Headstall

This was fun, Arron. I was a little confused at first because everything about this world was new to me, but I caught on soon enough. It's so interesting they can become bipedal but keep much of their animal characteristics. "Need a hand?" "If you don't mind. My hooves don't work well on wood." Lol. That solidified it in my mind. I like this world... thanks to you and Yeoldebard for sharing. Your writing skills are quite apparent as this story flowed beautifully. Sorry it took me so long to get to this... I'm in renovation mode, but I will get to the next three chapters eventually. Cheers! Gary

This... this is all I can ask for as an author. I won't apologize for your discomfort the first time reading. It is an uncomfortable story, but it is a real story. That you appreciate the beauty of it now means more than I can express. Chase and Hank both lost everything, and I agree their relationship had to end for it to begin again. Both had demons to defeat, and they had to figure all that out on their own, without the other to prop them up. They'll be fine now. Their love never died, despite all attempts to kill it. That tells us what we need to know, and that is they belong together. Chase grew up over this long summer, and Hank finally understands his life so far. Between them they have one mother and one father, and that is something to be thankful for. I just want to give an honorable mention to Christine, a character as real as any other even though we never saw her alive. Thank you so much for this wonderful, encouraging, validating and honest comment. You're the best!

There is definitely love there. Finally, Chase has all the pieces filled in, and maybe Hank had a good view of the interaction. Chase knows he dodged a bullet that fateful night. Hank's interruption might have saved him from a serious assault. Should be an interesting conversation coming... and it would be about time. Cheers and thanks for all this wonderful support, Terry.

Thank you so much, Terry. I appreciate you understand just how complex this chapter was. I always know what I want to accomplish in a chapter, but weaving it all together and making it work is a real challenge. This one felt right when I was done. I agree about the conversation between Chase and Hank outside. I believe it showcased the team they used to be. I'm feeling emotional right now as I think about Hank's father, and Will's picture. Sometimes life really sucks. I'm glad Hank followed through on his promise to his dad, and I think Lilah was right that he was sharing something important with his son when he asked him to put that photo in his casket. Jeez... it was such a sad revelation... but the ending was beautiful. Lilah will be a great mom again.

Yes, it is, a good news, bad news kind of chapter. I wouldn't say that Chase's reaction is bad news, though. I understand why he was so hurt by that. Hank fucked up, and deserves Chase's anger. Chase might be stronger and more confident, but he is still prone to all the human emotions we all have. I'm pleased you were impressed by Hank reaching out. That was a big deal. His only mistake was not telling Chase about that conversation. In fairness, I can see why he didn't, but it was still wrong. he should have put himself in Chase's place, and thought about how he was feeling about Hank's lack of faith in him. I would say the important thing is Chase didn't leave. He still intends to be there for Hank while he interacts with his mother for the first time in years. More good news is that Hank is showing he is contrite. Never a dull moment, huh? Thanks, buddy.

Totally agree, but I think Chase asked the question, in part, because Hank still gets under his skin, and seeing his attitude about Dawson irked him. The old Chase wouldn't have done that, but now he calls out what he sees. He was not going to allow Hank to think of him as a liar anymore, because he has self respect. That's important. Chase isn't just hotter... he is more confident, and knows who he is. This summer was a huge one for him. And yeah, he does want Hank's trust too, but he no longer needs it. I also think Chase's attitude towards Hank is that he gave him plenty of chances, and he isn't going to let his hope loose again. Unless hank spells something out in black and white, Chase is moving on. I would say that is successful self-healing. Is Hank catching up to Chase? I would suggest he is. He is starting to be proactive, and that indicates, at the very least, some serious soul searching. Thanks, buddy. Cheers!

I have to go feed, and then feed Cookie, and then feed myself. Have fun, y'all!

Thanks, Terry. I appreciated all the thoughtful, wonderful comments and I see you left a review. I will check it out... just got home and finished up the satellite wiring for my family room. All that work to move a damn cable.

Hey, Albert. They are lovely.

Happy Saturday, all! I've been busy with responses and PMs, and I have to get moving. Have to go buy some stuff for my renovations and pick up my online grocery order... and I hate shopping. Last night I helped my son (along with my other son) put up a tower and the new StarLink system sold by Elon Musk. It went pretty well... they were the brawn and I was the brains. My son likes to game online, and he was always complaining my Bell internet wasn't good enough, so now he has his own. It's working perfectly for him.

Ah yes, my story within a story. I absolutely loved including this in Endings. Dawson touched me as a character, and I wanted to give him this after all the suffering and regret he dealt with. He's happy now! There is a little more in the next chapter with regards to a conversation, but this is pretty much their whole story. So happy you loved this too, my friend. Cheers!

Hey, Hal Lee! This was a fun first chapter to write. I'm pleased you found the characters interesting, and yes, the bath was an intriguing way to have Virgil and Wyatt interact. This was often how baths were done in the Old West. As far as the narration, you were always hearing Virgil's, the stranger's, thoughts. The story is told entirely from his point of view--in third person limited, which is how I tell most of my stories. You only know what the other characters are thinking by their dialogue or the actions, or Virgil's observations about each scene or situation. Sorry if you were confused, but I hope you will continue this story. I love writing westerns, and this one turned out rather well, Thanks very much for reading and sharing your thoughts with me. Cheers... Gary....

Some really good conversations in this chapter. I love how open Chase is when he talks to Stacey and his dad. You only do that when you are strong enough to see the world as it is. Nothing is being clouded with Chase, even if he might not know what is in Hank's mind, he has made his own decision to move forward. I guess what I'm trying to say is that he is no longer stuck. Reuniting with a good friend like Stacey is a very positive thing in my book. Chase can focus on many things now, and I think he can accept only friendship from Hank now. He's dropped all the baggage, so yeah, he can think of his ex in a positive way. It is an important point to reach... being in the driver's seat of your life. I love reading your thoughtful comments, buddy. They bring me right back into the story. Thank you so much. Cheers! G.

Yeah, I guess that's true. Dawson really spilled the beans about Brent, and shows how well he and Chase communicate. When I said the chapter was sad, I meant the fact these two friends would be parted. I was speaking for Chase. The fact is, this chapter is beautiful to me, in so many ways. As you say, Chase has finally been released from the chains of his grief. I am so proud of that first scene after he left the condo and felt the presence of his mother. His rational thinking was not colored in the least by depression, and that is a profound moment. I agree there is nothing but hope for an unfettered future for Chase now. He is ready... and what happens is no longer tied to Hank. He is his own man, strong enough to face all the truths and move forward. A lot of time has passed... the entire summer, and a lot of healing has taken place. Unfortunately, we can't say the same for Hank. We really don't know if he has even found any peace... because it sure didn't feel like he had at the condo. We shall see. So glad you found this a great chapter. I did too, and as I already said, I am beyond happy with how I got Chase to this point. Christine lives now the way she should... a healthy, vibrant memory who loved her family and wants only the best for them. She is no long the sickly, bedbound woman whose body failed her. She is Soaring now. One more thing... the way Chase supported Dawson was a beautiful thing to write.

Glad to hear it, buddy, because Dawson has been a godsend to Chase, and is my version of the best kind of friend. I have noticed that in dialogue things do get missed by readers sometimes. I suppose I do it myself, maybe because a lot of my dialogue can be rapidfire, and there is often a lot of it. Three cheers for Dawson!

I didn't realize that, but I get it. As far as being afraid to stick your foot in your mouth, you never need worry about that with me. I understand the turmoil this story caused in some readers. It keeps readers on edge, and I never minded anything anyone said. I did my best to be Switzerland while pointing out some stuff, but there were some really strong opinions of the circumstances and the characters. I'm glad you've chosen to reread it, and I hope you get enjoyment from it this time. I am actually honored by all the varied reactions to Endings. Cheers, my friend.

Thanks, Doc! Good validation, and I do need that at times. Does it measure up to a story like and a review? Just asking for a friend. Cook Outs and Cuddle Ups... that would make a great chapter title.

Thanks, Doc. As soon as the story entered my head, I knew where I wanted them to end up. Yes, Larkspur is a popular spot for my cowboys, but the town is growing fast, so now is the time for Virgil and Wyatt to find their piece of heaven on earth. Thanks very much for the support, my friend. So glad you liked it. Despite the shortness of the tale, I feel more and more like it measures up to my other westerns. Cheers! G. Oh! And we know Virgil has gaydar, so he'll be able to tell he has like minded friends in town. Hee Haw!

Exactly. They watched a young man who had done nothing but his job be abused by a loudmouth asshole. It was shameful, and further proof how rotten the town was. Still, Virgil and Wyatt gave them hope now that the gang of rustlers and thieves can be defeated. They owe them a lot. As I said before, Virgil is attentive. He sees everything, not the least of which was Wyatt's true nature. Thanks, doc. Hope you like how it all wraps up. Cheers! G.

Short stories can be tricky to get right, but I didn't really feel rushed. I was careful though, to get everything in I wanted to. It's great to hear it worked well for you, Doc. Wyatt's situation is kind of tragic, but I think if you asked him he wouldn't see it that way. He just accepts things as they are because he's really known no other way. Yet, he does want something better for himself, and I think Virgil is stirring those feelings up just a bit. He may be resigned to staying in Matador Hill for possibly years longer, but he's never had someone care about what happens to him before. Maybe it will spur him on. Thanks, Doc for reading and supporting this. It means a lot to me. Cheers!

Virgil does have great situational awareness, something needed when you are a stranger in town. he notices everything, understanding before he even went into the saloon that the town was an unhappy one. You are so right about accuracy. Often, the one to die was not the fastest draw, but the experienced gunslingers were generally accurate as well as fast.

Thanks, Dan, for reading this series and commenting. A review would be nice too... just saying. For me this is a quiet little series that hits very close to home. Many of us can relate to being alone and wondering what our future holds. The pandemic has changed things at a terrible time for me, but I don't believe in giving up. Sixty is not old... seventy is not old... eighty is not old... unless we stop looking ahead. Even if I get put in a home one day, I will be checking out the possibilities. So pleased to hear you found this beautiful... and yeah, I can be soothing. The Watcher Series is my guilty pleasure when I am feeling down. Thanks again... cheers... Gary....

Baskets of geraniums. This was a lovely story to read, Val. I believe, though David wasn't behind the purple door, he knew Greg had to go through it to get where he needed to be. It wasn't just the ramblings of a sick and dying man. Always happy to read about older men finding and accepting love. As well, I find the idea of ghosts comforting, and Josef was a welcomed one. Well told as always. Cheers!

But he has his integrity.