Luke's First Love

[DixieDavenport]

Monday Morning Duke Farm

The familiar sound of Mark's Firebird coming up the driveway was heard as Jesse was clearing the morning dishes. "Luke, Mark is here." Jesse called, "Didn't I tell you this was not going to be an everyday thing?" Jesse questioned as Luke picked up his lunch.

"Yes, Sir you did. I didn't know he was coming by." said Luke over his shoulder as he headed out the back door. To Luke's surprise Mark was alone. Trying not to sound as disappointed as he was he said, "Hey, Mark. Didn't know you were coming by."

Mark replied, "I really didn't know it either. It was a spur of the moment thing. Robin spent the night at Kathy's last night. I wanted to talk to you." Mark paused. "So what is up between you and Robin?"

Luke replied, "Well, I'd like to get to know her better."

"Dad approves?" Mark questioned.

"Well, I don't know if 'approves' is the right word but he's not objecting. Does it both you?" asked Luke.

Mark thought before answering, "It's just a little weird. I mean we have always talked about our dates and I'm not so sure I want the graffic details of your dates with my sister." Mark shuttered. "Is that why you have been so secreative about who you were checking out?"

Luke grinned, "Like you said it's a bit weird. I wasn't sure how you'd feel. I didn't know if your Dad would even let me call her. Mostly I wasn't sure she was interested in me. I don't want anything to happen to our friendship no matter what goes down between Robin and I. By the way, your Dad made it perfectly clear we are not "dating" anytime real soon, if that helps you."

"Its just of all the girls in High School I didn't imagine you getting interested in my sister." Mark tried to explain further.

Luke looked at Mark and said very seriously, "Had you ask me a two months ago if I'd want to talk to Robin I'd probably said Robin who! I've been over to your house many times and Robin was there but she was you 'little sister'. The first day of school, she got on the bus, it was like seeing someone I'd never seen before." Luke paused, "You don't have to worry about the 'graffic details' of our 'dates' if and when they happen. Where Robin is concerned, I have given up 'kissing and telling'.

Surprised Mark looks at Luke, "Do tell."

"Its just your Dad has heard some of the wild stories about me. He made it clear he did not want Robin's reputation in question." explained Luke.

"So are you telling me that all those stories are lies?" questioned Mark.

"I'm just saying some were blown out of proportion." stated Luke as they pulled into the High School.

[DixieDavenport]

*** NOTE ****

In the interest of getting this story to the interesting parts I need to move the time frame ahead some. The narrator will give brief run throughs of the time spans that are skipped.

NARRATOR:

In the next few weeks Luke and Robin got to know each other. Talking in school, going out for pizza after the football games, Luke (and his cousins) accompanied Robin's family and friends to the skating rink several times. Bill and Brenda kept a close watch on them making sure they didn't get too close. They became more comfortable around each other often holding hands or skating together. The Hazzard Cougars had won 9 of their 10 games thus far with one more game to be played away on Friday night. As luck would have it the Hazzard Cougars take on once again the Placid Beavers with a record of 8 wins, 1 lose of their 10 game season. They had only lost to the Cougars. The Beavers wanted to win the District Championship. Their only chance would be to beat Hazzard to get to a play off game since both teams would have a 9 and 1 record SHOULD they beat Hazzard.

"Stay tuned to WPCD live at Beaver Stadium, the Placid Beavers take on the Hazzard Cougars. I talked with the Beaver Coach today -- the Beavers are ready for battle to prevent the Cougars from taking home the District Championship tonight." said WPCD Announcer.

[DixieDavenport]

Sharon Jones -- (New Character) Hazzard Cheerleader -- Mark recently started dating.

The loud speaker came to life at Hazzard High School. "All football players, cheerleaders, and band members report to the gym at this time." This announcement now took almost half of the students out of class.

The Hazzard elite were a bit loud as they hurriedly made their way to the gym. Two buses were reserved to transport them to Beaver Stadium. The band was assigned to one bus. The football team and cheerleaders the other. As luck would have it all the cheerleaders seemed to be dating someone on the ball team. As the Hazzard Coach of many years entered the bus he took in the seating arrangements with the couples paired off. He noticed Luke and Robin in one back seat. Mark and Sharon in the other back seat. Cooter and Kathy one seat up from the back seat. The Hazzard Coach shook his head. "Ok ladies to the front of the bus. Gentlemen to the back of the bus. Equipment in the middle of the bus. Now!"

The announcement was met with Boo's, and pleas of, "Coach, come on." from the whole bus.

"This is our last game. I want your minds on the game at hand. The bus is not moving until its done." Thankfully he had a great bunch of kids and though disappointed in took only minutes for them to comply. Coach took the front seat infront of the cheerleaders and they were off.

Most of Hazzard followed the team once school was out and choirs done.

~~~~~~~~~~~~

"This is WPCD coming from you live from Beaver Stadium. The clock has 1 minute left in the second quarter. Our score is 14 - 14. This has been a real battle between the number 1 team Hazzard Cougars and the number 2 team Placid Beavers. If Hazzard wins tonight they take home the District Championsship, if Placid wins tonight both teams will have the same record and there will be a play off game between the two to decide the Champion. Both teams have a lot riding on tonight."

Game announcer 1: "Yes, they do. If you joined us for the first game this season between these two teams they were playing as if their lives depended on a win. Tonight isn't any different."

Game announcer 2: "In case you don't remember folks, Placid Beaver's Defensive End, Ralph Green, racked up an unheard of amount of penalities in that game trying to stop Hazzard Sophmore Luke Duke."

Radio Announcer: "I remember that game. It surely seemed as thought Ralph Green and Luke Duke were taking the game really seriously."

Game Announcer 1: "It doesn't seem much has changed tonight except the score is a little closer."

Game Announcer 2: "That's right Placid Beavers have hd the most penalties. 3 going to Ralph Green for Ruffing the Passer."

~~~~~~~~~~~

Placid Stadium has the cheerleaders changing room next to the football players locker room. The Placid cheerleaders take the field first before all the players are off the field. Hazzard's cheerleaders are waiting their turn near the gate when the players exit the field. Since the last play had been on the visitor's side of the field the beavers exited the field on the same end as Hazzard. Robin is close the gate to see Luke as he exits the field. Luke comes off the field, grabs Robin spins her around and says, "Knock them dead!" and quickly seats her back on the ground.

As he had swung her around Ralph was walking up to them. When Luke had placed her on the ground and started for the locker room he heard Ralph say to Robin, "Nice As--!"

Mark was right behind Ralph as he said this. In one fluid motion Mark and Luke grabbed Ralph throwing him up the side of the field house none too gentlely! They were soon surrounded by the Hazzard Coach, several security guards and deputies that were near by. It took several minutes for the Coach, Luke and Mark to explain the Hazzard lesson in manners. The deputies and security officers advised to keep these guys apart and they escorted Ralph to his Coach.

~~~~~~~~

The events at half time had only added fuel to the fire for the rest of the game. Ralph Green and Luke Duke were at each others throats the whole third quarter.

3 minutes left in the 4th quarter -- score is 21- 21, Hazzards ball. Hazzard lines up. Luke knew Green was after him so mark would carry the ball. Cooter snapped the ball to Luke who handed off to Mark unseen. Luke pretended to carry the ball, most of the Hazzard team followed Luke to make it look good. The whole Placid defense tackled Luke knocking all the wind out of him. Luke heard the snap, pop as he hit the ground. The Placid Beavers were taking their time getting off Luke who didn't have the ball, while Mark made the touchdown. The Hazzard Coach called for a time out as he headed to the pile of Beavers on top of his Quarterback.

Announcer 1: "Touchdown Cougars! The score is 28-21!"

Announcer 2: "Time out Cougars. Looks like we may have an injury on the field."

Robin had been voted Captian of Hazzard's Cheerleaders. Taking in the events of the last play she said without taking her eyes off the pile of guys on top of Luke."Number 3!" They started the cheer as rehearsed.

"Luke are you Ok?" asked the Coach.

Finding out that he could still inhale air was a refreshing discovery. Luke gasped, "Yeah, .... need to get a drink..... I'm fine...."

Luke made his way to the bench where he got the "water bottle' he'd been sipping on. He drank a long drink, followed by another which emptied the container. "I'm fine, Coach, really. I need to finish this."

The Coach nodded toward the field.

Luke took his place in the huddle.

Mark and Cooter asked, "Are you OK there Luke?"

Looking a bit out of sorts, Luke replied, "No, but I've got to finish this. Guys I can't take another hit like that. Mark I'm handing the ball to you. I need you guys to help me even the score between me and that Defensive End. As soon as Mark has the ball and is away I need anyone not looking out for him to hit that guy with all your worth with me." The rest of the team was also tried of the Placid Beavers moves and nodded their agreement.

Cooter snapped the ball to Luke he handed it to Mark who went to the left side of the field. It appeared Luke had faked the ball. All of Placid started towards the right side of the field. Luke and the rest of the guys hit Ralph Green with all they had as Mark scored the final touchdown making the score 35-21. A destinct pop was heard as Ralph hit the ground. The buzzer sounded the end of the game. Final score 35-21! The Hazzard Cougars made their way to the locker room as Placids Coaching staff made their way to the fallen player. Minutes later the ambulance was called out to the field. Ralph Green left the field by ambulance. In the locker room away from the Coach mark and Cooter asked Luke what he'd meant by the remark earlier that he was not OK. All Luke would admit to is that he'd taken a hard hit to the chest and probably bruised a few ribs.

[DixieDavenport]

____________________

The Hazzard Cougars left Placid County with the District Championship while Ralph Green was having his right are placed in a plaster cast from the shoulder down. Being the Hazzard Coaches first Championship he was very pleased with his team so on the way home he was giving them a little slack on the seating arrangements. Robin sat with Luke in the back of the bus. Cooter and Kathy had the other back seat, while Mark and Sharon were in front of them. They made one stop at a pop shop. Everyone left the bus to use the restrooms and or get something to eat or drink. Most of the Hazzard bunch had returned to the bus, but Robin and Kathy had went to the restroom and were now at the counter. Outside a group of Placid fans who had known Ralph Green was hurt in the game pulled in seeing the Hazzard students. The Hazzard Coach shuffled everyone outside onto the bus. He realized that he had two cheerleaders inside. Looking up he called for a couple of his team who he knew he could count on. "Luke, Mark, Cooter come on. The rest of you stay on the bus." he said as the four went back in the store. Robin and Kathy were getting their change as the Coach said, "To the bus, now!" The girls were walked to the bus in the middle of the guys and the Coach. Heading home to Hazzard in the dark Robin got her first kiss and second. Occasionally, when Luke moved wrong his bruised ribs would tell him about it. It was all he could do not to let on to Robin or anyone else. Robin turned in the seat putting her feet in seat as she turned to Luke putting her arms around his neck. When she leaned towards Luke she put the weight of her upper body across Luke's ribs. Luke gasped slightly while gritting his teeth as he raised her off his ribs. "Luke? I'm sorry are you OK?"

Trying not to let Robin know how much pain he was in said, "Yeah, that last hit was a pretty good one. I think that I bruised a couple ribs." He said easing her back onto his chest.

"If you were hurt in the game why did you keep playing?" Robin asked.

Luke motioned fr her to be quieter. "I'm not going to give that Defensive End the satisfaction of knowing that they did hurt me."

Robin asked, "What if you're really hurt?"

Luke brushed her hair back, "Really, I'll be OK."

Robin looked at him with tears in her eyes.

"Look, if I'm still hurting when we get to the school. I'll say something to either Coach or Jesse. OK?" said Luke, hoping to either feel better in Hazzard or that Robin would forget what he'd said.

Being a typical fifteen year old female, Robin responded when, "Promise?"

s***! thought Luke. He sighed, painfully, he might add, "Yeah, I promise. Now let's at least enjoy the rest of the way home if I'm going to have to be up all night."

"Why are you going to be up all night?" asked Robin naively.

"Because, I don't see me getting out of at least seeing Doc Applebee, if I open my mouth." said Luke with a look of dread.

Being a bit wiser than her years, Robin questioned, "Would you rather I open my mouth?"

Luke started to reply no, then had a better thought, "Only if you do it now." He said as he pulled her closer for a kiss. The conversation was dropped for now but not forgotten on Robin's part.

~~~~~~~~~~~~

Jesse and the others had been to the game and met the bus at Hazzard High with the rest of the parents. The bus unloaded slowly with each player and cheerleader having to sort through to find their equipment. Being in the back of the bus Robin and Luke were pretty much last. Robin grabbed her bag and started to turn to the front of the bus as Luke reached into the seat to pick up his gear. Setting for past hour or so had not made Luke's ribs feel any better. As a matter of fact, it had made him quiet stiff. When he picked up the heavy football gear the added weight accompanied with the position he was standing caused a sharp severe pain to travel through out his ribs. Robin was close enough to hear Luke swear softly. She stopped, turned around, reaching for the football gear. Luke was leaning on the side of the bus seat trying to get his breath back. He managed to hoarsely say, "I got it."

Robin raised her eye brows, "Let me get it or I blow the whistle right now."

Knowing that he was losing this discussion but determined that he would not let her carry his gear off the bus, he met her half way. He released his grip on the gear and motioned for her to continue to the front of the bus. "Leave it. I'll send someone back for it."

Taking the small concession, Robin headed off the bus with Luke behind her. When Luke exited Daisy broke and ran to give him a congratulations hug. Luke crossed his arms, noticeably bending, with his arms out in front of himself to block her attempt at the hug. This jester when unnoticed by Jesse and the Coach at the same time. Before Daisy could figure out the reason for Luke's reaction they were joined by the Coach and Jesse. Both asking at the same time, "Luke. What's wrong?"

Looking defeated, Luke sighed.

Both men now looked to Robin. As she began to explain, the small group was joined by Mark, Cooter, and Robin's parents. "He said that last hit he took before the final play bruised his ribs..."

Robin's explanation was cut short by the Coach insisting that he see Luke in the gym where they would be in the light. "Shall we?" He said as he pulled out his school keys and motioned Luke toward the door.

"Might as well, it really doesn't look like I'm going to get out of it." fumed Luke.

Luke and the Coach were joined by most of the team, cheerleaders and their families who had not already left for home. Inside with the lights on the Coach asked to see Luke in his office. Luke, Jesse and the Coach entered the office since they now had half the County with them. "OK, let's have it. Off with the shirt."

Luke sighed. He untucked his shirt carefully and unbuttoned it. The Coach looked at Luke, then to Jesse, then reached for the phone. "Bonnie Lou, get me Dr. Applebee." the connection made the Coach continued, "Doc, this is Hazzard Coach Shaffron. I got a player that was hurt in tonights’’ game. I'm just now finding this out. It looks like he at the very least bruised several ribs pretty badly." The Coach listened to Doc's reply, "I'll have him right over." again listening. "Yes, Jesse is here. The player is Luke Duke. Thanks Doc." he said hanging up.

Jesse asked, "Do you care to tell us why you didn't let us know you were hurt until now?"

"It's just that this is not how I planned to spend the rest of the night after winning the Championship, besides, I didn't want to give that guy the satisfaction of knowing I was hurt." said Luke as he buttoned his shirt. He did not bother to tuck it in.

Jesse scolded, "Luke, continuing to play after you were hurt could have been dangerous. Pride can be a good thing and it can be a very bad thing."

"Yes, Sir." Luke said. "I need to get Mark or Cooter to grab my stuff off the bus and since this is going to take awhile. Can at least walk Robin out to the truck?"

Jesse smiled, "Coach, at least we know it's not terminal! he's still thinking about girls. Yes, but be careful and don't keep Doc waiting."

Looking slightly happier, "Yes, Sir. Thanks." He said as he hurried out of the office. Expecting to see his family and hopefully Robin's and maybe Cooter, Luke was surprised to see the gym filled with friends and neighbors. Slightly embarrassed for being the center of attention, Luke said, "I'm OK, really. Mark can you grab my stuff off the bus? Come on." he said putting his arm around Robin's shoulders. They headed to her parents truck and walking by the doors to the back of it. "See what I was trying to avoid."

"Sorry, but you are hurt?" Robin half stated and half questioned as she wasn't privileged to be there when the Coach checked Luke out.

Luke looked her in the eye, "I've been better. Coach called Doc, we're heading over there as soon as Mark gets my things and I tell you goodnight."

"So Coach figures your ribs are bruised?" questioned Robin.

Deciding he'd better level with her, "No, I think they both are thinking about like I have began to....." Luke paused. He was telling a small lie. He had been pretty sure when he hit the ground that at least one rib had broken. "I figure that I'll be lucky to have one broken rib from this."

"Luke,...." she said through tear filled eyes. He leaned over and kissed her.

"I'll be fine. It's not the end of the world." He said as her tears betrayed her, trailing down her cheeks. "I've got to get going, Jesse's waiting.

"Call me when you get home?" asked Robin.

"You know I can't call you tonight. It's after midnight now." stated Luke. "I'll call you in the morning. What time will you be up?"

Robin replied, "I'll be up early. If I sleep that is."

Luke again kissed her goodnight not realizing her father had walked up to them. "I'll call you first thing in the morning. Now, go get some rest."

Robin replied, also not knowing her father was there, "I just wish you could call me tonight....."

Bill said, "That might can be arranged this once, if you let him get going. Jesse and the Coach are waiting."

Robin turned as red as a beet.

Luke asked, Are you sure it's OK. It will be really late."

Bill said, "I know. But I also know she'll be up all night unless you do call. One short call."

Luke and Robin both thanked her father and Luke headed off to met Jesse and the Coach.

~~~~~~~~~~~

[DixieDavenport]

As Luke dreaded hearing, he was right. A couple ribs were broken, a couple cracked, and most were bruised. Being an old country doctor, Dr. Applebee taped his ribs to stabilize them. Luke now was sure he had been in less pain before they were taped. Being that he was taped from just below his arms to almost his waist, standing was the least painful position he was able to find. It was going to be a long 4-6 weeks. Doc had suggested that he may want to try sleeping setting up. As Luke and Jesse came out of Doc's office side of his house, they saw Jesse's pick up was full of teens. Of course Bo, Coy, Vance, Jeb and Daisy were there, but so was Cooter and Mark. Jesse figured it would do Luke some good to have some company tonight. He'd banged up his own ribs a time or too and knew it was by far the most painful and annoying injury he had ever had. "Hey, there fellas." called Uncle Jesse. "How'd you all like to apend the rest of the night at the farm?"Of course they were all for it. Luke managed to get in the front of the truck without too much difficulty. At the farm Jesse suggested that the boys gather pillows and balnkets and sleeping bags and 'camp' out in the living room. Luke had already made plans for Jesse's recliner.

Looking at the clock, it was 2am when Luke picked up the phone and headed for the farthest end of the house that the cord would allow. He was glad his buddies were spending the night but between them and his cousins it sounded like the whole Hazzard team was in the living room. He dialed the number to Robin's.

It rang once short ring when Robin answered, "Hello?"

"That was quick." said Luke.

"I know Dad said you could call but I hope the phone didn't wake them. Are yo OK?" she asked worriedly.

"Yeah, I'll be good as new in a few weeks." he said playing down the injury.

Talking quietly, Robin asked, "So what did Doc say."

Playfully, Luke avoided her question, "That you can get some rest tonight."

"Luke!" she exclaimed, "Seriously?"

"Ok, remember me telling you I'd have been lucky to only have a broken rib? Well, I wasn't lucky." said Luke.

Trying to drag out more information, Robin continued to press, "Luke? What exactly does that mean?"

"As Doc put it, I did it right. A couple are borken most of the rest bruised. He taped me up for the next few weeks." Luke continued, leaving out quiet a bit of what Doc had said.

"So you feel better now?" she figured that Doc would have treated him to make things better.

About this time Jesse came trhough the house before turning in, "Luke if you need anything wake me. OK?" he said extending his hand which held a quart jar of his finest shine. "They have one. This one is yours. I've been there. You might feel the need to sip on this over the next few days. By the way, it may be a bad time, but you all played a good game. Congradulations on the Championship."

Seeing the love in his Uncles eyes. Knowing he could do no more to make things better, he had settled for trying to at least make Luke comfortable. Luke said, "Thanks, Uncle Jesse......for ah, everything." Luke paused letting Jesse get down the hall a bit. "Ok, I'm back. By the way if you all miss Mark, he's here. I think Jesse figured I'd be up awhile so at least I'd have company with Mark and Cooter and the others here."

Robin smiled, "I feel left out."

"Why should you? I'm talking to you not them." replied Luke. Luke took a pretty large drink from the Mason jar. "Jesse should have been a doctor."

Confused Robin asked, "Why do you say that?"

Darn!!! Luke thought. He'd put his foot in his mouth. "Let's just say, Jesse brought me something to make me feel better. I'll have to explain that later." Looking at the clock, it was getting really late. "It's getting late. I'll let you go get some rest. I think I'm camping out in the recliner. Doc and Jesse think I'll be more comfortable there. I think the guys have snuck a deck of cards in, in case we can't sleep. Uncle Jesse would through a fit if he suspected it."

Robin smiled, "I can't see Uncle Jesse ever getting mad. He's so sweet."

"Darlin', I love my Uncle Jesse, but he can be anything but sweet when riled! i know, I've been the cause before." stated Luke.

Robin said, "I can't imagine that either."

Taking another drink, Luke shook his head. How could she live in Hazzard all her life and be so innocent? "unfortunenately, if you stick around us both long enough you'll see. I'm going to let you go before your Dad wakes up, then I won't be able to call anymore."

"OK. Will you call tomorrow?" she asked.

"Sure, I will call. Maybe if Jesse brings home Mark, I'll ride over. Goodnight."

"Night, Luke."

Luke hung up, went to his room and put on a pair of shorts to try to get a little more comfortable. He took his jar with him to the recliner. Trying to get settled was very painful. He got settled then took several more drinks of shine. Finally after not moving for several minutes the pain in his ribs was giving way to the effects of the shine.

Cooter saw what was up, "Boy, must be nice to get hurt and have an excuse to get drunk."

Luke opened his eyes, "I'll trade you places..... and I'm no where near drunk."

Seeing Luke was not in a very playful mood, "Sorry, Luke. No thanks, I've heard ribs can be a @$@^$^(@!!!" Cooter said softly so Jesse would not hear him.

"I'll vouch for that." siad Luke. "So what do you all have in mind to make me feel better?"

Cooter nugded Bo, who smiled. "Be right back!" They said excitedly.

Luke looked at Mark.

Mark replied, "Haven't a clue. Did you get Robin off the phone?"

"Yeah, she answered on the first ring hoping it didn't wake your Dad. I also told her you were here so they'd know." said Luke.

Coy, and Vance were almost asleep. Bo placed his finger in front of his mouth the keep the others quiet. He and Cooter handed out some 'dirty books' they had gotten that the other guys had not seen. Luke, Cooter, and Mark talked aout the game for awhile being they were more interested in "real" girls at this point than the girly books. Luke finally had enought shine and gotten somewhat comfortable. Sleep finally found him at almost dawn.

[DixieDavenport]

As Luke dreaded hearing, he was right. A couple ribs were broken, a couple cracked, and most were bruised. Being an old country doctor, Dr. Applebee taped his ribs to stabilize them. Luke now was sure he had been in less pain before they were taped. Being that he was taped from just below his arms to almost his waist, standing was the least painful position he was able to find. It was going to be a long 4-6 weeks. Doc had suggested that he may want to try sleeping setting up. As Luke and Jesse came out of Doc's office side of his house, they saw Jesse's pick up was full of teens. Of course Bo, Coy, Vance, Jeb and Daisy were there, but so was Cooter and Mark. Jesse figured it would do Luke some good to have some company tonight. He'd banged up his own ribs a time or too and knew it was by far the most painful and annoying injury he had ever had. "Hey, there fellas." called Uncle Jesse. "How'd you all like to spend the rest of the night at the farm?"Of course they were all for it. Luke managed to get in the front of the truck without too much difficulty. At the farm Jesse suggested that the boys gather pillows and blankets and sleeping bags and 'camp' out in the living room. Luke had already made plans for Jesse's recliner.

Looking at the clock, it was 2am when Luke picked up the phone and headed for the farthest end of the house that the cord would allow. He was glad his buddies were spending the night but between them and his cousins it sounded like the whole Hazzard team was in the living room. He dialed the number to Robin's.

It rang once short ring when Robin answered, "Hello?"

"That was quick." said Luke.

"I know Dad said you could call but I hope the phone didn't wake them. Are you OK?" she asked worriedly.

"Yeah, I'll be good as new in a few weeks." he said playing down the injury.

Talking quietly, Robin asked, "So what did Doc say."

Playfully, Luke avoided her question, "That you can get some rest tonight."

"Luke!" she exclaimed, "Seriously?"

"Ok, remember me telling you I'd have been lucky to only have a broken rib? Well, I wasn't lucky." said Luke.

Trying to drag out more information, Robin continued to press, "Luke? What exactly does that mean?"

"As Doc put it, I did it right. A couple are borken most of the rest bruised. He taped me up for the next few weeks." Luke continued, leaving out quiet a bit of what Doc had said.

"So you feel better now?" she figured that Doc would have treated him to make things better.

"Well, ...." Luke was not planning on telling Robin that he definitely did not fell better. Fortunely, about this time Jesse came through the house before turning in, "Luke if you need anything wake me. OK?" he said extending his hand which held a quart jar of his finest shine. "They have one. This one is yours. I've been there. You might feel the need to sip on this over the next few days. By the way, it may be a bad time, but you all played a good game. Congradulations on the Championship."

Seeing the love in his Uncles eyes. Knowing he could do no more to make things better, he had settled for trying to at least make Luke comfortable. Luke said, "Thanks, Uncle Jesse......for ah, everything." Luke paused letting Jesse get down the hall a bit. "Ok, I'm back. By the way if you all miss Mark, he's here. I think Jesse figured I'd be up awhile so at least I'd have company with Mark and Cooter and the others here."

Robin smiled, "I feel left out."

"Why should you? I'm talking to you not them." replied Luke. Luke took a pretty large drink from the Mason jar. "Jesse should have been a doctor."

Confused Robin asked, "Why do you say that?"

Darn!!! Luke thought. He'd put his foot in his mouth. "Let's just say, Jesse brought me something to make me feel better. I'll have to explain that later." Looking at the clock, it was getting really late. "It's getting late. I'll let you go get some rest. I think I'm camping out in the recliner. Doc and Jesse think I'll be more comfortable there. I think the guys have snuck a deck of cards in, in case we can't sleep. Uncle Jesse would through a fit if he suspected it. Cards are not allowed at all in the house."

Robin smiled, "I can't see Uncle Jesse ever getting mad. He's so sweet."

"Darlin', I love my Uncle Jesse, but he can be anything but sweet when riled! I know, I've been the cause before." stated Luke.

Robin said, "I can't imagine that either."

Taking another drink, Luke shook his head. How could she live in Hazzard all her life and be so innocent? "Unfortunenately, if you stick around us both long enough you'll see. I'm going to let you go before your Dad wakes up, then I won't be able to call anymore."

"OK. Will you call tomorrow?" she asked.

"Sure, I will call. Maybe if Jesse brings home Mark, I'll ride over. Goodnight."

"Night, Luke."

Luke hung up, went to his room and put on a pair of shorts to try to get a little more comfortable. He took his jar with him to the recliner. Trying to get settled was very painful. He got settled then took several more drinks of shine. Finally after not moving for several minutes the pain in his ribs was giving way to the effects of the shine.

Cooter saw what was up, "Boy, must be nice to get hurt and have an excuse to get drunk."

Luke opened his eyes, "I'll trade you places..... and I'm no where near drunk."

Seeing Luke was not in a very playful mood, "Sorry, Luke. No thanks, I've heard ribs can be a @$@^$^(@!!!" Cooter said softly so Jesse would not hear him.

"I'll vouch for that." siad Luke. "So what do you all have in mind to make me feel better?"

Jeb nugded Bo, who smiled. "Be right back!" They said excitedly.

Luke looked at Mark.

Mark replied, "Haven't a clue. Did you get Robin off the phone?"

"Yeah, she answered on the first ring hoping it didn't wake your Dad. I also told her you were here so they'd know." said Luke.

Coy, and Vance were almost asleep. Bo placed his finger in front of his mouth to keep the others quiet. He and Jeb handed out some 'dirty books' they had gotten that the other guys had not seen. Luke, Cooter, and Mark talked about the game for awhile being they were more interested in "real" girls at this point than the girly books. Luke finally had enought shine and gotten somewhat comfortable. Sleep finally found him at almost dawn.

[DixieDavenport]

NARRATOR: Being that Luke was not to lift or strain himself for several weeks, Bo got his opportunity to help Jesse quiet a bit. Luke, who Jesse felt was not up to walking up to the stills, spent his evenings with his younger cousins while Jesse and Bo were at the still. He also managed to talk to Robin most every evening.

One evening Luke joined Jesse on the front porch. Everyone one else was occupied in the house. It had been a couple of weeks since the last football game and Luke was still dealing with his ribs being taped. He gently sit on the porch swing beside his Uncles rocker. "Uncle Jesse, I know you know Robin has become something special to me. I had a long talk with her father before I was able to call her. I don't know if you know this, but I gave him my word on some things. He told me that he would take my word only if I 'spit and shook' on it. Meaning he asked for my word as a moonshiner.........I, ah, didn't know ..... I mean Bill doesn't ...... how would he know?......"

Jesse smiled letting Luke know he knew what Luke was trying too ask. "Luke, as far as I know Bill has never dealt in shine. He, also, has lived in Hazzard all his life. Our families go pretty far back, Bill knows moonshine has been a way of life for us. He probably suspected you are involved and was testing you to see if he was correct. It also pretty easy to figure that most people here know what is expected if you give your word as a moonshiner. Luke, if you gave your word to Bill as a moonshiner, you had better da--- well keep it. Should you not, you will have Bill, myself, and every moonshiner in the tri state to deal with. Got it?" explained Jesse.

"Yes, sir! I knew that when I did give him my word." said Luke.

Jesse questioned, "Luke, what exactly did you give your word to?"

A little embarrassed, Luke answered, "That I would not hurt Robin, nor let her be hurt or her reputation be in question as long as I'm around."

"Luke, that may take some doing there...." Jesse said being interupted by Luke.

"I know that. I'm willing." explained Luke.

"I hope you realize the consequences that may go along with that?" questioned Jesse.

"Yes, Sir, I believe I do." stated Luke looking his Uncle in the eye. He continued, "I just hope that if it comes to that, that you will be there for me and understand why I did what I did at the time?"

Smiling that knowing smile Jesse replied, "Luke you should know by now that I will always be there for you kids. I may not always agree with your course of action, but I will always back you up, first. Then, we will discuss other options for the next time. OK?"

Luke smiled back at his Uncle, "Yes, Sir, and thanks." He said as he got up from the swing still in moderate pain. He leaned over to his Uncle hugging him tightly. Jesse hugged him gently as to not add to the discomfort of his ribs.

[DixieDavenport]

NARRATOR: The holiday season in Hazzard means an increase in demand for shine. Business was good for the Dukes. Thanksgiving found all the Dukes and their friends at Jesse's for a feast fit for a King. Luke visited Robin and Mark's for desert. For Christmas Luke got Robin a charm bracelet with a Cougar, Class of 19??, and her birthstone; his Red and White (away) Cougar Jersey; and a framed picture of them at the homecoming game when he had escorted her as Sophome attendant to the Queen. Luke was trying to show her he cared with out 'buying' all her gifts so they would be special. He also did not want to buy her a ring of any type, he had thought about a 'friendship' ring but was afraid she'd take it too seriously. Robin had got Luke and her a set of broken coin friendship necklaces, a year of Hot Rod magazines, and a Confederate Flag License plate for the car Luke was saving for. Mark and Sharon were becoming an item. Cooter and Kathy were spending a lot of time talking. Bo had a crush on Luke's girlfriends best friend Jill who had her sights on high school guys. Daisy was as cute as a speckled pup. Jeb was torn between wanting to hang out with Bo and Luke and being treated like Coy and Vance who were the youngest of the six. Cooter's father had bought his first wrecker and needed help running the garage while he did the wrecker calls. Cooter and Luke were earning a little money while gaining knowledge of cars while helping out at the Hazzard Garage. Cooter had also gotten his drivers license just after Christmas. He and Luke were now learning to run the wrecker.

Shortly after the new year Luke celebrated his 16th birthday. He also made his drivers the next week. Luke, Cooter, and Bo were now spending much time seaching the many junkyards in and around Hazzard to find a car that could be rescued and rebuilt.

Robins birthday followed about 3 weeks after Luke's. Her parents threw her a "Sweet 16!" skating / pizza party. Her Dad drove his King cab truck with 10 teens in the front two seats and and 16 in the camper covered truck bed. Her Mother followed in her car with several of the younger teens. A great time was had by all.

By summer Luke and Bo had found a car they both agreed on. Bo being only 8 months Luke's junior was just weeks from his own license. They had went in half on a Black 68 Dodge Charger that had been the victim of a non-driver that could not hold it in the road. It had been almost new when wrecked. After sitting in the junkyard, labled hopeless by everyone for several years. It would take much work but the frame was sound. It took a lot of body work and was now 3 shades of primer. The engine had been pulled out. Luther Davenport and Jesse helped the boys to make a list of things that had to be replaced, then ones that should be replaced. Luke was going to school, doing work at the farm, then he had began taking night calls in the wrecker on nights he was not helping Jesse at the still or delievering shine. Bo had taken odd jobs and also was earning money by helping Jesse at the still. They had put every dime they made into getting the parts for the engine. On the last day of school before summer break Luke drove the primered Dodge to school for the first time.

Robin was finally allowed to 'car date'. Usally in groups. With Lukes car running but not much to look at they ususally took Robin's mom's car. Either Luke or Mark would drive. Brenda liked the situation because Luke would show up early when they planned to take her car. Before she knew it he had usually washed and waxed it before taking it out then returned it with a full tank of gas. All it cost her besides the use of the car was also the use of the guest shower.

July 4th was scheduled to be the first annual Hazzard Overland Race. Pushed for money and time the guys sanded the car down for a quick coat of paint just to get it one color. As luck would have it the only color the Hazzard Garage had enough of to paint it one color was a bright Orange. The boys were not really happy with the thought of Orange but fgured it could always be changed. At noon, July 4th, Luke drove the under dog out of the garage. No one took them seriously when they decided to run the car in the race. The sun was bright when the garage doors opened. A powerful sound rang out from the garage. The bright Orange car dubed the "General Lee" with a large black "01" on the doors made it's first appearance in Hazzard. Equiped with a "Dixie" horn and a Confederate Flag on its top Luke and Bo drove it to the starting point. Before painting all the glass was removed and saftey glass installed in the windshield and rear window, the doors were welded shut and a roll cage added. What everyone in Hazzard did not know, the boys had used the old motor to run the car but had also built a racing engine which had been replaced shortly before the paint job. Luke took the General Lee across the finish line in first place earning The General Lee his first win!!! Things in Hazzard have not been the same again!!!! A legend was born without another thought of changing the Hemi-Orange paint!!!!!

[DixieDavenport]

Luke and Robin started their Junior year at Hazzard High School. Both would agree the they had dated each other, only, now for almost a year. Between running moonshine and racing Luke was becomeing very well known. Now that football practice was starting and other responsibilities Luke was trying hard to find time to spend with Robin. He began spending the night with Mark with the wrecker parked outside the McCormick house just to be able to get to see Robin some. Robin was even able to spend some nights with Daisy. Now being very strict households, they maybe in the same house but everyone one knew not to buck either Jesse or Bill by trying to switch rooms! With the hormones of 'young love' it was both great to be able to be close to your girlfriend/boyfriend and frustrating!!! Luke and Robin were becoming very much apart of each others families, finding themselves at each others houses even when the other wasn't home. Everything was great for the young couple from the outside looking in. Several weeks into the new school year with Luke being very busy, Robin began to get bored. Being very popular, not being able to spend as much time with Robin as he'd like, and not being able to be as close as he'd like to be to her Luke found himself noticing other girls who were more 'accessable'. Setting on Robin's front porch one evening Luke brought up a subject sure to get him sent home. "Robin, we have been seeing each other for about a year now. Either, we have been together or busy with work or school functions. This Friday we are 'open'. (The football team and cheerleaders didn't have a game.) What would you say if we both done our own thing for one night?"

Robin was listening. It was as if Luke had read her mind. However, she didn't want to break up. "Are you saying break up?" she looked worried.

"No, that's not what I want. I just want to go out with the guys -- camping, fishing, drinking, something without having to be at the field, farm, garage......"

She completed his sentence, "or here?"

Luke sighed,looking down, and thinking he should not have brought this up, "Yes...." he said just loud enough for her to hear. Now, he braced himself for the slap he expected!

Robin reached for his chin instead of slapping him she tilted his head to her, "You are proposing a girls / guys night out? With no questions, no arguements? One night that we are not dating each other?" she questioned.

Not believing he was hearing her right, Luke was beginning to think she was going to go for it. "Right. I'm not saying go out on each other. Just one night to go out with our friends, or whatever and neither of us be mad the next day. I care for you, Robin, I don't want to lose you, but I need to blow off some steam."

DAMN!!!!! He is feeling like I am!!! How could he know me so well. If I agree to this I can go to Chickasaw County to the ballgame with the others!!! she thought. "Well, I guess I could stay at Kathy's, maybe Jill can come over. I'm sure we can think of something to do. Maybe go skating?" she tested the idea.

I don't believe this!! It's going to work!!! They will go skating and we will go see what Chickasaw County has this year. They do have some good looking girls over there too!!! thought Luke. "Yeah, maybe you all can go skating. That sounds like a fun evening. You can go and skate with those other guys that can skate better than I can and not worry about me."

"Now, Luke! ...." She exclaimed, "We do this Friday night? Saturday? We are still a couple?"

"Yeah, I'm not wanting to break up. Just go out with the guys, somewhere, maybe flirt a little, blow off some steam. Saturday night I'll even take you out to that new place in Chickasaw that you've been wanting to go to?"

Not knowing what she was agreeing to she said, "You've got a deal!!"

[DixieDavenport]

Friday night!!~~~~~~~~~~~~

After school the girls gathered at Robin's to get ready for their night out. They were taking Robin's mom's car then spending the night at Robin's after the game. Robin, Jill and Kathy arrived at the field right before the game started. Their idea of watching the game was to walk around and talk to everyone seeing just enough of the game so that their parents knew they were there. Most importantly knowing the final score.

"How come you didn't ask Mark's girlfriend to join us tonight?" asked Jill.

"Well, I can't say I really like her. She has done nothing to me but there is just something there I don't like. Besides, she'd surely tell Mark that I agreed to meet that Placid football player. He might tell Luke."

Kathy asked, "Are you sure you want to do that?"

"I'm just going to meet him and talk. You guys are going to be there. What could go wrong?" she asked.

"Robin, that is the guy who has tried to run all over Luke last year." reminded Kathy.

Robin replied, "That's part of what I want to talk to him about."

Jill and Kathy looked at each other, "Uh-huh!" they said sarcastically.

~~~~~~~~~~

Cooter, Bo, and Luke rolled into Chichasaw's field as the ball snapped. Mark and Sharon were in Marks' car and would meet them. This field had three gates so the guys did not see the Robin's car. "Bo, breath one word to Robin about this and you'll pay."

"Who, Me??.... Shouldn't you be worried more about her brother being here than me?" questioned Bo.

"Nah, we have an understanding there. Besides I'm not going out on her. I'm just going to do what I said, 'Go out with the guys...... Flirt a little....' like I said I was."

"But you didn't say anything about meeting a Placid cheerleader either." said Cooter.

Luke tried to look innocent, "No. I didn't."

**********

Short but interesting! The next post will be MORE interesting!!!!

DixieDavenport

[DixieDavenport]

After the girls left for the game, all was quiet at the McCormick house. Just Bill and Brenda were home. Bill asked, "Is their trouble in paradise? I see the girls took the car?"

Brenda replied, "I really didn't ask. I think decided to go out separately

tonight for some reason."

"Really?" asked Bill a little too eager.

Brenda asked, "I thought you approved of Luke?"

"Approved is not the word. Accepted." said Bill.

Brenda admitted, "I've gotten kinda used to having him around. Sometimes I think he does more work around here than our boys."

Bill raised his eyebrows, "Your not trying to pick out your son-in-law are you?"

"I agree that they are far too young for that. But, I can't said I'd mind in a few years." replied Brenda.

Bill just gave her a look.

"She could do far worse! Besides my Dad didn't like you either." she reminded.

"That was different." he said walking outside.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

As luck would have it. Mark and Sharon arrived in through the third gate. They decided to wait their for a few minutes to see if the guys came in that way or walked by. Sharon wasn't ready when Mark got there so the first quarter had started. They were watching the crowd when Mark said, "There's Luke coming now."

Sharon said, "Well, don't look now."

Of course he did and saw what she was referring to. Robin was heading their way with the Placid County football player. From the other direction Luke and the Placid County cheerleader were walking on a collision coarse towards Mark. What no one knew was Ralph Green had dated the Placid Cheerleader too. There was nothing Mark or Sharon could do to defuse the situation. Both couples were heading toward them from opposite directions, due to meet each other right in front of Mark and Sharon. Mark had enough time to say, "I don't know who..... But there's going to be one H---- of a fight right in front of us!!!"

Sharon replied, "Oh, yes!..... there is!!!"

~~~~~~

Had to leave a cliff hanger there!

[DixieDavenport]

Carolyn -- Placid cheerleader.

Both couples were holding hands and 'with' each other. The four saw each other at about the same time. They stopped dead in front of each other right in front of Mark and Sharon. Robin had on Ralphs leather jacket. Carolyn had on Lukes 'Cougar' jacket. Luke looked them over and said, "Robin."

Robin said, "Luke."

Ralph said "Carolyn."

Carol said "Ralph."

They were silent for another minute or two. Neither couple backed up for the other one. Finally, both couples stepped to the opposite sides and they continued on their way.

Mark and Sharon were watching with their mouths hanging open. "What just happened?" asked Sharon.

"I saw it. But, I don't know." replied Mark.

About this time Bo and Cooter walked up. They had seen none of it. They were laughing and joking. Suddenly they felt the sheer tension in the air. "What?" they both asked.

Mark and Sharon bean to tell them at the same time what had happened.

"You have got to be kidding?" Said Cooter. "They both decided to not go with each other and ended up at the same game??? Both with someone else and that's ALL that happened?"

Bo said what was on everyone elses mind, "We better keep and eye on them this may not be over."

~~~~~~~~~

Luke walked Carolyn to her car which was luckily parked in the same lot. He gave her a kiss, made sure that her car started and headed toward the General."

Cooter was first to speak in the car. "Man, what a night! Mark told us what happened."

"What are you talking about?" asked Luke. He had not seen Mark or Sharon during the 'showdown'.

Bo couldn't stand it any longer. "About Robin being here with that creep. Luke, why didn't you beat him to a pulp for being here with YOUR girl?????"

"Oh, that!" Luke started, "Well, Bo, because I was in the wrong too. I knew it. I was with someone else, she was with someone else. She didn't look like she was with him against her will. Carolyn also has or is dating Ralph......"

"WHAT??????" both Cooter and Bo exclaimed.

Luke continued, "Yeah, she told me after our little meeting that they used to date. As for Ralph, his time will come.... For right now, I need to see what's up with Robin."

"All I can say, Pardner, is that it has been a real tense night being your friend! Remind me not to join you the next time you want to go out on your girl." complained Cooter, only half seriously.

"Why was it a real tense night for you?" asked Luke.

"Because we were all watching your back whether it needed it or not!" stated Cooter.

"Well, Thanks! I'll make it up to you at the farm." said Luke, trying not to think about the LONG talk he was sure to have with Robin.

~~~~~~~~~~~

PM me with commits. I'd like to know what you think!!

DixieDavenport

[DixieDavenport]

Ralph saw Robin to the gate where she meet Kathy and Jill. He left after a kiss which ended when he attempted to let his hands wander too many places. Walking to the car Kathy couldn't help but ask, "Well??"

"Well, What?" replied Robin.

"Just wondering what you had planned to top tonight? I mean I didn't tell Cooter we were not going to the game or anything. But, I didn't tell him I'd be here either. Now that he knows we did come....."

Jill jumped in, "At least you weren't with someone else when he saw you."

Robin replied, "Thanks you two! Like I need this from you two right now."

"I was just wondering if it was worth it?" asked Kathy. "You know I don't know of a Duke boy yet to date someone for almost a year steadily."

Jill replied, "I needed that right now too Kathy!"

Robin replied to Kathy's question, "OK, I think I made a mistake tonight, but it was different. I'll tell Cooter that I talked you into coming and you knew nothing about Ralph."

"I bet he is wondering who I would have been with had I not seen him." sighed Kathy.

~~~~~~~~~~~~

At the farm, Luke attempted to make the evening up to the guys with a little shine. Luke was boiling inside. The more he kicked himself for meeting Carolyn the more he wanted to kick Ralph! The more he sipped his shine the madder he got. Finally, he knew he was getting way too mad. Luke left the barn and went into the kitchen, finding a pot of coffee still warm on the eye, he wisely switched beverages. He managed to drink two pots of coffee on the front porch before Jesse got up at 4:30 am.

"You're up early." said Jesse sleepily.

Luke looked up, "Haven't been to bed yet."

Jesse looked over his coffee cup.

Luke took a long sip of coffee. "Last night was really messed up." he paused. Jesse just listened. "See me and the guys went to the game in Chickasaw last night. Robin and the girls were suppose to go skating......I did something stupid. I had called a cheerleader from Placid County. I agreed to meet her at the game...." Jesse was not helping. He remained silent. "I met her. Robin didn't go skating. When she saw me I was with Carolyn........She was with that........." Luke bite his tounge to keep the choice names for the Placid football player from being said a loud. "Guy from Placid County that has it out for me."

Now Jesse spoke, surprised, "The Defensive End?"

Luke looked over his coffee cup, "Yeah."

Jesse was not one to get in the middle of his 'kids' problems but couldn't contain, "Why?"

"That's why I'm up. Waiting until a desent hour to go over and find that out myself." explained Luke.

"Luke, you know I don't pry. But have you figured out why you were there with the other girl......I'm sure Robin will want to know...." said Jesse.

"There are a couple things I could blame it on. Probably a couple more I could blow up bigger than they are, but basically I messed up." admitted Luke. "Bo asked why I let him get away with it. How could I jump either of them when I was wrong too?"

Jesse nodded his understanding, "I hope you can be as honest with Robin." he patted Luke on the shoulder, "I got to start breakfast."

"After breakfast, can I use the pickup?" Luke asked.

Surprised, Jesse turned back to him, " Sure you can use the truck. Not the General Lee?"

NARRATOR: "Old Jesse was surprised because even in those days the boys always drove the General Lee when they expected trouble......Which meant they drove him a lot."

Luke just looked up, "No, I think I need the pickup for this."

"Well, OK. You know you can use the pickup anytime." Jesse wondered what his nephew was up to, but felt Luke had already told him more than some teens would have told even a parent. He was concerned about 'his' kids but never pried unless it was serious. Fortunately, for all their sakes Jesse had raised them right and he trusted they would always ask for his help if needed.

[DixieDavenport]

It was about 10 am when Robin heard something stop across the street from her house. Looking out the kitchen window she saw Luke getting out of Jesse's pickup. She was still in her pajamas! She raced up to her room. Luke! I didn't expect him to bother to show up after last night. -- If he wasn't going to break up before last night he will be now. -- Guess that's why he's here. He sure is in a hurry to get on with his life. She sighed. She did not want to break up with him. She started changing clothes.

It was a warm and sunny fall day. Luke walked over to where Brenda was in the yard doing busy work in order to enjoy one of the few warm days left of fall. "Morning, Brenda. I came by to see if Robin will speak to me this morning."

Brenda gave him a questioning look. She also noticed that it looked as if he had not been to bed.

"You don't know about last night?" He saw she did not. "Well, I'll leave the details to Robin. If she will talk to me, do you mind if we take a ride? Kind of a neutral territory thing?" he asked.

"I don't mind if you all go out for awhile, Luke. I thought you two agreed to go out separately and not be mad at each other." stated Brenda.

Luke nodded, "That was the idea. We'll see how it worked here in a minute." He started toward. He opened the door without knocking from habit. The house was quiet. "Robin?" he called as he wiped his feet. She was not in the kitchen or TV rooms. He determinely walked up the stairs to her room. The door was closed. Luke knocked on the door.

"Give me a minute, Luke." he heard her say from inside the closed door. Inside Robin had put on a pair of blue jeans with her boots and a white tub top with a green and blue flannel over it. She had rolled up the sleeves and tied the shirt tails at her waist. At the moment, she was fighting with her contacts. Usually it took her just a minute to get them in -- not today. This was her third try. This was all she needed, it would look as if she had been crying. GREAT! Finally she got the contacts in and dried her face. She turned to get her brush and tripped over something, "@$@%$*@!" She said as she stumbled nearly falling. She was trying to hurry, but took the time to kick the offending shoe across the room.

Luke heard the noise followed by her cursing, then a thud. "Robin are you OK?"

"Lovely, just lovely!" she said sarcastily.

Bill exited his bedroom right next to his daughters room to find Luke Duke leaning against the wall outside Robin's room. "What is going on in there?"

"Beats me!" sighed Luke.

Bill gave the closed door a dirty look before going down the hall.

Robin brushed her long hair and pulled it into a ponytail. She checked her face it still looked as if she had been crying. Sighing, she went to the door. When she opened it she saw Luke standing against the hallway wall. He looked up at her. He looked tired she thought.

"Can we go somewhere and talk?" he asked.

She shrugged her shoulders and followed him downstairs where he continued outside and towards the pickup. Luke opened the truck door for her. She got in, still not saying a word. Luke went around the truck started it and pulled out heading up the road above her house. It was just a short distance before the road turned to gravel. Luke continued to drive up the mountain for several miles. Robin knew the road ever bit as good as Luke because she and her brothers and Dad road motorcycles up here. Luke rounded a curve and slowed down. There was a spot on the bank of the hillside that he was looking for. When he found it he passed it and stopped in the middle of the road. He put the truck in reverse and backed up the steep hillside. Once it leveled out a path just wide enough for the old Ford was barely visible. Luke backed up away from the road far enough he was sure that the truck could not be seen from the road. Luke knew the path as it lead to one of Jesse's stills. He cut the motor off. Both Luke and Robin set still not saying anything for several minutes. "Robin, I'm sorry." said Luke.

Though Robin was just on the other side of the truck she barely heard him. She instantly took it wrong. Thinking he was going to say he was breaking up with her. She lowered her head looking at her lap.

"Robin?" questioned Luke. She still would not look at him. He turned in the seat reaching for her chin, he turned her face toward him. She had tears in her eyes. "Why the tears?"

She had difficulty finding her voice, "I don't want you to break up with me but after last night I know you will. You're going to say you're sorry for breaking up with me."

A bit relieved, Luke said, "No, that's not what I'm going to say. Come here." he said pulling her across the truck seat toward him. He put his arms around her shoulders as she faced the other side of the truck. "I'm sorry for even calling that girl, mainly I'm sorry for agreeing to meet her......"

Robin turned in his arms to look at him while still remaining in his hold.

"Do you know you drive me crazy?....I love spending time with you. Then there is football, the farm, the wrecker, and helping Jesse. I have responsiblities to all those but I also have a responsiblity to you. I'm there when I can be. We have been seeing each other almost a year now. I'd like to spend more time with you but sometimes there's not enough hours in the day. Then when we are together...... it is great, but......"

"It got old?" she finished his sentence.

"Not exactly. It got frustrating! You are there, so close, yet, I gave your father my word to be a gentleman and mostly we are with either your family or mine so I have to be....."

"Luke, I had no idea about you giving your word to Daddy." she almost whispered. "I thought you were bored with me." she said barely aduible.

Luke smiled for the first time that day, "Believe me I am not bored with you." He kissed her. "But, why did you go out with Ralph of all people?"

"He was the only one to ask me. I thought......" she shook her head no. "that you were bored with me. I thought that I maybe could go out with him and you'd not know but if you found out.....that it may get your attention."

Slightly miffed but trying not to show it, "You did get my attention. Do you know Bo asked why I let him get away with going out with 'my girl'?..... The only answer I could give him was that I was in the wrong too."

"Luke, I am so sorry. Of all people I can't believe I went out with him after he was after you like that." stated Robin near tears again.

"His day will come! How could you think I was bored with you?" He questioned.

She looked into his eyes, "I have heard some of the stories about you and your cousins. I thought because you hadn't tried anything with me you weren't interested."

"Believe me I'm interested." he whispered.

She took his hand placing it under her shirt.

[DixieDavenport]

When they returned it was obvious that they had made up. Robin hugged Luke before getting out of the truck in front of the house. Luke had to get back and do his choirs. Brenda noticed Robin left with her hair in a ponytail, now it was down and appeared to be attempting to hide a 'hicky'. Bill also took in the slightly rumpled appearance of his daughter.

Later that afternoon Bill told Brenda he was going to the Boars Nest. This was odd as he did not drink. She just said "Ok."

Bill walked in to the Boars Nest where he found his friends Jesse Duke and Luther Davenport sipping on a cold beer. He joined them, then ordered a pop. Ideal decussion was made between the friends until Luke walked in with Bo, Cooter and Mark. The four ordered a beer and took seats at the bar except for Luke who walked toward Jesse's table. "Here's the wrecker keys. I'll be by about noon and keep it tomorrow night." stated Luke.

"Thanks, Luke." said Luther.

Luke started to return to his friends when he stopped. "Bill, before you leave, can we talk?"

The tension at the table was felt by Jesse and Luther. Bill replied coldly, "That's why I'm here. I'll be right over."

Luke returned to the bar finished his beer and set the mug down as Bill walked over. Luke ordered a bottle of beer and a pop that they could take outside. They walked outside towards the creek a short distance from the Boars Nest. "Bill, I've kept my word to you, to this point. That's what Robin and I were argueing about. She thought I wasn't interested in her. This could not be further from the truth, but I gave you my word...."

"Luke, Brenda and I noticed Robin's appearance today. You two were gone for hours and she comes home with her hair different, a 'hicky' on her neck, and clothes a mess....." Bill was interupted.

"Nothing happened." replied Luke. "We talked and made up a little but nothing happened.

Bill continued, "Maybe nothing did happen. Maybe no one else knows you two were gone that long. Maybe no one else knows her hair was up when she left and down when she returned. And, maybe no one else will see the 'hicky', but that's what I'm talking about when I say I will not have her reputation in question!" Bill said with a slightly raised voice. "A 'grab' or a 'feel' in the house is one thing and I don't bite. I'd rather see you tickle her than her come home after and I wonder what happened to get her messed."

"Understood!" was all Luke said. He now saw what he had been doing. He was being too good because he thought Bill would object which made Robin doubt him. He now saw, it had also made Bill doubt him instead of trust him. Bill felt more as if he had been hiding his actions instead of resisting temptation.

"I know you two have been seeing each other for quiet some time now. You will both be 17 in a few months. Believe me I was 17 once. I am not ready for a son-in-law OR a grandchild. Got me???"

Luke said, "Yes, I got ya."

Bill continued, "I want the best for my only daughter. I can only hope she can give her gift to her husband one day one their wedding night......" Bill paused

Luke was not expecting this conversation from Bill.

"I know I can't control my daughters actions and I can only hold you to your word so long,....." Bill considered his next statement carefully. "I think you two are still too young and I am not talking about anytime before she is 17,..... But I'd rather know you were sharing her bed under my roof than for her to go to a cheep motel or backseat,....."

Luke had a look of shock on his face. He took a long drink of his beer. "Meaning?" he asked.

"Meaning just what I said. When the time comes, IF it comes before Robin finishes school, you are welcome to share her room at my house, on occassion, as opposed to taking her to a motel or in the back seat. ONLY if your story is that you stayed the night with Mark."

"This is permission?" asked Luke.

"No. It is accepting. Should you spend the night at my house tonight, 2 months later I'm expecting a grand child, I'm looking for you. Should you all break up tonight, and you not be at my house again, and the same thing happens several months later I'll be looking for someone else. See??" explains Bill.

The lodgic of Bill's statement sinks in. "So, it would be for my protection as well as my hanging should we 'spend time' together at your house rather than somewhere else?"

"That's right." said Bill.

[DixieDavenport]

NARRATOR: Well, Luke and Robin made up. He had gained acceptance from Bill. The Hazzard Cougars again took the Championship. The holidays passed and all of Hazzard rang in a New Year. Robin had hoped for a ring from Luke this year but instead he got her several more charms for her bracelet and a pair of dress boots he knew she wanted. She had gotten him a racing helmet and fire proof suit. Luke turned 17 in Janauary and Robin in February. As Easter break was fast approaching Luke still had not stayed with Robin at her house. Jeb had also gotten drivers license.

Hazzard County was coming alive with the sounds of Spring after a long winter. The weather was warmer and with the warm weather the females exchanged their winter clothes for much skimper Spring clothes, much to the delight of the males. Mark and Sharon had started coming in very late. Cooter and Kathy had also been taking the long way home. Bo was 'playing the field' just having a good time with all the girls though he was still interested in Jill. She still had he sights elsewhere.

Early evening, the night that started Easter break was Cooter's turn to have the wrecker over night. Luke had arranged for an off night with Jesse saying he might spend the night at Marks. The gang had decided to go out the lake where they could have privacy and listen to their music. There was a long straight road which ran the lenght of the lake which had been used to drag race for years. Parked in a wide spot over looking the moonlite lake was the General Lee, the wrecker, Mark's Firebird, Jesse pickup (Bo and Jeb showed up without dates.), and many other cars. Everyone was enjoying the music, some had brought coolers of beer, others pop, some one had brought hot dogs and several bags of marshmellows. The guys were looking under the hoods of the cars making some adjustments in case the chance to race them came along. The females were mostly talking amoung themselves about the guys and changing the music.

Luke had a beer in his hand but had only sipped it hoping to get a chance to do some racing tonight. He and Cooter had the timing just about as good as they could expect when Mark McCormick walked up. "Care to try your luck?" asked Mark.

"That's why I'm doing all this work." Smiled Luke handing his beer to Bo.

"I'm riding!" exclaimed Bo handing the beer off to Cooter.

The boys had already installed the roll cage. Luke opened the trunk and took out his racing suit and helmet. He also tossed another helmet to Bo.

Robin sees what is taking place as Luke is hooking up the 4 point seat-belt. "Oh, Lord! Look at those fools." She said. She knew there was no point in trying to stop Luke, but was glad she had gotten him the added protection for Christmas. even if he was just racing her brother things could go wrong.

Mark was in the Firebird which was not equiped with the racing extras that the General Lee had. He also wasn't wearing a helmet or fire suit. He had pulled the Firebird to the makeshift startline.

Luke also pulled to the line as the crowd spread out along the 'race course'. Sharon was all for the race and was acting as the starter. Cooter held the $50 dollars from each driver. Jeb walked up to Robin, "Relax they are just having fun."

"I know. I still can't help but worry. That's why I got him the helmet and things for Christmas. I figure if he's got to do this at least he should be as safe as possible." The engines roared to life as the flag dropped. Robin held her breath. The Firebird was lighter and got the lead. A second later Luke hit another gear and the Dodge Charger leaped ahead of the Firebird. Checking the rear view mirror Luke could see the Firebird and shifted to Neutral well before drifting across the finish line ahead of the Firebird. The two cars circled and headed back to the crowd of friends.

Luke and Bo climbed out of the window as Mark opened his door and got out of the car. They both shook hands on a good clean race. Most of these guys respected a paint job taking a lose as opposided to messing up someone else's or their own paint which Cooter greatly appreciated even then. Cooter paid Luke as Robin walked up. Her face showed relief, this was her first time watching Luke drag race. Luke hugged her. She felt very tense.

Mark asked, "How about two out of three?"

Keeping his arm around Robin Luke nodded, "Not tonight." Luke decided not to race again tonight because it upset Robin. They would have to talk about this but not tonight. He didn't want her to ask him not to race again so he decided this before she could ask. He would not be 'hen pecked' but he'd conceed this time to the unasked request. He also saw the excitement in Bo's eyes. "Care to give Mark a chance to win his money back?"

"Alright!" Bo exclaimed.

As Luke tossed him the keys he had created a monster! Bo had been driving awhile and had raced for fun but not like this! Luke helped him get stapped in. Jeb would be riding shot gun. "Bo you're not going to have to run him all out to beat the Firebird. Just give him what he needs to win, but hang on to him. Don't let him get out from under you."

All Bo said was "Ok."

Luke knew he might as well have been talking to a tree. The flag dropped, Bo popped the clutch, the powerful machine kicked left, Luke cursed, Bo grabbed second, the General Lee kicked to the right, Bo hit third and the General kicked back to the left and came all the way around in a 360 degree turn, Bo wisely let off just a bit and continued to the finish line just in front of the Firebird as Luke was promising to kill him. Both cars circled and returnd to the start line.

"Would you like to tell me just what the H-- that was?" exclaimed Luke as Bo climbed out the General's window.

"Take it easy me and the General were just coming to an understanding." replied Bo grinning form ear to ear.

"I'm glad you did. I hope you understand that you pull that stunt again you'll need alot of understanding!" Luke fussed.

[DixieDavenport]

The gang watched as Mark raced another race against a Camero. Mark won hands down. There was several more races before they decided that they had ran long enough and had better cool it before Rosco got wind of the racing. As the racing action was finished for the night several cars soon left. A small fire was built for roasting marshmellows and hot dogs. Luke and Robin were walking around the small lake when they stopped on the other side in a small clearing. They stopped listening to the sounds of Spring. Crickets, frogs and an occassional whiperwill and owl could be heard. Luke took Robin into his arms and kissed gently. The kiss intensified, suddenly it was much warmer on the lakeside than it had been minutes before. Robin stepped closer to Luke letting her body lean against his muscular form. Robin was sure there was ten thousand butterflies in her stomach. Luke was finding it hard to breath and even harder to do what he must do. Robin untucked the back of his shirt. Lukes hand also began to wander. Robin whispered, "Make love to me."

This stopped Luke right where he was. He had waited over a year and a half to hear her say this. "You're sure?"

"Yes." she said barely a whisper.

"Ok, if you are sure now, you'll be sure in a hour. Let's go." stated Luke taking her hand.

"Wait a minute. Where are you going in such a hurry and what does and hour have to do with it?" question Robin breathlessly.

Luke stopped. "Look, if we're going to do this is will be right and not out here."

Not sure what Luke had in mind and not knowing about his conversation with her Dad, Robin followed Luke trusting he knew what was best. They returned to the campfire. Cooter and Kathy were making out at fire side. Mark and Sharon had steamed the windows of the Firebird up. Everyone else had left. Luke helped Robin into the window of the General Lee.

Cooter called, "It's still early, where are you guys going?"

Luke replied over his shoulder, "Got to get Robin home before she turns into a pumpkin. Tell Mark I'm spending the night with him tonight." Luke managed to say so it was known he was staying 'with Mark'. A couple of miles from the lake Luke pulled off in a wide spot and cut the engine off. I'll be right back in a few minutes. thinking he was going on a nature call Robin thought nothing of it. Several minutes passed before Luke returned with something wrapped in his jacket. He restarted the General and they headed straight for Robin's house.

"Luke what are you doing? I thought ........." she said as he hushed her.

"Shhh. I've got this figured out. I'll explain in a bit. Just trust me." said Luke.

Robin was more than a bit confussed but decided to see what Luke had in mind. Pulling in Robin's driveway gate, Luke stopped, backed up to the front of the unused garage door, and cut the motor. "I don't know if your Dad talked to you but we have an agreement."

Robin was giving him a puzzled look that told him she knew nothing of there agreement.

"Ok, your Dad may not be real happy with us tomorrow but he did give me permission to spend the night with you as long as everyone else thinks I'm staying with Mark. He didn't want your first time to be out in a back seat or a cheep motel..." Luke said as Robin interupted.

"Luke, how long ago have you had this conversation with Daddy?" questioned Robin.

Luke said, "Back last fall after we went up on the mountain and made up."

"You had permission that long and you didn't tell me?" Robin asked.

Luke replied, "I wanted you to let me know when you were ready."

"I'm ready." Robin said quietly.

Luke nodded as he exited the General.

[DixieDavenport]

He went to her side and helped her out of the car. He reached in and got his jacket covering something. Inside they removed their shoes and headed to the stairs. Bill was reading a western in the den as they approached the steps. He looked at Luke questioning. Luke nodded, toward the upstairs as he took Robins' hand and headed up the stairs. Robin felt her face blush. She felt like she blushed for the next 10 minutes. At the top of the stairs Luke entered her room for the first time. Robin looked toward her closet, "David's room connects through the closet. You need to figure a way to block him off or he'll be camped out in there all night." she was more than a bit nervous, saying, "I'll be right back." She opened a dresser drawer, grabbing something, she headed down the hall the the bathroom.

Luke looked around the room trying to figure how to block the closet. He took his pocket knife from its case on his belt. He placed it between the door and the door facing. That would stop the door from opening. He then noticed an extra blanket on folded on the foot of the bed. Looking at the make up table he found 2 nail files. Using the nail files he secured the blanket to the door facing to keep the younger brother from peeping through cracks in and under the door. He also noticed Robin had several candles on the dresser and tables. He took a minute to light them before Robin returned to her room wearing a heavy, fluffy bath robe and slippers. Robin locked the door behind her. Luke handed her an open Mason jar of Jesse's finest shine, she took a sip as she undone her fluffy robe reveling a long sheer black nightgown........................

~~~~~~~~~~~~~

[DixieDavenport]

The next morning found Luke in the McComick kitchen sipping on a cup of freshly made coffee as Robin's father made his way down the stairs. Luke poured a second cup of coffee and handed it to her father. "You know we have a problem that neither of us considered." stated Luke.

Sipping the hot brew Bill asked, "What would that be?"

Luke uttered one word, "David."

"We'll talk to Mark. Then I'll 'handle' David." replied Bill in a totally serious demeanor.

NARRATOR: The conversation with Mark went well. The three men had agreed that IF David shot off his mouth, that the same story from the three of them would discredit the story of the youngest brother. Robin's Dad would make life hard on his youngest son if he decided to tell what he thought he knew."

[DixieDavenport]

NARRATOR: Things went well for Robin and Luke up until the next Christmas. They had their disagreements but they were a steady couple. Luke had even gotten out the ring his Father had given his Mother as an engagement ring. He had it polished at a jewelers outside of Hazzard. He placed in his top dresser drawer. Several times before Christmas he took it out and looked at it but could not help get the feeling that he was just too young to promise to be with Robin all his life. Robin was CERTAIN that this year she would wear Luke's ring.

Christmas Eve found Luke and Robin parked at the lakes overlook. Luke handed Robin a large box. Robin opened it and found a small jewelry box setting on an outfit that she had been wanting for months. She hugged Luke tightly for the outfit. Then she nervously picked up the jewelry box. She beamed with delight as she opened the box. She carefully moved the cotton inside the box to find a beautiful necklace with a diamond chip as the dot of the "I" in Robin. She tried to hide the disappointment and shock when she saw the necklace. "It's beautiful." she said with a weak smile. She did like the presents but they were not what she had hoped for. Robin had gotten Luke a turquoise belt buckle, belt and knife case containing a knife that Luke had admired for quiet some time, that he would wear for years.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

During Christmas break, Jesse made the time to have a serious talk with Luke. One unseasonably warm night Jesse was on the porch whittling as Luke sat down with a cup off coffee. He had the wrecker overnight for calls. "Luke, in a couple of weeks you will turn 18. I know you have gotten away with a lot the last couple of years. Just remember that once you turn 18, that Rosco and the others WILL be gunning for you. There wasn't much they could do to you before, but after you turn 18 they will be out to get you."

"They haven't caught me yet." replied Luke.

Jesse looked at his nephew. Sometimes Luke could act like he knew everything and this tended to bother Jesse to no end. He replied, "Maybe. But it could also be that there was no real point in trying since they couldn't lock you up. They figure if they get you all out of the way it will put us out of business. Just keep your eyes open for any set up. From running shine to who might ask you to buy them a beer. For goodness sake be careful of the girls you date. With you all being the Casanova's of Hazzard they could easily try to have some young thing get to you. I'm telling you they have been laid back waiting for you, Bo, and the others to turn 18."

Luke saw that Jesse was totally serious.He also, saw the worry in his Uncles' eyes. He let the information sink in. "You know you could be right. I've had them chase me on runs but as soon as they got close enough for them to see it was me I lost them way to easily."

Luke turned 18 in January, followed by Robin in February. Luke saw little things that made him more convienced that Jesse had been right. He was approached by several classmates younger than him asking him to buy them a beer at the Boars Nest. He would tell them if they were old enough to buy it then they didn't need him to buy it.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Valentine's Day was approaching. Luke again thought of giving Robin the ring but felt it would not work. Instead, Luke had the florist deliver a dozen roses and balloon to Robin at school. Setting in her seat of the General Lee was a huge stuffed bear that held a heart saying "I Love You!" Robin again liked the presents but it was not what she wanted. Most of Robin's friends were envious of the gifts as their boyfriends did not have the extra money that Luke had to spend. Yet, several of her friends were sporting engagement rings and beginning to plan for after graduation weddings.

As Spring sprung in Hazzard, love was in the air for all of Hazzard except Luke and Robin. Luke had stayed at Robin's only a few times since Christmas. Robin tried to act pleased around her friends with Luke's presents but she really wanted a commitment that Luke wasn't ready to give. Finally it came down to a discussion between them, where Robin suggested they see other people for awhile. Luke had to agree. He knew if she had given him a little time that he most likely would have given her the ring he knew she wanted.

A week passed. Then, another, still Robin and Luke didn't go out with each other. Robin had went out with several guys a time or two. After about two months Luke decided he ask someone out. He began to ask out girls that he thought were 'easy', more ofter than not getting what he wanted by at least the second date. Then, he'd move on to the next challenge. Luke was also drinking pretty heavy. Usually when he and Bo would double date, Bo almost always found himself driving home. The only time that Luke would go out and not drink was when he had the wrecker. Bo, Jesse and the others were worried but felt it was a 'stage' he was going through and decided to give him some time and room to work it out.

[DixieDavenport]

The Senior Prom was less than a month away. Robin had been asked several times but still hoped Luke would call. There was no one Luke wanted to take to his Senior Prom more than Robin, yet, that stubborn Duke pride kept him from calling. Mark saw the pain his sister and best friend were going through and decided to nudge things a little............

"Luke, I'm having some trouble out of the Firebird that's why I drove Dad's truck today. Do you think you can come over after school and give me a hand?" asked Mark.

Luke smiled, "Mark, you know that I have been staying away from your house on purpose."

Mark looked at Luke, "Yeah, I do, but I thought you said we would be friends no matter what happened between you and Robin. Besides she may not even be home when we get there."

"You have got me there. Yeah, I come over after school." replied Luke.

"Great! I'll meet you out here after the bell rings." stated Mark as he headed off to class.

After school Mark and Luke went to Mark's house. They had parked, Luke was changing into one of Marks shirts as Mark raised the hood on the Firebird. About this time Robin pulled into the yard. Luke knew she had pulled in but continued what he was doing. It took him a few minutes to find the loose wire that was giving Mark his trouble. Which, unknown to Luke, Mark had loosened the night before. As Luke and Mark were finishing up on the Firebird Robin came outside. As she approached the two both Robin and Luke spoke at the same time, "Can we talk?" they asked in unison. The three friends smiles at each other.

"Care to take a ride?" asked Luke.

Robin said, "OK." She headed to her car. "But, I'd like us to each take our own cars."

Surprised, Luke nodded, OK.

As the two pulled out of the yard Luke in the General Lee and Robin in her car, Mark was glad he had pulled the shuck and jive on Luke. At least they were going to talk.

[DixieDavenport]

Luke headed up the mountain above Robin's house. He'd have to find a spot large enough to park both cars that her car could get to. Finding a spot he thought would work he swung wide so that he was heading back down the mountain. Robin pulled in behind him. Luke got out and went back to her car getting in the passenger side.

They set in silence a moment. Finally, Robin looked at Luke, "Prom is just a few weeks away."

Luke nodded, "Yeah, and there is no one I'd rather go with than you."

"I feel the same way. I have been asked by several guys but haven't accepted any of them."

Luke felt a glimmer of hope.

"I'd love to go with you. Luke. I have dreamed of nothing else since we started dating, but I can't go back to what we had before." she paused letting that bit of news sink in. "I need to KNOW that we are going somewhere. We have been through three Christmas and Valentine's and you have made no commitments....." she sniffed as tears came into her eyes, "I'm not talking about tomorrow. I can hold on, if I KNOW we will have something,..... say in the next two years."

The silence in the car was deafening as Luke absorbed what she had said. Making sure he understood her, "So, you are saying, that you will go to the Prom with me if I can promise that within the next two years we will get married?"

"Luke, if we go to the Prom together and I am wearing your ring by graduation, then I can wait for you. I think asking that our engagement last two years or under is fair. I mean we have already been together the better part of three years." stated Robin as tears ran down her checks.

"If I can't tell you that?" asked Luke.

"Then, I plan on going to the Prom with someone who has already asked me to marry them." stated Robin matter-of-factly.

"So basically, you are giving me an ultimatum. Either I tell you that we will be married in the next two years or you'll marry someone else?" Asked Luke trying to keep all emotion out of his voice.

Robin nodded, 'yes'.

"Can I ask who you plan on going to the prom and marrying if I can't tell you that?" questioned Luke.

Robin said, in a voice barely heard by herself or Luke, "Ralph Green."

Luke couldn't help the surprised look on his face. "You are giving me an ultimatum. Either I tell you, I'll marry you with in two years or you will marry Ralph? Of all people!" he added.

Robin said, "Yes."

Several minutes of silence passed as Luke considered his options. He knew that had she not tried to force his hand, that most likely they would have patched things up eventually and most likely in the next two years he would have proposed. He also knew that letting her go to the Prom with anyone else, especially Ralph, would be the beginning of the end. Luke was not happy about being given an ultimatum. Yet, he knew he loved Robin like he had loved no other girl. Luke swollowed the lump in his throat and said, "Robin, I love you. I love you more than I can say." Luke leaned across the seat taking Robin who was shaking in his arms, kissing her long and deeply. Then looked her in the eye and said, "I hope you and Ralph are very happy together." Luke said through a slightly cracking voice. "I'll be by next week for my things." He got out of Robin's car. Walked to the General Lee, climbed through the window, started him up and burn out letting the General turn totally around in the road. Before reaching Robin's house, Luke stopped and waited until he saw Robin's car behind him. Seeing the car coming up behind him, knowing that she could make it to the house from there, he again burn out leaving her in a cloud of dust.

[DixieDavenport]

Luke found Bill at the Boars Nest talking to Jesse and Luther Davenport. "Bill, could we talk? Please?" asked Luke.

Bill excused himself from his friends as Luke ordered a bottle of beer and Pop. Again they walkled outside by the stream. "I just left Robin. As you know things have been pretty bad since Christmas. We have not seen much of each other nor have I been over but a couple of times since Christmas. We just had a long talk. She gave me an ultimatum, either I tell her we'd be married within two years or she was marrying Ralph......"

Bill asked, "And?"

"I told her I hope they have a nice life together." replied Luke as he took a long drink of his beer.

"I see." said Bill.

"The last time I stayed with 'Mark' was Easter break." Luke stated for the record.

Bill replied, "Yes, I know. I'm sorry things didn't work out with you two. I had kinda gotten used to having you around. But, you never know what the future holds...."

"I had gotten used to being around, too. I love her, but I can't promise her anything now. I think it would be unfair to us both if I did when I know that I'm not ready now to settle down and I can't be sure when I will be." stated Luke.

"I can respect that." stated Bill.

"I don't want her to mess up her life but I can't lie to save her either. " stated Luke

Bill replied, "I understand that. " He extended his hand. Luke took it and they shook hands.

[DixieDavenport]

NARRATOR: Things in Hazzard were a bit tense as the Prom aproached. Luke and Robin had given back each other's personal things. Though, they both kept the gifts from one another. Luke was asked by many girls to the Prom but continued to turn them all down. He knew if he went, saw Robin with Ralph, it wouldn't take much to push his buttons and he would end up in a bunch of trouble. Luke offered to take Cooter's turn with the wrecker that night so that Cooter could take Kathy to the Prom and not have to be back by midnight to work the wrecker. Mark took Sharon to the Prom. Luke wasn't drinking as much as he had been becasue he was throwing himself into work. If he wasn't working at the farm or running shine, he was driving the wrecker. Jesse and the others were glad but also worried that he was 'over doing it'.

Sharon was never one to really hang out with the girls from Hazzard. Most of her friends were from Chichasaw County. They really had a reputation for being trouble. The guys had many times tried to talk to Mark but he was head over heels for her so they were polite for Mark.