B.L. Davenport

Monday morning found Luke and Dixie heading out of Hazzard in two different directions. Luke had pushed his truck a bit harder than normal to get to work just minutes before he was late. This was totally unusual, so his crew was wondering where he was. As Luke pulled in he saw a Forestry truck that wasn't usually at Base Camp unless something was going on. He looked at the truck clock and mumbled curse words under his breath as he hurried inside. His crew had the good graces not to rib him in front of the Regional Supervisor. Randy looked a bit relieved to see Luke walk in. After greetings were made, the Supervisor asked to talk to Luke and Randy in the office. Once alone the Supervisor began, "I came over this morning because there is an experimental program the Forestry Service is wanting to try here." He paused, "with your team." Luke and Randy looked at each other, then back to the Supervisor waiting for more information. "It's gonna mean some extra training for you all, more for a few of you." He explained. Normally Luke was all in for additional training but he had a lot of new things on his plate, but he was interested in making his team better. The Supervisor explained that the crews on the East Coast didn't get as many calls as the crews out West, so they were wanting to incorporate canines that could be used on arson, rescue and cadaver calls. The trainers and dogs were on their way there. The crew would be getting one dog for now with the possibility of more later. The Supervisor then retired to the coffee pot while Luke and Randy explained all this to the team to see who was most interested. It didn't surprise Luke at all when Lisa and Casey were the most eager to be official handlers. Back in Hazzard BL was training her new help, Ellen Sue Henderson, a widow about 10 years older than BL herself. BL hoped with part time help she could take time off more easily to do things with Dixie and Daisy who didn’t really have a regular off day. She wanted off Saturdays too, so she could spend the day with Bo once he finished his farm chores. “You put the mail to be delivered here and mail going out here,” BL said. “Got it,” Ellen Sue replied. Luther Davenport circled Hazzard Square a bit earlier than usual. As he passed Miz Tisdale's house, he noticed both Dixie and Luke's vehicles were gone. Looking to the garage, he saw the wrecker backed in, ready to go on a call. He had been through several drivers since Luke last drove for him, so from habit, he walked to the door of the truck and tried the door handle, it was locked. Luther unlocked the truck and saw in the seat a tow ticket for the Sheriff's Department. The description read, 'Pulled Cletus's patrol car out of ditch.’ Luther took the ticket to put in the Sheriff's file. As he walked over to open the garage, as much as he hadn't liked the idea years ago, or a couple months ago, he couldn't deny that it was good to have someone around the garage who did things his way. As soon as the truck pulled in with the dogs, Luke saw Casey and Lisa light up. "They are not pets. They are working dogs." he cautioned. Luke was expecting German Shepherds, German police, or any other form of big working dog. What came out of the back of the truck were miniature Dachshunds! At the Duke farm, Daisy was hanging out some laundry to dry while she did the rest of her housework before going to work this afternoon. Boss Hogg might have given her the weekend off but was making her work overtime all week to make up for not having his best waitress those days. Bo was up on the house nailing down some tin, Saturday night’s storm had blowed loose. As Casey and Lisa turned from trained professionals to how most people do around newborn babies, Luke's mouth let fly what he was thinking, "What are they?" The trainers had several dogs with them. One replied to Luke's question, "Is it ready?" The supervisor nodded 'yes'. The trainer gave the dog a command, its nose went to the ground and began smelling the ground from side to side, pulling at its harness, trying to get the trainer to walk faster. As the dog went around the side of the building, there were two charred areas of dirt. It took a brief sniff at the first pile and hurried to the second, sniffed a few times and began a cross between a bark, a cry, and a total conversation as it sat down looking very proud of itself. The Supervisor nodded 'yes' again. The trainer explained the Supervisor had gotten there early, before anyone and set two places of grass on fire. One had an accelerant, the other didn't. The dog had alerted to the right one. The trainer said, "OK. Now that you all know their noses work. Let's go see what else they can do." One of the first questions was why they were using such small dogs. They were informed so the dogs could be harnessed to their chest and jump with them. In Hazzard BL was still showing Ellen Sue all the stuff she needed to know to run things at the post office if BL wasn’t there. “If someone’s wanting to rent a PO box, you need two forms of identification and one must be a photo ID. Then you look in this book here that’s under the counter to see what’s available.” BL said. Just as BL finished her instructions, a middle aged couple entered the post office. “Hello, how may I help you?” Ellen Sue asked. “We’d like to get a PO box, please,” the man replied. “Alright, I’ll need two forms of ID,” Ellen Sue replied. Getting the book from under the counter Ellen Sue asked what size box was needed, then found a vacant one in the list, wrote down the information and checked both forms of ID making sure all the information was correct, before accepting pay. “Good job Ellen Sue, you did that perfect! Now I don’t ask everybody to show ID and take a number the way Miz Tisdale did, I just ask for ID from those I don’t know very well, so ask everybody if that makes you more comfortable when I’m not here,” BL said. At Base Camp, Luke and his team got to know the dogs. See how they were harnessed up for jumps and searches. The instructor asked before the break, "So, are there any questions?" Casey spoke up, "Which one is ours?" The trainer laughed, "Well, if you all are on board with the new program, ..." He walked over and took the leash of a medium brown miniature Dachshund and brought him over to Casey and Lisa, "This is Scrapie. Why don't ya’ll get to know each other on break." Meanwhile back in Hazzard, BL was getting ready to show Ellen Sue how helpful Sadie was delivering the mail. “You ready Ellen Sue, delivering the mail is the funnest part of the job, for me and Sadie, Miz Tisdale seemed to enjoy it too. She tickled me the way she zipped around on her motorcycle,” BL said grinning. “Ready when you are. What's so fun about driving all over the county:? Ellen Sue asked. ”You’ll see, C’mon Sadie, time to deliver the mail,” BL replied. Sadie ran to the post office’s back door wagging her tail. In the car, Ellen Sue got in BL’s passenger seat and they headed out of town, first stopping at Grannie Annie Coggins “here Sadie take this to Grannie,” BL gave Sadie the small stack of mail. Ellen Sue was about to get out of the car and let Sadie out, when the dog leaped over the side of the car, leaping back in with one graceful jump, her task complete. The same performance was repeated at the Widow Baxley, Tolliver, Marley and Venible farms. “Wow BL that’s amazing, How’d you teach her to do that”? Ellen Sue asked, amazed “I didn’t teach her to take the mail to folks, just told her to and she did,” BL replied. At Tri Counties, Dixie was having her own difficulties. It was Monday morning and she was dealing with everyone who had been arrested, transported to tri counties over the weekend who had not bonded out but desperately wanted to contact friends, family, anyone who would come post bond for them. Dixie worked her floor with all the normal activities that went on while trying to give the inmates in the holding cells ample time in the booking room where they had access to the phone at an unheard of cost to call across town. By lunch, anyone who could have bonded out had done so. Dixie sat down after lunch was served on her floor for the first time in her shift. Her boots felt tight as she loosened her laces a bit. At Base Camp, Scrapie wasn't all that sure that he wanted to meet new people and managed to give a low growl as he was petted and loved on by all. In Hazzard, Daisy finished her housework, brought in the laundry and folded it but she didn’t have time to put it away before leaving for work so left Bo’s on his bed, Uncle Jesse’s on his bed and her own in the chair in her room, she'd put it away tomorrow. Bo was hoeing the garden as Daisy left, waving as she went by. Bo couldn’t wait for ‘happy hour’ at the Boar’s Nest. He was looking forward to a cold beer or 2 and hearing about everybody’s day. Back in the training room, the Trainers began going over the care that was expected for Scrapie. One of the requirements had the girls and even the crew begin to look from one to the other when the trainer advised that when not working or at Base Camp Scrapie would live with one of the handlers. He noticed something was amiss with the crew, "What? Is something wrong?" It was Luke who responded, "During fire season, these guys all share a house. There is a no pet clause." He said knowingly as he too had shared the house previously. "Well, that really should not be an issue. Scrapie is not a pet." the Trainer said. Luke nodded, "That may or may not work, but what if I take the training to be a handler? If their landlord raises a fuss, then I could take him home with me." The crew was all for that. "I don't see a problem. The more handlers we have, the better the program should do." At the garage in Hazzard, Cooter had tried to keep out of Luther’s way. So when a wrecker call came in from Dobro Doolin he wasted no time saying he was on his way, “be back as soon as I can Dad,” Cooter said as he walked toward the wrecker. What he saw when he got to the right place on route 4 was the two prettiest girls he’d ever seen, pulling around in front of the old Buick that was spewing steam like a geyser. Cooter parked on the shoulder of the road. “Whewee she sure is hot, where you ladies headed?” Cooter said then added “I’m Cooter Davenport.” “I’m Susie and this is my best friend, Katie Beth. We’re on our way to Dixville County” Susie replied. “Nice to meet you ladies, looks like its the radiator, tell you what, I’ll tow ya’ll back to town and while I work on your car you can go to the cafe or coffee shop, get out of this heat awhile.” Cooter said. In no time flat the car was hooked up and they were all headed back to the garage. A few minutes later, Dobro pulled up to the garage, slicked his hair back with his fingers and went into the garage trying to look innocent as he was looking around for the girls who were in the Buick. Not seeing them, he had to ask, "Where's the girls?" Cooter motioned toward town, "The coffee shop, Cafe, likely somewhere cooler than here." "You let them get away?" Dobro said glumly. "It's not like they won't be back for their car." Cooter said. "Is it serious?" Dobro asked, a bit hopeful. "Hole in the radiator. Some stop leak should have them on their way." Cooter said. Dobro looked at him like he had three heads, "Are you crazy? Surely, it would be better to drain the radiator, clean it real good, and weld that hole up proper like. That way we could get to know them a bit, maybe talk them into staying a bit longer, go to the Boar's Nest with us." Dobro was too busy talking to notice Cooter trying to hush him as the girls in question walked into the garage behind Dobro. “Well what's the problem,”Susie asked, getting straight to the point. “You got yourselves a hole in the radiator, ladies,” Cooter replied. “How long will it take to fix it? Katie Beth, spoke for the first time. “Well not long, maybe half hour to an hour, if I just use some stop leak of course that ain’t no permanent fix, you’ll still need to take it in to a garage and have that hole welded up,” Mary Beth spoke up again, asking “how long will that take?” “A few hours atleast, the radiator will need a good cleaning after it’s drained before it can be welded,” Cooter explained. “We got a nice hotel, real affordable if ya’ll got time to stick around. You should get that radiator fixed proper as soon as possible and Cooter’s the best mechanic in the state,” Dobro boasted. The young ladies looked at each other for a moment then Katie Beth asked “where’s the hotel?” “Hop in my car there yonder and I’ll take you,” Dobro said. “I’ll get those for you ma’am” Cooter helped Susie put a couple suitcases in Dobro’s car, adding “I'll get on this radiator first thing tomorrow, I got a coupla jobs to wrap up before I can start on this.” Dobro saw Cooter was being all business, so he knew if they were gonna ask the girls out, that he'd be the one asking. "Ladies, since ya'll are stuck here tonight and all, would ya'll maybe care to join us for a bite to eat, maybe a beer." "That sounds good, Susie said. “Ya’ll give me about an hour and we’ll all go over to the Boar’s Nest, the beer’s watered down but they got the best barbeque this side of the Mississippi,” Cooter replied. Dobro took the girls to the hotel and got them settled. At the garage Cooter did a few more small jobs then went to the bathroom in the back of the garage to get cleaned up and put on a clean shirt. An hour later exactly Dobro picked up Katie Beth, in his car and Cooter picked up Susie in the wrecker, then they all went to the Boar’s Nest, where Daisy saw the guys come in with two girls she’d never seen before, going over she asked, “what can I get ya’ll? I’m Daisy by the way.” “Daisy this is Susie and Katie Beth, they had some car trouble and are staying at the hotel tonight until I can fix it tomorrow,” Cooter replied, then continued as he looked at each girl, “is the barbeque plate ok with ya’ll? It comes with fries and coleslaw.” Both nodded ‘yes’ so Cooter ordered 4 BBQ plates and 4 beers. Dixie's day at Tri-Counties was pretty normal, if there was such a thing. She had changed into jeans and was heading home, figuring to meet everyone at the Boar's Nest. Luke's day had been anything but normal. After the training, it was decided that the best course of action for Scrapie until they could get it approved with the girls' landlord would be to go home with Luke. So with a carrier in the back of the truck, a blanket, toys, leash, food, food bowls and Scrapie himself in Luke's passenger seat, he set out for Hazzard. Occasionally, Luke reached over to pet the little guy who seemed content enough to be petted after he had warmed up to the crew. By the time they reached Hazzard, Scrapie was standing with his front paws on the dash, the window seal, then on the arm rest. His nose was constantly going, his ears were flipped back. He was enjoying all the new smells of the country. BL smiled as she checked to make sure the post office back door was locked, it seemed like Ellen Sue was going to work out just fine. “Well, what do you think Sadie, you think Ellen Sue’s gonna work out?” BL headed for the Boar’s Nest. Sadie woofed her approval from the passenger seat, watching all the cars they met. Bo sat the last haybale on the stack, then picked up his shirt putting it back on and walking over, getting in General Lee, “Cold beer here I come,” Bo said aloud as he headed for the Boar’s Nest. Dixie pulled into the Boar's Nest only seeing the wrecker, Dobro's car and a few more cars, but not Luke's truck, the General Lee nor BL's cars were there yet. She checked the clock and shrugged her shoulders. She must have been thrifty as she was a few minutes earlier than normal. She took a minute to run a brush through her hair and went in to see if it was Cooter or her father in the wrecker. As she walked in Daisy asked on her way to take drinks to a table, "Hey Sugar. What will you be drinking?" Dixie replied, "It's hot out there. Iced tea and a lot of lemon." She wondered how long she could not order beer without raising people's suspicions. Luke pulled into the Boar’s Nest, put Scrapie's official training vest on him, attached his leash and said, "Alright, Scrapie, ready to have some fun with Ol Rosco?" He let Scrapie explore and wash his tires before they headed inside the bar. BL noticed the wrecker, Dobro’s car and several other cars were at the Boar’s Nest as she turned in. Dixie’s car and Luke’s truck were there already, she had dropped Sadie off at the cabinet shop, it was just too danged hot to leave the poor thing in the car while she was inside. BL checked her watch thinking she was bad late because both Dixie and Luke had got there before her. Bo came in, dust flying as he came to a screeching halt, climbing out the window, his boots hitting the gravel hard, he hurried to catch up with BL. Putting an arm around her waist, making it look like they’d come together instead of just meeting in the parking lot. “Hey darlin,” Bo kissed BL’s cheek. ”Hey Bo,” BL replied. No one paid Luke anymore attention today than they ever did when he walked in. No one even noticed the leash he was holding. Dixie was at an empty table, but it was beside Cooter’s table. She looked up from her conversation, saw Luke walk in and turned her attention back to the conversation at hand, "You'll get to meet my husband in just a second. He just came in." Dixie said to Cooter’s date. Luke leaned across the table, greeted Dixie with a kiss, sat down and patted his leg. Scrapie jumped immediately into his lap for a couple of reasons; one, he was trained to follow the handlers and two, the room was beginning to get crowded and Luke was the only one he knew. Now, Luke was getting more attention than normal all at the same time. Dixie asked, "Luke, who is your friend?" She saw the vest and though she wanted to love on the little guy knew better. Daisy was bringing Luke a beer when she saw the dog in the bar, "Luke, Honey, your friend sure is cute and all but he can't be in here, you know that. Though I'd rather have him than most of the paying customers." She let her hand drop to pet Scrapie. He backed up closer to Luke but gave Daisy the lowest growl. Luke scolded them both, "Scrapie hush. Daisy, you know not to come at him that way. He don't know you." Bo and BL went over to where Dixie and Luke sat, not really thinking he reached to pet the little dog on Luke’s lap the same way he did Flash, getting the same low growl Daisy had. Again Luke scolded both dog and cousin, “Scrapie hush, Bo you're as bad as Daisy, you know better than to reach out like that. He don’t know you.” “Aww Luke don’t scold him, the dog that is not Bo. Scrapie was only giving Bo a warning, you’d growl too if you was his size and seen that big ol’ hand coming at you, could be trouble,” BL said then continued, grinning “I should know.” “Cute,” Bo said, pretending to be put out. “I know I am,” BL replied, smirking. Cooter cleared his throat to get the other’s attention “Susie, Katie Beth this is Bo Duke, Luke’s and Daisy's cousin and the sassy blonde there is mine and Dixie’s cousin BL,” “Luke you know Rosco’s gonna have a conniption if he sees that dog in here,” BL said. Luke didn’t look worried and replied, “let him, ain’t really nothing he can do about it, as long as Scrapie’s wearing his vest.” “Speak of the devil,” Bo said when he saw Rosco come out of Boss Hogg’s office with Flash in his arms. As Rosco walked through the bar, he glanced around, seeing the Davenports and Dukes. There was Cooter, Bo, Luke, Luke's dog. Rosco thought. Then he said aloud to himself lowly, "Luke's dog. Luke don't have no dog. Luke does have a dog. That dog can't be in here." He turned to Luke and said louder, "Alright, Luke Duke you can't have a dog in here." Luke knew all eyes were on him.Dixie gave Cooter's lady friends an assuring look. Luke took a sip of his beer and asked, "Why not?" “Dogs ain’t allowed. That’s why not!” Rosco replied with an attitude. Bo put a few pieces of popcorn in his mouth, watching Luke spar with Rosco was better than anything on television. “You got Flash,” Luke said. “That’s different,” Rosco replied. “How so?” Luke retorted. BL took a drink of her beer watching the ‘show’ like everyone else in the bar. “Flash is a police dog,” Rosco said as justification for the basset hound’s presence. “Scrapie is a certified arson dog,” Luke said, pointing to Scrapie’s vest which said Arson Response K-9 In Training. "Certified Arson dog. My foot. What's this in training about?" Rosco questioned. Luke took another sip of his beer. "He's fully trained in Arson Detection, but still in training while he and my team complete training with him. Right now, he's working on his social skills." “What’s he need social skills for if he detects arson?” Rosco kept coming up with a new question for every answer Luke gave him. Dixie decided to see if she could ‘help’ since she had some knowledge on dogs who sniff out drugs, bombs and even aided in finding lost people, “Scrapie ain’t just going to encounter the same people everyday the way Flash does, he’s going to encounter strangers and lots of them. He can’t growl at them or worse try to bite them just because they try to touch him.” “Ok well I see your point there, biting is a naughty, naughty,” Rosco said. BALLADEER: The entire time Rosco talked, Flash never acknowledged that Scrapie was there. Most likely because he didn't have the energy. Scrapie also just watched the Sheriff and paid no attention to Flash. Luke instructed, " Scrapie let's work. Rosco put your hand out and let him smell it." Rosco did. Scrapie sniffed the Sheriff's hand once, twice, then sat back down on Luke's lap content. Luke replied, "Good job." And then gave Scrapie a small treat. Bo said, "Now wait a second. He growled at me when I tried to pet him." Luke nodded, "Put your hand out for him to smell." Bo did. Scrapie took a couple sniffs and sat down contently. Luke said, "Relax Scrapie. Now Bo, pet him." Scrapie sat there and let Bo pet him, but watched him closely. Luke gave him another treat. ”I gotta get, Daddy was moaning and groaning this morning about me abandoning him all weekend and he about starved to death. Luke, why don’t you and Dixie come for supper and bring Scrapie so him and Sadie can play,” BL said. “You coming Bo?” BL asked. “You bet darlin, I never turn down food, unless it’s pecan pie,” Bo replied. Luke waited for Dixie to answer. Dixie replied, "Sure, just as long as ya'll don't let your Aunts know. They would be beside themselves if they knew I wasn't cooking Luke's every meal." Bo replied, "Well, he has gotten a little thinner." Luke shot him a warning look. “Keep talking about my cousin that way and I’ll see that Daisy puts starch in your shorts and gives you cold grits for a week,” BL threatened. “I’d hush while I’m still ahead if I were you cousin,” Luke said. “I’ll see ya’ll in a while,” BL replied, heading for the door. Luke gave BL a little wave, "We'll be along in a bit. We'll likely drop a vehicle off and ride together like we like each other or something." "Cute." Dixie said. Taking a line from Bo, Luke replied, "I know." "Lucas Duke, one of these days...." Dixie said playfully. BL went by the cabinet shop before going home, just to see if Clyde was working late and she needed to pick up Sadie, the closed sign was in the window so she headed home. At home, Clyde was sitting on the porch swing, Sadie lay beside him. LB pulled in the driveway behind her. Dixie, Luke and Bo are coming for supper,” BL said to the men. Sadie hopped off the swing, barking a couple times to get BL’s attention, “And Luke has a new friend he’s bringing for you to play with,” BL leaned down to pet Sadie. “Luke got a dog? Did he talk it over with Dixie? I know she likes dogs but…” Clyde asked. “Well not exactly,” BL told them about Scrapie being an arson dog. “Luke can tell you more about it when they get here,” BL went inside to change clothes and cook supper. About 10 minutes later Bo pulled up at Clyde’s farm, getting out of General he saw LB and Clyde coming back from the goat pasture “hey LB, what’s shakin’? “Howdy Clyde.” “Not much was just another day, another dollar earned,” LB replied. “Come on up to the porch Bo, BL’s in the house cooking supper,” Clyde said. After parking her car, Dixie waved at Mrs. Kravitz then opened the door to Luke's truck. Sitting in her seat was Scrapie. "Alright fella. You got to move it a bit." Scrapie just looked at her and rolled over. Dixie moved her hand intending to move Scrapie. Scrapie gave just the smallest low growl. Luke reached over and picked him up, "You can't be growling like that. Scrapie licked his face as Dixie got in the truck. "It takes him some time to warm up to people." Luke said. "Not that I mind, ummmm, .... how and why do we have Scrapie," Dixie asked. Luke had expected this conversation sooner, "He's a new program. He's gonna work with the team, the girls will be the primary handlers, but Mr. Short won't stand for 'pets'. Yes, I know he's not a pet, but out here in the country is better for him. Besides, it keeps the crew from being hassled. After getting a beef roast in the oven, BL came back out onto the porch. It would take the meat awhile to cook, so she had a bit before she needed to put everything else on. “The beef roast will take about an hour,” BL said sitting beside Bo on the porch, Sadie getting between them, the same way she had at the movies last night until BL had moved her. Clyde had been keeping an eye on Bo and BL the last couple months, he believed Bo was a good man but he’d also heard the talk around the county for years, he didn’t want to see his baby girl hurt. Dixie let Scrapie sit on the folded down armrest / console, but put her hand near him. Then let him smell her hand, then began stroking his head. Scrapie let her pet him, even licked her hand but occasionally gave just a grr or gruff of a growl. "Look, Scrapie, if you are gonna be around, we may as well be friends." Dixie said. Luke gave a slight grin and asked, "Do you mind?" Dixie smiled back, "You know I love animals. No, of course, I don't mind, but I do want to be friends." Luke reached in his pocket and handed her some treats. "Try these." Dixie laughed, "Bribery?" She fed Scrapie a treat, then said, "OK, Scrapie. I'm gonna pet you and you're not going to growl." Scrapie replied with a small whine. Dixie patted his head then scratched his ears. No growls. Dixie said, "See you are a good boy." She gave him another treat as they pulled into BL's. Luke got out of the truck then reached in to get Scrapie, although he seemed willing to be friends enough to let Dixie pet him, he wasn’t ready to let her pick him up yet. Putting Scrapie’s leash on but not the vest this time, he set Scrapie on the ground “alright Scrapie you be nice, no growling, ain’t nobody here gonna hurt ya,” Luke said, going around to open Dixie’s door. Dixie got out and walked with Luke and Scrapie toward the others on the porch. Luke had the leash in his left hand with his right gently around Dixie's waist. Clyde was watching the older Duke's interaction with his niece more than he was watching the new dog. Luke's familiarity with Dixie was easy, real easy. Clyde could see how that could get under Luther's skin. Sadie jumped to her feet emitting a low growl seeing a strange dog in her domain, not really a sound of aggression but definitely not friendly, “Sadie hush! What’s gotten into you, you don’t act like that with Flash,” BL scolded. “It’s alright BL, she just ain’t used to another dog on her turf,” Luke said, keeping Scrapie on a short leash, while BL held onto Sadie’s collar letting the two dogs get each other’s scent a safe distance apart for now. After a few minutes, both dogs seemed alright with each other. Luke and the crew had worked with Scrapie enough that Luke trusted him enough to let him off his leash. "Want to play? Here, Scrapie, go play." Luke said, unclicking the leash. Scrapie noticed Sadie was a girl. Sadie, who was much bigger than Scrapie, wasn't interested and ran. Scrapie ran after her. A playful game of tag ensued. Luke told Clyde and LB about the program the forestry service was trying out with the arson dogs and how his team shared a house but the girls that had trained to be handler, couldn’t take Scrapie home with them due to a no pets clause in their lease so he had taken the training and brought Scrapie home with him, meanwhile BL and Dixie finished cooking supper. “Why don’t we eat out here at the picnic table, that way we can keep an eye on the pups while they play,” BL suggested to everybody when she came to tell them it was done. “Sounds good to me, it was hot and stuffy at work,” Dixie said. The men agreed. So they had a nice supper in the cool shade of the oak tree. Sadie and Scrapie took a rest on the porch but were now back at it, Sadie was pinning Scrapie to the ground by putting her leg over him. To some watching at a distance it might’ve looked like the bigger dog was being aggressive but as soon as Scrapie got loose another game of chase ensued. After supper LB left to go see Polly Parker, a girl he’d been seeing off and on for a couple months. The girls left the rest of the men to watch the dogs and talk while they cleaned up, then returned to the porch. Dixie sat down on the step below where Luke sat resting herself against him as he talked. Luke had anticipated her movements and had changed position so she could sit down. Bo saw BL walking toward where he sat on the swing. He had shifted to the end of the swing with his arm on the swing back. When BL sat down, Bo's arm fell easily around her shoulder. He couldn't put his finger on why, but these little movements by the kids were getting under Clyde's skin. Then the why had hit him. He knew his niece was married to the oldest Duke, so he knew she had been in his arms and his bed. Clyde looked to his daughter and Bo Duke. Something had changed, this wasn't just his daughter beating him in pool. No, in his mind, something here had changed. The dogs had worn themselves out and came up on the porch, Scrapie flopped down beside Luke and Sadie went over to where BL and Bo were on the swing, flopping at BL’s feet, it was a bit cooler down on the cement porch. Luke was telling Clyde about how Rosco had reacted to Scrapie being in the Boar’s Nest. “You should have seen the look on his face when I told him about Scrapie being an arson dog and showed him the writing on Scrapie’s vest,” Luke chuckled. “Wouldn’t it really bug him if Sadie had a U.S.A postal carrier vest,” BL said. “Yeah it would, can’t you make one?” Bo asked, grinning. “Bo, I can’t just make a vest and pretend it's from the postal service, just to get Rosco’s goat,” BL replied then continued “can I Dixie?” BL asked her cousin, the only law enforcement in the county that didn’t try to pass off phony laws, usually at Boss Hogg’s orders. Dixie thought about it, "I don't really know, but we all know someone who knows those blamed postal regulations up one side and down the other. We can ask Miz Tisdale the next time we see her. Sadie does help deliver the mail, so it's not a stretch. If it can happen, she would be all game to get Rosco." They all had a good laugh. Luke looked down where Scrapie was laid out by his foot, "Scrapie, are you ready to go see your home away from home, at least for awhile?" Scrapie jumped up at his name, ready for anything. “I best be getting home too, still have to do the evening chores,” Bo said, not moving though. “It’s still early, we can come out and I’ll help ya,” Luke offered. “It’s alright, go on home and get Scrapie settled,” Bo replied. “Ok, we’ll see ya tomorrow, come on Scrapie let’s go,” Luke helped Dixie up, then put his right arm around her waist, leaving Scrapie off his leash as the three went to the truck. Bo finally stood up and BL stood with him, Sadie coming alive, not about to be left behind. Walking to General Lee, Bo put his arm around BL’s waist in the same comfortable, familiar way Clyde saw Luke do with Dixie and it just set the wrong way for some reason. Bo stopped when the cab of Clyde’s truck blocked the view of the couple from the porch. Bo pulled BL to him and cupped the back of her head, lowering his lips to hers for a slow deep kiss. BL and Sadie came back on the porch as Bo headed out. Clyde let his chair come back down on its four feet, looked at BL, and asked, "Ain't you been seeing a lot of that boy lately?" BALLADEER:Friends, this don’t look good. BL shrugged, not sure what the big deal was all of the sudden. Sitting back down on the swing, rubbing Sadie’s belly with her toes. Clyde asked, "So when is the last time you went out with anyone else?" “I don’t remember but what does it matter? I ain’t in high school now, back then a different boy every week was ok, they call girls my age trollips if they change guys as often as socks,” BL replied. Clyde wouldn't disagree with BL’s points but said, "It's just that how many young men are gonna ask you out if they think you are someone's steady date. You aren't, are you?" “So what if I am? Me and Bo have known each other our whole lives just about and I know just about all there is to know about him. Wouldn’t you rather I know a guy before things get serious than find out bad things he did after things get serious?” BL asked. Clyde said, "Well, Jesse raised them boys right, but as for bad things, he's done, .... I could likely make a list a mile long. Just for starters, he's dated every waitress at the Boar's Nest besides Daisy. He's led them on and then showed up with another one. If you look around that there Post Office of yours, I'm sure you'll find about a half a dozen wanted posters on Bo and Luke, for that matter. “I mean really bad things Daddy like forcing himself on a girl and taking advantage of her. He has played around I’ll give you that but so have alot of guys,” BL said, thinking LB for one. Her brother was on his third girl this month but she kept that to herself. The only wanted posters the post office gets are big time criminals,” BL said, having what she thought were reasonable explanations for all her father’s concerns. "It seems I remember one for bank robbery, another for armored car robbery. " Clyde knew Rosco and Boss, but he was trying to prove a point. “Those were frame ups and you know it! Bo nor Luke for that matter would ever do those kinds of things,” BL said, adding “anymore than I would commit mail fraud, which Boss Hogg framed me for and I was arrested,” BL was trying to make her own point. Clyde huffed, "Don't mention all that to me. My girl arrested for the love of God. Your mother would have a fit." Clyde took a breath, let it out and asked the question he knew he may not want to know the answer to, "Are you serious about that Duke?" “Yes sir, Bo ain’t flirted with or even really talked to another single girl since we’ve been going out," BL replied. Clyde shook his head. It was true. He hadn't seen Bo with any other girl but he hadn't been watching him closely like he now planned to do. "Alright, so ya'll are steady dating. BL, is it more serious?" BL knew exactly what she was being asked but wasn’t about to open a whole new can of worms so asked a question back, “what do you mean exactly by more serious?” Clyde suddenly stood up, walked to the far end of the porch then back stopping in front of BL, "I'm trying real hard not to be Luther. But, Brandy Lou Davenport, ... are you sharing his bed?" BL’s eyes opened wide, she could not believe he’d asked her that straight out. Not wanting to tell a bold face lie about being with Bo even though it was just once, she answered truthfully to the direct question “you know Uncle Jesse don’t allow no such behavior in his house,” BL continued before Clyde could say more “and he ain’t been in my bed either, he don’t have a death wish to do that in your house right under your nose.” Clyde felt he needed answers now or never, "You lived in town for months, Brandy Lou." He said sternly. “He stayed ONE night, during that time but so did Cooter, Luke, Daisy and Dixie,” BL said, putting emphasis on one. “The guys all camped out downstairs in the livingroom and us girls slept upstairs. Clyde dropped his head a bit, "I'm sorry, I just want what's best for you even if you don't agree with me all the time. I know both those boys seem to have calmed down some. But, I just don't see that one ever settling down. Just don't make the mistake of getting knocked up. He'd drop you like a hot potato if he was given half a chance." Clyde stomped off the porch. He needed a walk. BL put her head in her hands, she hadn’t told a bold face lie but she hadn’t been totally honest, truth was she knew the disappointment she’d have seen in Clyde’s eyes had she told him she had been with Bo. He’d been wrong about Bo’s actions if he ever got her pregnant, he’d stayed with her all week when he didn’t know for sure, he could have cut and run but hadn’t. “C’mon Sadie, Mama needs a drive,” BL went inside to get her keys and leave Clyde a note. Gone for a drive needed to think’ BL left a note on the door and went to her car and headed out to where she didn’t know exactly.. In town, Luke parked his truck behind Dixie's car. "Scrapie, do you want to see your yard boy? Come on." Luke, Dixie and Scrapie walked to the back of the house for Scrapie to explore and mark his territory everywhere that Sadie had marked it. Dixie watched the playful dog going from place to place peeing, "This could take awhile. Want anything?" "A beer would be good." Luke said. Dixie returned a few minutes later with Luke's beer, her iced tea and Scrapie a bowl of water for the back porch. "I figured he'd be parched by now as much as he has peed." Luke grinned as he took a sip of beer. He saw the iced tea Dixie held. Before Luke could say anything, both he and Dixie heard BL's car pass the house. "Wonder where she's going?" Luke asked. Dixie replied, "Well, it wasn't here, it's not to see Bo, ..." She said, noting the direction BL was heading. “Hang on, I’ll radio and see what she’s doing,” Dixie said, heading inside grabbing her car keys then going out to her Thunderbird, sitting in the seat and cranking it. Picking up the CB mic and keying it, “Little Shotgun to Sweet Talker, come back,” Dixie hailed her cousin. “Sweet Talker here,” BL picked up and keyed her mic. “Something wrong? Me and Luke heard your car pass the house but you didn’t stop,” Dixie said. “I got some things on my mind, was just driving and thinking,” BL replied. Dixie replied, "Alright. Yell or stop back by if you need anything. Scrapie is watering the yard so we are out back." “I could use a little girl talk, if Luke don’t mind me borrowing you for a little bit. Say at the old playground, where we all met up when we skipped school or work in Luke’s and Cooter’s case,” BL replied. "I can do that. Give me a few minutes." Dixie replied, then went to the backyard. "Would you mind bonding with Scrapie alone for a bit? BL needs to talk a bit." Luke waved her on, "Go ahead. I'm gonna take his crate in with his bowls, toys and such, then get him fed so we can all relax when you get back." "Sounds good. I'll be right back." Dixie said about to head to the car. Luke said, "Come on Scrapie, let's go move the truck." Luke said. Dixie nodded, "It would be easier that way." After Luke moved his truck, Dixie got in her car and headed to the old playground. BL paced back and forth in front of her car until Dixie pulled in behind the GTO and Sadie put a paw on the back of her leg. “I think, no I know me and Bo are busted,” BL said, by way of greeting. Dixie was confused, "Busted? How? What are you talking about?" “After you, Luke and Bo left, out of nowhere Daddy asked me and I quote, ‘ain’t you seeing alot of that boy lately?’, BL replied. Dixie nodded, "Gosh I hated those talks, though most of those actual talks came from Mom. I think that is why I just didn't go out much. But, you know, .... you have been seeing a lot of Bo." Dixie couldn't resist egging BL on just a bit. “Hey now! You’re supposed to be on my side. It got worse from there. Daddy asked was I serious about Bo, no big deal there really…But then he asked if I was sharing Bo’s bed. Dixie I was mortified,” BL replied. "Surely not as mortified as I was getting caught in the back seat of the General with Luke by two State Troopers." Dixie reminded. "You are an adult. You were living on your own. Wouldn't he rather ya’'ll to share a bed than roll in the hay." “No that was worse,” BL said remembering well. “He’d rather we don’t do either. I took the question at face value and answered literally, that he knew Uncle Jesse wouldn’t allow that to go on in his house. I added Bo didn’t have no death wish to be in my bed right under his nose. I left out the other night at the house in town, ALL we did that night was sleep, you should know cos you and Luke were across the hall,” BL said. Dixie gave BL a look. "You can tell him anything you want to, but if ya'll hadn't gotten real lucky, it wouldn't have mattered what you had told before. Everyone would have known just how close ya'll have become." “I know that. I would have told him if there was reason to but there’s not. So no harm done right?” BL said. "Right. So, why are we out here with you freaking out?" Dixie asked. “I don’t know, he just blindsided me. Go home to your husband and Scrapie. I’ll see ya’ll tomorrow. BL said. 'I'm here with you. Now, what gives that this is picking now for you to freak out about." Dixie said. “I don’t know,” BL said, she really didn’t know why she was so freaked out. Dixie replied, "So sit down over here and let's figure it out." Dixie said. BL gave the chains on the swing a good yank, the swings frame was rusted and so were the chains, it all seemed sturdy enough still, so she sat down on the swing’s seat replying. “Maybe I freaked because we were being watched closer than I realized.” Dixie knew the feeling of being watched too closely for her liking, "Now you know how I felt when I first got back." “Yeah I do and I have the feeling it ain’t over,” BL replied. Sadie had wandered a ways away once Dixie had calmed BL down, sniffing at some weeds the dog jumped back startled when a rabbit hopped out. Startled quickly turned into a chase. "Why do you think that? Have you and Bo come to terms with ya’lls 'near miss'?" Dixie asked. “Why do I think that?” BL repeated. “Because as reasonable as Daddy usually is, has its limits and like it or not, I’ll always be his baby girl. Same way you’ll always be Luther’s,” BL continued. “What exactly do you mean by 'come to terms’?”, BL asked. Dixie nodded. She knew BL was right about being Luther's baby girl. "I mean, there is only one sure way for it not to happen again. Are you both really gonna go back to holding hands or risk that happening again? Next time, it might not be a false alarm and if it's not then are you both prepared to face that?" Dixie added, "With Luke and me it was only a matter of time before we would have married. This just forced us to hurry things along." Dixie said, rubbing her flat belly. “No we ain’t going back to just holding hands. Yeah we are, the night of the reception we took Sadie for a walk and Bo asked me was I ready to settle down even if there was no baby,” BL replied. Dixie listened to her cousin. Then asked, "So,.... are ya’ll engaged? Officially?" She thought for sure this was something BL would have told her by now. Caught a bit off guard, BL nearly fell off the swing, “engaged? No, not officially or unofficially, that has been the only time the subject has ever been brought up,” BL shook her head ‘no’. Dixie couldn't help herself, she had to repeat what she was hearing, "OK, So ya'll are just gonna keep messing around and if and when you get pregnant, ya'll are both good with settling down because there is a baby coming? BL? Really?" “Dixie the ONLY baby coming is YOURS and LUKE’S,” BL said, stressing the words only, yours and Luke. “I told you I was getting birth control as soon as you went to the doctor, remember, unless you ain’t going anytime soon,” BL said. Dixie reminded, "No birth control is full proof." “I know that proof is sitting next to me. But maybe if Bo wears protection AND I’m taking birth control we’ll be atleast partially safe,” BL replied. By now Sadie had given up on her rabbit chase and come back, laying under the shade. "Maybe." Dixie said, "But if you want Bo as your husband, waiting until you might get pregnant may not be the best way to get him." “I agree but it’s not just the matter of me wanting him as a husband. He has to want me for a wife,” BL replied. Dixie replied, "Exactly. So if he asked you if you were ready to settle down, was that a proposal or not?" “Could have been, I really didn’t answer him. I suppose me and him should have a conversation and put all our cards on the table and make sure we’re on the same page, huh? BL asked, looking at Dixie. Dixie looked at BL. "You need to know where Bo stands and what you expect before you put yourself in a situation that you think that you know what you are expecting from him." “I know, it just never seems like a good time for what may be the most important conversation we will ever have,” BL replied. "I understand, but you both owe it to each other before you both continue. You both may be expecting far more of each other than either of you know and that's just not fair." Dixie explained. “You’re right, I’ll do my best this weekend to make time for us to go somewhere quiet and talk, BL said. Dixie said slowly, "You have to know where each other stands. Luke has my back no matter what. Just like with Scrapie, I have his. He didn't have to ask." “I hear you and understand,” BL assured her cousin. Dixie added, "Bo is a good guy, but you both need to know what the other expects. Now I got to get home before Scrapie thinks he can sleep in my spot." “Who says he won’t think that even if you’re home?” BL grinned, getting off the swing. “C’mon Sadie, let's go home,” BL called, heading to her car. When Dixie walked into the living room, Scrapie was up and barking. Luke laid his hand on the dog's back, "Easy fella, she lives here too." Scrapie gave another half woof and laid back down by Luke's left leg. Dixie went to the couch to sit beside Luke. Scrapie moved closer to Luke with a grunt of protest. "I think you are becoming his human." Dixie said, snuggling against Luke around Scrapie. "He'll learn that Lisa and Casey are his humans." Luke said. At the Duke farm, Bo was going through his dresser drawers, looking for the velvet ring boxes that contained his mother’s engagement ring and the wedding band his father had put on her finger when they got married. He couldn’t have really explained why it was so important to locate them, this very night but something told him it was. Daisy came in the house quietly after closing the Boar's Nest. As she quietly made her way down the hall she heard a dresser draw shut, then another. She could see the light shining under Bo's door. Knocking quietly, Daisy asked “Bo did you lose something?” “No, just didn’t remember which drawer I put the chore money I been saving in,” Bo replied. He knew if he told Daisy what he was really looking for, she’d wake the whole county and have his wedding planned before he even gave the ring to his girl. “Ok, goodnight,” Daisy said, going to her room. “Night Daisy,” Bo replied. Daisy heard several more drawers open and close before Bo laid down. He had laid down but sleep was nowhere near. He was trying to come to terms with what he would have done if BL had been pregnant. He knew after the fact, what Luke went through to convince Dixie he was not marrying her because she was pregnant. Bo drifted off into a half sleep....he and Luke were driving down a Hazzard back road when he glanced in his rear view mirror and saw a backseat filled with pink car seats. Bo sat up so fast he fell right out of his bed and landed with a loud thump on the floor. Bo scrubbed his face with both hands, he hoped atleast two of those carseats had belonged to Luke. Jesse Duke had trained himself long ago when the boys and Daisy were little, to wake at the slightest sound from their bedrooms and which room it came from. Hearing the loud thump, he got up and went to his nephew’s room, “Bo are you alright,”? Jesse asked as he came in just as Bo was getting off the floor. “Yes sir, I’m fine Uncle Jesse,” Bo replied. Bo got out of the floor and sat on the side of his bed. His breathing was short and fast as if he'd been running a foot race. Bo tried to go back to sleep but he kept seeing those pink carseats and he thought about David and Jeannie Ann having twins, the thought of having twins of his own scared him but not as bad as the idea of having twin girls. In town, Luke had set up Scrapie's small crate across the bedroom, put a small bowl of food and water out and an emergency training pad. As Dixie sat on the bed, she gave Luke the biggest puppy dog eyes, "You aren't gonna make him sleep in there are you?" Luke knew he was beat. "It's set up and open. If he feels more comfy there he can sleep there." Luke sat down on the bed leaving Scrapie in the floor. Scrapie checked out the pad, the bowls and went in the crate. He laid down looking out the open door giving his own puppy dog eyes. Luke merely said, "Alright,...." With that alone, Scrapie went to the bed’s edge to be picked up since he had been trained not to jump on furniture because it is bad for their backs. "Just don't rat me out to Lisa and Casey." Luke said as he and Dixie were being covered in wet puppy dog kisses. BL had gone home thinking about all she and Dixie had talked about, mentally exhausted from the talk with Clyde then Dixie, hugging Sadie as she drifted into a restless sleep. The next morning Bo came in first thing before the Post Office got busy, he had an important question for BL. “Morning Bo, you’re kind of early to pick up the mail, I just barely got started sorting it,” BL said. “It’s ok darlin’ I ain’t here for the mail. I wanted to ask ya something that ain’t nobody’s business but ours, so thought it best to ask in person,” Bo replied. BL said, “Ok, what is it?” Bo took a breath, picturing the General Lee’s backseat full of carseats “are there twins in your family?” BL replied, “I don’t think so, Mama was an only child.” Bo nodded, feeling a bit better, "What about in the Davenports? I ain't really ever paid attention before." “No just Luther, Daddy and BB’s dad Uncle Bufford,” BL shook her head ‘no’ replying, wondering why the family tree quiz. Bo took in a deeper breath, feeling that it might be safe to breathe now. "Ok. Good. Great, great, yeah,... really great." “Something else on your mind Bo?” BL asked, Bo was acting strange plus he seemed to be at a loss for words. "Do you think we could skip the Boar's Nest tonight? Maybe go for a drive up by the lake for a while?" Bo asked as the post office door opened for Mrs. Smith. “Sure, I can even let Ellen Sue close up for me, if I need to,” BL said, turning to Mrs. Smith before Bo could say anything. She wanted to get rid of the busy body as quickly as possible, so that the conversation with Bo wouldn’t become the latest gossip. “Hello Mrs. Smith What can I do for you this lovely morning? BL asked with a smile. “Morning Mrs. Smith ma’am,” Bo said politely, remembering his manners. “Good morning. Is my mail ready?” Mrs. Smith asked, seeing that BL was still in the process of sorting the mail. “Yes ma’am, here you go,” BL handed over Mrs. Smith’s mail and waved goodbye as she left. Bo suddenly felt better as he climbed in the General Lee heading for the farm. A bit later he glanced in his rear view mirror when a case of deja vu hit him as the image from his dream flashed before his eyes. It had been a slow day at the Post Office, giving BL plenty of time to think about Bo’s questions this morning and what he wanted to talk about at the lake. Ellen Sue was sick and had called midmorning to say she wouldn’t be in for her afternoon shift. “C’mon Sadie we gotta meet Bo at the lake,” BL headed out for Sunset lake once Sadie loaded up in the GTO. BL picked up and keyed the CB mic“Sweet Talker to Lost Sheep 2, you got your ears on? I’m headed toward the rendezvous spot, what’s your 20?” BL was vague about giving details over the air figuring Rosco was listening but he was going to have to look high and low to find them, if he had ideas of giving bogus tickets or false arrest. Luke, Scrapie and Dixie had all left pretty much together, but with Luke heading to Base Camp and Dixie toward Tri-Counties jail. When Dixie got to work, it was no surprise that the daily count was up. It happened over most weekends, but payday weekends were known to be worse. Dixie had poured a cup of coffee and began looking at the paperwork from the weekend when she couldn't help notice a particular name....Ernie Leadbetter. She couldn't help but both dread him being there and finding just a bit of humor in it. Luke and Scrapie arrived a couple minutes early. Today would be a day of routine training while adding Scrapie into the routine. Bo was just about to tell BL he was leaving the farm when he saw Rosco jump in behind General Lee as Bo passed Rosco’s favorite speed trap “dangit Rosco!,” Bo said to the empty car. “Alright Bo Duke, pull over so I can give you a ticket,” Rosco said in his CB mic. “No way Rosco, I wasn’t speeding,” Bo replied, pressing the gas pedal to the floor. “Hot pursuit, I love it, I love it. Buckle up for safety Flash,” Rosco said to his basset hound in the passenger seat. “Lost Sheep 2 to Sweet Talker, I’m headed that way too but I picked up 1 Rosco P. Coltrane, be there soon as I shake him,” Bo said. “10-4,” BL replied. Going down to the water, skipping rocks while waiting for Bo. Bo in the meantime was trying to outrun Rosco. Part of the training with Scrapie was for him to find a 'victim', which meant various team members took turns being the victim. Luke went out in the nearby wooded area, waded a small stream, stepped from rock to rock and did everything he could to make his tracks and smell hidden. When Scrapie was given Luke's jacket to smell, he took off in a flash, pulling and tugging on his leash. He took Casey over logs, rocks, in and out of the stream, up and down the creek bank. His ears were flipped back his nose on the ground, up in the air to catch the wind, back to the ground, then up stream on the creek bank to a large fallen log, over the log and onto Luke's back, up his torso. Scrapie then promptly began licking Luke's face while still standing on his back. Casey hit the stop watch, "Good job, Scrapie!" She praised. "Good boy! ... Here's your treat...." Scrapie kept licking Luke, who was trying to get up, with a face full of dog tongue. Finally able to sit up, Luke picked up the miniature dog, "Good boy, see, I'm alright." Luke said while Scrapie was still licking his neck, face and ears. "Come on boy. Let me up. You did good. You 'saved' me." The more Luke praised him, the harder Scrapie's tail wagged and the more he licked. Luke finally got Scrapie in a position where he could stand up, then tried to put him down. Scrapie was not having it. Luke ended up taking the leash from Casey and carrying Scrapie back to the others. At the garage Cooter was pounding out the dents in Cletus’s patrol car as Bo flew by in the General Lee with Rosco right behind him. Cooter looked up, grinned and went back to work. Bo led Rosco out of town on Mill Road, back shifted and sped up for a clean getaway when his right front tire blew, sending the General into a hard spin to the left. Bo gripped the wheel tighter, attempting to get the General back under control. He slid to a stop just after passing under a low hanging branch that just happened to break the CB antenna clean into. Bo slapped the steering wheel as he cut the car off and slid out the window. He was greeted by the familiar voice of none other than Rosco, who was having a much better day than he was. "Freeze, just freeze, freeze it right there." Rosco said. Bo didn't stop until his feet were on the ground. "Just get against the car. You are under arrest." Rosco said. Bo looked at him confused. "For not speeding or getting a flat and nearly getting killed?" Bo asked. Rosco was pulling his cuffs out, but Bo was so surprised at Rosco's reply that he never saw them until Rosco had him cuffed, "For resisting arrest!" Rosco giggled, "Now, I just got to search you for weapons." Bo replied as Rosco started patting him down, "I ain't got no weapons and you know it." Rosco felt a bulge in Bo's left front pocket, "No weapons? Then what is this?" Swearing to himself, Bo replied, "It's not any weapon. Rosco, don't open that!" Rosco had already retrieved the small box from Bo's pocket. "Rosco! Don't! Don't open that or you're gonna spoil everything!" "Tiddly tuddly! Spoil what? Your hiding weapons, or drugs, or, or, ....'" Rosco opened the box, "Or a ring! A ring!! Now, I got you, you have been gotten! You are under arrest for resisting arrest and grand theft ring!!!" Later, back in Hazzard, Rosco pulled up in front of the Courthouse towing the General with a chain behind him. When he stopped the unattended General Lee bumped the patrol car. Rosco unhooked the chain connecting the cars, tossing it in his trunk. “Jjit, your car done scuffed my patrol car! Get on out of there,” Rosco said, opening the back door of his patrol car. Cooter looked over at the courthouse and saw Rosco towing the General Lee, “Well now this can’t be good,” Cooter said, reaching for the CB in the car he was working on. Bo was only allowed one phone call and naturally he’d call Uncle Jesse but he had a meeting at the lake he’d be very late for, that is if he didn’t miss it altogether. BL had brought the mail on her way to lunch and said she and Bo were meeting up to talk instead of meeting up with the others at the Boar’s Nest like usual. “I might be crazy but I ain’t dumb, Crazy Cooter looking for Sweet Talker. BL you got your ears on?” Cooter waited a minute or two then tried again. “BL wasn’t hearing her cousin though because she’d decided to take a stroll along the bank, sure that Bo would show up any minute. Bo was taken downstairs to the booking area, uncuffed after Rosco had locked the gate at the bottom of the stairs. It took at least 10 giggles and a dozen "I have got you nows." to get Bo booked. "Can I use the phone now?" Bo asked, even though he was in no hurry to talk to Uncle Jesse, he knew he had to call soon or he'd be eating breakfast here. “Yes but make it quick, it’s nearly time for my supper break”, Rosco said. Bo picked up the receiver asking the operator, “Maybelle, will you get me the Duke farm.” Maybelle put the call through. Jesse was outside but had set the phone in the open window so he’d hear if it rang. “Duke farm, this is Jesse.” Bo asked, "Uncle Jesse, ... can you come down here to the Courthouse pretty quick?" “I’ll be right down…should I be bringing bail money with me?” Jesse asked even though he figured he knew the answer already. Bo sighed, "Yes, Sir. Maybe more than usual." Bo was glad Uncle Jesse hadn’t asked why he needed to come to the jail, he knew Maybelle had likely been listening and would have ruined all his plans. “I’m on my way,” Jesse hung up the phone, went inside to get all the bail money that was kept in the cookie jar, going back out to his pickup, heading for town all the while wondering what frameup Boss Hogg and Rosco had going this time. After several attempts to call BL on the CB, Cooter had given up but now decided to try one more time. “This here’s Crazy C looking for my sweet talking cousin. You out there BL?” “Right here Cooter what’s up?” BL propped one hip against her car door as she and Cooter talked. “I don’t rightly know what’s going on but Bo’s likely gonna be awhile if he gets to ya’lls meeting at all…..Rosco arrested him, I seen the General chained to the patrol car,” Cooter replied. “Much obliged for the info cousin,” BL said, not real sure what to do now…should she wait at the lake a bit longer, go home or go back to town to the garage. Jesse barreled down the stairs to the jail, "Alright Rosco. What in tarnation is going on and why is my boy locked up." Rosco gave Jesse a smug look, "Well, now Jesse, I'll tell ya. He's done, done it this time." Rosco giggled, telling Jesse nothing. Then said, "He was speeding, then ran from me, and when I searched him I found this." Rosco said as pleased as punch as he opened the ring box containing a ring that Jesse knew very well. "I got him on Grand Theft Ring!” “He didn’t steal no ring! That there ring belonged to his Mama,” Jesse said, he didn’t know exactly why Bo had the ring on him but that didn't matter at the moment. Bo piped up, "I've been trying to tell him that Uncle Jesse! He's gonna mess everything up!" Rosco said, "Just hush! His Mama's ring! Well, what in tarnation is he doing with that out speeding around in the General Lee." "I weren't speeding Rosco!" Bo said. BL had had enough waiting after another 10 minutes and decided to see for herself, what exactly was going on, “c’mon Sadie we’re going back to town,” BL let Sadie in the car then got behind the steering wheel, headed for town. In town Bo pinched the bridge of his nose, he didn’t know if Rosco was just being more ornery than usual or if he really was stupid. “Rosco, what does a man usually do with a diamond ring?” Bo asked more than a little exasperated. “He uh…” Rosco hesitated, unknown to any of the men, BL was coming down the stairs when Bo lost all patience blurting. “He proposes! Which I’d likely be doing right about now if you hadn’t arrested me.” BL came through the gate at the bottom of the stairs, Rosco had forgot to close and lock just as Bo spoke, looking up blue eyes met brown, ”See I told you Uncle, he was gonna mess everything up,” Bo looked like he’d been punched in the gut. "Pro,....pose?" Roscoe stammered, then regrouped, "Propose, my foot. Bo, you just lie! Bo Duke propose!! That's a good one!" While Rosco ranted, Jesse read Bo and saw the truth in his nephew, which soon turned to pain. Jesse turned to see BL coming through the opened gate. BL smiled, happy didn’t describe accurately how she was feeling. The talk she told Dixie she was going to have with Bo wasn’t necessary. Ignoring the line on the floor marking how close visitors were allowed to get to the cells. Which had never really worked anyway, BL reached through the bars taking Bo by the hand, what she wanted to do was kiss Bo but that was going to be hard with bars between them. “The answer is yes, I’ll marry you,” BL said. Jesse Duke had long thought that his boys would never get married, was in awe of the moment. He had actually seen Bo propose, well sort of. " Alright, Rosco, that there ring ain't stolen, now let my boy out of there." Rosco dug his heels in, "He was speeding and resisted arrest! I even had to change the tire on the General Lee to drag it back here and it hit my vehicle!" Bo had tuned both Rosco and Jesse out at the moment, "You will?" BL nodded, 'yes'. Jesse was adamant, "Rosco, you let that boy out so he can propose and give BL her ring without it being through bars!" Lulu Hogg was coming down the stairs looking for Rosco when she caught Jesse's rant..... “Propose? Rosco you let that boy out immediately, or I will!” Lulu threatened. “But Lulu, he….” Rosco started but was cut off by his older sister. “But nothing, unlock that door,”Lulu said. Rosco saw Lulu and Jesse both giving him the same look, "Ah, shoot!" He took the keys and unlocked the cell door. Bo stepped out and took the ring box from Rosco saying, “I believe this is mine.” He then hugged BL, lifting her off the floor saying,“I’m sorry Darlin’ this ain’t how I’d planned to propose.” “You can have a do-over if you want, we’ll go to the lake and you can do it just like you planned,” BL replied. Bo pulled BL closer to him with a rebel yell he then said, "Alright, but we ain't going to the lake." Bo hoped to throw Rosco off in case he had plans of wanting to follow them. “Ok,” BL replied. She didn’t know if Bo was pulling a fast one on Rosco or if he had a new plan, either way she was going along with it. “Congratulations you two,” Lulu said. “Thanks Miss Lulu,” they said together. Hand in hand they went upstairs and out of the court house, “I’m going to drop my car off in front of the house, so I don’t block Dixie or Luke from the driveway and change into something cooler, how about getting us a couple to-go plates from the Busy Bee or Dixie diner and we’ll have a picnic,” BL suggested. Bo liked that idea. It could fit right into what he had originally planned. "Ok, I'll grab us something, then while you are changing, I'm gonna check that tire. I don't exactly trust Rosco as my pit crew." “Hey Bo your CB antenna is gone,” BL said, letting go of Bo’s hand, heading toward her own car, where Sadie waited. BL had put the top up for shade, not knowing at the time, how long she’d be inside and there was no shade around. "Dang it!" Bo said, "I'll stop by the garage on my way around town and grab another one." Bo hurried off toward the garage and supper, while BL and Sadie headed to Dixie's where BL had left some clothes for days like this. Gloria Kravitz heard BL’s motor before the GTO convertible parked in front of the house, she stayed in her chair, the young lady was likely picking up something she’d left, nothing terribly interesting to concern herself with. "Sadie, what should I wear girl?" BL was torn between shorts or a sundress. Sadie yapped a couple times, giving an ‘answer’. “Shorts it is,” BL shucked off her jeans and put on a pair of hemmed denim shorts that were only slightly longer than Daisy’s. Bo had managed to catch the garage with only Luther there. He noticed the wrecker gone and figured Cooter had it. He got the new antenna, headed for the diner where the dinner special was fried chicken. He took their orders and headed around town to Dixie's where he checked Rosco's tire change. Surprisingly enough, Rosco had managed to do a right proper job. When Gloria heard the sound of General Lee’s powerful engine getting closer then stopping on the other side of the driveway on the street she got up from her chair. Going out to her sweetshrub bush to see and hear what the young folk were upto. “We ready?” BL asked, coming out of the house, Sadie bouncing around her, full of energy after being cooped up in the post office all day . Waiting for Bo, BL had fed Sadie, so she wouldn’t get hungry if Bo and BL stayed out a few hours. At Tri Counties, Dixie had been working the Control room. It was time for the arrestees that had not had a bond set to see the judge whose office was just down the hill and across the road. Dixie was glad that the officer transporting the inmates down was an old seasoned no nonsense officer. As she handed him the cuffs, key, and legions to him, Dixie said, "Pat this one is bad news. He is slipperier than a snake and twice as mean." Pat nodded his thanks, "Then give me a belt too." Dixie gave Pat a look of approval and passed him a long leather belt with a D ring in front for the handcuffs to go through after the belt was fastened in the back. Ernie was brought around to the booking area to be readied for transport. When he saw the belt and legions he began running his mouth. Pat explained the only way he was going down to see the judge was wearing the jewelry. Ernie was not happy but complied. A bit later, Pat returned with an even more unhappy Ernie after he learned the cost of his bond for last night's mischief. Then he got a glimpse of Dixie. He recognized her but couldn't remember from where but he was sure it would come to him. At the lake Bo parked General Lee sliding across the hood, reaching in the floorboard he got the sack with the food, sitting it on the car roof. “Oh boy Sadie girl, you been eating too many dog biscuits,” Bo sat Sadie on the ground then he helped BL out, giving her a kiss as he set her back on her feet. Grabbing the picnic blanket from the backseat, he got the bag of takeout and took BL’s hand, leading her to the shade of a big oak tree. Spreading out the blanket he sat the bag of food down. “Before we eat, there’s something I want to do first,” Bo said, getting down on one knee, taking the ring box out o hisf shirt pocket. Opening the box, a small diamond in a ring was nestled inside continuing Bo asked, “BL will you be my one and only for the rest of my life?” BL nodded ‘yes’,”yes”. Bo put the diamond on BL's left ring finger. It looked so much better on her hand than it had just sitting in the ring box. Luke's team was finishing up for the day and everyone was heading for the vehicles. Scrapie was right on Luke's heels just like he had been all day unless told to work with the others. Luke opened the truck door and before he could do anything else, Scrapie had jumped into the truck and onto the seat waiting on Luke to get in. Luke laughed at the little pup, "Are you ready to go?" Scrapie let out a woof and frantically wagged his tail. Bo took BL in his arms for a long, slow kiss. BL wrapped her arms around Bo’s neck, both lost in the moment until Sadie ran over carrying on, BL stopped kissing Bo long enough to look at the dog sitting beside them. She had stopped carrying on when the kissing stopped but she was still whining. “You’re just going to have to get used to sharing,” Bo told Sadie. “We better eat before the food gets any colder,” BL said. “Yeah, guess so.” Bo replied, he had other activities on his mind. Bo dropped his arm, releasing BL, Sadie hushed her whining making BL giggle. Bo sat down on the blanket getting one of the foam takeout plates and the can of orange soda, he set the other foam takeout plate and a can of 7up out for his new fiance. Dixie had hoped to get off work before Ernie figured out who she was. Unfortunately, someone called her over the radio by "Duke" and Ernie was close enough to hear. That one word was all it took to figure out who she was. Luckily, shift change happened before Ernie could stir up too much trouble. Casey looked at Scrapie, "I thought you were my partner." Scrapie never moved from Luke's side. Luke replied, "I think he's your work partner, but I promised to take him out to the farm soon." Luke lowered his voice, "There might be a rat in the barn for him to find." Scrapie woofed. Luke said, "We're going, be patient. I'll see you all tomorrow. " He headed the truck toward Hazzard. Dixie didn't take the time to change, so she'd run into town and change before meeting the others. At the house, she saw BL's car out front. "BL. BL?" Dixie called from the living room. Nothing. Dixie went in the kitchen to see Sadie's bowl with water and a few leftover crumbs. Upstairs, she saw BLs door was open, jeans and top on the bed, a sundress across a chair, but no BL. 'Oh, well.' Dixie thought to herself as she went in her own room and pulled out a top and jeans. She changed in a hurry and noticed the dryer must have been on high as she noticed her jeans just a bit tighter than usual. Dixie was in the car and headed to the Boar's Nest in no time. At the lake BL looked thoughtful for a minute then looked at Bo saying ”you know Daisy’s going to plan the biggest wedding, Hazzard has ever seen cos she didn’t get to plan Luke’s.” Bo sighed already dreading his cousin’s countless lists of things to be done or things she needs. “Maybe the less time she has to plan and get it together, the less she can go over the top.” Bo continued, “how do you feel about a short engagement?” ”How short?” BL asked, Clyde and lots of others would think she was already pregnant if they eloped like their cousins had done. “Labor day weekend too soon?” Bo asked. ‘BL shook her head ‘no“No that’s about 2-3 weeks away, I can have my wedding dress and the bridesmaid dresses can be bought already made,” BL replied. Bo let a rebel yell fly as he picked BL up and spun her around, which caused Sadie to bark at him. Dixie laughed as she went to pull into the Boar's Nest. She saw Luke coming from the other direction. They pulled in side by side. Dixie was out of the car and at Luke's door when she saw he was slipping Scrapie's vest on. "Did my fellas have a good day?" Luke replied as he sat Scrapie on the ground, "Better now." "I agree. Guess who showed themself in Placid last night and is currently a very unhappy guest at my place of work?" Dixie said chipperly. For half a second, Luke was concerned but saw Dixie's light mood. "Well, judging from your mood, it's not Jeb." Dixie gave a half grin, "No, not Jeb. Ernie." Luke laughed, "Really? Well, good. What did he do?" Because Ernie being in jail and his charges were all public record, Dixie wasn't telling anything she shouldn't as she ticked his several charges off. Luke replied, "Well, the best part of all that is that I wasn't anywhere around." "Right." Dixie said. BL laughed as Bo spun her around, then got serious, “Bo how soon do you want to start a family?” BL asked. Continuing before Bo could answer “I am still going with Dixie to the Dr. when she goes. I was going to get on birth control for extra protection from anymore scares like the one we just had, but I won’t now we're getting married if you want to start a family right away,” BL said. Inside the Boar's Nest, Luke asked, "What are you drinking?" "A Pepsi, and I'll be right back." Dixie said, heading toward the restroom. She had just gone in town but had to go again. Bo didn’t really know how to answer so was just honest “I wasn’t planning to start a family or not start one, if it happens, it happens and if it don’t, it just don’t,” “Ok works for me, I feel kinda the same,” BL replied. Bo was still being haunted by his earlier dream which spooked him a lot more than he wanted to admit to BL, but he did want to explore and totally enjoy all the perks that came along with marriage. Dixie found Luke and Scrapie settled at a table with drinks already there. Luke was talking to Cooter as she sat down and sipped on her cold Pepsi. It was good and cold and tasted great since she hadn't really had time to drink much at work today. Daisy wondered where Bo and BL were, they weren’t usually this late in fact they were usually the first to arrive after work. Taking a tray of drinks over to the two nearby tables she stopped and asked. ”Anybody know why Bo and BL ain’t here yet?” Dixie and Luke shook their heads ‘no’, Dixie said, “BL’s car was in front of the house when I ran home to change before coming here. Her bedroom door was open and there was a pair of jeans and a shirt on the bed and a sundress on the chair. There was a bowl of water and crumbs in the kitchen, where she fed Sadie no doubt.” “I saw Rosco towing General Lee earlier and he marched ole Bo off to the hoosegow,” Cooter said. Luke sat up putting all four legs of his chair back on the ground as he said. "What? Why?? And you're just now mentioning it?" "Didn't see no point. Uncle Mr. Jesse done come sprung him. General Lee was gone by the time that I got Cletus out of the ditch." Dixie shook her head at the two while patting Scrapie's head. Jesse decided to get a beer while he was still in town, he’d run a few errands after Bo was out of jail thanks to Lulu Hogg. Parking beside Daisy’s roadrunner, Jesse went inside, not knowing he was walking into a discussion he might not want to be a part of, he went over to the ‘kids’ table, “hey, how was ya’lls day?” ”Bo didn’t say nothin’ to me about him and BL having plans. Did she say something to you Dixie?” Luke asked. Dixie shrugged her shoulders, "No. Not to me." Jesse tried to change the subject, "Well, now I wouldn't worry about it." Dixie felt the sudden urge of needing to pee again, she’d just gone 10 minutes ago. Getting to her feet a mite too fast made her ‘swimmy headed’, making the room spin. Luther and Clyde had just walked up, each grabbing an arm and easing Dixie back into her chair. “Dixie are you alright? You look kind of peaked.” Luther said, as Daisy brought over a damp towel, giving it to Luke, who wiped Dixie’s face. Everyone was so concerned about Dixie, all thoughts of Bo and BL’s absence was forgotten. BALLADEER: Or atleast put on the back burner for now. Dixie took the cool cloth, "I just got up too fast. Must be the heat. I’m just a bit swimmy headed." Dixie replied. “I think it’s time me and you slide on outta here, get you somewhere cooler. Hey Cooter, you mind towing Dixie’s car home?” Luke said. “Consider it done, Lucas Dukas,” Cooter replied. Dixie opened her mouth to say she could drive home, it wasn’t far but one look at Luke, Luther and Cooter told her she’d be wasting her breath. Luke saw the look, "The air conditioner in my truck is better. Come on, Scrapie." He stood up, finished his beer as they headed for the door in one motion, "Take your time with the car Cooter." Luke called behind him. In the truck, Dixie said, "I'm fine. I could have driven home." Luke didn’t say anything he didn’t want to fight so he just cranked the truck And drove home. It was hot out at the lake too, Bo being Bo didn’t always learn from his previous mistakes, looked at BL in her short shorts that fit just a tad too tight to be decent and suggested without too much thought, “Let’s go for a swim”. “A swim? You do remember that’s what nearly got us in trouble already,” BL said. “We’re gonna get married next month, so noone will know if you’re expecting,” Bo replied. “Oh that makes it sound like a much better idea,” BL said but her hands were already removing clothes. Bo’s blood was nearly at a boil, watching BL undress. An image of the General’s backseat holding 3 carseats flashed in his mind, it was like a bucket of ice water had been dumped on him. Gloria saw Luke's truck pull in with both him and Dixie getting out. "Abner, Abner, that Duke boy pulled in with his wife, but they don't have her car. Just his truck and a dog. Another dog over there. I hope it doesn't ruin my flowers." Luke opened Dixie's door while letting Scrapie down in the front yard. Since protesting that she could have driven home, Dixie had been quieter than normal. "Come on, you ain't mad at me about riding home in good air conditioning, are you?" Luke asked. Dixie shook her head, 'no'. "No, I'm not mad. It's just I feel 'funny'. It feels like a burning deep down, like low in my throat." The feeling of ice water being dumped on him quickly passed when Bo got a good look at all 5’4” of the cute little blonde that was going in the water. Bo’s brain didn’t have to tell his legs to follow, Bo put his arms around BL from behind and started nuzzling and kissing the side of her neck “I can hardly wait to make you my wife next month,” Bo murmured against BL’s warmskin. “Me either,” BL turned to face Bo. It wasn’t long before kissing had turned into a heavy petting session and was becoming more rapid, until the image of those carseats in General Lee’s backseat flashed in Bo’s head leaving Bo with a ‘limp noodle’. “DA’ IT,” Bo fumed. “Bo, what’s wrong?” BL asked. Bo replied, "Nothing, Darlin." They went out deeper in the water, and the heavy petting continued. Bo was all in, except for one very important part of him that refused to join in on his planned activities. It might have been the cold water, maybe the image from Bo's dream, or maybe both, but the fact remained that in the water there was no way Bo was gonna be able to please BL or himself. When it was clear things weren’t going to cooperate, Bo scooped BL up in his arms, heading for dry land and he hoped for a lot more action. Laying BL in the soft grass, Bo was doing everything he could to please his fiance but nothing was working, he was broken atleast that part of him was, panic crept up his body as Bo thought about his wedding night. Luke had gotten Scrapie settled and was currently working to try to figure out Dixie's ailment when he heard Cooter out front. "I'm gonna go help Cooter get unloaded." Dixie replied, "Ok." She was not sure what was going on or what would fix it." Luke left Scrapie inside while he went outside. Frustrated that nothing was going as planned this afternoon, well after a hiccup because of Rosco, the asking BL to marry him, had gone perfect. It was now that there was a problem, that both frustrated and worried Bo. “I’m sorry Darlin, I don’t know what’s wrong,” Bo said. “It’s not your fault, maybe we should head back,” BL replied, adding ”it’s been a wonderful afternoon. Getting dressed and gathering the blanket and trash from their picnic and calling Sadie, the newly engaged couple headed back to town. "Lost Sheep 2 to Lost Sheep 1." Bo called on the CB. Cooter heard the call as he pulled up to Dixie and Luke's, in town. A second call rang out. Cooter frowned, but picked up the CB mic, "Lost Sheep 2, this is Crazy C. I'm at Lost Sheep 1's. Give me a minute to get him on the air." Cooter said as he saw Luke coming out the front door. “Luke, Bo’s hollerin’ at you on the CB,” Cooter said, holding out the mic. “Thanks Cooter,” Luke replied as he took the mic, keying the mic continuing, “It’s Luke, what’s up Bo?””Luke we need to talk, like NOW,” Bo replied, like it was a do or die situation. Cooter was trying to look busy as he listened to Bo near hysterics. Luke replied, "We're at the house. Come on by." Luke gave Cooter a 'I have no idea' look. "I guess we'll know when he gets here. Cooter went back to letting Dixie's car down into the road behind BL's car. Bo looked over at BL saying “hang on tight.’ BL still didn’t really understand what was wrong to put Bo in such a tizzy but she sat Sadie on her lap, putting both arms around the dog as Bo threw the stock car in gear, taking off cross country. ‘Bo what is the matter?” BL asked again as they bounced along toward town. Bo replied as he turned into Hazzard Square, "I just need to talk to Luke a minute." He said as he slid to a stop in front of BL's car. Gloria had tried not to look like she noticed or even cared what was going on with the young people but when Bo slid to a sudden stop she made no attempt to hide her curiosity. The street was lined with vehicles, one of which was the wrecker blocking her driveway. ”Abner there’s something going on over there, that blonde Duke boy just slid, that orange eyesore he calls a car, in the space on the street behind that girl that works at the post office’s car and the wrecker’s blocking our driveway,” Gloria said, craning her neck from her own porch. Bo climbed out of General Lee, heading straight for the wrecker where Luke and Cooter were. “I’m ok Bo, you go ahead,” BL muttered, not really mad though, she was perfectly capable of getting out of General Lee on her own, it was just strange that Bo didn’t help her. Grabbing the take out things to put in the trash, BL got Sadie, ”Sadie girl, let's go ask Dixie what’s going on out here,” going in the house BL asked “what’s Cooter doing?” Dixie was sitting on the couch with Scrapie with several partially drunk glasses in front of her. She was currently trying to drink some apple juice. The iced tea and soda had not helped the burning in the bottom of her throat. In fact, they seemed to make her feel worse. "Unloading my car, I figure." “Why would he be unloading your car? Did you break down?” BL asked, letting Scrappie sniff her hand before she tried to touch him, because he still wasn’t used to her yet. "No, I didn't break down. I just got a little dizzy at the Boar's Nest from the heat, I guess, and so I was banned from driving." Dixie said as she rubbed her lower neck / upper chest area and took another drink of the cold juice. The action didn’t go unnoticed and BL thought something must be really wrong “you sure you’re ok?” BL was concerned then asked grinning "what’s with so many glasses, you got Luke on KP duty and making sure he has plenty to do?” Dixie gave BL a look, then said, "No, Luke doesn't have KP duty. It's just that for the last little bit, I've got this burning in my throat. It's like right here." She again rubbed the area, "I've been trying to drink something cold. It feels good going down but then seems to make the burning worse. I have no idea why. So, where have you and Bo been?" BL didn’t have anymore questions, any advice she might have no matter how unhelpful all was forgotten as she held out her left hand, her ring finger now adorned with a small but decent sized solitaire diamond ring, “Out at the Sunset lake, Bo proposed,” BL said with a big smile. Dixie was now up and off the couch, "BO? Bo Duke? Actually proposed? Oh my Gosh! Are you sure he's not sick or something?" Dixie kidded, "That's great! Oh, just wait til Hazzard hears this!" “Oh, I figure Hazzard will hear, just as soon as Daisy finds out,” BL said. The three men outside, heard Dixie’s raised voice of excitement but couldn’t make out the words. “What in the world,” Luke said, walking toward the house at a fast clip and Cooter was right on his heels. “BL probably told her, I proposed,” Bo replied nonchalantly just as Luke yanked open the door, setting Scrappie barking, in turn setting Sadie off. Luke stopped in his tracks turning around, nearly getting mowed down by Cooter. "Told her, you did what?" Luke said, "Bo I don't think I heard you right." “You did, I said I proposed,” Bo replied. Luke started with a handshake, which quickly turned into a hug, "Well, congratulations!" Cooter wasn't far behind with his own handshake and back slap, "Wow, now that is news!" Dixie and BL were both now trying to settle Scrapie and Sadie down. "Abner, Abner! I think they are all in a fight or something over there. I heard the girls' voices, then all the men ran in the house! They are still blocking our driveway!" Gloria said to her husband, who was reading his paper. “Stay out of it, they’ll work it out themselves,” Abner said, he knew Gloria would call Rosco if he didn’t say something. After a round of back slaps the men came into the room, Bo sat on the loveseat beside BL and Sadie,putting his arm across the back. Cooter came over giving BL a hug. “Congratulations little cousin.” “Congratulations BL!” Luke said. “Thanks,” BL replied. Cooter declared, "This is call for a celebration." Dixie added, "Alright, there is tea, , and juice here." "That is not a problem!" Cooter said, extracting his garage key. "I'll be right back." He was up and out the door heading to the garage for the beer stash that was there. Once Cooter cleared the door, Bo gave Luke a look, "Let's take the dogs out while he’s gone." ”Alright,” Luke said, now he could find out why Bo had been in a panic when he and BL arrived. “Want to go out, Sadie?” Bo asked, Sadie jumped off the loveseat with a woof, in answer. "Come on Scrapie." Luke called. Scrapie left Dixie's side and headed outside. Luke looked at Bo, "Alright, what is wrong?" Bo said, "It's broke." "What's broke, Bo." Luke asked. Bo looked downward, "IT." Luke said, "Can you be a mite clearer?" Bo said, "We went out to Sunset lake and I proposed. We were going for a swim, you know skinny dipping and nothing. I thought maybe the water was too cold. We got out and nothing. Luke, I'm telling you it's broke." “Bo ‘it’ ain’t broke, there has to be an explanation,” Luke reassured. “How do you know it ain’t broke?” Bo retorted. “Did everything seem ok in that department at first?” Luke asked, figuring Bo was freaked out over nothing. ‘Well yeah but then I saw an image from my dream and all I had was a ‘limp noodle’,” Bo replied. ‘What dream?” Luke asked. Bo told him all about the dream then said “Luke we can’t have twins, I don’t know much about babies, especially a girl let alone 2!” Bo said, getting wound up again. “Calm down Bo, that there’s your problem. It’s all in your head, you’re getting so het up on a maybe that you can’t enjoy a sure thing, which is BL. Bo frowned, "Really?" Luke replied, "Really. Now, just calm down, that was just a dream. You know how dreams are, nothing to them." “Yeah you're right,” Bo said, relieved, trusting Luke’s words like he always had. "Good, now let's go have a beer, Cooter should be back soon." Luke said. "Alright! Come on Sadie." Bo called. Sadie ran by them with Scrapie on her tail as they ran in the house, through the kitchen and then made laps around Dixie and BL. Cooter came through the front door, a box of beer in both hands as Luke and Bo came in from the back. Luke said, "I didn't hear you pull back up." Cooter waved him off. "I left the wrecker at the garage. The curtains were moving when I went out." Bo began handing out the beer. When he handed Dixie one, she took it politely but had no intention of drinking it. Luke made a toast, "To the next Mr. and Mrs. Duke." Dixie went through the motions of taking a drink and then sat her beer on the coffee table with the rest of her undrunk glasses. A couple minutes later, Luke leaned up and put his empty bottle on the table and picked up Dixie's bottle. BL took a drink of her beer watching the two dogs making circles around the couch and coffee table then it was back through the kitchen and around the table. BL was also watching Dixie, something she had seen was teasing her brain, it had to do with the way Dixie had said her throat burned. “Dixie, can I see you in the kitchen?” BL asked, she didn’t want to say anything Dixie might not want the guys to hear. “I think I know what’s wrong with you, I remember seeing something awhile ago about pregnancy and heartburn. Have you got any tums or rolaids? I can run to Rhuebottom’s if not,” BL said. "No, I've never had heartburn, so I have no idea if that's what it is, but I'm willing to try it." Dixie said. "If you're gonna go to Rheubottom’s, grab something quick for supper. Luke hasn't eaten. Cooter probably hasn't either." Dixie reached for her wallet, handing BL some cash. “Ok, Bo and me had a picnic at the lake but by the time it’s ready he’ll probably be ready to eat again, I’ll get you something light, can’t skip meals now you’re eating for 2. Be back in a jiffy,” BL said. “You fellas need anything, I got to run to Rheubottom’s,” BL asked as she headed out. BL was met with a chorus, "More beer." "Why did I ask?" BL said as she left for the store. Figuring the fellas would be more worried about drinking than eating, she decided to get sandwich and snack foods. That way, they could all eat when they had a mind to. Once back to Dixie’s, she gave her a roll of tums and Roland's. Dixie read the labels of both and chose one while they put out the sandwich and snacks. A bit later, Dixie said, "I think that worked. I just may live." “Good,” BL replied. Everybody enjoyed the evening drinking a few beers and hanging out, as usual Cooter had switched from beer to a nonalcoholic beverage after a couple beers. Around midnight BL yawned, “ya’ll mind if I crash here tonight? I’m liable to fall asleep before I get home,” BL asked, her jaw cracking with another yawn. “Of course not, it’s still your house, we’re just borrowing it,” Dixie replied. “Mind if I stay too? I don’t think I should drive, those weren’t watered down Boar’s Nest beer and I had more than I should and drive,” Bo said, already thinking about testing Luke’s theory it had all been in his head and ‘it’ wasn’t really broken. “Sure Bo you're always welcome you know that,” Luke replied. “Hey Luke Dixie, ya’ll got room for one more?” Cooter asked, then continued “I got the wrecker tonight, figured since I was already in town, I’d let Dad get a full night’s rest without the phone ringing and disturbing him. The couch has to be better than sleeping at the garage”, Cooter had only asked because he wanted to keep his eye on Bo, he knew Bo and wanted to make sure he didn’t try to get the benefits of marriage before the wedding night. Luke looked over at Dixie to see what she said before he answered her brother, his best friend since they were kids. Dixie replied, "That's fine by me. There's pillows and such in the closet. Ya'll make yourselves at home, but I'm gonna head up." Dixie saw Luke put his feet on the floor, "It's still early yet if you want to stay down here awhile. I'm gonna rinse these glasses out first." Dixie said, picking up her three glasses. By the time Dixie had the glasses rinsed, Luke had his boots in his hand waiting on her, "It's not that early. Night ya'll." Bo looked a tad deflated, his plans for the night going out the window. Gloria looked out the window, still seeing BL’s car and General Lee parked on the street in front of the house. “Abner the blonde Duke boy and that girl that works at the post office is still there and I just saw all the lights go out, upstairs and down,” Gloria said. Bo hadn’t put his sleeping bag in General Lee before leaving the farm, so he made himself a pallet in the floor, while Cooter fixed up the couch. “Night ya’ll,” BL said, kissing Bo then following Dixie and Luke up the stairs, Sadie at her side. Scrapie was running in and out of Sadie's feet as he ran upstairs. Once in their room, Luke a, "Alright, spill it." Dixie looked confused as she slipped out of her jeans and top. Her boots had been long gone. She found her gown and slipped it on. "What are you talking about?" "First, the dizzy spell. Then, three glasses of something to drink which you might have drank one and now heading to bed this early. Not that I mind that at all. You are much better company." Luke raised his eyebrows and wrapped his arms around his wife. Dixie shrugged, "I just got dizzy for no reason earlier but since I've been fine. Then, I guess I had heartburn. That's why BL went to the store. The medicine seemed to help, but I didn't know what it was cause I'd never had it before." Dixie explained. Luke held her tighter, "Next time something is wrong, let me know, please." Dixie replied, "I will. I guess I'm just tired for no reason tonight." "Well, that I can fix." Luke turned to turn the bed down. Before the covers landed, Scrapie had gone from a low stool to the middle of the bed and under the covers. "Looks like you aren't the only one who's tired." Luke said. Dixie curled into Luke's arms. It wasn't even minutes before Luke heard Dixie's breathing change. He moved enough to turn out the light and lay there holding Dixie in one arm while petting Scrapie with the other.

Daylight found the Duke Farm preparing for its company's departure. After helping with the chores and another hearty breakfast, Luke’s team packed up their gear and loaded it. Coy, Vance and Jeb all making plans to see Lisa, Casey and Debbie again soon. “I’ll see ya’ll tomorrow morning,” Luke said to his team as they prepared to leave, all of them congratulating him and Dixie again, “I’ll see you at work tomorrow Dixie. Congratulations again both of you, it was a great weekend.” Debbie said, smiling thinking of Jeb. After all the out of town company left, the rest began getting ready for church. “Hey girls, do ya’ll need something to wear this morning?” Daisy asked. “I’ll just wear the same skirt and blouse I wore Friday to the reception,” BL said. Dixie replied, "Do you have anything to go with my skirt that is a little less revealing? I had meant to go by the house for something, but I can make it work." Daisy thought for a minute, "I have just the blouse." Dixie took her word for it, "Great." Once everyone was ready, they headed off to town and the church. Jesse made it a habit, as did most folks in Hazzard of getting to church early. No sooner had Luke parked the truck than he and Dixie were converged on by several of the town's folk who would have not been caught dead in a bar. Congratulations and well wishing continued all the way up the church steps where Reverend Frawley greeted the congregation. On their way in Luke and Dixie were stopped by Reverend Frawley. “Congratulations to both of you, it's good to have you with us this morning”, Reverend Frawley greeted the couple. “Thanks Reverend,” Luke replied. “Good morning Jesse, you certainly have a crowd this morning," Frawley shook Jesse’s hand. “Good morning Reverend, that I do, I believe you know most of them but I’d like you to meet my brothers Elbert and John, their wives Bessie and Pauline and Elbert and Bessie’s boys Jeremiah and Jed,” Jesse introduced the small group behind him. “Welcome it's nice to meet you all, welcome,” Reverend Frawley replied. Halfway up the aisle was where the Dukes normally sat, today they took up two pews what with a new member in the family and visiting relatives. Much to the displeasure of the youngest Dukes, Bessie had made them sit with the elder Dukes, while the young adults plus one Davenport, sat on the second pew. Luke had taken a seat on the end with Dixie at his side and then Daisy and BL. Bo sat beside BL then Coy,Vance and Jeb. Behind the Duke cousins sat the Davenport boys. Jesse was pleased as punch to have two pews taken up by his family, the only other family there that came close to taking up that much space was the Halcomb family. Announcements were made, giving a list of events coming up, hosted by other churches and of Luke and Dixie’s recent marriage. The singing was especially good this beautiful sunny Sunday. Reverend Frawley began, "After hearing this week of Luke and Dixie's marriage, I have been moved to teach this morning about the five pillars of marriage. They are: Pillar 1: Love Pillar 2: Trust Pillar 3: Respect. Pillar 4.Faith Pillar 5: Understanding” Dixie and Luke felt the eyes of the entire congregation on them. As the sermon continued, Jed and Jeremiah became restless. Bessie had already given them the look. Pauline was just hoping that Jeb was getting something useful out of it. She could only hope that now that Luke was married that Jeb, Bo, Coy, Vance and maybe even Daisy would start taking relationships more seriously. “Pillar number 5 is understanding…” Reverend Frawly was saying when BL looked over, seeing 4 sets of jean clad legs stretched out to the pew in front of them. Pauline frowned when she glimpsed over her shoulder, 3 of her nephews and her son weren’t even paying attention, they were ASLEEP! Atleast Luke was taking the preacher’s words to heart she hoped. “...without these 5 things, NO marriage can survive,” Reverend Frawley boomed into the microphone, nearly causing the 4 sleeping Duke boys to jump out of their skins. Jeb opened his eyes a bit confused for a moment where he was until he saw his mother giving him a look. He forced himself to sit up a bit straighter and at least act like he was paying attention. By this time, Jesse's attention had been drawn to the kids behind him. In particular, to his younger nephews, who all were now trying to look really innocent. The young men all felt no older than their teenage cousins, trying not to squirm under the look that Jesse gave them, a look that promised a good talking to later. Reverend Frawley concluded his sermon then said, "Before I dismiss today I'd like to take just a minute to again congratulate the new Mr. and Mrs. Luke Duke and to also say what a joy it was to have so many Dukes here this morning. You all are welcome anytime. With that the services are concluded and we hope to see everyone back next week." As everyone stood up to head out, Luke and Dixie were again stopped by other well wishers which made the others exit much slower than normal. It was all Bo, Jeb, Coy and Vance could do to keep from yawning or stretching before they made it outside. Jesse introduced his brothers, sisters in law and two youngest nephews to a few people on the way to their vehicles, the rest of the Dukes that were visiting were leaving after lunch. Jesse saw Luther and Clyde Davenport standing by the wrecker talking and went over “Ya’ll come on over for lunch too, there’ll be plenty the kids will all be there,” Jesse said. Luther thought about it for a moment, then replied, "Ya, know, I think I will Jesse. It's been a long while since I've talked with John and even longer since I've seen Elbert." Clyde almost was not sure who this person who looked like his brother was but thought he might ought to go too. "Sounds good Jesse. I don't much like my own cookin' and BL has about deserted me." Jesse replied, "It will be good to have ya’ll. See ya out at the place." Luke was opening the truck door for Dixie when she asked, "What's Uncle Jesse doing?" Luke looked over to where Jesse was now walking off from the Davenports, "I'm not sure." Everyone headed out to the Duke farm, as Luke got out and went around to open Dixie’s truck door he saw Clyde’s truck followed by the wrecker turn up the driveway “I know what Uncle Jesse was doing as we were leaving the church. He was inviting Luther and Clyde to lunch,” Luke said. Dixie followed Luke's gaze, "Great, you know he's been a lot better than I could have ever expected, ..." Both Luke and Dixie said together, "But..." They were both wondering just how long Luther could and would maintain civilized behavior where their marriage was concerned. Their thoughts were interrupted by the others arrival. Daisy, Dixie and BL changed out of their church clothes and then went to help the Aunts finish lunch while the elder men sat on the front porch visiting and the younger men tinkered with General Lee. “Dixie, will you help me set the picnic tables?” BL asked. She wanted to ask Dixie a favor but she didn’t want Daisy or her Aunts to overhear. Dixie replied, "Sure." Out front, Luke stepped back from the General and over to a cooler filled with ice, soda, beer and several other beverages. He grabbed an ice cold beer and was about to open it when Luther spoke up from the porch. "Luke, before you open that, I have something for you." Luther said casually. Luke shut the cooler and stepped over to the porch beer in hand. Luther tossed a set of keys at him unexpectedly. Luke's quick reflexes helped him catch the keys. Luke glanced at the keys, the familiar keyring and keys. Luke knew them. He froze. Luther gave him only a look. Luke met his look. Both men nodded in silent agreement. "I work at 8 tomorrow." Luke said. "I'll head toward town about 7. You can park her at the garage if you think Ole Rosco can stay out of the ditches tonight." Luther said. Luke started to return the beer to the cooler. Luther said, "Drink the beer. I'm gonna be here a spell." Luke wasn't sure who the person was in his father in law's body, but if he continued to be that person, they could get along. He nodded and headed back to the General, but stopped at the picnic tables long enough to show Dixie the familiar set of keys that he had carried years ago to the wreckers, the garage along with the keys to both Luther's yard and the county impound lot. Dixie's eyes went wide at the sight of the keys. BL looked up about the time Luke showed Dixie the key ring, when he went back over to the General, BL asked “who is that man that says he’s your father?” “Funny, now what do you really want to ask?” Dixie said. When you get an appointment with the Tri-County jail Dr. see if you can get me one too, I’m gonna ask for birth control pills, I don’t want anymore weeks like last week. Atleast every third woman that came in the post office was pregnant or so it seemed. I’d have been a wreck if I hadn’t kept busy helping Daisy plan the reception,” BL replied. Dixie gave BL a look, "I needed that. But, yes I will." “Sorry, but thanks I didn’t want half the county knowing my business,” BL said. Dixie replied, "I can certainly relate." About then Bo decided it was a good idea to sneak up behind BL, grab her and goose her! BL squealed, startled by being suddenly grabbed “Eeep Bo!” “You’re just so darn cute, I couldn’t help myself,” Bo said, kissing the tip of BL’s nose, fully aware they were being watched by not just the other young people but Clyde and Jesse too. Jed and Jeremiah saw the interaction and promptly said, "Eww!" and "Yuck!" respectfully. "Lunch is ready, everybody get washed up ,” Daisy said, bringing out the baked ham. BL and Dixie took that as their cue to go help tote the rest of the food out. After lunch everyone cleaned up, Daisy had taken some of the 'to go' containers and as lunch was brought in she fixed a container of ham, each of the sides and some of each pie before putting the rest of the leftovers in the fridge. Pauline saw what she was doing but wondered why. "Daisy, why are you packing food into containers?" Daisy wished her aunt wasn't so observant at times like this, "I'm fixing Dixie and Luke something for later." Pauline looked surprised, "The girl does know how to cook, doesn't she?" "Yes, Aunt Pauline. Luke will be fine. It's just that they haven't really stocked the kitchen yet, and they both have to work tomorrow." Daisy said, knowing her aunts concern for Luke. Pauline frowned as she thought how a married couple hadn't stocked their kitchen yet. After Luke's first and only beer, he drank sweet iced tea. After the others headed home, it was time for Luke and Dixie to head into town. Luke got Dixie in his pick-up, and he followed her in the wrecker. Gloria Kravitz heard the wrecker but had to wipe her hands before moving the curtain aside to look, by this time though Luke and Dixie had gone inside leaving her imagination running wild, “Abner, that Davenport girl, the one married Luke Duke is home, Luke too I imagine but they ain’t alone. Cooter the mechanic’s boy is there too, I heard the wrecker. The other Davenport girl and Bo Duke and Jesse’s girl will probably be along,” Gloria was in a tizzy but Abner didn’t notice, he’d heard the vehicles and had put cotton in his ears before Gloria came in. Dixie put the leftovers in the fridge and came back in the living room to find Luke sitting on the couch with his boots off. She sat down by him. Pulled her feet up on the couch and snuggled into Luke's outstretched arm. Luke had already told a very confused Hazzard phone operator to route any wrecker calls to him tonight. Dixie rested her head on Luke's shoulder, "This is nice, what are Bo and BL doing tonight?" “I don’t rightly know but I betcha Bo’s doing everything he can to stay out of Uncle Jesse’s sight, after falling asleep in church this morning,” Luke replied. BL had told Daisy she’d help change sheets on hers and Bo’s beds so they’d have fresh ones to sleep on but the rest of the housework was going to have to wait until tomorrow because Sunday was the day of rest and no work was done but the necessary daily chores. With the sheets changed the girls figured Bo had finished up the few undone evening chores. Daisy took a fresh pot of coffee and four cups to the porch. Bo was just coming back from the barn as the coffee was being poured. He took a seat on the swing by BL as the four sat in silence for a few minutes, Bo finally spoke, “it seems so empty now.” “Yeah it does, we’ll have to think of a reason to have another weekend,” BL said. "What about a baby shower?” Daisy suggested innocently. Bo and BL got choked on their coffee hearing this, both was sure Daisy knew something. BL recovered fist saying “Daisy don’t you think that’s rushing things a mite? Today’s only been a week since they got married.” “I know, I just can’t wait to have a baby around,” Daisy replied. Bo shook his head, "I just mean without Luke here. Maybe we should see if they want to go to the Boar's Nest or maybe we should go by there awhile." Jesse looked over his coffee cup, "If ya'll are wanting any babies around, ya'll might want to give them some private time so as they have a chance to make them." “Guess you’re right Uncle Jesse,” Bo said, looking at BL from the corner of his eye, news of a baby on the way was sooner than Daisy or Uncle Jesse knew. “Yeah, guess so,”Daisy agreed. Bo looked at BL, "So what do you want to do tonight Darlin'?" “I don’t know but it can’t be another really late night, I gotta work tomorrow. I shouldn’t leave Sadie behind either, I’ve basically abandoned her all weekend,” BL replied, then having had an idea continued, “how about the drive-in movies?” Bo replied, "Yeah, we can do that. Right Sadie girl?" His answer was in the form of Sadie putting both her paws in his lap. “We better get going, if we want to catch the early show,” BL said standing, then pulling Bo to his feet. “Let’s hit it,” Bo replied, pulling BL close, his arm around her lower back. He might have let his hand wander lower but Uncle Jesse was on the porch watching. At General Lee, Bo helped BL in then picked Sadie up, handing her in the window to BL. “There ya go Sadie girl,” Bo said, getting in behind the wheel. Bo found a parking spot to his liking in the back row. He backed General Lee in, adjusted the sound on the speaker and started to move a bit closer to BL. Sadie took that moment to step in between the two. “I think someone’s jealous,” BL looked at Bo and grinned. Bo wasn’t amused, the farm had been crawling with people all weekend and Bo had been hoping for some cuddle time now that they were alone. BL picked Sadie up and scooted over so she now sat between the dog and Bo. Sadie lay down in the passenger seat, her head facing the door, in full pout mode. Bo and BL settled in as the movie started. In town, Luke noticed Dixie had gotten quiet. He looked down on his chest to find his sleeping wife using him as a pillow. Luke thought about waking her but instead wrapped his arms around her a bit tighter as he decided to just relax for a bit before waking Dixie. It was at that moment the phone rang. Luke reached for the phone, "Hello." "Luke? Cletus is hung up out on Route 11." The operator said. "Ok. I'm on my way?" Luke said, hanging the phone up. Dixie asked, "To where?" "Route 11. Cletus is hung up." Luke said getting his boots back on. "Need or want any help?" Dixie asked. = BL reached over, stroking Sadie’s hip since that was about all she could reach. BL laid her head on Bo’s shoulder, he tightened his arm around her as they watched the movie. “Want some popcorn darlin? Bo asked, when he got no answer he looked to the shoulder BL’s head rested on, seeing she was asleep he turned back toward the movie. Luke gave his wife a grin. "I got this, but if you want to go, I'm good with it." Dixie grabbed a jacket even though the night was warm, and they headed out. The Kravitz’s were almost asleep when Luke fired the souped up wrecker up to go get Cletus. Gloria looked at the clock, it read 11:15 she was never going to get another night of decent sleep as long as those girls lived next door. When the movie was over, it took Bo some time to get out onto the road. He could have gone cross country but he didn’t want to jostle and bounce BL and wake her up. He was enjoying having her cuddling close, so he headed for home at a nice slow but steady speed. One hand on the steering wheel, the other arm holding his girl tight. Luke pulled the wrecker on scene to find a frantic Cletus. Before the lights came on in the truck, Cletus was freaking out, "Cooter, great to see ya! Buzzards on a buzzsaw, Cousin Boss is gonna kill me!" The lights came on in the cab of the wrecker as Luke opened the door, "Cletus, just settle down." Luke said. "Wait, what are you doing with the Davenport's wrecker? You didn't steal it, did you?" Luke rolled his eyes, "Do you really think I'm gonna steal a wrecker just to come out and rescue you?" Bo’s attempt not to wake BL wasn’t going so well as he hit yet another pothole. BL felt like she was moving but hadn’t fully woken up until General Lee hit another pothole “what’s going on, where are we?” BL asked when it was clear they weren’t at the drive-in movie. “I’m sorry darlin, I didn’t mean to wake you, its these dang potholes. Movie’s over, we’re on route 7 headed home,” Bo replied. “The movie’s over and we’re headed home.” BL said more than asking for clarification. “I’m sorry Bo, I didn’t mean to fall asleep and miss the whole movie,” BL said. “No big deal darlin, holding you was better than the movie anyway,” Bo replied. Sadie had also woken up and reared up on the door then nudged BL’s arm turning to rear up on the door again."Bo can we stop a few minutes, Sadie needs to do her business?” BL asked “Sure sweetheart,” Bo pulled off onto an old moonshine trail then helped Sadie and BL both out, taking BL’s hand as they followed Sadie. Cletus thought about it a moment, then replied, "Well, I guess not." While Luke set to getting Cletus out of the ditch, Dixie got out of the truck. "Anything you need me to do?" Luke replied, "Just convince Cletus that I didn't steal the wrecker." After getting Cletus on his way, Luke and Dixie made their way back to town, parked the wrecker and made their way in the house. It was late by now, so they were both more than ready to head to Bo and BL got back on the road heading for the Duke farm so BL could get her car and go home. Bo helped Sadie out of General Lee, putting her in BL’s car then helping BL, holding her close, Bo tipped BL’s chin up for a long goodnight kiss. “See you tomorrow Darlin, sweet dreams.” “Good night, see you tomorrow,” BL replied, getting in her car, heading home.

Saturday morning the rooster crowed, nearly scaring the smokejumpers and Dixie’s friend and coworker Debbie to death. Debbie sat straight up at the sound of Rodney telling everyone that he ruled the roost. Daisy opened ?” Debbie asked. "What was what?" Daisy was oblivious to the normal sounds of the farm. As Rodney crowed again, Debbie said, "That!" "What?" Daisy said again, listening extra hard. Rodney cut loose again. "That!" Debbie was nearly in hysterics. Daisy smiled, "It's alright, that's just Rodney. Do you want to meet him?" “Sure I guess,” Debbie answered. “Come on, we’ll gather the eggs,”Daisy replied. The rooster’s crow hadn’t just woke Debbie and the smokejumpers, the farm ‘kids’ were all beginning to stir. Jed and Jeremiah were moving the fastest though as they dashed out of the barn, hands covering their mouths. Coy looked to Vance as the kids ran out of the barn, "Come on Cuz. I think it's our turn to be the older cousins." Vance replied as he stood up, "Yeah, I think you are right." Bo, not really a morning person usually, drug himself up from the sleeping bags, he and BL had spread out to make a bed big enough for both of them. “Guess we better get the chores done, C’mon Jeb, let’s get at it,” Bo said, giving Jeb a nudge. “We’ll help ya’ll, so Luke can stay with his misses a bit longer,” Cooter said. Bo replied, "I'm sure your sister will appreciate that." Luke's voice filtered down from above, "Get Randy. Tell him what you need, and he'll motivate the rest of the crew." "How did he hear us?" Cooter asked. Bo waved his hand, "Don't ask. Randy, hey Randy, Luke said you could get the rest of the crew to pitch in with chores." Randy was awake and had also grown up on a farm. "I can. What do you need from us?" In the loft, Luke was snuggling with Dixie as the others came to life below. Dixie was very attentive to Luke's touches. Luke smiled at his wife's reactions to his touches as he entered her most personal spaces.Dixie was surprised and over the edge in seconds. One second, one movement from her and Luke was done. Trying to keep what was going on between them their secret, both struggled to be silent when they both wanted to scream in ecstasy. Bo told Randy what needed doing and Randy then told the rest of the crew where they were needed. Casey had been set the task of milking Nadine the goat. How hard could it be? She thought, getting a pail, Casey got Nadine up on the little stand where Jesse usually milked, sat the pail in place and then tried what she’d seen on TV, but nothing happened. “Ok, Nadine I’m new at this, give me your milk please,” Casey said. BL came back from feeding Sadie to find Casey still having problems. “Something wrong Casey?" BL asked. "Randy asked me to milk the goat but it’s not working like it does on television. I think she’s broken” Casey replied. “I’ll do this, why don’t you ask Randy or one of Luke’s cousins if something else needs doing.” BL said. Casey went looking for one of the others and BL got busy milking. Clyde had goats, so BL knew what she was doing . Jesse had put two pots of coffee on and figured to follow with at least two more. The eggs were in, the cows' milk was in, so he had breakfast underway as Pauline and Bessie came in the kitchen to help. ”Mornin Bessie, mornin Pauline,” Jesse said when his sisters-in-law came into the kitchen. ”Good morning Jesse,” Pauline answered, getting ready to make biscuits. “Good morning Jesse, have you seen the kids yet?” Bessie asked although she said kids as if including all the young people, she really meant her sons. Jesse went over to get something from the refrigerator and just happened to glance out the window in time to see Vance and Coy come from the side of the barn with Jeremiah and Jeb. Jesse made an about face, getting his red cap “Think I’ll go see how the chores are going, ain’t none of Luke’s friends or that girl that works with Dixie lives on a farm,” Jesse said headed for the barn. BL was just about to bring in the goat’s milk “here's the goat’s milk Uncle Jesse, where do you want me to put it?” “Set it on the table BL,” Jesse replied. Seeing where Jesse was heading and knowing what he’d find BL mumbled to herself, "uoh”. Jed and Jeremiah were taking turns being sick. Each time the one threw up, it caused the other to throw up again. Vance had to say it, "I told you that drinking that ‘water’ wasn't a good idea." Jed replied, "How would you know?" “Well I could tell you it’s wisdom that’s come with age but the truth is I’ve been right where you are,” Vance said, figuring being straight was better than sugar coating it. Jesse came in the barn, saw that he’d been right in his assumption of the situation from the sight he’d seen from the kitchen window Looking around and not seeing any of the other young folk, except 4 of his nephews, 2 of which were hungover, he asked “where’s Luke?” Coy and Vance both froze at the gruff tone their Uncle used. They both were smart enough to know that they were in hot water. Vance spoke up first, "We haven't seen him this morning. “Right here Uncle Jesse,” Luke said, coming down the hayloft ladder. Once on the ground, he finished buttoning and tucking in his shirt. “Where’s Bo and Jeb? I have a feeling they’re right in the middle of this,” Jesse said in the same gruff tone, it was no wonder his hair had turned white, he had earned gray hair. Luke had no real idea where anyone other than Dixie was. He looked at the others for answers. Vance spoke up, "Jeb is getting the chores started and, ... um Bo, ... is.... Coy was doing his best not to bring anymore attention to himself than there already was so, he was keeping quiet. Noone had to find Bo, as he picked that moment to walk in, whistling a tune. He might not have got the same amount of action he was sure Luke had but BL had been just as attentive last night. One look at the other guys and the tune died on his lips “what’s going on?” Bo asked, even though he had a pretty good idea. “Get Jeb,”Luke said. Bo left the barn to find his cousin, a few minutes later the 2 blondes returned. Jesse studied his nephews before speaking “Jeremiah, Jed why don’t you two go get cleaned up before your mama sees you,” Jesse said to his youngest nephews. ”Yes sir Uncle Jesse,” the boys replied at the same time and headed to do just that. Luke jumped in, " Boys, the shower out here is fixed, use it, we'll have someone get ya’ll a change of clothes." Jesse added, "That will be fine. Now, we's got us a bunch of company. But, don't ya'll be taking off anywhere, even you, Luke." There was a chorus of 'Yes, Sirs.' “There’s coffee made already, I’ll get you a pot. Hope we got enough cups to go around,” Jesse said more to himself than his nephews but they were still listening. He hadn't dismissed them and none of them would be disrespectful and just walk away. “Me and the other smokejumpers can use the cups in our gear,” Luke said. For the first time in a long time, Jesse wished he had borrowed the fifty cup pot from the VFW (Veterans of Foreign Wars). He would make it work. On his way out of the barn, Jesse spotted BL, "Come get this first pot of coffee." BL followed along with Daisy who heard the worry about enough cups. In the house, Daisy broke out a sleeve of large foam cups for coffee and foam plates for breakfast. Luke found Randy and the two came up with three more coffee pots and sent them in the house. BL came back with a coffee pot in one hand and a stack of foam cups in the other, “coffee”. Luke poured two cups, going back up to Dixie, he thought she would have come down by now. “Brought you some coffee,” Luke said. Vance was still feeling like he’d not kept a good enough watch on his younger cousins and thus partly blamed himself for their hangovers. “Here, drink this, you'll feel better,” Vance said, handing each boy a foam cup of black coffee. Everybody poured themselves a cup of coffee to ease their headaches, a combination of the late night and drinking. “Anybody want sugar, milk, or cream,” BL asked. Most drank their coffee plain, but a few accepted the condiments. Dixie accepted the coffee as she picked the hay from her hair, brushed it and pulled it back into a ponytail. "Thanks, Luke. I needed that extra ten minutes. I hope they all think I got a bit too tipsy last night." Luke had often handed her his glass or jar throughout the night. He also hoped no one found anything amiss this morning. "Ready?" "As I'll ever be." Dixie replied. Luke took her hand and pulled her gently back from the ladder, "Atttt, me first." He started over the top of the ladder, then down a couple rungs and stopped waiting for Dixie. Dixie stepped on the ladder like she had since she was about three, but this time Luke had his arms on either side of the ladder and was behind her so that she couldn't fall. Once on the ground… “About time you got up lazy bones, we all done put in half day’s work,” Cooter teased his sister. Dixie saw that everybody was sitting around with their own cups of coffee. The chores were finished now they were all waiting for breakfast to be ready. "I might not have been down here, but I was awake." Dixie fired back at her older brother. In the house Jesse left the breakfast preparations to his sisters in law and took Elbert to the front porch, to tell him about Jeremiah and Jed’s experimenting last night out of Bessie’s earshot. He knew Elbert would understand, being a Duke boy himself once. Elbert replied, "Jesse, this may do them boys more good than harm." Jesse was glad to hear his brother's observation of the situation. Dixie made her way to the house to help with breakfast, not because it was expected or that she was needed but because it was the right thing to do. "Morning, ya'll." She said chipperly as she entered the kitchen. Smells of frying bacon, sausage and eggs hit her nose, "What do you need me to do?" Before anyone could answer, Dixie's eyes went wide, then she bolted for the back door, much faster than she had come in it. Pauline and Bessie watched Dixie bolt out the door she’d just come in then they looked at each other. “Wonder what’s wrong with her,?” Pauline said out loud. “If I hadn’t seen her drinking at the reception, I’d say she was in the family way,” Bessie said. Pauline replied, "Couldn't be that, they haven't been married a week yet." Then, she heard what she said and looked at Bessie, "No, .... Surely not. Bessie just gave Pauline a look. The two sister-in-laws had been friends and family long enough to know each other very well. Bessie added, "Now, don’t go jumping the gun Pauline. Maybe the girl just had a bit too much to drink last night. Every time I saw her, she had a glass in her hand." Daisy was heading for the barn as BL came out with the coffee pot, it hadn’t taken long to empty with so many drinking out of it. Shaking the coffee pot she told Daisy and Dixie who looked a little peaked “barn crew, needs a refill. Daisy, will you get it, please?” “Sure, be right back,” Daisy said, taking the coffee pot inside to swap. While Daisy was inside “what’s wrong, you look peaked,” BL said to Dixie. “I feel a little nauseous,” Dixie replied. “You think it’s morning sickness?” BL asked. “Oh Lord, I hope not,” Dixie groand. Dixie was trying to downplay what she actually felt, trying not to draw too much attention to herself. If she was lucky, everyone would assume that she had drank too much too late last night. BL asked, "Well, if you are feeling better, are you ready to go help with breakfast?" Dixie had hoped the fresh air would make the nausea go away, but at BL's mention of food, Dixie's mouth began to water. She gritted her teeth determined not to throw up, she swallowed, then retched all the way to her toes. She swallowed several more times, knowing if she'd just give in that she'd likely feel better but tried desperately not to give in. Dixie lost the battle and threw up basically nothing but couldn’t stop dry heaving and retching. “Great,” BL said under her breath. Daisy came back with the fresh pot of hot brew “Here ya go BL,” Daisy said. “Thanks,would you take it out to the barm?” BL asked, continuing, “I gotta help Dixie.” “Sure, no problem,” Daisy replied as she headed for the barn. Both BL and Dixie let out the breath they were holding. BL had made sure she had blocked Daisy’s view of Dixie. Dixie finally got herself a bit composed and told BL, "I don't know what that was, but I don't want to do it again. If I go back in there... " Just the thought of the smell of the cooking bacon and sausage almost made her start to retch again as her stomach did a flip flop. ."I can't go back in there." “You don’t have to, I’ll bring out tablecloths for the picnic tables. That way you’re still helping,” BL said. BL went in the back door and asked, “Daisy, where’s the extra tablecloths?” ”That drawer on the end by the door,” Daisy replied. BL got out the tablecloths and took them to Dixie. “The aunts are going to set everything out buffet style, just get Luke to get you something, so you can stay out here. BL said. Dixie replied, "That should work." After helping with the tablecloths and putting out what was needed on the tables, Dixie went to get the others starting toward the tables. Seeing the cooler in Luke's truck, she took her chances. She hoped somewhere in there was something fairly cold and carbonated. She was in luck, there were a few drinks left. She grabbed a 7UP hoping that it would settle her stomach down. Everyone started filing into the house where they saw bowls of eggs, grits and gravy and a platter with bacon,sausage and ham along with a platter of biscuits and one of pancakes. “Mmm, Ms. Bessie, Ms. Pauline, smells great!” Cooter said, filling his plate as he went down the buffet style line. “Luke, can we talk for a second?” BL pulled Luke out of earshot of the others, without waiting for an answer. She told him how Dixie ran out of the kitchen and that she’d gotten sick. “Did my aunts see this?” Luke asked, worried they might guess what was wrong with Dixie. BL nodded a little and with a prayer that Bessie and Pauline thought Dixie had drank too much, the two went back to the others waiting for their turn to fix a plate. Luke took two plates and began to put food on each. He made one especially light. Pauline looked at Luke with question, "Where's your bride?" Luke replied, "She's making sure that the guys have coffee, milk and such, so I'm getting her breakfast. Jeb, understanding how his youngest cousins felt about being treated like little kids by their mother, recruited LB and BB to help the youngest Dukes get ‘lost’ in the breakfast crowd and avoid too much scrutiny from aunt Bessie. It was BL’s misfortune to be noticed by Bessie as she put sausage and pancakes on her plate. “BL dear, have you seen Jed and Jeremiah? I haven’t seen them come through to get breakfast,” Bessie looked ready to fix plates for them, then hunt them down and make sure they ate. “Yes ma’am I saw them and they had a plate,” BL replied. She just didn’t say there wasn’t much on those plates because even though the boys felt better, they were still a little green around the gills. The boys weren't the only ones green. Dixie tried to avoid sitting down to eat, but when she no longer could, she sat, took a bite of toast, and slid her bacon onto Luke's plate. A couple bites of egg later, she slid over the sausage. She turned down offers for coffee but drank an extra glass of milk. She willed the food to stay down as she repeated her claim to not be a breakfast or morning person. A fact many of the others would back her up on. Dixie tried her best to will away her nausea so she didn’t throw up and ruin breakfast for everybody. “Are you feeling better now? Luke asked only so Dixie heard. “A little,” Dixie replied. By now Bo had noticed Dixie didn’t look well and she was acting kind of funny. Bo, like several of the group of young people, knew Dixie wasn’t really a breakfast person or even a morning person for that matter. “Is Dixie alright?” Bo leaned closer, whispering to BL. “Feeling a little nauseous,” BL replied. She knew Bo really didn’t know much about pregnancy and she didn’t want to have a conversation explaining morning sickness so kept it simple. BALLADEER: Jed and Jeremiah had taken cool showers in the barn. Then it was strongly suggested that they drink strong black coffee. They made it to the table, looking almost presentable to everyone but their mother had she been outside. The boys put food on their plates. Jeremiah wisely listened to what the older men had told them. He chose toast and eggs. He slowly ate. Jed knew it all and put sausage, bacon and biscuits and gravy on his plate. He dug into his food like normal. About half way through his plate, he urgently asked to be excused. Before anyone could say anything, Jed bolted from the table. He made it just to the big oak in the yard when everything that went in came out. The sounds that made it to the table was enough to send Jeremiah to join him. Dixie tried a sip of soda, clenched her teeth. She felt herself get very hot just before she too left the table in a trot. As Luke stood to follow her,Vance asked, "Did she drink that much?" Luke looked to where Dixie had gone, then said “I better go check on her.” He hadn’t denied Dixie being hungover, same as the boys but Dukes don’t lie and tell the whole truth, that Dixie’s pregnant,not an option. “Are you alright?” Luke asked when he reached Dixie. The others continued with their breakfast, almost everyone anyway. After giving the boys a few minutes to pull themselves together, Vance and Coy went to check on them. Dixie replied, "I'll be fine." 'Eventually,' she silently added. "This is not, gonna be, FUN." She motioned to both families. "Just pull yourself together and let them think you drank way too much last night. No one knows what went on upstairs." Luke said with a bit of a wicked grin. Bessie HAD to see that her babies were alright, she hadn’t seen them this morning. Excusing herself she pretended to go to the bathroom but went out on the front porch quietly instead. Coy, Vance, Jed and Jeremiah were heading back to the others at the same time. “Good morning boys,” Bessie called. “Good morning Aunt Bessie,” Coy and Vance replied. Jed and Jeremiah mumbled a good morning to their mother, both were still not feeling upto par. “Jed, Jeremiah don’t you feel well?” Bessie asked, making her way off the porch and over to them. Seeing the familiar pale face and bloodshot eyes of a hangover, Bessie gasped, turning a pair of flaming eyes on her nephews who found their boots suddenly fascinating. BALLADEER: Bessie ain’t no stranger to hungover Duke men, she used to give ol’ Elbert that same look from time to time, back when they was young and first got married. When neither her boys nor her nephews would look at her, Bessie knew she was right. "Elbert! Jesse!" In the kitchen, both men let out a slight groan. Pauline knew if Bessie was calling the men that something was wrong with the 'kids'. She was moving toward the door. John winced at the sight of his wife heading outside. “Vance, HOW did this happen? I was counting on you and Luke to keep the boys from this sort of thing!” Bessie propped her hands on her hips. The rest of the elder Dukes came out as Bessie scolded her nephew. “We didn't exactly LET this happen. We did give them a taste, just like we was given a taste about their age, if we hadn’t we knew they was just gonna sneak it,” Vance defended himself and Luke. Pauline opened her mouth to say something but John stopped her, “Stay out of it Pauline,” John said quietly. “It ain’t all Vance and Luke’s fault Aunt Bessie,I gave them a little more after they had drunk all Vance give them,” Coy spoke up. “Coy Duke…” Bessie said, exasperated. Each Duke also admitted to giving the boys the slightest drink of shine, which added up to quite a big drink once it was put together. Jesse, Elbert and John saw what had happened. Jesse said, "Ladies, we'll take care of this. Ya'll can go back in the house." ”You ought to switch the lot, giving alcohol to children and getting them drunk,” Bessie fussed. “Bessie go on in the house now,” Elbert said. The older Duke ‘boys’ didn’t look too worried about their aunt’s suggestion, it had been years since Jesse had taken a switch to them. The two youngsters though were a mite more concerned about what their father would do to them, judging by his expression, somebody was in for it. “Dad it ain’t none of their faults we are hungover, we snookered them into giving us all that shine,” Jeremiah said, until now neither teen had said much. “Are you gonna whup us?” Jed asked,embarrassed that his older cousins would know about it. “No son I’m not, you’re too big for a whuppin’. Ya’ll want to be treated like your older cousins, so be it. You will abide by whatever punishment your Uncle Jesse hands out,” Elbert replied. Jesse said gruffly, "That can wait a spell, Elbert. We still have a bunch of company. You boys go help get the dishes in the house for now. “Yes sir,” Jeremiah and Jed both said. Since the men wouldn’t let them take part in the goings on with the boys outside, Bessie and Pauline had gone to the kitchen to clean up. Daisy and BL came in the back door and saw them about to get started. “Aunt Bessie, Aunt Pauline we’ll clean up, ya’ll cooked,” Daisy said. “Why don’t you take a cup of coffee and go sit on the porch and relax.” BL said. So the two older women did just that, grateful not to have to clean up, it’d been hard work cooking all that food without having to clean up too. The boys came in and got a couple big trash bags, “Uncle Jesse said for us to help,” Jeremiah said on their way back out with the trash bags. After making sure that Dixie was alright, Luke had managed to recruit the Davenport geniuses with wiring new lights for his pickup along with Randy's new siren box. Bo had been talking to Ryan and Bugs about some driving techniques which he planned to show them in the fields. Dixie eased in the back door of the kitchen hoping the food smells were gone so she could at least help out some. The smells of food were gone, it had been hot and stuffy, so Daisy and BL had opened the kitchen windows. “What do you want me to do?” Dixie asked. “You wash, I’ll dry and Daisy can put stuff where it goes so she can find it later,” BL replied. In no time the three young ladies had the dishes washed and the kitchen back in order. By the time the girls had the kitchen put back together and got back out to the barn, Luke, Cooter, LB and BB had the entire dash and headliner out of his pickup. Anyone who knew Luke, knew that this truck, next to General Lee of course, was his pride and joy. Dixie looked from Daisy to BL, "I know that bunch is great with the older cars, but I sure hope they know what they are doing.” Meanwhile Bo was on a mission of his own, he was calling on Mr.Partridge, who let him and Luke test new parts on General Lee or just get in some practice for a race. He was getting permission for him and Jeb to practice for the races both car and motocross, at the Hatchapee fair that was coming up. Plus he wanted to show the smokejumpers. “Thanks Mr. Partridge,” Bo says, putting Mr. Partridge's written permission in his shirt pocket. At the Duke farm Jeb was checking out his bike to make sure it was ready to race. Jeb asked Debbie, "Would you like to go for a ride?" Debbie wasn't really sure of herself and had never been near a dirt bike, let alone a racing one. "I don't know. I've never been around bikes." "I'll go real easy and you can hang on real tight." Jeb said, giving her a reassuring Duke smile. Debbie swung her leg over the bike behind Jeb, from out of nowhere it seemed to the others, he handed her a spare helmet, “hang on tight now,” Jeb said. As soon as Debbie wrapped her arms around his middle he took off. Bo was on the way to tell everyone they had permission to use Mr. Partridge’s land, when he met Jeb and Debbie. Slowing just a bit, Bo held his arm out the window giving Jeb a thumbs up and a blast of ‘DIXIE’ from General Lee. At the farm Bo gave everyone the news. Jeremiah and Jeb wanted to go too but weren't sure their parents would let them, especially Bessie. Not only did Elbert let his boys go, but much to Bessie and Pauline's displeasure, he, John, and Jesse also went. They even broke out Tilley to play with. Jed asked, "You mean you really ran shine in this old thing?" Jeremiah said, "They were doing it when the car wasn't that old." Jesse replied, "Well, you are right there, but even now Tilley and General Lee there can still show up these newer vehicles." "No way." Said Jed. The older men were having as much fun as the ‘kids’ doing donuts, spin outs, tail fishing, 180’s and Jesse did the most daring by hitting sand bags with two wheels, turning Tilley up on her side, riding the opposite two wheels a ways before coming back down on all four. They had traded places each taking a turn behind Tilley’s steering wheel. After a while Jesse asked the two youngsters in the car, “you boys want a turn?” The boys looked at their father with pleading eyes,” can we Dad,please?” Smiling Elbert said “I don’t see why not, we were driving in the fields as soon as we could see and reach the pedals at the same time, just don’t tell your mother.” Jeremiah was in the front seat with Jesse so he drove first, at first he was satisfied to go fast on the straight aways but once he had time to get a feel for the car, Jesse started giving him instructions on driving like a moonshiner. After letting the youngest Dukes have a little fun behind the wheel, the older men pulled up a tailgate with the young'uns to watch the festivities. Bo, with some help from the Smokejumpers, had set up a ramp that Jeb or the General could both use. Debbie asked, "What are they going to do with the ramp?" Dixie was in her usual place, sitting right on the hood of the wrecker. BALLADEER: Her father used to sit her there as a kid to keep her out of the way. Dixie replied, "Just watch. You'll love it." Jeb set up and took the first jump. "Oh Lord." Was all Debbie said as she saw the bike heading toward the ramp and not slowing down. Once Jeb was on the ground, Debbie asked, "Does he do that often?" Dixie and Daisy both replied, nodding their heads 'yes'. "And, you let me ride with him?" Debbie asked. Dixie grinned, "He promised to take it easy AND he let you hang on real tight." BL chimed in from her place beside Dixie on the wrecker’s hood, because it was the best place to watch from, “if there’s one thing a Duke boy can do, it’s drive anything on wheels.” Looking across the field, the girls watched as Luke slammed General Lee's hood. He put on his helmet and got into the passenger seat to hook up his safety harness. Bo was racing the General's powerful engine. Jed asked, "So, now what's so special about that car?" Before anyone could reply, Bo let out on the clutch, and General Lee raced through the field, hit the ramp, and flew through the air. Once on the ground, all the Dukes (except Jed and Jeremiah) and Davenports were overjoyed. Cooter said, "That looks like they might have just did it!" Dixie hopped off the hood, "I'll get the tape measure!" Now, most every onlooker was making their way to the ramp and the generals' landing spot. Cooter stretched the tape measure out, "Whewwee mother dog!" Bo asked, "Well?" "Eighty two feet!!!" Cooter said. Bo and Luke were out of the car in a flash. Sure enough it was an eight two foot jump! Luke exclaimed, "That's at least 2 foot over the last record jump we made!" Everything was going right along until Rosco happened to drive by on patrol, there was a big ditch on both sides of the narrow road and he couldn’t turn around without first going down the road a piece. BL heard the siren come on way before the patrol car came back into view. Rosco leaned out the window with his bullhorn. “Everybody FREEZE! You can’t be racing, it’s against the law in Hazzard county.” “On the road, racing is against the law but this here’s private land,” Dixie replied. By now the older Dukes and Cooter, LB and BB were gathering and listening, Cooter and Vance perched in the windows of Vance and Coy’s car they had been racing General Lee that Bo and Luke were now also perched in the windows. Jeb and Coy had been racing each other. Coy had borrowed his friend Jack Simmons' bike. “We ain’t on the road. Besides we got permission, Mr. Partridge said we could race all day if we wanted, gave it to me in writing,” Bo said, taking the folded paper out of his pocket. “I don’t believe that cos you Dukes just lie all the time.” Rosco laughed his trademark giggle. “Dukes don’t lie!” Jeremiah and Jed hollered even though they’d been taught better respect for their elders, especially the law. “Naughty, naughty you ought not talk to the law like that,” Rosco chided the youngest Dukes. “They’re telling the truth and you know it Rosco,” BL said. “Tell it like it is,” Cooter added. Rosco hadn't seen the oldest three Duke boys ease over. Jesse spoke calmly, "Now, Rosco, you know if my boys and their friends is together , theys gonna be racing. Now, I'm not wanting to have to call in Lulu's favor of you leaving them be, so they got written permission to be out here from Hank. Now, they are doing what theys supposed to do, so you just leave them be." John and Elbert were standing on either side of Jesse, making it clear, if Rosco bothered the kids, he'd have all three of them to deal with. “If you move any of these vehicles onto a thoroughfare, I’ll cite you 6 ways til sunday,” Rosco threatened, “I’ll do it,” he added but seeing the looks he was still getting from the oldest three Duke boys, he decided it was a good time to go and he did. With Rosco out of the way, Jesse said “Elbert, John why don’t we head home let the younguns enjoy their playtime without 3 old codgers around,” Jesse said. “Jed, Jeremiah come on boys lets go,” Elbert said to the youngest Duke boys, he figured the older ‘kids’ should get some time with their friends without keeping an eye on his boys. Coy fired up the bike he was on, and as he released the clutch, it died. He tried a couple more times but the bike failed to run. Jeb had made his way over and was now checking fuel lines, spark plugs, and anything else he could think of to make the older bike run. Nothing. He looked at Cooter and Luke who were largely the mechanics of the bunch, "Any ideas?" Cooter gave the bike a once over. "Carburetor, looks like the seals have had it." Coy replied, "Great. I can't take Jack's bike back not running. Cooter said, "Well, you are in luck cause you sure don’t live right, I just happen to have a rebuild kit for this very bike in my garage." Luke gave him a look. "That means going to town." Coy replied, "It means getting Jack his bike back, running." Luke sighed. Dixie said, reminding Luke of Rosco's warning, "Luke." He put his hand up "I'll go with him we'll take the wrecker. It will be fine." BALLADEER: If ya’ll believe that I have some ocean front property real cheap in Tennessee. Cooter walked over to the wrecker making a shewing motion with his hand, saying “ladies I’d like to borrow my truck if you don’t mind.” Dixie and BL slid off the wrecker’s hood, sitting on an open tailgate. Five minutes after leaving, Luke looked in the side mirror and saw Rosco behind the wrecker. “We got company,” Luke said. “Now how come you can’t find him when you do want him but he’s always around when you don’t?” Cooter said to noone, more than really asking Luke. Picking up the CB mic Luke called Bo for backup “Bo, you got your ears on?” “Right here cousin, what’s up?” Bo asked. “We picked up a tail, one Rosco P. Coltrane. We could use some interference, if we are going to get that kit and get back before supper,” Luke replied. ”What’s your 20?” Bo asked. “We’re almost to the crossroads,” Luke said. “10-4, be there in 5,” Bo replied. Everybody had heard the radio transmission and the remaining Dukes and Davenports who knew what Hazzard law was like, headed for a vehicle. “Come on Debbie, you don’t want to miss the fun,” Jeb said, giving her a Duke smile, a mischievous twinkle in his eyes. Debbie wasn’t sure she wanted in on the ‘fun’ but she didn’t want to be left in the boonies. Besides, putting her arms around Jeb again was a very appealing thought, as she climbed on behind Jeb. Vance didn't want to take the younger boys, but didn't want to leave them either, choosing what he deemed the lesser of the two evils, he said, "Get in, hang on and shut up." The two teens were eager to see whatever that was about to happen, so they did as told. Coy settled in the passenger seat when the teens got in the backseat. Dixie jumped in with BL and Daisy as she silently planned her brother and new husband's murder. Jeb and Debbie tore out behind Bo, who had most of Luke's crew with him in the General Lee. LB and BB took the rest in their pickups. Hoping to get between Rosco and the wrecker, Bo keyed his CB mic “give me some room Cooter, I’m coming in for a landing.” Luke keyed the mic so Cooter could concentrate on driving “that’s a big 10-4 good buddy,” Cooter replied, giving the wrecker gas. Bo turned on a road that ran parallel and above the one Cooter, Rosco and the rest were on, hitting a dip in the road, General Lee took flight. “YEEHAA”, Bo yelled a blast of ‘dixie’ ringing through the air. “Coy, Vance did ya’ll see that? Bo jumped without a ramp,” Jed exclaimed now impressed. “Shoot that’s nothing you should see General Lee jump over a creek,” Coy replied. “We made it,” Randy said, opening his eyes wide when the stock car landed with a bone jarring jolt. Bo laughed, "Of course we did, but that was just about twenty feet, nothing like you Smokejumpers do when you jump out of those perfectly good airplanes." Bo said as he was turning the General Lee's steering wheel side to side to use all the road so Rosco couldn't get by, but he had also slowed the parade down a mite. Ryan asked, "Why are you slowing down?" Bo replied, as he pointed up ahead at the wrecker, gaining ground, "To give Cooter and Luke some time to get ahead of us." Bo saw the Hazzard County junkyard coming up, stepping on the gas a little more and General Lee picked up speed. Bo knew Rosco would follow him for 3 reasons, 1 Bo had been swerving all over the road, 2 he was speeding and 3 Rosco chased General Lee every chance he got. “Catch me if you can Rosco,” Bo said. Let’s go up on the top of rocky top to watch the show,” BL said. “Good idea,” Daisy replied, making the sharp turn. The rest of the older Duke and Davenport cousins followed as if they’d read her mind. The last in line was BB. He pulled across the entrance and exit of the junkyard, then stood on the bumper of the truck to watch the chase. Randy asked Bo, "How did you know he'd follow you?" Bo smiled widely, "He always follows me." Jed and Jeremiah leaned forward from the backseat, they couldn’t see the action down in the junkyard all that great but they didn’t complain, afraid they’d get a one way trip back to the farm instead of getting to hang out with the young adults, who were sitting on the window seals of their car. Jeremiah asked, "How does Bo know where he's going?" Coy laughed, "Most of us have been in every junkyard around looking for parts for years that we know these places like the back of our hands." From their view above the junkyard, Dixie was a little relieved that it seemed so far that Luke and Cooter were safely away from Rosco. She smiled to herself and thought it was a good thing she didn't have to kill Luke this early in their marriage. LB had turned his truck around and let the tailgate down “hey boys, why don’t ya’ll come sit with me, so’s you can see better”. The teens looked at Vance with hopeful expressions. Vance knew it wasn’t right to dampen the boys' fun, just because he wasn’t thrilled with having them along and if he was honest, he was still put out about their hangover this morning landing in his lap. Cooter and Luke pulled in at the garage, Cooter getting out, leaving the driver’s door wide open while he got the carburetor kit they needed. “Where’s the fire?” Luther asked. Cooter replied, "No fire. Just a wet hornets nest.... Rosco." With that he was back in the truck and heading around town. “Bo must still be playing hide and seek with Rosco cos I ain’t seen hide or hair of him,” Luke said as they left town, headed back toward the Partridge farm. “Yeah,” Cooter agreed. When they came upto the entrance to the junkyard, seeing BB’s pickup blocking it Cooter flashed his lights, Bo was just making another pass by, when he saw his way out was clear, he looked back, he’d lost Rosco in the piles of junk, a few turns back. “Show’s over, c’mon ya’ll can ride with me,” LB told the boys as he got up off the tailgate. “Alright!” Jeremiah said, the boys wasted no time getting in the cab of the pickup. Back at Mr. Partridge's open field, all the vehicles converged with the Dukes and Davenport men, each letting out a rebel yell and having a gut busting laugh at Rosco's expense. Their carrying ons was none the out of towners had ever seen. Being older, Randy had to ask, "So what keeps the Sheriff from just coming back here?" Bo replied, "He'll be awhile getting out from under a pile of cars he ran into." Bo saw the look of concern, "He was fine, just hopping mad." “Just a normal day in Hazzard,”BL said. “What if he calls out reinforcements?” Jeremiah asked, he might be just a kid but he knew even small towns usually had at least 1 deputy. “Cletus and Enos can’t hit the ground with their hats, when Daisy bats her eyes at them,” Dixie said. This brought chuckles from all the older Dukes and the Davenports. They got the bike fixed, raced and chased for a bit longer then figured it was time to head in for supper. Dixie told Luke, "I sure hope I can help more this evening, or your aunts are gonna think you married a lazy gal." “There’s so many of us, I doubt they know who’s helping and who ain’t,” Luke reassured. When they all came ‘tearing in’ as Jesse often put it, the three oldest Duke men were standing around Jesse’s smoker. He’d put on some ribs just before they all had gone to the Partridge farm. “Ya’ll have just enough time for chores before the ribs are ready,” Jesse said. The three oldest of their nephews replied, "Yes, Sir." As they walked toward the barn, it was Jeb who asked, "How is there always just enough time for the chores before the ribs?" Luke replied, "I think Uncle Jesse figures it into the cook time." The girls washed up and helped finish the rest of supper up, set the picnic tables, and got the iced tea pitchers on the tables. Jesse took the ribs in the house with the rest of the food that was set up buffet style just like breakfast had been. Jesse said grace and everybody fixed a plate and got a glass of iced tea but unlike breakfast the elder Dukes were eating outside too, they were all talking about the day’s racing and chasing when Jed innocently mentioned his and Jeremiah’s time behind Tilley’s wheel, earning Elbert, John and Jesse death looks from Bessie and Pauline. Elbert asked John to pass the green beans, John asked Jesse for more corn. Each now giving their meal far more attention than the chatter. Dixie was just glad supper seemed a lot more appealing than breakfast had. It was Bugs, Luke's Smokejumper who's middle name may as well be ‘Trouble’, who asked the guys, "So on a normal night, what is there to do around here for fun?" Bo being his usual helpful self spoke up, “the Boar’s Nest is alot more fun than it was last night.” Sounds of agreement came from the other 4 single Duke men. BL looked at Daisy and Dixie, all 3’s expression’s said ‘oh boy’ and it wasn’t a look of delighted anticipation but a bit of worry. Many a Saturday night at the Boar’s Nest had ended with whichever Duke boy or boys was there in the hoosegow and sometimes the Davenport men that were there and the girls ended up in the mix too. BALLADEER: After supper most of the Dukes, Davenports, Smokejumpers and Dixie's friend, Debbie were about ready to head out on the town. Only Uncle Jesse, the older Dukes and the younger boys were staying in, much to their unhappiness. There was a lot going on that was unsaid. First, Jeb seemed to be trying to catch a correctional officer, who just might want caught. Daisy seemed to maybe be trying to catch herself a Smokejumper but wasn't sure which one yet. Then there was Bo and BL who may have done a bit too much of catching each other. Not to mention the newlyweds who would just as soon have gone home alone. Look out Hazzard.... here they come. Jed complained, "We got to go last night. So why can't we go tonight?" Elbert quietly replied, "Because you got to go last night." Sadie had moped around the farm all day because she wasn’t used to BL leaving her behind more than a couple hours at the time but BL had left her all day. At supper the dog had laid directly under BL’s seat and had been stuck like glue all evening. Now she was bouncing around BL barking and wagging her tail thinking they were going somewhere, “Sorry you have to stay here but I bet the boys will play with you,” BL hugged Sadie, then let her in the screened in back porch. Everybody got into a vehicle, Jeb was borrowing BL’s GTO convertible because he didn’t think Debbie was ready for night riding plus she might need to drive back to the farm. They looked like a parade as they turned into the parking lot, General Lee in the lead. “Try not to get in trouble, Rosco’s probably got it in for you more than usual, after that little game of hide and seek, in the junkyard earlier,” BL said as Bo helped her out the window. “Me trouble?” Bo replied innocently. Dixie asked Luke before they pulled into the parking lot, "Is this a good idea?" Luke shrugged, "Probably not, but we can't let our guests go out alone, can we?" "Ok, but remember you are driving for us both again." Dixie reminded. Luke grinned wickedly, "That I can do Darlin"." "Great." Dixie said as they pulled in behind General Lee. “Is it always this busy on Saturday night?” Debbie asked as the group filed in, looking for a couple empty tables they could put together to make one big one. “Not always but it's pay week and it was closed last night for the reception,” Dixie replied. Finally spotting a couple tables, Luke held Dixie’s hand weaving through the crowd, the rest following. Somewhere along the way though, Coy and Vance had gotten sidetracked by Misty and Missy the Hopson twins. Misty and Missy were a pair of double trouble fun. Coy and Vance had messed around with occasionally when in Hazzard. Vance seemed a bit surprised by the two girls. Coy was just as surprised. Both Dukes knew these girls were pretty much a sure thing for a long night of fun, but they were trying for a different sort of fun. As the twins latched onto the boys, Casey and Lisa just kept making their way through the crowd with the rest of their crew. Vance smiled politely, giving Coy a nudge toward the tables everyone else in the group sat at, “nice seeing ya’ll but we better go on over to our cousins table, might not be back for a while we want to spend as much time as we can with them.” Misty wasn't so easily discouraged, "But, Vance, honey, we know your cousins too. In fact, we haven't had a chance to give Luke and Dixie our best." Vance nudged Coy on, "Well, as you see, they have a bunch of out of town guests, but I'm sure you'll see them around." Coy and Vance finally made it to the tables, grabbed extra chairs and squeezed in on either side of Lisa and Casey. Lisa grinned at Vance, "Friends of yours?" Vance ordered two beers with a motion to the waitress, "I haven't seen her in years. Now, where were we?" Lisa replied grinning “I believe you were about to ask me to dance.” Vance returned the grin, “care to dance?” BB was looking around to see who all was out tonight and spotted Hannah Rhuebottom,the daughter of Mr Rheubottom who owned and ran the store in town’s cousin. Hannah wasn’t what most of the guys in the county called pretty, she was kind of plain with mousy brown hair, gray eyes and plump. “Excuse me ya’ll,” BB said before going over to the corner table. Dixie tipped the beer before her to her lips, sat it back down as Luke took her hand and they headed for the dance floor. Rosco was doing his early evening patrol when he stopped at the Boars Nest to check on things, it being Saturday night on a pay week, things were bound to get rowdy. “Goody goody gumdrops, them Dukes and Davenports and them out of towners is all here,” Rosco said with glee, as he went inside scanning the crowd for his prey. Rosco wasn't sure who all was racing at the Partridge place earlier, but the Boar’s Nest parking lot held the vehicles. He started running license plates and filling out tickets. BALLADEER: By the time he was done, Ole Rosco nearly had writer's cramp. Rosco smuggly walked into the bar, crossed theoom and whipped out a ticket while giving his trademark giggle, "Here's a ticket for Bo and one here for Luke and Daisy too. He turned to the Davenports, "I have one for you, BB, LB, BL, and..." He crossed over to the elder Davenport, "You Luther." As Rosco turned toward the Smokejumpers, ..... Luther looked at the ticket then he looked at Rosco like he’d lost his mind. “Rosco, have you lost your mind? What are you giving me a ticket for?” Luther was confused and mad all at the same time. “Because your truck was at the Partridge farm and that bunch over there was racing,” Rosco replied. BL rolled her eyes at the explanation Luther got “how come I get a ticket then? My car hasn’t left the Duke farm since yesterday afternoon until now.” Rosco thought back, he couldn't swear BL's car was at the Partridge place, "Where they are, you are, and so is your car. Besides,it's here now!" Rosco explained. BL sighed, there was no point arguing, Rosco wasn’t listening he never did. Instead she gave Jeb a sweet smile, which he learned to be wary of long ago “Jeb this must be yours, since you're in my car tonight” BL said, sliding the ticket over. “What’s the charge?” Bo asked, causing the others to notice their tickets had no charge either. Rosco replied, "You know I write the tickets, Boss Hogg fills in the charges." Luke exclaimed, "What?!" "Now that dog don't hunt, Rosco!" "You can't do that Rosco!" Dixie said. "Can and did." Rosco replied. “Now as I was saying,” Rosco again turned toward the smokejumpers continuing “Now I got 1 for each of ya, so nobody feels left out,” Rosco said, giving each a ticket. “Rosco you can’t do that,” Bo said. “Can and did, now hush and don’t give no sass Duke boy,” Rosco said. Luke held his hand to stop the protests from his team, "Rosco this ain't over, but for tonight we're gonna go finish our beers and have a good time." He motioned everyone back to their tables. At the table, Randy asked, "so how much does a ticket for 'nothing' usually run around here?" He noted the blank charges. BALLADEER: Some days you can’t cram it into second, even if ya double clutch it. How about a game or two of pool, darlin,” Bo said putting his arm around BL giving his lady killer grin. “Sure, I don’t mind skunking you anytime,” BL replied,smirking. “Think, I’ll come watch,” Bugs, one of Luke’s team members, followed the couple to the pool table in the back. “Want to dance sugar?” Vance flashed Lisa a Duke trademark lady killer smile. “Yes,”Lisa smiled, standing up as Vance pulled back her chair. It wasn’t long before Coy and Casey, another of Luke’s team members, joined the couple on the dance floor. Rosco was sipping his coffee, eager for something, anything to pop off so he could arrest someone for something. Boss Hogg entered the bar from his office. Aside from the local regulars, there were several Davenports, Dukes, out of town Dukes and some strangers at the Dukes table. Boss went to the register and printed off a total sheet. He was very happy. Rosco moved to his side as he came out from behind the bar, " I'm ready. I just know something is gonna pop off and I'm just gonna get them." Boss Hogg replied, "No, no you ain't. " " I ain't? " Rosco was confused. "No, you ain't. At least not in here. You just let this bunch drink all they want as long as they ain't busting up the place." Boss instructed. “She some kinda pool shark?” Bugs asked Bo. BL had beat Bo twice and was headed for a third victory. Bo’s head wasn’t in the game, he’d been thinking all week about how he’d messed up and seeing Dixie unable to fully partake in the weekend’s festivities and also the reason for them in the first place just served to drive home how bad he’d messed up. “Huh, uh no I just let her think I can’t play worth a hoot,” Bo snapped out of his head with a cocky grin. “In your dreams maybe,” BL said, sinking the last 3 balls. “Excuse me gentlemen, I need to go to the little girl’s room,” BL said, leaving the men behind, making her way up front to the restrooms. Bo and Luke had long ago made a habit of watching the girls as they headed off on their own in the bar. As Bo watched BL's backside, a view he happened to be enjoying, his attention was drawn away when David Doolin, Dobro's older brother, and his wife walked into the bar. Bo couldn't help but notice Jeannie Ann, who had been a waitress at the Boar's Nest about a year ago, as she waddled her very pregnant self over to a table and was now surrounded by the other waitresses as David made his way over to Luke. He shook Luke's hand and gave their best wishes along with his explanation of working an extra shift the night before in preparation for the little one’s arrival. Bo suddenly felt ill. He broke out into a sweat as he suddenly pictured BL in a very pregnant state. He was now at the table hearing David going on about having to take extra shifts at work. Bo had never really held a job. He had worked the farm, he drove on the NASCAR car circuit, but that wasn't work. Could he even do a factory job? "Luke." Bo said. He got no response, "Luke." he said again, a bit more insistent. Luke heard Bo, but was trying to hear David as he talked. Bo was now tugging on Luke's sleeve gently and where no one else could see, "Luke." He nearly whined like he had about age three. Luke finally responded, "What, Bo?" "I need you to come check the carburetor on General Lee." Bo said urgently, as if he were telling Luke the barn was on fire. "What?" Luke asked, totally confused. "Yeah, it's bad. Come on." Bo insisted. Luke gave Dixie a look. He had to go see what was up with Bo, "I'll be right back, Darlin'" Dixie had been around the boys enough, she waved him on, "OK. Go on." Luke stood up, Bo latched on to him with a death grip and nearly drug him out the side door, even though the General was parked out front. Outside, Bo was frantic and freaking out, "Luke! Luke, did you see Jeannie Ann? Oh, Lord! What if, .... BL, ... oh, Lord! Luke, it was only once! I swear it was. Jeannie Ann was always so much smaller than BL and now,... Luke, BL just can't be PREGNANT!" Bo promptly picked that moment to violently throw up. In the bathroom BL wasn’t feeling so great herself, she felt dizzy as she went in the stall her head felt like it might explode any minute and she felt bloated but chalked that upto having made a pig out of herself on Jesse’s ribs, at supper. Dixie took Luke's absence as an opportunity to sneak off to the restroom herself. Outside, Luke had to at least grin a little at Bo's distress, right up until he saw Jeb, Vance and Coy standing behind him with their eyes bugging out. It was apparent they had heard Bo's last few words. BL was a bit surprised to see she had started her period, unlike Dixie she really didn’t keep track, when asked at her last physical she could only give an estimate. This was a welcome visit from her monthly ‘friend’, who always showed up at an inconvenient time but this time was more than a little convenient, it meant she wasn’t pregnant. Out in the bar, LB was getting better acquainted with Sara Grace Frawley, preacher JP Frawley’s great niece. BALLADEER: Friends don’t let her family relations fool you, she ain’t no saint. After a moment of stunned silence, Luke was now faced with a chorus as all three cousins spoke at once, "Who's pregnant?" "Pregnant, really?" "Pregnant??!!" Now Luke and Bo were trying to hush their three younger cousins, hoping no one else heard that word. BL’s first instinct was to tell Bo the good news but she thought better of it, the whole county would know their business if she told him here at the Boar’s Nest so she decided to wait until they were alone, having no idea that there was a discussion going on outside about the ordeal. Luther still not one bit happy about Cooter’s ticket on the wrecker being given to him because he owned it, had told Cooter he’d take calls the rest of the weekend, his look telling Cooter not only would they talk later but that the amount of said ticket was coming out of Cooter’s pay. Luke dropped his tailgate and got Bo sitting down, "You may as well explain before they start jumping to conclusions." Bo gave Luke a pleading look. "It's your story to tell." Luke said. Vance, Coy and Jeb were all ears as they gathered round their older cousins, which was making Bo more nervous than he already was. “I reckon you’ve all noticed me and BL are closer than just friends?” Bo said, three heads nodded ‘yes’. “Well lets just say we got caught up in the heat of the moment,” Bo said. The bugged out eye look returned to his cousins faces. “Bo tell us you weren’t dumb and didn’t use protection,” Jeb said incredulously, Bo and Luke but mainly Bo had been preaching to him since he was a teenager about it. “We did but it malfunctioned and now looks like I’m going to be a father,” Bo replied. “I wouldn’t want to be in your shoes, cousin when her Daddy and LB find out,” Vance said. Luke groaned, "Now, Bo, you don't know no such a thing. You are just panicking." "Well, why shouldn't I be? Ya'll saw Jeannie Ann and heard David, how he's been working all those extra shifts and such.... I ain't ever even had a real job, ever." Bo said. “Neither have I but you’ll do just fine,” Jeb said. “IF it turns out that way,” Coy said. Luke decided to have a conversation about things Bo knew, but the others had no clue, "Bo, come on, how many times, years ago, did we have a night of fun without a lot of thought about it. Sure, things can happen after just once, but we've done a lot of things I don't like to admit to and knock on some wood here, it always turned out ok." Luke was now admitting to being a lot less careful in his younger days than he ever wanted his cousins to believe. Dixie came into the restroom just as BL emerged from a stall and over to the sink, “Dixie we HAVE got to talk,” BL said “Ok but I gotta pee,” Dixie replied, going in the stall BL just exited. BL checked to make sure the other 2 stalls were empty, “I’m not pregnant!” BL said. “I thought we’d be raising babies together,” Dixie said. “Maybe next time,”BL replied. ”I can just see you with a houseful of little Luke Dukes running around,” BL grinned, turning and leaving the restroom. Dixie blushed but beamed at BL's picture, and then she saw it. Little Lukes in trees, on jungle gyms, in creeks, she replied, "Oh Lord, I hope not. I'm not getting any younger BL." Outside, Bo tried pulling himself together as his younger cousins digested the information Luke had provided. Bo said, "But, Luke, I just don't know if I'm ready for all that." "IF," Luke stressed the word, "she is, you danged better be." He added, "Do you really think David and Jeannie Ann were ready for twins so soon?" "Twins?" Bo asked. Luke nodded his head 'yes'. BL heard Dixie’s comment before the door closed and was laughing when she came into the main part of the bar again. Not seeing Bo or Luke or the rest of the Duke cousins she headed back to their tables but seeing David and Jeannie Ann she stopped at their table to chat after getting a beer at the bar. “Have ya’ll seen Bo,Luke or the rest of the Duke guys,” BL asked. No sooner had she asked than the 5 men came back inside. Bo still looked a little like he might throw up again but at least he wasn’t freaking out., excusing herself BL walked over to the cousins, Coy, Vance and Jeb were giving her odd looks. Luke even looked at her funny. Bo can we go for a drive? BL asked. “Sure darlin’ let’s go,” Bo replied. Sitting her half finished beer on Molly’s empty tray as the waitress walked by, BL went out to General Lee, stopping before Bo could help her in the window she turned accusing eyes on the blonde, “You told, didn’t you? I thought we were waiting until we found out for sure!” BL climbed through the window, glaring at Bo as he went around, getting behind the steering wheel, cranking up. “I didn’t mean to, I thought it was just me and Luke, I swear.” Bo said, trying to talk his way out of the hot water he was in. As the others hit the dance floor or the pool tables, Luke took a drink of his beer, looked at Dixie, "What's up?" "What do you mean?" Dixie replied. "With BL. First, she's drinking a beer, then she got Bo out of here real quick. Spill it." Luke said. Bo looked over at BL, his own expression not a happy one, he knew BL hadn’t had anything stronger than tea since their time at the swimming hole had gone to hell in a handbasket and he couldn’t figure out why she’d risk harming the baby now, ‘if’ there was one. He had to remind himself they didn’t know yet or he’d start freaking out again. Bo hadn’t really been going anyplace in particular and BL hadn’t said where to go but somehow they’d ended up at the lookout that overlooked Sunset lake. “So what were you fellas doing outside? I asked David and Jeannie Ann if they knew where you and Luke went but ya’ll came back before they could say anything,” BL said. “David was talking about all the extra shifts he’s been working, preparing for his own little one, then I saw Jeannie Ann and I freaked out,” Bo replied. “Well I’m not pregnant so you can stop worrying” BL said. “YEEHAA”!! Bo’s rebel yell threatened to make BL go deaf, they headed back to the Boar’s Nest to celebrate. Dixie knew here was not the place to talk openly so she tried to be vague, "BL needed to run home for some feminine products." Luke gave Dixie a blank look. Dixie knew Luke was a smart man, however, where women were concerned he was certainly having an off couple weeks! "You know the products I won't need for a few months." Luke caught on to her meaning but was still confused. "She's not." is all Dixie said. Luke let out a long sigh of relief, "Thank goodness." Dixie frowned, "Would it have been that bad?" Luke sipped his beer, "You didn't just have to talk him off a ledge. Come on, let's dance or something nice." Dixie smiled, "Alright." Bo parked General Lee right back where he’d been before, so it was likely no one would know the stock car had ever moved. Bo slid out the driver side window, then hurried around to the other side to help BL. “Hope nobody pays any attention to me, I don’t want to explain why I am drinking a beer but didn’t drink anything but punch last night and only soda so far tonight if I get caught,” BL said. “You won’t just a little shucking and jiving maybe,” Bo replied as they went inside. The tables the group was sitting at were empty, everyone doing their own thing. Bugs was at the pinball machine, with a couple ‘good luck charms’ watching. The Davenport boys were in a serious dart game, it appeared. Luke and Dixie, Jeb and Debbie, Vance and Lisa and Daisy and Randy and Coy and Casey were all dancing. Everybody was having a great time, “Let’s dance,” Bo pulled BL into his arms and held on tight as she rested her head on his shoulder. Near closing time the group decided to head back to the Duke farm. Rosco was making his last check of the night and grinned, seeing the group leaving “Ah ha I caught ya!” Rosco said, reaching for his cuffs. “Caught who doing what? We was just leaving,” Luke said. “Exactly I caught you Duke boys, all 5 of ya with the intent to drive under the influence,” Rosco replied. “Sorry, guess again Rosco,” BL said, holding up the keys to General Lee. Dixie, Lisa and Debbie all held up a set of keys for the sheriff to see. Outside they all had another good laugh at Rosco. Back at the farm, everyone settled down most with someone warm beside them and most had some of Jesse's finest to sip on. It was one of Luke's younger guys, Ryan, who spoke up, “what's with the local law?" Luke replied easily, "One of the joys of living in a small town." Dixie added, "What he's not telling you is that these guys have all out ran, outfoxed and out maneuvered him since before they had a license." How about a moonlit stroll,” Coy asked Casey, giving her an irresistible grin, something all the young Duke men seemed to have been blessed with. “Sounds nice,” Casey replied, the two headed off in the direction of the south 20. “That sounds like a good idea, bit crowded in here, care to join me Lisa?” Vance said. “Yes,” Lisa replied, nodding. Jeb took his cue from his younger cousins and asked Debbie, “Would you like to take a walk?” Yeah, where to?” Debbie replied. “You’ll see,” Jeb replied, heading for the meadow on the northeast corner of the Duke property. “Wonder what they’re all upto,” Bo voiced his thoughts as he and BL stood outside the barn with Sadie. “Well knowing how a Duke boy’s mind works, I’d say to get better acquainted with the ladies, without a crowd,” BL replied. “Now getting away from the crowd for a little while sounds like a good idea,” Bo said. “Yeah,” BL agreed, taking Bo’s hand heading in the direction of the old silver mines on the property. “Sadie come,” BL called to her dog. “Look,” Bo pointed at a distant flash of lightning. “Maybe it’s going to finally rain and cool things off,” BL said. Bo added, “Crops could use it.” As if the rain God's had heard the conversation, from out of nowhere came a downpour. It was one of those downpours that cleaned out gutters and ditches. Catching each of the couples out in the open completely soaking them to the bone. Bo and BL were closer to the mines than the farm, “come on." After making a run for it, they made it to the mines soaked to the bone. The night was hot. Bo reached up to brush the water from BLs face. One look at each other lead to a long deep kiss. BL pulled back, clearing her throat, “Bo we better cool it, we just got through one scare. Do we really want another?” Bo got a picture of Jeannie Ann in his head and heard David Doolin talking about how much he’d been working extra shifts in preparation for the arrival of twins, “No,” Bo replied. A streak of lightning split the sky and thunder boomed like cannon fire as the rain came down in sheets. Sadie whined and reared up on BL’s leg. “Hey easy, it’s alright Mama’s here,” BL said, sitting down and holding Sadie close, even though the dirt was sticking to her wet shorts, making mud. Bo squatted beside them to wait out the storm. The others found their own shelter and spent the rest of the storm getting better acquainted. Some may have gotten more acquainted than others but each couple enjoyed the storm. Luke had opened the upstairs loft door to let in a breeze while he and his bride enjoyed some much needed alone time in the loft.

Friday promised to be a beautiful day but another scorcher, with no rain in sight, tonight was to be the biggest thing Hazzard had seen since the 4th of July celebration. Luke Duke had got himself a wife a week ago come Sunday. Everybody from both families was coming from far and near for the reception, Daisy was giving them tonight at the Boar’s Nest. BALLADEER: Friends this shindig is most likely to be a real barn burner Elbert Duke, Jesse’s brother, Elbert’s wife Bessie and their boys 14 year old Jeremiah and 13 year old Jedidiah (Jed) pulled up at the Duke farm in a blue pickup, much like Jesse’s white one. Jesse threw down the pitchfork he was using and hurried over giving Bessie and Elbert hugs. “Elbert, Bessie it's good to see ya. It’s been too long,” Jesse said. “It’s good to be back Jesse, this old place sure brings back alot of memories,”Elbert replied. “Where’s the happy couple?” Bessie asked. “Well they are staying in town, Dixie’s cousin has loaned them her house until they have more permanent living arrangements. If they took today off they’ll likely be out later. If they work a half day, they might come this afternoon, Could be tonight at the reception if they work all day,” Jesse said. Luke and Dixie had talked leading up to Friday and talked with their bosses. All agreed that even with chances good that neither would get stuck at work, the chance was there. Both agreed it would be better to take the day off. They hadn't made that final decision known to anyone but work so they could spend a morning alone. Luke knew a couple of things. One every Duke in two hundred miles would make an appearance in Hazzard this weekend. Two, the farmhouse was small with one bathroom. Three the barn would be used for the house over flow and the shower in the barn hadn't been used in 20 years. He planned to be at the farm by noon to get the barn's shower and bathroom in order for family. He knew this weekend was going to be full of chaos because of him, so he needed to be there before Duke Nation invaded Hazzard. Luke smiled at the thought. He hoped Rosco was up to it. Dixie planned to go with Luke to the farm, then leave in time to get ready at the house. She was going to take her Thunderbird, but after Luke told her how the farm would be this evening she was sure Daisy and BL may want to get ready in town. Noon found the newlyweds arriving at the Duke Farm in a flurry of activity in anticipation of family arriving from far and near. Jesse’s brother Elbert and his family had arrived about 9 am, but Coy and Vance hadn’t been with the family, instead they were bringing their own car, the Duke and Davenport cousins all planned to make a weekend out of it, except Jed and Jeremiah were still a mite too young to participate in the shenanigans that might land one or more of the young adults in jail, if Rosco had anything to do with it anyway. Coy and Vance arrived in their yellow car about an hour after Elbert. Jeb Stuart and Jesse’s brother John and sister in-law Pauline had a shorter drive than Elbert and wasn’t expected before 2 pm. BL was planning to close the post office early today so she could take a shower and get ready for tonight. Daisy and Bessie had started supper early. Jesse and Elbert were on the porch catching up while Bo, Coy and Vance made the barn ready for all the male cousins to sleep. Vance stopped and caught sight of Jed and Jeremiah thinking that they were exempt from chores, "Boys, come on. Ya'll will be camping out here with us so you can come on and help." Jesse and Elbert smiled at the older cousins making the younger ones feel right at home. Bessie had brought out tea and heard Vance's comment about the boys sleeping in the barn, "Elbert, is that such a good idea? They are so young to be sleeping outside of the house." "Bessie, dear, Jesse and I both have slept in that there barn at half their age without a half a dozen older cousins with us. They will be fine." Bessie wrung her hands and fretted a bit, but Elbert would know best. By 3 O’clock the Duke farm was beginning to buzz as Jeb, Coy and Vance got ready so they could meet Leroy, their old band’s drummer at the Boar’s Nest to set up and get in a little practice before everybody started arriving. At the house Dixie was just coming out of the bathroom as Daisy was coming up the stairs, she’d been helping put the final touches on the decorations. “Bathroom’s all yours,” Dixie said. “Ok,thanks,” Daisy replied, taking her dress to the spare bedroom. They heard BL pull in the driveway a second later. “Getting to be like Grand Central Station around here,” Gloria Kravitz fussed to her husband Abner, who was paying her no mind as usual. BALLADEER: She thinks this is bad, she oughta be out at the Duke farm, it’s busier than a one armed paper hanger. While BL was waiting for Daisy to get out of the shower, she fed Sadie and packed a bag with a couple pairs of jeans,boots and a sleeveless button up shirt, so she could get comfy later and a night at the farm was a possibility with all the cousins visiting. “There ya go girl, I likely won’t be back till late,” BL said. "You might want Uncle Jesse to stop by and get her on his way home tonight. Unless I miss my guess, with all the cousins in, we'll be staying at the farm tonight." Dixie said as she set her bag down, which contained her boots and jeans that went with the top she was wearing with the long full white cotton skirt that she had been talked into wearing. When BL and Daisy went to the Roadrunner, Dixie took a seat on the front porch to wait on Luke. He should be there anytime, but Daisy had wanted to make sure everything was ready before she and Luke arrived. “Right, I’ll see ya at the Boars Nest,” BL said, getting in the roadrunner, tossing her bag in the backseat. Daisy and BL pulled up at the Boars Nest, to find a few cars in the parking lot even though it was still a little while till the reception started. Heading inside, they heard the band warming up, inside it didn’t even look like a roadhouse. There was streamers, bells, netting and twinkling lights and all the other extra decorations Daisy had bought, the tables had white linen table cloths and a flower vase of tulips on them. “Wow Miss Lulu, this looks great,” Daisy said. “Hardly looks like a bar, it’s beautiful,” BL agreed. “Thank you girls, your sweet, we didn’t do much,” Lulu replied, waving a hand toward her fellow ladies aid members who were adding final touches, before going home to get ready for the reception. Others that had volunteered to bring refreshments were now arriving. Clara Coltrane brought in banana pudding, Mable Wooster came with a punch bowl and set to making punch for those who didn’t drink and the children who would be there. Luke pulled up a few minutes early. On the porch, he took Dixie's bag and her hand, "Are you ready to do this?" "Luke, you know I've waited since I was fifteen to do this." Dixie said. Luke took her in his arms for a very passionate kiss. Gloria Kravitz as usual was at the right place to see the goings on at the neighbors, “Those hoodlums are going to be the death of me,” Gloria despaired. At the Boar’s Nest, BB Davenport arrived a few minutes early to keep out the riff raff, namely Ernie Ledbetter. Luke helped Dixie into his truck and they headed off to the Boar's Nest. When the parking lot came into view, Luke said, "Wow. It looks like the mill payday and Christmas all at once with that crowd." "I don't think I've ever seen it that crowded before." Dixie said as she handed Luke her ID out of habit for him to put in his wallet so she could leave her wallet in the truck. "Remember, when I set a glass down with alcohol in it, just slide me your empty and take mine." "I can do that." Luke said, grinning widely, "Just remember that request later, dear." "Luke." Dixie gave him a look to which he just flashed her an evil grin. Inside BB,LB and Cooter were sitting together at a table near the door so they could watch for trouble. The Duke cousins were only a few tables away, near the stage where they had pulled a couple tables together. BL sat beside Bo. Jed and Jeremiah were sitting between Coy and Vance, much to Bessie’s displeasure but Elbert told her they’d be fine, she could still see them, there was no harm in turning them loose a little. Luther and Clyde shared a table near the end of the bar, close to the back room. Jesse was a couple tables away from the ‘kids’ table but he could still see the band. Luke and Dixie walked in holding hands, stopping in their tracks to look at all the decorations. “Wow, this all looks amazing, I hardly recognize the place,” Luke said. Dixie agreed, "Are we in the right place?" She hugged Daisy. Lulu stood up from her place at Boss Hogg's table, Congratulations! Now, as mine and Jefferson's gift to you all, ... the beer’s on the house tonight." Boss Hogg nearly choked on his cigar. This was the biggest crowd he'd had in the place in years. The Dukes and Davenports alike had a good laugh at JD's reaction. Miss Lulu wasn't done yet, "And, as far as ya'll are concerned, Rosco, Enos and Cletus have the night off." Luke and Dixie thanked Lulu and Boss, who was about to eat his cigar. Jesse declared, "Well, thank you both. Shouldn't we get this party started? It's way too quiet in here." Jeb, Coy and Vance all took the hint as they sat their beers away from their two younger cousins and headed toward the mic. The band began to play as Daisy and a couple other Boar’s Nest waitresses started getting drinks for everybody. With each glass of free beer that Boss saw, his mood got lower and lower. “One for the bride, one for the groom,” Daisy said, sitting a beer in front of Luke and Dixie. “Thanks Daisy,” both said. Dixie touched the mug of beer to her lips, appearing to take a sip. Just then, she spotted her friend Debbie from work step into the bar, looking around for her. Dixie sat her mug down and crossed to meet her friend. Just as Dixie had introduced Debbie, Luke's smokerjumper crew and the girls from payroll showed up. Again introductions were made and drinks ordered. Just then, Dixie spotted her mother step in the door. BL looked up and saw her Aunt Katherine, even though BL hadn’t seen her in a very long time, BL knew who the lady was, she was the only woman there wearing heels and pearls. Telling Bo she’d be right back, BL went to say hello, it was the distraction she’d been looking for, so noone noticed she wasn’t drinking her beer, “Aunt Katherine glad you could make it,” BL said, hugging her aunt’s neck briefly. “Brandy Lou, is that you?” Katherine asked rhetorically, because she knew BL was the only other girl in the Davenport family “My goodness you look just like your mother.” “Thank you,” BL said as the band played the first notes of Mama He’s Crazy by the Judds, "that's my cue, see ya later Aunt Katherine,” BL said, hurrying over to the stage to sing with Daisy. Katherine then spotted her oldest with his cousins at a table near the door. "Cooter, aren't you even gonna greet your own Mother?" "Yes, ma'am. I was just telling LB and BB that very thing, but I didn't want to interrupt yours and BL’s talk." Cooter said, hugging his mother. "My, my, my how you boys have all grown up on me. Now son, can you find your sister and my new son-in-law in all this?" Cooter smiled, "Yes, ma'am, I sure can. Hold the fort down, fellas." Cooter weaved his way over to where the Duke cousins' tables were near the stage, sitting at the end, Luke held Dixie’s hand across the table. Dixie and Luke stood up, Dixie giving Katherine a hug, “mom, this is Luke Duke my husband,” Dixie said. “I remember Luke, from when he was just a little boy. Hello Luke, my you certainly have grown into a handsome young man,” Katherine replied. “Hello Mrs. Davenport. Thank you ma’am,” Luke said. “Dixie, we’ll get together for a long talk later, I’m staying at the hotel,” Katherine said. the last bit, hoping to see more of her son as well,while in town. Excusing herself, so the newlyweds could enjoy their party, Katherine went over to Jesse Duke’s table “hello Jesse, may I sit with you?” Katherine greeted Jesse, a mutual friend of hers and Luther. “Well I’ll be….Katherine Davenport, of course you can sit with me,” Jesse said, getting up and pulling out a chair. Dixie caught Daisy on her way to take drink orders to the bar, "Remember, I'm only giving ya’ll 2 hours in this dress. “I remember just let me get these drinks and I’ll get things rolling,” Daisy said. Going over to the bar she put in the order, taking the tray of drinks, Daisy left 3 with Cooter, LB and BB. Taking the rest back to the Duke cousins table. Going up on stage when the band finished playing she spoke into the mic “it’s time for the father/daughter dance.” As Luther met Dixie on the dance floor, Luke went up on stage, the band began to play and Luke sang Stealing Cinderella by Chuck Wicks. The music began to play, Dixie knew the song immediately but had missed Luke heading to the small stage and taking the mic until she heard his voice begin to sing. Just as the song lyrics indicated, Dixie looked up at her father as they began to dance. It was obvious that her father had heard the song or was listening intently to its words as Luke sang the words about viewing the pictures of his bride as a child. Luther knew he had very similar pictures in his own living room. When Luke sang the words about being prince charming in Dixie's eyes, he knew truer words had never been spoken as well as being just some fella trying to steal Cinderella, in her dad's eyes. When Luke got to the part that says, he gives me a hard time, but I can't blame the fella and him being the one who was stealing Cinderella there wasn't a dry eye in the room when Luther Davenport turned to Luke and motioned him to the floor, officially turning his daughter over to him on the dance floor. Over the past couple of days, Luther had been having a hard time about Dixie's elopement but had talked to Cooter, Jesse, and also Bill Mccormick, who had gone a long way in changing his anger to acceptance. Daisy went back up on stage after the song ended and Luther and Dixie went back to their tables. “Now Luke and Mrs. Davenport will have a dance, then Dixie and Uncle Jesse.” Luke went over to where Katherine sat with his Uncle Jesse, holding out his hand like he was about to escort a queen or someone equally important onto the dance floor “Mrs. Davenport.” Katherine accepted Luke’s hand, the two of them returning to the dance floor. The band played a slow song,when the song ended Luke escorted Katherine back to the table, thanking her for the dance. After the two were seated, the band began to play another song, Jesse came over meeting Dixie at the edge of the dance floor. Dixie slipped her hand through Jesse’s offered elbow leading her to the center of the dance floor, where he took her hand in his and began to move them around the floor, ‘old school’ style. At the end, Daisy again went to the mic, “Now it’s time for the bride and groom’s first dance.” The band began to play Forever and Ever, Amen by Randy Travis. Luke took Dixie in his arms and sang along for only her as he looked lovingly into her eyes. The next song was Rumor by Clay Walker. Luke held Dixie in his arms, several other couples joined them on the Dance floor, including Bo and BL, after the song finished the band began playing, Me and My Gang by Rascal Flatts. Cooter stood saying “hold down the fort fellas, I’ll be back in a few minutes.” Going over to the Duke cousins table where Daisy and Jeremiah and Jeb sat “hey Daisy want to dance?” Cooter asked. “I’d love to Cooter,” Daisy replied. They left the two youngest alone. The boys had been eyeballing the Carver girls all evening but hadn't gotten the courage up to ask them to dance. After a few songs, Daisy let Jeb know that the food was ready. Dixie and Luke were first through the line, followed by family, friends, and others that were at the Boars Nest. Daisy and BL also fixed plates for LB, BB, and Cooter, who were stationed at the door for any uninvited trouble. There was chicken salad, egg salad, and potted meat sandwiches cut into four pieces, chips, dip, fruit with fruit dip, two punch bowls of ginger ale and sherbet punch. Dixie raved about the punch, "Oh, Lord. Who made the punch? I haven't had this since 4-H meetings at Mrs. Hightowers." Lulu beamed, "That's who made this." "I've got to get over to thank her for coming out." Dixie said. "She is over with Miz Tisdale." Lulu said. Dixie made plans to go see the lady before she left as she filled a cup of the punch before anyone got any ideas about spiking it. Dixie found BL and handed her a cup of punch “taste this, what does it remind you of?” Taking a sip BL’s eyes closed and a smile crossed her lips “Mrs, Hightower’s 4-H meetings,” “That’s who made it, Miss Lulu said,” Dixie replied. “I didn’t even know she was here, I’ll go say hi in a bit before she leaves” BL said. After Luke and Dixie had finished eating, Daisy sat two chairs beside the booth up front that had gifts stacked in both seats and on the table. “Dixie, Luke ya’ll come up here, it's time to open gifts,” Daisy said. In the meantime BL had been making room at the bar to put the cake. The gift opening was underway as expected. The couple had opened 3 irons, 4 toasters, 6 coffeemakers and many cards. Then they got to the gifts from closer friends and relatives. Dixie opened a box with a very sheer trimmed in lace teddy. Jed and Jeremiah's mother jumped up, trying to cover both teens' eyes at the same time. Pauline nearly got the vapors! Next, Luke was about to open a gift from Dobro Doolin, Brodie, and Cooter. Dobro had even moved up to an empty chair near the couple for the moment. Luke had no idea who the gift was from but was addressed to him. With the paper off, he cautiously opened the box. Inside there was a RIP card on top of several familiar boxes with a note that said 'For all Lucky Night's on top of several girly books with a note that said 'For ALL the Unlucky Nights'. Luke was quick to only take out the card and close the box but not before Some folks sitting close by had seen at least part of the gift. Dobro, Brodie and Cooter all were about to bust a gut at Luke’s reaction. LB and BB couldn’t see what was in the box, just Luke’s reaction. “What was it?” LB asked. “Must have been rattlesnakes, the way Luke was acting,” BB said. Still chuckling Cooter told them what the contents were, setting both his cousins to snickering. The people sitting close were either amused (on the part of the men anyway) or shocked at the vulgar (at least in their opinion)gift. Jed and Jeremiah had seen books with girls on them and small boxes that were not familiar to them. Bessy saw and recognized the boxes of various condoms. She quickly looked away. Pauline also saw and recognized the boxes and gasped. Jed asked, "What was it?" Bessie tried to hush the teen. Jeremiah said, "I didn't see either. That's not fair. They showed the toasters.” “Hush you two,” Bessie scolded. Elbert tried not to sigh out loud, he wished his wife would see the boys were growing up and it was time to loosen the apron strings a little. It was no wonder she got along with Pauline so well, Jeb would have been still attached to his Mama’s apron strings, if the boy hadn’t spent his summers with Jesse and got to do things during those teen years. Again Daisy took the stage. “Now we’ll cut the cake and have the wedding toasts,” Daisy announced. Luke and Dixie took their place behind the bar. Jesse poured each a glass of ‘shine in crystal champagne glass (Katherine’s glass wasn’t as full as the others, she didn’t approve of moonshine). He then poured a glass for anyone else who wanted one. “Friends and neighbors if you would raise your glasses in a toast to the newlyweds,” Jesse said a few words, concluding his toast with, "welcome to the family Dixie”. Dixie touched her lips to the glass then sat it back on the bar. After the toasts, Dixie picked up the cake knife, Luke put his hand on hers and together they cut the cake, Dixie then put a slice of the devil’s food cake on a plate, Dixie and Luke each took the traditional smaller piece to feed to the other. For only Luke to hear, Dixie said, "Do it and die!" Luke replied, "Challenge accepted." Each eased the piece of cake toward the other. Both would trust their lives to the other, yet right now neither fully trusted the other not to totally smear the cake in the others face. The gathered crowd of friends and loved ones each egged them on.... As Dixie eased the cake closer to Luke's mouth, she whispered, "Luke." Luke grinned widely as he also eased the cake toward his bride. Both ended up easing the cake into each other's mouth while managing to each smear the slightest bit of the icing on the other's nose. Daisy went back up on stage announcing “now we’ll have the bouquet toss then the garter toss. All you unmarried ladies gather round.” The women all gathered near the stage, the bachelors all moved aside. The ladies hurried toward the small stage where Dixie had a small bouquet made just for this purpose. Miz Tisdale had made sure that she had a place right up front. Daisy slipped down into the crowd of single girls. Dixie managed a quick glance, turned around and tossed the bouquet. Even if she had planned it, she couldn't have thrown the bouquet truer. It landed right in BL's open hands. BL stared at the bouquet a moment, then called out teasing “You planned that, didn't you?” Dixie shrugged her shoulders and grinned “maybe I did, maybe I didn’t,” Dixie said. Daisy went back up on stage “alright fellas your turn,” Daisy said. Most of the bachelors were slow moving toward Daisy and Luke. "Come on over here, fellas." Daisy called again. She looked at Uncle Jesse for help. Jesse said, "Now, boys, get on up there. It's all in good fun." LB, BB, and Cooter claimed to be busy. "Yall can be unbusy for two minutes." Luke said. The group had assembled when Miz Tisdale nudged Jesse, "Wait a minute. Jesse, get on up there." Jesse started to protest when all his boys turned on him saying, "Yeah, Uncle Jesse. It's all in good fun. Come on up." Seeing he had lost the battle, he made his way up front, "This is for you young people." He huffed. Jesse saw Clyde Davenport still sitting in back with Rosco. "Alright, now, Clyde. You, Rosco and Enos come on up here too." Jed and Jeremiah had also managed to get up front when Bessie saw them, "Hold it. you two get out of there." Everyone was assuring Bessie the boys were fine. Daisy said, "OK, now ya’ll get ready to catch." Dixie put her foot in the chair somebody had put on the stage. Luke pulled up Dixie’s long skirt, to just above her knee then went ‘fishing’, after a few minutes, the blue and white lace garter appeared, then down her leg. Dixie had placed her hand on the thin skirt to keep it from going any further and had the good graces to blush just a mite at Luke’s fishing for the garter she had put for him just above her knee. Luke took a quick glance at the single men, turned around and said, "Alright guys, one, two, three..." He tossed the garter behind him into the rather large crowd of family and friends. Bo had turned his attention to the younger boys trying to decide whether they should move or stay when he was thumped right upside his head. Reaction was to grab whatever just hit him. Then he saw it was the garter..... Bo looked down at the garter in his hand and then thought about BL catching the bouquet, was it just a coincidence or was he being given a message. Daisy got on stage for one last announcement “I have one last thing to say, then I’ll turn it back over to the band. Ladies when you leave, feel free to take a centerpiece with you. Thank you all for coming and a big thank you to Miss Lulu Hogg and the ladies aid for decorating everything so pretty and making the delicious food. Thank you Becky Lynn, the cake was beautiful and yummy. Miss Agnes all the flowers are beautiful. Now I’ll hush,” Daisy said. As Daisy walked by, Dixie stopped her, "So can I put my jeans on now?" Daisy enjoyed wearing dresses at times and had to roll her eyes and laugh. "If you must." Luke was already standing. "I'll get your bag. Hey, Bo, give me a hand and we'll put everything in the truck." Bo joined Luke getting all the presents and keepsakes safely to the truck so that a couple of tables could be freed up for customers. Dixie got her bag and headed for the restroom to change. BL went over to Jesse before he left, which no doubt would be soon. Bessie was already chomping at the bit to get Jeremiah and Jed out of there before it was just another Friday night at the bar. “Uncle Jesse, will you stop by my house on your way home and pick up Sadie? She’s home alone,” BL asked, she didn’t want to say anything that her Aunt might make a disapproving face about. Jesse replied, "Well, sure I will, and the boys here can keep her company." "Thank you, Uncle Jesse." BL said. Jesse was just about to tell her that he wasn't her uncle until she gave him a hug and a peck on his cheek. “Hey Bo, will you get my bag out of Daisy’s car please?” BL asked Bo on his and Luke’s way out, each with an armload of gifts. BL didn’t mind wearing dresses as much as Dixie but was more comfortable climbing in and out General Lee’s window in jeans or shorts. “Sure darlin,” Bo answered. When Bo and Luke came back in, Bo handed BL her bag. BL followed Dixie to the restroom. Dixie had slid her jeans on and skirt off almost in the same motion. "That feels so much better." She said as she tucked her blouse in her jeans, then gave her hair a quick brush through. BL grinned and shook head, having just come through the restroom door, in time to hear Dixie’s words.Changing into jeans, button up shirt and her boots, BL felt better herself, she had managed to keep her white blouse clean but wasn’t going to try all night. Her feet felt better now, she didn’t know how Daisy wore heels to work, a couple of hours and her feet were killing her “much better.” BL ran her fingers through her hair. Katherine saw Dixie come out of the restroom in jeans and was completely appalled, the least Dixie could do was stay dressed for the occasion until the reception was over and everyone had gone. "Thank you, Darlin'," Dixie said as she sat her bag down on the table and hugged Luke as he stood to let her back in her seat and prepared to take the bag back out. As Dixie and Luke passed each other, Luke returned her hug by wrapping his arms around her waist, "Feel better?" "Yep, I feel like me now. Dresses. Yuck. Pooh!" Dixie said much like she had at age three. In Luke's mind he heard her protests about 'not being three' that she had made so many times long about the age of fifteen. He could not help but nearly die laughing right there. BL came back shortly after Dixie. Bo got up to let her back in her seat across from Dixie, taking her bag “We’ll go put these bags back in the vehicles,” Bo said. “Thanks,” BL said, giving Bo a peck on the lips. “I think I’ll go back to my room at the hotel, it was a long drive in,” Katherine said. “Let me walk you to your car, I’m fixin’ to head home, my brothers and sisters in-law will be wondering where I am,” Jesse said. Unknown by any of them, trouble was coming in one door as they were going out the other. “Look what the cat just dragged in,” LB said to his cousin. Cooter and BB looked over at the door, seeing Ernie Ledbetter, all three Davenports headed his way, “You need to leave Ledbetter, this is a private party and you wasn’t invited,” LB said. “Gazette said whole county was invited and I ain’t leaving,” Earnie replied menacingly. “Then I guess we’ll have to escort you out,” BB said. With BB holding onto one arm and Cooter the other, they did just that, right back out the same door he’d come in. Elbert, Bessie and the boys were in the vehicle but had not pulled out of the Boars Nest lot when a commotion was heard near the front door of the bar. Wearing wide grins, Cooter, LB and BB none to gently escorted Ernie outside and dared him to buck them. Jed was the mouthpiece, "Wow! Dad, what is going on?” “Looks like those guys have a problem and come outside to settle it,” Elbert answered his son, pulling out of the parking lot before said settlement got underway. “Listen Ledbetter, we don’t want no trouble but you gotta leave,” BB said. “You gonna make me?” Ernie sneered. “I will if I have to,” BB replied,cracking his knuckles. On Ernie’s other side, Cooter growled like a feral dog. BALLADEER: Normally, Ernie would have built his ego up with alcohol before starting trouble. Facing the three Davenport men this early in the night, he had not been drinking yet. It was not missed that he was outnumbered three to one. Outside Ernie was still weighing the odds and they just weren’t in his favor, “fine, this ain’t the only place to get a drink,” Ernie grumbled and stalked back to his car, throwing rocks as he spun out. The Davenport men went back inside, just as Jeb was announcing the last dance. Going over to sit with the rest. All that was left now was the two waitresses that were working, the usual Friday night patrons and the Duke and Davenport cousins, Debbie and the smokejumpers. The band began playing All My Rowdy Friends Are Coming Over Tonight by Hank Williams Jr. Luke and Dixie bid the others goodbye, promising to see the others at the Duke Farm. Jeb, Coy, Vance and the others packed up their equipment in record time. Dixie's friend, Debbie and Luke’s team of Smokejumpers were all heading back to the farm with the other cousins. Once in the truck, Luke headed the truck up toward Hounddog lake away from the planned destination. "Where are we going?" Dixie asked after riding several minutes. "Up by the lake." Luke said innocently. Dixie nodded, "OK, but why?" Luke put his arm around her, "Two reasons, our cousins want to get there before we do." "And the other reason?" Dixie asked with a grin. Luke replied, "I thought maybe we could balance the checkbook or something." Bo handed BL his keys, shocking her because it was usually like pulling teeth to get Bo to let someone besides Luke drive the General “you better drive, I wouldn’t put it past Rosco to think now the reception’s over we’re all fair game again and he knows I drank more than a couple watered down beers,” Bo said. “You’re right,” BL said, getting behind the wheel. At the Duke farm Daisy had Cooter, Coy, Vance, Jeb, LB and BB putting up some extra decorations she had, while she, BL and Dixie’s friend Debbie set up a table with leftover goodies, punch and shine. “If ya’ll are ok here, I’m gonna fix up the loft for Luke and Dixie, to sorta have their own bedroom,” Daisy said to BL and Debbie. “We got this, right BL?” Debbie said. “Yep,” BL answered. While the barn hummed busily, Jed and Jeremiah were still ‘watching’ Sadie, a job they didn’t seem to mind. Sadie was keeping the boys busy under the lights between the house and the barn. Bessie had seen all the young people's rides pull in by the barn but not the newlyweds. "Jesse, didn't I hear Luke tell the others that he and his bride would be here tonight." Jesse calmly said, "That's what I heard." "The others have been here awhile now." Bessie remarked. The boys had come to the porch for a drink. Elbert said much of what Jesse was thinking, "Bessie, they are newlyweds." Bessie turned about ten shades of red. Jed asked, "Dad, what does being a newlywed mean?" Jeremiah replied, "That they are newly married, dummy." "That wasn't nice." Elbert said. "I know that," Jed said, "But, what does that have to do with Luke not being here already?" Jesse was giving Elbert a grin, waiting to see just how he handled the youngins. Elbert thought to himself ‘one day he was going to have a long talk with his boys without their mother present.’ Giving Jed a stern look he said, “don’t backtalk.” Jesse nearly laughed but caught himself, he remembered these days. The younger boys asking questions and the older thinking they were dumb for not figuring it out or just plain knowing. Out in the barn, Daisy called down from the loft, to the other women “Ya’ll ladies come up and see.” Daisy had used the leftover decorations and a couple sleeping bags to make a romantic hideaway in the loft. “This looks great, they will love it,” BL said. A few clothes wrinkled later, Luke and Dixie pulled up to the barn. They both waved to the adults on the porch as they headed into the barn. Seeing Sadie heading to the barn, Jed asked, "Can we go out now?" Bessie and Pauline both said together, "Go get cleaned up and put your pajamas on." Elbert's look to John and Jesse was nearly pleading for help. Jesse spoke soft but firm. "Run on out there boys. We'll be along to check on ya directly." Elbert added, "You heard Uncle Jesse. Run along." They did. Bessie said, "I'll never get them in the house for a bath and pajamas now." Jesse said, "They can shower before breakfast." Luke and Dixie had barely stepped inside the barn when Sadie and the boys entered on their heels." "Wow! I've never seen this place look so good." Dixie said. Before Luke could say anything, Bo had put a pint Mason jar of clear liquid in his hand. BL leaned down picking up Sadie before she could accidentally destroy something in her excitement leftover from playing with the boys. “Oh no, you're not getting a chance to mess up all this hard work,” BL said to the squirming dog. “You should see the loft,” BL said to the couple. Bo said, "She's fine. It's a barn. She can't hurt anything." He petted Sadie's head. “If you say so,” BL replied, sitting a calmer dog down. Sadie was still eager to meet all the new people in the barn and went from person to person sniffing shoes. Daisy said, "We got all the leftovers for snacks tonight. There was even punch left over. We fixed ya’ll a place up in the loft." Luke took a long drink of the shine. "I was waiting to get back here before I had more than a taste of this." Jed asked, "Why would you wait to get back here to drink water?" Luke gave the teen a grin, "Son, it's far from being water." Bo added, "Yeah, that there moonshine is likely older than you both." “So," Jed shrugged. “One whiff of this stuff, once knocked a lady revenuer flat on her fanny,” Luke replied. BL was quite sure had Bo and Luke’s Aunts and Uncles not been on the porch still, this would end in the youngest Duke’s being given a taste. Jeremiah asked the question, "Can we try?" Luke replied, "It's way too early for all that, but maybe if you can keep a secret and stay awake." Vance replied, "Them stay awake, they can do it." Jeb added, "Well boys, if you ever want to have any dealings with moonshine, you have to be able to keep a secret. That is rule one." "Through ten," added Coy. Luke took another long drink, "Ya know Bo, these three may have finally learned." Debbie innocently asked Dixie, "Is that really moonshine?" Dixie assured her that it really was. The moonshine helped the censoring (or lack of it) in the stories that were being shared, some of which were giving the teens ideas. “Hey BL, Dixie, Daisy, Jeb remember when Mrs. Simpson thought the tardy bell was the end of study hall and dismissed everybody? Or when we went joy riding in the driver’s ed car Bo said. The others nodded, Jeb adding “we got a week’s unscheduled ‘vacation’ for that caper.” BALLADEER: That was the year Jeb lived in Hazzard, because he and Pauline kept butting heads. Bo added, "Yeah, but remember Uncle Jesse put us to work that week since we didn't have to get up early for school." Jeb took a healthy drink of shine, "I'd still rather carry bags of sugar and corn up a mountain for an all night cook than sit in a classroom." Jed was catching on a bit, "Wait, ya’ll got to stay out all night because you got suspended? Vance answered, "Yes, but those nights were hard work." Jeremiah asked, "How old were ya'll when you got to go help?" Luke replied, "About the time we could follow Uncle Jesse up a mountain." “I didn’t enjoy my week, I would have rather been at school,” Daisy said. “Why???” Jeremiah asked, he couldn’t imagine anyone wanting to go to school. “Because I had to scrub every inch of the house,” Daisy replied. and then added, "By myself, while the guys got to do all the outside stuff." BL added, "The cabinet shop got a good cleaning that week.There wasn’t one speck of sawdust on the shop floor at night, I had to sweep after everybody went home after work," Dixie also remembered the week. Jed asked, "What did you have to do?" Dixie shrugged, "I had to go to the garage with my Dad." Luke gave her a look, "And ended up riding with me on parts runs to keep you out of trouble." Dixie replied, "Something like that." “How come me and Daisy were the only ones that didn’t get to have any fun that week?” BL asked. “Honey lugging those big bags of corn and such up a mountain is hard work, even if it’s in the fresh air,” Coy replied. “Remember when we got caught making a run?” Jeb asked, looking at Bo and Luke. Luke nodded ‘yes’, he remembered like it was yesterday. “What happened?” Jed and Jeremiah both asked. "Tonight? Really?" Luke asked. Bo groaned a little at the question, too. BALLADEER: You see friends them boys were a team, so when they got caught, each blamed themselves. Jeb knew he had owned the blame for years. Cooter said, "Yeah, tonight. I never did get the whole story." Dixie was sitting in Luke's arms against hay bales. She whispered, "Me either." Luke looked at his near empty jar of shine and said, "It's gonna take more than this." He finished it in one swallow. None of the Davenport cousins had gotten the whole story and they wanted to know as bad as the boys. LB refilled Luke’s jar with the gallon jug they had opened. “Everything was going fine at first, Jeb was running blocker, he ran up on a road block, set up by the feds and they had Rosco helping them. He knew Jeb was a Duke so, Jeb was shook down but the car was clean,” Luke said then took a long drink of shine. "Agents Buchannon and Andy Roach didn't know Jeb, but they knew Tilley. And knew if Tilley was out, there was a Duke run that night. They got out of there quick and hit the other roads. Bo was in this old Ford of mine heading down route 7-11. When Agent Roach got in behind him, Bo swung off the road into the creek up through the rocks. By that time he yelled at me that he was getting a flat, I turned back to run interference. When I got to him, the tire was completely flat...." Luke and Bo looked at each other before Luke continued, "I tried to get Bo to trade me vehicles and get out of there.... before we knew it, Agent Roach was in front of us and Buchannon behind us." Jed asked, "So, how did Jeb get caught?" All three looked at each other, Luke let Jeb answer that. "We started the run together. We finished it together." Jeb said. Jeremiah asked, "So, Bo would have been the only one caught?" "Wait, ya'll. Who had the shine?" Cooter asked. Bo replied, "I did, that was the first time they let me run it." Bo and Jeb had refilled their jars at some point in the story but Bo had finished his in one swallow, remembering being trapped between agents Roach and Bucannon. Jeb polished his own shine off, after his explanation of how he got caught too. Coy looked at the teens with a serious expression, rules of shine making or running, 11-20 DON’T get caught!” ”Cute,” Bo, Luke and Jeb said together. About that time the older adults walked In the barn, “We’s about to turn in but thought we’d check to see if ya’ll needed anything first,” Jesse said. “Jed, Jeremiah are you sure you don’t want to sleep in the house?” Bessie said she was still not thrilled with the idea of the teens staying in the barn. “Now Bessie, let them be. You heard Jesse they’ll be fine,” Elbert reasoned with his wife. Sighing Bessie said no more about it. Bidding the young folk goodnight, the elder Dukes left the barn. After a few minutes went by, BL got off the hay bale she was sitting on. “I’m going to take Sadie for a quick walk,” BL said. “Ya’ll want some company?” Bo asked, they hadn’t had a chance to be alone much tonight, except the drive from the Boar’s Nest. BL had just planned to see if the elder Dukes were in bed yet, while Sadie did her business but a moonlit stroll sounded peaceful. “Yeah,” BL answered Bo. The two left the others behind, some with questions about the two. Jed and Jeremiah were complaining to Vance and Coy about Bessie wanting them to change into pajamas to sleep in the barn. The older cousins were trying to explain to the younger ones that Bessie wasn't used to them camping in the barn. The younger ones felt far too old to be in pajamas in front of the ladies. It took Jeb to tell them that if his mother had her way, that he'd be in footed pajamas alongside them. Everyone pictured that in their minds and had a good laugh. BL and Bo walked in the clearing behind the barn while Sadie darted here and there, never going too far,(she was afraid of the dark, if a dog can be; even though it was a full moon.) “BL can I ask you something?” Bo said. “Sure Bo,” BL replied. “Have you thought about settling down? I mean even if there’s no baby,” Bo asked then continued before BL could say anything. “I see how happy Luke is and I’m kinda envious.” “I know what you mean, I've been watching Dixie and Luke too, for that matter and I ain’t seen neither this happy in a long time,” BL replied. “I guess we better get back to the barn, before they all begin to wonder where we are,” BL said, not really answering Bo’s question. So they headed back, Bo let go of BL’s hand going toward the house, checking to make sure Aunt Bessie was in bed, before the older cousins introduced Jed and Jeremiah to moonshine. “C’mon Sadie,” BL called, patting the side of her leg. Heading back to the barn, they met back up with Bo as he was nearly back to the barn, giving Luke and Vance a nod of all clear, since they had been the ones to give the two youngest the ok, to sample the moonshine. A look was exchanged between Bo, Luke and Vance with Luke holding his right pointer finger and thumb close together. Vance returned the jester with his fingers a bit further apart. Debbie asked Dixie, "What are they up to?" "No good." Dixie replied. "That much, I got." Debbie replied. Vance had two jelly jar glasses with a small amount of shine in each. He walked over to the younger boys and extended the glasses. "Easy, it's not water". The boys took the glasses and not wanting to look like a baby, Jed took a healthy drink and promptly had a coughing fit. Vance gave his young cousin a few thumps on the back. “I told you to take it easy, this stuff ain’t water,” Vance gave Jed a smug look. “You, Coy and the other boy cousins drink it like it is. Shoot even Daisy drinks it” Jed said. “We’re used to it, we all had that same reaction as you, first time we drank it,” Vance replied. Jeremiah had seen his brother’s actions and reactions and was taking Vance’s warning to heart a bit more, taking only normal sized swallows. “Hey, how about some pickin',” LB said. “Our guitars are in the house,” Luke replied. “No they ain’t, Daisy told me to get ‘em before you and Dixie got here,” Bo pointed at the guitar cases. Getting their guitars Bo and Luke played and sang, Mama’s Don’t Let Your Babies Grow Up To Be Cowboys, by Waylon Jennings. After a couple more songs Bo asked Jeb and Vance did ”ya’ll bring your fiddles?” Reaching behind the hay bales they were sitting on, they picked up the cases, “what’s your pleasure?” Vance asked. Bo answered with just what he expected, he’d played it many times with Jeb, Devil went down to Georgia, by Hank Willams Jr. was soon ringing through the old barn. Jeb decided now was perfect for the song he’d wanted to do all night, Two Pink Lines by Eric Church. Luke nearly spit out the shine in his mouth but managed to swallow only to wind up having a coughing fit. Bo got up to get a refill, trying to act normal. Jeremiah and Jed went over to Bo, Jed held out his jelly glass “Can we have a little more, that wasn’t bad.” Bo looked to where Luke was still trying to recover “I guess a little won’t hurt,” he gave them each what they’d had before. BL looked over in time to see the youngest Dukes walk away with their ‘prize’, she muttered under her breath, seeing this it would likely be the start of something bad. A couple more songs and Bo said “BL, you ready to sing that song for the happy couple?” Everybody thought they were about to hear a love song, that is until BL started to sing the first words of Rockin Years by Dolly Parton and Ricky Van Shelton. When Bo started singing, Dixie and Luke began enjoying the song, right up until BL kicked in on the chorus, getting to the line, "Rockin' chairs, rockin' babies, rock-a-bye, rock of ages..." Dixie looked at Luke and for more than once wished she had her own jar of shine instead of just taking Luke's jar from time to time, touching it to her lips as if she were sipping it. Luke was giving Bo a look for his choice of songs. Dixie whispered in Luke's ear, "I'm gonna kill them." After they finished the song, Bo suggested, "Why don't ya'll sing us something?" Luke felt that may just be safer. "Alright, what do you want us to sing?" Jeb unthinking about the whole story of the song, suggested, "How about that one ya’ll used to sing that used to annoy Dixie's dad?" As he began to play Jacob's Ladder. All was good until Dixie remembered the verse she was already into, "It'll be five years September Since her daddy found a ladder and a note on her windowsill He swore he'd never forgive them But nothin' melts a heart like a grandchild will Now she climbs up on his knee Says, "Grandpa, tell a story, the one about me" He thinks back and his eyes shine Says, "Listen Child, once upon a time" BALLADEER: They had even been tricked into singing songs themselves with baby and children references! Leaving Louisiana in the broad daylight by the Oak Ridge Boys was the next song the older Duke boys played, by now Jed and Jeremiah felt like they had as much chance with the ladies as the older guys (after convincing Bo. Coy and Jeb to all give them a refill). Jed walked up to BL “wanna dance?” Jed asked. “I’d love to,” BL replied, smiling at the boy. Halfway through the song BL felt Jed’s hand slide off her lower back onto her behind, removing the hand BL scolded, “Jed Duke, shame on you. What would your Mama say! Jed slurred his words a might, "My Mama ain't here, baby." “Your older cousins are though,” BL said. “So,”Jed replied cockily. “So, you ever seen one of them do what you just did?” BL said. She had seen the guys get wandering hands, even been on the receiving end of Bo’s many times but she wasn’t about to tell Jed that. Jed huffed, "Nah, Mama thinks we are too little to hang out with them. But, I ain't little Darlin', that I can prove." Jeremiah piped up, "Yeah, he is, but I sure ain't." Jeremiah had been gazing at Luke’s woman team member, Lisa, from afar, all evening but after sampling some of Jesse’s shine he was feeling pretty confident as he swaggered over to Lisa “hey beautiful, where have you been hiding?” Jeremiah said with a wink. “Making a living, “ Lisa said, trying not to hurt Luke’s little cousin’s feelings. Jeremiah wasn’t taking Lisa’s subtle hint and replied “call me sometime” Lisa saw that she was going to have to be a little less subtle “Jeremiah I’m too old for you.” BL saw Jeremiah was hitting on Luke’s co-worker "oh Lord,” BL made a beeline to where Bo, Coy, Jeb, BB, LB and Cooter were all ganged up, talking cars and motocross no doubt. “I don’t mean to interrupt you fellas but you three, better rein in the boys, their feeling their cheerio’s after Jesse’s shine,” BL said, pointing at the three Duke men, then at Jeremiah still trying to hit on Lisa. "Surely that little sip Vance gave them wouldn't do anything." Jeb said. Bo replied, "Yeah, that's why I gave them just another taste." Coy replied, "You did? I did, too." Jeb looked over at Jed, still trying for Debbie's attention, "Ut-oh." He said, knowing he had also refilled them. He frowned. He had intentions of talking to Dixie's friend himself. Bo asked, trying to figure out how much shine the kids had drunk, "You didn't too?" Jeb frowned, "Ya'll never told me no." “Your Aunt Bessie’s gonna skin all 5 of you alive and Uncle Jesse will help and possibly Pauline too,” BL said. “Thanks BL, we needed that” Bo said. Bo did what Bo had done since he was two and had any problem. He looked over where Luke was at. Luke had a drink in one hand, and Dixie curled to him in the other. 'Dang!' Bo thought. He needed Luke, but he wasn't about to disturb him. “C’mon lets reign ‘em in,” Bo said unenthusiastically, rounding up the youngest of the cousins was not how he’d planned to spend the night. So Bo, Coy and Jeb went in the direction of the boys, who were still hitting on the ladies who were atleast 15 years older. Jeb went up to where Jed and Debbie were standing as Coy went over to Lisa and Jeremiah. Bo stayed at the ready to help either side if necessary. The boys were feeling froggy and weren't about to give up on their ‘missions’, giving their older cousins the ‘prize’. After Vance had given the boys their first drinks, he had made his way over to Casey in classic Duke style. He had taken her a jar of shine and planned to introduce her to it and himself. Cooter spotted trouble but didn't want Luke or Dixie to have to deal with it. He walked over to LB and BB, then nodded toward the young men and the older cousins. BB and LB were moving toward the bunch. Cooter moved to Luke, "Yall need to take a stroll”. Things were going quite nicely as they sipped their shine while getting to know each other. Vance and Casey were chatting and were just about to take a walk, when Vance saw Luke and Dixie leave. Vance was halfway tempted to take Casey out to get a little air anyway but felt he should watch the boys, even though there were plenty of eyes, with the other older cousins around. LB and BB went to where Jed, Jeremiah, Coy and Jeb had moved over to a corner, having a heated discussion by the look of the younger boys red faces. “Let us see if we can talk to them,” LB said for Coy and Jeb only. Coy was feeling a little cocky too, but backed off, "Sure, he's not listening to me." Outside, Dixie melted in Luke's arms as she let out a long sigh. Luke asked, "That bad?" "Just been tense all day. Worried about Daddy. About everyone being here and being under a microscope." Dixie tried to explain. "We can still go home." Luke said. Dixie shook her head 'no', "Not on your life. You guys haven't all been together in forever. You enjoy them. Besides, I hope they think I'm a bit tipsy by now." Luke pulled her closer, "Well, I'm tipsy enough for the, .." He lowered his voice, "three of us." LB and BB sat the teens on a haybale “what’s the problem fellas?” LB asked patiently. “Those sidewinders was trying to steal those girls and make us look like babies!” Jeremiah fumed. “Yeah!” Jed said. “Nah, they was just being neighborly,” BB said. After the boys simmered down, the alcohol started making them drift toward sleep. By the time Luke and Dixie came back to the barn, the young teens were asleep. Jeb and Debbie, Vance and Casey, Bo and BL and Coy and Lisa had paired off having nice talks, while LB, BB, Cooter and the rest of Luke's team were drinking and telling one tale or another about Luke or Dixie, mostly Luke. Daisy was with Ryan, one of Luke’s younger team members. Soon everyone started heading to find a place to bed down for the night, what was left of it anyway. Luke and Dixie went up to their little love nest, which Daisy had fixed for them. The smokejumpers grabbed their gear and set up near the back of the barn, Cooter, LB,BB,Coy,Vance and Jeb stationed themselves close to the teen boys incase they woke up and still felt their cheerios. Daisy and Debbie found a couple empty spots, leaving just Bo and BL. “Over here darlin,” Bo led BL to a corner away from the rest for some privacy.

Next morning at the Duke farm Jesse knocked on Bo and Luke’s bedroom door, about to call them both remembering Luke wasn’t there he just said “Bo chores.” “Coming Uncle Jesse,” Bo called back, he hadn’t really slept in the quiet room, he was used to hearing Luke breathing across the room. Daisy came into the kitchen to help cook breakfast “morning Uncle Jesse.” “Morning Daisy,”Jesse replied. “Morning Bo,” Jesse and Daisy said when Bo came in the kitchen. “You’re gonna call the rest of the family later and share the news right,” Daisy asked her uncle. “That’s right but I thought I’d wait until after breakfast, why,” Jesse replied. “When you call Placid County, will ya ask Jeb if he’d consider getting his, Coy and Vance’s band together to play at Luke and Dixie’s reception. I thought a live band would be nicer than the jukebox,” Daisy said. As Hazzard news traveled from the Bakery, to anyone who came in, from Sheriff Rosco to Boss Hogg, from Enos, and anyone else the Davenports or Dukes told, all who told others, ... yet the big news had pretty well not been spread all over the county until the Hazzaed Gazette hit everyone's porch bright and early the next morning. Dixie's announcement was placed nicely on the society page, but being that Norm was Luke's friend and the fact there were no other big news stories, the Davenport-Duke Marry in Chickamahoney was front page news. Daisy was the first to open the Dukes, Hazzard Gazette, "Oh, Uncle Jesse, you have got to see this!" She gushed. Lulu Hogg picked up the Hazzaed Gazette and unrolled it to get the society page before Boss got his fingers on it. As she unrolled it, the headlines caught her eye.... “Jefferson, did you know about this?” Lulu asked, showing Boss the headline. Boss hadn’t really believed it but there it was in black and white. Lulu found the society page and read the news of the reception “how nice of you Jefferson, letting them have a reception at the Boar’s Nest,” Lulu gushed. Boss choked on his coffee, hearing this. He hadn’t agreed to the couple having no reception at his Boars Nest. Lulu was on a mission, "I'll call Daisy. We can decorate. I'll get the Ladies Aid to make food." Boss saw his food sales for the night going out the window. "And Jefferson, we can take care of the beverages." Lulu more than insisted. "Oh, yes, and for the toast. You have got to call off Rosco. I just know there is some Duke moonshine put back for a nice toast, and I won't have Rosco, Cletus or Enos messing this up by trying to arrest anyone over it!" Boss Hogg was about to have a vapor lock, the more his wife talked. He’d gotten enough of a look at the announcement, to know that the reception was Friday evening one of his busiest nights and he couldn’t even charge for food nor drinks, it was enough to make a grown man cry. All over the county tears were being shed at the news. Some were tears of joy for the couple, but some were tears from totally other emotions. Some of Luke's former girlfriends, as well as girls who still had hoped to one day become his girlfriend, wept. Some of the other girls who hoped to date Bo Duke also shed green tears, knowing that their competition for the blonde's attention just doubled. Back at the Duke farm, Jesse was making a few calls to spread the good news of Luke and Dixie getting married. Calling his brother Elbert up in Tennessee, Elbert’s wife Bessie dried her hands before answering “Duke farm, this is Bessie.” “Bessie, this is Jesse, how are ya? How’s Elbert and the kids?” Jesse asked his sister inlaw. “We’s all fine Jesse, is something wrong? Give me a minute and I’ll call Elbert, he’s out in the barn with Coy and Vance,” Bessie was a mite worried, it wasn’t like Jesse to call this early. “No nothing’s wrong, just thought I’d call and tell ya’ll the news. Luke got married,” Jesse said. “What?! Why didn’t you let us know? We’d have come down,” Bessie fussed. “I didn’t know neither until he brought her home,” Jesse said. A little later in town, Mary Lou Pringle came in the post office. She'd just come from the jewelry store “Is it true?” the wealthy brunette asked. Mary Lou might have money but she didn’t turn her nose up at the Dukes nor the Davenports. BL grinned, the gossips were getting the word out, for those that might not have seen the Hazzard' Gazette yet “yep it's true, Luke and Dixie finally tied the knot,” BL replied. Jesse poured himself a cup of coffee. Sat down, took a couple of deep breaths, and let them out slowly. Daisy came back into the kitchen, "Have you called everyone?" "No." Jesse paused, "I have one more call to make." Daisy grinned knowingly, "Who too?" Jesse looked up at her with wide exaggerated eyes, "Really?" "Give Aunt Pauline and Uncle John my love, and remember to ask Jeb about the guys playing Friday night!" Jesse said to her retreating form, "You'll be able to give them your love when they get here." He let out a sigh. "Here goes nothing." At the Duke Farm in Placid, Pauline dried her hands on her apron before picking up the phone. "Duke Farm." "Pauline, this here is Jesse. I don't suppose John happens to be nearby, is he?" "No, he shouldn't be back til supper time." Pauline said. The two exchanged the "is everything alright and how was everyone?” before Jesse took another drink of coffee. The thought crossed his mind that he'd have preferred it to have been shine even at this early hour. He both looked forward to spreading this news in Placid but also dread of what he knew would follow...... Jesse smiled just a bit as he said, " Pauline, I have some good news for a change. News that should make you very happy." Though he knew she might be happy but not very happy. "Luke got married." Pauline nearly spit her own coffee out, "Jesse, we must have a bad connection. Did you say Luke was getting married?" Jesse knew that had he said "getting" married as opposed to "got" that could have changed her being happy to being very happy. "No, I said Luke got married." "To whom? I never knew he was dating anyone steady. Do we know the girl?" Pauline's mind was jumping from planning the oldest nephews wedding to was the girl good enough for him, to FINALLY! She had figured for years now that if Luke would get married, the other boys may begin to settle down. She longed for Jeb to find a good proper bride so that she could have some babies in the house again. In town the post office was finally quiet, there had been a steady stream of folks all morning, most of which were not there to conduct post office business but to ask about Dixie and Luke getting married, because they had heard it around town. BL took the time to make a call to her cousin BB over in Sweetwater, “hello”. “Hey BB, how’s it going? BL said. “Can’t complain,how about ya’ll there in Hazzard?” BB replied. “Pretty good I reckon, especially Dixie,” BL answered mysteriously. BB’s curiosity was piqued, Dixie hadn’t said anything about something special about to happen, last month when he’d seen her. “What’s up with Dix? “She’s the reason I called, her and Luke took a little trip upto Chickamahoney,” BL replied. “They got hitched? I’ll be…” BB said. “Yeah, Daisy and me, are giving them a reception Friday night at the Boar’s Nest. I need a favor, Daisy put the reception in the Hazzard Gazette inviting the whole county. That means technically Ernie Ledbetter is invited but if he shows there’ll be trouble, we can’t let him ruin it so I want you to be the ‘bouncer’ and make sure he don’t get that chance. All you got to do is sit close by the door,” BL said, seeing Cletus crossing the road heading her way. “I’m your man, you can count on me,” BB replied. “Thanks, see ya Friday at 6. I gotta go,” BL said, hanging up. Cletus came in wearing his usual cheerful grin “howdy BL,"Cletus greeted. Before BL could get a word out, he laid down the Hazzard Gazette he'd gotten from the stand outside the door “have you seen this?” Cletus asked. BL glanced at the paper, “yep, I saw it and there’s a formal wedding announcement in the society section,” BL replied. Jesse looked heavenward, mumbled a near silent prayer for patience, and began to answer what he knew was the beginning of a million questions..."Yes, we know her. In fact, she grew up with the kids. He married Dixie Davenport." It had been several years since Pauline spent much time in Hazzard. Usually, it was on a holiday so Jesse's house was full of the family so there weren't many friends if any there. "Davenport? Davenport? The name is familiar. Wait, isn't that the family that has the garage in town?" Jesse replied, "It is. You've been around her parents, her brother, and her when she was just a little thing. As much as she was enjoying watching and listening to Jesse on the phone with her Aunt Pauline, Daisy knew she needed to get to the bakery before going to work Back in town BL gave Cletus his mail “Cletus, will you do something for me?” BL used her sweetest voice. “Sure BL anything, what can I do?” Cletus replied, he like most single men in Hazzard would do almost anything for Daisy Duke but BL hadn’t been friends with her, all these years and not learned a thing or two. “I gotta run a quick errand, will you stay here and watch things til I get back?” BL said. “Sure, I can do that,” Cletus said. “Thanks,” BL said, dashing off to the flower shop. “Morning Agnes,” BL spoke to the middle aged woman behind the counter. “Morning BL, to what do I owe the pleasure?” Agnes said. “I need to order a bridal bouquet,” BL said, holding up a hand to stop the tirade of questions about to come her way. “Have you read the Gazette?” BL asked, To which Agnes nodded ‘yes’ BL continued, “thought it’d be nice if Dixie had a small bouquet to toss, maybe centerpieces for the tables.” “Sounds nice, what’d you have in mind?” Agnes got her notepad to write it all down. “Something inexpensive, the budget’s small.Dixie’s favorite flower is tulips, so maybe just tulips and baby’s breath for the bouquet and I’m not sure how many centerpieces,” BL said, promising to ask Daisy about the number of centerpieces before going back to the post office so Cletus could get back to his day. Luther had noticed Dixie's Thunderbird and Luke's truck parked at BLs on his way around the Square to the garage. Cooter had been under the hood of Rosco's patrol car trying to repair the damage from its latest swim when he noticed his father walk out of the garage for no reason. Cooter straightened up further to see that his father had walked out near the edge of the road, looked across the Square, cursed, and walked back inside. Cooter had no idea what his father was looking at until he went outside a few minutes later to gas up a customer. When he caught sight of Luke's pickup still at BL's. Cooter frowned then went back to work. Gloria went out to get her newspaper and was appalled to see both Luke’s truck and Dixie’s car still in the driveway after 8 in the morning, on a workday, hearing Dixie squeal she muttered, “Lord only knows what they're doing.” Unrolling the paper she was flabbergasted to see the headline announcing the marriage. Flinging the newspaper at her husband, Gloria declared “ just look Abner for, heavensake they aren’t royalty, just a greasemonkey’s daughter and an old moonshiner’s nephew.” Even with the dark curtains and Luke having no intention of getting up early, sleeping in for him amounted to waking up just after seven. Dixie had her head on his shoulder, her leg across his curled up at his side. It had only been two nights, but Luke was sure he could get used to this really quickly as he combed her hair back with his fingers. Dixie never moved. Luke snuggled closer and held Dixie just a bit tighter content to drift off back to sleep until Dixie woke up. A bit later, Luke woke to Dixie running her fingers across his bare chest, which kicked off a replay of the events of the night before. Around eight, Luke declared, "I'm about to do something I hardly ever do." "And, just what might that be?" Dixie was nearly afraid to ask. Luke grinned, "I'm about to go run a tub of bath water in that nice deep clawfoot tub." With that, Luke was out of the bed and across the hall in his birthday suit. Dixie enjoyed the view, then got up and found a tank top and shorts before she heard Luke from the other room. "Hey, Dixie. Do you want to come wash my back?" Luke called. Dixie laughed as she crossed the hallway. Luke was already leaning up in the tub, giving her full access to his back. Dixie reached for a washcloth and soap and gave Luke's back a nice washing just before she felt him wrap one arm around her and pull her into his bath clothes and all. Dixie couldn't help the squeal that escaped just before Luke covered her lips with his. Luke then said, "I think you are a mite over dressed for the day, Mrs. Duke." At 11:00 BL closed for lunch, Bo was picking her up to go to the Dixie diner just outside of town instead of the Busy Bee cafe. Just as BL locked the door, Sadie yapped at the orange stock car headed that way. Pulling up in front, Bo lifted Sadie through the driver side window, while BL was sliding through the passenger side. “Hey why don’t we go see if Luke and Dixie want to come,” Bo said, he’d been looking for a reason to interrupt Luke’s ‘wedded bliss’ but knew BL nor Daisy for that matter would let him near BL’s place. “Sounds like a good idea to me,” BL replied, figuring by now they were up and just watching a movie or something. So Bo drove over. Leaving Sadie in the fenced in yard, BL and Bo heading toward the house. BL hollering a warning before they went in “LUKE, DIXIE HOPE YOU’RE DECENT COS I’M COMING IN AND BO’S WITH ME.” Gloria heard the warning through her own open window, gasping in mortification as BL brazenly opened the door, walking in, Bo right behind her. Luke and Dixie heard General Lee long before BL and Bo opened the front door. They had been snuggling in bed when they heard General Lee stop. Luke looked at the clock, "I don't believe they all kept him busy that long." To BL's warning, he replied as he picked up his jeans, "We'll be down in a few minutes." BL and Bo were sitting on the couch when the newlyweds came downstairs, BL grinning like the cat who ate the canary “couldn’t help myself,” BL said as explanation for barging in. “We’re going to the Dixie diner for lunch, ya’ll want to go too?” Bo asked. Both Luke and Dixie agreed as the four headed out the awaiting General Lee with Sadie ready to go too. Inside the diner, the four took seats at one of the tables after promising to bring Sadie back a snack. “I wasn’t planning to bust in on ya’ll but Kravitz had her windows open and we all know she’s been watching ya’ll since last night, just thought I’d give her something to see,” BL said. Luke laughed at BL, "It's alright, we heard ya'll pull up." Across the diner was one of the waitresses that had gone to school with the group at the table. She had seen the newspaper but decided to act as if she hadn't."Hey, ya'll. What brings ya'll in today?" “Ain’t you heard? Luke and Dixie got married a couple days ago, so we thought we’d celebrate,”Bo said. The girl plastered a fake smile on her face, handing them all a menu, “congratulations, what can I get ya’ll to drink?” She had a good mind to spit in their drinks, she didn’t like any of them in school and that hadn’t changed. “I’ll have a sweet tea,” BL said. “Make that 2,” Bo replied. Dixie and Luke both agreed, "We'll make it easy. Just bring us all four sweet teas. What's the special today?" Luke asked. Dixie was looking at the menu, trying to decide between a couple of items. The waitress wrote down their drink order replying to Luke's question about today’s special, “BBQ pork chops, with 3 sides”. “That sounds good, I’ll have the special.Can I get a burger with nothing on it to go too please,” BL said. “What sides do you want?” the waitress asked. “Hmm, mashed potatoes, coleslaw and mac and cheese,” “I’ll have the BBQ pork chops too, with mashed potatoes, green beans and corn on the cob,” Bo replied before he could be asked. Luke was waiting for Dixie to reply. Dixie didn't think the special sounded good to her. "I want the chef salad with Thousand Island dressing, ...." Luke was about to order when Dixie said, "and the meatloaf platter." The waitress said, "That comes with two sides, but the salad is just a garden salad." Dixie nodded, "My sides are mashed potatoes and corn. I also want the garden salad." "Alright, meatloaf platter with mashed potatoes and corn and a small garden." The waitress repeated. "Make the salad a large, please." Dixie said. Luke had decided on the roast beef with Texas toast, mashed potatoes, and gravy. With the orders complete, the waitress was off to turn in the order as others arrived at other tables for lunch While the waitress got the drinks, BL asked“anybody remember her? She look’s familiar but I can’t remember who she is, I’d hate for her to come in the post office and not know who she is,” BL said but before anyone could reply, the drinks came. “So what are you two going to do the rest of the afternoon?” BL asked then added “if it involves the bedroom, we don’t want to know.” Luke gave BL a cat that swallowed the canary grin, "Alright, since you don't want to know. Next topic.” The waitress had made her way toward the back, "Bo, isn't her name Linda Kay, Mae, something like that." Bo gave his older cousin a 'thanks a lot' look. "Lucy Mae." He said rather quietly. Dixie gave him a look, then looked to BL to see if she noticed Bo might know her a bit better than the others. BL looked over at Bo arching an eyebrow in question, she noticed Lucy looked at her with a look, that if looks could kill BL would drop dead. Bo opened his mouth then shut it a few times, like a fish out of water. “Let’s talk about this later darlin,” Bo said, trying to buy himself some time. He was going to get Luke for opening a can of worms. “Why? I promise I won’t get mad,” BL replied. BALLADEER: Friends if he believes that, I got ocean front property in Tennessee I want to sell him. Luke shot Dixie a questioning grin. He had just caught Bo, and he knew it even if no one at this table would admit a thing. BL was still waiting for some kind of answer but Lucy Mae brought their food “Roast beef with Texas toast,” Lucy Mae said. Luke reached for the plate. After passing out the rest of the order, including a paper bag with the burger, went on her way to take care of other customers. “I think I should have got the meatloaf, that looks good,” BL said, stealing a bite off Dixie’s plate. Dixie playfully put her fork on BLs hand. "Mine, but you can have a bite." The crew sat into eating. Luke glanced at the clock on the diner wall, "BL, what time do you need to get back?" BL looked up at the clock while chewing then swallowing and getting a drink of tea. She doubted that Luke cared if she got back exactly on time, so wondered what was on his mind “30 minutes or so, if I run back and get the mailbag I have an hour until I have to run the mail route,” BL replied. "Ok. Just didn't want you to be late on our account." Luke said. Dixie had eaten about half her salad and was working on her meatloaf and sides. She figured she would need a to-go box but just couldn't decide between the salad only or the meatloaf. Several of the people in the diner, who had seen the announcement, had stopped by to give the couple well wishes. Daisy saw Lulu coming out of the courthouse as she was pulling back onto the road from getting gas in Uncle Jesse’s pickup. He needed gas so she’d offered to fill his gas tank, on her way to work. “Lulu, can I talk to you for a minute?” Daisy called from the truck, pulling over next to the curb. “Daisy honey, how are you and the boys and Jesse? How about Luke’s new bride? Lulu gushed. “Everybody’s fine,speaking of Luke getting married, will you do me a favor and ask the ladies of the ladies aid if they will make refreshments for the reception? Luke and Dixie don’t want anything real fancy and expensive,” Daisy said. “Of course and don’t you worry about decorating either, we’ll take care of that too,” Lulu replied. “Don’t worry about the beer, it’s on JD and me,” Lulu added “Thank you Lulu, I best get to work now, see you Friday and thanks again,” Daisy said, waving. Over at the Dixie diner Bo, Luke and the girls were finishing their lunch, Lucy Mae had given them the check with their order. “I’ll get that,” BL said, picking up the check. “No you won’t, you done gave up your house last night,” Luke argued, taking the check from BL. seeing a protest coming, he handed the check over to Bo “lunch is on Bo,” Luke smirked at his cousin. “Speaking of houses, when do you get the day off BL?” Luke asked. ’“I’m taking Saturday off, so I can hang out, while everybody’s in town,” BL replied. Bo gave Luke a look, for being so free with his money. While Bo paid, Luke and Dixie went on out to the General. “I need to pee, that tea went straight through me, here, feed Sadie for me please Dixie,” BL said, she really didn’t need the bathroom that bad, she just didn’t aim to leave Bo in there with Lucy Mae. When Bo and BL came out, Bo was being real attentive to BL. He was in the dog house so to speak and he knew it. Sadie was in the back with Dixie and Luke, hoping for more people food when Bo lifted BL onto the passenger windowsill, guarding her head from a bump as she slid in. “Everybody set”? Bo asked, cranking up. Luke replied, "We are good back here. After you drop BL and Sadie off, swing over and let me grab the truck. I'll come out and help you with the chores awhile. Dixie, do you want to go hang out with Daisy and Uncle Jesse, or do you have something you need to do?" Dixie replied, "I think I'll take advantage of not working today and go hang out with ya’ll." Bo headed back toward the Post Office.... Once at the Post Office Bo parked in front, jogging around to the passenger side, helping BL out. While BL was getting the key, Bo was getting Sadie out of the General Lee. “I know it's in here somewhere,” BL said, digging in her purse. She had her head down not paying attention and was knocked down when someone ran past “hey watch where you’re going!” BL hollered. “You alright,”? Bo asked, putting Sadie down, Luke had seen the man run out of the emporium and had already followed him down the alley beside the hardware store. Dixie had gotten out to check on BL, while Bo joined the chase “are you hurt?” Dixie asked, trying to keep Sadie off BL so she could get up. Just my pride, I’ll live,”BL replied. Dixie replied, "Good. Let's go see if they need help." She said, giving BL a hand up. While BL put Sadie in the General Lee, Dixie was through the driver's window and fired the General up. As soon as BL was on the window seal and dropping into the seat, Dixie pulled out in the direction that the guys had run after the other man. From the garage, Cooter heard a ruckus. Looking up, he saw Luke and Bo chasing a man. "Be right back!" Cooter called to his father in the garage. Dixie and BL were just in time to see Bo and Luke tackle the man as he cut across Hazzard Square with Cooter coming out of nowhere to help. Rosco was just pulling up in front of the courthouse when he saw the Dukes and Cooter trying to apprehend the man. “FREEZE,” Rosco said. “What do you wanna bet he blames Bo, Luke and Cooter,” BL said, sliding up onto the passenger windowsill. "No bet." Dixie said, sliding out her own window. The man wasn’t giving up and getting away from Bo and Luke he was giving all he had with no thought of stopping. Bo and Luke had no choice but to keep up the fight or the fleeing man would be on the loose again. Cooter was at the ready to help, but it looked like Bo and Luke had a hold of a tiger by its tail and couldn't let loose." “Quit it! I said stop now!” Rosco tried to get close enough to break up the fight but he couldn’t. Unholstering his pearl handled pistol and firing into the air didn’t work either, the man wasn’t giving up, he was determined to get away, Bo and Luke were used to hearing vehicles backfire, so they paid no attention to the gunshot either. Enos and Cletus were heading on patrol and saw the ruckus possum“on a gumbush Cletus, we better help”, Enos said. “The sheriff does look a mite outnumbered,” Cletus replied. Running over they each grabbed for a brawler……… When Enos and Cletus jumped in, Cooter had no choice. With the law trying to get the Dukes off the stranger, even though he had no idea what was going on, he couldn't let the man escape. He did the only thing he knew to do. He jumped in to help the guys hold the man from getting away. Dixie looked at BL, "Ah, geeze, there's Cooter." Dixie said. Mr. Winters, the store owner, ran up shotgun in hand and fired off his first barrel. At that noise, the fight stopped for a half a second, which was just long enough for Cooter to return the stranger to his feet. The man jerked away from Cooter, popping the buttons on his shirt to pull loose, letting the money he had stuffed in his shirt fly free to the ground. Rosco, Enos and Cletus all jumped a mile high at the shotgun blast, Recovering Rosco looked at the money scattered on the ground then back at the thief, "allright you, you're under arrest." Rosco said. Enos brought out his cuffs,snapping them on the crook's wrist "you have the right to remain quiet......" After reading the guy his rights, he and Cletus carted the man off to the jail. "Well looks like excitement’s over, I better get to delivering the mail. C'mon Sadie." BL said, turning back to walk to the post office. Rosco turned his attention to the Duke boys. He was seconds from reaching for his own cuffs when Mr. Winters began shaking the Dukes hands once the money had been picked up. "Thank you, boys. If he had gotten away with this, it would have surely hurt us." He said, very relieved to have gotten his store's money back. Luke was tucking his shirt back in as Dixie approached. "Are you alright?" Luke put his arm around her. "I'm fine. Come on ya'll, let's head over to the garage before we head out to the farm." Luke wasn't sure why but felt the need to put some distance between himself and the Sheriff. At the garage, Cooter headed toward the fridge and took out three beers and looked over at Dixie, "Do you want a beer?" Dixie laughed at Cooter. It was barely past noon. "Coke’s fine." Luther raised up from the car he was working on, "So what was so interesting?" Cooter took a long drink of his beer and then said, "The Hazzard Emporium was robbed. These guys chased down the robber." "So you had to leave work, why?" Luther asked Cooter. "Figured they might need a hand." Cooter grinned widely. Luke added, "And we did. They guy was slipperier than a polecat, and then Rosco jumped in, trying to get us off him." BL waved to Mrs. Benson as she was coming around the side of the Benson farmhouse. Next stop the county orphanage. This was the last stop on the route. Luther asked, "Did I hear shots?" Bo offered proudly, "Yeah, Rosco shot off his pistol, but that didn't stop the Ole boy. Then, when Mr. Winters showed up he shot off his shotgun." Dixie added, "That's when Cooter jerked the guy to his feet, and money flew out of his shirt." The guys had finished their beers, and with all that helpful information, Luther's new son in law and son felt it was past time for their exit. Luke said, "Bo, we best be heading out." Cooter added, "I'll walk out with ya'll. I got to ride out and help Uncle Earl change a flat on his tractor." It was a job Cooter had been trying to get out of since early this morning, but now, he'd rather deal with the tractor than his father. Dixie was already moving to the door. Coke in hand. Luke said, "We got to walk all the way over to the Post Office for the General." Dixie pulled the keys out of her pocket, "No, we don't. He's at the Square. I thought ya'll might have needed him close, so I brought him over." “Thanks Darlin,” Luke said. Helping Dixie through the General’s window first, Luke was still on the sill when Bo started moving. “Hey what’s the hurry, we ain’t being chased?” Luke fussed as he slid into the seat. “Sorry, my foot just automatically steps on the gas, when Rosco’s so close.” Bo said, indicating the police station that wasn’t far away. Seeing Gloria Kravitz bent over, her back to the road, Bo couldn’t help himself; he gave a blast on the horn, scaring Gloria, who toppled over. Bo Luke and Dixie burst out laughing once they saw Gloria was ok, shaking her fist at them as they pulled into BL’s driveway. Bo stopped just long enough for Luke and Dixie to get out of the General Lee and into Luke's pickup, then he was in reverse and heading to the farm. Luke had backed out and was behind Bo in nothing flat. Back at the Duke farm, Jesse was just finishing up bottle feeding a piglet when General Lee and Luke’s pickup came down the driveway kicking up dust. Bo parked in his usual spot and Luke parked at the front of the old farmhouse, so he could get out easy, if paged. “Where’s BL, ain’t she coming for supper”? Jesse asked as the three came his way. “She’s still working, she’ll be out in a little while after closing the post office,” Bo said. “Is Daisy in the house?” Dixie asked “Yes, she’s been a waiting for ya,” Jesse replied so Dixie went on inside, while Uncle Jesse, Bo and Luke did the chores. Dixie called out to Daisy as she went in the back door. "In here." Daisy called from the living room. Dixie saw bags, rolls of netting, streamers, bells, and other things she couldn't rightly identify spread from the kitchen table to the couch. "What's all this?" Daisy beamed, "Decorations for Friday night. Lulu told me the ladies aid would take care of most of it, but I had to get a few extra things." "Daisy. Honey this isn't a few extras." Dixie said. BL arrived a short time later, Jesse said to go on in, leaving Sadie to play in the yard,"Wow" , BL said, seeing all the extra decorations spread from table to couch. Ain't the Boar's Nest gonna be pretty Friday night? Daisy beamed, thrilled with her purchases. "It's going to be gorgeous, nobody will recognize it," BL replied. Dixie laughed at the two and thought if they went all out for a reception, she hated to see what they would have done if her and Luke would have gotten married in Hazzard or for that matter what they would do when the baby was announced. She felt really loved but had to say, "I think you two are crazy." Daisy said, "Well, it's not every day my oldest cousin gets married, ya know." Dixie replied, "Well, I certainly hope not." Outside, Bo had to say what he'd been thinking since he found out Luke got married. "Ya know, Luke, by eloping, you missed the best part about getting married." Jesse's ears perked up a bit, ready to hear Bo's words of wisdom. Luke gave Jesse a glance but looked at Bo, ready to play along, "Which best part would that be Bo?" "The bachelor party, of course." Bo said in exasperation. Luke grinned at Bo and declared, "Bo, trust me on this. That is not the best part about getting married." "I think he's got you there, Bo." Jesse said, then added, "With all the cousins coming in, why don't ya’ll plan something for Friday night after the reception or Saturday night?" BL laughed then asked "what are you going to wear?" Daisy loved to shop, and the “two Davenport females knew it so it was no surprise when she replied "We could go shopping, ." Dixie really wasn't a shopper, "I figured to wear a good pair of jeans, my boots, and a nice top." “Don’t you want to wear something really nice?” BL asked, then grinned mischievously, “some folks already think you’re a jezebel or something, I have a red dress if you want to borrow it,” BL teased. "My favorite dress is my favorite blue jeans. Besides, I got married in jeans." Dixie had hated dresses since her mother made her wear them often. BL frowned and looked at Daisy, they had to convince Dixie to wear a dress, so she could wear a garter for Luke to toss. Daisy shrugged her shoulders, she didn’t have any convincing ideas. BL realized that they were just going to have to tell Dixie why she needed to wear a dress, BL knew if they didn’t Dixie would stubbornly hold her ground, she hated wearing dresses that much. “You can’t wear the garter for Luke to toss, if you don't wear a dress.” BL said with a sigh. Dixie now saw BL's reasoning for the dress. "Ok, I have a skirt and the top looks great with jeans. I'll show up in a skirt but the minute I can, I'm putting on my jeans so I can have fun." BL and Daisy smiled, satisfied Dixie wasn’t going to put a kink in their plans and still getting what she wanted. "We should probably get this stuff put away and get supper fixed,”BL said looking at the clock. Dixie went out to the barn to tell the guys supper was ready. Luke walked back to the house with his arm around her waist. "You know we only thought eloping would make things simple, ..... Daisy has got enough stuff to decorate all of Hazzard that she got extra to go with the things the ladies aid is bringing." Dixie explained. Luke sighed. "You know I love her, but sometimes she overdoes things." Dixie nodded, "I just wanted to warn you, this is one of those times." After Jesse said grace and plates were filled with Daisy’s fried chicken, BL looked at Luke and Dixie, now seemed like a good time to continue their discussion at lunch about living arrangements. “Did you two decide what you want to do about living arrangements? BL asked. Luke saw Dixie was waiting for him to reply, "If you are sure you don't mind. It makes more sense." Luke was quick to stop at least some of Bo’s pout. "Bo, if you can get the morning chores, I'll come do all the evening chores unless I get a call or hung up." “I’m sure,it’s fine. Just don’t make me move all my clothes again,” BL said dramatically, like it was the worst chore she’d ever done. “I’ll help ya darlin,”Bo volunteered, he could think of alot of worse ways to spend a couple hours than going through his girl’s unmentionables. BL could guess why Bo was volunteering and she was pretty sure, so could the rest. “Thanks for the offer Bo but if Dixie and Luke don’t mind me coming every few days to repack my bag…”BL replied. "No, we don't mind at all. Besides, when Luke's gone I expect you over." Dixie said. “You know I’ll be there, wouldn’t want you to get lonesome,” BL smiled. That settled talk turned to other things. As supper drew to an end, Luke said, "Speaking of bags, I need to grab some stuff for work." "I'll help ya." Bo said. Everyone watched the guys head to their room. Dixie asked, "Is he alright?" BL shrugged her shoulders, Bo must be upto something but what that was she didn’t know. Bo wasn’t looking forward to being alone in this room every night from now on, he’d shared it with Luke as long as he could remember. “Gonna be strange not having you here,” Bo said. “I’ll just be at BL’s in town or the garage, it’s not like you won’t see me, you find a reason to go to town atleast 3 days a week.” Luke replied. Bo pouted, "But it's not gonna be the same." Luke nodded. "You are right it won't be, but you were fine while I was in the Marines. You've been fine when I was training and even working out of state." Bo said, "I wasn't fine, and now I'd just gotten good and used to your being back." "I'm ten hot minutes away as the General flies. Now, what do you and BL have planned? Ain't you been seeing a lot of her? Only her?" Luke asked, hoping to keep Bo from getting too far into a funk. “I thought we might take a stroll down to the swimming hole,” Bo said. “Maybe take a swim, if you can talk her into it?” Luke questioned to which Bo only grinned. “We ain’t really talked about being exclusive but she likes more than just a night on the town or going to the grange dances, church socials and such,” Bo said. BALLADEER: Friends I believe that boy’s growing up. Bo helped Luke gather up his stuff and carry it to his pickup, the girls had just finished cleaning up the kitchen and had moved to the front porch, hoping to catch a breeze. “Want to take a walk BL?” Bo asked on his way to the truck. “Sure,” BL said, getting up off the step, where she was throwing a ball for Sadie. Seeing BL get up, Sadie abandoned her ball when she joined Bo. “Stay with Dixie and Daisy girl,” BL said, heading off with Bo. Bo put his arm around BL’s waist as they meandered along, talking about this and that.“Are you and Daisy going to give Dixie a shower? Bo asked. “No probably not, Dixie and Luke ain’t got nowhere to store things, maybe when they get a place of their own, we’ll give them a housewarming,” BL replied. As they neared the swimming hole, Bo untucked his shirt and opened it “Whew, it’s hotter than a July firecracker,” Bo said. “Yeah, I had to go put on something cooler before I came out,” BL replied. She’d gone over to her house, swapping her jeans and short sleeved top for shorts and a spaghetti strap tank top. “Water sure does look nice and cool,” Bo said casually. “Mm…yeah,” BL agreed. “Think I’ll take a swim and cool off, care to join me?” Bo said, removing his shirt. “Bo we ain’t got suits,” BL replied. “So,noone around to know but us,” Bo said, grinning wickedly, shucking the rest of his clothes and his boots. “What the heck,” BL said, shucking her clothes and tennis shoes. Luke and Dixie headed back to BL's. Luke parked his truck behind Dixie's Thunderbird. He went around, opened the door for Dixie, then grabbed a rather large bag from the bed of the truck as he politely waved and spoke to Mrs. Kravitz. Dixie also spoke. Mrs. Kravitz spoke while nearly drowning one of her flowers. Inside Luke sat his bag on the stairs then pulled the shade down on the window facing the Kravitz home. The newlyweds got comfy on the older overstuffed sofa. Dixie asked, "Were Bo and BL going to the Boar's Nest tonight?" "No. No, I don't think so. Did you want to go?"Luke asked, willing to go if Dixie wanted to, but very content to stay right where he was." Dixie replied, "Nope, just wondering if they might stop by later." Luke kicked his boots off, "I'm pretty certain we have the place all to ourselves." "Good." Dixie said, snuggling a bit closer. Bo and BL were having a ball splashing each other and other antics. Bo ducked under the water, hoping it’d get his mind off what he was thinking about, which was what he wanted to do with her right now. It didn’t help one bit though when BL looked at him with her dark brown eyes. Caressing BL’s cheek, Bo lifted her chin leaning close, capturing her lips in a passionate kiss. Hands by both began wandering as the kissing got hotter, picking BL up Bo carried her out of the water to a spot of thick, lush, soft grass. “Be back in a second darlin,” Bo said. Going over to where his jeans lay, he got some ‘insurance’ from his wallet. Going back to BL, the two went back to their activities', BL was trying to be quiet although she didn’t know why, noone was around to hear. Reaching her peak she wasn’t able to stop the yell of passion as Bo reached his own. Panting Bo collapsed against her chest. A second later Bo swore. “What’s the matter”? BL asked. “Dang rubber broke,” Bo replied. "The rubber did what?" BL said for further clarification. As Bo removed the useless item, he showed BL what he had already seen. Bo Duke was cute and all, but right, the only logical thing BL could think of was to head back into the water. While trying to explain how sorry he was, Bo headed back into the water to clean up also. Both young adults agreed on just one thing after getting dressed, they both needed moral support! At BLs, Dixie had kicked her shoes off, both the newlyweds' hands were wandering as their kisses intensified. Even without listening, both Luke and Dixie heard General Lee slide into the parking place out front after being in a serious hurry to get there. Luke moved Dixie from his lap, adjusted his jeans, tucked in his shirt, and managed to open the front door as Bo and BL entered in near hysterics. BL rushed in, grabbed Dixie's hand like a lifeline, and pulled her upstairs. Bo let out a half sigh of relief when the girls cleared the room. Then, he looked at Luke with pleading eyes. “Dixie, I’m in trouble, what do I do?” BL pleaded for help before Dixie could say a word. “What’s wrong? Whatever it is, I’m sure we can fix it,” Dixie reassured her distraught cousin, sure whatever was going on wasn’t as bad as BL was making it out to be. “No we can’t fix it,” BL’s lip trembled. “Tell me what’s wrong and we’ll see,” Dixie said, still believing BL was making a mountain out of a molehill. “Me and Bo went swimming at the swimming hole, swimming wasn’t the only thing we did though,” BL said. “Tell me you were smarter than me and Luke?” Dixie said although she had a sinking feeling in her stomach the way BL was carrying on and Bo hadn’t looked good either when they came in. “W…we…were…i..it…b…br..broke,” BL sobbed. Downstairs Bo was still looking at Luke with pleading eyes, the same way he had since they were kids. “Ok, Bo out with it, why’d you two come flying in like the devil himself was on your tails?” Luke asked. “You know I told you, I was taking BL to the swimming hole,” Bo said. Luke nodded. “Well we went swimming and things got heated, one thing led to another…” Bo said. “You didn’t have protection?” Luke asked, he and Dixie were going down this same road, he had hoped this was one time Bo wouldn’t follow in his exact footsteps. “We had it, it broke,”Bo replied. Luke pinched the bridge of his nose and muttered “oh Lord.” Dixie hoped to be a comfort. "Ok. It could be no big deal. It was only once,right." BL shot her a look. Downstairs, Luke's thoughts jumped out of his mouth before he could think clearly, "Bo why, why is it that you feel the need to do everything I do?" Bo’s eyes got as big as supper plates, when he put 2 and 2 together and came up with 4. Luke swore then pointed his finger a centimeter from Bo’s nose “you can’t tell nobody what I just said. Not Dobro, Brody or even BL although she likely knows already, for heavensake don’t tell Daisy or everybody in 3 counties will know by tomorrow night!” Luke said. “Dukes honor,” Bo said, holding up his right hand, as if swearing in court. “YEEHAA!” Bo let out one of his rebel yells, causing the girls upstairs to jump about a foot high. “We may have a funeral Friday if that rebel yell was about, what I think it was about,” Dixie said, not sure whether to be amused or what. BL said “it probably was.” Gloria was still trying to see/hear what was going on with the young adults, when Bo’s rebel yell startled her and she lopped off half her rose bush. Dixie looked at BL, "Come on." She nearly drug BL down the stairs, Luke looked really guilty. "You told Bo?" "Now, now Dixie, honey, it's not like that he sorta figured it out!" Luke said in his defense. Dixie gave Luke a look. "Bo figured it out? I had to draw you a picture. And Bo figured it out?" BL cut in with a question, partly for her own benefit and partly to try and rescue Luke. “Have you decided where to go to see a doctor, since you don’t want nobody seeing you at Doc Applby’s or Lisa Sue telling half the county why you was there?” Dixie had been thinking about it. "There is a doctor that sees our inmates, she has her own office near Tri-Counties. I figure no one has to know why I'm leaving early for work or home a little late." “Want some moral support?” BL said, she gave Dixie a look, she wanted to get a home test and hoped Dixie would guess that BL didn’t want to risk being seen by somebody she knew. "Sure, but I'm not planning on going for at least another week or so." Dixie said. Only being married for a few days now, she at least wanted the possibility of her getting pregnant on her wedding night to be there. “A week?” BL moaned, a week sounded like an eternity. Dixie said, "Even if you go to a doctor they can't tell for awhile." BL knew she was right but still needed to know 'now'. "Awhile?" Bo gulped. Luke nodded, 'yes'. "So what do we do for 'awhile'?" Bo asked. Luke said flatly, "Pray." Dixie added “It takes some time before even one of those home test can detect pregnancy.” Bo looked at BL, the full consequences beginning to sink in, just because the stupid rubber broke. BL looked sick, just thinking about it all. Bo was looking a little green around the gills too. "Hey, Bo, give me a hand out here a second. Luke got up and headed out the back door. Outside, Luke asked, "have you figured out what you are going to do if she ends up pregnant? “I don’t know marry her, I reckon,” Bo said. “I ain’t the one that, atleast two kids at the orphanage might be mine,” Bo cracked a half grin. “Not funny Bo, this is serious, you don’t even have a steady job, chore money ain’t gonna support a baby and wife,” Luke said seriously. Inside BL was trying to be calm but wasn’t having much luck, “Dixie, can I stay here tonight, please? I can’t go home, the second Daddy sees me he’ll know something’s wrong,” BL said, then continued “I know you and Luke probably thought ya’ll would be alone, I promise I’ll go upto my room, you won’t even know I’m here.” "You are fine. We'll live." Dixie said while thinking that Bo driving right now might not be good for anyone in the county. Bo suddenly got a mental image of General Lee with two car seats in back. He headed further in the back yard where a small stream edged the property and lost his supper. Luke couldn't stop his snicker as he walked over to Bo, "Are you alright?” BL suddenly got paler if that was even possible, sinking onto the couch, she put her face in her hands. “BL, are you ok?” Dixie asked. “No, Sadie’s at the Duke farm, going there is almost as bad as going home,” BL replied, her voice muffled and shaky. "I can fix this." Dixie said, picking up the phone and placing a call to the farm. Luckily Daisy answered. "Hey Daisy, what is Sadie doing?" Dixie asked. "I just came inside from the porch to wash my hair. She's laying on the porch with Uncle Jesse." Daisy said. "Ok, BL and Bo stopped by and are thinking of staying. Maybe the guys will come get her in a few minutes." Dixie said. "Alright." Daisy said. “How about a beer?” Luke asked Bo. “Got anything stronger?” Bo answered. “No sorry,”Luke replied. “Beer’s fine,”Bo said. Luke came in the back door to get them and Dixie called out “hey Luke.” Luke came to the livingroom, he wanted to keep the hollering down, the windows were open and Mrs. Kravitz would love to know what was going on. Luke replied, "Yeah." "Would ya’ll mind running out and picking up Sadie? BL wants to stay here tonight, if you don't mind." Luke looked at the bottles of beer in his hand but replied, "Yeah, we can do that. I'll put these back in the fridge for later. We might stop in the Boar's Nest for one on the way to get her." "Ok, good. That will give me and BL some time." Dixie said. Luke went back out the way he came, stopping to put the beers back in the fridge on his way out, “C’mon, BL wants us to go get Sadie at the farm, we’ll stop at the Boar’s Nest on the way,” Luke said, heading around the house to his pickup. Bo wasn’t ready to see Uncle Jesse yet but followed Luke, getting in the passenger side. "Luke, you know Uncle Jesse takes a half a look at me, he's gonna know. I ain't ever been able to hide nothing from him." Bo said. Luke knew Bo was right. "Let's go get a beer and relax a few minutes. I hope to pull in, call Sadie and head back out. I'll tell Jesse you'll be out for chores in the morning, that's the best I can do. I have to work tomorrow. I'd like not to have to be trying to do chores in full darkness before driving out of town and working my shift." “Thanks Luke, I don’t think me and BL could get through this without you and Dixie,” Bo said. “Ya’ll would do the same for us,” Luke said as he parked in front of the Boar’s Nest. Getting out of the truck and going inside, Luke headed for the bar instead of their usual table, Bo followed trying to act as normal as possible. “Can we get a couple beers, Maggie?” Luke asked the Boar’s Nest newest waitress. “Sure thing sugar,” Maggie sat a mug of beer in front of each Duke. "Thanks, Maggie." Luke said, taking a $5 bill out of his pocket, "Keep the change." "Well, thank you, Luke, honey." Maggie said, tucking the $5 in her bra. Luke nodded, took a drink of his beer, and said, "Drink up, Bo." Bo didn't need an invitation as he downed half his mug in one drink, then flagged Maggie down as she went by, "Bring us another round." He said, tossing another $5 on the counter. Luke had only planned on one beer, but two wouldn't hurt. Maggie tucked the $5 in her bra with Luke’s and put down two more beers “I get off in 10 minutes,” Maggie hinted suggestively. Luke flashed his wedding ring and Bo flat turned her down, he had enough problems at the moment. Maggie smiled widely at them both, "That little ole ring is all new and all, but Maggie's here and I got a friend picking me up." “Thanks but no thanks. Come on Bo,” Luke said. Draining his mug in one gulp, Bo followed Luke out to the truck. Pulling out onto the road it didn’t take long before they turned down the Duke farm driveway. Bo was praying Luke’s plan to just call Sadie would work, then he saw BL’s car, “BL forgot her car was here, what now?” Bo said. Luke shrugged, "Keys should be in it. Grab it. I'll run blocker." Luke said, dropping Bo at BL'S car, then pulling closer to the porch. "Sadie, girl. Come on, baby." Then to his uncle, "We came out to get BL's car and Sadie. Bo will be here for morning chores. I'll be by tomorrow evening." Sadie got up and went bounding off the porch, stopping for a moment unsure of what to do, Luke was calling her but Bo was getting in BL’s car. Bo didn’t even see her watching though, so Sadie went over to Luke. Picking her up Luke sat Sadie in the seat beside him following Bo back to town. At the house, Dixie had gone in the kitchen looking for something. Neither BL nor herself had done much shopping. They had drinks, coffee, and a few frozen things. Any snacks that they had bought had been eaten. She picked up her keys and headed for the front door rather quickly. BL said, "Hey, you aren't leaving me, are you?" "No, I'm gonna radio the guys and see if they will pick up something to snack on." Dixie explained, heading to the cb in her Thunderbird. Dixie got in her Thunderbird, put the key in the ignition, giving it a half turn. Picking up the CB mic then “Little Shotgun to Lost Sheep, ya’ll got your ears on?” Dixie said, keying the mic. “Lost Sheep here, it’s Luke. What’s up Dixie?” Luke asked. “Can ya’ll pick up some snacks on your way back?” Bo chimed in this time “Luke’s got Sadie but I got BL’s car we got it too while we was at the farm”. Luke remembered what Dixie had told him, when BL moved to town and called Dixie and he’d asked why Dixie was taking icecream “don’t forget the icecream Bo,” Luke said. “10-4” Bo replied. “Thanks ya’ll I’m gone,” Dixie said, then turned off the Thunderbird, took out the keys, and went back in the house. BL sat on the couch hugging a throw pillow, right where Dixie had left her. “They got your car too,”Dixie said. BL hadn’t even thought about it, until Dixie just said the fellas got it. Bo didn’t turn to go toward Rhuebottom’s even though it was closer to BL’s, he knew Mr. Rhebottom would want to chat and he just wasn’t in the mood to socialize. Instead Bo headed to the all night supermarket. "The guys are still a ways out. Anything you want to talk about before they get here?" Dixie asked BL. BL shook her head ‘no’ “you already said it’d be atleast a week before I can get a test, so I guess there ain’t much to talk about. The best I can hope for is that I can avoid seeing Daddy and LB,and pray for a miracle like getting my period and not even needing the test,” BL said. Dixie replied, "OK." Each sat in the silence of their own thoughts until Luke's truck parked in the driveway. Sadie burst through the door, demanding attention. BL picked Sadie up, sitting the dog in her lap, she needed a distraction from the torture of her own thoughts so was happy to oblige Sadie’s demand for attention “hey girl, did ya think I forgot about you?” BL asked to which Sadie’s response was a yip and a doggy kiss from chin to forehead. Luke and Dixie laughed “I think that's a yes,” Dixie said. At the supermarket Bo had gotten a shopping basket, it had a bag of plain chips and a bag of nachos, a can of cheese dip and a jar of salsa, he wasn’t sure which to get so put both in the basket. Next was the cookie aisle, he got a pack of chocolate chip cookies and a pack of oreos, then it was onto the icecream to get a thing of chocolate icecream. Then he made his way to the checkout. Luke went to the kitchen for a beer and brought Dixie back a soda. Sitting down with Dixie, he asked, "Am I done? Again?" "MAY-be." Dixie stressed the first word. Luke gave her a look and kicked his boots off again. When Bo arrived back at the house with snacks, Dixie offered to put them up while volunteering Luke's help. "Did you talk him off the ledge?" She asked Luke. "I think he'll be fine until chores tomorrow anyway." Luke said, "He's worried about facing Jesse. I think we have a guest tonight." Dixie shook her head 'no'. "Two." “Two…BL’s staying too.” Luke said it more as a statement than a question. “Yeah, she don’t want to face Clyde anymore than Bo wants to face Uncle Jesse,” Dixie replied. In the livingroom, BL still held Sadie as if she were a lifeline. “I’m sorry darlin, this is my fault,” Bo said, he wanted to hug BL but at the same time he was afraid to touch her. “No it isn’t, we’re both consenting adults and I didn’t say no,” BL said with a deep sigh. After getting the snacks put up, Luke said, "Are we about ready to head upstairs?" Dixie was more than ready but asked, "Do you think they are ok?" "I guess we'll find out." Luke said as he started toward the living room closet. He reached for a pillow and blanket and put it by Bo. "Night ya'll. Bo, the earlier you get the chores done, the better chance of dodging Jesse. I'll get them tomorrow evening." With that, he and Dixie made their way upstairs." “Luke’s right if you're going to dodge Uncle Jesse, best get the chores done early and be on your toes,” BL said, putting Sadie on the floor, heading to the back door to take Sadie out to do her business one last time before bed. Bo opened the blanket and tossed the pillow on the couch, he didn’t know how he was going to be on his toes to dodge Jesse, he didn’t think he’d get much sleep tonight. BL, with Sadie on her heels came back into the livingroom, seeing Bo preparing to take off his shirt and get as comfortable as possible on the couch “There’s an empty bed upstairs, you don’t have to sleep on the couch,” BL said, heading up the stairs. “You think “it’d be ok,” Bo asked, even though Luke hadn’t specifically said he had to sleep on the couch.. BL shrugged “like I said before, we’re adults.” BL continued on to her room, Bo following her upstairs. Hesitating at her bedroom door, instead of going straight to the guest bedroom at the other end of the hall. As Luke stripped down to his jeans, he heard the distinct sound of a booted foot land on the upstairs landing. Dixie heard it too, looked at Luke a bit wider eyed. Bo looked at BL with a raised eyebrow, asking permission before going in. “Something you need?’ BL asked, pulling her tank top over her head. “You,” Bo replied. “No funny business, you have my word as a Duke, Just thought you might need holding,” Bo added, in answer BL dropped her shorts to the floor, putting on a nightshirt that reached the top of her knees she flipped back the comforter and covers, getting in and scooting over to make room for Bo. Crossing to the bed Bo shucked his jeans, socks and boots, then laid down, pulling BL over to him. Dixie had snuggled close to Luke with her head on his shoulder, "You know he stopped at this end of the hall." Luke replied, "Uh-huh. I'm not his keeper." "Ok." Dixie replied in agreement to let BL and Bo be adults, "But, you know when things hit the fan..." Dixie left her sentence unfinished. “When things hit the fan, we’re dead ducks too,” Luke finished. “It’s BL’s house, she makes the rules. We’re just living here til we get our own place,” Luke said. Wasn’t long before the only sounds were the crickets. The occupants of the house were sound asleep, worn out from the evening’s excitement/stress.Next morning before the sun was even up, Bo was getting ready to go to the farm to do the morning chores. Slipping out of bed, he saw BL had forgotten to set her alarm, so he flipped the switch so she wouldn’t be late.Picking up his boots he headed downstairs, pulling the bedroom door to, leaving it open enough Sadie could get in or out. As soon as Bo's feet hit the bottom step, Luke cleared his throat from his seat in the living room. Bo nearly jumped out of his skin. "Up early ain't ya?" Luke whispered. "You said if I was gonna dodge Jesse, I needed to do the chores early," Bo whispered back. Upstairs Sadie took advantage of Bo getting up, she hopped up on the bed,in 'her' spot that he'd been in all night. "Bo, you are gonna have to see him way before she can take a test. Besides, you've gone home after a night out many times. What's different now?" Luke asked. Dixie was in the kitchen out of ear shot, fixing coffee for her and Luke's drive in opposite directions. “What’s different now, asks the man who STILL ain’t told Uncle Jesse, he’s gonna be a daddy, you just eloped the same day you found out,” Bo said. Luke replied, "You are right there, but I stood up to my responsibilities and finally done what I wanted to do years ago. I just figured to let everyone get adjusted to that before we go telling everything." “Is it that or are YOU just chicken,” Bo said, quietly. Luke glared at Bo, "Being chicken and being plumb dumb is two different things." Dixie chose that moment to come out of the kitchen with three larger travel cups of coffee. "I made you both coffee, but Luke you got to let me out. I got to leave now or be late.” Dixie felt the tension in the room, as soon as she came through the doorway. Bo was about to say something when Dixie came into the room, “thanks Dixie,” Bo said, taking the cup of coffee, heading out the door. “C’mon I’ll walk you out, I got to get too.” Luke said. BL had tossed and turned ever since Bo had left her side, now she stood looking at herself in the mirror and she didn’t like what she saw. “Pull it together BL one look and everybody that comes in the post office will know something’s wrong. The whole Duke clan and Davenport clan are coming for the reception Friday and sure as shootin, they’ll know something’s wrong if you mope around like a wet blanket,” BL said to her reflection. Bo, being Bo Duke had things all planned. It was perfect, it couldn't miss. BALLADEER: "Yes, folks, it's time to start worrying!" Bo eased the General through the back forty, drifted in behind the barn. He gathered the eggs, milked the cows, and fed the animals. Then he quietly tiptoed to the back porch where he left the eggs and milk. He returned to the barn to finish up there. He knew Jesse wanted the garden hoed, but he knew he needed to head out of there before Jesse called him for breakfast. He looked at the garden on his way to General Lee. It could wait another day, Bo declared as he slid in the window. Back in town, once the others had left BL went downstairs, Sadie was like velcro walking so close beside her, BL was afraid she was going to trip over the dog. After letting Sadie back in, BL went upstairs running herself a hot bubble bath , it was one of the things she and Dixie had in common, a hot bubble bath could just about undo any stress. Leaning back in the clawfoot tub BL closed her eyes. The next thing she knew, she was rudely interrupted by the alarm clock Bo had set, followed shortly by Sadie barking madly at it! The bath water was cold, and all relaxation was gone. Once Dixie arrived at work, she went to the payroll department, which consisted of two girls about her age. She knew them from work but wasn't close personal friends. Taking a deep breath, Dixie squared her shoulders, preparing for the conversation she knew would follow. "Hey, ya'll. I need to change a few things and update some stuff." Dixie said as she sat down, knowing she'd be here awhile. "First is my address." She hadn't changed it before now due to not being how sure she was about staying in Hazzard. “I hear it, give me a minute to shut it off,” BL said as she drained the tub and dried off. Towel wrapped around her, BL rushed back to her room shutting off the alarm, Sadie immediately hushed. “No chance in me ever sleeping through the alarm,” BL said, looking for something cool but nice to wear. Settling on a light blue t-shirt dress that almost reached her knees and her white canvas tennis shoes. Pulling her hair back she pinned it up in a bun with bobby pins she kept in her purse, a little Powder and lip gloss from her purse and BL headed off to work, Sadie at her side. It took Dixie nearly an hour to do the address, name, and insurance information changes due to all the personal questions the girls had about who she had married and such. At the post office BL got Sadie settled with some breakfast before going up the street and around the corner to the coffee shop to get herself a cup of coffee to clear the cobwebs. Bo thought he’d made a clean getaway until Jesse stepped out the back door to get the milk and eggs, Bo left. “Where in tarnation are you running off to?” Jesse hollered. Sighing, Bo knew he might as well face the music, so climbing back out the General’s window, Bo said “nowhere Uncle Jesse.” "Well, get on in here and get cleaned up. Breakfast is almost ready. I just needed the eggs." Bo went in to do as he was told, "Yes, Sir." was all he trusted himself to say. At base camp, Luke was answering his own questions about why he had called in the day before. His buddy Randy being the ring leader in these unofficial questions, " Duke, we've worked together years now, and I ain't never known you to call in sick or otherwise. So what's with calling in requesting to take a 'holiday' yesterday?" Luke had known from the moment he decided he wasn't working yesterday that this conversation would happen. Since arriving, he had managed to keep the wide gold band on his left hand out of sight. Luke gave just a bit of a grin as he replied, "You are right, Randy, and I knew ya’ll would have questions. I needed yesterday to work out a few things after some events that happened Sunday." Luke paused, "One of the things is there's a party Friday night in Hazzard. Ya’ll are invited to meet Mrs. Duke." At that point, he waved his left hand. His crew broke out in a wave of congratulations, questions, and all-out pandemonium. One of the girls from HR asked, “is she the same girl that came to watch the jumps with your family?” Luke nodded ‘yes’. BL was just starting to sort the mail into two piles ‘delivery’ and P.O. Boxes, when she saw her Dad pull up and head inside, likely on his way to the cabinet shop, “was hoping to not see him til later,” BL muttered to herself. Clyde came in and propped on the counter, watching his daughter sort the mail. “Well atleast your still alive, not that I’d know, since you didn’t call to say you wasn’t coming home last night,” Clyde said. “Sorry Daddy, I stayed with Dixie and Luke, we lost track of time, it was real late so I stayed with them, just forgot to call,“ BL replied. Clyde grunted “have you got the cabinet shop mail ready, I gotta get going and open up.” BL handed Clyde a couple envelopes, “you want the house mail too, won’t take me long to sort it from the rest,” BL said. “Can’t wait, got a job to go look at, out at the Hobson farm, see you tonight,”Clyde said, on his way out Bo put eggs and bacon on his plate and after grace was said he dug into the eggs and bacon, hoping if his mouth was full that he wouldn't have to talk much. Luke gave everyone the details of the reception, and then the Smokejumpers got to work with their newbies. Dixie chose to invite only her former roommate to the reception. She was close to the tri counties workers and only kept in touch with Debbie from the old place.

Thank you for the kind words Roger and Hobie but I don't deserve all the credit. I have a wonderfully talenred coauthor in Dixie Davenport. I forgot to include that in my beggining note (sorry Dixie)

NOTE: The names Pauline and John Duke are the names of Jeb Duke’s parents but they are not the characters of the same names created by JadedPhoenixBurning and Dixie Davenport. Bo parked Luke's truck behind the Boar's Nest, he'd never hear the end of it, if there was one little ding or scratch when he returned it to Luke. Going around to the passenger side, opening the door, putting an arm around her shoulders, as they went around to the door. "Why'd you park in back?" BL asked, then continued "plenty parking here in front, it's Sunday." Bo moved his arm, guided BL inside with a hand at the small of her back "one little ding or scratch and Luke would kill me," Bo replied. “Yeah, you are right. I see your point” BL said as they walked into the bar. Daisy had just taken over for her friend when she saw Bo and BL heading toward a back table. Meanwhile, at still site 4, Luke had not been at all expecting Dixie's gift box, its contents nor all it implied. He knew he was going to have to say something, but at the moment, he was trying hard just to breathe. Dixie was still crying, "See, this is all wrong." Luke gently pulled Dixie down to his level. " No, no, it's not. We can head over to Chickamahoney tonight, right now. We’ll surprise everyone in the morning, then in a couple weeks, we can surprise them again." Dixie replied in tears, "I won't trap you, Luke Duke." "It seems to me I asked before you told me." He moved in for a long, deep kiss. Dixie melted against Luke as they kissed passionately. At the Boar’s Nest, Daisy brought Bo and BL a beer, knowing they’d want one, “Where’s Luke and Dixie?” Daisy asked, putting the beers on the table, it was unusual to see one couple without the other. Both BL and Bo shrugged their shoulders, “Luke traded me keys tonight, said Dixie wanted to ‘get lost’ for a while,” Bo said. BL knew why Dixie wanted to ‘get lost’ with Luke but she couldn’t say, that was for Dixie to tell ‘if’ she wanted, her news would show itself in a few months anyway whether Dixie was ready to tell or not. “I better get back to work before Boss catches me,” Daisy said, then went back to the bar. BL sipped her beer wondering how things were going with Dixie and Luke. Luke had pulled Dixie even closer as the kiss intensified. He could feel every part of her melting in his arms. There wasn't anything he wanted right now more than for them to continue this moment, but he knew better. With every ounce of willpower he could muster up, Luke broke the kiss, helped Dixie to her feet, and started off for General Lee. He smiled at the sight of the old car in the moonlight that was so much more than just a car. He was a friend, family even, and yes, Dixie had chosen tonight's transportation perfectly. He helped her through the window, got in and cranked up the General's still powerful engine. Once at the road, Luke looked at Dixie, then turned toward Chickamahoney. Back at the Boar’s Nest, Cooter had just come in and sat down at the table with BL and Bo asking “where’s Luke and Dixie?” Bo told him the same as he’d told Daisy. Daisy came over, “hey, want a beer sugar?”Daisy asked. “Ya’ll want a refill”, she asked Bo and BL, getting three ‘yes’s; she brought the drinks over. The three friends talked awhile, Cooter only having the one beer before getting a wrecker call, “sorry I got to run out on ya’ll like this but old man Rich ran in a ditch.” Cooter said. Left alone again Bo got up, holding out a hand “wanna dance?” BL nodded ‘yes’, taking Bo’s hand, heading to the dance floor. Cooter managed to get old man Rich out of the ditch, but not without getting muddy. By the time Cooter got home he figured everyone would be paired up and heading out by the time he made it back to the Boar's Nest. He picked up the phone and told Bessie Mae who was working the switchboard tonight that he had the wrecker and was home for the night unless he got a call from her or the CB. Luther was still up reading the paper when he heard Cooter's phone conversation. It was a bit early for Cooter to be in. "So, why are you home so early?" "Old man Rich got himself stuck in a ditch." He motioned to his muddy work pants, "I needed to clean up before going back out, but figured it would be too late by then." "Any chance your sister may be thinking of heading here tonight?" Luther asked. Cooter shrugged his shoulders, "I don't know. I haven't seen her tonight." Luther gave him a questioning look. Cooter told his father the rest of what he knew. "Bo had Luke's truck tonight. He said Luke told him that Dixie wanted him to take General Lee....." He paused before finishing Bo's statement. A bit lower, he said, "So they could ‘get lost’ awhile." Luther dropped his paper a bit, looking over the top of it. Cooter added, "That's what I was told." Luther mumbled something under his breath. Cooter decided the tub was calling him. Luther had lightened up on Dixie and Luke a couple weeks ago after unknown to anyone but them, he had been approached by Bill McCormick. They had talked a couple of hours one day at the Boar's Nest when it had only been the two of them and the bartender. Bill had asked Luther if they could have a conversation. He had been the father of a young girl who dated Luke on and off for several years. Bill had very much been against the idea, but found Luke grew on him. By the time young love had crashed and burned for the last time, he had to admit that he had missed having the young man around. After his daughter became involved with and then married Luke's high school football rival, Bill had to also admit that he would have much rather had the young Duke as a son in law. He frankly told Luther that Dixie could do far worse for herself. Luther was still looking at the paper but had no idea what it said. He was thinking back years ago when Luke had been so much a part of his garage, wrecker service, and his own family. He had been so set on protecting his daughter that he drove both her and Luke away. Had he been so wrong back then. Was he wrong now, that seeing them together grated on his last nerve? At the Duke Farm, Jesse closed his own paper, went to the kitchen and turned off the stove under the coffee pot, turned on the back porch light and cut off all the other lights except the night light of the kitchen. He took the last cup of coffee to his room where he planned to read his Bible a bit before turning in. At the Boar’s Nest, BL pulled Bo back toward their table, “let’s sit this one out, I’m plumb wore out”, BL said. “Alright”’, Bo said. Someone kept selecting one good song after another on the jukebox. The couple finished their beers while they talked about the fall harvest dance coming up in a couple months. BL looked at her watch seeing that it was getting late “we better go, I got to work tomorrow and Sadie’s going to think I abandoned her,” Bo and BL went out to Luke’s truck, Bo helping her in, then getting in behind the steering wheel. BL then slid across the seat next to him. Bo cranked up, putting his arm around BL as he drove back to the farm so BL could get her car. At the Duke farm, Jesse heard Luke’s F250 pickup but he wouldn’t do more than doze until he heard Daisy come home from work and General Lee, then he would be able to sleep better knowing all his ‘kids’ were home safe. “Looks like Uncle Jesse’s done gone to bed,” BL said, seeing the dark farmhouse. “Yeah, so guess I’ll see you tomorrow after work at the Boar’s Nest.” Bo said. “Don’t know if I’ll make it to town before then, that storm we had last night blew some trees on the fences close to the house, got to check the rest, remove trees and start mending the fences tomorrow,” Bo said. BALLADEER: See Uncle Jesse don’t work on Sunday except the daily chores that have to be done because Sunday's a day of rest. “I’ll see ya after work then,” BL replied, Bo leaned in for a long kiss before BL got in her GTO heading home. She had seen Dixie’s Thunderbird still at the Duke farm but just figured her cousin and Luke wasn’t back yet. She hoped Dixie was off tomorrow or her tail would be dragging at work. Several hours ago, Luke had felt each one of the landings he had made and wanted nothing more than to stay home. Now, it was the wee hours of the morning. Dawn was due in about an hour. He now felt about seventeen as he turned the General Lee into the Duke drive and promptly cut the engine at just the right spot to drift into his normal place. Luke got out, checked his truck hood, it was cold, he then helped Dixie out and stopped her as she headed toward the back door and the porch light. Luke held his finger to his lips, took her hand as he led her around the front of the house and to the window of his and Bo's room. Luke peered through the window. Bo was asleep and turned toward the door in his normal sleeping position. Luke eased the window up, stepped inside, checked Bo, and he hadn't moved. He then helped Dixie in the window. Once inside both their hands began to wander as clothes were discarded. Dixie had the forethought to take claim of Luke's discarded T-shirt. Luke pulled his covers back, getting into the twin bed facing away from Bo. For once he was glad that Bo could sleep through a train driving through their room and never wake up. He pulled Dixie in beside him and covered them both. As he figured it, they had about an hour to snuggle before the roof came off the house. Pulling in her driveway BL halfway thought Dixie and Luke might be here but the porch light was off and inside the house was dark too. Going inside BL was greeted by Sadie spinning in circles, tail wagging 90 miles an hour, “Hey girl! Did you miss me?” BL said as she got down on her knees petting the excited dog. After a few minutes, BL went down the hallway to take a shower, Sadie at her heels. After a hot shower, BL left the bathroom light on, so Dixie wouldn’t fall and break her neck when she did come in. Getting ready for bed, BL read her latest book for a bit, to unwind. Putting her book on the nightstand, turning out the lamp and hugging Sadie BL wondered where Dixie was. A few hours later BL got up to go to the bathroom, the light was still on, which meant Dixie still wasn't home.Taking care of business, BL went to the living room, it was too early to get ready for work but she knew there would be nomore sleep for her. Sadie sensed her master’s worry and hopped up on the couch, laying her head in BL’s lap, “Think I should call Luke, see if he knows where Dixie is?” BL received a groan from Sadie as if the dog was saying ‘not your best idea.’ At the Duke farm, Jesse Duke put the coffee on, expecting Luke to be heading out to start the chores. When Luke didn’t appear after 5 minutes, Jesse went to the boys room to check on them. Knocking before opening the door Jesse saw the discarded clothing, some of which was women’s “WHAT IN SAM HILL IS GOING ON HERE?!!” Daisy heard Uncle Jesse's bellow across the hallway. She jumped up, grabbed her robe and opened her door. She saw the door to the boys room open and stepped to the door. Bo was moving on instinct only as he was not fully awake. He had jerked his covers off and nearly jumped out of his own skin. He had set up facing the door and was now scrambling to pick up his jeans, shirt and boots. Why he wasn't sure but felt like he was late for something. Right now Luke rethinking last night's decision to come home. He had expected to be woken up by Jesse and have a lot of explaining to do, but Jesse Duke was awake, his dander was up and he was off on a rant. Luke had also sat up on his side of the twin bed facing Bo's bed. Glad that he had put on pajama bottoms, he also began gathering his clothes while trying to get a word in Jesse's rant. Dixie had thought Luke's plan wasn't a great idea, but she had gone along with it. They both knew everyone would have a good laugh about this later, after Jesse calmed down. She had on Luke's t-shirt that was a bit roomy on her. She took the blanket with her as she slid her jeans on and then turned to watch Luke try to explain things to Jesse. "You all know I don't run no brawdy house here. Ya'll may not have had a curfew in years, but this is still my house, Luke I ought to take you to the barn and I still might! You know I have never held to ya’ll messing around..... After trying to get a word in several times, Luke reached behind him and took Dixie's left hand and held her hand up with his left hand. The new gold bands sparkled across the dimly lit room. Jesse’s rant stopped cold, when Luke held up his and Dixie’s left hands. “You're married!!” Daisy squealed with excitement. Bo couldn’t get out of the room with Uncle Jesse and Daisy standing in the doorway, so when Uncle Jesse hushed, he turned back toward Luke, seeing the new gold rings just as Daisy squealed. BL decided to drive out to Hounddog lake, just as the sky was beginning to lighten “c’mon Sadie let’s go for a ride. Gloria Kravitz had gotten used to the Davenport girls coming and going, she had even learned what both cars sounded like, so hearing BL leave so early she wondered aloud “I wonder where she’s going this early? It ain’t time for the post office to open. BL drove out to Hounddog lake, the sun just beginning to peek over the trees, any other morning she would have taken in the beauty but today she was preoccupied, no sign of General Lee here either. BL didn’t know what to do now as she drove around to a few more places looking for Dixie, she didn’t want to raise the alarm by calling Dixie or Luke on the CB and calling the Duke farm on the telephone would only get the gossip mill going. Bo was still not awake fully. He processed the information just a bit slower than Daisy had but finally said, "Luke? Really? Married?? Really ya'll got married??" Luke knew it would take more than the rings to convince Jesse. He had already reached in his pocket for an unofficial copy of the marriage license that he handed to Jesse as he grinned mischievously at Bo and replied, "Yep. That there is the unofficial copy. Reverend Frawley, said he'd have this one registered today at the courthouse." Jesse looked at the paper in his hand. This was a day he never thought he would see. Here one of his boys had finally at least started to prove him wrong. Jesse had been certain that the chances of any of them settling down and starting a family was about the same chance as hogs producing beef. "Well, now, Lucas we might just forget about that trip to the barn, but we's still gonna have ourself a talk later. Unless ya'll forgot, we still have a farm to run here and don't you two married people have jobs to get to?" "No, Sir, we fixed that last night. After chores and breakfast, we still have another whole side of the family to tell." Luke remembered. Dixie had gathered the rest of her clothes and was trying to make her way to the bathroom, "I'll just step across the hall so these guys can get dressed then I'll come help you and Daisy fix breakfast." Jesse headed for the kitchen, closing the bedroom door behind himself. Daisy hurried back to her room thinking about what all was needed for a small reception/get-together for the two families. Dixie came out of the bathroom and went to the kitchen to help with breakfast. Jesse smiled at Dixie “well welcome to the family,” Jesse said. "I told him that wasn't the best way to tell ya'll." Dixie said. "Well, now, I handle that." Jesse said with a bit of a grin. Dixie couldn't help herself, "You know there were times I thought this day would never happen." Jesse handed her a cup of coffee, "Truer words have never been spoken." Once they were alone in their room, Bo was now more awake and trying to catch up. "Luke you really got married? Bo asked, he still couldn’t believe it, even though Luke had shown Uncle Jesse the marriage license. “Yes Bo, I really got married,” Luke replied. “Why all the sudden?” Bo knew Luke liked Dixie, maybe loved her but he didn’t think Luke was ready to settle down yet. You said that day a while back, when me, Daisy, Cooter and BL thought ya’ll went to Chickamahoney hat we’d all be the first to know,” Bo reminded Luke. “We’re telling ya first ain’t we?” Luke replied. “Yeah, ” Bo said but what he’d meant was they all wanted a heads up, so they could go too as the witnesses. “Didn’t want to wait another day, I love her Bo,” Luke answered Bo’s question about ‘why so sudden’ truthfully without telling their other reason just yet. Luke wanted it to look like Dixie got pregnant soon after the wedding. "Come on Bo, let's get at it so we can catch Luther and Cooter before the garage fills up." Luke said. He looked forward to this conversation with his new father-in-law like he would a root canal. BL was still out driving around looking for Dixie and Luke, since it was still a while before she needed to go back to town and open the post office. As she neared the eDuke farm, the General Lee’s one of a kind paint job could be seen from the road. “How about we get some answers, huh girl?" BL said, turning the steering wheel hard, pulling in the driveway and parking beside Uncle Jesse’s pickup truck. “C’mon Sadie,” BL had just opened the back screen door, when Bo and Luke came out the kitchen door. “Mornin Darlin, whatcha doing out this early?” Bo asked giving BL a kiss. The “Looking for our cousins, Dixie still wasn’t home when I went to bed. I wasn’t worried until I got up to go to the bathroom in the wee hours and she still wasn’t home,” BL said. “Bo let’s go back inside a minute,” Luke said as he purposely slid his left hand in his pocket. Bo grinned wild. Chores put off a few minutes and now that he was fully awake, he wouldn't miss this for the world. "Sure. This ought to be great!" BL looked at Bo's unusual reaction, "What should be great?" Luke just guided her toward the kitchen. Sadie followed them back through the screen door but stayed on the screened porch. She didn’t normally go in the house, not because Uncle Jesse said ‘no’ but because BL respected the fact he never had, had other animals inside his house. “Mornin sugar, ain’t it a great day?” Daisy chirped. “Mornin’ Daisy” BL replied wondering why Daisy was so perky, this early. “What’s up? You didn’t come home last night Dix,,,I waited up for a bit, just thought maybe you and Luke lost track of time but when I woke up in the wee hours and you still wasn’t home, I was worried and I been sitting on the couch waiting for it to start getting light, so I could go looking for ya.” BL may not have raised her voice but they all knew she was fussing just the same. "I'm sorry for worrying you. It was really late when we got here." Dixie began as Luke moved around behind her chair. Dixie continued, "I don't think I'm gonna be staying there as much anymore." BL looked confused. Even though she knew Dixie's secret, she was still thinking about losing sleep worrying about Dixie. Dixie smiled up at Luke, then back to BL before she said, "I think this might make things clearer." She handed BL her pretty copy of the marriage certificate and waited..... BL stared at the marriage certificate a full minute without saying a word, smiling big at the newly weds “congratulations! So this is why you didn’t show up at all at the Boar’s Nest? Me, Bo and Cooter thought you might come late, BL said. “Yep that’s why” Dixie replied, “Have you had breakfast?” Jesse asked. “No sir, I was too worried,” BL replied. “Daisy set another place”, Jesse directed, it wasn’t exactly an invite BL could turn down, Jesse Duke had spoken. “Yes sir, Uncle Jesse,” Daisy said, setting another place. Everyone sat down to eat after the three girls got it on the table. Talk centered around the newlyweds, Daisy was only slightly disappointed at not being able to plan a wedding but was content with a family gathering of the two families in the evening “what kind of cake do ya’ll want? I need to get some things from Rheubotttom’s and I can by the bakery and get a cake while I’m in town.” Daisy said a mental list of things she needed from Rhuebottom’s. “Just a yellow cake’s fine Daisy, right Darlin? “ Luke replied. “I have something to ask.” BL said, the Dukes all looked at her. “I know you ain’t got a place of your own yet and livin here will be kind of cramped, so how about my house in town?” BL saw both of the newlyweds getting ready to protest that they couldn’t take her house, so she held up a hand to stop them. “It’d be temporary, I’m sure you want to stay here on Duke land, Luke but as I said this house would be cramped. My house is all furnished and I don’t mind moving back in with Daddy. Both Luke and Dixie knew how much BL's house meant to her. Luke also knew Dixie was waiting for him to answer, so he did. "How about we accept your offer tonight after we go have a conversation with the Davenport half of this family? That will give us all a little time to work out the logistics. And, Daisy, before you go buying up half of Hazzard, can you give me a running start. You go out buying cakes, and the phone lines are gonna melt." Jesse gave him a stern look, "How fast do you think they are gonna melt when Reverend Frawley registers that marriage certificate at the Placid County Courthouse. You know Jeb's mama has spys stay on alert over there for anything involving a Duke. News like this ain't gonna keep long." Luke replied, "Jesse's right ya’ll. Come on Dixie.....Let's get this over with." BALLADEER: Now friends everyone in that room understood Luke's dread at sharing his and Dixie's happy news. “Ok that sounds like a good plan, I’ll go pack a bag at lunchtime and drop it off at Daddy’s when I deliver the mail.” BL said, looking at her watch. “I got to get to work…so I’ll be right behind ya’ll, I can call backup if Luther tries to kill ya,” BL grinned cheekily. “Cute BL,” Luke said. He and Dixie headed out, BL and a not so happy Bo following them outside. “I’ll see ya this evening Darlin;,” Bo kissed BL on the forehead, “See ya later Bo,” BL replied, getting in her car heading toward town as Bo went to the barn to do the chores alone. In town, like most work days, Luther Davenport pulled up to the garage a bit before eight. He unlocked the office, then the bay doors, and then put on a pot of coffee in his automatic coffee maker. It wasn't like perked, but the time it saved him at work was worth it. Cooter had gotten in early last night, so when he pulled in about the time the coffee was done, Luther wasn't surprised. Usually, Cooter was a mite late if he'd had wrecker calls. Luke and Dixie were in his pickup. Luke hoped to get to the garage before it opened, but with BL stopping by, he was a bit later than he wanted to be. As he pulled into town square, Luke had an idea and stopped short of the garage at the bakery. Dixie looked confused, "Luke, what are you doing?" Luke cracked a smile. "It's been a while since I had donuts and beer for breakfast." Dixie shook her head and ran into the bakery. A few minutes later, she came out with a box of assorted doughnuts and a small bag. Luke knew but had to ask, "What's in the bag?" "These are mine. Holes." Dixie said as she was already opening the bag. Luke pulled in at the garage. Out of the way of customers. When Cooter and Luther saw where Luke parked, they knew he wasn't there as a customer. "Hey there, Luke, Dixie. What are you doing in town?" Cooter asked. Luther had turned his attention back to setting his register up. Luke set the box of doughnuts on the counter by the register, went to the fridge and grabbed three beers. He tossed one to Cooter, then set the other between Luther and the box of doughnuts. He opened his beer and leaned up against the car that was already parked in the bay, much like he would have done on any Saturday morning when he hung out at the garage as a teen. Dixie had taken her spot on a tall stool that had been at the garage since she was little. She just happened to be sitting between Luther and Luke as she was munching on the doughnut holes. Luke took a sip of his beer as he watched Cooter grab his first choice of the doughnuts and open his beer. While the box was open, Luther reached for his choice, knowing if he didn't get his pick now that it wouldn't be there later. Luke now answered Cooter’s question, "We were out pretty late last night, so we both took a day today." Luther frowned a bit at both Luke and Dixie, calling off work for being out late. He'd known Luke to work for him, run moonshine at night, and plow a field the next day before lunch. Cooter also gave him a frown, thinking much like his father, but said, "wait, ya'll didn't come out to the Boar's Nest last night." "No, we didn't." Luke said, keeping his tone light, "Instead, we went for a drive." He paused for a drink of beer. "Ya know, there are still a lot of back roads in this county. We rode around and did a lot of talking. One thing led to another, and the next thing you know, we popped out of the woods right in Chickamahoney. At the post office BL was just unlocking the front door and raising the window shade when she saw Luther arrive at the garage. Flipping over the ‘open’ sign on the door, BL stepped out onto the sidewalk at the same time Luke and Dixie pulled into the garage parking lot and parked out of the way of customers. BL’s attention though was shifted from what was happening at the garage, when the mail truck arrived. “Morning Joe,” BL greeted the driver as he lifted the truck’s rear door, climbing inside, getting the mail bag. “ Good Morning Miss Davenport,” Joe replied. “See you tomorrow Miss,” Joe got back behind the mail truck’s steering wheel, heading to his next stop. Taking the mail back inside BL continued getting everything ready to start the day, while sort of watching for any signs of a commotion over at the garage. Luke took a sip of beer to see if that got any reaction. All he noted was Dixie's eyes widened at the mention of Chickamahoney. Cooter said, "Man, that was a long ride through the woods. Did ya take that old road out across Iron Mountain.?" Luke knew the one. "I know that one, but remember, we was in the General Lee. We took the one out by Hounddog lake." Cooter reached for another doughnut and nodded with his mouth full. Luther was checking his inventory. Luke continued, "While we was over that way. We decided to make a stop." Cooter added, "If yall left after supper, there couldn't have been much open." This slow, easy, seemingly ideal conversation between Luke and her brother was about to drive Dixie nuts, but she figured that Luke knew what he was doing. "This place is open most all the time, Cooter." Luke said, finishing his beer and reaching for Cooter and him a refill. Luther added, "Nothing much over there to be open except a couple of those wedding chapels." Thinking of their past, Dixie held her breath. "Yep, that's a fact. There are a few of them over there." Luke confirmed. Cooter asked, "Yeah, but where did ya'll stop? They ain't got a new all night café open over there, do they?" "Not that I saw Cooter." Luke said. He loved his buddy. Well, his brother-in-law now. “"The fact is, ..." Another sip of beer, "We decided to pay Reverend Bachman a little visit." “REVEREND Bachman!” Luther nearly choked on his doughnut. Dixie could see this spiraling downhill fast but the newlyweds were given a short reprieve as someone pulled up at the pumps and Mr. Peabody drove up to get the tractor part he needed, that Luther had gotten for him. “Thank ya Luther,” Mr. Peabody said, taking the part Luther handed him. Dixie took this time of distraction to get herself a coke out of the fridge, since Luke had forgot to get her a drink before. Luther had nearly choked on his doughnut at the mention of Reverend. Bachman, but he'd had to deal with his customer, so he had a few minutes to think before he got into Luke and Cooter’s conversation. "Luke, why would you and Dixie go see Reverend Bachman late at night?" Luke couldn't help himself. He was enjoying this conversation. He knew Luther may be pissed off, but other than swinging on him, what could he really do about it. Luke had waited a long time to not only prove Jesse wrong about the 'hogs producing beef' and all, but to prove Luther wrong too about how he'd use Dixie and leave her. He was trying to hide his amusement as he replied, "About a wedding, of course." Dixie was certain that if they lived through this, that she may kill Luke herself!" Luther asked, "So, this means that you have asked Dixie to marry you?" Luke replied, "Yes." Cooter was watching the conversation that reminded him of a chess game. "Dixie, I take it that you said yes?" Luther asked. "Yes, Daddy, I said 'yes'." Dixie said. "So, when is the wedding?" Luther was looking at Luke. Luke reached for the marriage certificate that he had shown Jesse as he replied, "Today, well earlier this morning." Luther looked from Luke to Dixie and back, then something toward the ceiling caught his attention for the briefest second before he horsley said, "So, you really want to be this grease monkey's wife?" "Yes, Daddy, more than I've wanted anything in a long while." Dixie replied. Luther nodded, then turned to Luke, "Alright. I've tried to make sure Dixie would not be hurt and would be happy all her life. I guess maybe I tried too hard. It seems that it's your turn now." Luther extended his hand to Luke, then pulled back, "There's one more thing. Remember, this is a family business, and you are officially family now." Luke stepped closer, looked the man in the eye, and firmly met the hand shake with his strong grip. Unbelieving what he'd witnessed, Cooter said, "Well, I think a beer is in order to mark this occasion." He was already heading to the fridge. Cooter got them all a beer,passing them around. Once they all had a beer, Cooter held up his bottle toasting the newly weds simply saying “congratulations!” Over at the Post Office, BL was dying to know what was going on. Mrs. Frawley, her neighbor on the other side, also the wife of the reverend of church there in town, came in “mornin Mrs. Frawley, how can I help you?,” BL greeted the woman who’d been her Sunday school teacher. “Morning BL, I need to send this priority,” Mrs. Frawley handed BL a large manila envelope. Taking the large envelope, stamping ‘PRIORITY’ in red she put it in a wire tray below the counter. “Is there anything else ma’am?,” BL asked, smiling. “No that’s all today, hope we’ll see you Sunday,” Mrs. Frawley said. “I know it's been awhile since I came to church, just got busy, that’s not a good excuse I know,” BL replied. Luke watched Dixie as she took the beer from Cooter, opened it, and took a drink for the toast. Dixie had been to Luke's right, so he held his beer in his left hand as he took a drink. Cooter looked totally shocked and said, "Now that's gonna take some getting used to seeing. It looks just plumb strange." Luke replied, "I don't know. I kinda like it." Dixie added, "Well I know I love mine." BL couldn’t take another minute of not knowing what was going on over at the garage and she knew exactly how to find out, gathering up the garage mail for ‘special’ delivery she swore under her breath as Enos Strate parked in front of the Post Office, he’d been off work with a broken arm “mornin’ BL, how’s it going? Enos greeted with his usual chipper way. “Mornin’ Enos, everything’s good. How’s your arm? I see you got the cast off,” BL said. “It’s good as new, Doc Applby took the cast off last week but he wanted to check it one more time before releasing me for duty. Thought I might as well pick up my mail on the way out.” Enos replied. Giving Enos his mail and wishing him well with his doctor’s appointment, BL clipped Sadie’s leash on and picked up the garage mail again. “C’mon Sadie, let’s take the garage mail over,” At the garage BL waved the mail then laid it on the desk “Hey…I brought the mail Luther.” Luke had turned some of his attention to the car that Cooter was working on. Luther replied, "Thanks BL." Dixie could see the questions written all over BLs face. Dixie quickly handed her beer to Luke as she walked out front with BL. Dixie smiled at her cousin's comment. "Well, it went better than I imagined, but I think that's what worries me." The girls had a good laugh before Dixie asked, "Hey, do you think we should try to beat all the busy bodies and put an announcement in the paper or just let Hazzard gossip take its course?" "You know no matter what you do, some will still gossip but an announcement in the paper might be nice for those that actually would be happy for ya’ll but may not hear it from the busybodies,” BL replied. Daisy had held off going to town just as long as she could. There was Duke news to spread, a reception to plan, cake to order. Her mind was racing nearly as fast as she was driving coming into town. Jesse had been a bit concerned about how Luther would take Luke and Dixie's news, so he was also headed to town a mite slower than Daisy. On the way to the bakery, Daisy saw Luke's truck still at the garage and Dixie and BL outside. She pulled into the garage instead. "Hey, ya'll. Am I clear? How did it go?" Dixie replied. "Better than I expected, which concerns me." Luke heard Daisy pull up. He'd been thinking on the way to town. "Excuse me, fellas." Outside, Luke put his arm around Dixie and Daisy, "I've been thinking, with tomorrow a work day and all...." He never got the thought out before Daisy read his mind. "Oh, no, you don't, Lucas Duke. You can not have news this big and not let me plan a party!" Luke found himself now putting his hands in front of him defensively, "I wasn't trying to stop you, Daisy. I swear. Just hear me out." "Ok." Daisy sulked. "Why don't you just get or make a small cake tonight. Have everyone over for supper and cake tonight. Then, this weekend, after you've had more time to plan, do it up big then?" Luke explained. "Well. Alright." Daisy agreed since she now had 2 parties to plan for. Dixie said, "Hey, that could work with what we were talking about. I was thinking of going over and putting an announcement in tomorrow's paper. We could invite everyone to the reception in the announcement." Luke replied, "That's fine by me. That is all y’all though." Dixie replied, "You just got to be there." Luke smiled mischievously and showed her his pager. "Maybe." He called as he headed back in the garage to tell Luther and Cooter about supper tonight. “Just let me see if Sadie can stay here and I’ll go over to the Gazette with ya’ll, I ain’t seen nobody go in the Post Office so I got time for a quick stop,” BL said, turning back to the garage. At the ‘Hazzard County Gazette’, Luke’s newspaper friend Norm was there helping out, like he did sometimes he asked “what can I do for you ladies?” “We want to put a couple announcements in tomorrow’s paper,” Daisy said. “Just put down what you want them to say, Norm handed Daisy a pen and a couple forms that said ‘please print’, Daisy gave Dixie the forms and pen. On the first Dixie wrote: On August 5th Lucas K Duke and Dixie L Davenport were wed in a small ceremony in Chickamahoney. Giving Daisy the other form and pen, Daisy wrote: There will be a wedding reception at 6:00 pm Friday at the Boar’s Nest, to celebrate the marriage of Luke Duke and Dixie Davenport. Out of habit, Norm took the first form from Daisy to read over to make sure all the needed information was included. Getting to the names of people who had been married, Norm let out a long, low whistle. "You two are serious?" Dixie was still writing all the information to make the announcement a nice one. She and Daisy looked at each other, then back at Norm before replying that yes, they were very serious. Norm was reaching for his camera and going into full reporter mode. "This is great! Where is Luke?" "At the garage." Daisy replied. "Well, come on, ladies. I need to go congratulate him." Norm said. He was thinking that this was going to be the biggest story he had ever written in Hazzard! BL had to go back to the garage to get Sadie and asked before Norm could get into full reporter mode or anything, afterall a Duke boy getting married was big news, “Daddy’s meeting me at the cafe for lunch, can I tell ya’lls big news or do you want me to let him read it in tomorrow’s paper?” Luke looked at Dixie, Clyde was her Uncle, so Luke thought it should be her call. Dixie replied, "I've been waiting since I was 15 to tell this to the world. Go for it." Luke couldn't help but cringe just a bit at Dixie's choice of words as he looked over at Luther. BL laughed at her cousin’s reply, her Uncle didn’t look amused at his daughter’s words although he didn’t say anything you could see his jaw muscles working. “Invite him and LB for supper and cake, the more the merrier,” Dixie added. You better hurry and get that cake ordered Daisy, before you need a big one instead of just a normal size cake. Tell Betty Lynn that I’ll pick it up after work, so you ain’t gotta come to town twice.” BL said “Will do, thanks BL,” Daisy replied, hopping in her car heading to the bakery. “I better get back to work,see ya’ll later,” BL said, then headed back across the street to the post office. At the Busy Bee, BL got a booth for herself and Clyde, a couple minutes later he came in,sitting across the table in the booth. Jenny, one of the waitresses, took their drink order and brought some menus, when she brought the drinks back. “What are you having Daddy,” BL wanted to get their food before she shared Dixie and Luke’s news, so she wouldn’t be overheard and inadvertently start gossip. “I think I’ll have the catfish platter,how about you? Clyde replied. “I had breakfast out at the Duke farm this morning, so think I’ll just have a burger and fries.” BL saw the questions in her Daddy’s eyes. Clyde wondered why BL went all the way out to the Duke farm for breakfast then drove back to town for work but Jenny brought the food so he couldn’t ask. Not wanting to go through the whole, Dixie being MIA all night she simply said, “Dixie and Luke got married and the Duke’s are having a small celebration, they want for the two families and you, LB, and me to come for supper and cake.” Clyde smiled nodding ‘yes’ as he chewed, swallowing he replied “I’ll call LB later and tell him.” BL told him about the big reception/party everybody was welcome at because it was announced in the next day's Gazette. “Can I stay with you tonight? Luke and Dixie are staying at the house, sort of a wedding night alone they didn’t get, it’s my wedding gift," BL said smiling. “Of course you are always welcome, you don’t even have to ask,” Clyde replied. After lunch, with neither having dessert, BL went back to the post office, while Clyde paid their bill and went back to work himself. After talking to Norm, Luke figured to get back to the farm and help Bo some today since he left him to do the morning chores alone. Dixie had scooted off toward the emporium and asked Luke to pick her up there. Her normal nightwear consisted of long night shirts with shorts or joggers. Inside Dixie found a nice silky lavender long gown trimmed in white lace and robe. It may not have been her choice if a wider selection was available, but from what was there, it was the best choice. Dixie had helped Jesse and Daisy with the extra large supper. Then, she slipped off to get cleaned up and changed before the guys came into clean up. Luke had caught up to Bo, and they had been working on mending a fence section. This particular job left lots of time for thought and discussion. Bo finally got around to asking Luke, "Luke, how long were ya'll planning to get married? I'd have thought you would have at least talked to me about the possibility of you asking Dixie." Luke kicked the post hole digger into the ground and leaned on it, looked heavenward, and said, "Bo, I not only thought about it but had asked Dixie years ago. You and the people who matter to us knew that. We were driving and talking, and when we ended up in Chickamahoney, we felt it was just time." “Uh huh, ok.” Bo didn’t exactly buy Luke’s reasoning, well completely. Bo asked, "Does it feel strange? Ya know, knowing you can't chase women anymore?" Luke laughed, "Strangely, it feels good knowing I don't have to chase women anymore. I just have to go home “Why ain’t you chasing a new woman every week?” Luke asked turning the tables on Bo.. “You ain’t been with nobody but BL for a couple months now,” Luke added. Bo set a post in the hole Luke had just dug, kicking dirt around it, then packing it down with his boot. In town BL locked the Post Office door, turned the sign to closed, pulling out of the alley and across the street, hanging a left at the church, BL pulled up in her driveway, leaving Sadie in the fenced in yard,” be right back girl, just going to pack a bag,” BL went to her room, packing black jeans and a blue top with a ruff on the shoulders, underwear and socks. In her makeup bag she tossed in her usual makeup, hairbrush and ponytail holder, deodorant and body mist. In the bathroom she got her shampoo and conditioner. Grabbing a thing of wet dog food and putting it with her stuff, she went back out to her car and headed for the bakery. Luke had noticed that Bo had become pretty quiet the rest of the afternoon, it was ok by him since he was doing a lot of thinking his own self. After telling Luther that they were finally married, things pretty much seemed like old times at the garage. Even though he knew not to totally let his guard down and be too relaxed too soon, Luke almost felt comfortable again in the same room with Dixie and Luther. That was a feeling he hadn't expected to ever return. Instead of washing up, Luke decided to shower, put on his newest blue jeans, and was giving his boots a fresh polish when Bo came into their room. BL entered the bakery, a bell above the door jangling, to announce her presence. A woman with salt and pepper hair, wearing a bib apron came out of the back with a friendly smile for her customer “what can I do for you sugar?” Becky Lynn asked. BL returned the smile replying “I need to pick up a cake for Daisy Duke”. Becky Lynn looked at the notebook by the register, going over to the cooler, taking out a cake with blue and purple flowers Congratulations Luke and Dixie written on it. How much Miss Becky Lynn?” BL asked. “Daisy paid this morning. Tell Luke and Dixie congratulations,for me,” Becky Lynn said. “Yes ma’am, I will,” BL replied. BL left town, going way slower than normal, so she wouldn’t damage the cake on the seat beside her, when out of nowhere a 15 mph speed sign popped up and then she heard a siren. “Gjit,gjit, I got her now, hang on Flash Darlin” Rosco said to his faithful companion. BL picked up her CB mic “Rosco what do you want? I ain’t speeding, heck I ain’t even goin 20,'' BL said, not even speeding up a little bit. “The sign said 15 and I clocked you at 17, so pull on over,” Rosco ordered. “Rosco there ain’t no speed limit signs on a dirt road. The frosting on this cake will melt, if I stop. You don’t want to explain to Daisy and Jesse you’re the reason Luke and Dixie’s cake, celebratin their marriage, got ruined, now do ya? BL said. “N..no I don’t……married?” Rosco replied weakly, dumbfounded by the news. Turning back toward town, he had to tell Boss. BL brought the cake in, sitting it on the dining table. They would be eating outside at picnic tables so there’d be plenty of room for everybody. Dixie was just coming out of Daisy's room, where she had changed and fixed her hair. Usually, she wore it pulled back in a ponytail around the house, and tied the ponytail up above her collar while at work, but tonight she had left it loose hanging around her shoulders and down her back. In the kitchen, Dixie volunteered herself and BL, "What do ya'll need us to do?" Uncle Jesse made a mental note of where supper was, "Get the table cloths out of the drawer over there, and ya'll can put them on the picnic tables and set the tables. Dixie reached for the table cloths and BL did a count; four Dukes, three from Luther's and 3 from her house. She then counted out ten plates, silverware and glasses. Once outside, while putting the checkered table cloths on the tables . BL was glad they were alone, the rest of the Davenports wouldn’t be there for a little while still and she had something privately to discuss with Dixie “hey Dix, I think I know a way to keep the gossips somewhat at bay, when they find out you're pregnant,” BL said. Dixie looked around quickly, ensuring they were alone, "Shhhh. How?" She asked just above a whisper. BL lowered her voice, even though she didn't think she was being loud. "You need to see a doctor asap, for a checkup, the doc will tell you how far along you are and a due date. So you just have to hide it a few weeks, then be vague about details," BL smiled "simple". Dixie looked up to see Daisy coming out with the rest of the items to set the table, "Simple. Right. Have you forgot who my cousin in law is?" “You ain’t planning to tell the family soon are ya?” BL asked once Daisy went back inside. When Dixie didn’t say anything right away, she nodded once saying “Didn’t think so because Luther would go into orbit…Just be careful what you do, like putting your hand on your belly because actions sometimes speak louder than words.” BL replied. Dixie shot BL a look. "That's silly. I mean, yeah, later on maybe, but I've only known a couple of days, so what would make you think I'd do that already?" “You wouldn’t if you were thinking about it.” BL shrugged. “We better get back to helping before anybody suspects something’s up,” BL said, going back inside,picking up the plastic bowl Jesse put water in For Sadie, when he dog sat for BL. Bo looked at Luke. He knew Luke liked his boots polished and cleaned, but to be giving them a good polishing like he was just for supper wasn't normal. "Getting a bit overdressed, aren't you?" " I don't think so. In fact, it wouldn't hurt you to dress up a bit." Luke replied as he put his shoe shine kit back in his closet. He had already tossed a change of clothes in a bag that was sitting on the foot of his bed. Bo looked down at himself “what’s wrong with the way I’m dressed?” Bo asked. “You ain’t going jukin’” Luke answered somewhat exasperated. He wanted everything perfect. “I ain’t going to church neither,” Bo replied. Luke shook his head, Bo just didn’t get it. "Well, just hurry up. Alight." Luke instructed as he left the room in a huff. He heard the wrecker turn down the driveway. He wasn’t sure if it was Cooter, Luther, or both. Bo didn’t know what Luke’s problem was, he didn’t see why the Davenports coming to supper was such a big deal, they had been coming for Sunday lunch on occasion for a long time. Taking one more look in the mirror to make sure his cowlick was laying down, he followed in Luke’s path. Hearing the wrecker, BL whispered as she passed by Dixie “ready or not here they come.” It wasn’t long after, Sadie barked happily in greeting as Clyde and LB’s pickups came down the driveway. "Thanks, BL." Dixie said. Just then, she felt more than heard Luke step up behind her. "Are you good?" Luke asked Dixie. "As long as Dad is the same man you talked to this morning, I'm great." She replied. Luke said for only her to hear, "Tell me about that." Jesse eyed the private conversation before declaring, "We's got company. Lets all get out there and greet them. Where's Bo?" Bo was tucking his shirt in as he replied, "Right here, Uncle Jesse." Outside LB came over as Luke and Dixie came out the door. Grinning wide LB said “congratulations Luke,rugrat.”. BL jumped at her brother on Dixie’s behalf ”LB, Dixie’s a married woman not a kid and it’s time you figured out she’s all grown up!” BL scolded. Cooter was about to bust a gut laughing “that’s tellin’ him squirt” Bo stood behind BL trying not to laugh out loud. She might be little but she was a little spitfire when riled. Jesse figured with the two Davenport elders there that he would let them handle their own. It was Clyde who spoke up first, "Kids! Enough." BALLADEER: Like the Dukes, the Davenport 'kids' knew when to cool it, well most of the time. Daisy said, "Ya'll sit down and get some iced tea. We'll have supper out here in a few minutes. Uncle Jesse, you can visit. BL will help me." Dixie said, "I'll help ya'll." "Oh, no, you won't. Now that company's here. You just stay out here with Luke. We've got this." Supper went smoothly, much to the relief of Luke and Dixie. After the leftovers and plates were cleared, Daisy brought out the cake. She had thought about asking Uncle Jesse about serving ‘shine with it but decided that could wait for the big reception at the Boar’s Nest, Friday. After cake, while Daisy and BL cleaned up, Bo, Cooter and LB were making plans of their own for Friday’s festivities. Luke was not looking forward to a man to man talk with Luther so he took Dixie by the hand saying, “let’s take a walk.” “Ok,” Dixie replied, the couple headed toward the back forty. The three elders went to the front porch to visit, Jesse sat in the rocking chair, the Davenport brothers made themselves comfortable at opposite ends of the swing. Jesse took a drink of coffee and said, "It's been good having you both over tonight. It's been a while. But now that we are officially family, I hope you'll come by more often." Luther knew, as did the other men, that you could likely count on one hand the number of times he'd been out to the farm since Dixie had left town. "It has been awhile, and I'm sorry for that, Jesse." "Well, we's family now. I hope we can all put the past behind us and move on." Jesse said. Clyde gave Luther a sideways look, trying to gauge how he’d answer. Luther took a drink of his own coffee, he was doing his best to put the past behind but it wasn’t easy sometimes. “No reason not to, kids are ALL grown now,” Clyde said, stressing the word ‘all’, mainly for Luther’s benefit. "I hear you both. I'm trying. Actually, I had been seeing the writing on the wall, so to speak, for some time since Dixie's been back. I even had a conversation with someone who wasn't happy at all to see Luke calling on his daughter, but told me that by the time his daughter and Luke stopped seeing each other that he sort of missed having him around. But, then I see them together and I can't help it, it rubs me the wrong way." Luther said, then added, "Before, it was the age difference and all. Now, their ages don't matter. I can reason that, but still...." Clyde nodded, "Luther I can understand how you feel and I bet Jesse can too, to a degree,” Jesse nodded ‘yes’. Dixie’s your ‘baby girl’, same as BL’s mine and we don’t want to see them get hurt,” Clyde continued “but we can’t always protect them, we got to let go and just let them know we’re there if they need us.” Luther nodded in agreement. Jesse added, "I know exactly how ya'll feel. None of us want to see Daisy hurt, but when she sets her mind to something, I just have to let her be, even if I know she’s going to get hurt,” After getting the kitchen cleaned up and the dishes washed Daisy and BL went to Daisy’s room to do their own planning for the reception Friday. “What do you think the cake should look like,” Daisy asked her blonde partner in crime. “Nothing real fancy, maybe just two or three layers, maybe just a few blue flowers around the base of the top layer and a bride and groom cake topper for a keepsake,” BL replied. “I bet Lulu will get the ladies club to help with more refreshments, if I ask,” Daisy said. “We should get Dixie a small bouquet to toss and a garter, so Luke can toss it,” BL said, adding “I just have to convince Dixie to wear a dress, so she can wear it.” Daisy giggled “yeah, I don’t think wearing it over her jeans leg would look right. BL shook her head ‘no’. Not wanting to be in the older men's conversation, Bo, Cooter, and LB had wandered off and were checking out General Lee's engine. Bo looked up and then around, " Say, where did everybody get off to?" Cooter looked around, "The girls are cleaning up and Dad's still on the porch." Bo frowned. It hadn't been what he meant. "Where's Luke?" LB replied, "Beats me." With an evil grin, Bo said, "Let's go find out." "Alright." LB said as the three men headed toward the back forty. About halfway to the wooded area behind the barn, Cooter pulled up short, "Hold it! Hold up a second." Bo said, "What? We're just gonna give Luke some grief." LB added, "Yeah, thatir newlyweds. We can't leave them alone too long." Cooter put his hands in his pockets, looked at his boots and said, "Yeah, but the bride in question is my sister. I don't even want to think thoughts like that." He shook a mental image out of his mind. Bo and LB looked at each other putting themselves in Cooter’s place thinking how it would be if BL or Daisy was off with her groom. They both looked at Cooter and said together, "Right." "I think we need to look at the General's distributor cap." "Distributor cap." Bo said, "Good idea." They turned around and went back to give the General a little more tender loving care. With their plans made Daisy told BL “there’s a ladies club meeting tomorrow afternoon, I’ll go see Lulu in the morning and tell her our plans and get her to ask the ladies for their help making refreshments, then on my way to work, I’ll go by the bakery and order the cake.” “Great. I’ll go to the flower shop and order a simple bouquet for Dixie to toss,” BL replied. “I think we better go check on the three bachelors, before they find trouble, “Daisy said with a big grin. Nodding ‘yes’ BL grinned back, so the two went through to the kitchen. Just as the girls got outside, they saw the three guys coming back toward General Lee. BL said, "Now don't they just look like walking trouble?" "Yes," Daisy agreed, "What did ya’ll do?" Cooter and LB looked at Bo, silently electing him spokesman. Bo didn’t say anything for several minutes “Uh, what were we doing? Cooter thought he saw a bobcat,” Bo said. “With ya’ll out here? Sadie would have been raising cane,” BL said, looking over at Sadie laying in the shade, not a care in the world, certainly not the presence of a bobcat or any other varmint. "A bobcat? On Duke land! Come on, Bo!" Daisy scoffed. Cooter had shot Bo a look when his name had been used in the tail. LB had even got wide eyed. The girls were waiting. Daisy was even tapping the toe of her heel waiting. "Alright." Bo gave in. "We were gonna have some fun with Luke." "Bo!" Daisy exclaimed. He was holding his hand up to hush her and also in self-defense if needed. "We didn't even get near them ...." Cooter again shook his head, trying to get a mental image to leave his mind, "I suddenly got to thinking and decided whatever is going on I don't want to know, see or hear the details." Another half hour and everybody was leaving to get home and get to bed, they had work the next day and there were still things to do at home before dark. “I’m just going to go back for my bag, then I’ll be along,” BL told Clyde. BL got in her car, then called to Dixie and Luke “I’ll meet you at the house.” Luke waved, ‘Mrs Hravitz is going to get a vapor lock, when BL leaves the house but we stay,’ Dixie thought as she pulled out in behind Luke’s pickup grinning wickedly. In town Gloria Kravitz was clipping her roses when BL parked behind Dixie instead of her usual spot, where Luke’s truck was now parked. Gloria wasn’t paying enough attention to what she was doing and cut off 3 of her roses. “Darn it!, Gloria fumed, seeing what had happened. When Luke got his bag from the truck at the sametime BL was putting hers in her GTO, Both giving Mrs. Kavitz a little wave, Gloria went toward her own front porch calling her husband, “Abner,ABNER!” Abner had been dozing in his chair. He crumpled his newspaper as he jumped at his wife's outburst. "What? For Pete's sake. What?" Gloria exclaimed, "One of the Davenport girls took a bag and left. The other is with a Duke boy, who carried a bag in with him!" If what his wife saw was what she really saw, this was upsetting even to Abner. "Surely you are wrong. Jesse Duke wouldn't let his boys do something like that here in town. It's still daylight outside. “You must have seen wrong dear, Jesse Duke wouldn’t stand for no such goings on,” Abner said, trying to reason with his wife. “I know what I saw Abner!” Gloria flounced right back out the door in a huff. Out on the porch she saw that the young couple had moved out onto the porch swing, they were really looking for somewhere cool but Gloria thought they were just flaunting their shameful behavior as she saw Dixie Davenport more than entwined in the Duke boy's arms. , August heat in Hazzard was stifling, but to be in love and newly married in a house with only fans it was downright unbearable. Dixie was sitting in Luke's lap as they kissed deeply. Luke's hands were rightfully moving over his bride's body. The temperature was rising even as the sun set. Getting even more worked up at the disgraceful display, Gloria went back inside to call Rosco, he’d put a stop to it, picking up the phone, she had Gussie, who was filling in while Maybelle was on vacation to get her the sheriff’s office. Enos was on duty, Doc Applby still wanted him to take it easy with his arm that had been broken and evening/night duty was usually uneventful “Hazzard Police Department, deputy Enos Straite speaking.” Enos said. “Deputy this is Gloria Kravitz, I want to report some deplorable behavior” Gloria replied. “Where’s this at ma’am? Enos asked, jotting down the address he promised to check it out then hung up. Hurrying out to his patrol car, Enos looked at the address he’d written down, he saw that it was close by, so he headed that way. Pulling up out front he saw Dixie Davenport sitting on Luke Duke's lap. They were both fully dressed. They were kissing until they heard his car stop. Luke likely knew most cars in Hazzard by the sound of their engines. He knew before he looked up that it was Enos's patrol car that stopped. He looked up to see Enos walking up the walkway to the porch steps. "Evening Luke, Miss Dixie." Enos said with his hat in his hands, turning it nervously. Luke greeted, "Evening Enos. It's good to see you back on duty." "Hey Enos." Dixie added. Enos shifted from one foot to the other, "It's good to be back, but I'm afraid this is an official call." "Official call?" Luke inquired. His mind was going several different places with this limited information. "I'm afraid so." Enos said. "Luke were ya'll doing anything else out here before I pulled up?" Luke wasn't following Enos' question, "Like what?" "Ummmm, .... anything that could be described as 'deplorable behavior'?" Luke thought back to what they had been doing and frowned. "Enos, the only thing we been doing is talking and a little kissing. Bo and I have had heavier petting sessions in the middle of the Boar's Nest on any given Friday or Saturday night." Now Luke was getting just a bit peeved and a little louder, "You know if I can't sit out here on the porch and kiss my wife, then there is something wrong here." Enos replied, "Well, no, Luke. There's nothing wrong with sitting on the porch kissing your wife." Enos paused now hearing what he had said, "Wife? ..... But, Luke, you got to get married to have a wife." "Oh, for crying out loud." Luke reached for the marriage certificate in his wallet. Thrusting the paper at Enos “see married” Luke growled. ”Married, possum on a gumbush. Congratulations buddyroe, Miss Dixie.” Enos gave a bit of a laugh. “Thanks Enos,”Luke and Dixie said together. “I better get back to the police station. Bye ya’ll and congratulations again,” Enos said, heading back to his patrol car. “Well why didn’t you arrest them?” Gloria demanded, arms folded over her chest, she’d wandered to the edge of the sidewalk pretending to be a concerned citizen. “I can’t arrest a married couple for kissing on the porch,” Enos said getting in his car. Gloria huffed, turning to go back inside as the deputy drove away. Luke watched the exchange. "Come on, Dixie." He took his bride by the hand, and they went inside. Upstairs, Luke turned BL's fan to pull the hot air out while turning Dixie's to pull the cool air into the house. With the doors locked, the law gone, each made calls to their respective workplaces that they were taking long deserved holidays the next day. Finally, it was time to shed way too many clothes and head to bed to do what newly married couples do.

Hobie you were right about Hoss knowing the answer! Thank you for clearing that up Hoss.

I have another puzzling memory, I need help straightening out. I think I heard once Cooter mention he had a cousin Tyrone, but I'm not positive. I remember he mentioned a cousin Earl [a few times I think]

Thanks Roger and Hoss! I can always count on you to steer me in the right direction even if you don't know the exact answer.

That sounds like it might be what I'm looking for, thanks Hobie!

Does anyone remember an episode where Daisy is said to be visiting an Aunt but is back at the farm later in the episode? This is driving me nuts because I remember it so clear or think I do but I can' t remember the Aunt's name. Might have my timing wrong, could be closer to the end of episode, I don't know. I do remember Uncle Jesse trying to send Bo and Luke to stay with Aunt Lavinia and Luke telling Bo 'Jesse ain't spoke to Aunt Lavinia in 20 years.'

BL groggily opened her eyes, looking at the clock she’d overslept. She and Dixie were up til after 2 talking. Grabbing a pair of jeans and a sleeveless top she went to the bathroom, taking a 5 minute shower. She went back to her room giving herself a couple squirts of body spray, getting socks, sneakers, and her travel size makeup bag BL headed downstairs quietly, trying not to wake Dixie “Sadie come”, BL called standing up from the front porch step, once she’d put her socks and shoes on. She saw the mail truck coming as she pulled up to the stop sign in town. Crossing the road, driving by the church and down the alley by the hardware store, BL parked in back of the post office, hurrying in the back, she made it out front just in time. —---------------------------- After getting out of the tub in the wee hours of the morning, Dixie couldn't help herself. She studied her body in the full length mirror. She had never considered herself small but she wasn't fat. Her mother had tried telling her she was 'big boned' whatever that meant. Her stomach was pretty flat and her hips and boobs made her shapely. Finally, she had gone to bed. Her mind was still going several miles a minute. She kept hearing BL's comments about Luke doing the 'right thing and doing right by her'. Those ideas lead to her briefly considering grabbing her stuff and fleeing Hazzard again. But, where would she go? Home to Mom? No. Call her former roommate and tell her to move over? That would work exactly until her next shift when Luke would be outside Tri-Counties jail waiting for her to arrive. No, those were bad ideas. Dixie set her alarm clock just in case before finally managing to fall asleep. —-------------------------------- Luke had thought over his and Jesse's conversation, then the fact in his mind that he had systematically asked half of Hazzard to watch the jumps today. He rolled over for what felt like the hundredth time and saw dawn breaking. He knew if he went to sleep now, he'd not want to get up. He sat up, killed his alarm, and stepped into his jeans that he'd laid out. He grabbed his boots with his wallet and keys inside and his shirt. In the kitchen, Luke sat his boots down, hung his shirt over his chair and set about making coffee. He was standing on the porch in only his jeans, sipping on coffee when Jesse joined him. “I knew you’d be up early but not this early, something wrong?” Jesse said. Luke took a drink of his coffee shaking his head ‘no’ “no, nothing wrong,just got alot on my mind,” Luke replied. Jesse sipped his coffee, "I'll listen if there's something you want to talk about." Luke chose the easy topic, " I have to keep my mind focused today. I asked Dixie, Bo and you to come watch. I know by default I'll also get Cooter and BL." Luke held up his hand, "That's fine. My concern is I have rookies I'm responsible for. All should be ok, but especially if something goes wrong, I need you to deal with them. I can't. I have to take care of the crew. This is why I never wanted y'all there before Luke sighed, "Dixie has to know what I do. Fire season starts soon. I've seen a lot of divorces and break ups because of this job.” Jesse took another sip of coffee “Don’t worry, Cooter and BL will take care of Dixie and I’ll be there for Bo if something happens. Heaven forbid. You just concentrate on them rookies having a successful first jump. Likely they’ll have family and friends watching too, that is, if they're allowed and it's not just a privilege only for senior jumpers,” Jesse said, raising a questioning eyebrow. Luke gave Jesse a look, "Sometimes we have family show up there to watch. It's hard to tell how many watch from other areas. I'll let the girls at the front desk know to expect ya'll." “Alright.What time should we be there?” Jesse asked. Luke replied, "About noon if you want to see the prep stuff. The plane is scheduled to take off for the first jumps at one." Jesse nodded and asked one more question, "I've never watched any jumps, how will I know if something goes wrong?" Luke dryly assured, "Ya'll will know. Trust me on that. —-------------------------- When Dixie's alarm clock went off she heard it, sort of, it was this far away noise that wouldn't stop. Finally she realized it was her clock going off, she barely got her eyes open and tried to figure out where she was and where her clock was. With the new black out curtains in the room and the fact she had little sleep but a really heavy sleep, Dixie was totally disoriented for a couple minutes. Then she realized where she was, why she felt like she was on a bad hangover and why the clock was set. Once she stood up to cut off the clock, she had to pee, now. It wasn't I need to go to the bathroom in a minute or three, but if you don't go to the bathroom now, you will have wet feet sort of need. Dixie started to the bathroom and saw where she had left the other pregnancy test she had bought. She grabbed it and went to the bathroom. "OK, she said to herself out loud, one more time, just to make sure before I have to open a huge can of worms." A couple minutes later, she found herself staring at the third ‘+’. "Dammit." She jumped in the shower hoping to get rid of her puffy eyes from crying and lack of sleep. She wanted to make a good impression on Luke's co-workers. —-------------------------- Bo came into the post office before BL had even got the mail sorted, she had just finished putting on her makeup and pulling her hair into a ponytail because she didn’t have time to fix it at home. “I don’t have the mail sorted yet, I’m running behind a little. I overslept so had to bring my makeup and fix my hair here,” BL explained, while hunting the Duke's mail. “It's ok, darlin’, I’m not here for the mail, I’m here to ask a question. Luke invited me to base camp to watch him jump, wanna go?” Bo asked. “What time? I’d like to but I can’t just close early, everytime I want to do something,” BL explained but obviously not happy about it. “Luke said the prep stuff starts about noon but the plane is scheduled to take off for the first jumps at 1,” Bo replied. “Great, I can do that,” BL said. “See you at noon,” Bo said, taking the mail, BL had gathered and left. The morning was busier than most days because it was Saturday and most people who worked through the week, was off. BL put a sign in the window about closing at noon. This was a change in business hours, she was considering making regular. Bo was waiting for her when she returned from Central City “ready?” Bo asked. “I got to take Sadie home, follow me over,” BL said. “Why don’t you just bring her?” Bo suggested. BL thought why not, "Alright, but swing by the house. If Dixie hasn't left, she can ride with us. She may want to ride back with Luke." —--------------------------- Bo followed BL across town, home with Sadie. “Hey Dixie, you want to ride with me and Bo, to watch Luke jump?” BL asked. Dixe was still in a state over all 3 pregnancy tests being ‘+’ and wasn’t sure driving to base camp so far away was a good idea. “Yeah sure, that’d be great,” Dixie said. Mrs. Cravitz had heard General Lee and was watching from her porch where she was watering her potted plants. BL and Dixie both getting in General Lee with Bo, had captured her attention so fully, she was drowning her poor plants “hussies”, she said to the plants as Bo drove off. Dixie said from the back seat of General Lee, "If she keeps watering her plants like that she's gonna have to plant pond lilies." BL agreed as Bo circled town square instead of taking the right out of town. BL asked, "Bo where are you going?" Before Bo had time to reply he had swung into the garage parking lot nearly entering the empty bay, "Figured Cooter may want to go." Dixie said a silent prayer that the garage was busy today and that he'd not be able to go. —----------------------------- When Bo stopped, Dixie almost swore, not only was Cooter there not looking real busy but both Luther and Clyde were there too. “Hey ya’ll. Cooter, are you busy,” Bo said. “Nope, as you see ain’t nobody here, why?” Cooter replied. “Luke invited us,” Bo thumbed at the General Lee, where Dixie and BL waited for him, “to come watch him jump, thought you might want to come too,” Bo said. “Sounds fun, I’m in,” Cooter replied. Bo thought a minute then said to the older Davenports,“ya’ll can come too.” This time Dixie did swear. Thankfully Bo had gotten out of the General before he began talking or Dixie might have strung him up from the garage rafter so no one but BL heard her swear. Luther looked over at his missing daughter, ""Well, it would be a chance to get to see my missing daughter, but someone has to run the wrecker and keep an eye on the pumps." Cooter had washed his face, hands and put on a clean work shirt, "I'll take the wrecker as soon as we get back." Luther threw his hands up in defeat. Bo said, "Come on, you can ride with us." Cooter jumped in the back seat with Dixie, Bo up front and they were off heading toward the County line. —----------------------------------- Just a couple miles and they’d be at the county line, with no sign of Rosco, BL was thinking only to have sirens to break into her thoughts “I knew this was going to smooth, we’ll be late if Rosco catches us Bo,” BL said. “He ain’t going to catch us; bye, bye Rosco,” Bo said, speeding up. “Bo he’s going to catch us,” Cooter said, when he saw a road construction sign. “Hang on,” Bo said, giving the General more gas, the road had been cut in half, hitting a pile of dirt, the General soared over the workers and equipment, notes of ‘dixie’ sounding along with Bo’s trademark “YEEHAW”. Landing with a bone jarring ‘thud’ across the county line, Dixie had pulled Sadie into her lap, holding onto the dog securely. Bo had stopped to watch Rosco attempt the jump, only to nose dive the patrol car into the gully. “He’s ok,” Cooter said, looking over his shoulder. Dixie said just a might too sharp,"Bo, have you lost your mind?" She heard herself and knew everyone but BL would be wondering where that came from. She had made bigger jumps with both Bo and Luke since she was fifteen and normally loved it. She hugged Sadie to her and began petting and making over the pup, "You scared poor Sadie to death! It's OK Girl." She hoped she smoothed that over as she nuzzled the pup. Bo looked over at BL, he knew Dixie loved it when he or Luke made a jump but BL wasn’t looking at him so he couldn’t gauge whether or not she knew something. —-------------------- On a break, Luke went to the front office where the human resources department was, that consisted of two girls. They were known as Missy and Becky. Luke had worked with employees a lot of years but was put on the spot, if he ever saw one without the other he might mix up their names. Where you saw one the other was there too, at work or not. "Hey, Ladies, ..." He sighed, "I did something last night that sort of snowballed on me." Working with all these guys so long, and this coming from Duke, they were a bit hesitant to jump into his conversation. One of them asked, "Do we want to ask?" "Probably not, but you likely need to be prepared." Luke rubbed the tension in the back of his neck as he began, "I asked my girlfriend Dixie to come watch the jumps today. That turned into asking my cousin, then my uncle,...." The little blonde said, "Awe, that was nice of you. I don't think we've gotten to meet any of your family." Luke finished, "Well, I know my cousin Daisy is going to insist on equal rights, then Bo is bound to bring a friend and that means someone has told my buddy." Balladeer: "Too bad Luke doesn't know that Sadie too was invited." —------------------------------- At 12:45 General Lee parked out in front of the base camp’s main building, BL got out and took Sadie from Dixie, so she could slide out the window “ya’ll go let someone know we’re here, me and Sadie will wait outside,” BL said. So Dixie, Bo and Cooter went inside. Becky saw them come in, just as she came out of the front office “can I help you?,” she asked. “We’re Luke Duke’s guest, he told us to come here and someone would take us to a place where we could watch the jumps,” Dixie said. “Oh you must be Luke’s girlfriend. I’m Becky, come with me,” Becky said. “My girlfriend is with us and she has her dog, they are waiting outside,” Bo said. Becky smiled, saying cheerfully, “no problem”. Becky led the group back out the front door and around the building to a small area with picnic tables under a shaded pavilion. “Thanks Becky,” Dixie said. Jesse and Daisy were just about to go inside, when Becky saw them asking if she could help. Telling them where the others were, when Jesse said they were there to watch Luke. The airplane hanger that housed the plane as well as the Smokejumpers gear was a good distance away from the classrooms, offices and HR department, but Luke couldn't help hear the General's arrival. One of the rookies spoke up, "Wow, something has a motor in it." Luke shot him a look, "So does that plane you plan to jump out of. OK everyone last check, check yourself then check your buddy." Luke took the time to do just that himself before he and the other experienced jumpers gave each of the rookies one last look before they boarded. The pilot had given the plane its final check, fired it up and was talking to the control tower. Luke looked at the wind socks around the field. A slight breeze. He was good with that. Everything was a go, everyone boarded the plane. —----------------------- “Hey Bo, can you help me later? I bought a bedroom suit for my third bedroom and it’s being delivered today. Daddy is going to be at the house when it’s delivered but the bed will need to be put together,” BL said. "Sure. It shouldn't be a big deal." Bo said. Dixie said, "That must be the plane." Jesse checked his pocket watch, "Right on time.” “Thanks,” BL said, everyone turned their attention to the sky. —----------------------------------- The plane took off, climbed to the desired height and radioed the man in back at the door. Due to the engines being so loud he gave Luke a hand signal, then opened the door. Each rookie was paired off with an experienced jumper and would jump just behind the experienced jumper. Luke and his rookie would be last. As the first two jumpers came out of the plane, all eyes were in the sky. Missy and Becky also came out to watch. Bo said what everyone was thinking, "I wonder which one is Luke." Missy explained, "They are jumping in pairs. The experienced jumper will go first, controlling their speed to be able to come down with the rookie. Luke will be in the sixth pair. “I still don’t get why anybody would want to jump out of a perfectly good airy plane,” Jesse said. “Looks like fun to me,” Daisy said. Dixie replied, "I think so too, Daisy. Well out here like this, not jumping into a forest fire." Cooter said, nodding his head, "Yeah, yeah, ... I could do that." “It’s pretty, those white parachutes kind of look like clouds from this far away,” BL said. Jesse said, "Look, there's the second pair." Sadie had laid down on the cool concrete floor of the pavilion, enjoying a nap while the group all watched the jumps, waiting for Luke’s turn. —------------------------- Everyone had seen the first of the jumpers land and clear the landing area. The fifth pair had cleared the plane, when Missy said, "The next one out should be Duke." Luke cleared the plane door, then began to control the free fall turning to see his rookie and positioning himself to slow his descent. The rookie cleared the plane and pulled his chute as trained. Luke now too pulled his chute as the rookie caught up to him. Luke watched him go down and landed away from the rookie so their chutes wouldn't get tangled. Once on the ground there was the matter of gathering the chute to be repacked. At the Pavillion, Dixie couldn't help but to let out the breath she hadn't realized she was holding since she had heard the plane start up. The rest of the jumps went as planned without incident. Balladeer: Once everyone was on the ground, they were picked up by a pickup truck and taken back to get another chute to jump again. By four o'clock the rookies had six jumps under their belts. Now it was time to put their gear away so the chutes could all be repacked on Monday. —---------------------------- Luke was never one to let on that he wasn't getting any younger, but it was days like this that he sure felt it. He was learning that usually two jumps and he was fine, but three or more and he felt it. After six, he wanted a real long hot shower. After getting all his own gear squared away, then he had to check behind his crew and the rookies. Only after everything was checked did Luke get his quick hot shower. He knew the others were waiting on him, so he'd wait until he got home for a longer shower. So freshly showered, shaved and smelling wonderful, Luke finally headed to the pavilion where the others were. Bo was first to see Luke headed their way, “here he comes” Bo said. “That looked fun Luke,” Daisy said with an excited look in her eyes. “It is when you’re not jumping into an inferno, flames all around you,” Luke replied. Dixie was a bit quieter than normal, but added, "I like watching the chutes, after they open glide gently down to the ground. They are pretty." Luke reminded, "The ground is still pretty hard when you land. Especially after doing it more than once. So, do ya’ll want to get something to eat here? That way ya'll ain't hurrying to throw something together." —------------------------------- “I got supper already cooked and a waiting. Ya’ll just come onto the house all of ya, Cooter you too,” Jesse said. Heading back to the farm, Bo stopped at the garage, so Cooter could get the wrecker. Dixie was riding in her usual place in Luke's truck. Not the passenger side, but the middle. She took in Luke's scent and was content to lay her head on Luke's chest, with her right hand tucked in his shirt. Luke had followed Bo around town and said, "Do you need anything from town?" Luke received no answer. He looked down to see Dixie sound asleep on his chest. He headed the pick up onto the farm, figuring Dixie would be awake when he got there. BL crawled up front to the passenger seat when Cooter got out “c’mon Sadie,” BL patted the front seat between her and Bo. Cooter saw that Luther was locking up as he came around General Lee “I’ll take the wrecker Dad,” Cooter said. Luther handed over the wrecker keys, got in his truck and headed home. Jesse and Daisy got to the farm ahead of the rest and Jesse put the big pot of crawdad bisque he made earlier, on the stove to heat. —------------------------------ Luke parked in his normal place, still a couple minutes ahead of Bo, "Dix." Nothing. He brushed her hair back and said a bit louder, "Dixie." Dixie managed to respond with a questioning moan, "Huh?" Luke said, "We are here." Dixie replied, "Good." But never moved. Luke couldn't help but grin at her, "Dixie come on. Let's go eat." "Ok." She said, still not moving. Luke had still not gotten Dixie to wake up, when Bo drove up and parked. Bo got out then went around, helping BL with Sadie. “What’s the matter Luke?” Bo asked. Luke had his door open and was getting ready to just carry Dixie in “she fell asleep on the way and I can’t wake her up to go in,” Luke replied. “Guess we stayed up too late,” BL said. —----------------------- The added commonition of Bo and BL made its way into Dixie’s mind. "Yes, we did. Sorry. I'm awake." Dixie finished that statement with the thought, 'I think.' She felt like she had been run over by the truck she was in as she sat up and got her bearings before getting out of the truck. BL was giving her a concerned look to which she shook her head slightly 'no' and mouthed, 'I'm fine.' She only hoped no one else thought her unplanned afternoon nap was strange. By this time Cooter had arrived, parking the wrecker to the side, incase he got a call. “Let’s go eat,” Bo said, Jesse’s crawdad bisque was his favorite food. They all headed inside, noone giving Dixie’s nap another thought. Inside they all washed up and the girls helped Jesse and Daisy finish setting the table and fix drinks for everybody. After dinner, Jesse took his coffee to the porch while the others cleared the table and put up the left overs.The girls were tidying up the kitchen when Bo, Cooter and Luke came out on the porch with iced tea or coffee. Jesse asked, "Ya'll got any plans tonight?" Cooter replied, "Just hoping the County stays home or learns to drive." He pointed to the wrecker. Bo said eagerly, "I was hoping we'd all go grab a beer." Luke replied to both Jesse and Bo, "Count me out. My plans involve this chair then my bed." Bo almost complained until he remembered the ladies. Surely BL was game, so maybe Dixie could change Luke's mind. When the girls came out with their tea and a pitcher for refills, Bo tried his charm. —------------------------------ “Hey ya’ll want to go grab a beer?“ Bo gave the girls an irresistible smile. “Sure,” BL said. “I gotta get going that way here in a minute, Roxie just called, she’s sick and needs to go home, I got to close for her,” Daisy said. “How about you Dixie? Luke wants to be a wet blanket and stay home and go to bed,” Bo said. "I'll let you know before you're ready to leave." She took Luke's hand and started off the porch. Luke was sure this was Bo's doings and that Dixie was trying to talk him into going out for a beer. "Now, Dixie...." was all of the conversation the others heard, but Dixie heard the rest, "I really don't want to go to the Boar’s Nest tonight." "Good. Neither do I." Dixie said, "But, I'd like us to talk somewhere." Luke sighed. It was never good when women wanted to talk, "Is this a let's take a walk sort of a talk?" Dixie shook her head 'no', "It's more of a let's take General Lee for a drive, sort of a talk." Luke took that to mean that Dixie wanted them to get lost awhile. He really didn't want to go out but to get lost, he could do. "Are you sure it's not a pickup sort of a talk?" Dixie replied, "I'd rather take the General, if it's not an issue." "Come on before Bo takes off." Luke didn't often insist on taking General Lee, so in his mind, Bo shouldn't have a problem with when he did. Back on the porch, Luke motioned for Bo to step inside, "How about trading me vehicles tonight?" Luke held out the keys to his pickup. —---------------------------- Bo looked at the keys, then at Luke “what’s up?” Bo asked. Luke shrugged, “It’s Dixie’s idea, she wants to take a drive in General Lee, maybe get lost for a while.” Bo thought Luke hardly ever let anyone drive his truck, not even Dixie really. Taking General’s keys out of his pocket handing them to Luke, he took the truck keys “thanks Bo,” Luke said . Bo and Luke came back out on the porch. “We got Luke’s truck for the night darlin,” Bo said. “Nice. Hey Cooter, will you take Sadie home? I don’t want to get dog hair all over Luke’s truck seat,” BL asked. “No problem cousin,” Cooter replied. —---------------------------- Luke and Dixie were in the General Lee, Luke fired him up and started out of the driveway, "Where to? Anyplace in particular you want to go?" Dixie replied, "How about still site 4." Luke headed that way. All the way there he figured that this talk was going to be about his Smokejumping, but he'd known Dixie a long time and he really didn't see her asking him to quit jumping after watching them make six near perfect jumps. Yet, this upcoming conversation had that fill to it. Luke really hoped he was wrong, as he backed General Lee up the hidden path to the flat just below the still site. They walked up to the still site, then out by the stream. Luke took Dixie in his arms and said, "OK, is this about the jumps today?" He figured he might as well cut to the chase. Dixie looked up in surprise, "What? No." Luke was a might relieved, "So, this isn't about wanting me to stop jumping?" "No, Luke. I know your job is a part of you and I'd not ask you to stop." Dixie said. Luke let out a breath he'd been holding as he had dreaded this conversation with most girls. "Good, thanks." Dixie added, "Just like you don't like what I do, but you haven't asked me to stop either." "Right." Luke pulled Dixie to him and remembered his and Jesse's conversation. He took a deep breath and began, "Dixie, I had reasons for asking you out to see the jumps today." "You did?" Dixie asked. Luke replied as he moved closer, "I can't expect you to live with something like that the rest of your life if you've never even seen it before." Dixie raised her eyebrows, "Live with it the rest of my life? Luke, what are you talking about?" Luke took her hand and dropped to his knee, "Dixie will you finally marry me?" Dixie had water works running down her face before she found her voice, "Luke, if you would have asked me since I walked into Hazzard last time how I would answer that question, well right up until about midnight last night I knew what the answer would be, .... now, ..... noowww, ..... I just don't know how to answer that." Luke was confused. Dixie was crying even harder.Luke tried to calm her and figure out what Dixie was so upset about, "Tell me what changed after midnight." Dixie took a small box from her purse and handed it to Luke. He opened the box, moved the tissue back and found three identical items that sort of resembled old thermometers. He asked, "Thermometers?" Dixie shook her head no and pointed to the little window on each item. Thankful that beside the window had + pregnant and - not pregnant beside the window where she directed his attention. Balladeer: Don't go to the refrigerator now………..

The new drapes worked wonders. No light had managed to get into Dixie’s room at all, then she heard this annoying sound through her sleep. It was several minutes before Dixie realized it was her alarm clock. Even as she went through the motions to begin to get ready for work, all she could do was think about her pillow. Dixie was never a morning person, but today, there wasn't enough coffee in the world to get her moving. She hadn't showered last night so she had to this morning. In the shower she stood there letting the hot water run over her, finally washed her hair and stood there some more when her inner voice said, 'You're gonna be late.' "s***!" Dixie got out of the shower, now trying to rush to get dressed and on the road which meant the more she hurried, the more she dropped or fumbled things making her morning process take more time than usual. —---------------------------- BL had been up for a while, sitting on the back porch watching Sadie, cup of coffee in hand. Having Dixie a travel cup of coffee fixed,giving it to her on her mad dash out the door. Once Dixie had left, BL went to shower still having plenty of time, to get to the post office before the mail truck. After showering she went to her room to get dressed, looking over at the clock BL swore “damn it,” she’d had showered too long, now she had to hurry which meant she didn’t really have time to fix her hair like usual, so pulled it up in a ponytail. Dixie checked her watch, she’d just make it if she bent a speeding law or three and Rosco nor Cletus stopped her. Dixie was a bit relieved when she crossed the county line without Rosco or Cletus stopping her. Now, she could speed up a bit she thought as she took a drink of her coffee. —------------------------- At the Duke Farm, Luke had been up awhile. He had done his part of the morning chores, showered, dressed for work and managed to eat breakfast before heading to his truck to drive to base camp. They would be packing chutes today in order to do jump training tomorrow. "I will probably be late this evening depending on how many times it takes these people to get their chutes right." Luke said. Jesse was pouring coffee, "Luke, ..... how many times did it take you to get it right?" "First try at Missoula, I could fold it faster than the instructors." Luke said proudly. Jesse clarified his question, "I wasn't talking about Missoula as a Smokejumper I meant for the Marines." Luke frowned a bit, "That's different. I was younger then." Jesse said calmly. "About the age of your Rookies now." Luke gave Jesse a grin, "Thanks Uncle Jesse. I'll try to be patient." Bo made his way into the kitchen, pouring a cup of coffee “Am I that late or are you that early cousin,” Bo asked Luke, seeing that he was ready to leave for work. “You're that late, I done my part of the chores, showered, got ready for work and ate,” Luke replied, heading to his truck. “Go do your chores Bo, your breakfast will be ready by the time you're done,” Jesse said. —------------------------------- Balladeer: Back in town at the post office it was busier than a one armed paper hanger. BL handed a roll of stamps and a package in a big yellow envelope to Miss Clara Coltrane at the counter “there ya are Miss Clara, that’ll be $10”. Clara paid for her stamps “thanks alot hon, see you later” Clara said on her way out. Three more people came in just as Clara was leaving, they only wanted to mail something, which didn’t take very long. About 1o’clock, BL ran the mail route as usual, today she had a package for Artie Bender the Hazzard Piccaso, as he was called by many. Finding him at his favorite painting spot, BL gave Sadie his mail “you take these and I’ll carry the package,” BL said getting out of the car. “Here’s your mail Artie,” Sadie dropped the stack in his lap. “You got a package here too” BL said, giving him the small brown box “thank ya Miss, must be them new paints I ordered,” Artie replied. —--------------------------- Luke happened to check a parachute packed by one of the rookies. There was no way that it would have opened and caught air. The Marine in him wanted to loudly explain that he would have died had he been wearing that chute. Instead, he heard Jesse's words from this morning. He took a deep breath, let it out slowly, then began, "OK, folks, listen up. We are going to go back to square one here. We've got ALL day. Remember, you can get away with getting most of the information on some things and be ok, but if you don't fold your chute right, YOU will be the first to know when it fails and failures happen even if you do everything right. Around fires that create their own weather, conditions change quickly. Everyone spread your chutes out again and we'll do them once again together....." Randy couldn't believe how patient Luke was being today. "Remember we are going to fold 20 chutes each for practice before you fold the 21st one. The 21st chute is special, it's the one you will be wearing bright and early tomorrow." Luke said to the rookies. —--------------------------- At the Boar’s Nest things were slow until mid afternoon when people started coming in droves, to cash and spend the week’s paycheck. The garage was busy too, with Friday ‘date night’ activity. Cooter wished he’d volunteered to make the part run for Luther or that Luke was around to help out, the pumps were backed up 4 deep and he just got a call that Rosco was up a tree. At the farm, Bo was having his own problems trying to get the tractor started. He had never been the mechanic of the bunch. He was the driver. He wished Luke was here for about the hundredth time since starting this project. All he could figure out was it wasn't getting fuel. He hoped the filter was clogged. "Uncle Jesse I'm gonna run up town for a fuel filter." BL saw Bo pull up at the garage, needing a breather she gathered up the mail to take to Central City and put the out to lunch, sign in the window and headed to her car “Sadie come, want to go for a ride. Balladeer: Cooter and Luther don’t just keep everybody’s vehicles running but they get parts to keep everybody’s tractors running too. —--------------------------------- Well if it ain’t the prettiest postmaster in the county. How's it going darlin’?,” Bo asked, giving BL his trademark grin. “Not bad, it’s been busy today. I don’t see how Miz Tisdale did it all by herself on days like today, I’m tempted to hire someone to help out. That way I ain’t gotta close, just to run the mail upto Central City,”BL said. “Here you go buddyroe, one tractor fuel filter,” Cooter said, coming from the back corner inside. “Here’s the mail Cooter,” BL said, handing a stack of part catalogues and car magazines to her cousin. —------------------------- Dixie had gotten to work just before being late. She had been there for about an hour when all of a sudden she was hit out of the blue with a wave of nausea. She figured it was where she had drank only coffee and not eaten anything. She went to the snack machine for a bag of chips to hold her til lunch and went back to work thinking no more about it. Bo told BL at the garage he’d pick her up later to go jukin’ at the Boar’s Nest, he was going to have to do all the evening chores, Luke usually worked late when he had a group ready to make their first jump. BL went straight home after work, cooking supper. Balladeer: Jukin is a term used to describe music, dance and social intercourse. —----------------------------- Dixie was supposed to get off at four. No one had called in to say they wouldn't be in for their shift so by 230 she was pretty certain she would be leaving on time. She thought that right up until one two letter word or maybe it wasn't even a word but just two letters, C O set off a chain of events. Dixie had worked the Control room for her shift. When she heard someone call out, "C O". Which is what most of the jails inmates called any of the officers. The next time Dixie had a free moment to register what time it was and not just looking at the clock for a time to log something it was 8:15! Before she could even pick up the phone a voice from behind her said, "Hey, sign the log book over and you can head out." Dixie didn't have to be told twice. "Ok, great!" She said. BL wondered why Dixie hadn’t called but figured Dixie might have thought she wasn’t home but out with Bo already. Bo parked at the garage and walked to the house, to keep Rosco off her case about too much noise. Sniffing the air,coming into the kitchen he said,“Hey good lookin’ whatcha cookin’? Smells great.” BL got them, plates and silverware “meatloaf, mashed potatoes, pinto beans and cornbread,” BL replied. They planned their night out, while they ate. Putting the food in the refrigerator for Dixie and the dishes in the sink, BL left Dixie a note on the table supper in the fridge. Dixie knew she should take the time to call someone to let them know she was late, but she also knew if she didn't leave now that she could get stuck longer. She signed over the logbook and headed for the time clock, the door and then her car. Once in the car she pulled out of the parking lot, took in a deep breath which she let out slowly trying to get rid of the day's stress. Now she could drive toward home to change out of her uniform before going out for the evening. Luke had stayed over until he was sure everyone had their packs right for tomorrow's jumps. He figured everyone would already be at the Boar’s Nest but when he got there he saw he was the first to arrive. It was payday weekend and the place looked packed. Luke parked his truck and headed inside. —------------------------ BL changed into a tank top with a bit of lace at the top in front and denim shorts, then she and Bo walked to the garage to get General Lee. Bo spotted Luke’s truck saying, “looks like Luke got here first.” BL slid out of the General, “hope he got a table big enough for everybody, it’s packed tonight,” BL said. The couple wound their way through the crowd to where Luke sat “saved ya’ll a seat,” Luke said. Daisy came over with them all a beer. Cooter came in about 10 minutes later but there was still no sign of Dixie. Dixie saw everyone's cars at the Boar’s Nest as she went by but hadn't taken any clothes with her and there was no way she was going in there as packed as it was in uniform. She kept going to BL's to change. Once inside, she placed a call to the Boar’s Nest. Daisy answered, "Daisy, it's Dixie. I got stuck at work and came home to change. I'll be that way in a bit." Luke and BL had talked. Neither had heard from Dixie. He finished his beer and got up to either call her or head out looking for her when Daisy stopped him half way to the bar, "If you are thinking of calling or going looking for Dixie, ... she just called. She's at BL's and will be here soon." Luke wasn't sure that he liked Daisy reading him that well, but nodded and asked for a second beer. Bo stood up, beer in hand “how about some pool darlin’?,” Bo asked BL. “Sure, I don’t mind skunking you again,” BL said, grinning. So the two threaded their way through the crowd, to the pool table. Dixie knew everyone was already having a good time, she quickly ditched her uniform, being grateful she was off tomorrow. She found her favorite blue jeans that she always thought fit her great. When she went to button them, tonight they felt a bit snug. Dixie cursed, figuring she was just bloated. Next she found a spaghetti strapped top and put it on with her cowboy boots. She took her hair down, gave it a good brushing, then replaced the ponytail holder. In no time flat she made her way to the table with the others at the Boar’s Nest. “Where’s BL and Bo?” Dixie asked. “Playing pool, I think BL’s about to school him again. Want a beer?” Daisy asked bringing Cooter another beer. “Would you make that a soda?” Dixie said, she hoped the soda fizz would help get rid of her bloating. “Sure, be right back,” Daisy said. “8 ball corner pocket,” BL called her shot, hitting the white cue ball diagonally across the table sinking the 8 ball in the corner pocket. —------------------------------- Daisy brought Dixie her soda “here ya go Dix,” she said. “Thanks Daisy,” Dixie replied. The Jukebox began playing Mel McDaniel’s Baby’s got her bluejeans on, “want to dance?” Luke asked. They headed to the dance floor, Luke then took Dixie in his arms singing along quietly in her ear, Up by the bus stop and across the street Open up their windows to take a peek Y'all she goes walking, rockin' like a rollin' stone Heaven help us, baby's got her blue jeans on She can't help it if she's made that way She's not to blame if they look her way She ain't really tryin' to cause a scene It just comes naturally Aww, the girl can't help it Well, up on main street by the taxi stand There's a crowd of people and a traffic jam But she don't look back, she ain't doin' nothin' wrong Lord have mercy, baby's got her blue jeans on She can't help it if she's made that way She's not to blame if they look her way She ain't really tryin' to cause a scene It just comes naturally Aww, the girl can't help it Down on the corner by the traffic light Everybody's lookin' as she goes by They turn their heads and they watch her 'til she's gone Lord have mercy, baby's got her blue jeans on Heaven help us, baby's got her blue jeans on Back at the table, the more Dixie watched the others drink their beers, the more she actually wanted one. When the second round of her soda arrived with the others beers, she reached across Luke and picked up his beer mug, taking a nice drink of it. "I'll have Daisy bring you one over." Luke said. Dixie shook her head no, "Yours always was better, besides I don't want to have to go to the bathroom all night." She took another drink of the cold watered down beer, but tonight it seemed better than usual. She handed Luke back his mug and began telling of the inmate that had a medical emergency and had to be taken to Tri-Countues hospital which caused her to be late. —------------------------- BL and Bo finished their pool game and came back to the table as Daisy brought everybody’s second round, having seen them come back and sit down she’d brought them one too. When Dixie finished her story about the sick inmate, BL asked “did you find my note that I cooked supper and it was in the fridge?” "Yes, I did. Thanks. I'm figuring on it for a midnight snack." Dixie said. Luke was about to take another drink of 'his' beer when his mug went away from him. He just shook his head. It reminded him of when they had gone to the Boar’s Nest years ago and Dixie would snitch his beer. “Welcome.” About an hour later, Luke said “I’m going to ease on out of here, tomorrow’s jump day for my current bunch of rookies.” Dixie took another drink “think, I’ll head out too I’m tired, see you at home BL,” Dixie said, leaving with Luke which nobody gave a second thought now that the couple wasn’t sneaking around. Cooter got a wrecker call, so that just left Bo and BL. “Guess it’s just us, want to dance?” Bo asked. They went out to the dance floor as Fishin’ in the Dark started playing. —---------------------------- Luke had walked Dixie to her car where the couple began saying goodnight. Luke ended the kiss before Dixie was really ready to do so, but said, "I'll follow you to the house and make sure you get in ok." Dixie smiled up at Luke, "Ok." She got in her car as Luke walked to his truck. He had to straighten his rather tight jeans before getting up into his truck. Dixie parked in the driveway attempting to be quiet. Luke parked on the street but away from the Cravitz home. They found the porch swing and began to swing. "Do you really have to leave this early?" Dixie asked. Luke replied. "No, not really, but I wasn't wanting to take chances on everything flying apart at the Boar’s Nest. Say, what are your plans tomorrow?" "Nothing really. Why?" Dixie figured Luke may have a better suggestion. "The jumps will start about 1 if you or ya'll would want to come watch." Luke said. Dixie knew Bo had begged for this opportunity. "I'd love to come watch, but you better ask Bo or we'll never hear the end of it." Luke laughed, "I'll ask him later." Mrs. Cravitz had gotten used to hearing the Davenport girls' cars coming and going but that was two vehicles and only 1 belonged to the girls. Looking out the window Gloria could see BL’s front porch, she saw Luke and Dixie on the porch swing. Back at the Boar’s Nest, Bo and BL had danced to three more songs, Bo signaled Daisy for another round of beers, BL shook her head ‘no’ and held up one finger letting Daisy know to bring only 1 beer. When Daisy brought Bo’s beer she asked “can I get you anything BL?” “Tea, I got to work tomorrow, so better lay off the beer,” BL replied. Daisy was only gone a minute before BL had her tea “thanks Daisy”. After talking about Dixie coming to Base Camp about noon tomorrow, conversation had died down. They swung and listened to the night sounds awhile. "Abner, they are on the swing on the other side of the porch. I don't hear them and I can't see what they are doing." Gloria said. Abner puffed his pipe blissfully unaware of what his wife had said due to the ear plugs he'd slipped in when he too heard the cars next door. By the time Luke had kissed Dixie goodnight and made it to his truck, he knew he would need a cold shower when he got home. Jesse had been home a couple hours when he heard Luke's truck pull in. Then he heard the shower turn on. He gave it a few minutes before heading to the kitchen for a cup of coffee. —--------------------------------- “I used to worry about running out of hot water, when you, Bo,Jeb,Vance and Coy was all living here. Now maybe I need to worry about running out of cold water,” Jesse said, ribbing Luke. Luke and Jesse both had a good laugh. BL was having a good time, she looked at her watch and it said it was 11:30. She wasn’t ready to go home yet and Bo apparently wasn’t ready to go either, he was taking his turn at the dart board. He and Dobro had been playing darts for the last hour. “Bo I need to get home, I gotta work tomorrow remember,” BL said. “Give me 5 minutes darlin’” Bo replied. Jesse motioned for Luke to sit down. Luke almost groaned out loud, but knew better. "Son, it's none of my business and I try to stay out of you kids' relationships, but...." Jesse paused to take a drink of coffee. "Luke, it's just shy of midnight. Dixie is off work tomorrow. Why are you home so early?" Jesse asked. Luke thought this was a safe question that he knew the answer to, "Dixie is off tomorrow, but my rookies make their first jumps tomorrow." Jesse nodded, "So you have to get up when?" Luke replied, "About five." Jesse nodded again, "I've known you come in just in time to put on work clothes, work all day here, drive the wrecker all evening, make a shine run and still go jukin." Luke smiled, "That's been awhile ago Uncle Jesse." "It has. So what's changed?" Jesse asked. Luke said with a laugh, "I've got older." Jesse held up his finger, "Got it in one. So now that we both agree you've got older, when do you think you are gonna settle down?" Luke went on the defensive like he had since he was a young adult, "Now, just hold one there a minute Uncle Jesse. Ain't no need in getting that serious right now...." Jesse just looked at him like he had four heads. "Dixie is a might younger than you, but if you ever want to have a family and be around to see your grandkids, .... You might want to start doing some math, there son." Jesse got up patted Luke on the shoulder and said, "Night son. Be careful tomorrow." Luke swore to himself as he watched Jesse go back to his room. Why that man started conversations like this at this hour then went to bed leaving you to think on the conversation when you should be asleep was beyond him. —---------------------- Bo parked on the street in front of the house, he didn’t want her walking home from the garage in the dark. “You’re going to wind up Mrs. Cravitz parking in front of the house, at this hour,” BL said. “So…” Bo replied. “So, this is Hazzard not New York City, I would have…” the rest of the protest was cut off, by Bo’s lips pressing against hers.”Abner, I just heard another car, it parked across the street but nobody got out,”Mrs Cravitz said almost hysterical but Abner just kept smoking his pipe. The earplugs he put in his ears earlier were still there. Bo eased back from BL’s lips, he was taking a cold shower when he got home. “See you after work tomorrow,” BL said, sliding out the General Lee’s window, heading to the house. Bo waited until she was on the porch before leaving. —----------------------- Luke had his pajama bottoms on, he was in bed, laying on his covers, hands laced together behind his head in the dark staring at the ceiling when Bo entered the room carrying his clothes and boots, wearing a towel and trying to be quiet. Luke quietly said, nearly making Bo jump out of his skin, "I'm awake." “Luke, you done scared my dog,” Bo fussed. “Sorry,” Luke replied. Bo asked “how come you’re still awake, thought you had to work?” “I do, just thinking,” Luke replied. Bo sized Luke up as he finished drying and put on his pajama pants. "Anything you are ready to talk about?" Luke replied, " Not particularly." Then he said, "You know how you've been wanting to watch us jump?" Bo replied, "Yeah." But figured to hear the same hundred reasons why he shouldn't be there. "How about tomorrow, .... be there, say no.... " Bo was now standing, "Really!? You mean it!?? Wow!!! YEAH!!! What's the catch?" He asked lastly. Luke replied dryly as he pointed to the door, "You explain to Jesse why you are shouting at one in the morning. Luke had just gotten the warning out of his mouth, when Jesse burst in the room “what in tarnation is all the hollering about?” Jesse demanded. “Sorry Uncle Jesse, go back to bed,” Bo said. —----------------------- Jesse huffed, "Go back to bed! Not until you tell me what is wrong." Jesse said a bit harsher than normal. Bo grimaced, "Really, nothing is wrong, ..... something is right. Luke, finally, said I can go watch him jump tomorrow. I've only wanted to see that since he was in the Marines." Jesse looked over at Luke, who promptly said, "And I'm already regretting it. While I'm at it, do you want to come too?" Jesse now understood Bo's outburst, Bo had begged for this chance for years. "I might just do it. I never could get past the idea of jumping out of a perfectly good airy plane. Now go to sleep." —-------------------------- At BLs, Dixie had just made it upstairs after eating her dinner, planning to take a really long bath when BL came inside. She called, "BL do you need in the bathroom before I take a bubble bath?" BL replied, "Yeah, I'll be right up." Once the bathroom was clear, Dixie sat everything she needed down then began to get undressed. Seeing that she still had not started, she shook her head, wrapped a towel around her and crossed the hall to the room she was claiming. She picked up her pocket calendar and then dug in the back of her dresser drawer to find a test. She was hoping, really hoping, she had been mistaken about the dates before. Inside the bathroom, she did something none of the girls ever did. She very quietly locked the door. Opening the calendar, Dixie began to count back. She hadn't been mistaken. She was late, but hey that happens sometimes. There can be lots of reasons a girl is late. OK, she would take the test, find out she was overreacting, then she'd surely start in the morning. Dixie read, re-read, and read a third time the instructions for peeing into a cup. She dipped the test with a shaky hand and looked at her watch. For the next couple of minutes the 'what if's' kept trying to get into her head. Dixie promptly shot all those ideas away. She knew it was crazy. She just knew this was her mind playing games on her. Looking at her watch, time was up, but she gave it another minute just to be safe. She picked the test up. From reading the directions she knew - was negative and + was positive. It should be easy to read according to the instructions. Dixie knew she was being silly as she watched her hands shaking. She had known plenty of women who had tried for years to get pregnant that had not. She and Luke had been really careful, well mostly, ... there was the night at the lake, ... well in the lake, ... that Luke had tossed his pants before, .... and then well, in the heat of the moment he didn't go back after protection, ... but that was one time, ....well ok it was more than once but it had been all that same night, Dixie tried to reason with herself. 'Just look at the thing, then you can get in the tub.' She said to herself. She quickly flipped the test over knowing a ‘-’ would be there. ‘+’ was staring at her. It felt sort of like being kicked in the gut by a mule as her stomach dropped to the floor about the time her knees buckled as she sat down hard in the middle of the bathroom floor. BL was laying on her bed, reading to unwind. Sadie lay at the foot of the bed snoring; hearing a noise on the other side of the wall that BL’s room shared with the bathroom she raised her head up completely alert now. “Jumpin’ Jehosefat!What was that?” BL put down her book. “Dixie you ok?” BL hollered but Dixie didn’t answer. Getting up BL went around the corner to check on Dixie, finding the door locked, which was strange. The only time the girls locked the door was if all the guys were there too, “Dix you ok? Unlock the door.” BL jiggled the knob. —--------------------------- Luke kept thinking about his talk with Uncle Jesse, even though tomorrow would start early and be long he couldn’t get to sleep. Luke was also thinking of the many reasons he had not wanted his family there when he jumped. He knew his mind needed to be 'in the game' not on them. He knew what it would do to them each time he pulled out if something went wrong, anyone got hurt or worse. He had asked Dixie, because she needed to know exactly what he did when he went to work once fire season was in. He had a great crew, he hoped the rookies would learn to be great. Accidents happened, crew members and himself had been hurt. It was one thing to jump out of a perfectly airy plane as Jesse called them, but another to not be landing in a soft sunny hay field, but a fully engulfed mountain side. —------------------------ After the first few times BL called to Dixie, her panic made its way into Dixie’s mind. She swallowed the nausea down and tried to speak. In a voice that didn't sound anything like herself she said, "Can't unlock it right now. I'm fine." She said feeling anything but fine. Dixie knew there was no way her legs would hold her right now. "Open the door or I'm calling the guys,"BL insisted. Dixie was nearly in a panic her own self hearing that, "Don't!!! Give me two minutes." BL counted loud enough for Dixie to hear…1 Mississippi, 2 Mississippi, 3 Mississippi… Dixie’s legs wobbled but she managed to stand and get the door unlocked by the time BL reached 10 Mississippi, she had no doubt that if she didn’t unlock the door BL would make good on her threat and that would bring alot more questions she didn’t want to deal with. The second BL heard the lock, she let herself in “Dixie, WHAT in Sam Hill is going on? You’re shaking like a leaf,” BL said, making Dixie sit down on the toilet lid. As Dixie looked up, she felt tears welling up in her eyes from out of nowhere. She looked up further willing said tears not to fall. "I'm fine." “Malarkey” BL said, seeing the test instructions laying by the sink. “Judas Priest on a pony! Tell me this was negative,” BL said almost plaintively but Dixie wouldn’t even look at her “oh Lord”. —-------------------------- "Yeah." Was about all Dixie could get out right now. She knew the delicate house of cards that was the relationship between her father, Luke and even Cooter was surely about to get rocked to its core, very much the way it had years ago when Luke and her were caught at the lake. BL didn’t really know what to say at the moment, she knew how delicate things were still between Luther and Luke and it was likely Cooter wouldn’t take the news well. She also was thinking about how her own relationships would be affected. Not that she was selfishly worrying about herself but both men knew Dixie confided in her and Luther atleast would accuse her of hiding it from him. “It’ll be ok, Luke will do right by you, not because it's expected but because he loves you. You can see it, when he looks at you, heck it was there when you was just 16,” BL said. Dixie shook her head 'no', "I won't be accused of trapping, ... Luke. Don't want him that way." Tears were falling and now it was all Dixie couldn do to not sob. —---------------------------------- BL sighed, it was going to be a long night, “come with me,” BL guided Dixie back across the hall to her room. After Dixie was sitting on her bed, BL got her housecoat off the hook on the closet door, like her own it was rarely worn “put this on, it's better than just that towel.” Sitting beside Dixie now, BL spoke gently “whether you marry Luke or not is between you and him but you HAVE to tell him you're pregnant and the baby is his, he has a right to know he’s going to be a father. Dixie looked at BL with a surprised look, "BL, I know all that and you are right, ... but I just need a minute here. OK? I just knew I was overreacting. I just knew I couldn't be..." “I know you need some time to wrap your head around this Dix, I just didn’t want you to think you could just not tell Luke, so people wouldn’t accuse you of trapping him,” BL explained. "I probably am saying all this wrong, but I don't want Luke to think I trapped him." Dixie said. She and BL knew she had made real sure that she had taken her birth control regularly. “I don’t think he’d think that or believe it, if somebody tried to convince him you did,” BL said. A sudden thought hit her like a rock, her mouth falling open. Dixie saw the look, "What?" She was nearly afraid to ask. —------------------------------- “Your birth control must have failed. I keep track, just in case you get caught up in something and forget,” BL said. Dixie replied, "Oh, I've been taking it regularly, especially since coming back here." BL then asked the same thing Dixie had been. "So, how?" Dixie's eyes filled up again, "The night ya'll showed up at the lake...." BL didn’t have to hear more, she knew what had occurred “one night wouldn’t result in pregnancy, unless you missed one or more birth control pills, would it?” BL asked, confused. “Especially if ya’ll used protection. You did, right?” BL asked, not knowing the details of Dixie and Luke’s actions before she and Bo got there. Dixie nodded, "Yes, Luke always used protection too, well, except for that night." Dixie remembered why Luke had parked so quickly and so close to the road. “Well I just don’t know what went wrong, can’t change it, so might as well try to get some sleep,” BL said. Dixie nodded that BL was right but she knew she'd not get to sleep tonight. "Yeah, I think I'll try that bath again." Dixie got up off the bed slowly since she wasn't sure her legs would hold her. Once she knew her knees weren't going to buckle, she said, " Night, BL. Thanks for everything. Please, if you see Bo, before I can really talk to Luke, please don't tell Bo. I love him, but Luke can read him like a book." BL hated to be the one to tell Dixie this but felt she needed to, "Darlin' Luke Duke also reads you like a book. He's going to take one look at you and know something is up." "Thanks, Cousin, I needed that right now. Night." “Night Dixie,” BL went to bed, putting her arms around Sadie and got doggy kisses in return “night Sadie,” BL said. —------------------------------ Dixie dug around for the bag with the tests she had bought. She took them in the bathroom with her. Dixie looked at the sink where the test she took was still setting. She looked at it again. The "+" was still very clear.After she turned on the tub, Dixie dipped a second test and sat it by the tub. She then got in the very warm water and poured extra bubble bath into the water. Normally a hot bubble bath could about undo any stress Dixie had from her work week, tonight she didn't think it was going to help much. After several minutes the tub was full. Dixie loved the high sides on the old antique clawfoot tub. Before sinking down into the bubbles, she picked up the second test, turned it over and again saw the "+" staring back at her. "OK, so we are two for two here. No mistake." Dixie said aloud for only herself to hear. She sank in the tub and tried to picture Luke’s reaction. It was a conversation she had never thought of having with him. Then she tried to wrap her mind around just the logistics of having a baby around. Hell, BL even had issues with Sadie and often had to get a sitter for her. Luke worked mostly five days a week during the day but this was his off season, she had no idea what his on season would be like. She worked forty plus hours, normally dayshift but could be called in early and she never knew when she'd have to stay late. Dixie knew Jesse Duke might not be happy about the timing but would be over the moon with excitement. Then, there was her father.....moon and going into orbit wouldn't be out of the question, but she didn't think it would be from excitement. ^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^

The next morning BL was a bundle of nerves, she couldn’t sit still, Bo parked at the garage and walked down the sidewalk to Miz Tisdale’s, it was early but he figured BL was probably up. Knocking on the front door, when noone answered he let himself in to find BL with a rag and bottle of windex, “what ya doing darlin’?” Bo asked. “Cleaning the windows, gotta do something until time for work or I’ll go nuts,” BL replied. “I have a better idea than cleaning windows, that’ll only give Mrs. Cravitz a better look at what’s going on over here. How about we go get breakfast in Colonial City at the new Waffle House? We will be back in time for you to meet the mail truck, promise,” Bo said. BL thought about it, getting out of town for a bit did sound nice. Laughing, some of her tension relieved, BL said “Wouldn’t want to do that, she sees too much already,” continuing “ok sounds good, just let me tell Dixie and get my purse. Hey Dixie? Bo and me are going for breakfast at Waffle House in Central City, be back in time to get ready for court.” BL said. —----------------------- Dixie got up, let Sadie out in the back yard and put on coffee. She hadn't bothered to get dressed, so she was still in her long night shirt that she had put a pair of really short shorts on under it. She poured her coffee and went out on the small back porch to sit while Sadie romped in the yard. Mr. Cravitz, unlike his wife, hardly ever looked out the windows. If he did, it surely wasn't to see what the neighbors were doing. This morning as he poured his coffee movement out the window caught his eye. He looked up to see a younger girl sitting on the porch in nothing but a sleep shirt. He had to look twice. As he did, Gloria had stepped into the kitchen. Seeing her husband looking hard out the window, she had to see what he was looking at. When she saw the half dressed Davenport girl outside on the porch, she had an attack of the vapors! —----------------------- Bo parked General Lee in front of the Waffle House building, then climbed out going around to the other side, helping BL out and taking her hand leading her inside to a booth. “Now ain’t this better than cleaning windows?” Bo said. “Yeah, just what I needed this morning,” BL replied. The waitress came to get their order, she wasn’t really hungry but ordered pancakes anyway. It was sweet of Bo to take her out for breakfast, to distract her from worrying about the day ahead. —----------------------- Dixie was about ready for a second cup of coffee when she heard the wrecker pull up out front. Sadie's ears popped up as she too heard it. "I'll be back, girl. Let me see why Cooter or Dad are here so early." Dixie went through the house and to her surprise found Luke coming to the door, not Cooter or her Dad. "Hey!" "Wow, you are up and bright eyed this morning." Luke said surprised since Dixie wasn't normally a morning person. "I just heard the wrecker and expected Dad or Cooter." Dixie said. "Well I'm sorry to disappoint you. I can go send them over." Luke said. "Don't you dare! You look tired." Dixie said as she led him inside to pour coffee. Luke began to explain, "There could be a reason or three for that. We left here and planned to sip on a beer at the garage. Your Dad showed up and asked me to drive last night." Luke said. "Rosco,....." Dixie cut him off, "Oh, no." Luke nodded, 'yes', "But, it wasn't bad just a tow and impound, but I had to go to the lake, back to town, then back to the farm. And, don’t ever let me park where we were the other night and do what we did, unless you want a repeat of years ago. Dixie poured Luke a cup of coffee and handed it to him, then picked up the tied up trash bag that was sitting by the door “go rest on the porch and watch Sadie, I’ll just be a minute, the garbage truck runs today.” Dixie said. Sitting his coffee on the counter Luke reached for the bag, “I’ll take it out for you,” Luke said. —------------------- Dixie shook her head “it’s not heavy, go relax and I’ll be right there,” Dixie replied as she went out, Luke followed. Gloria and Abner both were still watching “Abner, what’s he doing there so early?” Abner was watching Dixie take out the trash in her nightshirt. Abner gave Luke the slightest glance and replied, "Looks to be drinking coffee." Dixie sat the trash down at the curb, came back to meet Luke on the front porch, then they both went out to the back porch where Sadie was. Dixie was sure of his reply, but asked anyway, "Have you already had breakfast?" Luke replied, "Would Jesse have let me out of the house otherwise since he didn’t have anyone else to cook for?" They heard the shower kick on. "OK, well I'll see what Daisy wants when she gets down here." Dixie said. She and Luke continued to talk, when Sadie started barking, when they looked over she was looking up into a big oak tree. Going over to see what it was, Dixie and Luke shaded their eyes “look Dixie it's a squirrel,” Luke said pointing up into the tree. As Dixie turned around, she saw the kitchen curtain move in the next house. "I don't believe it. She is at it already." Luke had forgotten all about the local busy body. "Who?" Dixie lowered her voice, "Mrs. Cravitz, I just saw the curtains move." —------------------------- Daisy came downstairs to get a cup of coffee, spotting Dixie and Luke in the backyard looking toward the house next door she came out, to see what was up. Sadie came to greet her, having lost the squirrel. “Hey girl”, Daisy gave Sadie some petting then going to where Dixie and Luke were “what ya’ll lookin at?” she asked. “Mrs. Cravitz is at it already, this morning,” Dixie replied —--------------- “What time is it Bo? BL asked,drinking the last swallow of coffee. Bo looked at his watch,replying “It’s 7:30, you still got plenty of time to get back and meet the mail truck.” For another 15 minutes BL relaxed and enjoyed Bo’s company, getting back to Hazzard and getting her car in time to meet the mail truck. Leaving Sadie home until after court. Instead of delivering the mail though before opening at 9:00 she sorted delivery from PO boxes, before going home to change clothes, for court. Luke finished his coffee, "I'll be back in a few minutes, Darlin'." He gave Dixie a kiss on the cheek. "Where are ya goin'?" Dixie asked. "To take the wrecker back to your Dad before the sun and moon line up and Hazzard breaks into chaos." Luke said seriously. Dixie and Daisy both laughed as he walked through the house toward the wrecker. Daisy asked, "How? Why does he have the wrecker." Dixie replied, "Long story. I'm gonna grab a shower while he's at the garage." BL was just coming up the porch steps as Luke came out the door “morning BL,” Luke said. “Morning Luke,” BL replied. She headed straight to her room, hearing the shower running as she went by the bathroom door, glad she hadn’t done anything to need one since taking one earlier in the morning. —------------------------ “Abner that Davenport girl from the post office is home, when she should be at the post office,” Gloria said, adding “I wonder why,” she was talking to herself now more than her husband. BL looked at herself in the full length mirror on her closet door, Daisy and Dixie had decided she should wear the yellow dress with white flowers and wedge sandals but now the outfit didn’t look right to her. Looking in the closet she got out her green tiered, maxi dress and beige chunky heels. Putting a few hot rollers in her hair, to give her waves, not frizz BL went downstairs while they cooled. Sadie came over and put her head against BL. Across the square, Luther Davenport opened his garage to find something he hadn't expected. Luke Duke's truck. For just an instance that bugged him, then he tried to be more reasonable as he thought back to a conversation with Bill McCormick about the eldest Duke that had for years been a burr under his saddle. That fact tended to also bring back memories of hard feelings, fights and nights in jail, then he remembered how things used to be before Dixie came to spend that summer with him and even about a year longer. Luther couldn't deny that other than family he had given the Duke more freedom at his garage than any other employee. Just before time for the garage to officially open, Luther heard his wrecker pull in. He didn't have to look at the clock but he did. Ten minutes early. Luther shook his head. Luke got out of the wrecker, "I hope ya didn’t mind me leaving the pickup here last night." Luther replied, "No, that's fine." "There's also an impound in the lot. I'm glad the key to the lot was on the truck's keys." Luke said. —---------------------------- BL leaned down, taking Sadie’s head between her hands “hey girl, you're worried about me ain’t ya? I promise Mama will be herself by this afternoon,” BL said. Sadie looked up with her big brown eyes, as if to ask, 'Promise' As Luke was giving Luther the information from the night before, the kid Luther had hoped to have hired a truck driver walked in. Looking at the clock, Luther noted he was ten minutes late. Luke handed the keys and tow/impound ticket to Luther, "We'll, let me get this thing," referring to his pickup, "out of here and ya'll can get some work done." He turned to his truck. At 9:40 Bo drove up, parking General Lee on the street, making his way to the front door he knocked . “Come on in Bo,” Dixie called, coming down the stairs. “Hey, what are you doing back so soon?” BL asked, coming from the kitchen. “I came to take ya to court,” Bo said. BL looked down at her dress “if you think I’m climbing through the General’s window in a dress…”. “We’ll take your car,” Bo said. —------------------------ Luke pulled up in the driveway just as Mrs. Cravitz came out to water her flowers, Abner was tinkering with the lawnmower “Shouldn’t those young people be at work this time of day, especially the Davenport girl,works at the post office.” Mrs. Cravitz fussed . At the garage, Cooter went to the bathroom in the garage, washed up, and changed shirts. He eased out the bathroom door and saw his dad under the hood of a truck. Cooter stepped out the back door and took the long way around the Square getting to BL's just before the others were ready to leave. Everybody left in pairs; Luke and Dixie were in Luke’s truck, Bo and BL were in BL’s GTO and Daisy and Cooter brought up the rear in Daisy’s roadrunner. Parking in front of the courthouse, Bo held BL’s car door, taking her hand to go into the courthouse. Jesse was waiting for the ‘kids’ as they all came in. “Daisy said you girls was going shopping this afternoon,” Jesse said to BL. “That’s the plan Uncle Jesse,” BL replied. “I just wanted to tell ya, I’ll run the post office and look after Sadie for ya, so there’s no need to rush, go have yourself a good time.” “Thanks Uncle Jesse,” BL said, taking a seat up front, this would likely be a less formal hearing, than say a drug related crime hearing, at least she hoped so. —---------------------- Luke and Dixie hung back on the street to meet the four witnesses who were coming in for the hearing. Luke hoped his plan worked as he scanned the street. "So far so good, Rosco and Cletus' cars are both parked at the Courthouse." Dixie gave Luke a questioning look. "No roadblocks, detours, dirty handed tricks to stop our friends." He said. "Ah, I see." Dixie said. Inside, Jesse had taken a seat beside BL. Bo, Cooter and Daisy were behind her. So far no one else was in the courtroom except Cletus who would be the Court Bailiff. It was about two minutes to 10 when Rosco and Boss Hogg showed up and took seats across from BL. Cletus heard Judge Druten's door and advised all to stand while the Judge took the bench. Once everyone was seated, the court was called to order with the tap of the judge’s gavel. Dixie heard the gavel tapping, "Luke." "You can go on in if you like, but it's OK. It's part of the plan." Dixie knew that you didn't just show up late for court ever. —------------------------- About ten minutes into the hearing a big Chrysler sedan pulled up to the curb in front of Luke. Luke greeted them, then directed the four witnesses into the Hazzard County courtroom. Balladeer: Now by the time Luke, Dixie and the witnesses got in the courtroom, most of the formalities of swearing in, reading rights, charges and such had taken place, which just might be part of Luke's plan. Judge Druten had read the charges but said. "Now, let me get this straight, Sheriff. You charged Miss Davenport with Mail Fraud because Mr. Hogg there said he wasn't getting his mail to PO Box 101 which he himself rented?" Rosco replied. "Yes, ...." Boss Hogg looked pleased. "Well, ... um. .... no." Rosco continued. Judge Druten looked at the Sheriff, "would you care to explain that?" Rosco replied, "Well, Boss there, sent Cletus to rent the mail box." "Mr. Hogg sent our Bailiff, Cletus Hogg to rent a post office box for him, Jefferson Davis Hogg?" The Judge asked specifically. Rosco replied, "Yes." "So, if the box was for Jefferson Davis Hogg, why was it rented in your name?" The Judge asked Cletus. "That's what cousin Boss told me to do." Cletus said proudly. "Did you plan to have any mail sent to this box? Or did you have any mail sent to this mailbox?" The Judge asked. "No to both." Cletus replied. "So which box did you rent?" The Judge asked. "Box 101. Cousin Boss wanted Box 100, but it was taken." Cletus helpfully explained. Boss Hogg was beginning to turn purple. Judge Druten turned to BL,"Who rented the mailbox?" BL replied, "Cletus Hogg." "You are certain?" The Judge asked. BL replied, "Yes, Sir. He gave me his ID." "So if Cletus was supposed to rent box 100 but couldn't because it was taken, who rented box 100?" BL replied officially, "Beauregard Duke." "Did he get any mail there?" The Judge asked. "Yes." BL replied. —----------------------------- "Mr. Duke, that would be Beauregard, since there are several Dukes here. Did you get any mail in your box addressed to either of the Hoggs in question?" Bo replied. "No, Sir." "Was all the mail addressed to you that came to this box?" The Judge asked. "No." Bo replied. "If it wasn't addressed to you, how was it addressed?" The Judge asked. Bo replied, "To P. O. Box 100, Hazzard" Judge Druten nodded. "Which was your mailing address?" Bo replied. "Right." "I know that you live with your Uncle Jesse on the farm. Is there a reason that you got a separate mailbox for yourself?" Druten asked. Bo replied sheepishly, "Yes, I put an ad in a magazine or two to reach out to some of mine and Luke's fans from when we ran the racing circuit. If they wanted an autographed picture of General Lee and myself they could send in five dollars." —------------------------------ Rosco said, "Oh, good grief." "So, you had some response. Is that all that came to that box was five dollar orders for pictures?" Bo replied, "No, there was several hundred dollar bills too." "What were they for?" Druten asked. Bo wasn't certain how to answer that, "Well, when the first one arrived I thought it may be a fan club or something making one big order." Rosco again mutter, "Oh for Pete's" Bo paused, "Then I got a couple in one day. Then a couple more a day or so later." Judge Druten asked, "so what were you thinking then?" Bo replied, "I wanted to think they were more fan club orders, but I wasn't really sure what to think." "Did any of the five or hundred dollar orders come with any explanations? Or order forms?" Bo replied, "A couple of the five dollar envelopes had letters, but no order forms or explanations in most." —--------------------------- Boss Hogg was seeing red and itching to say his peace. Judge Druten turned to him, "So tell me why you had Miss Davenport charged with mail fraud?" Boss Hogg said, "Don't you see he got the envelopes with my money in them. That was my hundred dollars." "How do you figure?" Judge Druten asked. "Because that dumb dipstick rented box 101 not 100." "Why were you expecting to get money in the amount of a hundred dollars sent to you at box 100?" Boss tried to calm down, "It was investments into a business deal. " "What sort of deal?" The Judge asked. "Land deals." Boss replied. "Would it be for these luxury vacation spots?" The Judge held up one of the ads. Boss began to sweat, "It would be." "Would this be the same luxury houses that are actually these tiny homes out at Hound Dog lake blown up to look much bigger?" The Judge asked. Rosco again mutter, "Oh for Pete's" Boss began the studder, "We'll, I'm not sure which tiny homes you are speaking of." —----------------------------- Judge Druten looked back at Luke, "Mr. Duke, Lucas for clarification, I understand you have some pictures for me." Luke stood and replied, "Yes, Sir and I also have a letter from one of the people who sent a hundred expecting a land title for their down payment on their luxury home spot but got twenty pictures of Bo and the General Lee. Also, there are four more witnesses here to swear to the same thing." Judge Druten compared Luke’s pictures to the picture in the ad, then read the letter from the witness. He sat back in his chair and collected his thoughts, "JD I'm fixing to throw this whole mess so far out of my court that you won't believe. You have the nerve to have someone falsely arrested and brought into my court because Bo there got money in his box when it was being mailed to Cletus, not you, for something that doesn't even exist. If you continue to run this ad, put the house size in the ad with a company name and correct your box number. Beauregard if you continue to run your ad you may want to add a form to be included just so you know why someone is sending you money. Do you plan to give these nice people their money back?" Boss Hogg couldn't contain himself, "Give them their money back? It's my money." Judge Druten tapped his gavel, "It is not your money unless they want to conduct business with you outside of my court, after hearing how you planned to cheat them. Now, Bo, are you going to give them their money back?" Bo pulled out his wallet, "Yes, sir, that was my plan." Judge Druten continued, "Good, I'll let you all take care of that after court. As for you Miss Davenport, you are free to go. I see nothing that you did wrong at all and you even saved these people from investing in a sham. Court dismissed, I've got fish to catch!" With a tap of his gavel, his robe came off to reveal his fishing outfit that he had on under his robe. He picked up his lucky fishing hat and headed toward an exit. —------------------ In the hallway the Dukes,Davenports and witnesses gathered to talk. “Thank ya’ll for coming today, I really appreciate it,” BL said. “You’re very welcome dear,” said Fran, one of the witnesses. Bo took out his wallet once again, giving them all their $100 back. Talking for a few more minutes the group walked out to the street, the witnesses getting back in their Chrysler sedan. “Ya’ll ready to do some shopping,?” Daisy asked BL and Dixie. “I need a couple hours, Uncle Jesse said he’d run the post office while we go but I want to deliver the mail first,” BL said. “Ok, we can do that. Whose car we taking?,” Daisy said. Dixie replied, "Unless ya’ll really want me to get mine, I'm good to ride but I got shotgun." —----------------------------- Luke suggested, "How about a cold one while BL does the mail?" Cooter was the first to reply, "I'd love to fellas but some of us got to work. I'll be by later though. Dad may have a fit when I get there anyway. I sort of snuck off like I used to do at about age twelve." The others loaded up to head to the Boars Nest. BL called, "I'll meet ya there." —--------------------------- BL went to change into something comfortable and picked up Sadie “c’mon girl, time to go to work,” BL said, holding the door as Sadie bounded out, over to the GTO that was running still, hopping over the side. Next a quick stop at the post office to get the mail and they were off. First doggy delivery was for Widow Hawkins, “Take this to widow Hawkins,” BL said, giving Sadie the mail. Next was Hobbie, she hoped he wasn’t three sheets to the wind already, this early in the day. While BL did the mail, Bo and Luke were ready for a beer. They had been more worried than either would admit about trying to get BL out of hot water. When Sarah Jane came over to take the orders, Luke said, "Give us all a beer." Dixie corrected, "I'll have an iced tea instead." "Me too. I'll drive so BL can relax today." Daisy said. BL put Hardluck Jones’ monthly check in his mailbox, then went on down the road to Mary Lou Thompkins house, she moved back to Hazzard with her baby boy Jamie after getting custody back from the baby’s rich grandfather, that had Mary Lou declared an unfit mother because she was a poor country girl. Jamie was 4 now and was tickled to death, when Sadie brought Mary Lou the mail. —------------------- At the Boar’s Nest, Bo, Luke, Daisy and Dixie sipped on their drinks and talked while waiting on BL to finish the mail run. Luke asked Dixie, "Do you want anything for lunch or are yall going to eat somewhere out of here?" "I'm good, we'll probably find something somewhere that's different." Dixie replied. The guys got a second beer and the ladies got a refill on their tea as they continued to make small talk and talk about the hearing earlier. BL saved Clyde’s mail for last, stopping at the cabinet shop she was glad to see only one car there besides her father’s tan pickup “c’mon Sadie let’s go see grandpa,” BL chuckled, it bugged Clyde to no end when she called him Sadie’s grandpa. “Hi daddy, here’s your mail,” BL said, coming in the cabinet shop office, laying a small stack of envelopes on the desk. “Hi sweetheart, not still mad at me?” Clyde said. “I’m sorry, guess it was just that Davenport temper, coming out. I need to tell you something, I probably already should have but I didn’t want to worry you,” BL said, holding up her hand for Clyde to let her finish. She then told him about the mail fraud charges, Boss Hogg’s scam and all the details leading upto court a little while ago. “I didn’t want to worry you but I don’t think I could have done it all by myself either. Dixie has been staying, well living with me and Daisy has stayed with us a few nights. Dixie, Daisy and Luke all took the day off for court this morning. Cooter was there too he snuck out back of the garage,” BL smiled saying. “Me, Dixie and Daisy are going shopping for the afternoon, after I finish running the mail. They are waiting at the Boar’s Nest,with the guys,” BL said. “What are you going to do with Sadie?” Clyde asked. “Uncle Jesse is running the post office for me and said he’d doggysit too,” BL replied. “She can stay here, that way you can meet the girls sooner, without making an extra stop to drop her off,” Clyde said. “Ok sounds good, thanks Daddy,” BL replied, calling the post office telling Jesse the new plan. “Be good for grandpa,” BL said, stroking Sadie’s head. Clyde fumed, “I ain’t no dog’s grandpa.” —---------------------- It was about time for BL to arrive, Dixie took a sip of her tea listening to the others about Boss Hogg nearly ready to explode during court today. Even though Dixie hadn't eaten today she felt bloated again being followed by a sudden urge to have to pee really badly. She excused herself and wasted no time heading to the lady's room. She figured the bloated feeling meant she was due to start her period. While in the restroom she looked at her calendar figuring if that were the case she'd better get some supplies to take to BLs with her. She was right, she actually should have started yesterday! 'That's why I'm feeling bloated. Great, I should be cramping anytime now. Lovely, I get to deal with that on our day out.' Dixie thought and as she was washing up at the sink another thought, well actually the memory of her and Luke's 'swim' the night Bo and BL found them parked at the lake entered her mind. A blush, hot flash or all out panic rose from her toes to her face. Her breath caught in her chest and she actually held on to the counter to steady herself while trying to regain some of her composure. BL went straight to the ladies room when she got to the Boar’s Nest, not expecting to find Dixie in there not looking well but not really sick either “Dixie are you ok?” BL asked. —----------------------- Dixie took a couple more deep breaths and let them out slowly. She wasn't ever the type of female to have a panic attack, but if whatever that was wasn't one, she was sure she never wanted to have one. Fearing her voice at the moment, Dixie just nodded her head 'yes' that she was alright. She slowly took in another deep breath and let it out slowly again, then swallowed, and finally replied, "Yeah, I'm good now." She tried her best to shake it off and put 'all that on a shelf' and tried her best to convince herself that her period would be right along as she splashed her face with cold water and dried off while BL was taking care of why she had come to the restroom. “Ok” BL didn’t really believe all was good but decided she’d just watch Dixie for now. Dixie headed back to the table, saying as she and BL sat down “look who I found.” “Hey, I made it,” BL ordered an iced tea, seeing that’s what the other girls were drinking. She'd been drinking more beer than she normally did because her nerves were on edge because of the mail fraud mess. Daisy replied, "Good. We can take my car and leave whenever you are BL. But take your time and finish your tea." Dixie asked, "Where are we going to go? I know we are looking for drapes and stuff." “How about Capitol City, it’s not as far as Atlanta but has some good places to shop,” BL suggested, taking a drink of tea. “Sounds good to me,” Daisy replied. “Fine with me,” Dixie said. BL finished her tea and the girls headed to Daisy’s car. —-------------------------- The first stop was McKinsey’s department store “I need darker drapes for the livingroom, to keep the one woman neighborhood watch from spying,” BL said. Dixie nodded ‘yes’ adding “my room needs something darker too.” The girls headed to the curtains and drapes. With black out drapes found for the entire one side of the house, that mission was accomplished. BL had several things on her list so they were looking at everything from towels and sheets to pots and pans. Dixie told them she'd catch up as the tea from earlier was calling her. In the restroom she noted no sign of her period. She was sure she was worried about nothing and it would be along. —------------------------- Exiting the restroom without any sign of Daisy or BL, Dixie exited the department store and headed across the street to a pharmacy that she had seen when pulling in. She made her way to the feminine products and made a couple selections. She was about to leave the aisle when she saw something that caught her eye. She was more than sure that she was worrying for nothing, which would likely cause her to be later, but being out of the county she decided to entertain the possibility of maybe needing sometime in the future what she was looking at. Dixie began looking more closely at the pregnancy tests. She again started to just walk off, but there was the fact that the night at the lake happened and the first few times, no protection had been used. Surely she was being overly concerned, but at the last second grabbed four tests from two different manufacturers. She figured if she was around Luke, that she may need them at some point. Once outside she placed the four tests in her bag, then tossed the other products in the car and returned to meet the others. —--------------------- Dixie met BL and Daisy in the rug department, BL flipping through large area rugs that were hanging from the ceiling “what do ya’ll think of this blue one, for the livingroom?” BL asked. “I like it,” Daisy said. “It will go really nice with the blue curtains that have that same design pattern on them,” Dixie added. Daisy asked, "Where did you get off too?" Dixie replied, "Just been browsing and I ran across the street on an errand while you were both busy looking. BL asked,“do they have furniture in here? I know it won’t be cheap but I have one empty bedroom, if I don’t find anything, I’m sure Daddy will either make a suite or let me have one of his displays.” They had wandered into the bedding department now as they browsed around. Dixie and Daisy looked around Just browsing while BL may be doing more shopping and planning. After awhile Dixie asked, "So have you all thought about where we are going to eat?" Daisy shrugged her shoulders “Steakhouse or Ryan’s buffet?” “I’m good with either, wherever ya’ll pick is fine,” BL said. She was about finished with big items for the house, they hadn’t come across any furniture but there was a furniture outlet store around somewhere, she’d seen a billboard sign advertising it. Dixie asked, "Are you done looking around and ready to head out to eat or is there somewhere else you want to look at?" “I’m done here, let's go eat then we can stop at some other places if we want,” BL replied. They headed out to the car and fired up heading out to eat. —----------------------- They had decided on the buffet, Dixie started with a salad, cottage cheese and brown beans and cornbread. BL had settled on the fried chicken, fried potatoes, and a biscuit. Daisy had gone for baked ham,brown beans,mashed potatoes and cornbread. Dixie looked at the others plates and giggled just a little. "Don't get me wrong here and all and I know we came to a buffet so we could each eat what we wanted but with steak on the bar, we are eating brown beans and chicken. However, I do plan on steak in just a bit." "At least we didn't have to cook it. This is probably all I will have but Bo took me out for breakfast this morning remember, I might get dessert." BL said. "I wasn't really feeling breakfast, Luke had already eaten so I just had coffee. Now I could eat the cow." Dixie said. “Where do ya’ll want to go next?” BL asked. "I'm just along for the ride now that we got the curtains. Any place else you want to go BL?" Dixie asked. Daisy shrugged her shoulders “I’m just the driver.” “Ya’ll must have somewhere you want to go, thought this was supposed to be a girl’s day? I do want to go to that discount kitchen outlet store across the street, I want to get some pots and pans and such, so I can cook instead of living on tv dinners and frozen pizza,” BL said. —----------------------------- "I want a piece of steak before dessert." Dixie said as she got up to go to the steak bar, then stopped at the salad bar for a cup of Thousand Island dressing. She also spotted the fried okra. On the way by the dessert bar she grabbed a slice of cheesecake with strawberry sauce on it. Daisy also got a piece of steak and banana pudding as her dessert. BL got a piece of chocolate cake with chocolate frosting, sitting back down she gave Dixie a curious look, she must be trying to make up for skipping breakfast but the cup of Thousand Island dressing really had her baffled, she didn’t see anything Dixie had that she herself would put it on. Dixie cut a piece of steak and dipped it in the Thousand Island. She noticed BL giving her a strange look, "What?" “Nothing, I’ve just never seen anyone do that before,” BL said. “Don’t knock it til you try it.” Dixie dipped another piece, offering it to BL,”want a bite?” “No thanks, I'm good,” BL replied. —--------------------------- They finished up their meal and headed out to look at pots, pans and other kitchen gadgets. “I really only have to have some basic things but if ya’ll see something ya think I should get, tell me” BL said and added grinning “just don’t break the bank.” Getting a buggy she headed down the aisle. "Hey BL, how about a crock pot? I'll even buy. We can put stuff in and let it cook all night or all day while we are at work." Dixie said. “We? Are you moving in?,” BL teased. “Sounds good” BL answered Dixie’s question. “This is a must have and it makes upto 12 cups,” Daisy put the coffee maker in the buggy. Dixie replied. "I'm a vagabond. Yes, Daisy we need a 12 cup when you and the guys are around." “You need one of these,” Daisy held an immersion blender in her hand. “I’ll pay for it, consider it a housewarming gift. Think I’ll get me one too, they’re easier to store than a big blender,” Daisy added. “How about a microwave, BL? We can heat leftovers, when we don’t want frozen pizza or tv dinners but don’t want to cook, ” Dixie said. “I’m on board with that,” BL replied. Dixie noticed two buggies after they all loaded their selections in it, "Daisy is your trunk empty? Just remember ya'll we're not in a pickup here.” “Maybe we should have asked Luke, if we could borrow his pickup,” BL said but her look directed at Dixie said YOU even though her mouth said WE. “Yeah, well my spare and tire iron are in there but we should have enough room if BL don’t mind a few things in the back with her,” Daisy said. “I don’t mind if it’s a little cramped, it’s stuff for my house,” BL replied. Dixie grinned, "You said you were looking for curtains, not furnishing a house. Besides, how do you know getting Luke's truck isn't like getting General Lee from Bo.” “I didn’t furnish the whole house, just needed more than just curtains,” BL replied. Balladeer: BL couldn’t argue with Dixie about that last bit, getting General Lee from Bo was like pulling teeth. Dixie laughed at BL, "Well, true you did need some things. Ya'll keep looking, I'll catch up." She went to the restroom before heading off to who knew where was next. In the restroom, Dixie found no sign of her period. 'You have had to have miscounted. Calm down. Don't even think, what you are even considering. Just get home, relax, recount. The more you worry the later you'll be. I'm NOT late.' Dixie internal voices argued in her head. She brushed it off and caught back up with others. —------------------------- “I’m ready to head home if ya’ll are,” BL said. Daisy and Dixie said they were ready to head back too. Dixie wanted to get home and relax, maybe soak in the bath. Dixie offered, "I bet the guys are at the Boars Nest. If we stop by we can get them to unload the car." “Good idea, bet we can get them to help hang these curtains too,” BL said. Dixie had an idea too. "Daisy we need to make one more stop where I can get some beer, a cooler and ice all at the same place. I figure we may want to 'pay' the guys for their help." The girls had a good laugh as they headed to the store for beer. —--------------------------- Back at BL's, the first order of business was the drapes. BL got Bo busy with Daisy's help. Dixie went to her room to help Cooter and Luke. Luke said, "We have the hardware part, you just sit there and make sure the curtains are right." Dixie playfully corrected, "Drapes." Luke and Cooter looked at each other wondering what the difference was. After getting the new brackets up, they got the rod up. Dixie had put the drape hooks in each panel and told the guys how to hook them. After several minutes and much 'pain', Luke stood back looking at the curtains, "How's that? ... Dixie, how does that look?" When he got no answer the second time, he and Cooter turned at the same time to find Dixie with her head at the foot of the bed and her feet hanging off at the head, curled in a ball holding her pillow. Cooter stepped to wake her. Luke stopped him. He stepped closer, eased her shoes and socks off. Then seeing an extra blanket covered her up and gave her a gentle kiss. Before leaving the room he set her alarm for the next morning, cut off the light and closed the door so the conversation downstairs wouldn't wake her. Cooter stood by watching Luke with Dixie. At times he couldn't believe this was his life long friend that had fought many a fight with him, played football, and done all the other rough, tough, wild things with him being so gentle with Dixie. —------------------------- Downstairs BL, Bo and Daisy were hanging the new curtains and rolling out the new rug in the livingroom. “How does it look?” Bo asked. Daisy looked around the room, the geometric pattern on the rug and curtains gave the room an updated look but Miz Tizdale’s furniture still gave it a bit of elegance. “Looks great,” BL said. Seeing Luke and Cooter coming downstairs but no Dixie BL asked “where’s Dixie? I didn’t hear the shower cut on.” “Taking a nap, we got the curtains up and I asked her how they looked but she didn’t answer. When we looked she was sound asleep,” Luke said. Daisy looked at the clock, "Nap? I'm betting she is out for the night." "I set her clock if she doesn't wake up on her own." Cooter opened his third beer, "How many of these did she have?" He asked jokingly. BL and Luke both replied, "None.” BL was a little worried, Dixie hadn’t been herself all afternoon she’d gone to the bathroom alot now she was asleep. Largely due to Gloria's watching, the guys and Daisy slid out around eleven. BL let Sadie out, then locked up for the night. She peeked in on Dixie to find her still asleep before heading to her room. ^^^^^^^^^^^^

Next morning Mrs. Cravitz heard an awful racket, she looked out the window to see what it was and saw that it was the young Duke’s and Davenport's,shuffling vehicles. “Abner all them young people are leaving now” Mrs. Cravitz said. Dixie and Luke were leaving so early because they worked out of the county and Daisy had to open the Boar’s Nest for the breakfast crowd. Cooter headed to the garage to open a bit early or at least get some work done on a car brought in 2 days ago. Bo headed back to the Duke farm to get the chores done. “Well Sadie noone’s left but us, it’s still a little over an hour til we meet the mail truck, so what should we do?” BL said, petting Sadie on the front porch. BL reached inside for Sadie's leash, "Come on girl. Let's take a walk around the Square." —------------------ Luke was glad he got to base camp a bit early today. When he saw what was on the schedule he cursed himself. All the gear he'd had out of his truck had put it in disarray. Today, they would be dressing out like they would on a real fire with packs and equipment. They would hike out a bit from base camp and make a fire line. The pack Luke carried in addition to his equipment was in his truck under a bunch of other stuff and missing other items that he had failed to put back in the pack. Luke knew that everyone on his team admired his neatly packed, well stocked pack. He opened the side door of his truck and swore again. He hadn't been this unorganized since he joined the team. He dropped his tail gate and began emptying his truck's contents. Randy was the first to arrive to find Luke’s truck looking like a flea Market for Smokejumpers. "What are you doing Duke?" "I know how you like me to open my neat, well organized pack. Well this morning it's not. I'm trying to get it that way before the rookies show up." Randy grinned, "Luke, stop. This is much better. Let's go make coffee. When they get here, you can show them what and why you carry the stuff you have and how to pack it up." Luke liked that idea, besides he may get some help from the rookies as he showed them how to pack a lot in a small bag. "Alright." —---------------------- Randy handed Luke a cup of coffee and asked, "So why is your stuff unorganized? We haven't had a fire since last season." Luke replied, "Did a bit of camping." When Dixie got to work, expecting to be a floor officer, she found that due to call ins and off days, she was a senior officer and would be running the shift. Nothing she hadn't done was just a bit of a curve ball. A bit later, her supervisor came in and asked, "Are you in Control today?" She meant was Dixie running the Control room. Dixie replied giving her an answer with double meaning, "Yes, but things could fly apart at anytime." She meant she was indeed running the Jail"s Control room, but that being in control of the shift was undetermined. It was all in how things fell into or out of place. They both laughed and went on with their day hoping for a quiet one. —------------------------ Since there wasn’t anything at the house to cook with, nobody had eaten breakfast, they had gotten atleast a cup of coffee in them, thanks to Dixie but BL figured they would all grab something somewhere “stay here a minute girl,” BL said tying Sadie’s leash outside the coffee shop, going in for a doughnut and a cup of coffee. Luther was not a happy camper when he stomped into the garage, Dixie hadn’t called to say she was staying with BL again last night and Cooter was MIA all night. “Atleast you showed up for work,” Luther said. “Sorry Dad, lost track of time me and Bo and Luke were talking about the race in Placid county next month, over beers and I didn’t think it was a good idea to drive, these weren't watered down,” Cooter said truthfully. They had talked about the race, had a few beers and he had been with the Duke boys all night, he just left out their exact location. Luther grunted and got to work Jesse pinned Bo with a look as he sat at the table eating breakfast after he’d finished the chores, “I thought you young’ins was going to meet Dixie and try to get BL out of this mess,” Jesse said. "We did Uncle Jesse," Bo said, in mid chew while taking a drink of milk. "We got back to town late." "Don't talk with your mouth full." Jesse fussed. Bo swallowed and took another drink, "Sorry”. “You got back late but you didn’t come home.” Jesse said “No sir, me and Luke stayed with Cooter and Daisy stayed with BL and Dixie,” Bo said, with Bo reasoning it was just as he said because he, Luke and Cooter were downstairs while the girls were all upstairs. Bo took another big bite of his food. Jesse thought for a minute, "I thought those rooms above the garage were just being used for storage now. I haven't known you boys to stay up there in five years." Bo swallowed, saying truthfully but without thinking, "They are. We ain't stayed up there in awhile for sure." Bo said, taking another bite. “You said ya’ll stayed with Cooter but you say them rooms above the garage are full, is that right?” Jesse said. —--------------------------- Bo realized too late he’d stuck his foot in his mouth “yes sir,” Bo said. "So, ya'll went to Luther's?" Jesse asked slowly, but didn't think that was the case. “No sir,” Bo was starting to feel like a kid again. “So you stayed at BL’s too? Are you two TRYING to give the whole town something to talk about? Ruin the girls' reputations!?” Jesse said, getting worked up now. “It wasn’t like that Uncle Jesse…the girls all slept upstairs and me, Luke and Cooter slept downstairs,” Bo said. “That ain’t good enough! Folks will still talk bad about Dixie and BL,” Jesse kept fussing. “Like, I already told you Cooter was there too, he’s Dixie’s brother, BL’s cousin but he watches out for her like a brother,” Bo said, then added, " Just like we do Daisy." Jesse picked that up and ran with it too. "Right and speaking of Daisy, she was there too. Which puts her reputation in question." Bo frowned, not following Jesse's logic. "How?" "I count three girls, three guys. I end up with a lot of suspicion." Bo still didn't follow, Cooter was like a member of the family even to Daisy. He then thought about Dixie and BL being almost like members of the family too, to Daisy anyway but Luke and he saw them differently. “Daisy and Cooter, together?” Bo asked. “No way, wouldn’t nobody think of them together like that,” Bo said with all the conviction he could muster. —--------------------------- There was one person who could and would in town. Soon after BL went to work Mrs. Cravitz was outside pruning her flowers where she had a good view of all of Hazzard Square. BALLADEER: Rosco was out with Flash. Flash was taking him for his walk, don't ya know." As Rosco got near, Mrs. Cravitz called to the Sheriff..... “Sheriff, yoohoo Sheriff, can I speak to you for a minute?,” Mrs. Cravitz said. Rosco led flash across the street to Gloria’s yard “what can I do for you this fine day Mrs. Cravitz?” Rosco asked. “Sheriff I thought you should know, them Duke boys was back over at Miz Tizdale’s last night with them Davenport girls,” Mrs Cravitz said. Rosco thought about that for a minute, “Ain’t nothing I can do, it’s BL’s house now,sorry,” Rosco said remembering the chewing he had gotten from Miz Tisdale when he arrested the 4 young people. “Daisy Duke and Cooter Davenport was there too, ALL night, disgraceful. I heard them leaving this morning, you never heard such a racket.” "Now Mrs. Cravitz, you've heard Miz Tisdale’s motorbike leaving early for years now." Rosco dismissed the complaint ,there wasn’t much he could do. “I’ll have a talk with BL,” he said, more to appease Mrs. Cravitz than anything. —--------------------- Leaving Mrs. Cravitz, Rosco went over to the post office, there was noone there so he went in saying “BL, I had a complaint a little bit ago.” “About what?” BL asked. “About there being 6 vehicles at your place, that was disturbing the peace,” Rosco said. “Disturbing the peace?! I don’t think it’s anybody’s business but yes there was 6 vehicles and none of them are quiet really. You’ve known that since for forever,” BL said. Rosco scratched his head. She was right. "Six vehicles. There is no way that six cars fit in your driveway." “Some were parked on the street but those weren’t the only vehicles,” BL said. "Were they blocking anyone's driveway?" Rosco asked. "No, well just mine." BL said. BL was saved from answering anymore questions when Widow Hawkins came in to get her mail, "here you go Mrs. Hawkins, have a nice day ma'am," BL said. Widow Hawkins began asking questions about mailing a package. Rosco reminded, "BL, just remind those guys to keep it down." He said going out the door. BL nodded that she would. —----------------------- BL pulled in at the garage, she had a package for Luther, “Luther I got a package for ya, postmaster said it came in after the mail truck left for Hazzard this morning,” BL said, sitting the box on the desk. “Thanks BL,” Luther replied. “If you see Daddy, will you tell him I went by his house and got the rest of my clothes and stuff?” “Sure, if ya don’t mind my asking, why are ya moving out? BL didn’t want to get into a discussion about why she left home in the first place, Luther would likely take Clyde’s side. Still it was a reasonable question, “it’s alot easier going across town than worrying I’ll be late meeting the mail truck because I have to drive 5 miles to get to work. I better get going, see ya later Luther,” BL replied. “See ya” Luther waved at BL as she left. —------------------------- Things went about as Dixie had figured they would and of course she was a few minutes late leaving work. Luke and the other Smokekumpers had a long hot day of training. After a shower at work, he was more than ready for a cold beer at the Boar's Nest. Both Dixie and Luke were crossing into Hazzard from two different directions as fast as they dared. —------------------------ BL was first to the Boar’s Nest for a change and made her way to the back table,Luke was next “how about a couple beers Daisy,” Luke said when Daisy came over. “Coming right up sugar,” Daisy said. “Better make that 4, here come Bo and Cooter,” BL said. Dixie as usual had taken a few extra minutes before leaving work to change out of her uniform. She showed up a few minutes behind Bo and Cooter, wearing jeans and an off the shoulder top that she had worn a shirt over to get out of work, but had since shed. Even off duty she was very conscious just how much skin she showed anywhere near work. Daisy saw Dixie come in as she filled the beer mugs and added hers to the tray. "Hey, ya'll. Boy am I glad to be off work tomorrow." Dixie said. “I’m glad you’re off too, I don’t think I could go to court by myself,” BL said just as Daisy brought their drinks. “Don’t worry darlin’ I’ll be there,” Bo said. “Me too, that’s why I worked extra today, so I can be there,” Daisy said. "I took tomorrow off too." Luke said, then added more for Dixie’s benefit, "But,... I got to work this weekend." —--------------------- He took a long drink of beer, "We are getting this bunch ready to jump. God help them, and us." Bo asked, "That bad?" Luke shook his head 'no', "That young. I don't think I was ever that young and knew everything." Bo and Cooter looked at him like he had five heads, "Oh, yes you did!" BL and Dixie chuckled when Bo and Cooter spoke and Luke pretended to be offended. “I am gonna be there too little cousin, even if I have to be missing from the garage for a while,” Cooter said. “Thanks ya’ll, this would have drove me crazy without your support,” BL said. Luke took a long drink of beer from his mug as he saw none other than Sheriff Rosco P. Coltrane come in and head to the bar. "The heat must be getting to Rosco too. He's early." BL briefly told the others about her visit about so many cars being at her house the night before. Luke shook his head, "How about let's finish these and slide out real easy like." He finished his beer and put the empty mug back down. Everybody else at the table finished their beers and followed Luke out to the parking lot, “ya’ll can come to my place for a bit if you want but I don’t think ya better spend the night,” BL said. “I thought Rosco said for us to keep the noise down, how is that supposed to happen if we all show up together?” Bo asked. BL shrugged her shoulders saying “cut your engine’s and coast in.” Dixie suggested, "Why not park the General Lee, wrecker and Luke’s truck at the garage and walk over?" The guys all agreed so they headed for town. —-------------------------- The guys came walking down the sidewalk after parking at the garage,Luke carried a 6 pack of bottled beer. Dixie and BL were on the front porch watching Sadie in the front yard. “Hey ya’ll, BL I brought you a housewarming gift,” Luke said, handing BL the beer, BL sat the beer beside her “thanks Luke”. Inside, Dixie was sitting with Luke on the love seat. She looked at the blanket that Luke had hung over the thin curtain. "BL we've got to do something about those thin curtains BL agreed, "After tomorrow, assuming things go OK, like yall think they will. How about we get Daisy and go do some shopping this weekend?" Dixie knew Luke would be working, so she readily agreed, "Sure, sounds like fun." Bo added, as he wrapped his arm around BL a bit tighter, "Trust me. It's going to be just fine." "Abner, Abner, Abner you are not going to believe this!" Gloria had done her usual daily snooping, but as soon as she heard BL and Dixie’s cars pull in the driveway, she had been glued to the window. She was there long enough to see Bo, Luke and Cooter show up. "Those Duke boys and the mechanic are back over there and that oldest Duke has beer!" He turned the page of the paper and remarked, "I didn't hear them pull in." "They didn't. They walked up the street. It must be because I spoke to the Sheriff about all the noise this morning." Gloria replied. Putting his paper down for the first time, Mr. Cravitz, who had been dealing with his wife's snooping for years, said, "You did what?! Now, Gloria Mr. Davenport has been nothing but good to us for years keeping our vehicle running and Jesse Duke is one of the most upstanding men in this county. You are messing with the wrong bunch trying to push those young people's buttons." —--------------------- BL looked at the clock, Daisy should be off work and joining them anytime, “What does everybody want for supper? I got lasagna,chicken pot pie and frozen pizza, none of which requires a dish to cook it because they’re all frozen,BL said. Daisy came in before anybody made a decision, “hey ya’ll”. Daisy had heard BL telling about Rosco’s visit but hadn’t seen the guys' vehicles “how’d you fellas get here, I didn’t see your vehicles outside,” Daisy said. “Parked at the garage and walked,”Luke said. "Yes, it seems Mrs. Cravitz sicked Rosco on us." Dixie explained. “Oh no,”Daisy said. “Anyway Rosco warned me to tell ya’ll to keep it down, cos none of us drive anything that’s real quiet. I told Dixie and the fellas at the Boar’s Nest,” BL said. Daisy replied, "No, none of our rides are not quiet, that is for sure, but no one has tried to be loud or acted stupid either." “No we haven’t but everybody in the county knows Mrs. Cravitz is a cantankerous ole busy body,” Dixie said. “Yeah,” BL agreed. —---------------------------- Everyone could see how on edge BL was. Even Sadie was staying closer to her tonight. Daisy grabbed Cooter’s hand, "Come give me a hand in the kitchen." Cooter didn't have much choice in the matter but figured it was closer to refill. Dixie also recruited Luke's help to help her cover the window in her bedroom. Luke was getting things together to cover the window when Dixie got up on a chair to be able to fix one side of the blanket they were using to cover the window. Gloria was intent on her snooping. She saw a bedroom light come on. She couldn't make out the figures but could tell one was female, the other male. "Abner! One of those boys is UPSTAIRS with one of those girls!" She rushed to another room to get a better view. Dixie over extended her reach, lost her footing. Luke dropped the blanket and caught Dixie just as his feet got tangled in the blanket. They both ended up on the bed. —--------------------------- Downstairs BL and Bo were cuddled on the couch Bo held BL close now they were alone, talking quietly about nothing really. Bo leaned in, kissing BL softly. “Sounds like they are remodeling up there,” BL said when there was a thump overhead from Dixie’s chair falling over. “Mmhmm,” Bo sort of mumbled, he was doing his best to relax BL, not caring really what their cousins were doing. —------------------------------- Upstairs Dixie and Luke were in a tickling match, Gloria was getting a case of vapors as she watched the wild movements of silhouettes, not able to see their exact activity “Abner,ABNER! Bring me my smelling salts.” They weren't sure how they managed to go from almost breaking their necks to a tickling match but were giving as good as they were getting. They wiggled and squirmed trying to get untangled from the blanket they were attempting to hang up when their lips found each other, then their hands began to wander wildly. Just before reaching the point of no return, Luke groaned in frustration. He used all his control to push Dixie off. Breathlessly he said as he nearly whimpered, "Come on." Taking Dixie’s hand, he was up and moving to the door. Dixie was having a hard time keeping up with Luke as he drug her along, taking the stairs 2 at a time.”We’re going for a ride,we’ll be back later,” Luke called on the way out the door. Bo and BL looked at the closing door, wondering what was going on. A minute or so later, Luke's truck could be heard going around the square. BL asked, "What was that?" Bo replied, innocently, "I'm not sure, but Luke was in a heck of a hurry." Now, after Bo had time to think, "Ummmmmm, no it couldn't be that." “Couldn’t be what?” BL asked, then she said “oh” as her mind caught up with Bo’s. She was so worried about court tomorrow that she wasn’t thinking fast. —------------------------— A couple hours later Luke and Dixie came back in alot less of a hurry than they’d left in. Luke looked at the clock, it was only 9:30, still early but he didn’t want Rosco harassing BL again because Mrs Cravitz siced him on her because of him, Bo and Cooter “hey guys lets slide out,” Luke saw Bo open his mouth to protest “it’s still early I know but BL don’t need nomore trouble with Rosco,” Luke said. Bo frowned, one part of him knew Luke was right, the other part was just getting his jets warmed up. "But, Luke." Luke shut him down, "Later Bo, besides we've all got a long day ahead of us tomorrow." BL, "sighed heavily “Don't remind me. I still don't know what I'm wearing." Dixie added, "And I still need to cover that window until I can find heavy drapes." "Sh--!" Luke swore. "Stay out of that, ...." He was going to say chair, but knew he was wasting his breath. "Come on Cooter. You girls stay down here a minute." Luke and Cooter headed upstairs to cover the window. "It's not like it was my fault the chair threw me out of it." Dixie said to the retreating forms. —------------------- Luke and Cooter went to Dixie’s room, Luke picked the blanket up,off the floor handing one side to Cooter and in no time flat, Dixie had a makeshift privacy curtain until she could buy thick drapes. Finding another blanket, they did the same to the other window “All fixed, until you can do better,” Luke said when he and Cooter came back downstairs. “Thanks Luke,” Dixie said. The guys said their goodbyes and left, BL then said to Dixie and Daisy “ya’ll gotta help me pick something to wear tomorrow.” —-------------------- Dixie said, "That's more of Daisy’s department than mine but I'll get us all a beer and be up. Mrs. Cravitz wasn't happy when she saw dark coverings being put up on the windows on her side of the house. Then, she saw flickers of movement on the front porch, but the porch light wasn't on. She couldn't quite tell if someone was leaving or not. On the dark porch, Luke motioned the others to be quiet and stay against the wall of the house. He made his way to the side of the porch away from Mrs. Cravitz's house and stepped over the banister. Bo and Cooter followed. They snuck around the square avoiding Mrs. Cravitz view as they made their way to the garage. —------------------- At the garage Cooter had unlocked the small door planning to grab them all a beer. It was a nice night so Luke dropped his tailgate and took a seat. Bo was sitting on General Lee's front fender when Cooter came out with the beers and took a seat beside Luke. It was only now that the three noticed the wrecker was gone, but Luther's pickup was parked on the other side of the lot. They were all still sipping their beers and shooting the breeze when Luther pulled in with the wrecker. He walked across the parking lot, “How many of those have you drunk, Luke?” Luther asked. Just 2, this one and 1 at BL’s earlier, why?” Luke replied. “Was wondering if you’d take the wrecker tonight?” Luther said. “Sure I’ll take it, no problem,” Luke said, sitting down his beer, not planning to finish it now, because of Luther’s 1 beer rule when driving his wreckers. Luther handed Luke his wrecker keys, then got in his pickup leaving. Cooter got up asking, "Bo do you want another?" Luke took a sip of the beer he'd sat down, "Here, Bo finish this one." Bo took the mostly full beer, "I'm good Cooter." "Hey, before you lock up, I'll pull my truck in the bay and get it in the morning." Luke said. "I can drop you off or you can come on out with us." —---------------------------- BL’s room looked like a tornado had hit, there was clothes all over the bed and pretty much everywhere else off the floor. Dixie had shoved enough out of the way to sit on one corner and drink her beer. Not wanting to ruin Miz Tisdale’s furniture but not having coasters, BL and Daisy improvised, sitting their bottles on a pair of BL’s underwear. “Here try this,” Daisy said, handing BL a yellow dress with little white flowers.BL pulled off the baby blue top with cap sleeves and matching tiered skirt, putting the dress on, “how does it look?” BL asked. “Either one, they both look nice,” Dixie said, then got up and headed to the bathroom she returned and finished her second beer and said, "Something is going on. I think I'm gonna drink tea or something for a few days. There is no way I should be having to go to the bathroom after just drinking two beers. It did that the other night too." Luke dropped Cooter off at his house and headed to the house. Jesse was almost asleep when he heard General Lee and then the wrecker pull into the yard, but he didn't hear Luke's truck. “Probably an infection, drink water they say it flushes you out,” BL said, trying on the hunter green pants suit Daisy handed her. “This is it, the rest is jeans. How about shoes? Heels, flats, sandals or boots?” BL said. —-------------------- Bo and Luke figured Uncle Jesse was already in bed asleep, so they tried to be extra quiet going to their room. Uncle Jesse heard Bo step into the hallway, "Bo? Where's Luke? Is everything alright?" "I'm here, Uncle Jesse. Everything is fine." Luke said, picking the phone up off the table and bringing the cord under their bedroom door. "I have the wrecker and the phone will be in our room so it won't wake you if I get a call." Jesse was fine with that. He could now figure Luke's pickup was at the Davenports or at the garage. Either way his boys were home safe. He was surely glad that it seemed Luther had somewhat a change of heart where Luke was concerned, which had been a lot of years coming. "Night boys." In unison, they replied, "Night Uncle Jesse." —-------------- In their room both guys changed into pajama bottoms. Luke laid his jeans, shirt and boots where he could grab them in the dark. Bo had turned his bed down and sat down but made no move to lay down. Luke was in bed under the covers, ready for the light to go out but Bo was still sitting there not moving to turn out the light. "Bo, what are you doing?" "Thinking." Bo replied. Worrying might have been more accurate. Luke turned on his side and faced Bo, "OK, thinking about what?" "BL, what if we are wrong about tomorrow?" Bo asked worriedly. “We ain’t wrong Bo, those pictures is hard evidence that Boss scammed those people. You heard’em they are gonna be at court to testify that BL had nothing to do with it. Now lay down and go to sleep so we can get an early start on chores, BL is gonna need you with her as soon as you can be in the morning,” Luke said. —----------------------- “How about these?” Daisy said, holding BL’s black suede ankle boots. [some call them booties] Dixie remarked, "Just remember no underwired bra." BL replied, " I need that tonight." Dixie grinned wickedly. Luke picked up the phone, remembering he hadn’t told Bertha Bradley, the night operator at the Hazzard phone company, to put all wrecker calls through to the farm, he had the wrecker tonight. “Bertha this is Luke Duke, put all wrecker calls through to the Duke farm,” Luke said, then hung up after Bertha said she would. Luke looked over, he knew Bo was still awake, but at least he was laying down and quiet. Luke did the same thing. He covered up, turned on his side, snuggled his pillow and just as sleep was about to take him away, the phone rang. "Duke residence, this is Luke." Bertha, the operator, said, "Luke, Mr. Peabody just heard on the CB that Rosco needs a wrecker out by the lake. He said you'd see his lights." Luke was shaking his head 'yes', figuring the lights were likely the only thing of the car he'd see. "Thanks Bertha." Then, he said to no one as he dressed. “The man has all day to wreck, but no he waits til I get the keys." Luke was surprised when he got to the lake. Rosco's car was fine. He actually had an impound. The car was sitting not ten feet from where he had parked with Dixie, not even two weeks ago. 'NOTE to self. Bad, very bad parking place.' Luke thought as he hooked up the car. Luke couldn't help but notice a very embarrassed looking couple in the back of Rosco's patrol car. By the time Luke got back in bed for a second time it was late or maybe even early. He was almost out when he heard Bo get up. ^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^

Next morning as predicted, Sadie had her up in plenty of time to grocery shop, “See you after work, Dix”, BL said as they went to their cars, “see you after work,stay out of trouble”Dixie said, getting in her car. “Where’s the fun in that?” BL laughed following Dixie into town, the cousin’s turning opposite ways at the church. Dixie checked the clock and speeded up just a bit to make sure she would be on time. Meanwhile, over at Rhuebottom’s, BL wasn't the only Davenport out early. Luther saw her car outside as he pulled up. He had stopped by on his way to the garage to get some things for the garage that he never remembered to get unless he'd been out of them for a day or so, like toilet paper, sticky notes, paper towels for the bathroom that had been used when the toilet paper ran out and lights bulbs. He had already taken everyone from up stairs to replace the blown ones down stairs. Once inside he saw his niece grocery shopping. "Morning BL. What brings you in here this early." “Morning Luther, just picking up some things before work,”BL said, glad she didn’t have anything in her buggy yet that couldn't be for both home or the post office. Unsure whether he’d talked with Clyde she didn’t want to get into a discussion about the situation nor did she have time. “I best get this done so I ain’t late for work,” BL said. Luther said before she could step away, "I got a strange note from Dixie last night. It said she was at your place." BL asked, "What's strange about that?" Luther said, "The fact it was attached to a beer where several more had been. She's never taken beer from the house to ya'lls place." BL swore under her breath, there was no way to explain without outright lying or telling the complete truth, atleast those were the only options she saw at the moment… “I signed an agreement with Miz Tisdale about her house and we were there,” BL said at last, proud of herself, her answer was truthful but vague. Luther nodded, taking the information at face value for now since several others were coming in to shop early. "Alright." —------------------------- At the Duke Farm, Bo was enjoying a few extra minutes in bed as Luke had gotten up extra early to do all the morning chores before he left for work. BL was glad her Uncle had seemed to believe her story, not having any pots and pans, she went to the frozen foods, getting some tv dinners, a frozen lasagne and a family size chicken pot pie, and another frozen pizza. That should be enough for supper a few nights for herself, Dixie and Bo and Luke if they came over. Shopping done, BL went back to the house to put it away. “C’mon Sadie, let's go to work.” BL called to her dog. Making it just in the nick of time, BL hurried to park in back and leave Sadie inside “Morning Sam” BL said as the driver handed her a sack of mail. “Good morning Miss Davenport,” Sam answered. —-------------------- Bo had managed to sit down and try his best to find the people he had received the $100 from. He had planned on doing something special for their fan clubs until he found out there weren't any fan clubs for him, at least wise that he knew of. Pulling up in front of the Post Office, Bo climbed out of the General Lee and went inside. He began petting Sadie while BL waited on another customer. “Morning Bo”, BL said when the customer left. “Good morning” Bo flashed his trademark smile. “Here’s that list, those I could remember, anyway,” Bo handed her the list. ”Thanks” BL put the list in her back pocket. BL thought for a minute. She had seen some phonebooks under the counter. "Say,Bo, are you in a big hurry?" Bo replied, "No, why?" BL handed him a phone book and she took the other. She then pulled out the list of names and addresses Bo had given her. “See if you can find phone numbers for these people, if not maybe Luke’s newspaper friend can look them up on the computer or something,”BL said, beginning to look through the phonebook. “Good idea”, Bo said looking through the other phonebook. BL called Tri Counties and got Dixie on the phone. "Where can I meet you after work?" Dixie gave BL the name of a food place near the jail. She knew better than to ask why over the Hazzard phone system. BL hung up the phone and told Bo where Dixie had said to meet her after work. “I’m going with you,” Bo said. “Ok, tell Daisy she can come too, if she don’t have to work tonight. ‘I’ll tell Cooter he can come too, that is if I can talk to him, without Luther around. Luther seen me at Rheubottom’s this morning buying some groceries, thought he’d give me the third degree but he asked a few questions then went on with his shopping and let me finish mine. Dixie can call Luke and tell him, we are meeting up there in Tri-counties today instead of the Boar’s Nest or garage so we can talk private.” BL said. “Sounds like a plan, what time we leaving?” Bo asked. “Between 4 and 4:30. Do me a favor, ask Uncle Jesse if he minds puppy dog sitting. I don’t want to leave Sadie alone in an unfamiliar house for longer than I have to, if I have to. Ask him too if he’ll take over here, so I don’t have to close early,” BL said. “Sure thing honey. I better get back to the farm, see you later,” Bo said, heading to General Lee. —--------------------------- Cooter came in the post office about 11 to get the garage mail. Cooter petted Sadie while BL finished up with a customer. When they were alone BL told him about meeting Dixie at the food place near Tri-Counties jail and that Bo and possibly Daisy was going too. “Count me in,” Cooter said. BL told him when her and Bo were leaving. At 10 minutes to 4, General Lee and Jesse’s pickup parked in front of the post office. “Jesse Duke reporting for post office and puppy dog sitting duty ma’am” Uncle Jesse said, coming behind the counter. “I’m much obliged Uncle Jesse,” BL said. —------------------------- The training class that Luke was helping with had broke for lunch. Several had gone outside to smoke or talk on their phones. A few had gone out for food. Of the instructors, Luke had stayed behind with the rookies. Luke rarely got personal calls at work, so when the girls from Human Resources told him he had a call, he figured it was something to do with work. He picked up on the closest extension, "This is Duke." He said in way of greeting since the person had already gotten the official greeting from the girl in Human Resources. Dixie thought that Luke sounded very official when at work, "Hey, I just got a call from BL. The others are meeting me over here if you want to take the long way home. We're gonna meet near here at Mel’s Diner." Luke was just a bit surprised to hear Dixie's voice on the other end of the line, but didn't let on, "Yeah, ok. I can do that. Do you know what's up?" "With the Hazzard phone system. All I got was that Bo, Cooter, Daisy and BL were all likely coming. Dixie explained. Luke nodded as if she could see him, then reached around and rubbed the tension in the back of his neck that he just realized was there. "I'll be there as soon as we get things closed up here." Dixie replied, "See ya then. I hope I caught you at lunch and not in the middle of class." "You did. Be careful over there, ok?" Luke said. Dixie smiled, it was nice to know someone worried about her just as long as they didn't get over protective. She knew that part of that meant keeping them all on the outside of her facility. "Remember it's you that jumps from perfectly good planes into forest fires." Luke replied, "That's the easy part. It's as easy as falling off a log, but we're not jumping for a few more weeks yet." —------------------------------- The Hazzard crew arrived at Mel’s Diner at 5 o’clock they had run into some road construction and had moved at a snail’s pace for about 10 miles. Upon entering they looked for an empty out of the way table, spotting one in the back corner. As soon as they were seated a waitress came to give them menus and take their drink order, “I’m Angie, I’ll be your waitress this evening, what can I get ya’ll to drink?” Daisy said “I’ll have a sweet tea”. “Make that 2 sweet teas. We have 2 more coming as soon as they get off work,” BL said. Cooter and Bo both wanted a root beer. Angie checked to make sure she had the order right and then went to get the drinks. Dixie, who worked nearby, had gotten busy the last part of her shift. She arrived just as the drinks arrived. "I'll have a sweet tea with half lemonade please." She saw Luke pull in. "He looks hot. Make that 2 half and half teas." The waitress agreed with Dixie, "Yes he does look very hot." As Luke walked up to the table everyone was laughing at the young girl's comment about Luke. "What's so funny?" Luke asked. “You have an admirer,” Daisy said. The young girl brought Dixie and Luke their half and half teas and menus for everyone. “If you need anything just give me a holler,” the young waitress looked right at Luke as she spoke, setting the table off in another round of laughing. “She can’t be more’n 15, just a kid,” Luke said. "So why are we all here?" Luke asked. —------------------------- Bo pulled out a list of names, addresses and phone numbers that they had added to several of the names. Luke looked closer at the list,"Bo, what am I looking at?" Dixie had leaned in closer to see the list Luke was holding. “That is a list of people, their addresses and phone numbers that sent $100 to PO Box 100 thinking they were going to get a certificate for a deed on land and one of them tiny houses,” Bo said. “Now we just got to contact them,set up meetings to show them pictures you took and get them to come to court Thursday. Only problem is, we only have tomorrow to meet with them.” BL said. Luke looked around for a pay phone, and being the closest thing the county had to being a truck stop, it had four payphones and a counter nearby. One phone had an out of service sticker on it. " "Well, ladies, I'll get the quarters. On second thought, here Cooter." Luke handed Cooter some money. "Go get some quarters and us another round of drinks. I'll keep up with the list while you girls make some calls." —------------------------------ Bo asked, "What should I do?" Luke replied automatically, "Just look pretty Bo." Cooter took the money from Luke and walked toward the counter where Angie was at the register “Leaving already?,” Angie asked, a little disappointed she wasn’t getting to sell the group a burger or maybe the day’s plate special. “No ma’am I need quarters for the payphones and refills for the table,” Cooter said. Angie took the money and gave Cooter two rolls of quarters, “I’ll bring the drinks in a moment,” Angie said. Cooter took the quarters back to Luke. Angie brought the drinks a couple minutes, asking “can I get ya’ll anything else, menus?” Daisy, Dixie and BL started dialing the phones. Cooter shrugged at Angie's question. Cooter decided that they would know more in a bit. " "We'll let you know in a few minutes." By the time the girls were done on the phones they had five people willing to meet them to talk. It would take them a bit to get there so the group decided to order. —---------------------------- “What can I get ya’ll?” Angie asked. “Burgers and fries ok?” BL asked, wanting to get on the road. Six different orders would take up extra time. Everyone agreed, discussing their day while they ate. Finished and ready to leave Luke put $5 under his plate for a tip. “I got to go to the bathroom before I go anywhere, all that half and half tea is going straight through me” Dixie said. “I need to go too.” BL said. “Me too,” Daisy said, the three of them going to the ladies restroom. The group then headed out for their meeting, the meeting was in the rich part of town, no wonder they’d bought what they thought were luxury vacation homes, they could afford them. “This must be it,” BL said when Bo parked General Lee in front of an office building. One of the 5 who had agreed to meet, was the company president, had offered the use of the building’s conference room. When everyone laid everything out, things were making sense. All five were neighbors, who had passed the information from one to the other. Everyone there wanted to make sure that BL was clear and that Boss got his 'comeuppance'. Everyone was available and could be in Hazzard for court except the company president who typed up a letter for BL to take to the Judge. With everything settled the group headed back to Hazzard. —----------------------------- Back in Hazzard everyone went to Miz Tisdale’s. As usual Gloria Cravitz was watching out her window and saw General Lee and Luke’s truck arrive at the same time as Dixie,Bo had let BL off at the post office to get her car, so she could pick up Sadie at the Duke farm. “Abner them Duke boys are back over at Miz Tisdale’s but only one of them Davenport girls,” Gloria said. “I’m sure the other one will be along,” Abner said, never looking up from his newspaper. A couple minutes later Daisy's roadrunner and Cooter’s truck pulled up in front of the house “Abner, Abner 2 more vehicles just pulled up” Gloria was about to get a vapor lock, when she saw Daisy and Cooter. “That’s nice dear,” Abner was only halfway paying attention to his wife’s hysterics. BL was just returning with Sadie as Cooter was heading to his truck,“wrecker call?” BL asked. “Nah, just going to get us some beer,” Cooter said, getting in his truck. —---------------------------- Inside, BL dropped onto the couch beside Bo,laying her head on his shoulder, his arm around her holding her close, “I’ll be glad when Thursday comes and goes, so I can put this mail fraud mess behind me,” BL said. Bo, Luke Dixie and Daisy nodded. Cooter came in saying “honey I’m home”, he was carrying 4 plastic grocery bags,each with a 6 pack of bottled beer. “Had to go over to Rheubottom’s, we were out at the garage,” Cooter said. Luke was sitting on the loveseat with Dixie. He reached for a beer. "This is nice. No Ernie." Dixie replied, "No Dad." “No Rosco harassing ya’ll” Daisy addeed. “Not unless Mrs. Cravitz calls him again,” BL said. Dixie got up, "Anyone need a refill when I come back?" She asked before heading to the bathroom. Cooter and Bo both said they did. Luke got up, "I got ya." He said picking up the empties. Luke came back with refills and Dixie was still in the bathroom. Several minutes later, Dixie returned, kicked off her shoes and curled back up beside Luke as she picked up her second beer. “Anybody want another?” Bo asked getting up after a while. “No thanks I got to work tomorrow,” Dixie said. “Me too,” BL said. “No more for me either, I swapped shifts with Betsy Ann and have to work the breakfast shift,” Daisy said. Luke and Cooter took him up on the offer. Gathering the empties, Bo went to the kitchen, bringing back another beer for Luke and Cooter, sitting on the couch beside BL, putting his arm around her shoulders, holding her close. Cooter asked Bo, "So are ya'll going to run the race next month over in Placid?" Bo grinned, "I,..." He stressed, "want to." He was looking dead at Luke as he spoke. Luke gave him a look, "Now, Bo, we've talked about this. I don't care one bit to help get General Lee ready to show this young bunch of know it alls, just how fast the Ole boy still is. It is just I can't promise I'll be here to be the crew chief." Bo said glumly. "I know Luke but you've sorta gotten me spoiled. But, I would sure like to put the General on the track with those young punks." Luke asked, "Cooter, are you planning on running anything?" "Naw, I hadn't really put anything together. There hasn't been any competition where you guys haven't been on the track." Luke looked at Bo, they both looked at Cooter. "What?" They both with the girls, said, "You could be the crew chief if Luke ain't here." ”I could?” “Yeah, Bo couldn’t get a better crew chief, you’d know if there was a problem right off,” Luke said. Cooter thought for a minute “Bo you got yourself a crew chief, even if Luke can’t be there,” Bo let loose a rebel yell, "YEHAA". Balladeer:Atleast that's what folks in these parts call it. —--------------------------- Sometime later Daisy yawned “is it ok if I stay the night? I don’t think I can hold my eyes open to drive home.” Daisy asked. “Sure, I only got 2 beds so you’ll have to share with me or Dixie,” BL said. Mrs. Cravitz was still glued to the window, "Abner! All those kids are still over there! It's a weeknight. There are three couples over there. It just ain't right. It's nearly eleven o'clock." "That's nice, Dear." He said. He had put cotton in his ears hours ago when he turned the TV to his ballgame. Dixie got up from her place beside Luke and went to the bathroom again. Then came back from the kitchen with a large glass of water. "I think I'm getting a kidney infection or something. You'd think I drank a case of beer, not two." Luke said, "More like three, but who's counting." Dixie had been snitching drinks of his beer occasionally since declining another beer earlier. The guys talked awhile longer, Dixie was curled up next to Luke listening. Luke looked at the clock noticing it was getting late, him, Dixie, Cooter and BL had to work tomorrow. “Bo you still got your sleeping bag in General Lee,”Luke asked. “We best be getting settled, it’s getting late and some of us have to work tomorrow,” Luke said. Standing the two of them went out to their vehicles “Abner looks like two of them are finally leaving. About time too, it's nearly midnight.” Mrs. Cravitz reported from her post. Luke got his bag of spare clothes out of his truck, so he could shower before work. He got a couple blankets too. Still at the window Mrs. Cravitz was about to have a fit, seeing them go back into the house. But seeing the lights go out really got her goat. —----------------------- Inside BL was still curled up on the couch as Luke came back inside. Luke looked at how the furniture was arranged. "Alright guys. If we can get these ladies to move, we can move this over here, that over there and put the sleeping bags here so we aren't sleeping on the furniture and breaking it down." Dixie looked at her seat on the love seat. "What's wrong with us just cuddling back up the way we were?" Luke said, " I don't know about furniture and stuff but I've heard it all my life that sleeping on couches breaks them down. This is good furniture that Miz Tisdale nor BL need or want messed up." Dixie sighed but got up so the guys could rearrange the furniture. "OK, I can still camp out with ya'll down here." Luke shook his head, " This ain't the first time we've slept under the same roof. It won't be the last. Go to bed, sleep and get some rest for work." Mrs. Cravitz grabbed her sweater. "Where are you going?" Abner asked. "To get the cat." She replied. "We don't have a cat." He said to the closing door. She went out to her porch, the lights were all out on this side of the house. Walking up the sidewalk, there were no lights on in the front of the house. She crept down by the side of the house. No lights. She even crossed the back yards and came in her back door. "Abner there ain't a light on in that house over there. Abner. Abner? Abner!" She found her husband already asleep with cotton balls in his ears. ^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^

The next morning BL woke with a pounding headache and the morning sun full on her face. “Sh@#!” BL swore. “What’s the matter darlin?” Bo yawned. BL was reaching for her clothes, what she could reach and keep her modesty anyway, “I’m going to be late, it’s my first day completely solo. Miz Tisdale left for her sister’s, yesterday.” BL said. “Relax, me and the General will get you there on time”, Bo said,pulling on his boxers. “Could you just drop me off at Dixie’s, I need my car to deliver the mail.” BL said. “Dixie, can I grab a shower and borrow some clothes, instead of wasting time going home,getting ready then going to the post office.” BL asked. Dixie was in a good mood, even though her night alone with Luke hadn't gone as planned, “sure just go on into my room and help yourself. You know where the spare key is, right?” Dixie replied. —---------------------------- Luther Davenport was a pretty early riser even though his farm wasn't really a working farm. He came downstairs, put on coffee to make and from years of habit looked out of the kitchen window to see the wrecker, Cooters truck and both the girls' cars. Luther was peaceful and content. He was glad the three kids had been so quiet last night when they came in. He poured his coffee and took his normal seat at the table trying to figure out what he was going to fix for breakfast after he'd had his first cup of coffee. ”Just drop me off at the end of the drive and I’ll walk to the house from there”, BL said as Bo was taking her to Dixie’s to get her car. “I can take you on up to the house darlin, no problem I got plenty of time”, Bo said. “I don’t know if Luther or Cooter one, might be home. I got a better chance not being seen, at least till I’m in the house if they don’t hear the General.” BL smiled, leaned over kissing Bo’s cheek. A few minutes later, Bo pulled over, halfway down the drive, reasoning BL could get to the house and out undetected maybe, if she didn’t have as far to walk. One last kiss and BL slid out of the General, heading for the Davenport farmhouse. Luther by now had fed the chickens, gathered the eggs, and now had a skillet full of eggs frying for scrambled eggs. He'd been in his house without his wife for years now and still no matter how he tried to make eggs they came out scrambled. He was in a far better mood this morning than he was waking up in the Hazzard jail yesterday morning. He looked at the ceiling. The house was still pretty quiet for a Monday morning. He was sure the smell of coffee and eggs would have gotten the kids attention by now. Then he heard the faint sound of the front door knob. Luther stepped to see through the house to see BL cross the room and start up the stairs. "BL?" Balladeer:"It was 2 letters, but there were way more questions behind them. —------------------------- BL swore under her breath, before turning around to face her uncle,”yeah?” “What are you sneaking around for?” Luther was looking for any signs he was being lied to. “Thought you might not be up just yet,didn’t want to bother you on my way to the bathroom,” BL tried to keep a neutral expression, at least she wasn’t telling a big fib, she was going upstairs to the bathroom. “Do I smell eggs and coffee?”,BL hoped to ward off anymore questions she didn’t want to answer, by asking a question of her own. Luther ignored the breakfast menu question and asked, "If you are on your way to the bathroom, just where might you be coming from?” BL felt her head start pounding harder, this morning just kept getting worse, “Hounddog lake”, BL said quietly, eyes on her boots. She would have given a nearby location between mail drop offs but Luther would know she wasn’t delivering mail this early. "Hounddog lake?" Luther must not have been good and awake yet without his second cup of coffee because BLs answers weren't fitting together in his mind. "Your car has been here for two days. So how did you get here from the lake?" BL took a deep breath,blowing it out slowly. Clyde would probably hear about this before she got halfway down the drive, “Bo dropped me off down the drive and I walked to the house,” BL said. "Bo? Bo Duke? Dropped you off coming from Hounddog lake?" Luther didn't need to ask anymore questions as he brushed by BL taking the steps two at a time. His boots thundered up the steps, he flung Dixie's bedroom door open to see the beds made and the sewing stuff still in disarray. He was back down the stairs again two at a time. Out the front door he went slamming the door so hard the glass in it rattled. BL had frozen on the stairs when Luther went by her twice. Hearing the bang of the front door then the wrecker started up Cooter had nearly fallen out of bed. He got his feet under him, stepped in his pants and started downstairs carrying his boots and shirt. Seeing BL, he said, "What was that?" BL managed, "Tornado Luther." —-------------------------- “We got to get to Dixie first”, BL said, “Why?”,Cooter looked confused, Luther was mad about something but he'd never hurt Dixie. BL was acting like he might, BL gave Cooter the short version. “Shoot fire and save box matches!”, Cooter said, shirttails flapping on his open shirt as he ran out the door. BL hurried to the CB home base in the kitchen, showering and getting ready for work, forgotten “Little Shotgun, Lost Sheep 1, ya’ll got your ears on? There’s a tornado headed your way.” BL hoped the home base was working and that Dixie was listening and had caught on that Luther was headed that way. —-------------------------- Luke watched Bo pull out, "So what are you wanting to do today." "Stay right here." Dixie said snuggling in nothing but Luke's blanket. Luke was a bit more practical, "Instead of me building the fire back up for coffee and hoping to catch a fish for breakfast, how about you take a few minutes to pull yourself together, I'll toss this stuff in the truck and make sure the fire is out. I'll take you out for breakfast and we can go print out those pictures for BL. I think it's about time you meet my crew." It wasn't what Dixie wanted to do but she agreed as she picked up her clothes. A bit later, Luke's truck was headed out of the county heading toward Chickamahoney. —------------------ Luther slowed the wrecker just enough he didn’t miss Luke’s truck, there was no sign of the F250. There were tracks up ahead going toward Chickamahoney, Luther couldn’t be positive they didn’t take one of the side roads though so he followed the tracks until the forks of the road. The left fork dead ended apiece up the road, the rlght led straight to Chickamahoney and the tracks lead that way. Letting loose a string of curses, Luther banged his hand on the wrecker’s steering wheel, making a U-turn,he headed for the garage. —------------------ Back at the Davenport farm, BL had given up trying to reach Dixie from the house CB base and had gone upstairs for a quick shower and to get ready for work. Picking up the CB mic in her car, BL tried to reach Dixie and Luke on her way into town, “Little Shotgun this is Sweettalker and boy do we need to talk”. All BL got in response was the crackle of static. A few more tries got the same results, “they must be out of range, dangit!”, BL muttered to herself, hanging up the mic. Seeing the mail truck turn the corner, BL parked out front of the post office, hurting to unlock the door she’d park in back later. Bo went to the farm and did the morning chores then went to town to check the mail. Luther parked the wrecker, flung open the bay doors and tossed the open sign in the window as he stomped with every step. Cooter pulled in exactly five minutes late since he had waited for BL to get out of the bathroom. He saw Luther stomping around inside the garage and knew it was going to be a day. Luke pulled over near base camp at Denny's so they could grab a good breakfast. He and Dixie both got a large coffee to go as they headed to base camp. Once there, Luke took out the camera and he and Dixie went inside for her to meet his crew. Dixie couldn't help being just a bit surprised to find that two of Luke's immediate crew were females. One of which he had handed the camera off to so that she could pull the pictures off and print them for him. “This is my girlfriend Dixie Davenport,” Luke said, introducing Dixie to the group. —------------------------------. BL had just finished sorting the mail when Bo came in, “how’s it going darlin?” Bo asked. BL didn’t even bother with Miz Tisdale’s old regulations “just dandy Bo..Luther caught me sneaking in,proceeded to ask questions and I didn’t want to tell lies, he stormed out, ready to kill. I tried to warn Dixie and Luke, he was headed their way but couldn’t get anything but static,” Bo gave her an I’m sorry look. “Now I’m going to pick up Sadie and deliver mail and I will probably see my own Dad but I can’t deal with him till after work.” BL blew out a long breath. “Speaking of mail, got any for me and might as well get the farm’s while I’m here,” Bo asked. BL handed him a small stack “that’s for the farm”, “and this is yours”, BL handed over a mail bag a little bit less than half the size of a regular mail bag. Bo asked, "Ain't that a lot of mail for just me? Are you sure it's all mine?" BL shrugged, "It's all for your box." —----------------------- Cooter had no idea that the girls had been out all night, so he assumed Luther was mad at him for being late, "Look Dad. I was only five minutes late. I'll stay over this evening and close up." Luther stomped some more, "You mean you aren't going to the wedding?" "Wait. What? What wedding is that?" Cooter asked. He hadn't heard anything about a wedding, besides who gets married on a Monday. Luther replied, "BL said Dixie was at hounddog lake with Luke Duke. I got there. Seen where they had been parked. I followed those 6 ply tires Luke runs to the cut off to Chickamahoney. Any other reason you'd figure those two might be heading that way?" Something didn't seem right with his Dad's assumption, but Cooter couldn't come up with any other reason. "Nah, but that just don't seem right either.” Cooter kept trying to come up with another reason, any reason at all besides eloping, Dixie and Luke would go to Chickamahoney but getting nowhere he called to Luther “I’m going to get the mail,Dad”. If anyone knew what his sister was upto, it’d be his cousin the girls were as thick as thieves. “Alright, what do you know?”,Cooter demanded. “Know about what Cooter?”, BL said. “Dixie and Luke running off to Chickamahoney to get married.” Cooter said. “What…get married? Dixie ain’t said nothing to me about getting married”, BL had no clue about any wedding and she was almost positive Dixie would have asked her to be maid of honor and Luke would have asked Bo to be his best man. “Luke didn’t say nothing to me neither”,Bo said. —----------------------------- Daisy popped in to mail a letter, "Luke didn't say anything to you about what?" Replying as if it was buying a stamp, Bo replied, "About eloping." Daisy squealed, "Oh my Goodness! REALLY?! Luke elpoed?!!" “Looks that way, Dixie didn’t tell me either,” BL said. “I got to order a cake, what kind do you think they'll want?” Daisy was turning toward the door, when BL grabbed her arm. “Hold up just a minute Daisy, there’s a reason they kept it quiet, if we go giving them a party before they tell us,even if it’s just family they might not be so happy about it”, BL said. “I guess so”, Daisy said, more subdued. —----------------------------- BL looked at Bo, "Can you find them?" Bo looked from Daisy to BL, "I should be able to." That was good enough for BL. She was already making a sign for the window. 'Closed for family emergency. Mail will be delivered this afternoon.' "Let's go Bo. Come Sadie." Daisy said, "I'm going too." Cooter added, "Count me in. I'm not dealing with Luther today." They all headed to General Lee with two separate conversations going. No one noticed Mrs. Sims, the town busybody as they walked by, heard the distinct phrase 'Nice day for Dixie and Luke to elope.'] If the search party had been paying attention to who they met, one of them would have stayed in town to do damage control. Mrs. Sims was about to burst by the time she reached the beauty parlor, the best place in a small town, to hear the town gossip “guess what I just heard?” not waiting for a response from anyone she said “Luke Duke and Dixie Davenport eloped.” There was a flurry of talk, most everyone remembered the past and the rumors back then. —----------------------- Mrs. Sims continued, "Then Bo and Daisy Duke, BL and Cooter all took off heading out of town and they were heading toward Chickamahoney. Lulu Hogg was just coming out from under the dryer. Being the Hazzard Commissioner's wife, she refrained from being part of the general gossip. She went right home and promptly placed a call to Jesse Duke. —------------------------- Jesse just happened to have been in the house when the phone rang, "Duke Farm." “Hello Jesse, this is Lulu Hogg. I just heard that congratulations was in order”, Lulu said. “Congratulations? What for?”,Jesse asked. “Luke getting married.” “Luke WHAT?!” “Lydia Sims passed Daisy, Bo and Cooter and BL Davenport on her way to the beauty parlor, she said they were talking about Luke and Dixie Davenport eloping, one of them was saying it was a nice day for Luke and Dixie to elope.” “Well thank you for calling Lulu, I’ll give Luke your message. I gotta go now, bye”, Jesse hung up the phone. Jesse grabbed his red cap, headed out the back door at a trot, "Move Maudine I got to go see what that mule headed youngin is up to." He said as he passed the mule. Once in the pickup Jesse grabbed the CB as he pulled out of the yard, "This is Shepherd. Come in Lost Sheep One." Nothing. "Lost Sheep Two, this is Shepherd." Nothing. Jesse mumbled to himself as he made one more call, "Shepherd to Bo Peep." Nothing, that told Jesse a lot. He was behind. If they were heading to Chickamahoney he wouldn't be able to reach any of them until he got to the county line past Iron Mountain. —------------------------ Clyde Davenport had no idea what was going on, all he knew was BL hadn’t been home since friday and had called saturday night to say she was staying the night at the Duke farm with Daisy. Pulling upto the post office in his pickup, he read the sign in the window, saying there was a family emergency but he hadn’t been notified. Going over to the garage, seeing Luther at the pumps baffled him even more, parking he got out of the truck “What’s going on Luther?”Clyde asked. “Nothing,why” Luther asked, he sensed Clyde hadn’t asked, by way of greeting. “BL has a sign in the post office window says closed due to a family emergency,” Clyde said. “Well, what in Sam Hill is Cooter doing, he went to get the mail” Luther grumbled, now that he thought about it Cooter had been gone a while. Pete Sims was bringing his wife’s car in for a tuneup, getting out of the car greeting the Davenport brothers “howdy fellas, Lydia told me you are getting yourself a son-in-law. Luther.” Pete said. “Said, your girl eloped with Luke Duke”, Pete kept talking, not paying attention that Luther practically had steam coming out his ears.” Said she saw Daisy and Bo Duke and Cooter getting in General Lee.” “Said your BL was with them.” Pete said to Clyde. “Lydia needs some things from Ruehbottom’s, I’ll be back in a little while” Pete wandered off to do his shopping. “Looks like I might not be the only one getting myself a Duke son-in-law,” Luther said, opening the hood of Pete’s car, while Clyde was processing it all and that his little girl was with Bo Duke in or near Chickamahoney right this very minute. —--------------------- Charlie had just unlocked the front door of the Boar’s Nest to get set up and open. They were never busy this time of day but if someone happened in Charlie would wait on them while he got ready for the evening crowd. He was surprised to hear the door open when Lulu Hogg came in. Lulu’s arms were full of streamers, balloons, paper decorations of all sorts. She came in and set the stuff down on one of the tables. "There is a box in my car Charlie. Will you get it please." Charlie looked in the box and saw it had Christmas lights and such in it, "What's all this stuff for Ms. Lulu? It's too early for Christmas." "I just think this place needs a bit of cheer and decorations." Lulu said. Charlie wasn't at all sure how Boss Hogg was gonna like this remodel but she was his boss's wife so he'd do as he was asked. —----------------------------- At base camp, Luke and the rest of the crew gave Dixie the grand tour and explained some of the equipment to her. Luke's team members had his pictures printed out and in a folder for him when they came back in, "Duke why are you taking pictures of dollhouses?" Lisa ribbed. He gave her a look and corrected her, "Those are luxury vacation homes." "For Ken and Barbie maybe." Lisa joked. "Speaking of pictures. We should likely get these back." Luke said as he picked up a copy of the new schedule. They said their goodbyes and Dixie was invited back to watch some jumps. —---------------------- In Chickamahoney, Bo parked the General Lee in the center of town, "Anyone know where to start?" Daisy, Cooter and BL looked at each other, then at Bo three sets of shoulders shrugging. “The hotel, if it was somebody other than Dixie and Luke, Dixie ain’t gonna want to stay someplace Luther can find them easy” BL said. Cooter knew his sister and was nodding ‘yes’. Cooter said, "You are ahead of yourself cousin, before a hotel they would need a license." Daisy added, "Then a preacher." Bo looked the town up and down seeing the various signs and such for different types of wedding packages. "They could be or have been to any these places." Bo said. Cooter added, "Wait. No, let's circle town and look for Luke's truck." —---------------------- Back in Hazzard Luther filled Clyde in on the early morning visit from BL and where their wayward daughters had been all night. The search party drove around town at a snail pace, eyes peeled looking for Luke’s pickup but were coming up empty, “no sign of them nowhere” Cooter stated what the others were thinking too. Daisy and BL went to the Courthouse to see if there had been a marriage license issued. “Well that didn’t help much”, BL said once she and Daisy exited the courthouse. Three marriage licenses had been issued that morning but the filing deadline was 24 hours. ”Now what?” Cooter said. Just as they were heading out of town they saw Uncle Jesse coming toward them into town. Bo stopped in the middle of the road as Jesse also stopped alongside him. "What in tarnation is going on? Where is Luke?" “I don’t know where Luke is, Uncle Jesse. We can’t find him or Dixie either” Bo said. "Did Luke or Dixie say anything to any of yall?" Uncle Jesse asked. He was met with four young people looking at each other, then shaking their heads ‘no’. "Then, why are we all out here?" Jesse asked. The others looked to Cooter and said together. "Cooter said..." Cooter cut them off, "We'll Dad told me after he stormed into the garage." “Told you what?” Jesse asked. “They eloped, Uncle Jesse” Cooter answered. “I ain’t your Uncle Jesse” Jesse fussed. —----------------------------- Back at the Boar's Nest the place was decorated to the hilt. It looked like a cross between a high school prom and a bridal shower. At the garage Luther had hurt himself while trying to get work done for the last time, "Clyde I'm calling it a day. Let's go get a beer." Clyde responded, "As long as it is not a repeat of the other night."Luther gave his brother a look. "You got it." —---------------------------- In Chickamahoney, Jesse asked, "But You can't find them or any record they got hitched?" "No." Replied Daisy, just a bit disappointed. "We'll there ain't no sense hanging out here. Let's get back to the Boar's Nest and see if anyone has seen them two." Jesse wisely said. Everyone got turned around and headed for Hazzard. Balladeer: "Now look here. There is Luke and Dixie. Theys a few miles back behind the search party. —---------------------------- Luther and Clyde got out of Clyde’s pickup,heading inside the Boar’s Nest. Luther nearly swallowed his tongue when they walked in and saw a big banner CONGRATULATION’S LUKE AND DIXIE stretched across the room. “Bo will you drop me off at the post office please? I want to get my car, so I can deliver the mail. I’ll follow ya’ll to the Boar’s Nest and then leave there to get the mail and deliver it in a bit,”BL said “Sure darlin” Bo said, pulling around back, sliding out the driver’s window. Then he lifted Sadie, settling her “stay” Bo helped BL out, giving her a peck on the lips. “Load up”, BL told Sadie, opening the car door. Within minutes the General Lee and GTO were pulling into the Boar’s Nest lot. Luke and Dixie were having a very pleasant ride back to Hazzard talking about everything and nothing at all. When Luke turned the curve and the Boar’s Nest came into view they couldn't help but notice the crowd for so early in the afternoon. Luke said, "Something must be up for everyone to be here this early. Even Uncle Jesse's here. We better stop." "Right. I hope everything's alright with BL." Dixie said. "Grab that folder with the pictures in case we need them." Luke said as he was parking the truck. Inside, everyone was taking in all the decorations. “Here they come”, Thelma Claire hollered above the noise. Luke and Dixie walked in, seeing the congratulations sign hanging across the room “Congratulations, for what?”Luke asked. “On your nuptials, of course,” Lulu explained. —------------------------- “Nuptials, Miss Lulu, where did you hear that?” Dixie asked. “That’s what Lydia Sims said when she came in the beauty parlor this morning. Said she met Bo, Daisy, and Cooter and they were talking about you and Luke eloping” Lulu explained. “We got some pictures printed at base camp, I wanted Dixie to meet my crew. Show them, Dix”Luke said. Dixie lay the folder on the front table. Bo and BL had moved closer to the door before hearing themselves named as part of the reason for all the decorations and fan fair. Daisy and Cooter weren't far behind them. Jesse, as well as Luther and Clyde had also moved a bit closer to hear the missing couple's explanation. Jesse spoke up, "So ya'll didn't run off and get hitched?" Dixie had the good graces to blush crimson which she had not done in years Luke was still a bit shocked as well as a lot confused at how they all had come up with this conclusion. Luke replied, "No. How? No, why? Did ya’ll think that." BL looked at Bo, who looked at Daisy, then they all looked at Cooter who turned to Luther and said,"Dad?" Luther heard the question but for now he wanted to make sure he heard Luke, "Ya'll didn't go to Chickamahoney and get married?" Now things were becoming a bit clearer to Luke as he smiled just a bit, "We went TOWARD Chickamahoney, took the bypass around town and went south to our base camp." Luke thought he was seeing the fire in Luther's eyes lowering a bit but figured for good measure he had better add, "No, we didn't get married." “Beers for everybody, their on Boss” Bo announced to the bar of people, everyone chuckled. Bo, BL, Cooter and Daisy were all glad that Dixie and Luke hadn’t left them out of wedding plans afterall. When everyone was served and occupied with their drinks Luke leaned closer to the group, voice low ”these pictures are what Boss Hogg is upto. I’ll show you when there ain’t so many people around.” —----------------------------- Daisy set Luke and Dixie another beer down beaming, "I just KNEW y'all wouldn’t run off and get married without at least telling some of us." BL added, "Yeah. I thought we were closer than that." Dixie replied, "We are, but I can keep a secret pretty well." Bo and Cooter were having much the same conversation with Luke who replied, "Look, when we do y'all will be the second (after himself) to know, alright." “I hate to run out ya’ll but I was ‘busy’ this morning and didn’t deliver the mail, BL gave Dixie and Luke a look, so I have to now, then still have outgoing mail to Central city by 3” BL said. Dixie asked, "What were you busy doing that was more important than the mail getting out?” “Playing hide and seek”, BL said sarcastically but grinned, so Dixie would know she wasn’t really mad. Bo added, "Do ya’ll have any idea how many places there are to get married in Chickamahoney?" Dixie asked with a slight grin, "Y'all really went over there looking for us?" Cooter answered Bo then Dixie, "A lot and yes!" Daisy added, "Even Uncle Jesse came behind us." Luke looked up at the senior Duke who gave him an assured look that had a 'we will talk about this at home's meaning. “How about we meet at still sight #4, at 4 o’clock after you get back from Central City, BL? Ya’ll can take a look see at these here pictures,” Luke said. “Sounds good, see you then” BL said. “You are coming home” Clyde said, his tone was a question but his look said it was a command, “Be home by 6 o’clock” BL said, then dashed out the door to deliver mail. —----------------------- At 10 minutes after 4 o'clock, BL pulled up behind General Lee, “Sorry I’m a little late, they were doing road construction on county 103” BL said. Bo said, "They are always working on 103." Luke layed out the pictures. "Here's these luxury homes. Look at this one. It's in the ad and compares the size to that truck pictured with it." Dixie said, "They would make really cute playhouses for kids.” “Who'd want to live in a crackerjack box? Be about the same as a car with the doors welded shut, to me” Jesse said. BL looked at the pictures, Dixie was right they would make cute playhouses. Expensive too she bet. Luke said, "So I've been thinking. Maybe we should contact those folks who got Bo's pictures and have them come to court and tell that this isn't what they thought they were paying for. I think some may be happier with Bo’s pictures. “How, there ain’t enough time to write them all and wait for replies back or just hope they show for court. We can’t call them, we ain’t got phone numbers” BL said dejectedly. “We call information with the names and addresses, get the phone numbers from there” Dixie said. “After hearing how these people were scammed, the Judge will drop the charges, I just know he will” Daisy said with all the confidence she could muster into her voice. —----------------------------- After everyone figured what to do with the pictures they took, everyone decided to go back to the Boar’s Nest for a while. Dixie leaned over for only Luke to hear, "Can you believe they done all this for us just because they thought we went to Chickamahoney." Luke smiled and said as a slow dance came on, "Seems ashamed to not enjoy it. Come on." They danced to the song then Dixie headed back to the table as Luke went to the bar to get them a beer. The place was unusually busy for a Monday night. While Luke waited for Charlie or Daisy to get to him he felt a tap on his shoulder. Luther was standing behind him. "Can we walk outside for a minute?" Luke replied, "Sure." Bo looked up in time to see Luther and Luke heading outside, but he wasn't the only one who saw it. Jesse Duke was already heading out behind them. —-------------------------- Luther went around the side of the Boar’s Nest that the kitchen was on, so noone could see or interrupt. Luke followed his guard up but he’d still be respectful as long as Luther stayed civil. “There’s something I been meaning to talk to you about,”Luther said, pausing this wasn’t easy. Luke waited while the senior Davenport figured out what he wanted to say. Clearing his throat, Luther continued “I need you to help out driving the wrecker, at least part time.” Luther held out his hand for a handshake. Luke wasn’t sure he was hearing right. After all the trouble between them, Luther was asking him to drive the wrecker for him again. Giving Luther’s hand a firm shake Luke said “I’d be glad to Luther. One more thing, I had one too many drinks the other night,“ Luther said. Luke nodded, accepting the unspoken apology. Seeing the handshake between the two made Jesse feel better. Luke said, "Luther, I ain't never set out to make trouble for any of our families. I have always liked driving for you and only stopped because you fired me." Luke saw the man start to object and held up his hand in hopes of finishing his thoughts, "As for today, we went to my base camp and spent most of the day. Yes, it was in the general direction of Chickamahoney, but we was nowhere near there." “I’ve watched how you’ve been with other girls, so I hope you don’t take offense but what are your intentions with my daughter?”,Luther asked. Luke did his best not to take offense, Luther was perfectly justified in asking, Luke’s track record wasn’t the best “I am not going to drop Dixie, like a sack of potatoes, I swear. If we do decide to get married at some point, I promise we ain’t going to elope” Luke said. Even though Luther had been thinking long and hard since spending the night in jail, he wasn't really ready to let everything just go and give his blessings for the Duke to date his daughter. "So why was BL sneaking into my house in the wee hours and telling me that Dixie was at the lake?" Luke was caught slightly off guard, Luther hadn’t let on that he knew anything. Luke thought about the best way to answer the question at hand without incriminating anyone. "I can't answer for BL, but Dixie and I were out by the lake yesterday evening. We were talking, it got late. I broke out my gear and we stayed by the lake until we went to base camp this morning." Luther wasn’t sure he completely bought Luke’s story but it was a reasonable enough reason, he guessed. Jesse was still listening and although Luther was accepting Luke’s story, Jesse was still going to have a talk with Luke at home. Bo was itching to know what was going on with Luke and Luther but he was staying inside, Uncle Jesse could handle any problems he needed to. "So are you intent on marrying my girl?" Luther asked. There it was. On the table for all to see. Well at least for all they knew, Luther and Luke. —----------------------------- Luke rubbed the back of his neck, thinking hard before he answered, "Dixie deserves far better than me. I'm sure we can both agree on that." Luke stood up just a might taller before continuing, "But I have loved her enough since she was 15 to ask for your permission. Now I just need to know her heart and mind." Luther nodded, “that’s all I wanted to know, I just needed to know you weren’t yanking her chain. How about we go back inside, before they all think we’re out here killing each other?” Luther said. Jesse was quick getting out of sight, heading back inside before Luke or Luther saw him,shooing Bo, Dixie, as well as Cooter as he moved. —---------------------- Luke couldn't help still being a bit puzzled at Luther's line of questioning. Inside, Luther went to the bar to get a coffee,Luke went back to the table with the others, “Where’d you get to?” Dixie asked before Luke got set down good. “Luther had some things he wanted to discuss, so we went outside where it was quieter,” Luke said. "Oh, Good. That bad?" Dixie asked. Luke gave her his award winning smile, "It could have been worse." He took a drink of beer and said, "Are you ready to get married any time soon?" Dixie looked at Luke like he had three heads, "What? No! Are you?" Luke took a drink of beer and replied, "Not really." Luke had gotten everybody at the table’s full attention with his question. Bo choked on the drink of beer he just took. BL patted Bo’s back while looking at Luke, Dixie voicing her thoughts, “HAVE you lost your mind?” Cooter looked as stunned as the rest. —------------------- Luke continued to smile, largely at Bo's reaction as he talked to Dixie, "I think our little trip to base camp rattled him. I can't believe that just because we left town in the general direction of Chickamahoney that everyone thought we had eloped. I did sort of have to promise IF we ever decide to get married, that we would not elope." Dixie played along with Luke and said, "Now, there went all my plans." Daisy had been close enough to hear the exchange, "Ya'll better not. I've been planning these guys' weddings almost as long as I have mine!" —---------------------- Around the small bar, there were several girls who really didn't like all that marriage talk around the Duke table since they weren't on the arm of either Duke. Some vowed to double their efforts of getting those Duke boys' attention. Luke pretty much figured Hazzard just needed something to talk about. Dixie too knew how Hazzard was, but by her assessment, Luke and her weren't even seeing each other exclusively. At least wise, they hadn't talked about it, but even way back when neither could tell anyone when they went from friends to dating. Their relationship seemed to have always been complicated. One thing she was sure of, there were several girls in this room who were not at all happy about her current location at Luke's table, by his side with his arm around her. BL could see some of the green eyes of jealousy around the room, they were shooting daggers at her and Dixie, mostly Dixie as she sat there, Luke’s arm around her shoulders. All the ‘kids’ were having a good time and after hearing Luther and Luke’s talk, Jesse was satisfied there would be no trouble so he said his goodbyes to some old buddies then went over to the ‘kids’ table. “I’m going to head home,got chores to do,” Jesse said. Much to Bo’s displeasure, Luke motioned to his half full mug of beer, "We'll finish up here and be behind you." Dixie added, "Yeah, I have uniforms to wash for tomorrow." Luke gave her a look. "We'll, I do." Dixie said and then asked, "Are you ever going to get used to me wearing a uniform?" Luke said as he finished his beer and stood up, "Band uniform, softball uniform, ..." Dixie also stood up and playfully gave him the slightest knee strike to his thigh. "Keep it up. You know those tactics are based on Marine Corp. training, meaning ya'll got a taste of what we were trained in." When he put his arm around Dixie's waist his hand went a bit below her belt. BL grinned watching Dixie's and Luke's antics while she finished her beer, “I ain’t got uniforms to wash but I’m going to cook Daddy his favorite for supper, soften him up so he won’t give me so much grief about being gone all weekend,” BL said, standing up. “Whatcha cookin’ good lookin?.” Bo asked, flashing his lady killer grin. “Chicken ‘n’ dumplings with biscuits and peach cobbler for dessert,” BL said. —-------------------------- As Luke approached his pickup he was reminded that along with the farm's evening chores that he had another task of repacking all his gear before work tomorrow. Dixie climbed in the passenger seat then promptly slid over to the middle of the truck's seat. Luke wasn't planning to eat Bo's dust all the way to the Davenport farm so he pulled out while Bo and BL were saying their goodbyes. "What would you think of me driving for your Dad some when I'm off work?" Luke asked. "Wait a minute. I thought he swore you'd never drive for him again, years ago." Dixie stated. Bo brushed BL’s hair back from her face, leaning close to give her a long kiss, “See you tomorrow darlin”,Bo said. “See you tomorrow” BL got in her car, Bo shut the door giving Sadie a little scratch behind the ears, watching BL go out of sight. Bo got in the General and caught up to Luke as he was pulling in to let Dixie out. So Luke should pretty much be right behind him. Luke had noted that both Davenport men were still at the Boars Nest when they left. "Well, here you are." Luke said. Dixie nodded as she sat up, kicked her shoes off and turned around sideways in Luke's seat to face him. "Do you have any idea how much I don't want to go do laundry?" Luke nodded, "Probably as much as I want to go clean the barn." They weren't sure who moved closer first but several minutes later the windows of Luke's truck were steamed up even with the air conditioner running. Luke's hands were wandering. Dixie was gently rubbing Luke's neck, shoulders and chest. Luke knew he needed to get to the farm but moved his kisses to Dixie’s. She responded by doing the same then moved to blow in his ear. Since she was now on Luke's lap she suddenly felt Luke's jeans become much tighter. Luke let out a sound between growl and whimper as he was very torn between what he should do and what he wanted to do, "Dix, go get your laundry done, I'll come back or you come over." Bo got home, going straight for the barn. “Where’s Luke?”Jesse asked. “He was dropping Dixie off, should be right behind me,” Bo replied. —------------------------ Clyde Davenport thought he’d died and gone to heaven, when he opened the back door and was met by the aroma of chicken n dumplings, ”that smells great sweetheart”. BL straightened from checking the biscuits, “supper’ll be ready in about 15 minutes” BL said. Clyde asked casually “how was work today”? “Could have been better”, BL said. “Why’s that?” Clyde fished. “Because Cooter, me,Bo and Daisy spent half a day in Chickamahoney checking at every wedding venue there was, trying to find out if Dixie and Luke Duke had gotten married,” BL said. Clyde had opened the pot of chicken and dumplings, got a spoon and was ready for a taste as his daughter spoke. After nearly choking on the sip of broth he had taken in, he caught his breath, then squeaked out, "Why would any of you think THAT?" BL thought hard to come up with a truthful answer, without telling on herself, that she had stayed the night at hounddog lake with Bo and Dixie had been there with Luke still this morning when Bo took her to the Davenport farm but they were gone when Luther got there. Tire tracks headed toward Chicamahoney. No telling all that now would ruin a peaceful meal. “Cooter said he heard it, couldn’t get them on the CB so we did some tracking”, BL said. “Why didn’t you just call to see if Dixie was at work?” Clyde asked, it sounded like an easy solution to him. “They both had the day off,” BL said. —---------------------- Luke pulled into his usual spot and instead of heading to the barn and chores he headed to the bathroom and the shower, .... a cold one! Jesse saw Luke head to the house and found the shower on when he entered the farmhouse. He poured a cup of coffee and waited.... Almost an hour later Luke came down the hall socks in one hand, boots in the other. Sitting down putting his boots beside the chair, Luke waited for Uncle Jesse to say something, finally Jesse spoke, “When you get done, get yourself a cup of coffee and join me on the porch.” Getting up for more coffee, Jesse then headed out to the porch, —---------------------- Luke knew Jesse wasn't asking him to the porch for a social call. Socks on, boots on, shirt tucked in, cup of coffee in hand, Luke checked his tongue at the door. Luke hopped up on the banister in front of his uncle, "Yes, Sir?” Jesse Duke took a long drink of coffee, took in a deep breath and began, "Luke." He paused. "Now I know you are all grown. I know you, Bo and the Davenport girls were NOT home last night. Times might have changed, but I ain't. Now I know ya'll have run around with a number of girls since you've been 12, but you are living here. I won't have either of you putting those girls reputation into question." Luke tried to speak. Jesse held his hand up, "You'll have your turn. I'm not done. I can't believein’ the whole town thinking ya'll ran off to get married, but no, ya'll just spent the whole night out, then disappeared all day. And let me tell you, IF you two boys ever do decide to get hitched, which those chances rank right up there with hogs producing beef, but as long as I'm on this here Earth, I'd better be there to see it with my own eyes. All this here grey hair I got earned me that right to watch some poor unsuspecting girl take you to be hers and let me tell you, once she does, there ain't no returning you." Luke remained quiet,to make sure that Jesse had finished. Took a long drink of coffee and began, "I'm sorry Uncle Jesse." Luke rubbed the back of his neck and felt about twelve, "You know first and foremost, that you taught us right." He stopped the next thought that he was about to say about being careful. There was that ice water effect going down his back again. He did add, "Uncle Jesse, how are we supposed to find out if what was there before is still here today if everytime we are out together it leads to all sorts of chaos?" “I don’t rightly know, you’ll just know if ya’ll are meant to be together, even in all sorts of chaos those feelings will still be there” Jesse said. "All I know is if we are out of peoples sight someone comes looking for us. We were out by hounddog lake, went for a swim. No one was around so I built a fire. Got out some of my camping stuff to stay awhile, ..... and in pulled Bo and BL. At that point it was pretty late so we stayed." Jesse frowned, "I'll take that as the short version. Now, are ya'll talking about anything serious?" "Jesse, I've been around a lot of women but, .... there's something different about Dixie. I knew that years ago." Luke admitted. —------------------------------------ "Speaking of that, it's not gonna do either one of ya'll, both your jobs, or either of our families any good if ya'll get caught buck naked in the back of the General Lee by the State Police again. Those records are sealed, but there are still a few people around who remember ya'lls past." Jesse said calmly. Luke knew his Uncle was right. "I hear you loud and clear. I know you are right." Jesse asked, "Do I hear a 'but'?" It was times like these that part of Luke wished Jesse didn’t know him so well. "Yeah." Jesse waited. "She's not 15 anymore. She knows what she's doing and it's driving me nuts." Jesse chuckled a little “sounds like a woman. —--------------------- They looked up to see Bo coming out of the barn, meaning the evening chores were done. Luke shook his head and said to Bo, "I was coming out to help." Bo found that hard to believe, "Just get up extra early in the morning so you can do mine in the morning and we'll call it even." "Deal." Luke said remembering his earlier remark to Dixie about coming over and his exact reason he planned to see her again tonight. Then turned to Jesse, "I'm gonna run out for a bit then." Jesse held up his finger as a reminder of their conversation. Luke replied, already giving Bo his coffee cup and heading off the porch, "I know." Jesse shook his head at his oldest, "I think I'll try my good suit on later." Luke stopped dead and looked at Jesse, who was smiling with a bit of an evil twinkle in his eye, before getting in his pickup. Bo gave Jesse a questioning look,knowing that he had missed something between Luke and Jesse. —------------------------ Clyde decided he was going to have to confront BL about all that Luther had told him that morning, it was obvious she wasn’t going to confess. “Luther told me something interesting this morning”, Clyde said. “Oh?” BL said not paying real close attention. “He told me you came by early this morning” BL looked at Clyde, he had her undivided attention. Clyde continued, “Said you and Dixie had been at hounddog lake all night with Luke and Bo Duke.” “Yeah, we used to all camp out there alot,” BL didn’t like where this talk seemed to be headed. “Me, Luther and Jesse knew where ya’ll were then,” Clyde was making a real effort to stay calm and reasonable. “Care to tell me what ya’ll were doing?” Clyde asked. “Just camping out” BL did not want to get into a discussion of being accused and arrested for mail fraud, nor did she want Clyde to know about her court day, later in the week. “Just camping out, well just camping out with a guy, especially when that guy is a Duke boy could make you talk of the town.” Clyde said. With Clyde’s last statement, BL heard Dixie coming out of her mouth,“talk of the town…why should I care? Might leave others alone. I’m not a kid anymore, you can’t tell me what to do.” “Young lady as long as you live under my roof…” Clyde bellowed but anything else he was going to say was cut off as BL stormed to her room “maybe it’s time I moved, I been trying to decide what to do with Miz Tisdale’s house.” —-------------------- Within 15 minutes BL had packed her bags and Sadie’s food and water dish as well as the large plastic tote,where the dog food was kept, “I’ll come tomorrow for the rest of my clothes. Sadie come” BL said. GTO loaded, BL spun out of the driveway, turning toward town off calico road. Not wanting to broadcast her trouble over the CB, BL picked up the phone at Miz Tisdale’s house…her house, calling Dixie Dixie stopped folding the last of her clothes and answered the phone, "Davenport residence. This is Dixie." She answered, never knowing if the call was business for a wrecker call. “Dix its BL, we need to talk, I’m at Miz Tisdale’s, I mean my new house.” BL didn’t want business overheard by Maybelle Tillingham who was known to eavesdrop on private calls and spread gossip then, Dixie sighed as she saw her plans for the evening going South, "Do you want me to come over? I'm almost done with my laundry." “Yeah, this just hasn’t been my day,” BL said. Dixie replied, "Yeah, it's been like that everywhere today. Should I bring clothes for tomorrow?" She felt like it was going to be a long night and nowhere like the long night she had had the night before. “Sure, there’s plenty of room. Bring snacks too please, icecream if ya’ll got any, ain’t nothing to eat here except Sadie’s food that I brought. We need bowls and spoons if ya’ll got disposable.” BL said, she’d have to go grocery shopping tomorrow. —------------------------- Dixie envisioned instead of her taking a small bag and a hanger that this was going to turn into an epic adventure, "Yeah, ok. It's gonna take a minute." She said as she took her laundry to her room. A uniform on a hanger she left on her door. Set the rest on her bed. Reached in the closet and grabbed a duffle bag. She grabbed her badge and brass for her uniform and put in a change purse into the duffle. Grabbed 2 sets of socks and underwear from her folder basket. A night shirt, her house shoes. Tooth brush, paste, deodorant, body spray, to the bathroom for her shampoo and conditioner. Set her work shoes by the bag, then mentally checked again everything she had and put a couple more things in the bag. Grabbing the bag, hanger, shoes, wallet and keys she headed down stairs and left everything in the living room as she went to the kitchen and got a box from the panty as she thought, 'She said snacks but we haven’t eaten yet.' She found a frozen pizza, foil to heat it on, a 2 liter of soda. She was glad her Dad and Cooter hated washing dishes before she came home. She found paper plates, cups, a roll of paper towels, toilet paper for good measure. Then remembered she also had to take bath towels and washcloths. Coffee, she would need coffee. Back in the pantry she found an old coffee pot for the stove top. Chips and dip. In the back of the fridge was beer that either Cooter or Luther had put in there. Figuring on replacing it, Dixie left them two a piece and promptly put the rest in her box. Another look around the kitchen and she decided after last night she had better leave a note. Gone to BL's I owe ya a beer. Love Dix. —------------------------ With that she was out of the kitchen, opened the front door and set the awkward heavy box on the porch just as she heard Luke's pickup cut up the driveway. She waited until he parked beside her car. Luke saw Dixie standing in the doorway with a large box on the porch. Luke got out of the truck and gave her a questioning look. Dixie flashed an award winning smile, "So you came to rescue me?" Luke was puzzled, but replied, "Always. It's my job." He looked in the box and had to ask, "Dixie, are you running away from or to somewhere or are you moving or what?" "Luke, you can't get rid of me that easy. Something is up with BL. She's at Miz Tisdale’s place which has nothing. I'm gonna go spend the night and leave from there. Here,take this box ..." She put it in his arms, "Hold on." She set her bag and shoes on the box. "I'll just grab my uniform, wallet and keys. As Luke managed barely to get to Dixie’s car, he said, "I've seen platoons of Marines go out for a week with less." Dixie was packing the items in the car, "Sorry." Dixie was almost done, when she remembered the ice cream “shoot, be back in a sec” Dixie told Luke, going back inside she decided to get a few more things. Heading to the bathroom for towels and washcloths, she snagged the blanket off the couch. Luke asked, "Ice cream?" Dixie shrugged, "It makes everything better, besides BL asked for it." Luke put up his hand to stop further explanation of something apparently only a woman would understand. —--------------------- Waiting for Dixie, BL unloaded her car. “Well Sadie looks like it’s just us BL said to the dog at her heels. ”Think BL will mind if I show up too? I’d kind of like to know what’s up, her not coming here or the farm ain’t right” Luke said, this just wasn’t like BL if she needed space from Clyde. “No I don’t think she’ll mind, we better get going though or the icecream will melt,” Dixie said. Dixie got in her car backing out before the ice cream started to melt, Luke got in his pickup, not exactly how he had planned his time with Dixie but at least there was no danger in Luther seeing something to get him riled. Luke followed Dixie around Town Square and to BL's. Once there, he said, "Get your uniform and ice cream and warn BL I'm here. I'll get the rest." Dixie gave him a smile with puppy dog eyes, sort of like she had at the age of five, "Thanks Luke." Dixie opened the door and called, "OK, BL. We and half the house are here." “Who’s we?” BL asked coming down the stairs from putting the few things she’d brought in a bedroom upstairs. —---------------------------- "Luke came with me to carry in everything you asked for or I needed." Dixie replied as Luke stepped onto the front porch with his arms full. “He just happened to come to see you and got drafted?” BL asked, continuing. “More like ya’ll had plans and I threw a wrench in them,” BL grinned. Luke came in with the box and asked “where should I put this? Hey BL”. “Hey Luke, just sit it on the table’s fine. You can put your bag in one of the bedrooms Dixie, except the first door on the left. Nothing in that one, it was Miz Tisdale’s and she took the furniture because it was a wedding present from her mama,”BL said. Dixie took her bag from Luke before he took the box to the kitchen. She sat the bag on the stairs with her purse and keys. Then seeing an empty nail where a picture had hung she hung her uniform there to go help Luke unpack the box of food and such. In the kitchen she put the ice cream in the freezer and saw Luke had started setting stuff out of the box. BL if you want to call Bo, I'll put the pizza in the oven. It should be done by the time he gets here.”Dixie said. —-------------------------------- Across the small yard, Miss Tiztale's former neighbor Mrs. Cravitz had gone from the front door then from window to window since BL had pulled in, then when Dixie and Luke pulled in, she had nearly broken her neck trying to see who all had entered her elderly neighbors home. Mrs. Cravitz had gotten used to Ms. Tizdale's motorbike leaving early and coming in after the Post Office closed, she fed her cat and nothing else hardly happened over there unless there caelld to her husband, "I'm telling you, there is something going on over there that shouldn't be." He kept reading the paper. Soon the loud power engine of General Lee, easily pulling up in front of the little house had again gotten Mrs. Cravitz undivided attention. Seeing Bo Duke's car and the young blonde Duke taking the porch steps two by two, she decided it was her civic duty to call the Sheriff. He was always going on about those no account Duke boys and all. —------------------------------ For all she knew they may be stealing her neighbor blind. She put the call through to the Sheriff's department. Rosco answered on the second ring “Sheriff’s office, Sheriff Rosco P. Coltrane speaking”. “Sheriff this is Gloria Cravitz, I just saw those Duke boys go into Miz Tisdale’s house, those Davenport girls is there too. I think they’re going to steal that poor old lady blind.” “Thank you for the information Mrs. Cravitz, I’ll check it out.” Rosco hung up the phone and went out to his patrol car, within a few minutes he pulled up at the little house,siren wailing, “wonder what Rosco wants now” BL said,peeking out the glass in the front door. “Alright you Duke boys and Davenport girls come out ith your hands up” Rosco shouted into his megaphone. —----------------------------i Luke set his beer down. Turned the oven off and said, "Go on out and stall him." Luke picked up the receiver, "Get me the Duke Farm." "Sure thang, Luke." the Hazzard operator Maybelle Tillingham said. "Duke Farm, this is Jesse." Luke heard his Uncle say. "Uncle Jesse, call Miz Tisdale and have her call the Sheriff's department in about ten minutes. We're all at her house Rosco is out front summoning us out front with hands up. Dixie and I both work in the morning. We'd prefer not to be late. I got to go before he gets excited." Luke hung the phone up. Rosco was already yelling, "Luke Duke come on out here! Don't make me come up and get you." Across the yard Mrs. Cravitz was glued to the window watching the blue lights flashing. BL was losing her patience, it had been one of those days if one more thing went wrong she was going to scream, “Rosco! What in the world is wrong with you?” BL said. “Mrs Cravitz called and said you all were here and she thought ya’ll was going to rob the place,” Rosco said. “That’s ridiculous, we’re giving BL a house warming party, she said Miz Tisdale signed some papers giving her rights to be here” Dixie said. “I wanna see proof,”Rosco said. Everyone looked at BL, she thought about the signed agreement with Miss Tizdale, "It's at Daddy's." Rosco said, "Well all of you just git in my car, where is that Luke Duke?" Luke picked that exact time to step out of the house onto the porch and said,"Rosco, you are making a big mistake here. BL has the house, we are her guests." "Guests? Tiddly tuddly! Guests, my Aunt Fannie!" Roscoe stated, just come on down and get in this here patrol car. Feeling secure in the fact that he had already talked to Jesse and knowing BL had the right to be there, Luke did as he was told. The girls and Bo looked at each other, after Luke got into the patrol car, “What just happened?” Bo asked. Both girls shrugged their shoulders “c’mon Dix let’s go get that agreement”, BL got in her car. Rosco almost went into a fit and started waving his pearl handled pistol around, "OH NO you two don't. Ya’ll ain't going nowhere. I'm taking ya'll all four of you in. Shame shame shame trying to loot poor Ole Miz Tisdale." —----------------------------- Luke had just reached the patrol car, Bo had been about half way there when they turned to see why Rosco was pitching a fit. Luke motioned for them all to just get in the car. "Dixie, if ya'll want to be on time for work tomorrow, let's just get this over with." All four knew getting away from Rosco could have easily been done, but Luke knew as soon Miz Tisdale called they would be let go. Trusting that Luke knew what he was doing, the others followed him to the patrol car. Bo being, Bo asked, "Care to tell us how this is supposed to work?” Rosco replied, simple. He pointed to Dixie, you up front, you three in the back. The foursome got in their assigned spots, Rosco getting behind the steering wheel. Mrs. Cravitz had stayed glued to the window watching it all, “Abner he’s taking them to jail, I knew they were upto something.” Just as Rosco was moving his four prisoners into the downstairs part of the jail, the phone started to ring. "Ya’ll just freeze, freeze it right there." He turned to answer the phone. Luke couldn’t hide the slightest grin on his face as Rosco answered the phone. “Sheriff’s office…”Rosco said but he didn’t get a chance to say more. —----------------------- “Sheriff, I signed an agreement with BL stating that my house was hers, now that she runs the post office. Puts her closer to town, so she can meet the mail truck at 8 every morning. So what’s this I hear, about you harassing her, Luther Davenport’s girl and them nice Duke boys?” Miz Tisdale fussed. “Mrs Cravitz said they was upto no good” Rosco said. “Well they ain’t, so leave‘em be,you here?” Miz Tisdale scolded. “Yes ma'am,” Rosco said, hanging up, then to the group he said “that was Miz Tisdale, she said the house is yours BL. Ya’ll are free to go.” "Come on ya'll." Luke said. Everyone started up the stairs as Bo said, "Bet that just ruined your night didn't it Rosco?" Luke swore, "For THE love of God Bo!" "What?" Bo replied as Rosco said, "Ruin my night, huh? We'll just see whose night gets ruined!" He took that as a personal challenge. Outside, Luke said as they crossed the square, "You just had to run your mouth didn't you?" Bo said again, "What? What did I do?" Luke shot him a look as he put his arm around Dixie, "Sorry, none of this is what I had planned." "Just exactly what did you have planned?" Dixie stepped in front of Luke and looked up at him with a wicked grin. Luke didn’t say anything, he just returned Dixie’s wicked grin. The foursome walked back to the little house, where they heard Sadie whining inside, she wasn’t used to BL just disappearing, leaving her behind. “Poor thing, probably wondered where I went”, BL said. —---------------------------- “Why don’t we take her for a stroll? It's a nice evening for one,” Bo said. “How about it Sadie, want to go for a walk?” Bo said, patting Sadie’s head, his answer was Sadie bringing him her leash. “I think that’s a yes,”BL said. Bo clipped the leash to Sadie’s collar, taking BL’s hand, heading out. “Pizza should be cooked,by the time ya’ll get back” Dixie said, giving Luke a slight grin, they were getting some alone time after all. Bo and BL set off down the sidewalk with Sadie. "How about grabbing us a beer while I do a little remodeling for BL?" Luke asked. Dixie had no idea what sort of remodeling Luke had in mind, but went to get them both a beer. The evening hadn't gone as planned but had some potential. When she returned she found Luke with a blanket at the double window in the living room that had far too sheer of a curtain on it for his taste since the neighbor on that side had just gotten them arrested. "Good idea." Dixie said as the phone rang. She simply answered, "Hello?" Followed by. "Yes Sir, he's here just let him get off the chair. Luke,it's Uncle Jesse for you." "It's Luke, .... I was hanging something up for BL, .... Yes, thanks, I'm not sure what Miz Tisdale said but Rosco let us go before he even got to lock the cell door..... Yes Sir, we will." Dixie asked, "Hanging something for BL hmmm?" "I was." Luke confirmed as he pulled Dixie to him on the couch." —------------------ Bo put his arm around BL’s shoulders as they walked along the sidewalk, Sadie, nose to the concrete following something’s trail. “How come you all the sudden, moved into your own place?” Bo asked. “I’ll tell you when we get back to the house,” BL said. Their beers forgotten, Dixie and Luke were very busy with a heavy petting session. Across the yard, Gloria said, "Somethings wrong over there. Them kids are back there, then two of them left with a dog. Now, I can't see anything through the living room window." She had gone to every window on that side of the house and confirmed, "Nope, nothing." Her husband laughed to himself, "Good." —---------------------- Bo and BL took their time walking down the sidewalk, then cutting across, up by some of the businesses in the square, it was too dark already for window shopping in the closed stores darkened windows, so they crossed the street to the church then back to BL’s. “We better make our presence known before entering the livingroom,looks like,” BL said, seeing the blanket over the livingroom window. “Yeah”, Bo said. Bo made sure when he hit the wooden porch that his boots were heard. Across the yard, he and BL saw what Luke had suspected as the living room curtain moved. Dixie sat up quickly to fix her bra and shirt. She just remembered she was supposed to turn the oven back on, "Crap, I forgot to turn the oven back on." She jumped up quickly and hurried to the kitchen. After turning the oven back on she took the time to redo her ponytail. Luke had stood up to do some adjusting and shirt tucking of his own. He took his beer and sat back on the couch. He was grateful for his cousin's loud boots. “Pizza ready yet? I’m starving,“ Bo said. “Not yet”, Luke said. Dixie came back to the livingroom, sitting on the couch by Luke. BL sat down by Bo on the loveseat, “I guess ya’ll would like to know what’s up with my sudden move” BL said, three heads nodded ‘yes’. —--------------------------- BL told them about the talk with Clyde, “next thing I heard Dixie coming out of my mouth when he said…well bellowed is more like it…and I quote ‘Young lady as long as you live under my roof…’ and that’s when I told him I’d been wondering, what to do with this place, I packed some stuff and left,” BL said. Luke nearly choked on his beer at BL saying she heard Dixie come out of her mouth. "Hey! What's that supposed to mean?" Dixie asked. “It means cousin dear, at times you are ‘mouth of the south’,” BL said. Bo and Luke grinned widely. “I’m moving in for a few days atleast, then we’ll see,” BL said. All three nodded their understanding as they sipped their beers and waited on the pizza. —------------------------ When the pizza was done, Dixie cut it into four pieces and put it on paper plates. BL grabbed four beers and the group opted to eat in the living room. "Abner, Abner! Those boys are still over there with those girls and they are drinking BEER!" Gloria stressed the last word. Abner wondered out loud, "I wonder if they have an extra case or three?" When the pizza and beer was gone, Luke looked at the clock, "Bo we need to get out of here in a bit." "Why?" Bo asked. Luke began counting, "One - Mrs. Cravitz has already called Rosco. Two - We have to work tomorrow. Three - We know Mrs. Cravitz is watching our every move, ....." Bo broke in, "So what?" Luke gave him a look, " Four - If we stay much longer it won't be 'decent'. Five - None of us need to be the topic of the town gossip for the next month." —-------------------------- Gloria had gone about her routine, ignoring the young folks at least that’s what she wanted her husband to think. “We better get going Bo it’s nearly 10 o’clock”, Luke said. “Alright, I’m coming” Bo said, pulling BL up with him, putting his arms around her, holding her close. —----------------------------- “I’ll come by the post office tomorrow with a list of people Boss sold ‘luxury homes’ to,”Bo said. The girls walked the guys out, saying goodnight with long deep kisses, that left the guys needing a cold shower. “Abner, it's 10 o’clock and those boys are just leaving,” Mrs. Cravitz reported. “Gloria come away from that window!” Abner demanded, he’d had enough of Gloria’s spying. There was no way General Lee could be pulled out from anywhere quietly, but Bo did try. Luke ran dual glasspacks on his truck and it wasn't the quietest one in town as he backed out of the driveway and turned toward home. Once the guys were gone Dixie called it, "Dibs on a bath while you take Sadie out. I got farther to drive in the morning." BL chuckled “ok, I’ll clean up from where we ate too, won’t take me long”. Dixie got a towel and washcloth from the box of stuff she’d brought along with her nightshirt and headed to the bathroom. BL went to the kitchen, cleanup was a breeze it was just throwing away some trash. That done she opened the back door onto the back porch, “c’mon Sadie let’s go out”. Sadie bounded out the door to explore the fenced backyard, BL sat down on the porch edge thinking about her upcoming court hearing and wondered if any of the people Boss Hogg scammed, would show up to testify for her innocence. She also thought about whether or not she should move here permanently. —------------------------ Bo pulled General Lee into his usual place but unlike usual, Luke came around him to park closer to the house. Jesse looked at the clock and smiled. The boys were actually home early. He put down his Bible and picked up his coffee cup for a refill. He wanted to know more about Luke's call to him earlier about Miz Tisdale's place. Just as Jesse opened his door he heard the shower kick on and the refrigerator open. In the kitchen he found Bo about to make a sandwich. Jesse looked toward the bathroom door questioningly. Bo shrugged his shoulders. Jesse sat down at the table while Bo ate, “how did you four kids get on Rosco’s radar to get yourselves arrested?” Jesse asked. Bo finished chewing and swallowing ”beats me Uncle Jesse, Rosco said he got a call saying we were there to rob Miz Tisdale”. “Who in tarnation would do that?” Jesse fussed. “Mrs, Cravitz,” Bo said, answering Jesse’s question. “Miz Tisdale, sure, set him straight, didn’t even get us in a cell, he let us go soon as he got off the phone.” "Well that's good." Jesse said as he heard the shower cut off. He took a sip of coffee and waited. Bo rinsed his plate and glass out. "Night Uncle Jesse." "Good night Bo." Jesse said. —--------------------------- Luke came out of the bathroom carrying his boots and shirt. Dressed only in his jeans. "Hold it a minute Luke." Jesse said. Luke came into the kitchen, "Yes Sir?" Jesse asked, "Mrs. Cravitz?? What did ya'll do to her?" Luke replied, "Nothing. We showed up. I carried Dixie’s things in. Bo got there. We had a pizza in the oven. Rosco showed up to arrest us like we didn't belong. BL had an agreement with Miz Tisdale." "Were ya'll being loud with the cars?" Jesse asked. Luke replied. "Not intentionally but none of them are quiet." Jesse decided to push his nephew's buttons just a might. Jesse asked with a twinkle in his eye, "How many showers do you need a day?" Luke started to be annoyed but saw Jesse's expression and replied, "You wanted me home early. We left about 10 all nice and proper." "Good, keep it that way, but Luke, there are other options." “Other options?” Luke asked not quite following his Uncle. Jesse said straight faced, "If you married her, you wouldn't need those cold showers." Jesse grinned widely and stood up to head back to his room. Luke looked like he’d been slapped with a wet dish rag as he watched Jesse go back to his room and shut the door. —------------------------- In town at Miz Tisdale’s, BL was just coming out of the bathroom ready for bed in her nightgown, wet hair still wrapped in a towel. “Night Dix”, BL said on her way past the room Dixie had claimed earlier. "Night, BL. I'll try not to wake you and Sadie when I get up in the morning." Dixie said. She was in bed but not really sleepy.“Don’t worry about it, Sadie usually wants to go out about 6,” BL said, thinking she might do a little grocery shopping before meeting the mail truck at the post office at 8AM, Rheubottom’s opens at 7AM. "So, if I should get off on time, where do you think you'll be when I get back in the county?" BL pushed away from the bedroom doorway, going to the bedroom next to it to get her hairbrush. Coming back to sit on the end of the bed,removing the towel from her head, “The Boar’s Nest or the garage with the others I guess, like pretty much everyday after work. Why?...” Dixie replied, "OK. No reason really. Just wondering if I should pack this up in the morning or take a change of clothes with me to work. You know how the guys love it when I show up in work clothes and I really don't think Rosco likes it any more than he does knowing Luke’s pickup can legally run red lights." Dixie giggled at the thought of Luke driving the sheriff nuts once forest fire season arrived.BL giggled a little too, guessing what Dixie was thinking. ^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^

Next morning Uncle Jesse saw Cooter’s car parked alongside Luke’s truck and Daisy’s car, so he naturally assumed Cooter had stayed the night. He didn’t find the boys andCooter asleep in the barn as he’d expected, instead when he went back inside, he found the Davenport girls and Daisy cooking breakfast. Jesse wasn't really surprised that the girls stayed with Daisy but since the boys weren't in the barn he was now more than curious about where they were, after all he didn't run any broady house, "Here's some fresh eggs ladies. Where are the boys?" The girls looked at each other, each hoping the other would answer. Just then the phone rang. Daisy offered, "That's gonna be for you." “For me, how do you know that?” Jesse said, answering the phone. “Duke farm, this is Jesse” “Uncle Jesse it’s Luke” “Luke, where are you boys at?” ”Jail…” "Jail! What in tarnation for? Why, ain't neither one of ya been in jail since Bo went off to run NASCAR and you went to Smokejumper school." Jesse fussed. Luke was trying to be patient but Rosco was rushing him. He just needed a break to jump onto Jesse's train of thought, "Uncle Jesse, we'll explain everything on the way home. Rosco's rushing me." "You just put Rosco on the phone." Jesse said. —-------------------------- Luke knew that tone and winced at it as he handed Rosco the phone, but not without saying, "He wants to talk to you." Bo frowned, "That bad?" Luke nodded his head 'yes'. Rosco cleared his throat and said very official like, "Good morning. This is Sherifffff, RoscOooooooo P. Coltrane and how can I help you this lovely Sunday morning? Git. Git. GIT!" “ROSCO What in tarnation, are them boys in jail for?” Jesse was fired up. W…Well Jesse they was fighting and as usual it was their fault.” “Who was they fighting with?” Jesse asked, trying to stay calm. He looked over at the girls. “Ernie Ledbetter, who else?” Rosco said.”And Luther Davenport.” he added. LUTHER DAVENPORT!” Jesse looked at the girls again but none of them would make eye contact. Dixie knew what was coming when Jesse hung up the phone. “Have a seat ladies and tell me about last night”. —----------------------------------- Back at the jail… After handing the phone to Rosco Luke went over and made himself as comfortable as he could on half of the narrow bench that was on 3 sides of the old cell. Bo looked at him again like he was crazy, "What are you doing?" "Waiting." Luke said as he closed his eyes. Back at the Duke farm, Jesse poured a cup of coffee and waited to see which one of the girls answered him first. Daisy saw the pleading look on Dixie's face and began, "Well, after Cooter took his date home early, I rode to work with him. The others came with us since it was early." Jesse tried to remain silent but it was hard not to say something about early enough to stay out of jail. BL said, "Everything was OK until Ernie came in and Luke and Dixie were dancing, then, ... then, ...," All eyes went to Dixie. Dixie knew she was the only one close enough to have heard the exchange, "Erie called me a name to Luke,....." She put her hands up, "You know Luke. That is all it took." BL picked up the story, “next thing we knew total chaos erupted. Uncle Luther even got in the middle of it. Bo and Cooter were trying to break it up…unsuccessfully when Rosco came in.” “Rosco had Charlie call Cletus on the CB for backup and asked Dixie to call Tri-Counties for a transport van, cos 2 patrol cars wasn’t enough.”Daisy told him. Dixie picked back up, “Luke gave me his wallet and keys before he was taken out. Bo and Cooter saw what he did, so they gave their keys to BL and Daisy.” —------------------------------ Rosco had called Justice of the Peace, Boss Jefferson Davis Hogg, to tell him that he had a jail full of people needing a bond set. Jesse Duke filled his cup and poured a second cup, "Dixie, would you care to join me on the porch while they fix us up some breakfast?" It was a question, but left no room for decline as he left with both cups of coffee. Dixie replied lowly, "Sure, Uncle Jesse." She sent a pleading look for rescue to Daisy and BL. On the porch, Jesse handed Dixie her coffee and waited for her to get comfy. Then, said, "Honey, what did Ernie say to Luke?" Dixie looked at the porch floor as she repeated the slur Ernie had made toward her. Jesse pressed, "What got Luther in it?” —---------------------------- Dixie kept looking at the porch floor,”He just can’t let mine and Luke’s past go, we were dancing and Luke said something in my ear that was private and I guess Luther saw us closer than he liked and it got under his skin, even though him and Luke called a truce. He’d been drinking…”, Dixie trailed off not knowing what else to say. Jesse listened then asked “where do you want this relationship to go, or are you just trying to get back at Luther for interfering in that past you say he can’t let go of?” He tried to ask the question as gently as he could. Dixie was about to let Jesse have it but took a deep breath before speaking “I don’t want to start or cause trouble for any of us, I’ll be with him as long as he’ll have me. That’s what I told him yesterday when he asked me if I was on board openly seeing each other.” Jesse said “ok” He had no doubt, the young lady before him was sincere. —------------------------- Bo couldn't believe Luke, he'd been up all night basically pacing the floor and now that Uncle Jesse should be on the way to get them, Luke layed down. Bo had tried to get sleep last night but had managed to be kept up all night by Luke. Bo hadn't been at all happy about the way the night ended or being in jail either. He sat down on the bench with his back against the bars to wait. Boss Hogg came into the Courthouse and made his way to his office. Seeing 6 sets of paperwork he saw dollar signs! "Rosco, How on Earth did you manage to arrest six people after I left last night?" "Well, Boss, I'll tell you how it happened." He laughed his trademark laugh. Before Rosco could say two words the phone in Boss Hogg’s office rang, forgetting that Bo and Luke were in the cell, Boss picked up without closing the office door, “Hazzard County Courthouse, JD Hogg speaking.” “Say hello from Rosco”, Rosco said. Boss waved him away,listening to the Mob boss, who happened to be the ex-husband of the fancy lady who visited Boss at his Boars Nest office. He wanted to know what his ex-wife was spending his money on,”a spacious vacation home,with beautiful views.” Luke wasn’t asleep but pretended to be, he was listening to every word. Boss barely got the phone hung up, before it rang again, “Hazzard County Courthouse, “You got what? Pictures of a dude with an orange car!” Boss exclaimed, getting Bo and Luke’s full attention. Getting two more calls about getting pictures instead of deeds of ownership certificates, Boss pointed his cigar at Rosco. “Do you know what them last two calls were about?” Rosco shook his head ‘no’ “no Boss”. “They wanted to know why they got 20 pictures instead of a deed of ownership certificate for a vacation home.”Bo and Luke looked at each other Bo saying “so that’s what he’s upto.” —------------- Downstairs Cooter was thankful, that after Rosco had told Luther to hush that he had laid down and passed out. Cooter had slept some lightly. His eyes were open the minute Luther rolled over and began cursing. Luther couldn't believe it and had no recall of why he was waking up in jail this morning. When Rosco brought the phone down, Erie made his call. Then, Luther instructed Cooter to call Dixie to come get them. Cooter put the call through. After a full minute of rings he hung up. "What?" Luther said. "She didn't answer." Cooter said. "Call Cylde." Luther said. Rosco said, "Nope, naughty naughty. You only get 1 call, Cooter." "Give me that damned phone." Luther took the phone and placed his call to his brother. —--------------------------- Rosco was now out in his office when the Leadbetter’s people showed up and bonded them out. He made his way downstairs to get the ring leader of last night's trouble. Seeing Luke still in the cell Ernie smirked “see ya around jailbird” he said over his shoulder. On their way out the Ledbetter’s met Clyde on his way in, “Rosco, get my brother and nephew”. Clyde said. Bo and Luke were starting to get antsy, Jesse used to come bail them out as soon as they called. Rosco brought the 2 Davenport men upstairs and Clyde paid their bail, “Luther, what in the world got into you? You ain’t been arrested on a Saturday night, since you had kids”. “Too much beer got in him”, Cooter muttered. —------------------ Jesse pulled up at the courthouse as the Davenport men were pulling onto the street. Jesse was glad for the opportunity to get his boys without having to deal with them and Luther running into each other. "Alright, JD. What's it gonna take to get my boys?" Jesse boomed. He'd been doing this for too many years. Luke was holding his breath after hearing Boss Hogg’s conversations this morning. He wasn't at all sure they would be released on bail. Boss Hogg, however, named the bail at $200. Jesse paid it, signed the papers and waited for Rosco to open the cell. Luke still wasn't sure this was going to work even after the cell door opened. Bo stepped out first and Luke none to gently hurried him towards the door. Jesse had seen them anxious to get out of jail before but picked up on Luke's urgency. Once in the truck and away from the curb Jesse said “let's have it.” —----------------------------------- “It wasn’t our fault Uncle Jesse, Ledbetter shot off his mouth like he always has and I shut it for him”, Luke said. “We swapped a few licks, then he sent me crashing into Luther’s table, next thing anybody knew, all chaos had broke loose and Luther was in it but he only wanted to fight me, which didn’t make much sense cos we agreed to a truce before the dance, shook on it even. Then Rosco came in and saw it all, don’t know who called Cletus though.” Bo jumped in, “Me and Cooter sorta just got dragged into it, Ernie was about to get Luke again, while he was trying to defend hisself from Luther so I punched him. Cooter was trying to get Luther under control. He’d had too much to drink,” Luke finished the tale, “Rosco had Dixie call Tri-Counties for a van because there wasn’t room in 2 patrol cars.” "We gave the girls our keys." Luke said. Bo added, "Yeah, we gotta get up with them and get your truck and Daisy’s car." Jesse broke in to stop the speeding trains of thought, "Hold it, jist hold it one danged minute!" Jesse said, pausing to let them both hush, "I want to know why you, Luke, were in such a hurry to get away from the Courthouse? I saw you shove Bo at least three times on the way to the car." Luke replied, "I, we, heard and learned some stuff while we were waiting, but the girls need to hear this too. I'll just yell for them on the CB so we can all meet up." Luke reached for the CB mic. Just as he keyed the mic, Jesse reached over and cut the radio off. "There's no need to radio them. They are at the farm with Daisy." —----------------------------- A few miles down the road Clyde broke the silence “Luther,what got into you? You ain’t spent a saturday night in jail, since before Cooter was born. Luther mumbled something about his girl and a Duke. Cooter just gave his uncle a look that said it had nothing to do with Dixie. —------------------------- At the Duke farm Luke told everyone “me and Bo heard something while we were waiting for Uncle Jesse, lets go out on the porch, with something cold to drink and I’ll tell you.” Daisy fixed a tray with a pitcher of tea and enough glasses of ice for all. Jesse sat in the old rocking chair, Luke and Dixie were on the porch swing, Bo was on the edge of the porch, BL sat on the step below leant against his leg. “Shouldn’t Cooter be here to hear this too,” Daisy asked .------------------------------- Clyde made a non committal sound, he didn’t believe Luther that this was about Dixie. As soon as Clyde “dropped them off, Cooter headed to the Duke farm, without telling Luther where he was going. Pulling up at the Duke farm, he saw everybody on the front porch,”Hey, what’s up?” Cooter asked. —-------------------------- "Grab a seat, Cooter. The boys are fixin' to tell us what they heard at the jail." Uncle Jesse said. No one paid any attention to Luke's arm across the swing, behind Dixie, as she snuggled in closer to the freshly shower and shaved older Duke. Bo started, "Darlin' you ain't gonna believe this..." "If Boss Hogg is involved and making money, I'd believe just about anything," BL said. Cooter headed to take a seat on the porch banister, only now seeing Luke’s arm on the back of the swing, behind and around Dixie, who was doing her own snuggling of Luke. The boys repeated what they had overheard at the jail. "Does any of this make any sense BL?" Luke asked, then added, "Is there any way Bo could have gotten mail intended for Boss?" “I guess Boss must have already told that the money should go to PO box 100, so yeah Bo could have gotten Boss Hogg’s mail.” BL said. “If we can get hold of how, they know what PO box we can get Boss to clear you darlin” Bo said. “Yeah but how are we gonna do that? BL asked. —------------------------- Back at the Courthouse, Boss Hogg asked Rosco, "How, just how, could my customers have gotten pictures of Bo Duke instead of their money getting to me?" "I don't know Boss, maybe you should have asked Bo, before he made bond." Rosco said. "Dang. Danged and double danged!" Boss said, knowing he had had Bo and Luke behind bars and let them go without answers. At the Duke farm. Everyone had collected all the recent newspapers, magazines, and trading papers. Each was looking to see if they could find and look at any ads that could be being mailed to PO Box 100 Hazzard, USA. Rosco was cleaning up the jail from all his prisoners and found a racing magazine. He thumbed through it and found none other than Bo Duke's ad for an autographed picture. “Jit,jit Boss ain’t gonna like this”, Rosco muttered. Taking the magazine to Boss Hogg’s office, Rosco laid it on the desk saying, “Look at this Boss”. Boss Hogg looked at the ad, "That could explain a lot." Now he just had to figure out how to tie the Duke boys in with the Davenport girl. —--------------------------- At the Duke farm in one of the papers from Atlanta, Cooter saw the ad,"Luke look at this." Luke indeed looked at it. The paper was old. "This here paper is from Atlanta, let me call Phil and see when it started running." Luke went into the house to make the call “Thanks Phil, appreciate it”. Luke hung up the phone and came back out on the porch.” Phil said the ad was placed the Wednesday before you got the post office job, BL”. “When did you rent the box? Luke asked. “It was Monday or Tuesday,” BL replied. Back at the courthouse, Boss Hogg paced in his office, puffing on his cigar trying to come up with a plan of how to tie the Duke boys in with the Davenport girl. He had sent Rosco on patrol so he could think better. —---------------------------- Later, the Dukes and Davenports decided to try their luck at the Boar's Nest in hopes of seeing or hearing something. Boss Hogg made his way out front to get some pickled pigs feet to help him think. That's when he saw it. There was Bo Duke dancing with the Davenport girl from the Post Office and not far off was Luke Duke dancing with the other Davenport girl. That was it, surely they were in cahoots! —---------------------------- It was stifling hot in the Boar’s Nest, so the Duke boys and Davenport girls had gone outside to cool, the CB in BL’s car crackled to life “Rosco you out there?” Boss Hogg said. “Roscoooo P. Coltrane here”. “Rosco, I want you to get over to Holly Hills pronto.” “What for, Boss?” Rosco asked. “NEVERMIND WHAT FOR, JUST GO!” Boss Hogg shouted. “Wonder what’s so urgent?” BL wondered aloud. Luke replied. "I don't know, but what do you say we find out?" Dixie replied, "I'm game." Before Bo could say anymore, Luke suggested rather strongly, "While we are gone, ya'll can keep your ears open here." With that, he and Dixie were in his pick up and gone. “Well, are we supposed to just sit here in the parking lot til they get back?” BL asked. Bo shrugged, "Might be a long wait, Darlin'." “As long as they don’t completely forget what they're supposed to be doing,” BL said. —------------------------------ At Holly Hills, Luke slowed up and parked out of sight. He reached in his turnout bag and grabbed a camera before heading off to see whatever it was Boss surely didn't want seen. Cresting the hill Luke whispered “Luxury vacation homes, my Aunt Fannie”, zooming in the powerful lens of the state of the art digital camera used by the Smokejumpers to take pictures at fire sites. At the bottom were several tiny homes, all built in one grand style or another to look like full size houses of the same styles. “Hey Dixie, ain’t that the house in the ad.?” Luke asked. Dixie raised the binoculars,scanning the tiny houses “Sure looks like it, make sure you get a picture so we can compare it to the house in the ad,” Dixie said. Luke took enough pictures, especially of the one in the ad, "There, now we can get them printed tomorrow." Luke eased his truck out easily without being spotted. Since he was already at the lake he figured to circle around just to see if there were any more little houses around. —--------------------------- Feeling confident they had what they had come to get, Dixie kicked her shoes off, pulled her feet up in the seat and turned to face Luke as he drove, she began running her fingers around and down Luke's neckline of his shirt getting lower and lower as she managed to undo a button or three..... Luke’s jeans got a little bit tighter with every touch of Dixie’s fingers against his skin and every button she undid,”keep that up and I’m going to need a cool dip in the lake,” Luke said. "Are you sure about that dip?" Dixie asked. Luke was sure she knew exactly what she was doing to him and doing it purposely. The next wide spot off from the lake, Luke stopped the truck. He nearly couldn't get stopped soon enough for his taste. Once stopped, he was out of the truck and managed to shuck his clothes off down to his boxers before he hit the cool water. Dixie watched from the truck until he hit the water. She got out and went toward the lake, "Luke? What are you doing?" She asked, smiling widely. "Cooling off. Care to join me?" Luke asked. The cool water had the desired effect on over heated areas of Luke's body. Right up until Dixie called his bluff by kicking off her boots, tossing her shirt and bra. She stood watching Luke watch her as she undid her jeans then met him in the water. —----------------------- Back at the Boars Nest, Rosco was just going into Boss Hogg’s office to give a report as BL and Bo sat back down at the table, to wait for Luke and Dixie to come back. It being a sunday afternoon, there wasn’t much of a crowd in the Boar’s Nest so there wasn’t alot of noise, Bo and BL listened to Rosco’s report to Boss because he had forgotten to close the door completely. “I hope Luke and Dixie got some good pictures,”BL said. Bo put his arm around BL just a bit tighter, "They will, Darlin'. I know it sounds easy to say, but things will really be alright." BL leaned into Bo smiling, she still felt goosebumps being in his arms, despite her worry about court, “I know you're right Bo.” Bo added, "Besides the dinners chip beef ain't that bad at Hazzards jail and at Tri-Counties you and Dixie could visit while she's at work " BL pulled out of Bo’s arms, punching him in the bicep, “that’s not funny Bo!”, BL exclaimed, folding her arms. “I was just teasing darlin, don’t be mad,” Bo wheedled, giving her his lady killer grin. "Bo, if Rosco is back here talking to Boss,...." BL began, "Where is Luke and Dixie?" “They are probably just taking their time coming back,” Bo said. Bo was probably right BL decided, they hadn’t been arrested Rosco was back she reasoned. —-------------------------- At the lake the cool water had calmed Luke down, right up until he felt Dixie in his arms. All other/reasonable thoughts had left their minds as years of pent up desire reached its boiling point. Since Luke had his pickup, setting up a pretty cozy camp hadn't been hard. He had laid out his tarp and blanket then before it got dark had built a decent fire. Dixie currently had his lighter blanket wrapped around her like an oversized towel while Luke had found his swim trunks he kept in his work bag. Dixie was sitting in front of Luke as they were watching the fire. Luke was usually the voice of reason asked, "Are you in a hurry to get back?" Dixie turned in his arms and replied, "Nope." "Good." Luke said as he put a couple more pieces of wood on the fire. He had been watching Dixie in the fire light. He brushed her hair back from her face as Dixie moved closer he began kissing her deeply. —--------------------------- “Where are they Bo? They should have been back way before now” BL said. Bo kissed her forehead “they prob’ly decided to watch things awhile, don’t worry darlin”, Bo replied. BL picked up the CB mic “Little Shotgun, Lost Sheep 1, ya’ll got your ears on?, come back. Little Shotgun, Lost Sheep 1, this is Sweet Talker.” BL tried to raise Dixie and Luke on the CB but they just wasn’t answering. “C’mon we know where they were going,we’ll go look for’em.” Bo said, starting up General Lee as BL climbed in. A little ways from Holly Hill, BL saw what looked like smoke rising into the sky “is that smoke”, BL asked. “Let’s see”, Bo said. Swim trunks and blanket had been shed. Dixie and Luke were very involved in some very unlady and ungentlemanly things, so much that the sound of the General Lee didn't register to either of them. “Down there’s where the smoke’s coming from,” BL said. About 100 yards off the road they saw Luke’s truck, “we found ‘em”, Bo said as they got a little closer they could tell the couple was very involved. “Holy toledo!”, both BL and Bo said in unison, covering their eyes. “Good thing we came looking, if Luther got a wrecker call out this way and came to investigate the smoke Luke would be a dead man”,BL said. Bo keeping his eyes on his lap, hit the horn, the sound of ‘dixie’ breaking into the quiet night. —----------------------------- Dixie jumped and reached for the blanket. Luke was close very close, "Don't stop. It's just Bo. Don't stop." He doubled his efforts to recapture Dixie’s fullest attention. Bo did have the good graces to shut off General Lee's headlights. Luke pulled Dixie tighter, entering her deeply. Dixie was trying very hard to be quiet. She was glad her nails were short or Luke's back would be bleeding as she dug her nails into him and pulled him tighter to her with her legs. Luke knew he'd succeeded in pleasing Dixie as he found his own release and really didn't care that Bo knew. Dixie and Luke were now trying to remember how to breathe. Giving Dixie and Luke a couple minutes to catch their breath, Bo climbed out of General Lee, keeping his eyes averted from Dixie, ]“I thought you were smarter than this? There are at least 100 better places, with more privacy in the next 5 miles down the road”Bo ranted. “Bo..”,Luke tried to break into Bo’s rant. “What if it hadn’t been me? You didn’t even stop to consider whether or not somebody might be with me, which there is, or did you forget BL?” Luke cursed when he saw BL leaning forward, head in her hands, so she couldn’t see anything, she shouldn’t. —--------------------- Luke swore, "Sh--!" Dixie saw Bo looking away as he was talking to, ..... well ok, maybe fussing at Luke was a better choice of words. She reached for the blanket and again put it around her like a large beach towel. She then found Luke shorts and put them in his hand as he replied to Bo. "You are right on at least a couple of points there,.." He now slid his shorts on. He felt about ten as he said, "There were some extenuating circumstances. Sorry BL, you can get out now." BL slid out General Lee’s window when Luke said it was ok now. Sitting on the tarp BL looked at Dixie, blanket wrapped around her like a beach towel. “Are you deliberately trying to antagonize Luther?” BL asked. She wasn’t thinking about how Clyde was going to react to her not having been home yet since leaving Friday morning, except to take Sadie home, Friday afternoon. “No”, Dixie replied. “Well what did you see?”, BL asked. “This”, Luke said, getting the camera and a flashlight from his truck. “You’ll be able to see better once they're printed.” Bo sat behind BL, putting his arms around her as Luke scrolled through the pictures with one hand, holding the maglite in the other. BL stated the obvious, "They look too small to be luxury homes." “That’s cos they ain’t luxury homes, Boss just blew up the picture in the ad so it looked like a luxury home”,Luke said. Dixie nodded her head 'yes', "They are very tiny.” Luke said, "Are you all staying with us?" He had a piece of wood about to put it in the fire to keep it going. “How about it darlin’?”, Bo asked BL while massaging her shoulders. “Yeah”, BL said. She was more relaxed now, than Bo had seen her all day. Luke tossed another piece of wood on the fire then he put the camera and flashlight back in his truck. —-------------------------------- Luke had to dig deep in his bag but finally found what he was looking for, a full quarter of Jesse's finest. It had been a long while since he and Bo had had a night like this with the girls of their choice. Luke intended for it to be a good one. "Anyone care to join me?" “I will” Dixie said, adding as she took her clothes from BL,”be back in a second”. Dixie got up, disappearing behind what little coverage there was. ”Me too”, BL said. It had been a rough few days and Bo’s massaging hands had her relaxed.Coming back after dressing, Dixie took the tin cup of shine Luke handed her. Luke had found a couple tin camping cups he kept stowed in the pickup. Bo got his own camp cup and his sleeping bag, from General Lee’s trunk, something had told him he might need his camping gear, so he’d put it in the General before going to the Boar’s Nest. Spreading out the sleeping bag, he sat down, patting beside him “come sit with me darlin”, Bo said to BL. —----------------- Everyone was enjoying a drink of shine while relaxing by the fire near the water. The evening temperatures were nearly perfect with a bit of a warm breeze blowing. Dixie and Luke had always been comfortable together, for the most part way too comfortable. Dixie knew that BL and Bo had always run around together but really hadn't known them to date or well date steadily. Maybe it was something, maybe it was nothing but it seemed that they were acting a bit closer tonight. Dixie took a long slow drink of the shine, "I really missed all this while I was gone." "All what, Darlin'?" Luke asked. "This. Just coming out here. Stopping at a random stop and being able to set up camp, have a drink with friends and family. By the way, exactly how long were you planning all this?" Luke smiled, "I really wasn't planning anything." —---------------------- BL said, "Yet you had everything ready to camp out?" "Remember I work in the woods. If I have my truck even at base camp, I'm golden. If we jump or hike in then we are limited to what we want to carry besides everything that we have to carry." Luke noticed Bo's hands doing a bit of wandering as they were all talking. Wandering hands was not unusual for Bo Duke, but the fact they were wandering over BL Davenport and she wasn't objecting was different. “Camping gear maybe but do you always carry this?”,BL held up the jar of shine, before refilling her cup. “No, I planned to bring the shine”, Luke admitted. Bo pushed BL’s hair to the side nuzzling her neck. Luke was always the planner, "Say Bo, before we get too settled, we need to go grab a bit more wood." Bo gave BL a kiss and said, "We'll be right back." Bo didn't complain because he had actually wanted to talk to Luke in private. Down by the water, Bo checked his wallet and found what he expected. He had just one rubber. "Luke, would you happen to have an extra?" Luke wasn't thinking along his lines, "Extra what?" —----------------------------- While the guys gathered more wood BL and Dixie had some privacy and BL wanted to talk, “Dixie, have you lost the good sense the good Lord gave you?”, BL asked. Dixie couldn't help but give BL the slightest grin, "Meaning what?" “Well for starters, how about being parked so close to the side of the road, doing what you were doing”,BL said. "I'll admit I'm probably more than a bit to blame for that." Dixie bit her lip and grinned mischievously. “There’s no probably about it”, BL tried to give Dixie a disapproving look but didn’t quite pull it off. Dixie shrugged her shoulders and took a long drink of shine, "It was a long time coming." She couldn't help the grin as the double meaning of her statement struck her funny bone. “Better ease up on this stuff”BL shook her cup, swirling her shine around. “We got to work tomorrow”, BL took a long drink, ignoring her own advice. "I have a holiday, they missed giving me. I'm off tomorrow." She said taking another drink of shine. “Got an answer for everything tonight don’t you?, What are you gonna tell Luther about not coming home?”, BL gave Dixie a smug look. Dixie said, "Maybe I'll just tell him what I do isn't any of his business." Before BL could reply, the guys were back with the wood. Luke asked, "What isn't any of who's business? —----------------------------- “You know what. There’s a pretty girl waiting for me over there,” Bo said. Luke finally caught Bo’s train of thought, “I think so, let me check”, Luke took out his own wallet, he had a few rubbers and gave one to Bo. “Here, lucky for you, I have a few”. They gathered more firewood, then returned to the campsite, Luke threw a couple sticks on the fire. Bo let his hands wander some more as he and BL started to kiss, a little at first then deeper with each kiss they shared. The campfire wasn’t burning as hot as their passion though. Luke had managed to move his stuff just a bit out of the light and a might further away from Bo and BL. Luke certainly had no plans to sleep beside Dixie with Bo and BL on the other side of the fire. Once everything was laid out they settled back in to watch the fire, sip some more shine and cuddle under the stars. Bo and BL picked up where they had stopped earlier, Bo slid his hands under BL’s shirt undoing her bra. At the same time she was unbuttoning his shirt, trailing kisses all the way to his belly button. Not giving Luke nor Dixie another thought, clothes were shucked and they were soon spent and breathing hard, Bo’s sleeping bag around them. BL wrapped in Bo’s arms, drifted off into peaceful slumber. Kissing BL’s temple, Bo too found sleep easy. ^^^^^^^^^^^^

Saturday morning the town was a hive of activity,everyone was getting things set to start celebrating founder’s day in a couple hours when they normally started conducting business. Miz Tisdale was running the post office one last time, before moving to her sister’s, so BL could finish her dress and get ready for the dance. “Whew, done at last’ BL held up the finished,dark green dress for Dixie to see. “I still got a few threads to trim.” BL said. —------------------- In town decorations and stands were being put out for the many planned events. At the Duke farm Luke was on the porch putting the finishing touches on his ax with his sharpening stones. Jesse was packing stuff in a cooler to make his famous chili at the chili cook off, while Bo got in some target practice with his bow and arrows for the archery contest. Balladeer: This time without dynamite arrows. Daisy was entering the pie baking competition and was busy setting her famous apple pie out of the oven, to cool. Luke ribbed, "I loaded some dummy arrows if you want to try them out." Bo glared at his older cousin, "Cute, Luke, real cute!" Luke shrugged his shoulders and kept sharpening. "So you are really taking Dixie to the dance tonight?" Luke glared hard at Bo, "Yes, and what about it?" Bo knew the look and promptly put his hands up in front of him in defense, "Nothing Luke. I swear, ..... it's just that… "That what?" Luke asked. Bo breathed in and out deeply before beginning. "Now I like Dixie. Love her like a sister....but last time ...." Luke glared with a hard look, "Yeah last time I was 19, she was 15. Did you know she was 15???" Bo dropped his head, "No. No, Luke I didn't." Luke threw his hands up in his own defense, "I didn't either Bo. So, sue me! I didn't either, .....and she didn't know what a major issue a few months was,.... but now it's years later and those few months mean nothing." Bo said lowly, "Unless you are Luther Davenport." Luke shot him a look. —---------------------- In town booths were set up all over, Luke, Dixie, Bo and BL wandered from booth to booth looking at the handmade quilts, ect. for sale. —--------------------------- “Hey Dixie, that looks like fun” BL pointed to the dunk tank, where Cletus was just climbing back onto the platform after getting a good dunking. “Sure does, let's play” Dixie replied. The couples went over to the booth where Bo gave a dollar to the vendor, getting 3 baseballs which he handed to BL “it’s on me darlin’”. BL took the balls, hurling one at the little target that covered the dunking lever “this is for scaring me and Dixie half to death last night” BL called to the soggy deputy.SPLASH Cletus yelped as he hit the cold water. SPLASH,SPLASH two more times, BL hit the target giving Cletus another unscheduled bath. After making sure that Cletus had a couple weeks worth of baths the group decided to make their way to other booths. —------------------------- Church groups, lady's league even the orphanage had booths set up with games, ring toss, clothespins into milk bottles. The food and other contests would be later in the day since some foods had to be cooked on site. After the prizes were awarded, the contestants sold their entries to raise money for various charities. "Good luck Uncle Jesse, we'll see you later for the judging" Daisy said as they watched the chili cookoff contestants preparing to get started. The others wished Uncle Jesse good luck too. "Thank you kids," Jesse replied. Other food contestants had already begun cooking and the town was beginning to smell wonderful. Bo rubbed his stomach. "I sure hope they cook fast." Luke shook his head, "Always thinking about food. Shouldn't you be thinking about who else entered the archery contest." "I ain't worried." Bo said confidently. "What about the axe throwing?" Luke replied, "I still wished some of my guys would have come over and entered. Some are pretty good but when I told them you have to catch the axe first, everyone lost interest." Luke rubbed his neck as if he just could not figure out why his guys lost interest. —----------------------- “Let’s all enter the horseshoe toss, guys against girls” BL said. Luke stepped up to the table paying his and Dixie’s entry fee, stepping out of the way so Bo could pay his and BL’s entry fee. Dixie went first for the girls, Luke took position a few feet away. When Dixie bent over to pick up a horseshoe, Luke’s toss went wild, nearly hitting Jed McCoy in the shin, “Hey watch what you're throwing them thangs at!” Jed yelled. “Huh, oh sorry Jed” Luke looked a bit sheepish. Bo ribbed his cousin a bit even if he hadn't seen the reason for Luke's wild throw. "You don't have to just throw them things away over there. We'll beat you fair and square." —------------------------ “Cute, Bo. It slipped. Let's see what you have." Bo threw the horseshoe that landed around the pin for a nice wringer until it spun around and slid right off the pin. Bo was just about to brag when the shoe slid away from the pin. Luke nearly spit his teeth out. —---------------------------- BL managed to get a leaner with her first horseshoe. Bo's second shoe was much closer than where his first had landed, however it moved BL's leaner off the pin. —----------------------------- A live band had been hired too, tuckered from running around all morning the two couples had spread blankets on the grass so they could rest and listen to the music. The band was playing Kenny Chesney’s ‘ When the sun goes down,’ Luke slid his arm around Dixie’s shoulders as they listened. —------------------------ Luther was on his way to the garage when he cut through the square where people were watching the music. He really hadn't been looking at anyone as he crossed until he caught a glimpse of Dixie sitting on a blanket with Luke. Luther stopped dead in his tracks in front of the couple. Luke had been paying more attention to the music than who was walking by or where his hand was at. Right up until Luther stopped in front of him and glared. Dixie was watching the goings on in the square so she missed the exchange. Luke was trying hard to not make a thing out of this so he removed his hand and reached over for a cold drink from the cooler. Dixie may not have seen but Bo did. —---------------------------- Once Luke's hand was moved, Luther proceeded on after giving Luke another look. BL had seen it all too, she was glad Luther hadn’t made a scene, she just hoped there wasn’t one tonight when Luke picked Dixie up for the dance. Bo was glad he wasn’t Luke. Although Clyde was a might over protective, having raised BL by himself after his wife died when BL was 13, he wasn’t unreasonable and tried to treat BL like a responsible grown woman, not a kid. —--------------------- The veins in Luke's neck tensed as he watched Luther walk away. He couldn't help but wonder if he should just walk away and go back to Atlanta. No, maybe Dixie would go to Atlanta with him. Then he thought of something Uncle Jesse told them years ago, 'Dukes don't run. Sometimes we want to run, sometimes we ought to run, but we don't and aren't now.' They had asked. 'Why?' Jesse had said. 'Because we got nowhere to run.' Well, it had been good enough for Dukes before him, so it would have to be good enough for him now. "Want to take a walk?" He asked Dixie casually, while giving Bo a look that said he wanted sometime. Dixie said. "Sure, Luke." getting to her feet. After Luke and Dixie had gone Bo moved a bit closer to BL, he didn’t want any looks from Clyde should he walk by, so he was watching how friendly he was with BL. “I can’t wait for the dance tonight,” Bo said. “Me either” BL replied. “Has Luke said anything to you about him and Dixie being back together?” BL asked,careful not to let her expression betray Dixie’s confidence. “No, he’s been tight lipped, I tried to get him to admit something the night he and Dixie went MIA but he wouldn’t talk” Bo said. BL nodded, reaching for a drink from the cooler. —---------------------- Dixie walked with Luke in silence for a long while before she took his hand and stepped in front of him, "What's on your mind Luke?" Dixie had done it to him again. She could nearly read him like a book. Luke took a deep breath before he began, "You know that no matter how I've wanted to ask you out officially, I've taken my time. I've given you, me, everyone else time to get used to seeing us together." Dixie nodded, "Yes." Yes he had, which had nearly driven her insane. "A bit ago, no one but me noticed that your Dad walked by," Luke stated. It was true, Dixie hadn't seen her Dad. "He gave me one look and for about a whole second, I thought about packing it in." Luke said. Dixie's heart fell to her shoes as she heard what Luke had said, "Luke..." He stopped her in mid sentence, "I said for a second." Luke paused, "I just need to know, 100 percent, you are on board with this before I have to dig in my heels. Last time, .... ages and law got in the way. I didn't have a leg to stand on. This time, ....." Luke looked Dixie up and down, "this time, ... ages be damned. There's no laws to stop us, ..... Just as long as you are on board." Dixie felt a long ago sensation of electricity run through her as she stepped close to Luke, "I don't want to cause or start any trouble for any of us, but I'm here, with you, for as long as you'll have me." That wasn't exactly what Luke expected to hear, but he knew her heart. He leaned in for a long, deep kiss.... The kiss lasted a full 2 minutes before Dixie slowly pulled back. “Guess we should get back, before our cousins come looking for us,” Dixie said breathlessly. “S’pose so” Luke said,wrapping his arm around Dixie’s waist. The couple walked back to where the band was playing, Luke still had his arm around Dixie. —---------------------------- “Was wondering what happened to you two, hey Dix, we better get going if we’re going to be ready for the dance on time, ” BL said. The guys were going to find Uncle Jesse, so the foursome parted ways and the girls headed back to the Davenport farm. BL looked over her shoulder after putting the last hairpin in “Dix you're not going to have any nails at all if you keep chewing on them” BL said. Dixie took the pinky from her mouth “I can’t help it. I’m just a wee bit nervous” Dixie replied. “A wee bit?” BL cocked an eyebrow at her cousin, “you're as jumpy as a long tailed cat,in a room full of rocking chairs” BL said. Dixie replied as she looked at the wrecker sitting in the yard through her window, "Why can't he get a call? You know standing in Luke's arms, I wasn't a bit nervous about Daddy. But right now at this moment I feel like I'm three again." “Dixie you ain’t 15 anymore, Luther’s just gonna have to accept, that you're grown now and he can’t run your life,”.BL said continuing. ,“how do you think my Daddy feels? He don’t like what I do always but he lets me do it anyway, don’t get me wrong, he don’t just accept it quietly, no siree he fusses till he’s blue.”. —----------------------- At the Duke farm, Luke had set to as he put it, cleaning his truck up, even though it was clean, while Bo took a shower. Bo was getting dressed when he heard Luke swear from the bathroom. Followed shortly by another round of swearing. "You alright in there Luke?" Bo asked. Luke mumbled something then said, "I swear Daisy has been using my razor again." “At least it wasn’t mine,” Bo ribbed. “Cute Bo” Luke grumbled, as he came into his and Bo's room. He took out a good pair of jeans which he put a pair of suspenders on with. Took out a clean shirt. He then brushed his polished boots. “You sure are pulling out all the stops getting ready” Bo commented casually, buttoning his shirt. “Tonight’s kinda special.” “What’s so special, it’s just the founder’s day dance”. “Well you know that walk me and Dixie took in town today?” “Yeah…” Bo said. “Dixie and I talked, we don’t want to start trouble for nobody but I ain’t gonna let Luther or anybody else get in my way again. I am going to see Dixie and I don’t give a damn who don’t like it. Dixie said she was with me 100 percent.” “I hope you know what you’re doing cousin,” Bo said. “I do..If you want, go on and pick up BL”. “Think I’ll go when you do, you might need backup”, Bo said. Luke replied, "Suit yourself." —------------------------- A short time later, all three younger Davenports were dressed and ready to head out on the town for some fun. Luther was drinking his coffee and reading the paper not paying much attention to the goings on in the house. Cooter had just picked up his keys, ready to go get his date when the unmistakable sound of Daisy's Roadrunner coming up the driveway was heard. It was followed by Luke's F-250 King cab pickup. Luther looked up from his paper, "Are you all meeting over here or something before going out?" Cooter wasn't sure what the others had planned, "Not that I know of, I was about to head out." But, something made Cooter wait before heading out. —------------------------- Luther heard not a set of high heels and boots on his porch but two sets of boots. He looked at Cooter. Cooter shrugged his shoulders. He answered the door when it was knocked on. Bo said, "Hey Cooter. Is BL ready?" Cooter yelled upstairs, "BL, Bo's here." Bo stepped aside a bit waiting for BL. Cooter saw Luke behind Bo and thought it was a might odd, even if the two were riding together, that Luke would have gotten out of the vehicle too. Either he would have picked up his date or be rushing Bo so they could get on their way to pick his date up. "Cooter shrugged his shoulders, “Hey Luke. What’s up? Luke stood up just a bit straighter. He was talking to Cooter, but years of knowing the family told Luke that Luther was in earshot. "I've come to take Dixie to the dance Cooter." At that moment Bo wished he wasn't standing basically between Luke and the Davenports. Before Cooter could reply, Luther was at the door. "You think you are going to do what?" Luther's voice boomed. Yes, this was the scene. The exact one Luke deep down expected. "I am taking Dixie to the dance. I asked. She accepted. Plain and simple." BL cringed when Luther boomed and thought here he goes. “Hey Bo, Luke”, BL said, going to stand by Bo, watching the other men. —---------------------- “Hey BL” Luke said. “Hey BL, you look nice” Bo said the tension in the room was so thick you could cut it with a knife. Dixie hoped to make it down the stairs and continue on out the door. The rafters of the old farm house had just been rattled. She hoped the roof didn't collapse. "Hi, guys. Are you ready Luke?" Dixie said wisely, stepping to Luke's left side. —----------------------- Luther looked at his daughter, then to Cooter. Cooter was giving his father a look that he hoped would remind him that the last time Dixie left it was years before she came around again. Luther was torn between normal reason and still owing Luke the lesson he apparently didn't get several years ago. Luther said calmer than he felt as he looked, Luke in the eyes, "I'd like a word with you." Dixie gently held on to Luke's arm as she said, "We'll be late." Luke's eyes never moved off of Luther, "We won't be long Darlin'." He said as he stepped to follow Luther into the kitchen. —------------------------- As Luke followed Luther into the kitchen the others gave each other worried looks. ”Patty Lou’s, going to think I’m standing her up, if I’m late” Cooter said but he wasn’t leaving until Luke and his father came out of the kitchen. “I bet Dad is going to blow a gasket and try to start something,” Dixie said. “It’ll be fine Dixie” BL said with more confidence than she felt. The room went silent, each of them trying to hear what was being said in the kitchen. “At least it ain’t sounding like WW3 in there”, Bo said. “Yet…” Dixie said, knowing both men were stubborn. —-------------------------- Luther began, "Luke... Nothing has changed here. Dixie is my little girl." Luke cut in, "Everything has changed. She is your daughter and I respect that, but she is a grown woman. Until the other night when I asked her out I had not pursued, chased or even encouraged her. Dixie is an adult. She makes her own money and decisions. I just want to take her out and be able to have a conversation without half the County...." Luke trailed off and regrouped his thoughts, "Luther I respect you. I have never intended to hurt Dixie. What happened before wasn't intentional. You should know me better than that." “I do Luke, Jesse raised you right” Luther said. “Truce” Luke held his hand out for a handshake. Luther gave it a firm shake, “You better treat her right and not hurt her, or you’ll answer to me and most likely Cooter too.” “Yes sir”, Luke said respectfully, leaving the kitchen, Luther following. —----------------- As soon as Luke saw Dixie’s worried look he smiled, taking her hand heading for the door, “Ready?..told you it wouldn’t take long”. Luther told them goodbye,returning to his newspaper. Luke took Dixie's hand, heading toward the door at a trot. He wasn't slowing down until they got to the truck. At the truck, Luke decided the best, fastest, easiest way to get Dixie in the truck was to just lift her into the passenger seat and let her wrangle all that dress inside while he made his way to the driver's seat, "Ready?" Dixie replied, "Always." —-------------------- With that Luke unintentionally slung a pile of gravel as he backed up, turned around and headed down the driveway. Dixie cringed just a bit, knowing how Luther was about his gravel. "That bad?" "Worse....." Luke began gripping the steering wheel tightly. "We called a truce. Shook on it even, but I don't see that being the end of the tension." Dixie didn't either, "Maybe he's come to terms that we are both adults." Luke laughed out loud, "I seriously wished he had. If he had, that wouldn't have happened." —---------------------- Luke pulled his F 250 truck in the mill parking lot, Bo right behind him in Daisy’s roadrunner, the place looked packed. Dixie was the focus of several women as she came in holding Luke’s hand. Balladeer: It sure looks like the green eyed monster has a hold of several of those girls, don’t it? Seeing the looks she was getting being with Luke, Dixie couldn't help smiling just a bit wider. Luke just grinned and acted as if he didn’t see the attention they were getting as they walked in and found a table. Luke and Dixie danced to a slow song, everyone might have been dressed in period clothes but they were dancing more modern. —------------------- Cooter was at the punch bowl getting Patty Lou a glass of punch. Bo and BL were taking a moonlit stroll, the evening was perfect, almost too perfect. Returning to the mill BL and Bo got plenty of looks themselves from girls who would have given their right arm for a date with Bo. Some of them were former classmates, who thought Bo and BL were just friends in school, because they were always with the others but tonight, they were on a real date was easy to see. —------------------------ Jesse had taken turns dancing with several of the widows and of course Miz Tisdale had her place in line. Balladeer: Now it was certain the apple didn't fall from the tree. Them boys got it honest from their Uncle Jesse. Daisy and the others were having fun watching the ladies fawn over him. Finally Jesse took a seat at the makeshift bar that had been set up for mostly the older men who might want a bit more than the sweet punch the ladies made. Luther came in and took a seat beside him. —-------------------- Dixie and Luke stayed on the dance floor for another slow song. Luke didn't realize that Luther had come in. He was relaxed and enjoying himself holding Dixie close to him. Dixie for her part was enjoying being held. Luther turned his back to the dance floor, he might have agreed to a truce with Luke but that didn’t mean he liked Luke holding his little girl anymore than before, it just meant he had to accept it. “Hey Jesse.” Luther said. “Howdy Luther.” Jesse replied. They were soon joined by Clyde, who noticed Luther was facing the bar. Instead of watching all the activity around him. “You ok brother?” Clyde asked. “I guess”.” Luther replied. “You guess?” Jesse said, picking up on Luther’s unconvincing answer. “I’m just trying to keep my word and not butt in on Dixie’s and Luke’s relationship.” Said Luther. “I thought you might have eased up, after our talk the other day. Dixie is a grown woman, makes her own money. She handles herself just fine everyday at tri-county jail.” Clyde said. “Clyde’s right, you have to let Dixie make her own choices, if you try to run her life, like she’s still a kid, you might just run her off”. Jesse said wisely. Luther finished his beer saying, ”I hear what ya’ll are saying.” —-------------------- At around 10 pm people began to leave and by 10:45 only the six Duke and Davenport youngsters remained, Cooter had taken Patty Lou home with a headache a while ago. “Looks like the party’s over, it’s still early, how about we head to the Boar’s Nest for a while?” Bo suggested and they all agreed. Dixie said, "That sounds good to me if I can just go grab a bag out of Daisy’s car." Luke watched as she set to gathering the yards and yards of material in her dress. "Where is it? I'm a bit quicker." With a look of gratitude, Dixie replied, "Back passenger side. Blue." Luke was headed to the car figuring exactly what was in the bag. The girls had all looked great in the older style of clothing but he was up for seeing Dixie in a lot less yardage. “Hey Luke, will you grab my bag too, it’s the red one in the backseat driver’s side?” BL asked before Luke got out the door. “Sure BL” Luke said, coming back a couple minutes later handing the girls their bags. “Thanks, we’ll be back in a few minutes,” Dixie said, going to the restroom with BL and Daisy. —--------------------- After hours of a dress with enough material to make three dresses Dixie was really glad to get out of it and into a pair of jeans, tank top with a shirt/jacket over it and her boots. "Lordy, that feels so much better." She said while hanging her dress on a hanger. BL pulled on her other boot, glad to be in her comfortable jeans and off the shoulder top, “Sure does, those shoes were killing my feet.” BL said, putting the shoes in her bag. “I’m glad I don’t have to dress like that for work,”Daisy said, buckling her high heel with an open toe. She was ready for her shift wearing her short denim shorts and a tank top. —-------------------------- While the girls were changing clothes Bo was curious about what Luke and Luther discussed in the Davenport kitchen, ”Luke what’d you say to Luther back at the house?” “Yeah” Cooter chimed in, “I figured ya’ll would have WW3”. Luke didn’t want to say so shrugged his shoulders saying “we came to an understanding”, “we called a truce”.”Who called a truce?” Dixie asked just hearing the last part as the girls came back from changing. "Just telling them about earlier." Luke said as he put his arm around Dixie. Cooter agreed that Dixie was an adult now and more than capable of making her own choices, but the familiarity of Luke’s touch did bother him. "Let's get moving." Luke said. They all headed out to the vehicle —------------------- A short time later, the group all skidded to a stop outside the Boar’s Nest. It looked more packed than the dance had been. Daisy hopped out of Cooter’s car heading inside to work, Boss Hogg had given her a few hours off to go to the dance but now she had to close up at 2am closing time and he’d docked her pay. Darcy had to leave the dance early but Uncle Jesse had said he’d drop Daisy off at the Boars Nest. Cooter had taken Patty Lou home early with a bad headache, so Cooter had given Daisy a ride instead of Uncle Jesse, since he was going to the Boars Nest with the others, after the dance. —------------------ “Be with you in just a minute everybody.” Daisy said, hurrying to get her order pad. Luke held Dixie’s hand as they walked in the dim lit bar. He gave his eyes a few seconds to adjust to the lighting before heading toward the back to maybe find a table. It may have been a bit dark but the glow of several sets of green eyes could be seen or felt by Dixie and Luke. Seeing the looks she was getting being with Luke, Dixie couldn't help smiling just a bit wider. Luke wasn't blind. He saw the looks and thought it was funny. He was in a good mood as he thought about some of the girls that were shooting daggers their way. If they wanted something to look at he'd give them something to look at. —----------------------- The group managed to find a table toward the back and took their seats just as a great slow song began to play. Luke didn't even ask Dixie to dance, he just took her hand and led her to the dance floor where he took Dixie in his arms, pulled her close and wrapped his arms around her tightly. Dixie responded by stepping even closer to Luke with her arms wrapped around him. Luke smelled Dixie's perfume as she got closer. Right then he knew he was done for as his tight jeans suddenly got a bit tighter. —-------------------------- Luther had left the party early. His intention was to go to the less crowded Boar’s Nest and drink coffee until he got a call or maybe, just maybe, Cooter would take the wrecker at midnight and then he could have a couple beers. He really wanted something much stronger and a lot of it about now. “Hey BL, want to play some pool?”, Bo asked. “Sure” BL said standing up. The two headed for the back room, Bo holding BL by the hand as they wove their way through the crowd. —------------------------- Cooter went over to Luther’s table and sat down when he saw both of them were sitting alone. Luther only spared his son a glance, he was watching Luke and Dixie he might have agreed to a truce with Luke but that didn’t mean he wouldn’t still watch him like a hawk. Luther asked Cooter after they had sat awhile, "Where's your girl?" "I took her home a bit ago." Cooter replied. "Well, since you are free. How about taking the wrecker tonight?" Luther asked. Unknowingly, Cooter played into Luther's hand as he shrugged, "May as well." —--------------------- While Bo and BL played pool BL thought about what Bo said on their stroll earlier, she was still worried about court though. Bo caught her eye, giving her his best grin that made all the girls swoon. “I told you don’t worry darlin’ me and Luke, Dixie, Daisy and Cooter ain’t gonna let bogus charges stick, we’ll find out what Boss’s scheme is before court.” “I can't help it, Bo,” BL said. —----------------- After taking Mis Tisdale home, Jesse Duke walked into the Boar’s Nest hoping for a cold beer before heading home. Besides, he rationalized, he was way too dressed up to go home this early. He took a seat with Luther, just as Cooter had taken the keys to the wrecker and headed back to the table where Luke and Dixie had just come back to. Luke motioned Daisy over. "Give us a round of beers, Darlin'." "Alright, Luke. Is that 3 or 5? Since BL is about to skunk Bo at the pool table?" "Better make it 5.," Luke laughed as his arm dangled over Dixie’s shoulder. —------------------------ “I win again, ready to call it quits, before I smear your record completely?” BL teased after beating Bo for the 4th time. “Just you wait, I’ll beat you and redeem myself, but let's take a break and have a beer,” Bo replied, heading back to the table. Daisy came back with beers for the table, just as BL and Bo sat down, “here you go, ya’ll enjoy.” Daisy said, sitting the last beer down. Cooter began nursing his beer as the others were pretty much drinking up. Bo noticed and said, "Drink up Cooter, I'll get the next round." Cooter shook his head ‘no’, "Can't." He said as he held up the familiar keys of the wrecker. Everyone knew Luther's strict 1 watered down beer limit if you were driving his trucks. —------------------------ The fact that Luther was in the bar had the same effect on Luke as if Daisy had dumped a dishpan of ice in his lap. He swore to himself as he was now able to spot Luther at a table up front with Uncle Jesse. Everyone was having a good time, talking and laughing. Luther was on his 3rd beer now after giving Cooter the wrecker keys. Noone was really paying attention when Ernie Ledbetter walked in until BL glanced to the right, leaning over she whispered to Bo “Don’t look now but trouble just walked in.” Balladeer: Now just because Ernie walked in isn't immediate trouble, but he and Luke have had a history of trouble dating back to their high school football playing days. Bo saw Ernie just inside the door checking out the crowd. "Luke,.... don't look now but, Ernie is here." —------------------ Luke looked from where he was watching Luther toward the door and saw that Ernie, who had always been a mountain, had not gotten any smaller over the years since he'd seen him last. Thinking that maybe, just maybe the fool over there had gotten some sense, Luke said, "Well, we’ll just leave him over there." Everybody kept right on having a good time, Luke relaxed after a bit even though Luther was there, he wasn’t butting in, even though Luke and Dixie danced a few more times. Cooter had switched to soda after he’d finished his beer. The jukebox started playing ‘Dixieland Delight’ by Alabama, one of BL’s favorite songs, Bo held out a hand saying “wanna dance”? BL took his hand and they were soon joined by Luke and Dixie. Cooter looked at his Dad to see what effect the song’s lyrics and Luke holding Dixie was having on Luther. Luke’s tight jeans were getting even tighter as the song and Dixie in his arms worked together. Next was Conway Twitty’s ‘I’d love to lay you down’. Luther gripped his beer mug tighter as Luke bent down and said something to Dixie. He then saw Dixie look up at Luke and smile widely. —------------------ Jesse had been watching the crowd but nothing he saw concerned him. He finished his beer and asked, "Luther, can I give you a ride home?" Jesse knew Cooter had taken over the wrecker hours ago. "Thanks Jesse, but I’m gonna have another." Luther said. Slurring just a might. Jesse had seen the man drink heavily but It was few and normally far between. He waved to Daisy and headed to his pickup and toward home. —----------------------- As Conway's song played Dixie had moved even closer to Luke who was only paying her attention. Luke had thoughts of sliding out of here just as soon as he could gracefully get Dixie off the dance floor. She was driving him up the wall and unlike her teenage self, she knew exactly what she was doing to him. With the song in full swing, Luke felt a hand tap his shoulder. He turned to see Erie standing beside him, smiling, "I'm cuttin' in." "No ya ain't." Luke said, trying to ignore the distraction. Ernie pushed Luke's buttons "Come on now Duke, you can't be taking up all the wench's time." —------------------------- Luke turned to Ernie speaking through gritted teeth “what did you call her”? “A wench” Earnie sneered. “That’s what I thought you said” Luke growled, punching Ernie in the jaw. Stumbling back from the unexpected punch, the mountain of a man came at Luke with a roar, hitting him so hard that Luke crashed into Luther’s table, knocking over his beer. Having had a few too many, Luther slugged Luke in the jaw sending him stumbling back a few steps. What started out a near perfect night was quickly going south. Luke managed to get to his feet before Ernie took another run at him. Luke saw him coming and punched him dead on in the jaw, sending him toward the bar. Luther figured now was as good a time as any to even the score with Luke for pawing his daughter. He let a roundhouse punch fly. Bo saw Luther's swing and called to Luke, "Luke watch out!" —------------------------- Luke turned in time to deflect Luther's punch and sent him flying across the bar. Bo saw Ernie get to his feet so he took a swing of his own. Cooter saw Luther about to plow drive Luke and stepped in trying to stop his father. Luther was already too far gone to think rationally or have complete control of his reflexes, he couldn’t stop his forward momentum, Cooter being the one on the receiving end of the plow drive meant for Luke. “ Ernie lookout” Ernie’s pal Floyd warned seeing Bo about to clock Ernie, he threw a punch of his own. Rosco, having been on patrol, stopped in to check on things, the Boars Nest was more crowded than usual. Opening the door, stepping inside he was nearly hit by a flying chair. “Jumping Jehosophat, what a mess”, Rosco mumbled. Pulling out his gun hollering “FREEZE” he fired a shot in the ceiling to get the combatants attention. —------------------------ Which only half worked. Bo, Cooter and Ernie's friend Floyd all stopped. Luke didn't have much choice since both Ernie and Luther were intent on fighting him. "Alright! I said quit it now!" Rosco demanded sending a chandelier falling to a nearby table and sending flying glass everywhere! Luke managed to get to his feet just as Luther took one last all out effort to make him pay by running full force at Luke. Erie saw a chance for a couple cheap shots and jumped back in the middle of the fight. Bo. Cooter and Ernie's friend Floyd jumped in to stop the fight. —---------------------- None of the girls had time to even process who was fighting who and why. After wrestling around for several minutes, Cooter finally got Luther pulled off Luke “Dad…Dad just simmer down.” Bo and Earnie’s friend Floyd weren’t having much success though. Rosco was trying to separate the two as well “Charlie, get Cletus on the CB and tell him to get over here, I need backup,” Rosco called over to the bar. Rosco looked at the group still tusseling about. At best he and Cletus could haul four and he was seeing at least six right now that he planned to give a ride to. For once Rosco was using his head as he spotted the younger Davenport, "Dixie get on the phone to Tri Counties and tell them I need a van." Even though Luke had been drinking and currently had his hands full with Luther and Ernie, he heard Rosco loud and clear. It was as if someone had poured ice down the back of his shirt. Seeing Dixie officially and at work was not on his bucket list. Cooter and Bo looked at each other then Luther, both were sure that had he drank just a little less, he’d not like what Rosco just told Dixie to do. Just because he was her kin, both knew Dixie would do her job. Cooter wasn't exactly thrilled with the idea of dealing with his ‘little’ sister professionally. —------------------------ Dixie went over to the phone making the call, then turned back to Rosco “the van will be here in 10 minutes.”, Dixie said. A minute later Cletus arrived, gun drawn. By this time Cooter had gained control of Luther, sort of anyway. Ernie's friend was moving him away from Luke who was trying to convince Bo he was done. By the time Rosco had froze everyone and Cletus arrived the van from Tri-Counties arrived. Cletus saw the place, "Sheriff, we can't transport them all together." Rosco had seen enough to figure who were the trouble makers in his mind. "Right, you put the Dukes in your car, the rest can go in the van." Luke managed to get his truck keys and wallet and laid it on the bar, passing it to Dixie who was still behind the bar from using the phone. Bo, like Luke fished the keys to Daisy’s car out of his pocket, laying them beside BL, on the bar where she retreated to keep from being clobbered by mistake, “you need these more than me.” Cooter followed suit, handing Daisy his car keys, “here Daisy take these, so nobody has to wait for you to close up or come back and get you.” —--------------------------- Rosco told the officers from Tri-Counties. "I just needed them taken to the Hazzard Jail tonight and didn't have enough room with the cruisers." Luke was sure as he and Bo were cuffed and put in the back of Cletus's patrol car, that he had not ever been more happy to be in a cruiser heading to the Hazzard jail. Rosco did a fine job of directing Cletus and Tri-Counties Correctional Officers to get his 6 arrestees heading into Hazzard, then outside the Courthouse he let the officers take Luther, Cooter, Ernie and friend to the downstairs cells, then brought Bo and Luke to the upstairs cell. —------------------------- Meanwhile, Dixie was just glad the officers didn't recognize her in real clothes, or if they did, they didn't let on. "Daisy before we head out, give us another beer that I only hope we can drink in peace." Dixie knew there was nothing to be done for the men tonight. “Here you go girls”, Daisy sat a beer in front of each of the Davenport girls, “Thanks Daisy, I’ll bring your car home in the morning. Hey Dix, if you take Luke’s truck home, we can get Cooter’s car, then I can get my car from your house,” BL said, having it all worked out in her head anyway. Daisy said, "Or, ya’ll could just come home with me tonight. There's two empty beds." BL thought for a minute “Daddy’s watching Sadie till I get home but I’m sure he won’t mind dog sittin’ overnight.” BL said, looking at Dixie for her answer, It actually made the most sense since she was sure that tomorrow was going to be eventful. "If you are sure Uncle Jesse won't mind with everything that will need done tomorrow." Daisy replied a bit selfishly, "It may be better to have ya’ll around." Dixie replied, sipping on her beer, "It sounds like a plan." —--------------------------- At the jail, Luke had walked the length of the small cell by now about twenty times trying to get somewhat calmer. It had been several years since he'd been on this side of the bars and he hadn't missed it at all. He raked his hand through his hair. Bo knew it sounded stupid, but asked. "What's wrong Luke?" Luke gave him a look of total disbelief, "For one, I sorta thought I'd be spending the night with someone prettier than you." He immediately regretted saying that out loud even to Bo. Bo looked at Luke like he had two heads, he couldn’t believe Luke was even thinking that considering the past. —---------------------- At the Boars Nest BL and Dixie had volunteered to help Daisy clean the mess up from the fight. “Daisy, can I use the phone? I need to call Daddy, see if he minds dog sitting overnight.” “Not at all, help yourself,” Daisy replied. BL picked up the receiver dialing, Clyde answered on the second ring “Hello”. “Hi Daddy it's me, do you mind watching Sadie overnight?” BL asked. “No, I don’t mind. Are you staying with Dixie again?” “Well yes and no, Dixie and me are both staying at the Duke farm with Daisy.” BL was glad her father hadn’t asked more questions, she didn’t want to discuss how the evening had ended. ^^^^^^^^^^^^

Friday morning had the Dukes and the Davenports up and moving early. With Luke and Dixie out of town working, Cooter was about to get some extra help at the garage, better known as Hazzard Central. With the Post Office and Courthouse in plain view, what better location to watch and listen from. Bo, BL, Cooter and even Daisy were all at the garage before most people in town started to stir. Sadie was curled up by the desk snoozing. By 9am the town was a hive of activity, with people going about their business. Bo wiped his hands as he straightened from under the car, he and Cooter were working on, “Think I’ll go over to the post office and get my PO mail, want me to get the garage mail too?” Bo said. “Yeah, that’d be great Bo, Mr. Hawthorne is coming to pick up his car”. —----------------------------- Bo jogged across the street, taking out his wallet as he went in the post office door. Miz Tisdale was covering BL. Dixie had thought it best, if she didn’t work today inlight of the mail fraud accusation. “Morning Bo” Miz Tisdale greeted ”How’s your Uncle Jesse?” “Morning ma’am, Uncle Jesse’s fine. Can I get the mail for PO box 100 and the garage”, Bo got a number then, waited for Miz Tisdale to call it showing his license when she did. Taking the mail he went back over to the garage. At the garage Bo laid the garage's mail on the register, then thumbed through his mail. He had 5 envelopes. He opened each one and found they all contained a crisp five dollar bill. “Anything interesting?” BL asked. Bo shook his head ‘no’ “just the expected $5 for a picture.” —------------------------ A little before noon, Luke had wrapped up the classes he had taught the new group of Smokejumpers. He filed the last of their certificates and closed the file cabinet. "I'll see ya Monday, Ryan." Ryan gave him a surprised look, "You're not leaving me with them? Are you??" "Afraid so. I told you that you'd regret that collar brass sometimes." Ryan nodded. Luke had set him back on the ground when his head was in the clouds about his recent promotion. "Well, have fun and drink one for me." Luke gave him a half smile, "I hope this weekend goes that smooth." Minutes later he had his truck in the wind heading back to Hazzard while hoping the others hadn't managed to get into too much trouble without him. He frowned at that thought and rethought it, ... no he didn't want them to get into trouble with him, he hoped they all managed to stay out of trouble. —----------------------------------- Just after Luke pulled in, Daisy pointed out the garage door toward the Courthouse. "Boss going in." The others looked to see the white clad little fat man making his way up the Courthouse steps. —-------------------------- Some time later, both Rosco and Cletus were seen going inside the Courthouse too. Then, shortly after Cletus went to the Post Office and returned to the Courthouse. Luke motioned to Bo to go with him out of the garage toward the Courthouse. Under Boss's window, they heard.... —------------------------------------ "Are you sure there wasn't any mail in that there box?" Boss asked. Cletus replied, "I'm sure Cousin Boss. Just like every day since I got that mailbox. No mail”. —--------------------------- Luke and Bo exchanged looks, a lightbulb going on, Boss Hogg definitely had some scheme going that had gotten BL arrested for mail fraud. Luke motioned for Bo to follow him back over to the garage. —--------------------------------- Sadie dropped the ball at BL’s feet, wagging her tail waiting for BL to throw it again but BL wasn’t paying attention, tuned in to what Luke was saying instead . “Bo have you gotten anything in the mail that was ‘off’? Luke asked. Bo thought a minute before nodding ‘yes’ ”I got a letter from Tennessee, wanting to know where their bill of sale was and they didn’t seem too pleased.” Luke thought for a minute. "Bo, did you keep those envelopes from those picture orders? I wonder if that was one of those hundred dollar bills you got." —---------------------------- Bo frowned, "You mean they weren't from no fan club?" Luke replied, "I don't know yet. BL could Bo have gotten any mail at his box that wasn't his?" Luke further explained his thinking so she didn't think she had done anything wrong, "I'm wondering how long his box was closed before he opened it?" "Hmmm" BL thought "I guess it's possible but I don't recall seeing nothing when I put the mail in. Maybe something could have stuck together and I didn't notice, Cletus wanted that box but it was already taken". "Cletus wanted that box? He asked for it specifically?" Luke asked. Bo asked, "Was that when I rented Box 100? "Yes to both questions" BL answered. She added, "When Bo asked for a big box I gave him the first open one being 100. Cletus came in as Bo was leaving and asked to rent box 100. I told him it was rented so he took box 101." Luke frowned, "Bo were those envelopes addressed to you?" Bo was getting a sinking feeling, "Yeah, well most of 'em. Some just had P.O. Box 100 on them.” —--------------------------- Just about then Luther Davenport, Cooter's father, backed a flatbed truck up to the garage door loaded with various boxes of parts and supplies for the garage. “A bit later the garage CB came to life requesting the wrecker to come to Hazzard pond. It seemed Rosco had run in the pond again. “Luke, you mind getting Rosco? I got some things here to take care of” Luther said. Luke looked at the others, shrugging his shoulders “Sure no problem, Luther” Luke replied. —--------------------------------- Dixie’s thunderbird turned in at the garage, just as Luke was pulling out with the wrecker Bo, BL, Daisy and Cooter, wasn’t sure they had heard and seen what just happened. —------------------------------ Chris broke the stunned silence that fell over the young folk “How come Luke knows so much about how to operate the wrecker? Chris asked. “He’s been doing it a long time,” Cooter said. "Y'all drove it before y'all got your license didn't you Cooter?" Dixie asked since she had not been around at that time. "We sure did." Cooter replied as he was helping unload the truck his father had brought in. Dixie picked up the notebook beside the register. Nothing had been logged down, "Where did Luke go?" Luther scolded at her question before thinking. Dixie gave her father a look. Raised the notebook a bit and said, "I was going to log the wrecker call for you. I used to do that a lot too." “He went to fish Rosco out of the pond," Daisy said. "Him being in there ain't my fault this time" Bo stated proudly, gaining chuckles from everybody but Chris, who didn't get why Bo would say this with pride. Chris thought that there was a lot of history here that he didn't know as he kept sweeping. Dixie wrote down the wrecker's destination. She wanted to know what the others found out but with Luther there wouldn't ask. "I think I'm just gonna head out." Dixie said as she started heading to her Thunderbird. BL asked, "Want some company?" Dixie replied, "Keep doing what y'all are doing. I might be back out in a bit." Dixie hoped it sounded as if she were heading home as she backed out of the garage lot. True enough she was heading in the general direction of the Davenport farm at least wise until she got to the turnoff for Hazzard Pond. BL looked over at Bo, her eyebrow cocked, he looked back no doubt remembering Dixie and Luke both being MIA the other night after they’d all met at the Boar’s Nest after work like usual. BL still hadn’t got a confession out of Dixie about her and Luke being back together but she’d bet the farm, Dixie hadn’t gone home. “I got to do something, be back shortly,” BL said, heading to her GTO. ”C’mon Sadie let's go for a ride”, BL said, Sadie sprung over the side of the car. A drive out to the Davenport farm might not confirm Dixie followed Luke but it’d confirm she didn’t go home. When Dixie got to the turnoff for Hazzard Pond, she took the turn. About a mile later, she grinned widely as she saw Cletus' patrol car with Cletus and a very wet Rosco P. Coltrane heading back to town. Easing up the road, taking in the sight before her, Dixie watched Luke unwinding the cables, pulling them down the hill toward the water and the patrol car about 6 feet out in the pond. The bank was steep and alone, Luke would have had to have made several trips down the hill. Dixie cut her engine and came to a stop without Luke noticing. She walked over to the wrecker and called down to Luke, "Need any help?" Luke laughed as he saw Dixie standing beside the wrecker ready to help him, much like she had been at age 15, though she didn't look like 15 now, hell she hadn't looked like 15 then he thought. "You wouldn't want to wade out there and hook that thing up would you?" Dixie grinned widely, "Now I wouldn't be opposed to a swim, but wading out there to hook up wasn't what I had in mind." Luke had figured the last part of her statement even before he asked, "Just keep giving me slack then." There wasn't any way around it. He was going to get wet, so out to the car he trudged through the water and sandy mud that made Hazzard Ponds bottom. —--------------------- BL eased on her brakes, slowing the car as she passed the Davenport farm. As expected no Thunderbird was in sight. Not wanting Dixie to accuse her of being nosey and spying, even though she was doing exactly that, BL turned back the way she'd come, instead of taking the short way by Hazzard pond. Getting the patrol car out of the pond, up the bank and ready to tow became the first priority. Once that was done, Luke sloshed back to the wreckers control panel wet from his thighs down. Dixie teased, "How's the water?" Luke replied...."Wet", giving Dixie a wicked grin, Luke tossed her over his shoulder in a fireman's carry, toting her down the hill, stopping at the water's edge, he proceeded to pull Dixie off his shoulder and pretend like he was going to throw her in the water "1...2...3..." Luke counted. Dixie wasn't expecting to be picked up and carried to the pond! She held on tightly, "You would..." Balladeer: Yes he would and did! Luke had done exactly what Dixie had expected him to do by tossing her right into the pond. He promptly took off the only dry piece of clothing he had on, dropping his shirt to the ground as he kicked off his soaking wet boots and socks, then headed into the pond. Dixie moved to the edge of the pond and discarded her wet tennis shoes and socks, "You're gonna pay for that." Dixie said playfully. Luke replied, "I'm scared to death." Dixie had moved in a bit closer as she managed to cut Luke's feet out from under him, sending him totally under the waist high water for a split second. Dixie was trying to hide the mile wide grin as Luke stood back up and moved in closer to her. Luke was also smiling at Dixie's antics, right up until he reached out, pulled her close to him and gave her a long hungry kiss…. —---------------------- Back at the garage, a tan Rolls Royce pulled up to the garage pumps, Cooter got out of the big wrecker just as Chris started to pump gas, walking over to check the car out, it wasn’t everyday a Rolls stopped at the garage. “Howdy ma’am” Cooter greeted. Cooter said as he gave the Rolls a good looking over, "We sure don't get many of these babies through here." He was practically drooling. “Hello, could you tell me where I might find JD Hogg we have some business to discuss”, the well-to-do redhead woman asked handing Cooter a business card proclaiming ‘Bobbie Jo Jefferson, realtor Acme realty,Atlanta GA.’ “You should find him over at the courthouse” —--------------------------- Chris finished pumping the gas and took the money inside asking, "What is with Cooter?" “Cooter’s in love” BL said,grinning. “In love, he just met the lady 5 seconds ago” Chris statd. Chuckling, BL shook her head ‘no’, “not the woman, her car.” —---------------------- Dixie broke the kiss”you should get back to the garage, before Dad sends out a posse or comes looking for you hisself”. Luke nearly groaned, he didn’t relish either possibility happening but he wasn’t ready to let Dixie go and go back to town either. “I’m goIng to run home and change into dry clothes, then I’ll come to the garage,” Dixie said. “Ok” Luke said, pulling Dixie to him for another kiss. Letting Dixie go, both putting their socks and shoes back on, went their separate ways, Luke buttoning his shirt as he walked up the hill to the wrecker. Dixie was still pretty wet to get into her car with her wet clothes on. "Luke, is there anything to cover my seat in there that they won't miss til I can get it back on the truck?" Luke replied as he opened a side compartment, "There's a couple of tarps back here." He covered the wrecker seat, then the driver's seat of the Thunderbird. "So, do you think we can get away with going to the dance together?" Luke asked. Dixie replied, "I was really thinking that you might not ask." Luke brushed her wet hair back, "Well, I hadn't asked anyone else either." Dixie shook her head, "It's not the same. I kind of miss the evil looks I used to get walking into the Boars Nest with you." Luke said, stepping in closer, "We've been to the Boars Nest about every evening since you came back." "Again, not the same thing Luke."Dixie replied as she looked up at Luke. Luke eventually broke away from her. "Dix if you don't head out now...." The remainder of his thoughts were left unsaid. "I already really need another dip in the pond." Luke added. Dixie managed to give Luke a very innocent look with just a slight mischievous grin, "Sorry. I'm going." Luke watched her walk back to her car and waited for her to pull out. He let out a groan, gave the cool water of the pond another wishful look, then headed back to the garage. —------------------------ Dixie made it to the Davenport farm, tucked the tarp in her trunk then hurried inside, upstairs she grabbed another pair of jeans, underwear, socks and shoes. She hurriedly peeled off all her wet clothes, dropping them all in a heap on the floor, then ran a dry towel over herself and through her hair, quickly dressed, then headed back to town. With the windows down and moonroof open she hoped her hair was dry by the time she got back out of the car at the garage. —--------------------- Luke backed the wrecker up to the garage bay, getting out and going to the controls, letting the patrol car down and unhooking it “How’d you get so wet Luke?” Cooter asked. “I had to fish Rosco’s car out of the pond,” Luke replied. —-------------------- Dixie’s thunderbird came whizzing into the lot, BL raised her eyebrows when Dixie got out wearing different clothes than when she’d gone home, her hair was wet too. “What’d you change clothes for Dix” “Took a shower when I got home, the jail was HOT today” Dixie replied without giving it much thought. BL thought to herself something was hot besides the jail. —----------------------------- "A shower doesn't seem like a bad idea about now." Luke said as he came back in the garage after unhooking the patrol car and then moving the wrecker back outside. "Say, Cooter, does that old shower in back still work?" Cooter replied, "As far as I know. But it hasn't been used in ages." Luke said. "Well I think I'll give it a shot." He headed out the front of the station, walking away from the shower in question. The others watched him walk outside, then looked at each other. Noone had any idea what he was up to. Luke walked to his truck, grabbed a small duffle bag, then headed toward the shower. A couple minutes later the old pipes of the garage complained as water ran through them once again. In no time flat Luke returned. In no time flat, Luke returned freshly showered, shaved and dressed in dry clothes. He even had on different dry boots. Mainly what Dixie noticed was that he also smelled wonderful. Bo and Cooter nodded to each other in approval. Bo asked, "Are you prepared for every situation?" "I try to be, but I wasn't expecting to need to change here. I keep a bag in the truck in case I get toned out or wet." Luke said. —------------------------- Just as Luke was heading back to the garage from putting his duffle back in his truck, Clyde pulled into the lot. "Hey Daddy, what are you doing here"? BL asked. "I came to see if your Uncle wanted to join me at the Boar's Nest for a beer." Luther had joined the group "I don't think I better Clyde, still too much to do here, thanks anyway" Luther replied. "Go ahead Dad, we got things covered here." Cooter said. —------------------- "Thanks son," Luther said. The Davenport brothers got in their trucks and headed out. Once the older men had left Dixie asked "did we miss anything while we were gone?" BL told them about the Rolls royce. "It was a realtor looking for Boss, said they had business to discuss," Cooter added.“ Once everyone was caught up on most of the day's happenings, Cooter said, "So they have all left over there for the day. Are ya'll ready for a cold one?" Bo was the first to accept. "Sure sounds good to me." He said, wiping his hands on a shop rag. Luke replied, "I could do that. Ladies?" "If I'm gonna have anything ready to wear tomorrow night. I need to get sewing." Dixie stated. “Come on Dix, just one beer won’t hurt, I got sewing to do too,” BL gave Dixie her best puppy dog eyes. “Alright, just one beer,” Dixie agreed. Soon the garage was locked up tight and the group of young folk were on their way for a much needed beer. —------------------------------ The Dukes and Davenports pulled into the Boars Nest five wide, parking by Daisy's Roadrunner. They walked into the bar in a group and were glad to see it had not begun to fill up yet. There was Luther, Clyde and a few other older men there. Being that it was payday weekend, the place was bound to fill up soon. Luke motioned for Daisy to bring them all a beer. When Daisy brought the beers over, Cooter asked, "So where is everyone? We figured getting a table would be hard." "They'll be along. Maybe they went to clean up first."Daisy replied. Before Bo could reply that most of those guys never cleaned up, a very fancy old lady walked in and stopped at the bar. After speaking to Charlie the bartender, she made a beeline for the entrance of Boss Hoggs office. She didn't bother knocking as she let herself into the office and closed the door with a loud thump. Uncle Jesse came in just after the woman went into Boss Hogg’s office, speaking to a few of the older farmers. Then spotting Luther and Clyde, he went over saying “Howdy Luther, howdy Clyde, haven’t seen you in a coon’s age. “Cabinet shop’s been busy Jesse” Clyde said. —-------------------------- In Boss Hogg’s office, things were a little unnerving, Boss Hogg’s fancy lady visitor was Camilla Raines, the ex-wife of a mobster down in Savannah. “Mind telling me why I got these, instead of a deed of ownership certificate on a spacious vacation home lot, like the ad in the paper said” Camilla slapped a stack of pictures of Bo with General Lee on Boss Hogg’s desk. “I..I…have no idea” Boss stammered, confused. Camilla raised her voice a bit, "I am getting my Ex-husband's money fair and square which wasn't an easy thing. I'm sure he wouldn't want me ripped off. I made a down payment on a vacation home and land and that's what I'm going to get, right Tubby?" Boss Hogg stammered, "Right." "Good." Camilla tossed a card with her address on it. "I'll be waiting, but I won't wait long for my certificate." With that she was gone leaving Boss Hogg a chance to see the stack of pictures of Bo Duke and General Lee. Boss nearly turned 3 shades of purple. Boss Hogg grumbled. —------------------ The Boar’s Nest, not being too busy yet with people spending their paychecks, made it possible for everyone sitting close to Boss’s office to hear what Camilla had said, when she raised her voice. “So that’s what he’s upto” Luke said to noone in particular at the table. —------------------------ Boss Hogg got on the CB radio, "Rosco! Rosco! you best be walking through my office door pronto!" Rosco had been out at speed trap number 2 all day and hadn't had so much as a nibble. "I'll be there in two shakes of a little lamb's tail.” —-------------------------- Five minutes later Rosco came hurrying through the outside door to Boss Hogg’s office ”what’s up Boss? I got here as fast as I could” Rosco said. Boss took a puff on his cigar “Rosco I want you to watch them Duke and Davenport kids” Boss said. “All of ‘em?” Rosco asked. “All of ‘em!” Boss replied. Rosco counted on his fingers then said “but Boss there’s 6 of ‘em”. "Well, Rosco, you can count. I'd bet your salary that they are all 6 right on the other side of that there wall. They are up to no good, especially that Bo Duke." Boss declared. Rosco opened the door, quickly counted and closed the door. "How did you know that they were all here Boss?" Rosco asked. —------------------------ A slow song began to play on the jukebox, forgetting that Luther was at the Boars Nest too, Luke stood, holding his hand out to Dixie “want to dance?” “Would love to,” Dixie said, taking Luke by the hand, moving out onto the dance floor. —------------------ Jesse had taken a seat with Clyde and Luther. He and Clyde were studying a chess board between them. Luther was watching the game as the three carried on a normal conversation about crops, cabinets, garages and such. Jesse said, "Luke said, you asked him to give one of the kids a ride in the wrecker the other day. How did that go?" "Danged fool kid didn't even know what a clutch was when he was asked to move the wrecker." —--------------------- Clyde spoke up, "Yeah, I heard that Dixie showed him up." "That's not funny Clyde." Luther warned. Clyde laughed a little, "It is where I sit. Why don't you want the girl to learn your trucks Luther? She works at Tri-County, I think she can handle herself." "Her mother would have a fit if I let her run around in those trucks." Luther said. Clyde replied, "You and Cooter can't do it all, for forever." "I know that Clyde, that's why I wanted a trainable kid to teach. Hell, I've even kicked the idea around about maybe talking to Luke. I swear I can't get past the fact that in some situations he handled that wrecker better than me or Cooter." Luther stated truthfully, then he glanced up from his beer and saw his baby girl wrapped tightly in the same Luke Duke's arms. "Then, I see something like that and it makes my blood boil." Clyde and Jesse turned to see what Luther was seeing. “I see your point brother, would probably feel the same way if it was my little girl” Clyde said. “But don’t you think it’s time to let that part of the past go? Dixie has apparently. You said so yourself, that Luke handled the wrecker better than you or Cooter at times. I think you should talk to Luke, in my opinion,” Clyde counseled his older brother. —--------------------- When Luke and Dixie came back to the table, BL looked at her watch “Dix if we don’t want to be sewing all night we better go.” BL said. The group said their goodbyes and the Davenport girls headed out."I’m gonna take Sadie home and get my stuff, I’ll come on over then”, BL said. “Ok, see you in a bit”, Dixie replied. Finishing their beers the guys headed out a few minutes later. —---------------------------- “Huh?...Oh..yeah, I’m on it Boss”, Rosco said, opening the office door leading out into the Boars Nest. Closing it again Rosco said, “they ain’t out there nomore Boss.” Boss Hogg grumbled, "Not there? What do you mean not there?" Rosco explained, "Gone. Disappeared,Blip. The only one still here is Daisy." Boss Hogg exclaimed, "Then you find Bo Duke and follow him!" Rosco headed out the door quickly. —-------------------------- At the Davenport farm, BL and was just arriving. Dixie had insisted BL get her stuff and the two were going to have a sewing marathon that night until they were done. After carrying in her stuff, BL declared, "First things first. Cousin! I have got to go pee. That beer went right through me tonight." BL said, heading for the bathroom. Dixie teased, "Well, you know where it is, just take the time off from sewing your dress." BL saw the clothes Dixie had been wearing when she stopped at the garage right after work, on her bedroom floor in a heap on her way to the bathroom. “Since when did you start leaving clothes on your floor,instead of putting them in the hamper?"BL asked, nudging them with her bare foot. "How'd these get soaking wet?" —--------------------- Dixie cursed to herself but replied innocently, "I figured I could save time by showering in my clothes. Wash me and them at the same time." BL couldn’t help it, she giggled at Dixie's reply "Funny, now how about the truth this time. You know I won't tell anybody anything, I’ve never told on you before,we used to tell each other everything" BL said. Dixie considered BL's plea. It wasn't like she was 15 anymore. "Alright, but you have to contain yourself." Dixie stressed. BL tried to contain her excitement but was about to burst. "I rode by the pond earlier to see if Luke needed a hand getting Rosco out of the pond." BL added, "Rosco is gone when you get there right?" "Right. I helped with the wrecker controls. We got the car loaded and then one thing led to another. Then Luke tossed me in the pond." "So ya'll went skinny dippin'?" BL agged Dixie on. "No, we were both fully clothed for the most part." Dixie said, remembering well the site of Luke without his shirt. "Most part?" BL pushed her luck. Dixie shrugged, "Luke did take his shirt off and well, after we were wet we did ditch our socks, boots and my shoes." “My lips are sealed” BL made a zipping motion over her lips. “Does this mean you and Luke are unofficially together?“ Dixie nodded ‘yes’ “sorta” “If Luther gets wind of this he’ll blow a gasket.” Rosco wasn’t seeing much of interest, out at the Duke farm just Bo sitting at the kitchen table,putting a picture of himself with General Lee, in envelopes. Luke had his boots drying on the porch so he had gotten out a 2nd pair that he was busy polishing. He looked up to see Bo signing more pictures. "Are you still messing with those pictures?" Before Bo could reply. "Let me see one of those." Luke reached for an envelope that Bo had just laid down. It was addressed to Bo Duke P.O Bo.x 100 Hazzard.. Yes, that was Bo. "Are all these addressed the same way?" Bo replied, "Mostly, some just put the P.O. Box address on them." —------------------------ “Luke, come out to the barn, I want to talk to you,” Uncle Jesse said,heading to the kitchen, getting his red cap off the hook by the back door. “Yes sir” Luke said, putting on his boots, following Jesse to the barn. Luke had no idea why he was being called to the barn for a serious Uncle Jesse talk but he would obediently go. Inside the barn Luke leaned against a barn pole with one of his boots propped up on the pole. Jesse Duke was a man of few words and mostly stayed out of his boys business where women were involved, but there was a lot different this time. "So I hear you've been driving the wrecker again." Jesse began and then let the conversation go to Luke to see what he would say. "Yes, Sir. I've done a couple runs lately." Luke replied. "Why?" Jesse asked. Luke shrugged, "Luther asked me to show the kid the wrecker once, then there was a call today and I guess he didn't want to get wet like I did." Jesse studied that answer, "But, why now?" Jesse asked. Luke replied, "Beats me. Maybe it's because I haven't been around much until lately." Jesse nodded, "Or maybe he needs the help. He and Cooter can't do it all for forever." "That's why I drove in high school. I never would have stopped driving. That was his choice." Luke said. "Luther has been thinking about asking you to drive for him again, especially after hiring that kid who didn't work out so good. Said the kid didn't even know what a clutch was." Jesse said. Luke chuckled a bit "no he didn't, Dixie showed him up good." Luke said. Jesse jumped all over the opportunity to get to the part of the conversation he was hoping the conversation turned to, "Well, now that is another thing I hoped to talk to you about. Dixie." Luke nearly kicked himself right straight in the rear end for opening this can of worms. He shifted from one foot to the other. "What about Dixie?" Jesse asked, "How many gals have you been out with, danced with or even bought a beer for in the last 4 months?" Luke hadn't really thought about it. "I don't know. Why?" Jesse said, "Well, there was Sarah Jane the first night you was back in town. Then the next day there was Becky Mae, then Dixie walked in and I haven't even heard you telling Bo or Cooter none of your stories about the girls in Hot-lanta." Luke might not have thought about it before but really couldn't deny what Jesse had said. Luke replied, "Ok." "Now, son, you know I try to stay out of such things but do you see starting things up again with Luther's daughter when he is just coming around to consider letting you drive again is such a good idea." Luke was just a might rubbed the wrong way with his Uncle's questions. "First off, ..." Luke stopped. Walked off, took in a long deep breath, let it out and started over, "Uncle Jesse since I've been back, I've bought Dixie and everyone at the table a dozen beers. I've danced with her a handful of times. We have talked once without a cousin ten feet away, once and half the County made a big deal about it. Today I bought her a beer and everyone else at the table. A good song came on, we danced. I ran a wrecker call for Luther. She pulled in to see if I needed help. Her running the controls sure beat 15 trips up a wet slick hill. We both got the car out and hooked up. By that time I was wet to my knees. She said something cute and I threw her in the pond. That sums up our relationship." He made quotes around his last word. "As for the wrecker, I like to drive it. Really get a kick out of driving it better than Luther, like in the snow but I don't have to drive it. But, have you had this talk with Bo? It seems from where I sit that he and BL have been playing a bit of tiddly winks themselves." —---------------------- Uncle Jesse took in what Luke said, "You threw Dixie in the pond? Son, I don't know how you do it! You threw that gal in the pond and she's still speaking to you?" Jesse tried hard to hide his grin. Luke gave his Uncle a full grin when he replied, "She's going to the dance with me tomorrow night." "Well that maybe, but I'd still think twice about rubbing Luther the wrong way over her." Jesse said. "I hear you. Believe me I do. I've tried to be friends, friendly. I've tried to tell myself it's a bad idea. I've tried to lay low. Uncle Jesse, did you ever have a girl get at you that way?" Luke asked. Jesse replied, " Yep, .... once, ... Only once. I married her." Luke studied his words as he watched Jesse walk away. "Hey, I asked once!" —----------------------- At the Davenport farm, the sewing marathon was going slow “Dang it!, I did it again, Dixie fussed. “Did what? BL asked. “Broke a needle, it’s the third one in 2 hours.” Dixie said. She didn’t like to sew much anyway but hated to have a deadline. BL didn’t mind sewing but hated to feel rushed by a deadline. All was quiet and going as well as could be expected for the Davenport girls,when a ruckus in the chicken house startled them. “What in the world? BL declared looking at the seam/mess she’d just sewn. “I don’t know,” Dixie said, looking out the window but not in time to see Cleatus, who Rosco had sent to watch the 3 Davenport cousins, one of his rare moments of true smarts. “Must have just been a varmint, that’s moved on now” Dixie shrugged. The peace returned until about 45 minutes later, when the dog began barking, sighing Dixie put down her sewing, going to the window “hush up Bandit!” No sooner than Dixie had sat back down and started sewing. Bandit started barking again, Dixie rose again to tell Bandit to hush. Seeing something or someone in the light from the full moon, scurrying across the yard, sent a shiver up Dixie’s spine. “BL get Cooter and Dad, there’s someone out there.” BL put down her own sewing, heading to alert the 2 men, a knot of fear in the pit of her stomach. Waking her cousin and uncle,telling them what Dixie had seen, she then went back to Dixie “I told ‘em, they’re going to check it out.“ BL said —--------------------- Cooter and Luther crept out the back door, Luther with shotgun in hand saw the dark figure Dixie had seen in the moonlight, pointing it out to Cooter, raising the shotgun in the air, Luther fired both barrels ‘BOOM’. “Ahh, don’t shoot” Cletus called through the dark. “Cletus!” Cooter and Luther said at the same time. Cletus thought real fast, "Yeah it's me! Cletus!!" He knew that the Davenports were just a might crazy and seeing two of them with shotguns was not a comforting feeling. Luther pointed the barrel of the shotgun downward after reloading, he said, "What in tarnation are you doing creeping around MY property at this hour. You scared the girls, the dog and all the barnyard critters, not to mention nearly getting a first class ticket to the pearly gates". Cletus knew he was in deep with Boss Hogg but was right worried about his hide, "Rosco made me come out here.” “Why? We ain’t done nothing” Cooter said. “Alls I know is Rosco said that Boss said for him to watch Bo, Luke, Daisy and you, Dixie and BL.” Cletus answered. Luther frowned into the darkness “something sounds fishy to me” Luther grumbled. Cooter fussed, " The only thing fishy here was the cat's dinner.WE, He pointed to his father, "were in bed and them girls have themselves wrapped up in about a half a dozen yards of material up there, so you can go back and report that we are just fine out here." Cletus was about to say he'd been told to stay there all night, but another look at the Davenport men changed his mind. Luther thundered the butt of his shotgun into the ground and growled, "Git!" That was enough to put Cletus into 'git' mood as he began making his way back to his patrol car. ^^^^^^^^^^^

Thanks Roger, there i more to come I just didn't get a chance to post yet.

The next morning a few minutes after unlocking the post office and turning the sign from closed to open Cletus appeared, automatically without being told, he took a number and, retrieved his wallet from his pocket to show his license, Bo only a few minutes behind from the other days, came in taking a number and readying his own license. —----------------- Thursday had been quiet, BL parked her GTO in the lot behind the post office after delivering the mail, same as she had all week,"c’mon Sadie “. “You're under arrest for mail fraud, naughty, naughty BL” Rosco said, removing his cuffs from his belt. “Mail fraud! Rosco, have you gone squirrely? I ain’t nor would I be involved in mail fraud” BL said “Tiddly tuddly, this says otherwise,“ Rosco fanned out 5, $100 bills. Giving up on arguing, BL went with him over to the courthouse then saying,”I want my phone call”. Who to call was the problem, she didn’t want to get her daddy involved, so ruled out calling home or the garage. “Mabel, can you get me Tri-Counties Jail please?” BL held her breath, as she waited hoping Dixie answered instead of one of her coworkers… "Tri-Counties Jail, Officer Davenenport." Dixie said answering the phone automatically with the standard greeting. "Dixie, I need you to pick me up after work, Rosco arrested me for mail fraud, ME can you believe it?" "What? What in the world? Has he lost his mind?.... Nevermind, answering that." Dixie replied. "Why don't you call Cooter? He's across the road." "I was afraid Luther would answer or at least overhear and he'd tell Daddy." BL blew out a breath. "Dang it! Sadie's still at the post office, can you get hold of Cooter to get her please? This is my one call." Rosco pointed to his watch, telling BL her time was just about up. —------------------- When Dixie got off the phone with BL, she was glad that no one else was currently around. She made a call and found out Judge Druten was on duty for Hazzard County. She placed a call to his office and found out he would be in Hazzard later that afternoon. After taking care of a few things, Dixie was changed and on her way to pick up Sadie then head over to the Courthouse. Before entering the town of Hazzard, she passed General Lee... —----------------------------- After hanging up with Dixie, Rosco took BL downstairs to the first cell. Bo wondered what Dixie was headed toward Hazzard so early for, he picked up the CB mic. "Lost Sheep 2 to Little Shotgun, you sick or somethin?" Dixie was already pulling over into a wide spot, "Turn around a minute." Bo turned General Lee on a dime and pulled in behind Dixie, "What's up?" "We got Trouble." Dixie stressed the last word. "BL's in jail." That wasn't a phrase Bo thought he'd ever hear in broad daylight, "What? BL's where?!?" Dixie explained what she knew and they both headed to the Post Office for Sadie. ‘ —-------------- When they arrived at the Post Office they found Sadie laying on her blanket giving Boss Hogg a look, he was muttering about incompetent Sheriffs and dipstick deputies…. Both heard the very distinct sound of General Lee pull up and stop out front of the Post Office. Sadie jumped up and began wagging her tail. Boss Hogg mumbled under his breath about not having the time to deal with any no account Dukes. Bo and Dixie found the Post Office locked and the closed sign out. Dixie knocked on the door and knocked harder when she saw Boss Hogg inside, "I need to get Sadie." For a moment he had forgotten about the Davenport girl’s dog. "Alright, alright, this ain't no place for a flea bag." Boss unlocked the door and opened just wide enough for Sadie to make her escape. —------------------------ Over at the courthouse, Judge Druten looked BL in the eye, clearing his throat saying “BL Davenport, you are being charged with mail fraud. Bond is set at $2000 If found guilty of this crime you could be sentenced upto a year in prison. Do you understand this charge and the penalty?” BL felt her knees weaken at the mention of prison, ”yes your honor”, BL answered weakly. At the mention of prison and seeing how BL answered, Bo started to protest her innocence. He had no sooner opened his mouth when Dixie gave him a sharp elbow to his ribs. He caught Dixie's slight shake of her head, 'no', he wisely hushed. Dixie asked politely, "Is that cash, property, or bondsman?" Judge Druten studied the young woman and felt he should know her but he could not place her. "Yes, yes it is Miss." "If I can call Danny, I have the $215.00 right here," Dixie said. Judge Druten motioned her to the phone. Dixie had the call placed and said, "Danny this is Dixie from Tri Counties. I could personally use you over here at Hazzard Courthouse to go a bond for my cousin." Now Judge Druten knew how he knew her, she worked at Tri-Counties Jail. BL looked at Bo and Dixie desperately ”I don’t know what’s going on but I ain’t done nothin”. ”Of course you ain’t darlin’ we're gonna get to the bottom of this. Ain’t we Dixie?” Dixie had a determined look in her eyes ”We sure will, you just wait whoever is framing you will get theirs.” Balladeer: With BL's bond paid, the Davenport girls and Bo headed to the Boar's Nest. —----------------- Luke pulled into the Boars Nest after his rather long drive from work. As he got out of the truck, Bo, BL, and Dixie all pulled in together from the direction of town. "What's up?" Luke asked. Dixie said, "You do mean other than me having to bond BL out of jail. Right?" "What?" Luke asked. "We'll tell you inside." Dixie replied. —---------------------- The group went inside, making their way to their usual table in the back. Cooter came in right behind them, Daisy came over to take their orders but before she could speak, Luke said “Dixie, why did you have to bond BL out of jail?” Cooter and Daisy looked at Luke, like he had 2 heads “what?!” They asked in unison. Daisy sat down in the empty chair, she had to hear this for herself. Dixie told them all the story as she knew it. “I don’t know what but Boss Hogg is upto something. He was in the post office when I got back from delivering the mail.” BL added the part of the story Dixie and Bo didn’t know. "That's funny," Dixie said, "He was there when Bo and I stopped to pick up Sadie." Luke frowned, "Well, whatever he's trying to set up, he's had all the time in the world to invent any evidence he needs." Luke's comment wasn't at all popular with the group and was met by each protesting that they had to do something. Luke tried to settle the others down, "Now exactly what do we know? Did Rosco give you any idea how you are supposed to be committing mail fraud?" “Not the slightest but he was acting odd the other day but that ain’t nothing new for Rosco” BL shrugged her shoulders. —----------------------------- “How was he acting exactly?” Luke asked. “He had some letters or something that he was real anxious to mail. I told him the mail truck would be there any minute to make the morning mail pick up, that he’d have to wait until the afternoon but he kept hanging around.” Luke took a long drink of his beer as he thought, "Has anyone in town sent or received anything strange or out of the ordinary?" He asked. "I've only worked a few days, but the only thing I've thought was weird was that Cletus rented a large box but hasn't gotten any mail in it. I mean Bo rented a large box but he's at least got some mail in it. Then, there was that $100.00 bill that fell out of his mail the other day." BL explained. “That could be something, Have you seen any more money?” Luke asked. BL shook her head ‘no’, “I just put the mail in the box that the mail is addressed to, don’t pay attention to whose name’s on it,” BL said. Looking at Bo, deciding her innocence being proven was more important than rules, “Was there more than once you got $100 Bo?” BL asked. “Yeah a few actually”, Bo answered. “I figured that those $100 were all fan clubs, a fan club wanting a picture for every member,” Bo continued. "Bo. How many fan clubs want your picture?" Luke asked. He hoped it wasn't many. Something just wasn't setting right about it with Luke. "I don't know 4 or 5 maybe," Bo replied. BL looked at Luke, her expression saying 'what'?. Luke rubbed the back of his neck tiredly, "Something isn't right here. It's just not adding up." Luke looked to Bo in disbelief, "You really have over $500.00 for pictures of you and General Lee, ... and you don't think that's odd?" Bo was a bit hurt, "Now, Luke you are just mad that they want my picture or are you upset that you are missing out on some extra cash." "Pictures that you are looking at fifty cents on a pop. No, you have fun with that." Luke declared. "But, I'm not, see when they order in bulk I save envelopes and some postage too." Bo argued. —--------------------------- Balladeer: It was times like these that made Luke wonder why he'd come back to Hazzard instead of sharing a place with his team much closer to base camp. Dixie got up and headed for the jukebox. Luke zeroed in, forgetting all about pictures and money. Balladeer: That’s why he came back, folks. ^^^^^^^^^^^

The next morning, BL was sorting the morning mail delivery, noticing Bo had quite a stack building, she wondered again why he was suddenly getting so much mail. Bumping the growing stack on the table, a few of the envelopes fell to the floor, bending down to retrieve them, a $100 bill floated to the floor, "Now reckon why someone's sending Bo $100?" BL said to herself. —-------------------- At the Duke farm things were pretty much starting out as normal, well the way normal used to be before Luke became a Smokejumper. He was drinking coffee at the table when Bo came into the kitchen dreading doing all the chores this morning himself. Bo took note that Luke wasn't in his normal hurry and rushing to get out the door as Bo got his own coffee. Several minutes later, Luke asked, "Are you going to sit there all day or are you ready to get at it?" Bo frowned, "I'm going, I'm going. Why are you rushing me?" "Well, if I don't rush you, I'll have all the chores done by the time you finish your coffee." Luke said. Bo's head shot up quickly, "You're not working today?" Luke grinned at Bo's sudden revelation, "No, not today, but I'll make up for it when this class gets further along and we jump all day on a Saturday. —----------------- Around 10 Jesse sent Bo and Luke into town for some fence posts, before heading home they stopped by the post office, so Bo could check his PO box, "Mornin BL, me and Luke were in town getting fence posts for Uncle Jesse, thought we'd get the farm's mail too and I want to check my P.O. box," Bo said. "Ain't nobody getting or checking nothing until they take a number." BL replied, just as Cletus came in. Luke took a number and handed it to Bo before Cletus could get there, and mumbled "For Pete’s sake." Bo promptly handed BL his number while giving Luke an annoyed look. He also reached for his wallet. "Here ya go Darlin". BL peered at Bo's license then said, "I shouldn't ask, being a postal worker but I'm asking as a friend, what are you getting all the mail for suddenly?" "I'm sending an autographed picture of me with General Lee, for a small 5 dollar fee. You want one? It won't cost you a cent, cause you're so pretty," Bo replied grinning. "I appreciate that Bo, but I'm gonna have to pass. Somebody sure wants one, a bunch is more like it, must be for everybody in a fan club, cause a $100 bill fell out of an envelope this morning when I sorted the mail delivery." —------------------------- Luke whistled low, he hadn't thought Bo would get many takers at $5, he sure never thought someone would send $100. "Really a $100 worth of pictures of little ole me. What do you have to say now Lucas?" Bo rubbed it in to Luke who had wanted no part in his scheme. "There's fools born every day." Luke said. Cletus on the other hand chimed in, "That's great Bo! Wow! A hundred dollars for a five dollar picture.....they will get at least ten, ... Maybe even fifteen pictures for that." Luke suddenly wished that he had worked today with logic like that his head was beginning to hurt. —-------------------------- That evening after dinner, Bo sat at the table autographing pictures and putting them in envelopes. He still couldn't believe someone wanted $100 worth of his picture, what was really unbelievable was, he'd come across not just the one BL had discovered but there were at least 4 more envelopes with $100 bills in them. Luke looked up from where he sat reading the newspaper. "Are you about done in there?" Luke asked as he finished his coffee. Bo grinned, "No, I'm not." Luke sighed, "I was going to ride with you to the Boar's Nest, but I can take the truck." Bo frowned at that comment, "Well, I can finish this later tonight. Besides, I need to get Daisy to get me some more pictures printed and get some more of these big envelopes." Luke looked at the supplies that Bo had spread across the table. "Bo how much is it costing per picture to send them out?" Bo shrugged, "Not that much.“ He gathered his receipts together and handed them to Luke." Jesse put his paper down and began to listen closer to his boy's conversation. Luke took a piece of paper and pen and began writing the prices down. "Is that all you need to send them out?" Bo replied, "Except the stamps." Luke nodded and added the price of the stamps. "Now how many pictures did you get made from this stuff?" Bo replied and Luke divided the cost by the number of pictures. "Four dollars." Bo smiled, "See. A dollar profit isn't bad." Jesse spoke up, "How much are you paying Daisy to make them there pictures?" "$1.50", Bo replied. Luke subtracted that and then circled the total, handing Bo the paper a big circle drawn around -50 cents, "Where are you getting a dollar profit, cousin? By the time you add up expenses, plus Daisy's pay, you're in the hole by fifty cents." Luke said. Bo groaned miserably, his get rich quick idea, wasn't working out so good, optimistic as always he reasoned things had to get better. “Luke that can't be right.” Bo said as he looked over the list of expenses. Jesse cautioned. “You will fill each order and pay Daisy.” Bo saw the looks from both Jesse and Luke. "Yes sir", Bo said dejectedly. Dividing the pile of cash when he'd finished filling the orders. ^^^^^^^^^^^^^^

The next morning, nothing was forthcoming from Dixie still as they got ready for work, "See you at the Boar's Nest after work?" BL asked, “Yeah, I'll be there," Dixie replied, she couldn't not go, BL would really think something was going on between her and Luke. "Good, I should be a house owner by then. Miz Tisdale and me are going to see Boss at lunch, so Miz Tisdale can sign it over to me." BL said "That's awesome BL!" Dixie said...glad BL was letting go of the, her and Luke together notion. —------------------------ Dixie was on the road heading to work.This was the time of day she had to herself and could think. She couldn't believe how her family was acting because she dropped off the radar for a couple hours. She knew her father hadn't wanted her dating Luke when she was a teen, but that was several years ago. They hadn't really had five minutes alone since she got back into town to talk. The moment they took the time to actually have a conversation and everyone wanted to get all up in the air. Dixie looked at the car clock. She had to stop thinking and drive or she was going to be late. —------------------- Nearing the Smokejumpers Training Center Luke was also thinking about last night and how Bo had acted, not to mention how he figured the Davenports had acted by the tone of BL's conversation with Bo. He felt kind of bad that Dixie had said she didn't want to get into all the drama that had happened before she left town. He really hoped that didn't mean she was thinking of leaving town again. He shook those thoughts out of his mind as he pulled in to work and needed to get things set up for the classes he was teaching today. —--------------------- BL was sorting the mail getting more aggravated by the minute, each time she had found something addressed to Bo, the envelope had smelled flowery, stuffing letters into slots, she came across three more envelopes for Bo Duke and only one of them didn't smell flowery. The bell over the door jingled, Bo and Cletus came walking in together. "Hey BL" they said in unison. —------------------------ "I'm here to get my P.O. box mail and might as well get the farm's mail while I'm here,"Bo said. "Yeah me too, well not the farm's mail, just my P.O. box mail." Cletus said. "Nobody gets nothing until they take a number", BL said. Bo gave her his lady killer grin as he took a number, "Yes, Ma'am, here ya go and I got my ID right here too." Cletus took the next number and got his license out waiting his turn. Half of her wanted to wring Bo's neck but when he flashed his lady killer grin she weakened. Instead of being snippy and jealous sounding, she looked at his license, more for show than to identify him. Leaning to the left, BL retrieved a small stack of mail that was both Bo's P.O. box mail and, the farm's mail, "That's the farm's and your P.O. box, didn't see no point in putting a few letters in that big box." BL explained. Seeing the larger stack of mail than he'd been getting, Bo smiled widely. "Thanks, BL." Bo said without offering any information as to what the mail was or who all the good smelling letters were for. —---------------------- Cletus showed his ID and license to BL. She turned to look in his PO Box and said, "I'm sorry Cletus, there's no mail for you today." Cletus shrugged his shoulders, and replied. "That's alright BL. See ya tomorrow." Later in the afternoon BL and Sadie were delivering the mail, as they got near Hobie Harkins home BL said, "This ones a special delivery, from the U.S. government it says, so you are going to make sure Hobie gets it. Sadie gave a woof and bounded out of the car with the registered envelope. Hobie was sitting on the porch when he heard a car pulling up and out of it jumped a wolf! He tried to stand up quickly but his moonshine pickle legs weren't having it. "Wolf! Wolf!" Sadie kept on her path toward the drunken man who thought she was a wolf and actually ‘woofed’ at him. Hearing the ‘woof’ Hobie tried harder to focus and now made out the dog that looked a lot like "Lassie". Being very relieved that she was a dog and not a wolf, "Well, hello there Lassie. What on Earth are you doing here?" Sadie, tilted her head curiously, stretching out her neck cautiously, Hobie's fearful reaction at first, making her movements more gentle. "Is that for me Lassie?", Hobie asked as he took the envelope with an unsteady hand. Returning to the car, Sadie jumped in the back seat. —------------------------- Dixie walked into the Control as the Shift commander hung up the phone with a glum look hand me that X list Dixie, Joey won't be here tonight. Dixie handed him the list but said I know whose turn it is ... Mine. Well do you want 4 or 8 he asked, relieved it wasn't his turn. 4 is fine Dixie said. As he wrote it down he answered the ringing phone yes she's right here Dixie was surprised to get a call at work and not having any idea who it could be she answered officer Davenport” “Well officer Davenport this is Senior Smokejumper Duke here.” “Luke” she said “Hey I don't want to bother you at work” “You're not” “I'm going to be late so I figured on going to the farm for dinner before going to the Boars Nest. But I wanted to talk to you about how everyone acted last night” “Me too but I'm working over 4 hours. I'll stop if I see you there”. “Sounds like a plan” —------------------------------- After dinner Luke came in from changing shirts to find Bo opening an envelope, putting a five dollar bill in his shirt pocket, reading the contents, signing a picture, addressing a large envelope and sealing it with the picture inside. He watched as Bo opened a second envelope and began the process again. What are you doing? Making money Bo replied Putting another 5 in his pocket And keeping my loyal fans happy since they can't see me on a big track this season. —------------------------------- BL pulled into the Boar's Nest parking lot, giving it a once over survey, she didn't see Dixie's Thunderbird or Luke's truck. Shrugging she figured they both were working over and would be there later. “Be back in a little while Sadie.” BL said, heading inside. "BL have you heard from Dixie?" Cooter asked, before she even got sat down good. Shaking her head 'no' BL replied "she probably just got stuck with last minute overtime." Daisy came over asking, "Want a beer? Need a refill fellas?" Getting yes's all around, Daisy went to the bar, coming back shortly with three beers. —-------------------------- Dixie finally got a break after dinner was served at Tri-Counties Jail. She glanced at the time and knew the garage would be closed. She dialed the number to the Hazzard operator and had the Boar's Nest rung. "Boar's Nest this is Daisy." came the answer on the other end of the phone. "Hey Daisy, it's Dixie. Can you let anyone who needs to know I'm working over a bit and may stop by there on my way home." Dixie said. Daisy replied, "Sure thing." —---------------------------------- Hanging up the phone, Daisy went straight to the usual table, where Cooter, BL, and Bo was, “Dixie just called, to let ya'll know she's gotta work over a bit. Said she might stop on her way home," Daisy delivered the message. "Thanks Daisy, " Cooter said. A few minutes later Luke walked into the Boar's Nest, ordered a beer at the bar and made his way over to the table. "Hey all. You know after working over and uncle Jesse's dinner I almost didn't come out after I showered." "You not come out for a beer??" Cooter ribbed him. Luke replied, "I said almost!" The evening continued with the guys keeping up their banter while they sipped a round of beer. —-------------------------- Dixie neared the Boar's Nest after changing clothes at work. She noticed everyone else's vehicles there so she pulled in. Once inside she let her eyes adjust to the low lighting then made her way back to the empty seat at the table where everyone else was seated. "Sorry I'm late ya'll but duty called." "About time, you got here sis," Cooter said. Dixie had a couple beers then said, "think I'll call it a night, it was a long day." Not wanting to feed Bo's suspicions of him and Dixie rekindling things between them, Luke waited until everyone else left an hour later, despite being tired and just wanting to go home and go to bed early. —------------------------------ Dixie had hung back just a bit after pulling out from the Boar's Nest hoping but not really expecting to see Luke's truck catching up to her. She was pretty sure she understood that he'd stay until at least someone else left so they wouldn't think that he was meeting her. Dixie would be glad for a day off tomorrow as she went in and got ready for bed. ^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^