Pardner 4

By Patrick M. Browning

It's a "coming of age" story about a fellow that had a rough start but turned out to be a pretty good cattleman. He is a bare-knuckles fighter and certainly likes the ladies. I'm presenting this tale as fiction, but the preponderance is absolutely true!

• Language: English
• Publisher: Westwood Books Publishing
• Release date: Mar 3, 2022
• ISBN: 9781685366872

Patrick M. Browning

Patrick M Browning has spent his life Cowboying all over the west and deep into Old Mexico, managing some of the largest cattle and horse ranches in both countries. These many years in the saddle have given him the advantage of a perspective and knowledge of his subject matter, few writers of our generation have the benefit of drawing from. His works on Contemporary Cowboy life have a true to life feeling and flavor that only comes with actual experience. PMB, 'Lives the life he writes, and Writes the life he lives!"

Book preview

INTRODUCTION

For those of you new to these accounts of our man Pardner and his adventures, he is the living embodiment of the modern-day working ranch cowboy— the personification of what all men should be. He is the proverbial lover, fighter, and wild horse rider!

Contained herein are more true tales of his life, but due to many legal considerations, they are being presented as fiction and are to be enjoyed exclusively as such.

Thank you for riding along with him once again! If this is your first time sharing Pardner’s experiences, I thank you for trusting him to take you through this one safely. So, hold on to your seat, get a faraway look in your eyes, and enjoy this oft time wild and exciting ride!

PMB

CHAPTER 1

Melony’s family lawyer, Mr. Dobbs, pulled into the 2 Sues restaurant Tuesday morning to accompany Pardner to the Casa Grande, District Attorney’s office to turn himself in for the assault which led to the death of two of the members of the attempted rape of Melony and Susie, just over three months ago at the resort.

Before he left with Mr. Dobbs, Pardner made several phone calls then said his goodbyes to all three ladies Sue, Susie, and Melony. He assured them that no matter how long he was away, he would never stop loving them. He had called his banker and reconfirmed the ability of his girls to access the fight account and also called Mr. Monti explaining the situation and asked if he knew of anyone they could hire to come out and take some of the load off Sue and Susie. He told him that Melony was going to stay there and help all she could, but they would need an experienced chef to assist them getting through this difficult time, at least until they could get both Sue and Susie well again. He had called Howard the day before from the ranch and told him that he was going to turn himself in and asked him to please keep an eye on the ladies for him while he was gone.

Pardner left his hat, belt, and boots with Melony because he did not want them to get misplaced while in the custody of the state! He brought along an old work shirt, a well-worn pair of Wranglers, and some old tennis shoes he used to run in. He wasn’t going to give the prison system any of his good clothes. He remembered his terrible experience in the Mexican prison those many years ago where everything he had on was either stolen or torn to rags; that wasn’t going to happen again. He was not able to make himself believe that the American correctional system was all that much different than it was in Mexico.

Melony asked Mr. Dobbs if it was really necessary for Pardner to turn himself in.

Dobbs replied, Just because the reporter said she would stop hunting him and that there was no one else pursuing him, does not mean a thing! Remember, two men died by his hand! The police are not just going to let that go. It is best if we face this now before they figure out it was Pardner who committed these assaults. There is a great deal I can do because of the mitigating circumstances of the attempted rape that brought about Pardner’s actions. I cannot guarantee he will not have to serve any prison time, but I will do all in my power to keep it to as little as I possibly can.

He then asked if Pardner was ready. Pardner nodded in the affirmative and kissed each of the ladies good-bye.

He kissed little Susie first and told her, You get better for me sweetheart. We still have a lot of life to live together and I want you to be healthy to enjoy every minute of it! He kissed Sue next and said, Darling, don’t you dare work yourself to death while I am gone and beat me out of the proper thank you, you promised me! Then he turned to his beloved Melony. I will never forgive myself for allowing this to happen to you. I can only hope that someday you will be able to.

As he turned to walk away with Mr. Dobbs, he heard a heartfelt You were never to blame for any of it, Pardner! I love you! We all love you. She broke down crying and could say no more.

Mr. Dobbs, the barrister, and Pardner, who was dressed like a homeless man as opposed like the well-dressed cowboy he normally was, drove to the Casa Grande District Attorney’s office and went in. Mr. Dobbs was quite amazed with Pardner’s complete lack of fear or hesitation walking in to face possible murder charges. Once inside they had to wait in an outer office where several men were already waiting ahead of them, all dressed like cowboys. Pardner sat quietly and made the observation that most of the men were certainly not cattlemen, but were all sure duded up like them.

One by one, the men went into the DA’s office and after a few minutes came out some smiling. One of the men, who Pardner thought he might have seen somewhere before, winked at Pardner as he walked out. Two more men also dressed as cowboys came in after Pardner and Mr. Dobbs and sat silently in the outer office with them. Soon Pardner was called in to see the DA and the fellow looked flustered and said, I suppose you are here to confess to being the Casa Grande Mystery Man too?

Pardner started to speak, but Mr. Dobbs took hold of his arm, to stop him then spoke directly to the DA, Sir, this man works for a friend of mine and thinks he is the Mystery Man Hero. My friend has asked me to bring him in to confess to all crimes committed by said man, past, present, and future! I have tried to explain that frivolous and false confessions are themselves crimes, but my friend has insisted I bring him in to receive the punishment and/or the glory.

The DA filled out a short form discounting any possibility that this Pardner fellow could in fact be the Mystery Man and said, Young fellow, I am sorry to spoil your delusions of grandeur, but I have had fourteen other men come in here already, both yesterday and this morning! All claiming to be the Mystery Man, and there are still several more in the outer office. Every one of them comes much closer to fitting the description of our man closer than you do. You are going to have to find another route to fame, my friend. Here is a copy of a statement, denying your possible involvement in any of the Mystery Man’s actions. ‘With prejudice’, please get yourself a job and don’t come back here ever again. On your way out, please send the next supposed Mystery Man in. Thank you and good luck, young man.

What the hell just happened? Pardner asked Mr. Dobbs, once they were outside.

"I made a couple of calls yesterday to two of your friends. Melony told me she was sure they would do whatever they could to help you. They may have had a few men come in and recreate a ‘Spartacus’ moment for our DA friend. Your dressing like a bum as opposed to a cowboy only made it easier for the DA to believe you were just looking to get your name in the paper and in no way resembled the man they were looking for. So, my friend, you are free of this burden and will not be looked at again for these crimes of retribution. That is what ‘Dismissed with Prejudice’ means. Your part of this criminal investigation is closed permanently.

I can’t thank you enough, Sir! Pardner said sincerely.

I don’t work for thank yous, my friend! You will receive my bill and it will be astronomical! Mr. Dobbs said and Pardner did not care if he was teasing or not! This was apparently over. Mr. Dobbs continued with, You should thank both of the men Melony told me she thought might help you! Both Howard and Mr. Monti came through for you! I had the idea, but they pulled it off! I don’t believe I know of any two other men who could have done it!

Dobbs drove Pardner to the 2 Sues and when they walked in, Pardner saw Melony, Susie, Sue, and two men working in the kitchen. He thought he recognized the men, but from the back he could not identify them. As he stood there looking, a girl came up from behind him and asked if he wanted a booth or a table. He did not recognize her and was positive he had not seen her anywhere before.

Just then Melony saw him and all three came out to see him. They started asking how it went and how was it he was standing there and had not been locked up and fifty other questions all at once, then they suddenly stopped their questions and all kissed both him and Mr. Dobbs.

The whole scene was a bit chaotic but Pardner said, Calm down, ladies. Apparently Mr. Dobbs here know how to play hard Ball, and he damn sure knows how to put a team of expert players together! He then told them the story from start to finish. He ended with, Dobbs, Howard, and Mr. Monti got me out of this mess and I again owe them more than I can ever repay!

Mr. Dobbs said, I hope that is simply figuratively, my friend! I will expect to be compensated for my part in this fiasco!

Again Pardner could not tell if Dobbs was serious or joking so he said, Sir, I give you my word, you will be paid well and promptly for all your help! That is the end of it!

Damn, Melony! You are correct. This ordeal has completely killed this big fellow’s sense of humor! Mr. Dobbs then smiled for the first time since arriving at the 2 Sues.

About that time Carlos came out of the kitchen and said hello to Pardner and added, Mr. Monti sent me and Julio here on assignment to help your girls. We will be here as long as you need us, my dear friend. We have rooms at the motel just down the street and are both very happy to be able to help. Mr. Monti told us yesterday to ‘Come a running’ that you needed help and he was damn sure going to see that you had it! He sent two of the waitresses as well. They will be rotating off with two other teams of 2 until things are back under control here again.

I’ll be damned! Was all Pardner could say.

Very likely so! Mr. Dobbs said! And this time his smile was accompanied by a chuckle. Since I am already here, what are the chances I can get something to eat?

Pretty damn good. Follow me I will show you to a seat! Susie said, sounding almost like her old self.

He ate a large dinner and thanked them for a delicious meal. Susie handed him a bill and said, We don’t work for thank yous either, Dobbs! Here is your check you can pay at the register. She gave him a beautiful smile. Pardner had included Dobbs’ statement about not working for thanks in his dissertation to the ladies and Susie remembered it word for word!

Fair enough, young lady! Dobbs said, and everyone laughed.

Things were going to be alright here at the 2 Sues once again. Melony stayed with the Sues at their house and Pardner came down from the ranch in Chino, a couple times a week for several months. Once both Sues were again well and happy, Melony moved back up to the ranch with Pardner, Julio stayed on permanently with the Sues, and Carlos went back to the Casa.

Pardner and Melony made many trips to Gila Bend as often as possible to see the girls, and life was good. Before all this happened, Pardner and Melony had made friends with a Prescott bartender named Deion and she came out the Goodyear ranch often and visited with them.

Deion is a very lovely, but previously quite confused young woman with an interesting story of her own. In her quest for true love, she made a couple of errant layovers with thoughtless and cruel men. Eventually Deion erroneously determined that something was wrong with her, and she must be at fault for the treatment she was receiving at the hands of men who were supposed to love her. She made the decision to ‘play for the other team’ and found gentler and more sustainable relationships in these same sex associations.

One night, Pardner and Melony were celebrating with four working cowboys from Reno, Nevada, in the bar where she worked, the famous ‘Matts’ on Whiskey Row Prescott Az. Deion was immediately attracted to Melony, as was anyone else who ever saw her, but also found herself admiring Pardner and the Reno cowboys. Before the night was over, she was enjoying their company as well that of Melony and Pardner. It turned out Deion was simply searching for love and discovered that the gender of the partner was not nearly as important as their character was. She danced and played with Pardner, the four Reno cowboys, and even Melony, enjoying all equally. The next evening when the ever growing crew was joined by two very special young waiters/bouncers on their attempt to take the ‘Stroll’ the length of the famous Whiskey Row, drinking at every establishment that sold alcoholic beverages for consumption on the premises. This ‘Stroll’ used to consist of forty stops from the Kentucky Bar to the Depot House at the old train station but had, at the time of this journey, been reduced to twenty, still quite an impressive feat!

The first night when Deion met Pardner and Melony, they were not only joined by the four Reno cowboys but also by four young girls, Candy, Star, Sugar, and Buffy, all looking for a little excitement. They were also joined by Liz, the former girlfriend of a man who made the mistake of saying something derogatory about the Great Man, C.W. ‘Doc’ Pardee, the man who raised Pardner. After a small altercation settling the matter of the boyfriend’s lack of respect for ‘Doc’, Liz paired up with Herm, the youngest of the Reno cowboys and before long Deion had gotten comfortable with Randy, another of the Reno crew. This left Russel and Tony from the Reno boys to entertain the four younger girls who had joined the group last.

The next day while shopping, Melony ran onto the four young girls, and they all wound up in Mats where they met the four Reno cowboys. Herm was with Liz, and Deion was about to get off work and was obviously going to be with Randy once her shift was over. They all went back to the Hassayampa Inn and waited in Pardner and Melony’s room until he got back from riding the fresh horses back home at the Goodyear the ranch, a short distance away in Chino Valley. They decided they had visited enough, so they left the room, and all went down to the bar and waited there until Pardner arrived.

The decision was made while waiting for Pardner, to attempt the ‘Stroll’ down Whisky Row. Since Pardner was the only one in the crowd that had made the ‘Stroll’ he advised they eat something before beginning such a tremendous undertaking. They went to Cattleman’s Steak house and while there, met two fine young men who were working as waiters and bouncers. Having two extra ladies in the gang, they were invited to join them in their escapade down the Row!

These two strapping young men, Al and Brian, were more than willing to accept the invitation to come out and play! Especially considering that, Buffy and Sugar had staked claims on Russel and Randy, so Candy and Star were making it quite obvious to Al and Brian, they would certainly like them to join the gang. After noticing both Brian and Al hesitating a second looking a little sheepish, due to a possible shortage of funds, Pardner made it clear that the night would be on him as a gift to his darling Melony! The boys then jumped in with both feet.

As the ‘Stroll’ most often goes the gang started fading quickly and soon there were only Pardner, Melony, Deion, Brian, and Al, remaining. There were still five more stops to make before the finish at the Depot House. Plus, this one at the Mexican Restaurant, making it six more drinks to the end! Brian and Al were all but completely done in and Melony could not go any further. Deion was still holding her own and so Pardner left the three, Melony, Brian, and Al to visit and sober up at the Cantina while he and Deion stayed the course and proceeded to the Depot House and Victory! (Even as reduced as Victory was, with only twenty of the original forty establishments still operating, it was still a noteworthy accomplishment!) Melony and the two young men continued getting acquainted during Pardner and Deion’s absence. Once the quest was finished and Pardner and Deion returned to the Cantina, the five of them walked back up Gurley St. to the Hassayampa Inn, where Pardner had rented a second room in case he and Melony might be accompanied back to the Hotel.

Pardner and Melony had a wonderful time visiting that night as did Deion, Al, and Brian! That is enough said about the visiting going on at the Hassayampa Inn that night!

The morning after the Prescott ‘Stroll’ adventure, Pardner and Melony drove the two and a half hours to the 2 Sues in Gila Bend from the Hassayampa Inn in Prescott. The new Cadillac made it a fun and easy trip and Pardner was able to renew his association with the two girls, but most importantly, Melony met Sue and Susie! It was a surprise visit so the Sues did not have the opportunity to get nervous about meeting Pardner’s lady, but Melony was as apprehensive as she had ever been. She loved Pardner and knew these two ladies loved him also! What made her anxiety even more pronounced was she knew he loved them too.

Her dread was all wasted energy as the Sues fell for Melony from the moment they met. Melony was also immediately drawn to both of them. Pardner treated them to an overnight stay at a fine resort just fifty-three miles away, allowing them all to get better acquainted and relax a little, which the two Sues had not taken time to do since opening their restaurant! The four had a wonderful time at the Frisco Grande Resort and laughed and loved for two nights and a day. Late the second night, Pardner and Sue wanted to just go up to the Penthouse suite that Pardner had splurged on and rented for both nights, and visit. Susie wanted to go back down to the pool and be a little naughty again like they had earlier in the day and the night before. Pardner said he would go with her so she did not get into too much trouble, but Melony talked him out of it and said she would go down and play with Susie for a little while, and Pardner and Sue could stay in the suite and visit.

That story has been told in Pardner 3 so will not be repeated in full here. It will suffice to say that the two ladies, Susie and Melony got a bit too playful and a group of men started to take advantage of that, to the point of attempting a double rape.

When the two girls had been gone longer than Pardner thought they should be, he checked out the Penthouse window and saw the commotion down at the pool! He sprinted down and saved the ladies from the mob and returned them to the safety of the suite and Sue, then went back down and enacted his revenge. Pardner was never one to half do anything and this was certainly no exception. In his mind there was no worse crime than rape and these attempted rapes were on two women he loved. Retribution would be swift and violent. It proved to be too much so, and he had underestimated the severity and force he was handing out his justice. Two of the rapists later died from their injuries, three others were injured, and two more were permanently crippled.

Pardner had been in prison in Mexico when he was just sixteen and lost an eye and nearly his life from the experience and was not going to take the chance that American prisons were any better. So, he fled! Our story started when he returned to the 2 Sues so now you are pretty much caught up. I told you all that to tell you all this;

Once sometime later, when Deion came to visit with Pardner and Melony, at the Goodyear Ranch, she was nearly despondent. Pardner asked what had happened and she told the story of how she, Al, and Brian were partying too hard and too late a few days ago and they drove home early in the morning and were hit by a Semi, trying to beat it crossing an intersection and were both killed. Their funeral was yesterday.

Melony said, Oh, Sweetheart! I am so sorry, they were such wonderful boys and I know how much they meant to you.

I quit my job, and lost my room above the bar at Matts. I am going to stop drinking! I have to! I feel so responsible. I encouraged them every step of the way, until it killed them! she said and broke down sobbing.

Melony took her into the house and told her she could stay with them as long as she needed a place. Deion stayed and helped with everything she knew how to do. She was always willing to try anything that was asked of her and did her best every time. After a month, she told Pardner and Melony that she needed to go and get her life back together. She had mooched off them long enough. Melony asked her what she was going to do and she said all she knew was bartending and waitressing and did not want to be in a bar and face the constant temptation of starting to drink again. Melony just held her and told her she didn’t have to go, that she was loved right here and could stay as long as she wanted.

Pardner also enjoyed Deion’s company, but could see she had healed enough that she needed to get out on her own and start a life she could call hers. As always, Pardner had a plan! Deion, gather your things. We are going to take you for a little ride to your new home. Melony pack enough for a couple of days and I will go get the car ready and ask Agnes to watch Sam for us, he said.

Asking Agnes if she would watch his dog Sam was like asking a kid if he wanted ice cream! Every minute Sam was not at the barn with Pardner or in the house with Melony, he was in the kitchen loving on Agnes, and she was loving him right back.

No one talked about where they were going. Melony had a pretty good idea where, and Deion didn’t seem to really care. If Pardner thought it was the right place for her, that was good enough! When they pulled up in front of the 2 Sues, Deion remarked, What a lovely place! Is this where the two of you sneak off to every once in a while?

Yes. Two of our dearest friends own it, and I want you to meet them. We have all been through a lot together and I believe you all need each other. Are you game, darling? Pardner asked Deion.

Absolutely! What if they don’t like me? Deion asked nervously.

They will love you just as we do, unconditionally! Melony said.

When they walked in, Pardner behind the two ladies, Susie screamed, Momma! He’s back and he has another model with him! Susie ran past both Deion and Melony and jumped into Pardner’s arms kissing him like she hadn’t seen him in years, not just weeks. In between kisses, she said, Hello, Melony. I will get to you next! Then after more kissing, Who is this knockout?

Melony said, This is Deion. Pardner wanted you to meet her!

Momma, you better get out here quick! Pardner is starting a harem, and we don’t want to get left out! Susie squealed.

Sue was hurrying out already but quickened at the starting-a-harem comment, and said, Pardner, where do you come up with so many beautiful women?

Deion turned to Melony and said, I am going to love it here!

Being the class act she was, Sue said, How wonderful that Pardner has brought you to us, and you are going to stay, I hope?

I would really like to, Ma’am. I am a pretty good waitress and a real hard worker, Deion said, like she was interviewing for a job.

Deion, first of all, my name is Sue. There is no Ma’am to it! Sue said, using an adaptation of one of Pardner’s most often used sayings.

Pardner grinned his special grin and Melony said, Well I suspected he was rubbing off on you Sue, but now I know for sure! And she laughed out loud.

Secondly, Sue continued, you don’t need to apply for a position here, Sweetheart. Pardner owns this place and everything and everyone in it! He brought you here to us, so you are now part of the family! Like it or not! Sue finished.

I love the sound of that, Sue! I have had a lifetime of not being a part of anything, especially a family, Deion said.

It damn near broke Pardner’s heart to hear. Deion, I want you to know that there are not two more wonderful people in the entire world than these two gals, here. If you would really like to be a part of something, how about being a part of this?

I cannot think of anything I would like more. Like I said, I have never been a part of a family. You and Melony were the first people to treat me like a person and not just a plaything. I will never be able to thank you enough, Deion said sincerely.

Don’t get your hopes up, Sis. Pardner is really hard to thank! I have been trying for a long time now! Susie said, being just a bit naughty.

She is right, darling. I can’t get him to let me thank him as often as I want to! Sue added.

Melony added, I can’t understand it either, Deion, I have encouraged him many times, but it is some kind of noble mindset he has! I don’t get it at all, look at them! They are both mouthwatering! Melony said.

They certainly are, both of them! Deion said, and both Sue and Susie smiled at her and Sue said, This is going to work out just fine, Pardner, just fine indeed!

I will get Deion an apartment today and you can show her what you need her to do while I am gone, Pardner said.

The hell you will! Deion will stay with us. We have more room than we need, and I would love to have her, I mean we would love to have her. Sue blushed at the slip.

Melony and Pardner stayed until the restaurant closed and followed Sue, Susie, and Deion back to Sue’s house. When they arrived, Susie showed Deion to her room and where the bathroom was and told her they would be sharing the bathroom as there were only the two and the big bath was off Sue’s room. Deion said that would be wonderful and that she never had such a nice room before. Well Sis, you have one now! Susie said and Deion started crying. What’s wrong, Sis? Susie asked.

This is all so wonderful, especially you! You let me share your bathroom and you called me Sis! I never had anyone that wanted to be my sister before! It makes me feels so very special," Deion said through happy tears.

Look, Sis! Pardner obviously loves you and that means that you were already special before you came here. We are just here to remind you of that every day! Susie said.

Are you two going to spend all night in there or are you going to come and let the rest of us enjoy Deion too! Sue hollered down the hall!

We are trying to decide that right now, Mom! Susie said, sounding very much like her old self! Shortly the two girls came walking out of the bathroom arm in arm and smiling like only two young girls who just discovered a new best friend can. Pardner and Melony stayed a while and enjoyed the warm heartfelt welcome the two Sues showed to Deion, and then went to the little old motel that they had rented a room in and told the three ladies they would come in and see them for breakfast in the morning. Sue invited them to stay the night but Pardner explained they had already rented a room but would see them in the morning before they went back up the hill to home.

Before they left, Pardner asked what all Sue might need to accommodate an extra person living in the house and was told, Pardner, all a home needs is a family, and all a family needs is love, and we are blessed with both! Our family now has four women and the perfect man! The strange part is that he is all the man any of us want or need!

Wow! I would love to meet him! Where do you keep him hid? Pardner said and had his silly grin fixed firmly on his face.

Almost the perfect man! Sue, are you sure we shouldn’t shop around a bit more? Melony teased.

A little shopping might be a good idea at that, Melony! Where do you think we should look first? Sue joined in the teasing. Pardner looked hurt and pouted some.

Susie asked Deion, Have you ever seen anyone so sensitive before in your life? Poor baby needs a hug!

"I can take care of that! Deion said and threw caution to the wind and figured she could play too, then gave Pardner a hug and kiss like the one she gave him at the end of their successful completion of the ‘Stroll’ down Whiskey Row, that had left his heart pounding and his head spinning.

Ladies, I believe that Deion has found out how you can properly thank Pardner! You just have to force a thank you on him! Melony said and giggled as she kissed the big cowboy she loved so very much. They all spent the next several hours thanking Pardner for all he had ever done and for anything he might yet being going to do! That is as detailed as the gratitude party needs to be described here.

CHAPTER 2

Pardner and Melony went back up to the ranch and continued to live life there. It was a little calm compared to all they had experienced the past six months, but a little calm is what they both needed right now. Pardner was starting the ranch’s fresh horses and Melony was taking care of the ranch business. She was remarkable; she knew every detail of the ranching industry and especially her piece of it. Her crew was as dedicated as any in the country and worked hard to help her make the ranch a steadily growing and thriving operation. Curt and Jerome, her two longest employed cowboys worshiped the ground she walked on, and young Peter was as enthusiastic as any hand ever was. He was indeed the youngest of her crew, but he had been raised on the ranch and knew every fence post, waterline and drinker on the entire place. He was rapidly becoming her favorite hand. The older men didn’t really seem to mind his being asked to lead gathers and tell them which areas to ride, too much, but the special attention he received from Melony put knots in their ropes for sure.

They all were in love with her and would walk into hell for her, but this kid spending so much time with her was more than they could bear. Something had to be done and now! They plotted and conspired and tried to come up with some way to make him look bad in front of Melony so she would take him down a notch or two, but they could not come up with anything that might not get him hurt. Everyone liked the kid, and were just jealous; they did not want to kill the little rascal.

Like a lot you young fellows, as Melony placed more responsibility on him and gave him more authority, instead of taking it as an opportunity to learn and grow into a really good cattleman, Peter got to thinking he must already be the best hand who ever lived. He got so arrogant and ignorant that Jerome came to Pardner in the horse corral one day and asked him if he would talk to the kid. As much as the men all loved and respected Melony they were thinking they may need to look for somewhere else to go.

Pardner never would tolerate a man who threatened to quit, if this thing or that thing did not change. An example was once when a good hand and friend of Pardner’s said, If I don’t get a better truck I am going to have to leave! Two of the other men have newer trucks than I do and that ain’t right.

Won’t it start or run anymore? I see you have our stock trailer on it with two horses in it. Did it get you to the south corrals and back safely? Why would you need a different truck? Pardner asked these reasonable questions.

Well, yes it did! It runs good and starts every time, but like I said, a couple of the other men have newer trucks and I should have one too. Was this fellow’s answer.

Even considering how hard it is to get good cowboys and that this man had been a friend of his for years, Pardner just told the fellow, There are no new trucks budgeted this year and we will need to baby the ones we have a bit longer. He paused for effect, then, So, I accept your resignation! Come with me to the office and we will fill out your exit paperwork.

I don’t want to quit! I just want a better truck, the fellow said.

If you didn’t want to quit, you shouldn’t have threatened to. You stated your conditions. You want a new truck or you will have to leave, and I am not going to meet them, so goodbye! I will need you out of the ranch house by the end of the week. I will have a new man in there Monday, so be sure you are out by then and have the house cleaned up before you go. Good luck.

I don’t have anywhere to go! Where will I take my horses, and what am I going to do with all my stuff?

That is a real problem, when a man quits and doesn’t have a place to move to. Possibly you should have thought of that before you threatened to quit. Maybe you should have come to me like a man and asked if there was any chance to get a better truck. You could have listed any of the deficiencies with the one you have or any of the problems it has created for you, instead of acting like a spoiled child and trying to leverage a new truck with the threat of quitting, Pardner scolded and that was the end of it.

Back to Jerome and the Goodyear ranch cowboy crew. What are you saying Jerome? Are you all threatening to quit? Pardner asked a bit harshly.

Hell no, Pardner! I am just saying that this damn kid has taken the fun out of working here! We are totally dedicated to Ms. Melony and this ranch and thrilled to be working with you and we all like the kid. He has just become a real jerk and thinks he has the right to be one! Is there anything you can do to help us? Jerome asked.

Yep! Was all Pardner gave as an answer.

Thank you. This is not just where we work, it is our home, Jerome stated to a man who understood that better than most anyone, but was happy to hear that Jerome and the crew felt that way as well.

That evening at supper, Pardner asked Melony how Peter was working out as foreman and she said, I never made Peter foreman! Why would you ask that, Pardner? Melony asked.

There are some problems with the crew, and he is starting to be rude to the men. They think he has your ear, and he is getting a bit cocky. Pardner addressed the issue.

Fire him! she said.

Ok, Pardner answered, but felt there was more coming.

He was right, and in a moment Melony added, That damn kid! He knows the ranch better than any of the other men and I tried to use that to help things go a bit more smoothly during the gathers. It is my fault! I never thought he would get power hungry. He is just easy to talk to and he understands how I want things done. I was hoping that he would jump in and carry some of the load. I will not tolerate arrogance, especially when someone uses me as their excuse! Run his ass off, Pardner! Melony said, the boss in her rising to the surface.

Melony got a troubled look on her face, so Pardner asked her, What’s wrong, babe? Having second thoughts, about firing the kid?

No! I just don’t know what we are going to do for a lead man, is all. She asked more than stated.

Well, sweetheart, both Jerome and Curt have been with you ever since you took the ranch back over. They both worship you and either of them would do you a good job as your lead man. I would suggest, we make them co-leaders and keep the kid, but get him back in line by explaining he could stay but we were taking his mistaken assumed authority away.

Whatever you think, Pardner. You know how cowboys think better than I apparently do! Won’t he be embarrassed and pouty? she asked, concerned about Peter’s reaction.

I believe he will be disappointed that he won’t be moving into the house with you, but I hope he will see that he wasn’t ready to be in a lead position yet and try to mature a little, Pardner both teased and said.

Why would he ever think that I was going to move him in here?

Let’s see. You are the most beautiful woman anywhere in the world and he is a 20-year-old kid who has had a crush on you his entire life, and you have been giving him considerable special attention. I can see where he might think there was more than a foreman’s position in this for him! Pardner stated. Now, sweetheart, don’t tell me you haven’t noticed the way he looks at you when you drive out and ask him to go look at some part of the ranch with you.

He is a good looking kid, I will have to admit that! she said, looking off into nowhere, teasing Pardner a little.

You are a real peach, my love! Pardner responded. Maybe I had better run him off to protect my spot in the house!

Your spot is safe, big fellow! I was just thinking there might be enough room for one more! she teased, but this time Pardner had a ready response.

I believe you are right, babe! I’ll drive down and bring Deion back, to fill that spot for us! he said very satisfied with himself.

She smiled then had a very serious look come over her. It is terrible what happened to Al and Brian, isn’t it Pardner? Melony said out of the blue.

Yes it is, Melony. Have you been thinking there was enough room in here for two more? he asked, not really teasing.

Nope! But I wanted you to be thinking about it! She giggled and added, You deal with Peter any way you think best and I will stop showing him favoritism. I can see that it can cause problems. She said very businesslike.

I will take care of it Melony, he said then, A Good looking kid! Damn girl, you are incorrigible!

I do my best, big fellow! Every time I get the chance! She giggled, and they laughed about times they have had and more that they were going to have, Melony spoke of the passed on opportunity she had with Al and Brian at the Hassayampa, just before time for bed, then the conversation turned to even more specific matters, that due to their private nature will not be included here.

Pardner was out early, as was his custom, and while the men were getting saddled for the day’s work, Pardner asked Peter to go for a walk with him. The kid had gotten so arrogant that he figured this was going to be some official notification of advancement in his powers. Peter, you are a good boy, but you seem to be having trouble becoming a good man. Peter was arrogant but wasn’t stupid and even though he wanted to flare up at this obvious insult, he did not! Pardner continued, The boss gave you an opportunity to rise in position and be of more use to the ranch. You have shown that you were not ready for it by becoming an ass! Now I could just run you off the place and go on with our lives, but I think that in a few more years you might actually become a man and be a benefit to the cowboy crew and the ranch.

Pardner paused to see Peter’s reaction before he continued. There wasn’t really much of a reaction of any kind so Pardner continued with, Now when we get back to the rest of the men, I am going to make Jerome and Curt, Co-Lead men and you will be able to go back to being a cowboy and I expect you to congratulate them on their promotion. This won’t appear to be a demotion for you anyone except you, because you were never made Lead man to begin with. You just started acting like you were. So, are you ready to go back and get on with life here with the understanding, you are one of a crew, not the head of it? Pardner asked.

Pete started to say something, but Pardner didn’t like the look on the kid’s face so stopped him, Now Peter, if you were about to say that you need to hear this from the Boss Lady, this conversation is going to end very badly for you. I am extending you the courtesy of allowing you to make the choice of staying and behaving yourself or leaving now! There are no other options for you! Do you understand me? This was one of the times Pardner required a verbal response and waited for Peter to give one.

Yes Sir, I understand. Pardner did not offer his ‘The name is Pardner, there is no Sir to it’ speech as he thought a bit of respect would be good for the boy right now.

They walked back to the rest of the crew who were now saddled and ready to load their horses into the trailers and drive out to the far end of the ranch to start a pasture move.

Pardner said, Gentlemen, I have been talking with young Peter here and I asked him who he thought would be a good Lead man! He told me it was an even toss-up between Curt and Jerome! I have decided that since I tend to agree with him, I am going to make both of you head cowboys and let you share in the responsibilities of helping with the day-to-day operation of the ranch. Congratulations men, now let’s get to work.

I would like to say something, Pardner if you don’t mind, Peter asked. Pardner gave him the go ahead and Peter continued with, Congratulations Curt and Jerome! You have really been the head cowboys here this entire time and I just let my ego get me in your way. I apologize to you both and all the rest of you for being an arrogant ass. Pardner is going to let me stay when he could have just as easily run me off the place and I am going to try to prove to him and all of you that he made the right decision. It is damn hard being a kid sometimes!

Well said, Peter. Well said indeed! Pardner commented.

Jerome and Curt went on with their work exactly as they had always done and except for when they were all out and a decision needed to be made about how to do something with the cattle, an observer would not realize they had been given the new authority. This is the way a head cowboy should handle himself and his crew. No shouting and beating on one’s chest, trying to prove you are in charge, but simply helping make the choices necessary to get the job done as efficiently and effectively as possible. Jerome and Curt did exactly that, and even more important is that Peter began to see all the errors of his ways. In a few short years he might possibly become a head cowboy himself, maybe even right here on the Goodyear Ranch!

Pardner started most of the horses, and now that the crew was working together very efficiently, he and Melony were spending more time in Gila Bend with the ladies there. Deion had truly become a member of the family in every aspect of their life. She was just a few years older than Susie and although they looked nothing alike in a very short time, everyone assumed they were sisters and both girls loved it, but neither of them was as happy with that as much as Sue. Deion was actually built closer to the way Sue was than Susie, and Susie favored Sue in looks a bit more. It was easy to see why they were rapidly accepted as a family. When Melony and Pardner would visit them, they would all five certainly act as if they were one family! It was a beautiful thing to witness. These people loved one another and were loved in returned with equal enthusiasm.

Susie kept things jumping now that she had returned to her former health and vitality, and Deion thought that anything Susie suggested was a good idea. Susie was not trashy sexy again yet and certainly did not tease men like she had before, but was still a free spirit, to say the least. When the old colonel would come in for his regular weekly visit for Cowboy Boiled Coffee and his favorite pie, the Choconut Cream that Sue had invented, Susie would bring him weak tea and a Danish. Then she would sit in the booth next to him and tell him stories, nonstop about shoe shopping or a new purse she had seen. The colonel being the cowboy gentleman he was, would listen until she stopped for a breath then mention that tea and a Danish was not what he came in for, then he would smile at this pretty young nut and seemed happy she chose him to aggravate! Now that Deion was there, the two girls would tag team him until he weakened and just interrupted them requesting his coffee and pie. He always smiled and left them a good tip and never forgot to thank Sue for keeping the girls busy so they did not have time to wreak havoc in town!

Sue had her hands full with both of them and loved every minute of it! As silly as Susie was Deion was every bit as willing and went along with anything Susie proposed. Susie had not forgotten her terrifying experience at the Frisco Grande, but had physically recovered from the devastating aftereffects she suffered. All that is, except for the night terrors. She had gained her weight back and looked strong and beautiful, and she was sleeping some better now, but would still wake up some nights wringing wet with sweat and screaming. Not as often as earlier but still much too often to be healthy for her.

After Deion moved in and Susie had another of these horrifying episodes, Deion asked Sue if it would be alright if she moved her twin bed into Susie’s room so she would be closer to Susie and possibly be of some comfort during one of these episodes. Susie thought it was a wonderful idea, but the room would not accommodate both Susie’s double bed and Deion’s twin. Susie offered to give her double away and get herself a twin so there would be adequate space for the two smaller beds. Deion told her not to give away her beautiful bed and suggested they just sleep together in the double. This sounded reasonable to everyone and that is the way they did it from then on. They teased each other that if either one ever brought a man home, the other one would have to go back to Deion’s old twin bed in her room. They both giggled and agreed if they ever had a man in there, it would be Pardner and they both would stay in the double with him!

This sleeping arrangement worked out wonderfully and eventually solved the horrific night terrors Susie had been suffering. Deion being there to hold and comfort her as they were occurring until she woke up, was steadily lessening both the severity and the frequency of these events.

CHAPTER 3

As was often said in old Western movies, Meanwhile back at the ranch, it was October and time again to gather everything and wean the spring calves and work and pregnancy check the cows. The calves would be sold the first of December, and Pardner and his buyers preferred at least a 45-day weaning before shipping and sixty days would be better, but that was often times hard to accomplish. But that was the goal anyway and they always came as close to the 60-day mark as possible.

Before it was time to start the works, Pardner had been riding the horses that had not been worked with and had begun with the four he had started with originally, back before the long delay caused by the incident at the Frisco Grande: Andy, Barney, Mouse, and Melbourne.

The gelding Lord Melbourne who had been so very anemic when Pardner first started working with Melony’s horses, that he had to be turned out, and Melbourne had been being given Red Cell and Manna Pro for several months now. Pardner had asked Sancho to feed the horse these supplements, way back then and Sancho just continued feeding him the supplements in a daily ration of grain. Sancho was the Mexican who took care of the barn maintenance and was charged with Melbourne’s rehabilitation, he also happened to be the cowboy crew cook, Angelina’s husband.

The vet had discovered Melbourne had a rare kind of intestinal parasite infestation and had treated him for them, eliminating the parasites from Melbourne’s system. With Pardner hiding out for three months and all the aftermath that followed, he had not thought about Melbourne in much too long. When he started back working on the horses he looked for Melbourne, but did not see him anywhere. He asked Sancho where he had put the horse and was told he was there in the run behind the barn. Sancho also said Melbourne had turned color and was now a beautiful Blood Bay as opposed to the very light Brown Bay he had been before he got healthy again.

Pardner walked around behind the barn and was both surprised and a bit embarrassed he had walked by this run several times and had not recognized it as being Melbourne. Pardner was quite famous for remembering an animal years after seeing it only once and here was Melbourne who he had worked with several times and did not immediately recognize him. In Pardner’s defense, even though Melbourne had always been a well-built horse even when anemic, he wasn’t a patch then to what he was now! Sancho had taken his assignment very seriously and never missed a single feeding of grain and blood building supplements. Pardner told Sancho what a great job he had done and teased him that if he ever became a Pig farmer he wanted Sancho to be his head feeder! Melbourne was as fat and slick as a horse could be without being too heavy. He looked more like a standing stallion than a ranch gelding and Pardner loved it! Sancho, Fat is a pretty color! He complimented the Mexican man who had done such a wonderful job feeding this recovering horse.

Once life had settled down some and Pardner started working with the horses again, Melbourne was one of the first he worked with. Melbourne not only looked different, he acted like a different horse completely. He was still smart and kind but felt so good he was damn sure a handful. Pardner started over from the very beginning with all four of these horses and they came around fairly quickly. Andy become a good useful horse and had finally quit bucking fits, and Barney got over his nervousness and was also a dependable ranch gelding. Mouse was as good as Pardner thought he was going to be and never made a bad move through the entire training process. Pardner put all three of them into the cowboys remuda, but he held Melbourne out and continued with his schooling. He had something special now that he was well and Pardner had a plan for him. He continued bringing in three more fresh horses at a time but kept Melbourne up and worked with him daily.

Melony had begun coming out and watching Pardner ever since his return from his forced sabbatical when he was in hiding. She would walk down to the breaking corrals and sit on the fence or stand outside and watch him work. She was still impressed and amazed with the magic Pardner could exhibit when working with a horse. He would talk to her while he was working and explain each step he was taking with every horse, everyone being slightly different than any other.

She commented on how beautiful Melbourne had become and wonderfully he was doing. She asked Pardner why he was taking so much extra time with him as he seemed to already be further along than any of the others he had turned over to the cowboys. I am starting him for you, sweetheart! I want him perfectly bombproof before I give him to you.

Oh, Pardner! That is so wonderful. I haven’t ridden is a very long time. I remember all the fun we had riding together before and I have really missed it. Especially now that I have been watching you again. Thank you so much! I love you, Pardner!

No need to think me, my love. This is strictly selfish! I remember how much I enjoyed our rides together too! I remember the times when we dismounted and visited out on the ranch the most fondly! he said and grinned his very special grin.

Pardner, you are going to make me blush! Melony said, being unusually shy.

If given the opportunity I damn sure will, sweetheart, Pardner teased, and then added, Run up to the house, babe, and get some riding clothes on. Melbourne is ready for you. I believe you will enjoy riding him.

She did and trotted to the house as excited as only a girl about to get a new horse can! Pardner saddled one of the fresh horses he had been working with a few days and felt he was ready to take out and see some of the world outside of the corrals. Besides if the horse had a fit, Melony could pick him up on Melbourne. Pardner was sure there was not a horse on the ranch any faster or stronger than Melbourne and there was certainly not a more accomplished rider on the ranch than Melony! It did matter how long it had been since she had ridden, he would trust her to be there if he got into trouble and needed her to be.

She came back out, and Pardner had to stop and tell himself that he was not dreaming! Melony was wearing a very old and faded pair of cowboy cut Wranglers and one of his Chambray western shirts that even though was much too large looked great on her.

I hope you don’t mind, Pardner. I have not had any work clothes in a long time and found these old pants but couldn’t find a blouse to wear.

Darling, I have never seen anyone look better to go for a ride horseback.

We can go shopping and get me some things that are appropriate for me to work in, if you actually want me to ride with you a little, she said.

You couldn’t look any better, sweetheart. I don’t want you to ride a little with me. I want you to ride a lot with me, my love. You have done a wonderful job running this ranch from the office. Now let’s get you running it from out on it! Horseback is the best way to do that.

Pardner, I have told you how much I love you, haven’t I?

Not in the last few minutes, babe, and I was starting to worry you may have forgotten and I was going to need to remind you! he teased.

Yep! The perfect man! Almost! she said, teasing him back.

She came into the corral and stepped up on Melbourne and sat still for a moment then stepped off the off side and right back on. Just checking! she said.

Damn, I love everything about you, babe! Pardner said sincerely.

It took my doing something you taught me to do to get you to realize that? she asked, still teasing him.

No! he said like he had been caught at something then added, It sure didn’t hurt your standing any though!

She shook her head at the nut and said, Ok, Boss! Where are we heading?

"Let’s ride out to our spot, darling. I have been avoiding going there and believe riding out to it now with you, I will be able to handle