First Destiny by David S. Clarke

Author:David S. Clarke [Clarke, David S.]
Language: eng
Format: epub
Published: 2015-01-13T05:00:00+00:00

Chapter 21

The two men went and sat down on the porch and Cade explained what he was thinking. After hearing him out, Patch became very serious. “I’d be honored to train you, son, but I’m not sure you know what you’re asking for.”

“What do you mean?”

Patch thought a minute before answering and said, “Back in the army I was considered a real son of a bitch by my recruits. Pushed them hard. Made em hate me sometimes. But they always came out the best on the other end. I’ll push you too, son. And with things getting worse around here, we’ll have to cram in a lot within a short space of time.”

“I’m ready, Patch,” Cade said eagerly. “I’d like to get started right away.”

“I want to make sure you understand me, son. When I say I’ll push you I mean I’ll ride you so hard that you might come to hate me too before we’re through. But I believe you have what it takes. That’s why I’m agreeing to do it. Just remember our little talk here when you’re cursing me and feel like putting a knife into me.”

Patch smiled at Cade, but this time his smile frightened Cade a little. He remembered that this caring, old man was also a seasoned soldier and killer. How many had he blown to pieces during the war with North Korea? Cade remembered the sound of Patch’s arrow as it sunk into Willy’s neck. Cade guessed he would do well to remain a little frightened of Patch.

“Thanks, Patch. I’ll work hard. Try to be the best student you ever had. So, when do we get started?”

Before Patch could respond, a medium-sized man topped with jet black hair and built like a tank walked up to the house and onto the porch. He looked young for being nearly sixty. He came right up to Cade and began shaking his hand up and down. “Señor Landon! Our famous guest I presume?” he asked exuberantly. “A pleasure to meet you finally.” He had a slight Hispanic accent.

“Yes, Cabrillo,” Patch said. “This is Cade. Cade, meet my right-hand man, Cabrillo. Cab keeps Apache Ranch running. He’s my engineer, technical guru, mechanic, you name it.”

Cabrillo had a proud smile on his face. “Yes. Almost everythin’…‘cept feeding the animals or cleaning up their shit.” He started laughing and slapping his knee, causing both Patch and Cade to start laughing. He took a step back and looked more carefully at Cade. “I see much of his father in him, Señor Patch. Especially the eyes.”

“You knew my father too?” Cade said, surprised.

“I knew him well, Señor Cade. I was here even then. When he would come to stay. I taught him many things. He was smart, like you I think.”

“I agree Cab,” Patch said, “every time I look at him I’m reminded of Jonas.”

“Jonas was a great man,” Señor Cade. “And I am glad you are here now. Very glad.” Cabrillo looked at Patch. “Shall we show him our little

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