We got up early
the next morning to fix coffee and get breakfast underway. It wasn’t
long before the men from the barn stomped into the house. Cowboy
boots make a lot of noise on wooden floors. The men clomping up
the wooden stairs to the back porch sounded like a stampede.
“Damn,— they
sound like a herd of buffalo what’s jes’ been spooked.”
Bubba said dryly. I laughed at him, he was like Gip in his
humor. He could be painfully funny at times. I guess that’s
probably why he and Gip got on so well together. Bubba and I were
the center of attention that morning. I can’t say we didn’t
expect it. It’s just the way cowboys are. Bubba and I
remained stoic; we already discussed and decided we weren’t going
to throw them any bones. Neither of us volunteered anything, but
there was much whispering and giggling behind our backs.
“J’all have a
good time last night?” Gip drawled cautiously, which caused much
snickering from the four younger men.
“Tolerable.”
Bubba tossed off as if it was no big deal. “Right tolerable,
Sheriff.” he added and grinned at Gip.
“Jes’ tolerable,
cowboy?” Gip addressed me with a wicked grin.
“I’d have ta’
agree with my bunkmate, Sheriff; however, for me, it was a bit more
than jes’ tolerable.” I smiled and winked at him. They all
caught my meaning and laughed. “I’d venture to say,— on a scale
of one to ten,— ole Bubba rang my chimes at about twelve plus,— fucked
me pert-damn good, too. I had to strap my belt around my butt to
keep my ass from fall’n off.”
I couldn’t help
but laugh after my statement of Bubba’s sexual powers. That broke
the dam for much laugher and hooting. After that nothing more was
said.
* * * * * * *
We spent the day
pretty much as Gip guessed we might. It became almost a full
blown rodeo. The local cowboys got wind of Bubba having the
sheriff and his boys from the next county as weekend guest, and the
word was there was to be an impromptu rodeo at the Swansey ranch.
Pickup trucks pulling horse trailers started arriving around nine in
the morning and continued until almost noon. I don’t think Bubba
counted on such a large crowd descending on his ranch, but he took
everything in stride.
Bubba and I
roped together a lot that day, and I have to believe what Master Waddie
told me about two men sharing something special were hard to beat at
roping. The nearest team to come close to Bubba and my times was
Gip and Waddie Buck. They were getting better all the time.
I was glad for them. I roped with everyone at least a couple of
times. I even roped with some of Bubba’s neighbors who were damn
good ropers themselves.
We broke around
noon to enjoy the tables of food the neighbors brought. Vince and
Seth Quee had also prepared several dishes they contributed to the
overall feast. Bubba lit his outdoor grill for anyone wanting hot
dogs or hamburgers. There was plenty of food for all. When
country folks get together they always bring lots of food.
One fine looking
older cowboy kept staring at me all morning like he was really
interested; in fact, he couldn’t take his eyes off of me. Bubba,
Gip and all the boys commented about it as we were having lunch.
I didn’t want to seem vain, but I asked if they got the same feelings I
was getting from him?
“You mean like
he’d like to shuck you like a ripe ear a’ corn?” Gip chuckled and
everyone else laughed with him.
“Uhhh,— yes,
Sir,— I guess.” I replied.
“You ain’t
imagining it, cowboy. Jes’ look at that ear a’ corn in his
Wranglers and the wet spot at his crotch.” More laughter from the
men.
Bubba knew the
man and told us his name was O.C. Harris. For many years,
O.C. lived with his family not far from Bubba’s ranch. He lived
his entire life in the community and went to school with Bubba and my
dad. Bubba said he grew up with him, my dad, my uncle and cousin
Rance. O.C. lost his wife to cancer several years ago, and his
children, two daughters, were grown and moved away. They only
came to visit him a couple of times a year.
“He was a close
friend of your uncle’s, Casey. He was really tight with your
uncle, dad, and cousin Rance. The five of us were always together
and yore’ uncle and him was best friends all through school.
They’d never admit it, but Vince and I knew they was fuck’n each
other. We caught ‘em in the barn one afternoon, but we didn’t say
nothing to ‘em. I think he seen yore’ eyes and has a thousand
questions running though his head. ”
Bubba said he
was a lonely man, but he didn’t know how to help him other than be a
good neighbor and friend. It seemed strange, because he never
made an effort to meet me; however, we were never together with someone
we both knew to introduce us. Country folks can be strange that
way. They believe you should be properly introduced to a man
before you talk with him; however, it’s all right for you to stare at
and wonder about him. I thought it might ease the man’s mind, and
he wouldn’t be so obsessed looking at me if we were to meet. I
asked Gip to introduce us. Gip met the man several times
before. As we walked towards O.C. Harris, he got a look of panic
on his face. I thought he was going to bolt and run.
“Good
Lord,” Gip spoke quietly to me, “I hope the man don’t have
a heart attack.”
“You noticed,
too, huh? Then I ain’t crazy.”
“Y’ain’t crazy,
Son. I seen cows in a thunderstorm what weren’t as spooked as
that man looks.”
We arrived where
Mr. Harris was standing. He couldn’t take his eyes off my eyes
and his face lost all its color. It was like he was mesmerized.
“Howdy, Mr.
Harris.” Gip stuck out his hand to shake O.C.’s hand. O.C.
took the sheriff’s hand and diverted his attention from me for a
moment. “Ain’t had a chance to come say ‘hello’ since you got here, but
I wanted you to meet my new hand I got working for me. This here,
young cowboy is Mister Casey Longhorn. Casey this gentleman is
Mister O.C. Harris.”
I stuck out my
hand, the man took it and slowly began to shake it as he once again
looked deeply into my eyes. His face lost all its color. He
looked like he’d seen a ghost.
“Pleased to meet
cha,’ Mr. Harris.” I told him.
“Good to meet
chu,' too, Son.” he paused for a moment like he was trying to
figure out what to say next, “Sheriff Claymore said yore’ name is
Longhorn. Is ‘zat right?”
“Yes, Sir, it
is.”
“Humm,— ”
He mused like he was confused. “Got any relatives around
here, Son?” he asked.
“Naw, Sir,— I
jes’ went to work for Sheriff Claymore this month, and I met Mr.
Swansey and his boys at the Chapel Creek rodeo several weekends ago.”
“I’m sorry I
been staring at chu,’ Casey. There was a young man who used to
live on this ranch before Bubba bought it from the boy’s dad.
Bubba named his youngest son after him. He and his daddy had eyes
the same color’s yours. His brother didn’t, but their cousin who
live on the next ranch over yonder a ways had ‘em. It’s got to be
more’n coincidence. ‘Sides,— I grew’d up with the boy, Seth Quee
Langtry. We was the same age and went all through school
together. I knew him well. We was best buds. We was
like brothers. You could be his double or identical twin.
Seth Quee, his brother Vince, their cousin Rance, Bubba and me was
together all the time.”
Unknown to me,
Bubba walked up behind me and was listening to the exchange. I
felt Bubba’s big arms surround me from behind and pull me back into him
to hold me close. He nuzzled me on my neck in a gesture of
affection.
“Best we tell
Mr. Harris the truth, Casey. H'it won’t do no harm, and it sure
would do him a world of good. He loved yore’ uncle like he was
his brother.” Bubba whispered to me. I nodded my head in
agreement. “Casey is Vince’s boy, O.C. Vince made it back
from Nam and changed his last name to Longhorn so’s old man Langtry
couldn’t find him. Casey’s come looking for his granddad.”
The poor man’s
eyes started watering. He kept shaking his head like it couldn’t
be true, and yet, the undeniable truth was standing right in front of
him.
“Oh, my
God!” he exclaimed, almost reverently. “All these years we
thought Vince was dead.”
I opened my arms
to the man, and he didn’t hesitate letting me hold him. That’s
all it took for his emotional dam to burst. We stood there
surrounded by loving men who understood his turmoil as he broke down
into uncontrollable sobs. I held him and comforted him as best I
could until he got himself together.
“I’m so glad
yore’ dad made it back alive, Casey. Have you met yore’
granddaddy, yet, Son?” he asked.
“Yes, Sir,— I
met him at the Chapel Creek rodeo. He came to the picnic at
Sheriff Claymore’s afterward. I was wearing my blue contact
lenses so he wouldn’t put two and two together like you done. I
let my beard and ‘stache grow to hide my facial features. I don’t
think he figured out nothing. I wanted a chance to be around him
to see for myself what kind of man he is. My daddy would shit
bricks if'n he knew I was anywheres near my granddad.”
“He has good
reason to feel that way, Casey. I don’t blame you a bit for being
cautious, but Curtis has changed. It didn’t jes’ happen
overnight, but he ain’t the man he used to be. Yore’ granddad’s a
different man today from what he was then. He done some wonderful
things for me and my family over the years. Do you think you’ll
ever tell him who you are?”
“Cain’t say, Mr.
Harris. He offered me a job work’n as a hand on the Lazy 8.
I accepted and start work in September for fall roundup. I wanna’
chance to be around him for a while before I decide whether I wanna’
tell him.”
“That’s
understandable, Son. I’ll be there, too. He always includes
me in the roundups. It helps me financially, and since I ain’t
got nobody to home no more, it gives me a chance to get out and be with
men I know and care about.”
“That’s great,
Mr. Harris,— then we’ll see each other again.”
“I got a
thousand questions, Son.”
“I understand,
Mr. Harris. I’ll do my best to answer 'em.”
We hugged again
and someone yelled,
“Let’s
rodeo! Cowboy up!”
Between times of
roping with someone, I would ride over to Mr. Harris and answer his
questions. He told me a lot of wonderful stories about my uncle,
my dad, Bubba, and Cousin Rance. I even got him to rope with me a
couple of times. He was a fine horseman and a pretty damn good
roper.
“I talked to
Rance a couple a’ times at rodeos where he was at managing Sticker
Wiggan’s rodeo stock company. I knew he’d been in prison, but he
didn’t have much to say about his life except to talk about the old
days when he lived around here. A man’s life is his own, and I
don’t hold it against him none we didn’t git to know each other a
little better.”
“He couldn’t,
Mr. Harris. My daddy done swore him to secrecy about him and his
family. Cousin Rance wouldn’t tell nobody where he lived.
He and my dad didn’t want my granddad look’n into things and finding
us. Did Cousin Rance tell you about his boy?”
“Rance has a
son? No, Casey, he didn’t.” Another tear fell from the poor
man’s face. I thought he might be feeling betrayed or left out.
“Don’t fell bad,
Mr. Harris, he didn’t tell Bubba, neither.”
“I don’t feel
bad, Son,— I’m jes’ s'damn happy for him. Is he a good boy,
Casey?”
“The best, Mr.
Harris. Looks jes’ like his daddy. His name is Dwayne, and
he’s the same age as me. Him and Mr. Wainright’s boy, Logan, are
my brothers,— like you was with my uncle.”
“My God in
heaven, you live in the same community as Sidney Wainright, and Sticker
Wiggins?”
“Yes, Sir, all
my life. My daddy done taught me to rope.”
“He can still
ride a horse after having his legs blown off?”
“Sure,— you’d
never realize he had store bought legs if’n you didn’t already
know. He gits around fine on ‘em things and rides his pony with
no problem. He’s my hero, Mr. Harris. I put my dad above
all other men.”
Mr. Harris
smiled at me, and another involuntary tear ran down his cheek.
“He should be
your hero, Son. To make it back after all he went through,— he is
a hero. I’m s’damn happy for you and Vince, Son. Many times
I wish’t I’d a' had a son, but God saw fit to gimme’ two wonderful
girls. Don’t see ‘em too much anymore, but I always enjoy their
visits when they come. I git to see my grand kids. One a’
my girls got three boys and the other’s got two. They each have a
little girl. I spoil ‘em kids rotten. They come stay with
me for a week or two ever’ summer. They’s jes’ here over the
Fourth of July. We had us a great time.”
“That’s great,
Mr. Harris.”
We talked some
more, and I told him about my uncle coming to me. He revealed to
me Uncle Seth had come to him several times over the years, but he
didn’t tell anybody for fear they’d think him crazy. I asked him
to pray for my uncle.
“I ain’t a
church go’n man, Son. I saw what organized religion could do to a
family with the Langtrys, so I mostly stayed away. I never said
nothing when my wife wanted to go and take the girls, but I wouldn’t
go. Oh, I would once in a while at Christmas or Easter for
appearance sake. Other'n that, I’ve pretty much steered clear of
church. Me and the good Lord’s got us an understanding. He
don’t bother me, and I don’t bother him. I doubt if my prayers
would be heard anyways. I ain’t prayed in years.”
“Trust me, Mr.
Harris, your prayer will be heard. If you ever loved my uncle, I
hope you’ll reconsider and ask God to forgive him and give him strength
to do what must be done. You don’t have to say nothing fancy,
jes’ talked to Him like you’re talk’n to me. He’ll hear
you. Your prayer jes’ might be the one what makes the difference.”
“Okay, Son,
since you seem so sincere and hell bent on help’n your uncle,— I
promise, I’ll try.” he said softly.
* * * * * * *
We rodeoed the
rest of the afternoon. Word must have gotten around town there
was a rodeo at the Swansey’s ranch. By late afternoon there were
thirty cars full of town folks who drove out to watch. It was a
great afternoon and everyone had a good time. Folks started
leaving about six in the evening, and by eight o’clock, everyone except
Mr. Harris was gone. Bubba invited him to stay and have supper
with us. He gratefully accepted. I’m glad he did. It
gave us a chance to talk some more.
The ladies who
brought the food left more than enough for us to have supper.
That’s the way country folks are. They think about the poor men
who don’t have a woman around to provide a good hot meal for them, so
they bring enough to see that they do. We were grateful as we
were tired and dirty. Of course, we washed up before
supper. Bubba asked Gip to say the blessing, and once again, he
prayed for my uncle. Mr. Harris was standing next to me, and I
felt him gently squeeze my hand.
There was much
hugging and a couple more tears saying goodbye to Mr. Harris.
Bubba invited him back for the following day. He told everyone
else he wasn’t having a rodeo on Sunday. He wanted to spend the
day with his family and guests. Mr. Harris’ face brightened, and
he accepted Bubba’s invitation. In front of all the other men,
Mr. Harris promised me he’d say a prayer for my uncle.
* * * * * * *
That evening we
sat around and talked. We were in the huge living area of the
house.
“I don’t think
O.C. wanted to go home.” said Bubba.
“I don’t
either.” said Gip, “After you told him who Casey was and
they talked, I don’t think he moved three feet away from our cowboy all
afternoon, ‘cept when he was rope’n.”
“I didn’t
mind. I liked him a lot. I’m glad ju’ invited him back
tomorrow, Bubba.” I told him.
“Me and the boys
is going to church tomorrow morning. You men are welcome to join
us or stay here ‘til we gits back.”
“Awh, Dad, do we
have to?” Whined Seth Quee.
“Yes, Son,— we
ain’t been in a coon’s age, and we got us a lot to be thankful
for. Won’t do you boys no harm. I promised yore’ momma on
her death bed I’d take you boys to church once in a while.”
“Wouldn’t do me
and my boys no harm, neither. We’ll go with ya.’ Ain’t
never been to the church here.” Added Gip.
“What about
chu,’ cowboy?” Bubba asked.
“I think I was
included in the Sheriff’s ‘boys,’ Sir.” I chuckled.
“Of course you
was. Don’t never have no doubt!” Claimed Gip.
“Oh, Lordy,— I
walked right into that one.” Bubba laughed. “I should a’
know’d Gip Claymore would toss his rope around ju’ and claim you as his
own. Cain’t say’s I blame him none. The way me’n the boys
feel, you’re welcome here anytime. Don’t bother to call,— jes’
come on.” Bubba said and Vince and Seth Quee confirmed.
“Thanks, Bubba,
I appreciate it. I know my dad would be grateful to you, Vince
and Seth. He’d be so proud to know you named them after him and
his brother. I hope, someday soon, we can tell him.”
“So do I,
Casey,— so do I.” said Bubba like a quiet prayer.
* * * * * * *
That evening
Bubba and I had a repeat of the previous evening. I don’t know
how, but the big man was even better than he was the night
before. When Bubba got his huge cowboy dick all the way up inside
my ass I was sure I got a glimpse of the pearly gates. I may not
have envisioned heaven or the promise land, but it sure came close to a
religious experience for me. That old cowboy fucked me nine ways
from Sunday and then threw in a few extra moves of his own invention
that had me begging for more. The sheriff was right. I
understood Gip’s candor completely. I found myself shamelessly
begging the big cowboy for just one more fuck.
Once again,
during the night, I felt a big hand grabbing hold of my plug.
Bubba popped it out of my ass into a waiting towel and quickly replaced
it with his big cock. Damn, he felt good, and I welcomed him by
meeting his first full thrush into me with an equal backward thrust
with my hips. He felt like he belonged in my ass, and for that
moment in time, he did. Gip was right, but so was my dad. I
couldn’t help but fall in love with the man. He was a good man, a
fine cowboy, and a superior fuck.
Bubba fucked me
with the strength of a seasoned cowboy, and the gentleness of a
saint. He fucked me so sweetly he brought tears to my eyes.
I turned my head back to him and felt his mouth cover mine in an
intimately passionate kiss. He didn’t stop his fucking. He
was enjoying my cowboy ass too much to even slow down. He was
ruthless in his steady fucking and knew it was having its desired
effect on me. He kept on an on until I could feel him growing
even bigger in my ass, and I knew he was almost ready to shoot his load.
We were still
engaged in a lengthy kiss when I felt his big ham of a hand rap around
my shaft and began to pump it as he emptied his hot cowboy come deep
into my ass. I was more than ready to shoot and shot so hard my
come splattered against the headboard of his bed.
We lay there
hooked together afterwards enjoying the glow of our mutual
climax. Being the gentleman cowboy Bubba was, he grabbed a clean
towel and handed it to me to clean my spunk off myself. He didn’t
seem to be in any hurry to remove his dick from my ass. He felt
so good I wasn’t about to suggest he do so. We made a little more
love and talked softly.
As we were
laying there, the same small blue light flew into the bedroom and
buzzed about our heads. Bubba and I chuckled at its seeming joy
at finding us hooked together in an intimate moment. It removed
itself from the bed area and began to grow larger. As it grew it
began to take human form. Bubba held me tight, and I could feel
his anticipation from his breathing.
When it was
fully formed it was clearly my Uncle Seth, but not as he had ever
visited me before. I could see him in his entirety. This
time he removed his helmet and was smiling down at Bubba and me.
Gone was his dour face, and he looked positively radiant.
“He must be
getting stronger.” Bubba whispered.
“Yeah,— I think
so.” I replied.
The spirit of
Uncle Seth came to the bed again and reached out his hand.
Without thinking I reached up and took it. We made a connection
and I could feel him flow into me. I could feel his soul
desperately trying to communicate with mine.
“Don’t try so
hard, Uncle,— I think you have the strength now to communicate with
us.” I said to him, quietly. “We love you and have everyone
praying for you. Do you believe me now?”
Seth nodded his
head he believed me and in our minds Bubba and I heard him say,
<< Yes,—
my beloved nephew, I believe you. >>
Bubba and I were
thrilled and I chuckled as I felt him move in my ass. I wondered
if us being hooked together had some effect on my uncle’s ease of
communication with us. Without asking he smiled.
<< Of
course, it does, nephew. It’s much easier for me to
communicate with both of you when you’re as close as you two have
become this weekend. Just like I shared a bit of my soul with
you, so have you shared your soul with that big cowboy. Lord
knows, he’s torn off a piece of my soul many times in the past.
>> We could see and hear him laughing.
I heard Bubba
sigh and chuckle under his breath. I knew he was privy to
everything Uncle Seth was saying.
“It’s so good to
finally meet you, to be able to tell you how much I love you, Uncle
Seth, and thank you for contributing to my being.”
<< If you
two could only know how much I love you. My heart has ached for
so long to tell you how I feel about you. I watched you grow up,
Casey, and I watched my beloved brother become a fine man and
father. I’ve watched you, Bubba, and tried to help when I
could. I love you and your boys without measure. >>
I felt a tear
drop on my shoulder. The big ox of a cowboy was really touched by
his little brother’s words.
“You gotta’ know
we love you, too, little brother. We always will. We’re
trying to help you and get chu’ to where you should be.”
<< I know
and I appreciate all your prayers and efforts. I’m beginning to
be less confused and see what must be done. I can’t stay too long
right now. I jes’ wanted to make contact and let you know your
efforts are paying off. I’m so grateful you haven’t forgotten
about me and love me enough to try’n help me. Give my best to
your boys, Bubba,— and, Casey,— remember me to Sheriff Claymore
and his boys. I love them, too. I’ll try to come to you
when I can. I know you’re gonna’ enjoy working for your
granddad. I know you’ll come to love him, Casey. He’s a
good man. He’s not the same man he was years ago. I love
him with all my heart. I’m growing weak, so I must go now.
I love you, both. >>
“We love you,
too, Uncle Seth.” I told him as he faded and was gone.
Bubba and I lay
there together not daring to breathe. I felt him wrap himself
around me and enfold me with his love like a giant snake. I
leaned back into him, turned my head to his and was rewarded with
another deeply passionate kiss.
“Other than Seth
Quee tell’n us where little Seth was that one night, that was about the
most amazing thing what’s ever happened to this old cowboy.” he
whispered to me.
“Me, too, big
brother.” I sighed deeply. “I think that calls for
something special,— don’t chu’ agree?” I asked mischievously.
“Couldn’t agree
more, little brother. Ya’ got one more left in ya’?”
“I got as many
as you wanna’ gimme,’ cowboy.” I laughed. “You think an old
man like you can fill me up again?”
“Oh, hell,— them
last two was jes’ warmups.” Bubba boasted. “Now we’uns can
get down to some serious fuck’n.” he roared with laughter,
“Hang on tight, buckaroo,— tight’n yore’ belly chinch,— yore’ cowboy’s
back in the saddle and he’s ready to ride.” We shared a laugh as
the big man proceeded to fuck the snot out of me one more time.
* * * * *
* *
We lay there
early the next morning in each others arms after having sucked each
other off. We were talking about many things, not the least of
which was the miraculous happenings of the night before. Bubba’s
clock radio was playing low in the background. Some cowboy was
singing a song about, “Ya’ got me scratch’n fleas and howl’n at the
moon.” I laughed at the thought.
“What chu’
laugh’n at, cowboy?” Bubba asked.
“‘At’s what chu’
be doing to me, big man,— make’n me wanna’ scratch fleas and howl at
the moon.” I laughed.
“Jes’ promise me
you won’t forgit about us. Don’t be no stranger, Casey,— you’re
always welcome here.”
“Damn,— now I
know what my old man meant. He told me you’d shamelessly steal my
heart and never give it back.”
“Yore’ old man
knows me pert-damn well, youngster. I cain’t gainsay that.
I’d keep you as close to my heart as I do them two boys a’ mine.
I gotta’ know how all this is gonna’ work out with your uncle and
granddad, but most of all, I need to know how it works out for you and
yore’ dad. Me’n the boys will git to see you for fall
roundup. We’ll be looking forward to it. I know O.C. will
be, too. Sometime the way he looks at chu’ makes me wonder.”
“Yeah, me
too.” I smiled at Bubba and winked.
* * * * * * *
At breakfast
that morning, Bubba and I revealed to the sheriff and the younger men
our brief encounter with the spirit of my uncle. They were just
as wowed and encouraged as we were. Gip said another prayer for
him at breakfast. About half way through breakfast O.C. joined
us, and didn’t seem to be surprised at the news. I was beginning
to think he knew more than he was letting on. I was surprised
when O.C. announced he would be joining us to go to church.
We all went to
the small church together. It was a small clapboard building with
wooden pews. The Sunday morning service was Methodist, but the
Baptist would have their services in the evening. The following
Sunday it would be reversed. I found it amusing the two beliefs
used the same house of worship but couldn’t come together for their
services. I don’t think that’s what Jesus had in mind.
I think that’s
what I always loved about being a cowboy. Cowboys don’t bother
with what church you go to or the details of your theology. It’s
enough for them if you believe and know when to be reverent about
it. I rarely found a cowboy who claims he actually prays,— but
they all admit they talk with God from time to time.
It was such a
small congregation, we were more than half the folks there.
The preacher was especially pleased Bubba and his boys attended, but he
was particularly pleased the sheriff of the adjacent county was there
with his three sons. Bubba grinned wickedly at me as Gip referred
to little Gip, Waddie Buck and me as his boys. Bubba didn’t say
anything though. Neither did O.C. who didn’t miss Gip’s
introduction. Gip didn’t lie. He didn’t say we were his
sons, and by that time, I certainly considered myself as one of his
boys. I would’ve been proud to think of Gip as my dad. Come
to think on it, I would’ve been proud to have been the son of any one
of the three older men sitting there.
The last hymn we
sang before the service was over brought tears to my eyes. Bubba
must have understood because I felt his huge arm slip around my waste
and hold me to him tightly as he shared the hymnal with me. It
reminded me of the one man whom I was very proud of to be my dad, my
own father, Vincent Longhorn. The hymn was “How Firm A
Foundation.” It made me think of how firm a foundation my dad
gave me in rasing me to understand not only how to love, but the
meaning of love as well. It never ceases to amaze me how some of
life’s most meaningful lessons come to you completely from out of left
field, from a totally different source or perspective than you might
otherwise have considered. This was one of those times. I
must have been gaining as much from trying to help my uncle as he
was. My perspective about things was beginning to become more
clear.
* * * * * * *
Everyone pitched
in to make Sunday dinner. You’d think a bunch of cowboys in a
kitchen would be a disaster; however, it was quite the contrary.
Every man was assigned a job and Bubba was in charge of seeing
everything came together at the right time. The two youngest men
stood at the sink and cleaned as we went. As a result, there
wasn’t a lot of clean up afterward and we had a great meal of fried
chicken with all the fixings.
After dinner we
saddled the ponies and rodeoed for a while; however, Bubba called a
halt to the cowboying early so we could rub the ponies down, feed and
water them and let the rest before we had to put them into the trailer
for the trip home. We spent the rest of the afternoon in the
shade of a big tree drinking lemonade and talking. It was a
wonderful afternoon, and I got to know O.C. Harris better.
“So, you’re
gonna’ go to work for the Lazy 8 and your granddad, the first of
September, is it, Casey?”
“Yes, Sir, Mr.
Harris.”
“Hope you get
back down this way before you do.” he commented.
“Yeah,— what
about that, cowboy?” Bubba added. “We’d love to have you
back down again or all of you for that matter.” I was flattered,
but didn’t know quite what to say. I had obligations to the
sheriff and his family. I didn’t want to seem like I was taking
them for granted.
“I’d like that,
gentlemen; however, I have to consider what projects Sheriff Claymore
might have in mind. I might not be able to get away.”
“I don’t see any
problem with you coming back for another weekend, Casey.” Gip
spoke up. “I don’t think me and the boys is gonna’ be able to
come with you, but you should have a free weekend before you leave for
the Lazy 8. Besides, we’re gonna’ see quite a bit of Bubba,
Vince, Seth and Mr. Harris at the fall roundup. We’ll be there,
too, starting the third week in September,— is that right, Mr. Harris?”
“Yes, Sir,
Sheriff, the fifteenth of September. Got it on my calendar at
home.”
“Yeah,— ‘at’s
right.” added Vince.
“Well, — I won’t
make any promises, but I’ll try.” I told them.
“Wouldn’t hurt
chu’ men none to drive up and visit us, ya’ know?” Gip chided
Bubba and Mr. Harris. “Ya’ll are always welcome,— anytime.”
he added.
“We’uns jes’
might take you up on that, Sheriff. Right, O.C.?” Bubba
deferred to Mr. Harris.
“If’n I kin git
my daughter and son-in-law to look after my place for a couple of days.”
“Well, we can
work out the details later. We’re jes’ so glad you come to visit
this weekend and hope you come again real soon. It’s always a
pleasure to have you and the boys down, Gip. Ya’ll know how we
feel about chu’ men.”
“Feel’n’s
mutual, brother. You know that.” replied Gip softly.
* * * * * * *
Country folks
get ready to leave and spend two hours saying goodbye. It’s like
they jes’ don’t really want to part company so there’s always one more
thing to say, or one more story to tell. By the time we got on
the road back to Chapel Creek, it was late in the afternoon. I
took first rotation driving and my time seemed to fly by. Since
we left later in the evening, it wasn’t so uncomfortably hot for the
ponies, and we didn’t have to stop as often. We actually made
better time on the return trip; however, I don’t think I believe Gip’s
simple explanation, Chapel Creek was downhill from Bubba’s. I’ve
been around enough cowboys I know when I’m having smoke blown up my
butt. Nevertheless, the sheriff got a good laugh out of little
Gip, Waddie Buck and me.
At first we
talked a lot but after I turned the driving over to little Gip I got in
the crew seat with Waddie Buck and leaned up against the side of the
truck. Before I knew it I was drifting off to sleep. Just before
my lights went out I had a warm feeling come over me. I thought
about Master Waddie and Titus and wondered how they were doing. I
thought about how wonderful it would be to share in their bonding and
to know what was going on with them. A small voice in the back of
my mind spoke to me.
<< That’s
easy enough, if’n you really want to know. I could ask Master
Waddie’s permission. >>
I recognized my
big bear buddy from Tucson in my mind and smiled to myself.
<< I
really appreciate it, big man; however, I think some things are best
left to the privacy of others. I don’t know’s I’d want a lot of
folks know’n ever’ intimate detail of my personal life. I’m
certainly not ashamed of the love I’ve shared with any of the men I’ve
been with, but the better part of that love was because it was only
between me and them. >> I spoke to him in my mind.
<< The Old
Man told me you’d react that way; said ju’ was grow’n up and learning
to respect others in a new way. He’s proud of you and so am
I. He told me to tell you again, you’re on the right path.
>>
<< Thanks,
bear man. I appreciate you checking in on me, and thanks for the
offer. I’m going to dream about Master Waddie and Titus.
Maybe they’ll get my good wishes. >>
<< I’m
sure they will, Casey. Sleep well and remember,— you kin always
dream a’ me, too, if’n ya’on’t to. >>
<< I’d
like nothing better, Griz. >>
I heard the big
man chuckle as he faded away; however, I could still feel the warm glow
of his aura surrounding me. My dick suddenly got roaring hard,
and once again, I was drifting off to the land of nod.
* * * * * * *
Suddenly I was
in a strange motel room that had two big beds in it. It wasn’t
fancy but it was comfortable. I could see everything and move
around, but I couldn’t see me in a mirror when I looked. This was
weird. I walked to the small desk every motel has and there was a
small pamphlet on the desk with a picture of the motel and the name
written underneath. “Bayou Motel ~ Baton Rouge, Louisiana.”
Why was I dreaming about a motel in Baton Rouge? I began to
ponder my question when I heard the sound of motorcycles pulling up to
the room I was in. I almost panicked until I realized they
couldn’t see me. I heard someone insert a key into the lock and
open the door. There stood Master Waddie followed close behind by
my good friend Titus.
<< Griz!
>> I sent out a thought, << I told ju’ I didn’t wanna’
intrude on Master Waddie and Titus. >>
<< Ain’t
me what’s doing it, little brother. Ain’t yore’ little brother,
neither. >>
<< You
mean, — ? >>
<< Yep,—
you done graduated, Son. >> I heard the sound of two people
laughing in my mind; Griz and little bit.
<< We
wondered when you’d make yore’ first venture. >> I heard little
bit say.
<< But,
why? Griz offered and I turned him down. >>
<< Your
first time out has to be connected to someone you’re very close to. I
got a suspicion yore’ Uncle Seth might be help’n you a little, too.
>> Griz offered.
<< I feel
like such a pervert; like I’m a peep’n tom. >> I laughed.
<< So,—
what else is new? >> shot back my imp of a little
brother. He and Griz roared with laugher. << You can
always pull back. I’m sure Griz will be happy to take care of
you. >>
<< You’re
welcome to come to me any time, cowboy. >> I heard Griz
confirm.
<< Well,—
now that I’m here,— I would like to hear a little news about them.
>>
I heard another
roar of rude laughter and giggles in my mind. They were really
enjoying my conundrum.
<< We’s
jes’ josh’n with ya,’ cowboy. We’ll leave you be. Follow
your heart. If’n you wanna’ tip from your bear man,— jes’
remember how much yore’ Master loves you. >>
<< Thanks,
Griz. You, too, little brother. >>
Once again I
heard them laughing together as they faded from my mind.
* * * * * * *
“S’not
bad! S’not bad a’tall.” allowed Master Waddie as he
stompped around in the room in his tall black motorcycle boots and
leathers. Damnation,— I’d forgotten how hot he looked in his
leathers. My dick wasn’t only roaring hard,— it was dripping in
my Wranglers.
“Reasonable
enough. Certainly the price is right. I cain’t believe they
ain’t charging us nothing for the night’s stay. Who owns this
place?” Titus asked Waddie.
“As I understand
it,— the owner’s a good friend of Beau’s. Big Jim told me Beau
gave the man a hand when he was down and out and helped him buy this
motel many years ago. He repaid Beau back a long time ago, but
he’s remained close to Beau and Big Jim for years. He’s a brother
and biker. Big Jim says he has a string of these motels
throughout Louisiana; said he’s worth a fortune today, but he’s still
down to earth and don’t forgit his brothers.”
“For the price I
guess you and I could’ve had separate rooms.” Titus grinned
looking at Waddie.
“I’ll ask him if
that’ud be yore’ druthers.” Waddie retorted.
“No,— no,—
h’it’s all right. I don’t mind bunk’n it in with you,— if’n you
don’t mind bunk’n it in with me.” Titus shot back like he was
asking a question.
“And miss you
parading around in the raw with them bun’s of death a’ yores? I
think not, pilgrim.” Master Waddie grinned wickedly at Titus and
chuckled.
I couldn’t help
myself and fell across the bed laughing at Master Waddie’s comment.
“T’weren’t
me!” Titus shrugged, “But, yeah, I heard it,— like it was
in another room.”
“It was almost
like I recognized that laugh, like I know who it belongs to.”
“Who’d ‘at
be?” asked Titus.
“I know it’s
crazy, but it sounded like Casey’s laugh.”
Titus shrugged
his shoulders like he wasn’t sure. I stiffened and stayed very
still. Could Master Waddie and Titus actually hear me? I
had to be more careful. I wondered if I should touch Master
Waddie’s mind. I knew I could. I now knew how to do it,— I
had it done to me so many times. I decided to see if I could put
an idea into Master Waddie’s head.
“Didn’t I see a
liquor store a couple a’ doors down from the motel when we pulled
in?” he asked Titus.
“I think so,—
yes, Sir,— I saw it, too.”
“Be back in a
minute.” was all Master Waddie said as he headed for the
door. He headed for his Harley, but I put another suggestion in
his mind.
<< Hell,—
it’s a beautiful evening. H’it ain’t that far. May as well
walk. Do you good after being on that vibrate’n beast all day.
>>
‘I could a’
sworn it was my little cowboy-slave’s laughter I heard.’ he
thought to himself as he was walking to the front of the motel.
<< It was,
Master. >>
“What?
Casey? Where the hell are you?” Master Waddie asked as he
turned to look around.
<< Talk’n
to you in yore’ head, my beloved Master. >>
<< You got
the same gift as Griz and yore’ little brother? >> he
asked.
<<
Apparently so, Master. I didn’t discover it until jes’ a few
minutes ago. I’s about to go to sleep and got to think’n on you and Mr.
Titus; about how much I’d love to be a fly on the wall and see if you’s
bonded yet. >>
<< Well,
we ain’t yet, but I plan to talk with him about it this evening.
You’s the one what gimme’ the idea of gettin’ some’um to drink,—
didn’t chu, cowboy? >>
<< Yes,
Sir,— that, and git’n you to walk to the liquor store so’s I could ask
your permission to share. I won’t do nothing. I jes’ wanna’
be a part of your bonding, Master;— like, I was part of you take’n on
my slave brother. After all, it was you what told me a part of me
would always be yore’ slave, and I believe you. I know I’ll
always will be a part of you and Titus. >> << Of
course you will, my handsome, slave-boy. S’far as I’m concerned,—
I’m thrilled by the prospects of you being a part of our bonding.
You have ever’ right to be; however, Titus ain’t my slave, yet.
We have to respect his feelings and wishes. Somehow, I don’t
think it’s gonna’ be a problem. He’s talked about little else but
you lately when we’ve been alone. He really admires and love
you. He knows how much I’ve missed you. >>
<< I
understand, Master. If’n he wouldn’t be comfortable, I’ll
withdraw. I’ll go away. You’re still my Master, and I’ll
always obey you. >>
<< Stop
that, salve! That’s an order. You’re gonna’ have this old
cowboy bawling his guts out, and we’re almost to the damn liquor
store. You want them folks to think I’s looney as a bed bug?
>> I heard him laugh to himself.
<< Naw,
Sir, Master Waddie. I’ll leave you be for now. >>
<< You
better not. I need yore’ help. What da’ ya’ think Titus ‘ud
like ta’ drink? >>
<< Ya’ont
me to check, Sir? >> I giggled.
<< Damn,—
I could git use to this kind a’ slave service, Son. >> he
was laughing out loud as he walked through the door of the liquor
store. The clerk behind the counter was an attractive, dark,
olive skined, Cajun looking young man of about twenty-five. He
looked at the big man laughing like he was a bit daft; however, the
poor man almost broke his neck from the double-take he did looking at
Master Waddie in all his leathers. <<
Mr. Titus’ preferred drink is Southern Comfort, Master Waddie.
>> I told him.
<< I knew
the man has good taste, cowboy,— ‘at’s one of my favorites, too.
>> Master Waddie laughed again out loud as asked the clerk
for a bottle.
“A buddy jes’
told me one hell of a joke and I’m still laughing about it.” He
explained his laughter to the clerk.
The man smiled,
shook his head like he understood and retrieved the bottle for
him. Master Waddie paid him and thanked him. All the time
the young man behind the counter kept looking Master Waddie up and
down. He didn’t want to be obvious, but he just couldn’t take his
eyes off of the bulge in Master Waddie’s cod piece. I could see a
smile come across Master Waddie’s face as he let the young man know he
recognized his lust.
<< Y’ain’t
gotta’ be no mind reader to hear his thoughts loud and clear,— eh,
young’un? >> he tossed off in my direction. It was
all I could do to keep from falling on the floor in laughter.
“You jes’ ride
into the motel next door with all them other bikers, Sir?” The nervous
young man asked Master Waddie in a decidedly Southern Cajun accent.
“Yeah, Son, I
did. Me and my biker family is on our way to Key West, Florida
and stopped by to say ‘hello’ to the owner who’s a good friend of two
of our members.”
“Mr.
Kingston. Yeah, he told me one time he used to be a biker;— said
he still has his bike.”
“Yeah, ‘at’s
him. Good man, Bill Kingston.”
“I git off in a
couple of hours, Sir. Ya’ont some company to share that bottle
with?” The young man asked with a decidedly lascivious grin on
his face. There was no doubting his intent or meaning. I
couldn’t help it, I broke up laughing.
<< Hesh
up, cowboy! >> I heard my Master laughingly scold me.
“I do so
appreciate yore’ kind offer, Son; however, I be sharing a room with one
a’ my buddies. We been bunk’n it in together on this run to share
expenses.”
“I’d be happy to
take care a’ both a’ ya,’ Sir.” The young man offered in
desperation.
This time,
Master Waddie almost lost it. I was still laughing my ass off.
<< If’n
you don’t stop that, cowboy, I’m gonna’ turn you over my knee! >>
<< Ya’
promise! >> I blurted out through my laughter. To my
Master’s dismay, it only inflamed me more.
“I know I’d
enjoy it, Son, but my buddy’s a pretty straight laced, uptight kind a’
man. In a week or so,— when we come back through,— I’ll get a
room by myself and if’n you’re still here,— and you still wanna’ share
a little Southern comfort with me,— I’d be obliged.”
Southern
comfort, indeed! What an awful pun. Master Waddie could
be funny sometimes without really trying to be. The poor
young man looked like he’d just watched his puppy die. I was
laughing my ass off as Master Waddie turned and walked to the door.
“I’ll be look’n
for ya,’ Sir.” he called out to Master Waddie.
We were finally
outside and Master Waddie let it all out. He laughed his ass off
and so did I.
<< I told
ju’ before,— I cain’t take you nowheres, Master! >> I
chided him.
<< Oh,
fuck,— you’re right! See what you git me into, slave-boy. I
done told ju’ what them damn pheromones do to a man in love!
Ain’t laughed like that since you and me was rodeoing together.
Now, youngster,— on the way back ya’ gotta’ tell me all you’ve been up
to. My boy been treat’n you right? Ole Bubba nail
yore’ sweet, young, cowboy butt to his bunkhouse wall, yet?
>> He laughed and I laughed with him
<< All
that and more, Master Waddie. >> I told him of all the
wonderful things that happened to me since I last saw him. I told
him about my uncle coming to me. He was astounded, but Master
Waddie, above all others, believed me. I told him about our brief
conversation and our trip to Bubba’s ranch.
<< I’m in
the sheriff’s truck right now pretending to be asleep. We’re
returning from our weekend at Bubba’s ranch. I’m afraid I fell in
love again, Master Waddie, not only with the sheriff and his boys but
Bubba and his boys, too. >>
<< Ain’t
no harm in ‘nat, cowboy. Love’s what makes the world go
‘round. It’s what separates the men from the boys. It ain’t
how tough you is,— it’s how well you kin love your fellow man and learn
to forgive him his foolishness. >>
<< Y’ain’t
gotta’ defend yore’ actions to me, cowboy. You kin love as many
men as you like, but — chore’ only gonna’ have one Master.
>> he chuckled at his truism.
<< I only
want one Master, Sir. >>
<<
Someday, I’m a’ hope’n I kin give you to your old man as his slave, but
a part of you will always remain my slave, Son, jes’ like, a part of
you will always remain yore’ old man’s little boy. >>
<< I
wouldn’t want it any other way, Master. >> I told him
sincerely.
By that time we
were back to the motel room. We entered and there stood Mr. Titus
buck ass naked holding a towel. He took advantage of Master
Waddie’s time away and was just coming out of the bath. I’d only
seen Mr. Titus in the raw a couple of times at the Broken Arrow, but
what I saw standing before us was one of the most handsome older men I
ever saw. I couldn’t help but let out a long, low whistle.
From the look on his face I suddenly realized Mr. Titus heard it.
He looked a bit puzzled, but he took a chance anyway.
“Why,— thank
you, kind Sir. Glad to know I still rate a positive response in
another man’s eyes.”
“T’weren’t me
what whistled, Son.” laughed Master Waddie, “however, I
share the cowboy’s sentiments what did whistle at chu.’”
“And,— who might
that be, Sir?”
“The same man
you heard laughing at me earlier. He was in the room with us.”
“Casey?
You mean,— ?”
“Yep,— jes’
discovered he has the same gift as Griz and his little brother.
He wanted to check us out and wish us well. You obviously can
hear him, too. Told me he checked and yore’ favorite drink is
Southern Comfort.” Master Waddie handed Titus the paper bag which
contained the liquor. A big grin spread across Titus’ face.
“You really
here, cowboy?” Titus spoke out loud.
<< Yes,
Sir, Mr. Titus. >>
“Damned if he
ain’t! I’ve only had this happen one other time when Griz came to
me several times after I lost Button. He was a great
comfort. I’ll always be grateful to him for that.”
“Go ahead on,
cowboy,— ask him what chu’ done asked me.” Master Waddie spoke.
“In the meantime,— I’ll have two fingers of Comfort, if you please,
Sir.” He said to Titus motioning for him to carry the bag to the
bathroom. Titus dutifully took the bottle to the bathroom to get
some glasses.
<< Would
ju’ mind if’n I hang around for a while, Mr. Titus? >> I
asked him.
<< Can
Master Waddie hear my thoughts with you, Casey? >>
<< Naw,
Sir. I can let chu’ hear me or both. It’s up to me.
Right now, he can’t hear nothing we’s say’n to each other. >>
<< I’d be
proud for you to hang around for a while, little brother. I have
a feeling Master Waddie’s in an amorous mood. It’s been a while
since we left Chapel Creek, and he’s been missing you a lot. I
can tell he’s been doing a lot a’ cogitate’n about me the last couple
of days. He ain’t let me git more’n three feet away from him
since we left. I think tonight may be the night. >>
<< I’m
sure you’re right, Sir. I asked his permission and he said he had
to take you into consideration. I appreciate that. ‘At’s
why I’s asking, Mr. Titus. I told him I jes’ wanna’ be a small
part of your bonding. >>
<< I think
you should be. If’n it weren’t for you, this evening might not be
taking place. Sure,— you can hang around. I’d be pleased
for you to. After all, you’re gonna’ be my little slave-brother,
ain’t cha’? >>
<< With
all my heart, Sir,— and with all my love. >>
<< Good
enough for me, cowboy. Stick around and let’s us see what that
old cowboy comes up with. >>
Titus returned
to the bedroom area and handed Master Waddie his drink. Master
Waddie patted the bed for him to sit beside him. They clinked
glasses and each took a sip of the Comfort. Master Waddie sucked
in air through his teeth and grimaced.
“Smoooth!”
he choked out. Titus laughed at him, and so did I.
“I told my
cowboy slave-brother I didn’t mind if’n he wanted to stick around for a
while, Sir.”
“Good! I
had a feel’n you wouldn’t have no problem with it. I told him I
didn’t mind, but we had to take your druthers into consideration.”
“I’m glad he’s
here. It jes’ seems right, somehow.”
There was a long
silence between them, but I decided to stay in the background.
After all, I was there to share and experience, not to impose my
personality on their bonding.
“As you well
know, T.,— I ain’t a man what beats around the bush, unless, of course,
a slave requests it.” Master Waddie added wickedly then fell back
on the bed laughing enjoying his own joke. Titus, being a man of
great patience, just grinned real big at his nonsense. Master
Waddie sat back up and took another pull of Comfort.
“I guess it
ain’t no secret between us, yore’ cowboy slave-brother brought me
around to think’n differently ‘bout some things. We both suffered
some pretty bad losses. I lost Zane, and less than six months
later you lost Button. I went into depression and probably
would’ve died if’n you and our family hadn’t roped, hog tied me,
throw’d me in the back of yore’ truck and hauled my ass to the V. A.
hospital.
Even though you
lost Button and were probably in as much pain as I was you were always
right there for me. You never left my side. I began to take
you for granted. I never could understand how you could be
adjusting better’n me. It was only recently, with Casey’s help, I
come to understand,— you were giving of yourself, and that’s the only
way we recover from great loss.
After Button
died, you never expressed a need or preference since you were first a
slave and then Button’s Master for fifteen years. No one in
our family seemed to want to press you one way or the other. It
was the right thing to do, not to press you. We never discussed
each others loss or how the future might effect us, so over the last
few years, I just assumed you were satisfied with the status quo.
I certainly never reckoned you might ever have a hanker’n to pay homage
to this butt-ugly, old, cowpoke’s boots. It never occurred to me
until our young cowboy hit me upside the head with the idea,— you jes’
might. Was he right, Titus?”
Titus clinked
his glass against Master Waddie’s and motioned for him to drink up as
he tossed his handsome head back and slammed down the last of his
Comfort. He took Master Waddie’s glass and headed to the bathroom
to pour them another two fingers. He returned, handed Master
Waddie his glass, sat beside him, clinked his glass with Master
Waddie’s, took another stout pull of Comfort, and sighed deeply.
“I never
expressed a preference because I didn’t have to. In a way, I
already found my Master, and I was doing my best to serve him. I
was satisfied taking care of you and trying to be there for you when
you needed me. It didn’t matter to me none we weren’t sharing a
bed. It would’ve never mattered to me because there was only one
man I was interested in serving,— sex or no sex. You never
reached out to me that way, so I assumed, because of your deep loss and
sadness, you lost interest in sex or any kind of relationship beyond
friendship. Thank God Casey came along when he did. I think
you’d pretty much given up on life and were jes’ going through the
motions. Hope you’re listen’n, cowboy,— !” Titus said
addressing me. I didn’t respond, “Yes, Master Waddie, our
cowboy was right. Hit’s true and it has been for sometime. ”
There was
another silence between them as they sipped their drink. Titus
continued.
“My question for
you is,— would you consider taking me for your slave?” It was Master
Waddie’s turn to motion for Titus to drink up. They once again
clinked glasses and tossed back the rest of their Comfort. Master
Waddie took Titus’ glass and set them on the small desk in front of the
beds. He sat back down and took Titus in his big arms, looked
deeply into his eyes, and gently kissed him. It turned into more
than just a gentle kiss. It became quite passionate. I
couldn’t help myself, I started bawling like a damn baby. It was
one of the most moving things I ever witnessed, and it was between two
men I loved and cared about. At that moment, I think I understood
what a mother might feel watching her baby girl being given to a man at
a wedding. They broke off their kiss and began laughing.
“Would ju’
please— ?” Master Waddie chided me. “A mother at the
wedding of her daughter?” I didn’t count on him hearing that
part. Titus broke up in laughter, so did our Master.
<< I’m
sorry, Master. I’m sorry, Mr. Titus. I jes’ couldn’t help
myself. I’m so happy for you. >>
“You’re
forgiven, cowboy; however, if’n this man claims he wants me to take him
for my slave,— he must realize,— I wouldn’t buy a pair a’ boots without
try’n ‘em on first. I think if he wants to be my slave, he should
show his Master a little homage,— don’t chu,’ cowboy?”
I laughed at
Master Waddie’s way of asking Titus to pay homage to his boots.
<< A good
slave always agrees with his Master, Sir. I only wish I was there
to share one of your boots with my slave-bother. >>
“If’n you’re
gonna’ be my slave-brother, I think it’s time you dropped the ‘Mister’
from my name. You don’t call your brother, ‘Mister.’” Titus
chastised me.
<< Yes,
Sir,— I appreciate that. Jes’ try’n to show my respect, brother.
>>
They both
laughed at me. “And so you have, Son.” Master Waddie
allowed.
As Titus knelt
in front of Master Waddie and began to pay homage to him, I bid
them a fond farewell, and took my leave. I left them to their
further bonding. The better part of discretion is knowing when to
take your leave. Besides, I was about to come in my Wranglers
watching my handsome slave-brother make love to our Master’s boots.
* * * * * * *
“Must a’ been
one hell of a dream, cowboy. You’s laugh’n, crying and carry’n
on. I didn’t wanna’ wake you ‘cause you seemed to be having a
good time. You weren’t yell’n or nothing.” said the sheriff
as I came around from my trip to Baton Rouge. I was unaware
they’d changed drivers and Waddie Buck was now driving. Gip
got into the back with me. I smiled at him.
“Don’t asked me
how I know, but yore’ daddy and Titus bonded this evening.”
“I don’t have to
ask.” said Gip grinning at me. “I’ve suspected all along
you had talents y’ain’t never discovered yet. I think this
weekend and communicating with yore’ uncle has opened some new doors
for you.”
“You’re right,
Sir. I’m still a little shaken by it all.” “Aww, you’ll
cope with it jes’ like you do ever’ thing, cowboy. You’ll take it
in stride. Ain’t nothing you cain’t handle.”
Gip grabbed me
and pulled me to him to hold me close. It seemed like the most
natural thing in the world for him to do at that moment, and I melted
into his big arms. I’d met some truly remarkable folks in my
sojourn into the world by myself. Folks who were good hearted and
knew how to give and receive love. Strong people of the Earth who
believe in the innate goodness of their fellow man.
End Chapter 34 ~
Texas Longhorns Copyright 2005 ~
Waddie Greywolf All rights
reserved ~ Mail to:
waddiebear@yahoo.com