Still Another Chance ~ Book Four of Another Chance

(A Crossover with Priorities)

by Zarek Dragon

Author's Note: When doing a crossover between two stories, every effort is made to keep the stories interconnected yet separate. In some cases, this isn't prudent to the storyline. The chapters, Priorities Book II Chapter 22 and Still Another Chance 9, have some areas that are virtually identical, but different in many areas. Both authors contributed to the creation of the entire chapter. Please read both stories, you will come across many differences; some more subtle than others.

The day before…

They found Joe in the kitchen. "Uncle Joe," Patrick asked, "do you think you could take Trevor, Roger, Phoenix and me into town tomorrow so they can buy some of the things we'll need for the camping trip?"

"I don't see why not." Joe replied.

Waking up Monday morning, the boys went to get breakfast. Maurice, Brian, François and Ange were preparing it so that Henri and Marine could prepare for their trip home. As the boys were sitting at a table waiting, Zac and Jim walked in. Patrick walked up to them and asked, "Papa, Dad, Uncle Joe has agreed to take Trevor and Phoenix shopping to get things for our camping trip. I was wondering if I could go, too."

"I have no problem with it, but what do they plan to get?" Zac stated, "We have almost everything that you will need."

"Trevor wants to get a couple of ATVs... with trailers, some really big coolers for the food and a few other things that he and Roger may want. He's also wanting to get a present for Eric's birthday, which is why Phoenix is going and I want to go."

"Will Uncle Joe be able to haul a couple of ATVs with trailers as well?" Jim inquired. "Or will a second vehicle be needed?"

"That was going to be my next question," Patrick admitted. "Can one of you drive the second vehicle?"

Zac smiled, "Only if Jake can go so he can buy a present as well. That is, if we can pry him away from Roger or Xander. I swear, that boy is crushing on the two of them, bad."

Jim just chuckled, "One of us will take you, but it will have to wait until the chores are done."

"We were wanting to go after breakfast, can the chores wait until after?" Patrick asked.

"The chores include feeding the horses. How would you feel if we made you wait to eat while we went shopping?" Jim admonished, while trying to keep a friendly tone.

"I'll explain to Trevor that we need to wait." Patrick groaned.

As Patrick sat down, he told Trevor that Jim said they had to wait until the chores were done. The horses needed to be taken care of. Trevor replied, "We've seen what they do at Tony's ranch, and your Dad's right; we should wait. We should all pitch in to get them done sooner, then we can go."

Maurice announced that breakfast was ready and as the boys were getting their food, Jake asked Brian, "Who are you and why are you here?"

"Jake!" Jim scolded.

Brian held up his hands, "He's just asking a simple question, or actually two. He's never met me and those are valid questions." Then turning to Jake, he asked, "Do you know Maurice?" Jake nodded. "Well I am his boyfriend, Brian. Why I am here is, I had a sleepover with Brian and since I am off today, I thought I would help him out."

"OH!" Jake's face lit up. "Will we get to see you more often, then?"

Brian gave Jake a smile, "I certainly hope so."

"Nice to meet you then, Brian," Jake smiled and then added with a chuckle, "and not just because you have the bacon."

"That boy loves bacon," Jim stated, shaking his head.

After everyone was finished eating, Jim and the boys went to take care of the horses. Joe started making plans for the Home as well as a birthday party while he waited. Joe also had a few riding lessons scheduled for that afternoon.

With everyone pitching in it didn't take long for the morning chores to be completed. Afterward, everyone went to clean up and change so they could go shopping.

In their room, Roger asked if Trevor really needed him to go. He said he'd rather stay at the ranch and rest. Trevor was a bit concerned because he thought there may be something more to it, but decided to let it go… for now.

When Trevor exited the dorms, Joe and Jim were waiting. Jim had his truck and Joe had his SUV. Jim asked Trevor if he knew who was going.

"Well, I thought it was going to be Phoenix, Patrick, Jake, Roger and me, but Roger asked if he could stay here, so it'll be the four of us, I guess."

Phoenix approached as Trevor was speaking and said, "I'd like to ride with Jim, if that's okay."

Jim smiled at the boy before nodding. "So, I guess it'll be Phoenix and Jake with me; Patrick and Trevor riding with Joe."

They had decided to go look at ATVs first, since Trevor had said he'd reviewed what model he wanted to look at first. Joe, leading the mini-caravan, would head to the Kawasaki dealership.

A few minutes later, Patrick joined them and they loaded up as Jim had said. On the way, Trevor asked, "Does Eric own his own horse yet?"

Patrick replied, "I don't think so."

Trevor thought for a moment before asking, "Joe, do you think offering to buy him the horse of his choice would be a good gift? I don't want to choose a horse, I think it would be better if he picked his own."

"I agree; a horse is a personal thing. You have to get a feel for the horse… if their personality meshes with yours. Living here, I know having his own horse would be great for Eric, and to answer your first question, no he does not have one, yet."

Trevor nodded, but remained silent for a time before asking Patrick, "What do you think you'd like to get him?"

"Well, I haven't known him that long, but I do know he likes cars. If you're going to get him a horse, maybe I could get him some tack or some western gear?"

"Tack can be kind of expensive, Patrick. I think the western gear is a great idea," Joe replied.

Trevor reached into his pocket and pulled out some bills, leaned over and whispered, "In case you need more to get what you really want for him." Once he sat back up, he winked at Patrick who had put the money into his pocket without looking at it.

Arriving at the dealership, Jim, Phoenix and Jake walked over and started looking at one end of the line of models while Trevor started looking over the various models of ATV from a distance. A salesman came over and started talking to Joe, ignoring Trevor and Patrick completely. Joe tried to tell him several times that it was actually Trevor who would be making the purchase, but the man simply started talking about the various available ATVs they had in stock. Every time Trevor tried to ask a question, the salesman ignored him.

Trevor walked over to the reception desk and asked to speak to the sales manager.

A few minutes later an older man approached and asked, "My name is Alex Thompson, and I own this dealership, is there something I can do for you, son?"

"Well, Sir. My name is Trevor King and I believe you need to train your sales staff a bit. I came in here today to purchase two ATVs completely loaded, along with trailers. When your salesman, Art, approached, he never qualified who was going to be actually buying them."

At first, Alex wasn't sure what to do until he realized who he was talking to. "You're one of the lads who got married the other day, aren't you?"

Trevor smiled and said, "I am."

"I'm proud of you. My son is fifteen and after reading about you in Sunday's paper he sat my wife and I down and came out to us. I told him that who he loves doesn't matter, all that matters is that he's happy."

"I wish all parents were like you, Sir."

"Please, call me Alex. I think we should step over and I'll tell Art that I'll handle your business personally."

When Trevor approached, Alex stood back for a moment as Trevor said, "Excuse me, Art, but I have a few questions."

Art looked at him before saying, "Can't you see that the adults are talking here? Don't you have any manners?"

Trevor was about to reply when Alex stepped over. "Art, this young man was polite in how he interrupted. Did you ever ask who was actually making the purchase?"

"Well, no. It seemed pretty obvious who'd be buying. The two kids wouldn't have the funds to be able to make this kind of purchase."

"Well, Mr. King here will be making the purchases. I'll take care of these folks personally, why don't you see if anyone else needs help?"

Art looked as if he was going to question Alex, but stormed off in the direction of the offices instead.

Alex turned back to Trevor and apologized for Art's actions before asking, "Did you have a specific model in mind?"

Trevor simply replied, "I do, but what I'd rather do is tell you what I need the ATV to do and you tell me what would be the best option. Price is not a concern at this point, functionality is primary."

"That sounds like a plan. So, what do you need the ATV to do."

"Well, they're for a ranch, so they'll need the ability to haul a trailer. They'll need to be easy enough to operate so someone, say… Patrick's size wouldn't have a problem with it. I would like them to be durable enough to handle any terrain while pulling the loaded trailer."

"Well, when you said pulling a trailer, are you talking about moving horses around with it?"

"I wouldn't think so, but, maybe moving empty horse trailers would be a possibility."

Alex thought for a moment before saying, "If it were me, I'd probably go with the Brute Force 750i. It has the towing capability you are looking for since it can pull a trailer loaded up to 1,250 pounds, it's quite easy to operate, and from the looks of the lad sitting on the red one, he'd be able to operate it well enough."

Trevor looked over and saw Patrick astride a red ATV. His expression told Trevor he really liked what he was looking at. "So, he's on a 750i?"

"He is." At that point, Alex did what any good salesperson would. He stopped talking, allowing Trevor to formulate the next question.

Trevor walked over and looked at the ATV Patrick was seated on. He liked the look of it, then when he reviewed the spec sheet he was pretty much sold on the unit. "This looks good. Actually, it looks like it's pretty much the top-of-the-line."

"It is the best of the best in my opinion. I actually bought this very model for my son for his 15th birthday."

Trevor didn't feel he needed to waste much more time so he said, "What colors do you currently have in stock?"

"Well, you can see the red, I also have blue and green."

Trevor considered that and replied, "Ok, we'll take a blue and a red one. Now, are there any specific requirements for the trailers?"

Alex led Trevor over to a display of trailers. After reviewing them, Trevor selected a model and told Alex he'd be taking two of them.

As Alex and Trevor were talking, Art was seated in his office reading the Sunday paper. He'd just finished the article about Trevor and Roger's wedding when he got up in a huff and walked out to talk to his friend Alice, the dealership's receptionist.

"Can you believe this crap? First, they give those faggots the right to demonize a sacred institution like marriage, but then they allow two little kids to get married? How can any parent allow their child to marry at fourteen… let alone to another of the same sex? It turns my stomach!"

Alice agreed with Art, but wasn't going to be as vocal about it. "I know what you mean, Art. One of those kids is here right now. He's the one talking to Alex."

Art's head snapped around and saw the two over by the trailers. He stormed over and immediately said, "I am going to have to ask you to leave. We have no intention of doing business with the spawn of the devil. What you are sickens me!"

Alex couldn't believe his ears. "Just who do you think you're talking to, Art?"

"I'm talking to the little faggot who's infecting our dealership with his very presence."

Alex looked at Trevor who was standing calmly, waiting to see how the situation was handled.

Alex was angry, yet kept his cool. "Art, the only thing infecting this dealership at the moment is a cancer called hatred. I own this dealership and I will choose who we will or will not do business with. As far as this young man is concerned, I salute his self-confidence. In today's world, it's not easy for a gay person to go through life without hearing homophobic bullshit like you were just spouting. My own son happens to be gay. I do believe that you may not be the best person to be representing this dealership. I think it's time for you to go to your office and pack up your things. I'll have your final commission check ready in an hour."

Art made a critical mistake at that point. He chose to attempt an attack on Trevor, grabbing his hair, while pulling it and him toward the door. The ensuing melee was averted abruptly when another customer, who happened to be nearby stepped in. "Sir, my name is Steve Chambers, Detective Steve Chambers, Cody Police. You are under arrest for assault and battery of a minor. I am going to make certain that your crime is upgraded to a hate crime since I distinctly heard your comments and believe that your actions are solely due to the fact that the boy is a homosexual."

Detective Chambers handcuffed Art and asked that Alex call Cody PD and ask that a unit be dispatched to take this person into custody.

After assuring that Trevor was unharmed physically, Alex couldn't apologize enough.

"Alex, you had nothing to do with it. I hold no animosity toward you or your dealership."

"Well, allow me to at least discount your purchase as an apology."

"I will not accept a discount, but if you feel strongly enough about it, why don't you just make a donation to the Boys' Home at Another Chance Ranch?"

Alex smiled, but didn't say anything.

An hour later, Trevor had purchased two ATVs, two trailers, and a dozen helmets in various sizes from Jake's size up through adult. After paying the $42,000 bill with his credit card, Trevor asked if the dealership could walk Jim and Joe through connecting the trailers to their vehicles.

Alex had two of his lot attendants work with Jim and Joe. Trevor sat and talked to Alex while that was going on. Just before they were going to leave, Alex's son Timothy stopped by.

"Hi Dad!" Timothy said to his father and even though he wasn't alone, wrapped his dad in a tight hug.

"Tim, it's good you stopped by. Remember the article you showed us yesterday?"

"How could I forget it. It gave me the courage to tell you and Mom something I'd been worried about for a long time."

Trevor stepped over and reached out to shake Timothy's hand. "I'm Trevor King."

Tim's eyes bugged out. "Y… y… you're one of the boys who got married! Oh, my gosh!"

With a wide grin, Trevor said, "That I am. Your dad told me that you came out to him and your mother last night. I know it was probably the most frightening thing you've ever done."

"Not really. It was a relief, actually. I've known for a couple of years and I was more frightened about them finding out before I got the balls to tell them."

"I'm happy for you. Here's my number," Trevor said, handing him a card, "if there's anything you need or just need to talk, contact me."

Tim smiled, "I'd really like to meet your husband."

"I think that can be arranged. Is there a special someone in your life?"

"Not yet, but I'm hopeful. I decided that I'm not going to hide who I am any more, and that includes at school. I know I can't be the only gay person at the school."

As they were talking, they were walking toward the trucks. Trevor introduced Tim to the guys. Joe shook his hand and said, "It's very nice to meet you, Tim. We're going to be having a birthday party on Wednesday afternoon for my son, we'd love it if you'd join us."

Tim looked up at his dad and seeing him nod, his freckled face split in a huge grin. "I'd love to go."

They talked for another few minutes, then the crew, after deciding to drop the ATVs back at the ranch, hopped into the vehicles and headed back. They would then continue the shopping trip afterward.

Joe had been looking at jackets and thought Eric might like a blue one that he saw. It had a red lightning bolt on the right side of it and said Thunder on the left. He searched and found one in Eric's size and even though it wasn't cheap, he purchased it.

The two vehicles drove in at the ranch, pulling the trailers with the ATVs. Eric, seeing them return, went out and the moment he saw the blue ATV and the vehicles had stopped, he ran over to it.

"This is so cool! I love the color!"

Trevor smiled. "I'm going to check on Roger, after that we can do the rest of our shopping."

Trevor walked over to the dorms. Entering the room he shared with Roger, he saw his new husband asleep in the bed. He was drenched in sweat. Trevor sat on the bed next to him and touched Roger's forehead. He was burning up with fever.

Panic-stricken, Trevor raced out of the dorms calling out, "Roger's really sick, we need to get him some help!"

Everyone dropped what they were doing and as a group, they ran to the dorms. When Zac felt Roger's forehead he immediately told Jim to call 911. Trevor was in tears. The other boys, Patrick primarily, were trying to comfort their friend.

After what seemed like an hour later, but was, in reality, less than ten minutes, they heard the approaching sirens. Eric and Phoenix ran out to direct the paramedics to where Roger was.

Once they arrived, they asked everyone to clear out of the room. Trevor flatly refused, "That's my husband, I'm not going anywhere!"

The Paramedic who seemed to be in charge said, "Ok, but stay on the other side of the room so we have room to work.

They began assessing Roger, asking Trevor if Roger had been sick, then if he had any allergies. About that time, the other paramedic said, "John, look at this."

He showed John a red welt on the back of Roger's neck. It was clearly an insect bite of some sort. John said, "We need to get him to the hospital as soon as possible. He grabbed his radio, "Unit 3 to WPH. We have a fourteen-year-old male. Temp is 102.3, BP 100 over 65, Pulse 155. He has what appears to be an insect bite on the back of his neck. According to others on the scene he seemed fine, just a bit tired, two hours ago."

"Unit 3, this is West Park Hospital ED, Doctor Cooper. Start an IV and administer 75mg Benadryl. Transport ASAP. Monitor and advise of any changes."

"Starting an IV… 75mg Benadryl IV, Transporting. ETA 15 minutes. Unit 3 out."

They got the IV started and the Paramedic injected the medicine into it. They then loaded Roger onto a gurney and started wheeling him out. Trevor wanted to ride with them, but was told that was not permitted. Zac agreed to take him to the hospital. Patrick insisted on going with them.

When they arrived at the hospital, they went to the Emergency Department reception area and told them who they were, then asked if there was any news.

"I'm sorry, they just got him in and the doctor is with him. As soon as we know anything, someone will be out to talk to you."

Trevor was going to object, but Patrick said, "Look, he's in there with the doctors. We'd just be in the way. Let them work on him."

Zac and Patrick sat while Trevor paced back and forth, tears flowing down his face. The minutes ticked by slowly. About an hour later, a Doctor in green scrubs came out asking for the family of Roger King.

Trevor was there in an instant followed by Zac and Patrick. The doctor started talking to Zac, asking where his parents were. Trevor, in an uncharacteristic move said, "Look, he's MY husband, talk to me."

The doctor looked oddly at Trevor then back to Zac who said, "They were married on Saturday; yes, it's true, he's Roger's husband."

"I'm sorry, but it's not usual for someone of your age to be married. Roger suffered an allergic reaction to a fairly common insect bite here. Most people who grew up here have a natural immunity, however, being that your husband isn't from the area, he didn't have the immunity. We've stabilized him and he's responding to treatment. He's sleeping now, but should be fine in a day or so. We'd like to keep him overnight just for observation, but I see no reason at this time why he can't go home in the morning."

Trevor was relieved. "I'm sorry I snapped at you, Doctor. We were just married and I didn't know what I'd do if I lost him so soon. Thank you for saving him."

"Quite understandable, young man. Are you the couple I read about in Sunday's paper?"

"Yes, we are."

"Well, congratulations on your wedding. I wish we could have met under different circumstances."

"Thank you, Doctor. Can I see him?"

The doctor led the trio back to the emergency room where Roger was just waking up. Seeing Trevor, he reached out his hand. Trevor took it, then wrapped his other around his husband, burying his face in Roger's chest and wept.

A few minutes later an orderly came by and said they were going to move Roger to a private room. Trevor asked if he could go with them. The orderly was about to say no when Zac said, "Trevor, let them get him settled. We'll go up in a few minutes."

Trevor was about to balk when he realized he was being overly protective. "Okay, I should call Grandpa and Henri and let them know what's going on."

After giving Roger a kiss, Trevor stepped back so the orderly could get Roger ready to be moved. He told Trevor that they'd be moving him to room 203 and he could come up in about fifteen minutes.

They watched as Roger was wheeled out of the Emergency Department. Zac called Jim to let him know what was going on and Trevor called Nate. Through his tears, he explained what had happened. Nate said he'd be there as soon as he could and that he'd call Henri.

They walked out into the waiting area where Trevor collapsed into a chair holding his face in his hands as he cried out his fears.

After about twenty minutes, the trio got up and walked over to the bank of elevators. They took one up to the second floor. Finding Roger's room easily, they were introduced to his nurse, Carla. She told them that since he had a private room, they weren't all that worried about visiting hours. She made sure Roger knew where the call button was, then as she was leaving, told them that the doctor would be in to see him shortly.

Patrick gave Roger a hug. "I'm so glad it wasn't more serious. I don't know what I would've had done if it were worse."

"Thankfully, it wasn't." Roger then turned to Trevor and said, "I probably should have told you I felt weird this morning, but I really just thought I was tired. It's been a busy few days."

"I don't care, as long as you're ok. I do want you to promise me if you're feeling badly in any way in the future you won't try to minimize it." Trevor admonished.

Roger peered into his husband's eyes and said, "I'll only make that promise if you promise me the same."

The two shared a kiss as they made that promise to each other. The group chatted about the morning's events at the dealership. Roger was appalled over the treatment that salesperson had put Trevor through, but was happy with how the owner handled things. He was interested in hearing about Timothy.

"Babe, if I weren't already married to you, he'd give you a run for your money. He's amazingly cute." Trevor joked.

"Yeah, and if I didn't have Scott, I'd be all over that! Even if he is older than me." Patrick smiled.

"Well, you're both spoken for." Roger huffed.

After talking for another few minutes, Trevor suggested that Zac and Patrick go back to the ranch and pick up Phoenix and Jake and do the rest of their shopping. He was going to stay with Roger. Nate was going to be there shortly anyway.

Zac and Patrick gave Roger and Trevor hugs and turned to leave. As Zac was leaving, Dr. Bashir entered Roger's room. "Zac, what are you doing here? Surely Roger isn't one of your sons, I've met Patrick and Jim told me the other boy is Jake and that he was only six."

"It's good to see you again, Dr. Bashir. Roger and Trevor are friends of Patrick's. They were here for the wedding we had at the Ranch on Saturday."

"I heard about that. Wait a minute… Trevor and Roger… King? You were the two who got married? Congratulations. I wish I didn't have to meet you under these circumstances."

Looking at Roger, Dr. Bashir related, "I've looked over the ED Doctor's report and I concur. Everything looks good, you seem to be responding very well to the treatment he gave you. Scary thing is, had someone found you ten minutes later, this would have been much more serious. As long as you don't have any bad reactions overnight, I can see you leaving us in the morning."

"Thank you for taking such good care of him, Doctor. I'm so happy he's going to be okay." Trevor said, shaking the Doctor's hand.

After talking for another few minutes, Dr. Bashir left, saying he'd check on Roger again before he left for the day. He said goodbye to Zac and Patrick as well before heading out to see to his next patient.

"Well, you're in good hands, Rog. Dr. Bashir is the best. I'm going to head out and take the boys out to get the presents they wanted to buy. We'll see you tomorrow, Roger. Feel better!" Zac said as they left the room.

Roger scooted over a little so Trevor could lay with him. They chatted quietly for a while before they heard, "Leave you alone for a few hours and you find some way to bring everyone's attention back to you!" Nate joked as he entered.

As Zac was pulling out of the hospital, Patrick asked, "Do you think Dad will be upset if I want to wait until tomorrow to go shopping? Eric's birthday isn't until Wednesday and I don't really feel like going tonight."

"I feel ya, Bud," Zac replied. "I'm sure Dad will understand, and I think it should be your choice, but I also think that it might make you feel better. Maybe you'll see something to buy for Roger as a 'get well' present."

"If you think it'll make me feel better, I'll go," Patrick conceded.

Zac rubbed the back of Patrick's head, "I can't promise that it will, but I believe so."

Patrick gave a weak smile, "OK, I will try, but if it doesn't cheer me up, you owe me a hug."

Zac chuckled, "I'll give you a hug either way, but I do believe and hope that it does." Patrick just smiled.

After they arrived at the ranch, Jim gave Patrick a hug, "Do you want to go shopping? I know you're worried about Roger, but I think you'll feel better if you have something distracting your mind for a bit."

"I was going to ask about waiting until tomorrow but Papa suggested the same thing," Patrick replied.

"Papa is right," Jim encouraged, "but if you would rather wait until tomorrow, I understand. Remember, Wednesday is Grandma Heather's birthday, too."

"Grandma Heather and Eric share birthdays?" Patrick looked surprised.

Jim cooed, "They do."

"Come on Jake, we need to go buy Grandma Heather a present," Patrick seemed a little more excited.

As they were shopping, Jim took the boys to Jake's Trading post first. Phoenix looked around but nothing seemed to say 'Eric' to him. Patrick was looking at spurs and Jim thought about the pairs Joe had bought for him and Zac their first Christmas. "I think Eric would like those, and I think Uncle Joe might get a chuckle."

"Then I'm getting them," Patrick averred.

Jake inquired, "What should I get for Eric, Daddy?"

"Does he have a cowboy hat?" Jim suggested.

Jake thought for a minute, "Uncle Joe bought him a white one, but he's afraid to get it dirty, so he rarely wears it. Ooooo, look at that shirt. It's blue, like your car and Eric said that blue was his favorite color."

Jim asked, "Is that what you want to get him, then?"

"Can I get him the shirt and hat?" Jake questioned.

"You have enough money if you want to."

Jake, the owner, looked at the boys and said, "I've been running a special all week. It was supposed to end yesterday, but it's been so successful, I'm thinking of running it until school starts."

"What's the special, Jim inquired.

"Ten percent off everything," Big Jake stated, with a grin. Then Jake looked at Jim and added, "By the way, your order came in today. If you want to give me a hand, I can load it into your truck."

Patrick said, "That special sounds good to me, I don't mind saving money. Maybe I can get him some chaps, too."

Jim looked at the older Jake and agreed, "Thanks, I was about to ask about that. Sure, I can help you with it."

"What did you order, Dad?" Patrick was curious.

Jim smiled, "Papa and I bought a present for Eric. You'll just have to wait until he opens it to find out."

The older Jake told Jim, "Since you already paid for it, I can get you a certificate for ten percent of its value."

Jim shook his head, "No, I appreciate the offer, but if you want to donate something to the Boys' Home equivalent to the amount…"

Jim didn't get a chance to finish, Jake looked at him and stated, "I'm already donating twenty slickers for the boys, in various sizes."

"Then you've already given us way more than that ten percent," Jim chuckled.

Once they were done there, Jim drove the boys to various stores, looking for the perfect present for Heather. Phoenix found what he thought was the perfect gift for Eric.

Patrick saw a stuffed fox that he thought Roger might like. He asked Jim, "Can we stop by the hospital so we can give it to him?"

"Yeah!!!" Jake got excited. "I wanna see my boyfriend."

"Boyfriend?" Jim questioned. "You did see him marry Trevor on Saturday, right?"

Jake looked like he was about to cry, "Does that mean he can't be my boyfriend, anymore?"

Jim's heart broke, "I'm afraid so, but he will always be your friend."

"That's OK, I like Roger as a friend and I still have Xander," Jake said with a smile.

Jim almost choked, but managed to ask, "And what do you and Xander do?"

"We mainly talk, but he lets me sit on his lap. When we were at Jellystone, he let me sit on his lap and…" Jake went to a whisper, even though the only ones in the truck were the four of them, "his mm-hmm started to move when a cute boy walked by."

"That's normal," Jim stated, hoping Jake wouldn't ask why. Patrick and Phoenix had to stifle their laughter.

Patrick added, "Yeah, once you get older, it starts moving at the slightest breeze."

Once they were at the hospital, Jake ran up to the receptionist, "What room is Roger in?"

"Last name?" the receptionist asked.

"It's alright, I already know the room number," Jim informed the lady.

The lady looked up and saw Jim, then Patrick with the stuffed fox, and joked, "Look, I told a dragon that he couldn't bring this pet in, what makes you think you are any different?" Jim started cracking up, happy at how she let him know she remembered him.

Patrick gave her a funny look, "It's just a stuffed animal."

"I was bringing a stuffed dragon to see Dusty and she said that to the dragon I was carrying. She's just having fun."

She gave Jim a smile, "And how is your friend doing? From what I understand, it was very close, too damn close."

"You've got that right. He was actually considered dead for a while," Jim replied. "He's planning to get married next year, he just wants to get his first year of college out of the way."

"I'm happy to hear it. Since you know the room, go on up."

Patrick led Jake to Roger's room with Jim following. Patrick didn't even look at the room numbers, since he was there earlier. As they entered, Jake ran over to the bed, Trevor was in it beside Roger. "Roger, Daddy said that since you married Trevor, you can't be my boyfriend anymore, but we can still be friends."

"We will always be friends," Roger declared. "And yeah, Trevor is my husband now, so maybe you'll find a boy your age to be your boyfriend."

"Or Xander," Jake replied.

Roger was about to say something, but Jim started clearing his throat.

Patrick stepped over to Roger. "Jake and I bought you something," he stated as he handed Roger the fox.

"That is so cute," Roger averred as he took the fox and gave it a hug.

Patrick quietly said, "Dad said that we can't stay long. He says that you need your rest. It looks like Trevor is about to fall asleep, himself."

"Yeah," Roger responded, "I'm not trying to push you out, but I am a bit tired. I'm glad that you thought of me when you saw this fox."

"First, I thought of Scott. He is the foxiest guy I know, but then I thought of you," Patrick teased.

Roger laughed, "Oh, I see where I sit on your totem pole."

Patrick was quick, which caused Roger to laugh, Jake and Phoenix to give him a funny look and Jim to choke, again, "Scott is the only one who will sit on my totem pole, and we haven't done that yet."

Jim just announced, "OK, I think it is time to go. We'll see you when you get home, Roger."

"Thank you, again, for the fox."

Once home, Jim took Patrick to the office so they could talk about his comment. "Young man, about that comment you made at the hospital…" Jim didn't get to finish as Patrick interrupted him.

"About my totem pole?" he queried. "It was kinda funny, didn't you think so?"

Jim smiled, "Yes, I saw the humor, but, and this is a big but, it was inappropriate in front of your brother. And, you shouldn't have interrupted me. You know better."

Patrick lowered his head, "I'm sorry, Dad. You are right, as always. How long am I grounded?"

"Just give me a hug, promise that you'll think before you say something like that, and we'll drop the matter," Jim replied. "I just hope Jake doesn't ask to see your totem pole."

Wrapping his arms around Jim, Patrick chuckled, "If he does, I will tell him that it was figurative and doesn't really exist. I love you Dad and I promise to think before I speak."

Tuesday morning, Maurice and Brian were working in the Boys' Home kitchen preparing breakfast for the remaining boys. Joe walked in and offered to help. As they were talking, Maurice asked if arrangements had been made for the birthday cake for the following afternoon.

"Actually, that's one of the things I wanted to talk to you about. With all the commotion, we neglected to order cakes from the bakery. Would it be too much of an imposition to ask you to make them?"

"Joe… I would consider it an honor to do. You have all accepted me into your family, it's what family does, non? What kinds of cakes did you want?"

"Well, Mom's favorite is spice cake with cream cheese frosting and I wasn't sure about Eric's. Probably strawberry cake with the same frosting and fresh strawberries on top."

"This is not a problem. I can prepare cakes. What do you think of a marbled strawberry and chocolate cake with a buttercream frosting with strawberries?"

"That would work fine. Thanks, Maurice."

After breakfast, Xander asked Zac if he would start teaching him how to ride a horse. "I've never really ridden, I've been on horseback, but usually it's at some ranch where all the horses are tame enough that even a boy like me could ride."

"When you say 'a boy like you,' I hope you mean that as one who hasn't really ridden, and not as a put down," Zac was concerned.

Xander chuckled, "Yeah, I did. Since I've been here, I have learned that I am not at fault for anything that has happened where I felt bad about myself. Sure, I don't have a chip on my shoulder; anymore that is, but I haven't done anything to where I should feel ashamed of myself, either."

"I'm glad that you understand that," Zac stated, as he put an arm around Xander. "I have a question for you. I've read your file and seen that you are sixteen. Do you have your driver's license yet?"

Xander looked down, "Dad found out I was gay just after I completed everything else and refused to take me for the driving test. That's all I need to do, yet."

Zac said, "OK, then why don't I take you to do it? Do you know how to drive a stick?"

"No," Xander replied.

"Not a problem," Zac offered, "either I can teach you, or we can see if Chris will let you use his car."

"Seriously?!?" Xander enthused. "I'd be willing to learn if you want to teach me."

"Let me tell Jim where we are going, and then I'd be happy to teach you."

As Zac was talking to Jim, they saw Nate's motorcoach pull into a parking spot meant for buses. Trevor took Roger straight to the dorms. Zac told Jim, "I'll be teaching Xander how to drive a stick and then we're going to the DMV to get his license."

"Using the truck?" Jim questioned. "Grab the keys to my car, I think it'll be easier for him."

"Probably," Zac concurred.

Xander was surprised when Zac headed for Jim's car. Zac told him that it was Jim's suggestion as taking the test would be easier in it. Zac took time to explain the gears and let the boy play with the gears before starting the vehicle. Once Xander felt comfortable with the gears, Zac handed him the key. He warned, "Almost everyone has stalled the car the first time they drove stick. Just lift off the clutch slowly while pressing the accelerator at about the same speed. Once you feel the car move a little, you know you can take your foot completely off."

Xander started the car and slowly let out the clutch. Zac could tell that he was nervous about stalling. "If it stalls, it's no big deal. I've stalled a few times."

When the car started moving, he felt proud of himself. Xander let out a breath and continued letting up the clutch while pushing the accelerator. He had the car moving at a proper speed and Zac told him to head down the drive to the road. "Seriously? You want me to drive… with other cars?"

"You will be for the exam," Zac reasoned.

"I guess you have a point. So, will I actually get to use my license after I get it?"

"Definitely," Zac said with confidence. "There may be times when you might need to drive a vehicle for the ranch, or like yesterday, when Joe needed a second driver. Also, if you find someone that you really like, and want to go out on a date, we may be able to lend you a vehicle."

"Like that Mustang or this car?" Xander asked, with a gleam in his eye.

"The Mustang belongs to Patrick, so that would be up to him. His father left it to him. And this is Jim's car," Zac explained. "Jim is generous and letting you use it with me, so there is a chance."

Xander smiled, "I wasn't serious or hopeful when I asked, but I guess it wouldn't hurt to ask when the time comes."

"You are more than just a boy living in the Home we operate, you are a friend," Zac declared.

Xander had a big smile on his face, "And that's the way I feel, when I am with you, Jim or Joe. I feel like Tuck wants to be friends, too, but yet, since I've only seen him that first day, I don't feel as close."

"That's understandable." Zac started telling Xander where to drive and once the boy felt comfortable driving with a stick shift, they went to the DMV.

After the driving test, the instructor asked, while getting out, "Are you sure you've only started driving a stick shift today? I've had people driving them for years have problems from being nervous. You seemed very comfortable and made no mistakes at all."

"I had a good teacher," Xander explained, nodding towards Zac standing on the sidewalk.

"Congratulations, Son. If everyone drove as good as you, there would be far fewer accidents."

When they got back to the ranch, Xander found Jim to return his keys personally and thank him. Jim asked, "How'd you do?"

"I was doing great until I ran into the back of the police car," Xander had his head down, so Jim couldn't see his smile.

"Are you alright?" Jim inquired.

Xander was surprised; he thought sure Jim would be more concerned about his car. "Yeah, but aren't you upset?"

"Accidents happen, the car can be replaced," Jim explained, "have you been checked out by a doctor?"

"I was only teasing you," Xander admitted, "but it made me feel good that you were more concerned about me than the car. The instructor said that I did perfect."

"I'm glad to hear it," Jim gave Xander a hug. "If you ever need a car, we will talk about you borrowing it."

Patrick walked in at that time, "Dad, he can use the Mustang if he wants. It'll be four years until I can get my license, and…"

"That's up to you, Bud. That is your car, so if you want to let him use it…" Jim didn't finish, he just smiled at his son.

Xander vowed, "I'll ask permission any time I want to use it and I promise to take good care of it."

"I know you will," Patrick stated with confidence. Xander had a tear run down his cheek as he smiled at Patrick.

Wednesday morning, Joe went to the dorms early to wake Eric up. He tapped lightly on the door, not sure what he would find. No one answered, so he opened the door and peeked in. Eric was asleep in one bed while Phoenix was in the other. Both were shirtless, but that was all Joe could tell.

Joe walked over to Eric's bed and whispered, "Eric, wake up." That didn't work, so Joe shook him a little. Eric started to stir. Joe shook him a little more.

"Dad?" the boy questioned when he opened his eyes.

"Happy Birthday," Joe whispered, "and Maurice wants to know what the birthday boy would like for breakfast."

Eric inquired, "Can I have crepes with fresh strawberries, some toast, orange juice and Trevor coffee?"

"Sure, you can," Joe declared. "Start getting the other boys up, we'll have breakfast ready in half an hour or so."

Joe walked to the kitchen, where he found Maurice alone. "Where is everyone else?"

"François, Ange and the boys left to head home, and Brian has to work this morning," Maurice answered.

"Yeah, I saw François and them leave," Joe stated, "I was more curious about Brian. I guess from here on out, this is your kitchen, and I will assist as you need me."

"Oui," Maurice gave Joe a smile, "we will make great food together." Joe just laughed. "Henri thinks a lot about you, and he is very confident in your ability, so I have confianceconfiance ("French for confidence or trust.") in you as well."

Joe told Maurice what Eric wanted for a birthday breakfast and Maurice had a worried look on his face. "We may need more strawberries for the cake, then."

"Call Brian and see if we can get some, and see if he can come for the party. If he can't bring any, I can run to the Farmer's Market. There are always farmers selling fresh crops there this time of year."

As they prepared breakfast together, Joe following Maurice's instructions, they talked. Joe said, "You know, the boys will need to eat seven days a week, but that doesn't mean you have to work seven days. Whenever you want or need a day or two off, just let me know. Until it gets to be too much for me, I will cover for you. When we get that busy, we can hire an assistant for you, but I will still help as I can."

"C'est très apprécié," Maurice stated. "Sorry, there I go again; that is much appreciated. I will need some time to go get my stuff."

"Don't apologize, I like hearing the French," Joe encouraged, "perhaps, I can learn enough of it to help you feel more at home."

"I like you, Joe," Maurice declared.

"As for going to get your things," Joe began, "if you want to leave after Brian gets off Sunday, I will cover for you. Or, you can take off whatever time you need. I was already planning to do the cooking; you moving here will be helping me reduce my stress, so I think I can deal with it while you are gone."

Brian entered the kitchen at the Boys' Home just as Maurice was putting the finishing touches on the cake that had been prepared for Eric's birthday. When Maurice noticed Brian, he made a comment that the additional strawberries were of top quality and he really appreciated Brian bringing them out earlier in a special trip.

He also noticed that Brian was carrying a container. "What is in the container, mon cheri?"

"I was telling mother about Jake and his love of bacon. She insisted on sending him a special treat. In our family, there's been a tradition of sorts."

He set the container down and removed the top. Maurice looked at the cake and asked, "Is that bacon on top of the cake?"

"My grandfather… my mother's father, lives in Vermont. He sends her the best natural maple syrup. His favorite dessert is a maple bacon cake. It sounds odd, but it's really quite tasty. When she heard about Jake's love of bacon, she dropped everything she was doing and prepared one, special for him."

Joe happened to choose that moment to step into the kitchen to see how things were progressing. There was still over an hour until the actual party was to start. When he overheard the description that Brian had given, he took a good look at the cake and said, "Jake will be over the moon for this. Why don't I go get Jim and Zac to bring him in so we can give it to him."

A few minutes later, Joe led Jim and Zac into the kitchen. They described what Brian's mother had done and Jim thought it was a wonderful thing to do for Jake. It would make his day. Zac prepared his camera app on his phone as Jim went to find his youngest son.

Jim returned, holding Jake in his arms. When they entered, Jake saw Brian and said, "Hi Maurice's boyfriend, I'm sorry, but I forget your name."

"It's okay, Jake. You only met me briefly, and you had your attention on the bacon I was holding. My name is Brian. I was telling my mommy about how great this little boy I met was and she wanted to send you a present."

"A present? For me? But it's Eric's and Gramma's birthday." Jake asked questioningly.

Jim averred, "It doesn't have to be a special day for someone to send you a gift. It shows that they are thinking of you."

Jake was all smiles. He hopped down and went over to Brian wanting a hug. "What did she get me?"

Brian stood Jake in front of the container holding his cake as Zac got his camera at the ready.

Brian removed the lid and Jake's eyes went wide. "A CAKE!!!!" Moments later, confusion was evident on the little boy's face. "Is that… BACON? On a cake?"

"It's a special cake my mommy makes for my grandpa and now for you. It's a maple bacon cake."

Of course, Zac had captured a video of the great reveal and Jake's subsequent reaction.

"Oh, my gosh!" He turned to Jim and asked, "Can I have a piece now, Daddy?"

Jim laughed before answering, "What good is a cake if you can't eat it?  I'll admit, I'm kind of curious about it as well."

Brian helped Jake cut the cake and served a small piece to everyone there. Jake took his first bite and said, "This is great! Daddy, I want this kind of cake for my birthday."

They enjoyed their early treat. When they were done, Jake ran over to Brian and wrapped him in a huge hug and gave him a kiss on the cheek. "Thank you, Bacon… Um… I mean Brian, and please thank your mommy too"

"I will, little man. But you might want to thank her yourself one of these days. I am sure she'd like one of your hugs, too. You never know, if you spoil her with hugs, you may get this kind of surprise more often."

Jake was all smiles as he and his parents left the kitchen. Joe said, "You know, I don't think he'll ever forget your name again."

Brian laughed, "Yeah, but he changed it. It's Bacon, now." They all laughed.

As it was getting to be time for the party, Joe and Buster were upstairs. Eric was in his room, trying to decide what to wear. Joe came in and suggested, "It's eighty degrees out there and should get hotter, what about a pair of shorts and your favorite t-shirt?"

Eric replied, "My favorite t-shirt is dirty, I wore it two days ago."

"I did laundry yesterday while Dad was out and you were with the other boys," Buster informed him.

Eric opened his dresser and found his favorite t-shirt on top. It was a blue shirt with a blue 2016 Mustang Shelby Super Snake on it. His smile was enough to say 'thank you,' to Buster. Before Joe and Buster left Eric so he could change, they reminded him, "Today is Grandma Heather's birthday, too. Since you are expecting a party, we thought we would surprise her."

Eric surmised, "So, we need to go early, I guess."

"And it will be dark when we first get down to the cafeteria. I will turn the light on so that you can find a spot, but then will need to turn it out before Mom, er… Grandma gets here."

Nick came downstairs dressed in his uniform. He looked at Heather and stated, "One of the deputies called me to say that I was urgently needed at the office. I'll try to make it to the party. Remember, Eric's party starts at 1:30. I love you."

Heather felt hurt. Nick has yet to even acknowledge that today was her birthday, and now he has to go to the office and not spend it with her. Part of her didn't feel like going to a birthday party, but she couldn't do that to Eric, especially with it being his first with this family.

It dawned on her, this is the first time that Jim hasn't been home for her birthday, and he hadn't called yet, either. And Joe hadn't called, other than to remind her of Eric's party. Tears started flowing as she worried that her family was forgetting that she even existed.

After she felt a little better, Heather washed up, put on her makeup and got dressed. She decided that she wasn't going to let her hurt feelings ruin Eric's party.

At about 12:30 pm, Trevor received a telephone call from Tim. He and his father would be arriving within a few minutes and had Eric's present.

Trevor had checked with Joe and it was agreed that Trevor could leave Eric's present behind the building outside of the Kitchen door.

Alex pulled his truck behind the dorms and, after they greeted Trevor and Tim had been introduced to Roger, Alex pulled the tarp off of Eric's present. The actual gift was much nicer than the picture led Trevor to expect.

Trevor led them into the dining room and began to introduce Tim to the others. When they approached a group of the boys, Tim stopped short.

Surprise evident in his voice, Tim commented to a boy he'd seen at school a few times, "Xander? I'm a little surprised to see you at a Home, let alone one that caters mainly to gays."

"Yeah, so what of it?" Xander snapped back, before he could catch himself.

"Nothing, I just never thought you were gay. I mean, this still doesn't say that you are, I'm just surprised," Tim replied.

Xander just smiled, "Well, now you know I am gay, and I'm happy that I don't have to hide it."

"That's cool. When I told my parents, I also felt relief in not having to hide it."

"Wait," Xander looked stunned, "you're gay? I would have never guessed it."

Tim noticed a huge grin appear on Xander's face. After a few moments, feeling a little self-conscious, Tim asked, "What?"

"I just never really noticed how cute you are," Xander stated, causing Tim to blush. "Are you staying for the party?"

Tim declared, "I was invited"

"And speaking of which," Trevor reminded them, "we need to get back inside. Joe should be bringing Eric down any minute."

Once Joe, Buster and Eric were ready, they headed downstairs. Joe turned on the lights and everyone yelled, "Surprise!!!" but the real surprise was two people standing in the middle of the room. "Grandma and Grandpa Laredo?" Eric said, in total surprise.

Grandma Laredo gave Eric a hug, "When we heard what that former son-in-law did to you, we were appalled. Your momma would be so upset if she were still alive. The group home called us and we cried because we couldn't take you. We have just the one bedroom, you know. I'm glad that you have a new home and your dad found us to invite us."

"Yeah, I'm glad, too. As much as I love you and Grandpa, I love Dad and Daddy. I can't believe that you drove up all the way from Clint, Texas."

"Your dad invited us to stay fer a spell. We were thinking of spending a week before returning, that is, if you would like us to," Grandpa Laredo stated.

Eric looked at Joe and Buster and said, "Thank you, I love you both and this means so much to me."

"Does that mean I can return your present?" Joe teased.

Eric looked shocked, "You mean, this wasn't it? This was the best present you could have given me."

"I'm glad that we made you happy," Joe declared.

Nick looked at Joe and simply stated, "Heather should be here any moment."

Eric led his biological grandparents to where they could hide just before Joe turned out the lights.

Walking into the cafeteria, Heather was surprised that the lights were still off. She knew that she was early, but she couldn't possibly be the first to arrive. There were too many cars outside. Maybe she heard wrong, and the party was in the Party Barn. As she started back for the door, Joe flipped the switch and everyone yelled again, "SURPRISE!!!"

Heather saw a banner that read, "Happy Birthday, Heather and Eric!!!" Tears ran down her face as Nick walked up to her. "I wanted to wish you a happy birthday so many times today, but I wanted you to think I had forgotten. I love you, Milady." Then he kissed her.

Jim walked over and gave her a hug, as did Joe. Some lady that Heather had never seen before approached her. She held out her arms as though she knew Heather, so Heather accepted the hug. "My grandson tells me that you are one of his new grandmas. While we were waiting for you, he has been telling me a lot about this family, and the love that y'all share. Legally, he's not my grandson anymore, so I am glad that he has you. I was his momma's momma."

Heather looked puzzled, "You mean you're Eric's maternal grandmother?"

"I was, but thanks to that idiot former son-in-law, Eric was adopted into a nice family, so…"

Joe looked at Heather, planning to wish her a happy birthday, but instead he turned to Grandma Laredo and commented, "Eric will always be your grandson, if you want to be a part of his life. My brother adopted a little boy and he has four grandparents as part of his life. You did nothing wrong to lose Eric, so you are welcome to visit and be a part of his life, whenever you like."

Grandpa Laredo was standing beside Grandma, so he replied, "You will be a great dad fer Eric. I can tell. We would like that very much."

Brian returned to the kitchen as Joe stopped in to check if things were ready. He and Maurice were talking about the fact that the boys would be away and he could spend some time with him…

"Actually, my father just told me that I have off from tomorrow afternoon through Sunday evening. Why don't we go get your stuff while the boys are away on their camping trip?"

"That would work out great for me." Joe averred.

"Oui, it makes sense. I do not have that much things. We can spend a day with my family there before we come back." Maurice responded.

"Then it's settled. If you need use of a vehicle, since you work for the Boys' Home, you can use one of our trucks or SUVs." Joe offered.

Maurice thanked Joe who went back to check on his guests while Maurice called his brother to let him know to expect them the following evening.

Joe stood on a chair and announced, "I want to thank everyone for showing up to help celebrate my mom's and my son's birthdays. Maurice has prepared a light lunch, if anyone is hungry, but we will be having cake and ice cream in about half an hour. Then in an hour, Eric and Mom will be opening presents."

A few people grabbed something to eat. Eric saw a bowl of fresh strawberries and grabbed just a few. Maurice and Brian smiled at him. Brian commented so that only Maurice could hear, "He's going to love that cake."

At the appointed time, Maurice and Brian brought out two carts. One had Heather's cake and the other had Eric's. Eric's cake had fourteen candles on it. Heather's just said, "Happy Birthday" in purple frosting.

Everyone started singing the traditional Birthday Song as Eric went to stand, ready to blow out his candles.

Heather looked at her cake and seemed disappointed. "Where are my candles?" she asked.

"I did not know your age and didn't want to insult you if I put thirty-seven on and you are only thirty-six," Maurice apologized.

"I like you, Maurice," Heather chuckled, "for the record, I am proud of my age. I turned forty-four today. At least you did use my favorite color for the lettering."

"Joe suggested it. Would you like me to put candles on your cake?"

"You can next year, but no, I'll just help Eric blow out his, if he needs it," Heather suggested.

Eric said, "We can blow out my candles together, Grandma." Heather stood beside Eric as they blew out the candles together.

Maurice explained what the cakes were and started cutting Eric's while Brian cut Heather's. "I'm guessing that you would like a piece of your cake," Maurice suggested to Eric.

Eric responded with a question, "Actually, I want to try some of Grandma's, too, but can I have my name?"

"That would be way too much cake, especially if you're wanting to try the spice cake. How about the 'E-R' or the 'I-C'?" Joe offered.

Eric explained, "I'm wanting to share it with Phoenix, Dad."

Joe smiled, "That's still a lot of cake, but it's not like you eat unhealthily. Go ahead."

"Great, now Phoenix can help me eat me," Eric chuckled.

Joe looked at Maurice as Eric walked over to Phoenix, "I think he's past his shy nervousness. I'd almost bet, those two do something besides kiss, tonight. I may need to have a talk with him."

As Eric sat down with Phoenix, he asked, "Wanna help eat me?"

"What?" being surprised by the question, Phoenix's eyes went big and he had a big smile on his face. He started, "I've been ready for a while, just waiting on… oh, you mean the cake."

Eric had a slight grin, "Yeah, I was referring to the cake, but if you really want to do more than kiss, I think I'm ready."

"I bought you something to have a present here, but…" Phoenix leaned over, "I'd really like to give you a blow job for your birthday." Eric didn't answer verbally, but his grin got bigger.

Xander, Tim, Patrick, Scott, Trevor and Roger were sitting together. Patrick saw the grin on Eric's face and asked, "What do you think that's all about?

"He's probably just happy being with Phoenix. I think they are as much in love as we are," Scott surmised.

"I heard him joking with Joe that he was going to have Phoenix help him eat himself," Roger stated.

Trevor watched the two for a bit and then suggested, "Perhaps he wasn't totally joking."

Joe stood and said, "Mom, Eric, if the two of you can come over here, we have plenty of presents for both of you to open."

"Can't I wait until I get home to open mine? Let Eric have the spotlight, today."

Joe insisted, "Not happening, Mom. Everyone would like to see what you get, and I know I can't wait until I see your face when you open mine." Heather and Eric took seats while Joe brought over a present for each. He instructed them, "Read aloud who it is from, then open it."

"This is from Dad and Daddy," Eric read before opening his present. He pulled the jacket from the box Joe had put it in and got excited, "This is so cool! Thank you, both."

"This is from Patrick and Jake," Heather read. She opened the present and pulled out a necklace with three stones in settings that "floated" around the chain. The first stone was a ruby, the second was an emerald and the third was a garnet.

Patrick explained, "It's a grandma necklace with Eric's, Jake's and my birthstones. The lady said that as you get more grandchildren, you can add more stones. She also said that it can be a mother's necklace if you want to add stones for Dad, Uncle Joe and Uncle Chris."

Heather had a tear in her eye, "It's perfect, I just love it."

"Did we do good?" Jake asked. Then he added, "Patrick suggested it, but let me help pay for it."

Joe handed Eric his next present while Heather was opening hers. As Eric opened it, he handed Heather one. Eric announced, "This is from Jake." And he opened it and pulled out the cowboy hat. "This one is black," Eric stated as he pulled it out. "I won't worry about getting it dirty as much as my white one."

When he saw the medium blue western shirt, his eyes bugged. "Oh wow, it's even my favorite shade of blue. I think I have a new favorite shirt." Jake was all smiles.

"This one is from Trevor and Roger," Heather announced. She carefully opened the envelope and grew the biggest smile on her face, "Nick, there are two tickets to Paris, can you believe it?"

There was commotion until Nick looked in the envelope...

He read aloud, "Paris -- Las Vegas. This is for an all-inclusive five-day, four-night stay in a suite, including all meals... and first-class airfare. There are also two passes for two full days at their spa."

"It's still a great present," Heather chimed. "Nick and I can finish our honeymoon."

"From Uncle Jim and Uncle Zac," Eric declared. "I think I need a crowbar to open it." Everyone chuckled as Joe handed Eric the crowbar. After working to open the crate, Eric finally pulled out the contents. "My own saddle!" Eric exclaimed as he looked at the name plate reading 'Property of Eric Archer-Bolt.'

Jim asked, "Do you like it?"

"Now I need a horse to put it on," Eric chuckled.

Heather read the card on her next present, "To a very special lady who makes being a mother look easy and has been patient and kind with this humble man. I love you more than words can express, Nick." The box wasn't very big, but when she opened it and saw a one carat black diamond ring, her jaw dropped. "Oh Nick, the card meant so much, and then seeing this. I love you so much."

"I never thought I would meet anyone like you, and then you graced me enough to become my wife. That ring doesn't even compare to you," Nick averred as he placed his arms around Heather. Then he kissed her.

Eric joked, "This present is from Phoenix. Are you sure it's safe for me to open in front of everyone?"

"It better be," Joe announced with a straight face, "because you are… opening it, that is."

Eric unwrapped the present and it was a model car. Phoenix stated, "I tried finding the Fenyr that you liked, but couldn't. I saw this car and the picture looked like the Shelby Cobra on your shirt, so I hope that you like it."

"Phoenix, it came from your heart. I love it," Eric replied.

After Eric and Heather finished with the presents inside, Buster told everyone, "Eric has two more presents outside. One from Jackson and Ryan, and another from Trevor and Roger."

As they went outside, Eric saw a black mare standing there with a blue ribbon. His face lit up, "You got me a horse?"

"Her name is Cire," Jackson stated. "That's C-I-R-E, not to be confused with Sire."

"That's Eric, backwards," Eric noted. "She's a beauty. Uncle Jim, I have that horse for my new saddle."

"Knowing you for as little as I have, I believe that this horse will mesh perfectly with your personality, but if you feel you need to…"

"OH NO!" Eric exclaimed, "she IS my horse, I already know we will get along."

"Are you ready to see what Trevor and Roger got for you?" Joe asked.

Eric was all smiles, "You bet!"

Just then, Trevor and Roger came around the building in a customized golf cart. Trevor was at the wheel and drove right up to Eric. It was designed to look like a blue Dodge Charger with white racing stripes. Both boys looked at Eric and shouted, "Happy Birthday, Eric!!!"

"Seriously? Is it legal for me to drive it?" Eric questioned.

Ryan advised, "It's legal for you to drive anything ON THE RANCH; it's private property. However, a golf cart isn't considered a motor vehicle, so it's legal for you to drive it, even on public roads. I do recommend utilizing an orange triangle sign, though."

I hope you enjoy the story and that it draws you in, wanting more. If you have any suggestions or concerns, don’t hesitate to email me.  Thoughts and suggestions are always welcomed and may or may not be implemented. Concerns will be considered and addressed as much as possible.

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

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