Emma Channing paces frantically around the living room at Falcon Crest as Lance and his son Eric are out searching the property for Julia, who had disappeared earlier that afternoon.  Pilar comes down the stairs and walks into the living room.  

 

"Emma, try and calm down,"  Pilar says.  "I'm sure that Lance and Eric will find Julia."

 

"I hope so, Pilar.  But I'm just so worried.  Julia, she.......she just doesn't seem herself."

 

"What do you mean by that?"  Pilar asks.

 

"She just seems..........I dunno, Pilar, just..........different.  More quiet, more subdued."

 

At that moment, Lance and Eric walk into the house.  Pilar and Emma rush into the foyer to meet them.  "Have you found her?"  Emma asks.

 

"No,"  Lance replies.  "We looked every place we could think of.  Down by the winery, inside the winery, down by the pond."

"Yeah we even looked in a couple of the vinyards,"  adds Eric.  No sign of her."

 

"Maybe we should call the police,"  says Emma.

 

"I don't think that's necessary, Emma,"  Lance says.  "I'm gonna go out and look again."

 

"Lance, look WHERE?"  Pilar asks.  "You just said you looked every place you could think of."

 

"Honey, Falcon Crest covers a lot of land."

 

"Dad, she could be anywhere,"  says Eric.  "You don't even know where else to look, and besides, it's pitch dark out there."

 

"I'll take flash lights.  I can't just sit here and do nothing.  I don't wanna call the sheriff just yet, but I have to try to find her.  She could be laying out there hurt or something."

 

"Okay, then, I'll come with you,"  Eric says.

 

"Fine, let's go then."  

 

As Lance and Eric are about to leave, Julia walks into the house, much to everyone's shock.  "Well, what's going on?"  She asks, totally oblivious to everyone's worry.

 

"Julia, thank God,"  Emma says with relief.

 

"Mom, where have you been?"  Asks an annoyed Lance.

 

"Well, I went for a walk,"  Julia says.  "I told Eric I was going for a walk."

 

"Yeah, but, Grandma, that was HOURS ago,"  says Eric.

 

"Mom, are you okay?"  Lance asks.

 

"I'm fine.  Hey, I'm sorry, I didn't mean to worry everyone.  I just went down to the winery, and decided I'd walk around the property a little bit.  It's been so long since I've done that.  And now, if you all don't mind, I think I'm just gonna go on up to bed.  I'm exhausted."

 

"Julia, what about dinner?"  Pilar asks.  "You must be starving."

 

"No, thank you, dear,"  Julia says, looking at her daughter-in-law with a smile.  "I'm not hungry.  Just tired.  Goodnight, Lance."  Julia kisses her son on the cheek, then walks past her family and up the stairs.

"Wow, that was just........weird,"  Eric says.

 

"Lance, your mother is acting very strangely,"  Emma says.  

 

"Yeah, she's been a little different.  But, it could just be the excitement of being home.  Or just nerves."

 

"No.  Lance, I know my sister better than just about anybody, and I know.....something is definitely wrong with Julia."

 

Lance looks at his aunt with concern, then he and Pilar exchange worried looks, both of them also wondering why Julia has been acting so strangely since she's been home.

 

 

Michael's sleep is restless early the next morning, as he lays in bed, John Ross's words about Elena echoing through his mind as he makes an attempt to get at least a few more minutes of sleep before having to get up and get another day and week started.  

"Elena, there has to be a way,"  Michael says.  "Sure, John Ross won that last custody case.  But what if........."  Michael pauses.

 

"What if.......WHAT, Michael?"  Elena asks, concerned about his answer.

 

"What if John Ross's home life wasn't as neat and tidy as it looked in court to that judge?"

 

"I don't follow."

 

"You know John Ross, probably better than anybody,"  says Michael.  "What if he were to cheat on his wife?"

 

"What if?  Hah!  I'd honestly be surprised if he hasn't already,"  Elena says.  

 

"Do you think she would ever cheat on him?"  Michael asks.

 

"I have no idea.  I don't know Krystina that well.  Michael, what are you getting at?"

 

"Maybe John Ross has cheated on her, and maybe he hasn't.......yet.  I was just thinking, maybe we should help speed things along.  Maybe with a little help, John Ross and Krystina might both engage in a little.........extramarital activity on the side.  And if that judge is aware that the Ewing home is so dysfunctional, with cheating spouses, you'd stand a much better chance of regaining custody of your son."

 

"Michael, I don't know,"  Elena says.  "This whole thing sounds very.....risky.  Besides, even though I wanna hurt John Ross and pay him back for all the pain he's caused me, Krystina has never done anything to me, and I'd hate to see her get caught in the crossfire."

 

Michael sighs.  "She's hasn't done anything to you except replace you in your son's life, Elena."

 

"But, Michael....."

 

"Look, Elena, I'm sorry.  I have nothing against John Ross's wife, either, other than the fact that she's married to that jackass.  She even seems like a nice person.  But sometimes, even innocent people get caught in the crossfire in a war, and John Ross Ewing started a war with my family.  I'll do whatever it takes to break him, and if his wife gets hurts, I'm sorry, but that's just the way it's gonna have to be.  I'm gonna take a shower."  Michael stands to his feet, then walks into the bathroom, closing the door behind him, leaving Elena concerned about her husband's hatred toward John Ross, and where this would lead.

 

 

Kevin wakes up that morning in Emma Ryland's suite at The Omni Hotel and finds Emma gone. He sits up in bed.  "Emma," he calls out to her.  Emma, honey, where are you?"

 

No reply.

 

"Emma?"  Kevin again calls as he gets out of bed.  

 

Meanwhile, Emma is in the bathroom, throwing up in the toilet, when she hears Kevin calling her name.  

 

"Emma?"  Kevin calls a third time as he knocks on the bathroom door.  "Emma are you in there?"  You okay?"

"Kevin, I......I'm fine,"  Emma replies.  "I'll be out in just a minute."

 

"Honey, you sure you're alright?"

 

"Yes."  Emma flushes the toilet, then walks over to the sink and looks at herself.  Still feeling slightly sick, she washes her face with some cold water, then pats it dry with a towel.  She then rinses her mouth with some mouth wash.  Composing herself, she walks out of the bathroom and back into the bedroom, where she finds a worried Kevin waiting.

 

"Are you alright?"  He asks.

 

"I'm fine, I just felt a little sick,"  Emma says.  "Probably that fish we had for dinner last night, and we ate so late."

 

"You do look a little pale.  Hope you're not coming down with something."

 

"I don't think so.  I'll be fine."

 

"I don't guess you feel like breakfast, then?"  Kevin asks.

 

"No.  But why don't you go on downstairs and have breakfast?  I'm just gonna lie back down for a while."

 

"You sure?"  Kevin asks.  "I could lay down with you."  He kisses her.

 

"No,"  Emma says with a smile.  "I'd really like to get some more sleep."

 

Kevin smiles at her.  "Okay," he says.  "Tell you what?  I have some errands to run, and then I need to drop by and see my Dad.  So, why don't I just stay gone a couple hours, and let you get some sleep?"  

 

"Yeah, that sounds good.  I didn't sleep much last night."

 

He kisses her on the forehead, then leaves.  

 

After he's gone, Emma waits for a minute, then walks to the door and peeks into the hall.  Once she's made sure that Kevin is gone, she quickly gets dressed, then leaves the hotel suite.

 

 

Vicky and Alex are finishing their breakfast in their hotel suite that morning when Jeremy comes in from the bathroom.  Alex has his phone out and is texting someone.  

 

"Alex, honey, hurry and eat your breakfast or you'll be late for school,"  Vicky tells her son.

 

Alex puts his phone down and sighs.  "Jonathon still isn't answering my texts.  I've called a million times and no answer.  Something must be wrong."

 

"I've already told you,"  Jeremy says.  "Nothing is wrong.  Your brother is simply out of town on business for me."

 

"Then why isn't he answering my calls or texts?"  Alex wonders.

 

"I really don't know.  Perhaps he's simply busy.  I spoke with your brother yesterday, and he was fine, so stop worrying."

 

"Well, come on, honey, I'll drop you off at school,"  Vicky says.

 

"Yeah.  Dad, when am I gonna get my own car?"

 

"Soon,"  Jeremy says.  "First thing is first.  We have to find a house for this family, and get settled, and THEN, we'll see about getting you a car."

 

"Yeah, sure,"  the teenager says, sounding skeptical.  

 

"Honey, you go on out to the car, and I'll be right there,"  Vicky says, handing her son the keys.  Alex takes his mother's car keys, grabs his book bag, and then leaves.  "Jeremy, what's going on?"  Vicky asks her husband.

 

"Victoria, I haven't the foggiest notion of what you're talking about,"  Jeremy says.

 

"I'm talking about Jonathon.  Where is he, Jeremy?"

"As I told the boy, Jonathon is out of town on business."

 

"What kind of business?"  Vicky inquires.

 

"Really, Victoria, I don't like this line of questioning.  Now, shouldn't you be getting the boy to school before he's late?"

 

Vicky looks at her husband for a moment, then nods, realizing she wasn't going to get any answers from Jeremy now.  So, without another word, she picks up her purse and walks out.

 

After his wife is gone, Jeremy picks his cell phone up from the table in front of him and dials a number.  On the second ring, a man answers.  "It's Jeremy Lord.  My son can be.......undetained now.  The danger has passed.  Just let him out, and bring him to my office in an hour."  Jeremy ends the call and puts his phone down.  He smiles.

 

 

 

"Son, you were not kidnapped,"  Jeremy says, standing from his seat and walking over to him.  "You were merely being detained to protect you.  To keep you out of harm's way.  There was a kidnapping threat made to my office.  I had no choice to protect you."

"So one of your goons informed me,"  Jonathon says.  "Call it what you will, Dad, I still wasn't able to leave.  So who was it threatening to kidnap me?"

 

"Just an old enemy of mine.  They have been neutralized, and now the danger has passed."

 

"Why me?  Why not Alex, or Vicky?"

 

"Because my enemies know that my wife and your brother live with me, and are much harder to get to than you are.  Which is why I was forced to hide you away for a while, until the danger was passed.  Now, once we find a home for our family, I do hope that you would consider moving in with us."

 

"Well you know how I feel about that,"  says Jonathon.  "Anyway, I just wanted to stop by and let you know that I didn't appreciate being......'detained'.......by your goons.  Now, if you'll excuse me, I have things to do."  Jonathon turns and starts to leave.

 

"Jonathon?"  Jeremy calls to his son.  

 

The young man stops at the door and looks back at his father.  "What?"

 

"Even though the danger has passed for now, continue to be careful, and aware of your surroundings."

 

"Yeah, you can be damned sure of that,"  Jonathon says, then walks out of the office.

 

Jeremy sighs deeply.  "Damn you, Katherine," he says quietly once alone in the office.  

 

 

 

 

Sitting at his desk in his office at The San Francisco Globe early in the afternoon, Michael turns to his laptop on his desk and pulls up Google.  He types John Ross Ewing's name into the search bar and waits for the results.  As he scrolls down the page, he picks up his cell phone and dials a number.  He sits back and impatiently waits for an answer.  

Finally, someone picks up on the other end.  "Yes, may I please speak with Joshua McQueen?  Michael Channing.  Yes, I'll wait."  Michael stands to his feet and walks over to the window and looks out at the city as he waits for the person to come on the line.  Finally, a man answers.  

 

"Michael, what can I do for you?"  The man asks on the other end of the line.

 

"Josh, listen, I know it's been a long time, but I was just wondering, do you still have contacts in the Dallas-Fort Worth area?"

 

"Yeah, I do.  Why do you ask?"

 

"I have a job for you, and I'm gonna need for you to utilize those contacts."

 

"What's the job?"  McQueen asks.

 

"I need someone tailed,"  Michael replies.  "Actually, two people.  A husband and wife.  John Ross Ewing III, and his wife, Krystina Carrington Ewing."

 

"John Ross Ewing?  As in Ewing Oil?"  

 

"That's the one.  I wanna know every place Ewing and his wife go, everyone they talk to or meet with.  And don't worry, Josh, I'll make this WELL worth your while."

 

"I'll get right on it."

 

"Great.  And I want a report soon.  ASAP.  Thanks, Josh.  Bye."  Michael ends the call, puts his phone down and smiles.

 

"And what do you think that is, Emma?"  Richard asks.

 

"Oh, Richard, I have no idea.  She's just not.......herself.  Not Julia."

 

"In what way?"

 

"I can't explain it,"  says Emma.  "Richard, I'm sorry to bother you in the middle of the day, but I needed to talk to you alone, while everyone was out."

 

"Alright, now where is Julia now?"  Richard asks.

 

"She went into town with Pilar."

 

"Emma, I know I haven't been around Julia much since she's been back, but she seemed perfectly fine when the two of you visited at Christmas."

"And she was,"  Emma says.  "Richard, whatever's happened.......whatever's CHANGED.....has happened since Christmas."

 

"And you can't explain how Julia is different?"  Richard asks.  "Can you at least give me a couple of examples of how Julia's different now?"

 

"Well, for one thing, her leaving the convent in the first place.  Richard, she never would've decided to just up and leave.  That convent has been Julia's home for 29 years, and she loved it there.  And then there was her disappearing for a few weeks after she left the convent.  We still have no idea where she was all that time, and Julia won't tell us.  All she'll say is that she needed some time alone, for herself."

 

"Well I admit that all does sound a bit peculiar."

 

"It's more than peculiar, Richard.  And then, the other night Julia again disappeared.  She said she was going for a walk in the afternoon and she was gone for HOURS.  Lance and Eric were out looking for her, and then she just walked into the house like nothing had happened."

 

Richard sighs.  "Alright, Emma, well, what do you want me to do about all this?"

 

"I don't really know.  Maybe you could talk to Julia.  Spend some time with her, and see if you notice any change in her."

 

"I'm not sure that would really do any good, Emma, because I haven't been around Julia that much in years.  Only when the two of you would come home for a visit on holidays and such, so, I'm not sure if I would be the best judge on whether or not she's acting any differently.  What does Lance think?"

 

"He sees a difference in her, too.  But he just shrugs it off and says it's probably just because she's glad to be home."

 

"That could be it,"  says Richard.  

 

"No, Richard.  That's NOT it.  Richard, I know my sister very well.  Better than anyone.  I've spent a lot of time with Julia in the last eight years since Mother died and I moved up to Oregon to be near her.  And I KNOW.  Something about her is very different.  Even her eyes."

 

"Her eyes?"

 

"Yes.  She has this glassy stare.  Almost as if she doesn't really see you when she's looking at you."

 

"Alright, well, again, what can I do?"  Richard asks.

 

"Talk to her, and you'll see what I mean.  Or maybe you could......I dunno, try and find out where she was all those weeks she was gone from the convent.  Richard you have a lot of resources.  Please, use them.  For me, and for Julia."

 

Richard looks at his sister for a moment, and then nods.  "Alright, Emma.  I'll do all I can."

 

Emma smiles at him.  "Thank you, Richard.  I knew I could count on you."

 

Richard puts his arm around his sister and they embrace.

 

"Sup, man?"  Nick greets, his tone sounding angry.  

 

"What's goin' on?  You seem like you wanna punch someone."

 

Nick sighs.  "Yeah, bro, I just blew a real important test in American History."

 

"American History? Dude, seriously?  That's your best subject."

 

"Yeah, I know,"  Nick says, suddenly becoming unsteady on his feet.

 

"Hey, bro, are you okay?"  Alex asks, grabbing Nick by the arm.  "You look terrible. Kinda pale."

 

"Yeah, I'm not feeling so good at all today.  Kinda dizzy and lightheaded."

 

"Maybe you should see the school nurse,"  says Alex.  

 

"Nah, I'm fine.  Just......tired and REALLY stressed, dude.  Haven't been sleeping well, either.  Look, I gotta get to my next class.  You wanna hang out with me and Gabby after school?"

 

"Well, yeah, but, you sure you're up to it?"  Alex asks.

 

"Yeah, I'll be fine.  See ya after school."

 

"Sure, bro,"  Alex says as Nick walks away.  Alex watches Nick as he heads down the hall, then he sees Nick stop near the boy's restroom.  Nick wipes his nose as he has yet ANOTHER nosebleed.  Alex watches his friend with concern as Nick ducks into the bathroom to take care of the nosebleed.  Despite the fact that he may be late for class, Alex makes his way down the hall and into the bathroom, where he finds Nick at the sink, holding his head back, a piece of paper towel to his nose to catch the blood flow.  "Nick, bro....."

 

"Ah, these damned nosebleeds,"  Nick says.  "It's getting so I have them a couple times a day, or more."

 

"Dude, seriously, you need to see a doctor."

 

"No need.  It's just my sinuses.  I use to get these when I was little.  Look, go on to class or you'll be late.  Mrs. Sanders won't like that."

 

"You gonna be okay, bro?"  Alex asks.

 

"I'll be fine.  It'll stop in a minute,"  Nick says.  "I'll see you after school."

 

Alex nods, then walks to the door.  He looks back at his friend again, holding two paper towels covered in blood.  A worried look comes over Alex's face, then he walks out.

 

 

 

 

"Why, what happened?"  Asks a curious and concerned Angela.

"What happened?  My father happened,"  Jonathon replies.

 

"What?"  Angela asks, confused.

 

"Apparently, there was this kidnapping threat targeting me, and my father took matters into his own hands and decided to have me kidnapped himself to keep me out of reach of the real kidnappers."

 

"You're kidding."

 

"Angela, look at my face.......do I LOOK like I'm kidding?"

 

"I'm sorry.  Wow.  That's pretty messed up."

 

"Yeah," says Jonathon.  "I'm not sure which would've been worse, being kidnapped for real, or being......'detained'...........by my father's goons."

 

"I'm sorry, that must've been terrible,"  Angela says.

 

"Yeah, well, anyway, what can I do for you?"

 

"Well, our new line of fine wines is about to be marketed in a day or so, and once it hits the market, Falcon Crest will be able to make our first payment on our loan to your father."

 

"Good,"  Jonathon says.  "I'm sure he'll be happy to hear that."

 

At that moment, Alex walks into the restaurant with Gabby and Nick.  They see Jonathon and Angela and walk over to them. "Jonathon, dude," Alex says, excited to see his older brother.  

 

"Hey, little bro,"  Jonathon says, embracing Alex.

 

"Man, where the hell have you been?"  Alex asks.  "I've called and texted you a hundred times the last few days."

 

Jonathon looks at Angela, then at his brother.  "Yeah, well, I'm sorry about that, buddy.  I was out of town on business for Dad. Kinda top secret stuff."

 

"I was worried sick."

 

"He really was, I can vouch for that,"  Gabby says.

 

"Oh, hey, Jonathon, you haven't met my friends,"  Alex says.  "Gabby Cumson and Nick Fairchild, this is my big brother, Jonathon Lord."

 

"Hey, guys,"  Jonathon says.

 

"Hey, what's up, dude?"  Nick asks, shaking Jonathon's hand.  

 

"Have you guys had dinner?" Jonathon asks.

 

"Not yet,"  Alex replies, then smiles.  "That's why we're here.  I wanted to see my big brother, and I was kinda hoping he'd be nice enough to treat me and my friends to dinner." 

 

Jonathon looks at his brother with a smile. "Okay, sure, I'd be glad to.  Angela, would you care to join us?"

 

"No, thanks.  I'm actually having dinner with my Mom.  I'll see you later, Jonathon."

 

"Bye,"  Jonathon says as she walks away.

 

"Dude, who was that?"  Alex asks.  "She's pretty hot."

 

"Down boy,"  Gabby says.  "That's Angela St. James.  Not only is she about eight years too old for you, but she also HAPPENS to be one of your cousins."

 

"That girl's my cousin?"  

 

"Yep.  Her mother is Emma Channing, my grandmother's sister."

 

A confused look comes over Alex's face.  "Isn't there ANYONE in this stupid Valley that I'm NOT related to?"

 

"Well you're not related to me,"  Nick says.

 

"Yeah, thank God for small miracles,"  Alex jokes with a smile.

 

"Come on, guys, let's get a table,"  Jonathon suggests.

 

Meanwhile, across the room, Kevin is having dinner with Emma Ryland, and he notices she's just playing with her food with her fork.  "Hey," he says after a long silence.  "That spaghetti isn't gonna eat itself, y'know.  You have to do that."

 

"What?  I'm sorry, what did you say?"  Emma asks, having not heard anything Kevin said.

 

"Emma, what's going on with you tonight?"  Kevin asks.  "You've been like super distracted all day.  What's on your mind?"

 

"I'm sorry, Kevin, I'm just not very hungry,"  Emma says.

 

"Emma come on, whatever's bothering you, you can tell me."

 

"I guess I........I'm just missing home."

 

"Home?  You mean Dallas?"

 

"I miss my mother.  She phoned me today, and asked me to come home."

 

 

"And?  Are you going to?"  Kevin asks.

 

"I was thinking about going back for a few days, to see my mother."

 

Kevin nods.  "Okay, then, great.  I'll come with you."

 

"No, you don't have to."

 

"Emma, I want to.  I wanna be with you."

 

"I know, and I feel the same way,"  Emma says.  "But, given how the Ewings feel about your family, I really think I should go alone."

 

"I see.  So, you're going back to Dallas to see your mother."

 

"Yes."

 

"And what about Lucas?  Are you planning on seeing him while you're there?"

 

"Well, since he lives at Southfork, I'm bound to see him.  Kevin, look, Lucas and I are OVER.  I thought I'd already made that clear to you.  I'm with you now."

 

"So what are you gonna tell your mother?"  Kevin asks.  "Are you gonna move out here to be with me?"

 

"Yes.  That's one thing that I wanna talk to her about, and I need to do that alone.  I'm not sure how she's gonna take it."

 

"I understand,  Kevin says.  He reaches across the table and takes her by the hand.  "I love you, Emma Ryland.  It's gonna be hard for me to be without you, even for a few days.  But, knowing that you're coming back to me makes it easier."

 

Emma looks at Kevin and manages a weak smile.

 

"Mom always did enjoy early morning walks,"  Lance says.

 

"Pilar, how did it go yesterday, when you and Julia went shopping?"  Emma Channing asks.

 

"It went fine, but......"  Pilar pauses a moment.

 

"But what, honey?"  Lance asks.

 

"I'm not sure.  Julia was very quiet yesterday.  Hardly said a word.  And, there were times when I would say something to her, and it was almost as if she didn't even hear me.  It was like she was terribly preoccupied by something."

"Lance, I'm really worried about Julia,"  Emma says.

 

Lance sighs.  "Emma, Mom is FINE.  She's just trying to adjust and get use to being back home here at Falcon Crest again after all these years.  Soon, she'll settle in and everything will be fine.  I'm just really happy to have you and Mom back here again. It's almost like the old days."

 

"Just one big, happy family, huh Dad?"  Eric asks sarcastically.

 

Before Lance can respond, the doorbell rings.  Chang-Li walks into the foyer and opens the door to find Nick, who walks into the house and into the dining room.  

 

"Morning, everyone."

 

"Morning, Nick,"  Pilar says.  "Care for some breakfast?"

 

"No, thanks, Mrs. Cumson, I had breakfast at home."

 

"Nick, are you okay?"  Lance asks.  "You don't look so good."

 

"I'm fine, Mr. Cumson.  Just haven't been getting a whole lotta sleep lately, that's all.  Been up late studying."

 

"That's what I like to hear,"  Eric says, again with sarcasm in his voice.  "A young man, hitting those books hard, trying to get that education for his future."

 

"Come on, Nick, let's go,"  Gabby says, getting up from the table.  

 

"I'll pick you up after school, and we'll go see if we can't find you a dress for the prom,"  Pilar tells her daughter.

 

"Okay, Mom.  Bye everyone."

 

"Bye, have a good day,"  Emma tells the girl as Gabby and Nick leave.  

 

The two teens exit the house and get into Nick's car parked in front of the porch.  Gabby notices her boyfriend looks very pale.  "Nick, you sure you're okay?"

 

"Yeah, just........I really haven't felt so good.  But I'll be fine.  I'm just tired, is all."  He leans over and kisses her, then starts his car and they drive away headed for another day at school.

Down at the winery, meanwhile, Julia is walking around looking at the numerous barrels of wine that line the interior of the building.  She sees a man, a winery employee, inspecting some of the barrels.  She pauses a moment and ducks around a corner, watching the man.  She waits until the man is finished, then quietly slips past the barrels he had been inspecting.  She makes her way down  a hall until she reaches the laboratory.  Pausing outside the door to the lab, she reaches into her jacket pocket and pulls out a syringe filled with a dark liquid.  Julia smiles deviously, then opens the door and walks into the lab,

"I was just marveling at how beautiful you are, and how lucky I am,"  Michael says.  

 

"Such a flatterer."

 

"Merely telling the truth.  Elena, how would you feel about us starting a family?"

 

"Starting a family?"  Elena asks.

 

"Yeah,"  replies Michael.  "Give Little Drew.....or Little John.....a brother or sister to grow up with."

 

"I really love the sound of that," Elena says.  "And I'm sure Little John would love to have a brother or sister.  But, why this sudden urge to have kids of our own."

 

"Well, I've been doing some thinking.  I'm 30-years-old, and it's time I started thinking about the future.  Everything is gonna work out, Elena,"  Michael says.  "Everything's gonna be okay.  I promise.  And soon, you won't have to only see your little boy by way of visits supervised by John Ross and his wife."

 

"What do you mean?"  Elena asks, a concerned tone in her voice.

 

"I had a private detective friend of mine who has some contacts in Dallas to do some digging into John Ross and Krystina's activities, and to put a tail on both."

 

"You did WHAT?  Michael, that was NOT a good idea."

 

"I think it was,"  Michael says.  "Look, Elena, John Ross is bound to screw up somehow, and soon.  Either he'll cheat on Krystina, or he'll pull some underhanded, if not illegal business deal, and when he does, that will be our chance to expose him for what he really is and get your son back."

 

"And maybe get revenge on John Ross for yourself?"  Elena asks.

 

"Why not kill two birds with one stone?  But mainly, I wanna get revenge on that jerk for YOU, Elena.  John Ross has put you through so much, and he needs to pay for that."

 

"I just hope this doesn't backfire,"  Elena says.

 

"It WON'T,"  Michael says, standing to his feet.  "Trust me.  John Ross WILL screw up.  And just as soon as he does, I'm gonna nail his ass and get that little boy back where he belongs......with his mother."

 

Elena remains silent as she puts her arms around Michael and lays her head against his shoulder.  Privately she worries that her husband's plan might come back to bite them if John Ross finds out Michael is having he and Krystina followed.

 

"Oh, I love it, too,"  replies Cole.  "It's really a beautiful place."

 

"And the best part, we'd be right down the street from one another."

 

"Soooo?"  The real estate agent says, anxiously.

 

"Well, of course I'd have to talk to my husband, and let him take a look at the place, but, honestly, I'm sold on it."

 

The real estate woman smiles.  "Oh, that's wonderful, Mrs. Lord.  And I'm certain your husband is going to love this house as much as you do.  Welcome to the Tuscany Valley."

 

Vicky smiles.  "Thank you, Mrs. Keene.  Tell you what, I'll show my husband the photos I took, and we'll drop by this afternoon with our son and take a look.  But I don't see a problem.  I'll give you a call later today."

 

"I look forward to hearing from you, Mrs. Lord.  Take care."

 

"You, too."

 

Mrs. Keene walks to her car and gets in.  

 

Vicky turns to Cole.  "I'm really excited about this," she says.  "I think we're gonna be really happy here."

 

"I'm sure of it,"  Cole says.  

 

"Cole, I can't thank you enough for coming house hunting with me."

 

"It's no problem, sis.  Now that both Joseph and Chase are working at Gioberti and Sons, I can afford to take some time off here and there.  Come on.  I'll treat you to an early lunch."

"Yes, this is Emma Ryland, I'm a patient of Dr. Stewart's.  Would there be any chance that Dr. Stewart can see me as soon as possible?  Maybe tomorrow morning or afternoon?"

 

"Dr. Stewart has an opening this afternoon at 2:30."

 

"I'm afraid that wouldn't work,"  Emma says.  "I'm out of town right now, but I'll be flying home to Dallas this afternoon."

 

"Okay, let me look at the doctor's schedule,"  the woman says.  Then after a brief pause, she comes back on the line:  "How about tomorrow at 11:00?"

 

"That's perfect, thank you."

 

"And what was that name again?"  

 

"Emma Ryland.  That's R-Y-L-A-N-D."

 

"Got it.  See you tomorrow."

 

"Thank you,"  Emma says.  She ends the call, puts down her phone, and sighs.  "I have to find out how far along I am,"  she says to herself.  "And.......who my baby's father.  Kevin?  Or Lucas?"

 

 

"Julia that's only because we all love you and we're concerned about you,"  Richard says.  "The whole family was frantic during those weeks you were missing, and I even hired a private detective to find you."

 

"And I appreciate that, REALLY I do.  But, there was no need to worry.  As I told the rest of the family, I just needed some time to myself."

 

As Richard and Julia continue chatting, Jeremy and Vicky walk over to their table.  "Well, well,"  Jeremy says.  "Hello, Richard."

 

"Lord.  Vicky,"  Richard greets in a not-so-friendly tone.

 

"Richard,"  Vicky says.

 

 

 

 

"And who is your charming lunch companion?"  Jeremy asks, looking at Julia.

 

"This is my sister, Julia Cumson,"  Richard replies.  "Julia, you of course know Vicky, and this is her husband, Jeremy Lord."

 

"Mrs. Cumson, it's a pleasure to meet you,"  Jeremy says.

"It's a pleasure to meet you, as well, Mr. Lord,"  Julia says.

 

"Please, call me Jeremy."

 

"Alright.....Jeremy.  Vicky, you're looking well.  I hear you've moved back to the Tuscany Valley."

 

"Yes, that's right,"  Vicky says.  "Jeremy, we should get to our table."

 

"Of course,"  says Jeremy.  "Richard, nice seeing you again.  Mrs. Cumson."

 

"Take care,"  Julia says as Jeremy and Vicky walk away.  Julia then looks at Richard after the Lords are gone.  "Charming man.  Handsome, too.  I get the feeling you don't like him very much."

 

"I don't trust him,"  Richard says.

 

Meanwhile, Jeremy and Vicky take their seats at their table.  "Julia isn't one of your favorite people, obviously,"  says Jeremy.

 

"I despise that woman,"  Vicky says.  "She murdered Carlo Agretti and framed Cole for it, and then she killed my grandmother. Julia Cumson belongs in prison instead of walking around free."

 

"I was thinking about MAYBE asking Sierra Davis,"  Alex replies.

 

"Well, you'd better hurry before someone else asks her."

 

"Dude, I can't believe you don't have a date yet,"  Nick says.  "Prom is next week."

 

"Yeah, well, I haven't been here that long, bro, so I still don't know too many people yet."

 

"Tell you what,"  says Gabby.  "I'll talk to Sierra for you.  We're pretty good friends, and I'll put in a good word for you."

 

Alex smiles.  "Thanks, cuz."

 

"No problem.  Gotta go guys, I see my Mom waiting.  Nick, call me later."

 

"Count on it,"  Nick says, giving her a quick kiss on the lips.  Gabby smiles, then walks away toward Pilar's car, waiting in the parking lot in a line of cars picking students up.  Nick watches his girlfriend as she gets into her mother's car, then he turns to

Alex.  "Well, you ready, bro?"

 

"Yeah.  Sure you don't mind giving me a ride back to San Francisco?"  Alex asks.

 

"Nah.  Besides, with Gabby having to go shopping with her Mom, I didn't have anything better to do.  You wanna grab a bite to eat first?"

 

"Yeah, sounds great,"  Alex replies.  "How about Del Oro?  We can eat on my brother's account."

 

"Sure he won't mind?"  Nick asks.  "After all, he did buy us dinner last night."

 

"He won't mind.  He told me I could use his account anytime."

 

"Let's go then, I'm starved."

 

 

"Hello, Jeremy,"  John Ross says, sitting at his desk at Ewing Oil.  "John Ross Ewing here."

 

"

 

 

 

"Well, John Ross,"  Jeremy says.  "This is quite a surprise, I must say.  I assume that this is important, since you're phoning me.  Something to do with one or both of our mutual enemies, no doubt.  Richard or Katherine?"

"Yes, Jeremy, I am indeed callin' with some very important information for you,"  John Ross says.  "Information that will no doubt change your entire life, and quite possibly change the entire dynamics of our little revenge plan against Richard Channing and Katherine Wentworth.  I had my private detective do a little research, Jeremy, into Katherine's past.......her past as your wife, when she was livin' under the assumed name of Andrea Lord.  Katherine gave birth to your son, Jonathon, in 1989, am I right?"

"Just hold your horses, Jeremy, I'm gettin' there,"  says John Ross.  "As I said, Katherine gave birth to your firstborn son Jonathon in February of 1989, and then, in August of 1993, a second son was born."

"Well, Jeremy, you'd better hold onto your hat,"  John Ross says.  "Because what I gotta tell you is gonna blow you away. Jeremy, your son did NOT die on August 19, 1993, as Katherine led you to believe.  Your son is alive and very well, and livin' right here in Dallas, where he runs Katherine's comp'ny, Wentworth Industries.  I'm about to email you a complete profile on your son, Austin Wentworth."  John Ross reaches over to his laptop sitting on his desk and looks at an email containing a photo and a short biography of Wentworth CEO Austin Wentworth.  John Ross presses the 'send' button.

"John Ross, what the hell are you telling me?"  Jeremy asks.  "My.....my son is ALIVE and in Dallas, with Katherine?"

 

"That's right,"  John Ross replies.  "You should be gettin' my email soon, Jeremy.  And when you do.......I know you'll be as anxious to take Katherine Wentworth down as I am."  Without another word, John Ross hangs up, leaving Jeremy stunned.  

 

He quickly opens his email app on his computer on his desk.  John Ross's email has just arrived.  As Jeremy scrolls down the email and reads Austin's biography, and sees a photo of the young man, Jeremy's heart begins to pound.  This young man, 

Jeremy sees the resemblance between Austin and Jeremy's other sons, Jonathon and Alex, and Jeremy knows in his heart that what John Ross has said is true.......this IS his son.  

 

The anger begins to rise up inside of Jeremy.  As he looks at the photo of the young man on his computer, he becomes angrier by the second until he is at the point of rage.  Unable to control his rage any longer, Jeremy stands, picks his computer up, and angrily smashes it to the floor!  He then shoves his chair to the floor and then sends all the contents of his desk flying across the room with one swift sweep of his hand.  He walks to his window and looks out over the city, his anger and rage still boiling inside of him.  

"NICK!"  Alex yells, then runs to his friend.  He and Jonathon kneel beside the boy. "Nick, dude!"  He touches Nick's face, but he doesn't respond.

 

"Man, he's out cold,"  Jonathon says.  "Has this ever happened before?"

 

"I.....I don't know,"  replies a frightened Alex.  

 

"Nick, come on, buddy, wake up,"  Jonathon says, touching the boys face.  As he does so, Nick's nose begins to bleed even worse.  "My God.  I'm gonna call 911," he says.

"Nick, bro, come on, please be okay,"  Alex begs while watching helplessly as his friend lays unconscious on the floor.  "Dude, you gotta be okay!"

 

"Alex, it's okay, buddy, he'll be alright,"  Jonathon says, dialing 911 with one hand while putting his other arm around his younger brother in an attempt to reassure him.  Then a 911 operator comes on the line.  "Yes, my name is Jonathon Lord, and I'm at the Del Oro Health Club in the Tuscany Valley.  We have a boy here, a teenager, age......"

 

"17,"  Alex says.

 

"He's 17, and he's collapsed.  His nose is bleeding really badly, and he looks like he's in bad shape.  We need an ambulance over here, NOW!"

  

 

                        IN LOVING MEMORY...

 

                   EARL HAMNER, JR.

       (July 10, 1923 - Mar. 24, 2016)

                Creator of FALCON CREST