This following is a work of fiction. Any resemblance to persons living or dead is purely a coincidence. No resemblance (s) of any actual person or character or act is intended. While there is no sexual contact in this story, please be aware of the rules in your community for reading this or other stories on Nifty. If reading such is illegal where you reside of you are not of legal age, please go no further.
This work of fiction is the property of the author, Sonny Malone and should not be reposted or reproduced without his permission. Email always welcome and should be addressed to rhyolite221@outlook.com
Copyright (c) 2017
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Uncle Rick's Rhyolite Ranch
Chapter 14
The deep summer-green leaves of the maple, oak, and elm trees transformed into variegated browns, brilliant yellows, and bright oranges during the month of October. The turning of the leaves was a notice from Mother Nature for farmers to plant their winter crops. Uncle Rick, Henry, Travis, and Raul worked together to sow winter rye, buckwheat, and sorghum in the fields. Daniel and Jason planted onions, garlic, broad beans, spinach, carrots, and other plants in the greenhouse.
Cody, Erik, and Tony continued their diligent studying and with Uncle Rick's tutoring, they all received straight "A"s on their first report cards. Tony always had pretty good grades in school but having his own personal tutor made a big difference. When he showed Uncle Rick his first report card he made sure to give him a big hug of appreciation for his time and work to help him be a better student.
Brandon, Mario and Maria stayed busy looking for potential locations, perfecting recipes, which everyone loved eating afterwards, and developing a complete and appetizing menu for their future restaurant.
On the evening of October 29th an early winter storm hit the region hard. For everyone it was a noisy and restless night. Cody, Erik and Tony cuddled extra close as high winds with gusts up to 70-miles per hour howled. Branches and leaves of some of the more vulnerable trees were torn away from their more formidable trunks. Temperatures dropped from the mid eighties to the mid thirties. The storm caused only minor damage to the shingle roof of an old equipment shed that was no longer being used. The other buildings on both the Sanchez and Rhyolite Ranches were designed to withstand much stronger winds. Travis and Raul were thankful for the new shutters protecting the windows on their home on the ridgeline from the 100-mile per hour gusts reached at the higher elevation.
Brandon was awake before sunrise and discovered the power had failed sometime in the night. He slipped on a warm coat and went outside to the auxiliary backup generator located in an enclosed cabinet on the side of the house. Brandon managed to get to the generator room even though the chilly wind was still blowing and strong gusts fought against him. He turned the generator starter key and the engine immediately roard to life. Brandon flipped a breaker switch, feeding electricity to the house. When he came back in the house the entire ranch family, dressed in pajamas and robes, sleepily greeted him. No one had slept well during the raucous storm.
Uncle Rick looked at the thermometer mounted on the kitchen wall. It read 40-degrees. "Brrr! No wonder it feels cold in here. Let's get a fire going."
Cody, Erik and Daniel put on coats and gloves, and went to the lumber pile to bring back a load of firewood to burn. Uncle Rick had a fire started with the wood that was in the fireplace bin. Within minutes a big fire was burning in the fireplace, warming the house. Brandon turned on the coffee pot while Mario turned on a stove burner to heat up water in a teakettle. In a few minutes those who drank coffee filled their cups. The younger boys drank hot chocolate to warm their insides.
Brandon and Mario agreed a nice warm breakfast would help wake everyone. Mario offered to make an Italian sausage and spinach frittata. Brandon added his special blueberry pancakes.
As the chefs prepared breakfast, Cody looked out the front window to see Vicente and Maria Sanchez, along with Alejandro and Ana, driving up the driveway to the house. "We have company. The Sanchez family is here."
Uncle Rick was curiously concerned. "I wonder what they are doing here so early. It isn't even sunup yet." He met them at the front door and hurriedly welcomed them inside out of the cold wind. "Come in, neighbors. Let me take your coats."
Maria and Vicente thanked Uncle Rick and prompted Alejandro and Ana to also thank Uncle Rick. He put their coats in the guest closet and ushered them into the living room.
Vicente apologized for their early visit. "I'm sorry, Rick. We tried calling but the phone lines are down. Our power went out sometime in the night and our well pump isn't pumping water. When I tried to start the generator I found there was no gas in the tank. I had filled the tank last week. I don't know what happened to the gas. Our house has no electricity or water."
Uncle Rick nodded, understanding the situation. "You know you are always welcome here. Come in and join us for breakfast. The coffee and hot chocolate are hot and ready. Brandon and Mario are preparing breakfast and there is always more than enough food for all of us."
Uncle Rick, Vicente and Henry discussed the power outage problem over the mouth-watering Italian/American breakfast.
Uncle Rick mentioned the susceptibility of the grid system. "I think we can take measures to ensure our electricity stays on during storms like this one."
Vicente agreed. "I agree the system is not as reliable as it can be. What do you propose we do, Rick?"
"Photovoltaic solar panels have been around for a few years. We could have a solar contractor construct a solar array large enough to accommodate the power needs of both of our ranches. We could have an off-grid system with underground lines feeding both of our houses and we could also have a contractor construct a hydroelectric generator in the creek that runs along the common property line and feed the electricity into the system."
Vicente was excited with the idea. "Rick, it may be expensive but it would be worth it to not be reliant on the old grid system. I know a solar contractor in Kingston. I can call him tomorrow morning if the phone lines are working."
Maria interjected. "Vicente and Rick, is there something we can do to be in contact with each other when the telephones don't work? Is there another way to contact each other?"
Henry's eyes brightened. "I have an idea. Rick, we still have the C.B. radios we used about 10 years ago. We could set those up."
Uncle Rick agreed. "Henry, that's a good idea. I knew we kept you around for a reason. We have four of those mobile C.B. radios. We could set three of them up with inverters as base stations, one for each of the houses, including Raul and Travis' house. I'm pretty sure we could find a few more and install them in the vehicles as well."
Vicente remembered he too had C.B. radios. "I have my old base station radio and two mobile radios as well. I also have the antennas.
Henry nodded. "I can get everything, including all the cars and trucks radios installed and working in a couple days."
While the adults were putting together their plan for keeping connected, Cody was busy sketching a drawing on a piece of paper. When he finished he slid the paper across the table to Uncle Rick.
Uncle Rick picked up the paper and looked at the drawing. "Cody, good job. Is it a windmill?"
Cody explained. "You know my gravity generator? Well, this is like that except instead of the alternator being connected to a weight, a propeller drives it like a windmill for power. It can be installed at Raul and Travis' house and connect it to batteries for their power."
Uncle Rick looked at the drawing once more and handed it to Vicente. "Vicente, what do you think?"
Vicente smiled at Cody. "I think Cody is as you say, a wizard. This is a very good idea. I think we should build this wind generator and install it at the boys' house."
Maria suddenly grew concerned. "Speaking of Raul and Travis, we have not heard from them. I hope they are alright."
Uncle Rick gave a reassuring smile. "Maria, if I know Raul and Travis, they are huddled together safe and warm under the covers like a couple big puppies. We can drive over to check on them after we take some gas to your place and see if there is a leak in the generator gas tank."
After breakfast Henry loaded a 5-gallon jerry can of gas into the ranch pickup. He and Vicente drove to the Sanchez ranch. Uncle Rick, Maria, Alejandro, and Ana followed in the Sanchez car.
Once there, Henry took the jerry can out of the pickup and poured a small amount of gas into the generator gas tank. Immediately gas began dripping out of the side of a rubber gas line below the tank.
Henry examined the gas line. "Well, here is the culprit. A mouse has gnawed through the fuel line. The spilled gas probably evaporated right away so it wasn't noticeable. "
Vicente saw rubber gas line chips the mouse had left on top of the engine. "Yes, I see that. I have some extra gas line hose in the tool shed. I can replace this quickly."
Henry and Vicente quickly repaired the gas line and poured more gas in the generator tank. It no longer leaked out so Henry poured the remainder of the gas into the tank. Vicente turned the key and the generator immediately started, providing power to the house. Maria thanked Henry, took the kids in the house and started a fire in the wood stove.
Henry, Vicente, and Uncle Rick drove the ranch pickup over the back road to Raul and Travis' home. When they arrived at the ridgeline a powerful gust of wind rocked the truck, startling the three men. Henry managed to keep the truck on the road and continued driving to their destination.
Raul and Travis had just finished breakfast at the rustic kitchen bar and were washing dishes when the men arrived.
Raul greeted the three visitors at the door and invited them in. "Papa, Uncle Rick, Henry, come in. We have hot coffee in the pot for you."
The three men walked into the warmly decorated country house. Hugs were shared. Raul pulled out coffee cups and Travis poured the fresh coffee from the pot that was warming on the top of the wood stove into them, handing them out.
Uncle Rick appreciated the warm coffee. "Thank you, Travis. This sure is good on a chilly day like this."
Uncle Rick glanced around the small but comfortable house. The satin-finished 2-story beamed and wood paneled ceiling matched the finished wood floor. Hand painted landscapes hung on the walls. A wooden ladder accessed a cozy sleeping loft above the lower bedroom and bathroom. Handmade cabinets and countertops complemented the ranch-architecture.
Henry thanked them for the coffee and took a sip of the delicious java. "We came to see how you guys are handling the storm. It looks like you're doing alright for yourselves."
Raul sipped the coffee from his cup. "Sometimes in the night it sounded like the wind was going to blow the house off the mountain. I'm glad we built it extra strong and we added the shutters."
Travis nodded. "Around 3:00 o'clock a strong gust tore one of the limbs off a box elder tree and blew it onto the roof of the house. We thought the roof was going to cave in. It held together though. We don't have electricity but that's okay. We have the fire in the wood stove to keep us warm and to cook meals."
This was Uncle Rick's first visit to the house on the ridgeline. "Where does your water come from?"
Raul explained. "There is an artesian spring about one-hundred feet in back of the house. It feeds into a small pond but we also have a 3,000-gallon tank that is filled by the spring water."
Vicente proudly looked around at his son's house. "We used extra heavy posts and beams for the construction. Perhaps we should have also added a generator for when the electricity fails."
Uncle Rock interjected. "That reminds me, this morning we were talking about making a more reliable power source for the three homes on the ranches. Cody came up with the idea of building a wind generator on a tower to power your house."
Raul was excited. "The wind almost always blows up here on the ridgeline. There are few calm days here. There is enough wind here to generate much more electricity than we need."
Uncle Rick offered to order the parts for the tower and generator tomorrow. Vicente offered cement and rebar steel that can be used to build a concrete base and steel bars that can be used to construct a tower on which to mount the wind generator. They could construct the wind generator within a couple days of the ordered parts arrival and have it operational in no time.
Raul and Travis enthusiastically agreed to have the wind generator installed. After they discussed the wind generator in more detail and visited a while Uncle Rick, Vicente and Henry said their farewells and made the blustery trip down the mountain road back home.
The high winds continued for the remainder of the day. Erik, Tony, and Cody spent time in the stables playing with Gisele and Sundown. Erik visited the mare and Sundown every day to watch the beautiful foal grow.
Daniel and Jason decided to spend the stormy day on the couch, cuddling and taking turns reading an exciting mystery novel to each other. The story was about three boys in search for one's missing uncle. The location of the storyline of the novel took place near Jason's old hometown, stirring their enthusiasm for the story. The young lovers kissed each other lovingly every time they completed the captivating chapters. Sometime in the late afternoon the power company linemen restored power to the ranches. Generators were shut down and life around the ranch resumed as normal.
Cody woke up with a smile on his face the next morning. The high winds from the day before had subsided and October 31 was more than just Halloween. It was also Cody's birthday. Tony and Erik treated Cody to a pampering in the shower. Tony washed Cody's back while Erik washed his front. When it was time to shampoo they had him close his eyes while they massaged his scalp with shampoo. Cody beamed from ear to ear, enjoying the wonderful head massage. Tony winked at Erik and they gave Cody loving, happy birthday kisses. After all three boys rinsed, they dried each other with towels and padded into the bedroom to dress for the day. All the kids were allowed to wear costumes to school to celebrate the holiday. Tony chose to dress as a zombie. Erik decided to dress to school as a doctor, while Cody appropriately dressed like a wizard.
At the breakfast table everyone wished Cody a happy birthday while Uncle Rick took pictures of the three boys in their costumes. Brandon made Cody's favorite blackberry waffles with homemade whipped cream. After breakfast Brandon and Henry gave Cody birthday gifts. Cody excitedly opened the package from Henry. He tore off the colorful wrapping paper to find a professional magic kit.
Cody thanked Henry with a big hug. "Thank you so much, Henry. Now I can be a real wizard."
Cody happily smiled at Brandon and opened his gift. He opened the box to reveal a box of homemade bonbon candies in the shape of little pumpkins, black cats, and ghosts.
Cody thanked Brandon with a big hug. "You remembered how much I like your candy, Brandon. Thank you so much."
Uncle Rick noticed the time on the kitchen clock. "Hey, we need to get a move on if we're going to get you guys to school."
Tony, Erik, and Cody grabbed their sack lunches Brandon had waiting for them and joined Uncle Rick at the truck.
Nearly all of the kids at Cody's school dressed in costumes. Cody, along with some of his other classmates, went straight to his classroom. He took his seat and looked around the room at the fun costumes. Joshua Hollingsworth wore a real looking Jedi Knight costume. Mary Lynn Levy was dressed as an elf and Thomas Wright was dressed as Mr. Peanut. Cody gave a confused expression glancing at Wendy Stewart. She wore some kind of costume made from curved green plastic pieces with pink feathers on the edges connected together with string. On the plastic piece that hung on her chest and the plastic piece that hung on her back were the words " Perfectly Cubed Kangaroos" written in pink markers. Neither the costume nor the words made any sense to Cody. He was about ready to ask Wendy what it meant but decided it was probably too strange to understand. He would be polite and not say anything negative about it. He was happy he didn't accept Wendy's offer to study together though.
Cody didn't want a lot of attention about his birthday. He was happy to celebrate the festive holiday of Halloween at home without calling attention to himself at school. He went through the entire day without anyone making a fuss until the last hour.
Mr. Hill finished the history lesson and made an announcement. "Today is a special day in history, class. Eleven years ago today a young man was born."
Cody shrank in his chair, realizing Mr. Hill was talking about him.
Mr. Hill continued. "That young man is sitting right here in our classroom. Lets all sing happy birthday to Cody Hansen. Everybody, Happy birthday to you...."
Cody thought to himself. "This can't be happening. This is humiliating. I should have brought Henry's magic kit and waved my wand to make this go away."
"Happy birthday dear Cody. Happy birthday to you."
The students finished singing and clapped in congratulations to Cody.
Cody took a deep breath and thanked Mr. Hill and all the students for helping to make the day special. He diverted the attention by encouraging them to have a fun night trick-or-treating and bring home lots of candy.
The students smiled and cheered. The last bell rang and class was dismissed. Many of his friends came up and wished Cody a happy birthday.
Wendy awkwardly approached Cody. "Happy birthday, Cody. Please let me know if there is anything I can do to make it better." She gave an annoying wink at Cody.
Despite not being attracted to Wendy's appearance, her voice or her attitude, Cody did his best to be nice. He knew she was not being nice to him just to be nice and was sure her motivation was self-serving. "Thank you Wendy. I promise if there is anything I can think of I'll let you know. Bye."
Wendy opened her mouth to say something else but Cody quickly grabbed his backpack and walked rapidly out of the classroom. When he spotted Uncle Rick's truck he ran as fast as he could, climbed inside, and quickly shut the door.
Uncle Rick was concerned and looked around for any nearby suspicious strangers. "What's the hurry, Cody? Is someone stalking you?"
Cody nodded. "Yeah, weird Wendy Stewart was being strange and I wanted to get away from her before she asked me to be her boyfriend or something."
Uncle Rick was grateful it was just Wendy Stewart and not someone from the church. He pulled out of the school-loading zone. "Cody, maybe Wendy Stewart thinks you would be a very nice boyfriend. Do you think you may want a girlfriend?"
Cody scrunched up his face. "No, Uncle Rick. I don't want a girlfriend. Girls smell funny like perfume and are squishy. Besides, Wendy Stewart only wants a boyfriend so she can brag to the other girls that she has one. I like just being with my brothers. They love me more than Wendy could ever love a boyfriend."
Uncle Rick felt tears form in his eyes. "That's very sweet of you, Cody. I know your brothers love you very much. So do Brandon, Henry and I."
Cody beamed. "I love you too, Uncle Rick. I always have. If you weren't driving I would give you a big hug."
Uncle Rick smiled as he drove the short distance to the junior high school to pick up Erik and Tony. The boys were waiting at the curb for him and quickly climbed in the truck to head home to the ranch. For dinner that evening Brandon cooked one of Cody's favorite meals, a fresh green leaf salad with thousand-island dressing, seasoned chicken fried chicken, which was like chicken fried steak but with chicken, smashed garlic potatoes and light gravy. After the meals were gobbled up Henry retrieved a bucket of homemade ice cream from the kitchen and was followed by Brandon carried a sheet cake with lighted candles from the kitchen. Everyone sang happy birthday to Cody, who made a wish and blew the candles out.
Cody sliced the first piece. "Ooh, yum, chocolate, my favorite! Thank you Brandon."
When everyone finished their cake and ice cream, Cody was handed colorfully wrapped gifts from everyone. Cody made out like a bandit. Daniel and Jason bought him a portable Disc player and several compact discs for him to play. Uncle Rick gave Cody a warm goose down jacket, two hooded sweat shirts and a pair of jeans. Travis and Raul gave Cody a radio controlled model airplane. Erik gave Cody more compact discs. Tony and Mario gave Cody headphones to use with his disc player. Cody gave hugs to everyone, thanking them for the wonderful presents.
After dinner Raul and Travis wished Cody happy birthday one last time and said their goodnights before driving to their house on the ridgeline. Brandon, Henry and Uncle Rick retired to their rooms, leaving Jason and Daniel to cuddle together on the loveseat. Erik and Tony cuddled Cody from both sides and Mario sat in the overstuffed chair enjoying the quiet evening in front of the fire with such loving people.
The next morning, November 1, was another important day at the Ranch. It was Daniel's 18th birthday. Daniel officially became an adult. Everyone agreed to wait until the evening, when all of the family would be home, to celebrate the occasion. At breakfast Brandon and Mario asked Daniel what he wanted to have for his special birthday dinner.
Daniel knew immediately what he wanted. That evening, per Daniel's request, Mario and Brandon served a special chicken penne marinara pasta dinner with antipasto salad and garlic bread birthday dinner for Daniel. Everyone at the table agreed it was the best chicken penne dinner they'd ever eaten. After dinner Brandon brought out a two-tier cake with lighted candles. The family sang happy birthday to Daniel, who made a wish and blew out the candles. Cody rushed into the kitchen and brought back a bucket of homemade vanilla gelato. Daniel cut the first slice and discovered it was his favorite kind, carrot cake with cream cheese frosting. He was in heaven as he gobbled up the delightful dessert.
When everyone finished the cake and ice cream Uncle Rick handed Daniel a large red envelope. Daniel beamed as he opened the envelope and pulled out a large happy birthday card. When he opened it an official looking certificate fell onto the table. Daniel first read out loud the sweet and humorous message that was printed and written in the card. He picked up the certificate that had fallen out of the card.
Uncle Rick beamed. "Read that one out loud too, Daniel."
Daniel read the certificate. "The bearer of this certificate is hereby awarded a full tuition to attend Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University conditioned upon the successful completion of a high school General Education Development program."
Daniel lowered the certificate and stared at uncle Rick. He was at a loss for words.
Uncle Rick grinned. "That's right. It's a full tuition for you to attend flight school, get your pilot's license and get your college degree as well. But you have to pass the G.E.D. examination first. I'll help you with studying to achieve that, Daniel."
Tears formed in Daniel's eyes. "Uncle Rick, no one has ever done so much for me. You saved my life, gave me a home, a family, and so much love. I can never repay you. Thank you. I promise I will pass the G.E.D. and I won't let you down."
Daniel wrapped his arms around Uncle Rick and hugged him tight. Uncle Rick held Daniel tight. "You're just like my own, Daniel. I know you'll do your best. I have a copy of the Embry-Riddle catalog in my desk to give you and you can choose your courses and major. "
Daniel beamed from ear to ear. "How did you know I wanted to go to Embry-Riddle, Uncle Rick?"
Uncle Rick winked at Cody. "A little wizard told me."
Cody giggled and handed Daniel a present wrapped in red wrapping paper and a white ribbon. Daniel thanked Cody and opened the present. He unwrapped the present to find a pilot's logbook and kneeboard. Daniel thanked Cody and gave him a big hug. Daniel picked up another present off the table and opened the envelope attached to it. Brandon and Henry signed the funny birthday card that was in the envelope. He opened the box to find a set of high quality pilot headsets. Danny's eyes opened wide. He knew how expensive the headphones were. He thanked them and gave them both big hugs.
Daniel saw another box with another envelope. It was from Raul and Travis. He thanked them and opened the box to find flight-training manuals. He thanked them and gave them big hugs. Finally it was time to open the last box. It was a large box with an envelope attached. He opened the envelope and found a beautiful romantic birthday card from Jason. He thanked Jason with a kiss and unwrapped the box. Inside was a pilot's flight bag. Jason encouraged him to open the bag. Upon doing so Daniel found a dozen roses inside. He gave a tearful thank you hug and kiss to Jason. Everyone wished Daniel a happy birthday. Daniel and Jason looked over Daniel's great gifts. Daniel thumbed through the flight-training manual while Jason took the headphones out of the box and put them on Daniel. Daniel was giddy with excitement.
Later that night Jason and Daniel retired to their bedroom. Jason stood before Daniel and took him into his arms, embracing him tenderly. Daniel lovingly returned the embrace. Jason looked into Daniels eyes and softly whispered. "Tonight is a special night, not just because it is your birthday, but because you are in the eyes of the law, able to be respected to make your own choices in life. We share a unique love, a strong passion, and a synchronous connection. Daniel, I want to be more than just friends, more than boyfriends, and more than lovers. Daniel, would you be my husband, my destined lover and my soul mate for life?"
Daniel gazed deeply into Jason's eyes and felt tears form in his. His heartbeat increased and he struggled to answer. After catching his breath, he smiled as tears ran down his cheeks. "Yes, Jason. I want more than anything to be with you forever. I'll be your partner and your destined lover. I know deep in my heart we are already soul mates and I know we are supposed to be for life."
The young lovers kissed and embraced each other passionately. As they kissed they slowly undressed one another. After they removed all of their clothes, they entwined and lowered onto the bed. The love they shared was so strong that even though they were completely naked and caressing every part of their bodies, they felt they could not get close enough to satisfy their ever-increasing desires. Any resistance gave way to passion as they made fiery love that night, confirming and satisfying their desires, their love, and their devotion.
Vicente's solar contractor, Bob McCain in Kingston, made an appointment to visit and tour the Sanchez and Rhyolite Ranches on the following Saturday. Bob McCain and his 11-year old son, Christopher arrived at Vicente's home precisely at 11:00 A.M. Saturday. Vicente had worked together with Bob last year on a building project on a ranch located in a remote area about 30 miles south of Chaparral. The two men hit it off and worked well to quickly finish the project in less time than the owner had planned. Vicente climbed into Bob's truck and they drove to the Rhyolite Ranch to start the tour. When Bob climbed out of the truck, Uncle Rick noticed Bob's handsome face, large bedroom-eyes, and toned muscles. He shook his hand and instantly felt a strong connection. Bob couldn't help but notice Uncle Rick's loving eyes, warm welcoming smile, and bulky muscles. He also felt that special connection when they shook hands.
Cody came out of the house and saw Vicente and Uncle Rick talking with Bob. He also noticed a very cute boy, Christopher, who looked up at him and smiled. Cody came to the group and said hi. Uncle Rick introduced Cody to Bob and Christopher. Bob shook Cody's hand. Christopher smiled and shook Cody's hand as well. He held it a bit longer and Cody gave a big smile. While Vicente, Bob, and Uncle Rick walked around the grounds, Christopher and Cody hung back a bit and became acquainted. Soon they were getting along as if they had known each other for years. After touring the ranch house, new barn, and stables the group went to Cody's gravity generator. Bob had been writing meticulous notes on a notepad and took particular interest in the device as Cody briefly explained how it worked and even more so when they toured the greenhouse and saw the number of lights and fans using electricity generated by the gravity generator.
Christopher whispered in Cody's ear. "Cody, my dad is impressed with your gravity generator. I am too. You must be really smart to design something like that."
Cody beamed. "Thank you, Christopher. That means a lot coming from you, being the son of a solar energy contractor and all."
After discussing the energy needs of the Rhyolite Ranch, the five climbed in Bob's truck and drove to the Sanchez Ranch, where they toured the facilities and discussed the energy needs there. After showing Bob the Sanchez facilities they climbed in the truck and took the back road to Raul and Travis' house. Raul and Travis welcomed everyone and talked about their energy requirements. Bob noticed a place in back of their house that would be an ideal location to construct a tower for a wind generator. After saying goodbyes to Raul and Travis the group drove to the creek that ran along the boundary of the two properties. The creek was flowing heavily and Bob made additional notes on his note pad. On the way back to the Sanchez house Christopher and Cody sat in the rear seat with their legs touching. They smiled at each other often and could tell they both liked each other. Vicente said his goodbyes at his house and the group continued to the Rhyolite Ranch. Uncle Rick invited Bob and Christopher to have lunch before leaving for their return journey to Kingston. Bob accepted the invitation.
Brandon and Mario had prepared a homemade Italian chicken soup, warm sourdough bread and meatball sandwiches. Henry, Jason, Daniel, Erik and Tony took a break from their chores and joined the rest of the family for lunch.
Bob complemented the family on how well kept and orderly the ranch was. He asked Uncle Rick about the history of the ranch. Uncle Rick explained how when he was seven years old, in the late 1950's, his parents grew crops in order to acquire over 1,280 acres through the federal government's homestead act. After they were patented the land the family built the ranch house and moved into it. When Uncle Rick was 20-years old his parents passed away leaving the ranch to him. For a while it was just Uncle Rick and Wes, who his parents hired to run the ranch. His friends, Henry and Brandon were living in Chaparral and looking for work. Uncle Rick had known them all of his life and hired them.
Bob noticed there were no women in the house. "Did you ever want a wife?"
Uncle Rick chuckled. "No, I've never wanted a wife. That wouldn't work at all."
Christopher interjected. "My dad doesn't want a wife either."
Bob snickered. "Christopher is right. I've been single all my life. I wouldn't mind a partner if the right one came along but I never wanted a wife. I adopted Christopher when he was 5 years old and it's been just the two of us."
Cody smiled at Christopher, reached over and squeezed his hand. Christopher held on to Cody's hand and beamed from ear to ear.
Uncle Rick was intrigued with Bob and asked him how he entered the solar energy business.
Bob began his story. "I was about Christopher's age when the world celebrated Earth Day for the first time. The entire world was focused on creating a better environment on our planet. It made a big impression on me. That day I decided I would have a career focused on creating a better world. When I graduated from high school I got a job with a solar energy company in Arizona. I learned the basics of the industry. After being with that company for three years, I quit, moved back home to Kingston and started my own business. I've been doing that since."
Uncle Rick thought about the potential for an energy contractor in a small town. "Do you have enough business in Kingston?"
Bob shook his head in the negative. "At first things were going great but the last few years the market seems to have dropped off. Kingston may have a larger population than Chaparral but most of the homes are pretty close together within a few blocks radius of downtown. There are very few rural places like this ranch, so everyone is content with their grid power. Most aren't interested in going solar. That's why when Vicente called me I drove right over. I sure could use the business and would love to help you guys get off the grid. I will give you the best price I can too."
Uncle Rick nodded, understanding. "Bob, if the price is right, we'll give you the contract."
Bob grinned. "I know I can make the price right. I'll get you the estimate as soon as I work up the figures." Bob looked at Christopher. "What do you think, my man? Should we get a move on and hit the road back home?"
Cody suddenly felt ill and realized something was wrong. He had to say something quickly. "Uncle Rick, maybe Mr. McCain and Christopher would like to stay overnight and drive home in the morning."
Uncle Rick agreed with Cody. "Yes, Bob, why don't you guys stay overnight and get a fresh start in the morning."
Bob hesitated. "Well, we can't impose and besides, you just met us. We can head back after lunch."
Cody felt faint and sick to his stomach. "Uncle Rick, please!"
Uncle Rick noticed Cody's expression, a mix of pain and panic. "Cody, is something wrong?"
Cody nodded. "They aren't supposed to drive home today."
Uncle Rick looked directly at Cody. "Cody, is this one of those things we talked about? Is something bad going to happen?"
Cody nodded. "Yes, Uncle Rick, please. They need to stay here tonight."
As Bob and Christopher watched in confusion, Uncle Rick thought how to explain Cody's insistence. He turned to Bob with a serious expression. "This may sound a bit strange, but Cody has an unusual ability. He intuitively knows when things in the universe are right or wrong. I don't know how he knows but he's never been wrong. At first I doubted his ability but after being correct every time, I completely believe in him. Please, is there any way you guys can stay here tonight? I promise it is no imposition, you will be refreshed for the drive home tomorrow morning, and we'd love to have you."
Bob looked in Uncle Rick's eyes and saw his genuine concern as well. He turned to Christopher. "What do you think, sport? Do you want to stay here at the ranch tonight and drive home tomorrow?"
Christopher glanced at Cody and smiled. "Dad, I trust Cody and besides, everyone here is so nice. If we left now we wouldn't be home until after dinner time anyway. Can we, Dad, Please?"
Bob knew when he was outnumbered. "Okay, you talked me into it. We'll stay the night. Thank you for your generous hospitality, Rick; and Cody, thank you for your concern about our safety."
Cody suddenly felt better. "Thank you, Mr. McCain. I promise you will be glad you did. We have lots of room. Also, Brandon is a wizard chef and Mario can cook better than anyone in Italy."
Everyone at the table laughed at Cody's utmost confidence in Brandon and Mario.
Cody and Christopher were inseparable after lunch. Cody showed him Giselle, Sundown, and the rest of the horses.
Christopher mentioned he never rode a horse before and Cody's eyes brightened. "Maybe we could go riding now. I'll ask Uncle Rick."
Christopher beamed. "Can we?"
Cody shrugged. "Maybe, let's go ask."
The boys padded into the ranch house and found Uncle Rick and Christopher's dad still talking at the table.
Cody asked permission to take Christopher horseback riding. Uncle Rick suggested the four of them go for a horseback ride together. Cody saw Uncle Rick and Bob give each other an affectionate glance and smile. At that moment he knew he was going to have a new uncle and he giggled.
Uncle Rick gave Cody a stern look. "Don't make me do a sneak up tickle attack, you varmint. If you get the horses ready, we'll be right there."
Cody and Christopher returned to the stables and saddled Cody's horse and two horses for Uncle Rick and Bob. "For the first time we'll both ride together. You can sit in front of me and I'll teach you how to ride."
Christopher was excited. "Cody, will you please make sure I don't fall off?"
Cody grinned. "I promise I'll hold you close and you won't fall off."
Uncle Rick and Bob joined the boys in the stables. Soon the four were on the trail leading to the ridgeline overlooking the beautiful valley to the southwest. Cody put his arms around Christopher's waist holding him securely. Occasionally he would quietly give him instructions and helpful hints. It wasn't long before Christopher was doing so well it was as if he had ridden for years. Soon the four reached the valley overlook.
Bob stared into the distance, marveling at the spectacular view before him. "Now I understand why you stayed here after your parents passed away. This is a beautiful place you have here, Rick. I'm amazed you haven't found anyone who would do anything to be here with you."
Uncle Rick gave a sheepish grin. "Well, I guess nobody appreciated the view."
Bob lowered his head and looked up at Rick. "Until now, maybe."
Cody gently squeezed Christopher and put his chin on his shoulder to whisper in his ear. "I think my uncle likes your dad."
Christopher turned beaming from ear to ear turned and whispered to Cody. "I think my dad likes your uncle and that's not all."
Christopher smiled and kissed Cody's cheek. Cody giggled with delight and returned a kiss on Christopher's cheek.
After a few minutes of affectionately admiring the view the four continued along the trail to a fork in the road. One trail continued northerly to the back of the ranch. The other branched to the east to Becker's Canyon. They decided Becker's Canyon would be more interesting to the McCains, so they took the eastern trail. After a half-hour they reached the opening to Becker's Canyon and continued into the narrowing passageway. Christopher looked down to see the horse's hooves splashing in the warm water flowing over the gravel of the canyon floor. When they reached the sand bar in the open area of the canyon, they dismounted and let the horses munch on the grasses that poked through the sand to the life-giving sunlight. The men and boys walked along the creek to the pool of warm water that Daniel and Cody constructed.
Uncle Rick casually inspected the pool. "Cody, you and Daniel told me about building this and it sounded like you put a lot of work into it. This is the first time I've seen it. I didn't know it was this big. You guys did a good job building it."
Cody beamed. "Thank you, Uncle Rick. It's deep enough for us to soak and even swim a little in the water too. Can we...um, May we please go swimming?"
Uncle Rick felt taken aback. "We don't have any swimming trunks, Cody. We don't want to embarrass our guests."
Christopher snickered. "Don't worry about embarrassing me. I go skinny-dipping with my friends in their swimming pool all the time."
Bob grinned. "How about it, Rick? It will be like it was when we were kids."
Cody encouraged Uncle Rick. "There aren't any girls to giggle at us, Uncle Rick. Can't we go swimming for a while?"
Uncle Rick relinquished. "Well, it does sound refreshing. Sure, why not!"
Cody and Christopher cheered, quickly removed their clothes and slid into the soothing warm water and splashed each other playfully. Uncle Rick and Bob slid their clothes off and climbed into the relaxing pool.
Bob quickly noticed how invigorating the water seemed to be. "Say, what is in this water? I feel great."
Uncle Rick realized he also felt energized. "I've never had the water here tested before. Maybe I should have that done."
Cody giggled. "Test this Uncle Rick!"
Giving a mischief expression, Cody playfully splashed Uncle Rick.
Christopher laughed and followed Cody's lead, splashing his dad.
Bob turned to Uncle Rick. "What do you say, shall we teach these boys how to have a splash fight?"
Uncle Rick grinned. "Let's do it!"
Suddenly water flew everywhere in an epic water battle. At first the men gained ground, backing Cody and Christopher towards the side of the pool. The skirmish suddenly turned when Bob and Uncle Rick started laughing hysterically. They laughed so hard they doubled over. Cody and Christopher attacked full force, splashing harder and faster until the men retreated to their side of the pool in uncontrolled laughter. Cody and Christopher cheered at their victory and hugged each other in celebration. Uncle Rick and Bob lay back together laughing. As they held on to each other their laughter subsided and they caught their breath and stared into each other's eyes. They smiled and simultaneously leaned in, softly kissing each other's lips.
Cody and Christopher happily grinned at each other and also lovingly kissed. The men broke their kiss and glanced at the lip-locked boys.
Uncle Rick smiled lovingly. "It looks like things are going to get very interesting."
Bob nodded in agreement. "I'll say. I didn't expect any of this."
The men cuddled in the relaxing water while the boys quietly embraced. All four were in blissful peace. After about 15 minutes Uncle Rick noticed the water in the pool sloshing from one side to the other.
Cody looked up to see the waves in the water and looked at Uncle Rick. "Uncle Rick, I think we just had an earthquake."
Uncle Rick nodded. "I think you're right. Maybe we should head back to the house."
The four guys dried off the best they could, dressed, mounted their horses and rode back to the ranch house. Upon returning they found Henry, Brandon, Jason and Daniel inspecting the house, new barn, and stables.
Henry walked over to Uncle Rick. "I don't know if you felt the earthquake where you were but it was pretty big here. It shook the house quite a bit. We're looking for any signs of damage from it. Everything looks okay though."
Uncle Rick was relieved. "Do we know where the epicenter was?"
Henry shook his head. "We haven't heard and I didn't want to tie up the lines to the sheriff's office. I imagine it will be in tomorrow's news though."
Uncle Rick, Bob, Cody and Christopher walked the horses to the stables, unsaddled them, brushed them and gave them hay and water to cool down from the afternoon walk. After the horses were safely in their stables, the four returned to the ranch house to find Brandon and Mario preparing dinner.
Cody peeked in the kitchen. "What's for dinner, wizard chefs?"
Mario giggled. "To celebrate the earthquake we're having strawberry shake-em-up Jello.
Cody giggled. "Mario, if we're having Jello, why does it smell like marina sauce?"
Mario laughed. "You mean marinara sauce. Marina sauce isn't nearly as tasty and smells fishy."
Cody giggled at his mistake. "Oh yeah. Okay, why does it smell like marinara sauce?"
Mario held back his laughter and shrugged. "Maybe Brandon is making Italian Jello.
Cody scrunched up his face. "Ewwww, I think I'll just have cereal tonight."
Brandon snickered. "We can do better than cereal or Jello, Cody. Dinner will be ready in about an hour. Make sure you're all washed and ready to eat. "
Dinner was a delicious meatloaf wrapped in bacon and covered with cheese, preceded by a tasty fresh salad made from produce picked from the greenhouse, glazed carrots, and smashed potatoes with gravy made from the juices of the meatloaf. Bob and Christopher felt so welcomed by everyone in the family and were happy they made the choice to stay overnight at the ranch.
After dinner Uncle Rick and Bob joined the boys gathered around the fire, cuddling in the second love seat.
Cody smiled and giggled.
Uncle Rick gave Cody a mock mean look. "Just what are you giggling about, young man?"
Cody giggled again. "We're going to need more cuddle seats if any more of us cuddle in here."
Uncle Rick chuckled, looked at Bob, whom he embraced, and agreed.
They cuddled for hours until everyone began yawning. It was time for bed.
Brandon and Henry said goodnight and went to their rooms. Uncle Rick and Bob retired to Uncle Rick's room while Jason and Daniel cuddled under their sheets. Erik and Tony climbed into their bed and cuddled with each other. Cody welcomed Christopher into his bed with a warm embrace. Everyone slept soundly with smiles on their faces.
Brandon and Henry were up at sunrise to feed animals. When they were finished Brandon turned on the coffee pot and began preparing breakfast. He put bacon in the frying pan, chuckled, and started a countdown measuring the time it took for the aromas to wake the family. The countdown lasted only a few minutes before Brandon heard stirring coming from the bedrooms and bathrooms. He smiled, knowing he had the best olfactory alarm clock in the world for waking men from their sleep.
Uncle Rick and Bob were the first couple to find their way to the kitchen. They poured themselves coffee and sat at the breakfast table. Jason and Daniel were next to come into the kitchen. They were the tea drinkers of the family. Daniel put the kettle on and put loose tea in the tea baskets. At last Erik, Tony, Cody, and Christopher slowly strolled into the kitchen, poured themselves orange juice and cuddled together at the table.
As everyone was enjoying the morning libations when the telephone rang. Brandon was closest to it and answered it. The guys stayed quiet so he could hear the person on the other end of the line.
Brandon nodded. "Yes, Vicente? That's horrible. When did it happen? No, they stayed overnight here. Yes, it sure is a good thing they did. Cody insisted they not drive back yesterday. I agree. Yes, well thanks for calling, Vicente. I'll let them know. Have a good day. Bye."
Uncle Rick was concerned. "Brandon, what is it?"
Brandon looked shocked. "That earthquake we felt yesterday was centered near Black Rock Canyon. The quake triggered a landslide in the canyon. The landslide came down on the Kingston Highway. Eight cars and a semi-truck were caught in the landslide. Ten people were killed and five sustained major injuries. According to the highway patrol, the highway will be closed for at least three days. Vicente says he is glad you decided not to drive home."
Bob and Christopher's eyes widened. Bob looked at Cody. "You did know. We would have been right there about the time the earthquake occurred. You saved our lives. Cody, thank you."
Cody smiled. "Thank you for believing me, Mr. McCain. I'm glad you stayed. Now you and Uncle Rick can be boyfriends and Christopher and I can be boyfriends too."
Christopher beamed from ear to ear, leaned over and kissed Cody's cheek.
Uncle Rick glanced at Cody. "Why do you think Bob and I can be boyfriends and why do you think you and Christopher can be boyfriends? We all just met yesterday."
Cody giggled. "Uncle Rick, Cody knows all!"
Uncle Rick shook his head. "Silly me for asking."
Bob thought for a moment and suddenly had a concerned look. "How are we going to go home today? The road is closed."
Uncle Rick sipped his coffee and set the cup down on the table. "Daniel, what do you think? Do you know any way to get Bob and Christopher back to Kingston today?"
Daniel sat up straight and grinned. "Uncle Rick, can you fly them home?"
Uncle Rick chuckled. "I thought that would wake you up. Yes, we can fly them to Kingston after breakfast. I say we because I'm going to need a copilot to help me with the checklists and navigating. Do you know anyone around here who may be interested?"
Daniel beamed. "Of course! I would love to copilot."
Uncle Rick chuckled. "I knew you would."
Bob still looked concerned. "We can get a ride from the Kingston Airport home and I can drive my car while there but my work truck would be here.
Uncle Rick nodded. "Hopefully your work here is just beginning. If five days will be enough for you to calculate the estimates for the solar project, I could fly you back here on Friday, after Christopher gets out of school. You guys can spend the weekend again and drive back Sunday. How does that sound?"
Bob was thrilled. "It's more than enough time to calculate the estimate. That sounds like a plan. What do you think, Christopher?"
Christopher grinned and looked at Cody. "Yes, we should do that so I can be with my boyfriend again."
Everyone chuckled at Christopher's enthusiasm.
At 9:00 A.M. Bob and Christopher said their good-byes and thanked everyone for their hospitality. Christopher and Cody and said their loving farewells in Cody's room before gathering in front of the house with the rest of the family. Uncle Rick, Bob, Daniel and Christopher climbed in Uncle Rick's truck to drive to the airport. Cody felt tears in his eyes as his boy looked out the back window and waved. Uncle Rick stopped the truck half way to the gate. Christopher opened the door, climbed out and ran back to Cody. He gave him one last embrace, passionately kissed him goodbye, and ran back to the truck. Cody, with tears running down his cheeks giggled with happiness. Everything was as it was supposed to be in the world.
Author's notes:
Thanks to the raging windstorm The Rhyolite and Sanchez Ranches are going green. Uncle Rick and Cody are excited about seeing more of Bob and Christopher McCain. Could this be love at first sight for all four of them? What is up with Wendy Stewart? It's a good thing Cody knew she sure wasn't supposed to be in his life more than just being a classmate. Daniel has turned 18 years old and is now an adult. With Jason, the love of his life and Uncle Rick providing life-long love and a promising future, along with his inheritance, can it get any better? How is the F.B.I. investigation of Cedarline and the church coming along? Has the class action lawsuit been filed? What is to become of Daniel and Erik's mother? Will justice prevail?
Thanks to readers Vern, John H., Bobby Joe, Duke, Chub Bear, John K., T.S.L., Martin, George, and Todd for your kind emails.
Thank you also to my anonymous S.L. friend and to Mark for your much appreciated help with this chapter.
I welcome any respectful comments. Please send me an email and tell me what you think about the story. Thanks!
rhyolite221@outlook.com