brcb_23

Booger Red & Cowboy
Waddie Greywolf

Chapter 23

"The young cowboy came back to ride the circuit. Booger went to him and begged his forgiveness. Red broke down and cried in the kid's arms begging him to forgive him. The kid forgave Booger and they became good friends. It wasn't an act with Booger Red, he truly felt bad and felt even worse when the kid went before the association and saved his ass. He felt indebted to the kid, although the cowboy assured Booger he wasn't beholden to him. He did what he thought was right. Nevertheless, Booger tried to do everything he could to make it up to him. Nobody fucked with the kid because, he became number one running buddy of Bud and Booger's. They looked out for him. The kid asked Booger one night why he got so upset when he asked Bud to share his bunk? Booger didn't even think before he blurted out in front of every cowboy there,

"Because, I love him, Sam!" he exclaimed.

"Yes, I was the cowboy Booger beat the fuck out of. The scars you see on my face were from that night. I never held it against Booger, and he did a lot of good things for me over the years. If I was in a jam there were two people I knew could call, Walker Johnson or Booger Red. One of them would always come to my rescue. More times than not, it was Booger I called because he was unattached for so long. I've loved Booger Red all these years, I wear my scars with pride, and I won't stop loving my friend 'cause he's gone. I looked across the table at Booger and asked him the question that was on everyone's mind.

"Then what the fuck are you gonna' do about it, Booger? He loves you, too. We see the way you look at each other; the way you rope together. You both were good before, but when you teamed up and fell in love, no one could touch you. Bud's the best looking cowboy on the circuit. If you don't want anybody bunking it in with him 'cause you love him, then when the Hell are you gonna' take him to your bunk and make him yours?" I asked with disgust.

"It ain't that simple, Sam," Booger barked at me and turned a deep shade of red. "I ain't never been with a man before. 'Sides, what's a man ugly as me got to offer a good looking man like Bud when he could have any cowboy on the circuit he wants?" Booger replied.

"Yeah? Well, I guess he could if'n you didn't kill 'em first." Fortunately for me, Booger took that as funny and laughed with the other cowboys sitting there. They all agreed with me. "So, he's a damn good looking cowboy," I continued, "are you blind, Red? Bud's not the kind of man to love you for what you look like. He loves you for who you are, Booger. You're the best goddammed roper on the circuit. He's a cowboy for Christ sake. He ain't no drug-store cowboy, neither, Brother. Bud Cummings is the gin-u-wine article."

"I wouldn't know what to do," Booger said quietly as he hung his head in embarrassment. Everyone laughed nervously.

"That should be the least of your worries. With only a word from you, Bud will take you by the hand and introduce you to pleasures you never thought possible. You think that cowboy's good a rope'n, I done heard me some stories he's a man's man and is considered one of the best on the circuit. We've seen the way he looks at you and it ain't platonic." I grinned real big, "And, yeah, we've all laughed our asses off behind your back ever' time we catch you check'n out Bud's ass." Red hung his head, grinned, and continued to turn a darker shade of red.

"Any man at this table would be glad to have that cowboy share his bunk and be proud to ride by his side." Every man at the table held his hand up in support of my statement, "If you ain't bunk'n it in with him, Booger Red, then you're a goddamn fool. Ever' night you don't, you're wasting precious time the two of you could be loving each other. Trust me, Brother, a love like you men could share don't come along none too often," I told Booger and and several of the other cowboys backed me up.

I could get away with being a little more up front with him than the other guys. I knew he'd never be violent with me again. Besides he came to trust and respect my opinion. I guess what I said hit him pretty hard. Booger didn't say much more and remained quiet for the rest of the evening. He pulled me aside and thanked me for being honest with him; then, he did something uncharacteristic for old Booger; he threw his arms around me, hugged me, and kissed me on my forehead. Bud was back in the camper reading. Booger went back to the camper and ask Bud if it was true he loved him? Bud was a cowboy. Cowboy code says; a cowboy don't never lie. Bud told him the truth.

"Yes, I love you, Booger. You're one of the finest, most thoughtful, caring men I ever met. You're one Hell of a buckaroo and rodeo partner. I couldn't wish for better. How could I not love you?" Bud replied.

"Do you love me enough to share my bunk with me?" Booger asked.

"I already share your bunk, Booger," Bud replied and laughed.

"You know what I mean," Booger said, smiling like a school boy at Bud, then looked down at his old boots and shuffled his feet.

"Yeah, I know what you mean, but do you love me?" Bud asked.

"I'll be honest with you, I don't understand it, Bud. I don't know what to do about it. I damn near beat poor Sam to death because I felt something for you; something I don't never wanna' lose. It was wrong of me, and I'm s'damn ashamed of myself. Damn it, Bud! You're the first person in my life, cep'n my older brother, who’s ever cared a tinker's dam about me. You treat me like I's a Goddamn king; like I was the most important person in your life; me, old ugly. You gimme' your love and companionship this last year unconditionally, without expecting or demanding anything in return. I ain't never had nobody, man or woman love me like that. I want you to know how much I appreciate you for that, but there's something more.

“If love for another man is a churning, almost hurting, empty feeling in my gut when I'm away from you for any period of time, if'n it's wondering how it would feel to hold you close to me in the night and share a little love, if it's dreaming and jacking off thinking about you sucking my cock, if love is wondering how my old hoss would feel a' soak'n way up inside your beautiful cowboy butt, if it's feel’n wonderful ever' time you smile at me, when you light up my day ever' time you call me 'cowboy,' if love is not being able to imagine another day without you by my side, if'n it's all them things and more, then my answer has to be, yes, I do love you. I not only love you, I want you for my own, Cowboy. I want to own you; be your main man, your buckaroo what rides herd on you, but I ain't never been with a man before; you'll have to show me."

"The way you describe love it sounds like the symptoms of a disease," Bud said and laughed, "Some folks say it's the worst disease mankind suffers. I don't know 'bout that; but, Cowboy, if'n you have all them symptoms, and I have all them symptoms, too, then we must have the same disease. To answer your question, yes Booger Red, I'd be downright proud and honored to share your bunk. Once you get your feet wet you won't have no problem wading in and learning to swim."

From that night on they became a couple; Master Red and his slave Bud. No two cowboys on the circuit loved each other more. Booger changed. He became calmer, quieter, gave up drinking altogether, and spoiled your uncle to a fault. Bud could do no wrong. Most times we couldn't tell who was the slave or who was the master. Didn't bother them none, they knew, and that's all that mattered. A couple of weeks later, in front of a large group of cowboys with Bud by his side, Booger thanked me for being a real cowboy and telling him like it was. He told me I was right, if he hadn't taken my advice he would've been a fool."

"Then your Uncle Bud and Booger got drafted along with almost everyone here and we were all shipped off to Korea."

I was surprised, my dad picked up the story. "They continued their relationship all through the war. Booger was a hero in Korea; saved my life; saved Sam's and saved Bud's life, too. He was awarded two bronze stars and six purple hearts. We all got sent home but poor Booger made it to Master
Sergeant, was extended and stayed over there for a couple more years.

Ben Stafford was a big influence on your uncle. Bud wanted to be like Ben, settle down and raise a family. Well, as you know fate wasn't too kind to him that way. He met Laura, fell in love and married her. There again, your uncle was a true cowboy. Cowboys don't never run out on someone they give their word to. He loved Laura all those years and never made her feel bad for not giving him children. He stayed with her to the end.

The story, as I got it from Walker, Booger came back from Korea and was expecting to get back together with Bud. He found out Bud got married and settled down. Booger wished him well and went his way, but inside himself, Red, was in big trouble. He went off the deep end; stopped rodeoing, never roped again we know of until that one time with you. Booger, bought a big-ass bike and started running with some pretty rough characters. He rode with damn near every outlaw gang there was. He was liked and admired by a lot of people. He tried to live by the cowboy code. He had his share of enemies, I suppose, but none he couldn't handle. Booger never took another partner or slave until he asked you to ride by his side. He knew after the second night you spent together you were Bud's son.

My dad went on to explain, "I confided in Sam when I thought I was gonna' die and asked him to tell Booger. I thought of all people Booger should know. Why? 'Cause I knew Booger would care enough to go to Bud, explain what I done and ask him to raise you. Well, I didn't die so there was no reason for Sam to tell Booger. Sam forgot about it until he saw you and Bud together at Walker's. Everyone was going on about how much you looked like Bud. It jogged Sam's memory. I never asked him not to tell Booger so he didn't see any harm in telling him as long as Bud didn't know. Booger new all along you were Bud's offspring. When you came home on leave from boot camp and Booger stayed with you in your room, I don't think Joe, me or Lester got a lick of sleep that entire week. We'd get to work and Lester would go on and on.

"Ooowwee, Mista' Gunn. I's gonna' have to make that child a belt to go 'roun't his ass. The way that big man be fucking him I'm sure his little butt's gonna' fall clean off." Dad laughed. Bud told me about you and Booger, and I was all for it. I was glad you were bonding with a man as good as Booger Red and encouraged you. The man risked his life to save my ass. I would have trusted him with anything I had, including my son. We didn't know at the time you and Buck were falling in love. We saw it and didn't know what to say. You were an adult, it was your business, it was your decision. Sometimes these things happen. No one means for them, too, but they do. No one told Booger about Buck until you did."

"The crux of the story was Booger was there, in Glen Rose that night to renew relations with your uncle. Not to get back together after all those years but maybe see each other occasionally. Bud would've never left Laura. Booger wouldn't have asked him to, but after Bud’s year on the circuit with you, he didn't want to go back to a totally straight life. Bud, Walker, Xander, and Booger expected you to pick one of the six good looking men or me." Master Sam continued, "Booger and Bud planned to spend the night together in Walker's dungeon. Booger was excited Bud ask him to be there. He still carried a big torch for Bud.

"Walker explained to Booger, Bud wanted to get together with him if he wanted to, but he'd understand if'n he didn't. I was standing next to Booger when the two of you walked into the room with Walker and Xander. I heard Booger suck in air like he couldn't believe what he was seeing. I looked at him, and he said in a quiet voice just loud enough to be heard. "If you guys care a damn about me, take me out and shoot me right now. I can't watch that kid walk out of this room with one of you." We laughed, but I felt a little sorry for Booger because he carried a torch for your uncle all those years; never seemed to be able to get over him; never brooded or talked about it much, but we knew.

“Here you were, a duplicate of Bud and a top notch cowboy to boot. Imagine the memories old Booger held conjured all them years ago, and they shook him to the core of his foundation. Everyone was floored when you did exactly what you said. You took one look at Booger, went to his arms and kissed him. Lord, we laughed later. It was like the Enola Gay took it's first big dump and couldn't wait to take its second. We watched it happen. All we could see was a flash of light and a giant mushroom cloud rising above your heads. You, both, were terminal. It was all over before the fat lady even got there. We couldn't a' pried you two apart with twenty mule team," Sam had everyone laughing.

"You didn't want to move away from him even to meet the rest of us. He didn't want to let go of you either. Someone mentioned a bucket of cold water might get you two unhooked. I made bets with a couple of the guys, out of everyone you'd pick old Harley. He was the best looking man there. Hell, even ole Harley didn't move you. You were polite and well met with all of us, but you couldn't wait to get back to Booger.

“One of the guys made a comment under his breath but loud enough we all heard him. "Why the Hell didn't we take the son of a bitch out and shoot him when he asked us to?" Everyone laughed, but there was a bit of ironic truth to the statement.

"Your Uncle Bud was disappointed but happy for you, you picked old ugly Booger Red, the man he loved all those years ago. Bud urged you to sit in Red's lap in the spa, remember? If you wanted Booger, he wanted you to have him, 'cause Bud taught Booger Red about man-sex. Bud taught Booger to be a master, his master, and knew what Booger was capable of. Oh, and by the way, don't you think for a minute the rest of us didn't know you were sit'n on Booger's big dick most of the time you were in the spa." All the men gathered roared with laughter. "After your first night with Booger, we knew you two were in love. You'd get close to each other and look like a kid's jar of fireflies on a summer night. You'd both start to glow. Booger was as much in love with you as you were with him, and while we all gave him a bad time, we were glad for you and happy for Red. Everyman there knew what you said was true; it felt right for you to be with Booger. We felt it and knew it, too; so did Bud."

"When you left the spa with Booger, Bud told you, you chose the best man there; you couldn't have chosen better and he meant it." Walker added, "That night Bud went on and on to Xander and me about how amazed and thrilled he was you chose Booger. He knew you saw the same things in Red he did and was as blown away as all of us were. You didn't even look at another man that whole week. That night Bud asked a question of Xander and me. 'Billy and I are so much alike it's frightening. We look alike, we walk alike, we talk alike, we rope alike; Hell, we even think alike. I can look at him and know what he's thinking, and he can do the same with me. I'll start a sentence, and he'll finish it. He'll start one, and I'll finish it. Do you think it's possible, even though Billy is Gunn's kid, he was the son God meant for me to have? Maybe he's punishing me for something I done wrong. I thought a lot about whether I done the right thing by not waiting for Booger and marrying Laura. I fell in love with Laura and couldn't leave her after we found out she couldn't have kids. I still love Laura. I just don't know anymore about anything and my place in the universe, I'm so fuck'n confused. I love that damn kid like he was my own, Bud said.”

"The day after you left to go back to boot camp, we got a call from Bud. He could barely talk he was crying so much when he told us you were his son. We were thrilled and happy for you both, and for Gunn as well. It took a big loving man to tell the two of you the truth. We've always thought a lot of your dad but after that, well, he's tops in our book. He took a big risk telling you 'cause you can't never tell the outcome of some revelation like that."

Master Sam picked up the story and continued, "Bud had a good time with Walker and Xander in their dungeon. While you were roping one afternoon he and Booger snuck off together and made love to each other. Bud wanted Booger to have you for his slave and told him so. He told us he knew what kind of man Booger was and he would treat you right. Bud put Booger up to asking you to run away with him and avoid the draft. He was so afraid for you. So you see, Booger wanted to be buried in your family plot because the only other man or person, I suppose, he truly loved in his life was Bud. Bud gave him you, and he wanted to be near Bud and you, if you chose to be buried there.

"When you came back from Nam, Booger almost went nuts looking for you. He was so afraid what happened to him with Bud was repeating itself, and you didn't care about him anymore. He had to find out. From what I heard, and I know Red better'n anybody, he didn't lie to you, Son, when he told you, you were the great love of his life. You were. Not because you were almost a duplicate of Bud but because he loved you, the man you are. He thought you were the most honest, open, loving man he ever met. Booger got a reputation of being one of the best masters in the biker crowd. He was liked and admired by most of the bikers. After Bud, he had many offers to be a partner, a master to other men and never did. He even had men who were masters for years, beg him to make them his slave. He chose to ride alone or with our family until he met you."

"I cried my heart out in my dad's arms. Boots and Sonny were trying to console me. I almost wish they hadn't told me. It had the strangest effect on me. I didn't care. I knew Red loved me for me and not because he thought I was another Bud Cummings, just like I love Dan Yates, not because he's Buck's dad. I have no doubt Booger loved my Uncle Bud, but I knew the depth of the love he shared with me. Today, I'm glad I was told the story. Sam and Walker were right, it only made me love and appreciate Booger more. My master knew what was best for his slave. He was a unique human being. He loved deeply, and he shared love with one of the most important loves of my life, my Uncle Bud. Somehow, it made me feel bonded to both; but, above all, he taught me and trained me to be his worthy slave. He was my magnificent beast, my beloved master, and I loved him. I still love him to this day.

* * * * * * *
The next day was Saturday and everyone was hinting about having a rodeo. They didn't want to push, but I asked dad what he thought. "What do you think Booger would have wanted you to do, Son?"

"Rodeo, Dad, he would've told me to rodeo."

"You're exactly right. Nothing would’ve made him happier."

I stood and announced tomorrow will be the first Annual Booger Red Rodeo in honor of my friend and partner. "Everyone is invited, especially our Royal guests. Me and my two roping partners, Dan Yates and Phil Roamer will take on all challengers."

The Sultan and his men drove back to San Antonio to the Hilton and stayed the night but were back for the rodeo early the next morning. The Twisselmans were there as well. Dad left Dolly and Madison with Phil and Wilma Jo. I sent them money every other month or so for their upkeep. Dan, Ben, Tim and I rode out to Phil and Wilma Jo's in Uncle Bud's old truck to load them and bring them to the rodeo grounds. They were so glad to see me again it was all I could do to get Madison settled down.

Dolly became Ben's pony for all practical purposes. She loved him and he loved her. Every time he came to Mason he wanted to drive out to Phil and Wilma Jo's to see her. He was always welcome and Wilma Jo would insist he stay for dinner. He came to love Phil and Wilma Jo as much as I did. Ben spoiled Dolly rotten. He rode around with Tim who was riding a quarter horse gelding. Ben's dad smiled and waved at the two of them.

Ben and Tim made a handsome Western couple. If you didn't know you wouldn't guess Ben wasn't just another buckaroo. Tim wore western clothes all his life and knew how to looked authentic. Tim was teaching his master to rope. They had a long way to go, but they were good enough to enter the competition. That's the only way you get better, to go up against really fine ropers. It's one thing to do it in practice and another, altogether, to compete. Your adrenaline is a great factor whether you win, place, or show.

The Sultan dispatched two of his guards to take photos with expensive cameras. Dad and Uncle Joe were primed and ready to reclaim their local number one status. There were several mixed teams. I was roping with Phil and Dan. Dan and I didn't have but one or two chances to practice, but we still had it; Dan never missed. He was riding Dolly and she knew Dan knew what he was doing. She could read his mind. Madison and Dolly worked together for years and knew just what to do and when to do it.

Surprisingly, Ben and Tim made it through the first elimination rounds. They got a lot of support from the crowd. They were favorites, and the Sultan couldn't have been prouder. He had a big smile on his face. Phil and I made our catch and advance to the next round; so did Dan and I. Ed and Toller Twissleman advanced as did my dad and Uncle Joe. They were looking really good. Dad sprung for new outfits for him and Uncle Joe. They were decked out wearing good looking new hats and handsome western shirts. Dad wore his old, worn batwing chaps and Uncle Joe wore his. They looked like two old buckaroos.

Ben sported his chaps, dad, Uncle Joe and Lester gave him plus his beautiful vest Lester made for him. He was also wearing the belt I made. He bought Tim a full outfit as well. They fit right in. Ben Stafford and Ben Jr. were going to rope but changed their minds. They didn't have their ponies, and didn't feel comfortable borrowing anyone's. I offered them Dolly and Madison, dad and Uncle Joe offered them Tucker and Max, but they didn't want to. We came to the next round and Ben and Tim didn't make their catch. Neither did Phil and I. The steer bolted in the wrong direction, cut in front of Madison and Phil couldn't get his rope on the cow; however, Dan and I clocked the best time in that round and the Twisslemans were second. Dad and Uncle Joe were third.

The next round Dan and I went first, and we bested our time from the previous round. We were hot. "And, that's the way it's done, Ladies and Gentlemen." The announcer said on the loud speaker. Ed and Toller Twissleman went next. Ed got his rope around the steer's neck right out of the chute but try as he may Toller got frustrated and couldn't catch the hinders. They were out. Dad and Uncle Joe almost beat Dan and my time. We were down to the final round. Dan and I went first. He winked at me as if to say, 'You and me, Kid, we can do it.' We broke the time barrier and Dan landed his rope on the steer and turned it immediately. Madison barely cleared the gate, and I roped onto its hinders. Both ponies worked perfectly together and the catch was timed. It was the best time of the day.

Dad and Uncle Joe went next and the crowd was standing. You could've heard a pin drop in the arena. Everyone wanted to know who was going to come out on top in the rivalry between my dad and me. The two good looking cowboys came out of the gates and dad had his rope on the critter's neck quicker than greased lightening and damned if Uncle Joe didn't hit the hinders almost as quick. Tucker, Dad's pony, stumbled but not seriously, but it was just enough to cost them the win. Dan and I won by half a second. The crowd went crazy cheering and hollering for Dan and me.

Dad got down from Tucker, came over to me and pulled me off Madison. He spun me around as he hugged me. Uncle Joe was next. Dad went to Dan and took his hand. He pulled him down and hugged him, too. The Twisslemans and everyone entered the arena to congratulate us. It was one of the best times I could remember of my rodeo days. It was what Booger and I needed.

We broke for lunch and once again the food that was spread was unbelievable. The Sultan complimented the women. He told them he loved the rodeo but he really came for the good food. He won their hearts. I ordered more food from the diner and Louise and Suzie refused my tip this time. They wanted to do something for us. They were loves and I thanked them before all the assembled. They both blushed.

We continued all the other events after lunch into late evening. The Sultan stayed for the whole thing. Dan and I, and our family joined him in the stands. We had a wonderful time watching the younger rodeo riders in the different events. The Sultan's men were taking hundreds of pictures. They must have been really tired by the end of the day. Everyone learned the names of the Sultan's men and they were included like family. They had as good a time as the Sultan. Ben was in heaven, his father came to see a world and people he was getting to know and love. He could walk down the street and people would smile and wave to him, shake his hand, and call him Ben. He loved being able to be just another person. Late in the afternoon about sundown, the Sultan and his men departed and returned to San Antonio. Ben and Tim stayed behind with our family, and we had a great evening visiting.

I had a long talk with Booger's brother. He asked Sonny if he'd take Griz and let him hang out with him and Boots for a while, he needed to talk with Cowboy in private. Sonny was only too happy to take the giant by the hand and spend some time with him. I told Bro Red Booger's wishes concerning his motorcycle and small pen knife. I asked if he had any objections. I explained Sonny's closeness to Booger. He liked Sonny and Boots and thought it was a wonderful idea. I knew he had money but didn't know his financial status. I offered him half the money Booger left me. He smiled at me and told me to keep it.

"Some day you may need it to take care of someone you didn't expect in your life. By the way, Cowboy, I plan to keep in touch with you, Dan, your dad, and Uncle Joe. Fine men. After you and my brother left to come to Mason I had my lawyer draw up new documents in case something should happen to me. You're included in my will. I brought notarized copies and gave them to your dad for safe keeping."

I didn't know what to say, but be gracious and thank him for thinking enough of me to remember me.

"Son, you saw my little brother through to the last. It must've been Hell on you. I make no apologies for not offering to help. You would've been burying more than one 'Red.' I love you and your family for what you done. I know you loved him and did it for that reason, but I wanted you to know how grateful I am he had you to see him through to the end. I was so shaken with the news my little brother was dying it made me face my own mortality. That's why I had my will rewritten. I've gone all these years with the most faithful of slaves by my side. He saved my life five or six times, I lost count, yet I hadn't provided for him if something happened to me. Remembering you in my will is not a guilt payment on my part. It's, oh Hell, you wouldn't believe me if I told you."

"Uh, don't bet the ranch on it, Master Red," I said and smiled at him.

"I wouldn't ask, because I know you and Griz bonded when you and my brother visited and share some secrets, but I'm worried about him."

"Because he has a new friend?" I asked and smiled.

"Then you know. Did anything unusual happen the night you two were together?" he asked quietly like he was afraid to hear the answer.

"Nothing I couldn't tell you about. We bonded tighter'n two ticks on an old hound-dog. We fell in love, but we were honest with our masters the next morning. I do love Griz with all my heart, and I know with the same heart he loves me. Ain’t no doubt in my mind. I gave him my address here in Mason and my dad's telephone number. I told Griz, if you or him didn't know where I was to call my dad. Dad will always know where I am. I made Griz promise three times or more I would be the first person he called if he found himself in trouble. Don't matter none what my obligations to others might be, I told him I needed to be the first to know not only because I love him, but because, there's something inside me what tells me strongly I have to know and see to it he's safe. I need to know he's okay, and I will drop everything to help him. I made Griz promise three times he would remember and do as I asked."

I watched Bro Red's face turned pale white. "Has he told you about what happened?" he asked me.

"Briefly," I replied.

"He won't tell me who his new friend is. He can see him and talk with him, but I can't. Has he said anything to you about his new imaginary friend?"

I laughed and caught myself. Obviously Griz didn't tell his master he's carrying on conversations with the Old Man himself. I wondered how Bro Red was going handle that. "I'm sorry I laughed, Master Red, but I assure you his friend ain’t imaginary. Griz never swore me to secrecy about things we talk about. Guess he trusts me to use my own discretion. I have no problem sharing with you what I know; well, maybe one thing. Griz asked me if I believe in God. I assured him I did and told him several miraculous things which have happened to me that can't be explained as chance.

“He opened his heart to me about something he deeply wanted, other than you, Master Red. He's never regretted being your slave, and he loves you very much. I wouldn't feel comfortable discussing what he wanted without his permission. I told him to ask God, and if he was sure it was something he truly wanted, God would give it to him. He asked me how to ask God? I told him to pray, get away from everyone and talk to Him out loud like he was an old friend. He asked me how to pray?
I told him he didn't have to get down on his knees to talk to God. He didn't have to use fancy words. God understands common folk pretty damn well, after all he created a passel of us. I told him to be respectful, mind his manners, and talk to him like a friend. Tell him what's in your heart, Griz." I told him. "I guess he did, Master, but believe me, I never expected God to talk back."

"Oh, wow! He told you that? He thinks he's talking to God?" Master Red asked.

"Yes, sir, and I believe him. I asked Griz to ask him the next time he talked with him to give me strength and his love to help me through my master's crossing. Griz promised he would, and he did. God came to me at my darkest hour and held me in his arms to console me in my time of need. My advice, Master, from the humblest of slaves, is trust your slave, and believe in him. One day I'll be able to tell you how I know your devoted slave is telling the truth but for now, believe me when I tell you, Griz is not hallucinating. Your slave does have a new friend, a close friend, who walks by his side, talks with him daily and loves him very much. He's a loving, caring, forgiving, demanding, no nonsense master, much like my master was. I'd recommend him to anyone, including the best of masters."

"That answer ain't quite what I thought I was gonna' hear. At first I thought I might have to have him committed, but too many things his 'friend' told him about, and he related to me have happened. How could he know these things unless he had a source? He don't watch T.V. We don't own a radio. He don't read newspapers. He knocked on my door at about two-thirty Tuesday afternoon. He was crying his heart out, and I told him to come to me. I held him close and asked him what was the matter? He told me my brother just passed way a few minutes ago. I didn't hear the phone ring. If I'm home, I usually answer the phone. Once again he told me his friend told him."

"That's the exact time my master left his body, two twenty-five. I looked at the clock so the nurse could have it for the death certificate." I confirmed Griz's information. Bro Red was visibly shaken.

"I found out by calling your house and your Uncle Joe answered the phone. He told me my brother passed away less than ten minutes ago. I was stunned. How could he have known? Well, it's a little easier thinking he's talking to God but not much. Griz is a wonderful man full of love and compassion, but he ain't the sharpest tack in the box. Why would God want to talk with him?"

"Why not, Master Red? You just gave me enough reason for anyone to want to talk with Griz. He's loving, caring, and compassionate. What more could you want in a good friend to talk with? Did you know in Russia, folks who have diminished smarts, for lack of a better word, are considered holy people? They think they're closer to God than normal people. Folks leave food on their doorsteps for them. Why don't you try talking to Griz's friend? Just tell him you don't expect him to talk to you, but ask him to help you understand. He will, Master Red."

"Not a bad idea. Couldn't hurt none. Thanks, I just might, Cowboy. You've helped a lot. I love you, too, Son," he added. We hugged, kissed, shed some more tears in each other's arms and walked out to find his giant slave. It was a fine day. A day Booger, and I could be proud of. It was a fine testament to Booger's memory and our love. Dan and I were together and we knew nothing would separate us again. Booger Red smiled, he knew I'd be all right. I was comforted by the thought he was probably making love to a big handsome cowboy we both loved, my Uncle Bud.

BOOTS & SONNY

Sonny held up fairly well. He leaned on his dad, his new granddad, Uncle Joe, and Lester. Big Beryl and Big Jim were constantly with him. Boots didn't try to smother him, but he let him know he was there if Sonny needed him. Occasionally, Sonny would find Boots and quietly sit by his side while his dad was talking with someone. Boots had his own grieving to do. Red's death hit him harder than any of us expected it might, but he shelved most of his grief, postponed it. He would grieve later, he thought.

Boots felt he had to be strong for me and Sonny. Boots found a great deal of comfort from my dad, Uncle Joe, and Lester. Ben Stafford and Walker Johnson helped him a lot, too. Walker and Xander fell in love with Boots and Sonny. Walker invited them to Glen Rose anytime. He made them an open invitation. Come, stay a night, a week, a month, it didn't matter. Boots came to love and appreciate the big hearted men. He'd never had men of their caliber care about him and Sonny. Boots took their address and phone number in Glen Rose and promised he and Sonny would try to visit.

Dad took Boots aside and told him as a parting gift Booger paid all expenses in advance for Sonny's slave training if Boots chose to take Sonny for his slave. Booger left three thousand with my Dad in case there were any extra expenses for Sonny's training. Dad told Boots he'd give him an accounting. What money wasn't used he would turn over to Boots after Sonny's training was completed. If the money Booger advanced Master Jeb and Big Jim covered everything then dad would release the money to Boots right away. It was what Booger wanted.

"Master Booger Red and I developed a wonderful relationship." Boots told my dad, "I admired him and learned a great deal from him. He taught me many things and for that I'm grateful. I don't think I ever experienced love for other men the way I have since meeting Booger and Cowboy. They brought me to you and Joe and made me appreciate my own son more than ever. Booger and Cowboy were generous with their love for Sonny and me.

“At a time, when they probably should have been spending most of their love on each other, they shared with us. Cowboy realized how much Sonny fell in love with Booger and had no problem sharing his master. Of course, Red confided in me he fell in love with Sonny, too. We all fell in love with each other. God knows I fell in love with my little brother. He's the best kid I ever met, Dad. Sonny and Cowboy were inseparable. They have a bond tighter than any two brothers I ever seen. They know what each other's thinking most of the time.

“Cowboy would always be Master Red's number one slave, but he enjoyed making Sonny his number two. My kid ate it and him up. To find out he did this, well, it's the way Booger would tell us goodbye and how much he loved us. It was meant for both Sonny and me, and not for one or the other. It's Booger's way of saying to me, "Boots, Goddamn it! I told you to make that boy your slave. Now, I'm handing you the opportunity. Do it! Don't let me down. He talked and talked with me about becoming Sonny's master." Boots told my dad.

"You know, Son, I learned more about Booger after he and Cowboy started riding together. At first I didn't know what to think because of the difference in their ages. Then, one night Cowboy decided to give himself to me, and we fell in love all over again. I realized their love was right and told Cowboy several times he could do worse for a master than old Booger Red. I learned how much Red loved my kid and it surprised me. He gave my boy what he wanted and needed. They had a passion few people, straight or gay ever experience. In some ways Booger was a kid and could communicate with the kid in all of us, but that kid inside him was guided and directed by a self-assured, strong, mature, and wise man. I have to say, Boots, I have to agree with old Booger.

“You know I done come to love the two of you like you came from my loins. I wish't to Hell you had, but I think you should take his gift and let the old man have his way; run with it. Cowboy, will tell you, I don't give advice often, but I don't think you or Sonny will regret it. I know our family won't. Hell, they all wanna’ see you together. Sonny's even asked me to plead with you to make him your slave. Boots, if I didn't have Joe, and Cowboy didn't have the obligations he has, I'd make my kid my slave in a cow-town minute, without thinking about it. I love him that much. I loved him as a kid, and I love him as much or more as a man. I'm really proud of him."

"He told me the same thing about you, Dad. If things were different he'd offer himself to be your slave. He loves you that much."

* * * * * * *
During the rodeo picnic Boots sat at a table with several of our family while eating lunch. Sonny got his food, walked to the table and politely asked his dad if he might sit by him. Sam Jenkins move down a bit to make room for him and he squeezed in next to his dad. His dad did something uncharacteristic. After Sonny sat down he felt his dad's hand rest gently on his leg. It seemed natural for Sonny to place his hand on top of his dad's. He looked at his old man and blushed. Boots smiled to himself to see his son blush at one of the only times he ever made an overt gesture toward him. He turned to his boy and spoke quietly. "We been though a lot the last few days, Son, but I want you to know, I'm proud of the way you handled yourself, and I love you very much." He took Sonny's hand and gently squeezed it.

"I'm proud of you, too, Dad, and you know I love you." That was all that was necessary to pass between them to let Sonny know his dad would accept him as his slave. Nothing more was said and they joined in the conversation at the table. Everyone finished, and they found themselves alone. Sonny went to get dessert for him and his dad, and Boots went for coffee. When they returned they sat across from each other.

Sonny began to get nervous. His dad began to look at him like he never had before. The look in his eyes was not the look of his older buddy he had known for years. It was the look of a mature master, sure of himself and what he was about. He could be evaluating the man sitting across from him as a possible slave. "Has your granddad or your brother talked with you about anything since the funeral." Boots asked quietly.

"Naw, Sir. Cowboy told me this morning he had something for me. Something Master Red wanted me to have. He has it in his pocket and said he'd give it to me this afternoon. You think Master Red left me his small pen knife, Dad?"

"Might be, Son. He treasured that little knife. He said his brother gave it to him as a boy."

"Whatever Master Red left me, I'll..."

"You'll always remember his love for you, and it'll remind you not to forget him," Boots finished for his boy.

"You always know what I'm trying to say, Dad. That's exactly what I meant. I don't think either of us will ever forget him."

"He gave us something else, too. Something for us to remember him by and never forget his love."

"What's that, Dad?" Sonny asked.

"Before I tell you let me tell you something else. The afternoon we met Booger Red and Cowboy I told Booger our story. I don't know why. You know me well enough to know I rarely tell anybody much about us; especially, in the scoot crowd. Booger had a way of making me feel at ease, and I trusted him almost immediately. I saw the way he related to you, me, and Cowboy and somehow knew he was a man of above average intelligence and good character.

“The ease and sureness of himself put me at ease and made me want to trust him. He never betrayed that trust, Son. The way he handled you and Cowboy amazed me. In a way he related to me the same way but with less attitude. I think he saw me as a son he never had and wanted to impart some of himself to me.

“I never realized how much of him I absorbed and made my own until we took the casket to the cemetery. It hit me standing there, looking around at them folks, how many lives Booger touched. I was as hopelessly drawn to him as you and Cowboy were. Another time and place, if I'd met Booger Red alone, I probably would have gone with him. His presence, his aura, and his masculinity were so strong I wanted to reach out and grab it for myself. In a way I did that on our trip. It's hard to admit to my own son, but Booger taught me what it means to be a man. After talking with him for a few minutes, I poured my heart out to him. I'm not sorry I did. I've never regretted it for a minute. I told him something he remembered and made me swear I'd tell you. I didn't find out why he wanted me to tell you until this morning.

"I told him about raising you by myself, loving you, becoming buddies, and basically us growing up together. I told him, one morning I woke up and was lying next to you. I'd propped myself up to look at you and told Red I didn't know what happened. It was like I woke up from a dream. It was only last year, it seemed, you were toddling behind me, barely walking, trying to run, laughing, and yelling, 'I'm gonna' catch you daddy!' I wondered what happened? Where had it all gone? Here I was lying next to a fine looking young man who was no longer my little boy. My little buddy grew up before my eyes, yet somehow, I must not have been paying attention. I missed it. Maybe I didn't wanna' see it. Maybe I wanted you to remain my little boy forever.

“I've heard some parents never allow their children to grow up. They control their kids so much they couldn't break away if they wanted to. They come to depend on their parents control for comfort. I didn't want that for you. I wanted you to be able to be happy on your own, spread your wings and fly, but not too far, mind you." Boots winked, and they laughed together. "Then, it hit me. I changed, too. I no longer loved you as my little buddy, my boy, or my son. It scared the shit out of me. I suddenly realized that morning, I fell in love with the man you were becoming, and I knew I never wanted to let go.

"I'm still in love with with that young man who was lying next to me that morning, Son. I've always told you I loved you, I'm proud of you, but now it's another ball game, Billy Gunn-three. I no longer love you as just your dad, you father. I love you man to man. I deeply love the man you have become and are trying to become. A moment ago you sensed it when I touched your leg. For a minute you didn't understand and then you did. You know I meant it differently. You understood and reacted. Booger made me promise I'd tell you and for me not be afraid, so did Dad Gunn, so did your brother, Cowboy, so did ever' damn member of this family, and if that weren't enough, Betty Bob Twissleman pulled me a side and told me, I'd be a gall-durn fool not to make you my slave. There was one point I was going to leave out, but I swore to Booger I would tell you, and I trust him. If I lost you to some scoot bum trash who fancied himself a master, I don't think I'd want to go on living, Billy."

Boots rarely called Sonny by his real name. He only called him 'Billy' when he was serious to the max and trying to make a strong point with his son. A tear fell from his dad's eye and Sonny lost it. He put his hand on his dad's and couldn't say anything. He didn't have to. "You begged me and asked every man close to us to talk to me about becoming your master. I'm ready to do that, Son. I'm ready to claim you as my slave." Boots stopped for a moment to see what Sonny might say.

Sonny looked at his dad with his eyes watering. Swallowed hard and spoke quietly, "I know you are, Master. I feel it. I seen it coming. On our trip with Booger and Cowboy I watched you grow into another man who was my dad, and yet, he weren't. I know you're becoming the master I want and need. The strength of the master growing inside you has helped me through Master Red's death. Master Red told me you would change because you love me enough to become what I need. He told me not to worry, he'd train you to become my master. I don't never want no one else but you, Master."

"You may have to share your master from time to time with your brother. I ain't giving up bunk'n it in with my little brother; that is, if his new master's amenable. Sometimes we might just share him." Boots smiled knowingly at his kid. There's enough love there to satisfy both of us.

"Are you kidding, after what Cowboy's done for both of us, I would expect you to bunk it in with him. You and him formed a master/slave relationship in some ways maybe stronger than ours. He was generous to a fault with his master to me and you. I certainly have no problem sharing you with him. I ain't the least jealous of that, Master. Cowboy's family, Dad. So's granddad, Uncle Joe, and Lester. We never had family except Bob and Larry in Bakersfield."

"Booger Red was a wise and giving man to both of us, Son, and we'll miss him, but we won't never forget him. Before we left on our trip, Booger paid in advance for your slave training. He insisted you go through training. It's all been arranged and you'll travel back to Los Angeles with Master Jeb and Big Jim to began training immediately. We're all riding to help Cowboy move to Tucson, maybe stay a night, then you'll go on with them, and I'm gonna' return here to help dad and Joe at the garage. I can't visit you the first month anyway. I'd be lost hanging around L.A., and I ain't ready to return to Bob and Larry's yet. I been thinking about inviting them to our bonding ceremony, since they been our only family up 'til now.

"After you become my slave, we'll go on a honeymoon trip, invite some of our biker family to ride with us, and visit a spell with them. Maybe we can take them to dinner for a change. Maybe take 'em on a weekend run to Vegas and treat them like royalty and maybe introduce them to some royalty. I'd like to take them some place nice and spend a little on 'em. They been faithful friends to us, and we need to let them know, as part of our family, how much they mean to us. If I stay here I can earn us a little more money, and we won't have to dip into our stash. Dad pays me well, and he seems to appreciate my work. Hell, I love that man so much, I'd work for him for nothing." Boots stopped again. Sonny laid his head on his arm on the table and started sobbing. Boots was surprised and concerned. "I thought my decision would make you happy, Son?"

"It has, Dad. More'n you can know. I'm crying because I'm relieved. I was so worried you might never take me for your slave, and I know I would've never gone with another master. I think if I ever came down to a "him or me" situation, I couldn't imagine leaving you. Master Red was different. He took both of us under his wing. He knew in his heart I'd never leave you. Master Red took me as his slave to show us how much better our lives could be if I became your slave. I love you so much, Dad, I don't wanna’ never be anything else but your slave. I grew up imagining myself your slave. I'm so touched Master Red did that for us. I'll gladly go to Los Angeles and enter training, but promise me dad, you'll come to me the first time they'll let you visit. Think about it dad, I ain't never spent a night by myself, away from you. Even when I went with Master Red your were always in the next room."

"I know, Son. Don't think it's gonna' be a cakewalk for your dear old dad, neither. I almost feel like Ben Stafford not wanting to let go of Ben Jr. long enough for him to go to college, and we’re only looking at three months,” Boots said and rolled his eyes. He got a laugh out of Sonny. But, we're different now, you and me. Thanks to Red and Cowboy, we got family to support and help us. Why the Hell you think I'm staying here with that big cowboy dad of ours? He’s the dad and granddad what should have been ours, by the way. You'll be with men who think the world of you and me. They know. They understand and you'll come to depend on them to help you through. I couldn't be leaving you with better men. If anyone can mold you into the proper slave I need and you want to become, they can do it. I promise I'll keep in close touch with Master Jeb and Big Jim. I'll be there the first time they'll let me visit. After your first month, you get weekends to have visitors. We've already been invited to the desert for two weekends and our social calendar is quickly filling up. There was one other thing. An ultimate compliment Master Red paid you one night when we were at Brant and Ralph's."

"What's that, Dad?" Sonny asked.

"I was going on to Brant and Ralph about men not allowing their son's to grow up, and I didn't want that for you. Old Booger sat for a minute, looked at me, and shook his head. 'You know what, Boots?' he asked, 'Your boy has grown up. He's waiting for you.' "His words hit me pretty damn hard. Of all the things the man said to me, I'll take that to my grave, but you know what, Billy? He was right. Before he went into coma I sat with him for a while and reminded him of that conversation. I thanked him for being honest with me. So, Billy, the man you see before you today is slowly replacing the dad you knew. I'm trying to grow up for you. It's something I should have done when you's a kid. Then I thought, why bother, there's plenty of time, we can grow up together. We did, too. I watched you grow up, but I still wanted to be a kid and have my little buddy to play with. You may have to be patient with me, Son, but I promise, I'll get there. I made a promise to Booger that last day, I'll become the master you'll be proud to be owned by."

"I'm not worried, Dad. I'm already proud of you but one thing Master Red told me before he went into coma was, 'Son, your Dad has grown up. I have gently demanded, for your sake, he grow up and become the master you need. Trust me, Sonny, he will.' We'll both miss him a lot, Dad."

I saw Boots and Sonny sitting together and decided to join them with my third piece of pie. I motioned for Dan to join me. Griz and my master's brother, Bro Red sat down. Then Walker, Xander, and my dad and uncle Joe sat down with us. Then along came Beryl, Bull, Master Earl, Wes, and Master Jeb. Big Ben and Ben Jr. joined us, too. They sensed something was up. We sat across from Boots. Sonny moved around to sit next to his dad. They met Dan when he first arrived after the funeral on Friday. Sonny and I have the same taste in men and he thought Dan was another walking wet dream. Sonny flipped over Griz earlier. Griz was sitting as close to him as he could with his arm around Sonny hugging him close. He couldn't believe the way Griz followed Dan and I around like a puppy dog. Dan already knew and loved Griz and encouraged him to be with us. Dan even asked if he was the giant man Buck told me about who would need me. I told him, yes, without a doubt. The Old Man even told me so, but I ain't said a word to Griz. Dan understood. He wouldn't say a word, but was again stunned what I told him might be coming true.

"You guys gonna' follow us to Tucson?" I asked Boots.

"We'd love to. I'll stay one night then dad said I could come back and help him and Joe at the garage. I'm sending Sonny on to Los Angeles with Jeb and Jim to enter training. I guess you heard, Booger paid for Sonny's training before we left on our trip." Everyone at the table 'Oohhed' and congratulated Boots and Sonny. Of course, Master Jeb and Big Jim knew.

"Booger didn't say a word to me about it all those months, but dad told me right after he passed," I told them, "I think it's wonderful. It's something Master Red would do because he loved you and Sonny. He was adamant Sonny go through training. I'm so proud of him for doing that."

"Congratulations, Boots, Sonny, that's great news," Dan told them.

"Sure is guys, we're happy for you," I assured Boots and Sonny.

I reached in my pocket and got Booger's pen knife and the keys to his Harley to give Sonny.

"Sonny, Booger gave me something to give you, he wanted you to have."

I placed Booger's pen knife on the table for Sonny and he started crying. His dad held him, and he finally picked it up.

"Thanks, Cowboy. I'll cherish this forever. You sure you don't want it?" he asked.

"No, Sonny, he wanted you to have it. You gave him that years ago, didn't you Bro Red?" I asked Booger's brother.

"May I, Sonny?" Bro. Red asked, held out his hand, and Sonny gave it to him,

"Well, I'll be damned. That's the little knife I gave him on his tenth birthday. I'd forgotten about it," he said like he was remembering something wonderful. He handed it back to Sonny, "Hang on to that, Son. It will always be a treasure for you. I'm glad my brother left it to you. You deserve it," Bro Red said.

"Thanks, Mr. Grainger, I will always cherish it," Sonny said.

Our Master had two things he wanted you to have, Sonny. His brother, Bro Red and I want you to have them, too. Here's the other thing he wanted you to have." I laid the keys to Booger's Harley on the table."

"Oh, my God," said Boots, "He didn't...?" It hadn't hit Sonny yet because it was so unexpected. "It's the keys to Master Red's Harley, Son," Boots said to Sonny in a soft voice.

"He, he, wanted me to... oh God, Cowboy, I miss him so Goddamn much already, it hurts in my gut," Sonny said and broke down into heart tugging sobs in his dad's arms. We tried to consoled him as best we could. He was leaning heavily on his dad who was having his own struggles trying to stay strong for me and Sonny.

"Easy there, Sonny," I calmed him, "It's our master's way of telling you how much he loved you. Accept it, ride it, take good care of it. Your Master would be proud to know you're riding it."

"What can I say, Cowboy? Dad knows I don't mean him any disrespect, I love him with all my heart, and I know you love me. You were so generous to share Master Red with me, but I think of Booger Red as my first master. I'll never forget him. It's because of you and Master Red that the person I most wanted for a master has decided to make me his slave. I owe a lot to you and Master Red."

"Don't need to say nothing to me, Little Brother. You don't owe me nothing but your love, and I know I got that. If'n you really want to thank him, before you leave, you and Boots ride out to the cemetery and thank him. Tell him exactly what you told us. He'll hear you, he'll know. Trust me, I've had experience in that area."

"He's telling you the truth, Son. I never believed him until it happened before my eyes and six of our family members. You can take that one to the bank. Trust Cowboy, Booger Red will hear you," Dan added knowingly. Several family members added their support to Dan's statement. Master Jeb, Big Jim, Big Beryl, Dan, Wes, Bull and Charlie all witnessed something happen in a cemetery in Tucson over three years ago that couldn't be explained by this world's standards.

"God himself was afoot," said Master Jeb.

* * * * * * *
Booger Red's funeral was on a Friday and following my master's final order to me, the next Tuesday, early in the morning, before the sun was up, we loaded my bike into the back of Dan Yates' truck. Dan, Ben, Tim, Boots, Sonny and I rode out to Phil and Wilma Jo's to get Uncle Bud's old truck and horse trailer. We loaded Dolly and Madison and hooked the trailer to the back of the truck. We drove back into town to join my family at the diner for breakfast. Phil, Wilma Jo and the kids followed us in. We had a good time at breakfast. Seems everyone in town knew Cowboy was trading in his motorcycle for a horse, his boots, and spurs. He was going to be a buckaroo on Dan Yates' ranch in Tucson. Everyone came to wish us well. Their were many tears shed to see me go. I picked up the tab for our family's breakfast and tipped Louise and Susie well. They made me promise to come home first chance I got. They loved me and were so sorry for my loss.

My dad was thrilled Dan and I were getting together. I told him it was what Booger wanted and made me promise I would. "Old Booger knew you pretty well, Son. He talked with me several times and was pretty level headed about everything. He wasn't unaware of your love for Dan, but Booger impressed on me several times, you never mentioned Dan's name all the time you were with him. Booger said you never gave him any reason to doubt your love for him. He did say you were stubborn as a team of twenty mules, but that translated into your honesty. You were as honest as you were stubborn. He finally stopped doubting anything you told him of a miraculous nature. He laughed when he told me how many times you proved him wrong. You would've grieved for Booger for a year or more before you went near Dan and that man loves you too much to make him wait any longer. Booger was right to make you promise to obey his order. You gave that biker almost four years of your life, and you two crammed more love and memories in that four years others can only imagine.

"You shouldn't feel you're denying Booger by going to Dan. He'll never ask you not to grieve for your master, but with Dan you'll be less likely to obsess. He can help you through this. Lean on him, Son, he's a big man, he'll understand. It'll only bring you closer, and he'll love you that much more for needing him. Dan's never been jealous of your love for Booger. He told me when you left it broke his heart to see you go, but he admired you all the more for honoring a prior commitment. He understood why you had to be with Booger.

“He told me Buck came to him and explained. When Dan heard the news about Booger he broke down and wept for him. The money you sent him every year from your family stipend has overwhelmed him with your love. Tim has sent him equal amounts. Ben has been generous with Dan to a fault. He loves Dan as much as the rest of us. For birthdays and Christmas, Ben's bought him some of the finest breeding stock in the United States. He's imported breeding stock for Dan. Right now, Dan Yates is one the top ranchers in the U.S. He told me and Joe since he's had more money to operate from he's made record profits from the ranch this last two years. Besides that, Dan owns you now. You're his property."

"Gee, when the Old Man dropped by to console me he told me Dan Yates owned me now. I was his slave. I didn't understand, but I knew better'n to ask," I said.

"I worried when you wanted to be recognized by our family as Booger's slave, but I realize now you done the right thing. Booger called me to asked my blessing before he allowed you to go through with it. He, too, was concerned for you becoming a recognized slave by our family. It was something he didn't take lightly, and he fully understood the ramifications. I told him if he was convinced that's what you wanted, you both had my blessing. Booger didn't have to have my blessing. You didn't either. You're an adult now. You've certainly earned the right to make your own decisions; I respect that, but it was sweet and thoughtful of Booger to take your old man feelings and thoughts into consideration. Booger was from the old school where manners and consideration of others was important, especially where family was concerned. That's why, at your ceremony, I was honored to give you to him as his slave.

"As your recognized master, Booger had the right to leave you to another master within our family. Booger gave me your slave contract to hold for him. He completed the transfer of property clause, leaving you to one of our family members. Booger signed it before three family witness the day you became his slave. I was one of the witnesses, Son. It was his idea, Billy. I told Booger a couple of years ago our family voted Dan in as a member. Booger remembered, and he left you to Dan. It would become effective only in the event of his death. I told him my concerns but would've never suggested to Booger he leave you to Dan. He knew his future was unsure, but he loved you enough to make sure his slave was loved and well taken care of. You now belong to Dan Yates, lock, stock and cowboy butt. Even if Booger hadn't left you to Dan, you don't think you'd be free to go your merry way, do you? You became a slave to our family as well as Booger."

"I ain't really thought about it, Dad, I've had so much on my mind, but you're right, I would belong to our family. I would expect to be sold to another master. If that happened, it might not be Dan I'd be going to live with. Damn! Booger done that for me? I'm..." Dad took me in his arms and held me.

"I know, Son. It's all right. He was a true master, Billy, he took his role seriously. You allowed him to become the master he wanted to be. To the last, Red was your master and owner. You were right to trust him. Your master knew what was best for his slave. It's all right, Sweet Buckaroo. I gave Dan your contract, ownership papers and collar. I never told Dan, Booger left you to him, but I called him and urged him and Mrs. Russell to come to the wake Friday afternoon.

“I borrowed him from you for a while that afternoon. Dan asked me, before I showed him your contract with Booger, when you'd be put on the market for sale and how much he should bid. He was fully prepared to buy you for himself. I told him there would be no auction. I sat him down, here, at the kitchen table, told him Booger entrusted me with his most precious piece of property and to make damn sure Dan Yates got it.

“Dan was surprised Booger would leave him anything since they never met. I handed him your slave contract and told him to read the final page. He read the clause at the bottom of your contract that transfers title of ownership to him with Booger's signature. Then he understood Booger left you to him. Well, that big cowboy broke down and sobbed he was so touched. Since Booger left you to him, I thought Booger would've wanted him here for his wake. He would've loved Dan. Too bad they never met. Oh, by the way, Son, your original contract with Booger remains the same with Dan. Since Dan inherited you, there is no renegotiation possible."

"I wouldn't want it any other way, Dad. My master was a remarkable man. I just wish I'd recognized it sooner and been better to him." I said hanging my head.

"Billy-three, you done damn good by old Booger. He never faulted you for a minute. He only had glowing words when he talked about you. His whole ugly face would light up like a damn Christmas tree, and for a second, a very quick second, mind you, I could imagine Booger Red was a good looking man." My old man roared at his joke, and he got me laughing. We needed to lighten the conversation.

* * * * * * *
Ben and Tim rode with me back to Tucson following Dan and Mrs. Russell. Sometimes we changed off and Mrs. Russell would ride with me and Tim, and Ben would ride with Dan. We were followed by a double line of motorcycles twenty-five to thirty deep. We looked like a cross between the 'Grapes of Wrath' and the 'Wild Ones' convoy. It seemed like a short trip, because we had so much to talk about and catch up on.

Tim was growing into a sophisticated man of the world. He had dual citizenship and was a recognized member of the royal family of Bahrain. Ben made sure official documents were drawn up to show my dual citizenship as well. I, too, was a recognized member of the royal family. Poor Steve never made it to princess status, but he settled for being royalty. Except Cal jokingly referred to him as his 'The Princess Slave' and his rear as his 'royal high-nee.' Steve didn't give a damn what Cal called him as long as the big man needed Steve to serve him. He was devoted to his big handsome master and for all his guff, Cal's love and appreciation for his slave grew stronger by the year.

The first thing I had to do upon getting to the ranch in Tucson was visit Buck's grave. I wasn't going to cry this time. I was fine. I went alone and took flowers. I took a hoe and shovel to clean any weeds or debris. It was a beautiful day, and I talked to Buck like he was there. I told him how much I missed Booger, him, and the celestial cowpokes. I was sad to lose my master but happy to be with his dad and none of them had to worry about me.

Booger knew what he was doing when he made me promise to be with Dan. I think he knew if I started grieving for him I wouldn't want to go to Dan. Booger knew Dan was a compassionate man and wouldn't ask our family to force a man to get his act together and be his slave. I thank God, Booger told me in Reno that one time to either shit or get off the pot. I loved him all the more for that. Suddenly, in the still summer air, a cool blast of air surrounded me and I heard Booger's deep, gravelly voice whisper on the wind. "Be happy, Cowboy, that's all I ever wanted for you. I trained you to be a damn fine slave. Serve Dan Yates well. He's a man of great worth, a man of great love, and you deserve that." My knees buckled under me, and I started crying.

"Damn you, Booger! I was doing all right. Fuck!" I yelled in mock indignation, laughing at him, with tears streaming down my face, "Now you done gone and made me cry again." I composed myself and spoke softly, "Thanks, Booger, for everything; especially, leaving me to Dan. That's the kind of man and master you were. You always took care of your slave and knew what was best for him. You know I love you. I always will and, oh, yes, Dear Master, thanks for giving your slave what he needed all those times. It meant a lot, sir." After that, I was okay. I knew I could visit either grave, and be all right. They never left me. He and Buck were still looking over my shoulder. Only, now, the two of them were nudging, winking at each other, slapping each on the backs, and laughing their asses off at some crazy thing I'd find myself doing. No one can help you say goodbye. Then again, you don't really have to, they're never really gone.

* * * * * * *
We were together for three months when Dan and I drove to Los Angeles for Sonny's graduation, slave ceremony, and to visit Master Jeb and Big Jim. It was another quiet, intimate family affair. Yeah, right! With my dad's grandson being given into slavery to his number two son. Fat chance for intimate or quiet. Ben grew to love Boots and Sonny as much as the rest of us and once again had Harry pull out all the stops. We partied for several days and then took the party to the desert to Master Zack's. They invited everybody out to the desert for the weekend to celebrate our newest master and slave in our family, Master Boots and his slave Sonny. His dad became his master in every sense of the word. Boots had come far. My dad and Walker picked up Boot's training and education as a master where Booger left off. By the time Sonny finished training, his new master was ready for him. Boots had indeed grown up. His slave was happy beyond measure.

We drove out to the desert and the family came to party at Master Zack's. Everyone in the family came and Big Beryl brought his new slave. I damn near shit my pants when I saw who his new slave was. Blaine took one look at me and we were in each other's arms laughing, hugging, and kissing. Blaine was laughing at me for cutting T-bo and the rest of the family was wondering what the Hell he was talking about.

"I take it you two have met," Big Beryl asked wryly.

"You might say that, Master Beryl," I laughingly told him.

They were staying with Master Zack and looking for a place. I had the deed and map to the small cabin Booger left me not far from there in Morongo Valley. Dan and I wanted to see it and thought a little side trip might be nice. We ask a couple of folks to go with us. Practically the whole damn family jumped on their bikes or in a pickup truck and followed. We drove our truck with Master Earl, Wes, Beryl, Blaine, Zack, Bull, and Charlie all piled in the back. Master Jeb and Big Jim followed on their bikes and everyone else followed them.

We found the gate, and I opened it since I had the key. We drove through and had to drive about a mile back into some boulders before we came to the top of a small mountain. There was a beautiful little two bedroom cabin nestled among the rocks. It looked like no one was there in years. I unlocked the door and we went inside. There wasn't much furniture, but it was a solidly built concrete block cabin and hadn't been vandalized. There was a hot water spring bubbling up out of the ground behind the house and running off into the desert to disappear underground again. It was spacious and when we opened all the windows it was airy.

The most amazing thing we discovered quite by accident. Someone stumbled over a big padlock behind the house. They tried to pick it up and it was attached to something. They began to clear the sand and dirt away and called for us, Dan, Beryl, and Blaine to come see. There was a metal door that was covered over with dirt and sand. Only the lock was barely above ground. We cleared away the dirt and though the door was metal it was still in decent shape. The lock was old and rusted but with a tire iron and a couple of large rocks we managed to convince it to break.

I bravely told Beryl he had to go in first. He laughed as we opened the door. There were concrete stairs leading down into a basement which was the size of the entire house. It was finished too. Someone used it. It was filled with junk and even had an old Indian motorcycle stored down there. It was an enormous room. Beryl and Blaine were agog. It was unusual for a house in Southern California to have a basement let alone one in the desert. Beryl and Blaine fell in love with it. No one knew Booger owned a cabin in this area and we never found out how he came by it. I didn't know what we would do with it. I got Dan aside. "What do you wanna’ do with this place, Dad?" I asked.

"It's yours, Cowboy. Do what you want with it. It's kinda far for us to take care of, and it's ashamed to let it be unoccupied," he said, smiled, and I read his mind. I knew exactly what he was thinking. We were standing around, having a beer Big Jim and some of the others picked up on the way. Everyone was going through the little cabin and talking with each other about the place. We were outside sitting on the tail gate of our pickup.

"You wanna’ sell it, Cowboy?" Big Beryl asked me.

"Why? You and Blaine interested in it, Master Beryl?" I asked.

"We've been looking but ain't found nothing this big, this nice, or this private around here. It's dirty as Hell, but with a little elbow grease and two weekends with the family out here, we could make it livable and downright comfortable."

"Naw, I don't wanna’ sell it," I replied. I sat there for a minute watching Beryl shake his head in disappointment and look down at his boots, "but if you and Blaine want it, I'll sign the deed over to you for a dollar." Everyone got so quiet you could heard heard the horn toads fucking in the desert.

"Don't be fooling with me, Cowboy," Beryl said.

"Gimme' a dollar and find out, Old Man," I said and grinned real big at him. Big Beryl whipped out a dollar faster than a flea on a dog. I got a pen and signed the deed over to him. Everyone roared with laughter and applauded. They were patting us on the back and Big Beryl hugged and kissed Dan and me.

"You always have been one of the most generous men I ever know'd, Cowboy, in more ways than one. God love ya', Son, I know I sure as Hell do. You and Dan will always be welcome here. We'll give ya'll a set of keys and you don't never have to call, just come," he declared and laughed as he hugged me and spun me around. Damn, he was a big man. "Oh, by the way, Cowboy, you just passed initiation," he bellowed with laughter as I hugged him again.

"I better not have, Old Man, or I'll take that deed back pert-damn quick. Besides you don't wanna' see a cowboy cry, do you? H'it ain't real pur-tie," I said sadly.

"Then, Son, you're just gonna' have to keep doing it 'til you get it right," he declared. Everybody laughed.

"I love you, Clan Master, I'm so happy for you and Blaine. You picked a pretty one, Master. I always thought Blaine would make a good slave for some good master, but I always thought he was a real cunt-hound," I said.

"Oh, he was, kept fucking them cunts after he gave himself to be my slave. I done told him he'd better obey his master or I was gonna' see to it he never went with another woman. He wouldn't listen, didn't think his master was serious, but I was. I took care of that little problem pert-damn quick. Don't think he'll ever have the urge to fuck another cunt again, but I think he's a lot prettier now," Beryl allowed and snapped his fingers at Blaine. "Drop your pants, Slave!" Big Beryl barked at his slave.

"Awwh, Master, please," Blaine pleaded. Big Beryl turned to Blaine and gave him a look that spoke volumes. It said, 'You better not hesitate a moment longer obeying that order, Slave, especially in front of our family. You will be severely punished. You neither want to know how much nor how bad but I guaran-damn-tee-ya' you'll never hesitate to obey another order I give you.' Blaine saw the look.

"I'm sorry, Master, I was wrong. You taught me to be a better slave than that. Please forgive me, sir," Blaine asked contritely as he quickly began to undo his leather pants and dropped them. Dan and I both gasped. Blaine no longer had his beautiful cock and balls. They were gone. Instead, Blaine had a small but prefect little cunt. It was beautiful and I found out later, first hand, it worked perfectly. Big Beryl finally had a cunt that could take all of him. He had it built to his specifications. The surgeons worked with a flexible foam poured into a plaster cast of Beryl's cock as a template to build Blaine's cunt around. For the second time in my life I had no words. I was dumbstruck. Thank God my master came through for us.

"Don't know what you're so damn shy about Blaine. It's one of the prettiest little cunts I ever seen. 'Course I ain't seen that many, but from the looks of it I think you should be downright proud of it; proud yore' master loved you enough to make you live up to your commitment to be his slave. Your master did the right thing and you should be grateful to him," my master said without compromise. Dan motioned for Blaine to come closer so he could examine his new little cunt. Dan played with it a few minutes and petted it. I thought Blaine was going to take my master's hand. Blaine suddenly got a euphoric look on his face the more my master played with his cunt. Then Dan pulled Blaine to him, hugged him, and kissed him on the mouth.

"Maybe some evening when the moon is right, if your good and gracious master might wanna' trade slaves with me, I think I might like to take that tight little cunt for a test drive," my master said

"I'd be honored, Master Dan," Blaine spoke softly as he looked into Dan's eyes. Beryl beamed with pride.

"Well, chances are better than pretty good, Dan. That boy of yours just can't seem to pass his initiation and there's no tell'n how many more times I might have to give him another chance," Beryl bellowed and everyone laughed.

Damnation! My master astounded me. A chill ran up my back and I stood a little taller because I was this big cowboy's slave. I was proud to walk by his side. He said that like a true master. Good for him. While I was off being Booger's slave, Dan didn't let the grass grow under his feet. I heard rumors he was steadily learning how to be a master from the best. He made a believer out of me that afternoon. I made it a point to refer to him more often in front of our family as Master Dan, paid homage to his boots a bit more often, too.

"I'm trying to be proud of my new self, Master Dan," Blaine said to my master's strong words, "It's my first time being a slave, and well, I don't blame my master either. He warned me and warned me. He told me exactly what he would do, but I didn't believe him. It was my own fuck'n fault. You're right, Master Dan, I made a commitment to my master and thought I could get away with the shit I'd always been doing. He told me not to become his slave unless I was serious and gave up the cunts.

“He told me he wouldn't tolerate it, and if I persisted he would see to it I was corrected. I knew the consequences signing his slave contract. I signed it without any clause, and it says right in the contract he has the right to alter my body if he chooses. It was read to me and gone over twice with me. I still wanted to become his slave, but I wasn't willing to give up the other. I gave him my word, I would give them up. So I accept the responsibility, it was my fault.

"When they had me on the operating table about to put me under I was more worried whether he was gonna' keep me for his slave than I was losing my cock and balls. Master Beryl gimme' a choice. Complete nullo or he'd have 'em build me a cunt. I figured a cunt might bring him pleasure so I told the doctors, make it a cunt and make it a big one. They did a good job. It works just like a real one.

“Now I know how the women felt when I crawled on top of 'em to honor them with my cock. Hell, it works just fine. I shoot my load every time my master fucks me, only now, I have to depend on my master fucking me to get me off. I can’t jack-off no more. That's become his way of controlling me. If I'm not a good slave he cuts off my cock... no pun intended. What I mean is, if he don't fuck me for a week or two at a time. I get so fucking horny I'm humping door knobs. Of course, I still have to suck him off three or four times a day. The extra testosterone from his come plus my own makes me so fucking horny. Finally, when I crawl on my belly to his boots, admit I was a bad slave, I've learned my lesson and promise never to do it again, he'll take pity on me and fuck me."

"Do you miss having a cock?" I asked him.

"How long you known my master, Cowboy?" he asked with a knowing grin, "He don't leave me alone long enough to miss my dick. That old man fucks me morning, noon, and night." Blaine laughed and looked at his master to see if he could pull his pants up. Beryl smiled proudly at him and nodded approval.

"Well, shit!" I said in disgust.

"What's wrong, Son?" Big Beryl asked me concerned.

"Guess that means you won't be need'n no more cowboy butt," I lamented.

"Oh, Hell yes, Sweet Baby, how else you gonna' pass initiation?" the big man asked.

"Hey! That's great news, Master Beryl, 'cause my Master just bought me a brand new pair of spurs, and I been looking forward to break'n 'em in."

"Oh fuck," said Big Beryl, "I'm a dead man for sure."

Master Beryl winked at my master and kissed me. Everyone laughed. Big Beryl laughed the hardest. That old man hugged me so long I thought they were going to have to pry us apart. We didn't waste time. Everyone pitched in and started cleaning. By the time we left it looked pretty damn good. I told Big Beryl to get a quit claim deed at a stationary shop, and I would quit claim it over to him. He could either get a realtor to help him or go directly to the county records office and ask them how to record a quit claim deed. I couldn't have done a better thing. My master was pleased. He was proud of me. Beryl and Blaine were thrilled with the place. They lived there for many years until Beryl passed away and many parties were held for the family at that desert cabin. Many of them, Dan and I attended. He knew how much I loved Beryl and Blaine. I remembered how much Master Red loved Beryl. I knew old Booger was smiling.

End Chapter 23 ~ Booger Red & Cowboy
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12/22/2015