Cabbage Patch Cowboy By
Waddie Greywolf Chapter
12
He what?!"
yelled Buck at Morgan in disbelief.
"He vanished,
Buck! I swear to God, I saw him,— then he disappeared. He was here one
minute,— the next he was gone. Poof!" Morgan snapped his fingers, "Like
that! I was coming down the front steps with a towel full of ice cubes
to bring him around."
"He passed out,—
from you beating him?" challenged Buck.
"No, from
whipping him." Morgan corrected Buck.
"Jesus, Morgan!
The boy passes out,— how could you call that a whipping?" asked Buck,
disgusted. Morgan didn't answer. "All right! All right! Go on!
Then what happened?" Buck insisted of Morgan.
"I saw Waddie
sit up on the bail of hay, he looked like he saw me, stood up and
vanished into thin air. I looked all over for him. I walked over to
Dan's. Jimmy Sue said he hadn't been around, she hadn't seen him. I
swear to God, Buck, I watched him just disappear!"
"Who do you
think's gonna' believe your story, Morgan? Even if I believed you, as
your brother, who a' my gonna' be able to convince you ain't lying. The
boy vanished into thin air? If you weren't my brother, I'd haul your
ass off to jail for suspicion of attempted murder."
"Attempted
murder? That's pretty rough, brother. I give my kid a spanking and
you're gonna' slap an attempted murder charge on me? I don’t think so!"
"You beat the
boy 'til he bleeds and call it a spanking? Don't talk to me about
rough, Morgan. I've seen what you've done to that boy,— all in the name
of getting him to admit doing something he didn't."
"Aww,— he's got
you brainwashed just like all the other people in this damn town. All
three of my family witnessed him doing what he did. He did it just to
punish me. He wants me for himself. He doesn't wanna' have to share me
with his other family."
Buck shook his
head in disbelief. He wanted to punch Morgan's lights out but he
couldn't. He had a better idea. With a little help from an old buddy,
Buck was going to nail Morgan's ass to the barn door. Buck had
heard just about all the bullshit he could handle from Morgan for one
day.
"Lemme' use your
phone a minute, Morgan." Buck didn't wait for an 'okay' he just walked
up the front steps and into the house. The phone was in the front
hallway. Buck dialed a phone number. A man answered.
"Hey, this is
your old friend, Buck. Well, I'm doing fine but we got us a
problem, and I wanted to give you a call to let you know what's going
on. Morgan's hurt Waddie pretty bad; he's run away. Is there a chance
he ran to you or do you know were he is? I see. Yes. Yes.
No. Now, might not be the right time. I know,— but that might
only add fuel to the fire. I wouldn't ask you to do that. Well,
you got a point there. I'm calling as a friend, not as
sheriff. I know you know I know.
Yes. He tells me
everything,— you should know that. I'm his buddy, same's you.
There's things he won't tell me 'bout you because he's bonded with you,
and he loves you like you was his big brother. He thinks the
world of you. No,— absolutely not! No, of course he
doesn't! He doesn't and I don't! He's not that kind of kid,
and you know it! And, you know me well enough to know I don't
condemn nobody. Yes. No. Yes. That's true,— he's my
brother, I love him, but he's wrong. No, no! I wouldn't ask that of you.
That's not why
I'm calling! You should know me better'n that. You're right!
No. No. You and me, we go back a long ways. I wouldn't do a thing
like that. I couldn't wear this badge and live with myself if'n I
did. We all love him, and I know you do, that's the reason I'm
calling as a friend. No. Sure, I'll stay here if you want
me to. Yeah, I 'll be here for a while. Don't want no mayhem, darlin,'
'cause then I have to stop being a friend and become sheriff,—
understand, old friend? I knew you would. Never told ju’ I love you,
did I? Take it to the bank, brother! See ya'!"
Buck walked out
and told Dan, Don, Lyle and Quinton what he'd done. They agreed
with Buck's actions but couldn't believe he did it. (Dan and Buck
decided it would be best to leave Gip at home with his mother.
They didn’t know what they would find at Morgan’s place and Gip had all
ready been put through enough.)
Less than thirty
minutes here comes Ed Bloomquist in his plumbing truck madder than an
old wet hen. You could see it in his eyes. Buck walked up to Ed, threw
his arms around him, and hugged him.
"Easy, brother.
I know how much you love him. You don't love him a whit more'n the five
men standing here. I'm your friend, Ed. We're on the same team.
Don’t forget that! No rough stuff,— promise?"
"I promise,
Buck. It's in my heart to kill 'em, but I know it wouldn't solve
nothing."
Morgan saw Ed
Bloomquist drive up. Ed and Buck walked slowly over to the group of men.
"Howdy, Ed.
Nobody called a plumber." Morgan joked as he stuck out his hand to
shake Ed's. Ed took it and shook Morgan's hand.
"Well,— yes,—
they did, Morgan." Ed let his hand drop, and looked Morgan in the eye,
"Your brother, Buck, here, called me a minute ago as a friend 'cause he
knows how much I love and admire your boy, Waddie. Waddie and me,—
well,— we've grown pretty damn close over the last couple of years, and
we've seen a lot of each other. I'm proud to call him my little buddy.
I think of your boy as my little brother. He means one Hell of a lot to
me, Morgan. I'm the only man he ever let see his ass after you get
through with him.
"Glad to hear
you like my boy, Ed. When you been visit'n with Waddie?"
"Once, maybe
twice a week when I come to fuck your old lady." Morgan went white and
started towards Ed. He was grabbed by three big deputies.
"You son of a
bitch! You low-life mother fucker, I'll kill ya'!"
"Maybe we better
talk about low-life mother fuckers, Morgan. I'd say you fit that
category right along side a' me. I can't believe you beat that
beautiful boy the way you do, and he still loves you. Loves you so
Goddamn much he wouldn't tell you about me fucking Judy for the last
two years, because he didn't wanna' hurt you. Now, you may wanna' get
your gun and shoot me. I'll take that chance because I love that kid
enough to tell you the truth despite the consequences. The main thing
you have to know is Judy admitted to me, she and Dorothy lied to go
along with Willie framing Waddie so's to drive you two apart. They hate
that boy, and, for the life of me, I can't figure out why. I don't
think they know. Judy can't even tell me. She just shrugs ever’ time I
ask. I don't think they have a reason. I think they're just bad people.
She thinks it's
funny. Told me you were fool enough to beat a confession out of Waddie
even though he didn't do it. Waddie's never done a thing you've beat
him for. It's all been Willie. Waddie never lied to you. In fact, I was
fucking Judy the afternoon Willie cut your pony. I watched him do it. I
can't help but feel sorry for you, Morgan. Not because Judy was
unfaithful. By the way, I ain’t the only one what’s been fuck’n her,
there's at least two others I know of. I feel sorry for you for having
lost your son. Waddie's the best thing you ever bought in your life.
Yeah, she told me about that, too. After this he'll never be your son
again. You just couldn't trust him when everybody in town was telling
you he was a good boy and he don't lie. How blind can you be, Morgan?
He'd take your
beatings, and never admit he did it. Why? Because he didn't? He wasn't
lying to you and wouldn't lie to you no matter how hard or how much you
beat him. I saw what you did to that boy and you should be just ashamed
of yourself as I am of myself. So let's talk! Let's talk about
low-life mother fuckers, brother,— I think we both speak it pretty
fluently.
Through his
pain, frustration and anger, Waddie ain't never told you about Judy's
whore'n around because he didn't wanna' hurt you. He'd take your abuse;
yet, never try to get back at you by telling you about Judy. You're a
fool, Morgan, to let those worthless son’s of bitches cost you your
greatest treasure. Tell me, Morgan, are they worth it?"
Morgan went weak
in his knees and Buck grabbed him for support. Buck sat him on the
tailgate of Dan's truck. Morgan put his head in his hands and started
to sob. None of the men but Buck would console him. No matter what he'd
done, Morgan was his brother. Brothers don't let their brothers down.
They're there for each other. Buck finally got him settled down.
"God, help me!
You're right, Ed. As much as it hurts, I know you're right. It'll be
hard forgiving you, but no matter what you did, I have to admire you
for standing up for Waddie and telling me the truth. I won't ever
forget that. Thanks for having the guts to tell me, Ed. My beautiful
boy will never forgive me. He was right, too, God took him away from
me. I don't deserve him. I didn't believe all that angel talk of his,
but, I gotta' tell ya,' something happened, here, this afternoon I
can't begin to explain. I have to believe it's a higher power at work.
Nobody just disappears into thin air."
"All I can say,
for what it's worth, Morgan, is, I'm sorry. I shouldn't a' done what I
done, but I was weak. She was sell'n and I bought. Don't make me any
better'n her though. I was wrong, and I ain't looking for excuses. I
may lose my wife and family over this, but I couldn't let this go any
longer without telling you the truth. I don't feel good about what I
done to you, but I feel damn good I stood up for my little buddy.
Somebody had to get through to you. No matter what it cost me, I
couldn't stand by, and see you do that to my little buddy no more. I
love Waddie as much as any man standing here."
Buck looked his
brother in the eye, "Morgan, I want every gun in your house including
Willie's. I'll hold 'em until the heat of this day cools down. If Judy
or Dorothy has a gun, I want it. Don't make me have to search the
house. You're my brother and I don't wanna' have ta' do that. I'm only
doing it for your protection and theirs. You'll get 'em back when
everything calms down."
"There's my
three in my closet. Judy and Dorothy don't have guns and Willie has a
.22 in his closet. That's the only gun he has."
"Deputy Tate,—
Deputy Rayborn,— would you get 'em, please?"
Quinton and Don
proceeded into the house to collect the guns. Willie wasn't home, but
Judy had an extra key to his room. She let them in, and they took
Willie's gun. Buck walked Ed to his truck and thanked him. Ed didn't
have much to say he was almost in tears from his frustration over the
news that his little buddy was hurt and ran away.
"If you hear
from him, Buck,— tell him I love him." Ed asked with tears running down
his face. Buck took him in his arms and held him.
"I will, Ed, you
know I will. You might hear from him first. If you do and he swears you
to secrecy, just tell him you have to let me know you heard from him
and he's all right. I won't ask you any more than you wanna' tell me.
Deal?"
"Deal, Buck!
What if he wants me to come to him?"
"Then go, Ed! If
you can get away. If there's any man I'd trust with my nephew, it's
you. By the way, he says you got the best taste'n come." Buck laughed.
"I wiped some off'n his ear couple weeks ago, and it did taste pretty
damn good!" Buck got Ed laughing. "I told him, I'd arrest your ass one
of these days, get me a big ole taste, and I'd be the judge of that!"
Ed blushed beet
red but smiled. Buck continued, "If you need to get away in a hurry,
Ed, need help with your place, let us know, and we'll be there. Gip,
Oatie, Clyde, me, Lyle, Dan, Don and Quinton will be there to pitch in."
"Thanks, Buck.
Anytime you want a sample, Sheriff, it's yours for the asking. Shit,
Buck! You know I've had a crush on you for years; be a dream come true.
But, I love Waddie as much as I do my own boy. You're right, I'd see to
it he's safe and being cared for."
"By the way, Ed,
what did you mean about Waddie being the best thing Morgan ever bought?"
"Didn't you
know? I thought you knew? Judy told me they ain't Waddie's parents.
Morgan can't have no kids. Bought him on the black market from a group
of nurses in Dallas. Begged Judy to let him put her name on the birth
certificate."
"No. I didn't
know, Ed. Thanks." Buck looked into Ed's eyes and Ed saw Buck's pain.
Ed new from Buck's face his brother, Morgan, hadn't told him the truth.
"I'm sorry,
brother, I thought you knew because of you and Morgan being,— oh, God,
I'm so sorry, Buck." Ed grasped Buck by the shoulder with his big hand.
"That's okay,
Ed. I'm all right. I appreciate you sharing that with me. For that,
Son, you might get that blow job sooner'n you think. 'At's a sure fire,
get out of jail free ticket, Son!" Buck smiled real big at Ed.
"Love you, too,
brother." Ed smiled at Buck as he offered his hand. The men shook hands
and Ed drove off. Buck walked back over to Dan's truck, and Morgan was
still heaving and sobbing. Reality began to set in. It was rough for
Buck, and as much as he hated what Morgan did to his Godson, his little
buddy, he couldn't stop loving his brother. He put his arm around him
and consoled him. Buck all ready heard Gip and Dan's story of the
disappearing truck. Dan didn't say a word to Morgan.
The Sheriff, C.
D., Dan, and the two deputies left Morgan’s, drove back over to Dan's
to pick up Gip, and the six of them set out for Mrs. Jessup's house.
Lyle and Quinton knew where she lived. She lived in a valley on a
little farm on the other side of the interstate. Mrs. Jessup was
sitting on her front porch shelling black eyes peas in a big, mixing
bowl when the men drove up. Buck and his deputies took their hats off.
"Afternoon, Mrs.
Jessup."
"Well, I do
declare! Sheriff Claymore, Chief Deputy Rawlings, Deputy Tate, Deputy
Rayborn, Mr. Justin and Gip. How nice to see you fine gentlemen. Come!
Sit down! Sit a spell! Can I get you gentlemen some iced tea? It's
awfully warm today."
"No, Ma'am. We
appreciate it but we just had lunch a while ago with Mr. Justin and his
family."
The men sat down
on the porch. Gip sat on the railing. Mrs. Jessup smiled at Gip.
"Forgive me, Mr.
Justin, and you, too, young man, for not waving when I passed you
today, but I had to stop and pick up Mr. Claymores Godson, Waddie, to
take him to the interstate. You couldn't see him 'cause he was
invisible to everyone but me and our friend, Urial. I think you've met
him, Sheriff Claymore? After that he told us he made my truck
invisible. Waddie and I weren't aware we were invisible, but I guess we
were."
"Yes, Ma'am. You
sure were." Spoke Dan. Gip nodded. "My son almost had a stroke when he
saw your door swing open, close by itself, and then your truck
disappear."
"I'm so sorry,
Son. I know Urial didn't mean to cause you any discomfort."
"That's all
right, Mrs. Jessup. He spoke to me, and told me what was going on. He
gave me your name. That's why we're here. I told my dad and my Uncle
Buck, here. We wanted to know if you could help us locate my brother,
Waddie."
"Well,— I was to
drive him to the interstate, tell him a trucker would be by in about
five minutes, by the name of Mr. Hershel Franz, and he would take care
of him. I waited on the other side to watch Waddie, and he sat down.
Then it looked like he fainted. I turned the truck around to go back to
wait with him. About that time Mr. Franz pulled up in his big rig and
lifted Waddie into the cab of his truck. He drives for the Rio
Grande Trucking Company out of Del Rio, I believe. No cause to worry.
He's a fine man and a friend of Urial's as well. He's taking good care
of your nephew, Sheriff, I'm sure. You'll be getting a letter from
'Bubba,'— that's what everyone calls him,— in about two days with two
rolls of color film. Twelve on each I believe. Is it twelve?" She
looked right by the side of Gip then nodded her head like someone was
confirming something,
"Yes, that's
right, Sheriff, twelve exposures on each roll of that poor child's
rear, back, and face."
"Is Mr. Urial
sitting next to Gip, Mrs. Jessup?"
"Why,— yes, he
is, Sheriff." Buck looked right next to Gip and spoke.
"Mr. Urial,— I
know you can hear me, Sir. You've listened to me many times for which
I'm grateful. Thank you for taking care of one of our most precious
treasures, my nephew. We all love him, but you know that, Sir. We came
to see if Mrs. Jessup could help us; but, I can see Waddie's in good
hands, and we shouldn't worry none. Forgive us, Sir, but it's hard not
to worry when we love him so much."
"No. Of
course not!" Mrs. Jessup spoke to the invisible person next to
Gip. "You know I wouldn't mind. Go on ahead!"
"Okay,— Sheriff
Claymore, Buck, good to see you again, Son. Mrs. Jessup was kind enough
to let me speak through her. I can't do it unless I ask permission but
she's such a gracious person she doesn't mind. I know you're all
worried about Waddie,— that just shows how much you love him, but he's
fine, trust me. You'll get a letter and a package from Mr. Franz,— fine
man, that Bubba,— probably tomorrow or the next day. Mrs. Jessup all
ready told you what would be in it. Take it to Dr. Dyer. He has a dark
room and is an amateur photographer. He can develop them.
It's pictures of
Waddie's wounds before and after Mr. Franz cleaned them. Dr. Dyer needs
to see them anyway to make a recommendation to you as sheriff for
removal of Waddie from the Lovejoy's home. He's to live with the
Justins, and of course, he may visit freely with you, Deputy Rayborn
and Clyde, the Rawlings, the Tates, the senior Lovejoys, Claymores and
Davenports. Oh, yes,— the Dyer's and his Aunt Agatha. He's not to see
his dad without adult male supervision, and by that, I mean you,
Sheriff Claymore, one of your deputies, or Mr. Justin. A visit may be
arranged at everyone's convenience, but only if Waddie wants to, not at
Mr. Lovejoy's demand. They're not to be left alone at anytime for
the first six months. If Mr. Lovejoy says anything remotely threatening
to the boy, their visit is to be terminated immediately. Right
now, Waddie's still with Bubba. Bubba's gonna' have a hard time letting
go and so is Waddie. I'm afraid the two of them have bonded and become
quite fond of each other; but, they'll see a lot of each other
over the years.”
"Is he a big
man, Mr. Urial?"
"A giant, huge,
bear of a man, Sheriff."
"Yeah,— Waddie
would love him." said Buck winking at Dan and Gip. They all chuckled.
"My Boss insists
Waddie has time away from any influence of his family; that's you, the
Justins, the Rawlings, the Rayborns and the Tates,— oh, yes,— and Ma
and Pa Lovejoy. He's afraid for Waddie to come home right now so we
can't tell you where he is. I'll have him call you regularly, but
please don't make it hard for the boy. Don't ask him where he is. You
know he won't lie to you. I'm with him around the clock so don't be
worried. He'll be staying with two wonderful men I know well who have
been tested by me and my Boss many times. They're good men, Sheriff.
The best. Every man here knows of them.
As for you, Gip,
my Boss told me to tell you he hated to separate you two. We know
how much you love your brother and this can’t be easy for you. Waddie
feels the same about you. He’s thinking about you this very
minute, sending you his love. He’ll miss you as much as you miss him,
but being apart for a while will help you two understand just how much
you mean to each other. Buy the way, Mr. Justin; Gip and I have met,
but I've never had the pleasure of meeting you.
Nice to meet
you, too, Chief Deputy Rawlings. Fine boy you're going to have with
Oatie. The Boss picked the two of you to be together. Course you knew
that all ready. Oatie was right, you'd lose your ass at poker if he
didn't become your son!" Lyle blushed beet red, he hadn't related that
story to the other men and they laughed.
"Only Oatie
could come up with something like that, Mr. Urial. We love him, too;—
Hell,— we love all our boys." said Buck.
"I know you do.
Bubba put his phone number on his letter where you may call him. He'll
stop by your office on his way back through within five or six days.
He'll call you and let you know. Don't expect him to betray his little
buddy. He won't do it. I know you folks better anyway. Trust in the
Lord and he will see you good folks through this. Waddie will be
returned to you whole and sound. When he returns he has one more trial,
and I won't whitewash it, it's a bad one. Don't leave his side,
Sheriff, he's gonna' need to draw from your strength. He’ll need all
your help. Waddie will rise above it and bring you a miracle that
will shake you to your foundation and move your world, Sheriff. You
will be born again to life. Am I right, young man?" Mr. Urial spoke to
Gip.
"Yes, Sir, Mr.
Urial."
"Deputy Rayborn,
it's good to meet you, Sir. You've felt my presence on several
occasions. You weren't sure, but you knew someone was there 'cause you
kept looking over your shoulder. That was me. You got a fine, handsome,
intelligent, sensitive boy. Let him run free with his brothers, and
he'll bring you great joy, pride and honor. You've tried praying
several times, but you sort of felt funny. Just talk to him, Don, like
you would your best friend. Hell, tell him a joke if you feel like it.
Just let him hear from you,— let him know you care. He cares about you."
"Now a word to
Mr. Tate. Quinton,— you're an intelligent, fine looking young man with
quite possibly the biggest heart of any man on this porch. Open your
heart, Son, and let his love in. Don't be such a doubting Thomas.
Thomas was there for folks like you. He doesn't mind if you have a
healthy doubt. He loves you anyway. Ain't nothing you can do 'bout
that. You're one of my sheep the Boss gave me to look after. I
know you listen to me, but sometimes you can be more stubborn than a
damn Kentucky mule. Loosen up, Son! Don't be such a tight ass,— unless,
of course,— you're with the Sheriff or the Chief Deputy." All the men
giggled and nudged each other. They knew exactly what Urial meant, "I
know you don't believe me, but when you were ten years old you told a
secret to a boy you've never told another soul in your life. It was on
a Halloween night in the loft of your parent's barn when you had all
the boys in your class over for a Halloween night sleep over. That boy
became a man who would never betray your trust. He's the only man
standing here who knows your middle name. You were named after one of
your presidents if I'm not mistaken." Buck hooted because he was the
person Quinton told his middle name to; Fillmore. Quinton smiled funny,
turned white, and look constipated.
"I have ta' go
now, Gentlemen. I've imposed on Mrs. Jessup long enough. By the way,
Waddie wants Mrs. Jessup to become one of his grandmothers. She needs
family. Help him with that, gentlemen. Gip, since your Waddie's brother
that would make Mrs. Jessup your new grandma, too. Let's go easy on
her, though, and ease her into the idea of Clyde and Oatie." The men
laughed. They knew what he was talking about. "When my Boss gets ready
for Waddie to come home, I'll send you to him, Sheriff. Go by yourself
or take Mr. Justin with you,— I'll lead you to him."
"Thank you for
speaking with us, Mr. Urial. You've at least put our hearts at rest for
the moment to know he's with good people who will take care of him.
We'll trust you and the Lord, Sir."
Mrs. Jessup sort
of shook her head like she was waking up.
"I'm aware of
the words I'm speaking but they don't come from me. It's the strangest
feeling. I don't think I can describe it, but I heard every word he
said. He just waved goodbye and went away."
"Thanks so much,
Mrs. Jessup, for letting us speak with Mr. Urial. It meant more to us
than you can know. Thank you, Ma'am. Call us, come visit. You're
welcome anytime. After all, you're going to be one of my nephew's
grandparents. You're part of our family now, Mrs. Jessup. If you need
help. If there's anything we can do for you, call the sheriff's station
and the’ll be a man here as soon as possible." assured Buck.
"Here's our
phone number, Mrs. Jessup." Dan Justin handed her a small piece of
paper, "We're practically neighbors. If you have an emergency, call
us. Gip and I can be here in a matter of minutes."
"Well, thank
you, gentlemen, and God bless you all. I appreciate knowing that. Being
an old woman by herself, out here, you never can tell what's gonna'
happen. I've lived for so long without anyone to call it will be a
luxury, but I promise not to take advantage. Thanks so much for
dropping by. It's nice to have company visit, and it certainly was nice
to be the center of attention of six fine looking young men." Mrs.
Jessup giggled like a school girl, and the men laughed at her
mischievousness. She waved goodbye to them with a tear in her eye.
Urial once again provided for her. She wasn't so afraid anymore. She
didn't feel quite so alone. She felt like she had family again. She
did, the men meant what they said.
The men were
quiet on the ride back to the Justin's place. They were lost in their
own thoughts waiting for Buck to say something. Sitting in the back
seat next to his dad, Gip could see his dad thinking deeply about
something. All of sudden a glow came over his face, he clamped his hand
on Gip's leg, looked at him, winked and smiled real big. Gip grabbed
his dad's hand and held it the rest of the way back.
"Gentlemen,
everyone in this automobile is sworn to secrecy about Mrs. Jessup. We
know Morgan did, indeed, see Waddie disappear; however, at this
point, I don't want him to know we know anything. Does everyone
understand?" All the men agreed and thought it was a good idea. "I
don't want him going out there to bother Mrs. Jessup. She wouldn't tell
him anything anyway. Mrs. Jessup can be invited to anything your
families want to include her in, and I hope you do. I plan to. Morgan
doesn't need to know who she is or how we know her, agreed?"
Once again the
men agreed and assured Buck Mrs. Jessup would certainly be included.
Buck pulled the patrol car onto the Justin's drive, and pulled around
in behind the house. The men got out and Jimmy Sue and Linda Sue came
out to greet them. They wanted to see if they had any word of Waddie's
whereabouts. Buck motioned everyone around, he wanted to tell the men
and two women something.
"Momma Sue,—
sweetheart," Buck smiled as he addressed the two ladies, "We'll
tell you what we found out, but I need to say something first to
everyone here. I don't want it getting out what we know. I know I can
count on all of you to keep it to yourselves. I don't even want the
three other deputies to find out what we know. They probably wouldn't
believe us anyway. I'm gonna' tell Doc Dyer and Lyle can tell Mrs.
Anderson 'cause I know if he don't she'll worry herself silly."
Buck went on to
tell Momma Sue and his wife, Linda Sue, where Waddie was and who he was
with. They marveled at Buck's telling of Waddie's disappearance and
speaking to Mr. Urial through Mrs. Jessup.
"Folks, when
Bubba comes we'll get our family together to have dinner for him to
thank him for his goodness and help. Could we do it out here at your
place Dan, Jimmy Sue, away from town and prying eyes? We'll all pitch
in. Maybe a pot luck dinner or homemade hamburgers. It don't have to be
nothin' fancy. I'll let you and Linda Sue coordinate that, Jimmy Sue,
if you will." Buck asked Dan and Jimmy Sue.
"Sure Buck, no
problem. Glad to have ya'll out." replied Dan.
"As far as
everyone else is concerned, Bubba is an old friend of mine. Let's keep
everybody thinking we're turning every leaf to find Waddie and we will
be. I don't want a word of what we know getting back to my brother,
Morgan. I ain't trying to be mean or nothing but I feel he needs to be
more concerned than we are at this point. There's not a lot of
punishment I could bring down on him, and I'm not sure I want to do
that to my brother. It's gonna' be hard enough on him losing his kid.
I'll be the one to decide what and when he should know anything. As far
as the community is concerned we're busting our butts to find our boy.
I wouldn't ordinarily ask this of you folks, but I think everyone
standing here knows why." Buck looked at them. Everyone did know why.
Jimmy Sue threw her arms around Buck's neck and hugged him.
"He'll come back
to us, big brother. I know he will." Jimmy Sue knew how much it was
hurting Buck.
"I know,
darlin,' but it weighs heavy on my heart he didn't run to us." Buck
said in sadness.
"I don't think
he had a choice, Buck," spoke up Don Rayborn, "he was probably scared
out of his wits, and Mr. Urial told him to run. I think we have to do
what he said, trust him and the Lord. I was never quite sure until
today. Now I have no doubts. I'll start talking to him regularly and
praying for Waddie. I think the kid needs all our prayers right
now."
"Yeah, brother,
I don't think it was because he didn't want to run to us. He was
instructed to get away for some reason we don't know about. My guess
is, it was to save his life. I think he's in good hands,— no,— the best
of hands. I'll sleep better tonight after visiting with Mrs. Jessup."
said Dan quietly.
"Yeah, Uncle
Buck," Gip spoke up. He'd been very quiet since the visit to Mrs.
Jessup’s, "I know my brother's safe. I only wish I could be with him.
He needs me,— but, most of all,— I need him." Gip started crying.
Buck scooped him up in his big arms to hold the boy and steal a kiss.
"Mom was right. She usually is. He'll come back to us safe and sound."
Buck stole another kiss and hugged Gip.
* * * * *
* *
At dinner that
evening Dan, and Gip recounted the entire day to Jimmy Sue who listened
in awe. She knew her husband and son wouldn't lie to her, but the
details she was hearing was nothing short of miraculous; however, it
fit right in with what Gip and Waddie had been telling the adults about
their angel. After dinner, over dessert and coffee, Dan was talking to
Jimmy Sue about Waddie. Gip finished his dessert and was clearing the
table for his mom while she enjoyed a moment with Dan.
"Buck has to
have Mrs. Anderson fill out all these state and county missing persons
information forms with detailed descriptions of the missing person.
Buck asked me if I remembered any outstanding scars or blemishes Waddie
has on his body. We've been swimming lots of times in the raw, and the
only thing I could remember was his wine colored birthmark near his
groin on his right leg in the form of a perfect cowboy boot."
Jimmy Sue
dropped her coffee cup and broke it. Gip saw the look on his mom's face
and knew his Aunt Linda probably told her about Waddie's birthmark.
"Oh, my God,— a
cowboy boot? Are you sure?" her voice rose as she asked her
husband. Gip stood behind his dad waving his arms like crazy to his
mother and pointed to his dad shaking his head back and forth to warn
her not to tell him what she knew. Jimmy Sue knew enough to trust her
kid. Gip ran over and started cleaning up the broken pieces of her cup.
"Can I get you
another cup of coffee, Mom?"
"Oh, yes,
sweetheart, I'd like that. That's thoughtful of you, hon,— thank you."
Jimmy Sue knew what Gip was doing and went along.
"Oh, by the way,
Mom,— remind me to tell you something later. I'm sorry, Dad, I didn't
mean to interrupt. You and dad go ahead and talk, Mom. I'll just finish
cleaning this up." Jimmy Sue knew that meant he'd explain later. She
was proud of her boy but her mind was racing like crazy.
"Something
wrong, dear, about Waddie's birthmark?" Dan asked.
"Nooo,— I was
just surprised,— at what a coincidence it was;— Waddie wanting to be a
cowboy and all. It's almost like he wears God's stamp telling him to be
a cowboy." she bluffed her way through almost sure her husband was
buying it.
"I never thought
of it that way, did you, Son?"
"Yes, Sir.
Waddie, Oatie, Clyde and me; we've talked about it. We're convinced."
Gip went on cleaning up the broken cup. He swept up the pieces with a
broom and dust pan.
"Darlin,' that
was a great meal. Thank you." said Dan leaning over, and kissing his
wife.
"Yeah, Mom, it
was great! You got a real good scald on that one." Gip and his
parents shared a laugh. Gip had heard his granddad Claymore say that to
grandma Claymore after she fixed a fine meal.
"Well, Son, we'd
better be getting out and put up the stock for the night." Dan said to
Gip.
"It's early,
Dad. That was such a fine meal mom fixed tonight, would you mind
waiting a little bit while I help mom with the dishes? Then I'll go out
with you soon's I finish."
"No,— not at
all. That's thoughtful of you, Son. I've got a couple of things to do
out there. I'll be out there,— come on out when you get done. I'll be
waiting for you." Dan smiled, proud of his boy for wanting to help his
mom. Gip went to his dad and hugged him.
"Thanks, Dad.
She looks a little tired tonight, don't chu' think?" Gip winked at his
dad.
"No, Son,— she
always looks beautiful to me."
That got Dan a
hug and a kiss from his wife.
"We won't be
long, hon, there's not that much to clean up." Jimmy Sue told Dan as he
was going out the back door.
Gip had all
ready started putting the hot water and soap in the sink for his mom.
She walked over, put her arms around him, and gently kissed him on his
forehead.
"Thanks, Mom, I
needed that. Damn near messed my pants the minute I knew you put two
and two together. Thanks for trusting me, Mom. I'll tell you all I can."
"Do you mean to
tell me Waddie is Linda Sue and Buck's son?"
Gip nodded his
head 'yes' to his mother as a tear rolled down his cheek.
"And, that's the
miracle he'll bring the two of them." She took Gip in her arms and
wept. Gip wanted to cry, too, but he was going to be strong and be a
man for his mother. She felt him comforting her and knew her boy was
growing up.
"And, you and
Waddie have known for almost four years,— well, since Buck and Linda
Sue got married?" she asked quietly.
"Yes, um. Except
Mr. Urial told Waddie the day we moved in here. So he's known for
almost five years." he replied.
"That poor kid.
What he's gone through, but on the other hand, it's just too wonderful
for words, Gip. It truly is a miracle. Can you imagine when they find
out. When will they find out?"
"You can't tell
them, Mom. Neither can Waddie, Doc Dyer, Aunt Agatha or me."
"They know?"
Jimmy Sue asked in amazement.
"Yes, Ma'am. I
can't tell you everything tonight, but I promise I'll make time to help
you tomorrow with any project you wanna' get done. I'll answer all your
questions I can at that time. I can fill you in on a few while we clean
the dishes."
"Well, that's
enough for me to digest tonight, hon. Look at me, I'm still shaking. I
can't believe it. I thought he was Morgan's son, but he always looked
so much like Buck."
Gip gave his
mother a brief overview of the situation and told her why she couldn't
say anything to Linda Sue or Buck. Waddie was going to come live with
them for a while until Linda Sue discovers he's her son. Then she has
to tell her husband the truth.
"When is all
this to come about?"
"Very soon, Mom,
after Waddie gets back and starts living with us."
They finished
the dishes and Gip put away the last dish in the cupboard. His mother
took him in her arms again to hold him, and kissed him on the cheek.
"You're growing
up too fast, Gip. You're almost a young man. No, I take that back,— you
are a young man. This year there will be major changes in your body I
know your dad has all ready talked with you about. I've started to see
them happen all ready. I guess I'm selfish. I want you to remain my
little boy. but I know I have to let you grow up. I love you so much,
Gip. Your dad and I are so proud of you."
"Mom, there's a
part of me that's always gonna' be your little boy. I don't never
wanna' loose touch with the little boy inside of me. He'll always be
there for you, Mom."
Jimmy Sue
started crying again as Gip was comforting her and kissing her on the
cheek. Dan walked in the back door and saw Gip holding Jimmy Sue. He
smiled at the two of them.
"Uuh,— am I
interrupting something?"
"No, hon. I's
just thanking Gip for helping me, and I insisted on holding my little
boy one more time. He's growing up so fast, I'm gonna' turn around and
tomorrow he'll be a man."
"I stopped
thinking of him as a boy a while ago, darlin.' I started treating him
like a young man."
"I'm ready, if
you are, Dad. Let's go do it." Gip winked at his dad and rolled his
eyes behind his mom's back like, 'I know you understand, Dad. We have
to humor them sometimes.'
"Your men'll be
back in a bit, darlin.' Love you."
"Love you both."
Jimmy Sue said as they were going out the door.
Dan walked with
his arm around his son to the barn, and stole a kiss on the way.
"Want your old
man to stop stealing kisses, now that you're a young man?"
"You better not,
Dad. You'll have one long faced, sad ass'ed puppy wander'n around here
not knowing which way to go. I depend on you stealing at least a couple
of kisses every evening to let me know you love me. I ain't never
gonna' be too old for my old man to steal a kiss from me. Lord knows
I've stolen enough from you. Seems to me like it's only fair." Gip said
in all seriousness to his dad. Dan laughed and hugged him tighter.
"I never was a
kiss'n bandit until that big uncle of yours walked into our lives. My
life ain't been the same since. Ain't complaining none. My brother
taught me some things about love'n I would've never known. Your
mother's love and my love for her has grown more and more because of
things I've learned from that big man. I'm glad he came into our lives.
We're the richer for loving him."
"Yeah,— well,—
he and my brother have taught me many things. One of them is not to be
afraid to tell my old man I love him, and I'm damn proud of him. Waddie
and I have the best dad in these, here, parts."
The two men
finished their chores and stood together behind the new barn in the
warm summer air under a full moon. It was a beautiful early summer
night with fireflies lighting up the night like bejeweled fairies
flitting about. Dan took Gip into his arms and held his boy close. Gip
looked up, found his dad's mouth and gently brushed his lips across
Dan's as an invitation. Gip was surprised he didn't have to asked
twice. His dad was more than ready to welcome this young man, his son,
into manhood. It was a kiss filled with the love a father has for his
beloved son and his son returned his love to him in kind. They needed
to feel this closeness for sometime. It was a lingering, gentle kiss of
passion. A passion between a father and son that had come a long way.
It hadn't been easy for Gip and Dan to break down fences, walls, and
barriers until this moment, this communication became possible and
welled to the surface within them. It was something that didn't just
happen. They worked toward this goal of closeness. They spoke of it
many times. They knew, because of their hard work to trust and
love each other unconditionally, they were spiraling into each other.
They kissed
again. A tender kiss of promise. A promise to always love and be there
for each other. No words needed to be spoken. Gip wasn't shy and didn't
hold back from his dad. They finally broke; however, Dan continued to
hold his boy and look into his eyes, gently stealing a kiss from him,
from time to time.
"Thanks, Dad. I
needed that from you tonight. I've been wanting it for months, but the
time wasn't right. You couldn't have picked a better night. I love you
so much, Dad. I'm so proud of you."
"You can thank
the sheriff for that, Son. I would’ve never been able to do that for us
if Buck hadn't talked to me by the hour and taught me about the ways of
love. Things my old man should have taught me years ago but never did.
He didn't know how to love himself. Somehow, I felt you needed some
love'n from your old man tonight. And, to tell the truth, your old man
was ripe for your offer. I been wait'n for it, Son. Guess you felt I
could use a little love'n myself tonight. Something happen this evening
between you and your ma you can't talk to me about, but you need my
love right now more'n ever. You don't know how long I've wanted to show
my love for you with a kiss like that, Gip. Look at me."
Dan looked down
at his hard dick in his pants. Gip looked at his own, they looked at
each other, and the two men laughed as they hugged each other again.
They started walking slowly towards the house, arms around each other,
holding each other tight.
"You're right,
Dad. Something did happen tonight I can't tell you about, but soon I'll
be able to tell you everything, I promise. Don't feel left out, Dad. It
will thrill you beyond your wildest dreams."
"Is it the
miracle Waddie will bring to Buck?"
"Yes, Sir." Gip
replied softly.
"It's okay, Son.
Don't fret. I all ready know. Buck told me today Ed Bloomquist said
Judy told him Morgan bought Waddie from some nurses at the Methodist
Hospital in Dallas. Morgan can't have kids. I'm the only one Buck told.
I don't think he plans to tell your Aunt Linda either. It all came
together for me in the car on the way back from Mrs. Jessup’s. Remember
when I grabbed your leg. That was the moment I figured it out. I was
trying to think what the miracle could be? It had to include Buck,
Waddie, and Linda Sue.
I started with
what clues I had; Morgan bought Waddie from some nurses at the
Methodist hospital; your Aunt Linda worked in Dallas all through the
war and lived with your Aunt Agatha, whose daughter was a nurse at the
Methodist hospital. Waddie had to be born and purchased by Morgan
almost exactly nine months after Buck left for the war. Your Aunt
Agatha figured out who Waddie really was at Buck and Linda's wedding. I
remember her telling Buck and Linda Sue, Waddie would provide them with
a great miracle. Too many coincidence's not to add up to something.
Linda Sue got pregnant by Buck before he left for the war, she had his
baby, gave it up for adoption, but I can't figure out the reason.
Waddie is Buck
and Linda Sue's son. Linda Sue told your mom about her baby's
birthmark. She put two and two together tonight, you very maturely shut
her up, and covered for her like a Russian spy. Did a damn good job,
too. I almost couldn't keep from laughing, but I was proud of you.
That's why I had to give you that kiss tonight. I told her the truth,
Son. I don't think of you as a boy no more. I think of you as a young
man." Gip turned to his dad and started crying. Dan took him in his
arms to comfort him.
"I hope you
don't never get too old to come to your old man for comfort, Son, and
never be ashamed to cry in his arms."
"I won't, Dad,
but I don't know if'n I should confirm your deduction. Just promise me
you won't tell Uncle Buck or Aunt Linda what you've discovered. You
can't dad. It's not time for them to know. It will be soon, and then I
can tell you a lot more. I know I can trust you."
"I won't say a
word, but Mr. Urial and you today hit the nail on the head. It will be
the miracle that will change Buck and Linda Sue's lives. I always
thought Buck and Waddie looked too damn much alike right down to their
dicks; but, you know what? I think Waddie's gonna' have the edge on his
old man in the dick department."
"I do, too, Dad.
I — "
Dan felt Gip
jump like something frightened him. Gip was staring over Dan's
shoulder. Dan turned and saw the light of the angel himself as he
nodded for Gip to confirm his dad's suspicions. Gip waved and
smiled. Mr. Urial, raised one hand, smiled back and
disappeared. Dan had a funny look on his face.
"I gotta' get to
the house, Son, I think I just messed in my pants." Gip started
laughing at his Dad as he ran as fast as he could to the back door. He
remembered having the same reaction the first time he saw Mr. Urial.
Waddie warned him. He'd come to you at the damnedest times and scare
the crap out of you. Gip was still laughing as he walked in the back
door of the house. His mother look puzzled at what her two men were up
to. Gip went to his mother, and held her, still laughing. A little
while later, Dan came back into the room wearing a clean pair of jeans.
He was white as a sheet with a funny look on his face. Gip took one
look at his dad and couldn't contain himself. He was rolling on the
couch laughing. Dan went over and started tickling him.
"Would someone
please tell me what's going on?" Jimmy Sue was laughing herself. "Dan,
you look like you've just seen a ghost."
That really set
Dan and Gip off. They were holding each other laughing.
"Guess you might
say that, hon." Dan laughed again and set Gip off in another round of
giggles.
"Dad messed in
his pants, Mom. Mr. Urial appeared to us on the way back from the barn.
Right after Dad told me he all ready knew. I wasn't going to confirm
his suspicions, but Mr. Urial told me it was all right. I
should've known better than to ever underestimate my old man. Not much
gets by him. That's why Waddie and I have to be good boys. Our little
act only confirmed what he figured out today when he found out from
Uncle Buck, Morgan bought Waddie."
Jimmy Sue went
to Dan and cried in his arms and apologized to him. He assured her
there was no apology necessary. He wouldn't have wanted her to react
any other way than the way she did. He was proud of her and proud of
his son. That night the Justins joined hands before going to bed and
gave thanks for a miracle that was yet to come. They prayed for their
other son who they knew was under the protection of their Lord. Give
him courage and strength to heal quickly and come home to them. The Old
Man took their prayer himself, he was as proud of Gip as his parents
were.
* * * * * * *
Bubba woke up
holding a pretty little man with a bruised face and one Hell of a black
eye. He'd taken the boy to his heart in only one night. A brave, loving
little man who didn't cry out once last night when he cleaned him real
good. Bubba tried to be gentle but the tears ran down his big face
every time he cleaned another area of shredded flesh on the boy's butt.
Waddie stirred, opened his eyes, and looked into the biggest, kindest,
dark brown eyes he'd ever seen. He reached up with his head and kissed
Bubba gently on the mouth. Bubba returned it with all the gentleness of
a saint.
"Good morning,
my big, handsome Grizzly bear." Waddie said softly. Bubba laughed.
"Oh, so, now,
this morning, I'm handsome, huh, little buddy?" Bubba stole a kiss
behind Waddie's ear.
"Hell, Bubba!
You're the type man who grows on you. Y'ain't too impressed with 'em
when ya' first meet 'em, but after you get to know 'em a little bit,
they're like a pretty fly'er, they bloom right before your eyes. Now
that I slept in your big arms, felt your love and warmth surround me,
made me feel safer than I've felt in months, and looked into those
beautiful eyes of yours, I see what I missed the first time I looked.
The face of a strong, good hearted, handsome, brown eyed man." Waddie
smiled, reached up, stole another kiss from Bubba and giggled. Bubba
threw his head back and enjoyed a good laugh.
"Yeah, no doubt
about it. You're Buck Claymore's boy. Well,— what about below my neck?"
he grinned wickedly at Waddie.
"Aww, Hell,
Bubba! That's like a surprise package you open on Christmas morning.
You know it's got a pretty bow on it, you think it might be something
special, but nine times out of ten it's clothes. Then one Christmas you
open that surprise package and there's the cutest, prettiest, damn
puppy you ever did see underneath all that wrap'n. That's you, Bubba,
the prettiest, damn 'teddy bear' a kid could ever hope for." Bubba
stopped smiling, looked into Waddie's dark blue eyes for a minute, and
almost lost it.
"You mean that,
don't cha'?" Bubba asked without emotion.
"All my heart,
big man." Waddie said with love. Bubba leaned toward Waddie, he met him
half-way, threw his arms around Bubba's neck and pulled him into a kiss
that was a bit more than brotherly. Both men got roaring hard. Harder
than their morning piss-hards.
"You really love
me that much, big man?" Waddie moved against Bubba's big dick.
"Times ten,
sweet baby." Bubba stole another kiss. "We gotta' get up, get dressed,
and hit the road. Louise washed your clothes last night. I gotta' go
pick 'em up and get you dressed. Feel any better this morning, angel?"
"With the dirty
thoughts running through my mind about the nasty things I could do with
my teddy bear, I don't think I could pass for an angel, big man." Bubba
just hooted.
"Go on with ya,'
you're gonna' get us both into trouble."
"I was kinda
hoping I would." Waddie giggled and Bubba laughed.
"Is that how
much you love me down there, little buddy?"
"Times a
hunner't." replied Waddie with a wicked grin.
"That 'ud be
enough to make me happy for a night, young'un. We get chu' feeling a
little better, I just might find out what nasty things you had in mind
for your big teddy bear."
"Well, Bubba,"
Waddie said stretching and yawning, "I guaran-damn-tee ya' it wouldn't
be just a picnic." Waddie winked at Bubba. He roared with
laughter.
"More like a
prick-nic, huh, little buddy?"
"Prick-nic?"
Waddie giggled, "I like that, Bubba. Close enough!" Both men fell out
laughing and hugged each other.
They got up,
Waddie was sore, but able to walk unassisted. They went to the bath
room with roaring hard-ons and decided not to even try for the toilet.
They stood in front of the tub/shower.
"You need help
holding that big thing, Bubba?" Bubba roared.
"How 'bout chu,
cowboy? That damn thing ain't no toothpick."
"Gets awful
heavy, Bubba." Waddie complained, "I know yours must." Bubba reached
down, gently grabbed Waddie's dick, Waddie reached over, and took hold
of Bubba's manhood. Immediately they started pissing together at the
same time.
"Fuck!" said
Waddie leaning back just a little, "now this is the way two buddies
should take a morning piss, right, big man?"
"Can't gainsay
that, young'un. Feels mighty fine. Best piss I've taken in a looong
time." They finished and shook each other to get the last bit out.
Except Bubba cheated and shook Waddie's a couple more times than
socially called for. Waddie just giggled. Bubba put the lid down on the
toilet and sat down.
"Turn your
backside to old Bubba. Lemme' take a look." Waddie did and Bubba looked
him over good. He turned Waddie around and looked closely at his
face.
"You know what?
I don't think you're gonna' have much more bleeding. We'll put some
more ointment on you after we shower, and you can lay across the bed
while I get your clothes. I don't see any problems with wearing
your clean levis. Is it still real sore?"
"Not as bad as
it was, Bubba. I think that stuff takes a lot of the pain away. Sure
appreciate you taking such good care of me. Wish I could do something
for you." Waddie looked Bubba straight in the eye and smiled. Bubba
didn't miss his meaning for a minute.
"What if I said,
if you're feeling better this evening,— ?"
"Better not!
Make me ole dick hard all day." replied Waddie with a wink. Bubba
roared with laughter.
"Damn, you make
me laugh, Waddie. You make my old heart feel good. Let's get in the
shower, cowboy."
They showered,
and Bubba was again supremely gentle with Waddie. It hurt some but not
as bad as the night before. Waddie kept looking at Bubba's beautiful
dick. It reminded him of Ed's except it was quite a bit bigger than
Ed's. He thought it might present a challenge, but he was so confident
now, with a little over a year and a half good, solid practice under
Coach Ed, he felt he was ready for the big leagues.
'Naww,' he
thought to himself. 'I could do it. Swallow that sucker so fast it'ud
make that big bear's head spin. I'd wrestle him to the floor, him just
a' yell'n and a' holler'n;— steal me some big bear honey!' Waddie got
roaring hard thinking dirty thoughts to himself and giggled. Bubba
didn't miss the giggle and saw Waddie's dick sticking straight out in
front of him.
"Stop that!
Ain't no fair think'n dirty thoughts 'bout chur' buddy less'n you share
'em." Waddie smiled his impish grin and giggled.
"Be glad to
share that one with ya,' big bear, if'n I'm feeling better this
evening,..." They shared a laugh.
"I gotta' be
careful with you, cowboy. Urial warned me about chu'."
"He did?
What'd he say?"
"Told me you'd
steal my heart quicker'n a fat lady eats a donut."
"Oh, Hell,... I
can do it quicker n'at! Won't give it back, neither."
They both roared with laughter with each other.
Bubba gently
toweled Waddie dry then dried himself. Waddie dried Bubba's big back
for him. Bubba laid him across the bed, and put more ointment on him;
front and rear. Waddie didn't wince like he did last night. The stuff
was working. Bubba threw a sheet over Waddie, and told him to take a
nap, he'd be back in a minute with his clothes.
Bubba walked
over to the diner. The sun was just coming up over the badlands. It
looked like it was gonna' be a beautiful day. He walked in and all the
truckers were there from last night. There were a few more he
knew. He thanked all of them for their kindness and another six slipped
him another roll of bills for the boy. Bubba almost cried when he
hugged Red Dog.
"You guys are
the best. I'll have him over here in a minute. Save us a couple of
seats."
Louise pulled a
double shift 'cause the new girl didn't show. She no sooner got home,
kicked off her shoes when the owner caller her back in. She walked over
and handed Bubba the bag of Waddie's clothes. Bubba kissed her on the
cheek and thanked her. She blushed like a school girl, and that was
enough to send the truckers into major hoots and hollers. Bubba left
and took Waddie's clothes back to the motel. Bubba asked Waddie if he
could dress himself while he went to pay Sid for the room and give him
the key. Waddie told him he could and was ready when Bubba got back. He
carried Bubba's blanket and his shaving kit to the truck for him. Bubba
threw the stuff up in the sleeper behind the cab of the truck, and the
two men walked slowly to the diner. They walked in to fifteen or twenty
good looking truckers all sitting around a big table with a couple
seats saved for them. Bubba introduced Waddie all around and he shook
every hand. They were all impressed he was a little gentleman.
"Well, he should
be, he's Buck Claymore's boy." they allowed.
Bubba ordered
breakfast for the two of them. Waddie was happy he did. He didn't know
what he wanted, and Bubba was good at that sort of thing. Lousie
brought him some more orange juice and milk, scrambled eggs, sausage,
hash browns, biscuits and gravy. She brought Bubba his favorite. A side
order of grits and red eye gravy. Grits with a clear reddish gravy
poured over them, made with ham or pork chop drippings, water and a
shot of bourbon. It would sure get your eyes open. Ninety-five percent
of the alcohol was burned off in making the gravy,— but damn,— the
taste was a little bit of heaven. Bubba offered Waddie a taste and he
tried it. His eyes lit up like a pin ball machine that just went 'tilt.'
"What 'du ya'
think, young'un?" Bubba asked. Waddie smiled real big at Bubba.
"I think you
better order yourself another help'n, good buddy." The men laughed at
the look on Bubba's face and Waddie's impertinence with his running
buddy.
"He's Buck's
son, fer damn sure, Bubba! Ain't no doubt in my mind!" said one of the
good looking truckers.
Bubba motioned
to Louise to bring him another. She smiled, and turned in the order.
"Waddie talked
to all the truckers. They were amazed he remembered every one of their
names and was respectful to add 'Mister' in front of every name. He had
them eating out of his hand. He made a brief 'thank you' to all of them
for their kindness and generosity. He would never forget them. They all
were in love with Waddie when he and Bubba got up to leave. The all
hated to see Bubba pull out so early.
Bubba left
Louise another ten dollar tip. Waddie hugged and thanked her for
washing his clothes. He hoped to see her again sometime under better
circumstances. She hoped so, too. Louise spoke to Bubba.
"When you be
back through, sugar?"
"Not real sure
but probably in about five days. I'll stop by, have a bite and let
cha'll know how our cowboy's doing."
"We'd all
'preciate that, Bubba." Lousie gave him a kiss on the cheek. Bubba
blushed, and once again the truckers were a' hoot'n and holler'n at
Bubba and Louise. Waddie giggled, too. She just smiled and wave them
away with her hand.
* * * * * * *
Two days later
Mrs. Anderson had a parcel on her desk with two ordinary rolls of film
and a hand written note.
Dear Sheriff
Claymore,
I picked up your
Godson, Waddie, on the interstate two days ago. He was passed out,
laying by the side of the road. He'd lost a lot of blood. He was almost
dead, Sir. He suffered a bad beating, and had facial wounds he said his
dad done to him. He was in pretty bad shape, Sir. I took him to a
truck stop and fed him. A waitress friend of mine cleaned his clothes.
I washed and medicated his wounds. He cried himself to sleep in my arms.
I didn't stop
for him by chance, Sheriff. A friend of ours, Urial, told me he'd be
there and to stop for him. Urial is with him, and you don't need to be
afraid for him. I though you might need these photos of his wounds to
get him away from his dad when he's ready to come home. I'll take care
of him for several days. I've been told to take him to some good
men who will see he's cared for. Waddie's healing nicely and not
as sore as he was. To be honest, Sheriff, I don't want to let him go.
He's one Hell of a fine, little running buddy, and I've come to love
him like a little brother in a short period of time. You may contact me
through the following phone number, or I'll stop by your office on my
way back through in five days.
Please
understand, I can't and won't tell you where he is. No disrespect
intended, Sheriff, but I'm under orders from a higher authority. I know
you understand anyway, Sir. The folks I'm taking him to were
recommended by Urial. They’re two of the finest men I’ve ever known and
come from one of the finest families in Texas. You wouldn't believe me
if I was to tell you who they are, but you'll find out soon enough. I
have known and loved them myself for years. They're like family to me.
They're good people and will take good care of his wounds and help to
mend his heart.
Waddie's a fine
young man, Sheriff, one of the best I've run into in a long time.
Perhaps the greatest compliment I could give the boy is, I only wish he
was my son. You might want to seriously consider adopting him if you
and your wife have room. He's stolen my heart, Sheriff Claymore,
but I ain't real sure I want it back.
Yours truly,
Hershel Franz
"Bubba" Rio Grande
Trucking Co. (phone number...
)
Buck read the
letter in private in his office with his door closed. He sat there for
fifteen minutes weeping into a handkerchief. At least he knew Waddie
was in good hands, and they were up-front with him. He could deal with
that. He wouldn't press Bubba when he dropped by. He'd shake his hand,
give him a big hug, offer him a pull off his hip flask, take him home
for dinner, have him meet his family, and treat him like a valued
friend. 'He was, indeed, a valued friend,' thought Buck. 'He was kind
to my boy.'
'Your boy,
Buck?' he asked himself. ‘Damn it! I never wanted anything so bad in my
life than for Waddie to be my boy; my son.' he thought. 'Is that fair
to your brother?' he asked himself. 'My brother's done had his chance,
and he fucked it up royally. Waddie ain't his no more'n he's mine. My
brother lied to me.' Buck reasoned to himself.
Waddie wasn't
Morgan's kid and Buck didn't keep much truck with folks who went around
buying children. Then Buck thought about how many sweet, wonderful
children there might be out there, somewhere, just like Waddie, needing
love, a home and didn't have one. Damn it, he'd buy them all if he
could and give them a good home.
'God forgive
me,' he prayed silently, 'I know it's wrong for me to think about
profiting from my brother's misdeed, but ain't I been better to the boy
than my brother, Lord? I know it ain’t mine to judge, Lord, but I just
know I have to love him more'n my brother, Sir. I'd never do that to
that beautiful boy. I'd never have to. He's a damn good kid.'
He took the
photos to Dr. Dyer who developed them immediately, and Buck was with
him in his basement darkroom when they came out. Doctor Dyers was
clucking his tongue like he couldn't believe what Morgan did to the
boy, but when the pictures of Waddie's face with Morgan's hand print
became clearly visible, tears began to fall from his eyes.
"Be kind to the
man who was good and thoughtful enough to send us these photos,
Sheriff. This is enough evidence for me to make a strong recommendation
to have Judge Potter give us authorization to remove Waddie from the
Lovejoy's home. I'll write up the recommendation tonight and have it on
your desk first thing in the morning." said Dr. Dyer.
"Have you seen
worse, Doc?" Buck asked with no emotion.
"No, Buck, I
haven't. Now I know why Waddie wouldn't let me see his previous
beatings. He knew I'd insist on removing him." replied Dr. Dyer.
"Why do you
think he stayed this long, Doctor?"
"Love. He loves
Morgan so much he kept hoping he'd see the light and come to love and
trust him like he needed. Waddie has a community of folks who love him,
but it's not the same as getting it from the one you need it from. All
the world could line up to tell that boy what a good, loving and
trustworthy kid he was, but if he doesn't hear it from the one who
means the most to him,— he won't hear them. By the same token, to
be told you're a liar, and a bad boy by the main person in your life
can be devastating."
"Did you know he
ain't Morgan or Judy's child?"
"Yes, Buck, I've
known for sometime."
"How did you
know, Doc?"
"I'm Morgan's
doctor, too. I did a sperm count on him several years ago, and he's
incapable of having children. I never saw Judy pregnant after their
wedding, and I'm the only doctor in town. Waddie's birth certificate
had to be a fake."
"I wonder who
his real parents were? Do you think we should try'n find out?"
"As much as that
boy loves you, Dan, Gip, Oatie and Clyde to say nothing of an entire
community who loves him. Do you think that would be wise? I don't
know about you, but I'm not real sure I could give him up. I
think that much of the boy."
"I see your
point, Doc. 'Sides, I don't think I could give him up any more'n you
can. I'm his Godfather and I take the job seriously. We were told the
Big Man wants him to live with Dan, Gip and Jimmy Sue. That kinda hurt
me a little."
"Don't let it,
Buck. I never was a believer until I met Waddie, Gip and you. I've seen
enough and witnessed enough I've come to believe strongly. I believe
you have to wait and see what God has planned. Wasn't there something
about a miracle that was suppose to happen?"
"Yeah, Doc. I've
heard it from several different sources, even Mr. Urial, our angel told
me, but I can't figure it out, neither can Linda Sue. Maybe that's the
miracle part. By the way, I ain't gonna' tell anyone about Waddie being
bought on the black market, not even my wife. I think that's something
only a few people need to know right now. What do you think?"
"Absolutely! I
couldn't agree more. The less said the better, and you know you can
count on me not saying a word. Let's take this one step at
a time, and make sure we don't make any mistakes for Waddie's
sake. Right now, let's get the order from the judge so we can
tell Waddie it's safe for him to come home when he’s ready. Other than
missing a part of my life in that boy, I think this vacation away from
us may be the best for all concerned. It'll give tempers around here
time to cool down and Waddie a chance to heal." said Dr. Dyer.
"I've been
thinking the same thing, but his and Gip's tenth birthdays are coming
up in several weeks, and it would break my heart if he weren't here."
"You could
always talk to his brother. I know Gip well enough, and I know how much
he loves Waddie. He'd postpone his birthday in a minute, so he could
celebrate his with his brother."
"That's a
thought. It's just..."
Doc Dyer put his
arms around his big friend, and hugged him as Buck lost it for a minute.
* * * * * * *
Morgan reached
the bottom. He could barely pull himself out of bed in the mornings to
go to work. Life didn't mean much to him anymore. For the first time in
ten years he had to admit to himself he had strangers living in his
house. He realized how little they cared about him to do that to him.
He couldn't put all the blame on them. He could've tried to give his
son the benefit of the doubt, or done something simple like alternating
punishment like Waddie suggested. He contracted with Dan and Gip to pay
Gip two bucks a day to care for his stock while on his train runs. They
agreed. He wouldn't speak to Judy or Dorothy which only added to his
feelings of loneliness. Willie wasn't home. At least Morgan didn't have
to kick his ass out. He'd been accepted as a rookie on a minor league
baseball team. For all purposes, Willie had left home. The only time
he'd be around was when he came home to visit his mother.
Buck invited his
buddy, Audey Murphy, to visit several times, and he finally did. By
accident, Audey saw Dorothy in town one day and wanted to meet her.
Buck wasn't one to talk bad about anyone, so he introduced them. They
dated off and on for almost a year. To everyone's shock and surprise,
he asked Dorothy to marry him. She turned him down. Unknown to
everyone, she'd been seeing a rough neck oil field rigger from Lubbock
and married him within six weeks of turning Murphy down. God saved a
good man the day she turned Murphy down. Thank God for unanswered
prayers.
Folks said the
old saying, 'Water seeks it's own level' was true enough; especially
where Dorothy and her new husband "oil field Mike" were concerned. He
was Polish by decent. His last name was Morta. Waddie
managed to level Buck, Dan and the entire family with laughter at
dinner one evening by referring to him as “Rigger Morta,” and insisting
he was dead from the neck up. He’d have to be to marry Dorothy.
He was a dumb, insensitive, opinionated, loud mouth, crude son of a
bitch. His picture was in the dictionary under the term " stupid red
neck bastard." He was that and more. He met his match with Dorothy; a
pathological liar. Not being the sharpest knife in the drawer, oil
field Mike discovered too late Dorothy's hidden charms. It took him two
kids to do it, but what do you want? Between him and Dorothy they
didn't have one complete brain. Both of them shipped out without a full
seabag. By the time Dorothy popped out oil field Mike's second
no-necked monster, he was so hooked on the sex and the love/hate
relationship they developed he couldn't pull away. It was a
symbiotic, pathological addiction of the first magnitude. They
successfully created a living Hell for each other. They dearly loved
hating each other and hated themselves for loving each other. A
marriage truly made in the shade of hades.
Waddie wished,
many times, 'Rigger Morta' was dead from the waste down as well.
They had eight screaming little monsters, each one louder and more mean
spirited than the next. They gave the term 'survival of the fittest,'
new dimensions and 'devil's spawn' was not nearly descriptive enough.
Anyone who was around them for any length of time were convinced that
at least six of them would end up in prison or on a mental ward.
Oil field Mike
made an effort to love his kids by carefully instructing them in all
his narrow minded, bigoted, opinions and prejudices. He encouraged
their meanness and physical acts of violence on each other as
toughening them up for the hard world out there. Anything that wasn't
the roughest, toughest, kick-ass sport or male image was "queer" or
"fucking homo." If one of the kids came to him because another one beat
the crap out of him oil field Mike would yell at the kid and call him a
'homo,' a 'sissy,' or worse. He would threaten the kid with his belt if
he came crying to him again. Learn to take care of his own problems!
The kids quickly learned they were on their own. The one who had the
crap beat out of him would patiently wait, would sneak up behind the
bigger one with a two by four, and lay him out cold. Oil field Mike
would then laugh at the bigger one for crying. It was dog eat dog.
Aside from all that oil field Mike was a lovely man.
Dorothy was
virtually out of Morgan's world within months of losing Waddie. The
only person left was Judy. Morgan slept in Waddie's room and used his
bathroom. He opened Willie's room to air it out from the still
lingering fragrance of Ms. Pearl's cologne. Hers was the gift that kept
on giving. He removed the lock from the door, so Willie could never
lock it again. Waddie had been gone about two weeks when Morgan finally
sat down to dinner opposite Judy one night.
"Well, Morgan,
you haven't spoken more'n a couple of words in two weeks. What do ya’
want me to do? I don't have any excuses for what I done, but neither am
I gonna' crawl on my belly to make up to you. So make up your mind what
you want me to do. You tell me what you want and I'll do it. You want a
divorce? You want me to leave? I can go live with my sister for a
while, but you may as well know, I'm pregnant." Morgan didn't react. At
that point nothing Judy could tell him would surprise him. He couldn't
feel more defeated. The announcement to him of her pregnancy was only a
straw in the stack.
"Whose child is
it?" he asked with no emotion.
"I can't say for
sure. I don't think it's Ed's, but I don't really know. It might be."
Morgan just
nodded.
"Ain't chu'
angry with Ed?" asked Judy.
"Naw,—
disappointed, but not angry. He's a man. You offered to sell it;— he
bought it. I probably would've done the same thing. Besides, Ed was the
only one to get through to me. He told me the truth no matter
what it might cost him. I guess Waddie beat you again. Ed loved Waddie
a Hell of a lot more'n anything he felt for you. If a man gets an offer
for easy sex put in front of him, chances are better’n fifty-fifty he's
gonna' take it. At least Ed had the balls to stand up to me, tell me
the truth, when I wouldn't believe no one else. Can't fault a man for
that. He ain't been back to visit you since, but he's asked every day
if there's been any word from Waddie."
Judy didn't ask
how Morgan knew Ed hadn't been back. Morgan was gone, two, sometimes
three, nights a week. She was there by herself, but she had a feeling
she was being watched.
"We ain't living
like husband and wife no more." Judy shot at Morgan.
"We never
did.” Morgan laughed at her. “You had your family and I had mine,
but you couldn't be happy with that. You had to destroy mine. You and
your two half-wit kids."
"They must've
had some wits,— they made a fool out of you."
Morgan didn't
get mad, he just sat there numb. Judy had no sense whatsoever about
sparing another person’s feelings. He never realized until that moment
what hard core trash she really was. He began to see what Waddie must
have gone through those first five years of being under her and her
kid's domination. God forgive him he couldn't see what they, and in
turn, he was doing to the boy.
"Your family?
That kid kept calling me a bitch every time I tried to get him to do
something. He'd refuse and tell me to get my 'dumb' son to do it. Said
he was too damn busy. He'd laugh at me an tell me not to bother him by
asking again. Said he had better things to do than play servant to a
bitch and her ignorant children. He called me a bitch, Morgan." Judy
yelled in anger.
"Well, I learned
the hard way,— the kid never lies. I told you when he came back you
weren't to tell him to do nothing. You knew that! You didn’t
listen to me, you kept trying to order him around. I agreed before he
came back to live with me he didn't have to answer to you. Was
that why you went along with Willie and lied to me about Waddie?"
Judy didn’t
answer. Morgan knew she wouldn’t. He didn’t care, he knew
that was the reason. They sat there for some time not wanting to look
at each other. Morgan was through with his dinner, got up from the
table with his plate, utensils, and glass to take them to the kitchen
sink. He turned to walk out of the room.
"You didn't
answer my question, Morgan. What do you want?"
"I don't know
what I want. You've left me with nothing. Nothing from nothing leaves
nothing. I don't plan to sleep with you anymore. You disgust me. I
don't know why I ever married you. You never were very pretty, and you
come from the worst kind of white trash. But, you better listen to me
this time,— while you live under my roof and still have my name, you'll
never get fucked by another man in my house again or I'll kill you.
Pure and simple. I'll take my double barrel shotgun and blow your
Goddamn head off. I have nothing left to lose. After what you put me
through and the people I know in this community; my brother's the
sheriff, and the Judge is my second cousin; I'd get off on probation
for manslaughter.
You wanna' be a
lying whore, a slut,— do it own your own time. Divorce me, get out of
my life, then you can have men line up to fuck you silly if you want
to. I don't give a damn what chu' do after you leave here, but this is
a small town, Judy, not Ft. Worth, Dallas, Austin or Houston. Everybody
knows who's sleeping around. I won't be made a fool of again by you or
anybody. You only have to remember one thing while you're here; you
wanna' live, you'll never fuck a man again on my property. If I come
home and find out you did, I won't bother to discuss it with you. I'll
get my gun and unload both barrels in your face.
I think the
question is, what do you want, Judy? You have nothing left in this
house. It isn't yours. You signed a prenuptial agreement. What was mine
before marriage remains totally mine afterward. You leave with nothing.
You won’t get a nickle alimony because of your infidelity. You even so
much as hint that child's mine to anyone, and I'll drop kick your ass
so hard you'll land on the interstate. Now you're pregnant with no
place to go but your sister and her husband. Knowing how you get along
with them, that won't last more'n a month. To bad you don't know who
the father is, at least you could stick him for support. That's one of
your fuck-ups you can't blame on me.
Looks to me like
you sort of painted your ass into a corner. You've had things your way
with me up 'til now, but I don't plan to bail you out. I ain't making
any suggestions. You think about what you wanna' do then let me know;
we'll talk about it. You never listened to anything I wanted anyway.
You treated my son like he was a piece of shit, and then, you moan
because he called you a bitch. I'd say the kid nailed you to the wall!
You are a bitch, Judy; a whore and a slut. You be the one to think
about it. I don't want to think about you any more'n I have to."
* * * * * * *
Bubba and Waddie
rolled out of the truck stop headed for Austin. Waddie was in good
spirits even though his ass was beginning to hurt from sitting through
breakfast. Bouncing up and down every now and then in the truck was
hurting him pretty bad, but he didn't want to complain to his buddy.
Bubba could tell he was uncomfortable.
"Get that big
pillow in the sleeper there, Son, and lay down on your stomach next to
me."
Waddie did as
Bubba suggested. He needed to get off his ass. It was beginning to hurt
worse than pretty bad. He stretched out on the seat next to Bubba with
one arm thrown over Bubba's lap. Bubba reached down for a second and
patted his little hand to let him know it was all right. Waddie tried
his damnedest to be strong but his butt hurt him so bad he started
weeping silently with his face shoved into the pillow so Bubba wouldn't
hear him. Waddie felt a big hand gently on his head, lightly
stroking and petting him. Bubba didn't say a word, he just wanted to
touch Waddie to let him know he was there for him.
Bubba had been
there and back. His old man would tie Bubba up and use a black snake,
bull whip on him as a boy of seven to twelve until Bubba ran away from
home. He never went back. He always wanted to. For all he
suffered, he still loved his old man in his heart. He knew some of
Waddie's pain was his disappointment in his dad's inability to love and
trust him like he needed. Bubba was going to make damn sure he didn't
let the Old Man and Urial down. He was going to give this kid as much
love as he could handle.
Finally, Waddie
cried himself to sleep with the rocking motion of the big truck, the
whine of the big engine, and Bubba softly humming 'Rock of Ages,' an
old hymn Waddie knew from church. He wasn't loud but Bubba's humming
was so soothing to Waddie's spirit and soul he forgot about his pain.
It began to go away as he drifted off to sleep. He was warm,
comfortable, loved and safe in the protection of an angel and a huge
bear of a man who would cause any demon with a lick of sense to drop
his load and run the other way. Waddie knew it was all right to love
Bubba. Mr. Urial knew what he was doing.
Waddie woke up
and lay there for a while looking up at Bubba's strong face. He had the
sweetest smile as he hummed his songs. He was a good man and a happy
man. He was needed and doing something for someone special. Someone
he'd fallen in love with; his little buddy. Waddie started to move over
into Bubba's lap when he felt a big arm under his armpit helping him
over. He lay there for a minute and Bubba didn't say anything.
"I love you,
Bubba." Waddie said to the big man in a quiet voice but loud enough for
him to hear.
"You gotta' know
I love you, Waddie. You're mighty special to me, cowboy. Old Urial knew
what he was doing when he put us together. We make a good team, you and
me."
"I think we do,
too, big man. We are a good team."
"Feeling a
little better, sweetheart?"
"A lot better,
Bubba. Just being here, ride'n in this big truck with you,— can't think
of a place in the world I'd rather be right now."
"Now, stop that,
darlin.' Old Bubba's gotta' drive and get us there safe. He can't do it
with tears in his eyes. You gettin' hungry again? I didn't stop for
lunch, we had such a large breakfast. You ate everything on your plate,
half of mine, and half of Red Dog's." Bubba roared with laughter. He
was glad to see Waddie eat. It would build up his strength. For a boy
his size he was too damn skinny to Bubba's way of thinking.
"I could go a
good while longer if you wanna' wait, Bubba. You're right, that was a
lot of food. I guess I pigged out, but it was so damn good. Thanks,
Bubba, I appreciated it."
"No problem,
cowboy. We're buddies, ain't we?"
"You know it,
big man."
"I gotta' fuel
up and my favorite truck stop for fuel is coming up in about fifty
miles. The food isn't good there, so we'll fuel up, stretch our legs,
bleed our lizards, and..."
"Bleed our
lizards, Bubba?" Waddie fell out laughing. He knew what Bubba meant but
he'd never heard that expression before and couldn't stop laughing. He
had Bubba laughing, too.
"Y'ain't never
heard that one, huh, buddy." Bubba was still laughing at Waddie.
"No. You're
special, big man. So we stop, stretch our legs and bleed our lizards."
They fell out laughing again. Bubba was thrilled to hear relaxed
laughter coming from his little buddy. He knew he was gonna' make it.
"Yeah, young'un,
we'll get a snack and a soda to tide us over 'til dinner. I though we'd
get another room tonight and clean you up again real good. You're
getting better, I can see it in your pretty little smile. Then we'll
roll into Austin 'bout noon tomorrow. I ain't gonna' push it too hard.
I got a valuable cargo."
"You got
something back there that's worth a lot?"
"No, but I do up
here, sittin' next to me."
Waddie looked at
Bubba and smiled. Waddie prayed to the Old Man that he'd forgive him,
but he just had an awful dirty thought that made his dick shoot down
the leg of his levis. Bubba didn't miss a thing. He got a big smile on
his face and Waddie watched as his big ole wanger started snake'n down
his trouser leg. They both looked down at their crotches then over to
each other and started laughing again.
"You sure you
love me that much, big man?" Waddie asked with a smile.
"Hell,— wait a
minute,— it ain't through grow'n, yet!" declared Bubba and threw back
his head in laughter. He broke Waddie up again. They laughed for the
next fifty miles and neither one lost their hard-ons. Bubba pulled into
the truck stop and left his keys with a station attendant. He certainly
didn't miss the two men's hard-ons and smiled knowingly. That only
added fuel to Waddie and Bubba's funny fire.
"That chur'
boy?" the big man asked.
"Naw, Sir. He's
my brother's boy, but he's my running buddy for this trip. He's good
company."
"Somebody socked
him pretty damn good." the man said slowly almost like he was wondering
if Bubba hit Waddie.
"Yes, Sir. I had
a disagreement with a bigger kid, and he stomped my butt." Waddie came
to Bubba's aid. The big man accepted his answer and roared with
laughter. Waddie and Bubba walked away laughing.
"Saved my butt,
sweet baby. Didn't know what to tell him. I almost told him the truth,
but you told him your truth. Your dad had to be acting like a big kid
to hit you like that. So you didn't lie to him." That only made them
laugh more. They headed straight for the trucker's head and bled their
lizards. Waddie started giggling again as he was pissing and that
started Bubba off again. It made them lose their hard-ons.
Bubba bought
Waddie an RC cola and a big Moon Pie. He hadn't tried one since he was
a kid and decided to get the same thing. They stood around waiting for
Bubba's truck to be filled and walked back over. Bubba took a big metal
bar and went around the truck hitting each one of the tires. He was
satisfied and put the bar back. The guy finished and Bubba paid him. He
pulled the big truck over to the side, told Waddie to get up in the
sleeper, and take his clothes off.
"Gee, Bubba,
ain't cha' even gonna' wait 'til we get a room?" Waddie giggled and
that did it. Bubba couldn't stop laughing. He laughed and laughed.
"No, you little
shit, I'm a' gonna' put more medicine on your butt. I should shove the
whole tube up your rear for that!" Bubba was still laughing.
"You don't
wanna' do that, Bubba."
"Oh God, I'm
afraid to ask,— all right,— why?"
"You open that
hole,— the vacuum will suck that Masonic ring right off your finger.
You'll never see it again!"
Bubba had tears
rolling down his face he was laughing so hard. They laughed and laughed.
"Serious time,
cowboy. Lemme' put some more of this stuff on you." Bubba gently
applied the ointment to Waddie's butt, back, shoulder and face. Waddie
was amazed it hardly hurt at all. The food, the nap in the truck, and
the medicine were working.
"Feels better
don't it, cowboy?" Bubba asked.
"A Hell of a lot
better, big man. I'm really surprised. Can I put my clothes on now?"
"Naw, I want you
to lay up there in the sleeper. You can put your little head up this
way so's you can talk to me if you want to, or you can take another nap
if you like. I want to leave it uncovered to let the air get around it
to heal it. If you get chilled throw that blanket over you. You gonna'
be all right up there?"
"Damn straight,
Bubba. It's comfortable up here, but laying on my stomach I can't play
with myself." Waddie joked with his big friend.
"That's the
idea, buckwheat! You save that for old Bubba." Bubba reached up and
stole a kiss. Waddie stole one back. They were both back to laughing
again. Bubba wanted to make another couple hundred miles before they
stopped for the night. Bubba's favorite truck stop was about that
distance and had a motel with special rates for truckers. Waddie wasn't
sleepy and talked to Bubba almost all the way. He found out a lot about
the big man and Bubba asked Waddie questions about his life and
brothers. He wanted to know all about how he got adopted. Why his real
parents didn't know he was their son. Bubba was amazed by Waddie's
story and was genuinely touched. Several times he got out his big, red
bandana and wiped his eyes. He didn't realize this wasn't the first
beating. There had been many more before this one because of Willie,
Dorothy and Judy's treachery.
He told Bubba
everything including the story of Willie's silent disease. Waddie
thought the poor man was going to have stroke he laughed so hard, but
it wasn't until he started telling Bubba the story of Ms. Pearl that
Bubba had to pull off at a rest stop to get himself together. Waddie
didn't even get to the good part. Bubba told Waddie not to tell him
anymore of the story until dinner. Bubba knew a waitress and a
couple of fellow truckers who would be at the truck stop where they
were stopping for the night. He wanted Waddie to tell them his stories.
There's nothing a group of truckers love better than an outrageously
funny, real story. Waddie heard Oatie tell his version of 'Ms. Pearl's
Shoot Out at the Lovejoy Corral' so many times he memorized Oatie's
words and delivery. He was good at it, too.
He also told
Bubba about his B.J. coach. He kept telling Bubba how much he thought
of Ed the plumber and all about how they were good buddies. He was
careful not to say anything about what coach Ed and his relationship
was, but he told Bubba enough to get the idea he thought the world of
coach Ed. Bubba was taking it all in, but Waddie could see every
time he called Ed Bloomquist his B.J. coach, Bubba was trying like
crazy to figure out what B.J. meant. Waddie kept telling him coach Ed
did this for him and coach Ed did that for him. He had poor Bubba
stumped. It was so obvious what B.J. stood for but Bubba was trying to
think of a sport that fit the letters for something more difficult.
Waddie could see the gears turning in the big man's head but didn't
give him a clue. He knew Bubba would cave at any minute.
"Okay! All
right! Something tells me I'm gonna' regret this, but what the fuck's a
B. J. coach?" Bubba asked disgustedly with a huge grin on his face.
"Blow job coach,
Bubba!" Waddie replied matter of factly to Bubba's explosion of
laughter, "I begged coach Ed to teach me to give a man a good blow job
'cause I thought if I could get my dad to let me suck him off, he
wouldn't have to beat my ass so hard to get his rocks. Coach Ed taught
me real good how to give a man an indecent blow job. Say's I give 'em
the bestest blow jobs he's ever had." Waddie tossed off as an
afterthought. He smiled to himself as he watched Bubba's snake crawl
down his trouser leg again.
"Now who's
think'n them dirty thoughts, big man?" asked Waddie laughing. He
started Bubba in again. Bubba collected himself once more.
"Okay, I
understand, but what's an 'indecent' blow job?"
"Well, Bubba, if
it's in tight enough and deep enough it's in decent." Waddie giggled
like crazy 'cause he set Bubba up and he bit.
Bubba told
Waddie they weren't gonna' get to the damn truck stop if he didn't stop
making him laugh so much. Still he was laughing and chuckling to
himself. The two hundred miles flew by, and they were pulling in to the
truck stop for the night. The sun was just setting in the West out over
the vast expanse of the badlands. It was a beautiful sight. It
was a magic time of evening, and the two men felt it. It was almost
like the Old Man was telling the two new buddies their lives were
richer for sharing a laugh and being with each other. You wouldn't have
stopped to enjoy the painting I placed in the sky for you, if your
hearts weren't filled with love. Bubba gently picked Waddie up in his
big arms, stole a kiss, and they stood there for a good while, watching
the colors change. Bubba thanked the Old Man for a beautiful day, a
wonderful little running buddy, and a beautiful sunset. Waddie said
'amen' and stole another kiss from his big buddy.