A Change of Pace — Drew Hunt

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?NOTE: This story appears in the anthology, Cowboy Roundup edited by Drew Hunt, available in e-book and print formats.