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And the Mayor Is?
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. Sorry for the delays with all of this, but things have been hectic this week!
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 Southfork Ranch
“Hey Theresa,” Jack said, still clutching Sue Ellen's hand. They were going to make the announcement about their involvement to the family. The longtime Ewing maid did not seem to take notice of Sue Ellen and Jack holding hands. If she did, she didn't comment. Lord knew she's seen more, Jack thought to himself. “Is John Ross around?” Sue Ellen asked Theresa. “No Mrs. Ewing, you actually just missed him. He left about two minutes ago to meet Ms. McSween.” Sue Ellen got a little frown. Perhaps it was best to tell John Ross one-on-one. Her chain of thought was interrupted by the loud stomp of J.R.'s feet as he entered into the hallway from the foyer. He greeted Theresa, who scurried out. J.R. immediately noticed Jack and Sue Ellen. Sue Ellen just grasped Jack's hand tighter. “Well look at this,” J.R. nearly whistled, “I've never seen such an odd pairing: the drunk and the drifter. Sounds like the name of a soap opera to me.” “Very original, J.R.” Jack muttered. “I could say the same thing about yourself. You always go after Barnes' leftovers?” “J.R., shut up.” Sue Ellen shut her eyes in frustration. “So you two an item now?” J.R. quickly bounced back. “If it's not obvious, yes” Sue Ellen replied, still frustrated. “Seems like you and the town bicycle have a lot in common, honey.” It seemed that comment would be the final say on the matter, as Miss Ellie and Pam were coming down the stairs. Sue Ellen and Jack let go of each other's hands. They both believed it more proper to make their announcement to the whole family. “Mama, is everyone home?” J.R. asked. “Almost everyone. I think John Ross just left, and the kids are all at a Halloween party.” Damn. J.R. really wanted John Ross to hear his announcement. He supposed it couldn't hurt to tell him in person, though. “Well, gather everyone around. I have an announcement to make.” Pam had to control herself from rolling her eyes. Lord knew what he had in store for them. Five minutes later, most of the family was gathered in the living room: J.R., Sue Ellen, Jack, Miss Ellie, Clayton, Bobby, Pam, Gary, Valene, Donna and Christopher. “Where's Lucy?” Bobby asked Valene. “She's over at Neil's,” Valene responded. J.R. took his place in front of the whole family. “I have something to tell everyone. I wish John Ross was here to hear this, but I'll have to tell him later. It's important that this be said now.” “Are you getting married again?” Bobby asked sarcastically. Pam tried to stifle a giggle. “Very funny, Bob. No. I've just found something out. I have another son.” Miss Ellie's jaw dropped. Pam looked at Bobby. Donna seemed unfazed. Sue Ellen was in shock---was he talking about Justin? “What do you mean you have another son?” Gary said. “Justin. Cally's boy. He's my son. I found out this weekend.” J.R. immediately looked to Sue Ellen to see if she would contest this. Their eyes locked for a moment. It was an intense stare. Sue Ellen debated contesting the statement for a moment. Could that have ramifications on Cally? It couldn't hurt to have that on J.R., hold the knowledge that he knew about Justin long ago over his head…..If anything, she could use it to shut him up about she and Jack. She decided to remain silent. “J.R., I can't believe this. Have you spoken about this with Cally?” Miss Ellie said, almost a bit concerned. “Yes. Justin was told this weekend. It was time y'all knew as well.” “So she was pregnant when she left Dallas?” Bobby asked. Almost immediately after, Valene asked “Why didn't she tell anyone about Justin? He seems awful sweet.” “She left without telling me. I knew she was pregnant, but she led me onto believe it was James's. I don't blame her. Our marriage was pretty bad towards the end.” He directed his eyes towards Miss Ellie. “I knew I was awful to her years ago, mama. That's why she never told me. She was scared too.” “Well what is she thinking now?” Clayton asked. “We renewed contact at the wedding a few weeks ago. It's all come out since then. I'm a part of his life now, and she hasn't contested that.” Sue Ellen, Donna, Valene and Pam all doubted this statement, but each woman decided to keep their thoughts to themselves. Miss Ellie was still blown away by the whole revelation. “I just wish I had known. That boy is my grandson….” “He'll be back, mama. He's going to visit a lot. You'll have plenty of time to get to know him---all of you will. He's a great kid---he's a lot like daddy was, real rambunctious.” That seemed to strike a chord with Miss Ellie. “Well, I'll definitely have to give Cally a call and tell her that she is welcome here anytime. In fact, I'll insist she comes back soon,” Miss Ellie said. But before anything else could be said on the subject, Theresa rushed into the living room, out of breath. “Mrs. Farlow…the barn…it's on fire…” “What?” Christopher screamed. “I called the fire department, but I think, I think I heard someone screaming…I sent Lionel out to help…” “Oh My God, John Ross!” Sue Ellen screamed. She made a dash for the door. The whole family followed.
“Mom?” Jenna stepped one step closer to him and extended her hand. Lucas stared at her, baffled. Why wasn't she speaking? “Mom? Is that you?” A door slammed and Lucas turned in its direction. Margaret was standing on the porch, looking out into the dark yard. She shielded her eyes against the glare of the porch light. “Lucas?” she called. Lucas turned back to his mother, but she was gone—there was no trace of her. Visibly shaken, Lucas took one more look, then walked back to where Margaret was standing. “I think I need to get home Maggie…I had too much to drink.” “Yeah, I think so too.” Margaret put her arm around her brother and helped him back to the house. Once inside, she addressed the crowd. “It's been fun, but Lucas and I need to be going.” “How are you going to get home?” Margaret noticed that some other people were leaving. “We'll find a ride.” She waved and followed Lucas outside, noticing that he paused to stare off into the woods next to the house.
“We've gotta jump, or else we'll both die.” John Ross took her hand in his and pulled her to him, holding her. “I love you John Ross…if anything goes wrong, don't forget that.” The two shared a brief kiss, then John Ross motioned toward the opening. For a moment, there was a brief break in the wall of flames and John Ross pulled Melissa through it. They jumped, clasping their hands tightly together. Both hit the ground with bone-jarring force, as the roof of the barn collapsed into a flaming pile of rubble. Melissa was on the verge of losing consciousness, but the fresh night air filled her lungs and made her painfully aware of her surroundings. She ached, but turned her attention towards John Ross, who didn't appear to be conscious. She cradled his head in her arms and saw that he wasn't breathing, then performed mouth-to-mouth. Melissa checked to see if she had been successful, but he still wasn't breathing. “For God's sake! Somebody help me!” she screamed out into the lonely night. Seconds later, three of the ranch hands came running to her, still rubbing their eyes sleepily. “What the hell happened?” one of them shouted. “Just call a damned ambulance!” Melissa continued to perform mouth-to-mouth. Finally, John Ross coughed and his breathing resumed. “Oh thank God!” John Ross opened his eyes. “Melissa?” “I'm here. We made it out…together.” Sue Ellen, Bobby, and the others soon reached the site of the fire, wide-eyed and breathless. Bobby ran to Melissa. “What happened?” She began to speak, but her voice was raspy. “We were in the hayloft and it caught fire. We had to jump.” One of the ranch hands informed them that the ambulance was on its way. “Hang on John Ross.” Sue Ellen squeezed his hand.
Megan toddled out of the bedroom, followed by Afton. “This one needs to get in bed.” “I'm sure she does. She spent half the night trick-or-treating.” Pamela Rebecca picked Megan up. “And I'm surprised at you Mom.” “Why?” “You actually did something grandmotherly.” Afton rolled her eyes. “You mean taking Megan trick-or-treating? I enjoyed it.” “Weren't you worried that someone might have seen you walking and recognized you?” “That's what the costume was for. Besides, you know I love my granddaughter and I'd do anything for her.” Afton looked at the clock. “It's after midnight and Cliff still isn't back. Afton wondered if maybe he hadn't reconciled with Sue Ellen and was spending the night shacked up with her somewhere. Pamela Rebecca thought about John Ross and she wondered about his current relationship with Melissa. How serious were they? Dallas Memorial Hospital
“What the hell were they doing in the loft anyway?” J.R. asked. Sue Ellen wondered that herself, but knowing that John Ross was J.R.'s son, she had a pretty good idea. She tried to keep to herself, not feeling comfortable around J.R. They were both in a very vulnerable state right now. The last thing she needed was a tender moment with him. She decided to go check on Melissa. Sue Ellen knocked on the door and Melissa answered with a weak voice. “Come in.” She walked in and smiled at Melissa, who seemed to be okay, other than a few bandages on her face. “How do you feel?” “Tired. How's John Ross?” “We're still waiting on a prognosis. The doctor hasn't spoken with us yet.” “He'll be okay. We're together in this.” Miss Ellie stepped in the door and Sue Ellen turned around. “The doctor just came out,” Ellie said. Sue Ellen nodded and started to follow her out, but Melissa called out to her. “Let me know what he says, okay?” “You bet.” Sue Ellen left the room and joined the rest outside. “Well doctor?” The doctor removed his glasses and looked at the family. “John Ross wasn't injured by the jump at all…” “What about the fire?” J.R. asked. “Well, Melissa told us that John Ross was hit by a piece of burning rubble, which would explain the burns on his back.” “Oh my God.” Sue Ellen clasped her hands to her mouth. J.R. looked at her and stretched out his arm, as if to welcome her into them. Instead, Sue Ellen went to Clayton, who comforted her. “How bad is it?” J.R. asked. “I'm sorry if I startled you with that, but the burns aren't that serious, nothing that'll require skin grafts or anything like that. The worst ones he suffered were second degree.” “Thank God.” Clayton held Sue Ellen tight while she wiped her eyes. “He also experienced a great deal of smoke inhalation, but Melissa saved his life. You can be thankful that she knew mouth-to-mouth, or else your son wouldn't be here now.” “Can we see him doctor?” Miss Ellie asked. “Sure, but don't stay too long. He needs his rest.” J.R. decided to let Sue Ellen see him first. To be frank, he wasn't even sure John Ross would want to see him. Instead, he went to Melissa's room. Melissa looked startled to see him. “Hi.” “Hello Melissa.” “What are you doing here? How is John Ross?” “John Ross is gonna be fine, thanks to you.” “Thank God.” “John Ross has a lot to be thankful for, mainly that you were there to save him tonight.” “I love him.” “I know you do. I love my son with all my heart too, and it's not every woman I'd let him be with and marry. Lord knows I didn't want him to be with Beam's daughter, or that tramp daughter of Barnes', but I think you can make my son happy.” “Thanks. I want to go see him.” Melissa stepped out of bed and walked out of the room, despite the doctor's orders for her to stay there. The family saw her and sensed that she wanted a minute with John Ross, so they left. She walked over to him and kneeled beside his bed. “John Ross, I was so scared for you.” “I'm okay. Thanks for watching out for me back there.” “I'd have done it for anybody—but especially for the man I love.” The doctor entered, letting Melissa know it was time to get back to her own room. She waved to John Ross, promising that she would be back.
One thing she knew, she was NOT going to ask for a loan. She had dug herself into this situation, and she would get herself out. She had always managed to make it by before, and she would sure as heck do it now. But it was the added knowledge that Justin knew J.R. was his father that made her head seem like it was about to burst. He threatened a full custody suit, and she knew J.R. didn't make idle threats. Could he get Justin away from her? She certainly didn't have any money for a lawsuit. But that might not be the only solution….. Cally's mind raced as she dialed Southfork. Theresa answered, and a moment later, Miss Ellie was on the phone. “Hi Miss Ellie. Its Cally.” “Oh Cally! I'm so glad you called. I've been meaning to call you, but something terrible has happened…” “What? Is everyone ok?” “There was a fire here last night, in the barn. John Ross and Melissa, his girlfriend, were involved in it.” “Oh my Lord! Are they ok?” “Yes, well, Melissa is fine. John Ross is going to pull through, although he was burned a little. The doctors tell us that everything will be okay though. It was just such a scare.” The two women talked for a few more minutes about the fire, with Cally asking pertinent questions, forcing Miss Ellie to reassure her again and again that John Ross was going to be alright. Finally, Miss Ellie changed the subject. “J.R. told us about Justin.” “He did?” Cally was caught off guard. “Yes. Cally, I wished you had told us earlier. Justin is a lovely boy. I would have loved to gotten to know him earlier---for him to have known us.” She paused. “But I understand why you didn't tell everyone. J.R. explained how things were at the end of your marriage. I'm just sorry I was away then, and wasn't able to help.” “Oh Miss Ellie, it's not your fault. I'm so sorry if I've hurt anyone….is anyone mad?” “Mad? No! We're thrilled and we're excited. How is Justin handling this?” “He couldn't be more thrilled about who his daddy is.” Miss Ellie laughed on the other end. “Well, I wish that John Ross and James always felt that way!” Cally couldn't help but laugh at that one too. After she had calmed down a bit, she said, “Seriously though, Miss Ellie, there is something I want to talk to you about.” This was her chance of stopping J.R. “What is it?” “Well, this weekend, when I was at Southfork…I don't know how to say this….well, after J.R. found out about Justin, he…” “Cally, please, tell me.” “Before I left, he told me that he was going to sue for full custody.” “What? He said that?” “Yes, and I'm scared. I don't have much Miss Ellie, and I know J.R. is pretty powerful in Texas.” “He threatened you?” Cally wanted to say that, yes, he did. But she didn't want to hurt Miss Ellie anymore than she needed to by telling her this. It would have been nice, but she didn't want to see Miss Ellie hurt anymore than she needed to be, in order to keep Justin away from J.R. “Not exactly threatened, but he told me that now that he knew about his son, he was going to sue for full custody and have Justin come live at Southfork.” Cally tried to hold back tears. “Miss Ellie, I can't battle J.R. in court. I don't have that money. I told J.R. he could be a part of Justin's life, but please don't let J.R. take him away. He's my life.” “Cally, your son is not going to be taken away from you. I will speak with J.R. Nothing will happen. I promise you that.” “I don't mean to be talkin' behind anyone's backs here.” “Nonsense. It needed to be told. Don't worry Cally; everything will be fine. I promise.” The two women bid each other goodbye, and Cally hung up the phone feeling just a little bit better. Just a little bit.
When he heard the doorknob click, he assumed it was the doctor, but to his surprise, it was J.R. “Hello Son, how are you feelin'?” John Ross didn't look at him. Instead, he fixed his attention on the window. “Do you really care? If not, then I don't think we have anything else to discuss.” “There's plenty to discuss. For one thing, you insulted my Daddy's, your granddaddy's legacy…now tell me you didn't mean that.” “I meant every word of it, and it's obvious that you don't give a damn about me because of it.” “John Ross…” John Ross pushed the nurse call button and seconds later, a blonde nurse appeared in the room. “Yes?” she said. “Can you have security escort this man out of here?” The nurse shot him a confused glance, then nodded. J.R. looked at his son. “Boy, if you weren't in that hospital bed, I just might show you how to have a little respect for your father.” “I used to have respect for you—then I saw the light.” A uniformed security guard stepped into the room and motioned J.R. out. J.R. didn't resist, and followed him out of the room. A few seconds later, there was another knock. John Ross sighed. “Come in.” Pamela Rebecca pushed open the door. “Hi John Ross. I just heard about the fire.” She placed a bunch of Get Well Soon balloons on the table and stood beside the bed. “How're you feeling?” “I'm okay. Thanks for the balloons.” “It was nothing, really. It scared me to death when I heard about the fire. What were you doing in the hayloft anyway?” John Ross blushed, but didn't offer her the truth, or an explanation. Rather, he changed the subject. “How's Megan?” “Growing…like a weed. I've been meaning to bring her by Southfork so you could see her, but things have been hectic.” “I'd like to see her sometime.” “I'll see what I can do. Look, I have some things I need to take care of, so I need to get going. I just wanted to drop by and check on you. I really hope you feel better soon.” “Yeah, thanks.” As she left, John Ross was really surprised to find that she had cheered him up. Rebecca pulled the door shut behind her and stepped out into the hallway. She didn't see the doctor until after she'd collided with him. Papers and folders went scattering across the hall and she realized who he was. “Dr. Benson, Hi.” “Well, Miss Cooper, how are you? And how is your little daughter since the accident?” Benson was the doctor that had saved Megan's life after the explosion at Southfork—the one that had revealed that John Ross couldn't be Megan's father. “She's fine.” Pamela Rebecca looked at him and an idea formulated in her head. She bent over and helped him pick up the scattered papers, then gave them back to him. “Well, I'm running late for a meeting.” He glanced at his watch, smiled at her, then walked away. Pamela Rebecca turned in his direction, then took out her cell phone. “Hey Geno, remember that favor you owe me? Well, I'm calling it in…”
To his surprise, Southfork was deserted. No one was in the dining room like they usually were. There might have been someone else upstairs, but he hadn't heard anyone. He took a seat at the huge table, alone, and waited for Theresa, but she didn't come out. “Irritated, Lucas got up and fixed himself a bowl of cereal.” He was munching it when he heard a sound. “Anybody there?” Lucas got out of his chair and turned around. He strongly felt his mother's presence in the room—but that was crazy. “Mr. Lucas,” Theresa said, walking into the living room. “I'm sorry, your breakfast is on the table.” Lucas rubbed his eyes and clasped his head. “Umm, yeah, I'll be down in a second.” He stayed there for a second, until Pam walked down. “Good morning Lucas.” He looked at her and remembered that it was her fault his mother was now dead. Dead—that last word echoed in his mind. “Hi.” “What's wrong? You look like you've seen a ghost.” He smiled, uneasily, and then he walked down the stairs. Pam followed him. Pam and Lucas sat at the table and ate breakfast together, neither saying a word. Finally, Lucas spoke up. He had to get this off his chest—and there wasn't anyone else here at the moment. “Aunt Pam.” Pam put down her fork and turned her full attention to him. “Yes Lucas?” “Can I tell you something?” “Well, sure. You know you can tell me anything.” “I saw my mother.” Pam's hand jerked and caused her glass of milk to topple over, quickly spreading across the tablecloth. She fumbled with her napkin and wiped it up. “What?” “I saw my mom. I saw her last night at the Halloween party.” “Now Lucas, surely you were imagining things. Your mother passed away last year. You couldn't have seen her—and if she were alive, she would have come back, we would have seen her.” “I know what I saw, whether you believe it or not. I saw her!” Lucas left the table, realizing how stupid and childish he must have sounded. Worried, Pam picked up the phone and dialed Ray's number. “Hello?” “Ray, it's Pam.” “Well hi Pam, what can I do for ya?” “It's Lucas. I don't know what he was doing at Southfork, but he's frightening me.” Ray was worried. What could Lucas have done now? “Why? How?” “He's claiming he saw his mother last night.” Ray sighed. “I wouldn't put too much stock in what that boy says. I'm sure he's just trying to get some attention. I'm afraid I haven't been much of a father to him lately.” “Don't blame yourself Ray. You've had a lot on your mind lately. I think I'll go talk to Lucas and see if I can get him to open up some more.” “Would you? I've got some things I need to take care of, then I'll be right over to pick him up and take him to school.” “Don't worry, I'll take him. It'll give me a chance to talk to him. After all, I did finally get Lucy to come to, all those years ago.” Ray remembered very well Pam's early days at Southfork. “I guess you're right. Let's face it…you've had more years experience in the parenting department than me.” Pam smiled. “I just wanted to let you know. I'll call you if I find out anything.” “Okay, thanks Pam. I'll talk to you later.”
Sue Ellen was in her bedroom, putting away some clothes. She couldn't believe she had lived through the previous night---John Ross could have been killed! She doubted her heart had ever beat that fast before. But he was going to be okay, and Melissa was as well. That was all that was important, Sue Ellen told herself over and over. Still, if John Ross had been hurt…. “Aunt Sue Ellen?” Christopher knocked on her door. “Hey,” she welcomed her nephew in. “How's John Ross feeling?” Christopher had spoken with his cousin a few hours before. “Better, much better. He's going to be just fine, thank God.” Sue Ellen packed the last of her clothes away. “What's up?” Christopher shut the door behind him. “Can I talk to you about something?” “Christopher, you can talk to me about anything. Come, sit down.” She motioned to sit next to her on the bed. “It's about my 10% of West Star,” he mentioned, sitting down. “Are you thinking of selling it?” “Actually, yes. To J.R.” “What? Didn't we go through this before? That would be the worst person to sell it to!” “No, listen, listen. I've got an idea. I'm going to give him 10% of West Star---in exchange for 5% of Ewing Oil.” “Do you really think that J.R. is going to go along with that?” “That's what I wanted to talk to you about.” “I have to be honest with you Christopher,” Sue Ellen got up and crossed her arm, walking towards the window, “I don't think that idea is going to go that well over with him. He's already down to 52%. Getting rid of 5% would not put him in he majority control.” “I know. The reason I'm telling you is that if I get the 5%, I want to sell it to you. Todd informed me that you're in the market for some percentages of Ewing Oil.” “Really?” This perked Sue Ellen up. 5% of Ewing Oil would put her up to 13%--definitely a start. She had to admit, she had put her quest to get Ewing Oil away from J.R. aside in light of the events of recent weeks, but she was still determined to get it away from him. “Yeah. But I'm not sure the best way to go about getting the 5% from J.R. I have some ideas…” Sue Ellen interjected. “You've got to hold something over his head. Do you have something?” “Yes, I do. I don't really want to say because it involves other parties, but I'm scared it's not tangible enough. It involves me making threats to tell other people what J.R. has done to them.” “Do you have any proof of these 'things' that J.R. has done?” “No, that's the problem. I've got the word, supposed, of two other people. But nothing concrete, like a document or something. I was going to threaten to tell Grandma everything.” Sue Ellen seemed to think on this for a moment. “Hmmm….that's a tough one. If there's anyone that J.R. wants to keep in the dark, it's Miss Ellie. Still, he might be able to get his way out of anything that you said to her, if you have nothing to back it up with. He might call your bluff.” “Or he might make sure that I lose the custody trial” , Christopher thought to himself. It was altogether a risky situation. He wished he had something more solid to throw at J.R.! “However, there is something that think may just work…” she trailed off, as if she was still formulating the idea in her mind. “What?” Christopher was hopeful. “It's about Cliff. Something that he has, that I know that J.R. would just about die rather than see Cliff use.” “What?” This had got to be good. Cliff having something on J.R.? “Well, the reason that Jack is in the Clifford Group is because he bought into 5%, in exchange for giving Cliff that property of land right across from Southfork,” Sue Ellen made an indicating gesture with her arm. “It has oil in it---lots. Cliff got it just to stick it up J.R. He threatened to drill on it, and told me that J.R. nearly had a coronary.” “Really? What is J.R. doing about it? He can't let Cliff have that hanging over his head. Why does he even care anyway? It's not like it's on Southfork.” “Christopher, c'mon. If they started drilling directly across the street, don't you think that it would be upsetting, especially to Miss Ellie?” “OK, good point.” “Plus, J.R. just hates the notion that Cliff got that land, because, from what I hear, he was gunning for it as well. At least that's what Jack told me.” “So do you think if I try to use that against him, he'll agree to give me some of Ewing Oil?” “I think it can't hurt. Cliff would go along with you in a second.” “But do you really think Uncle Cliff would drill for oil across from Southfork? That seems so unlike him.” “When it comes to busting J.R., he'd trade in his own sister. That's for sure.” Sue Ellen took a step forward and looked at Christopher inquisitively. “What gave you this idea of asking J.R. for the 5%?” “Todd. I told him that I was interested in unloading the West Star stock that I have from Kaitlin, and he suggested using it to get you some of J.R.'s percentage of Ewing Oil. After all, it's obvious that J.R. would salivate knowing that there was West Star stock available.” Christopher decided not to tell his aunt about J.R. blackmailing him. It would just cause too much confusion. Sue Ellen had to admire Todd. Seemed he wanted J.R. to go down just as much as she did. “Well, Christopher, I think that you're pretty much on your own on this one. I can't think of anything else to say. Good luck though---I'd love it if you squeeze some of Ewing Oil out of that snake.” Christopher's smile in response was empty. “How are you doing?” Sue Ellen asked. “Things any better?” “Things are fine. I'm glad that I'm out of West Star. I think that was causing a lot of my problem.” “If you need anyone to talk to—you come to me. I've been down that road Christopher. Liquor isn't anything that's going to help you out in the long run. I promise.” “I know, Aunt Sue Ellen. Thanks for all your support.” He hugged Sue Ellen and quietly left her room. A part of him felt guilty for going to his room and pouring himself a drink. Only a small part, though.
J.R. poured himself a glass of milk from the refrigerator. Valene entered the kitchen in her robe. She was obviously not pleased to see J.R. “Well, Valene, how's it going honey?” “Fine J.R.” Valene responded stoically. “How's that construction project of Gary's going? Sunk yet?” “You could only wish J.R.” Valene bounced back. “You'll be happy to know that things are going just fine. John Ross seems to have faith in the project. Seems he has the sense his father lacks.” “Oh I wouldn't go around making comments about stupidity being passed onto children. Look at you and Lucy. That's a little like the pot calling the kettle black, don't you think?” J.R. was feeling confident about his plan for Gary. If John Ross had to be hurt in the process, then he had to be hurt---teach the boy a lesson. No one was going to know that he was behind Gary's little project going under, after all. Before Valene could even respond, Miss Ellie walked into the kitchen, a determined look on her face. “J.R., I want to speak with you.” “Hey mama,” he said, taking a sip of his milk. Miss Ellie turned to Valene. “Valene, do you think you could excuse us for a moment? I need to speak with J.R. in private.” “Sure thing,” Valene quietly made her exit, but not before shooting J.R. a malicious stare. “What's wrong?” J.R. asked his mother. “I spoke with Cally this morning. She told me the threat you made---about getting full custody of Justin.” “I never said anything like that,” J.R. quickly tried to cover for himself. “She must have misheard me.” “She didn't mishear anything, J.R. and you know it. I know what you're like when it comes to your children. Do you think I forgot about that time when you tried to use ME to kidnap John Ross?” Immediately J.R.'s mind flashed back to the time right before he and Sue Ellen divorced---for the first time. She was holed away with his boy down on Clayton's ranch. “I can explain everything. I didn't mean it as a threat.” “I'm sure you did, but that's beside the point. You will not be suing for custody of Justin. Cally has made it very clear that you are welcome to be part of that boy's life, but she is his mother and is the only parent he's known for his whole life. You are NOT going to do anything that is going to harm that boy, or his mother. I'll see to that.” J.R. didn't know what to say. He couldn't refute his mother. Miss Ellie continued her tirade. “It's quite sad, J.R., that you're the oldest of my sons, but you act like the baby of the family sometimes. I still have to watch you like a hawk.” Miss Ellie gave her son a final stern look that sealed the matter, and exited the kitchen. “Damn!” J.R. thought to himself. He shouldn't have leveled that threat against Cally. He should have assumed that she was going to blab to his mama, or Sue Ellen. It was now time for Plan B to commence. J.R. walked over to the phone, and dialed Doug Avant's number. Doug, as faithful as ever, answered on the second ring. “Hello?” He said. “Doug. J.R. Ewing here. Listen, I need you to do me a favor. Get me everything you can on my ex-wife's financials---Cally, not Sue Ellen. You still have her address and everything?” “Sure do. When do you need this by?” “Now, but tomorrow will be fine. Thanks, Doug.” J.R. promptly hung up the phone. Justin was going to be living with him. J.R. wouldn't have it any other way. If Cally didn't want to go the easy route with a custody battle, that was fine. Now it was time to play rough.
Christopher took a seat across from J.R., and heard Sly quietly shut the door. “Well, glad you're here Christopher. I was about to make a call to the papers. You have the 10%?” Christopher put his briefcase on the desk. Opening it, he took out some documents, and waved them in front of J.R. “Here's the transfer papers for my 10% of West Star.” Christopher saw J.R.'s eyes bulge a bit. “But, first I need something from you.” “Is that a fact?” J.R. reclined back in his chair. “I want 5% of Ewing Oil.” J.R.'s laugh was audible in the outer office. “You're kidding me. You're not getting anything from me, except my mouth being kept shut about that drug addict wife of yours.” “I'm not at West Star anymore. I really need someplace to lay my hat everyday…and I love the oil business.” “Nice try, Christopher.” “I suppose I could say the same thing about your little plot for Donna and Ray—nice try.” J.R. just startled for a moment. “What the hell are you talking about?” “Like you said, J.R., nice try. Paying someone to sleep with Ray? Using that to make sure Donna doesn't win? Trying to ruin Donna's campaign from the inside? Gosh, that's pretty heavy stuff.” “You don't know what the hell you're talking about boy.” “Well, I think I do, but I guess you don't. I wonder what grandma will think? I think I might tell her.” “What are you getting at? I'm getting real short on patience.” “I want 5% of Ewing Oil. You give me 5%, I'll keep my mouth shut and Grandma will never know what you did to Donna and Ray.” “You think mama's going to believe you? You're bluffing, and you're not getting anything from me.” “You want to try me?” “Where did you get all these crazy ideas in your head?” “Dallas is a small town,” Christopher replied. “More like Todd has a big mouth,” J.R. thought to himself. “You're right about that, and you know that I own it. So I wouldn't sit there making threats.” “Oh, I'm not the only one that knows what you did. Todd and Ray do as well, and are more than happy to talk to Grandma with me.” Christopher stated this matter-of-factly. “Todd and Ray are both half-breeds that wouldn't know what common sense was if it came up and bit them on the butt.” J.R. didn't want to admit it, but he was a little bit nervous. Where was this coming from in Christopher? Did he really care about Ewing Oil? Christopher decided it was time to hit him with the last threat. If that didn't work, then it was over. “I've spoken with uncle Cliff too. I told him why I was coming here today….he wasn't too pleased. In fact, he said that if I didn't get some of Ewing Oil in return, then he'd have to start a certain 'construction project' that he knows you would not be pleased with. I'm not sure what that means, but it's what he said.” Finishing that lie, Christopher hoped that it would swing J.R. “How did he know about Cliff owning that land next to Southfork?” J.R. wondered. “Really? Barnes said that, did he.” He couldn't believe he was in this position of taking demands from Christopher. “He said that he would be having someone flying in to do some surveying if I didn't have some of Ewing Oil at the end of the day.” J.R. tried to rationalize the situation quickly in his head. Christopher knew that Cliff had something to hold over J.R.'s head. It seemed as if he didn't know exactly what. Was this threat valid? Combined with his promise to tell Miss Ellie about Donna and Ray…it may not cause disaster, but it could certainly cause problems. “So what do you want, 5% of my company?” “Exactly.” Christopher was trying to maintain control. He was in an intimidating situation. “No way. That would take me to 47%. I'm not stupid, Christopher. That would take me out of majority control.” “Fine, 3%.” “No deal. Same thing. I'd only have 49% control of the company.” “What's more important to you—majority control of Ewing Oil of having Grandma know about all your little schemes? Or how about Cliff going through with whatever 'construction project' he talked about. The way he said it made me know he had something on you.” J.R. had to admit the validity of his point. With his mama knowing about his threat against Cally, he couldn't risk having her think any less of him. It could hinder his eventual plan for Cally and Justin---and that was too big to have any interference. If Todd and Ray backed Christopher up, that could cause more damage. He doubted Ray would speak, but he could be damn sure that Todd would open his trap. The boy had no class. If Cliff started drilling across from Southfork—and that's something Barnes just might do---then he'd have another thing to worry about. He had too much going on right now to focus on that. It was his plan for Cally that made J.R. think the most. What he had in store for her depended on him looking like a saint. He couldn't take any risks about that---not when his boy was involved. But he wasn't going to lose Ewing Oil either. At least, not majority control. “I'll give you 2%. That or nothing.” J.R. stated quietly. He was NOT going to sound defeated, especially by Christopher. “Deal. I'll have my lawyers bring over the appropriate papers at the end of the day. Then I'll sign the papers giving you the 10% of West Star.” Christopher gathered up his papers and put them in his briefcase. “And I still trust that Karen's name won't be appearing in the paper.” “Watch yourself Christopher. I'm not going to forget you did this.” J.R. dismissed his nephew, and he walked out. J.R. tried to not slink back in defeat. He tried to look at the positive side, if there was one. His reputation to his mother, and to everyone by extension, would be preserved. That wouldn't interfere in his plan to get Justin. Cliff wouldn't drill next to Southfork, at least for now. He needed to somehow get rid of that problem once and for all----he couldn't allow Cliff to hang it over his head with every little turn. But it was Ewing Oil that really depressed him. It wasn't a lot on its own, but 2%, in the whole scheme of things, brought his control down to 50%. He couldn't be outvoted, but if all the other shareholders voted together, they would have a tie. Still, J.R. supposed, he always had his plot for Gary. If things went right according to plan, which they were, then Gary's 7.5% would soon be in his hands. That would give him majority control again. J.R. smiled. Perhaps things wouldn't be so bad after all.
Sly buzzed his office. “Doug Avant is on the line for you, J.R.” “Thanks honey,” J.R. said, quickly picking up the phone. He hoped Doug had some relevant news. “J.R. Ewing here. What've you got?” “Seems your ex-wife is having some financial problems. She basically has a depleted savings account, hardly any funds in her checking account, and her rent is overdue.” “Really?” Cally in the poorhouse? This could be good. “Tell me more.” “She's been drifting from job to job, while trying to sell her paintings all the meanwhile—“ “Her art always did suck,” J.R. interrupted. “Well, you're not the only one that feels that way because no one's been buying. She's just gotten another rent payment notification due. She's two months behind. They're threatening eviction.” “Find out who owns that house she rents.” “It's an old man by the name of Tom Schalk. His wife's been dead for ten years. Does it to earn a little extra income.” “You have his number?” Doug read the number off for J.R. J.R. thanked Doug for all his work, and told him that they'd be in contact soon. Before hanging up, Doug inquired what J.R.'s next move was going to be. “I'm buying a house. Everything's for sale. For the right price.”
She looked at her nephew as he entered the room, and she could see from his eyes that it was a triumph. Kelly shut the door behind her, and Sue Ellen immediately asked, “What happened?” “Well, I managed to get 2%. That's it.” “That's better than nothing.” That would put her up to 10% of Ewing Oil! Not a bad start! “How did he take it?” “He resisted, threatened me back. But then it was weird. It was like, all of a sudden, something in his brain snapped, and it made him realize that I really did have something on him. Regardless, he agreed.” “But he wouldn't give you 5%?” “No,” Christopher shook his head. “That was one thing he stood by---it's why he only gave me 2%. Now he has 50% control, so he's technically still got majority control.” “No one can outvote him, that's true.” Sue Ellen said, almost as if stating it for herself. “But, like I said, it worked and I've got 2% of Ewing Oil here and the appropriate papers for you to sign.” Christopher put his briefcase on the desk. “This is wonderful. Christopher, I don't know how to thank you.” “Don't mention that I gave you the 2%. At least, not until the custody trial is over. He might use that against me---you know the influence he has.” “I understand. Your secret is safe with me. You'll still own this as far as everyone is concerned.” “Thanks Aunt Sue Ellen.” After the papers were signed, Christopher congratulated her again. He then excused himself, claiming another appointment. He was lying---he just wanted to go downstairs and get a drink. Sue Ellen didn't seem to notice his little white lie, though. She was too busy staring that the document that she had just signed. 10% of Ewing Oil was hers!
The doorbell rang and Cally sprang up to get it. She walked past Justin, who was drawing in the living room. He didn't even seem to have heard the doorbell. Cally opened the door to find a deliveryman standing there. “Cally Harper?” he asked. “Yes,” she replied, curious. Who was sending her a package? The man handed her an envelope. “Sign here,” he ordered, presenting her with a clipboard. Cally quickly scrawled her name, thanked the man and shut the door. She tore open the envelope immediately, her curiosity taking full effect. She almost screamed when she saw the content of the letter. It was another official document regarding her rent. Except this time it said that Thomas Schalk no longer owned her home, but had sold it to another entity, and this new owner did not tolerate such late rent payments. Cally was being evicted, effective immediately.
She pulled it out and rolled it into the house, making sure no one saw her walking. Afton fumbled with the key and opened the door, where she flipped on the lights. “Oh my God!” she dropped her keys upon seeing the man sitting on her couch. “Hey Sweets, did you discover the miracle cure for walking?” “What the hell are you doing here?” Afton's ex-husband, Harrison Van Buren, stood up. “I just came to congratulate my wonderful ex-wife on her newly acquired fame and fortune.” She dropped her purse onto the table near the door. “Save it. What do you want?” “I never was one to beat around the bush, so, for starters, I'll take five-hundred grand.” Afton laughed dryly. “You're not getting a cent out of me, you lousy low-life bastard.” “Still got that old fire in ya don't ya Afton? I like that. Now, I'll be more than happy not to tell good old Cliffie about your little plot, if you'll just hand over some money. I'm getting married soon and I need the money…” “You'll just gamble it all away like you did when we were married. Now get the hell out of my house before I call the police.” “One week.” “What?” “You've got one week to get up the money, or else I'm telling Cliff about your fake paralysis.” Afton's eyes narrowed. “You sicken me. I shot Cliff once…don't think it would be any trouble for me to do the same thing to you.” “You know me…I always liked to take my chances. I'll be in touch…sayonara.” Harry waved to her and slammed the door. She sank into her chair, contemplating her options.
“The address…” “For?” “The house in Paris. The one that Jenna supposedly left me in her will.” Bobby frowned and took a seat by her. “Pam, I thought we agreed to close that door forever…we threw the key into the pond outside.” “Don't you ever wonder why she left me that house?” “Well, Jenna was suffering from a mental disorder when she died. It could be anything.” “I don't even think it was Jenna. I think Katherine has something to do with all of this.” “Katherine?” “Yes. You know she's capable of anything.” “But why would she do that? What could she have to gain?” “There's only one way to find out.” “You threw away the key.” “We can get in—if we really want to.” “Pam, I don't like this. Whether it was Katherine or Jenna that left you the house, it could still be dangerous. Both of them had reason to want you dead. It could be booby-trapped, or anything.” Pam looked into Bobby's eyes. “Bobby, right now, I have everything I've ever wanted. I'm back in Dallas with you and we have the miracle baby we've wanted for so long. But, there's this ever-present shadow that looms over it all…and that's the house. I have to know what's in it and why it was left to me.” “Then we'll go to Paris and settle this once and for all.” “Thank you Bobby.” As Bobby picked up the phone to book a flight, Pam couldn't help but feel nervous in anticipation of the trip. Donna's Campaign HQ
Donna looked around: all her loved ones were around her. Miss Ellie and Clayton were chatting in a corner, always keeping one eye glued to the screen. Lucy and Neil were in another corner, chatting away. Margaret was talking with Betsy and Bobby II, while Gary, Valene, Pam and Bobby all talked behind them. Cliff was there, with Afton. Todd was talking to Sue Ellen, while Jack was talking with Christopher. Ray was there too, with Lucas. He had just arrived, and Lucas looked none too happy to be there. Why was Ray here? A show of support? Perhaps to keep things looking nice and sweet between them for the cameras? If that was the case, then she silently thanked him. She also said a silent thanks that J.R. was nowhere visible. That was one scenario that she didn't want to deal with. “So, what are you're big plans to change Dallas, now that you'll be mayor?” Lucy asked, strolling up with Neil. “I haven't won.” “Yet.” Neil piped in. Donna smiled gratefully. “Donna, you're a surefire shoe-in. There's no doubt about it.” Lucy responded.
“Miss Ellie? Can we talk to you about something?” she asked. Miss Ellie immediately noticed that Sue Ellen used the word we. “Is anything wrong Sue Ellen?” She looked at Jack. “No, nothing's wrong.” Sue Ellen smiled, wanting to say the right thing. “Jack and I want to tell you something---both of you.” “Well, what is it?” Clayton said, smiling good-naturedly. “We're seeing each other right now,” Jack piped in, seeing Sue Ellen's uneasiness. She cared a lot about Miss Ellie; he knew that. Was she scared of upsetting her? Why would Miss Ellie be upset if they were together? “Really! Well, how long has this been going on?” Miss Ellie asked, curiously. “Only a few days. But we feel strongly enough that we thought we should tell the family. After all, it's kind of sudden, I know.” Sue Ellen said. “Sudden, yes. I'm happy for both of you, but are you sure about this? Do you think you're rushing into anything?” She asked. “I don't think we are, but I guess we'll have to see. I'm a firm believer in taking chances. I'm willing to take this chance---I think it's well worth it.” Jack smiled at Sue Ellen the whole time he said this. “I feel the same way,” Sue Ellen responded back. “Well, I'm happy for both of you,” Clayton said. “As am I,” Miss Ellie said after a moment. She gave one of her warmest, most sincere smiles. It made Sue Ellen feel a hundred times better.
“In the bathroom, I think.” “How are things between you two?” “They're fine,” Cliff said non-commitedly, stuffing his face with food. “I wish they had some Chinese here?” “Well why didn't you order some?” Pam asked, laughing slightly. “You're the campaign manager!” “Because I'm too cheap,” Cliff sarcastically remarked back. “Cliff, I'm so proud of you. I know that you've worked hard for this campaign, and it shows. It's really come together ever since you've been on board. Donna feels the same way too.” “Thanks Pam. Say, how are you doing?” “I'm fine. Busy, but fine. I forgot what it was like to have a baby around the house! It's been so long since Christopher was in diapers!” “No, I mean about Katherine.” “Cliff, I don't want to talk about that.” “Pam, you did only what you were forced to do.” Pam looked away, not wanting to discuss the matter. “Look at me Pam. I don't want you to be torn up about this. Wouldn't that be exactly what Katherine wanted? For you to be plagued with guilt over an action that you took because SHE forced you to? She was going to kill you! And it wasn't like you were acting out of selfishness either----there are so many people that you were looking out for---Bobby, me, Christopher, Gracie…” “Still, she was my sister…” Pam said, trying not to cry. “And she was psychotic, and she tried to kill you, she ruined your life and she framed me for murder. Don't forget that! And she shot Bobby, all those years ago! She was friendly with J.R.---that's enough reason to shoot her.” Pam laughed out loud, “Oh, Cliff.” “I love you Pam.” “I love you too,” his sister responded.
“Hey Jack,” Valene said. “Hi,” Jack said. He hated to admit it, but he felt a tad uncomfortable speaking with Gary and Valene. They were his only link to Knots Landing---and Abby. “How're things going at the Clifford Group? That's a HUGE company,” Valene was obviously aware of his uneasiness, and was trying to make him feel better. “It's a whole new world. I still get shaky in corporate environments…” “Oh, really? From what Karen says, you were great when Abby put you on as…” She trailed off, realizing the subject matter was not exactly the most welcomed. “Hey, listen, Jack.” Gary piped in, having been silent to this point. “Things between you and Abby didn't work out. I'm sorry, but so what? Things between Abby and I didn't work out either. In retrospect, I thank God for that. Don't think that Val and I are passing any sort of judgement on you because of your relationship with Sue Ellen. We're not.” “If anyone knows what kind of viper that woman is, it's me,” Valene chimed in. “There is part of me that feels dishonest. Abby and I are still technically married, although our divorce is processing.” “With Abby, you can't have a conventional relationship. You can't have a conventional break-up, either. But whatever happens, you have our support, ok?” Gary smiled. “Thanks Gary.” “What are cousins for?”
“I know, he told me about it. I'm just sorry that he couldn't pump more out of that old dirtbag.” “Wow, you have quite a disliking for J.R. Might even enough to rival my own!” “He hasn't endeared himself to me of late.” “Well, please don't hesitate to call on me if you need anything. I definitely owe you.” “Get another 41% of that company from him. That's how you can repay me.” It was at that time Cliff strolled over and greeted both of them. Todd smiled, and excused himself to have a cigarette. Sue Ellen was a bit uneasy around Cliff. They hadn't seen much of each other, with Cliff spending so much time with the campaign. “Hey Sue Ellen. How are you?” “I'm fine Cliff, how are you?” She tried to keep things very cold and business-like. “Nervous and excited.” “I'm positive Donna will win.” “Are things still strange between us. C'mon Sue Ellen, can't we just forget this happened?” “I know I'll never forget it Cliff, but I'm on my way to forgiving. We just have to take things slowly.” And it was true. She didn't look at him with the same contempt that she did right after the wedding. She almost felt bad for him, in a strange sort of way. She remembered one reason why she pitied Cliff when she saw Afton rolling over to them in her wheelchair. “Well, Sue Ellen. Nice to see you,” Afton condescendingly said. “Goodbye, Cliff. I'll see you at the office tomorrow.” She was not going to stick around and mince words with Afton. She might end up paralyzing her from the neck down. “Did I say something?” Afton asked innocently. Cliff couldn't respond, because it was at that moment that one of the interns screamed, “They're going to announce it!” Everyone's eyes turned towards the television screens. Donna was standing with Clayton and Christopher. Margaret ran over to her mother, and Donna held her tight. Her palms were sweating. “….and in a remarkably strong victory, Donna Dowling is officially the new mayor of Dallas…” the rest of the words were lost to Donna. The sea of screams and her own lightheadedness took over. “AAAAAAAAAAAH!!!” Margaret screamed like a giddy schoolgirl and hugged her mother tightly. Donna was so overwhelmed. Everyone was coming up to her, patting her back, kissing her on the cheek…. Clayton…Bobby…Sue Ellen...Lucy. Cliff came over, and Donna could clearly see him through her tears. They were of joy and sorrow. She had gone through SO much to get here, and she had. “Congratulations!” Cliff said, hugging her. “Cliff, thank you. Thank you so much….” Donna muttered, trying to collect herself. Miss Ellie came over, her smile warm, and gave Donna a huge hug and kiss on the cheek. “I knew you could do it,” she said. And then Ray came up to her. He gave her a large hug, and she accepted it. She couldn't NOT accept it. She couldn't even think! While they were locked in embrace, and Donna's eyes darted around in amazement and confusion, Ray whispered in her ear: “I love you. Cowboy's honor.” He pulled away from her, and disappeared into the crowd of people that overwhelmed Donna.
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