{"id":12154,"date":"2003-09-01T17:52:50","date_gmt":"2003-09-01T21:52:50","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/?p=12154"},"modified":"2025-02-27T12:07:44","modified_gmt":"2025-02-27T17:07:44","slug":"gossamer-dreams-by-debbieb","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/?p=12154","title":{"rendered":"Gossamer Dreams (by DebbieB)"},"content":{"rendered":"

Summary:\u00a0\u00a0 <\/strong>‘And love is sheer magic for it’s woven of Gossamer dreams, enchantingly real, that people in love are privileged to feel.’<\/em>\u00a0 Found unconscious and near death, a young destitute woman and her two children take Joe Cartwright home with them in hopes of saving his life.\u00a0 Love blossoms, but Joe knows something about the woman’s husband…and his conscience forces him to share it with her.<\/p>\n

Rated:<\/strong>\u00a0 PG (19,150 words)<\/p>\n

Gossamer Dreams Series<\/strong>:<\/p>\n

Gossamer Dreams<\/a>
\nFrom Dreams to Reality<\/a><\/p>\n

Gossamer Dreams<\/strong><\/p>\n

The blood oozed slowly from the gapping hole in his right shoulder as Joe slumped forward in the saddle. He could feel his strength dwindling away and knew that if he didn\u2019t find help soon, he would surely die. He pulled back on the reins, bringing Cochise to a standstill. Carefully, Joe opened his blood stained jacket and shirt that covered the wound and glanced down at his injury. As he pried away the makeshift bandage that he had stuffed into the hole, he winced as the pain shot through his fevered body.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cAh\u2026\u201d moaned Joe softly as he struggled to replace the cloth with another that he pulled from his saddlebags. The blood caked bandage dropped to the ground unnoticed at Cochise\u2019s hooves. Joe\u2019s lips were pressed tightly together and had turned white; his forehead was coated in a thin sheen of perspiration and his hand trembled as he placed the clean rag against the opened wound and pressed tightly in hopes of squelching the continued seeping of blood.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cAH! GOD!\u201d he screamed aloud while adding pressure to the place where his life\u2019s blood dripped slowly down his chest.\u00a0\u00a0 His head felt light and for a moment Joe thought he might faint. He took several deep breaths and trying to control his breathing, let them out slowly.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

When the wooziness passed, he shivered slightly and pulled first his shirt and then his jacket back over the bandage and gently nudged his mount onward. For another mile or two, Cochise trotted along with Joe swaying from side to side in the saddle, gripping tightly with only one hand, to the saddle horn. He had earlier lost his hold on the reins that were now dangling down on either side as Cochise ambled along at his own pace.<\/p>\n

The pinto stopped suddenly as his rider\u2019s body weight shifted to one side and then slipped quickly to the ground. The startled horse whinnied and stepped aside to avoid stepping on his fallen rider. Joe hit the ground with a thud, groaning pitifully as his body coiled into a tight knot from the pain that generated to all parts of his body. With one hand, he tried to push himself up, but the nauseous feeling had returned. His head began to spin and weak from loss of blood, Joe cried out one last time before being claimed by the darkened world of obscurity that had shadowed him since the day before, when he had been shot.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

The woman pulled her team of horses to a stop and hurried to climb down from the wagon. She swung her dress tail aside and placed a foot onto the wagon wheel.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYou children stay in the wagon,\u201d she ordered as she steadied herself enough to climb down.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Once she had her feet on the ground, the young woman moved gracefully, toward the pinto that eyed her nervously. She slowed her step as she neared the strange horse, speaking in a soft voice as her hand grasped the animal\u2019s reins.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cEasy boy,\u201d the woman murmured lowly so as not to spook the pinto.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

She rubbed the end of Cochise\u2019s velvety nose and moved along his side, searching for some clue as to what might have happened to its rider. Suddenly, her fingers touched something sticky and her reaction was to quickly draw back her hand. She touched her thumb to her other fingers and stared at the bright red color.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cBlood,\u201d she whispered to herself as she glanced around, looking in all directions for the man who must surely by now, considering the amount of blood found on his horse, was likely dead.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cCome on fella,\u201d she said to Joe\u2019s horse. Adrienne led the pinto back to her wagon and tied the reins onto the back.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYou two stay right where you are,\u201d she ordered her children.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWhat\u2019cha lookin\u2019 for, Ma?\u201d Petey, her eight year old son inquired.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cThe man this horse belongs to son, now stay right where you are, you too, Precious,\u201d she smiled at her six-year-old daughter. \u201cMama won\u2019t be long.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adrienne moved away from the wagon, searching all about as she wandered among the trees and bushes and behind the rocks along the trail where Joe had been riding. She glanced once up at the sky. The sun was at its highest and its rays beat down and warmed the earth. A flock of vultures circled overhead, just a short distance from where she stood gazing up at them.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cOh dear,\u201d she mumbled as she crept along the edge of the rocks. \u201cHe\u2019s probably already dead\u2026what ever will I do if he is?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Her dark eyes searched every inch of the rough terrain until they rested on the still form curled into a tight ball. Her insides quivered in apprehension as she bent down, carefully turning Joe onto his back. Adrienne gasped loudly at the site of the wound and the amount of blood that coated the front of the man\u2019s shirt. Quickly she pulled aside his jacket and then tore the shirt away as well. From the wound site, she used the tips of her fingers, curling her nose up in disgust as she removed the blood soaked rag that Joe had used as a bandage.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adrienne glanced at Joe\u2019s face and was appalled by the lack of color and quickly pressed her fingertip to the center of Joe\u2019s throat, searching frantically for a pulse. She closed her eyes, to concentrate and then smiled to herself when she had found what she had been silently praying for.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI don\u2019t know how cowboy, but you\u2019re still alive!\u201d she whispered as she brushed back the sweat-dampened hair from Joe\u2019s brow.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cPetey, bring me the canteen, and get the medical supplies from under the seat,\u201d Adrienne called to her son.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYes\u2019um,\u201d the boy shouted and then hurried to do his mother\u2019s bidding.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cIs he dead, mama?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cNo, but he\u2019s only hanging on by a thread, son.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adrienne did what she could to ease the flow of blood that had yet to stop seeping from the gapping wound and then led her team and wagon as close to Joe\u2019s lifeless body as she could.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

She was a petite woman, and as she stood over Joe, she wondered, how in the world would she be able to lift his body into the bed of her wagon. She shuddered to think of the pain that she would inflict upon the stranger when she tried to lift him.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

It took Adrienne more than half an hour just to get Joe into the back of her wagon. Petey, her son, held the horses steady while Adrienne worked at making her patient comfortable. Joe, though not a big man, was dead weight for the young woman and by the time that she was finally ready to start home, she was drained physically and emotionally. Joe had cried out several times while being moved, and each time that he did, Adrienne suffered along with him. It was not in her nature to cause suffering of any kind, to another being, whether man or beast, and with each whimper she found her own eyes thick with unshed tears.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Another hour and the trio finally arrived home with their patient. Joe\u2019s brow was covered in sweat, yet his fevered body shivered and when Adrienne pressed the back of her hand to his brow, she cringed at the heat that radiated into her hand.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cPetey, you and Sarah Beth go inside and get the bed ready, he\u2019ll have to stay in your room\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cBut Mama, where will I sleep?\u201d the boy asked, wide-eyed.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adrienne smiled, \u201cYou can have Sarah Beth\u2019s room, her bed is too small for the stranger. She can sleep in with me, now hurry son, I need to tend to his wound. The man\u2019s hurt real bad.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cOkay, Mama, come on Sarah, you can help me.\u201d Petey took his little sister\u2019s hand and went inside.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adrienne climbed back into the wagon bed after helping her daughter down so that she could go with her brother.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cThis is gonna hurt you Mister, but I gotta do it.\u201d She grasped Joe from behind and gently pushed him up into a sitting position. Instantly Joe let out a howl of pain and pushed back against the kind hands that were attempting to hold him.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cEasy Mister,\u201d Adrienne whispered as she forced Joe more up right. Joe continued to cry out as the young woman inched his body to the end of the wagon and then hopped down. His eyelids parted slightly and he tried to focus on the person that was speaking to him.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cCome on, try to stand up, you can lean on me,\u201d she grunted as Joe\u2019s feet touched the ground and his legs almost gave way beneath him.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cPa?\u201d he muttered weakly.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adrienne, her arm around Joe\u2019s mid-section and one hand clinging tightly to his left hand staggered slightly as she held Joe upright.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

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

 <\/p>\n

\u201cNo, I ain\u2019t ya Pa, now try to walk.\u201d Adrienne forced Joe into taking a couple of stumbling steps towards the house. His step faltered after two more and Adrienne changed positions with her hands and took a few more steps.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cHurts\u2026\u201d whined Joe.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI know, I know\u2026come on\u2026walk\u2026I can\u2019t do this by myself, darn it,\u201d swore Adrienne, who was beginning to wonder if the handsome stranger was worth all the effort it had taken her to get him this far.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cSorry\u2026don\u2019t mean\u2026you\u2026no trouble\u2026ma\u2019am,\u201d muttered Joe.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

It was Adrienne\u2019s turn to stop and stare at the man she carried. She hadn\u2019t expected him to have manners as well as good looks and it was for sure that she hadn\u2019t expected any remorse from him. She scolded herself for her thoughtlessness.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYou ain\u2019t no trouble, Mister\u2026we\u2019re almost there,\u201d she said when she had Joe standing beside the bed.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Carefully she eased him around and turned him until she was able to sit him on the side of the bed. When she let go, Joe flopped over, crying out once again as the pain consumed his body.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adrienne hurried to pull Joe\u2019s boots from his feet and turn his legs around until he was finally lying in the bed. As quickly as she could, she set a pan of water to boil on the stove eye and hurried out to the wagon for the medical supplies that she carried with her wherever she went. By the time that she returned, Joe had started to moan, trashing about on the bed.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

As soon as the water was ready, she poured some into a basin and bringing soap and towels with her to his bedside, she removed the jacket and stripped away the remainder of Joe\u2019s shirt and began by bathing his feverish body. Joe, in his delirious state of mind, fought against the hands that so tenderly cared for him. By the time that she had finished with his bath, Joe was deep into a restless sleep and no longer was a match for Adrienne\u2019s gentle hands.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Looking at the opened wound, Adrienne almost gagged. The flesh had been ripped and torn by the force of the bullet that had struck the man. With as much care as possible, Adrienne cleaned the open wound as best she could and then, much to her displeasure, applied large amounts of alcohol to the reddened areas. Joe screamed in agony as the alcohol cleansed his flesh.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019m sorry, I\u2019m so sorry,\u201d the young woman cried as she bathed Joe\u2019s face with a cool rag.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

When Joe settled down, Adrienne returned to her kitchen and put one knife into the fire that still blazed within her stove. There was no other way to do it, she would have to probe and dig for the bullet, for if not removed soon, all her efforts would be in vain. She turned to her children who had sat quietly at the table, eating their supper.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cChildren,\u201d she said with more assurance than she felt, \u201cI want you to go outside and play for a little while\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cBut Mama,\u201d began Petey, \u201cit\u2019s gonna be dark soon and ya know I don\u2019t like the dark, \u2018specially when I gotta go outside alone.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adrienne ran her slender fingers through her son\u2019s blond curls and smiled down at him.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cBut son, you won\u2019t be alone, Sarah Beth will be with you. I won\u2019t be long, Petey, but I have to take the bullet out of that man\u2019s shoulder, you understand?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYes ma\u2019am\u2026it\u2019s gonna hurt\u2019em and ya don\u2019t want me and Sarah to hear him crying\u2019, do ya?\u201d Petey\u2019s wide blue eyes watched his mother\u2019s face.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adrienne bit her lip. \u201cThat\u2019s right son, its going to hurt him something fierce.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Petey pushed back his chair and walked over to the bed to stare down at Joe. \u201cIs he gonna die, Mama?\u201d he asked in a quite voice.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

When he turned around, his mother could see the shine of unshed tears in his eyes. She hurried to her son\u2019s side and knelt down, placing one hand on the boy\u2019s shoulder. She smiled and cupped his chin with her other hand.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cLet\u2019s hope not, Petey. Why don\u2019t you whisper a little prayer for him when you go outside?\u201d she said in a motherly fashion.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cDon\u2019t know what good it\u2019ll do. God ain\u2019t answered my other prayer yet,\u201d Petey said crossly. He turned away from his mother and started to the door. \u201cCome on Sarah, hurry up.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cPetey,\u201d Adrienne stopped her son before he reached the door. \u201cWhat did you ask God for?\u201d she was curious to know, for whatever it had been, Petey was not happy with God\u2019s answer.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI asked God to bring my Papa home, and he ain\u2019t done it.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cOh, son\u2026your Papa will be home, soon,\u201d Adrienne rushed to assure her little boy.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cNo he ain\u2019t, he\u2019s dead\u2026just like that stranger\u2019s going to be dead. I ain\u2019t prayin\u2019 for him, why should I, I don\u2019t even know his name!\u201d growled Petey, looking over to where Joe lay. Joe had begun to moan.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adrienne\u2019s eyes filled with worry as she followed her son\u2019s gaze. \u201cPetey, I wish you would say a prayer. If not for the man, then for me\u2026so that I might be able to get the bullet out of his shoulder.\u201d The mother looked pleadingly at her young son. \u201cPlease?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Petey took a long deep breath and blew it out. \u201cOkay Mama, for you, but not for him,\u201d he pointed his finger in Joe\u2019s direction.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adrienne drew the boy to her and hugged him, kissing the top of his curly head. \u201cOut with you now\u2026I\u2019ll call for you when you can come back in\u2026you mind Sarah Beth now and don\u2019t let her play in the watering trough!\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

As Petey and his sister went through the door, Adrienne lovingly swatted the boy\u2019s backside. For just a moment, she watched as her children scurried across the yard to play. The insistent moaning from the far corner of the room drew her attention away from her children.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adrienne quickly grabbed the knife that she had sterilized on the stove, more bandages and filling her lungs to capacity, moved to Joe\u2019s bedside. Carefully she spread her medical supplies out on a clean cloth and then turned to Joe. He had stopped his thrashing about which was a big relief to Adrienne. Quickly she tore long thins strips of material and tied Joe\u2019s left wrist to the bedpost. She did the same with each ankle; the right arm, where the bullet had entered his shoulder, Adrienne left free. The wound and the amount of pain that Joe was experiencing earlier in that shoulder, indicated to the woman who was about to perform her first surgery, totally useless to the young man as it were. The light restraints would prevent the man from moving about on the bed at the wrong time. Later, after she finished and the man was resting better, she would remove the ties so that he could be more comfortable.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

From the nightstand where she had placed her needed items, Adrienne picked up the whiskey bottle, studied its contents for a moment, and then she placed the bottle to her lips and took a quick drink. She scrunched up her nose in distaste and as she poured a small amount over the knife. The swig helped to steady her trembling hands and give her a sense of strength for what she was about to attempt.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

The young woman glanced once at Joe\u2019s face and then went to work on the bullet wound. At first her hand trembled as she began cutting away the infected tissue that hampered her search. Fresh blood appeared immediately and she quickly dabbed it dry with the clean cloths. Constantly, Adrienne would look down at Joe\u2019s face, and each time she saw only slight facial expressions. She was relieved that Joe had sunk so far into the world of oblivion that he was feeling very little if any pain that her probing might be causing him.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

With a long sigh of relief, Adrienne at last located the bullet. Gently, she removed the knife and with tongs from her kitchen, eased them into the wound until her skilled hands touched the tiny shot from the bullet. As she began backing out of the bloody hole, Joe moaned loudly and tossed his head from side to side. A sense of urgency quickened her fingers and a minute later the round pellet dinged as it was dropped into the tin basin.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cAh\u2026ah\u2026\u201d Joe moaned softly.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adrienne hurried to clean the wound, watching how the young man twisted up his face in pain at her tender ministrations. Once the wound was cleaned as well as could be the self-proclaimed surgeon sewed up the opening in Joe\u2019s shoulder and then covered it with bandages. The hardest part was wrapping the lengths of cloth around the shoulder, and when all was finished, Adrienne wondered to herself how she had accomplished all that she had in a matter of such a short time.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

She gathered her tools and took them to the kitchen. As she stood at the window, she glanced out, checking to see her children playing happily with the new kittens. Adrienne went to the door and called them inside, smiling at each.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

A quick bath and a quicker snack and her children were rushed off to bed. It would be a long night, as she would stay by the stranger\u2019s bedside in case he awoke and needed something. The man\u2019s fever was still high and Adrienne would keep his brow bathed with cool water\u2026anything she thought, to keep her mind from wondering about her husband and his whereabouts.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

As Adrienne sat alone in the soft glow of the lamplight, her thoughts nonetheless ventured to her husband. Josh had been gone for over a month now, much longer than necessary. He had gone to Salt Lake City to purchase much needed supplies that would carry them through the long winter months. Yet, Josh had failed to return when he said he would. All types of images appeared in Adrienne\u2019s dreams, fears that she had refused to voice aloud pertaining to what might be delaying the man that she loved, from returning to her. Her mind conjured up reflections of his body lying at the bottom of some gully from his wagon having careened over the edge, or his face looming in front of her eyes, hairless from having been scalped by a band of local savages. The dreams lasted only seconds, but each portrayal sent fear racing into her young, lonely heart.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cNO!\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

The sudden outburst startled Adrienne from her pondering as she straightened herself in her chair.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cDon\u2019t shoot!\u201d Joe cried in his delirium.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

His face was coated with sweat and he\u2019d begun tossing about and pulling on his restraints. His right arm was carefully wrapped within the binding that covered his wounded shoulder and would provide no threat to his thrashing about.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adrienne soaked the cloth in cool water and sat on the very edge of the bed. As she wiped away the wetness, she spoke in a soft soothing tone, hoping to reach into the befuddled mind of her patient.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cTake it easy, Mister\u2026no one\u2019s going to hurt you\u2026you\u2019re safe here with me,\u201d she whispered.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

As she continued to care for Joe, she noticed for the first time, the handsome features that lay beneath the bruises that dotted his face. It was obvious that the man had been in a fight, and that he had just as obviously gotten the worst end of the argument. He was handsome, concluded Adrienne and his appearance only served to rouse questions as to who he was, where he came from and why had he been shot.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Rising slowly, Adrienne reached for Joe\u2019s jacket and fingered through the pockets, hoping to find something that would give her a clue to his identity. Certainly he had family, hadn\u2019t she heard him calling for his pa and what about a wife\u2026and maybe children? There was nothing in the pockets of his jacket. Adrienne went through his pants pockets as well and that search proved to be for naught.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

When she returned to Joe\u2019s bedside and sat down, she studied his face again. He looked like a man of means\u2026not the everyday type that wandered around seeking handouts from the local residents. He was clean shaven, his clothes, what there were left of them, had been store bought and were of good material. For sure his horse was as fine, as any she had ever seen, and his gear was of the most expensive assortment around. Even his holster was of the most premium leather made\u2026yet she wondered about the missing pistol. Had he lost it while ambling about, or had it been taken from him, by the man or men who had shot him?<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

A new thought struck her and she shuddered, was this handsome stranger wanted for some horrid crime? Had he murdered a man, robbed a bank, or stage\u2026had some unknowing female, such as herself, been a victim of his\u2026had she been stricken by his overpowering good looks and smooth talking? Adrienne shook her head slowly; she wouldn\u2019t allow such pessimism to warp her logical thinking. Any man who called out for his father could not be as bad as her imagination was allowing her to contemplate.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

For the rest of the night, Adrienne stayed by Joe\u2019s side. More than once, he awoke, studied her face through clouded and tear filled eyes and mumbled something about having been shot. Adrienne smiled kindly each time, for such was her nature. She whispered soft words of comfort that seemed to have a calming affect on him. His hot, sweat drenched body, Adrienne kept bathed and cooled in spite of the temper that struggled for control. She had removed all his clothing except for his long johns bottom. Those she allowed him to keep for she had no such notion of disrobing the man entirely unless necessity demanded.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

By daylight, her children were up and demanding their breakfast. Sleep had been long in coming for the nurse turned surgeon, and she had only been able to claim the last two or three hours before the rising of the sun. But she smiled in satisfaction when she peeled back the bandages that protected Joe\u2019s injury and saw where the pinkness of his flesh, that promised infection, had faded to a lighter color.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

She hurried to fix her children their breakfast, least the stranger wake and demand her attention. He had been asleep now for hours and was sure to rouse about soon and most likely he\u2019d be hungry, Adrienne concluded. As soon as the children were fed, she sent Petey to the chicken house to gather what eggs he could find. Those she would use later when she did her baking. As for the stranger, he would have to settle for some broth, for she doubted that his stomach could handle much more than that at the moment.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

An hour later, Adrienne had killed one of her chickens, plucked it clean of its feathers and had the bird in the stewing pot. The broth would last for a couple of days and would give the stranger much needed nourishment for his ailing body. For herself and her children, Adrienne would use what she could spare of the broth and make dumplings\u2026a filling meal and one of her children\u2019s favorites.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cPa\u2026Pa\u2026help me!\u201d cried Joe from his corner bedroom.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adrienne set her spoon off to the side of the stove and hurried in to check on her patient. Joe\u2019s brow had beaded once more with tiny droplets of perspiration. Quickly, Adrienne dampened a cloth and began wiping away the moisture.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe continued with his moaning. His restraints had been removed during the night and when Joe, in his confused state, felt the tender hands that cared for him, he reached out with his good hand and clasped Adrienne\u2019s within his own.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adrienne stilled her movements, unsure as to what the stranger might do. Joe\u2019s eyelids fluttered and then opened. Within the hazel depths, Adrienne could see the confusion and the pain that flickered.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cDidn\u2019t want\u2026to\u2026kill\u2026him,\u201d Joe murmured as he tried to focus his eyes on the face that loomed over him. \u201cNo\u2026choice\u2026\u201d he stammered.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cShh\u2026don\u2019t try to talk, save your strength,\u201d soothed Adrienne as she freed her hand from his and placed Joe\u2019s hand across his chest.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cHurts\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI know, and I\u2019m sorry\u2026but I have nothing for the pain, other than whiskey\u2026wouldn\u2019t want\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe slowly shook his head, \u201cno\u2026hungry\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cOh, now that I can give you. I\u2019ll be right back, I already have a good chicken broth simmering on the stove.\u201d Adrienne stood to her feet but stopped when Joe reached out and took her arm.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

As she gazed into his face, the pain that he suffered was written into every fine line of his features. Her heart broke for the stranger and she wished that she could do something to alleviate the suffering he was most certainly having to endure.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

She leaned down, smiling. \u201cWhat is it?\u201d She saw Joe swallow and was surprised at the sudden rush of tears that filled his eyes.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cThank\u2026you,\u201d he muttered in a voice that was laden with the agony that he was feeling.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adrienne felt her own throat constrict and she smiled, patted his hand and then slipped quietly into the kitchen. At the stove, she paused, drawing in a deep breath. His sudden expression of gratitude had caught her unprepared, for she had not expected the stranger to be such a gentleman. As Adrienne spooned the broth into a bowl, a sense of longing filled her senses. Her thoughts turned suddenly to her own husband and she could not help but pray that if Josh had met a fate such as this stranger, her prayer would be that he had found the same kindness as she gave to the man in the other room.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cJust one more bite,\u201d Adrienne requested of her patient.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe shook his head no and then closed his eyes. Minutes later he was asleep. Adrienne set the bowl aside and gently pulled the covers up around Joe\u2019s shoulders. His brow still showed signs of beading and Adrienne could tell by the flushed look that Joe wore, that he was still hot with fever.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

She wished there was a doctor close by, the stranger really did need one, but the nearest was better than fifty miles away. Any hopes of getting the man the medical help that he so desperately needed was totally out of the question. She couldn\u2019t run the gamble of moving him; the ride in the back of her wagon would most likely kill him, if the pain didn\u2019t do it before they reached the physician\u2019s office. And then there was always the chance that the doctor would be out on a call and might not return for days. No, she would just have to do what she could for the man; she was his only hope.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

By afternoon, Joe\u2019s temper had risen even higher and Adrienne feared that the heat of the midday sun, the warmth in her small cabin and the heat from Joe\u2019s fever would be more than her patient could endure. Constantly, she bathed Joe. She had even gone as far as removing his long johns so that she could bath his legs as well as his upper body. Adrienne had closed her eyes when she had pulled the last of Joe\u2019s under clothes from his lower body and had quickly moved the blanket to the proper place to hide her embarrassment.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

It wasn\u2019t as if she had never seen a naked man, after all she told herself, she was a married woman. And, having grown up in a household full of brothers, she was accustomed to having to care for the needs of an ailing man. But with this stranger, it was different, she wished not to embarrass him. She laughed softly to herself, she could almost convince herself of her own modesty.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cPlease\u2026\u201d groaned the stranger.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adrienne who had been out hoeing in what remained of her vegetable garden, and who had just come inside, hurried to set aside the few vegetables she had picked as she rushed to Joe\u2019s bedside. She was surprised to see that he had opened his eyes, and that the cloudiness had begun to leave. Adrienne smiled and placed her hand to his forehead.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYou\u2019ve cooled off a little,\u201d she explained.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWater\u2026please?\u201d begged Joe as he moved his body. The twisted expression on his face showed his pain.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cHere,\u201d Adrienne said as he helped Joe raise his head. He was still too weak to hold the glass, so Adrienne held it to his lips. When he had satisfied his thirst, she gently lowered his head back down on the pillows.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cThanks,\u201d he muttered, watching his nurse as she pulled her chair over to the bed.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adrienne smiled. \u201cHow do you feel?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cHurts\u2026badly,\u201d he answered honestly. \u201cHow\u2019d I\u2026get here?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI found you, out on the road. You\u2019d been shot\u2026and you had lost a lot of blood. I couldn\u2019t just leave you there to die\u2026so I brought you here,\u201d she explained.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cHere?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYes, I live here, with my children\u2026and my husband, when he\u2019s home.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYou\u2019re alone? Where\u2019s\u2026your husband?\u201d Joe winced and clutched his shoulder.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cJosh\u2026my husband, went to Salt Lake City for our winter supplies. Please,\u201d she said, taking Joe\u2019s hand and removing it from the wounded shoulder. \u201cLie still. I don\u2019t want that wound to reopen and start bleeding again.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cSorry,\u201d Joe forced a smile. \u201cWhat\u2019s your name?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cAdrienne\u2026and yours? I went through your pockets\u2026oh\u2026not to be noisy, but I was hoping to find something that would tell me who you were\u2026I mean who you are\u2026just in case,\u201d she stumbled over her words. His intense hazel eyes seemed to be mesmerizing and she found herself falling deeply into their depths.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe laughed softly, bringing her back to her senses. \u201cIt\u2019s alright\u2026no need to\u2026apologize. Joe\u2026Joe Cartwright\u2026that\u2019s my name.\u201d Again he tried to move to a more comfortable position and once more he cried out in pain.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cPlease, Mr. Cartwright, stop thrashing about like a fish out of water!\u201d she scolded gently.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

She leaned down and fluffed Joe\u2019s pillow, and then sat back in her chair. \u201cMen!\u201d she groaned. \u201cI haven\u2019t found one yet that made a good patient!\u201d she grumbled and then when she heard the sound of his infamous giggle, she smiled down at him.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cAnd you won\u2019t find one in me either\u2026\u201d he grinned.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019m sorry Mr. Cartwright but\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cJoe\u2026name\u2019s Joe\u2026and my friends\u2026call me Little Joe,\u201d he smiled.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cAlright, Little Joe, I apologize for my rudeness\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe held up his hand to silence her. \u201cNo need,\u201d he said.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

His eyelids suddenly became heavy as they folded over his eyes. He yawned and when he opened his eyes again, Adrienne had moved. Joe turned his head slightly and found the young woman bending down, speaking in a low voice. It was only when she moved that Joe was able to see the boy and girl to whom she had been speaking. Joe saw the girl look his way, and from his bed with the door partially opened, he could see the wee child smile at him. Joe tried to return the gesture, but he could no longer keep his eyes opened. Within minutes, he was sleeping.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adrienne spent the rest of the afternoon preparing supper for her children, and while Joe slept, she tended to her washing. By late afternoon, the house had filled with the aroma of fresh baked bread and apple pie. The chicken and dumplings were on the stove stewing and Joe\u2019s broth was beginning to bubble slowly.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cThat\u2019s the last of the dried apples,\u201d she told Petey as she removed the dessert from the oven and placed it on the window ledge to cool.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWhen\u2019s Papa comin\u2019 home, Mama?\u201d the little boy asked.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adrienne saw the sad expression on her son\u2019s face and wished that she could give him a definite answer, but even she had no idea. Josh was over a month late in returning as it was.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cMama?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cPetey, I don\u2019t know son\u2026but it should be soon,\u201d she tried to assure the boy.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWhat\u2019ll we do, if\u2019n he don\u2019t get home before it snows?\u201d he asked. \u201cI was down in the root cellar yesterday, and we\u2019re about out of potatoes and carrots. All we got bunches of are onions and dried peppers, and only one ham, Mama,\u201d Petey scrunched up his nose in disgust at the thoughts of the peppers and onions.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adrienne\u2019s eyes ventured to the open window and she stared off into the distance. There was nothing on the horizon but mountains and trees, no sign of her husband. She then turned to the stranger that was resting peacefully, another mouth to feed she thought and then scolded herself. It wasn\u2019t right to blame the man for being here, she thought, only herself for being so noble as not to leave him for the buzzards.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cMama?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cHe\u2019ll be here son, your father will be here, he\u2019s just been held up\u2026maybe he\u2019s waiting for a shipment to arrive at the mercantile.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cBut Mama, Pa said that\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cPetey hush!\u201d she scolded. \u201cI know what your pa said, but things happen sometimes to change our plans.\u201d When she glanced down at her son, she could see the tears that had swelled in his eyes and instantly she regretted being so short tempered towards the boy.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cCome here, Petey,\u201d she said as she gathered him into her arms. \u201cYour Pa will be home just as soon as he can\u2026you just wait and see,\u201d she smiled at him.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019m sorry Mama\u2026it\u2019s just that I miss him so much.\u201d The tears rolled over the edge of the boy\u2019s eyes and careened down his chubby little face.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI know you do sweetie, but, so do I\u2026we just have to keep praying\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI will, I promise\u2026guess I\u2019d better get the cow in\u2026\u201d Petey gave his mother a smile, relieving her fear somewhat.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

It was a long time after the children had gone to bed before Joe woke. His temperature was down slightly and when he opened his eyes, he could at least focus them better than earlier in the day.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWell, sleepy head\u2026I see you\u2019re awake,\u201d Adrienne smiled at Joe. \u201cDo you think you could eat something?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe nodded his head. \u201cI\u2019ll try,\u201d he said, his voice sounding weak.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adrienne hurried to get Joe some broth and decided to add a few dumplings as well. When she returned, Joe had wiggled himself upward on the bed and had propped against his pillows. His lips were white, as were the knuckles on his left hand, which he had folded up into a tight fist.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

He smiled sheepishly at his hostess. \u201cGuess I should have waited\u2026boy does that hurt.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cServes you right,\u201d she said, but her tone was light.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe\u2019s eyes sought the young woman\u2019s and he smiled. \u201cTouch\u00e9!\u201d he smirked and then smiled.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adrienne could not help herself, he looked much younger, more like a boy, when he screwed up his face and in spite of herself, she laughed. Joe\u2019s eyes brightened and he giggled, but only briefly.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cAre you going to sit there laughing and let me starve to death?\u201d he said, sobering.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adrienne\u2019s eyes widened in surprise. \u201cOh, of course not, I\u2019m sorry,\u201d she said.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

For several minutes, neither spoke as Adrienne spooned the broth and the dumplings into Joe\u2019s mouth. When he dribbled a speck onto his chin, she offered him the napkin. Joe\u2019s fingers touched her hand and for a brief moment, each sat still, staring at their hands. Adrienne jerked her hand back as if touched by fire and lowered her head. Joe watched the woman\u2019s face and for the first time, noticed how truly lovely the young mother was.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Her long brown hair was coiled at the back of her head and tiny, wild sprigs had gotten free of the pins and dangled about her face. The golden highlights glimmered in the soft glow and the sudden, odd expression that had come into play on her face when his hand had touched hers, caused him to tremble slightly, for he had been as much caught off guard by the sensation as the lovely woman had.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adrienne however, was finding it hard to breathe. She had not been prepared for the unexpected rush of emotions that surged through her when his hand had touched hers. She glanced up, afraid that he had seen her blush and had been able to read her thoughts.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe smiled, and handed the rose colored napkin back to her. \u201cThank you,\u201d he said in a thick voice. Adrienne had seen him swallow and had seen when Joe had tried to mask his own feelings. She was startled to find her self attracted to him\u2026she was married\u2026and she loved her husband deeply\u2026but\u2026but\u2026<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cMa\u2019am?\u201d Joe called a second time.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cOh\u2026I\u2019m sorry,\u201d she muttered.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe smiled as she stood up, \u201cAdrienne, do me a favor\u2026would you please stopping saying I\u2019m sorry?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adrienne, embarrassed, laughed softly, \u201cJoe, I don\u2019t mean to keep saying it\u2026really\u2026it\u2019s just a habit\u2026I\u2019m sor\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cAdrienne!\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cOh, goodness\u2026\u201d she turned and rushed from the room, his gentle giggles following her to her kitchen.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adrienne set the bowl in the dishwater and leaned heavily against the table. She was breathing hard and suddenly felt so foolish. \u2018I\u2019m acting like a silly school girl,\u2019 she thought. She glanced over her shoulder into the room where Joe lay. He had turned onto his left side and seeing the slow rise and fall of his breathing, she determined that he had quickly fallen to sleep. Probably exhausted, she concluded.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

When the dishes were wiped clean, Adrienne stepped out into the night. The sky was clear and the trillions of stars twinkled brightly over head. She felt a mellowing of her spirit as she gazed upward and witnessed God\u2019s handiwork. Without warning, her eyes filled with tears that ran slowly down her face.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cOh Josh\u2026please\u2026won\u2019t you hurry home? I miss you so,\u201d she whispered lowly into the night wind. \u201cI love you so much, my darling, and I do need you so.\u201d
\n\u201cWhy do we gotta have beans and potatoes again!\u201d stormed Petey. \u201cI\u2019m sick of beans and potatoes\u2026potatoes and beans!\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cPetey!\u201d snapped Adrienne, who glanced, toward the room where Joe was still confined to the bed. \u201cThat will be enough\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cBut Mama\u2026I want meat\u2026and you said that Sarah Beth needed meat too\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cShh\u2026I said stop it, Petey! I\u2019m doing the best I can with what I have!\u201d Adrienne was fighting back the tears that came into her deep dark eyes. She was almost out of everything\u2026her children were hungry\u2026and still Josh had not returned.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cIt\u2019s his fault!\u201d shouted Petey, as he pointed toward the door that hid Joe from the argument going on in the kitchen. \u201cIf\u2019n ya\u2019d left him out there, then we could have\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cPETEY!\u201d Adrienne could not believe what was happening, her little boy was sounding so uncaring toward another human being. \u201cGo to your room\u2026NOW!\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Petey, his eyes wide with tears, turned and ran into the other room. Seconds later Adrienne heard the slamming of the door. She pulled the chair out from the table and sat down, burying her face in her hands. The soft sounds of her crying tugged at the heart of the young man standing precariously against the frame of the door.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe, wrapped in his blanket, staggered slightly as he crept slowly toward the sobbing woman. \u201cMa\u2019am?\u201d he said softly, catching Adrienne by surprise.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

She spun her head around and seeing Joe clinging tightly to the back of her chair, she rose to her feet. Quickly, she rounded the chair and slipped her arms about Joe\u2019s body to steady him.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWhat in the world are you doing out of bed?\u201d she scolded. \u201cLet\u2019s get you back where you belong!\u201d Gently, Adrienne began ushering Joe back toward his room.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cNo\u2026wait\u2026the boy,\u201d began Joe.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cNever you mind the boy\u2026you need to be in bed!\u201d Adrienne said with a groan.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe was leaning heavily against Adrienne\u2019s soft alluring body. He glanced at her, surprised at himself that in his present condition, he found himself so attracted to her. He inhaled deeply, enjoying the scent of her hair. It smelt like spring rain, and it was soft when he allowed himself the freedom to touch it with his fingers. He heard her sudden intake of wind and smiled down at her when she looked into his eyes.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYou are so beautiful,\u201d Joe murmured softly.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

They had reached his bed and Adrienne helped Joe turn around so that he could sit down. She ignored his remark. She could feel the heat emitting from his body and knew that his fever was up again. Getting out of bed and stumbling around like he had, had done nothing to help his recovery, even if the distance from the bedroom to the kitchen had been but a few short steps.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cLay down, Little Joe,\u201d she said softly as she arranged the pillow under his head.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cSo lovely\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cHush\u2026\u201d she whispered, but then ceased moving as he raised his hand and entwined his fingers into her hair.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe tenderly fingered the lose strains of golden brown locks and Adrienne could see the desire in his eyes that he was unable to disguise. She took his hand in hers to remove it from her hair. Joe clung tightly to her smaller hand and drew it to his lips, where he held it. His eyes had fixed on her expression and he seemed to loose himself in her dark eyes.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adrienne\u2019s heart beat rose in tempo as Joe kissed her fingers. She knew she should pull back and scold him for his audacity, but the longing within her and the need to be loved, discouraged her logical thinking.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cMama?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adrienne was snapped to her senses by the sound of the wee voice calling out to her. Quickly she freed her hand from Joe\u2019s and then placed his under the blanket, covering him to his chin.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cMama\u2026I\u2019m hungry,\u201d Sarah Beth cried from the doorway.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adrienne glanced up at her daughter and then quickly back down at her patient. Joe had closed his eyes and appeared to be sleeping. The concerned mother hurried to gather her daughter into her arms and carried her from the room. Once in the kitchen, she placed the little girl in one of the chairs and fixed Sarah Beth a snack.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYou finish your bread and butter, sweetheart, and then I\u2019ll tuck you into bed,\u201d smiled Adrienne. She glanced back at Joe, whom she could see through the opened door. He appeared to be resting comfortably.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Half an hour later, Sarah Beth was back in bed and sleeping, unlike Adrienne\u2019s guest. Joe had begun to mumble and was once again trying to get up.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cOh no you don\u2019t!\u201d Adrienne stopped Joe by gently pushing him back down against the pillows and mattress.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe, his eyes wide, and his thoughts muddled by confusion grabbed Adrienne\u2019s arms. \u201cNo!\u201d he blared, as he tried to shove her away. \u201cDon\u2019t make me shoot you!\u201d he growled.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adrienne lost her footing as Joe\u2019s moment of strength almost succeeded in pushing her backwards. She steadied herself and using her own strength, was able to force the quickly tiring Joe back into the bed. Joe moaned as Adrienne pressed him back against the pillows.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cBe still, Joe,\u201d she said with one hand on his good shoulder. \u201cYou\u2019re burning up, again, and look what you\u2019ve gone and done!\u201d she groaned.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

His bandage was showing red and Adrienne knew that all Joe\u2019s foolishness had reopened the wound and it had started to seep blood. She pressed her hand to the bandage, causing Joe to cry out.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cOh\u2026hurts,\u201d he whispered as he shrank back against the mattress. He stopped his moving about and lay perfectly still. With clouded, pain filled eyes, he looked up at Adrienne.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cThe boy\u2026I have\u2026money\u2026for food,\u201d Joe forced his words out.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adrienne had begun to remove the bandage to see just how much damage had been done. She kept a constant watch on Joe\u2019s face, noting each flinch and grimace of pain that he made. He groaned as she peeled away the last bit of the bandage.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cEasy, I don\u2019t mean to hurt you, but I have to clean this up and put on a new bandage,\u201d she explained. As the last strip of bandage was lifted, Adrienne sighed in relief; so far there was no sign of infection.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe nodded his head, his eyes were pinched shut to ward of the pain. From the corners, tiny droplets of water seeped free and rolled ever so slowly down the sides of his face. Adrienne worked with skilled fingers, trained by tending to the many injuries of her brothers and father over a number of years. She noted the tears and the little beads of water that were surfacing on his brow as well.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cAlmost finished Joe, and then you can rest,\u201d she said softly.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

She loved living on the open range. She always had, with Josh and then later with the children, it had always been like paradise to her. Until recently that is, things had gone poorly for them, half of their cattle had died when the watering hole had gone bad. Afterwards, things seemed to go from bad to worse, they suffered a month long drought and had lost most of their crops, and the well had practically gone dry. They had only enough money to buy food and supplies to last them through the winter, so Josh had bid them all good-bye, with the promise that he would return soon with a wagonload of goods to last them the winter. When he had left and she was alone with just the children and herself, she had suddenly become frightened and lonely for the first time since settling there.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

When she had found Joe, bleeding and so near death, the frightened feeling returned. They were so far from any town, there was nothing between them and Salt Lake City but a small trading post, and any hopes of having a doctor were unheard of, for the nearest physician was better than fifty miles away. So one learned quickly how to tend to injuries, illnesses and basic discomfort.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

She glanced again at Joe\u2019s expression and her heart felt such sorrow for the poor man. She\u2019d done all she could to ease his pain and suffering, but now it was up to him. He was young, about twenty or twenty-one perhaps, Adrienne figured, not much younger than herself and he was certainly healthy. By the way his muscles rippled along his chest and arms, his stomach and even in his legs, the boy had known hard work in his lifetime. What Joe needed now was plenty of rest and good nourishing food.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

At the thought of food, Adrienne\u2019s thoughts turned to her children. She dampened the cloth that covered Joe\u2019s brow and replaced it. Slowly she moved to the kitchen, and began going through her cupboards; they were practically empty. Adrienne made a mental note of her stock, and then sighed wearily.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cOh Josh, won\u2019t you please hurry\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe\u2019s fever continued to linger far into the next evening. By the time he awoke, Adrienne had put her children to bed and was sitting cross-legged in an old worn but comfortable chair next to his bed. Her head was bent low, her eyes closed tightly and by the rise and fall of her chest, Joe knew that the lovely young woman was sleeping.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

His senses picked up the faint aroma of fresh baked bread and he couldn\u2019t help refraining from sniffing the air. At that moment, his stomach rumbled, reminding him that it had been hours since he had last had anything to eat. He thought about slipping carefully from his bed and helping himself, but shucked that idea. He was much too weak, he had found that out the first time he had attempted to make his way to the kitchen. Why had he gotten out of bed? His mind seemed boggled and the reasoning so far fetched. Joe leaned his head back into the pillow and closed his eyes, trying to dredge the memory from his brain.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Hungry\u2026that was it, he realized as his eyes popped opened and he quickly turned to Adrienne. Her children were hungry\u2026but why? Hadn\u2019t she enough food to feed them\u2026and if not\u2026how was she managing? An unpleasant thought jolted him wider awake and he felt his stomach churn once more, but not from hunger, more so from what he realized that his being there was costing the woman and her children.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cAdrienne,\u201d he said in a soft voice as he touched her arm with his hand. \u201cAdrienne?\u201d he whispered a second time.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adrienne\u2019s head snapped up and moving quickly, she unfolded her legs and moved closer to the bed. \u201cJoe? What\u2019s wrong?\u201d she asked in a worried voice. \u201cAre you in pain?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe saw the anxious look on her face and he hurried to reassure her. \u201cNo\u2026at least, not too much\u2026I\u2019m fine\u2026really,\u201d he lied, for he was hurting, far more than he cared to admit to this gracious young woman.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWhat then\u2026are you hungry? I have some broth\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cNo\u2026Adrienne\u2026\u201d Joe paused. \u201cI need to know something\u2026and please, be honest with me,\u201d Joe stated.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

He watched how quickly she averted her eyes so that she would not have to stare into his. Joe reached out and took her hand in his and gave her a quick smile. The feel of her hand in his caused him to shudder. Joe took a deep breath and proceeded.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYour little boy\u2026he was upset with you\u2026because of me\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cNo,\u201d she hurried to say.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWhy? And he said that your food supply was almost gone\u2026I want to know if that\u2019s true,\u201d Joe asked.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cJoe\u2026\u201d paused Adrienne and then looked up, into his face. He was watching her intently and she knew he would never stop questioning her until he knew the truth. \u201cYes\u2026he was angry at me\u2026and yes it was because of you\u2026but Joe\u2026he\u2019s only a little boy and he doesn\u2019t understand and\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI know that Adrienne, and I don\u2019t fault him for that\u2026it\u2019s okay. But what about your food supply? How low are you?\u201d Joe inquired. His fingers gently caressed the back of her hand as they talked.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWe\u2019ve almost out\u2026there\u2019s just a few onions and peppers, and even less potatoes and beans\u2026I killed the last rooster the day after I found you\u2026and I\u2019ve only flour and meal enough for two more loaves of bread and maybe a skillet of cornbread\u2026and\u2026and\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adrienne pulled back her hand and when she had lowered her head, she covered her face with both hands and began to weep.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cJosh should have been back by now,\u201d she sobbed. \u201cHe\u2019s never taken this long before\u2026he was bringing back enough supplies to last us through the winter and then he was going to get a loan at the bank in Salt Lake City and then\u2026.\u201d Her words became muddled and Joe could not understand what she was saying.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Her crying tore at his heart and he was at a loss as to how to comfort Adrienne.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cPlease\u2026stop crying\u2026it can\u2019t be as bad as you think. Surely your husband will be back any time now, unless\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adrienne\u2019s head darted up and she ceased crying, staring oddly into Joe\u2019s eyes. \u201cUnless what?\u201d she demanded.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe, realizing too late his mistake, gulped. \u201cI only meant that perhaps he was detained for some reason\u2026I didn\u2019t mean to worry you\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cOh\u2026yes,\u201d she said, standing to her feet. She turned and walked away from the bed, stopping to peer out the window. When she turned, she was smiling. \u201cOh course, Joe, my husband was just delayed, he\u2019ll be here soon\u2026.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cAdrienne, I have a little money\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cOh Joe\u2026no, I couldn\u2019t\u2026Besides, once Josh gets back, everything will be just fine, you wait and see,\u201d she rushed to explain.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cBut until then, you could use it, go into town and buy what you need\u2026for the children,\u201d Joe told her.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cTown?\u201d Adrienne almost laughed. \u201cJoe\u2026the nearest town is a days ride from here\u2026on horse back\u2026and then it\u2019s only a trading post. They don\u2019t even have a doctor; they don\u2019t have a mercantile, no dress shops, nothing\u2026not even a sheriff\u2019s office.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cNothing?\u201d stammered Joe, realizing for the first time, just how far from civilization they actually were. \u201cI take it they don\u2019t have a telegraph office either?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cNo\u2026why?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI need to wire my family in Virginia City\u2026my father must be worried sick about me\u2026your husband isn\u2019t the only one long over due,\u201d smiled Joe.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019m sorry Joe\u2026I wish I could do something about that, but I can\u2019t,\u201d she returned his smile. \u201cI suppose, until Josh comes back and your shoulder heals, we\u2019re stuck with each other.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

The smile on Joe\u2019s face faded momentarily. That\u2019s not the worse thing that could happen to me, he thought and then quickly shook the thought away.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYou ought to be glad it was me you found and not my brother Hoss,\u201d smiled Joe.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cAnd why is that?\u201d Adrienne asked in a light tone. God, he was so handsome, her heart told her mind as she stood over his bed, smiling down into his eyes that seemed to suddenly come alive with amusement.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cCause my brother weighs almost three hundred pounds and eats like a horse\u2026now me on the other hand, I eat practically nothing at all\u2026\u201d Joe stopped suddenly.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cAdrienne\u2026you have to take the money\u2026and you have to ride to the trading post and get some supplies\u2026just enough to last us a few days, until Josh gets home,\u201d he added quickly before she could interrupt him and refuse the offer. \u201cFor the children\u2026please?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

She seemed to be considering the offer. She did have her two children to think of\u2026she glanced at Joe with doubt still showing on her face.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cJosh took the riding horse and mule, Joe\u2026there\u2019s no way that I could get there except in the wagon, and that would take forever\u2026the team isn\u2019t broke to saddle, Joe.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYou can ride Cochise\u2026my horse. You did find him, didn\u2019t you?\u201d Joe hadn\u2019t thought about his mount until just then and the idea that his pinto might still be on the loose sent a new fear into his heart\u2026without a saddle horse between them\u2026<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYes, I found him before I found you. He\u2019s in the barn\u2026Petey\u2019s been caring for him.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cCan you ride?\u201d Joe asked.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adrienne surprised Joe with her light laughter. \u201cOf course I can ride\u2026I was born in the saddle,\u201d she scolded him softly.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cGood, then take all the money out of my saddlebags and the first thing in the morning\u2026you ride for that trading post and get just the essentials\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cBut the children?\u201d she asked as her laughter died.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cThey can stay with me\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYou? Joe, you can\u2019t keep an eye on those two\u2026you\u2019re hardly in any shape to\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cDon\u2019t you worry about me, or the kids, we\u2019ll be just fine,\u201d he said, hoping to squelch her fears. He wasn\u2019t too sure of what he, himself had suggested, but it was for sure that unless Adrienne rode to the trading post and bought a few things, the likelihood that they would all starve was very real.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adrienne moved to the edge of the bed and sat down. Her expression was a mixture of hopefulness and doubtfulness. \u201cAre you sure, Joe\u2026really sure? It could take me two days, even if I left at sunrise and then headed straight back.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe\u2019s hand caressed Adrienne\u2019s cheek, and again he felt the warming of his flesh as his fingers touched her face. \u201cI\u2019m sure,\u201d he muttered in a thick voice.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adrienne placed her hand over Joe\u2019s and brought the work worn fingers to her lips. Tenderly, as if she were in love for the very first time, she kissed the palm of his hand. Tears sprang into her eyes as she watched his grow dark with undeniable desire. Quickly, her body tingling, she lowered Joe\u2019s hand and stood up, she had to stop this nonsense, she chided herself\u2026she was a married woman\u2026and in love with no man, other than her husband. Her eyes studied Joe\u2019s face, but this man stirred within her an unsatisfied need\u2026Adrienne turned from Joe, unable to continue meeting his gaze.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019ll get you some broth, and a slice or two of bread. And then I need to get some sleep, if I\u2019m to leave early in the morning.\u201d She walked from the room, miniature beads of water dotted her brow and her breathing had become labored as she leaned over the kitchen table. \u2018Dear God,\u2019 she stammered silently, \u2018what\u2019s come over me?\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cNow Petey, you do everything that Mr. Cartwright tells you, and you and Sarah Beth stay inside this house, do you hear me?\u201d Adrienne issued her orders as she stood in the doorway. \u201cAnd you make sure that Joe stands in that bed\u2026Joe\u2026do you understand?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe giggled, smiling broadly, \u201cYes ma\u2019am\u2026don\u2019t you worry, we\u2019ll be fine,\u201d he called from his bed where he sat propped against the pillows. He was grinning from cheek to cheek and the angelic look on his face, caused Adrienne to return the smile.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019ll be back tomorrow night,\u201d she promised. \u201cYou have everything you need, and when you get hungry, Petey can fix you some soup. I hope you don\u2019t mind\u2026it\u2019s just stewed carrots, onions and potatoes\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cThat\u2019s plenty,\u201d assured Joe.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

His hand had slipped beneath the blanket and rested on the pistol that he had Adrienne bring to him earlier. One could never be too careful, he had told her. He had no notion of being caught off guard, should something unexpected spring up. She had agreed to his suggestion and also that the children be made to play inside. She had already fed what stock was in the barn and had milked the cow long before daylight, gathered the eggs and had even pulled up a fresh bucket of water from the well.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cBe careful, Adrienne,\u201d Joe cautioned as she kissed her children good-bye. \u201cCochise tends to be high spirited at times, keep a tight rein on him\u2026he\u2019ll get you there and back,\u201d smiled Joe.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cThank you Joe\u2026for everything,\u201d she smiled.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cNo\u2026it\u2019s I that should thank you\u2026but we\u2019ll argue the point when you get back, you best ride!\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

With a smile and a wave of her hand that carried to her children, sweet kisses, Adrienne mounted up and rode away.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cBut I gotta, Mr. Cartwright! The cow\u2019s gotta get milked,\u201d grumbled Petey.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe wrinkled up his face. \u201cYes, I know she does, but you can\u2019t do it\u2026not alone,\u201d argued Joe.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Sarah Beth had taken right up with Joe and had spent most of the day sitting in his room keeping him company. Joe had read to both children until he had fallen to sleep\u2026and when he had finally woke a couple of hours later, Petey had fed his little sister some bread and jam, poured her some milk and put the soup on the stove to begin warming.<\/p>\n

Everything had gone well, until Petey got it in his head that it was time for milking the cow.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cOh yes I can\u2026I do it everyday all by myself\u2026ain\u2019t nothing to it!\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Petey stood along side Joe\u2019s bed with his little hands folded across his chest. Joe could not keep from grinning, for the little boy looked much like a miniature man standing as he was, one overall strap falling off his shoulders, a pout on his lips and a determined set to his jaw.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cPerhaps so, but tonight, the cow will just have to go without milking\u2026you are not going out of this house until your ma comes back,\u201d Joe said in a tone that was equal to Ben Cartwright\u2019s. \u201cBesides, it\u2019s already dark and I heard you tell your mother that you didn\u2019t like to go out after dark.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI ain\u2019t scared of the dark!\u201d barked Petey.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cUh hum\u2026you is too \u2018fraid,\u201d Sarah Beth contradicted.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Petey glared at his sister, \u201cAm not!\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cAm too!\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cAM NOT!\u201d shouted Petey.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYou is too ascared\u2026\u201d Sarah turned to smile up a Joe. Before he could ask the little girl to stop teasing her brother, Petey moved next his sister and began shaking his fist under her nose.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI ain\u2019t afraid of the dark,\u201d he shouted.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe noted the tiny tears that had filled the little boy\u2019s eyes. \u201cSarah, why don\u2019t you go play with your dolly. I\u2019d like to have a word with your brother,\u201d smiled Joe.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cOtay Mr. Cartwhite,\u201d Sarah beamed as she scampered from the room.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

When Sarah had gone, Joe patted the side of his bed and waited until Petey had inched closer. The little boy refused to sit down next to Joe and stood along side the bed, his head bent down low.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cAm I in trouble, sir?\u201d he asked Joe in a low voice.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cOf course you\u2019re not,\u201d he said quickly. I just wanted to share something with you.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYou do?\u201d Petey seemed surprised and he moved just a bit closer. \u201cWhat?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe smiled; the boy was trying so hard not to cry. \u201cYou know Petey, it\u2019s alright to be afraid, sometimes a man just can\u2019t help it\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cBut I ain\u2019t afraid of the dark,\u201d the boy stammered, trying hard to sound convincing.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cOf course you\u2019re not\u2026but when I was your age, I sure was,\u201d Joe explained. His eyes watched the boy and when Petey met his gaze, his eyes were wide in wonder.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYou were?\u201d he questioned.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYep, sure was\u2026and at night, I had to have the lamp burning on low, so I could see if I happened to wake up,\u201d confessed Joe.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWow\u2026even I don\u2019t gotta have a light at night,\u201d muttered Petey. He moved an inch or so closer to Joe. \u201cWas ya ever scared when you got to be big\u2026like ya are now?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe pinched his lips tightly, and gave thought to his answer. The boy was warming to him, and anything less than the truth right now would destroy what little ground he had gained in earning the boy\u2019s friendship.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI was scared after I got shot. I knew I was hurt pretty bad, and I was afraid I might die. I had to find help, and I didn\u2019t know what to do,\u201d Joe admitted honestly.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cGosh,\u201d muttered Petey. \u201cI\u2019d be scared to if\u2019n I got shot. My Pa would have helped ya, if\u2019n he\u2019d been the one to find ya, instead of Mama,\u201d smiled Petey.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019m sure he would have son,\u201d Joe returned the smile. \u201cBut your mama helped me, and you and Sarah Beth\u2026I might have died if you hadn\u2019t come along when you did. I want to thank you,\u201d Joe was sincere.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Petey sat down on the edge of Joe\u2019s bed. The boy had lowered his head. \u201cI didn\u2019t pray for ya, like Mama asked me too,\u201d Petey said in a wee voice. \u201cI didn\u2019t want ya to live\u2026I just wanted ya to go away,\u201d he said, looking at last into Joe\u2019s face. \u201cI\u2019m sorry\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

When he looked up at Joe, his eyes had filled with tears. Joe pulled the little boy to him and held him tightly. \u201cThat\u2019s okay Petey\u2026I know you really didn\u2019t mean it.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYes I did, honest Mr. Cartwright,\u201d Petey pulled back and looked up at Joe. \u201cI was afraid that when ya got better, ya might take my Mama away\u2026cause she\u2019s so purty\u2026you know. And I didn\u2019t want my pa to come home and us not be here.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe felt his throat constrict.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI don\u2019t like my Pa to go away,\u201d Petey batted his long lashes, causing another tear to roll gently down his cheek. \u201cI\u2019m always scared that he won\u2019t come home.\u201d Petey sniffed his nose and ran his long sleeve under it to wipe off the dampness. \u201cKnow what I mean, Joe?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe had to swallow several times to clear away the thickness. He knew all too well how the little boy felt. When he could find his voice, he smiled.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI sure do Petey. My ma died when I was real little, younger than Sarah Beth and I missed her something terrible. I still do at times. After she died, I was always frightened when my Pa had to go away on business. I lived everyday that he was gone with the fear that he might not ever come back. It was several years later before I understood that my mama died and didn\u2019t just go away and leave me. Pa told me that she hadn\u2019t wanted to leave me, but that sometimes bad things happen to good people.\u201d Joe ruffled the top of the boy\u2019s head and pulled him into a hug for the second time.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cMy pa ain\u2019t never comin\u2019 home, Joe,\u201d Petey said sadly.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYou don\u2019t know that,\u201d Joe was surprised by the boy\u2019s statement.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYes I do\u2026he told me that the only way he\u2019d never come back, was if something bad happened to him. He ain\u2019t never lied to me, Joe\u2026so\u2019s I just figured something bad must\u2019va happened to him\u2026and he can\u2019t come home. Sorta like ya mama did.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Petey pushed Joe\u2019s arm away and stood up. \u201cI really gotta milk that cow, Little Joe,\u201d smiled Petey. \u201cShe bawlin\u2019, cain\u2019t ya hear her? And \u2018sides, I\u2019m the man of the house now and I gotta see to the chores.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe let out a long sigh. \u201cI suppose you\u2019re right, Petey, but I don\u2019t like the idea of you going out there alone.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019ll be fine\u2026honest\u2026please? We need the milk for in the morning,\u201d the boy pleaded.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cAlright, but I\u2019m only giving you half an hour\u2026don\u2019t make me come out there after you!\u201d ordered Joe, smiling.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Petey giggled, \u201cYa heard what Mama said, ya better not get outta that bed\u2026she keeps a switch hangin\u2019 on the wall,\u201d Petey pointed to the wall, and sure enough there was the switch.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe\u2019s face broke opened as he giggled. \u201cI bet your ma really knows how to use that switch, too,\u201d laughed Joe. \u201cYou best get to the milking son.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYessir,\u201d smiled Petey. The boy turned to leave but stopped and turned back around. \u201cThanks Little Joe\u2026and ya don\u2019t gotta worry none\u2026I promise not to tell anyone about ya being scared and all.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cThank you Petey,\u201d Joe nodded. \u201cI appreciate that.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Petey returned the smile and stopped at the door. \u201cLittle Joe?\u201d he said in a wee voice.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

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

 <\/p>\n

\u201cSo\u2019s ya\u2019ll know\u2026I really am afraid of the dark.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Before Joe could say another word, Petey had turned and fled the room. A moment later, Joe heard the door slam as the boy hurried out to the barn to milk the cow.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe glanced at the clock that hung on the wall in the living room that could easily be seen through his opened door. It had only been a few minutes, but he could not stop worrying about the young boy. Had he made a mistake by letting Petey go to the barn alone? What if something happened to him, or what if the old milk cow should happen to spook and kick the boy? Joe was becoming nervous over his decision about letting Petey out of the house. He turned to the window, it had grown dark quickly and the boy\u2019s words about being afraid of the dark had added more doubt to his stress.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Carefully he tossed back the blankets that covered him and using extreme caution, slowly swung his legs around until he was sitting on the side of the bed. Joe was thankful that he had been allowed to put back on his longjohns as he didn\u2019t think that with just one good hand, he would have been able to manage alone.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

He smiled at the memory. It had been about this time of day when he had demanded to have his clothes. Adrienne had brought him his long john bottoms and after several attempts of putting on his own pants, he had to ask the young woman to help him. Adrienne had turned beet red and when she tried to explain why she shouldn\u2019t Joe had only laughed at her. Finally, after much pleading, Adrienne had extinguished the lamp so that they would be in total blackness. She had held the waistband opened, and allowed Joe to step into them, and then carefully she had helped him pull the bottoms up, until she got as far as his knees, and then she removed her hands and turned her back to him. Once Joe had them on, he was so exhausted that he had practically fallen into the bed. When Adrienne heard him moan softly, she was instantly by his side. Her worry for his welfare shone in her eyes.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe closed his eyes for just a moment, recalling his next move. When Adrienne bent down to check on him, he had slipped his arm about her neck and quickly, yet with all the tenderness he felt for her, pulled her down to him. When their eyes locked, it had seemed to Joe that his world has ceased spinning. He raised his head and gently pressed his lips to hers. The kiss was soft at first and then became more demanding as she yielded herself over to him.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe stood carefully to his feet, shaking his head to rid himself of the vision. He knew he had been wrong in kissing the lovely Adrienne, but he had not been able to stop himself, and when she had returned the kiss so willingly, he had lost sense of everything except for the woman whom he held in his arm.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe groaned. For days now, he had been trying to tell himself that he didn\u2019t love her, that he couldn\u2019t\u2026she was a married woman, but in truth, he knew that he was just fooling only himself. He did love her, he desired her and she wanted him as well\u2026her ardent, burning kiss had told him that much.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe\u2019s thoughts were shattered by the blood-curdling scream that rang loudly through the darkness. Joe froze in his tracks, not fully comprehending what he had just heard until the second ear-piercing scream shattered any doubt he might have had.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cPETEY!\u201d shouted Joe aloud.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

He made a grab for the pistol that he had moved to the table near his bed and started toward the door in a rush. Unexpectedly, the door burst opened and a terrified Petey flew into Joe\u2019s arm, catching him off guard. Both man and boy staggered backwards. The wound in Joe\u2019s shoulder sent spasms of pain shooting throughout his weakened body. Joe bit down on his lip, drawing blood, to keep from screaming out in pain.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Quickly gathering his thoughts, he grabbed the sobbing child by one shoulder. \u201cPetey\u2026Petey\u2026stop crying and tell me what\u2019s wrong!\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Petey sobbed on, pointing out the door. Joe could feel the boy\u2019s little body trembling in fear. When he glanced at Sarah, she stood in the doorway of her room; her eyes wide with fright as well.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cPetey\u2026calm down\u2026tell me, what frightened you?\u201d Joe said as he clenched his teeth to the throbbing in his right shoulder.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWild dogs\u2026they\u2019re at the barn. When I came\u2026with the milk, I saw them, Joe\u2026they scared me and I ran for the house,\u201d cried Petey.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe felt the terror wash over him as he held the boy pressed to him. \u201cI dropped the milk bucket,\u201d sobbed the child.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cShh\u2026don\u2019t cry, Petey, it\u2019s okay, we\u2019ll have more milk in the morning,\u201d Joe explained.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cBut the cow\u2026the dogs\u2026they\u2019re trying to get mama\u2019s milk cow, Joe\u2026do somethin\u2019!\u201d sobbed Petey.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe scanned the room with his eyes. He glanced at the old pistol he held in his hand. He needed more than a six gun to scatter the dogs. Joe had no idea how many there were, but one wild dog, possibly starving was one wild dog too many.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cPetey, listen to me\u2026STOP CRYING!\u201d snapped Joe, giving the boy a firm shake. \u201cThat\u2019s better, does your papa have a rifle around here?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Petey, sniffing, pointed to his mother\u2019s room. \u201cIn there, on the wall\u2026it\u2019s a shotgun,\u201d Petey told Joe.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe made his way into Adrienne\u2019s room as fast as he could. He found the shotgun and removed it from the wall. He checked to see if the gun was loaded and when he found it empty, he glanced around the room. In what appeared to be a man\u2019s chest, he pulled opened the top drawer, and rummaged around inside until he found the box of shells. Instantly he loaded the weapon and then put several of the cartridges into the pocket of his jacket that he had slipped on just minutes before Petey had let out the spine-chilling scream.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe turned toward the door and carefully picked his way around the furniture. His hand was bracing his body on the edge of the dresser. As he started passed, his eyes fell on a photograph. It was Adrienne; Sarah Beth was much smaller and was sitting on her mother\u2019s lap, Petey stood to her right. It was the face of the man with them that drew his attention, and he lifted the photograph up until he could see the face of the man more clearly.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

His breath expelled from his lungs and he felt his body sway and quite unexpectedly, Joe felt very weak. Breathing had become next to impossible and Joe feared that he might pass out. His hand trembled as he placed the picture back onto the dresser. His eyes shut tightly against the image.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cNo\u2026no\u2026it can\u2019t be,\u201d he whispered silently.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cJOE!\u201d shouted Petey. \u201cHURRY!\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe\u2019s head snapped up and he looked into the main room. Petey stood at the front door and was pointing into the darkness. When he looked up at Joe, his eyes were wide with fright.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cThey\u2019re back, Joe and one\u2019s almost in the barn! The cow\u2026ya gotta save mama\u2019s milk cow!\u201d wept Petey.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe made it to the door, and paused, placing his hand on the top of the boy\u2019s curly hair. He smiled, \u201cwhen I go out, you shut this door, Petey, and make sure you don\u2019t open it again, until I call out to you, understand?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Petey nodded his head. Joe glanced over his shoulder at Sarah who was crying. \u201cIt will be all right, sweetheart. You just stay here with Petey. Petey, take care of your sister,\u201d ordered Joe as he slipped out into the darkness and shut the door tightly behind him.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

For several moments, Joe stood in the darkness, giving his eyes time to adjust to the dense blackness. He could hear the dogs running around the barn and could hear them yelping at the door. His ears picked up the faint sound of scratching and knew that the dogs were trying to dig under the door.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Carefully, being sure to stay up wind of the animals, Joe crept slowly through the night until he came to the well. He lowered himself behind the small well house and peeked over the top. So far the dogs had not picked up his scent, and Joe prayerfully begged the Almighty not to give them that chance. He counted four dogs in all. They were big dogs, shepherds of mixed sizes he concluded, probably mixed with timber wolf, making the dogs extremely dangerous.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe checked his rifle and slowly raised it to his left shoulder and fired. The sudden noise startled the dogs, but they refused to run off. Instead, they turned their attention on the one who had fired the gun. A large black dog growled, the sound coming from deep down in the animal\u2019s throat. The growl was meant as a warning to the dog\u2019s predator. Joe raised up slightly so that he could see over the top of the well house. A second dog hunkered down as if to pounce and the third and fourth dogs, standing slightly behind the first two, began barking loudly.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe was unsure what his next move might be. He kept his eye on the black dog, obviously the leader of the pack. The dog encouraged by Joe\u2019s silence, crept forward, followed by the others. The wind had shifted and now the dogs were picking up on Joe\u2019s scent as they advanced.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

The pain in Joe\u2019s shoulder had momentarily been forgotten when he had spied the photograph of Adrienne and her family, but now had returned. Joe shivered, the night air was nippy and when he peeked again at the dogs, there was only three. Joe\u2019s eyes roamed the yard for the big black dog, but being so dark, Joe was unable to find the animal.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

The dogs had shortened the distance between themselves and his hideout to about half. When the dogs were less than half way, Joe pointed his rifle and fired the second shell. The loud yelping of one dog pierced the quite solitude of the night. Rushing to slip two more shells into the barrels of his shotgun, Joe watched as two of the dogs ran off, into the thickets that lay to the opposite side of the barn. The third dog approached cautiously, growling as it slithered along on the ground toward him.<\/p>\n

Not wanting to waste any more of the precious shells, Joe stood to his feet and began shouting, waving his one good arm into the air. The dog, not sure what was after him, tucked his tail between his legs and darted off into the darkness to seek refuge with his two friends.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWhew\u2026\u201d Joe sighed, glad that the dogs had left so willingly.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

His eyes searched the darkness for the big black dog, but it was impossible to see him. The cow had begun bawling loudly as Joe slipped to the door. His ankle twisted slightly and he winced at the sharp pain that shot up his leg. He looked down to see what had caused him to turn his ankle and could barely make out the hole that had been dug beneath the barn door.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

The cow and the team of harness horses could be heard moving around nervously inside. Something had the animals spooked decided Joe as he eased opened the door. His rifle was cocked and ready to fire as he slipped into the barn. Joe paused, getting his bearings before going any further. He had never been in the barn and the layout was something that he was unfamiliar with. Joe had no idea how long he stood in the shadows, but at last he heard the low growl that came from deep within the throat of the big dog. Joe was at a disadvantage, having only one free arm and hand in which to use the gun. He braced his arm and the rifle on the half wall that he leaned against. He would have to make the shot count if he wished to rid the barn of the unwanted predator.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe took a deep breath and held it. The animals shuffled around, obviously frightened by the scent of impending danger that they had picked up on. The cow bellowed loudly, a bucket was tipped over and then the cow startled the barn\u2019s occupants, including Joe, when she kicked her hoof out behind her. Instantly Joe heard the dog begin to yap and knew that the old milk cow had scored the first point in her favor.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Through the darkness, Joe could see the outline of the dog as it inched its way back toward the cow. By this time, the cow had begun it\u2019s bellowing once more and moved frantically from side to side of her stall, trying to free herself.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

The dog moved quickly as he slithered along on his belly. Joe sighted the animal and just as the big black dog sprung into the air, Joe fired the rifle. The echo of the shot seemed to ring in the young man\u2019s ears. Joe watched as the dog dropped to the ground and lay motionless. Moments later, Joe left his hiding place and stepped over to the dog. He leaned over the dog and felt several of the places where the pellets from the shell had entered the dog\u2019s body. The leader of the pack was dead and Joe knew that at least for now, the stock would be safe, for the others would not return until they had another leader. Joe propped the gun against the wall and dragged the dog from the barn. It would have to wait to be disposed of, for Joe was unable to do it in his present condition. After checking and calming the stock, Joe made his way back to the house. He was drained, exhausted beyond going as he pushed himself to get to the house.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

By the time that Joe had reached the door, it was all he could do to stand on his own two feet. He leaned against the railing on the porch, and drew a deep breath.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cPETEY!\u201d he called weakly.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

The door opened immediately and the young boy ran to Joe, wrapping his arms about Joe\u2019s waist. Joe staggered slightly at the force in which Petey collided into him. The pain in his shoulder caused him to clench his jaw tightly to keep from crying out. He gripped the back of the young boy\u2019s head and held it against his mid-section.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYou\u2019re alright!\u201d cried Petey. He hugged Joe tighter and then looked up.
\n\u201cIs the cow\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cShe\u2019s fine, son. Help me inside, please,\u201d Joe insisted as he stumbled through the door. \u201cThe bed\u2026I have to lay down,\u201d he moaned.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Petey guided Joe into the room and helped him as best he could to lie down. Joe was breathing heavily and he tried to hide his pain from the boy.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWhere\u2019s Sarah?\u201d Joe said in a whispered voice.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cShe\u2019s right here,\u201d Petey said as he pointed to his little sister that had been hiding behind her brother.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe raised his head from the pillow and offered the little girl a weak smile. \u201cIt\u2019s okay, Sarah, the doggies are gone now\u2026they won\u2019t be coming\u2026back.\u201d Joe\u2019s head fell back against the pillow; his eyes closed.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Petey stood next to the bed, watching and waiting expectantly for Joe to open his eyes. After several moments, Joe’s eyelids fluttered and then opened. Petey\u2019s frightened face loomed over him and Joe could see the fear written in the expression on the boy\u2019s face.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYa gonna be alright, Little Joe?\u201d Petey said in a whisper.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019m fine, son. There\u2019s no need for you to worry, I\u2019m just very, very tired.\u201d Joe patted Petey\u2019s shoulder. \u201cWhy don\u2019t you and Sarah go on to bed, it\u2019s past your bedtime now?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYa sure, Little Joe? I can stay here\u2026with ya\u2026just in case ya might need me?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe gave the boy a warm smile\u2026somehow it appeared that he had finally won the boy over. \u201cI think your mama would have my hide if she knew I let you stay up half the night\u2026just go on to bed, son\u2026I won\u2019t need anything before in the morning.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe saw the boy\u2019s chin drop. \u201cI\u2019ll need you then, Petey, so you need to get all the rest you can\u2026Okay?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Petey smiled suddenly and nodded his head. \u201cOh boy Little Joe\u2026there\u2019s lots of things I can do for ya! Pa let\u2019s me help him all the time! Night!\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe waited until Petey and his sister went into their rooms before allowing himself the comfort of closing his eyes once more. When he woke to the pain in his shoulder, it was several hours later. He glanced toward the living area and noted that Petey had left a lamp burning low. The thought of the boy using a match that might have caused him to be burnt caused Joe to tremble. He\u2019d have to remember to speak with Petey and ask if his mother allowed him to do such grown-up things.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe\u2019s throat was dry and he needed a drink of water in the worst way. Carefully he swung his legs over the side of the bed and pushed himself up, onto his feet. With his only usable hand, Joe braced himself on the table next to the bed and slowly managed to make it to the pitcher on the wash stand. It was emptied; Joe groaned and started to pick it up but decided against it. Instead, he slowly worked his way into the kitchen where he pumped water from the pump at the sink. The water was cool and seemed to relieve most of the dryness in his mouth. He pumped the handle one more time until the water ran freely and then splashed some onto his face. The water was refreshing and seemed to clear some of the cobwebs from Joe\u2019s head.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe wiped dry his face with a towel he\u2019d found and began the trek back to his room. He\u2019d almost reached the door when he stopped. Glancing into Adrienne\u2019s room, and seeing Petey curled up in a tight ball, Joe walked into the room and covered the sleeping child with the blanket. Petey moaned softly and turned onto his side, sleeping soundly as he did so.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe started out, but the photograph he\u2019d seen earlier caught his eye for the second time that night. Silently he picked up the framed picture and carried it with him to the light. As he sat down in the chair at the table, Joe held the picture under the lamplight to get a better look. He studied the image of the man, very much aware of the knots that began tightening in his stomach. He wasn\u2019t surprised to see the hand that clutched tightly to the photograph, begin to shake.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cIt can\u2019t be\u2026\u201d Joe murmured to himself. \u201cDear God, it just can\u2019t be!\u201d he whispered loudly and he sat the picture face down on the table so that he would not have to look at the smiles on the faces of the happy family.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe pushed back his chair and walked to the door, opening it. He stepped cautiously out onto the porch, leaning against the post to support the weight of his body. His thoughts turned to the lovely young woman who had saved his life. Adrienne was the essence of true beauty, decided Joe. She was kind, caring, full of compassion and pleasant to look at. Joe glanced up at the stars and wondered just how long she and her husband, Josh, had been married. How had they met, and what was it about the man, that had attracted her to him.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe swiped his hand across his mouth. The memory of their kiss burned his lips, giving him the freedom to wonder what it might be like to make love to her. She had responded to his kiss, he had seen the hunger in her eyes and he had sensed that she had wanted him as much as he had desired her.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe suddenly shook his head to free the fantasy from his head. It was silly, he told himself, to permit such thoughts. His father would be shocked to know that his youngest son was lusting after another man\u2019s wife. He wondered what his father would say, if he knew, and Joe frowned\u2026it wouldn\u2019t be pleasant. For Ben Cartwright was a man of high morals and those same morals that Ben lived by, he had tried to teach to his sons. Joe knew his father would be disappointed in him if he had any inkling that his youngest son was harboring such notions.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

The far distant howl of a lone coyote snapped Joe back to the present. He shivered for the late night air had grown cool. Joe returned to the kitchen, picked up the photograph and carried it back to Adrienne\u2019s room where he placed it where he had found it. He lingered momentarily, staring at the likeness of the small family. Taking a deep breath, Joe wiped the unexpected dampness from his face and made his way back to his bed where he lay staring up at the ceiling until the sun\u2019s rays had herald in the beginning of a new day.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

It hadn\u2019t been easy using just one hand, but Joe had managed to get the old milk cow to give him half a bucket of milk. By that time, Joe was wondering if he had over done himself, milking the cow, gathering what few eggs the chickens had lain, and he had even forced himself to make breakfast for the two children who now sat at the table waiting to be served. It had drained his strength, for he still very much needed to be in the bed. Adrienne would be furious with him when she returned and found out all that he had been doing.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

His eyes sought the switch hanging on the wall and he couldn\u2019t help but smile. The smile however, soon died. The pain in his shoulder had grown worse and he felt weak and sick to his stomach. His thoughts kept returning to the photograph he had found the night before and he could only wonder about the man in the picture with the lovely young woman.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Sleep had abandoned Joe the night before, his thoughts had been focused on this family\u2026mostly Adrienne and the children\u2026the man\u2019s face haunted him. The one time he had closed his eyes, the face had towered over him, sending cold chills running up and down his spine. Joe had awoken with his body covered in a layer of sweat and from then until sunup, Joe had not slept. For the remainder of the night, Joe had repeatedly told himself that he did not love her. But by daybreak, alone in his room and with tears that rolled gently down his face, he had at last admitted to himself that he had indeed fallen in love with the dark hair beauty. But it was only a magical love woven of gossamer dreams, enchantingly real, that people in love are privileged to feel\u2026an exquisite ecstasy that captures the heart. In the end, Joe admitted that it was a love that could never be; a love that was destined to die before it bloomed. The laughter that they had shared would turn to teardrops, the bad would, for once, over rule the good and in the end, Adrienne and her children would end up hating him. The truth of the matter left him feeling more drained than his injury, it left his heart with an empty, hollow feeling\u2026and he faced the new day with a sudden dread, for the man\u2019s face still lingered in his thoughts. It was because of that man in the picture, that Adrienne and her children would turn against him before the morning sky turned to night, and their hatred of him would be justified, reasoned Joe.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYou kids eat your breakfast,\u201d Joe ordered angrily. \u201cI\u2019m going to lie down for just a few minutes,\u201d he explained as he slowly crossed the kitchen to his room. \u201cStay inside\u2026there\u2019s nothing you have to tend to outside\u2026Petey\u2026are you listening?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe had stopped at his room and turned toward the child, waiting for an answer to his question. \u201cWell?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYessir. I\u2019ll make sure Sarah don\u2019t get into nuthin\u2019 too,\u201d said the little boy with a quivering chin. His eyes filled with tears, yet he refused to brush them away. \u201cWhat\u2019ca yellin\u2019 at me for? I didn\u2019t do nuthin\u2019, did I Joe?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYelling?\u201d Joe asked surprised. \u201cCome here Petey,\u201d he said in a tender voice.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Petey did as requested and stopped in front of Joe. Joe cupped the boy\u2019s trembling chin and tilted his head upward.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019m sorry little buddy, I didn\u2019t mean to be cross\u2026it\u2019s just that\u2026right now my shoulder isn\u2019t feeling too good, and I have a lot on my mind,\u201d smiled Joe.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cIts mama, ain\u2019t it, Joe? You\u2019re worried about her, huh?\u201d Petey asked.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe nodded his head and gave the boy a smile. \u201cThat\u2019s right Petey, I am worried about your mother\u2026I\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYou like my mama, don\u2019t ya?\u201d Petey said in a wee voice.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

The statement caught Joe off guard. He glanced quickly down at the boy and tried to find his voice. He cleared his throat.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cOf course I like your mama, but I like you too, and Sarah Beth\u2026I like all of you,\u201d stammered Joe.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Petey opened his eyes wide and then surprised Joe again by winking at him. \u201cYeah, I know\u2026but you like mama best, I can tell,\u201d Petey grinned.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cOh, you can, can you\u2026how?\u201d Joe dared to ask.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cCause I seen ya and mama\u2026the other day,\u201d Petey taunted with a grin.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe swallowed, wondering what it was that Petey might have seen, for they had done nothing that could be counted as improper\u2026unless one could consider the kiss that\u2026<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI seen ya kiss Mama\u2026and then I seen the way ya looked at her and the way she looked at you. I ain\u2019t never seen mama look at no body like that \u2018ceptin\u2019 my pa\u2026and that\u2019s only cause she loves him\u2026Joe, do you love my mama too?\u201d Petey suddenly asked.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe was unable to look the boy in the eye and was forced to turn away. He took a deep breath\u2026God forgive me, his heart whispered, but yes, I love your mama.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cPetey,\u201d Joe said at last, \u201cI suppose I do love your mama\u2026but not like your pa loves her\u2026and your mama loves your father\u2026not me,\u201d Joe explained.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cThen why\u2019d she kiss ya?\u201d Petey was confused and it showed on his face.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cPetey, listen\u2026sometimes\u2026when two people, a man and a woman, like each other, they\u2026well\u2026sometimes they kiss\u2026it just happens,\u201d Joe was grasping at straws. \u201cBut that doesn\u2019t always mean that they are in love\u2026just friends\u2026and\u2026well\u2026someday, son, you\u2019ll understand\u2026okay?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cOh all right,\u201d Petey huffed as he wrinkled his nose. \u201cYa best get back in bed for mama gets home and finds out that ya didn\u2019t mind her\u2026she might switch ya if\u2019n ya still up when she gets here,\u201d ordered Petey.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe laughed softly. \u201cYou\u2019re probably right buddy, she might at that. Now, you remember what I said, you and Sarah play right here in this room. You know where I\u2019ll be if you need me\u2026and don\u2019t go outside, those dogs might come back and I don\u2019t want anything to happen to either of you\u2026understand?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYessir.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe was still sleeping when Adrienne slid from the back of his horse. She looped the reins around the hitching post and grabbed the sacks that were stretched across the horse\u2019s back. It was late in the day, and the house was quiet. She felt a twinge of disappointment for she had half expected her children to burst forth from the house and greet her with open arms.\u00a0\u00a0 When she stepped up on the porch, her disappointment instantly vanished for the front door was jerked opened and both children, squealing with pleasure at seeing her, flung themselves into her arms. Adrienne was forced to drop the sacks as each child wrapped themselves about her body.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cMama!\u201d cried Sarah Beth. \u201cYa shouldof been here\u2026the wild doggies twied to get the cow, but Mr. Cartwhite shooted\u2019em and they wunned away and Petey was out in the barn all alone and\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWhoa,\u201d laughed Adrienne, \u201cWhat\u2019s this about wild dogs? And Petey,\u201d Adrienne turned to her son, \u201cwhat does Sarah mean you were out in the barn? I thought I told you not to go outside unless\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cMaybe I\u2019d better explain,\u201d Joe said from the doorway; the children\u2019s high-pitched giggles had awakened him. He was surprised at himself for the rush of relief he felt when he had heard her voice and knew that she had made it home safely. He grinned at her while watching her untangle her children\u2019s arms from about her waist.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cPerhaps you\u2019d better,\u201d she returned the smile. Her eyes swept his body, pleased to see him on his feet and looking a might stronger than when she had left. \u201cFrom the sounds of this, I have a notion that none of you did as I ordered!\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI did\u2026I did, mama!\u201d Sarah Beth gleamed brightly. \u201cBut Petey and Mr. Cartwhite\u2026they been bad boys, Mama!\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adrienne and Joe swapped glances and both burst into laughter. Petey, not sure what had made his mama and Little Joe so happy, joined in the merriment.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019m glad you\u2019re feeling better, Joe,\u201d Adrienne said in a low voice.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

They had put the children to bed and were sitting at the table, sipping coffee.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cAnd, I\u2019m glad you had a safe trip,\u201d Joe returned the smile.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019m glad to be home, honestly, the people at that trading post are despicable!\u201d Adrienne groaned and then smiled when Joe laughed at her. \u201cWell, they are! Oh,\u201d she said, suddenly remembering the news that had sent tentacles of fear surging throughout her body. The smile on her face disappeared and she became serious.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI asked about my husband. Josh always made a point of stopping there on his way back from Salt Lake City. They said he had been there, about four or five days ago,\u201d she said quietly. \u201cI didn\u2019t want to say anything in front of the children\u2026they would have been so disappointed. And I\u2019m not sure those people were telling me the truth.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adrienne got up and walked around the table and stopped at the door. When she turned around, there were tears in her eyes.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cHe\u2019s not coming home, Joe\u2026ever,\u201d Adrienne cried.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe felt the sudden surge to his heart and quickly stood to his feet, unsure of what to say, or how to comfort her. \u201cAdrienne\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

She held her hand up to stop his words. \u201cSomething\u2019s happened to him, Joe\u2026I just know it has, otherwise, he\u2019d been here days ago.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe crossed the room to where she stood and placed his free hand on her shoulder. Her tear filled eyes sought his. Joe pulled Adrienne close to him and held her while she cried.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cAdrienne\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cNo, Joe\u2026there\u2019s nothing you can say\u2026nothing that will stop this empty feeling I have\u2026Josh is dead, Joe\u2026dead,\u201d sobbed Adrienne.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe swallowed and took a deep breath. \u201cI know, Adrienne,\u201d he whispered softly.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cOh Joe\u2026I wish I knew what happened to\u2026\u201d She pulled back from Joe\u2019s chest and stared opened-mouth at him.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cJoe,\u201d she uttered barely above a whisper. \u201cWhat do you mean, you know? How could you possibly know?\u201d she said a little louder.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

She watched his face and saw how he momentarily closed his eyes. When his eyes opened, they had filled with tears and when she placed her hand on his arm, Joe moved away. Her touch was like a hot branding iron and Joe wondered if he would ever be able to tell her what he had come to realize.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cAnswer me, Joe. You\u2019re keeping something from me! I want to know what it is!\u201d she said in a high pitched voice that bordered on hysteria.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cHe\u2019s dead.\u201d Joe said.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWHAT?\u201d shouted Adrienne, tears slipping down her face. \u201cHow\u2026how Joe\u2026how do you know this?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe turned around and faced Adrienne. The broken hearted look on her face tore his heart in two. \u201cI didn\u2019t know that he was your husband\u2026honest Adrienne, I didn\u2019t. Not until last night, when I found the picture in your room\u2026I was looking for the shot gun to run the dogs off\u2026and I saw it on your dresser, and\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adrienne\u2019s nostrils fared in anger. She had stopped crying. \u201cWhat are you saying\u2026surely you aren\u2019t implying that you\u2026Oh God, Joe\u2026you couldn\u2019t have\u2026not you!\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Her head dropped low until her chin was practically resting on her chest. Joe could see the trembling shoulders and hear the sound of her sobs as they wracked her body.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cTell me!\u201d she said between gritted teeth as she raised her head to look into his face, seeking the truth from him.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI didn\u2019t want to do it, Adrienne, but he left me no other choice. I had just made camp, a good day\u2019s ride from here, and he came into my camp late that night. He was friendly at first, I didn\u2019t think much about him, cause I\u2019d seen him in Salt Lake City, in a saloon\u2026he was playing poker and\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWHAT! He wouldn\u2019t\u2026he couldn\u2019t have been\u2026he didn\u2019t have any money, except the cash for the sup\u2026Oh God\u2026NO!\u201d she shouted. \u201cHe gambled away our savings\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cThat\u2019s what I figured\u2026\u201d<\/strong><\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cThen what?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cAs I said, he came into camp and acted all friendly like. I invited him to stay the night\u2026I didn\u2019t think there was anything to worry about\u2026until later. I woke up and found him going through my saddlebags. We got into a fight, and he pulled his gun on me\u2026Adrienne,\u201d Joe reached out for her but she pulled back. It was just as he had known it would be; already the hatred was burning into her eyes.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYou\u2019re a liar!\u201d she growled as she jerked her arm back out of his reach. \u201cJosh would never steal\u2026no matter how much he needed the money\u2026you\u2019re making this up\u2026or\u2026or\u2026you were trying to rob him!<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYou know better than that,\u201d he argued. \u201cHe tried to kill me\u2026he shot at me, but missed because I rolled away. I was able to get to my gun, but when I looked back at him, he had his pistol in his hand. I called out to him, not to shoot, but he pointed his gun at me and fired\u2026I had no other choice Adrienne\u2026it was either kill or be killed!\u201d His tone was urgent; he had to make her understand that it had not been his wish to kill anyone\u2026only to protect himself. \u201cAdrienne, please\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cGET AWAY FROM ME!\u201d she screamed at Joe. \u201cI don\u2019t believe you\u2026not one word\u2026Josh would never do those things. He was good and decent and I loved him\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe flinched when she raised her hand and brought it up to slap his face. \u201cI HATE YOU! I HATE YOU!\u201d she shouted. The tears rolled freely down the front of her face as she glared at him. \u201cGET OUT! DO YOU HEAR ME\u2026I SAID TO GET OUT!\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adrienne stepped up to Joe and began beating his chest with her balled up fists. At that instant, Joe hated himself for the sorrow and pain that he had brought to this family. He made no attempt to stop her, even when his shirt showed stains of bright red where her fists hammered into the barely healed bullet wound in his shoulder.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe\u2019s own eyes had filled with tears and when he blinked, they rolled slowly down from the corners of his eyes.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI wish I\u2019d left you out on the desert to die\u2026God, I wish it were you instead of Josh who is dead\u2026\u201d sobbed Adrienne.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

She had cried herself out and turned from him, leaving Joe standing with his good arm tangling down to his side. His brow was covered in sweat, his lips pressed tightly together and he had shut his eyes so as not to have to look into hers and see the disgust that she so obviously felt for him.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adrienne straightened her back and turned to face Joe. She had ceased her crying but the remnants of tears lingered on her cheeks. The glow was gone from her face and when she spoke, her lips curled upward in distaste.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI want you out of here before daylight. I don\u2019t care what happens to you\u2026I hope you keel over dead from that shoulder wound\u2026I hope you bleed to death and the buzzards pick your eyeballs out of your head…\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe turned his head to look at Adrienne, he could understand her resentment of him, but her words cut him to the very core.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI wish I\u2019d never found you, Joe Cartwright\u2026I wish to God\u2026I\u2019d never found you!\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

She ran from the room, leaving Joe standing alone in the semi-darkness. His chest swelled with the deep breath he drew and he felt as if his entire world had just finished crashing down on top of his head. His heart was shattered.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe turned to go, but stopped suddenly, surprised to see Petey standing in the doorway. Joe noted immediately that the young boy had been crying and the thoughts that he had been the cause of the boy\u2019s unhappiness added one more heartache to the growing pile that plagued the youngest Cartwright.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cPetey,\u201d Joe said softly.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

He took one step toward the boy and stopped. The same repulsion that had sparked his mother\u2019s hatred, had ignited a fire in the blue eyes that had, just hours ago, looked so trustingly into his own.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYou killed my Papa\u2026,\u201d Petey said. It was more of a statement than a question.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe\u2019s head dropped, looking at the young boy was the hardest thing that he had ever done. He couldn\u2019t do it and for several long agonizing moments, he didn\u2019t.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019m so sorry\u2026\u201d Joe whispered.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI hate you, Joe.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

The tears dripped from Joe\u2019s chin, he still could not bring himself to look into the eyes, knowing that they had filled with tears and more contempt than he had ever encountered before.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI know,\u201d muttered Joe in a cracked voice. Joe looked at his hand unaware that it trembled.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cSomeday\u2026when I\u2019m all grown up\u2026and you\u2019re old\u2026I\u2019m going to kill you.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Only then did Joe raised his head and look at the boy. He stared in disbelief at the eight-year old lad. He was stunned at the boy\u2019s words and left speechless.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cDo what my mama says and get out of here.\u201d The malice in Petey\u2019s voice was undeniable and it made Joe\u2019s blood run cold.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cPetey\u2026you can\u2019t mean what you said\u2026about wanting to kill me?\u201d stammered Joe.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Petey\u2019s body shook as he stood before Joe with all the hate that he harbored for the man in front of him, showing in his eyes and etched onto his little brow. He looked nothing like an eight-year old boy, standing, as he was, unafraid of the man who had admitted to killing his father. Joe looked down into the miniature face and felt himself flinch. The boy had every right to hate him\u2026and to want to kill him for what he believed Joe had done purposely. For that, Joe could not fault the boy, only himself.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYes I do\u2026someday\u2026I\u2019m gonna kill ya!\u201d screamed Petey.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cPETEY!\u201d shouted Adrienne from her bedroom doorway.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Petey\u2019s courage dissipated at the sound of his mother\u2019s voice and he flew into her arms, weeping. Without a word or glance at Joe, Adrienne gathered the child into her arms and carried him into the room with her and shut the door. Once more, Joe was left standing alone with nothing to keep him company but his shattered heart.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe felt numb all over. So much had happened in the last half-hour, that none of it seemed real. He moved about, as if in a trance, gathering what few articles of clothing he had and stuffing them into his saddlebags. He gave one last glance around the room to be sure he had not left anything and then slowly made his way to the front door. He paused, undecided as to whether or not he should take a few things with him, but decided against it. Adrienne and her family needed the supplies that she had ridden so far to obtain, it wasn\u2019t right to take food from her children. He had already taken far too much, and not just the food from their mouths, but their father from their lives.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe brushed his hand down the front of his face to wipe dry the moisture that had begun to seep from his eyes. How would they fare, once their food was gone? Where would they go? The unanswered questions followed him to the barn.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe tossed his things down on the pile of hay next to the stall where Cochise was stabled. It was far too late and much too dark to travel at night, decided Joe. He\u2019d just have to wait until daybreak to ride out, but, he promised himself, he would do as Adrienne had asked, and be gone long before the family woke.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

The night dragged on, it seemed endless to Joe, who stood in the open doorway of the barn and gazed longingly toward the house. He could see a light burning in Adrienne\u2019s window and as she paced back and forth in her room he could easily make out her silhouette against the darkness outside. Joe longed to go to her, to comfort her, to hold her in his arms, but he knew that should he try, Adrienne would only turn him away. And, he could not bear to hear her proclaim again, the hate that she felt for him, or to see the sadness on her face, or the grief in her dark eyes. The entire situation ripped him to pieces and he hurt, inside, deep down in his heart like he\u2019d never hurt before. In that instant Joe almost wished he had died out there, on the desert. It could not have hurt any more than what he was feeling at that minute.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe turned from the darkness and pulled the barn door tightly shut. The lonesome cry of coyotes could be heard filtering across the blackness and giving the night an eerie feel. It was a desolate sound that rendered one speechless and wondering\u2026much like the heartbroken cry coming from the tiny framed house where Adrienne Deavers lay upon her bed weeping for what she had lost.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe was many miles away by the time that Adrienne crawled from her bed. The house was quiet; her children lay sleeping as she slipped into the morning air. She wore the same clothes that she had worn the day before. Her shoes, she had kicked off and her feet were bare as she hurried to the barn. When she pulled opened the door and stuck her head inside, she wasn\u2019t sure what she was feeling. A mixture of relief and disappointment cornered her heart as she sighed deeply. His horse was gone, a testament to his leaving. Adrienne walked to the pile of loose hay and stared at the impression that his body had make where he had spent the night. She silently cursed him for what he had done to her and her children. She had not wanted to believe the story that he had told her\u2026Josh had been a good husband, an even better father. The details of her husband\u2019s death had destroyed something within her and left her feeling as if she had never really known her own husband.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

On the other hand, she knew that Joe had not lied, yet she blamed him for Josh\u2019s death, she cursed him for her broken heart and for her children\u2019s unhappiness. She had said things to him, mean, hurtful things that she had never said to another human being before. She had snarled at him, and slapped him, beat him with her fists, yet Joe had stood without moving, tears running down his handsome face and had let her unleash her hurt onto him.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe was in love with her, she knew it, she had known for several days. She had seen the way in which he looked at her, watched her as she moved about doing her work. She felt it when he touched her arm, or held her hand, she felt the heat of his passion the day he had pulled her to him and kissed her deeply\u2026yet she hated him. For everything\u2026all of it, his being hurt, her finding him and bringing him home to nurse, for falling in love with her and for making her children like him, she blamed him. She even blamed him for making her question her devotion to her husband, for causing her to question whether or not what she once thought was love, could be love at all, or something else. Adrienne ran her fingers through her long dark hair; she even blamed him for making her want him as much as he wanted her.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adrienne let out a long sigh and let herself out of the barn. What she felt now didn\u2019t matter anymore, he was gone, and Josh was dead. She had no one, other than her children and they needed her more now than ever before. Adrienne shielded her eyes against the bright morning rays and stared off into the horizon. She\u2019d never see him again. The thought troubled her some, but she pushed it to the back of her mind. What did it matter, she could never bring herself to love the man who killed her husband, no matter what reason\u2026she just couldn\u2019t do it.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adrienne walked slowly to the house; she had plans to make, there were things that needed to be seen to. She would return to Philadelphia where she could make a fresh start for herself and the children. She could bury herself in work and try to forget what happened here, in the middle of the desert, where love had budded and had died before it bloomed. Where love was nothing more than gossamer dreams woven as a fine film of cobwebs floating in the air; gentle love, sweet love, a never to be love.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

The pain in her heart would diminish over time; but would the memory of the man, who had stirred the seed of passion within her soul, haunt her dreams for years to come? Who could say?<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

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

September 2003<\/strong><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/strong><\/p>\n

Next in the Gossamer Dreams Series<\/strong>:<\/p>\n

From Dreams to Reality<\/a><\/p>\n

<\/div>\n

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

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

Summary:\u00a0\u00a0 ‘And love is sheer magic for it’s woven of Gossamer dreams, enchantingly real, that people in love are privileged to feel.’\u00a0 Found unconscious and near death, a young destitute woman and her two children take Joe Cartwright home with them in hopes of saving his life.\u00a0 Love blossoms, but Joe knows something about the woman’s husband…and his conscience forces him to share it with her.<\/p>\n

Rated:\u00a0 PG (19,150 words)<\/p>\n

Gossamer Dreams Series, links to all the stories within the series are included.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":9052,"featured_media":5289,"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_memberships_contains_paid_content":false,"footnotes":"","jetpack_post_was_ever_published":false},"categories":[23],"tags":[14,15,17,16],"class_list":["post-12154","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-drama","tag-adam-cartwright","tag-ben","tag-hoss","tag-joe","wpcat-23-id"],"a3_pvc":{"activated":true,"total_views":1496,"today_views":0},"jetpack_featured_media_url":"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/wp-content\/uploads\/2014\/04\/Quality-of-Mercy-8.jpg?fit=747%2C569&ssl=1","jetpack_likes_enabled":true,"jetpack-related-posts":[{"id":16184,"url":"https:\/\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/?p=16184","url_meta":{"origin":12154,"position":0},"title":"Giving You (by Foreverfree)","author":"Foreverfree","date":"March 31, 2018","format":false,"excerpt":"Summary: What love is all about - inspired by Joe -\u00a0my favorite Cartwright. My entry for The\u00a0World Poetry Day 2018. Rating: K Word count: 82","rel":"","context":"In "Poetry"","block_context":{"text":"Poetry","link":"https:\/\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/?cat=9"},"img":{"alt_text":"joe","src":"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/03\/Forever-part-2-00011.jpg?fit=768%2C576&ssl=1&resize=350%2C200","width":350,"height":200,"srcset":"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/03\/Forever-part-2-00011.jpg?fit=768%2C576&ssl=1&resize=350%2C200 1x, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/03\/Forever-part-2-00011.jpg?fit=768%2C576&ssl=1&resize=525%2C300 1.5x, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/03\/Forever-part-2-00011.jpg?fit=768%2C576&ssl=1&resize=700%2C400 2x"},"classes":[]},{"id":12155,"url":"https:\/\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/?p=12155","url_meta":{"origin":12154,"position":1},"title":"From Dreams to Reality (by DebbieB)","author":"DebbieB","date":"October 1, 2003","format":false,"excerpt":"Summary:\u00a0 Eight years after falling in love with a woman whose husband he killed, Joe comes face to face with a young man who once promised to avenge his father. Rated:\u00a0 PG (14, 125 words) Gossamer Dreams Series, links to all the stories within the series are included.","rel":"","context":"In "Drama"","block_context":{"text":"Drama","link":"https:\/\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/?cat=23"},"img":{"alt_text":"","src":"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/wp-content\/uploads\/2014\/04\/Quality-of-Mercy-8.jpg?fit=747%2C569&ssl=1&resize=350%2C200","width":350,"height":200,"srcset":"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/wp-content\/uploads\/2014\/04\/Quality-of-Mercy-8.jpg?fit=747%2C569&ssl=1&resize=350%2C200 1x, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/wp-content\/uploads\/2014\/04\/Quality-of-Mercy-8.jpg?fit=747%2C569&ssl=1&resize=525%2C300 1.5x, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/wp-content\/uploads\/2014\/04\/Quality-of-Mercy-8.jpg?fit=747%2C569&ssl=1&resize=700%2C400 2x"},"classes":[]},{"id":2951,"url":"https:\/\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/?p=2951","url_meta":{"origin":12154,"position":2},"title":"The End (by faust)","author":"faust","date":"June 8, 2013","format":false,"excerpt":"It's the end. The end of everything--or is it? No KAOS in this story. Honestly! 700 words, rated K","rel":"","context":"In "Drama"","block_context":{"text":"Drama","link":"https:\/\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/?cat=23"},"img":{"alt_text":"","src":"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/wp-content\/uploads\/2014\/04\/The-Gift-of-Water-4.jpg?fit=640%2C480&ssl=1&resize=350%2C200","width":350,"height":200,"srcset":"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/wp-content\/uploads\/2014\/04\/The-Gift-of-Water-4.jpg?fit=640%2C480&ssl=1&resize=350%2C200 1x, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/wp-content\/uploads\/2014\/04\/The-Gift-of-Water-4.jpg?fit=640%2C480&ssl=1&resize=525%2C300 1.5x"},"classes":[]},{"id":16021,"url":"https:\/\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/?p=16021","url_meta":{"origin":12154,"position":3},"title":"We Done Our Share (by BettyHT)","author":"BettyHT","date":"March 5, 2018","format":false,"excerpt":"SUMMARY: \u00a0My entry for the March 2018 poetry challenge -- It's a little discussion among the brothers about loves lost which is spoken in three voices. rating = PG13 \u00a0 \u00a0word count = 282","rel":"","context":"In "Poetry"","block_context":{"text":"Poetry","link":"https:\/\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/?cat=9"},"img":{"alt_text":"","src":"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/03\/three-brothers.jpg?fit=300%2C284&ssl=1&resize=350%2C200","width":350,"height":200},"classes":[]},{"id":750,"url":"https:\/\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/?p=750","url_meta":{"origin":12154,"position":4},"title":"Can’t Take My Eyes Off You (by Claire)","author":"Claire","date":"December 4, 2009","format":false,"excerpt":"Summary: \u00a0Someone is watching Joe from the shadows... someone who loves him and who can never let him go.\u00a0Because love lasts forever. Rated: K+ (3,220 words)","rel":"","context":"In "Drama"","block_context":{"text":"Drama","link":"https:\/\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/?cat=23"},"img":{"alt_text":"","src":"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/wp-content\/uploads\/2014\/04\/Joe.png?fit=682%2C453&ssl=1&resize=350%2C200","width":350,"height":200,"srcset":"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/wp-content\/uploads\/2014\/04\/Joe.png?fit=682%2C453&ssl=1&resize=350%2C200 1x, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/wp-content\/uploads\/2014\/04\/Joe.png?fit=682%2C453&ssl=1&resize=525%2C300 1.5x"},"classes":[]},{"id":2491,"url":"https:\/\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/?p=2491","url_meta":{"origin":12154,"position":5},"title":"Sunshine and Shadows (by Rona)","author":"Rona","date":"September 1, 2004","format":false,"excerpt":"Summary:\u00a0 A WHN for Shining In Spain. Joe is pining for Wendy, so Ben finds a reason to send him to San Francisco. But things don't go exactly as Joe planned.\u00a0 Rated:\u00a0 T \u00a0(12,330 Words)","rel":"","context":"In "Drama"","block_context":{"text":"Drama","link":"https:\/\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/?cat=23"},"img":{"alt_text":"","src":"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/wp-content\/uploads\/2014\/04\/godshands.jpg?fit=1133%2C717&ssl=1&resize=350%2C200","width":350,"height":200,"srcset":"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/wp-content\/uploads\/2014\/04\/godshands.jpg?fit=1133%2C717&ssl=1&resize=350%2C200 1x, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/wp-content\/uploads\/2014\/04\/godshands.jpg?fit=1133%2C717&ssl=1&resize=525%2C300 1.5x, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/wp-content\/uploads\/2014\/04\/godshands.jpg?fit=1133%2C717&ssl=1&resize=700%2C400 2x, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/wp-content\/uploads\/2014\/04\/godshands.jpg?fit=1133%2C717&ssl=1&resize=1050%2C600 3x"},"classes":[]}],"jetpack_sharing_enabled":true,"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/posts\/12154","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=12154"}],"version-history":[{"count":0,"href":"https:\/\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/posts\/12154\/revisions"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/media\/5289"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Fmedia&parent=12154"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Fcategories&post=12154"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Ftags&post=12154"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}