Summary: Adam reconnects with friend from his youth. But all is not as it seems with her.
Rating: PG, Word Count: 8794
A Love Rekindled
Chapter 1
Emma Harper rolled into Virginia City on the stage coach. She had left everything in Sacramento and wanted to start a new life in Virginia City. She had lived in Virginia City until she was sixteen when her father took over his deceased father’s business at the mercantile. It was hard to leave her friends she’d known in Virginia City but she had made new friends in Sacramento and even went through heartaches. She suffered the death of her family. Her father had died just last year, her mother died from complications after she delivered a stillborn baby girl and her brother was killed in a freak accident when he was shot by a gunman’s stray bullet. But the thing she kept close was a secret she hoped wouldn’t get out.
She stepped off the stage and looked around. Virginia City had grown since she had been a young girl. A man about her age had walked by and then stopped when he saw her. He touched the brim of his hat to greet her and she smiled at him. He walked up to her and she got a closer look at him. He looked familiar but she couldn’t place him or even his name.
“Welcome to Virginia City. May I help you with your bags to the hotel? My name is Adam Cartwright.”
“Adam Cartwright! I haven’t seen you since we were sixteen. It’s me, Emma Harper.”
“Hello Emma. I thought you looked familiar. It’s so good to see you. Are you here for a visit or for good? How is your family?” he asked.
“I’m here to stay. My family has all passed on,” she said with a hint of sadness in her voice.
“I’m sorry, Emma. Is there anything I can do to help you?” Adam asked kindly putting his hand on her shoulder.
“There’s nothing really, Adam.”
“Well let me at least help you to the hotel.”
“All right,” she replied smiling. He grabbed her bags and led her to the hotel.
After Emma put her things away, she told Adam that she needed to find a job before her money dwindled. The business did not sell well, and she’d spent a lot on the trip. She had already spent much on the trip but she had enough to get her through a month or so.
“I know that Jerry needs help at the mercantile what with his wife being sick,” Adam suggested.
“That would be wonderful. My father owned a mercantile in Sacramento and I worked there.”
“Great, we’ll get that set up tomorrow. Right now, I’d like to take you to dinner.”
“You don’t need to do that, Adam.”
“Of course I do. Consider it a welcome home dinner,” Adam said with a smile.
“All right,” Emma replied. After dinner Adam took Emma back to the hotel. He saw her safely to her room then headed home.
At home he told his family about Emma’s return and him helping her find a job and a place to stay.
“I wondered how she was. How is her family?” Ben asked.
Adam explained what Emma had told him. He looked at Hoss when he mentioned her brother Emmett. Hoss and Emmett had been the best of friends growing up.
“That’s too bad. He was always a good kid,” Hoss replied.
“You must have her over some time. It would be good to see her,” Ben said.
“I will and Joe, you are not to flirt with her,” Adam said turning to his youngest brother pointing his finger at him.
“Me? Now why would I do something like that?” Joe asked in a mocked worried tone.
“Gee, I wonder.”
Adam went to town the next day to go to the mercantile with Emma.
“Hello Adam, how are you?” Jerry Reid asked.
“I’m doing well. This is Emma Harper and I told her you were looking for someone to hire here. I thought Emma would be a good help to you,” Adam
said.
“It’s nice to meet you, Emma. Have you worked in a mercantile before?”
“Yes I have. My father owned one in Sacramento,” Emma replied.
“Wonderful. When can you start?”
“Um, any time,” she said, flustered.
She didn’t think she’d get the job so quickly.
“How about today? Right now? It’s been hard to juggle the store and Amy. She’s been awful sick lately. She’s needed me today,” Jerry explained.
“Yes I can start right now,” Emma said.
Just then the sound of a bell in the back sounded.
“That’s Amy, come meet her. Adam could you watch the store for a bit please?” Jerry asked.
“Sure,” Adam replied smiling.
Emma looked at Adam then followed Jerry to meet his wife.
“Amy, this is Emma Harper. She’ll be working for us now,” Jerry explained.
“It’s nice to meet you, Emma. You are a beautiful woman,” Amy said.
“It’s nice to meet you too, Amy. Please let me know if there’s anything I can help you with,” Emma said.
“Thank you, dear.”
Emma looked at Amy; she guessed Amy was about in her mid-forties. She had long dark hair with specks of grey in it and beautiful brown eyes. Emma wondered what Amy had that made her so sick. She didn’t dare ask.
“I guess I’ll go up front and get to work,” Emma said.
“Let Adam know that he can stay and help if he’d like. I may be a while,” Jerry said.
Emma smiled and nodded. She headed up front and saw Adam talking with a female customer. Jealousy quickly shot through her. She didn’t want anyone to talk to Adam. Then she stopped and wondered where that came from. She and Adam were just friends and that was it. He had said he loved her many years ago but they were children. She had loved him also. Did it still count as adults? She put the thought aside as she grabbed an apron and tied it around her thin waist. Adam rang up the girl and she left.
“Jerry says you’re good to stay and help if you’d like,” Emma said.
“All right then I’ll stay,” he said.
She saw him looking at her. She found a duster and dusted the shelves.
“Would you like to come to dinner tonight at the Ponderosa?” Adam asked.
“I’d like that. It would be good to see your family,” Emma said.
“We’ll go after you get off work.”
“Sounds good.”
That night Emma enjoyed her evening with the Cartwrights. She hadn’t laughed so hard in a long time and it felt good. She noticed Hoss and Joe had also grown into handsome men. They had asked her about life in California. She told them about her father’s business and the passing of her family. She in turn asked them about the Ponderosa. She loved hearing about the ranch.
“I’ll have to take you for a ride around the land some time,” Joe said.
“Little Joe, Emma is Adam’s friend and by all rights he is to show her around,” Hoss said nudging his little brother with his elbow.
Emma smiled. Ben and Adam laughed. Adam later took Emma back to the hotel.
“Thank you for dinner. I had a lovely time,” she said.
“I did too,” Adam said, smiling at her.
Emma all of a sudden felt shy. She hadn’t felt shy around anyone since…well, she wouldn’t think of that.
Chapter 2
Two months had gone by quickly for Emma. She enjoyed her work and loved Jerry and Amy. The previous month she moved into the extra room they had set aside for employees. She had been surprised when Adam had paid for the room. Adam had said it was his pleasure and that she didn’t need to pay for it when she tried to pay him back. She wouldn’t admit that she had fallen for Adam Cartwright. She couldn’t. But in reality, she was falling for him. She didn’t want to get close to him because she felt she wasn’t ready to date.
“Emma, go get the doctor! It’s Amy!” Jerry yelled.
Emma ran to get Doctor Martin and they rushed back to the mercantile. Emma turned the CLOSED sign up so they wouldn’t be disturbed. She sat on a stool waiting to hear from the doctor but also giving them space. She found a copy of Pride and Prejudice and began to read it while waiting.
An hour later, Jerry called Emma in the room. Doctor Martin was finishing up and quietly left as Emma walked in. She saw Jerry’s tear stained face and knew the news was grim.
“Amy’s gone,” was all he said.
“I’m so sorry. Is there anything I can do to help?” Emma asked.
“No, there’s nothing you can do. I do appreciate all you have done in helping Amy and me.”
“It was nothing. You both have become like parents to me.”
“We’ll close the mercantile until the funeral. I want to get everything ready. I need to send a telegram to my children.”
“I can do that if you’d like,” she offered.
“Thank you, I appreciate that. I’ll get it written and have you deliver it,” Jerry said getting up.
He wrote the message down and the addresses to his three boys. He handed the paper and money to Emma and she left.
Emma finally let the tears fall and she didn’t care who saw her as she walked down the street. The news of Amy’s death would spread soon. She didn’t see who was coming and she ended up bumping into Adam. He caught her before she could fall to the ground.
“Oh Adam, I’m sorry. I didn’t see you there. How are you?” she asked.
“I’m doing fine. What’s wrong?” he asked.
“Amy just passed away. I’m delivering a message to be sent to their sons.”
“Let me come with you. I know how much they meant to you.”
“All right.” Adam held his arm out to her and she took it. They arrived at the telegraph office and sent the messages.
“Would you mind if I came with you to the mercantile and give my condolences to Jerry?” Adam asked.
“I don’t mind at all,” she replied.
The funeral was held two days later. Emma met Jerry’s and Amy’s sons Matt, James and Edward and their respective spouses and children. Emma was standing by herself looking at Amy’s freshly dug grave. Her thoughts turned to her family as fresh tears fell down her cheeks.
“Emma?” Emma looked up and saw Jerry walk up to her.
“Yes?”
“My son Matt just asked if I could move back east with him and his family so they can take care of me in my old age. I told them I would. I wondered if I could give you the store,” Jerry said.
“But I can’t take it. I have no money to buy it,” Emma said surprised.
“I don’t want to get money from you. You’ve done so much for us.”
“Are you sure?”
“I’m very sure.”
“Well, thank you. I will do you and Amy proud. I thank you for all you’ve done for me. I’ve thought of you as parents and have learned so much. I hope you’ll take care.”
Jerry reached for a hug and squeezed Emma. “You’re a darling, Emma. You take care and keep me posted on your life.”
“I will.” He released her and joined his family.
She watched him leave the cemetery. She turned to go back to the store. She couldn’t believe she owned it now. She knew that they’d draw up papers before Jerry left. It was such a surprise though. She knew she could do it.
Emma was walking down the street trying to clear her head with now being owner of Jerry’s mercantile.
“How are you holding up?” a voice asked from behind.
She turned and saw Adam.
“I’m doing all right. I just got some shocking news,” Emma said.
Adam walked up to her. “What is it?” he asked concerned.
“Jerry is giving me the store. He said it was for helping him and Amy out.”
“That was nice of him.” He smiled down at her happy about the offer she received.
“Yeah it was. I just hope I can run it alone.”
“If you need any help let me know. I’d be happy to lend a hand.”
“Thank you. I’d better get going,” Emma said walking off.
Two weeks had gone by, and Emma was adjusting to owning her new store. She had been the only one to run it and had considered hiring help. Luckily it hadn’t been too busy for her to worry about help. The men who came in were either nice and helped with getting the heavy sacks in the wagons or thought she could do it alone and wouldn’t help her. She got annoyed with those men but it was part of the business so she did it. It was nice to keep busy and not think of California or Adam. She didn’t want to carry feelings for Adam. What if he was like Josh? No, Adam wasn’t like Josh. But he could have changed since she had seen him when they were young. He could be just like Josh. She turned her thoughts to the books to keep records of everything sold.
Closing time had finally come and she started to lock the door but Adam had slipped in.
“Hello Adam. I’m closing right now. If you need anything you’re welcome to get it,” she said.
“I didn’t come to buy anything. I wanted to see if you’d come to the Ponderosa for supper. I’d have been here earlier but I got busy on the ranch,” he said.
“Supper at the Ponderosa would be wonderful. Thank you.”
Adam took a closer look at her. “You look tired. Are you sure you want to go? We can do it for another night.”
“No, you’re here and I would love to see your family,” Emma said.
“All right.” Adam took her arm and helped her to the buggy.
They headed for the Ponderosa and she ended up falling asleep on Adam’s arm. He smiled as he looked down at her.
“Supper was wonderful, Hop Sing. Thank you,” Emma said.
“You’re welcome. You come any time and Hop Sing will cook for you,” said the Chinaman in broken English.
Emma smiled.
“You are welcome on the ranch any time,” Ben said.
“Thank you, Mr. Cartwright,” Emma said.
“Please, call me Ben.”
“All right.”
They all stood and went to the front room to converse more.
“How’s the mercantile going?” Ben asked.
“It’s busy but it’s good. I’ve been thinking about hiring some help,” Emma said.
“I can help if you’d like,” Adam offered.
“I don’t want to take you away from the ranch,” Emma replied.
“I’m sure they can spare me. Right Pa?” Adam asked turning to his father.
“Yes I believe we can spare you,” Ben replied.
“Maybe I’ll come help Emma too,” Joe said.
“You we need, Joseph. Besides, I doubt anything will get done with you there,” Ben said.
Joe nodded sadly. As Emma listened her eyes kept closing and her head kept bobbing.
“I’d better get going before I fall asleep,” She said.
“Stay here. It’s dark out and it’ll be safer if you stay here,” Ben said.
“I really couldn’t. I don’t want to impose.”
“You wouldn’t be imposing. We have plenty of room.”
“All right. I’m too tired to argue,” she laughed.
Adam jumped up and showed her to the guest room near the kitchen.
“There are extra night clothes in the dresser.” He pointed at the dresser on the left side of the room
“Thank you, Adam,” she replied.
“You’re welcome. Sleep well.”
“You too.”
He smiled and shut the door behind him leaving her alone. She changed then got into bed and fell asleep.
Adam started working at the mercantile and Emma was grateful he had volunteered his services. She noticed a trend the past few weeks since Adam started working. More women came in but they always wanted Adam to help. She looked over at Adam and saw the girls flirting with him and sighed as she picked up a heavy seed bag. Carl McMurray was outside loading his wagon with two other bags.
“Here Emma, let me get that for you. Adam should be doing that,” he said.
“I know but he’s helping the female customers,” She said chagrined.
“Good luck,” he said smiling.
“Thank you.”
He got in his wagon and left.
Emma had received a new shipment and had it behind a counter. She bent down to pull a few items out when she heard women voices.
“Adam is only working here to help Emma,” one said.
Emma recognized the voice. It was Helen Mangum. She was the town gossip.
“That’s nice of him,” the second voice said.
It was Mary Spencer. She seemed like a sweet girl but now Emma would see what Mary was like.
“He’s helping because he feels sorry nobody will work here,” Helen said.
“Why?” Mary asked.
“Because of Emma. He feels bad about her running this place alone. Nobody wants to be around Emma. She is a homely girl. For someone who has
come from money she doesn’t dress the part,” Helen sniffed.
Emma looked down at her blue calico dress. It was clean with no holes and comfortable to wear. Her thoughts turned to what Helen said. Was it true? Did he work with her because nobody would work for and didn’t like her?
“I heard Adam wants to court her. She’d be a lucky girl if she courted him,” Mary replied.
“It’s all for show for Adam.”
“Why would he do that?”
“Who knows the mind of a Cartwright?”
“Well I think you’re wrong. Emma is a sweet, nice girl and does all she can to help. Adam would be lucky to have her and her him. I think Adam is genuine with helping her. He’s not doing it for show. He’s always liked Emma,” Mary said.
Emma heard them walk away and slowly stood up. She sighed to herself and tried to ignore the raging thoughts flying around her mind but it was hard because she wondered if what she heard was fact or fiction.
The bell jangled and Emma knew it was another woman coming in so she turned back to her the shipment. She felt someone standing behind her and turned around. She gasped when she saw her former boyfriend.
“How did you find me?” she whispered with fright in her voice.
“I asked around. You are mine,” the man said a soft tone.
“Yes, I was your girl but your drinking and beating me ended it.”
She threw a glance at Adam wondering if he could hear the exchange but he was still busy. For once she was grateful for the women distracting Adam.
“I want you back. I quit drinking,”
“Josh, I don’t care if you stopped. Anything could get you back into a saloon. Now, please go back to California and leave me alone. I never want to see you again,” Emma said angrily.
Adam finished helping the ladies and turned to see Emma talking with a customer. He couldn’t hear the conversation but he knew it wasn’t good when the man reached over the counter to slap and then grabbed hold of Emma’s face holding it close to him. Adam flew at the customer and pulled his fingers off Emma’s face. Adam grabbed Josh by the scruff of the neck and the seat of the pants and shoved him out the door. Emma stood in shock as she watched Adam lose his temper. Her legs buckled and she went down.
Adam came in to check on Emma and didn’t see her.
“Emma?” he called out.
He went to the counter and saw her on the floor with a bewildered look on her face. He went around the counter, knelt down and gathered her in his arms feeling her shake. He saw the red hand print on her face.
“Emma, who was that?”
“No…nobody,” She stammered.
“He has to be someone you know for you to react this way.”
Emma gathered her senses and looked at Adam.
“He was my old beau.”
“Your what?” he asked in surprised.
“Josh was my beau. We were together for a year. He was really nice and a gentleman. Then he changed. He was moody and abusive physically and emotionally. I ended our relationship and I came here. I didn’t tell him where I went. He wants me to come back to him but I told him I can’t. He said he quit drinking but I don’t believe it. He said it many times before,” Emma explained.
Adam processed everything she said. He thought nothing less of her but thought her brave for what she had been through.
Boot sounds came in followed by a voice.
“Adam? Emma?” It was Sheriff Roy Coffee.
Adam stood and helped Emma up.
“How are you, Roy?” Adam asked.
Roy studied the couple. Adam’s arm was around Emma as she leaned against him with a glazed look in her eyes.
“I heard about the commotion here. I saw you two through the window and wondered how you were,” Roy said.
“We’re fine. Just a customer causing Emma problems. I handled it,” Adam replied.
“All right. Let me know if I can help,” the sheriff said.
“We will,” Adam said smiling as Roy left.
“I thought you would have told Roy what happened,” Emma said.
“I will. Eventually,” Adam said smiling at her.
Emma gave him a small smile and straightened up.
“Will you be all right?” he asked.
“Eventually.”
“I want you to tell me when he comes near you. I don’t want him to hurt you in any way.”
“Why do you care what happens to me?” she snapped.
Adam looked at her in surprise. “Because you’re my friend,” he replied.
“Are you sure you’re not doing this to look good in front of the townspeople?”
“Emma, where are these questions coming from?” he asked gently and put his hands on her shoulders.
He felt Emma slump.
“I heard that you were helping me to make yourself look good and you really didn’t care about me,” she finally said.
“That is a lie. I have always cared about you, Emma. Ever since we were young. I’ve always wanted you to be my girl. I still do. I have an idea of who is gossiping and I don’t want you to listen to them. I want to protect you from Josh. I have a feeling he won’t leave you alone until he gets what he wants. Please, let me help you,” Adam said.
She looked in Adam’s eyes and saw the sincerity in them.
“You really want me to be your girl?” Emma asked in surprise.
Adam smiled and nodded. “Yes I do.”
She nodded and smiled. “All right then, I’ll be your girl.”
Chapter 3
Business was still booming for Emma as three months sped by. Adam and Emma kept their courtship quiet or as quiet as they could with Helen gossiping about the couple to whomever would listen. The only ones who knew were the Cartwrights. Josh continued to threaten Emma. Adam met Josh formally at work and told him to leave Emma alone. Josh ignored Adam and continued to go after Emma. She was scared because she knew what Josh was capable of. She looked over her shoulder wherever she went and could hardly sleep because of the nightmares that plagued her of being hurt by Josh.
Rumors about Adam and Emma continued to come through the store where Emma could hear them when she was hidden. She heard the gossips were saying that they were seeing each other but again, it was all in show for Adam. Rumors got vicious against Emma and never Adam. Emma hoped to forget those because they hurt. She didn’t say anything so as to not rock the boat and lose her business. She wondered if some of the gossipers knew where she was hiding and said it just for her ears. Adam was lucky he hadn’t heard them and wondered why he hadn’t but then remembered how two faced the women were so of course he wouldn’t hear them. Though they were courting, Emma felt jealous of the attention Adam gave the women. She berated herself by saying that Adam gave her just as much love and attention if not more.
While it was slow at the mercantile, Emma decided to check the mail and leave Adam in charge. There had been no mail for her so she headed back. There was an alley she had to pass near the bank and saloon when someone grabbed her. She was yanked into the dimly lit alley and slammed against the wall. Her eyes adjusted to the dark and she saw Josh in front of her.
“I thought I told you to stay away from that Cartwright fella. You are my girl.” he snarled.
Emma smelled liquor on his breath and turned her head away.
“You told me you stopped drinking. You lied.” She said bitterly.
“Don’t back talk to me.” he growled slamming her again against the wall again.
“I am no longer your girl. We are over. Get your hands off me.”
Emma started fighting back by hitting and scratching him. He became angry and started hitting her. She continued fighting but it was no use. He was bigger and stronger than she was. She fell to the ground where he proceeded to kick her in the ribs then he ran off.
Emma lay in the dirt not wanting to move because it hurt so much. She felt blood dripping out of her nose and saw blood soaking into the dirt. She slowly got up and grunted because of the pain that shot through her body. She held onto the wall and pulled herself up. She bent over in pain holding her ribs and began to walk. Carl McMurray was the first one to see Emma come out of the alley. He rushed to her and scooped her up. He didn’t ask questions and rushed to Doctor Martin’s office. After taking her to the doctor’s he ran to the mercantile to tell Adam. Adam got the customers out, closed the store and followed Carl. On their way, Adam stopped at the sheriff’s office and the men rushed to Paul’s office.
Adam, Carl and Roy waited for Paul to come out from the back to give them the news about Emma. The waiting was rough for Adam. He paced back and forth with impatience in the waiting room. Paul finally came out a half hour later.
“How is she?” Adam asked worriedly.
“Emma has some lacerations on her face, a sprained wrist, a concussion and cracked ribs. She needs to take it easy for a while. Take her to the Ponderosa so she won’t be tempted to work. Close the place up until she gets better,” Paul advised.
“I will. Thank you, Paul. Is she conscious?” Adam asked.
“Yes she is. Oh, here is something to help her with the pain and to sleep.” Paul said handing Adam a small brown bottle.
Adam, Roy and Carl went in to see Emma.
“How are you feeling?” Adam asked rushing to her side.
“I hurt.” Came the whisper.
“Emma, can you tell us what happened?” Roy asked.
She looked at the sheriff trying to recall what happened. She remembered and told them her story. Adam’s jaw tightened as he listened.
“Who’s Josh?” Roy asked.
Emma sighed but before she could speak Adam told the sheriff Emma’s story.
“I’ll lock him up if you want to press charges.” Roy said.
Emma looked at Adam uncertain and Adam looked back at her with a small smile.
“It’s up to you, Em.” Adam said.
She thought about it and fought the inner battle. Should she press charges or not? What would he do to her if he got out? But he had to be stopped. She had to live her life and not be afraid.
“I’ll press charges.” she finally said.
Emma told Roy what Josh looked like and said he was probably in the saloon. Roy nodded and left to find him.
“Get feeling better, Emma.” Carl said.
“Thank you, Carl.” Emma said.
“You’re welcome.” He smiled and left.
Adam turned to Emma.
“Paul says you are to close the store and take it easy. I’m taking you to the Ponderosa. I won’t hear any argument from you.” he said as she started to open her mouth to argue.
“Fine.” she grumbled.
“After you rest, you can pack a few things and we’ll go. I know you’re worried about the store but it’ll be fine to be closed for a while. If you want, I can come take care of it or get Hoss to help.”
“I am worried about the store. I feel like I’d be failing Jerry if I did close the store.”
“You aren’t failing him. If he were here he’d tell you to take it easy. I’m sure he’s proud of you for all you’ve done. It’s time you take some time for yourself. I saw you running ragged since you took over the store. I’ve also noticed that you haven’t slept. You’ll make yourself sick. So this would be a good chance to heal and have that time for yourself.”
Emma had been on the Ponderosa for a few weeks and was grateful for the time off from work. Adam and Hoss had taken turns taking care of the store and Emma. Joe tried to help but he was caught flirting with the pretty ladies coming in the store so Adam kicked him out. Joe was sent to help with the timber. Emma had felt safe at the Ponderosa. She was also getting cabin fever having to take it easy. She was happy when she was allowed to walk around the house. Adam helped her because she’d get tired fast.
One day when she was bringing in plates to set on the table as Hop Sing started supper, she overheard Adam talking to Ben.
“Pa, Roy told me today at the mercantile that Josh escaped last night. I can’t let Emma go back to town until Josh is caught. He’s gunning for Emma. We have to keep her here for protection. I know she won’t like it but I won’t let him hurt her again.” Adam said.
“We’ll do all we can. Let’s move her to the guest room upstairs so she’ll be safe.”
Adam nodded and said, “I’ll let Hoss and Joe know also.”
Emma had been holding her breath and started breathing again. Thoughts of Josh coming and attacking her ran through her head. Her hands started to shake and the plates fell to the ground. With the sound of breaking china, she was jolted back to reality and bent down to pick up the broken pieces. Adam and Ben heard the crash and turned to see Emma and rushed to her.
“Emma, are you all right?” Adam asked.
“Yes, I’m fine. I’m just clumsy with the dishes. I’m sorry for breaking the plates.” she apologized.
She picked up a piece and cut her right finger and quickly dropped the broken glass.
“Come on, let’s get that taken care of.” Ben said taking Emma’s injured hand.
“I need to pick up the mess I made.” Emma argued.
“Emma, I’ll pick it up. Let Adam tend to your cut.” Ben said firmly.
Adam helped her up and led her to the settee. He gathered a basin of water, cloth and a bandage.
Adam gently took care of Emma’s finger.
“You heard, didn’t you? That’s why you dropped the plates.” he said quietly.
“Yes, I heard.” she admitted, not looking at him.
The door opened and Hoss and Joe walked in laughing at something that was said outside but quickly sobered when they saw Adam taking care of Emma.
“What happened?” Hoss asked concerned.
“I cut myself.” Emma said.
“We need to talk.” Ben announced coming in the room after he cleaned up the broken plates.
“What’s wrong?” Joe wondered. When his father needed to talk it was usually because something was wrong.
“Josh escaped jail last night. Roy’s got a posse out right now. He didn’t want us to come so we could protect Emma.” Adam said.
Emma rested her head on the palm of her left hand trying to keep in the tears and not show her fear. Hoss and Joe went around and sat on either sides of Emma on settee. Hoss put a comforting arm around her.
“It’ll be all right. You don’t need to fret.” he said gently.
“I hope so, Hoss,” she whispered and gave him a small smile.
Adam still had a hold of her hand and gently gave her arm a squeeze to reassure she’d be all right.
Chapter 4
The Cartwrights figured Emma would be safe on the Ponderosa so Adam decided to take Emma on a picnic near the lake a couple of days later. He knew she was getting cabin fever and wanted to take her some place special. They drove to the lake in the buggy and set up the blanket after they got out. Emma was still careful getting around since her ribs were still sore and would give her pain at times. She pulled out of the basket fried chicken Hop Sing had made and the lemon meringue pie she had made. They enjoyed each others company while they ate and talked between bites. Afterwards they went for a walk and talked. They stopped by the lake and stood watching birds fly around. The lake was beautiful as the blue sky and tall mountains reflected off the shimmering water. The sounds of the water lapping against the shore was relaxing to Emma. She was grateful to be standing or she would have fallen asleep with the soothing sounds of the lake.
Adam watched Emma looking at the scenery in front of her. A slight breeze picked up, making wisps of her hair dance around her face. He had always loved this woman in front of him. He had tucked those feelings away when she had moved and he went on with life. Those feelings he had kept hidden inside came flooding back to him. Emma felt like Adam was watching her and she turned to look at him.
“What?” she asked self-consciously tucking the loose hair behind her ear.
“I’m just staring at the most beautiful girl I know.” he said.
Emma could feel her face grow hot.
“You’re just saying that.” she replied.
He moved closer. Emma’s heart started to beat fast as he neared her.
“No I’m not. Emma, I love you.” he whispered as he put a hand on her soft cheek.
“I love you too, Adam.” she whispered back leaning into his strong hand.
He looked at her and soaked her in. Her soft dark hair was pulled half up, the rest curled hanging down her shoulders. Her brown eyes sparkled as a small smile appeared on her face. He fell even more in love with her as he looked at her. He put his other hand on her cheek and leaned in, lightly brushed her lips then pressed harder as he kissed her.
Excitement washed over Emma. She had never felt this way when she was with Josh. They pulled away and Emma was breathless. She smiled shyly up at Adam. Adam got on one knee and pulled out a small diamond ring.
“Emma Harper, I have loved you for as long as I can remember. Will you marry me?”
“Yes Adam, I will.” she said happily.
Tears filled her eyes as he slid the ring on the appropriate finger. He got up, spun her around, set her down and kissed her again.
As they pulled away again a shot rang out and Adam fell to the ground unconscious.
“Adam!” She screamed.
She leaned over to check him but was grabbed by the arm and pulled away. Emma screamed and turned to see who was pulling her away. It was Josh. She tried fighting to get out of his grasp. Josh stopped and shook her.
“You will come with me. Now stop trying to get away.” he said angrily.
He yanked her hard as she tried to go to Adam and she felt her shoulder dislocate. She cried out in pain but he ignored her and pulled her with him.
Emma was taken to an abandoned cabin somewhere off the Ponderosa land. Josh pulled her in the house and slammed the door shut. He pushed her against the wall, his hands clenched on Emma’s wrists.
“You’ll marry me.” Josh said.
“I will not. I don’t love you anymore, Josh.” Emma argued.
“You will marry me. I still love and care for you.” His voice softened slightly.
“Yeah you have a fine way of showing it by killing Adam and hurting me.” Emma said sarcastically.
Josh grew angry with Emma’s backtalk and slapped her then leaned into her breathing on her face.
“I will have you for my wife.”
She moved her head to the side after smelling the alcohol on his breath. She wanted to throw up with the smell.
“You can keep me here forever or kill me but I will not marry you!” she muttered.
Josh pushed her to the floor and walked away. He took out the bottle of whiskey he had hidden in a cupboard and took a drink. Emma cradled her arm as she sat against the wall while trying to ignore the pain in her arm and her heart. The image of Adam being killed played cruelly in her mind. Tears silently slid down her face. She thought life wouldn’t be the same without Adam. What would she do? She’d still have the mercantile but those memories would hurt because wherever she turned she’d think of Adam. She would have to move. But she didn’t want to because of the memories that would haunt her forever. Life wasn’t worth it anymore. Not with seeing Adam being killed before her eyes over and over. That would never leave her.
Ben worried about his first born son and Emma. They should have been home by now. Adam had told his father they’d be home before sun down. He got up from his chair, looked out the window and saw the sun was starting to set. He felt something wasn’t right. He went to the table by the door that held their gun belts and put his gun belt on.
“Where are you going, Pa?” Hoss asked coming down the stairs.
“I’m going to find your brother and Emma. Adam said they’d be home before sunset and the sun is setting now. I’m worried about them.” Ben replied.
“I’ll go with you.” Hoss followed his father out and was met by Joe who had just come from doing chores in in the barn.
“Where are you two going?” Joe asked.
“We’re going to find Adam and Emma.” Hoss said.
The three men mounted up and followed the buggy tracks to find Adam and Emma.
After riding around for about an hour, they finally found Adam unconscious in the grass by the lake. They jumped off their horses and ran to him. Hoss was the first to get to his older brother. He saw dried blood on the back of Adam’s shirt. He ripped open the shirt and saw the bullet hole in his back.
“He’s been shot.” he announced.
Joe saw Adam was unarmed.
“Who could have done this? Where’s Emma?” he wondered aloud.
Adam moaned and opened his eyes.
“Hoss?” came the whisper.
“Adam, where’s Emma? What happened?” Hoss asked.
Adam closed his eyes. “I don’t know.”
“Josh. He could have found them. He shot Adam and kidnapped Emma. Joe, take Adam home and get the doctor.” Ben said.
“Pa, I want to go and find Emma,” Adam said struggling to get up.
“No, you can’t. You’ve been hurt bad. Hoss and I will find Emma.” Ben said.
Joe tied Cochise to the back of the buggy as Hoss helped Adam in the buggy and Joe carefully got in, careful not to bump Adam and headed for the house. Ben and Hoss jumped on their horses and followed the tracks they saw that would lead to Emma and Josh.
After Joe got home, he sent Hop Sing to fetch Doctor Paul Martin. Hop Sing and Paul sped to the Ponderosa. Paul did surgery on Adam and successfully removed the bullet.
“Adam will be all right. Just keep him down,” Paul advised.
“With him being unconscious right now he’ll stay down. I know when he wakes he’ll want to go find Emma.” Joe said.
“Let’s just hope your father and brother will find her before he wakes. If he does, give him some of this and he’ll stay down.” Paul handed Joe laudanum and headed back to Virginia City.
Joe went up to sit with Adam. He sat on a chair he moved closer to his brother. He rested his elbows on his knees as he clasped his hands together and leaned against them. Joe said a silent prayer for his brother to get better and for Emma’s safety.
Chapter 5
As the sun sank behind the mountains, so did Emma’s heart. She didn’t think she’d be found but she had hoped. She was afraid she’d be held prisoner here forever. She had tried to escape but Josh had grabbed her and beat her while yelling obscenities and threatening her life. She was sitting in a corner holding her arm that still throbbed in pain. She couldn’t sleep because she was afraid of what he’d do to her and also her arm if she slept. He would jerk awake at times during the night to see if she was still there.
Hoss and Ben rode until the sun started to sink and decided to set up camp for the evening.
“I hope Adam is all right.” Hoss said as he laid his head on his saddle and looked at the star-filled sky.
“I’m sure he is. It’s Emma I’m worried about. I’m sure it was Josh who shot Adam and right in front of Emma. She probably thinks he’s dead and is probably giving up. I hope we’ll find her tomorrow.” Ben replied.
“I do too. I don’t know what Adam would do if she was dead.”
They fell silent lost in their thoughts trying to not think of that alternative. She was all right. They’d both believed it but prayed all the same that she was alive and all right as they fell asleep.
The father and son set out early the next morning to resume their search. About midday they came upon an abandoned cabin and stopped. They saw a horse not too far from the cabin grazing in the grass and knew someone was there. They slipped off their horses and started to tiptoe to the cabin. They didn’t want to make noises and arouse the occupants. Hoss looked through a window that didn’t have curtains covering the window. He saw whom he figured was Josh sleeping. Emma had described Josh to the rest of the Cartwright men two days before.
“He’s in there.” Hoss whispered.
“We’ll kick down the door and surprise him.” Ben said.
They both pulled their guns out of their holsters. Ben counted to three and Hoss kicked open the door causing Josh to jump in surprise fumbling for his gun that was in his lap.
“Put it down.” Hoss ordered.
Josh dropped his gun.
“I’ll find Emma and you stay with Josh.” Hoss ordered.
Ben nodded at his son and kept his gun on Josh.
Hoss went into the room to the left to look for Emma. He found her in a corner, her head bobbing up and down as she tried to fight to stay awake.
“Emma.” He said slightly shaking her.
Emma’s eyes flew open and in terror because she thought it was Josh. She looked up and saw Hoss. She breathed a sigh of relief.
“Hello, Hoss.” She replied.
“Are you all right?”
“My arm hurts. It’s dislocated. My ribs hurt too.”
He knew that her ribs still hadn’t healed all the way. He took her kerchief and put it in her mouth to bite on.
“I’m going to put your arm back into place. It’s going to hurt.” He said.
Emma braced herself as he jammed her arm back in her socket. She cried out in pain and passed out. He ripped the bottom of her petticoat and tied it around her shoulder to hold her arm still. He carefully picked her up and carried her to the front room where Ben and Josh were waiting.
“Is she all right?” Ben asked seeing her unconscious in Hoss’ arms.
“Yeah she’s fine. Her shoulder was dislocated so I had to get it back in. She passed out.” Hoss said.
They started to walk out but Josh pulled out of Ben’s grasp and found his gun on the floor. He pointed it at Ben. Ben was slow to react to Josh.
“You won’t take me in.” Josh said.
“Put down the gun. We will take you in.” Ben replied.
“No, you won’t. Give me back my girl. Emma is mine!”
“No, she isn’t. She told us the story.”
Hoss watched the exchange while holding Emma. He didn’t dare move. He saw Josh turn his gun from Ben to Hoss.
“She’ll die before anyone can have her.” Josh said.
Hoss turned his body to protect Emma just as Josh pulled the trigger. Hoss felt the bullet graze his arm and wanted to drop Emma because of the throbbing pain in his arm but he held her tight.
Another shot sounded as Josh’s gun sounded and Josh fell down dead. Smoke curled out of Ben’s gun.
“Come on, let’s get Emma home.” Hoss said.
“Go ahead, I’ll bury him.” Ben said.
Hoss nodded then woke Emma up so she could get on his horse. She held onto the pommel as Hoss got on behind her and held her tight with his right arm so she wouldn’t fall off.
“Hoss?” Emma whispered.
“Yes?”
“I’m sorry about Adam.” She then passed out before Hoss could tell her Adam was fine.
He held onto her as he got Chubb to walk. He was careful not to knock her around as he tried to hurry home.
Paul looked over Hoss and Emma then spoke to Joe, Ben and Hoss. Hoss had his arm in a sling.
“Hoss, you did a good job of putting Emma’s arm back in. She’s not doing very well though. It seems like she’s lost the will to live. Adam is doing well. Just don’t let him get up and do too much. I’ll check on them later.” Paul said then left.
“Why has she lost the will to live?” Ben asked.
“It’s because of Adam.” Hoss replied after thinking about his father’s question.
“What do you mean?” Joe asked looking at his brother in confusion.
“She saw Adam shot and thought he was dead. The last thing she told me before she passed out was that she was sorry about Adam.”
“Let’s get Adam in her room and talking to her. Maybe that’ll help her.” Ben suggested.
Hoss was the first to jump up and sped to his brother’s room.
Adam was asleep when Hoss came in. He didn’t want to wake him but he had to. It was important.
“Adam?” Hoss whispered.
Adam eyes slowly opened and looked at his brother.
“What’s wrong? Have you found Emma? Is she safe?” The words tumbled out of his mouth.
He tried sitting up but grimaced because of the pain.
“Hold on, Adam. Yes, we found her. She’s got a shoulder injury but her spirit is low. Paul says she doesn’t have the will to live anymore.” Hoss said.
“What? Why?”
“Because she thinks you’re dead.”
Adam flung blankets back and tried to get out of bed. He was hit with pain and stopped as he became dizzy.
“Slow down, Older Brother. I’ll help you.” Hoss said carefully helping his brother out of bed.
Hoss held onto Adam with his good arm as Adam leaned against him hoping not to fall over.
Joe and Ben were in Emma’s room sitting on either side of her.
“How is she?” Adam asked as he and Hoss walked in.
“No change.” Ben replied.
He got out of the chair and Hoss helped Adam sit in the now empty chair.
“May I be alone with her?” Adam asked.
His father and brothers quietly left. Adam turned to Emma and held her hand. He looked at her. She had her arm in a sling, bandages on her face that covered her cuts, her left eye was bruised. Adam saw her chest slowly moving up and down but hated seeing her hurt and unconscious. He did notice his ring was still on her finger. He smiled slightly to himself.
“Emma?” He whispered.
She didn’t move or respond and it scared Adam. He kept hold of her hand as he continued to call her name.
Emma heard Adam’s voice. But it seemed far away, muffled as if she was under water. She looked around her but it was dark. She tried to call out but she couldn’t form her words. If he was here to take her to heaven she wanted to see him. She heard him call her again. She grunted hoping he’d hear her.
Adam heard the grunt and moved closer to Emma.
“Emma, come back to me.” He said, tightening his grip on her hand.
Emma moved her head and frowned. She fought to open her eyes. They felt weighed down.
“Emma.” Came the strained plea.
“Adam.” She finally whispered.
Adam heard the whisper and grinned.
“Please wake up. Please come back to me.” He pleaded as he put his hand on her tousled hair.
Emma’s eyes fluttered open and looked at Adam.
“Adam, you’re alive.” Tears sprang to her eyes.
“Yes I am alive.” He said smiling and wiping the tears from her cheeks.
“I saw you shot. I thought you were dead.”
“He got me in the side but no vital organs. I wanted to go with Hoss and Pa to find you but they wouldn’t let me.” Adam chuckled.
“I’m glad you didn’t. I wouldn’t want you hurt worse.”
“I worried about you when I saw you. Paul said you were giving up. Hoss knew it was because you saw me shot. At least we don’t have to worry about Josh. I heard what happened.” Adam said.
“What about Josh?” Emma asked.
Her heart tightened thinking he’d come back for her and her breath caught in her throat.
“Pa killed him. He shot Hoss trying to kill you and Pa got Josh.”
“Hoss got hurt? Is he all right?” Emma asked as her throat began to loosen.
“Hoss is fine. It was just a crease.”
Hoss, Joe and Ben walked in a few moments later and saw Emma and Adam talking.
“It’s good to see you awake.” Ben said.
Emma struggled to sit up with one arm and Adam helped her.
“We were all worried about you.” Hoss said.
“Adam told me what the doctor said. Thank you for rescuing me.” Emma replied.
“It was nothing. We’re just glad you’re awake and safe. We worried about you.”
“We’ll get Hop sing to bring up some broth for you.” Ben said.
“Thank you.”
The three Cartwright’s filed out leaving Adam and Emma alone again.
“You have a wonderful family.” She complemented.
“That I do and they’ll be your family soon.” Adam said smiling at her.
Emma smiled at the thought then frowned with another thought that came to mind.
“I couldn’t take my ring off when I thought you were dead. Josh tried but I fought him off.”
“Is that how you got the dislocated shoulder?”
Emma told him her story. Adam was angry at Josh for how he treated her. He made a promise to himself to always keep her safe.
Adam and Emma recovered and prepared for the wedding. Adam and his brothers built a house for the couple on the Ponderosa. They married after the house was completed. Emma couldn’t believe that the love she had for Adam when they were children would come back and she’d marry him. Adam felt the same way.
From the Brandsters. The story was originally written and published on the Bonanza Trail Riders site. Brand is happy to offer this story a new home.
