A man of few words, Joe is a hard-working farmhand who likes his simple, uncomplicated life. Ed is satisfied with his existence as an auto mechanic, but thrilled when an unexpected development in his life allows him to help Joe realize a dream.<br><br>It forces them, however, to reevaluate the casual, undefined nature of their relationship. They’re too macho to speak of love, and neither would acknowledge he doesn’t really mind when it’s his turn to bottom. When life throws them a curve ball, and the rules of their game get old, Ed tries to take every aspect of their relationship up a notch. Can Joe adapt to the open sentimentality Ed’s injecting into their relationship, let alone the new spice in their bedroom activities?<br><br>NOTE: This is a previously published story that has been rewritten, expanded, and re-edited.

Cultivating Love

Touring the house, they decided which furnishings and appliances should be kept and which should be replaced with their own possessions. There was no sense in hauling stuff out here to replace perfectly good furniture.


“Hey,” Joe said. “Let’s see if we can get your dad’s truck started before we leave today. If it’s running good, I could use that for any hauling that needs to be done around here. That way, I could return in your car and leave you with my truck for the move. We could tow one of those trailers in the machine shed back with us. You should be able to get everything we’re moving loaded up on that and the truck bed.”


“Good idea. I’ll check it out. The battery might need charging.”


Ed went to tinker with the truck in the garage while Joe walked toward the barn. As he approached, a blue Silverado pulled up beside it. A man stepped out, but stopped short when he noticed Joe.


Chapter 7