Admittedly, I thought I was doing pretty well at the time. I had a queen-size mattress on my bedroom floor, I had a small couch that someone gave to m...e , a 20" TV, an old VCR that loaded from the top, and several porn videos. I only ate food from the restaurant I worked at...which I got for free. I'd work 8-10 hrs a day, 6 days a week. I didn't eat on my days off to save money. I was a skinny k** back then, 5'10" 115lbs. I didn't cut my light blonde hair so it was half way down my back. I wore. If he was still at the ranch when I got back, then I'd know that he was a good one. I smelled of horse piss, and my face was cut some and sore, and my hands both hurt. If it hadn't been for the respect I'd lose from my hands, I'd have turned back and delayed my trip.I got over to Uncle Charlie's before sun down, and had to let Aunt Persis fuss all over me about the damages that Danny had done. Uncle Charlie and I went out for a few drinks after dinner, but only after Aunt Persis had made sure. The thugs need to go through the Coroner’s Court fast, with a simple ruling of Death by Misadventure While Committing a Crime. We don’t want any locals involved at all.”“It’s not going to happen that way. I know it would be best, but the Commander is after a promotion so he won’t wash this away. Not when he has a chance to get into the troubles there hard.”“You’re sure I won’t be able to convince him otherwise?” Ingham nods his head yes. “Damn. Greta, please pass me my wallet. Liz, can you see. “What breed is your kid?” Armand asked brightly.“Golden retriever,” Carter answered promptly.“Ah, a family dog,” Armand nodded. “Mine’s a pitbull,” he added with a small satisfied smile.Wow, talking about dangerous! Carter looked at Armand in awe, and probably a little frightened.“Ah, don’t worry,” Armand waved. “They’re the most misunderstood breed. Brute is an angel, really.”Brute? Wow, that dog certainly had to be an angel.“Then let’s not hold you more than it’s needed, dear,” Armand smiled.