Justin Harper Dominique Barbara Safi Eric Stone Gregor Dervish Rex Wentworth Gary Ewing Cole Fowler Megan Cooper and Janice Kelly
Craig Byrne and Justin Stiles
Jesse Murray and Justin Stiles
Kristin Cashmere Chad Cox Karin Schill and Andy Smithers
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 Rural Braddock: Near Southfork
Pam was frantic and tears blurred her eyes. “Leave me alone!” she screamed into the darkness. The car came in for a third hit and she almost crashed into a lane of oncoming traffic. The traffic passed and once again the road ahead was dark. Directly ahead, the road turned onto a bridge. Gregor Dervish, the same man who had followed Pam and Bobby back to the U.S., intended to run Pam over the railing. As Pam sped up, Gregor accelerated and kept close behind her. The bridge was only about 200 feet ahead. The phone suddenly rang and Gregor slowed down. “Yeah?” “Gregor, it's Rex.” “Don't worry Rex, I'm about to finish off Pam Ewing for good.” “No! Stop. I've changed my mind.” “What?” Gregor had swerved over and was coming in on Pam, ready to run her off the bridge. At the last second, he managed to slam on the brakes and bring the car to a screeching halt. “I'll deal with Pam another way…something not so quick.” Ahead, Pam could barely see the road. The tears blurred her vision and she struggled to wipe them away. Southfork was just ahead and the driver appeared to have stopped. Whoever it was, Pam clearly understood that he had intended to kill her… The welcoming lights of Southfork Ranch came into view and Pam pulled the car into the drive, relieved to be safe…and still alive. She breathed deeply and opened the car door, peering off into the night to look for the car, but it was nowhere to be seen. As Pam entered the house, Bobby greeted her. “Well Honey, you must have cleaned out the stores, because you stayed gone all day.” “Oh Bobby…somebody tried to run me off the road.” “What?” “Someone driving behind me. They hit the back of my car…several times before backing off.” Bobby's face was filled with worry. “God, you could have been killed.” He drew her close to him and held her tightly. “I'll call Sheriff Washburn…I don't know that there's much he can do, but maybe he can be on the look out…” Bobby's thoughts drifted back to their confrontation with Rex Wentworth. Could he have something to do with this?
Clayton Farlow, clad in a heavy coat and gloves, strolled out to where several of the hands were gathered. “Mornin' Mr. Farlow,” said Miguel. Clayton returned the greeting and stooped over. “Frozen again?” “Yep, 'fraid so.” Clayton stroked his chin, then kicked the ice with the heel of his boot. “I thought I told you to go ahead and order the stock tank heater a few weeks ago.” “Yes sir, but it was back-ordered. They're not expecting to be able to send it to us until at least after the new year.” “Damn. Well, we'll have to go it the old-fashioned way then.” “Yes sir. The boys and me will take care of it every morning.” “Great. How are the feed reserves holding up? I don't think it'll be an issue, but this Y2K thing might knock something out…never know. We'll need enough reserves to feed the cattle and horses through the winter.” “The whole storage shed is full of feed. Plus, we've got 5,000 bales of hay that we'll feed during that. All in all, I think we're in pretty good shape.” Clayton nodded. “Good. Just doesn't hurt to be sure, especially when it might hit during the winter. Then, it'll also be useful in the case of a blizzard or bad storm.”
Miss Ellie was quietly reading in the living room, happy to have a moment to herself. The last couple days had been so hectic, with J.R. announcing Jillian as her granddaughter. Imagine, another granddaughter! Miss Ellie thought back to when Lucy was Jillian's age, and how rambunctious she was. Ellie was excited, but a little scared as well. The poor girl had just lost her mother, and now she was plunged into a whole other world, stuck with a family that she didn't know. Therefore, she was determined to make Jillian feel as welcome as possible. Thankfully, everyone was helping her, especially Valene, Pam and Karen. Each had tried to make Jillian feel welcome in their own way, and it seemed to be working: Ellie noticed her granddaughter seemed to be more settled in. But how was she getting along with J.R.? Still, Ellie had to admit that it was nice to have some time alone. She continued reading her book for the next twenty minutes when she was surprised by J.R.'s sudden entrance. She thought he was at work. “J.R., what are you doing home?” “I had some business around here, so I decided to drop by for lunch. How're you doing mama?” Miss Ellie put away her glasses and closed her book. “Tired, but well.” She got up and walked over towards her son. “Where is Jillian?” “I was going to ask you the same thing. I came home to see if she wanted to eat with me.” Miss Ellie smiled. “It's good to spend time with her. She's very upset about her mother.” “I am too, mama.” “You are, aren't you?” It was really the first time Ellie acknowledged a relationship between Mandy and J.R. She knew that Jillian was the product of one of J.R.'s extramarital affairs. She wasn't happy that her son did such things, but she tried to turn a blind eye to it. What else could she do? “I'm sorry. I know that Mandy was important to you.” Somehow she sensed it was different with Mandy than with the other ones. “She was.” J.R. really missed her. It was still surreal to him to believe that she was gone. Hence, he tried not to think about it too much. He wanted to change the subject. He didn't like thinking about Mandy. “Mama, I have a favor to ask.” “What's that?” “Well, with Jillian now being part of the family and all, I was thinking it would be good if she and Justin got a chance to know each other.” “I think that would be a wonderful idea. Perhaps we can have something here at Southfork.” “I haven't told Justin yet, though. About Jillian.” “I think you should tell him.” “I'm going to. Today. But I'm a little bit nervous about how he's going to react. After all, he just found out he was part of this family. Imagine finding out that now you have another sister you've never heard about.” “That's true. He still is very young. But you have to tell him. It's only fair, to both Justin and Jillian.” “Oh I'm definitely going to tell him. But I want him to know that this doesn't change anything with him. With the family. You know, mama. He might be a little scared that if Jillian is now part of the family, he might be forgotten about. Kids are like that sometimes.” “I remember quite well how you acted when Bobby was born.” Miss Ellie gave a smile, thinking back to how jealous J.R. was. He did have a point. Justin was at a very sensitive age. “I was hoping that you could help me in doing something nice for Justin, to let him know that how we all feel about him hasn't changed.” Miss Ellie considered what he was saying. It was a very good idea. “Perhaps I'll invite Cally and Justin over for lunch soon. We can all go see the Christmas Village in Dallas.” “I know that he doesn't have school tomorrow because of a teacher conference,” J.R. quickly replied. She was playing right into it. “Well, it's settled then. I'll call Cally right now and invite the two of them over. Are you going to tell Justin about Jillian tonight?” “I sure will. Thanks mama.” J.R. leaned down to kiss her on the cheek. Things were going according to plan.
Clayton turned around to walk back to the house and was surprised to see Ellie walking toward him. “Clayton, what on earth are you doing out in this cold? You'll catch your death out here.” “I'm perfectly fine Ellie. Just checking on everything out here.” “Checking? Clayton, that's what we have a foreman for.” Clayton wasn't in the mood to argue with his wife. “Our new foreman isn't doing his job, in my opinion.” “Oh, he's doing just fine,” Ellie argued. “This ranch needs another foreman like Ray. It just hasn't been running as smoothly as it was back then.” Ellie smiled at Clayton's determination. “It's fine Clayton—all in your imagination. Now, let's go back inside. The wind is picking up and it looks like it may snow any minute now.” Clayton grumbled and then changed the topic as they started on their way back to the house. “You didn't seem at all surprised last night when J.R. made his little announcement.” “Well, living with him for as many years as I have, I've come to expect certain things from him and some things just don't surprise me anymore. But, I'm thrilled to learn I have another granddaughter and I intend to do everything I can to make her feel welcome. She's had a hard time and her mother just died.” “Something tells me that being J.R.'s daughter is only going to make her time even harder…”
“God, the thought of typing another operations budget makes me want to puke,” Janice said. “So don't. Skip work. It's not like they're going to fire you,” Todd replied. “Lucy's not even back from her honeymoon yet.” “Yeah, but my mother the drill sergeant is.” “Good point,” Todd chuckled. The two walked, hands held, in silence for a few moments. It wasn't uncomfortable: rather, it was comforting. Janice finally turned to Todd. “So, what are we?” “People,” Todd retorted. “No dipstick, I mean how do we stand?” “Oh, you mean relationship wise?” “Yeah.” Janice couldn't believe she had just said that. She was scared: did Todd feel as much as she felt? She hadn't known him that long, but she couldn't help but feel nuts about him. Should she have said that? She was making herself so vulnerable. What if he didn't feel as much as she did? She hadn't told him how she had felt, so she was safe, she rationalized. Janice tried to regain control of her thoughts—she felt like they were spinning out of control in no order at all. “What do you think we are?” Todd posed the question to her. “Nope. Ball's in your court.” She didn't want to be the one to let the bomb drop. “I guess we're dating, then. I'd like to say we are.” Todd smiled at her. “Whew!” Janice sighed. “Glad we got that out of the way.” She hiked her purse up more on her shoulder. “For the record, I'm glad that we are.” Todd looked over at her. “Now that makes me happy.” They stopped and looked at each other. It was almost as if they were telepathic: Neither needed to tell the other how they felt at the moment. They embraced.
“I know the truth Christopher. I can feel it. Megan is my daughter.” Christopher hoped that wasn't true. They had just finished the paternity testing, but it would be several days of emotional agony before Christopher would know whether or not Pamela Rebecca was up to her old tricks and had tampered with Megan's blood work. “I guess we'll know for sure soon. But thanks. Now, I'm gonna go up to the cancer wing and check on Karen…” John Ross nodded and then Christopher went to the elevator and pressed the fourth floor button. Seconds later, he walked out into the fourth floor lobby and went to the receptionists desk. “I'm looking for my wife, Karen Ewing.” “I believe she's with a patient right now.” The woman took out a clipboard and flipped up several pages. “In room number four-twelve.” “Thanks.” Christopher walked several doors down until he came to the room. He peeked in the narrow window and saw that Karen was sitting next to a little boy. Christopher knocked and Karen came to the door. “Chris, hey. What are you doing here?” “Just checking up on my wife. Think you might be able to sneak out for a few minutes?” Karen looked back to Cole, then turned back to her husband. “Yeah, I think so. Cole, I'll be back in a few seconds, okay?” “Okay, don't be gone long though!” Karen shut the door. “Karen, we need to talk.” Karen pulled her clipboard against her chest. “What's up?” “Karen…stop it…please.” “Stop what?” “This casual front you're putting up…you've been doing it since you got back from rehab. Okay…let's not go into this right here. Is there a private place we can talk?” “Yeah. I have an office—a little office, believe it or not. All the counselors get…” “Let's go there.” Karen was perplexed. “Okay, but I only have a few minutes.” Christopher tried to take her hand in his, but was startled when she pulled hers away. He put his hands in his pockets and followed her down the corridor to her office. Once inside, they continued the discussion. “What gives?” Karen took a seat behind her desk. “What do you mean?” “You've been a living ice cube lately Karen. Just a few seconds ago you wouldn't even let me hold your hand. And I don't even like to say this, but in case you haven't noticed, we haven't even had sex since back before the big fight over West Star.” Karen was getting irritated. Who was he to come here and disrupt her perfect workday with their non-existent marital problems? “There is nothing wrong with us.” “Yes there is. We've been married only a year. If our marriage is having problems already, then we're doomed. Now come on, talk to me. It's really just started since you got back from rehab.” “I'm fine. I…I'm just feeling overly protective of myself since I got hooked on heroin again I think.” Christopher took her in his arms and kissed her. “You don't have to put up that barrier between us…I love you.” Christopher picked her up and put her on the desk, then kissed her again. Karen pulled away and the slid off the desk. “I can't do this right now…I need to get back to Cole.” In frustration, Christopher yelled out to her. “So, is another man going to come between us again? Only this time…he's just a little kid?” Karen was appalled. “That's not fair. Cole is dying from cancer and he needs me to be there for him…he has nobody else.” “I need you too.” “I'll see you tonight Christopher. Bye.” Christopher was left alone, wondering what their marriage was coming to. He then left the office, with every intention of stopping by a bar to get himself a drink.
“She's grown hasn't she Grandma?” “Yes she has, like a little weed. Megan, I've got some Christmas cookies baking in the oven and I think they're probably ready to come out. Do you want to help Grandma eat a few?” Megan nodded and John Ross laughed. “It seems like just yesterday when you were saying that to me.” “Well, it wasn't that long ago.” Ellie took Megan's hand and they walked into the kitchen together. John Ross followed. “Wow Meg, look at that one that looks like a Christmas tree…I bet you like that one don't you?” “Yeah.” “John Ross, have you and your Daddy patched things up yet?” “How did you know about that?” “J.R. told me. Now I don't want to be one to interfere, but I could see how much it was hurting him.” “Don't you understand my side of it? Don't you ever feel ashamed of him?” Miss Ellie laughed. “Sometimes. But deep down, J.R. is a very good man. That good side doesn't often get a chance to show itself, but I know it's there. He's worked hard to get where he is. I think J.R. feels like he has to make Ewing Oil the biggest. Jock ran it before he did and J.R. thinks he has some pretty big boots to fill…” John Ross was beginning to feel guilty. What if someday Megan turned against him like he did with his father? He could only begin to imagine how much that might hurt. “I think you're probably right.” “Don't let me influence your decision. You're a grown man who is perfectly able to make his own decisions.” “No…you're right. I think it's time I apologized to him for the things I said. Where is Dad anyway?” “Well, I assume he's at Ewing Oil.” “Okay. I've gotta stop by my office and check on the progress with the construction. Uncle Gary said he had something to talk to me about. Then, I'll drop by Ewing Oil and talk to Dad.” “Good. I hope everything turns out fine between you two. I'll take care of Megan while you're gone.” “Thanks Grandma.” John Ross grabbed his coat from the hanger near the door and went back out into the cold Texas morning.
Afton would send the butler out after the rest of the packages that filled her car. As she walked into the living room, she was surprised to see Cliff. “You're in earlier than I expected,” he said. “I might say the same thing about you. Didn't you go to the office today?” “No. I had a light schedule—just one meeting this afternoon, so I decided to take the morning off. I think Jack can handle anything that comes his way at the Clifford Group.” “Nice to see you put so much faith in your employees. Okay Cliff, we need to hide this tricycle before Megan finds it.” “How about in our closet…you go ahead and clear out a spot and I'll be right behind you with it.” Afton smiled and went upstairs. Cliff took this tricycle over his shoulder and followed her. Afton opened the door and frowned. “Maybe I should take some of this stuff to the Salvation Army drive that's going on this weekend…” Afton was referring to the racks and racks of clothes in the generously large walk-in closet. “Might be a good idea.” Cliff pushed back a rack of clothes. “Oh, what could this be?” “What?” “It's a little black box.” “A little black box?” “Yeah.” Cliff took the box from the closet and held it out in front of her. “Why don't you open it and find out what it is, while I clear out a spot for the tricycle.” Perplexed, Afton took the box and opened it—there was a diamond ring inside. “Oh my God, Cliff.” Cliff smiled. “Darn it, didn't realize that's what that was.” Afton's eyes were wide. She could tell Cliff knew all along what he was giving her. “What's it for?” He took the box from her, removed the ring, and put it on her finger. “Afton Cooper…I want you to be my wife—again.” Afton was instantly thrown into a state of shock. Finally, she regained her speech capabilities. “Cliff, I'd like that more than anything else in the world.” She threw her arms around him and they kissed.
“Looks like you've been busy. How is everything?” “Hectic. I'm beginning to think I shouldn't have gone to California for Thanksgiving. We're so behind with everything.” “No, not really. I checked the progress on the construction. We've got eight houses completed and two more nearing completion. All we need now is for someone to buy them and move in.” “Then is that the go-ahead? Do you want to start selling them?” “Absolutely. I think now is a great time…it's near the holidays. I'm sure there are people all over Dallas who are looking for a new home to spend Christmas in.” Gary was thrilled. After months and months of waiting, they could finally begin to profit from this business venture. Ewing & Ewing Construction was about to make them both a fortune. “Wonderful. I'll call the appropriate people and we'll start right away.” “Is advertising all squared away? I want this to be big—newspaper and television. I'm also gonna see about getting this all online—there's a big market there with lots of out-of-state people wanting to settle down in a rapidly-growing area like Dallas.” Meanwhile, across town, J.R. Ewing listened to the live feed of conversation he was getting from Gary's office. So he was finally going to sell. J.R. could now make his move. Having Lucy out of town was definitely a plus, but he knew John Ross might snag things up. He needed to get him out of town as well. J.R. continued to listen to the conversation. “Anyway Gary, I was just stopping by to check out things. I've got something I need to do—something I should have already done.” “What's that?” “I'm gonna make things right with my Dad. I shouldn't have blown up with him like I did.” Gary smiled. “Glad to see you're going to try to work things out with him. Good luck John Ross.” “Thanks. I just hope he'll forgive me.” John Ross left the office. J.R. turned off the live feed. This was perfect—almost too perfect. John Ross had obviously been feeling guilty about what he said. He'd probably also be perfectly willing to do anything to get back in his Daddy's good graces. When he came knocking, J.R. would definitely answer. Then the you-know-what could safely hit the fan. About fifteen minutes later, Sly's voice came over the intercom. “J.R., John Ross is here to see you.” J.R. pretended to be surprised, for realism's sake. “Oh? Well, send him right in.” John Ross entered the office and took a seat across from his father. “Dad…” “John Ross, I was kinda surprised to hear that you were here. What do you want? You know…despite our differences and current state, I'd still do anything to help you out.” J.R. was laying it on thick. “Do you need help with something?” John Ross felt like he was about two inches tall. He was really feeling guilty. “I'm sorry.” “Sorry?” “Yes. I'm sorry for everything I said to you. I didn't mean it…I'm not ashamed of you and I didn't mean what I said about Grandpa's legacy. I was just—frustrated.” “I'm sorry too Son. I know I haven't always been the best father, but I try.” “I feel terrible…I insulted you and Grandpa. And, I want to make it up to you—to both of you.” J.R. marveled at how easy this was all going to be. “Now John Ross, you know you don't have to make it up to me…your apology was enough.” “Are you sure?” “Well, of course.” J.R. swiveled his chair around to face the smaller replica of Jock's painting that hung in his office. “I believe your Grandpa would understand. At least, I'd like to think he would. Daddy was a very proud man who would have done anything for this company…” John Ross was about to crumble. His Grandpa had worked hard and sacrificed everything for the very company that he had insulted. Not only that, but he had talked down on the fact that Grandpa Jock HAD made that sacrifice. “I want to do something to make it up to him—something to help out Ewing Oil.” “John Ross, I don't know…” “Please? I'm not gonna have peace of mind until I do. Now, what can I do?” “Well, maybe there is something you can do. There's a nice little oil company based in New Orleans. Turns out that the owner, Matt Jerrickson, wants to sell. He's a young guy—recently got married and his wife wants to move over to Europe. I think a nice offer for his company might persuade him to sell to us. It's a small company, but it has several nice offshore wells and lots of holdings throughout Texas and Louisiana.” John Ross was deep in thought. “How do I figure into that?” “I was supposed to go down to New Orleans this weekend, but it turns out I'm not going to be able to. Now, Jerrickson is a tough man and I don't think he'd be willing to reschedule our meeting. If you really want to make it up to your Grandpa and this company, then you can go down there and meet with him and try to snag that company for us. Maybe you could take Melissa and you two could spend a few days down there.” John Ross jumped at the idea. “I'll do it. I just need to call Uncle Gary and make sure he's got everything under control before I leave.” J.R. smiled. “Oh, I'm sure Gary will be fine—just fine.” “When do I leave?” “The sooner the better.” “Tonight then.” “Sounds great. I'll call ahead to the airport and have them gas up the Ewing jet.” “Okay. I'll go tell Melissa and we'll pack. I want to try and leave around seven tonight, so we can have time to do some stuff in New Orleans. Then, I'll meet with Jerrickson tomorrow morning.” “We scheduled the meeting for tomorrow afternoon though. That's not a problem is it?” “Oh no,” John Ross said. “No problem at all. It'll give me and Melissa a chance to sleep in.” “Alright then Son.” John Ross turned to leave. “Oh, John Ross.” John Ross stopped and turned around. “Yeah?” “Thanks for helping me out. It means a lot to me and I know your Grandpa would be proud.” John Ross smiled and left, leaving J.R. to triumph alone. Now, he could pull out the heavy artillery with Gary and John Ross wouldn't be there to bail him out. When he got through with him, Gary would run right back to California with his tail between his legs. Plus, J.R. would acquire an oil company that would up Ewing Oil's net worth by a good 10%. But, that wasn't the best part. No, that was just an added bonus. By this time next week, J.R. would have a little more insurance against Sue Ellen-and be well on the way to getting his annoying niece Lucy out of Ewing Oil for good…
“Grandma!” Justin ran over and gave Miss Ellie a big hug. Clayton was standing behind her. Cally greeted him. “Well, I'll leave you ladies—and gentleman—alone. I've got to go into Dallas on some errands,” Clayton said. “I'll see ya later, Clayton,” Cally said as her former stepfather in law left. “Hello Cally, how are you doing?” Miss Ellie warmly smiled. “I'm fine, Miss Ellie, thanks.” Cally always felt much better when she saw Miss Ellie. She was so comforting. Ellie leaned down towards Justin. “Why don't you come in the kitchen with me for a second. I want to show you my special chili that I'm making….I'll share my secret ingredients with you!” “Cool!” Justin darted off to the kitchen, with Miss Ellie following him. Walking, of course. Left alone for a moment, Cally marveled at the tenacity of her son. He survived a move to Dallas, the discovery about the father and family he never knew, and now J.R. inform him that he has a long lost sister to add to the list. Cally had never met Jillian, or Mandy Winger. But Sue Ellen had mentioned Mandy before. One of J.R.'s mistresses. It made Cally frown. “Well honey, how're you doing?” It was J.R. He was descending the stairs. Cally thought no one was home. She ignored him. “What's wrong darlin'? Cat got your tongue?” His tone was filled with condescension. “I thought you'd be at work.” “Came to say hi to my boy.” “It must be hard for you with all these sons an' daughters poppin' out. First James, then Justin. Now Jillian.” “Justin wasn't my fault. Blame lies on you.” “I reckon it does, you're right. But what kind of role model is this for Justin---two children from affairs?” “One. I wasn't married to Sue Ellen when James was conceived.” “OK, one! That's more than enough. What kind of message does that send to my son?” “He doesn't know the details of what happened. He just knows that he has an older sister now, from a time before I even knew you. He's not confused.” “You wouldn't know that J.R. You hardly know him!” He always could make her blood boil. “Calm down honey. You're getting' all red in the face. If there's anyone that you should be worrying about influencing my boy is that idiot Barnes. While you're over there living in his guesthouse, he tried to drill right across the street. How's that for a good example?” Teresa, who entered the hallway quietly, interrupted their bickering. Cally and J.R. both turned their attention towards her. “Ms. Harper, I've made some lemonade for you. Would you like me to bring it onto the patio? Mrs. Farlow and Mr. Harper are there.” “No thanks, Teresa,” Cally replied. “I'll grab it in the kitchen. I'll be right there. I have to go to the ladies room.” Cally shot J.R. another hateful glance before heading out to the hallway. Teresa quietly went up the stairs. J.R. saw his opportunity to move. He quickly made his way to the kitchen, where he checked to make sure that no one was around. Then he quickly removed the vial of pills that Dominique had given him. He broke two in half, just as Dominique had instructed, and mixed it into Cally's lemonade. It took ten seconds. As he put the vial back into his pocket, J.R. smiled to himself. Both Justin and his mother hated lemonade—he knew that. With no one else home, and not a great deal of lemonade there, Cally would surely finish the whole thing, including the contents that he had just added. He thought back to his conversation in the park with Dominique: “What are those?” He asked of the tiny bag of pills she was dangling in front of him. That's just what he wanted.
She had been searching through newspaper and magazine clippings all day. Bryan was spending the day trying to find work. Despite his success in Alaska, drilling work was not easy to come by, especially if you were a drilling manager. He could probably find a job in another country quite easily—the Middle East, South America---but that would require moving. They had just bought a new house in Dallas. And it was all because of that stupid mayor, Barbara told herself. She had learned much more about Donna Dowling than she ever wanted to, tracing her back through the years: Her marriage to the dead Senator; her years in Dallas where she was married to a Ray Krebbs and worked with the Texas Energy Commission; Her two bestsellers; Her first husband, the former Governor. How did she know her then? It seemed that Donna traveled in very different circles than she ever did in her time in Dallas. Barbara wiped her eyes as she flipped past another microfiche slide. She had been there for hours. And then it caught her eye. It was only a small blurb, from 1973. But it clearly showed Donna McCullum, very young, and looking both lost and determined. The headline had a quote about a Sam Culver fundraiser that she was organizing. Barbara assumed that this was during the time when she first met Sam, as previous articles she read stated that they began their romance when he met her at a political event. The article gave a brief statement about Donna's past, where she was from, and how she had left her studies at the University of Texas early due to a family tragedy. In an instant, it clicked. She remembered, and then she smiled. Donna Dowling was going to be very, very sorry.
Her mind kept wandering. First she started thinking about Justin, and then her mind just went, first to her brothers, and then she started thinking about Haleyville. It seemed like she spent HOURS thinking about Haleyville, and how pretty it was there. She loved painting the mountains. Why was time passing so slowly? It seemed like years had gone by. And why was she so hot? “Cally, what do you say that we all take a drive into Dallas to look at the Christmas Village? Justin has never seen it. I think it will be fun.” “Village?” Cally said, a little emptily. Village…..Haleyville…..her job, as a waitress. Where she met J.R……. “Yes, it's a lot of fun. It's a miniature village that they set up near Central Dallas Plaza. When it's all lit up it's really quite cute.” “Please, mom. PLEEEEEEASEEEEEE!” Justin pleaded. “Sure,” Cally smiled. She felt very happy all of a sudden. A little confused too, though. But everything seemed OK. “Would you mind driving though?” Miss Ellie asked. “My car is being worked on, and Clayton's still in town.” What was she looking like to Miss Ellie? Cally was very worried. She felt like she was floating on a cloud---was she overtired? She tried to think, but she couldn't. She just kept drifting, and drifting. Her thoughts always came back to Haleyville, and J.R., and that field. That's where it all changed. But Miss Ellie! What would she think? “Sure Miss Ellie, Oh sure.” Cally quickly responded. Justin bolted for the car, and Cally got up, stumbling just a little bit. Miss Ellie kept silent, but she was a little concerned. Why was Cally acting so strangely?
“Eric? Why are you at Cliff's house?” It was Lucy. She was trying to get in touch with John Ross and Sue Ellen had said he might be at Pamela Rebecca's house. Of course, Lucy had questioned that and Sue Ellen told her about Megan. “Lucy! It's great to hear your voice! Congratulations, I hear you're a married woman now!” On the other end of the line, Lucy looked out at the Australian skyline. Neil was down at the beach, getting a tan. Lucy was eager to join him, but she hadn't talked to Eric in so long. She had quite a lot to ask him. “Thanks. Listen, Eric, why are you at Cliff's? This is his number.” She probably should have asked him a million other things, but this was foremost on her mind. What the hell was he doing there? Was Afton wrapped up in all of this? “Ready for a shocker? Sit down.” Lucy took his advice. “Cliff's my father.” “WHAT?” Lucy shouted through the phone. She couldn't believe it. “I've known for a while. I didn't think it was the right time to tell anyone until now, though.” Eric's tone of voice was calm, in stark contrast to Lucy's on the other end of the line. “How did this happen?” “Well, Lucy, you see a man and a woman…” Eric laughed. “You know what I mean,” Lucy quickly bounced back. Marilee and Cliff slept together? “My mother and my father had an affair, years ago. That's all I know. Mom told me a while ago, but like I said, the time was never right until now.” “I can't believe this!” She really couldn't. She and Eric had shared a mutual attraction to each other, and Lucy was wary to admit that a little flicker was still there. Eric was charming and handsome, but he was not Neil. Still, to think that she almost developed a relationship with him---Cliff's son! She would have slept with father and son! That's worse than J.R.! “So, I'm living here temporarily,” Eric stated. “Must be a blast over there. How's Afton and Pamela Rebecca?” She said, with a little bit of mockery in her voice. “They've been really great. Pamela Rebecca has been acting like a real sister to me.” Lucy decided not to pursue that subject any further---obviously there were differences of opinion between the two of them on those two. “So, how are you feeling?” “Full use of legs back. Can wiggle my toes and everything,” Eric proudly stated. “That's wonderful! Was it hard in recovery?” “Just a LOT of physical therapy. But I'm well now, and that's all that matters. I'm ready to resume my life again. I think I'm going to start working at the Clifford Group.” “Oh, that's great. What about StoneHurst?” Lucy asked. “Went belly-up.” “What?” Lucy had been away from Dallas for too long! “Actually, it was going to go out of business, so my mom sold it. She'll be fine though. She's got enough money to last her a lifetime.” The two continued to chat for the next twenty minutes, with Lucy describing how she met Neil and how her tenure at Ewing Oil was going. Eric talked a bit more about his physical therapy, but finally the subject came back to Ewing Oil. “So are you coming back soon?” He asked. “Yeah, honeymoon's almost over. Then it's back to the grind of the office. I'm looking forward to it though. I'm sure J.R. has been up to trouble since I've been gone.” Lucy said sarcastically. “Janice keeps things under control for me, though.” She added. “Who?” “Janice Kelly, my secretary. She's great. She's really funny. I'd introduce you to her, but seems like she's no longer single. Todd Foster beat you to the punch.” “Oh really?” The mention of Todd's name got Eric's attention. “They're dating?” “Yeah. I talked to Janice today and she's on cloud nine. I'm totally jealous of her. Todd's a great guy---and what a butt!” Lucy laughed. “Don't let Neil hear that though.” “Oh, it'll be our little secret.” Eric smiled. His mind was other places though. He'd get his revenge with Todd, and now he knew how.
In the passenger seat, Miss Ellie looked over at Cally. Her driving had been very shaky and laborious ever since they got into the car. Frankly, Miss Ellie was getting a little scared. Cally seemed so distant. And her eyes, they were so glassy. She hated to think it, but Cally's behavior was reminding her so much of Lucy when she was a Senior in high school and was taking those horrible drugs…..but Cally would never do such a thing. Would she? Justin had fallen asleep in the back. He was worn out from a day of riding and running around. Cally started to laugh. It started out as a giggle, but then it became a long, winded laugh. She didn't even know what she was laughing about, but everything was so funny! And so relaxing. It was like all her worries floated away. “Cally, what's wrong?” Now Miss Ellie was getting scared. “What?” Cally managed to mumble through her tear stained laughs. Even though, it still sounded distant and remote. “Cally, I think you should pull over. I can drive the car now.” “What are you talking….about?” Her words were drawn out. What was wrong with her? Cally didn't care though…she felt SO relaxed. “I'm fine. I reckon we're almost there, right?” Just as she finished her sentence she swerved the car for no reason. “Cally, pull over, please.” Miss Ellie pleaded. Something was not right. Cally seemed too distant, too unfocused on the road. “Cally, pull over now.” Miss Ellie's voice was stern. There was something not right here. Cally swerved the car again. Cally heard Miss Ellie's voice through her haze, and she knew she had to do as she was told. There was something wrong with her. She had to get control. Everything was still a big jumble in her head, but she knew that she needed to just let go: Let Miss Ellie drive. Let Miss Ellie drive, and she'd get some sleep. Everything would be clearer after some sleep. Her eyes were even starting to droop a bit. Somehow, Cally managed to pull over to the side of the road, where she looked at Miss Ellie. “I'm sorry,” was all she said.
As he neared the entryway to the hallway, he could hear his mother greet Clayton. Her tone of voice indicated that she was concerned about something. Clayton obviously picked up on it as well, as indicated by his greeting. “Ellie, what's wrong?” “Clayton, I'm scared. Cally was acting so strange today.” “What? What are you talking about?” “Ever since lunch, she just seemed so distant. She had this glassy look in her eyes, and she just seemed to not be with any conversation. It was like her mind was somewhere else” “Where is she now?” “Upstairs. She's taking a nap. Justin went to see a movie with Ray, Jillian, Lucas, and Margaret. But there was something else. In the car…it was so frightening.” Ellie was almost gasping, as if what she was saying was taking a toll on her. “Ellie, calm down,” Clayton tried to reassure her. “What happened?” “We all went to go see the Christmas Village in Dallas, and I asked Cally to drive. She agreed, but I should have driven. She was even distant at that point. But we got into the car, and she wasn't even paying attention to the road. It was like she was drunk, but not.” “Was she drinking?” “No, not at all, and she was fine when she got here this morning. She swerved a bit off the road, and couldn't stop laughing. Finally I told her to pull over, and I drove us back. She said she wasn't feeling well, so I let her take a nap upstairs. She's still asleep. Clayton, it was so frightening. There was something wrong. I can't explain what, but she wasn't acting right.” “Do you think something happened? Did she have a bad confrontation with J.R.?” Of course Clayton would blame it on him, J.R. thought to himself. The idiot. Within earshot, and unknowingly being observed by her son, Miss Ellie responded. “Not that I know. But that doesn't even matter. She wasn't upset. She was laughing when she was driving, for no reason. It was like she was on some sort of drug.” “Do you think she's taking drugs?” “Cally? No. She was fine when she came over, and I was with her the whole afternoon. It was gradual. She just slipped away, over time. It scared me. I don't know what to do.” Unseen by J.R., Ellie went to hug her husband. Holding her, Clayton said “There isn't anything we can do right now. We'll just see how she is when she wakes up, and over the next few days. We just have to make sure to watch out for her, and make sure that she is OK.” “I'll make sure she's not,” J.R. thought to himself. He didn't like that Cally was driving, and putting his mama and Justin in danger. But no one was hurt, thankfully. Next time he'd plan things better. But the most important objecting was achieved: Miss Ellie was starting to question Cally's behavior. Dominique had said Sue Ellen stopped by Cally's the other day, and saw her go hysterical---she watched it all through the cameras. Others were getting involved now. Soon, no court in Dallas would let a crazy woman like Cally Harper keep his boy.
“So tell me about Donna Dowling,” Barbara asked. “The mayor?” Afton asked in response. “Yes. She's the one that shut down Cliff's operation. Thanks to her, Bryan doesn't have a job.” Barbara said this almost patronizingly. “I've never really spoken to her. We've been introduced, but never had a real conversation. She seems nice enough. She was married to J.R.'s half-brother. I told you that, though.” “Does she have enemies in this town?” Barbara really didn't need to be subtle with Afton. She was too self-absorbed to suspect anything. “Looking to make friends out of common enemies?” Afton laughed, before she took a sip of her drink. Barbara didn't respond, so Afton continued. “She's practically a saint in this state. Everyone loves her. It's kind of sickening. But I know J.R. can't stand her. He used to bitch about her all the time.” Afton realized she probably shouldn't have added that last sentence. Not many knew about her affair with J.R. years ago, and no one else needed too. “I guess you knew J.R. pretty well,” Barbara surmised. “That was a long time ago, when I first came to Dallas. Way before Cliff,” Afton defended. Afton conveniently left out the part about her more recent affair with J.R. from just a year ago. “But he hates her,” Barbara stated again. “Why?” “J.R. hates anyone who's ever gotten in his way. Years ago she used to be on the Texas Energy Commission and tried to stop some work that he was doing at Ewing Oil. I don't know the details. Plus, she's always told him off when he needed it, and she used to be married to Ray, who J.R. doesn't like either. He hates half his family, so it's not surprising.” Afton said this all very nonchalantly. “J.R. is pretty big in this town, right?” “He knows everyone. Everyone owes him something or another. It makes a big difference whether you're his friend or his enemy. Just ask Cliff.” Barbara Safi just sipped her drink, and thought about what she knew of Donna Dowling, nee McCullum. J.R. Ewing would probably be someone that would find that information very valuable.
“Mr. Wentworth, I've found some very interesting information. Pam has a brother by the name of Cliff Barnes. But, that's not the thing. They are both the children of Rebecca Wentworth.”Suddenly realizing that he had drifted off into a daydream, Rex picked up the phone and dialed. “Hello?” came a woman's voice. The accent was American. “Iris Honey, we're going to the States. Pack your bags, we're leaving tonight.” “What? Why?” “Just do it. You may be of use to me down there.” Rex hung up the phone.
“I hope you don't mind that I just asked you to lunch, and not Jack. There's something I wanted to talk to you about.” Miss Ellie said all this as she sat down, and placed the napkin on her lap. “Is everything OK?” Sue Ellen asked. Miss Ellie's tone of voice on the phone didn't indicate that there was anything wrong. “I'm sorry to start off the meal with this, but I'm very worried about Cally.” Immediately Sue Ellen wondered Miss Ellie had noticed strange behavior as well. She decided to keep quiet, and rather let her former mother-in-law speak first. “Yesterday she came to Southfork with Justin. We were all going to spend the day together and go to the Christmas Village, because I wanted Justin to feel like he was still loved and not forgotten, with Jillian just being made part of the family.” Miss Ellie took a sip of her water. “Through the whole day Cally just seemed to get more and more….distant is the only word that I can think to describe her.” “Distant?” “Yes. She would lose focus. Her eyes seemed very glassy and far away. It was as if she wasn't there, mentally. Like her mind was somewhere else.” “Maybe she was just preoccupied.” Sue Ellen wanted to play devil's advocate, to get the whole story. “It wasn't just that. There was something else going on. Something wasn't right.” “Did anything else happen?” “Yes. We were all driving to go to the Christmas Village---Cally was driving because my car is in the repair shop. Sue Ellen, it was frightening. She wasn't paying attention to the road. She was driving, but very sloppily. Swerving a lot. And then she started laughing. And for no reason.” “What happened?” Sue Ellen was alarmed at the trend that she and Miss Ellie had observed with Cally. It was almost as if their friend was becoming unglued. “I made her pull over and then I drove us back to Southfork. Cally went upstairs and took a nap. She woke up and I tried to talk to her about what happened, but she was very quick to take Justin and leave. I think she was embarrassed. But after her nap she was fine, like nothing had ever been wrong. I've been meaning to call her today, to see if she's well.” Miss Ellie fumbled with her napkin, as if she were uncomfortable with what she was thinking. “Sue Ellen, do you think Cally is involved with, well….drugs?” “No, not at all.” Sue Ellen was sure of that. “That's not like Cally and she would never do that. Not to Justin. There's something else going on. I noticed that she was acting strange the other day.” Sue Ellen went on to tell Miss Ellie about her experience at Cally's house, where their friend seemed to get hysterical, claiming that her paintings had been replaced in the middle of the night with other ones. “I called her later that day, after she woke up from a nap, and she seemed perfectly calm. Maybe she was hiding something from me, I don't know. But it was scary too.” “I'm not sure what we should do.” Miss Ellie was very rarely indecisive. “I'm not sure either,” Sue Ellen responded. But at the back of her mind, she knew that something was not right here. This behavior was not like Cally. She had never acted so strangely, or rather, as if she had a mental illness, which was what appeared to be the case. No, there was something else going on here, Sue Ellen rationalized. What she didn't like to think about was that nagging suspicion tugging at the back of her mind. J.R.
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