Page 16 of Mother Clucker

Taking over the company for Pops had been all consuming. It came at the expense of my social life. That included dating women and hanging out with my buddies from my four years at Texas A&M.

If Drew wasn’t supplying livestock for our product, I’m afraid to think how long it would have been between my visits to see him.

Drew cocked up a brow. “Try closer to a year.”

I winced. “It’s been that long?”

“Sure has. But I guess time flies when you’re running daddy’s multinational, multimillion dollar conglomerate.”

I rolled my eyes. “You’re not doing too bad yourself here I’d say. I saw some pretty fancy machinery and brand new buildings on my way in.”

“Yeah, well, some big feed corporation is way overpaying me for my chickens . . .” Drew grinned then his gaze dropped to the rooster I held under my arm. “So what’s that? You bringing me a chicken as a gift? Because I have to tell you, I already got a few of those.”

I smiled and glanced down at Rowdy. “Not like this one. This one comes with a story.”

Drew eyed the bird that had calmed down on the drive between the shelter and Drew’s place. Now, he’d settled in and had fallen asleep in my arms. “I can’t wait to hear it.”

“And I can’t wait to tell you. Where can I stash him for now?” I asked.

Rowdy was handsome and all, but carrying around a bird like a baby all day wasn’t high on my priority list. Taking a piss and then getting some grub most definitely was. I’d need use of my hands for both.

“There’s a pen of hens I keep around for eggs off the side of the house. We can stick him in there and give the girls a thrill.”

I laughed. “I’m sure Rowdy will appreciate that.”

“Rowdy? You named him?” Drew smirked.

“Long story.”

“As you’ve mentioned.” Drew motioned with the flick of one hand. “Come on then. We’ll toss him in and then you can come on in to the house and tell me this story of yours. I’ve got some cold ones chilling in the fridge and red beans and rice on the stove.”

“Perfect.” I was ready for a drink.

I’d left Texas early yesterday, driven directly to a meeting with a supplier, spent the night in a hotel, and had been up before dawn to make the drive to the shelter.

It was noon. Given my recent schedule, it felt more like suppertime than lunch to me. I definitely could use a beer.

Drew led me to a coop so nice that it put some people’s homes to shame. It was attached to a large shaded wire run that gave the small flock plenty of room to stretch their legs.

“I let them roam every morning when it’s cool. They put themselves back in for the heat of the day. Probably best to close him in there for now so he doesn’t take off.” Drew stepped to the side to give me room to toss Rowdy in.

“Good idea.” I had a feeling Heather wouldn’t take it well if I lost him.

For some reason she’d gotten real attached to him. Good for me since I had him and to see him she’d have to see me. I couldn’t wait.

The bird stood for a second, blinking sleepily as he took note of his surroundings. I saw the moment he noticed his companions. He ran at one, hopped on her back and went right to work.

Drew laughed. “Doesn’t waste any time, does he?”

“Nope.” I shook my head and turned to my friend. Since I wasn’t getting any action lately I really didn’t feel like watching my adopted bird have fun. “So, how about that cold one?”

“You got it.” Drew latched the door and turned toward the house. “He sure is a pretty one.”

“Yup. As pretty as his owner.”

Drew opened the screened door to the home’s kitchen and made a beeline to the fridge. I followed him into the rustic post and beam room decked out with all the most modern appliances.

He carried two longnecks to the counter, popped off the tops and held out one to me.

---