Sue Ellen is fearful Pam will produce the next Ewing heir before her. Sue Ellen is desperate, and decides to adopt. When she encounters obstacles, she decides a quicker method is required, and goes to extremes with a 'black market' baby. This deal is going to cost Sue Ellen cash, and decides she should meet the mother. Sue Ellen forms a maternal relationship with Rita Briggs, the mother of the unborn child.

It's Lucy Ewing's birthday. Sue Ellen is planning the music, Pam brings her home dresses, and J.R is planning the guest list. Lucy is not pleased. She tries to convince Grandaddy Jock to let her invite her mother. Jock says he does not want Valene on the Ranch given how she left the last time. Lucy tries to explain that J.R lied, and her mother never took the bribe J.R offered, but he stands firm. Lucy leaves Southfork in the middle of the night, taking a guitar, and J.R's car with her. Eventually she is picked up by a con man, Willie Guest, who includes Lucy in some of his thefts and scams.