There was a soft cat call from up above in the grandstands. Another cowboy was bending down over the railing. It was Tyler Roy, the owner of a neighbo...ing ranch who normally teamed up with the King ranch for round-up season. ‘So Wes! Got yerself another girl, eh? ’bout damned time.’ When Lacey looked up, Tyler winked and tipped his hat. ‘Ma’am.’ Lacey was in the middle of toying with Wesley’s hair at the nape of his neck, just beneath the edge of his cowboy hat and leaning in for another kiss. The hierarchy of the Black Hand was shrouded in as much secrecy within the brotherhood as the organization as a whole was shrouded without. Each camp, or brigade as they were called, had its own leadership. Each brigade operated autonomously unless a major engagement required inter-brigade operations. In that case, a cloaked member of the ruling leadership would step in and coordinate the action. All contractual requests were passed up the chain for approval. A brigade commander did not have. Mom was alone in the office and asked me to wait while she finished reviewing a contract. Her office was spacious, with heavy, dark-oak furniture and a three-seat leather sofa. Paintings, photos and certificates hung on the wall. Heavy drapes covered the windows. The room was lit indirectly from above, with lamps over mom's desk and on the side tables. It was the sort of image that would impress a client.I bought a soda from the machine in the corridor and sat on the sofa, watching my mom while. Admit it, you're hot for her. You think it'd be all right if you make it with her because she's your own age, if only you could somehow get her to make the first move so you wouldn't feel so guilty."Patty helplessly blushed again, her red face again apparent proof of her daughter's accusations."But I'm too drunk to back off now, Mom," Sally slurred. "You're gonna have to deal with me first. And if Aunt Linda wants to join in, that's her business."Sally drained the rest of the vodka. Then she.