Date: Wed, 22 Nov 2017 21:02:53 +0000
From: Sonny Malone <rhyolite221@outlook.com>
Subject: Uncle Rick's Rhyolite Ranch Chapter 14

This following is a work of fiction.  Any resemblance to persons living or
dead is purely a coincidence.  No resemblance (s) of any actual person or
character or act is intended. While there is no sexual contact in this
story, please be aware of the rules in your community for reading this or
other stories on Nifty. If reading such is illegal where you reside of you
are not of legal age, please go no further.

This work of fiction is the property of the author, Sonny Malone and should
not be reposted or reproduced without his permission.  Email always welcome
and should be addressed to rhyolite221@outlook.com

Copyright (c) 2017

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Uncle Rick's Rhyolite Ranch

Chapter 14

The deep summer-green leaves of the maple, oak, and elm trees transformed
into variegated browns, brilliant yellows, and bright oranges during the
month of October.  The turning of the leaves was a notice from Mother
Nature for farmers to plant their winter crops.  Uncle Rick, Henry, Travis,
and Raul worked together to sow winter rye, buckwheat, and sorghum in the
fields.  Daniel and Jason planted onions, garlic, broad beans, spinach,
carrots, and other plants in the greenhouse.

Cody, Erik, and Tony continued their diligent studying and with Uncle
Rick's tutoring, they all received straight "A"s on their first report
cards.  Tony always had pretty good grades in school but having his own
personal tutor made a big difference.  When he showed Uncle Rick his first
report card he made sure to give him a big hug of appreciation for his time
and work to help him be a better student.

Brandon, Mario and Maria stayed busy looking for potential locations,
perfecting recipes, which everyone loved eating afterwards, and developing
a complete and appetizing menu for their future restaurant.

On the evening of October 29th an early winter storm hit the region hard.
For everyone it was a noisy and restless night.  Cody, Erik and Tony
cuddled extra close as high winds with gusts up to 70-miles per hour
howled.  Branches and leaves of some of the more vulnerable trees were torn
away from their more formidable trunks. Temperatures dropped from the mid
eighties to the mid thirties.  The storm caused only minor damage to the
shingle roof of an old equipment shed that was no longer being used.  The
other buildings on both the Sanchez and Rhyolite Ranches were designed to
withstand much stronger winds.  Travis and Raul were thankful for the new
shutters protecting the windows on their home on the ridgeline from the
100-mile per hour gusts reached at the higher elevation.

Brandon was awake before sunrise and discovered the power had failed
sometime in the night.  He slipped on a warm coat and went outside to the
auxiliary backup generator located in an enclosed cabinet on the side of
the house.  Brandon managed to get to the generator room even though the
chilly wind was still blowing and strong gusts fought against him.  He
turned the generator starter key and the engine immediately roard to life.
Brandon flipped a breaker switch, feeding electricity to the house.  When
he came back in the house the entire ranch family, dressed in pajamas and
robes, sleepily greeted him.  No one had slept well during the raucous
storm.

Uncle Rick looked at the thermometer mounted on the kitchen wall.  It read
40-degrees.  "Brrr!  No wonder it feels cold in here.  Let's get a fire
going."

Cody, Erik and Daniel put on coats and gloves, and went to the lumber pile
to bring back a load of firewood to burn.  Uncle Rick had a fire started
with the wood that was in the fireplace bin.  Within minutes a big fire was
burning in the fireplace, warming the house.  Brandon turned on the coffee
pot while Mario turned on a stove burner to heat up water in a teakettle.
In a few minutes those who drank coffee filled their cups.  The younger
boys drank hot chocolate to warm their insides.

Brandon and Mario agreed a nice warm breakfast would help wake everyone.
Mario offered to make an Italian sausage and spinach frittata.  Brandon
added his special blueberry pancakes.

As the chefs prepared breakfast, Cody looked out the front window to see
Vicente and Maria Sanchez, along with Alejandro and Ana, driving up the
driveway to the house.  "We have company.  The Sanchez family is here."

Uncle Rick was curiously concerned.  "I wonder what they are doing here so
early.  It isn't even sunup yet."  He met them at the front door and
hurriedly welcomed them inside out of the cold wind.  "Come in, neighbors.
Let me take your coats."

Maria and Vicente thanked Uncle Rick and prompted Alejandro and Ana to also
thank Uncle Rick.  He put their coats in the guest closet and ushered them
into the living room.

Vicente apologized for their early visit.  "I'm sorry, Rick.  We tried
calling but the phone lines are down.  Our power went out sometime in the
night and our well pump isn't pumping water.  When I tried to start the
generator I found there was no gas in the tank.  I had filled the tank last
week.  I don't know what happened to the gas.  Our house has no electricity
or water."

Uncle Rick nodded, understanding the situation.  "You know you are always
welcome here.  Come in and join us for breakfast.  The coffee and hot
chocolate are hot and ready.  Brandon and Mario are preparing breakfast and
there is always more than enough food for all of us."

Uncle Rick, Vicente and Henry discussed the power outage problem over the
mouth-watering Italian/American breakfast.

Uncle Rick mentioned the susceptibility of the grid system.  "I think we
can take measures to ensure our electricity stays on during storms like
this one."

Vicente agreed.  "I agree the system is not as reliable as it can be.  What
do you propose we do, Rick?"

"Photovoltaic solar panels have been around for a few years.  We could have
a solar contractor construct a solar array large enough to accommodate the
power needs of both of our ranches.  We could have an off-grid system with
underground lines feeding both of our houses and we could also have a
contractor construct a hydroelectric generator in the creek that runs along
the common property line and feed the electricity into the system."

Vicente was excited with the idea.  "Rick, it may be expensive but it would
be worth it to not be reliant on the old grid system.  I know a solar
contractor in Kingston.  I can call him tomorrow morning if the phone lines
are working."

Maria interjected.  "Vicente and Rick, is there something we can do to be
in contact with each other when the telephones don't work?  Is there
another way to contact each other?"

Henry's eyes brightened.  "I have an idea.  Rick, we still have the
C.B. radios we used about 10 years ago.  We could set those up."

Uncle Rick agreed.  "Henry, that's a good idea.  I knew we kept you around
for a reason.  We have four of those mobile C.B. radios.  We could set
three of them up with inverters as base stations, one for each of the
houses, including Raul and Travis' house.  I'm pretty sure we could find a
few more and install them in the vehicles as well."

Vicente remembered he too had C.B. radios.  "I have my old base station
radio and two mobile radios as well.  I also have the antennas.

Henry nodded.  "I can get everything, including all the cars and trucks
radios installed and working in a couple days."

While the adults were putting together their plan for keeping connected,
Cody was busy sketching a drawing on a piece of paper.  When he finished he
slid the paper across the table to Uncle Rick.

Uncle Rick picked up the paper and looked at the drawing.  "Cody, good job.
Is it a windmill?"

Cody explained.  "You know my gravity generator?  Well, this is like that
except instead of the alternator being connected to a weight, a propeller
drives it like a windmill for power. It can be installed at Raul and
Travis' house and connect it to batteries for their power."

Uncle Rick looked at the drawing once more and handed it to Vicente.
"Vicente, what do you think?"

Vicente smiled at Cody.  "I think Cody is as you say, a wizard.  This is a
very good idea.  I think we should build this wind generator and install it
at the boys' house."

Maria suddenly grew concerned.  "Speaking of Raul and Travis, we have not
heard from them.  I hope they are alright."

Uncle Rick gave a reassuring smile.  "Maria, if I know Raul and Travis,
they are huddled together safe and warm under the covers like a couple big
puppies.  We can drive over to check on them after we take some gas to your
place and see if there is a leak in the generator gas tank."

After breakfast Henry loaded a 5-gallon jerry can of gas into the ranch
pickup.  He and Vicente drove to the Sanchez ranch.  Uncle Rick, Maria,
Alejandro, and Ana followed in the Sanchez car.

Once there, Henry took the jerry can out of the pickup and poured a small
amount of gas into the generator gas tank.  Immediately gas began dripping
out of the side of a rubber gas line below the tank.

Henry examined the gas line.  "Well, here is the culprit.  A mouse has
gnawed through the fuel line.  The spilled gas probably evaporated right
away so it wasn't noticeable. "

Vicente saw rubber gas line chips the mouse had left on top of the engine.
"Yes, I see that.  I have some extra gas line hose in the tool shed.  I can
replace this quickly."

Henry and Vicente quickly repaired the gas line and poured more gas in the
generator tank.  It no longer leaked out so Henry poured the remainder of
the gas into the tank.  Vicente turned the key and the generator
immediately started, providing power to the house.  Maria thanked Henry,
took the kids in the house and started a fire in the wood stove.

Henry, Vicente, and Uncle Rick drove the ranch pickup over the back road to
Raul and Travis' home.  When they arrived at the ridgeline a powerful gust
of wind rocked the truck, startling the three men.  Henry managed to keep
the truck on the road and continued driving to their destination.

Raul and Travis had just finished breakfast at the rustic kitchen bar and
were washing dishes when the men arrived.

Raul greeted the three visitors at the door and invited them in.  "Papa,
Uncle Rick, Henry, come in.  We have hot coffee in the pot for you."

The three men walked into the warmly decorated country house.  Hugs were
shared.  Raul pulled out coffee cups and Travis poured the fresh coffee
from the pot that was warming on the top of the wood stove into them,
handing them out.

Uncle Rick appreciated the warm coffee.  "Thank you, Travis.  This sure is
good on a chilly day like this."

Uncle Rick glanced around the small but comfortable house.  The
satin-finished 2-story beamed and wood paneled ceiling matched the finished
wood floor.  Hand painted landscapes hung on the walls.  A wooden ladder
accessed a cozy sleeping loft above the lower bedroom and bathroom.
Handmade cabinets and countertops complemented the ranch-architecture.

Henry thanked them for the coffee and took a sip of the delicious java.
"We came to see how you guys are handling the storm.  It looks like you're
doing alright for yourselves."

Raul sipped the coffee from his cup.  "Sometimes in the night it sounded
like the wind was going to blow the house off the mountain.  I'm glad we
built it extra strong and we added the shutters."

Travis nodded.  "Around 3:00 o'clock a strong gust tore one of the limbs
off a box elder tree and blew it onto the roof of the house.  We thought
the roof was going to cave in.  It held together though.  We don't have
electricity but that's okay.  We have the fire in the wood stove to keep us
warm and to cook meals."

This was Uncle Rick's first visit to the house on the ridgeline.  "Where
does your water come from?"

Raul explained.  "There is an artesian spring about one-hundred feet in
back of the house.  It feeds into a small pond but we also have a
3,000-gallon tank that is filled by the spring water."

Vicente proudly looked around at his son's house.  "We used extra heavy
posts and beams for the construction.  Perhaps we should have also added a
generator for when the electricity fails."

Uncle Rock interjected.  "That reminds me, this morning we were talking
about making a more reliable power source for the three homes on the
ranches.  Cody came up with the idea of building a wind generator on a
tower to power your house."

Raul was excited.  "The wind almost always blows up here on the ridgeline.
There are few calm days here.  There is enough wind here to generate much
more electricity than we need."

Uncle Rick offered to order the parts for the tower and generator tomorrow.
Vicente offered cement and rebar steel that can be used to build a concrete
base and steel bars that can be used to construct a tower on which to mount
the wind generator. They could construct the wind generator within a couple
days of the ordered parts arrival and have it operational in no time.

Raul and Travis enthusiastically agreed to have the wind generator
installed.  After they discussed the wind generator in more detail and
visited a while Uncle Rick, Vicente and Henry said their farewells and made
the blustery trip down the mountain road back home.

The high winds continued for the remainder of the day.  Erik, Tony, and
Cody spent time in the stables playing with Gisele and Sundown.  Erik
visited the mare and Sundown every day to watch the beautiful foal grow.

Daniel and Jason decided to spend the stormy day on the couch, cuddling and
taking turns reading an exciting mystery novel to each other.  The story
was about three boys in search for one's missing uncle.  The location of
the storyline of the novel took place near Jason's old hometown, stirring
their enthusiasm for the story.  The young lovers kissed each other
lovingly every time they completed the captivating chapters.  Sometime in
the late afternoon the power company linemen restored power to the ranches.
Generators were shut down and life around the ranch resumed as normal.


Cody woke up with a smile on his face the next morning.  The high winds
from the day before had subsided and October 31 was more than just
Halloween.  It was also Cody's birthday.  Tony and Erik treated Cody to a
pampering in the shower.  Tony washed Cody's back while Erik washed his
front.  When it was time to shampoo they had him close his eyes while they
massaged his scalp with shampoo.  Cody beamed from ear to ear, enjoying the
wonderful head massage.  Tony winked at Erik and they gave Cody loving,
happy birthday kisses.  After all three boys rinsed, they dried each other
with towels and padded into the bedroom to dress for the day.  All the kids
were allowed to wear costumes to school to celebrate the holiday.  Tony
chose to dress as a zombie.  Erik decided to dress to school as a doctor,
while Cody appropriately dressed like a wizard.

At the breakfast table everyone wished Cody a happy birthday while Uncle
Rick took pictures of the three boys in their costumes.  Brandon made
Cody's favorite blackberry waffles with homemade whipped cream.  After
breakfast Brandon and Henry gave Cody birthday gifts.  Cody excitedly
opened the package from Henry.  He tore off the colorful wrapping paper to
find a professional magic kit.

Cody thanked Henry with a big hug.  "Thank you so much, Henry.  Now I can
be a real wizard."

Cody happily smiled at Brandon and opened his gift.  He opened the box to
reveal a box of homemade bonbon candies in the shape of little pumpkins,
black cats, and ghosts.

Cody thanked Brandon with a big hug.  "You remembered how much I like your
candy, Brandon.  Thank you so much."

Uncle Rick noticed the time on the kitchen clock. "Hey, we need to get a
move on if we're going to get you guys to school."

Tony, Erik, and Cody grabbed their sack lunches Brandon had waiting for
them and joined Uncle Rick at the truck.

Nearly all of the kids at Cody's school dressed in costumes.  Cody, along
with some of his other classmates, went straight to his classroom.  He took
his seat and looked around the room at the fun costumes.  Joshua
Hollingsworth wore a real looking Jedi Knight costume.  Mary Lynn Levy was
dressed as an elf and Thomas Wright was dressed as Mr. Peanut.  Cody gave a
confused expression glancing at Wendy Stewart.  She wore some kind of
costume made from curved green plastic pieces with pink feathers on the
edges connected together with string.  On the plastic piece that hung on
her chest and the plastic piece that hung on her back were the words "
Perfectly Cubed Kangaroos" written in pink markers.  Neither the costume
nor the words made any sense to Cody.  He was about ready to ask Wendy what
it meant but decided it was probably too strange to understand.  He would
be polite and not say anything negative about it.  He was happy he didn't
accept Wendy's offer to study together though.

Cody didn't want a lot of attention about his birthday.  He was happy to
celebrate the festive holiday of Halloween at home without calling
attention to himself at school.  He went through the entire day without
anyone making a fuss until the last hour.

Mr. Hill finished the history lesson and made an announcement.  "Today is a
special day in history, class.  Eleven years ago today a young man was
born."

Cody shrank in his chair, realizing Mr. Hill was talking about him.

Mr. Hill continued.  "That young man is sitting right here in our
classroom.  Lets all sing happy birthday to Cody Hansen.  Everybody, Happy
birthday to you...."

Cody thought to himself.  "This can't be happening.  This is humiliating.
I should have brought Henry's magic kit and waved my wand to make this go
away."

"Happy birthday dear Cody. Happy birthday to you."

The students finished singing and clapped in congratulations to Cody.

Cody took a deep breath and thanked Mr. Hill and all the students for
helping to make the day special.  He diverted the attention by encouraging
them to have a fun night trick-or-treating and bring home lots of candy.

The students smiled and cheered.  The last bell rang and class was
dismissed.  Many of his friends came up and wished Cody a happy birthday.

Wendy awkwardly approached Cody.  "Happy birthday, Cody.  Please let me
know if there is anything I can do to make it better."  She gave an
annoying wink at Cody.

Despite not being attracted to Wendy's appearance, her voice or her
attitude, Cody did his best to be nice.  He knew she was not being nice to
him just to be nice and was sure her motivation was self-serving.  "Thank
you Wendy.  I promise if there is anything I can think of I'll let you
know.  Bye."

Wendy opened her mouth to say something else but Cody quickly grabbed his
backpack and walked rapidly out of the classroom.  When he spotted Uncle
Rick's truck he ran as fast as he could, climbed inside, and quickly shut
the door.

Uncle Rick was concerned and looked around for any nearby suspicious
strangers.  "What's the hurry, Cody?  Is someone stalking you?"

Cody nodded.  "Yeah, weird Wendy Stewart was being strange and I wanted to
get away from her before she asked me to be her boyfriend or something."

Uncle Rick was grateful it was just Wendy Stewart and not someone from the
church.  He pulled out of the school-loading zone.  "Cody, maybe Wendy
Stewart thinks you would be a very nice boyfriend.  Do you think you may
want a girlfriend?"

Cody scrunched up his face.  "No, Uncle Rick. I don't want a girlfriend.
Girls smell funny like perfume and are squishy.  Besides, Wendy Stewart
only wants a boyfriend so she can brag to the other girls that she has one.
I like just being with my brothers.  They love me more than Wendy could
ever love a boyfriend."

Uncle Rick felt tears form in his eyes.  "That's very sweet of you, Cody.
I know your brothers love you very much.  So do Brandon, Henry and I."

Cody beamed.  "I love you too, Uncle Rick.  I always have.  If you weren't
driving I would give you a big hug."

Uncle Rick smiled as he drove the short distance to the junior high school
to pick up Erik and Tony. The boys were waiting at the curb for him and
quickly climbed in the truck to head home to the ranch.  For dinner that
evening Brandon cooked one of Cody's favorite meals, a fresh green leaf
salad with thousand-island dressing, seasoned chicken fried chicken, which
was like chicken fried steak but with chicken, smashed garlic potatoes and
light gravy.  After the meals were gobbled up Henry retrieved a bucket of
homemade ice cream from the kitchen and was followed by Brandon carried a
sheet cake with lighted candles from the kitchen.  Everyone sang happy
birthday to Cody, who made a wish and blew the candles out.

Cody sliced the first piece.  "Ooh, yum, chocolate, my favorite!  Thank you
Brandon."

When everyone finished their cake and ice cream, Cody was handed colorfully
wrapped gifts from everyone.  Cody made out like a bandit.  Daniel and
Jason bought him a portable Disc player and several compact discs for him
to play.  Uncle Rick gave Cody a warm goose down jacket, two hooded sweat
shirts and a pair of jeans.  Travis and Raul gave Cody a radio controlled
model airplane.  Erik gave Cody more compact discs.  Tony and Mario gave
Cody headphones to use with his disc player.  Cody gave hugs to everyone,
thanking them for the wonderful presents.

After dinner Raul and Travis wished Cody happy birthday one last time and
said their goodnights before driving to their house on the ridgeline.
Brandon, Henry and Uncle Rick retired to their rooms, leaving Jason and
Daniel to cuddle together on the loveseat.  Erik and Tony cuddled Cody from
both sides and Mario sat in the overstuffed chair enjoying the quiet
evening in front of the fire with such loving people.

The next morning, November 1, was another important day at the Ranch.  It
was Daniel's 18th birthday.  Daniel officially became an adult.  Everyone
agreed to wait until the evening, when all of the family would be home, to
celebrate the occasion.  At breakfast Brandon and Mario asked Daniel what
he wanted to have for his special birthday dinner.

Daniel knew immediately what he wanted.  That evening, per Daniel's
request, Mario and Brandon served a special chicken penne marinara pasta
dinner with antipasto salad and garlic bread birthday dinner for Daniel.
Everyone at the table agreed it was the best chicken penne dinner they'd
ever eaten.  After dinner Brandon brought out a two-tier cake with lighted
candles.  The family sang happy birthday to Daniel, who made a wish and
blew out the candles.  Cody rushed into the kitchen and brought back a
bucket of homemade vanilla gelato.  Daniel cut the first slice and
discovered it was his favorite kind, carrot cake with cream cheese
frosting.  He was in heaven as he gobbled up the delightful dessert.

When everyone finished the cake and ice cream Uncle Rick handed Daniel a
large red envelope.  Daniel beamed as he opened the envelope and pulled out
a large happy birthday card.  When he opened it an official looking
certificate fell onto the table.  Daniel first read out loud the sweet and
humorous message that was printed and written in the card.  He picked up
the certificate that had fallen out of the card.

Uncle Rick beamed.  "Read that one out loud too, Daniel."

Daniel read the certificate.  "The bearer of this certificate is hereby
awarded a full tuition to attend Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University
conditioned upon the successful completion of a high school General
Education Development program."

Daniel lowered the certificate and stared at uncle Rick.  He was at a loss
for words.

Uncle Rick grinned.  "That's right.  It's a full tuition for you to attend
flight school, get your pilot's license and get your college degree as
well.  But you have to pass the G.E.D. examination first.  I'll help you
with studying to achieve that, Daniel."

Tears formed in Daniel's eyes.  "Uncle Rick, no one has ever done so much
for me.  You saved my life, gave me a home, a family, and so much love.  I
can never repay you.  Thank you.  I promise I will pass the G.E.D. and I
won't let you down."

Daniel wrapped his arms around Uncle Rick and hugged him tight.  Uncle Rick
held Daniel tight.  "You're just like my own, Daniel.  I know you'll do
your best.  I have a copy of the Embry-Riddle catalog in my desk to give
you and you can choose your courses and major. "

Daniel beamed from ear to ear.  "How did you know I wanted to go to
Embry-Riddle, Uncle Rick?"

Uncle Rick winked at Cody.  "A little wizard told me."

Cody giggled and handed Daniel a present wrapped in red wrapping paper and
a white ribbon.  Daniel thanked Cody and opened the present.  He unwrapped
the present to find a pilot's logbook and kneeboard.  Daniel thanked Cody
and gave him a big hug.  Daniel picked up another present off the table and
opened the envelope attached to it.  Brandon and Henry signed the funny
birthday card that was in the envelope.  He opened the box to find a set of
high quality pilot headsets.  Danny's eyes opened wide.  He knew how
expensive the headphones were.  He thanked them and gave them both big
hugs.

Daniel saw another box with another envelope.  It was from Raul and Travis.
He thanked them and opened the box to find flight-training manuals.  He
thanked them and gave them big hugs.  Finally it was time to open the last
box.  It was a large box with an envelope attached.  He opened the envelope
and found a beautiful romantic birthday card from Jason.  He thanked Jason
with a kiss and unwrapped the box.  Inside was a pilot's flight bag.  Jason
encouraged him to open the bag.  Upon doing so Daniel found a dozen roses
inside.  He gave a tearful thank you hug and kiss to Jason.  Everyone
wished Daniel a happy birthday.  Daniel and Jason looked over Daniel's
great gifts.  Daniel thumbed through the flight-training manual while Jason
took the headphones out of the box and put them on Daniel.  Daniel was
giddy with excitement.

Later that night Jason and Daniel retired to their bedroom.  Jason stood
before Daniel and took him into his arms, embracing him tenderly.  Daniel
lovingly returned the embrace.  Jason looked into Daniels eyes and softly
whispered.  "Tonight is a special night, not just because it is your
birthday, but because you are in the eyes of the law, able to be respected
to make your own choices in life.  We share a unique love, a strong
passion, and a synchronous connection.  Daniel, I want to be more than just
friends, more than boyfriends, and more than lovers.  Daniel, would you be
my husband, my destined lover and my soul mate for life?"

Daniel gazed deeply into Jason's eyes and felt tears form in his.  His
heartbeat increased and he struggled to answer.  After catching his breath,
he smiled as tears ran down his cheeks.  "Yes, Jason.  I want more than
anything to be with you forever.  I'll be your partner and your destined
lover.  I know deep in my heart we are already soul mates and I know we are
supposed to be for life."

The young lovers kissed and embraced each other passionately.  As they
kissed they slowly undressed one another.  After they removed all of their
clothes, they entwined and lowered onto the bed.  The love they shared was
so strong that even though they were completely naked and caressing every
part of their bodies, they felt they could not get close enough to satisfy
their ever-increasing desires.  Any resistance gave way to passion as they
made fiery love that night, confirming and satisfying their desires, their
love, and their devotion.


Vicente's solar contractor, Bob McCain in Kingston, made an appointment to
visit and tour the Sanchez and Rhyolite Ranches on the following
Saturday. Bob McCain and his 11-year old son, Christopher arrived at
Vicente's home precisely at 11:00 A.M. Saturday.  Vicente had worked
together with Bob last year on a building project on a ranch located in a
remote area about 30 miles south of Chaparral.  The two men hit it off and
worked well to quickly finish the project in less time than the owner had
planned.  Vicente climbed into Bob's truck and they drove to the Rhyolite
Ranch to start the tour.  When Bob climbed out of the truck, Uncle Rick
noticed Bob's handsome face, large bedroom-eyes, and toned muscles.  He
shook his hand and instantly felt a strong connection.  Bob couldn't help
but notice Uncle Rick's loving eyes, warm welcoming smile, and bulky
muscles.  He also felt that special connection when they shook hands.

Cody came out of the house and saw Vicente and Uncle Rick talking with
Bob. He also noticed a very cute boy, Christopher, who looked up at him and
smiled.  Cody came to the group and said hi.  Uncle Rick introduced Cody to
Bob and Christopher.  Bob shook Cody's hand.  Christopher smiled and shook
Cody's hand as well.  He held it a bit longer and Cody gave a big smile.
While Vicente, Bob, and Uncle Rick walked around the grounds, Christopher
and Cody hung back a bit and became acquainted.  Soon they were getting
along as if they had known each other for years.  After touring the ranch
house, new barn, and stables the group went to Cody's gravity generator.
Bob had been writing meticulous notes on a notepad and took particular
interest in the device as Cody briefly explained how it worked and even
more so when they toured the greenhouse and saw the number of lights and
fans using electricity generated by the gravity generator.

Christopher whispered in Cody's ear.  "Cody, my dad is impressed with your
gravity generator.  I am too.  You must be really smart to design something
like that."

Cody beamed.  "Thank you, Christopher.  That means a lot coming from you,
being the son of a solar energy contractor and all."

After discussing the energy needs of the Rhyolite Ranch, the five climbed
in Bob's truck and drove to the Sanchez Ranch, where they toured the
facilities and discussed the energy needs there.  After showing Bob the
Sanchez facilities they climbed in the truck and took the back road to Raul
and Travis' house.  Raul and Travis welcomed everyone and talked about
their energy requirements.  Bob noticed a place in back of their house that
would be an ideal location to construct a tower for a wind generator.
After saying goodbyes to Raul and Travis the group drove to the creek that
ran along the boundary of the two properties.  The creek was flowing
heavily and Bob made additional notes on his note pad.  On the way back to
the Sanchez house Christopher and Cody sat in the rear seat with their legs
touching.  They smiled at each other often and could tell they both liked
each other.  Vicente said his goodbyes at his house and the group continued
to the Rhyolite Ranch.  Uncle Rick invited Bob and Christopher to have
lunch before leaving for their return journey to Kingston.  Bob accepted
the invitation.

Brandon and Mario had prepared a homemade Italian chicken soup, warm
sourdough bread and meatball sandwiches. Henry, Jason, Daniel, Erik and
Tony took a break from their chores and joined the rest of the family for
lunch.

Bob complemented the family on how well kept and orderly the ranch was.  He
asked Uncle Rick about the history of the ranch.  Uncle Rick explained how
when he was seven years old, in the late 1950's, his parents grew crops in
order to acquire over 1,280 acres through the federal government's
homestead act.  After they were patented the land the family built the
ranch house and moved into it. When Uncle Rick was 20-years old his parents
passed away leaving the ranch to him.  For a while it was just Uncle Rick
and Wes, who his parents hired to run the ranch.  His friends, Henry and
Brandon were living in Chaparral and looking for work. Uncle Rick had known
them all of his life and hired them.

Bob noticed there were no women in the house.  "Did you ever want a wife?"

Uncle Rick chuckled.  "No, I've never wanted a wife.  That wouldn't work at
all."

Christopher interjected.  "My dad doesn't want a wife either."

Bob snickered.  "Christopher is right.  I've been single all my life.  I
wouldn't mind a partner if the right one came along but I never wanted a
wife.  I adopted Christopher when he was 5 years old and it's been just the
two of us."

Cody smiled at Christopher, reached over and squeezed his hand.
Christopher held on to Cody's hand and beamed from ear to ear.

Uncle Rick was intrigued with Bob and asked him how he entered the solar
energy business.

Bob began his story.  "I was about Christopher's age when the world
celebrated Earth Day for the first time.  The entire world was focused on
creating a better environment on our planet.  It made a big impression on
me.  That day I decided I would have a career focused on creating a better
world.  When I graduated from high school I got a job with a solar energy
company in Arizona.  I learned the basics of the industry.  After being
with that company for three years, I quit, moved back home to Kingston and
started my own business.  I've been doing that since."

Uncle Rick thought about the potential for an energy contractor in a small
town.  "Do you have enough business in Kingston?"

Bob shook his head in the negative.  "At first things were going great but
the last few years the market seems to have dropped off.  Kingston may have
a larger population than Chaparral but most of the homes are pretty close
together within a few blocks radius of downtown.  There are very few rural
places like this ranch, so everyone is content with their grid power.  Most
aren't interested in going solar.  That's why when Vicente called me I
drove right over.  I sure could use the business and would love to help you
guys get off the grid.  I will give you the best price I can too."

Uncle Rick nodded, understanding.  "Bob, if the price is right, we'll give
you the contract."

Bob grinned.  "I know I can make the price right.  I'll get you the
estimate as soon as I work up the figures."  Bob looked at Christopher.
"What do you think, my man?  Should we get a move on and hit the road back
home?"

Cody suddenly felt ill and realized something was wrong.  He had to say
something quickly.  "Uncle Rick, maybe Mr. McCain and Christopher would
like to stay overnight and drive home in the morning."

Uncle Rick agreed with Cody.  "Yes, Bob, why don't you guys stay overnight
and get a fresh start in the morning."

Bob hesitated.  "Well, we can't impose and besides, you just met us.  We
can head back after lunch."

Cody felt faint and sick to his stomach.  "Uncle Rick, please!"

Uncle Rick noticed Cody's expression, a mix of pain and panic.  "Cody, is
something wrong?"

Cody nodded.  "They aren't supposed to drive home today."

Uncle Rick looked directly at Cody.  "Cody, is this one of those things we
talked about?  Is something bad going to happen?"

Cody nodded. "Yes, Uncle Rick, please.  They need to stay here tonight."

As Bob and Christopher watched in confusion, Uncle Rick thought how to
explain Cody's insistence.  He turned to Bob with a serious expression.
"This may sound a bit strange, but Cody has an unusual ability.  He
intuitively knows when things in the universe are right or wrong.  I don't
know how he knows but he's never been wrong.  At first I doubted his
ability but after being correct every time, I completely believe in him.
Please, is there any way you guys can stay here tonight?  I promise it is
no imposition, you will be refreshed for the drive home tomorrow morning,
and we'd love to have you."

Bob looked in Uncle Rick's eyes and saw his genuine concern as well.  He
turned to Christopher.  "What do you think, sport?  Do you want to stay
here at the ranch tonight and drive home tomorrow?"

Christopher glanced at Cody and smiled.  "Dad, I trust Cody and besides,
everyone here is so nice.  If we left now we wouldn't be home until after
dinner time anyway.  Can we, Dad, Please?"

Bob knew when he was outnumbered.  "Okay, you talked me into it.  We'll
stay the night. Thank you for your generous hospitality, Rick; and Cody,
thank you for your concern about our safety."

Cody suddenly felt better.  "Thank you, Mr. McCain.  I promise you will be
glad you did.  We have lots of room.  Also, Brandon is a wizard chef and
Mario can cook better than anyone in Italy."

Everyone at the table laughed at Cody's utmost confidence in Brandon and
Mario.

Cody and Christopher were inseparable after lunch.  Cody showed him
Giselle, Sundown, and the rest of the horses.

Christopher mentioned he never rode a horse before and Cody's eyes
brightened.  "Maybe we could go riding now.  I'll ask Uncle Rick."

Christopher beamed.  "Can we?"

Cody shrugged. "Maybe, let's go ask."

The boys padded into the ranch house and found Uncle Rick and Christopher's
dad still talking at the table.

Cody asked permission to take Christopher horseback riding.  Uncle Rick
suggested the four of them go for a horseback ride together.  Cody saw
Uncle Rick and Bob give each other an affectionate glance and smile.  At
that moment he knew he was going to have a new uncle and he giggled.

Uncle Rick gave Cody a stern look.  "Don't make me do a sneak up tickle
attack, you varmint.  If you get the horses ready, we'll be right there."

Cody and Christopher returned to the stables and saddled Cody's horse and
two horses for Uncle Rick and Bob.  "For the first time we'll both ride
together.  You can sit in front of me and I'll teach you how to ride."

Christopher was excited.  "Cody, will you please make sure I don't fall
off?"

Cody grinned.  "I promise I'll hold you close and you won't fall off."

Uncle Rick and Bob joined the boys in the stables.  Soon the four were on
the trail leading to the ridgeline overlooking the beautiful valley to the
southwest.  Cody put his arms around Christopher's waist holding him
securely.  Occasionally he would quietly give him instructions and helpful
hints.  It wasn't long before Christopher was doing so well it was as if he
had ridden for years.  Soon the four reached the valley overlook.

Bob stared into the distance, marveling at the spectacular view before him.
"Now I understand why you stayed here after your parents passed away.  This
is a beautiful place you have here, Rick.  I'm amazed you haven't found
anyone who would do anything to be here with you."

Uncle Rick gave a sheepish grin.  "Well, I guess nobody appreciated the
view."

Bob lowered his head and looked up at Rick.  "Until now, maybe."

Cody gently squeezed Christopher and put his chin on his shoulder to
whisper in his ear.  "I think my uncle likes your dad."

Christopher turned beaming from ear to ear turned and whispered to Cody.
"I think my dad likes your uncle and that's not all."

Christopher smiled and kissed Cody's cheek.  Cody giggled with delight and
returned a kiss on Christopher's cheek.

After a few minutes of affectionately admiring the view the four continued
along the trail to a fork in the road.  One trail continued northerly to
the back of the ranch.  The other branched to the east to Becker's Canyon.
They decided Becker's Canyon would be more interesting to the McCains, so
they took the eastern trail.  After a half-hour they reached the opening to
Becker's Canyon and continued into the narrowing passageway.  Christopher
looked down to see the horse's hooves splashing in the warm water flowing
over the gravel of the canyon floor.  When they reached the sand bar in the
open area of the canyon, they dismounted and let the horses munch on the
grasses that poked through the sand to the life-giving sunlight.  The men
and boys walked along the creek to the pool of warm water that Daniel and
Cody constructed.

Uncle Rick casually inspected the pool.  "Cody, you and Daniel told me
about building this and it sounded like you put a lot of work into it.
This is the first time I've seen it.  I didn't know it was this big.  You
guys did a good job building it."

Cody beamed.  "Thank you, Uncle Rick.  It's deep enough for us to soak and
even swim a little in the water too.  Can we...um, May we please go
swimming?"

Uncle Rick felt taken aback.  "We don't have any swimming trunks, Cody.  We
don't want to embarrass our guests."

Christopher snickered.  "Don't worry about embarrassing me.  I go
skinny-dipping with my friends in their swimming pool all the time."

Bob grinned.  "How about it, Rick?  It will be like it was when we were
kids."

Cody encouraged Uncle Rick.  "There aren't any girls to giggle at us, Uncle
Rick.  Can't we go swimming for a while?"

Uncle Rick relinquished.  "Well, it does sound refreshing.  Sure, why not!"

Cody and Christopher cheered, quickly removed their clothes and slid into
the soothing warm water and splashed each other playfully.  Uncle Rick and
Bob slid their clothes off and climbed into the relaxing pool.

Bob quickly noticed how invigorating the water seemed to be. "Say, what is
in this water?  I feel great."

Uncle Rick realized he also felt energized.  "I've never had the water here
tested before.  Maybe I should have that done."

Cody giggled.  "Test this Uncle Rick!"

Giving a mischief expression, Cody playfully splashed Uncle Rick.

Christopher laughed and followed Cody's lead, splashing his dad.

Bob turned to Uncle Rick.  "What do you say, shall we teach these boys how
to have a splash fight?"

Uncle Rick grinned.  "Let's do it!"

Suddenly water flew everywhere in an epic water battle.  At first the men
gained ground, backing Cody and Christopher towards the side of the pool.
The skirmish suddenly turned when Bob and Uncle Rick started laughing
hysterically.  They laughed so hard they doubled over.  Cody and
Christopher attacked full force, splashing harder and faster until the men
retreated to their side of the pool in uncontrolled laughter.  Cody and
Christopher cheered at their victory and hugged each other in celebration.
Uncle Rick and Bob lay back together laughing. As they held on to each
other their laughter subsided and they caught their breath and stared into
each other's eyes.  They smiled and simultaneously leaned in, softly
kissing each other's lips.

Cody and Christopher happily grinned at each other and also lovingly
kissed.  The men broke their kiss and glanced at the lip-locked boys.

Uncle Rick smiled lovingly.  "It looks like things are going to get very
interesting."

Bob nodded in agreement.  "I'll say.  I didn't expect any of this."

The men cuddled in the relaxing water while the boys quietly embraced.  All
four were in blissful peace.  After about 15 minutes Uncle Rick noticed the
water in the pool sloshing from one side to the other.

Cody looked up to see the waves in the water and looked at Uncle Rick.
"Uncle Rick, I think we just had an earthquake."

Uncle Rick nodded.  "I think you're right.  Maybe we should head back to
the house."

The four guys dried off the best they could, dressed, mounted their horses
and rode back to the ranch house.  Upon returning they found Henry,
Brandon, Jason and Daniel inspecting the house, new barn, and stables.

Henry walked over to Uncle Rick.  "I don't know if you felt the earthquake
where you were but it was pretty big here.  It shook the house quite a bit.
We're looking for any signs of damage from it.  Everything looks okay
though."

Uncle Rick was relieved.  "Do we know where the epicenter was?"

Henry shook his head.  "We haven't heard and I didn't want to tie up the
lines to the sheriff's office.  I imagine it will be in tomorrow's news
though."

Uncle Rick, Bob, Cody and Christopher walked the horses to the stables,
unsaddled them, brushed them and gave them hay and water to cool down from
the afternoon walk.  After the horses were safely in their stables, the
four returned to the ranch house to find Brandon and Mario preparing
dinner.

Cody peeked in the kitchen.  "What's for dinner, wizard chefs?"

Mario giggled.  "To celebrate the earthquake we're having strawberry
shake-em-up Jello.

Cody giggled.  "Mario, if we're having Jello, why does it smell like marina
sauce?"

Mario laughed.  "You mean marinara sauce.  Marina sauce isn't nearly as
tasty and smells fishy."

Cody giggled at his mistake.  "Oh yeah.  Okay, why does it smell like
marinara sauce?"

Mario held back his laughter and shrugged.  "Maybe Brandon is making
Italian Jello.

Cody scrunched up his face.  "Ewwww, I think I'll just have cereal
tonight."

Brandon snickered.  "We can do better than cereal or Jello, Cody. Dinner
will be ready in about an hour.  Make sure you're all washed and ready to
eat. "

Dinner was a delicious meatloaf wrapped in bacon and covered with cheese,
preceded by a tasty fresh salad made from produce picked from the
greenhouse, glazed carrots, and smashed potatoes with gravy made from the
juices of the meatloaf.  Bob and Christopher felt so welcomed by everyone
in the family and were happy they made the choice to stay overnight at the
ranch.

After dinner Uncle Rick and Bob joined the boys gathered around the fire,
cuddling in the second love seat.

Cody smiled and giggled.

Uncle Rick gave Cody a mock mean look.  "Just what are you giggling about,
young man?"

Cody giggled again.  "We're going to need more cuddle seats if any more of
us cuddle in here."

Uncle Rick chuckled, looked at Bob, whom he embraced, and agreed.

They cuddled for hours until everyone began yawning.  It was time for bed.

Brandon and Henry said goodnight and went to their rooms.  Uncle Rick and
Bob retired to Uncle Rick's room while Jason and Daniel cuddled under their
sheets.  Erik and Tony climbed into their bed and cuddled with each other.
Cody welcomed Christopher into his bed with a warm embrace.  Everyone slept
soundly with smiles on their faces.

Brandon and Henry were up at sunrise to feed animals.  When they were
finished Brandon turned on the coffee pot and began preparing breakfast.
He put bacon in the frying pan, chuckled, and started a countdown measuring
the time it took for the aromas to wake the family.  The countdown lasted
only a few minutes before Brandon heard stirring coming from the bedrooms
and bathrooms.  He smiled, knowing he had the best olfactory alarm clock in
the world for waking men from their sleep.

Uncle Rick and Bob were the first couple to find their way to the kitchen.
They poured themselves coffee and sat at the breakfast table.  Jason and
Daniel were next to come into the kitchen.  They were the tea drinkers of
the family.  Daniel put the kettle on and put loose tea in the tea baskets.
At last Erik, Tony, Cody, and Christopher slowly strolled into the kitchen,
poured themselves orange juice and cuddled together at the table.

As everyone was enjoying the morning libations when the telephone rang.
Brandon was closest to it and answered it.  The guys stayed quiet so he
could hear the person on the other end of the line.

Brandon nodded.  "Yes, Vicente?  That's horrible.  When did it happen?  No,
they stayed overnight here.  Yes, it sure is a good thing they did.  Cody
insisted they not drive back yesterday.  I agree.  Yes, well thanks for
calling, Vicente.  I'll let them know.  Have a good day.  Bye."

Uncle Rick was concerned.  "Brandon, what is it?"

Brandon looked shocked.  "That earthquake we felt yesterday was centered
near Black Rock Canyon.  The quake triggered a landslide in the canyon.
The landslide came down on the Kingston Highway.  Eight cars and a
semi-truck were caught in the landslide.  Ten people were killed and five
sustained major injuries.  According to the highway patrol, the highway
will be closed for at least three days.  Vicente says he is glad you
decided not to drive home."

Bob and Christopher's eyes widened.  Bob looked at Cody.  "You did know.
We would have been right there about the time the earthquake occurred.  You
saved our lives.  Cody, thank you."

Cody smiled.  "Thank you for believing me, Mr. McCain.  I'm glad you
stayed.  Now you and Uncle Rick can be boyfriends and Christopher and I can
be boyfriends too."

Christopher beamed from ear to ear, leaned over and kissed Cody's cheek.

Uncle Rick glanced at Cody.  "Why do you think Bob and I can be boyfriends
and why do you think you and Christopher can be boyfriends?  We all just
met yesterday."

Cody giggled.  "Uncle Rick, Cody knows all!"

Uncle Rick shook his head.  "Silly me for asking."

Bob thought for a moment and suddenly had a concerned look.  "How are we
going to go home today?  The road is closed."

Uncle Rick sipped his coffee and set the cup down on the table.  "Daniel,
what do you think?  Do you know any way to get Bob and Christopher back to
Kingston today?"

Daniel sat up straight and grinned.  "Uncle Rick, can you fly them home?"

Uncle Rick chuckled.  "I thought that would wake you up.  Yes, we can fly
them to Kingston after breakfast.  I say we because I'm going to need a
copilot to help me with the checklists and navigating.  Do you know anyone
around here who may be interested?"

Daniel beamed.  "Of course!  I would love to copilot."

Uncle Rick chuckled.  "I knew you would."

Bob still looked concerned.  "We can get a ride from the Kingston Airport
home and I can drive my car while there but my work truck would be here.

Uncle Rick nodded.  "Hopefully your work here is just beginning.  If five
days will be enough for you to calculate the estimates for the solar
project, I could fly you back here on Friday, after Christopher gets out of
school.  You guys can spend the weekend again and drive back Sunday.  How
does that sound?"

Bob was thrilled.  "It's more than enough time to calculate the estimate.
That sounds like a plan.  What do you think, Christopher?"

Christopher grinned and looked at Cody.  "Yes, we should do that so I can
be with my boyfriend again."

Everyone chuckled at Christopher's enthusiasm.

At 9:00 A.M. Bob and Christopher said their good-byes and thanked everyone
for their hospitality.  Christopher and Cody and said their loving
farewells in Cody's room before gathering in front of the house with the
rest of the family.  Uncle Rick, Bob, Daniel and Christopher climbed in
Uncle Rick's truck to drive to the airport.  Cody felt tears in his eyes as
his boy looked out the back window and waved.  Uncle Rick stopped the truck
half way to the gate.  Christopher opened the door, climbed out and ran
back to Cody.  He gave him one last embrace, passionately kissed him
goodbye, and ran back to the truck.  Cody, with tears running down his
cheeks giggled with happiness.  Everything was as it was supposed to be in
the world.

- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -

Author's notes:

Thanks to the raging windstorm The Rhyolite and Sanchez Ranches are going
green. Uncle Rick and Cody are excited about seeing more of Bob and
Christopher McCain.  Could this be love at first sight for all four of
them?  What is up with Wendy Stewart?  It's a good thing Cody knew she sure
wasn't supposed to be in his life more than just being a classmate.  Daniel
has turned 18 years old and is now an adult.  With Jason, the love of his
life and Uncle Rick providing life-long love and a promising future, along
with his inheritance, can it get any better?  How is the
F.B.I. investigation of Cedarline and the church coming along?  Has the
class action lawsuit been filed?  What is to become of Daniel and Erik's
mother?  Will justice prevail?


Thanks to readers Vern, John H., Bobby Joe, Duke, Chub Bear, John K.,
T.S.L., Martin, George, and Todd for your kind emails.

Thank you also to my anonymous S.L. friend and to Mark for your much
appreciated help with this chapter.

I welcome any respectful comments.  Please send me an email and tell me
what you think about the story.  Thanks!

rhyolite221@outlook.com