keeping our fierce natures under control. The four of us boys were as big as most grown men by the time we were six and we all took to seducing the gentler sex when we each achieved our seventh year. If Pa's hair wasn't always that peculiar silvery-gray color, we would have given him white hairs for sure. But, we are his sons so he understands and he never thinks less of us for all the wickedness we engage in; shoot, he came into the world a full grown wolf with a carnal appetite that's never been matched by any of us. But, never did he allow his seed to take root before he was married nor did he abuse the recipients of his affections, or any woman, by word or deed and he schooled the four of us to be like-minded. Being the most reserved of the four of us, you surprisingly have crossed the line on both rules. First, you knocked up Liz and I held my tongue because Pa told me to. Now you've taken to smackin' Carolina. Dylan, you've always been more to me than a favorite brother; I love you greater than my own wife and children. When you left Texas, I was tempted to follow you but Ma and Pa wouldn't allow me to. They told me you needed to be your own man and my responsibility was to wait, be available if you needed me to pick up the pieces of your shattered dreams and for thirteen years, I've done exactly that. Now I'm feeling obliged to tell you Pa and I want an important lesson learned about your recent violation and Ma agrees. You are to never again raise your hand to Carolina as you did last night.”
Dylan looked sadly at his brother, who still couldn't say, let alone accept, their parents were dead and unthinkingly told him, “Carolina keeps having headaches and throwing up,” seeing the rippling waves of anger contorting his brother’s face, Dylan realized Chris was ready to strangle him or at least punch him really hard so he hurriedly added, “It's not cause I gave her that little tap. I'd never hurt her.”