{"id":12084,"date":"2004-02-01T08:31:31","date_gmt":"2004-02-01T13:31:31","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/?p=12084"},"modified":"2025-09-25T15:20:53","modified_gmt":"2025-09-25T19:20:53","slug":"a-fistful-of-regret-by-debbieb","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/?p=12084","title":{"rendered":"A Fistful of Regret (by DebbieB)"},"content":{"rendered":"

Summary:<\/strong>\u00a0 When he accidentally punches Joe instead of Adam, Hoss is consumed with guilt.\u00a0 Will Joe lose his hearing?\u00a0 Will the youngest Cartwright ever forgive his gentle hearted brother for the injuries he sustained from the powerful blow to the side of his head?\u00a0 Will Hoss forgive himself or will he forever carry, a fistful of regret?<\/p>\n

Rated:\u00a0 <\/strong>G\u00a0 (10,600 words)<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

A Fistful of Regret<\/strong><\/p>\n

They stood nose to nose, glaring into one another\u2019s eyes. The younger of the two had to look up slightly, but the added height of the other man did not intimidate the smaller man. Nostrils flared, chests rose and fell in tune to the heavy breathing that both men were undergoing. Lips pinched tight across both handsome faces and tiny drops of perspiration dotted both brows.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

The older, taller young man pressed his finger deeply into the shoulder of the younger, shorter man and made a scowl across his face.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cGive it up, boy,\u201d he said in a deep tone, uncoated with anger.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

The other man pushed the finger away and took a tiny step closer. His jaw was clinched tightly and when he spoke, the anger was evident in his voice as well. He rose slightly up on his toes, making himself just a bit taller. His emerald eyes danced with fire.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cNot on your life, big brother. You started this, not me\u2026you wanna give it up, go ahead,\u201d he said, digging his finger into the taller man\u2019s chest.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam Cartwright slapped the hand away from his chest and backed up slightly, glaring at his younger brother.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI mean it Joe\u2026I\u2019m not going to fight you over this,\u201d Adam snarled, trying hard not to lose his temper enough to make him strike out at the one he called boy, who was standing just inches from him.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam turned to walk away, willing himself to drop the matter, for regrettably, he had egged this argument on and now wished to hell he had kept his mouth shut. A showdown, with his brother, was the last thing he wanted right now.<\/p>\n

\u201cYou yellow\u2026Adam?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

The curt remark reached his ears and Adam spun around. His face was red and angry darts radiated from his hazel eyes. His mouth was tight, his hands balled into tighter fists. The words stung, sparking his anger to new heights.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cIf you weren\u2019t my brother, I\u2019d kill you for that\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cDon\u2019t let that stop you, Adam\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Before Joe could finish his statement, Adam\u2019s strong fist sprang out from his side and plowed into the boy\u2019s jaw, sending Joe sprawling backwards into the dirt. Instantly the boy sprung to his feet and made a dive straight into his brother\u2019s mid-section.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWhoa!\u201d shouted Hoss, who had appeared out of the shadows just in time to intercept the dive.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

His massive hands grabbed Joe about the shoulders, preventing his charge to be fulfilled. Joe struggled furiously, trying to free himself from the vise like grip that his middle brother had on him.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cGet your hands off me, you big ox!\u201d grumbled Joe while twisting and jerking his body around in the strong arms of the much larger man.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cNot on your life\u2026now stand still. Galldangit Joe, stop fightin\u2019 me!\u201d bellowed Hoss, giving Joe a hard shake.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cLet him go, Hoss. He\u2019s been asking for a piece of me for days now, turn him loose,\u201d Adam said from where he stood behind Hoss, his fingers still molded into fists.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Hoss roughly pushed Joe back several paces and wiggled his finger under Joe\u2019s nose.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cDon\u2019t ya move from that spot!\u201d he ordered.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe, sweat dripping from his face, fists as tightly formed as Adam\u2019s, was hard put to stand in one spot. He danced lightly on his feet, chomping at the bit to throw a punch into Adam\u2019s smirking face.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Hoss whirled around, narrowing his eyes as he peered into his older brother\u2019s face.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWhat in blazes is wrong with ya Adam? Ya cain\u2019t fight the boy\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI ain\u2019t no boy!\u201d shouted Joe as he grabbed Hoss\u2019 arm and tried to spin him around.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Hoss slung his arm up, forcing Joe backwards. Joe\u2019s anger deepened as he made a growling sound and leapt unto Hoss\u2019 back.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cGet out of my way!\u201d roared Joe.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Hoss turned, pulling Joe from his back. Holding Joe off the ground in a firm grip, he flung Joe off to the side, sending Joe rolling head over heels across the ground.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam laughed, which wasn\u2019t the brightest thing to do. Hoss, angered by what he dubbed as Adam\u2019s indifference, doubled up his massive fist and delivered a solid punch to his older brother\u2019s jaw.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

The laughter instantly vanished as Adam tumbled over backwards.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cThere\u2026that\u2019ll teach ya!\u201d snarled Hoss, turning his back to his older brother in order to face his younger brother.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

He dusted his hands together and if the matter were settled.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe was brushing the dirt from the front of his trousers. He glanced up at Hoss, grinning from ear to ear.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cThank you\u2026now I can save myself the trouble,\u201d giggled Joe as he pointed to Adam, who was just getting to his feet.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYa ain\u2019t such a big man now, are ya?\u201d he said in a condescending tone.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cHush up Short Shanks,\u201d snapped Hoss. \u201cThis dang arguin\u2019 all the time ain\u2019t funny no more!\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cDon\u2019t blame me!\u201d yelled Joe, pointing his finger in Adam\u2019s direction. \u201cBlame him\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cMe?\u201d shouted Adam. \u201cYou\u2019re the one who\u2019s always\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Hoss spun around on his heels. \u201cShut up, Adam!\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cNo\u2026you listen\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Hoss made a fist, \u201cNo\u2026you listen.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

The fist came out of nowhere, but Adam had seen the movement and was quick to duck his head, avoiding the punch.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Neither had seen Joe move around to stand behind Adam. The massive fist intended for his older brother was headed directly toward him. Joe tried to avoid the blow, but only managed to turn his head to the side. Hoss\u2019 folded hand that formed the rock hard fist, landed directly on his brother\u2019s left ear.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe screamed in pain as he staggered backward, spinning on his heels and falling face down into the dust. His body automatically curled into a ball. His hands grabbed the side of his face where blood now oozed from his ear. Joe moaned loudly, recoiling as the pain in his ear became more intense.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam and Hoss froze, taken by surprise at the change of events. As if time had stopped, the pair stared in horror at the boy withering in agony just feet from where they stood.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cOh Lordy\u2026Little Joe,\u201d Hoss practically shouted as he dropped to his knees at the boy\u2019s side and carefully tried to turn his anguished brother onto his back.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam sank to the ground as well; all antagonism forgotten as he quickly placed his hands over Joe\u2019s and pried the smaller, blood-coated fingers away from his head. Adam glanced with horror into Hoss\u2019 blue, tear-filled eyes. Joe cried out as Hoss gently inspected the rapidly swelling flesh of his ear and cheek.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cJoe\u2026I\u2019m sorry little buddy\u2026I didn\u2019t mean to hit ya, honest,\u201d stammered Hoss, stunned by what he had done to his little brother. \u201cIt was an accident\u2026ya gotta believe me!\u201d he sobbed.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cMy head\u2026my head\u2026hurts,\u201d moaned Joe through gritted teeth.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

His body attempted to roll away from the hands that were caring for him. Adam held his neckerchief over the ear, slowing the flow of blood that seeped from the opening.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cTake it easy Joe,\u201d Adam whispered in reassurance. His voice was calm, giving no man a clue to the inner most mixture of emotions that conjugated around the walls of his heart.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cLet\u2019s get him inside and you ride for the doctor, Hoss,\u201d Adam ordered, seeing how upset Hoss was, he thought it best to give the younger man something to do besides stand and stare in shock at what he had committed.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cHOSS! Did you hear me?\u201d Adam said with a hint of authority while grabbing Hoss\u2019 arm and pinching it with his fingers to attract the traumatized man\u2019s attention.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Hoss moved his head ever so slightly, drawing his eyes from the boy\u2019s face to the man\u2019s face across from him.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI heard ya,\u201d Hoss said as if in a daze.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

He looked down at the boy and brushed his large beefy fingers through the mass of thick curls with every ounce of benevolence that the gentle giant was known for.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam saw Hoss swallow the lump that he knew had sprouted in his brother\u2019s throat and saw the fear in the blue eyes that had filled with tears.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Carefully, Hoss slipped his hands under Joe\u2019s body and lifted the smaller boy into his arms, cradling him against his chest as he hurried to the house. Adam ran ahead and swung open the door, moving to the side to allow Hoss to enter.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cTake him to his room,\u201d Adam said, slamming the door behind him as Hoss moved quickly up the stairs.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cPA!\u201d shouted Adam, going to peek into the kitchen.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben almost collided with his oldest son as he rushed around the corner.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWhat\u2019s wrong?\u201d he asked anxiously, noting the tone and Adam\u2019s worried look.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cIt\u2019s Joe, Pa\u2026he\u2019s been hurt. Hoss took him to his room, come on,\u201d Adam explained as he and Ben rushed to Joe\u2019s room.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Hoss had Joe stretched out on the bed and was removing the boy\u2019s boots. He glanced up at his father as Ben sat down on the edge of the bed and took Joe\u2019s hands and pulled them down from his head where he had been holding the side of his face that had been hit.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cAwww\u2026\u201d Joe whimpered.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cTake it easy son, let me have a look,\u201d Ben said softly. \u201cWhat happened to him?\u201d Ben asked as he inspected the side of Joe\u2019s face.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

As he waited for one of his sons to answer him, he grabbed the towel off the nightstand and dabbed at the blood that had begun to conceal on the outer edge of Joe\u2019s ear.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Hoss and Adam stood silent, each waiting for the other to speak up. Ben gave a quick glance over his shoulder at both and then returned his attention to his youngest son.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWill someone please explain this to me and then go for a doctor!\u201d snapped Ben. \u201cEasy Joe, I know it hurts son, you\u2019ve taken a tremendous wallop to the side of your head.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cIt was my fault, Pa,\u201d Hoss said in a reproachful voice.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben looked up at the strange quiver he heard in his middle son\u2019s tone and saw that Hoss had lowered his head and refused to look at him. Ben also noted the anxious and dejected look on the gentle giant\u2019s face.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI hit\u2019em\u2026with my fist,\u201d stammered Hoss, looking more remorseful than ever.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cIt was an accident, Pa\u2026and it wasn\u2019t his fault, it was mine,\u201d Adam hurried to say.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cNo\u2026no\u2026\u201d cried Joe, drawing his family\u2019s attention to himself. \u201cMe\u2026mine\u2026it was my fault,\u201d he said weakly.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWill someone\u2026\u201d began Ben.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam stepped over to Hoss and placed a hand on his brother\u2019s arm.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cHoss, why don\u2019t you ride into town and fetch Doc Martin, I\u2019ll help Pa get Joe settled and explain everything to him\u2026go on,\u201d he issued, pressing his fingers a little tighter and nodding his head toward the door.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019ll be back real soon\u2026\u201d Hoss said, taking the hint.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

He glanced down at Joe who had closed his eyes against the constant throbbing.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam waited until Hoss had left the room and then turned back to the bed, and his brother. He leaned over Ben\u2019s shoulder, watching as the expressions of pain made constant changes to the boy\u2019s handsome features. Already Adam could see the swelling to the side of Joe\u2019s cheek, and the ugly disfiguring bruise that would cover nearly half of that side of his face. Even the white of Joe\u2019s left eye had streaks of red and the lower lid had quickly swelled, nearly closing the eye.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben continued to coo softly to his son, whispering gentle commands to lie still and try to rest. Adam could see the mixture of emotions on his father\u2019s face that the senior Cartwright tried to hide from the wounded boy.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Hop Sing appeared with a basin of warm water and clean towels that he quietly laid on the table near the bed. He paused, looking down into the face of his favorite son. The kindly servant smiled when Joe\u2019s eyes found his face.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cLittle boy must luck to duck,\u201d Hop Sing teased gently.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe turned up the corner of his mouth, attempting to return the smile.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI tried,\u201d he said, and then closed his eyes, scrunching up his face.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cPa\u2026\u201d he stammered, \u201cthat ringing in my ears\u2026make it stop,\u201d he moaned, moving his hand up to hold that side of his head. \u201cHurts\u2026oh God\u2026my head\u2026\u201dmuttered Joe.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI know son, but try not to move around so much, the doctor will be here soon and I\u2019m sure he will give you something for the pain,\u201d Ben encouraged. Rising, he turned to Adam.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cLet\u2019s get him undressed and more comfortable\u2026and then you can explain to me how this little incident happened,\u201d Ben said.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

He had turned his back to the bed, disallowing Joe to see the angry glare that shone from his dark, expressive eyes.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe had opened his eyes. Though his vision in the left eye was somewhat blurred, he saw Adam quickly glance his way at the sound of heated words delivered to his older brother.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cAlright, Pa,\u201d Adam said, his true feelings lay behind the mask that Adam Cartwright wore so well.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Soon after they had Joe\u2019s clothes removed and dressed in a nightshirt, Ben took a seat close to the bed and motioned for Adam.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cNow, tell me what brought all of this about,\u201d Ben demanded.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

He kept his eyes fixed on Adam but occasionally glanced at Joe, watching the suffering that flickered occasionally on the young handsome face.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cIt was just a stupid argument, between Joe and I. It really had nothing to do with Hoss; he just tried to stop a fight before it got out of hand. He was aiming for me; I ducked. Neither one of us knew that Joe was standing behind me. Unfortunately for Joe, he received what was intended for me. Hoss never intended to hit Joe. He\u2019s always known he could hurt the boy, so he never has.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cUntil today,\u201d Ben snapped.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cSure\u2026but he didn\u2019t mean too. Pa, it was an accident! And besides, if Joe had just done what I asked him to do, instead of making a big deal out it, then this would never have happened!\u201d Adam said with a touch of sarcasm.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

He stomped across the room and pulled the curtain back to look down into the yard.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cSo you\u2019re saying, this was Joe\u2019s fault?\u201d Ben said in a loud voice as he followed Adam to the window. \u201cJoe\u2019s laying there hurt, with probably a busted ear drum, a black eye and with only God in heaven knows what other injuries, and you say this is his fault?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Angered by the statement and the way that his father had twisted his words, Adam spun around on his heels and faced Ben. The mask was gone, and the anger was easy for Ben to see in the dark hazel eyes that had taken on an unapproachable glare.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI meant no such thing. I told you it was just a stupid argument\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cThat Joe started\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cNO!\u201d shouted Adam.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

He moved away from Ben\u2019s side, back to the bed. Glancing down at Joe, he leaned over and felt the boy\u2019s brow.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cHead\u2026hurts,\u201d Joe whimpered when he felt the loving touch of the warm hand.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam sat down on the edge of the bed, next to his brother, ignoring his father who had moved to his side.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI know it does, buddy. Just take it easy, Hoss will be back with the doctor soon, I promise,\u201d Adam said softly.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam stood to his feet, glanced at his father and walked back to the window, where he stood motionless for several long minutes without saying a word. When he turned, Ben had resumed his vigil, sitting in the over-stuffed chair he had dragged along side of the bed.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam walked softly over to where Ben had his back to him and, taking a deep breath, placed his hand down over his father\u2019s shoulder. Ben glanced over his shoulder, surprised to see Adam standing there. The anger that had been present minutes before was gone now. In its wake was a look of repentance and remorse, so rarely seen by outsiders, but Ben saw the transformation that had taken place. He waited while Adam collected his thoughts and finally spoke.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019m sorry, Pa\u2026I shouldn\u2019t have snapped at you the way I did. I apologize.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben\u2019s lips were pressed tightly together, but his anger had vanished from his face as he nodded his head.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019m sorry too, son. I shouldn\u2019t have accused you. It\u2019s just that\u2026well\u2026I suppose I\u2019ll never be able to figure the three of you out. One minute you\u2019re like three pups fighting over a bone, and then in the next instant, you\u2019re all three fighting for each other, instead of against.\u201d Ben smiled warmly at his eldest. \u201cWhatever happened, I know Joe\u2019s getting hurt was an accident\u2026I hope Hoss knows that as well.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe continued to moan, and toss his head. He complained about the loud ringing in his ears and constantly placed his hands over that side of his face in an attempt to drowned out the unpleasant sound coming from within his head.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cJoe, please son, try not to move around so much,\u201d Ben said as he sat on the edge of the bed and placed his hands over Joe\u2019s, removing them from the side of his face.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben could see that blood still oozed from the ear and he glanced anxiously up at Adam who stood beside him.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cSorry\u2026Pa, I\u2019m tryin\u2019\u2026but it hurts so darn bad\u2026aw\u2026God\u2026\u201d Joe said.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

He turned his head away from Ben\u2019s hands and groaned softly.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI wonder what\u2019s keeping the doctor!\u201d Ben muttered.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019m right here,\u201d Paul Martin said from the doorway as he moved into the room.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben turned and quickly rose from the bed, giving the physician room to examine his patient.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cIt\u2019s the side of his head\u2026his ear; the blood won\u2019t stop oozing,\u201d Ben said, peering over the doctor\u2019s shoulder. \u201cI don\u2019t know what\u2019s causing it.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

The family physician looked up at Ben. \u201cHoss told me that he hit him,\u201d he explained. \u201cHoss was pretty upset about what happened,\u201d Paul added.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cIt was an accident,\u201d Ben said, \u201cOr at least that\u2019s what these two claim,\u201d Ben stated, giving Adam a critical look.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019m sure whether it was or not, Ben, Hoss never meant to hurt Joe,\u201d the doctor smiled at Ben. \u201cHe knows his own strengths, and he\u2019d never intentionally use it against his brother.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cNow, let\u2019s see what\u2019s going on,\u201d Paul muttered. \u201cBen, if you and Adam will excuse me\u2026I\u2019ll make my examination and join you both downstairs when I\u2019ve finished.\u201d he said over his shoulders.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam and Ben took the hint. Ben led the way as far as the door, letting Adam pass before him.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cDoc\u2026Is Hoss downstairs?\u201d Ben asked, standing in the doorway.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Paul Martin looked back at his friend; he shook his head no.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cHe wanted to stay in town for awhile. He said he needed a drink, but don\u2019t worry, Ben, he\u2019ll be fine, just give him a little time, as I said, he was pretty upset about this.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI can imagine,\u201d Ben said softly and closed the door.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cHoss\u2026I need to\u2026talk to him\u2026\u201d Joe said, trying to focus on the doctor rather than the throbbing pain in his ear.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cDon\u2019t worry about him, right now, young man. You have other things more important to worry about. Tell me, does this hurt?\u201d Paul said as he probed gently at the inside of Joe\u2019s ear.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cAww\u2026yes\u2026\u201d Joe said, making a face. \u201cThe ringing, Doc\u2026can ya make it stop?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cHold on, son\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Paul peered into the injured ear, frowning. Carefully he wiped away the oozing blood. With fingers as gentle as any loving parent, Paul pressed along the edge of Joe\u2019s jaw line, and looked into the swollen eye, noting the tiny red lines that streaked the white.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cBesides the ringing in your ear Joe, does your head hurt?\u201d Paul asked, sitting back watching the manifestations on the young face.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYeah\u2026it fills like it\u2019s gonna explode,\u201d Joe said with gritted teeth.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

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

 <\/p>\n

\u201cOh\u2026yes\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cAnd this?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cMy entire face hurts\u2026and inside my head\u2026what\u2019s wrong with me doc\u2026I mean\u2026besides the obvious,\u201d Joe asked, trying to form a smile.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019m not sure at this point, Joe. But don\u2019t you worry, I\u2019m going to give you something to curb the pain and help you to sleep,\u201d Paul said.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

He moved to his black satchel and rummaged around inside until he found what he was looking for. The white powdery substance, he stirred up in a glass of water and waited until he was sure that Joe had downed the entire contents of the glass.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYou lie still\u2026perfectly still young man, and close your eyes. I want you to rest while I go downstairs and have a word with your father, understand?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Paul began packing up his instruments.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYessir,\u201d Joe muttered. His left eye had closed entirely and Joe tried to focus his right eye on the door and the doctor. \u201cDoc\u2026would ya mind telling Hoss I\u2019d like to see him?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Paul stopped at the door and turned back to his patient. He forced a smile, \u201cIf he\u2019s home, I\u2019ll be sure to give him the message. You rest young man\u2026and whatever you do\u2026stay in that bed! Or I\u2019ll give you something to make sure you do,\u201d Paul laughed lightly.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI will\u2026I don\u2019t feel much like moving around anyway,\u201d Joe muttered, giving in to the rapidly working medication that the physician had administered.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019ll ride into town and look for him if you want me too,\u201d Adam told Ben.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

He needed to get some air, and riding into town to look for Hoss might be what he needed to clear his head, thought Adam.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cDon\u2019t you want to wait and hear what the doctor has to say?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben\u2019s tone was gruff; he was still a little more than perturbed about how Joe had been hurt and the why to his question had not been answered to his satisfaction. Now, with one son injured, one son missing and his oldest son seeming to want to run out on him, Ben was hard pressed to keep his anger from overflowing.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cOf course I do\u2026I meant I\u2019d go after the doctor speaks to us. For heaven\u2019s sake Pa, you don\u2019t think I\u2019m that cold and callus, do you?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam\u2019s voice had risen slightly and he turned from Ben, not wanting to let his father see how the sharp words had affected him. Of course he was worried about his kid brother, wasn\u2019t he to blame for Joe getting injured in the first place? Naturally, he hadn\u2019t thrown the punch, Hoss had done that, and sure Joe had put up an argument about his duties for the day, but hadn\u2019t he, Mister Big Man, issued the orders to start with? Didn\u2019t it all boil down to the fact that had he not been pushing his younger brother just a bit too hard, none of this would have happened? He wasn\u2019t even sure at the moment that the means justified his motives.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

He turned at the sound of footsteps on the stairs. Doc Martin was descending slowly, a frown furrowed deeply into his brow as he raised his head slightly and looked from Ben to Adam who had both met him at the base of the wooden staircase.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWell?\u201d Ben asked. \u201cHow badly is he hurt?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI wish Ben that there were some way that I could see beyond flesh and bone, to the inside of a man. But there\u2019s not, unfortunately, so, as in this case, I can only tell you what I believe might be wrong.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Paul saw Ben take a deep breath and ready himself for the worst.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cIt is possible, and highly likely that Joe has suffered a skull fracture. It could be that his eardrum is shattered, and his jaw is cracked\u2026and\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cDear God\u2026there\u2019s more?\u201d stammered Ben.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

He put his hand to the banister to steady himself.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cBen\u2026I can\u2019t be sure about the skull fracture, or the eardrum, or the jaw for that matter. It might only be one injury\u2026maybe two, but without being able to see inside his head, I can only give you the worse case scenario.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYou said there was more,\u201d Adam interrupted to head the doctor back to the prognosis.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cHis hearing\u2026I\u2019m worried about it.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben sat down on the arm of the settee, a look of dismay flashed across his face. \u201cWhat do you mean?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cIt could be that he might lose his hearing in that ear, if his eardrum is shattered. I won\u2019t be able to know for sure until the ringing stops.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Paul saw the horror in his friend\u2019s eyes and he could sense the helplessness the concerned father was feeling.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWe won\u2019t know until later\u2026so please, don\u2019t bargain for trouble, let\u2019s wait and see. Ben\u2026his hearing might be just fine\u2026once the ringing stops. Think positive\u2026for Joe.\u201d Paul placed a hand on Ben\u2019s arm, squeezing gently.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cBen, I want someone to sit with Joe around the clock. If he has a skull fracture, the best thing for him is to stay in bed, rest and lie as completely still as possible. I know that for Joe, it won\u2019t be easy, so I\u2019m leaving you some powders to help with the pain and to keep him mildly sedated, so he\u2019ll sleep. I\u2019m going back up to bandage his ear, hopefully to squelch the blood\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWhat about the blood\u2026what\u2019s causing it?\u201d Ben asked.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWell, a skull fracture\u2026that could be the cause. The blood isn\u2019t bad, so hopefully it will stop soon. Ben, I\u2019m sorry I can\u2019t tell you more\u2026or give you better news, but\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cNo, that\u2019s enough, Paul. You can only do what you can\u2026I\u2019ve never complained about the care you give us, never.\u201d Ben rose, smiling at the doctor. \u201cAnd you\u2019ve had plenty of practice, on my boys!\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cIndeed I have, Ben, indeed I have. Look, try not to worry. Joe just needs to rest and remain quiet. One thing though Ben, and Adam, you might watch for this as well, but if Joe does have a head injury, he might become somewhat combative when he wakes. It\u2019s natural due to the swelling inside his head, but once that starts to decrease, he should be fine. Just don\u2019t let him hurt himself again if he does get that way. When he wakes, let him eat something light and give him another powder. That should keep him sleeping for several hours, so perhaps we can avoid anything nasty.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Paul started toward the door to get his hat and coat.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019ll be out in the morning to check on him. I\u2019m not expecting anything to happen, but if you need me, just send someone and I\u2019ll come straight out.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cThank you Paul,\u201d Ben shook hands with the physician and then turned to Adam.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019ll sit with Joe\u2026are you going to ride into town with Paul?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI think I should find Hoss\u2026and tell him what Doc said, don\u2019t you?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cKnowing Hoss, he\u2019s beside himself with worry\u2026and too ashamed of himself to come home. Yes, please Adam, see if you can find him, and when you do, tell him to get himself back here, pronto. I have a feeling that Joe\u2019s going to wake up and expect to see Hoss\u2026and if he\u2019s not here\u2026well, I don\u2019t want anything upsetting that boy right now. He\u2019s too sick\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cAlright Pa\u2026don\u2019t you worry,\u201d Adam said in a strong voice. \u201cI\u2019ll find him, and I\u2019ll bring him home even if I have to tie him across his saddle to do it.\u201d Adam smiled slightly. \u201cI\u2019ll be back to take my turn sitting with Joe\u2026don\u2019t worry Pa\u2026the boy will be fine\u2026and so will Hoss.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben returned the smile and held the door while Adam turned to leave. \u201cThank you Adam, and son\u2026I\u2019m sorry for\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cForget it, Pa\u2026I didn\u2019t mean to make it sound as if I was laying all the blame on Joe\u2026it wasn\u2019t just him, it was all three of us\u2026but mostly me. I wasn\u2019t happy about the way that the silent bidding on that stallion went, and I suppose I took it out on Joe, and I shouldn\u2019t have.\u201d Adam grinned.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWhy did you then?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI don\u2019t know\u2026I suppose when I found out that it was Joe bidding against me and he won\u2026\u201d Adam lowered his head slightly and looked from beneath lowered lashes at his father. \u201cJealous maybe\u2026the kid out smarted me this time\u2026and I suppose it didn\u2019t set too well. Wounded pride, maybe?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cMaybe,\u201d Ben said softly. \u201cSo you gave him the worst jobs\u2026to get even? Rather childish, wouldn\u2019t you think, Adam?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWhen you say it like that\u2026I guess it does. I\u2019m sorry\u2026and I\u2019ll apologize to Joe when he\u2019s better. Guess I\u2019d best be going\u2026no telling how much Hoss has had to drink by now.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam donned his hat and turning on his heels, left his father standing in the door watching him. Ben pressed his lips together, shaking his head from side to side as he closed the door. He briefly wondered if he would ever be able to figure out his sons.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cHe\u2019s over in the corner, Adam. He\u2019s been drinking all night,\u201d the barkeeper said, pointing to the back corner where Hoss sat alone. Several empty beer glasses sat scattered about the table in front of the big man.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Hoss glanced up as Adam pulled out a chair across from his brother and sat down.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cMind if I join you?\u201d he said casually, removing his hat and placing it on the table in front of him.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cNaw\u2026want a beer?\u201d Hoss mumbled; his speech was just slightly slurred.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cFrom the looks of all this,\u201d Adam waved his hand over the top of the empty mugs, \u201cI\u2019d guess that you\u2019ve drank enough for both of us.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Hoss looked up, eyeing his brother. \u201cI ain\u2019t drunk\u2026leastways, not yet, I ain\u2019t.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cJoe\u2019s been asking for you Hoss.\u201d Adam saw no point in beating around the bush. He pressed on. \u201cI think you should come home, he needs you.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cHe needs me?\u201d laughed Hoss, though there was no humor in his laughter. \u201cThat ain\u2019t likely and ya know it. I plum near kilt\u2019em\u2026he don\u2019t got no need for the likes of me!\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Hoss grabbed his mug and downed the remainder of the brew. \u201cBARKEEP!\u201d he shouted, holding up his empty glass and motioning for another beer. He plunked the mug down on the table and looked across at Adam.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cDon\u2019t you think you\u2019ve had enough\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Hoss\u2019 eyes turned dark and he twisted up his face in anger.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cDon\u2019t ya tell me when I\u2019ve had enough to drink\u2026I ain\u2019t Little Joe\u2026ya cain\u2019t be tellin\u2019 me what to do all the time like ya do him!\u201d Hoss said in a loud voice. \u201cYa ain\u2019t my keeper either, now go away and leave me alone!\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam sat in stunned silence for a moment, studying his brother\u2019s face. Hoss was well on his way to being drunk and Adam knew that if it went that far, it would take half the night just to get the big man home.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cThat\u2019s what ya always doin\u2019\u2026bossin\u2019 everyone around like ya always adoin\u2019 Little Joe. Ya act like ya the only one what knows anythin\u2019 about cattle ranchin\u2019, and minin\u2019, and lumber\u2026ya a big mouth\u2026\u201d Hoss hiccupped and swallowed, swaying slightly in his chair.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam held his tongue, letting Hoss\u2019 heated words go unheeded. They stung a bit, Adam thinking that perhaps with the amount that Hoss had had to drink, he might be expressing what he really felt in his heart. Adam knew that with Hoss\u2019 tender heart, no matter what animosity he might feel when sober, he\u2019d never express himself as he had just done.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cCome on Hoss\u2026let\u2019s go home\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cNO! There ya go again, tryin\u2019 to tell me what to do!\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Hoss took a long drink from the fresh mug that the barkeep had placed in front of him. Drops of the frothy ale dripped from the sides of his mouth and rolled off the end of his chin to drip onto the front of his shirt.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam glanced around at the patrons in the saloon, some of which were taking their pleasure, watching the two of them. He sighed deeply.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cIt\u2019s always been like that,\u201d Hoss muttered.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cLike what, Hoss?\u201d Adam said, leaning back in his chair thinking to let his brother get whatever he was feeling, off his chest.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Hoss swallowed the beer in his mouth and leaned forward, slamming his glass onto the table. A tiny bit of froth splashed over the top and left a puddle on the table.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYa\u2026always bossin\u2019 the boy\u2026tellin\u2019 \u2018em what to do, when to do it, how to do it, why to do it\u2026never givin\u2019 \u2018em credit when he deserves it\u2026always makin\u2019 \u2018em feelin\u2019 like he ain\u2019t good \u2018nough\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cThat\u2019s enough, Hoss.\u201d Adam stood to his feet. \u201cLet\u2019s go, it\u2019s time to get home.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam moved around the table and placed his hand on Hoss\u2019 arm. Even in his besotted state, Hoss was able to fling Adam\u2019s hand away.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI don\u2019t need ya\u2026I can get up by myself,\u201d stammered Hoss, pushing back his chair and rising, just to prove his point. \u201cSee, I ain\u2019t so drunk I cain\u2019t stand up,\u201d he growled.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam stepped aside, giving the over-enthusiastic man space to move. Hoss took two steps and began to sway. Adam quickly grabbed his brother\u2019s arm and allowed Hoss to lean against him.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cCome on big brother, you need some fresh air,\u201d Adam said as he led Hoss toward the door.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Once outside in the cool night air, Adam led Hoss to the nearest water trough and turned him around so that Hoss could sit on the narrow end. Once sure that his brother was safely perched, Adam surprised Hoss by gently pushing him backwards. Hoss slipped into the trough, startled by the cold water.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

For several moments he splashed and sputtered beneath the surface. Adam was forced to reach his hand down into the trough and yank Hoss\u2019 head to the surface. Hoss, holding onto the sides, spewed water in a stream, from his mouth. He glared up at Adam with an exasperated look.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWhy\u2019d ya go and do that?\u201d he snapped.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYou need sobering, quick like\u2026feel better?\u201d Adam asked, helping his brother from the water.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Hoss stepped out of the trough and pulled away from Adam\u2019s helping hand. He balled up his fingers, making a fist as he drew back his arm.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam watched, waiting for the powerful punch that he knew he deserved to hit his face. For a fraction of a second, he wondered if it would make him feel any better about himself, or if it would serve Hoss to feel the same. It was obvious that both he and Hoss felt the blame for what had happened to Little Joe.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Hoss paused, his fist held high in mid-air; he glanced across the top of his shoulder at the hand that made a tight fist, and gulped, swallowing hard. Slowly, with a vanquished look on his face, Hoss lowered his arm. With eyes that suddenly showed his remorse he looked up at Adam.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI nearly kilt\u2019em, didn\u2019t I?\u201d he stammered, pulling his fist up in front of himself and Adam. He brought his other hand up as well.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cLookit these hands, Adam\u2026they can lift a heifer plum off of the ground and I can lick most any man alive\u2026with just these hands\u2026but I cain\u2019t undo what I dun to my little brother!\u201d sobbed Hoss.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Hoss lowered his arms to his sides and bowed his head. His sorrow was evident in his tear filled eyes. He sniffled his nose, wiping the dampness with the sleeve of his shirt. He raised his head slightly, looking sadly into Adam\u2019s dark eyes.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019d cut my arm off, if\u2019n I could take back that punch,\u201d he murmured softly. \u201cI\u2019d willingly die for that boy, if\u2019n I had too\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cHoss, Joe knows that\u2026we all would die for him, if we had too. He also knows that what happened was an accident. That punch was meant for me, not him; and I deserved it\u2026I was taunting Joe. I didn\u2019t realize it until a little while ago, when Pa pointed it out to me. I\u2019m sorry Hoss\u2026it was childish of me, and I deserved that punch, not Joe\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Hoss startled Adam by suddenly laughing.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWhat\u2019s so funny?\u201d Adam questioned, staring at the odd expression on his brother\u2019s face.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWe are,\u201d Hoss said, sobering.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYou aren\u2019t making any sense, brother,\u201d Adam said.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cLook at us\u2026we\u2019re both standing here trying to take the blame for what happened. Not more\u2019n a few hours ago, you and Joe were about to pound each other, I was gonna pound you, but ended up pounding the scamp instead\u2026ain\u2019t none of it makes any sense.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Hoss emptied his ten-gallon hat of the water that collected inside and plopped it down on his head. He turned to Adam, grinning slightly.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI didn\u2019t mean those nasty things I said back there\u2026I\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYes you did.\u201d Adam held up his hand. \u201cBut it\u2019s alright Hoss, you didn\u2019t say anything that wasn\u2019t true. I am a son-of-a-gun\u2026at times,\u201d he said, slipping his arm about the broad shoulders and giving his brother a dimpled grin.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cMost of the time,\u201d Hoss whispered, allowing his brother to lead him toward the waiting horses.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cNo\u2026I think I can be somewhat understanding\u2026most of the time.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

They had reached their mounts and Hoss paused before mounting and gave Adam a doubtful look.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cIt takes ya awhile\u2026but ya usually end up gettin\u2019 there,\u201d he said, smiling at last. \u201cLet\u2019s go home, I wanna see my kid brother.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Hoss groaned as he pulled his heavy frame up, into the saddle and waited for Adam to mount up. Without any further conversation, the brothers turned toward home and rode out of town.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

It was late when the duo rode into the yard. Both glanced at the upstairs window and saw the dim light that glowed softly through the thin shears covering the window from inside.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Together the brothers marched into the house. Hoss pulled his hat off and hung it on the peg, and then removed his gun belt as well. He ran his fingers through his thinning hair and turned to ascend the stairs.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben stood on the landing, a worried look furrowed into his brow as he watched his middle son cross the room.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWelcome home, son,\u201d he smiled at last. \u201cJoe\u2019s been asking for you.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cHowdy, Pa,\u201d Hoss stammered.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

He slowly looked up into this father\u2019s face, pinching his thin lips tightly to form a straight line across his mouth.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019m sorry about not comin\u2019 back with the doc\u2026and I\u2019m sorry for hurtin\u2019 Joe\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben came down two steps and placed his hand gently on Hoss\u2019 shoulder. He was not the least surprised to feel the slight tremors that surged through his middle son\u2019s body, for he had known that Hoss would suffer emotionally from his self imposed guilt.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYour clothes are wet\u2026what happened?\u201d Ben said, purposely leading the conversation in another direction.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2026um\u2026I\u2026well, I sorta fell into the watering trough,\u201d Hoss said meekly.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben snickered softly. He glanced at Adam who was standing directly behind his brother and saw how Adam raised his brows. Ben had an idea that his oldest son had something to do with how wet his middle son\u2019s clothing was, but he let that conversation drop as well.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYou best get out of those wet clothes before you catch a cold,\u201d Ben ordered, stepping aside to allow Hoss to pass.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYessir\u2026how\u2019s Joe, Pa?\u201d Hoss said, pausing on the step above his father.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cHe\u2019s resting. Paul said he could have skull fracture, or a ruptured eardrum, maybe both\u2026it\u2019s too early to say for sure. But he\u2019s going to be fine, Hoss\u2026in a few days and with plenty of rest,\u201d Ben rushed to assure his son.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

He had seen the disheartened look that came into Hoss\u2019 expression and chose not to mention the fact that Joe might lose his hearing in his left ear as well. Later, when Hoss had rested and sobered up, for his father could see and smell the beer that Hoss had consumed and knew that his gentlest of sons, was suffering himself.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cGo ahead, get changed into something warm, and then go to bed\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cBut I wanna see Joe\u2026I need to tell him\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cHoss, Joe\u2019s sleeping. He\u2019s not likely to wake up before morning, if then. The doctor wants him to rest and not to get himself worked up. There will be plenty of time for you to\u2026have a talk with your brother, tomorrow,\u201d Ben ordered gently.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Hoss scrunched up his face and nodded his head. \u201cYessir\u2026but\u2026cain\u2019t I just go in and take a quick peek at\u2019em afore I turn in\u2026please?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cAlright Hoss\u2026after\u2026you have changed,\u201d smiled Ben.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cThanks Pa\u2026I think I\u2019ll rest better, once I seen\u2019em.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Hoss hurried on to his room to change, anxious to go see his brother.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cLooks like he\u2019s had way too much to drink,\u201d Ben said as he joined Adam in the great room.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cLet\u2019s say he was pretty much past his limit. How\u2019s Joe, really?\u201d Adam asked.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cLike I said, he\u2019s resting. Hop Sing is sitting with him. I wanted to talk to you\u2026about Hoss. How\u2019s he doing, besides having a hangover, I mean. Did he say anything?\u201d Ben said.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

He poured himself and Adam a brandy and turned, handing the tiny goblet to his son. Ben sat down on the edge of his seat and waited for his son\u2019s answer.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam tossed the drink down his throat and gave a little snort.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cOh\u2026he said plenty,\u201d he snickered, remembering how his brother had accused him of being overly bossy and practically calling him a tyrant. Adam snickered again.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cHe showed me a side of myself I hadn\u2019t seen before.\u201d Adam gave his father a cheeky grin. \u201cWasn\u2019t the most pleasant revelation I\u2019ve ever had, I might add. But he was right\u2026I am all those things he called me\u2026and more,\u201d Adam stated solemnly.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI guess I shouldn\u2019t ask then, about\u2026those things?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019d rather not get into them, if you don\u2019t mind,\u201d Adam declared. \u201cThey\u2019re things I need to think about\u2026and change. I owe Hoss and Joe much more than I give to them, Hoss made me see that tonight.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben watched as the mask fell slowly away from his eldest son\u2019s outer shell and revealed the true man behind the mask.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI realized tonight, how much my brothers mean to me\u2026how much I regret\u2026not being more of a source of inspiration to them, instead of\u2026such a\u2026dictator.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben\u2019s eyes widened. \u201cHoss called you a dictator?\u201d he asked.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cNot in so many words, he didn\u2019t\u2026but I got the idea that he and Joe both think of me as such. I suppose they\u2019ve a right too, I mean\u2026I\u2019m not the easiest person to please\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cAdam,\u201d said Ben, rising and moving to sit on the table, facing his son. \u201cWhatever you believe yourself to be\u2026you have always had your brothers\u2019 best interests at heart. Never think otherwise.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cThanks Pa\u2026I know I have\u2026I guess it\u2019s just the methods I use to get that point across to them. I suppose I\u2019ll have to rethink my tactics,\u201d he smiled.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

The mask was replaced as if pulled into position by a mystical cord. Adam stood to his feet, grinning down at his father.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cLet\u2019s go check on the little scamp, shall we?\u201d he invited his father.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Hop Sing looked up as his employer entered the room. He had been sitting next to the bed, keeping a close eye on his favorite number three son. The faithful little servant rose to relinquish his seat to the boy\u2019s father.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cMister Hoss come in, tell sleeping boy that he sorry for hurting him. Boy no need to hear, he know in heart that big brother no mean to harm him,\u201d smiled Hop Sing.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cNumber two son, he need to know that boy forgive him, though. Mister Hoss\u2026he have tender heart, much like small child. He need hear from boy\u2019s own mouth before big man able to forgive self. He carry much fistful of regret.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Hop Sing bowed to Ben and Adam and padded softly from the room. Ben looked at Adam with a worried expression on his face.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI hope Joe can say the right thing to Hoss, once he wakes up. And, I certainly hope that his hearing isn\u2019t impaired, Hoss would never forgive himself if he thought he was responsible for permanently harming the boy,\u201d Ben said, turning back to Joe who had begun to moan softly.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben went straight to the bed and sat down. \u201cJoe?\u201d he called softly.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

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

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019m here son. How does your head feel\u2026does it still hurt?\u201d Ben asked.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cThe ringing has stopped,\u201d Joe said, forcing his one good eye opened. \u201cMy head still hurts some, but not like it did. What time is it?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWhy\u2026you going somewhere?\u201d asked Adam, smiling.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

He stood next to his father, watching Joe try to focus the clear eye on his face.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWork\u2026you said it was my turn to muck out the barn\u2026and clean the chicken coop. Don\u2019t you remember?\u201d Joe asked, somewhat puzzled by the strange look that suddenly washed over his older brother\u2019s face.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI remember Joe\u2026but I was mistaken,\u201d he paused, glancing down at his father. \u201cIt was my turn\u2026and it\u2019s already been taken care of\u2026so you just rest and don\u2019t worry about anything. I\u2019ll tend to your chores for the next few days.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam gave his brother a one-sided smile. \u201cI\u2019ll see you in the morning, sport. Rest easy. Good night Pa, wake me if you need me,\u201d Adam said, moving toward the door.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben waited until he heard the sound of the door closing before smiling down at Joe.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWhat\u2019s with him?\u201d Joe asked, glancing at the closed door. \u201cWhy\u2019s he suddenly being so nice to me? It wasn\u2019t his turn to muck out the barn, nor the chicken coop, and he knows it. It was mine.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cPerhaps his doing it\u2026was his way of telling you that he was sorry\u2026for the nasty things he\u2019s said and done to you the last couple of days,\u201d Ben hinted.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe\u2019s mind called to memory the last few days and he was tempted to agree with his father. His older brother had been riding him pretty hard, talking strong to him, and issuing him the most unpleasant tasks needing to be tended to.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

But just as quickly, his mind brought forth his own actions and the ways that he had purposely been making little curt remarks behind Adam\u2019s back and trying the man\u2019s patience. His most vivid memory was the way he felt when he found out that Adam was going to bid on the Arabian stallion coming up for auction. Joe had been hording his money, for the purpose of having enough to out bid his older brother, and win for himself, what Adam had most desired.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Suddenly the pain in his head compared nothing to the pain in his heart. Joe felt like a heel, unworthy of his brother\u2019s respect\u2026or trust, though he knew the why of his motive, and the ultimate outcome of his purchase, but seeing Adam\u2019s face when his brother found out who it was that had outbid him, caused Joe to grieve slightly for Adam who had been the loser.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe closed his eye, unable to meet his father\u2019s dark, probing eyes. He could not tell his father what had possessed him to purposely outbid his brother, or to bid on the second horse. If his father knew he\u2019d plan to do so all along, Joe wasn\u2019t sure that his father would understand, without revealing everything about why he chose to do so. He\u2019d have to wait, until the time was right, to justify himself and then hope that his entire family would understand, and forgive him.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

He felt his father rise from the bed and heard when Ben moved to the chair and sat down.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Hoss tossed and turned, unable to sleep. His nightmare continued to haunt his dreams each time that he closed his weary eyes. It was always the same, his fist folded into a tight wad of hard knuckles and always flying out before his eyes. His ears recounted more times than he, himself could keep track of, the screams that emitted passed his younger brother\u2019s lips as Joe rolled on the ground before him, withering in agony.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Sweat beads boiled up from beneath the skin of his brow. Hoss shivered, but not from cold, but from the fear of what that one blow to the side of Joe\u2019s head might cost him\u2026and the boy. What if Joe lost his hearing, as the doctor had suggested, and what if, because of his own foolishness, Joe would never forgive him for that loss? Could he live with it, could he ever be able to look his kid brother in the eye again and know that beneath Joe\u2019s cool exterior, he actually hated him? The thoughts caused Hoss to push back the blankets and crawl from his warm bed. His own head pounded from the affects of the alcohol he\u2019d consumed, and he pressed his thick hand to his own brow, wondering how, with this much pain in his own head, Little Joe could bare the pounding going on in his head. Both pains, his own and his brother\u2019s, was his fault, Hoss concluded. He had even hurt Adam. Not physically, but emotionally, by the nasty things he had flung at him while in a drunken state of mind.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cDadburnitall,\u201d muttered Hoss, slipping on his night shoes and staggering to the door.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

He had promised to wait until morning to have a word with Joe, but now, after loosing hours of sleep, he could wait no longer. It was still nearly three hours before sunrise, what would it matter if he faced the boy now, or later? What he had to say, had to be said, and Hoss reckoned, the soon, the better.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Quietly he slipped from his room and down the hall, easing silently into Joe\u2019s room. His father was sleeping in the chair, his silver head resting against the back. Someone, most likely Hop Sing, had covered Ben with a lightweight blanket. His father snored softly.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Hoss tip-toped past, to sit carefully on the side of the bed.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cJoe,\u201d he whispered softly, expectantly.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cPsst, short shanks,\u201d he whispered again, this time gently nudging the boy\u2019s shoulder.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Hoss glance over at his father, but Ben was still sleeping.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cJoe, wake up\u2026please.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe moaned softly and then Hoss saw the one good eye open and look at him.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cHoss?\u201d Joe muttered.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cShh\u2026Pa\u2019s sleepin\u2019. I don\u2019t wanna wake\u2019em. How ya feelin\u2019, Punkin?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019m alright\u2026what\u2019s wrong\u2026why\u2019d ya wake me?\u201d Joe said, straightening himself somewhat in the bed.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2026I\u2026just\u2026needed to talk\u2026to ya\u2026that\u2019s all,\u201d Hoss said, suddenly unsure how to say the things he was feeling.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cCouldn\u2019t it wait until morning?\u201d Joe asked. \u201cThis medicine sure does make me sleepy.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Hoss lowered his head to hide his disappointment. \u201cI\u2026suppose it could,\u201d he whispered softly, rising and turning to go.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe\u2019s hand suddenly reached out and grabbed Hoss\u2019.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWait\u2026don\u2019t go\u2026please?\u201d Joe said in a pleading voice. \u201cI need to tell you something too,\u201d he confessed.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYou do?\u201d Hoss asked, surprised. He sat back down on the bed, waiting.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI just want you to know Hoss\u2026I don\u2019t blame you for any of this. I know you didn\u2019t hit me on purpose\u2026honest.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Hoss\u2019 expression showed his relief and he smiled at his little brother.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYa don\u2019t? Well, that\u2019s a relief, cause that\u2019s what I was gonna tell ya\u2026that I\u2019m sorry for hittin\u2019 ya, and that I wasn\u2019t aimin\u2019 at ya, I was intendin\u2019 that fist for Adam\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI should have moved quicker when I saw Adam duck,\u201d Joe snickered softly.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Hoss giggled too.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cOh\u2026don\u2019t make me laugh, big brother\u2026it hurts too much,\u201d Joe said, clutching his forehead. He looked Ben\u2019s way to see that his father was still sleeping.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cSorry,\u201d grinned Hoss.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cHoss,\u201d Joe said seriously, \u201cI know you\u2019d never hurt me on purpose, so please, don\u2019t fret yourself about this. I\u2019m going to be fine, I promise,\u201d Joe smiled.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

The love he felt in his heart for the big man sitting on the bed with him, shone in his one eye.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cBesides\u2026now I don\u2019t have to go up to the north pasture in the morning and clean out that old pond Adam ordered me to clean,\u201d he said with a cheeky grin. \u201cMaybe I should be thanking you\u2026reckon?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI reckon not\u2026\u201d a deep whispered voice broke through the darkness. \u201cIt\u2019ll keep until you\u2019re well enough. Now go to sleep.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Hoss and Joe turned to the doorway, seeing Adam standing in the glow of the hallway lamplight.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cHey, Big Brother, come on in,\u201d Joe whispered.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam, a cup of coffee in one hand and book in the other, eased quietly into the room and over to the bed.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYou\u2019re suppose to be resting, young man,\u201d Adam scolded gently.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI know\u2026and I will\u2026I promise. But I wanted to tell you something,\u201d Joe said.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cMake it fast, before Pa wakes up and decides to tan all our hides,\u201d Adam cautioned.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

He moved to the other side of the bed and sat down. \u201cWhat is it you wanted to tell me, kid?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI ain\u2019t no\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI know, I know\u2026we\u2019ve been over that before\u2026what Joe\u2026what is it that\u2019s so important that it can\u2019t wait?\u201d Adam said, trying not to let the humor he felt, show in his eyes.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

The mask was so damn hard to wear at times, especially at times like this, when he wanted nothing more than to pull the obnoxious boy into his arms and just hold him.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cIt\u2019s about that Arabian stallion I out bid you on\u2026I\u2026I\u2026I knew you wanted him, in the worst way\u2026I mean\u2026before I started to bid\u2026I knew,\u201d Joe said, glancing at his brother to check his reaction.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI figured as much\u2026but why? Why did you want to outbid me\u2026you had to have a reason\u2026you usually do,\u201d Adam tried not to let his disappointment be seen and hoped that he sat deep enough into the shadows to hide the expression.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI had my reasons,\u201d Joe said softly. \u201cI wanted him\u2026for a gift. I\u2019m was aiming to give him to someone who means a lot to me, as soon as I\u2019m well enough. You see, Adam, sometimes I have a hard time letting\u2026certain people\u2026know how I feel about them. Like now\u2026I don\u2019t know how to tell you\u2026why I purposely out bid you. I seem to only know how to anger you, how to make you yell at me and then complain when you accuse me still being a kid.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe swallowed. Joe glanced up into his brother\u2019s dark eyes and made a smidgeon of a smile.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cNext month is someone\u2019s special day\u2026someone\u2019s birthday\u2026but now that I\u2019m laid up\u2026I won\u2019t be able to break that stallion like I wanted too. I know it\u2019s asking a lot, but do you reckon you could do it for me? I mean, after all, I out bid you cause I wanted to be the one to give him to you as a birthday present and all, but since\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWHAT!\u201d Adam shouted in a whisper.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam looked to be sure he had not disturbed his father, but he failed to note the tiny smile that played across his father\u2019s face as Ben continued his charade.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cJoe\u2026are you trying to tell me\u2026that after all I\u2019ve\u2026said and done to you\u2026you\u2019re\u2026giving me that stallion as a gift? I don\u2019t understand, Joe\u2026I\u2026don\u2019t deserve something than fine\u2026I\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cAdam, you deserve much more\u2026and so do you Hoss\u2026that\u2019s why I bought that little sorrel filly you had your eye on. I overheard the two of you the other day in the barn talking about how you\u2019d like to breed the stallion and the sorrel\u2026so\u2026she\u2019s yours,\u201d Joe said with a twinkle in his one opened eye.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cBut\u2026but\u2026Joe\u2026I don\u2019t know what to say\u2026\u201d stammered Hoss, giving a look over Adam\u2019s way and seeing that he was grinning.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYou don\u2019t have to say anything, Hoss\u2026neither do you Adam. It\u2019s my way of telling both of you what\u2019s really in my heart\u2026it\u2019s the only way I know to show you that\u2026that\u2026I care about both of you,\u201d Joe said.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

He smiled at both, pleased to see the wide grins on both the rotund face and the dimpled face of his brothers.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cAnd to think I thought you weren\u2019t anything but a\u2026well, on second thought\u2026never mind what I thought, obviously, I was wrong\u2026again. You know Little Joe, I\u2019ll never be able to figure you out,\u201d snickered Adam.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

He wanted to hug the kid, but, having the feeling that right at this moment of his life, Joe must surely have been feeling quite \u2018the man\u2019, Adam offered his hand instead.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cThank you, ki\u2026Joe\u2026I\u2019ll make sure that stallion is broken properly,\u201d promised Adam.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYeah thanks, Short Shanks\u2026and when that little sorrel has her first colt, he\u2019s yours\u2026just \u2018cause\u2026well\u2026\u2019cause up \u2018til a few minutes ago, I sure \u2018nough had me what ole Hop Sing called \u2018a fistful of regret\u2019. But thanks to ya\u2026I don\u2019t feel so bad any more,\u201d Hoss snickered.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYa somethin\u2019 special Little Joe, somethin\u2019 real special, ya know that?\u201d Hoss stammered. \u201cAin\u2019t he, Adam?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYeah Hoss\u2026he\u2019s a special young man\u2026but remember this kid\u2026when you\u2019re on your feet again, it\u2019s your turn to clean out that pond\u2026and I won\u2019t hear no back talk about it either.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam stood to his feet, smiling as he turned to go. \u201cGo back to sleep\u2026you need your beauty rest, you look a mess,\u201d he said good-naturedly.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Hoss and Adam stopped in the doorway to look back at their brother and both smiled. Joe had fallen to sleep in an instant. Quietly they shut the door, unaware that behind them, Ben had opened his eyes and was smiling with pride at his three sons.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cHe amazes me,\u201d Paul Martin told Joe\u2019s father and brothers, several days later.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe was sitting on the settee, enjoying being downstairs with his family. Paul had made a quick examination of his patient and turned to Ben, smiling.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cHe seems fine. I cannot find anything wrong with him\u2026his hearing is fine, the blood has completely stopped oozing, which is a great relief, and the swelling is going down. The only thing left is the bruising, but that will fade in time,\u201d grinned the doctor.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019m still not able to work though, right Doc?\u201d Joe called from his seat on the couch where his family had gathered to hear the doctor\u2019s report. He cast his eyes in the general direction of his brothers, avoiding looking directly at Adam.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cNo\u2026I don\u2019t want you doing anything of the such, not for at least a couple more weeks. Then there will still be limits, just in case. I\u2019ll tell you when it\u2019s safe for you to resume your regular work habits,\u201d Paul informed Joe and the others.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWhat regular work habits?\u201d Adam whispered in a low mumble.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI heard that,\u201d Joe said, giving Adam a sad, puppy-dog look.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cSo did I\u2026which reminds me Adam\u2026that pond in the north pasture needs cleaning soon\u2026 like this afternoon? The men are driving those new steers up there first thing in the morning. Now you best get going,\u201d Ben ordered and then turned to see what had caused the high-pitched giggles from his youngest and middle sons.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam gave each a dark glare.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cHoss,\u201d said his father, \u201cyou go with him, Adam\u2019s going to need some help.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Hoss\u2019 laughter died instantly and he puckered up his face in disgust. \u201cAw dadburnit,\u201d he grumbled.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe continued to giggle, making no attempt to hide his amusement at the faces his two older brothers were making. Suddenly he hushed, seeing his father glaring at him.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cAnd you\u2026you little scamp\u2026be assured that if you were well enough, you\u2019d be going along. As it is, I have other plans for you\u2026like honing your math skills\u2026on my ledgers!\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam and Hoss burst into laughter. They both knew what a chore it was to straighten out their father\u2019s mistakes, for they both had been subjected to the task.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cBut Pa\u2026\u201d stammered Joe.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cNo butts, young man! Just because you are twenty-years old, is not reason enough to discontinue improving your mathematical skills.\u201d Ben slipped his arm about the slender shoulders as Joe rose from the settee.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWhy just look at all the education your brother Adam has gotten for himself. And he\u2019s turned out very well\u2026don\u2019t you think?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cSure, just look at him\u2026four years at Harvard and he\u2019s cleaning out murky mud holes. If it\u2019s all the same to you Pa\u2026I think I\u2019ll\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe paused, seeing what he hoped were mock frowns on the faces of each man in the room, including the doctor.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI think I\u2019ll go back to bed. Can we start on those ledgers, first thing in the morning\u2026please?\u201d Joe said in a tiny voice.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben laughed. \u201cGo to bed young man\u2026you shouldn\u2019t have gotten up anyway.\u201d Ben turned to the physician. \u201cI tried to tell him\u2026but does he ever listen\u2026NO!\u201d laughed Ben.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cAdam, Hoss\u2026did you want something?\u201d Ben asked, surprised to see them still standing around.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cNo Pa,\u201d Adam grinned, glancing up at his kid brother who waved at them from the top step. \u201cI think I have everything I need.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Hoss followed his brother\u2019s line of vision. \u201cYeah, me too.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cGood-bye, then.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben waited until the pair had left before turning to his friend and laughing merrily.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cThere\u2019s never a dull minute around here with those three,\u201d he commented.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYou\u2019re a lucky man, Ben. I don\u2019t know any other men who care as much for one another as those three boys care about each other\u2026and you. What more could a man ask for, but to have the love and respect of his children?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cNothing\u2026there\u2019s absolutely nothing, that compares to it. But what makes me most proud, is the fact that Adam, Hoss and Joe\u2026though they often go at it amongst themselves, each one would willing lay down their own lives to save the others, without question. And no matter what happens between them, they still manage to find their way back to one another.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben moved to stand before the massive fireplace. For a moment he was silent and then turned back to his friend.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019ve spent my life, Paul, trying to instill in each one of them, the advantages they have of being brothers. I wanted them to know that when everyone else around them, turned their backs on them\u2026they\u2019d always have each other to rely on. I tried to teach them the importance of being family. It\u2019s my legacy to them\u2026not this house, nor this land, not all the money I\u2019ve managed to tuck away, but the love, and the honor, and the respect, of being a part of one another, and of knowing that no matter what happens between them, they don\u2019t have to carry around a fistful of regret, for the other two are always there for the one,\u201d concluded Ben.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Paul\u2019s face had taken on a serious expression as he nodded his head in agreement. He smiled at his friend, feeling a little of what Ben was trying to express.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWell said, friend, well said\u2026and done,\u201d acknowledged the doctor.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

THE END<\/p>\n

FEBRUARY 2004<\/p>\n

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

Summary:\u00a0 When he accidentally punches Joe instead of Adam, Hoss is consumed with guilt.\u00a0 Will Joe lose his hearing?\u00a0 Will the youngest Cartwright ever forgive his gentle hearted brother for the injuries he sustained from the powerful blow to the side of his head?\u00a0 Will Hoss forgive himself or will he forever carry, a fistful of regret?<\/p>\n

Rated:\u00a0 G\u00a0 (10,600 words)<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":9052,"featured_media":3741,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"template-full-width-post.php","format":"standard","meta":{"_jetpack_newsletter_access":"","_jetpack_dont_email_post_to_subs":false,"_jetpack_newsletter_tier_id":0,"_jetpack_memberships_contains_paywalled_content":false,"_jetpack_feature_clip_id":0,"_jetpack_memberships_contains_paid_content":false,"footnotes":"","jetpack_publicize_message":"","jetpack_publicize_feature_enabled":true,"jetpack_social_post_already_shared":false,"jetpack_social_options":{"image_generator_settings":{"template":"highway","default_image_id":0,"font":"","enabled":false},"version":2},"jetpack_post_was_ever_published":false,"_members_access_role":[],"_members_access_error":""},"categories":[23,1008,41],"tags":[],"class_list":["post-12084","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-drama","category-family","category-hurtcomfort","wpcat-23-id","wpcat-1008-id","wpcat-41-id"],"jetpack_publicize_connections":[],"jetpack_likes_enabled":true,"jetpack_sharing_enabled":true,"jetpack_featured_media_url":"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/wp-content\/uploads\/2014\/04\/Hossb.jpg?fit=444%2C339&ssl=1","_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/posts\/12084","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\/9052"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Fcomments&post=12084"}],"version-history":[{"count":0,"href":"https:\/\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/posts\/12084\/revisions"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/media\/3741"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Fmedia&parent=12084"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Fcategories&post=12084"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Ftags&post=12084"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}