EPISODE 164 - Skipping Stones

 Bobby, Sue Ellen, and Catlin rush into Braddock Medical Center and approach a nurse's station.  "Excuse me,"  Sue Ellen says to the nurse at the desk.  

 

"Yes, may I help you?"  The nurse asks.  

 

Before Sue Ellen can answer, Bobby sees Ann come out of a waiting room down the hall.  The three immediately proceed down the hall to meet her.  

 

"Ann, how is she?"  Sue Ellen asks.

 

"Krystina is in surgery now,"  Ann replies.  "John Ross is in the waitin' room."

 

Sue Ellen and Catlin enter the waiting room and find John Ross sitting on a sofa, a look of worry on his face.  Sue Ellen walks over to her son and takes a seat beside him.  "John Ross," she says.

 

"Krystina's in surgery,"  John Ross says.  "They said they had to do an emergency C-section on her, or both she and the baby could die."

 

"John Ross, I'm sure everything that can be done, is being done,"  says Catlin.  

 

"John Ross, I phoned Krystle on my way over here to tell her what was happening,"  Sue Ellen says.  "She's going to use the Carrington jet to fly here, so she should be here in a few hours."

 

John Ross nods.  "Good.  Thank you, Mama."

 

Bobby and Ann walk into the room.  "Is there anything we can do for you, John Ross?"  Bobby asks.  "Anything you need?"

 

John Ross looks up at his uncle and sighs.  "Only thing I need right now is for my wife and child to be okay," he replies sadly.  He stands to his feet and walks to the window and looks out as Sue Ellen, Catlin, Bobby, and Ann watch him with concern and sympathy.

Ewing Records....

 Christopher walks into Ewing Records and approaches the receptionist's desk as Pamela comes out of her office.  "Christopher, hello,"  Pamela says, walking over to him.

 

"Hi, Pamela, is Justin around?"

 

"No, he had a ,meeting downtown.  Why?  Is anything wrong?"  

 

"Actually, yes, there is,"  Christopher says.

 

At that moment, Justin walks in, still fuming from his meeting with Tripp McKay, and he is surprised to see bis cousin.  "Christopher," Justin says.

 "Hi.  Umm, I'm glad I caught you,"  Christopher says.  "I have some news, and I wanted to come down and tell you in person.  It's about Krystina."

 

"Krystina?"  Justin asks.  "What's wrong with Krystina?"

 

"Ann called.  Krystina went into labor a couple weeks early.  They took her to the hospital in Braddock, and, there were complications.  They had to rush her into surgery for an emergency C-section to save her and the baby."

 

"My God, is she gonna be alright?"  Pamela asks.

 

"We don't know,"  replies Christopher.  "Right now, it's touch and go."

 

"Christopher, thanks"  says Justin.  "I need to get to the hospital."

 

"I'll come with you,"  Pamela says.

 

"No,"  Justin says, quickly.  "You'd, ummm, you'd better stay here.  I'll call you."

 

"Okay,"  Pamela says with a nod, hurt that Justin doesn't want her to come with him.

 

"I'm gonna head on over myself,"  Christopher says.   "I'll follow you."

 

"Sure,"  Justin says.  He looks at Pamela, then he and Christopher leave together.  Pamela sighs as she shakes her head, wondering why Justin was acting so coldly toward her just now.

 Courtney and Jacob are sitting on the floor in the den at Southfork that afternoon playing with Little John when Alex and Michael enter the foyer, having just gotten home from school, Bridget McKinnon with them.  The two boys take their book bags off and toss them to the floor in the foyer and walk into the den with Bridget.

 

"Hey," Alex says.  

 

"Hi, guys,"  says Courtney.

 

"Where is everyone?"  Alex asks.  "It's so quiet around here."

 

 John Ross paces around the waiting room at Braddock Medical Center while Bobby, Ann, Jimmy, and Lucy sit on the sofa.  Christopher and Justin are sitting on another sofa opposite them, Justin and Jimmy exchanging looks between them every now and then, but none of the Ewings saying a word as they anxiously wait for news of Krystina's condition.  The silence is finally broken when Sue Ellen and Catlin walk into the room carrying cups of coffee.  

 

"Well, we have coffee,"  Sue Ellen says.  

 

"Would anyone like anything else?"  Catlin asks.

 

John Ross walks to the window and looks out.  

 

"Thank you, Catlin, I think we're fine,"  replies Bobby.  

 

Sue Ellen walks over to her son and lovingly rubs his back.  "John Ross, we have to believe that Krystina and the baby will be fine."

 

"It's been so long.  How long can a damned Cesarean take, anyway?"

 

"Well, when I had mine the day you were born, I was in surgery for hours,"  Sue Ellen says.  "Of course, I don't remember, but, that's what I've been told."

 

"Well, I was there and I can attest to that fact,"  says Bobby.  "When Sue Ellen had her Ceserean it seemed like she was in surgery forever.  But really, it just SEEMED that way.  It was because we were all so anxious and worried."

 

"John Ross?"  Says Krystle Carrington, as she walks into the room with her stepson Steven Carrington and stepdaughter, Fallon Carrington Colby.  

 

John Ross turns to his mother-in-law.  "Krystle, I'm glad y'all are here," he says, walking over to her.  

 

Krystle gives him a hug.  "How is she?  How is my baby girl?"

 

John Ross pulls out of the embrace and looks at the woman.  "We don't know yet, she's still in surgery."

 

"You mean they haven't told you anything?"  Fallon asks.

 

"No.  Not a damned thing."

 

"She'll be fine,"  Fallon says.  "I know my little sister, and she's very strong."

 

"I hope you're right."

 

"Krystle,"  Sue Ellen says, walking over to them.

 

"Hello Sue Ellen,"  Krystle says.  "Thank you so much for calling me."

 

"It's my pleasure.  John Ross was so upset when I talked to him, I told him I would call you."

 

"Well, again, I thank you.  Sue Ellen, you rememeber my stepdaughter, Fallon Colby, and my stepson, Steven Carrington?"

 

"Of course I do,"  Sue Ellen says.  "It's very nice to see you both again.  And, you haven't met my new husband, Catlin Ewing, this is Krystina's mother, Krystle Carrington, her sister Fallon Colby, and brother, Steven Carrington."

 

"Hello, it's nice to meet all of you,"  Catlin says,

 

"Very nice to meet you, as well," Steven Carrington says.  "You said your last name is Ewing?"

 

Catlin smiles.  "Yes, it's a rather long story, but, I'm a distant cousin of Sue Ellen's first husband, J.R."

 

"Oh, I see."

 

"Y'all excuse me,"  John Ross says when he sees Alex and Bridget walk into the room.  He goes over to meet them.  "Hey,"  he says.

 

 

 

"Is it always gonna be this way with us?" Jimmy asks.

 

"What way is that?"  

 

"This.......awkwardness.  At family gatherings, and occasions such as this.  It's like we don't even know what to say to one another anymore."

 

 

"It's kinda hard to know what to say to the guy you thought was your best friend, who slept with your wife,"  Justin says.

 

"I know.  It's equally hard to know what to say to the best friend, to the UNCLE, that you betrayed."

 

"So why even bother?"  Justin asks.  "Maybe we should just keep our distance."  He walks past Jimmy.

 

"Because I don't want that,"  Jimmy says.  Justin stops and turns back to him.  "Look, I mean, we've talked about this before,"  Jimmy continues.  "Justin I made a huge mistake.  Probably the biggest mistake of my life, with the exception of getting involved with Katelyn Spencer.  Haven't we both paid enough for the mistake that I made?  We nearly killed each other over Amanda.  You spent months in a wheelchair.  I was arrested for something I didn't do, then I was kidnapped and held in a basement for weeks, and I was ra........."

 

"You were what?"  Justin asks.

 

"Nothing.  It's not important.  What is important is the two of us, Justin.  You were not only my best friend, you're my family.  The two of us have the same blood coursing through our veins, and nothing can ever break that bond. Damn it, I miss my best friend.  I miss the person I could tell anything to."

 

"Apparently you couldn't tell me everything."

 

"No, and that was MY mistake.  But I miss what we use to have.  You were more a brother to me than a friend or an uncle."

 

"And how do we get to that after all that happened?"  Justin asks.

 

"I dunno, man.  Maybe we never can.  But I'd at least like the chance to try.  I'll spend the rest of my life trying to earn your trust again."

 

Justin looks away for a moment as he chokes back tears.  Then he looks at Jimmy.  "Truth is, I've missed you, too.  And I guess another truth is, maybe I've spent enough time tryin' to hate you. Maybe I should thank you instead."

 

"Thank me?"  Jimmy asks.

 

"For showin' me the kinda woman Amanda was."

 

Before Jimmy can say another word, he looks over Justin's shoulder and sees the doctor taking care of Krystina going down the hall to the waiting room where the other family members are gathered.  "Hey, there's Krystina's doctor.  Let's go see what she says." 

 

The two make their way down the hall and into the waiting room, where John Ross, Krystle, Steven, Fallon, Sue Ellen, Catlin, Bobby, Ann, Alex, and Bridget have gathered around the doctor.

 

"It was touch and go there for a while, Mr. Ewing,"  the doctor says.  "Krystina lost a lot of blood, and at one point, her blood pressure bottomed out.  But we got it back up and we stopped the bleeding."

 

"Is she gonna be alright?"  John Ross asks.

 

"I expect Krystina to make a full recovery."

 

"And......the baby?"  John Ross asks, holding his breath in fear as he waits for an answer.

 

The doctor smiles.  "The baby is small, and was deprived of oxygen for a very short time, but.......congratulations, Mr. Ewing. You have a beautiful baby girl."

"A......a baby girl?"  John Ross asks.  

 

"A girl,"  says a smiling Sue Ellen.

 

"Disappointed it's not another boy, John Ross?"  Christopher.

 

"What?  Hell no.  I already got two sons.  I couldn't be happier about this.  HOT DAMN, I got me a little daughter!"

 

"Congratulations, John Ross,"  Bobby says.

 

"Thanks, Uncle Bobby.  Doctor, can I see my wife and daughter?"

 

"Yes you can.  Come this way,"  the doctor replies.  She leaves the room, followed by John Ross, as the rest of the family embraces and shares their joy at the latest addition to the Ewing family, and the first one born with both Ewing and Carrington blood.  

 

 

 

Pamela is sitting on the sofa in her living room that night watching television when she hears the front door to the apartment open and close.  "Justin, is that you?"  She calls out.

 

"Yeah, it's me,"  Justin replies, walking into the living room.

 

Pamela stands and walks over to him.  "Hey," she says.  "How's Krystina?  I kept hoping you would call."

 "Krystina gave birth to a little girl,"  Justin says.  "Both she and the baby are doin' fine."

 

"That's wonderful,"  Pamela says with a smile.  

 

"Yeah."

 

"Have you had dinner?"

 

"Yeah, I stopped for dinner,"  Justin replies.  

 

Pamela puts her arms around him.  "Well, I'm glad you're home," she says, kissing him, but Justin immediately pulls out of the kiss.  "Justin, what's wrong?"

Justin was acting so strangely toward her since he had left for his mysterious meeting late in the morning.  

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Southfork....the next morning

 Jimmy is jogging at Southfork the next morning, a sunny but cold winter morning.  He jogs his way up to the house and goes in through the patio door.  Meanwhile, Ann is straightening the pillows on the two sofas in the living room when Jimmy walks in.

 

"Morning," he says.

 

"Mornin'."

 

 

"Have you heard from Krystina and the baby this morning?"

 

"Yes.  They're both doin' well.  John Ross headed straight to the hospital after breakfast."

 

"That's good to hear,"  Jimmy says.  "Ann, can we talk?"

 

Ann pauses for a moment, looks at him, then continues with her housework.  "What about?"

 

"About that envelope you received in the mail yesterday," Jimmy replies.  

 

"There's nothin' to talk about," Ann says.  

 

 

"Come on, Ann.  Whatever was in that envelope scared the hell out of you.  I could see it on your face.  I could see the fear in your eyes.  And you seemed to know what was in that envelope before you even opened it.  Is it because of the letter you were reading when I walked in the other day?"

 

"Jimmy, you don't know what you're talkin' about.  And you really do need to learn how to mind your own damned business,"  says an angry Ann.

 

"Ann what are you so afraid of?"  Jimmy asks.  "I'd  like to help you, if I could."

 

"I don't need help from you or from anybody else."

 

"It's obvious something has got you terrified, and it's also pretty obvious that Uncle Bobby doesn't know.  Does this have anything to do with Katherine Wentworth?  Is that what was in that envelope?"

 

"Jimmy, I think it's time you moved off Southfork."

 

 

seconds, then walks out of the room, leaving Jimmy both stunned and angry at Ann's verbal attack.  He knows something had upset Ann, and whatever it was had to do with the envelope she received in the mail the day before, and the letter he had seen her holding a couple of days before that.  And Jimmy had a feeling that whatever it was, it had to do with Katherine Wentworth!

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Braddock Medical Center....

 Laying in her hospital bed that morning, Krystina is awakened by the sound of the door to her room opening and closing.  She opens her eyes and immediately sees a giant teddy bear holding a heart between his hands standing before her.  "What in the world?"  She asks in wonder.

 

"Special delivery for Mrs. Ewing,"  comes John Ross's voice from behind the giant bear, which is about the same height as he.  

 

Krystina smiles.  "John Ross," she says.

 

He steps out from behind the bear with a big smile.  "How's my favorite girl?"

 

"Are you talking about me,or  our daughter?"

 

"Both,"  John Ross says, leaning the bear against a chair and walking over to the bed.  

 

"I'm very sore.  As for our daughter........she's wonderful."

 

"Oh, I think wonderful is too tame a word.  She's PERFECT.  Just like her mother."

 

A knock sounds at the door.  "Come in,"  Krystina says.  

 

A nurse walks in carrying John Ross and Krystina's newborn baby daughter.  "I thought the two of you could use a visit from this little one," the nurse says, carrying the baby over to Krystina.  "Would you like to hold your daughter, Mrs. Ewing?"

 

"I'd love to."

 

"Wait, are you sure she's up to it?"  John Ross asks.  

 

"John Ross, I'm fine,"  Krystina says as the nurse places the infant in her arms.  "Hello, baby," she says.  "John Ross, isn't she beautiful?"

 

"Most beautiful little newborn I ever seen,"  John Ross replies.  

 

"You know, we have a decision to make,"  says Krystina.  "Like, what are we gonna name her? Since we wanted to wait until she was born and be surprised about her sex, we didn't really talke much about names."

 

"I did a lot of thinkin' about that last night.  Y'know, we did kinda talk about namin' the baby after someone in one of our fam'lies."

 

"Krystle Sue?  After both of her grandmothers?"

 

John Ross shakes his head.  "Nah I'm not real happy with that one, although it is a nice idea, namin' her after both our mothers."

 

"Ellen Krystle?  Krystle Ellen?"

 

"I got an idea,"  John Ross says.  

 

"We're all ears,"  says Krystina.

 

"Well, since we wanna name her after a relative on each side of her fam'ly, what do you think of.......... Eleanor Blake?  After my grand- mother and your father?"

 

"Eleanor Blake,"  Krystina says.  "I like it.  Eleanor Blake Ewing.  Has a really nice ring to it."

 

"We can call her Ellie for short."

 

"I love it,"  Krystina says.  "Eleanor Blake Ewing.  Ellie Ewing for short.  I'm sure your grandmother would be very pleased."

 

"Oh, I know she would."

 

"Only one thing, though."

 

"What's that?"  John Ross asks.

 

"Don't you think Sue Ellen ,might be hurt that we didn't name the baby partly after her?"

 

"Not at all.  I'm sure that she'll be just as pleased as Grandma would be."

 

Krystina and John Ross look down at their beautiful infant daughter, then smile at each other with happiness.

Ewing Records....

 Justin is sitting at his desk at Ewing Records later that day, unable to concentrate on the work on the desk before him, and unable to get his conversation with Tripp McKay from the previous day off his mind.  The more he thinks about the threat Tripp had made to him, the angrier he became.  So angry that he was unconsciously clinching his fits.  Justin is startled out of his thoughts by a knock at his door.  "Come in," he says.  

 

Pamela enters the office.  "Hi.  Can we talk?"

 

 

 

"Umm, I'm kinda busy right now," Justin says.

 

"Busy?  Doesn't look to me like you're doing anything."

 

"Well, I am.  So it'll have to wait."

"Justin, what's going on with you?"  Pamela asks.

 

"Goin' on?  Nothin' goin' on with me."

 

"Well, something must be.  You've been acting really strange, ever since yesterday.  Ever since you rushed out of here for that meeting you said you had.  Who was the meeting with?"

 

"Really, Pamela, have we come to THAT?"  Justin asks, standing to his feet.  He walks over to his bar and pours himself a drink.

 

"Come to what?"  Asks Pamela.

 

"You askin' me where I've been, and who I was with.  Like you don't trust me."

 

"I do trust you.  It's just that, the way you're acting........"

 "The way I'm actin'?"  Justin asks.  "You have a problem with the way I'm actin', Pamela?"

 

"The way you're acting right now, yes, I do.  Justin, if something is wrong, just tell me."

 

"What's wrong is the way you're interrogatin' me right now.  Like you don't trust me or somethin'. "

 

"I only asked you about that meeting you had yesterday,"  Pamela says.  "You were fine when you left here, and then you came back, and before we could even talk, Christopher told you about Krystina, and you rushed out of here to go to the hospital."

 

"And you have a problem with THAT?"  Justin asks.

 

"NO, of course not!"

 

"Krystina is my brother's wife, Pamela.  It was a family crisis that could've turned into a family tragedy, so of course I wanted to be there."

 

"As you should.  But you didn't even want me to come with you."

 

"You know how my fam'ly feels about you."

 

"Is that what this is all about?"  Pamela asks.  "Did someone in your family say something about me?  Is that why you're acting this way?"

 

"No.  No one said anything to me."

 

"Then where is this coming from?  This......coldness?"

 

"I just been thinkin',"  Justin says, turning his back to her.  "Maybe everyone was right.  Maybe the Barnes and the Ewings just don't mix."

 

"Justin, you can't mean that,"  Pamela says.  

 

He turns back to her.  "I'm sorry, Pamela, but I do mean it.  I think it's time I moved back to my ranch full time."

 

"You're.......you're breaking up with me?"  Pamela asks.  "Justin, WHY?"

 "It's like I said.  I'm a Ewing, you're a Barnes.  Our two fam'lies have never mixed well.  No reason to believe we would be any different."

 

"But  we ARE different," Pamela says.   "Justin, I don't know where this is coming from.  Something had to have happened to make you act this way.  Please, tell me.  If I did something wrong......"

 

"You didn't,"  Justin says.  "You didn't do anything wrong.  It's just best this way."

 

"Best for WHO?"  

 

"Best for everyone.  For you, for me, for your kids.  Pamela, I'm sorry.  But it has to be this way."

 

"That's it, then?"  Pamela asks.  "After all we've meant to one another, it's over, just like that?  You say this is best for everyone, but I don't even get a vote in this?  Justin, I love you.  And I know that you love me.  I KNOW you do."

 

Justin turns away from her and takes a sip of his drink.

 

"Justin, you look me in the eye and tell me that you don't love me,"  Pamela says.

 

He remains silent, and can't bring himself to look Pamela in the face.  

 

"Justin, tell me you don't love me anymore."

 

Finally, he turns to her.  "I can't. I do love you.  Love has never been an issue with us."

 

"I didn't realize we had any issues at all,"  Pamela says in tears.  "Justin, if I've done anything wrong, please tell me.  If you aren't happy with me, then tell me.  Whatever it is, we can work on it, TOGETHER.  But don't throw away what we have."

 

"Pamela, I'm sorry.  But this just itn't gonna work.  It's over.  I'll come by and pick up my things this afternoon.  And, as for Ewing Records, you own part of this comp'ny, and, you'll always have a place here."

 

Pamela cries as she shakes her head.  "I.......I don't think I can continue working here now.  I can't work with you after this.  Especially since I don't know why you're doing this.  Why you're just throwing away everything we have." In tears, Pamela turns and runs out of the office.

 

"Pamela!"  Justin calls after her, but she ignores his call.  After she's gone, Justin walks over to his desk, takes a seat, and begins to cry himself.

Ewing Oil....a few minutes later....

 Pamela steps off the elevator at Ewing Oil a few minutes later and angrily marches toward John Ross's office.  Jill comes out of her own office and sees Pamela and approaches her.  

 

"Well, well, Pamela,"  Jill says.  "What on earth brings you down to our neck of the woods?  Missing your old office?"

 

Pamela gives her an icy look.  "Don't start with me, Jill, I'm NOT in the mood."

 

 

"I have no idea what you're babbling about,"  Jill says.  "But no, I haven't spoken to Justin about you at all, but if he HAS come to his senses and dumped you, then I couldn't be happier about it."

 

Sue Ellen walks over to the two younger women.  "What's going on here?"

 

"Is John Ross here?"  Pamela asks.

 

"Of course he isn't,"  replies Sue Ellen.  "I'm sure you've heard by now that Krystina gave birth to a little girl yesterday.  John Ross is with his wife and child at the hospital.  Why do you want to see John Ross?"

 

"Because I need some answers."

 

"What kind of answers could you possibly need from my son?"  Sue Ellen asks.

 

"That's none of your business,"  Pamela says, turning to leave.

 

"If it involved my son......it IS my business,"  Sue Ellen says, grabbing Pamela's arm.  

 

"Let go of my arm."

 

"Not until you tell me why it's so important that you see John Ross."

 

Pamela looks at her former mother-in-law.  "John Ross, or someone, couldn't stand the thought of Justin and I being happy together, so they decided to ruin that."  She turns her gaze on Jill.  "I'm gonna find out who that person is, and if was you, Jill, or John Ross..........then one of you is going to be very, VERY sorry you didn't mind your own business."  

 

Sue Ellen releases her grip on Pamela's arm, and Pamela quickly storms away.  "What on earth was that all about?"  Sue Ellen asks.

 

"I'm not sure, but I hope it means that Justin has finally given her the boot."

The lobby downstairs, a few minutes later....

Stepping off the elevator in the lobby downstairs, Pamela takes out her cell phone and dials John Ross's number.

Braddock Medical Center....  

 Walking down a hallway at Braddock Medical Center, John Ross takes his vibrating cell phone from his pocket and

 looks at it, then answers the call.  "Pamela, what the hell do you want?"

 

 Jimmy is packing his things at the cottage at Southfork.  As he carries a box full of his belongings from the cottage to his truck parked outside, Lucas is walking back to the house from the stables.  Seeing Jimmy loading his truck with his things, a curious Lucas walks over to him.  

 

 

"Jimmy, what's goin' on?"  Lucas asks.  "You goin' somewhere?"

 

"What's it look like?  I'm packin' up.  Movin' out."

 

"You're moving off Southfork?  Why?"

"Ann asked you move off Southfork?  But why?"

 

"When you find that out, let me know,"  Jimmy says, placing a box of his stuff in the back of his truck.

 

"That makes no sense, Jimmy.  Why would Ann just up and  ask you to leave? That's not like her.  Did something happened between  the two of you?"

 

"Ann has been acting weird for months. Ever since since that stuff happened with Katherine Wentworth and Katelyn Spencer last summer.  And the last couple of days, she's been acting even more strangely.  The two of us have disagreed about Katherine and Katelyn on more than one occasion.  I want those two psychopaths caught and punished for what they did to me and to Ann, but for some reason, Ann doesn't want them caught."

 

"Well, that sure doesn't make any sense,"  Lucas says.

 

"Nothing your stepmother has done lately makes any sense."

 

"Jimmy, look, don't do this.  Not yet.  Let me talk to Ann.  And if that doesn't work, I'll talk to my father."

 

"Lucas, thank you, but no,"  says Jimmy.  "I really don't wanna bother Uncle Bobby with this.  Besides, I'm not gonna stay where I'm not welcome."

 

"Jimmy, that's crazy.  You ARE welcome here.  You're part of this family."

 

"I appreciate that, cousin.  But, I've been staying here at Southfork for a while now.  Basically hiding from the world and from what happened to me last summer.  I guess it's time I got back out in the world and stood on my own two feet again."

 

"Where are you gonna go?"  Lucas asks.  

 

"A hotel tonight, and then tomorrow, I'll start looking for a place.  Well, I think I've got everything.  If not, I'll come back for the  rest."

 

"Jimmy, I wish you wouldn't do this.  Maybe Ann was just angry about something, and....."

 

"No.  She made it very clear that she wanted me off Southfork.  Lucas, thank you.  For everything.  For bein' a good cousin."

 

"No problem, bro,"  Lucas says, shaking Jimmy's hand.  "You take care of yourself, and if you need anything, you have my number."

 

"Yeah.  Thanks.  I'll see ya, man."  Jimmy gets into his truck and drives away.  

 

Lucas watches Jimmy as he drives away, then he begins walking toward the house.  Meanwhile, Ann is on the patio 

 when she sees Jimmy's truck drive by the house.  A feeling of sadness comes over Ann as she regrets the way she had asked Jimmy to leave, but at the same time, she knows she can't risk Jimmy's constant meddling for fear that he would find out the truth about the two letters she had received.  Ann starts back to the house.

 

"Ann,"  she hears Lucas calling from behind her.  

 

Ann turns around to face her stepson as Lucas approaches her.  

 

"Ann, what's going on?  Jimmy just packed up his stuff and moved off the ranch."

 

"Yes, I know."

 

"He said you told him to leave."

 

"That's right, I did,"  Ann says.

 

"Why?  Did Jimmy do something?"  Lucas asks.

 

"I don't wanna talk about it,"  Ann says.  "It was time Jimmy left, that's all.  

 

"Ann, what's going on with you?  You're not acting at all like yourself."

 

"I'm just sick and tired of everybody always askin' what's wrong with me, or what's goin' on with me.  NOTHING is goin' on with me, Lucas.  I just went through pure hell a few months ago, and I am tryin' my level best to get past that and move on with my life, but how can I if people keep bringin' up to me what happened with Katherine Wentworth and that crazy daughter of hers?  Everybody just needs to accept the fact that Katherine is gone, and just let go of this obsession with tryin' to find her, because bringin' that woman back here wouldn't do anybody any good."  Without another word to him, Ann turns and walks to the house.  

 

A puzzled Lucas watches his stepmother as Ann goes into the house.  "I never said a word about Katherine Wentworth,"  he says to himself, sure that Jimmy was right and something really serious was weighing on Ann's mind.  

 John Ross's car pulls up to Southfork and comes to a stop.  Getting out of the car, he walks up to the patio where Lucas is standing.  

 

"Well, John Ross,"  Lucas says.  "How are Krystina and your new daughter?"

 

"My wife and child are just fine."

 

"That's good.  Listen, John Ross, you and I haven't always gotten along or seen eye to eye on most things, but, I just wanna congratulate you on the birth of your little girl.  I'm happy for you and Krystina."

 

"I appreciate that, Lucas,"  John Ross says.  At that moment, Pamela's car drives up and comes to a stop behind John Ross's.  

 

"What in the world is Pamela doing here?"  Lucas asks.

 

"I guess we're about to find out,"  John Ross replies, he and Lucas watching as Pamela gets out of her car and walks over to them. 

 

John Ross meets her half way.  "Alright, Pamela, what are you doin' here, and what'd you wanna see me about?  Is it about Justin?  Is he alright?"

 

"Why, John Ross?"  Pamela asks.  "Just tell me why you did it.  Was the thought of me being happy with your brother so terrible for you to bear, that you had to break us up?"

 Dylan is laying in his bed at the hospital late in the afternoon, staring out the window at the gray sky, the dreariness of the day matching his own mood.  His hand begins to tremble as an almost overpowering craving for a drink comes over him.  After a few moments looking out the window, Dylan turns his gaze onto the ceiling.  All he

can think about is how much he wants a drink.  Thinking back in time, Dylan struggles to remember those missing moments from the last few weeks.  How he had got beaten up and robbed.  But his thoughts quickly turn back again to how much he wants a drink.  Dylan's thoughts are interrupted by a knock at his door.  Ray, Donna, and Dylan walk into the room.  

 

"Hey, bud,"  Ray says.

 

"Hi, Ray."

 

"How're you feeling?"  Donna asks, walking over to Dylan's bedside.

 

"Still kinda sore and weak."

 

"That's to be expected for a while,"  says Ray.

 

"Umm, we talked to Mitch, and he said that you're gonna be released from the hospital tomorrow," Donna says.  

 

"Good.  I can't wait to get outta this place and get back home."

 

Ray, Donna, and Conner all exchange looks between them.  A few seconds of awkward silence follows.  "Yeah, well, uh, Dylan, that's somethin' we need to talk about," Ray says.  "Y'see, the things, when you're released from the hospital, you won't be comin' home.  At least not for a while."

 

Dylan looks at him.  "What?"  The confused young man asks.  "What do you mean?  You......you don't want me home?"

 

"Oh, sweetheart, of COURSE we do,"  Donna says, taking Dylan's hand.  "More than anything.  But we want you home well, and whole, and happy.  And, the only way that's going to happen is if you get some help for your problem."

 

"My.......my problem?  I don't have.......I don't have a problem.  What problem?"

 

"Your drinking, Dylan,"  Conner says.  

 

"Drinking?"

 

"Yes, Dylan,"  replies Donna.  "Sweety, you have a problem, and unless we fix it, it's only gonna get worse."

 

"I don't have any problem,"  Dylan says.

 

"Yes, Dylan, you do,"  Conner says.  "You have a big problem, and it's gotten out of hand."

 

Dylan looks at his brother.  "If I have a problem, then it's YOU.  For months, you've been downing me.  Now you're just trying to get rid of me."

 

"Dylan, no one is trying to get rid of you,"  says Donna.  "Honey, we all love you.  Your brother loves you.  All any of us want is for you to get better."

 

Dylan looks at her in tears.  "So what happens to me?  I have to go back to my mother's house?"

 

"No, Dylan,"  Ray says.  "When you leave the hospital, you'll be goin' to an alcohol and drug rehab center in Fort Worth.  It's a real nice place.  Me, and Donna and Conner, we took a drive over there today to check the place out."

 

"You had this all planned?"  Dylan asks.

 

"Mitch.......Dr. Cooper.........found this place for us a few days ago,"  Donna says.  "It's very highly recommended."

 

"It's one of the best treatment facilities in the state,"  says Ray.

 

"Treatment?"  Asks Dylan.  "I don't need any treatment.  You think I have a drinking problem?"

 

"Dylan, we KNOW you have a drinking problem,"  says Conner.  "It's been going on for a long time now."

  With great effort, Dylan sits up in bed.  "Ray, Donna, don't listen to him.  I don't know why my own brother is telling these lies about me.  I DON'T have a drinking problem.  Yeah, I had a few drinks a couple times, but it's not a problem.  I can stop any time.  Guys, please!  I'll be fine.  Just let me come home and I promise, I'll never touch another drop of alcohol.  I SWEAR!"  

 

"We can't let you come back home,"  says Donna.  "Not now."

 

Dylan looks at Conner.  "It's all HIS fault," he says.  "He wants to get rid of me.  He wants me out of the house."

 

"Dylan, would you listen to yourself?"  Conner asks.  "You're blaming ME for all your problems."

 

"Because this is your fault.  Why are you doing this to me?  Why do you wanna get rid of me?"

 

"I don't wanna get rid of you.  I want my brother back, Dylan.  I want you back the way you were before you started drinking.  Before you let alcohol take control of your life.  Don't you see what you're doing to yourself?  Dylan, you're letting alcohol ruin your life."

 

"The only thing ruining my life is YOU."

 

"Dylan...."

 

"Get out.  Just get out!"  Dylan says to his brother.  "Ray, Donna, PLEASE!  Please don't listen to him.  I don't have a problem.  Please let me come home."

 

"Dylan, I'm afraid we can't do that,"  Ray says.  "We don't like this anymore'n you do, but we have no choice.  The decision's been made.  Tomorrow mornin', when you leave the hospital, you'll be goin' to the Barbara Hagman Davis Center in Fort Worth for at least six weeks.  Or until you have this addiction under control."

 

Dylan breaks down in tears.  "Get out," he says, laying back down on the bed and turning away from them.  "All of you just get out and leave me alone."

 

"Dylan,"  Conner says,

 

"I said get out."  

 

"Come on,"  Donna says.  "I think we'd all better go.  Dylan, we all love you.  That's the only reason we're doing this. We'll be back tomorrow morning to pick you up."   She, Ray, and Conner leave.

 

Down the hall at the nurse's station, Mitch sees the three come out of Dylan's room.  He walks over to meet them.  "Ray, Donna, is everything alright?"

 

"We told Dylan about the Hagman Center."

 

"I'm guessing he didn't take it very well,"  Mitch says.  

 

"He didn't,"  says Conner.  "My own brother hates me."

 

"Conner, he doesn't hate you,"  Mitch says.  "You have to remember, that's not Dylan talking.  It's the disease.  Alcoholism is a very ugly disease and it turns a person we love into someone we don't even know.  Into someone they THEMSELVES don't even know.  I've already made the arrangements for the Hagman Center.  They'll be expecting Dylan to arrive at around noon tomorrow."

 

"Thank you, Mitch,"  Donna says.  

 

"Listen, if there's anything at all I can do, please let me know."

 

"We appreciate that, Mitch,"  says Ray.

 

"I have to make my rounds.  I'll check in on Dylan in a little while,"  Mitch says, then walks away.  

 

"Conner, are you alright?"  Donna asks.

 

"I'll be fine.  I just need some time alone,"  Conner says and leaves them.

 

Ray puts his arms around a worried Donna and embraces her as they watch Conner walk away from them down the hall.  

A bar in Dallas....that evening....

 

"What happened, John Ross, is that you finally got your way,"  Justin replies.  "You  and everybody else who didn't want me and Pamela together have finally gotten your way.  Our relationship is over.  So you can go on home and gloat, pat yourself on the back, whatever you wanna do."

 

John Ross sighs.  "Little brother, I'm not gonna pretend I'm all tore up that you and Pamela broke up.  Frankly, I think you made a wise choice.  But none of this makes any sense.  Pamela said that everything was fine between you yesterday before you came to the hospital.  That's why she thought I was the one behind this breakup.  Guess she thought I influenced you or somethin'.  But we both know that didn't happen.  So what did?"

 

"Does it really matter?"  Justin asks.  "Point is, it's over between me and Pamela.  Now you and Jill and Tripp McKay can all be happy."

 

"McKay?  Wait, hold on just a damned minute.  Did McKay have somethin' to do with this?"

 

Justin ignores John Ross's question, and continues to sip on his beer.  

 

"Is that what happened?"  

 

"John Ross, just.......go away and leave me alone and let me enjoy my beer."

 

"What'd McKay do, Justin?"  John Ross asks.

 

"You got what you wanted, John Ross.  So why do you even care?"

 

"Because you're my brother.  And if McKay has messed with you, then I wanna know about it.  Now a while back, you came to me and asked me to help you get McKay out of the picture.  And the other day, while Pamela went to meet McKay, you again told me you wanted to neutralize him.  Then all of a sudden, you break things off with Pamela after tellin' me how much you loved her and nothin' was ever gonna break y'all up.  This has Tripp McKay written all over it.  Or was it Cliff Barnes or that bastard son of his?"

 

"It's just that McKay could make things very ugly for Pamela,"  says Justin.  "He's already threatened her with suing for custody of Hunter if she didn't break up with me, and......."  he pauses.

 

"And what?"  John Ross asks.

 

Justin hesitates a moment before answering.  "And, he threatened a very ugly custody battle.  Said he would drag Pamela and me, and our whole family through the mud.  Basically he threatened to totally ruin Pamela's reputation."

 

"He made that threat to you?"

 

"Yes."

 

"And, you ended your relationship with Pamela to protect her?"  John Ross asks.

 

Justin looks at his brother.  "I love her, John Ross.  And I love her kids.  I won't let them be put through that because of me."

 

John Ross puts his hand on Justin's shoulder.  "I told you the other day, and now I'm gonna tell you again.  You leave Tripp McKay to me.  I'll take care of him, and I'll make damn sure McKay never bothers you, or any other member of my fam'ly again.  And that, little brother, is a promise."

Braddock Medical Center....the next morning....

 Sue Ellen and Krystle are visiting with Krystina at the hospital the next morning when a knock sounds at the door. "Come in,"  Krystle says.

 

Steven and Fallon walk into the room, Steven carrying a bouquet of flowers.  "Special delivery for Krystina Ewing," he says.

 

"Steven, Fallon, come in,"  says Krystina, sitting up in bed.

 

"How do you feel, sweetheart?"  Fallon asks, giving her sister a hug.

 

"I feel fine.  Still in a little pain, but this little pump here beside my bed helps."

 

"And the doctor said she can go home later today,"  says Krystle.

 

"That's great,"  Steven says.  "Mrs. Ewing, how are you?"

 

"I'm wonderful,"  Sue Ellen replies.  "Seeing my new little granddaughter just brightens up everything."

 

"She sure does,"  Krystle agrees.  "And, wait until you hear what Krystina and  John Ross have decided to name her."

 

"Please, tell us,"  says Fallon.

 

Krystina looks at her family.  "John Ross and I are gonna name our daughter........Eleanor Blake.  After John Ross's grandmother, and after Daddy."

 Jimmy steps off the elevator at the offices of Ewing Records.  Walking into the reception area, he approaches the  

receptionist's desk.  "Excuse me," he says.

 

"Yes, may I help you?"  Asks Kim, the young receptionist.

 

"I need to see Justin Ewing.  Is he here?"

 

"One moment.  I'll let Mr. Ewing know that you're here.  What's your name, please?"

 

"Jimmy?"  Justin says as he comes out of his office.  He walks over to them.  

 

"Hey,"  says Jimmy.

 

"What are you doin' here?"  

 

"Well, I came by to see your new offices, and I was hoping maybe we could talk."

 

"Sure, come on into my office,"  says Justin.  "Kim, hold all my calls, will you?"

 

"Of course, Mr. Ewing."

 

"Oh, and, has Pamela come in yet?"

 

"No, sir, she hasn't."

 

"Well, if she does happen to come in, or call, please let me know, huh?"

 

"Yes, sir,"  Kim says.  

 

Justin nods, then goes into his office, followed by Jimmy.  Justin closes the door, then walks to his bar.  "Have a drink?"

 

"Little early in the day for me,"  Jimmy replies.

 

"Fine.  Think I'll have one anyway,"  Justin says, proceeding to pour himself a glass of bourbon.  "Okay, so you wanted to talk."

 

"Is this a bad time?"  Jimmy asks.

 

"As good a time as any.  What's up?"

 

"Well, I know that you've been living with Pamela for a while now, and I was just wondering if maybe I could stay at your ranch for a few days.  I stayed at a hotel last night, but, I hated it.  And it'd only be for a few days like I said, until I find a place of my own."

 

"I thought you were still livin' at the cottage at Southfork,"  Justin says. 

 

"I moved off Southfork yesterday."

 

"Why?  Somethin' happen?"

 

"Ann and I had a little disagreement, that's all.  I figured it was better if I left."

 

"Well, I hate to disappoint ya, Jimmy, but, I moved out of Pamela's apartment, and I'm livin' at my ranch again,"  says Justin.

 

"When did that happen?"  

 

"Yesterday.  I stayed at the ranch last night."

 

"I'm sorry.  So, you and Pamela broke up?"  Jimmy asks.

 

"Yes we did."

 

"I'm real sorry to hear that.  Well, I'm sorry.  It's okay, I'll just stay at the hotel for a few days until I find a place.  Thanks, anyway."  Jimmy starts to leave.

 

"Wait,"  Justin says.  Jimmy stops and turns to him.  "You can stay at the ranch."

 

"But, you just said you had moved back there."

 

"Yes, I have.  But the place is plenty big enough.  And it's pretty lonely out there in that big house, on that ranch, all by myself.  So you're welcome to stay there until you find a place of your own."

 

"Justin, thank you.  That really means a lot to me, after everything that's happened between us."

 

"I've done a lot of thinkin' about our conversation at the hospital the other day.  We never got to finish it.  I told you that I missed you, too, and I should thank you for showin' me what kind woman Amanda is.  Truth is, Jimmy, I'm sick and tired of carryin' around this anger.  I dunno if we'll ever be able to completely get past what happened, but, at least we can try."

 

"I'd like that, Justin."

 

Justin reaches into his pocket and pulls out a set of keys on a ring, one of which he takes off.  "Here's a key to the house.  You can move your stuff in any time."

 

"Thanks,"  Jimmy says, taking the key.  "You don't know how much this means to me."

 

"Just one condition I have."

 

"Sure.  What's that?"  Jimmy asks.

 

"That you do the cookin'.   I really don't wanna go back to eatin' my own cookin'."

 

Jimmy laughs.  "Yeah, well, that makes two of us.  I've tasted your cooking, and  I don't really wanna have to eat it, either."

 

Justin smiles for the first time since his breakup with Pamela.  "Go on, get outta here and let me get back to work.  I'll see ya tonight."

 

"You bet,"  Jimmy says.  He smiles, then leaves.

 

Justin finishes off his drink, then walks to his desk and takes a seat.  He picks up a framed photo of Pamela from the desk and looks at it.  "I'm so sorry, Pamela," he says.  "I did what I had to do.  But I promise you, we WILL be together again.  Because if John Ross doesn't take down Tripp McKay.......then I will."

Barbara Davis Hagman Center, Fort Worth....

 Ray's truck pulls up in front of the Barbara Davis Hagman Center for Alcohol and Drug addiction in Fort Worth early in the afternoon.  Ray, Donna, Conner, and Dylan all remain still and silent for several seconds after arriving.  "Well, here we are,"  Ray finally says.  

 

"Dylan, this is for your own,"  says Donna.  "When you come back home, you will be healthy again."

 

Without saying a word, an angry Dylan grabs his bag and exits the truck.  After a few seconds, Conner follows him, then Ray and Donna.  The four walk into the front lobby of the center, where a young man comes out to greet them. 

"Well, Mr. and Mrs. Krebbs, welcome,"  the young man says.  

 

"Hello,"  says Donna.

 

"And this must be Dylan."

 

"Yes, this is Dylan Baxter, and his brother, Conner Ewing."

 

"Dylan, Conner, very nice to meet both of you.  My name is Josh, and I'm one of the counselors here at the Barbara Davis Hagman Center, and Dylan, you will be in my group."

 

"Group?"  Conner asks.

 

"Yes, group therapy,"  Josh replies.  "Our treatment here consists of group three days a week for six weeks, and the other two days Dylan and I will have a little one on one time in individual therapy, where he and I just sit and talk in my office.  And times when we aren't doing therapy, our guests here work in the garden, the kitchen, and do various other projects and activities around the center and the grounds."

 

"Well, that sounds real nice,"  Ray says.

 

"Guests?"  Dylan asks.  "Why don't you call us what we are.......prisoners."

 

Josh smiles.  "Dylan you're NOT a prisoner here."

 

 "Oh really?"  Dylan asks.  "I've been committed to this place against my will.  I'm not gonna be allowed to leave here until you all decide that I can.  What would you call that?"

 

"Dylan, Josh and the rest of the staff at this center are only here to help you,"  says Donna.  "And that's the only reason we're doing this.  Because we love you and wanna help you."

 

"Sure,"  Dylan says, disbelieving.

 

"Dylan, it's true,"  Conner says, near tears.   "You're my brother, and I love you.  Dylan, you have to believe that.  If there was any other way, I wouldn't leave you here.  But you have GOT to get help for this addiction or it's gonna end up killing you, and I am NOT ready to lose my brother.  I know that Ray and Donna are our family.  But you are the only close family I have.  The only tie I have to our father."

 

"If you really love me the way you say you do, then you won't leave me here in this place,"  Dylan says.  "Conner, please.  You're my brother.  I'll do anything.  Anything at all you say.  I will never touch another drop of alcohol as long as I live.  I swear. Just please don't leave me here."

 

"I'm sorry, Dylan.  But I have no choice. It's only for a little while, a couple months."

 

"Well, Dylan, why don't we get you to your room and get you settled?"  Josh asks.  

 

"Mind if we come along?"  Ray asks.

 

"Actually, Mr. Krebbs, it's always better if the family says their goodbyes here, instead.  It makes it easier on them and our guest.  You'll be able to visit Dylan a week from this Saturday."

 

Ray nods.  Donna walks over to Dylan and puts her hands on each side of his face.  "Dylan," she says, fighting back tears.  "We love you.  You do what Josh and the others here say, and get better so you can come home to us."  Donna hugs the young man.  

 

"Dylan, we'll see ya next Saturday,"  Ray says.  "Donna, Conner, let's go."

 

 "Ray, Donna, please.........don't leave me here.  Please?"  Dylan begs.  "I'll do anything.  Please......"

 

"I'm sorry, Dylan,"  Donna says, the three turning and leaving. 

 

As he walks out of the building with Ray and Donna, Conner turns and looks back at Dylan, who is still standing in the middle of the lobby watching in tears as his family leaves.  Conner pauses and looks at him for a few seconds, his own heart breaking in two at the thought of leaving his brother here, but he also knows that without the help he needs, Dylan will end up dying or possibly getting into another accident, maybe killing someone next time.

 

"Conner, let's go,"  Donna tells him.  

 

As Conner watches, Dylan turns and follows Josh out of the lobby, then he walks out of the building with Ray and Donna.  Outside, Dylan breaks down in tears.  "I can't," he says.  "I can't leave him here.  Did you see how he sad and pitiful he looked?  We have to go get him."

 

"Conner, you know we can't,"  Donna says, putting her arms around him.  "Listen to me.  I know you love your  brother.  We all do.  That's why we have to do this."  

 

"Come on,"  says Ray.  "Sooner we get out of here, the easier it'll be."

 

"Easy?"  Conner asks.  "This will never be easy."  Still in tears, Conner walks away from Ray and Donna, heading to Ray's truck and gets in.  Ray and Donna look at each other, realizing that they had no choice but to leave Dylan, but at the same time, their hearts also hurting over the decision.  After a moment, the two walk over and get into Ray's truck.  As they begin to drive away from the center, Conner looks out the window, silently staring at the place....