Him Who Made The Seven Stars
By
Waddie Greywolf
Chapter
50
"But, good my brother, do not, as some ungracious pastors
do. Show me the steep and thorny way to heaven whilst like a
puffed and reckless libertine himself the primrose path of
dalliance treads and wrecks not his own." ~ Billy Bob
Shakespeare ~ Stratford upon the Guadalupe
It was getting late and Billy didn't want to wear out his welcome
by staying too long. They established a firm foundation of trust
and interest in each other and what they might exchange with their
families. Etienne becoming Billy Daniels slave bound them together
as family not quite like a marriage, but in many ways an even
more solid bond. Billy told Etienne to remain with his family, but
for them to come for Saturday afternoon barbecue and hoe-down and
to be sure to bring his squeeze-box. The Boudreaux offered Billy
Coo-zone Veed's home-brew fiddle, but he graciously declined.
Billy told them it was fine where it was,
and he hoped one day soon, Stan Breedlove would reclaim it for his
own. Billy also warned the family, if they came for the Saturday
festivities they were not to say anything about Stan Breedlove to
his granddad or older brother. They assured Billy they wouldn't.
They understood Billy was hoping to surprise Oatie and
Elmer.
It was hard for Maw-Maw Boudreaux and the Howlers to say goodbye
to Randy and Billy. Little Dashaway cried when Randy hugged and
kissed her on her forehead. She made him promise three times he
would come with Mr. Daniels the next time he came to Erna. Billy
reassured her he wouldn't think of coming to Erna without his
little brother. He also made arrangements for one of his watchers
to come to the Boudreaux's back door a couple of times a week to
feed Dashaway more milk until her condition was more stable. He
would also have to check her blood once a month for a year.
Etienne and the Boudreaux family invited Ray to spend some time
with them, but he noticed they didn't seem to have a lot of room.
He explained to his buddy he was anxious to see Master Billy's
ranch and get started with his new life. He promised to return
when Master Billy and his men came again. The cowboys and beasties
climbed into the big ranch van and left Erna to return to the
Daniels' ranch. Billy asked Clyde to drive so he could sit and
talk with his family on the way back. He held Randy in his lap.
Billy was particularly proud of his little brother and liked
having him around. He always felt a twinge of regret in his heart
every time they parted to go their separate ways in life, but it
always seemed to make reuniting all the more wonderful for them.
The men talked of many things and about when they would plan a
trip to the hinterlands of Northern Oregon to pay a visit to
Coo-zone Veed and his ugly husband Coo-zone Cleet.
Bubba and Jack brought up the subject of Bubba and Earl's old Army
buddy Erin Mascaro. Bubba explained his buddy was as nice and
pleasant a man as you could wish to have for a friend, but one
drink of alcohol would turn him in to an unpleasant, foul mouthed,
paranoid, mean spirited monster he never seemed to be able to
control. It got him in a lot of trouble and eventually landed him
in prison on a fifteen year sentence for armed robbery. They told
Billy how Womack was blackmailing Earl to get him to do what he
wanted to find out personal information on Bubba and Billy, if he
could.
"Our problem is, we want to talk with Erin ourselves, but we don't
have anyway to know if he's telling us the truth if he denies he
told Clarence he would retract his confession and put the finger
on Earl as his accomplice. It would just be hearsay, his word
against Womack's," Jack lamented.
"Not necessarily," Nick said, "Billy has contacts on both major
worlds who have been keeping video watches on Clarence since he
came to Mason several years ago. Our staff was able to score a
video of Orville Higginbothem's conversation with his job foreman
about killing Enoch Redbone which helped convict him. Billy can
have his staff put in a request for videos of any visits to your
friend made by Womack. It might confirm what he said, or if it
don't, you'll know he's a liar trying to manipulate anyone he can
to extort money or a better position for himself," Nick said.
"Would you want your buddy for a slave?" Billy asked.
"No. It wouldn't work for me. Jack asked me the same question
about Earl and I told him no. I would allow my feelings to get in
the way. However, I would buy both if you would accept them as
punishment slaves," Bubba replied.
"Keep your money, Cowboy, if you think your buddy is worthy enough
to become one of my slaves, let me know, and I'll have my staff
get in charge with the prison immediately. Same applies with
whatever comes of Earl's hearing," Billy said, "I'll have my staff
contact our uncles' staff on Retikki Prime as soon as we return
for the other information you need on Womack and your buddy,"
Billy said.
When they arrived back at the ranch the family was just sitting
down to have dessert and Billy's crew was right on time to join
them. Billy introduced his new slave, Ray Escobar, to the family.
Ray was impressed he was treated like any other member of Master
Daniels' family. Slaves and freemen sat down together to enjoy a
sweet treat with coffee and good conversation. While they were
conversing, they were joined by Billy's staff. Aunt Helen had a
DVD in a plastic case she handed to Billy across the table.
"What's this, Aunt Helen?" Billy asked.
"It seems some off world helpers have provided you, my nephew, and
Mr. McCormack with some delicate
information regarding Clarence Womack," Helen replied.
"Have you reviewed it?" he asked.
"Yes, sir, your entire staff and most of the family here watched
it. It was too good not to share. It seems they caught Clarence
Womack in flagrante delicto," Helen replied and giggled.
"So what? I don't bathe ever' day myself," Bubba declared.
"Tell us something we don't know, Bubba," Tron said drolly, and
everyone laughed.
"No, no, Bubba. It's a Latin legal term. In flagrante delicto
means they caught Womack red-handed breaking the law, lying about
something, or caught in the act of illicit sexual intercourse,"
Jack explained.
"Oh, well, never mind. Ain't that why I pay you the big bucks,
Brother, to get my foot out of my mouth?" Bubba asked Jack and
laughed.
"Yes, but that extraction was particularly expensive. I had to
hire a twenty-mule team plus driver," Jack shot back and laughed.
The whole family broke up.
"Anyone think them Ancients is try'n to tell us something?" Billy
tossed out to his family.
"Yeah, they want to see Clarence Womack get his comeuppance, and
they're handing you the key," Tron Garrett said.
"Hear! Hear!" agreed Nathan.
"Steady, Randy. Easy, Buddy," Billy said, putting his arm
around his little brother, and laughed.
"I can't wait to see what's on that disk. Think we could take a
peek before we leave, Master Billy?" Jack asked.
"Don't see why not. Let's go into the parlor. We got the big
screen set-up in there," Billy replied.
"Uh, Billy, since we don't know what's on the disk do you think we
should exclude our youngest member," Nathan asked.
"Good point, Uncle Nate. I'll ask him. Do you know about them
birds and them bees, little Brother?" Billy asked Randy.
"Of course I know. I'm enhanced, big Brother. I know how to use a
search engine on the Internet. I seen all them pitchers and
videos. I know women are different from men between their legs and
men fit into women like lego blocks snap together. They ride each
other until it feels so good they explode. That's only one more
thing I won't be able to do until pooh-bear-tea," Randy lamented
and sighed, "Rory and Cal showed me their books on human
reproduction and explained it to me. Where? Out behind the barn
where else?" Randy made a joke and everyone laughed. He continued,
"Questions they couldn't answer, their daddy done a good job of
explaining to us. They's lucky to have Mr. McMartin for a dad, and
I'm equally lucky they don't mind sharing him with me. Tom told us
women produce eggs like a hen, but they don't lay them in a nest.
But I'm told they do get broody. They sort of slow cook them
inside their bodies like my sister's Easy Bake oven until they's
done and ready to shoot out like them pop'n fresh dough-boys. They
can't make a baby alone. It takes their husband to fertilize them
like a bull does a heifer. I also understand sex ain't only for
procreation. It can be for recreation as well. I know cowboys are
frequently, secretly fond of each other," Randy added and laughed
at the look on Billy's face.
"You's shit'n me, Cowboy!" Bubba exclaimed. "I never knew that!
You mean that's were I come from my momma's body done give birth
to me like a cow gives birth to a calf?" the big cowboy asked like
he was shocked. Bubba sounded so surprised and serious nobody
could tell if he was kidding or not.
"I hate to break it to you, Bubba, but rumor has it your momma
found you in the garden under a cabbage leaf," Tron replied and
everyone laughed.
"I knew it. What a relief. I never knew my momma, but I'm sure she
was a saint. She would never do nothing like that," he said,
winked at Randy, and they laughed together.
"Any one else have any questions for Bossman Randy?" Billy asked.
No one spoke up. "So does this mean we don't need to have us no
man to man chat about them birds and them bees a buzz'n in the
trees on that big rock candy mountain, and the nasty things they
do to one another?" Billy asked.
"Not unless you ain't clear about something, big Brother, then
I'll be happy to explain it to you," Randy replied and grinned.
Everyone laughed.
"Like what?" Billy asked before he thought. Every adult sitting
around the table sucked in air through their teeth and pulled back
in anticipation of Bossman Randy's reply.
"Oh, I don't know. Perhaps what wine goes best with cunnilingus
and which is better with cock-sucking," Randy replied and leveled
the room. They almost lost Zelma Redbone from her attack of
laughter.
"Randy!?" Billy exclaimed like he was shocked.
"Leave the boy alone!" Nathan jumped Billy.
"You just had to ask!" Kate exclaimed. It was like handing the boy
a loaded gun and asking him to shoot you," she added and laughed
again.
"'At's what I like about you, Cowboy, I can always count on my
little buddy to shoot straight wiff' me," Billy said, gave Randy a
hug, and stole a kiss. Randy giggled.
The men and several of the women joined Billy and his posse in the
parlor and they started the video. The first part was Clarence
Womack talking with Erin Mascaro, Bubba and Earl's combat buddy in
the Middle East. After introductions, Womack told him he was there
because one of the members of his church, Earl Hickson, mentioned
Erin's name as a good buddy from his days in the Army in
Afghanistan. Womack came to visit Erin to see if there was
anything he could do for him.
"No, I can't think of anything," he replied.
"How is it for you here in Huntsville?" Clarence asked.
"Not real good. I have a funny sounding last name. My family
immigrated to the U.S. from Tuscany in Italy. After the early
religious wars before the middle ages, many of the soldiers from
the Middle East, Arabs, stayed and married into the the
population. My name, Mascaro, in Arabic, al mu'askare, actually
meant 'soldier' in the Catalan language. Here, in the joint, I'm a
little too dark skinned to fit into the Aryan Brotherhood and too
light skinned to fit in with the Hispanics. I speak several
languages including Spanish, Portuguese, French, Italian, German,
Cajun, and a little Arabic. I'm mostly protected by the Aryan
Brotherhood because I don't rat on them nor do I have anything to
do with the blacks or Hispanics. I pretty much keep to myself. My
cell mate is an associate but not an actual
member of the Brotherhood, but I've never been asked to join. If
they can use you, they keep you alive. I interpret for them and
help with legal matters. It ain't ideal, but so far, somehow, I've
managed to survive," Erin replied.
Womack told Mascaro he knew men in high places, and if he
cooperated with him he could possibly get his sentence reduced,
perhaps even his time already served if Erin put the finger on
Earl as having been an accomplice to the robbery of the drive
through liquor store in Killeen. Clarence told him he found out
about it when he urged Earl to confess his sins to him in secret
so he could forgive him in the name of Jesus; but, according to
Womack, it didn't matter if he, God, and/or Jesus forgave him or
not, Earl was still guilty and should do time according to the
laws of man. If it was a shared heist, Erin shouldn't have to bear
the burden of doing all the time himself. If Mascaro would only
sign an affidavit Womack typed up before he came, in which he
swore Earl Hickson was his accomplice, he would take it to his
attorneys and have them submit the information to law enforcement
and the courts.
There was a hushed silence in the room as the man sat looking at
Clarence and down at the paper he was trying to get Erin to sign.
"What kind of monster are you, Preacher? You tell a man you'll
save his soul and forgive him his trespasses in the name of Jesus,
only to use the information to either blackmail him or send him to
prison? You ain't no preacher. You're a two bit con-man. I
wouldn't even call you a con-artist because there ain't no art to
your machinations. It's just downright dirty pool. You're nothing
but a self-righteous disgusting piece of shit! Yes, my buddy Earl
Hickson drove his car through the liquor store, but I held my gun
on him and forced him. He knew better than to fuck with me when
I'm drinking because I would have killed him if he didn't do what
I told him. Alcohol turns me into monster, but not one nearly as
bad as you. At least when I sobered up, I realized what I done
weren't right, and I tried to make amends for my stupidity.
"Why would I want to do something like that to Earl? Any preacher
who would do such an underhanded thing to a member of his
congregation would never gain my trust with empty promises to
reduce my sentence. You's a clown and a charlatan, little man.
Earl Hickson is twice the man you'll ever be. He crawled across a
hot area some fifty yards or more to grab me by my collar and drag
me back behind enemy lines so the field medics could patch me up
and load me onto an ambulance to get me back to base. He saved my
life. You think I would rat out a buddy who would risk his own
gotdamn life to save my worthless butt? Not in your happiest
dreams, fuck head!" Erin Mascaro got up, turned, and told the
guard he never wanted to see Womack's face again. Take him back to
his cell.
Billy paused the video. There was a heavy silence in the room.
Bubba wasn't crying, as such, but tears were running down his
cheeks. "I gotta' do some'um for Erin," he said softly not
addressing anyone in particular.
"I couldn't agree more, Brother," Billy replied quietly, "We'll
talk later," he added.
The rest of the disk was five videos of close encounters of
Clarence Womack with five different married women in his
congregation. Billy just allowed his family to read the captions
of who and what each video was about without watching much of the
action. What little they saw, they agreed Clarence was a pig; a
disgusting and uncompassionate sex partner. The folks gathered in
the room knew the ladies well who were Womack's partners in the
videos and remarked they were the church women who ignored and
acted holier than them. Here they were on a big screen, in living
color, in surround-sound, giving themselves to a man who claimed
to be a representative of God Almighty while sounding like a pig
in a wallow getting himself a fine piece of pork.
"Only a sow would lay down with a pig," Nathan said with disgust.
"Some women will prostitute themselves to be close to power
whether it's real or fake," Zelma Redbone observed, and the other
ladies agreed with her.
The very last video was a shocker for the men, and a couple of the
ladies. It was Clarence fucking the wife of one of the biggest,
orneriest, meanest, root'n-toot'n, buckaroos in the county, Kit
Crocker. At least he was at one time, until his wife dragged him
kicking and screaming to one of Womack's hell fire and damnation
revival meetings in the dead of summer. In a weak moment, the big
cowboy agreed he would attend to keep peace in his family.
Unfortunately for him, Kit Crocker caught a near terminal case of
revealitus better known as dat' ol' time religion. As Crocker
sat listening to Womack rant and rave about his soul burning
forever and ever in a lake of fire, he could feel the fires of
hell coming up through the bottom of his cowboy boots from the
ground in the great tent which was set up to hold large crowds.
That evening, at the altar-call, as the congregation quietly sang,
"Silently, tenderly, Jesus is calling; calling for you and for me
" Kit Crocker answered the call and gave his'self to Jesus, God,
and Clarence Womack. (It was a package deal. A cowboy's ticket to
heaven with easy low monthly payments. No refund if you take a
wrong turn and death bed confessions don't count.) Crocker became
Womack's personal body guard, holy bully, and right hand apostle
while Crocker's wife was elevated to a higher status in the church
as Clarence's secretary.
Kit Crocker was a loud mouthed bully and looked like a living copy
of Yosemite Sam complete with long strawberry-blonde hair,
full beard, and handlebar mustache, a huge hat what made him look
like the western version of the flying nun. The big cowboy loved
to stroll around the town square with his two six guns around his
waist and strapped to his legs like he was a real gunslinger from
the turn of the century. He'd wear his spurs and put his boots
down heavy when he walked to sound impressive. His complete
appearance said he was a mean-ass hombre, with whom you did not
want to fuck. He weren't afraid of nothing or nobody well,
almost. There was one man in the county Kit Crocker would back
down from, and he was known as the bull of the hill country.
At a cowboy gathering, Crocker mentioned in passing as a cutting
slur, he didn't care how great an athlete Oatie Breedlove was,
Elmer's grandson was a filthy sodomite, and his son, Pete, was
highly suspect of falling between the cracks. Crocker went on to
say, it was too damn bad the great bull couldn't produce a line of
real men or maybe he weren't one his'self. When the smoke cleared,
and they pulled Elmer off Crocker, there were only a couple of
bones in his body which weren't broke. Several said if they didn't
stop Elmer, he would have killed the nasty, foul mouthed poor
excuse for a cowboy.
Elmer said as one last vicious parting shot, "You finally done
went and shot your fucking mouth off one too many times, Crocker.
All these years I promised to keep your real name a secret; the
name yore' crazy momma done give you and put on your birth
certificate, but no more! You done stepped over the line of common
decency when you called my grandson a sodomite. It ain't the
cowboy way, but then, how would you know? You ain't never had no
daddy or a man what cared enough about you to teach you about it.
You's born out of wedlock to a crazy woman what was a psychopathic
collector of cute little critters she found on the Internet.
"What we got here, is a clown what features his'self the last of
the real, honest-to-God, red blooded American cowboys who knows a
homo from a real man when he sees one, but still gets hot and
bothered when he's around a good look'n ewe. H'it ain't no wonder.
A man's name often defines who or what he is. You thought a boy
named Sue was bad? His momma unwittingly give him the right name
to create such an uncharitable asshole. You men wanna' know what
H. K. Crocker really stands for? You wanna' know what his momma
named him? Wait for it! H. K. stands for Hello Kitty Crocker!"
Elmer exclaimed at the top of his voice and bellowed with
laughter. "I shit you not! 'At ain't no cowboy bull, neither! It's
writ large on his gotdamned burf-certificate: Hello Kitty
Crocker!" Elmer shouted for all to hear and roared with laughter.
The big defeated cowboy shed tears which mixed with his blood and
other unmentionable body fluids. His secret was out one he
fiercely protected for many years. Crocker never forgave Elmer for
exposing his secret, but he made damn sure he never challenged the
bull of the hill country again. From that day on, when Kit Crocker
came around Elmer Breedlove, it was with his hat in his hand. The
pity was, like the closeted homophobe, Bryan Fischer, Kit Crocker
was frequently, secretly fond of other cowboys. He would look and
feel lust in his heart, but never let his urges get the better of
his inner man well, almost never. There was that one time, years
ago when they were young cowboys together on a two week round-up,
in a weak moment, he agreed to lay beneath the bull of the hill
country and recalled the experience with fond memories.
* * * * * * *
"My God in heaven!" Nathan said almost in a whisper. "We gotta'
show this to Elmer, Son," he said to Billy.
"Agreed, Uncle," Billy replied.
"I wonder how Master Bull will react?" Randy asked.
"With compassion and empathy for the big cowboy," Billy replied,
"Once't he's had his say, I ain't never know'd that big man to
hold a grudge," he added.
"Hosanna?" Randy asked softly.
"In the highest, Bossman," Bubba replied.
* * * * * * *
It was getting late and Bubba needed to get Jack and Brute home.
They planned a trip to Huntsville the next morning to visit Erin
Mascaro.
"You shouldn't go cold, Bubba," Billy said.
"What do you mean by 'cold'?" Bubba asked.
"I think he means unannounced. Arriving without giving the prison
staff notice. We don't even know if we can visit tomorrow. They
may have only one or two days a week between certain hours," Jack
explained.
"Makes sense," Bubba said.
"Let Aunt Helen stay with us this evening, and we'll get our staff
on it first thing in the morning. You men come for breakfast, and
we'll have more information for you at that time," Billy promised.
"I guess I should start considering decorating my bedroom at your
place, Bubba. When we gonna' make a trip to Brady to buy me a
bed?" Jack asked and grinned.
"As soon as we take care of this project, Brother. If we keep
going at this pace, I may need a bed at your place as well," Bubba
allowed.
"Plenty of room. Pick it, and it's yorn', Brother or you could
bunk it in with Satan and Matilda. They keep asking when you's
coming back with another love offering for them. I think they's
done gone sweet on you," Jack said and laughed.
"Ain't no doubt I'd be the safest hombre on the ranch," Bubba
said, and they laughed.
Jack explained his guard geese to the family, and they shared a
good laugh. Everyone had their own guard geese tale to tell.
Bubba, Jack, and Brute said their farewells and left. They
promised to be be back by seven A.M.
* * * * * * *
"You tired, baby Buckaroo?" Billy asked Randy.
"I'm a mite tuckered, big Brother," Randy replied.
"Where you wanna' spend the night, Cowboy?" Billy asked.
"With you!" exclaimed the rest of Billy's family for Randy, and
laughed.
"Silly question, weren't it, Buckaroo?" Billy asked.
"Naw, I understand the line-cabin is your sanctum sanctorum,"
Randy said.
"My what!" Billy asked and fell over laughing. The cowboys were
laughing, too.
"You know it's Latin for holy of holies or a place of inviolable
privacy you don't like to share with others; a place where you can
be yourself without pretense," Randy explained.
"And you don't think I should share it with my little brother?"
Billy asked.
"I understand you need your privacy, Brother," Randy said
unconvincingly.
"Yes, that's true and you're right about getting away from
everything down to the line-cabin, but that don't mean I can't
share an evening wiff' my little brother and have him stay with
us; especially after he done such an excellent job help'n his big
brother with little Dashaway Howler this e'nin," Billy declared.
"Really?" Randy asked with his hopes rising.
"Cowboy's code of honor, little Brother," Billy swore, "Say
'goodnight' to all them good folks what love you, and we'll take
the cowboy-angel flight down south a ways,
Pod'na!" Billy said firmly.
"Yes, sir, Master Billy," Randy said and proceeded to run from
person to person for a hug, a quick kiss, to wish them a good
evening.
Billy gathered his immediate family and transported to the
line-cabin. Boomer and the twins were particularly pleased to have
Bossman Randy with them. They did their usual routines getting
ready for the evening. Poly and Cass took Boomer off to the
showers, and brought him back to groom him. Billy and Nick
stripped for the evening and invited Randy to join them. He
couldn't get his clothes off fast enough. Billy and Randy pitched
in to lend a hand grooming Boomer like it was what a family did
who had an unusual family member to groom. While they were
working, there came a knock at the barn door. Billy went and
opened it to see who was there, and there stood Samson and Maybell
waiting to come into their stalls. Billy let them in and everyone
stopped for a minute to welcome them.
They were out grazing in the lower pasture and didn't feel like
walking all the way back to the barn near the ranch house in the
dark. Maybell was with foal and Samson worried about her stepping
on a rattlesnake. Billy fed and watered them, and he and Randy got
busy brushing them down while the twins finished up with Boomer.
Randy never felt more at home. He loved his mom, his grandmother,
and sisters, but Randy's heart was either in the foreman's house
on his ranch with his watcher and Irin Ramrod or in the line-cabin
with his big brother. Nick went off to the showers and when he
returned Billy invited Randy to join him. Billy had reservations
about taking a kid as young as Randy to bathe him, but several of
his family encouraged him.
"Think back about the things you miss about your granddad, Son,"
Nathan urged him, "It used to be the highlight of your day to
share a shower with our old man. He taught you good hygiene and
how to be around a mature male without feeling self-conscious or
shy. Randy needs it as much as you did. I remember when me and my
brother were his age, Daws would get us both in the shower. He'd
take care of us, and we'd take care of him. Family grooming can be
one of the tightest bonds known to man. All you have to do is
watch one of them National Geographic specials on the great apes,
our first cousins, and see the great amount of time they spend
grooming each other. It becomes an essential part of family life,
and it will create a solid bond between you and Randy," Nathan
explained.
Boomer offered Randy some milk before he and his brothers went off
to the loft to bed down for the night. Randy readily accepted and
drank his fill. When he finished he gave Boomer a big hug and
kissed him on his cheek. Boomer and the twins said 'goodnight' and
went off to the loft in the barn. Randy crawled up into his big
brother's massive arms and proceeded to fall asleep. Nick and
Billy sat quietly finishing a cup of coffee Nick made them.
<< It feels so right having him tag along after me and you,
Tonto >> Billy sent to his pa.
<< I couldn't agree more, Kemosabe. It's been a long time
since I had anything to do with children. He's reawakened a part
of me which once wanted to have kids, but I knew I had to put the
idea aside because of being sterile. Now, there are other
possibilities before us and best of all, the potential of time to
accomplish some of those dreams. I'm looking forward to becoming
Granddad Nick to Billy Junior, >> Nick returned.
They talked some more about many things until they were almost
nodding off themselves. Billy carefully picked up Randy and put
him in the middle of their huge bed. Randy was an equal
opportunity sleep partner. Half the night he slept clinging to
Billy and the other half in Nick's arms. They went to sleep as a
family and woke up the next morning as a family.
* * * * * * *
After everyone was awake, they let Samson and Maybell out and
transported back to the ranch house. The household was awake and
busy getting breakfast ready. It was too early for Aunt Helen to
get any information from the prison in Huntsville. Their
administrative hours were from 8:00 A.M. to 5:00 P.M. Bubba and
Jack arrived just before 7:00 A.M. They had a long leisurely
breakfast and talked about many things. Billy was excited about
the possibility of getting in touch with Stan Breedlove and his
mate Cletus Abernathy. He wanted to know if Bubba and Jack would
be interested in transporting to their place as a couple of extra
sets of wings to help correct whatever was wrong with the big
Cajun man.
"I'd love to travel with you, Master Billy," Jack said, "I ain't
got much going with my practice right now, and it would be a good
distraction for me. I don't know what I'd do if it weren't for
your family and Bubba in my life. It's like I got me a whole new
reason for living dropped in my lap. I can't wait to see what's
over the next hill or around the next corner," he added.
"Me, too! Count me in, Master Billy. You need a stand-in for
Master Bull, and while I don't claim to be near the stud Mr.
Breedlove is, I feel comfortable fill'n in for him in a pinch,"
Bubba said.
"I got me a feel'n after Orville's grand opening, there won't be a
cowboy what will doubt your claim to be one of Master Bull's
finest young apprentice bulls," Billy said.
"Hear! Hear!" said several of the older cowboys.
About eight-thirty Aunt Helen came into the kitchen with Dorcas
and Dociean and a couple more of her staff. "I'm afraid we don't
have much good news to report, Master Billy. I'm certain my nephew
will be disturbed by what we discovered," she said and continued
without waiting for a comment, "Visitation is usually on weekends
and must be prearranged at least a week in advance, but
information about visiting Mr. Mascaro is a moot point after what
we learned. He unwittingly came upon a knife fight between his
cell mate and an Hispanic man and got stabbed pretty bad. He's in
the prison infirmary not expected to live. They said they did what
they could for him and have him stabilized for the moment, but it
would cost them too much to invest the money in needed surgery,
medications, and nursing care to save him. They didn't say as
much, but they made it clear, it simply wouldn't be profitable for
the new corporate owned prison system. They plan to let him die. I
asked if he could have any visitors, and they said only if they
were immediate family. I asked about purchasing him as a slave,
and they said the process would probably take longer than he had
left to live," Helen explained, "I'm sorry, Master Billy. I'm
sorry, Bubba," she said quietly.
"Did you tell them he was a war hero and has three purple hearts
and a bronze star?" Bubba asked.
"No, I didn't have that information, Bubba. I don't know if it
would have made much difference. Mammon is their God. They have no
compassion," Helen replied.
Bubba got up from the table, threw his napkin on his plate, turned
and walked into the front hallway. "Go with him, Jack. He don't
need to be alone right now. Give us a minute to talk among
ourselves," Billy said, and Jack was up and away to see to his
buddy.
"Jesus H. Christ!" Randy exclaimed in a disgusted voice. Everyone
looked at him with surprise, "I don't care what the man did to get
his'self thrown in prison. From what I'm hearing, he was
accidentally injured and not because he was trying to break out or
hurt somebody else. I certainly don't like the idea he's a Veteran
who risked his life for his country, was recognized as a hero, and
they plan to let him die because it would cost them too much money
to fix him up? I don't think so! I won't stand for it! Not on this
cowboy's watch! I don't need to talk or hear nobody else's
opinions. Ain't no time for talk no ways. While we talk the man's
dying. My mind's made up. It's time we done some'um. Lemme' borrow
your cell phone, Brother?" Randy demanded and held out his small
hand expecting Billy to comply. Billy caught Nathan and Tron's
eyes and saw them both nod to him in unison to give the boy his
phone. Billy took his cell phone out of his shirt pocket and gave
it to Randy.
Randy took it, flipped it open, and punched in a complete set of
numbers from memory. He pressed the button to activate the speaker
so the rest of the family could hear both sides of the
conversation. When he heard the deep male voice on the other end
answer he spoke, "Hello, Uncle Tom, this here's Randy calling from
the kitchen on the Daniels' ranch. Uncle Tom, we got us a
situation here what ain't real good for an old Army buddy of
Master Bubba and his brother, Earl Hickson. Just how tight are you
with the governor, sir?" Randy asked.
"We play golf every Thursday afternoon together, Cowboy. Why?
What's up, Buckaroo? How can I help?" Tom McMartin asked.
Randy went on to tell Tom the situation and didn't leave a thing
out including Erin was a highly decorated war veteran. His memory
was fool-proof. He also gave Tom a couple of arguing points.
"They's a bill coming up before the state legislature next month
which will be the first step in getting prisons out of private
corporate hands and back into the state's control. Them prison
owners ain't got the best reputations for doing the right thing.
The public is losing faith in their ability to ride two horses at
once. This situation could blow up in their faces and be the
pivotal incident whether the public votes one way or t'other,"
Randy said.
"That's a valid point, Bossman, glad you reminded me. Damn good
point! Neither the governor nor the corporate owners of the prison
need bad press right now. Tell you what, Cowboy, give me about an
hour, and I'll get back to you. Oh, yes, and by the way Bossman,
thanks for keeping me in the loop. You done just like I told you,
and I'm extra-special proud of you, Son," Tom said and
disconnected.
There was a hushed silence in the room you could have cut with a
dull knife. Randy slowly closed the cover on Billy's cell phone,
smiled, and handed it back to him, "Is that think'n outside the
box enough for you, big Brother?" he asked and grinned.
The entire room broke up laughing. Tron and Nathan were laughing
the hardest. Billy laughed and grabbed Randy into his arms for a
big hug and another kiss. "I gotta' be honest with you, Bossman, I
never would a' thought to bring Tom into this, but it makes damn
good sense. If Tom can't move the machine, nobody can," Billy
said, and yelled, "Hosanna!"
Everyone in the kitchen stood, applauded for Randy and shouted,
"Hosanna, in the highest!"
"I'll let you take it from here, big Brother," Randy said quietly.
"Oh, no you don't! Like hell you will! This is your show, Bossman.
You see it through to its conclusion no matter what the outcome.
Your big brother fumbled, you picked up the ball, now run with it.
Show me what you got, Buckaroo," Billy challenged him. Randy just
grinned real big and nodded his head he understood.
Bubba and Jack heard the laughter, applause, and more laughter.
Their curiosity got the better of them, and they walked back into
the kitchen to see what the commotion was about.
"What's going on?" Bubba asked puzzled.
"Nothing much, Brother, except our littlest buckaroo here done
come up with an idea I'd bet my boots will have a ninety percent
or better chance of working in our favor," Billy said and grinned,
"Bossman Randy just may save your buddy's life, and Erin Mascaro
might become our slave before the day is out. You know I don't
believe in prayer, but if you ever said one, now might be a good
time to test it and see if it works," Billy said and winked at the
men.
"I'll pray to them Ancients. I got more faith in them than the
myths and superstition Womack peddles," Bubba said, "Besides,
they's much better looking," Bubba added and everyone laughed.
Billy filled Bubba and Jack in on the details of Randy's plan.
Jack said he thought it might work if a little pressure was
brought to bear on the warden of the prison who was a notorious
corporate hack and a money grubbing son-of-a-bitch. He'd slap his
grandmother in a prison cell if he thought it would get him a few
more bucks in his pocket. It took Tom a little longer than an
hour. It was almost two hours before he called. Randy saw it was
from Tom and pressed the button to receive his call. Randy put it
on speaker. "Well, the governor thought it sounded like a good
idea and contacted the warden. The warden never bothered to read
Erin's file and didn't know about the man's Army record. He agreed
to talk with me about his release. If an agreement can be reached,
he's willing to release the prisoner to either Billy Daniels
himself or his representative. I's just about to call him, and
I'll keep you on hold so's if I need to consult with you I can,"
Tom said, "Since you answered, can I assume you'll be the one
making the decisions?" Tom asked a little unsure.
Billy spoke up, "He's got our full support, Tom. It was his idea
when the rest of us didn't have anything. I told him to run with
the ball," Billy confirmed.
"Good enough. I'd say you men made a wise decision. Hold on and
I'll get back to you," Tom said and put Randy on hold. No one said
anything. Everyone was holding their breath. Finally Tom came back
on the line. "Hey, Bossman, he's willing to release Mascaro today,
but he wants an additional ten thousand dollars cash in an
envelope for himself for his trouble, as he put it," Tom said
sort of hesitantly like he was embarrassed at the warden's blatant
greed. Bubba whispered to Randy he would pay the ten thousand and
Billy backed him up.
"Hold on a minute, Uncle Tom, while I confer with my family,"
Randy said and put Tom on hold.
"Do you men trust me or not?" Randy said quietly.
"Yes, absolutely, little Brother, we just wanted you to know the
money ain't no problem," Bubba said and Billy agreed.
"If you want to take over, here's the phone. Tell Tom your
decision," Randy held out the phone for Bubba. He started to and
saw the looks on the rest of the men's faces and hung his head.
"No, little Brother, Master Billy's right. You handle it," Bubba
said and turned away.
Randy pressed the hold button again, "Sorry for the delay, Uncle
Tom. Tell the sorry money grubbing bastard we will give him five
thousand in cash, but if we can't reach a deal within the next
thirty minutes, he will have protesters outside his prison within
the hour. We already got the VFW in our small town notified, and
in one day's time it will grow to become his worst nightmare. It
may even cost him his job. Is he really willing to gamble his
livelihood on a dying prisoner and possibly lose the vote to
control the prison his company owns? Or will he become known as a
good man who is granting a compassionate release to a highly
decorated war hero to spend his last couple of days with his
family and Army buddies. If he agrees to accept our offer, you can
tell him he has our word we won't say another word about the
incident," Randy said.
There were a few gasps from the folks around the table from
Randy's boldness, and Bubba walked out into the hallway.
"It sounds reasonable to me, Bossman, I think he's asking a mite
too much myself for what should morally be a compassionate release
in the first place. Let me give him your counter offer, and I'll
get back to you," Tom said and put Randy on hold. Tom was gone for
a few minutes while everyone in the room held their breath. In a
few minutes, Tom came back on the line, "I'm sorry, Bossman, I
gave him your offer. I carefully explained your situation and even
suggested he was not bargaining from good faith but was holding a
dying man as a hostage for his personal greed. He didn't like that
too much, but he steadfastly refused to consider your offer,
saying it was his way or the highway. However, don't despair, give
me a few more minutes. I'm suppose to get back to the governor and
let him know how it worked out. He has as much political interest
or more so in this case than the warden. The warden is just a paid
position. He ain't the end-all, say-all final Oompa-loompa dancer
in the corporate chain," Tom apologized, and they disconnected.
"I guess Bubba hates me now," Randy said about to cry.
"No he don't. He's disappointed. I know you're disappointed,
Buckaroo, but I gotta' give it to you champ, even though they
ain't dropped yet, you's gonna' have yore'self one heavy set of
balls on you when you reach pooh-bear-tea," Billy said, "Master
Bull will be proud of you, young'un," he added.
"What will we do?" Randy asked.
"What do you think we should do, Bossman? Remember, this is still
your show. You's call'n the shots, Cowboy," Billy confirmed once
again.
"Notify the VFW in Mason County and Austin
of a protest and why, and send every available body down there
with signs to march around that damn prison in protest," Randy
said.
"Then, that's exactly what we'll do," Billy backed him up.
Another hour passed, and it would seem everything was lost. Randy
went off by himself. He felt like he let his big brother down, and
he started to cry. He was sobbing his little heart out when he
felt two huge hands pull him up into two massive arms and Bubba
began to steal kiss after kiss from his little brother. "Oh,
Bubba, I'm so sorry. I should a done what you and Master Billy
told me and let the bastard have his way, but he just pissed me
off. I was coming from anger at his greed and lack of compassion;
I just wanted to lash out at him. Can you ever forgive me?" Randy
asked.
"At first I was a little upset. I wanted it to be over and decided
at any price, but I had time to think and talk with them other,
more mature cowboys, and they supported your decision completely.
They think you done the right thing, and you know what, little
Brother? I come to agree with them. You did do the right thing.
However, I will admit, I been praying to them Ancient critters
non-stop for my Army buddy. I really hope we can help him in
time," Bubba said.
"You know, I really should have more faith in them myself, Bubba,
and I should have more faith in myself. One way or another, this
is gonna' turn out like we want it to, big Brother," Randy said.
"Randy!" Billy hollered from the kitchen door, "You got a phone
call from yore' Uncle Tom," he added.
Bubba took Randy in his arms, carried him into the kitchen, and
sat him down. Randy took the phone and pressed the speaker button
for everyone to hear. "Hello, Uncle Tom," he greeted Tom McMartin.
"Howdy, Bossman. I called the governor and told him everything,
including your firm counter offer, and the refusal of the warden
to even consider it. I don't know exactly what happened, but the
governor told me he'd call me back as soon as he could. He did,
and the governor told me he contacted the head of the board for
the prison and told him to contact the warden. He did, and the
warden just called me a minute ago. Let me be the first to
congratulate you, Son, you done got chore'self a deal, Cowboy!"
Tom declared strongly and the folks in the kitchen went crazy.
They heard Tom laughing on the phone.
"I can't thank you enough, Uncle Tom. You come through for me just
like you promised. I can't tell you how grateful I am and how
happy you done made a lot of folks," Randy said.
"My thanks, too, Tom!" Bubba said.
"Mine, too, Tom," said Billy, "Hell, we're all so happy we would
smother you with brotherly hugs and kisses if you were here, but
we promise we'll save 'em up for the weekend," Billy said.
"You take care of that young man for me. One day, I'd be proud to
have him sit on one of my board of directors," Tom said and
everyone agreed with him.
Tom said 'goodbye', wished everyone well, and said he'd see them
over the weekend. The family was all over Randy and Bubba
congratulating them and stealing hugs and kisses. Billy threw a
set of keys on the table before Bubba. "Here! Them's a set of keys
to the big ranch van. Take Clyde and Cowboy Andy with you. Once't
you get Mr. Mascaro loaded and out of sight, they can wing up and
transport him to our slave processing center, and we'll be waiting
for him. We'll fix him up and have him up and around by the time
you men drive back. It's about a four and a half to five hour trip from
here to Huntsville. Drive safely, but take your time on the way
back. Once't we get him here, he'll be fine," Billy said.
Billy's staff got the money together and a receipt for the warden
to sign. Jack would act in a legal capacity as Billy's
representative. Just before they left Garth and Mack asked if they
might be of assistance and go along. They thought with two more
cowboy-angels the jump back to the ranch with Mr. Mascaro might be
easier on him. Billy agreed and sent them with them. The seats in
the large van were removable so it could also be used as a cargo
van. They removed all the seats except the one large bench behind
the driver and passenger seat. It would hold four medium sized
people comfortably, but with large men like Clyde, Andy, Garth,
and Mack it was a bit of a squeeze. They
didn't complain. Brute sat on a pile of blankets in the back.
It took them a little over five and a half hours to get to the
prison and another hour sitting around waiting for the warden to
come make the transaction and take them to the prisoner. It was
his way of punishing the men for not getting his way. He never
apologized for being slow or making them wait. He was the head
bull in charge, and he wanted them to know, even if he didn't have
as big a dick as the big men representing Billy Daniels, he had
more keys on his belt than they did which made him more important
than them. Jack was polite and courteous but all business. The
warden took them to get Erin Mascaro and what they found was
horrible. It looked like some butcher got tired of carving on him
and stapled him up like a side of beef to put him back in the
cooler until they were ready to cook him. The warden slapped his
face pretty hard to wake him up. Bubba almost jumped him, but he
caught Jack's eye and allowed the bastard's action to pass.
"Wake up, Mascaro, you're being sent home with these men to die,"
he said coldly.
"Not if we can help it," Bubba muttered.
"What? You clowns think you can do more for him than we did? Good
luck with that. Who do you think you are, some kind of great
healers? Angels, perhaps," the warden asked.
"Naw, sir, just enhanced humans," Bubba replied as he began to
move the gurney to the door.
"Enhanced? How?" he asked.
"We been trained in advanced bull shit detection," Bubba said
flatly and headed for the exit.
Jack remained behind to take care of the paperwork. When he
finished and got the warden's signature for the cash, he returned
to the van. Bubba and his men had Erin loaded. He came to for a
moment. "Bubba, is it really you?" he asked.
"Yeah, Brother, it's your old buddy, Bubba. We's taking you out of
this hell hole, and we's gonna' patch you up. You ain't gonna' die
on my watch. You'll be good as new before the sun sets. Trust me,
Brother," he said.
"I don't think I'm gonna' make it this time, Bubba, but I
appreciate you making the effort," he replied.
"Bullshit! Dig down deep, Brother, and hang on. You'll understand
in a bit," Bubba said.
They pulled away from the prison and traveled to the outskirts of
Huntsville. They found a roadside park and Bubba pulled down
behind a stand of Mexican bamboo. They activated the anti-grav
gurney and pulled Erin Mascaro out into the sunlight by the side
of the van. He was still conscious and watched as the four huge
cowboy-angels disappeared and reappeared in a flash. They were
fully fledged with their huge awesome wings. His eyes opened wide
and he got the biggest grin on his face.
"Are they gonna' take me to heaven, Bubba?" he asked.
"As close as you're gonna' get in this lifetime, Brother. You'll
be at the Daniels' ranch in a flash and a team of healers will be
waiting for you to fix you up good as new," Bubba replied.
"Other than you, who do I have to thank for this, Bubba?" he
asked.
"A little seven year old buckaroo named Bossman Randy Rutherford,
Brother. His fast thinking and bad-ass hard-nosed negotiation
skills saved your bacon," Bubba said and grinned, "Me and my
attorney got to drive back. We'll see you back at the ranch. Have
a good flight, Brother," Bubba said. The men raised their wings
over Erin Mascaro and in a flash of light they were gone. In less
than a couple of seconds, they reappeared in the slave processing
room at the Daniels' ranch where another band of angels were
waiting for them. Erin was sure he was hallucinating. This had to
be the end of the road for him. He wondered how this could be? He
was sure he was going to hell, but there was just something
different about these angels than he might have imagined; then, he
caught sight of another creature. He saw a huge red demon with
magnificent horns with the most fantastic body, a ring through his
nose and tits, and black leather wings wearing a black leather
kilt and a massive black leather harness. Then he understood. It
all made sense. The angels were there to prepare him for the devil
to take him to his realm of fire and brimstone. But this demon was
devilishly attractive. Erin thought, if he had to serve this demon
for an eternity he would look forward to each and every day. Erin
was confused and his mind raced to gain some sort of reality as he
felt himself slipping away.
* * * * * * *
Bubba and Jack enjoyed a leisurely drive back to Mason county.
They had a great deal to talk about. They stopped a couple of
times for food and coffee. Jack drove for a while to give Bubba a
break.
"I appreciate you coming along with me, Jack. It's made all the
difference in the world," Bubba said.
"I appreciate your kind words, but you don't have to thank me
I'm on the clock, Brother," Jack said and smiled.
"On the clock?" Bubba asked.
"Yeah, it means I'm getting paid by the hour for my services as
the Daniels' family attorney," Jack replied and smiled.
"Well, I'll be damned. Congratulations, Brother," Bubba said.
"They didn't have to. I would have donated my time just to save
the man's life, but Billy and his family offered me a deal I
couldn't refuse. I never considered them potential clients, but
then I asked myself, why not? They need legal advice as much or
more than the average man. Who better to fill the slot than a
cowboy-angel who knows about their ways and is part of their
extended family," Jack said.
"Makes good sense to me, little Brother," Bubba said, "Have you
given any more thought to representing Earl?" Bubba asked.
"Some, but I don't know's I'm gonna' have to," Jack said.
"I don't understand, Brother. What do you mean?" Bubba asked.
"You ain't gonna' press charges against your brother, Bubba. I
come to know you that well. You done already made up your mind.
You just ain't figured out a way to tell me," Jack said and
grinned.
They drove along in silence for a good while before Bubba
responded, "Damn, Jack you's downright scary sometimes," the big
cowboy said and sighed deeply.
"No, not really. It's just a matter of reasoning, Bubba. You know
if Earl gets convicted, it's his last strike, and he's a slave for
life. However, there's enough evidence against him the judge just
might not be able to cut him some slack and let him off without
some kind of punishment. The only good thing about our new
government is, they give the lower courts like we got a great deal
of leeway when it comes to more creative decisions. Fortunately,
Judge LaFleur is one of the more compassionate, people oriented
judges. He learned early, he has to live among the folks he
presides over," Jack said.
"You wouldn't hold it against me if I decided not to testify
against Earl?" Bubba asked sheepishly.
"Of course not, Bubba. Under the circumstances, if I were in your
position, I don't know's I'd testify against him myself," Jack
replied.
"In my mind, the most harm Earl done was to his'self and our
relationship. He'll always be someone I consider a brother, but I
ain't fool'n myself none. I realize we're growing apart. We're
going in different directions. I still consider him a friend, but
he ain't on the top of my list no more. I'll do what I can to help
him and his mom, but I ain't gonna' get sucked into supporting
them like before. I'll take care of his ma until he can get on his
feet, but if I see he ain't trying, I'll cut him off," Bubba said.
"It's probably the best thing you could do for him. If you keep
supporting them, they'll become used to it after a while and begin
to consider it their due. While it ain't always true, personal
charity can breed dependency, and by that I ain't talking about
welfare programs to help the poor and disenfranchised," Jack said,
"They both have a part to play in a great nation and strong
economy," he added.
The drive back seemed considerably longer than the trip to
Huntsville, but the cowboys were in no hurry. Billy was wrong in
his guesstimate of time. It was more like five and half to six
hour trip. They stopped for gas and filled up the tank at a small
mom-and-pop gas station, store, and cafι. The owner was a huge man
and related easily with the two big cowboys. After Bubba paid him
cash and thanked him, on a whim the big man introduced himself as
Ed Griffin but explained everybody called him 'Griff.' Bubba
introduced himself and Jack as his close friend and attorney.
"I'm closing down for the day, and my wife just took two Derby
pies out of the oven. Would you men like to come inside and have a
hot piece of pie and a cup of fresh coffee? My boy Tommy loves
his'self some cowboys the bigger the better. He's been telling
me for months about a couple of cowboys who will stop by, and
well, I won't tell you the rest because it's just crazy talk from
a young boy with more imagination than's probably healthy for a
kid his age," Griff said.
"How old is Tommy, Mr. Griffin?" Jack asked.
"Eight," Griff replied.
Bubba looked at Jack, and he nodded his agreement. "Shore,' Mr.
Griffin, we'd be downright pleased and honored, sir. I don't know
about my partner, but I love myself some Derby pie. Ain't had me
none in a coon's age," Bubba said.
They went into the small cafι area and saw Mrs. Griffin setting
two pies on the counter. She was a typical housewife with her hair
pulled back and tied with a cowboy bandanna. Sitting next to the
counter was a wheel chair with the cutest little boy either cowboy
ever saw. He was perfect in every detail except his legs were
shriveled, and he couldn't walk. Bubba and Jack took one look and
their hearts broke in unison.
"Oh, dear," Jack said softly knowing what must be going through
Bubba's mind.
"Hesh up, Brother!" Bubba said nervously and giggled.
"It's them, Dad! You brought them to me. I knew you would. Didn't
I tell you? The big one's Bubba Kirk, like Captain Kirk on TV and
the others name is Jack Mack, rhymes with Mack Smack like them
packets of bubble gum with cards what got pitchers of famous rodeo
cowboys on 'um," he hollered and got very excited. "Oh, yes, and
they's another big handsome furry beast with them maybe I
shouldn't say nothing about him, though," Tommy added.
"May I?" Bubba asked Griff gesturing toward the boy.
"Sure. He'd love for you to hold him," Griff replied.
Bubba gently picked up the boy from of his chair, held him close,
and sat down with him at the table. Mrs. Griffin was busy getting
cups, saucers, and slices of pie on the table.
"Tell me about yore' dreams, Buckaroo?" Bubba said and winked at
Jack. Griff didn't miss their exchange.
"What about him?" Tommy said pointing to the empty chair.
"We'll talk about that later. One step at a time, Son," Bubba said
firmly.
"These huge monsters come to me in my sleep. They're good looking,
but not nearly as good looking as well, you know. They's like
Bigfoots only bigger much bigger. They hold me and tell me
stories. They tell me I'm important, and one day they will send
two cowboys to me what are really enhanced humans. They's a new
breed of men they called cowboy-angels, and they will repair my
body so's I can become one of them," Tommy said.
"See what I mean?" Griff asked quietly.
"Tommy dreams are dreams, Son," Mrs. Griffin said.
"Yes, but this man is named 'Bubba' and the other is named
'Jack.'" Mr. Griffin said in defense of his son, "What are the
chances two men stop by for gas at the end of the day, I invite
them in for pie and coffee, and their names match Tommy's story.
The probability factor is staggering," Griff said. The men watched
Doris Griffin's face turn pale. "To be honest, I'm afraid to ask
them their last names," Griff added.
"Tommy's right about that, too, Mrs. Griffin, in a manner of
speaking. My last name is Kirkendall and Jack's last name is
McCormack Kirk and Mack," Bubba declared.
"Weee dogies! Cowabunga Dude! Close enough!" exclaimed Tommy.
Bubba took a big forkful of his piece of pie and put it into his
mouth. He got a look of pure pleasure on his face and smiled real
big when he swallowed, "Best dang Derby pie I ever done tasted
Mrs. Griffin. You done got a powerful good scald on your pie
ma'am," Bubba declared.
"Why thank you, Bubba, my granddaddy used to tell my grandma that
when she made something he particularly liked. She told me it was
the greatest compliment a cowboy could give a lady for her
cooking," Mrs. Griffin said.
"What do you think about our young cowboy's story, Brother?" Bubba
asked Jack and grinned.
"Like we been set up and broadsided," Jack replied as he cut
another piece of his pie to eat and took and sip of coffee.
"Did them big monster Bigfoots tell you their names, Tommy?" Bubba
asked.
"Yes, sir, they sure did, Bubba. The really big one " Tommy
started.
"Wait! Don't tell me. His name was Gregor. He was about eighteen
feet tall, and his bonded mate or partner was a bit smaller at
fifteen feet and his name was Albrecht," Bubba said.
"You're right, sir. He knows what I'm talking about, Dad! I knew
they would!" Tommy exclaimed and got excited.
"Did they offer you any of their milk?" Bubba asked.
"Yes, sir, but I ain't never told my pa or ma I drank their sweet
milk from their teats," Tommy said, "I didn't think they'd
understand. My story is crazy enough as it is without adding more
crazy on top," Tommy added.
"And what did it taste like, Son?" Bubba asked.
"Like warm vanilla ice cream before it's frozen. The best dang
milk I ever tasted in my life. It makes my mouth water just
think'n on it," Tommy replied like he was remembering a wonderful
treat.
"Well, he knows what watcher milk tastes like," Bubba said to Jack
and Griff.
"Have you ever tasted watcher milk, sir?" Tommy asked.
"Oh, yes, many times. I still drink it once't or twice a week
sometimes more if I feel like it. As you know I got me my very own
watcher who is also my protector. He's wiff' me ever' where I go,"
Bubba said.
"Why can't mom and dad see him, Bubba?" Tommy asked.
"I can't see him either right now. Neither can Jack. It's because
us humans go through a change when we's about twelve years old. We
lose the ability to see them when they's shifted just out of our
sight range. You can see my protector, Bubba's Brute, because
you're still a bairn. That's what they call children of any
species bairns. All children under the age of eleven or twelve
can see them even when adults can't," Bubba explained.
"I know he can make himself seen. He's smiling at me, and he just
told me his breasts are filled with his sweet milk for me. Dad!
Mom! Would you be scared out of your wits if Bubba's Brute was to
show his'self so's you will know we ain't lying to you," Tommy
asked.
"Will he harm us?" Griff asked.
"Goodness, no, Dad. They's the most peaceful beasts in the
universe and millions of years more advanced than us humans,"
Tommy replied.
"Does 'watcher' mean they're looking out for us? Like angels?"
Griff asked.
"Exactly, Mr. Griffin. Brute's been watching out for me since I
was a toddler, and I'll bet my favorite pair of buckaroo boots
Tommy's got his own watcher wait'n for him some'ers," Bubba
declared, "Angels, is a little different. They's another breed of
critter," he added.
"What do you think, Dear?" Griff asked his wife.
"I want to know the truth, and my dad always told me the truth
will never hurt you," Doris Griffin replied.
Griff nodded to Bubba. "Show yourself, my handsome beast!" Bubba
said firmly and Brute appeared sitting in the empty chair. He
opened his huge arms to Tommy and smiled the sweetest smile. Bubba
handed the boy to him and Tommy couldn't get his mouth around
Brute's tit fast enough. He began to make obscene sucking noises
which could best be described as pure pleasure bordering on
ecstasy.
"Watcher milk is the best natural food in the universe. It will
help Tommy considerably. It will relax him and make him ready for
what is to come," Bubba said.
"And that would be ?" Griff asked.
"You want us to heal your boy, don't you?" Jack asked.
"Are you men angels as in Angel's Underwear?" Griff asked.
"No, real cowboy-angels don't wear no underwear, sir. Tommy knew
the minute we walked in the door we were cowboy-angels so you
couldn't say he weren't aware," Jack replied and grinned,
"However, healing your boy comes at a price," he added.
"What's that?" Doris Griffin asked with fear in her voice.
"You must tell no one about us. We get another piece of pie, and
another cup of your fine coffee, Mrs. Griffin," Jack replied and
grinned.
"You heal my boy and you can take a pie home with you," she said.
After Tommy drank his fill of watcher milk, he became very sleepy.
Bubba asked Mrs. Griffin to prick Tommy's finger with a straight
pin, and he tasted Tommy's blood. Tommy never woke up. Bubba
carefully explained he needed it to gather Tommy's DNA information
to set him right. The cowboys winged up and spent about an hour
repairing and enhancing Tommy small frail body. When they were
through, they de-winged, and had one final piece of pie and cup of
coffee with the Griffins. They gave them their phone numbers to
call if they needed further help or advice. They gave Brute a huge
piece of pie which he ate in one mouthful and chased it down with
his coffee. True to her word, Doris Griffin wrapped the other pie
in foil and gave it to the men to take with them.
Brute disappeared to walk to the van but Jack told him to reappear
to make sure their beastie was aboard. Jack reached back with his
hand and took Brute's huge paw. "Thanks for your help, today.
Sometimes I forget you're around. I miss your handsome face when
you disappear. Remain visible. I enjoy knowing you're around,"
Jack said.
"Thanks, Master Jack. You did fine today for an untrained
cowboy-angel. You're picking it up fast as you go along. I'm glad
to help, sir," Brute replied.
"Call Master Billy, Brother. We's way overdue. I want to know
about Erin anyway," Bubba said.
Jack whipped out his cell phone and punched Billy's number. He
answered like he was excited to hear from them. "Where you men
been? We been trying to call every thirty minutes for the last two
hours. Are you okay? We expected you back a couple of hours ago,
but Clyde said I was off on my time estimate to Huntsville and it
took longer than I thought. What's going on?" he asked.
"We got waylaid by your uncle-in-laws, Master Billy," Jack
replied.
"How? Where? Why?" Billy asked.
"We stopped for gas in Hearne, Texas at a small mom and pop place.
Their son was in a wheel chair and was waiting for us. It was
Bubba's and my first healing by ourselves. With Brute's help we
managed to fixed him up and now we're underway again. We should be
there in a couple hours. How is Erin?" Jack asked.
"He's fine. He's sitting here in the kitchen having his third
no, make that his fourth help'n of peach cobbler with Blue Bell
Vanilla Ice Cream. He can't wait to see Bubba again," Billy said
and laughed.
"We's bringing our own pie Mrs. Griffin gave us for healing her
boy. See you in a while, Brother," Jack said and disconnected.
"Erin's working on his fourth help'n of peach cobbler with vanilla
ice cream on top," Jack related to Bubba.
Bubba laughed. "'At sounds about right. Mascaro always did have a
sweet tooth," he said.
"You look tired, Bubba. You wanna' lay down on the long seat back
there and let Brute ride up front with me while I drive?" Jack
asked.
"Naw, I'm all right for now. Maybe a little later," Bubba replied.
Bubba drove for another hour and let Jack drive the rest of the
way while he napped on the long seat. Brute rode next to Jack. It
was dark in the Van and nobody could see inside. Jack and Brute
talked quite a bit and their soft conversation with each other
made Bubba drift off to sleep. He didn't wake up until Jack pulled
into the gate and crossed the cattle guard. The guard cattle
recognized the van and parted for them. Jack hollered his thanks
as they drove by. They drove up to the house and everyone came out
to greet them, including Erin Mascaro. He was thrilled to get to
meet Jack and to see his old Army buddy under better
circumstances.
"I thought the last time I looked on yore' ugly face was the last
thing I'd see in this world," Erin said, "What have you fallen
into, Brother?" he asked in awe.
"More than you can imagine, Brother," Bubba replied.
"What made you come for me, Bubba?" Erin asked.
"I hear'd tell you weren't doing too well in that hell hole, and I
when I heard you was in the infirmary about to kick the bucket, I
knew I had to do something. I hope you realize you ain't no
freeman yet," Bubba said.
"Yeah, I know. It's all been explained to me and being Master
Billy's slave here will be like paradise compared to Huntsville.
You's right, it was a hell hole," Erin agreed, "I won't have no
problem being Master Billy's slave, working hard for him, and I
promise you, on my word of honor as a cowboy, I won't give him no
problems. I feel fortunate to be alive, Brother, and I'm
grateful," he added.
"Good. I hope you find a home here, Brother, and I'll look forward
to seeing you more often," Bubba said.
They took their pie inside and cut it. The ladies never heard of
'Derby' pie and wanted to try a piece. One mouthful and Kate
wanted to call the lady and ask for her recipe. She didn't have
to. The Griffins called Jack.
"Hey, Griff, we just got back, and the ladies here at the ranch
want your wife's recipe for the pie. What's up, Brother," Jack
asked.
"It's Tommy. He woke up in great pain, and we can't get him calmed
down. He keeps asking for you men and Brute. He says only Brute's
milk will stop his pain," Griff said almost in a panic mode.
"I'm gonna' put you on hold for a minute. I'll get right back to
you," Jack said and put Griff on hold. He explained to Billy what
they did, and he smiled.
"It's normal. His body's readjusting itself. We can transport
there and take Brute with us. I can check him out for you if you
like. We can stop his pain and let him drink more watcher milk. We
can take him a gallon of watcher milk to drink over the next day
or so and check in with him again," Billy said.
Jack punched the hold button, "Griff, we're on our way. Tell Tommy
we'll be there in a couple of minutes, and we'll bring our master
and Brute with us. We'll also bring a gallon of watcher milk for
him to drink for the next couple of days to help him adjust," Jack
said.
"It's several hours by van from here to the hill country. How you
gonna' be here in a few minutes?" Griff asked.
"Angel flight, Griff. Just cover your eyes when you see a bright
flash of light in your kitchen," Jack said.
They got everything and everybody together. Billy wanted Nick and
Boomer with him and Bubba wanted to go back to make sure he did
everything right. Of course, Jack and Brute went along. They
arrived in the Griffin's kitchen; four cowboy-angels and two large
furry beasts. Jack introduced Billy, Nick, and Boomer to the
family. They went into the boy's bedroom where Doris Griffin and
Tommy were waiting. Tommy took one look at Billy, Nick, and Boomer
and his eyes got real big. "You's Master Billy!" he exclaimed.
Your husband's uncle's showed me your face," he said.
"You're right, Buckaroo. And this big watcher is my husband and
nephew to them big watchers you met. His name is Boomer and this
cowboy-angel with a ring through his nose is my surrogate pa, Nick
Samuels. I never had me no dad when I's growing up so I chose Mr.
Samuels to be my pa," Billy explained. "We hear you ain't feeling
so good. Can I check you out, Cowboy?" Billy asked.
"Sure. I hurt all over, Master Billy," Tommy replied.
"I'm gonna' need a drop of your blood, Tommy. You got a straight
pin, Mrs. Griffin?" Billy asked. She got the same pin she used
before and serialized it again.
Billy quickly pricked Tommy's finger, got a good drop of blood on
his tongue, and healed the pin prick instantly. Tommy's DNA rushed
through his system. Billy and his posse raised their wings and
gathered the essence of the life force in the universe and focused
it on Tommy. Billy didn't find anything out of place or wrong with
him. The only thing he could deduce was Bubba and Jack didn't
quite know how best to focus their healing rays to complete the
job. Perhaps they stopped just a mite too soon. Tommy would have
eventually grown and exercised enough to grow into to their
changes, but Billy made sure they were complete. He put the period
at the end of the sentence, and showed Bubba and Jack what he was
doing. Once they understood, they knew they would know better how
to complete the next job with a little greater length of time.
When they finished, Tommy felt no more pain.
The cowboys and beasts sat around the table conversing with the
Griffin family while Tommy gorged himself on Brute's sweet milk
until he could hold no more and became very sleepy again. Billy
gave the Griffin's the gallon of watcher milk for Tommy. They said
their 'goodbyes' and transported back to the Daniels' ranch.
When they were gone, Mr. Griffin looked at his wife. "Our lives
will never be the same again, Doris," he said without nuance.
"I know, Dear," she replied, "at least they stand behind their
work. When was the last time you ever heard of a doctor making a
house call? They made a house call all the way from the hill
country. Now, that's what I call dedication. Do you think there's
a chance we'll become a part of their world?" she asked.
"I suppose. Indirectly. We have to believe what Tommy's been
telling us is true. I think he has a part to play in their world,
so I guess we might assume we will be included, too. Are you
afraid?" Griff asked his wife.
"Apprehensive, but not afraid. I don't get any bad feelings from
them or their beasts. Tommy is in love with them," she said.
"Who wouldn't love them? I got to admit I'm pretty damn fond of
them myself for healing our boy," he said.
* * * * * * *
Erin Mascaro remembered what Bubba told him about Bossman Randy
and became as enchanted by the young boy as anyone else who met
him and got to know him. He could ask Randy anything and get an
honest, intelligent, straight-forward answer. Billy put in a call
to Randy's mother and talked with her. He told her what a hero
Randy was earlier in the day and could he stay over another
evening. Ruth told him to keep him through the weekend, and they
would take him back with them after Sunday dinner.
"You tell him his ramrod and his watcher's got long faces without
him; especially, poor Ludo," Ruth said and laughed, "He looks like
he lost his best friend. I had to bake him and Ram
a batch of cookies to get a smile out of them," she added and
laughed.
"I know how they feel. I feel the same way ever' time I watch him
go home," Billy said and laughed with her.
Randy was thrilled to get to stay with his hero a while longer,
and they stayed together again in the line-cabin as family.
* * * * * * *
The rest of the week was spent getting to know their new slave and
getting him placed. After talking with Erin Mascaro and having his
family sit in on their conversations, including Bossman Randy,
Billy came to the conclusion, the man saw enough horror in
Huntsville and knew the unsettling and emotionally crippling
effect of breaking one's spirit from constantly having to be on
guard for your life. From Erin's own lurid descriptions of his
having to accept forced rape several times
at the whim of larger and stronger inmates made any rules about
sexual expectations and conduct as Master Billy's slave sound like
boy's camp. Billy decided Erin wouldn't need a break-in period
like he assigned for Orville's handlers. Erin already knew the
ropes and easily accepted what would be required of him. The mere
fact he would have his own, shared but considerably more private,
cubical for his personal belongings and sleeping brought tears to
his eyes. There were no bars on anything. In a way, it reminded
him of his days in the Army, and when he looked back on the past,
it was the only time he was ever truly happy with himself or his
life; except when he became the
bonded mate of a huge convict for several years.
Bubba's words kept echoing in the back of his mind 'I hope you
find a home here with us.' Because of his mixed heritage and
darker than average skin, it was always difficult for him to fit
in and adapt to living in close quarters with other men, until he
met his soul mate in prison, but he lost him almost two years
before. He didn't foresee it being any problem at the Daniels'
ranch. Erin's most astounding discovery was the freedom from the
mind numbing drudgery of the same old routine day after day. At
the ranch, there was always something new and interesting around
every corner, and work didn't seem like work when everyone was
pitching in to accomplish a shared goal. He was even more
astounded when he found out Billy only worked his slaves until
noon on Fridays, and the rest of the day was 'free-time' for
relaxation and to get ready for the weekend. He could only wonder
what the weekends were like. He didn't dare tell anyone he thought
living and working at the ranch was more like boy's camp compared
to the hell he lived in for eight years.
* * * * * * *
Friday morning arrived early at the line cabin. Billy opened one
eye and found Bossman Randy grinning at him. "Is that coffee I
smell?" Billy asked.
"Yes, big Brother, I got up to take a leak, and when I came out of
the bathroom, there were two angels in your kitchen with their
arms full of boxes. They set them down on the counter and opened
one to show me. They's full of Hosanna cakes. I gave them each a
big hug and a kiss, and thanked them. I done already had one while
I's making coffee. It was dang good, too fresh and still warm,
like it just come out of the ovens. Made me walk outside and shout
'Hosanna' it did," Randy said and giggled.
Billy grabbed Randy and tickled him. He fell over laughing, and
they heard Nick groan.
"Beds are for sleeping," he growled in his best big daddy voice.
"I'll remind you of that the next time..." Billy began but didn't
get to finish.
"I'm up! Did somebody say 'Hosanna Cakes'?" he asked and got Randy
and Billy laughing
"Yes, and we got Bossman Randy to thank for our coffee this
morning," Billy replied.
"Every buckaroo should know how to make a good pot of coffee,"
Nick declared, got up, and walked to the head to relieve himself.
As far as Billy was concerned, Friday mornings were the beginning
of his and his family's weekend. There usually wasn't anything of
an emergent nature planned for Friday mornings. Everything was
running smoothly with the Highland Shire project and, aside from
Jethro lending a hand to help heal and restore Erin Mascaro, Billy
was satisfied he had everything under control. Billy was going to
give Erin a week to adjust to his new surrounding and get settled
in, but he asked if he could get to work immediately. He felt
fully restored and hadn't got such a good night's sleep in ages;
he wanted to get started with his new life. Billy assigned him to
scullery crew every slave has to man one week out of the month for
his particular bunkhouse. They had several crew leaders who were
permanently assigned their jobs, and they scheduled the meals,
worked with Hank and Buck to procure food, and acted as chief
cooks and dietitians for their people. They were really only
responsible for two meals a day breakfast and supper. For lunch
everyone ate slave chow and a nutrient biscuit.
* * * * * * *
Saturday, shortly before noon the rest of the family started
arriving. By popular demand, the Tate's arrived early with their
winged canine family. The pups were growing by leaps and bounds
and each week they found some new mischief to get into. They ran
poor Miranda ragged. She was constantly after one or the other.
When Bubba introduced is old buddy to Miranda and she talked, he
almost shit his Wranglers. He started
laughing and couldn't stop. Bubba apologized to Miranda for his
rudeness. "That's all right, Master Bubba, we get that a lot," she
replied. Everybody wanted one of the pups. Several of the
bunkhouse foremen asked if Master Billy might consider a couple
for bunkhouse mascots. To their surprise, Billy thought it might
be a great idea, and he agreed to take it up with the sheriff.
The Cajun contingency from Erna arrived in three cars and one
large van. It was pandemonium for a while with Coo-zone this and
Coo-zone that and lots of loving Cajun greetings passed back and
forth. Billy double-checked and made sure Etienne brought his
squeeze-box along. He told him after supper they always played
music for their slaves and cows. Etienne knew what he was talking
about, but his family didn't have a clue. They would learn. Billy
asked how much time he would like to spend with his family. "I'm
here to stay, Master Billy, as of today, sir. I would appreciate a
brief visit from time to time. Truth is, they just don't have the
room, and to be honest, I'm anxious to get started with my life
here with you and my new family," he replied.
"Welcome home, Etienne, my brother," Billy said and opened his
arms.
Etienne went to him and returned his hug, "It's good to be home,
Master Billy," he replied.
"Did you have a chance to contact Stan this week?" Billy asked.
"I did, and I talked with him for almost an hour. I told him I was
calling from my parents home in Erna. I was back in Texas to stay,
and I was going to go to work for you and live on your ranch. He
said he had fond memories of you and your family. I was hesitant
to tell him about my story of being abducted and living on another
planet for the period I was gone, but I told him due to classified
information I wasn't at liberty to disclose my whereabouts during
those years over the phone; however, I would be happy to share
everything with him when I see him again. I talked with him about
his husband and his condition. From what I gather, Cletus is
wasting away more from a broken heart because of his inability to
walk, get around, and do for himself. He's almost willed himself
to die so he don't have to be a burden to David. Poor David is
almost as distraught as his husband. I asked if I might come to
visit. He seem hesitant, but Cletus was listening on the speaker
phone. He bellowed for me to come, bring my squeeze-box, and we
would play duets. I never met the man, but I felt like it was my
big brother yelling at me. My heart went out to both. When do you
think we can get away to transport up there and help them, Master
Billy?" Etienne asked.
"Soon, I hope. This coming week is the hearing for Earl Hickson
and Clarence Womack. I'm sure by now you've heard the gossip. Earl
will probably just have a hearing and allow the judge to pronounce
sentence. I think Bubba has talked Jack McCormack
into representing Earl at his hearing, but Womack's lawyers
mysteriously abandoned him. They told him to either get another
attorney, have the court assign him a public defender, or do like
Earl is going to do by throwing himself on the mercy of the court
and have the judge decide. Either way, they both will have a
hearing next Wednesday. Earl's will be in the morning at nine and
Womack's will start at one o'clock. Depending on how they go and
how much we're required to participate, I'm hoping it will be
settled by next Friday. Then we can aim for the first of the next
week," Billy said.
"Do you think Womack will opt for a jury trial, sir?" Etienne
asked.
"I think it will depend a lot on who he gets for an attorney.
Rumor has it, he has such a bad reputation his wife can't get
anyone to take his case, and we have some pretty damaging videos
of him at his nefarious machinations. It's in our family
attorney's possession, and he's require by law to surrender any
and all information he has pertaining to his client and Womack. He
can't hold anything back.
* * * * * * *
The afternoon and evening was a success. Billy wasn't sure if,
under the circumstances, the LaFleur family would come for the
day, but they surprised him. Jack explained to Billy the judge had
his life to live and no matter what was on his docket for the next
week, he could keep his private life separate from his public
life. Beside, he didn't have to express any opinions or listen to
any talk about either man in custody or the circumstances that
caused them to be incarcerated in the first place. The LaFleur
family seemed to be socializing freely and enjoying themselves.
Bubba hadn't had much time to be alone with Orville in several
days, but they made up for lost time on Saturday. They spent most
of the weekend together. Jack felt like a third wheel. He found
other things to do and people to be with. He spent a good deal of
time explaining things to Erin and Etienne about their new home.
Since they were both newbies to the Daniels' ranch they seemed to
gravitate toward each other. Jack felt an unspoken attraction the
two men seemed to have for each other and acted like an old maid
aunt supervising two young people who were courting. Erin was a
few years older than Etienne with a superbly developed body from
working out hard in the yard with the other prisoners. He was hard
and streetwise beyond his years; yet, he possessed an almost
childlike sensitivity he rarely showed anyone. He was a man of the
Earth and saw some pretty rough times in his life some of his
own making, but others he couldn't control. Etienne was a man of
the universe. He, too, had seen hard times and frightening
situations in which he didn't know if he would make it out alive
or not. Together, they seemed to complete the other half each
seemed to be missing. Nothing was said to that effect, but they
knew they would strive to see more of each other when they could.
Etienne and Jack were busy explaining things to Erin he never
encountered before.
After the Irin cowboys ate their evening meal and Billy's guests
enjoyed their supper of barbecued brisket, everyone automatically
gathered at the back of the barn for the Saturday evening Barnyard
Concert Musicale and Hoedown. Billy's slaves made sure everything
was set up just like he liked. He introduced his three new slaves,
Raymond Escobar, Etienne Boudreaux, and Erin Mascaro. They stood
and received a round of applause from the audience. Billy
announced they would only play a couple of numbers for the
classical portion of their program, and they played a string
quartet arrangement by Roz of the first eight variations of Bach's
Goldberg Variations. It wouldn't have mattered what they played,
they were playing to an audience of enhanced beings who soaked in
music, art, work, and play like it was a great banquet set before
them. Erin couldn't believe what he was hearing. He was stunned.
Young Billy Daniels was a far cry from the warden in the prison
from which he was just rescued. While he appeared to be a man of
the Earth, he was also a man of great compassion and talent. Erin
wondered if he really did die, the ranch was his heaven, or
perhaps a front for hell. He remembered the sexy demon who
assisted Master Billy in healing him and restoring his body to its
former condition. He wondered if he would see more of him.
Erin was surprised when Billy called Etienne to the stage and
handed him what looked like a small accordion. Billy let Etienne
run with it, and his musicians backed him up. It was like they
played as a group all their lives. They transported the entire
audience to a lost blue bayou, where the crickets were singing,
frogs croaking, 'gators growling, and fireflies lighting up the
night. You could almost smell the sweet fragrance of Magnolias and
the Ghost Orchids in bloom. It was a get down your fiddle and
rosin up the bow, take off your boots and throw 'um on the floor;
it was a Louisiana Cajun music Saturday night at the Daniels'
ranch and the audience went wild. There is no other music on Earth
which stirs such joy and wild abandon as good Cajun music, and
Billy's family was listening to the best. Etienne became an
instant celebrity on the ranch. They loved him, and they loved his
music. They couldn't get enough.
The whole day was one of great success and provided a lot of folks
with a sense of togetherness and joy in a time of personal
conflicts and confrontations. While everyone genuinely seemed to
enjoy themselves, Billy sensed an air of instability and unrest
regarding the immediate future. It was like everything was
building up to the the final 'smack-down' between Clarence Womack
and Earl Hickson. He wondered if his life was going to be one big
smack down after another. The big money was on Earl Hickson, but
no one knew for sure. It was the uncertainty of the situation
which caused a great deal of uneasiness. The Rutherfords came for
the Saturday festivities and would be staying the evening in the
ranch house. They would be returning to their ranch after Sunday
dinner. It was Bossman Randy's last evening with Billy's immediate
family, but he wasn't going to let it get him down. He
rationalized he had his own ramrod and protector to go home to. He
reluctantly admitted to himself he was beginning to miss them.
* * * * * * *
It seemed like the weekend flew by and Billy's family was left to
themselves. Aunt Helen went home with Bubba and Jack. She missed
her whales, as the two large buildings were becoming known. Jack
left to drive back to his ranch. He had an early morning meeting
with the judge to tell him Bubba hired him to represent Earl
Hickson. With Bubba's consent, Jack went by the jail Sunday
evening to talk with Earl. Womack saw Jack as he came through the
front office. He rang the bell and one of the night deputies let
him in. Womack tried to engage Jack in conversation and demanded
Jack stop and talk with him. Jack told him he was there to speak
with Earl Hickson.
"I need someone to represent me," Womack said intimating he might
want Jack to be his attorney.
"I'm sorry, Clarence, I've been hired to represent Earl Hickson,
and I wouldn't consider representing you, even if it weren't a
conflict of interest," Jack said.
"My attorneys turned their backs on me. My wife can't get a
competent attorney at any price, and the only other lawyer in town
is that old crone of a cowboy, Grover Parsnip, and he's
practically senile. He talks to himself, farts when he walks, and
digs wax out of his ears with a tiny spoon he carries on his key
chain. He's a disgusting old man. He dips snuff, he spits on the
ground in public, and he smells bad of horse sweat and cow
shit," Womack lamented.
"If I were you, I'd be careful what I said about people in this
community, Clarence. Mr. Parsnip is a fine attorney and only
appears to be a forgetful old cowboy. He's like a cowboy Columbo.
He peals away the layers of bullshit and gets to the heart of the
matter. Beneath that sweat-stained hat he's worn every day for the
last three decades, is one of the sharpest and gifted legal minds
it's ever been my good fortune to know. I consult with Mr. Parsnip
regularly on cases I'm not sure about, and he's never given me a
wrong piece of advice. You would be lucky if he would even
consider taking your case," Jack said.
"Shit!" Womack exclaimed, "Well, I guess he'll have to do. Will
you do me a favor, and ask him to come around tomorrow morning to
see me?" he asked.
"I'll give him a call this evening when I get home," Jack said and
walked back to Earl's cell. The door was open and Jack walked in
and sat down. They exchanged greetings. Earl was a little
surprised to get a visit from Bubba's attorney. When Jack told
Earl Bubba hired him to represent him, he wept. Jack talked with
Earl for sometime, and they pretty much laid out the ground work
for how they planned to present Earl's case before the judge. Jack
and Bubba decided on the way back from Huntsville they wouldn't
tell Earl about rescuing Erin Mascaro. When Earl had his hearing,
which just might be his trial if he throws himself on the mercy of
the court, then Jack would call Erin as a witness. He also
submitted a request for another search of Womack's personal files
to see if Womack actually created and kept the unsigned document
he presented to Erin at the prison. The sheriff and his deputies
returned to the Womack's home and found the document. Jack
mentioned several times during the weekend, he wondered why
Womack's congregation wasn't more vocal and didn't come to the
aid, comfort, and support of their preacher?
Jack ran into Grover Parsnip at the market on his way home. He was
still the same old Grover, but there was something about him which
Jack found remarkable. He was cleaned up, wearing a new set of
clothes and a new hat. He shined like a new penny for a man in his
early seventies. Jack praised his new look and the old cowboy
grinned like a school kid. "Damnation, you look good, Grover! If I
didn't know you as well as I do, I'd swear you were in love," Jack
declared and grinned.
"Then you don't know me as well as you thought, Son," Grover
replied and grinned from ear to ear.
"Wait! Don't tell me, lemme' guess. You done had a visit from some
great monsters what look like giant Bigfoots what told you your
day of restoration is at hand," Jack said.
The old cowboy's wrinkled leather face went from a ruddy red to
pale white. "How'd ju' know, Jack? You been messing around out to
that Daniels' ranch, boy?" Grover asked.
"Ever' chance I get. Come to my place for supper Friday evening to
start the weekend, and I'll share with you what I know. We'll have
the preliminary hearings out of the way, the smoke should have
settled, and we can sit down over a good meal and talk. You always
been good to give freely of your time and experience with me, and
ya' ain't never asked a damn thing in return but my respect and
friendship. You live by the cowboy code, and I've always admired
you for it. Lord knows, I try, but I won't never be as good a man
as you," Jack lamented.
"Shit! You's a fine man, Jack. What time, Son?" Grover asked.
"Six!" Jack said.
"I'll be there. They told me it would be someone I admired and
trusted, but I never expected it would be you. You's always been
the closest thing I'm ever gonna' have for a son," Grover said.
"Don't, Grover! Please! Not here! A mature cowboy bawling like a
lost calf over the produce in the Super-8 market wouldn't be a
pretty sight!" Jack admonished him.
"Why not? I cry over it ever' damn time I come to shop. The
produce in this gotdamn store is lousy!" Grover declared, "And
they ain't never heard of Parsnips," he added, and they shared a
laugh.
"Before I forget, I was asked to represent Earl Hickson at his
hearing Wednesday morning. I visited him in the jail this evening
and Clarence Womack asked me to ask you to drop by the jail for a
visit with him. I think he wants to ask you to represent him,"
Jack said.
"Jesus!" Grover spat out like a curse, and thought for a minute,
"Would it matter to you if I take his case?" he asked.
"Not in the least. I know you you're immune to bullshit. If any
man in this community can handle Clarence Womack, my bet would be
with you, Pod'na," Jack said like one cowboy to another.
"Is you a good cook, Cowboy?" Grover asked.
"I'll do my best to get a decent scald on supper, Dad," Jack
replied and winked at Grover.
"Looking forward to it. I may drop by the jail on my way home to
see what Womack's got on his twisted mind," Grover said as they
shook hands and parted.
* * * * * * *
Jack met with Judge LaFleur in his chambers in the court house the
next morning. He was surprised to find Grover sitting with him
having coffee. They offered Jack some, and he sat down to talk
with the men. Jack was amazed Clarence agreed to let Grover
represent him after the terrible things he said about the man.
They didn't hash out details, except Jack was certain Earl didn't
want a jury trial and wanted Judge LaFleur to decide his fate.
Jack didn't try to sway Earl either way, but he did mention a jury
trial could be messy. Grover said he was sure Clarence wanted a
jury trial. Womack seemed to think if Grover could pack the jury
with his church members he would get off easy. He also didn't see
anything wrong with what he tried to do to Earl Hickson. Grover
told him it wouldn't be as easy as Womack thought to 'pack a
jury.'
The judge asked Jack about evidence he gathered concerning the
case and was surprised when Jack told him the new cowboy slave,
Erin Mascaro, he met out at the Daniels' ranch over the weekend
would be testifying on Earl's behalf.
"You been going out to the Daniels' place, Judge?" Grover asked
like a young boy left out of the group.
"Yes, for several weeks now, Grover. Billy Daniels how much does
Grover know, Son?" the judge asked Jack.
"He's coming for supper Friday night at my place. He had a
visitation from them Ancients. I talked with Billy last night. He
said it would be all right for Bubba and me to tell Grover
everything," Jack replied.
"Grover -- Billy
Daniels and his what would you call them, Jack?" LaFleur asked.
"Cowboy-angels. What else?" Jack said.
"Remember the young boy who Billy Daniels was reported to have
saved his life in the parking lot at the Walmart
in Fredericksburg a couple of months ago? Well, Billy and his
cowboy-angels saved my grandson's life. Since that time, we been
out there for food and entertainment almost every weekend," Judge
LaFleur said.
Grover sat with a look of disbelief on his face like the men were
playing a shared prank on him. "C'moan, my visitors didn't say
nothing about no cowboy-angels," he said.
"Do you trust me, Grover?" Jack asked.
"I do. Most certainly I do, but I hope you ain't in cahoots with
this old varmint, my legal spar'n partner, to make an older man
look like a bigger fool than he already is," Grover said and
grinned.
"You ain't no fool, Cowboy, and we wouldn't do that to you. We got
too damn much respect for you than to do a despicable thing like
that," the judge backed Jack.
"I promise, Bubba Kirkendall and I will tell you everything Friday
evening," Jack reconfirmed.
"What kind of crowd you think we're gonna' get, yer' honor?"
Grover asked and grinned.
"Hang'n from the rafters! Standing room only!" Judge LaFleur
exclaimed.
"Really?" Grover asked surprised.
"You got several groups of folks what are interested in the
outcome, and the talk around town has grown faster than a prairie
fire out of control. Earl Hickson represents the common man and
Womack represents the elite -- don't do as I do, do as I tell you
to do -- Jesus ass-kissing corporate ass-lick'n one percent of our
society. Tell your friends to get here early and bring their own
popcorn and knitting needles. Madame Defarge brand yarn will be
provided for the elderly indigent," the judge said and laughed.
The men finished their conversations, agreed to the order and
procedure of the court, and went their way. Bubba spent the
evening with Earl. He called one of the night jailers and told him
not to fix Earl any supper, Bubba would be bringing him a belly
buster special. They sat and talked and ate together. It took all
Bubba had not to tell Earl about Erin Mascaro but he managed. He
did tell Earl he believed what he told him about the drive-through
robbery in Killeen.
* * * * * * *
Wednesday morning came and the Daniels' household was up getting
breakfast. They decided to leave an hour before the doors were
opened to the courthouse. When they got there they couldn't
believe their eyes. The town square was was packed with vehicles
of all kinds. One cowboy's family truck was broke down, but they
didn't want to miss the trial. He hitched his John Deere tractor
to his cattle trailer, filled it with lawn chairs for his family,
and hauled them into town. Billy had no idea it would be so packed
and several of his family were turned away because they were the
last in line. He heard there was more seating in the balcony
surrounding the room and his family went up there. It was a little
better but not much. Jack told Billy both Earl and Clarence would
be present for each other's hearing in case they needed to call on
them for information.
Clarence was warned not to lie because there was damaging evidence
contrary to his story. He told his part of the story first and
lied through his teeth. Grover gave him a chance to come clean.
Earl told his story. The young cowboy was straight-forward and
truthful about what happened and how. Not only did Jack manage to
present a case which proved Clarence was trying to blackmail Earl,
he was also trying to get classified, private information he had
no business having. Even the judge couldn't believe the hubris and
self-serving attitude of Clarence Womack. He asked Earl several
questions himself. "Just so I'm clear about a couple of things,
Son, you say you knew the Kirkendall barns were off limits for
you, and they are under Federal protection?" the judge asked.
"Yes, sir. I didn't know if they was off limits to me personally,
'cause I been in 'um a number of times with Bubba and his uncle.
With the death of Bubba's Uncle Brad, I wondered if maybe it
didn't apply no more. I actually didn't know at the time I took
them pitchers whether it still applied, but to be honest, I was
hope'n it did," Earl said.
"You were hoping the federal protection
still applied?" Judge LaFleur asked.
"Yes, sir. I done figured if I was gonna' have to spend time in
prison for some'um I didn't do because the preacher framed me for
it, I was gonna' make damn sure he didn't get off scot-free. I was
gonna' take a big bite out of his butt to remember me by. Hell,
from the looks of him, he wouldn't miss it none," Earl said and
the audience went crazy with laughter and applause for Earl. The
judge banged his gavel several times to restore order. He didn't
scold the crowd but reminded them this was a court of law and not
the Saturday afternoon kiddie matinιe at the Odeon.
"And you have proof the man, a Mister Erin Mascaro, was solely
responsible for the robbery of the drive through liquor store in
Killeen, Counselor?" the judge asked Jack.
"Yes, sir, the prison video-records every conversation between a
prisoner and a visitor. We subpoenaed a copy of the video which
clearly shows Mr. Mascaro refused to sign Mr. Womack's affidavit
and told him to his face, my client was not responsible for Mr.
Mascaro's actions. We also have Mr. Mascaro with us today up there
in the far balcony with his new slave owner, Master Billy Daniels,
who will be happy to testify on Mr. Hickman's behalf. Furthermore,
we searched Mr. Womack's files and found the affidavit he typed up
and took to Huntsville with him," Jack declared. There was much
whispering and gasps from the audience. The judge banged his gavel
again, but didn't say anything.
"Is there anything else pertaining to Mr. Hickson's hearing which
might be relevant to the court?" he asked.
"Yes, sir, Mr. Kirkendall has chosen to drop all charges against
Mr. Hickson," Jack said and another rush of whispers and applause
broke out in the courtroom.
The judge banged his gavel several times and looked over the rim
of his spectacles like an old schoolmarm at an unruly
classroom and smiled. "I really hate to be rude, but you folks
leave me no choice. May I be so bold to point out to you good
people, I'm the judge here, not you; however, the court does
recognize and agrees with your approval of the fine job Counselor
McCormack is doing to defend his client, and we certainly approve
of the more genuine Christian gesture of Mister Bubba Kirkendall
to turn his other cheek for his brother's sake. I will entertain
another moment of approval from the courtroom, then I expect you
to settle down," Judge LaFleur said, and they went crazy yelling,
applauding, stomping boots, and whistling for Jack, Bubba, and
Earl. The judge banged his gavel again and everyone got quiet.
"I have to admit, while your actions were not within the law, Mr.
Hickson, I have to admire your cunning to turn the tables on your
blackmailer. How did you come up with your plan, Son?" he asked.
"My daddy always told me: to know how a snake thinks, you
sometimes got to get down and crawl on your belly like one to
understand how he sees the world and what makes him tick. I done
like he told me, and I caught me a big ol' snake in my trap," Earl
said proud of himself.
"One last question, Mr. Hickson. Did you ever think of going to
your brother with your burden?" the judge asked.
Earl hung his head in shame. "Truth is, your honor, I been a
burden to my brother all my life. I done took him and his love for
granite. I'm still a burden to him, but I don't want to be. I'd
like to become my own man and love my brother for who he is and
not for what I can get out of him," Earl said. There was a deadly
silence in the courtroom. Bubba stood up and slowly clapped his
hands together. One by one, the other people in the courtroom
stood and joined his slow clapping until they were all on their
feet applauding for Earl. The judge let them get it out. They sat
down and returned to their quiet state.
"I think I've heard enough," the judge proclaimed, "I will make my
decision this week, and I will pass judgment next Wednesday
morning at the same time. Until then, Mr. Hickson will become a
trustee at the jail and assist the sheriff, his deputies, and
jailers with whatever tasks they might have for him. He may wear
his own clothes, visit with his friends and family, but he must
inform the sheriff or his staff where he will be at all times. He
must also return to his jail cell every night by seven P.M. for
the next week. Since we finished Mr. Hickman's hearing a mite
early, Sheriff Tate, you may return Mr. Hickson's civilian clothes
to him immediately. You don't have to be here for Mr. Womack's
hearing, Son, unless you want to be," the judge instructed Earl.
"Thank you, sir, I'll take it up with my attorney," Earl said.
"Wise man," the judge allowed and got a laugh from the audience.
"We will break until one o'clock. If you wish to attend the
hearing make sure you're here in your seats at one sharp," he said
to those in his courtroom and banged his gavel to clear the court.
The sheriff's deputies took Clarence back across the street to the
jail. Many in the community came around to shake Earl's hand and
wish him well. Billy and his family along with Erin Mascaro found
their way to the bottom floor. Earl broke into tears to see his
old Army buddy. They embraced and shed a few more tears together.
Billy, Bubba, Jack and Erin took Earl to the jail, got his
clothes, and took him to lunch at the Willow Creek. It was packed.
There was more applause for Earl in the restaurant. It was the
most attention he'd gotten in his life, and for the moment, he was
riding the crest of a wave.
Grover saw his client back to the jail and told him he would come
for him after he had lunch. He went to the Willow Creek and was
hailed by Jack, Bubba, Elmer, and Billy to join them at their
table. He was flattered and amused. He sat down right in the
middle of them. Earl Hickson and his old Army buddy were sitting
directly across from him. Grover knew Earl and met him a couple of
times with his dad when Earl was a younger man. He was asked a few
questions about how Clarence was handling seeing his world of
fantasy and lies come crashing down around him. Naturally, Grover
couldn't say too much, but Jack came to his rescue. "Easy, men,
Grover has the dubious honor of representing Womack, and he can't
say much or he might jeopardize his client/attorney privilege.
Let's have a nice lunch. I'm having Grover to my place for supper
Friday evening. Bubba and I will be discussing some things with
him he needs to know," Jack said, "It seems your uncle-in-laws
from Retikki Prime not only visited little Tommy Griffin, they
been play'n patty-cakes with my old buddy here," Jack said
motioning to Grover.
"Them huge monsters are relatives of your, Mr. Daniels?" Grover
asked.
"Call me Billy, sir. Yes, I'm married to their nephew, Boomer.
He's my bonded mate. I know it must be a lot to take in, but it
will become clear after some things have been explained to you. In
the meantime, welcome to our family, Mr. Parsnip," Billy said.
"Thank you, Billy, I have so many questions, I don't know where to
begin," he said.
"Don't worry, Jack and Bubba will fill you in on the basics, then
you will be ready for full immersion into the greater Daniels
experience," Billy said and smiled.
"Lord, you make it sound like our family is some great secret
organization like the Masons where they stick safety pins through
a man's tits during initiation," Kate said, "Pay him no mind,
Grover. You and I went through school together. If you don't
understand something you come to me, ya' hear?" she said firmly.
"Yes, 'um, Ms. Kate, and thanks," Grover said and
smiled.
Talk was lively, but nothing more was said about the family or the
trial. Elmer commented on the miraculous return of Etienne
Boudreaux and what a pleasure it was to get to see them again
after so many years. He looked at Billy as he talked as if he was
looking for some clue. Billy didn't give him anything. Billy
picked up the check for his couple of tables and tipped the
waitresses handsomely. They returned to the courthouse and their
seats in the balcony. Some older folks got several of their seats,
but they didn't say anything. Billy and his men decided to stand
and lean on the rail behind the back seats.
The hearing began and Grover reviewed everything from the previous
hearing and how it affected his presentation of Clarence Womack's
case. Grover had time to discuss Clarence's weak case with him
before they went back into the courtroom and asked if he still
wanted a jury trial. Grover stressed how blatantly he had been
caught lying, and there was a good possibility even his own
congregation might turn against a him. Clarence kept insisting for
Grover to call some of his chief leaders in his church as
witnesses to his good and Christ-like character. Grover tried to
reason with him, it was a gamble he didn't think Clarence should
take. It could backfire in his face, and he would find himself in
an even deeper hole. He reminded Womack of the old cowboy saying,
if you find yourself in a hole over your head, stop digging. Like
everything else, Womack assured Grover he knew better, and since
he was paying Grover's outlandish fees as his attorney, he would
do it his way. Grover reluctantly agreed to follow his wishes.
Grover stood and made a call for anyone in the community who would
like to bear witness to Clarence Womack's goodness as a human
being. One little older lady came forward, gave her name, Emily
Hardtack, and said she was a founding member of Pastor Womack's
church. She thought Pastor Clarence was a good man. She claimed he
was full of the holy spirit and one time healed her tiger cat,
'Mr. Wombly' by putting his hands on him and calling on angels in
some unknown tongue. She said she didn't believe a word of what
they were accusing him of doing and just wanted everyone to know
she thought he was a true man of God. Grover thanked her and she
sat down.
Slowly, a big cowboy wearing a floor length brown duster and a
huge cowboy hat got up and walked to the front. Clarence looked at
Grover, elbowed him, and smiled like this cowboy was one of his
main men and would set the others straight. Grover asked the big
cowboy to introduce himself.
"My name is Kit Crocker, and I'm here to say a few words about our
spiritual leader, Pastor Clarence Womack," he said.
Grover acknowledged him and motioned for him to go on.
"Mrs. Hardtack is a nice lady and is welcome to her opinion, but I
can't share her faith in our pastor anymore. As a matter of fact,
I know for certain he is a lying, cheating, fornicate'n bastard,
and uses his position to sexually prey on other men's wives. I got
proof he done slept with my wife, and I'm here to seek my just
revenge like it says in the Bible: an eye for an eye and
your life for taking my wife. I guaran-damn-tee-ya, he won't never
sleep with another cowboy's woman!" he exclaimed, opened his
duster, pulled a Colt .45 from a holster strapped to his leg, and
shot Clarence Womack three times in the chest. Clarence tried to
stand, but the impact from the bullets knocked him backwards hard
into his chair. His body dropped forward and his head hit the
solid oak table with a resounding thud. Clarence lay dying,
strangling to death in a pool of his own blood. His life flashed
before his eyes, but he was blind to his flaws. His anger and
internal rage overwhelmed him. He learned nothing from his
mistakes. With his last breath, he opened his eyes and saw a
fearsome demon with large horns looming over him, smiling down at
him like he was ready to take Clarence to dwell with him amid the
putrid stench arising from the fiery pits of hell. Clarence
secretly gambled there was no such place. He thought a belief in a
devil and hell was for suckers who lined his pockets with money
from their irrational fears. Could he have been so wrong?
End of Chapter 50 ~ Him Who Made The Seven Stars
Copyright ~ © ~ Waddie Greywolf
All Rights Reserved~
E-mail to: waddiebear@yahoo.com
WC = 20014
05/15/2013
01/09/2014
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