{"id":12065,"date":"2014-04-27T14:05:04","date_gmt":"2014-04-27T18:05:04","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/?p=12065"},"modified":"2025-02-18T19:13:01","modified_gmt":"2025-02-19T00:13:01","slug":"adams-rib-by-barbara","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/?p=12065","title":{"rendered":"Adam’s Rib (by Barbara)"},"content":{"rendered":"

Summary<\/strong>:\u00a0 Will love ring true for Adam’s secret admirer?<\/p>\n

Rating:\u00a0 K\u00a0 (8,550 words)<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam’s Rib<\/strong><\/p>\n

\u201cWell, hello little lady.\u201d Hoss Cartwright greeted as a young girl rode into the courtyard of the Ponderosa ranch house. \u201cWhere did you come from?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI came from over there.\u201d The girl pointed. \u201cMy mother and father and I just moved into the Spencer place. We came all the way from Boston!\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cBoston huh? My brother Adam\u2019ll be happy to meet you.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

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

 <\/p>\n

\u201cAw\u2026he was born back East is all. Went to school there too.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Hoss had just finished shoeing his horse. He set down his tools and wiped his hands on his pants and walked up to the girl to chat.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cThat\u2019s a mighty pretty pony you\u2019re ridin\u2019,\u201d he said.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cHer name\u2019s New England Lady, but I just call her Lacey.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWell, she\u2019s the nicest dapple gray I think I ever did see \u2013 sure enough,\u201d Hoss complimented as he gently stroked the mare\u2019s neck. \u201cWhat kin I do for ya?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cMy mother sent me to invite you and you\u2019re family for dinner tomorrow night. She said it was a kind of a get acquainted sort of thing, seeing as we\u2019re neighbors now and everything.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWell, that was awful nice of your ma. But my Pa and brothers are in Carson City and won\u2019t be back \u2018til Friday. But, I\u2019ll tell you what.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

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

 <\/p>\n

\u201cOn Saturday we\u2019re havin\u2019 a big party for my little brother\u2019s birthday. You tell you\u2019re Ma and Pa they are welcome to come. We can all get acquainted then. We can have supper at your place some other time.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cCan I come to the party too?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWell sure you can. What\u2019s you\u2019re name anyhow?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cEmily Lawsden. And you\u2019re Hoss Cartwright,\u201d The girl smiled impishly.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cHow\u2019d you know that?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI heard my mother asking about the Ponderosa in town. Mrs. Jason at the mercantile said there was four men out here. A father and his three sons.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cOh yeah? What else did she say?\u201d Hoss asked inquisitively as he continued to rub Lacey\u2019s velvety nose.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cShe said Ben Cartwright is the Pa and he\u2019s a big man with gray hair and that he is really, really contemptuous but nice.\u201d The girl spewed innocently.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cCon\u2026 what?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cContemptuous\u2026 that means uppity,\u201d she replied precociously.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cUppity huh?\u201d Hoss chortled. \u201cGo on.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cShe said the oldest son is Adam and he\u2019s very smart and that he\u2019s contemptuous too.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

“She also said he\u2019s a tall glass of water but I\u2019m not sure what she meant by that.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cMe neither.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cThe youngest one is Little Joe and he\u2019s a scamp. At least that\u2019s what Mrs. Jason at the mercantile said.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cMy, my. She thinks she\u2019s got it all figured, don\u2019t she. What\u2019d she say about me?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cShe just said you were a big fella. Like a bear. But a gentle bear,\u201d Emily added with a smirk.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWell, I guess that\u2019s as good a description as any.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI guess so.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cHow old are you Emily?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI just turned thirteen last Tuesday.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cThirteen! You\u2019re a grown up lady then huh?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYep.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI think I smell some cookies baking,\u201d Hoss said as he sniffed the air like a hound. \u201cDo you want to go into the kitchen and steal some from old Hop Sing?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cSure. But, what\u2019s a Hop Sing?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWell he\u2019s not a what. He\u2019s a who. Hop Sing\u2019s our cook. And he\u2019s an ornery one, so\u2019s we got to be quiet alright?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Emily dismounted and Hoss took her hand as they tiptoed toward the house. She was tiny for thirteen \u2013 all freckles and pigtails. Her eyes were much like Hoss\u2019. They were clear and bright \u2013 as blue as the waters of Lake Tahoe. When she grinned, dimples dented her cheeks and her giggle was as sweet as maple syrup.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

The twosome cracked the door open and Hoss peered in to make sure Hop Sing was nowhere in sight. The coast was clear and he waved Emily into the house. The cookies had just been taken from the oven and the aroma they emitted was heavenly. But, as soon as Hoss swiped several from the sheet, Hop Sing appeared like a cougar out of nowhere and Hoss dropped them on the floor.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cDad burn it!\u201d He cussed.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cMr. Hoss! You no take cookie. Dohs are for aftah dinnah,\u201d he raged. \u201cYou go outside and stay out of Hop Sing\u2019s kitchen!\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cOkay\u2026 okay Hop Sing. I was just braggin\u2019 to little Emily here about what a good baker you are,\u201d Hoss stuttered, fearful the Chinaman might hit him.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Hop Sing then noticed the child, who\u2019d taken cover behind Hoss\u2019 giant frame. He took several cookies from the pan and handed them to her.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cHere you go, little missy.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cThank you,\u201d she said politely.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cHey!\u201d Hoss protested. \u201cHow come she can have some and I c\u2019ain\u2019t?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cCause you big boy and she little girl. Big boys don\u2019t get cookie until aftah dinnah!\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cAwe heck,\u201d Hoss pouted. \u201cCome on Emily, I\u2019ll ride home with you and invite you\u2019re Ma and Pa to Joe\u2019s party myself. I don\u2019t want to be left alone with him anyhow. What do you say?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cThat sounds just fine to me,\u201d She agreed and then took a bite of cookie, flaunting the fact that she had some and Hoss didn\u2019t.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Hop Sing finished chasing Hoss out of his kitchen, which made Emily laugh heartily. She mounted Lacey and waited for Hoss to get Chubb. Then the pair rode off to the Lawsdens.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

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

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWhat is that stench?\u201d Adam queried as he poked his head into Little Joe\u2019s bedroom.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWhat do you mean?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI mean it smells like a dead animal in here. What is that stuff?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI bought this hair tonic when we were in Carson City and it cost me a whole day\u2019s pay. It\u2019s from Paris, France!\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cParis, France huh?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYep!\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWell, wash it off. We want our guests to stay for the party not run for the hills.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cAw, cut it out Adam. It\u2019s not that bad.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cTake my word for it, Joe.\u201d Adam crinkled his nose and waved his hand in front of his face. \u201cIt\u2019s bad.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWell, I like it.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cThere\u2019s an awful lot of pretty girls coming tonight, and I\u2019m telling you, you\u2019re gonna to scare them off smelling like that.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cNot possible brother,\u201d Joe said as he finished his grooming regiment. \u201cNot possible.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam cleared his throat to change the subject and dug into his pocket producing a small, plain box. \u201cHere,\u201d he murmured shyly as he passed it to his brother.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

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

 <\/p>\n

\u201cIt\u2019s your birthday present.\u201d Adam crossed his arms. \u201cWhat do you think it is?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cOh.\u201d Joe sounded leery. \u201cI hope it\u2019s better then that horse brush you got me last year.\u201d He jabbed expecting yet another humble offering.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe took the box that was wrapped with a simple blue ribbon. He slid it off and pried open the lid. His eyes widened when he saw what was inside. \u201cAdam\u2026 I\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI had it made for you. Do you like it?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYes. Yes\u2026 I do.\u201d Joe stuttered taken aback by his brother\u2019s generosity. \u201cIt\u2019s\u2026too much Adam.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWell it is your twenty-first birthday. You\u2019re officially a man now. At least this is something that WILL impress the ladies.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cIt sure will. Can I wear it?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWell of course you can. That\u2019s what it\u2019s for isn\u2019t it?\u201d Adam chuckled as he playfully patted his brother on the shoulder.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe pulled his new silver belt buckle out of its box. Emblazoned on it were the letters \u201cJC\u201d in gold. The tooling that graced the oval face was deep and intricate and sparkled in the lamplight. A band of gold roping encircled it. It was a thing of beauty and very dear.<\/p>\n

\u201cI love it Adam. Thank you so much.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYou are so welcome,\u201d Adam answered pleasantly \u2013 pleased that Joe was happy with his choice. \u201cNow, get a move on and get downstairs. Pa and Hoss are waiting and we want to be ready when the guests arrive.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019ll be right down.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cGood,\u201d Adam said as he turned to leave. He stopped at the door and looked back at Joe who gazed at his new treasure in disbelief. \u201cSo, you\u2019re not going to reconsider removing the cologne?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cIs it really that bad?\u201d Joe asked, his face scrunched.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYes.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWell, all right then Adam. If you think I should.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI do,\u201d he confirmed. \u201cNext time you\u2019re thinking about spending a day\u2019s pay on tonic, do us all a favor and don\u2019t.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam made his way down into the living room where his father and brother waited patiently. Ben and Hoss were always the first to be ready for such things. Adam usually took special care when primping for dances and dos. Tonight he wanted to look his best for Jane Fitzgerald who he\u2019d had his eye on lately. Joe was always the last to arrive. He took the most time to make sure everything was just right. He appeared several moments later.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWell,\u201d Ben grinned. \u201cYou finally decided to grace us with your company, eh son.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cDid you see what Adam got me?\u201d Joe gushed as he showed off the buckle.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWhy, no.\u201d His father said surprised his youngest son would want to bring attention to anything Adam might buy him. \u201cWell, it\u2019s very handsome. It suits you, Little Joe. Your brother is overly generous this year, isn\u2019t he?\u201d Ben looked over at Adam and got a modest shrug in return.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYeah, it looks real nice,\u201d Hoss agreed scowling at Adam because Hoss had bought Joe something a little less extravagant \u2013 a new bedroll. \u201cHere ya go little brother. Happy birthday.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cThanks Hoss. I sure do need a new one of these. My other one got eaten by moths.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYeah, I know. You\u2019ve been using mine ever since.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Hoss\u2019 comment made his family laugh. The foursome gathered around the center table and Ben poured each of his boys a glass of his best brandy. He raised his glass.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cSon,\u201d Ben stated like he was at a preacher\u2019s pulpit. \u201cThis is your twenty-first birthday. Welcome to manhood.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

The boys all clinked glasses and sipped their drinks. Then Ben handed Little Joe a package that was handsomely wrapped and it was accepted with enthusiasm.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cThanks, Pa.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Little Joe sat on the settee and tore the paper in every direction. Adam and Hoss looked on with interest. Joe broke open the box and he found a new rifle inside.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cIs this the rifle I saw in the catalogue, Pa?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cThat\u2019s the one. It has a left-handed grip, too.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cThank you. I\u2019ll treasure it.\u201d Joe rose to embrace his father. \u201cThis is the best birthday I\u2019ve ever had!\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI think I hear our first guests arriving. Let\u2019s greet them, shall we,\u201d Ben announced as he guided his boys out the front door.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

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

The outside of the house was decorated with Chinese lanterns and streamers. Hoss made a banner that read \u201cHappy Birthday Little Joe\u201d and hung it across the front of the house. The cool twilight gave the ranch a mystical aura. It looked like a fantasyland under a canopy of a billion stars. A side of beef had been roasting since the early morning and its aroma was salivating. The band Ben hired tuned their instruments making the courtyard sound like a theater house.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

The first to arrive were the Sterns. They were the Cartwright\u2019s oldest neighbors. Then Sheriff Coffee and a myriad of friends after that until the courtyard was filled with people laughing and dancing. The Lawsdens arrived without being noticed. When they\u2019d settled their carriage Emily ran up to Hoss with her parents several steps behind her.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cHello Hoss!\u201d She said boisterously.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWell hello my little gal,\u201d he said and stuck his hand out to greet her parents. \u201cGood evening Mr. and Mrs. Lawsden. How are you tonight?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cJust fine Hoss,\u201d Rachel Lawsden answered with a gleaming smile.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cThank you for having us this evening,\u201d Paul Lawsden said. \u201cIt\u2019ll be nice to meet everyone.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWell, let\u2019s start with my Pa and brothers,\u201d Hoss announced as he scoured the party for his family. \u201cI don\u2019t see Adam but there\u2019s Pa and Joe. Let\u2019s go on over and say hello.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Hoss led them across the courtyard with Emily skipping her way. She was beautifully attired in a robin\u2019s egg blue dress and bright white pinafore. The ribbons in her hair were of silk and bounced when she moved. Rachel and Paul Lawsden were formally dressed \u2013 she in a dark purple dress with matching hat and white gloves, and he in a deep blue tail coat and satin vest with ascot. They looked every inch from the east.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cPa. This is Mr. and Mrs. Lawsden.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWell, it\u2019s very nice to meet you. Hoss has told me all about you. Thank you for coming.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cOur pleasure Mr. Cartwright.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cCall me Ben.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cAnd this is the man of the hour, my brother Joseph,\u201d Hoss introduced.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cHow are ya,\u201d Joe said casually shaking Paul\u2019s hand and kissing Rachel\u2019s.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWe brought you a small gift, Joseph.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cOh\u2026 well, thank you but it wasn\u2019t necessary.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWe insist. I hope you like it.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019m sure I will.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cHey!\u201d Emily protested. \u201cWhat about me?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cSorry little lady,\u201d Hoss apologized \u201cPa, Little Joe\u2026 this is Emily Lawsden.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWell, hello there, Emily. Aren\u2019t you a lovely young lady,\u201d Ben complimented.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cPrettiest girl at the party,\u201d Joe gushed with a quick wink.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cThank you,\u201d she said as she curtsied primly. \u201cIt\u2019s nice to meet you too. You don\u2019t look very contemptuous to me.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cEMILY!\u201d Her father scolded, embarrassed at his daughter\u2019s comment.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

But it made the Cartwrights laugh.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cThat\u2019s all right Mr. Lawsden. Hoss informed me of Mrs. Jason\u2019s descriptions.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

After her parents eventually saw the humor in Emily\u2019s remark, they joined in on the chuckle then fell uncomfortably silent waiting for more small talk.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cHey. Where\u2019s Adam?\u201d Hoss asked as he looked over the crowd for his older brother. \u201cI\u2019m sure he\u2019d like to meet the Lawsdens too.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWell, Jane arrived and I haven\u2019t seen him since,\u201d Ben scowled.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWhen he does show up, I\u2019ll make sure you meet him,\u201d Hoss insisted.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYes. It\u2019ll be nice to see another Easterner. We\u2019re a little intimidated by the west right now.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cOh. No reason to. People are people no matter where they live,\u201d Ben assured.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYou\u2019re right of course,\u201d Paul agreed.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cHoss tells me you have a nice dapple gray,\u201d Joe mentioned to Emily. \u201cSays it\u2019s the best one he\u2019s ever seen.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cThat\u2019s right. Her name is New England Lady but I just call her Lacey.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWell, I\u2019m pretty proud of my pony too,\u201d Joe boasted. \u201cWould you like to meet him?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cSure,\u201d Emily answered enthusiastically.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe took the girls hand and led her to the barn to visit his horse. Ben and Hoss escorted the Lawsdens into the throng and began introducing them to everyone.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

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

 <\/p>\n

\u201cThis is Cochise,\u201d Joe said while feeding his horse a cube of sugar. \u201cHe\u2019s a good old boy.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cHe\u2019s very nice. I like his colors,\u201d Emily complimented then looked around the barn. \u201cHe\u2019s a nice one.\u201d She pointed. \u201cWhose horse is that?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cThat\u2019s brother Adam\u2019s horse \u2013 Sport.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI love chestnuts. I\u2019m going to have a chestnut some day.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYep, he\u2019s nice. Fast too. He\u2019s part Thoroughbred.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe was getting bored now and wanting to get back to the party and all the \u201cgrown-up\u201d girls he was missing out on. He was convinced Emily was taken with him though. He was sure every girl was.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cCome on. Let\u2019s get back to the party and I\u2019ll get you a nice sarsaparilla.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cOkay.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

When they exited the barn Joe noticed Adam and Jane in a dark corner off to the side of it. The couple were in an embrace and quite oblivious of being sighted. Joe tried to distract Emily from the blatant display of affection between them. He ushered her away from them hoping she hadn\u2019t noticed.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWow! Who\u2019s that?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWho\u2019s who?\u201d Joe asked still focused on steering Emily away from Adam and his lady. \u201cThat\u2019s Jane Fitzgerald.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cNO, not her\u2026 him?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cOh\u2026 ah\u2026 that\u2019s my brother Adam.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cHe IS a tall glass of water,\u201d Emily stated starry eyed.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWHAT?\u201d Little Joe responded, surprised such a young girl would say such a thing.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cMrs. Jason at the mercantile said he was a tall glass of water and I didn\u2019t know what she meant but I know what she means now!\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cA tall glass of water?\u201d Joe said still in shock.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cCan I meet him?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cHe\u2019s a little busy right now Emily,\u201d Joe dismissed awkwardly, \u201cbesides he\u2019s old.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cOld? What do you mean old?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cHe\u2019s almost thirty! He\u2019s like my second Pa.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cSo?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cSo! What do you mean so?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cSo. I want to meet him\u2026 NOW!\u201d She yelled loud enough to take Adam\u2019s attention away from Jane momentarily, which didn\u2019t exactly please him.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cShe wants to meet him now, she can meet him now,” Joe mumbled to himself as he followed Emily over to Adam and Jane.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

When they got there, Adam gave Joe a scowl wondering why he\u2019d been interrupted. Joe knew better, but it seems he had no choice.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cAdam\u2026 Jane\u2026 this is Emily Lawsden.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

The twosome straightened up and courteously said hello to the youngster.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cHello Adam,\u201d she said accompanied by a perfect curtsy and infatuated grin.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cIt\u2019s very nice to meet you, Emily. Won\u2019t you say hello to my friend Jane,\u201d Adam introduced.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cHi,\u201d she said simply if only to please him.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWell\u2026 maybe we\u2019ll get a chance to talk later in the evening,\u201d Adam said curtly as he nodded to Joe to get her away from him so he could continue with his previous activity.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cCome on Emily. Let\u2019s leave the older folks alone.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cAw. Do I have to?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYes, yes \u2026 you have to.\u201d Adam demanded turning her gently towards Joe. \u201cI\u2019ll see you later alright Emily.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWell, alright.\u201d She sounded disappointed. \u201cYou are a little contemptuous aren\u2019t you?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWhat?\u201d Adam said \u2013 his face crinkled with puzzlement.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cIt\u2019s okay\u2026 I like that in my men.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cLet\u2019s go Emily,\u201d Joe encouraged, knowing full well Adam would have his hide if the conversation went on any longer. \u201cLook, I think they\u2019re getting my cake ready.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019m coming,\u201d She finally agreed. \u201cSee you later Adam.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cGood-bye for now.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

When she and Joe melted back into the fete, Adam pulled Jane around to the side of the barn where no one would bother them. They picked up where they left off. They would join in eventually, but at this point cake was the last thing on their minds.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

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

 <\/p>\n

\u201cDid you boys have a good time last night?\u201d Ben asked as he took his place at the head of the breakfast table.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cSure did Pa,\u201d Joe beamed as he chewed noisily on a piece of toast. \u201cThank you for everything.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cOh. You\u2019re quite welcome, son.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cIt was a nice party,\u201d Hoss granted. \u201cWhat about you Adam? We didn\u2019t see much of you all night.\u201d He winked at Joe who smiled impishly back at him.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI was around\u201d Adam answered with a smirk.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cJane\u2019s a lovely girl.\u201d Ben knew exactly what his sons were clumsily hinting at. \u201cYou should bring her by for supper some night.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cAh\u2026 I don\u2019t think so Pa.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWhy not?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cShe\u2019s not exactly happy with me at the moment.\u201d Adam sounded irritated. \u201cAs a matter of fact I\u2019ll have to ride over there tonight and apologize.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cIn the doghouse huh, Adam?\u201d Joe queried. \u201cYou\u2019re not-so-secret admirer behind all that?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cAdmirer? And whom might that be Joseph?\u201d Ben asked as he scooped several pieces of bacon onto his plate.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cLittle Emily Lawsden.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cAin\u2019t she something\u2019? Cute as a bug\u2019s ear\u2026 ain\u2019t she a caution Adam?\u201d Hoss taunted.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam stopped eating and looked up from under his brow. Emily had followed him around the entire evening and ended up being his dance partner for most of it. Jane got fed up and left early in a huff. The last thing Adam wanted to talk about was Emily Lawsden.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cSeems she\u2019s interested in an older man,\u201d Hoss jabbed.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cOh?\u201d Ben\u2019s curiosity was tweaked.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYeah,\u201d Joe chuckled at his brother\u2019s misfortune. \u201cSeems Adam here is a tall glass of water.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cA what?\u201d Ben explained. \u201cWhat kind of talk is that?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYou should have seen her, Pa. She just about yanked my shoulder out of its socket to meet him last night even though he was busy.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cBusy? What do you mean busy?\u201d Ben asked innocently.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cNothing Pa,\u201d Adam interrupted. \u201cNothing.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYou call that nothing? I\u2019d call THAT something,\u201d Joe teased.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cSo, that\u2019s what she was going on about all night?\u201d Hoss said. \u201cShe went on and on about how her new boyfriend was contemptuous and that she really liked that in her man.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cAll right,\u201d Adam sniffed impatiently, \u201cthat\u2019s enough.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cOh I don\u2019t think so, Adam. We ain\u2019t even started in on you yet,\u201d Hoss chortled.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cNow, leave him alone boys,\u201d Ben announced putting a stop to his son\u2019s playfully ribbing. \u201cEmily obviously has a crush on Adam. It\u2019s perfectly normal. It\u2019ll pass as soon as she meets some children of her own age.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI don\u2019t know Pa. Adam\u2019s a pretty hard act to follow don\u2019t you think?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cAre you two just about finished?\u201d Adam asked tersely.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cNo one could replace our older brother here \u2026not where Emily is concerned,\u201d Joe added.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cOkay, okay,\u201d Ben hushed. \u201cLet\u2019s eat up now. We\u2019ve got to get into town for supplies and I want to be back in time to repair those loft floorboards. I might even give you boys a hand.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cThanks Pa,\u201d Joe chewed. \u201cYou know what they say?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

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

 <\/p>\n

\u201cMany hands\u2026 aren\u2019t enough for Adam Cartwright.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben, Joe and Hoss found the comment quite funny. Adam, on the other hand, just sneered.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Eventually the laughter died down and the foursome finished their breakfasts. They routinely went to the front door where they all put on their holsters and hats and went to work. When they got half way across the courtyard, they saw Emily exit the barn and walk towards them.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cOh no,\u201d Adam whimpered then turned to run back to the house. Joe and Hoss grabbed him by the arms and forced him to stay.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWell good morning Emily,\u201d Ben remarked putting his hands on his hips. \u201cMy, my, you are an early bird aren\u2019t you?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cGood morning Adam,\u201d She said, ignoring Ben\u2019s greeting.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cAh\u2026 good morning,\u201d Adam replied reluctantly as his brothers snickered under their breaths.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI have a surprise for you,\u201d She announced.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cOh no\u2026 please no surprises. I don\u2019t like surprises.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cAwe, come on Adam. Let\u2019s see what Emily has for you,\u201d Joe joshed, giving him a patronizing slap on the back.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYou wait right here and I\u2019ll go get it!\u201d she gushed, excited to be in his presence.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cKill me now,\u201d Adam sighed with Joe and Hoss still holding him captive.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Emily ran back to the barn and took a few moments to get the \u201csurprise\u201d ready to reveal. The men waited apprehensively. When she exited the barn, Adam gasped and his father and brothers did everything in their power to stifle their laughter.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Sport had been tampered with. His mane, forelock and tail were braided to perfection and finished with pink and purple ribbons. His hooves shone like paten leather and his saddle had been embellished with bows. Bright yellow streamers hung from the stirrups. He looked like he\u2019d been prepared for the Easter parade.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWell, what do you think?\u201d she queried, anxious for Adam\u2019s approval.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWHAT\u2026 have you done to my horse?\u201d he said horrified.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI groomed Sport for you. And\u2026 and I mucked out his stall and everything.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam slowly approached his steed and circled him. He stared at Sport aghast \u2013 his mouth agape.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2026 I \u2026 you, I\u2026\u201d He searched for words trying desperately to restrain his temper.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

He wasn\u2019t exactly sure what he was feeling. It was a combination of rage and disbelief. He couldn\u2019t remember ever feeling that way before.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cNow, Adam,\u201d Ben said as he hurried toward his disturbed son, put his arm around his shoulder and guided him away from Emily. \u201cTake it easy.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cBut\u2026 I\u2026 she\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cEmily was just trying to help. She just wants to make you happy.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cHAPPY!\u201d Adam shouted.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cShhh. You\u2019re going to hurt her feelings,\u201d Ben continued to walk Adam back to the house. \u201cNow go inside and calm down. Take deep breaths son. She hasn\u2019t done anything that can\u2019t be undone. I\u2019ll take care of this.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cShe\u2026 I\u2026 but.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cEverything will be all right,\u201d Ben reassured.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI think Adam should ride into town like that Pa. After all, Emily put so much effort into getting Sport all gussied up,\u201d Hoss announced with a devious snicker.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

His comment made Adam clench his fist and purse his lips. He tried to escape his father\u2019s grasp to get at Hoss and take out his frustration on him but Ben blocked his attempt. His ire only made his younger siblings delight in the situation. Poor Emily stood by Sport still holding his reins wondering why Ben had just guided Adam back through the front door of the house, closing it tightly. He walked back to confront little Emily.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cBoys. Get on into town.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cBut Pa\u2026 we\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cGET into town please. Take the buck board and get what we need and get back here as soon as possible,\u201d Ben ordered.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cC\u2019ain\u2019t we just\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cAS SOON as possible\u2026 understood?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYes sir.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Still giggling under their collective breaths, Hoss and Little Joe went into the barn.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cDidn\u2019t Adam like my gift Mr. Cartwright?\u201d Emily asked deflated.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cEmily. Let me tell you a few things about my oldest boy,\u201d Ben began as he took Sport\u2019s reins and the girl\u2019s hand. He led them over to the corral fence to have a heart to heart with her.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYou see. Adam is set in his ways. He\u2019s very\u2026 particular about certain things,\u201d Ben outlined gingerly. \u201cHe loves routine. You know, a place for everything and everything in its place.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019m not sure what you mean Mr. Cartwright.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWhat I\u2019m trying to say Emily is, that Adam doesn\u2019t like his things tampered with. He\u2019s very\u2026 fastidious. Especially when it comes to things that are important to him. Do you understand?\u201d he said gently.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWhat does fastidious mean?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWell, it means fussy\u2026 very exacting.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

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

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI know you\u2019ve gone to a lot of trouble. And it\u2019s not that Adam doesn\u2019t appreciate it. It\u2019s just that, well\u2026 he\u2019s a man and men don\u2019t like their horses looking as pretty as you\u2019ve made Sport look. They just like them to look, well, I don\u2019t know\u2026 well like a horse!\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cOh,\u201d Emily repeated sheepishly.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYou run along now and I\u2019ll go talk to Adam and everything will be all right. But Emily\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

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

 <\/p>\n

\u201cNext time you want to get Adam\u2019s attention, maybe some flowers might be a better choice.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cAll right then.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cNOT on Sport though,\u201d Ben quickly redefined. \u201cKeep away from Adam\u2019s horse okay?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cOf course Mr. Cartwright,\u201d Emily replied matter-of-factly. \u201cSport would look silly with flowers all over him.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Satisfied with Ben\u2019s explanation of things, Emily turned toward Lacey. She mounted up and rode home leaving Sport in Ben\u2019s trusty hands.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cCome on boy. I\u2019ll get you \u2026 undressed.\u201d Ben led the colorful steed back into the barn and began untying the ribbons and bows and streamers. Eventually, he was back to normal and Ben went back to the house to see if Adam\u2019s blood pressure had lowered.<\/p>\n

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

 <\/p>\n

\u201cStill upset?\u201d Ben asked as he threw his hat on the side table by the door. He was not happy with the way his son handled Emily\u2019s \u201csurprise\u201d.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI don\u2019t believe it Pa! Why me?\u201d Adam ranted \u2013 his adrenaline still surging. He sat on the solid coffee table with his feet up on the fireplace threshold. His face was red. He was steaming.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cNow, now. Calm down. She just wanted to get your attention.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cShe got my attention all right.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cListen,\u201d Ben said as he crossed the living room floor and leaned against the stone to face Adam. \u201cI think you\u2019re over reacting just a little bit, don\u2019t you?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cIt wasn\u2019t your horse that was turned into pi\u00f1ata.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cNo. No it wasn\u2019t. And watch you\u2019re tone with me.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cIt\u2019s just that last night was a nightmare. I couldn\u2019t get away from her. Jane was livid. I haven\u2019t had anytime to spend with her\u2026 we\u2019ve been so busy you know. And, well, last night I was really enjoying myself until Emily came along and ruined everything,\u201d Adam vented then sighed feeling better he\u2019d gotten it all off his chest. \u201cShe\u2019s a good kid but\u2026she\u2019s a kid! Why doesn\u2019t she pick on Little Joe?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cAre you finished?\u201d Ben asked after listening intently.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYes,\u201d Adam admitted. \u201cI\u2019m finished.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cGood. Can we go out to the barn and get the hay out of the loft so we can replace those floor boards while the boys are picking up the supplies?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cIs she gone?\u201d Adam inquired cautiously.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYes. She\u2019s gone. I had a talk with her.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWonderful.\u201d He sounded relieved.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cOh and I got all of the ribbons out of Sports mane and tail as well.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam smiled and sniffed; now realizing the scenario was quite humorous after all. \u201cThanks Pa. I owe you one.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cDon\u2019t mention it, son. Tomorrow you can groom Buck and we\u2019ll be even.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cPa. We\u2019ll never be even,\u201d Adam quipped. \u201cYou\u2019re just too good to me.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYes I am, my boy. Yes I am.\u201d<\/p>\n

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

 <\/p>\n

Alright! Enough is enough!\u201d Adam said with irritation as he descended the stairs into the living room.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben, Hoss and Little Joe looked up from the supper table to see what their brother was ranting about now. All they wanted to do was eat and couldn\u2019t because they were waiting for him to join them.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cIs there a problem son?\u201d Ben asked innocently.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYes.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWell. What is it?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWhich one of you thinks he\u2019s funny?\u201d Adam hissed.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWhat are you talking about?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cMy room\u2026\u201d Adam exhaled, \u201cis filled with flowers!\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cOh no.\u201d Ben whispered under his breath realizing he\u2019d put an idea in Emily\u2019s head that he hadn\u2019t intended.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Hoss and Little Joe began to howl.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWhat\u2019s the matter Adam? They making you sneeze or something?\u201d Hoss asked sarcastically.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cHa, ha,\u201d Adam was not amused. \u201cJust tell me it was one of you two\u2026 please.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cNope. Wasn\u2019t me,\u201d Hoss denied.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cNot me either brother,\u201d Joe added. \u201cHaven\u2019t had time to pick any flowers. Well, not for you anyway.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cDo you mean to tell me that she\u2026got into my bedroom,\u201d Adam\u2019s blood pressure was rising again as his family watched, \u201cand filled it with a field of flowers\u2026 with out anyone knowing? HOP SING!!\u201d Adam roared.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cOh, Adam,\u201d Ben said annoyed at his son\u2019s volume. \u201cYou know Hop Sing would have told us if he\u2019d seen anything\u2026 now simmer down.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cHOP SING!\u201d Adam bellowed again, ignoring his father\u2019s irritation.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

The Chinese scurried from the kitchen grumbling something about dinner getting cold, then glanced up the steps where Adam leered down at him.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYes, mista Adam? Why you yell?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cDid you see Emily Lawsden in this house today?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cNo. Not today,\u201d Hop Sing affirmed.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWell, my bedroom is filled with flowers, oh no, let me be a little more specific\u2026 it\u2019s filled with WEEDS!\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI not see anything. I cooking all day.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cDo you mean to tell me,\u201d Adam panted, \u201cthat someone can just waltz in here, through the living room and up the stairs and into my bedroom with hundreds of flowers\u2026 ah weeds, without you noticing?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYes, mista Adam\u2026 that is what I saying,\u201d Hop Sing exclaimed then turned back into the kitchen mumbling about dinner being ruined.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cBoy oh boy, she\u2019s really got it bad for you Adam,\u201d Joe shook his head. \u201cCan we eat now? I\u2019m hungry.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cMe too, little brother.\u201d
\n\u201dYou\u2019re always hungry.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWell, at least I\u2019m consistent,\u201d Hoss said drolly.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYou\u2019re consistent all right. Consistently\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cDO YOU mind?\u201d Adam interrupted his sibling\u2019s banter. \u201cThere are more important issues around here than food.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cThere is?\u201d Hoss asked puzzled.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam did not take his seat at the table but rather threw himself onto the sofa like a spoiled child and rested his chin on his fist. It pushed his cheek upwards, almost closing his right eye. If he\u2019d stuck his lower lip out any farther, he could have balanced a whiskey glass on it. He was exasperated.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWhat am I going to do?\u201d Adam muttered. \u201cFirst the dance, then the horse\u2026now the flowers\u2026 weeds.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cAhhh, I\u2019m sorry, son,\u201d Ben announced sheepishly. \u201cI think I might have given Emily the wrong idea.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYou what?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI mentioned something about flowers this morning to her, but I didn\u2019t think she\u2019d\u2026\u201d Ben spouted and then sighed giving in to his guilt. \u201cI\u2019ll ride over to the Lawsdens tonight and have another talk with her.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cOH NO!\u201d Adam put his hand in the air to reject his father\u2019s offer. \u201cNo. I\u2019ll take care of this myself \u2013 thank you very much.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWell, all right. But, I thought you were going over to apologize to Jane this evening.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

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

 <\/p>\n

\u201cKnow what your problem is older brother?\u201d Joe pondered aloud.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cTHIS, I\u2019ve got to hear,\u201d Adam scoffed.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYou\u2019ve got to date one woman at a time. Taking out more than one girl at once is well, it\u2019s just plain dangerous.\u201d Joe winked at Hoss who was enjoying every moment of Adam\u2019s torment.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019M NOT DATING HER?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWho?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cEMILY!\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cOh,\u201d Joe exclaimed. \u201cWell, she sure thinks so.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cMighty contemptuous, ain\u2019t he, Joe?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cEmily loves that in her men.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Again, the Cartwright\u2019s yuked it up at Adam\u2019s expense.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cOh\u2026 well, you two are a big help, aren\u2019t you. I can always depend on my two fine brothers to beat a fella when he\u2019s down.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWe try.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019ll ride over there tomorrow morning and talk to her,\u201d Adam resigned.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cBe gentle, son.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cPa, give me more credit than that will you? I know how to handle women.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI beg to differ, Adam. Contempt and woman do not mix.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI AM NOT\u2026 contemptuous.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

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

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

 <\/p>\n

Jane took Adam\u2019s apology with grace. She was a graceful girl after all. They\u2019d had coffee and cake and finished the evening with a stroll under the stars and a few kisses to boot. His impromptu date put Adam in a much better frame of mind.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

When he finally arrived home, everyone was asleep and he entered the house as quietly as he could. So far so good. Everything looked in order. He entered his bedroom apprehensively though, but the coast was clear there too. Hop Sing must have cleaned all the foliage out for him. It was appreciated and Adam allowed himself an indulgent chuckle over the previous day\u2019s events. He wearily pulled off his boots and tossed them aside. After putting on his nightshirt, he slipped into bed and with minutes he was fast asleep.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

He\u2019d had a restful night and awoke refreshed. He ate breakfast with his father and brothers like he did everyday and announced that he was off to see Emily. Another round of taunting ensued but Adam just shrugged it off. He felt confident and was much happier knowing Jane had forgiven him.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

There were two ways to get to the Lawsden place. The first was by taking the town road but it would take twice as long. The second was much quicker but a smidge treacherous. There was a rocky pass to go through and some pretty high cliffs as well. It was a scenic route but hard on old Sport. Adam chose the ladder despite the risk.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

As he weaved his way around the large boulders, Adam recited to himself what he was going to say to Emily. It wouldn\u2019t be easy, but it was necessary nonetheless. He wanted to be firm with her but he didn\u2019t want to hurt her either. Feelings were tender at her age and the last thing he wanted to do was say the wrong thing.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

He\u2019d made it most of the way through the pass and when he reached the edge of it, he could see the Lawsden\u2019s home. It was quite a setting \u2013 like a painting. The cream-colored house had a porch that encircled the entire frame and beside it stood a very large, red barn. The buildings were nestled in the center of a vibrant green pasture with a spotting of trees perfectly placed by a higher being. The rising sun gave the homestead an orange halo. It was an idyllic setting \u2013 Eden like. The crisp fall air and morning mist combined to make the scene somewhat surreal. The colors were like none Adam had ever seen before. He stopped for a moment to take in its beauty. Then, he took a deep breath, asked Sport to walk on and continued his mission.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

In the distance he could see a rider. It was Emily out giving Lacey her day\u2019s exercise. He\u2019d catch up to her and then they\u2019d have a talk. After gingerly getting down out of the pass and onto stable footing, Adam galloped after Emily. She pulled up to see who was following her and was delighted to see Adam canter up beside her.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cGood morning Adam.\u201d She greeted brightly. \u201cDid you get my little gift yesterday?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWhy yes, yes I did Emily\u2026 and thank you,\u201d he said politely, slightly tipping his hat. \u201cBut, I need to talk to you about\u2026 well about us.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cUs?\u201d she squealed with delight \u2013 anticipating some sort of proposal.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI mean you and me,\u201d Adam tried to correct himself awkwardly.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYou and me?\u201d Emily shrieked again.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cLook\u2026 ah listen\u2026 Emily\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

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

 <\/p>\n

\u201cCan we go somewhere and talk. How about that pond over there?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cNo.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cNo?\u201d Adam said a little taken aback. \u201cWhat do you mean no? Why not?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWe can talk right here. What do you want to talk about?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWell, if you insist.\u201d Adam paused momentarily to try and organize the right words in his head before he spoke them. He didn\u2019t have much luck. \u201cIt\u2019s, well it\u2019s about your \u2013 how shall I put this \u2013 it\u2019s about the affections you\u2019ve lavished on me lately. I\u2019m\u2026 well, I\u2019m just too old for you Emily.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

The young girl\u2019s disposition immediately sank and she scowled.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cBut, I\u2019m thirteen\u2026 and I love you Adam,\u201d she whimpered with a pout.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cLove me? You don\u2019t even know me.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI know you.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cOh no\u2026 you don\u2019t, you really don\u2019t,\u201d Adam insisted.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cBut, I do and I can make you happy.\u201d She retorted. \u201cI know you\u2019re fastidious and contemptuous but I can live with that\u2026 I love that. Oh Adam, we could be so happy together you and I,\u201d Emily said dramatically.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cNow, look, Emily,\u201d Adam was loosing patience. \u201cEnough is enough. I don\u2019t want to hurt your feelings but you\u2019re just going to have to forget about me and play with children your own age.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cChildren!\u201d She gasped. \u201cI AM NOT A CHILD!\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYes you are.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cNo I\u2019m not.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYES, YOU ARE,\u201d Adam blared, fed up with the immature exchange.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI don\u2019t care what you say. I love you and I will make you love me!\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

With her declaration still dangling in the air, Emily gave Lacey a smart snap of the whip and took off in a cloud of dust up towards the rocky pass.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cEMILY!\u201d Adam yelled after her. \u201cEMILY! IT\u2019S TOO DANGEROUS UP THERE.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

It didn\u2019t take much to get Sport back up to speed and he galloped after the girl over the pasture and into the foothills. Emily flew up into the pass throwing gravel and dust in Adam\u2019s face. He continued to call after her to try and get her to stop but she continued on as if Pegasus was her mount.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

She took the narrowest path possible \u2013 one that edged along a cliff like the lip of a coffee cup. It was no wider than a horse and a half. Adam had to slow up to continue the chase. Sport refused to take the route at first but Adam gave him a swift kick and he reluctantly moved forward. Emily was out of sight now and Sport again gave Adam trouble. The shear drop spooked the horse and he was hard to control. Adam continued to urge his mount on but Sport would have none of it. With a violent kick and a buck, Sport threw Adam sending him down onto the slim path and over the edge. He tried to cling on, grasping at anything that would prevent his fall. But the ground was too loose. He slipped down the side of the cliff trying in vain to stop his descent. He landed on a tiny ledge that stuck out of the rock like a balcony. It probably saved his life.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cDamn it!\u201d he hissed.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

He was unhurt, just some scraps and a bruise to his pride. After checking his body for damage, he suddenly realized he was trapped with no way up or down.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cEMILY!\u201d he shouted. \u201cEMILY, I\u2019M DOWN HERE!\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

He tried several more times but he was alone. He knew eventually Sport would end up back at the ranch, but that could take hours. He hoped Emily might back track when she realized he wasn\u2019t behind her anymore. Surely, someone would come looking for him\u2026 eventually. It looked like he was in for a long wait.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cGreat. Just great,\u201d he muttered to himself.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

He resigned himself to getting comfortable. Well, as comfortable as one could get on an eight-foot by three-foot ledge. He\u2019d have to be patient and hang on until he was discovered. He was just glad he\u2019d had a big breakfast. It could be a long time before he saw food or water again. With this revelation his stomach fluttered with anxiety.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cEMILY! HELP! EMILY!\u201d<\/p>\n

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

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWhere is that brother of yours?\u201d Ben asked Hoss and Little Joe as the threesome sat in the living room. Yet, another meal awaited them.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI don\u2019t know Pa,\u201d Joe replied. \u201cHe left this morning to go to the Lawsden\u2019s and I haven\u2019t seen him since. Sure could have used his help loading hay today.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYeah, ain\u2019t it just like him to disappear when we\u2019re bringin\u2019 in hay.\u201d Hoss agreed. \u201cI know it ain\u2019t the most fun job in the world but his horse eats too, don\u2019t he?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cCome to think of it,\u201d Ben pondered, \u201che did mention something about picking up mail. Must have gotten tied up in town.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYeah, or he ended up at Jane\u2019s\u2026 again,\u201d Hoss joshed.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI think Adam\u2019s as smitten with Jane as Emily is with Adam,\u201d Joe added.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWell, I guess he\u2019ll get here when he gets here,\u201d Ben sighed. \u201cLet\u2019s eat shall we, before Hop Sing throws it all away.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cPa! Don\u2019t even say that. Dad burn it \u2013 don\u2019t even think it! That\u2019s just plum criminal \u2013 throwing away food. Besides, Adam knows when supper is and if he ain\u2019t here, why should we have to suffer?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cSuffer? Take it easy Hoss. Nobody\u2019s going to throw away supper. Pa was just kidding.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWell, it ain\u2019t funny. Ain\u2019t funny at all,\u201d Hoss scoffed as the threesome took their places.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019m sorry son,\u201d Ben said as he laid his napkin on his lap. \u201cHow could I be so insensitive?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

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

 <\/p>\n

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

 <\/p>\n

By the position of the half moon that hung in the sky like a glowing sickle, Adam figured it was about 3:30 a.m. and it was colder than penguin feet. He hugged himself and rocked back and forth to try and hold in some of his body heat. The wind had picked up and balancing on the rocky bluff was getting more and more difficult. He wanted so desperately to close his eyes just for a moment, but Adam feared he might fall off.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

He\u2019d shouted for help for what seemed like hours but to no avail. The only thing he got for his efforts was a sore throat. It just added to his discomfort. But, despite this, he sang to pass the time. The sound of his rich singing voice echoed through the canyon.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cThe water is wide\u2026 I cannot get over\u2026\u201d he sang, \u201cand neither have I wings to fly. Wings to fly?\u201d He chuckled, \u201cI sure could use a pair of wings right now,\u201d Adam continued to entertain himself with the ballad.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cSport\u2019s got to be home by now,\u201d he said aloud. \u201cGuess I\u2019ll have to wait until Hoss gets up and finds him. That\u2019s only a couple more hours. I can do it. I can hang on for a few more hours. Come on Cartwright \u2013 show a little backbone,\u201d Adam commented to himself with a loud British accent. \u201cIt\u2019s not the end of the world old chap\u2026 I am getting hungry though. I sure could use some water,\u201d he conversed, trying desperately to stay awake then he broke into song again. \u201cOh, do you remember Sweet Betsy from Pike. Who crossed the big mountain with her lover Ike. With two yoke of cattle, a large yellow dog, a tall Shanghi rooster and one spotted hog.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

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

 <\/p>\n

\u201cAdam up yet?\u201d Ben asked his two younger sons who were yet again gathered at the breakfast table.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI guess so, Pa,\u201d Joe yawned without much interest. \u201cHe must be around somewhere, his horse is outside all saddled and ready to go\u2026 somewhere, I don\u2019t know.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWell, did anyone hear him come in last night?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cDidn\u2019t hear a thing Pa,\u201d Hoss answered.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cHow could we hear anything over your snoring,\u201d Joe sneered.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cDidn\u2019t bother me, little brother. Didn\u2019t bother me one bit.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWell, it bothered me. It bothers me every night.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI guess you\u2019re going to have to sleep with ear plugs then Joseph,\u201d Hoss resolved.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI guess I\u2019m going to have to sleep with ear plugs,\u201d Little Joe mocked. \u201cI think maybe you should sleep in the barn from now on \u2013 how about that!\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI don\u2019t think it would help,\u201d Hoss snickered, unsympathetic to his younger sibling\u2019s irritation.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI don\u2019t think it would help he says. Did you hear that, Pa?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cMust we start every morning bickering? Now eat up and let\u2019s get to work!\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cGet to work,\u201d Joe mumbled under his breath as he shoveled a fork full of eggs into his mouth. \u201cI could work much better if I had a good night\u2019s sleep but I can\u2019t sleep because I live with a \u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cJoseph!\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

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

 <\/p>\n

\u201cEnough!\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

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

 <\/p>\n

Hoss continued to chortle. They ate in silence for several moments until there was a knock at the door. It was ignored until Ben finally rose to answer it. He stormed toward the door irked at his son\u2019s laziness. He opened it with a smile nevertheless.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWell, good morning Emily. What can I do for you?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cMay I speak to Adam please?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI think he\u2019s in the barn.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cNo he isn\u2019t. I just checked there.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWell, he must be upstairs.\u201d Ben guided Emily through the front door and into the foyer. \u201cJoseph, check upstairs for your brother, will you?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cSure, Pa.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

They all watched Joe mosey up to the second floor as Ben smiled uncomfortably down at Emily. She did not reciprocate.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cHe\u2019s not up here, Pa.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWell, he has to be somewhere,\u201d Ben said exasperated throwing his arms up then letting them fall and slap against his sides. \u201cI\u2019m beginning to think the only one who made it back here last night was his horse.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben went out to inspect Sport with Emily close behind him. Little Joe and Hoss followed.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cHe looks fine to me.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cNope. Look at his rein,\u201d Hoss corrected. \u201cLeft side is torn clear off.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWhat do you suppose happened?\u201d Ben queried<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cIt can happen sometimes when the horse is running loose and steps on it.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cEmily. Did you see Adam yesterday morning?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYes sir.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWell, when was the last time you saw him?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWhen he was chasing me up through the pass.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cThe rocks near your place?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYes sir.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Without uttering another word, Ben and his boys rushed to the barn to saddle up and set out to find Adam. Emily mounted Lacey and waited for them. She\u2019d lead the way.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

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

 <\/p>\n

He\u2019d watched the sunrise. It was pretty, but Adam was in too much pain to notice. He\u2019d been on his feet for over twenty-four hours and his legs were starting to quake. The muscles had seized and felt like they were in knots. His stomach rumbled so loud he thought it might be heard back at the ranch. He was so parched, it felt like his throat was coated with sand. Where were they he wondered? Why hadn\u2019t they come for him? His thoughts were interrupted by the call of his name in the distance. Or, was he just imagining it?<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cADAM!\u201d Ben shouted.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cPA!\u201d Adam yelled back panicked that his father might ride right past him. \u201cI\u2019M DOWN HERE PA!\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Wrenching his neck as far as he could, Adam looked up the shear rock face to see his father, siblings and Emily staring down at him.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cAre you all right, son?\u201d Ben inquired calmly.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYes, I\u2019m fine\u2026 now get me off this ledge!\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWell, how\u2019d you get down there in the first place, older brother?\u201d Joe asked patronizingly, realizing that Adam was not hurt but just cranky from his ordeal.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cJOE! Throw me a rope will you. I\u2019m starving!\u201d Adam did not see the humor in the situation at all.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWell, I\u2019m sure we can find something better for you to eat than rope older brother,\u201d Hoss laughed.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cIT\u2019S NOT FUNNY!\u201d Adam barked. \u201cWhere have you been anyway? Didn\u2019t you even notice that I haven\u2019t been home? Help me\u2026 NOW!\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cAll right, all right. Don\u2019t get touchy.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cThat\u2019s right Adam,\u201d Hoss added. \u201cIf you ain\u2019t nice to us, we might just leave you down there.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cHOOOOOOOSS!\u201d Adam bellowed, his fists clenched \u2013 his patience expired.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cCome on boys. That\u2019s enough.\u201d Ben too, found the scene quite comical but he knew Adam was on the edge\u2026 literally. \u201cLet\u2019s get him up.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI don\u2019t think we have a rope long enough Pa,\u201d Joe analyzed, \u201cI\u2019m going to have to go back to the barn and get a longer one.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI can get one.\u201d Emily volunteered. \u201cI\u2019ll be back in two shakes of a lamb\u2019s tail.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben, Joe and Hoss all smiled at Emily\u2019s suggestion and watched her mount up and take off down to her.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cAdam?\u201d Ben called down to his cantankerous son. \u201cHang on. Emily\u2019s gone to get a rope long enough to reach you.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cMy hero.\u201d Adam seethed.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

EPILOGUE<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

After several hours of engineering, Adam was finally rescued. As it turned out, the path was too narrow to use the horses to haul him up. There was also too much brush and scrub to throw the rope down cleanly. It kept getting caught, frustrating Adam even more. So, the three men lowered Emily down to hand off the lifeline. Then the twosome were raised up the rock by Ben, Joe and Hoss \u2013 hand over hand.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

When Adam reached the top his ire seemed to vanish. He was just happy to be out of his predicament. He thanked his brothers and father and gave little Emily a delicate peck on the forehead. His affection made her tingle.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Over the next several weeks, Emily\u2019s obsession with Adam waned to mere infatuation. He was much more tolerant of her and actually began to enjoy her company. He would always be her first love. She still dreamed of being with him, but she did eventually realize that he was a man and she was just a girl.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

She did make friends at school and her surprise visits to the Ponderosa became less and less. Soon, she was nary seen and Adam missed her constant attention. He\u2019d become used to it and the boost his ego. A year later the Lawsdens moved to San Francisco and Emily became a distant memory. He often wondered if she still loved him. In fact, she did and always would.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

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

 <\/p>\n

<\/div>\n

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

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

Summary:\u00a0 Will love ring true for Adam’s secret admirer?<\/p>\n

Rating:\u00a0 K\u00a0 (8,550 words)<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":113,"featured_media":11583,"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":[23,3],"tags":[14,15,17,16],"class_list":["post-12065","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-drama","category-romance","tag-adam-cartwright","tag-ben","tag-hoss","tag-joe","wpcat-23-id","wpcat-3-id"],"a3_pvc":{"activated":true,"total_views":1399,"today_views":1},"jetpack_featured_media_url":"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/09\/4Cs.jpg?fit=400%2C401&ssl=1","jetpack_likes_enabled":true,"jetpack-related-posts":[{"id":9477,"url":"https:\/\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/?p=9477","url_meta":{"origin":12065,"position":0},"title":"He Would Have (by DJK)","author":"DJK","date":"July 27, 2014","format":false,"excerpt":"Summary:\u00a0 A short WHN for Hoss's loss of\u00a0Margie.\u00a0\u00a0 Rating: K+\u00a0 Word Count: 694","rel":"","context":"In "Brothers"","block_context":{"text":"Brothers","link":"https:\/\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/?cat=1009"},"img":{"alt_text":"","src":"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/10\/The-Tall-Stranger.jpg?fit=768%2C576&ssl=1&resize=350%2C200","width":350,"height":200,"srcset":"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/10\/The-Tall-Stranger.jpg?fit=768%2C576&ssl=1&resize=350%2C200 1x, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/10\/The-Tall-Stranger.jpg?fit=768%2C576&ssl=1&resize=525%2C300 1.5x, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/10\/The-Tall-Stranger.jpg?fit=768%2C576&ssl=1&resize=700%2C400 2x"},"classes":[]},{"id":14278,"url":"https:\/\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/?p=14278","url_meta":{"origin":12065,"position":1},"title":"Adam and the Imp of Satan (by DJK)","author":"DJK","date":"May 10, 2004","format":false,"excerpt":"Summary: \u00a0It's been five years since Abigail Warner's first visit, and Adam's proclamation. 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Rating: T \u00a0(1,140 words)","rel":"","context":"In "Humor"","block_context":{"text":"Humor","link":"https:\/\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/?cat=4"},"img":{"alt_text":"","src":"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/06\/ARLE-e1497282889671.png?fit=570%2C416&ssl=1&resize=350%2C200","width":350,"height":200,"srcset":"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/06\/ARLE-e1497282889671.png?fit=570%2C416&ssl=1&resize=350%2C200 1x, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/06\/ARLE-e1497282889671.png?fit=570%2C416&ssl=1&resize=525%2C300 1.5x"},"classes":[]},{"id":5454,"url":"https:\/\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/?p=5454","url_meta":{"origin":12065,"position":5},"title":"Autumn’s Surprise (by deansgirl)","author":"deansgirl","date":"October 30, 2012","format":false,"excerpt":"Summary:\u00a0 Autumn is setting around the Ponderosa and with it comes a very dear and long awaited surprise.\u00a0 \u00a0 Rated:\u00a0K+ (1,180 words) Autumn Series, links to all the stories within the series are included.","rel":"","context":"In "Chaps and Spurs"","block_context":{"text":"Chaps and Spurs","link":"https:\/\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/?cat=39"},"img":{"alt_text":"","src":"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/06\/Showdown3.jpg?fit=761%2C669&ssl=1&resize=350%2C200","width":350,"height":200,"srcset":"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/06\/Showdown3.jpg?fit=761%2C669&ssl=1&resize=350%2C200 1x, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/06\/Showdown3.jpg?fit=761%2C669&ssl=1&resize=525%2C300 1.5x, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/06\/Showdown3.jpg?fit=761%2C669&ssl=1&resize=700%2C400 2x"},"classes":[]}],"jetpack_sharing_enabled":true,"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/posts\/12065","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=12065"}],"version-history":[{"count":0,"href":"https:\/\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/posts\/12065\/revisions"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/media\/11583"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Fmedia&parent=12065"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Fcategories&post=12065"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Ftags&post=12065"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}