EPISODE 155 - New Beginnings

 Alex, Michael, Lucas, and Heather are swimming in the pool at Southfork in the afternoon when Bobby's car

 pulls in and comes to a stop in the parking area behind the mansion.  

 

"Hey, they're back,"  Lucas says.

 

"I thought they weren't arriving until later,"  says Heather.

 

"Yeah, so did I," Lucas says.  "Come on, let's go see them and meet Courtney's son.  Come on, Michael."

 

The boy climbs out of the pool and picks up a towel from a chair and begins to dry himself off.  The four walk over as Bobby, Ann, Christopher, Courtney, and Jacob get out of Bobby's car.  

 

"Well, we didn't expect you guys home until later this afternoon,"  Lucas says.

 

"We decided to take an earlier flight,"  Bobby says.

 

"Yeah, we were ready to get Jacob home,"  says Christopher.  

 

"Everyone, I'd like for you all to meet my son, Jacob,"  Courtney says.

 

"Hi, Jacob,"  Heather greets the boy with a smile.

 

"Jacob, welcome to Southfork,"  says Lucas.  

 

"Thank you,"  the boy says in a low tone, not making eye contact with anyone, a look of both sadness and fear on his face.

 

"Jacob,"  Christopher says.  "This is my brother, Lucas, his wife Heather, and their son, Michael.  And, my cousin, Alex."

 

"Hi, Jacob,"  Michael says.

 

"Hi."

 

"So is everyone okay?"  Heather asks.  "We heard a little bit about what happened in California."

 

"Uh, yeah,"  says Christopher.  "Say, Michael, why don't you take Jacob up to your bedroom and show him where he'll be sleeping?"

 

"Sure, Christopher.  Come on, Jacob."

 

The fearful child looks up at Courtney and Christopher.  "Go on, sweetheart,"  Courtney says.  "Go with Michael."

 

Without a word, Jacob picks up his small suitcase and follows Michael to the house.  The group of adults and Alex watch as the two boys go into the house.  

 

"I didn't wanna talk about what happened in California in front of Jacob," Christopher.

 

"Yeah, that's understandable,"  says Lucas.  "So, this guy Adam Reed took a shot at you?"

 

"Yeah."

 

"That was the most frightened I've ever been in my life," Courtney says.

 

"Reed had let his wife and Jacob come out of the motel," says Bobby.  "We thought he was comin' out, too.  But, as he stepped out of the room, he had a gun.  He raised it and pointed it directly at Christopher."

 

"Why?"  Alex asks.

 

"I guess Reed blamed Courtney and I for what was happening to his family," Christopher replies.  "He and his wife were losing a child they had gone to a lot of trouble to adopt illegally."

 

"Not to mention the fact that Reed KNEW he was about to go to jail for a very long time for the illegal adoption, and for kidnappin',"  Ann says.

 

"My Lord, that must've been horrible,"  says Heather.

 

"It was,"  replies Courtney.  "But Christopher was a hero.  He dove in front of me and Jacob."

 

"The bullet struck the top of one of the police cars,"  Bobby says.

 

"Well, thank GOD you're all okay,"  Heather says.  "And that you guys are finally home."

 

"Sure feels good to be back at Southfork again," Christopher says.

 

"It's great to have ya back, big bro,"  says Lucas.  

 

"Well, I appreciate that."

 

"Why didn't Lucy come back with you?"  Heather asks.

 

"She decided to spend a few days visiting her parents,"  replies Ann.  

 

"Well, let's all get inside and we'll fill you guys in on the rest,"  Bobby says.  

 

"I'll help you get the bags,"  Lucas tells his father.  He, Bobby, and Christopher begin removing the family's bags from the trunk of Bobby's car.

Meanwhile....

 Michael and Jacob walk into Michael's bedroom in the attic at Southfork, the room Jacob will now be sharing with Michael.  "Well, here we are,"  Michael says.  "That's your bed, and this one is mine."

 

Jacob looks around the room for a moment, then walks over to the bed Michael pointed out for him and places his bag on the bed.  

 

"You like Spiderman?"  Michael asks.

 

"Sure."

 

"He's my favorite superhero, in case ya couldn't tell from the way my room is decorated."

 

Jacob looks around.  "It's nice," he says sadly.

 

Michael looks curiously at the other boy for a moment, then walks over to his dresser, opens a drawer, and brings out some video game cases.  He walks over to the bed and takes a seat.  "You like video games?"

 

 

 

 

"Yeah, I guess so,"  Jacob replies.  "Never really played 'em."

 

"Dude, seriously?"  Michael asks.  "You never played video games?"

 

"No."

 

"Well, don't worry, I have a LOT of games you can play.  This one is my favorite.  It's a Spiderman game for Play Station 2.  It's a few years old, but I still love it.  I can't wait for the new Spiderman 2018 game to be released, but that won't be until sometime next year.  You can please any of these you want."

 

"Thanks,"  Jacob says.  

 

"Hey, you have a swimsuit?"  Michael asks.  "If not, I've got one you can have."

 

"Thanks.  I have one."

 

"Cool.  Well, why don't you change into it, and  come down for a swim?"

 

"Okay."

 

"Great.  I'll get out and let you change,"  says Michael.  "Don't worry about putting your stuff away yet.  I made some space in my dresser, so we can put your stuff in later.  I'll be down at the pool.  Just come on down when you're ready."  Jacob nods.  Michael gets up and walks to the door, then turns back to the other boy.  "Jacob, I'm really glad you're here.  It'll be great to have a kid my age around Southfork to play with."  Michael smiles, then leaves the room. 

 

After Michael leaves the room, Jacob gets up from his seat on the bed and looks around the room for a minute.  He walks around the small bedroom, looking at all of Michael's things and the Spiderman decor.  The boy's bottom lip begins to tremble as he tries to hold back his tears.  Jacob is afraid, being in new surroundings with a new family he doesn't even know.  

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Brad Stone's apartment....afternoon

 

 

 

 

 

Brad steps off the elevator at his apartment building and makes his way down the hall to his apartment.  Taking his key out of his apartment, he unlocks his door and walks in.  As he is about to close the door, John Ross suddenly appears and grabs the door, forcing his way into the apartment.

 

"Not so fast, Stone," he says, closing the door behind him.  "You got comp'ny."

 

"You're completely insane, Ewing.  I've never heard of anyone named Trevor Carrington."

 

"You're a damned liar!  Carrington is gone, Stone,  but before he left town, he told us everything.  How you hired him to come here and try and cause trouble for Krystina."

 

"I don't know who this Carrington guy is, but you've gotten ahold of some mistaken information, and you're trespassing.  Now get out of my home or I'm calling the police."

 

"You can call whoever you want, Stone,"  John Ross says.  "You can consider yourself lucky.  My first instinct was to come over here and rip you apart, but I'm not gonna do that.  Least not with my hands.  Instead, Stone, I am gonna tear your life apart piece by piece, the way you've tried to do to me and my wife."

 

"Be careful who you're threatening, John Ross.  I have some very powerful friends and allies."

 

 

 

"You mean Tripp McKay and that loser of a Daddy of yours?  Well, Stone, you're gonna need a whole lot more help than those two.  Because no power on Earth is gonna stop me from destroyin' you, your Daddy, and that upstart comp'ny of yours.  You messed with my wife for the second time, and you think I'm gonna let that pass?  You just started an all-out war....... a war I'm gonna win.  You're a loser, Stone.  Just like your Daddy and that drunken Granddaddy of yours, Digger Barnes."

 

"We'll just see about that, John Ross.  You want a war, then you're gonna get the war to end all wars.  I'll show you just how unlike my father and grandfather I am."

 

 

 A definite feeling of early Autumn was in the air at Southfork.  One week had passed since Christopher and

Courtney brought Jacob home to Southfork.  Lucas, Heather, and Michael come down the stairs one morning, Michael carrying his book bag ready for school.  

 

"Now you sure you got everything you need for school?"  Heather asks her son. "Everything that was on your list?

"Yeah, Mom, I have everything," Michael replies as they walk into the dining room, where Bobby, Ann, John Ross, Krystina, Christopher, and a sleepy Alex are already seated at the table having breakfast.

 

"Well, good mornin',"  Bobby says,

 

"Morning, Grandpa,"  Michael says, taking a seat at the table.

 

"Michael, are you all ready for your first day of school?"  Ann asks.

 

"I guess."

 

"Well, I'm sure not ready,"  says Alex.  "I could use another couple hours of sleep."

 

"Alex, you're a senior this year, you should be excited,"  Krystina says.

 

"Yeah......excited,"  the teenager says without enthusiasm.  

 

Courtney and Jacob come down the stairs and enter the dining room.   "Hey, there he is,"  Christopher says with a smile.  

 

"Jacob, are you all set to start your new school?"  Ann asks.

 

"I guess,"  the boy replies sadly, taking his seat at the table.  

 

"I have to take Jacob in to Braddock Elementary and get him registered this morning,"  Courtney says.  

 

 

 C.J. comes down the stairs of his apartment that morning to answer his ringing doorbell.  He opens the door to Conner.  "Hey, man, come in,"  C.J. says.

 

"Thanks, bro,"  Conner says, walking in.  "So, how do you feel?"

 

"Well, I don't think I'm gonna be running a marathon any time soon, but, other than still being a little sore, I'm good.  I'm even planning to go back to work at Catlin Oil tomorrow."

 

"Hey, that's great,"  says Conner.  "I'm glad to see you back on your feet."

 

"Yeah, me, too."

 

"So what about your new brother, Eric?"  Conner asks.  "Have you heard anymore from him since you said he came to see you at the hospital?"

 

"No, not exactly.  He's back in San Francisco,"  C.J. replies.  "I'm sure he'll probably be back in Dallas when his father's trial comes up."

"Are you planning on seeing him or talking to him if he comes back for Peter Love's trial?"  Conner asks.

 

C.J. sighs.  "I really don't know.  Things didn't go very well when we talked at the hospital."

 

"C.J. do you mind some advice from your slightly younger cousin?"  Conner asks.

 

"Of course not."

 

"Yours and Eric's situation is very similar to mine and Dylan's.  Y'know, when I first found out that my Dad had another son and I had a brother, I was hurt.  It meant that my Dad cheated on my Mom when they were married.  And John Baxter, the man who raised Dylan is the same man who murdered my father.  So at first, every time I saw Dylan, I was reminded of that."

 

"So when did that change?"  C.J. asks.

 

"When I got to know him.  I realized it was wrong of me to blame my brother for things that he had no control over.  He was a victim, too.  So is Eric, man.  Imagine how confused and messed up the guy must feel right now.  He found out his father had lied to him his whole life about his mother, and that his father wasn't the man he thought he was. Not to mention the fact that Eric has to live with knowing that his father murdered his mother."

 

"Yeah, I know all that, Conner,"  C.J., walking to the window and looking out.  

 

"C.J., I can't tell you what to do, man.  But, at least give Eric a chance.  He's your brother, and he's the only sibling you're ever likely to have at this point.  Unless, of course, you wanna count John Ross after your Dad marries Sue Ellen."

 

C.J. turns to him and smiles.  "Bro, don't even go there."

 

Conner laughs at the comment.  "Yeah, that's what I thought.  Just think about what I said."

 

"I will.  Thanks, cousin.  Y'know, you're pretty wise for your age."

 

"Wise?"  Conner asks.  "I wish that were true.  If I were all that wise, I'd know how to help my own brother with stuff he's dealing with right now," he says sadly.

A farmhouse near Texarkana....

 At the farmhouse near Texarkana, Texas, where Austin Wentworth has been held captive for several weeks, Kasey is washing dishes in the kitchen while watching the noon day news on television.  Kasey continues with her chore of washing dishes, not really paying much attention to the news.  Kasey's brother Josh comes into the kitchen from outside.  "You bring his lunch yet?"  Josh asks.

 

"Yeah, just a few minutes ago.  He's gettin' real restless."

 

"Well, that's his problem."

 

"Josh, can't we just let him go?"

 

"Now, Kasey, you know we can't.  The minute Austin Wentworth sets foot off this farm, he's gone go right to the cops, then they'll come and take you and Corey away.  Is that what you want?"

 

"Of course not,"  Kasey replies.

 

"Then we can't never let him leave here,"  Josh says.  "Fix me a sandwich or somethin'.  I'm gonna go wash up."

 

Josh leaves the kitchen, and as Kasey goes about fixing her brother a sandwich, she is paying little attention to the news on TV, until the newscaster begins with a story that catches her attention:   "In national news, police in Texas, as well as the FBI, are doubling down on their manhunt for a group of fugitives wanted in connection with the bombing of the private home of newspaper mogul Richard Channing in California last year.  The bombing killed three adults and the unborn child of Richard Channing's son Michael and his wife.  The prime suspect in this case is 23-year-old Brian Manning.  Manning is believed to be traveling with his brother, Austin Wentworth, CEO of multi-billion dollar Wentworth Industries.  The two brothers disappeared two months when it was believed that Manning was in the Dallas area, where his brother lives.  Police are also looking for the mother of the two young men, Katherine Wentworth, as well as their sister, Katelyn Spencer.  Both women are wanted in connection with the kidnapping and attempted murders of James Beaumont, Jr., and Mrs. Ann Ewing, wife of Ewing Oil president, Bobby Ewing.  In other news......"

 

Kasey immediately switches off the TV, a stunned look on her face.  When she turns around, she is startled to find Josh standing in the doorway, having also heard the news report.

 

"You see what I mean, Kasey?"  Josh asks.  "The cops are lookin' for him."

 

"And what he said about his brother was right,"  says Kasey.  "About his brother bein' a killer."

 

"Yep.  That's why we can't let him stay here.  If he does stay here he's gonna cause us nothin' but trouble.  Kasey, we GOT to get rid of him, and soon."

 

Kasey begins to cry.  "Josh, no....."

 

Josh walks over to his sister.  "Kasey, we got no choice.  Do you wanna be split up?  You and Corey go to some foster home, and me.....Kasey, I could go to jail for a long, long time.  Is that what you want?"

 

"No, course not."

 

"Then we got NO choice.  We gotta get rid of Austin Wentworth.  I'll do it myself.  And I'll bury him down by the creek where nobody'll ever find him."

 

"Josh, you're not a killer."

 

"I'll do anything to keep you and Josh with me.  It's either HIM, or us.  And it damned sure aint gonna be us.  Don't you say nothin' to Corey about this.  We'll just tell him that......that we let Austin go."  Josh kisses his sister on the forehead.  "It's gone be alright, Kasey.  I promise.  I'll always take care of you and Corey.  Just forget that sandwich, I aint hungry.  I'm gone go take care of somethin'.   And I got some thinkin' to do.  Then I'll be back."  Josh turns and walks out of the house again.  After he's gone, Kasey breaks down in tears.  

 

Standing in the doorway leading from the kitchen into the living room of the farmhouse, Josh and Kasey's little brother, Corey, watches his sister as she cries.  The young boy overheard everything his older siblings had said.  His mind and heart are filled with fear.  He doesn't want his family split up, but he also doesn't want his brother to kill Austin. Corey also begins to cry silently, as he slips down the hall and to his bedroom.  Closing the door, he goes to his bed, lays down on his stomach, and cries uncontrollably.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Stone-Barnes Oil....

 Brad is working at his desk when Cliff knocks on his door, then walks into his office.  "Hey, ya got a minute?"  Cliff asks.

 

"Well.....come in,"  Brad says sarcastically.

 

"Sorry to barge in like this, but, this can't wait."

 

"Okay, then, I'm listening.  What's so important?"

 

"Well, I have a proposition for you,"  says Cliff.

 

"What kind of proposition?"  Brad asks, standing to his feet.

 

"Son, how would you like to pull off one of the biggest coups in the history of the oil industry, and acquire one of the biggest companies in the entire state?"

 

 Dylan is working on repairing a fence with another young ranch hand, Ben, a boy of about 18, at the Krebbs ranch when a truck drives across the field and comes to a stop at the spot where the two young men are working.  Conner gets out of the truck carrying a small paper bag.  "Got some more nails," he says.

 

"Thanks Conner, I think we're gonna need 'em,"  says Ben.

 

"Good job, guys,"  Conner says.  "I didn't realize we had so many fences in need of repair."

 

"Well, I thought Dylan was supposed to be keepin' a check on all the fencin',"  says Ben.

 

"Dylan, didn't you check all the fences not too long ago?"  Conner asks.

 

"Yeah.  Yeah, I did."

 

"Well how could you miss so many spots that needed repairs?"

 

"I dunno.  I just did."

 

"Conner, if you'd like, I'll do the checkin' next time,"  Ben says.

 

Conner looks at Dylan with concern for a moment.  "Thanks, Ben, but, I think Dylan can handle it," he says.

 

"If you say so, Conner.  But if ya ask me, Dylan hadn't been handlin' much of anything around here lately."

 

"Look, Ben, just get the HELL off my back, alright?"  Dylan snaps.  "If you want the job of checking to make sure all the fences are okay, then fine.  You can have it!"

 

"Now just wait a minute," Conner says.  "Dylan, just calm down."

 

 

"I'm sick of this guy always on my back about everything."

 

"If you'd do your job, then nobody'd have to be on your back," Ben says.

 

"You son of a......."  Dylan says as he takes both hands and shoves Ben in the chest.

 

"Oh, yeah, you wanna do this right here?"  Ben asks, shoving Dylan back.

 

"Alright, STOP IT!"  Conner yells, stepping between the two angry young men.  "THAT'S ENOUGH!  Ben, go work with Tony over in the south pasture,  I'll finish up here."

 

""You two think you can get away with anything around here just because you're kin to Ray.  Bet you're gonna tell Ray about this and get me fired, huh?"  Asks an angry Ben.

 

"You're damned right!"  Yells Dylan.

"No.  No one is getting fired.  Ben, just go."

 

Ben and Dylan again exchange angry looks, then Ben walks over to an awaiting four wheeler and gets on.  Conner and Dylan watch as the young man drives away.

 

Conner turns to his brother.  "What the hell is wrong with you?"

 

"Oh, you're taking HIS side now?"  Dylan angrily asks.

 

"I'm not taking anybody's side,"  Conner says.  "Have you been having problems with Ben?"

 

"The guy's a jackass, and he's always riding me."

 

"He's one of Ray's best hands, Dylan.  And he's right about one thing.  You're not doing your share of the work around here.  And this has been goin' on for a while."

"Well maybe I'm just sick and tired of workin' here.  Sick and tired of everything and everyone here!"  Dylan says.

 

"Yeah?  If you feel that way, why don't you just get the hell out?"

 

"Don't worry, I will,"  Dylan says.  He brushes past his brother, bumping shoulders with Conner.  

 

Angered by his brother's attitude, Conner turns around and grabs Dylan by the arm.  "Wait a minute!"  He says.

 

"Let go of me!"  Dylan says.

 

"I'll let go when I'm done talking.  Dylan, I don't know what's goin' on with you lately, but I have a feeling.  Have you been drinking?  Is that it?"

 

"NO!"

 

"And why should I believe you?  You've lied to me before about it."

 

"I don't give a damn what you believe!"

 

Conner looks at his brother angrily for a moment, then releases his grip on Dylan's arm.  "I don't know why I even bother with you anymore," he says.  "Dylan, you're my brother, and I love you, but you sure aren't making it easy these days.  You've got this chip on your shoulder like you're mad at the whole damned world.  Like the world owes you something just because you've had a hard time in life.  Y'know, you use to worry about getting kicked off this ranch if Ray and Donna found out about your drinking.  But lately, it's almost like you're trying to get yourself kicked out of here.  Ray and Donna have been nothing but good to you.  To BOTH of us.  And I've been nothing but good to you, too.  You need to get your act together, little brother.  Or else I'm gonna knock that chip off your shoulder."

 

"Try it and I'll kick your ass,"  Dylan says.

 

"You'll kick MY ass?"  Conner asks.  Without warning, Conner punches Dylan in the mouth hard enough to knock Dylan off his feet and to the ground.  Shocked by what his brother has just done, Dylan looks up at Conner and wipes blood from the side of his mouth.  Conner looks down at him.  "Get it together, Dylan........or go back to your mother.  I'm tired of always worrying about you."  Conner walks back to the truck, gets in, and drives off, leaving Dylan still sitting on the ground.  

 

Dylan reaches into his jacket pocket and pulls out a small flask.  Opening it, he takes a sip of whiskey, then begins to cry.  

A farmhouse near Texarkana.....early evening....

"How do you think I feel, Kasey?  Being held here against my will all this time."

 

"Austin, I'm sorry,"  Kasey says.

 

"Sorry?  If you're sorry, you'd let me go," Austin says.

 

"If I could, I would.  Believe me, I would."

 

"Then why can't you?  Kasey, I've been here for two months, and neither you or your brother have explained any of this to me.  What the hell is going on here?  Why am I being held prisoner here?  Kasey, if you and Josh are scared that I'm gonna tell the police about what you've done, I won't.  I promise."

"And why should I believe that?"  Kasey asks.  "The minute you got outta here, you'd go straight to the cops, and......"

 

"And what, Kasey?  They'd find out what's really going on here?  That three kids are living on a farm all alone out in the middle of nowhere?  How is it possible that you three have lived here all this time without someone finding out?"

 

"Just leave it alone and mind your own business, Austin,"  Kasey says.  "Eat your supper before it gets cold."  Kasey starts to leave the room.

 

"Kasey?"  Austin calls to her.  The girl stops at the door and looks at him.  "Kasey, you have two brothers.  You love Josh and Corey very much, don't you?"

 

"Of course I do,"  the girl replies.

 

"Imagine if one of them was missing.  How would you feel?  Kasey, I have a family.  They're probably looking everywhere for me, and worried sick if they don't think I'm dead."

 

"Nope, that aint right,"  Kasey says.  "Aint nobody lookin' for you except the police."

 

"What?"  Austin asks.

 

"It was on the news.  The police are lookin' for you because they think you helped your brother escape.  And you're fam'ly aint lookin' for you because they're all gone, too."

 

"Gone, too?  Kasey, what do you mean by that?"  

 

"The news said that your Mama and your sister are on the run from the police, too,"  Kasey replies.  "Your whole fam'ly's a bunch of fugitives."

 

Austin stands to his feet and walks over to her.  "Kasey, don't you see?  If the cops are looking for me, it's only a matter of time before they find me.  Before they trace me here, and then you and your brothers will be in a lot of trouble."

 

"Then maybe Josh is right,"  Kasey says.

 

"Right?  Right about what?"

 

Kasey looks at him.  "Nothin'.  Just eat your supper," she says, then quickly leaves the room.  Austin hears the sound of the door locking behind her.  Kasey pauses outside of Austin's door and begins to cry, her conscience deeply troubled by what she knows her brother is about to do to this young man she has come to care for.  "Austin," she says quietly, placing her hand on the door.  "I'm so sorry.  Please forgive me."  Still in tears, Kasey goes back down the hall and into the kitchen, where she places the key to the bedroom back on the nail by the kitchen door. After another brief pause, the girl leaves the kitchen, goes back down the hallway to her own bedroom and goes in.  Kasey is unaware that her little brother Corey had been watching her from the living room. 

 

Corey walks into the kitchen and looks at the keys hanging on the nail.  The boy remembers which key he had seen his sister take down and replace.  Corey knows that he has to help Austin.  He has to warn him of what Josh is planning to do, otherwise, Austin will die and his brother will become a killer.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

The Krebbs Ranch....the next morning

 

 

Donna pours a cup of coffee and hands it to Ray at the breakfast table the next morning.  "Thank ya,"  Ray says.

 

"You are welcome,"  Donna says, taking a seat aross from him as Conner walks into the kitchen.  

 

"Morning, guys,"  Conner says, picking up a plate from the kitchen counter.

"Mornin',"  Ray says.

 

Conner begins filling his plate.  "Mmmm, breakfast smells good."

 

"Thank you,"  says Donna.  "How'd you sleep last night?"

 

"Actually.......I didn't,"  Conner replies.  "Not much, anyway."  The young man takes a seat at the table.

 

"I know,"  says Donna.  "I thought I heard something, so I got up and went to the bedroom door.  I saw you coming downstairs."

 

 

"Yeah, I went outside and sat on the porch for a while.    Just gazed up at the stars."

 

"Anything wrong, the reason you couldn't sleep?"  Ray asks.

 

"Yeah.  But it'll be fine.  I'll work it out."

 

Dylan walks into the kitchen, goes to the refrigerator and takes out a carton of orange juice.  

 

"Mornin', Dylan,"  Ray says.  

 

"Morning,"  Dylan says, pouring himself a small glass of juice.  

 

"Aren't you gonna have any breakfast?"  Donna asks.

 

 

Dylan gives his brother an angry look.  "I'm not hungry."

 

"Better have somethin',"  says Ray.  "We got a long day of work ahead, and you don't need to work on an empty stomach."

 

"Like I said......I'm not hungry."  Dylan finishes his glass of juice.  "I'm gonna go ahead to work," he says, then leaves the room, again looking at Conner with anger as he walks out. 

 

"Well, what on Earth was that all about?"  Donna asks.

 

"That's what I'd like to know,"  Ray says.  "Conner, is there a problem between you and your brother?"

 

 

 

 

 

"Nothin' I can't handle,"  Conner replies sadly.  But privately, he wonders if he really can handle this problem with Dylan.  

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Southfork....

 

 

Michael and Jacob are getting ready for school in their small bedroom at Southfork that morning, and Michael is becoming annoyed that Jacob is taking his time.

 

"Jacob, hurry up,"  Michael tells the other boy.  "You're gonna make us late."

 

"Who cares?  It's just school,"  Jacob says.

 

Michael zips his book bag as he sighs in frustration.  He picks up his bag and starts to leave the room when Christopher knocks on the door.  Michael opens the door and lets him in.

 

"Well, good morning,"  Christopher.  "You guys are running a little late, huh?  Breakfast is ready."

 

 

 

 

 

"I'M ready,"  Michael replies.  "But Jacob is taking forever."

 

"Well, you go on down to breakfast.  I'll hurry him up."

 

"Okay,"  Michael says, then walks out.  

 

 

 

"Jimmy is there any reason you've been avoiding me?" Emma asks.  

 

"Avoiding you?"

 

"Yes.  AVOIDING me.  I haven't seen you, you haven't been by the cottage or even returned my texts in over a week.  What's going on?"

 

"Why don't you tell ME, Emma?"  Jimmy asks.  

 

"What?  Jimmy, what's going on with you?  I thought we were friends."

 

"I thought so, too."

 

"Look, if you tell me what this is about....."

 

"Are you having an affair with John Ross again?"  Jimmy asks, interrupting her.

 

"What?"  Asks a stunned Emma.  "You.....you think that John Ross and I are having an affair?"

 

"It happened before."

 

"I am NOT having an affair with John Ross,"  Emma says.  "Jimmy, why would you even think that?"

 

"Because I saw you, Emma.  I saw you and John Ross one day going into the cottage."

 

"Jimmy, that was nothing,  For your information, I had something to give John Ross."

 

"I'll bet,"  Jimmy says.

 

"You know what?  Just SCREW you!"  Says an angry Emma.  She turns and walks away, heading back to the house.  

 

After a moment's pause, Jimmy runs after her.  "Emma, wait!"

 

She stops and turns back to him.  "I don't wanna hear anything else you've got to say."

 

"I'm sorry,"  Jimmy says.  "But what was I supposed to think?"

 

"As my friend, you were supposed to have more faith in me,"  Emma says.   "And believe me when I told you I wasn't sleeping with John Ross."

 

"I'm sorry.  You're right.  Besides, it's none of my business anyway."

 

"No, it's not,"  says Emma.  "But to set the record straight, I'll tell you why John Ross was going with me to the cottage that day.  Remember when we were at the park that day and we saw Krystina with that guy?"

 

"Yeah, I do."

 

"Well, I had a friend of mine follow Krystina, and take some photos of her and the mystery man."

 

"And......Emma, you didn't,"  Jimmy says.  "You showed John Ross the pictures?"

 

"And it's a good thing I did.  Turns out the man she was meeting was her cousin, a guy named Trevor Carrington."

 

"Her cousin?"

 

"That's right.  A lowlife Krystina wanted nothing to do with,"  Emma says.  "My guess is this cousin was trying to hit her up for money.  So, I have John Ross the photos, he got in touch with my friend Ryan who took the photos, and John Ross went to see Krystina's cousin and got rid of him."

 

"Wow,"  Jimmy says, surprised.  "Well, sounds like you helped John Ross and Krystina out."

 

"Yes, I did,"  says Emma.  

 

"I'm really sorry that I jumped to the wrong conclusion."

 

Emma sighs.  "Well, I suppose, given my history with John Ross, it was an easy conclusion to jump to."

 

"Emma, please, forgive me."

 

"It's fine, Jimmy.  Anyway, umm, one thing I wanted to tell you was that, I'm going back to California.  I'll be leaving this afternoon."

 

"California?"  Jimmy asks.  "For a visit.....or for good?"

 

"I'm not sure yet.  Kevin's will is being probated, and it'll be read in a few days, so I need to be there for that.  And, I'm not sure how long I'll be gone, depending on what's in the will, and how my son will be affected.  I'm sure that Kevin left our son the bulk of his estate, so I'm sure I'll have some business to attend to."

 

"I see.  Well, I'm sorry to see you go."

 

"It's probably not permanent.  But I'll probably be gone for a while, and I didn't wanna leave without saying goodbye."

 

"I'm glad you came to see me,"  Jimmy says.  "Look, why don't I drive you to the airport?"

 

"My Mom is gonna drive me.  But, you could give me a lift into town now, if you're not too busy.  I need to go and see Cliff.  He offered me a job at my brother Brad's company, and I told him I would think about it.  I was considering taking the job before I got the call yesterday about Kevin's will."

"Okay.  We can go now.  Just let me go up to the house and grab my car keys."

 

"Alright, I'll go get my purse and meet you up at the house,"  Emma says.

 

Jimmy nods and smiles at her, then the two walk away in separate directions, Jimmy toward the main house and Emma returning to the cottage.

Stone-Barnes Oil....a short time later....

"VERY encouraging,"  Cliff says.  "Once I'm in the door at Wentworth, we will have an incredible amount of power."

 

"I like the sound of that, Cliff.  And this only backs up my belief that I did the right thing in bringing you into this company."

 

As Cliff is about to say something, Amanda buzzes his office.  "Yes?"  he says.

 

"Mr. Barnes, your daughter is here to see you."

 

"Oh?  Pamela?"

 

"No, Emma Ryland."

 

"Oh, well, thank you,"  says Cliff.  "Send her in."  A couple of seconds later, Emma walks into the office.  "Emma,"  Cliff says with a smile, greeting his daughter with a kiss.  

 

"Hi, Cliff,"  Emma says.  "Hello, Brad."

 

"Emma, it's good to see you.  Well, I'll let the two of you visit.  I have some work to do,"  Brad says, then leaves the office.

 

"Have a seat,"  Cliff tells Emma, who sits down in the chair across from the desk.  "I'm really glad that you're here.  I was gonna call you today.  Have you had a chance to think about the offer I made you of a job here?"

 

"Yes, I have, and, I'm afraid I won't be able to take the job."

 

"What?  But why?"

 

"I have to go back to California this afternoon.  Kevin's will is going to be read soon, and I have to be there."

 

"I see.  Well, how long will you be gone?"  Cliff asks.

 

"I'm really not sure.  However long it takes, and depending on the will."

 

"I sure hope it's not too long.  I've really enjoyed having you and my grandson here."

 

Emma stands from her seat.  "I'll call you as soon as I get to San Francisco, and when I find out how long I'm gonna be there, I'll let you know."

 

"Alright, sweetheart,"  Cliff says.  "And in the meantime, I'll still talk to your brother about that job here.  I may not be working at Stone Barnes when you come back, but, I'm sure I can convince Brad to leave the job open for you."

 

"Why wouldn't you be working here?"  Emma asks.

 

Cliff smiles.  "I suppose it'll be okay to tell you.  I may be running Wentworth Industries."

 

"Really?"

 

"Yes.  With that whole Wentworth clan now gone and fugitives from the law, including Austin, since I use to run that company, and then years before that I ran the Tool & Dye company, who else is better suited to become CEO.  I've already started campaigning for the position by talking to some of the board members. But, whatever you do, don't tell anyone else about this.  I don't want anything to sabotage my chances."

 

"Don't worry, I won't say a thing.  But, you are forgetting one member of the Wentworth branch of the family who isn't on the run from the police at the moment."

 

"Oh?  Who?"  Cliff asks.

 

"Katherine's oldest son, Jonathon Lord."

 

A look of surprise comes over Cliff's face.  "Oh," he says.  "Oh, boy, I forgot all about him."

 

Emma smiles.  "Well, if it's any consolation, I don't think he'll be much of  a threat.  From what I understand, he's been struggling to run not only his father's company, Lord Enterprises since his father disappeared the same night as the rest of the family, but also the newspaper his father strong armed from Richard Channing."

 

"Sweetheart, thank you for telling me all that,"  Cliff says, putting his arms around her.  "I think this information just might come in handy."

 

"You're welcome,"  Emma says, returning her father's hug before pulling away.

 

"You have a safe flight, and call me the minute you land and let me know you got there alright."

 

"I will.  And......good luck with Wentworth."

"Thank you,"  Cliff says as Emma leaves.  After she's gone, Cliff walks to his desk and takes a seat.  "Hmmmm..... he says to himself.  "Jonathon Lord.  Well, now, I'll just have to find a way to make sure my nephew doesn't get in my way."

Southfork.....

 Sue Ellen and Ann walk into the den at Southfork early that afternoon.  "I'm so glad you stopped by,"  Ann says.

 

"Well, I wanted to see you.  I hope I'm not interrupting anything,"  Sue Ellen says, the two women taking seats on the sofa.

 

"No, of course not.  I have to take Emma to the airport in an hour and a half, but I'm free until then."

 

"Is Emma leaving?"

 

"She got a call yesterday from Kevin's attorney,"  Ann replies.  "His will is going to be read in a couple of days."

 

"Oh, I see.  Well, I certainly feel for Emma in her loss."

 

"So do I.  She really loved Kevin, and although I had my reservations when this relationship began, Kevin proved himself to be a good man, despite who his father is.  He really loved Emma, and he was good to her."

"Well, I hope that eventually, Emma will find that kind of love again," says Sue Ellen.  

 

"The way that you have?"  Ann asks with a smile.

 

"Yes, the way that I have.  That's one reason I came over.  I wanted to tell you something, and, to ask a favor.  Actually.....two favors."

 

"Ask away."

 

Sue Ellen takes a deep breath and smiles.  "Catlin and I have finally set a wedding date."

 

"You have?  Sue Ellen, that'f wonderful.  When is it?"

 

"Christmas Eve.  We were thinking, an early wedding at my house before the family gets together at Southfork for Christmas."

 

"Well, why not just have it here?"  Ann asks.  "I mean, unless it would be too awkward because you married J.R. here both times."

 

"That's one reason.  And then there's the infamous Southfork wedding jinx,"  says Sue Ellen.  

 

Ann laughs.  "Oh, yes, there's that.  Sue Ellen, I'm so happy for you.  You said you had two favors to ask?"

 

"Yes.  Ann, would you be my matron of honor?"

 

Ann looks at her friend and smiles.  "Oh, Sue Ellen.  You KNOW I will.  I would truly be honored.  Thank you."

 

"I wouldn't even consider asking anyone else.  Now for my second favor.  Would you help me plan my wedding?"

 

"Of course, anything you need.  That's what best friends are for."

 

The two women smile, then hug each other as Courtney walks into the room.  "Well, hi," she says.  "Hello, Sue Ellen."

 

"Courtney, hello, how are you, dear?"  Sue Ellen says, standing to hug the younger woman.

 

"Just fine.  Especially now that I have my son here at Southfork with me."

 

"Yes, and  big congratulations there."

 

"Thank you.  Looked like the two of you were celebrating."

 

"We were,"  says Ann.

 

"Yes, Catlin and I are getting married on Christmas Eve."

 

"Sue Ellen, that's wonderful,"  Courtney says.  "Congratulations."

 

"Thank you, Courtney,"  Sue Ellen says.

 

Courtney's cell phone rings.  She takes the phone from her pocket and looks at it.  "Oh, excuse me, I have to take this.  It's Jacob's school."

 

"Alright,"  Sue Ellen says.

 

Courtney walks into the foyer to answer her phone.  "Hello?  Yes, this is Mrs. Ewing.  What?  Oh, no.  Well, is he okay?  Yes, thank you, I'll be right there."  She ends the call and puts her phone away.  

 

"Courtney, is everything alright?"  Ann asks, walking into the foyer with Sue Ellen.  

 

Courtney turns to her and sighs.  "Jacob got in a fight with another boy at school.  He's in trouble.  I have to go down there."

 

"Oh, sweety, I'm sorry,"  Ann says.

 

"I'll be back soon."  Courtney turns and walks out.

Braddock Elementary School....

 25 minutes later, Courtney is seated in the principle's office at Braddock Elementary, when a woman of about 40 walks in.  "Mrs. Ewing, sorry to have kept you waiting," she says.

 

"No problem, Mrs. Corrigan, I've only been here about five minutes.  Is my son alright?"

 

"Yes, he's fine, it's nothing serious, he and and another little boy just got into a little tussle in the cafeteria during lunch.  However, Jacob will have to be disciplined for this."

 

"Yes, I understand."

 

"Mrs. Ewing, as this is only Jacob's second day at Braddock Elementary, there are some things that concern me."

 

"Like what?"  Courtney asks.

 

"Well, a couple of your son's teachers have noticed that Jacob daydreams in class, and when he isn't daydreaming, he's being disrupted.  And, as I said, since this is only Jacob's second day here, I'm really concerned that this behavior might continue and eventually lead to serious problems.  Now, I understand that you and your husband just gained custody of Jacob?"

 

"Yes.  He was adopted, but his adoptive parents were physically abusive."

 

"I'm very sorry to hear that,"  Mrs, Corrigan says, sympathetically.  "Mrs. Ewing, it might be a good idea that you have Jacob see a child psychologist."

 

"A......psychologist?"  Courtney asks.

 

"Yes.  A child in Jacob's circumstances, suffering abuse, and then the upheaval of having to move to a new home, new city, new family, and new school, often causes emotional trauma in children.  And, it's best to seek help early, before things get out of hand."

 

"Emotional trauma?"  Courtney asks.  "I can definitely see signs of that.  Jacob is very quiet and withdrawn.  He's been with us for more than a week now, and he still hasn't opened up to us."

 

"If you would like, I can give you the names of a couple of very good child psychologists,"  says Mrs. Corrigan.

 

"Thank you.  My husband has a friend who is a very prominent psychologist, Dr. Ryan Benson."

 

"Yes, I know Dr. Benson, and he's very good."  

 

"Mrs. Corrigan, thank you for letting me know, and, I can assure you, my husband and I will definitely get some help for Jacob before these problems get out of hand."

The Krebbs Ranch....

Dylan is working alone in the stables at the Krebbs ranch that afternoon.  As he works, Dylan's hands begin to shake, the craving for a drink becoming stronger with each passing minute.  Finally unable to stand the cravings any longer, Dylan stops his work, reaches into his pocket, and pulls out his flask.  Opening the flask, he takes a sip as Ben, the young ranch hand he'd almost had an altercation with the day before, comes into the stables.  Dylan takes a second, then a third sip from the flask of whiskey, his back to Ben, unaware that the teenager is watching him.  After taking a fourth sip, Dylan's craving has been temporarily satisfied, so he replaces the cap and puts

the flask back into his pocket.  He turns around, and is immediately startled to find Ben standing there looking at him.  

 

 

"Well, now,"  Ben says.  "What was that you was just doin' there, Dylan?  And what did you just shove in your pocket?  Kinda looked like a whiskey flask to me.  You drinkin' on the job, Dylan?  Now, I wonder what Mr. Ray would say if he knew he had a drunk workin' on this ranch, around his horses and all this dangerous equipment."

 

"What the hell are you doing, Murray?  Spying on me?"  Asks an angry Dylan.

 

 

"I just come in here,"  Ben says.  "And it's a damn good thing I did, because now I know your little secret, Baxter.  Now I know why you're always actin' so nervous and irritable.  Why you're always sneakin' off to be by yourself.  It's 'cause you can't stand not takin' a drink for too long."

 

"You don't know what you're talking about,"  says Dylan.

 

"I know what I saw.  You threatened to have me fired yesterday, Baxter.  But I wonder who would get the boot from ol' man Krebbs if he knew the truth."

 

"I'd say you were lying."

 

Ben smiles.  "Your own brother knows somethin's wrong with you, so I think they'd believe me over you.  So looks like I got the upper hand here, Dylan, ol' boy.  And I wonder what it'd be worth to you for me to keep my mouth shut about your little problem."

 

 

 

Dylan looks at the boy, anger rising up inside of him, but knowing he will have to give in to whatever Ben wants of him temporarily to keep him quiet.  But privately, Dylan knows he somehow has to get Ben Murray off this ranch to keep him from telling Ray about his drinking.

 

Ben looks at Dylan and smiles deviously, knowing he has Dylan by the throat....

 

 

END OF EPISODE 155....