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A Fiery Night of Passion
The episode cast list and pictures will return next week, as soon as we convert them to the new format. Also coming next week, we'll have an alternate version of the episode for printing. Some of you have pointed out that you like to print the episodes to read, but the black makes the copy hard to read. We'll remedy that starting next week! Happy Halloween!
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 Southfork Ranch
“I'm your daddy.” J.R. couldn't believe he had just admitted it. It was like another part of him took over. “Why didn't you tell me before? I don't get it…” “I just found out a little while ago, myself.” That was a lie, but who could dispute it? Who really knew that J.R. knew he had a son all along---Cally knew, but no one would believe her. They'd just write it off as her paranoid ravings. Damn. Sue Ellen knew. He told her years ago in a moment of weakness. He could handle Sue Ellen though---he always had in the past. “Is that why you came and visited us?” “Yes. I wanted to meet you.” Justin flashed a brilliant smile. He ran over to J.R. and embraced him. “You're really my dad?” He asked enthusiastically. “Yep. You're a full-blooded Ewing. You look like your granddaddy.” Justin pulled away, his mouth in awe. “Wow. Do you mean it? How did you know I was your son? How did you find me?” His questions were flying at J.R. at a million miles per hour. J.R. wondered whether he had done the right thing. Should he have broken it to Justin more discreetly? Prepared him for it. The boy seemed to be handling it well---he was excited. “After your mom and I got divorced, we didn't talk for a long time. I didn't know until recently when I saw her again that you were my son. I thought that maybe she had gotten married again, and you were another man's son.” “How did you find out?” “I have ways. I looked at you though, and saw my granddaddy in your eyes. I saw me in your eyes. I looked just like you at your age.” “This is so cool!” Justin ran over and gave J.R. another bear hug. It was at that moment that Cally entered the living room. She was shaking off her coat. She had left Ray's party early---the notion of J.R. spending lots of unsupervised time with Justin worried her. She wanted to make sure that everything was ok. Seeing her son embracing her ex-husband, Cally immediately began to feel queasy. “Hey mom, guess what?” Justin said as soon as he saw her, pulling away from J.R. Cally prayed it wasn't what she thought it was. “J.R. just told me that he's my dad! Can you believe it?” Cally could believe it---she knew it. It was almost funny the way Justin said it. He was so excited, that he wasn't even thinking. J.R. just shot Cally a smile, a triumphant smile. She wanted to throw up. “OK, Justin, let's go.” “Didn't you hear what I said?” “I did. We have a lot of talking that we need to do. You're going to stay with me at the motel tonight.” “No!” Justin protested. “I want to stay here with my dad!” The brought another smile to J.R.'s face. He had done the right thing telling Justin. “Justin Randall Harper, you come with me now.” Cally shot J.R. a look that let him know she blamed him for everything. She hated him with all her being. J.R. spoke up. “Go with your mom, Justin. You guys have a lot of talking to do. We'll see each other tomorrow.” Justin looked at his father with large eyes, but took his words to heed. J.R. saw the respect that was in his eyes. It felt good. “OK….” Justin muttered. Cally was trying not to shake. This was the moment that she had been dreading for so long. “Go get your coat,” she ordered, sending Justin racing into the hall. “I'll see you tomorrow dad!” he shouted at J.R. as he exited the living room. Once alone, Cally shot J.R. another evil glance. “I can't believe you! You told me you wouldn't do this! Do you know what this is going to do to him?” “Make him happy, honey. It just did. Did you see his smile---he loves his daddy.” J.R. headed for the hallway. “Have a fun ride back.” If Cally had a gun, she would have killed him.
“Hey Christopher,” Todd said, putting his keys away. “I hardly saw you tonight. What's going on?” “Ugggh….” Christopher muttered, as to indicate that things were not up to par. “What's wrong?” He hadn't really spoken with Christopher in a while. He knew he was preoccupied. Todd had spoken with Karen on the phone earlier in the day, and she was going remarkably well. She seemed to be clean, and would be returning home shortly. Was that what was bothering Christopher? “Everything.” “Karen? Christopher, she's doing great. She should be home soon. That's great news.” Christopher remained silent, fiddling with his coat buttons. “Is it the custody trial? You've totally got it in the bag…” “Not if J.R. has anything to say about it,” Christopher quickly replied. “Oh God. What's he done now.” Todd said dryly, not surprised that J.R. would somehow get his hand involved in Christopher's activities. “He's threatening to expose Karen's problem to the press if I don't give him 10% of Weststar.” “But you don't have 10% of Weststar---you just control Kaitlin's 21%, right?” “Not anymore. He pressured me into getting Kaitlin to sign over 10%, totally in my name. I fully own it. He told me that he'd make sure that every paper in Texas knew about Karen's problem, so I'd never win custody of Megan. He'll do it too. Even if Pamela Rebecca got wind of it…” “Have you given him the 10%?” Todd interrupted, inhaling deeply on his cigarette. “No, but I'm going to have to. I've stalled long enough. I can't lose Megan. I can't let Karen's problem come out like that either. I'd never forgive myself. She'd never forgive me.” “So you haven't given him the 10%?” Todd reiterated. “No.” “Why don't you come over tomorrow? I have an idea that might resolve this situation to your advantage.” He paused, inhaling again. “I am assuming that you would like to see J.R. lose out, in some way.” “Are you kidding me? What do you have in mind?' “I don't want to jump into anything. I need to think about some things.” He paused again. “But, if everything works out, J.R. Ewing will be a very unhappy man.”
“Mom,” Justin asked quietly, “why didn't you tell me about my dad?” Cally just wanted to cry, right there. Had she hurt him? “Justin, baby, I'm so sorry. I didn't mean to hurt you or confuse you…” “Why didn't you tell me about my dad?” “Your dad and I got divorced before you were born, because he hurt me very badly. I couldn't be around him any more---I hurt so much I had to leave Texas. Sometimes that happens in marriages. They just aren't meant to be---that was the case with me and your dad.” Justin just listened silently, so Cally continued. “When I got to Florida, and you were born---that's when I met Adam. I thought that he was going to be your new daddy----he told us that he cared about us, and he DID care about us, or I thought he did. But then he left.” “I remember,” Justin said sadly. “At that point, you were a little bit older, and I thought it might be confusing for you to tell you about your real daddy. You were so sad about Adam. I was too.” “But mom, I knew that Adam wasn't my dad.” “I know, I know. I never told you about J.R. because I was so scared he was going to hurt you, Justin. I was hurt by your daddy, and I guess I was trying to make sure you weren't too.” Cally didn't want to malign J.R. totally in front of her son. After all, he was Justin's father, like it or not. She wished she could tell him the truth---of what a rotten bastard his father was, and the better to keep as far away from him as possible. “But that was a long time ago. He's nice.” Justin's words were so laced with innocence and well meaning that Cally couldn't help but get tears in her eyes. “Maybe he's changed. I'm sorry, though. I never wanted to hurt you, baby. I love you so much. Are you upset with me?” They pulled into the motel parking lot. As they entered the space, Justin said, “No, I'm not mad. I just wished you told me before. It would have been cool to have got to ride the horses and stuff before. I love you mom. I'm sorry you were so sad before, when you were married to dad. He's a real nice guy. I know.” Cally gave a little giggle. Maybe everything would be OK. Had J.R. changed? Probably not. But she had to deal with this situation. The damage had been done. Justin gave her a big kiss on the cheek and another hug. “I'm not mad at you mom. I'm just really happy that I have a dad now!” Maybe everything would be OK. Cally had a sinking feeling that things wouldn't, though.
Five minutes passed. Where was Ray? Jenna quickly threw on her clothes and went out into the main dining room. She couldn't believe that they'd have to open in the morning, and actually start serving lunch. After months of hard work, it was all finished. That didn't matter now, though. All she could think of was Ray. She was confused when she saw him in the dining room, shutting the closet door. He had his coat on. “Ray, where are you going?” she asked. “I think you need to leave.” “What?” “I have to get going….” Ray said. “We have to open tomorrow.” “Why don't you spend the night at my place?” “Jenna….this….this was a mistake.” He was making his way toward the door. He couldn't look at her. “What?! What do you mean, a 'mistake'?” “I don't want to hurt you.” “Are you telling me that meant nothing to you? Because if you are, you're doing a damn good job of hurting me.” “I don't know what to tell you.” Ray still wouldn't look at her. His eyes wandered everywhere except in contact with hers. “Tell me you love me! Because I love you.” “I can't. I can't lie to you. I'm sorry.” He walked to the door, and left. Inside, he wanted to crumble. He couldn't lead on Jenna into thinking she meant something when she didn't. It wasn't fair to her, or to Donna, or to himself. It was time to make things right. He had to be honest. Left alone in the Cattleman's Club dining room, Jenna started to cry. She grabbed a nearby glass and threw in at the door. “Damn you Ray Krebbs!” she screamed. She fell to the floor, crying.
“Yes it was, but I still don't know who won that dance contest.” Clayton smiled at his wife and took a bite of eggs. “I think that honor goes to me and my beautiful wife.” Bobby put his arm around Pam, who was sitting next to him. “Now Bobby,” Ellie said, “you know that's not fair. You and Pam could have danced all night long, as young as you two are.” Pam smiled. “She's right Bobby. I felt like I was dancing on air.” Margaret walked into the dining room and took a seat at the table. “Good morning everybody.” “Good morning Margaret. Where is your mother?” “I'm not sure. She left early this morning…probably more campaign stuff, since the election is next week.” Theresa brought Margaret a plate. Ellie spoke up. “Margaret, tonight is Halloween, what do you have planned?” “Well, my friend Beth is having a party at her house and she invited me to come over.” “That sounds like fun. Is Lucas going?” “Actually, I'm not sure, but I need to call and ask him for a favor.” Margaret excused herself from the table and went into the living room where she picked up the phone. It rang for several seconds, then Lucas picked up. “Yeah?” “Lucas, can you do me a favor?” “Hmm, maybe. What is it?” “I've got this friend who's going to the party tonight, but she doesn't have a date. I was wondering if you'd be her blind date.” Lucas was quiet for a second. “What does she look like?” “Lucas! You know that's not the most important thing. But, she's pretty and she's a really nice girl.” “Ok then, count me in. What do I need to do?” “The party starts at eight o' clock tonight. I was doing to ride over there with Beth, since she has her license, so I'll send somebody over to pick you up.” “Yeah, that'll work. I've got some stuff to do now though, so I'll see ya later.” Lucas hung up the phone.
“Hungry?” she gave a slight laugh. “Gotta get my energy up after last night.” What a night it had been. After Jack had called her on her feelings for him, she couldn't resist him. They had spent the entire evening ensconced in each other's arms. Sue Ellen had never made love like that before. It was hot—was it HOT---but it was also tender at the same time. There was feeling there. Not meaningless sex. “Well, hopefully there will be more nights like that,” she replied. “Do you really mean that?” he asked. “Of course I mean it. I wouldn't say it if I didn't mean it.” “I just want to know that this is for real. You were acting pretty loopy before, avoiding me and everything.” “Jack, I was scared. Cliff had hurt me. I didn't want to get involved in something so quickly.” “Are we involved? I guess I'd like to know---clear things up a little bit.” Sue Ellen was silent as she sipped her coffee. She placed the cup back down on the table. “Yeah, I guess we are. But I want to take things slowly---no rushing into things.” She was quick to point that out. “Don't worry,” Jack smiled. “I'm not going to be putting a ring on your finger anytime soon.” “If you did, I might have to ask you whether you had any paralyzed ex-wives lurking about,” Sue Ellen laughed. “So, I guess you're my girlfriend.” Jack's smile made her feel like a million dollars. “Yes,” Sue Ellen Ewing replied. “I guess I am.”
“I just can't seem to help it when you're in bed beside me. But...I've actually been awake for over an hour, just watching you sleep.” “So what do you have planned for the day?” Neil asked. The phone rang before Lucy could answer. Lucy rolled her eyes at the annoyance. “Hello?” Neil answered. “Neil, it's Kim.” “Hi Kimberly.” Lucy turned away and stared out the window. “Look, I know you weren't expecting me to call, but I just wanted to let you know I got back home.” “Glad you did.” “And there was another reason for me to call. My Dad wants to see Tiffany…it's been a while. Can she come stay with us out here for a while?” Neil pondered the question. “Kim, I don't know…” “She's my daughter too.” “How will she get there? I'm not going to put her on a plane all by herself.” “My Dad was going to fly to Dallas today to check on Karen. She could fly back with him.” “Well, I don't see why not. When's he supposed to get here?” “Late this afternoon, probably around four. He's stopping by the rehab center for a half-hour or so, then he has another flight leaving at six. Could you meet him at the airport around 5:45?” “Yeah, that sounds good. We'll be there.” Neil hung up the phone without saying anything else. “Guess what honey…” “What?” Lucy asked. “We're gonna have this whole place to ourselves for a little while.”
Kaitlin Ryan held 23% of the total stock, 21% of which was controlled by Christopher. Christopher actually owned 10% himself. Jeremy Wendell held 10% as well. J.R. held 12%, left over from his tenure as Weststar CEO. Todd wondered why J.R. never acted on that 12% more---did he have too many other things to deal with? That wasn't J.R.'s style. Still, with Kaitlin, Jeremy and all the other stockholders (who combined had 45% of the total stock), J.R. could be outvoted on pretty much everything. That would explain why getting 10% of Christopher would be so important---it would give J.R. a healthy 22% control. Todd was startled by the shrill ring of the doorbell. It was Christopher. He welcomed Christopher in, and offered him a drink. Christopher was tempted, but refused. He didn't want Todd on his case about drinking as well. After the incident with Sue Ellen, he knew he had to watch himself. Dallas was a small town---word got around. “So, what's your big plan?” Christopher asked finally. “OK, it's kind of complicated. Well, I guess it's not but it involved some backstory. The basic gist of it is this, though---I want you to give J.R. the 10%.” “What?” “Hold on. I want you to ask for something in return though---a percentage of Ewing Oil.” “J.R. would never do that. He'd hang the blackmail issue over my head, and tell me that gave me no cause to make any demands.” “Not if you hit him with some dirt of your own.” “Like what? I don't have anything on him.” “But I do,” Todd replied, lighting a cigarette. Christopher waited in silence for his friend to continue. “OK, Christopher, what I'm about to tell you is pretty hush-hush. You're probably not going to like a lot of what you hear, and the only reason I'm telling you is so you have some information on J.R. to nail him with---or get some of Ewing Oil that is.” “What do you have on him?” “Well, a lot. But for starters, I'd say the most salient point is that he tried to ruin Donna's campaign, and Ray and Donna's lives. I know. He told me.” “What?” Todd then presented a very abbreviated, and partially untruthful, account of J.R.'s attempts to ruin Donna. He told Christopher how J.R. confessed his plot to ruin Donna's campaign, and the whole saga with Jenna Evans and the videotape. Todd left out the part of his willing participation in the initial steps of ruining the campaign---after all, Christopher didn't need to know that. No reason for Todd to be thought less of. As well, no one could dispute him---except J.R. And no one would believe J.R. anyway, with his poor track record with truthfulness. “So you're telling me that J.R. tried to sabotage Donna's campaign, paid someone to seduce Ray, had it videotape, and was going to use that to ruin Ray and Donna, blackmail Ray for some company stock, and then see to it that Donna didn't win the election?” Christopher was in shock. That bastard! “Bingo. He told me about it, to try and recruit me into helping him with the plot to get Donna----I was working on the campaign at this point, as you know.” Another lie. It tied everything together though, and made the whole story make sense without Todd sounding like the bad guy. “Anyway, I stole the tape, gave it to Ray, the whole situation was resolved, bla, bla.” “OK, well what does that have to do with anything?” “I want you to go to J.R., and demand a percentage of Ewing Oil in exchange for the 10% of Weststar. If he tries to pull the whole blackmail routine with you, blackmail him right back.” “But I've got nothing on him.” “You've got your mouth. Threaten to tell Miss Ellie. You've got both Ray and I to back you up---and I know that Ray would go along with this one, if it came out. I may have not known him for long, but I know J.R. well enough to guarantee that he'll go along with you. He can't risk his mother looking at him poorly. She actually holds power over him.” “He'd never give up Ewing Oil.” “You're not going to get the whole thing. Bargain for like, 5%. He's got 52% of the company now---5% won't mean a thing.” “Well why should I even do this? Why don't I blackmail him to leave me alone and let me stay at Weststar?” “Christopher,” Todd looked at him, inhaling. “I know about Weststar. Dallas is a small town. They asked you to step down.” Christopher looked to the ground. He was embarrassed. Todd tried to play down the situation. “So they asked you to step down. Big deal! It would make even more sense why you'd want to get involved in Ewing Oil. Gives you reason to ask J.R.---he won't suspect something is up.” “But I don't want to get involved with Ewing Oil, at least not now. Do you want the 5%? Is that what this is about?” “Personally, I don't want it. But there is someone who does---Sue Ellen.” Christopher gave Todd a confused look. “Sue Ellen is trying to take majority control away from J.R. She's already managed to get 8% away from him. Another 5% or so could make a major difference.” “How? J.R. would still have majority control.” “If you looked at it from the vantage point of J.R. versus Sue Ellen. But don't forget there are other parties involved here---Jack and Lucy. They'd side with Sue Ellen over J.R. any day.” “Good point.” “Getting her that 5% would contribute to seeing J.R.'s downfall at Ewing Oil,” Todd rationalized. Christopher had to admit that he had a point. But there was something else that made him very attracted to Todd's plan. Getting Sue Ellen 5% might get her off his back for a while---about the drinking and everything. It certainly couldn't hurt. And he would like to see J.R. suffer. “You've got a really good point.” “So go for it? Let the son of a bitch get a taste of his own medicine.” Christopher got up. “You've convinced me. I'll meet with him on Monday and level the threat. Cross your fingers that it goes well.” He made his way towards the door. “Call me immediately after you talk to him. Just be firm---don't back down. He'll have to go along with you.” “I will. Thanks Todd. I'm probably going to owe you once again.” Christopher left. Todd shut the door behind him, and walked over to put out his cigarette. He told J.R. that he screwed with the wrong person.
Afton shot her a nervous glance, as if to warn her that she had promised not to tell Cliff. “What're you two looking like that for?” Cliff asked. Afton covered it up. “Well, I'm just a little nervous that's all. My first show as hostess of Dallas Dish airs today, so you guys just better get used to me being mobbed by my adoring fans.” “Oh. You know Afton, I was just thinking last night…” “Yes?” “I think I'll see about getting a physical therapist to stay with us for a while. That way, you can get all the attention you need so you can get better faster.” Afton sipped her coffee, not saying anything. She definitely didn't think that was a good idea. After all, she didn't think she'd be able to fool an expert. “Oh Cliff, I don't think so.” “Why not?” “Well, it's just not a good idea, that's all. I don't like the idea of a total stranger living here with us.” “Hmm, maybe you're right.” Cliff looked at his watch, took a swallow of coffee, and then stood up. “We'll talk about this later. “Donna and I have a ton of last minute stuff for the campaign to go over.” Afton frowned. “I was hoping we could all spend the day together as a family. It's such a cool fall day…we could go for a nice stroll on the walking track or something.” “Sorry Afton, but I owe this to Donna. I think she's got a great chance of winning, but I need to up that chance just a little bit before the election. Hope you understand.” “Don't worry Mom, you and I can go shopping or something.” “Yeah, you do that.” Cliff opened up his wallet and took out a credit card, which he slid across the table to them. “Make that plastic smoke.” He waved at them and left the house. “Well…” Afton took the credit card. “Maybe this day isn't a total loss.” Pamela Rebecca sat down her coffee cup a little too hard, on purpose. Afton looked at her. “What?” “Do you really love Dad, or did you just come back for his money?” “Look Miss Holier-than-Thou, of course I love your father.” “I was just thinking how funny it was. When you divorced him, you had no idea he owned a multi-million dollar oil company. But now that you know he does, it's strange that you're trying to win back his favor.” “Pamela Rebecca Cooper, don't talk to me like that anymore. What kind of person do you think I am? I can back because I love you father and because I wanted to stop him from making a horrible mistake by marrying Sue Ellen Ewing. And don't forget, you were the one who stalled the wedding after I called you, so I could get there in time.” “Sue Ellen was wrong for Daddy. Don't get me wrong Mom…I want you and Daddy back together so much, but I just don't want to see him get hurt again.” “See him get hurt? He's the one that slept with that little tramp, Lucy Ewing, in the first place.” “And you shot him…” “He was drunk and he was going to hurt me! You should have seen the rage in his eyes. I had no choice but to shoot him—in self defense.” “So you're both guilty as sin.” Pamela Rebecca leaned back in her chair. Afton stared at her for a moment, then sighed. “Why don't we talk about your life, dear daughter.” “Not much to it…I love John Ross with all my heart and I'll do anything to get him back.” “I rest my case. Hey, it's almost time for my show.” “This, I can't wait to see.” Pamela Rebecca walked into the living room and turned on the television. Afton followed her, leaving her chair behind. Pamela Rebecca stared at her. “God, that just freaks me out.” “Get over it.” Afton took a seat on the couch, next to her daughter. “Looks like they did a nice job of editing your picture into the old montage.” Afton's eyes slanted in disgust. “You would think they could have filmed a new opening sequence instead of doing that.” Afton watched with a slight bit of embarrassment as she rolled out onto the stage. But, the audience loved it…they all felt sorry for her, which is just what Roy had said. She just hoped Cliff would feel the same.
As she walked through the central concourse of Dallas's largest shopping plaza she wondered what all the commotion was about. A large stage had been erected in the middle of the concourse, with a podium in the center. Obviously a speaker was there. Jenna quickly read the banner that hung above the podium:
Jenna couldn't help but give a dry laugh at the irony of the situation. She had no desire to see Donna. It would probably just sicken her more. SHE was the reason that Ray was acting the way he was. Couldn't get over her. He had cheated on her, end of story. Why didn't he just deal with it? Why did SHE have to get caught in the crossfire and get hurt? It made her blood boil. The crowd was getting thick around her. One woman pushed her! Photographers were snapping pictures of Donna, whom Jenna could see was standing about twenty feet away, shaking hands. What did that woman have that she didn't, making Ray drool over her? It infuriated her. She made a dash for the restroom, which was about forty feet away. Thankfully, it was empty. Jenna washed her hands in the sink, and started to dabble the tears that were forming in the corner of her eye. Outside the restroom, Donna Dowling tried to catch her breath. The crowd was enormous. It was the largest speaking engagement she had done since her campaign started. God Bless Cliff, Donna thought to herself. He was really turning this campaign around, even in the week he had been working on it. She was ahead in the polls! She silently prayed that her winning streak would over for a few more days, when the election would be held. Donna had said her official goodbyes to the public, and managed to duck into the alcove where the restroom was. She looked at her watch. She had to make another pit stop at her campaign office before going home. Margaret had a big party that she was going to, and Donna wanted to make sure she was there to help her daughter get ready. It was important not to let Margaret think she was being ignored in the midst of the campaign. It was probably hard enough, the ordeal with Ray. God knows how Lucas was taking it. Margaret was a survivor though. Like her mother. Donna walked into the restroom, and Jenna had to keep from her jaw dropping. Donna's face immediately sensed recognition. Jenna wondered---did she know who I was? “Hi,” Donna said in a friendly manner. “You work at the Cattleman's Club, right? With Ray Krebbs? I think I saw you there last night.” Jenna mumbled, “yes.” Donna didn't know who she really was then. “That was a wonderful party. The restaurant is so impressive.” Why was Donna being so damn nice? Jenna wanted to hate her—she did hate her. She had Ray ga-ga over her! Jenna shot Donna a vindictive look. This was not lost on Donna. She was tired, and her inhibitions were down from fatigue. Normally, she would have ignored it, but not today. “What's the problem?” “You.” “Excuse me? I don't even know you're name.” “Jenna---Jenna Evans. I'm the woman that slept with Ray.” Donna's eyes widened and her mouth dropped. THIS was the woman that Ray had slept with? HER! “Well, I hope you're proud of yourself,” Donna said, washing her hands. She was not going to let this woman get to her. “I hope YOU'RE proud of yourself. You let Ray slip away, and that was one stupid move lady. You know, for someone who's so smart and running for mayor and everything, you're really dumb. Ray is wonderful.” Now she was letting her pain speak. “Really? I must have lost out. He is wonderful—so wonderful that he hurt me pretty bad by spending the night with you,” Donna said matter-of-factly while drying her hands. She really didn't want to get into this, but this woman was starting to push some buttons. “Well, it doesn't matter anyway. We're together now. In fact, after the party last night, we had our own little celebration, if you know what I mean. Ray is great.” Jenna was determined if someone else wasn't going to hurt as much as she was. Donna shut her eyes, as if to block this out. Why did he keep having to hurt her? It was like a pain that was never going to get better. “I don't want to hear this,” she stated quietly, and made her way for the door. “Don't bother, lady.” Jenna quickly darted for the door herself. “I just wanted to let you know what a screw-up you made. Ray and I are in total bliss. Ask him yourself, about last night that is. He can't dispute that it was wonderful.” Jenna quickly opened the door and stormed out, slamming the door behind her. Donna was left alone in the restroom, tears in her eyes. Why was she letting Ray get to her? Did she still love him? If she didn't, why would she be so upset at this. She thought maybe he'd have some remorse at his action, but it didn't appear so. He spent the night with that girl! Donna's silent tears were interrupted by a very old woman that came into the bathroom. “What's wrong, dear?” she asked, concerned. She didn't seem to notice who Donna was. “Nothing, nothing.” Donna smiled, and tried to be dismissive about her problem. “Nonsense. Why's a beautiful lady like you crying in a bathroom? Man problems?” “I guess so,” Donna replied. “He hurt you bad?” “Yeah,” Donna replied, trying to hold back the tears. “Well, I just remember what my mother always used to tell me: You reap what you sow. He'll get his, don't you worry.” Donna was not comforted by her words, though. Why did she feel like she was the one being punished?
J.R. was sitting on the patio, sipping some iced tea and reading some documents. He got up when he saw Justin get out of the car. “Hey!” he called out, happily. Justin ran over to him and gave him a hug. “Hey dad…you don't mind if I call you that, do you?” J.R.'s smile increased. “Not at all.” “Cool.” Cally couldn't help but squirm. She was still very uncomfortable with this, but she didn't know what to do. “Hey dad, can I go check out the barn?” “Sure. I think your uncle Bobby is in there, actually. Go and say hi….Oh, but Justin, don't tell him the big surprise. I'm going to save that for later, ok?” “I won't.” Justin ran off, beaming. Left alone, Cally immediately railed into J.R. once Justin was out of earshot. “I can't believe you did this. I don't know what he's thinking, J.R. I think this really confused him.” “What the hell are you talking about, woman? He's happy as a clam.” “You only see things that you want to see.” “I see everything. I'm my daddy's son---remember that.” He sipped his iced tea. “Now we got some talking to do about my son's future.” “Don't you dare start giving me orders on how to raise MY son.” “OUR son, and don't forget it. First order of business is when y'all are going to move to Dallas.” “Excuse me?” “You're moving to Dallas. I won't have my son living in some trumped up shack in Hickville, U.S.A.” “We're staying where we are.” “Oh no you're not, honey.” “In fact, I just dropped him off to say goodbye---and you should be pretty happy I had the decency to do that. We have to go back home tonight.” “And what if I don't want you to?” “I really don't care, J.R. Justin has a band rehearsal tomorrow morning that he needs to be at. He plays band y'know, but I bet you didn't know that, did you? You don't know anything about him.” “Like I said before, I'm gonna know everything about him and he's gonna know everything about me.” “You can see him. He knows you're his father---I'm not going to deprive him of that. But don't think this gives you an excuse to rule his life OR mine.” “I don't give a damn about you darlin, but my boy sure as hell becomes my top priority. First order of business is to get him here.” “What?” “You heard me. He's moving to Southfork, with me.” “No way. You wouldn't do that.” “Watch me, Cally. I'm suing you for full custody. And you know I'll win. Dallas is MY town. Hell, I own the South.” “You wouldn't do that to me. After everything you've put me through…” “Like I said, this isn't about you. This is about my son. He's going to live at Southfork. He's a Ewing. He belongs here.” J.R. looked at his watch. “Ooops…I didn't even notice the time. I've got to get into Dallas. Got a meeting with some doctors about a sick friend of mine. See---I AM a humanitarian. Courts will love that. Now if you'll excuse me, I'm going to say goodbye to my son---for now.” “You'll get him over my dead body,” Cally stated. “Whatever it takes, Cally. Whatever it takes.”
He looked at the number he had taken from Afton's address book. He had only met Bryan Safi once, a few years ago, shortly after he and Afton had married. Bryan's wife, Barbara, was Afton's best friend from high school. Bryan was also one of North America's foremost drilling experts. If anyone could make a site strike oil and strike it big, it was Bryan. With Donna almost guaranteed to win the election, Cliff had other things to think about—namely, his little drilling project at Southfork. There was oil there, and a lot of it. But the oil wasn't the main thing that Cliff was after, although the money that it would reap was a big chunk of his desire to drill. No, it was J.R. and seeing the look on J.R.'s face once the crew started drilling. It would crush him. Cliff couldn't help but smile. He had leveled the threat against J.R. a few weeks ago, threatening to start drilling if J.R. leaked the story about Donna and Ray's breakup to the papers. If Donna won, and Cliff did start drilling, J.R. could always report the story again. Cliff supposed this wouldn't work, though. The papers wouldn't be THAT interested in undocumented gossip, especially if Donna was mayor. As well, Cliff suspected that his comment, or threat, to tell Miss Ellie about J.R.'s role in such a report scared J.R. off. He dialed the number to the Safi residence in Alaska, where Bryan often headed drilling projects in the wilderness. Being a Saturday, Cliff assumed he would be home. “Hello?” Bryan luckily picked up. Cliff was not that fond of Barbara. “Bryan? Hey, this is Cliff Barnes. From Dallas----Afton's Cliff.” “Oh hey! What's going on? I haven't talked to you forever!!” “Nothing much, same old, same old.” Cliff made casual chit-chat for the next few minutes, rather than go straight to the punch. He talked about Pamela Rebecca, and how she had a daughter. He explained that he and Afton were happy. Business was well. Of course, he left out that fact that in the last year he had been shot by his wife, almost blown up, kidnapped by his ex-mother-in-law, faked his own death, almost got married to another woman, and various assorted other activities that had made life difficult for the last year. Bryan didn't need to know that, though. Might scare him off. After the polite talk prerequisite had been fulfilled, Cliff cut down to business. “Bryan, I actually have a possible business proposal, if you're interested.” “I'm always interested when it comes to money,” Bryan laughed. “Well, I've just gotten a piece of land down here—in Dallas—that is pretty oil rich. At least, the tests say it is. I'd like you to take a look at it, though. I'd trust a friend over anyone else.” “Cliff, I'd be happy to do that. You don't have to pay me---it's my pleasure.” “Well, if it turns out to be a goldmine, I want you to drill on it, if you're free. You're the best of the best.” “Well, thanks. Let's take this one step at a time---first we need to find out if you've got oil on that land. Let me talk to Barbara. I'll have her call Afton, and we can schedule a visit. We'll talk more there. Sound good?” “Sounds great. Let me give you our new number.” Cliff did so, and thanked Bryan again before hanging up. Donna winning the campaign. Drilling for oil across from Southfork. Cliff could just see J.R.'s reaction now. It would be priceless. What would be ever more priceless was knowing that HE had won, for once.
“Melissa, I'm glad you stopped by.” Melissa smiled at Miss Ellie. “Hello Mrs. Farlow. Is John Ross home?” “No, as a matter of fact, he isn't. John Ross left earlier this morning with Gary. They had some work to do on the construction project.” “Oh.” Melissa frowned. “Well, there goes my plans.” “What did you have planned?” “Well, I just wanted to spend the day with John Ross, since I had the day off. But, since he's busy, I guess I'll go back to my apartment.” “Nonsense. Melissa, I've wanted to get to know you a bit better. Why don't you spend the day here at Southfork with me?” “I don't suppose it would hurt. I don't really have anything else to do.” “Great, then it's all settled. It's such a nice day outside though…I'd hate to spend it cramped up inside. Why don't we go for a walk?” Melissa thought that wasn't a half bad idea. She could use a little fresh air and sunshine. “I'd like that.” “Wonderful. Just give me a second to go change into some more comfortable shoes, then we can be on our way.” Melissa smiled at her and took a seat on the sofa as Ellie left the room.
Afton Cooper was on TV? He couldn't believe his eyes. She was hosting a television show…Dallas Dish. The man leaned forward and looked closely at the television. If she had her own TV show, then that would mean she also had money. “What're you watchin'?” A blonde woman, dressed in a tight mini-skirt and furry sweater walked into the room. “Happy Halloween Babe. You and me are gonna have that nice wedding we've always wanted.” Bambi threw herself at her boyfriend, squealing with delight. “Are we gonna get one of them fancy mutli-layered wedding cakes?” “Anything you want Honey. Pack your bags because we're goin' to Dallas.” “Dallas? What kind of place is Dallas to get hitched? You said I could have anything I want and I want Hawaii!” The man laughed. “Don't worry. We'll have Hawaii, but first we gotta do Dallas.”
“Sounds fantastic. John Ross, did you and J.R. ever make up?” John Ross laughed dryly. “Like that's going to happen. I could really care less what he thinks of me at the moment.” Gary's intercom buzzed. “Yeah?” he answered. “Mr. Ewing, Martin Felkins is here to see you.” “Okay Natasha, give me a couple of minutes, then you can show him in.” “Who is this Felkins guy?” John Ross asked. “He's here to make sure our business is Y2K compliant…never can be too sure.” “Need me at the meeting?” “Sure, if you don't have anything else to do.” The door opened and Natasha showed in Martin Felkins, who shook hands with John Ross and Gary. “Can I get anything for any of you?” Natasha smiled and clasped her hands together. “Nothing for me Natasha,” Gary said politely. “Mr. Felkins?” “No thanks.” John Ross shook his head too, and Felkins took a seat next to him. “I'm really glad you're aware of the Y2K problem,” Felkins pointed out. “And it's my job to make sure you are totally compliant…” John Ross leaned back in his chair. This was going to be a long meeting.
Ellie looked over to her left where the Southfork river was flowing beneath the trees. Red, orange, and gold leaves lazily fell into its swift course as Ellie answered. “Yes, Jock and I nearly divorced after Takapa.” Melissa folded her arms across her chest and continued to walk. “It sounds like Jock was a very stubborn man.” Miss Ellie laughed. “Men just don't come any more stubborn than Jock Ewing…but he was a great man. Jock had another side. He could be strong and stubborn, but inside, he was a loving man.” “John Ross never really told me how Jock died.” “He was in South America on business, when his helicopter crashed into a lake. They never found his body. Years later, a man by the name of Wes Parmalee came to Dallas, claiming to be Jock, but he was proven to be a fraud.” “How awful.” Ellie turned to Melissa and smiled at her. “Now, it's your turn. Tell me a little bit about yourself.” “Well, there's not much to tell really. But my family never had much…you know, we kind of struggled to live from paycheck to paycheck. Things got worse when my brother, Jake, was killed by a gang. After that, we moved back to Dallas and stayed with Uncle Harry.” “And then you joined the force?” “Yeah. My brother's murder really drove me to do it. I felt like I could stop that from happening to someone else.” “That must have been awful for your family, to lose Jake.” “It was. My father never really forgave himself for Jake's death. He and Jake had gotten into a fight. Jack took the car and left…about three hours later, we received word that he'd been shot…” Melissa's words gave way to tears. Miss Ellie put her arm around her. “Sshh.” “I'm okay. I just haven't talked about it in a while…I haven't even told John Ross.” “It's good to talk about things sometimes, rather than keeping it all to yourself.” “I know, but I just don't open up to a lot of people.” Melissa decided to change the subject. “It's getting a little cold out here, why don't we start back?” “That's a good idea; it is getting a bit chilly.” On their way back to the ranch, Melissa had an idea.
He hadn't bought for one second, the lie she had told about it being due to her work. Maybe that was why he found himself in her apartment now—maybe he was looking for answers. Whatever he was looking for, the ringing of Mandy's phone interrupted it. He debated for a second about whether or not to answer it. Finally, he picked it up. “Hello?” “H…” There was a silence at the other end of the phone. Whoever it was had been surprised to hear him answer the phone. “Who is this?” he asked suspiciously. There was nothing but silence, though J.R. could detect the sound of faint breathing. “Is anyone there? Look, I know somebody's there. Who is it?” Whoever it was, hung up the phone, leaving J.R. perplexed. Now, he intended to find out what was taking Doug Avant so damned long with this investigation. J.R. took one last look at the apartment, then left.
Meet me in the hayloft for a surprise. Smiling to himself, John Ross switched off the room lights and made his way back through the house. The night air was cool and the stars twinkled brightly above as he walked across the dark ranch. Through the distance, he could detect a faint flickering light coming from the hayloft of the Southfork barn. A few minutes later, he was climbing up the ladder into the loft. Once up, he looked around. “Oh my God, Melissa?” The entire loft was decorated in pumpkins, candles, and orange streamers. Melissa was sitting on a bale of hay and she was wearing silky red negligee. “Happy Halloween Baby.” “Wow, did you do all of this yourself?” “You bet I did. It's a little cool over here…I could definitely use a guy like you to warm me up.” He smiled slyly and threw off his jacket, joining her on the hay. “I can't believe you'd go through all this trouble. God Melissa, I love you so much.” “Then you'd better come a little closer…it's Halloween you know…anything could happen tonight.” “Yeah, well hopefully the witches aren't out flying yet. I didn't see Rebecca flying around on her broom on my way home.” “You devil.” John Ross shot her a devilish grin. “Why don't I show you how much of a devil I can be?” Melissa exhaled deeply. “We're going to light up this place tonight.” “We'll be lucky if it doesn't go up in flames.” Melissa kissed him and he put his arms around her. He leaned back and let the negligee's straps slip from her shoulders. She unbuttoned his shirt and it fell to the hay, then he kissed her again, more deeply this time. The wind picked up and the candles flickered as John and Melissa made love.
“What's up Maggie?” Lucas was holding a can of beer in his hand. “Lucas Krebbs!” Margaret snatched the beer can from his hand. “You are too young to be drinking. We all are. If Dad found out about this…” “Like he cares? He's off at his stupid club all the time and all your mom ever does is work on her dumb old campaign. Besides, what's good enough for my Dad is good enough for me.” Lucas reached for the beer can, but Margaret held it tightly. Finally, he let go and it tipped backwards, spilling on Margaret. She looked down at her shirt. “Look what you did! Now how am I going to explain this to Mom?” Margaret was near the point of tears. Lucas apologized. “I'm sorry, I don't want you to get in trouble.” “Yeah, well that's exactly what's going to happen now! Oh my God, there's Jill.” “Who?” “Your date.” Lucas smoothed out his hair and turned around to see a pretty blonde walk into the room. Jillian spotted Margaret and walked over to her. “Hey Margaret. I was able to make it, by the hardest.” “Great!” “So, where's this blind date I'm supposed to be meeting?” “Right here.” Margaret touched Lucas on the shoulder. “This is my brother, Lucas. Lucas, this is Jillian Renfro.” Jill smiled. “Hi Lucas. I think I've seen you around at school. Wait a minute, aren't you in my algebra class?” “Yeah, I think so. Would you like to dance?” “Sure!” Lucas took Jill's hand and led her out to where everyone else was dancing. Margaret looked at the stain on her shirt and smelled of it—it reeked of alcohol. She wondered how she was going to explain this one to her mom. “Hey Margaret.” “Betsy? I didn't know you were going to be here.” Betsy Ewing smiled. “Beth and I are pretty good friends. She invited me.” “Is Bobby here?” “Yeah, he's here somewhere. Wait a minute. Margaret, is that beer on your shirt?” “I had a little accident.” “Your Mom is gonna kill you! Uh oh…” Margaret noticed that Betsy was staring at something. “What is it?” “Looks like Lucas is having a nice little argument with some blonde.” “Oh no.” Margaret turned around to see Jill and Lucas both yelling at each other. “You think I'm a nerd?” Jillian said defensively. “Well you're a little troublemaking…” “Hey, what's going on?” Margaret asked. “My 'date' here just accused me of being a nerd.” Jillian was upset. “You know what Margaret? Your idea here really sucked.” Lucas stormed away. Jill looked at Margaret apologetically. “I'm sorry that got so out of hand. I said a few things to him too.” “It's okay, really. My brother can be such a brat sometimes. I'm sorry this happened.” Betsy spoke up. “Okay, everybody get back to what you were doing. The show's over.”
Mandy lay on the bed, still unconscious. She was badly bruised and there were tubes surrounding her. The woman pulled a chair next to the bed and sat down, looking at all the machines that Mandy was hooked to. “God Mandy, I didn't know it was so bad.” The woman's hair was colored similar to Mandy's, but it was shorter. She took out a tissue and blotted her eyes. “But you've got a lot of good reasons to get better.” She took Mandy's hand. “Which is why I'm here. I don't know what to do. You were so close to telling J.R. everything, but then you had the accident. I feel so lost…I know how much you care about him. Should I tell him what you were going to tell him? He has a right to know…and it might make both stronger if he knew…” Mandy continued to lay still, her eyelids not moving. The woman squeezed her hand. “I wish you could talk…I wish you could tell me what to do. But for now, I'll keep quiet. You'll recover soon…then you can tell him yourself.” She turned and walked to the door, then flipped off the lights. “Sleep well Mandy.”
Melissa felt the heat and pushed John Ross away. Upon seeing the fire, she sat up. “Oh my God, John Ross, the hay is on fire.” John Ross turned around, his eyes growing wide. The fire had rapidly engulfed the area around the ladder and was quickly spreading toward them. The heat was already intense and the smoke was growing thick. “Okay, we've gotta get out of here—and fast.” He grabbed his shirt from the nearby bale of hay and looked around for a source of water. Realizing there wouldn't be one, he doused it with champagne and handed it to Melissa. “Put this over your mouth and nose.” “What about you? How can we get out? The ladder is burning John Ross!” Melissa had completely lost her cop instincts and had no idea what to do. The roof of the barn had caught fire and a there was a loud crash from above as a piece of the flaming roof broke loose and came careening toward them. It struck John Ross across the back and knocked him to the ground. “NO!!” Melissa screamed. The rest of the dry loft quickly went up in flames. “You have to jump Melissa…” “Not without you.” Her instincts began to take over and she was running on autopilot as she grabbed his arm and pulled with all of her strength. The flaming rubble fell to the side and she used the wet shirt to beat out the flames that had spread to John Ross' pants. He coughed and spoke in a hoarse whisper. “Come on.” They both turned to see the opening of the loft engulfed in flames—there was no way out.
“Learn what?” “That drinking is bad!” “Well gee, that was really original. Drinking is bad.” “Look at what it does to people! I've heard about Aunt Sue Ellen and all she went through.” “So you think everybody who picks up a can of beer is a drunk? No…ever heard of social drinking? So what's a little beer every once in a while?” “Please don't drink. Mom and Dad will find out.” “Donna is NOT my mom. My mom died a year ago tonight.” “Oh my God Lucas, I didn't know.” “Yeah? Well now you do. My Mom committed suicide and then not two weeks later, Dad went and found your Mom.” “I had no idea…no one ever told me how she died.” Lucas' voice turned to a whisper. “My Dad never even gave me a chance to miss her, before he tried to shove Donna down my throat.” “I'm sorry Lucas.” Lucas nodded and walked outside, where he gazed up at the stars. “Mom, I love you so much. I…I want you back.” Lucas blotted his eyes with his sleeve. “I want you to come back and make Donna go away.” Lucas was embarrassed at how he was babbling like a child, but he couldn't help it. “Please…please come back.” A twig snapped somewhere out in the darkness. Lucas strained his eyes to see what it was. “Anybody there?” The only sound was the wind through the trees and the occasional cry of a hawk to its prey. Back inside, a clock chimed twelve times. Lucas stood up. “Hello? Mom?” Exactly one year after she supposedly hung herself in Southfork, Jenna Wade Krebbs walked out into the clearing and stood before her son.
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