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Dallas the TV series
Dallas Writers Room
Shadowlands: Dallas, Knots Landing, Falcon Crest 2021
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<blockquote data-quote="stevew" data-source="post: 247153" data-attributes="member: 130"><p>The party rages inside when Jacobi, Sophie, Arnold and Mattie all step out onto the terrace. Jacobi introduces himself, “I’m Jacobi Ewing. You’re pretty damn good,” shaking Arnold’s hand.</p><p></p><p>“Thank you. I was thinking the same thing about you. Lucy’s your mother?”</p><p></p><p>“No. I mean she raised me when I was a kid. I don’t really know my mother. My father’s John Ross Ewing.”</p><p></p><p>“You’re father’s John Ross Ewing, like of the Ewing Brothers?”</p><p></p><p>“That’s the one. His presence walks in the room ahead of me, for good or bad. Mostly bad.”</p><p></p><p>“Well, he’s just some Libertarian power player in this town. So I hear.”</p><p></p><p>Sophie says, “And Ewing Industries is the second largest private company in America. Hi. I’m Sophie Barkley. My Uncle and your father were sort of notoriously on opposite ends of this last election. My uncle’s Richard Channing. Arnold and I go way back. How have you been? Been so long.”</p><p></p><p>“I’ve been pretty good. Traveling. My Uncle Dia’s put me up here in Washington.”</p><p></p><p>“I saw him in there. He backed Joel Bouton.”</p><p></p><p>“So did my father,” Mattie says. “Hi. I’m Mattie Sumner.”</p><p></p><p>Sophie adds, “As in Greg Sumner?”</p><p></p><p>“Yes.”</p><p></p><p>“I bet he’s pissed. I heard he was on the soft list for V.P.”</p><p></p><p>“I’m afraid my dad’s a bit old for a job whose sole requirement is to outlive your boss.”</p><p></p><p>“You’ve got a point there. This is Jacobi Ewing. His father backed Bower. Well, until he didn’t.”</p><p></p><p>Jacobi says, “Yea he really pulled back at the end, didn’t he? Then the public disagreement over Bower refusing to concede the election. I’m a lawyer, so I really hate to take sides. I’d prefer to see where the wind takes me.”</p><p></p><p>“A lawyer,” Sophie says. “A journalist,” she adds turning to Mattie “And, an artist,” turning to Arnold. “I’m in the wine business. I run the Falcon Crest Winery and as of just recently, I’m the President of the Wine, Spirits and Beer Alliance, so I’ll be in D.C. for a while with this new Congress.”</p><p></p><p>“A bit young to be running a winery and a lobbying group like the WSB,” Jacobi says.</p><p></p><p>“My father retired and so someone had to pick up the job. My sister’s a wife and mother. And, my Uncle Richard lobbied for me. I think he thought the exposure would be a good thing.”</p><p></p><p>Arnold says, “Well Washington is a young man’s town. If you’re thirty you better be somewhere or this town ‘ll eat you alive.”</p><p></p><p>Sophie says, “Well good then, we’ve all got a few years. I assume the same with you Jacobi.”</p><p></p><p>“Oh yes. I’m not thirty yet.”</p><p></p><p>“Good. Good. I wouldn’t want to see you get eaten alive.”</p><p></p><p></p><p></p><p></p><p></p><p>In a bedroom in an apartment overlooking the D.C. skyline Jacobi and Sophie strip off their close and fall into bed.</p><p></p><p></p><p></p><p></p><p></p><p>Mattie sits at a counter in an all night dinner, in earliest hours of the morning, and orders a cup of coffee as Arnold sits next to him. Mattie says, “Can you believe that party. Everyone was there. Lucy Ewing knows both sides of the aisle.”</p><p></p><p>“And then some.”</p><p></p><p>“Her dad’s an old friend of my dad’s.”</p><p></p><p>“And John Ross Ewing was there.”</p><p></p><p>“To be that wealthy. Of course you said you know Richard Channing. Now that’s a man with a lot of money too.”</p><p></p><p>“Hundred Billion. Twice what John Ross is worth, but the stories you hear about the Ewings.”</p><p></p><p>“Yeah Gary Ewing, Lucy’s dad, lost most everything he had. Lives in a cul-de-sac. So you’re really an artist?”</p><p></p><p>“Well I don’t know. Been a while. You really a journalist.” Mattie goes to his phone, pulling up an article he hands it to Arnold. Arnold reads it, silent for a bit. “Wow. You’re really good.” Arnold hands it back to him.</p><p></p><p>“Thank you.”</p><p></p><p>“So this whole fake news thing, must be pretty difficult in your line of work. Everything you say questioned, no matter how many agree with you, just one source says otherwise or tosses out a line or two of doubt and all of a sudden you’re a lying sack of shit.”</p><p></p><p>“Something like that.”</p><p></p><p></p><p></p><p></p><p></p><p>Bright and early in the morning Lucy meets Sue Ellen walking into her Entry Hall. “Now what dragged you out of Texas?”</p><p></p><p>“I’m here to visit my grandson.”</p><p></p><p>“Charming. You and his father speaking yet?”</p><p></p><p>“John Ross and I are speaking. Occasionally.”</p><p></p><p>“I heard you’re pretty close to Pamela. How’s she doing?”</p><p></p><p>“She’s doing well.”</p><p></p><p>“And the boys?”</p><p></p><p>“Excellent.”</p><p></p><p>“You know John Ross and I have had our moments when we’re on opposite sides but when Uncle Bobby got you out of that rehab John Ross stuck you in, I figured whatever your son did to him, he had it coming.”</p><p></p><p>“Nice of you to care so much.”</p><p></p><p>“You know you were better off in there than out on your own. Certainly your son was. It’s amazing from the grave what JR could pull off. He took Ewing Energies from you and Uncle Bobby. Took Barnes Global from Cliff. Even ended up with Wentworth Tool and Die. Ryland Logistics. Ewing Oil. West Star. But you know what, he shared it with Bo. He didn’t have to do that. Shared everything but Southfork. And even let Uncle Bobby stay on. Got to hand it to him. He didn’t turn out all that bad, did he?”</p><p></p><p>“I hear, Judith Brown is a neighbor of yours.”</p><p></p><p>“Senator Brown, yes just right next door. One of John Ross’s dearest friends. The two are thick as thieves.”</p><p></p><p>“Grandma!” Jacobi calls out while hopping down the steps. “Don’t you look beautiful. Ready?”</p><p></p><p>“Couldn’t be more ready. I’ve been waiting for our outing all week. Let’s get lunch first and then we can go looking at apartments.”</p><p></p><p></p><p></p><p></p><p></p><p>Jacobi and Sue Ellen have lunch in a bright and airy restaurant in Washington, D. C. She asks him all about his new job and he replies, “Mostly dull research really. Nothing exciting. I’m attending a fundraiser this evening for the Education for All Foundation.”</p><p></p><p>“What’s that all about?”</p><p></p><p>“Well it’s foundation supporting bill Education for All. The idea actually comes from my father. He wants to pay student loan debt of teachers and professors. The more time they teach, the more they get paid off. And it’ll create debt relief and education funding for those in the Peace Corps and a Health Care Corps similar to the Military Reserves Corps. It’s a sweeping change that’ll train and educate millions of Americas as opposed to returning costly unskilled labor jobs.”</p><p></p><p>“And your father is backing this? John Ross Ewing?”</p><p></p><p>Jacobi chuckles, “Yeah right. I was taken back. But he set up the foundation.”</p><p></p><p>“Not to defeat it?”</p><p></p><p>“No Grandma. To pass it and pay whatever it costs to make happen. I’ve got the Education for All Foundation fundraiser this evening and then I’m headed over to Senator Hardtack’s for a campaign fundraiser.”</p><p></p><p>“Senator Ashely Hardtack? Your father’s not looking for him to back this Education for All bill is he?”</p><p></p><p>“Yes. Yes he is?”</p><p></p><p>“There is no way Senator Hardtack is going to support such a thing.”</p><p></p><p>“Dad seems to think he’s got the political capital to convince him to do just that.”</p><p></p><p>“Well I’ve underestimated your father before, but wow. If he can pull that off, I’ll be shocked.”</p><p></p><p></p><p></p><p></p><p></p><p>Sophie hands the rains of her horse to a big, strong blond man, older than her, maybe in his thirties, maybe his early forties. “Nice ride Mrs. Barkley?”</p><p></p><p>“It was. Mostly political talk.”</p><p></p><p>“Even a beautiful ride on the grounds of Mr. Channing’s estate and you’re still working.”</p><p></p><p>“I do work a lot, don’t I? That wasn’t always the case with me,” she hesitates and then says, “I’m sorry. I don’t know your name.”</p><p></p><p>“Chad.”</p><p></p><p>“Chad. I use to enjoy school.”</p><p></p><p>“Did you? Wasn’t that a lot of work?”</p><p></p><p>“I suppose but it was different. I was a Baldwin girl, just like my grandmother and great grandmother. And I went to Bryn Mawr, just like they did. It’s like another world away from my life now.”</p><p></p><p>“Did your grandmother work a lot, like you?”</p><p></p><p>“Oh no. My grandmother is a nun. She lives clustered in Italy where she makes a very fine wine.”</p><p></p><p>“You’re a very devout family, Mrs. Barkley. Mr. Channing had a nephew here a few times, a Bishop, I think.”</p><p></p><p>“That’s my Uncle Chris. He’s a Cardinal now.”</p><p></p><p>“A very good family. Though I’ve heard pretty tragic for your uncle. He’s been widowed three times.”</p><p></p><p>“He has. And my parents have been married for over thirty years. And my sister, Lisa’s, been married for fifteen, I think. And my cousins, Michael, Kevin, Angela, they all have good marriages and families, and find time to enjoy life. And then there’s me.”</p><p></p><p>“You don’t enjoy life?”</p><p></p><p>“Kinda of too busy. Divorced. Three children. A business to run, Falcon Crest. It’s a winery. The most important winery of the Gioberti Family Estates. And now this work heading up the industry’s lobbying efforts.”</p><p></p><p>“Are your children here?”</p><p></p><p>“No. they’re back in California.”</p><p></p><p>“It must be very difficult to be away from them.”</p><p></p><p>“I suppose so. Um, Chad. You’re a very good looking man.”</p><p></p><p>“Thank you.”</p><p></p><p>“I sort of make it my business to know about the people around me, you know, no surprises. You’ve had a colorful past. But one that makes me think you’ve got a particular skill set.” She reaches up and rubs his well-formed and solid chest packed tightly in a cotton shirt.</p><p></p><p>“I’m sorry Mrs. Barkley, I don’t think . . .”</p><p></p><p>“I’m not asking that you think.” With her other hand she rubs his crotch. “I’m asking that you perform. You can do that, it would seem.”</p><p></p><p>Chad backs up. “You’re very beautiful, but . . .”</p><p></p><p>“I don’t really care what I am. What I’m interested in is what you are. Now you can agree to this or family can see the videos I’ve seen of you. Pretty racy stuff. Maybe your wife’ll get into it. Might really embrace everyone else, your kids.”</p><p></p><p>“Please Mrs. Barkley. That was a long time ago. My life was . . .”</p><p></p><p>“You don’t need to explain. It’s nothing more than a performance, just between you and me. But I don’t like to be told no, ever. Take your shirt off.”</p><p></p><p>He hesitates and then peels his shirt off over his head.</p><p></p><p>Sophie grins. “You’re beautiful.”</p><p></p><p></p><p></p><p></p><p></p><p>Mattie walks into Arnold’s studio. Arnold’s naked and covered in paint. Various colored body smudges cover the enormous canves in front of him. Mattie says, “Oh my. Talk about throwing yourself into your work.”</p><p></p><p>Arnold turns around, surprised to see him but not modest about his appearance. “Mattie. What are you doing here?”</p><p></p><p>“I don’t know. What’s with the painting?”</p><p></p><p>“I don’t know. I can’t seem to think of anything so I did this.”</p><p></p><p>“It’s interesting.”</p><p></p><p>“I don’t know about that.”</p><p></p><p>Mattie says, “But put the name Arnold Chi, the wondering, every allusive nomad, and it’ll sell for far more than the cost of the average house in D.C.”</p><p></p><p>“It probably would. But I don’t think I’ll sell it.”</p><p></p><p>“No?”</p><p></p><p>“No. Would you like it?”</p><p></p><p>“A painting with shadows of your nude body all over it? Maybe I would. I’ll have to move. I’ll need a bigger wall.”</p><p></p><p>“Then it’s yours. But I won’t sign it. That way it’s not a horribly expensive gift, it’s just a throwaway canvas.”</p><p></p><p>Mattie laughs. “You’re something else, you know it. You really are.”</p><p></p><p>“I like to think so.”</p><p></p><p>“Any way, you spoke the other day at the diner about hacking.”</p><p></p><p>“I probably should have.”</p><p></p><p>“No. No I’m glad you did. What you said, it probably needs to get out there. People need to know. And, well I can get the attention of credible news sources and keep your name out of it.”</p><p></p><p>“I don’t know.”</p><p></p><p>“Well, just think about it. In the meantime, I’m going to a fundraiser tonight for the Education for All Foundation. And I was wondering if maybe you’d like to be my date?”</p><p></p><p>“I don’t know. I don’t so well at those sorts of things.” Arnold begins to clean up the things around him, more a way of keeping busy then making a dent in the mess of art supplies around him. “Besides, if I’m going to be your source, should we be seen together?”</p><p></p><p>“If the enemy cannot find you, you may hide in plain sight.”</p><p></p><p>“You know the Art of War.”</p><p></p><p>“If they cannot see your strength or know your plans, they may make foolish moves.”</p><p></p><p>“In deed they might,” Arnold says, putting down the stuff he was straightening, giving full attention to Mattie. “All warfare is based on deception, hence when we are able to attack, we must seem unable. When using our forces, we must appear inactive; when we are near, we must make the enemy believe we are far away; when we are far away, we must make him believe we are near.”</p><p></p><p>“So is that a yes?”</p><p></p><p>“Yes. Yes, I’ll go with you to this thing of yours.”</p><p></p><p></p><p></p><p></p><p></p><p>Cars roll up in front of a restaurant in Washington, D. C. and valets take them away after their passengers get out, well dressed, Washington’s elite, including Senator Sumner by himself. Greg is greeted at the door by a couple who are thrilled he’s able to attend what they think is a very important cause.</p><p></p><p>“I heard that the Ewing’s are your biggest donners, so I couldn’t resists finding out more, what magic you have to bring over the dark side.”</p><p></p><p>The couple laughs. She says, “Oh John Ross came to us. He said he hear about what we were doing and wanted to jump on board. He had all sorts of ideas that frankly we didn’t think could pass.”</p><p></p><p>“Well, you know you’ve got my vote. It’s a great piece of legislation.” Greg pats the man on the should and walks in.</p><p></p><p></p><p></p><p>Inside the restaurant Jacobi and Sophie walk over to Mattie and Arnold. John Ross says, “I see your father is here,” to Arnold.</p><p></p><p>“Oh of course he is. This bill is the biggest thing he’s had a chance to jump on since the Affordable Care Act. With your father behind it, I’m expect it to get even more watered down.”</p><p></p><p>“Oh my father’s add to it. And helped line up the bipartisan support. I’m headed over to Senator Hardtack’s after this to talk to him about supporting the bill.”</p><p></p><p>“Senator Hardtack? Your father doesn’t really think he can get Senator Hardtack to support Education for All, does he?”</p><p></p><p>“I give you my word, he does. He’s sending me over to deliver the message.”</p><p></p><p>Sophie takes Arnold’s arm and pulls him away, saying, “We’ll be right back.”</p><p></p><p></p><p></p><p></p><p></p><p>Off to the side, walking through the standing room only crowd, Sophie says, “What in the world are you doing here? Of all the people I can think of which would surprise me to see here, and still I wouldn’t have thought of you.”</p><p></p><p>“Mattie asked me.”</p><p></p><p>“Mattie asked you? And that’s it. How long are you staying in D. C.?”</p><p></p><p>“I don’t know. Right now I just need a place to stay put.”</p><p></p><p>“Are you alright?”</p><p></p><p>“Yes of course.”</p><p></p><p>“It’s just, well, Arnold, you’ve walked this entire planet and all of a sudden you’re staying put and attending political fundraisers. What’s your family say?”</p><p></p><p>“I’m staying at my uncle’s house.”</p><p></p><p>“Well I know that.”</p><p></p><p>“Are you seeing that Ewing guy?”</p><p></p><p>“Jacobi? No. Nothing like that. But together people do notice us. And that’s why you attend these things. To be noticed.”</p><p></p><p>“I’m just here because Mattie asked me.”</p><p></p><p>“Well, I can tell you everyone’s talking about Arnold Chi showing up the second you walked through that door. Spotting you is a bigger thing among this people than finding Waldo. And if you’re with Mattie, the son of a Senator just got a whole lot more attention.”</p><p></p><p>“It’s not like that. Not everyone is using everybody else, Sophie.”</p><p></p><p>“Well I don’t know about that. But I know you’re my friend. So, if you need anything. I’m here for you.”</p><p></p><p>“I’m probably the only person in the world that would here that from you and can honestly believe it.”</p><p></p><p>“It’s true. I don’t want to see you get hurt.”</p><p></p><p>“I know, Sophie. I won’t. And if I do, like all the other times, I’ll come running to you and you can beat them up.”</p><p></p><p>“I never beat anyone up. I mean not personally.” She smiles and laughs, holding tight to Arnolds arm. “So you think walking around here with you has got him enough notice?”</p><p></p><p>“Oh so you’re the one using me.”</p><p></p><p>“You knew that when I told your arm. Jacobi thinks he’s the one everyone around here is talking about, the son of John Ross Ewing showing up to the most liberal event in D. C. in ten years.”</p><p></p><p>“So did our stroll help you one up your date?”</p><p></p><p>Sophie laughs, “Oh I’ve missed you Arnie. I’ve missed you so much.”</p><p></p><p></p><p></p><p></p><p></p><p>Later that evening at a much smaller gathering at very large house of Senator Hardtack Jacobi and Sophie enjoy a few small snacks and glasses of wine. “Not Falcon Crest Wine?” he asks.</p><p></p><p>“No. In fact, a pretty inferior product.”</p><p></p><p>“Is everything inferior to Falcon Crest wines?”</p><p></p><p>“No of course not. But this is. But what do you expect. Look at this room. They hired some magazine editor to decorate it for effect.”</p><p></p><p>“And the effect isn’t working for you?”</p><p></p><p>“No that’s the problem. By design it’s meant to impress, so it just simply never can.”</p><p></p><p>“I see. Can you excuse me. I need to speak to Senator Hardtack.”</p><p></p><p></p><p></p><p>Alone, together, in a closed door library Jacobi says, “Senator Hardtack, my father asked me to speak to you about the Education for All bill.”</p><p></p><p>“Tell him no worries. It won’t make it out of committee.”</p><p></p><p>“No that’s just it. He wants it out of committee, on the floor and on the President’s desk very quickly.”</p><p></p><p>“You’re joking.”</p><p></p><p>“Not at all. My father believes one of the most important functions of a capitalist government is to provide the funds for education.”</p><p></p><p>“Well that’s not going to happen.”</p><p></p><p>“Senator Hardtack. My father is dyslexic. He can barely read. I’m serious about that. But there are two books he owns that are well worn. A copy of the Art of War that came from his father, J. R. Ewing, and a copy of the Wealth of Nations which came from his stepfather, Don Lockwood, the Lord Maitland. Now in that second book, Adam Smith is very clear about the role government plays in funding education.”</p><p></p><p>“Listen, I don’t give ant’s piss what some book says about funding education. We’re talking a lot of money which will require a lot of taxes and I’m not supporting any bill that will force us to raise taxes.”</p><p></p><p>“Well, not from my father, but I’d be happy to talk to myself about a GST.”</p><p></p><p>“Would you now. See I’m thinking your father isn’t very supportive of this Education for All Bill. I’m thinking it’s you. And you’re just coming here to use his name. But I’m not that stupid, boy.”</p><p></p><p>“No that’s not true.”</p><p></p><p>“Well, I think it is. So we’re done here. Go and tell your daddy I said Education for All can f**k off and die.” The senator walks out of the room.</p><p></p><p></p><p></p><p></p><p></p><p>The next day the Senate Education committee begins to argue about the Education for All bill and Senator Hardtack slams his gavel several times calling for order.</p><p></p><p>Senator Sumner says, “You better believe this time next week, I’ll be holding that gavel.”</p><p></p><p>Senator Hardtack snaps back, “Why, you planning on stealing another election?”</p><p></p><p>“Not at all Senator. The people, the real people of this country with a brain in their head looking to educate their children, they’re gonna hand us the majority in this chamber and don’t you think for one second you’re not the only one who can play hardball.”</p><p></p><p>“That a threat Mr. Sumner?”</p><p></p><p>“Statement of fact. This bill is good for this country, for our businesses, for our people. And you’re tryin’ kill it so a bunch of your low life friends can keep a few more billion in their pockets.”</p><p></p><p>“We’re all wealthy men sitting at this table, Senator Sumner.”</p><p></p><p>“Yeah I’ve noticed, wealthy, old white men. But some of us are so god damn greedy.”</p><p></p><p></p><p></p><p></p><p></p><p>Senator Hardtack walks into his office complaining to his stay that follows that if they don’t win Iowa, “Game over. They’ll create five more states in a few months, all Democrat, and Game over.”</p><p></p><p>A woman says, “Senator. Mr. Ewing is waiting in your office.”</p><p></p><p>“Of good. I need a friendly face.” He walks in and shuts the door. “John Ross. Good to see you. We need to talk. Iowa. I’m told you haven’t contributed a dime. What’s going on?”</p><p></p><p>“My son told me your response to the Education for All Act.”</p><p></p><p>“And?”</p><p></p><p>“So, I flew all the way out here to correct your thinking. I did send him to talk to you. I do support it and I expect you to as well.”</p><p></p><p>“Well that’s not gonna happen. So what about Iowa.”</p><p></p><p>“I’ve made a contribution to the Democratic Party of Iowa.”</p><p></p><p>“That a threat? Cause I’m really sick of threats today.”</p><p></p><p>“I don’t threaten people. That’s a fact. A done deal actually. The problem isn’t am I getting this bill passed. The problem is can I count on your to make it happen?”</p><p></p><p>“No.”</p><p></p><p>“You’re telling me no?” John Ross walks right up to the man. “You know I’ve always considered you a Ewing asset. But my daddy always told me, a man’s got to know when to sell and when to buy.”</p><p></p><p>“You’re not your daddy.”</p><p></p><p>“No, I’m not. Senator, do you honestly think that Bower is the only one who knows your secrets? We know who gave him those secrets. But do you know how those people got their hands on that information?”</p><p></p><p>“Again more threats.”</p><p></p><p>“Not at all. A done deal. I just want to make sure you know it was me who closed the deal. And I want you to talk. Tell everybody you know. A hanging ain’t no good unless it’s a public hangin’.” Good day Senator Hardtack.” John Ross walks out of his office just as several minute walk into the out office flashing badges.</p><p></p><p>Hardtack stands at the door. “What is this?”</p><p></p><p>“Ashely Hardtack, you’re under arrest. You have the right to remain silent. You have the right . . .” The Senator puts up a fight as two other men manhandle him and handcuff him, shoved up against the door jam.</p><p></p><p>John Ross walks out of the office.</p><p></p><p></p><p></p><p></p><p></p><p>A Sunday morning television news panel talks over each other.</p><p></p><p>“President Bower is under arrest for tax evasion, along with a dozen other people in his administration, and now Senator Hardtack. Is this the Democrats trick, catch everyone on tax technicalities?”</p><p></p><p>“The Truesdale report doesn’t mentioned Senator Hardtack but does allude to information flowing from Russia to Bower to use against member of his own party.”</p><p></p><p>“There are recordings. God damn recordings of meetings!”</p><p></p><p>“They stole the election and now they’re out to crucify him and his disciples. It’s a witch hunt. All the while we ignore President Bouton meeting with the Chinese. The single greatest threat to this country and they’ve bought and paid for our president.”</p><p></p><p>“What about Iowa?”</p><p></p><p>“What about Puerto Rico, Columbia, Southern California?”</p><p></p><p>“What about Iowa?”</p><p></p><p>“What about Texas?”</p><p></p><p>“What the hell is going on in this country?”</p><p></p><p></p><p></p><p></p><p></p><p>End of Episode 1</p></blockquote><p></p>
[QUOTE="stevew, post: 247153, member: 130"] The party rages inside when Jacobi, Sophie, Arnold and Mattie all step out onto the terrace. Jacobi introduces himself, “I’m Jacobi Ewing. You’re pretty damn good,” shaking Arnold’s hand. “Thank you. I was thinking the same thing about you. Lucy’s your mother?” “No. I mean she raised me when I was a kid. I don’t really know my mother. My father’s John Ross Ewing.” “You’re father’s John Ross Ewing, like of the Ewing Brothers?” “That’s the one. His presence walks in the room ahead of me, for good or bad. Mostly bad.” “Well, he’s just some Libertarian power player in this town. So I hear.” Sophie says, “And Ewing Industries is the second largest private company in America. Hi. I’m Sophie Barkley. My Uncle and your father were sort of notoriously on opposite ends of this last election. My uncle’s Richard Channing. Arnold and I go way back. How have you been? Been so long.” “I’ve been pretty good. Traveling. My Uncle Dia’s put me up here in Washington.” “I saw him in there. He backed Joel Bouton.” “So did my father,” Mattie says. “Hi. I’m Mattie Sumner.” Sophie adds, “As in Greg Sumner?” “Yes.” “I bet he’s pissed. I heard he was on the soft list for V.P.” “I’m afraid my dad’s a bit old for a job whose sole requirement is to outlive your boss.” “You’ve got a point there. This is Jacobi Ewing. His father backed Bower. Well, until he didn’t.” Jacobi says, “Yea he really pulled back at the end, didn’t he? Then the public disagreement over Bower refusing to concede the election. I’m a lawyer, so I really hate to take sides. I’d prefer to see where the wind takes me.” “A lawyer,” Sophie says. “A journalist,” she adds turning to Mattie “And, an artist,” turning to Arnold. “I’m in the wine business. I run the Falcon Crest Winery and as of just recently, I’m the President of the Wine, Spirits and Beer Alliance, so I’ll be in D.C. for a while with this new Congress.” “A bit young to be running a winery and a lobbying group like the WSB,” Jacobi says. “My father retired and so someone had to pick up the job. My sister’s a wife and mother. And, my Uncle Richard lobbied for me. I think he thought the exposure would be a good thing.” Arnold says, “Well Washington is a young man’s town. If you’re thirty you better be somewhere or this town ‘ll eat you alive.” Sophie says, “Well good then, we’ve all got a few years. I assume the same with you Jacobi.” “Oh yes. I’m not thirty yet.” “Good. Good. I wouldn’t want to see you get eaten alive.” In a bedroom in an apartment overlooking the D.C. skyline Jacobi and Sophie strip off their close and fall into bed. Mattie sits at a counter in an all night dinner, in earliest hours of the morning, and orders a cup of coffee as Arnold sits next to him. Mattie says, “Can you believe that party. Everyone was there. Lucy Ewing knows both sides of the aisle.” “And then some.” “Her dad’s an old friend of my dad’s.” “And John Ross Ewing was there.” “To be that wealthy. Of course you said you know Richard Channing. Now that’s a man with a lot of money too.” “Hundred Billion. Twice what John Ross is worth, but the stories you hear about the Ewings.” “Yeah Gary Ewing, Lucy’s dad, lost most everything he had. Lives in a cul-de-sac. So you’re really an artist?” “Well I don’t know. Been a while. You really a journalist.” Mattie goes to his phone, pulling up an article he hands it to Arnold. Arnold reads it, silent for a bit. “Wow. You’re really good.” Arnold hands it back to him. “Thank you.” “So this whole fake news thing, must be pretty difficult in your line of work. Everything you say questioned, no matter how many agree with you, just one source says otherwise or tosses out a line or two of doubt and all of a sudden you’re a lying sack of shit.” “Something like that.” Bright and early in the morning Lucy meets Sue Ellen walking into her Entry Hall. “Now what dragged you out of Texas?” “I’m here to visit my grandson.” “Charming. You and his father speaking yet?” “John Ross and I are speaking. Occasionally.” “I heard you’re pretty close to Pamela. How’s she doing?” “She’s doing well.” “And the boys?” “Excellent.” “You know John Ross and I have had our moments when we’re on opposite sides but when Uncle Bobby got you out of that rehab John Ross stuck you in, I figured whatever your son did to him, he had it coming.” “Nice of you to care so much.” “You know you were better off in there than out on your own. Certainly your son was. It’s amazing from the grave what JR could pull off. He took Ewing Energies from you and Uncle Bobby. Took Barnes Global from Cliff. Even ended up with Wentworth Tool and Die. Ryland Logistics. Ewing Oil. West Star. But you know what, he shared it with Bo. He didn’t have to do that. Shared everything but Southfork. And even let Uncle Bobby stay on. Got to hand it to him. He didn’t turn out all that bad, did he?” “I hear, Judith Brown is a neighbor of yours.” “Senator Brown, yes just right next door. One of John Ross’s dearest friends. The two are thick as thieves.” “Grandma!” Jacobi calls out while hopping down the steps. “Don’t you look beautiful. Ready?” “Couldn’t be more ready. I’ve been waiting for our outing all week. Let’s get lunch first and then we can go looking at apartments.” Jacobi and Sue Ellen have lunch in a bright and airy restaurant in Washington, D. C. She asks him all about his new job and he replies, “Mostly dull research really. Nothing exciting. I’m attending a fundraiser this evening for the Education for All Foundation.” “What’s that all about?” “Well it’s foundation supporting bill Education for All. The idea actually comes from my father. He wants to pay student loan debt of teachers and professors. The more time they teach, the more they get paid off. And it’ll create debt relief and education funding for those in the Peace Corps and a Health Care Corps similar to the Military Reserves Corps. It’s a sweeping change that’ll train and educate millions of Americas as opposed to returning costly unskilled labor jobs.” “And your father is backing this? John Ross Ewing?” Jacobi chuckles, “Yeah right. I was taken back. But he set up the foundation.” “Not to defeat it?” “No Grandma. To pass it and pay whatever it costs to make happen. I’ve got the Education for All Foundation fundraiser this evening and then I’m headed over to Senator Hardtack’s for a campaign fundraiser.” “Senator Ashely Hardtack? Your father’s not looking for him to back this Education for All bill is he?” “Yes. Yes he is?” “There is no way Senator Hardtack is going to support such a thing.” “Dad seems to think he’s got the political capital to convince him to do just that.” “Well I’ve underestimated your father before, but wow. If he can pull that off, I’ll be shocked.” Sophie hands the rains of her horse to a big, strong blond man, older than her, maybe in his thirties, maybe his early forties. “Nice ride Mrs. Barkley?” “It was. Mostly political talk.” “Even a beautiful ride on the grounds of Mr. Channing’s estate and you’re still working.” “I do work a lot, don’t I? That wasn’t always the case with me,” she hesitates and then says, “I’m sorry. I don’t know your name.” “Chad.” “Chad. I use to enjoy school.” “Did you? Wasn’t that a lot of work?” “I suppose but it was different. I was a Baldwin girl, just like my grandmother and great grandmother. And I went to Bryn Mawr, just like they did. It’s like another world away from my life now.” “Did your grandmother work a lot, like you?” “Oh no. My grandmother is a nun. She lives clustered in Italy where she makes a very fine wine.” “You’re a very devout family, Mrs. Barkley. Mr. Channing had a nephew here a few times, a Bishop, I think.” “That’s my Uncle Chris. He’s a Cardinal now.” “A very good family. Though I’ve heard pretty tragic for your uncle. He’s been widowed three times.” “He has. And my parents have been married for over thirty years. And my sister, Lisa’s, been married for fifteen, I think. And my cousins, Michael, Kevin, Angela, they all have good marriages and families, and find time to enjoy life. And then there’s me.” “You don’t enjoy life?” “Kinda of too busy. Divorced. Three children. A business to run, Falcon Crest. It’s a winery. The most important winery of the Gioberti Family Estates. And now this work heading up the industry’s lobbying efforts.” “Are your children here?” “No. they’re back in California.” “It must be very difficult to be away from them.” “I suppose so. Um, Chad. You’re a very good looking man.” “Thank you.” “I sort of make it my business to know about the people around me, you know, no surprises. You’ve had a colorful past. But one that makes me think you’ve got a particular skill set.” She reaches up and rubs his well-formed and solid chest packed tightly in a cotton shirt. “I’m sorry Mrs. Barkley, I don’t think . . .” “I’m not asking that you think.” With her other hand she rubs his crotch. “I’m asking that you perform. You can do that, it would seem.” Chad backs up. “You’re very beautiful, but . . .” “I don’t really care what I am. What I’m interested in is what you are. Now you can agree to this or family can see the videos I’ve seen of you. Pretty racy stuff. Maybe your wife’ll get into it. Might really embrace everyone else, your kids.” “Please Mrs. Barkley. That was a long time ago. My life was . . .” “You don’t need to explain. It’s nothing more than a performance, just between you and me. But I don’t like to be told no, ever. Take your shirt off.” He hesitates and then peels his shirt off over his head. Sophie grins. “You’re beautiful.” Mattie walks into Arnold’s studio. Arnold’s naked and covered in paint. Various colored body smudges cover the enormous canves in front of him. Mattie says, “Oh my. Talk about throwing yourself into your work.” Arnold turns around, surprised to see him but not modest about his appearance. “Mattie. What are you doing here?” “I don’t know. What’s with the painting?” “I don’t know. I can’t seem to think of anything so I did this.” “It’s interesting.” “I don’t know about that.” Mattie says, “But put the name Arnold Chi, the wondering, every allusive nomad, and it’ll sell for far more than the cost of the average house in D.C.” “It probably would. But I don’t think I’ll sell it.” “No?” “No. Would you like it?” “A painting with shadows of your nude body all over it? Maybe I would. I’ll have to move. I’ll need a bigger wall.” “Then it’s yours. But I won’t sign it. That way it’s not a horribly expensive gift, it’s just a throwaway canvas.” Mattie laughs. “You’re something else, you know it. You really are.” “I like to think so.” “Any way, you spoke the other day at the diner about hacking.” “I probably should have.” “No. No I’m glad you did. What you said, it probably needs to get out there. People need to know. And, well I can get the attention of credible news sources and keep your name out of it.” “I don’t know.” “Well, just think about it. In the meantime, I’m going to a fundraiser tonight for the Education for All Foundation. And I was wondering if maybe you’d like to be my date?” “I don’t know. I don’t so well at those sorts of things.” Arnold begins to clean up the things around him, more a way of keeping busy then making a dent in the mess of art supplies around him. “Besides, if I’m going to be your source, should we be seen together?” “If the enemy cannot find you, you may hide in plain sight.” “You know the Art of War.” “If they cannot see your strength or know your plans, they may make foolish moves.” “In deed they might,” Arnold says, putting down the stuff he was straightening, giving full attention to Mattie. “All warfare is based on deception, hence when we are able to attack, we must seem unable. When using our forces, we must appear inactive; when we are near, we must make the enemy believe we are far away; when we are far away, we must make him believe we are near.” “So is that a yes?” “Yes. Yes, I’ll go with you to this thing of yours.” Cars roll up in front of a restaurant in Washington, D. C. and valets take them away after their passengers get out, well dressed, Washington’s elite, including Senator Sumner by himself. Greg is greeted at the door by a couple who are thrilled he’s able to attend what they think is a very important cause. “I heard that the Ewing’s are your biggest donners, so I couldn’t resists finding out more, what magic you have to bring over the dark side.” The couple laughs. She says, “Oh John Ross came to us. He said he hear about what we were doing and wanted to jump on board. He had all sorts of ideas that frankly we didn’t think could pass.” “Well, you know you’ve got my vote. It’s a great piece of legislation.” Greg pats the man on the should and walks in. Inside the restaurant Jacobi and Sophie walk over to Mattie and Arnold. John Ross says, “I see your father is here,” to Arnold. “Oh of course he is. This bill is the biggest thing he’s had a chance to jump on since the Affordable Care Act. With your father behind it, I’m expect it to get even more watered down.” “Oh my father’s add to it. And helped line up the bipartisan support. I’m headed over to Senator Hardtack’s after this to talk to him about supporting the bill.” “Senator Hardtack? Your father doesn’t really think he can get Senator Hardtack to support Education for All, does he?” “I give you my word, he does. He’s sending me over to deliver the message.” Sophie takes Arnold’s arm and pulls him away, saying, “We’ll be right back.” Off to the side, walking through the standing room only crowd, Sophie says, “What in the world are you doing here? Of all the people I can think of which would surprise me to see here, and still I wouldn’t have thought of you.” “Mattie asked me.” “Mattie asked you? And that’s it. How long are you staying in D. C.?” “I don’t know. Right now I just need a place to stay put.” “Are you alright?” “Yes of course.” “It’s just, well, Arnold, you’ve walked this entire planet and all of a sudden you’re staying put and attending political fundraisers. What’s your family say?” “I’m staying at my uncle’s house.” “Well I know that.” “Are you seeing that Ewing guy?” “Jacobi? No. Nothing like that. But together people do notice us. And that’s why you attend these things. To be noticed.” “I’m just here because Mattie asked me.” “Well, I can tell you everyone’s talking about Arnold Chi showing up the second you walked through that door. Spotting you is a bigger thing among this people than finding Waldo. And if you’re with Mattie, the son of a Senator just got a whole lot more attention.” “It’s not like that. Not everyone is using everybody else, Sophie.” “Well I don’t know about that. But I know you’re my friend. So, if you need anything. I’m here for you.” “I’m probably the only person in the world that would here that from you and can honestly believe it.” “It’s true. I don’t want to see you get hurt.” “I know, Sophie. I won’t. And if I do, like all the other times, I’ll come running to you and you can beat them up.” “I never beat anyone up. I mean not personally.” She smiles and laughs, holding tight to Arnolds arm. “So you think walking around here with you has got him enough notice?” “Oh so you’re the one using me.” “You knew that when I told your arm. Jacobi thinks he’s the one everyone around here is talking about, the son of John Ross Ewing showing up to the most liberal event in D. C. in ten years.” “So did our stroll help you one up your date?” Sophie laughs, “Oh I’ve missed you Arnie. I’ve missed you so much.” Later that evening at a much smaller gathering at very large house of Senator Hardtack Jacobi and Sophie enjoy a few small snacks and glasses of wine. “Not Falcon Crest Wine?” he asks. “No. In fact, a pretty inferior product.” “Is everything inferior to Falcon Crest wines?” “No of course not. But this is. But what do you expect. Look at this room. They hired some magazine editor to decorate it for effect.” “And the effect isn’t working for you?” “No that’s the problem. By design it’s meant to impress, so it just simply never can.” “I see. Can you excuse me. I need to speak to Senator Hardtack.” Alone, together, in a closed door library Jacobi says, “Senator Hardtack, my father asked me to speak to you about the Education for All bill.” “Tell him no worries. It won’t make it out of committee.” “No that’s just it. He wants it out of committee, on the floor and on the President’s desk very quickly.” “You’re joking.” “Not at all. My father believes one of the most important functions of a capitalist government is to provide the funds for education.” “Well that’s not going to happen.” “Senator Hardtack. My father is dyslexic. He can barely read. I’m serious about that. But there are two books he owns that are well worn. A copy of the Art of War that came from his father, J. R. Ewing, and a copy of the Wealth of Nations which came from his stepfather, Don Lockwood, the Lord Maitland. Now in that second book, Adam Smith is very clear about the role government plays in funding education.” “Listen, I don’t give ant’s piss what some book says about funding education. We’re talking a lot of money which will require a lot of taxes and I’m not supporting any bill that will force us to raise taxes.” “Well, not from my father, but I’d be happy to talk to myself about a GST.” “Would you now. See I’m thinking your father isn’t very supportive of this Education for All Bill. I’m thinking it’s you. And you’re just coming here to use his name. But I’m not that stupid, boy.” “No that’s not true.” “Well, I think it is. So we’re done here. Go and tell your daddy I said Education for All can f**k off and die.” The senator walks out of the room. The next day the Senate Education committee begins to argue about the Education for All bill and Senator Hardtack slams his gavel several times calling for order. Senator Sumner says, “You better believe this time next week, I’ll be holding that gavel.” Senator Hardtack snaps back, “Why, you planning on stealing another election?” “Not at all Senator. The people, the real people of this country with a brain in their head looking to educate their children, they’re gonna hand us the majority in this chamber and don’t you think for one second you’re not the only one who can play hardball.” “That a threat Mr. Sumner?” “Statement of fact. This bill is good for this country, for our businesses, for our people. And you’re tryin’ kill it so a bunch of your low life friends can keep a few more billion in their pockets.” “We’re all wealthy men sitting at this table, Senator Sumner.” “Yeah I’ve noticed, wealthy, old white men. But some of us are so god damn greedy.” Senator Hardtack walks into his office complaining to his stay that follows that if they don’t win Iowa, “Game over. They’ll create five more states in a few months, all Democrat, and Game over.” A woman says, “Senator. Mr. Ewing is waiting in your office.” “Of good. I need a friendly face.” He walks in and shuts the door. “John Ross. Good to see you. We need to talk. Iowa. I’m told you haven’t contributed a dime. What’s going on?” “My son told me your response to the Education for All Act.” “And?” “So, I flew all the way out here to correct your thinking. I did send him to talk to you. I do support it and I expect you to as well.” “Well that’s not gonna happen. So what about Iowa.” “I’ve made a contribution to the Democratic Party of Iowa.” “That a threat? Cause I’m really sick of threats today.” “I don’t threaten people. That’s a fact. A done deal actually. The problem isn’t am I getting this bill passed. The problem is can I count on your to make it happen?” “No.” “You’re telling me no?” John Ross walks right up to the man. “You know I’ve always considered you a Ewing asset. But my daddy always told me, a man’s got to know when to sell and when to buy.” “You’re not your daddy.” “No, I’m not. Senator, do you honestly think that Bower is the only one who knows your secrets? We know who gave him those secrets. But do you know how those people got their hands on that information?” “Again more threats.” “Not at all. A done deal. I just want to make sure you know it was me who closed the deal. And I want you to talk. Tell everybody you know. A hanging ain’t no good unless it’s a public hangin’.” Good day Senator Hardtack.” John Ross walks out of his office just as several minute walk into the out office flashing badges. Hardtack stands at the door. “What is this?” “Ashely Hardtack, you’re under arrest. You have the right to remain silent. You have the right . . .” The Senator puts up a fight as two other men manhandle him and handcuff him, shoved up against the door jam. John Ross walks out of the office. A Sunday morning television news panel talks over each other. “President Bower is under arrest for tax evasion, along with a dozen other people in his administration, and now Senator Hardtack. Is this the Democrats trick, catch everyone on tax technicalities?” “The Truesdale report doesn’t mentioned Senator Hardtack but does allude to information flowing from Russia to Bower to use against member of his own party.” “There are recordings. God damn recordings of meetings!” “They stole the election and now they’re out to crucify him and his disciples. It’s a witch hunt. All the while we ignore President Bouton meeting with the Chinese. The single greatest threat to this country and they’ve bought and paid for our president.” “What about Iowa?” “What about Puerto Rico, Columbia, Southern California?” “What about Iowa?” “What about Texas?” “What the hell is going on in this country?” End of Episode 1 [/QUOTE]
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