Character Bios and Updates...(S4-E0)

With so much going on now in the episodes, I figured now would be a good time to reflect on and refresh everyone's Character Bios. Plus it's a great reference for any new comers to the stories. Also, it helps me as well :)

So the residents of OneSixthAvenue mainly revolve around my star couple Luke and Laura. They are the ones that inspire my storytelling :) A close second to that would be Laura's sister Michelle and her new boyfriend Benjamin. I don't think I will ever get sick of Luke and Laura :P

First and foremost of course is...

 Name: Luke Allen Cooper

Age: 35
Hair: A gorgeous brown 
Eyes: Brown
Height: 6ft
Occupation:  Owner of "Vintage Vinyl" Record Store
Hometown: Born and raised in Seattle, Washington
Currently: New Orleans, Louisiana
Marital Status: Never married ~currently in a relationship with Laura Lavigne
Hobbies: listening to rock music, reading about rock music, playing rock music on his guitar, riding his motorcycle, tattoos, and of course Laura...

Luke is a survivor. He had a rough childhood, his Mom was a loose cannon and often left Luke to deal with things on his own at a very young age.  Mom, Cyndi, was young when she had him and her marriage to his Dad didn't last very long. Luke's Dad left when he was just a baby and never looked back. 
Growing up as a teenager in Seattle, Luke was right in the heart of grunge and alternative music. Inspired by bands like Nirvana and Pearl Jam. Music is what gave him the will to pursue a better life. As soon as he graduated high school, he worked his way into the music biz and in his early 20's worked prepping stages for musicians and bands all over.  The first time he came to New Orleans he knew this is where he wanted to settle down. So, after his wild partying days were behind him and the time came to move on he scraped together everything he had to open his business. About a year later he was introduced to Laura by a mutual friend and he has never regretted his decision to pack up and move to a new city.

Name: Laura Ophelia Lavigne

 Age: 30
Hair: strawberry red
Eyes: Green
Height: 5ft 9"
Occupation:  Master Chef at a local French Restaurant Ma Chérie
Hometown: Born and raised in New Orleans, Louisiana
Currently: New Orleans, Louisiana
Marital Status: Never married ~currently in a relationship with Luke Cooper
Hobbies: cooking, shopping with her sister, reading a good book, and spending time with her man.

Laura's passion is good food and fashion. And now Luke too. She worked her way through culinary school waiting tables by day and creating recipes by night. Daughter of Scott and Krystal Lavigne. As a child she was always the helpful older sister. What she loved the most was to help her Mom cook. Now as and adult she has made a name for herself in the restaurant business, and hopes to one day open her own cafe.  She is a very passionate person and believes that delicious food is the fuel that feeds it.

Name: Michelle Ava Lavigne

Age: 25
Hair: Dark brown
Eyes: Golden Brown
Height: 5ft 8"
Occupation: Paralegal, studying to become a Lawyer
Hometown: New Orleans,LA
Currently: New Orleans,LA
Marital Status: Never Married.... Currently dating: Benjamen Trudeau 
Hobbies: shopping with her sister, studying law, gossiping with her girlfriends, watching a good mystery movie, and now spending time with Benjamin...

Scott and Krystal's younger daughter is completely opposite of her older sister. Michelle is the kinda girl that thinks she knows what she wants and will do whatever it takes to achieve that goal. She is stubborn, headstrong, and not afraid to say what is on her mind. Which sometimes gets her into trouble. She recently moved back home after going to college. She has a degree in business but is currently pursuing to become a lawyer. She has recently gotten very serious with Benjamin and they both seem to be very happy.

Name: Benjamin Trudeau

Age: 32
Hair: Blonde
Eyes: Blue
Height: 6ft 2"
Occupation: Trudeau Contracting~CEO in training 
(Dad is not quite ready to give him full reign)
Hometown: New Orleans, LA
Currently: New Orleans, LA
Marital Status: Never married....

Currently Dating: Michelle Lavigne
Hobbies: hunting with his Dad and younger brother, working his Dad's ranch when he finds the time, caring for his horses, drinking with his best friend Aric, watching football, spending time outdoors, and lastly it was picking up random women but now spending as much time as he can with Michelle...
  

Heir to the Trudeau Construction empire and a well known ladies man around town......Ask any girl who has dated him and she will tell you that Benjamen is afraid of commitment and moves from one girl to the next. Benjamin is set to take over the successful family business in a few more years. His father just wishes he would settle down before then and stop wasting time and money on one night stands. Best friends with Aric Metzger ,whom he has known since they were kids, because their Mothers were very good friends. Which was cut short when his mother passed away in a tragic car accident when he was 10 years old. His Father focused all his attention into family business, so Benjamin ended up spending a lot of time with Aric's family and they naturally formed a brotherly bond from a young age.

  Cynthia Ann Rawlins-Cooper

Age: 52
Hair: Red
Eyes: Green
Occupation: To tell you the truth I have no idea how she gets by. 
I don't know what kind of work she does...
Hometown: Seattle, Washington
Currently: New Orleans, LA

 Marital Status: Divorced and still looking for Mr. Right (at least I think she is)
Hobbies: Besides driving Luke crazy ???? I have no idea :P

Cynthia was always a wild one. She was pregnant at 17 with Luke and married his father at 18 years of age. A year later they divorced and she raised Luke on her own. It wasn't easy being a single mom but she made it work at least she thought she did. Luke managed to grow up into a responsible adult despite her waywardness at times. 



Krystal Lavigne 

Age: 54
Hair: Frosted Blonde
Eyes: Blue 
 Occupation: Part-time Interior Designer
Hometown: Houston,TX
Currently:  New Orleans, LA
Marital Status: Married to Scott Lavigne
Hobbies: interior design, cooking, keeping involved in her daughters' lives

    Mother to their 2 daughters Laura and Michelle Lavigne.
Fell in love and married her much older college sweetheart. Then moved to New Orleans when he took up a job there. 




Aric Metzger

Age: 32
Hair: Blond
Eyes: Blue
Height: 6ft 
Occupation: Owner and operator of Bull Tavern Bar
Hometown: New Orleans, LA
Currently: New Orleans, LA
Marital Status: Married to Roxie Metzger
Hobbies: riding his motorcycle, watching football and drinking with his best friend Benjamin, caring and up keeping his bar

Aric and Roxie Metzger were happily married at the tender age of 18. These two were high school sweethearts and have been inseparable since. They took all their savings and opened a bar and named it Bull Tavern. Aric also has 2 younger twin sisters Mila and Mina. Aric is a good ol' boy. He is a honest and straight forward guy. He loves his woman, his Harley, and his beer. Aric has been friends with Luke since he moved to New Orleans. Their businesses were originally next to each other and this is how they met. Since then they have become good friends and find they have much in common.
 

Roxanne "Roxie" Metzger

 Age: 32
Hair: Jet black
Eyes: Brown
Occupation: Co-owner and operator of Bull Tavern Bar
Hometown: New Orleans, LA
Currently: New Orleans, LA
Marital Status: Married to Aric Metzger
Hobbies: riding her motorcycle with Aric and their friends, taking care of her man, shopping with friends when she can find the time

Roxie is easy going and easy to get along with but the claws will come out if you mess with her or any of her family and friends. She and Aric have always had a strong bond. They are content with just each other and never plan on having any children. I would say they are definitely the most grounded and level headed couple out of all their friends...


Mina Metzger and Jai

I don't know if I will ever expand much with these characters but at the moment this is all I got.
Age: 22
Occupation: Personal Trainer/aerobics instructor
Hometown: New Orleans,LA
Currently: New Orleans,LA
Marital Status: Never married...
Currently dating long time boyfriend Jai
Mina is the tomboy of the two girls. She is always into some sporting activity. Her and her boyfriend Jai both work together at the local health club/gym.   There is a 10 year age difference between Aric and his sisters.  He has been a very supportive and overprotective brother from a young age ever since their father left when the girls were 2 yrs old.


Mila Metzger and Ken Carson

I don't know if I will ever expand much with these characters but at the moment this is all I got.
Age: 22 
Occupation: secretary/ Law school
Hometown: New Orleans,LA
Currently: New Orleans,LA
Marital Status: Never Married...currently dating Dr. Ken Carson
Mila is the complete opposite of her sister. She thinks sports are ridiculous but she loves some good courtroom drama. She works hard and studies hard. She hopes to be a successful lawyer one day. 
Big brother Aric was not happy when she introduced him to Ken at first.  Ken is a successful Doctor and is nearly twice his little sister's age. It took awhile but Ken proved himself and Aric now approves of their relationship.


Peter Morissey

Age: 35
Hair Dirty Blonde
Eyes: Brown
Height: 5ft 11''
Occupation: He has a job I just have no idea what it is yet :)
Hometown: Seattle, Washington
Currently: New Orleans, LA
Marital Status: Never Married
Currently Dating: Fionna ???
Hobbies: playing drums but doesn't have any to play at the moment, writing music, traveling, smoking pot and kicking back

Peter is a lot like Luke. They have known each other for quite awhile. Both started working the music scene back in Seattle and became friends right away. They worked together for many years and you could say they were best friends up until Luke quit and left everything behind.  Peter did remember he mentioned something about settling down in New Orleans so eventually  Peter decided too to get out of the music business. He bounced around for awhile and fate finally brought these to friends together again.


Fionna ???

 Age: 21
Hair: Brown
Eyes: Green
Occupation: Store Clerk at Vintage Vinyl 
Hometown: ???
Currently: New Orleans, LA
Marital Status: Never Married
Currently Dating: Peter Morissey
Hobbies: ???

Fionna met Peter after Luke had already packed up and left. Fionna found her way into all of it as a groupie at first. Fionna was a great distraction for Peter and they both had much in common. She ended up just following him since she had nothing better to do. There is still much to learn about her. She is quiet and doesn't speak much.


Isolde Peterson

Age: 27
Hair: Brown
Eyes: Hazel
 Occupation: Bar Tender
Hometown: Seattle, Washington
Currently: New Orleans, LA
Marital status: Never married.....single at the moment and loving it
  
Also briefly dated Benjamin but that was cut short cause she quickly learned he was not the kind of guy she want to be with.
Isolde ended up moving to New Orleans when she was a kid. Her Mother decided to move back to her hometown after a messy divorce with Isolde's Father. Isolde works at Bull Tavern as their main Bar Tender. She is an all around tomboy who loves her sports and a cold mug of beer. She is very easy going and laid back but also loves a good adrenaline rush. She is also the mutual friend that introduced Luke to Laura. She knows Luke since she works for Aric.
And she knows Laura from the gym she works out at.
   

 Cruz Peterson

Age: 32
Hair: Brown
Eyes: Blue
Height: 6ft 5"
Occupation: Engineer currently employed by the 
University of Florida
Hometown: Seattle, Washington
Currently: Gainesville, Florida
Marital Status: Never married~ engaged to Holland Grayson

Like his sister Isolde, Cruz was not too happy about packing up and moving after his parents' nasty divorce.  He ended up having to start high school in a brand new school which was in a completely different city and state.  This changed quickly though. Cruz became very popular once he was selected to be quarterback of the schools football team.  Cruz ended up finding some good friends along the way, he was always in competition with Benjamin over something, Aric always tried to thwart their craziness and wasn't always successful, Hayden sometimes was stuck in the middle but enjoyed every minute of it.

Hayden Jones

Age: 32
Hair: Black
Eyes: Brown
Height: 5ft 11"
Occupation: Officer/Detective with the New Orleans Police Dept. 
Hometown: New Orleans, LA
Currently: New Orleans, LA
Marital Status: Never married~ engaged to Carmen Rivas
  
Hayden is a very hardworking and devoted man to his city.  Became a cop right after he graduated high school and has been working his way up the ranks since.  Although he went to high school with his finance Carmen they never dated as teenagers but were friends. It wasn't until about 10 years later that they realized they wanted to be more than just friends.  Hayden enjoys a good game of football and cracking a case. He is a very honest, straight forward person, and is not afraid to tell you when you screwed up. 


Carmen Rivas

Age: 30
Hair: Brown
Eyes: Brown
Occupation: Bank Manager
Hometown: New Orleans, LA
Currently: New Orleans, LA
Marital Status: Never Married~ engaged to Hayden Jones

A couple years younger than the rest of the gang but Carmen was friends with all of them in high school. Carmen has a very bubbly and friendly personality. She loves to talk and get to know everyone around her.  She was reconnected with Hayden when her bank was robbed at gunpoint. At first they just got together to catch up but, quickly things changed and one thing lead to another. They ended up falling for each other and that was where their relationship started.




Penelope Vargas

Age: 30
Hair: Brown
Eyes: Brown
Occupation: Department Store Manager
Hometown: New Orleans, LA
Currently: New Orleans, LA
Marital Status: Never married...Single at the moment
Briefly dated Benjamen
Penelope and Laura have been best friends since high school. They remain close friends to this day.
They are both girly girls, so they love to go shopping together and chat about all the latest gossip. Penelope is a very passionate and caring person. She works full time as a department store manager. She loves helping people and putting a smile on a customer's face.

I know I mention her more than I show her but I do have plans for her to turn up in some future episodes :)

  
Kyu ???

Age: 33
Hair: black
Eyes: dark brown
Height: 6ft 4"
Occupation: Architect 
Hometown: ???
Currently: New Orleans, LA
Marital Status: Never married....dating Jasper

Kyu has yet to completely reveal himself to me. He strikes me as a very serious person. Enjoys his work very much. Is a very artistic person. Loves some of the finer things in life....
Aric ended up hiring Kyu to help redesign the old building into a bar. Kyu was recommended by his real estate agent. Not super close friends but do enjoy to hang every once in awhile.


Jasper ???

Age: 31
Hair: Dirty Blonde
Eyes: Green
Occupation: into fashion and loves to design her own clothes, but currently works at an art gallery
Hometown: ???
Currently: New Orleans, LA
Marital Status: Never married~ currently in a relationship with Kyu

Art is what brought these two together. Jasper met him while Kyu was purchasing art at her gallery. They seem to hit it off right away. 




Andrew ???

Age: 28
Hair: Dark Brown
Eyes: Brown
Occupation: he was a TA at the college Michelle was attending

His bio is still sketchy. I'm not sure where or if I will add him in again.
So this is what I got on him for now. 
He is a cocky, arrogant, little bastard. Loves to stir up trouble. He is very smart and is usually good at getting away with stuff. Took advantage of Michelle and other girls who attended his class at college.  I'm sure one day he will get his comeuppance....


 James ???

Age: ???
Hair: dirty blonde
Eyes: Blue
 Occupation: ???

James' bio is still sketchy as well. I know I want to add him in but still trying to figure it out. I know he was seen with Andrew in the bar on NYE but I don't think I plan on keeping him associated with Andrew....
So just keep an eye out he will turn up eventually :)

 Well, this is what I got for now. There are a few more characters that I could have added but they are so unimportant right now that I really don't see the point in adding them at the moment. Hope you enjoyed everyone's back stories and stats. 

 Next week is Part 1 of Laura's Doctor Visit
^_^

New Year's Eve at Bull Tavern Part 2...(S3-E16)

Sometime around 11pm....

While Michelle has been outside saying goodbye to Benjamin. Roxie talks for a bit to Luke and Laura. She reveals to them that this is not the first time Benjamin has been in trouble.  Lucky for him, Benjamin has a Father with connections down at city hall.

*Roxie* "Just when we thought Benjamin had outgrown all this......"

*Luke* "Maybe the guy he punched will come to his senses and realize it's just not worth going through the trouble of pressing charges."

*Roxie* "Yeah......maybe."

*Laura* "But you heard what Michelle said, the guy he punched was her old boyfriend from college.  And I don't blame Benjamin for laying into him the way he did.  From what Michelle told me about her ex he sounds like a complete self-centered jerk."

*Luke checks the time on his watch* "Well, she has been out there for about 10 minutes.  We got about an hour till midnight. You think they arrested him?" 

*Laura* "Maybe she left with him if they did arrest  him......Baby,  go check and see if they are still out there."

Luke is about to get up and go check for her but Roxi stops him.

*Roxie* "Luke, wait.....she just walked in the door."

Michelle doesn't look happy. She walks over to the three of them and more tears start rolling down her face.

*Laura* "I'm assuming they arrested Benjamin."

*Michelle with a slight sob* "Yeah..."

Roxie puts her hand on Michelle's back to reassure her it's okay.

*Roxie* "Oh, Sweetie!....I'm sorry. I was hoping Hayden wouldn't have to.....Just know he is gonna be okay. I'm sure he will get it resolved soon enough. Benjamin has been through this before.*with some sarcasm* I'm sure Daddy will make it all go away....." 

*Michelle* "Thanks, Roxie.....that explains why he acted like it wasn't a big deal...."

*Roxie* "Well.....As much as I would love to stay and chat I need to get back to work."

Everyone acknowledges what she said and

Roxie gets up to go back to work. Luke also stands and offers his seat to Michelle. He knows Laura is going to want to talk to her sister...

*Michelle tries to smile* "Thanks, Luke..."

*Luke speaking to  Michelle* "I can see the look on your sister's face. She wants you to talk to her....." *he turns to look at Laura* "...Babe, I'll be at the bar if you need me."

*Laura* "Okay..."

So Luke goes to hang at the bar with Aric and Isolde. Michelle sits down next to her sister. Laura does her best to console her....

*Laura* " You know, if you want us to, we can take you home. Instead of hanging out here, if that's what you want." 

*Michelle grabs his hat and runs her fingers across it* "No...no...I'd rather stay. I think I would just go more insane at home."

*Laura* Okay, but if you change your mind let me know....*They sit in silence for a bit*....I'm sure by this time tomorrow you'll be with Benjamin and all of tonight will be behind you."

*Michelle still playing with his hat, trying to find some comfort in it* "I hope so......"

*she pauses* "God!!....I miss him terribly already!......."
*Laura* "You two really are in love, aren't you?"

*Michelle presses his hat against her, breathes him in and sighs* "Yeah.....I never imagined he would be this wonderful or that we could be this happy. I know you had your doubts about him, I did too at first but oh my god!!, he is amazing!!!"

*Laura looks at her sister and smiles* "Hmmmm......Believe me, I know exactly how you feel. I have never been happier than when I am with Luke......"
*Michelle* "I really think he could be the one...."
*Laura* "Don't you think that's a little premature?"
*Michelle* "No...look at you and Luke.  You two hooked up faster than Benjamin and I. How is that any different?"

*Laura* "Yeah,  your right. I guess I just need to get used to the idea of you two still." *Then she pauses and her mind drifts to her situation. Stressing over the fact that she has to tell her parents she is pregnant and still not planning on getting married just  yet.*
*Michelle noticing a change in her face* "Hey....Laura....earth to Laura!...you okay?"
*Laura snaps out of it* "Huh? Oh! Sorry....I was just thinking about something."
*Michelle* "You looked really worried...."
*Laura* "I'm fine. It's just something that.I.....you know what? It's not important. Back to you and Benjamin. What did he say to you before he left..."
*Michelle* "Well.....he did mention that he was going to do whatever he could to come back hear before midnight...."

 *Laura* "Really? Wow! No wonder you don't want to leave....but  I don't know about that..."

*Michelle continues to hold onto his hat* "That's what I told him. I don't know.... maybe he thinks he can still get Andrew to drop the charges before they book him or something. 

I just hope that's the case."

*Laura* "Roxie did mention his Dad has connections  downtown but it's New Year's Eve so I don't see how...."
*Michelle sighs* "Yeah I know.....everyone else in here has got someone to kiss at midnight except me!......Ugh!!  Of all nights for Andrew to show up at this bar....he picks this one!"
Michelle throws his hat over her face. Now she is feeling a bit angry because Andrew ruined her wonderful evening.

 *Laura* "I know....it sucks....but it's not the end of the world. Let's just hope you never have to hear from or see Andrew again. Because I don't think a second run in with him and Benjamin would  bode well at all."
*Michelle* "He got furious with him. I mean, I know Andrew touched me but I could have handled him....I think what set him off was when he found out who he was exactly. And then Andrew had to have the last word..."
*Laura* "Yeah....and you didn't see his face when he saw you at the bar. Luke and I, we were kinda in shock....cause we didn't know what was going on behind us. I don't see anything wrong with Benjamin punching him, he was defending you...Besides, Andrew needed to be put in his place."
Michelle feels like she needs to be alone it's now only a matter of minutes away from midnight.  So she decides to excuses herself from the table and go into the ladies room. Luke sees that Laura is alone and calls her over to him. He is talking with Peter and Fionna who have just arrived a few moments ago.

*Luke* "You remember my friend Peter... Well, it looks they are going to being moving here permanently."
*Laura* "Yes, I remember....Hello so nice to see you again."

Both Peter and Fionna say hello back in response to hers.
*Peter* "Yeah we really like it here and I found a pretty good job. Now Fi just needs to find one."
*Laura* "Oh....yeah? We can always use waitresses at the restaurant. Do you have any experience waiting tables?"
*Luke* "Or...I could always use the help at the record shop. I have been looking to hire someone else. You'd be perfect for position."
*Peter* "Wow, Luke...you really okay with that?....that would be great, right Fi?"

*Fionna* "Yeah,....yeah. Working at your record shop would be fun.  Thanks for the waitress offer, though. But I don't think I would be go at waitressing."

*Peter* "Awesome!....Now you got a job."
Peter turns back to Luke and thanks him and shakes his hand.

*Peter* "Thanks, Luke. You have no idea how happy this makes us. I think Fi will be a great help to you at the shop."

*Luke* "Yeah,....no man don't worry about it. The last person I hired didn't know sh*t about music liked they claimed to, so they ended up quitting....I think this will work out."

While Luke is talking with Peter. Laura looks and Fionna and doesn't like what she sees. She feels like hiring her at the record shop is a bad idea. She is not worried about Luke's faithfulness to her but there is something about her that doesn't sit well with Laura. Fionna notices her stare and try to act nonchalant. So, Laura turns to see if her sister has come out of the ladies room."

*Luke looks down at his watch* "Oh, wow! It's almost midnight. Hey, you two want to come sit with us? We will probably be here for a little longer."
*Peter* "Sure....we're just gonna order us some drinks..."
Peter and Fionna turn to the bar to ask Isolde for some beers. Luke turns to talk to Laura. She looks a little pale and upset.

*Luke* "Babe, you okay? You feeling sick?"
*Laura* "Just a little tired and I'm worried about Michelle. I should probably go check on her."

While they are talking the noise level in the bar starts to rise as the clock strikes midnight. Everyone is hollering and saying 'Happy New Year'."  Luke pulls her close and kisses her.
*Luke* "Happy New Year, Babe....you know this time next year there will be 3 of us..."
*Laura smiles at him* "Yeah....*she kisses him again* .....Happy New Year, Baby."

Luke takes her to sit down next to him in the booth. As soon as they get comfortable Michelle comes out of the restroom.

*Michelle* "Sorry I took so long..just need to think alone for a few minutes."
*Laura leaning into Luke and looking very tired* "It's okay....you want us to take you home? Luke and I aren't gonna stay much longer."
*Michelle* "If you don't mind that would be great. Let me just grab Benjamin's things and I'll be ready to go."
*Laura* "Okay..."

Michelle turns to grab Benjamin's jacket and hat and can't help but feel sad that he is not here with her. Their first new years kiss spoiled by Andrew.  She can almost hear him now, telling her with his southern charm 'Happy New Year, Darlin'.."
She shutters a little.....and thinks Wow! his voice sounds like it is almost here....

Then she hears it again.
*Benjamin* "Happy New Year, Darlin'."

She quickly turns around....
*Michelle* "Benjamin!! What?....How?....." 

Benjamin takes two big step, grabs onto her at her waist and twirls her around, then dips her down. 

*Benjamin* "I told you I'd be back Darlin'...."

Michelle's eyes light up with joy. Benjamin pulls her back up and gives her her first kiss of the new year.

 The room stood still for a long moment, Michelle was taken in by his kiss. Then, he finally pulls away and looks down at her.

*Michelle* "How?....I was so sure I wouldn't see you. Did you get Andrew to drop it?"
*Benjamin* "You could say that.*She looks at him a little puzzled*...Don't worry it's been taken care of. He will never bother you or me again...."
*Michelle* "I....just can't believe you are here..."
*Benjamin pulls her in tight and kisses her again* "I'm here Darlin' and I'm not going anywhere....Now, you ready to go home with me?"
*Michelle* "Yes....yes...I am."

*Aric interrupts the 2 lovers* "Ya'll take that sh*t somewhere else.....Glad to see your back Benji."
*Benjamin* "That's what were doin', Aric. We're going home."
*Aric* "Good cause you got people watching you....You two have a Happy New Year...."
*Benjamin* "Goodnight...Aric,  happy new year as well."
*Aric* "Night, Benji....We'll talk tomorrow."
Benjamin waves off to Aric and then grabs his hat and puts his jacket around Michelle. While Michelle waves goodbye to her sister and Luke.  Benjamin wraps his arm around her and they walk out the door.

*Benjamin his voice gets deeper and drawls out his words* "Git ready Darlin, cause your not gettin' any sleep tanight."

*Michelle smiles and laughs softly* "Hmmmm, that's fine by me...."


Michelle and Benjamin take their leave and shortly after so do many of the other customers at Bull Tavern.  The night slowly comes to a close and everyone ended up having a good New Year's Eve.  


Hope all of you had a safe and happy New Year!

New Year's Eve at Bull Tavern...(S3-E15)

I was hoping to get in some Christmas pics this year but that just didn't happen. I was so determined to get that Cabin diorama going that I never had any time to take Christmas pictures. Well at least I got to decorate Luke and Laura's place....

So, of course everyone has had a nice Christmas with the exception of Luke having to deal with his Mom moving to town. Luckily she has kept what she knows to herself, mainly because they have repeatedly asked her not to. Also because Luke and Laura do not want to announce they are expecting until Laura has had her first checkup with the Doctor.  

It is now New Year's Eve and everyone, friends and family is gathering at Bull Tavern to ring in the new year!

Sometime around 8:00pm.

The bar is starting to fill with customers. Some of which are friends and family. Others are not. 

 Aric talks for a moment with one of his younger sisters, Mina and her longtime boyfriend Jai. Isolde is mixing up a drink for Mina.
Roxie is getting drink orders from a young couple at the 
back of the bar. She had to card these 2, they barely looked legal...

Aric walks over to say hello to 2 of his longtime friends. 
Hayden and Carmen.

They decided to stop by and have one drink before they head off to another New Year's Eve party.

 It looks like Jasper and Kyu have arrived too.
Aric tells them to take the booth in the back.

Roxie delivers 2 cold beers to the young couple then goes over to say hello to Jasper and Kyu.

Aric leaves Hayden and Carmen, so they can finish their drinks, he then also heads over to see how his other friends are doing.

Hayden spots Benjamin through the window and Benjamin
 waves at him.

With Michelle on his arm he escorts her inside. 
Hayden can see a difference in his friend. Benjamin looks 
happy, very happy.

*Hayden* "Hey, man...come and sit. Everyone has been talking about you..."
*Benjamin* "Is that right? My love life is that interesting to all of you?"
*Hayden* "You know everyone just wants to see you finally settle down. You look like sh*t....Did you just get off work?"

Benjamin takes off his hat and runs his fingers through his hair.
 *Benjamin* "Well, aren't you sweet. I had a foreman up and quit today on one of our sites. So, I  ended up spending all day there making sure everything was running smooth." 

*Hayden* "Sounds like your pulling your weight with your Dad's company now."
 *Benjamin* "Sh*t, I do most of his work now....he just stays at home half the time with Ellie."

*Hayden* "Your Dad needs a break, man.  He has been working hard since your Mom passed."
*Benjamin* "Yeah, I know.  I think I'm finally ready to take over....."
*Hayden* "That's good....You sound like a new man Benjamin. I think those partying days are behind you.
Hayden holds up his beer and Benjamin realizes that he doesn't have a beer. He hollers across the bar to Aric.

 *Benjamin* "Aric....Hey, man where's my beer?"
*Aric is used to his loud behavior* "I'll be right there Benji, hold your horses...."
Benjamin turns back around and continues talking with Hayden.
Carmen introduces herself to Michelle and tries to get to know her a little better.

*Carmen* "It's so nice to finally meet you.  Aric has told us a little bit about you. Everyone is so excited that Benjamin is finally in a serious relationship."

*Michelle smiles* "It's nice to meet you too. You've known Benjamin since high school, right?"

*Carmen* "HmmmHmm, Yes. We all went to school together.  Benjamin was always in competition with Cruz.  Girls threw themselves at them left and right, sometimes it was downright ridiculous.
*Michelle unsure how to respond* "I...have heard....he's told me some stories...."
*Carmen* "Well....I wouldn't worry about it, I can see how much he has changed since he met you. I think the old Benjamin is finally gone....and grown up!"

Aric comes over with a beer and a cocktail for Benjamin and Michelle.
*Aric* "What happened to you? Long day at work?"
*Benjamin* "Yeah.....I never got a chance to go home and change."

*Aric turns his attention to Michelle* "He treating you right, Sweetheart? Cause if he doesn't then you tell me and I'll kick his ass for ya..."
*Michelle smiles* "You'll be the first to know...."

 *Hayden* "I second that...."
*Benjamin* "Oh...no! That ain't happening....
 *Aric* "And why not?"
*Benjamin turns to look at her* "Because I never plan on breaking her heart......"

 Michelle blushes at his bold statement.
*Aric looks at Hayden* "Oooweee!! He's got it bad!"

*Hayden laughs* "I know....I almost don't recognize him.
Well....I hate to have to go but we gotta be somewhere else."
*Aric* "Don't worry about it.  I'm glad you were able to stop by for a bit. Maybe once Cruz is back in town we can all pitch in and throw him a bachelor's party. I don't know if you heard but he is getting married...."

*Hayden* "Cruz is getting married!? Wow! I thought for sure he would never settle down."
*Benjamin* "Yeah, so technically that makes me the last Bachelor of the group...."
*Hayden* "I'd shut up if I were you. Your not far behind him...."
Aric sees that is other sister has arrived and says goodbye to Hayden and Carmen. They then get up and say their goodbyes to 
Benjamin and Michelle.

*Hayden* "It was good to see ya man, Happy New Year!"
*Benjamin* "You too, ya'll have a Happy New Year..."
*Carmen* "Bye, Benjamin....You treat her right, okay?"
*Benjamin* "Yes, ma'am..."
Carmen waves goodbye to Michelle and the 2 walk out the door.

Sometime around 9:00pm now...

As they are walking out, Luke and Laura have just arrived.
*Laura* "Everyone is gonna be suspicious of why I am not drinking tonight."
*Luke* "Who cares...let them wonder.  Let's just enjoy the night.  I know it will be hard for you but try to not think about it..."
*Laura* "Easier said than done."

They make their way into the bar and see Michelle sitting alone.
*Laura* "Hey, mind if we join you? Where's Benjamin?"
*Michelle* "No, not all sit down. Benjamin is in the restroom...."
Laura slides into the booth and Luke sits down next to her.

*Michelle* "Wow! You look amazing sis..."
*Laura* "Thanks, so do you."

*Michelle* "Is it just me or do your boobs look bigger..."
*Laura tries to pull her jacket closed* "Ummm....No...no..just you."

Luke can't help but look down at her cleavage.
*Michelle* "I can see some one else here agrees with me.
Luke just smiles and laughs a little.

The door swings open and Benjamin steps out. 
*Benjamin* "I think I finally got most of that construction dust off me, Darlin'.....
Oh! Hey, ya'll just git here?"
*Luke* "Yeah...long day at work?"
*Benjamin* "Yeah.....let me get Aric to get ya'll some beers."
*Michelle* "He's busy.....I'll go..."

*Benjamin* "Okay, Darlin'..."
*Michelle* "Sis, what do you want?"
*Laura* "Just a sparkling water for me..."
*Michelle* "Okay... Luke, beer right?"
*Luke* "Yes..."
Michelle then heads over to the bar to give Isolde the order.

Luke starts making small talk with Benjamin while Laura just listens.

*Michelle* "Hey, Isolde...can I get 2 draft beers and a sparkling water."
*Isolde* "Sure..."
Michelle doesn't even notice but the 2 men who are also at the bar are looking at her.  The one in glasses turns and looks at her....
*Man at the bar* "I knew I recognized that voice.....and that ass." *He tilts his head back to look at her backside*

*Michelle turns to look at his face* "Andrew!! What are you doing here?"
*Andrew* "Having a drink....can I buy you one?"
Michelle* "First of all get your hand off me!"

Benjamin sees the whole thing....
*Benjamin* "What the f*ck!"
He doesn't say anything else just gets up from the table and walks right up to Michelle and the guy that laid his hands on her.

 *Benjamin shoves him back away from her* "You'll do what she says and leave her alone if you
know what's best for you, Buddy..."

*Michelle* "Benjamin, just ignore him...Come on let's go sit back down."

*Andrew taps him on the  back on the shoulder* "First of all I am not your Buddy...and second maybe you should go sit back down. We were just having a nice conversation..."

Benjamin starts the fume with anger...and Michelle can see it.
*Michelle looks at Andrew* "You are such an a**hole, Anderew!"

*Benjamin* "You mean this guy is Andrew? The Andrew from college? That Andrew?"
*Michelle hesitates* "Yes.. Yes it is......just ignore him. Please.  Lets go sit down..."
Michelle turns and starts walking back to the booth. 
Benjamin starts to follow her when...
*Andrew* "That's right listen to your B*tch!...."
Andrew adds just enough fuel to the flame with that last statement .Benjamin turns and cocks his arm back and punches Andrew across the face knocking him down and out.

Michelle gasps and cannot believe he just did that. Everyone in the bar is now completely focused on what just happened.
Benjamin stands and looks down at the knocked down and passed out Andrew.
*Benjamin* "Who's the b*tch now? Motherf...."
*Michelle*"Benjamin!!!"

Michelle is in shock. She turns to face her sister.
*Michelle* "Oh my god! I can't believe he just did that!"
*Laura a little stunned herself* "I know..."
Luke pays no attention to them he is too busy watching 
what is going on.

*Friend* "Don't you think that was a little uncalled for?"
*Benjamin* "What? Now you too?"
*Michelle* "Benjamin! No! He had nothing to do with it.....
......just go sit down and cool off..Now!"
Benjamin does as she asks of him. He sits down in the booth across from Luke and Laura.

Aric and Roxie missed the whole debacle. They come
out of the kitchen and see Ken examining a customer. 
Luckily there was a doctor in the house.  
*Aric* "What the hell happened?"
*Isolde* "Benjamin punched the guy and knocked him out."
*Aric* "What? Why in the hell would he do that?"
*Isolde* "Go ask him yourself. He is sitting over there."
Aric first checks on the customer and asks him if he is alright and that he is sorry about what happened.  Roxie talks to Ken. 
*Roxie* "He  okay?" 
*Ken* "He should be fine but I think he should still get checked out at the hospital.  Benjamin did knock him out cold. He could have a concussion."
*Roxie sighs* "Great...Leave it to Benjamin. He always find a way of getting himself into trouble."

*Ken* "I told him I would drive him to the hospital So he can get a full examination. He agreed. "*Roxie* "That is nice of you..."
*Aric stops her* "We need to go talk to Benjamin.."
*Roxie* "Okay.."

 *Aric looks very serious* "This guy wants to press charges Benjamin, for assault! He is threatening to call the cops. You knocked him out cold and for what? Just because he put his hands on your woman?...I thought you grew out of that sh*t by now."
*Benjamin doesn't have much to say* "I don't like the guy..."
*Aric getting upset with his friend* "Neither do I! But if I don't do what he asks then I'll be in trouble...Now I gotta call this in and report it. You better hope I can get in touch with Hayden since he is off duty. Maybe he can talk this guy out of it." 
*Benjamin acting like he doesn't care* "Just do what you gotta do Aric...."
Aric walks back over to the bar to make a few phone calls.

Michelle cannot believe he is acting like this is no big deal.
*Michelle* "Benjamin....are you not listening?  Andrew wants you arrested for assault. You really want to spend our New Year's Night in jail?"

*Benjamin* "I heard him..."

Sometime around 10:00pm...

Hayden shows back up at the bar with one of his fellow officers. They all step outside to talk.

  *Hayden* "Talk to me...."
*Benjamin* "He started it...by putting his hands on Michelle."
Andrew overhears them talking and speaks out.

*Andrew* "I want to press charges for assault. He is not going to get away with this...."
*Aric holds him back* "Don't you say a word Benjamin..."

 Hayden talks to the other officer and makes a final call. Ken makes plans to leave with Andrew and his friend to the hospital. The fellow officer also plans to go with them.
*Hayden* "I'm sorry man but it looks like you'll be spending New Year's Eve in jail. You know the drill...."
Benjamin sighs and puts his hands behind him while Hayden reads him his rights.

*Benjamin speaking to Aric* "Call my lawyer. You know what to do...."
*Aric* "You really think he is gonna answer?"
*Benjamin* "Yes.  And get Michelle I want to talk to her before I go."
*Aric* "Okay....You don't look the least bit worried. Why?"
*Benjamin* "Just go do what I asked and get Michelle."
*Aric* "Okay...okay..I'm going."
Seconds pass and Michelle is outside staring at Benjamin in handcuffs. 

*Hayden* "You got 5 minutes, Benjamin."
Hayden turns around and gives them some privacy and 
makes a phone call.

*Benjamin* "I'm sorry Darlin' for loosing my cool back there."
*Michelle* "It's okay....I just can't believe Andrew followed through with it." 
Benjamin leans in closer to her. He brushes his cheek against hers and whispers in her ear. 

*Benjamin* "I promise I'll make it up to you, Darlin'. I'm gonna do everything I can to be back to kiss you before midnight..."
*Michelle* "Don't be silly Benjamin. How do you expect to get out of this so soon?"

*Benjamin* "Just trust me Darlin'...."
He kisses her and then Hayden grabs him by the arm.
*Hayden* "Time to go Benjamin..."

 Michelle looks very worried and sad.
*Benjamin* "It'll be okay....I love you...."
*Michelle trying to hold back tears* "I know....I love you too."

And with that Hayden and Benjamin drive away.

To be continued......