Author's Note: Please let me know how you like this so far with reviews.

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Jesse sat in his chair where he had managed to catch a few winks. He looked around his living room at his very close knit family. Jesse was very thankful as he looked around the room. Bo and Jeb were on each corner of the couch. Bo had Daisy's head on his shoulder and Jeb had her feet on his lap. The three had covered up with a large sleeping bag of Luke's. Coy, Vance, and Cooter were in the floor in other sleeping bags. Jesse's living room was full of love this morning, yet there was something missing -- Luke. Jesse eased up out of the chair. He was trying not to wake the sleeping teens. Jesse put on coffee and showered while the coffee perked. He poured his morning coffee looking at the clock. It was way too early to head to town. He went to the refrigerator and reached behind it, taking out a cookie tin. Opening it he found the rewards of several moonshine deliveries. He counted $500 and some change. He hoped he'd not need all of this but if it meant bring Luke home he would use it all. Jesse heard moving in the living room. They would be up soon. He would fix breakfast while they did the chores. Then he'd go to town and bring Luke home.

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At the Davenport farm, Dixie was up before her father. Cooter still hadn't showed up. She did know if there was trouble with the Dukes he'd be there and wouldn't have called if he thought it was too late. Yet, she worried. Dixie just knew deep down that what ever went down last night involved either Cooter or one of the Dukes OR both.

Luther Davenport was sure surprised to see his usually 'lazy bones' daughter not only up but fixing breakfast when he came into the kitchen. "Well, what's the occasion?"

"I didn't sleep to well last night. I got tired of trying so I got up." she said.

"Hummm." he said, "Anything wrong Honey?"

She wasn't to thrilled with telling her father what she suspected. "I was wanting to talk to Cooter last night so I was waiting on him. He didn't come home and didn't call. I guess he may be at the garage or at the Dukes." she said vaguely.

Her father gave her that 'He's a big boy. He can take care of himself.' look, but said, "Have you called either place?"

She replied, "No, I haven't. I was waiting until I knew they be awake."

Luther looked at the clock. "Jesse has been up for awhile now. I'll give them a call." he sighed.

"Daddy that's really OK. I'll call in a minute." She fixed her Dad a plate and refilled his cup before picking up the phone. There was no answer at the garage.

She dialed the Dukes number from memory.

Jesse answered thinking maybe it was the jail. "Duke Farm." he paused, "Yes, he is here, just a minute. Cooter." Jesse said holding the phone up.

Dixie wanted to know what was up IF anything without her Dad knowing just now. She had breathed a sigh of relief when Jesse said Cooter was there. "Hey, brother. " she tried to sound cheery. "Where were you last night."

Cooter being loyal to the Dukes, said only, "There was a bit of a problem last night. Everyone is OK. I decided to stay here and it was really late by then."

DA---! she thought. She now knew something was wrong. "I'll meet you all at the garage." she replied. "Bye." she finished. To her Dad, "He is at the Dukes. I'm going to go to the garage with you this morning." she said. "I'll be ready in fifteen minutes."

Luther looked up from his coffee as his daughter disappeared. He heard the shower turn on. True to her word she was ready in fifteen minutes. Luther wasn't. He watched her pace waiting on him to get ready. He didn't know what was up but knew something was going on.

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It seemed like Luke had just gotten to sleep when he was awaken by Peggy who had gotten the local dinner to deliver her two breakfasts to the jail. She had also made another pot of coffee. Luke was not really in the mood to eat but didn't want it to go to waste either. He began picking at food. The coffee helped the cobwebs in his head. He hadn't been drunk but had drank his share. The alcohol coupled with the lack of sleep made things a bit 'fuzzy' this morning. After finishing all of the breakfast he could, Luke set back on the bunk with his back against the wall, he asked, "What time is it?"

Peggy replied, "7:30am." she picked up the phone dialing a number from memory. "Good morning Judge Hardcastle this is Peggy."

Luke thought to himself. "Judge Hardcastle this is all I need."

There was a pause as she listened to the voice on the other end. Which had replied 'it was not going to be a good morning if she was calling him that early.'
"Sorry, I'm in Hazzard. I have you one arraignment." she picked up the paperwork and read from it, "Battery and Battery on a Police Officer" she paused, "State Police Mitchell and Worley" she paused again, listening, then answered the question, "Luke Duke."

Peggy was speaking low but in the small space and with Luke's good hearing he was able to hear much of her end of the conversation.

Peggy hung up the phone. "Judge Hardcastle will be in about 10:00 am."

Luke just nodded, and thought, " 10:00 am. Great! That's another two and half hours I'll be behind. Jesse won't be bit happy."

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It was just before 8am when Dixie and Luther pulled into the garage. Town seemed quiet. Dixie tried to busy herself with cleaning around the outside of the garage so she could watch for Cooter and the Dukes. About 8:30am she was relieved and worried when she saw Jesse's pickup pull onto the garage lot. Jesse was alone. He got out spoke to her and headed to her father. "Luther if you don't care I'm going to park out front a few minutes. I have to run over to the Courthouse."

Dixie had moved where she might be able to hear what was going on.

"Sure, Jesse, anything wrong?" questioned Jesse long time friend.

Jesse wasn't in the best mood so he grumbled slightly. "It seems Luke got into a fight after we left the Boar's Nest last night. What I'm afraid of though is, during the 'heat' of the fight he also hit one of the Troopers."

Dixie held her breath waiting to hear the rest.

Luther looked surprised, "The States were called?"

Jesse said, "From what the boys said, they must have just stopped by while the fight was going on."

"That's not good." replied Luther, "Who was he fighting?"

"No one knew why but Luke started it with Tommy Rogers." Jesse replied.
When Dixie heard this, she did know why! She now knew it was her fault Luke was in jail. She felt as if her heart went to her shoes. Tears welled up in her eyes. She quickly made her way to the restroom. She didn't want Jesse or her father to see her this upset. They would surely wonder why.

Unheard by Dixie, Luther stated, "A couple of nights ago, Dixie asked to go out with Tommy "

Jesse interrupted, "You surely didn't let her did you?"

Luther continued, "I said she could go to teen night with him. Luke was here and he did voice his protests. He said you wouldn't let Tommy ask Daisy out. I thought it was OK since we'd all be there. Luke also told me when he returned from getting those parts the other day that the date had went badly. He didn't go into details, just asked to take Dixie out to the Boar's Nest that night so she could meet some of their other friends."

In Jesse's mind things were becoming clearer. "Jesse figured something had happened on the date, Luke found out about it, Dixie must have asked him not to tell (from Luke's previous statements), Luke must have figured Mr. Rogers needed an attitude adjustment. Well, if that was it, he couldn't much blame Luke. He had also given Luke sort of the 'go ahead' to take care of the situation. Luke had also seemed resigned to the fact he may get into trouble, though hitting the Trooper wasn't part of it. Jesse would do what he could though it may not be enough to get Luke out of this Scott Free."

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It was just before 10:00 am when Peggy unlocked the gate at the bottom of the steps she was going up to make sure things were set upstairs.

Luke asked, "If Jesse's up there, will you tell him my wallet is in the glove box of the General?"

Peggy nodded, "Sure will."

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With the morning chores done at the farm, Cooter, Bo, Jeb, Coy, Vance and Daisy had came into town. Seeing Jesse's pickup at the garage they parked there. Jesse was still watching for the Judge to arrive. He knew there was no point going over until then. When Jesse saw the Judge pull up he told the 'kids' to stay there. They all insisted on going. Jesse compromised, "Bo, come on. This might be a lesson to you, before you get some dang foul notion in YOUR head. The rest of you stay put."

Bo followed Jesse's quick pace across Hazzard Square to the Courthouse. Once inside, Peggy told Jesse about Luke's wallet. Jesse said, "Bo go get it and hurry. Luke must think we'll need it." Bo was gone in an instance.
Bo returned with Luke's wallet just as Peggy was bringing Luke to see the Judge. Much to Bo's surprise and Luke's annoyance he was handcuffed before being brought upstairs due to the Courtroom upstairs being such an open area. It seemed to bother Bo more seeing Luke in the cuffs than it did Luke to wear them, though he was not crazy about the idea.

The Judge read the complaint. The Trooper swore to the complaint. Luke was read his rights. Judge Hardcastle said, "You were charged with Battery and Battery on a Police Officer. I take Battery on a Police Officer very serious. I am setting bond at $600.00."

Luke looked at Jesse who nodded negatively. At the same time Bo opened Lukes' wallet. In it was the $100 he'd won from Ralph and $200 he'd made working at the garage. Bo handed Jesse the money.

Judge Hardcastle asked, "Mr. Duke are you prepared to go his bond?"

Jesse replied, "Yes, Sir, I am.

"I'll prepare the release. Your hearing date is two weeks from today. 10:00 am."

Said Judge Hardcastle nodding at Peggy to go ahead and remove the cuffs.
Luke managed to say, "Thank you, Your Honor." as Peggy removed the handcuffs.

"I'll get your things." stated Peggy as the paperwork was being finished.

Once Luke's property was return and the paperwork signed. He was free to go. Judge Hardcastle had reminded him, "Don't leave the County without permission."

Luke said, "Yes, Sir." As the three Dukes heading out of the Courthouse.

Once outside, Bo grabbed Luke's arm rather hard, "Do you care to explain what was with you last night attacking him like that?"

Luke pulled his arm back, and answered, "No, I don't!" he walked on out the door. Luke knew that it would not be so easy to get Jesse to drop it.

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The others were at the garage as Bo, Luke and Jesse were walking toward the garage. They all noticed Luke looked just a bit tired and unkept. Dixie got a glimpse before he actually got to the garage, she knew she'd have to act like nothing was wrong.

Luke was greeted as though he'd been gone years not hours. Jesse knew getting them back to the farm anytime soon wasn't going to happen. There were things that needed done and he wanted to talk to Luke soon. He acted madder than he was once he could get a word in edge wise. "I'm heading back to the farm. I want you all there by noon. I'll have lunch ready." He added.

Once Jesse was out of sight in the truck, Cooter handed Luke a beer. Luke replied, "Thanks, Cooter. Now all I want to do is get home to a shower."

"There's a shower in the back." said Cooter.

The others convinced Luke to shower there instead of leaving now. Luke took his beer and headed to the shower. Though Bo and Luke had there moments they both knew they could really count on the other one. Bo went to the General Lee taking out a set of clothes for Luke. He reached in the frig and took out another beer on his way to the back of the garage. He knocked on the small bathroom door, and said, "Luke, clothes are on the stool out here."

Knowing Bo wasn't mad at him, he smiled, "Thanks, Bo." He opened the door to get the clothes before getting into the shower seeing the second beer on top of the clothes. Luke had seen the painful look in Dixie's eyes, he knew what she had been thinking. Now all he had to do was to get ride of everyone else so he could talk to her before he went home, but first to shower and shave. In the small medicine cabinet he located a couple new razors. He climbed into the hot shower. Luke let the hot water sooth his tired body for several minutes before he proceeded to bath. He then shaved from feel while in the shower. In the medicine cabinet was also some aftershave and deodorant, that he and Cooter had kept there for times they had gotten wet and or muddy pulling out Rosco. He opened his second beer as he dressed. He knew better than to get drunk and go home but a couple of beers wouldn't hurt UNLESS Jesse found out!

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Luke came back to the garage area sipping on his second beer. Luther was now gone in the wrecker.

Cooter tried an attempt to be 'funny', "Hey, Lucas what kinda birds don't fly?"

It was an old joke but Luke good naturedly said, " Dead ones!"

Cooter got the hint and wisely changed the subject. "Are you driving the wrecker any today?"

"I figure I'll be pretty tied up today. How about I take it this evening? I can even keep it tonight if you have plans." replied Luke.

That would give Cooter at least 16 hours without having to worrying about being interrupted so he could be alone with Kathy. "You got it buddy!"

Luke smiled finishing his second beer. "Well, I guess we'd better get back. Thanks for the beer." he paused trying to 'act' cool. "Dixie, it may be a tight fit but if you want to come out and help Daisy with some cleaning I'll bring you back when I pick up the wrecker." He stated. This statement was a little odd, though it did go unnoticed by everyone but Dixie who took the hint.

"Yeah, I can help Daisy. Cooter tell Dad I'll be back later." with that she was up and out the door before anyone could say anything else.

In the General Lee, Daisy said, "I really don't have anything I need help with. I don't know what's he's talking about." she said quietly to Dixie.

Dixie shrugged her shoulders. "Maybe I just looked like I needed a break from the garage. I did." she said.

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Jesse heard the 'kids' coming in. He noticed Dixie with them. This wasn't that unusual except for the look she kept giving Luke. Jesse figured she must feel that what had happened was her fault if he'd been correct in his earlier thinking. Jesse looked at the teens and said, "Me and Luke, here, need to talk. Go find something to keep you busy. I had better not see anyone at the windows either!" he cautioned.

The shower, shave and 2 beers had helped, though Luke still dreaded this 'talk'.
Jesse extended him a cup of coffee giving the 'kids' time to get gone. Luke took the cup. "Luke, I know that you came to me about this?" Jesse paused for confirmation.

Luke nodded and sipped his coffee.

Jesse continued, "I don't like fighting, and from what I'm hearing you started this. I also can about figure out why. Luther Davenport told me he had let Dixie go out with that Tommy Rogers. I figure you know what ever happened on that date."

Luke looked away from Jesse's eyes into his cup.

"I'm not going to ask. I gather from what you told me Dixie has asked you to not say anything. If I'm anywhere near right, I can understand why you felt the need to adjust Tommy's attitude. It seems you were also prepared to take what ever 'medicine' Rosco dished out." Jesse paused again. "Luke this is Hazzard County and nothing ever goes as planned, son. From the State police showing up to you hitting one of them, now you have bitten off more than you bargained for and I don't know if there is anything I can do to help you out of this pickle."

Luke saw the love and helplessness in his Uncle's eyes, "I know that. I also know that last night may not be the only night I spend in jail over this. I had no idea who was behind me when I swung though. I did not mean to hit Trooper Mitchell. I may not like it; but, yes, I am prepared to take the 'punishment' for my actions.

"Ok, now that is settled, let's get some work done around here. Oh, and Luke I'll do what I can."

"Thanks." he said standing up to leave the kitchen.

Jesse asked looking Luke in the eyes, "Luke, how much did you drink this morning?"

He should have known Jesse never missed a thing. He truthfully answered. "Two beers at the garage while I was showering." Luke finished Jesse's thought, "No, I wasn't drunk last night. Ask any of the waitresses. I had two beers before Tommy showed up. I ordered one glass of the 'stuff ' JD calls 'shine' after I had made up my mind that it was the time to 'talk' to Tommy so if it did go bad at least I might get some sleep."

Jesse nodded, "Ok, just keep a handle on it."

Luke smiled, "I will." He was glad their talk was over. Though it had not been as bad as he had expected. Where Jesse got all his information, always amazed Luke.

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Luke went outside to find Daisy and Dixie weeding the flower garden. To Daisy he asked, "Can you spare your helper for awhile?"

"Sure, Luke." said Daisy a bit puzzled.

"Come on kiddo." he tried to sound casual as they walked away. Once out of ear shot he said, "It was not your fault."

She looked at him with tears in her eyes but refused to cry, "Yes, it was." she managed to say.

"I told you I'd get him. I did." said Luke.

Dixie looked him in the eyes, "But you went to jail!"

Luke replied, "I was prepared to, before I made up my mind to take care of that jerk!"

"But, now you are in trouble with Jesse, Rosco and the State Police!" she exclaimed.

Luke shook his head negatively. "No, I'm not. Jesse understood more than I figured he would. ... No, I didn't tell him anything. ... Like I tried to tell your father, Jesse wouldn't let Tommy take Daisy out. Once your Dad told him you went out with him against my protests, he figured Tommy got out of line and I decided to put him in his place, which is about the long and short of it."

She looked at Luke with an innocence that he'd never seen before. "You spent the night in jail because of me."

Luke smiled, "No, I spent the night in jail because of the jerk that wanted to 'hurt' you. Dixie, you have to know something else," he paused. "During the fight someone grabbed me from behind, ... I didn't know it was a State Trooper. ... I hit Trooper Mitchell."

She looked sick.

He gave her a sight smile, "You need to know, that last night might not be the only night I might spend in jail over this. You did nothing wrong and none of it is your fault! Do you hear me?" he lifted her chin so that she looked him in the eye.
She nodded 'yes', and said, "U-huh."

"Good, just don't forget that. No matter what, for you and all the other girls he's tried this with he deserved it! I did what I had to, I'm prepared to 'pay' for my actions, but it was worth it!"

"Luke I don't want you to go to jail especially because of ME." she said.

"It's not my favorite way to spend my time, but if I have to, I will." explained Luke.

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That evening Luke got a wrecker call out near the county line. When he arrived on the scene of the wreck he seen who had called the wreck in, Trooper Mitchell. Luke got out to see how he needed to set up to get the car out of the ditch. He walked over to Trooper Mitchell and asked, "Once I get this out of the road, can I talk to you a minute?"

"Sure, but let's get traffic clear first." the Trooper insisted.

In under five minutes Luke had hooked to the car, pulled it out of the ditch and loaded it on the wrecker. He then pulled to a wide spot just up the road. Walking back to the Trooper, Luke knew what he was going to say, "Trooper Mitchell, I'm not asking for anything, but I'd like to explain the other night. First off, I had no idea that was you behind me and I'd like to apologize to you for hitting you."

"What were you two fighting over anyway?" asked the Trooper.

Luke replied, "He did something to a friend of mine. I figured I was more his size."

The Trooper gave him a questioning look, "That's a little vague?"

Luke replied, "Yes, Sir, it is. I just wanted to apologize to you." Luke turned to walk away when the Trooper called to him.

"Luke, I respect the fact you didn't ask me to drop the charges." said Trooper Mitchell.

Luke just threw up his hand as he got in the wrecker to take the car back to Cooter's.

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It was the evening before Luke had to be in Court. Luke had finished up his chores at the farm when he got a wrecker call. He pulled the wrecker into the parking lot of the garage. He reached beside him on the seat and picked up the clean clothes he had taken with him. The plan was he'd shower at the garage and Bo would meet him there then they were going out to the Boars' Nest to hear Jeb's band. Jesse hadn't been happy with this. He hoped Luke wouldn't drink to much before Court in the morning, but he was a man and had to make his own mistakes. Luke arrived just before Bo who was in a hurry. Cooter called from under the hood of a car, "Luke? Are you headed for the shower?"

"Yeah," replied Luke.

"Hold up. Dixie's in there. Said she'd only be a few minutes." He said.

Bo pouted, "Great! Now I'm going to be late."

"Me too," said Cooter who was waiting to take Dixie to hear the band and was suppose to pick up Kathy on the way. Then, Cooter suggested, "Since you have to wait for the shower, why don't you bring Dixie, and I'll go with Bo. We'll meet you there and I'll get the wrecker then."

"Why not. But you owe me big time if I get a call!" replied Luke to Cooter's back which was headed to the General Lee.

Dixie came out brushing her hair. "Where are Bo and Cooter?"

"They went on. Give me a second to shower and we'll go." he said as he headed to the shower.

When Luke returned, from the shower, Dixie was ready but asked, "Can we talk a minute before we go?"

"Sure." replied Luke knowing where this was going.

Dixie looked into Luke's eyes, "What are you going to do tomorrow?"

Luke had been right, "Well, I'm going to go to Court and do the only thing I can do, plead guilty."

"Have you lost all your senses?" she asked.

Luke smiled back at her, "There was maybe fifty people there that night. They all saw ME start it. What else can I do? Besides, if I fight this, it would probably be worse. Rosco and JD have wanted this for far too long not to take advantage of it now."

Dixie suddenly realized something. "You are expecting to go to jail aren't you?"

Luke just looked at her for a second before answering, "Why do you say that?"

"Because when you thought you'd be fined you worked you tail off to make extra money for the fine." she paused. "You haven't done that this time."

Luke had to admit she had seen right through him, that had been his thoughts almost to the tee. He just shrugged his shoulders and said, "Come on, let's go have some fun tonight. Jeb has threated to try to talk me into singing."

The effort to change the subject worked. "You?"

"Yeah." he said getting into the wrecker.

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Bo and the others pretty well figured Luke had planned on getting pretty drunk tonight because though he tried not to let on he was pretty worried about the next day. Jeb was planning on driving tonight so Bo could drink some too. Luke arrived with Dixie. They took seats at a front table near the band. Luke ordered a beer and a Coke. It was still early and the band was finishing setting up. Dixie, Daisy and Kathy were talking at the table. Everyone was enjoying themselves. Jeb was getting requests for a song that Jeb's voice just wasn't deep enough to do it justice. Jeb took a break and asked Luke if he'd do the song. Luke had only drank one beer so he figured he pull it off pretty good so he sang 'White Lightning' by George Jones. Dixie had never heard him sing before. While Jeb had Luke cornered he figured on getting at least one more song out of him. He went right into 'Ballad of Thunder Road' by Marty Robbins Luke didn't have much choice but to sing it also.

Bo got a bright idea. He went to talk to Jeb and the others, "You know if we can keep him singing he may not get as drunk as we are think he might be planning on."

Jeb replied. "I agree. Got any ideas. "

"Yeah, Dixie do you know the 'Night the lights went out in Georgia'?"

"Yeah, but what does that have to do with anything?" see if Luke will sing it with you.

Between Dixie and the others they kept Luke to busy to drink to much. Surprisingly they all had a great time.

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Jesse Duke was always the first up. He made his way to the kitchen to make coffee. He picked up the coffee pot and it was warm.

Luke spoke from the living room. "Coffee's fresh."

Jesse turned to see Luke setting in a chair in the living room and said, "Oh, OK. Aren't you up kinda early or is it late?" Jesse took his coffee to the living room also.

"I guess it's a little of both. I couldn't sleep last night and got tired of trying so I got up." stated Luke.

Jesse studied him, "Are you that worried about today?"

Luke shrugged his shoulders, "I don't know if I'd say worried or just dreading it."

"Pretty sure you know the outcome." questions Jesse.

Luke took a drink of coffee before answering. "Like you have told me. They have waited too long to get the chance to put one of us in jail. Why would they pass up the opportunity now?"

"Well, you do have a point there. Course Judge Hardcastle does his own thing. He is not in Boss's or anyone else's pocket." Jesse informed.

Luke replied, "Well, that is good to know. I talked to Trooper Mitchell the other day. I only told him I had no idea it was him behind me that I did not intend to hit him and I was sorry."

"That's good at least he will know it wasn't personal. It may save you some trouble in the future." said Jesse.

Jesse's statement did little to make Luke fell better.

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A mist many protest Jesse and Luke were the only ones who would be at Luke's hearing. They took the pickup into town. Luke informed Jesse, "I've got a couple hundred in my wallet if there's a fine. I'll put it in the glove box."

Jesse replied, "I figure the $600 bond will cover the fine, but thanks."

The Court was called to order by Sheriff Rosco P. Coltrane. Judge Hardcastle read the charges: "1. Battery and 2. Battery on a Police Officer. Do you understand these charges?"

Luke replied, "Yes, Sir."

Judge Hardcastle asked if there was anything the Trooper wanted to add.

Trooper Mitchell replied, "I'd like to amend my complaint to just the Battery and drop the Battery on a Police Officer."

Judge Hardcastle replied. "Your reason being?"

Trooper Mitchell replied, "I have thought about it. This young man didn't willfully hit me. He reacted to me grabbing him during the 'hit' of the fight. As a result, I charged him during the 'heat' of my fight. If I thought he hit me intentionally I'd not drop it."

Judge Hardcastle studied the Trooper. "You are sure you want to proceed with only the Battery charge?"

Trooper Mitchell replied, "Yes, Sir, I am."

Luke was felling just a bit relieved.

Judge Hardcastle replied, "So be it. Mr. Duke how do you plead to the charge of battery?"

Standing straight and tall Luke replied, "Guilty as charged Your Honor."

The Judge asked, "You are entering this plea of your own will? And, you do understand that you COULD be sentenced to up to 12 months in the County jail?"

Many a profane thought went through Luke's head in the split second it took him to hoarsely answer, "Yes, Sir."

"I'll accept the plead of Guilty. I can set up a sentencing date or you can wave it and we can proceed with sentencing?" stated the Judge.

Though he had little choice in the matter, walking into the Courtroom for this hearing had been hard. Luke figured it would be even harder to walk back in again knowing he could spend 12 months (Luke had not figured on it being THAT long) in jail so he replied, "I'll wave."

"You are prepared to be sentenced today?" asked the Judge.

Rosco's mouth was watering at the thoughts of having Duke in jail for 12 months.

"Yes, Sir." Luke replied.

Judge Hardcastle asked, "Is there any explanation for your actions or anything you'd like to say in your defense, Mr. Duke."

Though Luke knew that if he explained his reason for the fight it might help him. At least it would explain why he started the fight, without Tommy so much as saying a word to him, but Luke was bound by Duke loyalty to not tell anyone about what had happened with Tommy and Dixie. Luke replied, "No, Sir."

"Well," the Judge paused. He had expected some sort of explanation for Luke's action of starting the fight when Tommy Rogers hadn't even said anything to him. Judge Hardcastle checked Luke's file, "I see you have only been before me on a charge of racing. Due to the Troopers amended complaint, and the fact that you are waving the sentencing hearing which means I don't have to make a third trip over here for this, it saves the County some money and me some time. I am feeling generous." Judge Hardcastle very rarely felt generous. He continued, "Lucas Duke I sentence you to..." he paused, "Fourteen days in the County jail, no credit for time served."

Luke was not happy, though compared to the though of 12 months, well, he'd take the 14 days, no problem. So though he was cursing to himself on the inside, he realized he had gotten a huge break and replied, "Thank you, Your Honor."

The Judge filled out the commitment which took no more than a minute and told Rosco, "Mr. Duke is in your departments custody until 14 days from today. Make the arrangements."

Rosco, replied, "Kew, Kew, Kew. Yes, SIR! I'll get right on that. Yes I will."

Luke knew at that moment the only thing worse than facing spending 14 days in jail was listening to Rosco gloat about it.

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Jesse Duke had been pretty certain as had Luke, that he would be sentenced to at least some jail time. He also knew that, though the law read that Luke could have been sentenced to 12 months in jail that it certainly wasn't likely for a small fight at the Boars' Nest. Unknown to Luke, Judge Hardcastle had been one of Jesse's long time fishing buddies. Though Judge Hardcastle had a reputation of being a 'tough cookie', he also knew that there wasn't many a man in Hazzard over 18 that hadn't gotten into at least one fight (though they may not have ended up in Court) at the Boars' Nest.

Jesse wasn't anymore happy for Luke than Luke himself was, but the Judge had been fair. Jesse walked out of the Courthouse, before reaching his truck he was met by his nephews, Cooter, Daisy and Dixie. Many questions were aimed at him. Jesse also knew this was entertainment for Boss and Rosco, so he suggested, "We will talk at the garage." as he kept walking.

Once at the garage, Jesse explained, "Well, it's not near as bad as it could have been. First off, Trooper Mitchell dropped the charge of Battery on an Officer, so that helped. Luke waved the time frame between this hearing and the sentencing hearing so that it was all done today. Jesse looked at the faces before him. He was sentenced to 14 days which starts today."

There was a shocked silence for a minute then, questions from the group were heard as one, "What can we do?" "You are going to do something?" "That's not fair." No one noticed Dixie slip from the crowd as she went out the back door of the garage.

Jesse replied, "Luke knew what he was up against going in. The choices he made were his. There is nothing I can do and he got several breaks as he could have gotten 12 months or LONGER if the Trooper hadn't dropped his charge!"

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The next two weeks in Hazzard were a bit strange. Everyone had been use to seeing Bo and Luke together. It was strange for Bo to be 'on his own' though he had other cousins and friends. There was slightly more work to do at the farm so the cousins chipped in to do Luke's share and which took a little longer because it was odd not having Luke around. The same was going on at the garage. Cooter and his father were dividing three peoples shifts between themselves. They even noticed that Dixie wasn't herself though they couldn't imagine why unless it was because she was due to go back to her Mom's in a short while.
For Luke it was a very boring two weeks. He managed to read and sleep more than he had probably in all the time he was in High School. Visits were limited though someone was there every time which in some ways made Luke feel worse when they left.

The way Judge Hardcastle had written the commitment Luke would be released on the 14th day at the time he was committed. Luke knew he would be expected home for dinner as Jesse had promised to fix his famous crawdad bisk. All Luke really wanted was a good long hot shower even though it was a very hot August, his own bed as the thin mattress on the steel bunk wasn't doing a thing for him, and maybe a beer, though not necessarily in that order. Luke pretty much figured his friends and family would have his next couple of days planned though. 'He--, there plans may be more fun!' he though as he waited impatiently for the clock to hit 11:15 am.

Old Bo could hardly wait himself and he was parked outside the Courthouse at 10:30am which Luke had been able to hear the General Lee's powerful engine pull up. This didn't help his patience either! Bo had gotten out of the hot car and sat on its hood leaning up against his windshield to wait in the sun while watching the girls in their summer clothes. Bo loved the heat of summer.

Unknown to Luke the others were at the Garage. Luther had went to pick up parts so it was only the younger group as Jesse was home preparing his dinner.
Cooter and Dixie were also going to the Duke's for dinner. Dixie had worked the evening before frying chicken and making potato salad which had gone unnoticed by either Cooter or her father as they weren't home. During the two weeks Luke was in jail the T-Shirts and garage hats had returned though today she had on a lavender top with spaghetti straps with a pair of white cut off jean shorts and sandals. She had also fixed her hair though the August heat was threatening to melt everyone. Dixie knew that she felt guilty about Luke going to jail, though there was something very different going on other guilt. She made up her mind, if Daisy was willing to let her stay over, she really needed to talk Daisy and try to sort out what was going on here.

It was 11:00am when Peggy got out an envelope containing Luke's belt, knife, knife case, and some change that Luke had had in his pockets. She unlocked the cell door though the gate to upstairs was still locked. She had Luke sign the property sheet saying he was returned all his property. Then she turned the time clock to 'released' and said, "Well, you've just got a few more minutes. Think you'll be back?"

Luke looked at her and grinned, "You know I'd really like to tell you no, but being a Duke, in Hazzard County, I just don't think I can say that. They have gotten me twice, I figure they will be trying harder than ever, now, to make anything stick."

"Off the record, I'd say your pretty much right. Keep out of trouble!" she said as the clock clicked 11:15am. She punched his booking card and his copy of the release paper, then said, "That's it." As she unlocked the gate. Peggy herself was pretty glad he was being released too. She had had little sleep the past two weeks but had racked up on overtime. She only had a couple of log entries to make before going home.

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Luke walked outside with his copy of the release in his pocket. Instead of going to the drivers side of the General he went to the passenger side. "Are you going to sleep there all day or are we going home?" he asked Bo who had indeed drifted off for a second.

Bo about fell off the car trying to get up. "No, I ain't going to sleep all day and NO we're not going home yet."

Luke smiled. 'I'd really like a shower before he starts with his plans.' thought Luke. "Well, where are we going?"

"You'll see!" said Bo. As he jumped into the General, started him up and pulled out with a slight squeal of the tires. He circled Hazzard Square, pulling into the Hazzard Garage. "Jesse said we could hang out until about 4, so I brought you a change of clothes. Luther went to get parts and won't be home until late. Cooter said you could use the shower here so we can all hang out awhile before going home." Bo said almost begging.

Luke smiled at his younger cousin. "Thanks, Bo!" He climbed out of the General. Bo tossed him the bag he'd put his clothes in. The young group greeted Luke as if he were a returning war hero! Good old Cooter supplied the beer. Luke headed them off as best he could as he headed for the back of the garage for the shower. Once in the bathroom with a couple of beers Luke began to feel more human. After his shower and shave he stuffed his other clothes in the bag and combed his hair. Luke did indeed feel better and headed out to see his friends and family. After everyone greeted Luke again things got kind of back to 'normal' and everyone sort of laid back. The garage was still open and someone had to collect for gas but other than that, the garage wasn't busy. As Luke looked at his friends and family, he felt very lucky. He also noticed that Dixie was still acting like she felt guilty about him going to jail. Luke thought 'I'll have to make time to talk to her today.' then he took in her appearance. Then, he did a double take, without thinking about it. 'She has sure grown up this summer! Da--!' thought Luke!' he could not help himself seeing her white shorts and tan long legs.

After a supper fit for a king, with all that Jesse had cooked, not to mention the added 'goodies' that Dixie brought, the girls began to clean up the kitchen.

"Daisy do you think Uncle Jesse would mind me staying tonight?"

"Sugar, my Uncle Jesse has never minded company." replied Daisy. "Hey, I've got a good idea. Let's call the new girl, Beth, and ask her over. We never got to really get to know her before school let out. As a matter of fact we could call and see if Jill, Robin, and Kathy can come over too. Though I don't expect Robin to come because of Luke, but I haven't invited her lately. Make it a PJ party."

Dixie smiled, weakly, 'This was not what she had in mind, but it might be fun.' she thought, and then asked, "What do you mean, Robin won't come because of Luke?"

Daisy smiled weakly, "We use to be good friends or at least I though we were, until her and Luke broke up. I don't know. Maybe he boyfriend won't let her stay, maybe she feels awkward or maybe she just used me. Her and Luke were a 'thing' for over three years then it fell apart. I thought he'd marry her for sure, but he never mentioned what happened. Then, he just began running kinda wild, not dating anyone seriously since her." Daisy paused, "I better go ask before we get on the phone." Daisy found Uncle Jesse and the guys on the porch. "Uncle Jesse, would you mind, since I know these guys have plans, if I called a few friends to see if they'd like to come over for a PJ party?"

The guys rolled there eyes. This meant they were sleeping in the barn for sure. It also meant that they could drink there and not be on the roads. 'There went sleeping in his own bed.' thought Luke.

Jesse smiled at his only niece, "Sure you all can have a PJ party in there and the guys here can have the barn."

Daisy did have the good graces to say, "Thank you Uncle Jesse. Thanks guys!" she said before rushing into the house to call the girls.

"Boys, what are your plans for tonight?" questioned Jesse. Who was looking at Luke.

Luke replied, "I'm just glad to be home. I think they might have something planned, which is OK by me, as long as I can stay out of trouble."

It was Cooter who spoke volumes with his next thought, "Only way I see that happening for sure is to stay here."

The guys all agreed much to Jesse's relief. He was thinking what Luke had been, that the law would be looking hard to try to put him back in jail at least for a day or two figuring he'd be trying to make up for the two weeks he was in jail. Luke called his friend Mark McCormick and he'd be over soon. The five Duke boys and Cooter headed to the barn to get things set up.

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In the house Daisy and Dixie were expecting Jill, Kathy, and Beth. Robin said she might drop by but couldn't stay long. Daisy really didn't expect her.

Dixie thought now was as good a time as any to talk to Daisy before the others got there. "Daisy," Dixie almost pleaded, "You know that I feel guilty over Luke being in jail?"

"Honey, what on Earth did Luke getting into a fight have to do with you?" asked Daisy.

Tears threaten to fall when Dixie continued, "I went out with Tommy. Tommy had tried to ... force ... me." she took a second before saying, "Nothing happened. I managed to fight my way out of the car and started walking. Luke had the wrecker and was coming back from a call. He picked me up, took me home. I told him what had happened. He promised not to tell Dad, Cooter, or anyone else."

Daisy was making the connections now, "So when Luke caught up with Tommy he 'took care' of it himself. ... Honey, that is Luke."

"But it was my fault he went to jail." stated Dixie.

"Luke or any or those guys out there," Daisy pointed out the window at the yard full of guys. "Would have done the same thing for me or any other female. That's just the way they are. I'm sure that Luke thought things through before he acted. Now, Bo on the other hand, would have acted and then thought." Daisy said smiling at her friend.

Dixie had to laugh too. "Daisy I know I feel guilty but there's more. I get so nervous when Luke is around. My stomach feels funny..."

Daisy smiled widely, "You can't quiet smiling and you heart flutters a bit?"

Surprised Dixie looked at Daisy with a 'How did you know look?'

"My cousins have that kind of effect on girls! It's normal. You just have a 'crush' on Luke." Daisy said. About that time two cars pulled up to the drive way. "They're here, come on." said Daisy as she headed out to greet their friends.

In the first car was Kathy and Jill. Kathy parked her Camero out of the way. She had been to the Dukes many times. In the second car was Beth and her Mother. Daisy went to Beth's Mother's car to introduce herself and invite them in. "Hi, I'm Daisy Duke. I've seen you at school but I'm not sure we've met." She said to Beth's Mother. "Won't you come in for a spell? I know you'll want to meet my Uncle Jesse." Daisy saw the look that appeared on Beth's Mother's face when Cooter and the others came over to Kathy's car.

Beth's Mother replied very sternly, "I hadn't planned to get out but 'Yes' I would like to met your parents before I decide if Beth can spend the night."

'Here we go! I thought it was already 'decided' when I packed my stuff to stay' thought Beth. This was her first invitation to a friends house in a new town and her Mother was going to mess it up.

Jesse had been busy when the cars pulled up but was now on his way outside.

Daisy saw him and called. "Uncle Jesse I want you to meet Beth and her Mother."

Beth's Mother saw a friendly looking older man wearing bibbed overhauls and a red ball cap. By her thinking he didn't look like he was expecting company. She was still waiting to see this Daisy's Mother. And all those boys. Who were they and just what kind of a party was suppose to go on here. She thought.

"Ma'am." Jesse extended his hand. "I'm Jesse Duke, Daisy's Uncle." Jesse saw her gaze go to the guys who were heading towards the barn. "Now, Ma'am, most of that bunch of boys there are my nephews, and they have a friend or two over, but they know their limits and so do the girls who will be over tonight. The girls are going to be in the house. The boys are sleeping in the barn. At least one of these girls dates a friend of my boys. I would not let them both have friends over like this if I couldn't be sure that they all know not to buck me." Jesse smiled at Beth, "I'm sure that Miss Beth here will mind me just like my own do. Isn't that right?"

Beth could have hugged the older man right there. "Yes, Sir."

Beth's Mother still wasn't sure, and asked, "So, Daisy where are your parents? I know that your Uncle here isn't the only adult here with all you kids."

Daisy smiled proudly, "Yes, Ma'am, my Uncle Jesse has raised all six of us since we were small."

"Six?" she said in disbelief. "Sir, you are raising six teens alone? Good, Lord."

"Yes, ma'am, they are good kids." stated Jesse equally as proud of 'his' kids as they were of him.

"How many are going to be here tonight?" she questioned.

Jesse looked to Daisy who was mentally counting. "Twelve maybe thirteen."

"Oh, my." she said, "How many are boys?"

Jesse replied, "My five nephews, Cooter and Mark. Seven."

Beth's Mother saw that he said this with all the confidence in the world. She was certain when she saw all those boys that HER daughter would not be staying, but Jesse Duke did have a way of calming people down. She felt much better and decided to let Beth stay. "You have more patience than I'd ever have, Mr. Duke. Beth can stay." she said.

Jesse took out a small notepad from his pocket and a pen. On one of the pages he wrote 555-7689, tore it out and handed it to Beth's Mother. "In case you want to call later to check on Beth."

"Thank you. Call me if she doesn't mind. It was nice meeting you, Mr. Duke." she said.

"Beth will be just fine." said Jesse as she was leaving.

As her Mother drove away, she told Jesse, "Thank you, Mr. Duke. I thought for a minute I wasn't going to get to stay."

Jesse smiled, "You are very welcome, young lady. There's only a couple of things we need to work on. First, its Jesse. Second, the first time you are here, you are company. Next time, you're family, so make yourself at home. We've already talked about the boys out there so there's no need to bring that up again. I'm going out there to check on them. You ladies have a good time." said Jesse as he headed to the barn.

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In the house the girls were talking and baking cookies for a snack when they heard a car out front. Daisy looked outside, "That's Robin."

Dixie wanted to see this 'Robin'. She wasn't sure she knew her. If Daisy thought Luke might have married her she had to be something special.

'I have been up this drive way hundreds of times and now I'm nervous. Maybe Luke isn't even home.' thought Robin as she turned up the drive way to the Duke Farm. She had heard, as had everyone, that Luke had been in jail for fighting. She also knew he'd been released that day. As her headlights swept the front lawn she saw the General Lee, her brother, Mark's Firebird and all the other vehicles. She also knew Luke would be home somewhere. 'Well, if Daisy is having a party then the guys are sure to be in the barn.' Her suspisions were confirmed when she saw the barn light on. She thought, 'Da--, Luke I still know you too well!' She pulled her car up close to the house hoping that Luke wouldn't see it.

She walked up the front steps to the front door. Robin opened the door like she had done for several years now and called, "Daisy?"

"We're in the kitchen." called Daisy.

Robin knew from the second she walked in that she was welcome here and began to relax. She walked in saying, "Muuummm. Something smells great!" she reached for a warm cookie on the plate. As she chewed the cookie she reached in the cabinet for a glass which she filled with milk. "So what's the reason for the party?"

Daisy replied "Equal rights! The guys are doing their thing and I didn't want to be the only girl at home."

Robin raised her glass, "To equal rights!" Everyone laughed. That is everyone but Dixie who was too busy studying Robin.

She was dressed comfortably in jeans, sneakers, and a T-shirt. Dixie observed that it didn't appear she was here to impress Luke or anyone else. For some reason it made Dixie feel a little better about her being here. Dixie learned Robin was easy going, fun to be around, and she seemed so confident.

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Luke looked out the door. It only took a half a second to identify THAT car. He returned to the others.

"Who was that?" asked Mark McCormick.

"Someone I used to know." Luke replied coldly, "Daisy's friend and your sister." said Luke as he drained the half a glass of shine that he had been sipping on.

Jesse had known that they would want to 'celebrate' Luke's return home so he had brought them a gallon of his finest shine and cautioned that they didn't have to drink it all tonight.

Bo and Cooter looked at each other as Luke set the glass down.

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Robin had been worried about coming over but she was glad she had. It had been quiet awhile since she had hung out with the girls. She was truly having a good time. She had even stayed longer than planned.

About this time the phone rang. Daisy answered it., "Duke farm, ..." she paused listening to the other end. "Yes, as a matter of fact he is. It will take a minute to get him, he's in the barn. Just hold on." to the room full of girls Daisy said, "Can someone go get Luke? He has a call."

Kathy was more than willing to go get Luke hoping that she might be able to sneak a goodnight kiss from Cooter. She pulled up short on the porch when she saw Jesse on the swing. "I'm just going after Luke. He has a call."

Jesse said sternly, "I'm timing you."

At the barn she called "Guys?"

It was Bo that opened the door.

Kathy said, "Luke has a phone call. Night Cooter!" she said as she returned to the house.

Luke stood up. He was feeling just a bit tipsy. Though he did his best not to show it especially in front of Jesse. When Luke entered the living room, his and Robin's eyes locked for a whole minute. The temperature in the house dropped at least ten degrees. Luke said into the phone, "Hello?" he paused listening to the other end. "Hi, Carol." he paused, "Well, that's awfully tempting, ... but I have plans tonight." he continued to listen, "I bet you could! Maybe we can try 'that' some other time. Thanks for the offer. Goodnight." Luke said almost blushing from the offer he'd just gotten in front of the room of girls. Carol had none too suddlely offered Luke some entertainment that she knew he had not gotten in jail. "Daisy, if I get another call, please, take a message. I'm not going anywhere tonight." he said as he rather loudly closed the door behind him.

It was Kathy who voiced what everyone else was thinking, "WHOA!"

Now, Robin felt a bit out of place. "I'm sorry. I shouldn't have come."

Daisy replied, "Don't be silly. You are my friend and are welcome here always."

Robin replied, "Thanks. But I really do have to go. Ralph will be calling soon, all I need is him to know I was here. I just don't think he'd understand. I did have a good time. It was nice to meet you all. Goodnight everyone."

Robin stepped on the porch where Jesse was setting on the swing. He said, "Not staying?"

"Lord, no." she said, "Ralph would have fit if he knew I had came over." she stepped to the swing and hugged Jesse. "I still love you Uncle Jesse. Sometimes I wish things were different."

He said "I know. You are always welcome." he said to the one girl he thought might have just been his nephews match.

She replied, "Thanks." as tears filled her eyes. She turned for her car. 'I won't cry.' she thought. As she reached the end of the drive way, she saw in the rear view mirror the General Lee and thought to herself. 'I miss that car. I miss this farm. I miss this family. I will NOT CRY!' as the tears betrayed her by running down her cheek, she said loudly, "Oh, God, Luke Duke I miss you!" she cried all the way home.

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The next morning everyone was dividing the chores so that they could have some fun before it was time for the company to leave. Dixie grabbed a basket off the porch and said, "I'll get the eggs." She headed for the chicken coop.

Luke had been wanting to talk to Dixie and figured this was a good time. He made up the excuse by saying, "I'll go get the stalls clean." he was gone to the barn. Luke circled the whole barn in order to meet Dixie coming back out with the eggs. "Come here a minute." he said leading her to the side of the barn not visible from the house. He sat the basket down. "I've been wanting to talk to you. I know that you are feeling guilty about me. ... Please don't."

She looked up into his big blue eyes and melted.

Luke still held her upper arms in his hands where he had turned her to face him. He looked down into her brown eyes. All explanations, all pleads stopped. Everything stopped. Both Luke and Dixie moved closer to each other. Luke bent his head toward Dixie.

Dixie had no idea what was happening here as she felt herself stand on tip toes to met Luke as his lips touched hers. His experienced tongue parted her lips as the kiss intensified.

It was like something had them magnetized. They moved closer wrapping their arms around each other when...

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In the house, Bo asked, "Where's Luke?"

Jeb replied, "Cleaning the stalls."

Bo said, "What? I did that and he was there when I did." he went out the door to stop Luke from doing the job twice.

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It was as though they were hypnotized by each other when Luke heard the door slam. It was all he could do to pull them away from each other. "Go that way. Someone is coming." He ducked into the side of the barn.

Dixie managed to somehow remember the eggs. She walked to the house on cloud nine. THAT was NOT like any first kiss her friends had told her about!

Bo entered the barn to find Luke looking very guilty. He had a glass of shine in his hand. "Luke! What are you doing?"

"Shhh, I had kind of a hang over. Thought this might knock it. It must be from not drinking anything for two weeks." he said innocently.

Bo said, "Yeah, I know the feeling, but after Robin was here, I was too busy watching you to drink too much." It was usually Bo who had the hang overs after drinking too much. He went back to the house.

Luke smiled as he poured the untouched shine back in the gallon jug.

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