The grass is turning brown early this year, he said. Dying. We’re not even in July. He spit on the ground. Why do you think that is? He asked.

Not enough rain, Frank said. Do you water?

In the evening, sometimes, Pete answered. But it never seems to soak in. Just sits on top for some reason. Again, he spit on the ground. Feel that breeze? Frank nodded. Warm, Pete said. Haven’t had a cool breeze in a long time. Just hotter and hotter. Let’s go inside.

The two men sat in recliners sipping on beer, listening to the radio. Hank Williams was on. He was singing, Your Cheating Heart. Both hummed along.

Your wife out of town? Frank asked. Pete smiled and walked over to the closet, where he pulled out a long blonde wig and stuffed bra. He took off his shirt and asked Frank to button it in the back. Both men looked in the mirror. Frank held Pete close, and they began to dance side to side with Pete’s head on his partner’s shoulder.

Did you kiss your wife goodbye this morning? Frank asked. Pete held him tighter.

I did not, Pete whispered.

I get real jealous you know, Frank gave Pete a dip in his arms. Both men laughed.

Kiss me, Frank. Go on and kiss me.

Your cheating heart….will tell on you….