Cabbage Patch Cowboy
By Waddie Greywolf

 Chapter 5

One morning, a couple of days after Christmas Buck made a phone call. Waddie overheard him talking to a man about a pony. The man he was talking to raised and trained roping ponies. Buck asked if he and his nephew might drive out that morning, meet him, his family, and take a look at his stock. The man was Dan Justin.  Dan and his wife Jimmy Sue bought the ranch next to Morgan's and moved in the same day Waddie was rushed to the hospital.

"Come on, cowboy," Buck hollered to Waddie, "come take a ride with me out to the Justin place. I need to see a man about a horse. You can meet their boy. What ju' say his name was?" Buck asked.

"George Gipson Gentry Justin," Waddie replied.

Waddie was all for it as long as he didn't have to stop by Morgan's place. He knew you couldn't see any of the buildings on the Justin place from Morgan's except an old barn which was situated almost on the property line at one time. It was still in fair shape, and was used for storage as late as a couple of years ago. He and his Uncle Buck took Buck's pickup truck. It wasn't a new truck, but it wasn't an old truck either. She was a mature lady, as Buck described her. She definitely had personality. Buck name it Bertha May Come-a-long. Waddie shortened it to Bert, and then Buck started calling her Bertie because, he insisted 'it' was a 'she.' Pa Claymore decided to call her Bertie May Bendover because she'd been rear ended a couple of times, and the step bumper near the tail pipe was askew. Poor thing, she got so paranoid she didn't know what to answer to.

It was really cold that Christmas, but the two days following were beautiful and much warmer. It was still cool enough to wear a light jacket. Waddie wore a pair of his new Wranglers, a nice western shirt, his new boots his Aunt Linda bought him for Christmas, and was ready to go. He saw his uncle was going to wear his enormous felt cowboy hat, and marveled at how handsome he looked in his Western clothes. He wanted to look just like him. 'That's the way a man should look,' Waddie thought. Buck looked at his little buddy. "Grab your hat, Son. If’n we's gonna' be cowboys, we gotta' look the part," he said.

Waddie liked the idea and ran to get his hat. It was the same color as his uncle's, and he thought he looked really good in it. When he and his uncle stood in front of the mirror they got a shock. Buck looked at Waddie in the mirror and back at himself. Waddie looked at his uncle and back at himself. Neither could believe what they were seeing. They turned slowly to look at each other and looked back into the mirror. Neither wanted to say anything, because they weren't sure what the other was thinking. They turned away from the mirror and walked half-dazed out the door. They got downstairs, and Ma and Pa Claymore were having coffee in the living room.  When Buck and Waddie entered the room Buck's parents were visibly shaken.

"Hoe-leey shit!" Pa Claymore exclaimed, and he never cursed around his wife. That was unusual. "You men wait here a minute while I grab my camera, I gotta' get me a picture of this," he said.

"Com’mer, darling,'" Ma Claymore motioned to Waddie. She had a pair of small scissors in her apron pocket and cut several loose strings from his Wranglers and shirt. Pa Claymore returned with his camera and sat down for a minute to finish his coffee.

"Mom, Dad, Waddie and I couldn't believe what we were looking at in the mirror. Neither of us could say anything. You had the same reaction we did. Waddie ain't said a word. What did you think when we looked in the mirror upstairs, cowboy?" Buck asked.

"Like I was looking at a wallet size photo of you, Uncle Buck," Waddie replied.

Pa Claymore took them outdoors where the light was better and took several shots of them together. In one picture Buck's holding Waddie in his arms looking at him, and Waddie's looking at Buck. Everyone who saw the picture asked for a copy.

Buck and Waddie took off for the twelve mile ride to the Justin ranch. They were in great spirits. Buck was in one of his playful moods, and Waddie knew he had to stay on his toes, because you never knew when the bullshit would start to fly. He had to admit, though, he loved Buck more than ever when he was in one of his playful moods. He'd let his little boy come out and play with his buddy. They'd laugh and giggle at the damnedest things. Waddie was learning fast how to sling a little bull himself. His uncle had to check himself, because he wasn't really sure whether the kid was serious or not. Today, Waddie couldn't be serious about anything.

"You know why cowboy hats are turned up on the sides, honcho?" Buck asked him. Waddie knew that grin.

"No, sir, Uncle Buck, why?" Waddie responded.

"So three or more can ride in a pickup," Buck said.

Waddie thought that was funny. It was one of his uncle's better attempts at humor. He laughed and giggled almost all the way to the Justin place. They pulled in, up and around behind the house. Dan Justin, his wife and boy came out the back door to greet them.

"How do, Mr. Justin, Mrs. Justin, I'm Buck Claymore and this here good looking cowboy's my nephew, Waddie Lovejoy," Buck hailed them.

"Call me Dan, Buck, and it's good to meet you, young man," Waddie shook Mr. Justin's hand.

"Good to meet you, too, Mr. Justin... Mrs. Justin." Waddie  was polite, but he couldn't take his eyes off their boy. He knew he was his new buddy, and his heart almost jumped out of his body. Waddie thought he was the best looking kid he ever saw. He walked slowly toward the boy and George Gipson Gentry Justin stuck out his hand to shake Waddie's. The three adults were watching intently to see what would happen.

"Hi, Waddie, I'm George," the handsome boy introduced himself.

"No you ain't," Waddie said slowly but determined with all the love from his heart his words could muster, "You're my best buddy, you’re my brother, you're 'Gip,'" he said firmly. Waddie took Gip into his arms, hugged him to himself, then spoke quietly with conviction, "You don't never shake your brother's hand, Gip; you give him a hug, a kiss, then tell him you love him. You're gonna' be my best buddy, Son," Waddie said and kissed the boy on his cheek, "I love you, Gip. I'm so damn glad we finally got to meet each other," Waddie said. Gip didn't know what to do, but he was so taken with Waddie's openness and strength of resolve he fell under Waddie's spell. Gip melted into Waddie's larger arms. He didn't know why he was compelled to return this boy's unusual greeting, but he could sense nothing but love and gentleness of purpose emanating from the young cowboy who held him. Waddie held him tight enough to surround him with his love but not so tight he felt consumed or threatened by such an expression.

Gip surprised himself when he hugged Waddie back, kissed him on the cheek, and heard his own words come freely from his heart. "If you love me, then I love you, too, Waddie, and you can't know how glad I am you're here. What took ya' s'damn long?" Gip asked, and they shared a laugh. Gip never said those words to anyone and meant them more than he did at that moment. He knew he loved this cowboy and he knew his cowboy, his brother, his new, best buddy Waddie, loved him.  There was no doubt in his mind. 'After all,' he thought, 'cowboys don't never tell no lies.' Waddie had to be the best looking young cowpoke Gip ever saw. Here he was calling him buddy and calling him by the first part of his second name. 'Why the Hell didn't I think of that?' Gip thought to himself, 'That's the name I wanna' be called. I ain't no George. I'm my buddy's new best buddy, his brother, and by God, if he wants to call me 'Gip,' he can. Hell, this kid can call me 'flapjack' if'n he wanted to, and I'd answer to it.' At that moment the young cowboy knew he never wanted to be called anything else but 'Gip.' It might take some convincing with his parents, but they were good and understanding. If he truly felt strongly about something, they'd at least listen and discuss it with him. They weren't unreasonable. The three adults were dumbfounded as the two boys walked away, arms around each other, deep in conversation. They seemed like two old friends who had only been apart for ten minutes and picked up their conversation where they left off.

A tear rolled down Dan Justin's cheek. "Well, I'll be damned," he said in awe, "Ju' see that, honey? What do you make of it? I swear I ain't never seen nothing like 'at afore in my life. That was amazing. You say Waddie's yore' nephew, Buck?" Dan asked.

"Yes, sir, but we're not blood relations. He's my best friend Morgan Lovejoy's boy. Morgan owns the ranch next door," Buck said and motioned with his head.

"Waddie's Mr. Lovejoy's son?" Jimmy Sue asked Buck.

"Yes, ma'am," Buck replied.

"When you got out of the truck, we thought he was your boy. What'd I say to you, Dan?" Jimmy Sue asked her husband.

"She laughed and said, well if it ain't big Buck and little Buck. I thought he was your kid, too," Dan supported Jimmy Sue.

"We get that a lot lately. My parents damn near had a fit when we came downstairs wearing our cowboy clothes. My pa ran and got his camera and took several pictures," Buck declared.

"We've been so worried about George because he's been withdrawn and depressed since we moved here. He moaps around all day not doing much of anything. He used to follow me around like a puppy dog and help me. He was a lot of company for me. We was more like buddies than father and son. Now I can't get him to do nothing. This move took him away from all his friends in the other town we're from, and he don't have nobody to play with out here. I never seen him welcome someone into his world like he jes' done. He's usually guarded, reserved, and standoffish until he knows somebody a little better," Dan said.

"He ain't never met Waddie before," Buck laughed, "he has that effect on people. If that kid decides you're gonna' like him, there ain't a' thing you can do about it," Buck said and laughed, "Waddie was in the hospital when I got back from the service. He was admitted the same day you moved in here. The night I walked into that hospital room and his eyes met mine, it was all over. I fell in love with the kid right there. I knew I had no choice but to see that kid's life was set right," Buck said with conviction.

"Hell, Buck, looks to me like those two've know'd each other all their lives. Look at 'em. They can't talk to each other fast enough and can't take their hands off each other," Dan Justin said, seemingly thrilled the boys were off and running in a new friendship.

"Dan, Jimmy Sue, I think we witnessed something special here today, and to be honest, the main reason for coming out here was to get them two together. Waddie needs a buddy his age to relate to, and it would appear your boy does, too. I don't mind bragging about Waddie, 'cause he ain't my kid, but yore’ boy couldn't have no finer young man for a buddy. I expect to have kids of my own one day, but I doubt I'll love ‘em any more'n I do that boy. Not because he's my best friend's, my brother's child, but because of who his is. There's an old man inside his five year old body. I also came out here to see the ponies, but this needed to be done," Buck explained.

"Well, come on in the house, Buck, and have a cup of coffee, a beer, or whatever you want," Dan offered.

"Iced tea, Jimmy Sue?" Buck asked.

"No problem, Buck," she replied.

They sat down at the kitchen table and Buck started. "Well, you may have to get used to a new name for your boy. I can promise you after today he won't answer to George no more," Buck said. They both looked puzzled and Buck explained. He told them the whole story of Waddie's near death experience, the angel telling Waddie about the boy who was moving into the ranch next door, what his name was, but Waddie would call him 'Gip.' His middle name is Gipson, right?" Buck asked.

"Nobody 'round here knows his full name. How ju' know that, Buck?" Dan asked.

"I sure as hell do. It's George Gipson Gentry Justin," Buck rattled off. Buck thought Jimmy Sue was going to drop the sugar bowl, and Dan choked on his iced tea.  "The angel told Waddie his name, and we done know'd it now for month or more. That boy talked to an angel, and it was the same angel what saved my life on Iwo Jima. The angel who helped me, told me his name, and the night I met Waddie he told me he talked with an angel who said he was a friend of mine. He whispered the name of the angel who saved me, and he was right. How could a five year old kid know that? I didn't tell nobody that story since I got back. I thought people would think I’s crazy," Buck said. Dan and Jimmy Sue shook their heads. "But, I'll tell you what... my life changed after that angel touched me, and the only way I can describe to you how I felt was, I was blessed. He told me I couldn't die, I had a son to live for. Shore’ 'nuff, I no sooner get home when Morgan asked me to be Waddie's Godfather. Hell, he even named Waddie after me. His middle name's Claymore," Buck bragged.

"You know what, hon?' Jimmy Sue asked her husband, "I know George was your dad's name, but I sure like the name 'Gip,'"

Dan looked at his wife kinda funny and smiled. "Yeah, so do I," Dan reluctantly admitted, "'Sides, how many cowboys you know named George? I guess we could leave it up to him. Hell, if left up to me, I'd rather be known as 'Gip' than just plain George myself. I'll be honest with you, honey, I sometimes regret giving him dad's name. Dad and I never got along very well, and I gave him my father's name to try'n bridge the gap between us. Never did. My old man went to his grave hating me.  I'm beginning to believe a kid's name could possibly shape his personality. If that's true, I sure as hell don't want him ending up a bitter, hateful old man like my dad. I certainly wouldn't have any problem with it. Let's wait and see what he says. See if he asks us to start calling him Gip," Dan Justin said to his wife.

"They start school this year together. At least they'll have each other to help them adjust," Jimmy Sue added.

"How long's Waddie staying with you, Buck?" Dan asked.

"Well, maybe you good folks heard, Linda Sue Davenport and I are engaged. We's git'n married the second weekend in June. Morgan ask me a couple weeks ago, before Christmas, if I'd mind keeping Waddie 'til we got married. I told him it was more'n fine with me. He could leave him longer if he wanted. My parents treat him better'n they treated me. My dad lets him do things he never let me do. He spoils him rotten. That's not bad, because the kid could do with a little spoiling from the life he's been living. Ma and Pa would gladly take care of him 'til Linda Sue and I got back from our honeymoon. Then there's Waddie's grandparents, the Lovejoys, what ain't got to see much of Waddie, 'cause Morgan's wife Judy hates them and won't let Waddie see them.

"They seen more of Waddie since he's been with me than they have in the last five years, and they idolize the kid. Morgan wouldn't care if'n he stayed a week with them. Linda Sue fell in love with him, and she wants him to live with us. I ain't got me no problem with it whatsoever. I'd raise the kid as my own if Morgan would let me, but Waddie has a say in this, too, and for all we come to mean to each other, he misses his dad. He may choose to go back and live with him. I ain't gonna' try to influence the boy one way or t'other," Buck said and was quiet for a minute, "Would you folks like me to tell you another lie?" he asked Dan and Jimmy Sue with a big grin. They broke up at Buck's honesty. "Has Morgan been over to welcome you folks?" Buck asked.

"Yeah, he stopped by a couple of days after we moved in, and told us his boy was in the hospital. He tried to be up, but we could tell he was worried. He didn't stay long; said he just wanted to be neighborly and welcome us. It was nice of him. We appreciated it. We ain't met his wife and other two kids. We seen 'em from time to time when we drive by. They never wave or seem very friendly, and of course, we've heard talk. Is Waddie the boy whose mother gave all his clothes and toys away?" Dan asked.

"'Fraid so, Dan. I can't say anything. Morgan and I are closer than any brothers could be. We think of ourselves as brothers. My parents think of Morgan as their son, and his parents think of me as their son. I love his parents, too. Them folks have been damn good to me over the years. I'd do anything in the world for 'em. That's why I ain't got me no problem with them seeing their grandson, and Waddie loves them, too. I don't know what's going on in Morgan's household, but it ain't none of my business. All I know is 'zat boy out there ain't had no easy go of it. You wouldn't believe the stories he's told me. At first, I didn't know whether to believe him or not. Now, I would believe any damn thing that kid told me as God's gospel truth. He don't lie. You'll never catch that boy in a lie. He's proved it over and over to me.  He's a damn good kid, aside from what he's been through, and I've come to love him as if he were my own. Well, you'll see for yourselves. He'll charm the dickens out of you. You can't help but love the little guy," Buck said and went on to tell Dan and Jimmy Sue what happened Christmas, and Jimmy Sue was in tears. She couldn't imagine what the poor boy went through.

* * * * * * *
Dan, Jimmy Sue, and Buck sat and talked for almost two hours. After a while, Dan suggested he show Buck his stock. The two men left the house and headed toward the newer of two large barns on the property. Dan Justin was quite a bit smaller than Buck, but he was a lean, sturdy built man who's hard muscles from ranch work made him a fine lookikng buckaroo. He was a couple of years older than Buck, just enough to carry himself with an early middle age maturity. Even though there was no doubt Dan was a man of the soil he lived his life humbly with quiet dignity. He possessed an inner strength to his personality which made Buck feel comfortable around him. He also found Dan an attractive man. Buck was drawn to Dan because of their common interest in ranching, roping, and rodeoing. Of course, Dan heard all the talk about Buck Claymore, being a war hero. He was impressed Buck was a down to earth person with whom he could readily relate. He showed Buck his stock and pointed out several ponies he thought were intelligent and going to make good roping ponies. Waddie and Gip fell in behind the two men still talking up a storm. Buck turned around and looked at them, then smiled and winked at Dan.

"What 'chu men talk'n about, Son?" Buck asked Waddie.

"I's just telling Gip about the rope you gimme' for Christmas, Uncle Buck; how you gimme' several lessons, and Quinton done taught me some, too. Told Gip I been practicing ever’ day. Gip says he wants to learn, too," Waddie said. The boys went back to their conversation.

Dan turned to Buck, "First I done heard about it. My boy interested in learning to rope?" Dan shook his head in disbelief. "I tried to get him interested, but he won't even try. I figure if a kid don't wanna’ do something, don't force him. Sure as hell hope Waddie gets him interested. That boy 'ud have a friend for life in me. It 'ud make me a one hell of a happy man, I'll tell ya' that," Dan said.

"I told ju' earlier about me feeling blessed by that angel, well, I think Waddie was, too. I think he's a special little man who’s gonna’ overcome the hurt he's been through and do great things. If he can't talk yore' boy into getting interested in learning to rope, nobody can. He won't try'n talk him into it. His enthusiasm for anything he's interested in infects everybody he comes in contact with. Make you a small bet, Dan. Five bucks says yore’ boy asks you for a rope and some lessons afore the days over," Buck said.

"You're on, Buck. It'll probably be the only bet I ever make I pray to God I lose," Dan replied, put his hand on Buck's shoulder, and they laughed together.

* * * * * * *
Jimmy Sue came out the back door of the house and hollered for Waddie and Gip to come in and have some cookies and hot chocolate. The boys went inside, sat at the table and enjoyed hot chocolate and cookies. They never stopped talking the entire time they were there. Jimmy Sue couldn't believe what she was hearing. The boys held a great number of interests in common and obviously shared a deep spiritual connection with each other. She could feel it flowing freely back and forth between them. It was like two flood gates on a large dam were opened at the same time. The love the boys felt for each other was palpable. It was powerful and Jimmy Sue was grateful for Buck bringing Waddie with him.

Buck was right, she couldn't believe how fast Waddie charmed her. He was polite, considerate, thoughtful, and genuinely grateful for the least thing she did for him.  'What more could you want in a kid?' she thought to herself. She laughed because Waddie kept calling her boy, 'Gip' and her boy made no effort to stop him. In fact it looked to her like her boy beamed every time his new friend referred to him by his cognomen. She was impressed by the strength of character Waddie projected. For a young kid to have suffered as much as she heard about, his demeanor was one of gentility, goodness, and hope. She had no doubt these two were well on their way to becoming close friends and buddies.

"Waddie, if your Uncle Buck would let you, do you think you might like to come out and stay a night with us to be with George?" Waddie smiled at Gip and winked.  Jimmy Sue knew exactly what the gesture communicated: 'She's sweet. She means well. We'll tell her later. No sweat.'

"I'd enjoy that Mrs. Justin. Gip -- uh -- George and me, we's buddies, and I'd like to see him as much as possible, especially since we start school together this fall.  Do you think he might come in and stay with us an evening?" Waddie asked.

"I don't see why not, Waddie, but let me ask his dad first, and by the way, you can call him 'Gip' if you want to," Jimmy Sue said and smiled.

"Thank's, Mrs. Justin. See Gip, trust your buddy. I told ju’ they's good folks and wouldn't have no problem with it," Waddie said. Mrs. Justin laughed with the boys over Waddie's comment.  'He's probably right,' she thought to herself.

"I do trust you, Waddie.  Until you gimme' reason not to, I'll always trust you," Gip declared.

"You think that's what you want to be called, sweetheart? Gip?" Jimmy Sue asked.

"Yes, ma'am, mom. It's the name, my brother, my best buddy gimme,' and I like it a lot better'n George. It just feels right, and I keep wondering why I ain't never thought of it? I feel like I always been 'Gip,' not George. H’it’s like Gip's been asleep inside a’ me and Waddie woke him up. Think dad would have a problem with it, Mom?" Gip asked.

"Well, 'George' was his dad's name, but you know you can talk to your dad about anything. Tell him it's important to you. I don't think he'd mind. You can tell him you got my vote," Jimmy Sue replied.

"Gee, thanks, Mom. I don't think he'll mind. He and my granddad fought all the time. I made up my mind I won't never fight with my dad. I saw what it done to both of 'em, and I don't never wanna’ see that look on my dad's face again. I love my old man so much it would kill me. I wouldn't wanna’ live no more," Gip declared.

"George, you never told me you feel that way about your dad," Jimmy Sue said in a surprised tone.

"You're right, Mom, George would never tell you that. Gip's different, he ain't afraid to tell nobody he loves his old man," Gip replied. The boys laughed at Gip's play with names.

* * * * * * *
Dan and Buck came back into the house, and Jimmy Sue fixed them a cup of coffee. It was late afternoon, and it was getting chilly outside. She offered Buck a couple of homemade cookies which he readily accepted.

"Buck's gonna' buy a couple of ponies from us, hon," Dan said.

"That’s great. You gonna' train 'em for him?" Jimmy Sue asked.

"I'm gonna' help him train 'em, teach him how, and he's gonna' help me with a couple of projects," Dan replied.

"Good. You could use some help around here. Buck, why don't you ask Linda Sue to come for dinner some evening next week and bring Waddie with you. We'd love to have the three of you out," Jimmy Sue said.

"I'm sure she'd love to, let me get back to ya," Buck replid.

"And you, young man," Dan pointed a finger at his son, "Com’mer!" Dan pulled Gip into his lap and smiled at him, "I like the name what Waddie give you. I  like it a lot better'n George. Is that what you wanna' be called, Son?" Dan asked.

"Yes, sir, Dad. I's just telling mom, it's like Gip was asleep in side of me and Waddie woke him up. He’s a different person than George," Gip replied.

"That's good enough for me, Son. From now on you're 'Gip,'” Everyone cheered, Gip jumped down, ran to Waddie, hugged, and kissed him.

"Thank you, buddy, for my new name. Ever' time somebody calls me 'Gip,' I'll remember my brother gimme' that name. I love you, Waddie," Gip said.

Waddie hugged him back and kissed him on the cheek. "Love you, too, brother." The three adults had to turn away and dab their eyes at what they were witnessing.  The affection that flowed between the two boys was undeniable. Dan Justin fell in love with Waddie at that moment. Jimmy Sue was already smitten with him.

It was time for Buck and Waddie to go. Jimmy Sue and Dan invited them to stay for dinner, but Buck didn't plan on it and didn't want to impose. They walked Waddie and Buck to the truck. Dan got Buck aside. "Can't thank you enough for bringing Waddie out with you. Personally, I hope you, me, and our families have a long and steady friendship. Appreciate you coming out, Buck. You and Waddie are always welcome, anytime," Dan said sincerely.

Dan hugged him, and Buck didn't hold back his affection. "You ain't any more glad we came out than we are. You got chore'self a fine boy, there, Dan. One I know you're gonna' be proud of. Somehow the two of them together, well, I shudder to think what they're gonna' be like in several years," Buck said and rolled his eyes toward heaven. Both men laughed.

The boys hugged, kissed, and told each other of their love. Buck and Waddie jumped in Bertie May and headed back to town. As they passed Morgan's place they saw Judy walking around outside with Willie. Waddie moved closer to Buck. Buck put his big arm around the boy and pulled him close.

"Seeing them make you feel bad, cowboy?" Buck asked Waddie at seeing Judy and Willie.

"Not as much as it might have before today, Uncle Buck," Waddie replied.

"Why's ‘zat, buddy?" Buck asked.

"'Cause I got some good folks who love me now, and with love in my heart, I can face anything, including them. That's what I prayed for, Uncle Buck. He done heard me and answered my prayer. I'm grateful to Him for that," Waddie said. Buck almost had to pull the truck over, he thought he was going to lose it, but he didn't.

Buck choked back the tears and held Waddie closer. "You know who else we should thank?" Buck asked.

"Our angel, Mr. Uriel, Uncle Buck?" Waddie asked in reply.

"Yeah, Son. I don't remember whether I ever thanked him for saving my life on Iwo Jima. I ain’t never thanked him for bringing us together and several other things I probably forgot about. What do you say?" Buck asked. Waddie looked out his window and jumped next to Buck like he'd been shot, then he started giggling.

"What chu' giggling about? I’s serious," Buck gently admonished Waddie.

"I know, Uncle Buck, and I wanna' thank him, too, but chu’ don't have to worry none 'bout him knowing," Waddie said with a grin.

"Why's ‘zat, Buckaroo?" Buck asked.

"'Cause he's sitting right next to me, but you can't see him," Waddie replied. Buck looked over to the bench seat next to Waddie and damned if there wasn't what looked like two butt cheek dimples in the seat, "He said to tell you, he's proud of you and so's his Old Man. They love both of us," Waddie replied.

"Is that why you jumped a minute ago?" Buck asked.

"Yes, sir, Uncle Buck. Damn near pissed my pants," Waddie allowed and laughed.

Buck laughed at Waddie's candor. "Well, I know he can hear me. Mr. Uriel, I thank you, sir, for saving my life but more'n 'nat, I thank you from the bottom of heart for bringing me and my buddy, here, together. I love you, sir, and I appreciate what you and yore’ Boss done for me," Buck said.

"He said he loves you, too. Now, he's gone. He just disappeared. That scares the shit out of me when he does that, Uncle Buck," Waddie said nervously. They laughed together. The dimples were gone from the seat. Buck had no doubt the angel Uriel was riding shotgun.

* * * * * * *
The Justin family finished dinner, and Gip was helping his mom clear the table. Dan got up, put on his sheep lined jacket to go feed and put the ponies in the barn for the night. He put on his big hat, and Gip spoke to him, "Dad, can I give you a hand with the livestock tonight?" he asked.

"Sure, Son, glad to have your company and your help. Grab your jacket and hat," Dan said. Gip quickly put on his jacket and hat, and they headed out the door. Dan turned to Jimmy Sue, smiled and shook his head in disbelief. Gip worked steadily helping his dad putting the stock away for the night. It took them about half the time it would ordinarily if Dan did it alone. Gip helped him feed, put things away, and clean up a little. They closed up the barn and headed back to the house. Dan put his arm around his son. "Thanks for helping me tonight, Son, I really appreciate it. Chores always seem to go quicker and smoother when a man's got company," Dan allowed.

"Well, Waddie started me thinking. I don't want us to be like you’n granddad. I wanna’ help you and let you know I love you. After today, I ain't afraid to tell you I love you, Dad," Gip replied.

"Well, I love you, too, Son. I guess I'm partly to blame for us drifting apart, and if you ain't afraid to tell me you love me, I sure as hell ain't gonna' be afraid to tell you neither," Dan said, held his boy tighter, and thanked Waddie and Buck in his mind.

"By the way, Dad, you got an old rope around you'd let me have to practice roping with? Maybe gimme' a few lessons?" Dan smiled to himself and was never happier to have just lost five bucks.

"I think I got one around you can have. Be happy to give you some lessons. Tomorrow be too soon?" Dan asked trying not to sound too anxious.

"Sound's good to me, Dad," Gip replied.

"By the way, Gip, you and Waddie were right. The name,'Gip,' just feels right for you," Dan said.

"Thanks, Dad, I feel different. Don't know how to explain it," Gip replied.

"I think your old man understands," Dan said.

"I had a feeling you might, Dad."

They got back to the house, and Gip went in to clean up to go to bed. He was in the shower when Dan picked up the phone and called Buck's number.

Buck answered. "Hello."

"Buck, this is Dan Justin."

"Hey, Dan, just thinking about you."

"I owe you five bucks, pardner."

All Dan could hear was a burst laughter on the other end of the phone. "I'm damn glad you lost that bet, Dan," Buck said and laughed again.

"No more'n I am, friend. It’s worth ever’damn penny. Thanks, Buck, hug that young man for me and tell him he's got a new friend."

"Will do, Dan. Goodnight."

* * * * * * *
Linda Sue called, and Buck got to talk to her all of five minutes before she wanted to talk with Waddie about his day. They were on the phone thirty minutes before Buck told him he wanted to at least say goodnight to his fiancée. Waddie said goodnight to his Aunt Linda and gave Buck the phone. "He had a big day today, hon,"  Buck told Linda Sue.

"Buck, he never ceases to amaze me. You never cease to amaze me. Since he's been with you, he's opened up to the world. I'm a lucky woman to be engaged to you. I can see what kind of father you're going to be, and I couldn't be marrying a better man," Linda Sue said.

"Aww, just doing what needs to be done, darlin.' And, you know you got two men over here what worship you. Never forget that, hon," Buck said quitely.

"Goodnight, darling," Linda Sue said.

"Talk to you tomorrow, sweetheart," Buck replied.

* * * * * * *
"C’moan, cowboy, clean up time. Then it's time for us buckaroos to bunk it in for the night. Ready?" Buck asked.

"I'm ready, Uncle Buck," Waddie replied, started toward the shower, stopped, and turned around to face Buck. "Thanks, Uncle Buck, for taking me out to meet the Justins and my brother. I know'd you done it for me, and I appreciate it," Waddie said.

Buck grabbed him up in his arms. "How'd ju' know?" he asked.

"I'm getting to know you, and know how you are. Mr. Uriel and God couldn't a' sent me no better buddy. Besides, Mr. Uriel done told me in the truck," Waddie said and giggled.

"Well, here's where the bullshit stops, Son. Yes, I did take you out there to meet Gip, but I also wanted to buy a couple of ponies from his dad; even gave him a check for a deposit on a couple. Today did something for you, Waddie. I ain't real sure what yet, but it's got to be good. I just feel it," Buck allowed.

"I agree, Uncle Buck. I ain’t gonna' be so afraid after today. Fear is an awful thing to live with. I don't wanna' do that no more."

"Can't blame you, Son. Your Uncle Buck has lived with fear, and he knows what you're talking about. I don't want you to live with it no more either"

The cowboys crawled into their bunk and were ready for good night's rest. It didn't take either one anytime before they were asleep. Waddie dreamed of holding Gip in his arms and comforting him. Gip was afraid of a lot more things than Waddie. He knew he could help Gip and love him. He never felt this way about anybody before. His love for Buck was rock solid and would never vary through the years, but he felt differently about Gip. He wanted to protect Gip and look after him. Gip needed Waddie, and Waddie wasn't beyond realizing he needed Gip. It was important to Waddie to have Gip need him.

* * * * * * *
The days began to fly by. The Justins became closer to Buck, Linda Sue, and Waddie. Linda Sue and Jimmy Sue found they had a lot in common and Linda Sue asked Jimmy Sue if she'd be a bridesmaid for her. Jimmy Sue was thrilled and readily accepted. Buck asked Dan if he'd be a groomsman for him, and Dan, was pleased. Buck pulled no punches with Dan and told him how Waddie and he lived when they were home. He explained nudity was his rule when anybody, males only of course, came to visit. He told him about the monthly poker games, and Dan howled with laughter. He wanted Dan to know, in case Dan had any problem with Gip coming to visit Waddie because the three of them would be running around in their birthday suits. Dan thought it was a great idea and would probably help Gip get over some of his shyness. He wanted to leave the decision up to Gip, but wanted Buck to ask Waddie to tell him about Buck's rule. Dan laughed and told Buck if he ever needed a fourth for poker, give him a call. Buck fell out laughing and told him he would.

Dan had several large projects he wanted to get done, and with Buck and the two boys they got a hell of a lot of things done around the ranch. When Buck went out to work, he worked. They worked from sunup to sundown with a break for lunch. Most times Linda Sue would go out, spend the day with Jimmy Sue and help her in the kitchen. They fixed lunch and dinner for the men, and Linda Sue would help her clean up afterwards. Waddie surprised Buck once more. Buck thought he and Gip would be off playing somewhere while they worked, but they didn't. They both helped. The men would dirty up an area. Waddie and Gip would come along and clean up. They stayed right along with Buck and Dan all day long. Dan couldn't believe Waddie's positive influence on Gip and the change in his son. He told Buck he was going to steal Waddie away from him and Morgan. He said Jimmy Sue would back him up. Buck didn't stand a chance. Buck roared with laughter. He told Dan he wasn't real sure they didn't do it already the way Waddie talked about the two of them. Dan laughed.

As the months went by, Waddie and Gip were practicing more and more on their roping. A kid learns faster than an adult, and it didn't take them six months before they were as good and sometimes better than either Dan or Buck. Quinton went out to work on projects with Dan and Buck several times and was a big help. He was better than all of them at roping. Waddie and Gip pestered the shit out of him to give them lessons every time he went out. Quinton loved the attention. He couldn't say no to Waddie, and thought Gip was just as wonderful. He thought the two of them, together, were a perfect combination, and predicted in three years nobody in the state would be able to beat them.

Gip shared with Waddie his attraction to Quinton, and confided he had nasty dreams about Quinton. Waddie laughed and told him he wasn't alone except his were probably nastier. They broke up laughing slapping each other on the back. Gip came to love visiting Waddie and Buck. He couldn't wait to get his clothes off. At first he was a bit shy, but after running around butt naked with Waddie, he suddenly realized he didn't care anymore. It felt natural. After the third or fourth time he even stopped staring at Buck. He was shy about looking at Buck, but he wanted to. Waddie encouraged him. He told him Buck didn't care. He'll let you feel him if you want to.

"Does he let you feel him?" Gip asked Waddie.

"He has, and I have. I don't do it much anymore. I'm so used to him, I don't pay him much attention. We sleep together every night. Sometimes I wake up and grab me a big ol' handful then go back to sleep. Sometimes I'll wake up, and he's holding on to me. We don't think about it much. It's just something we do what makes us feel closer to one another. If we feel the need we can reach out and touch each other. We's buddies, he has that right, and so do I. I love my dad, but I ain't never loved nobody like I love Buck, until you come along, Gip. Now I love you as much as Buck only different," Waddie said.

"How different, Waddie?" Gip asked.

"Well, Buck's more like a big brother, and as my Godfather he's also one of my dads. You's like a brother to me, Gip, a brother I ain't never had. I know you're thinking I got Willie, but he ain't my brother, Gip. You're my brother. Don't never doubt it. Someday I'll be able to tell you what I know, but I can't right now. Just trust your big brother everything's gonna' be all right, and when things get tough remember, I love you. I'll remember you love me, and it will get us through the bad times," Waddie said.

"I love my old man, too, Waddie, like you love Buck. More now since you and I been working with him and Buck. I find myself wanting to help him anyway I can to make us closer. I know he's thrilled you and I are getting better at roping. I'm glad you got me interested. It helps me pass the time by practicing, and I think about you and Buck while I'm doing it. I guess I feel the same way, Waddie. Ain't never loved nobody the way I love my big brother. I don't even have ta' say it, you can see it ever’ time I look at you, I love you," Gip said.

The two boys hugged and kissed each other on the cheek. Gip looked puzzled and wanted to ask Waddie something. "I'm getting more used to seeing Buck naked, and I don't sneak as many looks at him as I used to. Do you still sneak looks at him once in a while?" Gip asked.

"Occasionally I look up at him and admire him, after all, he is a fine looking man. He'll catch me looking at him and wink at me. Hell, I don't even blush no more like I done at first. Now, I just look at him and tell him what I'm thinking, 'Damn, Uncle Buck, you're a fine looking man, you know that?' Then I get to laugh while I watch him blush. I look at you, and I admire my buddy, too," Waddie said with affection.

Gip blushed. "Aww, Waddie, I sneak looks at you and admire you all the time," Gip replied.

"I know you do, buckaroo, I seen ya', but Gip, you don't never have to sneak looks at me. You's my brother, my buddy. Buddies don't never have to sneak a look.  Being my buddy, my little brother, gives you the right. You wanna' look, I'm proud for you to look on me as much and as long as you want," Waddie assured him.

"Would you ever let me touch you, Waddie?" Gip asked quietly.

"Course I would. Being my buddy gives you that right. I wouldn't never say 'no' to you," Waddie said firmly.

"Why ain't chu' never touched me?" Gip asked.

"Wait'n..." Waddie replied.

"For me to ask or bring it up?" Gip asked.

"Yeah, little brother. I talked to Buck about it, and he suggested I wait until you felt like it was yore’ idea and you wanted to. I wanted to touch you ever since the first day I held you in my arms, but Buck was right, he usually is. It was something you needed to come to on your own. Ain't nothing wrong with it between two buddies.  It's just another form of love. I didn't wanna’ take the chance of scaring you and losing the love you already have for me. If you never wanted to feel me or me feel you, I still wanna' be your brother, Gip. I’d still love ya’ just as much; howsomever, I was a’ hoping you might," Waddie said shyly and grinned.

Gip had tears running down his face, and Waddie took him in his arms to comfort him. He kissed Gip behind his ear and on his neck until he calmed down. "Did I say something wrong, little brother?" Waddie asked gently.

"No. Them was just tears of happiness and relief, Waddie. I wanted to touch you so bad since the moment we first held each other, but I was afraid you didn't wanna' touch me. So, when can I touch you, big brother?" Gip asked with enthusiasm.

"Well, let's see," Waddie mused to himself, "we be lying here in the all together, I be holding you in my arms up here on Buck's big bed, I'll make you a deal," Waddie replied.

"What's zat, big brother?" Gip asked.

"Give yore’ big brother a real kiss on the mouth, relax, put chore’ hand down there, grab yore’self a big ol' handful, but chu’ gotta' gimme' a good kiss at the same time," Waddie said.

Gip looked Waddie in the eye and saw only the look of caring and love for his buddy. "I'm ready, Waddie," Gip said, move up slightly in Waddie's bigger arms, and gently put his mouth to Waddie's. He closed his eyes and felt himself falling into Waddie's love. He slowly moved his hand down his big brother's side, over his stomach, and rubbed the surface of his cock. Gip reached further to examine Waddie's tight little sack underneath. Slowly, as if Waddie's penis was a holy relic, he grasped it and felt its fullness as the blood began to fill Waddie's pride. The door opened to the room, and in walked Buck. Waddie and Gip didn't even look up. They knew it was Buck, but they also knew he wouldn't care. They were right, but it didn't stop the big man from grabbing a couple of tissues to wipe his eyes and blow his nose. He knew Waddie wanted this closeness with his buddy for several months, and he was finally getting to experience it. He was happy for him. He was happy for both. Buck knew how important it would be for them. The boys broke their embrace, looked up at Buck and smiled. They didn't jump to cover themselves or move apart. Waddie motioned for Buck to sit on the bed with them, and he did.

"Sorry, Uncle Buck. You caught us at a moment what was kinda important to us, and we didn't wanna' lose it," Waddie explained.

"I could tell," Buck said, "I'm sorry I interrupted you, but I'm pleased you didn't feel self-conscious and try to jump apart. Tells me you trust me enough to understand, and that means a lot to this old cowboy,” he added.

"I knew you'd understand, Mr. Claymore," Gip replied, "'course my big brother held me tight to let me know it was all right, not to worry," Gip said and smiled.

"What say, you men help me set up the bedroom 'cross the way there. Then, if'n you two men feel like you wanna' be private with each other, you can go in there, and that'll be off limits to anybody but me. I won't disturb you unless it's important. I'll knock first and wait for you to answer. You men are growing up, and you deserve some privacy," Buck said. Waddie and Gip helped Buck fix the bed, arranged the furniture in the other bedroom, and they made it quite comfortable. Buck made it clear, they could sleep in there together or still sleep with him, whatever they chose to do. The boys chose to sleep with Buck most of the time. Gip loved to sleep between the two men he came to adore and finally progressed to the point he had no qualms about grabbing a handful of Buck in one hand and a handful of Waddie with his other.

Many mornings Buck and Waddie would wake, wink at each other as Gip still slept holding on to both for dear life. Waddie would roll over, take Gip into his arms and kiss him on the neck. Gip would let go of Buck, curl up in his buddy's arms and go back to sleep still holding on to Waddie's dick like an airplane throttle. Waddie would lie awake holding his little brother until he awoke in his arms. Gip would reach up and kiss Waddie gently on the mouth for good morning, but he wouldn't let go of Waddie's dick. That was his right, and he was exercising it. He liked to wake up in Waddie's arms and have him pet him until the fog cleared from his brain. He couldn't remember a time in his young life when he was more at ease, comfortable, happy, and not afraid; with more strength of purpose in his life than ever before.  Gip was looking forward to school with his big brother. He wasn't afraid anymore.

Dan and Jimmy Sue Justin couldn't believe the change in their boy. He was coming out of his self-imposed shell, was more open to them, and didn't hesitate to tell them separately or together how much he loved them. Buck was right, as he usually was according to his number one fan, being nude around a bunch of guys would make you more well met and communicate more freely when you had clothes on. You got over being shy with people, and Gip was growing every day. So was Waddie. Buck began to not worry so much about Waddie returning to Morgan's if he chose to. He grew up so much in five months in every way. He was gaining weight, filling out in all the right places, and shooting up in height, and Gip was right behind him. They would be the biggest two boys in the first grade.

Both boys put on weight and muscle mass at an astonishing rate due to helping Buck and Dan around the ranch and learning to team rope. Waddie would always be bigger than Gip, but Gip was not going to be a small man. Jimmy Sue's dad was a big man over six foot four. Dan's dad and granddad were all taller, bigger men that he was. Dan took after his mother's side of the family, and she was small. Dan was not a small man where it counted the most. Waddie and Gip were thrilled to discover at one of Buck's monthly poker parties he was slightly bigger than Quinton. Suddenly, Dan became their hero, and he loved it. He wasn't unaware of why either. He subsequently became a regular to the monthly poker game.

Gip told Waddie he never saw his dad nude before. He was a little nervous the first time his dad took his clothes off, but after Dan held his arms for Gip to come to him there never was any fear after that. Dan would even shower with his son once in a while, and Gip loved it. Waddie explained to Gip about foreskins, and taught Gip how to clean and take care of himself. Nobody told him how to do it because, Dan was circumcised. One evening in the shower Gip asked his dad why he wasn't circumcised.

"Because I always felt it was unnatural to cut away anything from a man unless he was given a choice. My dad had me circumcised when I was a baby. I never had a choice. I didn't want that for you. I wanted you to make up your mind whether you wanted to be or not. Because I don't have skin covering the head of my penis, it rubs in my pants and underwear and becomes desensitized. I don't have the same feelings you do when you pull the skin back. You know how sensitive yours is. It may not seem important right now, but later, when you grow up and began to have sex it becomes very important. I just wanted more for you than I got in life. I guess that's every dad's dream for his son."

Gip grabbed his old man in the shower, hugged him, and kissed him. "Thanks, Dad. I love you for that. Hell, I love you for a lot of reasons, but that one's special."  Dan Justin was glad they were in the shower, and his son couldn't tell the shower from his tears. He talked to Buck about showering with Gip, and Buck told him Waddie and he always showered together. He makes sure Waddie gets clean, and Waddie scrubs his back for him. Dan thought it might bring him and Gip closer together. Buck was right, and Dan thanked God several times he had that talk with the big cowboy. Dan and Gip began to grow closer, as close as any father and son could be, and Waddie was always included. Jimmy Sue couldn't believe the change in her men. She reaped the rewards of their affection, and Gip was never so thoughtful and helpful.

"Waddie taught me how to clean myself real good and take care of my penis. He's not circumcised either. He didn't know 'til Buck taught him," Gip told his dad.

"You've learned a lot from Waddie. He's a good boy. I know you love him, Son."

"I won't lie to you, Dad. I love Waddie like I never loved anyone 'cept'n' you and mom."

"Truth be known, Son, I think on him as your brother. I love him that much."

"Well, I know he loves you, Dad. He thinks the world of you. He says if he decides to move back to Morgan's it will only be because he'll be closer to me, you, and mom. He told me, ‘With your dad next door I won't be afraid.’"

"I'd do anything in the world for that boy, Son."

"He knows it, Dad. He feels the same about you."

The five months of running with Buck, Quinton, and Dan Justin forced a mental growth spurt in the boys and well as physical. The boys attitudes and states of mind were highly influenced by Buck and Dan. Dan had a firm grip on reality and fairness about what was right and wrong, and wasn't shy about sharing it with the boys.  He came to accept Waddie as Gip's brother, and what lecture went for one, went for the other. It only made the boys fall more in love with Dan, and made Waddie feel more included as family. Dan treated Waddie like he was his son. Dan worked with Buck and taught him a lot about training roping ponies. The two ponies Buck bought from him were trained to be first rate ponies. They were gentle enough Dan and Buck began to let Waddie and Gip start learning to ride. The ponies were around Gip and Waddie almost every day, and they spoiled them rotten. They always had an apple or a carrot for them. They were intelligent and sensitive animals.  They knew when the boys were aboard, and rode them with care.

Morgen was seeing Waddie more often. He came to the Justin ranch once in a while to be with everyone. He helped quite a bit on a few of the construction projects.  It seemed to do him good to get away from the wicked witch of the West and her trained monkeys. Buck and Linda Sue took Waddie and Gip to see the "Wizard of Oz." Waddie remarked to Buck the wicked witch's castle looked a lot like Morgan's house. Buck ruined the movie for several folks he couldn't stop laughing at Waddie. Then Waddie dropped a bomb in Buck's lap. "Damn, Buck!  Look at them green monkeys with them little hats. Looks just like Willie in his band uniform," Waddie said loud enough for several rows to hear.

Most of the audience knew Waddie and the bad feelings between him and his step relations. The whole audience fell out laughing. Poor Buck had to get up and go to the lobby. Linda Sue quietly admonished Waddie, but she couldn't help laugh when she did. It only made matters worse. Gip couldn’t stop giggling at his big brother's take on his step-brother. He had to go to the lobby, too, and then Linda Sue and Waddie heard the two of them bellowing with laughter. That made the audience laugh more. For the sake of the other folks they decided they'd have to see the "Wizard of Oz" another night.

When Waddie and Linda Sue got up to leave the audience applauded Waddie hollering, "Right on, Waddie. Way to go, kid. That monkey does look just like Willie."

Years later when they showed the "Wizard of Oz" on T.V. the green flying monkeys would come on the screen, Buck and Linda Sue would hold each other laughing remembering that night.

It only took a couple of months of intensive training to teach the roping ponies to do their best after a steer was roped. Buck owned them, but was boarding them with Dan. It was extra work for Dan and Gip, but they didn't mind. Buck didn't want to impose, so he asked Morgan if he could keep them at his place and come out to take care of them. He added it might be a good way to get Waddie over the fear of coming back to Morgan's. Morgan wasn't running any livestock at the time, and told Buck he was welcome to keep them there. He'd be happy to take care of them when he was home, but Buck or Dan would have to take care of them when he was gone. There was no way he could get Willie to help.

Waddie and Gip rode the ponies over to Morgan’s, and Buck went around in his pickup with Dan. Waddie felt good riding the bigger of the two ponies. Willie had never been on a horse in his life, and Waddie found out he had an irrational fear of them; a fact not lost on two very fertile young minds. Willie didn't know it, he was about to enter the twilight zone. Morgan came down to the barn and greeted them. Neither Judy nor Willie ventured from the house. Waddie wasn't as nervous as he thought he might be. A thought came to his mind as he was riding the pony over. 'This is my dad's home. I'm his son. Willie's no relation to him, yet he's living in his house, and by right of birth, my house. Morgan's house is my house.'

Waddie looked at his dad and spoke quietly.  "Don't know what I've been afraid of, Dad.  hat ain't Judy's, Willie's, or Dorothy's house. By rights, it's my house," Waddie said.

Morgan put his arm around Waddie. "You're right, Son. It is your house. They'll never inherit it, but you will. When you decide to come home I have no problem with you setting them straight," Morgan said.

Things went well with keeping Buck’s ponies at Morgan's. Morgan’s runs on the railroad stabilized to three days and two nights. He returned the third day. He didn't mind taking care of the horses when he was home. Waddie and Buck would go out once a week, muck out the stalls and put down fresh hay for the ponies. Waddie was beginning to put on muscles and growing bigger every day. Buck swore he was going to be the biggest kid in first grade, and indeed, he was. Gip was second largest. They drove out to feed and take care of the ponies the afternoons Morgan was away on his train runs. Willie and his mother never came out of the house to say a word to them.

Buck still hadn't taken a job. He did some speaking around the state and got pretty good money being a speaker. He would speak at American Legion halls, grange halls, churches, V. A. hospitals and a couple of times in the state building in Austin. He was invited to talk about his participation in the war. He would talk about his part in the battles and the Generals he fought under. He would tell how the battles went and how many men they lost. He always mixed the bad with amusing stories.  Most folks thought his talks were informative and entertaining. They felt they got their money’s worth.

Waddie went with him several times to keep him company and was proud of his uncle when he heard him talk. Buck didn’t seem the least bit nervous and spoke in a commanding, yet understandable voice. He held people's attention throughout his stories. Folks would line up afterwards to shake his hand and tell him how much they enjoyed and appreciated his talk. Buck began to take on a new dimension for Waddie. He sat through one of Buck's speeches, and tried to imagine Buck giving a speech to run for sheriff of their county. That night in the hotel room they went to bed, and Buck was holding Waddie close to him. "Uncle Buck, I's s’damn proud of you I could pop a button on my chest. Ain't never heard nobody give a better talk than you did this e'nin. I need to ask you something," Waddie said.

"What's 'zat, cowboy?" Buck braced himself. He was never quite sure what was going to come out of his nephew's mouth.

"J'ever think of running for sheriff of our county?" Waddie asked. Buck was unusually quiet for a good while, but Waddie knew he was thinking. 'Is the boy fool'n with me, setting me up, or is there a slim possibility he's serious,' Buck asked himself.

"Never crossed my mind, Son. What made ju' think on it?" Buck asked.

"When I heard you speak, I saw how you took command of the situation and had them people, me included, eating right out a’ yore’ hand. I looked at you and just began to wonder how you'd do in a speech running for sheriff of our county," Waddie said. Buck lay quiet, thinking. He started rubbing Waddie's back. He was pretty sure the kid was serious, but he had to make sure. He never knew if a zinger might be coming around the corner.

"I know you, Waddie. We come too far together, and we's too damn close. Most times I can read that little mind of yours, but Lord help me, once in a while, you hit me a pop fly deep into left field, and I got no earthly idea where you're coming from. You don't just come up with some’um like 'at without some thought behind it and a damn good reason... less'n you's pulling ma' leg. Gonna' share it with your old uncle?" he asked waiting for the punch line, but there was none.

"I promise, I ain't pulling yore' leg. Ain't shit'n ya' none neither. I'm honest to God dead serious, Uncle Buck. Ain't never been more serious in my short life about nothing. I saw them posters for the sheriff we got now, and no one's running against him. I also heard me enough talk I know folks ain't happy with him. You're well enough known and liked in our county you could win, Uncle Buck, and become sheriff of our county. You got good friends all over the place who'd work their butts off to help you win. I know I would. If not this time, there's another election after that," Waddie said with firm conviction. Buck was quiet for another long while.

"Damn, Son. You come up with the damnedest shit, but somehow, when you stop and think about what you said, it begins to make sense. Tell you what, I'll think about it and ask some folks what they think, especially my wife to be, how she'd feel about it. I appreciate you thinking that highly of me to suggest it. I love you, Waddie," Buck declared in a voice that wasn't romantic but a statement of fact.

"Oh, hell, Uncle Buck, you know I love you, always will, but chu' know what, Uncle Buck?" Waddie said.

"What, sweet buckaroo?"

"You's my Godfather, ain't 'cha?" Waddie asked.

"Yeah, I am," Buck replied.

"What do you call your father?" Waddie asked.

"You know what I call him, 'dad' or 'pa.' What's this leading to?" Buck asked.

"I want you to think about something what's important to me. You ain't gotta' answer me tonight," Waddie said seriously.

"Okay, what is it?" Buck asked.

"I'll keep calling you Uncle Buck, but once a day, in private, when we's alone, I wanna say to you, 'I love you, Dad,'" Waddie said, lost it, and started crying. Buck understood, just how important it was to the boy. Buck held him close and lost it, too. How could this small boy have that effect on him. He could rip Buck's heart out with a glance if he wanted to, but Waddie wasn't like that. Instead he would say the damnedest, most unexpected, loving things to Buck anyone ever had. How could he deny this little man such a simple request to say nothing of having just made Buck feel like a God? Buck barely pulled himself together. He soothed Waddie and kissed him gently.

"You know the number of times a day I refer to you as 'son,' it would only seem right for you to call me 'dad' at least once a day. I would be proud and honored to hear you call me 'dad,' Waddie, but let's limit it to that so's I don't infringe on Morgan's right to be yore' dad."

Waddie leaned back, found Buck's mouth, and kissed him gently. Buck returned it with the gentleness of a saint.

"Well, then, goodnight, Dad. I love you," Waddie said.

"Goodnight, Son. Peaceful dreams."

Buck didn't let Waddie go all night. Waddie didn't want him to. He would've gotten closer if he could; closer to the big man who loved, protected, and kept him warm through the night; his other dad, his Godfather.


End Chapter 5 ~ Cabbage Patch Cowboy
Copyright © 2004/2013 ~ Waddie Greywolf
All rights reserved ~
Mail to: waddiebear@yahoo.com
Proofed: 12/29/2012
WC 11133