Karen was enraptured by the sounds of the shower that Christopher was taking when the phone rang. "Hello" she said.

"Karen, it's Eric."

"Eric! How are you!" Karen was excited to tell Eric her good news.

"I'm doing great. What about you?"

"Actually, I'm doing fantastic. Last night I had dinner at Southfork with Christopher. We're back together! Isn't that great?"

On the other end of the line, Eric's face quickly turned to a grimace. "Really," he said non-enthusiastically, "I thought that this whole business with the stripper was upsetting to you."

"It is, but I love Christopher too much. I mean, a part of me is still angry. That's why I'm going to be staying here in the hotel for a while longer rather than go back to Southfork. I just need to sort out that anger. But it's not fair to me or to Christopher to deny that I love him."

Eric was livid. He had to come up with another measure to get Karen and Christopher apart permanently. A plan was formulating in his head.

"Well, that's great news. Why don't we go to lunch today, and you can tell me everything that happened yesterday." Eric had gotten good at lying. It was almost natural to him.

"Actually, that would be a lot of fun. Let me take a shower and get ready. Christopher has to go back to Southfork for a little while, so it would just be the two of us."

"Sounds great. I'll give you a call in an hour or so. OK?"

Karen thanked Eric and hung up the phone. Eric's mind was racing at a million miles per hour. He placed a quick phone call to Dallas Memorial Hospital. After a scant five minutes on the phone, he hung up and smiled. Everything was going to plan. He quickly dialed Carla's number. She answered on the first ring.

"Carla? This is Eric. It's time."

Ray noticed the closed sign on the door as he gave it a push. It was locked. He saw someone walking toward the door and they opened it. "Well, Hello Mr. Krebbs. Mind if I call you Ray?" said Rolan LeBeau.

"No, not at all." Ray entered the club and looked around. Finally, he saw an atmosphere that was more like that of the Cattleman's Club, but Ray still had his work cut out for him.

"Did you bring the papers?" LeBeau asked anxiously.

"Yeah, I brought em."

"Well, what are we waiting for. My ship to the Bahamas leaves in an hour. I'm ready to get out of this du--no, not a dump--nice place!" LeBeau greedily rubbed his hands together.

Ray pulled the papers from his pocket and handed them over to LeBeau, who looked at them with a scrutinizing eye. "There you go."

"Looks all fair and square to me." LeBeau produced a pen and hastily signed. "Now, there's a lot you should know. All the keys are in the office—oh yeah, I didn't bother to move any of my stuff out. I figure for $500,000, you could have it all." LeBeau laughed an annoying laugh.

"I think that's it. I do need your phone number just in case I need to contact you."

"Sorry. Technical support doesn't come with the deal. But, I've talked to my right hand man, Bart Phillips. He's agreed to keep right on working here. He practically ran the place for me, so if you need any help, he'll be there—that is, if you will keep him."

"Don't see why I can't."

"Well then Ray, I'm off for some sand and sun." LeBeau pulled out a pair of sunglasses and put them on, fingering the check that Ray had given him.

"All right. Thanks."

No, thank you Mr. Krebbs. Glad this dump is finally off my hands.

Ray walked into the club, his club. He heard a sound in the back. "Funny," said Ray, "LeBeau didn't mention anything about anyone else being here right now." He was surprised to see Jenna Evans.

Jenna was startled as well. She had been packing up some clothes in a duffel bag. She looked at her waitress' apron and threw it to the side. "Hi," she said.

"Hi Jenna. What are you doing here?"

"Oh, yeah, that's right. You're Ray Krebbs. You're the man I should thank for making me lose my job. Thanks to you, I don't have a place to work and my little girl won't have the kind of life I'd hoped for."

"Wait a minute."

"What's there to wait on?"

"You do have a job."

"What?"

"Jenna, if you'll work for me, I'd be glad to have you. How much was LeBeau payin' you?"

Jenna put down her duffel bag. "$5.50 an hour."

"Jeez. If you'll accept the position as my new head waitress, I'll gladly pay you twice that."

Jenna's eyes grew wide. "You mean that? Me and my girl could live like royalty on that!"

Ray laughed. "Sure I mean it. You're experienced. I need someone like you. Besides, what's an old cowboy like me know about waiting tables?"

Jenna smiled and her whole attitude seemed to change. "I would love to work for you Mr. Krebbs."

"Call me Ray," he said as he shook her hand.

J.R. was sipping his coffee and scanning over some field reports when Judy buzzed over the intercom. "Mr. Ewing, there is a Todd Foster here to see you." J.R. wondered what the hell Foster would be at Ewing Oil for. But his curiosity was peaked, so he told Judy to send Todd in.

A moment later, Todd entered J.R.'s office. His stride was confident, for Todd knew that J.R. Ewing could be an intimidating man. But he also knew that J.R. needed him as much as he needed J.R. "J.R." he said in a greeting tone.

"Well, Todd Foster. What brings the bastard son of my ex sister-in-law to visit me on this fine Texas morning? Not money I hope, because you're not getting a dime."

"I wouldn't speak so candidly of bastard children J.R." Todd smirked. "From what I heard you're the resident expert here in Dallas of producing them."

J.R. was surprised that Todd fought back with his comment. It intrigued him even more. "What do you want?" he asked.

"Your help. I think we are both currently in situations right now we would not like to be in. But I believe that we can be mutually beneficial to one another."

"What the hell are you blabbing about." J.R. was not really paying attention to Todd, just half-listening while reading over his field reports.

"I'm talking about the fields in Northern Texas that April Oil recently acquired." THAT got J.R.'s attention. He looked up from his files. Todd continued. "You want them. I can help you get them. But you have to help me first."

"You're crazy just like you're aunt. You don't have a dime to your name---I know, I checked you out. How in the hell do you think you're going to get me those fields?"

"If you're so smart, and you checked me out, piece it together yourself. I want my mother's money. Michelle has it, Bobby won't help me get it. Now I want you to help me."

J.R. still looked confused. "Your point is what?"

"You help me get my mother's estate, I therefore own April Oil. If I own April Oil, I sell you those fields. Comprende?" J.R. had a fleeting look of optimism.

"Suppose I did help you. What the hell am I supposed to do? Give you the money to pay for a lawyer? I've got to break it to you, but you don't have an ice cube's chance in hell of getting that money."

"I realize that my case is not exactly textbook. But I also know that you don't do things in a textbook manner either."

"What are you implying?" J.R. knew Todd was heading towards a bigger issue.

"I know your reputation J.R. Legality takes secondary status next to things that you want." Todd waited for J.R.'s reaction, but he seemed to want Todd to continue. "So here is my proposition. I know your influence in Dallas extends to legal circles. You pay for my legal service, and pull some strings to insure that I get my mother's estate, and I sell you those fields, for a cheap price."

J.R. continued to remain silent, as if he was thinking. Todd decided to try one last angle. "Think about it J.R. These fields could push Ewing Oil into even bigger circles. What better way to end the millenium than with Ewing Oil owning perhaps the biggest oil discovery in the last ten years?"

J.R. broke his silence. "How did you know about those fields?"

"I make it a point to know things."

Todd's words about making Ewing Oil bigger and better really stuck with J.R. He had to do this, for his daddy's sake. "Fine. You've got yourself a deal."

"Wonderful. Where should we go from here?"

"I'll get in contact with you. I'll get you the lawyer and I'll take care of any legal matters. You just wait, and keep your mouth shut. As far as I'm concerned, anything we've talked about in here is between you and me."

"Oh, my lips are sealed," Todd said with a smile.

"I'll make some calls. We'll be in contact soon." Todd made his exit and J.R. reclined back in his seat. He had to give Todd Foster credit for coming in here and confronting him like that. A smile poured over J.R.'s face at the thought of those fields. Perhaps this partnership wouldn't be bad at all.

Another buzz sounded and seconds later, Doug Avant was standing before J.R.'s desk. He knew that today was the day—he could tell by the look on Doug's face. "Well Doug, what is it?"

"I hope I've got all you wanted me to," said Doug.

"Well we won't know until you tell me what it is, now will we?"

"Okay. The company is called the Clifford Group. It's a large corporation, not quite the size of West Star, but it's well on its way. Now, the first name on that list was a Dr. Frank Hancock. I found out that he passed away several months ago. His shares of the stock went to his son, Hayden Hancock."

"Hayden Hancock. That name sounds familiar. Wait a minute! I financed his campaign for mayor several years back. He didn't make it past the primaries though."

"Yeah," said Doug, "I found that out in my investigation."

"Well, what's old Hancock doing with all that stock?"

"Good question. I think you'll have to talk to him yourself for that. All I know is that he got it when his father passed away. He owns exactly 14% of the company and he's currently on their board of directors."

"And you have an address for him?"

"Yeah. Right here in Dallas. He lives on a ranch on the outskirts of town." Doug handed over a slip of paper.

J.R. took it. "I might pay old Hayden a visit sometime today. Who else do you have?"

"This one is strange. Some weird lady from North Carolina. Angelique LaValley."

"LaValley," repeated J.R. "Nope, doesn't ring any bells."

"Well, she owns 18% of the company's stock, but she's living in North Carolina. I found out that her son, who lives here in Dallas, is controlling that for her. He's also on the board of directors."

"Who's next?"

"John Ward. He's the current chairman of the company. Now here's where it gets interesting."

"Go on."

"John Ward will be giving up his position as chairman in three months. Apparently, someone else had control of the company and Ward was a—what do you call it—dummy chairman."

J.R. laughed. "He's got to be a dummy to give up control of that company."

Doug smiled. "J.R. The owner of the Clifford Group was none other than your good friend Cliff Barnes."

J.R. slammed his drink on the desk, coughing. "Damn it Doug. Don't joke with me when I'm drinking."

"I'm not joking J.R."

"Well you have to be! You expect me to believe that that idiot Cliff Barnes owned the second largest oil company in all of Texas?"

"It's the truth."

J.R. began to turn red from laughter. "Doug, that's the funniest thing you've told me all week. Barnes owning that company—oh, and I suppose he left it to his little lover Lucy in the will?" J.R. slapped his knee.

"J.R. Cliff did own that company. And it was mentioned in his will."

"You're serious aren't you?"

"As serious as a heart attack."

"Oh Gawd," said J.R., finally realizing what this meant. "What did he do about it in his will?"

"It took quite a bit of digging to find this. He left four letters. His daughter Pamela Rebecca got one, his wife Afton, your niece Lucy, and his sister Pam. Each of them had special provisions to fulfill before they could assume control of the company. I have copies of those four letters right here." Doug passed a manila folder over to J.R.

J.R. read the first one. "Well I'll be damned. Cliff Barnes actually had that company all along and I hadn't the slightest clue."

"That's not all J.R. I think this final part is the one you'll find most interesting."

"What is that?" said J.R., raising his eyebrows.

"There is a codicil to the will. John Ward was instructed by Cliff to read it after the three month time period. Afton, Pam, Pamela Rebecca, and Lucy have no idea what it says."

"Well, what the hell does it say?"

"It says that if none of those women fulfill their provisions and come forward to claim the company—"

"Yeah?"

"Sue Ellen Ewing will gain control of 50% of the stock and assume the role as CEO."

"Well Pam, are you ready?"

Pam smiled uneasily. "Ryanne, I'm a bit apprehensive about this, but if it'll help me recover all of these lost memories then I'm all for it."

"There's nothing to hypnosis Pam," said Ryanne.

Bobby held Pam's hand tighter. "Then we'll know what all of your memory flashes mean honey. Then maybe we can concentrate on the baby."

Pam smiled at Bobby. "You're right. Let's get this show on the road. The sooner the better."

Ryanne took off her glasses. "Okay Pam. Lie down there on the couch and I want you to relax every muscle in your body…"

Christopher was sitting in the Southfork living room, reading the paper. He was all alone in the house for once, something that was a rare occurrence with so many people now living there. He had just come back from Karen's hotel and was still in complete bliss over their night together. He had a full day ahead of him, but he wanted to make sure that he got some down time before embarking on the day.

Christopher looked up to see Teresa entering the living room. "Mr. Ewing, there is a Carla Thornton here to see you."

Christopher was not happy to hear this. But he figured he should see Carla. He needed to set things straight with her, if Karen was ever to move back to Southfork again. "Send her in Teresa."

Carla entered the Southfork living room, and looked to be in real awe. "Nice place she said. Can't wait till Junior is born so he can play with his daddy in here."

"That baby is not mine Carla. You and I both know it."

"Oh really? Then whose is it? I'm no slut Christopher. You and I did the nasty that night, and now there's a bun in the oven because of it. You better deal with it."

"Carla, I'm married."

"I don't give a flying crap. I'm not asking you to marry me. Please, I could do better."

"Then why are you here."

"Cuz I need to get some checkups from the doctor, and I'm no moneybags. But the Ewings are."

Christopher found himself getting angrier by the second. "Carla, that baby is not mine. I am not going to pay for your medical bills."

"Listen, I'm getting really sick of you calling me a liar. You don't think the baby is mine? Then why don't we just take a test eh? Let's go to the hospital right now, and take a frickin paternity test! Then maybe it'll finally get through that thick skull of yours that this kid is yours."

Christopher was not crazy about the idea, but realized that settling the issue of paternity would be the only way to get Carla out of his life. He had to do it, for Karen. He knew that the baby wasn't his. "Fine Carla, let's go right now. Follow me in your car."

"Thank God. Maybe then you'll see that I'm right." The two made their exit from Southfork, with dollar signs flashing in Carla's head.

Bobby whispered, "Is she completely under hypnosis?"

"Yes she is," said Ryanne. Pam lay on the couch, completely relaxed. "Now we're going to start the questioning." Ryanne's voice became very smooth and tranquil. "Pam, you're going back in time to April 1987, twelve years ago…"

Bobby knew what was coming next and he hated to see Pam relive that moment. Ryanne sensed that and decided it would be best to skip over the actual accident. "You're in a hospital bed. You can't talk and you've already been in that hospital bed for several days. Now tell me Pam, what do you see?"

Pam's lips began to twitch. "I see—I see Katherine."

"What is Katherine doing?"

"She's standing in front of me. I want to scream, but I can't. She's talking to me, telling me that she's going to have everything I had. She's dressed as a nurse and she's writing out a letter. Oh my God, she's reading it to me. It's supposed to be a letter I've written, saying that I'm leaving because I don't want Bobby or Christopher to see me like this. I know what she's going to do, but she's telling me anyway. I feel myself being picked up as she transfers me to a wheelchair, then I feel myself moving as she pushes it out of the room. We start moving down and I hear the 'ding' of an elevator. Then I'm blinded by bright light and I know I'm outside. Why hasn't anyone stopped her yet? There is another woman standing out there and we begin to move toward her. I see her face—it's Jenna Wade. They begin to talk…"

"What are they saying Pam?" said Ryanne. Ryanne glanced at Bobby and Bobby had a worried expression on his face.

"They're arguing. Jenna is asking Katherine where she's taking me. Katherine is telling her that she's taking me to a rest home where I can get better treatment. Jenna says that she knows that's not true and Katherine tells her she's right, but then Katherine's voice grows angry and hateful. She threatens Jenna with such contempt. She tells her that if she ever breathes a word of this to anyone, that she'll make sure Jenna never sees Charlie again. Jenna wants to help me, I can see it in her eyes, but I can't say anything. Oh, I want to speak so bad, but I can't. I can't cry out for help but I want to so badly that it hurts. For a minute I think that Jenna is going to scream out for help, but Katherine mentions Charlie again and I know that Jenna isn't going to help me. Jenna looks at me—it's a sorrowful look. Katherine tells her to go and Jenna gets in her car. Katherine picks me up and puts me in the back seat of a car, then she gets in the front. I see Jenna watching as we drive away…"

"I really appreciate this Bart," said Ray, shaking Bart's hand. Bart was in his mid-thirties and had black hair and a mustache.

"No problem Ray. The county health inspector will be here at the end of next week to check everything out. That's necessary after a shutdown like this. Basically, you're back to square one as far as opening the place up. You'll have to get a liquor license in your name and the new name of the place—you know, all that stuff.

"No I don't know Bart," laughed Ray, "but that's why you're still here."

"So I see you're keeping Jenna on as well. Why her?"

"I don't know. Call it a hunch, but I think she's got potential."

"She's a good waitress, that's for sure," replied Bart.

Ray looked at the clock on the wall. "Well I need to go pick my son up from school. I'll be back in a little while. I want to go over some details with you."

"Sure thing Ray."

"Okay," said Ryanne. "Katherine has taken you to the sanitarium and she's there with you. She has the phone in her hand. What does she say?"

"She's talking to someone," said Pam, still under hypnosis, "she's telling him to drug someone. She wants them confused."

"Who does she want drugged?"

"I haven't heard the name. Wait, she's saying it. Oh my God. She's getting someone to drug Jenna so she won't tell about me. She's saying that no one will ever believe a raving lunatic."

"Okay Pam. Skip ahead in time, about three years. Where are you now?"

"I'm in a house. A big house. I'm sitting in front of a mirror and there's a woman standing behind me. Oh no, it's Katherine. She's brushing my hair. I'm—I'm wearing a wedding dress."

Bobby and Ryanne looked at each other. "Why are you wearing a wedding dress Pam?"

"I can hear music playing outside. Katherine tells me it's time to go. I'm getting married. I walk down a long flight of stairs and I walk outside into a beautiful garden where people are gathered. I'm walking down the aisle. The wedding march is playing and Katherine is walking ahead of me."

"Who are you marrying Pam?"

"Mark Graison. I'm marrying Mark Graison."

"Oh my God!" said Bobby, his eyes wide with surprise.

Pam opened her eyes. "Bobby, no!"

Bobby took Pam in his arms. "Pam, what do you remember?"

"All of it. I married Mark Graison when I was away."

"Ryanne, how do we know these memories aren't fake too? My God, she had a memory one time of J.R. and Katherine in her hospital room."

"Bobby, that's highly impossible. She was under hypnosis. These are real memories."

Pam cried as Bobby held her. "Then there's only one thing left to do. I have to find Mark Graison. Ryanne, make sure Pam gets home. I'm going to find that bastard and demand some answers."

Before Ryanne or Pam could say anything, Bobby had stormed out of the room.

"Well Lucas, here's the surprise I was telling you about. But you've got to promise not to tell anyone about it."

"Wow Dad. I get to go in a real live strip joint?"

Ray laughed. "It's not a strip club anymore. I bought it and I'm going to turn it into a restaurant."

"Cool!" Lucas got out of the truck and followed Ray inside.

"Bart—" Ray paused, "—Jenna, this is my son Lucas."

Lucas smiled and shook their hands. "Hi," he said.

"Bart, why don't we go over some of this stuff right now. I've got a few questions for you."

Bart nodded and he and Ray walked into the office, leaving Jenna Evans and Lucas alone.

"So, Lucas. Are you hungry?"

"Yeah."

Jenna walked over to the kitchen area. "I'm not much of a cook, but maybe I can whip up a sandwich of some sort."

' Lucas smiled. "That'd be great." The woman reminded Lucas of his own mother.

Within a few seconds, she had whipped up a grilled-cheese sandwich. "How's that taste Hon?"

"It's good."

Jenna laughed. "Well, I'm sure it's better than the cafeteria food you get at school."

Lucas was really beginning to like this woman."

"WHAT?" said J.R.

"Sue Ellen will gain control if none of the others fulfill their provisions and claim the company."

J.R. smiled. "Well I'll be damned. Why the hell would Cliff leave the company to Sue Ellen."

"They were close at one time J.R. Personally, I don't believe it will ever go that far. Afton, Lucy, Pamela Rebecca, or Pam are bound to claim it. I think there's only a chance in a million Sue Ellen will ever even know about this codicil."

"Never say never Doug." J.R. was hit with an idea and he let out a sly grin. "Well, I'm going to take off the rest of the day. I need to pay my ex-wife a little visit. Thanks a lot Doug. Your check will be in the mail."

Doug smiled. "Okay J.R. I'll see you around. Let me know if you need me."

Judy stepped away from the door just in time to reach her desk before Doug came out. J.R. followed and announced that he'd be taking the rest of the day off to tend to some important business. After he was safely out of earshot, Judy picked up the phone.

"Daphne, I need to speak with Jeremy please. Yes, this is very important." Judy smiled as she thought of all the nice things she could buy with this piece of information.

Bobby hung up the phone. He had just talked to Roberto, his own private detective and asked him to find the location of Mark Graison. As an extra incentive to find him quickly, Bobby had told him if he found him in the next twelve hours, he'd give him a large bonus. Bobby was angry as he sat in his office at NorthStar. If Mark and Pam had been married, that might mean that his marriage to Pam was invalid.

He sat at his desk by the phone, where he intended to sit until Roberto called him again with news about Mark. Bobby soon rested his head on the desk and was asleep.

J.R. hated these kind of meetings, but the payoffs were worth it. He was sitting in a dingy Dallas pool hall, waiting for Sarah to arrive. Judge Sarah O'Connor held a prominent and influential judiciary seat in Dallas, and J.R. had gotten to "know" her years and years ago when she helped him in a minor legal proceeding for Ewing Oil. It had been years since they saw each other, but she still had a youthful grace about her when she walked through the door. J.R. thought it was odd of how stark a contrast she made with the disgusting bar.

Sarah walked right over to J.R. and sat down. "J.R. Long time no see."

"Well, Sarah, how are ya honey? No less beautiful than you were all those years ago."

"I can't believe we haven't bumped into each other since then. Although, I think that's a good thing. You're pretty irresistible." Sarah was flirting with him.

"And you're pretty." J.R. retorted.

"Now J.R., what is this all about? I know you wouldn't have called me here without good reason."

"Same Sarah. You're still quick as a whip. Well darlin, I've got myself a little proposition for you." Sarah seemed to perk up at the sexual connotation of the word. "Not like that honey, but we can talk later. There's a new kid in town by the name of Todd Foster. He's April Stevens' son."

Sarah didn't register either name, so J.R. clarified. "April was married to Bobby about ten years ago, but she was killed. She was very wealthy, so all her money went to her sister Michelle. Foster is her illegitimate kid, and he's just learned April was his mother and wants her money."

"Tough case," Sarah said. "How do I fit in?"

"You've helped me out before Sarah. I need your help again."

"If I'm reading this correctly, you want me to try this case and award the money to Foster?"

"Like I said, quick as a whip."

"What do you get out of this J.R.? Or does Ewing Oil get something out of it?"

"Don't you worry about that. I have my reasons. I just need to know if I can count on you. I'm going to provide Foster with a lawyer. I just need your assurance that you make sure you try the case, and you make sure Foster wins."

"That's a tall order. I might not be able to believably swing it so he gets all of her money."

J.R. was quick to reply. "I don't care about the money. Just make sure he gets April Oil. It's one of the holdings in the estate. That's what I need."

"Ah. Things become more clear." Sarah smiled. "Well J.R., let's suppose I help you? What do I get out of it?"

"Remember that night in the cheap motel? Times it by two and that's your payment. Plus, Foster can pay you a visit. He's a young guy."

"You've got me bought. Alright, I'll get things in order. Have your lawyer bring up the suit tomorrow, and I'll make sure I'm the one to try it. Leave all the crap of justifying why Foster gets the company to me. Just make sure you get a damn good lawyer, J.R. This isn't going to be easy."

"That's why I asked the best. I'll give you a call real soon. And I'll see you even sooner." J.R. gave a sly smile, and Sarah got up from the table. J.R. could almost smell April Oil's fields now.

Bobby's phone rang, jolting him awake and for a moment he forgot where he was. When he had regained his senses, he answered it. "Hello? Bobby Ewing speaking."

"Bobby, it's Roberto."

"What do you have for me?"

"An address for Mark Graison."

"Well give it to me, I don't have all day," said Bobby, short on patience.

Roberto gave Bobby the address and Bobby jotted it down. Within seconds, he was in his car heading to Mark's house.

Pamela Rebecca was sound asleep as John Ross got out of bed and tip-toed out of the room. He needed some fresh air and thought he'd go outside and sit on the patio a bit, despite the fact that it was after midnight. Pamela Rebecca stirred a bit, but did not awaken. John Ross was relieved. He walked downstairs and turned towards the direction of the patio, stopping to flip on the floodlights before going outside.

"Hey!" came a voice.

John Ross strained his eyes against the blinding light to see Christopher shielding his eyes. "Chris?"

Christopher's eyes adjusted to the floodlights and he put down his hand and took a seat near the pool. "Hi John Ross. I didn't expect anyone else to join me out here this time of night."

"And I didn't expect to find anyone else out here."

"You and I haven't really gotten a chance to talk much lately. What's been going on with you?"

"Oh, nothing much," said John Ross looking out across the ranch. "I had been busy with Ewing Oil at one time, but I've taken a back seat since the incident in Hawaii."

"Yeah, I heard about that. You know, Megan is really growing up fast," said Christopher.

John Ross was immediately defensive and wanted to change the subject. "Yes she is. How is Karen?"

"Things are improving between us drastically, but we still have a ways to go."

John Ross still loved her—more than any other woman. He had never really cared for Pamela Rebecca, but she had "caught" him on the rebound from Karen and to top that, she was supposedly carrying his child. Melissa was a good friend—and she was definitely good in bed, but none held a candle to how he felt about Karen. "I see. Well that's good."

"You still love her don't you?"

John Ross turned away. "It was almost a year ago that I first brought her to Southfork for the first time. I'm sorry to be saying this, I know I shouldn't—but—"

"What?"

"Sometimes I wonder what might have happened had my Dad and Alan Beam not broken up the wedding."

Christopher smiled. "Then I might have been married to Pamela Rebecca now."

"Well, fate has a way of throwing us all for a loop."

"That's true. I'm getting sleepy again and I have a big day ahead of me tomorrow. Good night John Ross."

"Night Christopher."

"No! You don't understand," pleaded Pam. "I know it's after midnight but I need to see Mark Graison."

The maid rolled her eyes. "I am sure Mr. Graison is asleep and does not want to be disturbed."

"I don't care," said Pam. She pushed her way into the house leaving the stunned maid behind. Pam took the stairs, not knowing for sure where Mark's bedroom was, but somehow she was guided to it. It was there that she saw him, asleep in bed. "Mark!"

Mark Graison opened his eyes in surprise. "Pam?"

Pam ran over to Mark, angry, and began to cry. "Mark! Why didn't you tell me we were married. You knew it. You were part of Katherine's plan all along weren't you? It wasn't Jenna! She wanted to help me! You're one to blame in this. You wanted me for yourself and that's why you helped Katherine! Didn't you! DIDN'T YOU!"

The door to the bedroom flung open and Bobby entered. "Pam? What are you doing here?"

Pam ran over to Bobby and put her arms around him. A stunned Mark sat up in bed. "Bobby?"

"You're damned right Mark. It's me. After all these years we finally meet again and you're about to give me some answers. Were you married to Pam?"

Mark looked away. "Yes I was married to Pam."

"How long?" Mark didn't say anything. "Damn it Graison. Don't make me any angrier than I already am.

"From May 1990 until June 1993."

"Why did you divorce?"

"Pam…she became sick. Not physically sick, but she was mentally unstable. I had her committed to a sanitarium where she stayed for several years. I tried to forget about her because she was so sick. It wasn't until later that I found out Katherine had been drugging her! But by then it was too late."

"Too late for what?" said Pam.

"You had already spent so many years in the sanitarium. That's where you were when Christopher found you."

"Mark," said Pam. "Why all these memories of a baby?"

"Pam…"

"Please Mark, tell me!"

"You and I had a baby together!"

"You're a lying bastard!" said Bobby.

"Bobby, please," said Pam.

"It's true. His name was Alexander. He was part of Katherine's plan too. She had planned all along for us to get back together and have a child. She intended to take him for her own. See, Katherine told me she couldn't have a baby due to an accident she had. Now I know that she drugged you in an attempt to make you appear insane so I'd have you committed, which I did. She then began to move in on me and Alexander."

Bobby shook his head in disbelief. "Oh my God."

"I eventually married her in 1995. Alexander was born 1992 and Katherine and I both raised him until July 24, 1996." Mark's face suddenly went sad.

"What happened on July 24, 1996?"

"Alexander suddenly became very sick and we thought he was going to die. We took him to a nearby hospital in Paris and he died on July 24, 1996. Katherine was with him at the time and I had gone back home to get him some things." Mark's voice began to break.

Tears began to roll down Pam's face. "My God, I had a child with you Mark. He died and I don't even remember it."

"Katherine and I stayed married until this year after we returned to Dallas. I hadn't known you were getting married Pam. Katherine told me we were just coming to visit you. It was then that I found out how she drugged you and Jenna all those years."

Pam turned from Mark and Bobby and looked out the window. "I'm going to Paris tomorrow. I want to talk to Alexander's doctors. Mark, thank you for telling me all of this. Bobby, please take me home now."

Bobby nodded and led Pam out of the room, shutting the door behind him.

The sun rose over the city of Dallas as Michelle Stevens stepped off the elevator of her hotel. Bobby had called her yesterday and informed her that he would not be helping Todd with his attempt to get April's money. Knowing that, Michelle made flight plans to get the hell out of Dallas, hoping to never lay eyes on her nephew again. She was glad that he got his and wouldn't be getting a cent of her money. She had faith in Bobby, and he came through.

Michelle was about to reach the front desk when Todd strode right up to her. She was not pleased to see him, but felt assured in her position.

"Come to beg for some money? Go look elsewhere, because you're in my way." She tried to shove past him, but Todd wouldn't let her. "What the hell are you? Deaf? Shift it."

"I wouldn't pack up so soon Michelle. You might be in Dallas a while longer."

"That's what you'd like to think. A bit down now that Bobby saw you were a fraud? Good. I hope you stew in hell."

Todd produced an envelope and shoved it in Michelle's face. "Read it and weep bitch." He gave a short laugh.

Michelle was a little confused, so she opened the envelope. Inside was a subpoena, demanding her appearance in a lawsuit of Todd Foster vs. Michelle Stevens, over interest in the settlement of the estate of April Stevens. Michelle was livid, and tore the document in two.

"Oh, that's OK. Your lawyers have already been notified, and can provide you with an extra copy. I'll see you in court Auntie." Todd just gave Michelle a condescending smile and strode away. Michelle threw down her purse in frustration. Damn him!

Miss Ellie and Sue Ellen had begun a little early making preparation for this year's annual Ewing Barbecue, which was scheduled for the end of May. The two women had vowed to one another to out do anything that had ever been arranged for the event before.

As they worked at the large dinner table at Southfork, papers and notebooks strewn from end to end, Sue Ellen took notice of Lucy standing in the living room, near the bar, looking as if she was about to pour herself a drink.

"Excuse me, Miss Ellie. I'll be right back," she said as she rose from her work and intrusively made her way to the living room.

"It's … uhm … a little early in the day for bourbon, isn't it, Lucy?"

"So?" Lucy fired back at her with contempt in her voice. "What's the difference? I don't have anything important to do, anyway!"

Sue Ellen was perplexed. It was her understanding that Lucy had recently developed more to do that she ever had before in her life. "I don't understand, darlin' … I thought that Gary had given you--"

An emotionally raw Lucy cut off the words of her aunt. "That's right! My Daddy gave me control over his share of Ewing Oil. That's just the point! What do you care, anyway, Sue Ellen! You've never given a damn about me!"

Sue Ellen stood, aghast, as a voice was heard from behind.

"That's quite enough of that kind of talk, young lady. Sue Ellen has always been kind to you and you will speak to her with respect."

Jarred by the fact that Miss Ellie had, too, entered the room, Lucy's tone turned apologetic. "I'm sorry, Sue Ellen … Gramma. I guess I'm just feeling sorry for myself again."

"Well, that bottle isn't going to help you feel better anymore than it did for Sue Ellen or for your daddy," spoke Miss Ellie, matter of factly.

Sue Ellen nodded in agreement, unable to speak, her shame over drinking paralyzing her, momentarily.

"Now, what's this all about?" Miss Ellie's tone had changed considerably, now sounding much more like maternal concern.

Lucy plopped down on the sofa and sighed heavily before speaking. "It's just … I dunno, Gramma. I don't want you to think that I'm ungrateful to you or unhappy here at Southfork, but I've always dreamed about what my momma's and daddy's life is like out in California."

"But, you're afraid to tell them that because you think that they won't want you to come out there and visit them, is that it?" Chimed in Sue Ellen.

"Oh, Lucy," sympathized Miss Ellie, walking over to the sofa and taking a seat next to her granddaughter.

A tear streamed down Lucy's face. "They probably think that I'll spoil their perfect little Southern California life. I mean, they're out there raising two perfect little teenagers. What do they need with a thirty-something daughter they barely even know?"

"Lucy, look at me," Miss Ellie turned Lucy toward her and spoke. "Your mother and father love you very much, that much I'm sure of. I think that they'd be thrilled to learn that you want to come and spend time with them."

"Yeah?" Lucy questioned, incredulously. "Then why haven't I been invited?"

"Well, they have been living in a hotel, with all the earthquake damage out there," Sue Ellen interjected. "Maybe they're waiting until they move back home."

"Or," Miss Ellie offered, "maybe they don't realize that you have any interest."

"Oh, but I do, Gramma! I think about it all the time!" Exclaimed Lucy.

"Then you've got to find a way to let them know that, Lucy," suggested Sue Ellen. "And I think I know a way to start. We'll invite them here for the annual barbecue and you can talk to them with the home advantage."

"Oh, Sue Ellen, what a wonderful idea." Miss Ellie smiled. She was so very pleased at the thought of having Gary and Val come for another visit. Lucy deserved some time with her parents and Miss Ellie was going to make sure that she got it.

"Yeah …" Said Lucy, smiling and looking deep in thought.

It was nearly ten a.m. when Christopher Ewing arrived at the West Star office building. He walked to the elevator and went up to the floor where Jeremy Wendell's office was located. As he entered the outer offices, Lenore Lane, Jeremy's lovely and talented secretary, greeted him.

"Good morning sir how may I help you?" she asked.

"I'm Christopher Ewing, I am here to see Jeremy Wendell."

"I'm sorry Mr. Ewing you're not on his calendar. Are you sure you have an appointment with Mr. Wendell?"

"Yes I'm sure," replied Christopher. "What don't you just ask him?"

"Wait here a moment sir and I'll go and see if he's free to see you right now."

As Lenore Lane made her way through the office door behind her desk, Christopher couldn't help but admire her lovely figure.

As Lenore entered Jeremy's office he looked up from the papers he was reading. "What is it Lenore?" He asked.

"I'm sorry to bother you Jeremy, but there is a Christopher Ewing in the outer office and he insists that he has an appointment with you. He seems very sure but I don't show an entry on your calendar."

A grimace came across Jeremy's face.

"Do you want me to get rid of him Jeremy? He seemed so sure about the appointment?" she asked.

"No Lenore," Jeremy sighed "It's ok I'll see him. Send him in and hold my calls."

"Yes sir," she said as she went out into the outer office again.

"Mr. Ewing, Mr. Wendell will see you now. Just right through this door sir."

Christopher smiled at her and said "thank you" prior to entering Jeremy's office.

"What is it Christopher? You know I'm a busy man," said Wendell not looking up from his papers.

"As I said yesterday I think we need to talk Jeremy."

"And as I said yesterday I don't owe you any sort of an explanation," said Jeremy as he placed the papers he was reading in front of him on his desk.

"And as I said yesterday maybe I owe YOU an explanation," retorted Christopher.

"Cut the crap Ewing and get to the point."

"This is the point," Christopher said as he reached into his pocket and pulled out a copy of the letter and stock transfer certificate he had received from Kaitlin Ryan. He placed them on the desk before Wendell. "But I am more than sure you have already seen all of this.

Jeremy picked up the documents and read them. The expression on his face did not change. "Yes. I've seen this before. I know everything that goes on in my company. I also know that my dirty, little, no good, ungrateful daughter is going to pay for this."

"Careful Wendell, you're talking about your daughter now," chided Christopher.

"And what do you plan to do with the stock Ewing?"

"That is the $64,000,000.00 question now isn't it?"

"Listen Christopher, you are too young and too inexperienced in the oil business to run a company with the size and scope of West Star Oil. Let me buy the stock from you. That would make things easier on everyone. Besides you know I am going to get this stock away from you anyway."

"I may be young and inexperienced Jeremy but think of the power Ewing Oil would have if they owned the stock. Or maybe April Oil you know the company my dead stepmother owned. Then there is always the Company my late uncle Cliff owned. Or how about my daddy's company NorthStar Oil. With the addition of this much West Star stock any of those companies could put an end to you at West Star once and for all. I don't think I would have any problem finding a buyer for the stock Jeremy. I also don't think getting your West Star stock back from me may be quite as easy as you may think."

"Listen Ewing, I have taken down better people that you in my life, just ask your uncle J.R. about what it's like to deal with Jeremy Wendell."

"Maybe I should ask your daughter, she seems to have been able to take you down Wendell."

"What do you want from me then? Why are you here?" said Jeremy trying to control his anger.

"For now I don't want anything Jeremy. I just thought I owed you an explanation that's all."

"Get outta here Ewing, before I have you thrown out."

"I'll be in touch Jeremy and maybe next time it will be me having you thrown out." Christopher smiled at Jeremy and left the office. Jeremy noticed that Christopher had that same look in his eyes that J.R. might've, in a similar situation.

"Thank you very much," said Christopher to Jeremy's secretary Lenore as he left Wendell's office.

A few minutes later Jeremy Wendell's angry voice came over the intercom. "Lenore track down my ungrateful daughter and get her on the phone, also get me a Frederick Lauder on the phone. He is an attorney somewhere here in Texas. Cancel my lunch reservation at the Oil Barons Club I am no longer hungry, and hold all of my calls."

"Yes sir, right away sir," came the voice of Lenore as Jeremy released the button on the intercom.

"Pam? What are you doing?"

"I told you last night Bobby. My flight for Paris leaves in an hour." Pam threw more clothes into a suitcase, not really bothering to fold them.

"What? Why didn't you tell me you already had a flight? I'll have to hurry to get my things packed."

"No Bobby. You're not going with me. You have too much going on here in town and I don't think you should go with me."

"Pam, you know I'm not going to let you go alone."

"I won't be alone. Ryanne is going with me."

"Pam—"

"Just stay here Bobby, please. It wouldn't feel right having you there with me. I promise I'll call as soon as I get there. Ryanne will take good care of me. She is a doctor after all."

"Okay. I won't argue with you. But promise me you'll call. Let me take you to the airport."

"You don't have to do that. Ryanne is picking me up here at Southfork and we're going to the airport together. But I will call when I get to Paris."

"You're making me feel useless!" said Bobby, trying to keep a sense of humor. He was relieved that his marriage to Pam was valid, but Alexander weighed heavily on his mind.

"I love you Bobby," said Pam, kissing him.

"I love you too honey. Promise me you'll take care of yourself and hurry back."

A car horn honked outside. "That's Ryanne. I have to go Bobby. I will and I'll get back as soon as I can."

Afton Cooper was a very frustrated woman. She had searched high and low for her missing mother, but was still coming up completely empty!

God, Roy is going to kill me for this, Afton thought. How am I ever going to explain to him that I've been out searching for my mother, who's missing, but whom everyone thinks is dead???

Afton was crazed with fear for her mother's safety, but at the same time knew that when and if she found Arliss, she was going to have to take some drastic steps to insure that the obviously unbalanced old woman got the treatment that she needed.

Eric sat in his room and smiled. He looked at his watch. Any second now, Carla should be arriving at Southfork with the news for Christopher. He knew that Karen would be visiting for the day, and wanted to make sure she was there to hear the wonderful news. Carla and Christopher had gone in for a paternity test for Carla's baby. Of course, Eric could not let the test read that it was his child. So he called up a doctor friend of his, actually an old lover of his mother's. The poor man. He was married, and Eric threatened to tell his wife of the affair if he didn't help Eric out. So, grudgingly, the doctor faked the paternity test results and listed Christopher Ewing as the father. It was quite easy, especially with Christopher's rare blood type. Now Carla had the test results in her hand, and was one her way to Southfork, to show Christopher and Karen. Eric sat back and waited for Karen to call.

Christopher and Karen were on the Southfork patio, sipping some lemonade and enjoying the sun. After Christopher had returned from his meeting with Jeremy Wendell, they had gone for a ride around the ranch and had a wonderful time. They were currently lip locked when they heard a car enter the driveway. Christopher looked up, and could recognize the driver instantly.

"Oh God. It's Carla," he said.

"What is she doing here?" Karen was very upset.

"Karen, I took a paternity test the other day for Carla's baby. It's not mine. She's probably here to apologize."

"Why didn't you tell me?" Karen was a little angry. "Who cares though. You know it's not yours right? I can't believe you didn't tell me as soon as you found out."

"Well, I haven't found out yet. But I know it's not."

"Christopher! I don't----" Karen was interrupted by Carla, who strode up to the two.

"Call me a slut Christopher?" she screamed, "Well read this!" She threw a file at him. Christopher picked it up and looked at it, with Karen reading over his shoulder. It confirmed what Carla began to say.

"Congratulations, Christopher Ewing. You are certifiably and medically proven to by the father of Carla Thornton's baby." Carla smiled maliciously.

Karen's eyes welled up with tears. She looked at Christopher, visibly hurt, but she didn't speak. She just grabbed her purse, ran to her car, and drove away.

"Karen!" Christopher screamed and ran after her, but it was useless.

"Well daddy, guess you're out of luck." Carla turned her head towards Southfork. "Now why don't we go in together and pick the baby's room together."

Christopher tried to hold back a tear as he crushed the paternity results he was holding.

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