Another Chance - Book Three

by Zarek Dragon

 

As the Fourth of July approached, Jackson talked with Joe and Chris, "The Sheriff's Department will be carrying the US and Wyoming flags this year. Sheriff Archer has asked for some of our horses to utilize.  Chris, since I think you know the Sheriff best, why don't you see how many horses he needs.  Joe, will you be riding Aurixi?"

"Will she be up to it?  I mean, it'll be exactly two weeks after she gave birth," Joe questioned.

"She shouldn't have any problems.  I'd like for her to lead our ranch hands and I think it will draw some attention if the new colts were on either side of her."

"Shouldn't we ask Jim and Brock since they own the colts?" Joe was concerned.

"He already asked me since technically they are still my colts until the vet releases them," Jim said sticking his head in the door. "And I called Brock and…"  Jim didn't get to complete his sentence before Joe and Chris tackled him.

"What about me?" Zac asked.

Jackson hugged Zac and welcomed him back, then everyone asked Jake how he liked his trip.  "Train ride was fun, but Daddy said that we got on the wrong train, he also said that he was glad that we did, and then we drove someplace and they have horseys, too, and, and a guy named CJ owns the place and he has a little boy, and there was a guy named Dusty, but not the Dusty that was Daddy's best man, he's seeing a guy named Zack, but not Daddy Zac, and CJ and Dalton had us stay with them and they wouldn't let Daddy or Daddy pay for anything, they kept telling everyone that their money was fake," Jake finally stopped to breathe.  "Why are Daddies' money fake?"

"That's just something people say so the person doesn't charge your daddies.  They don't really mean that they have fake money," Jackson explained.

"OH, so if I go to a store and tell them that my money is fake, they won't charge me?" Jake asked.

"It doesn't work that way.  They have to charge someone, usually the one who says it," Joe clarified.

"Oh, so unless I want to pay, I shouldn't say it," Jake stated.

"You got it.  So, how did you boys get back, are trains running now?" Jackson asked.

"OH NO!!!  When we went to turn the truck in at their local Avis, CJ wouldn't even let me pay there.  He talked to the agent and then the manager.  Next thing I knew, he was handing us the keys and a document stating that we owned the truck.  A title will be mailed to us.  They also gave us a temporary tag to use.  When I gave CJ a funny look, he stated that we had to get the trailer and horses back here somehow," Zac answered.

"He was correct, but you already have a truck.  What will you do with this one?" Jackson asked.

"I told him that and said that we could have just rented it to get back.  He said that Jim needed a truck for the ranch so he could save his car for fun.  This truck is in both our names but will be Jim's," Zac explained.

"I can't argue with his logic and he does like taking care of his friends," Jackson smiled.

"How's Platnum?" Jake asked.

"Platinum is doing well.  He and Plutonium have grown a little, they are about the size they would be if they went full term.  Brock has been coming every day during his breaks from the rescue to help with both of them.  He says that you better love Platinum or he'll tickle you until you do," Joe replied.

"I do love Platnum.  I can't wait until I can ride him," Jake stated.

"He has to grow a few years and then be broken before you can," Zac informed Jake.

"I know, Daddy told me that when he was born," Jake stated with a little pouty face.

"You need to grow a little before you can ride by yourself as well.  About the time you are ready, so will Platinum," Jim said encouragingly.

"Can I come every day with you so I can help take care of him?" Jake asked.

Brock stuck his head in the door.  "I was coming over to check on the colts.  I'm guessing that I don't get to tickle Jake," he said smiling.

Jake ran over to him, "Thank you for Platnum. I didn't get to thank you before and I love him."

"Seeing you happy makes me happy and it worked out for me as well.  You have some great dads," Brock replied.

Jake smiled, "They are the bestest dads in the whole world."

"I'd argue with you saying that my dad is but you should believe that yours are.  I'm happy for you," commented the once spoiled brat.

"I'm happy for you," Jim said looking at Brock.  "You are so different than the boy we first met and you seem happier."

"Well, I learned that being a spoiled brat wasn't helping anyone.  This is the me that I want to be.  I'm making friends, have a great boyfriend, and I am the happiest I've been since my mom left.  I'm just thankful that you didn't have to find a place to hide my body," Brock joked.  "I know that you wanted to and I can't blame you."

"You're a good young man, Brock," Jim stated.  "I'm glad that I got to know the real you."

"Back to talking about the parade.  Joe will be leading our group riding Aurixi with a colt on either side.  Jim and Zac, would the two of you like to follow him?" Jackson inquired.

"Sure, we can do that.  Jake will ride with me," Jim stated.

"Then Chris, you will follow them with another hand beside you," Jackson announced.

"Can I be in the parade?" Brock asked.

"You work for the ranch, maybe a volunteer at the Rescue, but that IS a part of the ranch.  You want to ride beside Chris?" Jackson offered.  "I can have them mention the rescue, then."

"I'd be honored to help represent the ranch alongside Chris," Brock stated.

"After the parade, we are having a picnic here for all employees, paid and volunteers and their families.  Then we will open for business at one.  The Junior Rodeo camp will be having their riders in the parade.  While they are about halfway through this summer's camp, they are hoping to drum up more business," Jackson informed everyone.  "Brock, you don't have to work at the Rescue on the Fourth, if you'd like to help take people on trails, you can earn some tips."

"Would I be taking tips away from anyone else?" Brock asked.

"Doubtful. We will be so busy that another person would ease the pressure a little," Zac stated.

"In that case, I'll do it," Brock smiled, "but I want to be last in the rotation so that I don't take anyone else's tips."

"We actually don't do a rotation.  The customer decides who they want to ride with," Jim stated.

"OH," Brock simply said.

That night as everyone was around the dinner table, they were chatting and talking about the parade the next day.  Nick let it be known that he was the bearer of the American Flag and his head deputy would carry the Wyoming flag.  Jim looked at Heather, "Mom, Jackson said that after the parade, we'll be doing a carry-in picnic for all the employees and families.  Is it too late for you to make potato salad?  You make the best."

"I suppose, if I start the potatoes after supper, I can make some.  Good thing I just bought two bags of the jumbo russets," She agreed.  "My question is, are we riding after?"

"Jackson plans to open the ranch for riding at one," Zac stated.

"Then who do I choose to ride with?" she grinned.

"To be fair, you've ridden with Joe and me a few times.  I think you should ride with your newest son," Jim replied.

"That works for me.  Chris, would you like to take your father and me out on the trails tomorrow?" Heather asked.

"I'd be honored, Mom," Chris answered.  His eyes were glazed as though he were about to cry.  Heather kissed his cheek and whispered in his ear that she loves him, then the tears started flowing.  "I love you, too," Chris said as he hugged her.

That night, Nick stayed to help Heather with the potato salad.  Jake asked Chris if he was staying too.  "I would, but all the beds are taken," Chris answered. "And Dad will be sleeping on the couch."

"I have a big bed, you can sleep with me, Uncle Chris," Jake offered.

"Well, since you asked, I guess I can stay," Chris gave in.

Jake smiled, "You wanna go up and play cars?"

"Can I play, too?" Jim asked.

"You're too old now, you're married," Jake stated.

"Grandma and my dad used to play cars with me when I was your age. They were married, and I'm only a year older than Chris," Jim reasoned.

"See," Jake laughed and took off.

Jim took off after him.  He picked Jake up about middle of the stairs and started tickling him, and then hugged him.  "See, I'm not too old to chase you and tickle you."

"Now I gotta go pee.  Put me down, please," Jake had an urgency about his request so Jim carried Jake to his room quickly and set him down.  Jake ran into the bathroom and Jim could hear the stream hitting the water almost immediately.  Jake came out, "Phew, I barely made it, thank you."

"Not a problem, now can I play cars with you and Chris?" Jim smiled.

"You're still…" Jake started, but realized that Jim was between him and any escape.  "If you want, you can," Jake grinned.

"Were you about to say that I'm still too old?" Jim asked.

"Ummm," Jake started.

"Be honest and you won't get punished. But if you lie," Jim didn't want to finish that sentence.  He did not want to punish Jake.

"If I say yes, are you going to tickle me?" Jake asked.

"Come here," Jim told Jake.  Jake was reluctant to go, afraid that he was in trouble.  Jim picked him up and carried him to the bed. Then Jim sat on the bed and sat Jake on his lap.  "As long as you are honest and do what you are told, you won't get in trouble here.  And don't let not wanting tickled be a determining factor of honesty.  If ever you don't feel like being tickled, just tell Daddy and I won't tickle you."

"I don't want to be tickled right now, maybe another day.  And I was going to say that you're still old," Jake honestly said.  "But I was only playing."

"And for that, you get a hug and a kiss on the cheek," Jim told him.

"And a cuddle?" Jake asked.

"Whenever you want, if I am able," Jim said smiling.

"Thank you, Daddy.  You wanna play cars with me and Chris?" Jake offered.

"Chris and me," Jim corrected, "and I thought I was too old."

"I told you that I was only playing," Jake shot back.

"Yup, he's definitely your son," Zac said after overhearing the conversation.

That night, everyone went to bed early except Heather and Nick.  They finished making potato salad to take to the picnic.  Chris had a little trouble sleeping as a little boy was pressing hard against his body.  Suddenly Jake started shouting in his sleep, "No, please don't spank me anymore. I didn't mean to…"  Chris woke him up.

"Are you alright?" Chris asked and then he saw the wet spot.

"I'm sorry, I thought it was part of my dream," Jake explained.

"It was an accident, I'm sure," Chris explained.

Jim came running into the room, "I heard Jake screaming, is everything alright?"

"He had an accident.  I'm guessing that he was going in his dream and didn't realize that he was really going," Chris explained.

"You haven't had an accident since that first night, are you alright buddy?  Sounded like you were having a nightmare," Jim looked at Jake with concern.

"I'm sorry," Jake stated, looking down.

"Let's get you cleaned up and Daddy will hold you until you fall asleep.  Maybe that will stop the nightmare from returning," Jim said lovingly.

"I'll change these sheets and see if I can't dry that spot on the mattress," Chris offered.

"Ever since the first night, Mom's been putting a pad under the sheets, just change it with the sheets and it'll be dry.  I'm sorry, Chris," Jim apologized.

"Don't sweat it, I just wish I knew what caused his nightmare," Chris responded.

"Jake, you have any idea what brought on your nightmare?" Jim asked.

"No, I'm sorry," Jake was about to cry.

"You don't need to be sorry here unless you purposely do something wrong, understand?"

"Uh huh," Jake answered as he changed his pajamas.  Jim sat in a chair sitting in the room and Jake climbed onto his lap. He sat on Jim's left leg with his legs going across Jim's lap.  As soon as he pressed his head against Jim's bare chest, his left thumb went into his mouth and he fell asleep.  Jim didn't want to move and disturb him, so he just went to sleep holding Jake.

Jim woke up staring at Zac using his phone to take pics.  "Sorry that I didn't come back to bed, he had a nightmare, something about someone spanking him," Jim explained.

"He needed you, I just hope that he doesn't keep having nightmares," Zac said as he moved to kiss Jim.

"I'm not sure, but I think I may have caused this one.  I told him that if he tells the truth he wouldn't get punished," Jim looked down as he spoke.

"That may have triggered it, but it's not your fault.  Part of me wants to find out who did this to him and punish them," Zac stated.  "They are the ones at fault, but that wouldn't help Jake any."

"Other than love him, and correct him in a loving manner, I am at a loss of how to help him," Jim stated.

"Maybe Dr. Bear can give us some ideas.  We can go see him after we sign the papers with Aunt Sallie on Monday," Zac suggested.

Jake started to stir, "Morning Daddy, did you hold me all night?"

"I did, how did you sleep?" Jim asked.

"I felt comfy and dreamt that I was riding Platnum," Jake grinned.  "He will be the bestest horsey, after Gold, of course."

"Yes, I'm sure he will.  You ready to get a bath and get ready for the parade?" Jim inquired.

"Uh huh, with bubbles?" Jake questioned.

"Of course, a bath is no fun without bubbles or toys," Jim agreed.

"Maybe after parade and everything, can I take some of my money and go get a boat or submarine to play in the tub?" Jake asked.

"Nope, your money is fake," Jim said, seeing if Jake caught on to what he was saying.  Jake grinned at Jim, letting him know that he understood.

Chris was starting to stir, "Can I go pee before Jake takes his bath?  Then I need to go home, shower and get ready for the parade."

"Have at it," Jim responded.

After everyone was ready, they met at the ranch to get the horses ready for the parade.  Nick and two of his deputies showed up to get the horses that Chris had picked out for them.  "These are some beautiful animals, Chris," Nick declared, "but then, every horse on this ranch is beautiful."

"Makes it hard to choose which one to ride sometimes," Chris remarked.

"I can imagine.  You should ask your dad about getting your own horse," Nick teased.

"I would, but you see, my dad is a real meanie and wouldn't go for it.  He beats me twenty-eight times a day and that's just the first fifteen minutes after he wakes up from passing out drunk," Chris shot back.

"I have never passed out drunk or beat you," Nick stated.

"And you've never been a meanie, either.  So, can I get my own horse?" Chris asked.

"Not after what you just said," Nick retorted.

"About you never being a meanie?" Chris continued with the teasing.

"No, before that," responded Nick.

"Are you seriously NOT going to let me get a horse for that?" Chris looked surprised.

"What do you think?" Nick questioned.

"I think that you are the best dad in the whole world and know when your son is just playing," Chris honestly said.

"Oh sure, NOW you're saying that," Nick quipped.

"I just love watching you two interact," one of the deputies commented.

"Why?" Chris queried.

"Because I can see how much love you have for each other, even through your play fighting.  Sir, you care so much for your son, and Chris, you have so much respect for your dad that you know you can tease with him.  I wish all families got along as well as the two of you," the deputy stated.

"Where's Dawn?" Chris looked puzzled.

"She's helping set up for the parade but will be joining us," Nick informed his son.

"That explains the fourth horse," Chris stated with a grin.

"You like her don't you?" Nick teased.

"As a friend, anything more and she's too old," Chris started turning red.  "Besides, Chelsea and I are talking now.  She sits with me at lunch and the last day of school, she kissed me on the mouth.  No tongue, though."

"Really?  I'm guessing that you will be wanting to date soon, then," Nick spoke and then smiled at his son.  "And I'll be sure to let Dawn know that you think she's too old."

"No!!!" Chris pled.  His eyes begged his dad to NOT say anything.  Nick laughed and hugged his son.

As the boys were getting ready for the parade, a truck pulled into the lot with a horse trailer attached.  The driver got out of the truck and Jackson greeted him.  They went around to the back of the trailer and unloaded six ponies.  One was a palomino and Jim almost fell in love with it right away.  "What are the ponies for?" Jim questioned.

"Well, I'm thinking that some of the kids around Jake's age may want to start riding, or like when we do holiday or special events, we can have pony rides.  These are Chincoteague Ponies, and the one you are eyeballing is named Oro.  The Chincoteague pony is descended from Spanish horses.  You may like Oro even more if you know what his name means," Jackson responded.

"I'm taken Spanish class at school, it means Gold," Jim answered with a grin.

"Think Jake can handle riding him in the parade?" Jackson asked.

"Jake can stay on him, provided he is broken, but I think the pony may need to be attached to Zac's or my saddle to keep him from wandering off," Jim suggested.

"Of course, I was mainly concerned with whether you think it would be a problem for him to sit on the pony by himself," Jackson commented.

Jake came over and saw Oro, "Is he a smaller version of Horsey Gold?"

"He's a pony.  Jackson was just asking if you could ride him in the parade," Jim explained.

"I've never ridden by myself before, but I can stay on if you lead the pony," Jake confided.

"That's what we were thinking," Jim informed him.

"Oh, then I can do that," Jake said with a grin.

"I'll miss having you on my lap, but my crotch will be more comfortable not having your weight bouncing on it," Jim acknowledged.

"What's a crotch?" Jake asked.  Jim dropped his head, wishing that he hadn't said anything.

"It's the part of your lap between your legs," Jim explained, hoping that it satisfied Jake.

"You mean where my…" Jake started and then lowered his voice to just above a whisper, "private is?"

"Yes, that is your crotch," Jim smiled.

"Well, I'd rather sit on yours than you on mine," Jake said, and then added, "You'd squish me."

"I'll squish you alright with a big hug and kiss," Jim teased.  Jake just held his arms up so Jim picked him up and hugged him tightly and gave him a kiss.

The horses and pony were saddled and ready for the parade.  Saddles were left loose for the horses comfort until they got to the starting point.  They were loaded into haulers and trucks took them and the riders to where the parade started.

At eleven in the morning, Nick started the parade with him carrying the United States flag.  Dawn rode to his left and one pace back holding the Wyoming flag.  The other two deputies were behind them.

Just before they reached the middle of the parade, Joe heard the announcer telling the audience about the Sheriff's Department and Nick.  Then it was his turn, "And next we have the Another Chance Ranch. Leading them, we have a mare named Aurixi ridden by young Joe Bolt.  You can see that two foals are following; Aurixi gave birth to these colts two weeks ago.  Looky there, as Aurixi stops, one of the colts decided it was lunch time." Those that could see Platinum suckling on one of Aurixi's teats started to laugh.

"For those wondering, the colts' names are Platinum and Plutonium.  It's really quite elementary, if you ask me.  Next we have Silver and Gold, who you may remember last year, were the horses used to carry the flags.  Riding them are Zac and Jim Bolt and their son is Jake, riding the pony named Oro.  Hmmm, I'm told that Aurixi in some language means gold. Oro is Spanish for gold. And then we have Silver AND Gold.  Anyone else sensing a theme?  Look at young Jake waving at the crowd.  He seems to be really enjoying this folks.  For those wondering, Jackson Sprayberry has added these ponies to his ranch for those families with younger children who are afraid to put their child on a big horse.  I'm told that Jake is only five, so you can see how safe they are."

"Continuing to represent the Another Chance Ranch we have…" They heard the announcer continue mentioning everyone until they were out of earshot.  Once they reached the end of the parade, they rode to where the trailers were parked.

"Man, did you see, every time I stopped, one of the colts wanted to suck on Aurixi.  I was embarrassed yet thought it was funny, too," Joe stated.

"We were right behind you Bro, of course we saw," Jim said grinning.  "It was funny to watch."

"Did you hear that guy mention my name?" Jake asked.  "Can we do it again?"

"Not today, we need to get the horses back to the ranch and have a picnic.  I hope we get some of Grandma's potato salad.  She makes the best.  And Jackson is grilling hamburgers and cheeseburgers.  I hear that Jacob and Elizabeth are going to be fixing corn on the cob.  Josh and his family are supplying fried chicken," Jim replied.

"Don't forget, Mom and Vince are bringing several pies, and before you ask," Zac was looking at Jim, "Yes, she is bringing a couple of orange meringue as well as a few cherry pies and apple pies.  She's leaving one orange meringue at the house for in case you don't get any."

"I always knew your mom loved me," Jim said with a smile.

"And which pie will you want?" Zac asked looking at Jake.

"I don't know, apple maybe.  It's the only kind I've ever had," Jake replied.

"What? You've never tried any other flavors?  What if we put a piece of each flavor and then if you don't like it, you'll know and not have to eat it again," Jim suggested.

"Ok, I'll try them," Jake agreed.

After the horses were put in their stalls for the time being, the boys went to where Jackson had set up a picnic area.  Jackson was standing at the grill when they walked over.

"Cheeseburger, please," Jake requested.

"How about a teriyaki burger instead?" Jackson asked.

"What's that?" Jake inquired.

"Well, you fix a hamburger, add teriyaki sauce while it's cooking and a pineapple slice." Jim answered.  "I like them."

"Except, I did a slight variation, I added bacon to your recipe," Jackson stated.

"BACON!!!" Jake yelled.

"I think he wants to try one," Jim said with a laugh.

Jackson handed each of them a plate, but Jim offered to carry Jake's for him.  They walked over to the food table and Zac put a spoonful of potato salad onto all three plates. He then placed an ear of corn on everyone's plate.

They made their way to the table where Heather was sitting.  Jake saw her and ran over, "Grandma, I haven't seen you since this morning."

Heather laughed and then told him that she saw him in the parade.  "I was surprised to see you on a pony by yourself."

"Jackson's idea, he had just received the ponies as we were preparing the horses," Jim let her know.

"If he was wanting to let everyone know that he had them, I couldn't think of a better way, or a cuter rider," Heather stated and then kissed Jake on the forehead.

"Uncle Matt and Aunt Gina, are you joining us?" Jake hollered.

"If you want me to.  Hope no one minds that I came even though I'm not an employee.  Jackson invited me since I am a regular," Matt answered.

"Then no one should mind, they may question it, but if Jackson invited you, this IS his picnic and you are family," Zac replied.

"I saw you in the parade, Jake.  You ready to be my trail guide?" Matt teased.

"Sure, what's a trail guide?" Jake responded.  Everyone laughed.

"That's what Daddy does when he takes people out on the trails.  Matt doesn't need one, but he enjoys our company," Jim explained.

"OH, OK, but Daddy's gotta lead my pony. I'm not ready to ride by myself," Jake said. Again, he got a laugh from everyone at the table.

"Josh is here fixing chicken on the grill and said that he'd watch the burgers while his chicken is cooking.  What do you think of the teriyaki burgers?" Jackson asked, looking at Jake.

"It's really good," Jake replied.

"When you go up to get pie, be careful.  The lemon meringue has a funny color," Brock mentioned as he was walking by.  Jim wanted to tell him that it wasn't lemon, but just laughed instead.  "What's so funny," Brock questioned.

"Jim probably won't tell you, but those aren't lemon meringue.  My mom made orange meringue and Jim really loves them," Zac answered.

"OH, that explains the color," Brock commented.

Jim grabbed four pieces of pie, an apple, a cherry and two orange meringue.  He cut the apple and cherry in half.  When he got back to the table, he gave half of each to Jake, except the orange, he gave the whole piece.  Zac commented that he could have shared the orange with Jake since they have a whole pie waiting at the house. "Look, I don't mind sharing the apple, I'm only sharing the cherry because it's Jake and I might have with you if I weren't already sharing with him.  Don't ask me to share my orange meringue," Jim stated with a straight face.  Zac gave him a kiss and told him that he looked cute.  "Thank you, but I'm still not sharing it," Jim responded and chuckled.

"All that pie, we may need to 'workout' a little extra tonight," Zac smirked.

"Me, too?" Jake asked.

"No, you're so young that you'll burn your pie off just having fun," Jim told him.

As they were finishing their pie, a sapphire blue Ford F250 pickup truck pulled onto the parking lot.  The truck was hauling a four-horse trailer.  A man with definite Oriental traits stepped out.  Zac looked at Jackson, "Are you expecting another delivery today?"

"No, why don't we go see why he's here." Jackson suggested as he stood up.

As they approached the man, he held his hand out.  "My name is Kage Satake.  I'm looking for the owner of a horse that was in the parade representing this ranch."

"I own most of them, to which one are you referring?" Jackson questioned.

"This one was owned by Jon Bolt, she led your group.  Her name is Aurixi," Kage responded.

"She's not for sale so if you're wanting to buy her, you are wasting your time, but if you would still like to talk with the owner," Jackson warned.

Kage led them to the back of his horse trailer.  As he opened the tail gate, Zac called for Jim to come over.  Kage unloaded a horse that could almost pass as Gold's twin, only definitely a little older.  "See, my father gave me this horse right before he passed away.  I was sixteen when he met with Jon Bolt about five years ago.  They bred this horse with Aurixi and produced a beautiful colt.  That colt went to Jon's son but Aurixi disappeared that night.  Had she not disappeared, they were supposed to breed the two horses again to produce a foal for me.  My father had been trying to find Aurixi ever since."

"My name is Jim Bolt.  Jon was my dad," Jim said shaking Kage's hand.

"Is your father around?  I take it, he got Aurixi back," Kage smiled as he spoke, that is, until Jim answered.

"No, dad was killed in an accident a couple of years ago.  We did get Aurixi back about ten months ago, though.  My mom owns her, but I handle everything considering her," Jim looked down at first, but then raised his dampened eyes to meet Kage's.

"I'm so sorry.  I won't hold you to the agreement made by our fathers, but when Aurixi is ready to be studded again, I am hoping that you use Chrysos, my stallion, to do it.  I will be staying in Cody for a couple of years, and I am also looking for a ranch to take care of Chrysos while I am here."

"Our dads made an agreement, we should honor them by honoring their agreement," Jim stated.

"You do your father proud," Kage complimented.

"As for the ranch, we do board horses here, that would make it easier to use Chrysos when Aurixi is ready," Jackson suggested.

"That is what I was hoping," Kage said with a grin.  As he spoke, Chrysos walked over to Jim.  "He seems to know that you own his son.  He also seems to respond very well as though he understands every word that I say."

"Aurixi and Gold are that way as well.  What does Chrysos mean, by the way?" Jim queried.

"It's one of many Latin words for gold," Kage replied.

"Aurix is Draconian or Dragon-talk for gold, Dad just added an 'I' for Aurixi.  Chrysos is Latin meaning gold and the two have an offspring named Gold.  Makes me have to ask, what are you planning to name the next off spring?"

"I am thinking Aurum which is another Latin word for gold.  It is where they get the au on the periodic table for gold."

"Aurum, I like that," Jim stated.

"I will try to be here at least once a week to exercise Chrysos, but you and your family are welcome to use him anytime that you wish," Kage said before following Jackson into the office.  Jim took Chrysos to the stables.  Aurixi and Gold seemed to recognize him immediately.  Chrysos walked towards them and Jim didn't dissuade him in any way.

After Jim managed to get Chrysos into a stall, he went back to the table where Jake was still eating pie.  Jim looked at his seat and noticed that his orange meringue pie was missing.  "Before you ask, Jake was eyeballing it, so I gave it to him," Heather stated.

"So you ate two whole pieces of pie and are eating mine now?" Jim teased Jake.

Jake just put a piece of the pie into his mouth and replied, "Uh huh."  And then he giggled causing him to cough.  Jim patted his back until Jake quit coughing.

Once Jake had settled down, Jim went up to the dessert table.  Two empty pie pans sat where the orange meringue pies had been.  Walking back to their table, Jim sat down and stuck his lower lip out as if to pout.  "Didn't you grab another piece?" Heather asked.

"No, it's all gone," Jim sounded defeated.

"I'm sorry, had I known," Heather apologized.

Zac walked over to the table.  Seeing the look on Jim's face he had to ask, "Did someone steal Jim's pie?"

"Yes, your mother-in-law gave it to a cute little munchkin," Jim responded.

Zac started to laugh.  "Good thing we have that pie at home then, isn't it?"

"This isn't funny," Jim stated and then looked at Jake putting another bite into his mouth.  Jim couldn't help but smile at how innocent the little munchkin looked.

Half of Jim's pie was gone and Jake looked at him, "I'm full, you want the rest of my pie?"

"Are you sure you're full?  You're not just offering it because I didn't get any, are you?" Jim asked.

"He did eat a lot," Heather confirmed.

"I know, I think his legs are hollow, or were," Jim chuckled.

"My belly hurts," Jake stated.

"Lie down in the grass, hopefully, you'll feel better before we go riding," Jim suggested as he finished what Jake left of his orange meringue pie.

Jake did feel better after taking a nap in the grass and then going to the bathroom.  He rode the pony that he used during the parade, and made more tips than he ever had before.  When the day was done, Jake made twice as much in tips as Jim did.

Before heading home, Jim took Jake to Wal-Mart to let him pick out a bath toy.  Jake found a toy submarine that he liked.  When they got to the counter, Jake looked at the cashier, "Daddy will have to pay, he said that my money is fake."

"I did say that, but as much as you made today, you should be buying ME something," Jim joked.

"What do you want?" Jake asked.

"For you to stay as sweet and loveable as you are," Jim answered.

"I can't buy that," Jake commented.

"No?  Guess we just put your money in your bank.  You keep it up, by the time you can drive, you may have enough to buy your own car," Jim said, giving Jake a hug.

The cashier rang up the toy and Jim gave her cash.  He took Jake out to the truck and they went home.  "Can I take a bath to try out my new toy?" Jake asked.

"OK, and as much as you ate at the picnic, we're not having supper tonight.  If you get hungry, let me know and I will fix you something," Jim offered.

Jake went upstairs and Jim followed him so he could get the right water temperature and right amount of bubbles.  Jake didn't even wait for Jim to leave before he stripped.  He tossed the sub into the bubbles and then climbed in.

Monday morning, Zac and Jim took Jake with them to the group home.  Aunt Sallie had the papers ready for them to sign.  As they walked in, they were surprised to see Ryan there.  Jim gave him a funny look.  "Do you know Judge Sprayberry?" Aunt Sallie asked.

"He's our boss's husband," Jim answered.

"Then you know that he replaced Judge Dillon in family court.  I have asked him here today, telling him about Jake's background and how he came here.  I told him how Jake had taken right to you.  That explains why he was smiling the whole I time I was talking," Aunt Sallie stated.

"She asked me if I would expedite finalizing the adoption of Jake.  To be honest, I should probably step aside for this, but unless someone objects to me handling it, I will," Ryan commented.

"Unless Aunt Sallie objects, I have no objection," Jim replied and Zac agreed.

"I believe that Jake is where he belongs.  I have never seen him happier, he loves Jim and Zac and I believe that they love him," Aunt Sallie argued.  "If you can be instrumental in making that permanent, I have no objections."

"What about you, Jake?  Do you want these two as your permanent daddies?" Ryan inquired.

"They are my daddies," Jake responded.

"Very well, I see no reason to prolong this, as soon as you sign all of the paperwork, I will finalize the adoption.  Jake is now and forever your son," Ryan announced with a grin.

Jim and Zac signed the papers and Ryan signed where he needed.  Aunt Sallie notarized the signatures, giving Jim and Zac a copy and Ryan took a copy to file with the courthouse.

"It is official," Jim said, looking at Jake as a tear ran down his cheek.

"Why are you crying, Daddy?" Jake wondered as he watched the tear run down.

"I'm happy. You are officially Zac's and my son and nobody can take you away," Jim replied.

"I never have to come back here?  I'll miss Aunt Sallie, but I am glad that you are my daddy. I love you," Jake commented.  Jim hugged Jake tightly as the tears flowed freely.  There was no doubt that Jim loved that little boy.  Ryan smiled as he patted Jim on the back and left to file the documents.

Leaving the home, Jim drove to the elementary school to get Jake signed up to start kindergarten.  As he entered the office he noticed a robust woman sitting at the desk.  She appeared to be in her late fifties to early sixties, her graying hair pulled tightly in a bun with a pencil sticking out.  As the woman approached the counter, Jim noticed that her long-sleeved floral dress went down to her ankles.  "May I help you, young man?" she asked in a gruff voice.

"Yes, I need to register Jake for kindergarten classes.  We just…" Jim was cut off before he could finish.

"I'm sorry, young man, but his mother and or father needs to come in.  You can't register your brother for them," the receptionist stated.

"He's not my brother, ma'am, he is my son.  My husband and I just adopted him," Jim asserted.

"OH, you're one of them," the receptionist snarled.

"Excuse me?" Zac exasperated.

"Are you his husband?" the lady mocked, using air quotes.

"You have a problem with that?" Zac questioned, raising his voice.

"What if I do?" the receptionist queried.

"Then I wish to speak with your boss and not you," Zac requested.

"And if I don't wish to get him for your kind?" the lady asked defiantly.

By this time, both sides had risen their voices.  The principal came out of his office to see what the commotion was about.  "Gertrude, what is the problem out here?"

The principal was a slightly stocky man who stood almost six feet tall.  He looked to be in his early fifties.  His hair barely touched his shoulders and despite not being that old was completely white.  He also had a long flowing beard.  He was clad in gray slacks, a pink shirt and a gray tie.  Jim did see a matching jacket hanging on the chair in the office he just vacated.

"These two gays…" she started but the principal cut her off.

"You means guys, we don't comment on sexuality here," the principal chastised.

"No, I mean these two gays, they want to enroll this little boy in school.  I told them that his mother and father would need to sign him up," the receptionist clarified.

"Is he the son of either one or both of you?" the principal asked.

"As I started telling Gertrude, we just adopted him.  Here is a copy of the papers filed with the court," Jim replied.

"Gertrude, either register this little boy or clear out your desk.  Either do your job or quit, the option is yours," the principal demanded.  Gertrude grabbed her purse and walked out the door.  "I'm guessing that she decided to quit.  It may take me a while, but I will get your son registered.  Do you mind if I make a quick call for a replacement receptionist first?"

"By all means, you are helping us but you need a receptionist," Zac politely answered.

The principal made a quick phone call explaining the situation, then went back to the front counter, "We won't have a receptionist until tomorrow.  These papers say registration, they look right.  Fill them out and I will get your son in the system as quickly as I can."

"Thank you," Zac said taking the form and a clipboard from the principal.

"Do you mind if I have a chat with your son, to determine if he should do half day or all day classes?" the principal asked.

"What's the difference?  I know it would make things easier for us if he did all day, but my mom will help if you think he's better with half day," Jim questioned.

"Half day is never better, it's just that some children can get by with only half a day.  If you would like your son to attend all day, he will learn more.  What's his name?"

"His name is Jake," Jim answered.

"Hi Jake, my name is Dan Black.  During December, the students call me Danny Claus but the rest of the year I like Dandalf or Mr. Black.  What do you think about going to school?" the principal asked.

"I don't know, I've never been.  Daddy goes to school and I miss him.  If I am going, I may not miss him as much because I will be busy," Jake replied.

"In kindergarten, you will learn some things.  Can you count to ten?"

"One, two, three, four, five, six, seven, eight, nine, ten," Jake answered.

"Someone has been working with you, haven't they?" The principal commented.

"My grandma has while Daddy and Daddy were at school," Jake said with a grin.

"Seems like she is a smart lady getting you ready early.  I see you are wearing cowboy boots. Do you know how to tie shoes?"

"I never tried.  Someone always tied them for me before I got boots," Jake explained.

"Well, that's alright, you will go over that in class.  We will warn you and your dads a week in advance of when you need shoes that tie.  Hopefully, you still have a pair that tie.  After my assessment, I believe that Jake can get away with half a day.  He is a very bright boy.  That said though, if it helps you out, I can enroll him in all day classes," the principal declared.

"And here is the form," Zac stated, handing the clipboard over.

"Thank you, I'll have the receptionist enter the information tomorrow.  If she has any problems, may she call you?"

"Both Jim and my cell phones are listed.  Jim may be better at answering any questions about Jake, though," Zac answered.

The principal shook hands with all three.  Jake felt important when his hand was shaken.  Then the principal apologized again for the hassle they received when they first arrived and he told Jake that he was looking forward to him attending.  Jim put Jake in the truck, then he and Zac got in and they headed to see Dr. Bear.

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.

Also, I have created a mailing list.  If you would like to be added to it to be informed of new submission, please contact me at Zarek Dragon.  Please let me know that you read it on The Story Lovers' Website.