Headstall

Thank you so much, Bill. This one was very personal to write. Happy to hear you could relate. It's what I wish for with my poetry. Cheers!

I have heard/read that same thing about Native American parents, and I can't argue with you about the dangers of drawing attention to yourself as a people. It sounds like this community is well aware of their vulnerability. It's possible Preacher Brown stressed the wrong things in his practices and sermons... I don't know, but running to Jonas Collier was incredibly stupid. He showed no caution, and found out the hard way that Enniskillen was no better than anywhere else, and being righteous is wasted on the hateful, racist, bigots of the world. Loving your fellow man doesn't apply to them. The wee girl told her pa... not one of the white folk. She may have been taught the ways of right and wrong, but also not to keep things from her father. Just saying. I absolve her of her actions--consider her an innocent here--but, like you, not her father. I really don't think she has anything to feel guilty for no matter what happens, though I know saying that doesn't mean she wouldn't blame herself. She shouldn't be made to feel that way, though. The way I see it, the father thought he would have an ally in the other father, one who would help him ensure his son's safety by preventing any further contact, but he was wrong. I believe he knows that now, and is fearful for his son. "if she's allowed one" really hit me hard. I appreciate this kind of thoughtful input and perspective. It helps me 'see' a little better.

I'm right in the midst of something, and I'll do my replies when I can, but I just had to address this little part of your post, dearest friend. I don't say her age, but Willy James refers to her as the wee girl, so I think we can assume she is about five or six, so she likely had no idea that what she saw was something her father would consider bad. She probably thought it was amusing... like tee heeing. The preacher pa however, made a huge mistake. There are times to take a righteous path, and there are times to STFU!

Posting a day early because I have a busy day tomorrow... chapter eight....

A Troubled Soul August was about ready to burst soon as his eyes opened, right full of energy as he jumped from his bed. The breeze coming through the open window was pleasantly cool, and like at yesterday's wakening, the sun weren’t even close to rising. Naked, he began pouring water into the wide bowl he used every morn for cleaning hisself. Standing at his washstand, he was reminded his Pa had kept his word, leaving three double eagles on its edge. They were now safely in th

I didn't. I said 'fellow reprobates". It's up to you to decide if you are one of them.

I did.

Sunday salutations, fellow reprobates.

Greetings, all.

Look in a mirror and say something.

Happy Birthday, Mr. Baggins-Espinosa. 🎂

So far so good, but everyone is hiding.

Bought some new fish today. 4 Panda Corydoras and 9 Celestial Pearl Danios.

Yes, Bill, they exist, and they are very good at what they do. I don't trust like I used to.

It is so sad that there are people who would do that deliberately.

Oh, you know I love alliteration. Thank you, my dear friend. These scenes, while necessary to the story, do make me a little insecure before I post them. Your four Ss make me happy. Love these two boys, and I hope I did them justice for their first time sharing the physical part of love. Cheers... Gary.

To be honest, Bill, I still don't understand people like this. I mean, I understand narcissism, but it doesn't make sense to hold onto someone with such desperation if all you really care about is yourself. I['ve concluded it is about losing in the end, and that is sad. Thanks for reading and supporting this, buddy. Much appreciated. Cheers! Gary

Cold showers all around, Doc. Look at you with the out of the box speculation. Love it! Don't want to burst your bubble, but I think any plan the ranchers have came before the marriage. Besides, they won't stoop to Albert's level of bullying and threatening. There was some serious 'understanding' happening in this chapter, and it looks like it's full steam ahead. Maybe there a few matters to attend to, but cliffhanger? Mon dieu! I would never.... Thanks for the support, buddy. Cheers!

Over forty and rising here. Smoke alerts from wildfires too. Be safe, all.

Love this, my friend! They are already in sync after years of unrequited love, and neither one takes what they've found for granted. This wasn't a hookup in the dark woods, this was love in the bright light of day, with nothing hidden, and no guilt. That works for me. Thank you, Cane.

Hello, my friend. Yes, while the goal is clear, they have stuff to do before the journey begins. I find an innocence in these two, but courage too. Indeed they are very clear about what they want, and I find that a beautiful thing. They are in an exploration phase, but the commitment is there and it is strong. I like to think that is what makes this lovemaking scene work. So pleased you found it beautiful.