EPISODE 236 - The Contest

As the sun rises over Southfork, Alex is sleeping restlessly, his slumber once again haunted by horrible nightmares and images of the time he spent as Shawn's captive in New Mexico, and of the tragedy that occurred on the cliff.....

Alex rolls over onto his back and sees Shawn standing over him with the gun pointed directly at his chest.  

 

"You stupid son of a bitch,"  Shawn says.  "I should kill you for that."  Enraged at Alex's attempt to escape, Shawn kneels down beside him, then brutally strikes Alex across the face.  While Alex is still dazed from this latest blow, Shawn stands, looks down at him, and viciously kicks Alex as hard as he can in the ribs on his right side.  Alex cries out in pain as he draws his legs up to his chest in a fetal position.  Shawn again looks down at him.  After a brief pause, he kneels beside Alex and grabs him by the hair, pulling him into a sitting position.  Shawn pull Alex's head back by the hair with one hand, and puts the barrel of his gun in Alex's face with his other hand.  "You EVER try anything like that again, and I promise you, Alex, what I'll do to you will have you BEGGING me to kill you.  Now get on your feet."

 

"I can't,"  Alex cries.  "I think you broke my ribs."

 

"You'll be fine, you can walk it off.  Now get on your damned feet."  Still grasping Alex's hair in his hand, Shawn cruelly forces him to his feet.  "Now get going unless you want me to break those ribs on your other side."

 

 In terrible pain, Alex begins walking deeper into the woods, a gun wielding Shawn right behind him

 

 

 

 

 

 

Back in his bed, Alex rolls over onto his back, a look of distress on his face as he continues to dream.....

 

 

Alex grabs Shawn's arm with the gun, the gun fires, and narrowly misses Justin, who quickly dodges out of the way.  Alex and Shawn wrestle for the gun as John Ross and Clay run toward them.  Shawn is getting the better of Alex, as he has Alex down.  A few seconds later, the loud sound of a gunshot rings out........the gun has gone off, blood splatters on Alex's face, and either Alex or Shawn has been shot. 

 

John Ross and Clay stop short a few feet from them.  "NOOOOOO!!!!!!!"  John Ross yells out, terrified that Alex has been shot.  They watch as Shawn staggers away from Alex.

 

 

Alex watches as Shawn takes a couple of steps backward, away from him.  He is horrified to see a large gunshot wound in Shawn's upper abdomen, gushing blood.  "SHAWN!!"  Alex yells.

 

 

 

Shawn looks down at his wound, and touches it with his hand, which becomes covered in blood.  Then he looks up at Alex.  A tear falls down Shawn's face.  Shawn is right at the edge of the cliff that drops off into the canyon.  He takes a step backward, and trips over a log on the ground.  He loses his footing.  

 

"SHAAAWWWN!!!!!"  Alex yells as Shawn trips and falls backward over the side of the cliff.  Alex 

 

rushes toward him and manages to grab Shawn's arm just as Shawn is about to fall to a certain death into the canyon below.  "Shawn, hold on, I got you,"  Alex tells him as he struggles to pull him up.

 

"Alex,"  Shawn cries.  

 

"It's okay, I'm not gonna let you fall,"  Alex says.  

 

John Ross, Clay, and Justin rush to the edge of the cliff.  John Ross grabs onto Alex's waist.  "I got you, Alex."

 

"Help me!"  Alex pleads, Shawn's sweaty arm quickly slipping from his grip.  "Help me pull him up.  He's slipping."

 

 

 

 

"No.......NO,"  Alex calls out in his sleep.  His nightmare continues.....

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Hanging onto Alex's arm by one hand, Shawn looks up at him, his arm steadily slipping from Alex's grip due to the sweat on both their arms.  "Alex........let me go,"  Shawn says.

 

"No.  I'm gonna get you up."

 

"It's over man.  I've got nothing to go back for, and I may pull you over with me.  Let me go."

 

"I won't, Shawn."

 

A tear falls down Shawn's face as he looks into Alex's eyes.  "We did have some good times, didn't we?  For what it's worth.......I'm sorry, for everything."

 

"Shawn....."

"Alex, we both always knew it would end this way, with one of us dying and the other living,"  Shawn says.  "Despite everything, I always loved you, man."

 

 

 

Alex watches helplessly in horror as Shawn's hand slips out of his grip, and Shawn falls.  "NOOOOOOOOOOO!!!!!!"  Alex screams as he, John Ross, Justin, and Clay watch Shawn fall down the canyon and into the river below!!

Alex awakens suddenly and sits upright in bed, his clothes and body drenched in a cold sweat.  He is breathing heavily and his heart is pounding from fear.  He looks around his bedroom, and after a few seconds, he finally realizes that he is safe in his own bed, in his own room.  Reluctantly, he lays his head back down on the pillow, but, the pillow and bed being wet from his sweat, he finds it impossible to get comfortable.  A few seconds later, he sits up on the bed and puts his feet on the floor.  He buries his face in his hands and begins to cry.  Every night since he's been home, he's been having this same nightmare of Shawn and of Shawn falling from the cliff.

Later....

Bobby, Ann, Lucas, Heather, and Christopher are having breakfast on the patio later in the morning when Alex comes out of the house.  

"Mornin'. Alex," Ann says.

"Morning,"  Bobby greets his grand-nephew.

"Morning,"  Alex says, taking a seat at the table.  

"Alex, you look terrible," says Heather.  "Have you been sleepin'?"

"No, I haven't."

"Maybe you should think about seeing a doctor and getting something to help you sleep," Lucas says.

Alex sighs.  "I don't wanna have to depend on drugs to help me sleep."

"I think that's wise, Alex, but if you're unable to sleep on your own, it might not be such a bad idea," Bobby says.  

Michael comes out of the house and takes his usual seat at the table.  

"Hey, sweetheart, all ready for camp?"  Heather asks.

"Yep, got all my stuff packed and I'm ready to go." 

"You're going to Ronald McDonald Camp?"  Alex asks.  "I thought that place was for sick kids."

"It is," says Michael.  "I'm working there as a volunteer counselor."

"And we're all real proud of you," Heather says.

"A volunteer, huh?"  Alex asks.

"Yeah," says Michael.  "Hey, Alex, maybe you'd like to volunteer at the camp.  I think they still need a couple more counselors."

"Alex, that's a wonderful idea," Ann says.  

"I dunno,"  says Alex.  "I'm not sure I could do those kids much good.  I've got too many problems of my own to help anyone else with theirs.  Y'all excuse me.  I'm not hungry this morning."  Alex gets up from the table and leaves.  The family watches as he gets into his car and drives away.

"I'm really worried about him,"  Lucas says.  "I don't think he's completely dealt with everything that happened with Shawn, and with Shawn's death."

John Ross and Krystina come out of the house.  "Hey, where's Alex goin' off to this early?"  John Ross asks.

"We don't know,"  Bobby replies.  "He just said he wasn't hungry and got up and left."

"I guess it's my fault,"  says Michael.  "I never should have suggested he volunteer as a counselor at Camp Ronald McDonald."

"No, it's not your fault, sweety,"  Heather says.

"John Ross, I think Alex's emotional problems are getting worse,"  Krystina says.

"What emotional problems?"

"Ever since you guys came back from New Mexico, Alex has been distant, and moody, and depressed.  It's obvious what happened with Shawn affected him very deeply.  I think he's gonna need counseling."

"I don't think he sleeps much, either,"  Michael says.  

"Why do you say that?"  John Ross asks.

"I hear him up sometimes real late."

John Ross nods.  "I'll talk to him."

"John Ross, don't forget, we're ,meeting in your office later this morning to go over the terms of the contest between you and Clay, and for Clay and Christopher to sign the contract for Clay to purchase Christopher's shares of Ewing Oil,"  Bobby says.

"How the hell could I forget?"  John Ross asks.  "That's all I been thinkin' about ever since you told you us about this little contest of yours.  I'm not real hungry this mornin' myself.  I'll grab a sandwich later."  John Ross kisses Krystina, then walks away.  

"Bobby, how could you do this?"  Krystina asks, looking at Bobby.  "John Ross has worked really hard to prove himself at Ewing Oil, and instead of trusting him with the company, you set up this ridicuous contest between he and Clay.  And I just know this is gonna end badly, for all of us."  Krystina walks away and follows John Ross out to his car.

Lucas looks at his father.  "Dad, I know I'm not part of Ewing Oil, and I'd never try and tell you how to run your business, but I have to say that, setting up this rivalry between John Ross and Clay was probably a bad idea.  I'm afraid that you may have opened up a Pandora's Box of problems."

Bobby looks at his son with a worried and somewhat sad expression, afraid that what Lucas said is right.  Bobby begins to wonder if he had made the right decision in setting up this contest between John Ross and Clay, as his own father had done almost four decades ago between he and J.R.........or if he had made a terrible mistke that the entire family would live to regret.

Alex and Ryan Walden, Tyler's younger brother, are running together on the running track of one of Dallas's numerous parks.  

"Hey, dude, slow down!"  Ryan yells as Alex pulls way ahead of him.

"No way.  You're just gonna have to keep up."

"I can't.  You're too fast for me.  Come on, I'm exhausted."

"Okay, we'll rest for a while,"  Alex says.  The two jog over to Alex's car and stop.  

"Whew.  Man, I'm tired,"  Ryan says.  

"Yeah, me too.  But that's the whole point.  If you're not exhausted and haven't worked up a good sweat, then there's no point in running to keep in shape."

"Tyler use to say the same thing."

"I know.  Where do you think I heard it,"  Alex says.  "Hey, you want a Gatorade?"

"Yeah, I'd love one.  First, I'm gonna change outta this wet shirt."

While Alex opens his car and reaches into a cooler and takes out a Gatorade, Ryan walks over to his car, parked behind Alex's, opens the back door, and takes out another shirt.  He changes shirts quickly, tossing his sweat drenched shirt onto the floor of his car.  Alex hands him the Gatorade.  

"Thanks,"  Ryan says.  

"You're welcome."  Got a cup and some ice in the cooler if you want."

"Yeah, thanks."  Ryan goes to Alex's car.  Alex gives him a large clear plastic cup.  Ryan puts some ice in it, and then pours his drink over the ice.

"Let's sit over there and rest,"  Alex suggests.  The two young men walk over to a small building and sit down in front.  

"Alex, I really appreciate you hangin' out with me today,"  Ryan says.  

"Hey, no problem, man.  You remind me a lot of Tyler.  Makes me feel kinda close to him."

"I miss him so much, Alex,"  Ryan says.  "I think I miss my brother more every day.  Whenever I go by his bedroom, it's like I can hear him call my name."

"How are your Mom and Dad doing?"  Alex asks.  

Ryan takes a sip of his Gatorade through a straw.  "Dad's doin' okay, I guess.  It's Mom I'm worried about.  Tyler's all she ever talks about.  God, I just want things back to normal.  Back to the way they use to be."

"Yeah, so do I.  "

"Alex, you okay, man?  You seem REALLY bummed out about something."

"Nothing I wanna burden you with, man."

"It's still messing with your head, isn't it?"  Ryan asks.  "What that son of a bitch Shawn did to you."

Alex nods and lets out a sigh.  "I've been having nightmares ever since.  The same recurring nightmare."

"About being kidnapped?"

"Yeah, and about..........about Shawn falling from the cliff."

"That's something I wish I'd have seen,"  Ryan says.  "I hate that bastard for what he did.  Tyler was his friend, and he killed him in cold blood.  If I had been there, I'd have shoved his ass off that cliff myself.  I'm glad you let him fall."

"I didn't let him fall, Ryan.  I tried to pull him back up, but I couldn't hold on.  He slipped out of my hands and fell."

Ryan looks at him.  "You WHAT?  You tried to save that guy, after what he did to you?  After he killed my brother, your FRIEND?  Dude, are you crazy?"

"I thought I hated Shawn more than I've ever hated anything in my life, but when he slipped and fell, and he was hanging off the side of that cliff.........Ryan, when I looked at him, when I saw his face..... I couldn't let him fall without trying to save him.  Yeah, part of me still hated him for everything he did. But looking into Shawn's eyes on that cliff, I saw the guy I use to know.  The Shawn who was my friend.  Tyler's friend.  I wanted him to pay for everything, but not by dying.  I don't think Tyler would have wanted that, either.  Do you?"

Ryan remains silent as he lowers his head.  

"I can't get those images out of my head,"  Alex continues.  "I haven't even gotten a good night's sleep in weeks."

"Have you ever thought about seeing a therapist?"  Ryan asks.  "I've been seeing one.  I started seeing him right after Tyler died.  He's someone my Dad knows, and my Dad thought I needed it.  He's been trying to get my Mom to go, too, but she keeps refusing."

"Has it helped?"  

"Yeah, a little.  It might help you, too."  Tyler gets up from his seat and walks to his car parked nearby.  Alex follows.  Tyler opens the front passenger door, and reaches into the glove compartment.  He takes out his wallet, opens it, and pulls out a business card, which he hands to Alex.  "This is my therapist's name, and his address and phone number.  Call him, dude.  It's helped me a lot just to talk about stuff with someone I'm not close to."

Alex takes the card and looks at it.  He nods.

Ewing Oil....

 Bobby, John Ross, Christopher, Sue Ellen, and Clay are meeting in Ewing Oil's conference room with Jay Smithfield and with Clay's attorney, Susan Clark.  Christopher finishes signing one page of the contract, selling his shares of Ewing Oil to Clay. 

"Now Clay, you sign there, under Christopher's signature,"  Jay says, handing Clay the contract.  Clay reads it over briefly, then signs it.  "And sign here,"  Jay says, giving Clay another piece of paper, which he also signs.  

"Well, there ya go,"  Clay says after signing.  

"Congratulations, Clay, you are now the owner of one fourth, or 25% of Ewing Oil,"  Jay says.

Clay looks at the contract and smiles.  "I can't believe it."

"Well, how's it feel, cousin?"  Christopher asks.

"Feels great," Clay replies.  "I never thought this day would come.  Christopher, I can't tell you what this means to me."

"Well, Clay, you've earned it," Christopher says.  

"Clay, you keep a copy of the contract, and I'll keep a copy,"  Clay's attorney, Susan, says.  

"And Christopher, here is a cashier's check for $150 million,"  Clay says, handing Christopher the check.

"Thanks,"  Christopher says.

"Well, congratulations, gentlemen,"  says Jay.  "Now, let's move on to the business of the contest to determine whether John Ross, or Clay, will become this company's next president."

"Well, since this part of the meeting doesn't concern me, I'll be going," says Christopher.  

"See you back at the ranch, son,"  Bobby says.

"Sure, Dad.  Clay, congratulations, and good luck.  Don't let me down."

"Don't worry, I won't."

Christopher shakes hands with Clay, then leaves the conference room.  

"Y'all excuse me, I'll be right back,"  John Ross says, following his cousin out of the room.  "Christopher, hold up."

Christopher stops and turns to him.  "What can I do for you, John Ross?"

"Why?  Why the hell did you not offer to sell me your shares of Ewing Oil if you wanted out of the company?  Why offer them to Clay Beaumont and not to me?"  

"Yes, I do have something to say,"  Bobby begins.  "Many years ago, my Daddy set up a similar contest between J.R. and myself to determine which one of us would run Ewing Oil after he was gone.  That was a very bitterly fought battle, one that I don't want repeated.  That's why I will be personally overseeing this contest myself.  I want this contest to be fair and above board, on both sides.  You will each conduct business as usual for your half of Ewing Oil.  And at the end of three months, your books will be audited, and whoever's half of Ewing Oil is ahead profit wise,, and whoever has made the most profitable deals, will be Ewing Oil's new president and CEO."

"John Ross and Clay, you've both been given a list of the terms and conditions of this contest," says Jay.  "Do you both agree to these terms?"

"Don't, Bobby,"  she says, angrily.  "Don't try to explain to me again your reasons for doing this, because I just don't wanna hear it."

Sue Ellen also walks out, leaving Bobby alone in the conference room.

The Krebbs Ranch....later....

 Conner is working with some of the other hands on the Krebbs Ranch later in the afternoon, unloading some bales of hay into a pasture, when the hands see Ray's truck driving out into the pasture to them.  "Hey, it's Mr. Krebbs,"  one the young hands says.  

Conner looks up and watches as Ray drives up them and parks.  Ray gets out of the truck and walks over to them.  "Boys,"  Ray says.

"Afternoon, Mr. Krebbs,"  one of the hands says.  

"You boys mind if I have a word with Conner?"

"Umm, guys, take a ten minute break,"  Conner tells the hands.  "There's some water and Gatorade in the back of my truck."

After the other hands walk away, Ray approaches Conner.  "How ya doin'?"  Ray asks.

"Fine,"  Conner replies.  An awkward silence follows.  

"So why'd you move out?"  Ray asks after a moment.

"I felt like I had to,"  Conner says.  "It's best for everyone."

"Best for everyone?  Best for who?"

"Best for you, and for Donna.  And for Dylan, when he comes home...... IF he comes home."

"Your brother IS gonna come home, Conner,"  Ray says.  

"You don't know that.  Ray, we don't even know where he is.  For all we know, he could be........."

"Don't even say it.  Don't even THINK it.  Dylan is just fine, and he's out there somewhere, and we're gonna find him."

"It's been weeks, Ray,"  Conner says.  "We've been all over this city looking.  You've had the police searching for him, and even a private detective, and so far, there's no trace.  He may not even be in Dallas.  What if he left town?"

"That detective we hired checked with all the airports and bus stations in town.  No one fitting Dylan's description has been seen.  The police and our detective have also checked all the hospitals, and....... and even the morgues.  Dylan is alive, and he's somewhere around here."

"He could've hitchhiked out of town.  Ray, I pray to God you're right and that Dylan isn't hurt or worse.  But if he IS okay, then, it's obvious that he doesn't wanna be found.  It's obvious he wants to be as far away from this family as he can get."

"And what about you?"  Ray asks.  "Do you wanna be as far away from the family as you can get?"

"What kinda question is that?"

"A legitimate one.  You moved out of the house without even telling us.  Not even a note."

"I heard you and Donna talking the other morning,"  Conner says, struggling to hold back his tears.  "Donna said she didn't think she'd ever be able to forgive me for what I did."

Ray sighs.  "Conner....."

"No, she was right.  She was right, Ray.  I can't blame Donna for how she feels.  I really messed things up.  I don't think I'll ever be able to forgive myself, so how can I expect anyone else to?"

"Conner, ya made a mistake,"  says Ray.  "You never meant to hurt Dylan, but it happened.  You can't keep beatin' yourself up about somethin' you can't change.  Conner, I gotta ask you a question.  Are you in love with Ashley?"

Conner looks at him.  "Yeah, Ray.  I am.  I love Ashley very much, but she won't have anything to do with me.  She's so eaten up by guilt that she pushed me away.  Told me she doesn't wanna see me again."

Ray looks away from Conner and sighs.  "I know how much it hurts when someone you love pushes you out of their life.  But maybe it's for the best."

"For the best?"  Conner asks.  "Yeah, maybe it is.  Maybe Ashley and I were just doomed from the start."

"I'm sorry, son.  Conner, I want you to come home."

Conner shakes his head.  "I'm sorry, Ray, but I can't.  At least not right now.  I think we all need some time and some space.  C.J. told me I could stay with him as long as I need to, and I'm gonna take him up on it for a while.  I think that's for the best, and especially if Dylan is found.  Home is where he belongs right now, and there's no way the two of us could live under the same roof after what happened."

Ray nods in agreement.  "Alright.  But if you need anything.....money, or ANYTHING......you let me know."

"I will."

"And whenever you're ready to come back, you'll always have a home with us, no matter what."

"Thank you, Ray.  And don't worry, I plan to continue on as foreman of the ranch."

"Good.  Well, I'll see ya."

"Bye, Ray,"  Conner says as Ray goes back to his truck.  Conner watches as  Ray gets into his truck and drives away.

Perry's Steakhouse And Grille.....that night....

 John Ross and Krystina are having dinner at Perry's that evening, and all through dinner, John Ross has remained unusually quiet.  Krystina watches him as he cuts a piece of his steak and takes a bite.  "You seem a million miles away tonight,"  Krystina finally says.

"Huh?  What'd you say, darlin'?"

"I said you seem a million miles away tonight.  This contest between you and Clay is really bothering you, isn't it?"

"It's so damned unfair, Krystina," John Ross says.  "This whole thing.  Ever since Uncle Bobby named me actin' president, I have given my ALL to Ewing Oil.  I've worked my ass off to build that comp'ny up to be the best.  And what the hell do I get for it when Uncle Bobby finally decides to retire?  Instead of bein' named permanent president and CEO, I've gotta compete with the likes of Clay Beaumont to keep my job."

"I totally agree, it IS unfair,"  says Krystina.  "I can't imagine why Bobby would do this."

"Itn't it obvious?  Uncle Bobby has never fully trusted me to run Ewing Oil.  He's always compared me to my father, and as long as he sees J.R. in me, he's never gonna trust me."

"Then prove yourself to him, John Ross,"  Krystina says.  "Prove to Bobby and to everyone else that you can run Ewing Oil better than Clay."

"Damn it, I shouldn't have to prove myself."

"No, you're right, you shouldn't.  But, unfortunately, the reality is, until you do, Bobby's never gonna trust that you're capable of running Ewing Oil from now on.  John Ross, I know what you're going through right now.  I had to deal with the same thing with my father.  When he retired, he had to make a choice of which of his children should fill his shoes as president of Denver-Carrington.  He didn't really want to hand the reigns of his company over to one of his daughters because he wanted a male heir to succeed him.  Old fashioned, I know.  Steven wasn't particularly interested. He didn't fully trust Adam because of all the things Adam had done in the past. So, with myself and my sisters Fallon and Amanda out of the running, my father considered one of my nephews, either Fallon's son L.B., or Steven's son Danny.  Danny, of course had wander lust, and he hit the road as soon as he found out Daddy was considering him to take over Denver Carrington.  But he still wasn't sure about L.B. because he didn't have a lot of experience in business yet.  So the choice really came down between nephew, L.B., and Steven, even though he didn't really want the job.  I was bound and determined to prove to my father that I was worthy and capable of taking over.  So I worked hard.  Harder than I ever had before in my life, but I did it.  I proved myself worthy of inheriting my father's legacy, and he named me his successor.  Now you prove to Bobby that you're more worthy of Ewing Oil than your nephew."

 John Ross reaches across the table and takes her by the hand.  "I'm so damned lucky to have you by my side, supportin' me."

"I love you,"  Krystina says.

"And I love you.  And when I beat Clay in this contest and become full, permanent president and CEO of Ewing Oil, I want you to join me in the comp'ny.  And I'm gonna promote Alex.  Make it OUR family's company.  We can be the biggest power couple this town's ever seen."

"I love the sound of that,"  Krystina says as Holly Harwood and her date......none other than Brad's friend, Craig Forrester........walk over to their table.  

"Good evenin', John Ross,"  Holly says.  

"Well, well, Holly Harwood,"  John Ross says.  "I heard you were back at the helm of Harwood Oil.  Brandon left town or somethin'."

"My son needed some time away,"  Holly says.  "So he took a leave of absence for a while."

"I see.  Oh, excuse my manners.  Ms. Harwood, I'm not sure if you've ever met my wife, Krystina.  Darlin', this is Holly Harwood."

"I have seen you before,"  Holly says.  "But it's nice to officially meet you."

"Likewise, Ms. Harwood."

"Please, call me Holly.  BOTH of you.  Oh, and may I introduce Craig Forrester.  Craig, this is John Ross Ewing III and his lovely wife, Krystina."

"Mr. and Mrs. Ewing,"  Craig says.  "It's a pleasure.  I've heard a lot about you."

"Have you, now?"  John Ross asks.

"It's very nice to meet you, Mr. Forrester," says Krystina.  "Are you from Dallas?"

"No, no I'm not.  I'm new in town, actually.  Here on business."

"And what sort of business is that, Forrester?"  John Ross asks.

"It's Dallas, so what else?  Oil."

"Craig, we had better be getting to our table,"  Holly says.  

"Of course,"  Craig says.  "Again, it was nice meeting both of you."

"Yes, same here,"  Krystina says as Holly and Craig walk away.  Krystina watches them curiously as they make their way across the room and take their seats at Holly's table.  "He's awfully young for her, isn't he?  He looks to be about your age."

"From what I've heard about her, age has never stopped Holly Harwood.  She's a lot like Marilee Stone.  She likes 'em young and virile.  But there's somethin' about that guy that seems off.  Somethin' I don't exactly like or trust."

Meanwhile, across the room, Holly and Craig settle into their seats at Holly's usual table.  "So that's John Ross Ewing,"  Craig says.

"Yes.  A snake in the grass like his father," replies Holly.  

"Interesting,"  Craig says, watching John Ross and Krystina with a devious smile.

Clay's apartment....the next morning....

 Clay is pouring himself a cup of coffee in his kitchen early the next morning, a huge smile on his face as he looks forward to this contest with John Ross.  Ashley comes out of her bedroom and walks into the kitchen.  

"Morning,"  Clay cheerfully says.

"Morning.  What are you doing in here so early?"

"I woke up early, and I couldn't go back to sleep, so I made breakfast."

"YOU?  Made breakfast?"  Ashley asks.  

"Hey, now, just hold on,"  Clay says.  "Who do you think did all the cooking around here before you moved in?  I did."

"I forget you were the confirmed bachelor for so long.  Smells good."

"Well, I hope you find that it tastes as good as it smells,"  says Clay.  "Have a seat."

"You sure are in a good mood this morning," Ashley says.

"Yes, I am.  I have a very important meeting this morning.  A meeting that could snag me the biggest deal Ewing Oil has had in a long time."

"Oh, that's right, this contest between you and John Ross for control of Ewing Oil,"  Ashleys says sadly.  

"You don't sound too excited for me."

"Because I'm worried, Clay."

"Worried?  About the contest?"

 "Yes, about this stupid contest, and about you,"  Ashley says.  "Clay, you know John Ross well enough to know that he doesn't play fair.  He'll do anything to beat you and win Ewing Oil."

"Uncle Bobby set up some rules for this contest.  Everything is to be done out in the open, and fairly."

"Since when does John Ross care about rules?  Seriously, Clay, watch out for him.  John Ross is a snake, and I don't wanna see you get hurt."

"I appreciate the concern, but, I can handle John Ross,"  Clay says.  "I can be just as cunning as he can.  And like you said, I know John Ross pretty well by now.  I'll be ready for whatever crap he tries to pull on me."

"I hope so.  Just keep your eyes open.  I have enough to worry about right now without having to worry about my big brother."

"Can I ask a question?"  

"Sure,"  Ashley replies.

"You and Conner Ewing.  Is that really over?"

"Of course it's over.  It has to be over."

"Because you want it to be?"  Clay asks.  "Or because you're feeling guilty about Dylan?"

"Yes, I feel guilty about Dylan.  How could I not?  Dylan loved me and I hurt him.  I hurt him so bad, Clay.  And now I may never get a chance to tell him how sorry I am."

"Ash, are you in love with Conner?"

"We'd better eat this breakfast you fixed before it gets cold,"  Ashley says, attempting to change the subject.  

"First, answer the question.  Are you in love with Conner Ewing?"

"What difference does it make?"

"It makes a lot of difference,"  Clay says.  "If Conner is the one you love then, it's not fair to you or to him for you to push him away out of guilt.  Ash, no one can help who they fall in love with.  If you're lucky enough to find love in this world, you can't throw it away.  If you do, you may end up regretting it for the rest of your life.  Just think about that.  Well, enjoy your breakfast.  I have to get ready to get to the office.  Got a big day ahead."  Clay gets up from the table, kisses Ashley on the head, and leaves.  

Ashley closes her eyes as she ponders what Clay has just said to her about love.

Meanwhile.....Southfork....

"Good,"  Lucas says.  I'm really glad to see the two of you getting along so well lately, and I appreciate you spending time with him.  It's been kinda hard on Michael since Jacob moved out with Courtney, so I'm glad he has you."

Alex smiles.  "Michael's a good kid.  It's kinda funny, y'know.  I use to think of him as just this snot nosed little kid who I was sometimes stuck with taking places with me, but, he's grown up a lot.  Hangin' out with him now is almost like hanging' out with someone my own age.."  The smile fades from Alex's face and is replaced by a sad look.  

"Alex, you okay?"  Lucas asks.

"Yeah, I was just thinking about something."

"Alex, listen, I've been wanting to talk to you.  I've been worried about you.  With everything that happened with Shawn Smith......."

"Lucas, please, I don't wanna talk about him,"  Alex says.  "Or about what happened."

"Alex, I think you need to talk about it.  Michael says he hears you up sometimes in the middle of the night, and that he's heard you cry out in your sleep.  It's obvious to me you haven't been sleeping well, because you always have dark circles under your eyes."

"I'm fine, okay,"  Alex snaps.  "Look, Lucas, I appreciate your concern, but I'm getting really sick of everybody around here asking me every day if I'm okay, or telling me I need to talk about Shawn and about what happened in New Mexico.  Well, I don't wanna talk about it, not now, not EVER."

"Alex, we only ask if you're okay because we all care about you,"  says Lucas.

"And I appreciate that.  But just get off my back, okay,"  Alex angrily says, then walks past Lucas and heads for the house.  

Ewing Oil....later....

 Clay's secretary, Sally, buzzes his office.  "Clay, Holly Harwood is here to see you."

"Thank you, Sally. Please show Ms. Harwood in."  Smiling, Clay stands from his seat at his desk and walks to the door to greet his guest. 

A moment later, Sally enters the office, followed by Holly.  "Can I get you anything, Ms. Harwood?"  Sally asks.

"No, thanks sweety, I'm fine,"  Holly replies.  

"Well, if you need anything, just yell."

"I will, thanks."

"Thank you, Sally,"  Clay says as the secretary leaves.  "Ms. Harwood, please, have a seat."

"Thank you,"  Holly says, taking a seat across from Clay's desk.  

"Ms. Harwood, I have to admit that I was a little surprised when I got your call," Clay says.  "I thought your son, Brandon, was president of Harwood Oil."

"Brandon still IS the president, but my son needed some time away, so he's taking a little vacation for a couple of months.  In the meantime, I'll be filling in for him at Harwood."

"I see"

"Mr. Beaumont, I......"

"Please.......call me Clay."

Holly smiles.  "Alright, Clay.  I was surprised to get YOUR call, as well.  You said that you have a proposition you think Harwood might be interested in?"

"That's right.  I understand that Harwood Oil has been looking for a partner to go in with you on a Canadian deal."

"Yes, we have,"  Holly says.  "It's a deal that my son was looking into when he decided to go on sabbatical.  I've been attempting to find a suitable partner myself."

"And you've already approached Lee Energies, Ellis Oil, and a couple other smaller independents.," Clay says.

"My, you HAVE done your homework."

"I always make it a point to do my homework, Ms. Harwood."

"You remind me very much of your grandfather.  Handsome, charming, and very thorough when it comes to business."

"Well, I take that as a compliment,"  says Clay.  "Ms. Harwood, I'm very interested in partnering Ewing Oil with your company on this Canadian deal."

"Clay, rumor has it that Bobby is retiring as president of Ewing Oil, and that he's temporarily split the company in half between you and John Ross, to determine which of you is the more capable of running it.  Now is that true, or is it just a rumor?"

"It's true, Ms. Harwood.  John Ross and I are in competition to become permanent president and CEO of Ewing Oil,"  says Clay.

Holly sighs.  "I don't believe it.  I simply DON'T believe it.  This is like a bad case of deja vu."

"I'm afraid I don't understand."

"This company was split up once before, very much like this, by Jock Ewing, who pitted his sons J.R. and Bobby against each other in a bitterly fought contest to see which of them was best suited to inherit the company.  After all the pain and destruction that war caused, I'm absolutely shocked that Bobby would do such a thing."

"I've heard the horror stories of what happened back then between my grandfather and Uncle Bobby, and all the problems their fight caused not only the family, but others as well, and I assure you that things are very different this time."

"Well, I'm very sorry, Clay,"  Holly says, standing from her seat.  "But I'm not interested in being Ewing Oil's partner in this Canadian deal.......or any other deal, thank you."

"But, Ms. Harwood, you haven't even heard my proposal."

"I don't have to hear your proposal.  I was one of those who was hurt by the battle between Bobby and J.R. way back then.  I and my company were part of J.R. Ewing's collateral damage, so I'd be a damned fool to get into business with J.R.'s grandson, especially now, when history is repeating itself with yet another battle for control of Ewing Oil.  Thanks, but......no thanks."

"Ms. Harwood, I can PROMISE you, that you will not be hurt by this contest between myself and John Ross.  I'm offering you a straight deal.  My half of Ewing Oil will buy half of the leases on that Canadian field, and Ewing and Harwood will be partners.  I've checked this deal out very thoroughly, and it will mean a lot of money for both of our companies.  You also have a deadline.  Linc Thorwald wants to sell those leases by the 22nd, which is just over a week away, and you're having trouble finding a partner."

"I'll find a partner, Clay,"  Holly says.

"But in time?  Before Thorwald's deadline of the 22nd?  Can you really afford to take a chance on losing out on this deal because you had a bad experience with my grandfather almost 40 years ago?"

Holly looks at him.  "You're a very persuasive young man, Clay.  Just like J.R."

Clay smiles.  "Well, thank you."

"I didn't mean that as a compliment."

"Does this mean that you will take me up on my offer?"

"I'll have to think about it,"  Holly says.  

"Okay, but, I was up all night last night writing up this proposal,"  Clay says.  He picks up a folder from his desk and hands it to Holly.

She takes the folder, opens it, and looks at the papers inside.  "This is a very impressive offer."

 "One that I hope you'll accept,"  says Clay.  

"Just give me a couple days to think about this."

"Alright, take all the time you need, but remember Thorwald's deadline."

Holly walks to the door and starts to leave.  She pauses and turns back to Clay.  "I must be out of mind to even consider any proposal made to me by J.R. Ewing's grandson.  But like I said, you ARE very persuasive.  I'll call you in a couple of days with my answer."

"I'll look forward to hearing from you,"  Clay says, and Holly leaves.  

As Holly is heading for the elevator, John Ross comes out of his office and sees her, to his surprise.  After Holly gets onto the elevator and the doors close, John Ross goes over to Sly's desk.  "What was Holly Harwood doin' here?"

"She had a meeting with Clay,"  Sly says.

Curious, John Ross walks to Clay's office door and knocks, then walks in without waiting for Clay to tell him to come in.  "What the hell was Holly Harwood doin' here?"  He asks.

Clay watches him with a smile as John Ross leaves the office in a huff.  

The Cattlemen's Club....evening....

 Clay and Alex are having dinner with Michelle and Bridget at The Cattlemen's Club that evening.  the four young people are laughing at a joke Clay has just told, and enjoying a pleasant dinner, and each others' company.  

"And now, I wanna propose a toast,"  Michelle McKinnon says.  

"A toast?  To what?"  Clay asks.

"To you.  To Clayton James Beaumont, the next president of Ewing Oil,"  Michelle says with a smile.

Clay clears his throat as he looks across the table at his cousin Alex.  

"Michelle, really,"  Bridget says.

Michelle looks at Alex, suddenly realizing her mistake.  "Ooops, sorry, Alex.  I forgot that Clay was in competition with John Ross for that job."

"It's fine, really."

"Alex, I hope there's no hard feelings, because John Ross and I are goin' up against each other for the presidency of Ewing Oil,"  says Clay.

"Really think you're gonna be able to do that?"  Michelle asks.  "This fight could get pretty ugly, and I think it'll be practically impossible for you to keep from taking sides."

"Michelle, why don't you just be quiet?"  Bridget says to her sister.

"Look, I think we should just change the subject," says Clay.

"I think so, too,"  Bridget agrees.  "After working there all day, I'm sure the last thing Clay wants to talk about after hours is Ewing Oil."

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

"Well, before we change the subject, I think we should have that toast,"  Alex says, raising his glass.  "Here's to Ewing Oil, and may the best man for the job win."

"Here, here,"  Bridget says, the four clinking their glasses together.  

 "Sure couldn't ask for a fairer toast than that,"  Clay says with a smile.  

"No, you couldn't,"  says Michelle.  Looking over Alex and Bridget's shoulders, the smile suddenly disappears from Michelle's face as he mouth falls open in shock.  "Oh my God,"  she says.

"Michelle, what is it?"  Bridget asks.

"Honey, what's wrong?"  Asks Clay.

"That guy over there, two tables over.  He looks so much like.......like Shawn."

Clay and Bridget look in the direction of the table which Michelle had indicated.  Alex is reluctant to look at first, but his curiosity gets the better of him, and he turns around in his seat and looks, and 

indeed, there is a young man, a boy who looks to be about 17, sitting two tables over from them, who looks hauntingly like Shawn.  The boy is having dinner with two adults, a man and a woman, who are likely his parents, and a younger boy of about 13.  Alex's mouth falls open in shock.

"I don't think he looks that much like Shawn,"  Clay says.  

"Of course he does," says Michelle.

"That kid's a lot younger than Shawn.  Plus he's wearing glasses."

"So?  Look at his face.  I dated Shawn, I remember every inch of his face."

As Alex continues to look at the boy, his mind is transported back to that day on the cliff in New  Mexico, and the images of Shawn hanging over the side of the cliff just before he fell.  He can even hear Shawn speaking to him.  Looking at the boy, Alex is suddenly horrified when the young man looks over at him and, in Alex's

mind, his face suddenly meta- morphosizes into Shawn's face.  Alex's heart begins to pound with fear and he breaks out into a cold sweat seeing Shawn's face staring at him.  So unnerved is he that he accidentally knocks over his glass of wine, spilling it on the table.  

"Oh my God,"  Bridget says, grabbing napkins to clean up the mess.  "Alex are you okay?"

"Damn, you're sweating like crazy,"  says Clay.

"Alex,"  Bridget says, gently touching his face.

Alex sees the boy get up from his table and walk out of the restaurant and into the front lobby.  "Excuse me," he says.  "I'll be back in a minute."  Alex quickly gets from the table.

"Hey, where are you going?"  Clay asks, but Alex ignores him and follows the boy out.  In the lobby outside of the restaurant, the boy is heading to the men's room when Alex catches up to him.  "Excuse me,"  Alex says, but the boy keeps walking.  "Excuse me?"

 Back at Southfork, John Ross is getting undressed for bed later that night, while Krystina is on the phone talking to her mother.  "Oh, Mom, you wouldn't recognize Ellie now.  She's growing a little more every day,"  Krystina says.  "I can't wait for you to see her.  Mom that would be great.  Of course.  Oh, I love you, too.  And I can't wait to see you.  Yes, I'll give Ellie a big hug and a kiss for you.  John Ross, too.  And you tell Danny that I'm thrilled to death for him, and I can't wait for the wedding.  Okay, Mom.  Give everyone my love.  Bye."  Krystina ends the call and puts her phone down on the table next to the bed.  She smiles.  

"How's your Mama doin'?"  John Ross asks.

"She's great.  She's coming for a visit soon, probably in another week or two."

"That's good, I know how much you've missed her."

"She gave me some good news,"  Krystina says.  "My nephew Danny, you know, Steven's son, is getting married."

"Well, that's great news.  He gonna ,marry that girl....what's her name?  Angela?"

"Yes, Angela St. James."

"Michael Channing's cousin," John Ross says.

"That's right.  Small world, isn't it?"

"Damn sure is,"  John Ross says with a sigh.  

"John Ross, what's wrong?  You've been moody all evening.  What's bothering you?"

"Clay had a meetin' in the office today with Holly Harwood."

"Holly Harwood?  Wow, that's a strange coincidence, considering we just ran into her at dinner the other night."

"Yes it is.  Y'know, I keep thinkin' about that guy Holly was with the other night, that........Craig Forrester.  Can't put my finger on what it is, but there's somethin' about that guy I don't like.  Somethin' I don't trust.  Just a strange feelin' I have.  He said he's involved in the oil business, but I sure as hell never heard of him."

"Do you think he has anything to do with Holly and Clay?"  Krystina asks.

"I don't know.  All I do know is, I don't trust Clay Beaumont.  He wants to be president of Ewing Oil almost as much as I do."

"I think it's a shame that Bobby has put you and Clay against each other like this.  The two of you were just starting to get along after you banded together to save Alex in New Mexico."

"Darlin', that was a temporary truce at best, for Alex's sake.  It never would've lasted.  I've gotta find out all I can about this Craig Forrester guy.  John Ross picks up his cell phone and dials a number.  He 

 waits for an answer, which comes after the third ring.  "Bum, John Ross here.  I need you to do some diggin' for me.  I need you to find out everything you can about a man named Craig Forrester.  That's C-R-A-IG, F-O-R-R-E-S-T-E-R.  No, I don't know where he's originally from, I just know he's not from Dallas.  And he's an associate of Holly Harwood's.  I know it's not much to go on, but I need this information as soon as possible.  Find out what you can.  Thanks, Bum.  I've got a bad feelin' that this Craig Forrester guy might end up bein' trouble."

Southfork....the next morning....

 As another day dawns at Southfork, Alex's sleep is once again restless, disturbed by horrible visions of Shawn falling from the cliff.  In his sleep, he also sees the face of the boy he had seen at The Cattlemen's Club the night before......the boy who bore such an eerie resemblance to Shawn, right down to wearing the same type of jacket Shawn use to have and wear during their school days.  Alex awakens with a fright, as he has done so many mornings since his traumatic experience with Shawn in New Mexico.  As usual, his clothes and bedsheets are drenched in sweat.  He sits up in bed, buries his face in his hands and begins to weep.  "I can't go on like this,"  he says to himself.  "Damn you, Shawn.  Damn you for what you did to me, and to everyone else who ever cared about you.  Damn you for not just going away and leaving me the hell alone, even after you're dead."  Alex wipes his tears with his hand.  Then his eyes fall on his desk, and the business card Tyler's brother Ryan had given him with the name of the therapist Ryan had been seeing.  Alex picks the card up and looks at it.  He then picks up his cell phone and looks at the time.  7:45 A.M.  No one would be in the therapist's office this early, he thinks to himself as he seriously contemplates calling.  He puts the card and his phone down on the table next to the bed, then stands to his feet.  He pauses, then picks up the card again, looking at the therapist's name and number.

Later....

Alex picks up his phone and dials the number on the card half an hour later.  After the second ring, a woman answers.  "Hello, umm, I'd like to make an appointment with the doctor.  Yeah, my name is Alexander Ewing.  Yes, Ewing, E-W-I-N-G.  November 26, 1999.  Umm, as soon as possible.  Today, if you have an opening.  2 o'clock?  Yes, ma'am, that'll be fine.  Thank you."  Alex ends the call and tosses his phone onto his bed.  He sighs deeply and takes a seat on the bed.

Harwood Oil....later....

 Holly is working at her desk later that morning when her secretary buzzes her office.  "Yes, Debbie?"

"Miss Harwood, Craig Forrester is here."

Holly smiles.  "Thank you.  Please send Mr. Forrester in."  Holly leans back in her chair.  A moment later, Craig walks in.  

"Holly,"  he says.

"Craig."

"I've been giving some thought to this deal the Beaumont kid wants to go in on with Harwood.  And I think you should do it."

"I told the kid I'd think about it, but Ewing Oil is the last company in the world I'd wanna be in bed with.  I've been down that road before, and I have no desire to go down it again."

"I'm telling you, with this Canadian deal, you can't go wrong,"  says Craig.  "Look, Holly, you hired me as an assistant and an advisor.  So what's the point of having me around if you aren't going to take my advice?  Harwood Oil can't afford to pass up this opportunity to buy into those Canadian leases, and you can't afford to go it alone.  You have to have a  partner, and you've already approached every other company in the Cartel, and none of them are financially able to buy the other half of the leases.  But Ewing Oil can."

"You REALLY think this can be good for Harwood?"  Holly asks.

"Oh, yes.  Very good."

"Alright.  I'll let the Beaumont kid stew for a couple more days, and then I'll call him and accept his offer to be my partner on those leases."

"You've made the right decision, Holly,"  Craig says, smiling deviously.  It's very obvious that Craig Forrester has plans of his own for both Ewing Oil and Harwood.

An apartment in Dallas....later....

 The doors of an elevator open into a long hallway in a building in downtown Dallas.  Craig Forrester steps off the elevator and makes his way down the long hallway to a door.  He opens the door and walks into an elegantly furnished apartment.  He approaches a man sitting in a large chair facing the windows, his back to Craig.  "Well, our plan is set in motion,"  Craig says.  "Holly Harwood took my advice, and she's going into this Canadian oil deal with Clay Beaumont."

"And you're sure you can pull this off?"  The other man asks.

"I'm very sure.  Brad Barnes disappointed me when he wasn't able to convince his sister to let me fill in for her at Westar.  If I'd had that kind of power, I could've crushed Ewing Oil in one swift blow.  But, doing it this way, bit by bit, the Ewings will be just as destroyed either way.  It'll just take a little longer."

"I don't care how you do it, Forrester," the other man says.  "Just as long as we get our hands on that land the Ewings own in Cherokee County.  That's what matters most to me."

"Don't worry, I'll get it done.  But you just remember to hold up your end of our bargain.  Once we get that land away from the Ewings, half of it's MINE.  And upon your death, I inherit the other half in your will."

The man slowly turns around in his chair to face Craig, and his identity is revealed to be Jeremy Wendell!  "Oh, absolutely,"  Jeremy says.  "Just don't entertain the idea of double crossing me, Forrester.  That would be a fatal mistake."

Craig laughs slightly.  "Are you threatening me, Jeremy?  That's funny.  That's REALLY funny.  You don't scare me, old man.  You may still have a large block of stock in Westar, but other than that, you don't have the kind of power and reach you once had.  Especially now that that psychotic grandson of yours is no longer at the helm at Westar.  Because I can guarantee you're not going to be able to control Pamela Ewing and her husband Justin the way you did that nutty kid.  So you shouldn't be threatening me because you need me.  You could never pull this off by yourself."

"And neither could you,"  Jeremy says.  "You were a nobody when I found you and proposed this scheme to you to get back at the Ewings for what they've done to me, and for taking what rightfully belongs to you and your family."

"And now that I am in the position I'm in, I don't need you, Jeremy,"  Craig says as he goes to the bar across the room and pours himself a glass of bourbon.  "I can do this alone now.  But can you?"

"You'd never be able to do a damned thing if I expose to the Ewings, and to Holly Harwood who you really are.  So we need each other.  Something you'd do well to remember."

"Whatever you say, Jeremy,"  Craig says with a sinister smile.  He takes a sip of his bourbon.

A medical building in Dallas....afternoon....

 Alex hands the receptionist the paper work he has just filled out in the waiting room at the therapist's office for his appointment that afternoon. "Here you go,"  he tells the young woman as he gives her the clipboard with the papers containing his information. 

"Thank you, now I just need a copy of your insurance card,"  the woman says.

"Oh, yes."  Alex takes out his wallet, opens it, and pulls out his insurance card, which he hands to the woman.  

"Thank you, Mr. Ewing, now if you'll just have a seat, the doctor will be with you shortly, and you can pick your card up on the way out."

"Thanks,"  Alex says.  He goes over and takes a seat on a sofa in the comfortably furnished waiting room.  Five minutes go by, then ten.  He is fidgeting restlessly in his seat, nervous about discussing what had happened to him in New Mexico with a complete stranger.  He looks at his watch.  3 minutes past 2.  He again starts moving around in his seat restlessly.  

Finally, a woman comes to the door.  "Alexander Ewing?"

"Yes,"  Alex says, quickly getting to his feet.  

"The doctor will see you now."

"Okay......thanks."  Alex follows the woman through a door and down a long hallway.  "It was pretty quiet out there,"  he says.  "I kinda expected this office to be packed."

"It's usually pretty quiet right after lunch,"  the woman says.  "We had a cancellation at 2, that's how we were able to work you into the doctor's schedule."

"Oh, great,"  Alex says, following the woman into an office, furnished with three chairs, a filing cabinet, a fully stocked bookshelf, a sofa.  And, directly across the room from the door, a large oak desk, a man sitting in a chair behind the desk, obviously the doctor.  

"Alexander Ewing?"  The man asks.

"Yes."

"Please, come in and have a seat."

Alex nods, The woman leaves, closing the door behind her.  Nervously, Alex walks over to the sofa and takes a seat.  

"Do you prefer being called Alexander, or Alex?"  The doctor asks.

"Ummm, Alex."

"Fine, Alex.  Alex Ewing.  Are you by any chance related to the Ewings of Ewing Oil?"

"Yes, sir, I am.  My great-grandfather started the company, and my father, John Ross Ewing, is president of Ewing Oil now."

"John Ross Ewing?"  The doctor asks.  "John Ross Ewing is your father?"

"Yes, that's right,"  doctor.

"Well, now that I know what to call you, you can call me either Dr. Richards.......or by my first name, Peter.  I sometimes find that being on a first name basis puts my clients more at ease," says the therapist, who is none other than the same Peter Richards who had been John Ross's camp counselor........and Sue Ellen's lover, many years earlier!

END OF EPISODE 236....