Headstall

I did.

Yes, spikey, you're all that and a bag of chips.

So cute.

We're good. Had to go get her pills from the vet. Every summer she gets to scratching, and the pills fix it right away.

Greetings, all.

Love that you feel that way, buddy. It's true they've given hope and a lifeline to a desperate Willy James and Runyan, and now a terrified Regis and Darnell, and maybe that has to do with having to fight so hard for their own love... maybe they are destined to rope the moon for others too. Thanks for this, Cane. I hope you are enjoying the journey.

No worries, buddy. If you ever wonder about something in my stories, just keep bringing it to my attention. Input of any kind is appreciated.

Never a dull moment? Hey, Parker. Traveling was dangerous back then, and there were lots of easy targets for the criminal varmints. As far as a theft can be innocent, this one really was. Regis and Darnell probably wouldn't have lasted much longer, on exhausted horses and exhausted themselves. Now, they have a chance. Hope you are enjoying this, buddy. I was eager to introduce Runyan, and it seems he's made an impact. Cheers. Gary

It's pretty clear Regis and Darnell are out of their element, but they were desperate. I feel so sorry for them, having to run for their very lives because they love one another. They have a lot to learn, but they have found a good champion in Runyan. Who's to say where they will end up, but what matters is whether they will be safe. Thanks, my friend. I appreciate the support for this story very much. Cheers! Gary.

Hi, Sherye! Runyan picked the perfect time to make his appearance, didn't he? There really is strength in numbers... and yeah, we all have to hope for Willy James to arrive safely. Thank you, my friend. Hope all is well with you.

Thanks, buddy. Glad you liked it!

Exactly. I should have read farther. I think his parents raised a stellar individual.

I get that, and you said it just fine. I hope we all see Runyan as heroic in this first time we actually meet him.

I could use a little 'Folgers' in my cup. I glad you don't fault those boys for what they did. Of course it isn't right, but desperation mixed with love is a potent motivator. The situation could have been tragic, but t wasn't and August related more than he would have liked. If not for the grace of God and all that... this could have been him and Fletcher on the run. I agree. It must be somewhat comforting to see others like you, and know they understand. Hiding can be exhausting. Yeah, Runyan. It's a big deal to give away such a valuable possession as a compass. I think we can all see why Willy James loves this man. He is impressive, confidant and in control. That's hot. I do wonder if in seeing these inexperienced town boys, he doesn't see Willy James in them. He may feel like in some ways he is helping the man he loves. Too much? Maybe. I would assume the appearance of Runyan on the trail would mean Willy James must also have ridden out. Here's hoping. Thank you, my sweet friend.

Hi, Neal! Your comment about Lance confused me at first, but I think I've figured it out. Regis's horse is named Lace... which you might have misread as Lance. “You think I want to give up Lace? You know the alternative, right? It’ll be you what’s getting shot.” There is no comma in front of Lace, which there would be if Regis called his friend by that name. He's saying to Darnell he doesn't want to give up his horse (Lace) either, after Darnell says he doesn't want to give his mare up. Hope that clears it up, my friend. Glad to hear you loved the chapter and the writing of the confrontation scene, and especially the appearance of Runyan. I appreciate that.

Just a minor blip in the road, Doc. Calm and quiet is overrated. It's good to know Darnell and Regis have an option at the grandfather's, and as you say, there might be another one at Barnswallow if need be. At the least, it would be a safe haven for those boys. The uncle sounds like a monster, very much like Albert Cooley. Guys like that don't just expire and take themselves out of the picture. The whereabouts of Willy James is the big question. It's pretty clear Runyan was up ahead searching for him, and I'd be willing to bet he's watched the river side a few times, hoping to spot him. I can't imagine the turmoil he feels. Runyan would know a lot of rough men, but Willy James isn't one of them. Trailside hanger... that's a new one on me... I like it. Monday? I'll check my calendar, but I don't think so. Thanks, my friend.

Thank you so much, Albert.

Hey, Kris! August and Fletcher could both relate to the other couple's situation... scarily so. How could they not help these two scared, and exhausted men? Good hearted is right, but it is Runyan who is going the extra mile. I'm so pleased he impressed you. And yes, if they ever get there, Barnswallow will benefit from a good man like him. I agree, Willy James is a lucky man indeed. Thanks for the support, buddy.

If Runyan left Enniskillen, then we know Willy James did too, because he wouldn't have left if Willy James had stayed. I know Roland was right they should travel separate, but I'll bet Runyan is wishing they'd left together. The worry must be eating at him... even worse than it's eating at Fletcher and August. Kind of spooky how similar the uncle and Albert sound. The patriarchy was thriving back then. Regis and Darnell did they only thing they could do... they ran. Unfortunately, they weren't equipped for such a journey, but they are still alive. They do have someone to live for. Thanks, Doc! Appreciate the support.

Lol. At least no cliffs fell during this chapter. And yeah, that encounter on the trail seemed meant to be. No one else would have cared about Darnell and Regis like August, Fletcher, and Runyan did. And Runyan... he goes above and beyond to lend a hand to these two. Maybe it will keep his mind off the worry for Willy James. Regis and Darnell are town folk, and it is clear they are not experienced with traveling or firearms. Maybe they can shoot a rifle for game, but handguns are a different story, and some of the earlier guns were notorious for going off without pulling the trigger. I hope you were impressed with Runyan. He quietly took over the whole situation and got things moving. He was able to get the boys to open up, and that is what was needed to get everyone on their side. I think everyone is worried for Willy James. He is town folk too, and I wonder if that made Runyan want to help the boys even more. Thanks, buddy. Hope you are enjoying this tale. Cheers! Gary.

A very comprehensive comment, Albert. I'm really glad Runyan stood out once we finally met him. I'm pretty sure the way I see him has come across in this chapter, at least I hope so. I see someone who is proud and compassionate, but never to be messed with. He is one of those men who command respect without even trying. He is memorable. There are parallels here, especially between Regis's uncle and Albert, and the dangers both couples faced when dealing with such hard men. Even the way they treat animals is similar. And yes, my stories are about people as much as plot, and sometimes even more. Thanks, for this, my friend.

Awesome!

Hey, Patrick! Lol. You just never know what I might do. I was so tempted to name this story "Barnswallow" because I think it would have worked great, but "Roping the Moon" just wouldn't relinquish its grip on me. Will these guys ever see Darnell and Regis again? Wouldn't be surprised. Glad you found this heartwarming. And, we finally get to meet Runyan, and not just hear about him. What did y'all think of him so far? Thanks, buddy!

Welcome to the paddock @spencer Feel free to contribute to the insanity.

Chapter 12 is posted...