that he made 15 years ago, that left an inheritance to all his current, and future children?  And since you came along and was proven by DNA to be James's son, you inherited part of his estate, which was part of the inheritance that J.R. left to James in HIS will.  So if Lila and Jill win this, you might even have to give up at least half of YOUR inheritance."

 

Clay smiles.  "It'd be worth giving up that money just to see you lose,"  he says, then walks out of the room.  Ashley follows her brother out.

 

"Now, how the hell do you like that?"  John Ross asks.

 

"And THAT, John Ross, is why we're in this mess to begin with,"  Justin says.  "Because you treat everyone like an outsider instead of like family.  And its why one day..........you're liable to end up all alone.  Pamela, let's get outta here."  He and Pamela start to leave.  

 

"Damn it, Justin, I am TRYIN' to keep those two women from comin' in here and takin' what's ours!"  John Ross says, following them into the foyer.  

 

Justin stops and turns back to face his brother.  "OURS?  John Ross, I remember when you didn't think of me as family, either.  Clay is right.  You consider us family when you need us, but any other time.........we're outsiders."

 

"Justin, you know that's not true.  I do NOT treat you like an outsider."

 

"Maybe not anymore,  But then there was that Westar stock Jill sold me that pissed you off."

 

"Okay, so what the hell are you gonna do?"  John Ross asks.  "Side with THEM?"

 

"No.  Don't worry.  I'm with you on this.  But that doesn't mean I don't still think we're in this mess because of you. If you'd accepted Lila into this family......."

 

"I will NEVER accept that woman as part of my family,"  John Ross angrily says.  

 

Justin looks at him and sighs.  "Come on, Pamela,"  he says.  "Let's get the hell outta here."

 

"Gladly,"  Pamela says.  She and Justin walk out, leaving John Ross angry that his family is blaming him for this.

Ewing Oil....the next day....

 Sly buzzes John Ross's office.  "John Ross, Jay Smithfield and Chad Bennett are here."

 

"Thanks, Sly.  Show Mr. Smithfield and Mr. Bennett in."

 

A moment later, Sly brings Jay and his cousin Chad Bennett into John Ross's office, where John Ross, Sue Ellen, Justin, Clay, and Ashley are waiting, .  "Can I get you gentlemen anything?"  Sly asks.

 

"No, thanks, Sly,"  Jay replies.

 

"Thank ya, Sly, that'll be all,"  John Ross says, walking over to the two attorneys.  Sly leaves the office.  

 

"John Ross, everyone,"  Jay says.  "I'd like you all to meet my cousin, Chad Bennett."

 

"Mr. Bennett, we appreciate you comin',"  John Ross says, shaking hands with the attorney.

 

"Mr. Ewing,"  Chad says.  "Please, call me Chad."

 

"Alright, Chad, and my friends call me John Ross.  Chad, I'd like you to meet my mother, Sue Ellen Ewing."

 

"Mrs. Ewing, it's a pleasure."

 

Sue Ellen smiles as she shakes his hand.  "It's very nice to meet you, Chad.  I knew your grandfather, Kyle Bennett, quite well.  I have to say you look a lot like him."

 

Chad smiles.  "Well, thank you, I'll take that as a compliment."

 

"Chad, this is my brother, Justin,"  says John Ross.  "My niece, Ashley Beaumont.  And.........that's Clay Beaumont."

 

"I'm John Ross's nephew,"  Clay says.  "A fact he tends to sometimes forget."

 

"It's a pleasure to meet all of you,"  says Chad.  "My cousin Jay has filled me in on the details of your case."

 

"And what do you think the chances are that Lila and Jill could actually win?"  Justin asks.

 

"Their chances are slim.......but not zero."

 

"Meaning what?"  John Ross asks.

 

"Meaning that, if the judge feels that your two sisters deserve a share of your father's estate, then, he COULD rule in their favor.  The unusual thing about this case is that, your father, J.R. Ewing, died without ever knowing of the existence of his daughter, Lila Winthrop.  Now, from what Jay tells me, J.R. did learn of his daughter Jill before his death."

 

"That's right,"  says John Ross.  "Not long before he died, J.R. found out that Kimberly Cryder had given birth to his daughter 25 years earlier.  He had planned to use Jill's and her mother's connection to Westar to gain a foothold into that comp'ny."  

 

"And, did your father ever tell you that you had a half-sister before he died?"  Chad asks.

 

"No."

 

"And how'd you find out?"

 

"Harris Ryland was investigating my father,"  John Ross replies.  "He was havin' J.R. followed.  Ryland found out that J.R. had learned he and Kimberly Cryder shared a daughter.  He had a whole file on J.R. that fell into my possession quite some time after my father's death."

 

"Ryland gave you the file?"  Chad asks.

 

"No.  His daughter Emma did."

 

"Is there any chance that your father would have drawn up a new will, including your sister Jill?"  Chad asks.

 

"Yes, it's possible,"  Justin says.

 

"And what about Lila Winthrop?  From what Jay has told me, she arrived in Dallas, and learned of her connection to the Ewings through Ancestry.Com?"

 

"Yes, that's right,"  Clay says.  

 

"My son, Alex, was interested in researchin' the Ewing family history,"  John Ross says.  "So he took one of those Ancestry DNA tests.  And, Lila Winthrop had taken one, too, because she wanted to find out who her father was."

 

"And Lila and Alex matched,"  Sue Ellen says.  

 

"So, there IS actual DNA proof of Lila Winthrop's blood ties to the Ewings?"

 

"Yes, there is,"  says Sue Ellen.  

 

Chad sighs.  "That could be a problem."

 

"How so?"  John Ross asks.

 

"Well, if there were no proof that Lila is J.R. Ewing's daughter, then we could have the court order a DNA test.  But with proof already existing, that's definitely one thing in Lila Winthrop's favor.  The judge could concede that, had he lived and discovered that he had another daughter, he would have made a new will including not only Jill, but Lila as well.  And if J.R. left anything behind indicating that he had planned to change his will after he found out that Jill Cryder was his daughter..........that will be another win in their favor."

 

"If he left anything behind, like what?"  John Ross asks.

 

"Letters, any kind of correspondence with his attorney.  Even journal entries written in J.R.'s own hand.  I suggest you go through all of your father's papers and try to find anything indicating that he had any plans to change his will and include Jill."

 

"That's going to be nearly impossible,"  says Sue Ellen.  "J.R. must have left behind literally thousands of papers."

 

"Well, we're only concerned with those near the end of his life,"  Chad says.  "Anything I'd say, oh, the last month or so before J.R. died.  The only stuff that would be relevant is anything J.R. wrote AFTER discovering that he shared a daughter with Kimberly Cryder."

 

"And what do we do if we find somethin' like that?"  Justin asks.

 

"Contact me immediately, and we'll decide how to proceed with it.  In the meantime, I'd like to get some background information on both Jill and Lila.  Jay, since you were married to Jill, you should be able to provide me with a lot of info on her."

 

"Chad, if it's all the same, I'd rather stay out of this,"  says Jay.  "I recommended you to the Ewings, but, other than that, I really shouldn't have anything else to do with this case.  In fact, I probably shouldn't even be here listening to this right now.  So, if you all will excuse me, I have plenty of cases of my own to deal with back at the office.  Chad, I'll talk to you soon."

 

"Yeah, you bet. I'll give you a call tonight,"  Chad says.

 

"Jay, thank you for getting your cousin here,"  Sue Ellen says.  

 

"No problem.  I'll see you all later,"  Jay says, then leaves.

 

"Alright,"  says Chad.  "Now I'd like to get all the background information I can on Jill Anderson and Lila Winthrop."

 

John Ross looks at the attorney and nods, a devious look on his face.

Ewing Oil....late afternoon....

 "Bum, come in,"  John Ross says, welcoming the private investigator into his office late that afternoon.  "Want a drink?"

 

"I'd love one,"  Bum replies.

 

John Ross walks to his bar and pours two glasses of bourbon.  "You get started on that job I asked you to do for me?"

 

"I got started right after you called me."

 

"And?  Find out any more about Lila Winthrop?"

 

"John Ross, everything I found out about the lady when I did my background check on her before, you already know."

 

John Ross hands a glass of bourbon to Bum.  "And what about her fam'ly?  Her two kids, Jasmine and Cody?"

 

"It's Cory,"  Bum says, correcting him.

 

"Oh, yes, Cory.  Anything on them?"

 

"The girl, Jasmine Rachel Cassandra Cory, is Lila's daughter by Matthew Cory, president of Cory Publishing in Bay City.  Jasmine stands to inherit a substantial fortune from her father, and right now she has a very sizable trust fund."

 

"And the boy?"  John Ross asks.

 

"Cory, Lila's son with Cass Winthrop.  I'm still checking on him."

 

"Well, hurry it up, would you?  This case might get put on the calendar soon, and I need somethin' I can use.  You're also checking on Winthrop too, right?"

 

"Yes.  John Ross, what do you hope to gain by this?  By digging into the lives of Lila's children and her ex-husband?"

 

"I don't know.  But at this point, I'll take anything I can use to my advantage.  So hurry this up, Bum.  Make this top priority.  I wanna know anything and everything about not only Lila Winthrop, but also her two ex-husbands, and her two kids."

 

"I'll be in touch,"  Bum says.

 

"Soon, Bum.  REAL soon.  I need this information yesterday."

 

Bum nods, then leaves the office.  John Ross takes a sip of his bourbon and smiles.  

Perry's Steakhouse And Grille.....night....

 Alex, Bridget, Clay, and Michelle are having dinner that evening at Perry's, and Alex and Clay are discussing an upcoming business deal for Ewing Oil.  "Girls, if everything goes Alex's way, he might just become the new vice president of Ewing Oil,"  Clay says with a smile.

 

"Clay, what are you talking about?"  Bridget asks.

 

"You mean Alex didn't tell you?" Clay asks.  "Well, Bridget, your boyfriend here is being given a lot more responsibility at Ewing Oil.  In fact, tomorrow, he's handling an important meeting all on his own."

 

"Really?"  Bridget asks.

 

"Alex, that's great," says Michelle.  

 

Alex smiles.  "Thank you, thank you."

 

"Alex, why didn't you tell me?"  Bridget asks.

 

"Well, it's nothing, really.  John Ross is tied up all day, so he's gonna let me handle a meeting for him.  Lately, he's been giving me a lot more responsibility at the office."

 

"Yeah, ever since you secured the purchase of that Murdock farm,"  Clay says. 

 

"By the way, Clay, umm, don't let that slip out around my grandmother.  Remember, she's not supposed to know anything about that."

 

"Don't worry, man, my lips are sealed."

 

"By the way, Clay, I'd really like for you to sit in with me on that meeting tomorrow with Gantry,"  Alex says.  

 

"What?"  A stunned Clay asks.  "You want ME in on that meeting with you?"

 

"Sure, why not?  I could use your experience.  You did run your own oil company, while I've never even conducted an important meeting like this."

 

"John Ross wouldn't have trusted you with this if he didn't think you could handle it, Alex."

 

"Knowing my Dad, he's giving me some kind of a test."

 

"Clay, if Alex wants you in on his meeting, why not take him up on it?"  Michelle asks.  "And who knows, maybe this will lead to bigger and better things for you at Ewing Oil, too."

 

"Yeah, like John Ross would ever let that happen,"  Clay says.  

 

"My father is fair, Clay,"  Alex says.  "You prove your worth around Ewing Oil, and he'll give you a chance."

 

 

"Well, now, just look who's here,"  Shawn says as he walks up to their table with a young woman, obviously his date.  "The two stooges and their dates."

 

"Wow, I thought this place only let in a better class of people,"  Clay says.  "I guess I was wrong."

 

"Apparently so, since they let the four of you in here," Shawn says.  

 

"Smith, why don't you get lost?"  Alex asks.

 

"It's a free country.  I go where I want.  In fact, I may just buy this restaurant after I inherit all that money when my grandfather's will is read.  And my first act as the new owner would be to ban anyone named Ewing or Beaumont from eating here.  Y'know......make it a classier place."

Clay looks at Shawn's beautiful date.  "I really feel sorry for the lovely young lady you're with.  She has no idea what she's getting herself into."

 

"Oh, I think Kayla knows everything she needs to know,"  Shawn says.

 

"I happen to be Mr. Smith's new secretary."

 

"Secretary?"  Clay asks.  "Yeah, right."

 

"Well, honey, if you're smart, you'll turn tail and run screaming for the hills,"  says Michelle.

 

"Kayla, don't listen to these losers,"  Shawn says.  "Especially Michelle.  She's just bitter that she left me for this guy she's with her tonight.  She gave up a soon to be billionaire for an office boy."

 

"Clay is three times the man you'll EVER be,"  Michelle.  "And ten times the lover you could ever hope to be."

 

Bridget clears her throat.  "Michelle, that's a little too much information."

 

"Well, I guess anyone with as much experience as Clay has must seem like a better lover.  After all, he's, what? 28? Is Michelle the first time you've robbed the cradle, Clay, or have you sampled a few underage girls along the way?"

 

 Clay immediately springs to his feet to confront Shawn.  "You wanna say that to me again outside?"  He asks, people around them beginning to stare and take notice of the brewing confrontation.

 

"Anytime,"  Shawn says.

 

"Clay, don't, not here,"  Michelle says, grabbing him by the arm.

 

Alex stands from his seat and moves between Clay and Shawn.  "Look, Shawn, why don't you and your date just get the hell out of here before things get real ugly?  There are a lot of other restaurants in Dallas.  Find another one."  Alex says.

 

"I'm not going anywhere.  You Ewings think you own everything, don't you?  I'll take both of you on."

 

"Excuse me, is there a problem here?"  A young man, one of the restaurant's managers, asks, walking over to them.  

 

"No problem at all, Randy,"  Clay replies.  "Mr. Smith and the young lady were JUST leaving."

 

"Like I said, I'm not going anywhere,"  Shawn says, looking Clay in the eye.

 

"You've got two choices,"  Alex says.  "You can leave here on your own two feet........or Clay and I can see to it that you leave in an ambulance.  It's up to you."

 

"Shawn, please, let's just go,"  says Shawn's date, Kayla, pulling at his arm.

 

Shawn looks at Alex angrily, barely able to contain the rage building inside of him.  After a brief pause, he points his finger at Alex's face.  "This is FAR from over, Ewing.  You're REALLY gonna pay for this one.  Both you and your cradle robbing cousin here."  Shawn and Kayla start to leave, but Shawn looks at Alex again.  "I meant what I said the other day.  I'm gonna make Ewing Oil a bad memory, and you.......you're gonna wish you'd gone back to New York with your mama, because when I'm finished with you, not even she's gonna want what's left."

 

Alex starts toward Shawn, but Clay grabs him by the shoulder and holds him back.  The two Ewing cousins watch as their enemy turns and leaves the restaurant with his date while the restaurant manager tries to calm the other patrons down.  An all out war has been declared between the grandsons of J.R. Ewing and the grandson of Jeremy Wendell.

Clay's apartment....

 Clay angrily storms into his lavish apartment a short while later, followed by Kayla.  He heads straight for the bar, where he pours himself a drink.  "DAMN THEM!"  He yells.  "They're both gonna pay for that."

 

"Why did we come back here?"  Kayla asks.  "I thought we were gonna go out to dinner at another restaurant."

 

"I'm not in the mood,"  Shawn says.  "I lost my appetite, anyway."

 

"Well, I'm starving."

 

"Then go out to dinner by yourself, then!"

 

Kayla sighs.  "Well, I guess I may as well go home."

 

"No,"  Shawn says.  

 

"What?"

 

Shawn turns to look at her.  "I don't want you to go."

 

"You don't?  Why not?  It's obvious your mind still has a lot of that girl in it."

 

"That girl?"

 

"Yeah, the girl in the restaurant.  Your ex.  You're still carrying a torch for her."

 

"That's a joke.  The only feelings I have for Michelle McKinnon are contempt,"  Shawn says, walking over to her.  

 

"I still should go."

 

"No.  I want you to stay."

 

"Why?"  Kayla asks.  

 

Shawn looks at her for a few seconds, then begins kissing her.  He then looks at her.  "Does that answer your question?"

 

Kayla looks a him and smiles, and the two begin kissing again.  After a moment, they move to Shawn's bedroom, still locked in the kiss, and close the door behind them.

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

 Courtney and Christopher come out of the house and onto the patio as Bobby, Ann, Lucas, Heather, Michael, and Jacob are seated at the table having breakfast.  "Mornin',"  Ann greets them.

 

"Morning,"  Christopher says, he and Courtney taking their usual seats at the table.  

 

"Christopher, I have to move one of the herds over to section 20 today,"  Lucas says.  "You wanna help?"

 

"I can't today,"  Christopher replies.  "I promised Lucia I'd take her into Dallas to see about getting her a car."

 

Courtney looks at her husband.  "You're taking Lucia to buy a car?"

 

"Well, to shop around for one, anyway."

 

"And how's she gonna get the money to buy a car?  I thought she was broke."

 

Christopher lets out a deep sigh before answering.  "I'm getting her one," he finally says, his reply causing everyone at the table to look at him.

 

"You're buying Lucia Trevino a CAR?"  Asks an angry Courtney.  

 

"Courtney, you've been angry that I've been driving Lucia everywhere that she has to go when Miguel is working. Now, if she has her own vehicle, I won't have to drive her anymore."

 

"Great,"  Courtney says, annoyed.  

 

An uncomfortable and awkward silence follows the exchange.  Jacob lowers his head, saddened by the continued arguing between his mother and Christopher.

 

"Courtney, are you free for lunch today?"  Heather finally asks in an attempt to break the silence.

 

Courtney looks at her.  "Yes, as a matter of fact, I am."

 

"Good.  Why don't we drive into Braddock and have lunch at that new shopping center?  I've been dying to check it out."  Heather asks.  "I hear that Japanese restaurant they opened there is really great.  We can do some shopping and hang around until the boys get out of school."

 

"Yes, that sounds fine,"  Courtney says.  

 

"Mom, Dad, can Bryce come over today after school?"  Michael asks.  

 

"Yeah, I guess so,"  Heather replies.  

 

"Great."

 

John Ross, Krystina, and Alex come onto the patio.  "Alex, try not to let it bother you so much,"  Krystina tells her stepson.  

 

"I can't help it,"  says Alex.  "That guy just makes me see red."

 

"I know how you feel,"  John Ross says, taking his usual seat at the table.  "But don't worry.  We're gonna take care of that little problem soon enough."

 

"What's going on?"  Bobby asks.

 

"Yeah, what's got you so worked up?"  Lucas asks.

 

"I had another run in with Shawn last night,"  replies Alex.  "Clay and I took Bridget and Michelle to dinner at Perry's, and who should we run into but Shawn, being his usual despicable self."

 

"What happened?  Jacob asks.  "Did you get into a fight?"

 

"Not exactly, but we came close."

 

"Violence never solved anything,"  Ann says.  "I think most of us here at this table have learned that the hard way."

 

"Ann's right,"  Krystina says.  "Best thing to do is to just stay away from Shawn Smith."

 

A car drives up to Southfork and comes to a stop in the parking area.  "Now who can that be this early in the mornin'?"  Ann wonders.  

 

"I have no idea."

 

John Ross sighs.  "Last time we had an unexpected visitor durin' breakfast, it turned out to be that little summons.  Wonder what bad news this is."

 

Joseph Gioberti gets out of the car and walks over to the patio.

 

"It's Joseph,"  Jacob says.  He quickly gets up from his seat and rushes over to greet his biological father. 

 

"Jacob, what's up, my man?"  Joseph asks, greeting his son with a hug.

 

"Not much.  I didn't know you were coming.  Mom didn't tell me."

 

"That's because I didn't know,"  says Courtney.  "Joseph."

"I'm sorry, but no, Jacob,"  Christopher says.  "I don't think you need to miss any days of school now with the year almost over."

 

"Come on, Christopher, I'm only asking for one day to spend with my son," says Joseph.  

 

"Then you should've come on a weekend."

 

Courtney looks at Christopher, then at Joseph and Jacob.  "I don't see any harm in it,"  she says.  "Okay, Jacob, you can miss school today, but ONLY today."

 

The boy smiles.  "Thanks, Mom."

 

Christopher gives his wife and angry look, then walks away.  Watching this from the breakfast table, Bobby and Ann exchange worried looks.

 

"Courtney, thank you.  I hope that didn't make Christopher too angry,"  says Joseph.

 

"He'll get over it."

 

"Jacob, why don't you go upstairs and change out of your school clothes?"  Joseph asks.

 

"Sure.  What are we gonna do today?"

 

"Gee, I dunno.  What do you wanna do?"

 

"Putt putt golf?"

 

Joseph laughs.  "Okay, we'll spend the morning playing putt putt golf.  And, then maybe this afternoon we'll go back to my hotel and go for a swim."

 

"Okay.  Be right back,"  Jacob says.  The boy quickly runs into the house, Joseph watching him.

 

"Wow,  I just can't believe how much he's grown,"  Joseph says.  "And his voice has changed.  It's so deep, he sounds like a grown man now."

 

"Yeah, he's changed quite a bit since you last saw him.  Umm, Joseph, you remember Christopher's family?  His father, Bobby, his stepmother Ann?"

 

"Of course, I do.  It's nice to see you all again."

 

"Joseph,"  Bobby says.

 

"Mom, since Jacob gets to skip school today, can I skip, too?"  Michael asks.

 

"Nothin' doin',"  Heather says.  "YOU, Mister, are goin' to school.  Now come on, get your stuff so we can go."

 

"Joseph, would you like some breakfast?  Or some coffee while you're waitin' on Jacob?"  Ann asks.

 

"Thanks, Mrs. Ewing, I already had breakfast, but some coffee would be nice."

 

"Then have a seat,"  says Ann.  

 

"Thank you,"  Joseph says.  "Courtney, if you're not doing anything today, why don't you come spend the day with Jacob and me?"

 

"Well, thank you, Joseph, but, the two of you really should spend some time together alone."

 

"Alright,"  Joseph says, smiling at her.

Westar Oil....later....

 Shawn's new secretary, Kayla, the same girl he'd spent the night before with, is seated at her desk at Westar later in the morning when the phone rings.  Kayla picks it up and answers.  "Good morning, Westar Oil,"  she says.  "No, Mr. Smith hasn't come in yet.  Can I take a message?"  Kayla listens as the person on the other end of the line speaks.  "Yes, Mr. Newman, I'll give Mr. Smith the message just as soon as he comes in.  Thank you.  Bye."  No sooner has Kayla hung up the phone than Shawn walks in.  "Oh, Shawn,"  she says.  

 

"Any messages?"  He asks, walking up to her desk.

 

"Yes, Mr. Gerald Newman just called, and he wants you to call him back as soon as you possibly can."

 

"Alright.  I need to make a personal phone call, then, I'll have you get Mr. Newman on the phone for me,"  Shawn says, then he proceeds into his office and closes the door.  He goes to his desk, and a few seconds later, Kayla walks into the office.  

 

Shawn turns and looks at her.  "Something you need, Kayla?"  

 

"I just wanted to say that last night was........amazing.  I really had a good time. And, I'm free again tonight, if you'd like a repeat performance."

 

"Thank you, Kayla, I'll definitely think about that,"  Shawn says. 

 

"Great.  I just need to home after work and take a shower.  If you'd like you can come to my place tonight and I'll cook.  Then, we can......have a little fun."

 

"Kayla, let me explain something to you,"  Shawn says.  "Yes, last night was pretty awesome.  But, there's one thing we need to get straight between us.

You're a beautiful girl.  And you're pretty damned good in bed, which are two things going in your favor.  Now, the two of us can hook up from time to time for a little hot sex, but what happens between us outside of this office STAYS outside this office.  While we're here, I'm the boss, and you're my secretary.  From now on, I will decide when we hook up, and where.  And we will never discuss what goes on between us in this office again, even when we're alone.  Is that clear?"

 

Kayla looks at him, somewhat stunned by Shawn's cold attitude.  "Yes, sir.  Very clear."

 

"Good.  Now, if you'll excuse me, I have a private phone call to make.  I'll let you know when I'm done, and when you can get Gerald Newman on the phone for me."

 

Kayla nods, and quickly leaves the office, embarrassed.  

 

Shawn goes to his desk and takes a seat.  He picks up his cell phone and dials a number, then sits back and waits for an answer.  After several rings, he is about to hang up, but someone answers.  "Brad, Shawn here.  I want to step up our plan to crush Ewing Oil.  Yes, I know.  But I want you to rescind any drilling variances Ewing Oil has gotten in the past four months.  Brad, I don't give a damn how this is gonna look.  Now, my grandfather and I got you that appointment as head of the Oil Regulatory Commission, so you owe me.  I wanna destroy the Ewings and their company, and I'm not waiting.  So you do what you were appointed to that damned Commission to do."  Shawn end the call and tosses his phone onto the desk, an angry look on his face.

Ewing Oil....

   "Mr. Gantry, please, come in,"  Alex says, he and Clay welcoming an elderly Ewing Oil business associate into John Ross's office. "I'm John Ross's son, Alex Ewing.  And this is my cousin, Clay Beaumont."

 

"Mr. Gantry, I can't tell you what a pleasure it is to finally meet you,"  Clay says, shaking the man's hand.  "I've both read and heard so much about you."

 

"I'm very pleased to meet both of you,"  Gantry says.  "John Ross told me that his son would be handling this meeting today.  And you......you must be James Beaumont's son."

 

"Yes, sir, I am,"  Clay says with a smile.  

 

"Well, I knew your grandfather very well.  J.R. and I attended the University of Texas together back in the late 50s, and we even enlisted in the Army together in 1960, after which we were both sent to Vietnam.  I didn't see much of J.R. at all after the mid-70s when I relocated my company from Dallas to New York, but we did keep in touch.  I know he'd be very proud right now to see not only his son running Ewing Oil, but two of his grandsons working here as well."

 

"Thank you for saying that,"  says Alex.  "Mr. Gantry, I realize you must be skeptical of me, given my age, but......"

 

Gantry raises his hand to stop Alex.  "Young man, say no more.  Your granddaddy was one of the brightest guys I knew at the University, and, he knew more about business, especially the oil business, than anybody I'd ever met.  So, I trust that the two of you inherited that gene from him."

 

"Well, let's hope so,"  Alex says.  "Why don't we get down to business, and Clay and I can show you Ewing Oil's proposal to buy your company."

 

"Alright, son, let me see what you're proposing,"  Gantry says.  

 

Alex and Clay exchange looks and smiles.  "Okay,"  Alex says.  He opens a blue file folder and lays it on the table in front of Gantry.  "Now, take a look.  This is our proposal."  Alex watches the elderly man as Gantry looks over the proposal.  Alex is filled with a sense of pride at working for Ewing Oil, and at having this huge responsibility of closing this deal with an old friend of his grandfather's.

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

 Conner is finishing putting up a new gate on one of the fences at the Krebbs Ranch later in the afternoon when Ashley's car drives up and comes to a stop.  She gets out of the car and walks over to him.  "Hi,"  she says.

 

"Hey.  I thought you'd be at school right about now."

 

"Normally, I would be, but all my classes got cancelled because of some gas leak or something in our arts and sciences building, so I have the whole day free.  One of the hands said Dylan was out here with you.  I brought a picnic lunch, hoping to steal your brother away for an hour or so.  I spent all morning cooking."

 

"Oh, no, I'm sorry, Ashley, but you just missed him,"  Conner says.  "I could finish up here, so I sent Dylan and one of the hands into Braddock for some more supplies, so they'll probably stop for a burger or somethin' in town."

  Christopher and Lucia come out of a building in downtown Dallas that afternoon.  "Christopher, I cannot thank you enough for all you have done for me and for my boys."

 

"Lucia, it's my pleasure.  Really."  Christopher looks at his watch.  "We still have another half hour to kill before we have to go back to the dealership and pick up your car."

 

  Courtney walks onto the pool area at the Omni Hotel and looks around.  She spots Jacob and Joseph on the other side of the pool and walks over to them.  Joseph is sitting on a lounge chair watching Jacob as he swims. "Hi,"  Courtney says.

 

"Hi,"  Joseph says. 

 

Courtney takes a seat on the lounge chair beside him.  "Have you guys had a good day?"

 

Joseph smiles.  "It's been great.  We played miniature golf for a while this morning, then we went to see a movie, and then came back here to swim.  Courtney, you look really well."

 

"Thank you.  Joseph, what made you decide to come to Dallas?"  

 

"I told you this morning,"  Joseph replies.  "I wanted to see my son.  It's been months since I've seen Jacob, and I've missed him.  I thought it was time I spent some time with Jacob and got to know him."

 

"But why now?"

 

"I've been thinking about Jacob for a while, Courtney.  I agreed to keep my distance, but I can't do that anymore."

 

"Joseph, what does that mean?"  Courtney asks.

 

"Jacob is my son, Courtney.  And I can't keep my distance any longer.  Just look at him.  Last time I saw him, he was a kid.  Now, he's grown so much.  His voice has changed.  Seeing Jacob today makes me realize how much I want........how much I NEED to be a part of his life.  My son is growing up, and I'm missing out on watching him grow up.  It was a mistake for me to walk out of his life the way I did."  Joseph pauses for a moment and looks at her.  "How are things with you and Christopher?  I could sense that there's some tension between the two of you this morning.  And he certainly didn't seem too pleased that I showed up."

 

"Christopher and I have been having some problems lately,"  Courtney says.  

 

"Serious?"

 

"We'll work it out."

 

"MOM!"  Jacob calls to Courtney from across the pool.  The boy climbs out of the pool and runs over to where Courtney and Joseph are sitting.  "Hey, what are you doing here?"

 

"Oh, I just thought I'd stop by and see how you were enjoying your day with Joseph."

 

"We've been havin' a great time.  Why don't you come swim with me?"

 

"Well, I would, sweetheart, but I didn't bring my swim suit."

 

"Well, that can be easily fixed,"  says Joseph.  "There's a little store located right inside the lobby of the hotel.  And they sell swim suits there."

 

"Come on, Mom,"  Jacob says.  "It's still early."

 

Joseph looks at Courtney and smiles.  "You don't have any reason to rush back to Southfork, do you?"

 

"No, I don't,"  Courtney says sadly.  

 

"Then stay.  Go for a swim with me and Jacob."

 

Courtney looks at Joseph, then at Jacob.  "Sure, why not."

 

"Awesome!"  Says an excited Jacob.  

 

"I'll go and buy a swim suit.  Where did you say that shop is?"

 

"I'll come with you,"  Joseph says, getting up from his seat.  "Jacob, we'll be back in a few minutes."

 

"Okay,"  the boy says.  "Think I'll get some sun while I'm waiting."  Joseph and Courtney walk away from the pool and head into the hotel.  Jacob watches his parents with a smile.  After a few seconds, the smile disappears from his face, as he misses the times that he, Courtney, and Christopher use to spend together as a family this way.

Olive Garden Restaurant in Austin, Texas....late afternoon....

  Cory Winthrop is sitting in his car in the parking lot of the Olive Garden Restaurant in Austin, Texas, late in the afternoon, obviously waiting for someone.  He reaches into the cup holder between the front seats of his car and picks up his cell phone.  He looks at it, then begins typing a text.  Another car pulls into the restaurant's parking lot and comes to a stop in the space beside Cory's car.  Cory smiles when he sees the other car drive up, and gets out of his own car.  Daniel Cooper gets out of the other car, and the two young men greet each other with an embrace.  

 

"Sorry I'm late,"  Daniel says.  "Traffic on the interstate was a nightmare."

 

 

 

 

 

As the boys head into the restaurant hand in hand, they are unaware that they are being watched.  Sitting in a car nearby is Bum, who is taking pictures of them.  After the boys go inside the restaurant, Bum puts his camera down and smiles.  

 

 

 

 

 

Southfork....night....

  Christopher is at the bar in the den at Southfork that night pouring himself a drink when Courtney and Jacob walk into the foyer, returning home from their day spent with Joseph.  Spotting Christopher in the den, his back to the door as he takes a sip of his drink, Courtney and Jacob walk into the room.  "Hey, Dad,"  Jacob says.

 

Christopher turns to face his wife and stepson.  "Well, you two finally decided to come home?  Where the hell were you all afternoon?"

 

"We spent the day with Joseph,"  replies Jacob.  "We went to dinner, and to a movie."

 

"I'm sorry, I lost track of time,"  Courtney says.  

 

"You didn't lose track of anything,"  Christopher angrily says.  "You did this on purpose."

 

"Dad,"  Jacob says.

 

"Jacob, go up to your room,"  Christopher sternly says.

 

"But, Dad........"

 

"I said go up to your room!  Now!"

 

The boy gives Christopher an angry look, then turns and leaves the room.  

 

"So did you have a good time with Gioberti today?"  Christopher asks his wife.

 

"As a matter of fact, YES.  Jacob and I had a wonderful time with Joseph."

 

"Why is Gioberti even in Dallas, Courtney, and what was today all about, anyway?  Getting even with me for spending so much time trying to help Lucia?"

 

"You can take it any way you want to, Christopher.  But at least maybe now you know how I feel,"  Courtney says.  She turns and starts to leave the room.

 

"It's not the same thing, and you damned well know it!"  Christopher says.

"Oh, the HELL it isn't!"  Courtney angrily says.  "For months now, I've had to watch and wait for you while you spent almost all of your free time with Lucia Trevino and her kids, while you've spent very little time with Jacob and I.  At first, I thought you were doing it to ease your guilty conscience for killing Lucia's husband 6 years ago, but then I realized that it wasn't guilt.  You're genuinely attracted to her."

 

"That's ridiculous.  Lucia and I are just friends."

 

"If you believe that, then you're the only one around here who does, because everyone in this house, even Jacob, can see what's going on, Christopher.  You're pissed off at me for spending a few hours with my son's father, while you've spent MONTHS with another woman who's living right here on this ranch."

 

"I have NEVER been unfaithful to you with Lucia."

 

"Maybe not physically,"  Courtney says.  "Not yet, at least.  But you sure as hell have been unfaithful to me emotionally"

 

Christopher puts his drink down on the bar and walks past Courtney and into the foyer.

 

"Where are you going?  To Lucia?"  

 

Christopher stops in the foyer and turns back to her.  "What difference does it make?  No, I'm not going to Lucia.  I'm goin' for a drive to clear my head and try to calm down.  And when I get back, I'll sleep in the guest room."  He storms out of the house.

 

Courtney begins to cry, realizing that her marriage is in serious trouble.

Ewing Oil....the next day....

 Sly buzzes John Ross's office.  "John Ross, Bum is here."

 

"Alright, send him in."  John Ross stands and walks to the door to meet Bum as he walks in.  

 

"John Ross,"  Bum says.

 

"Bum, found out anything yet?  If you did, that was fast."

 

"You know I always work fast, John Ross.  And, I found out about all there is to know about Lila's two kids, Jasmine and Cory.  With the girl, there's not a whole lot there.  Jasmine was born in Bay City on October 22, 1998.  She attended public school in Bay City until her 10th grade year, then spent the last two years of high school in a private girls' school near Springfield.  After graduation, she returned to Bay City and attended college for two years before dropping out.  She hasn't been in any trouble, other than several speeding tickets."

 

"Nothin' more interesting than that?"  John Ross asks.

 

"Nope.  Now, the boy........he's another story."

 

"Oh?  Well, then let's hear Cody's story."

 

"It's CORY,"  Bum says.

 

"Oh, yes.......Cory.  So what's his story?"

 

"Cory Winthrop for a year, attended a local community college in Bay City, but he won a full scholarship with the University Of Texas last spring.  The kid was all set to start classes there in January, but last fall, he not only lost his scholarship, but he got kicked out of the college he was attending in Bay City."

 

"Kicked out?"  John Ross asks.  "What for?"

 

"Cory and this other kid, Jared Payne, stole the answers to a final exam.  They were caught, and both got kicked out of school."

 

"And Cory lost his scholarship because of that, huh?"  

 

"That's right."

 

"Bum, that doen't make any sense,"  says John Ross.  "If that kid lost his scholarship and got kicked outta school in Bay City, then why are his crazy parents goin' around braggin' about their son the college boy?  And why is he down in Austin?"

 

"Apparently, Cass and Lila don't know that their son lost his scholarship,"  Bum replies.  "They still think the kid is goin' to school at th University."

 

John Ross looks at him and laughs.  "You're kiddin' me, right?  Bum, you're tellin' me that Cory Winthrop is puttin' one over on his folks?  Haha, damn.  I love it.  That young man may be a true Ewing after all.  And the funniest part is that Cass and Lila are dumb enough to fall for it."

 

"Oh, it gets better, John Ross,"  Bum says with a smile.

 

"What do ya mean?"

 

Bum reaches into the pocket of his sport coat and pulls out an envelope.  I went to Austin yesterday and I watched Cory's apartment.  He stayed in most of the day until late yesterday afternoon.  Then he left and went to an Olive Garden Restaurant down the street from his apartment building.  There, he waited for someone who came and met him there."

 

"Who was it?"  John Ross asks. 

 

"Daniel Cooper, your cousin Lucy's stepson."

 

"So?  That's not that unusual.  Lucy and Lila have become friendly since they met.  Cory and Daniel Cooper are about the same age, so it's only natural that those two boys would become friends."

 

"It's a little more than that, John Ross,"  Bum says, opening the envelope.  He takes out a set of photos which he

hands to John Ross.  "Wouldn't you say?"

 

John Ross looks at the photos.  "What the hell?  Well, well.  Cory Winthrop and Mitch's son Daniel?"

 

"The boys spent about an hour and fifteen minutes at Olive Garden having dinner, then they left and went back to Cory's apartment.  I had one of my men take over for me and watch Cory's apartment all night,"  Bum says.  "Daniel Cooper stayed all night and left about 8 this morning."

 

"Well, I'll be damned.  Looks like my little nephew is livin' a double life.  One his Mama obviously has no idea about.  Now how can I use Cory's little secret to my advantage, in a way that'll cause maximum trouble in the Winthrop family?"  John Ross asks with a devious smiles.

 

 

END OF EPISODE 228....