As Bobby bonds with the ranch hand's son, Pam informs him that their unborn child may have a fatal genetic defect. Meanwhile, J.R. hires a man to tail Sue Ellen.

Miss Ellie worries that her marriage will fall apart when she believes she has breast cancer. Meanwhile, Sue Ellen has a fling with Dusty, the cowboy; and Alan furthers J.R.'s plan.

Lucy pursues Alan Beam. Pam confronts Bobby about trying to ruin Cliff and as she does so she inadvertently learns about J.R.'s oil deal in Asia.

Sue Ellen's continuing post-partum depression and avoidance of John Ross begins to create conflict among the family. Meanwhile, Jock must sell the Asian oil leases in order to keep Southfork.

J.R. works to get Bobby back in the office so that Jock will be forced to say home. Pam surrounds herself with her work after losing her baby.

When J.R. learns that Sue Ellen is having him followed, he strikes back by stopping her from taking John Ross away from him by proving she is drinking again.

Cliff investigation of the body found on Southfork leads him to suspect that Jock is to blame.

J.R. continues to try to strike a deal for his Asian oil and Pam sets out to find information on her mother who is believed to be dead.

Bobby and Pam leave Southfork. Meanwhile, J.R. is shot following the nationalization of the Asian oil wells which ends up ruining competing oil wells.

Bobby has a hard time running Ewing Oil with J.R. undermining his every decision. Meanwhile, Miss Ellie finds the gun that was used in the shooting and Sue Ellen, full of guilt, has nightmares about J.R.'s shooting.

As Donna and Ray tie the knot, Lucy competes for Miss Young Dallas. Meanwhile, Jock and Miss Ellie continue to feud.