Another Chance - Book Two

By Zarek Dragon

 

Jim called his mom and told her that he was taking Joe out to eat when they got off work. She thanked him for letting her know. After they were done, Jim asked Joe where he wanted to eat. "I didn't bring any money," Joe stated.

"I didn't ask if you have any money, I asked where you want to eat," Jim inquired again.

"I don't know, but wouldn't Mom already have something ready to come out of the oven?" Joe responded.

"Nope, I already called her and said that I was taking you out," Jim confessed.

"You know; you don't have to do this. I understand how you were feeling and I know that you don't blame me," Joe argued.

"This has nothing to do with that. I am proud of how strong you became through everything that happened. I am proud to call you my brother and friend. I just want to treat you to a special meal, so tell me where you want to eat or I'm taking you to McDonald's and getting you a happy meal," Jim said smiling.

"Can we go to Sunset House? I want the fish and chips dinner," Joe asked.

"If that is what you want. Should we get some 'Monsterella' cheese sticks and Texas tooth picks for appetizers?"

"I see that you've either been there or wanted to go there too," Joe smiled.

"Dusty and I stop there after we leave the dojo on Mondays, when I go. Zac's taken me there a few times, too. Think I'm having the buffalo burger," Jim said.

"Technically, I'm the older brother, my birthday comes first. But I feel like you've taken me under your wing as though you are the older one. I can never thank you enough for how you make me feel," Joe said blinking his green eyes at Jim.

"You are only two days shy of being two months older than me, but I was in the family first, so I do kinda feel like the older brother. As for thanking me, you do so in many ways without having to say it. You make me laugh every day. When I hurt, if Zac isn't around, you do the brotherly thing of holding me and trying to comfort me. I should be thanking you for just being my brother," Jim stated as he pulled into the parking lot.

"I could argue about who is the lucky one, but I guess in a way, we are both lucky to have each other," Joe compromised.

"I can accept that," Jim turned off his car and hugged Joe.

As Jim and Joe walked into the restaurant, an elderly man was walking out. Jim overheard the guy make a remark about a couple of faggots. "Hey, that's my brother you're talking about," Jim shouted at him.

The man turned around, "I'm sorry, I thought you two were boyfriends. You don't look like brothers."

"He adopted me," Jim said and then added, "And we left our boyfriends at home."

The man didn't know if Jim was telling the truth or just messing with him so he decided to leave it alone and headed to his car. "I adopted you, huh?" Joe inquired.

"Since you said it first, I thought you would like that," Jim grinned.

"I ever tell you how special you make me feel?" Joe asked.

"All the time, Bro, and I hope that never changes. You are special," Jim stated.

"So are you. Not just anybody would have accepted me two days before Christmas and gone out of their way to make me fit in like you did. You are the best brother a guy could get," Joe claimed with a tear running down his face.

"That wasn't anything special, you needed a family and we were lucky to be the first ones called. Since then, you have brought so much joy into our home. Yes, Mom and I are the lucky ones," Jim shared with a smile. They sat down and ordered their food. The waitress saw that they had been crying and asked if everything was alright.

"Yes, we're fine. Just a little brotherly discussion of who is the luckiest one," Joe said smiling. "These are tears of happiness.

"I see, looks like you both seem happy enough. I wish my brothers got along so great," the waitress looked like she was ready to bawl.

"Are you alright?" Joe asked.

"You want to sit down for a second, we don't mind," Jim agreed.

"I'm fine, but thanks for caring," she said.

They ate their meal, Jim paid giving the waitress a nice tip and they left. Joe couldn't help but think about the waitress and what she said. "Jim, if I ever do anything to make you mad at me, promise that we will talk about it," Joe requested.

"Don't see that happening, but you have my promise. And I just thought of something, you don't need to decide which family you want to be in. You are stuck with us. I wonder if we'll still need to have the hearing in December," Jim cackled like a witch as he said it. That made Joe laugh.

"For the record, I planned to stick with this family. I had made that decision way before this mess we just went through even started. That woman never came to see me and hired someone to put me through hell. No, my mind was made up before we even went to the first hearing, this just made me sure it is the right decision."

"I'm glad," Jim said pulling into the drive.

"Joe, we each received a letter delivered by a deputy shortly after I got home," Heather stated when they walked in the door.

"OH, that sounds serious, who from?" Joe asked.

"They came from Judge Dillon's office. She wants to see us first thing Monday morning," she informed him as she handed Joe his unopened letter.

"We were just talking about that on the way home," Jim announced. "And don't think you're going to court without me."

"I suspected that and already called leaving a message at the school that you both would be late that day. I suspect that this will be quick, so you might miss your first two classes."

"Hmmm, that would be Calculus and Spanish for me," Jim said.

The weekend went by as usual. Joe did call Buster and asked if he would be interested in helping him pick out his next vehicle. Buster was excited that Joe even asked. Monday morning came and Zac walked in. "Don't even think that you're going to court without me. Mom called the school only to realize that today is Labor Day," he declared.

"Honey, you are a part of this family," Heather assured him. "Today is Labor Day? Why would they have court today?" Heather called the courthouse and nobody answered. She called Ryan to see if he knew what was going on.

"I called Judge Dillon on Friday and she insists that she wants to see us today. At least it won't interfere with our work schedule or the boys' school," Ryan informed her.

"We'll see you there," Heather confirmed as she hung up the phone.

Everyone pulled into the parking lot and headed to the courthouse. Judge Dillon's bailiff was waiting at the door and escorted them to her courtroom. "I'm sorry if I ruined any holiday plans, but I thought if you came in today, it might be easier on you," Dillon said as they walked into the room.

"No, you didn't ruin any plans," Heather insisted.

"Glad to hear it. Reason that I called the three of you in; Joe, you no longer have a decision to make. Not sure if I should say sorry about your biological parents or not, I believe you wrote them off December of last year."

"Yes ma'am, I wish I could say that I'll miss them, but that would be a lie. Didn't wish for them to die, but I'm not sad about it," Joe told her.

"I totally understand. Normally, adoptions take a year to finalize to make sure both child and parent or parents are a good fit. And if there are any existing children, to make sure they get along. It also gives the birth parents a chance to decide if they really want to give the child away. The latter is no longer an issue. From what I've seen with you in this courtroom, I don't believe we need to wait and not just your caseworker, but everyone at CPS believes this is the right decision." Joe started tearing up. "Young man, I just need to ask you one question. Once this is final, it can't be undone unless the family starts abusing you. Do you wish to be a permanent part of the Bolt family?"

"From the first day I met this family, I have wished to be a part of it," Joe was crying and Jim moved to hold him.

"Mrs. Bolt, you have shown time and time again that you love this young man and are willing to protect him. Do I need to ask?"

"Your Honor, Joe has become a big part in this family. My boys can tell you that life isn't perfect, but I think we do a good job helping, loving and caring for each other. If he would have been pulled from this family, it would have been worse than anything. Yes, I believe he belongs in this family," Heather declared.

"While I don't need an answer from you, I can see your answer with how you moved to comfort his tears," Dillon said looking at Jim. Jim smiled. "Once I can record this procedure, which will be tomorrow. Joe, your adoption will be finalized and you will be a permanent part of the Bolt family. Last question remaining, do you wish to retain the Walker last name or would you prefer Bolt?"

"I wish to go with the last name of Bolt, ma'am," Joe replied with a big grin.

"Very well then. As of the second of September in the year of our Lord 2014, Joseph Charles Walker, you are a permanent member of the Bolt family and your last name will be changed to Bolt. I will send you a copy of everything so you can get all of the proper documentation."

"Thank you, Your Honor," Ryan stated.

"And I am so happy that my last case is this one. As I have stated, I do regret some of my decisions, but I am very pleased with this one. After everything is properly recorded and filed, I will be officially retired. Since there is nothing on the dockets and the election is only two months away, the Judicial Board would like to wait before making you the official judge in this seat, Mr. Grayson. If, however, something should need immediate attention before then, they are hoping that you would be willing to step in immediately."

"Yes, I understand, and I would just need to let the law firm be aware that I can no longer work for them. Aside from that, I am as ready as I can be without any practical experience," Ryan stated.

"Just use your best judgment. You'll make mistakes, we're all human after all. And just out of curiosity, how would you have handled this case differently?"

"I'm a little biased for this case, so it's hard for me to really say. I believe you did an excellent job, and while anybody dying is sad, even those that wanted to hurt a young man like Joe, I am extremely happy with how this turned out and I don't think anyone could have done a better job than you did."

"Yes, I think you will fill this position nicely. Good luck and if you ever have any questions, I'll only be a phone call away," Dillon said as she headed for her chambers. The bailiff escorted the family to the door.

"Jackson said that was probably going to happen. He has the hands setting up tents and everything for Labor Day. He said he's paying double salary to anyone working but figured you boys would want to celebrate so he didn't mention it," Ryan informed them.

"He's right, but I want to celebrate with him, can we Mom?" Joe asked.

"He is a part of this family, too. Let's go home, change to go riding and head out," Heather suggested. The boys got excited.

As Heather's car pulled into the parking lot, they noticed how full it was. Jackson was beside the car when it stopped in a spot. He opened Joe's door, "Congratulations, I am so happy for you. Ryan told me what you said before he left and I almost wanted to cry. You are a very big part of this family, not just the Bolt's but the ranch family as well."

"Thank you, Jackson. You've always made me feel that way. That's why I wanted to include you in celebrating," Joe stated as he hugged Jackson.

"Gee, I just gained a son permanently, don't I get a hug?" Heather quipped.

"Milady, you make me almost wish I were straight. You deserve more than just a hug, but we'll keep it at that," Jackson joked.

Jim came around the car and Jackson gave him a hug as well. "It looks like you're busy," Jim commented.

"We sure are, almost every horse I own is being used. We're having trouble keeping the hotdogs and hamburgers stocked. They are selling as fast as they can come off the grill. Matt and Gina are on the trail. They asked if you or Zac were working today."

"I should saddle up Silver and go find them," Zac said. Jim gave him a dirty look. "But we're here to celebrate Joe's adoption being final, so I won't."

"So, you don't have a horse for Mom or I to use?" Joe solemnly asked.

"Wish I did, but the only horses not being used right now are Silver and Gold," Jackson responded, "that can be ridden, that is."

"You can use this one and I'm sure Jacob won't mind giving up his," Elizabeth said as she dismounted.

"Looks like you're getting the hang of riding," Jim complimented Elizabeth.

"Thank you, and did I hear right, someone's adoption was finalized?" Elizabeth answered.

"Yes mine," Joe quickly responded.

"Then I insist on giving up my horse," Elizabeth was as giddy as a school girl and hugged Joe.

"Whatever you charge them for these horses, I will cover," Jacob stated as he dismounted. "Least I can do to help them celebrate."

Jackson laughed, "Then you'll really like this bill. You should remember Joe, he's the one who trained Jared. And last Christmas, I gave Heather, Jim and Joe's mom, a free pass to ride whenever she wants."

Jacob laughed when Jackson told him, "Well, I can definitely afford that."

"Thank you both so much. You have no idea how much this means to us," Heather almost wanted to hug Elizabeth. Jim and Zac ran to get Silver and Gold ready to ride while everyone was talking.

"Think nothing of it. We've been here since nine and I'm ready for a hamburger, if I can find one," she laughed. Jackson disappeared.

"Jared and Brock are out riding somewhere. Figure we can spend time around here until they are done. Those two have grown very close," Jacob stated.

"How are you and Jackson doing?" Heather was curious.

"I am so glad that I finally met him. He has been the best brother ever…" Jacob started. Joe shook his head and Heather smiled. "Guessing that you think your brother is the best," Jacob said smiling. Joe smiled.

"Day I brought Joe home, he was a mess. I am so proud of how Jim treated him from the moment they met," Heather proudly proclaimed.

"It was two days before Christmas and he ran out to make sure I had a present under the tree," Joe smiled but had a tear from thinking how special that day really was.

"Okay, maybe Jackson has been the second best brother," Jacob conceded.

"What's that? Do I need to work on being a better brother?" Jackson asked as he walked up with two plates. He handed them to Jacob and Elizabeth.

"Joe was telling me how great a brother Jim has been," Jacob explained.

"Well, if I'm second to him, I'm doing a mighty fine job then. That boy thinks the world of Joe," Jackson sniffled a little.

"And if you ask him, I'm the best brother, but I can't compare in the least," Joe said.

"Honey, just being you, for Jim you are the best brother. Do you honestly believe he loves you any less than you do him?" Heather asked.

"Hard to really say, I think if the roles were reversed, I'd treat him the same as he treats me, but thankfully I'm not sharing my birth mother with him. I'm just saying, he has made sure that I damn well know I belong in this family. Sorry for the curse word Mom, but seemed appropriate," Joe offered.

"Yes, well this time, I'll let you get by with it," Heather said smiling.

"What's up," Jim said as he rode Gold over. Zac was right behind him.

"Just discussing who the best brother is," Jacob replied.

"Did anyone mention my brother?" Jim asked with a smile.

"See, I told you," Joe laughed.

"Joe said that you would say he is, but listening to how he speaks of you, we think you won," Elizabeth responded.

"But let me tell you how great he is. Joe is the best brother ever," Jim tried to persuade.

"Let's just go riding," Heather offered, "I have the best boys, final."

As they rode, Zac commented about his mom not being home. He figured that she was here somewhere with Vince. As they rode, Jim heard a familiar voice, "Hey Homos!" Heather started looking agitated. "Oh, sorry Mrs. Bolt," the voice said.

"What's up straight boy?" Zac replied.

"Was hoping to have one of my two favorite guides but Jackson explained why you weren't here yet. Congrats, Joe."

"Yeah, Joe's too important for me not to have been there," Zac stated.

"Do you boys always talk like this?" Heather questioned.

"Only when it's just us, usually. Matt has been a friend since my dad left. When I came out, Mom was first and he was the second person I told," Zac explained.

"Yeah, if I didn't know Zac was alright with it, I would never call him a homo or fag," Matt added.

"You've never called me a fag," Zac laughed.

"Oh right, Fag, I never did," Matt said laughing.

"As long as neither of you mind, I guess it's alright, but I'm not comfortable with it," Heather stated.

"I understand, and if I see you with them, I won't do it. The reverent way I hear Jim talk about you, and Zac backs him up, I would never disrespect you," Matt apologized. "Especially in front of them. They might beat me up."

"That's good to hear," Heather smiled.

"By the way, I saw your mom and future step-dad. He's definitely a step up from the guy who left you," Matt offered.

"Isn't he? I am so blessed with the best boyfriend and now getting an awesome step-dad," Zac became excited.

"Wait, Gina has the best boyfriend," Matt stated.

"Conceited much?" Heather raised an eyebrow.

"It's not conceit when it's fact," Matt said.

"I do think I have the best boyfriend. Matt treats me like a princess and always has. Even when I do something wrong, he treats me like it was an accident and not my fault. Every weekend he brings me here. He didn't even like horseback riding at first, just did it because I love it."

"OK, you are a good boyfriend, still not sure if you are the best," Heather stated.

"Well, I try to be, can we at least say that?" Matt asked.

"Yes, from what Gina says, you are trying," Heather smiled wondering if Matt would pick up the double meaning.

Matt shook Zac's hand and started to leave. "Hey, what's this? Zac asked opening a hundred-dollar bill.

"Tip you or Jim would have gotten if you took us out. Use it to help celebrate," Matt answered as he rode off before Zac could return it.

"You need to give that back to him," Heather demanded.

"I can try but he won't accept it. He usually gives me twenty to fifty dollars a week. When Jim was with me that first Saturday, he slipped me a seventy-five-dollar tip."

"He gave me fifty, but then I was like a side-kick and wasn't expecting any," Jim stated.

"His family has money. Not sure if they are as rich as Brock's but they have money."

"I know he seems generous with it. And he tries not to be flashy when he hands it," Jim added.

"If that is the case, it's up to you if you want to go someplace when we're done riding," Heather gave in.

"Joe, where would you like to eat?" Zac asked.

"Depends, are we inviting your mom, Vince and Jackson to join us? I'd really like to, but not sure how far that money will go with everyone," Joe responded.

"Whatever the bill comes to over the hundred, I will pick up," Heather offered.

"Did I ever tell you that you are an awesome mom, Mom?" Jim asked. Joe and Zac agreed.

"Yes, you have," Heather smiled. They continued their ride until they heard voices.

"Marilyn, do you really want to wait until October to get married?" Vince asked.

"Oh Vinnie, I'd marry you today if I could but the venue is already booked clear up until we have it scheduled," Marilyn responded.

"Jackson said that we can do the wedding here. We can either use the barn, set up by the lake, or there are some nice fields that would work," Vince suggested.

"By the lake would be nice. When can we do it? I was planning to order the invitations tomorrow."

"Good, that means they haven't gone out yet," Vince smiled. "What do you think of the twentieth? It gives everyone a chance to get their invitation and get here, maybe barely, but still."

"I think I can't wait for the twentieth. I'll write a short note explaining the short notice and I'm sure everyone will understand."

Zac started cheering when he heard this. And the rest of the group rode out to the clearing. "I take it that you approve," Vince asked.

"Hell yeah, I approve. Can I start calling you Dad yet?" Zac was almost teary-eyed.

"Any time that you want. I may not be your real dad, but I think of you as my son already. I rarely get choked up, but I am getting the greatest wife and son I could ask for," Vince wanted to turn, but in this case, he wasn't ashamed about getting emotional.

"No, you may not be my real dad, but he was a jerk that left us around four years ago. I can't think of anyone who could be better than you to marry my mom," Zac said as he dismounted and rushed to his mother and Vince.

"Hope I never have to discipline you, but if I ever do, don't pull the 'You're not my dad' card, please," Vince suggested.

"Well, I am a senior in high school, and seventeen, so I won't say the situation won't arise, but I'm guessing if any do, it'll be few. And as far as I am concerned, you are my dad," Zac chimed. "We're planning to go eat to celebrate Joe's adoption being final once we finish riding. Joe wants both of you there to help celebrate."

"Fine, but I'm paying," Vince said.

"The friend that I take out riding on Saturdays gave me money to do it, but Joe's worried that it won't be enough. My other mom," Zac said hugging Heather, "already agreed to pay the balance."

"Would you be upset if I did? After all, you just gained a child," Vince smiled.

"I won't argue but you're about to gain a wife and child. I just know Joe wants you there but was worried, so I offered to make him happy," Heather agreed.

"I feel really lucky right now. Everyone in this family loves me," Joe smiled.

"That, we do Joe, that we do," Vince assured him.

As they finished chatting, Zac, Vince and Marilyn mounted up and they headed back to the barns. Everyone took care of their own mount and Jackson walked up. "Did you have a nice ride?" he asked.

"Best ride ever and Zac's mom agreed to get married here," Joe blabbed.

"Is that right? Which location and when?" Jackson almost whistled a happy tune.

"I'm thinking by the lake maybe close to sunset would be picturesque," Marilyn stated, "and we're hoping to maybe do it on the twentieth."

"Zac, make sure you or I put that in the planner," Jackson said, "I'll have professionals set it up. You want the lake as a background or beside the altar?"

"I'm thinking as the background would be awesome," Marilyn stated.

"Excellent. We'll close that trail for the day so they can set up and not be disturbed."

"Jackson, one more thing. Matt gave me money to help celebrate Joe's adoption being final. Joe wants you to join us. Can you get away long enough?"

"Sure, Josh has been running this most of the day anyway so I can greet guests. Let me inform him that I'll be gone and we can be on our way," Jackson was almost teary-eyed again. He couldn't believe how much these boys have come to affect him.

Everyone was enjoying themselves and the restaurant they chose had a dance floor. Everyone, including Vince took time to dance with Joe. If he didn't know any better, Joe would have thought he was dying with how he was treated. The waitress came up after everyone was done eating, "Would anyone like a dessert? I won't mention my name, but someone told the manager what brought you here, and though it's not your birthday, he says that it's close enough, so Joe gets his dessert on the house."

Joe asked for cherry pie so everyone else did also. When the bill was brought to the table, Jackson grabbed it. "I'm paying for that," Vince stated.

"No, I've got this and if you argue with me, I'll fire you," Jackson chuckled.

"Would you, really?" Vince asked.

"Hell, I don't know that I can fire anybody. I hope I'm never given a reason to find out," Jackson admitted.

"In that case, on Sunday, Jim and I are going to make out all day and not get our work done," Zac teased.

"You do that and I may turn both of you over my knee," Vince averred.

"But you're not my dad," Jim said.

"Do you call Marilyn Mom?"

"Well yeah, but…" Jim started.

"Close enough," Vince stated. Everyone laughed.

"Here's the hundred that Matt gave toward this," Zac offered Jackson.

"Nonsense, you keep it and you, Jim and Joe can go out sometime," Jackson suggested.

Once the bill was paid, Jackson headed back to the ranch. Vince and Marilyn got in his car and drove home. Everyone else got in Heather's car and headed to her house. Jim let Joe sit up front since they were celebrating him. Besides, he got to sit in back with Zac.

"Too bad Jackson is gay and has Ryan. He'd make an awesome dad," Jim kidded on the way home.

"Yes, I think he would, but he's way too young for me. He's only seven years older than you," Heather chuckled.

As they continued home, Heather almost didn't see the guy running the red light. She tried swerving to avoid an accident, but to no avail. The guy got out of his car and asked if everyone was alright. Once everyone said that they were, he apologized and said that his brakes failed. Heather took a look at him. "Jon?" she asked.

"Do you know me? My name is indeed Jon, Jon Bolt," the man replied.

"No way, that's my dad's name," Jim said, "Are you him manifested in human form? You look just like my dad."

"Not sure what you mean, I was born and raised in Montana in a little town called Roberts. Up until earlier today, I've lived there."

"Well, up until May of last year, I lived a little less than thirteen miles from there. We had a ranch just outside of Red Lodge," Jim reported.

"I know where that's at. Most of my family lived there at one point or another. Let me call the police and we can talk some more while we wait," Jon suggested.

Jim looked at his mom, "Do you think he's related to us in any way?"

"Sounds like he might be, but I don't know," Heather said trying to get the airbag out of her face. She got out of the car to examine it and noticed that her right front fender took the worst of it. Had she not turned, Joe's door would have. She also noticed that the tire was flat.

When Jon got off the phone he walked back over. "Police should be here any minute. I am so sorry for causing this. I'll pay to have both vehicles towed and get you a cab after the police are done," Jon was ever so apologetic.

"So, what brought you to Cody?" Zac asked.

"It's weird actually, and you might think I'm making this up," Jon said.

"Believe me, we've been through weird and unbelievable," Jim stated. Everyone nodded their head.

"You said that I look like your father," Jon said looking at Jim. "I had a dream last night that someone that looked almost like me was talking to me. Said his name was Jon. I couldn't believe it." Jim and Heather got weak in the knees and almost fainted.

"That was Jim's dad's name. He has visited Jim and Joe in dreams just a week ago," Zac explained.

"Wait, what?" Jon was surprised. "This dream was so vivid. He told me to come to Cody, Wyoming and I would run into my destiny. I didn't think he meant literally, but here it seems to have happened."

"Question is, what destiny? What's your angle?" Joe was skeptical.

"I don't know, but maybe if we are related somehow, we could at least be friends," Jon offered.

Police showed up and took statements from Jon and Heather. Both stories seemed to agree from each of their prospective. The officer wrote Jon a ticket as he clearly admitted being at fault. Once the vehicles were towed, the officer left. "Would you like for me to call a cab or someone for you? I'll pay for it," Jon offered.

"No problem, my mom and future step-dad are on their way back here," Zac replied.

"You just got into town, do you have a place to stay? If you are family, I have a couch that you can at least spend the night on," Heather suggested.

"I appreciate the offer, but we barely know each other. I think I should stay in a hotel or motel at least until we know more," Jon explained.

"That probably is a good idea," Joe said. For some reason, he didn't feel comfortable with this guy.

Marilyn and Vince showed up and Heather and the boys piled in. "Would you like for me to drop you off somewhere?" Vince offered Jon.

"Appreciate the offer, but I can call a cab," Jon replied.

"That's silly, I have room for one more," Vince stated.

"If you don't mind," Jon started, "I just booked a room at the Irma Hotel."

"Sure, we can drop you off there," Vince said. Jon got in the SUV and they drove to the hotel.

After they were on their way home, Vince commented on how familiar he looked. Joe said that something about him didn't seem right. What are the chances that he really is related and that was just an accident? "Once you have a copy of the police report, I can do a background check, if you like," Vincent suggested.

"Please, if nothing else, it can help figure out if he is related to Jim. As far as I know, my husband had no siblings and his only cousin now resides in our old house. This just seems too surreal," Heather was a bit flushed as she spoke.

Once she had a copy of the police report, Heather handed it to Vincent. Within minutes he was able to tell her that nothing suspicious came up. He said that a more thorough research into him would take time, and proving relationship without DNA might be inconclusive, but he would try.

Jon called Heather out of the blue but no one was home. He left a message that he found her name in the phonebook and wanted to let her know that her car was repaired, paid for and waiting for her to pick up at her earliest convenience. Joe felt uneasy that he now knew not only a phone number but their address was listed.

"I know that he's a stranger, but he might be family," Jim assured him.

"Maybe it's because of what we just went through, but I just don't trust him. If Mom hadn't turned, he would have hit my door," Joe stated. "I can't put my finger on it but I feel like something isn't right."

Jim called up Zarek and shared what he could about Jon. He asked if there were any chance of him being related. "It's very slim at best. I shared with you about our grandfathers and great grandfathers. If he is related it would stem from before them. How old is he?"

"I'm guessing around forty to forty-five. He looks close to my mom's age," Jim replied.

"And is he from Red Lodge?" Zarek queried.

"No, he said that he was born in Roberts. You know where that is?"

"I do. When fourth-great-grandfather Jacob established the ranch in 1872, he came from the area where Roberts is now. Red Lodge wasn't a city yet. In fact, the land belonged to the Crow Indians. He had become friends with them and he helped them trade goods that they made for things that they needed. The ranch didn't really become a ranch until after Montana was established in 1889. His great-grandson was our great-grandfather Jeremy. As you know, he only had two sons, and they only had one child each, so unless Great-Great-Grandfather had a sibling, this Jon Bolt would be from a branch further down the tree. Isn't Dusty's Uncle Darry a genealogist or something?"

"Yes, but he's home in California right now," Jim answered.

"OK, I'll see what I can find out. Dad may know more," Zarek said as he hung up.

"See, I knew he was faking," Joe was adamant.

"He never claimed to be a relative, but if his last name is really Bolt, what are the chances?" Jim responded.

"I bet he's not. He was probably hired to take me out if I didn't get scared into going to Michigan," Joe hypothesized.

"I think you're just getting paranoid, or I hope so. As long as I'm around, no one is going to hurt you, Bro," Jim gave Joe a big hug,

"Except for you, you're squishing me," Joe joked.

Jim kissed Joe on the forehead and let him go.

"Vince, can I see you a minute?" Jackson asked.

"What's up?" Vince inquired.

"Why are you searching into Heather's deceased husband? If you have a good reason, I'm all for it, but I am curious,"

Vince smiled and told him about the guy showing up. He said that the guy didn't claim to be her husband, didn't even claim to be a relative. He told Jackson everything that he knew about the guy.

"Sounds like a valid reason to me. I was just worried that maybe there was something strange happening and I don't want to see either of them get hurt," Jackson stated.

"Same here, that's why I promised Heather this extensive search. So far, he seems to have had a decent school record and even served in the National Guard with an exemplary record. I see no reason to consider him a threat, now I am just trying to find out if he's any relation. He looks like an older version of Jim."

"Find out what you can, and have some men keep an eye on him. I'll pay their wages. Any idea why he's in town?"

"He claims that Heather's husband appeared in a dream and told him to come," Vince responded.

"Where's he staying, I think I'd like to go visit him," Jackson said. Vince told him where he had dropped him off.

Jackson went to the Irma Hotel and asked for Jon Bolt's room. The clerk called up and asked if it were alright to give the room number and not knowing Jackson, Jon said that he'd come down. He didn't know what to expect so if Jackson were up to no good, it would be more public.

Jon came down and met Jackson, "Can I help you?"

"Do you drink?" Jackson asked.

"What? Occasionally, but I wasn't the night I hit that lady's car if that's what this is about." Jon said confused.

"Naw, I just thought we'd drink while we talk," Jackson said.

"Bit early to be drinking, what if I buy you lunch instead," Jon countered.

"I'll buy, you want to eat here or go somewhere?" Jackson offered.

"Here is fine, no offense mister, but I don't know you to be going somewhere with you," Jon was being cautious.

"Totally understandable, but the name is Jackson. Never did like that mister stuff," Jackson laughed.

They both ordered the house special and started talking. "So what do you know about Heather and her two boys?" Jackson asked.

"No more than they shared the night of the accident," Jon said. "Are you an investigator or something?"

"Just a really close friend," Jackson insisted. "The boys work for me and are very much like sons."

"The one looks like he could be my son. I've never been married, and don't believe in pre-marital sex, so I know he's not."

"No, but you look an awful lot like his father."

"That's what he said, any chance that we are related? Can we go somewhere to have DNA drawn or something? I would like to know. I have no close relatives that I'm aware of and think it would be cool to know if we are."

Jackson laughed, "I was trying to figure a way to steal your glass or silverware to get your DNA. Jon, I hope you're on the up-and-up because I like you."

"I'll be glad to assist in any way. The accident was just an accident. Mechanic said that I must have waited too long to refill my fluid and got air in the lines. That's why my brakes failed. I take full responsibility. As for looking like her dead husband, I can't help that, I was born this way."

"I believe you. We've already run a background check. You're no saint, but you have a fairly good record. You working anywhere yet?" Jackson asked.

"No, not sure that I'm staying. Only came here because I had a dream that this other Jon told me that I should. He didn't really tell me much as to why."

"So if you don't stay, then what?" Jackson inquired.

"No idea, like I said, I have no family that I am aware of. Buried my father a couple days before I left. I own no property, so who knows."

"Well, let's get you figured out and maybe I can help you," Jackson offered.

Jon agreed to ride with Jackson to have his DNA tested. His car was still being repaired as he told the body shop to finish Heather's before they even started on his. Jackson called Heather and told her what he was doing. He asked if she could bring Jim so the lab would have something with which to compare. Heather agreed.

At the lab, Jon was surprised that all they really needed was a swab of the inside of his cheek. He had seen it on TV but thought that was just TV and there was really more to it. Heather and Jim came in shortly after he was done. As they were swabbing Jim's cheek, Jon started making conversation, "How's the car?"

"Can't even tell that it was in an accident, yours?" Heather responded.

"Still waiting, told them that yours had to be fixed first. Didn't want you without a vehicle for too long when it was my fault."

"That was nice of you, but I had a rental that my insurance was covering. Did they find out why your brakes failed?"

"Apparently, I let the fluid get too low. I filled it that day, but from what I understand, there was air in the lines. I know all this must seem weird, I know it's weird for me. I left Montana thinking I had no family left and then run into you. I mean, we aren't related except maybe by marriage, but I kinda hope that I am with your son. Sorry, did that sound as creepy as I think it did?"

"Maybe a little, but I think I know what you mean," Heather chuckled.

After the nurse finished with Jim, they said that the results could take a week. Jackson asked if there was any way to expedite it and they apologized saying that they send the samples to Cheyenne and Cheyenne will email the results back. Jim joked in his head that he didn't know Dusty's girlfriend did that.

"I just ate lunch with Mr. Jackson, but if you two would like some ice cream, it's my treat." Jim chuckled when he saw Jackson's face.

"Told you that I don't like that mister stuff, it's just Jackson, or you can call me Jackson Sprayberry. No Mister," Jackson averred.

"So sorry, Jackson," Jon apologized.

Heather pulled Jackson aside, "You ate lunch with him? Do you think he's safe to let Jim be around him?

"Put it this way, I ate lunch so I could swipe his glass. He offered to come here because he wants answers, too. I think he is being legit," Jackson informed her.

When Heather returned, she accepted. Jim was a little surprised especially with how cautious she was being. While they ate ice cream, Jon wrote on a napkin what he knew about his family tree. Jim pulled out his phone and started researching the names he listed. "You know an Isaac Bolt?" Jim asked. "You don't have him listed, but according to Ancestry, he would be your…"

"Fourth-great-grandfather, I forgot about him. He had two sons, Elijah and Jacob. Elijah was almost named Esau but Isaac's wife refused to call him that. She had no problem with a Biblical name but thought with him being Isaac, people would get the wrong idea. Isaac's wife died in 1867, and Isaac died, I believe in 1872. Jacob moved away and we believe he was killed by the Crow Indians. Elijah had a son named Ely. When they thought that Jacob was killed, Ely and his wife had a son shortly after and named him Jacob. As you can see, he was my great grandfather and you see the rest of my lineage." Jon said.

"Something tells me that there will be some familial proof in the DNA results. Jacob was my husband's lineage," Heather explained. Then Jim told them what Zarek had told him about Jacob.

"So then, we are related, what exactly does that make me? Fifth cousin once removed? Sixth cousin?" Jon asked.

"I'm not sure what you would be, other than a distant relative. Joe thinks you were out to hurt him, but if you knew what we just went through, you'd understand," Jim said.

"I had no intention, is he the boy that was in the front seat? He kept watching me the whole time. Tell him that I'm so sorry."

"Nope, you tell him. You are family and I know enough about you to trust you. You can sleep on the couch if you like," Heather offered.

"Or, he can sleep in my bed and I'll share Joe's while he's here," Jim suggested.

"How long do you plan to stay?" Heather asked.

"I have no idea. I was planning to give Cody a week, but that was before I wrecked my car. Now I have to wait for it to be fixed and I discovered that I do have family here. I'd like to maybe buy a house and get to know you better. This is almost too much, let me pay the bill and step outside for some air," Jon requested.

"You step outside, I'll pay the bill," Heather offered.

"But I invited you."

"Tell you what, I'll pay this bill, then we can go to your hotel so you can check out. Once done there, we can stop and get groceries for whatever you want to eat and you can pay," Heather insisted.

"I don't know what to say," Jon declared.

"Just say yes. My boyfriend's mom is a realtor and can help you find a place. She lives across the street from us," Jim said smiling.

"In that case, yes, it sounds like a plan. I'll be outside when you're ready."

At the grocery store, Heather was pushing the cart. "Does everyone like steaks?" Jon asked.

"I think most people do," Heather replied.

"I wonder if this store has 'em, we used to get steaks up in Montana and they were from Jackson, Mississippi. Can't believe how fresh they tasted."

"You mean the ones marked Jackson Meats?" Heather asked.

"Yeah, those are the ones," Jon was excited.

"I hate to tell you this, but they don't come from Mississippi," Heather informed him.

"Are they from another Jackson?" Jon queried.

"You met him. He sells cows to the slaughter house and they put them out as Jackson Meats. They wanted to use Sprayberry Meats, but Jackson nixed the idea," Jim laughed.

"Seriously? He offered to help me find a job, but I didn't know what he was referring to. I don't know anything about slaughter houses," Jon stated.

"He doesn't own the slaughter house, he owns a rather large ranch and just supplies the beef for the slaughter house. He also has many connections, so whatever you're interested in doing, he can help open doors," Jim explained. "You'll like Jackson."

"I already do, not like you like your boyfriend, I'm not gay or anything, but Jackson seems like a nice guy," Jon stated.

"Are you against gay people?" Jim asked.

"No, they are just people with a different sexual preference than me, but they are people. I don't know why some people have to hate people who are slightly different."

"Well said, so do you think my mom is pretty?"

"James Patrick!" Heather snapped. Jon was blushing slightly. "I am so sorry for him asking you that."

"No apology necessary. I do think you are attractive and if it weren't for having the same name as your deceased husband, I would probably have asked you out. I think that would feel too weird for both of us, though," Jon admitted.

"Yes, it probably would. And you look like my late husband, so while I think you are handsome, I don't feel the same attraction as I did for him."

"Well, there goes that idea," Jim pouted.

"You wanting a father?" Heather asked.

"Not so much, I have fond memories of Dad but I will be eighteen eventually and will be living with Zac. Joe will eventually move out and I don't want you to be alone," Jim stated.

"Honey, I won't be alone. I may have that house all to myself, but you, Joe, Zac, Marilyn and Vince will make sure that I always have someone to be with," Heather assured him.

After checking out at the grocery store, they headed for the house. Jon whistled when he saw the size of it. As they walked in, Kunoichi looked at Jon and then jumped on him, trying to lick his face. "Get down, girl. Zac and I are the only ones you're allowed to do that to. And maybe Joe."

Joe gave a leery look at Jon, "Why did you try to kill me?"

"I am so sorry Joe for making you feel that way. It wasn't intentional and I understand some things have happened to make you feel that way. I am really, really sorry."

"I guess, so who are you?" Joe was blunt. He hadn't totally decided if Jon's excuse was true, but since the dogs seem to trust him, he would try.

"We haven't totally figured out what the relationship is called, but my many great-grandfather was Jim's many great-grandfather only one more great, if that makes any sense."

"So to simplify things, you do have a common ancestor just a generation difference," Joe stated.

"Yeah, something like that," Jon chuckled.

"Jon's going to stay with us until he can find a place of his own. I offered him my bed hoping you'd let me share yours while he's here."

"That's fine," Joe said. Jon sat down and both dogs sat beside him. "The dogs seem to like you," Joe commented.

"Dogs are very intelligent. I know you are still leery, but I don't know how to convince you except by giving you time to realize."

"So what caused you to hit our car?" Joe asked.

Jon sighed. He was tired of going over this. "According to the mechanic, he got air in his brake line. It really was an accident, Joe," Heather explained. Jon felt relieved not having to explain again.

"I'm sorry for not trusting you. I guess you're alright," Joe stated. He felt better after hearing his mom explain it.

"No apology necessary. Jim didn't mention what you've been through but that you've been through something to make you leery. Can't say that I totally understand because I wasn't there, but I do understand that you have your reasons."

"I like when people admit that they don't know how I feel. Sometimes, I don't know how I feel so how can they? So, tell me about your dream that brought you here."

"I'm not really sure if I understand it, but I think maybe it was caused by me burying my father. I spent the entire next day trying an ancient ritual trying to contact him. Holy Crap!!!" Jon exclaimed. He was white as if he just saw a ghost.

"What's wrong?" Jim asked.

"That man in the picture above the fireplace, is he your father? He is the Jon that came to see me. How? I've never seen him before the dream, but he looks just like him," Jon was a bit nervous. This really eased Joe's worries.

"Yes, that is my dad. He's visited Joe and I in our dreams and told us things that make us believe he really visited," Jim explained.

"He wants me here for some reason. As I said at the accident, he said that I would run into my destiny. And no Jim, I don't think he wants me to marry your mom," Jon smiled at that. "Maybe it has to do with what Joe went through before."

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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