Welcome back to the Ugly Stick Saloon. Pull up a chair and set a spell. This short story (5000 words) is the prequel to BOOTS AND BAREBACK published by Samhain Publishing. A cowboy can't possibly be happy in NYC, can he? Ella Lang followed her dream to be on stage all the way to New York City, with the approval and support of the love of her life, Jesse O'Brien, a genuine, died-in-the-cowhide Texas cowboy. For months, Jesse has pounded the pavement and has yet to find a job befitting a man used to horses, boots and wide-open spaces. Though it breaks her heart, it's time to cut her lover loose and let him mosey on back to the Rockin' O Ranch, his roots and the family and horse he loves. Look out Ella, this cowboy has other plans...