Major STEAM ALERT on this folks! Get your ice cubes out and sit back! If this isn't your thing...skip past the first section. It's right out of the gate, so hold onto your britches!

Also, thank you to those that take time to leave a review. I would love to hear from some more of you! :) Thanks for reading!

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July 19th, 2014 – Hope Meadows Ranch

Elizabeth had just finished putting the leftover food away when she picked up a glass of ice water sitting on the island. She carried it to the sink and began to pour out the contents, when her mind immediately flashed to their last day in the studio and she instantly grew hot. The kids had just left with Sam to go to her house to play with their cousins, and Jack was in his office working on paperwork.

She covered the top of the glass with two fingers, poured out the water, and headed outside.

Jack was at his desk when Elizabeth entered and leaned against the door frame.

"Hey, Cowboy," she said, holding the glass behind her back.

Jack looked up from the computer and smiled at his mischievous looking wife.

"Hi, Beth." He leaned back in the leather office chair and eyed his wife. "Need something?"

Elizabeth strolled over to the desk and set the glass of ice on it directly in front of Jack.

Jack glanced at the glass, then back at Elizabeth with his brow pinched. Suddenly recalling, his eyes went wide as he looked back at the glass once more.

"Beth."

"Jack." Elizabeth walked around the desk and turned the chair to face her.

"Beth, I can't. My shoulder."

Elizabeth knelt down and looked up at Jack through her long eyelashes. "You can't. But I can."

Jack swallowed hard as Elizabeth reached for his belt. His heart began to pound in his chest and he felt himself becoming aroused already. It didn't take much for him when it came to his wife. He was always ready for her.

She carefully undid his buckle and belt and unzipped his pants. Grabbing the sides, she pulled hard as Jack lifted his hips to assist her with removing the confining denim. She pushed them to his ankles and left them there. She slid her thumbs between the cotton of his boxer briefs and the warm skin of his hips and began pulling them down, Jack again, lifted to help her.

His eyes were locked on her as she removed his pants; she was always surprising him with the things she would try and do. The fire in his abdomen exploded into a heated inferno as he watched her reach for the glass of ice and remove a cube. She placed it between her lips, smiled up at Jack, then lowered to his very erect manhood.

Jack gasped and tipped his head back when he felt the cold cube graze across the tip. He was gripping the arm of the chair with his good hand, and the hand in the sling was clenched in a fist. The cold from the ice cube, mixed with the heat of her breath and lips were more than he could bear.

Suddenly, the chill was gone and had been replaced with warmth. She had taken him fully into her mouth and Jack's head snapped forward as he watched her. His hand was still gripping the chair as she moved up and down his shaft. Jack tried to think of other things to keep things from ending too quickly, but he couldn't stop watching her and the feeling it was driving through his body was too much and Jack released, along with a loud, throaty moan.

Elizabeth sat back onto her legs, her hands resting on Jack's knees, as she looked up at him.

"God, Beth," was all that Jack was capable of saying at the moment. His clinched hands finally relaxed as his heartbeat attempted to return to normal. "Where did that come from?"

She picked up the glass and stood. Leaning down, she kissed his cheek, looked into his eyes and said, "a glass of ice."

Straightening, she turned and left the office, returning to the house, a smile on her face.

Jack was left in his chair, his jaw dropped, his mind reeling, his pants around his ankles. He stood and pulled his jeans up, and while holding them, he walked to the window just in time to catch Elizabeth walking across the porch. She turned and looked at him, smiled, held up the glass of ice cubes, and disappeared into the house.

Jack turned around and looked across his office, shaking his head, wondering, "what just happened?"

He returned to his desk to start looking through stallion sale ads once more but was unable to concentrate. After a while of attempting to work, he stood and tried to zip and buckle his pants with one hand, but was unsuccessful. Giving up, he left the room and headed for the house, his jeans hanging low on his hips.

Inside, Elizabeth was brushing her hair when Jack entered the bathroom. She looked at him, grinning at the dumbfounded expression on his face.

"Something wrong?" she asked.

"What the hell?"

"What?"

"You know what." He approached her and wrapped his arm around her waist and kissed her neck. "What was that all about?"

"I felt like...fooling around," she teased. "And you can't...so...I did."

"I guess so."

She laid her hand on his chest and could feel that his heart was still beating fast. "Did that get you this fired up?"

"Elizabeth, anything you do gets me fired up. And it's been a week since we've...you know. And then you walk in...that look on your face...and do that," Jack said, unable to complete a sentence.

"So...what you're saying is...you liked it?" The smile on her face told Jack that she knew very well that he liked it.

With his left arm still in the sling, Jack turned her to face him and pushed her back until her butt was pressed against the sink. Tightening his right arm around her waist, he covered her mouth with his and kissed her hard. With one hand, he grabbed her shorts and pulled them down, then returned his arm around her waist and lifted her onto the countertop.

"What about your shoulder?" Elizabeth asked, pushing him back slightly.

"It's fine," he replied, returning her mouth to hers.

He kissed her as he firmly grabbed her breast, rubbing her hardened nipple through the fabric of her black cotton tank top. Elizabeth reached for his jeans, and finding them still unzipped, she pushed them down, grabbed his hips, and pulled him into her.

A gasp escaped her lips as she felt him enter. Jack's hand was now on her cheek and moving into her hair, pulling her closer to him so he could deepen his kiss. His hips were rocking in a slow motion as his tongue grazed hers, brushing along the edge of her teeth. Jack moved his hand back to her breast, pulling her shirt down, releasing it into his hand. He massaged it, rolling the nipple between his fingers.

Moving his hand under her thigh, he cupped it, lifting her leg slightly. He pushed deeper into her now as he pulled her to him, his fingers sinking into her soft flesh.

Elizabeth's arms were across the top of Jack's shoulders, trying to pay attention to his injured one. She slid her fingers into his hair, gripping it as she felt as if her insides would erupt as the fire was building and growing. His slow, meticulous movements were like striking a metal object against flint. Sparks were flying and a small ember glowed. Jack fanned the flames into a roaring fire, keeping a steady pace, until both of them were completely engulfed.

Jack's body relaxed into hers as she held him, her arm curling around his neck. Jack supported himself with one hand on the countertop. Pressing his lips to her neck, he kissed her gently, leaving a moist trail across her jaw and cheek.

"Ice cubes are quickly becoming one of my most favorite things," Jack said, grinning as he pressed his forehead to hers.

Elizabeth giggled and tightened her arms around his neck. "We're going to need a larger freezer," she teased.

Jack pulled her off the countertop and eased her to the floor, holding her body tight against his. "I don't want to let you go," he said, kissing her neck again.

"Well, Cowboy, you're going to have to eventually."

"Why?" he asked, kissing the top of her shoulder.

"Because Sam will be bringing the kids back after supper.

"We have lots of time before then."

"You need to take it easy, Jack. Remember...your shoulder?"

"Yes, dear," he said, taking a step back. "But for the record, you started it." Jack pulled his pants up and walked into the bedroom.

Gathering her shorts and panties, she followed her husband. "How are you feeling?"

"My shoulder is fine. My ego is ruined."

Elizabeth chuckled, "Why is that?"

"Because I can't fasten my own pants," he answered, turning around, still holding up his jeans.

"Jack, why don't you just wear your sweatpants?"

"I don't know. I'm used to being in my jeans and wanted a little normal. But I'm rethinking that idea." Jack pushed his jeans down, only to get them caught on his boots which he tried kicking off but they got caught up in his jeans.

Elizabeth was laughing now and gently pushed him back to the bed, forcing him to sit down. She pulled each boot off, then removed his jeans. Pulling him to his feet, she pulled his briefs the rest of the way up and straightened the waistband.

Elizabeth's cheek was against his chest as she slipped her fingers around the top of his boxer briefs. Jack leaned down, his mouth by her ear, "You're moving them in the wrong direction."

His warm breath sent chills down her spine as she looked up at him. "Jack, seriously. Again? Already?"

"Beth, you're standing in front of me wearing only a tank top. How am I supposed to react?"

Elizabeth looked down, having forgotten that she'd tossed her shorts on the floor to help Jack with his pants. "Oh, well, I'll have to fix that." She bent down to pick up her shorts, but Jack grabbed her with his good arm, spun her around, and backed her against the bed. "You're going to hurt your shoulder."

Jack moaned and turned to sit on the edge of the mattress. "Fine," he said in an exaggerated, breathy voice.

Once she was dressed, Elizabeth went to the closet and retrieved Jack's favorite blue plaid lounge pants and helped him into them. Once on, she stepped back and eyed her husband head to toe.

"What are you looking at?" Jack asked, sitting back on the edge of the bed.

"Is there anything that you don't look good in?" He grinned his crooked smile as Elizabeth moved toward him. "You make it very difficult to keep my hands off of you," she said, pushing in between his legs and pressing her palms against his chest, feeling his firm pecs. "Hay and horses, huh?"

"Well, that and mucking stalls, wrestling calves, mending fences, and meeting your needs as frequently as possible," Jack grinned.

"And I thank you for that," she teased. She stepped back and pulled Jack to his feet. "Did you do your home therapy today?"

"Yes, ma'am."

"What time is your appointment?"

"Three."

"Do you need me to drive you?" she slid her hand down his arm and into his palm as they walked toward the stairs.

"No, I'll be fine today. It hasn't been hurting nearly as much the past couple of days. Hopefully I'll finally be able to get out of this stupid sling. It was only supposed to be for a couple days but because of the amount of pain, Doc made me keep it on."

"Maybe today is the day."

Jack returned to his work in the office while Elizabeth changed the laundry in the washer and dryer. They went about their normal activities that afternoon until it was time for Jack to leave for his appointment. When he didn't come back into the house to tell her goodbye, Elizabeth went to the office to look for him.

She walked in to find his nose buried in papers, sifting through different stallion listings that he'd printed out.

"Jack, your appointment."

He lifted his eyes and looked at the clock that was hanging on the wall. "Oh, shoot. I lost track of time." He pushed the papers into a single pile and pushed his chair back.

"Have you picked one yet?" she asked, leaning onto her hands to look at the photo at the top of the stack.

Jack walked around the desk and stopped behind Elizabeth, wrapping his arm around her waist and kissing her neck. "I have narrowed down to a few. Hey," he said, moving beside her and reaching for the smaller stack of papers. "Why don't you look through these while I'm gone, and when I get back, you can tell me which one you want."

"What? I don't know anything about picking out a stallion."

"Look at what a great producer your mare is."

"I just picked her out because I thought she was pretty."

Jack held the papers out to his wife. "Then pick out one of these guys because you think he's pretty," Jack grinned. "I've already narrowed it down to these five. Any of these guys will be great. So...you pick which one we buy."

Elizabeth reluctantly took the stack of photos. "I don't know, Jack."

"I know...and you'll do great. I need to hurry. I'll be back in no time, so have one picked out before I return." Jack winked and hurried out of the office.

Elizabeth was left standing in the room, staring at the papers in her hand. She spun around on one foot and returned to the house. Sitting at the island, she spread the listings out across the granite so she could compare each one. Resting her elbows on the countertop and her chin in her hands, her eyes scanned each photo, one after the other.

At first, she only looked at the pictures. Each listing included one large photo, with four smaller ones below it. The horse's pedigree was below the images, but Elizabeth knew nothing about the bloodlines, so she didn't bother reading them.

She moved one listing off to the side, as she didn't care for the color of that horse. Looking at the four remaining, she moved one more off to the side; it was her least favorite of the four. Now with it down to three, she picked one up and began reading some information that was included.

Lil Joe Cash is a four-time world champion reining liver chestnut stallion. He's athletic, gentle, easy to ride, safe around children. He is sire to over twenty qualifying or champion horses. She saw a website for a video and typed it into her phone. She clicked play on the video and watched it. A man was riding the horse in a large arena, doing a reining pattern, Elizabeth assumed. She thought he was a very nice-looking horse and kept that page in her "good" pile. Not quite understanding everything else she'd read; she did understand the word champion and knew that Jack would only buy the best.

Moving to the next page, she began reading. Bamacat is a 2009 sorrel stallion and is a leading NCHA Sire and an NCHA World Champion Sire. He comes from a long line of prestigious NCHA performers and has proven to pass that cow sense and ability to his offspring. She noticed a website address to video listed on the sale ad as well, so she looked it up on her phone. "Wow," she commented, after watching it for a minute. She looked over his photo one more time, then added it to her "good" pile.

Picking up the next one, Elizabeth froze briefly on the horse's name, then began reading the description. Watch Jack Winit is a 2012 AQHA/ABHA Buckskin stallion with lineage to Two Eyed Jack. Elizabeth had already been leaning toward him because she thought he was the prettiest of the horses, but this name solidified it for her. "This is him," she said out loud. "This is Jack's horse." She moved all the other pages to the side and left "Jack's" page laying by itself in the middle of the island. She sat and stared at it for a few more minutes, reading the description, going over his photos, and nodded her head once more. "Yes, this is the one."

…..

Jack pulled into the driveway and followed the graveled path between the rows of apple trees, past his barn, and around the break of trees that hid the house from the highway. Knowing he'd be in his truck later that day, he parked in front of the house and walked inside.

"You're free!" Elizabeth shouted when she saw her husband walk in without his sling.

"I'm free," he agreed, grinning his dimpled grin and raising both arms. "So, who did you choose?" he asked, wrapping his arms around her and kissing her hello.

"I chose Jack."

"Well, I hope so, you did marry me," he teased. "But I meant a stallion. Did you pick out a stallion?"

"I did...Jack."

"Jack?" He looked at his wife with a confused expression. "Oh, Watch Jack Winit?"

"Yes...Jack," she repeated, smiling.

"Very good. He was actually my favorite; I'll go call the Bryants right now. But he is going to need a different barn name," he said as he removed his phone from his pocket.

"Really? Just like that and you're going to buy him? No more comparing or researching?"

"Just like that?" Jack took her hand and led her to the island where he saw the listings lying. He grabbed the buckskin's paper and held it up. "I have been searching all week. I started with over twenty prospects and over five days' time, I finally narrowed it down to these five. I have researched every bloodline, every pedigree, even checked out all the foals they have sired." Jack laid the paper on the island, taking both of Elizabeth's hands in his. "So, by letting you pick your favorite out of these, helped me tremendously because I couldn't decide. Any of them would have been great. But I must say, if this guy's name has anything to do with how awesome he is..." Jack winked at Elizabeth.

"You're terrible," she said, pushing her hip into him.

"You weren't thinking that earlier," he said, moving his lips to her neck.

Elizabeth tipped her head back, letting a long, quiet moan slip between her lips.

"That sound you make really gets my motor revving, Baby," he whispered into her ear, then pressed his lips to the sensitive skin just below it.

"Then zoom me right up into that bed," she replied, barely able to speak.

Jack bent and wrapped his good arm around her legs, picking her up and draping her over his shoulder. He carried her up to the bedroom and carefully lowered her to the floor. "When will Sam be back with the kids?"

"Not until after supper," she said, smiling, moving her hands to his shirt.

…..

July 20th, 2014 – Crossroads Cowboy Church

Jack remained with his family in the seats as Elizabeth joined the praise band. She took her normal position at the piano, looking at her husband and smiling. Peyton was on his lap, squeezing his nose as he quietly made faces for her. Her giggling got too loud and he had to stop and gave Elizabeth a look of, "oops, sorry."

She hid her laughter as she began to play and sing with the rest of the singers.

When the service was over, the family joined outside once all the children were gathered, and visited for a few minutes as they waited for Frank to finish up inside.

"I hear you picked out a stallion," Tom said.

"Yes. Have you heard of Watch Jack Winit?" Jack asked.

"Are we talking about a horse?" Rosemary asked, giving Jack a look.

"Yes, Rosie. A buckskin quarter horse stallion for our mares. And yours and Lee's mares."

"Well, with that name, he must be a winner," she teased.

"That's an awesome horse," Lee stated, pulling a photo of the stallion up on his phone to show his wife.

"Wow, he's amazing. And a Two Eyed Jack horse?" she asked.

"Yep," Jack replied. Colton was tugging on Jack's shirt, asking to be picked up. "I can't yet, Colt. Remember?"

"Oh yeah. Your shoulder," he said in a low, sad voice.

"Come here, bucko," Lee said, holding out his arms.

Colton ran to him and jumped as Lee caught the boy. "Hi, Uncle Lee."

"Hello, Colt. How are you today?"

"I'm good," he answered, loudly. "You need to shave," the little boy giggled, scratching his fingers through Lee's scruff.

"Yes, I sure do," Lee replied, lifting his free hand to his newly grown beard.

"I agree, Colton," Rosie said, moving Autumn from one hip to the other.

Once Frank joined the group, everyone dispersed to their vehicles to drive to Frank and Charlotte's for lunch.

The children ran around the backyard, Bandit close on their heels. Frank, Tom, Lee and Jack each pulled out a chair and watched them play.

"How's your shoulder now?" Frank asked.

"Much better. Still a twinge of pain now and then if I do too much. But it's improving."

"Wonderful," Frank replied.

"It's crazy how well things can heal when you do what the doctor tells you, huh?" Lee asked, with a hint of sarcasm and teasing.

"Ha, ha," Jack responded.

The women walked out the back door, each carrying items for the meal: including plates, silverware, glasses, a roast, potatoes and carrots, salad, and more. The men all stood, taking some of the items from their full arms, and helped set the patio table. Plastic plates were filled for each of the kids, allowing them to find spots on the steps and in the grass to enjoy their food.

The conversation returned to Jack and Elizabeth's stallion and when it would arrive.

"Lee and I will be picking him up on Thursday."

"I can't wait to see him," Charlotte added. "I have always thought you needed your own."

"They can be a lot of work, Ma. But this guy seems pretty well mannered."

"Where will you keep him?" Frank asked.

I have several empty stalls on the north west rows of the barn. He'll be kept in one of them. They also open up to that pen that comes off that corner of the barn so I'll be letting him out there on good days."

"That sounds perfect," Tom added. "Do you need any help picking him up?"

"If you want to ride along, that would be great. Just in case Lee needs some help. I'm still out of commission for a bit."

"Just let me know when you'll be leaving and I'll be there. "Sam is off that day, so she'll be home with the kids."

"Perfect," Jack stated.

Conversations flowed from Jack's therapy, to Sam's work, to Rosemary's pregnancy as they enjoyed their meal. The weather had held out that day and currently it was perfect outside.

"What time is that storm supposed to roll in?" Sam asked.

"Around four, I think," Tom answered.

"We'll need to get the mares and foals off the north pasture so they don't tear it up," Jack stated to Lee.

"No problem," Lee answered. "We'll stop by on our way home."

The children quickly finished their food so they could resume their playing. Savannah and Luke were chasing the smaller ones around the yard, pretending to tickle them if they caught them, their fingers wiggling in the air. High pitched squeals filled the air each time Savannah or Luke would get close to one of them.

"They all get along so perfectly," Charlotte said as she watched her grandchildren. "I never hear them argue about anything."

"Well, Ma. You haven't had the pleasure of being at our house when Peyton and Colton decide they both want the same toy at the same time. Not so perfect then."

"Noel and Autumn when they don't want to share...whoa. Same thing. World war three breaks out," Lee laughed.

"Hey, how's the Bible studies going?" Frank asked, taking a bite of potatoes.

"They were going well," Jack answered. "I missed last week though. Wasn't feeling up to it."

"Last week went just fine," Tom added. "We covered Jack's plan that he already had laid out for the month."

"How many guys have been showing up?" Frank asked.

"The first week we had six. This past week we had eleven," Lee answered.

"That's wonderful, boys," Frank said. "It's growing fast."

"Yes, we were surprised with how much it's grown in just a few weeks," Tom added.

"I can't wait to get back," Jack stated. I'll be there this week.

"You were missed. The guys were asking about you."

Blake ran up the steps, almost tripping over the top one. "Mommy! Mommy!"

"What, Blake?" she asked, lifting him onto her lap.

"Austin asked if I could spend the night with him. Can I? I've never had a sleepover before."

"As long as Austin's parents don't care, then that will be fine with me."

Austin was with them now, bouncing up and down in front of Sam. "Can he, Mom?"

"Of course, Aust, that will be fine."

"Yay!" the boys shouted, running back into the yard.

"Those two are becoming quite the pair," Charlotte laughed.

"Yes, they are becoming inseparable," Sam added.

When everyone was finished eating, the men cleared the table and carried everything into the kitchen while the women visited. After the leftovers were put away and dishes done, the men rejoined their wives outside.

"What names do you have picked out?" Sam asked Rosemary.

"Well, we're still working on that. We do know, if it's a girl, her middle name will be Anne. And if it's a boy, it will be Leland."

"Those are both great," Charlotte said. "Still waiting to find out?"

"Yes. Neither of us want to know. I figure, either way, it'll be a surprise. And it makes the birth just that much more special."

"I agree with that," Charlotte replied.

"It will be a beautiful surprise," Elizabeth added, smiling at her best friend.

"Will you be there?" Rosemary asked, looking at Elizabeth.

"Of course. I wouldn't miss it for the world. I was there for the first two, wasn't I?"

"I know, but you've really got your hands full now."

"I'll be there," Elizabeth assured her.

The conversation fell into a lull as the adults watched the children continue to play. Eleven-month-old Autumn pulled herself up against a large tree trunk, and with her hand resting against it for balance, she stood and watched the rest of the kids running around with Bandit. The knees of her tiny jeans were stained green from crawling across the yard, as were the toes of her little pink boots.

Rosemary was watching her daughter as she rested her hand on her belly, feeling the life inside her rolling around as if he or she was stretching. Autumn removed her hand from the tree and took a step forward and Rosie sat up straight in her chair.

"Lee," she said, quietly, but still loud enough for all of the adults to hear. "Lee!"

"What?" he asked, before turning and seeing his wife's eyes, wide as saucers. "What is it? Are you in labor?" he asked, jumping to his feet.

"No, silly. Look at your daughter."

Everyone turned their attention to Autumn who by now had taken two more steps into the yard.

"She's walking," Lee shouted, causing the little girl to fall back onto her bottom. He jogged across the yard and picked her up, tossing her into the air, then hugged her as he spun her around the yard.

"He is such a good dad," Charlotte commented as she watched the man dancing with his youngest.

"Yes, he is," Rosie agreed, grinning ear to ear. "He loves his little girls."

Lee lowered Autumn back to the grass, and held onto her hands, walking with her toward the deck. After a few feet, he let go and the toddler wobbled slightly, then took two more steps unassisted. Everyone clapped and the little girl giggled, then fell onto her bottom once more. After helping her up, Lee held her hands as they made their way to his chair.

"She's getting so big," Sam stated, reaching down for the young toddler. Autumn lifted her arms and ran to her aunt, letting the woman lift her onto her lap. "Such a big girl," she said to the smiling toddler.

"Big!" Autumn shouted, holding her arms straight into the air.

Everyone chuckled and Elizabeth moved deeper into Jack's embrace as he tightened his arm around her. "Noel is a carbon copy of you, Rosie. But Autumn is sure beginning to look like Lee," Elizabeth commented.

"Yes, she really has been changing as she's grown," Rosemary replied.

"Blake seems to be adjusting well to his new life," Frank added.

Jack looked across the yard at his son, who was chasing the screaming twins around with an earthworm between his fingers. "Yes, he's doing great," Jack smiled.

"He has his days now and again...missing Becky. It just hits him out of nowhere, then he's down most of the day," Elizabeth said. "But they seem to already be getting less frequent."

"Do you think that's because of his young age?" Charlotte asked.

"Absolutely," Elizabeth answered. "Children are resilient, and I believe the younger they are, the better they cope with tragedy. I suppose it's because they don't remember as much as if it were a teenager."

"That does make total sense," Rosie added.

"Hey, boys, did you bring your guitars?" Frank asked. "I would love to hear you guys play again."

"I did," Tom answered, then looked at Jack.

"I did, too. But I'm not sure how long I'll be able to play it," Jack replied.

"I'll go grab them," Tom said, then jumped from his seat and disappeared around the house. He returned a couple of minutes later with two guitar cases in his hand, handing one to Jack.

After a quick tuning, Tom and Jack sat facing each other, and began cycling through a series of open chords for a warm up.

"How's your shoulder?" Tom asked.

"It's good," Jack answered, rolling his shoulder a bit to test the position.

The brothers began playing a song, one they did often when they pulled their guitars out. It was one their father used to play for them, and one of the first ones he taught them to play. Each time they played it, Jack and Tom could both close their eyes and still see their father sitting in front of them, repositioning their fingers on the neck of the guitar.

…..

April 2nd, 1993 – Thornton Ranch

"Your index finger goes on this fret," Thomas said, sliding Jack's finger to the correct placing. "Press hard. There you go," he commented, smiling at his son.

"How do you do the D cord again, Dad?" Eleven-year-old Tom asked, trying his hardest to get his little fingers to cooperate.

Thomas adjusted his youngest son's fingers slightly, then pressed them down. "It's G, D, then A7. So, from D to A7, you just lift your middle finger."

"Oh, okay," Tom replied, finally understanding it.

After another hour of practicing and making minor adjustments, Thomas sat back into his chair and watched the boys, side-by-side on the couch, playing one of his favorite songs by the Judds, "Grandpa, Tell Me 'Bout the Good Ole Days."

With a few mistakes throughout, the boys made it through their first song as a duet. When they finished, they looked at each other, grinning ear to ear.

"That was beautiful, boys," Charlotte stated from the doorway, where she'd been standing for the entire song.

Thomas looked back over his shoulder to find his wife walking toward him. He held out his hand for her and she took it, as he guided her around the chair. He placed his hands on her hips and pulled her down onto his lap. Sitting across the chair sideways, Charlotte draped her arm behind Thomas' neck, as he curved an arm behind her, and laid his other across her legs.

"Can you play that again?" Charlotte asked.

"Sure, Ma," thirteen-year-old Jack replied. "Ready, Tom?"

"Ready, Brother."

…..

July 20th, 2014 – Charlotte & Frank's Ranch

When Charlotte heard the boys begin to play, she laid her hand on her chest and leaned back into her chair. "Oh, my heart," she stated, smiling at the boys.

Tom began singing the first two lines, then Jack joined in, their voices harmonizing perfectly.

Grandpa, tell me 'bout the good old days
Sometimes it feels like this world's gone crazy
Grandpa, take me back to yesterday
When the line between right and wrong
Didn't seem so hazy

Did lovers really fall in love to stay
And stand beside each other, come what may?
Was a promise really something people kept
Not just something they would say
Did families really bow their heads to pray?
Did daddies really never go away?
Oh, grandpa, tell me 'bout the good old days

The children had all gathered around their parents now, listening to the men play and sing. They fell quiet as they sat on the laps of the adults, mesmerized by the notes. Most of the adults had joined in and were singing with the men now, filling the air with harmonizing melodies. Even the birds seemed to have joined in on the song.

Grandpa, everything is changing fast
We call it progress, but I just don't know
And grandpa, let's wander back into the past
And paint me the picture of long ago

Did lovers really fall in love to stay
And stand beside each other, come what may?
Was a promise really something people kept
Not just something they would say and then forget
Families really bow their heads to pray
Did daddies really never go away?
Oh, grandpa, tell me 'bout the good old days

Jack and Tom finished out the song on their guitars, then resting their arms on top of the wooden bodies, they smiled at one another, nodding, knowing what the other was thinking about.

…..

July 22nd, 2014 – Hope Meadows Ranch

Elizabeth woke to the jingling sound of Jack's belt buckle. She opened her eyes but the room was still filled with darkness. She could see a shadow gliding across the lighted gap below the bathroom door. Rolling over to face the clock, she read 4:52 am.

She sat up, rubbing the sleep from her eyes, and swung her legs off the edge of the bed, just as Jack opened the bathroom door. Due to the darkness, Jack didn't realize that Elizabeth was up and he quietly moved through the bedroom.

"Jack? Where are you going?"

Jumping, Jack dropped his phone as he spun around. "Geez, Beth. You gave me a heart attack." He picked up his phone and crossed the room to the bed where she was still sitting.

"Where are you going at this hour?" she asked again.

"I need to go out and check on a mare. She's past due and I should have moved her into the barn, but I didn't. Now I can't sleep, worrying about her." Jack sat down on the mattress, next to his wife. "Sorry, I didn't mean to wake you," he said, tucking her hair behind her ear.

"Can't Lee check on her? You shouldn't be doing anything that could reinjure your shoulder. What if something is wrong?"

"He could, but he's asleep. And I just have a bad feeling in my gut that I need to get out there now."

"But, Jack, your shoulder."

"I'll be okay, Baby. If there is anything wrong, I'll call Lee and wake him up."

Elizabeth let out a long breath, staring at the features of her husband's face, barely visible in the dark room. "Promise me that you'll call Lee."

"I promise," Jack replied, covering her lips with his. "I sure wish I didn't have this bad feeling about that mare, or I would stay here and take care of you."

"Oh, really?" Elizabeth giggled. "And how would you do that?"

Jack stood and bent down, kissing her lips, cheek, and neck. "There's a microscopic hint of what I would do. I'll show you the rest when I get back." Jack hand was in hers, and as he walked away, he stretched his arm out, keeping her hand in his for as long as he could.

Elizabeth lay back down in the bed, gathering the pillow under her head. She closed her eyes, and breathed in deeply. The smell of Jack's cologne wafted into her nose, and she hung on the scent as long as she could.

Rolling onto her back, she stared up at the dark ceiling. Grabbing the covers, she threw them off with a grunt and got out of bed, unable to go back to sleep.

…..

Jack started the UTV and backed it out of the shed, Wyatt in the seat beside him. Flipping the switch for the headlights, he turned it toward the pasture where the herd of mares was, and began driving down the grassy path that would lead his way. A large branch had fallen across it about halfway through, and Jack got up to move it out of the way. Using only his good arm, he dragged it into the tall grass, and returned to the vehicle.

Putting the UTV back in gear, he proceeded down the path toward the back pasture, coming across yet another fallen branch. "Man, I miss my horse," he exclaimed, getting off the seat once more.

Finally reaching the correct gate, he opened it, drove through, then closed it. He grabbed the spot light from the storage box and began scanning the large open area. Curious foals approached him as he drove through the herd at a snail's pace. Occasionally, he'd reach out and pet one of them on the forehead.

Scanning again, he finally spotted the mare he was looking for. She was lying flat on her side, and Jack could see her side heaving each time she'd try to push. Jumping from the UTV, his flashlight in hand, he ran to the mare.

"Hey, old girl. What seems to be the issue?" He knelt at the horse's side and laid a hand on her swollen belly.

The mare groaned and lifted her head, looking at Jack as if asking for help. He moved to the back of the mare and lifted her tail. Pulling the long, full arm glove from his pocket, he pushed his right hand into it, pulling the plastic up to his armpit. Inserting his hand into the mare, he shoved his arm in until he felt the foal.

"Shit, it's breach," he exclaimed, removing his arm. After pulling the glove off, Jack took out his phone and called the vet's personal number.

"I'm on my way, Jack," Dr. Lumley said just before hanging up.

Jack pulled up Lee's number next, and pressed call.

"Jacko, this better be good," Lee answered, only half awake.

"I have a mare in labor with a breech foal. The vet is on his way, but I'm going to need your help."

"I'm on my way, Brother," Lee replied, jumping out of bed.

"I'm in the back pasture."

"Got it."

Jack returned his phone to his pocket, then pulled it back out. He opened his messaging app and texted Elizabeth.

The foal is breech. Vet and Lee on their way.

Thinking she was sleeping; Jack began to put the phone back into his pocket when he heard the text notification sound.

Is she okay? Can I do anything to help?

She seems fine so far. You're busy with the kids. We have this under control. Love you.

I love you. Please be careful.

OK

Jack quickly shoved the phone in his pocket and returned his attention to the mare. Her breathing had quickly become more labored, as she repeatedly tried to push.

"Stop pushing, sweetie. Just wait," Jack said calmly, rubbing the horse's belly with his hand.

The mare tried to stand and Jack moved to her head, pulling her up. Once she was on her feet, Jack retrieved a halter and rope from the UTV and slid it onto the horse's head. He tossed the rope across the back of the horse's neck to keep it out of the way, and returned to the back of the horse. Pulling the glove on, he checked her once more. The foal still had not turned, but the mare continued to push.

She was clearly in distress, grunting and moving her feet around as Jack pulled his arm out. Just as he was stepping away, the mare kicked, narrowly missing his leg.

"Hey, Sally. Enough of that, young lady," Jack said sternly. "I'm only trying to help you."

Wyatt was standing near Jack now, in total protection mode, prepared to get between him and the horse if necessary.

Two sets of headlights could be seen coming down the path toward the gate. Lee had obviously waited for the vet so he could guide him out to the pasture. Lee was out of the truck and jumping the fence, running toward Jack, while the vet retrieved his case from the back of his truck.

"Watch her backend," Jack stated as Lee approached. "She just tried kicking me."

"Whoa, good thing she missed or Elizabeth would have killed you herself."

"You've got that right," Jack said, grinning.

"How's the patient?" Dr. Lumley asked, joining the men.

"Cranky and in pain."

"Let's see what we can do about that," the vet said, setting his case on the ground.

…..

Elizabeth was standing in her kitchen, leaning against the countertop, a cup of coffee between her hands, when her phone rang. She quickly snatched it from the island and saw Jack's face smiling at her.

"Hello? Everything alright?" she answered.

"We lost the mare. But the foal is alright."

"Oh, Jack. I'm so sorry."

"Yeah. It happens. I can't let it bother me."

"Which mare?"

"Sally."

"The small chestnut?"

"Yes, that's the one."

"What happened?"

"She had been in labor too long and ended up rupturing her uterus before we could get the foal out."

"I'm sorry, Jack."

"Me, too. Hey, I need to get going. We're loading the foal and bringing her into the barn. She'll need bottle fed. I'll see you soon. I love you."

"Love you, too, Jack."

Elizabeth laid her phone down and allowed herself to take a much-needed breath, now knowing Jack was safe. She could hear the kids upstairs now, and headed to the stairs to help them get ready for the day.

…..

Lee carried the filly into the first stall in the barn and laid her down in the fresh bedding. Jack entered with towels and the pair began cleaning her off. The vet stepped into the pen with a new bag, one filled with the needed medicine and vaccinations this foal would need.

The three men worked on her, cleaned her up, and attempted to get her to take a bottle with no success.

"If she's not standing within two hours, or not eating by five, we'll need to intervene to try to save her," Dr. Lumley advised.

"Okay, Doc. We'll do what we can," Jack replied.

Once the doctor was gone, Jack and Lee continued working on the filly for another hour. Still having no success, they let her rest as they went to the house to get coffee.

Once inside, Jack poured them both a cup and the men sat at the island, their tired heads resting in their hands.

"What do you think?" Lee asked between sips.

"I just don't know. I'm hoping that after some rest, she'll be more willing to try."

"What's happening?" Elizabeth asked, entering the kitchen with her hands full of cleaners.

"The little thing won't stand or eat. We're letting her rest, then we'll go out and try again."

Elizabeth placed the bottles into the closet near the back door, then joined the guys at the island. "Do you think she'll make it?"

"Hard to tell, yet," Jack answered. He laid his hand on top of hers, brushing his thumb across her knuckles. He took a long drink of his coffee, then set the cup down. Turning his head back to his wife, he had an idea, "Maybe you can get her to eat."

"Me? Why would you think I could when you can't?"

"Because you're a mom," he grinned. "I don't know. I'm running out of ideas."

"I'll try," she replied.

"Really?"

"Of course. There's no danger in it is there?"

"What? No. Zero danger. She's too small and weak right now."

"Okay, then. I'll try it."

Charlotte was called to come watch the children while Jack, Elizabeth, and Lee returned to the barn. Stepping into the stall, Elizabeth squealed a little at the sight of the new baby.

"She's so cute," she exclaimed, kneeling next to the filly.

Jack and Lee looked at one another, shaking their heads and grinning. Lee leaned into Jack and whispered, "You do know...if she succeeds at this...you just gained another horse."

"Yep."

Elizabeth sat next to the foal, and pulled the filly's head onto her lap. She petted her cheek, over and over, talking to her in a soothing voice. "Do you have a bottle ready?" Elizabeth asked with her hand out.

"Yep," Lee said, jumping toward her, placing it into her palm.

"Here you go, Baby," Elizabeth said, as if she was talking to one of her own children. "You need to eat now." She brushed the nipple of the bottle along the foal's tongue, squeezing a few drops for her to get the taste.

Showing no interest, the filly's head laid heavy on Elizabeth's lap. "This isn't working," she stated, getting frustrated. Letting out an aggravated breath, she carefully moved out from under the foal and stood. "Now what?" Elizabeth was standing with her hands on her hips, staring down at the newborn.

"We need to get her on her feet," Lee stated.

"Let's try again," Jack responded.

Jack and Lee stood on either side of the foal as Lee got under her, pulling her to her feet. Jack placed her legs underneath her and helped stabilize her from his side. The little girl wobbled and began to fall, but the men kept her upright, building strength in her legs.

The filly's head was shaking back and forth, as if she couldn't control it. Elizabeth knelt in front of her and placed her hands on either side of the foal's face. She petted the young animal while the men continued to hold her up. Lee was bearing most of the weight, as Jack was only using his right arm.

Elizabeth picked up the bottle once more and unscrewed the lid. She dipped her finger into the milk, then held her hand in front of the foal's mouth. Smelling it, she began to get curious and sucked on Elizabeth's finger.

"She did it," Lee shouted, watching the scene unfold.

"Try the bottle again," Jack added, smiling proudly at his wife.

Elizabeth returned the cap to the bottle, squeezed out some milk and rubbed it around the nipple, coating the outside of it. She then held the foal's chin while brushing the rubber against its mouth. The foal stuck its tongue out slightly, getting another taste of the colostrum filled milk. Then suddenly, she latched onto the bottle and began eating.

Jack's gaze moved between the foal and his wife. Elizabeth was smiling ear to ear as she watched the filly suck down half the contents of the bottle. Once she pulled back and let the nipple go. The guys maneuvered the foal around the pen, until she began to walk on her own.

Three hours after the harsh delivery that left her mother dead, the little sorrel filly was walking on her own, and taking the bottle for the second time. Jack and Lee took the tractor out to take care of the mare and to get her buried, while Elizabeth sat in the barn with the newborn. She was fascinated by the foal, having never spent so much time with one, and sat in the corner of the stall, watching her stumbling around, finding her footing.

By the time Jack and Lee returned to the barn, Jack found Elizabeth lying in the stall, asleep, with her arm laying across the sleeping foal. He immediately pulled his phone from his pocket and took a picture, so he could show her when she woke.

"Sssss." Jack tried to quietly get Lee's attention. "Hey...sssss."

Lee looked up from what he was doing, and saw Jack waving him over. The two men quietly laughed at the site, and Lee took a photo as well, texting it to Rosie.

Jack was still watching Elizabeth when she finally woke up. He was standing at the half door of the stall, his arms resting on the wood, his gaze resting on Elizabeth. She sat up and brushed the sawdust bedding from her hair and clothes before gently petting the foal's neck.

"What have you named her?" Jack asked, grinning at his wife.

"How long have you been there?" she asked, her cheeks flushing.

Jack looked at his watch, then back at Elizabeth. "About an hour. Tired?"

"Yes, I've been up since you got up. You must be exhausted," she said, standing and brushing the bedding from her jeans.

"I could nap," Jack replied, still smiling. "So, what have you named her?"

"What makes you think I named her?"

"Because I know you. What did you name her?"

"Hope."

"Hmmm...Hope. I like it. It's about time the ranch had a mascot," Jack teased.

Elizabeth looked down at the foal, who was now awake, and knelt beside her. "Hello, Hope. It's very nice to meet you."