Rex and Iris Wentworth Jillian Renfro Gary and Val Ewing Janice Kelly Gregor Dervish Stefan Lentini 'Angel' Neil Lancaster Justin Ewing Melissa McSween Eric Stone Lucas Krebbs Margaret Krebbs Betsy Ewing Bobby Ewing II Jack Ewing and Dominique
Craig Byrne and Justin Stiles
Mark Hill Jesse Murray and Justin Stiles
Craig Byrne Kristin Cashmere Chad Cox Karin Schill and Andy Smithers
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Merry Christmas everybody! Just a note about tonight's episode. Episode 77, "Fallout", is our very first musical episode. What does that mean you ask? In order to get you into the Ewing Christmas spirit, we've sprinkled various mood enhancing carols throughout the episode!
Any time you see this graphic: If the previous music hasn't stopped playing by the time you reach the next music selection, just click "stop" on the midi player that should pop up.
“Did you have fun today Honey?” “Oh yeah. Ray and I bought a few heads for the ranch. I enjoyed it though.” “That's good.” Pam began to massage Bobby's shoulders. “Bobby, we had visitors today.” “Oh?” “Yes. Our good friend Rex showed up.” “What? Here?” “Yes. There was a woman with him—his wife, Iris.” “Why on earth did Rex come to Southfork? Don't tell me he was just in the neighborhood.” “He wanted to apologize and get to know Cliff and me better. He also said he wanted to visit Katherine's grave.” “And you didn't buy that, did you?” Pam frowned. “Rex and Iris are staying here at Southfork.” “WHAT? Pam, that is the craziest thing you've ever done. We don't know what kind of characters those two are. Yet, you invite them both to stay at Southfork.” “At least that way we can keep a close eye on them.” Pam embraced her husband. “Please don't be angry. We've gone through this before with Katherine.” “I'm not angry…just worried. I don't like this guy. But, you're right. At least here we can keep a close eye on him. How does Momma feel about this?” “She was okay with it. She and Iris are getting along nicely.” “How is this Iris person? Anything like Rex?” “No. Not at all. She comes across as a kind and caring person.” “Could be an act.” “It could be, but I don't think so.”
“Aunt Val, I can't believe I betrayed him like that.” Val looked ahead. “You did the right thing. Your father had no right to do what he was trying to do.” “But look how it ended up. Sue Ellen got the 7.5% and believe me, I did NOT want that to happen.” “Jill, I think you should give Sue Ellen a chance. She's a really great lady once you get to know her.” “Something tells me I don't want that chance. So, what are your plans now that Gary's project is over?” “We'll be going back to Knots Landing. I'm afraid there's not much keeping us here in Dallas any longer.” “Staying for Christmas?” “I'm not sure. I'll have to talk to Gary.”
She tried to brush aside her fears and focus on shopping. Lucy was in high spirits, having just returned from her honeymoon. Cally was happy for her: Neil was a great guy. “So, how's married life suit ya?” Cally asked, her Southern drawl particularly thick. “Just fine,” Lucy responded, inspecting a perfume bottle. She looked at her friend. “Neil is great. I couldn't have asked for a better guy---he's thoughtful, sensitive, funny. And what a butt!” “Lucy,” Cally laughed, almost a bit embarrassed. It was nice to know that some things never change. “What about you? Get all your Christmas shopping done?” “Just finishing up now. I reckon I've looked everywhere trying to get the perfect gift for Sue Ellen. She's been real sweet to me ever since I got back to Dallas. I wanted to get her something nice.” “Get her a congratulatory card. For not marrying Cliff, that is.” Cally could sense there was still some bitterness in Lucy's voice where Cliff was concerned. “Are your mama and Daddy staying in Dallas for Christmas?” Cally asked as she and Lucy headed toward the cash register. “Yep. Then they're moving back to Knots Landing. I just don't think Dallas is ever going to be their home---at least not with J.R. around.” Lucy paused for a moment. “You know, with all the craziness since I've been home, I really haven't talked to mama or daddy. They asked me how my trip was, but we haven't talked more than five minutes at a time. I'll have to go to dinner with them or something. Daddy seemed really upset about something, but he didn't mention anything….” Lucy's speech was interrupted by a shrill buzz that registered from the credit card reader of the cashier. Cally's credit card had been rejected. “I'm sorry ma'am,” the cashier said. “The card has been declined.” “What?” Cally asked, in shock. “I hardly ever use this card. I pay all my bills!” The cashier, obviously not a fan of her retail job, looked exasperated. “I'm sorry, there's nothing I can do. I would contact your credit card company. Next!” Lucy helped to lead a shocked Cally away. “Did you miss a payment?” Lucy asked. “No!” Cally responded loudly. Her response shook and alarmed Lucy a bit. “I never miss a payment. I'm real good with my bills, Lucy. Or at least my credit ones. I never charge more than I can pay---and I haven't received a notice that I'm due late on any bills! I don't understand.” “It's probably a computer glitch. You know, all that Y2K stuff. I'll charge this to my card,” she took the scarf Cally was purchasing for Sue Ellen, “And you can just pay me back. We'll go back to your place and settle this.” Cally hoped it would be as simple as that.
J.R. sat in the living room, reading the morning paper while he sipped on his daily cup of coffee. He heard someone enter the room and looked over his paper to find his daughter standing there. “Come to rub salt in the wound in my back honey?” “Daddy, I'm sorry.” “Sorry? Sorry doesn't make up for the fact that you betrayed me—your own father. What on earth possessed you to do that?” Jillian grew angry. What right did he have to be mad at her? “What possessed me? It's called a conscience, something you obviously don't have.” “Oh? Believe it or not, I do have a conscience. Right now it's telling me I shouldn't disown you—but I don't know if I should listen to it.” “Oh yeah? Well maybe next time you'll learn not to blab off to the first person you come in contact with. I may not know much about the oil business—or business in general, but if I was in your shoes, I wouldn't have told anybody about an underhanded deal like that.” That stung. J.R. knew she was right. That had been a bad move on his part. But damn it, he thought he could trust his own daughter! “You have any idea how much this hurts me?” Jill rolled her eyes. “I wasn't wild about the idea of Sue Ellen getting the percentage—you know how I feel about her. But, I am thrilled that Uncle Gary got such a nice profit from your attempt at ruining his plans. Looks like this time, your loss was his gain.” Jillian briefly paused. “But look…it's the holidays. This will be the first Christmas I've ever spent with my biological father—and the first one that I won't be able to spend with Mom. Please tell me you're not going to shut me out of your life, just because I helped save my aunt and uncle from financial ruin.” J.R. looked into his daughter's eyes and could see the sadness that was developing over the loss of her mother. “No, I don't suppose I could do that—wouldn't let my only daughter slip through my fingers like that.” For just one second, J.R. felt a minor feeling of guilt, for ruining Gary and John Ross' plans—but only for a second. “Look Jillian, I'm sorry I got so upset with you.” Father and daughter embraced. “Well, I'm don't regret helping Uncle Gary, but I am sorry I had to hurt you in the process. I love you Daddy.” Jill pulled away. “Now, if you'll excuse me, I've got a bit of Christmas shopping to do.” Jillian smiled and turned to leave the room. J.R. called out to her. “Oh Jillian…” “Yeah Daddy?” J.R. took out his wallet and removed his credit card, handing it over to her. “Don't burn it up—it's just plastic.” “Oh my God…you are the best!” Jill grabbed the credit card and eyed it, not believing it was real. “Thanks!” As she left, J.R. smiled. Things might not be so bad after all. From the looks of things, he would definitely be getting custody of Justin. Gary and Val were more than likely on their way back to California and Lucy was just a minor thorn in his side—he knew he could take care of her if need be. And, he now had a daughter who might just share a few of his traits, but in a different sort of way. “Well J.R. Ewing, we finally meet again after all these years.” J.R. spun around to see Iris Wentworth walk into the room. His eyes grew wide with disbelief. “Oh my Gawd…” Iris smiled. “I always loved that Texas accent—and that Texas hospitality.” J.R. dropped the newspaper onto the coffee table and stood up. “Iris? What are you doing back in Dallas—hell, what are you doing here at Southfork?” Iris grinned. “You might say I came back to settle an old score. Do you remember the scenario?” J.R.'s thoughts flashed back to 1996, right before he had returned to Dallas after living in Europe. “I remember it well.” “If I remember, you left rather abruptly. Now I see why. You've got a wonderful place here. Why would you even leave it in the first place?” J.R. ignored the question. “What kind of score have you come back to settle?” Iris wrapped J.R. in her arms and kissed him. “This one,” she said, in between kisses. Finally, she pulled away. “I was so lonely after you left. Do you have any idea how it is, living in that huge house with just Rex? He was never home. I thought I'd go insane without you there.” Iris smiled. “Tell me J.R., did you ever entirely get rid of the devil?” J.R. remembered confiding in her about his encounter with Adam. “Nope…the devil's still inside me,” J.R. laughed. “Good. Because what would J.R. be like if he wasn't?” Iris joined him in a laugh, but her face soon went sour. “Why did you leave? Why after five years?” J.R. remained silent. Finally, he spoke up, but didn't answer her question. “Where is Rex? Tell me you divorced that loser…” “No J.R., I didn't and I can never…he would ruin me. I'd have nothing.” “Where is he then?” “He's here at Southfork.” J.R. coughed, nearly choking on his coffee. “Iris, what in God's name is Rex doing at Southfork?” “I swear J.R., I had nothing to do with it. Rex is here to see Pam.” “Pam? Why in hell would he have to see Pam about? How does he know Pam?” J.R. appeared deep in thought. “Don't tell me that he's related to…” J.R. laughed. “No, couldn't be. But, hell, he's crazy enough to be a relative of Katherine's.” “He is. We didn't know it until a while ago. Katherine and Rex shared the same father. Rex was the product of an affair.” J.R. sipped more of his coffee. “I never imagined. Sure, I thought about the Wentworth name, but that's a fairly common name. I think one time I even asked Rex if he knew any Wentworths in Dallas…and he said no.” “Either he was lying, or he really didn't know about it at the time. My husband is hard to figure out—you know that as well as I do.” “As long as he doesn't know about our affair.” Iris hoped that was true. Rex was a huge power in Paris—he was the J.R. of Paris. He knew of almost everything that went on in the town. “Yes. J.R., I'm just happy to see you again, no matter what the reason why you left me in Paris. I…I just want to spend Christmas with a real family—and a man that once cared for me…and maybe still does.” Iris shot him an inquisitive glance. J.R. smiled, but was still uneasy about the whole situation. If Rex knew…but Dallas was J.R. Ewing's town.
“Where did you get that,” Janice asked, half-laughing. She was indicating the apron. “My thrift store days. When I lived in Boston, I didn't really have money. I had to be selective with my wardrobe, so I did the Salvation Army rounds.” “And you bought aprons?” “I saw it, decided it was the ugliest thing that was ever made, and figured I should own it. I guessed it would have some sort of value later, being so tacky.” Todd laughed at himself. Janice couldn't help but join in. The two talked for another ten minutes as Todd prepared whatever mysterious concoction he was making. All Janice could see was it involved a lot of butter and some milk. “I guess you know I'm lactose intolerant,” she said sarcastically. Todd just looked over and smiled. And then Janice realized something, in that instant that he smiled at her. She really cared about him. But it was something more. She missed him when he was gone. She thought about him as soon as she got up, and right when she went to bed. And he made her laugh. But he also made her feel special. Even if it was in silly ways, like this dinner. “Voila!” Todd said, placing a huge dish of Macaroni and Cheese in front of her. It looked very appealing. “This is the big mystery dish?” Janice asked in disbelief. “It's damn good,” Todd said, taking out a cigarette. “Restaurants could be built around my Macaroni and Cheese.” Janice smiled. She was in love with him. She laughed, a mixture of happiness about being and love and over the fact that she had an epiphany staring into a dish of Macaroni and Cheese. But she knew it now. She was in love with Todd. “What's so funny?” Todd asked, cigarette dangling from his mouth, and eyebrows arched as he searched for a lighter. Janice looked at him, and smiled. In that moment, everything that was feeling registered in her eyes. Todd stopped in his tracks for a moment. He knew what she was thinking, and what she was feeling. He was happy, but a little scared and excited. He was feeling the same thing. “Screw this,” he said, taking the cigarette out of his mouth and throwing it on the ground. Then, in an instant, Todd and Janice began to kiss, and eventually make love, a mixture of passion and emotion.
“Where's Justin?” Lucy asked. “Over at Southfork with J.R.” Cally said passively. Lucy was glad that didn't spark an angry reaction. Cally looked in her phone book, and flipped to the page where her credit card company was listed. Picking up the phone, she did a double take. There was no dial tone. “Huh?” She said out loud. “What's up?” Lucy looked up from the magazine she was flipping through. “There's no dialtone.” “Is there a power outage or something?” Lucy asked. There wasn't—the digital clock on the counter was still on. “It might be the phone.” Cally trotted into her bedroom and checked the phone in there. It was also off. What was going on? “Lucy, that one's off too. What do you think is wrong?” Lucy didn't know how to put what she was thinking. “Use my cell phone. Call the Phone Company.” Had Cally paid her bill? Five minutes later, Cally was on Lucy's cell phone with an operator, inquiring what the problem was. Lucy went to the bathroom, but even through the door she could hear Cally's voice rising, claiming that she had never received any bills. When Lucy came out a moment later, Cally was sitting at the kitchen table, a frustrated look on her face. “What happened?” Lucy asked. “They said I didn't pay my bills. But I never received a bill! Any bills---they said they sent me a bunch!” “Cally, are you sure?” How does one lose multiple phone bills? “Don't tell me you don't believe me!” Cally was getting frustrated. She tried to calm herself. “Can I use your cell phone to call the credit card Company?” She needed to figure out what was going on. “Sure.” Ten minutes later, Cally hung up. Apparently, the credit card Company had not received payment as well, after multiple billings. Cally didn't understand what was happening. Lucy was a little concerned. It was one thing for the Phone Company to shut her phone service off, but her credit card too? And to both claim that they had sent her multiple payment notices----that can't be a coincidence that they were both lost. “Lucy, you've got to believe me. I didn't get anything in the mail. All I've been receiving the last few weeks is junk mail!” Cally stated. She could sense her friend was starting to view her with some apprehension. Lucy didn't know how to handle the situation, so she figured it would be best if she left. “Cally, I'm sure this will all get worked out, and I'm sure there is a logical reason behind all of this. I should get going though—I'm going to try to find Daddy and have a talk with him. Call me if you need anything.” Lucy bid a still very confused Cally goodbye, hoping that her sinking feeling that something was very wrong proved to be just that---wrong. Meanwhile, in her hotel room, Dominique looked over Cally's bills and smiled to herself.
“Caught in traffic?” Rex snarled. “Curse this town Gregor. But enough about that, what do you have for me?” Gregor produced a folder labeled The Clifford Group and handed it over to Rex. “That's everything you could ever want to know about Cliff Barnes' company.” “Splendid. I'm sure this will come in handy. Thank you Gregor, you know you will be handsomely rewarded for your loyalties.” Gregor nodded. “Thanks. You know where to reach me if you need me.” With that, Gregor was off. Rex clasped the folder in his gloved hands. “Well Cliff Barnes, I wonder what you would think if your first wife were to suddenly come back into your life—with an old score to settle. Perhaps you'd be so distracted that I could take your company right out from under you?” Rex laughed. “Mother, your death will be avenged.”
It was true that his luck had been nothing but good since she came to him. He sized up the meager Christmas tree and hung another ornament on it. The small tree had been all he could manage to find—the snows had been too bad and he didn't want to risk straying too far from the cabin. Too bad he didn't have any Christmas music—that would have cheered up the place. He imagined Angel awakening and singing to him, but he doubted that would ever happen. He'd basically be spending Christmas alone again this year. He turned back to the makeshift bed and watched her breathing. It was then that he noticed there was a chill in the air and she was shivering. He tossed two more logs onto the fire and walked over to the unconscious woman, where he pulled the blanket up under her chin. He turned back to the fire and warmed his hands and thought back to Christmases long past. The small fireplace crackled and cast a warm glow all around the cabin. It was then that Stefan heard the sound behind him. He reeled around to see that Angel's eyes were beginning to open. His dream was finally coming true…and all in time for Christmas.
“Hey Ray, long time no see,” Lucy smiled. “Lucy! You're back! How was the honeymoon?” “Wonderful. Makes me not want to go back to Ewing Oil and get into the grind of things again. Well, actually, makes me not want to deal with J.R. that is.” Ray laughed. “Well, I'll tell you, he's been pretty tame since you've been gone. Surprising too, with Cliff trying to drill across the street and everything.” “What?” Lucy hadn't heard about this. “You don't know? Well, you were on your honeymoon when everything happened, I suppose you wouldn't know.” Ray looked down at his watch. “It's a long story. Remind me to tell you---will you be here for dinner tonight?” “I'll make it a point to be, if it means hearing this story.” Ray and Lucy bid each other goodbye.
Lucy pulled down the covers to see Neil still asleep, she watched him for a long time--she loved him so much. They were about to spend their first Christmas together and it took all her might not to reach over and wake him up. After watching her new husband sleep for awhile, Lucy got up and headed to the washroom, she did not even hear the phone ring as she brushed her teeth. Neil, still half asleep bolted to full consciousness when he heard the voice on the other end of the phone, in a half whisper he spoke. "What are you doing calling me here, are you insane!" The person on the other end only smiled. "I have been told that." "Listen, I can't talk. Lucy's in the other room and I said all I had to say to you in the letter I sent you from Australia. I have nothing further to say to you!" The smile left the other's face. "We'll talk, and it will be today, meet me at the park, you know the one I mean, our place at 2:30pm, or... your wife might just get an unexpected Christmas gift. Neil, don't try to screw me over." Neil hung up the phone just as Lucy returned from the bathroom. "What's up honey, bad news?" Neil composed himself and rose to give his new bride a morning kiss. "Sort of Hon, I've got to go into the office for awhile this afternoon." "It's Christmas eve, our first one together! Neil come on!" "I'm sorry Hon, it can't be helped." Lucy tried her best to pout, but it quickly turned into a grin. "Ok, ok, maybe I will check in with Janice myself today. I haven't had too much time for Ewing Oil since we got back, God knows what J.R has done since I've been away." Lucy reached for another kiss from her husband; the kiss was the beginning of a short return engagement to the bed.
“Hi Justin, is your mom here?” Sue Ellen asked. “Sure, hold on.” Justin ran from the door, screaming “MOM!!!!!!” at the top of his lungs. A moment later, Cally came to the door, looking casual in sweatpants and a sweatshirt. “Hey there,” Cally said, a little uneasy. She invited Sue Ellen in. Sue Ellen was just as uncomfortable. She didn't know what to do or what to say, but she knew that she needed to have this talk with Cally. Things weren't right. Cally could sense that Sue Ellen had something serious on her mind, so she asked Justin if he'd play in his room for a few minutes. Justin didn't seem to mind, quietly going into his room. “Cally, we need to talk.” Sue Ellen decided the straightforward approach worked best. “About what?” Cally's eyes darted around. “About what's been going on the last few weeks. Your…your behavior.” “What's that?” “Cally, come on. There's something going on. You haven't been acting yourself, and both Miss Ellie and I have observed it.” “It's the holidays. I just moved…” “I know, and that is probably causing a lot of stress, I'm sure. But look at what's happened. The time I came over with the paintings, for instance. There were five paintings, right here. You went nuts. Don't you remember? You claimed you didn't work on them, that they weren't yours. But think about it, whose could they have been?” “I don't want to talk about that.” She didn't want to admit that Sue Ellen had a point. “Then what about what happened with Miss Ellie, in the car? You almost got into an accident! And at the mall the other day…Cally, what's going on?” “Nothing!” “I'm here for you. I'm your friend. You can be honest with me.” “I am being honest with you. I swear, there ain't nothing going on!” “But there is!” Sue Ellen retorted. “I'm just as confused here as you may be, but I want to help. But I don't know what to do.” Sue Ellen looked her friend in the eye. “Is there something you're not telling me?” “You think I'm on drugs? You think I'm crazy?” Cally started throwing accusations. “I didn't say any of that.” “But that's what you're thinking. That's what you and Miss Ellie are both thinking, aren't you? I'm not stupid!” “Cally, you're getting hysterical.” “There's nothing wrong with me, Sue Ellen.” Cally calmed herself, if for no other reason than to not alarm Justin. “What about talking to someone.” “I don't need no head doctor. Not again.” She remembered the last time she went to see one. He was on J.R.'s payroll, and she wouldn't be surprised if the next one would be as well. “They're not a bad thing. I went to a psychiatrist for a while. Dr. Elby really helped me get some things straight.” “But I don't need to get anything straight! I just need Christmas to be over with, and to get my life settled and into a routine.” “Cally, you can't deny that there is something wrong. You haven't been yourself.” “You haven't seen me for ten years! How do you know who I am?” She had a point, but Sue Ellen knew there was something else there. It was not worth pressing it at the time, though. Cally was obviously not receptive. “Alright. I'm not going to press anything. But please. PLEASE. If you need to talk to someone, let me know. I want to help.” Cally didn't say anything. She didn't know what to say. Hell, she didn't know what to do. All she knew was that she thought she was going crazy. Sue Ellen wondered the same thing. She decided to leave Cally to herself for a while, while she went to deliver some packages she had picked up.
Upon pursuing her desk, checking mail and messages, Lucy determined that everything seemed to be running ok. For some reason this kind of bothered her. Lucy was determined to be useful to the company, and she had been gone for quite awhile, but...Ewing Oil chugged on without her. On her way Lucy stopped to see a package on the table by her office door. Lucy opened it to find a wonderful glass vase, a gift from Janice. "Shit." Lucy thought. "With my honeymoon and all the excitement I didn't even get a chance to get Janice a gift, but...I'll remedy that in the New Year." Lucy walked to the elevators and didn't bother to push the buttons, as she saw that the number two elevator was about to open. The doors opened and Sue Ellen stood there, hands full of packages. "Lucy, back at the office I see…” Sue Ellen smiled and struggled with her parcels as she walked into the lobby. "Sue Ellen, let me help you with those." Lucy walked forward and took some of the many parcels from Sue Ellen's arms. "What are you doing up here today?" "Well, I was here to deliver a few gifts, but I see the place is deserted." "Yeah, well, J.R is nowhere to be seen, so I guess the secretaries decided to take advantage of the situation. Good for them." Lucy smiled. Sue Ellen returned the smile. "God knows they deserve every break they can, working for that ex of mine. Hey Lucy, I'm famished, how about joining me for lunch? We haven't really had a chance to catch up since you returned from your honeymoon." "I would love to." With that the two women again arranged the parcels in their arms and headed to the elevators.
Donna licked her fingers and passed Ellie a bowl of homemade icing. Ellie noticed that Pam looked worried. “Well Miss Ellie, he was Katherine's brother, as you know. Apparently he didn't know about Katherine's death until I told him.” “And what is he doing in Dallas?” “He came to get to know Cliff and me better…or at least that was his story. Oh Miss Ellie, if you don't want him here, I'll ask him to leave.” Ellie smiled. “Not at all. If you think having him here will help you find out what he really wants, them I'm all for it. Besides, I'm enjoying the company of Iris.” On cue, Iris walked into the kitchen and smiled. “Hello Ladies. Wow, those smell fantastic. It's been so long since I've had any homemade cookies.” “Well these are almost done,” Donna said, scraping the icing from the bowl. “I couldn't help but overhear the last part of your conversation. If Rex and I are wearing out our welcome, we'd be glad to…” “Nonsense,” Ellie said. “We'll enjoy having you for Christmas.” Pam spoke up. “Iris, where is Rex anyway?” Iris rolled her eyes. “With him, your guess is as good as mine. I imagine he went out to take care of some business.” “In Dallas?” “Rex has business all over the world.”
“Wh…” “Sshh,” Stefan whispered. “Save your strength.” Stefan knew this was a true Christmas miracle, after all this time she had finally awakened—and tried to speak. “Where am I?” she said weakly. Stefan smiled and took her hand in his. “You are safe. Do not worry.” Stefan could see frustration and confusion in her eyes. “Do not be afraid. I have been taking care of you all this time and I won't let anything happen to you now.” “Who…who am I?” Stefan stared at her. He didn't really know her name and obviously she didn't either. “I have been calling you Angel—you look the part.” Angel looked bewildered. “Why can't I…remember?” Stefan frowned and thought back to the day he had found her—it had been so long ago, or so it seemed. “I'm not sure exactly what happened before I found you, but it appears that you had been on some sort of hiking or mountain climbing expedition—and then the slide happened. I found you unconscious and brought you back here to my cabin…”
"Lucy, this was nice, you know in all the years we've known each other, most of it living in the same house, we really never talked... I mean a real conversation." "I know, but if you remember, for most of that time we never really got along." Sue Ellen again smiled, this time with a bit of hesitation. "Well, I know you never really respected many of my choices, especially those surrounding your Uncle." "Yeah, that was main reason.... but there were others." Sue Ellen was not sure she wanted the conversation to continue in its present direction, but somehow could not resist asking...."Lucy, what do you mean?" "Well, the whole situation with Mickey, don't tell me you have forgotten?" Now Sue Ellen was not comfortable at all. "No, I haven't forgotten, I'll carry what happened to Mickey with me...always." "Me too Sue Ellen." "Why are you bringing this up now, we were having such a nice lunch?" "There's something else I've been meaning to talk to you about. I guess I've been unsure how to bring it up." "Well for Heaven's sake just say it." "It's Cliff." Sue Ellen knew what was coming, she had actually been expecting this long before now. "Lucy you and Cliff were over before we rekindled our relationship, you were long over him." "No, I wasn't. I am now…but just because I had moved on doesn't mean Cliff was out of my heart." "Well why on earth didn't you say something?" "Why didn't you? He and I were close to marriage, I would have thought you might have checked with how I was doing before you hopped back into bed with him." "We didn't exactly hop back into bed as you call it, but I'm sorry if it hurt you. I just figured you were over him. We Ewings should know being with someone another Ewing has been with is a big mistake." "You should have thought of that before you and Cliff began seeing each other." "Don't you mean see each other...again, remember he and I were together first." Lucy had taken this conversation as far as she wanted to...for now. "Sue Ellen I'm sorry, I was just curious, it just seemed so fast. I was confused." "Well, I'm glad you brought it up then, I want us to be close, we did always have one common bond." "Wanting to screw over J.R!" Both women laughed, "Yes", said Sue Ellen, "Screwing over ole J.R."
“This snow is beginning to come down pretty heavy.” John Ross turned up the car's heater and turned down the radio. Melissa rubbed his leg. “Your Dad is going to be so proud of you John Ross. I'm proud of you—and the way you pulled off that oil deal.” “I hope so Missy, I really do. Maybe this will make up everything to Dad. Oh my God…” “What?” “I just realized…” “Realized what?” “The paternity test results are supposed to be ready by today. I wonder if they've called Southfork.” Melissa frowned and immediately her thoughts drifted to Christopher. She hadn't seen him in several days, but she knew how much he was going to be devastated if Megan did turn out to be John Ross' daughter. “At least we'll know for sure.” “I think I'll call Southfork and check.” John Ross took out the cellular phone and dialed the number. “Southfork Ranch,” came Theresa's familiar voice. “Hi Theresa. It's John Ross. Can you tell me if there have been any messages for me since I've gone?” “Yes sir. Dr. Benson from Dallas Memorial called this morning.” “Thanks…did he leave a number?” “Yes.” Theresa proceeded to tell John Ross the number and he thanked her and hung up. Seconds later, he was on the phone with one of the nurses. “Yes, I'm trying to find out if my paternity test results are in…yes…John Ross Ewing…what…okay, just let me know.” “Well?” Melissa said. “Delayed.” “Maybe it's better that way.” “How can you say that Melissa?” “If things don't go your way, I don't want to see you get hurt during Christmas—better later.” “Megan is my daughter. I'm just doing this to satisfy Christopher.” Five minutes later, John Ross parked the car in the garage near the building that housed Ewing & Ewing Construction. He was anxious to see how Gary had handled things while he was away. Melissa buttoned her coat and followed him into the building. John Ross noticed several boxes stacked outside Gary's office. The door was opened and John Ross and Melissa walked in. Gary turned around. “Well, hi John Ross. Back already?” John Ross was confused. Gary appeared to be packing up his belongings—as if he were leaving. “Why are you doing that? What happened?” Gary frowned. “Hell broke loose when you left—I'm sorry.” “What? What the hell happened? Why are you packing up?” “I would say ask your father, but I doubt you'd get a straight story from him.” Melissa put her hand on John Ross' back. “Gary? What did J.R. do?” Anger was beginning to build up in Gary, once again. “The bastard sabotaged our deal, that's what he did. The land we built those houses on wasn't fit for an outhouse. J.R. had the reports faked so that it looked as if the land was perfect—then he yanked the rug out from under us. I was broke and there was nobody there to bail me out. But, your mother put a kink in J.R.'s plans when she came to the rescue—I sold my part of Ewing Oil to her.” John Ross was furious. “He sent me to New Orleans just to get me out of the way so I couldn't help you…God, I can't believe him.” John Ross turned and stormed away. Melissa followed him—someone had to do damage control.
“How long have you been drinking?” “How long have you known I've been drinking?” “For a while. I tried to ignore it, but yesterday was a dead giveaway.” “I'm trying to stop.” “I haven't been there for you like I should have Christopher. I was supposed to work this morning…” “Oh great…so our morning is cut short again?” “No. I called in sick,” Karen said with a smile. “Sick of not being able to spend any time with you. My job is important to me and so are those kids, but you come first.” Christopher took Karen's hand in his. “Now explain to me why we're walking in the snow in twenty degree weather?” “You are about to discover my secret passion.” “Passion?” “Ice skating.” Karen dropped the backpack that she was wearing and took a seat on a fallen tree trunk. She handed Christopher a pair of skates. “Try those on for size.” “Oh no. If you think you're getting me out on the ice, then you've lost your mind. A skating rink is one thing, but we're talking about a pond here. Ever heard of thin ice?” “And thin ice is exactly what you're gonna be treading if you don't come and skate with me.” Christopher smiled at his wife. “Karen, do we really have to do this?” He didn't need an answer. He could tell she meant business by the way she was strapping on her ice skates. Sighing, Christopher did the same. “You can hold my hand,” Karen said teasingly. “Are you kidding? It's been a while, but I do know how to skate.” “Then prove it.” Karen began to move away, trying her best to run, but she ended up collapsing into the newly fallen snow. Christopher fell on top of her and rolled her over on top of him. “There's even something else I'm better at—ice skating never was my thing.” Karen smiled. “Maybe you can demonstrate when we get back to Southfork.” She pushed him off and stood up. The small pond near Southfork was totally frozen over—perfect for skating. Determined not to be outdone, Christopher followed Karen out onto the ice and chased after her. For the first time in weeks, his mind wasn't on the bottle.
Eric went into the other room and picked up the phone. It was Edward Bottger, the private investigator he hired to investigate Todd. “Hey Edward. Find out anything good?” Eric's hopes were high. “Well, I've started along some paths that I think might lead to something.” “Paths? Plural? So there's more than one thing Todd doesn't want to be made public?” Eric asked slyly. “Well, like I said, I've got nothing definite. But I've been in contact with a person that I think you may want to speak to. Name is Josh Nestor.” “What relation does he have to Todd?” Then Edward told him, and Eric's eyes widened. “I'll fly to Boston immediately after Christmas. Tell Mr. Nestor I want to speak with him---and that it will be very worth his while, monetarily speaking.” “Will do. Have a Merry Christmas, If I don't speak to you.” “You too Edward. Thank you.” Eric hung up the phone and smiled. If this was true, what he had just heard about Todd, then it was going to be a very Merry Christmas indeed. “Eric, are you sure you've taken care of everything?” Pamela Rebecca handed her brother a glass of eggnog and sat down beside him. Eric was startled. Had she heard anything? “I'm sure. You have nothing to worry about. The results will say that John Ross is the father.” Pamela Rebecca hugged him. “You are the best and I don't know what I would do without you.”
Miss Ellie sat at the kitchen table, doing a crossword puzzle and sipping some hot chocolate. She loved the Christmas season. Especially now that Southfork was so alive with people! She wished that Gary and Valene were not going back to Knots Landing, but at least they agreed to stay through the holiday. Miss Ellie was saddened to hear Gary's land deal had gone so sour. He had worked so hard to try to prove himself. She wondered why he had bought that land that was unfit to live on, but she just assumed it was poor judgment on his part. She didn't want to ask him about it, and open any wounds. No one was forthcoming about the subject either, but Miss Ellie didn't care. She was proud of her son, and she let him know it. He seemed to appreciate her support. Miss Ellie was surprised to see Lucy walk into the kitchen. “Lucy! What a wonderful surprise!” She smiled. “Hey Grandma,” Lucy responded, not too enthusiastically. “What's wrong?” “Just a lot of things on my mind.” “Is everything OK with Neil?” Miss Ellie assumed that marital troubles were the cause of Lucy's woes. “No, everything's great with Neil.” “What's troubling you?” “A couple things. Cally for one.” “What happened?” Cally was something that was worrying Miss Ellie this Christmas. Sue Ellen had told her what happened when she tried to talk to Cally, and how unreceptive she was. It worried her, because she didn't know what to do. “I mean, I guess it's nothing huge, but I went shopping with her yesterday and some weird things happened.” “Like what?” “Well, her credit card was declined and her phone was shut off. She used my cell phone to call the companies—I mean, the phone and credit card places, that is. They told her that they sent her multiple bills, but that none had been paid. Cally swears she didn't get any. I think she's paid them now that she knows, but don't you think that's kind of unusual?” “It's very strange.” It was also along the lines of Cally's recent behavior: forgetfulness, absent-mindedness. The probability of many bills, from two different companies, being lost in the mail was not very high to Miss Ellie. It just made her more concerned about what to do about Cally. She resolved that action had to be taken after Christmas.
John Ross smiled. “Went nice and smooth.” Melissa finally caught up with him and entered the office. “Hi Melissa,” J.R. said. “So you got the company then John Ross?” “You bet I did.” “Terrific. At the rate we're acquiring the little guys, Ewing Oil will be the size of West Star in no time.” “No. Hell is going to have to be as cold as Dallas before you ever get your dirty hands on my oil company.” J.R. was stunned. “Your oil company? What's this about?” “Jerrickson Oil is mine. I got it fair and square with every intention of giving it to you—until Gary told me what you did to our construction business.” J.R. knew this moment was coming, but he had hoped it would come after John Ross signed over the company. Damn! He hadn't counted on John Ross seeing Gary before he came to him. “Well you know Gary—he's always making excuses for himself. And he blames this one on me does he?” “I'm not buying your damned lies this time. You've done nothing but manipulated me constantly. I thought things were okay between us when you sent me to get that company in Orleans, but I was wrong—dead wrong. You are the lowlife that everyone says you are. You care about no one but yourself and this damned company. Well I've got news for you 'Dad'…as of this second; I am NOT your son anymore. Maybe biologically, but that is it. I am ashamed of you—you make me sick. After Christmas, I'm leaving Dallas…I'll miss everybody else, but it's a small price to pay to get the hell away from you.” After the tirade, John Ross left J.R.'s office. Melissa stared at J.R. J.R. spoke up. “Melissa…talk to him for me. See if you can change his mind—despite what he thinks, I really do love him.” “Screw you J.R. He doesn't need your twisted sort of love.” Melissa and J.R. locked gazes. “And don't you try anything else on him—you've lost him, leave it at that.” “Never. I'm not going to let my son walk out of my life like that.” “He didn't walk out. The door was wide open and you pushed him out. But if you ever try to hurt him again, I will make you sorry.” “Sorry? Little girls like you are the least of my worries.” “Don't you forget who this 'little girl's' Uncle is…and the fact that he knows practically every dirty trick you've ever pulled. Some of that, I know. And don't think for a second that I wouldn't send it right to the press. You'd be ruined in this town J.R.” “Blackmail?” “No, I wouldn't call it that. Blackmail is illegal and you know which side of the law I'm on. Just leave John Ross alone.” Melissa left the office.
It was almost 6:30, Southfork was just about to sit down to Christmas Eve dinner, the whole gang was there, except for two, J.R. and Neil, and Lucy was starting to worry. She walked around the house, hoping to see him at every turn. She walked into the kitchen; Miss Ellie and Sue Ellen were helping Theresa put the last minute touches on the dinner. "Grandma, any calls?" "No Lucy, I told you that five minutes ago, don't worry, Neil will be here any minute." Sue Ellen turned to Lucy and spoke; her voice had a tone, possibly because she was still stinging from Lucy's comments at lunch. "Lucy, come on, you've had your fair share of relationships, not always the greatest guys.. Neil is different. He'll be here soon." Lucy caught the tone, so did Ellie. Ellie turned to Theresa, "Theresa, help me gather the family, dinner is just about ready." With this Sue Ellen and Lucy were left alone in the kitchen. Lucy turned to face Sue Ellen. "Sue Ellen, what exactly did that mean, fair share of relationships, not the greatest of guys? That's like the pot calling the kettle black don't you think?" "I meant nothing by it." "Yes you did. Cliff is not the only man we shared, remember Peter Richards." Sue Ellen flinched at the mention of Peter's name. "Lucy, my affair with Peter was a mistake, a big one I admit. But.... as I remember it, we didn't exactly share him. I recall him wanting little to do with you." "Well, you remember wrong. One day I'll fill you in on what you don't know." "Lucy…I'm having flashbacks to our relationship years and years ago. I thought we moved beyond this hurtful banter. I like how we've grown and matured, please let's let history stay in the past." Lucy headed out of the kitchen. "Sue Ellen, I like you, I do, but we do have a history and I guess we haven't really ever dealt with it. Maybe our lunch today and the whole thing with Cliff brought a few things up I haven't really put behind me. But.... it is Christmas, maybe we can put this conversation on hold until after the New Year." Sue Ellen was hoping to put it on hold permanently but decided not to protest. "Sure Lucy, whatever you want." Exasperated, Lucy walked outside and stood by the pool. She was a little shaken from her conversation with Sue Ellen, though not exactly sure why, but she was mostly concerned with where her husband was. She really had not noticed at the time, but in looking back, he really did seem upset when she came out of the bathroom this morning. Lucy felt an arm on her shoulder and turned. "Neil!" Lucy turned, but it was not Neil, it was Ray. He put a sweater over his favorite niece. "Lucy you'll catch your death out here." "I know Ray, I'm just waiting for Neil." "Why are you so worried? It's not that late." "You're right…I'm not sure. I really can't explain it, I guess it started with a look on Neil's face this morning, he looked scared." "Scared?" "Yeah, Ray maybe I'm just being paranoid, but a couple of unpleasant conversations with Sue Ellen today just put me in a really weird head space." Ray hugged Lucy and she hugged back. They had always been so close. "Thanks Ray." "Thanks? For what?" "You know, you have always been there for me, always, you have been more like a father to me than my real father." Ray smiled "Like a father?" " I know what you're thinking, but that was so long ago." "That wasn't what I was thinkin', please, let's not bring that up, we haven't ever talked about it before." "Well not since Granddad publicly acknowledged you as his son." "This conversation is dangerous." "We had an affair, so what? We didn't know we were related and it was so long ago--why shouldn't we be able to talk about it?" Lucy stopped, and looked back on the road. "I'm sorry…I don't know what is coming over me today, maybe it's the holidays, or the end of the millennium. I've been talking about some strange stuff today, getting things off my chest. Maybe it would be best to just go to my room til Neil arrives. God knows what I would say to J.R if I saw him tonight." "It's okay. The holidays play havoc on everyone's emotions. Let's just not bring it up again. I really don't see it being beneficial to anyone." "You're right Ray." Ellie peeked her head out of the patio door. "Lucy, Neil just called. He's running late, but is on his way." "Thank God!" Lucy gave Ray another quick hug, and the two followed Miss Ellie into the dining room for dinner. "So, Cliff and Peter weren't the only men Lucy and I shared." Sue Ellen rose from the patio chair she had been sitting on. In the old days she might have used this information to gain something, but Sue Ellen was beyond this. It would kill Miss Ellie and destroy Donna--and her career. This one was one Ewing secret Sue Ellen planned on keeping to herself. Fifteen minutes later, the whole family was gathered at two different tables. Neil had just shown up, apologizing for being late to his first Ewing family function. J.R. had ambled in a few minutes before, but had been very quiet. As Clayton carved the turkey, Miss Ellie peered across the table at J.R. She could sense something was bothering him. As soon as she saw John Ross' face, she knew that something had gone on between the two of them. Gary sat quietly in his chair, looking at his daughter. He knew that he would have to tell her about selling his percentage of Ewing Oil, but he didn't want to until after the holiday was over. He had asked Sue Ellen and Jill to keep quiet about it. A few minutes before dinner, he had also asked the same thing of John Ross. Lucy looked around the table and smiled. Everyone was there. At the main table sat Ellie, Clayton, J.R., Sue Ellen, Jack, John Ross, Melissa, Donna, Ray, Gary, Val, Lucy, and Neil. At the other table, Christopher, Karen, Bobby, Pam, Rex, Iris, Betsy, Bobby II, Jillian, Justin, Margaret, and Lucas had taken their places. But, the atmosphere was far from warm and cozy. The whole room was like one big powder keg waiting to explode. Ellie sensed that and feared what might happen. Iris sipped from her glass and peered over the top of it at J.R. He pretended not to notice and focused his attention on the plate of food before him. Miss Ellie stood up. “My, what a large family. I'm happy that almost everyone was able to make it tonight—along with our new friends, Rex and Iris.” Bobby cast a suspicious glance across the table at Rex and Rex picked up on the suspicion. Rex swirled around his drink and took a sip. He looked over at Iris and noticed that she was looking at J.R. a bit too much. Rex almost laughed. How stupid did they think he was? Of course he knew of their affair from before—and he had overlooked it then, but would not now. J.R. had just moved higher on his list of targets. Rex spoke up. “Mrs. Farlow, I'd like to thank you and the others for being so kind to my wife and I. And to show my gratitude for allowing us into your home this holiday season, I'd like to let you all know that I'm throwing a huge New Year's Eve gala here in Dallas.” Iris was surprised. This was the first she had heard of this. She didn't like being left in the dark, but she supposed that's what being married to Rex Wentworth was all about.” Pam put down her fork. “Rex, that is very nice of you, but you don't have to go to all the trouble and expense.” “Nonsense Pam. No trouble at all.” Pam nodded and a tiny voice in the back of her head told her that Rex had ulterior motives. She pushed it out of her mind and focused on the festivities.
A half-hour later… Christmas music played in the background and Ellie tried to remain positive as she looked around the room at her gathered family. Things had definitely not been the friendliest amongst the Ewings lately—she hoped that wouldn't ruin the festivities of decorating the Ewing tree. Pam had revived such a wonderful tradition last year with the ornaments she had bought. And this year, they would have several new additions to add to the tree. Ray and Bobby had gone out in search of a Christmas tree earlier in the week. Ellie and Donna had added the lights and various other ornaments. Now the only things left to add were the Ewing ornaments. Ellie took the box from Pam and removed the first two from the tissue paper. She took Jock's in her hand and thought back to their first Christmas together. Carefully, she hung hers and Jock's high on the tree. Clayton reached into the box and took out his ornament. Kissing Ellie, he placed it next to hers. Pam smiled. “I just hope Bobby and I can always be as happy as you and Clayton are now, Miss Ellie.” “It takes work Pam, but I don't think Bobby is half as stubborn as Clayton.” Pam searched through the box and came out with the ornaments lettered with Bobby and Pam. Ellie passed Pam the newly bought Grace ornament and Pam carefully took it, turning it around in her hand. “Bobby, it's hard to believe we really have a daughter.” Bobby rocked baby Grace in his arms and turned her toward the Christmas tree. “You like that don't you Gracie?” Grace waved her hand at the twinkling lights. Pam kissed her daughter's forehead and hung the three ornaments on the tree. She then turned to Christopher and Karen, who were sitting near the crackling fireplace. “Christopher…I wish I could hang this one up for you, but you have your own family now.” Pam smiled and handed the two ornaments to Christopher and Karen as they walked to the tree. Karen spoke up. “Not to make a moving speech here, but I'm really proud to be able to hang my ornament with the rest of the Ewings…and my husband.” She put her arm around his waist and they each hung their ornaments on the tree. “Yeah…and who knows. Maybe next year we'll have a new addition to hang with ours.” Christopher grinned and he and Karen returned to their chair by the fireplace. He hoped his pain didn't show through. He had really counted on hanging Megan's ornament on the tree with his and Karen's. Karen was sad as well. If she hadn't given him up for adoption, she might be hanging her son's ornament with theirs. Ellie reached into the box of tissue paper. “Now, let's see who is next. Here is…Ray's.” The situation grew awkward. Donna was still living at Southfork and to be honest, Ellie wasn't sure what her status was with Ray. But, if they weren't back together yet, she intended to give them a little push. “And Donna's.” Last year, there had been no Donna ornament, but Ellie had had one made, along with the other new ones. Donna looked at Ray and then back to Miss Ellie. Finally she smiled and joined Ray at the tree. “Last year, we missed this little tradition of yours, but I think it's a great idea.” Ray and Donna placed their ornaments on the tree. Lucas and Margaret took their place at the tree. Margaret hung her ornament, another new one, and Lucas took two from his Grandmother—his and Jenna's. As he had last year, he looked down on it with sadness. She was dead and there was no changing that. He thought about the hallucinations he had been having about her…or had they been dreams? Anyway, now Donna's ornament was hanging near his dad's. Lucas took his mother's ball and placed it carefully in the space between Donna and Ray's. He then hung his nearby. Satisfied, he returned to his seat, giving Donna a triumphant look. “Oh Lucas, one more you should hang. I had one made for Charlie…” Lucas smiled and walked to Ellie, where he took Charlie's ornament and hung it on the tree. Lucy was the next person to go to the tree. Neil held her hand as they both walked to it. As she took her ball from Miss Ellie, she had a sickening thought. Last year she had promised herself that Cliff would be hanging his ornament there next year. She almost laughed when she thought about how much things had changed. Now she had Neil. She wondered what his surprise for her was, but he had informed her earlier that she wouldn't know until Christmas Day. As a symbol of their love for one another, they hung each other's ornaments on the tree and then returned to their seats to let the next person have a turn. “John Ross…” Ellie announced. She noticed Pamela Rebecca's ornament in the box, left from last year. They had all thought that she and John Ross would marry, but it never happened. This year, it wouldn't be hanging on the Ewing tree. John Ross was deep in thought and didn't hear her call his name. Melissa poked him and they both walked to the tree. “Sorry…” Miss Ellie smiled. “Melissa, I know you're not officially part of the family yet, but we all think it's just a matter of time before that happens.” She handed Melissa hers and together, they each hung them on the tree. John Ross picked up Megan and helped her hang her ornament on the tree—he knew she was his daughter. Christopher would just have to live with that. Christopher watched from several feet away and Karen put her arm around him in an attempt to comfort him. She knew how it felt to lose a child. John Ross returned to his seat, not looking in J.R.'s direction. Gary, Val, Betsy, and Bobby were the next to put their ornaments on the tree. Gary momentarily thought about his other daughter—Mollie. She should have a Christmas ornament hanging on the Christmas tree, but of course, none of the family knew about that. Mollie was with Kate and Brian in California—Gary knew she was happy there. Miss Ellie looked at her oldest son. “J.R., you have quite a few to hang this year.” J.R. rolled his eyes and walked to the tree. He tried to make contact with John Ross, but John Ross wouldn't look at him. J.R. took James, Debra Lynn, and Jimmy's ornaments from the box and hung them. He wondered what they were doing right now and decided that he should call James today—after all, he was his son…and it was Christmas Eve. J.R. took the next one and turned to his other son. “Justin, here's yours.” Justin smiled and bounded across the room. “Dad, this is so cool. I love being here with you guys!” Justin and J.R. both put theirs on the Christmas tree. “Is there one for my Mom?” Justin asked. “Yes, as a matter of fact there is.” Miss Ellie took Cally's from the box and handed it to Justin. J.R. frowned. He thought about the ball falling off the tree and breaking and laughed at the symbolism behind it—that's exactly what Cally was going to do. Then, he would get custody of Justin. Jillian walked to the tree and placed her ornament next to J.R.'s and Justin's. She was in awe of everything that was going on. Before on Christmas, it had only been her and her mother. She just wished she could be here with her. Last year, Miss Ellie had hung Jack and Abby's ornaments. This year Jack was here to hang his own, but knew very well he wouldn't be hanging Abby's on the tree this year. Ellie looked in his direction and Jack and Sue Ellen walked to the tree. From his corner of the room, J.R. felt a slight tinge of jealousy, but he pushed it out of his mind and looked in Iris' direction. She was watching the Ewing tradition with a smile. Rex appeared to be bored. Jack and Sue Ellen placed their red and green ornaments on the tree. Miss Ellie handed Jack a third one and he held it in his hands. With a melancholy smile, he hung his sister Jamie's ornament on the tree. He was happy that he would always be able to remember her this way…
Stefan turned to her. “And you are beautiful. It is only a matter of time before your memory returns to you and then we will know who you really are.” Angel smiled weakly. “I feel like I've been asleep for so long…but thank you. Thank you for saving my life.” She stood up and walked to the window where she stared out at the gently falling snow. Stars twinkled up in the sky and she wondered if maybe out there somewhere, she had a family…
Jack shook his head and looked at Sue Ellen. “Sorry. I was just thinking about my sister.” Sue Ellen smiled and hugged him. “I'm willing to bet Jamie is up there in Heaven looking down on her brother.” Jack kissed her and they went back to their seats. Ellie stood up and looked at the tree. “If this family keeps on growing at this rate, we'll have to get a bigger tree next year!” Lucy stood up. “I know this is really corny, but, can I request a Christmas song?” “Of course Lucy. Maybe singing a Christmas carol or two will bring the family a little closer together.” Lucy frowned. “Gramma, I didn't mean sing…I just wanted to hear it.” “I know perfectly well what you mean, but I'm adding my own spin on things here. Everybody, stand up. What song is it you wanted to hear?” “O Christmas Tree,” Lucy said, embarrassed.
Clayton walked to the stereo and started the music. At first, only Ellie and Lucy sang, but eventually everyone got in on the act. Christopher pulled his wife close to him, happy that they could put aside their differences and problems for the holiday. He gazed across the room at John Ross and Grace. His Christmas wish was for her to be returned to him. John Ross had a wish of his own--and that was to be able to take Megan with him when he left Dallas in the New Year. As the song continued, J.R. stared at Iris. From the corner, Rex noticed the stare. What strange fate had landed them at the home of J.R. Ewing? But, Rex would take care of J.R. at the New Year's Eve gala…along with Pam and anyone else who happened to be there—Cliff too. With Cliff dead, control of the Clifford Group would go to Afton. Gregor had found that out for him. Afton would be a much easier target and Rex knew he'd have no trouble wrestling the Clifford Group away from her weak grasp.
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be sure to click it to download the Christmas carol hidden inside. 
