EPISODE 170 - Dirty Dealings

 On a warm spring afternoon at Southfork, Alex, Bridget, Ashley, and Shawn are swimming.  As Bridget lays on a float in the middle of the pool, a mischievous Alex jumps in, causing such a splash that the girl is knocked off her float.  While the four teenagers enjoy their pool time, Ann walks onto the upstairs balcony and looks down at them, smiling as she watches the youth splashing around in the water below.  Bobby walks onto the balcony and comes up behind his wife.  "Well, looks like they're all havin' a good time,"  he says.

"Yes they are."

Bobby smiles.  "It sure is good to see Southfork filled with young people and children again.  And laughter.  For so long this ranch and this house were real empty.  At one time it was just me and Christopher livin' here."

"And just you and me for a while, too,"  Ann says.  "Do you ever miss the days when it was just us?"

"Sometimes.  But then I look at how the family has grown and filled Southfork, and I'm happy to see it.  I know Mama and Daddy would be real pleased to see so many of their grandchildren and great-grandchildren livin' here on this ranch, carryin' on the family legacy and traditions."  Bobby looks at his watch and smiles.  "Well, enough of this sentimentality, I have to get back to the office.  I have a meeting this afternoon that I can't be late for.  I'll see ya this evening, honey." 

"Bye,"  Ann says as Bobby kisses her.  "I'm glad ya came home for lunch.  You should do it more often."

"I might just do that,"  Bobby says, then leaves by going down the steps leading from the balcony to the porch below.  "I'll see you kids later,"  he says to the group of teens in the pool.  Ann watches her husband from the balcony as he walks to his car and gets in, then drives away from Southfork.  

Meanwhile, down at the pool, while Alex and Bridget are in one corner of the pool kissing, Shawn and Ashley engage in a race across the pool.  Shawn wins the race, then climbs out of the pool, grabbing a towel.  "See?"  He says to Ashley.  "Told ya you didn't have a chance."

"Well, you ARE bigger and stronger than me,"  Ashley says, looking up at him.  

"Gimme your hand, I'll pull you out,"  Shawn says.  Ashley grabs his hand, then pulls an unsuspecting Shawn back into the pool.  On the other side of the pool. Alex and Bridget laugh.  "Sore loser!"  Shawn jokes, coming up out of the water.  

At that moment, Ann and Maria come onto the patio, each of the women carrying a tray.  "Kids, lunch is ready,"  Ann says to them.

"Come on, I'm starved,"  Alex says.

"You're ALWAYS starved,"  Bridget says as the two climb out of the pool.  

Ashley and Shawn also climb out of the pool, Shawn immediately grabbing a towel to dry his face and hair.  "Ah, that felt great,"  he says, but Ashley seems to not hear him.  She is looking at Alex and Bridget as they walk over to the table.  "Hey, Ashley?"  Shawn says.

"Huh?  What?"  

"Hey, what's wrong?"  Shawn asks.  "You suddenly look like you lost your best friend."

"Yeah, actually I am gonna be in town,"  Ashley says.  "We're not going back to Boston until Sunday."

Shawn looks at the girl and smiles.  "Well, that's the best news I've heard in a long time.  So, will you be my date for prom this Saturday?"

"What about Allison?"  Bridget asks.  "What are you gonna tell her?"

"Oh.......I'll think of somethin',"  Shawn replies, still looking at Ashley with a smile.  "I think she'd rather go with Will Bradley, anyway."

Ashley and Alex look at each other in awkward silence.

Ewing Oil....

"Well, fellas, what do you think of our proposal?"  John Ross asks, as he and Christopher meet in John Ross's office with members of the new Cartel, consisting of Peter Ellis, Brandon Harwood, and Ben Chambers.  "Can we do business together?"

"I really like what you're proposin', John Ross,"  Peter Ellis says.  

"Yeah, so do I,"  says Ben Chambers in a thick Texas accent.  "But ya know, ol' Cliff Barnes and Brad Stone aren't gonna be too happy about us doin' business with Ewing Oil and excludin' them."

"Ah, to hell with Barnes and Stone,"  Peter says.  "I never did care for Cliff Barnes."

"Yeah, neither did I,"  says Ben Chambers.  "Brad Stone, either.  I'd much rather Ewing Oil be a part of the Cartel than those two."

"Then we can count on you guys?"  Christopher asks.

"We hadn't heard from the newest member of the Cartel yet," Ben says.  "What do you think, Brandon?"

"Well, being the new guy here, I prefer not to say.  I did meet John Ross at lunch one day with my mother, and I liked him.  Barnes and Stone, I don't know, so I really can't make a sound judgement on them."

"Well, you hadn't missed much,"  Peter says as John Ross's intercom buzzes.

"Yes, Sally?"  

"John Ross, Jason and Jordan Lee III are here."

"Thank ya, darlin', send those boys in."

"Jason and Jordan Lee III?"  Christopher asks.

"Yeah,"  replies John Ross.  "You remember Jordan Lee, don't you?"

"Vaguely."

"Well, these are his grandsons and they have started up their own new company, Lee Energies."

"Lee Energies?"  Peter Ellis asks.  "They been doin' a lot with alternative energies, right?  Drillin' for natural gas and methane up in Canada and Alaska."

"Yes, sir,"  John Ross says as the two young men walk into the office.  "Jason, welcome,"  John Ross says, shaking hands with one of the men.  

"John Ross, good to see you again,"  Jason Lee says.  "You haven't met my nephew, Jordan."

"Jordan, good to meet you.  This is my cousin Christopher Ewing, and this is Peter Ellis, Ben Chambers, and Brandon Harwood, who's also new to the Cartel."

"Gentlemen,"  Jason says.

"You two are awful young to be runnin' an oil comp'ny,"  Peter Ellis says.

 Jason Lee smiles.  "Don't let our youthful appearance fool you, Mr. Ellis," he says.  "I'm 28-years-old, and my nephew here is 24, and we're both actually older than my granddaddy was when he started the first Lee Oil back in the late 30s."

"Well, I knew ya granddaddy, and if you boys are anything like he was, I'm sure you'll both do real good in this business."

"Thank you,"  Jordan says.  

Bobby walks into the office at that moment.  "I'm sorry I'm late, fellas, there was an accident on the road into town and traffic was backed up.  Did I miss anything?"

"Oh, nothin' important, Bobby,"  Peter says.  "Real good to see ya."

"You too, Peter,"  Bobby says, shaking hands with the man.  "Been a long time. How ya been?"

"Been fine.  How 'bout you?  Christopher was just tellin' me that you're gonnna be a granddaddy again."

Bobby smiles.  "Yes, I am.  Say, we're gonna have to have you Elizabeth out to Southfork for dinner real soon."

"I'd love to, and I'm sure Liz would, too."

"Dad, these are the other members of the Cartel,"  Christopher says.  "This is Ben Chambers."

"Mr. Ewing,"  Ben says, shaking Bobby's hands.

"Chambers."

"Brandon Harwood,"  Christopher says.

"Brandon Harwood?  You're Holly's son, aren't you?"

"Yes, sir, Mr. Ewing, I am.  I can't tell you what a pleasure it is to meet you.  I've heard a lot about you over the years from my mother."

"Well, it's nice to meet you, too,"  Bobby says.

"And, last but not least, Jason and Jordan Lee,"  John Ross says.

Bobby turns and looks at the two.  "Jordan Lee?"

"Yes, Jordan Lee III, Mr. Ewing,"  Jordan says.

"My grandfather was Jordan Lee, who I believe you knew very well,"  says Jason.  "And Jordan, here, is my nephew."

"Well, it's very nice to need you boys, I had no idea that the Lee family was back in the oil business."

"Well, Jordan and I just started Lee Energies about a year ago,"  Jason says.  "We're the last of the family since my older brother, Jordan's father, was killed in Iraq, and my own father passed away ten years ago." 

"So we decided to pick up and carry on the family legacy that my great-grandfather who I was named after, started decades ago.  So, we pooled our money and started Lee Energies."

Bobby smiles.  "Well, I'm sure Jordan would be very proud of both of you."

"Uncle Bobby, we were discussing some fields down near Odessa that sound like they could be real profitable for all of us,"  says John Ross.

"Here are the geological surveys on those fields,"  Christopher says, unrolling a large piece of paper on John Ross's desk.

Bobby looks the paper over.  "Wow, this does look real good."

"We've had those fields checked and doubled checked,"  says John Ross.  "That's one of the most oil rich fields in the entire state.  So, what we're proposin' here is that Ewing Oil join with the Cartel and buy those ten fields."

"This looks good.  I'd like very much to bring in one more partner on this deal, if it's okay with the rest of you,"  Bobby says.

"Who, Dad?"  Christopher asks.

"Catlin Oil."

"Catlin Oil?"  Peter Ellis asks.  "That's your cousin, right, Bobby?"

"Yes it is, Catlin Ewing."

"I did business with Catlin Ewing a few months ago,"  says Ben Chambers.  "Real nice guy, and a real straight shooter."

"John Ross, Catlin Ewing is married to your mama now, itn't he?"  Peter asks.

John Ross sighs.  "Yes, he is."

Ellis and Chambers exchange looks.  "Alright, Bobby,"  Peter says.  "Catlin Ewing is more'n welcome to come in on this with us and, if he's willin', maybe Catlin Oil can come into the new Cartel.  After all, the more independents we get into the Cartel, the better chance we have of competin' with giants like Westar."

"That's wonderful.  I'll give him a call right now if you fellas can wait around for a few minutes."

"Sure,"  each of the men say.  

"Umm, one more thing,"  says Bobby.  "Now I know that the Cartel has done business in the past with Cliff Barnes and Brad.  But gentlemen, Ewing Oil will not be a part of any organization that does business with those two.  If that's a problem, then I'm afraid we're gonna have to back out."

"Mr. Ewing, we're all aware of the Ewing family's long standing feud with the Barnes family,"  says Ben Chambers.  "And I think I can speak for the rest of the members here and assure you that Stone-Barnes Oil will NOT be a part of the Cartel.  Not now, and not ever.  We had already discussed this, and we had much rather have Ewing Oil in the Cartel than Stone-Barnes."

Bobby smiles.  "Thank you.  That's all I needed to know.  Excuse me for a minute."  He walks over to John Ross's desk and buzzes the secretary's desk.  "Sally, get Catlin Ewing on the phone for me."

"Right away, Mr. Ewing."

"Thank you,"  Bobby says.

Jeremy Wendell's penthouse....

Jeremy is pouring himself a drink in the library at his penthouse that afternoon when Tripp walks in.  Jeremy looks at his grandson, then turns away.  

"You don't seem happy to see me, Grandfather,"  Tripp says sarcastically.

"How much longer are you going to keep this up?"  Jeremy asks.

"Keep what up?"

Jeremy turns and looks at him, then takes a seat on the sofa.  "You're virtually keeping Katherine, William and I prisoners here."

"Prisoners?"  Tripp asks, taking a seat across from him.  "I'm not keeping you prisoner.  You can leave at any time.  But if you do, you probably won't get very far before the police pick you up."

"I should've known it was a big mistake adding you to my will,"  Jeremy says.  "You're nothing but a traitor.  A turncoat.  I should've cut you out and left everything to your younger brother."

Tripp smiles.  "Shawn?  You think that little backstabber is any more trustworthy than me.  Well let me fill you in on your precious youngest grandson.  Shawn was working for John Ross Ewing against ME, his own brother.  That's right.  He planted listening devices in my apartment for John Ross so he could spy on me.  He gave John Ross information on what I was doing.  So you think for one minute he'd show you any more loyalty than I am?  I don't think so.  That punk would sell our mother down the river for a few bucks."

"That's the pot calling the kettle black, isn't it?"  Asks Jeremy.

"Whatever unsavory characteristics Shawn and I have, I'm sure we inherited them from you," says Tripp.

Katherine walks into the library.  Seeing both Tripp and Jeremy, she turns around and starts to leave.

"Katherine, wait,"  Tripp says.  "Don't leave.  Come in and join the party."

Katherine walks over to the two men.  "What do you want?"

"The three of us have been here together for a few days, but we haven't spent any quality time together.  Why don't we do that now?"

"Don't you have a company to run?"  Katherine snaps.

"I'm handling Westar business from here,"  Tripp replies.  "If there's any urgent business, my secretary knows how to get in touch with me."

"So what are your plans, Tripp?"  Jeremy asks.  "What, exactly, are you going to do with us, and how long are you going to keep us here?"

 "Well, Grandfather, until I get what I want,"  Tripp says.

"Which is.......what, exactly?"

Tripp looks at him and smiles.  "Well, first, you're gonna make a new will.  One naming me as your sole heir.  My mother and Shawn get nothing."

"And if I refuse?"

"Then you go back to prison to spend what little time you have left.  The law takes a very dim view of harboring a wanted fugitive such as Mrs. Channing, here.  Especially by a convicted felon like you.  Oh, you could tell them that I also knew Katherine has been here for weeks, but, who would they believe?  The respectable CEO of Westar Oil, or the two of you.......an ex con and a murderess?"

"You think you've won, don't you, Tripp?"  Jeremy asks.  "Well, men have made the mistake of underestimating me before and they've lived to regret it."

"Maybe back in the old days,"  Tripp says.  "When you were younger and you actually had some power.  But now, you're nothing but a pathetic old man with NO power.  Well, I do have some work to get done, so, if the two of you will excuse me, I must adjourn to my bedroom to make a conference call.  Why don't you two just hang out in here for a while?"  Smiling deviously, Tripp stands to his feet, then leaves the room.  

"Can't you do something about that obnoxious punk?"  An angry Katherine asks.

"What do you suggest I do?"

 "Poison darts come to mind,"  Katherine says.  "Or, perhaps a cup of tea laced with arsenic."

 Ann's cell phone rings as she comes down the stairs at Southfork and into the foyer that afternoon.  Taking her phone from her pocket, she sees that Emma is calling from California and quickly answers.  "Emma, thank God.  I've been tryin' to reach you for the past three days."

Falcon Crest, Tuscany Valley, California....

"I needed some time away from here, so I took a little trip to this cabin Michael owns at this lake where he goes fishing,"  Emma says.  "What's going on?"

Southfork....

"Emma, we need to talk,"  Ann says.  "I think it's time we told the truth about who Logan's father is."

Falcon Crest....

"What?  Are you OUT of your mind?"  Emma asks.  "No, we can't."

"Emma, we can't keep this up.  Kevin is gone now, so he can't be hurt by this."

"No, but your grandson can.  Kevin left Logan a LOT of money in his will, and half of his share of Falcon Crest. Do you know what would happen if it came out that Kevin was not Logan's father?  Richard would take everything away from my son."

Southfork....

"Emma, if it's the money you're worried about, then I'll GIVE you the money,"  Ann says.  "But this can't go on.  Emma.......I've heard from Katherine."

"What do you mean, you've heard from Katherine?"

"Katherine.......or SOMEONE.......has been sendin' me letters in the mail.  Letters that say, 'I know your secret.'  It means that Katherine is out there somewhere, and she could blow us out of the water at any time.  And Bobby has not only the police but some private detectives lookin' for Katherine.  It's only a matter of time before they find her."

Falcon Crest....

"So what if they do?"  Emma asks.  "Katherine is wanted for murder and attempted murder.  If they find her and she talks, we'll just deny it.  Who would believe her over the two of us?"

Southfork....

"I'm not willin' to take that chance,"  Ann says.  

Falcon Crest....

"You PROMISED me that you were gonna keep this secret,"  Emma says, near tears.  "You can't do this to me.  Not now.  Please, Mom.  You are my MOTHER.  I need you now.  I need you to just keep your mouth shut."

"Emma....."

"Please, Mom.  I am BEGGING you.  Just keep your mouth shut.  If Katherine is caught, that could be the best thing for us.  She's caught, she tries to tell the truth about Logan, you and I say we have no idea what the crazy bitch is talking about, and Katherine is sent to prison for the rest of her life.  Please, just trust me.  No one would ever believe Katherine Wentworth over us."

Southfork....

Ann sighs.  "Alright," she says.  "I'll keep this secret.........for now.  But Emma, we can't keep this up much longer.  The truth about who Logan's father is will have to come out, eventually, and it's better it comes from us than from Katherine Wentworth, or anyone else she's told."

"Alright, but just give me a little time."

"I'll talk to you soon,"  Ann says, then ends the call.  She puts her phone into her pocket, then leaves the foyer and 

goes into the living room, unaware that Alex is in the dining room, having heard most of her conversation about Emma's baby and the true paternity.   A worried look crosses the boy's face.  Once again, Emma Ryland and her illegitimate child could become a problem.

Southfork....that evening....

 Bobby is in the den that night pouring himself a drink when John Ross and Krystina walk in.   "Evening, Bobby,"  Krystina says.

"Well, hello,"  Bobby greets.

"Where is everybody?"  John Ross asks.

"It may just be the three of us for dinner tonight.  Ann is upstairs in bed with a migraine, Christopher and Courtney, Lucas and Heather took the boys out to a movie, Alex had a date with Bridget, and I don't know where Lucy is."

"Sure is quiet around here this evening,"  Krystina says.

"It won't be for long, I invited Mama and Catlin out for dinner,"  says John Ross.

Bobby smiles.  "Well, good."

"So, Uncle Bobby, what did you think of the Cartel?"  John Ross asks.

"I really liked what I saw.  I've known Peter Ellis for a long time, and he's always been a good businessman and very trustworthy.  Chambers and the Lee boys seem okay.  Jason reminds me a lot of his granddaddy."

"And what about Brandon Harwood?"

"I have my reservations about him,"  Bobby replies.  

"How come?  Harwood Oil is now one of the biggest independents in Dallas.  Brandon Harwood could be a real valuable member of the Cartel."

"I know that.  But, the fact is, he IS Holly Harwood's son, and I'm not sure I trust him just yet."

"What was that I heard about........Holly Harwood's son?"  Sue Ellen asks, she and Catlin walking into the room.

"John Ross, Christopher, and I had a meeting today with the new Cartel," replies Bobby.  "And Holly's son is a member."

"I didn't even know that Holly Harwood had a son,"  Sue Ellen says.

"Neither did I."

"How old is he?"

"Oh, I dunno.  Early 30s, I suppose,"  Bobby says, looking at Sue Ellen.  

"I see.  Early 30s,"  Sue Ellen says, in her mind wondering if perhaps another one of J.R.'s indiscretions had resulted in yet another illegitimate child.  Across the room, Bobby takes a sip of his drink, wondering the same thing.

Stone-Barnes Oil....the next morning....

 Brad walks into the offices of Stone-Barnes Oil the next morning, a sad look on his face, and walks over to Amanda's desk.  He gently touches the desk and lets out a deep sigh.   On the desk is a framed photo of he and Amanda.  He picks the photo up and looks at it.  Cliff walks into the office.  

"Morning,"  Cliff says.  "You and I need to have a talk.  Where's Amanda?"

"She's gone."

"Gone?  What, gone on an errand or something?  When will she be back?  I need her to type up a letter for me."

"Well, I guess you're gonna have to type that letter up yourself,"  Brad says.  "And I'm gonna have to call an employment agency to find a new secretary."

"What are you talking about?"  Cliff asks.  "Why do we need a new secretary?"

"Because Amanda is GONE."

"What do you mean by that?"

"Amanda has been acting strange lately,"  Brad says.  "Sad, depressed.  I've asked her what was wrong a number of times, but she would never really tell me.  This morning, I got up, and Amanda was gone.  I found a note she left me."

"A note?"  Cliff asks.  "What kind of note?"

"A goodbye note, Cliff.  Telling me that she's sorry, but, she has to get away from Dallas and everything here."

Cliff lowers his head for a moment, then looks at his son.  "I'm sorry.  I know you really cared for that girl."

"Yes, I do care for her,"  Brad says.  "I thought we were doing great together."

"What was in the note?"

"She was talking about Dylan Baxter."

"What?  Dylan Baxter?  Isn't that the kid who lives with Ray and Donna Krebbs?  Jack Ewing's kid?"

"Yeah.  I knew that the Baxter boy had developed a crush on Amanda last year.  What I didn't know was that she slept with him, and then, she ended up with me.  The kid was so crushed he started drinking, and now he's in a rehap center.  Amanda says in the note that she blames herself for destroying Dylan Baxter's life.  She also talks about how she hurt Justin Ewing, and she's bad luck to any man she comes in contact with and she doesn't wanna end up hurting me like she has all the others.  So.......she's gone."

"I'm really sorry, son,"  Cliff says.  "I know how much that hurts."

"I really thought that, for once in my life, I'd found something real.  Something good, and lasting.  I should've known it wasn't gonna last.  Amanda said in the note that she didn't wanna hurt me, but she did exactly that."

The phone rings on Amanda's desk.  "I'll get that,"  Cliff says.  He walks over to the desk and picks up the phone.  "Hello, Stone-Barnes Oil.  This is Cliff Barnes.  Oh, yes, Ellis, good morning.  I hope you're calling to tell me that us and the Cartel can do some more business in the near future."  Cliff listens for a few moments as Ellis speaks on the other end of the line.  Then a shocked look comes over Cliff's face.  "What?  Wait a minute, why?  I thought..........Damn it, Ellis, that's not good enough.  I think I deserve an explanation for this sudden change of heart.  Well, wait, I........Yeah, I'm sorry, too, DAMN IT!"  Cliff angrily slams the phone down.

"What the hell was that all about?"  Brad asks.

"The Cartel is cutting ties with us."

"Why?"

"Ellis wouldn't say.  But my money is on the Ewings.  Peter Ellis and Bobby Ewing go way back.  My guess is that the Ewings told the Cartel not to do any business with us, or they would never do any business with THEM."

"Great.  Just GREAT,"  says an angry Brad.  "And without the Cartel, we're backed into a corner.  Just what we need.  DAMN!"  Brad brushes past Cliff, goes into his office and slams the door behind him.

The Cattleman's Club....later....

 John Ross walks into the Cattlemen's Club for lunch early that afternoon.  "Good afternoon, Mr. Ewing, it's been a while,"  says the young, blonde hostess.

"Afternoon, Nikki, and yes it has,"  John Ross says.  "I'm here to meet Jordan Lee III."

"This way, sir."  Nikki grabs a menu and leads John Ross across the crowded restaurant to where young Jordan Lee III is seated.  

"Jordan, how ya doin'?"  John Ross asks.

"Just fine, Mr. Ewing,"  the young man says, shaking John Ross's hand.  

"What can I get you to drink, Mr. Ewing?"  Nikki asks.

"Bourbon and water on the rocks."

"And Mr. Lee?"

"I'll have the same."

"Comin' right up.  And your server will be with you shortly."  Nikki smiles, and walks away.

"Jordan, thank you for agreein' to meet with me for lunch."

 Bobby, Ann, Sue Ellen, and Catlin are having lunch at Perry's that afternoon.  "I am really enjoying this,"  Catlin says.  

"So am I,"  agrees Bobby.  "Been a while since the four of us have sat down to lunch together, with just us."

"Ann, I'm really glad that you're feeling better today,"  Sue Ellen says.

"Thank you, Sue Ellen.  I'm real sorry that I missed y'all last night at dinner."

"It's quite alright."  says Catlin.  "Bobby told us you had a migraine.  I know how bad those things can be."

"Yes, it's been a long time since I've had one, and I'd almost forgotten how painful they are."

A look of shock comes over Sue Ellen's face as she looks past Bobby and Ann.  "Sue Ellen, what is it?"  Bobby asks.

"I don't believe it,"  she replies.  "We were just talking about that woman last night and here she is.  Oh Lord, she's coming this way."

Bobby turns around and sees Holly Harwood and her son Brandon coming over to them.

"Well, I sure don't believe this,"  Holly says, walking up to the Ewing table.  "Bobby Ewing?"

Bobby smiles as he stands from his seat to greet her.  "Hello, Holly, it's certainly been a long time."

"Yes, it has.  I think the last time we saw each other was at some fundraising function about......25 years ago?"

"Yes, I believe that's right."

"And Sue Ellen, hello."

"Holly,"  Sue Ellen says in a rather cold tone.  

"I must say, you're looking very well.  You haven't aged a bit."

"Thank you."

"Oh, where are my manners?"  Bobby asks.  "Holly Harwood and her son Brandon, this is my wife, Ann, and Sue Ellen's husband, Catlin Ewing."

"It's very nice to meet all of you,"  Brandon says.

"And you too, Brandon,"  Catlin says.  "I understand our two companies are gonna be partners on the Cartel."

"Yes, that's right, we are."

Sue Ellen looks at Brandon Harwood very carefully, trying to see if he bears any resemblance to J.R. or to any of the Ewings.  "Well, don't let us keep you,"  Sue Ellen says, again in a cold manner.

"No,"  Holly says.  "We'd better get to our table.  Bobby, it was so nice to see you again after all these years.  And you, too, Sue Ellen."  Holly smiles, then she and Brandon proceed to their table.

"Holly Harwood?"  Ann asks.  "Itn't that the woman who......."

"Yes,"  Sue Ellen says.  "The woman who destroyed my marriage to J.R. not long after we'd gotten married the second time, and led me to go back to the bottle..........and her son."

As Sue Ellen mentions Brandon, Bobby looks across the room at Holly and Brandon as they take their seats, and he, too, is wondering if J.R. could possibly be the father of Holly's son.

A Chick-Fil-A in Dallas....

 Alex, Bridget, Shawn, and Ashley are eating at a Chick-Fil-A restaurant in Dallas that evening.  While Shawn and the girls carry on a conversation, Alex has been very quiet the entire meal.  He is staring out the window, paying no 

attention to the conversation, deep in thought about what he'd heard Ann say on the phone the day before.  "So what do you think, Alex?"  Shawn asks, but Alex remains in his thoughts, failing to even hear Shawn's question.  "Hey, Walton?"  

"Huh?  What?"  Alex asks, snapping out of his daydream.

"Dude, what's up with you?"  Shawn asks.  "You've been so spaced out all day you've hardly heard anything any of us have said."

"Alex, is everything alright?"  Bridget asks.

"Yeah, everything's fine,"  Alex replies, managing a weak smile. 

"Where's your mind at today, bro?"  Shawn asks.

"I just have a lot on it.  Now, what was your question?"

"I just asked what you would think of the four of us havin' a little party after prom Saturday night?  Maybe a pool party or somethin'."

"Yeah, that sounds good."

"Do you think we could do it at Southfork?"  Bridget asks.

"Sure, I don't see why not."

Ashley looks at Alex, then at Shawn.  "Bridget, why don't you and I go and get a milk shake?  I love Chick-Fil-A's milk shakes."

"Yeah, so do I,"  says Bridget.  "I kinda get the feeling these two boys need a minute to talk."

"We'll be right back,"  Ashley says. 

"You guys want a shake?"  Bridget asks.

"Sure, I'd love one,"  replies Shawn.

"Alex?"

"Yeah, sure, why not.  Vanilla."

"We'll be back in a couple minutes,"  Bridget says, she and Ashley leaving to go to order their shakes.

"Okay, so start talkin', bro,"  Shawn says.  "What's weighing so heavy on your mind?"

"Emma Ryland and her bastard kid,"  Alex replies.

"Emma again?  I thought you'd forgotten all about her since she went back to California."

"I wish I COULD forget about her.  I overheard Ann on the phone yesterday.  She was talking about Katherine Wentworth.  That crazy lady has been sending Ann these weird notes or something about Emma's baby. I didn't understand it all.  But, Ann wanted to tell the truth about who the real father of Emma's baby is.  I guess Emma convinced her not to, at least for now."

"You still think John Ross is the father?"  Shawn asks.

"Who else?  Emma had already broken up with my Uncle Lucas when she got pregnant.  She had an affair with John Ross before, so why not again."

"Dude, why are you so worried about this?  You said yourself that Emma convinced Aunt Ann to hold off on telling truth about the baby for now."

"Yeah, but that doesn't mean Ann won't.  Then there's that nutcase, Katherine Wentworth.  What if she tells.  John Ross and Krystina are so happy together, but they won't be if she finds out he cheated on her with Emma Ryland. And I have all the siblings I need.  I sure as hell don't want a little brother by that slutty cousin of yours.  Somehow I have to find a way to keep this secret from coming out or it could wreck my Dad and Krystina's marriage."

Southfork....that night....

 Christopher and Courtney walk into their bedroom that night.  "Did you notice how quiet both Ann and Alex were at dinner tonight?"  Christopher asks.

"Yeah, I did.  I noticed that Ann hasn't seemed herself, lately.  I wonder what's bothering her."

"No idea, but whatever it is, I'm sure she and Dad'll work it out."

"Christopher, is everything okay with you?"  Courtney asks.  "You seemed a little preoccupied yourself, tonight."

"You're right, I am.  Courtney, I think it's time we told Chase Gioberti about my plans to adopt Jacob. We've put it off long enough.  I'm anxious to get moving on this adoption."

"So am I,"  Courtney says.  "But......."

"I know,"  Christopher says.  "You're worried about how Chase is gonna react to this."

"Yes, I am, Christopher.  Things have been so peaceful for us these last few months since Chase agreed to back off and drop his custody suit.  But, if we bring this adoption up to him......we have no idea what his reaction will be.  He could decide to go through with trying to get custody, and if that happens........I just don't know."

"So what do you wanna do?"  Christopher asks.  "To keep Chase Gioberti happy, do you wanna just drop this whole idea of me adopting Jacob?"

"No, of course not."

"Good, because I don't like that idea at all.  Courtney, I want this adoption to happen.  I wanna be Jacob's father.  We can't keep putting this off forever."

"I know,"  says Courtney.  "You're absolutely right.  Okay.  We'll call Chase and tell him."

"No.  This isn't something that should be done over the phone.  We should fly to California and tell him in person."

Courtney nods in agreement, worried sick about how Chase would react to the news that Christopher wants to adopt Jacob.

Holly Harwood's home....the next morning....

 Holly is lounging by her pool the next morning when her maid walks onto the patio.  "Excuse me, Miss Harwood?"

"Yes, Lois?"  

"There's a Bobby Ewing here to see you."

"Bobby Ewing?"  Holly asks with a smile.  "Thank you, Lois.  Tell Mr. Ewing he can come on out."

"Yes, ma'am."  

Holly stands from her seat on her lounge chair and pours herself a cup of coffee from a pot sitting on a table by the pool.  A moment later, Bobby comes out of the house.  "Bobby, hello," she says.

"Hello, Holly."

"Wow, I don't see you for 25 years, and now all of a sudden, twice in one week.  So what can I do for you?"

"Well, I was just hopin' we could talk for a few minutes."

"Of course.  Would you like some coffee?"  Holly asks.

"Sure, I'd love some."

Holly walks over to the table able and pours a cup of coffee which she, hands to Bobby.  

"Thank you," he says.  

"Now then, Bobby, what is it you wanna talk to me about?"  Holly asks.

Jordan Lee III is laying in bed in his apartment with Sabrina, the young waitress he had met while having lunch with John Ross the day before.  Jordan looks at the girl.  "Wow, last night was amazing."

"Yes, it was.  I'm really glad I gave you my number."

"So am I,"  Jordan says.  "But I really should get up and get out of here.  I have class this morning."  Sabrina kisses Jordan, then gets out of bed.  For a few seconds, he stares at her gorgeous nude body.  She smiles at him, then puts on her panties.  

"When can I see you again?"  Jordan asks.

"I'm free as a bird after my shift tonight,"  replies Sabrina.  "I get off at 9."

Jordan smiles.  "Great.  How about I pick you up after work?"

"I'd love that.  And, what would we do?"

"Well, we could come back here and have a replay of last night."

"Then we are DEFINITELY on,"  Sabrina says.  

Jordan rolls over in bed and picks up his watch from the table beside the bed.  "Oooh, it's gettin' late.  I've gotta get up and get ready for work, myself."

"Okay.  I'm gonna go take a quick shower, and I'll be out soon."

"Why don't you get the water started, and I'll join you?" Jordan asks.

"Even better,"  Sabrina says with a smile.  Jordan watches the girl as she turns and walks into his 

 adjoining bathroom.  She closes the door.  "Damn,"  Jordan says with a smile.  After a brief hesitation, he gets out of bed and slips on his boxers just as his doorbell rings.  "Now who could that be this early?"  He picks up the first pair of pants he can find, a pair of jeans, from the floor and slips them on as the doorbell rings a second time.  "Coming," Jordan says.  Making his way through his living room, he opens the door of his apartment and is surprised to find John Ross standing there.  "John Ross?"

"Good mornin', Jordan."

"John Ross, what are you doin' here?"

"Well, I was just hopin' we could talk a little further about what we discussed yesterday.  You know, those gas fields up in Canada,  This won't take long.  I figured you'd be up and gettin' ready to go to the office by now."  John Ross walks into the apartment.

"Ummm, yeah, I was just about to get ready."

John Ross listens as he hears the shower water running.  "Well, you got comp'ny, Jordan?  I hope I didn't pop in at a bad time."

"Yeah, John Ross, actually this is kind of a bad time.  Can't we talk about this later?"

"Well, I was just hopin' you had a chance to talk to your Uncle Jason yesterday and you'd have an answer for me this mornin'."

Before Jordan can say anything, Sabrina comes out of the bedroom, only a towel around her waist.  

John Ross turns around and sees the girl.  "Oh my Lord," he says.  "Sabrina?  Sabrina Parker?"

"Hi, Mr. Ewing,"  the girl says.

 John Ross turns back to Jordan, who is very embarrassed and blushing at this point.  "Jordan, it's none of my business who you choose to go to bed with, but, next time, ya might wanna find a girl who's at least the age of consent."

"What?"  Jordan asks stunned.  

"Yeah, Jordan.  Sabrina, here, she's what, darlin'?  16?"

"Yes, I'll be 17 next month."

"What?  You're........you're 16?  You told me you were 19."

Sabrina smiles.  "Sorry......I lied."

"Oh my God,"  the nervous and frightened young man says, running his hand through his hair.  "Oh God, I can't believe this."

"Jordan, don't you worry," says John Ross.   "Only the three of us know what happened here, and I know Sabrina itn't gonna say a word, right, darlin'?"

"My lips are sealed."

"And your secret's safe with me,"  John Ross says.  "So you got nothin' to worry about.  Now, Jordan, while Sabrina here goes and gets some clothes on, why don't you and I talk about those gas fields in Canada I'd like to buy, and your future cooperation in voting matters as a member of the Cartel?"

Jordan looks at him, tears running down his face.  "This......this whole thing was a set up, wasn't it?"

"I prefer not to think of it that way.  I like to think of this as a mutual cooperation that'll benefit both of us.  You convince Jason to sell Ewing Oil those fields, and you vote with me anytime somethin' comes up for a vote in the Cartel, and no one will EVER know that you bedded an underage girl last night.  After all, I sure wouldn't want your career and life ruined the way so many other men have been ruined recently by accusations of sexual assault and the like.  Now, can I count on your cooperation?"

Jordan looks at the man and, left with no other choice, the frightened and defeated young man nods. 

Ewing Oil....evening.... 

 As Bobby is about to leave Ewing Oil late that evening, he passes by Sue Ellen's open office door and notices that she is still sitting at her desk.  He pauses for a moment and looks at her, then walks to the door and knocks.  "Sue Ellen?"

"Oh, Bobby, come in."

"I thought you'd already left."

"I had some work to finish up before leaving.  I suppose it could've waited until Monday, but I wanted to get it done while it was on my mind."

"Is everything alright, Sue Ellen?"  Bobby asks.

"Yes, everything is fine."

Y'know, I have known you for a very long time.  Almost all of my adult life, in fact.  I can tell when somethin's wrong. You wanna talk about it?"

 Sue Ellen sighs.  "I was just thinking about some things.  Bobby, the other day when we were at lunch with Ann and Catlin, and Holly Harwood stopped by our table.  Seeing her again after all these years just brought back a lot of emotions for me.  It reminded me of that awful time when J.R. was sleeping with her.  All the destruction that woman brought to my life.  If it weren't for her, Mickey Trotter might be alive today.  Oh, I know that man J.R. had destroyed, Walt Driscoll, deliberately ran Mickey and I off the road that night because he was trying to kill J.R., but, Holly was the one who set that whole terrible evening into motion.  And then there's her son.  Don't tell me you didn't see it, Bobby.  The dark hair.  His smile.  Hasn't it crossed your mind how much he looks like J.R.?"

"Sue Ellen, before you go any further with this, don't,"  Bobby says.  "Yes, I had the same suspicions as you.  I wondered if Brandon Harwood could be J.R.'s son.  So I went to see Holly this morning before I came to the office, and she assured me that J.R. is not the boy's father.  Brandon was born in 1986, three years after Holly's affair with J.R. ended."

Sue Ellen smiles as she nods.  "Well, that's good, then.  IF she was telling you the truth.  Who's to say that J.R. and Holly didn't resume their affair later?"

"I don't think that would've happened after what Holly did to the two of you.  J.R. never would've had anything else to do with her after that.  So rest your mind, Sue Ellen.  Brandon Harwood is NOT J.R.'s son."

"I am happy to hear that,"  Sue Ellen says.  "I must sound pretty foolish."

"Foolish?  Why do you say that?"  Bobby asks.

"J.R. and I divorced almost thirty years ago.  But it's like, even after all this time, he still has such a hold on my life."

"You spent 17 years married to the man, and most of your life loving him.  As you said at J.R.'s funeral, Sue Ellen, he was the love of your life.  That's not a love you ever truly get over.  Especially when your relationship was as passionate and volatile as yours was."

"You're right."

"Hey, how about I call Ann, and you call Catlin, and the four of us have dinner in town tonight?"  Bobby asks.  "It's Friday night, and we don't have to be at work tomorrow morning, so we can have dinner, and maybe see a late movie."

"That sounds very nice.  Alright."

"Well, let's get out of here, then."

Sue Ellen smiles, opens a drawer on her desk, and takes out her purse.  She shuts down her computer, then she and Bobby leave the office together.

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

 John Ross, Krystina, Lucy, Lucas, and Heather are having breakfast on the patio the next morning when Alex comes out of the house.

"Morning, Alex,"  Krystina says.

"Morning,"  the boy says, taking a seat at the table.  "Where is everybody this morning?"

"My Dad and Ann were out late last night,"  Lucas replies.  "So they're sleeping in.  Christopher and Courtney are sleeping in, too, because they're flying to California today to see Jacob's father."

"And the boys are still asleep,"  Heather replies.

"I'm surprised to see you up so early on a Saturday mornin', especially with prom comin' up tonight,"  says John Ross.

"I've been up for a while."

"Too excited for prom to sleep, huh?"  Lucy asks.

Alex smiles.  "Yeah, kinda.  You know, senior prom is something that only happens once.  So I wanna make this a perfect night for Bridget."

"That's really sweet, Alex,"  Heather says.  "I'm sure it'll be a perfect night for both of you."

"I hope so,"  Alex says, looking at his watch.  

"Y'all still comin' back here after prom tonight to swim and grill out?"  John Ross asks.

"Yes, we are, and we promise not to make too much noise and keep everybody up."

"Hey, don't worry about that,"  Krystina says.  "We just want you kids to enjoy yourselves."

"Hey, I have to get goin',"  Lucas says.

"Where you off to so early?"  John Ross asks.

"Well, John Ross, I have a ranch to run, and since it's been so dry lately, we're about to move a couple of the herds from Big Stick Pasture to Section 20, where there's more water.  You wouldn't wanna help us, now would ya, John Ross?"

"That's what we got the hands for.  And you, of course,"  John Ross replies.

"Yeah, just thought you might wanna try your hand at some good, hard work for a change,"  Lucas says, standing from his seat.  

"I work plenty hard keepin' Ewing Oil the successful comp'ny it is."

Lucas smiles.  "Gee, I thought my Dad and Christopher were the ones doin' that.  Well, I'll see you all later."  

"Will you be home for lunch?"  Heather asks.

"Sure will,"  Lucas replies, kissing his wife.  He smiles again, then walks away.

"John Ross, why don't you lay off Lucas?"  Heather asks.

"Me?"  John Ross asks.  "I may not be completely blameless, but that husband of yours has a pretty smart mouth, himself."

"I've never understood why you and Lucas don't get along,"  Lucy says.

John Ross smiles.  "Well, I guess our cousin Lucas and I mix together about like.......oil and dirt," he says as his cell phone rings.  He  takes the phone from his pocket and looks at it.  "I gotta take this," he says, quickly getting up from the table.  Walking into the house, he answers his call.  "This is John Ross," he says.  

"John Ross, this is Jordan Lee III.  I had  a chance to talk to Jason yesterday, about those gas fields in Canada.  And.. .........he agreed to sell half those fields to Ewing Oil, at top dollar."

"Well, now, Jordan, you boys made the RIGHT decision,"  John Ross says.  "Those fields are gonna make a lot of money for both Ewing Oil and Lee Energies, and, I trust that I can count on you to be in my corner if ever I need your vote with the Cartel?"

"Whatever you want,"  Jordan says.  "Just make sure that no one ever finds out about me and Sabrina.  Make sure she doesn't talk.  If anybody found out, it would ruin my life and embarrass my family  terribly."

"Jordan, you have nothin' to worry about.  Sabrina has been well paid, so she won't talk.  And of course I'm not gonna say anything about your little indiscretion.  After all, I wouldn't want anything bad to happen to a friend and an ally," John Ross says with a smile.

Braddock High School....that night....

"What's the matter?"  Shawn asks.

"Candace Moore.  Oh wow, she's coming over here."

"Well, I just don't believe it,"  says Candace, walking over to the foursome.  "Ashley Beaumont.  I had no idea you were back in town."

"Hey,"  Shawn says to Ashley.  "Did that bother you?  I mean, I could see that you really can't stand Candace Moore.  Does it bother that she and I........"

"Hooked up?  No, of course not.  Why should it?"

"Well, I was kinda hoping that, well, you and I have gotten pretty close this week.  And, I have to say I like you, Ashley.  I REALLY like you.  And I was hoping that, when you move here this summer, maybe you and I could be a little more than friends."

"I really like you too, Shawn,"  Ashley says.

He smiles.  "Enough to date?"

"Well, we'll have to get to know each other a little better, but, we'll see where things go."

"Come on, let's not just stand around.  Let's dance.  I wanna show off the prettiest girl on the dance floor."

Ashley smiles, then she and Shawn move to the floor and begin dancing to the music.

A short distance away, as Alex and Bridget dance, he begins experiencing another headache, and a look of pain comes over his face, which doesn't escape Bridget's notice.  "Alex, what's wrong?  Are you okay?"

"Yeah, I'm fine."

"Are you having another headache?"

"Yeah."

"Maybe we should just go sit down,"  Bridget suggests.

"No way.  I didn't bring my girl to prom just to sit on the sidelines.  I came here to dance and to party!"  Alex says, trying to ignore the pain in his head.  

"Well, if it gets TOO bad, we're leaving."

"Yes, Mother,"  Alex says with a smile.  As he and Bridget continue dancing he also begins to feel dizzy in addition to the headache, and his vision suddenly becomes blurry.

"Alex," Bridget says, touching his face.  "Hey, is it worse?"

"I feel a little dizzy, and a little sick."

"Okay, come on,"  Bridget says.  "We're sitting down, now."  She takes him by the hand and as they begin to leave the dance floor, Alex staggers.  Bridget catches him and helps him over to a chair.

Not far away, Shawn notices them.  "Hey," he says to Ashley.  "Look. Something's wrong with Alex."

Ashley looks over to Alex and Bridget.  "Let's go see."  

Shawn and Ashley walk over to their friends.  "Hey, Alex, what's wrong?"  Shawn asks.

"He's having another one of those headaches, and he's dizzy,"  replies Bridget.

"Come on, let me help you,"  Shawn says, taking his friend by the arm.  As he does, Alex suddenly passes out and falls, Shawn managing to catch him before he hits the floor.

"Alex, OH MY GOD!"  Bridget yells.

Shawn lays his friend on the floor.  "Alex, dude, come on, wake up,"  he says, gently slapping his face.  

A crowd begins to gather around them, and a teacher comes over.  "What happened here?"  The teacher asks.

"We don't know,"  Bridget says.  "He just fainted or something."

The teacher kneels beside him.  "Alex?  Alex?  We have to call an ambulance."

"Alex, oh God,"  Bridget says in tears, kneeling beside him as a worried Shawn and Alex look on, along with the small crowd gathered around them.  Meanwhile, the rest of the students and adults in the crowded room are  oblivious to the fact that anything has happened, as they continue dancing.

Falcon Crest, Tuscany Valley, California....

 The doorbell rings at Falcon Crest.  The Chinese butler, Chang-Li, walks into the foyer and opens the front door.  "May I help you?"  He asks the young man at the door.

"Special delivery for Miss Emma Ryland," the young man says.  

"Thank you," Chang-Li says.  He takes the envelope and closes the door.  A moment later, Emma is coming out of the nursery upstairs after putting baby Logan down.  "Miss Ryland?"  The butler says.

"Yes, Chang-Li?"

"This just came for you by special messenger,"  Chang-Li replies, handing Emma the large manila envelope.

"Oh, thank you."  Emma takes the envelope, and Chang-Li walks away.  Taking the envelope into her bedroom, Emma closes the door, takes a seat on the bed and opens the envelope.  Inside, she finds three photos, one of her 

infant son Logan, one of Kevin Channing, and one of Lucas, as well as a piece of paper.  Emma turns the piece of paper over and looks at it.  It's an ominous note made up of letters that appear to have been cut from a magazine......the same note Ann had received on several occasions.   Emma's heart sinks as she realizes that Katherine is toying with her.  Somehow, Emma thinks to herself, that bitch Katherine has to be found and neutralized before she can blow the lid off of her secret.

Meanwhile....back in Dallas, Jeremy Wendell's penthouse....

Tripp is sitting in a bedroom at Jeremy's penthouse, looking down at a letter on the table in front of him, the same letter that Emma had just received at Falcon Crest.  "Well, Emma,"  he says.   "You should be receiving my little message right about now.  I wish I could see the look on your face when you open that envelope.  And now......let the fun begin."  Tripp smiles deviously.......

END OF EPISODE 170....