"Yeah.  That bad and worse,"  replies a concerned Lance.  "I just don't know what to do.  We may have no choice but to talk to Emma about declaring bankruptcy."

 

Pilar sighs.  "Oh, wouldn't your cousin Angela just love that?  She's been just waiting for some kind of news like this to take advantage of and make it look as if we haven't been doing a good job in running this place."

 

"Well, obviously we haven't, or else Falcon Crest wouldn't be going under financially right now."

 

 

"Lance this is NOT your fault,"  says Pilar.  

 

"Isn't it?"  Lance asks, standing from his seat.  "I've been running Falcon Crest for the last eight and a half years, since Grandmother died.  This winery was my responsibility, Pilar.  Grandmother and Aunt Emma entrusted me to run it.  And now......."

 

"You have done a wonderful running Falcon Crest.  These are just difficult times."

 

"Well, now I've gotta figure out how I'm gonna break this news to Emma,"  Lance says.  "None of us needed this bad news on top of worrying about my mother's disappearance."

"Strange, you weren't that interested in my life until Emma Ryland came to town,"  Kevin says.  "Maybe you're just checking up on me because your wife doesn't like Emma."

 

Michael sighs.  "Kevin, Elena knows Emma pretty well.  And I just don't wan you to get hurt."

 

"And why would I get hurt?"  Kevin asks.

 

"Just be careful of her, man."

 

"Oh, the way you were careful with Elena?"  

 

Michael looks at his brother.  "What the hell's that supposed to mean?"

 

"You fell in love with Elena, and married her.  A woman who lied and told the father of her child that his son was dead, and you're telling ME to be careful of Emma?"

 

"That was uncalled for, Kevin,"  says Michael.  

 

"Michael, I don't know the entire story of Elena's history with Emma, and I don't wanna know.  But just mind your own business, okay, bro?"

 

"Okay, if that's the way you want, brother, FINE,"  Michael says angrily.  Without another word to his brother, Michael turns and walks away.  

"Hi,"  Chase says as the two shake hands. "So how do you like the Tuscany Valley so far?"

 

Jonathon smiles.  "I find your Valley to be absolutely captivating.  Very beautiful scenery, and very beautiful ladies."

 

"You got that right,"  Chase agrees.  

 

"Speaking of which,"  says Cole.  "We saw you the other night here with Angela St. James.  You and Angela seeing each other?"

 

Jonathon's smile fades.  "No.  Miss St. James and I are just friends."

 

At that moment, Vicky walks into the spa and makes her way over to the group.  "Hi, everyone," she says.  

 

"Vicky, hi,"  Cole says.  "Glad you're here."

 

"Jonathon, won't you join us for lunch?"  Vicky asks. 

 

The young man looks at his stepmother.  "No, thank you," he says.  "Cole, it was nice seeing you.  And Chase, it's a pleasure meeting you.  Perhaps we can get up a game of tennis sometime."

 

"I'm not very good at tennis, but how about basketball?"  Chase asks.  "You any good?"

"After tennis, basketball just happens to be my second best sport."

 

"Great, then, just hit me up sometime."

 

"I will.  Good day."  Jonathon turns and walks away.

 

Vicky takes a seat at the table next to Cole and sighs as she watches her stepson walk away.  

 

"Is everything alright, sis?"  Cole asks.  "Things seemed a bit chilly between you and your stepson."

 

"Jonathon has never quite taken to me being married to his father," replies Vicky.  "Oh, he's crazy about Alex, and the two of them are very close.  It's me he has a problem with, even though I practically raised him."

 

"I see."

 

A sad and distant look crosses Vicky's face as she watches Jonathon across the room.  Cole notices her expression and the sadness in his sister's eyes.  He wonders what is going on in the Lord family.

 

Meanwhile, as Jonathon starts to exit the spa, Angela walks in.  "Hi," she greets him with a smile.

 

"Hello, Angela."

 

"Have you had ,lunch yet?"

 

"No."

 

"Good, then you can join me."

 

"I'm sorry, but I can't,"  Jonathon says, somewhat coldly.  "I have to go."  He quickly walks past Angela and leaves.  Angela is surprised by Jonathon's suddenly cold manner toward her after he had pursued her for several days.

 

 "Look, I don't want excuses,"  Richard says as he paces around his office, talking to someone on his phone.  "I want Julia Cumson found.  It's been more than a week and a half now since Julia disappeared from the convent, and you're still no closer to finding my sister than you were before I hired you.  Now, either get the job done or I'll find someone who can."  Richard slams the phone down on his desk.  At that moment, Richard's intercom buzzes.  "Yes?"  He says, pressing the button on his desk.

 

"Emma Ryland is here to see you, sir,"  says Richard's secretary.

 

"Thank you.  Please send Miss Ryland in."  Richard walks over to the door and greets the young woman with a smile as she walks into his office.  "Miss Ryland, please come in," he says.

 

"Mr. Channing,"  Emma says.  "What can I do for you?"

 

"Would you like a drink?"  Richard asks.

 

"No, thank you, it's still a little early in the day for me,"  replies Emma.  

 

Richard smiles.  "Fine.  Mind if I have one?"

 

"Of course not.  So why did you wanna see me?"

 

Richard walks to his bar and pours himself a drink.  "Well, I hear that you've been seeing a lot of my son Kevin lately.  I remember meeting you once in London a long time ago with your father, but I don't really know you."

 

"Well, first of all, Harris Ryland is NOT my father,"  says Emma.

Ah, yes, that's right,"  says Richard.  "I forgot.....Cliff Barnes is your real father.  A very interesting and intriguing man, Mr. Barnes, with an equally large vendetta against the Ewings as I have myself."

 

"That's right.  Look, Mr. Channing, I see no reason for beating around the bush here.  What is it you REALLY wanted to see me about?"

"Right to the point.  I like that.  Alright, Miss Ryland......"

 

"Emma."

 

"Alright........Emma........very lovely name.  I have a sister named Emma.  But as I was saying, you and my son Kevin seem to be getting rather close lately, and I'd just like to know more about you.  I'd also like to know just how close you and Kevin are, and how long this little fling of yours has been going on."

 

"Kevin and I met in London several years ago, as you know, when I was living there and my.......and HARRIS........was visiting, and you and Kevin came to see him.  Kevin and I became friends, and then.......lovers.  But it ended when he returned to San Francisco.  We did keep in touch for a while, but, then we stopped corresponding after I returned to Dallas.  I didn't see him again until the custody trial in December between John Ross and Elena."

 

"And you and Kevin.......renewed your old romance?"  Richard asks.

 

"That's right."

 

"And what about the other young man you were involved with?  Bobby Ewing's son, isn't he?"

 

"Yes, that's right,"  replies Emma.  "Lucas.  But don't worry.  It's over between me and Lucas."

 

"Well, I'm happy to hear that, not only for my son's sake, but, because I'm sure young Mr. Ewing must have been broken hearted to see you walk out of his life, and I'm in favor of anyone who causes even the slightest amount of discomfort for the Ewing family.  But, one thing does concern me."

 

"And what's that?"

 

"Your mother is married to Bobby Ewing,"  Richard says.  

 

"Yes, she is.  And what is your point?"

 

Richard walks over to the young woman.  "My point, is, Emma, that since Bobby Ewing is your stepfather, how do I know he didn't put you up to this?"

 

"Put me up to WHAT, Mr. Channing?"  Emma asks, becoming irritated by the line of questioning.  "None of what you're asking me is making any sense."

 

"Oh, come now, young lady.  What better way to infiltrate my family by sending you, an old friend of my son's, out here to get close to Kevin just to spy on us?  Maybe cause a few problems at the request of your stepfather or John Ross?"

 

"You have GOT to be kidding me!  You honestly think that I'm here working as a spy for the Ewings?"

 

"Maybe you are and maybe you aren't, Miss Ryland,"  says Richard.  "Just where exactly do your loyalties lie in that feud between your biological father and the Ewings?"

 

"My loyalties lie in only one place......with myself.  I don't give a damn about either side in that stupid war between Cliff and the Ewings, and I resent like hell that you're accusing me of coming here and getting involved with Kevin just to act as a spy for the Ewings."

 

"Oh just calm down,"  Richard says, taking a seat at his desk.  "Look, I'm sure you can understand my position.  After all, the Ewings have a vendetta against me and I have a vendetta against them, so it's only natural for me to suspect anyone who comes into my backyard from the Ewing camp."

 

"Well, just to set the record straight, Mr. Channing, I am NOT working as a spy for the Ewings or anyone else.  I am here simply because I wanna be here with your son.  Now if you'll excuse me, I'm meeting Kevin for lunch."  Emma turns and starts to walk out.

 

"Miss Ryland?"  Richard calls.

 

Emma pauses at the door for a brief moment, then turns back to him.  "What now?"

 

"If you happen to speak with your stepfather or John Ross, give them a message from me........"  Richard pauses as he leans forward in his chair and looks at Emma.  "I meant what I said in court back in December after the custody hearing.  The war between the Ewings and the Channings has only just begun, and I fully intend to destroy the Ewing family."

 

Emma looks at him for a moment.  "Tell them yourself," she says.  "Just as I'm not a spy for the Ewings, I'm not a personal messaging service for you, either."  Emma walks out of the office without another word.

 

After she's gone, Richard leans back in his chair and smiles.  "I don't know what you're up to, Miss Ryland.  But I'm damned sure gonna find out."

"That was my contact in the Tuscany Valley,"  Jeremy replies.  "She had some very interesting news for me."

 

"Like what?"

 

"Falcon Crest is broke.  Completely and utterly BROKE.  They are sinking as fast as the Titanic."

 

"Really?  Well, that is interesting,"  says Vicky.  

 

"Yes,"  says Jeremy.  "And when they do go down for the count, you and I will be there waiting to offer a life preserver."

 

"But at a very high price,"  Vicky says with a smile.

"Emma, what's going on?"  Kevin asks.  "All evening you've been in a bad mood, now what's bothering you?"

 

Emma looks at him and sighs.  "I just haven't had a very good day, that's all."

 

"Why?  What happened?"

 

Emma sits up in bed.  "I don't wanna talk about it, okay?"

 

"No, Emma, it's not okay,"  Kevin says.  "Now something has you all upset, and I'd like to know what it is.  Was it Elena?  Did she say something to you?"

"No, Kevin, it wasn't Elena,"  Emma replies.  "It was ANOTHER member of your family."

"My brother?"

 

"No, it wasn't Michael, either.  Your father called and asked to see me in his office today.  So I went, and........."

 

"And what, Emma?"  Kevin asks.  "What did my father say to upset you?"

 

"He wanted to know if I was sent here by the Ewings to get close to you and spy on your family for them."

 

"He.......he WHAT?"  Asks a surprised Kevin.  

 

"He also wanted to know, because Cliff Barnes is my father, whose side I'm on in this stupid feud between the Barnes family and the Ewings."

 

"I don't believe this,"  says an angry Kevin, leaping out of bed.  "My father......I can't........I just can't believe he would do this.  My father had no right to accuse you of spying for the Ewings.  This stupid feud he has with them has nothing to do with you."

 

"Kevin, it's alright, just forget it,"  Emma says.

 

"No way.  I'm NOT gonna just forget this."  Kevin picks up his jeans from the floor and slips them on.  Then he takes a seat on the bed and puts his socks on.

 

"Kevin, what are you doing?"

 

"I'm gonna go see my father.  Right now!  I'm gonna let him know just what I think of his stupid accusations."

 

"No, Kevin,"  says Emma.  "Just let it go.  Look, in a way, I can see where your father is coming from.  After all, Bobby Ewing is my stepfather, so I guess it's only natural for your father to be suspicious of anyone connected to the Ewings."

 

"But my GIRLFRIEND?"  Kevin asks, much to Emma's surprise.

 

"Your.......your GIRLFRIEND, Kevin?"  Emma asks.

 

Kevin turns to her.  "Well, yeah.  Emma, that's how I feel.  Since you've been here, I've actually been happy.  For the first time in a long time, I feel complete."

 

Emma smiles as she reaches out and touches Kevin's face.   "You are such a wonderful man, Kevin Channing."

 

Kevin takes Emma's hand.  "More wonderful than Lucas Krebbs?"

 

"No question about that."

 

Holding Emma's hand, Kevin looks deeply into her eyes.  "I never should've let you go in the first place.  I should've stayed with you in London."

 

"That never would've worked.  Harris and Judith Ryland never would have allowed that.  Those two tried to control my whole life.  Thank God I finally broke free of them."

 

"I know what you mean,"  says Kevin.  "My father is the king when it comes to trying to control other peoples' lives.  My grandmother was the same way."

 

"Trust me.  I don't think anyone, not even Richard Channing, could compare to Harris and Judith when it came to control.  But enough of talking about them.  Let's go to bed."

 

Kevin sighs.  "I don't think I could sleep now.  I'm too pissed about what my father did."

 

"Well, you don't have to sleep,"  Emma says, seductively, then kisses him.  "Just come to bed."

 

Kevin looks at her and smiles.  "Now how could I ever refuse that kind of an offer?"  He asks.  He and Emma begin kissing passionately.

 

 

 

 

Emma Channing and her daughter Angela come down the stairs the next morning at Falcon Crest and walk into the dining room, where they find Lance and Pilar seated at the table waiting for them.

 

"Good morning, Lance.  Pilar,"  Emma says, taking a seat at the table.

 

"Morning, Emma.  Angela,"  Lance says.

 

What's this all about?  Why did you wanna talk to Mother and I?"  Angela asks.

 

Emma gasps.  "You've gotten some news about Julia.  Is she alright?  Where is she?"

 

"No, Emma,"  Pilar says.  "It's not about Julia."

 

"Then what is it?"  Emma asks.

 

"I'm afraid this family has........another problem.  A very serious problem."

 

"Lance, what is it?"  

"Well, I' afraid that Falcon Crest is.......is broke, Emma."

 

"Broke?"  Emma asks.

 

"Are you kidding me?"  Angela asks.

 

"Oh, I wish I WERE kidding, but take a look at the books if you don't believe me."

 

Angela sighs as she stands from her seat at the table.  "This is absolutely unbelievable,"  she says, looking at her cousin. 

 

"Lance, how did this happen?"  Emma asks.

"I'll tell you what happened, Mother,"  Angela says.  "MIS-management.  You left Lance and Pilar in charge of Falcon Crest eight years ago and now they've run it into the ground.  These two shouldn't be put in charge of a convenience store, let alone a winery!"

 

"What?"  Pilar asks, springing from her seat.  "How dare you say something like that to us!  What in the hell have you EVER run?"

 

"Alright, everyone, just stop it,"  says Lance.  "Look, Pilar and I have been right here busting our asses every day for this winery since Grandmother's death.  But that's beside the point.  The fact is, we're HERE now, at THIS point.  And I think the only option is to declare bankruptcy."

 

"No!"  Emma says adamantly.  "There must be another way.  "There has to be someone we can turn to for help in pulling us out of this mess."

 

"Like who, Emma?"  Lance asks.  "Richard?  He has his own financial troubles right now."

 

"Emma, the creditors are screaming for our blood,"  Pilar says.  "The time to file for chapter eleven is now."

 

"No,"  Angela says.  "My mother is right.  And I have a few tricks up my sleeve.  I think I know someone I can go to for help.  Just promise me that the two of you will hold off on this for a day or two."

 

"Angela...."

 

"Look, Lance, it's the weekend.  That buys us a little time at least.  A couple days, at least."

 

"Who are you going to for help?"  Pilar asks.

 

"You just let ME worry about that.  Let's say I have a friend I think will be willing to help me.  If I help my friend."

 

Emma, Lance, and Pilar exchange worried looks, then look at Angela, wondering what the young woman is up to.

 

 

 

 

Meanwhile, his family is unaware that Eric is standing in the doorway listening to the conversation.  After hearing Angela say she has someone in mind to help, Eric quickly turns and heads quietly back up the stairs to his bedroom.  Closing the door, he takes his cell phone from his pocket and dials a number.  On the third ring, someone answers.

"It's Eric," he says.  "Listen, we need to talk.  ASAP.  I have some information I think you'll find interesting, and I need your help with something.  Can we meet today?  Lunch?  Yeah, that'll be fine.  See you then."  Eric ends the call and puts his phone away.  He smiles.

In his office later, Richard's secretary hands him a sheet of paper.  "Here's the copy of that editorial you wanted to look over for tomorrow's edition, Mr. Channing," she says.

 

"Thank you, thank you.  When you have a chance, let my son know I wanna see him as soon as he can step in here a minute."

 

"Yes, sir," the secretary says with a smile.  As she starts to leave the office, Richard's phone rings.  

 

"Would you get that, please?"  Richard asks.

 

"Yes, sir."  The secretary picks up the phone.  "Richard Channing's office.  Just one moment, please."  She takes the phone from her ear, placing her hand over the mouthpiece.  "It's Katherine Wentworth, calling for you."

 

Richard smiles.  "Thank you, Mindy, that will be all."

 

The secretary returns her boss's smile, then walks out of the office, closing the door behind her.

 

After she's gone, Richard takes his call.   "Well, the lovely Miss Wentworth," he says.

 

 

 

 

 

After putting her phone down, Katherine leans back in her chair and smiles.  

 

 

"Thank you,"  Eric says to the young waitress who serves his lunch at the local restaurant in Tuscany early in the afternoon.  

 

"You're welcome, Eric.  Just let me know if you need anything else," she says.

 

"I will, Beth."

 

She smiles at Eric and the person sitting across the table from him, then walks away.  

 

"Man, they have the best peach cobbler in town,"  Eric says.

 

"Yeah, now, why don't we get down to WHY you wanted to see me,"  the other person says.

 

"Okay,"  says Eric.  "I wanted to talk about money."

"Money?"  Asks Kevin, seated across the table from Eric.  "I don't understand."

 

"I would've gone to your father myself, but, Uncle Richard is not particularly fond of me."

 

"Gee, I wonder why,"  Kevin says.  "Maybe because when you were 15, you stole his car and totaled it."  

 

"Yeah,"  Eric says with a smile.  "Not one of my brighter moments."

 

"No, it wasn't.  Now, would you please get to the point, cuz?"

 

"Okay, man, the point is.......I need money.  Or, rather, Falcon Crest needs it."

 

"You just totally lost me there,"  says Kevin.  "Falcon Crest needs money?"

 

"Yeah, and a lot of it.  I overheard my parents talking to Aunt Emma and Cousin Angela this morning.  Falcon Crest is in some serious financial trouble, and I mean REALLY serious."

 

"And........you're coming to ME?  Dude, you know I don't have that kinda money."

 

"No, but your Dad does,"  Eric says.  "I want you to go to Uncle Richard and ask him to help bail Falcon Crest out of this mess."

 

"And why should I do that?"  Kevin asks.  

 

"Because Falcon Crest is part of your heritage, too.  Uncle Richard does own part of it."

 

"Yeah, a very SMALL part."

 

"But it's still part of your family's legacy, same as it is mine,"  says Eric.

 

"Why didn't your Dad, or Aunt Emma go to my father?"

 

"Come on, bro, you know my Dad would never go to Uncle Richard for anything like that.  And Aunt Emma just found out the financial state of Falcon Crest this morning.  And, another problem is Cousin Angela.  She claims to know someone who might be able to help."

 

"Then why not let her get that person to help?"  Kevin asks.

 

"Because I don't want her to.  I don't want Angela to have ANY part of bailing Falcon Crest out of this mess because then she'll turn around and take Falcon Crest for herself."

 

"Dude, that's just nuts."

"No, it's not.  Kevin, Angela is after Falcon Crest."

 

My question is.....why do you even care?  I thought you hated Falcon Crest."

 

Eric leans back in his seat.  "Maybe I changed my mind.  Look, Falcon Crest has been nothing but a pain in the ass to me my whole life because it's made my parents forget I even existed at times.  I think things would be much better for my family if my parents had no part of Falcon Crest.  But that doesn't mean I want them to lose it to Angela.  How do you think your father would feel about that?  He's always wanted Falcon Crest for himself.  I remember how pissed Uncle Richard was when Great-Grandmother left more of it to my Dad than to him.  Just tell him what a financial crisis the winery is in, and convince him to help."

 

"What makes you think he would?"

 

"Dude, you're his SON.  He'll listen to you."

 

"Yeah, well, I'm not real happy with my Dad right now.  In fact, I'm pretty pissed at him, so I'm not gonna go to him for anything.  You want his help, YOU ask him."  Kevin gets up from his seat and starts to leave.

 

"Wish you'd reconsider,"  Eric says.  "I'd sure hate for you Dad to find out about that money you stole from him that night back in December."

 

Kevin stops and looks at his cousin.  "You swore to me you'd never mention that again."

 

"And I haven't.  Until now.  I kept your secret, dude, for the last two and a half months.  Now, I just need you to return a small favor.  Sit down."

 

Kevin continues to stare angrily at his cousin.

 

"Come on, Kevin.  Sit down.  Eat your lunch."

 

Reluctantly, Kevin retakes his seat across from Eric.  

 

"Now then," Eric says.  "I'm not asking you to do anything really hard.  Just go to your father, tell him about Falcon Crest, ask him to keep his involvement a secret from my Dad, because we all know my Dad would never accept this kinda help from Uncle Richard."

 

"And what if I don't?"  Kevin asks.  "You gonna be an asshole and tell my Dad about the night we broke into his safe?"

 

"We?  Kev, you're the one who broke into Uncle Richard's safe.  I was just in the wrong place at the wrong time.  I'd sure hate to tell him what you did."

 

Kevin smiles.  "You know, I could just as easily tell him you stole that money.  After all, you do have  a criminal record, which includes stealing my father's car.  Who do you think he'll believe?  You, a thief and a criminal?  Or me, his own son?"

 

"Yeah, I kinda thought we might hit this little bump in the road,"  Eric says with a smile.  He takes his cell phone from his pocket.  "Just give me a second here."  He opens his video player.  "Now, I've changed phones since that night.  I broke my Iphone accidentally and had to get this crappy phone for now, but, luckily, I always saved my videos. Take a look."  He starts playing a video, then holds the phone up in front of Kevin, whose mouth falls open in shock when he sees it.......it's a fairly dark and somewhat grainy video of him breaking into Richard's safe in his office at home.  "Picture quality's not that great,"  Eric says.  "After all, it was pretty dark that night, but, that is YOUR voice talking to me while you open your Dad's safe.  That part can't be mistaken."

 

"I can't believe you?  You actually recorded that?"

 

"I record a LOT of stuff, cuz,"  Eric says.  "Never know when something might come in handy one day.  Y'know, for a little leverage when ya need a favor.  Like NOW.  So, how about it?  Talk to Uncle Richard and play the devoted, loyal son and get him to help Falcon Crest?"

 

"On ONE condition,"  says Kevin.  "That you delete that video."

 

"No can do.  But, I will give you my word that no one besides you and me will ever see this video if you just do this one little thing for me."

 

"I want it DELETED.  Or no deal."

 

"Well, y'know, I could just email this to Uncle Richard.  I'm sure he'd be very interested.  I've got you by the balls, cousin, and there's not a damned thing you can do about it.  Except......what I ask you to do."

 

Kevin gets up from his seat and starts to leave, but before he does, he pauses and looks down at his cousin.  "I'll do it, but I'm not gonna forget this, Eric.  And I WILL find a way to pay your ass back for this."

 

"Just do this one little thing, and that night you stole that money from your dad's safe will just.....be forgotten."

 

Without another word, Kevin walks away.  Eric watches his cousin as he angrily leaves the restaurant.  A few seconds later, Beth, the waitress walks over.  

 

"Eric, where'd your cousin go?"  Beth asks.  "He never even touched his food."

 

"Oh, I think he lost his appetite.  And, he, uh, forgot something real important he had to do,"  Eric says with a devious smile.  

 

 

"Falcon Crest is in some serious financial trouble at the moment,"  replies Angela.  "And we need a loan.  A rather........sizable loan........to bail us out with our creditors."

 

"So why come to me about this?"  Jonathon asks.

 

"Because your father is a very rich man, who would be able to help us."

"It's true, my father is very rich, but why would he help you save your family's faltering winery, especially when he doesn't even know your family?"  Jonathon asks.  

 

"Because he's married to Vicky Gioberti,"  Angela says.  "And Vicky's family still owns a small portion of Falcon Crest that belonged to Vicky's father, Chase Gioberti.  And a part of that portion of land will one day be passed down to your little brother, Alexander."

 

Jonathon smiles.  "You've really done your homework on my family."

 

Angela reaches across the table and takes the young man by the hand.  "I could also make it worth your while to speak to your father on Falcon Crest's behalf,"  she says, seductively.  

 

"How?"  Jonathon asks.

 

Angela leans across the table and kisses him for a few seconds, then smiles at him.  "Use your imagination," she says.  

 

Jonathon pulls his hand away from hers and leans back in his chair.

 

"Jonathon, what is it?"  Angela asks.  "Why did you pull away from me?  What's going on with you?  From the moment you set foot in this Valley, you've been pursuing me.  Always there every time I turn around, practically begging me for a date.  But now, after I finally broke down and went out with you a few nights ago, you've changed.  Was I really THAT dull?"

 

"No.  You weren't dull at all.  I just........I just have a lot going on in my life right now, and I don't have time for any kind of romantic entanglements."

 

Angela looks at him and smiles.  "It doesn't have to be a romantic entanglement, if you don't want it to be.  I'm not really looking for commitment either.  But maybe we could be........friends?"

 

"With benefits?"  Jonathon asks.

 

"Sure, why not?  I haven't been with anyone since I came back to the Tuscany Valley, and well, a girl does have needs."

 

Jonathon stands to his feet and looks down at her.  "I'll speak with my father about Falcon Crest."

 

Angela's smile grows wider.  "Thank you.  I knew I could count on you."

 

"But I'm not gonna sleep with you, Angela,"  Jonathon says.

 

Angela's smile quickly disappears.  "What?  Are you kidding me?"

 

"No, I'm not kidding.  You got what you came here for.  I said I'd speak with my father.  As for the sex.......sorry, but you're just not my type."  Without another word, Jonathon turns and walks out of the bar, leaving Angela both stunned and furious at the rejection of the young man who had pursued her relentlessly for weeks.  

 

 

"Please, come in, Katherine,"  Richard says as he welcomes Katherine Wentworth into his office at The Globe that afternoon.  

 

"Thank you, Richard,"  says the lovely Katherine.  

 

"Fix you a drink?" 

 

"I'd love one."

 

"Fine,"  Richard says, walking to his bar.  "What'll ya have?"

 

"Scotch if you have any."

 

"Of course.  So, how are things back in Dallas?"

 

"Well, I'm afraid I've run into a rather annoying problem in Dallas,"  replies Katherine.  "A real bitch named Marilee Stone, but, I'll take care of her in time."

 

"I have no doubt that you will,"  Richard says, handing Katherine her scotch.  "You might be interested to know that a member of your family is here in San Francisco and seems to have taken up with my youngest son, Kevin."

 

"Oh?  And who would that be?"

 

"Your brother Cliff's daughter, Emma Ryland,"  Richard replies.  

 

"Emma's here, in San Francisco?"  Asks as stunned Katherine.  "Well what the hell is she doing here?"

 

"The young lady CLAIMS she's here because she cares for my son.  But I don't buy it.  Strange she should show up just now."

 

"That's interesting,"  Katherine says.  "Last I heard, Emma was involved with Bobby Ewing's bastard son, Lucas.  The son he had with that tramp, Jenna Wade.  So she and Lucas are finished?"

 

"Apparently so,"  Richard says, taking a sip of his scotch.  "But the point is, I don't want that young woman involved with my son, or with my family in any way.  Especially since she's Bobby Ewing's stepdaughter."

 

"Do you think she's here spying for the Ewings?"

 

"The thought had crossed my mind.  I even asked her, and she denied it.  So, I'm having her thoroughly checked out."

 

Katherine smiles.  "You're a very smart man, Richard.  Powerful, smart, and almost as ruthless as I am.  Which is why I think you and I will make wonderful partners."

 

Richard smiles.  "Have you checked into a hotel yet?"

 

"No, I came straight here from the airport."

 

"Well, why don't you go check in and get settled?  Then we'll go out to dinner tonight and discuss things."

 

"That'll be fine,"  Katherine says.  "I'm going to be staying at The Omni.  I hear they have a wonderful restaurant in the hotel."

 

"Oh, they do.  I've eaten there numerous times.  So why don't I come by your room around, oh, say, 7 o'clock, and we'll go down and have dinner?"

 

"Sounds good,"  Katherine says, standing from her seat.  "I look forward to it."

 

"So do.  I also look forward to a long and rewarding partnership."

 

Katherine smiles, then walks out of the office.  

"Well, I'm real glad to hear that,"  Cole says.  "And if you're looking for houses, I highly recommend the Tuscany Valley."

 

Vicky smiles.  "You're just saying that because you want us nearby."

 

"I stand guilty.  But, not only would we be near one another, but Alex goes to school here in the Valley, so it'd be perfect."

 

"You're right, and Jeremy and I are seriously considering The Valley, if we can find the right house.  One that the whole family likes."

 

"Does that include your stepson?"  Cole asks.

 

"Of course, IF Jonathon wants to live with us.  But you never know with him."

 

"Vic, is everything okay?  I noticed a lot of tension between you and Jonathon the other day.  I take it you two aren't particularly close?"

 

"Not particularly,"  Vicky says.  "We never have been.  Jonathon has always resented me for taking his mother's place in Jeremy's life.  But, I didn't come here to talk about Jonathon."

 

"Oh?  But you did come here to talk about something?"  Cole asks.

 

"Yeah, I did.  I just needed to talk to my big brother about it."

 

"Okay, well, I'm listening."

 

Vicky sighs deeply.   "Lately........ever since Jeremy and I came to San Francisco, I've been thinking a lot about.......about my own son."

 

"And by that, you don't mean Alex, do you?"  Cole asks.

 

"No.  The son I had with Eric Stavros, and who I gave up for adoption.  And, I've been thinking about him especially hard today."

 

"Why today?"

 

"Because today is my son's birthday.  He would be 27 today, Cole.  27 years ago today, I gave birth to a baby boy that I only got to hold once, before I gave him up.  I don't know where he is, or what kind of man he's grown up to be.  What he looks like, or anything about him.  I don't even know if he's still alive or not.  Funny thing is, my son is around the same age as Jeremy's son, Jonathon.  In fact, their birthdays are even around the same time.  Jonathon's birthday is in a week and a half.  That's one reason it's always hurt me, that Jonathon has never really accepted me as his stepmother, even though he was only 7 when Jeremy and I married.  I tried to be a mother to him, but he just didn't want another mother."

 

Cole walks over to his sister and puts his arms around her.  "I'm so sorry, Vic.  I wish I had known at the time that you were going through that.  I would've been there for you.  So would Mom."

 

"Mom was married to Richard at the time and having her own drama to deal with.  I wasn't about to burden her with anymore of my problems.  But I miss her, Cole.  Dad, too.  God, they've both been for so long, but, I still miss them as much as if it was just last week that they both died."

 

"I know.  So do I.  Listen, Vicky, if you're really all that curious about your son, then why not try to find him?  I'd be glad to help."

 

"After all these years?"  Vicky asks.

 

"Sure, why not?  And even if he never knew he was adopted, and if you don't wanna reveal to him who you are, you can still find him and at least satisfy your own curiosity that he's okay."

 

Vicky looks at her brother.  "Maybe I should.  Thank you, Cole.  That's just what I'm gonna do.  I'm gonna find my son."

"Excuse me?"  Emma says.

 

"I heard that you were in San Francisco visiting a friend of yours........Kevin Channing.  Kevin's father, Richard, happens to be a friend of mine."

 

"Really?"  Asks as surprised Emma.  "Well, small world."

 

"Isn't it, though?"  Katherine asks with a smile.  "Well, I certainly hope that you enjoy your visit here, dear."

 

"Thank you.  So far I have."

 

"Wonderful.  While I'm in town, the two of us really should get together for lunch, or drinks."

 

"Why would you wanna do that?"  Emma asks.

 

"Well after all, you are my niece, and I'd like to get to know you a little better.  I'd love to get to know Pamela better as well, but, she seems to be stuck under Cliff's thumb.  You, on the other hand, seem to be much more independent than my brother's other daughter.  You actually remind me a lot of myself."

 

"I'm not sure whether to be flattered or insulted by that,"  says Emma.  

 

"I meant it strictly as a compliment."

 

Emma smiles.  "Well, have a good evening," she says, then walks away from Katherine.  

 

"My offer still stands for lunch,"  Katherine says.

 

Emma stops, turns back and smiles at her, then continues down the hall to her room as Katherine watches her, a devious expression on her face.

 

Emma walks into her room and takes her cell phone from her pocket.  She dials Kevin's number.  The phone rings several times, but there's no answer.  

 

 

"Come in, son,"  Richard says, greeting Kevin as he walks into his father's office.  "You want a drink?"

 

"No, thanks, Dad."

 

"Now then, what is it you wanted to talk to me about that couldn't wait until tonight?"  

 

"Well, I wanted to talk to you about Falcon Crest,"  Kevin says.  

 

"Falcon Crest?  What about Falcon Crest?"

 

"Are you aware that Falcon Crest is having a severe financial crisis?"

 

"No, I hadn't heard that,"  says Richard.  "Where did you get this information from?"

 

"Let's just say.......someone at Falcon Crest told me.  And, they need a large sum of money to get the winery out of debt and keep it from going under."

 

"I see.  And, uh, why haven't Lance or Emma come to me about this?"  Richard asks.

 

"As far as I know, Aunt Emma just found out about this today, and you know how Lance feels about coming to you for help."

 

"Just how far in debt are they?"  Richard asks.

 

"I'm not sure.  But I can find out."

 

"Good.  You do that.  In the meantime, I'll speak with Emma about this, and see what she has to say, and see if they even want my help."

 

"Well, even if they don't, you do own part of Falcon Crest, so it's your right to wanna protect what's yours,"  Kevin says as his cell phone rings again.  He takes the phone from his pocket.  "Dad, it's Emma.  I have to see what she wants.  Must be important."

 

Richard smiles.  "Yes, why don't you go see what the lovely Miss Ryland wants?"

 

Kevin walks out of his father's office and answers the call.  "Emma, what's up?"

 

"Hi, sweetheart,"  Emma says, talking to him from her Omni suite.  "We may have a problem."

 

 

"Uh-oh,"  Kevin says.  "What sort of problem?"

 

 

 

 

"Katherine Wentworth,"  Emma replies. 

 

"Katherine Wentworth?"  Kevin asks.

 

"Yeah.  My father's sister.  You remember, I told you about her."

 

 

 

 

 

"Oh yeah, now I remember,"  Kevin says.  "She's the one who was on the run for like thirty years.  Why is she a problem?"

 

 

"Because Katherine is in San Francisco,"  replies Emma.  "I just ran into her down the hall, right here at The Omni, and you'll never guess who she's in town to see."

 

"You're right, I'll never guess."

 

"None other than your father, Richard Channing."

 

 

 

"What?"  Kevin asks.  "She's here to see my father?  But why?"

 

"I don't know.  But trust me, if Katherine Wentworth is hooked up with your father in any way, then that means trouble."

 

 

 

"I think you're probably right,"  Kevin says.  "Listen, honey, I'm at my Dad's office right now.  I don't know what's going on, but I'm gonna find out.  I'll talk to you in a little while.  Thanks for letting me know.  Bye."  Kevin ends the call and puts his phone into his pocket.  After a moment's hesitation to let his mind process what Emma told him, Kevin walks back into his father's office.  

 

"Well, is everything alright with Miss Ryland?"  Richard asks.

 

"Yeah.  Only, she had some very interesting information to tell me."

 

"And what might that be?"

 

"Dad, what's your connection to Emma's Aunt, Katherine Wentworth?"  Kevin asks.

 

"Miss Wentworth happens to be a friend of mine."

 

"Is that all?"

 

Richard looks at his son angrily for  a moment.  "Kevin, I don't like this line of questioning, and I sure as hell don't like it from my own son.  My friendship with Miss Wentworth is none of your damned business."

 

"The woman is DANGEROUS, Dad.  Did you know she spent thirty years on the run as a fugitive?"

"Yes, I know.  She put a couple bullets in Bobby Ewing.  Too bad she was such a poor shot."

 

"How can you get mixed up with a woman like that?"  Kevin asks.

 

"Oh, I guess the same way you can get mixed up with a woman like Emma Ryland,"  Richard says.

 

His father's comment angers Kevin.  "How dare you say something like that to me."

 

"How dare I?  You come here to MY office asking all kinds of questions about Katherine Wentworth and my friendship with her, which is none of your business in the first place......"

 

"Okay, look, just forget it, okay?"  Says an angry Kevin.  "Just forget I came here."  The young man turns and walks out of his father's office.  He pauses outside of Richard's door and sighs deeply, then walks away.

"Angela St. James asked to meet me today.  And she told me that Falcon Crest is in trouble financially.  Like, on the verge of bankruptcy.  Angela asked me to speak to you about a very sizable loan to bail the company out and keep it from going under.  She even went so far as to inform me that the Giobertis, Vicky's family, still owns part of Falcon Crest vineyards, and that it's part of Alex's heritage."

 

Jeremy smiles.  "Young Angela definitely is not shy on brains, is she?  She's a very shrewd young woman, indeed.  Like her grandmother, Angela Channing."

 

"So what should I tell her?"  Jonathon asks.

 

 

Jeremy smiles.  "Well, this is a most unexpected, and........a most welcome surprise.  I could not have planned this any better myself."

 

"So you're actually gonna give them money to save their winery?"

 

"Oh, of course I am.  This is perfect.  Falcon Crest is on the verge of collapse.  I come in and rush to their rescue, and in the process, I come out owning Falcon Crest."

 

"I thought you were after that damned newspaper,"  says Jonathon.  "Your father had nothing to do with Falcon Crest. He didn't own any of it."

 

"No.  But his dear wife, Angela, did.  And so do the three children she had with my father......Richard, Julia, and Emma.  The Globe is only part of my plan, Jonathon.  I intend to own everything the Channings now own."

 

As Jonathon looks at his father in dismay, Vicky comes in from the bathroom.  "Well, I'm all set," she says.  "Oh, Jonathon, hello.  Are you joining us for dinner?"

 

"No, I'm not."

 

"Actually, yes,"  Jeremy says.  "Son, I would love for you to join us.  Your brother is spending the night with a new friend, some boy he's made friends with at school, so, since he isn't here to have dinner with us, we would love for you to."  Jeremy gives his son a look that says he'd better agree to have dinner with them or else.

 

"I'm not exactly dressed for it."

 

"You look fine,"  Vicky says.

 

"Yeah, okay, then, sure,"  Jonathon says, reluctantly agreeing.

 

Jeremy smiles again.  "Well, then, shall we go?"

 

"Ready when you are,"  Vicky says.  "And I'm starving."

 

"Then let's go have the most expensive gourmet dinner the restaurant has to offer,"  Jeremy says as he leaves with his wife and son.  

"Channing,"  Jeremy says, unable to take his eyes off Katherine.  

"Oh, where are my manners?"  Richard asks.  "Jeremy and Victoria Lord, this is Miss Katherine Wentworth.  Katherine, may I present my former step-daughter, her husband, and......"

 

 

 

"My stepson, Jonathon,"  Vicky says.  

 

"Oh yes.  Kevin and Michael's new friend.  Well, you all have a pleasant dinner."

 

"Thank you, Richard, and the same to you,"  Vicky says, somewhat coldly.  "Jeremy, shall we go in?"

 

"Yes,"  Jeremy replies, his face white as if he's seen a ghost.  

 

Katherine, meanwhile, continues to stare at Jeremy Lord and his son as the group walks into the restaurant and away from her and Richard.  

 

"Dad, who was that woman?"  Jonathon asks his father as they are led to a table.  "She looks familiar.  I know I've seen her someplace."

 

"No one, son,"  Jeremy says.  "No one at all."

 

Meanwhile, Katherine stands in the doorway of the restaurant and continues staring at the Lords.  "Richard, I........I've suddenly lost my appetite,"  Katherine says, her voice shaky.  "I don't think I wanna go to dinner."

 

"Katherine, what's wrong?"  Richard asks.  "You look as though you've seen a ghost.  Or was it.......Jeremy Lord?  You act like you know him?"

 

Katherine looks at him.

 

"Well?  Do you, Katherine?  Do you know Jeremy Lord?"

 

Katherine looks into the restaurant at the Lords as they are seated at their table.  "Yes, Richard, I know him," she says sadly.

 

"How?  Just how the hell do you know Jeremy Lord?"  Richard asks.

 

"I was married to him,"  Katherine replies, to Richard's shock.  "And........he's the father of my two sons, Austin and..........and Jonathon."

 

A look of absolute shock comes over Richard's face upon hearing Katherine's revelation that Jeremy Lord was once her husband.......and that Jonathon is her son!!