Headstall

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!

He's not the one used to going deep.

Jubal will be good at it, so much so that I doubt Lucas will ever have a complaint. And neither will Jubal. Reading is the best, because we get to see journeys and desires we can hope for and/or relate to, all while being entertained. A good story can be like a favorite blanket, always there for comfort.

It was a tough story to write too, my friend. It's another example of how we've had it tough for centuries, always needing to hide who we really are from certain folks, and even ourselves. It is what allows evil to flourish, and is a vicious cycle where we get looked upon as less than human. Makes my blood boil. I was watching a TV show yesterday, and a kid says to his father something like... so most homophobes are gay? The father answers... yes, that is probably right. I often thought the same thing. Why so much fear of us otherwise? Are they trying to prove something? Anyway... Jubal and Lucas have reached a new level of understanding because they didn't hold back, and that is a beautiful thing. . Screw the preacher... love finds a way despite that bigotry.

What happens on the farm, stays on the farm.

This is the small flake, misty kind of snow that wets everything buy looks so pretty.

I'm well, Tink. It's snowing heavily here, but it isn't that cold. Going for a walk in the woods in a few minutes. How are you?

Hello, all!

Pffft... as effective as you topping.

Has anyone else watched Shameless? I'm on season ten now.

Had a nice walk in the woods. Did battle with some vines that were trying to take two trees down along the edge of my property. I won. One of the trees is really bent, but it should straighten now.