Chapter Nine
Between training Aidan, keeping her property maintenance, and exploring new bases of her relationship with Bo, the week before the race went by very quickly for Caitlin. She had even managed to lose a car race against Bo when he showed her the place where he had been a stock car racer. She had lost in her Viper of all things. But her revenge was sweet.
It was the day before the race and they had decided not to practice Aidan and let him wander about Rose Barn for the day with Brie for company. Caitlin met Bo and Luke at The Boars Nest for lunch and to visit with Daisy. She and Daisy had gone to Atlanta to get Caitlin her racing silks and other things they enjoyed shopping together for. Cooter, Enos, and even Rosco had joined them for beers. Since the night of Boss's toast to Bo and Caitlin, he had left Daisy instructions that if Caitlin wanted a glass of whiskey that she was to have his best...at a price of course. The mood was light and Luke nettled her about losing to Bo in her Viper. Bo did not jump to her defense and she was irritated with him. She wanted a little revenge.
Caitlin innocently asked who the better driver was...Bo or Luke. Her remark had gotten the response she was looking for...they each announced that they were the better of the two. Then Daisy and Rosco pronounced Luke the better driver; Cooter and Enos said that Bo was. By the time they were finished an argument had started. This allowed Caitlin to offer her solution. She challenged, "Let's go find out. Bo you take my viper, Luke you take The General."
Luke refused, "No, I'll take the Viper and Bo takes The General!"
Caitlin asked, "Does it matter. They are both fast cars...though because of my inexperience I could not push my baby to her best potential."
Luke replied, "That's why I want it, Caitlin."
Caitlin looked at Bo and said, "Well, is it a race?"
Several other voices around them edged them on. Daisy laughing, sensing exactly what Caitlin was going to do. Bo wanted to race his cousin...wanted to race using Caitlin's Viper. But from her pleading expression, he decided he could wait another day to experience its power. He had one brief thought...he wondered at Caitlin's remark about her inexperience using The Vipers for its speed. He had seen her drive, had been in the car along side her. The only reason he had beaten her that day was because she didn't know the track as well as he did. And he knew she was practicing, planning to race him again. He loved that competitive spirit she had, that need to win...to do her best and get better. He saw the challenge in Luke's face and the taunt on Caitlin's and agreed, "Let's do it!"
Caitlin looked at Luke and said, "One condition, I get to ride with Bo and the winner has to race me! And then if you beat me, I will have to forfeit what ever price you ask me to pay." That remark brought out an applause and "go get her" from those around them.
Bo and Luke looked at each other and then shook hands in agreement. Within a few minutes, they had all relocated to the stockcar track. Bo and Caitlin sat side by side in The General and Luke in The Viper. Enos called out the start and the race was on. Caitlin held on...the adrenaline of the speed arousing her senses. It was a like a drug and her whole body tingled. Bo and Luke stayed even with each other around the first turn of the track and continued that way through two laps. Caitlin had hoped that Luke would beat his cousin. But they seemed to be very evenly matched. On any other day, Caitlin would have relished Bo's expertise at the wheel. But she needed to help Luke. Knowing that Bo was not paying attention to her, Caitlin inched closer to him, her hand seductively caressing the gearshift like she had caressed Bo's body the night before. A wicked smile touched the corners of her mouth and then she ran her tongue over her lips as Bo's focus slightly swayed and his eyes dipped to watch her movements for a fraction of a second.
Bo smiled and teased, "My Caiti-Girl, you need to find some place else to put your hand, Darlin. Or I'm gonna lose!"
Caitlin nodded, "Oh, OK." She retrieved her hand and waited for him to ignore her again.
Bo returned his attention to the track. But he could not concentrate; the lower half of his body was becoming alive with familiar sensations. Fingers were loosening his shirt and then a hand rested on his upper thigh. He looked at Caitlin and she smiled seductively, "For Good Luck!"
From the Viper, Luke watched Bo drop back for a brief instant, but not long enough to let Luke get ahead of him. Luke downshifted to get more speed from the Viper and was rewarded with another increase...he was pushing 190mph...Bo again matching him. Luke laughed to himself wondering how he had gotten into this race. He knew full well that he and Bo were evenly matched in their racing skills...Bo a little better when push came to shove. Luke knew he had the edge only because of the newer more powerful engine of the Viper and his ability to harness it.
Bo had a problem. He wanted to beat his cousin to race against Caitlin again. He knew exactly what price he would demand once he crossed the finish line ahead of her. But she was making his ability to concentrate rough. He liked the feeling of her hand resting on his thigh and resumed his involvement in the race. They had just entered the last lap and had crossed the first turn. He nudged ahead of Luke, staying to inside of the track. Again his concentration was blown.
Caitlin pressed herself into Bo's side at just the right calculated moment. She let her hand travel further across his thigh while breathing kisses to his neck. He looked at her and she gave him a look he had come to desire in the past few days. He knew what she wanted. He suddenly gave up the race, The General slowing to a halt with his foot on the break. Bo threw the gearshift into park and fiercely pulled Caitlin against him. He growled in frustration as his mouth found hers while her hands roamed over him. He heard her purr satisfactorily and then laugh a deep throaty laugh. The noise of a horn and a gunshot was heard outside The General announcing that Luke had crossed the finish line and won. Bo eased up on Caitlin and looked deep into her eyes. He stated, "You wanted me to lose, didn't you."
The gold in Caitlin's teasing eyes danced before him, "How could you tell." Then she threw herself back into kisses, pressing against him as hard and as much as she could. Loud footsteps and voices coming toward them interrupted their embrace. Luke looked into the General and challenged, "So, Miss Rose, you ready to race the best Duke Racer!"
Caitlin replied in mock sweetness, "I was...but now I guess I'll have to race you."
She asked, "Do you want the Viper again? Or me?"
Luke asked, "You'd race the General! But..." He saw the teasing, challenge in her eyes, and said, "Let's go! Come on, Bo, no giving her pointers. I know exactly what your Rose is going to do for me when this is over!"
Caitlin said, "What, pray tell, is that?"
Luke said, "Oh, just some of that chicken Bo keeps bragging about...and maybe taking your Viper for a long drive to see a friend of mine."
Caitlin smiled, "Is she pretty?"
Luke smiled but didn't answer.
Caitlin returned, "Ok, Mr. Duke, but If I beat you, this Saturday after the race you have to run some errands for me and let Bo and I have the day to ourselves! I need a whole list of supplies. Oh and you have to tell everyone at The Boars Nest that I kicked ass on this track."
Luke agreed, "Deal!" He now understood why they were racing. His remark...she wanted revenge. Well he planned to have the last laugh.
Bo watched his cousin and his fiancée shake hands. He wanted to warn Luke about Caitlin's skill, but Caitlin would kill him. He stood helplessly thinking, "Luke, you screwed with the wrong woman! Have fun with those errands on Saturday."
Again, Luke entered the driver's side of the Viper and Bo helped Caitlin back into the General and got her buckled in and a helmet on this time. Bo was about to give Caitlin some advice about the race. Caitlin shook him off and asked him to just let her go. Bo took it upon himself to start the race. Before the word "Go" died on his lips, the Viper and The General flew past him in their second race against each other. Bo hurried off to the sidelines where Enos, Cooter, and Daisy watched the race.
Luke and Caitlin drove side by side around the racetrack staying tied. Luke tried to get Caitlin to notice him, but just as she had done when riding Aidan, her focus was totally on the task a head of her. There was no smile on her face, her lips tightened together as she listened to The General's engine in order to shift at the right moment, to pull more speed from his engine. Luke became determined to beat Caitlin. He did not want the embarrassment of losing to her twice. He waited for the next turn and maneuvered to the inside to pull a head of The General by almost two car lengths. He blew The Viper's horn in celebration. Caitlin remained on The Viper's bumper fighting to get around it. She waited patiently for her chance. As they rounded the last turn of the last lap, Caitlin finally smiled. She spoke, "Ok, General Lee, Give me everything you've got Sweetheart!" then she downshifted and pushed the gas pedal to the floor until she heard the engine go into overdrive. By the time they came out of the turn onto the last straightaway, she had managed to pull along side Luke into what looked like would be a tie. Again, she pushed The General into overdrive, which pushed her just a hair ahead of her Viper and Luke in the last second. Luke tried desperately to catch up but the site of Enos standing at the finish line let Luke know that he had been beaten.
Far above the small group, Will watched the friendly race. He had witnessed Caitlin's behavior with Bo during the first race, his temper boiling from being forced to see how free she was with her hands on her lover. He now watched Bo helping a very excited Caitlin withdraw from the General's window. Bo had swooped her up into the air as she pulled her helmet off and her wild hair fell in abandon around both of their shoulders. Caitlin tossed the helmet into the General, her eyes never leaving Bo's. They were both giggling and Bo twirled her around, letting her slide down his body until she stood steadily on the ground. She soon found herself tossed back into the air as within seconds Luke had rushed to her and pulled her into a great bear hug as they were surrounded by their friends. Will hated the freedom Caitlin was experiencing. He hated watching the small affectionate touches she shared with Bo even when she was paying attention to someone else. Will swore revenge to both Caitlin and Bo before disappearing from sight.
With the group standing between The General and The Viper, Caitlin was congratulated while Luke was consoled and teased. Luke hugged Caitlin and said, "I should have known. You did good my sister." Later that evening Luke repeated the day's events to the crowd at the boar's nest and saluted Caitlin in her win against him. Everyone spent the rest of the night in good humor and pleasant thoughts for the next day's events.
The day of the race arrived. The excitement of the event touched all involved. Bo had become over protective and anxious as the time drew closer to the start of the race. His nervousness was infecting not only Caitlin, but also Aidan causing the horse to misbehave and become defiant. Caitlin kissed her beloved fiancé and then banished Bo to sit in the stands with uncle Jesse and Daisy. She asked Luke and Boss Hogg's trainer to assist her in getting ready for the race that day. Luke waited for Caitlin to finish dressing in her racing gear and then escorted her over to be weighed. She was silent throughout the rest of the morning as they waited. She refused to eat, only drinking a little water every now and then or munching down an ice chip. She was confident of her mount and of herself even after getting to meet and talk to some of her opponents. She had even walked through the waiting area where the horses where kept to appraise their skill and abilities. She was amazed at finding some hostile glances from some of the male riders. She had not experienced that in a long time, not since her first race when she was 15 yrs old and had lied to get into the race upon her father's disapproval. Caitlin purposely let her mind wander as she walked and waited for the day to begin.
Meanwhile Boss Hogg found the one person he was hoping would not show up parking outside of the courthouse. Will Sharp led his men through the courthouse into Boss Hogg's office. Will sat down in Boss's chair behind his desk and said, "Mr. Hogg, it's time. I need you to arrange to have those Duke's arrested so that I can take my property back."
Before Boss could respond, Rosco came into his office carrying a special envelope. He said, "Boss, I need to get over to the race track. I got this here telegram for Miss Rose."
Boss Hogg asked, "Can't it wait. She is racing soon. I got too much money on her for something to go wrong now."
Rosco said, "But Boss it says here it's an emergency."
Boss Hogg dismissed Rosco, "just save it until after the race. Do you hear me!"
Will nodded at Bronco, who stepped in front of Rosco preventing him from leaving the office. Will inquired, "Sheriff, may I ask what the emergency is?"
Rosco sighed in sympathy, "seems her father's met with an accident."
Boss Hogg said, "I know, I know what it says. We got one earlier this morning."
Will smiled, "Yes I know. Mr. Rose was shot." Looking at both Rosco and Boss Hogg in warning, Will continued, "Because that is what happens to people who get in my father's way. And Mr. Hogg it also happens to people who get in my way. Now what does the rest of the telegram say?"
Rosco swallowed his fear, "well ummm... it says because she didn't answer the first telegram her uncle is coming to get her and should be here in a few days. He wants to take her home. Boss, he wants you to arrange to have someone take care of Miss Rose's property. He's already made arrangements to have a professional moving company come to pack her things and get her horses back to New York."
Will looked at Bronco and Jack. He smiled evilly, "We've got her gentleman. Mr. Hogg this is our chance."
Boss asked, "What are you talking about?"
Will looked at Boss sternly, "you do remember our deal?"
Boss replied gruffly, "Yeah I remember I held up my end of the bargain. You and your boys got to hide out for awhile, make plans to get out of the country like you promised; well I helped you escape, let you have run of my western union, now it's time for you leave."
Will asked, "What about the other part, Mr. Hogg. Don't you want your cut of the ransom when we get it?"
Boss returned, "No I don't. I don't believe we should bother the little lady any more. And I already got twice what you paid me anyway through her and that horse of hers."
Will stood up letting his height intimidate Boss Hogg. Jack and Bronco cornered Rosco just inside the office. Will explained, a threatening tone very evident in his voice, "I don't think you understand, Mr. Hogg, I don't like people who double cross me. That let me explain something to you. I am going to take Caitlin. You can help me and be rewarded. Or my men and I will do it on our own. Then you, my friend, will have the same fate as others who have disappointed me." Will took a piece of paper and pen from Boss's desk. He wrote a figure of numbers on it and gave it to Boss to read. He explained, "Mr. Hogg, my friend, do you see those numbers? This one," he pointed to the top figure, "is the amount Caitlin inherits if her father dies. Do you think she will pay her own ransom? Now do you see this figure," he pointed to his second figure, "is the ransom. Plenty for all of us to share. If you help me to strike now with her father in the hospital, her Uncle Charles will pay any amount to get her back."
Boss countered, "I can't spend no ransom money in prison. And I won't be a party to you hurting the girl."
Will smiled, "I see she has made an impression on you, Mr. Hogg. But I don't think you quite understand what the top figure means. So, let me explain it to you. You know your problem of the Duke family and that mortgage you own on their farm? That mortgage won't exist anymore once Bo marries Caitlin."
That thought had never occurred to Boss Hogg and he choked, "You mean the Duke family will be rich?" The thought was distasteful to Boss Hogg unless that meant the Duke family moving out of Hazzard County for good. However, another thought of the possibilities and business opportunities for Boss Hogg should the Dukes and their rich bride stay in Hazzard made the idea more palatable.
Will knew he had touched on Boss's weakness. He suggested, "I don't want to hurt the lady. I wanted her for myself, Mr. Hogg. But if I can't have her don't you think it is fair that I get what she owes me. Wouldn't you like a piece of the pie that Bo Duke is getting?"
An idea came to Jack Dannon. He cleared his throat and suggested, "Mr. Hogg, we could even make sure that Bo doesn't get to marry his rose. You have wanted to get Bo and Luke back into jail for a very long time haven't you? We could arrange for them to be blamed for the kidnapping while we get away with the ransom money."
In the hall outside, Rosco saw Enos sit down at his desk near Boss's door. Rosco got Enos's attention. Enos observed all the dangerous men surrounding Boss and Rosco. Before anyone could notice that he was there, Enos made himself comfortable with his feet on his desk, and his hat over his face as if he were taking a nap. He heard Will and the other men explaining to Boss and Rosco how they were going to frame Bo and Luke for Caitlin's kidnapping. To his disappointment, he heard Boss Hogg laugh in agreement of the plan. Boss even joked that he finally found the perfect wedding gift for the happy couple. Boss Hogg then demanded, "But I don't want nothing stopping that horse race. I've already got too much money on that girl to win. She has got to race."
Will nodded, "You are, right Mr. Hogg. One more day will not make a difference. Besides, I planned to wager on her myself. Remember I have actually seen her race before; I know what she is capable of."
Jack Dannon instructed, "Sheriff, tomorrow I will call you with the signal for you to keep the Dukes away from Caitlin's ranch. I don't think you all should know more."
Rosco protested, "But wait! I can't! I won't."
Boss Hogg pushed past Will and smacked Rosco's arm, "Yes you will Rosco P. Coltrane! You'll do everything these men tell you." Boss than sneered, "and do it right this time."
Rosco was unsure. He did not like the plan or the dangerous men Boss Hogg had just made a deal with. Then Rosco saw Boss face Will. Rosco noticed Boss with his hand behind his back, his chubby fingers crossed and hidden in his sleeve. Rosco understood and he laughed excitedly, pretending to agree with the plan. Rosco promised to get those Duke boys out of the way.
With his business complete, Will informed Boss and Rosco that he would see them at the track later. He sternly advised them not to double cross him. He said that they were going to be watched by one of his men at all times. Will excused himself and was followed out of the building by Bronco and Jack. Bronco asked as soon as they were of the building, "You don't trust them do you, Will?"
Will sighed in frustration, "not at all. That's why we've got to move the hideout. Bronco, have Scott get things together and take them to that place we found in the next county. We can't have Sheriff Coltrane and Boss Hogg showing up to rescue My Rose and get the reward that Charles O'Toole will obviously offer." Smiling at his friends, "Now let's go see My Rose fly on that horse of hers."
Back inside the courthouse as soon as the coast was clear, Enos jumped up and went through the papers on his desk. He pulled out a telegram he had received from an agent of the FBI named Jim Brooks and several "Wanted" posters with pictures of Will and each of his friends. Enos hurried into Boss's office and was about to show his information to them. He heard Rosco asking, "Boss are you sure we should go through with this? I don't want anyone to get hurt or worse."
Enos presented the posters and telegram to Boss Hogg and Rosco. He asked if he could arrest Will and his men before they hurt someone. Boss Hogg calmed both Enos and Rosco down. He informed he did not intend to let Will Sharp hurt anyone. He said he had a plan and went about telling it to them. He ended the conversation by saying, "until then both of you do exactly what they say."
A couple of hours later, Boss waited for the horse race to begin from his private booth near the finish line. With his binoculars, he saw Will and his friends occupying another private booth high above the crowd. Will had his own set of binoculars and greeted Boss Hogg with a wave of his hand. Boss made sure to return the greeting with a wave of his cigar. Boss Hogg turned his binoculars to the standing room only section in front of the track. He could see Jesse Duke, Daisy, and Bo standing with Cooter near the center railing. It was obvious that Bo was agitated, as he gripped the railing and then pounded on it every few seconds. An announcement came over the loudspeaker letting them know it was time for the sixth race. The racing card for that day had listed twelve events. Caitlin was to be in race number eight. So far, she was not listed as the favorite to win being an unknown at the track. Boss Hogg hoped she would remain the long shot.
In the horse's circle, Caitlin allowed herself to relax and joked around with Luke. It took the two of them to keep Aidan from getting too excited with all the other horses around. Caitlin again felt her wild hair trying to escape her racing helmet. From the bag that Luke carried, Caitlin retrieved a few more hairpins and proceeded to add them to her hair. She breathed in the fresh air of the waiting area and raised her face to the warmth of the sun. She visualized Bo's happy baby blue eyes waiting for her at the end of the finish line. She was grateful for the cool summer breeze that kept stealing her hair from under its cap. She tried to get a good feel of the speed and direction of the wind. She wanted to know just how much of nature she would be fighting around the racetrack that afternoon. Taking another very deep breath, she finally began to feel the familiar excitement of the race infecting her. She quickly did a few stretches as the sixth race began. Then the seventh race riders mounted their horses and were led toward the starting gate. Luke asked her if she was OK. Caitlin nodded to him. She wanted to immerse herself in just the race and Aidan. She thought of her father and uncle at that moment and wished they were there to see her. That brought a few tears to her eyes and Luke hugged her. One of the many organizers of the races rushed over to Luke and Caitlin and told them it was time.
Caitlin acknowledged the man and then allowed Luke to give her a leg up into her saddle. Caitlin fixed her legs into the stirrups. She patted Aidan's neck and nuzzled near the horses ear. She cooed, "All right, Baby Aidan, let's show these 'ol boys' some of your black magic!" Aidan nodded his head and whinnied in agreement, the sound almost like a laugh of confidence.
The winner of the sixth race was being announced and the start of the seventh race began. Luke and Boss Hogg's trainer led Aidan and Caitlin down the path to the starting gate. The trio was careful not to let Aidan get too close to any of the other horses. Now the seventh race was over and it was time for the eighth race to begin. Caitlin thanked Luke and the other man for their help as they loaded her into the starting gate. Luke patted Aidan's flank and added in excited encouragement, "Let's win this!" Caitlin smiled even though she barely heard him. She was entering into race mode in her brain and body. She felt herself becoming attuned to Aidan and he with her. She ignored everything else around her and just waited for the gates to open.
From his secluded booth, Will had been having a good day. Three of the horses that he had bet on had won. So far, they had been a relaxing day including the company of several beautiful southern women draping themselves over he and his men. They were all enjoying several bottles of beer and a catered fare of food. Will looked over to see Bronco holding his own set of binoculars and looking out at the track.
Bronco felt Will's eyes upon him. Bronco made sure he did not keep his binoculars focused only on Caitlin. Instead, he turned most of his attention to the red head known as Daisy standing near Bo. Bronco heard the calling for the eighth race to begin. Both he and Will focused their binoculars on the starting gate. The race began, the horses exploding out of the gate and onto the track. Caitlin immediately took fourth in the running. They watched her set the pace she needed to keep until it was time to let Aidan have his lead to run. Overhead the announcer called out the places of each horse and other riders.
In Boss Hogg's racing box, he looked at the program again to see the list of horses. Caitlin's horse had been listed as "Aidan's Magic" from The Rose Barn, Hazzard County. The other names of the horses included were: Hunter's Run, GenuineGennie, Winter'sHope, Adventure's Smile, MasterScion, Van'sWyn, Delight's Revenge, WyndyWendy, Tornado'sFury. There were ten in all. The first turn held Tornado'sFury in first, MasterScion in Second, and Winter's Hope in third. Aidan's Magic held back in fifth place with Delight's Revenge trying to pin her on the inside rail.
From his vantage point, Bo called out curses to the rider preventing his "Caiti-Girl" from coming away from the rail. He could not see her in the midst of the other horses. The pack flew past his viewpoint and the next time they came by would be the end of the race. As he watched the pack head to the next turn, he saw Aidan's colors edging to the outside. The announcer had too and let the crowd know. Bo was shouting with echoes of Daisy, Jesse, and Cooter voices joining his.
Will called out instructions to Caitlin as if she could hear him. He applauded her move to the outside and said, "That-a-girl!" when she moved into third place. As the pack neared the final turn, Will spoke to the window, "Ok, Baby! Now...let him loose!"
Caitlin had fought very hard to get away from the wall, the rider of Delight's Revenge not making it easy. He kept nudging too close trying to spook Aidan. But Caitlin heard Aidan snort and knew it was time. She gave a nudge with her reigns looking for even the tiniest of openings. As soon as she found it, she moved to the outside. The moment she past the final turn, She shouted to Aidan, "Fly Baby! It's Magic Time!" Aidan and Caitlin again became one being, Aidan shot forward with a burst of speed.
Overhead the race was called. "Around the final turn comes Tornado's Fury, Master Scion.... wait...Aidan's Magic has moved to Third position...there he goes...Tornado's Fury...Master...Aidan...now...Tornado...Aidan moving past MasterScion.... Scion trying to recover...but Aidan has set his sight on Tornado's Fury. They are running neck and neck...Tornado's Fury...Aidan's Magic...Aidan's Magic...wait...wait....
Boss Hogg watched Aidan and Tornado's Fury cross the finish line together. The race could not be called until the video could be reviewed...it was a photo finish. He hurried out of his booth toward the winner's circle just in case.
A few minutes later, Bo raced toward the winners' circle where he found news reporters surrounding Caitlin still astride Aidan. The photo finish had been called and she was the victor. She held a trophy; a garland of flowers had been placed around Aidan's neck. Bo pushed past the reporters to find Luke helping to keep Aidan calm in the midst of the rush of the crowd. Aidan's eyes were wide with distrust. But he remained in check as he still felt the relaxed way Caitlin sat in her saddle. A reporter asked if he could take her picture. He said he was from a major paper in Atlanta. Caitlin did not hesitate. She wanted her family to see that she was racing again and winning. Caitlin handed the trophy to Luke and pulled her racing helmet from her head. She caught her long braid as it fell and removed the hairpins keeping together. She shook out the braid until her hair fell over her shoulders in a mass of wavy curls. Taking the trophy back, she smiled at the photographer. Her smiled brightened just as he stepped up to take the photograph and Bo had come forward at the same time.
Bo stepped past the reporter, reached for Caitlin's waste, and helped her dismounted into his excited embrace. He held her in the air for a few seconds letting her hair to go his cheeks and the sound of her giggles bring music his ears. He twirled her round and congratulated her on having won the race. All of this was noted by the reporters and other well-wishers with delight. The photographer wasted no time and snapped another photo of Caitlin Rose O'Toole with the "New Man" in her life...at least that is what the article would finally read in Atlanta Newspapers and then the New York City papers as the story was circulated throughout the country.
From his vantage point, Will watched the ceremonies in the winner's circle. He drank down the last drop of his beer and violently threw the bottle at one of the walls. He continued to watch the couple below him and his anticipation for the next day increased. He planned to force Caitlin to his will once again and after the ransom was paid, disappear with her. He had been informed that morning that his father's private plane was waiting for them in Atlanta. Will would be taking Caitlin to their new home, on an island in the Caribbean.
A few hours later, the Rose Barn was filled with people celebrating Caitlin's victory. Caitlin had arranged a barbecue for all of her friends in Hazzard County. There were picnic tables set up with food and plenty of beer. Lights had been strung up in a circle around the trees and her porch and a local band played music for them to dance to. Caitlin and Bo were not the perfect host and hostess however, preferring to keep to themselves instead of visiting and conversing with their family and friends about the days events. At one point Caitlin squeezed Bo's hand giving him a seductive smile, she picked up a couple of apples from a nearby table, and then made him watch her disappear into the barn. Bo had been in the middle of telling a friend how he had met Caitlin and could not get away to follow immediately.
Inside the barn, Caitlin was displaying affection and appreciation to Aidan for a nice day's work. Caitlin rewarded Aidan with one of the apples she had brought with her caressing the horse's neck and cheek as he ate. Bo watched her unguarded movements from the entrance of the barn. She was wearing the same peasant skirt that she had worn the night of their first date. Her waist was wrapped with the black lace shawl the delicate fringe swaying against the skirt and around her ankles. He only wished that she was still barefoot like she had been then. She wore leather sandals, each of her manicured toenails painted a deep red. Bo approached Caitlin and quietly gathered her into his embrace. They remained silent in each other's arms and enjoyed the taste of each other's lips. The music of the band reached their ears as they began a very romantic slow song. In the privacy of the barn, Caitlin danced with her Bo, her eyes never leaving his. No words were spoken except those coming silently through their eyes, lips, and touch. It was a dance to remember long after this night was over.
Caitlin awoke the next morning to feel of Bo's arms wrapped securely around her body. She felt so safe and so in love that she hesitated disturbing their sleep. Caitlin luxuriated in the feel of Bo's hard nude body pressed against her back. She remembered how they had gotten that way and a long night of love they had spent together. Even though her muscles ached from riding Aidan in the morning and Bo in the evening, Caitlin felt wonderful and alive.
The breathing against her ear changed and from the feeling of Bo's long hard body pressing against her hind end, Caitlin realized Bo was awake too. His hands began their gentle exploration as his lips brought life to her neck and back. Bo quickly found her nipple and prodded it to become ripe and hard within his fingers. Caitlin moaned under his touch and Bo smiled at her reaction. He used the weight of his body to keep her under him as his free hand to guided himself into her warm waiting body. He moved against her, reaching around her waist to find her clit, pushing her to the point of orgasm. He stopped just short of her completion and withdrew from her body for only a moment. His lips never left her skin, drenching every inch with his kiss.
Caitlin luxuriated within the lustful attentions of her lover. She felt herself being turned onto her back, her body being covered with Bo's, his lips never straying or leaving. Finally his lips reached hers and she captured his neck within her arms and returned his kiss with the same intensity he felt. Her tongue scrapped his teeth first, delving between his lips, conquering his tongue. She wrapped her legs around his waist and guided his length back inside, plunging him deeply into her swollen hot walls, her back arching to get more of him inside her. The tension between them increased and the gentle strokes became deep rough thrusts, Bo holding her against the bed preventing her from moving. Bo held Caitlin's hands above her head so he could freely tease her breasts and kiss them while her eyes held his. They watched their passion increase and heard each other's whimpers for release getting louder. Bo laughed in triumph as Caitlin closed her eyes to their passion first, seeking to go inside herself as she felt the tension in her body becoming delectably unbearable. He knew his lover, his Caitlin needed more...wanted to feel him deeper.
She used her leg as leverage and rolled the two of them so that she was astride him. She glided down his beautiful muscled body...leaving a trail of kisses to his nipples and hard belly. She entangled her fingers into his blonde mane as she used her body to devour him back into her body, opening her legs wide to reach the deepest part of her. Her mouth found his and they kissed through her third orgasm. She almost stopped breathing trying to enjoy every last second of the mountain she had just climbed. Her voice found itself in a low cry of satisfaction.
Bo held back loving to send her up the mountain over and over again. He manipulated her body with his hands, holding her neck above him and biting along its length, moving to her breasts as they hung over his mouth. They bounced wildly as she squeezed his waist and rode him again to another crest. He watched her become lost in sensation, her head thrown back, her eyes closed, her fingers digging into flesh. He got a good taste of the muscles she used to win the race with Aidan. He felt her body drenching him and he pushed her back up by teasing and biting her nipples and pinching them. As she got closer to cresting again, he pinched harder and harder, bit down.
Caitlin needed to stop...her body so tense from cresting...she slid down Bo's body, keeping her hands in constant contact with his skin. She found his shaft, taking him into her mouth, swirling her tongue a long his length, using one of her hands to press his legs apart, then exploring, teasing. She created a hard, fast rhythm that she slowed every time she felt him get close to orgasm.
Finally, Bo growled for her to stop! He pulled her up off him and rolled her back onto her back. He delved between her legs with his lips and returned the favor of pleasing her with his mouth, feeling her hands guiding his head to the right places. He too teased her, making her hold off on fully cresting until he heard her begging for release, then he pushed her over only to begin again. She was screaming for him to take her...to go over with her...to complete her. Bo laughed at her impatience and bit her clit, shoved two fingers inside of her. Now he made love to her with his hands and mouth feeling her ass grinding against his face and the bed. She had gripped the sheets on the bed and had trapped his head between her legs. Her head was completely laid back, she was not aware of being in the room just the sensations in her body. Bo worked her into a frenzy, upon another completion he pulled her to the edge of the bed and stood so that he could be buried hard and fast inside her while his hand continued to her clit. She was panting and crying. Her hands kept contact with Bo's body; lovingly caressing his thighs, his chest, reaching out to trace along his jaw line to his full lips. Her eyes begged him to keep making love to her, to join her in passion's end. Her body shined with effects of their lovemaking. Her hair tangled over her pillow and around her face. Bo slammed into her, his hands spreading her thighs very wide, his thumbs keeping her pleasure spot rolled to a hard, swollen pink knob. His mouth followed a trail of biting kisses from her belly up to her nipples and then to her neck. When he reached her mouth, he held back no longer and the two of them exploded into fireworks of light, love, and climax.
Bo collapsed a top Caitlin, barely holding himself from crushing her. He stroked her damp hair and told her how much he loved her. Caitlin snuggled under him, wanting to stay with him inside her for the rest of the morning. Within a few minutes, She felt Bo lay to one side of her with half his body on the mattress and half on top of her. He was caressing her cheeks and smoothing her hair while she caressed his back with the arm between him and the mattress. They fell back to sleep again sated with love's passion again, unaware of the dangerous storm approaching Hazzard County.
Between training Aidan, keeping her property maintenance, and exploring new bases of her relationship with Bo, the week before the race went by very quickly for Caitlin. She had even managed to lose a car race against Bo when he showed her the place where he had been a stock car racer. She had lost in her Viper of all things. But her revenge was sweet.
It was the day before the race and they had decided not to practice Aidan and let him wander about Rose Barn for the day with Brie for company. Caitlin met Bo and Luke at The Boars Nest for lunch and to visit with Daisy. She and Daisy had gone to Atlanta to get Caitlin her racing silks and other things they enjoyed shopping together for. Cooter, Enos, and even Rosco had joined them for beers. Since the night of Boss's toast to Bo and Caitlin, he had left Daisy instructions that if Caitlin wanted a glass of whiskey that she was to have his best...at a price of course. The mood was light and Luke nettled her about losing to Bo in her Viper. Bo did not jump to her defense and she was irritated with him. She wanted a little revenge.
Caitlin innocently asked who the better driver was...Bo or Luke. Her remark had gotten the response she was looking for...they each announced that they were the better of the two. Then Daisy and Rosco pronounced Luke the better driver; Cooter and Enos said that Bo was. By the time they were finished an argument had started. This allowed Caitlin to offer her solution. She challenged, "Let's go find out. Bo you take my viper, Luke you take The General."
Luke refused, "No, I'll take the Viper and Bo takes The General!"
Caitlin asked, "Does it matter. They are both fast cars...though because of my inexperience I could not push my baby to her best potential."
Luke replied, "That's why I want it, Caitlin."
Caitlin looked at Bo and said, "Well, is it a race?"
Several other voices around them edged them on. Daisy laughing, sensing exactly what Caitlin was going to do. Bo wanted to race his cousin...wanted to race using Caitlin's Viper. But from her pleading expression, he decided he could wait another day to experience its power. He had one brief thought...he wondered at Caitlin's remark about her inexperience using The Vipers for its speed. He had seen her drive, had been in the car along side her. The only reason he had beaten her that day was because she didn't know the track as well as he did. And he knew she was practicing, planning to race him again. He loved that competitive spirit she had, that need to win...to do her best and get better. He saw the challenge in Luke's face and the taunt on Caitlin's and agreed, "Let's do it!"
Caitlin looked at Luke and said, "One condition, I get to ride with Bo and the winner has to race me! And then if you beat me, I will have to forfeit what ever price you ask me to pay." That remark brought out an applause and "go get her" from those around them.
Bo and Luke looked at each other and then shook hands in agreement. Within a few minutes, they had all relocated to the stockcar track. Bo and Caitlin sat side by side in The General and Luke in The Viper. Enos called out the start and the race was on. Caitlin held on...the adrenaline of the speed arousing her senses. It was a like a drug and her whole body tingled. Bo and Luke stayed even with each other around the first turn of the track and continued that way through two laps. Caitlin had hoped that Luke would beat his cousin. But they seemed to be very evenly matched. On any other day, Caitlin would have relished Bo's expertise at the wheel. But she needed to help Luke. Knowing that Bo was not paying attention to her, Caitlin inched closer to him, her hand seductively caressing the gearshift like she had caressed Bo's body the night before. A wicked smile touched the corners of her mouth and then she ran her tongue over her lips as Bo's focus slightly swayed and his eyes dipped to watch her movements for a fraction of a second.
Bo smiled and teased, "My Caiti-Girl, you need to find some place else to put your hand, Darlin. Or I'm gonna lose!"
Caitlin nodded, "Oh, OK." She retrieved her hand and waited for him to ignore her again.
Bo returned his attention to the track. But he could not concentrate; the lower half of his body was becoming alive with familiar sensations. Fingers were loosening his shirt and then a hand rested on his upper thigh. He looked at Caitlin and she smiled seductively, "For Good Luck!"
From the Viper, Luke watched Bo drop back for a brief instant, but not long enough to let Luke get ahead of him. Luke downshifted to get more speed from the Viper and was rewarded with another increase...he was pushing 190mph...Bo again matching him. Luke laughed to himself wondering how he had gotten into this race. He knew full well that he and Bo were evenly matched in their racing skills...Bo a little better when push came to shove. Luke knew he had the edge only because of the newer more powerful engine of the Viper and his ability to harness it.
Bo had a problem. He wanted to beat his cousin to race against Caitlin again. He knew exactly what price he would demand once he crossed the finish line ahead of her. But she was making his ability to concentrate rough. He liked the feeling of her hand resting on his thigh and resumed his involvement in the race. They had just entered the last lap and had crossed the first turn. He nudged ahead of Luke, staying to inside of the track. Again his concentration was blown.
Caitlin pressed herself into Bo's side at just the right calculated moment. She let her hand travel further across his thigh while breathing kisses to his neck. He looked at her and she gave him a look he had come to desire in the past few days. He knew what she wanted. He suddenly gave up the race, The General slowing to a halt with his foot on the break. Bo threw the gearshift into park and fiercely pulled Caitlin against him. He growled in frustration as his mouth found hers while her hands roamed over him. He heard her purr satisfactorily and then laugh a deep throaty laugh. The noise of a horn and a gunshot was heard outside The General announcing that Luke had crossed the finish line and won. Bo eased up on Caitlin and looked deep into her eyes. He stated, "You wanted me to lose, didn't you."
The gold in Caitlin's teasing eyes danced before him, "How could you tell." Then she threw herself back into kisses, pressing against him as hard and as much as she could. Loud footsteps and voices coming toward them interrupted their embrace. Luke looked into the General and challenged, "So, Miss Rose, you ready to race the best Duke Racer!"
Caitlin replied in mock sweetness, "I was...but now I guess I'll have to race you."
She asked, "Do you want the Viper again? Or me?"
Luke asked, "You'd race the General! But..." He saw the teasing, challenge in her eyes, and said, "Let's go! Come on, Bo, no giving her pointers. I know exactly what your Rose is going to do for me when this is over!"
Caitlin said, "What, pray tell, is that?"
Luke said, "Oh, just some of that chicken Bo keeps bragging about...and maybe taking your Viper for a long drive to see a friend of mine."
Caitlin smiled, "Is she pretty?"
Luke smiled but didn't answer.
Caitlin returned, "Ok, Mr. Duke, but If I beat you, this Saturday after the race you have to run some errands for me and let Bo and I have the day to ourselves! I need a whole list of supplies. Oh and you have to tell everyone at The Boars Nest that I kicked ass on this track."
Luke agreed, "Deal!" He now understood why they were racing. His remark...she wanted revenge. Well he planned to have the last laugh.
Bo watched his cousin and his fiancée shake hands. He wanted to warn Luke about Caitlin's skill, but Caitlin would kill him. He stood helplessly thinking, "Luke, you screwed with the wrong woman! Have fun with those errands on Saturday."
Again, Luke entered the driver's side of the Viper and Bo helped Caitlin back into the General and got her buckled in and a helmet on this time. Bo was about to give Caitlin some advice about the race. Caitlin shook him off and asked him to just let her go. Bo took it upon himself to start the race. Before the word "Go" died on his lips, the Viper and The General flew past him in their second race against each other. Bo hurried off to the sidelines where Enos, Cooter, and Daisy watched the race.
Luke and Caitlin drove side by side around the racetrack staying tied. Luke tried to get Caitlin to notice him, but just as she had done when riding Aidan, her focus was totally on the task a head of her. There was no smile on her face, her lips tightened together as she listened to The General's engine in order to shift at the right moment, to pull more speed from his engine. Luke became determined to beat Caitlin. He did not want the embarrassment of losing to her twice. He waited for the next turn and maneuvered to the inside to pull a head of The General by almost two car lengths. He blew The Viper's horn in celebration. Caitlin remained on The Viper's bumper fighting to get around it. She waited patiently for her chance. As they rounded the last turn of the last lap, Caitlin finally smiled. She spoke, "Ok, General Lee, Give me everything you've got Sweetheart!" then she downshifted and pushed the gas pedal to the floor until she heard the engine go into overdrive. By the time they came out of the turn onto the last straightaway, she had managed to pull along side Luke into what looked like would be a tie. Again, she pushed The General into overdrive, which pushed her just a hair ahead of her Viper and Luke in the last second. Luke tried desperately to catch up but the site of Enos standing at the finish line let Luke know that he had been beaten.
Far above the small group, Will watched the friendly race. He had witnessed Caitlin's behavior with Bo during the first race, his temper boiling from being forced to see how free she was with her hands on her lover. He now watched Bo helping a very excited Caitlin withdraw from the General's window. Bo had swooped her up into the air as she pulled her helmet off and her wild hair fell in abandon around both of their shoulders. Caitlin tossed the helmet into the General, her eyes never leaving Bo's. They were both giggling and Bo twirled her around, letting her slide down his body until she stood steadily on the ground. She soon found herself tossed back into the air as within seconds Luke had rushed to her and pulled her into a great bear hug as they were surrounded by their friends. Will hated the freedom Caitlin was experiencing. He hated watching the small affectionate touches she shared with Bo even when she was paying attention to someone else. Will swore revenge to both Caitlin and Bo before disappearing from sight.
With the group standing between The General and The Viper, Caitlin was congratulated while Luke was consoled and teased. Luke hugged Caitlin and said, "I should have known. You did good my sister." Later that evening Luke repeated the day's events to the crowd at the boar's nest and saluted Caitlin in her win against him. Everyone spent the rest of the night in good humor and pleasant thoughts for the next day's events.
The day of the race arrived. The excitement of the event touched all involved. Bo had become over protective and anxious as the time drew closer to the start of the race. His nervousness was infecting not only Caitlin, but also Aidan causing the horse to misbehave and become defiant. Caitlin kissed her beloved fiancé and then banished Bo to sit in the stands with uncle Jesse and Daisy. She asked Luke and Boss Hogg's trainer to assist her in getting ready for the race that day. Luke waited for Caitlin to finish dressing in her racing gear and then escorted her over to be weighed. She was silent throughout the rest of the morning as they waited. She refused to eat, only drinking a little water every now and then or munching down an ice chip. She was confident of her mount and of herself even after getting to meet and talk to some of her opponents. She had even walked through the waiting area where the horses where kept to appraise their skill and abilities. She was amazed at finding some hostile glances from some of the male riders. She had not experienced that in a long time, not since her first race when she was 15 yrs old and had lied to get into the race upon her father's disapproval. Caitlin purposely let her mind wander as she walked and waited for the day to begin.
Meanwhile Boss Hogg found the one person he was hoping would not show up parking outside of the courthouse. Will Sharp led his men through the courthouse into Boss Hogg's office. Will sat down in Boss's chair behind his desk and said, "Mr. Hogg, it's time. I need you to arrange to have those Duke's arrested so that I can take my property back."
Before Boss could respond, Rosco came into his office carrying a special envelope. He said, "Boss, I need to get over to the race track. I got this here telegram for Miss Rose."
Boss Hogg asked, "Can't it wait. She is racing soon. I got too much money on her for something to go wrong now."
Rosco said, "But Boss it says here it's an emergency."
Boss Hogg dismissed Rosco, "just save it until after the race. Do you hear me!"
Will nodded at Bronco, who stepped in front of Rosco preventing him from leaving the office. Will inquired, "Sheriff, may I ask what the emergency is?"
Rosco sighed in sympathy, "seems her father's met with an accident."
Boss Hogg said, "I know, I know what it says. We got one earlier this morning."
Will smiled, "Yes I know. Mr. Rose was shot." Looking at both Rosco and Boss Hogg in warning, Will continued, "Because that is what happens to people who get in my father's way. And Mr. Hogg it also happens to people who get in my way. Now what does the rest of the telegram say?"
Rosco swallowed his fear, "well ummm... it says because she didn't answer the first telegram her uncle is coming to get her and should be here in a few days. He wants to take her home. Boss, he wants you to arrange to have someone take care of Miss Rose's property. He's already made arrangements to have a professional moving company come to pack her things and get her horses back to New York."
Will looked at Bronco and Jack. He smiled evilly, "We've got her gentleman. Mr. Hogg this is our chance."
Boss asked, "What are you talking about?"
Will looked at Boss sternly, "you do remember our deal?"
Boss replied gruffly, "Yeah I remember I held up my end of the bargain. You and your boys got to hide out for awhile, make plans to get out of the country like you promised; well I helped you escape, let you have run of my western union, now it's time for you leave."
Will asked, "What about the other part, Mr. Hogg. Don't you want your cut of the ransom when we get it?"
Boss returned, "No I don't. I don't believe we should bother the little lady any more. And I already got twice what you paid me anyway through her and that horse of hers."
Will stood up letting his height intimidate Boss Hogg. Jack and Bronco cornered Rosco just inside the office. Will explained, a threatening tone very evident in his voice, "I don't think you understand, Mr. Hogg, I don't like people who double cross me. That let me explain something to you. I am going to take Caitlin. You can help me and be rewarded. Or my men and I will do it on our own. Then you, my friend, will have the same fate as others who have disappointed me." Will took a piece of paper and pen from Boss's desk. He wrote a figure of numbers on it and gave it to Boss to read. He explained, "Mr. Hogg, my friend, do you see those numbers? This one," he pointed to the top figure, "is the amount Caitlin inherits if her father dies. Do you think she will pay her own ransom? Now do you see this figure," he pointed to his second figure, "is the ransom. Plenty for all of us to share. If you help me to strike now with her father in the hospital, her Uncle Charles will pay any amount to get her back."
Boss countered, "I can't spend no ransom money in prison. And I won't be a party to you hurting the girl."
Will smiled, "I see she has made an impression on you, Mr. Hogg. But I don't think you quite understand what the top figure means. So, let me explain it to you. You know your problem of the Duke family and that mortgage you own on their farm? That mortgage won't exist anymore once Bo marries Caitlin."
That thought had never occurred to Boss Hogg and he choked, "You mean the Duke family will be rich?" The thought was distasteful to Boss Hogg unless that meant the Duke family moving out of Hazzard County for good. However, another thought of the possibilities and business opportunities for Boss Hogg should the Dukes and their rich bride stay in Hazzard made the idea more palatable.
Will knew he had touched on Boss's weakness. He suggested, "I don't want to hurt the lady. I wanted her for myself, Mr. Hogg. But if I can't have her don't you think it is fair that I get what she owes me. Wouldn't you like a piece of the pie that Bo Duke is getting?"
An idea came to Jack Dannon. He cleared his throat and suggested, "Mr. Hogg, we could even make sure that Bo doesn't get to marry his rose. You have wanted to get Bo and Luke back into jail for a very long time haven't you? We could arrange for them to be blamed for the kidnapping while we get away with the ransom money."
In the hall outside, Rosco saw Enos sit down at his desk near Boss's door. Rosco got Enos's attention. Enos observed all the dangerous men surrounding Boss and Rosco. Before anyone could notice that he was there, Enos made himself comfortable with his feet on his desk, and his hat over his face as if he were taking a nap. He heard Will and the other men explaining to Boss and Rosco how they were going to frame Bo and Luke for Caitlin's kidnapping. To his disappointment, he heard Boss Hogg laugh in agreement of the plan. Boss even joked that he finally found the perfect wedding gift for the happy couple. Boss Hogg then demanded, "But I don't want nothing stopping that horse race. I've already got too much money on that girl to win. She has got to race."
Will nodded, "You are, right Mr. Hogg. One more day will not make a difference. Besides, I planned to wager on her myself. Remember I have actually seen her race before; I know what she is capable of."
Jack Dannon instructed, "Sheriff, tomorrow I will call you with the signal for you to keep the Dukes away from Caitlin's ranch. I don't think you all should know more."
Rosco protested, "But wait! I can't! I won't."
Boss Hogg pushed past Will and smacked Rosco's arm, "Yes you will Rosco P. Coltrane! You'll do everything these men tell you." Boss than sneered, "and do it right this time."
Rosco was unsure. He did not like the plan or the dangerous men Boss Hogg had just made a deal with. Then Rosco saw Boss face Will. Rosco noticed Boss with his hand behind his back, his chubby fingers crossed and hidden in his sleeve. Rosco understood and he laughed excitedly, pretending to agree with the plan. Rosco promised to get those Duke boys out of the way.
With his business complete, Will informed Boss and Rosco that he would see them at the track later. He sternly advised them not to double cross him. He said that they were going to be watched by one of his men at all times. Will excused himself and was followed out of the building by Bronco and Jack. Bronco asked as soon as they were of the building, "You don't trust them do you, Will?"
Will sighed in frustration, "not at all. That's why we've got to move the hideout. Bronco, have Scott get things together and take them to that place we found in the next county. We can't have Sheriff Coltrane and Boss Hogg showing up to rescue My Rose and get the reward that Charles O'Toole will obviously offer." Smiling at his friends, "Now let's go see My Rose fly on that horse of hers."
Back inside the courthouse as soon as the coast was clear, Enos jumped up and went through the papers on his desk. He pulled out a telegram he had received from an agent of the FBI named Jim Brooks and several "Wanted" posters with pictures of Will and each of his friends. Enos hurried into Boss's office and was about to show his information to them. He heard Rosco asking, "Boss are you sure we should go through with this? I don't want anyone to get hurt or worse."
Enos presented the posters and telegram to Boss Hogg and Rosco. He asked if he could arrest Will and his men before they hurt someone. Boss Hogg calmed both Enos and Rosco down. He informed he did not intend to let Will Sharp hurt anyone. He said he had a plan and went about telling it to them. He ended the conversation by saying, "until then both of you do exactly what they say."
A couple of hours later, Boss waited for the horse race to begin from his private booth near the finish line. With his binoculars, he saw Will and his friends occupying another private booth high above the crowd. Will had his own set of binoculars and greeted Boss Hogg with a wave of his hand. Boss made sure to return the greeting with a wave of his cigar. Boss Hogg turned his binoculars to the standing room only section in front of the track. He could see Jesse Duke, Daisy, and Bo standing with Cooter near the center railing. It was obvious that Bo was agitated, as he gripped the railing and then pounded on it every few seconds. An announcement came over the loudspeaker letting them know it was time for the sixth race. The racing card for that day had listed twelve events. Caitlin was to be in race number eight. So far, she was not listed as the favorite to win being an unknown at the track. Boss Hogg hoped she would remain the long shot.
In the horse's circle, Caitlin allowed herself to relax and joked around with Luke. It took the two of them to keep Aidan from getting too excited with all the other horses around. Caitlin again felt her wild hair trying to escape her racing helmet. From the bag that Luke carried, Caitlin retrieved a few more hairpins and proceeded to add them to her hair. She breathed in the fresh air of the waiting area and raised her face to the warmth of the sun. She visualized Bo's happy baby blue eyes waiting for her at the end of the finish line. She was grateful for the cool summer breeze that kept stealing her hair from under its cap. She tried to get a good feel of the speed and direction of the wind. She wanted to know just how much of nature she would be fighting around the racetrack that afternoon. Taking another very deep breath, she finally began to feel the familiar excitement of the race infecting her. She quickly did a few stretches as the sixth race began. Then the seventh race riders mounted their horses and were led toward the starting gate. Luke asked her if she was OK. Caitlin nodded to him. She wanted to immerse herself in just the race and Aidan. She thought of her father and uncle at that moment and wished they were there to see her. That brought a few tears to her eyes and Luke hugged her. One of the many organizers of the races rushed over to Luke and Caitlin and told them it was time.
Caitlin acknowledged the man and then allowed Luke to give her a leg up into her saddle. Caitlin fixed her legs into the stirrups. She patted Aidan's neck and nuzzled near the horses ear. She cooed, "All right, Baby Aidan, let's show these 'ol boys' some of your black magic!" Aidan nodded his head and whinnied in agreement, the sound almost like a laugh of confidence.
The winner of the sixth race was being announced and the start of the seventh race began. Luke and Boss Hogg's trainer led Aidan and Caitlin down the path to the starting gate. The trio was careful not to let Aidan get too close to any of the other horses. Now the seventh race was over and it was time for the eighth race to begin. Caitlin thanked Luke and the other man for their help as they loaded her into the starting gate. Luke patted Aidan's flank and added in excited encouragement, "Let's win this!" Caitlin smiled even though she barely heard him. She was entering into race mode in her brain and body. She felt herself becoming attuned to Aidan and he with her. She ignored everything else around her and just waited for the gates to open.
From his secluded booth, Will had been having a good day. Three of the horses that he had bet on had won. So far, they had been a relaxing day including the company of several beautiful southern women draping themselves over he and his men. They were all enjoying several bottles of beer and a catered fare of food. Will looked over to see Bronco holding his own set of binoculars and looking out at the track.
Bronco felt Will's eyes upon him. Bronco made sure he did not keep his binoculars focused only on Caitlin. Instead, he turned most of his attention to the red head known as Daisy standing near Bo. Bronco heard the calling for the eighth race to begin. Both he and Will focused their binoculars on the starting gate. The race began, the horses exploding out of the gate and onto the track. Caitlin immediately took fourth in the running. They watched her set the pace she needed to keep until it was time to let Aidan have his lead to run. Overhead the announcer called out the places of each horse and other riders.
In Boss Hogg's racing box, he looked at the program again to see the list of horses. Caitlin's horse had been listed as "Aidan's Magic" from The Rose Barn, Hazzard County. The other names of the horses included were: Hunter's Run, GenuineGennie, Winter'sHope, Adventure's Smile, MasterScion, Van'sWyn, Delight's Revenge, WyndyWendy, Tornado'sFury. There were ten in all. The first turn held Tornado'sFury in first, MasterScion in Second, and Winter's Hope in third. Aidan's Magic held back in fifth place with Delight's Revenge trying to pin her on the inside rail.
From his vantage point, Bo called out curses to the rider preventing his "Caiti-Girl" from coming away from the rail. He could not see her in the midst of the other horses. The pack flew past his viewpoint and the next time they came by would be the end of the race. As he watched the pack head to the next turn, he saw Aidan's colors edging to the outside. The announcer had too and let the crowd know. Bo was shouting with echoes of Daisy, Jesse, and Cooter voices joining his.
Will called out instructions to Caitlin as if she could hear him. He applauded her move to the outside and said, "That-a-girl!" when she moved into third place. As the pack neared the final turn, Will spoke to the window, "Ok, Baby! Now...let him loose!"
Caitlin had fought very hard to get away from the wall, the rider of Delight's Revenge not making it easy. He kept nudging too close trying to spook Aidan. But Caitlin heard Aidan snort and knew it was time. She gave a nudge with her reigns looking for even the tiniest of openings. As soon as she found it, she moved to the outside. The moment she past the final turn, She shouted to Aidan, "Fly Baby! It's Magic Time!" Aidan and Caitlin again became one being, Aidan shot forward with a burst of speed.
Overhead the race was called. "Around the final turn comes Tornado's Fury, Master Scion.... wait...Aidan's Magic has moved to Third position...there he goes...Tornado's Fury...Master...Aidan...now...Tornado...Aidan moving past MasterScion.... Scion trying to recover...but Aidan has set his sight on Tornado's Fury. They are running neck and neck...Tornado's Fury...Aidan's Magic...Aidan's Magic...wait...wait....
Boss Hogg watched Aidan and Tornado's Fury cross the finish line together. The race could not be called until the video could be reviewed...it was a photo finish. He hurried out of his booth toward the winner's circle just in case.
A few minutes later, Bo raced toward the winners' circle where he found news reporters surrounding Caitlin still astride Aidan. The photo finish had been called and she was the victor. She held a trophy; a garland of flowers had been placed around Aidan's neck. Bo pushed past the reporters to find Luke helping to keep Aidan calm in the midst of the rush of the crowd. Aidan's eyes were wide with distrust. But he remained in check as he still felt the relaxed way Caitlin sat in her saddle. A reporter asked if he could take her picture. He said he was from a major paper in Atlanta. Caitlin did not hesitate. She wanted her family to see that she was racing again and winning. Caitlin handed the trophy to Luke and pulled her racing helmet from her head. She caught her long braid as it fell and removed the hairpins keeping together. She shook out the braid until her hair fell over her shoulders in a mass of wavy curls. Taking the trophy back, she smiled at the photographer. Her smiled brightened just as he stepped up to take the photograph and Bo had come forward at the same time.
Bo stepped past the reporter, reached for Caitlin's waste, and helped her dismounted into his excited embrace. He held her in the air for a few seconds letting her hair to go his cheeks and the sound of her giggles bring music his ears. He twirled her round and congratulated her on having won the race. All of this was noted by the reporters and other well-wishers with delight. The photographer wasted no time and snapped another photo of Caitlin Rose O'Toole with the "New Man" in her life...at least that is what the article would finally read in Atlanta Newspapers and then the New York City papers as the story was circulated throughout the country.
From his vantage point, Will watched the ceremonies in the winner's circle. He drank down the last drop of his beer and violently threw the bottle at one of the walls. He continued to watch the couple below him and his anticipation for the next day increased. He planned to force Caitlin to his will once again and after the ransom was paid, disappear with her. He had been informed that morning that his father's private plane was waiting for them in Atlanta. Will would be taking Caitlin to their new home, on an island in the Caribbean.
A few hours later, the Rose Barn was filled with people celebrating Caitlin's victory. Caitlin had arranged a barbecue for all of her friends in Hazzard County. There were picnic tables set up with food and plenty of beer. Lights had been strung up in a circle around the trees and her porch and a local band played music for them to dance to. Caitlin and Bo were not the perfect host and hostess however, preferring to keep to themselves instead of visiting and conversing with their family and friends about the days events. At one point Caitlin squeezed Bo's hand giving him a seductive smile, she picked up a couple of apples from a nearby table, and then made him watch her disappear into the barn. Bo had been in the middle of telling a friend how he had met Caitlin and could not get away to follow immediately.
Inside the barn, Caitlin was displaying affection and appreciation to Aidan for a nice day's work. Caitlin rewarded Aidan with one of the apples she had brought with her caressing the horse's neck and cheek as he ate. Bo watched her unguarded movements from the entrance of the barn. She was wearing the same peasant skirt that she had worn the night of their first date. Her waist was wrapped with the black lace shawl the delicate fringe swaying against the skirt and around her ankles. He only wished that she was still barefoot like she had been then. She wore leather sandals, each of her manicured toenails painted a deep red. Bo approached Caitlin and quietly gathered her into his embrace. They remained silent in each other's arms and enjoyed the taste of each other's lips. The music of the band reached their ears as they began a very romantic slow song. In the privacy of the barn, Caitlin danced with her Bo, her eyes never leaving his. No words were spoken except those coming silently through their eyes, lips, and touch. It was a dance to remember long after this night was over.
Caitlin awoke the next morning to feel of Bo's arms wrapped securely around her body. She felt so safe and so in love that she hesitated disturbing their sleep. Caitlin luxuriated in the feel of Bo's hard nude body pressed against her back. She remembered how they had gotten that way and a long night of love they had spent together. Even though her muscles ached from riding Aidan in the morning and Bo in the evening, Caitlin felt wonderful and alive.
The breathing against her ear changed and from the feeling of Bo's long hard body pressing against her hind end, Caitlin realized Bo was awake too. His hands began their gentle exploration as his lips brought life to her neck and back. Bo quickly found her nipple and prodded it to become ripe and hard within his fingers. Caitlin moaned under his touch and Bo smiled at her reaction. He used the weight of his body to keep her under him as his free hand to guided himself into her warm waiting body. He moved against her, reaching around her waist to find her clit, pushing her to the point of orgasm. He stopped just short of her completion and withdrew from her body for only a moment. His lips never left her skin, drenching every inch with his kiss.
Caitlin luxuriated within the lustful attentions of her lover. She felt herself being turned onto her back, her body being covered with Bo's, his lips never straying or leaving. Finally his lips reached hers and she captured his neck within her arms and returned his kiss with the same intensity he felt. Her tongue scrapped his teeth first, delving between his lips, conquering his tongue. She wrapped her legs around his waist and guided his length back inside, plunging him deeply into her swollen hot walls, her back arching to get more of him inside her. The tension between them increased and the gentle strokes became deep rough thrusts, Bo holding her against the bed preventing her from moving. Bo held Caitlin's hands above her head so he could freely tease her breasts and kiss them while her eyes held his. They watched their passion increase and heard each other's whimpers for release getting louder. Bo laughed in triumph as Caitlin closed her eyes to their passion first, seeking to go inside herself as she felt the tension in her body becoming delectably unbearable. He knew his lover, his Caitlin needed more...wanted to feel him deeper.
She used her leg as leverage and rolled the two of them so that she was astride him. She glided down his beautiful muscled body...leaving a trail of kisses to his nipples and hard belly. She entangled her fingers into his blonde mane as she used her body to devour him back into her body, opening her legs wide to reach the deepest part of her. Her mouth found his and they kissed through her third orgasm. She almost stopped breathing trying to enjoy every last second of the mountain she had just climbed. Her voice found itself in a low cry of satisfaction.
Bo held back loving to send her up the mountain over and over again. He manipulated her body with his hands, holding her neck above him and biting along its length, moving to her breasts as they hung over his mouth. They bounced wildly as she squeezed his waist and rode him again to another crest. He watched her become lost in sensation, her head thrown back, her eyes closed, her fingers digging into flesh. He got a good taste of the muscles she used to win the race with Aidan. He felt her body drenching him and he pushed her back up by teasing and biting her nipples and pinching them. As she got closer to cresting again, he pinched harder and harder, bit down.
Caitlin needed to stop...her body so tense from cresting...she slid down Bo's body, keeping her hands in constant contact with his skin. She found his shaft, taking him into her mouth, swirling her tongue a long his length, using one of her hands to press his legs apart, then exploring, teasing. She created a hard, fast rhythm that she slowed every time she felt him get close to orgasm.
Finally, Bo growled for her to stop! He pulled her up off him and rolled her back onto her back. He delved between her legs with his lips and returned the favor of pleasing her with his mouth, feeling her hands guiding his head to the right places. He too teased her, making her hold off on fully cresting until he heard her begging for release, then he pushed her over only to begin again. She was screaming for him to take her...to go over with her...to complete her. Bo laughed at her impatience and bit her clit, shoved two fingers inside of her. Now he made love to her with his hands and mouth feeling her ass grinding against his face and the bed. She had gripped the sheets on the bed and had trapped his head between her legs. Her head was completely laid back, she was not aware of being in the room just the sensations in her body. Bo worked her into a frenzy, upon another completion he pulled her to the edge of the bed and stood so that he could be buried hard and fast inside her while his hand continued to her clit. She was panting and crying. Her hands kept contact with Bo's body; lovingly caressing his thighs, his chest, reaching out to trace along his jaw line to his full lips. Her eyes begged him to keep making love to her, to join her in passion's end. Her body shined with effects of their lovemaking. Her hair tangled over her pillow and around her face. Bo slammed into her, his hands spreading her thighs very wide, his thumbs keeping her pleasure spot rolled to a hard, swollen pink knob. His mouth followed a trail of biting kisses from her belly up to her nipples and then to her neck. When he reached her mouth, he held back no longer and the two of them exploded into fireworks of light, love, and climax.
Bo collapsed a top Caitlin, barely holding himself from crushing her. He stroked her damp hair and told her how much he loved her. Caitlin snuggled under him, wanting to stay with him inside her for the rest of the morning. Within a few minutes, She felt Bo lay to one side of her with half his body on the mattress and half on top of her. He was caressing her cheeks and smoothing her hair while she caressed his back with the arm between him and the mattress. They fell back to sleep again sated with love's passion again, unaware of the dangerous storm approaching Hazzard County.