Headstall

Thank you for saying so, Leo. I always try my best to give us something that touches us and lets us escape to another world for a time. Bearpaw has become such a place, just like Larkspur. There is a lot to be mined from this time period, and it has become a great love of mine. Happy you liked this chapter plenty, and I appreciate your kind words and support.

Yes, money well spent for them. Thanks, Parker. Pleased you enjoyed it.

Sacre bleu!

It's cold here too, but I think I'm better off than you right now, Mags. Thank you for saying this. First of all, I have a genuine interest in all sorts of things to do with the subject matter, but research still has to be done. I do my best to get all the details right, or at the very least, not be wrong about them. Research isn't infallible, but common sense plays a part to, and I've absorbed a lot of stuff through my numerous years. You've made your day with your appreciation for my efforts. I strive for an authentic feel, especially to my westerns, without overloading the readers with unimportant stuff that will bore a reader to tears. So, if I'm told I get that balance right, I am a happy author. Cheers!

Yes, and my bookmark said they were marketed commercially until 1839, but didn't become common for a few years after that. On the frontiers, folks had to be innovative, using the materials at hand. Wire screening could probably be ordered into Bearpaw and towns like it in the 1850s, but burlap would have done the trick while using a common fabric close at hand. I love that spirit of recycling. I do it all the time... always thinking what I can use something for that I have no need for anymore. For me, it has nothing to do with cost... and my younger daughter picked the habit up from me. Nothing trashy, though.

They can afford the fine. Probably figured it into risk/reward. Our data paid for it anyway.

Less fun that way. I'd like to see the face of anyone snooping browsing history and seeing 'two-peckered rabbit'.

Let there be light... yeah, I get that, my friend, and it is awesome to hear. Buying the land was a natural progression for them as a couple... not necessary, but definitely a smart move. I always knew Reid was a decent man, but it's understandable his nose was out of joint when Jubal showed up. But, he's one who takes his lumps straight up, and now we see he's a good guy after all. It must have been hard for him to live in back of the office, never far away from the job's demands. I like too, that he cares so much about his gelding, worrying over him getting sick again. I used to have my horses at a boarding barn when I was in my teens and early twenties, and I hated when sickness went through the barn. Every time a new horse came in it seemed we had some sort of outbreak. We were always sterilizing mangers and water buckets. Glad you liked this one, dear lady. Thank you for always being there with your support.

It wonderful to be wanted, spyke, but the end is near.

Pretty sure my ex was one. At least, he acted like he was. Just ask anyone.

Oh, hell. Me too, Doc.

I'm pretty sure there are only two two-peckered rabbits, and their names are Lucas and Jubal. Can't say about the neighbors, but it's a wonderful day in the gayborhood... Lol. Thanks, Dan the Man.

Cool! Thanks, Mags! These guys are learning each other, and now it is coming easy for them. I love writing that playfulness, that banter that only a real couple can share. You're right that there is no fear anymore. Of course there will be caution with regards to others, but there is no fear between them. They know where they stand, and the footing is solid. Well put, my friend. I liked that it was Reid who spurred Jubal into action. He really is a good man, an he proved it in what his first reaction was upon learning the news of new settlers and higher prices. It's like you say, and his conversation about jealousy was all to make Jubal feel secure. It was a 'big boy' thing to do. I'm so pleased you see him they way I do. Yes, there could be a story there, with Billy and Reid, but it's hard to say what I will do in the future. I'm just concentrating on this one and making sure there is satisfaction when it ends. Lending Reid that money was a fine gesture by Jubal. They may have both had/have love for Lucas, but there is no pissing contest here. Lucas is with the man he should be with, and everyone knows it. Thanks, my friend, for such wonderful support of this chapter.

It's only a mortal sin if'n you be the author.

Lol. Cowboy Clap Back. I like it! We're getting to see the real Jubal, one who isn't trying to hide, one who isn't filled with fear. I don't think Reid minded at all. They already had a friendship developing, but after today I think it has become a more solid and comfortable one. I thought it telling in what you quoted, that Reid says he's usually right about other folks. Maybe not so much about himself? He was wrong about him and Lucas... is he wrong about how he's been seeing Billy? Hmmm. Jubal wouldn't let him off the hook, would he? Something tells me there will be more of that. He cares about Reid, and that began when Reid was there for him when Lucas was unconscious. Jubal deserves to have Lucas... and he deserves to have a good friend. Thank you, spyke. I appreciate you, and am glad I made your Monday. I will miss Bearpaw Mondays when they end.

I was trying to distract you all from Billy, but it didn't work. Sometimes you fellers and ladies are too clever by half. That land was just sitting there, and Jubal has all that money back and in the bank. It really is a good move, and I really believe living side by side was one of the ways gay men survived back then. We don't know if Reid will take the advice, but we know he was listening. Thanks, Doc, for the support and the heads up.

Lol. I think Lucas likes the fit of those pants. Gives him something to look at while he has to take it easy. I hope Jubal has learned not to be in a hurry when he's clothes shopping. Loved hearing you found the chapter delightful. It was time for a light and loving chapter. That quote shows the romance I live for... glad I am not alone, Doc. Cheers and thanks, my friend.

Thanks, centex. What I liked most was that Reid was the one pushing Jubal to by the land. He's come full circle in how he views him... and I see a great friendship being born. Yeah, they'll be neighbors, and there is safety in numbers. Happy to hear you liked that scene. I certainly enjoyed writing it. It seems more real when you can show your love in front of others. Reid obviously sees Billy as off limits, and it could just be that Jubal has him rethinking that. Something made it easier for him to back off Lucas... could feelings for Billy have helped ease some of that? So what I'm hearing is that you found the morning scene touching, and that's what I was hoping for, my friend. Thanks! See you Monday.

Glad to hear it, Kris! The future is looking good, isn't it? We're nearing the end now, and Jubal and Lucas are right where they should be. You could be tight about Jubal. I don't think Reid knows what to make of this new, confident, and fun-loving Jubal. Thanks, buddy.

Loved it! Great story, as one would expect from Mark.

We're getting close to the end... another chapter has posted.

Fair Warning “How did you get the blood cleaned from the mattress?” “How do you know blood was on it?” “Reid said. Told me I laid on this very one when you drove the buckboard into town hellbent for leather, and that the blood he saw about made his stomach empty. Said you were covered in it too and looked a sight. Don’t see no sign of any now.” Sighing, Jubal flipped the mattress, not really wanting to see the stain ever again. “I wanted it gone, but it wouldn’t

Hello, @dughlas

Hey, all!