September 24th Later Still by Littlewing1957
Jack led Ennis to a site that was not only secluded, but so beautiful as to stop the heart. He placed his brand new tent down on the ground to be assembled later. Ennis found a place to sit on a fallen branch right at the bank of a raging stream. Looking straight up into the heavens, with his hat on the ground by his side, Ennis felt strangely at peace. Jack preferred to look at Ennis.
Jack took Ennis’ hand in his and squeezed tightly. He needed something strong to anchor himself as he asked the million dollar question.
“We can make the cow and calf operation work, Friend,” Jack began. “Look, I’ve worked at my father-in-law's dealership for years, learned a little bit about how to run a business. I can take classes at night at the community college to learn what I don’t know.” Jack squeezed Ennis’ hand tighter when he noticed a slight tremble.
“What do you say, Cowboy? Come away with me. I’ll leave them, Friend. I’ll leave everything for you.” Jack’s eyes were downcast and watery. He was not used to baring his soul in this way, and terrified at being rejected again. But he had to try. The sweet life was worth fighting for.
“And what will we do for money?” It was Ennis, fully concentrating now.
“My father-in-law will give me a good amount of money to leave town - he as much as said it. Friend, we can use that money as a down payment on a ranch. With the cattle we can buy, we can build up a pretty nice business.” Jack was excited now.
“And the best part is, we can be comfortable. Being our own boss means we’ll have time to go camping, fishing, practically whenever we want. It can be just like this!” Jack pointed to the unspoiled surroundings.
“We can build a cabin, right here,” Jack blurted. Ennis smiled at his lover and placed his hat on his head.
“Well, I see you have a plan, Rodeo,” Ennis teased.
He had no real intention of going along with Jack’s scheme, but he was not ready to hurt him, either. Ennis hated himself for allowing Jack to continue, felt it might be cruel to lead him on, but Ennis was curious to see how far Jack would go. He would end the foolishness in due time – the right time.
“Let me think on it, Jack.” Ennis whispered.
" Now, before we put up that tent, show me again how you were eating those ribs." Jack laughed and rose to fetch the food from Black Angus, but Ennis stopped him.
“No, I mean, show me down here.” Ennis pointed to his crotch, and winked at his lover. Jack smiled knowingly and shook his head. He lowered himself between Ennis’ legs and reached for his zipper…
To be continued…