J.R is thrilled when Lucy becomes engaged to Kit Mainwaring. It will mean a potential business merger with Mainwaring Oil, which would be beneficial to Ewing Oil, and J.R. Unfortunately, Kit Mainwaring is gay. He eventually confesses this to Bobby, and then to Lucy. Lucy is heartbroken, but stands by Kit, and holds the secret. Only she and Bobby know the truth. But, of course, J.R. knew all along.

Lucy's a wreck after her breakup with Kit, and turns to drugs. Sue Ellen's battle with the bottle continues, even whilst pregnant. Despite efforts from Ray and Bobby, Lucy keeps on using, and one day when the addict and the drunk are alone at Southfork, they have a meeting in which Sue Ellen ends up falling down the stairs.