DixieDavenport

The boys chopped the wood pile until called to wash up for supper. Jesse was sure that especially since Luke had done all the chopping that he would have soon convienced Bo they should tell the truth. To be honest Jesse had forgot about Bo's wrist the until after he'd sent them to chop the wood. He wouldn't have sent them to do a one sided job though Bo was working one handed pretty well. Jesse figured they'd be back to talk after they'd chopped enough wood to satisfy him and then they would all have a talk. Now Jesse was worried. Whatever they were hiding must be pretty bad. He was used to them backing each other but neither had keys to the General Lee. He could count the times on one hand he'd used this punishment and none had lasted this long. Supper pasted without two words being said. It was known to the entire family Luke had a hot date lined up tonight, yet nothing had been said. Jesse saw they were about done with dinner and said, "Boys, if you two are done, stack your plates, your room is calling." Luke looked at Bo. Then asked, "Uncle Jesse can I call Mary Beth to tell her I won't be there tonight?" Jesse was shocked. Luke would do without the General Lee and cancel his date over this. "Luke, yes you can if that's your choice, but you are both grounded until I get the truth. Luke dropped his head just a bit, went to the phone, cancelled his date, put his plate in the sink and went to his room. He was followed quickly by Bo. Luke layed on his bed with his newest car magazine. Bo flopped on the bed and stared at the ceiling. This went on for about an hour, before Luke said, "Bo I can't even tune the General without the keys for the race Saturday should we get to race. I have cancelled, ......" Luke sighed, kicking himself for the thought that had ran through his head. He knew Bo didn't want to hear it, but here it went. "cancelled a 'sure' thing, God help me for that thought under the circustances, but it was. I am now grounded to my room after chopping wood all day because you went out last night. So help me Hannah, you make one move towards that window tonight and Jesse will have the WHOLE story by the time you get to the drive way. Bo, DA-- it! Enough is enough. You have got to tell Jesse." Luke hoped Bo would tell the truth but he'd be happy if Jesse just thought it was the truth. Bo had layed unmoving on his bed. He knew Luke told him the truth. Tears well up in his eyes as he said, "Luke, ........ I ........ can't. ...... I just can't."

In the house the girls were talking and baking cookies for a snack when they heard a car out front. Daisy looked outside, "That's Robin." Dixie wanted to see this 'Robin'. She wasn't sure she knew her. If Daisy thought Luke might have married her she had to be something special. 'I have been up this drive way hundreds of times and now I'm nervous. Maybe Luke isn't even home.' thought Robin as she turned up the drive way to the Duke Farm. She had heard, as had everyone that Luke had been in jail for fighting. She also knew he'd been released that day. As her headlights swept the front lawn she saw the General Lee, her brother, Marks' Firebird and all the other vehicles. She also knew Luke would be home somewhere. 'Well, if Daisy is having a party then the guys are sure to be in the barn.' Her suspisions were confirmed when she saw the barn light on. She thought, 'Da--, Luke I still know you too well!' She pulled her car up close to the house hoping that Luke wouldn't see it. She walked up the front steps to the front door. Robin opened the door like she had done for several years now and called, "Daisy?" "We're in the kitchen." called Daisy. Robin knew from the second she walked in that she was welcome here and began to relax. She walked in saying, "Muuummm. Something smells great!" she reached for a warm cookie on the plate. As she chewed the cookie she reached in the cabinet for a glass which she filled with milk. "So what's the reason for the party?" Daisy replied "Equal rights! The guys are doing their thing and I didn't want to be the only girl at home." Robin raised her glass, "To equal rights!" Everyone laughed. That is everyone but Dixie who was too busy studying Robin. She was dressed comfortably in jeans, sneakers, and a T-shirt. Dixie observed that it didn't appear she was here to impress Luke or anyone else. For some reason it made Dixie feel a little better about her being here. Dixie learned Robin was easy going, fun to be around, and she seemed so confident. ~~~~~~~~~~~~~ Luke looked out the door. It only took a half a second to identify THAT car. He returned to the others. "Who was that?" asked Mark McCormick. "Someone I used to know." Luke replied coldly, "Daisy's friend and your sister." said Luke as he drained the half a glass of shine that he had been sipping on. Jesse had known that they would want to 'celebrate' Luke's return home so he had brought them a gallon of his finest shine and cautioned that they didn't have to drink it all tonight. Bo and Cooter looked at each other as Luke set the glass down.

"Now, Uncle Jesse....." Luke began. "Don't you Uncle Jesse me." Jesse didn't take kindly to being lied to no matter what the reason was. "I woke in the middle of the night, Bo wasn't in bed. I thought maybe his wrist was bothering him or he was sick or something so I went looking for him ...." said Luke. Bo had given him a worried look when he started out with a total truth. Jesse replied, "I see you found him. Where was he?" Luke continued, "Bo had went for a walk. He and Beth are having problems." "That right Bo? What kind of problems?" asked Jesse. Bo wasn't sure to kiss or kill Luke now. He had told basically the truth but may have put it a little too close to home for Bo's liking considering the 'problem' they had. "After taking a walk and clearing my head, I see the problem is temporary and will work itself out. It's really nothing for you to worry about." NARRATOR: Yeah, I've always considered pregnancy at 'tempory' problem. It doesn't look like old Jesse's buying the story though. "Well, let me tell you a thing or two Mr. When I wake up and my nephews are gone that mind you I have to wake up every morning I know something is wrong. I also know a shuck and jive when I hear it. Remember I taught you how to do it! Breakfast is on the stove. There's a wood pile out there in need of chopping. And, boys, I'll be asking for the keys to the General Lee until your ready to tell me just what is going on." said Jesse holding out his hand for the keys. Bo and Luke handed over both sets of keys and headed to the kitchen like a couple whipped pups.

At MSU Bo, Jr. feeling just a bit more home sick than he had since his first week here. He had been plowing through the 'red tape' to get transfered by the end of the semster. Reviews for finals were starting. He had talked to Jessica several times since being back. He could hardly wait to be home. He flipped channels on the remote when something, well, someone familiar caught his eye. He flipped back in time to hear most of Luke's interview. "Matt. Hey, Matt come here." he called. "That's my Dad's cousin!" "No way!" Matt said. Almost thinking Bo, Jr. was pitching him a tall tail. Until the writing on the TV screen read Luke Duke. The reporter was now telling more about the fire in Alabama. "Hey, you said he lived in Georgia." " He DOES! Beats me!" he looked at the clock. It was almost midnight. "It's too late to call tonight. I'll call tomorrow and see what's up." Cue Beth

Beth might have gotten in without being heard but there was NO WAY it would be that easy at home thought Luke. "You know, ALL she needed was to get caught outin the woods with BOTH of us! In my jacket! I am the only one over eighteen! Just who do you think her Dad would shoot FIRST?" Luke was not happy! Bo's wrist was hurting, and Luke sure had a way sometimes of making him feel knee high to an ant and now was one of those times. "I didn't ask you to get involved." They were now in the middle of the woods that ran between the Duke farm and Beth's house. Luke shouted, "NO, you DIDN'T ask me, but you sure left me little choice either. Like now! I don't have a cerfew, but I'm beating I'm just as grounded tonight as you are. Now what do you plan to tell Uncle Jesse when we get home after he's opened the door to wake us and we aren't there?"

In the living room were Bo, Sr., Beth, Dixie, Debbie and Ruth Anne. The others were in bed by now. Jake had insisting on turning the TV on to maybe get a glimpse of the fire in Alabama, so far nothing had been mentioned. They all were talking lowly when the phone rang, Dixie answered on the second ring. She too had been tired from working harder than she ever thought of at 'work'. Bo teased, "You don't really want to talk to that cousin of mine do ya." Dixie hit him with a pillow as Beth elbowed him. Luke heard the comotion in the background of the phone. "Dixie, what is going on." "Nothing much just hit Bo with a pillow!" she said innocently. "Hey, someone wants to say 'Hi'." she handed the phone to Jake. "Hey, Luke. We're watching the news but haven't seen anything on the fire." said Jake. "Hey, yourself. We're making progress with it for now. The way the reporters are crawling around here I'd figure it being on TV. Just remember that not everything is as they report it." stated Luke. "Ok, well, here's Dixie." he said handing the phone back to Dixie. She took the cordless phone and into the kitchen for supposedly a cup of coffee as they talkled. "Jake came over to the garage today as we were finishing up for the day. He's going to help me tomorrow." Luke repliled, "And to think I was worried about you tackling that mess alone." "Luke he is more like like you than you'd believe. He's not going to let me carry things up the steps, said he'd get LB to help. AND he out ran me today!" she exclaimed. Luke sighed. "He out ran you how?" Dixie replied innocently. "In Debbie's Accord." she said quietly so Beth wouldn't hear. "He jumped his Camero is partly why he beat me." "Oh, Lord." said Luke. "I have created monsters! I've been back in your life and in his less than a month and YOU TWO are racing!" "It was probably the THIRD most fun I've had in years." she explained. "Third?" he asked. "Yeap. Seeing the hayloft with you. Riding in the General Lee with you and then racing today." she said. "You know I can't wait to get there a straighten you two out!" he joked. "Seriously, though I never thought I'd miss you so much." "I have been just going through the motions for so very long. It is good to feel again. I have felt more 'at home' and more satified than I have in years. All this time you were right here and I was being stubborn." she said. Luke did know what she meant. "You weren't being stubborn. You had no idea things worked out like they did after you left." "Maybe, if I hadn't left. If I'd been stronger." she remembered the old bad times again. "I have something to tell you, Mr. Duke. I want to wait until our wedding night to tell you but I don't know if I can wait that long." "Just remember. Like us and good shine, if its worth having or telling it's worth waiting for." he reminded her. "Thanks, Luke." she said. "For what?" he asked she was being a bit sintamental tonight. She smiled and said, "For still loving me." "It should be me thanking you for putting up with ME!" he said as Randy montioned for him. "Da--. They found me. I've got to go. Remember I love you and tell that son of mine I love him too. AND I'll be home soon to straighten you both out. Oh, tell him he won't beat me!" "I love you too. They are calling me too! Night." said Dixie. "Night." Luke hung up to go see what his friend Randy wanted. He wanted to show him the interview Luke had done with the reporter about the fire. "I thought you wanted something important!" Luke said as he listened to the interview. "Oh, Lord, I hope they aren't watching this." ~~~~~~~~~~~~ Dixie went into the living room to see air views from a forest fire. It took just a second to see figure it was the Alabama fire that Luke was on. They were tellilng how many acres had burnt. Then it showed pictures of Smokejumpers jumping into the area. The reporter said, "We're waiting outside a Command post hoping to get word with the Smokejumper that lead his team and eight civilians out of that fire today while carrying a small child most of the way." The camera changed to the interview with Luke. "We just went in and did our jobs. They had not left when told to evacuate and got trapped the ground crews had to fight the fires in order to get in there. It was faster to fly us in." said Luke. The reporter asked, "You cared a child out?". Luke replied. "Yes, the fire was coming down the mountain behind us pretty quick. It was faster to carry him." The reporter kept on "When you reached the river, the fire was behind you? How did you cross?" Luke said, "There was a large tree we cut to make a bridge. After getting across we walked out until we met the ground crew with the trucks." "One more question?" the reporter asked, "How did you know which way to go to get away from the fire?" Luke replied, "We are briefed on the fires progress, winds, weather and have good maps of the area. We also have safety spots in case of emergenices like today. I was closer to that river than a safety zone." "You've been a Smokejumper how long?" the reporter pushed. Luke said, "Nine years. Now excuse me I have to go." The reporter said, "Thank you." and continued more details on the fire. Ruth Ann said, "I want to do that!"

The Smokejumpers were up well before dawn. The chiefs who run the fire were studying its progress through the night. At the morning briefings the Smokejumpers were given their assignments before heading to a local airport. The safety zones were layed out in case the wind shifted. The fire was progressing towards a camping area. Luke's team were going to make sure everyone had left. Ground crews would met them with trucks to evacuate the civilians that might be left. The way the fire was burning it would be blocking the enterance road in several spots and the ground crews would have to fight their way in and back out. The team managed to land perfectly into the camping area. There were two families who had tried to hook up their campers and pack up before leaving. Unfortunely, they took too long. Luke hadn't liked what he saw on the way down the fire was coming quickly up the mountain. The campground was on the top of the mountain. Fire traveled faster up hill than it did down hill. Luke gathered his team and the eight civilians. He looked to his Captain, "Take them, head down the mountain due East. There is a river at the bottom. I'm going to call in a water drop hopefully it will buy us some time. Move them out. I'll catch up." Without question she turned to the people with a calm, authoritive voice. "We need to move and move out now!" Luke took his radio, giving his position and requested a water drop. He also advised they had eight people they were moving toward the river just East of his position. He knew the fire was getting closer as the smoke was getting thicker. The Command Center verified his position and confirmed the water drop. Luke headed down the trail to catch up to his crew. He hoped they were making good time. When he caught up to them the plane was ready to make its drop. Luke instructed the civilians to get on their hands and knees then tuck their heads in case the drop did hit them. He took the smallest child and placed him under himself for protection. When the plane dropped the water they were indeed hit by some of the water. After checking that everyone was Ok, Luke got them moving again. He knew the fire was advancing. He put the child on his shoulders and carried him. They didn't have much time to reach the river. He hoped he could find them a way across. As they reached the river the fire was half way down the mountain. There was nowhere insight to cross. The river was deep but narrow. The Smokejumpers found a large tree tall enough to reach across the river. They wasted no time cutting it for a bridge. Once everyone was across the river the tree was cut so the fire couldn't travel it to the other side. Luke kept the group moving to where the ground crews would meet them. When the fire reached the river it had no place to go and went out. At least this one section had contained itself. Now they just had to fight their way out to get back to the base camp. Once out the Smokejumpers fought the fire with ground crews until dark. Then, returned to the base camp for showers, food and a little sleep. Luke learned that the fire was fifty percent contained. Maybe tomorrow would have be better. Luke was coming out of the Command Tent when he was stopped by a reporter with one of the women that had been in the group that the team had gotten to safety. The woman was making a big deal out of what Luke did. He gave a statement to the reporter playing down his and his team's role as best he could. ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ Back in Hazzard. Dixie and Debbie had been cleaning since early that morning. Beth had wanted to come but Dixie refused to let her with the cleaners and paint smells. By supper time Dixie felt like they'd be ready to start painting tomorrow. She also planned to purchase a new mattress set so the next time she came in she could stay there and not be a bother to Bo and Beth. She and Luke had planned not to put a lot of money in the apartment as they figured they'd only be there a few months. She and Debbie were just getting ready to leave when they heard a car pull up. Looking down Dixie saw Jake getting out of the car. She smiled, "Debbie you want to know what Luke looks like. Well, your about to see what he looked like when I first met him. Come on." Pulling Debbie to the outside door. Debbie gave her a confused look. Dixie called, "Jake up here." "Hey, Dixie. I heard that LB was endanger so I thought I'd come check on him." he smiled. "Well, he lived but it was close. Thanks to Bo, Sr. and Jesse yesturday. I want you to met Debbie. We work together. Come on up." said Dixie. She had not told anyone the she was a Correctional Officer other than Luke, Cooter and LB. Of course with the other excitement no one had asked either. Debbie saw the handsome dark haired young man that came up the steps. Dixie continued her introduction, "Debbie this is Jake, Luke's son." Debbie looked a bit shocked. 'It seems Dixie left THAT part out. Though I can sure see why Dixie fell for his Dad. If I were say fifteen years younger.' she thought with a smile on her face. "Nice to meet you Jake." "Same here, Debbie." then he turned to Dixie. "You should have called me I'd been more than happy to have help you all out. With Bo, Jr. at school things are back to boring." "Well, I'll take you up on it tomorrow if you're willing to help us get a mattress up these steps?" said Dixie. "I'll get LB to help me get it up here. But, I'm willing." said the young man. Dixie shook her head. 'You my friend are more like your Dad than you know.' she thought. It was as if Jake read her mind. "Have you heard from Luke?" She smiled, and replied, "Yes, he called me last night. He is suppose to call tonight though he said it would likely be late. Why don't you come out for supper and you can talk to him when he calls." "Ok, why will it be late?" he asked. Dixie wasn't sure if he knew anymore about Luke's job than she did. "He's on a fire in Alabama ....." "Alabama? Whoa!" said the young man. Dixie laughed, "That was my reaction too! He said they might be showing some shots on the news channel but I haven't had time to look and I'm not sure I want to." "Let's go eat! Then we'll see if its showing the pictures." he insisted. "Ok." Dixie shut the door and headed to Debbie's small car. Jake shouted, "Race ya?" Debbie looked at him in disbelief. "He is kidding?" Dixie replied, "He had BETTER be kidding." They left for Bo's. Cue Beth

After a supper fit for a king, with all that Jesse had cooked, not to mention the added 'goodies' that Dixie brought, the girls began to clean up the kitchen. "Daisy do you think Uncle Jesse would mind me staying tonight?" "Sugar, my Uncle Jesse has never minded company." replied Daisy. "Hey, I've got a good idea. Let's call the new girl, Beth, and ask her over. We never got to really get to know her before school let out. As a matter of fact we could call and see if Jill, Robin, and Kathy can come over too. Though I don't expect Robin to come because of Luke, but I haven't invited her lately. Make it a PJ party." Dixie smiled, weakly, 'This was not what she had in mind, but it might be fun.' she thought, and then asked, "What do you mean, Robin won't come because of Luke?" Daisy smiled weakly, "We use to be good friends or at least I though we were until her and Luke broke up. I don't know. Maybe he boyfriend won't let her stay, maybe she feels awkward or maybe she just used me. Her and Luke were a 'thing' for over two years then it fell apart. I thought he'd marry her for sure, but he never mentioned what happened. Then, he just began running kinda wild, not dating anyone seriously since her." Daisy paused, "I better go ask before we get on the phone." Daisy found Uncle Jesse and the guys on the porch. "Uncle Jesse, would you mind, since I know these guys have plans, if I called a few friends to see if they'd like to come over for a PJ party?" The guys rolled there eyes. This meant they were sleeping in the barn for sure. It also meant that they could drink there and not be on the roads. 'There went sleeping in his own bed.' thought Luke. Jesse smiled at his only niece, "Sure you all can have a PJ party in the and the guys here can have the barn." Daisy did have the good graces to say, "Thank you Uncle Jesse. Thanks guys!" she said before rushing into the house to call the girls. "Boys, what are your plans for tonight?" questioned Jesse. Who waslooking at Luke. Luke replied, "I'm just glad to be home. I think they might have something planned which is OK by me as long as I can stay out of trouble." It was Cooter who spoke volumes with his next thought, "Only way I see that happening for sure is to stay here." The guys all agreed much to Jesse's relief. He was thinking what Luke had been. That the law would be looking hard to try to put him back in jail at least for a day or two figuring he'd be trying to make up for the two weeks he wsa in jail. Luke called his friend Mark McCormick and he'd be over soon. The five Duke boys and Cooter headed to the barn to get things set up. In the house Daisy and Dixie were expecting Jill, Kathy, and Beth. Robin said she might drop by but couldn't stay long. Daisy really didn't expect her. Dixie thought now was as good a time as any to talk to Daisy before the others got there. "Daisy," Dixie almost pleaded, "You know that I feel guilty over Luke being in jail?" "Honey, what on Earth did Luke getting into a fight have to do with you?" asked Daisy. Tears threaten to fall when Dixie continued, "I went out with Tommy. Tommy had tried to .... force ... me." she took a second before saying, "Nothing happened. I managed to fight my way out of the car and started walking. Luke had the wrecker and was coming back from a call. He picked me up, took me home. I told him what had happened. He promised not to tell Dad, Cooter, or anyone else." Daisy was making the connections now, "So when Luke caught up with Tommy he 'took care' of it himself. Honey, that is Luke." "But it was my fault he went to jail." stated Dixie. "Luke or any or those guys out there," Daisy pointed out the window at the yard full of guys. "Would have done the same thing for me or any other female. That's just the way they are. I'm sure that Luke thought things through before he acted. Now Bo on the other hand, would have acted and then thought." Daisy said smiling at her friend. Dixie had to laugh too. "Daisy I know I feel guilty but there's more. I get so nervous when Luke is around. My stomach feels funny..." Daisy smiled widely, "You can't quiet smiling and you heart flutters a bit?" Surprised Dixie looked at Daisy with a 'How did you know look?' "My cousins have that kind of effect on girls! It's normal. You just have a 'crush' on Luke." Daisy said. About that time two cars pulled up to the drive way. "They're here, come on." said Daisy as she headed out to greet their friends. In the first car was Kathy and Jill. Kathy parked her Camero out of the way. She had been to the Dukes many times. In the second car was Beth and her Mother. Daisy went to Beth's Mother's car to introduce herself and invite them in. "Hi, I'm Daisy Duke. I've seen you at school but I'm not sure we've met." She said to Beth's Mother. "Won't you come in for a spell? I know you'll want to meet my Uncle Jesse." Daisy saw the look that appeared on Beth's Mother's face when Cooter and the others came over to Kathy's car. Beth's Mother replied very sternly, "I hadn't planned to get out but 'Yes' I would like to met your parents before I decide if Beth can spend the night." 'Here we go! I thought it was already 'decided' when I packed my stuff to stay' thought Beth. This was her first invitation to a friends house in a new town and her Mother was going to mess it up. Jesse had been busy when the cars pulled up but was now on his way outside. Daisy saw him and called. "Uncle Jesse I want you to meet Beth and her Mother." Beth's Mother saw a friendly looking older man wearing bibbed overhauls and a red ball cap. By her thinking he didn't look like he was expecting company. She was still waiting to see this Daisy's Mother. And all those boys. Who were they and just what kind of a party was suppose to go on here. She thought. "Ma'am." Jesse extended his hand. "I'm Jesse Duke, Daisy's Uncle." Jesse saw her gaze go to the guys who were heading towards the barn. "Now, Ma'am, most of that bunch of boys there are my nephews and they have a friend or two over but they know their limits and so do the girls who will be over tonight. The girls are going to be in the house. The boys are sleeping in the barn. At least one of these girls dates a friend of my boys. I would not let them both have friends over like this if I couldn't be sure that they all know not to buck me." Jesse smiled at Beth, "I'm sure that Miss Beth here will mind me just like my own do. Isn't that right?" Beth could have hugged the older man right there. "Yes, Sir." Beth's Mother still wasn't sure, and asked, "So, Daisy where are your parents? I know that your Uncle here isn't the only adult here with all you kids." Daisy smiled proudly, "Yes, Ma'am, my Uncle Jesse has raised all six of us since we were small." "Six?" she said in disbelief. "Sir, you are raising six teens alone? Good, Lord." "Yes, ma'am, they are good kids." stated Jesse equally as proud of 'his' kids as they were of him. "How many are going to be here tonight?" she questioned. Jesse looked to Daisy who was mentally counting. "Twelve maybe thirteen." "Oh, my." she said, "How many are boys?" Jesse replied, "My five nephews, Cooter and Mark. Seven." Beth's Mother saw that he said this with all the confidence in the world. She was certain when she saw all those boys that HER daughter would not be staying, but Jesse Duke did have a way of calming people down. She felt much better and decided to let Beth stay. "You have more patience than I'd ever have, Mr. Duke. Beth can stay." she said. Jesse took out a small notepad from his pocket and a pen. On one of the pages he wrote 555-7689, tore it out and handed it to Beth's Mother. "In case you want to call later to check on Beth." "Thank you. Call me if she doesn't mind. It was nice meeting you, Mr. Duke." she said. "Beth will be just fine." said Jesse as she was leaving. As her Mother drove away, she told Jesse, "Thank you, Mr. Duke. I thought for a minute I wasn't going to get to stay." Jesse smiled, "You are very welcome, young lady. There's only a couple of things we need to work on. First, its Jesse. Second, the first time you are here, you are company. Next time, you're family, so make yourself at home. We've already talked about the boys out there so there's no need to bring that up again. I'm going out there to check on them. You ladies have a good time." said Jesse as he headed to the barn.

Luke checked the clock. Bo had now ben gone three hours and five minutes, "Dang it Bo." Luke whispered. 'There's gonna to be a lot of explaining in a short while if your not back in this house.' thought Luke. 'And I'll be the one trying to explain it!' He tossed his covers back, took his jeans off the bed post, put them on, put on his shirt, picked up his boots and jacket, then went to the window Bo had went out of. This isn't the first time either of them had went either in or out of this window so Jesse wouldn't hear them. The problem with Uncle Jesse was that they only got away with it occassionly and they weren't even sure if it had worked or not sometimes. Jesse would bring it up in conversation as much as two weeks later something like 'Luke while your at it the hinges on the door on the SIDE of the house need oiled too' when they all knew that there wasn't a door on the side of the house. It seemed that Jesse was part blood hound of course you add to it that Jesse and both Bo and Luke's fathers as well as the others had grown up right here in this house too. As Luke dropped his boots out the window he wondered how many times Jesse himself had done this too. Once out of the window, Luke put his boots on and began to walk the 'short cut' to Beth's house. Driving would have been quicker but there wasn't a vehicle at the farm Luke could have gotten out of their without waking Jesse. Luke followed the path through the woods and was almost to the end when he saw them. He knew Bo hadn't heard him coming. These guys could move in the woods very quietly out of habit. It was taught to them before they began working the stills. Bo was leaning up against a large tree with Beth in his good arm and the hurt one proped on his raised knee. Before Luke took another step he said very quietly, "Bo its me." Bo turned his head quickly, a bit startled. "Luke what are you doing out here?" Luke looked at Bo in disbelief, "What am I doing out here? Well, for starters, I figured it would be easier to find you and hopefully get you back in the house than to EXPLAIN to Jesse where you were. Have you lost all your senses? Out here all night. It's too cold for Beth to be out here like this Bo." Bo looked at Beth. "Yes, Luke knows." Again, the only thing he could say when he saw the hurt in her eyes was, "I'm sorry." Being the only one of the three who had a jacket on. Luke took off his jacket, "Beth put this on." It swollowed her small frame but it was warm. Luke looked at the sky it was getting daylight. Luke could see Beth's house in the distance across an open field. "We're never going to pull this off. Beth what time does your parents get up?" Before she could answer the light coming on in a upstairs window answered for her.

Luke walked outside with his copy of the release in his pocket. Instead of going to the drivers side of the General he went to the passenger side. "Are you going to sleep there all day or are we going home?" he asked Bo who had indeed drifted off for a second. Bo about fell off the car trying to get up. "No, I ain't going to sleep all day and NO we're not going home yet." Luke smiled. 'I'd really like a shower before he starts with his plans.' thought Luke. "Well, where are we going?" "You'll see!" said Bo. As he jumped into the General, started him up and pulled out with a slight squeal of the tires. He circled Hazzard Square, pulling into the Hazzard Garage. "Jesse said we could hang out until about 4, so I brought you a change of clothes. Luther went to get parts and won't be home until late. Cooter said you could use the shower here so we can all hang out awhile before going home." Bo said almost begging. Luke smiled at his younger cousin. "Thanks, Bo!" He climbed out of the General. Bo tossed him the bag he'd put his clothes in. The young group greeted Luke as if he were a returning war hero! Good old Cooter supplied the beer. Luke headed them off as best he could as he headed for the back of the garage for the shower. Once in the bathroom with a couple of beers Luke began to feel more human. After his shower and shave he stuffed his other clothes in the bag and combed his hair. Luke did indeed feel better and headed out to see his friends and family. After everyone greeted Luke again things got kind of back to 'normal' and everyone sort of layed back. The garage was still open and someone had to collect for gas but other than that the garage wasn't busy. As Luke looked at his friends and family, he felt very lucky. He also noticed that Dixie was still acting like she felt guilty about him going to jail. Luke thought 'I'll have to make time to talk to her today.' then he took in her appearance. Then, he did a double take, without thinking about it. 'She has sure grown up this summer! Da--!' thought Luke!' he could not help himself seeing her white shorts and tan long legs.

Dixie told Debbie as the crossed the County line, "Keep an eye on your speed. This place still has its speed traps." Debbie who was a 'city' girl tookin the view. "Oh, my, it is simply beautiful here." Dixie replied,"Yeah, it is, but Hazzard is really different! You have been warned!" Debbie just laughed. 'All the tails she had heard about this place had to be just that!' she thought. Dixie directed her to the Hazzard Garage. Debbie took in the building that appeared to have needed painted 10 years ago. "This is it?" she questioned. "Yeah, and if you're thinking that the outside is bad, then the inside may scare you off for good! No one has lived upstairs in years. A couple of times Cooter, Luke and even Bo thought they wanted to be on there own and tried it for awhile. The guys stayed here sometimes too when they had big jobs to do or a race to get ready for and wanted to drink afterwards. Come on, let's find LB." Debbie wasn't sure what an LB was or if she wantedto find it! Dixie swung open the sliding door and called, "Hey, cousin, where are you?" The answer came from under the old car that was in the garage. "Right here. Dixie is that you?" Dixie pointed the boots sticking out form under the car. "Yes, it's me." "Congratulations! Finally hooked Luke, huh?" asked LB. Dixie kicked his boot hard. "Owww! Hey, Cooter called said you'd be by soon to fix up the upstairs. Hey, hand me that 3/4 inch socket on the bench." LB requested. Dixie without thinking reched for the socket and handed it to him. Debbie was shocked, She didn't know one tool form the other. LB continued, "The upstairs is open, Keys are on the peg board." "Thanks, LB. I'm going to use the phone too." she informed. Picking up the phone she got the Hazzard operator. The phone system hadn't changed even its operator since she was in school. "Maybelle, this is Dixie Davenport. I am expecting a call sometime tonight. I'll be at the garage if it comes through anytime soon." she paused. "Yes. Thank you. December 21st. Yes, of course you are. I haven't even had time to think of invitations. There is so much to do." she paused again listening. "Sure I will. I'll talk to you about it later." she said being nice but she needed to get busy. Hanging up she told Debbie, "Last chance to back out. Come on." They went up the inside steps to the small apartment. Dixie turned the door knob and it opened a couple inches then the door stuck. She shoved it. Nothing, She shoved it harder. It opened where she could get her head in to see what was up. "OH, MY! LB!! Get up here!" she yelled. "I just got a wrecker call!" he shouted back. "I'll wrecker YOUR call if you don't get up here!"she yelled back. LB now knew how his mild mannered cousin could be a Correctional Officer! "What in the world have you all done stored every broken part since I left Hazzard up here? Is there anything good up here?" "Sure, it all good." said LB. Dixie was heading toward the phone. "You better get to the good stuff before I do!" she said, "Maybelle get me the Duke farm." "Hello." said Beth. "Beth, is Bo finished with the General Lee?" asked Dixie. "What's wrong. Yes, he just got done." said Beth. Dixie explained rather calmly, "My cousin LB and possible my brother are going ot die a horrible death if I don't talk to Bo." Knowing what she was talking about Beth laughed and said, "Honey, Dixie needs to talk to you. Is it that BAD?" Dixie replied, "Worse! I can't even get the door open!" "Ok, here's Bo." replied Beth. "Bo, help! Can you and Jesse come down here for a bit and help me, Debbie and LB get into the upstairs? Do you know anyone with a truck or where I can get a dumpster?" Laughing, Bo replied, "Relax the cavary is coming. There should be a dumpster out the second window. I'll get Mr. Peabody's dump truck!" LB had made 5 trips up and back to get car magazines, good parts, and anything he thought he'd need while she was on the phone. He had gotten the door open. Dixie found the window and had raised it. Yes, there was a dumpster there. "Debbie, if it's not nailed down pitch it!" she instructed. As she reached for a fuel tank of of something and tossed it. LB started to object but figured it would be easier to just retrieve it from the dumpster. Bo pulled up out front and saw the dumpster at the side being filled to overflowing. He shook his head and turned the truck to back into the other side of the garage. "Come on son." he said to Jesse. By nine o'clock all that remained in the apartment was the furniture. Even the mattresses were taken out. It was a good thing the girls were staying at Bo's. Dixie had plans to be at Ruebottoms' when they opened. For paint and cleaners she hadn't brought. When the work crew arrived at Bo's, Beth said, "Good Lord what happeed to you?" Dixie smiled, "LB survived barely! I hope what ever the girls cooked is good cold. need a shower. Will you call Maybelle, and tell her I'm here?" ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ After everyone had showered, they sat down to a warmer up dinner of meatloaf and mashed potatos with the trimmings. By 11pm every one was heading to their beds, all but Dixie. Luke had still not called. ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ When the fire crew broke for the night it was late by the time they had gotten to area where the showers and food were set up. Being the Senior Smokejumper, Luke had more responsibilities than the others. He was dealing with making sure they were feed, had their turn at a shower, and a place to grab a few hours sleep. When Luke had time to check his watch it wa 11:30pm, he rang the Hazzard operators number, "Maybelle, Dixie Davenport is expecting a call from me. She said she'd let you know where she is." Luke listened. "Thank you. She's at the farm? Yeah, go ahead and ring it." Dixie about jumped thorugh her skin as she had drifted off. She grabbed the phone to keep from waking the others. "Hello." "Sorry, I called do late. I thought you two were staying at the Garage?" Luke questioned. "That was the plan unitl I couldn't get the door open. I think Cooter and LB AND probably you and Bo have put every old part you've ever changed up there." she replied. Luke asked, "That bad?" She replied "Worse! Bo, Jesse and LB by default helped us get the stuff out! Tomorrow Debbie and I will start the first round of cleaning. Luke, where are you?" He laughed at her, "Turn on the TV to the news channel they are crawling around here. We are on the fire in Alabama." he said as if being several states away was the most normal thing he had ever done. "If the the winds would die down and we'd get some rain, we might get out of here in a day or two." "Your going to be on a single fire three days?" she questioned. Luke laughed, "I said two more days IF we're lucky! This thing is really going at it and it has plenty of fuel." Secretly, Luke hope this would be the last large fire they would have before the fire season ended. He could sure stand training others and preparing for the next season on a 9-5 basis. Ususally he dreaded the down time of the off seasons but not this year. "What has Bo been doing other than saving LB?" he asked. "He replaced a distributor on the General earlier before I got here." she said smiling in anticipation of Luke's reply. "He what? Who timed him?" questioned Luke.This was the part of being away from home that bugged him. Smiling, Dixie replied, "Bo, I guess. LB was at the garage with me." "You know that I had timed and tuned him before I left?" Luke exclaimed. Dixie almost laughed, "Well, maybe in a few months things will get backto normal here and Bo won't be TRYING to work on the General Lee." she said humoring Luke. "I sure hope so." Luke replied, "I guess I had better let you get some sleep. Sounds like you have a rough day ahead of you." "You didn't paint a real cheery picture for your day either." she added. Luke replied, "Piece of cake. Besides, I love my job! Jump out of an airplane, fight a fire for hours then hike out. Easy!" "Yeah, Right!" she replied. She heard some one call for him in the background. "I heard. I'll talk to ya when you can call." "Unless, things change it will be late tomorrow evening. I do love you." he said. "After the junk I went through today you had better. I love you too. Night." She said. "Night. Got to run." He replied. As Dixie hung up the phone she heard Beth leave her room quietly going to the bathroom. In less than a minute it was obvious that Beth was sick. Dixie knocked on the bathroom door, saying, "Beth, its me." In between getting sick, Beth replied, "I'm OK." Dixie tried the door. It was open. She got a cool cloth for Beth's head and took the seat beside her best friend on the side of the tub as Beth got sick in the toilet. After several minutes Beth regained her composure. "Looks, like I'm getting my answer. I have gotten sick at night with the boys and the girls in the mornings." Beth wiped her face again with the cool cloth. "Where is Bo?" asked Dixie. Beth smiled, "Asleep, I hope I didn't wake him over this." ~~~~~~~~~~~~~ Cue Beth

It was Wednesday morning (well it was still night) when Luke's radio went off. he was standing in the middle of the floor before he realized why. The page on the radio advised Luke's team to be at base camp ASAP and ready to leave by dawn. Lights began coming on throughout the house as the six began to get ready. Before leaving Luke looked at the clock on the wall 3am. 'No way I'm waking her at this hour.' he tucked the cell phone in his pocket and the team headed off to the base camp. By 5am they had readied their equipment and the plane was warming up. Luke counted his men and two women as they got into the plane as he dialed his cell phone. Dixie blindly reached for the phone, saying, "Hello?" before she heard Luke's voice she could hear noises she couldn't identify. "Honey, sorry to wake you. I know you are going to Hazzard after work, right? I wasn't sure when I'd be able to call but we are flying out on a fire as I speak. Wanted you to know in case you try to call and I'm not there. I'll call you when I can." Luke said in one breath. He had heard his team many times in the past make such phone calls. Dixie tried to process the rapid information being given her. "Luke," she knew he didn't have much time to talk. She wanted to know more than he had time to say. She was going to have to get used to this and it wasn't going to be really easy. She continued, "I should be in Hazzard by 6 if I don't get stuck working. I'll let Maybelle know where I am when I get there. Be careful and I love you!" "Love you too. I'm holding up the world here. Got to go." Luke said as the phone went dead. Dixie was now awake. She went to the restroom then to the kitchen for a glass of pop. She checked the time. It was 5:15am. Normally being awaken at this time of the day she would have went right back to bed and the idea was appealing to her body but knew her mind wouldn't rest. ~~~~~~~~~~ By Wednesday 4pm Debbie had been approved for the time off in Dec. It was Dixie's turn, "Clock me out. I'm going upstairs (to the Administrators Office) be back in a minute." She reached the Office knowing that only the Dep. Administrator would be in this time of day. "Can I talk to you a minute before ou leave?" she asked of the woman who was slightly older than herself. The woman sat her stuff back down and said, "Sure. Something wrong?" "No, not really. As a matter of fact I think things are trying to go my for a change. You know when I was off last week? I went back to my home town." she paused. "I purposely went back looking for someone to either finish something, ..... or, .... start something. Well, he was there. We had a good time. Then we talked, and well," she smiled, "the feelings are still there for both of us." she now showed off her left hand, "He asked me to marry him and I said 'yes'." The older woman studied her hand, "Well, congratulations!" "Thank you." she said, "Now, you know I love my job, but this is quiet a drive to drive everyday. I was wondering what I'd have to do to get transfered to Tri-Counties Regional? I've talked to there transportation people when they are here and I know they have a turn over." Dixie also knew the the older woman took training with the some of the head people at the Tri-Counties Regional. She looked at the schedule. "You're off tomorrow? When do you work again?" "I'll be back Sat." replied Dixie. The older woman said, "I should have at least the information for you by Monday. I hate to loose you, but I knew you had been waiting for something. I hope this is it. Congratulations, again. When do you want to transfer?" she said picking up her things. Dixie thought about it. "We are getting married Dec 21. If it was before that would be OK. I could get things set up, but I'd not get anytime off. Do you think it would be possible to set it up for after the first of the year? I could work here until Dec. 14 and take vacation time until I'd start there?" As they walked, the older woman said, "That will put me really short but since we know about this far in advance we can go ahead and hire and have them trained some by the time you leave. I think it maybe able to work out. I just need to run this by the 'boss'." she said. Both females knew that the older woman ran the place, the 'boss' was looking to retire soon, so he let her run things pretty much her way these days. ~~~~~~~~~~~~~ Dixie and Debbie left heading for Hazzard in Debbie's little car. They had it packed tight with their things for their days off and cleaning supplies. Not to mention things that Dixie had packed that weren't going to be used. She had figured to bring a little load everytime she came. On the way she took her cell phone and called Bo's house. Beth answered, "Hello." "Beth, this is Dixie. I thought I'd call and let you know things did work out so I could come in for a couple days. I have a friend with me and we will be by later. Don't you dare go to any trouble. I thought I'd go by the garage and get the keys from LB and see what I'm up against at the garage. With no one staying up there for so long, Lord only knows what Cooter and him have put up there." said Dixie. "Ok, but I expect you both for dinner and there is NO way that place is fit to stay in yet so I also expect you to stay here. No, excuses! The girls will just have to move over." Beth said in a matter of fact tone. Dixie knew Beth was right about the rooms over the garage though they would have made due had Beth not insisted they stay at the farm. "Ok, you have got a deal but don't go to any trouble. Are you feeling OK?" asked Dixie. Beth smiled and replied, "..... Cue Beth

Jesse Duke had been pretty certain as had Luke that he would be sentenced to at least some jail time. He also knew that, though the law read that Luke could have been sentenced to 12 months in jail that it certainly wasn't likely for a small fight at the Boars' Nest. Unknown to Luke, Judge Hardcastle had been one of Jesse's long time fishing buddies. Though Judge Hardcastle had a reputation of being a 'tough cookie', he also knew that there wasn't many a man in Hazzard over 18 that hadn't gotten into at least one fight (though they may not have ended up in Court) at the Boars' Nest. Jesse wasn't anymore happy for Luke than Luke himself was, but the Judge had been fair. Jesse walked out of the Courthouse, before reaching his truck he was met by his nephews, Cooter, Daisy and Dixie. Many questions were aimed at him. Jesse also knew this was entertainment for Boss and Rosco, so he suggested, "We will talk at the garage." as he kept walking. Once at the garage, Jesse explained, "Well, it's not near as bad as it could have been. First off, Trooper Mitchell dropped the charge of Battery on an Officer, so that helped. Luke waved the time frame between this hearing and the sentencing hearing so that it was all done today. Jesse looked at the faces before him. He was sentenced to 14 days which starts today." There was a shocked silence for a minute then, questions from the group were heard as one, "What can we do?" "You are going to do something?" "That's not fair." No one noticed Dixie slip from the crowd as she went out the back door of the garage. Jesse replied, "Luke knew what he was up against going in. The choices he made were his. There is nothing I can do and he got several breaks as he could have gotten 12 months or LONGER if the Troooper hadn't dropped his charge!" ~~~~~~~~~~~~ The next two weeks in Hazzard were a bit strange. Everyone had been use to seeing Bo and Luke together. It was strange for Bo to be 'on his own' though he had other cousins and friends. There was slightly more work to do at the farm so the cousins chipped in to do Luke's share and which took a little longer because it was odd not having Luke around. The same was going on at the garage. Cooter and his father were dividing three peoples shifts between themselves. They even noticed that Dixie wasn't herself though they couldn't imagine why unless it was because she was due to go back to her Mom's in a short while. For Luke it was a very boring two weeks. He managed to read and sleep more than he had probably in all the time he was in High School. Visits were limited though someone was there everytime which in some ways made Luke feel worse when they left. The way Judge Hardcastle had written the commitment Luke would be released on the 14th day at the time he was committed. Luke knew he would be expected home for dinner as Jesse had promised to fix his famous crawdad bisk. All Luke really wanted was a good long hot shower even though it was a very hot August, his own bed as the thin mattress on the steel bunk wasn't doing a thing for him, and maybe a beer, though not neccarssarily in that order. Luke pretty much figured his friends and family would have his next couple of days planned though. 'He--, there plans may be more fun!' he though as he waited impatiently for the clock to hit 11:15 am. Old Bo could hardly wait himself and he was parked outside the Courthouse at 10:30am which Luke had been able to hear the General Lee's powerful engine. This didn't help his patience either! Bo had gotten out of the hot car and sat on its hood leaning up against his windshield to wait in the sun while watching the girls in their summer clothes. Bo loved the heat of summer. Unknown to Luke the others were at the Garage. Luther had went to pick up parts so it was only the younger group as Jesse was home preparing his dinner. Cooter and Dixie were also going to the Dukes for dinner. Dixie had worked the evening before frying chicken and making potato salad which had gone unnoticed by either Cooter or her father as they weren't home. During the two weeks Luke was in jail the T-Shirts and garage hats had returned though today she had on a lavender top with spaghetti straps with a pair of white cut off jean shorts and sandals. She had also fixed her hair though the August heat was threatening to melt everyone. Dixie knew that she felt guilty about Luke going to jail, though there was something very different going on other guilt. She made up her mind if Daisy was willing to let her she really needed to talk Daisy and try to sort out what was going on here. It was 11:00am when Peggy got out an envelope containing Luke's belt, knife, knife case, and some change that Luke had had in his pockets. She unlocked the cell door though the gate to upstairs was still locked. She had Luke sign the property sheet saying he was returned all his property. Then she turned the time clock to 'released' and said, "Well, you've just got a few more minutes. Think you'll be back?" Luke looked at herand grinned, "You know I'd really like to tell you no, but being a Duke in Hazzard County, I just don't think I can say that. They have gotten me twice, I figure they will be trying pretty hard to make anything stick." "Off the record, I'd say your pretty much right. Keep out of trouble!" she said as the clock clicked 11:15am. She punched his booking card and his copy of the release paper, then said, "That's it as she unlocked the gate." Peggy herself was pretty glad he was being released too. She had had little sleep the past two weeks but had racked up on overtime. She only had a couple of log enteries to make before going home.

Beth hadn't heard from Bo since she had told him she was pregnant. She wanted to call but felt he needed his space. Yet, she was feeling very much alone and very much trapped in a world she had not planned. She just sat and looked at the phone hoping it would ring.

Always the early riser, Luke was up with his coffee before dawn. He looked at the clock on the wall seeing that he had several minutes of quiet before the others got up. He picked up the phone dialing Dixie's home number. As Dixie's tried to figure out the annoying sound her alarm clock setting on the dresser across the room went off. She now realized it was the phone. She hurried to grab the phone and said very sleepily, "Hello?" as she checked the clock. 'No, I'm not late. Who in the world would call at 7am?' She thought. She heard the laugh in the other end of the phone as Luke said, "Get the clock." She smiled. "Morning." Debbie came up the hall. She had heard the phone ring too. She gave Dixie a puzzled look as she too wondered who would call that early. "Luke said, "I see it was a good idea to call and make sure you were up." "Yeah, we were up late, but the clock just went off." she said. Debbie said in the background, "Hi, Luke." Luke heard her, "That would be Debbie? Tell her good morning too." Dixie relayed, "He said, 'good morning'. We should get paid the 14th so Debbie is asking for the 14th through the 26th off BEFORE I go ask about the transfer." "I see, you all are plotting to be evil already?" Luke lasughed as Randy walked in seeing him on the phone. Randy said, "Thought you'd lost it there. I KNEW the others weren't up yet." "No, we just know the administration. By the way, we talked last night. We are both off Thrus and Fri. We might go to Hazzard and start cleaning on the garage. (Luke knew she meant the rooms above the garage.)" "Great. I hear we most likely won't be flying anytime soon so you should be able to reach me at home after 6 or I'll have my cell phone if we do go out and I'll try to reach you. I've got to finish getting ready and you have to leave soon so I'll let you go." Luke walked toward his room as he continued, "I love you." "I love you too, BE CAREFUL!" Dixie said. Luke smiled. "You want me to be careful. I'm only dealing with fire NOT inmates!" "It's not the inmates you have to worry about its the other Officers! Besides I get to tell them all where to go and how to get there! Yikes, I do have to hurry. Love ya." "Love you too." Luke hung up and headed off the finish getting ready. He was a little out of sink as he'd been off for the longest he'd been off since he started the jobs several years ago. He really like his job. He wasn't that happy that Dixie had become a Correctional Officer. He worried about her, but she'd been doing this also several years and really seemed to like it, though she was tired of some administration problems. She had told him she had became a Correctional Officer not to side with the 'Rosco's' but to try to make up for them by doing her job well, which largely involved taking care of the inmates. Looking at his watch Luke had to hurry himself. Cue Beth

It was late afternoon as Dixie returned to her small apartment she shared with her friend and co-worker who had talked her into going home to close or open a chapter in her life. She took her small bag out of the little Ford Aspire. She had taken a bit more things but had left what she didn't figure she'd need for a few days at Beth's. Her roommate, Debbie, saw her take one bag out of the car as she walked into the building. 'That's unsual. She always carries ALL she can and then some in a load.' thought Debbie. Debbie met her at the door excited to see how things went. "Wweellllllll???" she asked even before Dixie got in the door. Though Dixie had her left hand in her pocket, she could not help the beaming glow in her eyes, when she smiled at her friend. "You HAD a good time! I TOLD you you WOULD!" replied Debbie talking louder by the minute as she shut the door. "Come on talk to ME! He was there, right?" "Yes, he was and I did have a good time." Dixie said slowly and calmly. "You know how stressed I've been at work and how I said I felt 'burnt out'?" she asked her friend. A bit confussed Debbie said, "Yeaaahhh. AND?" "Well, I think I found a relaxation technique." she still said slowly and calmly. "WHAT? Driving ME crazy? OUT WITH IT already!" said Debbie. Dixie replied, "NO." she paused again, "Oh, see you have to just stretch your arms out ...... like ...... this" As she stretched her hands out in front of her Debbie saw the diamond solitaire golden ring on Dixie's left hand. "I told you! I told you so! If this guy was as special as you said he was I knew things would work!" exclaied Debbie. "So when is the wedding?" Smiling broadly, Dixie replied, "December 21. You have got to put in for the week before tomorrow before I talk to them." "Just what are YOU going to talk to them about?" said Debbie. "I'm going to check into a transfer, but you KNOW if they know that they won't let you have that week off so you have to not say anything about this until you have that week off." said Dixie. Debbie nodded, "Your right." The girls stayed up late that night talking and planning the next few weeks. ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ Luke pulled his truck up in front of a old large house in a small neighborhood near the Smokejumpers base camp. Luke and five of his team rented the entire house which was divided by floors. Luke and the older two guys of the crew shared the top floor while the three younger ones shared the bottom floor. The team members were close and got along well so this arrangement had worked out well. A couple of the guys vehicles were there. Luke took his large bag out of the pickup walked up to the unlocked door and went upstairs. He was immediately greeted by his three dogs at the top of the stairs. 'They will love the farm.' he thought. It took several minutes and much petting to quiet them down. Randy greeted him in the dining room area. "So you did make it back for work in the morning?" Luke smiled, "Sure I did. You had your doubts?" "About Mr. Dependable. No, I really didn't." he joked. "What's been going on?" Luke asked. He was always bunisess first even at home. Smiling to himself, 'that was one thing that would have to change.' "Nothing much. A few small potenially bad fires are going. Nothing looks like we'll get to jump anytime soon. They may use some 'Hotshots' this week though." replied Randy. Luke had entered his room as they talked. He reached over putting his portable radio on charge. He had let its batteries die while he as gone. It would be charged in about 45 minutes for use but would be good by morning. He reached over, turned on the computer, flipped his TV on to the weather channel, and headed for the frig to get a beer as they talked. Luke sat down at his computer chair to check the weather for the week. Randy sat on the foot of his bed. "So how was your week?" the guys all had heard about Luke's family. "Well, everyone showed up. After this week my cousin's son is transfering back closer to home to GA Tech. Bo and Beth are expecting again. Our buddy, Cooter came in too. He brought his sister that I dated just after high school,......" Luke paused, "we're getting married December 21 he said calmly as he broke into a wide smile at the expression on Randy's face. Cue Beth

Amist many protest Jesse and Luke were the only ones who would be at Luke's hearing. They took the pickup into town. Luke informed Jesse, "I've got a couple hundred in my wallet if there's a fine. I'll put it in the glove box." Jesse replied, "I figure the $600 bond will cover the fine, but thanks." The Court was called to order by Sheriff Rosco P. Coltrane. Judge Hardcastle read the charges: "1. Battery and 2. Battery on a Police Officer. Do you understand these charges?" Luke replied, "Yes, Sir." Judge Hardcastle asked if there was anything the Trooper wanted to add. Trooper Mitchell replied, "I'd like to ammend my complaint to just the Battery and drop the Battery on a Police Officer." Judge Hardcastle replied. "Your reason being?" Trooper Mitchell replied, "I have thought about it. This young man didn't willfully hit me. He reacted to me grabbing him during the 'hit' of the fight. As a result, I charged him during the 'heat' of my fight. If I thought he hit me intentionally I'd not drop it." Judge Hardcastle studied the Trooper. "You are sure you want to proceed with only the Battery charge?" Trooper Mitchell replied, "Yes, Sir, I am." Luke was felling just a bit relieved. Judge Hardcastle replied, "So be it. Mr. Duke how do you plead to the charge of battery?" Standing straight and tall Luke replied, "Guilty as charged Your Honor." The Judge asked, "You are entering this plea of your own will? And, you do understand that you COULD be sentenced to up to 12 months in the County jail?" Many a profane thought went through Luke's head in the split second it took him to hoarsely answer, "Yes, Sir." "I'll accept the plead of Guilty. I can set up a sentencing date or you can wave it and we can proceed with sentencing?" stated the Judge. Though he had little choice in the matter, walking into the Courtroom for this hearing had been hard. Luke figured it would be even harder to walk back in again knowing he could spend 12 months (Luke had not figured on it being THAT long) in jail so he replied, "I'll wave." "You are prepared to be sentenced today?" asked the Judge. Rosco's mouth was watering at the thoughts of having Duke in jail for 12 months. "Yes, Sir." Luke replied. Judge Hardcastle asked, "Is there any explaination for your actions or anything you'd like to say in your defense, Mr. Duke." Though Luke knew that if he explained his reason for the fight it might help him. At least it would explain why he started the fight without Tommy so much as saying a word to him, but Luke was bound by Duke loyalty to not tell anyone about what had happened with Tommy and Dixie. Luke replied, "No, Sir." "Well," the Judge paused. He had expected some sort of explaination for Luke's action of starting the fight when Tommy Rogers hadn't even said anything to him. Judge Hardcastle checked Luke's file, "I see you have only been before me on a charge of racing. Due to the Troopers amended complaint, and the fact that you are waving the sentencing hearing which means I don't have to make a third trip over here for this, it saves the County some money and me some time. I am feeling generious." Judge Hardcastle very rarely felt generious. He continued, "Lucas Duke I sentence you to....." he paused, "Fourteen days in the County jail, no credit for time served." Luke was not happy, though compared to the though of 12 months, well, he'd take the 14 days, no problem. So though he was cursing to himself on the inside, he realized he had gotten a huge break and replied, "Thank you, Your Honor." The Judge filled out the commitment which took no more than a minute and told Rosco, "Mr. Duke is in your departments custody for 14 day from today. Make the arrangements." Rosco, replied, "Kew, Kew, Kew. Yes, SIR! I'll get right on that. Yes I will." Luke knew at that moment the only thing worse than facing spending 14 days in jail was listening to Rosco gloat about it.

Bo and the others pretty well figured Luke had planned on getting pretty drunk tonight because though he tried not to let on he was pretty worried about the next day. Jeb was planning on driving tonight so Bo could drink some too. Luke arrived with Dixie. They took seats at a front table near the band. Luke ordered a beer and a Coke. It was still early and the band was finishing setting up. Dixie, Daisy and Kathy were talking at the table. Everyone was enjoying themselves. Jeb was getting requests for a song that Jeb's voice just wasn't deep enough to do it justice. Jeb took a break and asked Luke if he'd do the song. Luke had only drank one beer so he figured he pull it off pretty good so he sang 'White Lightning' by George Jones. Dixie had never heard him sing before. While Jeb had Luke cornered he figured on getting at least one more song out of him. He went right into 'Ballad of Thunder Road' by Marty Robbins Luke didn't have much choice but to sing it also. Bo got a bright idea. He went to talk to Jeb and the others, "You know if we can keep him singing he may not get as drunk as we are think he might be planning on." Jeb replied. "I agree. Got any ideas. " "Yeah, Dixie do you know the 'Night the lights went out in Georgia'?" "Yeah, but what does that have to do with anything?" see if Luke will sing it with you. Between Dixie and the others they kept Luke to busy to drink to much. Surprisingly they all had a great time. ~~~~~~~~~~~ Jesse Duke was always the first up. He made his way to the kitchen to make coffee. He picked up the coffee pot and it was warm. Luke spoke from the living room. "Coffee's fresh." Jesse turned to see Luke setting in a chair in the living room and said, "Oh, OK. Aren't you up kinda early or is it late?" Jesse took his coffee to the living room also. "I guess it's a little of both. I couldn't sleep last night and got tired of trying so I got up." stated Luke. Jesse studied him, "Are you that worried about today?" Luke shrugged his shoulders, "I don't know if I'd say worried or just dreading it." "Pretty sure you know the outcome." questions Jesse. Luke took a drink of coffee before answering. "Like you have told me. They have waited too long to get the chance to put one of us in jail. Why would they pass up the opportunity now?" "Well, you do have a point there. Course Judge Hardcastle does his own thing. He is not in Boss's or anyone elses pocket." Jesse informed. Luke replied, "Well, that is good to know. I talked to Trooper Mitchell the other day. I only told him I had no idea it was him behind me that I did not intend to hit him and I was sorry." "That's good at least he will know it wasn't personal. It may save you some trouble in the future." said Jesse. Jesse's statement did little to make Luke fell better.

The Preacher, Mr. Brown looked over the congregation as he began to open services. Mr. Brown noticed his small church was more crowded than it had been in a long while if it wasn't Christmas or Easter. Mr. Brown had preached these parts the better part of the Dukes lives so he immediately recognized Luke, Daisy, Jeb, Coy, and Vanceand amoung the Dukes was even Cooter Davenport and his sister, Dixie. Mr. Brown opened, "Today I see we are truely blessed. Our small congregation has in its mist several members who have left Hazzard for places far and near. I'd like to welcome all the Dukes and Davenports back into our mists and let them know they are always welcome whenever they find time to be back in Hazzard." Needless to say all the members of the small church looked back and forth to see who the preacher was talking about. Margie Ledbetter found herself rest on one of the dark haired Dukes for just a spell to long. Luke's eyes meet hers and held for a minute, unnoticed by anyone. Her appearance hadn't changed much from High School and it was obvious from her timid actions she was still the very meke mild person who was not Luke Dukes type as a steady girl. After the services Luke told the others, "Ya'll go ahead. Dixie and I need to take care of something." There was no questions as they all figured Luke and Dixie wanted too talk to Mr. Brown. Luke continued, "Here Jeb, trade me rides, my truck holds more than your Mustang." They traded keys and everyone packed into the rides that had brought to church. Luke turned to Dixie, "Would you go tell Mr. Brown we'd like to speak with him when everyone leaves? Then, come on back out here." "Sure, Honey?" she replied. "I'll explain when you get back." he told her. She left to go speak with Mr. Brown. Luke waited patiently in the parking area. He spotted Margis coming out to her car. Luke walked over to her side. "Margie?" "Well. Hello Luke. It's been awhile." she said. "Yeah, you could say that. I think WE have a lot to talk about." he said sternly. She got a scared look on her face. "I don't know what you think WE have to talk about. You sure wasn't looking to talk to me more than once!" she said sarcastically. "You are probably right about that. But, I'd like to speak with you about a FORGED peice of paper." he said quietly. She went to open her car door as she said, "I don't know what you mean." Dixie walked up and caught the exchange taking place. Luke stopped the car door from opening. "Look. I know WHAT you did. I know who my son is. I just want to know WHY?" She stopped dead in her tracks. She gave him a shocked look. 'How could he know about our child? That it was a boy? AND, Who he is??' she thought. She leaned against the car. She could have been knocked over with a feather and asked, "How do you know?" "How exactly could I not know when I ran into him?" replied Luke. "We had a boy? You've seen him. Where?" she asked shocked. "No, I think you have alot more to explain than I do!" Luke insisted. Dixie nudged him. They were beginning to gather a crowd. Luke took the hint, knowing how Hazzard was. "Let's walk back towards the church for a minute." Once out of everyone's hearing distance, Margie said, "I'm sorry. I was scared and I knew you didn't want me and things would have never worked. I did what I thought was best for the baby. I knew if I'd ever seen it, I would have wanted to keep it. I also knew I couldn't support a child and you were....." Luke was hot! "You might have known about YOU. You may have even thought you were doing best for IT! But, let me tell you a thing or two; IT IS part of ME! and IT has a name and fellings too! I HAD A RIGHT TO KNOW AND TO MAKE MY CHOICES!" Luke paused to keep from shouting. "I'll tell you this much, I have meet my son and as long as he wants to know me I'll be there for him. As for YOU, he hasn't asked about you and I'll keep you identity to myself IF that's what you want which is ONE HE-- more than you did for me or MY son! IF you want to know who IT is I suggest you find out on your own." Luke turned to Dixie and they walked back towards the church. Margie never called to him or followed. At the church steps Luke paused. "Give me a second." He took a good deep breath and let it out slowly. He dropped his head slightly taking another deep breath. "I haven't been THAT mad in a long time. I just had to collect my self before going back inside." Dixie placed her arm around his waist. "Take you time. I don't believe that." Luke was still mad but felt better as soon as he looked Dixie in the eyes and saw love and support. "Come on, let's go talk to Mr.Brown about more pleasant things." He hugged her as they walked back into the church. The preacher was gathering his things as they walked back in. "Luke, Dixie come on up here. What is it you wanted to talk to me about? Here have a seat." They all sat down, Dixie let Luke do the talking, as they hadn't talked about even a date let alone much of anything else. "Mr. Brown, I know it has been a long time since either of us have been in regulat attedance here, however, that may change very soon." The preacher looked up questioning. "I have asked Dixie to marry me. We haven't even talked about a date but if it's OK with Dixie, I'd like you to preform the ceremony. I was really pleased with you when, " Luke paused, looking away for a second, and continued, "When Uncle Jesse passed. We are planning to build on part of the farm and return to Hazzard in the future." "Well, now, Luke. I'd be honored. You can ask Bo, I require at least a couple meetings with you both before I'll do the ceremony. I take marriage and its vows very seriously." Luke smiled, "Mr. Brown it may have taken me a long time and a lot of girls to get to this point in my life, but I also take marriage and its vows very seriously." They both looked at Dixie who had been quiet until then. She replied, "I'll tell you both, I have waited to be Luke's wife since I was 15." Mr. Brown seemed satified with the intial meeting. "Ok, when would you all like to set up our next meeting?" Lue smiled and said, "Can we call you this week? I took some time off and I'm not sure about Dixie's schedule. We will talk and give you a call later today or tomorrow and setup a time." "That will be fine and congratulations to you both." said Mr. Brown. One the way back to the farm Luke said, "Now all I have to do is to talk to those two about 'drinking a little' and driving MY truck!" Dixie just smiled at him.

The shine run that Boss had in mind for Luke to take not only would violate his Probation but the fact that it went right through Chickasaw County didn't help a bit that was Sheriff 'Big Ed' Little's territory. If he was caught in Chickasaw County WITH a load of shine Old Luke would blow his Probation from here to he-- and back which meant he'd at the least do two years in prison! Luke knew the minute the word 'anything' came out of his mouth he had made a deal with the 'devil' himself and that's exactly the way Jesse would look at it. Luke had wanted to teach Bo a lesson, but he remembered one Jesse had long preached to him. Pride is a poor Master. Now what would Luke do? Back down or run the load of shine? He had to think quickly!

At the Boar's Nest Jeb walked over to where Sheriff Strate had taken a seat just to make sure there were no more misunderstandings tonight. Being a typical Duke he stuck his foot right in his mouth when he said, "Excuse me Officer." This was a sore spot with Sheriff Strate. She turned on him immediately informing him, "That's Sheriff!" "Oh, well some things in Hazzard have changed for the better. I'm sorry Sheriff, ah", reading the name tag, "Strate. Hey, you're not related to Enos Strate are you?" "As a matter of fact I am why?" she replied sharply. Jeb explained, "Well, I saw the name tag, I grew up here with Enos, and most people with the same name here in Hazzard are related some sorta way." She was still a bit annoyed due to the fact Jeb had called her 'Offficer'. "I'm Enos's cousin. Is there something that I can help you with other than to discuss my family tree?" "Well, as a matter of fact I wanted to discuss my family tree. I wanted to thank you for giving those yooung men a chance to work things out between themselves without taking them to jail. Lord, knows it wouldn't have happened when I was there age." replied Jeb. Sheriff Strate was still a bit confussed. "What does that have to do woth your family tree?" "Well, two of the boys fighting are my cousins boys. I for one am sure glad I didn't have to go tell them about this." replied Jeb. She couldn't resist now, he' gotten her curiosity up, "So which boys and who are your cousin's?" Jeb almost wished he hadn't started this now, but seeing how she was Enos's relative maybe she was as straight as he was, "Well, the two that were out numbered are my cousin's boys. The blonde is Bo, Jr., Bo Duke's son. The dark haired on is Jake Miller, Luke Duke's boy, but that's a long story." She raised her eyebrows and asked, "So you are a Duke?" "Yes, I'm Jeb Duke." he replied. "That's funny I thought I only had one family of Dukes here." she replied. Jeb said, "Well, actually you do but most of us are in for a spell, kind of the first family reunion we've had since Uncle Jesse passed on." "I see. Well, as Sheriff,I hope all the stories I've heard about you Dukes are in the past." she replied. "I do too, Sheriff. Have a good night and thanks again." Jeb said standing to return to Coy and Vance. By this Cooter had also joined them. He had spent the later part of the evening checking out the garage. ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~` Back at the Duke farm. Beth tried to keep her voice down and was almost successful. "Boys, what in the world?" Before they could answer, Luke, who was a light sleeper even though he'd been drinking, heard her from the couch he had claimed as his since the first night. "Beth? What's wrong?" "Come see for yourself. Maybe they will tell you." she replied more than a bit annoyed. Luke pulled on his jeans over his swimming trunks he was sleeping in and came barefooted into the kitchen. "Ok, boys what's up?" he said before he focused on them. They looked at each other. By this time Luke had focused. He wiped his face of sleep and shine, then said, "A fight huh? How'd you manage to come home and not get put in jail? Things have sure changed or I just wasn't lucky. Beth where is that shine I need a little to clean these cuts." He saw the Motherly look in her eyes. "Beth, they are fine. Get me the shine and go on back to bed. You need your rest and don't need to be bothered with a little thing like this." Beth was glad Luke was handling this 'little thing' for her but she replied, "......... Cue Beth

That evening Luke got a wrecker call out near the county line. When he arrived on the scene of the wreck he seen who had called the wreck in, Trooper Mitchell. Luke got out to see how he needed to set up to get the car out of the ditch. He walked over to Trooper Mitchell and asked, "Once I get this out of the road can I talk to you a minute?" "Sure, but let's get traffic clear first." the Trooper insisted. In under five minutes Luke had hooked to the car, pulled it out of the ditch and loaded it on the wrecker. He then pulled to a wide spot just up the road. Walking back to the Trooper, Luke knew what he was going to say, "Trooper Mitchell, I'm not asking for anything, but I'd like to explain the other night. First off, I had no idea that was you behind me and I'd like to apolgize to you for hitting you." "What were you two fighting over anyway?" asked the Trooper. Luke replied, "He did something to a friend of mine. I figured I was more his size." The Trooper gave him a questioning look, "That's a little vague?" Luke replied, "Yes, Sir, it is. I just wanted to apologize to you." Luke turned to walk away when the Trooper called to him. "Luke, I respect the fact you didn't ask me to drop the charges." said Trooper Mitchell. Luke just threw up his hand as he got in the wrecker to take the car back to Cooter's. ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ It was the evening before Luke had to be in Court. Luke had finished up his chores at the farm when he got a wrecker call. He pulled the wrecker into the parking lot of the garage. He reached beside him on the seat and picked up the clean clothes he had taken with him. The plan was he'd shower at the garage and Bo would meet him there then they were going out to the Boars' Nest to hear Jeb's band. Jesse hadn't been happy with this. He hoped Luke wouldn't drink to much before Court in the morning, but he was a man and had to make his own mistakes. Luke arrived just before Bo who was in a hurry. Cooter called from under the hood of a car, "Luke? Are you headed for the shower?" "Yeah," replied Luke. "Hold up. Dixie's in there. Said she'd only be a few minutes." He said. Bo pouted, "Great! Now I'm going to be late." "Me too," said Cooter who was waiting to take Dixie to hear the band and was suppose to pick up Kathy on the way. Then, Cooter suggested, "Since you have to wait for the shower, why don't you bring Dixie, and I'll go with Bo. We'll meet you there and I'll get the wrecker then." "Why not. But you owe me big time if I get a call!" replied Luke to Cooter's back which was headed to the General Lee. Dixie came out brushing her hair. "Where are Bo and Cooter?" "They went on. Give me a second to shower and we'll go." he said as he headed to the shower. When Luke returned, from the shower, Dixie was ready but asked, "Can we talk a minute before we go?" "Sure." replied Luke knowing where this was going. Dixie looked into Luke's eyes, "What are you going to do tomorrow?" Luke had been right, "Well, I'm going to go to Court and do the only thing I can do, plead guilty." "Have you lost all your senses?" she asked. Luke smiled back at her, "There was maybe fifty people there that night. They all saw ME start it. What else can I do? Besides, if I fight this it would probably be worse. Rosco and JD have wanted this for far too long not to take advantage of it now." Dixie suddenly realized something. "You are expecting to go to jail aren't you?" Luke just looked at her for a second before answering, "Why do you say that?" "Because when you thought you'd be fined you worked you tail off to make extra money for the fine." she paused. "You haven't done that this time." Luke had to admit she had seen right through him that had been his thoughts almost to the tee. He just shrugged his shoulders and said, "Come on, let's go have some fun tonight. Jeb has threated to try to talk me into singing." The effort to change the subjest worked. "You?" "Yeah." he said getting into the wrecker.

Bo deep down knew why Luke wouldn't leave he alone about this. He knew Luke cared which is why he made up the story to get to take Bo to the Doctor instead of letting Jesse take him and maybe corner Bo before he was ready to talk about this mess. Good ol' Doc Applebee fixed Bo up in no time placing a cast from his elbow to his fingers. He gave Luke his bill for $25 and told Luke to tell Jesse they could 'work out a trade' if Jesse wanted to and that Jesse would know what that meant. Luke also knew what it meant, Jesse's shine was a better, cheaper antiseptic and pain killer than anything else Doc could buy from those fancy suppliers. "I'll tell him Doc." Doc reminded, "Bo when the swelling starts going down that cast will get loose. If it gets too loose it isn't helping so come on back by and I'll change it." Bo said, "Yes, Sir." and thenlooked at the floor. Luke went by Cooter's just because he said he was and didn't want to lie. Cooter spotted the white cast on Bo's arm, "Whoa, what happened to you some angry Father get a'hold of ya?" leave it to Cooter. "No, Bo, here took out his anger at me on the Oak dresser in our room." replied Luke. "Now, fellas, I know Dukes don't fight Dukes but ain't that takin' it a bit to far there Bo?" asked Cooter. Bo replied, "Yeah, I guess it was." Bo continued to look at the floor. "Well, Cooter we just stopped in for a minute. I've got to get Jesse's truck back." said Luke. Cooter said, "I almost forgot to tell you Dixie might be for a spell. Dad is scared to have a daughter around to look after." Cooter laughed. Luke replied, "Just tell him to call Uncle Jesse. If he can raise Daisy, I'm sure he can help him!" Luke and Bo drove back to the farm.

Luke asked none too calmly, "Beth is WHAT?" Luke wanted to shout. "Would you keep it down? Don't you think I have enough problems without Jesse finding at right now?" "Oh, Yeah. You have problems alright! For starters, just how in blue blazes do you expect to support her and a baby? She wanted college. You and ME were going to run the NASCAR circuit. You have got to be the biggest fool I know. You get careless and now you have involved all of us in YOUR mistake. Not to mention there is a" he lowered his voice, "ba - by that didn't ask for you to make a mistake that is deserves to have what it needs and wants. Bo you can't live on Love. I know Beth she's a good girl but now she'll end up not getting to do anything she has worked all this time to do." Luke exploded. Had Bo's hand not hurt so much he would have liked to have decked Luke on the spot. He had just voiced everything that had been going through his own head. "Bo just what do you intend to do about this? And I'll remind you running away is NOT an option." asked Luke as he stared daggers through his cousin. "Well for one thing, running away from it hadn't entered my mind. I really love her, you know?" Luke looked him dead in the eye, "I really hope you do. Forever is a long time to stay with someone you don't!" "Luke you are not helping here." stated Bo as he brought his hand up to look closer at it. "Bo there's nothing I can do to help you on this except get you downstairs and let you tell Jesse about your wrist so Doc can fix it up." Luke said studing the badly bruised swollen hand. "For now, I'll even let you get away with telling Jesse that you were mad at me and hit the dresser instead of me." Boshoock his head, "You know you are all heart." Cue Beth

Luke didn't do being locked in a 'cage' well and he was furious with Bo. He began to pace. As late as it was, even if Daisy called Uncle Jesse it would be morning before he could get themout of here. 'GREAT!' thought Luke. 'This was going to be a LONG night!'