Another Chance - Book Two

By Zarek Dragon

 

To Colt's surprise, a rope came down to him. Colt reached out and grabbed it, then wrapped it around his hand and wrist as best he could. The root gave way and Colt felt himself drop a little. His shoulder felt like he had just dislodged it from the sudden snap. Colt tried grabbing hold of the rope with his other hand but couldn't. Then Colt felt a pull on the rope as he slowly started ascending the well. As he neared the top, two hands reached down and pulled him the rest of the way. Colt saw Jackson's face and smiled. "You saved me!" Colt exclaimed feeling relieved.

"I just got here and saw the mare pulling the rope. I looked down and saw you so I pulled you the rest of the way up. It was the mare who saved you," Jackson responded putting his arms around his son.

"Can I keep her, Dad? I really liked her before, but now I owe her," Colt begged.

"She is a beautiful mustang, and she did save your life," Jackson responded.

"So is that a yes?" Colt asked hopefully.

"Whatcha gonna name her?" Jackson asked.

"Other than that one mark that almost looks like a star, she reminds me of Zarek's horse. What do you think of Midnight Star?" Colt was ecstatic.

"That sounds like a wonderful name," Jackson stated as he put his arm around Colt. Colt winced as Jackson's arm touched his shoulder. "Are you alright?"

"I'm not sure, but I think I hurt my shoulder when the root broke. By the way, how did you know to come out here?"

"Let's head in so I can take you to the hospital. I also want to have someone fill that old well before someone else falls in. I didn't even know it was there," Jackson stated. Jackson helped Colt up onto the mare, then he grabbed the reins and walked back to the Rescue. As he walked, he told Colt how he was just out walking and happened upon the mare pulling the rope.

"The rope was attached to my saddle. How did she get it loose and lower it down?" Colt asked.

"I have no idea, tell me how you ended up in the well and we'll see if we can figure it out." Colt started relaying his story to Jackson clear up to hearing the boards break and falling. "Any chance that you may have taken the rope with you when you flew off?"

"It was tied on with a strap," Colt said as he looked at the strap where the rope was. "The strap broke. It's still tied but one of the ends that attaches to the saddle isn't attached anymore."

They got back to the Rescue and Jackson asked Josh to take care of the mare. He told him that he'd be back to sign papers, but Colt needed to go to the hospital. "What's up?" Josh asked.

"Tell you when we get back, but the mare saved his life and he wants to keep her."

Colt and Jackson got to the SUV and headed for the hospital. On the way, Jackson pushed a button on the radio and made a call to have that well filled with dirt. Colt warned that there are snakes in the bottom of it. As they pulled in, Jackson spotted Heather and Joe getting out of Heather's car. She opened the back door and Jim started getting out.

"What brings you to the hospital?" Jim asked while shielding his eyes from the bright sun.

"Colt fell in an old well and injured his shoulder. What I don't understand is, why do people put boards over old wells? Those boards get old and break then someone ends up falling in. If they dig a new well, why not put that dirt in the old one," Jackson sounded off a bit out of frustration.

"You have a valid point, Jackson. I'm guessing that you didn't know about the well," Heather stated.

"Hell no, I didn't know about the well. If I had, it would have already been filled. I'm having the contractor scope the entire property for wells, old and new. I want the old ones filled if they are no longer being used and I want to know that any new ones are not dangerous. This won't happen again," Jackson stated as they walked towards the entrance to the hospital. "So, what brings you back here? Couldn't stay away from the hospital food, or just like how the gown feels?"

Joe chuckled while Heather explained that Jim was nauseous and the doctor wanted to run another cat scan. They parted ways as Jackson took Colt to the ER and Heather and family went to the front desk.

After what seemed like hours, their family doctor sat with Heather and Jim in a small consulting room. Joe waited in the lobby. Dr. Bashir looked at Jim as he spoke, "Nothing shows up on the cat scan. What were you doing when you started feeling sick?"

"Playing World of Warcraft," Jim responded.

"My son Julian plays that. I hate to tell you this, but the computer monitor may have triggered this."

"Wait, you have a son named Julian Bashir?" Jim asked.

"What can I say, I'm a Star Trek fan. Since I have the same last name as the doctor on DS9, I thought it would be neat to have a son named after him," Dr. Bashir explained.

"Cool," Jim said. "The series ended before I was born, but I was given the entire set of Star Trek series for Christmas one year."

"Now you make me feel old. As I was saying, the monitor may have triggered this, or more specifically, the scenery from the game, especially if you were moving. You may hate me for this, but I want you to have a very boring next two days. Don't use a computer, laptop, tablet or smart phone until you see me the day after tomorrow," Dr. Bashir ordered.

"Two days? That's gonna be an eternity," Jim whined.

"It'll seem like that, but it'll give your brain a chance to fully heal," Dr. Bashir explained. "Use the time to rest."

"Can I at least read e-mails?" Jim tried.

"No, but you can read a book," the doctor said, chuckling.

"What about board games?" Jim asked.

"Actual board, but no video games of any sort. I don't even want you watching TV."

"You're killing me, Doctor. I am going to be so bored. Can I at least listen to the TV?" Jim almost begged.

"You have a favorite show coming on before you see me on Friday?" Dr. Bashir asked.

"Well I like Criminal Minds and CSI, but wouldn't say they are my favorite. Big Bang is on tomorrow night. I like that," Jim stated.

"I have no problem with you listening to any of it, but you might be tempted to look. I'll let you watch a half hour tomorrow, but only a half hour. That shouldn't hurt."

"Thank you, Doctor. I'll have him at your office at three on Friday, then?" Heather asked to confirm.

"That was the time originally scheduled for tomorrow, so yes," Doctor Bashir said. Then looking at Jim he added, "Take care of yourself. I heard some stories about your horse. I'd like to come out and see him."

"Not gonna restrict him for two days are you?" Jim asked.

"James Patrick, you apologize this minute," Heather couldn't believe her son.

"Mom's right, I shouldn't have said that," Jim said.

"I understand how you feel. Just remember, I'm not punishing you. Your brain needs this time to heal. You are one of my patients and I care about you," Dr. Bashir stated.

"I know, I know. I'm a teenage boy and you took away almost everything we enjoy doing. Next, you'll tell me that I can't spend time with Zac," Jim said.

"Is he the boy who spent the night with you in the hospital?"

"I'm guessing you heard?" Jim asked.

"I think that whole floor heard," Dr. Bashir said smiling. "I have no problem with it as long as your parents approve and you use protection."

"Thank you, Doctor and I'm sorry about the comment that I made," Jim said looking down.

"Chin up, it'll be over soon enough. Now go rest, and a cool cloth over your eyes wouldn't hurt."

Heather and Jim went out to the lobby to find Joe. He wasn't there, so Jim rushed to the ER. Heather followed. He spotted Jackson. "Joe down here by any chance?" Jim sounded a little scared.

"He's in the room with Colt. He said that he got bored waiting," Jackson told him.

A look of relief washed over Jim and Heather. When Joe wasn't where they left him, they started thinking that maybe Mrs. Walker kidnapped him. "How's Colt?" Jim asked.

"He's alright. They took x-rays and said he hadn't dislocated it, but the doctor could see where it tried. He said that the muscle was pulled and that Colt should take it easy for a few days to let it heal. How about you?" Jackson replied.

"I'm supposed to have a boring two days. No computer, TV or smart phone, I'm not even allowed to check my emails or texts," Jim stated.

"For a teenager, that's worse than a death sentence," Jackson kidded.

"I know, right?" Jim said. Jackson chuckled.

Heather, Joe and Jim headed for home. When they got there, Heather told Jim to give his phone to Joe. Jim went up to his room and flopped onto his bed. "Jim, you want to play Monopoly?" Joe came in asking.

"Not right now, I just want to be alone." Joe thought he heard a little sadness in Jim's voice.

"But I don't want you to be alone. I'm not going to do anything you can't do until you're allowed. We'll be bored together," Joe said hoping it would lift Jim's spirits.

"Then who will answer either of our phones if they ring?" Jim questioned.

"If it's important enough, they can come here when we don't answer them," Joe stated.

"I appreciate the gesture you made, but I don't want you to be bored for two days. I want you to have fun," Jim said.

"It's only two days, not even that really. You have forty-seven hours until your appointment with Dr. Bashir," Joe advised.

"It's only been an hour? Uggh, I thought two had passed already," Jim stated. Joe laughed at Jim's antics.

"Mom's fixing supper and said it would be a few hours. Why don't you take a nap until it's put on the table?" Joe suggested.

Jim closed his eyes and Joe sat on the bed gingerly rubbing his hand down Jim's arm. "That feels nice," Jim said as he drifted off to sleep. Once Jim was asleep, Joe laid his head down on the pillow and went to sleep as well.

Heather called the boys for supper but no one came. She walked upstairs and found them sleeping. Using her phone, she took a picture then woke them up. "Meatloaf's ready, are you hungry?" she asked.

"I'm starving. May have eaten lunch, but you know where that went," Jim said.

"How's your head feeling?" Heather asked.

"Headache's gone," Jim answered.

"That's a good sign. How about in general, how do you feel?"

"Aside from being hungry, I actually feel much better," Jim replied smiling.

"Good, I guess that nap did some good," Heather stated.

"Yeah, I didn't realize how tired I actually was. With not being able to use electronics, it wouldn't surprise me if I get lots of sleep before going back to see Dr. Bashir."

"Sleep really does help the body recuperate. I'm glad that you're not too upset," Heather said giving Jim a hug.

As the family sat down to eat, the doorbell rang. Joe ran to answer it. "Hey, Joe, how's Jim? He missed practice at the dojo Monday, and I haven't heard from him in a few days. I tried calling, but his phone went straight to voicemail," Dusty said. Cheyenne was standing beside him.

Joe invited them in and started explaining what happened. When Heather saw who was at the door, she invited them to eat with them. "So, Gold threw you?" Dusty asked.

"Not sure if threw is the right word. There was a snake so he reared up. When I went to pull out my pistol, I lost my grip and fell off. Next thing I knew, Zac was there. He said the snake was about to strike and he shot it," Jim stated.

"Yeah, Gold came and got Zac. Almost forced Zac to ride him," Joe added excitedly.

"Wait, you're telling me that Gold let someone else on his back?" Dusty asked to confirm.

"I vaguely remember riding back to the stables with Zac sitting behind me. Other than that, I have to trust what I was told," Jim said.

"OK, that explains why you missed practice Monday. Why is your phone going straight to voicemail?" Dusty asked.

"I'm not allowed to use electronic devices until I see the doctor on Friday. I started getting sick earlier and the doctor thinks the laptop monitor may have caused me to get nauseous from the concussion. So, Mom gave my phone to Joe and Joe decided that as long as I can't use them, he wouldn't use them and he turned our phones off," Jim explained.

"You're an alright bro, Joe," Dusty said and then added, "I don't know that I could go that long without my phone or computer."

"Jim has no choice and he's always been there for me ever since we met. It's a sacrifice I can do to support him," Joe stated.

Zac walked in as they were finishing eating. "I tried calling you all day, why was your phone going to voicemail?" he asked. Jim told him about getting sick and what the doctor said. He also mentioned seeing Colt and Jackson at the hospital.

"Don't know the whole story, but Colt got a new mare from the Rescue. I guess she's deaf right now and something spooked her. He ended up in a well," Zac stated.

"He'll be fine, though, he just pulled some muscles," Joe added to the conversation.

Dusty moved from between Jim and Cheyenne to the other side of her so Zac could sit beside Jim. They chatted for several hours until Dusty said that he needed to get Cheyenne home.

Jim did a lot of sleeping the next day so that he wouldn't even be tempted to look at his computer. Part of him wanted to disassemble it as it was almost mocking him sitting there, but he thought that would be too much hassle for just one more day. He did unplug the power console that everything was plugged into. The day went by quickly and Heather rewarded Jim by letting him watch The Big Bang on TV as was agreed with Doctor Bashir.

When it came time to see Dr. Bashir, Jim was feeling the best he's been since falling off Gold. The doctor ran a few tests including checking Jim's vision. After they were all completed, he looked at Jim, "I have some bad news."

"Oh?" Jim chirped.

"From what I can tell, everything looks good and you can return to a normal life. Take the weekend off though and you can return to the ranch on Monday," Dr. Bashir said smiling.

"Phew, you had me going for a second. I thought you were serious about it being bad news," Jim stated.

"Does that mean he can have his phone back?" Joe asked.

"Yes, he can but take things slow. So how was your show?" Dr. Bashir was being more polite than concerned with the show, after all, he watched it, also.

"It was the usual funny stuff. Sheldon is so anal he makes me laugh," Jim said.

"That he is. I'd like to set up an appointment in a couple of weeks just as a follow up. I suspect that everything will be totally back to normal, I just want to verify that," Dr. Bashir stated.

"Just remember, I'll be back in school, so as late in the afternoon as possible, please," Jim requested.

"I'll talk to the receptionist and see what I can do," Heather told him.

First thing that Jim and Joe did when they got home was turn on their laptops and read their e-mails. Joe was surprised with how many Buster had sent him in just a couple days. "Remember, the doctor said to take it slow," Heather advised.

"Just reading e-mails right now, Mom. Figure we'll play our game after supper," Jim responded.

"That should be fine. So, what are we having for supper?"

"Part of me wants steak, but tomorrow is Zac's birthday and Jackson will be cooking some kind of beef, I'm sure. So how about chicken?"

"Chicken sounds good to me, too," Joe assured.

"After his party, Zac and I are wanting to camp out by the lake. Is that alright?" Jim asked.

"I'd ask if I could join you, but you two probably want some alone time," Joe said almost sounding dejected.

"I do want to give Zac a special present. What if you come back out about an hour or two after everyone else leaves? You can spend the night with us," Jim offered.

"Is the special present what I think it is?" Heather asked. Jim started blushing. "I know you both have sex. I've heard you in your room many times. I think it's so sweet that it still makes you blush," she added smiling.

"It's just that our time together still feels so special. And no, the present probably isn't exactly what you think. I don't want to go into details about it, though."

"I hope your time with Zac always feel special. I know my time with your father was very special. He really loved us."

"Don't go into details, please," Jim begged.

"Let's just say that the night before he died, he was commenting about his perfect son and asked if I would ever consider trying to create another child," Heather said putting her arms around Jim. Jim got misty-eyed when Heather said that.

"I'm not perfect, but it's nice to know that I was in Dad's eyes," a single tear rolled down his face as Jim spoke.

"I wish I could have met him," Joe said with a tear running down his face as well.

"He would have loved you Joe," Jim stated holding his arms out. Joe moved in and Jim wrapped his arms around him.

"I know; we've had this conversation before. Maybe not this exact conversation, but close enough to know that he would have accepted me, too. They say that you can't miss something that you've never had, but I do miss him," Joe said crying against Jim.

"In a way, that's good. Means that Dad is living on through us," Jim said holding Joe tightly.

Zac walked in as they were separating. "What's up? What did the doctor say?" Zac asked concerned that maybe that was why they were all hugging.

"Doctor said that everything looks back to normal. Said I can start working again on Monday," Jim told him. When Zac sighed, Jim figured that he might have been worried since they were all hugging and told him that they were just talking about how much his dad loved his family.

"Wish my dad loved me, but it was his loss. I'll have a new dad and Vince loves me almost as much as he loves my mom. He's been teaching me military hand-to-hand combat, and when I'm not with you or working, we've had some fun together." Joe gave him a surprised look. "Not that kind of fun. As far as I know, he's as straight as can be and he really loves my mom. No, we've gone fishing and we're working on a race car."

"A race car?" Jim asked.

"Yeah, he has an old Dodge Charger that he's been rebuilding. It has a roll cage and the body is sheet metal. He thought about painting it orange, but said that was already done, so it's red. It has an American flag painted on top. He calls it Grant."

"Is he getting nervous about the wedding?" Heather asked.

"He doesn't seem to be. Whenever someone comes around and asks him, he says no. He says that he's more sure of this than when he joined the military. My mom on the other hand…" Zac started.

"Has she picked out her dress, yet?" Heather asked.

"Nope, says that she would like for you to go with her. Says that she would like for you to be her matron of honor, but she's too nervous over the whole thing to ask. She claims that she'll do it at my party."

Heather got up and headed out the door. Zac watched as she headed for his house. Heather walked in as if she owned the place. "Marilyn, when are we going to pick out your wedding dress?" she called out as she entered the door.

"I take that to mean you'll help me with it?" Marilyn asked.

"Of course I will. You've been like a sister since Jim and I moved in," Heather stated.

"I'm so glad. I'm such a nervous wreck," Marilyn responded.

"Why are you so nervous? You having doubts about getting married again?" Heather asked.

"Definitely not, I love Vinnie so much. I just want this to be a perfect wedding. It'll be his only wedding and my last one, or at least that's what we both hope, so I just want it so perfect."

"You know, the more you stress trying for perfection, the more apt you are to make mistakes. Just take a few deep breaths when you feel overwhelmed," as Heather said that, Marilyn took three deep breaths.

"That does feel better and I know I've made the right choice," Marilyn stated.

"About?" Heather asked.

"Well, I've been so nervous that I was going to wait until tomorrow. You said that I've treated you like a sister and I was hoping you would be my matron of honor," Marilyn blurted out in one breath.

"I would be honored. I'll pick you up when I get off work on Monday. We can go pick out our dresses then," Heather instructed Marilyn. "And if you want help planning any of this, I'm here for you."

"I know, and I wish I would have asked sooner. I'm such a control freak, but I think you would really be helpful."

"This is your wedding, so I want you to have control. I will just give you some ideas and see what you think," Heather said. The two ladies sat down and started discussing what Marilyn already had planned. Heather made a few suggestions and Marilyn's face lit up. It was like she found the missing piece of a puzzle.

It was around six when they decided to give the wedding planning a rest. Heather looked at her watch, "Oh my, I didn't realize that it was so late. Why don't you come over to my house and we can eat dinner? I hope the boys decided to fix it." Heather chuckled.

Marilyn agreed and they walked across the end of the cul-de-sac. As they walked into the house, the boys were just setting the table. Zac smiled at his mom. "Yes, I asked her. And she's helping me plan this wedding," Marilyn stated. Zac hugged her.

The night went by quickly, and in the morning, Jim woke up early. Zac was lying on his bed as he has many mornings. Jim decided to wake him up in a special way. He rolled Zac onto his back and started getting him hard. Jim had been sucking for a good four minutes when he heard Zac start to moan. "Mmmmm, that feels so good Helga, but be careful, I don't want to wake Jim up," Zac said in his sleep, or so Jim thought. He stopped sucking and Zac chuckled.

"How long have you been awake?" Jim asked.

"I woke up when you rolled me over," Zac said smiling. "So are you going to finish this?"

"Nope, get Helga to do it," Jim said mocking anger.

"Please finish this Helga, it's my birthday," Zac said kissing Jim on the cheek. Jim started laughing.

"Since it's your birthday, I guess I'll do it just this once," Jim said laughing and hoping he didn't wake his mom or Joe. Zac kind of chuckled.

After they were done, they took a shower together and then got dressed. Jim led Zac downstairs and made him sit at the table. "Can't I help with breakfast?" Zac asked.

"Nope, Helga and I have everything under control," Jim stated.

"Who's Helga?" Joe asked causing Zac to jump. Joe chuckled.

"Helga is an imaginary person," Zac explained. "I don't want to go into details of how she came to be about."

"Good, I probably don't want to know," Joe stated. Then he called out, "Jim, want some help?"

"You can help, but make sure the birthday boy just sits there. Tie him down if you have to," Jim said.

"Sounds kinky," Zac stated.

After everyone ate breakfast, Zac and Joe went to the ranch. Jim was kind of sad seeing Joe leave, but thought that he needed to get back out there. Jim decided to turn on the Saturday morning cartoons. Heather sat on the couch and had Jim lay there with his head on her lap. She started running her fingers through his hair and chatted. "You have already been through so much, haven't you?"

"What do you mean?" Jim asked.

"Well, you've been given a hand that most people couldn't handle. You lost your dad and your first dog. You went through a time when you thought you'd never see Gold again. You've met someone who means the world to you," she started.

"You mean the world to me, Mom. I've never felt as loved as I have with you and Dad until Zac came along. Yes, he means the world to me, also, but his love is so different than what I feel from you and Dad," Jim stated.

"And you were right with what you told Joe. Your dad lives on with you every day. I see him in the way you do things. You may not have realized it, but you watched your dad every day working the ranch when you were a baby. Your dad loved having you out there, and I sat holding you. You couldn't take your eyes off of him."

"He was my dad, even as a baby, I must have idolized him. You ever consider getting married again?" Jim asked.

"I know that I'll never have something as special as I did with your father, but if the right person would ask me, I might," Heather replied.

"Just know that if the right person does come along, you have my permission, not that you need it, but…" Jim started.

Heather interrupted him, "I know, right now I am happy. Memories of your father hug me every day and I still feel his presence when I'm in my bedroom at night."

"That's kinda spooky," Jim said with a chuckle.

"No, not at all, it's not like a ghost is there, but I feel his love embracing me. I sleep knowing that he's watching out for me from heaven."

"I think I understand what you're saying," Jim said. "Some days when I'm really feeling down, I feel like he's looking down at me and smiling. I hear a quiet voice saying that he's so proud of the man I am becoming."

"And I am sure he thinks that, too. Your dad would be so proud of you."

"But all that said, if you do meet someone who makes you happy, I know Dad would want you to consider marrying him and approve. The guy can never take Dad's place, but he can fill in for Dad since he can't physically be here."

"You are so mature for sixteen, I love you so much," Heather stated. She lowered her head and kissed Jim on his temple. Jim smiled and went back to watching his cartoons. Didn't take long before he fell back to sleep.

It was almost noon when Heather got up. She slipped a pillow under Jim's head hoping that he would sleep a little longer as she cooked lunch. Wasn't long after she started cooking that she heard him stirring in the living room. "Do I smell bacon?" Jim asked.

"Yes, I thought we'd have BLTs for lunch today. And now sounding like I work fast food, would you like fries with that?" Heather asked.

Smiling, Jim looked at her, "Yes please and thank you. I could never see you working fast food. Your cooking is too good."

"I'm glad you think so, but as much cooking as you, Zac and now Joe do, I sometimes wonder."

"You taught me what I know. We just enjoy cooking and want to help out since you're busy some nights. And now that you'll be helping Mom Two with her wedding, you'll be even busier."

"It doesn't upset you that I offered, does it?" Heather asked.

"I would have been surprised if you didn't, she's been such a good friend. Only reason I would be upset is because I'll see even less of you, but the wedding isn't that far away. I can sacrifice for her," Jim said smiling.

"And I hope it doesn't upset you, but I said Zac can stay here while they're on their honeymoon. I can always put him in with Joe," Heather teased.

"I think my bed is big enough to share. I'll chalk it up as another sacrifice I have to make," Jim teased back.

"I'm sure you think it's a sacrifice," Heather said smiling at her son while they ate.

Time for the party was getting close. Jim was decked out in his Levi's 517 boot cut jeans and a light blue plain t-shirt. Heather came downstairs wearing a nice denim skirt and a light blue blouse. "Our colors almost coordinate," Jim said.

They hopped into Heather's car and headed for the ranch. While at the ranch, Zac and Jackson were busy working in the office. "This all seems fairly easy," Zac stated.

"We'll see. Ryan and I are taking Colt for a last summer week vacation. You'll have to do everything by yourself next week," Jackson said surprising him.

"Will I be able to get a hold of you if problems do arise?" Zac asked. He thought he could handle it, but just as a precaution, he wanted to be ready in case.

"Nope, we will be unreachable, but Josh has agreed to help you if you have problems. And when I get back, I want to train Jim, too. He can be my third like you were when Josh was here," Jackson stated.

Zac looked at the time, "Umm, Jackson, shouldn't we be setting up for my party?"

"Party, today is your birthday? I totally was thinking that it's next week," Jackson said acting coy.

"You know that you're not going to get away with a surprise party, don't you?" Zac asked. "I know the barn hasn't been decorated, so I'm guessing the party is by the lake."

"Seriously, I was thinking that next Saturday is your birthday," Jackson stated.

"Then what does ZSBD on the calendar for today mean, Zac Schoen's Birthday?"

"Or, Zac should be done," Jackson stated, "with training. Tell you what, you go down to the lake and see that I have no party there. I seriously forgot that today was your birthday. I'll see you tomorrow, I'm sorry."

"You seriously forgot?" Zac felt a little hurt. He started heading for his truck and Jackson called him back.

"I am so sorry that I forgot about it. Would you like to come into the house and we can talk about it?" Jackson asked.

"What's to talk about?" Zac asked.

"You know that you are my favorite employee, we pulled off a surprise party for Joe and Jim. I know there's no way I could have pulled one for you, but I still planned a party but I just was thinking that it's next week for some reason."

"You're a busy man, I understand," Zac said.

"Well, how about if you stay for supper and you, Ryan, Colt and I can celebrate. Call Jim and see if he wants to join us," Jackson offered as he opened the door.

"Sure, that sounds like fun," Zac said still sounding a bit down-trodden.

As Zac walked into the house with his head down, everyone yelled surprise and Zac jumped then turned to Jackson and started crying, "You did remember?"

"Of course I did, and I managed to pull off yet another surprise party," Jackson said smiling. "And yes, ZSBD did stand for Zac Schoen's Birthday."

"Hey, there will be no crying, this is a party," Joe said looking at Zac.

"This is my party and I'll cry if I want to," Zac replied smiling.

"Mom and Jim haven't made it yet. Hope everything is alright," Joe commented with a concerned look on his face.

"I hope you're kidding," Zac stated as he started to worry.

It took less than a minute for Heather and Jim to walk in the door. "Sorry we're late, there was an accident on 120. Seems a tanker truck was spilling milk all over and they closed all but one lane in each direction," Heather stated.

Jim walked over and hugged Zac. He could see that Zac was crying. "Is everything alright? We weren't that late, were we?" Jim asked.

"No, but Jackson made me think that he had forgotten my birthday and then he surprised me," Zac told him.

"So he did pull it off. I wondered if he could," Jim said smiling. "Wish we could have been here on time so I could see your face."

"Yeah, he got me," Zac said as he hugged Jim again.

Everyone enjoyed the party and Jim stayed close to Zac the whole time. As it started to wind down and the first guests were about to leave, Jim called for everybody's attention. "I was going to do this when it was just Zac and I, but decided to give Zac his present in front of everyone," Jim started.

"You're going to do that here?" Joe asked.

"Told you that it wasn't what you thought it was," Jim said smiling. Then he turned to Zac, "Your mom and Vince are getting married in a couple of months. Matt and Gina are planning a wedding after they graduate. Wyoming doesn't allow same sex marriage yet, but according to the paper, they are considering it and will let us know in October."

"What are you saying?" Zac asked.

"Ever since I first saw you, I wanted to be with you. I know now even more that I want to spend the rest of my life with you," Jim stated. Kneeling down, Jim opened a small jewelry box with a simple masculine silver ring. It had a diamond embedded in it. "Even if Wyoming doesn't approve same sex marriage, Zac, will you spend your life with me?"

"That Saturday when we first met, I wanted to kiss you. I knew then and I know now that I want to spend my life with you," Zac answered.

After he got off his knee, Jim slipped the ring onto Zac's finger. Heather wasn't expecting this but wasn't surprised either. She was glad that Jim didn't give the present she initially thought in front of everyone. That caused her to smile thinking of it. Jim walked over to Joe, "What I wanted time alone for is done. If you just want to go out to the camp site with us, you can."

Joe wrapped his arms around Jim, "I know you're not married yet, but I also know that you two love each other so much. I'm happy for you."

"I probably should say that you are too young to be planning a wedding but I know how much my son means to you. I couldn't ask for a better future son-in-law," Marilyn told Jim.

"Mind you, we have no intention of getting married until we are both graduated, but I just thought today would be a good day to make kind of a promise to Zac. It's not like anything really will change, you know."

"That is true, and I'm glad the two of you found each other," Marilyn said as she hugged Jim.

Heather walked over, "You surprised me with your gift. Did I ever tell you how your father proposed to me? It was at my birthday party."

"I didn't know that. I guess I am a lot like him," Jim said smiling.

"Just know that when the time for your wedding does come, I will totally support you," Heather stated.

"I know, Mom. And I have the best mother ever," Jim wrapped his arms around his mother.

It was Monday morning and Jim was happy to be heading back to the ranch for the first time since his accident. Zac had left early because he wanted a head start on running the place for the first time. Jim and Joe ate breakfast and then climbed into Joe's jeep. As they pulled into the spot beside Zac's truck, they spotted Josh walking into the office.

"Not sure how I'm going to run this ranch all week and keep my hours at forty," Jim heard Zac telling Josh.

"Jackson and I discussed that. He wants me to cover tomorrow and Wednesday so you can have two days off. Jackson will be back on Sunday, so you can clock out when you hit your forty. He said that he would let you know," Josh stated. Zac had turned on the computer screen and there was a word file opened saying exactly what Josh had stated. Zac chuckled and pointed it out to Josh. He also chuckled, "Leave it to Jackson."

Jim and Joe walked into the office. "Anything specific that we need to concentrate on?" Jim asked.

"Have you hugged Gold yet? I'm sure he's still worrying about you. I've been telling him that you are alright and Joe told him yesterday that you'd be working today," Zac started. Obviously he cares about Gold a lot. Then he continued, "We have a man bringing his son at noon for riding lessons. He's thinking about signing the boy up for lessons on the weekends until we close for winter. Joe, think you can handle that?"

"Sure can. I'll wait until he gets here to pick out a horse," Joe stated.

"Aside from that, do what you normally do," Zac stated.

As Jim left the office, he noticed a 2014 Escalade sitting in the parking lot. A man dressed very professionally was heading toward the office from the barns. Jim heard a horse carrying on and thought it sounded like Gold. His walk turned into a sprint as he headed to check on Gold.

As he got close to Gold's stall, he saw a teenage boy trying to put a halter on the horse's head. Gold wanted no part of it. "What do you think you are doing?" Jim asked.

"I am trying to get my new horse ready for us to take home," the boy stated.

"YOUR new horse?" Jim shot back.

"Yes, my new horse. Dad is talking to the owner of the ranch right now to find out the cost," the boy told Jim.

"That horse isn't for sale," Jim said trying to control his temper.

"Any horse can be bought, and we have the money to pay whatever the owner wants. Wait and see, this is my new horse," the boy stated arrogantly.

"This horse isn't for sale and there isn't enough money to convince me to sell him. He is MY horse," Jim was almost shouting.

"My name is Brock Allen Radcliffe VIII and my father will give you up to ten million dollars for this horse," the teen stated.

"As I said, there isn't enough money on the planet to buy him. Besides that, he won't even let you put a halter on him, do you really think he'd let you ride him?"

"In time, yes I do. We have some of the best horse trainers in the country. He is just too wild right now for anyone to ride him."

"You arrogant son of a…" Jim started.

"Jim, calm down," Zac said interrupting him.

"I am sorry, Brock, but the owner of the ranch is on vacation and apparently, this horse is just boarding here," the well-dressed gentleman stated.

"This kid owns the horse. I told him that you'd pay him well for it. I want this horse," Brock stated.

"It's not happening," Jim seethed through his teeth.

"You own the horse?" the gentleman stated.

"Yes, and up until last week, he wouldn't let anyone ride him, except me. I've raised him since he was born and I will never sell him again," Jim stated with anger still in his voice.

"Very well, Brock, I am sorry but we cannot buy this horse," the gentleman told his son.

"But I want this horse, even his name sounds like he should be mine. Offer him more money," Brock was started.

"This horse means more than money to this young man. If I offered him a billion dollars, I doubt he would sell."

"Then buy this ranch," Brock ordered his father.

"On second thought," the man started. "Would you boys like a hand for the day? I will give you each a thousand dollars to take a spoiled brat off my hands for the day."

"What?" Zac, Jim and Brock said at the same time.

"I will give both of you a thousand dollars apiece to teach this spoiled brat how to even work a ranch. I do not care if you give him the dirtiest jobs to do." Mr. Radcliffe stated.

"Dad, what are you saying?" Brock stated.

"Take off your good clothes, I don't want them getting damaged. If they have something you can wear, great. If not, you can work all day in your underwear. Take them off."

"I did not wear any underwear today Dad, please," Brock switched from a demanding brat into a begging child.

"Then you will work naked for all I care. I am tired of your tantrums and whining. Working a ranch for the day will do you some good."

"Please don't do this, Dad," Brock begged as he dropped to his knees.

"Mr. Radcliffe, I'm not even sure it would be legal for us to let him work here, especially naked," Zac stated.

"Very well, but when we get home, you will put your nose in a corner and stand there until I say otherwise. Now get up before you ruin your pants," Mr. Radcliffe told his son. He looked at Jim, "I am proud of you for keeping your principles. Some things just cannot be bought. I did catch that you said that you would not sell him again."

Jim told Mr. Radcliffe about what happened and having to give up Gold. He also told how things worked out so that he was able to reunite with his horse.

"I see," was all Mr. Radcliffe said. "Would it offend you if I made a donation to whatever charity you want in your father's name?"

"No, that wouldn't offend me. Not going to use that to try and get my horse though, are you?" Jim asked kind of skeptical.

"No, I would not dream of separating you from this horse. But I am willing to use the funds that were planned for Brock to get a horse for whatever charity you would like. If Brock wants a horse, he can earn the money for himself."

"Dad?" Brock shouted.

"In that case, we have a rescue attached to this ranch. It runs on donations," Jim stated.

"I am so sorry for acting like I did," Brock stated to his father.

"While you do owe me an apology, I think that you owe this young man even more. If he forgives you, I will match whatever you earn to get you a horse, but it will not be this young man's horse."

Brock looked at Jim, "I think I would rather earn the whole thing myself." Jim's jaw dropped. He was ready to tell him that no apologizes were necessary and he could understand Brock wanting Gold, but this totally shocked him.

"Go get in the car, we will talk when we get home," Mr. Radcliffe said, slightly in shock himself. He turned to apologize to Jim but Brock pressed his lips to Jim's open mouth and even slipped in his tongue. Now Zac couldn't believe what had just happened.

After Brock went to the car, Mr. Radcliffe started apologizing for the whole thing, "I am so sorry. I have known that my son was gay ever since he was thirteen, but I never suspected him to just kiss someone like this. I hope that he did not offend you."

"No, not offended, just surprised especially after he refused to apologize," Jim stated still a little stunned. "If anyone is offended, it might be my boyfriend."

"I see," Mr. Radcliffe said.

Brock ran back into the barn, "I am sorry. I guess I was being a brat. I hope that I eventually get a horse that I love as much as you do yours. I am also sorry that I kissed you. When your mouth dropped, I just thought you looked so cute."

Jim was a little stunned, but not like he was before. "I was ready to tell you that no apology was necessary. I can see how you would want my horse. To me, there is nothing more valuable on the planet," Jim started. Gold chose that time to lay his head on Jim's shoulder.

"Yes, and I see that your horse loves you just as much," Brock said. Then he turned to his father, "When the owner returns, can I see about working here?"

"If you wish," Mr. Radcliffe stated.

"Actually, I do have the power to hire. I don't think we need anybody else at the moment, but the rescue is always looking for volunteers," Zac stated.

"Can I, Dad?" Brock asked as his face lit up.

"It is volunteer, that means you will not get paid," Mr. Radcliffe stated.

"You have been telling me all my life that money is not everything. When I went towards the car, it really clicked what you were saying. If I volunteer at the rescue until I graduate, would you consider getting me a horse for graduation? I also promise to grow up and quit acting so spoiled."

"I think you just took your first step towards growing up. Let's head over there to see what we can do. I do have a donation to give them," Mr. Radcliffe stated. Brock threw his arms around his dad.

 

I hope you enjoy the story and that it draws you in, wanting more. If you have any suggestions or concerns, don’t hesitate to email me.  Thoughts and suggestions are always welcomed and may or may not be implemented. Concerns will be considered and addressed as much as possible.

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