Another Chance - Book One

By Zarek Dragon

 

The snow finally stopped and Jim, Zac and Joe were busy digging out all the vehicles. Not a one of them saw their moms come out. Suddenly a snowball hit Joe between his shoulder blades. He turned around quickly and another hit his chest. Jim and Zac saw this and started throwing snowballs at their moms.

When they started getting too cold, everyone headed for the house. Heather started preparing cups of hot chocolate. After they warmed up, the boys finished digging out the vehicles. Rest of the week was cold but no more snow. The boys still managed to put in just under forty hours at the ranch. Thanks to the boys digging out her car as well, Heather had no problems with getting to her job, either.

Joe was excited to start at his new school with Jim. He was excited to meet Jim's friends, too. He didn't think any of them would pick on him for his leg or being gay, but he trusted Jim to stop it if they did. After he showered, Joe put on the green shirt that Jim and Zac gave him, a pair of black 517 Levi's and his boots.

Jim wasn't dressed with anything special, just what he usually wears. "Hey Bro, you make breakfast this morning?"

"No, I thought you were," Joe replied.

"Well, let's see what we can whip up together then," Jim said as they walked down the stairs together.

As they entered the dining room, the juice and milk were already on the table, so was a plate of buttered toast. They walked in the kitchen and saw Heather at the kitchen. Joe looked at her. "See, we'll let you fix breakfast whenever you want," he said with a smile.

"Hope you like oatmeal. I figured you'd like something warm to eat on this cold morning."

"Does it have raisins in it?" Joe asked.

"No, but we usually add raisins to ours. If you like raisins in yours, I can add them next time while I'm making it," Heather said.

"I like raisins in my oatmeal, other than that, not really crazy about them," Joe said.

"Same here, Bro. I love grapes, and I love raisins in my oatmeal or oatmeal cookies, but aside from that, not crazy about raisins, either," Jim stated.

Zac came in early and sat at the table while they finished eating. Heather offered him a bowl and he took a little. He saw the raisins and grabbed a handful for his bowl. When they were done eating, the boys piled into the truck. Jim took Joe to the office so he could get his admission slips for his classes, then they headed to home room.

Dusty came up to Jim right away. "You didn't dump Zac over the holidays, did you?"

"Heavens, no." Jim said, "But Santa gave me a brother for Christmas."

"Don't they usually come in a smaller size?" Dusty asked with a chuckle.

"You must be Dusty." Joe said. "I can see why Jim says you're his best friend. I like you."

"Remind me some time and I'll tell you about Jim at the start of the school year," Dusty said with a wink.

"This is Joe, he's my foster brother but Mom's filing to make him my official brother."

"Nice to meet you, Joe. You going to join us for lunch?" Dusty made Joe feel like part of the group.

"I'm guessing," Joe responded.

Cheyenne walked over to the group. Since the attack, she had been moved to Dusty and Jim's home room. Joe could see a couple scars but they were only barely noticeable. Joe waited for Jim to introduce him, but it was Dusty who spoke first. "Hey Chey, this is Joe. He's Jim's new brother."

Cheyenne had a puzzled look on her face. "Don't they usually come a little smaller?" she said making a gesture like she was holding a baby. Dusty and Jim started laughing.

"You've definitely hung around your boyfriend too long. He said the same thing," Joe said.

The bell rang and everyone headed for their seats. Joe was assigned the seat behind Jim. A boy came in the door just as the second bell started to ring. His family had moved to Wyoming from Spain about two months ago. He walked over to Jim and spoke with a heavy Spanish accent. "Hey faggot, this your new boyfriend?"

"Leave them alone. Haven't you done enough damage already?" A boy sitting in back said. He had jet black hair that was slicked back. Joe turned around and saw the most beautiful blue eyes staring in his direction but only for a split second. His head whipped back towards Cheyenne as she let out a scream and started crying.

Dusty ran over to Cheyenne as quickly as he could. The teacher told everyone to take their seat. Dusty didn't move from Cheyenne as he tried to find out what was wrong. "Mr. Bear, either have a seat or you're going to the principal's office," Mr. Blair said.

"No offense, sir, but they moved Chey to this home room so that I could help take care of her in times like these," Dusty stated.

"Last warning, either get in your seat now, or you will be talking to Mr. Duncan," Mr. Blair was coming off as a dick.

Dusty didn't move. Mr. Blair approached him, "Mr. Bear, since you refuse to return to your desk, will you please escort Miss Haiwee to Mr. Duncan's office? We will discuss this there."

"As long as she's going with me, fine," Dusty said helping Cheyenne stand.

"Mr. Blair, I think I should come along, too. I may be able to shed some light," the boy in back offered.

"Fine, Mr. Jones, you may join us. Mr. Bolt, you are in charge until the bell rings for you to go to your first class."

The boy standing next to Jim looked at the group leaving. "You say anything, Cornhole, you will regret it."

Cornhole, or rather his real name is Cornelius Jones, just glared at Alejandro. He followed Mr. Blair to Mr. Duncan's office.

Mr. Blair told everyone to sit in the conference room and he'd be back. Cheyenne looked at Cornelius, "You were there, weren't you? I remember your voice saying those exact same words."

Cornelius looked down. "I was, I've been wanting to say something for so long," he put his face in his hands and started to cry.

Mr. Duncan walked in. "Dusty, Mr. Blair and I talked, he totally understands why you were at Cheyenne's chair and he agrees that no punishment is necessary."

"Thank you, Mr. Blair, I'm sorry if I upset you, but Cheyenne means the world to me," Dusty stated.

"No apology necessary. I was more upset that you wouldn't let me help her. It is part of my job," Mr. Blair said.

"Well thank you for caring," Dusty said with a grin.

"You prefer Buster, don't you?" Mr. Duncan asked looking at Cornelius.

"Yes, sir, I do," Cornelius said still crying.

"Well, Buster, would you like to tell us what happened now, or would you rather wait and tell the police?" Mr. Duncan said in a friendly but stern voice.

"If it's all the same, can I wait for the police? That way, I only have to tell it once," Cornelius said.

"Very well, I can understand that," Mr. Duncan said then went to his office.

The detective was there within ten minutes. Having spoken with him a few times, Dusty was the first of the students to greet him. Cornelius looked at Cheyenne, "I'm so sorry."

"I'm starting to remember bits and pieces. You were there, but all you did was try to get them to stop. It's not your fault," Cheyenne told him placing her hand on his.

"But I should have come forward sooner. Alejandro threatened to castrate me if I said anything," Cornelius said. Dusty grimaced as his hands instinctively went to cover his crotch.

Mr. Duncan sent security to bring Alejandro to his office. Dusty looked at Cornelius. "Yes, you should have come forward sooner, but you're here now. Can't change what has already happened."

"I remember hearing Alejandro's heavy Spanish accent," Cheyenne was about to cry.

"I can't promise that you won't be punished, but if you tell us everything, I will talk to the DA," the detective said.

"I'll tell you everything, I'll accept any punishment that I'm given, just make sure that Alejandro doesn't have a chance to hurt anyone else. I don't care what he does to me, but he's a monster and needs to be stopped," Cornelius sobbed.

He started telling about the attack and gave great detail. There were Alejandro, Jerome and another boy as well as himself. While one was attacking Cheyenne, the other two were forcing Cornelius to watch. Cheyenne listened to the story and Dusty could see that her mind was taking it all in. "I remember most of it, now," Cheyenne said. "Buster was as much a victim as I was." Cornelius started to cry.

"Do you know anything about a fire at the Another Chance Ranch?" the detective asked.

"No, but just before Christmas, Alejandro did say he was going to that ranch to teach the owner a lesson. He didn't burn it down, did he?"

"Fortunately, just the office. I don't think any charges will be filed against you, but you may be called to testify in court," The detective said.

"Anything I can do to help. I just wish I would have come clean sooner," Cornelius stated.

"If I were you, I'm not sure that I would have come forward until now either," Dusty said. Mr. Duncan and the detective left the conference room. Through the open door, Dusty could see the detective cuffing Alejandro. Alejandro tried to resist but between the detective and the security officers Alejandro didn't stand a chance. Alejandro started screaming, "Cornhole, you're dead when I get out." Mr. Duncan then sent the officers to bring the other boy that Cornelius had mentioned.

"Thank you for not hating me," Cornelius said as he continued crying.

"Hate you for what? Like Chey said, you were as much a victim as she was," Dusty assured Cornelius.

Mr. Duncan came back into the conference room. "I won't force any of you to go to your classes after what just happened. Take the day off and Buster, thank you for helping. Your dad would be proud of you."

"My dad is proud of me," Cornelius said with the first hint of a smile.

"Well, we found out a few things. The detective is going to try and pull a few strings. I can't promise you anything, but if all goes well, your dad might be out to see you graduate," Mr. Duncan stated. Cornelius dropped to his knees and grabbed Mr. Duncan and sobbed.

Dusty and Cheyenne were about to walk out the door when Mr. Duncan gave the news. "Buster, you want a ride home?" Dusty offered.

"Yes, please. I know my house is within walking distance, but I don't know that I can make it right now. Thank you so much."

"Not a problem. And thank you Mr. Duncan," Dusty said. Cheyenne smiled at Dusty. It had been a while since she felt so relieved.

Jim was worried. He hadn't seen Dusty or Cheyenne since they left home room. At lunch, he texted Dusty to see what had happened. Dusty returned his text but all he said was "Everything is alright, I'll tell you about it later. Too much to text."

The fifth period Health teacher is Mr. Blair. Jim walked up to him. "Did Dusty get in trouble?"

"I can't really tell you anything, but no, Dusty is fine," Mr. Blair said.

"I hear that he and Cheyenne went home after you took them to Mr. Duncan's office."

"Like I said, I can't really tell you anything. We chatted with Mr. Duncan for a few minutes but then I left for my class. From what I've heard, Mr. Jones shed a lot of light just like he promised. That's all I know."

Jim went to his seat. Joe gave him a funny look. Rest of the day, Jim was concerned for Dusty and Cheyenne, but knew there was nothing he could do until after school. The classes seemed to go by slowly.

After they were let out, Jim and Joe headed for Zac's truck. Zac came running towards them. "Did you hear?" Zac shouted.

"Hear what?" Jim asked.

"That kid, Cornelius, he told the whole story about Cheyenne's attack. Alejandro, that boy from Spain headed it up. Apparently Alejandro is the one that started the fire at the ranch. Jackson called me a few minutes ago and they told him. I guess the insurance company is going after his family for all the damages. Anything they get above what they paid out will go to Jackson."

"That's good to hear," Jim said. Just then, his phone rang, it was Dusty. "Yeah, I just heard. You want to meet somewhere? I think we should celebrate, that is if Cheyenne wants to." There was silence as Jim listened to his phone. "Joe, Cheyenne wants you to pick the place to eat. What's your favorite food?"

"I like seafood and pizza," Joe chirped feeling good about being included by Jim's friends.

"You hear that? Good, we'll meet you there," Jim said and stuck his phone in his pocket. "Dusty is calling and ordering a shrimp pizza at the Hungry Bear."

The boys had arrived at the Hungry Bear and were getting out of the truck as Dusty pulled in. When Cheyenne got out, Joe looked at her. "How are you doing? You seem more relaxed than you did this morning."

"Thank you. Knowing that my attackers have been caught, I do feel more relaxed," Cheyenne stated with a smile. Dusty got out of his car walked over and kissed her.

They went in and Dusty gave his name. They were seated and the pizza was brought over along with a pitcher of root beer. The waitress poured everyone a glass and sat the pitcher on the table beside the pizza. "Hope everyone likes root beer. If not, we can get another pitcher of something."

"How much is our share of this?" Jim asked.

"Nothing, this is my treat because I feel as much relieved as Chey does," Dusty said lifting her hand which was still in his. Dusty kissed her fingers.

"Well I just met the two of you today, but I'm happy for you, also," Joe said picking up his glass. Everyone clanked their glass together and took a drink. Dusty was smart and asked that the pizza be cut into ten slices. He knew with the three boys, Chey, and himself that would give each of them two slices. Dusty grabbed the first slice of pizza and handed it to Cheyenne, then grabbed one for himself. Everyone else had waited for Dusty to grab his slice, then they each grabbed one.

When the pizza was gone, Dusty asked if anyone wanted anything else. "Better not, not sure what Mom's fixing for supper," Jim said.

"I know what she's fixing" Joe threw in.

"What?" Jim looked at him suspiciously.

"Food," Joe said and cracked up. Jim just shook his head and smiled at Joe.

"You sure you're not my real brother? You definitely belong in my family," Jim told Joe. Joe smiled at Jim this time.

Dusty paid the bill and they started to head out. Some guy that they've never seen before bumped into Dusty as they approached the door. "Watch it, faggot," The man yelled.

"Fuck you, you bumped into me. I was standing here with my girlfriend waiting for you to get through the door. Besides, I don't like you using the term faggot in such a derogatory manner, either." Dusty raised his voice just a little. Jim was shocked, but happy also, by Dusty getting upset. He's never seen Dusty get angry except to defend Cheyenne or his friends.

"What, you have a thing for faggots?" The man said still with a loud enough voice that everyone could hear.

"Yeah, I have some gay friends if that's what you're asking. I'm not gay, but I will defend my friends. If you don't like it, too bad," Dusty said in a slightly calmer but still agitated voice.

The man opened his mouth to speak but the owner of the restaurant came over and asked him to leave. Told him that he never wanted him to come back. "Well, I was just passing through this dump of a town, anyway. I bet McDonald's has better food."

As the man left, Dusty thanked the owner. Joe looked at him and said, "That man's loss. I like McDonald's, it was the only fast food in the town I used to live in, but the food here is way better."

"Well, I'm sorry there are still ignorant people around here. I won't say that I agree or disagree with homosexuality, but I figure that it is whosever's choice."

The boys left and Dusty took Cheyenne home. As the boys neared their home, Zac saw the social worker's car in the drive again so he pulled into his own. Joe wasn't so nervous seeing the car this time. She did say that she would stop by to see how his first day of school went and all.

As they walked in, the social worker was smiling. "Thought you would like to know, the application for your adoption has been approved. Again, it won't be finalized for a year, but unless your parents change their mind before then, you are officially a part of this family." Joe ran over and hugged the social worker and then Heather.

"Don't I get a hug?" Jim asked. Joe ran and hugged him, too.

"So how was your first day of school?" The social worker asked.

"Aside from a couple jerks who got in trouble, it was good. I have a ton of homework though," Joe said.

"Well, in that case, I'll leave you to your homework. I was just so happy to tell you the news and I'm glad that it made you happy," The social worker said as she headed for the door. "Probably won't be a surprise visit this month, but I will see you next month."

"Zac, you're mom's coming for dinner because I thought you'd like to stay. I'm fixing a special chili to celebrate. Instead of beef, I'm using shrimp and scallops."

The three boys sat at the table and started doing homework. While Jim let Joe do the work, he tried to explain anything that Joe seemed to have difficulties with. Since Zac was a grade ahead of them, he was on his own for his homework. Jim and Joe were there for him to talk about it and that helped. Jim was actually able to figure out Zac's trig questions.

The boys had just finished before supper was ready. They cleared off their books from the table and started setting it. Heather brought the pot of chili out. Zac had just opened the door to see if his mom was coming as she was walking up the steps to the porch. "Good timing, Mom. My other mom just put the chili out."

"Well, I didn't want to come too early," Marilyn stated.

"Why not? You are a part of this family too," Joe said.

"Well, I am glad everyone feels that way," Marilyn said hugging Joe.

"I feel like giving you a key. You are welcome here any time. If the door is unlocked, just walk in. Like Joe said, you are as much a part of this family as any of us," Heather stated.

"Well, you definitely know how to make a person feel welcome. I feel the same way about my house. Jim has a key, but if the door is unlocked, just come in and announce yourself."

"Now that that is settled, let's eat. I love seafood," Joe said.

"Tomorrow, we'll probably get home close to six. I want to stop at the ranch for a few hours," Zac said as they sat down.

"That's fine, I'll have supper ready at six and then the boys can do homework afterwards," Heather said.

Joe had four bowls of chili. Everyone was trying to figure out where this scrawny looking kid was putting it. They chatted for a while, but went to bed early.

Compared to the first day back after the holidays, school seemed rather dull. Joe saw his grades improving. He was more relaxed as he no longer feared his parents finding out he was gay. Being in a family where he was accepted for who he is relieved a lot of stress from him. Jim helping with anything he didn't quite understand seemed to help also.

On a few occasions, Joe would feel like someone was staring at him. When he went to look, he thought he caught Cornelius hurrying to look at the work on his desk. Joe thought that he was cute, but didn't know anything about him. He didn't even have a notion as to whether Cornelius was gay or not. Only thing that he knew was he liked Cornelius's eyes.

As the boys were doing homework, Joe looked at Jim. "You know anything about that Cornelius kid?"

"Not really, why?" Jim asked. Joe started to blush.

"No reason, I'm just curious," Joe responded.

"You like him, don't you?" Jim inquired.

"No!" Joe was quick to answer, perhaps too quickly.

"Yes you do, you're blushing," Jim said, "It's cool Bro."

"But I don't even know if he's gay, let alone likes me." Joe stated.

"Want me to find out for you?" Jim offered.

"No way. I'd be embarrassed. Promise me that you won't ask him," Joe begged.

"OK, I won't. I'll ask Dusty or Zac to do it," Jim teased. Joe smacked him.

Working at the ranch, other than the fact they went every Saturday and Sunday, Zac kind of dictated when they went. Since neither Joe nor Jim had a license, not much could be done about that. Jim did occasionally say that he wanted to go and Zac would agree. Joe didn't know if he could ask, but then, he got as much time as he was allowed, so it really didn't make any difference.

It took Staff Sargent Vince Abram, Retired a little longer than expected to arrive, but he finally pulled into the ranch around mid-January. It was Saturday morning and Jackson was with his boyfriend visiting a family that Ryan knew. Zac noticed that Jackson was taking off more and more, too. Josh was busy somewhere and Zac, Jim and Joe were the only ones around. "Hey Vince. What took you so long?" Zac asked.

"Had trouble settling a few things, but I talked with Jackson every day. He assured me that all was good," Vince Abram said. He looked at Joe, "Have a new recruit, I see?"

"Yeah, this is Joe. He was Jim's foster brother," Zac said.

"Was? What happened?" Vince inquired.

"Mom adopted me," Joe grinned.

"Welcome aboard. I hear that the person who started the fire has been caught. That doesn't mean we need to leave security slack," Vince said.

"No, sir. Jackson said that if you got here while he wasn't, to tell you, do whatever you feel necessary. Just because one whacko was caught doesn't mean there isn't another," Zac stated.

"Exactly my point. I'll set my things in the barn, then I'd like to survey the ranch to get an assessment," Vince stated.

"Before you go, Jackson said that he'd ask for us, but…" Jim started.

Vince cut Jim off. "He already asked me. You get permission from your mom's to bring your firearms. I will teach you everything I know about them. We can do it on Saturdays when you're done here, unless you have a problem with it."

"No, sir, Saturdays or Sundays work great for us," Zac stated.

"Good, we'll start next Saturday, provided your moms do approve. And quit calling me sir," Vince chuckled.

"What do we call you, then?" Joe asked.

"Well, you weren't here when I told these two, just call me Vince, plain and simple Vince."

"OK, Vince, plain and simple Vince," Joe said cracking up. Vince shook his head and smiled. Jim and Zac mussed Joe's hair up.

"So, Vince, you just got into town, what's your plans after you assess the ranch?" Zac asked.

"Figured I'd go into town and grab a bite to eat," Vince replied.

"Would you rather a home cooked meal? I know my mom wouldn't mind and that would give you an opportunity to hear her give permission," Jim offered.

"Home cooked meal does sound better than restaurant food. If your mom won't mind," He stated. Jim got on his phone and called his mom right away. Then he let Vince know that he was welcome to follow them home.

Heather had brought out a roast with carrots and potatoes and set it on the table. As she was setting the plates down, Marilyn walked in carrying a pie. "Hope you don't mind, but I brought dessert."

"Not at all. What did you bring?" Heather asked.

"Well, I heard that Jim really liked my orange meringue pie," Marilyn said.

"He loves lemon meringue, but he's wanting another orange meringue," Heather told her. "One of these days, I'll need to get the ingredients to try and make one."

"You didn't let me finish. Six plates?" Marilyn said as she saw Heather putting the last plate down.

"Yes, I guess the new head of security arrived today. Jim thought he'd like a home cooked meal instead of eating at a restaurant," Heather stated.

"Your son has a heart of gold. Anyway, the pie I made is orange meringue," Marilyn stated.

"Jim will dump Zac and marry you if you're not careful," Heather chuckled. "Think we'll wait until we serve it to see if he notices."

A few minutes later, the boys walked in with their guest. "Hey Mom, this is Vince Abrams. He's retired from the military."

"Welcome to our home, Mr. Abrams," Heather said.

"Please, call me Vince," he said.

"Or Vince, plain and simply Vince," Joe said and started laughing until Zac gave him a light shove.

"Well, hello Vinnie," Marilyn said.

"Normally, I don't care for Vinnie, it is Vince. But you can call me Vinnie," he responded.

"And you can call me any time," Marilyn stated.

"Mom!" Zac was slightly embarrassed.

"What, I'm single and he is handsome," Marilyn said.

"And you are very attractive," Vince added.

"So, I hear that you are ex-military. Jackson said that you have agreed to teach our sons about firearms," Heather stated.

"Yes, ma'am, with your permissions of course," Vince responded.

"Please, call me Heather or Mrs. Bolt. I prefer Heather. Call me ma'am and I'll start calling you sir."

"I'm no sir. I was enlisted, Heather."

"Well, Jim has my permission, and Joe, too, though he has no firearms yet," Heather told him.

"Would you like to see the firearms?" Jim asked.

"After dinner, it's on the table," Heather told Jim.

As Jim headed for the table, he spotted the pie. "Sweet, lemon meringue pie. Mom makes the best."

"I didn't make it. Marilyn did," Heather said but kept quiet about it being orange instead of lemon.

"SWEET!!! Is it?" Jim got excited hoping.

Heather set Vince at the end of the table. She let Marilyn sit to his right and Zac to his left. She sat at the other end with Jim and Joe. After dinner was done, Heather cleared the table while Marilyn cut the pie. She set the first piece in front of Jim while he was chatting with Vince.

Not looking at the pie, Jim took a bite thinking it was lemon but still hoping. As he put the piece in his mouth, he gave a funny look. When he swallowed he looked at his mom and Marilyn. "This what I think it is? Did you make another orange meringue?" Jim smiled.

"I take it that you approve," Marilyn said.

"Approve? Sorry, Zac, but I'm gonna start dating your mom," Jim said. Everyone laughed.

In school, Joe started getting love notes in his locker. He accused Jim of doing it, but Jim denied it. Joe even asked for Jim's homework so he could compare the writing. When he knew it wasn't Jim, he went to Zac next. The notes were left every day, sometimes twice a day. Joe had no idea who had been sending them.

Vince Abrams was busy at the ranch. He made some suggestions to Jackson to which Jackson told him to take whatever steps were necessary. Security that Jackson had before was basically a service that came out when there were normally no ranch hands around. Jackson said that he would discontinue that service when ready and told Vince to hire his own, however many he needed. Vince started making calls to fellow soldiers he knew who were no longer serving and needed a job.

"So, what are you thinking?" Jackson asked him.

"Well, during the night, Security just needs to be security. I'd like the uniforms to be black military style BDUs. During the day, I want security officers around, but not so easily spotted," Vince said.

"When I worked at Second Chance, Sarge had the security officers work as ranch hands as well. Is that what you're thinking?" Jackson asked.

"Yes, but I want the actual hands to be able to tell without it being obvious to just anybody," Vince said.

"Well, I could order special shirts that are identical but blend with what the hands wear. Some people might notice the identical shirts, but only the really observant ones. And when you're ready to go full swing with security, we can have a staff meeting. Closest I've had to that is the Christmas party."

"Shirts might work, are we talking like a t-shirt or a button up?" Vince asked. Jackson and Vince continued talking about plans for Security. Over the next two weeks Vince needed to talk to each person he had called and find out who would be better as overnight and who would be able to be ranch hands.

Jackson also discussed the fact that he would be hiring a couple of people to work this ranch to replace the ones heading to help with the rescue as well as maybe another person or two for the rescue once he got it rolling.

As the end of January was nearing, the new house and office were completed. Jackson and Ryan started moving in. Vince had been conducting the interviews and had most of his security team planned.

Saturday, Jim and Zac were a little surprised when the first lesson that Vince gave them was how to properly clean their firearms. He told them that since the firearms have never been cleaned or fired, they would need to be cleaned of anything from being shipped to the gun store. Also, once they started firing them, they would need cleaning after use. Since Joe didn't have anywhere else to be at the time, he sat in on the lessons. He also helped clean the weapons.

When the boys got home, their mothers asked what they learned. "How to clean the pistols and rifles. Hope you don't mind, but I got to help," Joe said.

"No, I don't mind at all. Be good for you to learn. Once your adoption is finalized, we'll possibly get you a rifle and pistol too," Heather said. Joe smiled.

Monday, Joe found another note in his locker. He showed it to Jim. "Dude, either this note was written by a guy or some girl is trying to disguise her hand writing."

"Any idea who?" Joe asked.

"No idea. Only two people in this school that I know are gay and one bi. You and Zac, and then myself. Though since I met Zac, I might as well just claim to be gay. He's the only one I'm interested in," Jim stated.

"Why does it have to be so hard?" Joe asked.

"Unfortunately, there are too many people like Alejandro in this world, or Spermy," Jim said.

"Who is Spermy?" Joe asked.

"I decided that the way your dad has treated you, he was basically just a sperm donor. Hence, his new name is Spermy, as far as I'm concerned," Jim explained.

Joe smiled and said that he liked the name. Dusty walked up to them. "Valentine's Day is approaching, you and Zac have any plans?"

"Not that I know of. It's a Friday this year, so we might go out," Jim said.

"What about you, Joe? Have you found anyone yet?" Dusty asked.

"No, but someone keeps leaving these in my locker," Joe said showing the note. "Wasn't you was it?"

"I wouldn't do that," Dusty stated.

"Joe does have someone that he's interested in," Jim started.

"You best not say anymore!" Joe warned.

"Who are you interested in? I promise, I won't laugh," Dusty said.

"Thanks, Jim!" Joe said and headed for homeroom.

Jim walked in and headed for his seat. He looked at Joe and said, "Didn't mean to make you mad, Bro. I'm sorry. I shouldn't have said anything."

"I'll forgive you this time," Joe said, then smiled. Jim liked seeing Joe smile. Joe has a great smile.

Before they went to the cafeteria for lunch, Joe went to put his books in his locker. He found another note. This one read, "You are so cute, like a teddy bear. I'd love to cuddle with you." Joe looked around, he didn't see anyone that looked suspicious. He did see Jim closing his locker, but knew it wasn't him. Jim walked over to Joe.

"Ready for lunch? I'm buying as my way of apologizing," Jim said. Joe showed him the note. Jim said, "Whoever wrote it is right. You are cute like a teddy bear. Heck, if I weren't dating Zac, I'd want to date you."

"With Mom adopting me, though, that would be weird," Joe chuckled.

"True, but whoever you end up dating better consider themselves dang lucky."

They went to the cafeteria and got their lunches. Jim saw Dusty and Cheyenne just sitting down and went to join them. Joe followed. As they got to the table Dusty looked at Jim. "What took so long, Dude, you're usually here with me, not after?"

Jim looked at Joe. "I got another note," Joe said. Dusty smiled. "You know who it is, don't you?"

"I might, but I'm not sure. The handwriting does look familiar, though," Dusty said.

"Who is it?" Joe demanded.

"Won't say in case I'm wrong. I can ask who I think it is to find out," Dusty offered.

"It's not Cheyenne is it? Are you playing a joke on me?" Joe asked.

"What?" Cheyenne said when she heard her name.

"No, it's not Cheyenne. Want me to ask him?" Dusty said.

"No, I'd be embarrassed," Joe told him.

About that time Zac came over. "Embarrassed about what?"

"Never mind. Jim can tell you on the way home," Joe replied.

"Nope, Dusty and I are going to martial art class tonight. Be the two of you heading home," Jim stated.

After school, Jim got in the backseat of Dusty's car until they dropped Cheyenne off. As they pulled away and headed for the dojo, Jim looked at Dusty. "So, who do you think is writing the notes?"

"Not saying, I could be wrong. Who does Joe have a crush on?" Dusty asked turning the tables.

"Not my place to say, and I promised him that I wouldn't," Jim responded.

"Fair enough, can't blame you for keeping a promise. I have my suspicions, and if I'm correct, they are the same person. DANG!" Dusty suddenly exclaimed.

"What? You forget something?" Jim asked.

"Yea, I was going to ask Zac if the two of you had plans for Valentine's. I'm throwing a party and invited several people from our classes. I'm hoping that the two of you and Joe come," Dusty stated pulling into the dojo lot.

"Well, I'll ask Zac and if we don't have plans, expect us," Jim said getting out of the car.

After training, Dusty dropped Jim off. He was walking in the door as his mom was putting supper on the table. He set his book bag down by the steps and sat down. Heather looked at Jim. "Got a phone call today. Was told that your grades are slipping in Algebra."

"What? My grades aren't slipping," Jim said.

"I was told that instead of an A plus, you're only getting an A." Heather said. Joe noticed that she was trying to keep a straight face, but Jim was surprised by the accusation and didn't notice.

"I've gotten hundreds on all my homework and the last test we took, I didn't miss any and even got the extra credit correct," Jim said defending himself. Joe started cracking up.

"Bro, if you saw the look on her face as she was telling you, you'd have known she was pulling your leg," Joe said as he giggled.

"Joe's right. Only thing I've been hearing from any of your teachers or Mr. Duncan is how good you are doing. I just couldn't help myself," Heather said as she smiled at Jim.

Jim looked at his mom, "You are definitely my mom. Sounds like something I would do. At least I get it honest."

"I would hope I'm your mom. I went through a thousand hours of labor having you."

"You do realize that would have put you in labor almost forty-two days, right? I don't think I would have waited that long to come out," Jim said.

"Ok, I was really only in labor for six hours, but boy did it feel longer. Then when they placed this handsome baby boy in my arms, it was love at first sight."

"He was handsome as a baby? What happened?" Joe kidded.

"What do you mean, what happened?" Jim asked. Joe just laughed. "Sure you only gave birth to one son, Mom?"

After dinner, Jim started doing his homework. Joe pulled his out, too. "Mom said that I could wait until you did yours," Joe explained.

"Doesn't surprise me. We have a cool mom," Jim said. Joe agreed. "Valentine's Day, Dusty is having a party. Don't know if Zac already has plans, but if not, we'll probably be going. Dusty said you're invited, too."

"Is it a couples' party?" Joe asked.

"I don't know, but he said that he invited several of our classmates," Jim informed him.

"Well I guess we'll have to see what Zac has planned, then."

Almost on cue, Zac walked in the door. "What's up?" Jim asked.

"You have anything planned for Valentine's?" Zac asked.

"We were just discussing it. How about you?" Jim responded.

"Well, Dusty called me. He invited me to a party," Zac said.

"He doesn't waste much time, does he? I told him that if you didn't have any plans, we'd go."

"Cool, what about you, Joe?" Zac asked.

"Guess I'm going to Dusty's party."

Vince had his security set up and running. By day, the team roamed the grounds, and blended in with the other hands. While Vince decided to nix the idea of identical shirts, he and Jackson did come up with a way that the hands could identify security if the need arose. At night, security wore the black BDU and roamed the grounds. Both day and night, there would be horses at the ready for patrol or emergencies.

Every day in school, Joe found notes from his secret admirer. Most of them talked about how attractive Joe was, but a few said that they would meet at the party if he came. This got Joe more excited. The last note that Joe received was on Valentine's Day. Joe showed it to Jim.

The note read, "Really hoping to see you at the party, tonight. I'll be the one holding the teddy bear with the green shirt."

"Guess you'll find out who it is tonight," Jim said. "I just hope whoever is writing these isn't playing a joke. That would be cruel."

"I'd be crushed," Joe said.

"I know, Bro. I hope you won't need me, but I'll be there for you if you do," Jim offered.

Joe was happy when school finally let out. When the boys got home, he hurried with his homework. "Relax Bro. Party doesn't start until seven. I'm sure whoever sent the notes is just as nervous as you."

"You really think that? Why would they be nervous? They know who I am!" Joe said excitedly.

"But they don't know if you'll show up. They don't know if you'll like them, too. They don't even know that you're gay. They are probably thinking, what if that cute handsome teddy bear Joe is straight and turns me down. What if he teases me?" Jim told Joe.

"Even if I were straight, I wouldn't tease them," Joe said.

"I know that, but they don't. I bet he's trying to figure out the best outfit to look presentable," Jim assured Joe.

"I know what I'm wearing, the green shirt that you gave me for Christmas and black Levi's."

"Excellent choice, if you ask me. I'm wearing a blue western shirt, myself and my best pair of blue Levi's."

Zac walked in the door at six. He looked at Jim and smiled. "Dude, your fly is open. Is that an invite?" Jim looked down and quickly zipped up his fly. Zac walked over and kissed him.

Joe came down the stairs. "I don't think I'm going. My stomach is tied in knots and I feel like I'm going to throw up. You guys go ahead and just let me know who it is."

"Oh, no. You're dressed and ready, you're just nervous. Bet you a hundred dollars that once you find out who it is, you'll feel better," Jim said.

"You think? I feel like my heart is in my throat and I can't breathe," Joe exclaimed. Jim gave him a hug,

They got to the Dusty's place and Joe was in awe. "This place must have cost a fortune."

"Dr. Bear does make good money, that's for sure," Jim said.

"Yea, but at least he and Dusty aren't snobbish about it," Zac added.

"No, quite the opposite, actually, they're the friendliest rich people I know," Jim said.

"You know a lot of rich people?" Joe asked.

"What about Cade?" Zac asked.

"OK, no I don't know a lot of rich people, and maybe they're tied with Cade on the friendly part, just not so much on the rich part. I really don't know how much either of them have, though," Jim said.

Dusty greeted them at the door. "Come in. You're the first ones to show up."

"I think I'm going to be sick," Joe said. "I'll wait in the truck."

Joe started to turn around but Jim grabbed him and hugged him. "It's just nerves, Bro. I promise, you'll feel better, soon."

Jim had been in Dusty's house several times, and Zac a time or two. Joe was in awe of the place. "Feel free to grab something to drink, we have punch, soda or water. At seven, snacks will be set out."

Jim went to pour a glass of Coke and a man he hadn't met walked over. "Never seen you here before," Jim said out of curiosity.

"This is my Uncle Darry. He's my mom's brother. He stopped by on his way home. He was visiting a friend in Ohio. He lives in SoCal," Dusty said.

"Nice to meet you Uncle Darry," Jim said.

"You too, you must be Jim. Dusty has talked a lot about you. I must say that he seems really impressed by you." Jim blushed a bit.

"Dusty is great. Did he tell you about how we became friends?" Jim asked.

"He did a little bit. He didn't want to give too much detail because he didn't feel it would be right without checking with you," Uncle Darry replied.

"Dusty's cool, I wouldn't have minded," Jim told him.

"Well, aside from his girlfriend, you're the one he talks constantly about. He really holds you as a great friend."

"He is the great friend. If it wasn't for him, I'm not sure what I'd be like," Jim countered.

"He saw something special in you. He told me that you were greatly depressed?"

"That might be an understatement, but yeah. Felt like I had lost everything," Jim said with a little sadness in his eyes. "Now I feel like I have almost everything. Those that I lost can never be replaced, but they live within my heart."

"Well, I'm glad you pulled through. Dusty thinks highly of you, so you must be a cool young man. I'll be around until tomorrow, you ever want to just chat, swing by, or call. Enjoy the party," Uncle Darry said before walking around to meet other guests.

"Isn't he great?" Then Dusty pointed at the door, "Look!" Joe's secret admirer had just walked in carrying a five-foot-tall teddy bear wearing a green shirt. Joe didn't miss it either, nobody could miss that teddy bear. Joe just stood there and let his secret admirer come over to him.

 

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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