Old Friends

JR sat on the balcony of his Italian hotel, watching the flock of pigeons pecking at the otherwise glistening streets for pieces of bread. All was not well with his heart. Although in one of the world’s most beautiful cities, and with a caring companion, something was missing from his life. He couldn’t quite figure out what it was.

He turned to watch as Vanessa put the finishing touches to her dinner outfit. She looked to him for approval and he smiled. She did look…nice. But in a sisterly way. As much as he hated to admit it, JR didn’t feel the raw, magnetic passion that he had felt for so many years with….with ….. it just wasn’t there. As much as she wanted to be sexy to him, she just wasn’t.

He couldn’t shake the feeling of discontent gnawing at his mind. As Vanessa finished dressing, JR picked up a copy of USA Today that he had requested be sent to the room. Leafing through it, he came across an article which took his breath away. It was as though he had completed a crossword puzzle, or the price of oil had rocketed beyond belief. The moment he saw it he realized what was wrong with him. He couldn’t help but stare at the picture of the beautiful woman, who he swore was looking back at him. Reading the article, his heart skipped a few beats as he realized she was closer than he thought. She was here. And he would find her.


The primary reason for the trip to Italy was a huge benefit organized by OPEC. All the leading figures from the world’s oil industry would be there. JR had invited Vanessa to accompany him as in his words “You are from Europe anyway”, Bobby brought along Julia, Andy Bradley and Jordan Lee came along for the ride – minus Marilee Stone who was nursing a hip injury, and Cliff Barnes had decided it was no show without punch and had booked himself into the same hotel as JR – JR insisting on moving rooms when he realized he could see Cliff from his balcony.

During the meal that night, JR did his best to laugh and joke with the others. Bobby was in top form, knowing that his brother would make any woman feel comfortable as long as it wasn’t Pam, Vanessa and Julia chatted like mother and daughter, Julia admiring Vanessa’s worldly experience. JR, as much as he tried to hide it, was distracted beyond belief.

He felt his eyes wander and his ears open every time he heard a voice like hers. Every time he saw hair like hers, or smelt perfume like hers. Was she here? Could she see him? If she could, would she speak, or would she run away?

Bobby noticed JR's apparent lack of interest in his food. He looked at his brother with concern, asking if he was alright.

"Oh sure" JR said, forcing a smile. "I guess I'm just thinking about the conference"

Vanessa squeezed JR's hand. He squirmed inside. "Try to enjoy the evening JR. Business can wait".

But JR wasn't even thinking about business. All he could think of was her. One way or another, he had to find her.

Meanwhile in an expensive hotel not too far away, a beautiful woman was getting ready for her own evening on the town. Brushing her silky hair, adjusting her jewelry and adding her lipstick, she took one last look in the mirror and smiled at herself. She had to admit, she looked wonderful.

Turning around to face the bed, she lifted the newspaper for the tenth time that day. Although she couldn't speak Italian, she didn't need a dictionary to decipher the four letters that stood out in bold writing in front of her; OPEC. Nor did it take her eyes long to trace the name JR Ewing, a name which stabbed through her heart like a knife.

She knew he was here. Part of her wanted to hide away, but the newest part of her wanted him to see her...she wanted to see him. What would happen if she did? A smile wandered over her face as she let her imagination fantasize about a holiday romance.

Shaking herself out of her dreams, she lifted a light jacket and left the room, pulling it shut tight behind her. She had given her staff the night off, wanting to spend some time alone, sightseeing and visiting the shops. As the head of a successful fashion empire, she was always on the lookout for the newest styles - for the business, and for herself.

The elevator reached the ground floor, and she waited for the doors to open. In the restaurant opposite, JR continued his adventure into his own imagination. He kept up conversation, but his mind was truly elsewhere. He heard the ding of the elevator and just by chance was looking straight ahead as the doors opened. When they did, his heart, his brain... everything went into overdrive. She was standing in front of him - 20 feet away, but he knew it was her. And she had never looked more beautiful.

His vision was only momentary. Within seconds she had gone. He wondered was he dreaming. Had he really seen her? Or was it someone else he hoped was her? He couldn't take the chance of not knowing. He quickly excused himself, telling the others he had just seen a business associate and needed to urgently speak with "him" before tomorrow. Vanessa and Bobby protested but in the end knew they were fighting a losing battle when it came to JR and business.

Walking as fast as he could, he just caught a last glimpse of her as she left in her key at reception, briefly spoke with the clerk and turned and walked away. Her hair was partly masking her face but he knew by her stance, her walk, the entire way she carried herself...he knew it was her. 3 long years since he had even spoken to her. He knew he had to put things right.

JR continued to walk through the lobby and just saw a glimpse of her as she went through the turnstile. His heart skipped a beat as he saw her hair catch the wind, and she threw a glance to her side, only further confirming who she was.

Something prevented him from chasing her. He didn't know whether it was fear or not. Fear of rejection, of getting knocked back...or just the plain fear that if she was too close to him he might become so overwhelmed that he wouldn't know what to do. Yes, even the mighty JR Ewing could be reduced to jelly in her presence.

Something else occurred to him. What if that was a one off? What if that one, single, solitary moment was all he would get? His heart raced inside his chest so much that he thought he would collapse. His palms were sweating, his mouth dry...he just didn't know what to do. How was this possible? How was it possible that he was afraid...afraid to approach someone who had once been so big a part of his life that it was almost indescribable? So many emotions filled his body. Surely the fact that he was feeling like this could only mean that the thing that he had denied so long, was actually true? That he loved her? That his existence without her had actually been a false one?

He was staring at nothing now. She was gone. Noticing his stance, the concierge approached him and asked,

"Senor Ewing...are you alright?"

Snapping out of his trance, JR managed a smile and said "Yes" before he realized the answer was right in front of him. Maybe this was her hotel! JR was not normally so slow on the uptake, but surely it was possible?

Going to the nearby desk the receptionist looked up and smiled politely.

"Miss.." JR began, looking over his right shoulder to make sure that he wasn't being watched. "Could you tell me...that lady you spoke to...is she staying here...is she a guest at this hotel?"

"Yes Senor"

"Can you tell me her name?" JR asked. It seemed ridiculous..he knew her name...but he had to be sure.

The receptionist looked hesitant, obviously privacy was of great importance to the guests. JR leaned closer to her.

"Look, as you can tell, I'm American, and unless I am very much mistaken, so is she. I think I know her...all I want is a name"

The receptionist looked to the ground and then looked back.

"Senor, the lady is from Italy...her name is Rosa Nicassio"

JR's heart sank. It couldn't be right. It just couldn't be. He was so sure...and the picture only served to confirm it...what was going on?

"Rosa Nicassio?" JR said, puzzled. "Are you sure?"

The receptionist nodded. JR didn't know what to do next. He looked at the woman and she seemed sincere.

JR thanked her and walked slowly back to the restaurant. Maybe knowing she was in Italy was playing games with his mind. Maybe he just thought he saw her. If it wasn't her, he didn't have much time. He was only here for a week, and so was she. He had read that in the paper.

Vanessa was waiting anxiously as he walked in.

"JR, what kept you?" she asked.

"Oh...he kept me talkin', you know" JR said, forcing a smile.

"Who was it?" Bobby asked.

"Oh eh...he works for one of our European divisions..his name escapes me now...I'll introduce you tomorrow though" JR said.

Bobby suspected JR was lying but said nothing. He didn't want to make a scene and embarrass the ladies.

When dinner was over, JR signed the check and the party started on their way back to their hotel. Bobby and Julia were taking in the scenery and laughing. Vanessa had taken JR's arm and tried to make conversation but she was getting nothing from him but one word answers. The couples said goodnight once they reached their rooms. Once inside, Vanessa challenged JR.

"Are you going to tell me what's wrong?" she said, in her ever so refined English way.

"Nothin' darlin', I'm just preoccupied with the conference" JR said.

Vanessa approached him, taking his face in her hands.

"I bet I could take your mind off it" she smiled.

JR closed his eyes, trying to relax, but as soon as he did, the face which was haunting him was there instead of the woman he was actually with. It was her hands he felt, her touch, not Vanessa's. Worried that it would also be her body he would think of if they made love, he pulled away.

"Darlin..." he began "Would you mind if I just spent a little time alone..."

Vanessa looked hurt.

"It's not you..." JR forced himself to give her a kiss on the cheek. "I have to speak to a lot of people tomorrow...I need to get my head around what I'm going to say. Believe it or not, Ol'JR has a shy streak" he smiled.

Vanessa touched his face once more. "That's fine JR...if that's what you need to do". She tried to be understanding but her heart ached.

"I think I'll just have a drink at the bar..you know, get my head round things...I won't be late". His mind was already made up and he had lifted his jacket and was half way out the door. Vanessa refused to believe that she was the cause of his angst and began to get ready for bed.

Of course JR knew to cover his tracks. He wasn't really going to the bar but he told the barman he would tip him very generously if he covered for him, should Vanessa appear and start asking questions.

The odd thing about all of this was that no one else - not Bobby, not Jordan Lee, not Vanessa, not even that idiot Cliff Barnes - had got wind of the fact that she was here. JR felt his ego slightly bruised thinking, "If she knows I'm here...which she must, I mean...this conference is in all the papers and on all the TV stations...why hasn't she tried to find me?" Then he snapped himself out of it. "Why the hell should she try to find me?" he winced. "Look what I did to her..." His thoughts ran over and over in his head until he thought it would explode. If only she had realized that even the day she left that there was something inside of him saying "Stop her! Stop her!" But he just couldn't. His pride was just too great.

He walked through the cobbled streets in the warm night, not really knowing where he was going. It had been over an hour since the "sighting", she could be anywhere.

He just kept hoping if there was a god that she would appear in front of him. He had it all rehearsed in his head. He wouldn't let her get away..he just wouldn't allow it. Hell he would sacrifice the conference for just 5 minutes with her and that was saying something for JR Ewing. The love that had existed in his life while she was around just disappeared that day. And half of JR went with it.

Turning the corner of a dimly lit street, JR was suddenly almost blinded by lights. He could hear the sound of cheering coming from what appeared to be a huge warehouse. He didn't pay much attention at first, until he saw the banners outside. He was frustrated by the Italian and stopped a passer-by and asked for help. The young man was able to tell him that the translation was "Italian Fashion Week".

"Bingo" JR thought to himself and smiled.

So was she in there? The cheering and the dimming of the lights seemed to signal some sort of ending. The only thing he could think to do was wait.

Meanwhile, inside, she shook hands with what must have been the 200th person that night. She had had a wonderful evening, enjoyed every moment, but her own heart ached. She was in a city where, aside from her staff, she knew no one. She didn't speak the language, and she didn't have anyone she could truly open up to, no one who really knew her. Not like he did. Her past, her secrets, her pleasure, her pain... There had been other men but no one quite like him. She almost hit herself each time she allowed herself to fantasize about him in her hotel room. "It just is never going to happen again" she told herself.

Enjoying a celebratory drink with her firm, she was toasted for her good eye for all things beautiful. Reporters snapped her picture, she smiled, she smiled some more, and she was polite and courteous to everyone she met. But the passion was burning inside her. She had never really done anything that could be termed as "spontaneous...wild" and the urge was growing in her by the second.

She was one of the last to leave. The staff were going on to a club, but she was tired. She wanted to be left alone - with her dreams. Or at least to reason with herself.

Saying goodnight to the doorman, she stepped outside the building into the night. She hadn't far to walk and felt safe enough. There were plenty of people around.

She had just taken a few steps when something ahead of her grabbed her attention. She felt a mild wave of panic. There was an entry dead ahead of her which didn't look too inviting and she could just make out footsteps. Making sure there were at least a few people going in her direction, she began to walk. But she heard another footstep just as she passed by the street, lit only by a few old fashioned, Victorian style lamps. Her heartbeat increased. She couldn't help but look back and when she did the feeling she had could only be described as amazement.

The shadow of a man appeared on the wall. She couldn't see his face, but the shadow was taking up the entire side of the wall opposite where she had just been. There was no mistaking the build of the man...or the Stetson on his head. She stopped breathing...but didn't stop staring.

He smiled his most wicked smile as he stood there. He knew it was her. But he couldn't move. She couldn't move. To anyone watching, it would appear like a video game, the beautiful lady trying to escape the clutches of the villain, the villain trying to time his move to perfection so as to catch her. But of course no one but them knew what game they were playing.

Part of her wanted to run, the biggest part of her told her she should run, but this was a real case of Fight or Flight and she had chosen the Flight option once too often. She was different now. She had to confront this head on.

Without even thinking for her safety or her sanity, she took a few more steps. She stopped upon hearing more footsteps from the entry. The shadow grew smaller, oddly , the only thing to grow bigger was the familiar shaped hat. Not stupid enough to walk into a dark alley by herself, she didn't move any further. Talk about cat and mouse. She wasn't sure if she was the cat or the mouse. She desperately wanted to be the cat.

Realizing she had stopped, the footsteps in the alley drew closer again. The shadow grew.

And grew.

And grew.

Until she could make out a man. A sort of faceless man, yet with a stature tall enough and broad enough for her to be unmistakably sure who it was. Even in this light. Even after so many years. He didn't move. He couldn't. Even though he was in the dark to her, he could see her perfectly. She had light around her. She stood there like an angel and he swore that if he was dead he hoped this would be heaven. He could see her looking at him. She looked scared, cautious. He was afraid if he moved, she would run. What could he do to get her closer?

Of course, what was she afraid of? She knew in her heart it was perfectly safe to go into the alley. She knew nothing would harm her in there. But what she stood to lose by taking that step was just too great. If she took another step, she was in grave danger of losing herself.

He saw her hesitation. He could hear nothing in the busy night other than his own heart beat. One of them had to make a decision. He instinctively knew he should be him.

Suddenly, to his surprise, she turned the other way. She couldn't go through with it and she turned to leave. She didn't have to do this.

He only had a split second to react. He could go one of two ways. He could let her go..which he had before and regretted it ever since, or he could make her stay. He had never in his life felt a love so overwhelming...so overpowering that he couldn't even move.

Seeing her taking those furtive steps to leave, he finally spoke.

"It's me" were the only words that came out.

She froze. That voice.It just sent shivers down her spine.

"I know" she said loudly into the night air.

"Talk to me" he said, almost begging.

She turned round. "I can't see your face" she said.

"Come here" he said.

"How do I know I'm safe?" she asked him, almost teasing.

"You know you are" came the reply.

The excitement grew within her. He felt sick with nerves, yet exhilarated. She was no more than 3 feet away from him.

Taking those steps felt like the longest journey she had ever made. She walked slowly and stopped when he was so close to her she could smell his cologne.

Neither spoke but instead just looked at each other, examining one another as a small kitten would with something it has never seen - with wonderment.

"I can't believe you're here" he said.

"Well that makes two of us" she replied.

He didn't know what would happen next. Would she hit him? Would she spit in his face? Would she give him a peace of her mind and then leave?

No.

Instead she looked at him, straight in the eyes, promising herself she wouldn't get angry and said,

"It's so good to see you".

JR's heart leapt. She seemed to really mean what she said.

"Can we go somewhere to talk?" he asked, hoping.

Something against her better judgement made her say yes.

Although both felt slightly awkward, there was such an air of familiarity that they caught themselves on a few times, almost touching. After a few minutes walk, they found a quiet secluded cafe, with only a couple of other people inside.

"What would you like?" he asked.

She looked at him. It was only in the full light that she saw his face. His blue eyes sparkled like the sapphire earrings she had seen earlier at the fashion show. She found herself just mesmerized by him.

"Cappuccino" she said.

JR ordered one for himself and they found a table in a quiet corner where they wouldn't be disturbed - or seen.

She licked some of the cream from the top and as he watched her tongue he melted once more.

She looked at him.

"So" he said.

"So" she said.

"What brings you to Italy?" he asked.

Italian Fashion Week" she said.

JR knew that already, but played along.

"I should have known" he smiled. "You always had an eye for fashion"

She laughed "Yeah...me and clothes and you and...oil..you're here for the conference right?"

JR was surprised she knew that. "How did you know that?" he asked smiling.

"I keep tabs on you" she teased.

Their eyes met.

"I read it in the paper" she said.

"So who is this Rosa person?" JR asked.

"Who?"

"The strangest thing happened to me earlier. I thought I saw you in the hotel I was having dinner in, but when I asked after you, it turned out not to be you after all"

"It was me. Do you think you're the only one who uses a false name from time to time?" she smiled.

"Was it because of me?"

"Partly...I don't want people talking about us being in the same town at the same time. You know how rumors start...and I wasn't sure I wanted you to find me..."

"I think we found each other"

Silence. Sips of drinks, glances.

"Are you here alone?" she asked.

"Yeah..well...no"

"That means no. Who is she?"

JR sighed.

"That bad huh?" she said.

"I don't wanna talk about her. I'm out here in the middle of a strange country the night before an important conference and all I can think of is you" he said.

She blushed.

"Won't she wonder where you are?" she asked.

"Probably. I don't really care"

"Sounds familiar" she said smiling.

He took her hand.

"Can we just forget about everything and lose ourselves...just for one night..."

She looked deep into his eyes. It was getting much later and she had to be up early tomorrow.

"I have to go"

JR felt bitterly disappointed.

"But...if you want...you can come with me"

Ears, eyes...everything...pricked up.

"To where?" he asked astonished, overwhelmed by the excitement of it all.

"My hotel"

If someone had hit JR around the head with an oil well he wouldn't have felt it at this moment. He expected to wake up at any moment.

"Are you serious?"

"Very...unless of course you are anxious to get back..."

With that JR lifted his Stetson from the table, slid his hand over hers and pulled her to her feet. This was one of the most risqué things she had ever done and it felt oh so exciting. For him too....

They walked along the cobbled streets as though they were dancing. Neither thought this was real. JR decided to take a chance and under the dim light of an old fashioned street lamp, pulled her to him.

"I want to kiss you" he said.

She just looked at him. When she didn't say anything he felt it was ok to proceed.

Taking her face in his hands, he softly touched her lips with his own. Both of them sighed deeply at the touch of each other.

Neither of them could have seen the flash of the bulb that had just gone off behind them.

Breaking away she said "You feel just like I remembered"

"And you just taste as delicious" he whispered.

"I've missed you" she said.

JR closed his eyes and pulled her closer, breathing in the scent of her hair. "I'd have gone to the moon and back for one more night with you" he said.

She took his hand and they began walking towards the hotel. Everything about the moment felt so familiar, yet so new at the same time. The touch of each others hands, the smell of each other, different reactions and sayings that both were so used to, and that both had missed.

She asked for the key to her room and noticed the smile on the receptionists face as she put two and two together.

"I'm glad you found her" whispered the girl to JR.

JR was so happy he slid her a huge tip.

The tension in the elevator was unbelievable.Neither of them wanted it to be like a one night stand, so the touching was minimal, except for a few strokes of her hair or a caress of his face.

As she slid the pass key into the lock and the light showed green, he pushed the door open. Both remained silent. She went to the window and pulled the drapes, he tossed his Stetson on the couch and loosened his tie.

She turned to him. His eyes met hers and she said,

"I don't know what happens after tonight...but right now I just want you so much"

He walked over to where she was standing and very gently slid both her earrings off her ears. His hand caressed from her cheek, to her chin, down to her neck and to the first button of her blouse. She closed her eyes enjoying the sensation. He began kissing her, gently at first then as the passion grew, the kissing became more ferocious, faster, harder...

She slid his tie off and let his jacket fall to the floor.

"I want you to do it to me here..." she whispered

"Right here?" he asked.

"Yes" she whispered into his ear, kissing it as she did so.

Her wish was his command. Taking both her arms and holding them over her head he held her hands in place with his own and continued to kiss her. She frantically reached for his belt, undoing it first, then his pants to reveal what she wanted. He smiled with pleasure as she tried to free herself from his clutches to no avail. He teased her by coming close enough that she could feel him pressing against her.

"How many times in the last three years have you dreamt of this moment?" he asked.

"Almost every goddamn night" she told him.

He continued to kiss her.

"Does it turn you on that you are the only woman I think about?" he asked.

"Even when you've been with other women?" she said, gasping for air.

"It's your body I think of...your breasts I dream of..your face..your legs...your...."

And with that he pushed himself inside her. He held her in place up against the wall, and tore off what was left of her blouse revealing one breast which he squeezed tightly. The table beside them suffered the full effect of their playtime as perfume bottles, magazines, toiletries went to the floor. After a few minutes JR maneuvered her so that she was lying on the table, him standing above her.

"No one has ever made me feel the way you make me feel" she breathed heavily.

JR held on to her waist, "I have thought about this for so long" he moaned.

"Do whatever you want to me" she groaned. "Show me what I've been missing..."

And he did. For hours. It was the most amazing night either of them had had in a long long time. As the sun began to set over the beautiful village, they had made their way to the bed. Just as JR went over the edge for the fourth time, taking her with him, he pushed himself deep inside her, held her hand and said her name over and over...

"Sue Ellen...Sue Ellen...Sue Ellen...."

The next morning, Sue Ellen woke with JR curled in behind her. For a second she was transported to their marriage, then remembered where she was.

JR felt her moving and roused himself.

She felt his hand slide down her thigh and she sighed softly. He began to kiss her neck, and nibble at her ear.

Seconds later they were embroiled in a passionate kiss. JR sighed..she tasted so good.

Sue Ellen whispered "What time is it?"

"Time doesn't matter" JR said.

Sue Ellen glanced at the bedside clock. 7.30am.

With that, she pulled him closer to her and wrapped her long legs around him. It was all the invitation JR needed as they slowly began to make love..again.

************************************************************

Meanwhile in a hotel room not too far away, Vanessa Beaumont was roused by the ringing of the telephone.

"Hello?" she said drearily.

"Good morning madam...this is your 7.30 alarm call".

"Thank you" she said, and began to realize for the first time that JR had not been back that night.

*************************************************************

Sue Ellen pulled on her jacket, ready to start her day. She felt relaxed and satisfied. JR stood beside her at the door and said,

"This can't end with just one night...it can't"

Sue Ellen looked him deep in the eyes.

"I don't know what to do" she said honestly.

JR kissed her tenderly.

"It just all feels right" he said.

She smiled. She knew that.

"You have your conference today" she told him.

JR rolled his eyes. He would much rather just spend the day with her.

"And I have to go too" she said quietly. She opened the door. JR stepped outside.

"What are you going to tell her?" Sue Ellen asked.

JR raised his eyebrows like the lovable cad that he was.

"Let me think" Sue Ellen laughed "You took a walk, you stumbled upon some old pals that knew your daddy...."

JR slid his arms around her waist, pushing her up against the wall. "I'm sorry"

They looked at each other.

"I can't believe I'm your other woman" Sue Ellen smiled seductively.

"Darlin...you will never be just my other woman" he said and held her face in his hands, kissing her passionately.

Sue Ellen felt herself becoming turned on by him and whispered in his ear "Can I be your secret lover?"

JR had to hide the bulge in his pants from passing guests.

They both laughed when the people had passed.

Sue Ellen kissed him on the cheek. "Good luck today" she said, stroking his face.

Then she left.

"Sue Ellen...." he whispered after her.

She turned around.

Their eyes met once more. She blew him a kiss. With that she was gone.

JR watched her. She was so incredible. Even though he had showered he had last night’s clothes on and could still smell her Chanel no 5 off them.

Then the reality of what had happened started to dawn on him. Unless he got a move on...he was going to have a lot of explaining to do.

As he got back to his hotel, he thought he was safe until he saw his brother coming out of the elevator.

Bobby clocked him and walked over.

"Well!" he said "You look like you've had the time of your life"

JR quietened him, gesturing with his hand.

"I need your help Bob" he said.

"Oh what have you done now?" Bobby said.

"I didn't come home last night" JR said.

"JR..." Bobby rolled his eyes.

"Yeah, listen there's no time to explain...if Vanessa asks... we were both out with old friends of daddy's..."

"JR that's the oldest excuse in the book! Who is she?" Bobby asked. He knew his brother too well.

"Bob! Why would you assume there's anybody?" JR said.

"Because I can smell her perfume...it reminds me..." Bobby started to think as JR held his collar and sniffed it. If he closed his eyes long enough, she was right there with him.

Just at that the elevator doors opened and Vanessa and Julia walked out.

Seeing JR, Vanessa walked straight over.

"JR..." she began.

"Oh it was a hell of a night wasn't it Bobby?" JR launched straight into his speech.

Bobby just laughed comically. Julia looked at him questioningly.

Bobby just winked at her.

"Where on earth where you?" Vanessa asked.

"Oh I'm sorry darlin, I really am"JR said, bringing himself to kiss her on the cheek. "Bobby and I met up with some old friends of daddy's last night and time just got away from us"

Vanessa didn't know what to say. She smiled and said "A phone call would have been nice"

"I'm sorry" JR said "Well, I had better go change. See you folks in a while"

JR hurried back to the elevator. Removing his jacket once he got to the room, he held it to his face and breathed in deeply. There was no other woman in the world who smelled as good as she did. Reaching inside his jacket pocket he pulled out a picture and stared at it. Sue Ellen smiled back at him. No one knew that wherever he was, whatever he did, that photograph was always with him.

Trying his hardest to set his mind upon the task at hand, JR took one last look at the photo and put it inside his new jacket. He looked good. Some of the tension lines that had been on his forehead prior to today had gone. Lifted, erased with the passion of last night.

He left the hotel room, thinking of her with every step that he took. It all seemed so unreal at the moment, but reality set in every few seconds, almost making him panic. Could they really do this? Could they start over? Or would they be destined to live their lives having this elicit and exciting affair?

JR thoughts were snapped back to the moment by Bobby shouting at him to hurry up once he reached the lobby.

Vanessa took his arm and JR attempted a smile. Vanessa wasn't stupid. She knew something was up. She just wasn't sure what.

Meanwhile, Sue Ellen walked through the offices of Ralph Lauren Italy absolutely glowing. She could still feel the pressure of last night pressing between her legs. She smiled. She couldn't believe herself what she had done. Part of her felt panicked and scared. She knew that JR wouldn’t let her go now. It could be a one off with a man she hardly knew, but she had seen the way JR looked at her last night. He wanted her. Not just for tonight, or tomorrow, but she knew that she was his forever. In one way or another.

But then, she'd always known that.

JR beamed at his conference. Delivering his speech with more style and confidence than anyone had ever seen, he was definitely in charge.

Stepping down from the podium to rapturous applause, Bobby took him to one side.

"Whoever she is she must be really something" he whispered with a cheeky grin that only a younger brother could have.

"Huh?" said JR trying to feign surprise.

"Come on JR. You haven't spoken in public in 2 years. You HATE speaking in public..and now suddenly you're standing up there like the President speaking to Congress"

"Just feelin' happy Bob...just feelin' happy" JR said and walked over to greet one of his fans.

Meanwhile in the corner of the room, Cliff Barnes had just picked up some new information. With a grin on his face the size of Texas, he sauntered over to the Ewing party and at the top of his voice announced:

"Well JR sure picked the right week to come to Italy didn't he?"

"Barnes what are you talking about now?" said Bobby.

"I'm talking about Sue Ellen"

"What about Sue Ellen?" said Bobby.

With that JR's ears pricked up and he turned around to face Cliff.

"She's here. In Italy. Boy that's going to rock JR's boat a little isn't it?" Cliff said in his maniacal laugh and disappeared into the crowd before JR could stop him.

With that, everything clicked into place for Bobby. He gave his brother a knowing look and JR shook his head very slightly begging Bobby not to say anything.

An awkward silence filled the small group despite the noise around them. Vanessa looked to JR and said,

"Did you know she was here?"

"Eh..no, no I didn't. It's not important anyway, surely...probably won't even see her" JR said.

Vanessa tried to test him but it didn't work.

"Wonder what she's doing here?" Bobby said playing along.

"Who knows? Eh..Bobby I think I just saw Geirhart Folkstein from FFD. Let's go see him about that Germany deal.."

Bobby followed JR as Julia said,

"Did you know Sue Ellen Ewing?"

"No..no I didn't."

"You seem uncomfortable" Julia said

"Well..she and JR were married for a long time. Imagine how you would feel if Bobby's ex-wife turned up"

Julia was shocked.

"I'm sorry. I didn't mean to be so abrupt" said Vanessa. "There's just something about Sue Ellen Ewing that makes me very nervous".

"Well she is beautiful" said Julia, getting her own back without even realising it.

Vanessa smiled slightly and followed JR with her eyes. Something wasn't right.


Across town, Sue Ellen's assistant, Kiki, looked at her and said,

"I think there's something you need to see"

"Oh?" said Sue Ellen, lifting her head from patterns of the latest autumn styles.

Kiki handed her a newspaper, once again, written in Italian, but the picture, on the front page, was very clear.

"Shit" said Sue Ellen.

Kiki attempted a reassuring smile.

The photograph showed very clearly a couple kissing, although their faces weren't very clear due to bad lighting. What could be made out however was the man's Stetson. JR's trademark. Sue Ellen's face was shadowed by his but the newspapers had gone to all sorts of lengths, even inviting readers to Guess Who Famous Oilman is kissing extravaganza.

"I take it it's you" said Kiki.

"Can you speak Italian?" Sue Ellen asked.

"A bit..." she scanned it. "It says something about famous oil baron JR Ewing and mysterious lady friend"

Sue Ellen covered her face with her hands.

"I didn't know we were being watched" she said.

"You can't tell it's you" Kiki offered.

"Yeah but it's gonna cause problems for him" Sue Ellen said.

"I wouldn't think so" Kiki said. "It's an Italian newspaper. It's rare that anyone you know would even see it. All the Americans will be reading their copies of USA today."

Which had just gone to press. And was headed straight for Dallas.

As Dallas commuters popped their quarters and dimes into newspaper stands everywhere, tongues were beginning to wag and the rumor mill was starting to grind.

From USA Today to The Dallas Press and beyond, the front and middle pages of nearly every tabloid and national newspaper had headings such as "JR strikes Gold", "That's Amore!" and "Oil Baron's Mystery Beauty".

None of the local oil industry were in town to see it but when a newspaper landed in the mail box at Southfork Ranch, Ellie Farlow gasped,

"Oh JR..." she sighed.

In various locations around the city, people were taking bets as to who it could be, even taking out pocket torches and magnifying glasses to try to get a closer view of the woman's face.

Meanwhile, Sue Ellen had excused herself from her Italian based office for an hour and tried to locate her ex-husband.

Keeping her head down low as she passed a crowd of journalists outside the fashion show headquarters, she quickened her pace.

Entering a side street, she took out her cell phone.

*************************************************************

JR was having a mid morning coffee with what he hoped would be future business associates when he felt his cell phone vibrate. Excusing himself, he walked to a small alcove for privacy.

Answering it he said,

"I miss you. I can't stop thinking about you. I have been having coffee with some business associates...and I haven't a clue what they have said to me. I just can't concentrate"

Sue Ellen's heart skipped a beat. "I need to see you"

"Oh I need to see you too" he laughed in his most boyish of ways.

"Meet me at my hotel in an hour" Sue Ellen said, and hung up.

JR felt the blood rushing to his loins. Nothing else mattered now. His Sue Ellen was here. And she was all he needed.

Sue Ellen sat on the corner of her bed, holding several newspapers. She cursed herself for being so careless. Every European newspaper made reference to it. It was funny. During JR's time with Cally not once, aside from their initial marriage, did the two of them ever make headlines. But JR and Sue Ellen - they made headlines whatever they did. Reporters wanted to know what Sue Ellen ate for breakfast, what color of underpants were her favorite, how many times a week she thought it was healthy to have sex... next to Princess Diana, Sue Ellen Ewing was probably the most photographed woman on the planet.

She spread the papers out and examined them. In most of the pictures, it wasn't apparent who she was. That is, in most of them. In one, a newspaper based in France, Sue Ellen's eyes had been taken at a close up angle, as she looked at JR. She felt it couldn't be too long before someone twigged it was her. She wasn't quite sure what she was afraid of, but she didn't want a whole scandal.

There was a knock at the door. She gave herself a quick check in the mirror, then went to open it. JR stood in the doorway. He looked so handsome.

Neither of them spoke as Sue Ellen ushered him inside. JR looked to the bed, then back to her. It was like neither of them knew what to do next, even though both had one very distinct thing on their minds.

"No work today?" JR finally said.

"Oh..yes...but I needed to show you something" she said.

JR smiled lustfully.

She directed his attention to the newspapers on the bed.

"Oh..." he frowned.

"I think we have a problem" she told him.

"No" he said.

"No?"

"I mean..."oh" as in is that the only reason you wanted to see me?"

"Well..." she began.

He turned to her.

"Because I don't care Sue Ellen!"

"JR our faces are over nearly every European newspaper. It's very obvious that it's you!!"

"I don't care!" he laughed.

"Why?" she said amazed.

Pulling her to him he said, "Why should I care if I'm seen kissing the woman I love?"

"Oh JR..." she sighed.

"What is it?" he asked.

"I just never thought I would see you again" she said, touching his face.

"I knew I would see you again...I just had to"

"What are we going to do?" she asked.

"I have no idea!" he said laughing. "I really don't have a clue!"

Sue Ellen sat down on the bed. He sat beside her and took her hand.

"Sue Ellen, answer me one question"

"OK" she said.

"Do you love me?"

"You know I love you" she immediately said.

"And I love you...I think that's all we need to know" he said, moving in for a kiss.

As his lips met hers, he whispered, "Losing you is the biggest regret of my life"

As their kisses grew more passionate, Sue Ellen pulled away, saying,

"JR I'm sorry but I have to go"

JR sighed. Sue Ellen could see he was turned on and so was she, but she had to get back to her office.

"Don't go" JR said, tugging at her jacket.

She reached forward and kissed him passionately. Leaning forward, she whispered in his ear,

"If you meet me back here tonight...you might get what you really came here for today..."

JR smiled devilishly.

After the show, Sue Ellen did her usual meet and greet of the press and as she went to leave, was surprised to be met by Dan Hetherington, a CBS reporter.

Her heart sank.

"Hi Dan" she said.

"Hi Sue Ellen! Just here hoping to share in some of your success with you" he chirped.

Dan was undoubtedly one of CBS' most handsome, yet most cunning journalists. He ALWAYS had an ulterior motive under his charming guise.

"Oh..." Sue Ellen smiled. "It's going very well."

"Thanks to you. Will we be seeing any of what we have seen tonight back in the States?" he asked, thrusting the microphone under Sue Ellen's nose.

"Yes..as a matter of fact this year's big color will be lilac...doesn't matter if it's full on, or just accessorise..lilac is the thing!" Sue Ellen smiled.

She was on edge but trying so hard not to show it.

"Well that's it folks! The Queen of American Fashion has spoken so hopefully we will see her back home soon and she will bring the lilacs with her! One more thing Sue Ellen, your ex husband is in town..."

Sue Ellen's breath caught in her throat, but she maintained her smile.

She wasn't letting this little prick have the upper hand.

"Yes he is Dan" she said, cutting him off. "And I..." Inside her head Sue Ellen thought the words "banged him until he was in oblivion" but she thought better of it and continued,

"I believe we are having an affair"

Dan was stunned. He hadn't expected that.

"Well according to the papers" Sue Ellen went on, "A friendly kiss hello can be made to look like a full blown love affair"

Dan didn't know what to say.

"I have indeed bumped into my ex husband but this story is about my work isn't that right Dan?"

"Eh...yes! Yes! Well thanks for your time Sue Ellen! Back to you in the studio David!"

And with that a very satisfied Sue Ellen Ewing, Queen of Fashion, walked away.

Sue Ellen silently laughed to herself thinking "I've been wanting to one up that jerk for years".

She didn't want to walk amongst the crowds tonight so against her better judgment she took a quiet side street back to her hotel, excited at the thought of meeting JR.

Although it was dark, Sue Ellen could hear other people's voices and she could see the hotel in the distance so she felt safe enough.

As she passed by several boutiques admiring some of the stock in the window, she was grabbed by someone on her left hand side. The person put a hand over her mouth, dragging her into a doorway.

She immediately began to struggle, but the person was too strong. Her whole life flashed before her eyes as she desperately tried to free herself. Whoever it was, pinned her face forward against the hidden doorway, and began lifting up her skirt.

"Oh god no..." she managed to say. Rape. No...

The hand still over her mouth, the assailant began kissing her ear.

"Don't be scared" said the voice.

With that, the tears in her eyes, the terror in her heart turned to a combination of relief mixed with blood boiling anger.

Biting down on the hand which covered her mouth she spun round.

Standing staring at her, was JR.

She slapped him hard across the face.

"Are you CRAZY?!!!" she shouted.

"Ow..." JR mimicked a hurt child.

"You scared me half to death!" she shouted.

JR raised his eyebrows, pouting. This caused her to smile.

"I thought you were meeting me at my hotel" she said, lowering her voice.

"I couldn't wait.." JR said.

"Patience never was your strong point" Sue Ellen teased.

"Kiss my face better" he said.

"Aw..." Sue Ellen soothed, kissing his cheek gently. "Is that better? Hmmm?"

JR nodded. "Some more"

She kept kissing around his cheek until she brought her lips to his. As their lips met, the force of their passion pushed Sue Ellen back against the door, hidden away from passers by.

JR's hands roamed up Sue Ellen's skirt, as they did so she was already working at the zip of his pants.

"I want you...now" JR said. "Do you have any idea what you do to me?"

Without removing her panties, Sue Ellen guided him inside her and they did it..right there against the wall. They could hear the voices of passers by which only made it more exciting.

JR was astounded when Sue Ellen's own hand went to her little bud and began rubbing it.

"Oh baby..." JR said. "Yeah..."

"Oh do it to me...oh JR...yes...oh don't stop"

"You are the sexiest woman alive..." he muttered breathlessly.

"Oh JR...I'm gonna...oh...."

"Yes baby...oh yes..." he moaned, pulling her down and spinning her round, pumping into her from behind. He took charge now, touching her between her legs, biting on her ear. Her skirt was rolled up so he could just see a glimpse of her magnificent backside in the dim street light. He clutched one of her buttocks with the other hand.

She moaned..."Oh JR..."

Sue Ellen climaxed quite quickly as he kissed the back of her neck. Feeling this, JR soon followed. He leaned breathlessly on her and held her to try to stop her from shaking.

When they had composed themselves, they began walking hand in hand towards the hotel.

"JR what have you told your lady friend you have been doing with your time?" she asked.

"She doesn't need to know anything" he said. "Why?"

"I'm just curious."

"It really doesn't matter darlin'" he said, squeezing her hand.

"I just wondered"

"Are you worried about her?" JR teased.

"Actually...no. I guess I should know how she feels but..." Sue Ellen stopped and looked him directly in the eyes, "..I feel like I have nothing to justify"

JR kissed her. "That's exactly how I feel" he said.

Reaching the hotel, careful not to attract any attention, they slipped easily into the elevator.

"Will you spend the night?" Sue Ellen asked.

"Yes" JR smiled softly, pulling her to him and holding her. He kissed the top of her head lightly, breathing in the sweet smell of her hair.

The elevator dinged the correct floor. JR walked behind her to the room so that he could admire the view. Her skirt was a little wrinkled which made him smile.

Once inside, she took off her shoes and drew the curtains. JR came up behind her and kissed her softly on her neck.

"I'm hungry" she said.

JR suggested ordering room service which Sue Ellen thought was a splendid idea. After placing the order, they both slipped into the hotel robes. Sue Ellen let herself fall down onto the bed and sighed deeply.

JR lay down beside her, stroking her face.

Sue Ellen opened her eyes and looked at him.

"We've only got a few days left here" she said.

JR kissed her face. "I know"

Sue Ellen looked disappointed.

"You do realize it doesn't matter?" he said.

She looked confused.

"It really...doesn't...matter" he said between kisses.

They enjoyed a light supper, feeding each other sandwiches and snacks, laughing and kissing and joking with each other.

Sue Ellen eventually stood up and stepped out of her robe. Letting it fall to the ground she kept her back to JR. He realized once again how beautiful she was. He propped himself up on his elbow and just watched her.

"Can we go to bed now?" she asked, turning to face him.

He didn't really need an invitation, so he held out his hand to her and pulled her to the bed. When they were both naked, they climbed in and dimmed the lights. JR lay on his back and Sue Ellen nestled into him. They lay silently for a few minutes just holding each other.

JR felt a tear fall onto his chest and he lifted his head.

"What is it honey?" he asked with concern.

"Nothing" Sue Ellen whispered.

"Sue Ellen..." he said softly, moving so that he was side on, face to face with her. He saw the tears in her eyes and his heart ached.

"I love you JR" she said looking at him as a lost little girl would look for her momma.

He stroked her hair.

"I'm sorry if I never told you that much, but I love you so much"

Almost in a whisper, JR said "I love you too. I always have, and I always will"

As their lips met, Sue Ellen's long, silky leg arched up as JR's body moved closer to hers. Within seconds, their bodies had met and they slowly made love, neither one wanting to let go of the other.

They must have eventually nodded off to sleep. Somewhere in the middle of the night, JR was awakened by his cell phone ringing. He opened his eyes and could feel Sue Ellen's breath on him as she lay next to him.

Trying hard not to wake her, he scrambled for his phone in his jacket.

"Yeah?" he said quietly.

"JR it's Bobby..."

"Bob?" JR was confused. Looking at his watch, it was 12.30.

"Listen buddy I know you are with Sue Ellen, but I just wanted to warn you. Vanessa has been in an accident".

"What? What sort of an accident?" JR's voice rose slightly, and he noticed Sue Ellen move in the bed.

"She was hit by some dumb ass cab driver a little while ago. She went out to try to find you"

JR sighed. But felt no remorse. Looking at Sue Ellen he said,

"Where is she now Bob?"

"They've taken her to the local hospital...if you want I can come and get you"

JR didn't say anything. How could he go to Vanessa when the love of his life was right here in front of him?

"Bobby let me call you in 5 minutes" JR said

"OK.."

JR hung up.

Crossing the room, he sat at Sue Ellen's side. He couldn't just leave her in the middle of the night. He didn't know what to do for the best.

He watched Sue Ellen as she slept for a few more minutes. He refused to have her doubt him by sneaking out in the middle of the night, so he gently roused her awake.

"Hmmm...JR..what's wrong?" she asked.

"I gotta turn on the light sweetheart" he said.

He put it to the lowest setting possible.

"What's wrong?" she asked again.

"Sue Ellen...it's Vanessa...the lady who came with me...she has been in an accident"

Sue Ellen managed to sit up "Is she ok?"

"I'm not sure...I don't know what to do. I want to be with you...but..."

"You must go and see if she is ok" Sue Ellen said, touching his hand. "It's the right thing to do"

Seeing the confusion in his face, she leaned forward, sheet wrapped tightly around her and kissed him lightly. "Take the key...you can let yourself back in"

JR felt relieved. He kissed her again and pulled on his clothes. Just before he left the room he said,

"I promise I will come back"

Sue Ellen blew him a kiss. Reluctantly he called Bobby and told him to pick him up outside in ten minutes.

As JR crossed the lobby, bleary eyed and still smelling of Sue Ellen, he was struck by the most awesome, mind blowing feeling.

"What am I doing?" he thought. He stopped dead in his tracks. How many times over the past so many years had he left Sue Ellen alone whilst he went chasing off after other things? He loved Sue Ellen...not Vanessa.

"I love Sue Ellen" JR told himself "Yet here I am...after making love to her...leaving her alone while I go off to see if someone I don't love is ok..."

Bobby appeared in front of him "Are you ready?"

"I can't go Bobby" JR said.

"JR, I know what's going on but don't you think..."

"No Bobby...I can't. Sue Ellen is upstairs. I love her. Going to Vanessa now would be wrong in so many different ways. Tell her I'm sorry, and do let me know if she's badly hurt..."

"I think she's going to be ok..."

"I need to be with Sue Ellen, Bobby. I need to be here. I don't care if it's not the decent thing to do...it's what I have to do"

Bobby grasped his brothers arm almost in approval. Bobby loved Sue Ellen like a sister and was happy with his decision. He decided to go on and make sure Vanessa was ok. She'd be heartbroken, but sometimes life was just like that.

Slotting the key back into the door, Sue Ellen sat up in surprise.

"Are you back already? How is she?" Sue Ellen asked.

"I...em...I didn't go..." JR whispered, closing the door.

"You didn't? Why not?"

He sat down beside her, taking her hand. "Because I love you"

Sue Ellen's heart leapt. She watched him, reading his face for the emotions he was feeling.

"I love you so much Sue Ellen. I just couldn't go".

Pulling him towards her, she held him tightly. He slowly undressed again, and climbed into bed beside her. She smiled as she felt his body against her, he smiled as he felt her warmth. He lay on top of her and she held his head to her chest.

Outside on the tree by the window, a little squirrel gnawed with satisfaction on a nut, then as though pleased by what he had witnessed, hurried off down the trunk.

The next morning, as JR woke, he realized that Sue Ellen wasn't in the bed beside him. Scanning the room, and listening for her, he realized she wasn't there. Eventually seeing the note on the side table addressed to him, he picked it up.

It read, "Problem at work. Had to go to meeting. Didn't want to wake you. See you later. S xxx"

JR smiled and held the note to his bare chest. He could still smell Sue Ellen on the pillow and took a deep breath in. His thoughts momentarily went to Vanessa. He felt a pang of guilt and decided he should call the hospital. Upon doing so, he was told that she had been discharged. It made him feel better. At least she was going to be ok. But he had some explaining to do.



Meanwhile, Sue Ellen had followed the written instructions that had been pushed under her door sometime that morning. The note had said that there was an urgent problem with one of the major designers and that she had been held up somewhere between London and Rome. The show might have to be stalled until she could get there with her designs.

Approaching what she believed to be the right address - a house that she had been told belonged to one of the show's senior executives - Sue Ellen rang the doorbell. On the other side of the door stood a red haired woman, who spoke in a very soft, polite English accent.

"Hello Sue Ellen" said the voice.

Confused, Sue Ellen simply smiled and said "Hello" back.

"Come in" said the woman.

Sue Ellen did so and heard the large door close behind her.

When the woman didn't move from her position at the door, Sue Ellen said, "I am not sure who I have to see, but I believe there is some sort of a problem with Dawn Mancini..."

The woman smiled. Almost menacingly.

Sue Ellen was slightly unnerved by the apparent lack of other people in this house.

"Don't you know who I am Sue Ellen?" the woman said.

Sue Ellen stared at her, looking for something that would trigger a memory. Did she know this woman?

"I'm sorry...I don't" Sue Ellen softly replied. She expected at any moment all would be revealed, she would go to her meeting and all would be fine.

"My name is Vanessa. Vanessa Beaumont"

Sue Ellen felt her stomach turn over. She realized this had been a trick.

"Vanessa?"

Vanessa nodded.

Sue Ellen felt the anger build within her. "Why am I here?" she demanded.

"I think you and I need to have a little chat", Vanessa said, and motioned Sue Ellen into the sitting room.

"Look" Sue Ellen said, putting her bag on the sofa, "I don't know what sort of a little game you are trying to play with me, but it's not going to work."

"I'm not playing a game Sue Ellen" Vanessa said "But I am none too impressed with the fact that I ended up in hospital and my fiancé failed to visit me because of you"

That one word stuck in Sue Ellen's mind. "Fiancé?"

"Yes. Didn't he tell you?"

Sue Ellen looked to the ground and then back to Vanessa.

"Surely you must be used to the way he operates by now?"

Sue Ellen stayed tight lipped.

"How does it feel to be the other woman for a change?" Vanessa teased.

There was a time when a comment like that would have floored Sue Ellen. Not any more.

"I wouldn't know" she said. "You see Vanessa, I know I'm the only woman JR has ever truly wanted"

"Is that so?" Vanessa said, trying to feign surprise.

"Hmm" Sue Ellen nodded, smiling. "I know him better than anyone else, I know how to push his buttons"

"He has buttons you have not even discovered yet" Vanessa smirked.

"Oh I doubt that. When you've been married to someone for 17 years you usually know where everything is"

That comment cut Vanessa. She didn't need to be reminded of the fact that JR had never married her.

"And besides..." Sue Ellen continued. "I doubt he would be running to me for amazing sex if he was happy with you honey"

Vanessa was furious.

Sue Ellen lifted her bag, then went as close to Vanessa as she could get, almost whispering in her ear,

"I don't have to fight for what is, and always has been ...mine. But if you want to get down and dirty to prove something to yourself, then bring it on. After all the experience I have had as Mrs. JR Ewing, you are but a mere inconvenience".

And with that, Sue Ellen brushed past her, leaving Vanessa speechless.

Proud of herself for standing her ground, yet furious at the same time, Sue Ellen breezed along the street, a flock of pigeons rising up to flight as she came their way.

"Fiancé? FIANCE?!" she said to herself. "I'm going to kill him".

Meanwhile, JR had decided to put in an appearance at his own hotel, taking a chance that Vanessa might be there so he could chat to her.

As luck would have it, upon entering the room, Vanessa had made it back and was packing her things.

JR closed the door and stood silently for a moment before saying,

"Hello"

She turned to him. "Hello". Then back to the suitcase.

"Are you alright?" he said.

"Yes. I'm as well as can be expected".

"I'm sorry Vanessa. I don't know what else to say."

Vanessa turned to him. "If you had known that she was going to be here, why did you invite me?"

"I didn't know. I swear to God I didn't know".

"And it's her you have been with all this time?"

JR nodded "Yes"

A tear fell down Vanessa's cheek. "I should have known better than to trust and believe in you", she said.

"Vanessa, I am truly sorry, but I love her. She was my wife for nearly 20 years...I love her...I don't know what else to say"

"Well" said Vanessa "I think I have simplified it for you"

"What do you mean?" JR asked, thinking she must mean because she was leaving.

"I met with Sue Ellen earlier"

JR temporarily stopped breathing.

"Why?" he asked.

"Because I love you JR" she told him, quite simply. "I can't just let Sue Ellen walk in and spoil what we have. Besides..." she said, approaching him, "...it's probably just a phase, and you do have a history of this."

"Sue Ellen is not just a phase, Vanessa" JR told her firmly.

"Once she heard of our plans to marry, I think she came to her senses" Vanessa said.

"WHAT?" JR boomed.

"Yes, I told her that I didn't mind my fiancé having one last fling, if it got it out of his system..."

On hearing this, JR turned, opened the door and moved faster than he had ever moved in his life.

JR searched for what seemed like an eternity. Eventually he arrived in the square and saw a woman sitting on a bench with her back to him. He had found her.

Approaching her from behind, and placing a hand on her shoulder he said,

"She's lying"

Sue Ellen turned to look up at him, and with tears in her eyes said,

"It doesn't matter"

JR came to sit beside her and said, "What doesn't matter?"

"Us...it just doesn't matter"

JR was confused, so Sue Ellen continued.

"Don't you see? It doesn't matter what we feel, there is always, ALWAYS going to be interference...from something...or someone..."

"Darlin', don't be sayin' this because of Vanessa...I know she spoke to you..."

"It's not just Vanessa...it just made me realise that no matter how happy we think we are, somewhere in the background there will always be something lurking waiting to destroy it all"

A tear fell down Sue Ellen's cheek. JR took her hand and said,

"Only if we let it"

They looked at each other for a moment. JR broke the silence.

"Do you love me?"

Sue Ellen rolled her eyes and laughed.

"NO!" she shouted "I can't stand you! That's why I'm sitting on a park bench in the middle of Italy when I'm supposed to be at work!!"

As she sniffled, JR laughed.

"Of course I love you" she said.

"And I love you. Do you understand me? I LOVE YOU. You're the only woman I have ever loved", JR said, with real sincerity in both his voice and his eyes.

"But I'm not the only woman that has ever loved you" Sue Ellen said.

JR looked at her questioningly.

"And I can't compete with that JR..not anymore. I've come too far now to let anyone destroy what I've done for myself...I am so different now to what even you know"

"Sue Ellen you don't have to compete with anybody!" JR said.

"Now...not now I don't. It would be different at home. Ewing Oil, other women...it wouldn't be long before you..."

JR looked as though he was going to cry now.

"I'm not saying it to upset you JR...but realistically, we are caught up in the romance of this moment. That's all this is"

"I don't believe that...and I don't think you do either" JR said.

"We haven't seen each other in so long...it's a different place, it helps us forget what happened between us..." Sue Ellen said sadly.

"I love you. I've never stopped" JR said.

"And I love you. But the only way we could ever be truly happy is if it was just us.. with nothing and no one around us to spoil things. No Ewing Oil, no other women...nothing..."

"Sounds like paradise to me darlin'" JR said smiling.

"But it's not realistic...we can't just hide ourselves away forever. We are known and watched everywhere we go...it's just impossible"

"So what are you saying?" JR asked.

"I'm saying...it can't go any further. Maybe we will see each other again someday and have a wonderful magical time like we have had now..."

"Sue Ellen..." JR interrupted her, distraught.

"I have to go" she said, leaning forward and gently touching his face before kissing him lightly on the lips. "I'll always love you, JR" she said, and with that she was gone.