EPISODE 14 - The Big Bang!

 

 

Another uncomfortable silence follows.  Angela looks around the table at her family once again.  "Look, I know you all blame me for this mess."

 

"Oh, and what makes you think we blame you for this mess?"  Lance asks sarcastically.  "Maybe because......it's YOUR fault."

 

"Lance, I never meant for any of this to happen,"  Angela says.  "I was only trying to help."

 

"You helped, all right,"  Lance says.  "Helped us to lose Falcon Crest to Jeremy Lord."

 

"Lance, I think you're selling Richard short, and you're being very unfair to Angela,"  says Emma.

 

"How am I selling Richard short?  Do you honestly think he's going to give up The Globe so that WE can hang on to Falcon Crest?"

 

"Well, at least Uncle Richard and Jeremy Lord being out of town at the same time bought us a few days extension on Lord's deadline, right?"  Eric asks.

 

"Yes, and for that we should be thankful,"  Pilar says.

 

"Thankful?"  Asks a bitter Lance.  "Thankful for what?  That we have to move out of here and give up Falcon Crest next week instead of today?"

 

"Look, with Richard and Jeremy both being in Dallas because of Jeremy's son being in jail, maybe that gives us a little time to come up with the money, or at least part of it,"  says Emma.

 

"Come on, Emma, I can't believe you can still be that naive,"  Lance says.  "How the hell are we gonna come up with THAT kind of money on such short notice.  Unless of course your daughter here knows some other gangster she can borrow the money from."

 

Angela looks at her cousin angrily, then gets up from the table and storms out of the room.

 

"Lance, that was uncalled for,"  Emma says.  "Angela was only trying to help save Falcon Crest, which is HER birthright, same as it is yours and mine.  You're being very unfair to her."

 

"Emma, I know Angela's your daughter and you love her, but, honestly, we wouldn't be in this mess right now if she hadn't gone to Jeremy Lord for that money,"  says Pilar.

 

"Well we would've lost Falcon Crest, anyway.  At least if we lose it to Jeremy, he's still family."

 

"Family?"  Asks an angry Lance, losing patience with his aunt.  "Since when is Jeremy Lord FAMILY?"

 

"He's my half-brother, and as such, maybe he can be convinced to at least give us some time to come up with the money to pay back his loan."

 

"Emma, that's not gonna happen,"  Pilar says.  "Jeremy Lord purposely orchestrated this whole thing so he could use Falcon Crest as a bargaining tool to get the newspaper away from Richard.  He also was probably behind the sabotage of that shipment of wine that we had to recall."

 

"Excuse me, I'm not hungry this morning,"  Gabby says, getting up from the table.   "I'm going to the hospital to see Nick."  The girl rushes from the room.

 

Pilar starts to get up and go after her.

 

"Honey, let her go,"  Lance tells his wife.  "She's upset.  She needs time.  We probably shouldn't be arguing and talking about losing Falcon Crest in front of Gabby.  She's already dealing with enough, with Nick having cancer and being so sick right now."

 

 

 

"And not to mention the fact that Jeremy Lord's son Alex is a good friend of Gabby's,"  Pilar says.  "That's got to be really hard on her, knowing that her friend's father is the one forcing her family from their home."

 

"Damn Jeremy Lord,"  Lance says.  "I'd like to wring his neck, and the necks of his entire family, including COUSIN Vicky.  Well, Pilar, from now on, I don't want our daughter hanging out with Jeremy and Vicky's kid.  School's out for summer, so they won't have to see each other.  I forbid it."

Later that morning at the Channing home, Angie Channing and Emma Ryland are sitting in the living room making plans for Emma's upcoming wedding to Angie's brother Kevin.  

 

"Thank you SO much for helping me with this, Angie,"  Emma Ryland says.

 

"It's no problem, after all, you're going to be my sister-in-law.  I still can't get over the fact that you and Elena knew each other in Dallas, and that you and my brother Kevin actually dated when you were both in London.  And now you're about to marry Kevin, and Elena's married to my brother Michael.  That's just crazy."

 

Emma smiles.  "Yeah, it's a small world, isn't it?  Oh, and don't forget, your father is now married to my Aunt Katherine."

 

"Oh, yeah, well, that one, I've been TRYING to forget,"  Angie says.  "No offense to your Aunt Katherine, it's just that, I don't even know her and my father's marriage was very sudden."

 

"Yeah, they sure didn't give anyone any warning about that, did they?"  Emma asks.

 

"Who didn't give any warning about what?"  Elena asks as she walks into the room.

 

"We were just talking about Angie's father and his sudden marriage to my Aunt Katherine,"  replies Emma.  

 

"Yes, that WAS kind of sudden,"  Elena says.  "And what are you two doing?"

 

"We are planning Emma's and Kevin's wedding,"  Angie replies.  "It's in a couple of days, so, we don't have much time."

 

"Oh, yes, the wedding,"  Elena says.

 

Speaking of which, Elena, I would like very much if you would agree to be one

of my brides maids,"  Emma says with a sly smile.

 

Elena looks at her with surprise.  "You want ME to be one of your bridesmaids?"  She asks in disbelief. 

 

"Yes."

 

"I think that would be great,"  says Angie.  "It would be a step in all of us becoming a united family for a change."

 

"I……I don't know."

 

"Elena, I have known you longer than I've known anyone else here, so it really would mean a lot to me,"  Emma says. 

 

Elena hesitates before answering.  "Alright, fine.  I'll do it."

 

Emma looks at her and smiles.  "Wonderful," she says.  "Thank you."

 

"I suppose Ann and Bobby are coming?"  Elena asks.

 

"Yes, they are.  And, I hope at least two or three of my Ewing relatives.  Christopher might even be here.  I really hope that won't be too awkward for you."

 

"No, it'll be fine,"  Elena says, giving Emma a stern look as Michael comes downstairs and walks into the living room. 

 

"Hey, what's goin' on here?"  He asks.

 

"We were just planning Emma's and Kevin's wedding,"  replies Angie.  "And your wife has gracious agreed to be a bridesmaid."

 

Michael gives Elena a curious look.  "You are gonna be one of Emma's bridesmaids?"

 

"Yeah,"  Elena replies.  "Hard to believe, isn't it?"

 

"I think it's great,"  Angie says.  "Maybe this wedding will FINALLY bring this family together the way that it's supposed to be."

 

"Maybe so,"  Michael says.  "Well, Elena, I'm headed to the office.  Wanna walk me out?"

 

"Of course,"  she says.  Elena follows her husband into the foyer.  

 

"Are you really serious?"  Michael asks.  "You're really gonna be her bridesmaid?"

 

"Yes.  Emma asked me, so what could I say?"

 

"But honey, you can't stand her."

 

"It's true that I've had my........issues.......with Emma.  But who's to say that she really doesn't love your brother?  And he sure seems to love her, like it or not.  Maybe she really isn't the same Emma Ryland I knew from Dallas.  I'm certainly not the same person I was two years ago."

 

Michael smiles.  "No, you're not.  You're BETTER."

 

"That is because I met and married YOU,"  Elena says, kissing him.  

 

Michael sighs after the kiss.

 

"Was it that bad?"  Elena asks.  "You usually like it when I kiss you."

 

"No, no, it's definitely not the kiss.  I just REALLY dread this wedding, and I can't wait for it to be over.  Chances are, half the damned Ewing family are gonna be here."

 

"Well, I seriously doubt that, considering how they feel about the Channings.  At least I hope not."

 

"Yeah, especially John Ross,"  Michael says, his tone arousing Elena's suspicion.  

 

"Michael, what's wrong?  I know you hate John Ross, and given his history with Emma, the chances of him coming are slim to none, but, something in the way you said that makes me think there's another reason you don't want him to come here for Emma's wedding to your brother."

 

Michael looks at his wife for a moment.  "John Ross and his wife have separated.  And, amazingly, it wasn't John Ross who cheated."

 

"What?"  Asks a shocked Elena.  "You're kidding.  Krystina cheated on John Ross?"

 

"Nope, I'm not kidding.  Our plan worked like a charm."

 

"And why do I get the feeling that there's a 'but' coming?"  Elena asks.

 

Michael smiles at her.  "There's not.  Everything is proceeding as planned.  John Ross's wife has moved out of Southfork, she slept with another man, and soon, you and I are going to make our move and you can get custody of your son again.  Now, I have to get to the office.  I have a paper to run while my father is in Dallas with his new bride.  I love you."

 

"I love you, too,"  Elena says.  Michael kisses her again, then turns and walks away.  As Elena watches her husband go, she is worried that somehow, Michael's scheme to breakup John Ross's marriage and gain custody of her son would somehow backfire.

Kelly smiles.  "Sure.....Joseph."

"Do I have any messages?"  

 

"John Crawford called and wants you to call him back as soon as possible," Kelly says.

 

Joseph smiles at her.  "Thanks," he says as Chase comes out of his office.  

 

 

 

 

The two brothers exchange looks, and then Chase smiles at his older brother. "Well, Joseph,"  Chase says.  "Finally decided to grace us with your presence today, looking all disheveled like you just rolled outta bed.  Glad we didn't have a meeting with any important clients today."

 

Joseph looks at the secretary, ignoring his brother's remarks.  "Kelly, get Mr. Crawford on the phone for me, would you?"

 

"Of course, Joseph."

 

"Hmmmm......Joseph, now is it?"  Chase asks.  "By the way, big brother, our business day starts around here at 9 a.m., not 10:20."

"I'm very well aware of what time this office opens, little bro,"  says an annoyed Joseph.  "And for your information, I had a meeting this morning with Brian Gulledge.  You know.....Gulledge Shipping?"

 

"Really?"  Chase asks.  "Mind if I ask what that meeting was about?"

 

"Not at all.  Brian Gulledge is retiring and he's looking to sell his small fleet.  I met with him to discuss a price."

 

"Joseph, we can't afford to buy any new ships right now,"  says Chase.

 

"We can afford the price Gulledge is asking."

 

"So you just went ahead with this without consulting Dad or me?"

 

"Joseph discussed it with me last night,"  says Cole, standing behind Chase in the doorway of his own office.  

Cole walks over to his sons.  "And I think it's a good idea so I gave him the go ahead."

 

Joseph looks at his younger brother and smiles triumphantly. 

 

"Well, I stand corrected, then,"  Chase says.  "Good job, Joseph.  So I guess congratulations are in order then."

 

"Joseph, I take it the meeting went well?"  Cole asks.

 

"Yes, it went VERY well.  In fact, Dad, I even got Brian to come down on his original asking price."

 

Cole smiles.  "I'm really proud of you, son,"  he says as Chase looks on angrily.  "Come on, let's go into my office and you can give me the details of the meeting."

 

"Sure, Dad,"  Joseph says. 

 

"Joseph, what about Mr. Crawford?"  Kelly asks.

 

"Oh, yeah.  Uhh, just hold off on that call to him.  Give me about ten minutes with my Dad, Kelly."

 

"Sure,"  the secretary says with a smile.

 

Chase watches with jealousy as Joseph and Cole walk into Cole's office and close the door.  "Kelly, was that John Crawford you mentioned to my brother?"

 

Kelly looks at him and hesitates before answering.  "Yes, it was."

 

"Joseph was supposed to talk to Crawford about renewing his contract with us, wasn't he?"

 

"Yes,"  replies a hesitant Kelly.

 

"Tell you what, Kelly, my brother's busy with my father right now, so why don't you get Mr. Crawford on the phone for me and I'll take care of it."

 

"Mr. Gioberti, Joseph is supposed to be handling that account,"  says Kelly.  "Your father gave it to him."

 

"I know.  But he's busy right now, and there's no point in keeping an important client like John Crawford waiting when I can just take care of it."

 

Kelly looks at him in silence.

 

"Kelly, just DO it,"  he says, annoyed with her.  "Get John Crawford on the phone and buzz me when you have him."  Chase walks into his office, closing the door.

 

Kelly shakes her head, then picks up the phone.  After a brief hesitation, she puts the phone down again.  She waits for almost a minute, then buzzes Chase's office. 

 

"Yes, Kelly, do you have Mr. Crawford on the line?"  Chase asks.

 

"Mr. Crawford is out of his office,"  Kelly tells him over the intercom.  "His secretary said he should be back after lunch."

 

Sitting in his office, Chase sighs in frustration.  "Damn," he says.  "Okay, thanks, Kelly," he says.

 

Meanwhile, sitting at her own desk, Kelly smiles with satisfaction, confident that she had just kept the ball in Joseph's court.  

Jeremy Lord walks out to the pool area of the Omni Hotel in Dallas, where he and his family are staying.  As he looks around, his cell phone rings.  Jeremy quickly takes the phone from his pocket and looks at the screen, then answers.   

 

"Yes, what do you want?"  He asks the person on the other end of the line.  "I've already told you not to call me at this number.  I am out of town at the moment dealing with a family crisis, now, I don't want to have to tell you again......do NOT call me again at this number,"  Jeremy says as Vicky comes out of the hotel and walks up to him, hearing part of what he said.  He turns around and sees his wife standing behind him.  He quickly ends the call and puts his phone away.

 

 

 

 

"Jeremy?"  Vicky says.  "Who was that?"

 

"Victoria,"  Jeremy says with a smile.  "I didn't know you were there."

 

"No, obviously not,"  Vicky says.  "So who were you talking to on the phone?"

 

"No one important, darling.  That was just business."

 

"Sounded important.  You told whoever it was not to call you on your cell phone anymore."

 

"Of course, I did,"  Jeremy says.  "After all, I do not like business calls to me made on my personal cell phone, and especially when I am out of town with my family."

 

"Oh, I see.  Aren't you going swimming with us?"  Vicky asks.  "Alex and Jonathon are already in the pool."

 

"Yes, I just need to change.  And to make a call."

 

"A call?"  

 

"Yes.  You go on out to the pool, and I will join you and the boys in a moment."

 

Vicky looks at her husband suspiciously, wondering what his earlier phone call she interrupted was really about.  "Sure," she finally says.  "Don't take too long."

 

Jeremy smiles and kisses her.  "I won't."

 

Vicky manages a half smile back at her husband, then walks out to the pool.  

 

After his wife is gone, Jeremy again takes his phone from his pocket and dials a number.  He waits impatiently, then someone finally answers.   "This is Jeremy Lord.  I have another little job I need for you to do.  Our......friend ........is becoming a bit of a problem.  A problem I need taken care of.  I don't care how.  Just do it."  

 

 

"Yeah, you got it," says Michael Channing's private detective friend Josh McQueen, sitting at a bar in the Tuscany Valley.  "I'll take care of it.  Don't worry, our friend will be taken care of by the time you get back from Dallas.  Bye."  Josh ends the call and puts his phone down.  He sighs deeply.  

 

Alex comes over to his parents.  "Mom, Dad?  Everything okay?" The boy asks.

 

"Yes, son, everything is fine."

 

"Have you been to the jail to see Austin?"  

 

"Yes, I have,"  Jeremy replies.  

 

"How's he doing?"  Alex asks.

 

"Your brother is fine.  And hopefully he'll be out of that jail soon, and the two of you can meet."

 

Alex looks at his mother, who has a somber expression of worry on her face.  "Mom, what's wrong?"  He asks.

 

"Nothing, honey, I'm fine."

 

"Alex, where is your brother?"  Jeremy asks.  "I thought he was with you."

 

"He's over there,"  Alex says, pointing to the far end of the pool.  Jeremy and Vicky look over and see Jonathon in the pool chatting with two beautiful girls, one a blonde and the other a brunette.  "He's been talking to them for about an hour or so."

 

Jeremy smiles.  "Well, Jonathon has a way with women, just like his father,"  he says, not realizing how his statement sounded to his wife, who gives him an angry look.  But Vicky's anger toward her husband goes deeper than his statement about having a way with women.  Secret phone calls, secret meetings.  Jeremy acting secretive, as if he's hiding something.  Vicky is beginning to wonder if her husband is seeing another woman.  

 

 

Nick and Gabby are walking together in the vineyards by the pond at Falcon Crest late that afternoon.  

 

"Sure is beautiful here,"  Nick says with a smile. "Y'know, I'd almost forgotten HOW beautiful it is."

 

"Nick, are you sure you're okay?"  Gabby asks.  

 

"Gabby, I'm fine.  Really."

 

"Those crutches can't be very comfortable.  Wouldn't you like to stop and rest for a while?"

 

"Yeah, I guess so,"  Nick replies.   "Let's take a seat here."  Nick tosses his crutches to the ground, and Gabby helps him sit down on the grass.  She takes a seat beside him.  Nick takes in a deep breath as he looks around.  "Man, it feels so good to be out here, and out of the house for a change."  He looks at Gabby.  "And it feels especially good to be here with you, Gabby."

 

"I feel the same, Nick,"  Gabby says.  "You look so much better than you did just a week ago.  So I just know the chemo is working and your cancer is getting better."

 

The smile fades from Nick's face and he lowers his head.

 

"I plan to make this a really great summer for you, Nick."

 

"And how do you plan to do that?"  Nick asks.

 

Gabby looks at him and smiles.  "By spending every minute I can with you."

 

Nick looks at her for a moment, then leans over and kisses her.  The two kiss for several seconds, then Nick pulls back and looks at her with a smile.

"You wanna know something, Gabrielle Cumson?"  Nick asks.

 

"What?"

 

"You are without a doubt the most beautiful girl in the world.  And I dunno what I did to get so lucky to have you in my life."

 

Gabby takes his hand.  "I'm the lucky one.  And you, Nicholas Fairchild, are the most handsome boy in the world."

 

"Handsome?  Me?"  Nick asks.  "Even with my shiny bald head?"

 

Gabby laughs.  "Yeah, even with your shiny bald head," she says.  "I love you, Nick.  Despite the cancer, you are the ONE bright spot in my life right now, with everything going on with my family and Falcon Crest."

 

"Do you really think your folks could lose Falcon Crest?"  Nick asks.

 

"Unless they can come up with a lot of money, or unless my Uncle Richard agrees to give up his newspaper to Jeremy Lord, then yes.  We're gonna lose Falcon Crest to him."

 

"I'm sorry, Gabby.  I know how much you love this place."

 

"I've never lived anywhere else.  I can't believe Alex's Dad is the one who's forcing my family off of Falcon Crest.  And I can't believe he's actually my Grandma Julia's half-brother.  God, Nick, my family is SO messed up."

 

He reaches over and gently strokes her brown hair.  "Not all of you are messed up.  Gabby, you're the most normal person I know."

 

"Thanks for saying that.  I'm so angry with Jeremy Lord, and I never wanna see Alex again."

 

"Gabby, come on,"  Nick says.  "This isn't Alex's fault.  He can't help what his father's doing."

 

"Maybe not, but I still never wanna see him again.  I don't want any reminders of Jeremy Lord and how he's stealing my family's home away from us.  Falcon Crest has been in my family for generations, Nick.  And I don't know how my Dad is going to handle losing it."

 

"Hey, why don't we change the subject?"  Nick asks.  "This topic of conversation is just getting you down."

 

"Okay, fine by me.  So what do you wanna talk about?"  

 

Nick looks at her and smiles.  "To be honest, I really don't wanna talk," he says, kissing her again.

"But why, Julia?"  Emma asks.   "Sweety, we are your family and we love you."

 

"I know that, Emma.  But I've lived away from here for so many years, it's just hard making the transition back from that controlled environment we had at the convent."

 

"I understand what you mean, especially now, with the trouble that Falcon Crest is in."

 

Julia sighs.  "I'm not sure it would be such a bad thing if this family did lose Falcon Crest."

 

"Julia, how can you say that?"  Emma asks.  "This has been our family's home since our great-grandfather built Falcon Crest.  Mother devoted her life to it."

 

"Yes, Emma, she did, and for WHAT?"  Julia asks with a slight smile.  "What did our Mother really gain from devoting her entire life to Falcon Crest?  To keeping Falcon Crest in the family.  You remember her devotion, Emma.  I, on the other hand, remember all the battles Mother had to fight to keep this place.  The wars, even within this family.  Mother fought battles against our cousin Chase, against Melissa, and even against us."

 

"Against us?"  Emma asks.  "Julia, I don't know what you mean."

 

"Yes, you do, Emma.  Just look at us.  My life was completely ruined by the battles over Falcon Crest.  Over the greed, and the obsession with protecting this place from outsiders.  And you?  Mother sheltered you for most of your life to the point that it turned you into a nervous and emotional wreck.  And in all of that, do you think Mother was HAPPY?  No, she wasn't, Emma.  Our Mother was one of the most unhappy, miserable people in the world, and now I see the same thing happening with my son.  Lance is obsessed with protecting Falcon Crest.  I see it happening with your daughter, too.  Angela was so bent on protecting this winery that she ended up making things worse by going to our new found half-brother for money, WITHOUT doing her research on Jeremy Lord to find out what kind of man he is and what his agenda is.  So no, Emma, I don't think it would be a bad thing at all if this family were to lose Falcon Crest, for the sake of our children and their children."

 

Angered by her sister's words, Emma walks over to her.  "Well you may feel that way, Julia, but I don't.  Yes, this family has been through hell, and it was mostly because of Falcon Crest.  But that's all the more reason why this winery and these vineyards need to stay in this family because if we lose it, all that pain, and all those battles Mother fought and Lance has fought would be for nothing.  Falcon Crest is your grandchildren's heritage."

 

"That's right, Emma, it is,"  Julia says.  "My life is pretty much over.  You're getting old too, Emma.  Lance, well, my son has already been corrupted by this place and its power, so maybe there's no hope for him.  But my grandchildren..........I don't want another generation to have to live through the kind of pain and the kind of fierce battles that the rest of us have seen."

 

"Well I for one, have faith in Richard, and I believe that he will come through for us and take care of Jeremy."  Without another word to her sister, Emma turns and walks out of the room, closing the door behind her.

 

"You have faith in dear brother, Richard?"  Julia says quietly after her sister has left.  "Then you're an even bigger fool than I thought, little sister."

"No, I'm not,"  Emma says.  "I just........I just can't believe our wedding is tomorrow."

 

"Yeah, neither can I.  It's a good thing we decided to postpone it from today, since it's gonna be at my father's house, and he isn't even in town."

 

"Yeah."

 

"I just hope he's back in town by tomorrow,"  Kevin says.

 

"Well, he told you he would be, didn't he?"  Emma asks.

 

"Yes, he did.  And he'll be here.  What about you?  Have you even spoken to your father about the wedding?"

 

"Hah!  WHICH father?  Harris, or Cliff?"  Emma asks sarcastically.  "You forget that I have TWO."

 

Kevin smiles.  "Well, have you spoken to either of them?"

 

"No.  Cliff is dealing with some stuff right now, and, besides, he and I didn't exactly part on very good terms.  And Harris.......no, I really don't want him here.  I still haven't forgiven him for lying to me my whole life, and maybe I never will."

 

"Y'know, Emma, holding onto this anger and unforgiveness........it's not healthy for you, or for the baby,"  says Kevin.

 

"I know, but what am I supposed to do?"  Emma asks.  "Just forget that Harris stole me from my mother when I was little, and then lied to me about being my father my entire life?"

 

"No, that's not what I'm saying.  Not at all.  Emma, all I'm saying is, it's obvious that you're holding onto a lot of pain and a lot of bitterness.  I think it's time you let it go, especially now, so we can begin our new life together free from all that.  Totally free from the past."

 

"Totally free from the past,"  Emma says, repeating Kevin's words.  "How nice that would be.  But I wonder if it's even possible."

 

"It IS, Emma.  If we want it.  Hey, I'm gonna go hop in the shower.  Wanna join me?"

 

"Thanks, but, I'm kinda hungry.  I think I'll order up some breakfast."

 

"Okay,"  Kevin says, kissing her.  "By the way, what time is your Mom supposed to arrive?"

 

"I'm not sure.  I need to call and find out what time they're gonna be here."

 

"You don't seem very happy about her coming."

 

Emma sighs.  "I'm looking forward to seeing my mother, but, it's the Ewings I'm worried about.  I just don't want any trouble or drama at our wedding.  I want the Ewings and the Channings to be able to co-exist in peace."

 

"Well I hate to break it to your, sweetheart, but.......I don't think that's ever gonna happen.  But, anyone starting any drama at our wedding is gonna get tossed out on their ass, whether Ewing OR Channing."

 

Emma smiles.  

 

"Now, that's the smile I like to see on my girl,"  Kevin says.  He kisses her.  "Sure you don't wanna join me for that shower?"

 

"Thanks, but, I'm REALLY hungry."

 

"Okay.  Order me some waffles and bacon, okay?"

 

"I will."

 

"I'll be out in a few, and then after breakfast, we'll head over to my Dad's house,"  Kevin says.  He kisses her again, then walks into the bathroom, closing the door.  After he's gone, Emma smiles again, realizing that she truly does love Kevin, and even though her love for him may not be as deep as her love for Lucas had been, maybe in time it would grow to be as deep or even deeper.

"I just got tired, Gabby,"  Eric replies. "Tired of always being angry at everyone, and everything.  Tired of staying in trouble.  Tired of waking up in jail all the time.  And tired of being this family's blacksheep.  I think what really got me to thinking was back when cousin Angela came here and she was bound and determined to take Falcon Crest away from Mom and Dad.  Gabby, this is something no one else knows, so don't say anything to Mom and Dad, but, Angela asked me to help her."

 

"To help her......what?"  Gabby asks.

 

"To help her force Mom and Dad out of Falcon Crest.  And for a while, I considered it.  Back then, I honestly felt we'd all be better off without this place and the stress that came with it.  But then, I dunno, something in me changed.  I found myself doing things that even made ME ashamed."  Eric stops his horse and climbs down from the animal.  He looks out over the vineyards.

 

"What things?"  Gabby asks, also climbing down from her horse.

 

"That's not important.  But the point is, I finally saw how much Falcon Crest means to Dad.  But, I think what really changed the way I look at everything is........."  Eric pauses a moment and looks at his sister.  "Nick.  Y'know, I use to not even like that kid.  But then, when I heard he had cancer.......it made me realize how fragile life really is. How important FAMILY is.  I spent so much of my life hating this family and rebelling against them, that I forgot how important they are to me.  I mean, how many times since I was 15 have Mom and Dad bailed my ass out of jail?  How many times has Dad used his connections to pull strings to keep me out of prison?  Gabby, I think my main problem was that I put Mom and Dad on a pedestal when I was a kid.  Then, when I found out that they weren't perfect, that they were human and prone to screw up like everyone else, well, that made me angry.  Then, I found out something about Mom and Dad that........well, it's not something you need to know about, but, it disappointed and hurt me, so I lashed out at them."

Eric looks at her.  "No, I'm not.  Not at the family, anyway.  I realize that Mom and Dad aren't perfect.  I've made my share of mistakes, and so have they.  So no, I'm not angry at them anymore.  Now, I'm angry at the people who are trying to take Falcon Crest away from us.  Our new 'uncle' Jeremy Lord."

 

Gabby sighs deeply.  "I hate that name.  And I hate Alex for being his son."

 

"Hey, now, come on.  Alex Lord is your friend."

 

"WAS my friend.  I could never be friends with the son of the man who's trying to take our home away from us."

 

"Alex is just a kid, Gabby.  A kid your age.  He's got no control over what his Dad does, anymore than we can help anything that our parents have done."

 

"That's pretty much the same thing Nick said.  But I still don't know if I can ever be friends with Alex again.  I would always be reminded of what his dad did to us."

 

"We'd better get back,"  Eric says, climbing back onto his horse.  Gabby does the same.  Eric pauses and looks out over the beautiful vineyards, with a sweeping view of the Valley beyond.  "Would you just look at that?"  He asks.

 

"Yeah,"  says Gabby.  "So beautiful."

 

"I never realized just HOW beautiful Falcon Crest is until now.  I guess what they say is true.  You never really appreciate what you have until you lose it."

Richard hurries into the bedroom of his and Katherine's suite at the Omni Hotel in Dallas that afternoon to answer the ringing telephone.  He quickly picks the phone up and answers. "Yes, hello," he says.  

 

"Mr. Channing, this is Jim Tatum, your wife's attorney."

 

"Oh, Jim, hello, and how are you on this fine Saturday afternoon?"

 

"I'm doing wonderfully.  Is Katherine around?  I've been trying to reach her on her cell phone.  It's important that i speak with her as soon as possible."

 

"As a matter of fact, she's taking a bubble bath to relax after that shindig the Ewings put on last night.  Hold on,"  Richard says.  He picks up the phone and stretches the cord as far as it will reach into the adjoining bathroom.  "Darling," he says to his new wife.

 

"Richard, what is it?"  Katherine asks, soaking in a bubble bath.

 

"Lawyer Tatum is on the phone.  Says it's important."

 

"Oh, it must be about Austin's case,"  Katherine says.  She quickly gets out of the tub, grabs a towel and dries herself a little, wraps the towel around herself, then walks over and takes the phone from Richard as he smiles, admiring his new wife's still beautiful body.  "Jim?"  Katherine says to her attorney on the phone.  "What is it?  What's so urgent?"  Katherine listens for a moment as Jim tells her what he wanted to speak with her about.  A look of surprise comes over Katherine's face as she listens on the phone.  "Oh my......Jim, are you sure?  Are you ABSOLUTELY certain of this?"  After a few seconds, Katherine smiles.  "Jim, that is the most wonderful news you could've possibly given me.  Thank you.  Yes, we'll be over just as fast as we can get there.  Bye."  Katherine gives the phone back to Richard, who hangs it up.

 

"Well, now, from the look on your face and the tone of that conversation, that must've been great news.  About Austin?"

 

"Yes,"  replies Katherine.  "Richard, my son is being released.  The charges against him have been dropped."

 

"Well, that IS wonderful news.  How'd that happen?"

 

"I don't know, Jim didn't say.  He'll explain when we get to the police station.  Richard, I have to hurry and get dressed so we can go get my son."

 

Richard smiles with joy as he watches his wife in her happiness.

 

 

 

"So what happened?"  Austin asks.  "They didn't tell me anything, just that they're letting me go."

 

"The police know the identity of the real killer, Austin,"  Jim tells his young client.  

"So who was it?"  Austin asks.

 

"I'd like to know the answer to that myself, Lt.,"  Katherine says. "Who murdered those two people and framed my son for the crime?"

 

Lt. Walden sighs.  "I may as well tell you.  You're gonna find out as soon as this hits the papers anyway.  The person responsible for the murders of Jan Pierce and Jesse Matthews, was the very detective working on the case.  Detective Scott Miller."

 

"What?"  Austin asks.  "That detective with the long hair?"

 

"Yeah."

 

"Good Lord,"  says Richard.  "Are you people so desperate for cops around here that you hire psychopaths?"

 

"No one in the department had any idea that Detective Miller was unbalanced."

 

"Does that mean that he was the one terrorizing Afton Cooper, as well?"  Jim Tatum asks.

"I'm afraid so,"  replies Steve.

 

"Well, this is just fantastic!"  Says an angry Katherine.  "You can't even trust the police, who are supposed to serve and protect.  Instead, you've got one who is killing people and framing an innocent person for his crimes!"

 

"Is he in custody?"  Austin asks.

 

"No.  Unfortunately, Miller went on the run, and he took Afton Cooper and her daughter Pamela Barnes McKay with him."

 

"My God, that madman has Afton and my niece?"  Katherine asks.

 

"Yes,"  Lt. Walden replies.  "We have a nationwide all points bulletin out on him.  We WILL find him."

 

"Before he manages to kill or hurt someone else, I hope,"  Richard says.  

 

"Austin, I'm very sorry for everything you went through.  For what it's worth, it doesn't appear that Miller targeted you for this.  You just happened to be in the wrong place at the wrong time when Jan Pierce was murdered, and then, Miller decided he'd make you the scapegoat when he killed Jesse Matthews as well."

 

Austin sighs.  "Wrong place, wrong time," he says sadly.  "Just my luck."

 

"Come on, sweetheart, let's get out of here,"  Katherine says.

 

"Yes, we need to head back to San Francisco this evening,"  says Richard.  "My son Kevin and your niece Emma are getting married tomorrow afternoon, and since the wedding is going to be at my house, I probably should be

there."

 

"Yes,"  Katherine says.  "Austin, I hope that you'll come with us to California."

 

"Maybe.  I need to get out of Dallas for a few days."

 

"Austin, again, on behalf of my department, I'm very sorry for everything you've been put through,"  Lt. Walden says.

 

"Not as sorry as you're going to be,"  says an angry Katherine.  "I intend to initiate a lawsuit against your department for wrongful arrest and anything else I can come up with!  Let's go."  Katherine brushes past the Lt. and walks out of the room, followed by Austin, Richard, and Jim.

 

"It's simple,"  Kevin says.  "Your brother's jealous of you."

 

"Jealous?  Yeah, that's what I thought, too, but Chase has nothing to be jealous of me for."

 

"Doesn't he?"  Kevin asks, breathing hard as he continues lifting.  "Chase went to work for Cole right out of college, didn't he?"

 

"Yeah, he did.  And he never fails to rub that fancy business degree he's got in my face.  He seems to take great pleasure in rubbing in the fact that he has a business degree, and I don't."

 

"Like I said, man, it's simple,"  Kevin says.  "Chase went to work with your father right out of college, putting that degree he earned to work, while you left the family business and went out and basically had fun traveling around and doing whatever you wanted to do for the last few years.  Then, all of a sudden, you come back into the business and Cole is fawning all over you, pleased and proud to have both his sons working by his side.  But for Chase, he probably feels pushed aside.  Like you're slowly taking his place in the business, and with Cole."

 

"But that's not what I'm doing,"  Joseph says.

 

"Maybe not, but to Chase, that's how it looks.  Plus, he probably feels uprooted.  You move out here and settle in your mother's old family home, and Cole decides to move himself AND the company out here to San Francisco, which basically forces Chase to stay here as well, if he wants to continue working at Gioberti & Sons."

 

"Well, none of that's my fault.  I never asked Dad to move out here from Florida, and I never asked him to move his business here."

 

"No, but try looking at it from Chase's point of view."

 

Joseph smiles.  "You're only 29.  How'd you get to be so wise?"

 

Kevin puts the weights back into their slots, and sits up on the bench as he smiles.  "You've never been a kid brother.  I've had LOTS of practice being one, so I can look at it from Chase's side."

 

 Angela walks in at that moment.  She pauses at the door when she sees her two cousins, then walks over and begins working out on the lat pulldown machine.  

 

"Angela,"  Kevin says.  "What's up?"

 

"Hi, Kevin.  Joseph."

 

"Hey,"  Joseph says.  "Everything okay?"

"Sure.  Why wouldn't it be?"  Angela asks sarcastically.  "How about you guys?  Kevin, I thought you'd be spending your every waking moment with your bride to be."

 

"Emma's over at Dad's house,"  Kevin says.  "I have to shower and pick her up in about a half an hour so we can go and meet her family at the airport.  They're coming in from Dallas for the wedding.  Emma and Elena and Angie are doing some more wedding planning, so I came here to give the girls some time alone."

 

"Underfoot, huh?"  Angela asks.  "I know the feeling."

 

Kevin and Joseph exchange looks.  Kevin stands to his feet and walks over to Angela.  "What's going on, cousin?"

 

"Mean you haven't heard about everything that's going on over at Falcon Crest, and that it's ALL my fault?"

 

Kevin and Joseph again exchange looks.  "No, I haven't,"  replies Kevin.  "So tell me."

 

Angela stops her workout and looks at the two young men.  "Well, I was a fool.  Or rather I was played for a fool, and because of my stupidity, our family is about to lose Falcon Crest.  That is, Kevin, unless your father comes through for us."

 

"Angela, back up just a little bit,"  Kevin says.  "I've been really busy and preoccupied lately with Emma and planning our wedding, so I've been pretty much out of the loop lately when it comes to what's going on in the family.  So I have no idea what you're talking about."

 

"Well, that's good, then,"  Angela says.  "At least news of my stupid mistake hasn't traveled all over the Valley yet."

 

"What happened?"  Joseph asks.

 

Angela looks at Kevin, and an awkward silence follows.

 

"Come on, you can tell us,"  Joseph says.  "We ARE all family here."

 

"Well, Falcon Crest was in serious financial trouble,"  Angela says.  "And by serious, I mean VERY serious.  We were in debt, and about to go under, so we needed a lot of money to get us out of that debt.  So, I made a really stupid decision to trust Jonathon Lord."

 

"Jonathon?"  Joseph asks.  

 

"What'd you do, borrow the money from him?"  Kevin asks.

 

"From his Dad,"  replies Angela.  "But it was Jonathon who went to his father on my behalf.  BIG mistake.  Jeremy Lord let me borrow the money, but, what he failed to tell me, and what I failed to read in the fine print of the contract he had me sign was that he could call in the loan at any time, for any reason, and demand the full amount be repaid, or he takes over Falcon Crest."

 

"And let me guess........Lord called in the loan,"  Kevin says.

 

"Yeah, he did.  So, Kevin, you haven't talked to your father at ALL in the last couple weeks?"

 

"No.  He got married, I got engaged, Dad went to Dallas with his new wife, something to do with her son, I dunno, so, no, I haven't really exchanged more than hello and goodbye with my Dad in the last few weeks."

 

Angela sighs.  "Well, hold onto your hat.  It turns out that Jeremy Lord had an agenda all along.  He wanted to use Falcon Crest as a bargaining tool against Uncle Richard."

 

"Against my Dad?"  Kevin asks.

 

"Yes.  Your father's newspaper in exchange for Falcon Crest.  At least most of Falcon Crest.  Lord planned to keep the portion that use to belong to your sister Vicky's family, the Giobertis."

 

"I know that when Lord first came to town he tried to buy the newspaper from my Dad, and Dad refused to sell to him,"  Kevin says.

 

"Yes, but there's a reason he wanted it,"  Angela says.  "It turns out that Jeremy Lord is a relative."

 

"A relative?"  Joseph asks.

 

"That's right.  He is the illegitimate son of my grandfather, Douglas Channing.  Which makes him the half-brother of my Mom, Aunt Julia, and Uncle Richard.  And that's why he wants that damned newspaper so badly."

 

A stunned Kevin and Joseph exchange looks of bewilderment.

"Hello, Bobby,"  Emma says.

 

"Emma."

 

"You remember Kevin, don't you?"  Emma asks.

 

"Yes, I do,"  Bobby says.  "Hello, Kevin."

 

"Mr. Ewing,"  the young man says.  "It's nice seeing you both.  Emma and I are very happy you could make it to the wedding."

 

At that moment, John Ross and Alex walk over.  A look of shock comes over Emma's face upon seeing them.  "John Ross?"

 

"Hello, Emma.  I hear that congratulations are in order."

 

"Yes, thank you, and I'm very surprised to see you.  I had no idea you'd be coming,"  Emma says, looking at Bobby and Ann.

 

"Don't worry, John Ross has promised to behave himself,"  Ann says.

 

"I see you brought the baby with you,"  Kevin says, seeing John Ross's son with his nurse.  "I know that Elena will appreciate seeing her son."

 

"Yeah, I'm sure she will,"  John Ross says.

 

"Well, why don't we get to the hotel and get settled?"  Ann asks.  "Then you can tell me what you've gotten done on your weddin' so far, and what I can do to help."

 

"Great idea,"  Emma says.  "Let's go."

 

Ann takes Emma by the arm as the two women head toward one of the awaiting cars.  Bobby and Alex follow, while John Ross and Kevin linger behind.  As John Ross starts to follow the others, Kevin reaches out and places his hand on John Ross's chest.

"Look, man,"  Kevin says.  "Given your history with Emma and with my family, I really have no idea why you're here for my wedding, but, consider this a warning.......don't start anything.  Whatever the hell is going on between you, my brother, and Elena, or even you and my father has NOTHING to do with me or with Emma.  But, if you do anything to wreck my wedding or cause any kind of drama there, then you and I ARE gonna have a problem.  Understood?"

 

John Ross looks at him and smiles.  "I got no interest in wreckin' your little weddin' to Emma.  Wouldn't even dream of it.  I just came here to see an old friend get married.  And, while I'm here, Elena can have a nice little visit with our son."

 

"Alright, good,"  Kevin says.  "Gonna hold ya to that."  Kevin turns and follows after the others as John Ross watches him.

 

"Nope,"  John Ross says quietly to himself after Kevin has walked away from him.  "I wouldn't dream of wreckin' your weddin'.  But your brother......I DO intend to wreck his life."

Meanwhile, Bobby's son Christopher takes his cell phone from his pocket.  He dials a number and waits for an answer as his girlfriend Courtney gets into the car.  After several rings, Christopher puts his phone away, then gets into the car with Courtney.

 

"Christopher, what's wrong?"  Courtney asks him.

 

"I tried calling Southfork to let Lucas know we arrived safely, and there was no answer,"  Christopher replies.  "He doesn't answer his cell phone, either."

 

"Well, didn't Ann say on the plane that Lucy was gonna take Michael to the water park today?"  

 

"Yeah, she did."

 

"Then that explains it,"  says Courtney.  "If Lucy has Michael, then Lucas and Heather have Southfork all to themselves today, so, they're probably NOT gonna want to answer any phones."

 

Christopher looks at her and smiles.  "You're probably right.  I'll just try again later," he says as he starts the engine in the rental car.

"Yes, absolutely the best news,"  Jeremy says with a smile.  "Austin has been released from jail."

 

"Really?"  Jonathon asks.  "The charges against him were dropped?"

 

"Yes.  The police have discovered the identity of the real killer, so Austin has been completely cleared of all charges against him."

 

"Dad, that's great,"  Alex says.

 

 

 

"So does this mean that I'm finally going to get to meet my other little brother?"  Jonathon asks.

 

"Yes,"  says Jeremy.  "Yes, Jonathon, you and Alex will be meeting your brother this evening.  And now that this nightmare is finally over, this family can return to our lives in California."

 

Vicky and Jonathon exchange looks, neither of them appearing very happy at Jeremy's news.  

 

"Kevin seems very nice,"  Ann says.

 

"He is.  I know that once you get to know him, you'll love him.  Just like I do."

 

Ann looks at her daughter for a moment.  "Have you told Kevin about the baby?  That he might be infected with Neurofibromatosis?"

 

"No, I haven't."

 

"And you haven't had the amniocentesis yet?"  Ann asks.

 

"No, not yet."

 

"Emma, why not?  The sooner you find out whether or not the baby could have the disease, the better."

 

"Better for WHAT?"  Emma asks. "There is nothing they can do even if the baby does have this disease, right?  So why would I wanna find out if my baby could have a gene that's gonna cause him or her to have a disease that could be fatal before the baby's even a year old?  And why would I wanna do that to Kevin?"

 

"Because he deserves to know the truth,"  says Ann.  "And Emma......so do you.  There have been so many advances in medicine in recent years, surely there must be somethin' that can be done.  Besides, even if that child is a carrier of the gene for Neurofibromatosis, that duttin' mean that the baby will come down with the disease.  You're a carrier of the gene, but you don't have the disease."

 

"Not YET,"  Emma says.  "But it could happen.  But, look, I don't wanna talk about this anymore.  We're supposed

to be talking about and getting ready for my wedding tomorrow."

 

Ann nods and smiles.  "You're right, and I'm sorry."

 

"It's okay."

"Well, now then, what can I help you with by way of plannin'?"

 

"Well, there is something that you can do for me."

 

"Just name it,"  Ann says.

 

"Could you talk to Bobby about giving me away?"  Emma asks.

 

Ann looks at her, surprised.  "You want Bobby to give you away?"

 

"Yeah.  I mean, Cliff isn't here, and I didn't even bother to invite Harris, so, I don't have anyone else like a father figure to walk me down the isle."

 

Ann smiles.  "Well, I'm sure that Bobby would be very pleased and proud, but I think you should be the one to ask him."

 

"What am I gonna be pleased and proud about?"  Bobby asks, walking into the room.  "And what should Emma be asking me?"

 

Ann and Emma exchange looks, then Emma walks over to him.  "I was just wondering if perhaps you would........ walk me down the isle and give me away tomorrow?"

 

"You want ME to give you away at your wedding to Kevin Channing? Bobby asks.

 

"Yes, I do."

"Bobby, Emma really duttin' have anyone else to act as her father right now,"  says Ann.

 

"Bobby, I know how you feel about Kevin's family,"  Emma says.  "But Kevin is different.  You just don't know him yet.  Plus, I know you've been in the situation that Kevin and I are in now, when you married Christopher's mother Pam and her family hated you, just because your last name happened to be Ewing.  I'm sure you must remember how that felt."

 

"Yes, I do."

 

"Then don't judge Kevin because his last name is Channing."

 

Bobby looks at Emma and then at Ann.  "This daughter of yours really knows how to give a convincing argument. Alright, Emma, I'll do it.  I would be honored to walk you down the isle tomorrow."

 

Emma and Ann both smile.  "Thank you,"  Emma says, kissing her stepfather on the cheek as a proud Ann looks on.

 

 

 

Jonathon walks over to Austin and looks at him.  "So, you're my little brother."

 

"Yeah, I guess I am."

 

"Y'know, I've been thinking about, and even rehearsing what I was gonna say to you when we finally did meet, and now, I don't have any idea what to say."

 

 

 

 

"Well, then I guess we're even, because, I don'y have a clue what to say to you, either,"  Austin says.

 

"Well, ummm, I guess what I'd like to say is.........it's really nice to meet you,"  Jonathon says, extending his hand to Austin.  

 

"Yeah, same here, man,"  Austin says, shaking his brother's hand.

Alex walks over to him.  "Hey, Austin, I'm Alex.  I've really been looking forward to meeting you, dude."

 

"Thanks,"  Austin says, shaking hands with his younger brother.  "This is all really new to me.  I've never had brothers before, so, I don't really know what to say."

 

"Well, I wouldn't worry about that,"  Jeremy says, placing his hand on his middle son's shoulder.  "Everything will fall into place in time.  And as for me, I am truly a happy man because at long last, I have all three of my sons here in the same room."

 

"So.......welcome to the family, Austin,"  Alex says with a smile.

 

"Thanks, man."

 

"Well now,"  says Jeremy.  "Austin, I have made a reservation at one of Dallas's finest restaurants.  We're all going out to dinner, as a family, and get to know one another.  And then, son, I would like very much if you would consider returning to California with us tomorrow.  Even if it's only for a visit."

 

Austin looks at his father and smiles as he nods.  Meanwhile, Vicky looks on from across the room, unsure of how to feel about her husband's new found young adult son, and how this new addition to their family will affect their lives, and more importantly, how Austin will affect her's and Jeremy's own 17-year-old son. 

Michael is sitting on the sofa in his and Elena's bedroom that evening, doing some research on his laptop, when Elena comes in from the bathroom.  

 

"You must be reading something very interesting,"  she says. "You've had your face buried in that laptop for hours."

 

"Yeah, I was just doing a little marketing research here,"  he says as the phone rings.  He reaches over and picks in the phone up and answers.  "Michael Channing," he says to the person on the other end of the line.  "What?  What the hell is he doing here?  Yeah, okay, no problem.  Tell Mr. Ewing he can come on up."  Michael puts the phone down and looks at Elena.  "John Ross is here," he says.

 

"John Ross?"  Asks a surprised Elena.  "What could he possibly want?"

 

I guess we'll find out in a couple minutes,"  Michael says.  "Come on, let's get dressed and find out what he's doing here."

 

Elena's heart sinks as she begins to worry that John Ross's unexpected visit has something to do with their son.  

door and finds John Ross Ewing standing on the front porch.

 

"John Ross?  What on earth are you doing here?"  Angie asks.

 

"Well, if it itn't the lovely Miss Channing,"  John Ross says.  "I came to speak to Elena."

 

"Oh, well, please, come in,"  Angie says, stepping aside and motioning him into the house.  

 

"Thank ya, darlin',"  John Ross says, walking in.  He looks around.  "Place hadn't changed at all since the last time I was here."

 

"Can I get you anything?"  Angie asks.  "A drink, maybe?"

 

"John Ross doesn't need a drink, Angie,"  Michael says as he and Elena descend the stairs into the foyer.  "He won't be staying that long."

 

"John Ross, what are you doing here?"  Elena asks.  "Is something wrong with the baby?"

 

"Nope.  Baby's just fine.  I just came to town for a weddin'."

 

"A wedding?"  Michael asks.  "You can't possibly mean my brother's wedding to Emma Ryland."

 

"Oh, I can and I do,"  John Ross says.  He turns to Angie.  "Darlin', would you mind if I had a private word with your brother and his........wife?"

 

"Sure,"  Angie says.  "And, if you guys get into a fight, just make sure you don't get any blood on the rugs.  I just had them cleaned."  Smiling, Angie heads back upstairs.  

 

"That little sister of yours.......she's a real hot little number, Channing,"  John Ross says.

 

 

 

 

"Hey, you shut up about my sister, Ewing,"  says an angry Michael.  "Now what the hell do you want here?"

"You wanna know what why I'm here?"  John Ross asks.  "Then I'll tell you why I'm here.  I know all about your little scheme."

 

"And what little scheme would that be?"  Asks Michael.

 

"The scheme you hatched with Brad Stone to set me up and destroy my marriage to Krystina."

 

"John Ross, we don't know what you're talking about,"  Elena says.

 

"You can cut the crap, Elena.  You know damned well what I'm talkin' about.  Stone told me everything, Channing. How the two of you schemed to set me up with that little waitress to make it look like I was havin' an affair with her, and then my wife was supposed to find out.  But it didn't work.  I did NOT cheat on my wife."

 

Michael smiles.  "Maybe you didn't.  But from what I understand, your wife DID cheat on you, and now you and Krystina are separated.  Which, I'm sure in the eyes of the court, gives Elena grounds to sue to regain custody of her son."

 

"That will never happen,"  John Ross says.  "And I can promise you that."

 

"There's nothing you can do to stop it,"  Michael says.  "From all appearances, John Ross, your marriage is over.  Done.  FINISHED.  Your wife cheated on you with a man you despise.  You're a single father now, where as my wife is happily married and living in a stable home, which is a much better environment for a little boy to grow up in.  And I'm sure any judge in the country would agree to that."

 

John Ross moves closer to him.  "Channing, I'm gonna make this as clear as I can, so that even your feeble little minds can understand......it's never gonna happen.  Because, Elena, that if you EVER try to take my son away from me, I can promise you that you will NEVER see him again."

 

"I have visitation rights, John Ross,"  Elena says.  "There's no way that you can stop me from seeing my son."

 

"Maybe not legally.  But I WILL stop you from seein' him.  I have almost unlimited resources.  If I have to, I'll send my son away to someplace safe, far away from you."

 

"You son of a bitch, if you did that, it'd be kidnapping and you'd end up in jail,"  Michael says.

 

"And if that happened, then you really would have no chance of ever finding that child again.  Channing, when you messed with me, that was one thing.  But now, you've messed with my wife and my marriage, and there's no way in hell that I'm gonna put up with that.  You bit off way more'n you can chew, boy, and I'm here to tell you..... to tell BOTH of you right now.......that this little war between us is far from over.  I'm gonna get you back, Channing.  When you least expect it, I'm gonna take you down and leave you with nothin', and this tramp you married........she'll be forced to go back to the streets where she belongs and sell that skinny little body just for a scrap of bread."

 

"Get out!"  Michael says, shoving John Ross back against the door.  "You GET THE HELL OUT OF THIS HOUSE!!!"

 

John Ross laughs.  "What's the matter, Mikey?  Scared?  You damned well better be.  Especially now.  You just put your hands on me.  That's an assault charge there, Mikey."

 

"If you don't get out of this house and out of my sight, I'll do more than just put my hands on you!"

 

"See the kind of violent man you married, Elena?  Just like that mobster daddy of his."  John Ross walks to the front door and opens it.  As he starts to leave, he turns back to them.  "Before I'm done, I'll see you and your daddy in prison, Channing, and you, Elena, you'll be right back on the street just like the trash you are."

 

"GET OUT!!!!!!!!!!!!"  Elena screams.  

 

John Ross leaves without another word, and Michael angrily slams the door behind him.  

 

Elena turns to her husband.  "I told you," she says.  "Michael, I TOLD you not to go through with this crazy scheme or yours to cause trouble between John Ross and Krystina because, look what happened.  You just made things worse, and now, I may lose my son for good!"  She starts up the stairs.

 

"That is NOT gonna happen!"  Michael says, grabbing her by the arm.  

 

"Oh?  You can promise me that?  Like you PROMISED that your plan wasn't gonna backfire.  Obviously you trusted the wrong person to ally yourself with."  Elena pulls out of her husband's grasp and storms up the stairs, leaving Michael angry and frustrated.

Courtney Wapner wakes up the next morning in bed in the suite at the Omni Hotel she is sharing with Christopher Ewing.  She has been unable to sleep, thinking about her mother's words telling her that Christopher needs and deserves to know the secret from her past Courtney has been keeping from him.  Courtney watches him sleep for a moment, but then Christopher begins to wake up.  Opening his eyes, he looks at her.  "Good morning," he says with a smile.

"Morning,"  Courtney says.

 

"You okay?"

 

"I'm fine.  I just didn't sleep very well last night."

 

"Yeah, I noticed.  I could feel you tossing and turning, and I think you even got out of bed at one time,"  Christopher says.

 

"I'm sorry, I didn't mean to keep you awake, too.  That's why I got up, because I didn't wanna wake you."

"No, no, it's fine,"  says Christopher, taking her by the hand.  "I'm just worried about you, is all."

 

"Just........strange bed,"  Courtney says.  "I always have trouble sleeping in a strange bed."

 

"You've never had any trouble sleeping when you've spent the night at Southfork.  Courtney, what's going on?  For the last couple days I could tell something's bothering you.  And it seems to be getting worse.  Whatever it is, I'd like to help."

 

"You don't know how much that means to me."

 

"Good, because I meant every word,"  Christopher says, propping himself up on his elbow as he looks at her.  "Courtney, I've fallen in love with you, and I want this relationship to work.  But I get this.........strange feeling....... that there's something you're holding back.  If it's that you don't trust me, then........"

 

"No, it's not that at all,"  Courtney says.  "Christopher, I trust you with my life."

 

"Then why can't you confide in me?"

 

"Because......I'm afraid to,"  Courtney replies, beginning to cry.

 

"Afraid to?  Why?  Courtney, I've shared everything with you, my good parts as well as my bad.  There is NOTHING you could ever tell me that would make me think less of you."

 

"Maybe this would,"  Courtney says in tears.

 

"It wouldn't."

 

"Christopher, please,"  she says, sitting up in bed.  

 

Christopher looks at her for a moment in silence.  "I'm gonna go take a shower," he says, then gets out of bed.  He 

pulls on his boxers and then looks at her again.  "Courtney, I'm gonna say this again.  I love you, and there is NOTHING you could tell me that would make me judge you.  Look, I want this relationship to work.  But the only way that it's going to work is if we're totally honest with one another.  Now, we don't have to know every little detail of each others' lives.  I don't need to know if you got a parking ticket when you were in high school or if you failed your drivers' test the first time.  But if there's anything major that you need to tell me that could potentially cause problems later, then you need to trust me enough to tell me.  And I promise you, it would NOT make a difference.  But what WOULD make a difference is if you're keeping something important from me.  I've been down that road before, with Elena, with Pamela, even with Charlie.  And I don't really wanna go down it again."  Without saying another word, Christopher walks into the bathroom and closes the door.  After he's gone, Courtney breaks down in tears.

 

"I'm just happy I was able to help,"  Kelly says.  "Coffee should be ready." 

 

"Okay,"  Joseph says, kissing her.  Kelly stands and watches Joseph as he gets out of bed and slips on his boxer briefs, while she slips on a sleeveless sun dress.  Together, the two leave the bedroom and a few seconds later walk into Kelly's kitchen.   "Something smells good,"  Joseph says, taking a seat at the table.

 

"Waffles,"  Kelly says, taking the two waffles from the toaster.  

 

"Wonderful."

 

Kelly places four waffles on a plate on the table, gives Joseph a plate, and sets a place for herself.  "Joseph, why do you think your brother hates the fact that you're involved in your family's business so much?"  She asks, pouring two cups of coffee, then taking a seat at the table.

"I think he's jealous,"  Joseph replies.

 

"Jealous?"

 

"Yeah, I think Chase feels threatened by me being there.  He probably thinks I'm trying to usurp his place at Gioberti & Sons, and with our Dad, which I am NOT trying to do at all.  I don't wanna push my brother out of the company and take his place there.  I just wanna earn my own place, but Chase is so stubborn he can't see that.  He's stubborn, and he's ambitious."

 

"Well, I have nothing against ambition, but, family should be more important."

 

"I agree, which is one of the reasons I think you and I get along so well,"  says Joseph.  "Oh, speaking of family, do you have anything planned for the rest of the day?  Specifically late this afternoon?"

 

"No, I don't.  Why?" Kelly asks.

 

"How would you like to accompany me to a wedding?"

 

"A wedding?"

 

"Yeah, my Uncle, Michael Channing, is getting married.  Well, he's not really my uncle biologically, he's actually my cousin and my grandmother adopted him, but, anyway, will you come?"

 

Kelly laughs.  "Joseph, your family is SO complicated.  But yes, I would LOVE to go to your uncle-dash-cousin's wedding this afternoon."

 

Joseph smiles.  "I'm gonna have the prettiest date there," he says, leaning across the table to kiss her.

 

 

While Christopher showers, Courtney sits alone on the bed in their hotel suite, staring down at something she holds in her hand.  A flood of emotions begins to go through the young woman's mind as she stares blankly at the object in her hand.

Christopher comes in from the bathroom after getting out of the shower.  He sees that she is even more upset than earlier.  "Courtney?"  He says, walking over to her.  "Everything okay?"

 

She looks up at him.  "No," she says through her tears, while hiding the object in her hand.  

 

"You wanna tell me what's goin' on?  What's got you so upset?"

 

"Yeah.  I do.  I just hope that you meant what you said earlier about not judging me, and about not changing your opinion of me."

 

"Courtney, NOTHING would.  Now what is it?  Obviously, you're haunted by something, and I'd like to know what that is so we can fight this together."

"Christopher, when I was very young, I did a lot of things,"  she says.  "Things I am SO ashamed of today.

 

He walks over and takes a seat beside her on the bed.  "I can't imagine you doing anything that terrible."

 

"You didn't know me when I was a kid.  I was 13 when my parents started having serious problems in their marriage.  They use to fight all the time.  I would lay awake in bed at night listening, or trying NOT to listen.  I'd even put my head under the covers, but I could still hear.  This went on for months, and it affected me so much that I began to rebel.  My grades dropped, I started stealing.  Then finally, my Mom told my Dad to leave.  To just get out.  Christopher, I worshiped my father, and I blamed my Mom for all the problems they were having.  What I didn't know at the time was that my Dad had been cheating on her.  Finally when my Dad's mistress became pregnant with his child, my Mom kicked him out."

 

"That must've been horrible for you,"  Christopher says.

 

"It was.  Especially not knowing the truth.  I became hard to handle, so my Mom sent me to stay with my Uncle Donny and Aunt Lorraine in Florida, my Mom's brother.  Big mistake.  Uncle Donny and Aunt Lorraine have a daughter, my cousin Bethany, who's a couple years older than me.  Bethany was wild, and rebellious.  Uncle Donny and Aunt Lorraine were so busy with their careers that they didn't even notice.  So, with Bethany, I started doing drugs when I was 14.  I started with smoking marijuana, and drinking, and then moved on to harder stuff.  Soon, I met this boy, and I fell head over heels.  He was 16, two years older than me, and the most handsome boy I'd ever met.  We started dating.  This may surprise you, but, even with everything else I had done......drugs, stealing.....I was still a virgin.  So was my new boyfriend, and he wanted us to lose our virginity to each other, but I kept putting him off.  I was young and I just wasn't ready.  Well, to make a long story short, one night, one....... horrible night.........everything went to hell.  Uncle Don and Aunt Lorraine had been on my case, and my Mom called to tell me that she and my Dad were getting a divorce.  I yelled at her over the phone and blamed her.  It was then that she told me what had happened.  My Dad's affair, and that his girlfriend had just given birth to his son, my little half-brother.  I hung up on her and went to see my boyfriend, but, he wasn't in a very good mood either, so we had a might.  A big one.  I walked away from him and started home, but, I couldn't go home.  That night was my 15th birthday.  Anyway, this guy friend of Bethany's had gotten us both fake IDs so we would be able to get into some of the clubs in town.  It was my birthday, and I wanted some fun.  So, instead of going home that night, I decided to use my fake ID and go to a club downtown.  Of course my ID said I was 18, old enough to get in, but I still wasn't old enough to drink.  So, I decided to look for some guy over 21 who would be nice enough to buy me a drink, or two, or three.  There was a guy sitting at the bar who fit that bill.  A very good looking guy, so I approached him.  I recognized him from somewhere, but for the life of me, I couldn't remember where.  We talked for a long time that night, and he did buy me a couple drinks.  He didn't want to, but I coerced him.  After a couple of hours, we went back to his apartment.  I was so angry that I just wanted to hurt my boyfriend, my parents, my uncle and aunt.  Back in those days, I was a different person, and if someone hurt me, I hurt them back.  That night, I lost my virginity to this older guy."

 

"Wait, you were 15, so how old was this guy?"  Christopher asks.

 

"I dunno, in his 20s.  But, I had a fake ID, so he didn't know I was under age.  He thought I was 18.  The next day, my boyfriend and I made up.  I felt so guilty for cheating on him, but, the worst part was still ahead.  Not long after, I found out that.........I found out that the guy I had slept with was my boyfriend's brother.  I just couldn't

believe it.  It was like a nightmare.  After that I did my damnedest to avoid meeting my boyfriend's family.  A few weeks later, my boyfriend and I were together, and things got hot and heavy.  I finally gave in, and we had sex.  Somehow, I thought it would make the guilt I was feeling go away, but it didn't.  And then, a couple days later, I started feeling sick and throwing up.  I missed my period, and my cousin Bethany got me a pregnancy test.  I took it and....... and it was positive.  My Aunt Lorraine found the test in the trash, and she took me to a doctor who did some tests.  I was pregnant.  Barely 15-years-old, and pregnant.  Well, Aunt Lorraine and Uncle Donny didn't wanna deal with that, so they called my Mom to come and get me.  I broke up with my boyfriend, and he never even knew I was pregnant."

 

"But he wasn't the father?"  Christopher asks.

 

"No.  His brother was.  But I never told my Mom or anyone else who the father was.  I just told them it was some random boy I knew from school.  Last thing I wanted to do was to get a guy in trouble for statutory rape when I was the one who fooled him about my age with my fake ID.  So, my Mom took me back to Texas, to Houston.  I knew that at 15, there was no way I could raise a baby."

 

Christopher reaches out and gently strokes her hair.  "Courtney, did you have an abortion?"

 

"No," she replies.  "Oh, God no, I never would've even considered that.  And even if I had, my Mom never would've let me.  She's VERY pro-life.  There was this young couple that we knew who couldn't have children, and who'd been trying to adopt.  After my little boy was born, I have him up for adoption to them."

 

"You......you had a little boy?"  Christopher asks.

 

 

 

 

"Yeah.  And I gave him away.  That's a decision I have regretted every day of my life."  Courtney reaches down  beside her and picks up the photo she had been looking at when Christopher walked in.  "This is him.  My little baby boy."  She hands the photo to him.

Christopher takes the picture of the newborn baby and looks at it.  He smiles.  "He's adorable."

 

"Thank you,"  Courtney says.  "He's 9-years-old now."

 

"Have you even seen him since the adoption?"

 

"No.  The couple who adopted him moved away right after they adopted my little boy.  I don't even know where he is."

 

"Would you like to find out?"  Christopher asks.

 

"What?  What do you mean?"

 

"If you wanna find your little boy, we can,"  says Christopher.  "I'll help."

 

"You would?"

 

"Of course."

 

"Christopher, I would like nothing more than to find my son.  To just see him, and make sure he's okay."

 

"Alright, then we'll do it.  If you know the name of the couple who adopted him, it shouldn't be too hard to find them."

 

Courtney looks at him and smiles.  "I can't believe it," she says.  "The last guy I was involved with, as soon as I told him, he couldn't wait to turn tail and run.  I was so sure you were gonna do the same thing."

 

"Hey, I am NOT like other guys.  Courtney, I love you, and I'm not goin' anywhere."

 

Through her tears, Courtney smiles, and the two kiss.

 

 

 

 

"John Ross,"  Katherine says, anger in her voice.  "He's the reason for all this mess in the first place.  The reason Austin has turned against me.  And somehow, I'll make him live to regret telling Jeremy about Austin."

 

 

"Well don't worry, my dear,"  Richard says.  "Because I promise you we will have our revenge on John Ross, and on my new half-brother Jeremy Lord.  And somehow, I have got to find a way to get Jeremy Lord out of our lives and save both Falcon Crest and The Globe.

"Information about the man who pulls your strings.  Your old friend, Michael Channing."

 

"Look, I don't know what this is all about, but....."

 

"Okay, well, then, let me break it down for you," John Ross says.  "You and Michael Channing have known each other since you were in middle school together.  Upon graduation from college, when you decided to put that criminal justice degree to good use, Channing helped you get started by financially backin' you when you wanted to open up a detective agency.  Since then, you've been on Channing's personal payroll."

 

"So?"  Josh asks.  "It's basically the same arrangement you have with that private detective you keep on retainer."

 

John Ross smiles.  "So, you know about Bum, do ya?"

 

"Let's just say I've done my homework.  Now, is there a point to all this?"

 

"Yes, McQueen, there is most certainly a point,"  says John Ross.  "My arrangement with Bum Jones is similar to the one you have with Channing, but with one MAJOR exception."

 

"And what, may I ask, is that?"

 

"Bum itn't playin' both sides against the middle like you are,"  replies John Ross.  "Because if he was, he wouldn't be workin' for me.......he'd be buildin' igloos somewhere in Alaska."

 

The smug smile disappears very quickly from Josh's face.  "What are you talking about?"

 

"I know that you are ALSO workin' for Jeremy Lord, the arch enemy of the Channing fam'ly."

 

"Look, what do you want, Ewing?"  Josh asks nervously.

 

"Like I said......information,"  John Ross says, moving closer to him.  "I wanna know anything, and everything there is to know about your boss, Michael Channing, AND his father, Richard Channing.  You've known them a long time, so ya must know plenty.  I want you to deliver to me, by tomorrow mornin' any information on the Channings that could either send them to prison, or bring them to financial ruin."

 

"Why the hell should I help you?  Michael is my FRIEND.  I've known him since we were kids!"

 

John Ross smiles.  "Yeah, well, you got a real strange way of treatin' your friends, McQueen.  Goin' behind their backs, workin' for them and for the man who's out to destroy them all at the same time.  You're nothin' but a common, greedy little worm McQueen, whose only motivation is money.  Itn't that why you came here to see me today, 'cause you saw dollar signs flashin' in front of your face?  I want that information by tomorrow, before I head home to Dallas.  And, on the off chance that there's nothin' there......IF the Channings have been behavin' themselves legally since Daddy Richard's last run in with the law.........then you see to it that somethin' DOES turn up.  If it aint there.......you PUT it there, McQueen."

 

"And if I don't?"  Josh asks.

 

"Well, if ya don't, then Michael Channing and his daddy are gonna find out you been spyin' on them for Jeremy Lord,"  John Ross says.  "And then, not only will you have the wraths of the Channings come down on your head, but, if there's anything left of you after they get done... ........then I'll take over where the Channings left off, and you'll never work again.  You'll never be able to find a lunch date again, and THAT, I can promise you.  But, you do this little favor for me, and you will be paid very handsomely."

 

"Y'know, I could just go to Michael and tell him the truth,"  Josh says.  "Give him some sob story about why I did it.  We've been friends since we were kids."

 

"Yes, that's true, ya could.  But even if ya did that, I'll still destroy you, and there won't be a damned thing Channing will be able to do to stop me.  So you willin' to take that chance, McQueen?  I'll give you just a moment to decide between makin' enough money to retire to a private island someplace where Channing will never find you........or risk never workin' again, or maybe even somethin' worse happ'nin'."

 

"Worse?"  Josh asks, now shaking.

 

"Yeah, worse.  You got a younger sister, don't ya?"  John Ross asks.  "Let's see.......Ashley, it'n it?  Real pretty girl.  It'd be a damned shame if somethin' happened and she wuttin' so pretty anymore.  Or, I could just have a couple friends of mine mess up that handsome face of yours.  And there's always a third possibility..........you're quite the ladies' man, Josh.  Sure would be a shame if anything ever happened to your..........manhood.........while you were sleepin' one night.  I don't know about you, but, if  thought for even one second that I'd never be able to have sex again, especially at the young age of 30, well, I'd just as soon be dead.  Get my drift?"

 

"You son of a bitch,"  Josh says with gritted teeth.  "I thought Richard Channing was a monster, but that man's a saint compared to you!"

 

"When you're fightin' to keep your fam'ly, and your child safe........you'll do just about anything.   Remember, McQueen, you have until 10 o'clock tomorrow mornin'.  Now get the hell outta here."

 

Josh glares angrily at John Ross for a moment, then turns and starts to leave.

 

"McQueen,"  John Ross says.  Josh turns back and looks at him.  "One more thing.........when you DO find some dirt I can use to destroy the Channings, and I KNOW you WILL........the dirtier, the better."

 

Without another word, Josh leaves John Ross's suite.  After his new blackmail victim is gone, John Ross smiles with devious triumph.

 

Meanwhile, in the hallway outside, Josh pauses for a moment as he thinks about the situation he's gotten himself in, caught between the Channings, Jeremy Lord, and now John Ross Ewing.  After several seconds, he walks away. As Josh heads down the hall toward the elevator, a man is watching him from a doorway leading to the hotel stairs.  The man slightly opens the door and through the crack he watches as Josh gets onto the elevator.  After the elevator doors close, the man comes into the hallway and takes a cell phone from his pocket.  The man dials a number and waits for an answer.  Finally, someone answers. "Hey, it's me," the man says.  "Yeah, I've been tailing McQueen, and you'll never believe who he just had a meeting with.  None other than John Ross Ewing."

 

"John Ross Ewing,"  Michael Channing says.  "Thank you, Jason.  You've done an excellent job."

 

"I'm really sorry, Michael,"  Jason says.  "I know you and McQueen have been friends a long time, and I imagine this must be a real disappointment to you."

 

"Yeah, it is,"  says Michael.  "Never know who you can trust anymore.  Well, look, thanks man.  I'll be in touch."  Michael ends the call, mustering all of his will power not to throw his phone against the wall in anger.  He paces around his bedroom for a moment trying to calm himself down after learning of his friend's meeting with John Ross, and probable betrayal.  After a moment, he dials a number on his phone, then waits anxiously for an answer.  On the second ring, Josh answers his phone.  "Josh, hey, it's Michael.  You busy?"

 

 

 

 

"Michael, ummm, no, I'm not,"  Josh says on his phone as he walks out of the front entrance of the hotel.  "Why, what's up?"

 

 

"I need to see you,"  Michael says.  "Meet me at Golden Gate Park in half an hour."

 

"Sure, Michael, sure,"  Josh says, his nervousness apparent to Michael even over the phone.  "What's it about?  A job?"

 

"Yeah, man.  A job,"  Michael says.  "See you in half an hour."  Michael ends the call and puts his phone away, a look of anger on his face.

 

 

"Good afternoon, Mr. Lord,"  Chang-Li says.  "Please, come in."

 

"Thank you, Chang-Li.  Is Gabby at home?"

 

"Yes, she is.  I'll let her know that you are here."

 

"I already know, Chang-Li,"  Gabby says, standing on the stairs.  "Thank you.  Please leave us alone."

 

Chang-Li bows his head, then quietly leaves the room.  Gabby comes down the stairs into the foyer to face Alex.

 

 

"Hi,"  Alex says with a smile.  

 

"What are you doing here?"  Gabby asks.

 

"I just got back from Dallas.  I wanted to come over to see you.  I thought we could go over and visit Nick.  How is he?"

 

"Nick's fine.  But what makes you think I'd wanna see you?"  Gabby asks.

The smile disappears from Alex's face.  "Gabby, what's wrong?  What do you mean?"

"Your father is forcing my family out of our home, and you have the nerve to come here and act like nothing's wrong?"  Gabby asks angrily.  

 

"So that's what this is about?"  Alex asks.  "Gabby, I have nothing to do with that."

 

"You're Jeremy Lord's SON, Alex.  And you're not welcome in this house.  But soon, this place will belong to you once your father kicks my family out of Falcon Crest."

 

"Gabby, I'm really sorry for what my Dad's doing.  But, that has nothing to do with me."

 

"Let me just ask you something.  Did you know that your father was really a Channing?"

 

"No, I didn't,"  Jeremy says.  "There's a lot about my Dad that I didn't know until recently.  I didn't even know he had another son."

 

"What are you doing here?"  Lance asks, walking into the foyer.  

 

"I came to see Gabby,"  Alex replies.

 

"My daughter doesn't wanna see you, so you should just leave now,"  says an angry Lance.  

 

"Look, Mr. Cumson.......or, I guess since we're cousins, I should call you Lance.......I was just apologizing to Gabby for the trouble my father is causing your family.  I had no idea he was gonna try to take Falcon Crest away from you.  But, I really care about your daughter, and Gabby is one of my best friends.  She was the first friend I made when I moved here."

 

"Well, my daughter is not your friend anymore, Alex.  Just stay away from her.  Away from ALL of us.  We may technically be related by blood, but I never wanna see you around my family again."

 

 

"Is that how you feel, Gabby?"  Alex asks.  "Our friendship is over because of something my Dad is doing, and you never wanna see me again?"

 

Gabby looks at him, then looks at her father.  "Just leave, Alex.  Please."

 

Alex walks to the door and opens it.  He pauses a moment, then turns back to them.  "Look, I know this doesn't mean much, and it sure doesn't fix anything, but, for what it's worth, I'm really sorry."  Alex sadly leaves without another word.  

 

Gabby begins to cry.  Lance puts his arms around his daughter and embraces her.  "Honey, are you sure you're up to going to Kevin's wedding today?"  Lance asks her.  

 

"Yeah, I am, Daddy.  I need something to take my mind off all the bad stuff that's going on, and what better distraction than a wedding?"

 

Meanwhile, outside, as Alex is about to get into Vicky's car to leave, Angela drives up and comes to a stop behind him.  Getting out of her sports car, she walks up to him.  "Well, if it isn't 'Uncle' Jeremy's youngest brat," she says. "What are you doing here?  Did Daddy send you over here to gloat on his behalf?"

 

"I came to see Gabby.  Look I'm sorry for what my father did to you.  For what he's doing to your whole family.  I already told Lance that I would talk to my Dad on your family's behalf, and see if I can get him to back off."

 

"I doubt it will do any good,"  Angela says.  "Your father strikes me as the type of man who can't be swayed to change his mind."

 

"Couldn't hurt to try,"  Alex says, getting into the car.  Angela watches as he starts the car and drives off.

"Okay, I'm gonna stop beating around the bush and just come right out and ask,"  says Michael.  "Why did you go see John Ross Ewing at his hotel suite earlier today?"

 

"J.......John Ross Ewing?"

 

"And don't even bother trying to lie to me, Josh.  I've had you tailed.  I know every move you've made for the last week.  I also know that you've been in touch with Jeremy Lord.  You and I have known each other since we were 13, and I thought we'd been friends all that time.  So, for the sake of the many years we've been.......acquainted.......I'm gonna give you a chance to explain yourself before I completely dismantle your sorry life.  Now, go on.  Explain."

 

Josh chokes back tears.  "Michael, dude, I'm SO sorry. I know this looks bad, but......"

 

"It doesn't just look bad for, Josh, it actually looks TERRIBLE."

 

"Jeremy Lord offered me a lot of money to do a job for him."

 

"What job?"

 

Josh remains silent as tears begin falling down his face.  

 

Michael moves closer to him.  "Josh, you have a chance, at this point, to maybe get yourself out of this hole you've dug your ass into.  But if you don't tell me the complete truth RIGHT NOW, then, you may as well just say your prayers, bro, because if you're afraid of what Lord and Ewing are gonna do to you........I can promise that will be NOTHING compared to what I will do to you if you lie to me again."

 

"Lord was brainwashing Julia Cumson,"  Josh says.  "He had her taken out of the convent in Oregon several months ago.  Or rather, he had ME take her out of the convent.  While she was being held against her will, I put Lord in contact with this ex-CIA dude that I knew who was part of the CIA's mind control division.  For weeks, Julia was brainwashed, and hypnotized to do Jeremy Lord's will."

 

"And what exactly was it that Lord wanted my Aunt Julia to do?"  Michael asks.

 

"To return home to Falcon Crest, and sabotage the wine.  Lord had this whole big elaborate scheme to take over Falcon Crest as well as your father's newspaper."

 

"So Lord never intended to trade Falcon Crest for the Globe?  He planned to take them BOTH?"  Michael asks.

 

"Yeah, he did."

 

"So it was my Aunt Julia who sabotaged that wine that Falcon Crest had to recall?"

 

"Yes.  Jeremy Lord is a very dangerous man, Michael, and he wanted everything that belonged to your family."

 

"He must have paid you a hell of a lot of money to do this.  To betray me and my family like this.  Okay, so what about John Ross?  What were you doing, Josh?  Playing double agent?  You were spying on John Ross and Jeremy for me, when all the time you were working for THEM, too?"

 

"I wasn't working for John Ross,"  Josh says.  "He called and asked to see me today.  Michael, he is every bit as ruthless and dangerous as Lord is.  The guy threatened me.  He threatened my family if I didn't do what he said."

 

"And what did he want you to do?"  Michael asks.

 

"Give him information about you and your father.  Damning information that could send you both to prison.  And Ewing told me in no uncertain terms that if I couldn't find any evidence of any criminal activity, that I was to plant some.  Michael, that guy is out to completely destroy you and your father."

 

Michael looks at his former friend with hate in his eyes.  "And you were gonna help him do that, you son of a bitch?"  He asks, grabbing Josh by the collar of his shirt.  "Josh, I'm gonna make this just as clear as I can.......you're finished here, and I don't just mean in San Francisco, or just in California.  I mean in the WESTERN UNITED STATES!  You go home, and you pack your bags and get as far away from here as you can.  If you don't.......then I promise you will regret the day you were born.  And I'll make your family regret it, too."

 

"Michael, dude, I'm so sorry, man,"  Josh cries.

 

"Sorry?  Yeah, I'll agree with that.  You're a sorry piece of crap.  Now get out of my sight!"  Michael lets go of Josh's shirt, giving him a hard shove.  He watches as Josh turns and hurriedly walks away from him.  Michael's face shows the rage he feels building up inside of him.  "John Ross Ewing and Jeremy Lord," he says.  "You're both gonna pay for crossing my family."  Michael turns and heads back to his car.  

 

A moment later, Josh gets into his car, still shaking with fear from his encounter with Michael.  "Dear God, what am I gonna do?"  He quietly asks himself.  "John Ross, Michael, and Jeremy.  I've got all three of those bastards out for my blood now.  But they're not gonna get any of it.  I've got to find a way to take care of all three." After taking a minute or so to compose himself, he takes his cell phone from his pocket.  He dials a number.  On the second ring, a man answers.  "Hey, this is Josh McQueen.  I've got something I need for you to do.  And trust me, I'll make it worth your while."

"You ruin everything, don't you, Dad?"  Alex asks.  

 

"Son, what are you talking about?"  Jeremy asks.

 

"I went over to see Gabby.  You know, Gabby Cumson, a girl who was my friend until you decided to take her family's home and heritage away from them.  And now she never wants to see me again."

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

"Well, I'm terribly sorry about that, son,"  Jeremy says.

"Are you, really, Dad?"  Alex asks.  "Are you sorry for ANY of the pain you cause other people?  Gabby was the first friend I had when we moved here.  I really cared about her, and she really liked me, but you ruined that because of some stupid vendetta you have against Gabby's family.  And just when were you gonna get around to telling me that Richard Channing is your brother?"  Alex turns and starts to leave the kitchen, and almost bumps into Austin, who is walking in.  Alex looks at his new brother for a second.  "Austin, I hate to tell you this, dude, but you really might wanna reconsider being a part of this screwed up family."  Without another word, Alex brushes past Austin and walks out of the kitchen.

 

"Alex!"  Jeremy calls after his son.

 

"Jeremy, let him go,"  Vicky says.  "Just let him cool off for a while."

 

 

 

"What's going on?"  Austin asks.  "Did I walk in on something I shouldn't have?"

 

Jeremy and Vicky exchange looks, then Jeremy walks over to Austin. "Nothing for you to worry about," he says as Vicky looks on, concerned at how Jeremy's recent behavior and secrets is affecting their youngest son.

 

 

 

 

"Richard and Katherine Channing,"  Ann says.  "This is my brother, Mark Smith, his wife Sharon, and their son Shawn.  And this young woman is Christopher's girlfriend, Courtney."

 

Katherine smiles.  "Well it's very love to meet all of you, and welcome to our home."

 

Emma, Elena, and Angie come into the foyer.  Christopher and Elena's eyes meet as they come face to face for the first time in quite a while.

 

 

 

 

"Hello, Christopher,"  Elena says.

 

"Elena,"  Christopher says, a look of anger on his face and a tone of anger in his voice.  

 

"How've you been?"

 

"Been great.  And married life really seems to agree with you."

 

"It does,"  Elena says.

 

"Christopher, aren't you going to introduce us?"  Courtney asks.

 

"Yeah, sure, Courtney Wapner......Elena Channing."

 

"Hello, Courtney,"  Elena says.

 

"Elena, it's a pleasure,"  Courtney says politely.

 

"Well, I'm glad that you're all here,"  Emma says.  "Mom, I could really use your help getting ready."

 

Ann smiles as she takes her daughters hands.  "That's what I'm here for.  Oh, Emma, I can't believe that in just a couple of hours, my little girl is gettin' married."

 

"I can't believe it, either,"  Emma says, a hint of sadness in her tone.

 

"Well, gentlemen, why don't we adjourn to the living room?"  Richard asks.  "Bobby, Christopher, can I offer you a drink?"

 

Bobby looks sternly at his host.  "No, thank you, Channing."

 

"Still holding a grudge over all that stuff that happened months ago, I see.  How about we let bygones be bygones, especially now that we're going to be related."

"So we should just bury the hatchet and be best buds, is that it?"  Bobby asks.  "Even after you declared war on my family?  Let's get one thing straight, Channing.  I'm here for my wife's sake and for Emma's.  NOT to make peace with you or your son Michael."

 

Richard looks at Bobby with a smile as Bobby and Christopher walk into the living room.  As Richard is about to follow them, Michael bursts into the house.

 

"Dad, I need to talk to you,"  he says.  "It's important.  REAL important."

 

Richard looks at his son curiously, wondering what could be so urgent.

 

A moment later, Lance comes down the stairs into the foyer, where Pilar, Eric, Gabby, Emma Channing, and Angela are waiting for him.

 

"Isn't your mother coming?"  Pilar asks.

 

"No.  Says she isn't feeling well and she'd rather stay here."

 

"I'm really worried about Julia,"  Emma Channing says.  "I think I'll go speak to her."

 

"Emma, no,"  Lance says.  "I think she'd rather just be alone. She'll be fine, and Chang-Li is here if she needs anything,  so let's go.  Who knows, this wedding may be the last happy occasion this family has for a while, once we're turned out of our home."

 

"Hey, Aunt Emma,  I just realized something,"  Eric says.

 

"And what's that?"  

 

"When Kevin gets married, there's gonna be TWO Emma Channings in this family,"  Eric replies as the family walks out of the house.

 

 

 

As the family gets into two different cars......Lance, Pilar, Eric and Gabby in Lance's car, Emma and Angela in Angela's car........Julia stands at her bedroom window upstairs looking down at the group as they pile into the vehicles and then drive off.  At first, Julia has a strange look on her face, then, what appeared to be a look of anger turns to one of sadness as she begins to cry.

"You won't do anything,"  says Richard.

 

"But, Dad, these people are trying to destroy us."

 

"I know that.  But today is Kevin's day, and I will not have your brother's wedding turned into a war zone, do I make myself clear?  There'll be plenty of time to deal with John Ross Ewing and Jeremy Lord after today."

"I don't think I can stand being in the same room with those two,"  Michael says.

 

"Son, I feel the same way, but we're just gonna have to grin and bear it...... for now,"  says Richard.  "For Kevin's sake."

 

Michael looks at his father and nods.  

 

"Oh, the pleasure's all mine, miss,"  the young man says with a slight smile.  

 

Angie smiles at him again, then closes the door.  

 

As the delivery man stands on the porch, a strange expression comes over his face.  "Yep.....pleasure's all mine," he says again to himself.  "Hope you folks have a REAL happy wedding," he says suspiciously, then smiles and leaves.

 

Meanwhile, Angie places the medium sized white box the young man had delivered on a table in the dining room, where numerous other wedding gifts had been placed.  Little does she know what's inside that box will place her entire family and everyone at the wedding in grave danger.

 

 

 

"Dude, what's wrong?  You seem pissed."

 

Alex Lord sighs.  "Yeah.  Just kinda pissed at my Dad."

 

"Sorry to hear that, bro.  Hey, there's Gabby.  Let's go talk to her."

 

"You go,"  Alex Lord says.  "Gabby doesn't wanna see or talk to me."

 

"Why?"  Alex Walton asks.

 

"Because of my Dad."

 

Alex Walton gives his friend a puzzled look.

"I could ask you the same question,"  says Chase.  "I'm here for my uncle's wedding.  What are YOU doing here?"

 

"Your uncle?"  Courtney asks.

 

"Yeah, my Uncle, Kevin Channing."

 

"Oh wow.  I can't believe it."

 

"My God, it's been so long.  How many years has it been?  9?  I haven't seen or heard from you since you moved from Florida back to Texas."

 

At that moment, Joseph walks up to the table.  "What's up, little brother?"

 

Courtney turns around and when she sees Joseph, her eyes grow wide.  

 

 

 

 

 

"Is this lovely young woman your date?"  Joseph asks.

Courtney stares strangely at Joseph.

 

"No, Joseph, Courtney and I use to date when we were in high school back in Florida,"  Chase says.  

 

"Really?  Courtney?  You do look familiar."

 

"Actually, Joseph, you never met Courtney,"  Chase says.  "You were too busy with your own life in those days."

 

Joseph looks at the girl.  "Well, I do know you from somewhere.  It's possible we bumped into each other in Florida back then, and I didn't know you were dating my kid brother."

 

At that moment, Angie walks into the room with Kevin.  "Everyone, let me have your attention," Kevin says.  The mingling guests begin to get quiet and gather around him.  "Thank you.  The wedding is about to begin, so if everyone would begin finding a seat, please.  Thanks."  Kevin makes his way to the front of the room, followed by his brother Michael, serving as his best man.  

 

Christopher walks back into the room followed by John Ross.  Christopher and Courtney make their way to their seats, Courtney still shaken by her encounter with the Gioberti brothers.  As they sit down, Christopher notices the change in her mood.  "You okay?"  He asks.

 

"Fine," she replies, unconvincingly.  

 

Meanwhile, the guests have all taken their seats......on one side of the room sit Richard, Katherine, Emma Channing, her daughter Angela, Lance, Pilar, Eric, Gabby, Cole, Joseph, Chase (who continues to stare across the room at Courtney), Vicky, Jeremy, Jonathon, Austin, and Alex Lord.  On the other side of the room sits Ann, Christopher, Courtney, John Ross, Ann's brother Mark Smith, his wife Sharon, their son Shawn, and Alex Walton. Standing at the front of the crowd is a very nervous Kevin, beside his brother Michael.  Once everyone is seated and the room is quiet, the wedding march begins.  

 

Elena and Angie come down the isle first and take their places in front with Kevin and Michael.  Then, Bobby Ewing comes down the isle with his beautiful stepdaughter on his arm.  

 

Kevin watches with a smile as his beautiful bride comes down the isle on the arm of her stepfather.  Ann watches with pride. While the bride marches down the isle, she and everyone else in the room is unaware that, in the dining room, in a wrapped gift box, is a ticking time bomb that is about to go off.  Finally, Emma and Bobby reach the front and Bobby hands Emma over to her groom.

 

Bobby nods at Kevin, then takes his seat next to Ann on the front row.  The bomb across the foyer in the dining room continues to tick.....

 

The minister steps forward.  "Dearly beloved, we are gathered here on this glorious Sunday afternoon to witness the joining together of this man, Kevin Channing, and this woman, Emma Ryland, in holy matrimony......

 

Before the minister can say another word........

 

 

KA-BOOOOOM!!!!!!!

The entire Channing mansion is suddenly rocked by an earsplitting explosion......outside, as the bomb goes off, the once stately Channing home can be seen, part of its roof blown off, bricks, wood, and plaster literally blown hundreds of feet as the mansion is reduced to a pile of rubble, with the Ewing, Channing, Gioberti, Cumson, and Lord families inside......