Chris decided that the best way to work through this problem was to act. He got up off the bed and decided he would take a shower and go out to Southfork and go riding. Like his dad Christopher enjoyed the ranch life and he had not been back to Southfork since his parents' wedding and the explosion. This would also give him the opportunity to see the progress the workmen were making.

Ellie and Clayton were glad to be back in Dallas. Neither had wanted to stay in Italy any longer than they had to. Clayton had settled everything concerning Dusty's affairs and was trying to put everything behind him. It was half past five and both Ellie and Clayton had slept on the plane and they planned to have breakfast at Southfork in a few hours. Some of the Ewings had already moved back in and Ellie was anxious to do so as well.

"Well, Clayton, that looks like the last of it. I'll call the front desk and have someone come up for the luggage."

"I don't know about you, but I'll be very happy to get back to the ranch."

"You know I will, Clayton."

"Then it's to Southfork we go!"

"Good Morning, Ryanne."

Ryanne Hancock smiled, shut the folder that she was writing in and turned around. "Good Morning, Bobby. How's Pam?"

"She's fine, she's asleep." He looked at her. "Ryanne, can I ask your medical advice?"

She listened to what Bobby said, his worry for his wife very obvious.

She shook her head. "Bobby, I can't do much without Pam's permission. But let's just worry about getting her out of here. Then, if she wants, I'll do whatever is needed to get her missing years back."

"Dr. Bader is supposed to come in and check on her, but she hasn't been in yet."

She glanced at her watch. "I'll tell ya what. I'll go chase down Dr Bader and find out what's taking so long. I'll be back and we can talk with Pam."

Bobby nodded and once Ryanne had left, he turned around to walk back to Pam's room. He came to her bedside and leaned in to give his wife a kiss. "Quite the friend you have there, sweetheart. I really like her." He sat back in his chair and wondered why that birth certificate would upset Pam to the point of collapse and near-miscarriage. "Once I know that you and the baby are all right, I'm going to have a little talk with your friend, Mark."

Ryanne came back in with a smile. "Have I got news for you."

He turned around. "What did Dr. Bader say?

"Momma and Baby are fine. She will be here to do a few final tests but she figures that they can go home today and as she told you before, as long as Pam doesn't do anything stressful, she and the baby should be fine."

Bobby turned back to Pam and kissed her cheek. "You hear that, Pam? You and the baby are fine."

Pam nodded. "I just want to go home."

The sun was just beginning its ascent into the Dallas early morning sky as Christopher drove up the long Southfork driveway towards the house. Due to the early morning hour no one could be seen on the premises. The workmen would not be arriving for another couple of hours. Christopher entered the empty house and began to survey the workmen's progress. As he entered the dining room, he thought about how much he missed the traditional Ewing family dinners. He thought about the look that would be on J.R.'s face when he announced at the dinner table that he now owned a large portion of West Star stock. His mind then flashed back to the many arguments and fights that his dad and J.R. had had over dinner through the years.

Christopher ascended the steps to the second floor and noticed that his room was finished and wished he could move in. He couldn't wait for the day the whole house was finished and everyone could be together again. His thoughts then turned to Karen and the realization that when he did move back to Southfork, Karen would not be returning with him if he did not do something.

"Well, Christopher, I didn't know you'd be moving back in so soon."

"Grandma, hi. No, actually I'm just here looking around. I was going to see the progress that the workmen had made."

Miss Ellie smiled. "What workmen? The place is all finished. Clayton and I are moving in now. You're welcome to do the same."

"The sooner the better."

"We'll be having breakfast soon if you'd like to join us out on the patio."

"No thanks, Grandma. I think I'll go for a ride out on the ranch. I'm not really hungry."

"Suit yourself. Don't forget about the big dinner tonight. I want everyone to be there."

"Sure," smiled Christopher. "I'll see you later."

Christopher then descended the stairs and went out the patio door where he walked towards the stable area.

"Hello, Mr. Christopher," came the familiar voice of Emmanuel. "What brings you here this early in the day?" he inquired.

"Not much," said Christopher, "thought I'd stop by and see how the repairs on the ranch were coming and take Thunderbolt out for a ride. How are things going for you, Manny?"

"Muy bien," said Manny. "It is good to see you again, Mr. Christopher. When do you think you will be moving back in?"

"From what my Grandma just told me, it looks like I'll be moving back in today."

"That is great. I know you will be glad to get back home. Would you like me to saddle up Thunderbolt for you?"

"Yes, thanks Manny," replied Christopher.

A few minutes later Manny appeared with Thunderbolt all saddled up and ready to ride. "Here he is, I am sure he will be glad to see you."

"Thank you, Manny," said Christopher. "I am glad to see him, too. I should be back in a couple of hours."

"OK," said Manny. "It is good to see you again. I hope to see you again soon."

"You will, Manny. I promise," said Christopher as he led Thunderbolt out into the pasture.

For the first time in over two months, when the sun rose over Southfork, it didn't rise over the picture of construction. The house was completely finished, complete with a new coat of paint. For the Ewings who were already living in it again, Southfork was a welcome change from the hotel life they had become accustomed to over the last couple of months. However, the number of Ewings eating breakfast together out on the patio was sparse.

"It's a beautiful morning isn't it, Miss Ellie?"

"Yes it is, Donna," said Ellie, taking a sip of her coffee. "The ranch is more beautiful than ever. And Margaret, how are you liking Southfork so far?"

"I love it, Grandma!"

They heard the sound of Ray's truck as it pulled into the drive. Moments later came the sound of two doors slamming. "Well, Mornin' everybody," said Ray. He walked over and kissed Donna.

"Hi, Cowboy," said Donna.

"Good Morning, Ray," said Ellie.

Lucas walked up moments later. "Hi, Lucas," said Ellie. Donna also spoke, as did Margaret, but Lucas barely acknowledged them.

"Hi, Grandma," said Lucas to Ellie.

"I was expecting a bigger crowd this mornin'," said Ray. "Where is everybody?"

"Pam is still in the hospital, but she's probably going to be released today. Christopher is still living at a hotel, but he came out early this morning to go for a ride on the ranch. John Ross is upstairs in his room and Clayton is upstairs taking a shower.

"Well, how is everyone this morning," came J.R.'s voice. He walked out onto the patio and noticed that Margaret was in his seat. J.R. took the next available one. "And who is this pretty little lady?"

"J.R.," said Donna, "this is Margaret."

"Is that a fact," smiled J.R. "Nice to meet you, Margaret."

"It's nice to meet you, too, Uncle J.R. I've heard quite a bit about you."

"Oh? Not all of it good I hope," he said with a laugh.

"J.R., you appear to be in a good mood this morning," said Ellie.

"Well, it's hard not to be in a good mood knowing that I'll be sleeping in my own bed at Southfork tonight. I've still got a few things to pack up and I'll have someone bring them over later today. Is Bobby here?"

"No, Bobby and Pam are still at the hotel."

"Now, isn't that something. I've hardly spoken to either of them since the wedding. But I have heard that Pam is expecting a little one."

"Yes, she is," said Ellie. "She and Bobby have wanted this for so long. J.R., I'm really proud that you and Pam have been able to set your differences aside. That means a lot to me."

"Thanks, Momma." J.R., after having drunk a cup of coffee, stood. "Well, it's back to Dallas for me. I just wanted to stop by and see how everyone was doing. Is our dinner still on for tonight, Momma?"

"Yes. Seven o' clock sharp and don't be late."

With a laugh and a nod in the affirmative, J.R. was off. Hopefully, Doug Avant would have some information waiting for him at the office.

"Dr. Hancock?"

Ryanne turned around and saw Mark Graison walking towards her. "What can I do for you, Mr. Graison?"

"I just wanted to know if Pam was all right?"

Seeing the worry on his face, Ryanne nodded. "She and the baby are fine. They are to be released this afternoon. If you'll excuse me--" She was about to step around him when he reached out an arm to stop her.

"Pam always said that you were such a good friend to her."

Ryanne smiled. "It goes both ways. But I am late. If you want to know more about Pam, Bobby's on his way out. You can ask him."

As he watched the blonde head towards her B.M.W., Mark remembered another day. "You know that she's ill, we can't have her harming the child. I love her as much as you do but, Alexander's well being is the paramount concern here."

He turned away and studied a photo of the mother and child that was sitting on the night table. "He's good for her. I just can't turn around and send her away from him. That would do them both more harm than good."

Her voice was like silk. "I do love Pam. I've been here all along, helping her AND you." She went to sit on the couch. "I mean, I haven't heard you complain about our time in bed."

Mark shut his eyes. "I told you that was a mistake."

Katherine grinned. "But that still hasn't stopped you from being with me, now has it?"

He sat up and got dressed. "Sometimes, Katherine, You just go TOO far.

Katherine waited until he walked to the door. "Obviously, since Pam's still here and is still a danger to Alexander, I haven't gone far enough."

Mark was jolted back to reality as a nurse brushed past him and he continued on his way.

The shrill beep of the alarm clock jolted Afton Cooper into the land of the living and she stumbled out of bed. For just a few seconds, her life seemed ordinary—like it had once been. She expected to find Cliff and Pamela Rebecca already eating breakfast. Instead, she was reminded of her current dilemma. Her mother was still nowhere to be found and she knew she'd have to go to the police today. Yes, today was the day. Afton walked into the kitchen and put a pot of coffee on, then picked up the phone. After several rings, a man's voice came on the other end.

"Hello, Roy."

"Afton! Where have you been?"

"Busy. And I'm not going to be able to come in today. I've got some important things to take care of."

"What's wrong? You sound strange."

"No, really, Roy. I'm fine. I just need to take care of this."

"Okay, Afton. I'll give you some more time, but the show premiers very soon. We have deadlines to meet."

Afton rolled her eyes. "Yes, Roy, I know. I'll be in as soon as I can."

"Well … Then take care of yourself until then. Goodbye, Afton."

"Goodbye, Roy."

Christopher wandered around the ranch aimlessly. He loved the ranch and riding while the temperature was only about sixty degrees and the sun made it feel much warmer. He stopped at the tree house where he and John Ross played as children. He then rode down to the lake where he let Thunderbolt stop for a drink. As Christopher looked around the ranch he thought to himself what a special time of year it was, what with the trees and the grass turning a lush green and all of the other wonders of nature. He smiled as he thought of the great memories he had of he and his dad working the ranch when he was younger. Christopher then mounted Thunderbolt again and started off into a fast gallop, running the horse hard. His thoughts again turned to West Star and the stock he now owned.

It was about two hours later when Christopher returned to the stable area. He took the saddle and blanket off of Thunderbolt, brushed him down and returned him to the stall. When he was finished he felt much better. He now had a plan. Christopher walked back to the house, stopping to grab a cup of coffee and speak to the family. The time to act had arrived, thought Christopher, as he got into his car and drove off.

"Hey, is this Baby Ewing's room?"

Pam looked up and started to laugh at the sight of Grover's large head peeking through the door. "Yes, it is. C'mon in, Grover, and bring your pal with you."

Bobby came in and sat Grover in the chair. "What do you think?"

Laughing at the mischief in his eyes, Pam nodded. "He's a BIG fellow."

Bobby looked at him for a moment and grinned. "I LIKE him."

Pam smiled and finished packing. "Well, Grover and I are ready to go home. So, shall we?" Bobby pulled her to him for a kiss. "What was that for?"

"Just to show you how glad I am that you're all right and that the baby is and just to say that I love you. Now, I have just a little bit of business to take care of, then I'll be back to get you out of this place."

"Then I'll anxiously await your return," smiled Pam.

Christopher Ewing returned to his hotel. He stopped into the coffee shop and got himself a cup of coffee and a bagel before taking the elevator up to his room. Christopher walked over to the phone on the table by the bed, picked it up, and dialed.

"Fredrick Lauder's office" came the voice on the other end of the phone.

"Yes, this is Christopher Ewing. May I speak to Mr. Lauder, please?" asked Christopher.

"Hold just a minute, sir, and I will see if he's free."

A moment later, Fredrick Lauder was on the phone. "Hello, Mr. Ewing. What can I do for you?" he inquired.

"Yes … Mr. Lauder, thank you for taking my call. I was wondering if you could tell me how to get in to contact with Kaitlin. I wanted to thank her for the West Star stock."

"Well, Christopher, as you know, Kaitlin has left Dallas and I don't where she is exactly right now. I would be happy to let her know you called when I hear from her."

"Thank you, Mr. Lauder, I would appreciate that," replied Christopher. "Goodbye."

"Goodbye, Mr. Ewing"

Christopher hung up the phone, and then dialed another number.

"Good morning, West Star, how may I help you?" Came the voice on the other end of the line.

"Yes … Christopher Ewing for Jeremy Wendell."

"One moment, please. I'll see if he's free."

Christopher sipped his coffee and chewed on his bagel while he waited for Jeremy to answer.

"I am a very busy man! What is it, Mr. Ewing?" came the voice of Jeremy Wendell.

"I think we need to talk, Wendell."

"Listen, I told you before that I don't owe you any sort of an explanation," said Jeremy

"Maybe I owe you an explanation, Wendell," responded Christopher.

"What are you doing trying to do? Be like your uncle J.R.? I told you that I am a very busy man. I don't have time for kid games," said Jeremy, now with a tone of annoyance in his voice.

"I'll be at your office at 10:00 tomorrow," said Christopher.

"I'll be in at noon," responded Wendell who then hung up the phone.

"Tomorrow," said Christopher to himself.

Todd was startled by the knock at his motel room's door—he wasn't expecting Bobby to come over so soon. Bobby had called Todd earlier in the morning to finally give Todd an answer to what he had been wondering for weeks---would Bobby help him get his mother's money? Todd answered the door quickly.

"Hi, Bobby, come on in." Todd had a queasy feeling in his stomach. He prayed that Bobby was going to support him. "Sorry, this place is kind of gross."

Bobby remained standing and gave a polite smile. "Todd, I have an answer for you." Todd didn't know whether he should feel overjoyed or scared. Bobby continued. "I've been doing a lot of thinking about the last few weeks—about what you've said, and what Michelle has said, too. I loved your mother very much. She was one of my best friends in the world."

Bla, bla, bla, Todd thought. Cut to the chase.

"I want you to realize that my decision has nothing to do with you, personally. I was suspicious of you when you first came to town, but that's changed. I like you and I trust you but, I can't help you with your case. It just doesn't feel right. April's death is still very painful for me, and I know for Michelle, too. She may not be the most tactful lady on the planet, but she loved your mother. We both did. Michelle is not going to go along with this issue—you know she'll fight every step of the way. I don't want to fight, and I know April wouldn't have wanted it, either.

Todd was shocked, disappointed, worried, and most especially, angry. "Oh, really." He said with detectable contempt.

"But you're totally validated in how you feel. I know that had you entered April's life when she was alive, she would have taken care of you. So I'm going to take over for her. If you want to stay in Dallas, I can help set you up in an apartment and a job. Even if you wanted to go back home, I could help."

Before Bobby could even finish, Todd interrupted. "Listen Bobby, I'm really not interested. You don't want to help me? Fine. I've got other options. Now please leave." Todd walked over to the door and opened it. Bobby normally would have wanted to sock the kid, but decided to hold his temper in respect to April.

"Oh, and Bobby. You can tell Michelle that I'm not old news yet." With that, Todd shut the door behind Bobby. Todd was seething. Other options? What other options? He hoped that if he was able to get Christopher and Karen back together, then Christopher might use HIS influence to help him. But it was stupid of Todd to blow up at Bobby. He looked out the window and saw that Bobby's car was gone. He made a note that he'd call Bobby later and apologize—after all, if Bobby could get him set up somewhere, it was better than nothing. The shrill ring of the phone startled Todd. He picked it up on the first ring.

"Hello?"

"Todd. It's Christopher." Todd was surprised to hear from him. The two made cordial chit chat for a minute, when Christopher finally said, "The reason I'm calling is that there is going to be a big dinner tonight at Southfork, to celebrate the family moving back in. Karen is going to be there, and I'd love for you to come as well. As both our friend."

Hmmm….Todd thought. "I'd love to." After getting the details of when and where, Todd hung up with Christopher. Going to Southfork would be a good opportunity to apologize to Bobby. And being Christopher Ewing's friend wasn't a bad thing. After all, as Todd just read, Christopher now owned 21% of West Star Oil stock. No, Todd thought as he lit a cigarette, not a bad friend to have at all.

"Look, officer!" said Afton in an agitated tone. "My Mother is out there somewhere and she is not in the best of health. We need to find her and soon."

"Miss Cooper, we cannot officially do anything until your mother has been missing for 48 hours."

Melissa McSween walked out of her office and smiled at Afton. "What's the problem?"

"My Mother is missing."

"Wait a minute. You're Afton Cooper. Your daughter is Pamela Rebecca, right?"

"Yes, that's right," said Afton.

"Well, come into my office. I'll see what I can do."

"J.R., it's never a good idea to keep a lady waiting," said Marilee as J.R. took a seat at their outdoor table.

"Sorry Marilee, but I got tied up in some business at Ewing Oil." J.R. took a menu from the waitress and sat it on the table before him.

"No way J.R.," said Marilee. "No lunch until after you've told me why you wanted to meet with me."

"Haven't you guessed already?" said J.R., "I want to buy StoneHurst Oil from you."

"WHAT? J.R., StoneHurst Oil isn't up for sale at the moment."

"Maybe not, but everything is for sale at the right price. I've done a bit of research on your company and I've got an offer all ready for you. J.R. pulled out some papers from his briefcase."

"My, you are presumptuous aren't you?" said Marilee taking the papers from him.

"Now StoneHurst isn't a big company, but I'm prepared to offer you $35 million for it."

"Impressive. But what would you want with a little company like StoneHurst?"

"Marilee, Ewing Oil is on the grow. I want to buy out some small companies to make Ewing Oil bigger."

"J.R.! StoneHurst Oil is going to be my son's company some day! I don't intend to let it be swallowed by your company!" Marilee ripped the papers in half and threw them at J.R., storming from the café.

J.R. laughed. "She'll come around." It was then that he heard voices behind him and could have sworn someone had said his name. He began to listen.

"You've got to kind of feel sorry for the poor old guy," said a man with black hair.

"I heard Ewing Oil was quite a competitor in its day. But that was back when Jock Ewing was running it. His son J.R. just ran it into the ground. It's only a shell of its former glory."

"Campbell Oil is almost the size of Ewing and it's only been around for about five years! I tell you, he just doesn't have any excuse," said one of the men, whose name was Jesse.

"It's just a matter of time before a company such as West Star swallows Ewing Oil whole…or either it goes bankrupt. Whichever comes first."

The three men shared a loud laugh together as J.R. turned back to his table. Make fun of Ewing Oil will you. You'll regret that some day. And with my plan, it just might be sooner than you think. J.R. grabbed his hat and left the café without ordering. He had big business ahead of him. Ewing Oil was going places. J.R. would make sure of that.

Lucy opened the door to see Eric standing outside. She welcomed him in with a smile.

"I hope you didn't mind me dropping by," said Eric.

"Eric, you know I never mind you stopping by. What brings you here?"

"Well, I really enjoyed our talk the other night. The food fight was fun, too," said Eric with a laugh. "I thought we might talk some more."

Lucy smiled. "Come sit down, then. Would you care for anything to drink?"

"No thanks, I'm fine."

"I've been wanting to talk to you too, Eric. Out of all the people I know, you're really the only one I can completely open up to. It's strange. I haven't even known you that long."

"Then you go first. I'm all ears."

"It's my parents. I don't know how much you know about the Ewing family tree, but my Daddy is J.R. and Bobby's brother. He lives in California with my mom Valene."

"I'm vaguely familiar with it," said Eric.

"Anyway, I was raised here in Texas by my Grandpa Jock and Grandma Ellie. I lived there at Southfork with them, Bobby, Pam, J.R., and Sue Ellen. I never really identified with my parents because they always seemed so far away from me. Fate has thrown me back with them a few times over the past few months, but it was always awkward. The last time my mom and I had a little talk and things seemed to be better, but even that is fading now. I don't know why I'm telling you all this Eric, but I'd do almost anything to be able to go to California and visit with them for a while, see what their lives are like. I barely know my brother and sister. I even have a grandmother out there that I've never even met."

"That's understandable, Lucy. You should have the opportunity to know your family." Eric had a far away look in his eyes.

"What's wrong?"

"I was just thinking."

"About what?"

"My family."

"I don't know much about your family, Eric. I only know about your mom. What about your father?"

Eric bit his lip. He could tell her that Cliff Barnes was his father. No one else but his mom knew. Did he trust Lucy enough to tell her? "That's kind of a long story."

"We've got all day. Do you have any brothers and sisters?"

"I have a half-sister."

"See, you've never even told me that."

"Lucy, I really need to go. I just remembered an important meeting I have to go to this afternoon. Sorry to cut our talk short."

"Sure," said Lucy in a bewildered tone.

"I'll see you later."

"Bye, Eric," said Lucy.

J.R. sat back in his chair and thought about what Doug Avant had just told him. April Stevens did have a son—one Todd Foster, who had just shown up in Dallas to ask his brother for help in getting April's money.

Gold digger just like his aunt, J.R. thought. What Doug had gone on to tell J.R. was much more interesting. Apparently, April Oil had just acquired some oil rich land in Northern Texas, and the leases to pump it. This was all knowledge that had not been made public yet, leaving J.R. in awe once again of how resourceful Doug was. As J.R. looked over the figures for the fields that Doug had faxed him, his eyes grew large with the thought of profit. These were no ordinary oil leases. Combined, they were worth hundreds of millions of dollars. Doug mentioned that this was one of the largest oil discoveries in the last ten years. J.R. was shocked when he found out a wimpy little company like April Oil got hold of them—how? Doug explained that the current head of April Oil—after all, Michelle just collected the profits while she tanned her butt in California—had gotten them.

J.R. knew Bryan Bottger, April Oil's chief executive, from a deal that he had conducted years earlier, when Bryan was a bigwig at Jordan Lee's company. As Doug explained, Bryan's brother-in-law was the geologist that discovered the large oil deposit, and then secretly tipped off Bryan, who bought the land that held the oil before anyone else knew about it. Now April Oil owned the land, and J.R. wanted it. He knew that bitch Michelle would never sell it to him, but he was determined to get it. Ewing Oil was suffering from a lot of fields drying up, so getting a hold of these leases would solve the surplus problem. He made a promise to his daddy that he would make Ewing Oil one of the leading oil companies in the 21st Century, and getting those leases sure wouldn't hurt. J.R. called out to Janice to get Bryan Bottger on the phone.

A moment later, J.R. picked up the phone and greeted Bryan. "Bryan, you old devil. How're you doing?"

"I'm great J.R. What about you?"

"Well, I got a lovely granddaughter now." J.R. did not choose to mention that Christopher was secretly Megan's biological father. "Southfork's pretty much rebuilt. I got Ewing Oil back. Can't complain."

"Well, great. So what can I do for you today?"

"Bryan, I've always said you'd be one of the smartest oilmen in Texas. You proved me right. I've heard about those oil fields that your little company over there has acquired. Mighty appetizing."

"J.R., you never change. I would love to sell them to you—God knows you deserve them more than the witch that owns this place."

"So why can't you sell them to me? You're head of the company. Michelle just sits around on her pretty little back and collects the money so she can buy herself some more clothes."

"True. But she has final say on all sales and purchases. Her signature is required on all documents pertaining to such. And it's no secret around town how she feels about you."

Damn, J.R. thought. He thanked Bryan and hung up. He was determined to get those fields, one way or another. Suddenly, an idea dawned in J.R.'s head. A sly grin formed across his face as he made plans for those fields.

Just outside J.R.'s office, lurked a hiding Lucy who thought to herself: well, well, well, J.R. Since you're not going to welcome me to the company with open arms, I'll just have to start collecting dirt on you, won't I?

Once again, Ray Krebbs found himself standing outside of the Indigo Club. He walked to the door and walked past the bouncer. The atmosphere was the same as the night before, for some reason, Ray had expected it to be different. He had half expected the sign to say "The Cattleman's Club" again, but it hadn't. Music played loudly and several girls danced up onstage.

A red-head, in her late 30s, wearing a skimpy waitress' outfit, walked up to him seductively. "Table for one?"

"No. Actually I'd like to talk to the owner. What's your name Miss?"

The woman hesitated for a few minutes, apparently sizing Ray up. "Jenna."

Ray's smile turned to a somber look. "Jenna. That's a nice name." Jeez, she even looks like Jenna.

"Thank you," said Jenna with a flirtatious smile.

"Jenna, what are you doing working in a place like this?"

"Look Mister! I don't have time to be preached to about my choice of profession!"

"I just hate to see a pretty girl such as yourself working her life away like this."

"Well I don't really have a choice. The bills have to be paid and I have to give my little girl a decent life," said Jenna.

"Jenna, what's your last name?"

Jenna looked suspiciously at Ray. Her line of work had taught her not to trust anyone. "Why do you want to know?"

"Just curious."

"Evans, Jenna Evans."

"I'm Ray Krebbs. Nice to meet you Jenna." God, it felt so damned weird saying that…

"You wanted to talk to the owner?"

"Yeah."

Ray wanted to talk to her for a while longer, but he also wanted to talk to the owner of the Indigo Club. She led him past several tables until they came to a hallway at the back of the room. Jenna Evans walked to a door and went inside. A few minutes later, she came out.

"He'll see you now."

"Thanks." Ray opened the door and walked into the small office. Posters of nude women hung on the walls and an overweight man in his 40s sat behind a small desk.

"I'm Rolan LeBeau What can I do for ya Mr. Krebbs?"

"Mr. LeBeau, I think it's what I can do for you that's important."

"What do you mean? You're not an undercover cop are you? Because I sure ain't runnin' no prostitution ring here!"

Ray laughed at the idea of someone thinking him an undercover cop. "No, I'm not a cop. Just a concerned citizen."

"All right. Let's cut to the chase. What do you want?"

"I want to buy your little club here," said Ray.

"Sorry Mr. Krebbs, but my club ain't for sale.

Ray grimaced when he found himself about to say something that he had heard J.R. say so many times before. "LeBeau, everything's for sale at the right price."

LeBeau showed interest. "And what's your offer?"

"$150,000," said Ray.

LeBeau let out a laugh. "Mr. Krebbs, that's not worth the trouble I've put into this place."

"It could buy you a really nice house."

"Sorry Krebbs. I ain't sellin' for that."

"$200,000" said Ray, confident that LeBeau would go for it.

"Look Mr. Krebbs, my time is valuable."

"$500,000," said Ray.

LeBeau's eyes grew large. "D…did you say 500 grand?"

"Yep, that's what I said."

"You don't look like the type that has that much to offer for a place like this. And why the hell would you want this place anyway? You won't make that much out of it."

"Then I believe our point is settled," said Ray. "You won't make that much out of it. Five-hundred thousand bucks could really take you places LeBeau."

"I'd have to think about it," said LeBeau. Yeah right! The hell I'll have to think about it. But if I bluff, he might offer more.

"That's my highest offer. I'm already payin' too much for this place. So you can say you'll think about it all you want, but I'm not raising my offer."

LeBeau grew quiet. "Well then Mr. Krebbs, I think I'll sell."

Ray smiled and shook Rolan LeBeau's hand. "I'm sure you won't regret it. I'll have the papers drawn up and I'll be in touch."

Todd thanked the cabdriver as he pulled into the Southfork driveway. God, he'd have to apologize to Bobby Ewing after this cab ride. After all the money that Todd had been spending lately, his funds were running out and he could use any help that Bobby could give him in finding a job. He was in awe of how huge and majestic Southfork was. He dreamed of living in a place like it some day.

"Todd? What are you doing here?" Bobby was standing behind him, having come out of the patio door.

"Bobby, listen. I really want to apologize for all the things I said earlier. That was incredibly rude of me."

"I figured that maybe your emotions took the best of you."

"I'll admit, I was very disappointed by your decision. But I understand where you're coming from." Todd was lying through his teeth. "I wanted to come and apologize because I was completely unjustified in what I said. You've been great to me ever since I came to town, and you didn't deserve that."

Bobby smiled. "Apology accepted. And my offer to you still stands, if you choose to take it." Todd wanted to hold out on the Bobby job offer for now, because if things worked out in helping Christopher and Karen, Todd would be a lot richer than any paying job Bobby Ewing could get him. "Anyway, why don't you stay for dinner. The family would love to meet you. Especially my mother. She was very fond of yours."

"Actually, that was another reason I was here. Christopher invited me to dinner." Bobby looked really surprised, so Todd explained. "I met Karen randomly one day in Dallas. We just started talking and became friends—it wasn't until later that I realized how she was connected to you." Todd loved lying. "Anyway, through her I met Christopher. I've become friendly with both of them, so Christopher was nice enough to invite me."

"God, it's a small world. Well come on in and meet the Ewings."

Pam, Christopher, Miss Ellie, Clayton, and Lucy were all gathered together in the living room, sipping on cocktails and chatting. Miss Ellie was excited for the big dinner to celebrate the homecoming to Southfork. Teresa was in the kitchen cooking, and the whole family was gathered together. It made Ellie feel like things were perhaps getting back to normal.

"Where is everybody?" Lucy asked. She had just gotten back after her talk with Eric.

"Well, I believe that Pamela Rebecca and John Ross are still getting ready upstairs. So are Donna, Margaret and Lucas. I'm not sure where everybody else is, but they should be arriving soon. They all know what time dinner starts." Ellie prayed that the whole family would be there. It meant so much to her.

She looked up to see Bobby walk into the room with a man about John Ross' age. She didn't recall if she had ever met him.

"Hey Todd! I'm glad you made it." Christopher said. Ellie figured he was a friend of Christopher's.

"Hi." Todd replied, smiling.

"Everyone, I'd like to introduce you to Todd Foster. Christopher's friend, and April's son." Bobby said.

An expression of shock swept over the room. Miss Ellie and Clayton both looked shocked and confused. Pam seemed a little uncomfortable at the mention of April's name. Lucy was scoping out Todd's butt.

"Oh my God. April had a child?" It was Sue Ellen, coming in from the other room, with John Ross and Pamela Rebecca behind her. "She never told me."

"She didn't tell anyone." Bobby replied.

The silence was making Todd uncomfortable, so he spoke up. "I didn't know about my mother until recently. She had me a very long time ago---I guess she was really young. When I learned I was adopted, I came to Dallas in hopes of learning more." Todd paused and smiled. "Coincidentally, I randomly met Christopher and Karen one day, and now we're friendly." Todd chose to leave out the details of when he first met Christopher, something that Christopher seemingly agreed with through his silence. Pam looked a little shocked that Todd and Christopher knew each other. Even a little disturbed.

"Well Todd, it is very nice to meet you. We were all fond of your mother." Ellie's voice saddened a little at using the past tense for April. "Please stay for dinner. We'd love to have you."

Todd thanked Miss Ellie. Bobby then went around the room, giving introductions. Todd was a little bit confused by the whole Ewing family. He felt like he needed a pencil with him, so he could keep track of the family tree.

Donna Dowling was worried. Where was Ray? The dinner tonight was an important event to Miss Ellie, and Ray had better show up. It was important to HER too. She was going to be living at Southfork now, but she didn't know how she felt about that. She loved Miss Ellie, Clayton and the family like her own, but she had been away for so long. It had been more than ten years since her divorce from Ray. Now she was back in Dallas, with her daughter. Donna worried about Margaret. Her father had just died, and now she was taken to Texas to live in a strange house with people she had hardly ever met AND forced to share quarters with her real father, as well as her soon to be step brother. Plus, Lucas was obviously not fond of her. Donna heard Margaret and Lucas squabbling in the other room over a computer game. It must have been hard for Lucas to accept Donna so soon after Jenna's death. But that's why Donna wanted Ray there with her for this dinner. To make things easier for her after so long apart from the whole family, to make things easier for her in getting to know Lucas, to make things easier for Margaret by getting to know her own father. Donna looked at her watch again. Dammit, where was Ray?

Christopher went outside to grab a breath of fresh air when he saw Karen pull up in the driveway. She got out her car, and the two immediately locked gazes. Christopher ran up to her and gave her a huge hug. Karen didn't resist—rather, she embraced him all the more.

"Karen, I'm so glad that you're here. I've missed you."

"I'm glad I'm here too. It's been too long." Karen replied.

"Everyone can't wait to see you. My mother has been asking about you all night. Todd's here, and so is grandma."

Karen was silent. "Christopher, we need to talk. Later tonight, after dinner."

"I can't wait." And he couldn't.

Dinner was almost ready, and the Southfork living room was teeming with Ewings. Karen had just entered the room, and was warmly greeted by everyone. Pam and Karen were sitting on the two grand chairs, talking.

"I'm so happy to see you," Pam said. "Christopher—all of us—have been so excited now that we know you're back."

Karen didn't know what to say to Pam, but she had always been honest in the past. "I don't know if I'm back, though. I mean, I'm here for dinner, but beyond that I don't know. Christopher and I have to talk some more. Things still aren't totally clear." Karen wanted to change the subject. "Pam, I'm glad the baby is okay. I meant to stop by and see you at the hospital but the time just got away from me."

Pam looked directly into Karen's eyes. "He loves you Karen. I don't like to interfere with Christopher's life now that he's grown, but I will say this: He loves you, and he is sorry for anything that he has done. Sometimes things aren't always as they seem, and a second chance is the only way to sort out the truth. If it weren't for second chances, Bobby and I wouldn't even be here today."

Pam's words rang in Karen's head. She had a point. Karen would talk to Christopher later, and hopefully sort things out.

Meanwhile, across the room, Christopher was talking with Bobby, Donna and Clayton. Margaret and Lucas were in the kitchen, trying to be useful to Teresa because they were bored. Christopher didn't know how he felt about Lucas. After all, they were half-brothers, but really only in the biological sense. Christopher wondered whether he should try to bond with Lucas, or do something brotherly. Clayton shaked him out of his daydream.

"So, Christopher, how does it feel to own 21% of West Star stock? That is mighty impressive."

"I'll admit, it's a little bit daunting." Christopher had told the family the whole story of how Kaitlin was an imposter. He just wasn't sure HOW she got the West Star stock, but right now he was too overwhelmed to care.

Donna looked at her watch as Bobby said, "Well do you know what you want to do with the stock?"

"I'm not sure yet. I'll admit, I've put it on the backburner because there's just so much else going on right now." Christopher looked at Karen.

Donna looked at her watch again and asked, "So how are things between you two?"

Christopher smiled. "Well, she's here. That's a pretty good sign."

Miss Ellie was sitting with John Ross and Pamela Rebecca on the couch. Megan was asleep upstairs, and Pamela Rebecca seemed annoyed. John Ross was annoyed she was there, but not visibly so. Miss Ellie was questioning them on when they planned to get married.

"Good Question. What's your answer John Ross?" Both Miss Ellie and John Ross were surprised by her curtness.

"Soon, grandma. I think we're going to get a little settled first. After the whole ordeal in Hawaii, and with Southfork just being rebuilt, things are crazy. Plus, I'm really not sure about my place in Ewing Oil anymore. I just don't know where I stand. To be honest, grandma, I'm thinking about leaving."

"WHAT?" Pamela Rebecca was not happy.

Miss Ellie decided that it was best if she make her exit, so she excused herself to the kitchen, promising to talk to John Ross later.

"What are you thinking about, leaving Ewing Oil?" Pamela Rebecca was not about to let the gold that provided her goldmine husband slip away from her grasp.

"God, what's your deal? I just said I'm thinking about it. What's wrong with you lately, anyway? You've been so on edge. Does this have to do with what happened in Hawaii?"

Pamela Rebecca was fuming. Yes, of course it had something to do with Hawaii, but she had already forgiven John Ross for that. "Forget it," she said. "I'm sorry. I think I've just been moody because it's some post-partum thing." Pamela Rebecca got up. "I'm going to go check on Megan." She left for upstairs with a grimace on her face, leaving John Ross to wonder how the hell to get rid of her.

The doorbell rang, breaking John Ross' thoughts and seeing that no one else was around to get it, he walked over and answered it. "Well, Miss Cooper, I didn't know you were coming."

Afton walked in. Dinner was the last thing on her mind at the moment, but Pamela Rebecca had insisted she come. "I didn't either until Pamela Rebecca invited me this afternoon, but I'm glad I was invited."

Lucy spied Afton from across the room and decided to steer clear of her. The last thing she wanted was to ruin this dinner with another of their confrontations.

"Hello Afton," said Miss Ellie. Miss Ellie didn't waste any time getting to her point. "I don't want any trouble out of you. I know how you and my granddaughter feel about one another, but please keep your comments to yourselves tonight."

Afton smiled. She didn't care all that much for Miss Ellie. "Yes Miss Ellie, I'll behave myself." She brushed past Miss Ellie and walked over to where the rest of the family was gathered. She eventually spotted Pamela Rebecca coming down the stairs holding Megan.

"Hi Mom," said Pamela Rebecca.

Afton smiled at her daughter and took Megan from her. "I was beginning to wonder if I was ever going to get to see this granddaughter of mine again. You really shouldn't be so scarce Pamela Rebecca."

"Mom, you haven't exactly been around yourself. Where have you been?"

"Since I've returned from Hawaii, I've been busy with the show," lied Afton.

"I thought we had a promise to spend more time with each other…"

Lucy looked over at Afton as she talked to Pamela Rebecca, but then turned back to Todd. Lucy had taken an instant liking to Todd because he was cute, and Todd liked Lucy for her spunk. She was now filling him in on the family history. As soon as Pamela Rebecca had walked out of earshot, Lucy began on her.

"That's Pamela Rebecca. She's John Ross' wife and my dead boyfriend's daughter. She's also a bitch. Her mom is the strawberry blonde standing behind you and she's no slouch in that department either. Pamela Rebecca used to date Christopher a long time ago, and John Ross used to date Karen, but they did the big switcheroo. I'm kind of glad that she's not with Christopher anymore. I mean, they are cousins."

"What?" Todd was shocked.

"Well, through adoption. Cliff is Pam's brother, and Pamela Rebecca is his daughter, and Christopher is Pam's adopted son." Lucy's thoughts shifted to Ray. "I'm not a big fan of incest."

Lucy then went on to explain how Lucas and Margaret are soon to be stepsiblings, and they're also cousins. Todd was in total shock after hearing the whole history of the Ewing family. "We're a pretty grand family, aren't we Todd?" Lucy asked.

"You're not exactly the Waltons." He replied.

Back upstairs, Sue Ellen left the restroom, and bumped right into J.R. She ignored him and brushed past him. He grabbed her arm.

"Sue Ellen! Quit playing this game. I know how you feel and I feel the same way." He tried to kiss her.

Sue Ellen slapped him clear across the face. "The only way I feel, J.R., is that you belong on a large rock in the desert!" She stormed away into the living room, with J.R. behind her.

Lucy had just finished telling Todd the Ewing family saga when J.R. walked into the living room. "Uh-Oh Todd, you're really lucky tonight. I thought he wasn't going to show up, but I guess he did. My dear uncle J.R.—God's punishment to humanity." Lucy said it loud enough for the whole family to hear.

"Dinner!" Miss Ellie shouted from the dining room.

They all followed Miss Ellie's lead and took seats at the table. Ellie, Clayton, Pam, Bobby, Christopher, Karen, John Ross, Pamela Rebecca, Afton, Lucy, Todd, Donna, Lucas, Margaret, J.R, and Sue Ellen.

Donna was sitting next to Miss Ellie, who asked "Donna, where is Ray? Do you think that anything is wrong? He knew what time dinner was."

Donna was very perturbed at Ray, but chose not to express it to Miss Ellie. "I don't know where he is Miss Ellie. I'm sure if something was wrong, we would have heard about it by now." But Donna knew that something would be wrong after Ray got back, because she was going to let him have it. Lucas had been rude to her and Margaret all night, and Donna felt strange disciplining him. She tried to erase it from her mind and just enjoy dinner, but it was hard.

After some quiet chitchat, Clayton asked Pam and Bobby what they were thinking of naming the baby. Recalling the earlier incidence of Pam collapsing when they were talking of names, Bobby decided to answer "We're unsure still."

J.R. decided to call out, "Well, at least it's going to be a full blooded Ewing and not some half-breed." He was still fuming over Sue Ellen's earlier rejection.

"J.R.! I will not have this at the table." Miss Ellie said sternly.

"Well, it's true Momma. They're unreliable. Look at Ray. Now where the hell is he on this big day of celebration?"

Donna gave J.R. a look of disgust while Bobby piped in, in Lucas's interest, "J.R. keep your mouth shut."

"Well, I just don't understand it. Speaking of half-breeds, Todd, I heard you've come to Dallas looking for your mother's money. I've said it before and I'll say it again, you Stevens' are all gold-diggers."

Todd just looked at J.R. with an upturned eyebrow and a disgusted look. Lucy spoke this time. "Look J.R., we're all not in the mood right now. We are hungry and this dinner is supposed to be celebratory. So be quiet or I'll sell my 7.5% of Ewing Oil to Jeremy Wendell." Lucy gave a little giggle and smiled. That shut J.R. up.

Afton shot Lucy a mean look, but Lucy kept her mouth shut. She was determined that she wouldn't be responsible for a ruined dinner. Miss Ellie raised her wine glass for a toast. Everyone followed suit. "To Southfork," she said. "Home Sweet Home."

Christopher and Karen were walking on the patio. They had a lovely dinner, but both realized that it was time to talk. Karen spoke first.

"Christopher, I love you. I still love you. But I was very hurt by what you did."

"Karen, please forgive me. It was a huge mistake. I regret it every second of every day."

"I know you do. And I've been unfair to you, by not returning your calls and not even talking to you. That was wrong of me, and I'm sorry for that. I guess I just was so angry that I felt like I COULDN'T talk, or I'd blow up."

"No, no I understand. Karen, it was all a mistake. The whole ordeal with Carla was just a huge mistake."

"I know Christopher, but it still happened. What really got me, and still gets me about this situation is that you betrayed me. John Ross betrayed me, and now you betray me." Christopher tried to interrupt. "I know you were drunk, but that's an explanation, not an excuse. This woman might be having your baby Christopher." Karen's eyes began to well up with tears.

"Karen…" Christopher hugged her and Karen hugged him tightly back.

"Christopher, I love you too much to let you go. I want to get back together, but I want to take things slowly. We're still married, and I want to stay married, but I think I'm going to stay in the hotel a little bit longer. It's not because I don't love you, but it's just because part of me is still angry. I feel like I need to flush all that anger out of me before I can really come back to Southfork."

"What does this mean for us then?" Christopher was concerned.

"It means we're married, that I love you, but for right now we aren't going to live together. But we can still go out, talk, do whatever other benefits may come along…" Karen smiled. "What I'm trying to say is that I just need a little bit more time to live away from Southfork. For some reason, everything that happened with Carla comes running right into my face when I'm here. I don't know why. Just give me a little bit more time Christopher."

He promised he would, and meant it.

Ray had stepped out onto the patio. Seconds later, the door opened and Donna stepped out. He knew what was coming next.

"Ray, dinner started at seven. Why were you almost a half-hour late?"

"I had business to take care of Donna," was the only answer Ray gave her.

"Oh like what?"

Ray hated to lie to her, but he wasn't ready to share his new project. "An old friend of mine and I are working on a cattle deal. When I get my ranch back, I don't want it to be without cattle."

"Well that's nice Ray, but you should have called. This dinner was important to Miss Ellie."

"I know. The time just got away from me. Look, Lucas and I are going back to the hotel. I'm kind of tired and Lucas has school tomorrow."

"All right Ray." Donna kissed him good night. "See you soon."

"Night Donna."

J.R. had asked to see Bobby alone in the den, and Bobby was curious what it was about. He was not happy with J.R.'s rude behavior at dinner, but he wasn't surprised. J.R. closed the door behind Bobby.

"Well Bob, I hate to do it, but we gotta talk some business tonight."

"J.R., what business could we possibly have to discuss? I'm not part of Ewing Oil anymore, remember? And you certainly are not going to be part of Northstar."

"Actually, this is about something else." J.R. smiled. "I've learnt that an oil company in Dallas just bought some prime fields that are going to be huge moneymakers for the next fifty years. I want them Bob, for daddy. So I can make his company as big as it should be."

"So, buy them. What are you asking me for?"

"Because the owner hates me and won't sell them to me. Can't imagine why, but she won't. But she'd sell to you Bobby. You were family once."

"Huh?" Bobby was confused.

"April Oil—Michelle Stevens would never sell those fields to me if I were the last man on this Earth. But she'd sell to you, Bob. You two have always gotten along well. If she sold them to you, I would front the money. Then I'd pay Northstar a sizable sum once you sold them to me."

"She won't sell them to me either—because I'm not going to ask her. I'm not going to play spy for you J.R. If for no other reason than your behavior tonight."

"Well fine Bobby. If that's what you want, then do it. But you're not just hurting me, your hurting Daddy and his dream. Ewing Oil needs to be the biggest and the best Oil Company in Texas once we hit the next century, and I'm going to make that happen. For my son and my granddaughter. If you were thinking of Christopher and that baby you got coming maybe you'd see my point. You ever think of them, Bob? Of their legacy?

"Oh spare me. I'm not going to try to get you those fields J.R. End of story." Bobby made his way for the door as J.R. whispered "damn."

Todd Foster ducked into a nearby closet to avoid being seen by Bobby coming out of the den. He had been heading to the bathroom when he heard J.R. and Bobby start to talk. Never being able to resist eavesdropping, Todd heard the whole conversation. Once he was sure J.R. and Bobby had gone into the other room, he left the closet smiling. Maybe Bobby and Christopher weren't the only useful Ewings.

While the Ewings basked in the glow of light from the newly renovated Southfork, others sat alone. Some plotted against the Ewings, others just thought hateful thoughts, but they all had something in common. All of them had something against at least one Ewing…

Lady Jessica Montford had taken a flight back to Dallas from Venice, having followed Clayton and Ellie back. She sat in a darkened room in a Dallas hotel, sipping a glass of orange juice. Because of Ellie, she had spent the last fifteen years of her life in a sanitarium—in pure hell. Jessica wanted Ellie to pay for that dearly, but the time was not right. She would wait…bide her time. When Ellie least expected it, she would strike. But Ellie doesn't expect it at all, laughed Jessica, She has no idea I'm not still locked away and forgotten in that dusty sanitarium.

The room was dark and old-sounding classical music played in the background from an unseen source. She sat the red wine on the table beside her and picked up a photo.

"Such a handsome fellow you are." Katherine ran her hand over the photo and smiled. "You look just like your daddy."

Suddenly her face crumpled and she reached beside her for her nail file. "But you have your mother's eyes." Her eyes went glassy and she smiled.

She started jabbing the nail file into the photo. "I HATE YOUR MOTHER!"

<--- Previous Episode    Next Episode --->