Roscoe stood by his patrol car, scratching the Basset hound's ears as he waited for Becka and Coy to arrive. “I hope I'm makin' the right decision, Flash,” he muttered. “I just found my daughter; I sure don't wanna drive her away before I get to know her.” The Basset hound barked, pricking up her ears. “You hear somethin', darlin'?”
Coltrane stepped away from his vehicle as Becka's blue Mustang roared around the corner. He coughed as a cloud of dust settled over his uniform. The young woman jumped out the car, grinning widely. “Where's Enos when we need him?” she joked, winking at Coy, who laughed. “Ain't this his public bathtub?”
Roscoe chuckled. “I heard about that, Rebecca,” he admonished, the sparkle in his eyes negating his stern expression. “Now don't you go makin' a habit of that.”
“If you insist, Daddy,” giggled Becka. “Why did you want to see us?”
“I'm not thrilled with the idea of you spendin' time with a Duke, but if it makes my little girl happy, I guess I can live with it. But,” he went on, shaking a finger at Coy, “ if you don't treat her right, you'll deal with me . Understood?”
“Yes, sir,” grinned Coy. “As long as she's with me, every one of her days will be filled with sunshine,” he promised.
“All righty then. About where you're livin', Rebecca. I think it would be a good thing if you wanted to live with me and Flash. You can go on workin' for Homer if you want to.”
The young woman held up her hands. “Daddy, if I am gonna live with you, please stop callin' me Rebecca. The only person who does that is Mama, and only when she's mad at me.”
Coy choked back a laugh and looked down at the ground. His amusement didn't go unnoticed. “That goes for you, too, Coy Duke,” smiled Becka.
“Yes, ma'am. I promise not to call you that, even if I'm upset with you.”
“Okay, now that we got that settled, I'll expect to see you back in town, young lady,” said Roscoe. “I go off-duty soon, so I'll see you later on. Bye-bye, now.” He got back in his patrol car and drove off.
The young couple burst out laughing as they watched him leave. “Bet he never expected a Duke to darken his doorstep,” gasped Coy breathlessly. “I doubt Boss will be as nice about it.”
“Don't worry about him. Aunt Lulu will keep him in line,” joked Becka. A sudden image of their possible future made her grin. “If we ever do end up married, I bet the family reunions will be real interestin'.”
It'll be ‘Hatfield and McCoy' time, sugar,” shot back Coy. “As long as we dodge the bullets, we'll be okay.”
“Flash can referee,” giggled the young woman. “Come on, smart guy. I'll give you a ride home.” She climbed into the Mustang, still giggling.
~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~
One Week Later
“Morning, Mr. Rhuebottom,” greeted Becka as she walked into the store. “Howdy,” she said to a tall, thin young man standing by the counter.
The man gaped. “H-howdy, yourself, miss,” he stuttered. “How much do I owe you, Homer?”
“$3.85,” answered Rhuebottom. He leaned forward, pitching his voice low. “Don't even think about it. She's already got a steady fella.”
“Shoot! Just my luck. Oh well, can't win ‘em all, I guess. Thanks, Homer. See ya'll later.” He scooped up his purchases and left.
“Becka, I need you to drive over to Capitol City and pick up some merchandise for me,” called Rhuebottom. “I already paid for it. Duncan will load it up for ya. Take my truck,” he added, handing over the keys.
Becka groaned dramatically. “ Duncan , huh? Just my luck that he'd be workin' today. He always looks like he's undressin' me with his eyes.”
The storekeeper laughed. “I'm sure you can handle him,” he commented. “Go on, get goin', and try to be back before noon , okay?”
“Yes, sir. Anything else?”
“Now that you mention it, don't go flirting with Duncan too much,” joked Homer. “It makes his hormones act up!”
The young woman rolled her eyes and left. As she got into Rhuebottom's truck, she waved to Cooter, who was pumping car for a customer. The mechanic waved back, a grin lighting up his face. He turned as the General Lee roared up. “Hey, y'all,” he greeted.
“Mornin', Cooter,” grinned Vance. “Did those brakes come in for Uncle Jesse's truck yet?”
“Not yet, but I expect them sometime this afternoon. Homer just sent Miss Becka into Capitol City for him. He told me this mornin' that they were in his last shipment.” He winked at Coy. “If'n you hurry, y'all might be able to catch her. She just flew by a couple minutes ago.”
“We can't right now, but give a holler on the CB when you get those parts. We gotta get back to the farm. Come on, cousin. See y'all later, Cooter.”
~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~
Duncan looked up when Becka entered the depot. “Howdy, Miss Duffy, or should I call you Coltrane?” he chuckled.
“Just don't call me late for supper,” the young woman joked back. “Mr. Rhuebottom sent me over for his order. Can y'all give me a hand loadin' it?”
“Sure thing. I just need your signature on the invoice. Hey, Rusty!” he called. “Come on out here and help this little lady load them cartons. It'll be a while, if y'all wanna go and get a drink or somethin'.”
“All right. I'll be back in an hour. I have some shoppin' to do anyways.”
Becka left the depot and walked down Capitol City 's main street. A pair of earrings in a shop window caught her eye. The jeweler smiled at her and motioned for Becka to come in. “Good mornin', Miss. I saw you lookin' at those earrings. Ain't they pretty?”
The young woman smiled. “Sure are. How much you askin' for them?”
“Well, I was thinkin' twelve dollars, but since I'm in a good mood, I'll let you have them for ten,” answered the man, taking the earrings out of the display case. “Shall I wrap them up for you?”
Becka reached into her pocket and counted her money. “Make it eleven and I'll wear them out.” She handed the bills across the counter and threaded the wires through her ears. “How do they look?”
“Like they was made for you! Thank you, Miss. I have a necklace that matches if'n you're interested.”
“No, thank you. Do you have any cufflinks by chance? I wanna buy a present for my Daddy. Maybe somethin' made from Confederate coins?”
The jeweler grinned. He bent down and reached under the counter, coming up with a small, blue velvet box. “How about these?”
Becka's face lit up. “Perfect!” she squealed. “He'll love them! Can you gift-wrap them, please?”
After sliding the box into her pocket, the young woman left the store and headed for the local diner. She ordered a cold soda and sat down to enjoy her drink. Two men running out of the bank across the street caught her attention. A second later, the bank manager ran out behind them. “Stop those men! They robbed the bank!” he shouted.
Becka slammed down her glass and ran out the door. She scrambled out of the way as the men drove down the street inches in front of her. A man on the sidewalk reached out and grabbed her arm. “Are you all right, miss?” he panted.
“Fine. Where's the Sheriff's Office?”
“Right down there,” answered the man, pointing down the street.
“Thank you, sir.” Becka pulled away and ran down the street. A tall, lanky man in a uniform slammed into her as he sped from the building. “'Scuse me, ma'am,” he apologized.
“Sheriff, wait! I got a good look at those two creeps who robbed the bank! And I'm positive I saw them in Hazzard the other day, too!”
“Then tell Coltrane about it, miss. I ain't got time to stand here and jabber with you!”
Becka stepped back, annoyed by the man's attitude. “Of all the nerve,” she grumbled to herself. “I'm gonna do just that when I get back home!”
Duncan and Rusty were standing out front when Becka returned to the depot. “We saw what happened, miss. Maybe you should stay here until those fellas are caught.”
The young woman shook her head. “No, I have to get back to Hazzard. Is everythin' loaded up? Fine, then I'll be on my way.” She climbed into the truck and drove away.
“That little gal is headed for trouble, Duncan ,” muttered Rusty. “I hope those two don't come lookin' for her.”
“You and me both,” replied Duncan .
~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~
Becka hummed to herself as she drove back to Hazzard. She never noticed the car hiding in the trees on the side of the road a few yards ahead.
“Hey! That's the girl we saw in town!” one of the robbers said, nudging his partner as the young woman drove past.
“Then we better make sure she don't tell anyone what she saw,” answered the other man, starting the car and following the truck. He watched closely as Becka turned down a side road, dust pluming behind her. “That's it, honey. Get out where there ain't nobody around.”
“Get her before she crosses the bridge, Lloyd!”
“Settle down, Bucky,” growled the driver. He sped up, pulling a gun from inside his jacket. He leaned out the window and fired.
Becka jumped when she heard the shot. A minute later, the left front tire of the truck burst, sending the vehicle careening off the road. It slammed into a tree, throwing her violently against the steering wheel. She head hit the windshield and she passed out, blood running down her forehead.
“That takes care of you, sweetheart,” sneered Lloyd. “We better find someplace to hide out before we hit Boss Hogg's bank tomorrow.”
“Turn off up there,” said Bucky, pointing. “There's an old barn at the end of the road. We can stay there.”
~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~
Three Hours Later
“What could be taking so long?” Homer Rhuebottom wondered, looking at his pocket watch. “I hope Becka didn't run into no trouble.” He glanced up when Jesse Duke entered the store.
“Hey, Homer. My parts come in yet?” said the farmer.
“No, Becka's not back, Jesse. I was just gonna call Duncan to see if she's left Capitol City yet.” He turned to the phone and dialed. After a brief conversation, he hung up, his face pale and scared.
“ Duncan said she left over three hours ago. And that's not all. Two fellas robbed the bank up there and Becka, she saw them.”
“Robbed the bank?!? Who? What bank?” questioned Boss Hogg as he came in. “What are you talkin' about, Homer?”
“Not your bank, J.D. The one in Capitol City . Miss Becka was in town when it happened.”
“Where is she? Ain't she back yet?”
Jesse sighed. “Use your head, J.D.!” he muttered. “Obviously, she ain't. Otherwise she'd be ‘round here someplace.”
On the back counter, Rhuebottom's CB crackled to life. A faint voice whispered, “Somebody help me. I need help.”
Jesse snatched up the microphone. “This here's Jesse Duke. Where are you and who are you?”
“I, I'm out near Hazzard Pond,” came the reply. “Please help me. I-I'm hurt. Please hurry.”
“Just hold on. We're comin'.” The former ridge runner ran out of the store. “Coy, Vance, we got trouble. Get out to Hazzard Pond.”
“We heard, Uncle Jesse,” shot back Coy. “Move it, cousin.”
As the General roared out of town, Mr. Rhuebottom picked up the phone. “I better call Roscoe and let him know what's goin' on,” he said quietly.
~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~
“Vance!” shouted Coy. “Look over there!” he added, pointing to the wreckage of a truck sitting a few yards off the road. He scrambled out of the car as it slid to a stop. He yanked open the driver's side door, his face turning white. “Radio for an ambulance!” he called over his shoulder. “She's hurt bad!”
Becka groaned softly when she heard the voice. She tried to sit up, gasping when sharp pain needled through her head and back.
“Don't try to move, sugar,” whispered Coy. “Help's on the way.” He glanced up when Vance pulled on his arm, dragging him towards the front of the truck.
“Help me get this hood up. I smell smoke.”
The young woman smelled the smoke as well. She frantically tried to get out of the wrecked vehicle, crying out in fear. “It's gonna blow!” she screamed. “Get me out of here!”
Off in the distance, the wail of a siren rose and fell. Minutes later, Roscoe pulled up in his patrol car, Enos right behind him. An ambulance bumped along the road after them, raising a plume of choking dust. The deputy was the first to voice his horror. “Possum on a gum bush!” he gasped. “Is that Miss Becka?”
“Of course it is, dipstick!” growled Coltrane. He turned to the Duke cousins. “Is she…alive?” he gulped.
“Yeah, she is, but she's hurt pretty bad,” replied Coy. “Who would do somethin' like this?!?” he blazed, losing his temper.
“Step back, please,” ordered the ambulance attendants as they reached the truck. They conferred softly for a moment, deciding the best way to remove Becka from the damaged cab. “You and you,” they said, pointing to Coy and Vance. “Hold her back straight while we move her out.”
Becka cried out when the men slid her out of the truck. She passed out, her body sagging against Vance's arms. The man shifted his weight to regain his balance. The four men carried the unconscious girl to the gurney, covering her gently with a blanket.
One of the attendants climbed into the driver's seat as his partner looked around. “Does she have any kinfolk in there parts?” he asked.
Roscoe jumped forward. “I'm her Daddy,” he whispered. “Take good care of my baby girl,” he begged. “I'll meet y'all at the hospital.” He turned and got back into his patrol car, tears streaming down his cheeks.
Several yards away, the two bank robbers watched from behind a clump of bushes. “Damn it, Lloyd!” grumbled Bucky. “She's still alive! What do we do now?”
“I suppose we'll just have to change that,” answered Lloyd, his eyes glinting evilly. “Go get the car. We'll follow these hicks to the hospital and take care of that nosey bitch.”
“Dr. Moss to Emergency.” blared the loudspeaker. “Dr. Thomas Moss to Emergency, stat!”
The ambulance attendants wheeled Becka into the emergency department. A nurse met them at the door and directed them to a treatment room. “What's happened here?” she asked, taking a paper from one of the men.
“Car accident,” replied the man. “Her vehicle slammed into a tree out near Hazzard Pond.”
Coy pushed his way forward. “Is she gonna be all right?” he asked, his eyes wide with alarm.
Dr. Moss sped around the corner, colliding with Roscoe as he passed. “Step out of the way, sir,” he ordered briskly. “Anyone know who she is?” he questioned, looking up at the crowd gathered around the room.
“She's my daughter, Rebecca Duffy,” answered the Sheriff, twisting his hat in his hands. “She goes by Becka, though.”
“How old is she, sir?” asked the nurse, her pen poised over the chart she was holding.
“She's twenty. Please, doctor, save my baby girl.”
Moss smiled. “We'll do the best we can. Sally,” he ordered, speaking to the nurse, “get a set of vitals and get x-ray down here.” He disappeared into the treatment room, pushing the door shut behind him.
Jesse stepped forward and rested a gentle hand on Roscoe's shoulder. “Come on, Roscoe. The doctor will let us know what's happenin',” he said softly, directing the distraught man to a chair in the waiting room. Coy and Vance followed, their faces set in grim lines.
The men sat quietly for several minutes. The door burst open and Boss Hogg, Lulu, and Enos rushed in. “What's goin' on here?!?” demanded J.D. “Enos said Becka was involved in some kinda accident?”
Coy looked up, his eyes shining with unshed tears. “That's right, Boss,” he whispered. “She was drivin' back from Capitol City and her truck went into a tree. She was hurt pretty bad.”
Lulu gasped and swayed dizzily. Enos reached out and caught her arm as she began to fall. “Don't take on so, Mrs. Hogg. I'm sure Becka will be just fine. She's a strong little gal.”
Roscoe stood up and motioned for the deputy to follow him out into the hall. “Did you find anythin' out there?” he asked softly, his hands shaking.
Enos looked down at his feet. When he looked up, his normally gentle eyes were hard. “From what I can tell, somebody shot out one of the tires on the truck, Sheriff,” he related sadly. “I think someone wanted her to crash.”
Coltrane's head shot up, his eyes blazing with rage. “This wasn't no accident, then?!?” he growled. “But who would want to hurt my baby?”
The waiting room door crashed open and Coy came out. His face was flushed and his mouth was set into a thin, white line. “Someone did this on purpose?!?” he spat. “Roscoe, I think you better call Becka's mama. She might be able to tell us somethin'.”
“I called her, Coy,” informed Enos. “She'll be here some time tonight. She was pretty upset.”
Before the young man could reply, Dr. Moss came out of the treatment room and approached them. The front of his scrub shirt was stained with blood. “Sir,” he said to Roscoe. “Your daughter is conscious and asking for you. Come with me, please.” He lead the Sheriff back into the treatment room.
Becka lay on the exam table, a bandage covering her forehead. “Daddy,” she rasped. “Bank robbers. In Capitol City . They did this.”
“Calm down, darling. Tell me what happened,” whispered Roscoe, squeezing her hand.
“I was in Capitol City , pickin' up a delivery for Mr. Rhuebottom and I saw two men rob the bank,” gasped the young woman. “I got a good look at them as they drove by me. They musta been waitin' for me and followed me into Hazzard.” She closed her eyes, breathing hard.
“I'll take care of it, darlin'. You just rest now.” He looked up at the nurse. “Are you gonna keep her here for a while?” he asked.
The nurse nodded. “She's got a concussion, so she'll be here at least overnight. Don't worry, Sheriff, we'll take good care of her.”
Roscoe smiled and left the room. “Enos, call the police in Capitol City and find out if any banks down their way was robbed earlier today,” he ordered. “I'm gonna go out and wait for Gretchen to arrive.” He left the hospital, muttering to himself.
~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~
Back in Hazzard, Lloyd and Bucky were going over their plan. “As soon as Miss Nosey is alone in her room, we'll go in and take care of here,” said Lloyd, his eyes hard and cold. “Otherwise, we're lookin' at a long stay in jail.”
Bucky stared at his partner. “Are you crazy? Her Daddy's the local sheriff. We can't just waltz in there and kill her. We won't get ten feet before we're caught, man!”
“Sure we can, if we're dressed like orderlies,” answered the other man. “I swear, you ain't got the brains God gave a turkey. We'll wait ‘til late and walk right in and search until we find her room. That little gal is gonna wish she'd stayed in bed this morning.” He grinned, his face turning sinister.
~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~
Five Hours Later
“Coy, would you stop fussin' over me?” grumbled Becka. “I'm perfectly fine, except for a headache I wouldn't wish on my worst enemy.”
Vance laughed from his place by the window. “You must be feelin' better if you're complainin',” he grinned. “Maybe if we covered your mouth, we'd be able to get a word in edgewise.”
The young woman shot him a sour look. “How would you like to end up in the next bed, Vance Duke?” she asked, raising a small fist. “That could be arranged, ya know.”
“Cut it out, you two,” admonished Daisy. “Becka, you want me to go over to Roscoe's and bring you back some clothes, honey?”
“No, thanks, Daisy. I'm not goin' anywhere soon.” She gestured, beckoning the girl to come closer. “But you could make these two shut up for me,” she whispered loudly. “A coupla gags might work wonders. Or maybe a roll of duct tape?”
The boys looked at each other in amusement. “That's just your scrambled brains talkin',” grinned Coy. “If you want us to leave, just say so,” he teased, bending down to plant a kiss on Becka's cheek. “We know when we're not wanted.”
Becka laughed, then grimaced as pain shot through her head. “Ouch! That hurt!” she moaned. “Seriously, I'm beat. Besides, y'all have a farm to run. Y'all should be sleepin', not hangin' around here.”
Uncle Jesse smiled. “Maybe so, but you're a little more important than mendin' a broken fence, young lady. But, we'll go if'n you want us to.”
“I suppose I could tolerate your company a while longer,” replied Becka with a grin. “Especially if a certain Duke boy gives me a few more kisses,” she flirted, winking at Coy.
The door crashed open and Gretchen ran in, her face pale. “My Heavens,” she gasped, hugging her daughter. “Are you all right, sweetheart?”
“Shoot, Mama. I've bumped my head harder than this fallin' out of that tree in our front yard,” chuckled the young woman. “Dr. Moss says I'll live. Calm down before you give yourself a fit, Mama.”
Mrs. Duffy's jaw dropped. “ Calm down ?!? How do you expect me to do that after what Deputy Strate told me? Rebecca, you could have been killed!”
Becka rolled her eyes dramatically. “Oh, for pity's sake! I said I was okay. Why can't you believe that, Mama?”
Jesse cleared his throat and motioned towards the door. “We best leave you ladies alone to chat. Come on, kids. Let's go get a snack.”
As soon as the door swished shut behind the Dukes, Gretchen exploded. “I told you comin' here was a mistake, Rebecca!” she cried. “You're comin' home as soon as you get out of here!”
The young woman sat up, her eyes flashing angrily. “I'm not goin' anywhere , Mother!” she shouted back stubbornly. “I'm stayin' in Hazzard whether you like it or not!” She took a deep breath and laid back against the pillow. “I just found my Daddy, not to mention a man that I love more than anythin'. Please, Mama, don't make me leave now,” she begged.
The older woman sighed and sat down beside the bed. “All right, sweetheart. I'm sorry I got upset,” she apologized contritely. Her face brightened. “So, you and Coy are getting' along well, huh? I could tell by the way he was lookin' at you that he's completely smitten with you.”
Becka's cheeks reddened. “The feelin' is mutual,” she giggled. “He's so sweet, Mama. I think I'm really, truly in love.”
“I felt the same way about your Daddy,” answered Gretchen. “I don't know what it is, but there's somethin' about a Southern gentleman that makes a woman's heart go pitter-patter.” Mother and daughter shared a giggle.
“Maybe it's the accent,” joked the young woman. “What made you want to be with Roscoe, Mama?”
“His shyness, I guess,” replied her mother, thinking back. “It took him ages to ask me for a date, but once he did, we spent almost every wakin' minute together. If things had worked out differently, we probably would have gotten hitched.”
“I know that I've only known him a short time, but I already love him to death,” smiled Becka. She laughed at a sudden memory. “Daddy told Uncle Jefferson to shut up when he was goin' on and on about me datin' a ‘low-down Duke boy',” she snickered. “The look on his face was priceless !”
Gretchen smiled. “ Jefferson always did have issues with the Duke family,” she said. “Did you know that he and Jesse were ridge-runnin' partners a long time ago?”
“Uh huh. Jesse told me some really funny stories about it. It's hard to believe they used to be friends.”
Sally, the nurse, poked her head I the door. “I'm sorry, ma'am, but visitin' hours are almost over. You'll have to leave now.”
Mrs. Duffy got up. “I'll be back in the mornin', Rebecca. Get some sleep.” She bent down and kissed her daughter's forehead. “Good night, sweetheart.”
“'Night, Mama,” answered Becka. She yawned and settled back into her bed. The hospital was quiet except for the squeak of the nurses' rubber-soled shoes on the hall tiles. As she was drifting off, Dr. Moss came into her room.
“Pardon me for disturbing you, Miss Duffy,” he said softly. “I just wanted to check on you before I left for the night.” He pulled a chair close to the bed and sat down. “How are you feeling?”
“Not too bad,” answered Becka. “I have a nasty headache and I'm pretty sore, but other than that, I'm all right. How long will I have to stay here?”
The doctor grinned. “What's your hurry?” he teased. “You planning on running off with that nice young man that you were smooching with earlier?”
The young woman giggled. “Shoot, you figured it out!” she joked. “No, I just hate hospitals and havin' to stay in bed.”
Moss nodded. “I'm the same way. I guess that sounds strange coming from a doctor. I'll examine you in the morning and, depending on how well you're doing, I might release you tomorrow. Now, get some rest. Good night.”
“Good night, Doc.” As the door closed behind him, Becka laughed to herself. “Mama and Daddy would have our hides if Coy and I ran off and eloped,” she giggled. “Maybe someday, but not in the near future.”
~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~
“It's a good thing Becka was coherent enough to use the CB,” said Daisy as the Dukes drove home. “It could have been hours before somebody came by and found her.”
Vance nodded seriously. “From what Enos told me, it weren't no accident neither.” He related what the Deputy had said. “I think we better keep an ye out for those fellas until they're caught.”
Coy's face reddened. “If either of those guys hurt Becka, they'll have to deal with me ,” he growled.
“Now, just settle down, Coy,” admonished Jesse. “The people at the hospital have been told to keep watch for those skunks. Dr. Moss told me he was gonna put a security guard outside of her door, just in case they get any ideas. And when she comes home, Roscoe will take care of her.”
“Uncle Jesse, what if those fellas do come after Becka?” asked Daisy. “She said she got a clear look at their faces. Couldn't she come and stay with us for a while?”
The farmer bit his lip. “I suppose it would be all right, but only if she and Roscoe agree. We'll ask her in the morning.”
~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~
The Next Morning
Dr. Moss closed the chart he was holding and grinned. “Everything checks out just fine, young lady,” he said. “If you promise to go home and rest, I'll release you. And I mean rest. No driving or strenuous activity.”
“You have my word,” replied Becka. “I hope you brought me some clean clothes, Daddy. These hospital gowns are a bit revealin', especially in the back.”
Jesse knocked on the door, then entered the room, Coy, Vance, and Daisy right behind him. “Well, good morning!” he said. “You seem to be feelin' better today.”
“I sure am! Dr. Moss is springin' me from this place. I can't wait to get home.”
“Uh, we wanted to talk to you about that,” said Coy. “We was talkin' about it last night, Roscoe, and, if you both agree, we'd like Becka to stay at the farm until those bank robbers are behind bars.”
Coltrane's eyes widened. “You think I can't take care of my own flesh and blood?” he demanded.
“No, Roscoe, of course not,” put in Vance. “But if these fellas tried to do away with her once, who says they won't try again?”
“He's got a point, Daddy. I didn't let on to Mama, but the whole thing shook me to the rafters. I could have been killed!”
The Sheriff thought for a moment, then nodded. “All right, you can go stay with the Dukes, if'n that's what you want.” He turned to Coy and shook a stern finger. “But if one hair on her head gets hurt….”
“Not even a chipped fingernail,” grinned the young man. “Them boys won't get within a hundred feet of her. You have my word as a Duke.”
Roscoe snorted. “All right, darlin'. You get yourself dressed and everythin' so you can get out of here. I'll go find your Mama and tell her what's goin' on.”
~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~
“I made up the spare room for you, Becka,” said Daisy as they entered the farmhouse.
“Thanks, Daisy. Coy, will you stop hoverin' over me already? I got a concussion, not two broken legs!” she teased playfully.
The young man stepped back. “Yes, ma'am,” he answered with a dimple-flashing grin. “Stubborn little thing, ain't she?” he commented to Vance.
“You wouldn't want her any other way, cousin,” chuckled Vance. “Come on; we got work to do. See you later, Becka.” He dragged Coy out of the room and out of the house.
“Take it easy. You're pullin' my arm of the socket.”
“Sorry. I think we should keep our eyes peeled. I didn't want to say anythin' in front of her, but a car followed us all the way from the hospital.”
Coy's eyes widened and he looked around, searching the hills around the farm. “So, what's your plan? I know you got somethin' up your sleeve.”
“Dang right I do. Let's head into town and talk to Cooter. He can help us look for those guys.”
“Now, where are those two goin' in such a hurry?” wondered Jesse as the General sped out of the yard. He sighed and turned to smile at the two women. “I best get to work choppin' some firewood. Becka, you make yourself right at home. Anythin' you need, don't be afraid to ask.”
The young woman smiled back at him. “Yes, sir. You want some help?”
“No, no. You just sit down and rest like the doctor told you. See y'all at supper.” He went out the door, whistling happily.
“At least I can cook,” grinned Becka. “How ‘bout I make up a batch of my Mama's special oatmeal cookies?”
Daisy laughed. “You do that, and Coy'll be proposin' to you in no time at all!” she replied. “I think you should just take it easy like Uncle Jesse said. We can bake cookies tomorrow.”
“All right,” answered the young woman. “I am kinda tired. I think I'll go lie down for a while.”
In town, Cooter was busy pumping gas when Coy and Vance drove up. “Hey, y'all,” he grinned, walking over. “Did Becka get settled at your place all right?”
“Yeah, she did,” said Coy. “Cooter, y'all noticed anyone suspicious hangin' around lately?”
“Y'all mean besides Boss Hogg?” joked the ace mechanic. “I ain't seen nobody.”
“Keep your eyes peeled, huh, man?” said Vance, climbing back in the car. “I got a feelin' those bank robbers might come after her.” He looked up as Sheriff Little, from Choctaw County , roared up on his motorcycle.
“Howdy, boys,” he said, taking off his helmet. “I heard about the robbery up in Capitol City . I got a couple of wanted posters I want y'all to look at.” He pulled the flyers out of his jacket and handed them over. “Word is that there was a witness.”
Coy nodded. “My girlfriend, Becka Duffy. She's stayin' out to the farm with us for a while. I'll show these to her when we get home.”
Little frowned. “I heard about her accident, too. She okay?”
“Well, yes and no,” replied Vance. “The doc said she'll recover, but it weren't no accident. Those guys ran her off the road on purpose.”
The cycle-riding sheriff gasped. “Are you sure about that? If that's true, they ain't gonna give up until she's silenced, permanent-like.”
Coy's face darkened. “That ain't gonna happen, not while I'm around,” he growled. “Those creeps come after her a gain, they're gonna deal with me!”
“And me,” chimed in Cooter. “I like that little gal. She's a real sweetheart, even if she is Roscoe's daughter.”
Sheriff Little burst out laughing. “Did I just hear you right?” he snorted.
“Uh huh,” replied Vance with a grin. “Come on, partner. Let's get back and show these to Becka. You comin', Sheriff?”
“I'm right behind y'all.”
Back at the farm, Becka was lying on her bed, trying to fall asleep. Thoughts of dealing with the two bank robbers made that impossible. Finally, she sighed, got up, and went to sit on the porch. She grinned when the General pulled up, followed by a flashy motorcycle. “Hi, sugar,” greeted Coy, kissing her on the cheek. “Did you get any rest?”
“A little, but I'm too wound up to really sleep. Who's this?” she asked, nodding to the uniformed man.
“This here's Sheriff Little, from over in Choctaw County . He brought over some wanted posters for you to look at.”
Becka flipped through the stack, her eyes widened when she recognized two of the men pictured on the flyers. “That's them!” she gasped, holding them up. “I'm positive it's these two fellas!”
“Lloyd Davis and Bucky Smith,” read Little. “Both of these boys got a rap-sheet a mile long. Says here they're wanted in four states for armed robbery, among other things. Rough-looking customers, ain't they?”
The young woman froze as the hair on the back of her neck stood up. She gazed up at the hill over-looking the farm, seeing a glint of metal back in the trees. “Boys, don't turn around, but I think we're being watched,” she said softly. “Up on the hill, next to that big cottonwood. I saw somethin' flash.”
Little casually pulled off his gloves and pivoted as if to lay them on his cycle. His eyes scanned the hilltop, focusing on the spot Becka had referred to. “Somebody's up there, all right,” he muttered. “I don't think they know we've seen ‘em yet.”
Behind the tree, Lloyd cursed under his breath. “Dang it, they saw us. Light out, Bucky.” He wriggled out of the brush and ran towards the car parked several yards away. He tripped over a root and crashed to the ground, costing the fugitives valuable seconds.
The General Lee roared out of the yard as Coy and Vance went after the criminals. Sheriff Little vaulted onto his motorcycle and followed, lights flashing and sirens wailing. A plume of dust rose behind the speeding vehicles, obscuring Daisy and Becka's view of the chase.
“Damn it, Bucky!” shouted Lloyd. “Floor it!”
“I'm doin' the best I can, buddy. The radiator's about shot,” panted Bucky in answer. A few yards ahead, he spotted an over-grown path. He turned the car into the lane, twigs crunching under the tires.
“Dang it! Where'd they go?” blazed Vance. He slammed on the brakes and the General slid to a stop. He pounded a fist on the steering wheel in frustration.
Little pulled up behind them and ran over to the car. “The buzzards must've turned up one of the dirt roads someplace. I think you boys better get back to the farm and keep an eye on Muss Duffy.”
Coy nodded and laid his hand on his cousin's arm. “They'll turn up, cuz, and when they do, we'll be waitin' for ‘em.”
Becka was pacing the kitchen, waiting for Coy and Vance to return. When she heard the General pull up outside, she flew out the door to meet them. “Did y'all catch them?” she gasped.
“No, we lost ‘em,” replied Coy, kicking a the dust under his boots. “Don't worry, darlin'. You'll be safe here.” Becka leaned against his chest, her lip quivering as she tried to hold back her fear.
~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~
“We ain't gonna get near that gal as long as she's holed up with those Dukes,” grumbled Bucky. “How's your leg?” he asked, staring down at the gash in his partner's leg.
“I'll live,” muttered Lloyd. “It ain't deep; just hurts like Hell.” He stood up and rolled down his pant leg. I swear I'm gonna get that bitch if it's the last danged thing I did!”
The other man dropped down onto a bale of hay and sighed. “And how do you plan to do that, genius? They're on to us now. Why don't we just cut our losses and skin out of here?”
Lloyd shook his head. “Not while there's still a witness out there, you dunce.” An unpleasant grin slithered across his face. “We'll just have to wait until those Dukes let their guard down. Sooner or later, she'll have to leave the house, and when she does, we'll nab her.”
A chill ran down Bucky's spine and he shivered. “I don't want no part of no murder, man. No amount of money is worth that.” He stood up and inched towards the door. “Leave me out of it, Lloyd.”
“You walk out that door and I'll put a bullet in you . Now get over here and sit down.” Lloyd raised his gun an pointed it at his partner. “Do it, man! Don't make me shoot you!” he threatened.
Two Days Later
Roscoe pulled up in front of the Duke Farm and beeped his cruiser's horn. He waited, but no one appeared in the doorway. Sighing in annoyance, he climbed out of the patrol car and knocked on the door. It cracked open a fraction of an inch, then opened all the way. Jesse stood there, his old squirrel rifle in his hands. “Oh, Roscoe, it's you,” he said, stepping back.
“Who in tarnation did you expect, Billy the Kid? Is Becka ready? Won't be smart if she's late to her doctor's appointment.”
“Hi, Daddy,” said Becka, coming into the room. Her face was pale and dark circles ringed her brown eyes. “Come on, y'all. Let's go.”
Coltrane's eyebrows flew up and he looked hard at her. “What in the world have you been doin', darlin'? You look like you ain't slept in days.”
“We had visitors couple nights ago, Roscoe,” answered Coy, taking Becka's arm. “They was watchin' from the trees up on the hill. Vance and me went after ‘em, but we lost ‘em.”
Before her father could reply, Becka held up her hand. “Don't start, Daddy. It's not their fault. Can we just get this over with? I'm too dang tired to fight with you.” She headed for the door, her boots raising clouds of dust as she crossed the yard and climbed into the General.
Coy and Vance followed, their faces sheepish. The Sheriff sniffed and rolled his eyes. “Bring her back to my office when the doctor's done with her.” Both vehicles sped off towards town.
“You sure you wanna do this, sweetheart?” Coy said as he wrapped his arm around her shoulders. “We coulda had Dr. Moss come out here for ya.”
“I'm sure he's got better things to do than drive all the way out here, Coy,” smiled the young woman, leaning against his side. “Besides, I got the two most handsome bodyguards in the Hazzard County watchin' over me. Those creeps don't scare me. Let them come and try somethin'. I may look delicate, but anyone who knows me well enough knows I can defend myself if I need to.”
Vance coughed to cover his laughter. “I sure wouldn't want to tangle with you, sugar,” he chuckled. “I've seen you chuck a bale of hay, remember?”
“Shoot, that's nothin'. Y'all shoulda seen me when I was in shape. My stepfather and I used to ride buckin' broncos when we was ridin' the rodeo circuit.”
Coy grinned. “I kinda like the shape you're in now, honey,” he flirted. “But I'll feel a whole lot better when we get home where I can protect you.”
Becka smiled, affectionately patting her sweetheart's cheek. “Uh huh, but whose gonna protect you from me , darlin'?” she teased. “If you ain't careful, I may have to hog-tie you and toss you in the barn to make you behave.”
“That'd be a sight,” chortled Vance. “All right; we're here. Come on, you two. Y'all can wrestle later.”
The young woman turned red and giggled. “Okay, okay, I'll mind my manners.” She followed the boys into the hospital. Dr. Moss was waiting for her and led the young woman into a treatment room.
“How are you feeling, Miss Duffy? Anything unusual, like blurred vision?” he asked.
“Nope, I feel great,” answered Becka. “I'll sure be glad to get my stitches out, though. They itch like the devil.”
Moss chuckled. “That cut is healing very well. Look at me, please.” He pulled a penlight from his pocket and flashed in into Becka's eyes. “Good, good, completely normal. I'd like to see you again same time next week and I'll remove those sutures. Make an appointment with the nurse before you leave.”
“Yes, sir. Thank you.” Before she could leave, the door flew open and Lloyd walked in, brandishing a gun. “Well, hello, again, sweetheart. Don't move, Doc, and nobody'll get hurt.”
Becka gasped in horror, recognizing the man. “Oh my God, it's you !” she said, glancing behind him. The other bank robber stood there, holding a pistol on Coy and Vance. “I'll come along quietly; just don't hurt them,” she begged.
Lloyd grinned menacingly. “Glad you decided to cooperate, missy.” He grabbed Becka's arm and dragged her out of the room and down the hall. “We're gonna have a little talk about what you thought you saw in Capitol City . If you behave, you might get out of this alive.” Out in the parking lot, he shoved the frightened young woman into the car. Bucky appeared seconds later and jumped in. The car sped away as Coy, Vance, and Dr. Moss ran out of the hospital.
“Blast it, they let the air out of the General's tires,” growled Coy. “Now what do we do?”
Moss dug into his pocket. “Here,” he said, handing over a set of keys. “Take my car. It's the black Mercedes.” He pointed to the vehicle.
“Call the Sheriff and tell him what happened. Come on, cuz. We're going snake huntin'.”
~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~
Becka's heart pounded wildly as the bank robber's car flew down the road. She closed her eyes, silently praying that they wouldn't crash. The barrel of Lloyd's gun dug into her ribs as he yelled at Bucky, demanding that he drive faster. “Put it to the floor, buddy! Those hicks won't be far behind us!”
“You won't get away with this!” snapped Becka. “I already gave my Daddy a paper detailing everythin' you jerks did in Capitol City .”
Bucky's face turned white. “I told you this was a bad idea, Lloyd! We're done for. We better just give ourselves up before the cops catch us.”
“Shut up and drive, you damn fool. Don't go chicken on me, pal, or I'll deal with you after this nosey broad is out of my hair.”
Bucky swallowed and closed his mouth with a snap. After he had driven a few miles, Lloyd spoke up. “Pull over here, buddy. Get out, little lady,” he ordered Becka.
The young woman crawled out of the car, her hands shaking as the man pointed his gun at her. Her foot hit the CB radio, knocking the mic off its hook. It landed on the talk button. Suddenly, Becka came up with a plan. She grimaced, reaching down to grab her ankle. “Ouch! I think I sprained it!” she yelped. “I can't put no weight on it.”
Bucky shot a glance at his partner, who stood frozen in surprise. Becka noticed the man's hesitation and poured it on even thicker. “Why did y'all bring me here anyways? It's hardly the place to dump a body. It would kinda spoil the sheer Heaven of this place.”
“What do you care, honey?” sneered Lloyd. “It ain't like you're gonna be around long enough to enjoy it.”
“How could I, considered you crossed so many bridges on the way up here.” **”Coy, I certainly hope you're hearin' this, sugar,” ** she thought. **”This could be my only chance.”**
~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~
Coy eyes widened when he heard the transmission. His mind whirled as he sorted out the clues. “Oh my Lord,” he breathed, staring at Vance, who was driving. “I know where those fellas took her. We were up there a couple weeks ago.”
“What are you talkin' about, cousin?” asked Vance, bewildered.
Coy blushed. “I took Becka up to those old Indian caves. She commented that the place was like ‘a little slice of Heaven'. We had to cross a lot of creeks to get there. She must have figured out a way to open a signal without them knowin' it.”
“Well, I'll be,” grinned Vance, snatching up the mic. “Lost Sheep to Shepherd. Uncle Jesse , did y'all hear that?”
“We sure did. We'll meet y'all there. But be careful. Those fellas got guns and you and Coy ain't I'm gone.”
~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~
“Enough stallin', girlie,” snapped Lloyd as he dragged Becka out of the car, his hand clamped around her wrist in a bruising grip. “Bucky, take her back into the caves and get rid of her.”
The other man paled. “Why me?” he grumbled. He sighed when he saw the look on his partner's face. “Come on, miss. Let's get it over with. Sorry I have to do this to ya.”
The young woman nodded in mock defeat. “It's all right. You're only doin' it cuz you have to.” She followed Bucky into the dark cave. After they had walked a few feet, the light from outside disappeared, leaving them in complete blackness. She drew back her leg and kicked him in the ankle as hard as she could and ran down a dimly-seen passage.
“Damn it, you bitch!” shouted Bucky. He took off after her, bumping into a wall and dropping his gun. “Blast it!” he growled, turning back and exiting the cave.
“What the Hell happened?” screamed Lloyd, his face purple with rage.
“She kicked me and ran off down another tunnel. It's so blasted dark in there, I lost sight of her.”
The bank robbers looked up as the General Lee came into view. “Never mind her. We got other problems. Get in the damn car!” shouted Lloyd as he started the engine. Before he could put the car into gear, Uncle Jesse pulled up behind him in the pick-up, cutting off his escape. Coy and Vance leaped out of the General and ran forward. They dragged the criminals out of their vehicle and laid into them, fists flying.
“That's enough, boys!” shouted Jesse. He grabbed Coy's shoulders and tore him away from Bucky. The bank robber's face was streaked with blood and he was whimpering.
“Becka!” called Vance. “Where are you, darlin'? You can come out now.”
The young woman inched out of the cavern, peaking around the rocky corner. Her face lit up when she saw the Dukes and she ran forward, straight into Coy's arms. “Are you boys all right?” she gasped, wrapping him in a bear hug. “I see y'all got my message,” she grinned.
“And we ain't the only ones,” chuckled Vance, pointing down the road. Both Hazzard patrol cars were speeding up the hill, lights flashing and sirens blaring. They skidded to a stop and Roscoe and Enos jumped out. “Becka! My baby girl! Are you all right?” crowed the Sheriff. “They didn't scuff you too bad, did they?”
“No, Daddy, I'm fine,” answered the young woman. “I faked bein' hurt and managed to press my foot against the CB mic. For bank robbers, these creeps sure are stupid. They didn't even notice!” she laughed.
Roscoe smiled. “Enos, cuff ‘em and stuff ‘em!” he ordered. “We'll hand these turkeys over to the State Police as soon as they get here from Atlanta .” He turned to his daughter. “How am I gonna explain this to your Mama? She's gonna be madder than a wet hen when she hears.”
Becka burst out laughing. “Mama is used to me gettin' in scrapes, Daddy. But, if I was you, I'd put on your riot gear before you tell her.”
“Come on, sugar,” said Coy. “Let's get you back to town. You sure they didn't hurt you?”
“No, but I'm kinda shaky. A few kisses might make me right as rain real quick,” she hinted.
~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~
Back in town, Gretchen was waiting in front of the courthouse. Boss and Lulu stood with her, watching as the woman paced in agitation. She stopped, shaking a finger in Hogg's face. “You better pray those guys didn't hurt my Rebecca, J.D., or I'm gonna tar and feather your worthless carcass!” she growled.
Lulu covered her mouth to hide her giggles. Her husband puffed up like a banty rooster and chewed his cigar. “Your daughter can take care of herself, Gretchen,” he blustered. “I'd be more worried about them bank robbers, if I was you.”
The woman started to reply, but bit off her words when the General Lee pulled to a stop in front of her. Becka climbed out, a wide grin on her face. “Hi, Mama,” she said casually, her eyes twinkling with mischief.
“Rebecca, are you all right, baby? Of all the fool things to get messed up in! My stars, you're gonna give me gray hairs!”
“I've never felt better in my life!” giggled the young woman. “Except for one little thing. I'm starvin'. Can we get somethin' to eat before I faint dead away?”
Gretchen rolled her eyes as the others laughed. “I swear, you get more like your Daddy every day,” she muttered. She turned to the Dukes. “I want to thank you boys for rescuin' my daughter. You remind me of your Uncle Jesse.”
Coy and Vance colored and looked a their boots. “Thank you, ma'am,” whispered Coy. “You ain't gonna take her back to Alabama now, are ya? I'm kind of attached to her.”
“I wouldn't dream of it, young man. She'd never forgive me, because I'd be takin' her away from her Prince Charming.”
~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~
After a short trial, Lloyd and Bucky were sent to Federal Prison. Becka's testimony about what she saw after the robbery proved invaluable to the prosecution's case. When the young woman left the courthouse, she found her father standing outside, waiting for her. “Will y'all excuse me for a minute?” she said to the Dukes.
“Sure, honey,” said Daisy. “We'll wait for you over by the cars.”
Roscoe smiled as his daughter approached. “I'm very proud of you, darlin',” he said softly. “You're a very brave young lady, just like your Mama.”
“Thank you, Daddy,” replied Becka, hugging him. “I just thank my lucky stars Coy, Vance, and Jesse got to me before those creeps could carry out their plan. I thought I was a goner for sure!”
Coltrane chuckled. “I never thought I'd say this about a Duke, but I do believe Coy is good for you, sweetheart. I give both of y'all my blessin'.”
Becka's smile lit up her pretty face. “I'm glad,” she whispered. “Now, if you could only get Uncle Jefferson to say the same thing! But, I know that would be like tryin' to get teeth from a rooster,” she giggled.
Roscoe laughed with her. “If he raises a fuss, you just do to him what you did to that bank robber. Now, darlin', I got a little surprise for you!”
“A surprise? Really? what is it?” asked the young woman eagerly.
“It's at home, waitin' for us. But I reckon you have plans with Coy. I suppose it can wait a while.”
“Are you kiddin' me?” grinned Becka. “I wouldn't be able to concentrate all night cuz of the suspense. Wait here, Daddy, and I'll tell Coy I'll meet up with him later.” She sped off, leaving the Sheriff standing there chuckling.
“Oh, Flash, she's gonna be so surprised!” he snickered. “I can't wait to see her face when she meets Momma Coltrane!”
Becka peppered her father with questions as they drove home. To his credit, Roscoe didn't breathe a word, telling the eager young woman that she would just have to wait and see.
“Daddy, that's not fair!” complained Becka with a pout. “Can't you give me a teeny, tiny little hint?”
“You'll see soon enough, darlin'. Go on now; your surprise is in the parlor.”
The young woman opened the front door and dashed into the small sitting room. Her eyes widened when she saw a tiny, gray-haired woman sitting on the sofa. The woman rose to greet her as Roscoe entered the house.
“Rebecca, this is your Grandma Coltrane. Momma, this is Rebecca, my baby girl.”
The elderly woman stepped forward, smiling warmly. “Hello, Rebecca. I'm very pleased to meet you, dear.”
The young woman wrapped her arms around her grandmother, hugging her gently. A laugh bubbled from her lips. “I should have done this years ago,” she gasped breathlessly. “I thought I didn't have any other kin besides my Mama. I come to Hazzard and end up with a whole bunch of family!”
The three generations of Coltranes talked late into the night. As Becka learned more about her roots, a sudden thought entered her mind. “Uh, Daddy? Are you sure I don't have any brothers or sisters in the world someplace?” she teased playfully.
Roscoe coughed, caught off guard by her question. “No, Becka, you're my only child,” he choked.
“Oh, okay. I guess I'll have to get married and give you some more kinfolk,” she grinned, winking at her grandmother, who laughed.
“You've got plenty of time for that, dear. Now, it's time for bed. You have to work in the mornin'. Good night,” she said, kissing her granddaughter's cheek affectionately.
“With everythin' that's happened, I doubt I could sleep a wink! Good night, Daddy. Good night, Grandma.”
“She's everythin you said she was, Roscoe.”
“She sure is, Momma. I'm proud to call her my child.”
~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~
The next morning, Becka was busy stocking shelves a the general store when Coy came running in. “Well, good mornin' to you, Miss Duffy,” he laughed, handing her a bouquet of wildflowers. “These posies can't begin to match your beauty.”
The young woman giggled. “Why, you're too kind, Mr. Duke. What brings you by this fine day?”
“I wanted to tell you somethin', sugar. My cousins, Bo and Luke, are comin' for a visit and I want them to meet you. Think you could fit me into your busy schedule?”
Becka tapped her chin with a slender finger. “I am pretty swamped, but I suppose I could squeeze you in,” she teased. “After all, you did save my life and all. When are they gonna be here?”
“Vance, Daisy, and Uncle Jesse are pickin' them up from the airport right now,” replied Coy, his dimples flashing. “They should be back any minute now.” As he spoke, the General Lee pulled up outside. “Looks like they're already here. Come on, darlin'.”
The couple walked out of the store, waving away the dust churned up by the vehicle's wheels. Standing beside the car, Becka saw two tall young men. Her eyes flew open wide when she recognized them. “ You !” she gasped, her eyes flashing angrily. “Of all people!”