A toast which had brought a tear to the eyes of nearly every member at the table - Bobby even swearing he saw tears in JRs eyes. Sue Ellen had rewarded his beautiful speech with a kiss, whispering in his ear that she loved him. It was a wonderful evening and the family could not quite believe that after everything they had been through, that JR and Sue Ellen were here today. But it was a happy disbelief all round.

Sue Ellen had noticed a mutual attraction between Bobby and Sarah and, sipping fruit filled, alcohol free punch after dinner, she quizzed her friend.

"You do realise ah hem" Sue Ellen began, "that in order to pursue and indeed marry a Ewing, there is a very competitive training school that you must attend first"

Sarah laughed. "Well, youve done it....3 times!! So it must be worth it".

Sue Ellen looked at JR and smiled "Oh yes"

"So" Sarah went on "What do you do if you just want to sleep with one?"

Sue Ellen choked on her drink and laughed "Thats a WHOLE lesson in itself!!"

The sun did not set over the islands until well into the evening. This gave John Ross and Christopher plenty of time to romp on the beach. The water was calm and Sue Ellen watched them from a safe distance. She was feeling "happily tired", due to the baby and the journey. She loved the sound of the waves lapping against the shore and decided to sit and watch the children and relax.

This time tomorrow she would be Mrs JR Ewing again. Sue Ellen watched John Ross and thought back over her life. What a rollercoaster it had been. Meeting and falling in love with JR, having a child, divorce, remarriage, happy times, sad times and really down right bad times. Divorce again, marriage to another man, but never really losing the love she felt for JR. The elation and fear she had felt realising he was in London looking for her. JR was like a magnet. This time, due to a combination of knowing how much she herself had changed and knowing that JR really did mean everything he said this time, she just knew that this time was forever. For once in her life, she could breathe easy.

JR finished having a beer with Bobby then wanted to go and spend some time with his bride to be. At first he couldnt find her, then, as he heard the sound of childrens laughter coming from the beach, he looked out the window and there she was.

Sitting with her legs crossed, her bare feet in the sand and her gaze reaching across the horizon, there she was. The woman he had loved all his life. He never wanted to be parted from her again.

JR walked over to where she was sitting and sat down behind her, wrapping his own legs around her and pulling her to him.

She smiled and put her head back on to his shoulder. He kissed her on the cheek, whispering in her ear "Having second thoughts?". She looked at him, and realized he was only joking, given the huge smile on his face.

She leaned in and kissed him. "You aint getting away now Ewing" she smiled.

"Can you believe this?" JR asked.

"No" she laughed.

"I love you" he said. She went to speak but he put his finger to her lips. "Thank you for giving me another chance."

Sue Ellen touched his face. "I cant help it...youre just too damn irresistible".

JR smiled and kissed the top of her head.

"I love you. Youre all I want" Sue Ellen said.

They kissed. Watching from the villa, Miss Ellie raised a glass of champagne to the sky and said "Look after them Jock", and smiled.

In true traditional style, JR and Sue Ellen had chosen to spend their last night as an unmarried couple apart. They had made a joke out of it saying that after nearly 3 marriages to each other, a child and now a pregnancy that maybe it was a bit unnecessary but they had wanted to do it anyway.

JR woke early and opened the balcony doors. It was going to be a beautiful day. Even if there was a thunderstorm he wouldnt care. His life was perfect now. He couldnt wait for Sue Ellen to wake up so that he could marry her and start their new life together.

Elsewhere on the island a small plane had landed carrying some more visitors. Amongst them was someone else who wanted to be part of the wedding....

A hour or so later, there was a knock on Sue Ellens door. She was already awake and had just finished showering. It was Sarah.

"Good morning!!" Sarah said in her breezy British way.

Sue Ellen smiled. "I am so excited!!" she said "I feel like Ive never done this before and Ive done it 4 times - well this will be the 3rd with JR!!" She couldnt stop giggling, like the realisation of their crazy and wonderful life had just dawned on her.

Sarah hugged her. "This will be the only time that counts" she instructed.

Sue Ellen took her dress out of the wardrobe. It was a beautiful, straight gown with a parting up one of the legs, ivory in colour with a band in the centre. Her shoulders would be bare. Her shoes were almost Cinderella- like, with crystal stones running around the side of the toe and a pointed shell

"Its so beautiful" Sarah said. Sue Ellen took Sarahs dress out of the wardrobe - it was similar to Sue Ellens in shape and design, but with royal blue tones going through it - JRs favourite colour.

Sue Ellen went to change into her underwear and there was another knock at the door. Sarah opened it. It was Miss Ellie.

"Good morning Mrs Farlow" Sarah said.

"Hello Sarah" Miss Ellie smiled "And its Ellie"

Sue Ellen appeared in the doorway with her hair down and brushed and ready to be styled. Sarah was ready for action.

"Sue Ellen" Miss Ellie said hugging her. "I just wanted to give you something". She handed Sue Ellen a box. "I know you have something new...and that John Ross gave you something borrowed..."

"He leant me his embroidered hankerchief" Sue Ellen laughed.

The women smiled.

"But Id like to give you something old" Miss Ellie said.

Sue Ellen opened it. Inside the box was a folded letter, which Sue Ellen took out curiously. She sat on the side of the bed as she opened it.

It was a letter dated March 19, 1967. As Sue Ellen read the words, her eyes filled with tears. Sarah looked at Miss Ellie in wonder, and Miss Ellie winked.

"What does it say?" Sarah asked.

Sue Ellen cleared her throat. "Ive met her Momma. The most beautiful girl Ive ever seen and I know that she will be with me forever, whether she agrees to marry me or not".

Sarah didnt quite understand so Miss Ellie explained. "The letter is from JR. He served as a judge in the Miss Texas Beauty contest where Sue Ellen won. He wrote me this letter from Dallas when I was with Jock in South America. Hes talking about Sue Ellen".

Sarah raised her hand to her heart and gasped. "Thats amazing."

"This letter is nearly 20 years old," Sue Ellen said. "Ill treasure it Miss Ellie, thank you", she said and the two women embraced.

"Well I will let you get ready and I will see you later" Miss Ellie smiled.

Just as Sue Ellen was about to sit down, there was another knock at the door.

"Goodness me" Sue Ellen said.

Sarah opened it. There was no one there. She looked from end to end, then by chance, looked at her feet.

When she came back into the room she was holding a single yellow rose.

"I assume this is for you" she smiled and handed it to her friend.

Sue Ellen smiled and opened the card which was attached to it. She laughed as she read it.

"What does it say?" Sarah asked.

"Hurry up!" she laughed.

"How on earth did he get a yellow rose in the Seychelles?" Sarah quizzed.

"Ah ha" Sue Ellen said "That you learn at Ewing Training School!"

At 11 am, most of the wedding party had gathered on the small stretch of beach that Sue Ellen and JR had liked the best. Bobby straightened Christophers tie, John Ross and JR made sure that they both looked their best and Miss Ellie chatted to the local priest.

Just as the Reverend Silas was telling Miss Ellie how wonderful he thought the whole idea of JR and Sue Ellen writing their own vows was, Miss Ellie saw a woman walking towards them, coming from the direction of the villa.

She couldnt quite see who it was as the woman had a large hat and her head down, but as she drew closer, Miss Ellie noted that there was something quite familiar about her.

She lifted her head and Miss Ellie gasped.

"Hello Ellie!" said the woman and threw her arms around Miss Ellie. JR too heard the voice and felt his whole body spasm.

It was Patricia Shepard.

"Before either of you say anything" Patricia began, "I received a letter from Sue Ellen some time ago telling me that you and her had worked everything out JR and I managed to find out from Southfork where you would be"

"Thats Teresa fired" Bobby joked quietly.

Miss Ellie and JR looked at each other.

There was something about Patricia that was more humble, frailer than she had been in the past.

"JR, Miss Ellie...Sue Ellen is my little girl...I just want to see her wedding day...I just want to see her happy again. If thats ok with you...please. I would be very grateful".

That was really all JR and Miss Ellie needed to hear. JR reached his arms out to Patricia and hugged her.

"Youre very welcome. I know Sue Ellen will be thrilled that you are here" JR said. And he meant it.

Miss Ellie invited Patricia to stand with her as they waited for the bride.

The island was silent except for the waves and the sounds of the tropical birds. The palm trees made a pathway bathed in light by the glorious morning sun. JR looked at the sky, then to John Ross who smiled with excitement, and then something that was more beautiful than anything he had even seen caught his eye.

Standing at the top of the beach beneath the palm trees, with a huge smile on her face was Sue Ellen. JR turned and looked at her. There was no music, no big crowd, the only thing she needed to start that walk to "the altar" was him. As soon as his eyes met hers, she began to walk towards him. Her auburn hair blew slightly in the wind and the diamond tiara which held it all in place sparkled in the sunshine. If it had been an appropriate time to talk her entire family would have said that she looked happier than anyone had ever seen her.

Clayton held her hand as she walked towards JR, Sarah stayed close behind her. Bobby smiled at JR as if to say "Wow".

When she reached him, JR shook Claytons hand. He knew how much Sue Ellen meant to him and Clayton, this time, too was truly happy for them. Sue Ellen didnt even see Patricia until she turned to hand her rose and lily bouquet to Sarah. Once again, tears filled her eyes as Patricia smiled at her daughter.

She took JRs hand. The Reverend Silas began,

"Good morning everyone. We are here on this beautiful day to celebrate with JR and Sue Ellen their love for each other."

The family were gathered in a semi circle around them and they held tightly to each others hands.

"In life" the priest continued "some of us are lucky enough to be blessed with one great love. By this, I mean a love which never disappears in spite of many obstacles that may be thrown in its path. JR and Sue Ellen are a winning example of that one great love and it is their choice to share with you, their closest family, their own vows, written by themselves and for each other, on this, their wedding day. JR, you have chosen to speak first".

JR held Sue Ellens hands and she turned to face him.

"When I look back on my life throughout the last 20 years and think of all the things that I thought were important, all the things I fought for and all the things I thought I needed, I realise now that none of them...none of them.... meant anything. Sometimes the only thing a person really needs is sitting right there in front of them and they dont see it. I see it now Sue Ellen. My life really began that day in 1967 when I met you. Throughout everything you have been the one steady, dependable and loving thing I had. Throughout my life whether present or not, you are the piece of the puzzle that completes my picture. I know now that without you in my life my picture would never be quite complete and thats why Im saying to you today that you, Sue Ellen, are my everything...my best friend, my lover, my partner through everything. I intend to spend the rest of my life putting all those missing pieces back together again. I love you".

There wasnt a dry eye in the place. Sue Ellen took the borrowed hankerchief out of her little silk purse and dabbed her eyes.

"And now Sue Ellen" Reverend Silas smiled.

Sue Ellen smiled at JR and said, "I look at you today and its as though not a single day has passed since we met. You are still the handsome man with the sparkling blue eyes that I saw smiling at me from the audience all those years ago. When I look back over the past few years and how much our lives have changed, I realise that no matter where I went, and no matter what I did, that there was something that just wasnt quite right. I tried many times to deny what I thought it was, and in the end I had to face up to it. It was you. I believe that as people we can meet someone who is our someone. You are my someone. I never in a million years thought that I would be standing here with you today, but in my head I had dreamt it so many times. Now my dream has come true. You complete me JR. I will do everything I can to make you happy. I have loved you since the day I met you and I will love you for the rest of my life."

The couple wiped away tears from each others faces as the Reverend Silas smiled and said,

"May we have the rings please?"

John Ross and Christopher had a ring each. John Ross reached his cushion up to JR with Sue Ellens ring.

"Now" said the priest, "I feel a bit silly asking this as we all know the answer but...."

Everyone laughed.

"Do you John Ross Ewing Junior take Sue Ellen Shepard to be your lawfully wedded wife?"

JR smiled and winked at Sue Ellen "Ive been waiting a long time to say this....Yes, I do", he said and pushed the ring on to her finger.

"Do you Sue Ellen Shepard take John Ross Ewing J...."

"YES" Sue Ellen said before he had even finished.

More laughter. It was a happy day.

The Reverend was a jolly fellow who fully appreciated this couples love and excitement for each other and for their wedding.

"Then I now pronounce you husband and wife. You may..."

But JR already had his new bride in his arms and they were enjoying a loving kiss.

"Ladies and Gentlemen...I give you Mr and Mrs JR Ewing".

Everyone clapped. Sue Ellen threw her arms around her new husband and hugged him.

"Alright!" John Ross smiled. JR picked him up and he kissed both his parents.

After a few minutes Sue Ellen went to her mother and greeted her.

"Thank you for coming Momma. I hope this means you are back to stay" she said.

They embraced "Darling I wouldnt have missed this for the world" Patricia said.

"Come on Mrs Ewing!" JR said to Sue Ellen happily.

The newly weds led their small group to the villa for a party where they enjoyed food and drink well into the early evening. JR and Sue Ellen led everyone in a dance, Bobby and Sarah enjoyed each others company and Miss Ellie enjoyed catching up with Patricia, who was delighted to hear she was going to be a grandmother again.

At around 7 pm, Sue Ellen noticed JR walking on to the beach. She wondered what he was doing and after a few minutes he came back.

"What are you doing?" she smiled pulling him to her. "I want to dance"

"We will" JR said and kissed her.

Sarah excused herself and when Sue Ellen looked at her friend, she was holding a small overnight bag. She handed it to Sue Ellen.

"Whats this for?" Sue Ellen asked.

Everyone in the room smiled at Sue Ellen. They were all in on this - whatever it was.

JR took her hand and said "We are going on our honeymoon"

"WHAT?" Sue Ellen smiled "I thought this was our honeymoon"

JR led her out on to the balcony of the villa and down onto the beach. In the water nearby, a Romanesque style Gondola had pulled up. Sue Ellen gasped.

"Thats our cab" JR smiled.

Sue Ellen couldnt believe it. She kissed JR and turned to her family who were all waving, shouting "Have a good time!" and "Have fun!"

They climbed aboard the Gondola and the man congratulated them on their wedding.

"JR where are we going?" Sue Ellen asked.

"Oh we are going to our own private island" he smiled.

Sue Ellens mouth fell open "Theres more of them?!" she said with surprise.

"Oh yes...and on this one...there will just be us".

Sue Ellen closed her eyes. She pulled him to her and kissed him. "I cant believe this."

The couple enjoyed the 10 minute trip across the water to their own exclusive part of the island. On arrival, the young man put out his hand to help Sue Ellen out and JR gave him a huge tip. The island was beautiful. Their own beach, their own pool...it was perfect.

Sue Ellen took JRs hand "JR I ...." He kissed her.

They looked deep into each others eyes. "I know" he said.

Sue Ellen didnt want to change out of her dress so she kept it on for most of the day. They got themselves settled and as the sun began to set, JR led her out onto the balcony overlooking the beach and music started to play from the stereo. They moved closer together and danced.

Neither of them spoke, they just enjoyed each others touch, each others smell. The pieces of the puzzle, the never ending puzzle, were finally all together.

JR woke early and wrapped his arms tightly around Sue Ellen, she was still asleep, he could hear her gentle breathing. He began to kiss her softly, hoping that she would wake up. Sue Ellen lay snug inside his embrace, she had never felt more contented, yesterday had been perfect and now they were alone on a deserted island she felt like she was living in a dream. She felt JRs kisses and knew what was on his mind, last night they had made a pact never to let anything ever separate them again, they were soulmates, they belonged together, apart they were only half complete. Sue Ellen opened her eyes and smiled at JR.

"I thought you were going to stay asleep all day" he joked

"I wasnt asleep, I just had my eyes closed," she laughed "I was just enjoying being this close to you"

She kissed him "I love you so much" she said "I wish we could stay this way forever"

"We can!" JR said, "I have everything I need, you, John Ross and the baby, and Im not going to do anything to spoil it"

Sue Ellen went to speak but JR put his finger to her lips to stop her "Later" He said and started to kiss her lips "Right now, all I want to do is make love to you, and make up for all the time weve wasted"

As they made love, Sue Ellen felt the past disappear, the memory of all the pain she had felt during her previous marriages to JR seemed to melt away, now she had what she wanted most, and this time she knew she could believe JR when he said that she had been the only woman that he ever truly loved. Afterwards they stayed locked in a tight embrace, both happy to stay where they were, Sue Ellen broke the silence.

"How long have we got on this island?" she asked

"48 hours and then we have to get back to the family and return to a freezing cold London, as its exactly ten days until Christmas" JR said.

"Aww," Sue Ellen said, "It wont be that cold, beside I can warm you up," she laughed

She lay quietly and JR could hear her thinking

"Whats wrong?" he asked

"Nothing I was just thinking, we still havent got the house ready for Christmas" she said

"Dont worry, it will be fine" He said

"Did you think twelve months ago that we would be here?" she said

JR laughed, "I have to admit I didnt, its funny how life can change in a year, after losing Ewing Oil the only thing I could think of, was going to London to find you and John Ross"

Sue Ellen laughed "Yes and when I found out that you were in London, the only thing I could think of was trying to escape from you in order to keep my son"

"Eh, Whose son?" JR asked

"Okay, our son, but I thought that if you found us, you would try and take him back to Dallas with you" she said

JR tenderly kissed her "When I left Dallas my only plan was to be near you and John Ross, nothing else mattered, all of my life I wanted to be my fathers favourite son, I did anything I could to build up Ewing Oil and make him proud of me, but it didnt do any good, I always came out second best"

Sue Ellen kissed him, she knew how much his father meant to him and how hurt he had been by the fact that Jock preferred Bobby "Not to me JR you were and still are my number one, noone can ever take that away from you" she said "Its just a shame that its taken you so long to realise that the one person who gave you unconditional love was standing right by your side" She snuggled closer to him.

"I love you" JR said. He placed his hand on her tummy and gently rubbed it, Sue Ellen lay watching him.

"What are you thinking?" she asked

"Just about the future, you, me, John Ross and this new life inside you, Im going to make everything perfect" he said

"It already is JR" she replied

"We have to be careful with John Ross, I dont want him to feel left out when the baby arrives, I never want him to feel as though hes second best" JR said

"Dont worry, it wont happen, he knows we love him and nothing is going to change that" Sue Ellen said

"I wonder what hes up to now," JR said

"Probably wrapping both his grandmothers around his little finger I should imagine" Sue Ellen laughed

"Do you realise this is the only time weve been apart from him since we got back together" JR said

"I know, it seems strange waking up and not hearing him somewhere in the house" Sue Ellen said

"Oh God, I know now whats important, and it isnt Ewing Oil, its my family, you and our children, as long as I have that nothing else matters, without you Im nothing" JR said

Sue Ellen had tears in her eyes, finally her life was complete, she had the man of her dreams and this time it would last forever. She kissed him and said, "Always remember that no matter what, I have and always will love you, Ive never cared about Ewing Oil or the money I only ever wanted you, and now that I have you Im going to do everything in my power to make sure you know how much I love you"

"I think I already know that" He said

They lay wrapped in a tight embrace, JR looked at the clock on the bedside it was eleven oclock. "Hey, what say we get up and explore the island" he said

"Okay, but I think we should both take a shower first" She said winking at him.

JR laughed

An hour later they stepped out into the bright sunshine. They wandered hand in hand down onto the beach. JR looked at Sue Ellen, she looked radiant, he couldnt recall ever seeing her look more beautiful or happy. He let go off her hand and putting his arm around her pulled her closer to him.

The sea was a deep blue so they decided to go and paddle their feet.

"This is paradise" JR said, "I wish we could stay like this forever"

"We can" Sue Ellen said "As long as we remember how much we love each other"

"Always the romantic, Sue Ellen" JR laughed

"You bet, JR" she replied

They kept strolling along the beach, the waves washing their feet. JR started laughing

"Whats so funny?" Sue Ellen asked

"Oh, I was just thinking about our second wedding" he said

"Yes, I remember that one, and the pool fight after it" she laughed

"Well Cliff Barnes had no right to dance with you, you were mine!" JR said

"Im really glad we didnt decide to go back to Southfork and have a big wedding this time, it was so much more perfect here with just the family looking on" Sue Ellen said

"Youre right, this time felt more special, maybe because what I feel now is deeper than what I felt back then, I did love you then but I didnt realise how much" JR said

Sue Ellen kissed him.

"By the way, are you match-making?" JR asked

"What do you mean?" Sue Ellen replied

"You know what I mean, Sarah and Bobby!" JR laughed

"That has nothing to do with me, Sarahs quite capable of taking care of herself," Sue Ellen laughed, "However I think shes enjoying Bobbys company"

JR sighed "Bobby hasnt had much luck lately in that department, what with Pam leaving him and then April being killed"

"I know" Sue Ellen said "I still cant understand Pams reasons for leaving him or Christopher for that matter"

"Poor old Christopher, first his real mother uses him to blackmail money out of people and then his adopted mother walks out on him" JR said

Sue Ellen felt a shiver going down her spine; she knew Kristin had blackmailed JR into believing that the child she was carrying was his that was why she was never prosecuted for shooting him. JR felt Sue Ellens mood change slightly and held her tighter.

"Im sorry, I didnt mean to bring that up again," he said

"Its okay, thats in the past, I accepted you and Kristin a long time ago"

JR turned her to face him and kissed her "But she was never you, any other women I slept with never measured up to you, noone has ever made me feel as loved as you have and that is why from this moment on the only woman I plan on sleeping with is you" he said

"Good!" Sue Ellen replied "Actually I was watching Christopher on the beach a few days ago and suddenly realised how much he looks like Kristin, maybe its because I know that hes her son, but I can definitely see her in him"

"Do you think your mother will see that" JR asked

"I dont know, there are only four people who know the truth about him and thats you, me, Bobby and Pam, even the rest of the family dont know the truth and Im just a bit worried about what will happen if the truth ever comes out" Sue Ellen said

"And its liable to if Christopher ever decides to search for his real mother" JR said

"Yes, and I dont want my mother hating me because I never told her about Kristins child" Sue Ellen replied

"Lets not worry too much about that now, enjoy the fact that your mother is back in your life and well face the problem of Kristin and Christopher when it happens, together" JR said

Sue Ellen turned and kissed him.

"What was that for?" he asked

"Nothing, I just love you"

JR kissed her back, holding her tightly knowing that this time the vows he made to her were forever, he was never going to lose her again.

They went further along the beach and sat down in the shade of a palm tree. Sue Ellen rested her head against his shoulder; he looked at her with concern.

"Are you okay?" he asked

"Im fine, just a little tired with all the excitement and the thought of Christmas just around the corner" she replied

"When is the baby due again?" JR asked

"Not for another seven months" Sue Ellen said

"So how long before I can feel it moving?" JR asked

"I dont know really, another couple of months I guess, why?" Sue Ellen replied

"I just dont want to miss anything, I mean last time...with John Ross...we both missed out on so much" he said

Sue Ellen cuddled into him "I know, this time well get it right okay!" she smiled

JR kissed her "You bet!" he said

Time passed and their time on the island was over, it was now time to go back to reality and face their future. The time they had spent alone had been magical. They both felt refreshed and both knew that this time their marriage was going to be wonderful.

After the short boat trip back to the island, they walked hand in hand back to the villa. John Ross saw them from the window and ran to meet them with Christopher following him. JR and Sue Ellen hugged both boys tightly and then walked hand in hand with them up to the villa. Miss Ellie and Sarah greeted them at the door.

"So how was it?" said Sarah

"Oh, you know, pretty boring actually, nothing much to do!" Sue Ellen laughed

JR laughed, "I didnt notice you complaining too much though" he said Well as our flight leaves for London in about three hours I guess we better start getting ready"

"Is my mother still here or did she leave?" Sue Ellen asked

"Shes still here, shes been getting to know her grandson again, in fact I think shes enjoyed playing with both boys" Miss Ellie said

"Well, what do we do, JR can we invite her to spend Christmas with us?" Sue Ellen asked

"Sure if thats what you want, one more person wont hurt" JR said

Sue Ellen kissed him "Im going to go and find her"

Sarah turned towards John Ross and Christopher and said "Come on boys, Ill help you pack and then we can head for home"

The two boys race towards the stairs with Sarah following not far behind, leaving Miss Ellie and JR alone in the hallway.

"JR, you both look so happy, please dont spoil it this time" Ellie said

"Momma, I promise you, Im planning on taking care of her and our children, shes the one person who has always love me despite everything I put her through" JR said

"I wish you would come back to Southfork" Ellie said

"I know, but I think we need to be on our own for a while, I dont want either Sue Ellen or John Ross thinking that now were married that I want to go back to Dallas. Bobby was talking the other day about reclaiming Ewing Oil, but at this point in time, Im just not interested in that. We will come back but not yet, beside you can always visit us in London" JR said

"Ive never seen Sue Ellen look so relaxed and happy," Ellie said

"We finally have everything we want, I have never felt this close to anyone. I love her and Im never going to do anything to risk losing her again," he said

Miss Ellie kissed him "How cold is it in London at this moment" she asked

JR laughed "Well I guess when we left it was about six degrees centigrade, by now it could be colder"

They both laughed and walked upstairs to get ready for their trip back home.

Sue Ellen knocked on the door of her mothers room.

"Come in" Her mother called

Sue Ellen entered the room and saw her mother packing.

"Hi momma" Patricia Sheppard looked at her daughter and went to hug her.

"You look wonderful," She said "Although I cant believe youve just married JR for the third time"

Sue Ellen laughed "Yes, but its third time lucky"

"Momma, its been a long time, why did you never reply to my letters?" Sue Ellen asked

"Im really sorry, its just with Kristins death, and you and JRs divorce, it seemed like everything I had planned for you had failed" Patricia answered

"I thought you blamed me for her death" Sue Ellen said

"In some ways, I did, you were supposed to be her older sister and look after her" Patricia said

"It wasnt my fault, there are things that happened after you left Dallas.....she hurt me so much" Sue Ellen said with tears in her eyes

Patricia went and hugged her daughter "I know, and I was wrong but Im here now and I want to be part of your life again"

"Youve missed out on so much with John Ross" Sue Ellen said

"Hes all grown up," Patricia laughed

"Momma, what are you doing for Christmas, I mean you can come back with us if you want to" Sue Ellen said

"Ellie said youre staying in London and not moving back to Southfork, why" Patricia asked

"Mainly because we want some time on our own without Ewing Oil but also because John Ross prefers it there. Just at the moment he thinks his parents can only be happy away from Dallas." Sue Ellen answered, "One day we will go back, part of me wants my children brought up at Southfork, but not yet"

"I just want you to be happy," Patricia said

"I am, now are you coming back with us or what" Sue Ellen asked

"Id love to!" her mother answered

Just then there was a knock at the door, then JR walked in

"Excuse me, but we really have to leave shortly so would you two ladies mind getting ready," he said

"Okay" Sue Ellen said and gave her mother a hug "Well see you later" she then took JRs hand and walked towards her room.

"Are the children ready?" She asked

"Sarahs taking care of them, now come here," JR answered

"Hmm, I thought you said we had to get ready to leave" Sue Ellen smiled

"We do, however I just wanted another moment alone with you" He said and gently pushed her onto the bed

"JR, youre incorrigible" she laughed and kissed him

"I know" JR said "And you wouldnt have me any other way" he laughed

"I love you" Sue Ellen said, as they fell into a passionate kiss.

After the flight back to London and settling into the house, JR treated his family to dinner. Over dinner they talked about their plans for Christmas. Clayton turned to JR and said

"Are you sure you want us all to stay at the house, we could move into a hotel"

"No" JR said, "We have plenty of room and beside we both wanted the family to stay."

"Beside" Sue Ellen said "We need some help getting things ready"

As the evening got later they made their way back to the house. Everyone was tired from traveling so each made their way to bed; JR and Sue Ellen decided to make themselves a drink and snuggled up together on the sofa for a while.

"Are you okay?" he asked, "Its been a tiring couple of days"

"Im fine JR, Im so proud of you," She said

"Why?" JR asked

"Because youve changed so much these past few months, your attitude towards the family, youre even making an effort with Clayton and you dont even mind that my mother has joined us for Christmas" she answered

JR kissed her "I know how much you wanted your mother here and as for Clayton, well I guess hes part of the family since hes married to my mother and I know he means a lot to you." JR said

Sue Ellen held JR tighter and he kissed her on the forehead, at last he felt like he belonged somewhere. "I was talking to Bobby the other day" he said, "He wants us to go back to Dallas, he wants my help to reclaim Ewing Oil"

"What did you tell him?" Sue Ellen asked

"I told him I wasnt interested, Ive got more important things to worry about now" JR said "Bobby reminded me that its our fathers company and belongs to the Ewings"

"I guess hes right there" Sue Ellen said

"Yes but look at all the pain its cost, the Barnes/Ewing feud, now it just seems pointless, one day maybe I will reclaim it for John Ross or perhaps when hes older we can set up a new company together, but its not what I want now, even if we did go back" He said

"And what do you want" Sue Ellen asked

JR was silent for a moment "Just to have you love me forever like you love me now" he said

Sue Ellen smiled "That shouldnt be too difficult"

"I dont want anything to come between us ever again," He said

Sue Ellen kissed him, "Im tired JR, lets go to bed" she said

"I thought youd never ask" He laughed

The week leading up to Christmas passed quickly; the house was decorated and all the presents wrapped and placed under the tree. Sue Ellen felt that this year was going to be so special she had everything she wanted.

Christmas Eve was cold and sunny, JR and Clayton took the two boys to the park while Sue Ellen, her mother and Miss Ellie stayed inside the house talking. Bobby and Sarah had decided to go and see a movie together.

"Its good to see Clayton and JR being at least civil to each other," Ellie said

"Actually, I think JR finally wants him to be part of the family" Sue Ellen replied

"Sue Ellen, I cant believe the change Ive seen in him this past week" Ellie said

"Well, just maybe losing Ewing Oil was the best thing that happened to him, he realized what was important" Sue Ellen said

"I wish you two would consider coming back to Dallas" Patricia said

"We will momma, but not yet" Sue Ellen said "I miss Southfork, but JR and I need time to ourselves, to be a real family"

"Sue Ellen, why dont we go to a church service tonight, it is Christmas Eve" Patricia said

Sue Ellen looked at Miss Ellie and smiled "Im not sure JR would like that very much, but John Ross and I went last year and I think it would be good to go as a family" she said

"Okay" Ellie said "Im sure you can persuade JR"

"Lets go for a walk to the park" Sue Ellen said

The three women walked to the area of the park where JR and Clayton were having a game of football with John Ross and Christopher. JR waved to them and walked over.

"Whos winning?" Sue Ellen said

"Who do you think?" JR replied, "John Ross and Christopher are younger and fitter than us" he laughed

"Daddy, we were going to let you win" John Ross said "But we decided not to"

"By the way JR, weve decided were going to church tonight" Sue Ellen said

"Leaving me alone, Christmas Eve are you?" JR said

"No way, youre coming too" Sue Ellen laughed

"Good grief, the church is liable to fall down if I walk into it" JR said

Everyone laughed. JR knew he couldnt refuse Sue Ellen anything.

"I like going to church Christmas Eve" John Ross said "I get to stay up real late"

The family wrapped up warm against the chill of the night, as they walked to church. Christopher and John Ross were in front laughing and joking. As they got to the church JR held Sue Ellen tighter, she looked at him and smiled.

Inside the church it was warm and beautifully lit by candlelight. The family squeezed into one pew, JR took hold of his wifes hand and squeezed it tightly.

"I cant believe Im doing this" He whispered,

Sue Ellen smiled "I know" she said

The service was lovely and left everyone feeling happy and ready for the next day. At 12.30am the service ended and they made their way back to the house.

"Can we open our presents now?" John Ross asked

"No, young man, you cannot, its time for bed" JR said "But Im not tired" John Ross complained

"Bedtime" Sue Ellen said "Beside you dont want to stay down here on your own do you?"

After some coaxing both boys decided that maybe it was in their best interest to go to bed. As it was so late everyone else decided to do the same.

JR and Sue Ellen entered their room; JR took her in his arms and kissed her.

"I cant believe you made me go to church" he laughed

"It wasnt that bad" She smiled

JR held her tightly, "I cant refuse you anything" he said

"I know" she smiled "Time for bed JR"

They lay wrapped in a tight embrace, kissing each other "This is going to be the best Christmas ever" JR said

"Of course" Sue Ellen said "Everything is perfect, I love you so much"

"I love you more" JR said "and I cant wait for this baby to be born" He gently rubbed her tummy.

Sue Ellen laughed, their kisses became more passionate, and before long they began to make love, both of them blissfully happy. JR thought about the past, remembering the pain he had cause this woman and thankful that she had been able to forgive him. She was the one constant thing in his life, the only person who had truly loved him for himself. He now knew what true happiness was, to have Sue Ellen and John Ross love him. They made his life complete.

JR woke up early the next morning; Sue Ellen lay sleeping in his arms. He looked lovingly at her. She was so beautiful, he had been so foolish but now she was his for eternity. JR heard noises from downstairs and guessed that the boys were awake. Sue Ellen opened her eyes and smiled at JR. She kissed him tenderly. "Morning" she said

"Morning yourself, guess what the kids are up" he laughed

"That figures" Sue Ellen smiled

"Hey, do you want one of your Christmas presents now?" he asked

"I thought we were going to open them together as a family" She said

"We are, but there are some things that are best kept private" He laughed as he reached under the bed for the parcel.

Sue Ellen was curious as she began opening the parcel, and laughed when she saw the underwear JR had brought.

"Exactly who is this for" She laughed

JR winked at her "Well I wont say that I wont enjoy watching you wear it!"

"I bet you wont!" Sue Ellen laughed and kissed him.

JR realized he was enjoying himself too much "I love you" He said "but I guess we better get up"

"I guess so" Sue Ellen replied "Just think this time next year well also have a baby to look after"

"Im looking forward to that" JR said "From this moment on, our life is going to be wonderful. Nothing but love, you me and our children forever"

"I feel so safe with you right now" Sue Ellen said

"Thats the way its going to stay" JR said

The entire family enjoyed this Christmas. For once they were one big happy family. There were no thoughts about Ewing Oil or the past. Everyone was happy with their Christmas presents and happy to see that at last JR and Sue Ellen had realized their love for each other. A love, which would last for eternity and could never be broken.

The following evening, JR was asleep in bed when he felt a sharp prod in his side. He turned around to see Sue Ellen watching him.

"Whats wrong?" he asked "Cant you sleep"

"No" she answered, "Im hungry!"

JR looked at the clock "Sue Ellen its three oclock in the morning!"

"So!" she replied, "Babies cant tell the time and just at this moment the baby is telling me its hungry"

JR laughed, "I suppose you want me to go downstairs and get you something to eat"

"Youre a fast learner, Ewing" Sue Ellen said

JR looked at her and kissed her "Okay, what do you want"

"Chocolate cake" she answered "with cream"

JR laughed and got out of bed. "Never had this much trouble when you were pregnant with John Ross!"

"You complaining!" Sue Ellen asked

JR looked at her and reached down and kissed her "No, I told you I want to be there for you every step of the way, even if it means getting up at three oclock in the morning!" he said "Ill be right back."

Sue Ellen lay back in bed and smiled to herself. She thought back to her pregnancy with John Ross, there were so many things that she did wrong during that time but this time her and JR were so close that she knew things would be okay. She thought about Southfork and realized that sooner or later both her and John Ross would have to face their fears regarding Dallas because she knew deep down inside of herself that she wanted to go home. She loved having the family with her in London, but knew in a couple of weeks time they would be going back home. She had also been reunited with her mother, this Christmas had been perfect and she didnt want it to end. She finally had everything that she ever wanted.

JR saw that the light was on in the living room and he heard the TV softly playing. Who was up at this time, he wandered into the room to find out. He found Christopher curled up on the sofa watching television.

"Hey buddy, what are you doing up, its really late" He asked

Christopher jumped "I couldnt sleep so I came down here" he answered

JR went and sat down beside him "John Rosss snoring getting to you is it? He asked

"No, I just have bad dreams sometimes" Christopher answered, "I was thinking about momma"

"What about her?" JR said

"Just about her leaving, she didnt really love me because if she did she wouldnt have left me," Christopher said

JR looked at him and saw tears in his eyes "Christopher, whats bothering you?" he asked

"I dont know, its just sometimes I feel I dont belong, Im adopted Im not really part of this family" he said

"Christopher of course you are!" JR said "Everyone loves you, hey look Ive got a very important job to do right now"

"What?" Christopher asked

"Ive got to get some chocolate cake to your aunt" JR replied

"But its too late for food!" Christopher laughed

"Try telling her that, why dont you come and join us" JR said, taking hold of the childs hand he led him into the kitchen.

After getting the cake they made their way back upstairs and to Sue Ellen.

"JR what kept you?" Sue Ellen asked and then she saw Christopher. "Christopher what are you doing up?" she asked

"He had a bad dream" JR said "So I told him he could come and join us for a while"

Sue Ellen stretched out her arms and Christopher climbed onto the bed, and cuddled into her. JR put the cake on the bed and took out three spoons. Sue Ellen laughed and JR said

"You dont think we were going to let you eat this all by yourself!" he said

After finishing the cake JR and Sue Ellen looked at Christopher.

"Well, Christopher are you tired yet?" Sue Ellen asked

"No" He answered

Sue Ellen held him tighter and kissed his head "Whats wrong?" she asked

"I just want my mom" Christopher answered

Sue Ellen looked at JR. There was nothing either of them could say to Christopher, Pam was gone and was never coming back.

"I know sweetie, but you have your dad, grandma and Clayton" Sue Ellen said

"What did I do wrong that momma left me" Christopher asked

Sue Ellen held him tighter. Where was this coming from?

"Christopher, you did nothing wrong, your mother was ill and she didn’t want either your dad or you to see her like that" Sue Ellen answered

"But my real mom didn’t want me, so there must be something wrong with me" he cried

Sue Ellen looked at JR but said nothing. She never realized how insecure Christopher felt. She didn’t know what to say, there was nothing she could say that would make the child feel better.

"Christopher, it’s time to get some sleep" She said

"But I’m not tired and I don’t want to go back to bed" he cried

"It’s okay, just lay down and close your eyes," she said kissing him.

Sue Ellen lay back in bed and Christopher cuddled into her. She turned to look at JR and kissed him. JR lay back down beside her and put his arm around both of them.

The following morning at breakfast Christopher was quiet and didn’t eat very much.

"So what is everyone planning on doing today?" JR asked

"Well I was planning on taking my grandson into town and buying him a hotdog" Patricia said

"Really grandma" John Ross said "Can Christopher come too?"

"I don’t see why not," Patricia answered

"Momma can we go and ride the bike in the park and build up an appetite" John Ross asked "Christopher can used my old bike"

"Yes okay, but I want both of you to finish your breakfast" Sue Ellen said

After breakfast Patricia volunteered to take the boys to the park.

"So what are the rest of us planning on doing today?" JR asked

I don’t know!" Miss Ellie said "Sue Ellen, your mother seems to be enjoying herself with the boys!"

"I know, which got me to thinking that maybe it’s time to tell her the truth about Christopher" Sue Ellen said

Bobby looked at her in surprise and said "What brought this on!"

"I don’t know, perhaps because JR found him alone and down here at three o’clock in the morning, he had a nightmare and couldn’t sleep so came down here to watch television" she answered, "He also wanted Pam and started to say that he felt he didn’t belong here because he was adopted, Bobby he knows he’s adopted so why can’t we tell him the truth about his parents"

"Sue Ellen, we’ve talked about this before and you said you were worried about your mother’s reaction when she found out that you had kept this from her all these years" JR said

"I was but seeing Christopher last night, but seeing him upset last night made me realize that he needs to know that he does belong to this family, he isn’t my adopted nephew, he’s my sister’s son and also John Ross’s cousin" Sue Ellen said

"Sue Ellen, we never treated him any different" Miss Ellie said "I’m not saying you did, but he’s got it into his head that Pam left him because she didn’t really love him as he was adopted" Sue Ellen said "it can’t do any harm by explaining the truth to him"

"Okay" Bobby said "If that’s what you want, but Christopher stays with us I don’t want her getting ideas that she can take him away"

"That’s not going to happen" Sue Ellen said

"Sue Ellen, let Clayton and I take the boys out to lunch and you can talk to your mother alone, I think she needs to know the truth before Christopher hears it" Ellie said

JR walked over to her and put his hands on her shoulders "This is going to open up old wounds, are you really sure this is what you want" he said

"Yes, but what happens when Christopher is older and tries to find his real family, how is he going to feel when he realizes that his real family were near him all the time but noone told him" Sue Ellen said "Beside if we face the truth now, we can bury the past forever and start a new year with a clean slate"

"I’m supposed to be meeting Sarah for lunch, but I’ll be back later and we’ll talk to the boys tonight" Bobby said

"Bobby you’re not angry with me are you?" Sue Ellen asked

Bobby smiled "No, what you’re saying is true, Christopher learning he was adopted and then Pam leaving him almost within a month hasn’t been easy on him, I’ll see you later"

After Bobby left, JR turned to Sue Ellen and said

"Well do you want to speak to your mother alone or do you want me to stay with you?" he asked

"You promised me that we would face this together, I need you here" She answered

"Then I’m not going anywhere," he said kissing her

"Come on, let’s all go to the park" Clayton said

They walked in silence to the park and saw the two boys playing on the bikes. JR looked at them and said

"Hang on a minute, why is Christopher riding John Ross’s new bike and he’s riding his old one.

Sue Ellen laughed, "Do you remember how they were always fighting at Southfork"

"Yes" Clayton said "I seem to remember an incident with a gun as well"

"Don’t even go there!" Ellie said

Patricia Sheppard was sat on a bench watching the boys play. The others walked up to her.

"Hi momma, don’t tell me John Ross is tired of his new bike already?" Sue Ellen said

"No, but he’s decided that his new bike is faster than his old bike so they’re taking it in turns to ride it" she answered

Sue Ellen watched the children playing, Christopher seemed happier than he had earlier, she turned back to her mother. "Momma, we thought that maybe Miss Ellie and Clayton could take the boys to lunch, and you could have lunch with JR and me," she said

"I don’t know I was looking forward to taking them out," her mother answered. "I haven’t seen John Ross in so long, I just feel like I’ve missed out on so much of his life"

"I know momma, but we haven’t seen each other for so long" Sue Ellen said

"Okay" Patricia said

They stayed sitting on the bench and watched the boys play for a while longer.

"It’s getting cold out here, I think it’s time to go back indoors" Sue Ellen said

Clayton and JR walked over to the boys.

"Come on guys, it’s time to go home" JR said

"No way!" John Ross said "Come on, Christopher let’s escape" he laughed as he rode his bike away from his father.

"You can’t catch us!" both boys called

"John Ross, I thought you wanted to go to Macdonald" JR called

"I do!" He answered

"Then I’ll give you until the count of ten and if you’re not back by then, there’ll be no hamburgers" JR called to his son.

Christopher and John Ross looked at each other, was JR joking or did he really mean it. They decided maybe it was best that they go back.

On arriving back at the house Sue Ellen and JR went into the kitchen to make a drink. JR put his arms around her and she fell into his embrace.

"Are you okay?" He asked

She turned to face him and kissed him "Yes, I’m fine, it’s just thinking about Kristin...."

"We don’t have to do this" JR said

"I know, but its time, momma knew she had another grandson," Sue Ellen said. She looked at JR and saw a look of concern in his eyes. "JR I love you more than I’ve ever loved any man, what happened between you and Kristin was years ago, it’s in the past" she said

He kissed her "I’m just scared about opening old wounds" he said

"Come on let’s go into the living room" She said, as he picked up the tray of drinks.

After finishing their drinks JR told the boys to go and get ready for lunch.

"Momma don’t let them have more than one hamburger" JR said

"JR I brought up three sons, I think I can deal with those two" Ellie said

JR laughed "Okay point taken"

The two boys came downstairs "Okay" John Ross said "Are we going?"

"Yes" Clayton said "We were just waiting for you"

"You two, be good" Sue Ellen said

After saying goodbye, JR, Patricia and Sue Ellen went back into the living room.

"Peace at last" JR said

"John Ross is growing up quickly," Patricia said

"Yes, too quick" Sue Ellen answered

Patricia looked at her daughter.

"Sue Ellen, what’s on your mind?" She asked

"Nothing" Sue Ellen answered "I think I’ll go and make us some lunch" and with that she walked out of the room.

"JR, what’s wrong with her?" Patricia asked "Is it the baby?" she asked

"I’ll just go and check on her" JR said.