Colorado State Patrol - 2. Bull Riding

“Good morning, Mr. Skywalker. Could you please step out of the truck, sir?”

“Ahhh, sure officer. Is there something wrong? And how do you know my name?”

“The DUKE-1 license plate on the horse trailer gave away your identity. If you’d be so kind to walk with me, I’ll show you what’s wrong.”

“Sure thing, Officer… Espinosa is it? D. Espinosa?”

“Yes, sir. There! One of the tail lights on the trailer’s out. That can be dangerous to you and Ace. Lots of bad drivers here in Colorado.”

“Wow! You even know my horse is named Ace. I’m impressed. If you give me a minute I’ll fix the light right now. We always carry some spare parts in the truck.”

“Of course I know the name of your horse. It’s a gorgeous, smart animal. He’s as much a champion as you are. I’ll stick around and keep the lights on the cruiser flashing. It should make other motorists slow down. Wouldn’t want my favorite cowboy getting injured.”

“Favorite cowboy, eh?”

“Yup. Even wearing the DS Model 1 boots with the embossed snake and pig.”

“Well hell, you are a fan.”

“Definitely am. My nearsighted neighbor claims I look a little like you when I put on my Wranglers. Wish I could wave a magic wand and fill them out the way you do. I’m not in your league—no big bubble butt on me.”

“I don’t know about that, officer. You look mighty fine in your uniform. Some guys look so nasty when they try to dress like a cowboy, they end up with a shattered mirror when they glance at one. Hell, they end up with a shattered picture frame if they put their photograph in one.”

“Damn, a good-looking, talented cowboy with a sense of humor. No wonder you’re so popular.”

“Ah, that’s not always a good thing. If you ever come to one of the events, you’ll see how some guys get a bit out of hand around me. Hey! Maybe you’d like to come watch me and help me keep the crazy ones away?”

“I’ll be at the Boulder Rodeo this weekend; I’d be honored to act as your bodyguard. I’m sure you’ll win the calf roping trophy once again.”

“Thanks, that’s my best event. But I’m also shooting for a spot in the bull riding finals.”

“Nice. Bet you ride them real hard. By the way, my close friends call me Bull.”