"Ranch hand Bill Webster has worked on the Lazy W. for ten years, and for most of that time he’s been in a relationship with foreman Rusty Redfern. Lately Rusty has been slowing down. Although Bill likes the gentler, more romantic side to his lover, he can’t help missing the old Rusty who was always bursting with energy. When Rusty needs a pacemaker, Bill has to use all his powers of persuasion to get Rusty to the hospital. There Bill waits and worries while Rusty is in surgery, remembering happier times when they first met. How does each man adapt to the various changes of pace in their lives and relationship?"
A Change of Pace By Drew Hunt “Stop it! Someone could come in!” Ian “Rusty” Redfern said, pushing at Bill’s chest, forcing him to retreat. Bill Webster stepped back from Rusty’s hospital bed. “I just wanted to kiss you ‘cause…” Bill wanted to show Rusty how much Bill cared for him, worried about him, loved him. “Well don’t,” Rusty grumped, fussing with his blanket. “f*****g thing itches. And this gown…” He made a face and moved around in the bed. Bill stuck his hands in the pockets of his Wranglers so he wouldn’t be tempted to reach out and straighten the bedding. Rusty let out a huff of air. “I’m sorry, Billy,” he said, turning sad eyes Bill’s way. Bill’s heart melted as it always did when Rusty called him “Billy” and gave him the sad-eyed look. His hands itched to touch Rusty agai