Headstall

Snuggle up and stay warm, brother B.

Nope. Don't recognize him, but thanks.

Thanks, Terry. Before anything else I want to point out expectations men had for themselves back then was probably different that today's times. I guess what I'm saying is that Mitch is trying his best to be stoic and to look out for Will. He's trying to do what he thinks he is supposed to do... and I'm not saying he can't be vulnerable, but pride might have been a stronger thing for men then. To him, there is likely nobility in his pain. I would need a few long paragraphs to fully explain what I'm meaning, but I hope you get the drift of it... we are luckier in that regard today. I appreciate that you accept his reasons for his actions because that is what is important to me as a storyteller. Your words about my writing are very kind... they always are, and that is worth so much to me. I don't think I'm ever overly descriptive, but what I do describe, I want to have an impact. I want readers to hear of feel or smell or sense the surroundings, and if that is reminiscent of poetry, all the better. Right from the beginning, even with "Finding Refuge", I realized the narration had to match the dialogue in a western story, just for the reasons you state. It has to flow smooth when you are asking readers to accept a different cadence and rhythm that has unusual word choices and sayings. That takes a lot of work... a lot of paying attention to what you've written, but frankly it is something I enjoy. The finished product is what I care about, and there are no shortcuts to good writing. I agree this is a good chapter to see the correlation between dialogue and narrative, and the choices I made. Bigger rewards would be nice... but I do thrive on what is available... the likes and comments and reviews and recommendations. What I want most is for more people to read my stories and for them not to be thrown into a 'forgotten' pile. It's why rereads from readers are so impactful for me. Thanks for this, Terry. You words are very uplifting, and I treasure such comments as this one.

I got to admit rereading this had me sobbing. It's ridiculous, but that whole conversation tore my heart out. That kiss... that broke me. I feel so bad for Mitch... damn his principles... he deserves what Will is offering, but Mitch intends to be 'noble' till his end. Will has a tough road ahead, knowing Mitch is dying yet having his love for him fully awake... and spurned. Ugh. I need to take a walk. Thanks for your thoughts, my friend.

That's good to hear, and I agree it has an easy tempo to it. As you know, my style tends toward a slow reveal and usually through dialogue, and it shows here in this chapter. We learn still more about Mitch, and I think we can understand his drive as a lawman, often at the cost of his personal life. It must feel good to have bought such a beautiful piece of property at this time in his life... almost like he is thumbing his nose at his imminent fate. You're right, though... it is a loving gesture at the same time, looking forward to the boys' future. The conversation to come might change that mood, though. Thanks, buddy.

I'm glad you got that, Terry, that will, while already a good friend, is now becoming family. I'm sure he's been lonely for a long time. I love writing Boone and Coy... obviously... and I love how they talk about the previous tension and how they deal with it. They give each other some space and then they fix it by communicating, always letting each other off the hook. Its a truly special relationship. Mitch still needs time... and being on his own might reduce his own 'cloudy thinking'. I like Will... and I believe him when he says he won't give up without a fight. We'll see how Mitch handles that.

Now we hear from the other guy. It's a story of regrets that has probably played out millions of times when it comes to love. Everything Mitch says makes sense about not wanting to put Will through watching him die another time, nor wanting to put himself through that. I think that decision comes from love, not being so much set in his ways. In the end, though, Mitch is only depriving himself of some needed comfort for his last days. In that regard he is being stubborn. Boone and Coy have to watch this play out because they want Mitch to stick around and he is a grown man. That doesn't mean Coy won't meddle again, though. Thanks again, Terry.

Thanks, Terry! As sad as I am for Will in this, I am pleased with this chapter. We get to hear from someone who knows Mitch, just how complex he is... and the reasons why. Why is it we can be decent and kind to others, but can't be the same to ourselves? A man shows up who would support the fact he is dying, and is someone who Mitch could lean on, but Mitch runs away, not wanting to cause him any pain. I mean, I get it, I absolutely do, but there are times it is okay to be selfish, to maybe accept that hug and let out your fears to the person you've been closest to in your life. Yup. Very sad for both men. I loved imparting the background information through Will's dialogue... because of the impact it had. It was heartwrenching to know what Mitch is going through, especially hearing what a principled man he's been. Sure, he screwed up in the love department, but they were young. I don't hold that against him. Yeah, I don't think it will all be fixed 'tomorrow' but I think Coy wanted to give Will some hope to hang on to. He can be sneaky, but he has a huge heart. I'll stop now because I'm in one of those meandering moods. Thanks, my dear friend.

Terry is my promotions manager, and he does a great job of convincing readers to partake of my offerings.

He's quick on the draw.

Writing this sequel to "Sidewinder" has given me great joy and satisfaction. I learned a lot about myself and my expectations. Readers have embraced these two books and I appreciate that. I'm so glad you enjoyed this continued tale of Boone and Coy and the new tale of Mitch and Will. I like leaving them as a family who can count on one another no matter what they may have to face in the future. Happy trails to you too, my friend, and thank you for your support. I will make the obligatory ask for a review, but you do what is comfortable for you. Hope I see you again on one of my other stories. Cheers... Gary....

I can appreciate impatient men.

Hey, Dan! It's like having a chocolate bar in the fridge. You don't want it yet, but damn it! You know it's there. I'm glad you didn't expect Mitch. I don't think anyone did, and yeah, there were clues he might be made like them... or at least enlightened and aware of what the boys shared. Hope you enjoy the journey. Thanks for commenting, buddy.

Yes you are. You're not allowed to be greedy... no pressuring the poor, overworked author.

Is that your waist size?

We have an air quality warning here because of wildfires to the north.

Lol. Could be Coy, but we know Mitch has a soft spot for him. At any rate, there is a good chance it will backfire on him. The sheriff ain't used to being cornered.

I feel really bad for Will after hearing his story. The fact he is sure he still loves Mitch after all these years tells us a lot. I'm pleased you felt the emotion, Johnny. The do need to talk but I don't think Mitch is capable of being calm at the moment. He needs time, and he has a secret he wants to keep to himself. How does he do that without Will getting more suspicious than he is already? Are you sure you don't want the beaver stew? I have it on good authority beaver meat is delicious... lots of flavor and laced with fat. Oh well, maybe next time. Thanks, buddy. Glad you are enjoying the story.

Lol. Coy is like a dog with a bone, so it will be hard for him to do as Mitch asks. Maybe he'll behave... and he does have Boone to watch over him. Cheers, Albert.

Sometimes we just need to chill...

You could be right.

And... I taste good.

This one is mine...