text:
Title: Dissatisfaction
Fandom: Wild Wild West
Pairing: Jim/Artie
Feedback: justblackchaps at yahoo dot com
Rating: NC-17
Summary: Jim is unhappy and takes a small vacation away from Artemus. This is a parody of Deadwood. No infringement intended, just having some fun.
Disclaimer: All this belongs to CBS.
Jim put his brandy snifter down, shoved his hands in his waistband, and strolled to the back door to look out. His suspenders threatened to break, but they'd hold. He stared out at the track that dropped away and thought of nothing.
"What's wrong?"
Jim didn't turn. "Nothing."
"Give me some credit. You've been moping around here for two days. Got spring fever?" Artemus laughed. "Or just fever for a woman?"
"Nothing is wrong." Jim refused to believe it. He had everything: good food, good friend, travel, plenty of women, and a job that paid. It was more than most men had in this big country. Most men had damn little and were grateful for it. Plenty of folks had it tough since the war. He turned enough to see his partner. "New Orleans, huh?"
"For one week of well-deserved vacation. I can't wait!" Artemus was happy, and Jim was happy to see it.
"It has been a while." Jim wasn't sure how long, but they'd been out West for months, putting out one fire or another.
"Nearly two years!" Artemus' brown eyes glowed with excitement. "The women, the theatre, the food - it's going to be great."
Jim nodded his head obediently, but that same sense of excitement wasn't inside him. He wasn't sure he cared. More women, more good food, and shows he'd seen. "I'm going back to the horses."
"I think I've been insulted." Artemus picked up his book. Jim didn't believe that, and he strolled down the hallway. He checked in with the pigeons - they were fine, and he went on to the stateroom. The big, brass bed had been made. Artemus had done it - again. Jim smiled and went on out to his horse. The wind whipped at him when he crossed cars, and he shut the door firmly. His horse snorted at him, and he picked up a brush.
"Hey, fella," Jim whispered as he moved the brush over the big, black gelding with gentle strokes. "Bored?"
The horse snorted in what Jim imagined was agreement, and he realized that he felt much the same. Bored, complacent, dissatisfied, and his mother would have said whiny. He laughed softly and felt down the gelding's legs. The horse was sound as a dollar bill. Jim glanced over at the empty stall and sighed. Artemus' horse had been shot on the last assignment. Shot dead. It was a damn shame. Jim had liked the grey gelding. But, the bullet had missed Artemus by a hair's breadth. Jim had panicked when the horse had gone down. He'd thought they were both dead, but Artemus had gotten up, bruised, but fine. They'd agreed to buy a new horse in New Orleans.
Jim sighed. "What's wrong with me?" The gelding didn't answer. He rarely did. Jim got him a small scoop of oats as a treat and went back to the parlor car. He washed his hands in the lavatory and scrubbed his face with his wet hands.
"You okay?"
"Sure. I've got everything a man could want." Jim tried to smile. "I guess I'm still tired."
"It was a rough assignment." Artemus put a gentle hand on Jim's shoulder. "Why don't you go rest?"
Jim shrugged. "Okay." He followed Artemus through the hallway, but he went in the stateroom. Kicking off his boots, he stretched out on the brass bed. He shut his eyes.
The sound was loud in Jim's ear. How he'd heard it over fifteen other shots was hard to tell, but he had. The grey gelding reared straight up and dropped straight down. Jim threw himself off his horse and ran through a hail of bullets. "Artie!"
Jim jerked awake. He wiped the sweat from his forehead and stretched. He'd sleep later. Maybe. The train began to slow; it was a wood and water stop - somewhere in Georgia. He got up, put on his boots, and went to the parlor.
Artemus looked up. "Couldn't sleep?"
"Artie, would you mind if I didn't accompany you to New Orleans?" Jim asked quietly.
"What? And miss all the fun?" Artemus shook his head. "Come on, Jim!"
Jim looked outside. The sun was shining. "I can't. Pick me up here in nine days."
"Here? But, this is nowhere!" Artemus' brown eyes were wide. "You can't be serious!"
Jim nodded. He needed to be nowhere for a few days and maybe nobody as well. Trotting up front, he told Casey, who shrugged. Jim hurried back, packed no clothes, just a few necessities, and money before going to the stable car. His gelding stomped when Jim dropped the ramp. "I agree. Let's go."
"It won't be the same without you," Artemus said. "Reconsider."
"Thanks, but I need something different. I 'm as stale as week-old bread." Jim smiled. "Don't forget me."
"I won't. Just be here. Don't make me track you down."
"Don't worry." Jim took his horse out and was up in the saddle fast. He should've looked back and waved, but he put his heels in tight and rode away. Artemus would have fun in New Orleans. He didn't need Jim hanging around. Jim pushed the gelding faster down the trail. They had nowhere to go, but they'd get there fast, and it felt good to be going.
Dogweed - Population 307
Jim stopped to read the sign. Well, he was somewhere now, and he took his horse into town. They'd each get a drink, and he let the gelding slurp up some water before walking him down to the saloon. He made sure his horse was in the shade before going inside. No one gave him a second look, and it was nice. He leaned against the bar. "Whiskey."
The bartender poured him one, and Jim put down a dollar before emptying it. The bartender refilled it instantly. Jim sipped this one as his dollar was swept away. He turned to look the place over. Same saloon he'd seen in a hundred or more towns and probably the same people lived here. He smiled.
"Something funny?"
Jim shrugged. "Nice town."
"Cocksucker." The young man glared at him and staggered away. Jim made sure his jaw didn't drop open in shock. Now that was something a person didn't hear very often.
"Get on home, Jed! This man has money!" The bartender yelled. "Go fuck yer wife!"
Jim drank the rest of his whiskey and fished out another dollar. He put it down and waited for his refill. "Nice town."
"Full of sluts, cocksuckers, and drunks," the bartender said. Jim couldn't help but wonder if the man was agreeing or not. He refused to think about it as he drank his whiskey. A shout above his head made him look, and he went for his gun. A man hit the railing hard, flipped over it, and landed on a table below with a crack. No one even looked up. The bartender sighed. "God damn pricks."
"Aren't you going to help him?"
"His wife'll be along to get him. He shouldn't have been trying to fuck around with Mary Jo." The bartender gave him a hard look. "If I were you, I'd stay out of it."
"Sound advice." Jim settled his gun back in his holster and finished number three. "Fill it."
The bartender did and moved away. Jim watched as the barkeep threw the man off the table and onto the floor. Now that was sturdy furniture.
"And stay off, fucker."
Jim chuckled.
"Something funny?"
Jim turned and faced Jed, the drunk, again. "No. Weren't you supposed to go home?"
"I'll get to her later. You shure are a pretty cocksucker. Fancy clothes." Jed swayed. "Staying long?"
"Can't say. Just got here." Jim pushed his empty glass away. He stepped around Jed and went out the swinging door. That saloon wasn't like all the others. He stopped at his horse and took a hard look around.
"Hey, you!"
Jim didn't look. It couldn't be him. It couldn't.
"You, the fucker in blue, look at me when I'm talking to you!"
"Can I help you?" Jim didn't smile.
A blond-headed man frowned at him. "Shit!" And he strode away.
Jim rubbed his forehead. Was he in a town full of crazy people? He swung into the saddle, and they ambled down the street to the general store. Since he was here, he'd get some jerky. Dismounting, he tied his horse and stepped up to the boardwalk. He could see his reflection in the glass, and he stopped. His clothes were, perhaps, a little fancier than most folks wore, at least around here.
"Yep, yer purty. Now move along, asshole."
Jim whipped around. It was the sheriff. "Sorry. I was thinking I need some new clothes."
"Don't give a damn. Quit blocking the boardwalk!"
Jim went in the general store. He rubbed a hand across his mouth. This was the filthiest talking town he'd ever been in - ever.
"Can I help you?"
Jim waited to be called a cocksucker, but it didn't happen. "Some jerky?"
"Sure." The clerk took him back through the store. "A penny a strip. It's deer, not cow." He smiled.
"Aren't you going to call me a dirty name?"
"Nope. Name's Ned." Ned smiled.
"Jed's brother?" Jim picked up some jerky.
"Yup." Ned seemed much nicer than Jed did. "Bag for that?"
"Please." Jim handed him about twenty strips of jerky. "I'm going to look around."
"Sure. Holler if you need anything." Ned strolled away.
Jim looked up and down the aisles. He wasn't sure what he was looking for.
"Need help?"
"Who are you?"
"Sam." Sam smiled. "Ned and I own this place."
"And you don't curse either." Jim observed. "I want some new clothes, but have no idea what."
Sam nodded. "I don't curse at the customers. Here, take a look at these Levi's."
"What?" Jim took a hold of the waist coveralls. They were sturdy work pants, not anywhere near respectable, but they were blue. "No bib. Why?"
"They're new. A man can work in them and not worry about dirt and such, but still put a coat over them. Dollar fifty." Sam pointed at Jim's hat. "I'll trade you for your hat and throw in one of ours."
Jim stared at him. "First, why did Jed call me a cocksucker?"
Sam groaned. "Hang on. I need to tell Ned that Jed is drunk again." He hurried off. Jim laughed softly. He looked at the clothes again. It might be fun to pretend to be someone else. Artemus did it all the time. Jim picked out a rough shirt, Levi's, and a worn straw hat. He was going to look awful. It should be interesting.
"Okay. Back to business." Sam laughed. "That Jed."
"He's a character. Got a place I can change?" Jim held out the clothes.
Sam looked surprised. "Come on in back. I won't even charge you extra." He laughed, and Jim joined him. There were living quarters through a back door, and Sam showed him a bedroom. "Change here."
"Thanks." Jim tossed Sam the hat. "Here."
"I like it." Sam put it on fast. "Don't tell Ned you were back here. He don't like folk in our bedroom."
"Sure." Jim pulled off his coat. "You're leaving? Right?"
"Why?" Sam went to the mirror and looked at his new hat.
Jim shrugged and changed clothes. He considered leaving on his underclothes, but impulsively took them off. The rough cloth felt strange against his skin, but it felt good to do something different. He tucked in his shirt, buckled on his gun, and asked, "How do I look?"
Sam bit his lower lip. "Still handsome, but poor now."
"Sam!" Ned came barging through the door. "Shit! You cocksucker!" He launched a fist at Jim's face. Jim was always ready, and he moved enough to take most of the sting out of it.
Sam jumped between them. "He was just changing his clothes! Stop it!"
Ned breathed hard. "You didn't touch him?"
Jim watched in amazement. He was a stranger among the strangest people in the United States.
"No. He's too pretty for me." Sam laughed. "I traded for his hat!"
Ned wiped his mouth. "You touch him?"
"Hell no!" Jim rarely cursed, but it burst out of him. "If you two don't mind, I'll pay my bill and be on my way."
Sam nodded. "Come on."
Ned grabbed Sam's arm. "You'll be mine later."
Jim got out of the bedroom fast, abandoning his clothes, and if Sam took a while to stroll out to the cash register, it didn't matter, not one bit. Jim didn't even notice the silly smile on Sam's face.
"That's three dollars. Oh, and go get yer clothes."
"Keep them." Jim tossed down a dollar, grabbed his bag of jerky, and went to the sanity of his horse. "These people are all crazy."
His gelding nodded and pawed the ground. Jim put the jerky in a saddlebag. He did look in the glass again, and he did look stupid, but it was fine.
"Move out of the way, cocksucker."
Jim skipped down to his horse and got in the saddle. Didn't these people know any other curse words? They walked down Main Street, careful to avoid wagons, and Jim eyed the hotel. It would be dark in another hour. He took his horse over to the stable and dismounted.
"Got any money?"
Jim was relieved not to be called a filthy name. "Yes. How much is the hotel?"
"Don't matter. He ain't gonna let a bumpkin like you have a room," the stable master said and laughed. "Stupid fucker."
"Listen, you cocksucker, I've about had it!" Jim couldn't believe he'd said that. He was totally appalled with himself. "I apologize. It's nearing dark, and I'd thought to move on tonight."
The stable master looked him up and down. "I need a stable hand. Pays fifty cents a day. And no cursing around the customers."
Jim ripped off his hat and slapped his Levi's with it. A job, huh? He didn't want to mess with camping tonight. "My horse is free."
"Deal, but no oats unless you buy them!" The stable master nodded. "Name's Darren Shore. You?"
"Bob Crandall." Jim didn't extend his hand. "I don't curse."
"Right, cocksucker." Darren strolled back in the stable. Jim dragged his horse along behind him. Why hadn't he ridden on? Was he crazy? He found a roomy stall for his horse and took his time to make him comfortable. Darren leaned against a post and watched. "I knew you'd make a good hand. Nice horse."
"Thanks. Don't touch him." Jim gave his gelding a final swipe. "Where am I bunking?"
Darren pointed up. "First, muck the stalls and make sure all the horses have clean water and hay."
Jim hadn't been ordered to do that since he was a private in the army. He didn't answer because he wasn't sure he'd do it. Riding away looked attractive. Darren tossed him a pitchfork, and Jim caught it without trying. "I could go to the hotel."
"My brother won't let you in, but give it a try." Darren laughed and walked away. "Get them all!"
Jim wanted to curse, but it would be rude, and anyway, he needed a change. The job matched the clothes, and he might have a good time. It was possible. He unbuckled his gun, stowed it in his saddlebags, stuck some jerky in his mouth, and went to work. After the second stall, he smiled at a white mare and looked her over. Fine horse, not big enough for Artemus, but nicely built.
"Don't get any ideas. That's my mare."
Jim leaned against his pitchfork and said, "I was admiring her. I don't want her."
Darren gave her a pat. "Good. She belonged to my wife." He shrugged. "Wife's gone now."
"Sorry about that." Jim went back to work. "Small pox?"
"Ran off with the fucker that ran the barber shop! Slut." Darren moved out of the stall. "After you finish, we'll go get dinner."
"Good idea." Jim's stomach grumbled. He didn't comment again on the wife. Nothing in this town was as it should be. Darren wandered off, and Jim stayed busy. It was mindless work, and he found that he was relaxing, completely, for the first time in months. He murmured softly to the horses and took the time to stroke each of them as he did the chores. It was the last horse that made him stop and think, and he tracked down Darren in the feed room. "Is the big gelding in the last stall for sale?"
"Got any money?"
"Probably." Jim didn't want to be robbed. "I have a friend who needs a nice horse."
"He's a good ride. One hundred dollars."
"Seventy-five. He's at least six." Jim shook his head. "And that's generous."
Darren grinned. "Deal, but you have to pay for oats while you're here."
Jim sighed. Darren was a skinflint. "Shake on it." They shook hands. "I'm done, and I'll need to send a telegram."
"S'okay." Darren shrugged. He walked with Jim through the stable. "You did a good job, better than my last stable boy."
"Was he a cocksucker?" Jim rubbed his hand through his hair. Had he said that?
"Definitely." Darren laughed. "I kinda like you. Dinner's at my ma's house."
Jim grabbed his hat and followed. He was hungry, and he stopped at the horse trough to wash off, rolling up his sleeves to do a competent job. For a moment, he wished he had his nicer clothes, but he was in disguise. He did wash his face.
"Come on. You're clean enough." Darren didn't bother to wash.
Jim nodded and trailed after him to a little white house on a corner. Picket fence, big tree, perfect little house, and if she didn't call him a cocksucker, Jim would be surprised. He'd send his telegram after dinner.
Darren put his hand on Jim's arm. "Mind yer manners now."
Jim smiled, and the door opened. Darren's ma was drying her hands with a kitchen towel. "Darren, have you gone the way of Ned and Sam?"
Jim took off his hat. Darren pushed him aside. "Hell no, Ma. He's my new stable hand!"
"Last one stole the silverware!"
"This one is polite. He washed his hands!"
Jim doubted his face could get any redder. He looked at his boots. "Ma'am, I won't steal anything."
She looked him over with narrowed eyes. "Well, he's handsome. Bring him in."
Darren hitched up his pants and pushed the door open wider. Jim ducked his head and smiled. She led the way to the kitchen table. Darren wasted no time in finding a spot at the table. Jim sat down more slowly.
"Thank you, ma'am."
"He's so polite that he's got to be a murderer." She started thumping food down on the plates.
Jim put his napkin in his lap. He made up his mind not to talk. He'd listen. Darren and his ma kept up a steady stream of gossip and complaints. She did curse, and Jim made sure he didn't choke on his food, but he did learn something about just about everyone in town.
"You staying long, pretty boy?"
"I don't think so, ma'am." Jim wiped his mouth. "I'll earn a little money and move on."
Darren shrugged and started in on Ned and Sam again. He wasn't upset that they were a pair, he was mad that they'd raised the price of grain. Jim cleaned his plate before speaking again. "Dinner was excellent. If you'll excuse me, I have to send a telegram."
"Thanks, and go on." She didn't smile.
Jim had wasted his charm, but he still smiled, put his napkin on his plate, and said, "Darren, I'll be over at the barn later."
"Better not be drunk!"
Jim didn't answer. He went out the front door, sagged against it for a minute, and rubbed his face. It was a damn shame that Artemus wasn't here. They'd have so much to talk about. Jim walked briskly down Main Street until he found the telegraph office. Two bits bought him fifteen words, and he wrote, Found you a horse stop Will meet you at rail stop Enjoy New Orleans stop Jim
The telegraph officer scowled, but sent it off, and Jim listened to make sure it was done right, and he hung around to wait for an answer. It wouldn't be long. Artemus was still traveling. He'd get to New Orleans tomorrow night. Jim sat down in an empty chair and twirled his straw hat. His clothes still felt different, but they'd hold up better if he were going to be a stable hand for a day or two. The telegraph started clacking, and he listened closely. Good stop Artemus stop Short and to the point. Artemus might be a little angry. Jim sighed. He hated that.
"Here's your reply, mister."
Jim took it. "Thanks." He folded it and put it in his pocket. There was no reason not to visit the saloon and talk to Jed, so he strolled down there. The bartender looked at him twice. "You still have money?"
"Sure do." Jim slapped a dollar on the bar. Clothes do make the man. He took a sip, leaned, and put his hat down. "Dancing girls?"
"In yer dreams, but I'll see if I can get Jed to dance fer ya!" The bartender went off laughing.
Jim rubbed his forehead. "No wonder everyone cusses in this town," he muttered.
Sam and Ned came in the door. They had eyes only for each other. Jim watched the crowd, but no one gave a damn. It was a mystery. Where were the morals? Where was the scorn? He had no idea. Artemus would laugh his head off. Artemus. Why wasn't he here? Jim finished his first drink quickly, and the bartender topped it off.
"Hey, a stranger."
Jim flinched as Jed put an arm around him. "Off."
Jed swayed and laughed. "Don't get pissy with me, cocksucker! I'll kick your ass!"
"I doubt it." Jim removed the offending arm. "We met earlier. You're still drunk."
"I'd remember a farm hand such as yerself." Jed smiled. "Want me to dance?"
Jim took his whiskey to a table. He thumped down and glared at Jed, who staggered over to harass his brother. Good enough. Jim sipped his drink. Why had he left the train? New Orleans was always fun, and this town had nothing. Nothing. It was . . . different. No one knew him, and no one cared, and there was nothing to do and nowhere to go. Different. He was tired of the scheduling. Go here. Go there. Laugh at this. Say that. And no one had ever called him a cocksucker.
"Hey, farm boy. Got any money?"
Jim automatically smiled. She took his lap instantly, and she was an ample woman. His knee creaked, and he made sure she didn't spill out on the floor. She was more than an armful or two. Jim squeezed her leg. "No. No money. Can we work out a trade?"
She was gone so fast that Jim had to stifle a laugh. He had to smell of horse. Jim finished his whiskey and called it a night. He went out the door. It was nice to walk out, instead of being thrown out, and he strolled back towards the stable. The night was cool and breezy, and there were the small noises of a town. He leaned against the wall of the general store to enjoy it. Was he crazy? Maybe so. The shadow he'd sunk into hid him, and Ned and Sam never saw him as they headed towards home. Once, they stopped, Ned shoved Sam roughly against the wall. Jim tensed and nearly stepped from the shadow to go help, but Ned began mauling Sam, and Sam, from the moans, loved every minute of it. Jim told himself to look away, but he didn't.
"I don't cotton to men who skulk in the shadows, spying on others."
Jim swallowed hard and turned to face the sheriff. The sheriff had come up the alley so quietly that Jim hadn't heard him, which was inexcusable, but he had been distracted by all the groaning and groping.
"Sorry, Sheriff. I've never seen anything like it."
"Never? None of these towns has enough women. Hell, out West there's more of it! You've just been closing yer eyes." The sheriff laughed. "Fool. Go on. Before I arrest you for loitering."
"I'll do that." Jim went to tug down his vest, but his hand met his rough shirt, and he went away quickly and didn't stop until he was in the barn with his horse. The gelding swung his head and gave him a nudge. Jim ran his hands down the sleek hide. "I knew. I just hadn't seen it."
The horse snorted, but what did he know, he was a gelding.
Artemus leaned against the stall door. "James my boy, don't be so thick-skulled. You knew. You've seen."
Jim rubbed his eyes. Artemus was not there and never had been. Jim looked at his horse. "Did you see that?"
The gelding cocked a hoof and lowered his head. He was going to sleep. Jim picked up his saddlebags and went up into the loft. There was even a cot up here. It wasn't too bad. A blanket, the good smell of hay, and, wait. Jim looked to his right. "Darren, you're sneaking up on the wrong guy."
Darren stepped into what little light there was. "Really?"
Jim put his saddlebags down by the bunk. "This is fine up here."
"I've seen worse." Darren smiled. "My wife's been gone a long time."
"And?" Jim put his hands on his hips. Images of Ned and Sam jumped up at him, and Artemus smirked in his knowing way.
Darren touched his lips with his finger. "Never hurts to ask a man if he's willing."
Jim growled, "I'm not. Let me sleep."
"I'll set the bell, so if'n anyone comes late, you'll hear." Darren turned away. "Never hurts to ask."
Jim sat down on his bunk and listened to Darren leave the loft. He wasn't willing, and it did hurt to ask. It would hurt to ask. He fumbled for some jerky, put his gun under his pillow, and pushed off his boots. He lay back flat, sucked, and thought about it. Had he seen? He let his mind ramble back and forth, and one picture popped up. Artemus, having dinner on the train, with a lawyer by the name of Daniel Shaw. Jim remembered it clearly. He'd interrupted, and they'd both seemed . . . unsettled. They were old friends. He chewed his jerky harder. What had he done? Oh, he'd gone to bed and heard nothing, and it meant nothing. Artemus had many friends, and he dined with - Jim's train of thought derailed - women on the Wanderer, just women, except for Daniel.
"Is it even remotely possible?" Jim cupped his cock and balls. He was still hard. Could he? Did he? Want a man? He released himself before he messed his clothes. Thinking back again, he realized something. Artemus had been gone the next morning and when he'd come home, he'd gone straight to bed. Jim had assumed that his partner had found a couple of ladies with Daniel. Assumptions were usually wrong.
"Shit." Jim didn't know what to think now, but he was curious to know what Artemus thought. It couldn't hurt to ask. Well, yes, it could, and it might. There had to be a way to find out without tipping his hand.
Jim startled when the bell rang, and he shoved on his boots and went to see what was going on. There was a gentleman at the door, and he needed a rig home, so Jim found a buggy, put a horse in the traces, and settled into the driver's seat. The trip was a long one, and the moon was high was he returned. The night was quiet, the horse was willing, and the wheels turned with a soft sound. Had he ever had a job? He smiled. The army didn't count. That wasn't a job. It was a way of life. He'd enlisted at age fifteen. His parents hadn't argued with him for one minute. Before that, he'd done chores and plenty of them, but a job, like this? To earn money, buy a home, find a wife, have some kids, and die quietly had never been his dream. Many men did just that, but he wasn't most men.
The town was quiet, and he halted the horse right at the door to the stable. He hopped down and went back to work. Finished, he went upstairs to his cot. This time, he slept.
Bullets whistled past Jim's ears, but all that mattered was Artemus. The grey gelding was down. "Artie!" No answer. God have mercy.
Jim blinked in the dim sunshine. His gun was in his hand, and he holstered it immediately. Where was he?
"Bob! Get your lazy, cocksucking ass down here and feed these fucking horses!"
"I'm coming!" Jim laughed softly, put some jerky in his mouth, his boots on his feet, and went downstairs. The word cocksucker had brought it all sharply into focus. The horses were hungry. First things first though, and he handed over the money from last night's rental.
Darren smiled. "This is fifty cents more than usual!"
Jim hadn't known the price, but he knew what he usually paid. "The price of grain did go up."
"I like the way you think. Now get to work!"
"Sure, you cocksucker." Jim had to say it. Darren didn't even notice. He took his money and walked off with a smile on his face. Jim started with feed. That way he could shovel without getting trampled.
Artemus Interlude
Artemus paced in front of the fireplace. He'd been in New Orleans for two days and so far, it hadn't been much fun. It was a shame to admit it, but he did.
"Artemus, you're in a fine dither tonight."
Artemus stopped moving. "Just thinking, Daniel."
Daniel came over to him. "Don't do that." He laughed and reached up to brush back Artemus' hair. It was an intimate gesture, but Artemus allowed it. They were intimate and had been for years. It wasn't serious, just diverting, when he was in town, but the years did add up. Daniel smiled. "Dinner was excellent."
"Thank you. It's Jim's favorite." Artemus blanched as soon as he said it. It would sound awful.
"Yes, dear Jim." Daniel's blue eyes hardened. "Where is the little man?"
Artemus nearly gasped at the insult. "Daniel, Jim is not little."
"He's a small thinker and half the way to being an idiot." Daniel went to his brandy and sipped it. He wasn't finished. "I had hoped that he cashiered out."
"He opted for a different vacation. That's all." Artemus' jaw clenched tight. "Don't insult him. You don't know him."
"I know you." Daniel sat down on the sofa and languidly pointed at Artemus. "You're a real man. Jim West is nothing but a dullard."
"He's four times the man you'll be on your best day, which I haven't observed yet," Artemus snarled.
Daniel laughed. His head went back, his mouth dropped open, and Artemus winced because he'd almost bedded this fop - all night long. And the fop wouldn't shut up.
"Jim can't see what's right under his nose. He's a fool. Admit it. I know you want him. Who wouldn't? That ass, in those tight, blue pants. How many nights have you lusted - in vain? It's a tragedy that's brought me a lot of laughter over the years."
Artemus' temper snapped right in half. He casually pulled a gun from the desk drawer and shot the brandy glass from Daniel's hand. The bang, the crash, the glass, and the loud gasp were satisfying in the extreme. No one insulted his partner. "The next bullet is going in your heart. I'll count to three, well, maybe I won't."
The door slammed three seconds later. Artemus put the gun away, locked the door, and surveyed the sofa. "I should've waited until he stood. That'll never come out!" He looked about the room, and his eyes fell on the telegram. Jim was somewhere called Dogweed, Georgia, and he had to be having more fun than this. Artemus made up his mind. He was going to Dogweed, right after he cleaned up this mess.
Jim didn't shave. Why should he? And he didn't bathe. He did jump in the horse trough once, and he washed up before every meal. The dirt didn't stay away. On the fifth day, he happened to look in the horse trough, and he blinked in surprise. He looked like a damn stable boy! It made him laugh.
"Yer a weird one, Bob."
"Fuck you." Jim washed his face. His hair had managed to get shaggy in a few days, or maybe it was the lack of soap. Darren muttered a few choice curses. Cursing was part of life here, and while Jim was careful not to curse at the customers, Darren didn't have that protection. Everyone cursed. Most seem to take pride in their ability to put fuck in every sentence, except Jed, he preferred cocksucker. "Lunch?"
"Shure enuff." Darren nodded. "Ma says she likes you."
Jim wasn't sure that was a good thing. She wasn't subtle or shy. Lunch was good though, and he ate plenty. Shoveling shit was hard work. Funny, he'd never noticed it before.
"Bob, you go on down to the general store and get the load of oats. I'll be along."
"Sure." Jim shrugged, wiped his mouth, and left the table. "Thank you kindly, ma'am."
"Oh, go on with you, flatterer," she simpered.
Jim smiled and made it out the door without his ass getting pinched. Yesterday, he hadn't made it. Ned and Sam were happy to see him.
"Look, Sam. It's yer other boyfriend!"
Jim rolled his eyes. Sam laughed. "He's cute, ain't he?"
"I'm here for oats. I even brought a wheelbarrow." Jim pulled out some cash. "Darren's still mad about the price increase."
"Tell that fucker to fuck off," Ned growled. "Farmers raised the price."
Jim doubted it. "Fucking liar. You just need the money to pay Jed's bar bill!"
"Who told you that?" Ned got in Jim's face. "It's a fucking lie!"
"Shit, Ned." Sam got in the mix. "Everyone knows it."
Jim nodded his head. "Cut Jed loose. His wife'll take care of him, probably cut his balls off, but, who the fuck cares?"
Sam laughed. Ned glowered. "He's my twin brother."
"The more you pay, the more he drinks." Jim gave up on them loading the oats. He threw a bag over his shoulder. "I'll load these."
"Cocksucker." Ned stalked off towards the back.
Sam opened the door for Jim. "You were right, but mean, very mean."
Jim put the oats in the wheelbarrow. "I'm a mean sonofabitch. Haven't you heard?"
"I heard you were a stupid cocksucker."
"I'm going to punch Jed right in the mouth." Jim got two bags this time. He made three more trips and paid the bill. He'd punched Jed in the face last night at the saloon, but he doubted Jed remembered it. "Thanks, Sam."
"Later, honey." Sam winked.
Jim ignored all that and took the oats to the hungry horses. The load was heavy, the street dusty, and he was dirty again by the time he go back to the stable.
Darren was waiting for him. "Got a telegram for a buggy rental. Do it."
"Shit." Jim dropped the wheelbarrow. He read the telegram once and burst out laughing. "Okay, no arguments. Let me get this put away, and I'll get on it."
"He has a private train. Don't make him wait!" Darren's eyes glittered with lust for the money.
"He can wait." Jim stowed the oats before getting the buggy ready. He got the white mare moving towards the rail line. His vacation wasn't over, so what was going on? This was a golden opportunity to find out what Artemus thought about men bedding men. It would be right on his face when he saw Ned and Sam. Any fool could see they fucked all the time. Jim smiled, even he'd noticed.
The Wanderer puffed on the tiny siding, and the cab crew was loading wood. Jim made sure his hat was low. He was in disguise. Artemus came out the door, and he looked good: brown trousers, white shirt, black tie, and a white hat. His coat was the buckskin fringe one that Jim liked.
"Good. You're here. I was beginning to think no one got my message." Artemus flipped Jim a quarter, which he caught easily. "Back to Dogweed. The faster we go, the more likely you are to get another quarter."
Jim noticed that Artemus didn't really look at him. "Sure," Jim said. He waited for a reaction, but Artemus was looking at his timepiece. Jim got the mare turned around and headed down the road. He didn't rush. The mare was pregnant, but she needed exercise. It was a nice day, and he settled back to enjoy the ride with his best friend. Why had Artemus left New Orleans? It was curious, and Jim hoped to find out, but it could wait.
Artemus alighted from the buggy as soon as Jim got the mare stopped. There was no tossed quarter. Darren came out and took the mare's head. "Bob, you fucker! I've told you not to use this horse!"
Jim got out and went around the side of the horse away from Artemus. "She needed some exercise. We went slowly."
"What's the charge, my good man?" Artemus asked Darren. Jim looked from around the horse. Artemus was ignoring him, but he had a strange look on his face. It was probably the cursing.
"One moment, sir." Darren rounded on Jim. "Put the fucking horse away, you stupid piece of shit!"
"Fuck you too," Jim snapped back. The look on Artemus' face was priceless. Stunned was a good word to describe it, but not strong enough.
Darren was angry. "Think I won't fire you?"
Jim stroked a gentle hand down the mare's neck. It was almost time to quit. "You hate shoveling shit; now take care of your customer." He led the mare away, but stayed close enough to hear.
"Don't fire the lad on my account," Artemus said. "He did a fine job."
"He's a mouthy asshole." Darren shot Jim a glare. "That'll be three dollars."
Artemus pulled his wallet out of his jacket. Jim unhooked the traces, slowly, and watched his partner pay the bill.
"I'm looking for a gentleman. He might have stabled his horse here. Brown hair, green eyes, always wears a blue suit."
"Haven't seen anyone like that," Darren said. "Try the general store or the saloon." He grasped the money eagerly. "If you need to rent a horse, my boy there will saddle you up a good one."
Artemus seemed to think about it. "First, I'll take a look around."
"We'll be here." Darren smiled. Jim got back to work. The white mare was in good condition. Darren shouldn't worry so much. Artemus went off down the street, and Jim wanted to follow him. Jim rushed through the job. Darren strutted up to him when he was about finished. "What's yer hurry?"
"I'm going to take a break." Jim shoved the buggy back where it went. "Right now."
"Fuck that." Darren shook his head. "My mare will need a good brushing."
"She's fine." Jim made sure he had money. "I'll be back."
"Leave and you're fired, you cocksucker."
Jim was heartily tired of hearing that. It was overdone, really. "Good." He put his hands on his hips. "I'll be back for my horse."
Darren stalked off. He wasn't a bad guy; it was just time to move on. Jim went out the door in a hurry. Artemus was in the saloon, and Jim slipped in the door quietly and took up a spot on the opposite end of the bar. The barkeep got him his usual.
"Fucker down there is asking questions about a fellow that wears a blue suit. Says he'll pay for answers."
"Better tell Jed," Jim suggested. "He always needs cash."
The barkeep laughed. "Good idea." He went off to find Jed, and Jim nursed his whiskey. Artemus shot him a look once, but made no move. Jim had a hard time believing that his disguise was that good. Perhaps Artemus was being tricky. He was like that. Jed came barreling out of the back, heading straight for Artemus, and Jim tried to control his smile.
"So you need information, huh?" Jed was remarkably polite.
Artemus nodded. "I need to find a man. Brown hair, about this tall, rides a black horse, and always wears a blue suit."
Jed searched his whiskey-soaked brain. Jim wanted to fall over laughing. Jed frowned and said, "Well, shit. I did see some cocksucker in blue, but he didn't stay long."
Artemus' fist hit Jed squarely in the jaw. Jim moved fast. His partner never lost his temper. What was going on? Jed started yelling, and Artemus growled, "You have a filthy mouth, but keep it off my partner!"
Jim couldn't imagine what had sparked all that. He grabbed a good hold on Jed and hustled him towards the door. "Come on, Jed. He ain't worth it."
Jed sagged against him. "What an asshole. I should've gotten paid!"
"I'll pay your bar bill." Jim sighed. It was no hardship. "But go on home to your wife for a change. That fellow is mean."
"No shit." Jed staggered off down the boardwalk. Jim looked back, and Artemus was paying the bartender. What the fuck had happened? Jim rubbed a dirty hand over his face. He had to stop cursing and now would be the best time for that.
Artemus went past Jim without saying a word. Jim went back to his whiskey. "Where's he off to now?"
"General store." The barkeep held out his hand. "Two bits."
"How much does Jed owe?"
The barkeep blinked, got out his book, and made rapid calculations. "Ten dollars."
"Fuck." Jim found his wallet. He was getting low on money, but he paid the bill. "Stop running him a tab. Cash only."
"Someone always pays!" The barkeep laughed.
Jim groaned and moved towards the door. Sam would talk Artemus' ear off, and Jim wanted to see it. No one was about when Jim went in the door, and he tracked Artemus by the sound. Jim stayed away, but managed to get close enough to hear.
"Always wears blue suits. Always," Artemus said. "He's a handsome man."
Sam and Ned laughed. Jim wondered if they were hugging again. Those two couldn't keep their hands to themselves. "He was here. Sam, you tell the story." Ned laughed some more. Jim had to see this, and he edged around the corner. No one looked at him.
"Well, let's see. He wanted some new clothes." Sam nodded. "He picked them out and I took him back to the bedroom to change."
"Excuse me?" Artemus looked dumbfounded.
Sam pulled Jim's hat out from underneath the cabinet. "I traded fer the hat!"
Jim nearly laughed. Sam shot him a look. Artemus growled, "That's his hat. Did you steal it?"
Sam put his arm around Ned. "You tell the rest, dear."
Ned nodded. "So I came back from the saloon. Jed was drunk again and cursing like a two-dollar whore, and anyway, I found them in the bedroom. Well, I figured they'd been fucking, so I punched that fancy cocksucker right in the face!"
Artemus grabbed Ned and shook him like a paper bag. "I ought to put a bullet in you!"
Sam smacked Artemus across the face. "Let loose of my boyfriend!"
Jim let out his laughter. He couldn't take it anymore. "Put him down!" He grabbed Artemus' arm and gave a pull. Shit, this was funny. Artemus spun on him, lashed out, and Jim hit the floor hard. Wow, Artemus was angry. Jim tried to stop laughing.
"What do you know about all this? You've been following me all day!"
Jim wiped a spot of blood from the corner of his mouth, choked back his laughter, and stared up at his insane partner. Artemus breathed hard, and his hand rested on his gun. He was serious.
"That's the fellow that bought some Levi's and a straw hat," Sam drawled.
"Hey, Artie." Jim got up off the floor. "You okay, Ned?"
"Hell, yes." Ned laughed. "Come on, Sam. Bob's boyfriend is here. Let's let them talk."
Sam hesitated. "I want to hear this!"
Jim waited for Artemus to say something, but he had gone from shock to some condition that couldn't be described.
"Uh, yeah. I'm a little dirty, but it's me." Jim smiled. "See, dimples."
Artemus stared at him. Sam laughed. "I love that dimple."
Ned growled, "Come on!" They went off together.
"I think I need to sit down," Artemus choked out. Jim got him a chair out from behind the counter, and he sat down heavily. "These people have filthy mouths."
"Damn straight, cocksucker." If Jim lived to be one hundred, he'd never forget the look on Artemus' face. "Are you going to hit me again?"
"If you don't stop cursing, I might." Artemus laughed weakly. "Sorry about that."
"It's okay. You were provoked." Jim sauntered over to the beef jerky and got a strip. He put a penny on the counter. "So, what are you doing here?"
"Looking for you. I was, um, worried, I guess." Artemus looked around. "I didn't even recognize you."
"First time for that, huh?" Jim shrugged. "Was it the clothes, the filth, or the scraggly face?"
"All of it. Good disguise, Jim." Artemus smiled up at him. "You have potential there after all."
Jim could hear Sam giggling in his strange way. "Guess our vacation is over." He said it more to himself than Artemus. It would be nice to be clean, but this had been just what he had needed. Someday, maybe, he'd do it again - be nobody, in a nowhere town, and do nothing.
"Sam! Do you still have my clothes?"
"Shure!" Sam strolled around the corner. "They didn't fit."
Jim laughed. "I'll go get my clothes, and then consider a bath."
Artemus stood up. "And a shave." He smiled. "Glad you're safe."
"No doubt about that." Jim walked over to Sam. It was time to go back to his real world, where no one ever, ever said cocksucker. "Bedroom?"
"I'll take you." Sam took him possessively by the arm and whispered, "Who is that handsome fella?"
"My partner. He's used to seeing me in suits," Jim whispered back.
Sam laughed softly. "I knew you were like Ned and me." He tugged Jim in the bedroom. "I hung them up. I'll get you a bag."
"Thanks, Sam." Jim glanced over at Ned. "It's been fun, Ned. I almost hate to ride on."
Ned smiled and came over. "Your suspenders are down here." He pulled them out of a drawer and handed them to Jim. "Thanks for not taking Sam from me."
Jim took his trousers off the hanger. "I never wanted Sam. He's nice and all, but not my type."
"Good, and keep it that way, asshole." Ned grinned. He moved fast and kissed Jim full on the lips. Jim's hands came up to shove him away, but ended up tangled in his coat. Jim forgot about shoving in the newness of it, and Ned groaned softly in Jim's mouth. It was Jim that ended the kiss and nudged Ned away. Ned straightened his vest. "Come back and see us, Bob."
Ned strutted out the door, right past Artemus' astonished face. Jim felt his heart hit his boots. He yanked his shirt off the hanger and folded it. There should be something he could say, but he couldn't think of it. Sam slipped past Artemus. "Here's a bag."
"Thanks." Jim started putting clothes in it. Sam was right there, close, and Jim had a feeling that another kiss was coming his way. "Sam, don't. Ned will hurt me."
"Shit. I never get to mess around!" Sam yelled towards the door. "Maybe later."
Jim laughed. "Maybe." He picked up the bag. "Artie, are you speechless?"
Artemus made a gurgly noise. That was it, and it was all the answer that Jim needed. He walked out the door, waved goodbye, and headed for the boardwalk. Artemus was right behind him, but still said nothing. Jim needed a bath and a shave, desperately. He headed straight for the bathhouse. "Artie, I'm going to go get cleaned up. I'll meet you in the saloon, if you want."
"I'll go along. I don't mind." Artemus dogged Jim's footsteps. Jim heard a wealth of confusion in those few words. "Do you mind?"
Jim shook his head. "Of course not." Since he'd just kissed Ned, it seemed pretty tame. Had he liked it? He wasn't sure, but it hadn't been bad. Startling, but-.
"Ned and Sam are friends of yours?" The words were cautious.
"They're good guys. Sam doesn't curse as much as Ned." Jim went through the door of the town bathhouse. "I'm running short on cash. Can you pay?"
"Of course!" Artemus fumbled for his wallet. Jim had never seen him so flustered.
"Thanks." Jim took the key to his room. He gave Artemus a look that asked 'Are you coming?' and Artemus blushed. He did. But he followed Jim to the room. Jim stripped off his work pants fast. They were filthy, and he didn't want them on again, until they'd been washed. Good sturdy clothes. There was no reason to throw them out. Artemus stared intently at his boots. Jim took off his shirt and dropped it on the Levi's. He should say something. The water was steaming, and he didn't know what, so he got in the tub. "Tell me what you did in New Orleans."
"The usual." Artemus shrugged. "It was dull without you."
"I apologize for running off. I needed." Jim paused to find the right words. "Something different."
"You certainly found it!" Artemus laughed, but it was weak, very weak. "That stable master cursed at you!"
"I quit." Jim ducked his head under and came up. He found the soap and started scrubbing for lather. "Darren's not all that bad. His wife ran off with the barber, and he's been grouchy since then."
Artemus turned completely away. "I don't understand all this."
Jim washed his face - twice. He wasn't sure what to say. The reasons would sound stupid to any normal man. "Artie, I was tired."
"I could meet you over at the hotel." It wasn't a question. Artemus' shoulders were very straight, even tense. Jim washed his cock and thought about Ned and what he'd say in this situation. Something with the word fucker in it.
"How was Daniel?" Jim glared when Artemus turned around. "You were in New Orleans."
"Yeah." Artemus rubbed his face. For a man of many words, he wasn't saying all that much.
Jim used the scrub brush on his back. "I didn't like that fucker at all. He smirked."
"James West! Use that soap on your mouth!" Artemus threw up his hands. "What the devil is going on here?"
"That's what I'd like to know." Jim hopped out of the tub. He wasn't exactly clean. Dirty water dripped on the floor. Artemus' face was a dark color, and Jim pulled the plug. He started fresh water. It would be cold, but he didn't care. There was a bucket, and Jim filled it. "Pour this over me." Jim got back in the tub and stood.
Artemus took the bucket as if it were a snake, but poured. It was cold! Jim shivered and looked down. He was cleaner, and his cock was hard for some odd reason. Shit. Well, he would ignore it. Artemus tossed some water on Jim's face. "More soap in your mouth?"
"Funny." Jim hopped out again. "I feel like a new man." He did, and he wasn't sure why, but everything was in focus for the first time in a few years. "There's nothing like stepping back to see a situation clearly."
"What do you mean?" Artemus' brown eyes were very large.
Jim shrugged. He grabbed a towel and started drying off. Was Artemus really that stupid? Doubtful. He was playing dumb. Jim dried his hair before saying, "So, you didn't answer. How was Daniel?"
Artemus swallowed. "Fine."
"He's a cocksucker," Jim muttered. He had to admit the word fit this situation. His anger at the thought surged inside him, but he said nothing else. Yelling accusations and screaming obscenities was stupid, and it wasn't him. Artemus handed him his shirt, and Jim took it with a nod.
"You still need a shave."
"I bought you a horse." Jim changed the subject. "He's back at the stable. I think you'll like him."
"I'm sure I will." Artemus continued to hand over clothes. "Are you through cursing?"
"I might have a few more in me. I need to get them all out before I return to polite society." Jim took his trousers. "Sam took my underclothes."
"I guessed that." Artemus laughed. "They must have fit."
"I like Sam. He's an honest man. He didn't lie about who he was." Jim struck hard. "That's a rare thing."
"All of us lie to conform to what society expects of us." Artemus had his speech all prepared. How many times had he said it to himself?
"And now you know why I rode away." Jim tucked, hooked, and shrugged on his coat. "I need a new hat."
"I'll go get it from that cocksucker who was kissing you!" Artemus' dark eyes flashed.
Jim laughed at Artemus' anger. He laughed. Why not? "That was Ned. Sam has my hat."
"Same difference." Artemus handed Jim the bag. "I'm not touching your other clothes."
"Asshole." Jim knelt and began to stuff. "Yes, I need more soap."
Artemus took Jim by the arm and jerked him up. "Stop cursing at me!"
"If it bothers you, I will, when you stop lying!" Jim removed Artemus' hand from his arm.
"What do you want from me?"
Jim tugged his cuffs down and ignored his partner's angry face for a moment. He hated it when they fought, and this time he'd definitely started it. "Sorry." He picked up the bag and put his hand on the door. Artemus' furious eyes darted away, and Jim went out. Artemus did follow, and they walked to the barbershop. Jim put his bag down and plunked his butt in a chair. He'd talk again after his shave, and when the towel was removed, Artemus was reading a magazine. Jim paid the man, sighed over his lack of money, and walked over to his partner.
"Certainly." Artemus smiled. "You look like James West again."
Jim decided that was a good thing. He was ready to walk in those boots again because the job, girl, house plan wasn't for him. "Next?"
Artemus shrugged. "Whiskey, women, and back to the train - you know the drill."
Same old stuff. Jim frowned. That's what had led him to this place. "I'm hungry, and I hear the food at the hotel is good. I guess I'll see if Ned is hungry."
"Wait a minute!" Artemus shut the door hard. "I came all this way. I thought we'd do things together."
Jim was glad to hear that. It made him feel good, but he still wasn't going to the saloon. "I'm sorry, Artemus. If you don't want to go eat, I'll meet you later, on the train, or wherever you want."
Artemus stared at him. "Things have changed."
"Yes." Jim started walking down the boardwalk, before the sheriff got him for loitering. Artemus waited. He was looking at his boots again. Jim walked down to the general store.
Ned stepped out as Jim got there. "Did you pay Jed's bar bill?"
"Yeah. Artemus punched him in the mouth, and I felt bad about it." Jim shrugged. "I'm going to eat at the hotel. Want to come along?"
Ned didn't get a chance to answer. Artemus put his hand on Ned's shoulder. "Ned has business with Sam. I'm sure of it."
Ned looked at the hand on him. "Sam wouldn't like it." He stuck out his hand. "Thanks, Bob."
"You're welcome." Jim smiled warmly. Ned ducked back into the store, and Jim smiled. "Well, Artie?"
"Dinner it is." Artemus started walking, and Jim caught up easily. "If you were bored, you should've mentioned it."
"We have gotten into a rut." Jim ran his fingers through his hair. It was nearly dry. He smiled over at Artemus. It was good to see him, and he was sorry they'd quarreled.
"Are you using your Bob Crandall name?"
"Yes." Jim gave Artemus another look. He did look good.
Artemus shot him a look. "Bob was cocky and a troublemaker."
"This is the nice Bob."
"With a filthy mouth."
Jim laughed. They passed the stable, and Darren stepped out. "You clean up good, fucker. Make sure you have money when you come back for your horse."
Artemus grabbed Jim by the arm. "You're going to take that from him?"
"He's an asshole, but I do owe him money." Jim glanced at Darren. "How's that mare?"
Darren glared and went back inside. Artemus shook his head. "I can't believe you worked for him!"
"My gun is in the loft. We'll pick it up after we eat." Jim lowered his voice. "You do have money?"
"Plenty." Artemus smiled. "I'll start you a tab."
Jim sighed. He always owed Artemus money, and they started walking again. The hotel was nice. He hadn't graced its doors, and a waiter led them to a table. He took their orders, and Jim looked around. He saw plenty of people that he'd handed horses to over the course of his stay here, but none of them recognized him.
"This is civilized." Artemus poured them each a glass of whiskey. Jim clicked glass with his partner, but stayed quiet. He had a new appreciation for civilized, but Jed was fun also. In the future, Jim would wear his chaps more often and curse occasionally. There was room for both. Dinner was excellent, and they didn't talk, at all. Jim figured that Artemus was still stunned. Ned and Sam strolled in the dining room about the time they finished, and Jim didn't miss the look Artemus gave them. Jim waved, and they got their own table, far away.
Artemus mumbled something, and Jim leaned closer. "What?"
"Nothing." Artemus paid the tab, and they left. "Women?"
"No. Horses. If you want to go get fucked, feel free." Jim hated to think that all they shared was drink and women, and when he saw Artemus wince, he felt terrible. "Artie, you push women at me all the time!"
"You like women!"
"Hey, you cocksuckers go argue somewhere else!"
Jim sighed. It was the sheriff again. "My apologies. Come on, Artie."
Artemus look over his shoulder. "Sheriff."
The sheriff glared at both of them. "Move it!"
Jim pulled Artemus toward the stable. Artemus resisted for one second, and then they were moving together. Jim kept his hand wrapped around Artemus' upper arm. "I do like women, but not every time we go out."
"Apparently, you like Ned also." Artemus stopped in the middle of the street. "James, I'm sorry. I'm a trifle confused by all of this."
Jim understood. He changed his mind about the horses. "Okay, let's get a room at the hotel. We can talk."
"Talk?" Artemus still didn't move. "Let's grab the horses and go back to our normal lives. This place is crazy!"
Jim lowered his head. He had a hard time arguing with that. "Fine." They walked to the stable. Artemus paid the bill with Darren, while Jim ran upstairs. He folded his blanket and put it at the end of the cot. After he buckled on his gun, he made sure he had everything. Finished, he went down to saddle his horse. They'd have to ride double. He put a halter and a lead rope on Artemus' new gelding, and his dream washed over him again. Bullets. Artemus. Horse. It was gone in a flash, and Jim shook it off. It was time to go back to work. The black gelding was glad to be going somewhere.
"Hey Bob, if you ever pass this way again, stop in." Darren shrugged. "You're a fucker, but I like you."
"Feeling's mutual." Jim stuck out his hand. "Take care of that mare."
"I will." Darren shook Jim's hand.
"Go ahead and kiss him," Artemus growled.
Darren turned. "Yer friend's a cocksucker, ain't he?"
Jim refused to broach the subject. "Let's go, Artie." He took the geldings out, mounted, and stuck out his hand. Artemus was up behind him quickly.
"More than." Artemus sounded surly.
Jim handed him the lead rope and got the geldings moving. He might come back - never could tell. The ride back to the train took long enough that the sun went down, and Jim was increasingly aware of the warm body behind him. "You okay?"
"Sure," Artemus grumbled.
Jim didn't think so, but he wasn't going to try to talk on horseback. The Wanderer sat right where they'd left her, and Jim helped Artemus slide off first. They both went up into the stable car. They worked side by side until the horses were settled.
Jim nodded. He was thirsty, and they went through to the parlor. It looked the same, and he thanked Artemus for the drink before moving to sit on the sofa. There was a large stain on it, and he sipped and tried to think of what to say. Obviously, passion had overcome someone.
"I spilled my drink."
"Jed would call you a lying cocksucker. I, however, am a civilized man." Jim hoped that was the only stain, and he edged away.
Artemus sputtered in his drink. "No more vacations for you!"
"You did leave Daniel in New Orleans," Jim drawled. "Right?"
Artemus kept his back to Jim. "He's no longer a friend of mine."
"Turned out to be a cocksucker, huh?" Jim laughed and finished his drink. He knew was acting awful, but he couldn't stop.
Artemus put his drink down and stayed turned away. "You left because you were sick of me."
"I left because I was sick and tired of whiskey, women, and dining at the finest restaurants!" Jim stood up. "I wanted more!"
Artemus' voice was low. "Did you find it?"
"No. I discovered that more was right under my nose, and I'd been so busy that I hadn't noticed." Jim hurried the words out.
Artemus said something. Jim caught only the word Daniel.
"Turn around."
"Why?" Artemus turned to face him. He looked wretched. "So I can see your scorn?"
Jim took a harsh breath. Darren said that it never hurt to ask, but of course, he was an idiot. Jim put his hands on his hips. "Do you want to share my bed tonight?"
Artemus' mouth dropped open and his brandy fell to the floor - another stain. "With you?"
Jim gave up. This was ridiculous. Ned and Sam had made it look easy. It wasn't. Jim sighed. "Fine. We'll go back to our rut. It wasn't all that bad."
"No," Artemus said harshly. "I'd be honored to share your bed." He looked down. "Another fucking stain."
"Yes." Jim laughed at the curse word. "The only reservation I have is that you're much more experienced than I am."
Artemus scooped up the glass. "It won't matter." He stepped over close. "Let me kiss Ned away."
Jim didn't think that was necessary, but he nodded, and their lips met. Artemus was shaking, and Jim's heart went out to him. "Is it such a surprise?"
"I never allowed myself to think it." Artemus kissed him again, and Jim responded eagerly. They forgot their glasses and everything else, and pushed each other towards the stateroom. Artemus wanted it. Jim could tell, and it was a compliment. They abandoned clothes left and right and fell on the bed together. Artemus groaned. "James."
Jim felt the first smack of come, and he stared down in amazement. Artemus moaned, but he wasn't finished. Jim reached down and stroked it all out. It dribbled down his hand. Artemus grabbed him harder. "Sorry."
"I didn't do anything," Jim said softly. He'd rarely been paid a nicer compliment. His own cock bucked from the merest touch of Artemus' hand. Their mouths met again, and Jim had no idea what to do, but his body wanted him to move, so he did. Hands roamed, hearts beat fast, and Jim surged up on top to thrust his cock against Artemus. It felt sweet, new, different, and special. It filled up something in Jim's life that had been missing. "Artie, you feel good."
Artemus pulled him down for another kiss, and he opened his mouth to accept Artemus' thrusting tongue. The brandy tasted good, and Jim lost control. He groaned and released. Shaking, he slumped down on Artemus and then rolled off. Artemus kept him close.
"I need more," Jim managed. "Give me one minute."
"Deal." Artemus stroked his hand down him again. Jim quivered and gasped softly. Artemus laughed. "I never dreamed."
"You should have. Never hurts to ask a man." Jim found some skin to kiss and touch. His life was going to be different now, but he'd never walked a normal path. It would all be good.
"Right, except for the fists and such." Artemus leaned and swiped off a path of come with his tongue.
Jim relaxed and let a hundred thoughts sift through his mind. "Did Daniel call me a cocksucker?"
Artemus jerked up and stared into Jim's eyes. "Along those lines. I shot his glass out of his hand and threw him out."
"I'm glad to hear it." Jim was. He tugged Artemus down for another kiss. "I wished you were with me more than once, especially the first time Jed called me a-"
Artemus slapped his hand down on Jim's mouth. "Enough with that or I'm not going to do this." He licked his way down until his hand began to slip away, and Jim sucked Artemus' fingers. The first touch of Artemus' mouth made Jim want to cry out.
"That's not an insult!"
Artemus laughed and lowered his head. Jim bucked like a bronco when a warm mouth enveloped his cock. He arched and pulled at Artemus' arm. It lasted and lasted. Artemus' tongue did wicked things to him. Terrible, wicked things that Jim wanted to try out on him, soon.
When Artemus pulled off, Jim yelped in disappointment. More. More. Artemus smiled. "Roll over and straddle my face."
Jim had to think and it wasn't possible with his achy cock. "Huh?"
Artemus lay flat, about halfway up the bed. "Put your cock in my mouth."
"What?" Jim asked, as he scrambled up and thrust. "Like this?"
Artemus grunted and wrapped his hands around Jim's ass. Jim braced himself and pumped in and out of Artemus' very willing mouth. It was as intoxicating as a fine whiskey and twice as heady. Artemus' hands were all over Jim's ass, and Jim lost control. He felt his balls tuck tight, and while a gentleman pulls out, he shoved deep and came with a strangled cry. It lasted long enough to make him collapse, and he tried to miss most of Artemus' face.
Artemus kept his hands on Jim's ass. They lay together, and it was a few minutes until Jim realized that Artemus' cock was prodding him. Hopefully, Artemus would have another good idea. Jim let his hands skip around the places he could reach. Artemus felt different and familiar at the same time. They'd been together for years, and this felt nothing but right.
"More?" Jim found a kiss and enjoyed it.
"Please." Artemus, so polite, hesitated. "I don't want to hurt you."
Jim had always prided himself on his toughness. "Not possible. Tell me what you want."
"So much. Relax and let me play," Artemus murmured. His voice was deep and rough, and it sent a tingle through Jim's body. Jim groaned softly and gave himself. Artemus did play. He poked, prodded, tugged, licked, and did any number of things to make Jim squirm and gasp. And Jim let him. It all felt good, caught in lassitude as he was. His gasp was loud when Artemus encouraged him to his stomach and covered him completely. Jim could feel a hard cock poking and slipping, but not entering him, though it would have been fine.
"Don't worry," Artemus whispered in Jim's ear.
"I'm not." Jim stretched back for a kiss. Artemus moved and moved until he bit Jim lightly on the shoulder and shuddered. Jim felt it hit his back, and he reached back to pull Artemus even closer. They lay together, snugged together like spoons, and Jim shut his eyes. Artemus kissed the back of Jim's neck, and he knew nothing else.
Jim opened his eyes groggily. "Gunfire?"
"No." Artemus laughed.
"Then forget it." Jim sank back down. The sun was up, and the smell of coffee was in the air. "Unless it's breakfast."
"Yes." Artemus sat down next to him. "Hungry?"
"Starved." Jim sat up. He searched brown eyes for any trace of regret or discomfort, but found only the easy affection that he'd always seen there. "This is nice. Darren always yelled, 'Get out of bed you lazy cock-"
Artemus shut Jim's mouth. "You need a refresher in manners."
Jim stretched and smiled. Artemus' hand left Jim's mouth but lingered close by. Jim smoothed his hair down. "First, food, and then you can refresh me."
Artemus pulled him up. "No more sighing and moping around?"
"No." Jim straightened his back. "I'm more than satisfied with what I have."
The End


text:
Topic: STOLEN: Tools & Kids Electric Lotus Exige :-(
tl;dr: 10+ years of tools and racing support equipment was stolen from my storage containers recently near LAX. If you come across any suspicious Lemons looking gear, Snap-On tools, Miller welder/plasma, or a mint, NIB Electric Lotus Exige for kids, please let me know.
As many of you know, I am one of the founding members of the B-Team Racing, a group of (mainly) Lotus owners that discovered each other just as broken as themselves. We bought a parked E30 in 2008 to prep and field in the 24 Hours of Lemons, have all become amazing friends, and have "competed" in dozens and dozens of races. That car has become the PussyWagën, and our team has become one of the longest running in Lemons. We've since added a Small Block Chevy swapped Lotus Elite to the lineup (because we are broken), becoming the first team to field a Lotus in Lemons.
Anyway, I've taken over running the E30 the past couple years, and earlier this year (2018), I relocated my shop from the Bay Area back to SoCal. Unable to find similar shop space in LA, I parked a couple 20' Storage Containers in a secured lot near LAX. I put all the tools, equipment, support parts, and general workshop miscellaneous that I've assembled over the past 10 years into them and have been slowly organizing them and building out a shop in the containers.
Anyone that has raced with me knows that my OCD comes out when dealing with race-prep and tools. I have a bizarre fetish for buying the right tool for the job, and for every job that I need (or may need) to do. This has gotten around the paddock, and most folks come to me to borrow tools (and E30 spares!) when they are in need, and quite frankly, I couldn't be happier to lend them out. That comradery is a big part of what makes Lemons so enjoyable for me.
On Friday, December 14th, at about 3:15am, three opportunistic criminals went out fishing and caught themselves a pretty big haul at my expense. They cut the padlocks on my containers and pulled a "smash and grab" on a huge swath of my stuff, including:
Nearly all my Snap-On hand tools:
o 1/4", 3/8", and 1/2" drive chrome sockets (shallow and deep), ratchets (80 tooth and "regular), extensions
o "Oversized" shallow & deep sockets (32mm, 36mm, 40mm)
o 3x Hex Socket/Drivers (flat end short, flat end long, ball end short/medium)
o 2x Reverse Torx Sockets (chrome and impact)
o Torx Sockets (chrome and impact)
o Reverse Torx Wrenches
o 3/8" and 1/2" drive impact sockets (shallow and deep)
o 1/4", 3/8", and 1/2" Extension Sets (too many to count: chrome & impact, various length, standard, wobble, and wobble plus)
o 1/4", 3/8", and 1/2" Universal Joints
o 5x Striking pry bars (2' down to 6", green and orange handles)
o High Leverage Cutters
o Standard Combination Wrenches (Open & Box Ends) (6mm to 27mm)
o Midget Combination Wrenches (Open & Box Ends) (8mm to 19mm)
o Flare Line Wrenches
o Standard Bluepoint Ratcheting Combination Wrenches (8mm to 27mm)
o Short Bluepoint Ratcheting Combination Wrenches (8mm to 19mm)
o Standard Bluepoint Double Box End Ratcheting (8mm to 19mm)
o Pick Set
o 1/2" TorqueAngle Torque Wrench
o 3/8" Torque Wrench
o Valious Pliers & Combination Wrenches (mainly Snap-On, some HF)
o Misc. SAE Wrenches, Sockets, and Hex Drivers (list TBD)
Snap-On and Klein Screwdrivers (approx. 14, various lengths, flat & phillips)
Snap-On Air Tools
o 1/2" Impact Air Gun (MG725)
o 3/8" Impact Air Gun (MG325)
o 1/4" Air Ratchet (Bluepoint)
o 3/8" Air Ratchet (Bluepoint)
Snap-On Tap & Die Set
Snap-On Rethreading Set
Snap-On Coolant System Pressure Tester
Electrical Tools
o Fluke Voltmeter
o Craftsman Voltmeter
o Metcal Soldering Iron
o S&G Tool Aid Crimper Set
Craftsmen Toolboxes & Bags
o Red Carry Toolbox (covered in Lemons stickers, car stickers, etc.)
o 2x small toolbags
o 2x medium toolbags
Welding & Plasma Equipment
o Miller Millermatic 180 (220V MIG)
o Miller Plasma Cutter (110V w/ built in air compressor)
o Blue Welding Cart
o Airgas 80 cu ft Cylinder (Argon?)
Hitachi 18V Slide-On Style Tools
o Hitachi 18v Cordless Drill
o Hitachi 18v Impact Gun
o Hitachi 18v Reciprocating Saw
o Hitachi 18v Hammer Drill
Bosch Circular Saw (Corded)
Porter Cable Hammer Drill
Racing Gear & Equipment
o Bell Helmet
o Sparco Race Suit
o Sparco Gloves & Shoes
o 2x HANS devices (Large?, 1x fiberglass & 1x carbon fiber)
o Simpson Race Suit (3 layer, Black & White)
o Simpson Race Gloves & Shoes
o Simpson Black Carbon Fiber Helmet (Scorpion?)
o 4x Coolsuit Shirts (Large?, 2x Blue& 2x White, 1x Hooded & 3x Non-Hooded)
o 2x Sampson Helmet Radio Kits (1x IMSA, 1x NASCAR)
o 2x Sampson Radio Kit Adapters (1x IMSA->NASCAR, 1x NASCAR->IMSA)
o Gear Bag
Racing Radios
o Yaesu VX5R
o Yaesu VX6R
o 4x Baofeng 5W
Bench Tools & Misc
o All my misc bench tools, parts, storage bins, screw & bolt collections, electrical crimp connectors, etc.
I have not completed a full inventory, and I'm sure there is more that I'm forgetting, however this is the bulk of the tools that I know they absconded with. And while this is a huge bummer for me, hopefully my insurance will cover most of it and I can easily replace it all.
What I fear I cannot replace however is the kids Electric Lotus Exige I bought 4 years ago or so when Walmart was clearing them out. I knew they'd never make these again, and at the time I didn't even know if we were going to have kids or not. I hid the purchase from my wife (girlfriend at the time) for a couple years, and when she discovered it and asked me why I bought it, I said "well, just in case we have kids, I'm going to want them to have a Lotus like daddy's". Plus, the thing is cool as all hell!
Well, now I find myself with an 8-month old that I love with every ounce of my being. When I was inspecting my containers after the break in, I was pretty bummed out about the tools, but took it in (relative) strive. However, when I discovered that the Lotus was missing, I did yell out a solid, whiny "F*CK! WHY?!". I was totally looking forward to getting this car prepped for my son, including spraying it Saffron Yellow to match.
So now that you know what went down, here's what I'd _greatly_ appreciate some help with:
1. Keep on the look-out (ebay, Craigslist, classifieds, forums) for the above tools, gear, and especially the kids Electric Lotus! (I'll happily buy the stuff back just to get it!)
2. If you know anyone that is selling a large set of Snap-On gear (with or without a Snap-On box), please let me know (think: retiring, repo-boxes, estate sales, etc.)
3. If you (or any other crazy Lotus zealots) have a new-in-box (or even used, I'm desperate) kids Electric Lotus Exige that I can buy, I'd be **most appreciative**). I don't really need it for another year or so, as my son is only 8 months old at the moment.
My biggest takeaway from this: padlocks (even the "nice & expensive" ones) are terribly easy to defeat. Sadly, I knew this when I locked up the containers, but didn't know about better container securing options. I do now, and that $100 mistake ended up with me losing $20k or so worth of gear. If you have a regular padlock protecting anything that you care to keep, I'd strongly suggest replacing it _today_.
Thanks for listening everyone. Best, -cj
#72 - PussyWagën E30
#74 - Just Plain Stupid Chotus

subset: commoncrawl


text:
Due to coronavirus pandemic the hotel is closed or an indefinite time.
The 57-room hotel is located in a quiet garden suburban area, just 100 metres away from the lake shore.
You are awaited in the well known and famous familiar hotel by renewed interior, elegant rooms,
expanded Wellness and Spa Oasis and many pampering services.
In the elegant, air-conditioned restaurant offers true culinary delights and gastronomic specialties. While relishing the delicious dishes one can enjoy the bouquet of superb, award-winning local wines. In good weather the barbecue terrace awaits visitors. In the restaurant advance-paid meals are as much available as buffet or à la carte dining.
The services of the hotel are completed by a wellness unit. In the nearly 700 m2complex wellness centre, where all kind of services are available, which because of today's intense, stressful lifestyle are essential to regenerate body and soul.
Wellness services
- The hotel offers its guests a 700 m2 complex wellness centre, which will make one's stay even more relaxing and conducive to the physical and mental recreation.
Lake Wellness Oasis
Open: 7:00 - 22:00
- In today's rushing, accelerated world there is less and less time to provide the body with appropriate care. Yet, take the time, because nowadays thanks to the health-preserving, well-being improving treatments, it is easier and more efficient to fight against the adverse physical and psychological effects.
Beauty care
- Beautiful hair and skin and manicured hands and well-groomed feet are part of good appearance. Professionals of the hotel await visitors to provide them with assistance in these areas. The manicurist and hairdresser of the hotel support customers with beauty care tricks and consulting, which can also assist someone in home beauty treatments.
- The hotel has also thought of children. It has several child-friendly facilities that will help parents and children alike to enjoy themselves.
- Most of the double-bed rooms can comfortable equipped with an extra bed. In the Deluxe rooms due to the two-area solution, both parents' and children's recreation is facilitated. Should you arrive with bigger children, take then the advantage of the connected double-bed rooms. On request the following items can be provided: cots with bedclothes, baby bathtubs and electric warmers for feeding bottles, toilet seat reducers, step stools, high chairs and prams.
Services for children
Children's pool
Residence Beach
- In summer, adults and children alike can take possession of the RESIDENCE BEACH along the lake-shore situated only 100 meters away from the hotel. The hotel beach is directly next to the free town beach, where a slide, a children playground and a sandbox await children. On the lawn-covered private lake-shore deck chairs, parasols and a sun-bathing pier ensure that you and your children safely enjoy sun-tanning and slashing from morning till night.
Cím: H-Siófok, Erkel Ferenc street 49.
Tel: +36-84-506-840
Fax: +36-84-506-839
E-mail: firstname.lastname@example.com
+36 84 506 840
8600 Siófok, Erkel Ferenc u. 49.
8600, Siófok, Fő utca
8600, Siófok, Beszédes József sétány 83.


text:
Current Projects
Our genesis feature film: "TAKE TWO" – is a true life story about a father's love and sacrifice for his daughter, and God's sovereignty in the midst of brokenness.
As a father has compassion on his children, so the Lord has compassion on those who fear Him. ~ Psalm 103:13 – NIV
Following this movie will be:
"BORN OF FIRE" – The Adoniram Judson Story – is the full length major motion picture account of America's first foreign missionary. In 1813 Adoniram Judson set his destiny sail to change the landscape of a nation.
If any man will come after Me, let him deny himself, take up his cross, and follow Me. ~ Matthew 16:24 – KJV
In 2016 & 2017, God willing, we set to capture and deliver both stories and audiences to document for all time, the TRUEST screen representations of our God; His Son, our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ! His loving Holy Spirit, and His love, peace and sacrifice for us!
Thank you for your prayers and support for these projects!


text:
Manners and customs
Subject Source: Library of Congress Subject Headings
Found in 1 Collection or Record:
Oral History Interview with Mr. Owen Trout, 1986
Identifier: M054.01.0002.00018
Overview Owen Trout, Jr. recounts details about the University Park area of Denver, Colorado, including the local schools, the influence of the University of Denver on the neighborhood, and how the construction of I-25 (Denver's North-South Interstate Highway) affected the neighborhood. Trout also discusses the prospect of the construction of a light rail line as a means of providing alternate transportation from the neighborhood to other parts of Denver, Colorado.
Dates: 1986


text:
OH FRIENDS!!! If you have been STRUGGLING to find a way to get fitness into your day, have I got a treat for YOU!!! I'm SO excited to be partnering with Shaun T in bringing you this AMAZING 20-minute workout and simple nutrition program! 20 minutes? That's it? Yup. That's all you need.
Transform :20 is a fast, super-intense fitness program created by Super Trainer Shaun T that will transform your body—and your mind—in just 20 minutes a day over 6 weeks. Be forewarned—it's hard. But the results will be worth it. Transform :20 is a breakthrough total-body workout without breaks. It's just you, Shaun T, and a Step. After 5 minutes, you'll be out of breath, at 10 minutes you'll be sweating, in 15 minutes you'll be looking at the clock, and by minute 20 you'll be done. You'll blast your core, legs, glutes, and upper body— no weights required. There's a different workout every day, 6 days a week, done in real time with the cast. No do-overs and no repeats. BOOM!
What's the program REALLY like?
Transform :20 is divided into three 2-week chapters: COMMIT, CLIMB, CONQUER. In each chapter, the moves evolve and get harder. Daily challenges will push you physically, and daily ShaunFirmations will help get your mind focused and keep you motivated. The nutrition guide has been tailored to Transform :20 to make sure you're getting the nutrients and fuel you need throughout the program to help you achieve your best results. If you have already been following a nutrition plan with me, this guide also explains how to incorporate Portion Fix or the 2B Mindset into your eating plan. Finally, weekly behind-the-scenes videos, "Transform Your Life with Shaun T," feature Shaun T and the cast as they discuss their own challenges, with the goal of motivating everyone to stay committed and strong. Catch a glimpse here:
What is VIP Early Access on December 4th?
Transform :20 will be available to all Beachbody On Demand members in the Member Library on April 1st, 2019, but you can stream the program as of January 14th 2019 with VIP Early Access. Buying any Transform :20 offer will give you VIP Early Access to the program and get you immediate access to all Transform :20 digital program materials, which include:
When you join in with VIP Early Access, any time before January 14th, you will save $20 OFF your package price. PLUS, you will secure your spot in my Transform:20 Exclusive VIP Test Group! In this daily accountability group, we will be working through the program TOGETHER, one day at a time. We will talk about nutrition, share recipes, drink Shakeology daily, and log our workouts and how we felt. This will be an open communication in a private app group on the My Challenge Tracker app. You will also have my personal, 1:1 coaching, weekly check-ins, and the group support for every step of your journey! And believe me, when you do the work, you WILL see the results!
Tell me more about the step...
The Step will work your body to its full potential. It is not required to do Transform :20, but it is recommended. The Step cannot be purchased as a standalone item. It can only be purchased with a bundle or added on as a special offer. When purchased with Challenge Packs, Completion Packs and Accessory Bundles, the step will ship in a separate box. The step comes with 2 sets of risers (4 total) that can be added on separately if desired. The step dimensions are : Step Deck: 11"L x 27"W x 4"H. Riser: 11"L x 4.5"W x 2"H (4 Total). The only equipment that's needed is a Step—available to purchase from Beachbody while supplies last. For the 6 BONUS weighted workouts, you will need some dumbbells.
I KNOW what it's like to want to get in better shape.
I KNOW how hard it feels to get confidence back after kids.
I KNOW that it seems like there is never enough time in the day for ME.
These women above... they do, too. But in 6 weeks... it's amazing what we can ACHIEVE!
If you are struggling with...
Then, THIS, my friend, is for YOU!
What do I do, and what are the pricing options?
1. Sign up using the form below to save your spot in the Exclusive Test Group. (By using the form, I will reserve your spot through January 13, 2019.)
2. When you purchase your Transform :20 challenge pack (available December 4, 2018), you will OFFICIALLY become a member of the Test Group.
2. Workouts and check-ins with the group will begin officially on January 14, 2019. Prep week(s) will open beforehand, date to be announced.
All packs include ONE YEAR membership to Beachbody On Demand Streaming Fitness, one month of nutritional support with Shakeology or Beachbody Performance Line, and all Transform :20 Program Materials and Access to VIP Test Group accountability and coaching.
Annual All Access Beachbody On Demand
Month of Shakeology HD OR Month of Beachbody Performance HD (Energize & Recover)
Transform :20 Program Materials
Group Access / 1:1 Coaching
(No Step Included)
Step Up:
Annual All Access Beachbody On Demand
Month of Shakeology HD OR Month of Beachbody Performance HD (Energize & Recover)
Transform :20 Program Materials
Group Access / 1:1 Coaching
Beachbody Step Included
Deluxe Step Up:
Annual All Access Beachbody On Demand
Month of Shakeology HD AND Month of Beachbody Performance HD (Energize & Recover)
Transform :20 Program Materials
Group Access / 1:1 Coaching
Beachbody Step Included
***If you are already a Beachbody On Demand Member, talk to me about getting a completion pack to save money!
Thank you for your response! I will be in touch with you within 24 hours of your application. Please note that you may not currently be a coach or working with a coach who is not part of the Hope Nation team.
I'm sure you've heard the saying that "It takes 21 days to make a habit," right? Or, "It takes 90 days to change your life." What if you committed to living your last 30 days of this year as you are committing to living the first 30 days of the new year? What if instead of a downhill slide into 2019, you are ramping up!?
Most of the time, around the holidays each year, people "fall off the wagon." They give in to all the goodies and treats and magically no longer have time to exercise by about Thanksgiving. That means for 6 weeks or longer, they are sabotaging their own health until the New Year. Because you know, January 1 is a magical date that all healthy habits begin, right? Well, at least temporarily.
I preface this by saying "people" fall off the wagon, because that has never been the case for me. I'm a sugar addict (in recovery now), so MY wagon (if it were ever hitched in the first place), fell off LONG before Thanksgiving. It probably took a downward spiral around September, when all the pumpkin spice lattes are released into the world. And don't even get me started on the Halloween candy that begins October 1 and doesn't end until... well, I eat it all. (And yes, I have totally stolen my kids' candy and eaten it in secret. I'm not proud of that.)
So, this idea of ... What if we START our healthy habits (or if you have started, CONTINUE them) NOW? What if we get a grip on healthy eating and exercise, and make a HABIT of it, BEFORE the gyms are overloaded with resolutioners (and yes, I think I just made up that word)? You're picking up what I'm dropping down, right?
Let's make the LAST 30 DAYS our BEST 30 DAYS of the year!
Let's ring in 2019 with SUPPORT and TOOLS to enjoy the holidays without regret and guilt!!!
And do it all in COMMUNITY with people JUST LIKE YOU!
Friends, I have the tools to help you not follow a "diet," but to help you live the healthiest life with BALANCE and feel GREAT about being in your own skin. I will help you choose from hundreds of workouts to find the best way to improve your health, starting RIGHT WHERE YOU ARE. No gym membership required. (Thank goodness! Who has time for that?)
While I am not a certified nutritionist, personal trainer, or psychologist, I use the tools and talents I have been given as a health and fitness coach, and help my clients to achieve healthy habits for life! Along with fitness, you will also have access to nutrition programs designed for lifelong food freedom and overall health, with zero starvation or calorie counting. I will provide 1:1 coaching through the program, as well as daily group accountability and support. Along with the nutrition plan, each client will also receive his/her first month's supply of superfood shakes that will curb cravings, aid digestion, give energy, and be the easiest, most nutritious meal of the day! This is my secret weapon, as it gives the nutrients of six salads, but tastes like a milkshake. WIN-WIN!
What is the cost? Simple. The only cost is the fitness and nutrition tool kit that is right for YOU. GUESS WHAT?? For the month of November, ALL kits are $20 OFF!!! So, you can get started with a YEAR of fitness and month of nutrition for only $140!! Plus, you can have additional items added on, per individual needs. Because this is the season for GIVING, when you sign up with your $20-off package, you will also receive a $10 Amazon Gift Card from me!
What all do you get in your kit? You will receive unlimited streaming online access to all workout programs, so that if you finish one, you can start on another (no getting bored). You will have containers to help with food portions, a shaker cup for on-the-go, and one full month of superfood nutrition with Shakeology. The initial cost covers the 30 days of support and 1:1 coaching. You will also have the option to add on pre and post workout supplements to help you on your journey. The $20 OFF special offer is only good through November 30th, 2018!
The goal is simple... Let's surround ourselves with POSITIVE, healthy support, recipes that won't undo all our hard work, and workouts that won't suck up all our time and still keep us on track. All it takes is a plan, and a prompt, some motivation, and a community of people who are dedicated to supporting each other!
Are you in? Let's do this TOGETHER!
There is NO time to wait!
What if THIS year, you DIDN'T gain weight, but gained friendship, support, and healthy habits for life? It's YOUR time.
Open enrollment begins NOW through November 30th!
Thank you for your interest in this special Last 30 Days Holiday group! I am so excited to help you choose YOUR perfect program and get you started! I will contact you within 24 hours of your application.
Becoming a Coach...
Hey friend,
First of all, THANK YOU for your interest in becoming a health and fitness coach. You have probably seen what I do through social media, and now you are a little curious. ...And possibly even a little scared. Let me take that FEAR away for you, ok?
See, I was not always that girl in the black bathing suit in this picture. I was introverted (and still am, btw), and SCARED TO DEATH that I would always be poor. I grew up with TONS of love, LOTS of Jesus, but no money. Both of my parents worked very hard in their self-employment jobs (minister and piano teacher), but always struggled to make ends meet until much later in life... like after we kids were grown and gone. I got married to my high school sweetheart straight out of college and we were in the same boat: in ministry and no money. We also had the added burden of student loans and car loans, with no end in sight.
Later, my dear husband worked 3-4 jobs at a time in small town, Kentucky, and I took on a seasonal job after getting my masters degree and being "overqualified" for everything. We took our youngest son to the sitter each day that I worked, and barely broke even on bills. I spent more days than not, crying in my car on the way to work, wishing things could change. I would stand at the checkout at Walmart with my cart full of groceries, covering that little plastic card with one hand, so no one would see we were using food stamps.
We were going through the motions.
Something HAD to give.
I saw a photo like this on social. The girl who is fourth from the left was going on cruises, saving for her children's college funds, and KILLING some at-home workouts in her basement as a cancer survivor. HOW was she doing it?? I HAD to find out.
And I have a feeling, that is why YOU are here, too, my friend.
If you are tired of "surviving" and ready to THRIVE in your life, this is for YOU. But, before we go on, you need to know what it is that we actually DO as coaches, and see if you are STILL wanting to go for it. Because I'm only mentoring those who want to FIGHT for their best lives.
If you are ready to fight... watch this next:
Ok, so you've watched the video, and you still have reservations about if YOU can make this work, too. Am I right? I told you I would take your fear away, so what if I told you that you can start your own business RISK-FREE? What if you had all the tools for success AND a mentor to train you 1:1? Yes, you can. And you will!
I'm offering you a special 1:1 New Coach Training.
In this training, you will:
I FOUGHT to lose 35lbs.
I FOUGHT to keep my marriage.
I FOUGHT to get out of credit card debt.
I FOUGHT to run my first marathon.
I FOUGHT to bring my daughter home from China.
And I FIGHT every day to bring HOPE to others and build this tribe of influencers who do the same through health and fitness.
Because THOSE THINGS MATTER.
So, I want FIGHTERS.
So, what do you say? Are you ready to join in my next new coach training group? Are you ready to truly HELP other people get in the best shape of their lives, and start building towards THEIR own dreams, too? If so, fill out the form below to reserve your spot!
*You may not already be a coach or currently working with another coach to apply.
I can't wait to begin working and building our dreams together!
Coach Rachel
Thank you for your application for this special training group! I will contact you within 24 hours of receiving your form.
Rachel Harvey
Wife. Mother. Runner. Coach. Adoption Advocate. I strive to share HOPE through my journey and help others reach their goals.
December 2019


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The Carolina Hurricanes beat the L.A. Kings last night 2-0 and now take 1st place in the lead for now.
But the L.A. Kings say it's not their fault, it's Taylor Swifts. Los Angeles Kings fans are convinced Taylor Swift is bringing the hockey team bad luck. So guess what? They took it down.
According to Arash Markazi of the Los Angeles Times, Staples Center President Lee Zeidman said that the banner will just conceal. This decision was made solely by the Kings. It sounds like someone just a little "too" superstitious.
The Taylor Swift banner is not gone but it will be covered for @LAKings home games moving forward. It was the Kings' decision, not Staples Center's. No word yet on the Lakers and Sparks. It is already covered during Clippers home games (along with the Lakers and Sparks banners). pic.twitter.com/qGgSSUIgmi— Arash Markazi (@ArashMarkazi) October 12, 2019


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The Money Shot RDA by Purge Mods is designed to fit perfectly onto the Purge Mods Slam Piece.
This RDA has an outer diameter of 30mm, 3mm internal walling and fixed airflow for a very flavoursome vape. The two post system allows for easy builds with its large posts.
- Diameter: 30mm
- Fixed airflow
- Ultem 810 (Goon / Kennedy) drip tip
- Solid copper 510 connection
- Brass construction
- Two post design with a deep juice well
- Engraved Money Shot logo
What's in the box:
- 1 x Money Shot RDA
- 1 x Allen Key
- Spare O-rings


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In the wake of strict waste disposal regulations and increasingly stiff competition in the energy sector, there is a need for every company to re-examine its waste management strategies. The prevailing circumstances are demanding efficiency, sustainability and cost-cutting strategies from every oil and gas company that eyes longtime survival. Through many years of industry research and experience, Aerion has come up with proven cost-cutting plans through efficient fluid and waste management.
Projections can be exaggerated or inaccurate, but tangible results are plain, straightforward and incorruptible. We have developed systems that enable monitoring and tracking of real-time performance with hard data to illustrate our strategies for achieving these results. Our services are focused on optimizing mechanical efficiency, increasing drilling fluid life cycle and operational performance. Being involved in setup, testing and monitoring, preventative maintenance and ongoing work allows our team of experienced professionals to provide recommendations for better handling fluid and waste management, helping our clients measure and increase efficiency and production while saving time and money.
What sets us apart from our competitors is our ability to provide detailed reports to show how we achieve our results. With that said, measurement, data collection, monitoring, tracking, testing, service and assessment are at the core of our operations. At Aerion, we combine labor, equipment and results by sending our trained personnel to help you achieve optimum performance. While onsite, our staff will also collect the data necessary to evaluate the performance of the equipment and make recommendations on how to improve its efficiency.
To ensure the data we collect is comprehensive and reliable, we employ numerous strategies. Some of these strategies include:
Tracking waste — The famous saying that "you cannot manage what you cannot measure" applies in fluid and waste management. Before anything, we segment the waste produced by shakers and centrifuges for easier measurement and disposal. After segmenting the waste, we measure the quantities and record the data. Measuring the waste generated after every stage of our waste management process helps us track our progress.
Using of up-to-date technology — Aerion has a lab facility for field testing and analysis. The laboratory is equipped with the most advanced technologies to provide our customers with reliable performance-tracking and efficiency monitoring progress reports. Some of the technologies available at our laboratory include:
Extensive reporting — We send our technicians to the field to collect comprehensive data. Our expert technicians then provide continuous updates through daily reports and, when required, send samples to the Aerion Laboratory for scheduled analysis.
Without a professional analysis of the data collected, it would be difficult to establish the effectiveness of our waste management solutions. Therefore, after receiving the data, our analysts and field technicians meet to determine the efficiency and changes required for optimum adjustments. The analysts follow-up to establish whether the recommendations are successful.
Aerion provides proven waste management and fluids processing solutions. At the core of our solutions is the commitment to increase efficiency and to cut operational costs for companies in the oil and gas industry.
We are committed to helping our clients:
To find out how your company can benefit from our fluid and waste management services, contact us today.
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Customers across the country have come to rely upon Aerion to provide professional, safe and cost-effective oilfield services wherever and whenever needed. We invite you to contact us today to find out how our full range of oilfield services can improvie your operations


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Thales Showcases High Assurance Security Solutions At RSA 2012
Cloud Data Protection, Mobile Payments, OASIS KMIP, DNSSEC, Code Signing And Release Of 2011 Global Encryption Trends Study
Thales, leader in information systems and communications security, will be showcasing its line of high assurance solutions for data protection and cyber security at this year's RSA Conference, San Francisco February 27 – March 2, 2012. Encryption and key management are essential components of any critical IT infrastructure and Thales will be demonstrating its solutions for:
Cloud data protection
While the cloud is still embryonic, strong cryptography and key management are not. These are well defined areas of security and have been successfully deployed for years. The Thales portfolio protects critical data assets throughout their lifecycle – when in storage, passing over communications networks and while in use by business application – all of which are vital aspects of a cloud security strategy.
Mobile payments
Mobile payments and instant issuance are hot topics today. There are now more people with mobile phones than there are with bank accounts and that makes mobile phones a natural vehicle for payments. Thales solutions secure peer-to-peer mobile payment applications, mobile contactless payments and dedicated security for the issuing of mobile payment applications over the air (OTA).
Key Management Interoperability Protocol (KMIP)
Thales is participating in the OASIS showcase highlighting interoperability of the KMIP standard for key management. The demonstration provides a working snapshot of how this enterprise key management protocol functions in a multi-vendor environment with clients communicating securely with key management servers. Thales is the premier provider of encryption and key management systems such as keyAuthority and an originating author of the KMIP specification.
Domain Name System Security Extensions (DNSSEC)
The domain name system (DNS) is a critical network infrastructure component responsible for the routing of both intranet and internet connections. Thales hardware security modules (HSMs) enable top level domains (TLDs), registrars, registries and enterprises to secure critically important signing keys used to validate the integrity of DNSSEC responses across the internet and protect the DNS from cache poisoning and man-in-the-middle attacks.
Code signing
Code signing is used by software publishers to allow end users to validate that software has not changed since it was published and also to verify the identity of the publisher. The assurance of software integrity and authenticity is important in the face of the continuing danger posed by advanced persistent threats (APTs) such as Stuxnet and Duqu. A critical and fundamental element of the security of any code signing process is protection of the private key used to create the digital signature. Just as with any PKI-based technology it is important to protect the risk of private key compromise. Thales HSMs provide tamper-resistant, certified protection for private code signing keys and a secure platform to perform critical digital signature processes.
2011 Global Encryption Trends Study
Thales is releasing this year's edition of the annual research report from the Ponemon Institute, which surveyed 4,140 business and IT managers from around the world regarding how the use of encryption has evolved and its effect on the security posture of an organization. It focuses on the compliance pressures and cyber attacks targeting sensitive data and how these are leading organizations to alter their encryption strategies.
Thales and the Ponemon Institute reveal the results of the 2011 Global Encryption Trends Study, Tuesday, February 28, 2012 at "W" San Francisco Hotel 12noon – 1.00pm. Click here to register (this is a registration only event).
Visit Thales at booth #723, RSA Conference, Moscone Center, San Francisco, February 27-March 2, 2012.
The OASIS KMIP interoperability showcase is at booth #128.
Visit the Thales Key Management Insights blog for overviews of key management issues, industry news and comment.
Visit the Thales Payments Security blog for overviews of payments security issues, industry news and comment.