{"id":12144,"date":"2005-02-01T15:09:39","date_gmt":"2005-02-01T20:09:39","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/?p=12144"},"modified":"2025-02-27T12:09:09","modified_gmt":"2025-02-27T17:09:09","slug":"ellen-my-love-by-debbieb","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/?p=12144","title":{"rendered":"Ellen, My Love (by DebbieB)"},"content":{"rendered":"

Summary:\u00a0 <\/strong>Happy with his new love, his new home and expecting great things from his new life, Hoss isn’t prepared for the sudden twist that turns his world upside down and inside out.<\/p>\n

Rated:\u00a0 <\/strong>G (9,300 words)<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ellen, My Love<\/strong><\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Hoss took a deep breath and let it out slowly as he straightened to his full height. Carefully raising his hands upward to see if they were still shaking, he took another breath. His heart was racing, beating double time deep within his massive chest and his stomach seemed to be filled with butterflies it was trembling so.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cThis is ridiculous,\u201d he muttered softly to himself, \u201cshe\u2019s just a gal\u2026hmm\u2026a pretty little filly to be sure,\u201d he sighed. His lips twisted into a scrunched up smile and his sky blue eyes took on a faraway look. His expression was dreamy.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Hoss set his lips firmly and knocked on the door. He quickly remembered to remove his hat and now he twisted it nervously around in his both huge hands.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

As he waited for an answer to his knock, his thoughts filtered back to earlier that morning when he had proclaimed his love of this woman to his family. Adam had cast one lopsided glance in Joe\u2019s direction, which sent the youngest of the three Cartwright boys into a fit of outlandish giggles.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018You said the same thing last month, about Bessie Sue,\u2019 Joe had taunted.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018And the month before that, it was Sarah Wilkerson,\u2019 Adam had added with a grin that only served to enhance the deep dimple in his cheek.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Both young men laughed heartily.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Aw\u2026cut it out, them women were just\u2026just\u2026\u2019 stammered Hoss, causing Joe and Adam to snicker that much more.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Alright you two, that will be enough, leave your brother alone,\u2019 Pa had said, though Hoss had seen the laughter in his father\u2019s dark eyes that Ben had tried so hard to hide but failed.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Laugh all ya want, but when I\u2019m a happily married man and the two of you are still chasin\u2019 the skirts, I\u2019ll have the last laugh!\u2019 Hoss remembered blubbering.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018MARRIED!\u2019 his family had shouted sounding much like a chorus of boys with high-pitched voices that had yet to mature.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

It was Hoss\u2019 turn to laugh; three pairs of wide-eyed men staring at him with mouths open were more than he could stand. It was hard to contain his amusement, though he hadn\u2019t meant to tell them of his plans; it always seemed as if they had a way of getting the truth out of him before he was ready to tell it.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cDadburnitalltoblazes,\u201d muttered Hoss under his breath.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Again, he knocked on the door, harder than before, letting his thoughts drift a second time. It was true, he did want to married the beautiful Ellen LaPlante, his beautiful half French, half Irish, sweetheart, he determined. He just hadn\u2019t meant to announce it to his family before he had even asked the lovely lady. If she refused, he\u2019d look like a fool and he\u2019d have no one to blame other than his own impulsive self, his mind accused.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Hoss was so deep into his own private thoughts had he failed to hear the door open or see his vision come to life, right before his eyes.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ellen smiled. Hoss\u2019 crystal blue eyes had such a dreamlike glow to them that she almost hated to pull the gentle man from his ponderings. She heard him sigh; the gentle puff of air was akin to an ardent yearning sound and the thought caused her heart to flutter slightly.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

The lady stretched forth her hand, brushing his arm with her long slender fingers, gently allowing them the pleasure of resting on his forearm.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cHoss?\u201d she said softly, her voice resounding with all the pleasantry that she was known for.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Hoss\u2019 thoughts suddenly vanished from his mind as he spun around and gazed into the light moss green of his true love\u2019s eyes. His face lighted up, looking as if he had just stepped into the warm glow of the sun\u2019s rays. Blue eyes danced with joy, revealing the love that burned deep within his heart, his heart however was on his sleeve and though he thought he was doing a good job of hiding his true feelings, Ellen had no need to inquire. Love glowed in the passionate desire that failed to be hidden.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

He swallowed, making a gurgling sound deep in his throat; his face reddened in embarrassment as his fingers nervously rung his hat about in a circular motion.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cAfternoon, Ma\u2019am,\u201d he blabbered in a shaky voice, somewhat caught off guard by the beauty\u2019s presence.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cGood afternoon, Hoss,\u201d smiled Ellen.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

A long strained silence followed the awkward greeting. Hoss was at a loss for words, having devised a speech beforehand, it seemed to have relapsed into his subconscious where it was lost in a forgotten forest of other unvoiced, romantic quotes that he had practiced.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cIt\u2019s nice to see you again,\u201d she said softly. \u201cWould you like to sit down, I\u2019m almost finished packing the picnic basket?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYes\u2019em,\u201d Hoss stammered, feeling rather foolish for just gawking at the love of his life.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ellen waited for Hoss to move to the swing, but his big boots seemed glued to the boards that made up the porch floor. She couldn\u2019t help but hide the smile that threatened to break across her face. He is such a sweet fellow, she thought, pointing at the porch swing.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cOh\u2026\u201d Hoss said, blushing pink. \u201cDo ya need any help, Miss La Plantie\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cLaPlante,\u201d she gently corrected.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cLa\u2026.Plan\u2026te\u2026\u201d repeated Hoss, sitting down.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ellen stifled a soft giggle, not wanting to make Hoss feel more uncomfortable than he appeared to be.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cHoss?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Hoss jumped nervously to his feet, causing the swing to bang against the wall of the house.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYes Ma\u2019am?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWhy don\u2019t you just call me Ellen? I think we know each other well enough by now that the familiarities can be dropped, don\u2019t you?\u201d Ellen suggested.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWell, yes\u2019em, Miss La\u2026Ellen, ma\u2019am\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cEllen, just simply Ellen, Hoss, please?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cAlright\u2026Ellen,\u201d beamed Hoss bashfully.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYou have a seat and I\u2019ll be right back with the basket. I hope you like fried chicken and potato salad? I made a chocolate cake too.\u201d she smiled.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ellen stood with her dainty hand holding on to the door and waited for Hoss to make some sort of reply, but he was starring again at the vision before him unable to utter a word.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cHoss?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cOh\u2026yes ma\u2019am\u2026ere\u2026Ellen, anything will be fine\u2026I ain\u2019t picky when it comes to eatin\u2019,\u201d he assured her.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cGood,\u201d she smiled as she disappeared into the house.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Hoss looked straight ahead until he heard the screen door bang shut and then turned his head to peek inside. He could see Ellen moving about in the kitchen putting items into the basket. His mouth watered with the thoughts of fried chicken and the chocolate cake. He briefly wondered if she had asked his father or one of his brothers what his favorite food was, but then decided she hadn\u2019t. How had she known, he pondered while he waited. Were they so much alike, that perhaps fried chicken and chocolate cake was her favorite and just hoped that he would enjoy the same things? The thought left him with a giddy feeling inside that caused him to lick his lips in anticipation of the meal and of the company. Hoss had looked forward to this day\u2026the day in which he had set aside, just for Ellen. It was a special day, the day that he planned on asking Ellen to become his wife\u2026Mr. and Mrs. Hoss Cartwright, he gleamed\u2026<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019m ready!\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Startled from his pondering, Hoss leapt to his feet.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cHere,\u201d he said, \u201cLet me carry that,\u201d he ordered as he took the basket from Ellen\u2019s hand and offered her his arm.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Together they walked into the yard toward the buggy, which had been cleaned and shined to perfection. Quickly he set the basket under the seat and helped Ellen into the buggy. When she was situated, he climbed in beside of her and turned, smiling warmly.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cComfortable?\u201d he asked.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cVery,\u201d she answered.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Hoss gathered up the reins and slapped them down on the broad rump of the horse.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cGitty-up, Patty,\u201d he called.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cPatty?\u201d Ellen asked in a teasing tone. \u201cNot named after some long lost love, is she?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Hoss\u2019 eyes took on an expression of surprise as he shook his head.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cNo ma\u2019am,\u201d he said. \u201cMy Pa named her\u2026Ponderosa Patty\u2026why that particular name, I have no clue, but that\u2019s what he called her.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cPonderosa Patty\u2026I like it,\u201d smiled Ellen. \u201cIt has class\u2026like Queen Elizabeth, or\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cAnnie Oakley?\u201d snickered Hoss.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ellen laughed. Her voice was like music to the gentleman\u2019s ears and Hoss turned to look into the glowing embers of Ellen\u2019s green eyes. She returned his smile with one of her own.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYes, like Annie Oakley,\u201d she agreed as she linked her arm with his.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Hoss shuddered; her closeness sent shivers of excitement coursing through his huge frame. Once more he glanced down at her face, studying the finely chiseled features. Ellen was looking at the landscape and failed to notice that she was being scrutinized. Had she known, she would have blushed, for she had no inkling of the thoughts that ran rampant through her admirer\u2019s mind as they rode along in contented silence.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cIt\u2019s so pretty here,\u201d she said, turning and smiling up at Hoss.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYes\u2019em, this is my favorite place on the whole ranch, in the whole world really.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI can see why, just look at that lake, I\u2019ve never seen anything so blue in my entire life!\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cLook how it reflects the mountains,\u201d Hoss said, pointing across the wide expanse of the royal blue liquid. \u201cThe snow capped peaks look sorta like diamonds glitterin\u2019 on the water.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cIt\u2019s beautiful, Hoss,\u201d she beamed. \u201cThank you for bringing me here\u2026I wish I could stay here always, but I know that\u2019s impossible, therefore, I shall always remember today.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Hoss felt his cheeks tingle with redness and knew he was blushing again. He moved closer, placing his hands tenderly on her slender shoulders and turned Ellen around so that they were face to face.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cIt\u2019s not impossible, Ellen\u2026\u201d he murmured in a voice thick with emotion.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cHow can it not be?\u201d she whispered.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Her eyes had fixed on his and the depth of passion that reflected back at her left her feeling weak and trembling inside.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cEasy\u2026just\u2026marry me.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWhat!\u201d she stammered.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cMarry me, Ellen and I\u2019ll build you a house, any kind of house you want, right here on this very spot\u2026and we\u2019ll fill it up with young\u2019ons\u2026as many as ya want, boys and girls\u2026I\u2026I\u2026love you, Ellen, with all of my heart,\u201d Hoss blurted out in a rush of words.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cOh\u2026Hoss\u2026\u201d the young woman muttered lowly. \u201cI\u2026don\u2019t know what to say!\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Hoss\u2019 blue eyes glowed with anticipation as he gently pulled Ellen into his arms. He lowered his head, his lips inches from hers. The big man yearned to kiss her, but refrained for a moment longer, allowing his desire to deepen.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cSay yes, and make me the happiest, proudest man alive,\u201d he whispered softly.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ellen allowed her body to bold against his, her own passion beginning to match her admirer\u2019s. She turned her head slightly so that she could feel his warm breath on her face.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

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

 <\/p>\n

It was a mere whisper, one word that said it all and filled the man for whom it was meant, with more joy than he had ever experienced in his entire life. So soft was it uttered, that Hoss was unsure whether he had actually heard correctly or if it was just wishful dreaming. For a fraction of a second, the gentle giant\u2019s heart stopped beating. With hands so gentle, he turned her face upward again and studied his reflection in her emerald eyes.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

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

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYes!\u201d she smiled, giving in to his sudden urge to kiss her.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

The kiss was long and fervent, leaving both Hoss and Ellen moved by the impassioned need that surged through both of them.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

When Hoss at last removed his lips from hers, he looked down at Ellen\u2019s face, so lovely, so beautiful and then suddenly pulled away from her, his emotions at last bubbling over.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYIPEE!\u201d he shouted, wrapping his arms about her slender body and spinning them both around in circles. \u201cYIPEE!\u201d he bellowed again.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cOh Hoss\u2026darling\u2026put me down\u2026please!\u201d she squealed in delight. \u201cYou\u2019re making me dizzy!\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Hoss\u2019 laughter billowed up from the bottom of his soul as he stopped spinning, refusing to let go of his true love. Once more he lowered his head, his lips sought hers in a second hot, impassioned kiss. Together, arms locked about the other, the couple slipped to the hand stitched quilt that lay atop the moss covered ground. Lost in the need to squelch the passion that ignited their desires, the couple was unaware of the world that spun around, about them until much later.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

At the sound of the front door banging opened, Ben spun around, startled. He had been standing before the fire, poking at the dying embers, trying to bring new life to the once roaring blaze.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe, who had been sitting on the settee with his back to the door, craned his neck around to see who had burst into the house in such an improper manner, glad it had not been himself, knowing that such an entrance would only result in a sharp scolding from their father.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWhat the?\u201d stammered Ben.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cGUESS WHAT!\u201d shouted Hoss as he flung his hat onto the credenza and tromped over to his family. He noted the expectant looks on all their faces.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI have no clue,\u201d Ben snorted, \u201cwhat is the meaning to all this ruckus, Hoss, you know better than to make such an entrance,\u201d Ben chided.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019m sorry, Pa\u2026I just couldn\u2019t help myself\u2026guess what? Guess what?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe glanced over at Adam who had yet to say a word, and rolled his eyes.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cShe said\u2026yes,\u201d teased Adam, grinning at his youngest brother, who by now had gotten to his feet, the book forgotten. He had no clue that he had just hit the nail on the head.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Hoss, for a split second, eyed his older brother. Then he grinned, bobbing his head up and down in agreement.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYep!\u201d he beamed.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

The big man stuffed his fingers into his pockets as he rocked back and forth on his heels.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cShe sure\u2019nough did\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWhat?\u201d shouted Ben.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYippee\u2026\u201d bellowed Joe as he flung his slender body into his older brother\u2019s arms.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Hoss and Joe giggled uncontrollably.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam rose from his seat and moved to his father\u2019s side, glancing at the expression on his parent\u2019s stunned face.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cDid you hear that, Pa?\u201d Joe asked excitedly, \u201cBig brother here is getting married!\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben\u2019s face showed his confusion, but he smiled, nodding his head.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYes, I heard\u2026Hoss,\u201d Ben said, taking his son\u2019s hand into both of his and pumping it vigorously up and down. His smile broadened to show his joy. \u201cThat\u2019s\u2026that\u2019s wonderful son\u2026just wonderful!\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cReally, you\u2019re pleased, ain\u2019t ya, Pa?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben was still pumping Hoss\u2019 hand. \u201cOf course! Of course, I\u2019m absolutely thrilled with the prospect of having a daughter-in-law,\u201d Ben assured his son.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWhen\u2019s this big event suppose to take place?\u201d Adam questioned as he stepped up to congratulate his brother.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Hoss was grinning from ear to ear, his face glowed with happiness and his blue eyes sparkled.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cAw shucks, Adam\u2026I just asked her\u2026we ain\u2019t set no date yet\u2026but I hope it\u2019s soon.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWell, let\u2019s not rush into things, son,\u201d Ben advised. \u201cThere are certain things that a young woman likes to plan for, and her wedding day is probably the most important day in her life\u2026so give Miss LaPlante time to plan\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYou mean, for her dress and who to invite and who not to invite and what to eat\u2026things like that?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYes\u2026\u201d laughed Ben, \u201cthings like that.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cAnd you have to make some plans too, you know,\u201d Adam added.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cPlans?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cLike\u2026a new suit,\u201d Little Joe laughed, \u201cyou can\u2019t get married in your work clothes\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cAnd a house\u2026where are you going to live?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cHmm\u2026a house?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Hoss stared at the others as they all burst into laughter.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYou are welcomed to stay here\u2026in your room,\u201d Ben said seriously, though he was teasing.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYeah,\u201d Adam said, rubbing his hands together in anticipation, \u201cit will be nice to have a woman in the house\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cTo help Hop Sing cook and clean and darn our socks and scrub our backs\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Hoss\u2019 eyes widened and he glared at Joe.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cMy wife ain\u2019t gonna be darnin\u2019 no body\u2019s socks but mine\u2026and you find your own woman to scrub ya back\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Again the others burst into laughter, laughing so hard that tears formed in their eyes. Hoss was stunned into silence for a long moment until the realization that he was being teased, dawned on him, and then he too laughed along with his family.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam slipped his arm about his middle brother\u2019s broad shoulders and gently guided him toward their father\u2019s desk.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cCome on big boy, I have the perfect house plan in mind for you, lots of room for a growing family!\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Less than a week later, construction on the new house was well under way. Hoss worked hard, adding as much detail to the livability of the dwelling as to the style and design. There was no need of his family to ask if the big man was satisfied with his soon-to-be new home, the happiness was etched into every line on his sun-bronzed face.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Hoss stood back a ways from the structure, sipping water from the ladle he held in his hand. His father and two brothers stood nearby, watching him.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYa reckon she\u2019ll like it?\u201d he pondered aloud.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe moved to stand closer to his brother, wiping his forehead with his neckerchief to ward off the sweat beads.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cShe\u2019d have to be blind, not too\u2026Hoss\u2026it\u2019s\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cThe nicest house in the territory,\u201d Adam supplied with a smug grin. \u201cAnd I designed it!\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Hoss turned around and grinned at his older brother, blushing.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cAw shucks, Adam, ya know that ain\u2019t so\u2026the Ponderosa\u2019s the best house around\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cNow you wait just a minute, young man,\u201d Ben laughed. \u201cThe Ponderosa is, and always will be, the best house\u2026for me\u2026but this,\u201d Ben waved his hand out to emphasize the new house being built, \u201cwill be the best house for you\u2026and Ellen,\u201d grinned Ben.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Hoss could say nothing, but turned and looked again at the home where he would soon be living with his new bride. Excitement coursed through his veins\u2026anticipation pumped his heart\u2026love consumed the man\u2026Hoss was drowning in happiness, unable to fathom that soon, he\u2019d be a married man\u2026and that someday, sooner or later, he might even become a father!<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cOkay, now keep your hands over your eyes,\u201d Hoss said as he jumped from the buggy and hurried around to the other side where he could help Ellen down. \u201cNo peekin\u2019.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cOh, Hoss,\u201d Ellen whispered. \u201cWhy are you being so mysterious? What have you done?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI told ya before, it\u2019s a surprise. Careful now, let me hold ya arm so\u2019s ya don\u2019t trip,\u201d Hoss cautioned as he led his true love over to stand before the now nearly completed house.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

His heart was racing. His mind buzzed with a silent prayer that Ellen would like her new house. He had meant to tell her about it, but at the last moment decided that he\u2019d make it a wedding present, but then he got overcome with anxiety, worrying that Ellen might feel cheated for not having a say in how the house should be built. So, he had decided to bring her out to the construction site, let her have a sneak preview of the goings on and then ask her, her opinion on how she\u2019d like things arranged.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cOkay, open your eyes,\u201d Hoss chanted as he backed up to give Ellen plenty of space to take in everything.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Slowly, Ellen did as requested and opened her eyes. For a moment, she stood in disbelief of what she was seeing. As her mouth dropped open and her hands flew to her face, a tiny squeal of joy escaped her lips.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cOHHHH, HOSS!\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Hoss\u2019 eyes narrowed as he stared at her lovely face.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

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

 <\/p>\n

Ellen turned; eyes glowing with unshed tears of joy. \u201cWrong?\u201d she stammered. \u201cHoss, darling\u2026it\u2019s lovely, it\u2019s\u2026perfect\u2026it\u2019s\u2026ours?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Hoss bellowed with laughter. \u201cOf course it\u2019s ours\u2026who did you think I built if for?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cOh darling!\u201d Ellen said as she flew into Hoss\u2019 waiting arms.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Her lips sealed his in a heated kiss, sending the blood gushing to all points of passion consuming both of them.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWhoa, Missy,\u201d laughed Hoss, \u201cYou better not do that again, or people will start talkin\u2019 about us!\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ellen refused to pull away from her lover\u2019s embrace. Instead she moved her head enough to look into Hoss\u2019 face, flushed pink with embarrassment.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI don\u2019t care\u2026let them talk, I\u2019m not ashamed of what I\u2019m feeling\u2026are you?\u201d she giggled in a mischievous fashion.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

The rosy glow to the man\u2019s cheeks deepened as he wrinkled his nose and grinned down at the lady who had captured his heart and brought more joy into his life than he had ever hoped possible.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cOf course not\u2026I\u2026I love you\u2026Ellen\u2026Ellen, my love,\u201d he murmured in a thick voice.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Hoss, lowered his head and covered her mouth with his, taking away her breath as she welded her impassioned body into his. They remained as such, each locked in the ecstasy\u00a0\u00a0 of the love that flowed between them, until such a time that they were required by nature to pull away and begin breathing again.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cJOE!\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe ran into the room, nearly colliding with his middle brother who had rushed to the bedroom door to yell again.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cJOE\u2026oh, I didn\u2019t see ya comin\u2019,\u201d Hoss said as he fidgeted with the long black string tie that he had wrapped about his neck.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWhat\u2019s wrong, Hoss?\u201d Joe inquired with a lopsided grin.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

He knew without really having to ask, just seeing how Hoss had managed to make a knot in the tie around his neck was fair warning that the nervous groom was having trouble tying his own tie.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe started to giggle, slapping away Hoss\u2019 clumsy fingers from the tie.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cThis thing looks more like a noose than a gentleman\u2019s tie,\u201d he snickered, looking up at his brother.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cAw, dadburnit, Joe\u2026I can\u2019t do a thing right this mornin\u2019, I\u2019m as clumsy as a bull in a China shop, not to mention how my hands are shakin\u2019. Just look here,\u201d Hoss groaned as he held his large beefy hands out so that he could confirm his worries.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe grinned broadly as he fashioned a neater looking bow and knot in the string tie.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYou aren\u2019t going to the gallows, Hoss\u2026you\u2019re just getting married.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWell, right now I think I\u2019d rather face a hangin\u2019 than that little filly I\u2019m fixin\u2019 to be saddled with for the rest of my life!\u201d Hoss proclaimed as he turned to inspect his reflection in the mirror.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

From the doorway, his father watched and suddenly burst into laughter, causing Hoss and Joe to turn around.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI wouldn\u2019t let the future Mrs. Hoss Cartwright hear you make a statement like that! Saddled in deed!\u201d laughed Ben happily.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cAw shucks, Pa\u2026I didn\u2019t mean it like that\u2026I just meant\u2026doggoneit\u2026I\u2019m scared half outta my wits!\u201d the groom groaned heavily, causing his kinfolk to laugh again.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cCome on, son,\u201d Ben said, taking Hoss\u2019 arm and gently guiding him toward the door, \u201cthe ceremony is about to begin.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Hoss swallowed hard, his forehead wrinkled and he cut his eyes around at Joe.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYou comin\u2019 Shortshanks?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cOh brother,\u201d Joe said, rolling his eyes. \u201cOf course I\u2019m comin\u2019\u2026I wouldn\u2019t miss this hanging for nothing on earth,\u201d he giggled.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cJoseph!\u201d Ben scolded good-naturedly, \u201cStop teasing your brother, can\u2019t you see he\u2019s nervous enough without you adding to it?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe\u2019s giggle rose slightly as he placed a brotherly arm about Hoss\u2019 massive shoulders and walked out into the hallway with him.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cSorry\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cSure ya are,\u201d Hoss muttered in whispered voice.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

The great room was already filled with guests who milled around anxiously waiting for a glimpse of the bride. Hoss smiled at his friends and neighbors as he took his place along side his two best men, his brothers\u2026Adam and Joe. They stood in front of the reverend, waiting for the music to begin, announcing the arrival of the soon-to-be, Mrs. Cartwright.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben had disappeared. Having been asked to give the bride away, he stationed himself at the top of the stairs, anticipating the honor of walking his new daughter-in-law up to the alter, where Ben could see his middle son whispering to his brothers. Ben smiled; never before had he seen Hoss so happy, or so handsome in his new, finely tailored dark suit.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

For a fraction of a second, a sense of sadness washed over him as his thoughts envisioned Inger\u2019s lovely face and how much, right at this very moment, Ben missed his wife.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Down the hall a door opened and shut and a vision of loveliness stepped into the hallway. Ellen\u2019s beauty was unmatched and her exquisitely designed white wedding gown served to enhance her grandeur.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben gasped at the radiance that seemed to fill the hallway as Ellen walked gracefully toward him, glowing with happiness.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWell, how do I look\u2026Father?\u201d she beamed at Ben.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben felt a swelling of his chest as his emotions rose to the surface. He grinned at Ellen and nodded his head.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cIf I were many years younger\u2026I\u2019d have to try to win your heart away from my very own son. You are a vision of loveliness, Ellen,\u201d Ben whispered.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

He placed both hands tenderly on Ellen\u2019s shoulders and leaned down, kissing her gently on the forehead.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cMay your life always be as beautiful as you are right now.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cOh\u2026Mr. Cartwright\u2026thank you! I love you\u2026you do know that, don\u2019t you?\u201d she asked, dabbing at the tears that welled in her eyes.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI love you, too\u2026we all do, and I know our lives will be much happier with you included,\u201d Ben assured her.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cThank you\u2026oh\u2026the music\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cReady?\u201d Ben smiled, offering her his arm.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cAs ready as I\u2019ll ever be,\u201d she replied, happily as she slipped her arm around his.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

All eyes turned upward to stare in awe at the beautiful bride and her handsome escort. Hoss felt his heart begin to pound, deep within his chest. His face lit up in a radiant glow of happiness and the proud look on his face told all observers how truly happy the gentle giant was.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben held his hand out slightly in front of him. Ellen gently rested her hand atop his as together they descended the steps. Ben took his time as the music played the wedding march. He had seen the look in his middle son\u2019s eyes and wanted the memory of this moment to be seared forever in the boy\u2019s heart and mind. Never before had Ben seen his son as happy and filled with joy as he did now, watching his bride descend the stairs and glide across the floor to take her rightful place beside her soon-to-be husband. Ben watched as Hoss devoured his beautiful bride from head to foot with joyful glee.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Slowly Ben guided Ellen through the mass of on-lookers, leading her to the makeshift alter of God where Hoss waited. He was certain that he could see the tremors that surged up and down and throughout the boy\u2019s body.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWho giveth this woman in marriage?\u201d the reverend asked as soon as the music had stopped.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Hoss smiled bashfully down into the face of the woman he loved, lost in a sea of green that colored her eyes, unaware of the others who had gathered around. His heart and soul belonged to Ellen\u2026lovely, beautiful, desirable Ellen.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI do,\u201d Ben said in his deep rich voice.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

He placed Ellen\u2019s hand on top of Hoss\u2019 large, work calloused hand, knowing that despite the wear that the hand showed, he knew how very gentle and tender they could be at times such as these.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cDearly beloved, we are gather here, in the site of God and man, to join this man and this woman in holy matrimony\u2026.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

For several long moments, Hoss was aware of nothing except the woman whom he had fixed his eyes on. He felt ten feet tall standing before a roomful of friends and family, knowing that within hours this fine specimen of womanhood would belong to him completely, his for the remainder of his days, until death do them part. Every inch of his body tingled with joy, happiness and expectancy.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cDo you Eric Hoss Cartwright, take this woman, Ellen Rochelle LaPlante to be your lawfully wedded wife, to love and honor from this day forth until death do ye part, so help you God?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Hoss smiled down at Ellen, silent, until he felt a sharp jab in his side. His smile momentarily vanished as he glanced down and glared at Joe. Joe nodded his head gently toward the preacher.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cOh\u2026\u201d muttered Hoss. He turned, squeezing Ellen\u2019s hand gently. \u201cI do\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cAnd do you, Ellen Rochelle LaPlante, take this man, Eric Hoss Cartwright to be your lawfully wedded husband, to love and honor and obey, from this day forth, until death do ye part, so help you God?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI do\u2026I do\u2026I do\u2026I do\u2026\u201d gibbered Hoss repeatedly.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI do\u2026I do\u2026I do\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cPa, what\u2019s wrong with him?\u201d Joe asked, looking down at his brother.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cIt\u2019s the fever, son, your brother has been seriously ill,\u201d Ben explained as he dabbed at the tiny sweat beads that had accumulated on Hoss\u2019 brow.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cHow long has this been going on?\u201d Adam wanted to know.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cTwo, three days now, Doc\u2019s been out everyday.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cBut what\u2019s wrong with him?\u201d Joe questioned again as he watched how Hoss tossed his head about on the pillow.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cDoc\u2019s not sure, son, but he said this morning, before you two got home, that the fever should break today\u2026all we can do at this point is wait,\u201d the anxious father explained.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Hoss moved his head slightly; his lips formed a smile and he muttered softly.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI do\u2026I do\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam and Joe exchanged troubled glances.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI do?\u201d Joe whispered.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cHe must think he\u2019s getting married,\u201d Adam responded almost with a grin at the thought of his big, middle brother getting hitched.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben looked up from the side of the bed where he had been sitting with his son.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI believe you\u2019re right, Adam. He keeps calling out a name\u2026Ellen, I think\u2026yes, that\u2019s it, Ellen and he continues to mutter, \u2018I do, I do\u2019\u201d, Ben explained.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cCome on, let\u2019s allow him to get some rest. I haven\u2019t been much good at keeping the chores caught up for you while you were gone to Mineral Springs, but\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam and Joe followed their father from the room and waited while Ben pulled the bedroom door almost closed.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cDon\u2019t worry about it, Pa, Joe and I\u2019ll do them\u2026we aren\u2019t that tired, are we little buddy?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cNo\u2026don\u2019t fret, Pa, we can handle them, you just keep a sharp eye on Hoss\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe turned toward the stairs, muttering under his breath.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWhat do you know\u2026married\u2026boy, Adam,\u201d he said, looking over his shoulder and grinning, \u201cthat must have been some dream big brother\u2019s been having\u2026married\u2026hey, you know any girls around here by that name\u2026Ellen?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cNope, nary a one\u2026\u201d Adam said as he headed for the front door.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cMe neither\u2026wonder if she\u2019s pretty?\u201d snickered Joe. \u201cPoor Hoss\u2026this here Ellen is what you might call\u2026a dream girl\u2026hahaha,\u201d giggled Joe, closing the front door behind him.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cHoss\u2026stop, lay back down, son,\u201d Ben ordered while gently forcing the big man back against the pillows.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI can\u2019t, Pa\u2026I gotta get up\u2026Ellen\u2026where is she\u2026what happened? Did I faint from pure joy or what?\u201d Hoss fussed.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben cast a worried glance at his eldest son and then looked into Hoss\u2019 face, trying to read the puzzled expression and the slight fear that shown in the young man\u2019s eyes. It was obvious that the boy was confused\u2026there was no Ellen\u2026whateverhernamemightbe!<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cSon\u2026Hoss\u2026you\u2019ve been sick\u2026you didn\u2019t faint\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cAw Pa, that simply ain\u2019t so\u2026I was gettin\u2019 married\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cMarried! I knew it,\u201d Joe squealed. \u201cWho\u2019s the lucky girl?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cJoseph, that\u2019s enough\u2026there isn\u2019t a girl\u2026there wasn\u2019t a wedding\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYes there was!\u201d contradicted Hoss as he shoved back the blankets and crawled from his bed. \u201cAnd I\u2019ll prove it to you\u2026to all of you!\u201d he said as he grabbed for his trousers.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cHoss\u2026stop this non-sense\u2026get back in that bed\u2026RIGHT NOW!\u201d stormed Ben, grabbing Hoss by the arm and trying to force him to submit.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Hoss wrenched his arm free from his father\u2019s grasp and finished putting on his pants.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cNO!\u201d he refused, taking a deep breath to calm himself. \u201cI\u2019m sorry, Pa\u2026I don\u2019t know what\u2019s goin\u2019 on around here, but I aim to find out.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Hoss jerked opened the shift-robe door and began flinging clothes into the floor. The others stood speechless.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWhere in the blazes is it?\u201d Hoss grumbled.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWhere\u2019s what, son?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cDadburnit\u2026what\u2019cha do with it?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cHoss\u2026what are you talking about?\u201d Ben asked in a worried voice.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cMy suit\u2026my brand new wedding suit\u2026I had it special made!\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWhat? Hoss, you\u2019ve been sick, really sick\u2026you must have been imagining all this\u2026\u201d Adam tried to explain.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cNO!! I WASN\u2019T THAT SICK AND IT WASN\u2019T A DREAM\u2026IT WAS REAL! NOW GET OUT OF MY WAY!\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cHoss\u2026stop! Where are you going?\u201d Ben demanded.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI have to find Ellen\u2026and\u2026explain\u2026if\u2019n I can\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Hoss stormed from the room, leaving his family to gaze in shock at his sudden departure.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cHey\u2026wait for me!\u201d shouted Joe to Hoss.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe paused and turned back to his father. \u201cDon\u2019t you think one of us should go with him?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI think we should all go! Come on!\u201d Ben ordered, stepping around Joe and making for the staircase.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

As sick as he had been, it amazed Ben that Hoss could ride as long and hard as he did, obviously making his way to town. He had no clue what Hoss was going into town to try to prove, and it worried him that his son, so recently ill, had imagined himself in love and getting married! Ben swore to take the time if possible, to have a word with Paul Martin, the attending physician, for surely Hoss needed help\u2026some kind of help.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cHoss, why are we stopping at the boarding house, son?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Hoss quickly dismounted, paused a moment to steady himself, for his head was beginning to feel light and though he\u2019d never tell his father, he felt drained and tired like he\u2019d worked hard all day.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Taking a deep breath, Hoss looked over his shoulder at the three men who waited on horseback.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019m gonna see Ellen\u2026she\u2019ll tell me what\u2019s goin\u2019 on, since none of you will!\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe chanced a quick glance at his older brother. Even he was growing concerned about Hoss\u2026they all were, reckoned the youngest Cartwright.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

They watched as Hoss walked up to the door and knocked. It was several long moments before Mrs. Whaley, the owner, came to the door. When she saw the Cartwrights, she smiled broadly, wiping her hands on her already stained long white apron.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWell, my goodness, what a pleasant surprise!\u201d she greeted the men.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cHowdy, Ma\u2019am\u2026\u201dHoss stammered, removing his hat and twisting it around in his hands.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cHowdy Hoss, what can I do for you today? You need a room?\u201d she laughed softly in a teasing manner.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cNo Ma\u2019am, I came to see Miss Ellen\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

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

 <\/p>\n

\u201cMiss Ellen\u2026Ellen LaPlante\u2026you know, the lady that I asked to marry me.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWhat? Why Hoss, how sweet, I didn\u2019t know you were getting married. When\u2019s this special event going to take place\u2026and I hope I get an invitation,\u201d Mrs. Whaley said with a twinkle in her eye.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cEre\u2026yes Ma\u2019am\u2026I\u2019ll see that you do\u2026but\u2026Ma\u2019am\u2026is Miss Ellen here?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Mrs. Whaley cast a worried glance in Ben\u2019s direction. Ben\u2019s brows moved ever so slowly, but the elderly woman noticed the boy\u2019s father\u2019s reaction.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cHoss\u2026there isn\u2019t a Miss Ellen here\u2026and there hasn\u2019t been, why, I\u2019ve never heard the name LaPlante mentioned\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cBut she was stayin\u2019 here\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cNot here, Hoss. I\u2019m sorry\u2026could you have been mistaken?\u201d Mrs. Whaley suggested.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

She could see how upset the big man seemed to be, rubbing his head and then his temples as if he were in some kind of stress. The woman looked up again at the boy\u2019s family.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cMr. Cartwright\u2026I\u2019m sorry,\u201d she muttered.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cIt\u2019s alright,\u201d murmured Hoss, placing his hat on his head.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

He refused to look up at the others, sure that his family must be thinking he had lost his mind completely.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Hoss mounted up and turned his horse around, heading back into town.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cThank you, Mrs. Whaley,\u201d Ben called as he and Adam and Joe tipped their hats and followed after Hoss.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cHoss,\u201d Ben said softly when they had stopped and Hoss began to dismount.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019ll ask the Reverend, I know he<\/em> won\u2019t lie\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Hoss wrapped Chubb\u2019s reins around the hitching post and walked, as a man to the gallows, to the front door of the tiny, neatly kept little house that served as the parsonage.<\/p>\n

This time the knock on the door was quickly answered; Hoss removed his hat again and greeted the pastor\u2019s wife.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cAfternoon, Ma\u2019am, is the parson around?\u201d Hoss asked.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cGood afternoon, gentlemen,\u201d Mrs. Breckenworth greeted the foursome. \u201cMy husband is over at the church\u2026he\u2019s working on the sermon for Sunday. You\u2019re welcomed to walk over if you need to speak with him,\u201d she offered.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cThank you kindly, I\u2019ll do just that.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Hoss cast a wary glance upward, noting that his father and brothers were dismounting and following along behind him. He felt his heart beating rapidly and hard in his chest. His head hurt, his stomach was in knots and truth be told, he felt as if he wanted to vomit and then cry or vice-versa\u2026regardless, he felt terribly ill just the same. He had never, in his entire life, felt as miserable and downtrodden as he did right at that moment.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

The pastor of the Virginia City Church was standing behind the pulpit, practicing his sermon, just as his wife said he would be. When the four men entered, the reverend stopped preaching, one arm held high over his head as if he were ready to pronounce hell and damnation onto a sinful congregation.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Hoss stood slightly in front of his family, keenly aware of their presence behind him and wishing desperately that they\u2019d just go back home and let him find Ellen and the answers to his delirium by himself. But he knew that would never be, his father was persistent when it came to things concerning the well being of one of his sons. And this was most certainly, one of those times. Perhaps he was losing his mind\u2026NO\u2026his heart screamed, it had happened, it had been real. Hoss touched his finger to his lips still able to feel the fire that had been started when he and Ellen had kissed. His body trembled slightly, thinking of her touch, how soft and gentle it had been, how fervently she had responded to his own tender caresses.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWhew.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben heard the sound and moved closer, placing a reassuring hand on his son\u2019s shoulder. He was surprised when Hoss moved away from his touch, causing his father to sigh deeply.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cAfternoon, Reverend,\u201d Hoss said at last. \u201cSorry to be abotherin\u2019 ya, but I was wonderin\u2019 if\u2019n you could set my family and me straight about somethin\u2019?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWhy of course, if I can, Hoss. What seems to be the problem?\u201d the man of the cloth inquired as he joined his guests at the front of the church.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWell, you see\u2026I mean\u2026ere\u2026hmm\u2026\u201d Hoss couldn\u2019t find the words he wanted to use to put an end to this mystery and his misery. He cast worried eyes at his father.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

The look Hoss gave filled his father\u2019s heart with great sadness, the look would have ripped apart any caring man\u2019s emotions, as they were doing to him now.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cPerhaps I can explain. You see,\u201d began Ben, \u201cmy son here\u2026Hoss\u2026has been ill and he thinks\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI don\u2019t \u2018think\u2019, Pa\u2026I \u2018know\u2019\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cAlright, Hoss, just calm down and let me finish. You see Reverend Breckenworth\u2026I mean\u2026did you or did you not perform a marriage ceremony for Hoss and\u2026some lady by the name of Ellen LaPlante?\u201d Ben blurted out.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

The man\u2019s eyes widened as he scanned the faces of each man, reading into the different expressions, the same thing, they were all worried about something, or someone. He looked at Hoss and instantly decided that Ben and his other two sons were concerned for Hoss\u2026but why?<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cMarried? Hoss\u2026you\u2019re getting married\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cNO\u2026no sir, I mean\u2026I ain\u2019t gettin\u2019<\/em> married\u2026I got<\/em> married\u2026and you\u2019re the man who dun married me and Miss Ellen\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

The air rushed from the reverend\u2019s lungs in a loud gush.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cHoss\u2026I\u2019m sorry boy\u2026but\u2026I didn\u2019t\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYES YOU DID\u2026DON\u2019T YOU LIE TO ME, TOO!\u201d stormed Hoss, grabbing the man by the front of the shirt and practically hauling the startled parson to his toes.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cHOSS!\u201d shouted Ben in shock at his son\u2019s actions. He groped uselessly at the boy\u2019s fingers.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Quickly, Adam and Joe stepped forward and wrenched their brother\u2019s hands from Breckenworth\u2019s shirt.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cLet go, Hoss,\u201d Adam said in a calm voice. His eyes never left his brother\u2019s face as he tugged at Hoss\u2019 hands. \u201cLet him go, Hoss. Come on now\u2026easy\u2026that\u2019s it.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

At last the parson was free. Instantly he backed up, straightening his clothes. Ben stepped forward, glaring at Hoss with an angry expression on his face.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cTake him outside and wait for me,\u201d he ordered Joe and Adam.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

When the trio had gone, Ben turned to the Reverend.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI apologize for my son\u2019s actions, Reverend. I\u2019m afraid he hasn\u2019t been himself, you see\u2026he\u2019s been gravely ill for several days and he has this ridiculous notion that he got married\u2026and\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cIt\u2019s alright, Ben,\u201d smiled Breckenworth. \u201cDon\u2019t worry about me, I know that when a person is sick, his mind can conjure up a variety of things to trick the heart\u2026many of which seem so life like that they appear to be real. No doubt this is what has happened to Hoss\u2026please, don\u2019t be too hard on the boy.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben felt humbled by the man\u2019s forgiving attitude. He lowered his head, nodding; almost in a whisper he thanked the man for his kindness.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI hope the boy finds an answer to his problem, Ben\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cThank you, so do I.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

By the time that Ben made it back to the horses, his three sons were already mounted up, ready to ride. He quickly joined them, purposely moving close to Hoss.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cAre you ready to go home now, son?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

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

 <\/p>\n

\u201cHoss\u2026please.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cNo, Pa\u2026I\u2019ll prove to you I ain\u2019t imagining all this. I can\u2019t explain any of this, but I can prove I ain\u2019t crazy, come on.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Giving his father no time to respond, Hoss kicked Chubb into a run, heading back toward the Ponderosa. He\u2019d prove to them, he pondered as he rode along, \u2018I\u2019ll prove to myself; I\u2019ll show them the house\u2026by golly, that\u2019s it! The house, it can\u2019t lie\u2026it\u2019ll be right there, right where I built it. I\u2019ll show them and then they will believe me and maybe they will even help me find my Ellen. Oh Ellen\u2026Ellen, my love!\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Hoss slid down from his horse. It was evident that he wore a look of sheer disappointment on his face, his father reasoned. Or was it fear he saw in his son\u2019s eyes? Ben dismounted, motioning for Adam and Joe to stay where they were while he followed slowly behind his distraught son.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Hoss walked aimlessly about as if he were searching for something long lost. He felt his stomach tighten and form hard knots that caused him to want to be sick. How could it not be, he questioned himself. His mind was racing, frantically trying to piece together the parts of the puzzle. Sure his father had not been right\u2026it couldn\u2019t have been a dream\u2026a hallucination\u2026it had been real, if felt real\u2026it was real!<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWhat\u2019s he looking for?\u201d Joe whispered to Adam as they watched Hoss, practically staggering around in the lightly wooded area.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam shook his head. \u201cI have no clue, Joe\u2026but he seems to have lost something.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

When Hoss finally stopped, his back was to his family. Ben moved cautiously forward until he stood only inches from his son\u2019s broad back. The soft whimpering sounds coming from his son broke his heart. It was rare that Hoss became so emotional that the big man cried, but crying was what the gentle giant was doing now.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cHoss?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Hoss turned around to face his father. Ben instantly noted the tears that had welled in the depths of the blue eyes. Never had Ben seen his son so despondent, so\u2026broken as he was at that moment.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cPa\u2026\u201d Hoss muttered in a low, almost whiny voice. \u201cIt can\u2019t be\u2026the house\u2026it was here!\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

By this time, Joe and Adam had joined their father at their brother\u2019s side.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cSon\u2026there\u2019s no house ever been built here\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cBut there was\u2026I built it with my own hands, these hands,\u201d Hoss cried as he held out his hands for the others to see.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cAnd you\u2026and Little Joe there and Adam, you all helped me!\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cHoss\u2026look around you\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI SEE IT\u2026I SEE NO HOUSE, BUT I\u2019M TELLING YOU\u2026IT WAS HERE\u2026RIGHT HERE!\u201d Hoss shouted hysterically.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Hoss sank to his knees, covering his face with his trembling hands.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019m not crazy, Pa\u2026I got married\u2026I married Ellen\u2026and I built her a house, right here\u2026\u201d he sobbed.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben glanced up at Adam and Joe and then knelt down, placing his hands on Hoss\u2019 shoulders.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cHoss, listen to me son\u2026it was a dream\u2026a very life like dream and\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Hoss pushed Ben\u2019s hands away and stood to his feet, anger showing on his face.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYa don\u2019t believe me\u2026do you\u2026? None of ya believe me\u2026you all think I\u2019m nuts\u2026well, I\u2019m tellin\u2019 ya\u2026it happened\u2026ya can\u2019t say\u2026ya can\u2019t\u2026ya\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

The sobbing became uncontrollable as Hoss turned and walked away, shaking his head from side to side in defeat.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cOH GOD, WHY!\u201d he bellowed, sending the roosting birds into an untimely flight.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben rushed forward as the giant, broken man sank again to his knees.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWhy, Pa? Why?\u201d he sobbed as he fell into his father\u2019s arms. \u201cI loved her\u2026I loved her with all my heart and soul\u2026it wasn\u2019t a dream\u2026it couldn\u2019t have been\u2026I held her in my arms\u2026I kissed her\u2026I\u2026I\u2026married her!\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben was fighting back his own tears, trying to remain calm and still trying to convince Hoss that sometimes the mind plays cruel tricks on the heart\u2026and this was one of those times.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cHoss,\u201d Ben said.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cGo away, Pa\u2026all of you\u2026just go home and leave me alone\u2026please,\u201d muttered Hoss, turning away from his father, to ashamed to face his family, for the truth had begun to seep in\u2026<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cHow long has he been like this, Ben?\u201d Paul wanted to know.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

They had been sitting together on the side porch, sipping coffee and discussing the various moods that Hoss had been experiencing over the last several weeks. Ben had talked several times to his old friend, the town\u2019s physician, in hopes that together they could come up with a plan to help his son break through the dark gloom that seemed to have been hanging over his head since the boy accepted the fact that his mind had played a vicious trick on his heart. As of now\u2026nothing had come to mind that had helped to relieve his son\u2019s misery. Hoss\u2019 gloom had begun to take his toll on the entire family\u2026it seemed that nowadays, there wasn\u2019t a happy face among the four.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cToo long, Paul, too long,\u201d answered Ben as he watched Hoss working silently with his two brothers.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe and Adam were talking amongst themselves; they had given up trying to lure their middle brother into the conversation, Hoss had repeatedly shown no interest. Trying not to allow his aloofness to affect their own good moods, the pair had moved on to the barn where chores awaited tending to.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWhy don\u2019t we see if we can talk him into going to town with us\u2026might be good for him, it\u2019s been better than a month since he\u2019s gone,\u201d Adam suggested to Joe.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYeah\u2026you wanna ask him? Last time I tried to talk him into doing something, he got mad and took a swing at me,\u201d Joe said with a touch of bitterness.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

He paused for a moment and walked to the door, staring out at his brother who was now working on a wagon wheel that needed fixing. The youngest Cartwright\u2019s own expression showed his sorrow for his older brother.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cJoe,\u201d Adam said softly as he joined Joe at the door. He glanced at his youngest brother and placed his hand on the boy\u2019s shoulder. \u201cHoss didn\u2019t mean anything towards you when he took a swing at you, he was and still is, hurting\u2026it\u2019s going to take time\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI know that,\u201d Joe said sorrowfully as he turned away. \u201cI just hate to see him like that, that\u2019s all.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cSo do I; that\u2019s why I think he needs to get away from here for a little while\u2026come on, let\u2019s offer to buy him supper and a couple of beers,\u201d Adam said with a nod toward the opened door.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Little Joe smiled in response. \u201cYou gonna do the asking?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI suppose,\u201d Adam laughed lightly.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cThen you\u2019d best be ready to duck,\u201d chuckled Little Joe.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Paul Martin was just leaving in his buggy when Adam and Joe emerged from the barn. Hoss had straightened up to wave farewell at the doctor but turned when Adam and Joe approached. He said nothing, just looked at them and then went back to work. Joe gave Adam a nervous look, pointing with his chin at Hoss, indicating to his brother to speak up.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam cleared his throat.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cAin\u2019t you two got nothin\u2019 better\u2019n to do but stand around all day?\u201d Hoss said without looking up.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cSure we do\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cThen why ain\u2019t ya doin\u2019 it?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWe plan on it\u2026\u201d stammered Joe.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Hoss glanced up.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cBut we wanna ask you something first,\u201d Joe stated meekly.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Hoss paused briefly and glanced up again.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cOh yeah\u2026what\u2019s that?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWell\u2026Joe and I were planning on going into town this afternoon\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cAnd we thought you might like to come with us,\u201d Joe interrupted, earning himself a stern look from Adam.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben was standing behind the trio, observing the proceedings.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Hoss rose up, stretching to his full height, eyeing his brothers.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cSomethin\u2019 special goin\u2019 on in town?\u201d Hoss asked.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cNo\u2026we just felt like going in\u2026you know\u2026see what is <\/em>going on\u2026and, well, we thought we might could bribe you with a free supper\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYeah, with Hop Sing away\u2026we\u2019re sorta getting tired of Pa\u2019s cooking\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cOh, you are, are you?\u201d Ben said, announcing his presence and causing Joe to spin around, a look of slight horror on his face.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe gulped, causing his brothers to snicker.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cOh\u2026Hi ya, Pa.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben couldn\u2019t help but laugh. \u201cOh, hi yourself! I\u2019ll tell you what, boys, I\u2019m getting tired of my own cooking too\u2026how\u2019s about the three of you joining me<\/em> for supper at the International House? My treat!\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYummy!\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Three sets of expectant eyes of various hues, turned to stare at Hoss. It was the first time in weeks that the young man had shown any excitement of any sort and the others were somewhat amazed to see the smile that spread across the broad face.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cDoes that mean you\u2019ll go with us?\u201d Joe dared to question.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYep\u2026\u201d chuckled Hoss, \u201cI\u2019m starvin\u2019 plum to death, and I\u2019m so hungry I could eat a bear\u2026and since Pa\u2019s buyin\u2019, I ain\u2019t foolish enough to refuse.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Hoss began wiping his dirty hands on the rag he held. Ben\u2019s smile broadened as he slipped his arm about Hoss\u2019 shoulder and walked with his son toward the house.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cGood, lets get cleaned up and get going.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Hoss stopped in his tracks, causing the others to do the same.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI gotta say somethin\u2019 first, Pa\u2026if\u2019n ya don\u2019t mind.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cAlright, son, go ahead.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Hoss pinched his lips tightly and glanced from one face to the other.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI know I ain\u2019t been myself lately\u2026and I know I ain\u2019t been much fun to be around. So\u2026I want to say\u2026I\u2019m sorry\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cForget it, Hoss,\u201d Adam was quick to say.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI can\u2019t forget it, Adam. No matter what any of you think\u2026and I know this may sound silly to you\u2026but I reckon I gotta say it.\u201d Hoss gulped. \u201cWhatever happened to me\u2026and I can\u2019t explain it, I know what I felt in here, in my heart,\u201d he said, tapping his chest. \u201cI fell in love\u2026with a beautiful woman\u2026dream or no dream\u2026and she loved me. I\u2019ll never forget her face, her touch or her kisses\u2026never.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Hoss took a deep breath, sighing heavily. \u201cBut that\u2019s all behind me now\u2026\u201d He began to chuckle softly. \u201cLets go eat, I\u2019m hungry!\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

His statement brought more laughter\u2026more than what had been in weeks, and to those who knew and loved the gentle giant, it was music to their ears.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

The Cartwrights had been in town for more than a couple of hours and had just finished their meal. Stepping out into the fading sunlight, Hoss looked up and down the street.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cHow about a beer?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYou buying?\u201d challenged Joe.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cNo\u2026I thought you might be.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cNot me!\u201d proclaimed Joe, shaking his head.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cAdam?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cNope.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

All the while they walked slowly toward the saloon.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

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

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWell, I suppose if we\u2019re to get any beer, I\u2019ll have to be buying!\u201d Ben said with a touch of mockery that caused his sons to laugh.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cHey look, the stage\u2019s coming in,\u201d Joe announced.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben removed his watch and checked the time and then slipped it back into his vest pocket.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cHmm\u2026running a bit late this evening,\u201d he said as he followed Adam and Joe into the saloon.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

A sudden urge to see who disembarked from the stage, caused Hoss, who was behind his father, to stop suddenly at the barroom door and watch as the door of the coach swung opened.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Eyes the color of the sky, widened in awe. His chin lowered, leaving Hoss\u2019 mouth hanging open. It was as if he were in a trance as he walked slowly across the street toward the stage depot, as if being lured by some unknown force. The expression he wore was blank, unreadable.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

His father and brothers, realizing that one of them was missing, stepped back outside just in time to see Hoss cross the street and approach a lovely young woman who had just arrived on the evening stage. Curious as to who she might be and why Hoss would be so bold as to approach the newcomer, they marched over to the depot, noting the faraway look in Hoss\u2019 eyes and the expression of disbelief that appeared suddenly on his handsome face.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

They had just come to a standstill, arriving in time to hear the young woman introduce herself to Hoss. Hoss had removed his hat, twisting it around in hands that were visibly trembling, all the while smiling at the vision of sheer loveliness that stood before him.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

The lady extended her hand outward to Hoss in greeting. Only briefly did he pay attention to the long slender fingers with the perfectly shaped and manicured nails before coupling his hand with hers.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

He was amazed at the sensation of familiarity and the sudden rush of unquenched passion that filled his senses. The stranger flashed him a brilliant smile.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben, Adam and Joe were entranced as they heard the woman proclaim in a delicately feminine voice to Hoss.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cHello\u2026my name is Ellen\u2026Ellen Rochelle LaPlante\u2026and you are?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

THE END<\/strong><\/p>\n

February 2005<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Dedicated to Ellen AKA danblockerfan, who so obviously loves Hoss as much as I love Little Joe. Ellen, this one\u2019s for you!<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

<\/div>\n

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

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

Summary:\u00a0 Happy with his new love, his new home and expecting great things from his new life, Hoss isn’t prepared for the sudden twist that turns his world upside down and inside out.<\/p>\n

Rated:\u00a0 G (9,300 words)<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":9052,"featured_media":11293,"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":[7,23],"tags":[17],"class_list":["post-12144","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-a-u","category-drama","tag-hoss","wpcat-7-id","wpcat-23-id"],"a3_pvc":{"activated":true,"total_views":998,"today_views":0},"jetpack_featured_media_url":"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/06\/Hoss-smile.jpg?fit=285%2C326&ssl=1","jetpack_likes_enabled":true,"jetpack-related-posts":[{"id":4663,"url":"https:\/\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/?p=4663","url_meta":{"origin":12144,"position":0},"title":"The Smoke in the Sky (by Rona)","author":"Rona","date":"October 9, 2002","format":false,"excerpt":"Summary:\u00a0 A fire leads to devastating consequences.\u00a0 Rated:\u00a0 T \u00a0(10,135 words)","rel":"","context":"In "Ben \/ Joe"","block_context":{"text":"Ben \/ Joe","link":"https:\/\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/?cat=1015"},"img":{"alt_text":"","src":"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/wp-content\/uploads\/2014\/06\/Pine-Trees-Mist-01a.jpg?fit=575%2C970&ssl=1&resize=350%2C200","width":350,"height":200,"srcset":"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/wp-content\/uploads\/2014\/06\/Pine-Trees-Mist-01a.jpg?fit=575%2C970&ssl=1&resize=350%2C200 1x, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/wp-content\/uploads\/2014\/06\/Pine-Trees-Mist-01a.jpg?fit=575%2C970&ssl=1&resize=525%2C300 1.5x"},"classes":[]},{"id":36485,"url":"https:\/\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/?p=36485","url_meta":{"origin":12144,"position":1},"title":"A Rose for Mama (by AC1830)","author":"AC1830","date":"April 30, 2021","format":false,"excerpt":"Summary: Adam and Hoss have a surprise for Marie Rating - K, Word Count - 748","rel":"","context":"In "Adam \/ Hoss"","block_context":{"text":"Adam \/ Hoss","link":"https:\/\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/?cat=1090"},"img":{"alt_text":"","src":"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/05\/A-Rose-for-Mama.png?fit=419%2C314&ssl=1&resize=350%2C200","width":350,"height":200},"classes":[]},{"id":7595,"url":"https:\/\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/?p=7595","url_meta":{"origin":12144,"position":2},"title":"She Left (by DJK)","author":"DJK","date":"May 9, 2014","format":false,"excerpt":"Summary:\u00a0Adam\u2019s love is leaving him. 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