{"id":12254,"date":"2003-10-31T07:45:49","date_gmt":"2003-10-31T12:45:49","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/?p=12254"},"modified":"2025-02-27T12:07:38","modified_gmt":"2025-02-27T17:07:38","slug":"michael-landon-aka-joe-cartwright-by-debbieb","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/?p=12254","title":{"rendered":"Michael Landon AKA Joe Cartwright (by DebbieB)"},"content":{"rendered":"

Summary:\u00a0\u00a0 <\/strong>Caught between two worlds, Michael Landon AKA Joe Cartwright must choose.\u00a0 Which will it be…a life of extreme wealth, glamor and notoriety, or a life of\u00a0 warm understanding, peaceful living and contentment within himself?<\/p>\n

Rated:<\/strong> PG 13 Contains several cuss words. This story is meant only in fun, not to offend! (12, 360 words)<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Michael Landon AKA Joe Cartwright\u00a0<\/strong><\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019ll probably be late tonight sweetheart, we have to re-shoot some scenes, so don\u2019t wait up for me,\u201d Michael called as he hurried from the house. He glanced down at his watch, \u201cDamn,\u201d he cursed. \u201cI\u2019m gonna be late!\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Michael hurried to the garage, fumbling in his pocket for his keys as he jumped into his little sports car, mashing the button that would release the convertible top. Looking back over his shoulder to be sure the garage door was up, he carefully backed out of the building and turned the car around, toward the main gate of his home. He pushed the button on the remote over his dash that would open the double gates and zoomed out of his driveway. It wasn\u2019t long before he veered his car into traffic, as usual the 405 was backed up with morning commuters. Michael let out a long sigh, wondering just where everyone could be headed at 5:30 in the morning.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

It dawned on the handsome young star, after sitting in traffic for an hour that he could take a short cut to work. They weren\u2019t filming at the studio today, but were doing location shots at Vasquez Rock. Mike snickered to himself as he whipped in and out of traffic, leaving the freeway at a rate of speed much too fast to go down the exit, but he managed the car as well as any pro. Several more turns this way and that and Michael Landon was out on the open road.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

The wind whipped at his chestnut curls as Mike pressed his foot down on the accelerator. His mind was on his work and the lines he was suppose to know. He was so pre-occupied with his thoughts that he was unaware of the hazardous curve that lay ahead.\u00a0\u00a0 The road seemed to disappear before him as Mike\u2019s senses suddenly awakened to the danger of the sharp bend in the road. He stomped the brake with both feet, tires screeched as the smell of searing rubber and hot brakes reached his nostrils. The car bounced over the curve, leaving the road at a dangerous speed. There was no stopping the vehicle as the car crashed through the open desert headed straight for a small body of water. The lake seemed more a mirage than actual, until Mike felt the spray of cool water wash over his body.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

The car came to rest, nose down in the now muddy lake. Mike\u2019s head was slung forward, hitting the stirring wheel and knocking the television personality senseless. Slowly, the fancy new sports car sank to the bottom of the small lake. Mike\u2019s body floated upward and washed by the ripples from the sinking car, to the edge of the water, where he groaned slightly and turned over onto his back.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

The sun was midway of the sky by the time that Michael began coming around. He forced his eyes opened and then quickly shut them, shielding them from the hot rays of the sun. For several more minutes he lay where he was, trying to collect his muddled thoughts and trying to force himself to remember what had happened to him.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

At last he drew his body into a sitting position, groaning at the pain in his head. \u201cDamn,\u201d he cursed softly, rubbing at the goose egg on his temple. Mike forced his eyes opened and gazed around him, trying to get his bearings. Once he was standing, he seemed more confused than before.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWhat the hell?\u201d he stammered. He took a few unsteady steps and then stopped. \u201cSomething\u2019s not right\u2026\u201d Mike turned to look behind him, regretting the fact that he moved too fast, for he felt his body sway slightly and he extended one arm attempting to steady himself.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

After several more moments, when he was more sure of himself, Mike walked a short distance and then turned around and around until he had made a complete circle. His eyes were growing wide and a small grain of fear flickered through him.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cThe lake,\u201d he muttered to himself, \u201cit\u2019s not here\u2026and I know it was\u2026and my car, it\u2019s gone as well!\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Mike looked up at the sun, and then glanced down at his watch. \u201cMy watch! Oh no, that\u2019s the one that Lynn gave me for my birthday,\u201d he grumbled.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cOh\u2026my head\u2026it hurts,\u201d Michael mumbled to himself as he pressed his palm to the pump knot. He took a few staggering steps, glaring up at the hot sun. He pinched his eyes tightly against the throbbing pain across his forehead and then felt his body sagging to the ground as his legs gave way beneath him.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

He was unsure just how long that he had lain in the hot sun and was only aware of the deep sounding voice calling out someone else\u2019s name. Michael struggled to open his eyes to see the face behind the voice, but when he had finally succeeded, the bright light of the sun blinded his vision.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cJoe, wake up boy\u2026can you hear me?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cHeh?\u201d Mike muttered, shielding his eyes and seeing the face at last. He groaned softly as he allowed the man to help him sit upright.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cRay?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cHere Joe, take a drink.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Mike watched as the man pulled a cork from an old canteen and offered him a drink. Hot and tired, his head still pounding, Mike accepted the canteen from the man and turned it up to his lips.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cEasy, not so fast, Little Joe,\u201d the man scolded gently as he guided Mike\u2019s hand along with the canteen to his mouth for a second swallow of the cool water.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cThanks,\u201d Mike said, handing the water container back. \u201cRay\u2026what happened?\u201d he asked, trying to get to his feet.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cRoy,\u201d the man corrected. \u201cI don\u2019t know son, I just happened across you. Where\u2019s your horse?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cMy horse?\u201d stammered Mike. \u201cI wasn\u2019t riding a horse, I was driving my car\u2026my NEW car!\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYour what? Your car\u2026ain\u2019t never heard of a car before. Joe, ya sure, you\u2019re feeling okay? Maybe I\u2019d better get ya back to town and have the doc take a look at your head.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Michael was dumbfounded as he stared at the strange man dressed in cowboy garb and wearing a Stetson hat and a sidearm as well.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cJoe\u2026did ya hear what I said? Come on, boy, ya can ride double with me. I\u2019ll git ya to Doc Martin\u2019s and then send word to your Pa.\u201d The man started walking toward his horse.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWait a minute\u2026who\u2019s Doc Martin\u2026and what did you mean about my Pa? My father\u2019s dead, he died a couple of years ago and\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWhy Joe Cartwright\u2026I can\u2019t believe my ears. What\u2019cha mean talkin\u2019 about ya Pa like that? Why Ben Cartwright\u2019s as much alive as me and you\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cBen Cartwright? Doc Martin? I\u2019m afraid I don\u2019t know what you\u2019re talking about, Ray\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cRoy\u2026not Ray\u2026its Roy Coffee, and I\u2019m the sheriff of Virginia City, Nevada. Joe\u2026don\u2019t ya remember who ya are, son?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

The man seemed quite concerned about the boy\u2019s state of mind and the fact bothered Michael, making him to doubt his own sanity.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cLook, mister, my name isn\u2019t Joe Cart\u2026whatever\u2026its Michael Landon and I was on my way to\u2026to\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Roy saw the young man gulp, as a puzzled looked came into his eyes.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2026I\u2026can\u2019t seem to remember where I was going,\u201d Mike stammered, glancing worriedly at the man in front of him.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Roy placed his hand on the younger man\u2019s shoulder. \u201cDon\u2019t ya worry yaself none Joe, ya jist come with me and I\u2019ll get ya home.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Roy pointed to his horse and once the troubled youngster started toward the animal, he followed along behind, being sure that the boy did not pass out a second time.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Roy mounted up and then offered his hand to the kid. Mike grasped hold of the man\u2019s hand and pulled himself up into the saddle, behind the stranger.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Once they were settled, Roy urged his mount forward. The pair rode along in silence for several long minutes before either ventured to say a word.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cAre you sure your name isn\u2019t Ray Teal?\u201d Mike asked at long last.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cNope\u2026dun told ya, it\u2019s Roy Coffee,\u201d the gentleman said over his shoulder.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cHmm\u2026\u201d murmured the man with the pounding headache. \u201cAnd you say my name is Joe Cart\u2026whatever?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cCartwright\u2026Joseph Francis Cartwright.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cFRANCIS? Who in hell would name a fella, Francis?\u201d Michael asked in a shocked tone.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYour ma and pa, that\u2019s who. And I might warn ya, Joe, ya better not let ya pa hear ya talkin\u2019 dirty like that. He don\u2019t set no store in filthy language, ya know,\u201d warned the sheriff.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWell, two things you need to get straight, I\u2019m not this guy, Joe Cartwright, and this Ben Cartwright dude, isn\u2019t my father and as for my mother\u2026don\u2019t even go there!\u201d Mike snapped, becoming slightly irritated at the man.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Suddenly the horse stopped and the man turned around as far as he could in the saddle and glared at the younger man.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cNow ya listen here\u2026I didn\u2019t know ya ma, but I know plenty who did and I\u2019m tellin\u2019 ya, she was as fine a lady as anyone\u2019s ever met\u2026ain\u2019t no need of ya to talk down about her! Ya jist better sit back there and keep ya mouth shut, boy. I\u2019m allowin\u2019 fer that knot on ya head fer the way ya\u2019s actin\u2019 but I warn ya\u2026anymore of that gibberish and I\u2019ll be takin\u2019 ya to jail \u2018stead of Doc Martin\u2019s. Ya understand?\u201d growled Roy.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

As he turned back around, Roy heard the soft sigh that the boy made. The ride back into town was a long, quiet ride. The young man had stopped talking, much to the sheriff\u2019s relief, though he worried about the kid\u2019s condition. From what he could make out, Joe couldn\u2019t seem to remember who he was or who his family was for that matter. And the strange things he talked about\u2026a car\u2026Roy had no idea what a car even was\u2026and how could he be driving it, without a horse?<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Roy determined to go straight out to the Ponderosa himself, just as soon as he dropped the boy at the doctor\u2019s office. Ben would want to know that Joe had been hurt and that he wasn\u2019t actin\u2019 jist right. He would make sure that Paul kept the boy there until he returned with Ben, and if Adam and Hoss were home, Roy was positive that they would accompany their father into town.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWhoa,\u201d Roy said as he pulled back on the reins. \u201cHere we are,\u201d he said over his shoulder as he offered his hand to the boy.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Michael took the offered hand and slid carefully to the ground. He swayed slightly and clutched the man\u2019s shoulder as Roy dismounted.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cEasy there, son,\u201d Roy said as he guided Joe toward the door of the doctor\u2019s office.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

As he reached for the knob, the door opened suddenly. \u201cRoy\u2026Joe\u2026what\u2019s happened? I saw you riding in and then I saw Little Joe about fall when he dismounted.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

The doctor slipped his arm about Mike\u2019s slim waist and led him to a table in the back room. \u201cTake is easy, Joe, up you go,\u201d he ordered as Michael crawled onto the table. \u201cNow, let\u2019s lay back.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019m riding out to the Ponderosa, keep him here until I get back with Ben. Joe\u2019s not acting his self, Doc, and he has a goose egg on his head,\u201d explained Roy as he headed for the door.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Mike stared at the doctor\u2019s kind face. \u201cHarry? Harry Holcombe?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cNo son, I\u2019m Doc Martin\u2026I don\u2019t know a Harry Holcombe\u2026is he a doctor, too?\u201d Paul questioned as he checked Mike\u2019s vital signs.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Mike pinched his lips tightly, refusing to say another word. \u201cDoesn\u2019t anyone around here, except for me, know who he is?\u2019 he fumed silently to himself.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Two hours later, the door to the doctor\u2019s office burst open, admitting a very concerned Ben Cartwright. Paul came from the back room as soon as he heard voices in the waiting room.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cBen\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cPaul\u2026how\u2019s Joe, can I see him? What\u2019s wrong with him, Roy said he was talking strange and he didn\u2019t know who he was and\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cBen, calm down!\u201d Paul said as he held his hand up to stop the questioning.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cJoe has taken a hard blow to the head and he is a little disoriented. He\u2019s going to be fine\u2026at least physically, but right now, he\u2019s having a little trouble remembering things,\u201d Paul explained.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cLike what?\u201d asked Adam who stood next to his father.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Paul frowned slightly. \u201cLike who he is and what he was doing when he hit his head. He doesn\u2019t know me, or Roy\u2026and he keeps repeating that his name is not Joe Cartwright, but some man named Michael Landon\u2026ever hear of him before?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cMichael Landon\u2026wasn\u2019t he that guy they caught over in Genoa for bank robbery?\u201d Hoss said, scratching his head.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cNaw, that was Mitchell Landerson, and he was wanted for murder,\u201d corrected Adam.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cPaul, are you sure Joe\u2019s going to be okay?\u201d Ben questioned.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cIn time, I don\u2019t think his injuries are permanent, Ben, though how much time, it\u2019s hard to tell with things such as this. I think if you take him home and make him stay in the bed and get plenty of rest, it might speed his recovery.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cSure, Paul, sure. Now, may we see him?\u201d Ben asked.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cOf course, though he\u2019s a bit groggy, he was getting a little too worked up so I gave him something to help him rest. He\u2019s in here,\u201d Paul opened the door to allow Joe\u2019s family to enter the room where Joe lay stretched out on the small bed.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

At the sound of the opening door, Michael raised his head. When he saw the three men enter he raised up on one elbow and smiled.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cLorne! Hey Dan, Pernell\u2026now maybe someone can tell me what the hell is going on here\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

The three men stopped in their tracks and turned to look at one another, with questions glazing their eyes.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cLorne\u2026hey, you guys, stop looking at me like that! Dan\u2026\u201d Mike swung his legs over the side of the bed and started to rise.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cOh no you don\u2019t,\u201d Adam said, gently forcing Joe back down.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cCut it out Pernell, this isn\u2019t funny!\u201d Mike said in a sharp voice.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cJoseph, you stay in that bed. The doctor said you should lie still for a bit and then we can go home,\u201d Ben explained as he seated himself on the edge of the bed.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cMy name is not JOE CARTWRIGHT!\u201d Michael shouted. He rubbed at his head that was still throbbing. \u201cWhy won\u2019t anyone listen to me?\u201d he muttered in a small voice.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cJoseph, you\u2019ve taken a hard hit to your head. I understand that you are confused and your head hurts, so I\u2019m going to let your attitude go for now, but please refrain from raising your voice to me again,\u201d Ben scolded in a serious voice.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Mike looked like he might cry, as he fought to control his quivering chin. \u201cBut my name is Michael Landon\u2026honest\u2026and you\u2019re Lorne Greene and that\u2019s Dan Blocker and he\u2019s Pernell Roberts and\u2026and\u2026I don\u2019t know what\u2019s wrong with everyone!\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben glanced up at his two sons and saw that they appeared just as worried about the boy as he was. He glanced back down at Joe who had closed his eyes. Tenderly, he brushed back at the stray curls that had plastered themselves to the boy\u2019s brow.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cTry to rest, son. Things will be better in the morning,\u201d Ben tried to comfort the distraught young man.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Mike\u2019s eyes grew wide as he stared at the man on the bed next to him. \u201cMorning? I can\u2019t stay here until morning\u2026my family\u2026my kids\u2026I have to go home, now!\u201d Michael tried to push himself up from the bed, but Ben stopped him.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cNow you stop that young man,\u201d he growled, \u201cor I\u2019ll have the doctor give you something to make you sleep for a week, do you understand?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Mike stopped suddenly and lowered himself back down against the bed. \u201cLorne, I can\u2019t believe you\u2019re talking to me like that. You\u2019re treating me like I was a child and I resent it,\u201d snapped Mike.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cThen stop acting like a child and I\u2019ll stop treating you like a child,\u201d Ben ordered firmly. \u201cNow close your eyes, and rest. I\u2019m going to speak with the doctor.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben rose from the bed and motioned with his eyes for Hoss to stay close to his brother. He signaled for Adam to follow him out into the waiting area with him.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Hoss pulled up a chair next to the bed and sat down. Mike opened his eyes, watching the big man\u2019s actions. Once seated, Hoss turned his full attention to his brother.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cDoes ya head still hurt, punkin?\u201d he asked in a kind voice.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cDan\u2026what\u2019s going on? I know who I am\u2026why don\u2019t you\u2026and Lorne and Pernell? Hell fire, even Ray thinks he’s some guy named Roy Coffee\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cListen, little buddy, don\u2019t fret ya self none about all that right now. Ya do as Pa says and close ya eyes and rest. We\u2019ll all go home in a while, soon as Pa\u2019s done talkin\u2019 to the doc.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cHome where?\u201d Mike was more confused than ever and he felt as if he were living in a true to life nightmare. It was as if he\u2019d been caught in a sci-fi flick and he couldn\u2019t find his way out.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cTo the ranch, Joe, the Ponderosa\u2026don\u2019t ya remember?\u201d stammered Hoss.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cAll I remember is waking up with a king sized goose egg on my head and some dude dressed up like a damn cowboy and everyone going around calling me Little Joe\u2026who the hell is Little Joe anyway?\u201d Mike said with a ring of sarcasm to his tone. \u201cI\u2019d sure like to meet this fellow\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cJoe, be quiet,\u201d Hoss demanded. \u201cYa ascarin\u2019 me, talkin\u2019 crazy like ya\u2019s doin\u2019,\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cScaring you\u2026what about me? How the hell do you think I feel? Everyone\u2019s trying to convince me I\u2019m somebody I\u2019m not and everyone I know, or thought I knew, is claiming to be someone else\u2026and I can\u2019t remember shit\u2026and YOU\u2019RE scare? Give me a break, Dan!\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben returned shortly to the back room. Michael had dozed off leaving Hoss sitting in his chair close by. When Ben opened the door and entered the little room Hoss stood to his feet and motioned for his father to be quiet. Ben eased over to the bed and gazed down at Joseph.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cHe finally went to sleep, Pa. He sure \u2018nough got himself all worked up over this,\u201d Hoss explained in a whispered voice.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWell, I suppose it\u2019s all strange to him, not knowing who he is or who we are, but Paul said he should be fine in a few days.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben sat down on the edge of the bed and watched the young man sleep. After several moments, he turned to Hoss. \u201cAdam\u2019s waiting outside with the buggy. I almost hate to wake Joe, he looks so peaceful,\u201d whispered Ben.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYeah, he sure does. He\u2019s been workin\u2019 so hard at breakin\u2019 those bronc\u2019s that he\u2019s plum wore out and that knot on his head sure didn\u2019t help \u2018em none,\u201d said Hoss.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI know, and I\u2019ve been talking to Paul about that, he says Joe is not to get on another bronc until he tells him he can.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cGuess Doc figures Joe\u2019s been dropped on his head too many times?\u201d Hoss snickered.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben turned dark eyes up at Hoss, glaring angrily at him. \u201cThat\u2019s not funny, Hoss, that\u2019s exactly what Paul thinks may have caused this\u2026this\u2026lapse in memory!\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cSorry, Pa\u2026I was only funnin\u2019 ya some\u2026I didn\u2019t mean nuthin\u2019 by it, honest,\u201d Hoss apologized.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben\u2019s anger swiftly vanished and he smiled at his middle son. \u201cIt\u2019s alright, son\u2026I didn\u2019t mean to snap at you, it\u2019s just that I\u2019m very worried about your brother.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben turned his attention to Joe. \u201cJoe\u2026son\u2026Joseph\u2026wake up now, it\u2019s time to go home,\u201d Ben said as he gently shook the young man\u2019s shoulder.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cJoseph\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cOh\u2026my head,\u201d muttered Mike, opening his eyes and seeing the man who claimed his name was Ben and not Lorne, leaning over him.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben smiled. \u201cYou ready to go home now, young man?\u201d he asked kindly as Mike raised up into a sitting position.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cHome? Yeah\u2026I need to get home\u2026my family\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cIt\u2019s all right son, your family is all here\u2026\u201d began Ben.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cHere? Lynn\u2019s here\u2026good, I need to explain to her about the car\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cNo son, not Lynn, whomever she might be. I was meaning your brothers, Adam and Hoss, here.\u201d Ben pointed at Hoss who stood waiting for them.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Michael squinted his eyes at Hoss and then pointed at the big man.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cDon\u2019t you mean Dan?\u201d stammered Mike once more trying to trick the man into making a slip up on the joke they were playing on him. It was growing old\u2026this practical joke they were all playing\u2026trying to make him think he\u2019d lost his mind. Yeah, that\u2019s what they were doing\u2026but they were taking it too far, he was beginning to think that he had lost his mind.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben looped his arm through Joe\u2019s and helped the boy to his feet. He glanced quickly at Hoss and then back at Joe. \u201cNo, I mean Hoss\u2026your brother\u2026Hoss Cartwright,\u201d explained Ben.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cBut\u2026he\u2019s not my bro\u2026oh hell, what\u2019s the use!\u201d Mike grumbled.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cListen here young man,\u201d Ben snapped as he forced Joe around to face him, \u201cI\u2019ve had just about enough of that filthy talking. I have no idea where you picked that kind of language up, but I\u2019m warning you Joseph, enough is enough, do you understand?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Mike looked as if he were about to make a smart retort, but something about the way the dark eyed man was glaring at him, caused him to hold his tongue. His head still hurt from the goose egg, he was tired and confused and more than a little frightened at what had happened to him, and really had no fight left in him.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYessir,\u201d he muttered. \u201cI\u2019m sorry sir, it won\u2019t happen again,\u201d Michael said.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

He suddenly felt as if he were actually standing before his father apologizing for real and the strange feeling only added to his ever growing fear.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cAll right then, son, let\u2019s get you home, and into your own bed. Hop Sing will have supper ready by the time we get there and then you can eat and go straight up to bed.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Michael knew he must have had a strange look on his face, for Lorne or Ben or whomever the hell\u2026oops\u2026whomever the man might be, was looking at him with a concerned look on his face, as if he was expected to say something. But what\u2026pondered Mike.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cOh good, I\u2019m getting hungry\u2026\u201d he stammered, but his answer must have pleased the gentleman, for he smiled kindly at him.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam drove the buggy, but had little to say as they made their way to this placed called the Ponderosa. Michael wondered at the man\u2019s silence. He hoped that he had not said anything to offend Pernell, sometimes it was hard to figure out just what Pernell was thinking; he was such a strange one at times, always so solemn, rarely laughing. He was a private man who would rather stay to himself as to socialize with the rest of them. Mike absentmindedly rubbed gently at the tender spot on the side of his brow.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cMind if I ask you something?\u201d Mike ventured to say at last.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam glanced over at his youngest brother, glad to know that he was looking a bit better. \u201cNaw, I don\u2019t mind, ask away.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWell\u2026this may sound sort of, off the wall\u2026\u201d Mike began.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cOff the wall? What the hell does that mean?\u201d Adam quizzed his little brother.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cHey\u2026you better not let the old man hear you cuss like that\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam\u2019s eyes grew dark and when he turned them on Joe, Mike drew back, startled by the depth of the man\u2019s piercing eyes.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWh\u2026what?\u201d Michael stammered.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cOld man? I don\u2019t think I\u2019d be letting our father hear you refer to him as \u2018the old man\u2019,\u201d Adam advised. \u201cHe might just be tempted to take a strap to your backside.\u201d Adam smiled slightly, remembering other times that Ben had used the strap on the little scamp. The memory of Joe\u2019s wailing broadened his smile.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cHe wouldn\u2019t dare! I\u2019m a grown man\u2026not some snot-nosed kid that needs\u2026hey\u2026wait just a damn minute\u2026how come you can cuss, but I can\u2019t?\u201d demanded Joe as he glanced around to be sure that Lorne, who was ridding slightly behind the buggy, hadn\u2019t overheard their conversation.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cBecause, little brother,\u201d laughed Adam, \u201cI\u2019m a man, and you\u2019re still a kid\u2026or at least to our father, you\u2019re still a kid,\u201d Adam laughed again after seeing the flash of anger fill Joe\u2019s eyes.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Michael sighed deeply and turned away. \u201cI ain\u2019t no kid,\u201d he murmured softly to himself, feeling as if he had said that at sometime or other, but couldn\u2019t remember the time, or the place.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

The buggy came to a stop in front a massive log home.\u00a0\u00a0 Michael craned his neck in all directions trying to take in the whole scene. The house was beautiful, a bit old fashion for his modern day taste, but the house had a warm inviting look about it that appealed to a certain side of the celebrity.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWhat place is this?\u201d he turned to Pernell and asked.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam stood speechless beside the buggy, watching his brother climb slowly from the carriage.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cHome.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cHome? Who\u2019s home?\u201d Michael asked as he rubbed his head gently.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYours\u2026mine\u2026theirs,\u201d Adam said pointing to his father and Hoss who were dismounting.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cThis isn\u2019t my home, I live in Malibu\u2026close to the ocean and\u2026\u201d Mike paused, feeling suddenly lost and out of place as the three men who claimed to be his family stared in disbelief at him.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cNever mind,\u201d sighed Mike. \u201cJust point me to my room, I\u2019m beat and I\u2019d like to take a nap\u2026if that\u2019s permitted?\u201d he added as he turned to Lorne.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cOf course you can take a nap, son, if you don\u2019t feel well,\u201d Ben told his son.<\/p>\n

\u201cI don\u2019t feel well\u2026you can trust me on that one\u2026I feel like shi\u2026ere\u2026crap\u2026ere\u2026I just don\u2019t feel well\u2026that\u2019s all,\u201d stammered Mike as he hastened his pace toward the front door.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Hoss pushed the door opened and stepped back to allow Joe to enter the house first. Mike stepped through the doorway and paused, taking in the splendor of the rooms in front of him.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWow\u2026this place sure is something,\u201d he chirped.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cGo on in, son,\u201d Ben said, smiling at the pleased look on Little Joe\u2019s face. He was thinking that now that he had Joe home, the boy might start remembering more about his life and his family.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cLorne\u2026ere\u2026Ben…Mr. Cartwright\u2026\u201d the worried look reappeared in Mike\u2019s eyes as he turned to look at the man with the silver hair. \u201cPa\u2026\u201d he forced himself to say. \u201cThis house is\u2026is\u2026so\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cFamiliar?\u201d Hoss butted in to say.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Michael turned to the big man. \u201cNo\u2026I wish it were though, Dan\u2026ere\u2026Hoss, I can almost get the feeling that I\u2019ve been here before.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben hurried to his son and grasped Joe\u2019s shoulders. \u201cJoseph, that\u2019s wonderful, son. I knew bringing you home would have a positive affect on you. Now, are you hungry, son? Or would you rather go on up and take a nap before dinner?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI could use something to eat\u2026you know I never eat breakfast, and I almost always skip lunch\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cNever eat breakfast? Aw\u2026come on Little Joe, ya know most of the time ya the first one to the breakfast table\u2026\u201d Hoss snickered.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cNo, really\u2026Dan, you know I hate eating breakfast\u2026\u201d the feelings of frustrations were beginning to overwhelm the younger man and it plainly showed on his face. \u201cWhy don\u2019t any of you believe me? What\u2019s happened to me\u2026to the three of you?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cJoe\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cMY NAME\u2019S NOT JOE\u2026IT\u2019S MIKE\u2026MICHAEL LANDON AND I AM NOT A KID\u2026AND I CAN CUSS ANY DAMN TIME I WANT TO\u2026HELL, DAMN, SH\u2014,\u201d yelled Michael as he stomped across the floor to the bottom of the steps. He stopped suddenly, looking upward and then clutched the railing, lowering his head to rest on his arm.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben heard the sob that escaped from his son\u2019s mouth. He rested his hand gently on the trembling shoulders.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Mike turned his head just enough to see the older man\u2019s face. \u201cI don\u2019t even know which room is mine,\u201d he muttered softly.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cIt\u2019s all right, son, I\u2019ll show you.\u201d Tenderly, Ben wrapped his arm about the boy\u2019s slender waist and guided him up the stairs.\u00a0\u00a0 \u201cIt\u2019s the first room on the right,\u201d Ben said with compassion as he opened the door and led Joe inside.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben pointed to the bed, where Mike slowly sat down and waited as the man he knew as Lorne dug through the chest of drawers. When Lorne turned around to face him, he had an old fashion nightshirt in his hand that he held out to Mike.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYou don\u2019t really expect me to put that thing on, do you?\u201d Mike asked hesitantly.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cIt gets cold here, in the mountains, at night. I wish you would wear it.\u201d Ben was trying hard to keep his patience with the boy. He realized that Joe had gone through quite a lot today and was still uncertain of who he was or where he was.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI usually don\u2019t sleep in anything but my shorts,\u201d Michael said softly.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben pondered the word. \u201cShorts?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYeah\u2026you know\u2026underwear\u2026briefs\u2026boxers\u2026Fruit of the Loom\u2026how about Calvin Kline?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cNo\u2026I\u2019m sorry son, I can\u2019t say that I\u2019ve met him\u2026I understand that you said he was short\u2026but surely you aren\u2019t suggesting that you\u2026um\u2026sleep\u2026with him?\u201d stuttered Ben, shocked at the idea.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Michael took a deep breath, puffing out his cheeks and then blew it out between puckered lips. \u201cJust give me that thing, I\u2019ll wear it,\u201d he said at last, reaching for the garment that Ben held in his hands.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben handed the nightshirt to Joe and then turned to go. He paused at the door, \u201cIf you need anything, I\u2019ll just be across the hall.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Michael had removed his shirt and tossed it into the chair. He slipped the stripped cotton gown over his head before answering Lorne\u2019s comment.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cThanks\u2026Pa,\u201d he said, watching Lorne\u2019s reactions closely.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

He had no inkling as to what was happening to him, but he figured that he might as well go along with their game. Mike had an idea that it was all some kind of big joke anyway\u2026he knew Dan was a big jokester and wouldn\u2019t put something like this pass him, or Lorne either for that matter, though Lorne could rarely be pulled into such a scheme.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Michael was rewarded with a warm smile from Lorne\u2026Ben\u2026or whatever the gentleman insisted his name was.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cHave a good sleep son, and don\u2019t worry about doing your chores in the morning, I think Hoss and Adam won\u2019t mind doing them for a couple of days. The doctor said you should stay in bed for a few days anyway, so sleep as late as you like Joseph\u2026good night, son.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Michael could not deny the man\u2019s graciousness, and he returned the smile. \u201cThank you\u2026for everything,\u201d he called as Ben closed the door to his son\u2019s room.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

The minute that the door was closed, Mike felt the tension leave his body. Slowly he began to relax and soon he snuggled down into the warmth of the goose-down mattress and pillows. Within minutes of finding a comfortable position, Michael drifted into a deep, soothing slumber.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

The next morning, Michael woke with a start, bolting up right in the bed. He glanced around, suddenly remembering that the day before had sent him catapulting into a strange and different world from which he was accustomed.\u00a0\u00a0 Mike tossed back the blankets, groaning loudly as he spied the red striped nightshirt that had crept upward, revealing his red silk speedos. The sound of approaching footsteps caused him to jump from the bed, quickly pulling the long nightshirt downward.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

A soft rap sounded at the door and then the door was pushed opened. Michael stood face to face with the silver-hair man who claimed to be his father.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWell, good morning,\u201d smiled Ben to his son.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cMorning,\u201d mumbled Mike.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI brought you some coffee,\u201d Ben said as he sat the tray on the table next to the bed.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Michael had not moved, but remained standing barefooted in the middle of the floor, following Lorne around the room with his eyes.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cHop Sing will bring you some clean clothes shortly,\u201d Ben said as he picked up the shirt that Joe had been wearing the day before and holding it up, staring at it.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cSon, where on earth did you buy this thing? I\u2019ve never seen you wear paisleys before,\u201d muttered Ben as he tossed the shirt back down onto the chair. \u201cWell, never mind, it\u2019s dirty and torn and for sure it wouldn\u2019t do for a days work on a ranch such as the Ponderosa.\u201d Ben turned to Joe and smiled. \u201cI\u2019ll have Hop Sing toss it into the garbage, it feels like silk and wouldn\u2019t even make a good rag,\u201d Ben laughed lightly.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cHey\u2026\u201d barked Mike, grabbing the shirt and clinging to it. \u201cThis shirt cost me nearly seventy-five dollars!\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben stared at his son, not fully comprehending what Joe was saying. He actually thought his son was making a joke.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWell, I say if you paid that much for one shirt, you have a lot to learn about managing money, young man. Now, the doctor said you were suppose to stay in bed for a few days, but as usual, I see you have no intentions of doing what you were told. So, when you get dressed, please come downstairs, there\u2019s a few matters I\u2019d like to discuss with you,\u201d Ben issued his orders in a gentle manner.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

He could see that his youngest son was already, at this early hour of morning, becoming upset and he dared not push too hard for Joe to stay in the bed. The last thing he wanted was another confrontation with the boy, especially in his present state of mind.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019ll wait for you at the breakfast table, son,\u201d Ben said and slipped out the door and was gone before Mike could say a word.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Hop Sing padded into the room just then and laid a small pile of folded laundry on the foot of Joe\u2019s bed. Hop Sing nodded his head at the young man and then, without a word, moved to leave.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cVictor\u2026wait a minute,\u201d Mike called before the little Chinaman could leave.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Hop Sing looked puzzled and pointed to himself. \u201cMe? My name not Victor\u2026my name Hop Sing!\u201d he smiled at Joe.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Mike moved closer to the man. \u201cNo\u2026No\u2026your name is Victor Sen Yung\u2026and\u2026and\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cNo\u2026name Hop Sing and I faithful servant of Mr. Ben Car\u2019lite,\u201d smiled Hop Sing as he bobbed his head up and down.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cNO! IT\u2019S VICTOR\u2026AND\u2026AND\u2026YOU\u2019RE IN ON THIS DAMN JOKE, TOO AREN\u2019T YOU?\u201d Michael bellowed.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Hop Sing refused to let the distraught boy upset him so he smiled at Joe. \u201cName not Victor, name Hop Sing and not know what you mean\u2026joke\u2026\u201d Hop Sing began muttering in his native tongue as he turned to leave.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Mike stomped his foot in frustration. \u201cDamnit!\u201d he snarled with a tone that sounded very much like a little boy.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Michael approached the table slowly. He saw Dan and Pernell sitting at the table with Lorne and when they heard his footsteps, all three looked up at him.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cMorin\u2019 Short Shanks,\u201d smiled Hoss.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cGood morning, little brother, how\u2019s your noggin?\u201d Adam smiled as he sipped his coffee that he had poured into the saucer.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Mike slipped into the only chair available and unfolded his napkin. He gave Pernell a weak smile and pressed the sore spot on his head gently.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cJust a little sore right here, when you mash it,\u201d Mike said, glancing around the table at all of the food.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

He hated breakfast\u2026they knew that\u2026yet each one of them held out a platter expecting him to take something from each. He gulped, knowing that he\u2019d have to force himself to eat a little something, or listen to this man on his left carry on about his eating habits. Lorne was always grumbling at him as it was, and now that the poor misguided man believe he was his father, Mike had no doubt that he\u2019d receive a stern lecture. He planned on making the day easy for himself and just go along with their joke. Maybe if they see he\u2019s given up trying to convince them he wasn\u2019t this Joe Cartwright fellow, they\u2019d get bored with the whole thing and admit they were trying to trick him.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cThanks,\u201d Michael said to Pernell as he took the platter of scrambled eggs and served himself.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cThanks,\u201d he repeated as he spooned the fried potatoes onto his plate and then sat the platter down.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

From the platter in his father\u2019s hand, Mike took a slice of toast. \u201cThanks, Pa,\u201d he muttered, surprised at how easy the word Pa, slipped from his mouth.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

He smiled at the man, Lorne had always been someone to whom he had been able to look up to, even now, Michael could see the concern in the man\u2019s chocolate eyes. So what if Lorne wanted to be his father? It was for certain that over the last several years, especially since his real father had passed, Lorne had always been there for him, as a father figure. And seeing as how he and his real father hadn\u2019t really gotten along too well, except for the last couple of years of his father\u2019s life, it was nice to have someone like Lorne whom Michael knew really cared deeply for him.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben returned the smile, glad to see that his son was making an effort to reestablish himself within the family. He knew it was hard on the boy, Joe was never one to take things at face value without first trying to figure all angles.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Somehow Mike managed to eat his breakfast. It wasn\u2019t as bad as he first thought it might be and even had to admit to himself that he felt a little better than on most mornings when he skipped breakfast. Hoss and Adam excused themselves from the table, saying that they had chores to do and would see him later, when they finished with the work.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cTake care Punkin,\u201d Hoss said merrily, squeezing Joe\u2019s shoulder as he ambled passed toward the door to collect his hat and gunbelt.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cDon\u2019t be too hard on him, Pa,\u201d Adam said in a joking manner. \u201cSee ya tonight, kid,\u201d he said to Joe.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cSee ya,\u201d Michael called out.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Once they were gone, he turned to Lorne, feeling a little unsure of himself, a trait that Michael Landon was not used to. \u201cDoes he always call me kid?\u201d he asked, glancing sideways at his supposed father.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben chuckled, \u201cAlways\u2026and probably just to irritate you,\u201d he said smiling.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019m not surprised at all\u2026Per\u2026Adam\u2019s good at doing that to me, isn\u2019t he?\u201d Michael said as he sipped his coffee.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cAre you remembering that, or just supposing?\u201d Ben couldn\u2019t help but hope that Adam\u2019s statement jarred something in his youngest son\u2019s memory.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cSupposing, I suppose,\u201d Michael said with a bit of sadness to his voice. He heard Lorne sigh deeply.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWell, never mind for now, son. In time, I reckon everything will come back to you,\u201d Ben said. He smiled encouragingly to his son.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Mike sat the cup he was holding down and faced the man at the end of the table. \u201cCan I ask you something? And will you be honest with me?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cJoseph, you know perfectly well, you can ask me anything, I\u2019m your father. And have I ever lied to you before?\u201d Ben said as he placed his hand on Joe\u2019s arm and gently squeezed.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Mike fought against the tears that threatened to fill his eyes. How would he know if this man had ever lied to him? As Lorne, no, he had never lied to him, or not so he knew, but as his father\u2026Michael honestly didn\u2019t know. He was so confused!<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI don\u2019t know\u2026I mean\u2026hell\u2026oops, I\u2019m sorry sir, but it\u2019s all so frustrating, not knowing who I really am, or who you are. I don\u2019t know if you\u2019ve ever lied to me or not. I hope not\u2026and knowing you as you are as Ben Cartwright\u2026my father\u2026I don\u2019t believe you are the kind of man who would lie to a son, if that\u2019s what I really am\u2026your son, I mean,\u201d Mike tried to explain.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI have never lied to you Joseph, I give you my word on that,\u201d Ben said seriously as he watched the young man trying hard to control his emotions.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cThen\u2026you really are my father\u2026I mean\u2026I\u2019m not sure what\u2019s happening to me. I feel so\u2026so\u2026alone, I miss my wife and my kids\u2026and to be completely honest with you\u2026I\u2019m more than a little scared,\u201d confessed Michael.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben got out of his chair and came around the corner of the table and grasped Joe by his shoulders, forcing the boy to stand up. He clutched tightly to the lad, feeling the tremors that surged through his son\u2019s body.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019m not sure what you are referring to son, your wife\u2026your kids\u2026I don\u2019t understand that at all. But what I do understand is that you are my son, and I love you deeply. I want you to always remember that, Joseph, and I want you to know that for however long it takes for you to start remembering things, I\u2019ll always be here for you. I know you are frightened, so am I\u2026but we\u2019ll get through this\u2026together\u2026I promise you,\u201d Ben said softly as he pulled his son into an embrace.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Michael, drained from all that had happened to him, and needing physical contact from someone who loved him, allowed Lorne to pull him into a hug. He felt his arms move, as if they had a will of their own, around Lorne\u2019s body, embracing him as well. Moved by the flow of love he felt from this man\u2019s heart, Michael rested his head against Lorne\u2019s shoulder and kept it there for several long moments.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cThank you,\u201d he whispered at last, pulling away.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben raised his hand and brushed at the long wild curls that lay over Joe\u2019s forehead. \u201cYou need a haircut, son\u2026you\u2019re beginning to look like a riverboat gambler,\u201d smiled Ben.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Michael could do nothing to stop his high-pitched, infamous giggle from bursting forth.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben laughed as well, \u201cIt\u2019s good to hear you laughing again, son.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Mike sobered only slightly, \u201cWell, Pa,\u201d he said, emphasizing the word, \u201cI\u2019ve been called a lot of names in my time, but nothing that compares to a \u2018riverboat gambler\u2019,\u201d laughed Mike, surprised as how relieved he suddenly felt.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

It was something about this Lorne, who believed himself to be Ben Cartwright, and the way that he expressed himself. Mike found himself relaxing and enjoying being in the man\u2019s company. It was as if for the first time in his life, he connected with someone, and Ben or Lorne or whatever the man called himself, Michael found himself drawn to the man.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Several days had passed since Mike\u2019s accident, though he was no closer to getting answers to his troubling questions, he had settled himself into a routine with this family that claimed him as theirs. It wasn\u2019t so bad, Mike had decided, he liked all the attention he was receiving, and he had to admit, that the slower pace of life that he had begun living and the fresh mountain air and good cooking had left it\u2019s mark on him. He felt better than he had in years and had even come to realize that the life he now lived was one in which he had always envisioned himself as living. For the first time ever, Michael felt contentment in his soul that he had never known, and he found himself enjoying just being alive.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cCome on, Joe, you can ride him,\u201d encouraged Hoss as he backed Cochise from his stall.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cNO! I hate riding horses\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cAw\u2026Joe\u2026ya know that ain\u2019t so, \u2018sides, ole Cochise here needs some exercisin\u2019. He ain\u2019t been ridden since\u2026since before ya bumped ya head\u2026and he needs to run,\u201d Hoss said as he began saddling the horse for Joe.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cThen you take him for a run\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

Hoss burst into laughter. \u201cNow ya know I cain\u2019t do no such athing, little brother, why, I\u2019d break Cooch\u2019s back if\u2019n I was ta climb up on him.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Michael, seeing the logic in Dan\u2019s statement, laughed as well. \u201cGuess you\u2019re right Hoss,\u201d he said as he followed the man and horse from the barn. He had given no thought to the fact that he had just called his friend Hoss, for it seemed natural to do so.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cAlright, mount up,\u201d Hoss said, turning Cochise around so that Joe could mount on the correct side. He snickered when he saw his little brother gulp. \u201cDon\u2019t tell me, ya dun forgot how to ride?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI ain\u2019t forgot\u2026I just don\u2019t like to, that\u2019s all,\u201d proclaimed Michael. \u201cI\u2019d rather be sitting behind the wheel of a new sports car,\u201d he grumbled under his breath as he placed his foot into the stirrup.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWHOA!\u201d Mike squealed when Cochise tried to bolt into a run. Mike pulled back on the reins sharply, \u201cWhoa\u2026I said, whoa\u2026you son-of-a-\u2026.\u201d The horse jerked around in a circle, just in time for Michael to see Ben Cartwright standing with his hands on his hips, watching him.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Mike finally managed to get the horse under control and then smiled sheepishly at Lorne. \u201cI wasn\u2019t really gonna say it, Pa\u2026really.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cIt\u2019s a good thing,\u201d Ben said in a threatening tone, and then surprised the boy by smiling at him. \u201cEnjoy your ride son, but please be careful\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYeah, don\u2019t fall off and hit ya head\u2026again,\u201d teased Adam who had joined them.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019ll do my best not to\u2026\u201d Michael grinned.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

He nudged the horse with the heel of his boots and at once, Cochise broke into a run.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cJOSEPH!\u201d shouted Ben but to no avail. The young man and his horse were gone.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Several hours later, Michael rode slowly into the yard. Adam and Hoss were coming from the barn and Ben, who had been sitting on the side porch working on his books, laid aside his pencil and hurried across the yard.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cJoseph\u2026are you all right, son?\u201d Ben asked with concern as he waited while Joe literally slid down the side of his saddle and practically crumbled at the horse\u2019s feet.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWhat happened?\u201d questioned the concerned father.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Michael turned to face Lorne. His face was smeared with dirt, the pocket on his green jacket was ripped and his hat sat sideways on his head. He gulped and then scrunched up his face.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cThis\u2026this\u2026animal has no concept of what whoa means! He\u2019s been moving in fast gear since we left the yard this morning!\u201d Joe was wobbling on his feet as he pointed to the ground. \u201cIf I told him once to whoa\u2026I told the son-of-a- bi\u2026biscuit-eater to WHOA and hundred times and still the\u2026the\u2026s-o-b kept running! My butt hurts so damn bad\u2026oh, sorry Pa\u2026but I don\u2019t reckon I\u2019ll be able to sit for a week!\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Michael looked up at the strange sounds that his friends were making and made a face at them. \u201cWhat\u2019s so dadburn funny?\u201d he growled at them.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cNothing,\u201d Adam said quickly and then sobered.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cNary a thing, Little Joe,\u201d Hoss snickered.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cAll right you two, that\u2019s enough, can\u2019t you see that your brother is\u2026um\u2026uncomfortable?\u201d Ben said as he fought to keep his smile at bay. \u201cCome with me Joseph, I think I can find some liniment for your aching\u2026behind,\u201d Ben said, releasing his smile at last.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

He gently placed his hand around his son\u2019s shoulder and led him to the house. The concerned father glanced over his shoulder at Adam and Hoss who had their heads bent close together, giggling.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cTake care of your brother\u2019s horse for him, please,\u201d Ben ordered as he trailed along with Joe.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

For whatever reasons, Michael liked the way that his father\u2026Lorne\u2026cared for him. He wasn\u2019t prepared however when, once in his room, Lorne ordered him to drop his pants and then placed the bottle of liniment in his hand.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cRub it all over your butt, Joe. It might sting at first, but it will make you feel better,\u201d Ben said, trying once more not to smile at the shocked look on his son\u2019s face. \u201cUnless you\u2019d rather I do it for you?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cNO\u2026Nosir,\u201d Michael was fast to reply. Some things he didn\u2019t mind the kind-hearted man to do for him, but this\u2026well\u2026he could do for himself. \u201cUm\u2026if you\u2019ll excuse me?\u201d stammered Michael.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cOh\u2026yes, of course, I\u2019ll wait for you downstairs,\u201d Ben said, tripping over his words in his haste to leave the room.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Michael took care of his business and using caution, pulled his trousers up around his waist. He stopped and stared at his reflection in the mirror as he passed by. Mike could not help but notice his red cheeks, either caused by the warm summer sun or from the wind that whipped at his face when he was out riding. Whatever the cause, the high color gave his face more of a rugged look that appealed to the young man, yet another reason to enjoy the new life he had found.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI think Joseph should wait before doing as you suggested, Adam,\u201d declared Ben from his chair where he sat reading the paper and smoking his pipe.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWait for what?\u201d Michael called from the landing on the stairs. \u201cWhat have you volunteered me for this time, big brother?\u201d he continued as he slowly descended the steps. Mike moved to the settee and being careful of his sore backside, lowered himself easily onto the cushion.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cAdam thinks it\u2019s about time you went back to work,\u201d Ben stated, eyeing his son\u2019s deliberate movements over the top of his paper.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWork? Oh, I wouldn\u2019t mind\u2026\u201d began Mike but stopped when Adam interrupted.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cGood, there is a new string of mustangs that need breaking, you can start first thing in the morning,\u201d Adam grinned.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cMustangs? You mean\u2026wild horses\u2026you want me to\u2026break them\u2026but\u2026but\u2026\u201d Mike stuttered.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cBut nothing, you\u2019ve laid around here long enough Joe, it\u2019s time you went back to work, and we all know that you pride yourself with breaking horses, so\u2026the job\u2019s all yours,\u201d Adam said as he rose from his chair. \u201cNow, I think I\u2019ll go out to the kitchen and see what I can find to snack on!\u201d he declared with a smug look.<\/p>\n

Mike glanced up at Pernell as he headed off for the kitchen. When Pernell\u2019s back was turned and Mike was sure that he wouldn\u2019t be seen, he made a face, which caused both Ben and Hoss to burst into laughter.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cSon,\u201d Ben said when he could control himself. \u201cIf you feel you\u2019re not up to it\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cOh no\u2026my butt might hurt, but I\u2019ll ride everyone of those nags, even if it means breaking my fool neck! Ole Adam won\u2019t get the last laugh on me!\u201d Mike jumped to his feet and then cringed at the uncomfortable feeling in his tush. He rubbed gently at it and then headed back upstairs.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI better get some sleep if I\u2019m to\u2026break horses\u2026I can\u2019t believe I let myself be talked into this,\u201d he muttered to himself. \u201cNight Pa\u2026night Hoss,\u201d he called.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cGood night son.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cNight Short Shanks.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cPa, ya noticed how Joe\u2019s changin\u2019?\u201d Hoss said after he was sure Joe could not hear him. \u201cI mean, when he first hit his head, he ranted and raved about not bein\u2019 who he was, claimin\u2019 to be who he ain\u2019t. Now, most of the time, he talks to us like he used to\u2026like he really believes he is family.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYes, I\u2019ve noticed it as well, though he doesn\u2019t seem to know much about how a ranch is run,\u201d Ben said thoughtfully. \u201cIt\u2019s like he\u2019s a little boy, all over again, and learning for the first time. You should have seen his face earlier when I told him it was his turn to muck out the stalls.\u201d Ben snickered, \u201cHe had his nose so scrunched up I thought it would take Hop Sing\u2019s heavy iron to press out the wrinkles!\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Hoss laughed along with his father. \u201cMakes no never mind, Pa. I\u2019ll teach him\u2026for as long as it takes, it\u2019s just good to have the kid back.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYes, I\u2019ve missed by little boy.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

The next morning, Michael was down at the corrals bright and early. He had gotten there just before dawn, just to look at the horses that he was to start breaking. He felt knots wad up in his stomach as he eyed the horses that milled around on the opposite side of the fence. They looked about as frightened of him as Mike was of them and he wasn\u2019t completely sure that he wanted to prove himself to his older brother. Mike leaned his head against the middle railing of the fence and snickered to himself. Funny how three weeks time had changed how he viewed his would be family. In the beginning, Pernell was just Pernell Roberts, his friend, now, thinking as he was, he felt that they were indeed brothers. He had to give credit where credit was due, Pernell\u2026Adam\u2026had treated him better than some members of his own family. And it was for certain that Lorne\u2026Pa\u2026had treated him more like a son than his own father ever had, and better than some fathers he knew, treated their sons. Then there was Hoss, a steady and constant reminder what it was like to have a brother, one who would willingly and without hesitation, lay down his life of you.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Mike pondered all these things as he leaned against the fence. Could it all really be a dream\u2026had he truly hit his head and awakened to a world so different from his own? It seemed like a dream, but which of his two lives was real and which one was the dream world? Mike wondered if he would ever know for sure. He still had vague memories of the woman he professed to love and the two children who waited anxiously at the door each night as he pulled into the driveway, and he loved all of them. But he had come to love this family of men who accepted him for himself and not for who he was or for what he could buy for them. It was a strange feeling, and Mike wasn\u2019t too sure that he wanted to return to the world that he thought he knew.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cReady to ride?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

His two brothers interrupted his thoughts as they joined him.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cDecide which one you wanted to try first?\u201d Adam asked as he slung the saddle across the top rail of the fence.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019d try that little sorrel filly, if\u2019n I was you, Joe. She doesn\u2019t seem quite as nervous as the others, be a good one for ya to get the feel of things,\u201d Hoss advised.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cOkay with me, have the boys throw a saddle on her,\u201d Mike said as he pulled his hat down tightly on his head. \u201cWell, here goes nothing,\u201d he chirped as he strolled over to the pen where the boys were saddling the wild mustang.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Their father joined Adam and Hoss at the fence and together, the three watched as Little Joe was bucked from the horse\u2019s back time after time. They smiled at him each time that he got to his feet and dusted off his pants, turning to grin at them.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYa gotta give the kid credit, he\u2019s got gumption, how many times that make now Adam?\u201d Hoss said, as he tried counting on his fingers.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cTen\u2026oops\u2026eleven,\u201d laughed Adam. \u201cBut she\u2019s wearing down\u2026hey look\u2026Joe won this one!\u201d shouted Adam, pointing to his younger brother as Joe slid from the horse\u2019s back.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cHey\u2026good ride Joe!\u201d Adam congratulated his brother.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Michael climbed up on the railing of the fence and turned to sit on the top one. \u201cThanks, Adam,\u201d Mike smiled. \u201cI think I\u2019ve got the hang of this now\u2026Hey Pete, saddle up another,\u201d Mike called to one of the hands.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cSure \u2018nough, Joe\u2026anytime you\u2019re ready!\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWell, lets see what I can do with that big stallion,\u201d Michael called over his shoulder as he slowly made his way to the pen.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cJoseph, you be careful, son\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

His words were lost to the wind as the stallion tore from the pen and raced across the corral. Hooves were pawing at the air as the big animal bucked first to the right and then to the left. Mike hung on as if his life depended on it, determined to ride the stallion. He felt charged as the adrenaline pumped through his veins. And then, suddenly he felt his body leaving the horses back and flying through the air. With a loud thud that brought his family racing toward him, Mike hit the ground. The wind was knocked from his lungs as he lay on his back staring up at the sky. Before his eyes, tiny little birds hovered and then fluttering their wings, disappeared. Mike pinched his eyes tightly against the pain that jarred his body. He tried to rise, and then felt caring hands helping him to his feet.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cAre you all right, Joseph?\u201d he heard his father ask.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYeah\u2026I just had the wind knocked out of my lungs that\u2019s all,\u201d he said, forcing himself to smile.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cThat\u2019s enough for today,\u201d ordered Ben.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cAw\u2026no, I can ride him\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI said no, and that\u2019s what I mean,\u201d grumbled Ben. He had been petrified when he saw Joe flying into the air and more so when he heard his son\u2019s body hit the hard packed earth.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019ll take this one, Joe. I\u2019ll save the black for you,\u201d offered Adam.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cOh, you think you can ride this one?\u201d laughed Mike as he claimed his spot on the fence. \u201cI\u2019ve got five dollars says you can\u2019t go the limit!\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cTsk, tsk, tsk, I hate taking your money little brother, but you\u2019ve got yourself a bet!\u201d laughed Adam.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cHoss, how about it, you in?\u201d Michael offered.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYeah, I got five to go along with Joe\u2019s. Get a move on Adam, me and Joe\u2019s awantin\u2019 to go into town tonight and since ya gonna lose, we\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cDon\u2019t buy those beers just yet Hoss\u2026I might just surprise both of you!\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam climbed into the pen and mounted the stallion\u2019s back. Even before the horse was freed from the tight confinements of the pen, he started bucking. The second that the gate was pulled wide, the horse rose into the air and landed with a pounding sound to the ground. Again and again the horse bucked, and twisted around. Adam held on tightly, being tossed from one side of the animal\u2019s back to the other side. It wasn\u2019t long before the animal began to tire and his bucking seemed only half hearted until at last the bucking stopped altogether.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Laughing, Adam slid from the saddle and made his way over to his brothers. His outstretched hand waved before him, and as Hoss and Michael begrudgingly placed their money into Adam\u2019s hand Adam\u2019s laughter could be heard across the corral.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cGood ride, Adam,\u201d Hoss said.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYeah\u2026but you only rode\u2019em cause I wore him down for you!\u201d teased Michael.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cSure you did, kid, sure you did,\u201d laughed Adam as he grabbed Little Joe in a headlock and practically dragged him back to the house. When he reached the porch, he released the boy. \u201cWhy don\u2019t we all get cleaned up and go into town? My treat, I\u2019ll buy the first round of beer.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cSounds fair to me\u2026how\u2019s about you, Joe?\u201d Hoss rushed to accept the offer.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cSure\u2026why not\u2026do we gotta ride a horse?\u201d Michael asked while rubbing his behind.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cNo, you can walk\u2026but by the time you get there, Hoss and I will most likely be on our way home,\u201d Adam stated with a cheeky grin on his face.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cAwwww\u2026damn\u2026.ere\u2026dadburnitall!\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Side by side the three brothers rode into town. Adam and Hoss each rode to the right and left of their younger brother, almost in a protective manner. Michael was feeling on top of the world. He had never known such freedom from the cares of everyday living and tonight, his spirit soared.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

They reined in their mounts in front of the Silver Dollar Saloon and ambled up to the swinging door. Just as Michael was about to push it open and go inside, a man came tumbling through the left side of door, nearly knocking the three brothers to the ground. Mike jumped to the side to avoid being hit and then laughed as another man followed the first, in much the same manner.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

The doorway cleared and Michael led the way, followed by Dan and Pernell. \u201cWow!\u201d he whistled.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWhat?\u201d asked Hoss who had heard the exclamation.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cThis is just like in the westerns,\u201d Mike said.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

He smiled politely at a pretty barmaid as she sashayed past.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cSee you later, brothers\u2026\u201d Mike snickered, as he followed after the pretty girl.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam and Hoss exchanged knowing looks and turned to the bar and ordered their beer. They were surprised when less than ten minutes later they were joined by their younger brother. Mike looked up at them with a look that made both, Adam and Hoss, laugh.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWhat\u2019s wrong, Little Joe, she dump you already?\u201d teased Adam, motioning to the barkeeper to bring his brother a beer.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cNaw\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cThen what\u2026ain\u2019t ya got enough money?\u201d Hoss he-hawed.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cNaw\u2026ain\u2019t that either,\u201d grumbled Mike, sipping his beer.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWhat then, pray tell,\u201d Adam said, winking at Hoss.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI can\u2019t go upstairs with her\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWhy not?\u201d Adam sounded shocked; it would be the first time in a long time that Joe had refused the young woman.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cCause.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cCause, why?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cJust because, that\u2019s why.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cCome on now Joe\u2026cause why? Ya got the itch or sumthin\u2019?\u201d Hoss was getting more curious by the minute.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cNO DAMNIT\u2026Cause\u2026I\u2019m\u2026married\u2026that\u2019s why, and besides\u2026that\u2019s Betty Endicott!\u201d Mike said in a voice so low that only Dan and Pernell could hear.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Hoss almost choked on his beer and he glanced swiftly at Adam whose eyes had grown large and dark. Adam set his beer on the bar and grabbed his brother\u2019s arm.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWe better take him home, Hoss\u2026he\u2019s hallucinating again,\u201d Adam glanced around to be sure he hadn\u2019t been over heard. He tugged on Joe\u2019s arm, forcing the boy to follow along behind.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Hoss grabbed Joe\u2019s other arm, pulling him back and causing Adam to lose his grip.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cHe\u2019s a what?\u201d Hoss whispered loudly.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam grabbed Joe\u2019s free arm and tugged, Hoss tugged back. Adam tugged harder, Hoss jerked forcefully and then Mike, having had enough of this tug-of-war, jerked free of both Dan and Pernell\u2019s grasp.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWill you two stop this!\u201d he demanded in a loud voice. Mike turned to leave and not paying close attention, bumped into a man at the bar, causing the stranger to spill his beer.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cExcuse me,\u201d muttered Mike and then headed for the door. He was stopped suddenly and practically jerked off the ground by the angry man.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Unbeknown to his two brothers who had already left the saloon, and had no idea what was taking place, they ambled slowly down the street.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYou spilled my beer!\u201d stormed the man.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI said excuse me,\u201d grumbled Michael who was slowly losing his temper. \u201cI\u2019ll buy you another one. Barkeeper, pour the man another beer, will you?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

The barkeeper did as instructed, and then gently pushed the mug of frothy ale, up the counter to within the man\u2019s reach.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cThere you go,\u201d Mike said, pointing to the mug.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI don\u2019t want the beer, now,\u201d the man snarled.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Michael rolled his eyes, put off by the man\u2019s attitude. \u201cOkay, fine, don\u2019t drink it,\u201d he piped as he turned to leave.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

The man made a lunge at Mike, knocking into him with his entire body. Michael and the stranger fell to the floor in a huddle. Instantly, Mike felt a rush of pain as the man\u2019s massive fist connected with his jaw. Mike, who struggled to get to his feet, was hoisted up into the stranger\u2019s arms and hurdled across the room, crashing into a table on the opposite wall. Someone shouted a warning to him, but before he could collect his muddled thoughts, he felt his body being raised high into the air and the next thing Michael knew he was laying sprawled on the sidewalk outside of the saloon.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Every bone in his body ached from the abuse the stranger rained on him. He forced himself to his knees, only to have his chin kicked. Mike felt his head jerked backwards and thought it might have actually become disjointed from his neck and shoulders. His ribs popped as the man\u2019s foot connected with his side, and Michael screamed out in pain as another swift kick finished what the first had intended.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Blackness swirled before him, and though he tried to get up, his battered body would not permit him to do so. The last thing that flashed before his eyes before everything went totally black, were the chocolate colored eyes so filled with love.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cPa\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

And then there was nothing.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cJoseph\u2026Joseph\u2026wake up son. It\u2019s time to go to work, young man\u2026are you going to sleep all day?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cHmm\u2026what?\u201d moaned Joe as he fought to open his eyes.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI said, it\u2019s time to go to work\u2026are you\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI know what you said\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cThen why ask me?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe\u2019s long lashes fluttered and then his eyes opened. His father\u2019s face loomed before him, smiling.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYou must have had one heck of a nightmare, Joseph. You kept us awake all night with your whimpering and thrashing about,\u201d his father explained.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYeah Joe, ya even fell out of bed a couple\u2019la times,\u201d laughed Hoss who had joined his father. \u201cI had ta put ya back to bed.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYou didn\u2019t even wake up Joe. In fact you kept mumbling something about some fellows by the name of Pernell, Dan and Lorne,\u201d Adam added.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cAnd some woman named Lynn\u2026you know a Lynn, Joseph? She\u2019s not one of those hussies at the Bucket of Blood is she?\u201d Ben asked with a frown. \u201cMaybe that\u2019s where he\u2019s learned to swear,\u201d he added.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cNO\u2026No\u2026I\u2019m sorry\u2026I must have really been dreaming. I dreamed I was riding in this\u2026machine\u2026with wheels\u2026and no top\u2026and I was going really, really fast, and it crashed into a lake\u2026and sank, and then\u2026.Roy\u2026Roy\u2026you don\u2019t believe me, do you?\u201d cried Joe, scanning each face for a spark of understanding.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe pressed his head into his pillow, fighting the urge to cry. \u201cMy name was Michael something or other\u2026and I was a big\u2026big\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cJerk?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cNo damnit, Hoss\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cJOSEPH! I warned you about that language!\u201d stormed Ben.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cSorry Pa\u2026honest\u2026I\u2026I\u2026\u201d sniffed Little Joe.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cAw\u2026Pa\u2026it was my fault for teasin\u2019 em\u2026don\u2019t be mad at him. Maybe that fight he had last night jarred his brain some, and he ain\u2019t thinkin\u2019 right,\u201d offered Hoss, in his younger brother\u2019s defense.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYeah Pa\u2026I ain\u2019t thinkin\u2019 right,\u201d mutter Joe, giving his father one of his best sad puppy dog looks.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben laughed and stood to his feet. \u201cAll right, Joe, I\u2019ll let it go\u2026this time. But I promise you that the very next time I go into town, I\u2019m stopping by the Bucket of Blood and have myself a very long and meaningful talk with this Lynn gal. You got that?\u201d growled Ben.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYessir,\u201d Joe answered meekly.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

The very next week, the Cartwrights rode into town and stopped by the sheriff\u2019s office. People were bustling about on both sides of the street, a sure sign that something was amiss. Before they could dismount, Roy hurried from his office to greet them.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cHowdy Ben, Adam, Hoss, Little Joe,\u201d he said.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cHowdy Roy,\u201d Ben said, climbing down from the saddle. \u201cWhat\u2019s going on? People\u2019s running everywhere.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cThey\u2019re all going to the livery,\u201d Adam said absentmindedly as he watched the flow of people coming and going from the livery stable.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cIt\u2019s Walter, he\u2019s found some gosh dang contraption in the bottom of that old pond of his\u2019n and dragged it into town and is keepin\u2019 it at the livery. People\u2019s been comin\u2019 by near onto four days now, jist to get a peek at the thing,\u201d explained Roy.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cContraption\u2026what kind of contraption?\u201d Ben asked, glancing up at his sons and seeing the curiosity on their young faces.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cBeats me, Ben. I ain\u2019t never laid eyes on the like. Could be most anythin\u2019, but I ain\u2019t got no notion.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cLet\u2019s go have a look,\u201d Joe suggested as he swung down from his horse.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYeah, let\u2019s,\u201d agreed Hoss. \u201cYa comin\u2019 Adam?\u201d he asked as he fell into step behind his younger brother.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cSure, why not?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

The three quickly made their way to the livery stable and inched in ahead of the row of bystanders. Adam and Hoss\u2019 long stride soon put them ahead of their younger brother, putting them in front of the contraption before Joe had a chance to view it. They stared in awe at the thing.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

It was smooth and sleek and had once been shiny red, but had faded with time and the elements to a dull shade of muddy brown. Four large wheels were attached, two to each side. It had no top, and inside the object were leather seats of sorts, two in the front and a long narrow seat in the back. A large round wheel, unlike those on the side, protruded up, over and in front of, one leather seat. It was the strangest sort of machine that the brothers had ever seen, or hoped to see again.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cMove\u2026scoot over!\u201d growled Joe as he tried to elbow his way between his two brothers.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam and Hoss moved slightly, giving Little Joe space to work his body between them. His eyes grew round with wonder as he tried to speak. His words came out garbled and slurred and no one could make sense out of the sounds. Adam and Hoss glanced at one another and then down at Joe whose face had paled considerably and whose hands had begun to tremble and who was making strange gurgling sounds.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWhat\u2019s wrong with him?\u201d Adam asked.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cLooks as if he\u2019s seen a ghost,\u201d Hoss conferred.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cMy c\u2026c\u2026c\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cMaybe we oughta take\u2019em home?\u201d Hoss suggested.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cNo, let\u2019s take him to the doc\u2019s, he\u2019ll know what to do,\u201d Ben said as he slipped his arm around Joe and turned him away from the strange machine.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe twisted his head around to get one last look at the object. He turned to his father, his eyes filling with tears. \u201cIt was so pretty,\u201d he mumbled and then rested his head against his father\u2019s shoulder.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben glanced over at Adam and then Hoss. Hoss shrugged his shoulders.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYes\u2026whatever it is, was pretty,\u201d Ben said, thinking to comfort his son who suddenly seemed overwhelmed with emotion.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cBring him into the examining room, Ben,\u201d Paul Martin said as he opened the door to the back room.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cThere you go, son, just lie back and let\u2019s see what\u2019s going on with you,\u201d the doctor smiled down at his patient.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cBen if you and your sons don\u2019t mind, please wait in the other room. I won\u2019t be long,\u201d Paul said as he motioned for Joe\u2019s family to leave them alone.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Once the others had gone, Paul returned to the bedside. \u201cNow young man\u2026why don\u2019t you explain what\u2019s going on?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYou ain\u2019t gonna believe me, doc\u2026not his time,\u201d Joe said in a wee voice.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cOh, I don\u2019t know about that Joe, I\u2019ve heard just about everything imaginable. Why don\u2019t you try me?\u201d encouraged the physician.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cOkay, but you better pull up a chair.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Paul did just that and made himself comfortable. For more than two hours he listened, shaking his head, disbelieving most of what he heard.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cThat\u2019s impossible!\u201d he stormed at long last.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cBut it\u2019s the truth!\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cJoe Cartwright, if you were five years younger, I would recommend that your father take you to the woodshed and wear your butt out for telling such a tale!\u201d growled Paul.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI knew you wouldn\u2019t believe me\u2026I don\u2019t know why I bothered,\u201d whined Joe.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWell, I shouldn\u2019t have\u2026now get dressed and get out of here\u2026and don\u2019t come back\u2026unless there\u2019s blood and you need stitches!\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Paul waited until Joe had slipped back on his shirt and then grabbing the door, flung it opened. \u201cOUT!\u201d he shouted, stunning the three who had waited with baited breath for the diagnosis.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben, Adam and Hoss were quickly on their feet.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cOUT! ALL OF YOU\u2026GET OUT AND STAY OUT!\u201d stormed the doctor.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWhat the blazes\u2026\u201d Ben stammered, confused by all the shouting.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cDON\u2019T EVEN ASK! I\u2019VE NEVER HEARD SUCH A THING IN MY LIFE! I\u2019M WARNING YOU BEN, THIS CUB OF YOUR\u2019S NEED A GOOD THRASHING! Now\u2026please, just take him home\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

The door slammed loudly behind them and Ben quickly turned to his youngest \u2018cub\u2019.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cGet on that horse and ride! Do you hear me, Joseph? And when I get you home\u2026I\u2019ve a good mind to take the doctor\u2019s advice and\u2026WHY ARE YOU STILL STANDING HERE, YOUNG MAN??\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cUm\u2026um\u2026\u201d Joe gulped. \u201cUm\u2026you\u2019re standing\u2026um\u2026on my foot, Pa,\u201d squeaked Joe, drawing his arms up close and pointing down with one finger.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cOH FOR GOODNESS SAKE!\u201d shouted Ben, moving his foot.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe jumped mounted onto the back of his pinto and rode away as if the devil himself was hot on his trail. And he was, once Ben Cartwright was mounted and racing after him, though Little Joe would not find that out\u2026until much later, after he told the same story to his father!<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

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

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

 <\/p>\n

<\/div>\n

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

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

Summary:\u00a0\u00a0 Caught between two worlds, Michael Landon AKA Joe Cartwright must choose.\u00a0 Which will it be…a life of extreme wealth, glamor and notoriety, or a life of\u00a0 warm understanding, peaceful living and contentment within himself?<\/p>\n

Rated: PG 13 Contains several cuss words. This story is meant only in fun, not to offend! (12, 360 words)<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":9052,"featured_media":9763,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"template-full-width-post.php","format":"standard","meta":{"jetpack_post_was_ever_published":false,"_jetpack_newsletter_access":"","_jetpack_dont_email_post_to_subs":false,"_jetpack_newsletter_tier_id":0,"_jetpack_memberships_contains_paywalled_content":false,"_jetpack_memberships_contains_paid_content":false,"footnotes":""},"categories":[7,23],"tags":[16],"class_list":["post-12254","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-a-u","category-drama","tag-joe","wpcat-7-id","wpcat-23-id"],"a3_pvc":{"activated":true,"total_views":1326,"today_views":0},"jetpack_featured_media_url":"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/wp-content\/uploads\/2014\/04\/jb.jpg?fit=720%2C480&ssl=1","jetpack_likes_enabled":true,"jetpack-related-posts":[{"id":18034,"url":"https:\/\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/?p=18034","url_meta":{"origin":12254,"position":0},"title":"Joe (by A-P)","author":"A-P","date":"August 15, 2018","format":false,"excerpt":"Summary: A group of poems about Joe Cartwright . Rating: K Word Count: 578","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\/2014\/04\/Joe1.png?fit=608%2C570&ssl=1&resize=350%2C200","width":350,"height":200,"srcset":"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/wp-content\/uploads\/2014\/04\/Joe1.png?fit=608%2C570&ssl=1&resize=350%2C200 1x, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/wp-content\/uploads\/2014\/04\/Joe1.png?fit=608%2C570&ssl=1&resize=525%2C300 1.5x"},"classes":[]},{"id":15348,"url":"https:\/\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/?p=15348","url_meta":{"origin":12254,"position":1},"title":"Joe Cartwright – Magician! (by Questfan)","author":"Questfan","date":"October 26, 2017","format":false,"excerpt":"SUMMARY: A Bonanza story celebrating that fun side of Michael in his role as Joe Cartwright. Make it scary, funny, or dramatic . . . or all three! Rating: K Word Count: 660","rel":"","context":"In "Humor"","block_context":{"text":"Humor","link":"https:\/\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/?cat=4"},"img":{"alt_text":"","src":"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/1C673A90-35E7-41AC-8BB3-F8707550AF36.jpeg?fit=700%2C525&ssl=1&resize=350%2C200","width":350,"height":200,"srcset":"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/1C673A90-35E7-41AC-8BB3-F8707550AF36.jpeg?fit=700%2C525&ssl=1&resize=350%2C200 1x, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/1C673A90-35E7-41AC-8BB3-F8707550AF36.jpeg?fit=700%2C525&ssl=1&resize=525%2C300 1.5x, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/1C673A90-35E7-41AC-8BB3-F8707550AF36.jpeg?fit=700%2C525&ssl=1&resize=700%2C400 2x"},"classes":[]},{"id":2882,"url":"https:\/\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/?p=2882","url_meta":{"origin":12254,"position":2},"title":"The Race (by frasrgrl)","author":"frasrgrl","date":"October 24, 2013","format":false,"excerpt":"Summary:\u00a0 \u00a0Can Joe convince his brothers to take part of a new race Virginia City is hosting this month? Word Count: \u00a0513\u00a0 This is my answer to October's C&S and the Michael Landon Birthday Challenge. Rated: K","rel":"","context":"In "Chaps and Spurs"","block_context":{"text":"Chaps and Spurs","link":"https:\/\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/?cat=39"},"img":{"alt_text":"","src":"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/wp-content\/uploads\/2014\/04\/outhouse.jpg?fit=600%2C800&ssl=1&resize=350%2C200","width":350,"height":200,"srcset":"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/wp-content\/uploads\/2014\/04\/outhouse.jpg?fit=600%2C800&ssl=1&resize=350%2C200 1x, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/wp-content\/uploads\/2014\/04\/outhouse.jpg?fit=600%2C800&ssl=1&resize=525%2C300 1.5x"},"classes":[]},{"id":60422,"url":"https:\/\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/?p=60422","url_meta":{"origin":12254,"position":3},"title":"Three Thousand Six Hundred Seconds (by Pat D in PA)","author":"Pat D in PA","date":"October 31, 2025","format":false,"excerpt":"SUMMARY: A short piece written for the Michael Landon Birthday Literary Challenge 2025. (536 words, rating G\/K)","rel":"","context":"In "Joe Cartwright"","block_context":{"text":"Joe Cartwright","link":"https:\/\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/?cat=1007"},"img":{"alt_text":"","src":"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/clock.jpg?fit=600%2C600&ssl=1&resize=350%2C200","width":350,"height":200,"srcset":"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/clock.jpg?fit=600%2C600&ssl=1&resize=350%2C200 1x, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/clock.jpg?fit=600%2C600&ssl=1&resize=525%2C300 1.5x"},"classes":[]},{"id":6628,"url":"https:\/\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/?p=6628","url_meta":{"origin":12254,"position":4},"title":"Forever – The Love of My Life – #3 (by Rider)","author":"Rider","date":"May 4, 2014","format":false,"excerpt":"Summary: \u00a0Joe and Alice think about their relationship on the eve of their wedding. Rated:\u00a0K+ (990 words) Forever Series, links to all the stories within the series 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\/02\/coming-soon-4.jpg?fit=320%2C240&ssl=1&resize=350%2C200","width":350,"height":200},"classes":[]},{"id":12016,"url":"https:\/\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/?p=12016","url_meta":{"origin":12254,"position":5},"title":"The Man (by pbeaking)","author":"pbeaking","date":"July 1, 2008","format":false,"excerpt":"Summary:\u00a0 As we come upon the 17th anniversary of Michael Landon\u2019s passing July 1st, 1991, I\u2019ve been trying to think of a way to celebrate what he has left for us all. This is a different sort of story because it is written in rhyme. I find I can express\u2026","rel":"","context":"In "Drama"","block_context":{"text":"Drama","link":"https:\/\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/?cat=23"},"img":{"alt_text":"","src":"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/08\/Joe-copy-7.jpg?fit=594%2C592&ssl=1&resize=350%2C200","width":350,"height":200,"srcset":"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/08\/Joe-copy-7.jpg?fit=594%2C592&ssl=1&resize=350%2C200 1x, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/08\/Joe-copy-7.jpg?fit=594%2C592&ssl=1&resize=525%2C300 1.5x"},"classes":[]}],"jetpack_sharing_enabled":true,"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/posts\/12254","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=12254"}],"version-history":[{"count":0,"href":"https:\/\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/posts\/12254\/revisions"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/media\/9763"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Fmedia&parent=12254"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Fcategories&post=12254"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Ftags&post=12254"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}