Contents
3. Luke
Overview
Luke Brooks spots Emmy Ryder at The Devil’s Boot and is blindsided by unwanted attraction. Jealous of Kenny Wyatt’s attention, Luke cues a teasing song to separate them and confronts Emmy. Their collision and argument reveal Luke now owns the bar and feels possessively protective, setting up future friction and chemistry.
Summary
Luke Brooks notices Clementine “Emmy” Ryder enter The Devil’s Boot and is surprised by a surge of attraction, despite reminding himself she’s his best friend Gus’s younger sister and therefore off-limits. He heads to his office for bar change—and a bracing shot—while trying not to stare. He spots Teddy Andersen at the bar and realizes Emmy’s appearance was unannounced, with Gus away in Idaho.
Back on the floor, Luke sees Kenny Wyatt flirting with Emmy. Resenting Kenny’s history with her, Luke cues the band to play a song that he knows needles Emmy. The music jolts her attention and breaks Kenny’s hold without Luke confronting them directly.
Emmy storms off, collides with Luke, and he steadies her. They trade barbs—Emmy furious at his interference and the song, Luke claiming he was “rescuing” her from Kenny. Their argument escalates as Luke asserts both his protective tie to the Ryder family and his authority as the bar’s owner, which Emmy initially doubts. Luke ends the exchange by warning Emmy to keep Kenny’s hands off her or he will throw them both out, underscoring his jealousy and control.
Who Appears
- Luke BrooksBar owner and Gus’s best friend; unexpectedly attracted to Emmy, jealous of Kenny, triggers a song, confronts and warns Emmy.
- Clementine “Emmy” RyderReturns to The Devil’s Boot; reacts to Luke’s teasing song, collides with him, argues his authority and rejects his meddling.
- Kenny WyattFlirts with Emmy at the bar; his touch sparks Luke’s jealousy and prompts Luke’s interference.
- Teddy AndersenEmmy’s outspoken friend; arrives with her and clocks Luke’s attention, indirectly signaling Emmy’s impact.
- JoeBartender who calls Luke for change, highlighting Luke’s role managing the bar.