My Little Jackieby Cowboy AppledashChaptersJackson MoodyApuh JackBubbaJackson MoodyMy Little Jackie By: Garrett Houser a.k.a. Cowboy Appledash Our story begins down in Sweet Water, Alabama. A quaint little town where next to nothing happens save for the one stop light in the center of town changing from green to red. Days seemed to fade into each other almost unnoticed by the small community, this was especially true for Jackson Moody, who just as his name suggests can be ‘moody’ at times. In a one horse town like Sweet Water there was slim pickings for just about anything you could think of, nobody was what you could call rich, but none were poor thanks to the sense of family that radiated through all who were acquainted, once again Jackson was the exception to this rule. I might as well tell you a little about Jackson so you can see where he’s coming from, you see, Jackson never met his mother since she died during child birth, coincidentally this also fostered a hatred from his father, the same man that created Jackson is the same one that blames Jackson for the death of his one and only love. None of which has ever helped his social situation being used to taking the blame from his father, Jackson has pretty much figured that everybody is out to get him, which is why he spends his time out in the woods hunting or by the lake fishing, it’s all he can do to provide for himself since his father refuses to feed a ‘murderer’. I guess you could say that Jackson got a lucky break when he found an old 12 gauge in the shed near his ‘home’, that combined with his extensive knowledge of the forest pretty much set him up for life, save for the moments when he has to walk into town to get ammunition, ammunition that was paid for by the unprotected wallet of his father on drunken Friday nights. You could call Jackson a ‘loner’ or a ‘hermit’, but it’s not his fault, he was raised wrong and although he usually has good intentions, nobody really gave a rats ass about him. Now that you’re pretty fluent as to what Jackson’s life is… or rather WAS like, let me tell you the story of his ‘transformation’. ~ “Now Ms. Hewitt, you an Ah both know that no deer would ever do somethin’ stupid as that.” Jackson despite his appearance was very intelligent for is age, he got the best grades in class and his knowledge of the wilderness and the critters that run through it was nearly unparalleled in the region. “Ah mean really, ya’ll ‘spect me to believe that a doe would up and crash through a shop winda just fer shits an grins?” “Jackson Buford Moody! I will not tolerate such language in my classroom. It is merely a lesson in forensics.” “An this here’s a lesson in common sense lady, deer ain’t stupid, ya’ll must think yer high an mighty compared to everythang on four legs don’cha?” “Jackson, I will not let you speak that way in front of me and the class, I deserve respect and you will respect me. You may not CARE about your education but I assure you the rest of the class does!” Jackson leaned back and swiveled his head surveying the room, taking note of the many students either asleep or ‘dicking’ around at their respective seats, evidence that justified his next comment. “Yeah, we’re all just thrilled to hear you talk about retarded deer and fancy science mumbo-jumbo, listen here, it’s obvious we don’t care about this yankee hooey, so why don’t ya’ll try teachin’ somethin’ that’ll actually be useful in life?” The student teacher debate lasted for another minute or so, eliciting giggles from the students paying attention. That is up until Jackson was kicked out of the classroom and told to talk to the principal, he didn’t really care though, it was his last class of the day so he took it upon himself to leave early and try to enjoy himself. ~ Somewhere around 2:40 in the afternoon Jackson arrived at the one spot he cherished more than anything, it was like a home away from home to him. A tiny shack built on the edge of the pond near his fathers house, sure it was small and not exactly a pretty sight, but he didn’t care, he felt comfortable there. Opening the door he commenced with his daily routine of grabbing a beer from his refrigerator and the fishing pole that lay propped up against the wall and set out toward the lake. Smiling to himself he sat down, opened the bottle and took a sip, the cool bittersweet liquid danced around in his moth for a bit until he swallowed, satisfied with the quality he grabbed the hook on the end of his line and searched for a worm crawling through the moist dirt. His search didn’t last long however, soon he spotted an exceptionally plump wriggler and began threading it onto his hook. He let go of the worm letting it dangle freely in the air, brought his arm back and cast his line out into the water. Five brews and 2 hours later Jackson returned to his shack with a mere three Bass, it wasn’t much but it would feed him for a little while. Wrapping each in tin foil he tossed them all in the freezer for later use and sat down on his bed to think. Of course, like any normal human being, he thought about life, love and success. He didn’t think of petty things like the next big Football game, and he sure as hell didn’t think about politics. Yet the one thing he would never have thought of would soon become a big part of his life, he just didn’t know it yet. ~ Saturday morning, a day like every other, mundane, uneventful… Pointless. Another morning where Jackson would hold his Mossberg in his hands and contemplate the meaning of life and whether he should continue living it. Usually Jackson could hear the sound of a vehicle approaching his shanty home and the opening and closing of a car door, but being deep in thought he paid no heed to the noises. The loud rapping on his door broke him from his trance and he stood up to answer the door. Brandishing his 12 gauge, he unlocked the door, turned the handle and let the barrel of his gun do the rest. There at the door stood Sherriff Grady, one of the two law enforcement officers in the area. Jackson took it upon himself to ‘greet’ Grady “What do you want?” “Put that gun down Jackson, I ain’t here to arrest you.” The Sherriff then leaned against the doorway and crossed his arms over his chest. “You got any idea why I’m here?” Jackson propped his long-arm against the wall and looked back at the Sherriff “Cause I left school early yesterday?” “No, I’m here because your dad is dead.” Jackson wasn’t phased by the comment so Grady continued. “Got killed drivin’ home last night, we searched the house looking for a will an he didn’t have one. Now since we don’t care for all the uppity judicial stuff like most other officers round these parts, we figure it’s best you get everything he owned, the house, his money… Everything.” “So… I get everything…” Jackson cracked a small smile and chuckled a bit. “An here Ah thought he woulda written a will given’ everything to Miss LeDoux down the road. Oh well, thanks for lettin’ me know. Ya’ll have fun now ya’hear?” The Sherriff took this as a goodbye and went on his way, Jackson turned around and set to packing a few necessities and throwing them in his truck. Although not under the best circumstances, Jacksons life was finally starting to look up and it could only get better from there, he would be bestowed a blessing unheard of in the world. The next two weeks idled by like any other, just part of the bland cycle that was Jacksons life. Everything that used to be in his shack was now in the house, and everything deemed useless in the house was in a landfill. The house had been cleaned and the place almost resembled a nice place to live. Jackson had taken his fathers old position as a mechanic at the Sweet Water Garage and received the same hours and wages his father had been getting. I guess you could say that the apple didn’t fall far from the tree. Jackson was content with life, the cash was flowing smoothly and everything he ever needed was now only a simple transaction away. Yet there was that one small feeling etching away at him, it felt almost as if there were a void in his life. Something felt like it was missing, it wasn’t the fact he had no siblings or parents because deep down he didn’t care about such things. He felt almost useless, sure he was decent when it came to turning a wrench but he felt it was all for naught, he didn’t have anybody to care for. Somebody to look out for, that was what he wanted, and soon enough his wish would be granted. ~ Just a regular Wednesday evening, a couple folks had come to the garage in need of minor repairs and tune-ups, nothing too complicated. Work had been easy so Jackson had taken the rest of the night to walk around town and explore a bit. As he strolled by his old elementary school house he decided to meander about the playground and reminisce on his days as a small child, the times when he had friends and life was fun. He sat down on a bench and surveyed the place letting nostalgic feelings wash over him and for the first time in years, he smiled. Jackson hadn’t noticed the bundle of orange that sat under the bench when he had arrived, but as he stood up to leave he bumped it with his foot and heard what could only be described as a frightful yelp. Kneeling down to inspect the whatever it was, he was surprised to find what resembled a horse, yet much smaller and oddly colored. It bore an orange coat with a blonde mane and tail and white freckles dotted both cheeks. The shivering mass looked back at him, emerald eyes glinted in the moonlight. “What in gods name are you supposed to be?” Jackson reached out to touch the creature and confirm that he wasn’t just seeing things. As he made contact he noticed that not only was it real, it was also very cold. His next actions he could not rationalize, all he knew was this thing needed help and he was going to be the one to do it. Removing his coat and laying it on the ground, he picked up the tiny filly and placed it gently on his coat and wrapped it tightly inside warming the critter. As he lifted his bundle and bought it to his chest, his heart melted, for as he stood there holding his new ‘friend’ it nuzzled his chest and buried it’s muzzle in his arm. “Come on, let’s get you home.” Yep, the first chapter of a brand new fic but not very original idea. I hope this chapter has gotten you guys at least a little interested. Be sure to rate it and leave a comment if you like it or want to berate it. Any qualms, concerns, questions, ideas or random comments are greatly appreciated. Disclaimer: I don't own shit, only thing about this that isn't fake is the fact that Mossberg makes shotguns and Sweet Water is a town in Alabama. So yeah. Apuh JackA fifteen minute walk and ten minutes of driving, surely that should suffice for a period of reflection. Jackson hadn’t taken into consideration any of the responsibilities he would be forced to face in the coming months, but now that he thought of it he knew he would find a way to make things perfect for… it. Pulling into his driveway, Jackson glanced down at his new companion wondering out loud he muttered a single phrase. “Are you a boy or a girl?” Opening up the glove compartment and grabbing a flashlight, the curious country boy slowly unwrapped the orange creature as to not disturb its slumber. He turned on the light and pointed the incandescent beam toward the hindquarters of the equine “Might as well check…”, he took hold of the top leg and carefully hoisted it up. “Well Ah‘ll be… it’s a girl…” Jackson chuckled to himself and shook his head “C’mon then, we’re goin’ inside, Ah’ll figure out what to do with ya come tomorrow.” Once again, the filly was wrapped up and carried to the next destination, unlike last time though that destination was a bed, rather than the passenger seat of a beat up pickup truck. He closed the door as quietly as possible and traipsed up toward the house. After they were inside and in his room Jackson went to work making his bed as comfortable as possible for the filly, which was really all the blankets bunched up with a caved in center set in the middle of the bed. He set the mass down in the crevice and turned to leave, one thought stopped him and made him turn around however. He hadn’t given her a proper ‘goodnight’. “G’night… horse… lookin’ thing.” Jackson closed the door and set himself down on the couch in the next room, all the while smiling to himself. Kicking off his boots and reclining back on the sofa he closed his eyes and passed out. He hadn’t expected to be woken up by a loud thumping coming from his bedroom, much less at three in the morning, but it happened nonetheless and Jackson reluctantly stood up and opened the door. From that door came a pair of orange hooves flailing after what could only be perceived as a missed kick. “The fuck are you doin’ little one?” The filly simply smiled and trotted toward him and hugged his leg. “Missed me already did ya?” He knealt down, picked up the foal and carried her over to his bed. Setting her down and crawling onto the mattress as well he looked at her and smiled “Yer too darn cute ya know that?” He paused and looked around the room then back to his friend. “Ah don’t think ya’ll can understand a lick of what Ah’m sayin’…” Shrugging it off hay laid his head back on the pillow and felt a nudge on his arm. He turned his head and bore witness to yet another spectacle that made his heart melt. The filly had made a bed out of the crook of his arm and was resting her head on his chest. ~ Blades of light from the morning sun pierced the sanctity of the once dark bedroom jostling the young man awake. As he went to get out of bed he was startled to find an orange ball of fuzz snoozing in the crook of his arm. He was about to take drastic measures when the events of the previous night came back to him, which then took his shock and melded it to a look of adoration and contentment. Doing the best he could as to not disturb his guest he made his way to the restroom to take a shower. Fifteen minutes later he emerged from the steamy water closet ‘fresh as a daisy‘, as the locals would have called it. He glanced toward his bed expecting to see the tangerine critter sound asleep, it wasn’t what he didn’t see that caused him great dismay, but rather what he did see. For on the bed there was no orange pony all that stood as evidence of her existence was the puddle of liquid where the two had slept prior to Jacksons shower. Jackson was about to yell at her when he realized it would be of no use, since she didn’t have a name the attempt would be pointless, and even then accidents happen. After he tore all the shhets, blankets and other dressings off the bed Jackson had taken them all to the laundry room where they could be washed later, then returned to the old bed, what he saw disgusted him. He realized he had been sleeping on a yellow piss stained mattress ever since he had moved back in. He pushed the thought into the back of his mind and remembered that he hadn’t seen his new friend anywhere. Jackson had scoured almost every square inch of the house up until he reached the kitchen. There before his eyes sat an orange filly merrily gorging herself on a box of cereal, whether by pure coincidence or some weird manipulation done by a deity, the cereal of choice was in fact… Applejacks. “Applejacks… You ate a whole box of cereal all by yourself…” He looked down at the adorable mess and could only smirk as he thought of a joke “Guess you’ll turn into one now and Ah’ll have to start callin’ ya Applejack.” This earned him a great beaming smile from the filly almost as if that we’re her name already. “Tell ya what Applejack, next time ya’ll want some cereal, grab a couple bowls an some milk, Ah might want some too.” With that He hoisted AJ into the air and set her on the counter. “Now you stay right there an don’t move.” As she sat on the counter watching the man taking care of her diligently cleaning up her mess she couldn’t help but grow bored and look out the window. A sense of infantile curiosity washed over her as she glanced outside. What she saw was a simple tree to most others, a tall sturdy hunk of wood baring fruit, nothing more, nothing less, yet it’s significance to AJ was unknown but as she gazed upon the twisted brown bark a spark seemed to set off in her mind. “Earth to Applejack?” Jackson playfully waved his hand in front of the entranced filly breaking her of her blank state. “Ya’ll wanna watch some cartoons or somethin’?” The filly gave him a confused look so he set her down on the floor and lead her to the living room, to his delight the filly had walked right by his side to see just what it was he was trying to show her. Jackson picked up the remote, turned on the t.v. and laughed as he watched her fall back on her haunches mesmerized by the moving pictures and noise coming from the box. “Now ya’ll just sit tight, got some shi- stuff… I gotta do right quick.” That being said Jackson left the pony in her trance like state and went to throw out the disgusting mattress he had slept on for too long. ~ A month and seven days had gone by since he took little Applejack in, his change of emotion and how he presented himself was not only quickly apparent to him, but also to every person in town who had to communicate with him. Applejack had just began learning basic English thanks to listening to Jackson talk to her thinking she couldn’t understand a lick of what he was saying, this however turned out to be the complete opposite of his thoughts. He came back from the convenience store somewhere around noon and saw AJ patiently waiting for him inside. He went to give her a hug, as he embraced her he hadn’t noticed her struggling to say something, yet the more she worked at it the clearer and more apparent it became to him. She was trying to talk, something no animal save for a few should be able to do. Yet even as those facts stayed in his mind, Jackson couldn’t help but give every ounce of attention to the filly as she tried to bring her mouth and vocal cords to make out an attempt at speech. “A-aaah-Ahhpuh” “ABBA? Ah don’t listen to them… What are ya’ll tryin’ to say?” The filly pressed on “Aahpuh… Apuh juh-juh-juah.” “Ya’ll tryin’ to say Apple Juice?” The filly shook her head and placed a hoof on her own chest, attempting to tell him what she was saying. “Apuh Jaa… Apuh Jack” “Applejack?” The filly smiled and held out her arms as if to say ‘give them to me.’ “Ya’ll want yer Applejacks?” Once again the filly smiled and nodded enthusiastically. Jackson smiled and stood up, he walked over to the refrigerator and grabbed the box resting on top and handed them to his miniature mare. “Apuh Jack!” As he watched the filly stuff her muzzle with the Apple flavored bits he couldn’t help but grin as his thoughts took over. Yer a father now Jackson, ya’ll best take care of her… Bubba“Hey Applejack, what are ya’ll watchin‘?” Jackson had arrived at his house after going out to purchase groceries to find AJ sprawled out on the couch somehow entranced by the images on the screen. She hadn’t noticed him come in or inquire her about the program, so Jackson decided to look for himself. There presented on the Television was a telecast of the PBR (Professional Bull Riding), he didn’t know why she was, but AJ could not bring herself to look away from the screen. “Kody!” The only thing AJ had said since he came in, when Jackson looked at the screen once again he saw the name ‘Kody Lostroh’ displayed for the viewers. “Take it ya like ‘im?” This received an excited nod from the filly as her gaze remained glued to the scene playing out in front of her. Jackson sat down on the couch next to her and watched as the cameraman focused on Lostrohs hand. In his hand sat a rather dirty looking rope which he wrapped twice around his palm then closed his fist, he worked his digits in to ensure a tight grip. The program switched cameramen and now the view was from that of the arena floor aimed at the chute gate. A quick nod was given and the chute was opened, what came next could only be described as chaotic and dangerous. The second the bull exited the gate it was bucking wildly throwing the rider into oddly contorting positions, all of which looked extremely uncomfortable. The timer on the upper left corner showed numbers increasing, displaying how long Lostroh had stayed on the back of the bull. “NO!” Jackson looked down at AJ who wore a displeased frown on her face, he looked back at the television and noted that the timer had stopped at 7.73 seconds, he needed 8 seconds for a ride which obviously made Applejack very upset. “You wanted him to ride that bull didn’t ya?” AJ looked up at Jackson and nodded still frowning. She crossed her hooves in front of her chest and pouted, this only made Jackson chuckle as he stood up and went back to unpacking and organizing the food he came back with. As he set about with his task he could hear the occasional cheer and displeasured moan from AJ as she remained seated watching her program. “It’s a good thing she’s starting to talk…” ~ “AJ, I think it’s time we got out of the house. What do you say?” “Yeah!” Socializing with somebody other than Jackson was obviously a dream of AJ’s since the two spent all their time at home. Jackson figured that if AJ was going to make some friends it’d be now or never. “Ya ever wanted to see where Ah work?” Applejack nodded her head and looked at Jackson in awe. She knew he had a job, she just didn’t know what that consisted of, but she was about to find out. She didn’t remember the night all that well, but what she did remember was the soft leather of the seat she now sat in and the way it smelled. There was something about Jacksons truck that AJ absolutely loved, and whenever he would arrive at the house (if she wasn’t caught up in her bull riding) she would sprint to the window just to look at the machine entering the driveway. Now sitting inside it for the second time a sense of nostalgia washed over her and she felt extremely giddy. “Just so ya know AJ, if’n ya behave today Ah got a present for ya. But only if ya’ll behave, y’hear?” “Yes daddy.” Jackson stopped for a moment to make sure he heard her right. She hadn’t called him ‘daddy’ before, but now that she did he couldn’t get his mind off of it. AJ was officially his daughter, and he her father, and he would do absolutely anything to protect her. He glanced at AJ and flashed her a toothy grin before ruffling her mane and turning the key rearing the engine to life. “Alright Jackie, which wanna listen to?” Jackson already knew the answer, but her absolutely loved the way she would say it. “Kwis Ledoox!” She couldn’t really pronounce her ‘R’s’ yet, which made the sight just a tad bit adorable, as for the latter part of the name, she didn’t know the ‘X’ was silent given it’s a French name. Jackson grabbed the tape from the center console and popped it into the stereo letting the first track come on. ‘Under This Old Hat’ AJ’s favorite track on the tape, soon she was singing along with the old Cowboy. The song (If you wanna listen to it). “I never was the kind to wear my feelings on my sleeve. But since I've met you girl there's been a world of change in me.” Jackson watched as AJ bounced around in her seat bobbing her head to the beat. “Well I've got to say I love you hope you like the sound of that. Cause I can't keep it under this old hat” At the mention of the word ‘hat Jackson smirked knowing exactly what he got for AJ, he pictured the little brown box sitting on her bed as of now, she didn’t know it but when they got home he would wait for her to find it. “Under this old hat is the head you turned around. And the heart you stole away the day we met. Under this old hat's two arms that long to hold you tight. And boots I'd walk the soles off of to be here by your side. And every night in my prayers there's just one thing I ask. That the man you love will always be under this old hat. You've got me feeling things that I've never felt before. And it's so good to know when I come a knocking at your door. That of all the men who'd love to waltz across your welcome mat. The one you want is under this old hat. Under this old hat. That the man you love will always be under this old hat.” A few songs later the two reached the outskirts of town, this had been the first time AJ had gotten a look at the community since that night she was found by Jackson, but she pushed that to the back of her mind as she gawked at all the different vehicles parked in front of building and driving along the street, one in particular earned a lot of attention from AJ as they pulled behind the town garage, for there next to the truck was the most beautiful piece of machinery she had ever seen. A canary yellow 1970 Plymouth Hemi Cuda, recently washed and waxed, glistening in the morning sun. “Hey Daddy?” “Yes AJ?” Jackson looked at AJ and then to the car she was looking at. “Whats that?” He leaned in and spoke softly in her ear. “That, is the Plymouth… Hemi… Cuda… My bosses car. Purty ain’t it?” AJ giggled then looked at him nodding the affirmative. “Well lets go inside, ya’ll might as well get acquainted, who knows he may just give you a tour of it.” With that Jackson gave her a playful wink and nudged her before opening his door. He stepped out and held the door open for the filly, she hopped out of the truck and hit the asphalt with a light ‘clop’ sound, she giggled and stamped her hooves on the ground recreating the noise. As she was ushered inside she looked around the garage bewildered at the tools and posters lining the walls until Jackson shouted. “Hey Bubba! Come on out here, I got somebody ya’ll should meet.” With that a muffled response was heard from what appeared to be the ‘office’, so Jackson led AJ inside and poked his head around the corner. “Get yer fat ass up, I got somebody you should meet.” Jackson ducked as an empty can of Copenhagen was hurled at his head. AJ sat patiently on the office couch with Jackson, a few seconds later Applejack was forced to suppress a chortle as a rather large baby faced and bearded man rounded the corner. “The hell do you wa… Jackson, what the hell is that thing on the couch?” Applejack was obviously hurt by the comment as her jaw dropped and her eyes began to tear up. “That Bubba, is my kin, Applejack.” As Jackson said this he wrapped an arm around AJ adding a venomous tone to the name ‘Bubba’. “Now ya’ll wanna try that again? Ya made her upset.” Bubba looked at AJ and saw the tears rolling down her cheek, he had no idea why but the sight broke his heart. “Ah’m sorry lil’ miss Applejack, Ah didn’t mean nothing’ by it.” Once again, he didn’t know why he was asking forgiveness from an adorable orange filly, but he couldn’t bring himself to be any more cruel to the pony. “Is there anything Ah can do for ya? Help ya forgive me?” “Ya’ll can start by given’ her a hug, she loves hugs. Don’cha AJ?” She looked up at Jackson and nodded solemnly. That was until she was hoisted into the air and nearly crushed by the burly ‘Bubba’. “And you can show her the Cuda.” Bubba stopped, he and AJ both looked at Jackson with an odd look before they looked back at each other. “Ya wanna see the purty girl there Applejack?” He couldn’t help but smile as the filly nodded ecstatically. So now besides Jackson, AJ had another friend, a friend that like Jackson, would grow very fond of her throughout the next few days.
Jackson MoodyMy Little Jackie By: Garrett Houser a.k.a. Cowboy Appledash Our story begins down in Sweet Water, Alabama. A quaint little town where next to nothing happens save for the one stop light in the center of town changing from green to red. Days seemed to fade into each other almost unnoticed by the small community, this was especially true for Jackson Moody, who just as his name suggests can be ‘moody’ at times. In a one horse town like Sweet Water there was slim pickings for just about anything you could think of, nobody was what you could call rich, but none were poor thanks to the sense of family that radiated through all who were acquainted, once again Jackson was the exception to this rule. I might as well tell you a little about Jackson so you can see where he’s coming from, you see, Jackson never met his mother since she died during child birth, coincidentally this also fostered a hatred from his father, the same man that created Jackson is the same one that blames Jackson for the death of his one and only love. None of which has ever helped his social situation being used to taking the blame from his father, Jackson has pretty much figured that everybody is out to get him, which is why he spends his time out in the woods hunting or by the lake fishing, it’s all he can do to provide for himself since his father refuses to feed a ‘murderer’. I guess you could say that Jackson got a lucky break when he found an old 12 gauge in the shed near his ‘home’, that combined with his extensive knowledge of the forest pretty much set him up for life, save for the moments when he has to walk into town to get ammunition, ammunition that was paid for by the unprotected wallet of his father on drunken Friday nights. You could call Jackson a ‘loner’ or a ‘hermit’, but it’s not his fault, he was raised wrong and although he usually has good intentions, nobody really gave a rats ass about him. Now that you’re pretty fluent as to what Jackson’s life is… or rather WAS like, let me tell you the story of his ‘transformation’. ~ “Now Ms. Hewitt, you an Ah both know that no deer would ever do somethin’ stupid as that.” Jackson despite his appearance was very intelligent for is age, he got the best grades in class and his knowledge of the wilderness and the critters that run through it was nearly unparalleled in the region. “Ah mean really, ya’ll ‘spect me to believe that a doe would up and crash through a shop winda just fer shits an grins?” “Jackson Buford Moody! I will not tolerate such language in my classroom. It is merely a lesson in forensics.” “An this here’s a lesson in common sense lady, deer ain’t stupid, ya’ll must think yer high an mighty compared to everythang on four legs don’cha?” “Jackson, I will not let you speak that way in front of me and the class, I deserve respect and you will respect me. You may not CARE about your education but I assure you the rest of the class does!” Jackson leaned back and swiveled his head surveying the room, taking note of the many students either asleep or ‘dicking’ around at their respective seats, evidence that justified his next comment. “Yeah, we’re all just thrilled to hear you talk about retarded deer and fancy science mumbo-jumbo, listen here, it’s obvious we don’t care about this yankee hooey, so why don’t ya’ll try teachin’ somethin’ that’ll actually be useful in life?” The student teacher debate lasted for another minute or so, eliciting giggles from the students paying attention. That is up until Jackson was kicked out of the classroom and told to talk to the principal, he didn’t really care though, it was his last class of the day so he took it upon himself to leave early and try to enjoy himself. ~ Somewhere around 2:40 in the afternoon Jackson arrived at the one spot he cherished more than anything, it was like a home away from home to him. A tiny shack built on the edge of the pond near his fathers house, sure it was small and not exactly a pretty sight, but he didn’t care, he felt comfortable there. Opening the door he commenced with his daily routine of grabbing a beer from his refrigerator and the fishing pole that lay propped up against the wall and set out toward the lake. Smiling to himself he sat down, opened the bottle and took a sip, the cool bittersweet liquid danced around in his moth for a bit until he swallowed, satisfied with the quality he grabbed the hook on the end of his line and searched for a worm crawling through the moist dirt. His search didn’t last long however, soon he spotted an exceptionally plump wriggler and began threading it onto his hook. He let go of the worm letting it dangle freely in the air, brought his arm back and cast his line out into the water. Five brews and 2 hours later Jackson returned to his shack with a mere three Bass, it wasn’t much but it would feed him for a little while. Wrapping each in tin foil he tossed them all in the freezer for later use and sat down on his bed to think. Of course, like any normal human being, he thought about life, love and success. He didn’t think of petty things like the next big Football game, and he sure as hell didn’t think about politics. Yet the one thing he would never have thought of would soon become a big part of his life, he just didn’t know it yet. ~ Saturday morning, a day like every other, mundane, uneventful… Pointless. Another morning where Jackson would hold his Mossberg in his hands and contemplate the meaning of life and whether he should continue living it. Usually Jackson could hear the sound of a vehicle approaching his shanty home and the opening and closing of a car door, but being deep in thought he paid no heed to the noises. The loud rapping on his door broke him from his trance and he stood up to answer the door. Brandishing his 12 gauge, he unlocked the door, turned the handle and let the barrel of his gun do the rest. There at the door stood Sherriff Grady, one of the two law enforcement officers in the area. Jackson took it upon himself to ‘greet’ Grady “What do you want?” “Put that gun down Jackson, I ain’t here to arrest you.” The Sherriff then leaned against the doorway and crossed his arms over his chest. “You got any idea why I’m here?” Jackson propped his long-arm against the wall and looked back at the Sherriff “Cause I left school early yesterday?” “No, I’m here because your dad is dead.” Jackson wasn’t phased by the comment so Grady continued. “Got killed drivin’ home last night, we searched the house looking for a will an he didn’t have one. Now since we don’t care for all the uppity judicial stuff like most other officers round these parts, we figure it’s best you get everything he owned, the house, his money… Everything.” “So… I get everything…” Jackson cracked a small smile and chuckled a bit. “An here Ah thought he woulda written a will given’ everything to Miss LeDoux down the road. Oh well, thanks for lettin’ me know. Ya’ll have fun now ya’hear?” The Sherriff took this as a goodbye and went on his way, Jackson turned around and set to packing a few necessities and throwing them in his truck. Although not under the best circumstances, Jacksons life was finally starting to look up and it could only get better from there, he would be bestowed a blessing unheard of in the world. The next two weeks idled by like any other, just part of the bland cycle that was Jacksons life. Everything that used to be in his shack was now in the house, and everything deemed useless in the house was in a landfill. The house had been cleaned and the place almost resembled a nice place to live. Jackson had taken his fathers old position as a mechanic at the Sweet Water Garage and received the same hours and wages his father had been getting. I guess you could say that the apple didn’t fall far from the tree. Jackson was content with life, the cash was flowing smoothly and everything he ever needed was now only a simple transaction away. Yet there was that one small feeling etching away at him, it felt almost as if there were a void in his life. Something felt like it was missing, it wasn’t the fact he had no siblings or parents because deep down he didn’t care about such things. He felt almost useless, sure he was decent when it came to turning a wrench but he felt it was all for naught, he didn’t have anybody to care for. Somebody to look out for, that was what he wanted, and soon enough his wish would be granted. ~ Just a regular Wednesday evening, a couple folks had come to the garage in need of minor repairs and tune-ups, nothing too complicated. Work had been easy so Jackson had taken the rest of the night to walk around town and explore a bit. As he strolled by his old elementary school house he decided to meander about the playground and reminisce on his days as a small child, the times when he had friends and life was fun. He sat down on a bench and surveyed the place letting nostalgic feelings wash over him and for the first time in years, he smiled. Jackson hadn’t noticed the bundle of orange that sat under the bench when he had arrived, but as he stood up to leave he bumped it with his foot and heard what could only be described as a frightful yelp. Kneeling down to inspect the whatever it was, he was surprised to find what resembled a horse, yet much smaller and oddly colored. It bore an orange coat with a blonde mane and tail and white freckles dotted both cheeks. The shivering mass looked back at him, emerald eyes glinted in the moonlight. “What in gods name are you supposed to be?” Jackson reached out to touch the creature and confirm that he wasn’t just seeing things. As he made contact he noticed that not only was it real, it was also very cold. His next actions he could not rationalize, all he knew was this thing needed help and he was going to be the one to do it. Removing his coat and laying it on the ground, he picked up the tiny filly and placed it gently on his coat and wrapped it tightly inside warming the critter. As he lifted his bundle and bought it to his chest, his heart melted, for as he stood there holding his new ‘friend’ it nuzzled his chest and buried it’s muzzle in his arm. “Come on, let’s get you home.” Yep, the first chapter of a brand new fic but not very original idea. I hope this chapter has gotten you guys at least a little interested. Be sure to rate it and leave a comment if you like it or want to berate it. Any qualms, concerns, questions, ideas or random comments are greatly appreciated. Disclaimer: I don't own shit, only thing about this that isn't fake is the fact that Mossberg makes shotguns and Sweet Water is a town in Alabama. So yeah.
Apuh JackA fifteen minute walk and ten minutes of driving, surely that should suffice for a period of reflection. Jackson hadn’t taken into consideration any of the responsibilities he would be forced to face in the coming months, but now that he thought of it he knew he would find a way to make things perfect for… it. Pulling into his driveway, Jackson glanced down at his new companion wondering out loud he muttered a single phrase. “Are you a boy or a girl?” Opening up the glove compartment and grabbing a flashlight, the curious country boy slowly unwrapped the orange creature as to not disturb its slumber. He turned on the light and pointed the incandescent beam toward the hindquarters of the equine “Might as well check…”, he took hold of the top leg and carefully hoisted it up. “Well Ah‘ll be… it’s a girl…” Jackson chuckled to himself and shook his head “C’mon then, we’re goin’ inside, Ah’ll figure out what to do with ya come tomorrow.” Once again, the filly was wrapped up and carried to the next destination, unlike last time though that destination was a bed, rather than the passenger seat of a beat up pickup truck. He closed the door as quietly as possible and traipsed up toward the house. After they were inside and in his room Jackson went to work making his bed as comfortable as possible for the filly, which was really all the blankets bunched up with a caved in center set in the middle of the bed. He set the mass down in the crevice and turned to leave, one thought stopped him and made him turn around however. He hadn’t given her a proper ‘goodnight’. “G’night… horse… lookin’ thing.” Jackson closed the door and set himself down on the couch in the next room, all the while smiling to himself. Kicking off his boots and reclining back on the sofa he closed his eyes and passed out. He hadn’t expected to be woken up by a loud thumping coming from his bedroom, much less at three in the morning, but it happened nonetheless and Jackson reluctantly stood up and opened the door. From that door came a pair of orange hooves flailing after what could only be perceived as a missed kick. “The fuck are you doin’ little one?” The filly simply smiled and trotted toward him and hugged his leg. “Missed me already did ya?” He knealt down, picked up the foal and carried her over to his bed. Setting her down and crawling onto the mattress as well he looked at her and smiled “Yer too darn cute ya know that?” He paused and looked around the room then back to his friend. “Ah don’t think ya’ll can understand a lick of what Ah’m sayin’…” Shrugging it off hay laid his head back on the pillow and felt a nudge on his arm. He turned his head and bore witness to yet another spectacle that made his heart melt. The filly had made a bed out of the crook of his arm and was resting her head on his chest. ~ Blades of light from the morning sun pierced the sanctity of the once dark bedroom jostling the young man awake. As he went to get out of bed he was startled to find an orange ball of fuzz snoozing in the crook of his arm. He was about to take drastic measures when the events of the previous night came back to him, which then took his shock and melded it to a look of adoration and contentment. Doing the best he could as to not disturb his guest he made his way to the restroom to take a shower. Fifteen minutes later he emerged from the steamy water closet ‘fresh as a daisy‘, as the locals would have called it. He glanced toward his bed expecting to see the tangerine critter sound asleep, it wasn’t what he didn’t see that caused him great dismay, but rather what he did see. For on the bed there was no orange pony all that stood as evidence of her existence was the puddle of liquid where the two had slept prior to Jacksons shower. Jackson was about to yell at her when he realized it would be of no use, since she didn’t have a name the attempt would be pointless, and even then accidents happen. After he tore all the shhets, blankets and other dressings off the bed Jackson had taken them all to the laundry room where they could be washed later, then returned to the old bed, what he saw disgusted him. He realized he had been sleeping on a yellow piss stained mattress ever since he had moved back in. He pushed the thought into the back of his mind and remembered that he hadn’t seen his new friend anywhere. Jackson had scoured almost every square inch of the house up until he reached the kitchen. There before his eyes sat an orange filly merrily gorging herself on a box of cereal, whether by pure coincidence or some weird manipulation done by a deity, the cereal of choice was in fact… Applejacks. “Applejacks… You ate a whole box of cereal all by yourself…” He looked down at the adorable mess and could only smirk as he thought of a joke “Guess you’ll turn into one now and Ah’ll have to start callin’ ya Applejack.” This earned him a great beaming smile from the filly almost as if that we’re her name already. “Tell ya what Applejack, next time ya’ll want some cereal, grab a couple bowls an some milk, Ah might want some too.” With that He hoisted AJ into the air and set her on the counter. “Now you stay right there an don’t move.” As she sat on the counter watching the man taking care of her diligently cleaning up her mess she couldn’t help but grow bored and look out the window. A sense of infantile curiosity washed over her as she glanced outside. What she saw was a simple tree to most others, a tall sturdy hunk of wood baring fruit, nothing more, nothing less, yet it’s significance to AJ was unknown but as she gazed upon the twisted brown bark a spark seemed to set off in her mind. “Earth to Applejack?” Jackson playfully waved his hand in front of the entranced filly breaking her of her blank state. “Ya’ll wanna watch some cartoons or somethin’?” The filly gave him a confused look so he set her down on the floor and lead her to the living room, to his delight the filly had walked right by his side to see just what it was he was trying to show her. Jackson picked up the remote, turned on the t.v. and laughed as he watched her fall back on her haunches mesmerized by the moving pictures and noise coming from the box. “Now ya’ll just sit tight, got some shi- stuff… I gotta do right quick.” That being said Jackson left the pony in her trance like state and went to throw out the disgusting mattress he had slept on for too long. ~ A month and seven days had gone by since he took little Applejack in, his change of emotion and how he presented himself was not only quickly apparent to him, but also to every person in town who had to communicate with him. Applejack had just began learning basic English thanks to listening to Jackson talk to her thinking she couldn’t understand a lick of what he was saying, this however turned out to be the complete opposite of his thoughts. He came back from the convenience store somewhere around noon and saw AJ patiently waiting for him inside. He went to give her a hug, as he embraced her he hadn’t noticed her struggling to say something, yet the more she worked at it the clearer and more apparent it became to him. She was trying to talk, something no animal save for a few should be able to do. Yet even as those facts stayed in his mind, Jackson couldn’t help but give every ounce of attention to the filly as she tried to bring her mouth and vocal cords to make out an attempt at speech. “A-aaah-Ahhpuh” “ABBA? Ah don’t listen to them… What are ya’ll tryin’ to say?” The filly pressed on “Aahpuh… Apuh juh-juh-juah.” “Ya’ll tryin’ to say Apple Juice?” The filly shook her head and placed a hoof on her own chest, attempting to tell him what she was saying. “Apuh Jaa… Apuh Jack” “Applejack?” The filly smiled and held out her arms as if to say ‘give them to me.’ “Ya’ll want yer Applejacks?” Once again the filly smiled and nodded enthusiastically. Jackson smiled and stood up, he walked over to the refrigerator and grabbed the box resting on top and handed them to his miniature mare. “Apuh Jack!” As he watched the filly stuff her muzzle with the Apple flavored bits he couldn’t help but grin as his thoughts took over. Yer a father now Jackson, ya’ll best take care of her…
Bubba“Hey Applejack, what are ya’ll watchin‘?” Jackson had arrived at his house after going out to purchase groceries to find AJ sprawled out on the couch somehow entranced by the images on the screen. She hadn’t noticed him come in or inquire her about the program, so Jackson decided to look for himself. There presented on the Television was a telecast of the PBR (Professional Bull Riding), he didn’t know why she was, but AJ could not bring herself to look away from the screen. “Kody!” The only thing AJ had said since he came in, when Jackson looked at the screen once again he saw the name ‘Kody Lostroh’ displayed for the viewers. “Take it ya like ‘im?” This received an excited nod from the filly as her gaze remained glued to the scene playing out in front of her. Jackson sat down on the couch next to her and watched as the cameraman focused on Lostrohs hand. In his hand sat a rather dirty looking rope which he wrapped twice around his palm then closed his fist, he worked his digits in to ensure a tight grip. The program switched cameramen and now the view was from that of the arena floor aimed at the chute gate. A quick nod was given and the chute was opened, what came next could only be described as chaotic and dangerous. The second the bull exited the gate it was bucking wildly throwing the rider into oddly contorting positions, all of which looked extremely uncomfortable. The timer on the upper left corner showed numbers increasing, displaying how long Lostroh had stayed on the back of the bull. “NO!” Jackson looked down at AJ who wore a displeased frown on her face, he looked back at the television and noted that the timer had stopped at 7.73 seconds, he needed 8 seconds for a ride which obviously made Applejack very upset. “You wanted him to ride that bull didn’t ya?” AJ looked up at Jackson and nodded still frowning. She crossed her hooves in front of her chest and pouted, this only made Jackson chuckle as he stood up and went back to unpacking and organizing the food he came back with. As he set about with his task he could hear the occasional cheer and displeasured moan from AJ as she remained seated watching her program. “It’s a good thing she’s starting to talk…” ~ “AJ, I think it’s time we got out of the house. What do you say?” “Yeah!” Socializing with somebody other than Jackson was obviously a dream of AJ’s since the two spent all their time at home. Jackson figured that if AJ was going to make some friends it’d be now or never. “Ya ever wanted to see where Ah work?” Applejack nodded her head and looked at Jackson in awe. She knew he had a job, she just didn’t know what that consisted of, but she was about to find out. She didn’t remember the night all that well, but what she did remember was the soft leather of the seat she now sat in and the way it smelled. There was something about Jacksons truck that AJ absolutely loved, and whenever he would arrive at the house (if she wasn’t caught up in her bull riding) she would sprint to the window just to look at the machine entering the driveway. Now sitting inside it for the second time a sense of nostalgia washed over her and she felt extremely giddy. “Just so ya know AJ, if’n ya behave today Ah got a present for ya. But only if ya’ll behave, y’hear?” “Yes daddy.” Jackson stopped for a moment to make sure he heard her right. She hadn’t called him ‘daddy’ before, but now that she did he couldn’t get his mind off of it. AJ was officially his daughter, and he her father, and he would do absolutely anything to protect her. He glanced at AJ and flashed her a toothy grin before ruffling her mane and turning the key rearing the engine to life. “Alright Jackie, which wanna listen to?” Jackson already knew the answer, but her absolutely loved the way she would say it. “Kwis Ledoox!” She couldn’t really pronounce her ‘R’s’ yet, which made the sight just a tad bit adorable, as for the latter part of the name, she didn’t know the ‘X’ was silent given it’s a French name. Jackson grabbed the tape from the center console and popped it into the stereo letting the first track come on. ‘Under This Old Hat’ AJ’s favorite track on the tape, soon she was singing along with the old Cowboy. The song (If you wanna listen to it). “I never was the kind to wear my feelings on my sleeve. But since I've met you girl there's been a world of change in me.” Jackson watched as AJ bounced around in her seat bobbing her head to the beat. “Well I've got to say I love you hope you like the sound of that. Cause I can't keep it under this old hat” At the mention of the word ‘hat Jackson smirked knowing exactly what he got for AJ, he pictured the little brown box sitting on her bed as of now, she didn’t know it but when they got home he would wait for her to find it. “Under this old hat is the head you turned around. And the heart you stole away the day we met. Under this old hat's two arms that long to hold you tight. And boots I'd walk the soles off of to be here by your side. And every night in my prayers there's just one thing I ask. That the man you love will always be under this old hat. You've got me feeling things that I've never felt before. And it's so good to know when I come a knocking at your door. That of all the men who'd love to waltz across your welcome mat. The one you want is under this old hat. Under this old hat. That the man you love will always be under this old hat.” A few songs later the two reached the outskirts of town, this had been the first time AJ had gotten a look at the community since that night she was found by Jackson, but she pushed that to the back of her mind as she gawked at all the different vehicles parked in front of building and driving along the street, one in particular earned a lot of attention from AJ as they pulled behind the town garage, for there next to the truck was the most beautiful piece of machinery she had ever seen. A canary yellow 1970 Plymouth Hemi Cuda, recently washed and waxed, glistening in the morning sun. “Hey Daddy?” “Yes AJ?” Jackson looked at AJ and then to the car she was looking at. “Whats that?” He leaned in and spoke softly in her ear. “That, is the Plymouth… Hemi… Cuda… My bosses car. Purty ain’t it?” AJ giggled then looked at him nodding the affirmative. “Well lets go inside, ya’ll might as well get acquainted, who knows he may just give you a tour of it.” With that Jackson gave her a playful wink and nudged her before opening his door. He stepped out and held the door open for the filly, she hopped out of the truck and hit the asphalt with a light ‘clop’ sound, she giggled and stamped her hooves on the ground recreating the noise. As she was ushered inside she looked around the garage bewildered at the tools and posters lining the walls until Jackson shouted. “Hey Bubba! Come on out here, I got somebody ya’ll should meet.” With that a muffled response was heard from what appeared to be the ‘office’, so Jackson led AJ inside and poked his head around the corner. “Get yer fat ass up, I got somebody you should meet.” Jackson ducked as an empty can of Copenhagen was hurled at his head. AJ sat patiently on the office couch with Jackson, a few seconds later Applejack was forced to suppress a chortle as a rather large baby faced and bearded man rounded the corner. “The hell do you wa… Jackson, what the hell is that thing on the couch?” Applejack was obviously hurt by the comment as her jaw dropped and her eyes began to tear up. “That Bubba, is my kin, Applejack.” As Jackson said this he wrapped an arm around AJ adding a venomous tone to the name ‘Bubba’. “Now ya’ll wanna try that again? Ya made her upset.” Bubba looked at AJ and saw the tears rolling down her cheek, he had no idea why but the sight broke his heart. “Ah’m sorry lil’ miss Applejack, Ah didn’t mean nothing’ by it.” Once again, he didn’t know why he was asking forgiveness from an adorable orange filly, but he couldn’t bring himself to be any more cruel to the pony. “Is there anything Ah can do for ya? Help ya forgive me?” “Ya’ll can start by given’ her a hug, she loves hugs. Don’cha AJ?” She looked up at Jackson and nodded solemnly. That was until she was hoisted into the air and nearly crushed by the burly ‘Bubba’. “And you can show her the Cuda.” Bubba stopped, he and AJ both looked at Jackson with an odd look before they looked back at each other. “Ya wanna see the purty girl there Applejack?” He couldn’t help but smile as the filly nodded ecstatically. So now besides Jackson, AJ had another friend, a friend that like Jackson, would grow very fond of her throughout the next few days.
