EPISODE 161 - Ewing Enemies Unite

Katherine smiles.  "And if we help each other, we'll both have what we want........you'll have your revenge on the Ewings, and I'll finally have Bobby."

 

"Aren't you forgetting one small detail?"  Jeremy asks.  "Your husband in California, Richard Channing?"

 

"I do love Richard.  But Bobby is the only man I've ever truly wanted.  I've loved Bobby Ewing from the first time that I met him when I was 21, when he was married to Pam.  And I've loved him ever since, and wanted him."

 

"And you're just the kind of woman that Bobby Ewing deserves,"  Jeremy says ominously with a smile before taking another sip of his scotch.

 Shawn walks into the apartment he shares with his mother.  Hearing her son come home, Sharon comes out of the kitchen.  "Shawn, where have you been?"

 

"I went to the hospital in Braddock to see Alex."

 

"Oh.  How's he doin'?"

 

"He's recovering."

 

"That's good,"  Sharon says.  "Next time you talk to him, give him my best."

 

"I will.  Mom, we need to talk."

 

"Honey, I really don't have that much time right now.  I have to get to work."

 

"It's important,"  Shawn says.

 

"Alright.  But make it quick."

 

"Why didn't you tell me about my grandfather?"  Shawn asks.

 

Her son's question sends a chill down Sharon's spine.  She looks at him.  "Shawn, what are you......"

 

"If you're gonna ask me what I'm talking about, don't bother.  Because you know what I'm talking about.  Your father."

 

"Shawn, how?  How did you find out about him?"

 

"I overheard you and Tripp talking the other day.  So why didn't you ever tell me about Jeremy Wendell?  That I have a grandfather?"

 

"Because I didn't want you or either of your brothers to know about that man,"  Sharon says.  

 

"After talking to John Ross, I can understand why,"  Shawn says.  

 

"You spoke to John Ross Ewing about Jeremy Wendell?"  Sharon asks.

 

"Yes.  I heard you and Tripp talking about your father hating the Ewings.  So I asked John Ross, and he told me all about how evil Wendell is.  And how he spent all those years in prison when he almost got the Ewings killed."

 

"Yes.  Now do you see why I didn't want you to know about my father?"

 

"No, Mom.  I don't.  Your father may have done some terrible things, but you still should've told me that I had a grandfather somewhere.  You lied to me, Mom.  You told me that your parents were dead."

 

"In a sense, that's true,"  Sharon says.  "My mother died of cancer in 1987.  She was the ONLY parent that I had ever known.  I grew up not even knowing who my father was because she would never tell me.  But finally, when she found out that she was dying of cancer, she confessed to me that Wendell was my father, and that when she brought up the subject of them getting married and having children, he basically told her that a wife and kids were not in his plans.  He wanted nothing to do with that kind of life, because he was already married to Westar.  So, my mother left and never saw him again until she found out she had cancer.  She went to him, and told him about me, and soon after she died, Jeremy came looking for me.  I already knew what kind of a man he was, and the more I learned, especially after what he did to the Ewings, I knew he was a monster.  Shawn, I was happy when he went to prison in 1989, because he was out of my life.  My mother loved him and he treated her like crap.  She never got over that.  Never stopped pining for  the man until the day she died, having never allowed herself to find happiness with anyone else because of Jeremy Wendell.  THAT is the kind of man my father is.  He cares for no one but himself, and he never has.  So, he was dead to me."

 

"Maybe he's changed,"  Shawn says.  "I mean, he's pretty old now, isn't he?"

 

Sharon looks at her son.  "Oh, my darling.  Even old age could never melt the ice cold heart of Jeremy Wendell.  And I want you to stay as far away from that man as possible."

 

"That was him who came here that night, wasn't it?  New Year's Eve, before you and Mitch went out.  That was Jeremy Wendell, wasn't it?"

 

"Yes, that was him."  Sharon looks at her watch.  "Honey, I have to get to work.  I can't afford to be late again.  Do you have any plans for tonight?"

 

"No."

 

"Good.  I'd rather you stay in.  I'll call you on my dinner break."  Sharon kisses her son on the cheek.  She picks up her purse and leaves the apartment.  

 

Shawn lets out a sigh.  The things his mother said only makes him even more curious about his grandfather, and more eager to meet the man.

Southfork....

 

At Southfork, Michael is in the living room sitting on the sofa, playing his new guitar he had gotten for Christmas.  The boy has a piece of paper and a pen laying on the table in front of him, and as he plays a few chords, he looks down at the paper, then sings a few words.  Lucas and Heather start to walk into the den, when they hear their son and stop in the doorway to listen to Michael for a moment.  Both are stunned at the beautiful voice their son has, and his amazing skill at guitar, an instrument he'd only had for a short time.  When Michael stops playing and picks up his pen to scratch something on the paper, Lucas and Heather walk over to him.

 

"Michael,"  Heather says.

 

"Hey, whatcha doin', buddy?"  Lucas asks.

 

"Oh, hey, guys.  I was just writing a song,"  the boy replies.

 

"What?"  Heather asks.  "Michael, you WROTE that?"

 

"Sure did."

 

"Heather, why didn't you ever tell me that my son is so talented and could sing like that?" Lucas asks.

 

"I didn't tell you, because I didn't know, either,"  Heather replies.  "Michael, sweetheart, how come you never told me you enjoyed singin'?  Or that you had a voice like that?"

 

"Never really thought to,"  Michael says.  "It's just something I enjoy doing.  I was always a little embarrassed to sing in front of you."

 

"Can I see this?"  Lucas asks, picking up the piece of paper.  Michael nods and Lucas looks at it.  He smiles.  "Heather, take a look at this," he says, handing her the paper.  

 

Heather reads a few lines, then looks at her son.  "Michael, you.....you wrote this all by yourself?"

 

"Uh-huh.  Just now.  It's not finished yet, though."

 

"Would you, uh, would you sing this for us?"  Lucas asks.

 

The boy looks at his parents and smiles.  "You really want me to?"

 

"Yeah, we do,"  Heather replies.  "We'd love to hear it."

 

"Okay, well, here goes,"  the boy says.  He begins playing the opening on his guitar, then a few seconds in, he begins singing the lyrics: 

"I... never knew, I never knew what heaven was like.

Until I lost myself in your eyes.  

Through and through I always had my partner in crime, side by side.  

You saved me, embraced me, then made me your superman.  

Your neverland, now I'm flying so high every time that you take my hand.  

You got me feeling like oh, I see it in your heart and soul.

I see it everywhere you go and I just wanna let you know...

It was always you and beautiful

B-e-a-u, u, u your beautiful, b-e-a-u, u, u your beautiful

B-e-a-u, u, u your beautiful, b-e-a-u, u, u your beautiful..."

Michael stops.  "This is the second verse I was just working on," he says, then starts again:

"Round and round, round and round we move to the beat

You got my heart song set on repeat

Rocking out, dancing like it's 3013 you're all I see

You saved me, embraced me then made me your superman

Your neverland now I'm flyin' so high every time that you take my hand

You got me feeling like oh, I see it in your heart and soul

I see it everywhere you go, and I just want to let you know

It was always you and beautiful

B-e-a-u, u, u your beatiful, b-e-a-u, u, u your beautiful

B-e-a-u, u, u your beautiful b-e-a-u, u, u your beautiful...."

 

Michael stops again and puts down his guitar.  "That's all I have for now," he says.

 

Lucas and Heather exchange looks and smiles.  "Michael that was absolutely amazing,"  Lucas says.  

 

"It sure was,"  Bobby says, he and Ann coming into the living room.  "I had no idea my grandson could sing and play like that."

 

"Yeah, neither did we,"  Lucas says.  

 

"Michael how long have you been playin' guitar?"  Ann asks.

 

"I just started when I got the guitar, really."

 

"Well, he did take a few lessons when he was younger,"  says Heather.  

 

Lucas looks at his son.  "Well, Michael you keep working on that song.  I'll be back."

 

"Lucas, where are you going?"  Heather asks.

 

"Just outside.  I'll be back in a few minutes,"  Lucas says, then hurries out of the room.  A moment later, Lucas steps onto the patio and puts his coat on, then takes his cell phone from his pocket.  He dials a number and on the 

second ring, someone answers.  "Hey, Justin, what's up?  Listen, are you busy this evening?  You're not?  Good.  Any chance you could come out to Southfork after you leave work?  Great.  About 6?  Oh, no, nothing's wrong.  There's just something I want you to listen to, and trust me, cousin, you won't be sorry."

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Westar....evening....

"I admire your integrity,"  Tripp says.

 

"Well, thank you."

 

"Ted, I really had hoped that you would agree to do business with me without having to be..........persuaded."

 

"Tripp, as I said, I don't go back on my word,"  Ted says.  "Now, if that's all........"

 

"Actually, that's not all, Ted.  I want your company.  I'm willing to double the offer the Ewings made you."

 

"And as I said, I'm NOT going back on my word to Bobby Ewing.  If you'll excuse me, I have to be going."

 

"Ted, do you remember a woman by the name of Carol Davis?"

 

Ted looks nervously at the younger man.  "Carol......who?"

 

Tripp smiles.  "Ted, don't play dumb with me.  You know who I'm talking about.  Question is.......does your wife know?  How about your kids?"

 

"Are you threatening me, young man?"  Ted asks.

 

"Threatening you, Ted?"

 

"Yes, by bringing up Carol Davis.  How do you even know about her, anyway? Carol died before you were even born.  Unless.......of course.  Jeremy Wendell."

 

"He might've mentioned her, in passing.  She died in childbirth, didn't she, Ted?  The birth of.......YOUR child?  Did you ever tell your wife about that little indiscretion?"

 

"You're willing to hurt my family by revealing a 35-year-old secret if I don't sell you my company?"  Ted asks.  "This can't be just about Wilson Petrol.  Why?  Is beating the Ewings that important to you?"

 

"Aside from my son, beating the Ewings is the most important thing in the world to me, just as I'm sure your family is the most important thing in the world to you, along with your reputation as one of the most respected businessmen in Dallas.  Husband, father, grandfather,  Boy Scout leader.  Deacon in your church, too, I believe.  Sure would be a shame if it came out that a man of your sterling character had an affair with a co-worker at Westar 35 years ago and she died giving birth to your bastard son.  A son that you refused to take and raise because, even back then, you were too concerned about your reputation."

 

Ted looks at Tripp for a few seconds.  "You really ARE Jeremy Wendell's grandson, aren't you?"

 

"Yes, Ted.  I am.  So do we have a deal?"

 

"My wife is not a well woman, McKay,"  Ted says.  "Finding out something like this would kill her."

 

"Your wife doesn't have to find out, Ted,"  Tripp says.  "You sell Wilson to Westar, and I can promise you that your secret will remain just that.......a secret.  I mean, aside from you and I, Jeremy is the only other living person who knows, right?"

 

"Yes,"  Ted replies.  "Alright.  Alright, damn it, I'll sell to you."

 

"Good.  You made the right decision, Ted.  I'll have my attorney draw up the contract first thing tomorrow,"  Tripp says with a devious smile of triumph, then takes a sip of his drink.

Southfork....

 

 

 

At Southfork that evening, Lucas, Heather, Justin, and Pamela are in the living room with Michael, who picks up his guitar and takes a seat by the fireplace.  The adults listen with interest as the boy begins to play.....

 John Ross and Krystina come down the stairs as Bobby is in the foyer talking on the phone.  "Ray, I'm sorry to hear

that,"  Bobby says.  "Is there anything we can do?  Well, if there is, let us know.  And keep us posted.  Good luck.  Sure hope he's found soon, and safe.  Okay.  Bye, Ray."  Bobby ends the call and puts his phone into his pocket, then walks into the dining room behind John Ross and Krystina, the three taking their seats at the table along with Ann, Christopher, Courtney, and Lucas.  

 

"What'd Ray have to say?"  Ann asks.

 

"Yeah, Uncle Bobby, I heard you say you hoped somebody would be found safe,"  says John Ross.  "That wouldn't happen to be Conner Ewing, would it?"

 

"No,"  Bobby replies.  "Dylan Baxter is missing."

 

"You mean missing from the hospital?"   Lucy asks.

 

"Yes,"  Bobby says.  

 

"Why was Dylan Baxter in the hospital?"  John Ross asks.

 

"He was attacked in downtown Dallas a few days ago, and was beaten up pretty badly."

 

"Too bad it wasn't that brother of his."

 

"John Ross, your compassion for other people never ceases to amaze me,"  Christopher says.

 

"Conner Ewing is the reason my son is in the hospital right now, Christopher.  Alex could've been killed because of Conner's reckless drivin'."

 

Lucas, Heather, and Michael walk into the room at that moment and take their usual seats at the table.  "Morning, everyone,"  Lucas says.

 

"Good mornin',"  says Ann.

 

"Looks like we walked in on somethin',"  Heather says.

 

"Nothing anymore than usual,"  says Lucy.  "Just your typical exchange of pleasantries over a Southfork breakfast."

 

Bobby smiles.  "Well, Lucas, are you guys gonna tell the rest of the family about Michael's good news?"

 

"What good news?"  Krystina asks. 

 

"Yeah, we're dying to hear,"  Courtney says.

 

"Well, last night, Justin and Pamela came over,"  Lucas says.

 

"And that's supposed to be good news?"  John Ross asks, sarcastically.

 

"They came over to listen to Michael play his guitar and sing,"  says Heather.  

 

"And they loved what they heard,"  Lucas adds.  

 

"So, I'm gonna record a CD,"  Michael says.

 

"You're gonna what?"  Christopher asks.

 

"Justin is gonna sign Michael to a contract with Ewing Records to record a CD single of a couple songs he wrote."

 

"You write songs?"  Jacob asks.

 

"Just two, so far,"  replies Michael.

 

"Oh, wow, Michael, that's great,"  Lucy says.

 

"Congratulations, sweety,"  says Ann.

 

"Thanks."

 

"Michael, that's great,"  Krystina.  "How come I didn't know you were so talented?"

 

"Don't feel bad,"  says Heather.  "Lucas and I didn't even know that our son could sing so well, let alone play the guitar, especially since we just bought it for him at Christmas."

 

As the family praises and congratulations Michael on his good news, Jacob looks across the table at his step-cousin, and from his expression, it's clear that Jacob doesn't share the rest of the family's happiness over Michael's good fortune.  

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

The Krebbs Ranch....

 After getting off the phone with Bobby, Ray walks into the Krebbs kitchen, where Donna is fixing breakfast.  "Bobby said let him know if he can help,"  Ray says.  

 

"I wish there was something I could do to help,"  says Donna.  "I feel so helpless."

 

"So do I.  Conner hadn't come down yet?"

 

"No.  Ray, I'm as worried about Conner as I am about Dylan."

 

"Me, too,"  Ray says, pouring himself a cup of coffee.  

 

Conner comes down the stairs and walks into the kitchen.  "Have the police in Dallas called yet?"

 

"No,"  Donna replies.  

 

"Well, I'm going into Dallas,"  Conner says.  "If I have to, I'll walk around town on foot until I find Dylan."

 

"Conner, have some breakfast first,"  Ray says.

 

"No, I'm not hungry,"  the young man says.

 

"Conner, you didn't eat dinner last night, and all you had yesterday was a sandwich for lunch,"  says Donna.  "And you didn't sleep last night, did you?"

 

"No."

 

"Sweety, you can't go on like this.  If you don't take care of yourself, you're going to get sick, and that won't help Dylan at all."

 

"I can't think about food right  now, or sleep when my brother is out there somewhere, wandering the streets of Dallas.  God only knows what's happening to him or what kind of trouble he's already gotten in.  The radio even said it's supposed to snow today.  What if Dylan's out in that?"

 

"The police are doin' all they can to find him,"  Ray says.  "And Todd Baxter is usin' all his influence as an assistant D.A. to get the cops to move faster on this."

 

"Todd Baxter, I wouldn't trust that guy to find a lost pair of socks, much less my brother."

 

Donna walks over to the young man and puts her hand on Conner's shoulder.  "Honey, we are ALL worried sick about Dylan.  But we're also worried about you.  Conner, when he is found, Dylan is going to need all of our support and love.  And if you make yourself sick, then you're not gonna be able to be there for him.  Now you need to eat something, and get some rest."

 

"Okay.  I'll eat.  But I won't rest until my brother is found."

 

"Alright.  Sit down, and I'll fix you some pancakes,"  Donna says.  

 

Dylan nods, then walks over to the table and sits down across from Ray.  Ray and Donna exchange worried looks, but remain silent.  

Downtown Dallas....

 C.J. Ewing and his half-brother, Eric Love, each purchase a cup of hot cocoa that morning near Klyde Warren Park in downtown Dallas.  After purchasing his cup, Eric hands the man his money, then he and C.J. begin walking down the street.

 

"I love stopping here on a cold morning for a cup of hot cocoa before heading to the office,"  C.J. says.

 

"Yeah, this stuff smells great,"  Eric says, blowing on his hot chocolate to cool it.

 

"And this is the perfect weather for it.  It may be sunny right now, but the weather forecast says we might get some snow later today or tonight.  I meant to ask you later night, but any news yet about when your father's trial is gonna start?"

 

"Yeah.  In another month.  I spoke to his attorney yesterday."

 

"So are you gonna just stay on in Dallas until the trial is over, or head back to San Francisco for a few weeks?"

 

"Yeah, I was thinking about it,"  Eric replies.  "Look, C.J., I know you're apartment isn't all that big, so if I'm crowding you, maybe I should just think about getting a place of my own for the time being, or going to a hotel."

 

"No, bro, that's not what I meant at all.  You're more than welcome to stay at my place as long as you want to. I like having you around, actually.  It's nice, getting to know my brother."

 

"Yeah, but, you're a young bachelor who had all the privacy in the world until I came to stay with you.  I'll make a deal with you.  Whenever you have  a date, you can just tell me to get lost, and you and whatever lucky lady you're going out with can have the apartment all to yourselves."

 

A sad look comes over C.J.'s face.  "Thanks, but, that won't be a problem.  I'm not seein' anybody, and I have no plans to in the near future."

 

"You're kidding,"  Eric says.  "I mean, why?  I would think you'd have women chasing after you all the time."

 

"Well, you thought wrong,"  C.J. says, rather shortly.

 

Eric looks at his brother for a second.  "Oh, umm, you're not into guys, are you?"  He asks, somewhat awkwardly.

 

C.J. looks at him and laughs.  "No, man, I'm not.  I.......I just had a couple of bad relationships before I came to Dallas. The last one ended REALLY bad, which is why I was happy when my father sent me here to Dallas in the first place."

 

"So what happened?"  Eric asks.  "With the girl."

 

"Eric, if you don't mind, I really don't wanna talk about it right now," C.J. replies.  

 

"Yeah, sure, no problem.  I understand.  There's a couple things I've been through in my life I don't like to talk about, either."

 

"Well, maybe one of these cold, winter nights when we're sittin' around the apartment, I'll tell you all about my story, and you can tell me about yours."

 

"Deal,"  Eric says with a smile.  "Speaking of my staying in Dallas, when I spoke to my father's attorney yesterday, he gave me a message from my father."

 

"Oh?"

 

"Since Dad is locked up, and probably will be for the rest if his life, Love International is gonna be passed down to me, a lot sooner than expected,"  says Eric.  "And I've been doing some thinking.  A LOT of thinking, actually.  I like Dallas.  So, I was thinking about moving the corporate office here."

 

"Really?"  C.J. asks with a smile.

 

"Yeah.  You and your Dad moved Catlin Oil here.  No reason why I can't move Love International, as well.  Besides, with my Dad facing the rest of his life in prison........there's nothing left for me in San Francisco.  Aunt Donna is gonna be staying here for a while.  And you're here, so, the only family I have left in the world is right here in Dallas."

 

C.J. stops walking, and looks at Eric with a smile.  "Man, I can't tell you how happy that makes me.  It'll be great having you here."

 

"We sure have come a long way, haven't we?"  Eric asks.  "A few months ago when we first met, it was so awkward.  We didn't even know what to say to each other, but now, we're almost acting like real brothers."

 

"Hey, what do you mean ALMOST?"  C.J. asks, playfully hitting his brother on the side of the head.  

 

"I'm gonna get you back for that tonight, when you least expect it,"  Eric says.

 

"You're on.  Pillow fight?"  C.J. asks.  He suddenly stops smiling when he looks down the street and sees Dylan Baxter wandering around,, looking lost.  "Oh my God," he says.

 

"C.J., what is it?"  Eric asks.

 

"It's Dylan, Conner's brother,"  replies C.J.  "Come on."  C.J. makes his way down the street to Dylan, Eric following, the two approaching the young man.  "Dylan?"  C.J. says to him.

 Dylan turns and looks at him, his face still badly bruised from the severe beating he had endured several days earlier.  

 

"Dylan, bro, are you okay?"  C.J. asks.

 

Dylan acts as if he doesn't know C.J. and starts to walk away.  

 

"Dylan, wait,"  C.J. says, placing his hand on Dylan's shoulder.  

 

"No,"  Dylan says, pushing C.J.'s hand away, and in the process, he stumbles and almost falls. 

 

C.J. grabs him.  

 

"C.J., he looks like he's in bad shape,"  Eric says.  

 

"Yeah, he is."  C.J. helps Dylan over to a bench and sits him down.  "Dylan, are you drunk?"

 

"I........I......."  Dylan says.

 

"Dear God, he's burning up,"  C.J. says, feeling Dylan's head.  "He has a fever."

 

"Yeah, and he smells like he hasn't had a shower in about a week,"  Eric says.

 

"Eric, stay with him.  I'm gonna call Conner."  As Eric takes a seat on the bench beside Dylan, C.J. walks a few feet away from them and takes out his cell phone, dialing Conner's number.

The Krebbs Ranch....

As Conner, Ray, and Donna are finishing their breakfast, Conner's cell phone rings.  Conner picks the phone up and looks at it.  "It's C.J.," he says, then answers the call.  "C.J., what's up?"

Downtown Dallas....

 

"Conner, I'm here with Dylan,"  C.J. says.

 

"What?  Dylan is there with you?"

 

"Yeah, bro, he is."

 

 

 

The Krebbs Ranch....

"What?"  Conner asks.  "Oh my God.  Is he okay?  Can I talk to him?"

 

"He, uh, I don't really know how to answer your question of whether he's okay.  He seems really......dazed and out of it.   We found him wandering around downtown.  He doesn't even seem to know where he is.  So, I don't think he could really talk to you right now. I haven't been able to get anything about of him.  He's a real mess, man."

 

"Okay, where are you?"  Conner asks.  "I'm on my way."

 

Downtown Dallas....

 

"Look, why don't Eric and I just take him back to my place and you can pick him up there?"  C.J. asks.

 

"You sure, man?"  

 

"Yeah, I'm sure.  We're just right down the street from my apartment.  We'll take him back and try and get some food in him and get him warm.  He's nearly frozen, and I'm sure he has a fever.  Okay, I'll see you in a little while."

 

 

 

 

The Krebbs Ranch....

"Yeah, C.J., thanks for calling,"  Conner says, then he ends the call and puts the phone down.

 

"What'd C.J. say?"  Ray asks.

 

"He and his brother Eric, they found Dylan wandering around downtown,"  Conner replies.  "They're gonna take him back to C.J.'s apartment.  I have to get over there."

 

"I'm comin' with you,"  Ray says.

 

"Yeah, me, too,"  Donna says as the three quickly leave.

C.J.'s apartment.....

 

 

C.J. and Eric practically carry a disoriented Dylan into C.J.'s apartment a few minutes later.  Taking him to the sofa, they lay him down, and Dylan closes his eyes, as if he has immediately fallen asleep.

 

"C.J., are you sure this was a good idea, man?"  Eric asks.  "I mean, he's burning up with fever, and with flu season so bad this year......"

 

"Eric, I wasn't gonna just leave him there,"  C.J. says.  "It may be distant, but Dylan is still my cousin, and he's Conner's brother.  Look, if you're afraid he's contagious, then just go up to your room."

 

"Little late for that after I helped carry him back here,"  Eric says, then immediately feels bad.  "Dude, I'm sorry.  That was stupid.  You're right.  The guy's obviously in bad shape and we had to help him."

 

"Could you get him a glass of water?"

 

"Yeah, sure,"  Eric says.  

 

While Eric goes into the kitchen, C.J. again touches Dylan's head as Dylan begins to shiver.  "Hey, Dylan,"  C.J. says.  "Dylan, can you hear me?"

 

Dylan looks at him and nods.

 

"Man, are you in any pain?"  C.J. asks.

 

"Please......"  Dylan says in a low, soft voice that's barely audible.  "Please......"

 

"Please, what, bro?"  

 

"Please.......get me a drink,"  Dylan begs in tears.  "Get me a drink."

 

"Dylan, I'm sorry, but I can't do that,"  C.J. says.  

 

"Pleeeeeaaase,"  Dylan cries.  "I'm dying....."

 

"No, man, you're NOT gonna die,"  C.J. says as Eric returns with the glass of water, which he hands to his brother.

 

"Here, drink this.  It's water,"  C.J. says, raising Dylan's head with his left hand as he puts the glass to Dylan's lips with his right hand.  Dylan takes two sips of the water.  "Here, drink some more,"  C.J. says.  Dylan takes another sip of the water, then he begins to gag and heave as if he is about to throw up.  "Eric, QUICK!  Bring me that mop bucket!"

 

Eric runs into the kitchen, and hurries back carrying a mop bucket which he hands to C.J., who puts it on the floor beside the sofa.  As Dylan continues to heave, C.J. rolls him over onto right his side, and Dylan immediately begins to violently vomit into the bucket.  Eric looks on, sickened by the sight.  "Oh my God, that's so disgusting," he says. 

 

"Yeah, it is,"  agrees C.J.  "But, it's probably good for him to throw up.  I dunno, maybe it'll help clean out his system or something," he says as Dylan again throws up into the bucket.  

 

Eric goes into the kitchen, and a moment later returns with a wet kitchen towel.  "Here, this may help," he says, giving it to C.J.

 

"Thanks,"  C.J. says.  He gently wipes Dylan's mouth, then as Dylan lays his head back on the sofa, C.J. places the towel over the young man's forehead.  Just then, Dylan begins coughing violently, small amounts of blood coming from his mouth.  "Eric, call 911,"  C.J. says.  "He's coughing up blood.  He's REALLY sick, and his head feels hotter than it did before we got him here.'

 

Eric quickly takes his phone from his pocket and dials 911 while C.J. continues to do what he can to help Dylan.  

Ewing Oil....

"Well, since Catlin and I were forced to cut our honeymoon short, I was anxious to get back to work,"  Sue Ellen says.

 

"Well, it's great havin' ya back," says Bobby.

 

"Yeah, it sure is,"  Christopher says, hugging his aunt.  "We've missed you around here."

 

"Thank you, Christopher.  So what have I missed?"

 

Before Bobby is able to answer, his secretary, Janice, calls to him.  "Excuse me, Mr. Ewing, you have a phone call on line one.  It's Ted Wilson."

 

"Oh, great, I've been expecting his call.  Sue Ellen, Christopher, you two come with me."  

 

"Ted Wilson.....is that Wilson Petrol?"  Sue Ellen asks as she and Christopher follow Bobby into his office.  

 

"Yes it is,"  replies Bobby.  "I've been negotiating with him to buy his comp'ny.  He's probably ready to meet and discuss the final terms."  Bobby takes a seat at his desk, picks up his phone and presses the '1' button.  "Ted, hi," he says.  "I hope  you're callin' to say you're ready to close the deal."  As Sue Ellen and Christopher look on, the smile fades from Bobby's face.  "Ted, what are you sayin'?  We had a deal.  Yes, I know we didn't sign any contracts, but you gave me your word.  How much did they offer?  Ted, I can't believe you're doing this after we shook hands on this deal.  Yeah, well there was a time when a man's handshake and his word were as good as any piece of paper." Bobby listens to Ted Wilson on the other end of the line, then angrily slams his phone down, hanging up on the man. 

 

"Well, I don't have to guess too hard to figure out what that was all about."  Christopher says.  "Wilson went back on his word, didn't he?"

 "Yes, he did,"  replies Bobby.  "He's accepted an offer from Westar to buy his company."

 

"Westar?"  Sue Ellen asks.

 

 "Damn it.that's the second deal we've lost to Westar recently,"  says Christopher.  "First, John Ross's deal to buy Archer Refineries, and now THIS?"

 

"I don't know what the hell's goin' on, but I'm damned sure gonna find out,"  Bobby says, standing.  

 

"Bobby, what are you gonna do?"  Sue Ellen asks.

 

"I dunno yet.  But we'd better do somethin', and fast.  We can't afford to keep losing deals to Westar like this."

 

"Who besides you and Christopher knew that you were negotiating to but Wilson?"  Sue Ellen.

 

"Only a couple other people here at Ewing Oil"

 "Dad, there's something you need to know,"  Christopher says.  "Something you BOTH need to know."

 

"What is it, son?"  Bobby asks.

 

"This may be completely unrelated, but I don't think so.  It's too wild a coincidence.  But several months ago, John Ross and I both suspected that we had a spy in the company."

 

"Yes, I remember,"  Bobby says.

 

"Did either of you find out who the spy was?"  Sue Ellen asks.

 

"No.  John Ross was looking into it and he could never find out anything.  I hate to say this, but at one time.......I even suspected Jill."

 "Jill?"  Bobby asks in surprise.  "Why on Earth would you suspect Jill?"

 

"I'm curious to know the answer to that myself,"  says Sue Ellen.

 

"It wasn't long after Jill came to work at Ewing Oil,"  Christopher replies.  "There were just some things......but, I was obviously wrong.  Jill has been nothing but an asset to this company."

 

"But then again......there was a time when Jill was CEO of Westar, and she still owns stock in that company,"  Sue Ellen says.  "She was also very close to Tripp McKay at one time, if I recall."

 

"Sue Ellen, I really think we're jumpin' the gun here,"  Bobby says.  "Christopher, you said you were obviously wrong about Jill.  So, you never found any evidence?"

 

"No.  And as time passed and John Ross was never able to find out who the spy was, I forgot all about it until just now.  I even thought maybe we were wrong and there never was a spy."

 

"Well it's obvious that somethin's goin' on,"  says Bobby.  "Because only a handful of people knew that we were negotiating with Ted Wilson to buy his company, and that's me, Christopher, John Ross, and Janice."

 

"I think we should have all the offices and phones checked for bugs,"  Christopher suggests.

 

"I think that's a wonderful idea,"  Sue Ellen agrees.

 

"So do I,"  says Bobby.  "Christopher, can you take care of that?"

 

"I'm on it,"  Christopher says, quickly leaving the office.  

 

Bobby and Sue Ellen exchange looks of worry.

Texas Health Presbyterian Hospital....

 Ray, Donna, and Conner rush into the emergency department at Texas Health Presbyterian Hospital.  Seated in a waiting room down the hall, C.J. sees them enter and heads down the hall to meet them.  "Conner," he says.

 

"C.J., how is he?"  Conner asks.  "How's my brother?"

 

"They're examining him now."

 

"C.J., where'd you find him?"  Ray asks.

 

"Downtown, near Klyde Warren Park.  He was just wandering around, like he didn't know where he was.  I don't think he did."

 

"Was he drunk?"  Conner asks.

 

"It was hard to tell,"  C.J. replies as Eric walks up to them.  "We took him back to my apartment.  He was nearly frozen, and, once there, he became very ill.  He threw up a couple times, and he was burning up with fever, so I thought it best to get him here as soon as possible."

 

"Bro, thank you so much for what you did,"  says Conner.

 

"Hey, no problem, man.  What's family for?  Speaking of which, you guys remember my brother, Eric Love?"

 

"Sure, hi, Eric,"  Ray says, shaking hands with the young man.

 

"Hello, Eric," says Donna.  

 

"Hi."

 

Conner lets out a deep sigh.  "I sure wish I knew what was going on in there."

 

"I'm sure we'll hear something soon,"  Donna says, putting her hand on Conner's shoulder.  

Braddock Medical Center....early afternoon

 A light snow has fallen over Braddock as Alex is dozing off in his hospital bed when Bridget comes to his open door and looks in.  Seeing that he is sleeping, the girl smiles.  As she turns to leave, Alex opens his eyes and sees her.  "Hey," he calls to her.

 

Bridget turns and walks into the room, going to his bedside.  "I'm sorry, I wasn't gonna wake you."

 

"You didn't," he says.  "I was just resting."

 

Bridget takes his hand, looks at him, and smiles.  "I'm so glad that you're gonna be okay.  You have no idea how worried I was."

 

"I'm glad you're okay, too."

 

"I'm better than okay.  The doctor is letting me go home,"  Bridget says.

 

"Now?"

 

"Yeah.  But I had to come and see you first."

 

"I'm glad you did,"  Alex says.  "I'm so sorry."

 

"Sorry for what?"  Bridget asks.  "Alex, the accident wasn't your fault."

 

"I was driving the car.  Bridget, you could've been killed."

 

"So could you.  I was so scared."

 

Alex sighs.  "That other car.  It just came out of nowhere.  It was coming right for us."

 

"I know,"  says Bridget.  "The police said that if you hadn't swerved when you did, we'd have collided head on with the other car, and we probably would've botb been killed.  So, Alex, your quick thinking saved our lives."

 

"Whoever was driving that car that almost hit us had to have been drunk or something."

 

"No, actually, he wasn't,"  Bridget says.

 

"How do you know?  Do you know who it was?"  Alex asks.

 

"Yeah.  It was Conner Ewing."

 

"What?"  Asks a stunned Alex.  "Conner Ewing?"

 

"Yep.  Apparently, he was messing around with his cell phone.  Probably texting and driving, and he wasn't paying attention."

 

"Oh, wow.  I never would've suspected him at all."

 

"Well, he was arrested and charged with reckless driving or something.  I hope they throw the book at him.  I know he's a relative of yours, but, there's no excuse for that.  Even I have better sense than to text and drive, and he couldn't killed both of us."

 

"Yeah,"  Alex says with a sigh.  

 

"Oh, by the way, it's actually been snowing outside."

 

"Really?"  Alex asks.

 

"Yeah, it started about an hour ago."

 

"Damn, I wish I could see it instead of being stuck in here."

 

"Hold that thought,"  Bridget says.  She walks over to the window and opens the blinds, allowing Alex to see the snow coming down outside. 

 

"Wow, that's beautiful," he says.  "That's one thing I miss about living in New York, is having a white Christmas.  Texas hardly ever has one."

 

"I know,"  Bridget says as her grandmother, Donna Love, comes to the door.  

 

"Bridget,"  Donna Love says.

 

"Oh, Grandmother."

 

"Darling, we had better go.  It's starting to snow again, and pretty hard, and we don't wanna be stranded."

 

"Alright, I'm coming."

 

"Just hurry,"  Donna says.  "Alex, it's good to see you making a nice recovery."

 

"Thank you, Ms. Love,"  Alex says, and Donna turns and leaves.

 

Bridget walks over to his bedside.  "Well, I'd better go.  If the roads aren't bad, I'll come see you tomorrow."

 

"I'll look forward to it.  Text me when you get back to Dallas?  My Mom bought me a new Iphone."

 

"I will,"  Bridget says.  The girl leans down and kisses him.  "I don't know what I would've done if anything had happened to you."

 

"I feel the same."

 

"You just hurry and get out of this hospital.  School starts back in a couple of days, and I sure don't wanna have to walk through those doors at Braddock High without you."

 

Alex smiles.  "I'll be back in my feet soon.  And then we'll have that night we DIDN'T get to have on New Year's Eve."

 

"Holding you to that, Walton,"  Bridget says.  She kisses him again, then leaves the room.  Alex watches the girl with a smile as she walks out.

Texas Heath Prebyterian Hospital....

Meanwhile, Conner is anxiously leaning against the wall in  the waiting room at Texas Health Presbyterian as Donna is standing at a window looking out.  "I think the snow has stopped for now," she says.  

 

"Good,"  says Ray.  "I hope Ben and the other hands got everything taken care of at the ranch."

 

"Look, if you guys wanna go on home and check on everything,"  Conner says.

 

"No, nothin' doin',"  Ray says.  "Not until we find out what's goin' on with Dylan.  The hands'll take care of the ranch."

 

"God, how long has it been?"  Conner asks.  "Seems like hours."

 

"It's been almost two hours since we brought him in,"  C.J. says.  

 

"C.J., you know you don't have to stick around."

 

"I want to, man.  I'm not goin' anywhere."

 

"I appreciate it, man.  I appreciate everything you've done."

 

C.J. walks over and puts his hand on Conner's shoulder.  "It's like I said earlier......that's what family's for."

 

Mitch walks into the room.  "Mitch,"  Ray says.

 

"How's Dylan?"  Conner asks, rushing over to Mitch. 

 

"Dylan is a very sick young man,"  Mitch replies.

 

"What's wrong with him?"  Donna asks.

 

"Dylan has pneumonia, in both lungs."

 

"Pneumonia?"  Conner asks.  "Double pneumonia, that's really bad, isn't it?"

 

"Yes.  Dylan's body wasn't healed from the beating he took several days ago.  His lungs and his immune system were already weak, and it's obvious he was out in the cold all night, exposed to the elements.  His recent heavy alcohol consumption also made him vulnerable, and that, combined made him more prone to getting sick.  If he had been just a couple of hours later getting here, it would've been too late."

 

"Oh God,"  Conner says in tears.  "Is he gonna be okay, Mitch?  Please be honest with me."

 

"Conner, your brother's condition is very serious, but, we're gonna do everything we can to treat him.  Strong antibiotics, fluids, and at least a week of in hospital bed rest.  Dylan has a lot going for him.  He's young, and his body is otherwise strong and healthy.  That's half the battle.  And this is the best hospital in this part of Texas."

 

"If this was the best hospital, then how come you let my brother walk out of here in the condition he was in and get pneumonia?"  Conner snaps.  "Mitch, I'm sorry.  I......"

 

"No, it's okay,"  Mitch says.  "I understand, and, we do accept full responsibility for Dylan walking out of here the other night."

 

"Mitch, that wasn't the hospital's fault,"  Donna says.  "No one could've known that would happen."

 

"Can I see my brother?"  Conner asks.  

 

"Soon.  We're having Dylan moved to ICU, and as soon as we get him settled, you can all see him."

 

"Thanks, Mitch,"  says Ray.  

 

"I'll let you know when Dylan's been moved,"  Mitch says, then turns and walks out of the room.

 

"Oh, God,"  Conner cries.  "This is all my fault.  It's all my fault."

 

"Bro, that's ridiculous,"  says C.J.  "This is NOT your fault."

 

At that moment, Todd Baxter rushes into the hospital.  Spotting Conner and the others in the waiting room, Todd hurries in to them.  "Dylan, where is he?"

 

"They're moving him to ICU,"  Conner replies.

 

 

"ICU?  Dear God, what the hell happened to him?"

 

"He has double pneumonia,"  Donna replies.  

 

"Yes,"  says Conner.  

 

Todd looks at him.  "I heard you say this was your fault.  Yeah, you damned right it is.  Ever since my brother went to live with you people, he's had one problem after another."

 

"And you think his life with your family was so much better?"  Conner angrily asks.  "You want the reason Dylan is SO messed up......then take a look in the mirror, man.  You're nothing but a self-righteous hypocrite who couldn't even tell his family that you were gay, so you tried to kill yourself.  How do think walking in and finding the big brother he idolized almost dead after a drug overdose affected him, huh?  Your screwed up family never gave a damn about Dylan.  He never got any love at all until he came to live with me, Ray, and Donna."

 

"You little son of a bitch!"  Todd says, lunging for Dylan.  Ray steps between them and shoves Todd against the wall.

 

"Alright, that's enough!"  Ray says.  

 

"Neither one of you are doing Dylan any good right now,"  says Donna.

 

"Conner, come on man, he's not worth it,"  C.J. says.

 

Conner looks at Todd.  "You're right.....he's NOT worth it."

 

"You just wait, Ewing," Todd says.  "Your big mouth just got you in a world of trouble.  You forget, I'm an assistant D.A.  And even though Braddock is out of my jurisdiction, I do have friends in the D.A.'s office there who owe me favors.  I've also gotten to know several of the judges there."

 

"Just what the hell are you gettin' at, Baxter?"  Ray asks.

 

"I can make it very hard on you, Ewing.  Reckless driving?  Texting while driving, resulting in the serious injuries of two teenagers.  One of which is the son of John Ross Ewing.  I sure wouldn't wanna be in your shoes when that one goes to court,"  Todd says, then walks out of the room, leaving Ray, Donna, Conner, and C.J. standing there.

A few minutes later....

Conner is fuming with anger as C.J. hands him a cup of coffee.  "I've never in my LIFE hated another human being, but I really HATE that jackass,"  Conner says, C.J. taking a seat beside him on the sofa.  "He and that screwed up Baxter family is the reason Dylan has so many problems, and it all started when his father murdered mine and Dylan's father.  And Todd was the reason Dylan ran John Ross down in his car.  God, every issue, every problem Dylan has goes back to that damned Baxter family.  And Todd is just as crazy as his murdering father."

 

"Conner, Todd Baxter is not worth getting this worked up over,"  C.J. says.

 

 

"C.J. is right,"  says Donna.  "Dylan is going to need for you to be strong for him right now, and you don't need to be upset when you see him."

 

"I know.  I'm sorry."

 

"No need to apologize,"  says Ray.  "That Todd Baxter could probably drive Mother Theresa to punch him in the mouth."

 

"Well, given the fact that he IS an assistant district attorney, I wouldn't advise that,"  Donna says as Mitch returns.

 

"We've moved Dylan to a room in Intensive Care,"  Mitch says.  "Conner, you, Ray, and Donna can go in and see him now.  I'll take you to him."

 

"Thanks, Mitch,"  Ray says.

 

"C.J., thanks, man, for everything,"  Conner says.

 

"No problem, bro, I'm gonna head on out,"  says C.J.  "Give me a call later and let me know how Dylan's doing."

 

"I will."

 

"Alright, later, guys,"  C.J. says as Conner and the Krebbs follow Mitch from the waiting room and down the hall.  C.J. watches them for a few seconds, then leaves.

Southfork....afternoon....

 "Yes they are,"  Lucas says.  "I sure used to love a good snowball fight when I was a kid.  In fact.........I still do now."  Smiling, Lucas walks over and picks up a pile of snow in his gloved hand and rolls it into a ball, then looks at his wife mischievously.

 

"Oh, no,"  Heather says, backing away.  "Lucas Ewing, don't you DARE throw that at me."

 

Lucas looks at the boys and smiles.  "What do ya think, guys?  Should I?"

 

"Go on, Dad, do it,"  says Michael, holding an even larger ball of snow.  

 

"Lucas.....no,"  Heather says, continuing to back away from her husband.

 

Lucas teasingly moves toward her slowly, Michael and Jacob also easing toward Heather.  

 

"I'm warnin' you guys, do NOT throw those at me,"  Heather says.

 

Lucas looks at the two boys, smiles, and gives a wink.  Then Lucas, Michael, and Jacob all three bombard Heather with their snowballs. 

 

"Oh, I'm gonna get you guys for that!"  Heather says.  She picks up a hand full of snow, rolls it into a ball, then hurls it at Lucas, and the snowball fight is on between the two adults and two kids as Bobby's car pulls into the driveway and comes to a stop.  

 

Bobby and Christopher get out of the car.  "Well, looks like you guys are having a great time enjoying the snow,"  Christopher says.

 

"Yeah, why don't you go change clothes and you anc Courtney come join us?"  Lucas asks, just as a snowball smacks him in the face, courtesy of Michael.

 

"Sounds like a good idea,"  Christopher says.  

 

"You too, Grandpa!"  Michael yells to Bobby.

 

"Nah, I think I'll pass,"  says Bobby. "The only thing these old bones want is to sit by the fire sipping hot chocolate for the rest of the afternoon."

 

Courtney comes out of the house to meet them.  "Hey," she says, giving Christopher a kiss.  "I'm glad you guys are home.  The weather man on TV just said the roads are starting to get really bad."

 

"Yeah, we heard that, so we decided to come home early."

 

"Hey, where's your car?"  Courtney asks.

 

"Well, when Dad and I were leaving Ewing Oil, my car was slow to start, and it was making a funny noise, so I had it towed to a garage for 'em to look at it, and I rode home with Dad.

Courtney smiles.  "Good," she says, kissing him again, the two heading into the house.

Jeremy Wendell's penthouse....

 Jeremy walks into the living room of his penthouse apartment late that afternoon and finds Katherine talking to someone on her cell phone.   "Yes, darling," she says to the person she is talking to.  "I know, and everything will be just fine, I promise.  You do what the doctors tell you to do, and I'll come and see you as soon as I can.  There are a few things I need to take care of here, and then I'll come and be with you.  Right now, you just need to concentrate on getting better.  Katelyn, it'll be alright.  I love you, darling, and I promise, I'll see you very soon.  Bye."  Katherine ends the call and puts her phone away.  

 

"You really think it wise to be phoning your daughter from here?"  Jeremy asks.

 

"Jeremy I have the burner phone you gave me.  It can't be traced."

 

"I just don't want anything to destroy my plans before they come to fruition.  You're a wanted fugitive, Katherine.  Wanted as an accessory to murder, and for the attempted murder of Ann Ewing.  I won't take any chances.  From now on, if you want updates on your daughter in the sanitarium, I'll check on her for you."

 

Katherine gives him an angry look, then walks to the window and looks out at the snow falling over the city.  "I feel like a caged animal being cooped up in this apartment.  Especially with this snow.  If I could only get out and get some air."

 

"But of course, you know that's impossible under the circumstances,"  Jeremy says.  "If anyone spotted you, or if anyone knew you were back in Dallas..........it would be over for both of us.  You think you're going stir crazy here in my luxurious apartment, but imagine how you would feel sitting in a prison cell."

 

"You don't have to keep reminding me of how precarious my situation is,"  Katherine says.  

 

"I only want you to realize how important it is for you to remain hidden."

 

"Don't you think I know that?"

 

"I'm beginning to wonder."

 

"How do you think I feel, Jeremy?"  Katherine asks.  "I know how important it is for no one to find out I'm back in Dallas.  But at the same time, I am worried SICK about three of my children.  My daughter is in a mental hospital recovering from a breakdown while two of my sons are missing.  I have no idea where Austin or Brian are."

 

"I understand that,"  says Jeremy.  "But there's absolutely nothing you can do for your children from a prison cell."

 

Katherine walks over to him.  "You promised me that you would do everything in your power to find Austin and Brian for me."

 

"And I have been."

 

"Have you, Jeremy?  Have you REALLY been searching diligently for my sons?  Or have you just been stringing me along so I'll help you in your little plot to destroy the Ewings?"

 

"You're just going to have to trust me."

 

"Trust you?"  Katherine asks.   "I'd feel safer with a rattlesnake in bed next to me."

 

"The pot calling the kettle black.  I may have done some questionable things in my lifetime, but I've never shot anyone in cold blood.  Least of all someone I claim to have loved."

 

"Love?"  Katherine asks.  "Have you EVER loved anyone, Jeremy?"

 

"As a matter of fact......I have,"  Jeremy replies, pouring himself a drink.  

 

Jeremy's butler, William, walks in.   "Excuse me, Mr. Wendell?"

 

"Yes, William, what is it?"  Jeremy asks.

 

"Mr. McKay is here to see you."

 

Jeremy pauses for a second before replying.  "Thank you, William.  Give us a moment, and then send my grandson in."

 

"Yes, sir,"  William says, then he walks out of the room, closing the door behind him.

 

"You need to make yourself scarce,"  Jeremy tells Katherine.

 

Katherine nods, then quickly heads up the stairs of the penthouse.  Jeremy takes a sip of his drink, then walks over to the window and looks out.  Almost a minute later, William returns with Tripp following him.  

 

"Can I get you anything, Mr. McKay?"  William asks.

 

"No, thank you, William, I'm fine."

 

"That will be all, William,"  Jeremy says, turning to face them.  The butler nods, then leaves the room.  "Tripp, I'm very glad you stopped by."

 

"Yeah, I was on my way home from the office.  Weather's getting pretty nasty out."

 

"Yes, I can see that from up here."

 

"I wanted to touch base with you and let you know that I signed the contract today with Ted Wilson to buy his company,"  Tripp says.

 

"Well, that IS good news,"  says Jeremy.  "Things are proceeding along quite nicely."

 

"Yes, they are.  Now, what about that land in Cherokee County the Ewings own?  How are we gonna get our hands on that?"

 

Jeremy looks at his grandson and smiles.  "You just leave that to me, Tripp."

 

"Alright, but on two conditions,"  Tripp says.  "That you don't do something crazy like you did the last time you tried to take a piece of land away from the Ewing."

 

"You have nothing to worry about,"  Jeremy says.  "I will NOT be making the same mistakes again."

 

"Good."

 

"And what's your other condition?"  

 

"Your spy at Ewing Oil,"  replies Tripp.  "I'd like to know who it is."

 

"Why?  Why is that so important?"

 

Tripp smiles.  "Because.......Grandfather........I like to know everyone I'm dealing with.  I hate surprises.  And, last year, I also had someone working for me on the inside at Ewing Oil.  Maybe your spy and mine are one and the same."

 

Jeremy looks at the young man and again flashes a smile.  He pulls his cell phone from his pocket.  "As a matter of fact, Tripp........."  Jeremy says, handing Tripp his phone.  

 

Tripp takes the phone and looks at it.  "You've gotta be kidding.  This IS the same I had spying for me."

 

"Well, you know what they say.  Great minds think alike."

 

"Wait a minute.  This is too wild a coincidence.  Did you KNOW who my spy at Ewing Oil was?  Is that why you chose this person?"

 

"Now Tripp, how could I have known that?"  Jeremy asks with a sly smile.  

 

"I don't know how you could've known, but somehow, you did,"  Tripp says, looking at the man curiously.  "Jeremy, let me give you a word of advice."

 

"Advice, Tripp?"

 

"Yes,, ADVICE.  I'm in this with you one hundred percent because I wanna see the Ewings brought down just as much as you do.  But don't you even dare think about double crossing me, or spying on me, or throwing another little surprise my way like you did at the Oil Baron's Ball.  Because the first time I see that you're not being straight with me.........I'll make you one very sorry old man."

 

"You're threatening me?"  Jeremy asks.  

 

"It's not a threat.  It's a warning, and a promise.  I don't like to be double crossed.  I don't take that from anyone.  Not even my own grandfather."

 

"Tripp, you have just made me very proud, indeed."

 

"Proud?  I just warned you not to double cross me or I'd make you sorry, and you say you're proud?"

 

"Yes.  Because you have proven yourself to be a very strong, and very ruthless young man.  You're very much like me, Tripp.  I don't tolerate being double crossed, either, so that threat you just made to me, also goes for you."

 

"Good, then we understand each other?"  Tripp asks.  

 

"Yes, we do,"  Jeremy replies.  "I don't double cross you, and you don't double cross me, and the two of us will get along just fine.  Now, would you like to have a drink and toast your success with buying Wilson Petrol?"

 

"Thank you, but, no.  I'd like to get home before it gets dark and the roads get any icier.  I'll be in touch.  Goodnight."

 

"Night,"  Jeremy says as Tripp leaves.  After a few seconds, Jeremy laughs, then walks to his bar and pours himself another drink as Katherine comes down the stairs.   

 

"Well," she says.  "Your grandson seems like a very determined and forceful young man."

 

"He is.  Tripp is a lot like me, and that makes me extremely proud.  He'll do very well."

 

"So how exactly DID you know who Tripp had spying for him at Ewing Oil?"  Katherine asks.

 

Jeremy turns to her.  "Katherine, why don't you just mind your own business and concentrate on holding up your end of our bargain.  You do that, and you and I will get along just fine.  Now if you'll excuse me, I have some work to do in my office.  Why don't you......watch television or something?"  Jeremy leaves the room.

 

Katherine pauses a moment, an angry look on her face.  "I don't trust you, Jeremy,"  she says softly after he leaves.  "I'll hold up my end of our bargain.  And you'd damned well better hold up yours, because if you don't.......I swear, I'll kill you."

Meanwhile....

As Tripp steps of the elevator in the lobby on the first floor of the building, he almost runs directly into his younger brother.  "Shawn?"  Tripp says, surprised to see the boy.  "What are you doing here?"

 

"I came here to see HIM,"  Shawn replies.  "I came to see Jeremy Wendell, our grandfather.  That's where you just came from, isn't it?"

 

"You know about Jeremy Wendell?  Mom told you?"

 

"Yeah, I know all about him, and no, Mom didn't tell me.  I overheard you and her talking a few days ago."

 

"She know you're here?"  Tripp asks.

 

"No.  She's at work.  I was curious about my grandfather, so I wanted to come and meet him."

 

"Shawn, that's not a good idea.  Not a good idea at all.  Best thing for you to do is go back home and stay far away from Jeremy Wendell,"  Tripp says.

 

Shawn looks at his brother curiously.

Sue Ellen's home....

 As Catlin is doing his nightly exercises beside their bed in his and Sue Ellen's bedroom, she is sitting up in bed reading over some reports from Ewing Oil.  After he completes his sit ups, Catlin stretches, then stands, and crawls into bed next to his wife.  

 

"Ah, that always feels good,"  Catlin says.  

 

"Yes,"  Sue Ellen says, not paying much attention.

 

"You know, you should join me one night in a work out."

 

"If I did, I wouldn't be able to move the next morning,"  she says.

 

"Your body would get use to it,"  Catlin says, kissing her on the neck.

 

"Sweetheart, please,"  Sue Ellen says, pulling away.  

 

"Honey, I only wanna spend some time with my wife after we both had a long day back at work."

 

"I know, but I have to get these reports read by tomorrow."

 

Catlin sighs.  "Do you have to do it NOW?"

 

"Catlin, I was away from the office for a while.  I have a lot of catching up to do.  And, we have other worries at Ewing Oil."

 

"What other worries?"  Catlin asks.

 

"Westar,"  Sue Ellen replies.  "Lately, Ewing Oil has lost a couple of very big deals to Westar.  Christopher seems to think there may be a spy in the company."

 

"A spy?  At Ewing Oil?"

 

"Yes.  Somehow, Tripp McKay seems to know things.........things about deals Ewing has in the works.  And the only way he could know about these deals would be if he has inside information, or.........."

 

"Or what?"  Catlin asks.

 

"Or........if our offices and phones at Ewing Oil are bugged.  They have a man coming first thing tomorrow, while everyone is out of the office, to do a sweep for listening devices."

 

"Good Lord.  I'm sorry.  I know how stressful that must be for you, and Bobby and the others."

 

"Yes.  It's that same old feud that's been going on for decades.  Ewing Oil and Westar.  The Ewings and the McKays... ........and Jeremy Wendell."

 

"Jeremy Wendell?"  Catlin asks.

 

"Yes.  You remember, I told you about him."

 

"Oh, yes, he use to run Westar.  He and J.R. had a long running feud going."

 

Sue Ellen nods.  "That's right.  Wendell cost the family Ewing Oil once, and later he started a range war at Southfork that almost got several people killed, including Bobby and Christopher."

 

"A range war?  Why?"

 

"One section of Southfork sits on top of one of the largest pools of oil in the state, and Wendell wanted that land.  So, he did all he could to force the Ewings to sell.  That was why he went to prison.  And now, he's back in Dallas and, according to Bobby, just as vindictive as ever.  And, Bobby told me something that completely blew me away."

 

"What?"  Catlin asks.

 

"Tripp McKay is Jeremy Wendell's grandson."

 

"You're kidding."

 

"I wish I were,"  Sue Ellen says.  "Having Wendell as not only his grandfather, but also his ally makes Tripp McKay a very dangerous young man.  And worst of all.......I'm afraid I may have an idea of who the spy is."

 

"Who?"  Catlin asks.

 

"I'd rather not say right now."

 

"Sue Ellen, you know you can trust me..  I'm not going to say a word about this to anyone.  Not even to C.J."

 

Sue Ellen looks at her husband.  "I'm afraid that, the Ewing Oil spy could be Jill."

 

"Sue Ellen, you're not serious.  Jill?  That's impossible.  She's J.R.'s daughter and John Ross's half-sister.  Why on Earth would she spy for the enemy?"

 

 

 

 

"Jill and Tripp McKay used to be......involved......before he dumped her for Pamela.  Maybe, now that Tripp is divorced, Jill is trying to rekindle that old relationship.  I've never trusted her.  And I'm certainly going to be keeping a very close eye on that girl."

 

 

 

 

 

Southfork....

"Didn't you notice?"  Courtney asks.  "Jacob was the only member of the family who didn't seem happy about Michael's good news."

 

"I did notice he seemed a little quiet, especially at dinner.  I just thought he was tired from playing in the snow all afternoon."

 

"No, it's more than that,"  Courtney says.  "I saw the look on Jacob's face this morning when he heard Michael's news."

 

"You think he's jealous?"  Christopher asks.

 

"Green with envy.  He  probably feels neglected, like everyone was paying so much attention to Michael, and no one was paying attention to him."

 

"Well, tomorrow's Saturday, so I'll spend the whole day with him.  Show him that he's not being neglected."  

 

"That would be wonderful.  Now that we've talked about what's bothering Jacob......what's bothering YOU?"  Courtney asks.

 

Christopher sighs.  "We got trouble at Ewing Oil."

 

"What kind of trouble?"

 

"Honey, I can't really get into the details, but, we may have a spy at Ewing Oil."

 

"What?  A spy?"

 

"Yeah,"  Christopher replies.  "Last year, John Ross and I both suspected we had a spy at the company.  John Ross looked into it, but he could never find any concrete evidence on anyone, so I forgot all about it until today."

 

"Have you talked to John Ross about it?"  Courtney asks.

 

"No.  He's been so preoccupied lately with Alex in the hospital, I didn't wanna throw this on him, too.  Dad, Sue Ellen, and I can handle this."

 

"And Jill.  I'm sure she would be glad to help, too."

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

"Yeah........Jill,"  Christopher says with a sigh, a worried look on his face.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Tripp McKay's apartment....

 As heavy snow falls over the city of Dallas that night, Tripp pours two glasses of champagne in his apartment, carries them over to his bed and hands one glass to a woman.  "A toast," he says, raising his glass.

 

"What are we toasting?"  The woman asks.

 

"Another deal Westar has successfully closed that should have been Ewing Oil's."

 

"If you don't mind, I'd rather NOT toast that.  I hate doing this, Tripp."

 

"And why exactly do you hate doing this?"

 

"Because......."

 "Because of Bobby Ewing?"  Tripp asks, looking at the woman with a smile.

 

"Yes,"  the woman replies.  "Bobby has been very good to me.  They all have.  Sue Ellen, Christopher, even John Ross."

 

"But are they being as generous to you as I am?  And as my grandfather is?"  Tripp asks.  "It's very ironic, isn't it?  Him, knowing exactly who to get to spy on the Ewings for him?  The same woman I've been using as a spy for the past 10 months.  But that wasn't a coincidence, was it?  Jeremy Wendell knew about us, didn't he?"

 

"Yes."

 

"How?  That old bastard been spying on me?"  

 

"He was spying on ME.  Wendell needed someone close to the Ewings, an insider in the company.  He dug into my background, and bugged my apartment.  He heard us together.  That's when he contacted me."

 

"That son of a........"  Tripp stops short and looks at the woman.  "Can you keep your mouth shut and not say a word to my grandfather that you told me that?"

 

"Are you kidding?  If he knew I told you, he'd have my head."

 

"Good.  Remember that, because I'm gonna need you.  Look, I know you hate this and you feel loyal to the Ewings, and I get that.  But who means more to you than Bobby Ewing and the rest of his family?  Your OWN family?  You help me, and I promise, they will never want for anything else, ever again.  Neither will you.  I've always come through for you, whenever your brother had a big gambling debt, haven't I?"

 

"Yes, Tripp, you have," the woman replies.  

 

"And I'll continue to come through.  I'll even make those bad guys leave your brother alone, as long as you remain loyal to me."

 

"What about your grandfather?"  The woman asks.

 

"Once I destroy the Ewings........I'll take that old man down.  And once Wendell's out of the way, I stand to inherit a LOT of money.  $375 million, and, one day when my Mom dies, I'll inherit her half of Wendell's money, too."

 

"Half?  Wait, what about your little brother, Shawn?  I thought one third of your grandfather's money was going to him."

 

Tripp looks at her and smiles.  "My little brother is just a minor technicality. Easily disposed of.  He betrayed me by planting listening devices in my apartment several months ago for John Ross.  I owe him for that, and I intend to pay him back.......in spades."

 

"I've heard stories about Jeremy Wendell, and about J.R. Ewing, and I have to say, Tripp......you make those two look like choir boys the way you're talking right now."

 

Tripp touches the woman's silky hair and smiles.  "Being ruthless is the only way to get what you want.  I have the blood of both Jeremy Wendell AND Carter McKay flowing through my veins.  That's a double dose of ruthlessness.  And, you'd do well to remember that, Janice."  Tripp leans over and kisses the woman, who is none other than Janice, Bobby Ewing's longtime secretary!

END OF EPISODE 161....