When Gem arrived at her parents' home in Lightning Flat there were two trucks there, one had a trailer attached with bleating sheep and nickering horses. The other was Ennis's old pickup truck Gem knew so well. Gem and Giry herded the animals into a round pen so they could stretch their legs before walking into the house.

Ennis stared in wonder as Gem walked into the house, at her side was a powerful, lithe wolf. Its coat was a cinnamon red sprinkled with gold, her fluffy tail wagged as she sniffed Ennis. Gem's long legs were clad in tight Lycra riding tights; she still wore the long, cream cashmere coat Jack had given her all those years ago.

Ennis's heart fluttered, even after 7 years the flame of passion was still there. Gem was beautiful; she was very fit, almost to the point of being skeletal. This worried Ennis as Gem would never be the type to starve herself. Her face was impassive, showing no emotion but Ennis knew better. Gem was in extreme pain, emotional and mental; he wanted to move and comfort her but was afraid to.

Lureen silently handed them both sealed envelopes and passed the canister of ashes to Gem, she didn't do anything but left without a word. Gem stood as close to the blazing fire as possible to read her letter.

Dear Gem,

I was hoping you'd never have to read this, I'd hoped I could tell you myself. But that's another story, Gem; all I ever wanted for you was to be happy. We both know nothing would make you happier than being with Ennis and raising a whole yard full of kids. The two of you should talk, work things out together. As your older brother looking out for your best interest I want you to have those operations, do it for yourself and for me. Never give up, Ennis loves you, I know he does, just try. I also want you to have my sheep and horses, there's some good stock there that will strengthen your herds and flocks. Just know I love you and Ennis with all my heart and only want you to be happy.

With all the love I possess, Jack

After she finished reading Gem sank onto the rug and stared into the flames as if they would give her answers. She could almost hear Jack's laughter, see his dancing blue eyes. Giry padded over to her and licked her face, and then she trotted back over to curl up by Ennis. Gem stole a glance at Ennis, his green eyes bored into hers. A few seconds of tension passed before they rushed into each other's arms. Gem clutched Ennis tightly to her, whispering I'm sorry over and over and over again. Ennis held fast, making sure he never lost Gem again. He lay gentle kisses on the top of her head and stroked her spine.

After a moment Ennis held Gem at arms length, "What do you say Rodeo? Do you want to try this?" he whispered huskily. Gem looked into his tear filled eyes with her own, "I would like that very much." Then Gem stood on tiptoe and kissed Ennis gently on the mouth.

That evening the pair went up to Broke Back, they scattered Jack's ashes. That night they stayed up on the mountain, drinking hard liquor and telling Jack stories.

When they left Lightning Flat Ennis and Gem drove west to Arizona, where Gem's ranch was grounded. Together they moved the ranch north to Colorado; they picked a beautiful spot next to a mountain waterfall and spring. As promised Gem had her operations, she would be laid up for 5 weeks while her ears and reproductive system healed.

Gem and Ennis had to limit themselves to fiery kisses and passionate embraces. Ennis was with Gem when she dropped a plate in surprise, Ennis had chirruped a greeting and Gem had heard it. For a whole hour Gem and Ennis had a conversation, one where Gem looked into Ennis's eyes instead of his mouth.

After the 5 weeks were up Gem locked her lips on Ennis's with a passion she didn't even know she possessed. When she straddled him and began to remove his clothes with vigor Ennis chuckled, "You made me wait 7 fucking years Twist; you'll have to wait at least 7 minutes."