Chapter Text
Feeling it settling into his bones Snafu tipped back the bottle eyes glinting in the shimmering moonlight. He felt himself slipping again. Here he lay on his tattered blanket alone, nothing but superficial friendships, no possibilities. Staring at the water stained ceiling above him he ignored the ruckus going on in the other room. He had long since stopped trying to keep it from happening, earning a busted lip on numerous occasions. If his momma wasn’t going to leave him then that was on her. So here he lay, 17 years old going on 18 with no one to talk to. Snafu was a lone wolf, always had been. Sure he had a bit of a reputation, but how couldn’t he, growing up in this house. He hit the parties on occasion, trists beneath the sheets. Nothing really mattered except the mantra that kept beating through his head, “get out, get out.”
As usual it was sticky hot, even with the window open, barely a wisp of air blew through. He laid there shirtless in a pair of too loose jean shorts, sweating.
Hearing something hit the wall he looked out the window. His momma’s husband didn’t come after him anymore. Not since Snafu had kicked the shit out of him. How much more of this could he take and why the fuck should he have to? He was ready to leave, get out of this hellhole. Surely there was something better in store for him.
Grabbing the shoebox from under his bed he started counting what he had stashed. Three thousand, not nearly enough. He’d need more than that to pack his bags and go. He would bide his time and wait it out. He’d done it since she married him. Picking the bottle up off the floor he stared out the window and took a long drink. It helped numb things, made life more bearable.
Closing his eyes he shut out the yelling from the other room. He had to get up early tomorrow for work. Rolling on his side he stuffed the pillow over his head. The door was always locked. The pillow muffled the sounds as he drifted off to sleep.
Getting up in the morning all was quiet. Gingerly stepping over to his door he unlocked it, cracking it open. Furtively looking around he saw his momma’s room was shut. Good, he thought. Things would go much easier if he could just slip out. Quietly grabbing his keys he closed the door of their two bedroom little shack and got in his truck. Breathing a sigh of relief he pulled onto the street. When he’d first started working her fuckin’ husband had thought he was going to take the money. Not a damn chance. That was one fist fight he came out on the other side. Worth every blow he took. He brought the money with him when he left the house, always safe under the seat. Driving along he felt relief settle the further he got down the road. Pulling up at the docks he got ready for hard labor. Unpacking and icing the large fish, shrimp and crabs kept him constantly moving.
“Hey there, copain (buddy).” Lifting his cap Snafu’s boss gestured for him to come over. “I’ve got cha working on swordfish today.” Leading him down the lane Snafu prepared for some strenuous activities. Swordfish were big and icing them took some time. Looking at the loading truck backed up to the dock he swept his hand across his forehead. The air was already steaming. Packing the fish in boxes of ice he loaded each cooler into the waiting truck. Before the boats came in the fisherman sent out a message with today's catch to the chefs in the city. Usually by the time the boat reached the dock all the fish were spoken for. Continuing along he got into a rhythm, loading the cooler halfway with ice, throwing the fish inside and covering it with ice. Once iced, on the truck it went. Over and over all day long he worked. By the time his day was done he was exhausted and stunk like fish. Grabbing the cash from his boss he hopped in his truck and drove home.
Shoving the money in his box he hid it back under the seat, locking the truck behind him. He had the only pair of keys and it would probably be safer left there. Skirting around the front of the house he strode towards the back door. Quietly letting himself in he grabbed some clothes from his bedroom and locked the door behind him as he entered the tiny bathroom. There was a time when his mom, Miranda, tried to make things homey, even with their small amount of money. That didn’t happen anymore. Everything was run down and she pampered that dickhead she’d married.
Wincing he looked in the mirror. His eyes looked older than they should. Probably from dealing with all the bullshit. Snafu really wished his Dad were still alive. He missed him.
God he hurt all over. It was a good thing he was off tomorrow, because he would be useless. He’d be surprised if he could lift anything. Stepping under the spray the hot water felt decadent as it beat against his skin. Grabbing his soap he scrubbed the grime and smell of fish off his body. Lathering up his dark hair he closed his eyes as he rinsed it out. He wasn’t going out tonight. Snapping the water off he toweled dry, curls dripping water. Throwing on his clothes he shoved his work attire in the well worn hamper. Unlocking the door he was ready for anything. Scooting down the hall he heard “bébé?”
Sighing, he turned towards the kitchen. “Sit down and have somethin’ ta eat,” his momma beckoned.
“I ain’t stayin’ out here if he’s in this house.” He said firmly.
Bringing him some shrimp and potatoes over she set them down on the table.
“He ain’t here,” she turned back towards the sink. She knew Merriell tiptoed around this house because of her husband and the way he treated them, but she had nowhere to go. She felt helpless.
Sitting down across from him as he ate she wondered what type of man she had raised, or rather tried to raise. He never spoke with her, making himself scarce. She felt like she barely knew him and it was all her own fault.
“Ya been workin’ at the docks today?” She asked. There had been a hell of an upheaval when he’d refused to hand over his pay. One thing Merriell had learned in this house was how to fight and he’d knocked her husband right on his ass.
“Yeah,” he continued eating. “Tis hard work, but the pay is good.” Hoping she would leave it alone; he just kept eating. Surely she understood he was saving to leave this house. That’s why he was doing such a hard job. The money made it worthwhile.
“Merriell,” she slipped her hand over his, heart breaking at the flinch. “I’m sorry ya have had ta live ere’ with him.
“I don’ want ta talk about it,” he continued to eat, refusing to look at her.
“Yer tryin’ ta save enough ta get out o’ here ain’t cha.” Removing her hand Miranda laid it in her lap. She never would have married Jed if she thought it would come to this. She just hadn’t known what to do after Snafu’s Dad died. She’d made a monumental mistake and thus lost her boy over it. He’d dropped out of school the minute he turned sixteen and went to work.
Blue eyes meeting blue Miranda was surprised at the hard glint in her boy’s. He looked rough, a hint of danger surrounded him and she knew he wouldn’t put up with anymore shit.
“Why the hell would I want ta stay here?” He asked incredulously. “So I can watch him beat the hell out o’ you or come after me?” Crossing his arms he leaned back in his chair. “I ain’t stayin. The minute I hit eighteen I’m gone.”
Miranda knew he meant exactly what he said and getting paid what he did down at the docks he’d have more than enough money to go his own way.
“Are ya at least gonna stay in New Orleans?” She asked, keeping her fingers crossed he would. If he left she’d never see him again. She had no doubt.
“I’m gonna go whereva’ I can find work,” he shrugged. “Makes me no difference where.” There was a time when he would have never thought things would turn out this way. When his father had been alive, life was glowing. He had a family, but the accident had happened and the light in his life had been torn away, forever gone. Snafu had learned the hard way that life wasn’t fair.
Miranda gazed out the window into their little backyard, water lapping at the shore, the place she’d watched her son grow up and now he would leave her. All over a series of bad decisions on her part.
“I’m goin’ ta my room cause I’m sure that asshole is gonna be home soon.” Placing his empty plate in the sink Snafu muttered “thanks for the food,” as he walked through the doorway.
Laying back against his bed every muscle in his body was on fire. His back especially was killing him. Flipping on the television he had bought with his own money he settled on a movie to watch. Listening at the door he didn’t hear Jed out there moving around. Unlocking it he slipped into the kitchen, grabbing a soda. Getting the papers out from under the bed Snafu looked at the welder’s apprenticeship. If he could do that he would have a skill that he could turn into a career. His boss had given it to him yesterday. Maybe he’d give them a call tomorrow. He would have to plot the time out to do it because he couldn’t stop working yet, but he could figure something out. That was at the top of his list. Making enough to leave. Looking down at his phone he saw he had no missed messages, no calls. Feeling a little lonesome he dreamed of leaving, finding an apartment, a safe space, his own place, and actually having friends, maybe a lover. Then he wouldn’t have to worry anymore. Snafu was dreadfully lonely.
The year passed swiftly and true to his word the second he turned eighteen Snafu was out looking for an apartment. Scouting around he finally found one that he could afford, even if it was in a poorer neighborhood. There had never been anything sweeter than when the landlord placed the bronze key in his hands. Driving quickly back to his house, you couldn’t really call it a home, he packed his stuff. He didn’t have much but his clothes, so he grabbed a duffle and shoved them inside, he’d already put his television in his beat up truck. Stepping out of his bedroom he deliberately walked through the kitchen seeing that fucker sitting at the table as his Momma catered to him. Looking around he took a deep breath.
“I’m leavin,” he stated. “And I ain’t comin’ back.” There wasn’t anything he would miss about being here. Sure there were happy memories from when he was small, but the bad outweighed the good.
“Don’t let the door hit you on the ass on your way out,” he heard Jed mouth off.
Walking through the living room Snafu heard his momma scurrying along after him. Feeling a tug to his arm he turned.
“Bonne chance mon cher (good luck my dear)” she whispered. She wanted to give him a hug goodbye, but knew better. He was unapproachable.
“Au revoir,” he answered, turning and walking quickly to his truck. Climbing in he felt relief. Looking in the rear view mirror he saw his momma standing on the porch, arms clenched around herself, staring off into the bayou. Staring resolutely ahead he put that life behind, moving forward towards a new one. Driving along he grinned. Stopping at a thrift store he bought a mattress and a dresser, a bit of this and that and then loaded it into his truck. He happily drove back to his apartment, his own place.
Grabbing his stuff out of the truck he walked into the one room apartment. Throwing the mattress in the corner he quickly put his clothes away, placing his television on top of the dresser. He’d have to run to the grocery store and grab some food, but tonight he was getting fast food. Driving through the local McDonalds he got a hamburger and fries, digging in on the drive back to his place. He finally had enough saved to look into that welding course. Don, his boss, had told him he could work clean-up at night, so he’d have his days free.
Laying down on the small twin mattress he shoved his pillow up under his head, pulling the ratty blanket over him. He may not have much, but was thankful for what he had. Snafu hadn’t told anyone where he was moving. He didn’t want anyone to know, and besides it wasn’t like he was going to stay in New Orleans anyway. It was time to get out. He’d get his apprenticeship done and gladly leave this city behind. Thinking of the future a smile ghosted over his face. Things were looking brighter.
It took a bit to get his welder’s license, but he was finally done. Grinning down, Snafu looked at the little card verifying he was now an official welder. Now he could start fresh, move on, and start building his own life. Deciding to travel elsewhere, he settled on Texas. He’d found a place to stay, his old boss had set him up with a welder in the area and things were looking good.
It wasn’t until he got a call for a job at a place in Texas, that he had an encounter with a large horse farm. Snafu had never been around horses before and was a bit stunned at the expanse of land. His boss had sent him out today because he knew the repairs needed would make decent money.
Driving down a graveled lane Snafu looked at the sprawling ranch, animals, side buildings, and red painted barns. It was beautiful. Horses grazing, farmhands working.
Stopping his truck he watched as a man in jeans and cowboy boots walked forward from a sprawling ranch house towards him as he hopped out of his truck.
“You the fella from the welding place?” The man asked, tipping his hat down in hello. “I got some pipes needing mended in my barn ova’ there.” Pointing out a large red barn, Snafu followed him over.
“They’re starting to get weak and we’re dripping water. That something you can fix?” Looking the scrawny boy over Joseph thought he caught a bit of desperation in his eyes.
“You done been in Texas long?” He asked as they crunched across the rocks leading up to the barn. “What kind of work do you do? Just welding?
“I’m a jack o’ all trades,” Snafu followed along behind. “I go wherever the work takes me.”
“Are you a hard worker?” Joseph asked, sliding open the barn door.
“I been slingin’ fish on the docks since I was 16 and ain’t stopped workin’ since.”
Looking the boy over, Joe thought he might be able to entice him to work here. He could pay him more than some piddly welding job and provide housing.
“Have ya worked with horses much?” He asked, stepping through the door. The sounds of horses stamping their feet rang out through the air.
Seeing a red chestnut Snafu couldn’t help but reach out and touch. She had a large white diamond on her head, stunning to look at.
“That there’s my Dahlia and her I’ll never sell. She breeds winners with the right stud. That pipe is right over here.” Coming around the corner he pointed it out to Snafu. “Come back and find me when you're done. I’ve got a proposition for you.”
Looking startled, Snafu nodded his head. “Will do, sir.” Getting his tools out he got to work repairing the pipes. Once finished he took a good look around. These people were rich. Stepping to the door he could see the multiple barns, horses in paddocks. This man trained winners. Snafu wondered if he had any triple crowns. Each stall was pristine with a brass plaque on the front with the horse’s name. These horses lived better than he ever had growing up. Packing up his tools he scouted around looking for the owner. He definitely needed the paycheck. Even with the welding jobs he was barely making ends meet.
Seeing him cross a pasture to where a man was running a horse through some paces Snafu followed him over. Kicking his boot up on the wooden fence he uttered “that’s a mighty fine horse ya got there.”
“He’s my next derby winner. My son Romus trains him. Training is an integral part of our program.” Watching as Romus guided him along, Snafu felt uncomfortable bringing up his payment.
“I done fixed yer issue.” Looking at him expectantly he watched as he took a wad of cash out of his pocket. “Here ya go, son.” Handing the money over Joseph took a good look at the kid. “You ever worked on a farm?”
“Nah, sir,” Snafu shook his head. I spent my time in Louisiana icing fish. Twas’ hard work, but got me out o’ there.”
Eyeing him over Joseph had a good feeling about this one. “What if I offered you pay, room and board here?”
Stumbling Snafu asked, “what do ya mean sir?” This couldn’t possibly be happening. To be able to stay here all the time? There had to be a catch. Nothing ever came easy.
“I mean live in my workers’ quarters, fix things when I need it and eventually work with my horses. I had someone quit a couple days ago, so there’s an opening.” Lighting a cigarette he glanced over at the tan skinned man. It was apparent he’d spent many hours in the sun.
“This would be a for sure thing?” Snafu asked. “I don’ want ta give up my job ta be back on the streets in two weeks.”
Taking a good look Joseph knew he meant it. This man had led a hard life, living from fist to mouth. “I don’t hire people I don’t intend to keep. I’ve got a good feeling about you kid. Go get your stuff, come on back and we’ll start your training tomorrow.”
Feeling a little shell-shocked, Snafu took the cash and walked off to his truck. This was mind boggling. He felt bad he was leaving his current job, but this was too good of an opportunity to pass up.
Driving back to his apartment he started packing, not that he had much. He rented by the month, so no big deal there. Sighing heavily he put in the call to his boss, Ben. This was going to be the hard part. Ben had taken him under his wing and helped him get established in a new place that had the potential to bring him to a point in his life where he didn’t have to worry about paying bills.
Listening to it ring he finally answered. “Hey Ben,” he started. How did you just tell someone you quit?
“I’m calling ta let ya know that I been offered ta work out at the Burgin ranch and I’m gonna take it. M’ sorry, but I think it’s a good path for me.” Waiting, Snafu held a breath. Surely Ben would understand.
“Well I hate to lose you Snafu, but you do what you need to do. You can pick up your check anytime.”
“Thank ya, sir. I’m lookin’ forward ta workin’ with them horses,” and he was looking forward to it. Something about that mare called to him. Her deep chestnut coat, soft brown eyes, the way she butted her nose against his hand. He needed something good in his life. Something that chose to show him love, acceptance, and belongingness. Gathering his slight things up he packed them into his truck. He was supposed to be there at 7:00am. Stretching across his bed he smiled as he drifted off to sleep. Perhaps things were looking up. God knows it was about time.
Leaning over and hitting the alarm, Snafu felt renewed. Cracking the window he lit a cigarette, looking out at the city that was already coming to life, stores beginning to open, men sweeping the sidewalks. The sun was casting beams across the pavement, such a beautiful sunrise. This was the beginning of a new life, maybe a good life, a permanent life. Grabbing his keys he was out the door.
Driving along he took in the scenery, cow fields, more horses, wooded areas. Finally arriving at the turnoff he pulled down the lane, parking in front of the barn where he could see Joseph waving.
“Hey there Snafu,” Joseph yelled as he got out of his truck. “I’d like you to meet my son Romus.” Extending his hand Snafu felt a strong grip.
“It’s good to have you Snafu,” Romus said. “Most people call me Burgie. If you want to grab your stuff I’ll show you to your quarters. You’ll be sharing with a guy named Bill Leyden. I think you’ll get along pretty well.”
Following along behind the blue-eyed man they came to a small quaint cabin. Turning and smiling, Burgie gestured “This is you.”
Following Burgie inside there were two twin beds, a little kitchen and a bathroom. “It’s a bit rustic,” Burgie smiled, but it works.”
“This is fine with me,” Snafu murmured. It was nicer than any other place he’d lived. “Which bed is mine?” He asked. That’s the last thing he needed was to settle into the wrong side of the room.
“You’re on the right,” Burgie pointed. Giving him his cellphone number he called out as he turned to go. “If you need anything, text me.”
Looking startled Snafu asked “what am I supposed ta do today?”
Grinning Burgie gestured around. “Explore, investigate, visit the stables. Take some time to get acclimated.”
Watching as Burgie left Snafu felt a little out of sorts. Finding a dresser he put his things away. Sitting on the bed he wasn’t even sure where to start. He was going to see her. That beautiful mare, Dahlia. Stepping out of the cabin he made his way to the stables, walking through the door. Row after row of stalls. Some empty, some housed, each one with a bronze plaque, clean hay. It was apparent these horses were pampered. Making his way down the row he saw her, fiery mane glinting in the light. Reaching a hand out he ran it down her neck. “Hello mon douce,” he whispered. “Ya is one beautiful horse.” Feeling her lean into his hand he scratched her ears, rubbed his nose against her face. He’d never been around horses before. It was new for him and she was so beautiful. Stepping into the stall he noticed her full belly. Reaching down he rubbed her side. “Ya gots a bébé in there don’ ya. A race winner.” She was so tall, regal. Laying his head against her back he wrapped his arm around her neck, black curls resting against her hair, fingers sliding across the coarse fur, feeling her breathing beneath his cheek he smiled. Contentment, something he’d never felt before swept through him. He felt his heart swell as he fell for that mare.
Coming into the barn Burgie automatically looked at Dahlia's stall. It wouldn’t be long before she gave birth to another winner. Seeing the dark headed man, a smile upon his face, eyes closed as he laid his head upon her back he almost didn’t want to interrupt. He had a feeling the man had lived a rough life and he felt as though he shouldn’t disrupt him. He looked genuinely open.
“She’s so easy to fall for isn’t she,” he stepped up to the stall door. “She’s our baby. She’s one we’ll never trade. Dahlia will remain here until she passes.
Startled, Snafu stepped back. “I’m..I’m sorry. I didn’t mean ta take no liberties with ya horses.”
Pulling an apple out of his pocket Burgie handed it over. “Give her this and she’ll love you for life.”
Holding his hand flat, Snafu held out the apple, excited when she nosed him, nipping it out of his hand.
Letting himself out of the stall he was rewarded with a headbutt to his shoulder. Making sure he fastened the gate behind him he looked to Burgie. He had no idea what he was supposed to do here and assumed Burgie would tell him.
“You’ll mostly be helping with stall care, exercising horses, whatever little jobs my dad comes up with. I’ll introduce you to Bill later. He’s working on breaking a mustang that’s been a bit of trouble.”
“Got it,” Snafu nodded. “Whateva’ ya need me ta do I’m ready.”
“Well come along with me and I’ll give you the lay of the land. We’ve got twenty employees that work out here. We’ve had two triple crown winners, both of which came from Dahlia. We expect a certain level of hard work and professionalism. We don’t just race horses, we raise them and sell them too.” Striding across towards another barn they went inside. “This barn houses the horses that still need to be broken in. I wouldn’t be going into their stalls. Bill takes care of them.”
Following all over the ranch Snafu was feeling a little overwhelmed. Where exactly did he fall into this plan?
Entering a small building a smile broke out over his face.
“These are our colts, possible race winners.” Pointing to a more ornate barn Burgie uttered “that's were the kings and queens live, lovingly taken care of beyond belief, worth their weight in gold.”
So those were the big winners, retired. They had already paid their way.
“I ain’t neva’ been around nothin’ like this, Burgie. I’m a good worker and I’ll do whateva’ ya ask. Ya need ta jus’ point me in the right direction.”
“I know Snafu. My dad can always sniff out someone that’ll fit on our farm. You’ll become one of us, just give it time. I think today we’ll start you out with cleaning the colts’ stables. We’re very particular that they are cleaned and replenished with hay daily.” Walking past a few colts he reached out patting one on the neck. “I’ll show you their food. They can have carrots as treats, but that’s it.” Leading him through the barn he showed Snafu how to harness and clip the colts so they couldn’t bolt when he cleaned the stall.
“Alright,” Burgie clapped him on the shoulder. “We’ve got fifteen. I think that will keep you busy.” Watching as Burgie walked out Snafu looked at the frolicking colts. Deciding to start with stall one he saw a plaque with Sundance imprinted upon it. Entering the stall he slipped the bridle over his face, clipping him to the hook stuck out from the board and got to work. Tirelessly working his way through the day he finally reached the last stall. Here was a black stallion and quite proud. Snafu wasn’t sure he was going to be able to get the bridle on him. After dealing with several head shakes he finally got it fastened and cleaned his stall. Once through he went around and made sure everyone had water and food. It had been a long day, but he’d never enjoyed work more. Walking out of the barn he met up with Burgie.
“Hey, we’re going down to the lake to have a beer. You want to come?”
Grinning, Snafu shook the hay off his shirt. “I’m a bit o’ a mess,” he laughed.
Chuckling Burgie replied “go get a shower. Bill will bring you.”
“Gotcha,” he smiled, turning to walk towards his cabin. Coming inside he heard the shower running. Grabbing some jeans and a t-shirt he waited to meet this guy Bill. Finally hearing the shower turn off he watched as a blonde, stocky man came into the room.
Standing there smiling he announced “so you must be Snafu. Good to meet you, man. I’ve been staying here by myself for a while. It’ll be nice to have a roommate.”
Trying to be friendly, Snafu smiled back. “Tis’ good ta meet ya.” Grabbing some clothes he stood. “Burgie said somethin’ about gettin’ some beers so’s I betta’ get a shower.”
“Oh yeah” Bill grinned. “That’s a nightly occurrence. Get cleaned up and we’ll go.”
Going into the tiny bathroom Snafu washed the dirt and dust off of himself. So far things were working out great. To think he was getting his ass kicked by his momma’s husband a year ago to having a home on a ranch was mind boggling. He was not going to fuck this up. Coming out of the bathroom dressed in clean clothes, hair combed he saw Bill sitting out at a table just past the front door smoking. Walking outside he sat down in the other chair and had a smoke. “So how long ya been here?” He asked.
Watching as the other man blew out smoke rings Bill responded “four years.” Twisting the cap off a beer he offered one to Snafu. “Let me guess, they put you in charge of the colts?”
Taking the offered beer Snafu nodded his head. “That little black one is a spitfire.”
“Oh he’ll be a winner for sure,” Bill nodded. He’s got the drive.”
Just curious, because he felt such a connection he asked “Is he Dahlia’s?”
“Nope,” Bill shook his head. “He belongs to Surrender.”
“I don’ guess I saw her today,” Snafu stubbed his cigarette out.
“She’s a mean ole bitch,” Bill scowled. “I don’t like working with her. I prefer the mustangs. Are you ready to go?”
Standing Snafu grasped his beer. “Lead the way,” he gestured. Walking along behind the cabin they passed tangled honeysuckle climbing up the limbs of tall trees, birds chirping, the sound of a frog croaking as dusk drew near. Snafu soon saw the flames of a flickering fire. Coming into the clearing there were several men milling about. Deciding to have a seat on a log, Snafu just watched the antics around him. There were several men well on their way to becoming drunk. Seeing Burgie coming over he smiled as he sat down.
“So how did everything go today?” He asked, tipping his beer up.
“It all went well. Some of them colts is cantankerous, but I can do the job.”
“Oh I’m certain of that,” Burgie nodded. He was curious about Snafu. There was something about him that seemed secretive. “Where are you from?”
Shooting him a side-eyed glance Snafu replied. “Am from New Orleans. Tis’ a beautiful city, but I was ready to leave.” And that was all he was going to tell. No sense in bringing up shit that was over and done with.
“I’ve been there a few times,” Burgie nodded his head. “We’ve traded horses there before.” So it was New Orleans Burgie thought. A lovely city in parts, but shady in other areas. Burgie had a feeling that Snafu came from a shadier part. Deciding not to pry Burgie asked “So how do you like everything so far? Do you think you’ll enjoy working here?”
Would he enjoy working here? Such an understatement. Of course he would. “I’m good,” he mumbled. “This works for me.”
“You know Dahlia is due anytime.” Knowing the connection he saw between Snafu and Dahlia he threw out. “If you have time you might want to check on her at night before you go to sleep. There’s a phone in the barn that rings to the main house if you think she’s in labor.”
Looking at him with big eyes Snafu sputtered “ya would trust me ta do that?” Such an important responsibility and one he would gladly take on.
Grasping Snafu’s knee Burgie assured “after seeing you with her today I’d trust you with her life.”
Reeling Snafu was having a hard time understanding someone’s complete and utter faith in him.
“I’ll check her every night fore’ I go ta bed,” he promised. “She is my girl.” Liquor making his lips loose he looked at Burgie glassily. “I ain’t never had somethin’ pick me.”
That’s what Burgie thought. He didn’t know for sure, but when he saw the open abandonment on Snafu’s face as his cheek rose and fell with Dahlia’s breaths he knew Snafu was alone. If a horse could do that for him, so be it.
They spent the evening drinking and he met more men on the ranch. Soon it was time to head back to the cabins. Remembering Burgie’s words he threw out to Bill as they came into the cabin. “I’m gonna go check on Dahlia. Jus’ ta make sure she’s okay.”
“Do whatever you want,” Bill kicked his boots off. I’m going to bed.”
Walking across the lawn Snafu entered the barn, walking down to his sweetheart. She was laying upon the floor, breaths even.
“Hello, mon douce,” he whispered, coming into the stall. “Ya doin’ okay?”
Unbeknownst to him Burgie happened to be in the barn. He knew he shouldn’t listen, but Snafu treated her so sweetly, he couldn’t help it.
Sitting down in the hay next to the heaving horse he stretched a hand out to rub her side, feeling a little kick. She was so pregnant. That colt was coming soon. Scooting closer he rubbed her side. “You’s a beautiful girl ma fille.” Seeing her sides heaving he inched a little closer. “I don’ know if it’s time for the bébé ta come yet. I ain’t neva’ had nothin’ close ta me like you.” Rubbing her side he heard her whinney. “Is he comin’ tonight, mon amour? I don’ know nothin’ about this. I ain’t neva’ had no animals,” he murmured. “I couldn’ take care o’ them at my hell of a house.”
So Burgie’s assumptions were correct. Snafu had probably had a difficult childhood. There was no way anyone had ever given Snafu love like he was giving Dahlia. He could see it on his face, the fear in his eyes. He wanted to take care of her, be with her, not leave her alone.
Burgie was fairly certain the foal was coming tonight. Watching as Snafu massaged her belly, placed a sweet kiss to her neck he knew Snafu belonged with them.
Coming through the stall he looked into startled eyes.
“I don’ know what I’m doin’ Burgie. Is she in labor?” His eyes were wide, hand continuously rubbing her belly.
Burgie had been through many births, but felt it was imperative that Snafu stay for this one. Dahlia was his connection to the ranch and he felt she was very important to Snafu. He needed to see the miracle that came forth.
“You stay up there by her head and comfort her,” Burgie directed.
Moving up, Snafu laid her head in his lap. “Ya gonna be a great momma.” Hearing her sniffing his heart hurt. “Twill’ be okay mon amour. It will be here before ya know it.” Rubbing his hands down her neck, up her ears his heart squeezed. He could see the pain in those eyes.
Looking down Burgie could see the head coming through. Slipping his hands inside he helped to ease the wee colt out of his momma’s body. Looking up, all he could see was Snafu’s heartfelt look. He’d witnessed something he’d never seen before. New life, from something he loved.
Feeling Dahlia move from his lap he watched as she greeted the new foal. “We gots ta get her clean hay,” came spewing out of his mouth. She can’t lay in that.”
“We will, Snaf. We just need to give them a bit of time. Let them love on each other. Let the momma bond. I’ve been doing this for years. Dahlia will be fine. This is nothing new for her.”
“You sure?” Snafu asked, eyes wide. “That hay is bloody. I don’ want her layin’ in that and the bébé needs clean hay too.”
Looking at what he was fastly considering a good friend he murmured “give them about a half an hour together and then we’ll clean it out.
Still looking, Snafu frowned. “But it’s bloody, Burgie. She’s gonna get all dirty.”
Rising from the colt and momma, Burgie shook Snafu by the shoulder. I’ve been doing this a long time. I know you love her. I know you want them to be safe. Watch,” he pointed into the stall.
Snafu took in his mare. She was gently licking the small colt, close to it, whether the hay was dirty or not. The foal was nursing and mother and baby were fine.
Making a decision Burgie asked “what are we going to name her?”
Still flummoxed, Snafu asked “what do you mean?”
“I mean, what are you going to name her?” He almost giggled at Snafu’s stunned look.
“Ya mean, ya want me ta name her?” He asked, somewhat baffled.
“Yes,” Burgie replied. “I do.”
Looking at the chestnut colt, white stripes on her feet all he could mutter was “Chérie. Her name is Chérie.”
Spending the rest of the night getting the momma and baby settled, dawn was soon rising.
“Get some sleep,” Burgie slapped Snafu on the back. “I’ll have Dirk take over your duties for the day.”
Thinking of the colts he’d taken care of Snafu had to ask. “Ya ain’t gonna take Chérie and put her with the otha’ colts are ya?”
“No,” Burgie reassured. “She’ll be with her momma.”
Nodding his head, Snafu headed off to bed.
The days and nights went on with normalcy. Snafu tended the colts, checked in on momma and baby. Everything was going great. That was until Burgie’s dad hired a new accountant.
Rucking out hay in the colts’ stalls Snafu was well used to which ones were finicky, which ones were sweet. He’d figured them all out. It was as he was coming out of the barn that he first saw the red haired man. His hair was the same color as Dahlia’s, lit up like fire in the rays of the sun. He felt a bit of a catch in his chest. Shaking it off he continued finishing up his duties, surprised when Burgie brought him over.
“Hey,” he called out as Snafu was checking the food in a colt’s stall. “I just thought I’d introduce you to our new accountant, Eugene Sledge.”
Snafu felt a bit of a bump, but kept it under control. “Hey there, Sledge.” He grinned. “Welcome ta the ranch.”
“Hello,” Eugene replied. Watching as Snafu tried to clip the prancing ebony horse he chuckled. “It seems like this one is giving you some trouble.”
Struggling Snafu finally got it snapped. “This here is Firelight and he always gives me difficulties. He’s spirited and doesn’t like the loss of freedom.” Snafu's heart thumped when he’d seen the smile cross Eugene’s face. Gorgeous, he thought. This was one man that he wanted to know better.
“We’re going to head back up to the house so I can get Sledge settled into his room. We’ll see you later at the bonfire?”
“Yeah, I’ll be there. Good ta meet ya Sledge,” he muttered. Deciding to be forward he threw him a dangerous grin. “I’ll see ya later.” He was going to make a point to weasel his way into Sledge’s life. There was just something there.
Watching as they walked away Snafu got back to work. He was going to spend every extra moment trying to win Sledge over. Closing up the barn he strode off back towards his cabin.