{"id":12058,"date":"2014-04-27T13:06:18","date_gmt":"2014-04-27T17:06:18","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/?p=12058"},"modified":"2025-02-18T19:13:02","modified_gmt":"2025-02-19T00:13:02","slug":"in-the-pines-by-barbara","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/?p=12058","title":{"rendered":"In the Pines (by Barbara)"},"content":{"rendered":"

Summary:<\/strong> \u00a0 Is the grass really greener on the other side of the fence?\u00a0\u00a0 It all depends on one’s perspective.
\n<\/strong><\/p>\n

Rating:\u00a0 K+\u00a0 (4,440 words)<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

In the Pines<\/strong><\/p>\n

\u201cAnything the matter, son?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cAh, no Pa.\u201d Adam replied vacantly. \u201cI\u2019m fine.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cYou certainly have been quiet these last few weeks.\u201d<\/p>\n

Adam only responded to his father\u2019s observation with a brief grin.<\/p>\n

\u201cAre you feeling alright? Are you ill?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cNo, no. Nothing like that.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cAdam.\u201d Ben\u2019s voice was low and forceful.<\/p>\n

\u201cYes Pa?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cI know you better than anyone on God\u2019s green earth. You can\u2019t hide from me. I know when something is on your mind.\u201d Ben looked at his eldest boy from beneath his dark and rather substantial brow. \u201cAnd\u2026 there is something on your mind.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cIt\u2019s nothing,\u201d Adam reassured. \u201cI\u2019m fine, really.\u201d<\/p>\n

Adam rose from the chair that stood at the base of the broad-beamed staircase in the great room of the Ponderosa ranch house. He\u2019d been sitting there all evening. He read no book. He had no financial statements in front of him to study, not even a drafting of his latest building to perfect. After Joe and Hoss had gone to bed, Adam simply sat there, stone-faced. He stared off into the fire that always flickered beyond the hearth. Ben couldn\u2019t help but notice his son\u2019s obvious distance.<\/p>\n

As Ben watched Adam methodically ascend the stairs, he felt a sudden surge of concern. In the past, Adam had always confided in him when he was troubled. Adam\u2019s recent silence worried him. Adam was blatantly burdened with unrest, leaving Ben feeling helpless. But, Ben pondered, his eldest was a grown man and capable of solving most quandaries on his own.<\/p>\n

With a nasally sigh, Adam entered his darkened bedroom. It reflected his mood. He crossed the hardwood quietly and lit the lamp beside his bed. Then, wearily, he sat on the edge of it and placed his elbows on his knees and his face in his hands. He massaged his eyes for a few moments before laying back flat. He kept one foot firmly planted on the ground. The back of his right wrist rested gently on his forehead while his left hand draped casually over his abdomen. He stared blankly at the ceiling. A soft knock at his door interrupted his trance.<\/p>\n

\u201cAdam?\u201d Ben said through the heavy oak door. \u201cAdam? I\u2019d like to talk to you, son. May I come in?\u201d<\/p>\n

Adam sat up. His head sank between his shoulders and bobbed with melancholy. He closed his eyes as tightly as they would go. He was going to have to break. It was just as well. He couldn\u2019t hold it in any longer. He braced himself. \u201cAh, sure Pa. Come on in,\u201d he replied as he clenched the edge of the mattress.<\/p>\n

Ben cracked the door open and peeked in before entering the room. Tentatively, he walked over to the chair that sat in front of Adam\u2019s drafting table. The two men did not make eye contact and both held their positions until Ben finally broke the silence.<\/p>\n

\u201cIs there anything I can do to help?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cHelp?\u201d Adam replied, still trying to shield himself.<\/p>\n

\u201cI don\u2019t want to pry,\u201d Ben assured. \u201cBut, I want you to know that I will always be here for you, no matter what. You do know that, don\u2019t you?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cYes.\u201d Adam had yet to look at his father. \u201cI know.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cHave you and Joseph had words again? Are you two still arguing about north and south?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cNo sir,\u201d Adam answered shortly.<\/p>\n

It was obvious to Ben that this conversation was going nowhere. It was true. He did know his boy like the back of his own hand. So he knew that Adam was only going to open up to him when Adam was good and ready. With an affable shrug, Ben stood to leave. \u201cWell, good night then,\u201d he said resignedly. \u201cTry and get some rest.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cPa?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cYes Adam?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019m\u2026 I don\u2019t know what\u2019s wrong with me.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cOh?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cI just feel\u2026lost.\u201d Adam finally divulged.<\/p>\n

Ben\u2019s complexion changed from mild vexation to despondency. His heart sank. He shoved both hands into his pants pockets and sat back down. \u201cI\u2019m terribly sorry to hear you say that Adam. I thought you were happy here.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cI thought I was too, Pa.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cSo what has brought on this unfortunate revelation?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cThis.\u201d<\/p>\n

Adam help up a well-read letter. The paper was crumpled and worn, and had obviously spent time in a back pocket. He handed it to his father. \u201cIt\u2019s from Daniel Briggs,\u201d Adam announced.<\/p>\n

\u201cDaniel Briggs, Daniel Briggs,\u201d Ben repeated as if saying the name over and over would jog his memory.<\/p>\n

\u201cMy college roommate.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cAh yes, Daniel Briggs,\u201d Ben said with a wide smile. \u201cAnd, this letter from Dan has upset you?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cNo\u2026well, yes. I guess it has.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cOh? How so?\u201d Ben looked at the letter bewildered.<\/p>\n

\u201cHe has his own architectural firm in New York. He\u2019s working with some of the top men in his field. He\u2019s married, with two children. He\u2019s got it all, Pa. He\u2019s got everything I ever wanted.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019m sorry, son; I don\u2019t know what to say.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cI don\u2019t think I\u2019m cut out to be a cattleman, Pa,\u201d Adam stated boldly. He shook his head woefully. \u201cI\u2019ve come to the realization that I\u2019m just not happy.\u201d<\/p>\n

Adam\u2019s declaration hit Ben in the gut like a sledgehammer. It rendered him speechless. He could do nothing but stare at the floor to try and regain his composure.<\/p>\n

\u201cIt\u2019s not you. Or Hoss or Little Joe. It\u2019s me. I just don\u2019t feel fulfilled. I, well, I guess I just need more than chasing steers, fixing fences and honing trees.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cWhy didn\u2019t you say anything before, Adam?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cI didn\u2019t want to let you down. I didn\u2019t want you to be disappointed in me.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cDisappointed?\u201d Ben\u2019s tone reeked of absurdity. \u201cYour unhappiness disappoints me, son. All I want for you is to be content with whatever you choose to be. You have to find yourself and what completes you as a man, Adam. If you don\u2019t, then that is when I will be let down. My son\u2019s happiness is paramount. Don\u2019t you know that, Adam? Don\u2019t you know that whatever makes you happy will make me happy too?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cI guess so.\u201d Adam didn\u2019t sound convinced.<\/p>\n

\u201cAdam. If you want to go -\u2013 leave the Ponderosa — if you need to find a new life for yourself in New York or wherever, I want you to. You have my blessing. Don\u2019t let my dreams become yours by default. Please, son. I only want what is best for you.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cI don\u2019t know, Pa., Adam replied with desperation. Ben could tell he was torn. \u201cI don\u2019t know what I should do.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cDo whatever your heart is telling you to do.\u201d Ben\u2019s plea was avid. \u201cDo you want to go to New York and work with Daniel?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cYes\u2026no\u2026I don\u2019t know. I only know one thing for certain.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cWhat\u2019s that?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cMy ambivalence.\u201d He chuckled dryly.<\/p>\n

\u201cThere is another thing you can be certain of Adam,\u201d Ben offered.<\/p>\n

\u201cWhat?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cThat your brothers and I love you and support you in whatever you choose to do.\u201d<\/p>\n

Adam finally looked up at his father. He had to smile. His father was right. His family did care about him. He was sure of that.<\/p>\n

\u201cWell, might I suggest something?\u201d Ben continued.<\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019m all ears, Pa.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cGet away. Take a trip. Think it through with a clear head without me or your brothers around to distract you. If you are not happy here, then you shouldn\u2019t be here. Maybe you\u2019ll find what you are looking for\u2026elsewhere.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019m sorry, Pa.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cDon\u2019t be sorry, Adam.\u201d Ben\u2019s voice was strong and powerful. \u201cBe glad that you\u2019ve discovered something important about yourself.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cOh. What\u2019s that?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cThat you have no limits, Adam. You have the luxury of being whatever you want. It is a rare thing. I don\u2019t want you to feel that you are wasting your life. You of all people can be absolutely anything. Maybe even President someday, eh?\u201d Ben beamed with pride.<\/p>\n

\u201cThanks, Pa. I hadn\u2019t thought about it that way before.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cNow, tomorrow morning, I suggest you get on your horse and go and find your happiness. Go and find out who Adam Cartwright really is. You\u2019ll see. The answer will come. It may take time, but it will come. I hope, in the end, your search brings you back home. But, if it doesn\u2019t, I will understand. You are my son, Adam, and you always will be.\u201d<\/p>\n

**********<\/p>\n

\u201cHey! Where\u2019s Adam going?\u201d Joe asked as he stood at the front door\u2019s threshold. He had heard a horse and went to investigate, hoping it might be his new girlfriend. He munched on a piece of toast as he watched his brother ride away.<\/p>\n

\u201cHe\u2019s got his guitar strapped to his back and everything. He looks like he\u2019s running away from home,\u201d Joe chortled.<\/p>\n

\u201cCome and sit, Joseph. I need to talk to both of you.\u201d<\/p>\n

Ben and Hoss sat at the breakfast table. Hoss had barely noticed that his family was missing one. He was more focused on Hop Sing\u2019s biscuits and strawberry jam. Ben had no appetite.<\/p>\n

Joe obliged his father\u2019s request and returned to the table. He was somewhat disturbed by his tone and his brother\u2019s sudden retreat. \u201cWhat is it, Pa? Where is Adam going?\u201d Joe asked with apprehension.<\/p>\n

\u201cI don\u2019t know.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cDon\u2019t know?\u201d Hoss finally joined in. \u201cWhat do you mean you don\u2019t know?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cIt seems your brother has a problem.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cWhat\u2019s the matter with him?\u201d Hoss said with all his attention.<\/p>\n

\u201cWell, in recent weeks, he\u2019s discovered he isn\u2019t satisfied with his life out here.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cSatisfied?\u201d Joe sounded perplexed. \u201cIt\u2019s just plain, hard work, Pa. What is unsatisfying about that?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cNothing for you and me. But Adam isn\u2019t like you and me.\u201d<\/p>\n

Both Joe and Hoss gazed at their father begging the question.<\/p>\n

\u201cAdam needs\u2026 stimulation in order to be happy. He needs to be challenged.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cAre you sayin\u2019 that Adam ain\u2019t happy here on the Ponderosa, Pa?\u201d Hoss seemed shocked. It was paradise to him.<\/p>\n

\u201cWell, yes. That is what I\u2019m saying.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cThen where is he going?\u201d Joe asked.<\/p>\n

\u201cSomewhere, anywhere\u2026nowhere.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cWell, is he coming back?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cI don\u2019t know, son. I truly don\u2019t know.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019m going after him,\u201d Joe announced as he threw his napkin on his plate. He stood to leave.<\/p>\n

\u201cNo, no, Joseph.\u201d Ben grabbed his youngest by the forearm. \u201cI\u2019m afraid there is nothing we can do about it. This is something Adam is going to have to deal with on his own.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cBut he didn\u2019t even say good-bye,\u201d Joe murmured sorrowfully.<\/p>\n

\u201cHe asked me to say good-bye for him. I\u2019m afraid your older brother is not one for sentiment.\u201d Ben rested his elbows on the table and laced his fingers tightly together. He placed his lips on his knuckles and shook his head. Anxiety was etched on his face.<\/p>\n

Joe retook his seat. \u201cIt\u2019s alright Pa.\u201d Joe comforted. \u201cAdam will be back. You know him. He just needs a little time away is all.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cI hope so, Joe. I really hope so.\u201d<\/p>\n

**********<\/p>\n

Adam decided to let Sport take the lead. Whatever direction his horse took, Adam would oblige.<\/p>\n

He felt bad about leaving without explaining his situation to Hoss and Joe. He at least owed them that. But he couldn\u2019t do it. He planned to have breakfast with them and tell them his vague plans. At the last moment, he chickened out and asked Ben to break the news.<\/p>\n

Adam fully expected to see Joe chasing after him, but he never did. Strangely, that disappointed him. Even though he\u2019d only been separated from his family for less than two hours, he missed them already.<\/p>\n

But he surged forward -\u2013 straight ahead. What was in store for him, he hadn\u2019t a clue. His future was now a blank slate. That both terrified and invigorated him. Where his journey would end was a mystery. Would he ever return to his Nevada home? Unknown.<\/p>\n

**********<\/p>\n

Adam was virtually unrecognizable in his brand new suit. He arrived in New York City several days ago and felt out of place without his usual western wear. His familiar black ensemble was now hanging neatly in his hotel room. It took Adam a few days to get used to donning such a businesslike exterior. He was so used to being dirty with the honest soil and sweat of a proud cattleman. But those days were now far behind him.<\/p>\n

Once Adam had reached Sault Lake City, he\u2019d made up his mind to board the train to New York. If he didn\u2019t, he thought, how would he know where he really belonged? He\u2019d wired his family to tell them of his plans and to expect shipment of his horse Sport back to the ranch.<\/p>\n

As he found himself walking the cobbled streets of the big city, the crowds of people swarmed around him. They all seemed to be in such a hurry. Adam wasn\u2019t sure what could cause such urgency. At one point, a man bumped right into him, almost knocking Adam off his feet. The man only scoffed at Adam, telling him to get out of the way. After such a long journey, Adam was now having second thoughts. The people here were not the sort of folks he was used to.<\/p>\n

Now, with a mixture of trepidation and excitement, he made his way down the avenue toward Daniel Briggs\u2019 office. The modern buildings, some with over ten stories, towered over him, making Adam feel quite insignificant. He reached the address and entered into a magnificent foyer with marble floors and ornate fixtures. An elevator awaited him directly ahead. Adam had only been in an elevator once before in San Francisco, but not one as fancy as this. He pushed the button and rode up to the 8th<\/sup> floor where a young receptionist sat behind a massive, oak desk. It dwarfed her.<\/p>\n

\u201cAdam Cartwright to see Daniel Briggs, please, Miss.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cOne moment,\u201d she replied curtly.<\/p>\n

The woman then stood and quietly escorted Adam to a large boardroom. The center table had to be 30 feet long and made of an exotic wood. It was most impressive, and all of a sudden Adam felt intimidated. His uneasiness with all of this pomp filled every pore of his being.<\/p>\n

\u201cMr. Briggs will be right in, Mr. Cartwright.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cThank you.\u201d<\/p>\n

Adam made a sour face when she left the room. He found her attitude terse.<\/p>\n

\u201cI wonder who stole her puppy?\u201d he muttered sarcastically under his breath.<\/p>\n

He perused the expensive artwork collection that covered the mahogany walls and helped himself to a glass of water. Apparently, only the finest crystal was acceptable. This was a bit much, he thought. His apprehension was abruptly interrupted when his old pal burst through the boardroom doors.<\/p>\n

\u201cADAM CARTWRIGHT!!\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cDANNY BOY!!\u201d<\/p>\n

The two men embraced and slapped each other on the back with great enthusiasm.<\/p>\n

\u201cI was so glad to get your letter.\u201d Daniel said. \u201cWhat took you so long? We could use a good man like you!\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cWell, the family business and all. You know.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cI don\u2019t know how you live in that God-forsaken place.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cThe West isn\u2019t all THAT bad, Dan. You need to get out there and see for yourself.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cNo thanks,\u201d Daniel scoffed. \u201cI\u2019m glad you finally saw the light. Let me show you to your new office. Then I\u2019ll introduce you to everyone. Tonight I\u2019ll take you home with me, and we\u2019ll have dinner and catch up. Julia and the children can\u2019t wait to meet you,\u201d Daniel gushed. \u201cThey\u2019ve heard so many stories about our escapades in college.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cThey were good times.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cThe good times are just about to begin my friend. Welcome.\u201d<\/p>\n

**********<\/p>\n

Adam sipped his coffee as he watched Dan\u2019s wife Julia enter the dining room with a delicious-looking cake. It looked very white and prime. It was almost too pretty to cut into, but she did in the most businesslike way. Adam sat across from Dan\u2019s two children, David and Katherine, who seemed quite stern. They had little to say, even if they were only 9 and 6 years of age. Adam wondered why they were so unchildlike, almost sad. He was used to happy, boisterous children \u2013- he liked them that way.<\/p>\n

\u201cSo, tell me about school, David.\u201d Adam asked the young boy. \u201cWhat are you studying?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cNothing.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cNothing? You must be learning something?\u201d<\/p>\n

David did not respond, making Adam feel, yet again, uncomfortable. He sensed discord in this family, but couldn\u2019t quite put his finger on what exactly was wrong. He\u2019d never experienced a family dynamic quite like this before.<\/p>\n

\u201cAh, what about you, Katherine?\u201d Adam turned his attention to the little girl, trying to engage her in some sort of conversation. \u201cAre you enjoying school?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cNo,\u201d she replied sharply. \u201cI HATE school.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cHate school? Well, I\u2019ve never heard of such a thing. What is it about school that you dislike?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cNever mind, Katie.\u201d Daniel interrupted. \u201cYou both get to your rooms and get ready for bed now. It\u2019s getting late.\u201d<\/p>\n

Without a murmur of protest, the two children stood and moved slowing toward the staircase and up to their respective rooms.<\/p>\n

Adam took a bite of his cake, not knowing how to avoid the awkwardness of the situation. Julia seemed oblivious to any tension. Judging from her demeanor, it looked like this was normal behavior. She was barely cordial and had little personality or contentment.<\/p>\n

\u201cLet\u2019s retire to the den, Adam.\u201d Daniel suggested. \u201cI have some wonderful brandy, and a cigar if you smoke.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cSounds great,\u201d Adam said with relief. \u201cThank you so much for the dinner, Julia. It was delicious. Hop Sing couldn\u2019t have done better.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cWhat\u2019s a Hop Sing?\u201d She asked with subtle disgust.<\/p>\n

\u201cOh. Sorry. He\u2019s our cook back home. Wonderful man when he\u2019s not complaining.\u201d Adam laughed.<\/p>\n

\u201cIf you say so.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cWell\u2026 shall we?\u201d Dan said as he stood and gestured toward the den.<\/p>\n

Adam was taken aback by Julia\u2019s condescending tone. Had he done something to make her so dismissive? He pondered as he followed Dan into the next room.<\/p>\n

\u201cYou\u2019ll have to forgive my family Adam.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cOh?\u201d he said as if he hadn\u2019t noticed the obvious distress.<\/p>\n

\u201cTruth is, old buddy, we\u2019re in trouble. Julia is not very happy with me these days.\u201d<\/p>\n

Daniel and Adam sat in opposite leather chairs that faced each other. Between them stood a stone fireplace, and above it, a mantel that held a myriad of expensive trinkets. Daniel poured two glasses of only the best brandy money could buy and handed one to Adam. \u201cCigar?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cDon\u2019t mind if I do.\u201d<\/p>\n

The men light their stogies and then waited for someone to start up the conversation again.<\/p>\n

\u201cSo, ah\u2026 how are you liking it out here Adam?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cIt\u2019s different.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cHow so?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cOh, you know\u2026 New York is not Virginia City. More people\u2026 more of everything. It\u2019s a bit overwhelming.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cI can image.\u201d<\/p>\n

Again, the small talk dried up and again each man awaited the next round. But Adam had little patience for small talk. As a matter of fact, he disliked it a great deal. \u201cLook Dan.\u201d Adam began. \u201cWhat\u2019s going on here?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cGoing on?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cYou have a very nice home, a beautiful wife and children. Why is everyone so unhappy?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cOh. You noticed.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cIt\u2019s hard not to.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cIt\u2019s complicated, Adam. And, I must say a little embarrassing.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cDan. We\u2019ve known each other for almost twenty years. You can talk to me about anything. You know that.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cWell, to be frank\u2026 the business is failing and I\u2019m about to lose this house.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cWhat?\u201d Adam said as he sat up straight in his chair and rested his elbows on his knees. He cradled his brandy sniffer in both hands.<\/p>\n

\u201cJulia\u2019s father loaned me the money to start the firm and for a down payment on this house. He thinks I\u2019m a failure and refuses to help. If I can\u2019t find a substantial amount of money, all of this will be gone. Julia and I have been arguing and it\u2019s affected the children, I\u2019m afraid. \u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cI see,\u201d Adam said thoughtfully.<\/p>\n

Daniel stared at his friend waiting for Adam to chime in and rescue him.<\/p>\n

\u201cAnd, you want me to give you said amount of money?\u201d Adam asked with trepidation.<\/p>\n

\u201cNo no. I want you to become my partner and invest in the firm.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cWhy would I invest in a company that is all but bankrupt?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cBecause I know we can make it work. With you, we can continue.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cYou mean with MY money, YOU can continue.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cIt\u2019s not like that, Adam.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cAnd just how much money are we talking here, Dan?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cOne hundred thousand dollars.\u201d Daniel replied bluntly.<\/p>\n

\u201cONE HUNDRED THOUSAND DOLLARS!! I don\u2019t have that kind of money.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cBut, you have the ranch. All that land. You could get it.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cThe ranch belongs to my father. I can\u2019t ask him to mortgage land to fund your endeavors. The Ponderosa is my family\u2019s future. We\u2019ve worked hard to build something great. Besides, my father would never agree to it and I wouldn\u2019t want him to.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cBut Adam…you\u2019re my last hope.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cIs this why you asked me out here, Dan? You were never interested in my talent as an architect, were you? You just wanted to make me your partner so you could get at my money. Shame on you.\u201d Adam fought desperately to suppress his temper. He stood to leave but Daniel held him back.<\/p>\n

\u201cNo. No Adam. I know you\u2019re a talented architect and you\u2019re a great businessman too. You were the only person I could think of that could help me and my family. I have two children to support Adam. Please. Please help me!\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cI won\u2019t be emotionally bribed, Dan. I thought you were my friend. The fact that you have invited me here under false pretenses makes me furious. Do you know what I left behind? Do you?\u201d<\/p>\n

Daniel unhanded Adam and sat back down in defeat.<\/p>\n

\u201cI left my home for you. I left my family and friends. When I got your letter, you made me feel like I was wasting my life. That you had a successful firm out here and that you wanted me for my friendship and what I could offer professionally. Well, I\u2019ve been had and I don\u2019t mind saying that I\u2019ll never forgive you for this outrageous charade — expensive brandy and mahogany boardrooms. Your greed and pretentiousness disgusts me. I\u2019m sorry that you have gotten yourself into this situation, Dan, but you have made your bed and now you must lie in it.\u201d<\/p>\n

With his final word, Adam left Daniel\u2019s home and returned to his hotel room.<\/p>\n

**********<\/p>\n

Adam removed his coat, balled it up and threw it onto the side chair. He was livid that Daniel had betrayed him and lured him so far from home. He was angry that he had allowed himself to be led. It was out of character.<\/p>\n

Once his rage was under control, he sank into his bed and struggled with what to do next. The city outside his window still surged and the noise from the street was loud and grating. Adam sprang to his feet, lunged at the window and slammed it closed. \u201cDAMN!\u201d he hissed.<\/p>\n

The truth was slowly coming to light. The truth was\u2026he missed home. His father was right. Only being away from it has proven its true worth. He missed the smell of his father\u2019s pipe. He missed Hoss\u2019 silly escapades and Joe\u2019s impish charm. He missed Hop Sing\u2019s peach cobbler. He began to long for shade cast by a massive pine tree and the crystal waters of the Lake Tahoe. Adam missed his horse.<\/p>\n

The next day he would book passage back to Nevada.<\/p>\n

**********<\/p>\n

\u201cHave you heard anything from Adam lately, Pa?\u201d Hoss asked as he, his father and brother stood from the dinner table and took their usual places in the living room.<\/p>\n

\u201cNo. I haven\u2019t,\u201d Ben answered. \u201cI was just thinking that that brother of yours has been lax with his correspondence.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cHe\u2019s probably just busy, Pa. New city, new job,\u201d Hoss said casually.<\/p>\n

\u201cI suppose.\u201d<\/p>\n

The trio\u2019s chat was disrupted by a quiet knock at the front door.<\/p>\n

\u201cI wonder who that could be?\u201d Ben glanced at the clock. \u201cIt\u2019s a little late for visiting isn\u2019t it?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019ll get it, Pa,\u201d Joe offered as he stood and sank his teeth into an apple at the same time. He approached the door nonchalantly and opened it.<\/p>\n

\u201cAre my ears burning?\u201d Adam quarried as he poked his head around the corner.<\/p>\n

\u201cADAM!\u201d Joe said boisterously. \u201cPA! IT\u2019S ADAM!\u201d<\/p>\n

Both Ben and Hoss jumped to their feet and rushed to welcome Adam home.<\/p>\n

**********<\/p>\n

\u201cSo?\u201d Ben inquired. \u201cTell me more about your adventure. It\u2019s been seven months. I honestly didn\u2019t think I\u2019d ever set eyes on you again, son.\u201d<\/p>\n

Joe and Hoss had retired for the night when father and son sat to catch up properly. Adam took his place on the coffee table and poked at the logs in the fireplace. His was his favorite spot.<\/p>\n

\u201cI was a fool, Pa. And, I don\u2019t mind admitting it,\u201d Adam divulged. \u201cWhat an ass I have been.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cWhat are you talking about? You just had a touch of wanderlust. Most men feel that at some point in their lives. There must have been something positive come out of your trip across the country.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cThe only thing positive about my trip is returning home.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cSo New York proved to be unfulfilling then?\u201d<\/p>\n

Adam raised his feet and swiveled his way to face his father. \u201cThe only reason Daniel sent that letter was to try and get money out of me. His business is all but bankrupt. His family life is in shambles. And I thought he had it all.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cThe fact is, it\u2019s you that has everything, eh?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cI have learned that through all this. Yes, I do have it all. And, I can look forward to meeting my wife and having a family. It is something I really want.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cIt will happen, son.\u201d Ben assured. \u201cWhat about your architectural dreams? What about all the buildings you want to plan?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cWhat better place than the West to do that? I was thinking of starting my own firm out here. I mean, why not?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cWhy not indeed.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019m so glad to be home, Pa. Thank you for being so patient with me. I promise to be happier from now on.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cThe important thing is that your happiness is real, Adam.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cRight. I\u2019ve had enough of facades. These last months have shown me one thing for sure, though.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cOh? What\u2019s that?\u201d Ben probed.<\/p>\n

\u201cThis is where I\u2019m meant to be.\u201d<\/p>\n

*****End*****<\/p>\n

<\/div>\n

<\/g><\/svg><\/i> \"Loading\"<\/p>\n

<\/div>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"

Summary: \u00a0 Is the grass really greener on the other side of the fence?\u00a0\u00a0 It all depends on one’s perspective.<\/p>\n

Rating:\u00a0 K+\u00a0 (4,440 words)<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":113,"featured_media":11562,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"template-full-width-post.php","format":"standard","meta":{"jetpack_post_was_ever_published":false,"_jetpack_newsletter_access":"","_jetpack_dont_email_post_to_subs":false,"_jetpack_newsletter_tier_id":0,"_jetpack_memberships_contains_paywalled_content":false,"_jetpack_memberships_contains_paid_content":false,"footnotes":""},"categories":[23],"tags":[14],"class_list":["post-12058","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-drama","tag-adam-cartwright","wpcat-23-id"],"a3_pvc":{"activated":true,"total_views":1190,"today_views":0},"jetpack_featured_media_url":"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/08\/ADAM-FACE.jpg?fit=500%2C375&ssl=1","jetpack_likes_enabled":true,"jetpack-related-posts":[{"id":11353,"url":"https:\/\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/?p=11353","url_meta":{"origin":12058,"position":0},"title":"The Map (by JoanS)","author":"JoanS","date":"May 1, 2014","format":false,"excerpt":"Summary:\u00a0 You've probably read what the producers want you to know about the map that hung on the wall behind Ben's desk, but here is the real story. Rating:\u00a0 K\u00a0 (2,790 words)","rel":"","context":"In "Prequel"","block_context":{"text":"Prequel","link":"https:\/\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/?cat=30"},"img":{"alt_text":"","src":"","width":0,"height":0},"classes":[]},{"id":5284,"url":"https:\/\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/?p=5284","url_meta":{"origin":12058,"position":1},"title":"No Flash in the Pan (by Cowgirl8)","author":"Cowgirl8","date":"April 30, 2014","format":false,"excerpt":"Summary:\u00a0This is\u00a0a story that I wrote for my English class. My teacher really liked it. It's about the boys while Ben is out of Town. There is foreshadowing. And we weren't supposed to have blood and Gore so nothing gruesome in this story. Any spelling or grammar errors\u00a0are my fault.\u2026","rel":"","context":"In "Drama"","block_context":{"text":"Drama","link":"https:\/\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/?cat=23"},"img":{"alt_text":"","src":"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/wp-content\/uploads\/2014\/03\/Bonanza24.jpg?fit=526%2C372&ssl=1&resize=350%2C200","width":350,"height":200,"srcset":"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/wp-content\/uploads\/2014\/03\/Bonanza24.jpg?fit=526%2C372&ssl=1&resize=350%2C200 1x, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/wp-content\/uploads\/2014\/03\/Bonanza24.jpg?fit=526%2C372&ssl=1&resize=525%2C300 1.5x"},"classes":[]},{"id":4842,"url":"https:\/\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/?p=4842","url_meta":{"origin":12058,"position":2},"title":"This Won’t Work (by Storm)","author":"storm","date":"August 2, 2009","format":false,"excerpt":"Summary: \u00a0\u00a0This is a little story of what happens when Adam falls for one of Joe's schemes Rated: T \u00a0WC \u00a02900","rel":"","context":"In "Drama"","block_context":{"text":"Drama","link":"https:\/\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/?cat=23"},"img":{"alt_text":"","src":"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/wp-content\/uploads\/2014\/04\/Pdvd_014.jpg?fit=720%2C576&ssl=1&resize=350%2C200","width":350,"height":200,"srcset":"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/wp-content\/uploads\/2014\/04\/Pdvd_014.jpg?fit=720%2C576&ssl=1&resize=350%2C200 1x, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/wp-content\/uploads\/2014\/04\/Pdvd_014.jpg?fit=720%2C576&ssl=1&resize=525%2C300 1.5x, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/wp-content\/uploads\/2014\/04\/Pdvd_014.jpg?fit=720%2C576&ssl=1&resize=700%2C400 2x"},"classes":[]},{"id":13699,"url":"https:\/\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/?p=13699","url_meta":{"origin":12058,"position":3},"title":"All for Nothing (by Gillian)","author":"Gillian","date":"March 24, 2002","format":false,"excerpt":"Summary:\u00a0 14 year old Adam tries to help Hoss out of trouble, but things, of course, go wrong. Rating:\u00a0 G (9,350 words)","rel":"","context":"In "Drama"","block_context":{"text":"Drama","link":"https:\/\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/?cat=23"},"img":{"alt_text":"","src":"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/wp-content\/uploads\/2014\/05\/QIXI-chapter9.jpg?fit=400%2C303&ssl=1&resize=350%2C200","width":350,"height":200},"classes":[]},{"id":5406,"url":"https:\/\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/?p=5406","url_meta":{"origin":12058,"position":4},"title":"The House on Kay Street (by Bonanzaluver)","author":"Bonanzaluver","date":"October 30, 2012","format":false,"excerpt":"Summary: \u00a0Adam and Joe are asked to fix up an old house for a friend of Ben's who is about to move in to it. What they find is that there is someone or something opposed to their doing so. 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Rating: \u00a0G \u00a0 \u00a0(2,170 words)","rel":"","context":"In "Drama"","block_context":{"text":"Drama","link":"https:\/\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/?cat=23"},"img":{"alt_text":"","src":"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/05\/derringer.jpg?fit=500%2C500&ssl=1&resize=350%2C200","width":350,"height":200},"classes":[]}],"jetpack_sharing_enabled":true,"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/posts\/12058","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/users\/113"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Fcomments&post=12058"}],"version-history":[{"count":0,"href":"https:\/\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/posts\/12058\/revisions"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/media\/11562"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Fmedia&parent=12058"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Fcategories&post=12058"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Ftags&post=12058"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}