cpc_16

Cabbage Patch Cowboy
By Waddie Greywolf

Chapter 16

Everyone was up early the next morning. The women had a big ranch breakfast ready for the men. Bubba was pleased Carol Anderson and Jannie stayed over. Jannie was happy to get to see Bubba before he left. Carol Anderson was most attentive. She and Bubba conversed over coffee like they'd been old friends for years. She sat with him at breakfast. There was nothing overt or anything to give anyone cause to look at each other knowingly, but they were noticeably comfortable with each other. Of course, that wasn't missed by anyone there, large or small.

C.D. and Mavis, Mavis Lyle, and the deputies left to clean up and get ready for the day. Oatie was staying the day with Clyde and Gip at the ranch. There were more hugs, kisses, and tears telling Bubba goodbye. He told them he'd see their little buddy in about four days. Gip and his brothers each gave him a hug and a kiss to give their brother. Bubba handled the goodbyes well, better than he expected, but when Dan Justin grabbed Bubba, hugged him, gave him a kiss, and called him 'son,' Bubba lost it. He apologized to Dan, but Dan told him not to be silly, he was loved by everyone, get use to it. Bubba laughed. Buck and Linda Sue said their goodbyes as they walked Bubba to his truck. Buck hugged him real big, kissed him and told him to come home anytime he felt like it. There was always an extra bunk and a seat for him at the table. They'd love to see him any time he could drop by.

Bubba winked at Buck. "Thanks, Sheriff, I appreciate that," he said. Buck grinned real big and looked at the rise in Bubba's Wranglers. They shared a laugh. Linda Sue didn't have a clue

* * * * * * *
Maybe it was the good food or something the Crenshaw boys were doing, but Waddie's ass was healing by leaps and bounds. All the larger scabs washed away, and he seemed to be healing properly, but there was still some small trauma to his wounds. Uncle Enid came by and picked up Waddie on Thursday to spend the day with her. Waddie told her about going to the Crenshaw's ranch and falling in love with their dad, Randy Crenshaw, and Bubba's dad, Gus Franz. Enid took him on a tour of her factory, and Waddie was thrilled to see the boots actually being made. They ended their tour in the front lobby, and Enid looked at him. "Wanna' take yore’ new dads a pair of boots this weekend," Enid asked Waddie.

"Would I? Oh, Lord, Uncle Enid, you've done a’ hell of a lot of nice things for me and my brothers, but that would be about the nicest thing you could ever do. They's fine men, Uncle Enid. I'm proud to call 'em 'dad.' I can't believe I fell in love with two families in one weekend. It usually takes me at least two weekends," said Waddie disconcerted. Enid picked up on his joke and laughed with him.

"I heard the love in your voice when you talked about 'em, and just felt you might like to do some'um nice for 'em," she said and smiled knowingly.

"Uncle Enid, you know I love you, but that would make me one hell of a happy buckaroo," Waddie said.

"Pick 'em out, Son. You know their sizes?" she asked.

"Yes 'um. Billy Bob and Earl D. done told me their dad's size, and Brenda Lou told me Dad Franz's size," Waddie replied.

"Waddie picked out a handsome pair for each. He knew what Dad Crenshaw would like, and he was pretty sure what Dad Franz would like from talking with Brenda Lou."

Enid insisted she take Waddie to her doctor, and let him have a look. Waddie didn't want to put her out, but she was firm in her resolve. Waddie felt she needed to do it for him, so he didn't object too much. He was a part of her family, and she was doing what she could to let him know she was sorry it happened, and she cared. The doctor and Enid winced when they took a look at Waddie's butt.

The doctor just shook his head. "Is he being removed from that home, Enid?" he asked.

"Last I heard, as of two days ago it was done. The legal papers were served to his dad," Enid replied.

"Glad to hear it. It’s healing nicely, Son. The ointment the men are using is good, but I'm going to prescribe some for you that'll heal you twice as fast and take all the pain away. You can bust a bronco if you want to," he said not knowing Waddie's cowboy background.

"God, Stan. Don't tell the kid that. Fuck, he's liable go out and do it," Uncle Enid said, threw back her head, and laughed. "He and his brother, my cousin's boy, are junior rodeo champs two years in a row now," she added. The doctor was impressed. He wrote out a prescription and told Waddie to keep cleaning it twice a day like his caretakers were doing. It was coming along fine with no sign of infection, but if he used the medication he prescribed, Waddie would see major improvement in a couple of days. Waddie was thrilled. Enid took him by a pharmacy and bought six tubes of the medication for him. She didn't want him to run out. They had lunch together at an expensive restaurant, but the help treated him and Uncle Enid like they were royalty. Enid was a big tipper. They didn't get back until almost six, and Waddie insisted she have dinner with him and the boys. She was shy about it, but once she got to talking with Earl D., Billy Bob, and met Mrs. York she couldn't say no. The boys wanted to know what was in his packages, but Waddie wouldn't tell them. They acted hurt their little brother wouldn't share with them what was in the big packages.

"In due time, gentlemen, in due time," their little brother admonished them.

"Damned, if he don't sound like our old man," Billy Bob told Earl D. and they laughed.

You can bet, talk was lively around the table that night. The Crenshaw boys loved Uncle Enid. She had no problem with any of them referring to her as Uncle Enid. They couldn't thank her enough for their boots. They were thrilled. They asked Waddie and teased him as to what was in those packages he shoved under his bed in his room. He winked at Enid, and told them they didn't need to know everything about him. He needed some privacy. All the ball players laughed and hooted at Billy Bob and Earl D.

"You tell 'em, Waddie," said one of the huge line backers Waddie really liked named Phil Rejensky, "Them two stick their noses in everybody's business."

"Only because we love you, Rejensky," Billy Bob replied innocently and laughed.

Waddie told about Enid taking him to her doctor who told him the boys were taking good care of him, but gave him some more medication which would take away all the pain and heal it twice as fast. The boys were thrilled to hear it, and thanked Enid like Waddie was their natural brother. Waddie was beginning to feel that way. Supper was over, Enid said her goodbyes to everyone, and told Waddie she'd come back one day next week to show him around the city. He thanked her for everything and told her he loved her again.

"Oh, hell, Waddie, you know I love you, too, ya' little shit. Gimme' a big buckaroo hug and a kiss," she said. Waddie gave her a big hug and a kiss. "Oh by the way, cowboy, thanks for humoring an old lady today and letting me take you to my doc. I appreciate you trusting me," she said.

"I'd trust you with anything, Uncle Enid; take that to the bank. I can't thank you enough for what you done for me today, Uncle Enid. You don't know what a good thing you done," Waddie said and motioned up the stairs to what was under his bed. Enid nodded, smiled, roughed up his hair, turned, got into her truck, and drove away. He waved until she was out of sight. Waddie walked back in to help Mrs. York clear the table and give her a hand cleaning up. After he once asked her to let him help, she only told him no a couple of times. She thought he needed to go and do something on his own. She thought he needed to get away from the place. She was right. He was always in good spirits when he returned and had a lot to talk about. She loved to hear him tell about what new things he saw and wondered about.

They were about finished when the huge linebacker Phil came into the kitchen. "I been sent to get you, cowboy." Phil said pointing a finger at Waddie. "Them brother’s a’ yorn are dying of curiosity about what's in them bags. They wouldn't dare go into yore’ room without your permission. Them boys ain't only crazy in love with you, they respect the hell out a’ you. Don't tell 'em I told ju.’ Play along with me and protest me taking you up to them, okay?" Phil begged like a little boy.

"Shore,’ buddy, our secret, huh?" Waddie asked. Phil already picked him up. Mrs. York laughed. He threw Waddie over his enormous shoulder like a sack of potatoes and carried him out of the room kicking and screaming. Waddie was hollering and yelling for Phil to put him down this minute. Phil was laughing his ass off at Waddie's protests. The kid was good. "Put me down, you big ape, I got two legs, two feet just like you do, and if'n I wanted to go to my room I would. I ain't through help'n Mrs. York. Now, put me down. You got your last banana from me 'Jocko.' My uncle is sheriff of my damn county, I'll have him throw your big, wide-ass receiver in jail for kidnapping," Waddie yelled.

"Oooff, Waddie, that hurt," whispered Phil and laughed harder. He carried Waddie to Billy Bob and Earl D.'s room and set him down.

"One handsome, young cowboy delivered as ordered, Math'sters," Phil said with a decided lisp spitting everywhere for effect.

"Very good, big man, well done. Give the animal his treat, brother, and sent him back to the bell tower," Earl D. said to Billy Bob. He threw Phil a piece of candy.

Phil caught it and in his best Igor impression spoke, "Oh, thank you, Math'ster," Phil said and lumbered off like Quasimoto.

"All right, cowboy. Now are you gonna’ tell yore’ big brothers what's in them packages or do we have to tickle torture you? Grab him Billy Bob," ordered Earl D. grinning from ear to ear. Billy Bob was fast as a cat and held Waddie.

Earl D. started ominously toward Waddie. "Touch me and our dad hears about this. He's libel to turn both you bad boys over his knee. You think my butt looks bad?" Waddie grinned from ear to ear.

Earl D. stopped abruptly. He looked at Billy Bob. "We didn't think about that, brother. At this point our little brother holds the trump card. Let him be," Earl D. laughed and so did Billy Bob.

"Well, since you guys are my brothers and you're not spoil sports, I guess I could let you see. C'moan!" Waddie motioned for them to follow him to his room. They were right behind him. Waddie handed one package to Billy Bob and one to Earl D. "Now open them carefully, I don't want 'um messed up, understand?" Waddie tried to sound like an older, wiser brother.

"We promise, little brother," Billy Bob replied like a young kid.

"Open yours first Earl D.," Waddie instructed.

Earl D. took the box from the large sack. He saw the size on the box and knew immediately for whom they were intended. He slowly open the box like a holy relic might be inside and pushed back the protective tissue paper. "Oh, Waddie. Damn. Our old man's been putting off getting a new pair of boots for himself for over three years now because one of us has always needed something, and they never had the money to buy him a new pair. Oh, my God, will you look at these, Billy," Earl D. said in awe as he lifted one out of the box and turned it in his hand to get a better look.

Billy Bob was stunned. His eyes were watering and a tear rolled down his cheek. "Com'mer, Little Brother," he said. Waddie went to Billy Bob who held him for the longest time then gently kissed him. "Talk about yore’ dad messing his pants, our dad may come close when he opens that box. They'll be the finest pair of boots he's ever owned, right Bro?" Billy Bob asked his brother.

Earl D. grabbed Waddie, held him close and kissed him. "He'll trade us in fer' shore’ now, Billy," Earl D. allowed and laughed, "Waddie, he ain't never had a pair of boots this nice I can remember. Did you ask your aunt for them?" Earl D. asked.

"You men know I don't lie. Cowboys don't never lie, you know that. I told her what a good time I had going home with ya’ll and how much I fell in love with Dad Crenshaw and Dad Franz. She asked if I wanted to pick out a pair for each. I couldn't say no, guys. Y'ain't mad at me or nothing?" Waddie asked.

"How could we be mad at you, little brother? Hell, no," Billy Bob said as he opened the box intended for Gus. Again they gasped, "Damn, Waddie. Gus and dad are gonna' fight over you, I swear," Earl D. said.

"He ain't kiddin,' little brother. Gus got us aside and wants you to come back this weekend as bad as dad does. Dad done called us again this afternoon to make sure we’s coming and bringing you. He ain't never called us two times in one week since we been in school, right, bro?" Billy Bob asked his brother.

"Honest Injun,' buckaroo," Earl D. said and held up his right hand.

"So are we leaving tomorrow morning? We don't have classes tomorrow, we could even go tonight if'n you feel up to it. It's only seven-thirty, we could be there by ten," Billy Bob asked.

"If we go during the day you guys make better time, and it's less time I have to sit," Waddie replied.

"Can't argue with logic like that, bro. Our brother's right," Billy Bob said to Earl D.

"I agree. Once again we didn't think about our little brother," Earl D. said.

"Aww, c'moan, guys, it's a mistake anyone can make. Y'ain't perfect. Neither am I, except, I'll bet you'll have a hard time convincing our dad after we hand him these puppies," Waddie called the boots and grinned wickedly. Earl D. and Billy Bob fell on the bed laughing.

"You're right, Waddie. He was so disappointed you weren't here to talk with him so's he could invite you again. He didn't wanna’ talk to us very long. He didn't have a hell of a lot to say except bring my son home with ya,'" Billy Bob said. They fell out laughing. The Crenshaw boys numbered three in that room. The men decided to pack and be ready to leave first thing after breakfast the following morning. Everything was ready to go. They talked and laughed for a while with the other athletes who came into Waddie's room. They thought nothing of walking around buck ass naked, sitting down, and talking to him. It made Waddie nervous, so he got up and shucked off his clothes. The men laughed at him.

Phil grabbed him. "Sum'bitch, guys, would ju' look at d'pecker on 'nis kid!" Phil exclaimed. He had one huge hand on Waddie's shoulder and turned him to his buddies. They gawked and whistled.

"Yeah," said Billy Bob dryly, "that man definitely be a Crenshaw, right, bro?" he nudged Earl D.

"Definitely, brother, no doubt about it," Earl D. backed up his brother. The men laughed.

"Ya' don't feel so nervous no more, do you, cowboy?" Phil asked him grinning real big while pulling Waddie up into his lap.

"Naw, if I learn't one thing from my brother, Oatie: if in doubt, remove all clothing immediately -- ya’ can't go wrong. If someone gets upset, he figures it's their problem," Waddie added. The men howled with laughter.

"Show'um the boots your Uncle Enid gave you for our dads, Waddie," Billy Bob said. Waddie handed a box to Phil and one to another player named Stan Lexington.

"You got the boots for Dad Crenshaw, Phil, and you got the boots for Dad Franz, Stan. You guys didn't get to meet Mr. Franz's son, Bubba, who saved my life. Ya'll were gone last Friday when I arrived." The men opened the boxes, whistled, and showed them to the other guys who, 'oohed,' and 'aahed' over them. You would have to be raised in Texas to understand a Texas man's appreciation for a fine pair of boots.

"Your aunt bought these for you to give as gifts to these two men, Waddie?" Phil asked in amazement. The other guys were wishing they had an aunt like that.

The three Crenshaw boys laughed together. "You know what, Waddie, when she was here for dinner the other night we never told them Uncle Enid's last name, did we?" Waddie tried to remember, shook his head. He and Billy Bob agreed, they didn't.

"Uncle Enid's last name, gentlemen," Earl D. said, "is the same as the name of the boots you're holding. She just happens to own the company."

"No Shit. I knew there was something I liked about your Uncle Enid, Waddie," Phil said. They shared a laugh. Earl D. and Billy Bob got undressed and excused the three of them. They had to shower, take care of their little brother, and get to bed. They were getting up early and leaving immediately after breakfast in the morning. The other players grumbled good naturedly but understood. Earl D. and Billy Bob showered with Waddie and cleaned him good. His ass was healing up well. His back was not so black and blue. His eye and face were beginning to have the natural color return.

Waddie attributed a lot of it to Mrs. York's cooking. She served healthy, fresh food, and he was eating more than ever before. He was no longer skinny. He bought his jeans a size too large so he would grow into them. They weren't loose or baggy. They fit like a glove in all the right places. The boys used the new medication, and Waddie told them he could feel it taking the pain away. It took all the pain away. The good thing about it was it was a cream instead of an oil based ointment. It was easier to keep things clean and washed out of clothing better. After saying their prayers, the men went to sleep in Waddie's room again looking forward to a long and wonderful weekend with their family.

* * * * * * *
The other men were jealous. The moaned, groaned, and grumbled like small kids because them lousy Crenshaw boys were going to have a good time without them. They wanted to go to Bandera with the Crenshaw men and play cowboys. They were promised another time. Mrs. York hugged and kissed Waddie goodbye, and like any good house mother told him to be good. He smiled and thanked her. The boys were off. They arrived in Bandera about nine-fifteen in the morning, and once again, the whole herd came pouring out of the barn, house, and the workshop. Billy Bob honked their signature honk as they drove by the Franz's to let them know they arrived and to come on over. They knew they'd be there in ten minutes. Dad Crenshaw came lumbering out the back screen door of the house with Ma Crenshaw but never looked up. He just looked at the ground as he kept his lumbering gait toward the truck.

Billy Bob turned to Earl D., they looked at each other and laughed. "You men know why our old man ain't looking up at us, don't you? He don't want us to see the big grin on his face," Billy Bob said. The three of them fell out laughing as Dad Crenshaw finally arrive and held his arms open for Waddie. Waddie didn't hesitate. He was home.

"Welcome home, Son. Damn, it's good to see you again, cowboy. Glad you could make it. We was a' hoping you might," Dad Crenshaw said as the boys gathered around Waddie wanting a hug. Waddie was polite, hugged and kissed Ma Crenshaw first, and handed her a small gift of perfume his Uncle Enid bought for him to give her. Enid bought another kind for him to give Ma Franz. She even bought some for him to give Brenda Lou. Then Waddie went down the line, got a hug, a kiss, and a welcome home from all the boys. They were thrilled to see him again.

"Billy Bob, dearest brother, are you sure we didn't take a wrong turn back there some'ers? Nobody, here, seems to recognize us," Earl D. said as he wiped away an imaginary tear. Billy Bob slapped him on the back and laughed. Dad Crenshaw held out his arms for his two big boys, then the younger ones wanted their share. No sooner did they say their 'hellos' when the Franz drove up. They were invited for lunch when the boys came home. They heard the horn and jumped in the truck. Waddie ran to the truck followed by the rest of the boys. He helped Brenda Lou down from the truck, then turned to help Ma Franz. Waddie handed his other two gifts to Earl D. and Billy Bob. They were right behind him. Brenda Lou offered her arms, Waddie hugged and kissed her on the cheek. She returned his greetings in kind and told him how glad she was he could come. Earl D. handed him his gift to give to Brenda Lou, and she was thrilled. Next was Ma Franz and Waddie handed her his small gift, she broke into tears, and hugged him. Gus was beside himself to welcome Waddie and finally got his hug and kiss.

"We're glad you could come this weekend, Waddie. We were hope’n and a’ pray’n you were better and might be able to rope a little more for us. We sure enjoyed seeing you rope last weekend. Can't remember when I ever seen anyone's good as you and Randy," Gus allowed.

"My aunt took me to her doctor, Dad, and he gave me some new medication I think's gonna' do the trick. Don't you guys?" Waddie asked his two big brother. They both agreed as they shook Gus' hand to say, 'hello.' They hugged, kissed their sister and Ma Franz. They went into the house to have lunch. They caught up on everything. Waddie told his new family about calling back home to talk with Bubba who spent all afternoon with Waddie's family. They grilled steaks for him, and he said they were the best steaks he ever ate. "He fell in love with my brothers and family, Dad Franz. Said he was gonna' try to get home a couple a days after his next run. Hope he'll be here when I am. I'd love to see my big buddy again and rope for him," Waddie said.

They had a wonderful lunch. The three men, Earl D., Billy Bob, and Waddie decided not to give the boots to their dads until after lunch. Waddie wanted the boots to be from the three of them, and they reluctantly agreed. Mrs. York had a couple of small cards she gave them, and they signed their names. Uncle Enid put her own card in that simply read, "You've taken in and loved my nephew as part of your family. For that I'll always be grateful. Besides, the dad of eight such fine boys deserves to wear the best, Justin /Nacona Boots." Best wishes, Enid Justin

The boys were wowed by her card. They signed their card, from the Crenshaw Wild Cards, Love, Waddie, Earl D., and Billy Bob. They had similar cards in Gus' boots. Waddie remained at the table as Earl D. and Billy Bob excused themselves to get something out of the truck they forgot. They winked at Waddie. Billy Bob and Earl D. walked back into the dining area, and handed each man one of the big sacks.

"What's this?" the men asked rather taken aback.

"They's cards inside, sirs," Waddie said. Earl D., and Billy Bob laughed, and the other boys were laughing, too. Brenda Lou grabbed her dad's arm she was so excited for him. A big grin came across each one's face. Dad Crenshaw looked straight at Waddie, grinned and shook his head. They opened the boxes and each pulled out one of their handsome, new boots. Both men had tears in their eyes. The boys went crazy they were so thrilled for their dad. Earl D. started applauding, and the boys picked it up until every one was applauding for the two fine men. They read the cards, shook their heads, and handed them to their wives to read.

Dad Crenshaw stood and looked at Gus. "You want first shot at 'em, Gus?" Everyone roared with laughter. Gus told him to go ahead. "Well, Son, I can't turn you over my knee. I wouldn't anyway. This has to be one of the nicest, most thoughtful gifts I ever received, and you can bet I'll wear 'um with pride," Dad Crenshaw said. He sat down and everyone applauded again.

Gus stood. "Sons, Waddie, Earl D., and Billy Bob, I'm so touched by your gift, I don't know what to say, except, thank you, and I love you. Hell, I love all you boys," he said and sat down to more applause. Gus and Dad Crenshaw had to try them on immediately. They fit like gloves. They were so proud of their new boots. They came over and hugged their three boys again.

"I want you to know, Dads, both of you, this weren't my idea. You know I don't lie. It was my aunt's idea. I just finished a tour of her factory, I told her what a good time I had with you and your families, and I was going back again this weekend. She asked if I wanted to bring each of you a pair, so the real thanks goes to her. Us boys just played Santa Claus. Good thing my sister, and I had a little chat last weekend about your boot size, Dad Franz. Your big boys squealed on you, Dad," Waddie said and laughed at Dad Crenshaw.

"Now, Randy, you take them boots off, and put 'um in yore’ closet. You're going to church in those, and you can wear that other pair now for every day." Ma Crenshaw commanded. Dad Crenshaw obeyed.

"You, too, Gus. You don't wear those outside and get 'um all messed up," Ma Franz said. Everyone laughed good naturedly. The women were right. They were too expensive and nice to knock around in every day.

* * * * * * *
Dad Crenshaw and Dad Franz couldn't keep their hands off Waddie. Either one or the other had their arm around him, talking to him. Earl D. and Billy Bob laughed their asses off at the attention their little brother was receiving. He deserved it. They were convinced he was a damn good kid, and they loved him. He was kept busy constantly. One of the boys would get him cornered, and Waddie would patiently and generously give of his time. Dad Crenshaw, Gus, one of his big brothers, or even is sister would come and rescue him. Dad Crenshaw wasn't going to let Waddie ride. Waddie insisted he was much better, and the new medication was wonderful at killing pain. He wouldn't overdo it this time, he promised. They saddled Whiskey for him again. He liked the horse, and made damn sure he brought him a treat. Whiskey fell in love with Waddie. The young cowboy could get the horse to do anything by talking softly to him.

Waddie and Dad Crenshaw roped together first and blew away all their times from the previous weekend. Once again Dad Crenshaw was in heaven. All the boys roped better. They obviously were practicing. They listened to Waddie and learned. He never yelled at them after they finished their runs. He wouldn't say anything if they didn't ride over and politely ask if he might offer any suggestions. Waddie would never tell them they were doing anything wrong. He would only ask them if they considered trying this or that, or you might try doing it this way. What if you didn't do this and did that instead? Then he'd always ask them, "Do you think it might help a little?" If they listened and did as he suggested their times improved considerably. Earl D. and Billy Bob were getting good. J.R. and Cassidy were coming along fine, but the brother Waddie most wanted to rope with was Toller. He wasn't in the arena. Waddie rode over to him, and asked him why he wasn't on horseback?

"Dad said there might be too many in the arena. He didn't want the confusion," Toller replied.

"Do you wanna’ rope with me today, brother?" Waddie asked him. Toller's eyes lit up, and his face became a huge smile.

"Oh, yes, Waddie. That ‘ud be great, but I'm afraid dad won't let me. Maybe if you asked him," Toller replied.

"Leave it to me, little brother," Waddie said, and rode his pony back over to Dad Crenshaw. He sat next to him on Whiskey and quietly watched the other men rope. He'd applaud and cheer when they made a good catch.

"Something on your mind, Son?" Dad Crenshaw asked Waddie grinning.

"Yes, sir, but I don't wanna’ be out of line or seem disrespectful, Dad. It’s the last thing I wanna’ do," Waddie replied.

"You wanna' rope with your little brother? I saw you talking with him a minute ago. I thought too many out here might tire you, but if you think you can handle it, I'll let him saddle up. I was gonna' ask you after we been at it for a while if one more might be too much," Randy said.

"Not at all, Dad. I'm much better, and the new medication takes all the pain away. You talk about a dead ass, my butt is so dead right now you could kick my ass up between my shoulder blades, and I wouldn't feel a thing," Waddie said, grinned at Dad Crenshaw, and winked. Randy laughed as Billy Bob and Earl D. rode over.

Dad Crenshaw yelled at Toller. "Toller! Get chore’ pony, Son. Saddle up," he hollered, smiled, and winked at his boy. He didn't have to ask Toller twice. The boy took off on the run. It didn't take him twenty minutes, and he was riding into the arena.

He rode over by Waddie's side. "Thanks, big brother, I owe you one," he said.

"You don't owe me nothing, brother. I wanted to rope with you. I wanna' show yore’ old man what chu' can do. I know what you can do. I don't think he believes me. Don't let me down, I believe in you. Let's us show him what chu' got, cowboy," Waddie said, grinned, and winked at the young buckaroo.

"I promise, I won't let you down, Waddie," Toller replied.

Waddie teamed with Toller next. Toller rode heeler. Waddie reviewed everything he told him from the last weekend. Toller repeated it back verbatim. Waddie could tell, the kid was serious about roping. One last thing Waddie told him. "The most important tip I could give you, brother, relax, enjoy yourself and have a good time. If'n we don't make the catch, so what? We'll get it next time. I ain’t gonna' think any less of you, and you ain't got nothing to prove to nobody 'cept'n yourself. Let's have some fun, brother," Waddie said and smiled.

Toller smiled real big and went to his position. He wanted to rope with Waddie since he first saw him make a catch. He prayed all week he might get a chance if Waddie returned. He was disappointed when his dad cut him out. Waddie could feel his disappointment all the way across the arena, and it was painful for him to see his little brother hurting. He had a gut feeling Toller was the finest talent there, maybe even more than him. The barrier was dropped, Waddie nudged Whiskey who took off like a rocket sled after the critter. Waddie landed his rope, dallied, and Whiskey turned the steer. Toller made his catch quicker than Waddie saw a man or boy do in a long time. Toller trained his own pony, and they were a team. The pony had the steer pulled tight in seconds. Their time beat the last best time of his and Dad Crenshaw's. Dad Crenshaw was wowed and speechless as the two older boys laughed their butts off at their dad.

"Son of a gun, Toller, Waddie, that was one hell of a run. You done good, Son, damn good," Dad Crenshaw was shaking his son's hand and grinning. Waddie didn't pay him any attention, and just grinned to himself as he rewound his rope. Billy Bob and Earl D. knew what Waddie told their dad about Toller's talent, and he just proved it to their old man in spades. Waddie showed Dad Crenshaw he knew what he was talking about. "All right. All right. You win, I concede," Dad Crenshaw said to Waddie, and he winked to his boys. Waddie laughed and so did the big boys.

He rode over and shook his dad's hand. "Love you, Dad. Didn't mean no disrespect, sir," Waddie said still grinning from ear to ear. Randy Crenshaw knew he was in love. He couldn't help himself. He was so taken with Waddie's giving, selfless, and humble personality he couldn't help love the boy.

"Think you men can repeat it?" Dad Crenshaw challenged.

"Why repeat it?" Waddie asked winking at Toller.

"To see if it was a lucky catch," Randy replied.

"That ain’t what I meant, Dad. Why repeat it when we can better it?" Waddie asked in reply.

"Let’s see it, Son," Dad Crenshaw challenged again good heartedly. Waddie rode slowly back over to the gates with Toller and gave him a couple more tips. Toller listened intently, and nodded his head he was ready. Waddie knew, all he had to do was tell Toller what and how to do it, and the kid was like a machine, he nailed it every time. Their next run was eleven seconds better, another arena record. Toller was thrilled, so was his dad. He was about to burst with pride. Gus was on the fence yelling for Toller. He liked Toller.

"C'moan, Toller. Rope with your old man. I'll ride header," Dad Crenshaw said to his son.

They made their run and Toller was right on. Their time was slower, but it wasn't Toller's fault. The five other men saw what happened. Their dad couldn't keep up with his boy. The kid was just too damn fast and accurate for him. Randy Crenshaw had egg on his face. He was going to have to practice to be as good as his son. He rode back over, and the guys were humoring him telling him it was a good catch. "You guys ain't gonna' tell me the truth, but I know. H’it weren't your fault, Son," he said and turned to shake his son's hand. Toller smiled sheepishly, "Your old man weren't fast enough or accurate enough, but I promise, I'll get better with you and Waddie's help. Also, from now own, you saddle up with the rest of us, understand?" Randy asked his son.

"Yes, sir, thanks, Dad," Toller replied meekly.

"You earned it, Son. C'moan, lets try that one more time," Randy said.

They made one more run, and bested their previous time. Waddie rode with Tollar again, and set another arena record. Then he rode with Dad Crenshaw again and tied the time. By the end of the day everyone improved a lot. Billy Bob and Earl D. were coming along, and they were thrilled. J.R. and Cassidy were moving ahead of their older brothers. They were hot that afternoon. Young Toller was in heaven, and idolized Waddie. Waddie roped with all of them until they put away the ponies to get ready for supper. Talk was lively around the table that evening. Everyone was having a good time and enjoying each other. The Franz’ stayed for supper as well. They spent all day watching the men rope. Gus Franz was wowed at how Waddie was bringing the Crenshaw boys along in their roping. He was really complimentary to his friend, Randy Crenshaw, and all the boys. He couldn't believe Waddie. The kid never missed a throw.

After supper the Franz's said their goodbyes and went home. The Crenshaws retired to their living room, and spent the rest of the evening chatting and catching up. Waddie couldn't remember a time he felt more loved and wanted than that evening with the Crenshaws. Earl D. and Billy Bob had him sit between them on the couch, otherwise his other brothers would end up on top of him. They adored him, and wanted to be as close to him as they could get. He was giving to them, and they couldn't be more grateful. He wasn't conceited or prideful. He knew his abilities, and was comfortable with himself. He wasn't stingy with his tips or recommendations. Dad Crenshaw couldn't have been happier.

"How you feeling, Son?" Randy asked Waddie.

"The medication the doctor gimme’ is a wonder, Dad. I was on Whiskey all afternoon, had a couple of twinges, but nothing like last weekend. I felt so bad about that. I was embarrassed to cause you folks such concern," Waddie lamented.

"Waddie, we're your family. It's right for us to be concerned. You'd be concerned for anyone of us. Look what you done for yore’ little brother," Dad Crenshaw said and motioned toward Toller who was sitting as close to his dad as he could, "We ain't gonna' get that damn smile off’n his face for a week. It was because you cared about chore’ brother. You knew his abilities, and proved 'em to his old man," Dad Crenshaw assured him. Waddie was beginning to think he just might have some self-worth after all. The phone rang and Ma Crenshaw went to answer.

She came back and looked at Waddie. "It's for you, dear," she said to Waddie not giving any clues. Waddie went to the phone.

"Hello."

"How's my little running buddy, tonight?" Bubba asked.

"Oh, Bubba, it's so good to hear from you again. I know I just talked to you Wednesday night, but I'm so glad you called. You must have called the boarding house, and someone told you we came home."

"No, sweet cowboy, I just called Dad, Ma, and little sister and they told me. My old man thinks you hung the moon and set the stars out, Son. He was thrilled with them boots you give him. He's crazy about 'em. My old man started crying on the phone, and he rarely ever cries. It really moved me, too, Waddie, to hear such happiness in his voice. I can't tell you how good that made me feel, and how much I appreciate your kindness to him. Little sister and ma are about to nominate you for sainthood. They loved your gifts. Seems like you got two more families, Son," Bubba said.

"I have a gut feeling you do, too, big man," Waddie replied.

"Have to tell ya,’ Waddie. Ain't never met a group of people who made me feel more at home. You were right, I fell in love with them, Gip and Dad Dan in particular. Buck goes without saying. Ain't no way anybody can get away from that man's love, and Son, you have the same love in you. I thought to myself, ‘That's Waddie standing there in thirty years.’"

"That's damn nice of you, Bubba. I sure hope you come to visit after I get home. Where did you stay?" Waddie asked.

"In the loft with the kids, and I mean all the kids," Bubba replied and laughed.

"Lemme' see, that would include, Uncle Buck, Dad Dan, Doc Dyer, Don, Lyle, Quinton for big kids and Clyde, Oatie, and Gip for younger kids."

"Exactly. Loved yore’ little brother, Gip. You chose well, Son. Who could help loving Oatie and Clyde? Clyde don't say much, but when he does you wanna' listen. Oatie told the most outrageous story about you guys trying to haunt Willie's room. Laughed almost as hard as you telling your stories. I really had a good time. I'll go back. Buck and I are too close not to. I know I'll find myself missing him just like I'm a' missin' you, buckaroo," Bubba said.

"I know what you mean, big bear. I don't wanna' be selfish, and take up all yore’ time. You wanna' talk to anyone else?" Waddie aside.

"Yeah, let me have a holler at chore’ dad, Waddie, and I'll have him let me speak to the terrible twosome. Then I'll say goodbye to you," Bubba replied. Waddie turned and hollered.

"Dad, phone!" Dad Crenshaw came in and Waddie smiled as he handed him the phone. He went back in to talk with the family to give Dad Crenshaw his privacy. Earl D. went in next to talk with Bubba and then Billy Bob. When he finished he hollered for Waddie again.

"Damn, Son. What chu' doing down there? Them folks think the world of you. Randy can't say enough good things, and he loves them damn boots. Woah. Have you captured his heart? I'm so proud of you, cowboy," Bubba said.

"I'm proud of you, too, big man. I'll always love you, Bubba," Waddie replied.

"I'll always love you, too, little one, with all my heart. Gotta' run, but I'll keep in touch, darlin.' Love you," Bubba said.

"Love you, too, and thanks for calling," Waddie replied.

Waddie walked back in with a tear in his eye, but he didn't care who saw it. He missed his big buddy. Billy Bob put his arm around him, pulled him close, and stole a kiss.

"He'll be back afore you know it, Waddie," Billy Bob consoled him.

"I know, and I don't want you folks to think I love him more 'cause I miss him. I miss you as much when I ain't here. I couldn't wait to come back this weekend. I was so lonesome for all of you even though I had two of you with me. You know I love Earl D. and Billy Bob, but them and you together is what I really love," Waddie said.

"I think it can be safely said, we feel the same 'bout you, cowboy," Earl D. mused while rubbing his chin in contemplation.

"Yeah," his congregation of brothers agreed. Dad Crenshaw just grinned and nodded.

The family went to bed. Billy Bob and Earl D. once again helped Waddie. As they were finishing up Dad Crenshaw knocked quietly on their door. "Everything all right in here, men?" Randy asked.

"You know it is, Dad, you just came in to give Waddie a goodnight kiss," Billy Bob laughed and Earl D. backed him up. Their dad blushed then grinned real big.

"'Feared they’s right, young'un. Don't pay’um no never mind, they's jes’ jealous. Gimme’ a hug and a kiss, Son," Randy said. Waddie was more than happy to give Dad Crenshaw anything he wanted.

Waddie got an erection and blushed, but he wasn't going to let it get the best of him. "That's how much I love you, Dad," Waddie said and winked at Dad Crenshaw.

"Good thing you can't see mine, Son, we'd both be blushing," Randy Crenshaw said, and his boys shared a good laugh. "Some neighbors got wind you might be here this weekend, and wanted to drop by to watch or maybe compete. Think you's up to it, cowboy?" Randy asked.

"I'm feeling pretty damn good, Dad, but maybe you should ask my keepers for their opinion," Waddie replied.

"He's much better this evening. We were expecting it to be bloody again, but it ain't. I think he's healing properly, and his new medication is a wonder. It's healing him twice as fast. You can see it in his face and back, Dad. Roll over there, brother, and let dad take a look," Earl D. said. Waddie didn't hesitate and rolled on his stomach.

"You do look one hell of a lot better from last weekend, Son. If you get tired tomorrow and need to take a break, let us know. We'll sit with you," Randy said.

"I think I'll be all right, Dad, honest," Waddie replied.

"Good. Gimme' another hug and a big ole kiss. Your old man wants to see how much you really love him," Randy said. The four men broke up as Waddie hugged and kissed Dad Crenshaw again. They even laughed more when he got harder. "Damn, the boy does love me, don't he?" he asked his other two sons in jest.

"Quite a bit, I'd say, Dad," Earl D. grinned. They said their goodnights. Earl D. and Billy Bob got into bed on either side of their little brother.

Poor Waddie. It looked like he was going to be submitted to another evening of being taken advantage of. So many stolen kisses the boy suffered at the hands of these two ruthless kissing bandits. He felt weak and helpless against their massive more powerful bodies. What choice did he have but to succumb to their demands? Fighting the good fight against the onslaught of their greedy passion and overwhelming man power he waved a white flag of surrender. Then through the tenderness and gentility of their assaults, one after another, his plan was to speak of truce, but every time he opened his mouth, one would gently cover it with their own and suck the words from him. Was our hero doomed? Would he survive?

'Hell, who cared?' he thought, 'If he didn't make it, what a way to go.'

* * * * * * *
The next day everyone was up early. There were chores to do, breakfast to eat, and other things to get done. Waddie pitched in and helped anywhere he was needed. So did his big brothers, the football stars. They were home where their achievements were appreciated, but where they were also just another one of the family. If they were home, they were expected to pull their weight. Earl D. and Billy Bob weren't tainted by their athletic stardom. Every time they came home it pulled them back to their roots and humbled them real quick. They could see the same in Waddie, and they adored him.

After breakfast, around nine o'clock trucks with horse trailers started arriving. There must have been fifteen or twenty. There were whole families riding in on horseback. The Franz arrived in a very handsome black carriage with a black canvas top pulled by two matched white Morgans. Waddie helped Gus free them from their harnesses and put them in an adjacent pasture to spend the day. Gus really liked being around Waddie. Waddie loved Gus and thought he wasn't a bad looking man at all. Gus had an earthy, handsome ruggedness about him that made him comfortable for Waddie to look at. He had the look of a middle aged, weathered cowboy who you can never be really sure of his age. He could be much younger or even older. It didn't matter, young or old, that look was what Waddie wanted look like when he got older. He thought Gus was hot. He knew Gus thought Waddie was hot. Waddie could see him dripping in his Wranglers when he was around him. Gus' snake would crawl down his pants leg trying to sneak out, especially when Waddie was sitting close to him on the corral fence.

'Could it be that Bubba and Gus...? Naw, never happen, but then again...' Waddie thought to himself.

Waddie was introduced to a lot of people. He knew he was going to have a hard time remembering their names. He talked with Dad Crenshaw and told him when he wasn't riding he'd be sitting on the fence with Gus so he wouldn't spend all day in the saddle. Dad Crenshaw thought it was a good idea. Everyone arrived and there seemed to be a rodeo atmosphere about the day. People were coming and going all day. The women loaded the back of their family's pickups with food as well as kids. The ladies instructed the men to start pulling picnic tables together into a central area for food. They made sure they brought enough for the host family. Waddie met the gentleman he gave Uncle Buck's address and phone number to at the church, Johnnie Mack Tamplin. He grabbed Waddie up and was so glad to see him again. He called and talked to Buck on the phone. He told Waddie about their conversation.

"Yore’ Uncle Buck loves you a powerful lot, Son. He couldn't believe I met you in church. He told me about meeting yore’ angel on Iwo Jima, and the angel saving his life. It was really good to talk with him. Buck was like a big brother to me. He looked out for me, and was the first one to me when I fell. He stayed with me 'til a medic got there. He went on, then came back, and carried me behind the lines. They were gonna' leave me there. Buck came back for me. He saved my life, Son. I thought I was dreaming when I heard Buck's voice. 'I gotcha,’ little brother. Old Buck'll get chu’ back, don't chu' worry none. I ain't a' gonna' let chu' die in this God forsaken place. I'll make sure you get home, Johnnie,'" Mr. Tamplin repeated to Waddie as his voice cracked. He wiped away a couple of tears. "After I was sent back, I lost touch with him. I always wondered, but I prayed he made it back. He meant a hell of a lot to me, Waddie. I got to go shake the man's hand and thank him in person. I owe him that, Son. Hell, I owe the big man my life. Next summer, come hell or high water, me and my wife are taking a trip to yore’ town to visit Buck and his wife. I told him how impressed I was by you, and the wonderful words Randy Crenshaw got up in church and told everybody.

"I heard old Buck weeping on the other end, Waddie. He told me he misses you so much, but he knows you're in good hands. I assured him you was in the best of hands with Randy Crenshaw and his boys. He told me he had faith you'll come home when the good Lord tells you it's safe. He told me his wife can't have no kids, and you're the nearest thing to a son he'll ever have. I told him you look just like him. He laughed and told me the same thing you did, 'We get that a lot.'" Johnnie Mack laughed in a booming bass-baritone voice. The big cowboy was a handsome, good hearted man. He introduce his tiny wife Millie to Waddie. She was barely as tall as Waddie. Of course, Waddie was shooting up in height that summer.

Johnnie Mack asked if he was going to ride today, and Waddie told him he probably would. Unknown to Waddie his new dad was making a few wagers on Waddie and his boy Toller. When Waddie found out he laughed his ass off, but told everyone not to tell Toller. He didn't want any undue pressure on the kid. If they lost, Waddie didn't want Toller to suffer any guilt. Waddie wasn't worried for himself. He thrived on a challenge. When Waddie became his coolest, calmest, and most focused, was under pressure. He worked, talked with, prayed with, and urged Gip to learn the same. Gip did, and he was almost as good at it as Waddie. Waddie and Toller were to go up against the top roping team in five counties. They were two fine looking cowboys, grown men, but pretty damn cocksure of themselves. They laughed at the idea two kids were going to beat them at team roping. Ridiculous.

Waddie and Toller went first. They were the first team that morning. Waddie talked quietly to Toller through breakfast and most of the morning. Toller asked intelligent, useful questions, and was sucking in Waddie's knowledge like a sponge. Waddie only had to tell the boy or demonstrate once how it should be, and Toller nailed it every time after that. He was young and eager to learn. He and Waddie developed a closeness only two ropers can describe. They didn't speak a lot to each other except when Waddie was teaching Toller something. They didn't have to talk much. They read each other's minds. When they were lined up ready for their run, Waddie looked over at Toller, winked, and set his concentration. That was Waddie's signal for Toller to do the same, and the damn steer didn't stand a chance. They were almost flawless. Their catch and time left a few mouths open. Their first run that morning bested the record time they set the morning before. The crowd was wowed, yelled, and cheered for Waddie and Toller.

The older men, for all their cocksureness, were fifteen seconds short of the boy's time. They were true cowboys, though. They rode over to the boys, and as a sign of respect to another cowboy of any age who just bested them, they took their hats off. They shook Waddie and Toller's hands, and were nothing but compliments. The boys got to be good friends with them before the day was over. They weren't so cocksure anymore, not too proud to admit they made a mistake and try to learn from it. During lunch one of the men asked why Waddie wouldn't give them any pointers? If'n he's a real rodeo cowboy he would.

Gus heard his comment and without a break in eating turned to the cowboy, "J'u ask him?" Gus asked, somewhat disgusted.

"Well, no," The man reluctantly replied.

"The young man's a real, rodeo cowboy all right. You can bet chore’ boots on that. Waddie and his brother were junior champion ropers two years in a row. Like any real cowboy, he don't go ‘round boasting his accomplishments. He don't tell nobody nothing unless asked. No real rodeo cowboy's gonna' tell you a damn thing less'n you ask him right nice," Gus said in defense of his boy. Randy Crenshaw chuckled and patted Gus on the back. All the years he'd been neighbors and good friends with Gus he never heard him raise his voice or jump to anyone's defense like he just did. Then Randy couldn't contain it anymore and laughed. The rest of the men at the table laughed with Mr. Crenshaw. Gus nailed the man to the barn door and just describe their cowboy brother in spades.

After lunch, Billy Bob and Earl D. were in the next set and won that round. Cassidy and J.R. won easily against the two grown men they went up against. They rode over to Waddie sitting between Gus and Toller on the fence and were basking in the glow of Waddie's compliments about the things they were improving, how much smoother and professional they appeared, and best of all, they were calm and collected. They asked Waddie if he saw anything else they might do to improve? He told them two or three things. The next round they were even better.

Dad Crenshaw roped with both his boys, Waddie and Toller. He introduce everyone to Waddie as one of his boys, and Waddie couldn't have been prouder. At the end of the day, the team who made the best time of the day was Waddie and Toller. Their dad couldn't have been prouder of them. He won himself a little extra cash which he promptly gave to momma. Folks didn't start going home until late afternoon. Dad Crenshaw had the boys put up the stock. That meant rubbing the ponies down and feeding them. Waddie helped Gus hitch the Morgans to his carriage. The youngest, Shad, started helping, then got bored and wandered off.

Gus was talking with Waddie. "Ain't seen Randy Crenshaw this happy in a long time, Son," he said.

"He always seems pretty happy to me, Dad," Waddie replied.

"Nobody will tell you, because they don't talk about it, but they had another boy exactly your age who was a rising talent in roping like you and Toller. He came down with some rare blood disease almost overnight and died within weeks of the doctors discovering it. It almost tore Randy and Sarah up. For a while the only dad the boys had was me, the older two boys, and Bubba. Bubba came home and stopped driving for a little over eight months to help Randy and Sarah get back on their feet."

"That must've been horrible for them, Dad," Waddie said with empathy.

"It was. That's why Randy ain't worked with Toller like he should. He's afraid he might lose another son. It wasn't until Sarah got pregnant with little Shad, Randy started coming around. He got back on his feet, but there's always been a hole in his heart for Thane. That was the boy's name, Thane. You come along and he's back being his old self again. You don't know how much that means to all of us, especially the older two. They mourned the lost of Thane and their dad for almost five years now. That's only one more reason the boys think you're the greatest thing since sliced bread. You've given them back their dad. I ain't heard so much laughter and joy in that house in a long while, Son, I'll tell ya.' God brought you and the Crenshaw family together for the good of both. It ain't just you what's gettin' all the help, here. You got no idea what you're doing for Randy and Sarah and the Crenshaw family as a whole. In a way, your helping us, too, 'cause we've been a long time worried about 'em."

"Thanks for sharing that with me, Dad. It explains a lot. I was beginning to wonder. I ain't done nothing so great to merit all the attention they showered on me, but now it begins to make sense. H’it don't change anything as far as the way I feel about them. If anything, it makes me wanna’ love Dad Crenshaw more. I'm surprised Earl D. or Billy Bob never said nothing to me about it; or Bubba for that matter."

"They tried to put it behind them. They got so use to not talking about it, they suppress what happened so's not to slip and bring it up around Randy. He still ain’t dealt with the loss of Thane that I know of. That's why it's so great to see him coming around. One of these days he's gonna' snap, it's all gonna' come pouring out, and that's when he'll need all of us including you, Waddie. That man seriously thinks of you as his son, not a replacement for Thane but another son. I'm proud to say I do, too, Waddie," Gus said and smiled at Waddie. Waddie hugged Gus, and told him he felt the same way.

"By the way, Son, Bubba mentioned visiting your family, and couldn't say enough good things about your dad, Buck, and the rest of yore’ family. He considers he has another family out there. He also told us he met a fine woman whom he likes very much, and is considering dating. She works for your dad or Uncle Buck, you call him."

"Oh, really, how wonderful. That would be Mrs. Anderson. Jannie Anderson's mother. Jannie, me, and my brothers, are in the same grade together. She sure is a pretty little girl, Dad, and she gets her looks from her mother. Mrs. Anderson's a fine looking lady. I'd be thrilled if something came of that."

"You want the truth, Dora and I would, too. We almost give up hope of grandchildren, but we ain't gonna' get worked up too much about it. He's a little worried how you might feel about his dating Mrs. Anderson. I told him I thought I knew you well enough to know you'd be the first one to tell him you were thrilled."

"You're right, Dad, I would be more than thrilled. Should I say anything to him about it?" Waddie asked.

"He's gonna' be through with his run Monday or Tuesday. Said he's gonna' spend some time with you, and then come home for several days. I think he plans to talk to you about it then. I think he'll bring it up. If not, use your best judgement, Waddie. You're a sensitive man, and I know how much you and Bubba love each other."

"You're right about that, Dad. I ain't ashamed of the love I feel for Bubba. I love him enough I want him to be happy, and if that would make my buddy happy, I'll be the first one to wish him well. Actually, I couldn't think of anything that would make me happier. The only mom I had until my dad married my real mom was Mrs. Anderson. I know that sounds confusing, but you have to understand some things."

"Bubba explained to me, Waddie. Randy don't know, but you can tell him if you need to. Bubba said Uriel told him you and Randy Crenshaw are going to need each other very much quite soon. I won't tell him anything, Son, that'll be up to you. I have told him there are miraculous things about you, he and Sarah don't know yet, but they will."

"Dad, can I ask you a personal question?" Waddie asked.

"Shore,’ Son, anything," Gus replied.

"Did Bubba ever love you the way him and me love each other?" Waddie asked looking down at his dirty work boots. He raised his head slightly and hit Dad Gus with his killer grin and winked at him. Gus already knew what Waddie meant but chuckled to himself. He wasn't gonna' lie to the kid. The boy was too bright, and would know if he lied to him.

"Sure, Son. I never asked him to. I caught him, Billy Bob, Earl D., and the Moffet boy across the way. Earl D. and Billy Bob were scared to death. They thought fer' sure I was gonna' tell their pa. I didn't, but I come to find out, Randy knew about 'um all along. Still does. He don't care. He's proud of his boys, and he loves Bubba like one of his own. I've often suspected Randy and Bubba mess around some, but I would never ask either one. S'none of my business. If'n my boy and Randy can find a moment to share a bit of love with each other, I wouldn't deny either one. I assured the boys I wouldn't tell their dads. I told the Moffet boy the same, and told ‘um to run along on home to help their dads. I was gonna' give Bubba the standard fatherly sermon or at least what I though I was suppose to tell him. I had conflicting thoughts about it, though.

"I remembered the days when I was a young buck going to every rodeo in the area ever’ chance I got. I experimented around with several of my buddies. I never minded getting my dick sucked, I just couldn't never do it to nobody else. Ain't a man or a cowboy out there what ain't got his dick sucked by another man one time or another. I don't care how much he swears he ain't, he's lying. I told Bubba what he and the boys was doing might be looked on as a bad thing by some folks. That's probably because they don't know about love and don't care to learn. I told him I was sure they'd grow out of it in time and start to consider women. Then he surprised the hell out of me by telling me he always wanted to show his love for me that way, and would I let him? I thought about it for a minute. Not a very long minute, though," Gus said, threw back his head and laughed. Waddie laughed, too.

"Dora and I'd been through a long dry spell and Bubba seemed honest about his need to show me his love that a' way. I thought, 'What could it hurt to let the boy take care of his old man once?' 'Sides, I'd been so horny for a week or more, the crack of dawn was looking good to me. I love Bubba so much, he never gave me any cause to raise my voice at him let alone punish him for anything. He was a good boy, but I was never sure I was showing him enough love. Me and Dora, we never had no kids before Bubba come along. If that's what he needed to show me his love, to relieve me, to show me a little comfort, I was at least gonna' try it once. So I decided to give the boy a chance. Well, Son, my boy was damn good. I didn't know having another man do that for you could feel so good. In my younger days, it was okay, but the cowboy what was a' sucking my dick usually weren't that good. They always got me off, but h’it just weren't satisfying.

"It was so good with Bubba I found myself making a little love to my boy. I let him have as much as he needed. I thanked him, told him how much I loved, and appreciated him. I was a little worried about it at first, but it just felt right. It broke down a lot of barriers, and I was able to tell Bubba how much I loved him. It came to be something I wanted and needed every now and then. I thought it was just because I was getting my rocks off, but it was more’n ‘nat. I come to realize, I needed Bubba to show me his love, and he needed me to let him. I began to understand that once in a while I needed that feeling of closeness with my boy. I'd wanted it for a long time. Bubba was so natural about it. He is with everything. He made me feel relaxed enough I'd ask him occasionally. It wasn't because I ever stopped loving Dora, she's a wonderful woman. She'd have to be to put up with me all these years, but as women get older they don't seem to want to, well, you know.

"It became a wonderful thing I shared with my boy, and it brought us closer together. Because of that closeness there were no doubts in his or my mind he had become my son. Everybody saw the change. They didn't know what brought it about, but we did. There were a lot of folks out there what think they might have the right to judge Bubba'n me. Ain’t nobody's damn business but me and ma' boy's. He ain't never said 'no' if I needed him. You have no idea how I missed that when Bubba went away. Would you believe I have a wet dream ever now and then dreaming about my boy?" Gus asked.

"I'd be honored and proud if you ever saw fit to allow me to love you that way, Dad," Waddie said quietly.

"Are you sure, Son? You're awfully young, Waddie, but you're big for your age. You don't have to do nothing like that for my love. You already done got my love, cowboy. I love you as much as Randy Crenshaw, 'at's fer damn sure," Gus confirmed.

"If I didn't feel love from you, Dad, I wouldn't be so bold to ask. It's just something that would make me feel closer to you, and I think I need that from you. If you say 'no' I ain't gonna' love you a whit less," Waddie replied.

"Well, I assume you and Bubba have..."

"Yes, sir, I begged Bubba. Weren't his idea, just like this weren't your idea, neither. I didn't know whether Bubba would let me. I know he has some pretty strong ideas about right and wrong; fortunately, for you and me he has that one ironed out right. I know you might think I'm just a kid and in some ways I still am. I ain't in no hurry to grow up, Dad, but I'm old enough to know how I feel, and what I want. It would be an expression of my respect and love for you. Besides, I just know you'd taste real good," Waddie said and grinned.

"You think Bubba would be angry with me?" Gus asked.

"Gosh, no, Dad. He loves us both. I'm his little brother. Can't his little brother love you as much as him? In the same way? He'd be thrilled, if I know Bubba like I think I do."

"You'd have a hell of a time git’n away from here by yourself."

"You look awful tired from today, Dad..." Waddie said and winked at Gus. Yore’ son is gonna' ride over with you to help put the horses away, and walk back across the two meadows. You walk me to the low water dam to make sure nothing happens to me," Waddie suggested and winked at his new dad. 'Damn,' he thought, 'I just know Gus is gonna' taste mighty fine.' He watched Gus' snake once again crawl down his pants leg, and they both laughed. Waddie grabbed his own to show Gus. Gus fell out laughing. It was like an ice breaker sailing through tropical waters.

"Sure could use yore’ help, Son, guess I am a bit tired, after all," Gus said, and they both chuckled at his double meaning.

"You got it, Dad. Trust me. You only got room for four in the carriage anyway," Waddie observed.

"You're right, Son," Gus replied.

Gus, Dora, and Brenda Lou were the last to leave. Waddie already asked Dad Crenshaw's permission to ride over and help Dad Gus with the Morgans. Waddie told him Gus would walk him to the low water damn to make sure he got home all right. He'd only be about an hour. He'd be home before supper. Randy Crenshaw had no problem with Waddie's thoughtfulness, and sent him on his way with his blessing. Dora and Brenda Lou were pleased to have Waddie ride back with them. They thought it was nice he volunteered to help his new dad with the team. It took a good while for one person to get the horses out of the rigging, rubbed down, and fed. With two working together, it didn't seem to take long at all. Besides, it's always nicer to have someone around to talk with while you're working.

They arrived and Waddie said his goodbyes to the ladies. He was returning to the Crenshaws as soon as he finished helping Gus. He and Gus got busy, and took care of the horses. They continued their conversation and talked about many things. Waddie was beginning to see a deeper side to Gus he hadn't seen before. The more his got to know Gus and be around him the more he craved to taste his cowboy cream. They finished, and Gus told Waddie they would walk by an older barn about halfway to the low water dam. Gus used it for hay storage and equipment that needed repair. Gus was sure they wouldn't be disturbed. Waddie thought that was a great idea.

They walked slowly toward the old barn. Gus put his arm around Waddie and pulled him close as they walked and talked. Gus didn't appear anxious, but Waddie got a glimpse of Gus' snake trying to crawl down his leg to get out of his Wranglers. It made Waddie feel good to know Gus was looking forward to being a little closer to his new son. They walked into the old barn and Waddie asked Gus if he'd like to sit on a bale of hay and relax. Gus sat down and undid his big rodeo belt buckle. He won a few rodeo's in his day busting broncs. Waddie asked him if he could take it out of his pants for him. Gus sat back, smiled, and let Waddie take over.

When Waddie took Gus' cock and balls out he smiled. Not because of it's size but the masculine beauty of Gus' penis. Gus had a classic eight and a half inch, uncut, cowboy cock. Waddie almost came in his jeans thinking how good it was going to taste. He looked up at Gus, smiled real big, and winked like he was very pleased with his find. Waddie could smell a full days worth of Gus' male odor. Gus was a clean man, but any man after a full, active day is going to have a nice, strong, healthy male scent. It was almost hypnotic to the boy as he deeply breathed in Gus' aroma. Waddie kissed, licked, and cleaned Gus' cock, enjoying the taste as well as the wonderful smells he was getting from Gus' crotch.

Waddie couldn't have been more turned on. He gently took Gus' balls into his hand, and kissed each one like a holy relic. He proceeded to clean them with his tongue getting all of Gus' good male flavors from them. He could taste and smell the fullness of the man bursting forth with flavor into his mouth, through his nose, and into his lungs. He was becoming intoxicated with Gus' tastes and smells. Waddie took just the head of Gus' cock into his mouth and began to suck gently. His tongue found the entrance of Gus' foreskin and began to explore underneath. Gus was beginning to move on the hay bale in ecstasy at the feel of Waddie's tongue on his cock head. Waddie plunged deep to get the best flavors from around and underneath Gus' cock head. Gus was going crazy. Waddie knew a couple of hits on his dad's cowboy dick would bring him to climax. Gus was a bit smaller than Bubba but a little bigger than Ed. Waddie did his lunge to the base, and he thought Gus was going to jump off the hay bale.

"Som'bitch, cowboy!" He exclaimed, "That was something extra special. You didn't tell me you were experienced at this. Oh shit. Son, you don't know how good this is for yore' old man. I'm honored and proud you consider me one of yore’ dad's, cowboy. I almost came in my pants when I pulled that boot out a' the box yesterday. Boots are a very personal thing to a man, and to have another man give you such a fine, handsome pair, say's more'n just I love you. I felt the same way, Son."

That's all Waddie needed to get himself a taste of a fine looking, mature cowboy's cream. After the second lunge Waddie knew Gus was going to shoot. He lunged the third time, and Waddie felt Gus flowing though his penis like a volcano about to erupt. Waddie pulled back just enough to catch every drop in his mouth. Gus erupted like Krakatoa, West of Java. Waddie didn't stop until he was damn sure he drained his cowboy dad's balls. He wasn't sorry he did either. Gus had the best tasting come. He kept ejaculating for sometime. Waddie didn't think he'd stop. Gus went physically limp like his bones turned to used Jello. He was spent. He used both hands to gently rub Waddie's head as Waddie cleaned him, and got the remains of Gus' great tasting cowboy cream. He cleaned under Gus' foreskin to get the last bits of his cowboy dad's come from underneath. There was something about come underneath a foreskin mixed with Gus’ pungent male flavors that kept Waddie hard for hours afterward.

He cleaned Gus really good, reached back and grabbed his bandanna to gently dry Gus before returning him to his Wranglers. Gus pulled the boy into his arms and held him tight. He kissed Waddie full on the mouth inviting Waddie to take as much love from him as he needed. Gus didn't want to overwhelm the boy, but he wanted to show him all the love he could handle. Waddie wasn't greedy, but he took himself a deep, well deserved, drink from his new dad's well. Waddie didn't hold back. He hadn't made sweet love to anyone since Bubba. The Crenshaw boys would steal kisses from him and hold him, but there was no sex. He wasn't complaining. 'Hell,' he thought to himself, 'I'd sleep twixt them two ole boys anytime, and gladly have them steal ever' damn one of my kisses.'

"I love you, cowboy," Dad Franz said to him, "H'it feels good to say them words, Waddie, and feel close to you. Thank you, Son, for taking me. I had no idea you had that much experience. I never had a feeling like that even with Bubba. Don't get me wrong, ain't nothing wrong with my boy, Bubba, but Son, you're special. I just feel it and know it. You know how to make love to a man, and make him feel like a king," Gus complimented him. They kissed deeply again and Waddie was enjoying the warmth of Gus' arms, but he knew he had to get back.

"I'd love to stay a little longer, Dad, but we better be on our way. I promised I'd be home for supper. You know I love you, and I know you, Bubba, and the Crenshaws are gonna' be in my life for a long time. If Bubba ain't around, and I can give you a little comfort, I'd be downright proud and honored to help my dad out anytime he needs it."

Gus kissed Waddie again. "You know I will, Son. I think you need my love as much as I need yours. Thanks again, Waddie."

"Let's go, Dad," Waddie said. The two men left the barn with Gus' arm around Waddie. He held him close the rest of the way to the low-water dam. When they arrived, they were still hidden from the sight of both ranches. Gus took Waddie in his arms one final time. "God be with you, cowboy," Gus blessed him.

"And with you, Dad," Waddie replied.

They kissed goodbye and parted. Gus watched as Waddie walked across the low-water damn to the other side. Waddie waved goodbye and started walking toward the other ranch. He barely got out of sight of the dam when he saw a lone figure walking toward him. It was Dad Crenshaw coming to meet him. They met, and Waddie was happy Randy walked out to meet him. He offered his hand to his new dad and got the feeling his new dad wanted to embrace him but he didn't. He put his arm around Waddie, and they talked as they walked the rest of the way to the house. Dad Crenshaw was in a great mood and the evening around the supper table was fun, filled with lively conversation. It was a long day and after dinner everyone retired to the living room. Once again, Shad crawled up into his big brother Waddie's lap and promptly went to sleep. Waddie held him tight, stole a kiss, and that was the last thing he remembered. They were both asleep propped up against Earl D. The other boys were dropping like flies, one by one.

Randy Crenshaw's heart hadn't been so full and happy in a long while. He smiled to himself at what a wonderful moment it was. The two older boys, Randy, and Sara had to pick up each one and carry them into bed. Waddie was the last, and Dad Crenshaw insisted he carry him into the boy's room. Billy Bob and Earl D. giggled and nudged each other. They watched as their dad gently laid Waddie down and stole a kiss. The young men were amused because they planned to wake Waddie anyway to bathe him. He had a long day, but he didn't spend it all in the saddle. He was smart. When he wasn't riding he sat on the corral fence next to Gus and posted Whiskey. The boys woke him, and carried a groggy, half awake, half asleep cowboy into the shower. Earl D. held him as Billy Bob cleaned. They cleaned him good, dried him, and laughed at his zombie like state. They no sooner got him on his stomach to apply the medicine than he was out like a light. They finished and moved him up to the middle of their bed. They turned out the lights, lay there gently rubbing their little brother's shoulders, and stealing a kiss or two.

"Have you fallen as hard as I have?" Billy Bob asked in a whisper.

"Harder, brother, much harder," Earl D. replied shaking his head in wonderment.

"What's with this kid? Ever’ one he meets falls head over heels in love with him?" Billy Bob asked.

"It's everything he is, Billy. I'll bet chu' a blow job that trip to help Gus wasn't only to unharness them horses," Earl D. laughed quietly.

"I wouldn't take that bet, but all I can say is, if so, good for them. I watched him today. He was attentive to Gus all day. It was like he was worried Gus might think he loved dad more than him. Gus ate it up. His old saddle horn stayed up all afternoon watching Waddie rope. He was thrilled by Waddie's attention, so if they shared a little love, more power to 'em," Billy Bob allowed. "Do you get the idea dad would?" Billy Bob asked then stopped.

"In a cow town minute, brother," Earl D. didn't hesitate to answer.

"You think Waddie would...?" Billy Bob asked.

"Does a cow go 'moo'?" Earl D. laughed. "Ain't chu' seen the way this one looks at dad, like he's the last doughnut in the box and everybody’s had one but him. Be the best thing in the world for both of 'um. There's things we don't know about this one yet, brother. Bubba said they were amazing things."

"When will we find out?" Billy Bob asked.

"I got a feeling it'll be soon... real soon," Earl D. replied.

* * * * * * *
The next morning was Sunday. While every morning on a ranch is an early morning, it was a little more relaxed. Waddie woke up to his brothers tickling and teasing him. He slept so hard he had a difficult time waking up. He couldn't remember a time he slept so deeply. He smiled to himself and secretly wondered if it might've been the shot of Gus' sweet cowboy cream he enjoyed that made him relax so deeply. He was groggy and wanted nothing better than shuffle back to dreamland. His brothers weren't going to let him. He tried his damnedest to ignore them. They needed to get him up, in the shower, medicated, and dressed for breakfast.

It was go to church day. Waddie woke up somewhere between getting bathed by Billy Bob and herded by Earl D. back into the bedroom to lie on his stomach. While Earl D. was medicating his backside, Waddie promptly went back to sleep. His brothers had to carry him into breakfast in a state of somnambulistic ennui. There was a slight response to external stimuli but limited motor coordination noted. The headlights didn't seem to want to come on, and the starter gear refused to engage. The family got a chuckle at their groggy, sleepy-eyed, cowboy brother. Dad Crenshaw was laughing at Waddie. He knew Waddie had a full day the day before, and it took it out of him; it wore him out. His dad came to his defense.

"The kid ran himself ragged yesterday, but he seemed like he was having a hell of a good time. It's no wonder he's a bit groggy. Give him some of yore’ coffee, D.," He instructed Earl D. The smell of breakfast, a few sips of Earl D.'s coffee and Waddie was resurrected. There was life after sleep. He finally came alive and was talking to everyone. After breakfast, everyone got dressed for church. When the family gathered, Waddie and his brothers admired their dad in his new boots. They were a handsome complement to such a fine looking cowboy. The total package was a knock out. Earl D. and Billy Bob told their dad how good he looked. Randy Crenshaw blushed and hugged Waddie to thank him again for his new boots. He was really proud of them.

"I think you look very handsome in them, Dad. It's not too often, but once in a while, I do something right. Bringing you and Dad Gus them boots was one of my better efforts," Waddie told his dad. Randy Crenshaw stole another kiss from Waddie and the Crenshaws were off to church.

* * * * * * *
Church was pleasant. It was a beautiful day and folks were standing out front talking when the Crenshaws arrived. Everyone was glad to see the Crenshaws and many greeted Waddie. Gus, Dora, and Brenda Lou were already there. Gus was wearing his new boots and had a big grin on his face as he hugged Waddie and whispered his thanks again. "I wish't you could see yore'self through my eyes, Dad Gus," Waddie whispered back, "Damnation, you look hot in them boots. Good enough to eat," Waddie giggled and Gus laughed.

Waddie got a hug and a kiss from Dora and Brenda Lou. Johnnie Mack Tamplin came ambling over to shake hands. Everyone entered and took their seats. The circuit preacher wasn't there that Sunday. A lay preacher from the congregation led the service. The man's name was Gerald Walker. He was a good enough leader, but he lacked a lot when it came to being a dynamic speaker. He read from notes, and it was long and dull. Waddie had to keep nudging Dad Crenshaw to stay awake. Gerald Walker was well meant, but he was lethal. He finally finished, said a prayer, they sang one more hymn, and the service was over. Waddie never saw a group of people more happy to be out of church. Several of the men asked Dad Crenshaw if they were going to be rodeoing that afternoon. He told them no, yesterday was the only day they were receiving folks for rodeoing. He needed some time with his boys. Three would be leaving Monday morning, and he wanted a chance to be with them. The men understood and everyone went home.

The Franz fixed Sunday dinner for everyone that day and the Crenshaws gathered at the Franz's. Dora and Brenda Lou out did themselves with fried chicken and all the trimmings. It was a wonderful meal. There was lively conversation around the table. Gus said he thought old man Walker was a gold plated bore. Everyone broke up laughing. He was pretty deadly. Waddie looked at Dad Crenshaw and winked. He laughed at Waddie, and thanked him for keeping him awake. The afternoon went by fast, and the Crenshaws headed back over to their place. Dad Crenshaw told Gus they'd probably be roping some. They weren't going to push it, but if he'd like to join them, come on over, he was welcome.

Gus thanked him, but said he thought he'd stay around the place, he needed to get a couple of things done. They embraced and the Crenshaws went home. They did do a little roping that afternoon, but the youngest boy, Shad, was pestering Waddie to teach him to rope. Waddie wished he had his junior rodeo roping rope to teach him with. It was so much easier to learn the basics than a regular rope. He saw Ma Crenshaw was using a pretty heavy corded rope for clothes lines. He asked her if there was any left over, and she told him she believed there was. She found it for him underneath a cabinet on the back porch. Waddie sat at a picnic table near the arena, and made Shad a practice rope.

Over the years, Waddie repaired his, Gip, Clyde, and Oatie's learning ropes so many times he could make one in his sleep. He got the loop just right, and while the cord was a bit heavier than their practice ropes, it was perfect for teaching purposes. None of the boys ever saw a practice rope, especially a junior version. Waddie found an old wooden nail keg sitting in the barn and brought it outside. The boys helped weight it down by putting big rocks inside. Waddie drew a large circle in the dirt around the keg with a big stick. He told Shad it was the walk-around line. The idea was to walk around the circle twirling the rope, not stopping, and throw to catch the barrel. If you stopped, stepped over the line, or didn't make your catch, you were eliminated. First he taught Shad how to twirl the rope to get it ready for throwing. Shad was well coordinated and learned fast, much faster than Waddie thought he might for a five year old kid, but then, Waddie was only five when Uncle Buck bought him his first rope and Quinton taught him the same way. Of course, the two older than Shad wanted to learn, too. They paid rapt attention to Waddie's instructions to Shad, so Waddie let them practice on their own, while he made two more practice ropes.

Dad Crenshaw, the two oldest boys, and Toller came over and sat with him while he was making the ropes. J.R. and Cassidy were in the arena. He could tell Dad Crenshaw was a little disappointed Waddie wasn't out roping with them, but he was pleased the boy was trying to help his little brothers. Dad Crenshaw was impressed and admired Waddie's knowledge. He could see Waddie knew what he was doing teaching the three younger boys to rope and rope the right way. He watched the meticulous manner in which Waddie made the ropes for the boys and marveled at his dexterity.

"I was gonna' wait 'til these boys were a little older to start 'em learning," Randy said.

"I'm sorry, Dad. Am I doing something wrong? I should've asked, but Shad kept pestering me, and you know I got a soft spot for him. He's my little buddy," Waddie said.

"No, Son, not at all. I'm happy they're interested in learning. It's all because of you, you know?" Randy grinned.

"Shad's the right age, Dad. So's the other two. You'll have some fine ropers before you know it. Look at my brother Toller, here, he started when he was six. He's doing all right. Toller's one of the finest young ropers I done seen in a while, and I'll tell you right now you got three more on your hands who are just a talented as Toller." Waddie looked at Toller, "You might wanna’ consider working with yore’ youngest brother Toller. It’ll be hard bringing him along at first, take a lot a’ patience on yore’ part, but once you get him broken in as your partner -- woah, dogies -- you'll win every junior rodeo around.”

"How can you tell so quickly a kid has talent, Waddie?" Earl D. asked.

"I can tell the way he first handles a rope, whether he begins to use it as just a tool to catch something or as an extension of himself. Watch the three of them. I already drilled it in Shad's mind, not to pick up the rope until he thinks of it as an extension of himself, his arms, his body, and his soul. Ever’ time he makes a throw, it's his all he's throwing out there. Now, see the difference? I ain't told Jeb or Brant. Now watch Shad."

The men watched intently as Shad smoothly and effortlessly landed the rope easily around the keg. "I'll be damn. I shore’ as hell can see it. You see it, boys?" Dad Crenshaw asked Earl D., Billy Bob, and Toller. They agreed with their dad. "That's amazing, Son. You got a knack for teaching folks what you want 'em to learn."

"Just teach'n 'em the way I was taught, Dad. The same's my older brother, Quinton, taught me; ain't no different. Now watch this," Waddie said and he laid the two lassos out on the table and called for Jeb and Brant. They came running over, saw the ropes Waddie made for them and went to pick them up. Waddie stopped them. "Jeb... Brant... I made these ropes special for you. They're your practice ropes, and they're just like Shad's. Get chore’ dad to help you mark 'em later so's you won't mix 'em up. Only your rope is gonna' feel right for you. Later, if you swap ropes with either of your brothers and try to use it, it will have a different weight and feel. You'll know immediately it ain't your rope. Now before you pick it up, close your eyes, and think about picking up something what's gonna' become an extension of you, an extension of your arm, of your body, and of your soul. Think. Look in yore' mind and see this as the minute your practice rope is about to join with you to do what you want it to. It's like a bond between a cowboy and his rope. Don't pick it up until you're sure you see it the way I done told you," Waddie insisted. The boys closed their eyes. Waddie told them again, slowly, exactly, word for word, how he wanted them to see their ropes as an extension of themselves. He wanted them to stand apart from themselves, see themselves twirling the rope, and then making the throw. Envision it in their minds several times.

"When you think you can feel it, open your eyes and pick up your rope," he urged them. The boys continued to stand for several minutes weaving a little, then opened their eyes. They reverently picked up their ropes. They thanked and hugged Waddie for making them.

"Now, ever’ time before you pick up yore’ rope to practice, close your eyes and think for a minute what I just told you. It's important, can you remember?" Waddie asked.

"Yes, Waddie. Thank you, brother," they replied.

"Okay, then, go on. Practice with your brother," Waddie said. They ran off, and started walking around the circle with Shad.

"Now watch, Dad," Waddie said somewhat smugly. The men couldn't believe what they saw. The way the boys twirled and threw the rope was smooth, flowing and they, too, began to hit every time. Before, they couldn't even get the loop open enough to catch the keg, and were frustrated their younger brother was better than they were. No more, though. They were catching up fast.

"I'll be go to hell!" Billy Bob exclaimed.

"In a hand basket." Earl D. added with awe.

"Son of a buck, Waddie," whispered Dad Crenshaw, "you just taught them boys what it would've taken us, combined, a year or more...right, men?" Dan asked. They all agreed.

"I'd appreciate it if'n you'd make me one of them practice ropes, Waddie, when you have time," Toller asked him quietly.

"You know, brother," Waddie looked at Toller, "I still practice with my practice rope. All my brothers practice with theirs, too. Ever’ now and then we'll get 'em out, and do exactly the same thing them three are doing right now. It's great practice. I'll be happy to make you one, Toller. You'll notice within a week how much more accurate it'll make you."

"Could you, please, make two more, Waddie," Billy Bob and Earl D. looked sheepish.

"Better make that three more, Son, if you got time. I'd appreciate it," Randy said. The boys laughed at their old man, "What? Yore’ old man ain't beyond learning. I may be old, but I ain't blind. I can see what it's doing for them boys, and I fully agree with you, Waddie. They'll be a handful when it comes to competing," he said. Dad Crenshaw found some more corded rope and Waddie made one for Toller, and taught the other three men to make their own. They were perfect when they finished. That evening at supper there was no longer the big guys talking about roping, and the little guys being left out. Sarah Crenshaw smiled at what suddenly came over her men. They were speaking the same language -- team roping. She hadn't seen her husband this happy since before they lost Thane. She had a tug at her heart. Mother's aren't suppose to have favorites, but she admitted only to herself that two of her boys were most dear to her. The older one wasn't even her biological child. Earl D. grabbed her heart within the first week he came to live with them and never let go. She tried not to, God knows she tried hard, but there was just something special about Earl D.

He didn't take her for granted like the other boys except Thane. Thane was the nearest thing she could imagine to an angel. He was the sweetest baby of all the boys. He never gave her a moments problem. He rarely cried. He wouldn't even cry when he messed himself. She had to check him regularly to see. Earl D. immediately loved his little brother, Thane, and took him everywhere he went. She never had to worry about Thane being looked after. Earl D. was always right there. She loved them so, but was afraid to tell either because she didn't want the others to think she loved them less. It wasn't a matter of the degree of love. It was because the two boys were special. One was taken from her. Had she sinned? Was loving this child in a special way the reason God took him away? She immediately transferred most of her love for Thane onto Earl D. She was so afraid to lose him. The other brothers saw it but overlooked it. They saw what it did to Earl D. when he lost his little brother. Earl D. suffered almost as much as his parents because he invested so much time and love into his little brother. He often wondered to himself if he sinned against God to have his beloved little brother taken away from him.

The boys knew and understood Earl D. needed extra love from their Ma and Pa. He lost his parents and now his beloved brother. They even loved Earl D. more because of it, especially Billy Bob. He worshiped Earl D. and loved him more than just a brother. Billy Bob could see Earl D. loving Waddie the same way he worshiped Thane. At first he was uneasy about it, but then, began to see his brother bloom again with love, not only for Waddie but for life itself. Billy Bob knew it was good. Sarah Crenshaw knew this new son was special. His charms and thoughtfulness reminded her so much of Thane. She even watched him walk with the same swagger as Thane. Even the soft unassuming way he talked with her and his brothers reminded her of Thane. The respect he showed for his dad and his unconditional love for her never gave her reason to doubt his sincerity. She wondered if Randy noticed. She didn't have the heart to ask. All she knew was she was taken with Waddie as much or more than any of them. He went out of his way to include her in everything they talked about. She could feel the same feelings welling up within her she felt for Thane.

That evening as he hugged her, told her he loved her, kissed her gently, Sarah looked Waddie in the eyes and spoke softly to him. "You may never know what you've done for us, Waddie, especially me. Trust me, you've done as much for us as we have for you. For that, I'm grateful and love you more than you can know. Don't let that frighten you, you'll always be my boy same's you are Randy’s. I just wanted you to know when he tells you, you're welcome here, he means it for both of us," she assured him.

"Thanks, Ma, I appreciate that. You have the sweetest of dreams, Ma," Waddie said.

"Tonight, sweetheart, I promise, I will."

That night, for the first time in a long while, Sarah gave herself to her husband. Something happened to him. He never made such love to her in all their years together. She never knew such love was possible. Before her husband moved to take her, she found herself begging him. Begging him with all the need and pent up frustrations of five years of unsuccessful attempts to mourn, unable to communicate to each other the depth of their loss. Sarah urged her husband to take her with swiftness and strength. Let us bring our bodies together and mourn our loss through our ecstasy. Let us share his love, and our loss in this time of coming together. This reawakening of hope and this moment of trust reaffirming our faith that love such as his for us and ours for him will never die, can never be taken from us, and will abide with us forever. Love is stronger than death. Let our love that created Thane be our reaffirmation. Let us release his love we held so close, so dear, back to our Father. Let us sing, 'Oh, Death, where is thy sting? Oh, Grave, thy victory?'

Randy Crenshaw found himself lost in his wife's ecstasy, and saw a new direction in their love. He always took what was his by right of marriage, and it worked until this night. He suddenly realized his wife made it work for him. This night it was his turn to give, to make it work for her. They lay together afterward crying in each other's arms, kissing, making love, and crying some more. Not a word was spoken. She didn't want him to leave her. He felt her need, and they remained together all night. They awoke the next morning as he began to grow strong within her. She encouraged him with gentle movements of her hips as she lay in her husband's protective arms. Sarah received his gentle kisses as the nectar of his love for her. They had forgiven themselves, and in turn, each other. And the Lord saw that Sarah and Randy Crenshaw had come to know the joy of love again and blessed them that night with their eleventh son, including Gip and Waddie. Waddie jokingly insisted they name him, Cowboy. His full name on his birth certificate: Cowboy Waddie Crenshaw. His big brother, Waddie, was the first to hold him in his arms after his ma. He gently held the babe like he was gold, kissed him gently on his forehead, and wept at his beauty.

End Of Chapter 16 ~ Cabbage Patch Cowboy
Copyright © 2004/2013 ~ Waddie Greywolf
All rights reserved ~
Mail to: waddiebear@yahoo.com
Proofed: 01/01/2013
WC 17424