A cafe in Knots Landing....morning
"And when my cousin Christopher was visiting here from Dallas a while back, I asked him about going into business with me, setting up our own record label," Bobby says. "He seemed interested, and now I just have to wait for him to make up his mind and get back to me."
Meg smiles. "Bobby, that's wonderful. Looks like a lot of good things are happening. For both of us."
"Not only are good things happening FOR both of us, Meg. but good things are also happening between us. Since you came home, I've been happier than I've been at any time since you went away to law school."
"Yeah, but not exactly where left off," Bobby says. "Meg, you've been home a couple weeks now. I'd really like for our relationship to move on to the next level. Make it official."
"Bobby, we've talked about this. And you know how I feel. I love you, but I don't wanna rush into anything. I still need some time."
"Meg, does this have anything to do with that guy you were telling me about? The one you met at school?" Bobby asks.
"A little. I wasn't in love with him the way I am with you. But, I was lonely, and still hurt from our breakup. I thought I was in love. And I got hurt, again. I'm just a little......weary.......when it comes to getting involved too fast again."
"Meg, it's not like we just met and we're on the rebound. We had a good relationship. We had something real."
"Yes, we did," Meg says. "We had a very good relationship that ended very badly. Bobby, we both carried the hurt of our breakup around with us for five years. We have all the time in the world. We're both young, and I'm not going anywhere. So why do we have to rush things?"
Bobby looks at her and smiles. "We don't. I guess I'm just impatient because I'm so much in love with you."
Meg looks at her watch. "I really have to get to the office. Thanks for breakfast." Meg and Bobby both stand from their seats.
"You're welcome," Bobby says, leaning over the table to kiss her. "How about I come down and take you to lunch?"
"I can't do lunch today. I have a meeting with a client. But, how about dinner?"
Bobby smiles. "Dinner is nice. But, instead of going out to a crowded restaurant, why don't we pick something up, maybe some Chinese, and take it down to the beach and have a little night picnic?"
"I love that idea," Meg says with a smile. "I'll see you this evening."
"Have a great day. I love you," Bobby says, kissing her again.
"I love you too. Bye." Smiling, Meg grabs her purse and hurries away.
Meanwhile....on Seaview Circle
"Hi, Karen. Bye, Karen," Gary says, hurrying past her.
"Where are you off to in such a hurry?" Karen asks.
"I have a meeting downtown. Val will tell you all about it."
Karen smiles. "Okay. Bye," she says, waving as Gary gets into his truck and drives off. She walks into the house. "Val?" She calls.
"I'm in here," Val says from the kitchen.
Karen walks in and finds Val cleaning out one of her kitchen cabinets. "Where's Gary off to in such a hurry? He said you'd tell me all about it."
"Yeah," Val says, a hint of sadness in her tone.
"Val, what's wrong?" Karen asks.
Val sighs. "Gary's going downtown to meet with a man. Harold McCain."
"McCain Real Estate?"
"Mmmhmm."
"Well, why is Gary meeting with a real estate agent?" Karen asks. "You guys aren't thinking of moving, are you?" Karen takes a seat at the table.
"No, of course not. I don't think we'd EVER move away from this cul-de-sac. But, Gary heard that McCain Real Estate is for sale. You know he knows Harold McCain pretty well, and they've played golf together a lot. Gary is meeting with Harold about buying his real estate company."
"Well, Val, I think that's great. Why do you look so down about it?"
"I can't help but remember the last couple times Gary tried to go into business for himself. Didn't work out so well. The last time, two years ago, nearly broke up our marriage and drove Gary back to the bottle after all those years of sobriety."
"Honey, that's completely different," says Karen. "The last time, and the time before that Gary went into business for himself, he started a company from scratch, and just had some bad luck. McCain Real Estate is a company that's already established and, even with the economy the way it's been the last several years, from what I hear, they've still done very well."
"And you're just afraid the other shoe is gonna drop," Karen says.
"Yeah. Is that stupid, or what?"
"No. I don't think it's stupid at all, especially considering everything you and Gary have been through."
Val walks over and takes a seat at the table across from her. "Karen, I just......it's like you said, Gary and I have been through so much, both together and apart. Two and a half years ago, when his business went under and he started drinking again, I just couldn't take it. That's why I left him. I thought for sure that our marriage was over for good that time."
"Yet you still followed him to Dallas and worked things out," Karen says.
"Yeah, we did. Then we came back home, and since then, things have been better than they've ever been. I guess I just thought that, at this stage of our lives, I mean, having three adult kids and now being grandparents, I thought the rocky times were behind us and we'd be spending our golden years without any complications or drama, just.......enjoying our family. Our beautiful grandchildren."
"Oh, Val, just because Gary's thinking about buying McCain Real Estate, doesn't mean that you and he are in for more rocky times. Listen, you have to have faith in your husband. Now, granted, I realize that Gary hasn't had the best track record when it came to business. But I honestly don't think this is anything to worry about. McCain Real Estate is pretty solid. Or is it that you think if Gary gets his hands on it, it's doomed to fail?"
"I don't think that makes you a horrible person at all. A little overly cautious, and maybe a little scared. But not horrible. Val, if Gary does go into this venture, he's gonna need your support. And he's gonna need your belief in him to pull it off."
Val stands from the table, walks to the counter, then turns back to Karen. "The thing that bothers me the most about this, Karen, is that he didn't even tell me about it until we were in bed last night, after he'd already set up that meeting with Harold for this morning. Lately, Gary doesn't talk to me before making any important decisions that could affect or change our lives. Same when he made the decision that he wanted Molly to know the truth that he's her father. And that's what worried me the most."
MacKenzie & Associates....
"Morning, Sandy. Any calls for me, yet?"
"No, but you have a client waiting in your office."
"A client? Peter and Janice Noone? I wasn't supposed to meet with them until lunch."
"No, it isn't the Noones," Sandy replies. "He says he's hoping you'll take his case."
"Oh. Thanks," Meg says. "I guess I'll go see what this is all about." Meg walks into her office. "Hello," she says as she enters the office. She stops short when she sees the young man sitting on the sofa across from her desk.
"Brandon?" Meg asks, stunned to see him. "Oh my God. Brandon, what are you doing here?"
"I came to see you, Meg," Brandon replies, standing to face her.
"Well, I don't wanna see you. So you can just head on back to New Haven."
"Meg, I don't like the way things ended between us. And then you just left without saying so much as a word to me."
"What was I supposed to say?" Meg asks. "I thought you cared for me, Brandon. I thought maybe I'd found someone to mend my broken heart, and what happens? I find out I'm not the only girl in your stable and I end up with a broken heart all over again. So no, Brandon. I have NOTHING to say to you. And no, I don't wanna see you. So just go on back to New Haven and show up at the door of that other girl you were screwing around with while claiming you in love with me."
"Meg, I'm sorry," Brandon says. "Look, Ashley didn't mean a thing to me. It was just....."
"Oh, please don't say it was 'just sex.' I'm not interested in hearing it."
"Meg....."
"Brandon, leave," Meg says, opening her office door. "Now."
Brandon pauses a moment, then walks to the door. He stops in the doorway and looks at her. "I'm guessing since you've been back in Knots Landing, you've started seeing Bobby Ewing again."
"That's NONE of your business," Meg says.
"I hope Bobby Ewing knows what a lucky man he really is this time." Brandon looks at her for a second, then walks out. Meg slams the door shut after him.
The outskirts of Knots Landing
"When these houses are finished, we're gonna have a group of the most beautiful homes in this area, and four of them already have prospective buyers," Harold says.
"Sounds wonderful. I guess the economy really hasn't hurt McCain Real Estate," says Gary.
"It did for a couple years, but, since last year things have really been pickin' up. So, how 'bout it, Gary? You interested in buying me out?"
"It definitely is. I'm really gonna miss the company. I started it from scratch back in 1985, and built it into a huge success."
"Harold, if you don't mind me asking, why are you selling? It's obvious you love the business."
Harold sighs. "Because I have to. Gary, I may as well tell you. We've known one another a long time. A couple of months ago, I had some tests run. I found out I have cancer. I had surgery, and started radiation a couple weeks ago. They say my prognosis is about a 30% chance of remission. So, I wanna spend what time I have left with my wife. We plan to go to Florida and stay with our daughter and her family."
"My God, Harold. I'm sorry. I don't know what to say."
Gary looks around at the development, then looks at his friend. "Harold, let's do this. Ever since my own company went belly up, I've wanted something to leave behind to my son."
"Great. Thanks, Gary. Have you talked it over with Val?"
"I told her last night I was seriously considering it. I'm sure she'll be happy about it."
Harold smiles. "That's wonderful. Let's go back to my office and we can sign the paper work."
Greg Sumner's home....
"Kate," he says.
"Hello, Uncle Greg," Kate says, kissing him on the cheek.
"I could be better," Kate sadly replies.
"What's wrong?"
"I wanted to come out here and tell you myself before you found out some other way. I filed for divorce from Brian this morning."
"Really?" Greg asks. "I thought you two were happy."
"That's what we wanted everyone to think," Kate says. "So we kept up the charade for a long time."
"What happened?"
"We just drifted apart, Uncle Greg. Brian got so caught up in business and in building his empire that his family fell by the wayside."
"The business," Greg says. "The business I handed over to him when I retired."
"Look, Uncle Greg, I'm not blaming you. This just happened. And then, I fell in love with someone else."
"You fell in love with another man?"
"Yes. A man who loves me and makes me happy, and gives me the attention I was lacking from Brian."
Greg walks over and puts his arms around his niece. "Kate, I'm sorry about you and Brian. But, whatever you choose to do, you have my support."
"Thank you. That means a lot, especially since, except for my kids, you're the only family I have here. I've been thinking about divorce for quite a while. Brian moved out a couple weeks ago, but, after leaving that lawyer's office this morning, it just makes it all seem so final. I thought it would be easier than this."
"It's gonna be okay, babe," Greg says. "I bet I know one person who's not gonna shed any tears over this news."
"Oh yeah......Abby," Kate says, putting her head on Greg's shoulder. "I guess that's the one positive thing about this divorce. Not having Abby as a mother-in-law anymore."
Cunningham Enterprises
"Thank you," Abby says with a smile.
"You know, Mom, you don't have act so happy about mine and Kate's impending divorce."
"And what about your grandson, Mom?" Brian asks. "The separation is tearing Trevor apart. Least you could do is have a little sympathy for the one person this is hurting the most."
"You're......you're absolutely right," Abby says. "I'm very sorry for the sake of my grandson. How is Trevor, by the way?"
"Not good. He keeps hoping that some miracle will happen and Kate and I'll go back together. But, at this point, that's not gonna happen."
"Which is why you need a major distraction," Abby says.
"Like what?"
"Like business. I have a deal that I think you might be interested in."
"Okay, let's hear it," Brian says, taking a seat at his desk.
"A while back, I heard about a company called Harris Computers, it's a computer software company that also manufactures PCs for business and personal use. I think it would be a great acquisition for Cunningham Enterprises."
"Mom, we already own several small computer and software companies. Why do we need another?"
"Because, unlike the others, Harris Computers is a national chain. It serves areas not only on the West Coast, but as far away as New York, Atlanta, and Boston. I brought with me some information on them. It's in the folder on your desk."
"Hmmm," Brian says, opening the folder. He looks over the first of several pages contained in the folder. "I like what I see so far."
"Then, you're interested?" Abby asks.
"Mom, why didn't you tell me?"
"Tell you what?"
"It says here that Harris Computers use to be owned by Greg Sumner."
Abby smiles. "Well, I don't see why that matters. Greg sold the company before he disbanded the Sumner Group and turned this division over to you. The company made millions when Greg owned it."
"But it doesn't say who owns it now," Brian says.
"Oh? Well, I suppose the owner wants to keep a low profile for whatever reason," Abby says with a smile.
Knots Landing Beach.....that night
"I wish the stars were out tonight," Bobby says. "Remember how we use to come down here, lay on the beach at night, and watch the stars for hours? You me, Daniel, and Betsy."
"Uh-huh."
"Did you get enough to eat?"
"Not right now," Meg replies, apparently not paying attention to his question.
"Meg, what's going on?" Bobby asks.
"What?"
"I asked you what's going on. You've been so distracted all evening. What's bothering you?"
Meg sighs as she sits up. "Bobby, I'm sorry. I don't mean to be so distracted."
"When I got to the office this morning, Brandon was there," Meg says.
"Brandon? The guy you told me about? the one from school?"
"Yeah. Brandon Williams."
"What'd he want?" Bobby asks.
"Meg, you never told me much about your relationship with him," Bobby says. "All you said was, it wasn't very serious. But it must've been."
"Bobby, I'm sorry. But I lied to you," Meg says, causing a look of worry to cross Bobby's face. "There was more to my relationship with Brandon than I told you. After you and I broke up and I went off to Yale, I was hurt. Bobby, I was so deeply hurt by the way our relationship ended. My heart was broken. For almost two years I moped around. I had no social life, and very few friends. I concentrated on my studies, and my internship with the DA's office, and I didn't even want to think about going out with anyone. And then, I met Brandon. We had a class together, and we would sometimes study together. He was the most loving, and kind person I'd met since you. I was still very gun shy when it came to dating or relationships. But Brandon pulled me out of that. And I started to fall for him. Soon, we were a couple. But, in all the time we were together, my feelings for him never ran as deep as my feelings for you. Brandon and I dated for more than a year and a half."
"And what happened?" Bobby asks.
Meg looks at him for a moment before answering. "I found out that Brandon was cheating on me with a girl named Ashley Murray. I confronted her, and she said that Brandon had been sleeping with her for months, so it wasn't just a one time thing. Once again, my heart was broken. I ended things with him. Then, after graduation, I left and came home. I left Brandon and all those painful memories behind. I never dreamed he'd follow me here."
"How do you feel about him?"
"I told him to get lost," Meg says. "Bobby, I don't want anything to do with Brandon Williams ever again."
Bobby smiles. "Good. That's what I wanted to hear. Hopefully, the guy got the message, and left town."
"I wouldn't bet on that. Brandon is fairly persistent. But he's not gonna get anywhere. Not with me."
"If he bothers you again, tell me. I'll be glad to pay Mr. Brandon Williams a visit."
Gary and Val's house....the next morning
"Val, how long is this angry silent treatment gonna go on?" He asks. "Look, I know you're angry with me for buying Harold's company, but give me a break."
She stops fluffing the pillows and looks at him. "Gary I am angry with you because you didn't discuss this with me before you made the decision."
"I didn't discuss it with you because it had nothing to do with you. I bought this company for ME, so I'd have something of my own."
"Had nothing to do with me? Gary, you make a decision to go buy a real estate company and you say it had nothing to do with me? I suppose deciding that you wanted to tell Molly that you're her father also had nothing to do with me."
"Well, I didn't tell Molly," Gary says. "I never even discussed it with Brian and Kate, so that should've made you happy."
"You didn't bring it up to them only because they're having marital problems," Val says. "Gary, don't you see why I'm angry? You don't discuss things with me anymore. You just go ahead and decide to do them, no matter how much it may affect our lives or our family."
"What do you mean?" Val asks.
"You're afraid I can't handle it, aren't you?" Gary asks. "You think I'm gonna go belly up and start drinking again like I did last time."
"I never said that."
"You don't have to say it. I can see it in your eyes and hear it in your voice. Damn it, Val, I know I've made some mistakes in the past when it comes to both business and personal decisions. But I've learned from them. I can't be a loser my whole life. McCain Real Estate is as solid a company as they come. I don't think there's much chance that even I can run this one into the ground." Without another word to his wife, Gary angrily walks out of the room, leaving Val worried that he is once again getting in over his head.
Los Angeles County Courthouse....
"Well, fancy meeting you here," he says.
"Now what makes you think that? I'm a lawyer, and this is a law library. I needed to do some legal research."
"You needed to do some legal research at this particular law library, which just happens to be three thousand miles from your home?"
"Do you know how sick that is?" Meg asks. "Why are you even still in town? I told you yesterday to go back to New Haven and leave me alone."
"I can't do that, Meg. not until we talk."
Meg stands from her seat. "Brandon, I already made it clear that as far as I'm concerned, we have NOTHING to talk about."
"I think we do. I flew all the way out here to L.A. just to see you. Can't you at least give me five minutes?"
"Okay, fine. Say what you have to say and leave."
"Meg, I know I hurt you. I have no excuse for that. But I do love you and I can't let things just end between us like this without even trying to make it up to you."
"Brandon, get this through that thick head of yours......things HAVE ended between us. It's over."
"Meg, we were together for close to two years. You can't tell me that you don't still have some kind of feelings for me. Because I sure as hell do still have feelings for you."
"Oh, I have feelings for you, alright," Meg says. "Feelings of disgust. You wanna know how I really feel? I can't stand the sight of you, Brandon."
"You can just throw away what we had over a stupid mistake I made, but you can forgive Bobby Ewing for any and everything you went through with him?"
Meg walks over to him. "Bobby and I had our problems. We had a painful breakup. Bobby made a mistake. YOU didn't. A mistake is a one night stand because you're lonely or frustrated, or on the rebound. Sleeping with someone repeatedly for four months while you're in a relationship with someone else isn't a mistake......it's a conscious choice. Do us both a favor, Brandon. Go back to New Haven and get on with your life. Because I'm sure as hell getting on with mine WITHOUT you!" Meg slams her books shut, picks up her purse, and walks out.
Brandon sighs. "Damn it, Meg. I love you," he says quietly after she leaves. "I can't just lose you like this. Especially not to Bobby Ewing."
A French Restaurant in Knots Landing....afternoon
"Harold, I really wanna thank you for taking my offer on McCain Real Estate," Gary says.
"It's no problem, Gary. Money isn't the important thing to me. It's knowing that my company is gonna be in good hands with you. And, if you have any problems or questions, you know how to reach me in Florida."
"Yes, I do. I sure hate to see ya go. I'm gonna miss our weekly golf games. I was just gettin' good."
Harold laughs. "Well, I'm sure you'll find someone else willing to play a round or two with ya. Gary, I really have to be going. I have a one-thirty doctor's appointment."
"Harold, thanks again. For everything."
"Gary, you take care, my friend."
"I will. Keep in touch," Gary says, shaking Harold's hand.
"Sure will. Bye." Harold smiles, then gets up and walks away.
Meanwhile, Abby walks into the restaurant. She is greeted at the door by the hostess, who grabs a menu and begins leading Abby to her table. Abby spots Gary and walks over to him.
"Well, well. Gary," she says.
"Hello, Abby."
"I must say I'm surprised to see you here. Fine dining was never one of your great interests. You always preferred the local hamburger joint."
"I had a business lunch," Gary says.
"Oh? What sort of business, if you don't mind me asking."
Gary smiles. "I was meeting with my friend, Harold McCain. McCain Real Estate. We just closed the deal for me to buy his company."
"That's right," says Gary. "The real estate business has picked back up in the last couple years, and I think I can do very well with this company."
Abby smiles. "Well, best of luck, Gary. If you ever need any.....business advice......feel free to ask. After all, when we were married I handled all of our business ventures."
"Yes, and I remember just how 'well' you handled all my business, too. Almost got us both killed a couple times because you got us into bed with gangsters. Thanks, Abby, but no thanks. I'll handle my own affairs this time."
"Suit yourself," says Abby. "Good luck, anyway. You're gonna need it." Abby smiles at him again, then walks away as Gary shakes his head
A shopping mall in Knots Landing....
"Val," she says.
"Oh, hey, Karen."
"I'm glad I ran into you. I was gonna come over to the house later. Listen, we're having a little get together at our house on Saturday night. Just a little backyard barbecue with all the neighbors and a few friends."
"Oh, well that sounds nice," Val says.
"Yeah, it's been a while since we've all gotten together for a cook out. And, I was kinda hoping maybe it would cheer Michael up. He's been pretty down in the dumps ever since Angela left, that, on top of being out of work."
"He hasn't had any luck finding a job yet, huh?"
"No," Karen says. "But, there has to be something out there for him. If only he'd swallow his pride and ask Brian for a job. If I hadn't promised myself I wouldn't meddle, I'd talk to Brian for him. Oh, by the way, what's the status on Gary's new......venture?"
Val sighs. "He went ahead with it. He bought McCain Real Estate. He was meeting with Harold again today at lunch."
"I see. And you're not happy about it at all, I see."
"Gary said something to me this morning. He said that he can see it in my eyes that I think he's gonna go belly up and start drinking again."
Val looks at her. "Yeah, maybe. Karen, maybe I'm wrong. But I just don't want Gary getting hurt again. And I don't wanna be hurt again. I have known Gary for most of my life, and you've known him long enough to know that he has no head for business."
"It'll be okay," says Karen. "If he has the support of his wife, and his friends, it'll be okay."
"I hope you're right," Val says.
"I usually am, aren't I?" Karen asks with a smile, and both women burst out laughing.
"Karen, I do love you. You always did know how to make me laugh, no matter what."
"So can I count on the Ewings for Saturday night?"
"Of course. And I'd be glad to help."
"I was hoping you'd say that."
Seaview Circle.....that evening
Meg's car drives into the cul-de-sac and pulls into the MacKenzie driveway. Bobby watches as Meg gets out of the car. Seeing that she looks upset, he tosses the basketball to Michael. "Hey, you guys go ahead without me," he says. He jogs over to Meg. "Hey. You okay?"
"I'm fine. It's just been a rough day."
"Work? Or did you hear from Brandon again?"
Meg sighs. "Yeah. I did."
"What happened?" Bobby asks, trying hard to control his anger.
"I had to do some research on a case, so I went to the law library at the courthouse. Brandon showed up there."
"He followed me from my office," Meg replies.
"He......the guy FOLLOWED you? Okay this has gone far enough. It's one thing to show up unannounced at your office, but it's another thing entirely to stalk to. I'm gonna go have a talk with this Brandon Williams guy."
"Bobby, no. Don't."
"Why not, Meg? If the guy is following you now....."
"I told him again to just go back to New Haven and get on with his life. Hopefully this time he'll listen."
"He didn't when you told him that yesterday," says Bobby. "I think I need to have a talk with him and make it clear that he's worn out his welcome."
"It's best if we just leave it alone. At least for now. But if he bothers me again, you can talk to him."
"You wanna go for a walk?" Bobby asks.
"Thanks, but, I'm really exhausted tonight, and I have to be in court early in the morning. So, I'm just gonna eat a bite, take a shower and go to bed early tonight."
"Okay. If you can't sleep, call me."
"I will," Meg says. She kisses him, then Bobby watches her with concern as she proceeds up the walk way and into the house. Bobby knows what he has to do.
Later....
"Jake, hey, man, this is Bobby Ewing. Listen, I need a favor. I need for you to find someone who arrived in town either yesterday or the day before. He's from New Haven, Connecticut. The guy's name is Brandon Williams. I need you to find out for me where he's staying." Bobby listens for a moment as his friend talks. "No, I have no idea. He could be staying here in Knots Landing, or anywhere in the greater L.A. area. But check hotels and motels in Knots Landing first. And Jake, I'd really appreciate it if you'd hurry on this. I need that info ASAP. Thanks. Get back to me as soon as you can. Bye." Bobby ends the call and tosses his phone onto the bed, an angry
"No. You?"
"Nope," Gary says. "Val, I hate what's been going on between us lately. This silence. The anger."
"I hate it, too," Val says.
"Then let's do something about it. Look, honey, I know you have a lot of reservations about my buying McCain Real Estate. And, I also realize that my track record hasn't been that great. But Val, I can't just sit around for the rest of my life letting the world pass me by, afraid to take a chance on anything because I might fail. Failure is just a part of life, honey."
"But you didn't handle the last failure very well, Gary," says Val. "You started drinking again after all these years, and it almost cost us our marriage."
"I know that. But that's NOT gonna happen again. Val, I learned a lot from that experience. I almost lost the most important thing in the world to me, and that's my family. You. And I would never do anything to put that in jeopardy again."
"But Gary, don't you see? That's exactly what you've done by making these important decisions without discussing them with me. First, you decided you wanted to tell Molly the truth without discussing it with me, and then, you decided to buy this company without so much as a word to me until the night before. Gary, a marriage is a partnership. We use to share things. What happened to that?"
"All I can say is......I'm sorry. I know I was wrong in not sharing this with you. I guess I didn't discuss these things with you because I knew how you'd react. I've always known how you felt about Molly learning the truth that she's my daughter. And about our own children finding out. As for my decision to buy McCain out........Val we've known each other most of our lives, since we were fifteen and seventeen years old. I know you well enough to know that you didn't have enough faith in me to believe I wouldn't fail again. Do you know how that makes me feel? All my life I've had people believing that I was gonna fail at something rather than succeed. First it was my father and J.R., and then later, you. I've never believed in myself, because no one else ever has. Val, Harold came to me and offered to sell me his company because he needed to. He found out he has cancer, and he and Marge are moving to Florida to be near their daughter and grandchildren."
"Yeah, so am I. Harold wanted to make sure his company was left in good hands, since he doesn't have any family here to leave it to. And I am NOT gonna fail him.....or you."
Val walks over to him. She nods. "Alright," she says. "Then you have my full support and my full confidence."
Gary smiles. "Thank you, Val. I really feel this is it. The one thing that I'm finally gonna be a huge success at." Gary puts his arms around his wife and embraces her. As Val rests her head on his chest, a worried look comes over her face, as she still has her doubts and fears about Gary going into business for himself again.
Meanwhile, Bobby is coming down the stairs when his cell phone rings. He takes the phone from his pocket and looks at the caller I.D., then quickly answers. "Hi, Jake," Bobby says. "You found Brandon
Sheraton Gateway Hotel.....a short time later
"Brandon Williams?" Bobby asks.
"Yes, that's right."
"We need to talk," Bobby says, barging in past him.
"You know who I am?"
"Oh, yeah. I know. Now, what do you want here? I was just on my way out."
"To the airport, I hope," Bobby says.
Brandon smiles slightly. "Sorry to disappoint you, Ewing. But no. Just out."
Bobby moves closer to him. "Well as long as you're going out, I suggest you book the first flight back to New Haven and get out of Meg's life."
"Sorry, but I can't do that," says Brandon.
"Just what is it you expect to gain by coming here and harassing her?" Bobby asks.
"What do I expect to gain? That's simple........Meg."
Brandon laughs. "For my own sake? A threat. I love that."
"If you don't stay out of Meg's life and out of my way, I can promise that you won't be laughing."
"You're crazy if you think you can scare me away, Bobby. You can't. I love Meg, and I plan to stay until I can make her see how sorry I am and how much I regret hurting her."
Bobby angrily grabs Brandon by the collar of his jacket and forces him against the door. "Now you listen to me, you punk. Because I'm only gonna issue this warning once. If you bother Meg again, if you call her, or follow her, or even so much as like one of her pictures on Facebook, I'm gonna pay you another visit, and the next time, I won't be as friendly or as restrained as I am right now. I'll just beat the ever lovin' crap out of you and make you wish you'd never laid eyes on her."
Brandon struggles to break free of Bobby's grasp, but Bobby suddenly punches him hard in the stomach, causing him to fall to the floor, double over in pain.
Bobby pushes him out of the way and opens the door to leave. He turns back and looks at Brandon. "Next time, I'll aim that punch a little lower," he says, then storms out of the room.
After Bobby is gone, Brandon regains his composure and sits up, still in pain from the gut punch. "You son of a bitch," he says angrily. "You're gonna be sorry you did that. And I'm not going anywhere." Brandon struggles to his feet, walks over to the sofa and sits down. Taking his iPhone from his pocket, he opens his Facebook app and goes to Meg's profile. Scrolling down the page, he comes to a post on Meg's wall from Molly Cunningham:
"Thanks for lunch the other day, cousin. Let's hang again real soon."
Brandon smiles. "Molly Cunningham. Meg's cousin," he says quietly to himself.
The Sumner Ranch...
"Sure, thanks."
"Scotch okay?" Greg asks, walking to the bar.
"Scotch is perfect."
Greg grabs two glasses and starts making two drinks. "To what do I owe this unexpected but pleasant visit? You here to talk about your problems with Kate?"
"No. I'm not. I'm actually here to talk about some business, and, I figured it would be easier for me to drive out here to see you since you hardly ever leave this ranch these days."
Greg smiles as he hands Brian his scotch. "I love my retirement, and my seclusion. I absolutely LOVE it. You know I never was much of a people kinda guy. I should've done this years ago."
Brian smiles. "Well, I'm happy for you."
"What is it you wanted to talk to me about? Cunningham Enterprises havin' problems?"
"Oh, no, it's nothing like that. In fact, the company is doing just great."
"I knew it would in your capable hands. So what's up?"
"I wanted to ask you about a little company you use to own called Harris Computers."
"Yeah? What about it?" Greg asks.
"I'm thinking about buying it. Seems like a pretty sound investment."
"The company's solid. A real money maker. I sold it several years ago when I diversified my interest and sold off most of my assets."
"I know. But I can't seem to find who you sold it to. I've done some research on the company and I can't find any information on the current owners. The sale of Harris is going through a third party firm. I'd like to know who owns it now, and why the secrecy."
"Well who did you sell the company to back in 2008?" Brian asks.
"No idea. Just as now, the buyer wanted anonymity."
"You mean you don't even know who you sold the company to? Greg, I find that hard to believe. You're such a sharp businessman."
"Hey, at the time, I just wanted to unload the company, along with most of The Sumner Group's other companies and assets. I didn't care who bought the damned thing, and I never asked questions."
Brian sighs deeply. "Okay. Well, thank you."
"Sorry I couldn't help," Greg says.
"No problem. There has to be a way to find out who owns it. Greg, I appreciate your time," Brian says, putting his drink down. He shakes Greg's hand.
"Always glad to see ya, kid. You should come by more often. And tell my grand niece and nephew they're welcome to come riding any time they want."
"Will do. Bye, Greg."
"So long," Greg says.
Without another word, Brian turns and walks out. After Greg looks through the window and sees Brian get into his car, he walks over and picks up his phone and dials a number. On the second ring, someone answers.
"Hey, it's me," Greg says. "We have a problem you should know about. Brian was just here, and he's asking questions about Harris Computers. Don't you think you should HANDLE the situation?"
Meanwhile....
The Mall.....afternoon
"Molly," the man says. "When you and Chloe are done here, you can go ahead and take your breaks."
"Thanks, Mr. Jordan," Molly says.
"The man smiles, then walks away.
"I like working," Molly says. "I like this store, and besides, I don't wanna be one of those girls from a rich family who just sits around, goes to parties, and does NOTHING with their lives."
"To each his own, I guess," Chloe says. "But if my dad owned a multi-million dollar company like yours does, you can believe I'd be at the beach on a nice summer day like this instead of sorting polo shirts in this place."
Meg laughs at her friend's comment as Brandon walks up to the two girls. "Excuse me," he says.
"I'm hoping you can."
"Umm, Molly, if you wanna go ahead and take your break, I'll be more than happy to take care of this customer," Chloe says eagerly.
"Yes, I'm sure you would," says Molly.
"Well, in all fairness, this young lady did ask me first," Brandon says, referring to Molly.
Molly flashes a smug smile at her friend and Chloe walks away. "Now, how can I help you?" Molly asks.
"I was just looking for something casual and comfortable, but stylish. Something in the way of Polo or Aero. But I'm terrible at picking out clothes. Perhaps you can help me choose something that I'll look.......decent......in."
"Sure. I think maybe I could point you in the right direction."
"How so?"
"I just arrived in town a couple days ago, from back East, and, one of the first people I meet in Knots Landing just happens to be a gorgeous blonde with the most beautiful eyes I've ever seen."
Molly smiles and begins blushing at Brandon's compliment.
Downtown....
"Delicious," Meg says. "I haven't had a good hot dog from a stand since I went away to law school."
"You mean they didn't have these things in New Haven?"
"They weren't as good. Remember I said I hadn't had a GOOD hot dog from a stand. Didn't say I didn't have one at all."
"I'm glad you could meet me for lunch today," Bobby says.
"Me too. And thanks for meeting me here. It's near the courthouse, so it was more convenient for me on recess from court."
"How's your first big case going?"
"It's going okay. A little boring," Meg says. "A civil case. Disagreement between neighbors."
"Everything else going okay today?" Bobby asks.
"Everything's fine. If you mean have I heard from Brandon, then the answer is no."
"Good. I have a feeling he won't be bothering you anymore."
Meg stops walking and turns to him. "You had a talk with him, didn't you?"
"Yeah, I went to see him this morning. Told him if he didn't stay away from you, I'd make him regret ever laying eyes on you."
"Well, although I wish you hadn't resorted to threats, I am relieved you went to see him," says Meg. "Hopefully, he'll get the message now and leave town."
"I think he will," Bobby says. "If not, I'll pay him another little visit. One he'll enjoy even less than the one he got this morning."
The mall......late afternoon
"I can't believe you waited around all afternoon for me to get off work so you could buy me dinner," Molly says.
"I was just doing my job."
"And doing it very well, I must say. I'm afraid I'm totally incompetent when it comes to shopping for clothes."
"Not incompetent," says Molly. "Just the typical guy. Most guys don't know how to pick out the right clothes."
"How long have you been working there?" Brandon asks.
"Since last November," Molly replies. "I got the job for the Christmas season, and it was only supposed to be temporary, during the holidays. But Mr. Jordan, the manager, liked my work, so they kept me on."
"You must really like it."
"I love it. I get to see and meet a lot of interesting people. I have flexible hours, too."
"Sounds like a great job," Brandon says.
"So, what do you do?" Molly asks.
"I just graduated from law school."
"Really?" Molly asks with a smile. "Interesting."
"You seem pretty interesting too, Molly."
"Thank you."
"What are you doing later this evening?"
"Just going home. Relaxing. Why?"
"I was just wondering if maybe you'd like to see a movie with me. As I said earlier, I just arrived in town a couple days ago, and I don't know anyone here yet. I've been wanting to see that new movie, Jurassic World, but I didn't wanna go alone."
"Believe it or not, I haven't seen it either," Molly says.
"So would you like to go?" Brandon asks.
"I don't know...."
"Look, I realize that we just met, and I don't wanna creep you out or anything. We can meet at theater, and there's always crowds at a theater so you never have to be alone with me. So how about it?"
Molly smiles and nods. "Okay, sure. I'd love to."
"Great. Hold on." Brandon takes his phone out and checks for the movie show times. "Let's see it's after six thirty, so we don't have time to make the seven o'clock show. The next earliest showing is at 8:15. Is that okay?"
"That's perfect."
"Okay, then. I'll go home and shower and change, and meet you there at 8?"
"Sure," Molly says, smiling.
"Like I said before, today must be my lucky day," says Brandon, looking across the table at the beautiful young woman.
Abby's house....
"Good evening, Abby," George says, walking in.
"Thank you for coming over."
"My pleasure. It sounded urgent."
"Somewhat," says Abby. "George, do you remember that little company we bought from Greg Sumner several years ago?"
"Which one?"
"The computer company. Harris Computers."
"Sure, I remember. What about it?"
"We have a problem. Now you know the situation I'm in, and why I'm having to......diversify. I told my son Brian about Harris and he's interested in buying it."
"Well, then, what's the problem?" George asks. "I mean, your name isn't connected to the company."
"No, it's not. I thought I could just throw Brian this bone, and he'd go for it without asking questions. But, as my luck would have it, he wants to know who owns Harris Computers. When he wasn't able to find out through researching the company, he even went to Greg and asked him who he sold it to."
"I see."
"That's where you come in," Abby says.
"Do you remember that group of dummy corporations we set up a few years ago?"
"You mean the LAST time you found yourself in a similar situation?"
"Yes," Abby says.
"Of course I remember."
"George, I want you to use one of those dummy corporations as a front. I called McNeil & Associates, the middle company handling the sale of Harris to Cunningham Enterprises and got them to stall Brian on the purchase until tomorrow afternoon. Now, first thing in the morning, I want you to transfer ownership of Harris Computers to one of those companies. I don't wanna know which one, just, pick one. And make sure there's no way it can be traced back to me."
"Consider it done," George says.
"Always a pleasure helping you out, Abby."
"Are you in any particular hurry? If not, I'd love it if you joined me for a drink."
"Well, I did tell Linda I'd be home by 7:30. But, I suppose I could be an hour or so late."
Abby smiles. "Good. Because I'd like to show you just how much I appreciate all the invaluable help you've given me."
The MacKenzie Home....two days later
"You sure we're gonna have enough?" Betsy asks her mother and Karen as they carry plates onto the patio.
"Of course we will," replies Karen.
"If not, I have some stuff over at the house I can run and bring over," Val says.
"This is gonna be great," Karen says. "Just like the old days."
"Uh-huh," Val agrees. "Been a while since we've all gotten together for a cookout."
Betsy looks over at Dylan as he climbs out of the pool, gets on the diving board, and dives back in.
"Betsy, how's he doing?" Karen asks. "I mean, since his mother left."
Betsy sighs. "I'm not sure, Karen. He puts up a front. Acts like he's okay, but I see the sadness in his eyes."
"Poor kid," Meg says.
"Karen, how's Michael?" Betsy asks. "He seems like he's gotten over Angela."
"I'm not so sure about him, either. He says it isn't bothering him, but, I know it is. They didn't know each other long, but Michael fell hard for Angela. She was the first woman he was serious about since his divorce."
"Michael will be okay," Val says. "He's a strong man."
Meanwhile, on the other side of the patio, Brian and Bobby set up a table. "I thought Molly would be here."
"She's coming," Brian says. "She had to work at the department store. She gets off at four, and I think she's bringing a date."
"Oh yeah? I didn't realize she was seeing anybody."
"Some guy she met at the store a couple days ago. I haven't even met him yet."
"What about Kate?" Bobby asks.
"I'm really sorry to hear that, Brian."
"Eh, things happen."
Meanwhile, Abby walks over to Gary, who is marinating some chicken in barbecue sauce. "Hello, Gary," she says.
"Hi, Abby."
Gary looks at her and smiles. "Things are just fine, Abby. I appreciate your concern," Gary says sarcastically.
"Of course I'm concerned. After all, I spent some of the happiest days of my life with you."
"Abby, what are you up to?" Gary asks.
"Up to? Gary, what makes you think I'm UP to anything?"
"Because you haven't been this nice to me in years. You must want something."
Abby smiles and shakes her head. "Gary, you're just too suspicious."
"Trevor! Eric!" She yells to them from across the patio as both come up from under water. "Eric, how many times do I have to get onto you about diving into the SHALLOW end of the pool? Especially with these younger children watching!"
"Yeah, sorry about that, Grandma!" Eric yells back to her with an innocent smile.
"But you know you love having him and Michael here," Val says.
Karen smiles. "You bet I do. Having a teenage boy in the house again is.......well, it's challenging to say the least. But at the same time, it's wonderful. Takes me back to when my Eric and Michael were teenagers."
"Good old days, huh?" Val asks.
"Yes they were. But these days are pretty good, too. Especially now that Meg's home and we have Michael his wild child here for a while."
Val and Karen walk into the house and pick up two bowls of potato salad.
"So what about you?" Karen asks. "How are things with you and Gary since he purchased Harold McCain's company?"
"Things are.....better. We talked about it, and I told him I supported him and believed in him."
Karen smiles ear to ear. "I'm glad. Everything will be alright. You'll see."
"I hope so," Val says. "I'm just gonna have to believe that. And I have to believe that, even if things don't work out, Gary's gonna be strong enough to handle it this time."
"He will be. With you by his side. Come on, let's get this potato salad out there."
Back on the patio, Bobby and Meg are hanging out by near the back porch drinking a beer and chatting with Daniel, Betsy, and Michael when Brian comes over to them.
"Michael, can I have a word?" Brian asks.
"Yeah, sure," Michael says. He follows his cousin several feet away.
Brian turns to him. "I was talking to Mac and he mentioned that you were laid off."
Michael sighs. "I asked Mom and Mac not to say anything."
"Well, I was just asking questions. I was wondering how you'd managed to take so long off work. But anyway, if you need a job, I'd be happy to see what we have available at Cunningham."
"Thanks, cousin, I really appreciate it. But, I'll be fine. It's like I told Mom. I'd really like to make it on my own, without any help from the family."
"I can understand and respect that," Brian says. "But, the offer stands any time you want it."
"Thanks," Michael says.
Brian smiles, then turns and walks away.
Michael walks over to the cooler near one of the picnic tables are set up and grabs himself another beer. Gary walks over to him.
"Michael," Gary says.
"Hi, Gary."
"I couldn't help but overhear you and Brian. You lost your job?"
Michael sighs. "Yeah, i was laid off."
"I'm sorry to hear about that. Listen, if you're looking for something, I don't know if you were aware or not, but I just bought McCain Real Estate this week."
"I heard Mom and Mac mention that. Congratulations."
"Thank you. I really could use a good man to help me out."
"You're offering me a job?" Michael asks.
"I'll go one better than that. Michael, how would you like to be my partner in the real estate business?"
"Your partner?"
"Yes," replies Gary. "I think it would help us both out. I was also thinking about asking Bobby in with me, but, he's got a business venture planned with my nephew Christopher in Dallas, so, I doubt he'd be interested or have the time."
"Do you need an answer right away?" Michael asks.
"Well, not today, no, but I would like one soon, in the next few days."
"Feels good to have something to smile about for the first time in days. I guess your little visit worked. Brandon must have left town."
Bobby smiles, then embraces her.
Unknown to Meg and Bobby at the moment, their troubles with Brandon Williams are far from over. While they are inside the MacKenzie home, Molly arrives at the party on the patio with her guest - none other than Brandon himself.
Spotting Molly arrive, Brian walks over to them. "Hi, sweetheart," Brian says, greeting her with a kiss.
"Hi, Dad. Sorry I'm late. Dad, I'd like for you to meet Brandon. Brandon, my father, Brian Cunningham."
"Mr. Cunningham, it's a pleasure, sir."
"Nice to meet you, Brandon," Brian says, shaking the younger man's hand.
"Molly, hello," Karen says, coming over to greet her.
"Hi, Aunt Karen. This is my friend, Brandon."
"Hello, Brandon, and welcome," says Karen.
"Thank you."
"We'll be eating soon," Karen says. "So, in the meantime, just mingle, or you can go for a swim, or whatever. Just make yourselves at home."
Meanwhile, Bobby and Meg come out of the house and kiss again when they walk onto the patio. Then, as they end the kiss, Meg looks over Bobby's shoulder and sees Brandon and Molly talking to Karen and Brian.
"I don't believe this," Meg says.
"What?" Bobby asks.
"Look who's here."
Bobby turns around and is shocked to see Brandon. "What the hell is he doing here?"
"I have no idea."
"I'm gonna....."
"Bobby, no," Meg says, grabbing Bobby's arm as he starts to walk over to Brandon. "Please, don't make a scene. Not here at Mom and Dad's party."
"I won't make a scene. But I AM gonna find out what the hell that guy's doing here." Bobby makes his way over to the group. Meg follows. "Hey, Molly," Bobby says.
"Bobby, hi," Molly says. "Hi, Meg."
"Hey," says Meg.
"My, my," says Brandon. "Hello Meg. Small world, isn't it?"
"Yes. That's right," says an angry Meg.
"Well, now isn't that an interesting coincidence?" Asks a smiling Karen.
"Molly, would you excuse us for a minute?" Meg asks. "I'd like to ask Brandon something. Sort of catch up."
"I'd like that, too," Brandon says. "Meg and I haven't seen each other in......a while."
"Sure," says Molly, who walks away with Brian and Karen.
"What the HELL are you doing here?" Meg asks Brandon in anger. "And more importantly, what are you doing here with my cousin?"
"I thought I made it clear to you that you were to leave town," Bobby says.
"Oh, you mean that threat you made against me? You didn't honestly expect me to take that seriously, did you, Bobby?"
"Williams, you're really pressing your luck," Bobby says.
"No, actually, it's YOU who's pressing YOUR luck. See, it's still a free country and I can come and go as I please. And see whomever I please. I haven't broken any laws. You, my friend, on the other hand, HAVE broken the law. You came to my hotel room the other morning and assaulted me. I'm not gonna press any charges for that. Yet. But if you threaten me again, or lay one more finger on me, I'm afraid I'll have to have you arrested for assault and battery."
"You son of a......"
"Bobby, don't," Meg says, grabbing his arm.
Brandon smiles. "Meg, this boyfriend of yours has one hell of a temper. Maybe you'd better take him up to your bedroom and help him relieve some of that built up tension before he explodes. In the meantime, I'm gonna catch up to my date and enjoy this nice party.....at Meg's house. Excuse me." Still smiling, Brandon pushes past Meg and Bobby and walks over to Molly as they watch him, both Meg and Bobby seething with anger.
"Damn him," Meg says. "I don't know how he did it, but he had to have somehow arranged to meet Molly just so he could get to me. He's using her."
"I'm not gonna do it here in front of our families and friends," Bobby says. "But I'm gonna teach that guy a lesson. One he won't soon forget." Bobby continues to glare angrily at Brandon across the patio, the smug look on Brandon's face as he looks back at him and smiles, causing the anger to rise up inside of him against this man who had come into their lives to bring nothing but trouble...