EPISODE 159 - Hitting Bottom

"No.......dear God, what have I done?"  Dylan cries as he stares horrified at Alex's car sitting in a ditch after the vehicle had overturned three times, Alex and his date, Bridget McKinnon, both unconscious in the car.  Still heavily intoxicated, but lucid enough to realize what has happened, Dylan begins to panic.  "Oh God, what am I gonna do?"  He asks himself.  Taking his phone from his pocket, he opens his contacts, and, with some effort due to his alcohol consumption, he pulls up Conner's number in the phone, and speed dials the number.

 

 

 

 

 

Meanwhile....the Krebbs Ranch....

Conner is coming out of his bedroom when his cell phone rings.  Taking the phone from his pocket, he looks at it and sees it's Dylan calling and quickly answers.  "Dylan, thank God, where are you?"

 

"Conner, oh my God, Conner......"  Dylan cries on the other end of the line.

 

"Dylan......Dylan, where the hell are you?"

Braddock Road....

"Conner, please, I need some help,"  Dylan again cries, almost hysterically.  "Please help me...."

 

"Dylan, just calm down,"  Conner says.  "Tell me where you are."

 

"Conner, please come help me,"  Dylan begs.  "Oh my God, I don't know what to do......I think they're dead."

 

The Krebbs Ranch....

 

"Dylan, who's dead?  What are you talking about?"  Conner asks, coming down the stairs.

 

"Conner.......please just help me......I think I killed someone....."

 

"Oh my God,"  Conner says.  "Dylan, listen to me.  Do you know where you are?  Can you tell me EXACTLY where you are?"

 

"I'm......I'm on Braddock Road."

 

"What part of Braddock Road?"

 

"S.....South.....fork......near South....fork. Conner, oh God, you gotta help me.  I'm so scared."

 

"Dylan, just stay right where you are.  And stay on the phone with me, okay?  I'm on my way,"  Conner says.  He walks into the living room, opens the desk drawer and takes out a set of keys to Ray's truck, then quickly rushes out of the house.

The Oil Baron's Ball....

 

 

 

 

 

"Oh my God,"  Bobby gasps.  "Wendell."

 

Back on stage, Jeremy continues.  "I realize that most of you are shocked to see me back, but I can assure you, I AM back, and I intend to once again be a driving force in this town, along with my new protege, a young man you all know......... Tripp McKay.........my grandson."  

Jeremy's revelation that Tripp is his grandson results in gasps and mouths falling open in shock all over the room, but no one present is more stunned than Tripp himself!!

 

"Yes, that's right,"  Jeremy continues.  "I know that all of you in this room are surprised to see me, and probably even more surprised by my announcement that Tripp McKay is my grandson.  But it's true.  Thirty years ago, I discovered that I had a daughter I had never known about.  My daughter is Tripp's mother, Sharon.  A daughter that I was denied the chance of getting to know because, as all of you are aware, I spent a number of years in prison.  I was paroled quite some time ago, and have spent that time rebuilding my fortune that was taken from me.  And having done that, I'm back to reclaim the position that was stolen from me nearly thirty years ago. And to settle a few old scores.  Thank you."  Jeremy smiles, then walks off stage, leaving the audience in complete shock.

"What the hell was that all about?"  Asks Tripp.  "Why would you get up there and make that ridiculous announcement about being my grandfather?"

 

"It's not ridiculous, Tripp.  It's absolutely true,"  Jeremy says.  "Your mother, Sharon, is my daughter.  You can ask her if you don't believe me.  Your grandmother, Caroline Edwards, worked as my secretary."

 

"Wendell!"  Comes Bobby's angry voice from behind Jeremy.  

 

The old man turns around to find Bobby, Ann, John Ross, and Christopher standing before him.  Jeremy smiles.  "Well, well.  Bobby Ewing.  We meet again after all these years.  It's been a long time."

 

"Not long enough,"  Bobby says.  "When they hauled your ass off to prison, I had hoped I would never again lay eyes on you."

 

"What the hell do you want here, Wendell?"  John Ross asks.

 

Jeremy looks at the younger man and smiles again.  "John Ross," he says.  "And Christopher.  Well, you two have grown up to be very handsome young men.  Bobby, you must be very proud, as I'm sure J.R. would be, as well."

 

"Don't you DARE mention my father's name,"  says John Ross.

 

"Wendell, I'm gonna issue this warning to you, right here and now,"  Bobby says.  "The best thing you can do is just pack up and get the hell out of Dallas.  Just go back to wherever it is you came from.  But if you DO decide to stay here.........you keep as far away from me and my family as you possibly can.  You come anywhere near someone I love.......I'll kill you."

 

"Threatening my life, Bobby?"  Jeremy asks.

 

"Not a threat.......a PROMISE."

 

"John Ross, you asked me what I wanted here,"  says Jeremy.  "The answer is simple..........revenge," he continues, then walks away.

 

John Ross looks at a still stunned Tripp.  "So, you're Wendell's grandson," he says.  

 

"I didn't know about this anymore than you did,"  says Tripp.

 

"You're trying to tell us that you had no idea that Jeremy Wendell was your grandfather?"  Christopher asks.

 

 

 

 

 

"None,"  replies Tripp.  "But now that I DO know, I plan to be by Jeremy's side as he destroys the Ewings, and your company."

 

 

 

 

 

"Then you bring it on, McKay,"  Christopher says.  "We'll take you and that broken down old man on and we'll crush you both."

 

"And you can count on that,"  John Ross adds.  

 

"We'll just see who gets crushed,"  Tripp says, then walks away.

 

"Bobby, what are you gonna do?"  Ann asks.

 

"Well I'm sure as hell not gonna sit around and wait for Wendell and McKay to make the first move,"  Bobby replies.

 

Meanwhile, the Ewings aren't the only ones in the room stunned by Jeremy's return.  Across the room at the Barnes table, Afton is still reeling from what just happened, while Cliff, who had known for months that Jeremy was back in Dallas, seems less than surprised.

 

 

"Jeremy Wendell.....that's a man I haven't given a thought to in years,"  says Afton.

 

"I've heard of this Jeremy Wendell,"  Brad says.  "What can you tell me about him?"

 

"He used to be head of Westar many years ago,"  Cliff replies.  "One thing to know about Wendell is that he's a very ruthless, and dangerous man."

 

"And did you hear what he said?"  Afton asks.  "He's Tripp's grandfather?  Cliff, do you realize what that means?  Jeremy Wendell is Hunter's great-grandfather."

 

"Yeah, I heard,"  says Cliff.

 

"You don't seem very surprised."

 

"Afton, nothing that happens in this town surprises me anymore.  Wendell could also be invaluable to us.  I think I'll go say hello.  Brad, would you like to come with me?"

 

"Sure, why not?  I'd love to meet the man of the hour."  

 

Afton sighs and shakes her head as Cliff and Brad get up from their seats at the table.   A moment later, Jeremy is standing near the bar talking to some of his old friends in the oil industry when Cliff and Brad walk up.

 

"Jeremy Wendell,"  Cliff says with a smile.  "How the heck are you?"

 

"Hello, Cliff."

 

"Jeremy, I'd like for you to meet my son, Bradley Stone.  Brad, this is Jeremy Wendell."

 

"Mr. Wendell, it's a pleasure,"  Brad says, shaking Jeremy's hand.  "I've heard quite a lot about you over the years."

 

"Bradley."

 

"Well, now that we're all acquainted, I look forward to us doing business together, Jeremy," Cliff says.  "Like in the old days.  But I have to say I'm quite surprised that you revealed this news on stage here tonight, and especually the news about Tripp being your grandson."

 

"Yes, I think that shocked the hell out of everyone," says Brad.

 

"If you think that was a shocker, you aint seen nothin' yet,"  Jeremy says.  "I have a few more surprises up my sleeve."  Smiling, Jeremy walks away, leaving Cliff and Brad to wonder what the man is up to.

Braddock Road....

are you alright?"  Conner asks.

 

"Conner......I......I'm sorry......I'm so sorry,"  Dylan cries.  "I didn't mean it. I didn't mean it."

 

"Okay, okay, just calm down,"  Conner says.  He looks over and sees the car sitting in the ditch.  "Stay right here."  He runs over to the car and sees the two occupants inside.  "Oh dear God," he says.  "Alex.  Oh God, Dylan, what've you done?  What the hell have you done?"  Conner walks to Alex's side of the car, reaches in through the broken driver's window and feels of Alex's neck for a pulse.  He breathes a sigh of relief when he detects a pulse, and sees Bridget's chest rise and fall, indicating that she is alive and breathing.  Conner's thought then returns to his brother.  Leaving the two teenage victims, he runs back over to his brother.  

 

"They're dead?"  Dylan asks in tears.

 

"No, they're alive.  Dylan, we have to call 911.  Have any cars come by since the accident?"

 

"No.  I.....I don't think so."

 

"Okay, good,"  says Conner.  "It's New Year's Eve, and late.  Hopefully, there's no traffic out here tonight.  Dylan, listen to me.  I want you to listen to me VERY carefully.  I want you to go and get in the truck.  I'm gonna get you home."

 

"But...."

 

"Just get in the truck,"  Conner says.  "Come on."  Conner helps his brother to the truck and helps him in.  Conner then gets into the driver's seat of the truck himself.  Quickly turning the truck around, he speeds off down Braddock Road toward the Krebbs Ranch.

A couple of minutes later....

Conner brings Ray's truck to a screeching halt in front of the Krebbs home.  "Dylan," he says, but his brother simply sits there, almost as if in a complete daze.  "DYLAN!"  He calls loudly, snapping Dylan out of his trance.  "Listen.  I want you to get in the house.  Go up to your room, and stay there.  Understand?"

 

"Conner, I....."

 

"Dylan, do as I say! Get out."

 

Slowly, Dylan gets out of the truck, holding his jacket in his hand, and, with difficulty, makes his way toward the house.  Conner also gets out of the truck.  Dylan turns and looks at his brother.

 

"Dylan, go on,"  Conner says.  "Get in the house.  Go up to your room, and stay there.  If Ray and Donna come home, don't say anything to them about what happened.  Just go to sleep or something.  Understand what I'm saying?"  Dylan simply looks at him.  Conner walks over to his brother and shakes him.  "Do you understand?"

 

Dylan nods.  

 

"Good,"  Conner says.  "Go on in."  Conner quickly takes off on foot, running toward the front gate of the Krebbs

 Ranch as Dylan watches, still intoxicated and emotionally traumatized by the tragic events of the night.  After a few seconds of standing in the front yard, shivering in the cold, Dylan finally makes his way up the front steps and into the house.  A couple of minutes later, he walks into his darkened bedroom and looks around.  After a short pause, he staggers over to his bed and takes a seat.  Again he looks around his bedroom, not really aware of what was 

 happening.  Dylan buries his head in his hands and begins to sob, softly at first, then, a few seconds later, he starts crying hysterically.  

Meanwhile....

Conner is running as fast as he can down Braddock Road in an attempt to get back to the site of the accident before the police arrive, as he has called 911 to report the accident after leaving the Krebbs Ranch on foot.  Quickly getting out of breath in the freezing cold night air, Conner continues pushing himself, running so hard and fast that he begins to feel as if he will pass out.  Finally, he is unable to run any longer, he stops, only a quarter of a mile from the accident site.  Feeling sick, he begins to throw up on the side of the road.  Then, headlights become visible as a car approaches.  Seeing the young man on the road, the car, which contains a man, who is driving, a woman, and two children, a boy of about 12 and a girl of about 9 or 10, pulls over.

 

"Hey, are you alright?"  The man asks.

 

"I......I.....an accident.....down the road......"  Conner says, breathing hard.  

 

Looking down the road in the distance, the man can see two cars.  "Get in," he tells Conner, much to his wife's dismay.  

 

Conner gets into the backseat with the boy and girl, and the man drives the short distance down the road and pulls over on the opposite side of the road as Alex's car.  "Amy, stay here with the kids, and call 911," the man tells his wife.  Getting out of the car, the man, followed by Conner, gets out of the car and runs across the street to Alex's car.  The man checks the two teenage passengers for a pulse.  Just then, the sounds of sirens can be heard in the distance.

Pamela's apartment....

 Justin and Pamela walk into Pamela's apartment that night after returning from the Oil Baron's Ball.  The young babysitter is sitting on the sofa watching television.  "Hi, Beth,"  Pamela says to the girl.

 

"Mrs. McKay, you're home earlier than I expected,"  Beth says.

 

"Yes, we are.  How are the kids?"

 

"Just fine.  They've both been asleep for a couple of hours now.  I just checked on them a few minutes ago."

 

"Good.  Well, you can go on home now,"  Pamela says.  

 

"Is there anything else I can do for you?"  Beth asks.

 

"No, thank you, though.  You go on home and Happy New Year."

 

"Happy New Year to you too, Mrs. McKay.  Mr. Ewing.  Good night."

 

"Night,"  Justin says as the girl grabs her coat and leaves.   Justin takes a seat on the sofa and props his feet up on the coffee table. 

 

"I'll be right back,"  Pamela says.  "I'm gonna check on the kids."

 

"Okay,"  Justin says.  He rubs his temples, and a moment later, Pamela returns to the living room.  "Kids okay?"

 

"Oh, yeah, both are sound asleep,"  Pamela replies.

 

"Well, that was quite a night, huh?"  Justin asks.

 

"That's putting it mildly."

 

 

"Can ya believe that old guy gettin' up there and makin' that announcement?  That he's Tripp's grandfather.  My Uncle Bobby and John Ross sure didn't seem too happy to see him, whoever he is."

 

"He's Jeremy Wendell,"  says Pamela.  "I can't believe you've never heard of him."

 

"Well, sorry, darlin', but I hadn't,"  Justin says.

 

"I don't guess you would.  I forget, you didn't grow up around the Ewings, and having only lived here for three years, you'd have had no reason to know about Wendell."

 

"Yeah, so who is he?"  Justin asks.

 

Pamela looks at him and smiles, taking a seat beside him.  "Jeremy Wendell use to be head of Westar, until about thirty years ago.  From all the stories I've  heard, he was quite a force to be reckoned with in his day.  He was ruthless, ambitious, a cutthroat, and even cruel.  He made a lot of enemies in Dallas, among them, your father and your Uncle Bobby."

 

"So, Wendell was in prison?"

 

"Oh, yes,"  Pamela says, putting her head on Justin's shoulder.  "For quite a long time."

 

"What for?"

 

"For starting a range war.......and attempted murder, I think.  Wendell started a range war with the Ewings at Southfork.  The way I understand the story, Wendell had Tripp's grandfather, Carter McKay working for him.  The two bought Ray Krebbs's ranch next to Southfork and tried to strong arm the Ewings into selling them Section 40, which contains a very large pool of oil.  From what I've heard, Christopher was almost killed in the crossfire during the war when he was just a little boy.  After that, McKay worked with the Ewings to set up Wendell in this sting operation, and he was arrested.  He went to prison for years on a very long list of charges.  Suffice it to say, no one in Dallas thought they would ever see Wendell's face in this town again, especially the Ewings."

 

"So, my fam'ly got him sent to prison?"  Justin asks.  "I wonder what he wants, comin' back here after all this time."

 

"My guess is.......Wendell wants to get even.  To settle the score with Bobby and the rest of the Ewings," says Pamela.  "And dear God, the fact that he announced to the world that Tripp is his grandson......the fact that Jeremy Wendell is my son's great-grandfather sends chills through me."

 

"Since Wendell has a grudge against the Ewings, and since he's Tripp's granddaddy.......you think he might help McKay fight you for custody of Hunter?"  Justin asks.

 

Pamela sighs deeply, then looks at Justin.  "You can pretty much count on it,"  she replies sadly, a look of fear on her face.

Braddock Road....

Back on Braddock Road not far from Southfork, several police cars line each side of the street and an ambulance is parked alongside of the scene of the accident.  As Conner watches, Alex and Bridget are removed from the wrecked car, placed on stretchers, and loaded into the ambulance, both teens still unconscious.  The rear doors of the ambulance are closed, and the vehicle speeds away toward Braddock.

 

A Braddock Sheriff's deputy approaches Conner.  "You were drivin' the other vehicle?"  The deputy asks.  

 

"Yes,"  Conner replies.

 

"Okay, tell me what happened.  From the looks of things, you must've crossed over into their lane."

 

"Yes, I......I did."

 

paramedics take the two victims from the back of the ambulance and wheel them into the hospital.

"What have we got?"  Asks an awaiting female doctor in the emergency department.

 

"Two accident victims, one male, approximately 16-18 years of age," replies one of the paramedics.  "Possible head trauma.  Female victim, also 16-18 years of age, some abrasions, and possible head trauma."

 

"Okay, get the boy in room 4, the girl in 5," says the doctor.  The paramedics take the teens into two examining rooms and the doctor follows.  "Any I.D. on them?"  The doctor asks as she opens one of Alex's eyes and looks at his pupil.

 

"Yeah, I have the boy's wallet here,"  replies the paramedic, opening the wallet.  "Alexander Walton.  3700 Braddock Road."

 

"3700 Braddock Road?"  A nurse asks.  "That's the Southfork Ranch."

 

"Southfork?  The Ewings?"  The doctor asks, she and the paramedic exchanging looks.
Southfork....later....

 

Bobby, Ann, John Ross, Krystina, Christopher, Courtney, Lucas,  Heather, and Lucy all walk into  Southfork later, having returned from the Oil Baron's Ball.  "Well, I don't know about the rest of you, but I'm exhausted,"  says Lucy.  "I'm going to bed.  Goodnight, everyone."

 

"Night, Lucy,"  Ann says as Lucy heads to her bedroom.  Ann and the others walk into the den, where Bobby heads straight for the bar to pour himself a drink.

 

"I'm with Lucy,"  Heather says.  "I'm completely wiped out, and it's almost two in the morning, so I'm goin' up to bed. Lucas?"

 

"I'm with ya, babe.  Night, everyone."

 

"Goodnight,"  Ann says, Lucas and Heather heading up the stairs.

 

"Uncle Bobby, what are we gonna do about Wendell?"  John Ross asks.

 

Bobby looks at his nephew.  "That's a good question.  I wish I had a good answer."

 

"Why do you have to DO anything?"  Courtney asks.  

 

"Because Jeremy Wendell is very dangerous,"  Christopher replies.  "He almost cost this family everything once before.  And did cost us Ewing Oil."

 

"And almost cost ME my son," Bobby says.

 

"What do you mean?"  Courtney asks.

 

"Wendell and Carter McKay started a range war here at Southfork,"  says John Ross.  "They did this to try and get their hands on the oil underneath Section 40."

 

"And Wendell would stop at nothing to get what he wanted,"  Bobby says.  "We even had to send John Ross and Christopher away from Southfork to keep them safe.  But J.R., thinking the danger had passed, brought the boys home."

 

"I went out riding, looking for my Dad, and one of Wendell's henchmen took some shots at me,"  says Christopher.

 

"Christopher's horse was spooked and threw him,"  Bobby says.  "He suffered a concussion, but other than that, he was fine, thank God."

 

"Good Lord, this man shot at a child?"  Ann asks.

 

"Yes.  Fred Hughes,"  replies Bobby.  "Scum of the Earth."

 

"Do you really think that Wendell could pose a threat to this family, even now?"  Krystina asks.  "I mean, he looked to me like he's a pretty old man.  Despite what he said about wanting revenge, could he really still be dangerous at his age?"

 

"Age duttin' matter,"  says John Ross.  "I've heard stories about Jeremy Wendell just about all my life, and from everything I've heard, and what I saw tonight, the man is as dangerous now as he ever was, and as much a threat to us as he ever was."

 

"Dad, what do you think?"  Christopher asks.  "You knew Wendell.........do you think he could still be dangerous to us and to Ewing Oil?"

 

"I agree with John Ross,"  Bobby says.  "I think Wendell is as dangerous as ever.  Maybe even more.  After all, I helped send him to prison for years.  And he's had a long, LONG time to build up all that anger and even more hatred against this family than he had before.  And now, he's got Tripp McKay, his grandson, by his side.  And McKay has his own vendetta against the Ewings."

 

At that moment, Jimmy walks into the room.  "Hey, guys," he says.  "How was the Ball?"

 

"Eventful, to say the least,"  replies Christopher.

 

"How are the boys?  Did they behave?"  Courtney asks.

 

"Oh, yeah, they were great.  They wanted to watch Christmas movies all evening.  They've been asleep for a couple of hours now."

 

The phone in the foyer rings, startling the family.  "Now who on Earth could that be at this hour?"  Ann asks.  She walks into the foyer and picks up the phone from the table, answering the late night call as the others look on curiously.  "Hello,"  Ann says.  "Yes, he is.  Just a moment.  John Ross, it's for you."

 

"For me?"  John Ross asks.  He walks over and takes the phone.  "Hello?  Yes, this is John Ross Ewing.  Yeah, Alex Walton is my son.  Who's this?"  John Ross listens to the person on the other end of the line for a moment, a worried look coming over his face.  "Oh my God.  How bad?  I'll be right there."  John Ross puts the phone down.

 

"John Ross, what is it?"  Krystina asks.  "Has something happened to Alex?"

 

"That was Braddock Medical Center.  Alex and Bridget were in an accident tonight."

 

"Oh God."

 

"How bad?"  Ann asks.

 

"I don't know.  I have to get to the hospital."

 

"I'm coming with you,"  says Krystina.  

 

"No, darlin', it's late, and you must be completely exhausted by now.  You go on up and go to bed.  I'll call you."

 

"John Ross, I wanna go with you."

 

"Krystina, he's right,"  Bobby says.  "You're almost eight months pregnant, you need to take care of yourself and the baby."

 

"I'll call you, I promise,"  John Ross says, kissing her.

 

"John Ross, I'm coming with you,"  Christopher says.  

 

"So am I,"  says Bobby.  

 

"Call us as soon as you know somethin',"  Ann says.

 

"We will,"  Bobby says, leaving with John Ross and Christopher.

Braddock Medical Center....a short time later....

 

 

 

 

 

"Alright, everybody just calm down,"  Bobby says.  "Now why don't we just wait and find out what happened before we start placing blame?  The important thing right now is finding out whether or not the kids are okay."

 

"My Dad's right,"  says Christopher.  "All this bickering itn't  helping anyone, least of all Alex and Bridget."

 

 

them.  "Bobby," he says.

 

"Conner?"

 

"How are Alex and the girl?"  

 

"What the hell are you doin' here?"  John Ross asks.  "And how'd you know about what happened to Alex and Bridget?"

 

Before Conner is able to answer John Ross's question, a female doctor comes through a set of double doors and walks over to them.  "Excuse me, are you the family of Alexander Walton?"  

 

"Yes, I'm John Ross Ewing.  Alex is my son .  How bad's he hurt?"

 

"And my granddaughter, Bridget McKinnon,"  Donna Love says.  "She was with Alex."

 

"Bridget suffered a mild concussion, and some minor bruises and abrasions," the doctor replies.  "We're keeping her over night for observation, and to run some routine tests, but I'm confident she'll be fine."

 

"Thank God,"  Donna Love says, she and Marley breathing a sigh of relief.

 

"And Alex?"  John Ross asks.  "What about my son?"

 

"Your son's injuries are more serious, Mr. Ewing."

 

"Serious?  What the hell does that mean?"  John Ross asks, deeply worried.

 

"Alex has suffered a more severe concussion than Bridget, and he also has a broken rib as well as a sprained wrist.  We're doing some more tests right now to make sure that the broken rib or any bone fragments haven't punctured a lung.  I'm also very concerned about Alex's head injury.  Our CT scan revealed some bruising on the occipital lobe of Alex's brain."

 

"He's......my son is bleedin' on his brain?"  John Ross asks.

 

"Yes.  We're running some more tests as we speak to determine how severe the bleeding is,"  the doctor says.  "If the bleeding is only minor and contained to one small area, we can use medications to help decrease any swelling around the bleeding and to keep Alex's blood pressure at an optimal level, and to prevent seizure."

 

"Seizure?  Dear God, you're sayin' my son could have a seizure?"

 

"What if the bleeding isn't minor?"  Christopher asks.

 

"Then.......we would have to perform surgery to relieve pressure on the brain caused by the bleeding,"  the doctor says, much to the horror of everyone, especially Conner, who is struggling to hold back tears.

 

"No,"  John Ross says, shaking his head in anger as he runs his hand through his hair.  "You're.....you're tellin' me that my son's brain is bleedin', and if the bleedin' is serious, then you'd have to operate......on his BRAIN?"

 

"Yes,"  the doctor replies.  

 

"No, this can't be happenin'.  It can't be."

 

"Doctor, just how bad is this?"  Bobby asks.  

 

"We won't know any more until we get the results back of the MRI they're doing on Alex right now."

 

"And when will that be?"  John Ross asks.

 

"Soon,"  replies the doctor.  "I put a rush on the results."

 

"When can I see my son?"  

 

"In a few minutes.  I'll let you know.  And.....Bridget's family, you can see her now.  We're getting her prepped to be moved upstairs to a room.  Follow me."

 

The doctor turns and heads down the hall, followed by Donna Love.  "We'll be praying for Alex,"  Marley says as she walks away with her mother, following the doctor to see Bridget.

 

Bobby places a reassuring hand on John Ross's shoulder.  

 

 

"So, Conner, what are you doing here?"  Christopher asks.  "And how'd you know Alex and Bridget had been in an accident?"

 

A nervous Conner looks at him.  "I, umm.......I have a, umm, police scanner,"  the young man lies.  "I heard the news on it."

 

"What the hell could've happen to cause this accident?"  John Ross wonders aloud.  "I know Alex is eighteen, he's young, but, he never tries too fast or carelessly.  I told him the first speedin' ticket he got, I was takin' that car away from him.  What could've caused him to wreck?"

 

"John Ross, it could've been most anything,"  says Bobby.  "If the accident happened on Braddock Road, you know how that road is, especially at night.  A deer could've ran out in front of Alex's car for all we know."

 

Conner looks on at his three cousins and listens as Bobby explains to John Ross a possible cause of Alex's crash, all the while his heart pounding with fear as he realizes that, soon, the rest of the Ewings would have to learn that another car was involved.......HIS car.  But Conner knew that, for the sake of his brother, no one could ever know the truth that Dylan was driving his car while drunk.

Meanwhile....the Krebbs Home....

of the accident.......of the headlights of Alex's car coming toward him as he swerved into Alex's lane.  Dylan moans in his sleep, then his eyes open. 

 

After a few seconds, he closes his eyes again and turns over on his side. His eyes begin to twitch, as well as his mouth, as he slips back into sleep 

 and his disturbing dreams continue.  "No,"  he calls out softly in his restless sleep.  Again, visions of those headlights coming directly toward him, and the horrid sound of screeching tires, haunt Dylan.  In his mind, he 

 also hears the sound of a loud crash........the crash of Alex's car as it overturned.  He again moans out in his sleep.

 Suddenly, his eyes spring open.  Dylan lays in bed for a few moments, staring straight ahead.  After a while, he sits up in bed.  His hands are shaking as he craves another drink.  Standing to his feet, he staggers into the bathroom and looks at himself in the mirror.  His mind is confused.  Did an accident happen tonight?  He wonders to himself, unsure of whether the images he was seeing in his mind were a dream or were real.  He turns on the cold water in the sink and splashes some on his face, then grabs a towel and wipes his face.  His hands are still shaking.  Opening the medicine cabinet, Dylan takes down the mouthwash bottle he had previously concealed some whiskey.  Taking the cap off the bottle, he sees there is a small amount left.  He quickly turns the bottle up and drinks it.  But that  

tiny amount was not nearly enough to satisfy Dylan's overwhelming craving for alcohol.  Dylan turns and looks into his bedroom.  He closes his eyes, and again, his mind is filled with images of those headlights coming toward him, and the sound of screeching tires followed by a loud crash.  A look of bewilderment comes over Dylan's face.  "No," he cries softly. "Dear God, what happened tonight?  What did I do?  God, what did I do?" 

 

Dylan walks over to his shower, reaches in, and turns the water on.  He quickly takes off his shirt, but with slight difficulty because he is still intoxicated.  Unzipping his pants, Dylan slips and falls to the floor, landing on his butt next to the toilet, his back against the wall.  Dazed for a few seconds, he slips his pants off, then his boxers and socks while still sitting on the bathroom floor.  Slowly, Dylan pulls himself to his feet and steps into the shower.

He stands there for a long time as the water runs over his body, and he begins to sober up a bit.  Each time he closes his eyes, he can see flashes, images of what had happened earlier that night, although none of the images 

seem complete.  But standing in the shower, he remembers a car.  A familiar car.  In his mind he sees two people in the car, and, he believes, one of the people was Alex, John Ross's son.  "No. No, no."  He says to himself, tears in his

 Dylan slowly opens his bedroom door and looks down the hall.  Ray and Donna's bedroom door is closed, and so is Conner's.  After hesitating a few seconds, Dylan quietly makes his way down the hall, carrying a backpack.  Going 

up to Ray and Donna's door, he listens.  He can hear the sounds of Ray snoring inside.  He looks at his phone.  3:45 a.m.  Believing everyone to be asleep, Dylan quietly slips down the stairs and pauses again in the foyer.  Still feeling the effects of all the alcohol he had consumed hours earlier, Dylan's head is spinning.  He looks around the house.....first the living room, then the dining room.  He fights back tears.  "I'm so sorry," he says very softly.  "Ray, Donna, and Conner.  God, I'm so sorry."  Dylan realizes that he has to get away from here.......FAR away.  And, he has to have a drink, and soon, or he feels as if he will explode.  He hesitates again, taking another look around the house he has called home for the past two years.  With tears in his eyes, he quietly walks to the front door, opens it, and slips out of the house.  

 

 

Braddock Medical Center....the next morning

"No one thought to call me?"  Jenna angrily asks.  "No one thought to even call me and tell me that my grandson had been in a terrible accident.  What about Charlie?  Did any of you think to call her and tell her about her son?"

 

"Yes, Charlie has been notified and she's on her way,"  Bobby replies.

 

"Does anybody need anything?"  Heather asks.  "Some coffee, maybe?"

 

Before anyone can answer Heather's question, Alex's doctor walks into the room.  "Excuse me, Mr. Ewing?"  The woman says.

 

"My son.....how is he?"  John Ross asks, standing and walking over to her.

 

"Our latest CT scan shows that the bleeding is causing pressure on Alex's brain, and the medications we're using aren't getting the bleeding under control fast enough."

 

"What does that mean?"  Jenna asks.

 

"It means that we have to operate,"  replies the doctor.

 

"Operate?"  John Ross asks.  "You tellin' me that you're gonna have to operate on my son's brain?"

 

"Yes.  We have to alleviate the pressure the bleeding is causing."

 

"And what if you don't?  What if you wait and see if that medicine will help?"

 

"Mr. Ewing, we don't have that kind of time,"  the doctor says.  "If we don't alleviate the pressure....... Alex could die, or, there could be irreparable brain damage. Your son could end up partially paralyzed."

 

"Oh dear God, no,"  John Ross cries.  "This can't be happenin'.  Can't be."

 

"Doctor, you have to operate immediately?"  Krystina asks.

 

"Yes.  Time is of the essence in this case.  I've already got a call in to Texas Health Presbyterian Hospital in Dallas.  They have one of the best neurosurgeons in the state on staff there, and he's en route here now with some of his team."

 

"What are my grandson's chances if you do the surgery?"  Jenna asks.  

 

"Alex has a very good chance of making a full recovery, IF we do the surgery immediately.  The longer we wait, the more damage can be done.  But I warn you, this is a very risky surgery, and there's a chance, even with the surgery, there could be brain damage."

 

"Do it,"  John Ross says quickly.  "Do the damned surgery.  Just save my son's life."

 

"I'll get the consent forms for you to sign,"  the doctor says.

 

"No, wait,"  Jenna says.  "John Ross, you can't just authorize this kind of surgery without my daughter here.  We should wait until Charlie arrives and she can make the decision."

 

"Didn't you hear what that doctor just said?"  John Ross angrily asks, walking over to Jenna.  "If they don't do the surgery immediately, then my son could die.  I am NOT gonna let that happen."

 

"Mom, they don't have time to wait for Charlie to get here, but I know she would give the okay for this surgery.  And you know it, too,"  Lucas says.

 

John Ross looks at the doctor.  "Get me those forms to sign or whatever," he says.

 

The doctor nods, then leaves the room.   Krystina puts her arm around John Ross and the two embrace.

The Krebbs Ranch....

 Conner comes down the stairs at the Krebbs home that morning and walks into the kitchen to find Donna seated at the breakfast table.  

 

"Good morning,"  Donna says.  

 

"Morning,"  Conner says, taking a seat at the table.  

 

"You and Dylan both slept late this morning."

 

"He hasn't come down?"  

 

"No.  How'd it go last night while we were at the Ball?"

 

Conner pours himself a glass of orange juice and looks at her.  "Where's Ray?"

 

"He's outside.  Bobby called, and Ray stepped out to talk to him.  He wasn't getting very good service in here,"  Donna replies.  "So you never answered my question.  How'd it go last night?  Or, maybe I should ask where YOU went last night."

 

"Where.....I went?"

 

"Yes.  Your car was gone when Ray and I got home from the Oil Baron's Ball, and you weren't here.  Dylan was sound asleep."

 

Before Conner can say anymore, Ray walks into the kitchen, a worried and sad look on his face.  

 

"Ray, what is it?"  Donna asks.

 

"Bad news,"  replies Ray.  "Alex and his date were in a car accident last night.  That's what was goin' on up Braddock Road when we came home last night."

 

"Oh Lord.  How bad?"

 

"Real bad.  The girl's injuries are not that serious, but Alex is another story."

 

"What did Bobby say?"  Asks a frightened Conner.  "Has Alex's condition gotten worse?"

 

Caught off guard by Conner's statement, Ray and Donna exchange looks.  "What do you mean, has his condition gotten worse?"  Ray asks.

 

"Conner, did you already know about the accident?"  Donna asks.

 

"Yeah. I knew."

 

"How?  Did you see it, or go down the road to where it happened last night?"  Ray asks.  "Donna and I know you weren't home when we got here last night.  Come to think of it, your car's not outside this mornin'."

 

"Conner, what's going on?"  Asks Donna.  

 

"It was........it was me,"  Conner says, his voice shaky as he tries to hold back his tears.  "The accident was my fault."

 

"Your fault?"  Ray asks.  "Son, I think you'd better explain that."

 

"The accident, it was my fault.  I went for a drive last night.  And, I dropped my phone on the floor of my car, and when I reached down to pick it up......I only took my eyes off the road for a second.  But, I swerved.  Alex's car went off the road and crashed.  I crashed my car in the ditch."

 

"You left your brother here, ALONE last night?"  Donna asks in an angry tone.  "After everything that's happened, and with his drinking?"

 

"Yes,"  Conner lies, nodding his head.

 

"Wait a minute,"  says Ray.  "Somethin's not addin' up here.  Dylan, you tellin' us the truth?"

 

"Why would I lie, Ray?  Dylan went up to bed, and I just went for a drive."

 

"Maybe we should go wake Dylan up and ask him."

 

"No!"  Conner protests.  "Like I said, he was asleep."  

 

"I'd still like to hear what Dylan has to say."  Ray leaves the kitchen and heads upstairs to Dylan's room.  

 

Donna looks across the table at the young man.  "Conner, what REALLY happened last night?"

 

"I already told you."

 

"Conner, I'm sorry, but I just don't believe your story."

 

At that moment, Ray returns to the kitchen.  "Dylan's gone."

 

Conner quickly stands to his feet.  "Gone?  What do you mean he's gone?"

 

"He's not in his room.  Bed's messed up like it's been slept in, but, no sign of Dylan."

 

"My God,"  Conner says.  He quickly brushes past Ray and hurries from the kitchen and up the stairs, bursting into his brother's bedroom.  He goes to Dylan's closet and opens it.  Dylan's back pack is gone and some of his clothes.  Rushing back down the stairs, Conner goes onto the front porch.  Dylan's car is still parked in the front yard.  After a moment's pause, Conner returns to the kitchen.  "Some of his things are gone," he tells Ray and Donna.  "Dylan's run away."

 

"Good Lord, why?"  Donna asks.  

 

"His car......"  Ray says.

 

 

 

 

"It's still out front,"  says Conner.

 

"Yeah, I took the key with me last night.  He couldn't have gotten very far on foot.  Come on.  Let's go look for him.  Donna, you stay here in case he comes back."  Ray kisses his wife, then he and Conner leave.

 

 

 

 

 

 

Meanwhile....downtown Dallas....

 A truck pulls up to a street corner in downtown Dallas that morning and comes to a stop.  The passenger door opens, and Dylan steps out.  "Thanks for the ride," he tells the driver, a man in his early 40s.  

 

"Yeah, no problem,"  the driver says.  "You sure you're gonna okay, kid?"

 

"Yeah, I'll be fine, thanks."

 

"Take care," the man says.  Dylan closes the truck's door, and the man drives away.  Dylan begins walking down the

street until he spots a liquor store on the next corner.  He pauses as he waits for traffic to pass, then crosses the street and walks into the store.  Walking over to a shelf, he begins looking at the various brands of bourbon and scotch, finally choosing a bottle of bourbon.  He takes it to the counter and sits it down in front of the cashier.

 

"This gonna be all for ya, man?"  The cashier asks.

 

"Yeah."

 "Got some I.D.?"  The cashier asks.

 

"Umm, yeah,"  Dylan replies.  He takes his wallet out and shows the cashier his driver's license, after which the man rings up the bottle of bourbon, placing it into a brown paper bag.  

 

"That'll be $19.79"

 

Dylan takes a $20 bill from his wallet and hands it to the young man.  "Keep the change," he says, then turns and   

walks out of the store.  Pausing for a few seconds outside the store, Dylan looks around at all the people walking by, carrying on about their day to day activities, and suddenly he felt more alone and isolated than ever before in his life.  He looks down at the bottle in his hand.  His craving for a drink is overwhelming.  After a few seconds, he heads down the street, then turns into an alley, where he stops, takes the bourbon out of the bag and opens it.  He quickly takes a sip, and almost immediately he feels a sense of relief.  He takes a second sip, then a third and a fourth, pausing only briefly.  He 

 Ray and Conner are driving slowly through downtown Braddock, searching for Dylan.  For the fourth time since leaving the Krebbs Ranch, Conner tries calling his brother on his cell phone.  He gets frustrated when Dylan doesn't answer.  "Goes straight to voicemail every time," he says.  "He wasn't in either of the bars here in town.  Ray, where could he be?"

 

"Your guess is as good as mine.  We didn't see him anywhere between here and home, and I can't see that he got very far on foot, so he must've gotten a ride from somebody.  Conner, I think the best thing for us to do is just to call the sheriff."

 

"No,"  Conner says.  

 

"Look, son, Dylan is out there somewhere, we have no idea where, and we have no idea what state of mind he's in right now.  If he's been without a drink for a few days, he could be......"  Ray pauses and looks at Conner.

 

"He could be what?"  Conner asks.

 

"He could be havin' withdrawals.  Maybe even DTs."

 

"Oh, God.  Ray, I'm so scared.  What if something happens to him?"

 

"That's why we need to call the police.  Get them involved,"  Ray says.  

 

"This is all my fault,"  Conner says.  

 

"This itn't anyone's fault.  No one's but the damned alcohol.  We're never gonna find him like this.  Let's get home.  I'll call the sheriff and have him meet us there.  Since Dylan left from the ranch, that's prob'ly the best place to start."

 

Conner sighs as he looks out the window at the people walking on the streets of Braddock, wishing that he could spot Dylan on one of these streets.

The Krebbs Ranch, a few minutes later....

 Ray brings his truck to a stop at the Krebbs home a short time later as he and Dylan arrive back home.  Both are surprised to see a Braddock sheriff's SUV parked in the front yard.  

 

"Well, the Sheriff sure got here fast.  He must've already been out this way,"  Ray says, he and Dylan getting out of the truck.  Walking into the house, they find Braddock's Sheriff, Derrick, talking to Donna in the foyer.   "Sheriff, thanks for comin'.  Didn't expect ya to get here so fast."

 

"Umm, Ray, we have a problem,"  says Donna.

 

"I'm sorry, Mr. Krebbs, I don't know what you mean,"  Derrick says.

 

"We called you about Dylan Baxter.  He's missin'."

 

"I'm not here about Dylan Baxter.  I'm here to talk to Conner about an accident last night involving his vehicle.  An accident which injured John Ross Ewing's son Alex Walton, and Bridget Mckinnon."

 

"Yes,"  Conner says.  

 

"Conner, I've read over the report that one of my officers wrote after speaking with you at the scene of the accident last night.  Now, according to him, you were using your cell phone?"

 

"I......had my phone in my hand, and I dropped it.  When I reached down to pick it up, I......."

 

"You crossed over the center line?"  Derrick asks.

 

"Conner, don't say another word,"  Donna tells the young man.  "Not without an attorney present."

 

"Mrs. Krebbs, Conner isn't under arrest.  I'm simply trying to get to the bottom of an accident in which two teenagers were seriously injured."

 

"It's okay,"  Conner says.  "I'll be glad to speak to the Sheriff, but.........Sheriff, can this wait?  My brother is missing.  He could be hurt somewhere."

 

"Why do you think your brother would be hurt?"  Derrick asks.

 

"Sheriff, my brother has a drinking problem,"  Conner says.  "Lately, he's been on a real bender, and this morning, he's gone."

 

"Conner and I were out lookin' for him,"  says Ray.  "That's why we called your office."

 

"I'm real sorry to hear that,"  says Derrick.  "I'll make sure to give finding Dylan a top priority.  But my other top priority is getting to the bottom of this accident.  Conner, are you willing to make a statement?"

 

"Conner, I really would advise you to not say anymore without an attorney present,"  Donna says.

 

"Donna, it's okay.  The accident was my fault.  I was out for a drive, and I had my cell phone in my hand."

 

"Were you texting, or making a call?"  Derrick asks.

"I was about to call Dylan.  I had left him here at the house alone."

 

"The accident happened only about a half mile from here.  If you were that close to home, why were you phoning your brother?"

 

"Like I said, he was here alone, and I wanted to make sure he was okay.  The phone slipped out of my hand and landed on the floor of the car.  I reached down to pick it up, and I only took my eyes off the road for a second.  When I picked up my phone and looked ahead, I was crossing into the other lane.  Alex's car was coming toward me, and I swerved.  My car went into the ditch, and Alex crashed."

 

"And you called 911?"  Derrick asks.

 

"Yes."

 

"Sheriff, what does this mean for Conner?"  Ray asks.  "Is he gonna get in trouble for this?"

 

"Well, unless Conner was texting while driving......my guess is.....no.  Under state law, it's not illegal to use a cell phone while driving, and one of my deputies administered a breathalyzer at the scene last night, and Conner had NOT been drinking.  As far as I'm concerned, this was just a tragic accident caused by poor judgement.  However, John Ross Ewing might not see it that way."

 

"John Ross?"  Ray asks.  "What's he got to do with it, if it was an accident?"

 

"John Ross's son was seriously injured.  And, if he finds out that Conner's recklessness was what caused the accident, then he could press charges.  Have Conner arrested for reckless endangerment."

 

"But, it was an accident,"  Conner says.  "I didn't mean for it to happen."

 

"I know that, son.  But I also know John Ross, and how much of a hard ass he can be, especially when it comes to his family.  And, Bridget McKinnon's family could also press charges.  I just want you to be prepared if anything like that should happen."

 

"Thank you,"  says Conner nervously.  

 

"Now, Conner, are you sure you've told me everything?"  Derrick asks.  "Nothing you've left out?"

 

"No,"  Conner replies, shaking his head.  "That's everything, Sheriff.  I just reached down to pick up my phone, and crossed into the other lane."

 

"Alright."

 

"Sheriff, what about my brother?"

 

"I'll get right on lookin' for him.  Do you have any idea of where he might've gone?  Friends?"

 

"Dylan doesn't really have any friends."

 

"Conner and I went to Braddock, and we looked in the two bars there, and no sign of him,"  says Ray.  

 

"I'll have my men on it,"  Derrick says.  "Try not to worry, we'll find him.  And Conner, stay close.  This is an ongoing investigation, and I may need to ask you some more questions about the accident."

 

"Of course," the young man says.

 

"Thank ya, Sheriff,"  Ray says.

 

"I'll be in touch,"  Derrick says, then leaves.

 

After the Sheriff is gone, Donna walks over to Conner.  "Are you absolutely sure you were telling us, and the Sheriff, the truth about that accident?  Because Conner, I get the feeling that there's something you're NOT being completely honest with us about."

 

"Son, if there is somethin' you need to tell us, now's the time,"  says Ray.

 

"No.  There's nothing,"  Conner lies.

Braddock Medical Center....

 While John Ross paces anxiously in the waiting room at Braddock Medical Center, Krystina stands near her husband, attempting to comfort him.  Bobby, Ann, Christopher, Courtney, Jenna, and Lucas are all seated or standing around the waiting room, no one saying anything as they await news of Alex's condition while surgery is being performed to relieve the pressure caused from the bleeding on the boy's brain.  

 

Justin and Jill walk into the room.  "Hey,"  Justin says.

 

"We heard about the accident,"  Jill says, walking over to John Ross.  

 

"How's Alex?"  Justin asks.

 

"In surgery,"  replies John Ross. 

 

"There was some bleeding on the brain, so they have to relieve the pressure it's causing,"  says Krystina.

 

"My God,"  Jill says.  "Do they even have the facilities or equipment here to do brain surgery?"

 

"Jill, they brought in a neurosurgeon from Dallas,"  replies Bobby.  "He's supposed to be one of the best.  They didn't wanna take a chance on moving Alex.to a hospital in Dallas."

 

Justin walks over and puts a reassuring hand on John Ross's shoulder.  "Is there anything you need, brother?"

 

"Yeah,"  replies John Ross.  "I need for my son to be okay."

 

Justin nods, then puts his arms around John Ross, embracing him.  

 

Jenna, meanwhile, is pacing near the door as Harris walks in.  

 

"Jenna,"  he says, walking over to her.

 

"Harris, thank goodness you're here,"  Jenna says.

 

 

"How's the boy?  Any change?"

 

"No, he's still in surgery."

 

"You okay, sweetheart?"  Harris asks.

 

"No.  I'm scared to death."

 

"It's gonna be alright,"  Harris says, embracing her.  

 

Across the room, sitting on the sofa, Ann watches her ex-husband and Jenna with an angry expression, then gets up and walks to the window.  Bobby stands and walks over to her.

 

"Honey, you alright?"  Bobby asks.

 

"Fine.  Just seein' Jenna with Harris.......just seein' Jenna at ALL......."

 

"I know.  But Alex is her grandson, and she's goin' through hell right now."

 

Ann looks at him and sighs.  "Yeah, I know.  For that reason, I feel sorry for her.  But I can't forget that she kissed you the day of the Barbecue."

 

At that moment, Charlie walks into the waiting room with Lucas, who had just picked his sister up from the airport.  "Charlie,"  Jenna says, quickly embracing her daughter.

 

"Mom, how is he?"  Charlie asks.

 

"He's still in surgery."

 

"Have you heard anything since I left?"  Lucas asks.

 

"No, we haven't."

 

"Mom, excuse me,"  Charlie says.  She walks across the room to John Ross and Krystina.  "John Ross," she says.

 

"Charlie, I'm glad you're here,"  says John Ross.

 

"Are you, John Ross?"  Charlie asks.  "Are you REALLY?  Then why didn't you call me and tell me about Alex?  I had to hear from Bobby that my son had been in a horrible car accident."

 

"Charlie, I'm sorry, I would've called you, but I was so upset and had so much on my mind, and Uncle Bobby offered to make the call for me."

 

"I should've heard the news from YOU."

 

"Charlie, the main thing we all need to focus on right now is Alex,"  Krystina says.

 

"Yes, you're right.  What did the doctors say?"

 

"There was bleedin' on his brain, Charlie,"  John Ross says.  "They had to do surgery to relieve the pressure."

 

"I already know that."

 

"Then you know as much as the rest of us.  All we can do now is wait."

 

"Wait?  WAIT?  How can I just sit here and wait while my son is in there right now, fighting for his life?"  Charlie says in tears.  "John Ross, what happened?  How did this accident happen?"

 

"Charlie, we don't know yet. I hadn't had a chance to talk to the police yet. because I been right here waitin' on news about our son.  All I know is, Alex and his date, Bridget, were on their way back to Southfork last night from the Oil Baron's Ball and their car crashed on Braddock Road, that's all I know."

 

Charlie begins to cry.  "Dear God, if anything happens to my son, I'll......."

 

"I know,"  John Ross says, putting his arms around her.  "I feel the same way.  That kid's only been in my life for three years, but I don't know what I'd do without him."

Meanwhile....

 

 Donna Love is sitting at the bedside of her granddaughter Bridget McKinnon in her room at Braddock Medical Center.  Marley walks into the room carrying two cups of coffee, one of which she hands to her mother.  

 

"Oh, thank you,"  Donna says.  

 

"You're welcome.  You must be exhausted.  I know I am.  Neither of us got any sleep last night."

 

"I'm fine.  Just really thankful that Bridget is going to be alright.  God, we're so lucky."

 

"I know,"  Marley says.

 

"Have you heard any news on Alex?"  Donna asks.

 

Marley sighs.  "No.  Last I checked, he was still in surgery."

 

Bridget moans.  "S.....surgery?"  The girl asks, waking up.  

 

"Bridget, darling?"  Donna says, gently touching her granddaughter's head.  

 

The girl opens her eyes.  "Grandmother," she says in a weak voice.

 

"Hey, sweety,"  Marley says.  "How do you feel?"

 

"My head hurts.  Did.......did I hear you say that.......Alex?  Oh my God.  Alex?"

 

"Bridget, darling, calm down,"  Donna tells her.  

 

"But, Alex......how is he?  Did you say he's in.....surgery?"

 

Marley and Donna exchange looks.  "Yes,"  Marley replies.  "Alex is in surgery."

 

"Then he......he's hurt bad?"  Bridget asks.

 

"Darling, don't you worry about that,"  says Donna.  "You just get some rest and don't excite yourself."

 

"But, Grandmother, Alex......I have to know.....how bad is he hurt?"  Bridget asks, deeply worried.

 

"From what I understand, he was hurt pretty bad,"  replies Marley.  "Alex had some bleeding on the brain, and they had to operate to relieve some pressure or something."

 

"My God,"  the girl cries.

 

"Darling, calm down,"  says Donna.  "Thank God you're alright.  Sweetheart, what happened last night?  Was Alex driving fast?  Or recklessly?"

 

"No.  Not at all,"  Bridget says.  "There was.......there was another car.  It ran us off the road."

 

"What?"  Marley asks.  "Another car ran you off the road?"

 

"It crossed over into our lane.  Alex, he swerved to avoid a collision, and lost control.  His car flipped."

 

Donna and Marley again exchange looks between them after hearing what had caused the previous night's tragic accident.

A street in Dallas....

 Meanwhile, a dazed and drunken Dylan is wandering aimlessly on a street in a somewhat rundown neighbor-

hood in Dallas, barely aware of his surroundings.  As he makes his way down the street, he bumps into two guys, one of whom angrily pushes him.

 

"Why don't you watch where you're goin'?"  One of the young men asks.

 

In his drunken daze, Dylan simply looks at the guy and continues staggering down the street as the two young men begin laughing and jeering at him.  Dylan continues on his way, as if he doesn't even realize their rude remarks and jeers aredirected at him.  He finally comes to an intersection.  He is still carrying the empty bourbon bottle.  Stopping at the intersection, he looks at the empty bottle he carries.  Realizing there is nothing left, he tosses the bottle to the ground, breaking it.  Looking around, Dylan spots a liquor store just down the street.  He makes his way down to the store and staggers in, going up to the  counter.  

 

"Yeah, what can I do for you?"  Asks the Mexican man behind the counter in a Hispanic accent.

 

"Umm.....bourbon,"  Dylan mumbles.  

 

"Ay, man, thin you have enough,"  the man says.

 

"I want a bottle of bourbon."

 

"You already look like you drunk man.  Why done you go home and sleep?"

 

"No.  I have money.  Give me some whiskey,"  Dylan says.

 

"Look, kid........you look like nice kid.  You have much to drink already, so, you donn need no more, okay, amigo?"

 

"Give me the whiskey, dammit!!"  Dylan says angrily, his words slurred.

 

"No, I already tell you no," the man says.  "Now you go.  Or leh me call you cab, eh?"

 

Dylan looks at the man.  "You go to hell.  There's other stores I can buy whiskey.  BETTER stores.  Because this store SUCKS!"  Almost falling, Dylan turns and staggers out of the store as the Mexican man at the counter shakes his head.  Watching all of this from nearbv is another young man.  He watches Dylan as he leaves the store, then after a brief pause, follows him out.  

 

"Hey, dude, wait up,"  the young man, who appears to be around Dylan's age, calls to him.  "Dude!"

 

Dylan stops and turns around to face him, a confused expression on his face.  

 

"Yeah,"  replies Michael.  "I wish my Dad or Grandpa would call and let us know something."

 

"Me, too,"  Jacob says.

 

"Guys, I'm sure they'll call and let us know something as soon as they can,"  says Lucy.  

 

"Lucy, do you think Alex is gonna die?"  Michael asks.

 

Lucy looks at the boy for a moment, then takes a seat across from him.  "No, sweety, I don't.  You know, Alex is young, and he's strong.  He's got those two things going in his favor, and you know what else he's got?"

 

"What?"  Jacob asks.

 

"He's got two cousins right here who love him and are praying for him, right?"  

 

"Right,"  Michael says with a nod.

 

"You guys have been praying for him, right?"  Lucy asks.

 

"I have,"  Michael says.

 

"I don't believe in prayer,"  says Jacob.

 

"You don't?"  Lucy asks the boy.  "Well how come?"

 "Because it doesn't work,"  Jacob says.  "Never worked for me, anyway."

 

"What do you mean?"

 

"I use to pray that my Dad.......Mr. Reed.......wouldn't hit me anymore.  Or that he would.......that something bad would happen to him.  But it never did."

 

Lucy and Michael exchange sad looks.  "I wouldn't say that.  After all, your mother and Christopher, they found you and now you're here at Southfork, safe, and the man who abused you is in jail, where he's gonna be for a long time. So you see, Jacob, God did answer your prayers."

 

"Sure took Him a long time,"  the boy says.  

 

"Look, why don't we play a game or something?  How about Monopoly?"

 

"I don't know how to play,"  Jacob says.

 

"Well Michael and I will teach you,"  says Lucy as she walks to a cabinet and takes out a Monopoly game.

 

 

"Hey,"  Jimmy says as he walks into the foyer.  "Any news from the hospital yet?"

 

"Not yet,"  Lucy replies.  "The boys and I were just about to play a game of Monopoly to pass the time.  You wanna play?"

 

"I'd love to.  But I warn you guys, I've been called the Monopoly King, and no one could beat me,"  Jimmy says.

 

"You hear that, fellas?"  Lucy asks.  "I think our cousin here just bragged that he can beat us at Monopoly.  I say he's full of hot air.  How about you, two?"

 

"I think so, too,"  says Michael.  

 

"Jimmy, why don't you put your money where your mouth is and let's get this game going?"  Lucy says, placing the Monopoly board on the coffee table.

Braddock Medical Center....

 Charlie is sitting alone at a table in a lounge at Braddock Medical Center sipping on a cup of coffee when John Ross walks in.  He pauses a moment and watches her, then walks over and takes a seat beside her.  "I was goin' crazy sittin' in that waitin' room with everybody else," he says.

 

"So was I.  That's why I came in here.  Just needed time alone, to think."

 

"Want me to leave you alone?"  John Ross asks.

 

"No, please stay.  I was just thinking about the night we........"  Charlie pauses a second and looks at him.  "The night Alex was conceived."

 

"That was quite a night, huh?"

 

"Yeah, it was."

 

"Clayton had had a heart attack when he and Grandma were home for a visit,"  John Ross says.  "They didn't expect him to live, and Uncle Bobby called Uncle Ray and told him.  Ray and Jenna came to see Clayton before it was too late, and you came with them."

 

"Yeah.  Phillip and I'd had a fight, and I needed some time away, to think and get my head together.  And that night, you, Christopher, and I were drinking, and catching up on old times."

 

"Yeah, I remember you bought us a whole case of beer because neither Christopher or I were old enough to buy booze yet.  And then, Christopher went on to bed, I came downstairs, and there you were.  Standin' by the fire.  You looked so damned beautiful that night."

 

"And that night I thought you were the most handsome man alive.  Never mind the fact that I had known you since you were what?  Four?  But that night, I no longer saw you as that little boy I had known all those years earlier.  You were a man."

 

"We were both needin' somethin' that night,"  says John Ross.  

 

"Two lonely souls finding comfort in each other.  And when we were making love, I kept thinking......is this really happening?  Am I having sex with John Ross?  My God, I've known him since he was a little kid.  But, for some strange reason, it felt right."

 

"It WAS right, Charlie.  It was right because our son came out of that night.  Charlie, you should've told me right from the start that Alex was my son."

 

"I know,"  Charlie says with a sigh.  "I've regretted that ever since I left to go back to New York last year.  Seeing you and Alex together before I left.  The relationship the two of you have developed over the past couple of years, I know I made a mistake not telling you both.  But when I got back to New York, Phillip and I got back together, and then I found out I was pregnant.  John Ross, you weren't barely twenty, and you had a LOT of wild oats left to sow.  What kind of a father do you think you would've made at that age?"

 

"I think knowin' I had a son would've forced me to grow up a lot sooner,"  John Ross says.  "I would've loved him, Charlie."

 

"I know.  I can see how much you love Alex now,"  Charlie says, reaching across the table and taking John Ross's hand.  

 

At that moment, Lucas rushes in.  "Charlie, John Ross," he says.  "The doctor wants to see you both."

 

The worried parents exchange looks.  A minute later, John Ross, Charlie, and Lucas, return to the waiting room where Jenna, Harris, Bobby, Ann, Christopher, Courtney, Justin, and Jill are standing around a male doctor.  

 

"Alex is out of surgery?"  John Ross asks.

 

"Yes, he is, Mr. Ewing,"  the doctor replies.

 

"How is he?"  Charlie asks.  "I'm Alex's mother."

 

"Alex came through the surgery very well,"  the doctor says as Marley Hudson wheels her niece, Bridget McKinnon into the room in a wheelchair.  

 

"Then, he's going to be alright?"  Jenna asks.

 

"Yes, I think so.  We managed to stop the bleeding and relieve the pressure on Alex's brain."

 

"Can we see him?"  Charlie asks.

 

"He's still in recovery now.  But as soon as he's moved back to ICU, you'll be able to see him."

 

"Doctor, you're sure he's gonna be alright?"  John Ross asks.

 

"We have to monitor him very closely for signs of complications such as infection.  But, barring any complications, I expect Alex to make a full recovery."

 

"Thank God,"  Bobby says.  

 

"Yes, thank God,"  says Jenna.

 

"Alex is heavily sedated, so he probably will be in and out of consciousness for at least the next 24 hours.  Now only immediate family will be allowed to see Alex for a while, so why don't the rest of you go home and get some rest? I'm sure it's been a long day for all of you.  Mr. Ewing, I'll let you know when you and Alex's mother can see him."

 

"Thank ya,"  John Ross says as the doctor leaves.

 

Krystina walks over to her husband and puts her arms around him.  "Thank God, he's gonna be alright."

 

"I know.  Darlin', why don't you go home with Uncle Bobby and Ann?"

 

"Krystina, John Ross is right,"  says Bobby.  "You need all the rest you can get."

 

"I am kind of tired."

 

"I'll call you as soon as I'm able to see him."

 

Krystina nods, then kisses her husband.  Krystina leaves with Bobby and Ann, Christopher, and Courtney as Marley walks over to John Ross.

 

"I'm very glad to hear that Alex is going to be okay,"  Marley says.

 

"Thank you,"  John Ross says.  "Marley Hudson, this is Charlie Walton, Alex's mother."

 

"Hello," the two women exchange greetings.  

 

"John Ross, have you spoke to the police at all about the accident?"  Marley asks.

 

"No, I hadn't.  I been too busy here dealin' with Alex's condition.  Why, have you?"

 

"Bridget told us what happened.  Another car was involved."

 

"That much I did suspect."

 

"No, Bridget said that the other car ran them off the road.  She said the car crossed over into their lane, and all they could see were headlights coming toward them.  Alex swerved to avoid a head on collision, and lost control."

 

"What the hell did you just say?"  John Ross asks.

 

"Wait, you said that......a car crossed over into Alex's lane and almost hit them head on?"

 

"Yes, that's what Bridget said,"  Marley replies.

 

John Ross feels the anger rising up inside of him.  "Are you tellin' me that the other car ran those two kids off the road."  John Ross walks to the door.

 

"John Ross, where are you going?"  Charlie asks.

 

"I'm goin' to see that Sheriff and find out who the hell was drivin' the car that almost killed my son, and find out if they've been arrested.  And for their own sake........ that bastard better be in jail because when I get done with him.......jail is gonna feel like a vacation."  John Ross turns and storms out.  

Downtown Dallas....

 As the sun is low in the Texas sky, Dylan is still waiting outside of the liquor store in downtown Dallas, where the young man calling himself Austin had absconded with Dylan's wallet more than an hour earlier.  Dylan puts his hands in his pockets and pulls out his cell phone, but the battery is dead.  He doesn't even have any idea what time it is, or where he is.  All he knows is, he needs more alcohol, and it's obvious Austin isn't coming back.  Dylan starts to go into the store, but then, when he reaches for his back pocket, his wallet is gone.  Vaguely, he remembers giving his wallet to the boy, but doesn't even remember what Austin looked like.  With no money, how will he get more alcohol?  Dylan begins to cry.  His hands are shaking.  Still heavily intoxicated from the entire bottle of bourbon he had consumed earlier, he begins to wander down the street, unsure of where he is, and having no idea of where he is going.  Tears streaming down his face, Dylan doesn't care whether he lives or dies at this point.  

 

After several minutes of wandering, he comes across a group of older men sitting in an alley, passing around a bottle.  Feeling a sense of hope at the sight of that bottle, Dylan staggers over to them, a desperate look on his face.

 

"Well, hey there, young fella,"  one man says.  "You care for a drink?"

 

Without saying a word, Dylan nods.  Another man hands him the bottle.  Dylan takes it, turns it up and takes a 

 drink of the whiskey, then takes a short breath before turning the bottle up again.

 

"Hey, kid, save some for the rest of us,"  says another one of the men, all of whom appear to be in their 50s.  

 

"Come on, that's enough,"  says the first man who'd handed Dylan the bottle.  "You've had your two drinks, kid, now, beat it."

 

Dylan looks at the man, nods, then turns and staggers away.  

Braddock Sheriff's Department....

 John Ross angrily storms into the Braddock County Sheriff's Department and approaches the officer at the front desk.  "I need to see the Sheriff," he says.

 

"Name?"

 

"John Ross Ewing.  It's important."

 

"John Ross,"  Derrick says, coming out of his office.  

 

John Ross walks over to him.  "I need to talk to you about that accident last night that almost killed my son."

 

Derrick nods.  "Come into my office."  John Ross follows Derrick into his office and Derrick closes the door.  "Have a seat,"  Derrick says.

 

"I don't wanna have a seat.  I want some damned answers.  You investigated my son's accident?"

 

"My department investigated the accident, yes."

 

"And?  Derrick, I wanna know who was drivin' that other car that ran Alex and his girl off the road,"  John Ross says.

 

 

 

"Look, John Ross, this is an ongoing investigation by my department,"  Derrick says.  "But from all indication, it looks like this is just an accident.  A tragic accident."

 

"Accident, my ass,"  says an angry John Ross.  "Bridget McKinnon said that the car ran her and Alex off the road.  She said the car crossed over into Alex's lane and forced them off the road.  Does that sound like a damned accident to you?"

 

"John Ross, trust me.  It WAS an accident, so you need to drop it.  Just concentrate on your boy and let us do our jobs."

 

"Derrick, you know somethin' about this that you're not tellin' me,"  says John Ross.  "Now I'm sure I don't need to remind you that my fam'ly has a hell of a lot of power in this county, and that Ewing money helped get you elected.  So if you don't wanna find yourself out of a job, then I suggest you tell me who was drivin' the car that ran my son and his girl off the road last night."

 

Derrick looks at him and sighs, realizing that he's backed into a corner.  "It was your cousin, Conner Ewing."

 

John Ross's mouth falls open in shock.  "Conner Ewing?  Conner Ewing was the one who almost killed my teenage son last night?  Was he drinkin'?"

 

"John Ross, it was an ACCIDENT,"  Derrick says.  "Conner said he dropped his cell phone on the floor of his car, and he reached down to pick it up, and, next thing he knew, he had crossed over the line and saw Alex's car comin' toward him."

 

"A cell phone?  My son almost died because of a damned CELL PHONE?  And you're sittin' here on your ass not doin' anything about it?"

 

"There's nothing to do about it."

 

"I want that little son of a bitch arrested,"  John Ross says.  "I want charges filed against Conner Ewing, Derrick, and if that hadn't happened by tonight..........I guarantee I'll make sure Braddock County has a new Sheriff in the next month."  John Ross looks angrily at him for a moment, then turns and walks out of the office.

Jeremy Wendell's penthouse....

 Jeremy is working on his computer at his desk late that afternoon when a knock comes at his door.  "Come in," he says.

 

His butller, William walks in.  "Mr. Wendell, Tripp McKay is here to see you."

 

A smile comes to Jeremy's face.  "Send him in."

 

"Yes, sir,"  William says.  He walks out of the office, and a second later, Tripp walks in, closing the door behind him.

 

"Hello, Tripp."

 

"Jeremy.  Or, should I call you Grandfather?"

 

"Jeremy is fine......for now.  I'm actually glad that you came by."

 

"Well, I'm not sure how glad you're gonna be when you hear what I have to say."

 

"I take it you're still upset about last night,"  says Jeremy.

 

"Upset?  Try pissed off!  Damned right I'm upset about last night when you announced to the entire room at the Oil Baron's Ball that you're my grandfather, BEFORE you even told me that little bit of news."

 

"I wanted to tell you, Tripp.  Many times I wanted to tell you."

 

"And my mother knows about you?"  Tripp asks.

 

"Oh yes.  I met your mother thirty years ago, when you and your brother Hunter were only about a year old."

 

"Why didn't you tell me about this months ago when we first met?"  

 

"The time wasn't right,"  replies Jeremy.  "Tripp, I wanted you to be my ally in my quest for revenge against the Ewings.  I wasn't certain how you would take the news of our blood relationship, so, I wanted to get to know you before you learned the truth.  I admit I shouldn't have dropped such a revelation on you in front of so many people last night."

 

"Damn right, you shouldn't have,"  Tripp says.  

 

"Tripp, you've become a very important part of my life.  Not only are you my grandson, but you've also become a very close friend, and confidant.  I believe you were feeling the same way about me."

 

"Yes, I was.  But this changes everything.  I feel like I can't trust you after that stunt you pulled last night."

 

"I understand why you would feel that way, but Tripp, I assure you........you CAN trust me.  I have only your best interest at heart, and now that the truth is out, I hope that you and I can forge not only a relationship as family, but also that our alliance to destroy the Ewings will be even stronger than it was before."

 

"Destroying the Ewings has been something that I've wanted for YEARS.  It was the main reason I came back to Dallas in the first place."

 

"And now would be the perfect time to make our move,"  Jeremy says.

 

"What do you mean?"

 

"I'm not sure if you've heard the news, but John Ross's son, Alex, was involved in a very serious car accident last night on the way home from the Ball."

 

"Yes, I did hear about that,"  Tripp says.  "It's terrible."

 

"Not so terrible for us."

 

"Meaning?"

 

"With John Ross's boy in the hospital, he and the rest of that family will be preoccupied for the time being.  What better time than now for us to seize this opportunity to strike?  To mount an all out attack on Ewing Oil."

 

"Now wait a minute, Jeremy,"  says Tripp.  "I wanna destroy the Ewings and their company just as much as you, but, using a tragedy like this to our advantage.......I'm not sure I can do that.  Alex is a good kid, and he's Shawn's best friend."

 

Jeremy smiles.  "Tripp, you're still very young.  But one thing you've got to learn in business is to never, and I mean NEVER let your personal feelings for someone interfere with doing whatever it is you have to do in order to achieve your goals.  Our goal is to bring the Ewings to their knees, and see to it that Ewing Oil ceases to exist, just as I did once before, thirty years ago.  And that means using whomever you have to, and using whatever situation fate may present to you."

 

At that moment, the two hear the sounds of a commotion outside in the hallway....two voices, that of Jeremy's butler William, and a woman's voice they recognized as Tripp's mother, Sharon Smith, who sounded as if she is trying to force her way into see Jeremy against William's protests.  "My Mom?" Tripp asks.  "What's she doing here?"

 

"She's obviously heard about what happened at the Ball last evening,"  replies Jeremy.  "You really want Sharon to find you here, and to know that we've been in cahoots?"

 

Tripp shakes his head, then quickly steps into the next room just as Sharon barges into the office, followed by William.  

 

"Mr. Wendell, I'm very sorry,"  William says.  "I tried to stop her."

 

Jeremy smiles.  "It's quite alright William.  You may go.  My daughter and I have quite a lot to discuss."

 

William nods, then leaves the room, closing the door behind him.  

 

"Sharon, would you care for a drink?"  Jeremy asks.

 

"You son of a bitch,"  Sharon angrily says.  "I heard about what you did at the Oil Baron's Ball last night.  How could you do that to my son, with Tripp right there?  How could you just ambush him with news like that?"

 

"I have a better question, Mom?"  Tripp asks, walking back into the room.  "How could YOU not tell me about your father, especially since you seem to know he was in town?"

 

Sharon looks at her son, unsure of how she was going to answer Tripp's question.

The Krebbs Ranch....

 Donna walks into the foyer as someone is pounding loudly on the front door of the Krebbs home.  She pauses a moment, then opens the door to find an angry John Ross there.  

 

"John Ross, what are you doing here?"  Donna asks.

 

"I'm here to see Conner,"  John Ross replies, as Conner comes down the stairs.  He stops on the third step from the bottom.  John Ross looks at him.  "You son of a bitch,"  he says, walking over to Conner.  Without warning, John Ross grabs Conner by the sbirt, pulls him close to him, then punches him in the face, knocking the young man off his feet and to the floor.

 

"JOHN ROSS!"  Donna yells.  

 

John Ross grabs Conner and pulls him to his feet, then forces him against the wall.

 

"JOHN ROSS, STOP IT!!!!"  Donna again yells as Ray rushes in.  

 

Ray quickly grabs John Ross and pulls him away from Conner.  John Ross again tries to lunge for Conner, but Ray shoves him to the floor.  "Alright, now just stop it!  Back OFF!"  Ray says.  

 

 

"Some things never change, do they?"  Ray asks.  "I see the Ewings still have the Braddock Sheriff in their pocket."

 

Ignoring Ray's remark, Derrick goes about placing a frightened Conner in custody.  "Conner James Ewing, you are under arrest,"  Derrick says, handcuffing the young man as a devastated Ray and Donna look on.  "You have the right to remain silent.  Anything you say can and will be used against you in a court of law.  You have the right to an attorney.  If you cannot afford an attorney, one will be appointed to you by the court.  Do you understand these rights?"

 

"Yes,"  Conner replies softly.  As John Ross, Ray and Donna look on, Derrick leads Conner from the house and to his awaiting patrol car outside.  

 

"Conner, don't worry, we're going to meet you at the Sheriff's office,"  Donna yells out the door as Derrick places Conner into the backseat of his car.  After they drive away, Donna closes the front door of the house and looks at John Ross.  "I hope you're happy with yourself."

 

Ray turns to his nephew.  "John Ross, get the hell outta my house."

 

John Ross looks at his uncle and at Donna, then turns and leaves.  

 

"I'm gonna call Jay," Donna says.

 

"Do it in the car,"  says Ray.  "Come on.  Let's go."  Both grab their jackets and leave the house, heading to the Sheriff's Department in Braddock.

Meanwhile....downtown Dallas....

 

 

At the same time his brother is being arrested for the accident Dylan had caused the night before, Dylan is aimlessly wandering the slums of Dallas in a drunken daze, unsure of where he even is, or where is is going.  He wallet having been stolen earlier by a young thief, Dylan now had no money and no form of identification.  As Dylan staggers his way down a street in one of Dallas's most run down neighborhoods, he is spotted by a group of boys standing in an alley passing around a bottle of vodka.  One of the boys is Austin, the young man who had absconded with Dylan's wallet a couple of hours earlier.  

 

"Hey, dudes, look,"  Austin tells his friends.  "I don't believe it.  It's the drunk I told you about earlier.  The one who was nice enough to buy us this booze."

 

"Oh, yeah?"  Another boy asks.

 

"Come on, let's have some fun,"  Austin says.  He approaches Dylan, followed by the other boys.

 

 

 

 

 

"Austin, I think this dude disrespectin' you, man,"  says one of Austin's friends.

 

"Yeah, I think you're right, Rocco,"  Austin says, getting in Dylan's face.  "I don't like people disrespectin' me.  Whatcha got in that bag, Dylan?"

 

"What?"

 

"Da bag, homie,"  Rocco says, moving to the other side of Dylan, so he and Austin stand on each side of him.  "What's in it?"

 

"N......nothing......"

 

"Then let's see,"  Austin says.

 

"No.....leave me alone,"  Dylan says in a weak voice.

 

"He disrespectin' you again, bro,"  Rocco says.

 

 

 

"Guess we're gonna have to teach this kid a lesson."  Austin quickly punches Dylan in the stomach, hard, causing Dylan to double over in pain while Rocco grabs his backpack from him.  

 

"No.....give me my bag,"  Dylan says, grabbing for the bag, hitting Rocco's hand in the process.

 

"No, Dylan, you shouldn't have done that,"  Austin says.  "Now you disrespected by boy Rocco, and he don't like that.  Neither do I."  Austin and Rocco grab a kicking and yelling Dylan, Austin by his arms and Rocco by the feet, and carry him into an alley, where they toss him to the ground. As Dylan is about to get up, Rocco hits him hard across the face.  

 

"No, stop!"  Dylan yells, but the two boys begin mercilessly beating and hitting him across the face and in the