Cabbage Patch Cowboy
By Waddie Greywolf

Chapter 10

It was a long trip and Linda Sue was tired when Buck pulled the Ford onto the gravel road that led up to their old farm house on the outskirts of town. It was still cold for May, so Buck had the heater on in the car. She'd been quiet for the last thirty miles or so coming back from Temple, Texas.  Buck took off several days to drive her to see the two doctors  Dr. Dyer recommended. With stops for food and rest it was a good six hour trip by car. Linda Sue couldn't remember a time in her life when she felt so bad or alone. Even Buck's love couldn't touch the loneliness she felt. Buck could tell. He knew. He'd fallen more and more in love with his chosen partner for life. He felt and shared her despair. He helped her into the house and returned to get their two bags out of the trunk. They stayed three days with a cousin of Linda Sue's, her husband and two children, on their ranch outside of Salado, Texas.

They were gracious to Linda Sue and Buck and took them to dinner one night to an old stagecoach stop on the route from Dallas to Austin. The “Stagecoach Inn” had been in business for many years, and the old inn was still kept up for visitors. The food was first rate. They were famous for their banana fritters. Buck thought they were wonderful.  It was only a twelve mile drive to the small clinic in Temple, and the two doctors spent three days running all sorts of test on Mrs. Claymore. They called back to confer with Dr. Dyer and his findings. They were gracious enough to keep quiet about Mrs. Claymore's previous birth as Dr. Dyer told them she hadn't decided whether to tell her husband or not.

They talked to her alone first and assured her what happened to keep her from having another child was in no way connected to her giving birth to the first baby. They urged her to tell her husband and start an immediate search for the child. She would have to make that decision on her own. She told no one. Only Aunt Agatha, her daughters and Dr. Dyer knew.

The doctors then called her husband in to tell him.  Linda Sue saw Buck's face when the doctors explained the situation to them together. They were sorry but there was nothing they could do. They suggested Buck and Linda Sue might consider adoption.  Linda Sue glanced out of the corner of her eye to see one tear roll down her husband's cheek. Buck was not an emotional man, but he wasn't afraid to show his emotions if he felt like it. He pulled out his handkerchief, quickly wiped the tear away, and collected himself.

That one tear shouted more to her than if he had broken down into heavy sobbing. Somehow the strength of character her husband was showing for her, took control, but for one split second he was so devastated one, involuntary tear, escaped. It spoke volumes to her. They didn't discuss the doctor's findings on the way back, and Buck tried to keep the mood light with obvious concern for her. He was waiting for her to come to him with her sorrow. He would be the man whom she needed and wouldn't consider turning away. She made coffee for them, and they sat at the kitchen table. She cut two pieces of cake her cousin Thelma made and sent back with them. They sat there within a strong silence eating cake and drinking their coffee.

"Buck, darling,..."  Linda Sue started,— as if she were feeling her way in a dark room,  "I don't know how to say this,— but I know how important children are to you, and we were planning on several. I can tell this is devastating for you, and I want you to know, I love you so much I'll understand if you wanted a divorce to marry again so you may have the children you've always wanted."

Buck didn't say anything. He just sat there eating his cake.  He didn't respond or look up.  He slowly, methodically took a sip of his coffee.  He sat his cup down and stared at it engrossed in his own thoughts.

"No,— you couldn't love me as much as you claim if what you say is true."   He spoke barely above a whisper.

"But, I do, Buck, believe me, I do." Linda Sue started weeping.

"Then, am I to believe you didn't mean the vows we exchanged at our wedding?"

"I meant every word, Buck,— you must believe that!  I loved you then, and I love you more now."

"Well,— I meant the vows I said to you, Linda Sue, and if you meant only part of the vows then you really didn't love me when we got married."

"Buck? How can you say that? Of course I did!"

"Well, then,— what happened to the vows, 'for better or for worse, through sickness and in health, until death do us part'?"

Linda Sue was beginning to see where her big, lovable husband was going with this. He wasn't going to let her feel guilty or take the blame for this news by herself. He was moving in for the kill, and she knew it. She never loved a person in her life more than she loved her husband, Buck Claymore, at that moment.

"I meant them Buck, and I'm so ashamed I said that. I knew in my heart you would never accept that from me, but something in me said to make the offer. Now,— I'm sorry I did. I love you so much but I hurt so bad inside, Buck,— because I can't give you the children you want."  Linda Sue broke down into sobs. Buck took her in his arms and Linda Sue thought about Waddie's statement his uncle's arms were medicinal. She had to agree, Waddie was right, as she let her sorrow out onto her husband's big, understanding, caring, loving shoulder. He was a man among men. He was there for her and would always be there for her. He never gave her reason to doubt his love or fidelity.  She knew he never would.

He was honest with her from the beginning,— even, before they were engaged.  He carefully explained to her he carried on a sexual relationship with his brother, Morgan, for years and probably would after they were married;  however, she would never know about it nor would he ever embarrass her. She would never lack for sexual attention from him. He would see to it she lived a comfortable life and  would never give her reason to doubt his faithfulness to her.

She knew the relationship between Buck and Morgan was strained because of Waddie, but she was amused to see the developing relationship between Buck and Dan.  She knew what was happening, and in some ways she was pleased. It was something Buck needed, and she saw a great change in Dan after a certain point in their relationship.  Jimmy Sue was no dummy either.  She knew what was going on but didn't feel threatened in the least. They even talked about it one evening.

"Linda, I don't begrudge any love Dan and Buck have for each other. They work their ass's off together, and they certainly enjoy each other's company.  Neither of us could wish for better dads for the boys, and to be honest with you, Dan has opened up more to me, and been more loving since he and Buck became buddies than he ever has before. Believe it or not, he's become the lover I always dreamed he could be. He didn't get any love from his dad to show him how love should be between two people.  I, personally, love your husband for what he's done for me in my bedroom. I know that sounds crazy, but believe me, I know it's because Buck's shown Dan how to make love.  For that, I will be eternally grateful to your husband."

Linda Sue chuckled and had to admit Buck and her sex was much more intimate and loving since he and Dan became close friends.

"I've thought about it a lot," responded Linda Sue,  "and it's easier for me to know he and Dan are sharing something than Buck and Morgan. I love Morgan, but I love Waddie so much more. I can't abide the thought Buck might be showing him comfort when he's so opposed to what Morgan is doing to Waddie."

They agreed they didn't have to concern themselves with worrying about other women. They both felt secure. It bonded them together in their mutual knowledge, but it became their secret they never shared with anyone. It wasn't discussed. There was no need. No one was harmed, and it only made the four of them closer. Jimmy Sue reaped the benefits of Buck's love for her husband, and ultimately, Linda Sue came to the same conclusion about Dan's love for Buck.

That same night she shared with Jimmy Sue her horrible nightmare of having Buck's child and not telling Buck about it. Jimmy Sue urged her to tell Buck and let him start a search. Linda Sue swore her to secrecy as she wasn't ready to go that far yet. She thought she might but couldn't yet. She was still too fearful of Buck turning against her. Jimmy Sue assured Linda Sue she would never betray her trust.

* * * * * * *

At the end of second grade there were four top students. Oatie was first, Jannie Anderson was second, Gip and Waddie were tied for third. The boys had a wonderful summer. Oatie almost went nuts the week Waddie and Gip went to visit their great Aunt Agatha and the two weeks they spent with a rodeo chum of theirs on his grandparent's ranch outside of Alpine, Texas. It was a working ranch, and the boys got to be real cowboys for two weeks.

Oatie was kept busy. Dan and Buck weren't about to forget about the kid who was turning out to be one of the major joys in their lives. He kept Dan and Buck laughing for hours. He was a funny kid, and like Buck and Dan found humor in everything. The three of them would laugh together until they couldn't laugh anymore.

Being sheriff, Buck worked mostly day shifts but pulled an evening shift every now and then with either Quinton or Lyle. Sometimes he had business in other small towns around the county. He'd have Oatie ride with him and introduce him as another one of his boys. Country folk never questioned. If you said he's your boy, he was. Oatie would beam with pride.

They fixed Oatie a room at Buck and Linda Sue's, and he stayed with them most of the summer. Oatie would ride out to Dad Dan and Momma Sue's with Sheriff Claymore and his wife; he had no problem calling Buck, Uncle Buck and Linda Sue, Aunt Linda. He would work with the men all day if they were really busy, but most times on hot afternoons, he'd end up with the men in the creek. That kid could get undressed in the back of Buck's pickup truck, Bertie May, on the way down to the creek faster than a strip tease with her clothes on fire and would be running for the water with a huge inner-tube around his waist, giggling and laughing, before the men could get out of the truck. The rule was,— he couldn't get into the water until the men got there. Buck and Dan were right behind him. Oatie would squeal with delight when they all three hit the water.

He missed the boys but he had his two dads all to himself for three weeks out of the summer, and Oatie considered Dan Dan and his Uncle Buck his dads. He loved them and they love him. They insisted there should be no question in his mind they were his dads if he wanted them to be. He did, very much, but Oatie had one more man he considered his dad, too.

His aunts would cry and kiss Oatie goodbye the day after school was out.  They would see him only a couple of times the entire summer. He was either at the Justins, the Claymores, the Tates, the Dyers, and he began to stay more and more with Lyle Rawlings and his wife. Oatie and Lyle were drawn to each other like two magnets. Lyle and his wife, Mavis, had a little girl four years younger than Oatie. He was so kind and good to her they became like big brother and little sister.

Oatie loved Lyle Rawlings and his wife, Mavis. The feeling was mutual and Oatie was in Lyle's lap at every naked poker party. They were a team, and they were rarely beaten. Lyle and Oatie bonded. They formed a mutual love for each other that lasted a life time. Oatie could do no wrong in Lyle's eyes. Lyle was a saint in Oatie's eyes. He was Oatie's hero.

If the aunts got concerned they'd call Linda Sue, the Sheriff's wife, and she always knew were he was. Linda Sue would call them occasionally to let them know he was doing all right and having fun. The entire town became Oatie's summer camp. He was with Buck, Dan, Lyle or Quinton constantly, and they idolized him. Buck thought Oatie was a fine piece of God's handiwork and began to think about the possibility of adopting him.

* * * * * * *

Clyde Rayborn

The first day of school, in grade three, there was another new kid, a boy,  just a little bigger than Gip named Clyde Rayborn. He was loud, disruptive in class, and bullied everyone. Waddie, Gip and, yes, Oatie went to him and told him to cool it because he was much bigger than the small kids, and he was going to hurt one of them. He decided they couldn't tell him what to do. Since Oatie was the smallest of the three buddies, he followed Oatie home to his aunts.  Waddie and Gip took the bus home most of the time. If they had some reason for staying after school they would walk to the sheriff's station, and Buck or one of the deputies who was going out that way would take them home.

Clyde walked behind Oatie saying nasty things to him, and he bet he wasn't so brave now that his buddies weren't with him. Oatie ignored him but didn't speed up his walk;— in fact, he slowed down and allowed Clyde to catch up with him.  Oatie turned to Clyde and asked if he'd like to walk with him.

"Hell, no! I don't wanna' walk with no sissy like you!"

He knocked Oatie's books out of his hands. He shouldn't have done that. Waddie, Gip, Buck and Dan taught him to react quickly when confronted by a bigger kid. Don't wait for them to hit you. Try to hit them first as hard as you can and someway get them off their feet. When you're on top you can use your feet or pound them in the face with both fists. When you're protecting yourself against a larger boy there's no such thing as a fair fight. Leave that idea to professional fighters. When you stand to get your butt stomped you go for the most vulnerable places on their bodies. Don't be afraid to go for their nuts; they'll recover but you can bet they'll be down. If you're standing up; can put your boot in their face and break their nose, do it! It'll stop the fight real quick when they see blood coming from them. It'll make them think twice before picking on you again.

Clyde dropped his guard when he knocked Oatie's books out of his hands, and Oatie was taught to be fast. Oatie sucker punched the kid so hard it split his lip, upper and lower. He was aiming for Clyde's nose but settled for the copious amount of blood that was flowing from Clyde's lips. Blood was everywhere. Oatie became a crazed animal who smelled fear in his prey.  He wasn't about to let up and was going after Clyde.  Clyde backed up, tripped and fell. He rolled up into a ball covering his head with his arms yelling and screaming Oatie beat him up.  At that point Oatie was more disgusted that frightened.

"Oh, shut up, you big baby! You’re nothing but a bully and a coward!  You should be ashamed of yourself picking on a smaller kid than you.  I got a clean hanky,— here,— lemme’ take a look at your lip." Oatie demanded.

"No! No! You get away from me." Clyde whimpered trying to crawl away.

Oatie felt the power of being in control. For the first time in his life, Oatie was in charge of the situation, and he reveled in his moment of triumph; however, he marveled at his feelings of anger being quickly replaced by compassion. He was not yet quite willing to give up control until he was sure the situation was going his way.

"Either you shut up, calm down, and lemme' take a look, or I'm gonna' hit chu' again and break your Goddamn nose," he growled at Clyde like he’d heard his Uncle Buck growl at him when they were playing around. Clyde shut up real quick. Oatie gently wiped the blood away.

“Well, both lips are split,— it’s bleeding pretty bad, but I think you’ll live.” Oatie said with some noticeable disgust in his voice.  “Here,–- hold my handkerchief to your mouth and press gently to slow the bleeding.” Oatie barked at him.  Clyde wasn’t going to go against him again and took the handkerchief from him.  Oatie extended his hand to Clyde to help him up, but got a look on his face that told Clyde, ‘You better not try anything else if you know what’s good for you.’

“C’mon,— get up and follow me,”  Oatie commanded, “my doctor-buddy’s hospital is only two blocks away. I’ll carry your books and he’ll take a look at it for us.”
    
Oatie picked up their books, and walked Clyde to the hospital. Clyde didn't say anything but went along behind Oatie like a puppy dog with it’s tail tucked between his legs. Sure enough, Dr. Dyer was on duty and looked at Clyde’s lip, cleaned it with some antiseptic and astringent to stop the bleeding. It didn't need stitching, but he couldn't put bandages on it, they wouldn't stick anyway. Clyde's lips were beginning to swell and puff up.  Oatie gave Clyde the proverbial 'fat lip.'

Dr. Dyer almost couldn't contain himself. Their little Oatie brought in a kid twice his size whom he managed to give a fat lip.  The doctor couldn't help admire Oatie’s handiwork.  He popped the kid a good one.   Oatie really busted the kid's lips pretty damn good. He couldn't wait to call Buck.

When Buck got the call he was all business with Doctor Dyer.   Buck wanted to laugh, hoot and holler, but restrained himself.  He told Doc Dyer, Clyde's dad was their new deputy. They just moved here last week so he could start work. He'd bring his dad to the hospital.

Buck told Don Rayborn 'Oatie the terrible' split Clyde's lip in a fist fight, but Oatie took pity on him and walked him to the hospital. Don was ready to go throttle this Oatie kid, who obviously was a juvenile delinquent. Buck didn't tell Don about Oatie. Buck decided to have some fun. Buck looked down and shook his head in front of all the deputies and Mrs. Anderson.

"That Oatie kid is a hellion;  a real trouble maker and a mean ass little som' bitch. Why, he's beaten up every kid in school. All the kids are scared to death of him. We have that kid in here every other afternoon for something."

 Buck sent a glance around the room that threatened every person present to play along, or he would choke off their oxygen supply. There was suddenly much busy work going on from the troops to keep themselves from guffawing. The deputies, Lyle Rawlings, and Mrs. Anderson were listening to Buck's tongue in cheek description of Oatie, whom they all loved.  They could barely contained themselves. Of course he was in the station every other afternoon. They all thought the world of Oatie, would stop, pick him up, and bring him to the station just to say 'hello' and see his Uncle Buck. They were so thrilled their Oatie stood up for himself. They knew what the kid had been through. Waddie, Gip,  Dan and Buck were going to make a man out of that boy, and so was Lyle Rawlings if he had anything to say about it.  It was their first sign all their efforts were paying off.

When Buck and Don pulled away in Buck's patrol car, there went up a hoop from the men and Mrs. Anderson that their Oatie had taken out a bully. They were laughing, shaking hands and patting each other on the back. Oatie was their boy, and they couldn't have been prouder of him.

Well,—  Don Rayborn wasn't having any of that. He would set this bully straight. When the men walked in Oatie started to run to Buck, but Buck ever-so-slightly shook his head and pointed to Don Rayborn. Oatie knew immediately he was Clyde's dad. Oatie walked up to Don and introduced himself.

"Deputy Rayborn, I'm Oatie Trent." Oatie stuck out his hand. Out of reflex Don took his smaller hand and shook it, "Good to meet you, Deputy Rayborn. I'm sorry I hurt your boy, Clyde. I just feel awful about it. I apologize, Sir, but Clyde followed me home, knocked my books out of my hands, and was going to pick a fight with me.  I guess I over reacted, Sir."

When Don Rayborn saw how small Oatie was next to Clyde he started laughing.

"You're the terror Buck told me about? Who’s beating everybody up?" Don laughed. Buck was laughing, and so was Dr. Dyer. He knew Buck well.

"Awww, he's just a' joshing with ya,' Mr. Rayborn. That's the way Uncle Buck is. Takes a while to get use to him. Took me a while."

"Is Oatie your nephew, Sheriff Claymore?"

"You might say that,— right, cowboy?" Oatie ran to Buck.  Buck picked him up and stole a kiss.

"He ain't really my uncle, Mr. Rayborn, but I love him like he was my uncle. Hell, I love him like he was my dad, right, Uncle Buck?'

"Sure is, sweet baby. Love you as much as love my other two nephews.  Love you like you was my very own boy."

"And, is what Oatie told me true, young man?" Don asked Clyde whose lip was swelling more and more.

"Yes, Sir," he said with little emotion.

"I see. I think you owe Oatie an apology for knocking his books out of his hands and a thank you for taking care of you. He didn't have to do that, you know?"

"I'm sorry, Oatie, and I do thank you for bringing me over here to your doctor-buddy."

"I'm sorry it happened, Clyde, I didn't mean to hurt you. I just reacted. You want me to walk you home?"

"I'd appreciate that, Oatie."

"Mr. Rayborn, Sir, I hope you can forgive me for hurting Clyde. I shouldn't have hit him so hard. I feel bad about that." Don Rayborn was laughing his ass off, and so was Buck. Don stooped down to talk to Oatie on his level.

"Listen, young man, you don't owe me or Clyde an apology. If anything, we both owe you one. I hoped Clyde would meet a fine young man like you to become buddies with. I only hope you'll find it in your heart to give him another chance." Don shook Oatie's hand and pulled him to him into a big hug.

"No problem, Mr. Rayborn. Clyde can be my buddy. I like Clyde, but my buddies and I ain't gonna' put up with him bullying the smaller kids and little girls."

Clyde looked down at his boots. Don Rayborn glared at him.

"Oatie, you and your buddies have my full permission to kick his Goddamn butt the next time ya'll catch him picking on a smaller kid. I won't stand for that myself. After you guys take care of him, you come and tell me. I'll believe you. Then he'll get his ass kicked again. He picked on the wrong small kid today, I can tell you that, and I hope that's gonna' be a lesson to him. He deserves what he got, but he'll get another talking to tonight, you can count on it."

"Don't be too hard on him, Mr. Rayborn, I did hurt him pretty bad." Don loved this kid.

"You're welcome at our house anytime, Oatie, and it's an honor to meet you."

"Same here, Mr. Rayborn. Come on Clyde, here's your books, I'll walk you home." The two boys left. Don, Buck, Doc. Dyer and the nurses exploded with laughter.

"Hell, Buck, I was expecting a juvenile delinquent with a leather jacket smoking a cigarette." Buck and Doc Dyer told Don Oatie's story, and he couldn't believe it. He was impressed.

“Sorry I had a little fun with ya,’ Deputy Rayborn,” said Buck. “I just didn’t think you’d believe me if’n I told you the truth about Oatie.”

"You’re probably right. I imagined someone completely different. Who's his buddies, Buck?"

"Morgan's boy, my nephew, and Dan Justin's boy, my other nephew."

"Waddie and Gip?"

"Yes, Sir! Clyde don't wanna' mess with 'em, but if he extends his hand in friendship he couldn't have three finer kids for buddies. You'll find out the whole community thinks the world of those three boys."

"I can second that, Mr. Rayborn. There aren't three finer boys in this county." All the nurses agree with the doctor.

Buck decided to talk to Dr. Dyer about the possibility of adopting Oatie. Was it too much to ask of the Old Man for Buck to want two sons? Two boys who needed a dad? He would call upon Mr. Urial for his advice and see if he would intercede.

* * * * * * *

Oatie walked Clyde home. He lived three streets over from Oatie. They walked slowly and talked.

"Clyde, why would you wanna' hurt me? I ain't never done nothing to you."

"I don't know, Oatie. Nobody pays any attention to me. Everybody here knows each other, and I don't know nobody. I feel so left out; like I don’t belong here and ever’ body knows it.  I guess I just wanted to get your attention, and boy,— did I get it."  It was the first time Oatie heard Clyde laugh. He had a deep musical laugh he fell in love with. "For a little guy you have one Hell of a left hook. Glad you took me out, Oatie."

"Why would you say a thing like that? I'm awful ashamed of what I did to ya.'"

"Don't be. If I'd a' hurt you, your buddies would've been after me. I might be able to take Gip but not Waddie. Certainly not both of 'em together. But, that's not why I'm glad. You wouldn't wanna’ talk to me no more or be my friend if I hurt you. I'm glad because I got to know you a little bit, and maybe we can be friends. I had to leave all my friends when we moved here last week. I feel so lonely sometimes, I don’t want to go on living." Clyde started crying. Oatie took him in his arms and comforted him.

"Shuuu, it's gonna' be all right Clyde,— you and me,— we're gonna' be buddies. My two brothers will really like you."

"You got brothers?"

"Yeah, Waddie and Gip are my brothers. I love them. They've been so damn good to me, and they'll be good to you if you give 'em half a chance."

"I really admire them. They're the leaders in everything. Even though they didn't know me, they made sure I was included. I'd like to know them."

"You will. You okay, now, Clyde?"

"Thanks for walking me home, Oatie. I’m sorry I was such an asshole. You're a real nice guy. I'd be glad to be your buddy." Clyde didn't expect what happened next. Oatie grabbed him, hugged him, kissed him on the cheek, and told him,

"I love you, Buddy." Clyde didn't know were it came from, but he kissed Oatie on the cheek and returned his sentiment,

"I love you, too, Oatie. See ya’ tomorrow."

"Okay, see ya,' Clyde." Oatie walked away, down and around the corner and was gone. Clyde stood there looking after him as one tear ran down his cheek. It cost him a fat lip, but he had a buddy who loved him. He decided he was going to wear his fat lip with pride, tell everyone his buddy gave it to him,— and,— you don't, even, want to mess with him.

* * * * * * *

Of course, Buck couldn't wait to get home to tell Linda Sue and call Dan and Jimmy Sue. Dan was thrilled and laughed his ass off.

"Good for Oatie! Hell, that's wonderful. I'm really proud of that kid, and I know the boys will be, too. Now if we can just get him to keep his clothes on we'll really be doing something." Buck and Dan broke up on the phone. Buck called Oatie's aunts and asked if he could pick up Oatie for dinner; they were going to the Justins. They said sure, and Oatie was waiting for Buck. Buck grabbed him in the car, hugged, and kissed him. Oatie giggled.

"S'damn proud of you, Oatie. Proud to have you call me uncle. C' mon, tiger, let’s go pick up Aunt Linda, and I know some boys who are waiting to give you a big hug, a kiss, and a pat on the back."

"Awww, Uncle Buck, I'm embarrassed. I feel bad about getting into a fight. I hurt the boy. I feel awful about that. Clyde's gonna' be my buddy, though."

"I'm the sheriff of this damn county, right, sweet baby?"

"Sure, Uncle Buck."

"The Sheriff says, you did the right thing. Now, don't beat yourself up. Stand proud, Oatie. You've come a long way from a year ago, and, by God, I'm proud of you."

"Thanks, Sheriff. I just wish my buddy could go with us."

Buck turned at the next block and headed in the opposite direction.

"You're going the wrong way, Uncle Buck." said Oatie.

"No, I ain't. The Rayborns live this way, don't they?" Oatie just giggled, hugged Buck, and kissed him on the cheek. He was no longer surprised at anything his Uncle Buck did.

"I love you, Uncle Buck. You're a good man."

Buck and Oatie pulled up out front just as Don Rayborn was getting out of his car.

"Grab Clyde! We're going to the Justin's for dinner. You guys come along. Be a good chance for Clyde to meet Waddie and Gip. He won't feel so isolated." Don hollered at Clyde, he was thrilled to see Oatie again, and more thrilled he and his dad were going to dinner at the Justins. Buck ran in to pick up Linda Sue. He called Dan to tell him he wouldn't ordinarily do it but could he bring a couple of guests for dinner; his new deputy and his son, Clyde,— Oatie's new buddy.

"Oh, so he's Oatie's buddy now?" Dan laughed "Sure, bring 'em on. We're having Oatie's favorite, hamburgers, we got plenty. Oh, by the way, we invited Lyle Rawlings, his wife, and little girl to be with us. Since it's a special evening, didn't think you'd mind."

"Hell, no! He's same's you, Brother,— easy on my eyes." Buck laughed, "See ya'll in a little bit."

* * * * * * *

Buck pulled the car around in back and Dad Dan, Momma Sue, Lyle, Mavis, their daughter Mavis Lyle, Waddie and Gip came out of the house to greet them. Buck introduced his new deputy to Dan and Jimmy Sue. They welcomed him to their ranch.. Oatie took Clyde by the hand to introduce him to Waddie and Gip.

"Brothers,— I want you to meet my new buddy, Clyde Rayborn." Clyde stuck out his hand to Gip. Gip took it and pulled Clyde to him.

"You don't shake your buddy's hand, Clyde.  You hug him, give him a kiss, and tell him you love him. Gip hugged him, kissed him on the cheek, and told Clyde he loved him.

"I love you, brother." Gip told him. Clyde was reduced to tears as he kissed Gip back.

"I love you, too, Brother." Waddie did the same thing. Waddie looked at him and smiled.

"Did our little brother do that to you?" Waddie asked inspecting Clyde's lip. Clyde blushed and shook his head, 'yes,' then smiled.

"Goddamn it, Oatie! How many times does Gip, Dad Dan, Uncle Buck and I have to tell you,— you just can't keep going around beat'n up bigger kids?"

Oatie ran to Waddie, giggled as he threw his arms around him and kissed him on the cheek. Everyone broke into laughter and Clyde laughed hardest. Oatie took Clyde by the hand and introduced him to another one of his dads, Mr. Lyle Rawlings, Mrs. Rawlings and his little sister, Mavis Lyle.

"Mr. Rawlings is Chief Deputy Rawlings, Clyde, your dad's new boss along with Uncle Buck."

"Good to meet you, Sir, Ma'am, and nice to meet you, too, Mavis Lyle. Sorry I'm talking kinda funny. My buddy, Oatie, here, gimme' a fat lip today, but I deserved it. I was being an a-hole.  I don't think it's too big a price to pay to get me a new buddy and brother. I'm gonna' wear it with pride."

Lyle Rawlings roared with laughter with Clyde. Oatie and Clyde took Mavis Lyle by the hand and followed Waddie and Gip into the house. Oatie made sure his little sister, Mavis Lyle, was included in everything. She was five and would be entering school the next year. She wasn't the least afraid. She had four big brothers to look out for her.

Waddie and Gip won Don Rayborn over that evening and he invited them to their house anytime. No one knew except Lyle and Buck that Don Rayborn's wife died in child birth with Clyde, and Don had to raise him by himself with the help of his mother. Don's dad died the year after his wife, so it helped him and his mother get over both losses to care for Clyde. Don wouldn't have accepted the new job if Clyde was younger, but he felt he was getting old enough to take care of himself and start being responsible. He was thrilled Oatie, Gip and Waddie accepted Clyde so readily.

Don and Clyde were amazed at how easily Oatie fit into the family. Oatie was one of the family. They didn't talk about anything Oatie wasn't included in. Clyde was accepted as well, and he and Don Rayborn never felt more comfortable with a group of people. Don knew that evening he'd made the right move.  After dinner Clyde admired Waddie's boots, and Waddie told him to try one on. It fit him perfectly. Waddie handed him the other one.

"There, brother, they're yours." Clyde's mouth dropped open.

"I couldn't take your boots, they're yours." said Clyde.

"You said you liked 'em." said Waddie

"I do, they're beautiful! I ain't never had such a beautiful pair of boots. Dad...?" Clyde looked to his dad for guidance.

"If a man gives you something, Son, it's not polite to refuse his gift."

"I don't know what to say, Dad."

"Try, 'thank you', Son." Clyde had tears in his eyes as he grabbed Waddie, hugged, and kissed him again.

"Thank you, brother. I'll remember who gimme’ these every time I wear 'em. It's really nice of you, and after the way I treated you guys, I don't deserve it."

"You're gonna' treat us different from now on, ain't cha'?"

"You bet! You guys are my buddies; besides, I need protection from that mean little kid." Everyone laughed. Clyde was fitting right in. Don Rayborn was proud of his boy and knew these three boys were Clyde's future. He couldn't have approved more.

Dan, Lyle and Buck talked together and decided that evening was a good time to give their three boys a gift. It was a little over a year ago the boys decided to help Oatie and ended up with a treasure for a friend, a buddy and little brother. Dan handed Waddie and Gip two small packages, and Buck brought in one big package from the trunk of his car. He handed it to Oatie. Lyle Rawlings came in the other door from his truck, and handed Oatie another package.

"Before you men open these packages we want you to know we think the three of you are pretty special." Dad Dan began a small speech, "A little over a year ago Waddie and Gip decided to invest their time in a little man who was new to their school and was having a hard time adjusting. They weren't guaranteed any pay off nor were they sure they would be successful, but I think everyone will have to agree their investment paid off ten fold. No! I take that back! A hundred fold! Not only did they get a buddy, a brother, we all got a wonderful, kind, thoughtful, intelligent, loving little man in our lives, and we couldn't beat him off with a stick." They all laughed. Dan got serious.

"We wouldn't want to. The thought of not having Oatie in our lives is too sad to think about. And, you, little man," Dan pointed a finger at Oatie, "why, the Hell, didn't you tell anyone today was your birthday!" Oatie began to cry. Waddie and Gip ran to his side; Clyde did, too, and put their arms around him. After the boys comforted and congratulated Oatie, Lyle opened his arms, and Oatie crawled up into his partner's arms. He hugged and kissed Lyle, and Lyle stole a kiss, too. Buck smiled to himself. He knew at that moment, without a shadow of a doubt in his mind, who would become Oatie's dad.

Buck didn't know it at the time, nothing had been said, but the idea had all ready been put into motion. Mavis couldn't have anymore children after her daughter. She almost died giving birth to Mavis Lyle and the doctors insisted she have her tubes tied. Lyle loved his daughter, but having Oatie for a son was just to damn tempting. Buck had mixed feelings. He was happy for Lyle and Oatie, but a little disappointed for himself. Damn it, he was going to have a talk with that kid. He wasn't going to let Oatie stop being his nephew if he and Dan had to legally adopt Lyle as their brother. They didn't have to, Lyle was just as crazy about the two of them.

"I didn't want anyone to make a fuss." said Oatie, "I was happy God sent me a new buddy for my birthday, but I’m so ashamed the way I treated him." Everyone didn't know whether to laugh or cry. About that time from the other room came Momma Sue followed by Linda Sue with a birthday cake with eight candles on it. Everyone sang happy birthday to Oatie as tears rolled down his face. He blew all the candles out. He was speechless. They all had cake and ice cream.

"Those two packages, Oatie, are your birthday presents from the six adults in your family who love you. Oatie jumped up and ran to Dad Dan, hugged and kissed him, thanking him. He ran to Buck.  Buck picked him up, stole a kiss and got another giggle from Oatie as he hugged and kissed him. Then he hugged and kissed Momma Sue and his Aunt Linda. Lastly he ran to Momma Mavis and then, to the love of his life, his partner, Lyle. Oatie was thrilled, and he hadn't even opened a package.

Oatie was excited beyond belief to open his presents. He opened the big box first and in it was a wide brimmed, black felt, cowboy hat just his size. Oatie was thrilled. Now he could be a cowboy, too. He quickly opened the second and there was his first pair of Justin cowboy boots. They fit him perfectly, and he wouldn't take them off. He stayed the night with Waddie and Gip, but refused to take them off to sleep They slept in the hayloft in the barn on old blankets Momma Sue and Aunt Linda Sue gave them. Oatie was transformed.  He made a handsome, young cowboy. Waddie and Gip were so happy for Oatie. They hadn't even opened their presents yet.

Finally, Waddie and Gip opened their small packages, and they found matching pairs of engraved spurs with kindness rowels. Their initials were engraved on them and on the right spur of each was engraved a small homely: "Love is it's own reward." They both got the message and were moved to tears. Dan and Buck knew the boys loved the spurs, but their greatest reward that paid off a thousand fold through the years was a frightened little man they made a commitment to. In one year's time Oatie had gone from shitting in his pants from fear to the top of his class, took out a bully who was going to pick a fight with him and made him his best buddy and brother in a matter of one evening. Oatie was on his way.

That night did something to Oatie. Once he got those boots and hat on and walked to a mirror, he saw a cowboy looking back at him that overwhelmed him. He knew he had to be a cowboy like Gip and Waddie. He worked hard at learning to rope. His buddy Clyde didn't want to be left out and started learning, too. He and Oatie became a team. They also fell very much in love.

Clyde had almost as big a dick as Waddie's but the first time he saw Oatie's dick he was unprepared. They all did a number on poor Clyde that Oatie had a dick the size of a pencil eraser. Clyde wondered why Oatie would just giggle. Even Buck and Dan went along with the boys and kidded Oatie about his little dick.

"Why, I'm a' gonna' have to carry a magnifying glass in my back pocket to help you find that thing, Oatie." Buck said to Oatie. Oatie would just squeal with laughter.

"I know. Poor Oatie. We thought about calling him 'short change.'" laughed Dan and again they all laughed.

Clyde didn't. He thought that was cruel. He loved Oatie, and it didn't matter to him whether Oatie had a dick or not. Hell, Clyde thought, ‘I got plenty for both of us. Gip, Waddie and Oatie always slept bareass. The first time Clyde stayed over with them in the loft Oatie tuned his back to the other boys to take his pants off. Waddie and Gip were watching to see Clyde's reaction. Clyde, Waddie and Gip were standing there in the buff and Gip spoke.

"Come'mon, Oatie, don't be shy. Clyde's our brother, he ain't gonna' make fun of ya.'" Oatie was primed. The three of them set poor Clyde up.

"You promise, Clyde?" Oatie said over his shoulder.

"You're my buddy, Oatie. I'd never laugh at you, 'sides you might gimme' another fat lip." They all laughed.

Oatie slowly turned around. There was nothing but silence. Waddie and Gip watched Clyde's mouth drop open, and his eyes almost pop out of his head.

"Son! of! a! bitch!" exclaimed Clyde as Oatie ran to him, hugged and kissed him. The three boys fell out laughing at Clyde. Then he started laughing. He knew he'd been had. Now he knew why Oatie didn't get upset with the kidding and just giggled. Oatie had enough dick for three men. Oatie and Clyde became great buddies.

* * * * * * *

In the fourth grade Morgan's beatings were more frequent and worse. He was determined he was going to 'conquer' Waddie. Because Waddie refused to admit he lied only made Morgan madder. Each time he beat Waddie harder. Morgan would beat the boy so badly, Waddie would have to miss three days or more of school. He wouldn't leave the hay loft in Dad Dan's new barn. Morgan never called or came over to check on Waddie. His buddies had to do his chores, but they were there for him without complaint. Clyde was beside himself.  He sobbed in his dad's arms for his brother, and told his dad he didn't know how Waddie could survive. They became Waddie's medical team.  They would tell Dr. Dyer about his condition, and he would give them medications. Waddie still didn't want anyone to say anything to Morgan, and he wouldn't let Dr. Dyer look at him. He would talk to him, but he wouldn't let him examine him.

Each time Morgan would shoot his load while beating Waddie. Waddie would never move even when Morgan hauled off and hit him as hard as he could. He could see the skin break, the blood start to flow, but Waddie wouldn't even flinch. Morgan couldn't understand. A grown man would be writhing in pain. Waddie would remain there until his dad climaxed and started to cry. Waddie would ask him if he was finished. Morgan would just nod. Waddie would go to him, take him in his arms and kiss him.

"I love you, Dad! I'm not guilty of what you're punishing me for. I will never again admit guilt to you when I'm not guilty. You will never make me lie again. There are worse things than your beatings, and one is being forced to become a liar. When you stop living your life as a lie, and be truthful with me then you'll be happy. Until that time they'll suck your soul out of body by destroying the love you and I have for each other. I forgive you, Dad,  but the time is near when I won't forgive you anymore. Then you won't have a son. God will take me away from you. Is it worth believing them over me?"

Waddie never felt anything while the beating was going on. He knew Mr. Urial was standing by his side with his hand on him. It was only afterward it began to hurt. He wouldn't even cry in Dad Dan's arms anymore. He would go to the barn, climb in the hayloft were he, Gip, Oatie and Clyde made a nest for themselves. There he would cry for hours with Gip holding him and Oatie and Clyde with their hands on him for support. They would stay with him for hours and bring him food and drink until he could face people.

Usually, it was his uncle who would climb up into the loft, hold him, and cry with him. He wouldn't talk to him because he knew Waddie had to do this his way. He didn't know why, but he trusted his nephew like no other. The kid had his reasons, and Buck could only comfort him as his own heart broke. Everyone in town was praying for the kid. There wasn't a prayer said in that town for almost five years that didn't include Waddie's name. Morgan began to be shunned by the town folk. Judy and her kids had to travel to the next larger town to buy groceries and shop. None of the merchants would sell to them anymore. They wouldn't sell to Morgan either. Even Gary Stiles whom he grew up with wouldn't sell Morgan's wife groceries. Gary Stiles minced few words with Morgan.

"Morgan, there comes a time in every man's life when he has to stand up for what he believes. I've seen what you're doing to that beautiful boy and it's my way of saying you're wrong. No kid deserves what you're doing to him. Everyone in town knows Waddie ain't a bad boy. It ain't Waddie. It's either them folks you call family or it's you. You're a fool, Morgan, and I'm ashamed I ever called you my friend. You're no longer a friend of mine. Buy your groceries elsewhere." There was no more arguing with Gary.

When Waddie wouldn't talk to Buck he'd agree to talk to Dad Dan. Sometimes he couldn't put his real dad through his pain. He knew Buck so well by that time he could feel Buck’s heart breaking as he was holding him.  Waddie didn't want to put anyone through it, but he would relent sometimes to his brother's pleading and agree to talk to Dad Dan.

Dan climbed up into the loft, alone, one afternoon after one of Morgan's more severe beatings. Waddie was trying to take a nap, but he was glad to see Dad Dan. He cried when Dan took him in his arms, and Dan couldn't be strong anymore. This beautiful child whom he adored enough to accept as his second son, who had never lied to him, had never let him down, who loved and gave unconditionally to his other son, was in pain, and he didn't know what to do unless Waddie let him.

"Oh, Waddie, why won't you let me or Buck do something? You don't have to suffer like this. It's killing your family, and I don't mean Morgan or those people who live in his house. Your three brothers hurt so bad for you. Don tells me Clyde is a mess. He comes home and cries for hours in Don's arms. Lyle says Oatie cries himself to sleep at night for you and Gip. Gip is ready to kill Morgan. I've given Buck all my guns for the time being. Not only because of Gip, but when I see you come walking up after being in that barn with him I want to go kill him myself.  You're my son, Waddie. You're as much my son as you are Morgan’s. You're my boy as much as Gip is my boy. I don't even think of you separately anymore. I don't just think of Gip. I think of my boys, Waddie. You and Gip. You and me, Waddie! We've given each other that right! God's given us that right. I love you so Goddamn much, Son. I can't stand by and let this go on. What kind of a dad would I be, Waddie? Let us put an end to this,— now,— today. Dr. Dyer has the papers drawn up waiting for you to tell the sheriff you want protection. You can live with us or your uncle. Hell, Waddie, you could walk up to any Goddamn door in this town, knock, and you'd be home."

Dan broke down and cried his big heart out with his boy; holding him, kissing him, whispering to him how very much he loved him. Waddie could let his soul hang out with his dad, Dan. He told Dan over and over he was right. He was Waddie's dad, and he accepted him that way. Waddie thought of himself as his son. There was no doubt in his mind who his dad was, and who his brother was; however, Dad Dan had to hold off for a while longer. Waddie made Dan promise.

"Dad, listen to me. I shouldn't share this with you but you know I trust you. Believe me, Dad, there's only one more beating I have to get through. I can't tell you more but trust me, Dad, I don't want you doing anything foolish for my sake. I love you far too much for that. Promise me, Dad! Please! Only one more, and it will be over. I don't feel a thing when he's doing it, Dad, honest! My angel's there with me with his hand on me. He talks to me, Dad. He told me only one more. You mustn't tell anyone, not even Momma Sue, Gip, or Uncle Buck. Please, I'm trusting you! I know I can, Dad. I know you! You won't let me down, Dad."

"You know I won't, Son, but it's just so damn hard. Then,— you're telling me there's an end to this madness coming soon?"

"Yes, Sir, Dad, I promise.  Mr. Urial wouldn't lie to me."

"Thank the Great Father above us, Son. Blessed is his name! I don't want you to have to go through even one more, but if it's his will, I'll try to be strong for you."

"He is blessed, Dad, and he gave me the finest, most loving dad I could ever hope to have in you. I love you so much."

Dan didn't know why he did what his did, but he knew it was right. He kissed Waddie on the mouth with all the love and passion a dad could express to his beloved son. Waddie drank in his dad's love like a sponge. At least Waddie had shown his dad a light at the end of a very, long, dark tunnel and for that, Dan Justin, was grateful.

* * * * * * *

Ed Bloomquist

Waddie made it a point to be coming or leaving the house to go to the barn when he saw Mr. Bloomquist pull up in his plumbing truck to spend an afternoon fucking Judy.

'He must be a Hell of a man,' thought Waddie.

He'd heard him and Judy in her bedroom and from the sounds of things he must've fucked her three or four times in about a two hour period. Waddie always waved to him, smiled friendly, ask how he was doing, how his boy Johnny was, and went on his way to the barn to take care of the stock. He didn't like being around when they were fucking. Not because he felt anything for Judy, but because the whole situation made him feel uncomfortable.  He really liked Ed Bloomquist and hated to see such a fine looking man wasting his time with the whore of Babylon. Especially, since Waddie could be sucking his dick and enjoying a mouth full of man come instead of drops and globs.

Judy told Ed Bloomquist Morgan's little bastard child knew about them.

"He threatened me and Willie if he didn't get everything his way he'd tell Morgan we been seeing each other."

"I thought he was your kid, Judy?"

"Oh, Hell, no! That little bastard? His Morgan's boy. Morgan can't have kids so he talked me into putting my name on a phoney birth certificate for that little devil. Morgan bought him from some nurses at the Methodist Hospital in Dallas. He was taken away from his real mother at birth, and our names were put on his birth certificate.”

"Who's his real parents?"

"We never knew. They don't tell you when you buy a baby on the black market. Morgan don't dare do nothing to kick us out 'cause if I go to the law and tell 'em he could go to prison. They might try to charge me with accessory to a crime, but it wouldn't stick. I refused to be that little monster's mother from the first."

"Yes, I've heard the stories."

"About me throwing out all his shit?"

"Yeah."

"Wasn't me. It was my boy, Willie. He hates Waddie and Morgan both. Willie's been framing the little bastard for years, and Dorothy and me tell Morgan we saw him do it. He gets his little ass beat until he has to admit to Morgan he done it. Morgan's so stupid, he thinks if he beats a confession out of the kid, he must be guilty." Judy giggled meanly and Ed Bloomquist began to wonder.

"I know Waddie pretty well. He’s a good friend to my boy.  He’s been over to our place lots of times.  Do you think if I talked with him or maybe put the fear of God in him he wouldn't say anything?"

"S'worth a try. Now a' days, he don't threaten too easily."

Ed Bloomquist took his boots and overalls off. He never wore anything under his overalls; no shirt or underwear. He was ready to climb on Judy and ride. He was hard as a rock. Ed had a problem though. If he didn't jack off about thirty minutes before he arrived he no sooner got it in than he'd shoot. Of course he'd fuck her three more times and it would take longer each time so Judy got her jollies.  After they finished, Ed Bloomquist washed himself throughly and got dressed.  He could see Waddie feeding stock down in the old barn.

"I'm gonna' walk down there a have a talk with Waddie and see if we can come to an agreement."

"Suit yourself." Judy told Mr. Bloomquist as she took his money. He gave her twenty bucks a visit. That was a lot of money in the early fifties.

Ed Bloomquist walked down to the old barn and walked in. He saw Waddie sitting on a bail of hay. He couldn't get over how much he looked like a kid in grade school he secretly loved and wanted for a close buddy, Buck Claymore. He was always jealous of Morgan and his relationship with Buck. That's why it wasn't too hard to fuck Morgan's wife, Judy, behind his back. He always felt if Morgan wasn't in the picture, he and Buck would've been best buddies. Waddie looked up.

"Oh, hi, Mr. Bloomquist."

"Hi, Waddie. What chu' doing, Son?"

"My dad got some stock and I promised I'd help him take care of 'em so I come down here to feed and water to give you and Judy some privacy."

"That's thoughtful of you, Son. I guess you're old enough to know what's going on."

"Yes, Sir."

"Can we talk about it?"

"Sure, Mr. Bloomquist. I don't mind."

"Does it bother you that, I... uh,.... I'm,... uhm,..."

"Fucking Judy?"

"Well,— yes,— Waddie. I didn't wanna' be crude."

"No, Sir.  Don't bother me none, she ain't my ma."

"What makes you think that?"

"Really, Mr. Bloomquist, do you think a real mother would throw out everything her child owned his first day in the hospital?"

"I understand."  Ed looked chagrined for even asking the question. "She told me Willie done it, and she covered for him."

"What difference does it make?"  Waddie asked shrugging his shoulders while looking at Ed.

"I see your point. If you don't think she's your ma then do you have any feelings about it?"

"Sure, Mr. Bloomquist. I won't lie to you. The only time I lie is when my dad used to beat me so bad I’d have to lie to him to get him to stop. I’d have to lie to him and  tell him I done something Willie done.  Ain’t been doing that for sometime, though.  He ain’t got me to lie and admit I done anything in a couple of years now. I refuse to lie to him no more no matter how hard he beats me. Sometimes, he beats me pretty bad."

"He beats you?"

Waddie smiled at Ed, undid his pants, turned around and lowered them so he could see the scars, the bruises, the open sores and cuts from Morgan's belt.

"Jesus Christ Almighty! Holy Angels of God! Pull your pants up, Son!"

"Come'mer, Waddie."

Waddie went to Ed Bloomquist's arms and he held the boy close. For some reason Waddie was overwhelmed by the big man's understanding reaction and started crying. Ed shed a few tears, and kissed Waddie about his head. Waddie turned his head slightly to meet Mr. Bloomquist's mouth. They kissed a gentle but understanding kiss. Ed was letting Waddie take the lead. The boy was gently pleading for more from him, and he gave it to the boy in his kiss. He knew he was bonding with the boy, but he didn't give a shit, it was too wonderful. It was something he'd always dreamed about. He had to have it. 'What was 'it' ?' he thought to himself. If nothing more than to share the moment, to call the boy, 'Son,' and really mean it. He had no idea of Waddie's motive or if he had any. Waddie could feel Mr. Bloomquist's dick getting hard though his overalls.

"Thank you, Mr. Bloomquist, I appreciate that."

"God! You're welcome, Son. Call me Ed, Waddie."

"Thank you, Ed."

"Do you want me to stop seeing her, Waddie?"

"T'ain't none of my business, Ed. It's yours and her business."

"She told me you threatened her, and that got me kind of worried."

"I had to, Ed. Them three damn near killed me a couple of years ago. I ain't gonna' let that happen again,— but, stop and think, Ed,— I love my dad. For all the beatings he gives me for stuff I ain't never done, I still wouldn't wanna' hurt him by telling him about Judy's whore'n around.  S'not like you're the only one, ya' know?"  Waddie laughed at the look on Ed's face.  "Why'd ju' look so surprised, Ed?  If'n she's sell'n it to you what makes you think she ain't a' sell'n it to other men?"  Ed looked kinda hurt but just shrugged his shoulder like it wasn't his business.

"How many men, Waddie?"  Ed asked sheepishly.

"A couple.  Well,— three really.  Two regulars, like you, and another man she sees from Mule Shoe once a month or so. She's so stupid she don't think I know about them neither."  Waddie grinned real big at Ed.

"And you wouldn't tell Morgan about them either?"

"Naw, Sir.  Don't wanna' give 'em no more grief than what he's all ready got with them son’s of bitches."

"Even though he's beating you for things you ain't done?"

"Naw, Sir. What’s the point? If he ain't gonna' believe me about them lying to frame me what makes you think he's gonna' believe me if'n I tell him the truth about Judy's whore'n around?  'Sides, Uncle Buck told me to believe in what they teach me in church about two wrongs not making no right."

"Well,— can't says I know much 'bout religion, but it sounds right to me.  So, you're telling me you won't betray my trust either?"  Ed Bloomquist stated quietly knowing his answer lay in his question.

"I like you, Ed,— always have. You've always been good to me.  You always have a good word to say to me, and me and your boy, Johnny, is buddies.  I wouldn't betray your trust. I hope I can count on you not to betray mine by telling her I won't tell my dad nothing. As long as she and Willie don't know, I have some protection against them."

"Damn, Son! I had no idea they were that bad or you have to go though what you do. For what it's worth she admitted to me today she and her daughter backed Willie when he framed you. Said they lied and told Morgan they saw you do it. How do you feel about the whole thing?"

"I appreciate you telling me but it ain't gonna' do me much good. That don't matter, Ed. I don't want you to stop seeing her. 'Cause as long as there's a threat to her and Willie I can at least live without them ganging up on me. How do I feel about it? I feel bad."

"For your dad?"

"Well,— yes, Sir,— but mostly for you."

"You feel bad for me?"

"Yes, Sir. You have no idea what you're dealing with, but I don't want you to stop because of what I told you. What my dad don't know won't hurt him, and you've all ready fucked her so many times what's the difference in a little or a lot? What's done is done.  You're just doing more of what chu' all ready done.  Does that make sense to you, Ed?"

"Hell, yes, it makes sense to me.  Is there anything I can do for you, Son?"

"Yes, Sir." Waddie looked up at Ed and smiled.

'Am I reading this kid right? Could he be sexually interested in me?' thought Ed.

"Anything, Son,— don't be afraid to ask. It won't go beyond me and you."

"I ain't never sucked a man's dick. I suck my buddy, Gip, all the time but we can't shoot yet. I love the taste of a man's come. Me and Uncle Buck use to jack off together, and some of his would land on me and I'd taste it. He got upset at first, but then, every now and then, he'd let me taste some off his finger. He wouldn't never let me suck him off. I wouldn't have asked 'cause he wants that to be my choice later in my life."

"Do you think you're gonna' be a homosexual, Waddie?" Ed asked gently trying not to be condescending.

"I don't know, Ed. I'm just a kid. Dad Dan tells me some folks grow out of it, some folks don't, and some men learn to enjoy both. How 'bout you?"

Something told Ed to be totally honest with the boy. He somehow knew Waddie would know in a minute if he hedged or told him a lie.

"Can't gainsay that, Son.  You listen to Dan Justin.  If'n he's giving you advice like that he's better'n your average man. A lot of men may not agree with him, but I damn sure do. Tell ya' my experience, Son,— a woman don't know how to suck a man's dick. Only a man knows how to suck another man's dick. Dan's right! I'd rather get my dick sucked by a man than fuck a woman any day; however, a gay man can't give me kids and I wanted a family. I still play off on the side now and again. I let some man suck me off once in a while when I can find one will’n. I drive over to Cypress Creek every other month or so and knock on the back door of their church organist. I take him a bottle of Jack Daniels.  He's always glad to see me and gives a pretty good blow job. I've even swapped blow jobs to get my dick sucked. It ain't so bad. I don't mind the taste of come myself. I can understand you like’n the taste but I got a feeling there's more to it than that.”

"You’re sharp, Ed.  You’re right, there is more to it than just that. I wanna’ to learn how to suck a man off, get really good at it,  so's I can suck my dad off."

"After beating you like that, you love him enough you wanna' suck him off?"

"That's half of why he beats me, Ed! He shoots his load while he’s beat’n me. Better I suck him off and have half an ass left to live with."

"Holy mother of God! You're telling me Morgan 'comes' when he beats you? Son,— that man's sick."

"Do you think you should be judging, Ed?"

"Okay, good point! You're absolutely right, Waddie.  I ain't  got a bit a' room to go ‘round judge'n nobody. How old ju' say you was?" Ed chuckled. "I shouldn't be casting stones at Morgan when I'm just as guilty as he is.  But, gimme’ a break, here, Waddie.  I admit it! Fuck’n another man’s wife is bad, Son. I know it ain’t right, but what Morgan’s doing to you is a Hell of a lot worse!  I can understand why you might wanna’ learn how to suck a man’s dick, but are you sure you want me to teach you?”  

"Yes, Sir, I am."

"Why me?

"You're a good looking man I find attractive. I couldn't take my eyes off'n you at my uncle's bachelor party. Of all the naked men there, you had the best looking dick of all of 'em. It weren't the biggest, but it sure was the prettiest. It made my mouth water thinking how good it might taste in my mouth with me just a' sucking on it. 'Sides that, you're a good hearted man, and you'd never do nothing to hurt me. You'd let me take my time to learn and wouldn't force me."

"You're,— what,— nine, almost ten years old? I could get arrested for child molestation."

"C'mon, Ed,— did you come out here to molest me?"

"No! No way! I'll admit I find you so attractive you make my dick drip, but I'd never force myself on you, Waddie; for no other reason than I'm really fond of you. I don't mean to scare you none, but ever' time I've seen you of late my old dick gets hard wondering what it would feel like to have you suck on it. I admire you and think you're a great kid. My kid ain't afraid to go to school no more because of you and Gip. My kid talks about the two of you like you're some Goddamn super-heros. You and Gip saved his ass more'n a couple of times from gettin' the shit beat out of him. You don't forget things like that, Son, and you don't do something like that to somebody you care about.  If, nothing else, I figure I owe you too much for that."

"That's my point, Ed.  Besides, I'm the one what's doing the molesting here, and I'd never deny that no matter what might happen. Why,— if'n I was big enough,— I'd wrestle you to the ground, rip your damn clothes off,  hold ju' down and suck your come right out a' you with you just a yell'n and a' holler'n.'" Waddie smiled and winked real big at Ed. Ed laughed, he knew Waddie was kidding but his dick suddenly got roaring hard.

"I don't want it all over town Waddie's a cocksucker. I have to trust you not to say anything. I know you won't. Consider the payoff for both of us, Ed. You train me to suck you off, the way you like it, you get free blow jobs when you want 'em, I get to eat your come, and if'n I'm real lucky I might even get another kiss from you like the one you just gimme.' "

"Damn, you drive a hard bargain, Son!" Ed smiled real big. "You're right about being gentle with ya.' I ain't out to hurt no one to get my rocks off, and the second part of your hard bargain sounds too damn good to pass up. Besides that, I happen to feel the same damn way about chu.' I was in love with a kid all through school you could be a double for. That's your Godfather, Buck Claymore, but he was in love with your dad.  Buck didn't know I was alive.

Another thing, I think I know determination when I see it, and if I don't agree to teach you or let you practice on me, you're gonna' find another man who will. He might not be as understanding as I am and damn sure wouldn't enjoy it more'n me. We have to trust each other equally or we both have a lot to lose. I know damn well I can trust you, and you wouldn't have asked me if you didn't think you could trust me."

"You're right, Ed. If it'ud ease your mind any, the man you always wanted for a buddy, my Godfather, Buck Claymore, sheriff of the county, knows I was gonna' ask you. I told him I was jealous of Judy 'cause I thought you were a hot man, and I wanted to suck you off. He told me you might go for it 'cause you liked to get your dick sucked better'n fucking. That's why I wasn't afraid to ask you. He told me I couldn't wish for a more gentle man to teach me than old Bloomers."

Ed didn't know whether to shit in his pants or tap dance. Instead he settled for a few tears.

"I know he said that 'cause that was Buck's nickname for me when we were playing football together. He really said that, Son?" Waddie shook his head,  'yes.'

"Well, I'll be damned! I never thought Buck gave me a second thought."

"Not so, Ed. He admires you and doesn't judge you. He's the one what told me to tell you to keep fucking Judy so's I'd have some leverage against her and Willie. Don't go get'n scared or nothing like that. He ain't condemning you. He wants you to keep on fucking her for me."

"What am I gonna' tell Judy?"

"Gimme' a quarter for every blow job I give ya' and tell her you're paying me off. Or, tell 'er you come down here to teach me some rope tying since you was in the Navy.  No,— no,— I got a better idea.  Tell 'er you're coming down here to put the fear of God in me and that's what we'll name your dick."

"The fear of God?" Ed laughed.

"Yeah,— that way, you won't be lying." said Waddie with a wink and a big grin. Ed threw back his head and laughed.

"That's pretty damn clever, Waddie. How old ju' say you was?" Ed just howled with laughter.

"I like the idea of giving you a quarter, pardner. That'ud help you out and me, too. What do ya' say?"

"Sounds good to me." The two men shook on it.

"What if I come down here first? I'll tell her I'm giving you a little so-dee and candy money to keep good relations. It would really help me out; Hell, it'd be more'n worth it to me. I come so quick the first time. If you took my first load for me then I can go up there a fuck her as long as I want to before I come again."

"Can I have a little taste this afternoon?" asked Waddie as he smiled and looked Ed in the eye.

"I was afraid you weren't gonna' ask. That kiss you gimme' a minute ago made me want you bad, Son. I gotta' be careful 'cause I got a feeling in the bottom of my heart I could fall in love with you real easy."

"What's wrong with that, Ed? I wouldn't think of asking a man to teach me to suck his dick if'n I didn't think I could love him."

"Come'mer, Son."

Waddie moved into Ed's big arms, and they kissed again. This time Ed was letting Waddie know his need and was pouring his love into Waddie knowing he was going to receive more in return. They gently broke off the kiss and looked into each other's eyes.

"You want me to take it out for you or do you wanna' do it?"

"I'd be proud to do it for you, Sir. It'ud be an honor."

"Damn, Son! You want me to come before you get it out?" Ed laughed.

Waddie hit his knees and unbuttoned Ed's overalls. He put his nose into Ed's crotch and pull the cloth up around his face, so he could smell Ed's strong, healthy, masculine smell.

"That's so damn hot, Waddie! You want'n to get a good smell of me. Shit, that turns me on!"

Waddie inserted his hand behind Ed's balls and gently pulled out his prize, balls and all. Ed's dick was a good eight and a half incher. It was a good, full size cock. The head of his dick didn't poke out from beneath his considerable foreskin even though he was semi-erect. Waddie could see the clearly defined egg shaped head of Ed's dick. He loved the large veins that ran the length of Ed's penis. All in all, he'd have to say Ed's dick was one of the finest he'd seen, and it made his mouth water just looking at it. Ed's cock looked like it was just made for sucking. There was a pointed flap of skin at the bottom that was dripping male fluids. Waddie couldn't wait to get his tongue up and under that beautiful foreskin and taste Ed's hidden treasure underneath. Waddie immediately bent over and smelled big Ed's balls.

"Damn, Ed! You smell so good. Can I lick your balls?"

"I'd love to have you lick my balls, Son."

Waddie started in and Ed relaxed on the bail of hay he was sitting on. He leaned against the barn wall and closed his eyes to the ecstacy of the boys tongue on his balls and ball sack.  Waddie was doing a Hell of a job for a beginner, and if he kept going the way he was, he was going to have his prize quicker than Ed originally thought. Waddie stopped for a minute.

"Lemme' know, Ed, if I do something that doesn't feel good or something that really does feel good so's I can learn."

"I will, Son. I was just laying back enjoying the feeling. You're doing fine so far, that feels so good. Love to have my balls sucked on. Something I like is a man that can get both in his mouth at the same time and suck on 'em. Damn that's hot. Your mouth may not be big enough yet to take both, but it still feels wonderful to have 'em sucked on one at a time."

Waddie immediately sucked one into his mouth and tasted its goodness as he chased it around with his tongue. He could sense big Ed loved that. Waddie sucked on the other one and then finished. He moved up for the main course. He lapped pre-come from the flap of skin hanging down from Ed's foreskin. It was almost sweet and he loved it. Waddie gently wrapped his hand around the base of Ed's dick and held it firmly. He took his tongue and inserted it in the mystery of Ed's foreskin. There he found the head of Ed's beautiful dick and ran his tongue around and around as he moved it in deeper. He felt the back and could taste Ed's flavor as he cleaned him good. Then he started trying to take Ed down his throat and gagged.

"That's all right, Son. Don't worry, none, about that. It feels good. If you pull my foreskin back a little the pre-come will lube your throat and make it go down easier. Gagging is a natural reflex, but you can control it. I don't expect you to learn everything today. Take your time, take it slow and experiment. It all feels good to me, no matter what you do. We ain't in no hurry, here." Waddie pulled back Ed's foreskin until the head was about to pop out. It was glistening with pre-come and Waddie tried taking it again slower. It was easier as the pre-come lubed his throat, and he could take Ed almost to his hand he had wrapped around the base of Ed's dick. Ed had the kind of dick that never got roaring hard. It always remained flexible. It got considerably bigger erect, but never got rock hard. That didn't mean Ed couldn't pump out as much man juice as any man and a Hell of a lot more than most. His was a good dick for Waddie to learn on because it was always flexible.  Waddie was still gagging but not as much when he released his hand from around the base of Ed's shaft. He wanted to see if he could take more and he tried, only to gag more. Ed lovingly rubbed his head and gently encouraged him.

"You're doing fine, Son,— for your first time. You ain't gonna' have any problem getting a taste this afternoon. That's feeling pretty damn good. Damn, Waddie,— if you feel this good now,— how you gonna' feel when you have some practice under your belt."

Waddie slowly eased the foreskin back on Ed's dick and was sucking the exposed head in his mouth and throat. Ed suddenly gasp, gulped in air, put his hand gently to the back of Waddie's head, and spoke softly.

"You've got me, sweet baby! You're gonna' get it! Feel it swelling, Son? Here it comes, baby! Aaahhhhh! Oooohhhh! Yeah! Chow down on my dick, boy!  Got yourself a big load there! Suck it down, cowboy, you earned it! That's a good boy! Is that you're first, full taste of a man come, Son?" Waddie nodded as he cleaned and continued to hold Ed's dick in his mouth. He held Ed's penis in his mouth for sometime afterward enjoying all the good strong masculine flavors of Ed. He cleaned Ed for the last time and gently kissed the head that was peaking out.  Waddie kissed each one of the big man's balls and gently returned Ed’s property inside his overalls. Waddie buttoned them up for him and smiled at Ed.

"You tasted as good as I thought you would, Ed. Thanks for that, I appreciate it!"

"Come'mer, Kid." Ed gently commanded. Waddie moved into his arms. Ed lay him back in his big arms and kissed Waddie with the kiss of a lover. Ed ran his tongue around in Waddie's mouth getting the flavor of his own fresh come. The boy had done well for his first time. He wanted him to know.

"Does that tell you anything, Son?"

"It tells me you feel the same way I do, Ed, and I couldn't be happier about it. I'm looking forward to us being buddies."

"What about you getting off?"

"That wasn't part of our deal. I only want to get you off. I have lots of time later to think about sucking you off and jacking off. My prize is eat'n your come. It's damn good, Ed. You're worth it!"

Ed stole a kiss from him.

"Well, here, Son. Let me give ya' a little something for this blow job."

"Not this time, Ed. This one was between us. It wasn't in the deal. I asked and you offered."

Ed had tears in his eyes.

"I don't know were this is gonna' go, Waddie, but you know you all ready stole my heart."

"Well, I'll keep it safe, if you promise to keep the huge chunk of mine you just stole safe."

Ed threw back his head and laughed.

"Let's seal this deal with another kiss, pardner"

The two men kissed a gentle but passionate kiss that spoke their bonding to each other. They knew they shared more than just a blow job. They genuinely cared for each other and knew it would last a long time.

Judy didn't suspect a thing. Ed was a good ole country boy and could sling bullshit with the best of them. It came in handy sometimes dealing with folks like Judy. He continued fucking her but got less and less interested in her the better Waddie got at his blow jobs. It got so bad he'd stay down in the barn with Waddie and let him suck him off two or three times before he went up to be with Judy.  Then, he'd throw one huge fuck in her, pay her, clean up and go home.

She never asked about the time he spent with Waddie. As long as she got her money, she didn't care. She just assumed he was keeping the lid on things. Ed's bullshit convinced her. He tried to give the kid more money, not because he was trying to make him a whore but because he'd fallen in love with Waddie. Ed just damn well wanted him to have it.

Waddie wanted to stick to their original agreement, but every now and then Ed would slip a ten or a twenty in Waddie's pocket when he wasn't looking. Waddie knew where it came from and would thank him later. After about six months Waddie was so good at pushing Ed's buttons, he could made him come faster than Judy could. Somehow,— he was proud of that.

Ed wanted to stop fucking Judy and arrange to see Waddie. Why shouldn't the kid be getting the money instead of that worthless bitch? Besides he enjoyed the time he spent with the boy a Hell of a lot more than the time he spent with her. He'd learned a lot more about what was going on and couldn't believe the hatred those three had for Waddie. Why? They couldn't tell Ed anything Waddie had done that was so awful to make them hate him so much.  Waddie wouldn't let him quit fucking Judy. He told Ed that was their agreement, and he expected him to live up to it. Ed agreed that was their agreement, he understood.  Waddie had reason to fear those three and Ed told him so. He cared for Waddie so much and wanted to at least share what time he could with him Ed agreed to keep on fucking her.

Waddie kept sucking Ed off every chance he got during that year, and he was getting damn good. Even his brother commented on his performance as a lover. When summer came Waddie was involved more with Buck, Dan, Gip, Oatie and Clyde. He still managed to slip away to feed Morgan's stock, and told the boys he'd be right back. He didn't fool Buck for a minute. Buck knew why he wanted to go by himself and covered for Waddie when the other boys insisted on going with him. Buck knew the minute Waddie saw Ed's plumbing truck turning into Morgan's place he was going to go feed Morgan's stock and Buck's ponies.

"Now don't get upset guys."  Buck would tell Waddie's brothers,  "Morgan insists Waddie do this by himself for the allowance he's paying him because he likes it done a certain way and Waddie knows what he wants. Don't feel bad. Waddie's just doing what his dad told him." It was the truth but Morgan didn't give a damn if the other boys helped him. Buck figured rightly, Waddie was sucking off Ed Bloomquist. He didn't like it at first then figured as much as Ed liked his dick sucked it would only insure Ed kept fucking Judy to get Waddie to suck him off. In a way Buck was proud of Waddie for understanding the pressure he could exert on another with nothing more than kindness. He knew Ed knew Waddie wouldn't tell Morgan, but Judy and Willie didn't know that. Waddie came back and Buck leaned over to whisper to him.

"Wipe Ed's come off your right ear, Son,— 'for anyone asks." Buck winked at Waddie.

Waddie hugged his uncle and kissed him on the mouth.

"Yep, that's old Bloomers, all right!" He said quietly. Buck and Waddie fell out laughing, but no one else knew.

Ed understood Waddie's schedule would be sporadic during the summer but almost went nuts the two weeks he and the other three boys went to Alpine to play cowboys. When Waddie got back and met Ed for the first time. Ed wouldn't let him go. He stayed quite a while with Waddie and asked Waddie to meet him in his old barn across the creek from Dan's property around seven o'clock that evening. Waddie agreed.  Waddie stayed in his room at Morgan's and went down the trellis to meet Ed in his old barn. Ed stored hay in the barn and had a nest made up in the loft. His wife and kids were gone for the weekend to her mother’s and he was alone. No one would bother them. Ed had blankets, sodas for Waddie, beer for him, a jug of water and some cups. It was the first time Waddie ever laid down with a man for sex. It was exciting but nothing to fear with dear old Ed. That's the way Waddie came to think of him. He was a dear.

Ed loved Waddie like his own son and wouldn't have hurt him for all the gold in Ft. Knox. With Ed it wasn't like going to lay down with someone just for sex. They were buddies. They'd laugh and talk,— make a little love, steal kisses from each other and then if they felt like it they'd share sex. Ed always allowed Waddie to take the lead. He never forced the boy to do anything. Waddie was always more than willing to please Ed and took great pride in pleasuring his big buddy.

It was a magical summer night, full moon, with four mockingbirds singing their favorite quartet from some obscure sixteenth century opera. It was the first time Waddie had anyone make real love to him other than his brother, but that was different. Ed was a mature man and his brother was a kid like him. Waddie couldn't have wished for a more gentle and understanding lover. That night Ed was not one sided. He wanted to suck Waddie as well and brought Waddie to a dry climax every time he shot. He held the boy in his big arms and made the sweetest love to him. He poured his love into Waddie and Waddie drank deeply of Ed's love as if it were a communion wine. As he held Waddie close, Waddie's face was next to Ed's and he could feel his rough, two days growth of beard against his cheek and loved it. He whispered into Ed's ear.

"Fuck me, Ed."

"Oh, sweet baby, I'd like nothing better, but do you think you're ready? You know my size."

"Can't never tell, until we try."

"Are you sure, Waddie? I don't have to have that, Son. You gimme' the best blow jobs I've ever had, and I'm perfectly satisfied. Later, when you're a little older, if you wanna' try, I'd be hurt if'n you didn't let old Ed have your cherry."

"I've just been thinking how good it might feel to have you inside of me. Because you've been so gentle teaching me to suck your dick, I know you'd be gentle with me my first time. I cleaned myself hoping I might talk you into it."

"You did that for me? Damn, Waddie, that's awful sweet but I ain't a' gonna' do it, Son. I'll make you a deal. The week after you graduate the tenth grade in high school, I'll make damn sure we get alone somewhere. I'd be pleased and honored, Son, to take your cherry, but, Waddie, don't ask me now. You're just too damn young. Besides, I want you to be able to shoot when I'm fucking you, and I might even enjoy feeling you come inside of me. I'll have to admit the more I fall in love with you the more I fantasize about doing everything with you. Can you understand, Son?" Ed kissed Waddie behind the ear.

"Sure, Ed. I had a feeling you wouldn't 'cause I know the kind of man you are. I love and respect you for that, Ed, and my feelings ain't hurt none. I just want you to know until then I'll be having my brother shove cucumbers up my butt to open me up for you. I'll save it for you, Ed."

"Damn, Waddie, you can say the damnedest shit. You feel my old warrior waking up down there because of the shit you're talking?"

"Let me have you this time, Ed,— just you. Lay back and let your buddy do you some good."

Ed pulled Waddie to him and kissed him hard. Waddie moved down to smell Ed good for the fourth time.

"Damn, Ed. You really smell good tonight."

"Did like you asked me, Son. Ain't cleaned up in two days. I can smell myself, and I have to agree, it sure makes for stronger sex between us. I like being a little dirty for you. I know how much you like it. Have to admit, Son, it really turns me on you liking to smell my body that much. My warrior gets harder for you than it ever has for Morgan's old lady."

Waddie sucked Ed off good and had Ed moaning at climax. He again made love to Waddie and could taste his own fresh come in his mouth. It was hot. They were both tired and finally drifted off to sleep with Waddie being held in Ed's big arms. He wasn't holding Waddie like his possession. He was holding Waddie like he wanted to protect the boy from the hurts of the world. He wanted his love to surround the young man and help him through his trials.

Waddie moved under the blanket to smell Ed's strong, healthy, masculine smell. He got to Ed's crotch, gently took Ed's penis into his mouth and slowly worked it to the back of his throat. He felt Ed reach down with his big hand and gently lock him onto his dick like it was something they'd shared with each other for years. He could feel the boy's breathing change and knew Waddie had drifted off to sleep. It's something the two of them had talked about and discussed; sleeping one night with Ed's dick down Waddie's throat. It felt natural to them. There wasn't anything perverted about it. Waddie loved Ed and Ed loved Waddie. Waddie knew he needed Ed and Ed knew he sure as Hell needed Waddie. That need had nothing to do with sex. It had to do with a bonding that flows easily between some grown men and younger men. One needs to mentor, nurture and the other needs to learn and suckle. Sex was just the icing on the cake.

Ed found himself becoming fiercely protective of Waddie. Later in the night, Ed reached down, pulled Waddie up into his arms again, and slept the rest of the night holding on to his little buddy. He had come to love Waddie as much as his own son. He found no flaw in this boy; no selfishness; no meanness; no self centeredness.  Waddie was loving, giving and genuinely cared about Ed. He gave Ed his all and did it for no consideration. Waddie's love for Ed was unconditional. He didn't expect anything or require anything from Ed for his love. That's why it was easy for Ed to give to Waddie. If he could help this kid, he would. His love for Waddie wasn't the passionate love of a sex crazed lover. He loved Waddie like he was his younger brother, his little buddy, he would protect against the very gates of Hell. Waddie sailed his barque of dreams through peaceful waters and found safe harbor within big Ed Bloomquist's protective arms.