Date: Sat, 21 Sep 2002 19:29:43 -0700 (PDT)
From: Waddie Greywolf <waddiebear@yahoo.com>
Subject: "Cabbage Patch Cowboy Part 5"

DISCLAIMER: WARNING!!  This is a work of homoerotic fictions written by an
adult for the purpose of entertainment for other adults.  If you are not
eighteen year of age or you have any problem with this type of literature
then this is a warning to read no further.  The author will not be held
responsible for any reason if you do.

(Codes: M/M M/b M/t Gay Incest Anal Oral True)

Comments/questions:  waddiebear@yahoo.com
Copyright 2002 Waddie Greywolf


=====================================================================
CABBAGE PATCH COWBOY PART 5


One morning, a couple of days after Christmas buck made a phone
call. Waddie overheard him talking to a man about a pony.  The man he was
talking to raised and trained roping ponies.  Buck asked if he and his
nephew might drive out that morning, meet him and take a look at his stock.
The man was Dan Justin.  Dan and his wife Jimmy Sue bought the ranch next
to Morgan's and moved in the same day Waddie was rushed to the hospital.

"Come on, Cowboy," Buck hollered at Waddie, "come take a ride with me out
to the Justin place.  I need to see a man about a horse. You can meet their
boy . . .Wha'd ju' say his name was?"

"George Gipson Gentry Justin."  Waddie replied

Waddie was all for it as long as he didn't have to stop by Morgan's place
right now.  He knew you couldn't see any of the buildings on the Justin
place from Morgan's except an old barn that was almost on the property line
at one time.  It was still in fair shape and had been used for storage as
late as a couple of years ago.

He and his Uncle Buck took Buck's pickup truck.  It wasn't a new truck but
it wasn't an old truck either. She was a mature lady, as Buck described
her.  She definitely had personality.  Buck name it Bertha May Come-a-long.
Waddie shortened it to Bert and then Buck started calling her Bertie
because he insisted `it' was a `she.'  Pa Claymore decided to call `her'
Bertie May Bendover because she's been rear ended and the step bumper near
the tail pipe was askew.  Poor thing, she got so paranoid she didn't know
what to answer to.

It had been really cold for Christmas but the two days following were
beautiful days and much warmer.  It was still cool enough to wear a light
jacket.  Waddie wore a pair of his new jeans, a nice western shirt, his
boots and was ready to go.  He saw his uncle with his enormous felt hat on
and marveled at how handsome his uncle looked in his western clothes.  He
wanted to look just like him.  `That's the way a man should look,' he
thought.  Buck looked at his buddy.

"Grab your hat, Son!  If we're gonna' be cowboys, we gotta' start looking
like cowboys."  Waddie liked that idea and ran to get his hat.  It was the
same color as his uncle's and he thought he looked really hot in it He did!
But when he and his uncle stood in front of the mirror they got a shock.

Buck looked at Waddie in the mirror and back at himself.  Waddie looked at
his uncle and back at himself.  Neither could believe what they were seeing
in the mirror.  They turned slowly to look at each other and looked back in
the mirror.  Neither wanted to say anything because they weren't sure what
the other was thinking.  They turned away from the mirror and walked half
dazed out the door.  They got downstairs and Ma and Pa Claymore were having
coffee in the living room.  When Buck and Waddie entered the room Buck's
parents were visibly shaken.

"Hoe-leey shit!" said Pa Claymore and he never cursed around his wife.
That was unusual.

"You guys wait here a minute while I grab my camera, I gotta' get a picture
of this."

"Come'mer Darlin'," Ma Claymore motioned to Waddie. She had a pair of small
scissors in her apron and cut several loose strings from his jeans and
shirt.  Pa Claymore returned with his camera and sat down for a minute.

"Mom, Dad, Waddie and I couldn't believe what we were looking at in the
mirror. Neither of us believed it.  You had the same reaction we did.
Waddie hasn't said a word.  What did you think when we looked in the mirror
upstairs, Cowboy?"

"Like I was looking at a wallet size photo of you, Uncle Buck."

Pa Claymore took them outdoors where the light was better and took several
shots of the two of them. In one shot Buck's holding Waddie in his arms
looking at him and Waddie's looking at Buck.  Everyone that saw that
picture asked for a copy.

Buck and Waddie took off for the twelve miles to the Justin ranch. They
were in great spirits.  Buck was in one of his playful moods and Waddie
knew he had to stay on his toes `cause you never knew when the bull shit
would start to fly.  He had to admit, though, he loved Buck more than ever
when he was in one of these moods.  He'd let his little boy come out and
play with his buddy.  They'd laugh and giggle at the damnedest
things. Waddie was learning fast how to sling a little himself.  His uncle
had to check himself `cause he wasn't really sure whether the kid was
serious or not. Today, Waddie couldn't be serious about anything.

"You know why cowboy hats are turned up on the sides, Honcho?"  Buck asked
him. Waddie knew that grin.

"No Sir, Uncle Buck, why?"

"So three or more can ride in a pickup."

Waddie thought that was funny. One of his uncle's better tries.  He laughed
and giggled almost all the way to the Justin place.  They pulled in, up and
around in behind the house.  Dan Justin, his wife and boy came out the back
door to greet them."

"How do, Mr. Justin, I'm Buck Claymore and this here good looking Cowboy's
my nephew, Waddie Lovejoy."

"Call me Dan, Buck and good to meet you young man."  Waddie shook
Mr. Justin's hand.

"Good to meet you, too, Mr. Justin, Mrs. Justin." but Waddie couldn't take
his eyes off their boy.  He knew he was his new buddy and his heart almost
jumped out of his body.  Waddie thought he had to be the best looking kid
he'd ever seen.  He walked slowly toward the boy and George Gipson Gentry
Justin stuck out his hand to shake Waddie's.  The three adults were
watching intently to see what would happen.

"Hi Waddie, I'm George."

"No you ain't!" Waddie said slowly but determined with all the love from
his heart his words could muster, "You're my best buddy, `Gip!'" and with
that Waddie took Gip in his arms, hugged him to him then spoke quietly with
conviction.

"You don't shake your best buddies hand , Gip, you give him a hug, a kiss
then tell him you love him."  Waddie kissed the boy on the cheek.

"I love you, Gip.  I'm so damn glad we finally got to meet each other."

 Gip didn't know what to do but was so taken with Waddie's openness and
strength of resolve he fell under Waddie's spell and melted in his arms.
He didn't know why he was compelled to return this boy's unusual greeting,
but he could sense nothing but love and gentleness of purpose emanating
from the young cowboy that held him.  Waddie held him tight enough to
surround him with his love but not so tight he felt consumed nor threatened
by such an expression.  Gip surprised himself when he hugged Waddie back,
kissed him on the cheek and heard his own words come freely from his heart.

"I love you, too, Waddie, and you can't know how damn glad I am you're
here."

Gip had never said those words to anyone and meant them more than he did at
that moment.  He knew he loved this cowboy and he knew his cowboy, his new
best buddy, Waddie, loved him.  There was no doubt in his mind.  `After
all,' he thought, `cowboys don't never tell lies.'

Waddie had to be the best looking young cowpoke Gip had ever seen.  Here he
was calling him buddy and calling him by the first part of his second name.
`Why the hell didn't I think of that?' Gip thought to himself.  `That's the
name I want to be called.  I'm not a `George,' I'm my best buddy's new best
buddy and by God if he wants to call me `Gip,' he can.  Hell, this kid
could call me `flapjack' if'n he wanted to.'  At that moment he knew he
never wanted to be called anything else but `Gip." It might take some
convincing with his parents but they were good and understanding with him.
If he truly felt strongly about something, they'd at least listen and
discuss it with him. They weren't unreasonable.

The three adults were dumbfounded as the two boys walked away, arms around
each other, deep in conversation. They seemed like two old friends that had
only been apart for ten minutes and picked up their conversation where they
left off.  A tear rolled down Dan Justin's cheek.

"Well, I'll . . be . . . damned!" said Dan Justin, "Did you see that,
Honey? What do you make of that?  I swear I ain't never seen anything like
that before in my life.  That was amazing!  You say Waddie's your nephew,
Buck?"

"Yes Sir, but we're not blood relation.  He's my best friend Morgan
Lovejoy's kid.  Morgan owns the ranch next door."  Buck motioned with his
head.

"That's Mr. Lovejoy's son?" Jimmy Sue asked Buck.

"Yes Ma'am."

"When you got out of the truck, we thought he was your kid.  What'd I say
to you, Dan?"

"She laughed and said, well if it ain't big Buck and little Buck.  I
thought he was your kid, too." Dan supported Jimmy Sue.

"We're getting that a lot lately.  My parents damn near had a fit when we
came down stairs both wearing our cowboy clothes.  My Pa ran and got his
camera and took several pictures."

"We've been so worried about George because he's been withdrawn and
depressed since we moved here.  He just moaps around all day not doing much
of anything. He use to follow me around like a puppy dog and help me.  Now
I can't get him to do much of anything.  This move took him away from all
his friends in the other town we're from and he doesn't have anyone to play
with out here.  I've never seen him welcome someone into his world like
that before.  He's usually guarded, reserved and standoffish until he knows
them a little better."

"He ain't never met Waddie before," Buck laughed, "he has that effect on
people.  If that kid decides you're gonna' like him, there's nothing you
can do about it."  Buck laughed, "The night I walked into that hospital
room and his eyes met mine, it was all over!  I fell in love with that kid
right there.  I knew I had no choice but to see that kid's life was set
right."

"Hell, Buck, looks to me like those two've known each other all their
lives.  Look at `em.  They can't talk to each other fast enough and can't
take their hands off each other." said Dan Justin seemingly thrilled that
the two boys were off and running in a new friendship.

"Dan, . . . Jimmy Sue, . . . I think we witnessed something very special
here today and to be honest that was the main reason for coming out here
was to get them two together.  Waddie needs a buddy his age to relate to
and it would appear your boy does too.  I don't mind bragging about Waddie
`cause he ain't my kid but your boy couldn't have no finer young man for a
buddy. I expect to have kids of my own one day but I doubt I'll love them
any more'n I do that boy.  Not because he's my best friend, my brother's
child, but because of who his is. There's an old man inside that five year
old body.  I also came out here to see the ponies but this needed to be
done."

"Well, come on in the house and have a cup of coffee, . . a beer or
whatever you want."

"Iced tea, Jimmy Sue?"  Buck asked her.

"No problem, Buck."

They sat down at the kitchen table and Buck started.

"Well, you may have to get use to a new name for your boy.  I can promise
you after today he won't answer to George no more."  They both looked
puzzled and Buck explained.  He told them the whole story of Waddie's near
death experience and the angel telling Waddie about the boy that was moving
into the ranch next door, what his name was, and Waddie would call him
`Gip.' His middle name is Gipson, right?"

"How ju' know that, Buck.  Nobody `round here knows his full name."

"I sure as hell do, it's George Gipson Gentry Justin."  Buck thought Jimmy
Sue was gonna' drop the sugar bowl and Dan choked on his iced tea.

"The angel told Waddie his name and we've known it now for over two
months. That boy talked to an angel and it was the same angel that saved my
life on Iwo Jima.  The angel that helped me, told me his name, and the
night I met Waddie he told me he talked to an angel said he was a friend of
mine.  He whispered the name of the angel that saved me.  How could a five
year old kid know that?  I hadn't told anybody that story since I got
back. I thought people would think I was crazy."  They both shook their
heads.

"But I'll tell you what . . . my life changed after that angel touched me
and the only word I could describe to you how I felt was, I was blessed.
He told me I couldn't die, I had a son to live for.  Sure `nuff, I no
sooner got home than Morgan asked me to be Waddie's God father.  Hell, he
even named Waddie after me.  His middle name's Claymore."

"You know what, Hon?' Jimmy Sue asked her husband, "I know George was your
dad's name but I sure like `Gip.'"  Dan looked at his wife kinda funny then
smiled.

"Yeah, so do I." he admitted, "How many cowboys you know named, George?  I
guess we could leave that up to him.  Hell, I'd rather be known as `Gip'
than just plain George.  I'll be honest with you, Honey, I sometimes regret
giving him that name.  Dad and I never got along very well and I gave him
dad's name to try to bridge the gap between us.  Never did, my old man went
to his grave hating me.  I'm beginning to believe a kid's name could
possibly shape his personality.  If that's true, I sure as hell don't want
him ending up a bitter, hateful old man like my dad.  I certainly wouldn't
have any problem with it.  Let's wait and see what he says.  See if he asks
us to start calling him that." Dan Justin told his wife.

"They start school this year together.  At least they'll have each other to
help them adjust." Jimmy Sue added.

"How long's Waddie staying with you, Buck?" Dan asked.

"Well, maybe you've heard Linda Sue Davenport and I are engaged.  We're
getting married the second weekend in June.  Morgan ask me a couple weeks
ago, before Christmas, if I'd mind keeping Waddie `til we got married.  I
told him it was more'n fine with me.  He could leave him longer if he
wanted.

My parents treat him better'n they treated me.  My dad lets him do things
he'd never let me do.  He spoils him rotten. That's not bad, because the
kid could do with a little spoiling from the life he's been living.  Ma and
Pa would gladly take care of him `til Linda Sue and I got back from our
honeymoon.

Then their's Waddie's grandparents, the Lovejoys that haven't gotten to see
too much of Waddie `cause Morgan's wife, Judy, hates them and won't let
Waddie see them.  They've seen more of Waddie since he's been with me that
they have in the last five years and they idolize the kid.  Morgan wouldn't
care if'n he stayed a week with them.

Linda Sue's fallen in love with him and she wants him to live with us.  I'd
have no problem with that whatsoever.  I'd raise that kid as my own if
Morgan would let me.  But Waddie has a say in this, too, and for all we've
come to mean to each other, he misses his dad.  He may choose to go back
and live with him. I ain't gonna' try to influence the boy one way or
another."  Buck was quiet for a minute, "Would you folks like me to tell
you another lie?" he asked Dan and Jimmy Sue with a big grin.  They all
three broke up at Buck's honesty.  "Has Morgan been over to welcome you
folks?"

"Yeah, he stopped by a couple of days after we moved in and told us his boy
was in the hospital.  He tried to be up but we could tell he was worried.
He didn't stay long; said he just wanted to be neighborly and welcome us.
It was nice of him.  We appreciated it. We haven't met his wife and other
two kids.  We seen `em from time to time when we drive by.  They never wave
or seem very friendly.  And of course, we've heard talk.  Is Waddie the
boy, she gave all his clothes away?"

"`Fraid so, Dan. I can't say anything.  Morgan and I are closer than any
brothers could be.  We think of ourselves as brothers.  My parents think of
Morgan as their other son and his parents think of me as their other son.
I love his parents, too.  Those folks have been damn good to me over the
years. I'd do anything in the world for them.  That's why I have no problem
with them seeing their grandson and Waddie loves them, too.

I don't know what's going on in Morgan's household and it ain't none of my
business.  All I know is that boy out there hasn't had it easy go of it.
You wouldn't believe the stories he told me.  I didn't know whether to
believe him or not.  Now, I would believe any damn thing that kid told me
as God's gospel truth.  He don't lie.  You'll never catch that kid in a
lie.  He's proved it over and over to me.  He's a damn good boy, aside from
what he's been through, and I've come to love him as if he were my own.
Well, you'll see for yourselves.  He'll charm the dickens out of you.  You
can't help but love the little guy!"

Buck went on to tell Dan and Jimmy Sue what happened Christmas and Jimmy
Sue was in tears.  She couldn't imagine what that poor little boy had been
through.

* * * * * * * * * * * *

Dan, Jimmy Sue, and Buck sat and talked for almost two hours and Dan
suggested he show Buck his stock.  The two men left the house and headed
toward the newer of two large barns on the property.

Dan Justin was quite a bit smaller than Buck but he was a lean sturdy built
man that had hard muscles from ranch work.  He was several years older than
Buck and Buck found him an attractive man.  Buck found himself drawn to Dan
because of their common interest in roping and rodeoing and of course Dan
had heard all the talk about Buck Claymore, war hero.  He was impressed
that Buck was a down to Earth person that he could readily relate to.  He
showed Buck his stock and pointed out several ponies he thought were
intelligent and going to make good roping ponies.

Waddie and Gip fell in behind the two men still talking up a storm.  Buck
turned around and looked at them, then smiled and winked at Dan.

"What'chu men talk'n about, Son?"  Buck asked Waddie.

"I'z just telling Gip about the rope you gave me for Christmas, Uncle Buck,
and how you gave me several lessons and Quinton taught me some, too.  Told
Gip, I've been practicing every day.  Gip says he wants to learn too." They
went back to their conversation.  Dan turned to Buck.

"First I've heard about it!  My boy interested in learning to rope?" Dan
shook his head in disbelief, "I've tried to get him interested and he won't
even try.  I figure if a kid don't want to do something don't force him.
Sure as hell hope Waddie gets him interested.  It'ud make me a very happy
man, I'll tell ya that!"

"I told ju' earlier about me feeling blessed by that angel, well, I think
Waddie was, too.  I think he's a special little boy that's going to
overcome the hurt he's been through and do great things. If he can't talk
your boy into getting interested in learning to rope, nobody can.  He won't
try to talk him into it.  His enthusiasm for anything he's interested in
infects everybody he comes in contact with.  Make you a small bet, Dan.
Five bucks says your boy asks you for a rope and some lessons `for the days
over."

"You're on, Buck!  It'll probably be the only bet I ever make I pray to God
I lose."  Dan put his hand on Buck's shoulder and they laughed together.

* * * * * * * * * * * * *

Jimmy Sue came out the back door of the house and hollered at Waddie and
Gip to come in and have some cookies and hot chocolate.  They came inside
and sat at the table and had hot chocolate and cookies and never stopped
talking the entire time they were there.

Jimmy Sue couldn't believe what she was hearing.  These two boys had great
things in common and obviously had a deep spiritual connection with each
other. She could feel it flowing back and forth between them.  It was
powerful and she was grateful for Buck having brought Waddie out with him.

Buck was right, she couldn't believe how fast Waddie charmed her.  He was
polite, considerate, thoughtful, and genuinely grateful for the least thing
she did for him. `What more could you want in a kid,' she thought to
herself?

She laughed because Waddie kept calling her boy, `Gip' and her boy `Gip'
made no effort to stop him.  In fact it looked to her like he beamed every
time his new friend called him that.  She was impressed by the strength of
character that Waddie projected. For a young kid to have suffered as much
as she heard about, his demeanor was one of gentility, goodness and hope.
She had no doubt these two were on their way to becoming close friends and
buddies.

"Waddie, if your Uncle Buck would let you, do you think you might like to
come out and stay a night with us to be with George?"  Waddie smiled at Gip
and winked.  Jimmy Sue knew exactly what that communicated: "She's sweet.
She means well.  We'll tell her later.  No sweat."

"I'd enjoy that Mrs. Justin.  Gi . . .uh, George and me are buddies and I'd
like to see him as much as I can.  Especially since we start school
together this fall.  Do you think he could come in and stay with us an
evening."

"Well, I don't see why not, Waddie, but let me ask his dad first, and by
the way, you can call him Gip if you want to.

"Thank's Mrs. Justin.  See Gip, trust your buddy, I told you they wouldn't
have no problem with it."  Mrs. Justin had to laugh with the two boys over
Waddie's statement. `He's probably right,' she thought

"I do trust you, Waddie.  Until you give me reason not to, I'll always
trust you."

"You think that's what you want to be called, Sweet heart? Gip?"

"Yes Ma'am, mom!  That's the name my best buddy gimme' and I like it a lot
better'n George. It just feels right and I keep wondering why I never
thought of it?  I feel like I've always been Gip, not George.  Like Gip's
been asleep and Waddie just woke him up.  Think Dad would have a problem
with it, mom?"

"Well, you know George was his dad's name but you know you can talk to your
dad about anything.  Tell him it's important to you, I don't think he'd
mine. You can tell him you have my vote."

"Gee, thanks mom!  I don't think he'll mind.  He and my granddad fought all
the time.  I made up my mind I won't never fight with my dad.  I saw what
it did to the both of `em and I never want to see that look on my dad's
face.  I love my old man and that would kill me.  I wouldn't want to live
no more."

"Gip, you never told me that before."

"You're right, mom, George never told you that.  Gip ain't afraid to tell
you." The boys laughed at Gip's play with names.

* * * * * * * * * * * * *

Dan and Buck came back in the house and Jimmy Sue fixed them a cup of
coffee. It was late afternoon and it was getting chilly outside.  She
offered Buck a couple of homemade cookie and he readily accepted.

"Buck's gonna' buy a couple of ponies from us, Hon.

"Great.  You gonna' train `em for him."

"I'm gonna' help him train `em.  Teach him how and he's gonna' help me with
a couple of projects."

"That's great.  Buck, why don't you ask Linda Sue to come for dinner some
evening and bring Waddie with you.  We'd love to have the three of you
out."

"I'm sure she'd love to, let me get back to ya'"

"And you young man!" Dan pointed a finger at his son, "Come'mer!" Dan
pulled Gip to his lap and smiled at him, "I like that name Waddie give you.
I like it a lot better'n George. Is that what you wanna' be called, Son?"

"Yes Sir, Dad.  I was just telling mom, it's like Gip was asleep in side of
me and Waddie woke him up."

"That's good enough for me, Son.  From now on you're `Gip.'  They all
cheered and Gip jumped down, ran to Waddie, hugged and kissed him.

"Thank you, buddy, for my new name.  Ever' time somebody calls me `Gip,'
I'll remember who gimme' that name.  I love you, Waddie."  Waddie hugged
him back and kissed him on the cheek.

"Love you, too, bother."  All three adults had to turn away and dab their
eyes at what they were witnessing.  The affection that flowed between the
two boys was undeniable.  Dan Justin fell in love with Waddie at that
moment.  Hell, Jimmy Sue was all ready smitten with him.

It was time for Buck and Waddie to go.  Jimmy Sue and Dan invited them to
stay for dinner but Buck hadn't planned on it and didn't want to impose.
They walked Waddie and Buck to the truck.  Dan got Buck aside.

"Can't thank you enough for bringing Waddie out with you. Personally, I
hope you and me and our families have a long and steady friendship.
Appreciate you coming out, Buck.  You and Waddie are always welcome, any
time."  Dan hugged Buck and Buck didn't hold back his affection.

"You ain't any more glad that we came out than we are.  You got a fine boy
there, Dan. One I know you're gonna' be proud of.  Somehow the two of them
together . . . well, I just shudder to think what they're gonna' be like in
several years."  both men laughed.

The boys hugged and kissed each other and told each other they loved one
another. Then Buck and Waddie jumped in the truck and headed back to town.
As they passed Morgan's place they saw Judy walking around outside with
Willie.  Waddie moved closer to Buck.  Buck put his big arm around Waddie
and pulled him closer.

"Seeing them make you feel bad, Hon?"  he asked Waddie at seeing Judy and
Willie.

"Not as much as it might have before today, Uncle Buck."

"Why's that, Sweet heart?"

"`Cause I got some good folks who love me now and with love in my heart I
can face anything, including them.  That's what I prayed for, Uncle
Buck. He heard me and answered my prayer.  I'm grateful to Him for that."
Buck almost had to pull the truck over, he thought he was going to lose it,
but he didn't.  He choked back the tears and held Waddie closer.

"You know who else we should thank?"

"Our angel, Mr. Urial, Uncle Buck?"

"Yeah Son. I don't remember whether I ever thanked him for saving my life
on Iwo Jima.  I haven't thanked him for bringing us together and several
other things I've probably forgotten about.  What do you say?"  Waddie
looked out his window and jumped next to Buck like he'd been shot then
started giggling.

"What chu' giggling about. I was serious."

"I know, Uncle Buck, and I wanna' thank him, too.  But you don't have to
worry none `bout him knowing."

"Why's that, buckaroo?"

"`Cause he's sitting right next to me but you can't see him.  He said to
tell you, he's proud of you and so's the Old Man.  They love the both of
us."

"Is that why you jumped a minute ago?"

"Yes Sir, Uncle Buck. Damn near pissed my pants."  Buck laughed.

"Well, if he can hear me.  Mr. Urial I thank you, Sir, for saving my life
but more than that I thank you from the bottom of heart for bringing me and
my buddy here, together. I love you, Sir!"

"He said he loves you, too.  Now, he's gone. He just disappeared.  That
scares the shit out of me when he does that!"  They both laughed together.
Buck had no doubt the angel Urial was riding shotgun.

* * * * * * * * * * * * * * *

The Justin family finished dinner and Gip was helping his mom clear the
table.  Dan got up and put on his sheep lined jacket to go feed and put the
ponies in the barn for the night.  He put on his big hat and Gip spoke to
him.

"Dad, can I help you with the ponies tonight?"

"Sure Son, glad to have your help.  Grab your jacket and hat."  Gip quickly
put on his jacket and hat and they headed out the door.  Dan turned to
Jimmy Sue, smiled and shook his head in disbelief.  Gip really helped his
Dad putting the stock away for the night.  It took them about half the time
it would ordinarily if Dan did it alone.  Gip helped him feed and put
things away.  They closed up and headed back to the house.  Dan put his arm
around his son.

"Thanks, Gip, for helping me tonight. I really appreciate it."

"Well, Waddie started me thinking. I don't want us to be like granddad and
you. I want to help you and let you know I love you.  After today I ain't
afraid to tell you I love you, Dad."

"Well, I love you, too, Son.  I guess I'm partly to blame for us drifting
apart and if you ain't afraid to tell me you love me, I sure as hell ain't
gonna' be afraid to tell you either."  Dan held his boy tighter and thanked
Waddie and Buck in his mind.

"By the way, Dad, you got an old rope around that you'd let me have to
practice roping with? Maybe give me a few lessons?"  Dan smiled to himself
and was never happier to have just lost five bucks.

"I think I got one around you can have.  Be happy to give you some lessons.
Tomorrow be too soon?"

"Sound's good to me, Dad."

"By the way, Gip, you and Waddie were right.  The name,`Gip,' just feel
right!"

"Thanks, Dad, I feel different.  Don't know how to explain it."

"I think your old man understands, Son."

"I had a feeling you would, Dad."

They got back to the house and Gip went in to clean up to go to bed.  He
was in the shower when Dan picked up the phone and called Buck's number.
Buck answered.

"Hello."

"Buck, this is Dan Justin."

"Hey Dan, just thinking about you."

"I owe you five bucks, pardner!"  all Dan could hear was laughter on the
other end of the phone.

"I'm damn glad you lost that bet, Dan."  Buck laughed again.

"No more'n I am, friend. It was worth every penny.  Thanks Buck, hug that
kid for me and tell him he's got a new friend."

"Will do, Dan.  Goodnight."

* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *

Linda Sue called and Buck got to talk to her all of five minutes before she
wanted to talk to Waddie about his day. They were on the phone thirty
minutes before Buck told him he wanted to at least say goodnight to his
fiancee.  Waddie said goodnight to his Aunt Linda and gave Buck the phone.

"He had a big day today, Hon."  Buck told Linda Sue.

"Buck, he never ceases to amaze me. You never cease to amaze me.  Since
he's been with you, he's opened up to the world. I'm a lucky woman to be
engaged to you. I can see what kind of father you're going to be and I
couldn't be marrying a better man."

"Ahww, just doing what needs to be done, Darlin.' And, you know you got two
men over here that worship you.  Never forget that, Hon!"

"Goodnight, Darling."

"Talk to you tomorrow, Sweet heart."

* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *

"Come on, Cowboy! Clean up time.  Then it's time for us buckaroos to bunk
it in for the night.  Ready?"

"I'm ready, Uncle Buck" Waddie started toward the shower, stopped and
turned around to face Buck. "Thanks, Uncle Buck, for taking me out to meet
the Justins and my buddy.  You did that for me and I appreciate it."  Buck
grabbed him up in his arms.

"How'd ju' know that?"

"I'm getting to know you and know how you are. Mr. Urial and God couldn't
have sent me a better buddy.  Besides, . . .  Mr. Urial told me in the
truck."  Then Waddie giggled.

"Well, here's where the bull shit stops, Son.  Yes, I did take you out
there to meet Gip.  I also wanted to buy a couple of ponies from his dad.
Even gave him a check for a deposit on a couple.  Today did something for
you, Waddie.  I ain't real sure what, yet, but it's got to be good. I just
feel it."

"I agree, Uncle Buck.  I'm not going to be so afraid after today.  Fear is
an awful thing to live with.  I don't wanna' do that no more."

"Can't blame you, Son.  Your Uncle Buck has lived with fear and he knows
what you're talking about.  I don't want you to live with it anymore
either"

The two cowboys crawled into their bunk and were ready for sleep.  Didn't
take either one any time before they were asleep.  Waddie dreamed of
holding Gip in his arms and comforting him.  Gip was afraid about a lot
more things than Waddie was.  He knew he could help Gip and love him.  He
never felt this way about anybody before.  His love for Buck was rock solid
and would never vary through the years but he felt different about Gip.  He
wanted to protect Gip and look after him. Gip needed Waddie and Waddie
wasn't beyond realizing that he needed Gip.  It was important to Waddie to
have Gip need him.

* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *

The days started to fly by.  The Justins became closer to Buck, Linda Sue
and Waddie.  Linda Sue and Jimmy Sue found they had a lot in common and
Linda Sue asked Jimmy Sue if she'd be a brides maid for her.  Jimmy Sue was
thrilled and readily accepted.  Buck asked Dan if he'd be a groomsman for
him and Dan, too, was pleased

Buck pulled no punches with Dan and told him how Waddie and he lived when
they were home.  That was his rule when anybody, males only of course, came
to visit.  He told him about the monthly poker games and Dan just howled.
He wanted Dan to know, in case he had any problem with Gip coming to visit
Waddie `cause the three of them would be running around in their birthday
suits.  Dan thought it was a great idea and would probably help Gip get
over some of his shyness.  He wanted to leave the decision up to Gip and
wanted Buck to ask Waddie to tell him about Buck's rule. Dan laughed and
told Buck if he ever need a fourth for poker, give him a call.  Buck fell
out laughing and told him he would.

Dan had several large projects he wanted to get done and with Buck and the
two boys they got a hell of a lot of things done around the ranch.  When
Buck went out there to work, he worked.  They'd work from sunup to sundown
with a break for lunch.  Most times Linda Sue would go out spend the day
with Jimmy Sue and help her in the kitchen.  They'd fix lunch and dinner
for the men and Linda Sue would help her clean up afterwards.

Waddie surprised Buck once more.  Buck thought he and Gip would be off
playing somewhere while they worked but they didn't.  They both helped.
The men would dirty up an area.  Waddie and Gip would come along and clean
up.  They stayed right along with Buck and Dan all day long.

Dan couldn't believe Waddie's positive influence on Gip and the change in
his son.  He told Buck he was gonna' steal Waddie away from him and Morgan.
He said Jimmy Sue would back him up.  They wouldn't stand a chance.  Buck
just roared with laughter.  Then he told Dan he wasn't real sure they
hadn't done that all ready the way Waddie talks about the two of them. Then
Dad laughed.

As the months went by, Waddie and Gip were practicing more and more on
their roping.  A kid learns faster than an adult and it didn't take them
four months before they were as good and sometimes better than either Dan
or Buck.

Quinton went out to work on projects with Dan and Buck several times and
was a big help.  He was better than all of them at roping.  Waddie and Gip
pestered the shit out of him to give them lessons every time he went out.
Quinton loved the attention. He couldn't say no to Waddie and thought Gip
was just as wonderful.  He thought the two of them together was a perfect
combination and predicted to Dan and Buck that in three years nobody in the
state was gonna' be able to beat them.

Gip shared with Waddie his attraction to Quinton and he'd had nasty dreams
about Quinton.  Waddie laughed and told him he wasn't alone except his were
probably nastier.  They broke up laughing slapping each other on the back.

Gip got to where he loved to visit Waddie and Buck. He couldn't wait to get
his clothes off.  At first he was a bit shy but after running around butt
naked with Waddie he suddenly realized he didn't care anymore.  It felt
natural.  After the third or fourth time he even stopped staring at Buck.
He was shy about looking at Buck but he wanted to.  Waddie encouraged him.
He told him Buck don't care.  He'll let you feel him if you want to.

"Does he let you feel him?"  Gip asked Waddie.

"He has and I have.  I don't do it much anymore. I'm so use to him I don't
pay him much attention. We sleep together every night and sometimes I wake
up and grab me big ole hand full and go back to sleep.  Sometimes I'll wake
up and he's holding on to me.  We don't think about it much.  It's just
something we do that makes us feel closer to each other.  If we feel the
need we can reach out and touch one another.  We're buddies and he has that
right and so do I. I love my dad but I ain't never loved nobody like I love
Buck . . . until you come along, Gip.  Now I love you as much as Buck only
different."

"How different, Waddie?"

"Well, Buck's more like a big brother and as my God father he's also my one
of my dads. You're like my brother to me, Gip.  A brother I ain't never
had.  I know you're thinking I have Willie.  Willie ain't my brother, Gip.
You're my brother!  Don't never doubt it!  Someday I'll be able to tell you
what I know but I can't right now. Just trust your big brother that
everything's gonna' be all right and when things get tough remember I love
you.  I'll remember that you love me and it will get us through."

"I love my old man, too, Waddie, like you love Buck.  More now since you
and I `ve been working with him and Buck.  I find myself wanting to help
him anyway I can to make us closer.  I know he's thrilled that you and I
are getting better at roping.  I'm glad you got me interested.  It helps me
pass the time by practicing and I think about you and Buck while I'm doing
it. I guess I feel the same way, Waddie.  Ain't never loved anybody the way
I love my big brother. I don't even haf' ta' say it, you can see it every
time I look at you, I love you, too."

The two boys hugged and kissed each other on the cheek. Gip looked puzzled
and wanted to ask Waddie something.

"I'm getting more use to seeing Buck naked and I don't sneak as many looks
at him as I use too.  Do you still sneak looks at him once in a while."

"Occasionally I look up at him and admire him, after all, he is a fine
looking man.  He'll catch me looking at him and wink at me. Hell, I don't
blush no more like I did at first.  Now I just look at him and tell him
what I'm thinking, `Goddamn, Uncle Buck, you're a fine looking man you know
that?' Then I get to laugh when I watch him blush.  Then I look at you and
I admire my buddy, too."  Gip just blushed.

"Awww, Waddie.  I sneak looks at you and admire you, too."

"I know you do, Sweet heart, I've seen ya', but Gip, you don't never have
to sneak looks at me. You're my buddy.  Buddies don't have to sneak a look.
Being my buddy gives you that right.  You wanna' look, I'm proud for you to
look at me as much and as long as you want."

"Would you ever let me touch you, Waddie?"  Gip asked quietly.

"Course I would.  Being my buddy gives you that right. I wouldn't never say
`no' to you."

"Why haven't you ever touched me?"

"Wait'n . . ."  was Waddie's reply.

"For me to ask or bring it up?"

"Yeah, little brother.  I talked to Buck about it and he suggested I wait
until you felt like it was your idea and you wanted to.  I've wanted to
touch you ever since the first day I held you in my arms but Buck was
right, he usually is.  It was something you needed to come to on your own.
Ain't nothing wrong with it between two buddies.  It's just another form of
love.  I didn't want to take the chance of scaring you and losing the love
you all ready have for me.  If you never wanted to feel me or me feel you,
I still wanted to be your brother, Gip.  I was a' hoping you might."

Gip started crying and Waddie took him in his arms to comfort him.  He
kissed Gip behind his ear and on his neck until he calmed down.

"Did I say something wrong, little brother?"  Waddie asked gently.

"No.  It was just tears of happiness and relief, Waddie.  I've wanted to
touch you so bad since that moment we first held each other but I was
afraid you didn't want to touch me. So when can I touch you, big brother?"

"Well, let's see."  Waddie mused to himself, "We be laying here in the all
together, . . .  I'm holding you in my arms up here on Buck's big bed, I'll
make you a deal."

"What's zat, Big Brother."

"Give your big Brother a real kiss on the mouth, relax, put your hand down
there and grab yourself a big ole handful.  But you gotta' gimme' a good
kiss at the same time."  Gip looked Waddie in the eye and saw only the look
of caring and love for his buddy.

"I'm ready, Big Brother."  Gip move up slightly in Waddie's bigger arms and
gently put his mouth to Waddie's.  He closed his eyes and felt himself
falling into Waddie's love.  He slowly moved his hand down his big
brother's side, over his stomach, and rubbed the surface of his cock.
Reached further to examine Waddie's tight little sack underneath.  Slowly,
as if Waddie's dick was a holy relic, he grasped it and felt it fullness as
the blood began to fill Waddie's dick.

The door opened to the room and in walks Buck.  Waddie and Gip didn't even
look up.  They knew it was Buck and he wouldn't care.  They were right but
it didn't stop the big man from grabbing a couple of tissues to wipe his
eyes and blow his nose.  He knew Waddie had wanted this closeness with his
buddy for three months and he was finally getting to experience it.  He was
happy for him.  He was happy for both of them.  He knew how important this
would be to them.

The boys broke their embrace and looked up at Buck and smiled.  They didn't
jump to cover themselves nor move apart.  Waddie motioned for Buck to sit
on the bed with them and he did.

"Sorry, Uncle Buck.  You caught us at a moment that was kinda important to
us and we didn't want to lose it."

"I could tell." said Buck.  "I'm sorry I interrupted you but I'm pleased
you didn't feel self-conscious and try to jump apart.  Tells me you trust
me enough to understand and that means a lot to this old cowboy.

"I knew you'd understand, Mr. Claymore."  said Gip, "course my big brother
held me tight to let me know it was all right, not to worry."

"What say, you men help me set up that bedroom `cross the way there.  Then
if'n you two men feel like you want to be private with each other, you can
go in there and that'll be off limits to anybody but me.  I won't disturb
you unless it's important. I'll knock first and wait for you to answer.
You men are growing up and you deserve some privacy."

Waddie and Gip helped Buck fix the bed and arranged the furniture in the
other bedroom and they made it quite comfortable.  Buck made it clear that
they could sleep in there together or still sleep with him. Whatever they
chose to do.

The two boys slept with Buck a lot.  Gip loved to sleep in between the two
men he had come to adore and finally got to where he had no qualms about
grabbing a handful of Buck in one hand and a handful of Waddie in his
other.  Many mornings Buck and Waddie would wake up, wink at each other as
Gip still slept holding on to both for dear life.

Waddie would roll over, take Gip in his arms and kiss him on the neck.  Gip
would let go of Buck and curl up in his buddy's arms and go back to sleep
still holding on to Waddie's dick like an airplane throttle.  Waddie would
lay there awake holding his little brother until he awoke in his arms.  Gip
would reach up and kiss Waddie gently on the mouth for good morning but he
wouldn't let go of Waddie's dick.

That was his right and he was exercising that right.  He liked to wake up
in Waddie's arms and have him pet him until the fog cleared from his brain.
He couldn't remember a time in his young life that he'd been more at ease,
comfortable, not afraid, and happy with more strength of purpose in his
life than ever before.  He was looking forward to school with his big
brother.  He wasn't afraid of it anymore.

Dan and Jimmy Sue Justin couldn't believe the change in their boy.  He was
coming out of his self imposed shell, was more open to them, and didn't
hesitate to tell them separately and together how much he loved them.  Buck
was right, as he usually was according to his number one fan, being nude
around a bunch of guys would make you more well met and communicate more
freely when you had clothes on.  You got over being shy with people and Gip
was growing every day.  So was Waddie.

Buck began to not worry so much about Waddie returning to Morgan's if he
chose to.  He had grown up so much in five months in every way.  He was
shooting up in height and Gip was right behind him.  Waddie would always be
bigger than Gip but Gip was not going to be a small man.  Jimmy Sue's dad
was a big man over six foot four.  Dan's dad and granddad were all taller,
bigger men that he was.  Dan took after his mother's side of the family and
she was small.  Dan was not a small man where it counted the most.  Waddie
and Gip were thrilled to discover at one of Buck's monthly poker games he
was slightly bigger than Quinton.  Suddenly, Dan became their hero and he
loved it.  He wasn't unaware of why either.  He subsequently became a
regular to the monthly poker game.

Gip told Waddie he'd never seen his dad nude before and was a little
nervous the first time his dad took his clothes off.  But after Dan held
his arms for Gip to come to him there never was any fear after that.  Dan
would even shower with his son once in a while and Gip loved it.

Waddie had explained to Gip about foreskins and taught Gip how to clean and
take care of himself.  Nobody had told him how to do it because Dan was
circumcised.  One evening in the shower Gip asked his dad why he hadn't
been circumcised.

"Because I always felt it was unnatural to cut away anything from a man
unless he was given a choice.  My dad had me circumcised when I was a baby.
I never had a choice.  I didn't want that for you.  I wanted you to make up
your mind whether you wanted to be or not.  Because I don't have the skin
covering over the head of my penis it rubs in my pants and underwear and
becomes desensitized.  I don't have the same feelings you do when you pull
the skin back.  You know how sensitive your's is.  It may not seem
important right now but later when you grow up and began to have sex with
someone it becomes very important. I just wanted more for you Gip that I
got in life.  I guess that's every dad's dream for his son."

Gip grabbed his old man in the shower, hugged him and kissed him.

"Thanks Dad.  I love you for that!  Hell, I love you for a lot of reasons
but that one's special."  Dan Justin was glad they were in the shower and
his son couldn't tell the shower from his tears. He had talked to Buck
about showering with Gip and Buck told him Waddie and he always showered
together.  He makes sure Waddie gets clean and Waddie scrubs his back.  Dan
thought it might bring him and Gip closer together.  He'd been right and he
thanked God he'd had that talk with Buck.  He and Gip had grown as close as
any father and son could be and Waddie was always included.  Jimmy Sue
couldn't believe the change in both her men.  She reaped the rewards of
both their affection and Gip had never been so thoughtful and helpful.

"Waddie taught me how to clean myself real good and take care of my dick.
He's not circumcised either.  He didn't know `til Buck taught him."  Gip
told his Dad.

"You've learned a lot from that boy.  He's a good boy.  I know you love
him, Son."

"I won't lie to you, Dad.  I love Waddie like I never loved anyone `cept'n'
you and mom."

"Truth be known, Son.  I think of him as your brother.  I love him that
much."

"Well, I know he loves you, Dad.  He thinks the world of you.  He says if
he decides to move back to Morgan's it will only be because he'll be closer
to me, you and mom.  He told me with your Dad next door I won't be so
afraid."

"I'd do anything in the world for that boy, Son."

"He knows it, Dad.  He feels the same about you."

That five months of running with Buck , Quinton, and Dan Justin must have
forced a growth spurt in both the boys.  The two boys attitudes and states
of mind were highly influenced by Buck and Dad Justin.  Dan had a firm
reality about what was right and wrong and wasn't shy about sharing it with
the boys.  He had come to accept Waddie as Gip's brother and what lecture
went for one, went for the other.  It only made the two boys fall more in
love with Dan and Waddie felt more included.  Dan treated Waddie like he
was Gip's brother.

Dan worked with Buck and taught him a lot about training roping ponies.
The two Buck bought from him were trained to be first rate ponies.  The
were gentle enough that Dan and Buck began to let Waddie and Gip start
learning to ride.  The ponies were around Gip and Waddie almost every day
and they spoiled them rotten.  They always had an apple or a carrot for
them.  They knew when the boys were aboard and rode them with care.

Morgen was seeing Waddie more and more.  He'd come to the Justin ranch and
be with everyone. He helped quite a bit on the construction projects.  It
seemed to do him good to get away from the wicked witch of the west and her
trained monkeys.  Buck and Linda Sue took Waddie and Gip to see the "Wizard
of Oz" and Waddie remarked to Buck that the wicked witches castle looked a
lot like Morgan's house.  Buck ruined the movie for several folks he
couldn't stop laughing at Waddie. Then Waddie dropped a bomb in Buck's lap.

"Goddam Buck! Look at that green monkey with that little hat. Looks just
like Willie in his band uniform."

Enough of the audience knew Waddie and the bad feeling between him and his
step relations. The whole audience fell out laughing.  Poor Buck had to get
up and go to the lobby.  Linda Sue quietly chastised Waddie but she
couldn't help but laugh when she did it.  Gip couldn't stop giggling at his
big brother's take on his step-brother.  He had to go to the lobby, too,
and then Linda Sue and Waddie heard the two of them bellowing with laughter
in the lobby. That only made the audience laugh more. For the sake of the
other folks they decided they'd have to see the "Wizard of Oz" another
night. When Waddie and Linda Sue got up to leave the audience applauded
Waddie hollering, "Right on, Waddie!"  "Way to go, Kid!"  "He does look
just like Willie."

Years later when they'd show the "Wizard of Oz" on TV the green flying
monkeys would come on the screen and Buck and Linda Sue would hold each
other laughing remembering that night and Waddie's remark.

It only took a couple of months of intensive training to teach the roping
ponies to do their best after a steer had been roped. Buck owned them and
was boarding them with Dan.  It was extra work for Dan and Gip but they
didn't mind.  Buck didn't want to impose so he asked Morgan if he could
keep them at his place and come out to take care of them.  He added it
might be a good way to get Waddie over the fear of coming back to Morgan's.
Morgan wasn't running any livestock at the time and told Buck he was
welcome to keep them there.  He'd be happy to take care of them when he was
home but Buck or Dan would have to take care of them while he was gone.
There was no way he could get Willie to help.

Waddie and Gip rode the ponies over to Morgan's and Buck went around in his
pickup with Dan. Waddie felt good riding the bigger of the two
ponies. Willie had never been on a horse in his life and Waddie came to
find out he had a terrible fear of horses.  A fact not lost on two very
fertile young minds.  Willie didn't know it but he was about to enter the
twilight zone.

Morgan came down to the barn and greeted them.  Judy nor Willie ventured
from the house.  Waddie wasn't as nervous as he thought he might be.  A
thought came to his mind as he was riding the pony over.  This is my dad's
home, I'm his real son.  Willie's no relation to him yet he's living his
house and by right of birth, my house.  Morgan's house is my house.  He
looked at his dad and spoke quietly.

"Don't know what I've been afraid of, Dad.  That ain't Judy's, Willie's nor
Dorothy's house.  By rights, it's my house!"  Morgan put his arm around
Waddie.

"You're right, Son. It is your house. They'll never inherit it, but you
will.  You decide to come home I have no problem with you setting them
straight."

Things went well with keeping the horses at Morgan's.  His runs had
stabilized to three days and two nights.  He returned the third day. He
didn't mind taking care of the horses when he was home.  Waddie and Buck
would go out once a week and muck out the stalls and put fresh hay down for
the ponies.

Waddie was beginning to put muscle on and growing bigger every day.  Buck
swore he was going to be the biggest kid in first grade and indeed he was.
Gip was second largest.  They'd ride out the afternoons that Morgan was
gone and feed and take care of the ponies.  Willie and his mother never
came out of the house to say a word to them.

Buck still hadn't taken a job.  He done some speaking around the state and
gotten pretty good money being a speaker.  He wouldn't talk about his part
in the battles.  He would tell how they went and how many men they lost.

Most folks thought his talks were informative and entertaining.  They felt
they got their monies worth.  Waddie went with him a couple of times and
was proud of his uncle when he heard him talk.  He wasn't the least nervous
and spoke in a commanding yet understandable voice that held people's
attention.

Buck began to take on a new dimension for Waddie.  He sat there in one of
Buck's speeches and tried to imagine Buck giving a speech to run for
sheriff of their county.

That night in the hotel room they'd gone to bed and Buck was holding Waddie
close to him.

"Uncle Buck, I'm so damn proud of you I could pop an button on my chest.
Ain't never heard nobody give a better talk that you did.  I need to ask
you something."

"What's `at?"

"J'ever think of running for sheriff of our county?"  Buck was unusually
quiet for a long while, but Waddie knew he was thinking.

"Never crossed my mind, Son.  What made ju' think a' that?"

"When I heard you speak and saw how you took command of the situation and
had those people, me included, eating out of your hand.  I looked at you
and wondered how you'd do in a speech running for sheriff of our county."
Again Buck lay there quiet, thinking.  He started rubbing Waddie's back.

"I know you, Waddie.  You don't come up with something like that without a
damn good reason.  Gonna' share it with your old uncle?"

"I saw the posters for the sheriff we have now and no one's running against
him.  You're well enough known in that county you could win, Uncle
Buck. You've got good friends all over the place that would work their
butts off to see you win.  I know I would. If not this time.  There's
another election after that."  Buck was quiet for another long while.

"Damn Son! You come up with the damnedest shit but somehow when you stop
and think about what you said, it begins to make sense.  Tell you what
. . . I'll think about it and ask some people what they think.  Especially
my wife to be.  How she'd feel about it.  I appreciate you thinking that
highly of me to suggest it.  I love you, Waddie."

"Oh hell, Uncle Buck, you know I love you.  Always will.  But, you know
what, Uncle Buck?"

"What, Sweet baby?"

"You're my God father, right?"

"Yeah, I am."

"What do you call your father?"

"You know what I call him. Dad or Pa.  What's this leading to?"

"I want you to think about something for me that's important to me. You
don't have to answer me tonight."

"Okay, what is it?"

"I'll keep calling you Uncle Buck but once a day, in private, I want to say
to you, `I love you, Dad.'"

Waddie lost it and started crying.  Buck understood, then, just how
important it was to the boy.  Buck held him close and lost it, too.  How
could this small boy have that effect on him.  He could rip Buck's heart
out with a glance if he wanted to but he wasn't like that.  Instead he
would say the damnedest most unexpected loving things to Buck anyone ever
had.  How could he deny this little person that simple request to say
nothing of having just made Buck feel like a God?  Buck barely pulled
himself together. He soothed Waddie and kissed him gently.

"You know the number of times a day I refer to you as, Son, it would only
seem right that you could call me Dad at least once a day.  I would be so
proud and honored for you to, Waddie, but let's limit it to that so's I
don't infringe on Morgan's right to be your dad.

Waddie leaned back, found Buck's mouth and kissed him gently.  Buck
returned it with the gentleness of a saint.

"Goodnight Dad, I love you."

"Goodnight, Son. Peaceful dreams, Sweet baby."

Buck didn't let Waddie go all night.  Waddie didn't want him to.  He would
have gotten closer if he could. Closer to the big man that loved, protected
him and kept him warm all night, his other dad.


End Part 5
9/20/02
Copyright 2002 Waddie Greywolf
Questions/Comments: waddiebear@yahoo.com