Page 59 of All of Us

“What?” I looked where he was pointing.

“The eagles, the three of them, are living their best lives up there together. They mate for life. It looks like they figured out how to make it work.” Martin looked at me seriously.

“That’s pretty cool. I wish I were an eagle and could soar through the sky and not worry about hurting someone important to me.”

It was clear he wanted me to get my shit together as the eagles did. Which meant telling one of these men that I cared about, that we were only going to be friends.

“I’m spending some time with Joe on Thursday. I really like him.”

“He’s a good man, I don’t blame you.” Martin had six children, not to mention all the men and women they had brought into their family, including me. Yet he was taking the time to make me feel comfortable.

“Dusty—my horse's ears twitched hearing his name—was my first love. I still love him, but we don’t know each other. It’s a situation I’d never expected to be in, and I don’t know what to do.”

“I can’t imagine. I know you will all do what is best for everyone.” He nodded. “The eagles figured it out. You will too.”

We rode to the other animals I was responsible for and confirmed that we would be gathering sperm this week. As we returned to the main barn, Martin smiled at me.

“You’re going to do fine, Gentry. I know you, and you are a good man.” I could feel the stinging behind my eyes because I didn’t get a lot of parental love, and this felt exactly like that.

“I promise I won’t hurt him. Thank you for talking to me. We didn’t solve anything, but I am glad you aren’t mad at me.”

“You are family to Mrs. Wilson and me, I’d never be mad at you.” Already, Dusty’s bridle was off, and he followed me around as I helped groom Victory, Martin's stallion.

“Martin, can I go over some numbers with you?” Earl called from his office.

“Go ahead, I’ll put Victory away and sweep up in here.”

“One minute, Earl.” He yelled back. “Gentry come to me any time,” he pulled me in for a hug. When he released me, he looked me in the eyes. “Be like the eagles, Gentry.”

Before I left for the day, I went to spend some time with Dusty—the horse. There were several peppermints in my pocket for him to enjoy while we talked a little more. I went into his stall and sat in the corner. Dusty came over and snuffled at me, wanting one of the candies. Holding my hand out, I let him take one; he chomped on it happily.

“Let’s send our friend a text.” I stood up to take a selfie with my buddy. I rubbed his gums to get him to raise his lip, then snapped the picture. Sending the picture to Joe I included a simple note.

GENTRY

I’ve missed you.

I pulled out a couple more sweets. “What should I do?” Whispering in his ear has become a habit. It felt like he somehow understood. When my phone vibrated, I couldn’t get to it fast enough.

JOE

I’m looking forward to seeing you.

Come to my house for dinner after?

My heart beat hard, he wasn’t pulling away, and I was so happy because I thought I might have to beg, but he asked me to come to his place.

GENTRY

Yes! Definitely, yes!

Can I buy you dinner?

We can order on our way back.

JOE

I would love that.