{"id":12683,"date":"2005-09-14T17:38:00","date_gmt":"2005-09-14T21:38:00","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/?p=12683"},"modified":"2026-07-22T13:58:51","modified_gmt":"2026-07-22T17:58:51","slug":"benita-watson-by-calim11","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/?p=12683","title":{"rendered":"Benita Watson (by Calim11)"},"content":{"rendered":"

Summary<\/strong>: An old friend has returned home from school.\u00a0 Is that a good thing?<\/p>\n

Rating: PG (10,490 words)<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Benita Watson<\/strong><\/p>\n

Tuesday<\/u><\/em><\/p>\n

\u201cHello, Hoss, Joe,\u201d Benita Watson said with a warm smile. They returned her smile and tipped their hats, quickly stepping into Mr. Harry Gardner\u2019s General Store and peered out the front window knowing their big brother was right behind them. Joe giggled as they watched Adam, distracted by something they\u2019d pointed out to him in the other window, plow right into Benita and bounce back against the wall, himself showered with the many small packages she carried.<\/p>\n

Now it was said that walking into Benita Watson was like walking into a mountain. It wasn\u2019t that she was taller than most men (although she was as tall as Adam) or even larger than Wally Turner (the rather large baker at the International House) it was just that she was, well . . . big boned as Hoss called it, and solid. Currently, she held her hand to her mouth and breathed a soft \u201coh\u201d as Adam recovered, pushing himself away from the wall to pick up her packages from the sidewalk. Finished with that little task, he stood and touched his hat, giving her a small grin.<\/p>\n

\u201cMiss Benita.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cAdam.\u201d She beamed back at him, batting her eyelashes and he sighed.<\/p>\n

He knew his brothers had purposely distracted him so they could make their escape. Joe\u2019s giggles confirmed that suspicion as he caught them looking through Mr. Gardner\u2019s window. Smirking, he hefted the heavy packages in his arms, wondering what was in them, and looked at the young woman before him.<\/p>\n

Benita Watson, just returned from schooling in the East, had known the Cartwright boys forever. They\u2019d all met her in differing circumstances, all resulting in stays at Dr. Paul Martin\u2019s office. To say she was accident-prone was not correct. To say that she caused<\/u><\/em> accidents was more truthful. Never intentionally, of course. Things just seemed to happen around her. Why her first meeting with Adam had been an up close and personal with her buggy resulting in ten stitches to his upper lip; Hoss found himself wallowing in a mud hole with two pigs and Joe, well, Joe had had the privilege of drawing her name at one of the town dances. He wasn\u2019t able to wear boots for a week. Yes, Benita Watson was well known to the Cartwright boys.<\/p>\n

\u201cAdam, are we still on for the dance Saturday?\u201d she asked, excitement lighting up every word. He so hated to tell her the truth, but he might as well get it over with.<\/p>\n

\u201cMiss Benita,\u201d he began, \u201cI was going to find you today and tell you that my back\u2019s been acting up and I didn\u2019t know if I\u2019d be very good company. I hope it\u2019s not too late to find another dance partner.\u201d Her face fell and he immediately felt guilty. It was true! His back did<\/u><\/em> hurt. After being slammed into a corral fence while trying to break a mustang just yesterday, he had, as Ben remarked, a hitch in his get along. Dancing didn\u2019t seem to be in the cards this weekend.<\/p>\n

\u201cOh,\u201d she said then quickly recovered. \u201cBut I don\u2019t mind. We could just sit and talk. I can tell you all about school.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cWell . . .\u201d Adam began only to be interrupted by a new voice from inside the General Store.<\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019ll take ya, Miss Benita.\u201d They both turned seeing Oren Fudge moving into the doorway, a silly grin on his long face.<\/p>\n

Oren Fudge was visually the direct opposite of Benita. About Joe\u2019s height and skinny (or lean and lanky as he liked to call it) with only a few hairs remaining on his head, he managed to call everyone friend. His family owned a farm just outside town and, as far as Adam knew, never had spared a glance at Benita before this. Ah, the plot thickens.<\/p>\n

\u201cOren,\u201d Benita stuttered. \u201cWell, I don\u2019t know . . .\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cOren! You forgot your flour!\u201d shouted Mr. Gardner from inside his store.<\/p>\n

\u201cWait just a second,\u201d Oren said bounding back inside, leaving Adam to raise his brows and smile at her once again.<\/p>\n

\u201cWell, Miss Benita, seems like you have a suitor,\u201d Adam said watching her face squinch up like she\u2019d smelled a skunk.<\/p>\n

\u201cOren?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cYou\u2019ve known him about as long as you\u2019ve known me. He plays a mean game of pinochle.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cBut . . . Oren?\u201d she repeated her head simply not wrapping about that at all. Tall, dark and handsome to skinny . . . ah, lean and lanky and, well, Oren-like?<\/p>\n

\u201cWhatcha say, Miss Benita?\u201d Oren practically yelled as he came bounding out of the store. Well, his loud question coinciding with an equally loud clatter from inside the store (pans it sounded like) made such a racket that everyone jumped, including Benita. She whirled toward the noise, her arms flying out and catching the packages in Adam\u2019s arms, which flew into his face.<\/p>\n

Assailed by the heavy items, he stepped backwards onto Oren\u2019s foot and, losing his balance, fell against him. In a desperate attempt to grab something solid, Oren let fly his newly bought bag of flour high above him and head-butted Mr. Gardner who\u2019d come out to see what all the commotion was about. It was Mr. Gardner\u2019s turn to then stumble back against the china cabinet by the front door of his store making it wobble this way and that, Hoss and Joe frantically trying to catch the plates and cups that zipped through the air from the teetering display.<\/p>\n

\u201cOh, my!\u201d Benita was heard to say, hand over her mouth, as the calamity came to a noisy conclusion, followed by a deafening silence and a snow shower of flour.<\/p>\n

Mr. Gardner lay clutching a delicate gravy boat half on and half off his display letting out a breath as everything came to a halt. He winced, though, when Hoss lost his grip on one of the plates and shattered the sudden silence.<\/p>\n

\u201cSorry, Mr. Gardner,\u201d Hoss said with a swallow carefully putting the rest of his catch on the counter next to the pans Joe had most recently knocked to the floor.<\/p>\n

\u201cIt\u2019s all right, Hoss,\u201d the storekeeper answered daring not to move from his precarious position.<\/p>\n

Adam raised himself to his elbows and shook his head, flour flying in every direction, pressing a hand gently against his left eye. What was in those packages? Taking a second, he decided he\u2019d better get up and help Mr. Gardner recover what he could.<\/p>\n

Having difficulty finding traction on the flour-covered sidewalk and deciding the best method would be to move to his knees, he grabbed onto the barrel of shovels in front of him to steady himself. His twinging back reminded him at that moment that if it wasn\u2019t the mustang, it was definitely this that made dancing a no-no this weekend.<\/p>\n

Beginning to rise, he stopped as a shadow fell over him forcing him to look up directly into the shocked face of Benita Watson. He didn\u2019t know if it was the angle or not but it appeared she was headed directly toward him in an uncontrolled fall. Automatically raising his arms, he caught her, her momentum pushing them into the barrel of shovels scattering them everywhere.<\/p>\n

\u201cOhhh!\u201d was heard above this new noise as the two rolled through the shovels and off the sidewalk and into the muddy street to land in a breath-expelling heap. People said they couldn\u2019t even see Adam lying underneath Benita, her dress having flown over her head covering them both. Only his hat was visible upside down in the mud.<\/p>\n

Mr. Gardner leaned out as far as he dared to see what was happening as Hoss and Joe stepped past him and over a flour-covered Oren to see what had happened to their brother. Shovels littered the sidewalk and Benita\u2019s bloomers were there for everyone to see along with her panicky voice calling to the man beneath her.<\/p>\n

\u201cAdam? Adam, are you all right?\u201d Wondering where their brother was under all that dress, Hoss and Joe jumped into the muddy street, Hoss helping Benita to her feet. Both raised their brows as Adam became visible as she stood, his yellow jacket covered in mud and flour. He didn\u2019t move. Joe knelt quickly by his side.<\/p>\n

\u201cIs he all right?\u201d Hoss asked, worry etching his face.<\/p>\n

\u201cOut cold,\u201d Joe answered as Benita\u2019s hand moved to her now flour covered face. \u201cHe\u2019s got a right nice lump on his head.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cOh, goodness.\u201d Hoss patted her on the shoulder raising a dusting of flour. \u201cProbably all them shovels, Miss Benita,\u201d he said with slight cough. \u201cDon\u2019t you worry none. We\u2019ll get him over to Doc Martin\u2019s and he\u2019ll be right as rain in a jiffy. He\u2019s got a hard head.\u201d Hoss leaned over and picked up his unconscious brother, with Joe grabbing Adam\u2019s wayward hat.<\/p>\n

\u201cI should go with you,\u201d Benita said taking a step after them, dusting off her hands.<\/p>\n

\u201cNo, no,\u201d Joe said a bit too quickly, holding up his hand and making her stop, sure that his feet were well away from hers. \u201cYou stay here and help Oren and Mr. Gardner. We\u2019ll take care of Adam.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cIf you think that\u2019s best,\u201d she said not even thinking about how fast Joe was moving down the street.<\/p>\n

\u201cWe do, Miss Benita,\u201d Joe called out to her with a quick smile as he followed after his brothers. \u201cWe do!\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019ll stop by later to see if he\u2019s okay!\u201d she called seeing Joe wave at her then disappear inside the doctor\u2019s office. Sighing, she turned back toward the store to see what she could do to help finding Oren standing directly behind her giving her a flour-covered smile.<\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019d be glad ta take ya to the dance, Miss Benita, what with Adam lookin\u2019 like he won\u2019t be standin\u2019 anytime soon.\u201d Her eyes narrowed and her mouth pursed up, hands flying to her hips. The smile quickly left his face.<\/p>\n

\u201cOren Fudge,\u201d she began. \u201cAdam could really be hurt. You shouldn\u2019t be saying things like that.\u201d<\/p>\n

He began to fidget. \u201cWell, its jest that ya want ta go ta the dance and I\u2019m more than willin\u2019 to take ya. I don\u2019t see what ya see in him anyways. Jest because he\u2019s got perfect teeth and talks nice don\u2019t mean he\u2019s better than me.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cBetter than I am,\u201d she corrected. She was a teacher after all. Now this is odd. I\u2019ve known Oren since I was little and he\u2019d never even looked sideways at me and now, all of a sudden, he wanted to take me to the dance. Well, I don\u2019t think so, mister! \u201cEither I go to the dance with Adam Cartwright or not at all.\u201d<\/p>\n

Raising her chin in defiance she turned from Oren, pulled her dress up (so as not to trip again) and marched back toward the General Store, ignoring the looks from the growing crowd. Stepping inside a loud crash sounded followed by a raging bellow.<\/p>\n

\u201cMY GRAVY BOAT!\u201d<\/p>\n

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

\u201cI send you boys to get supplies,\u201d Ben Cartwright began in quiet measured tones, his hands rising up. \u201cAnd one of you ends up at Paul\u2019s!\u201d he ended loudly, his hands falling to slap against his thighs. He stood quietly then, shutting his eyes, taking a breath and forcing himself to be calm. \u201cWhat happened?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cBenita Watson,\u201d both Hoss and Joe said without hesitation. Ben\u2019s brows flew up as his eyes popped open.<\/p>\n

\u201cOh.\u201d No other explanation was necessary.<\/p>\n

\u201cCome on in, boys,\u201d Paul Martin said opening the door to the surgery, his eyes falling on Ben. \u201cYou, too, Ben.\u201d<\/p>\n

They all filed in to see Adam\u2019s flour covered self sitting up on the exam table, shirt open to reveal heavily wrapped ribs, one hand holding an ice pack over his left eye and the other one to the back of his head. There his son sat – a vision of flour, mud and bruises. Ben didn\u2019t know if he wanted the story or not. It should be a doozie.<\/p>\n

\u201cHi, Pa,\u201d Adam said with a weak smile as Ben approached.<\/p>\n

\u201cLet me see,\u201d he said in his most fatherly way, pulling the pack from Adam\u2019s eye. He winced at the sight.<\/p>\n

\u201cBenita Watson.\u201d<\/p>\n

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

\u201cAt least you won\u2019t have ta go ta the dance with her now,\u201d Hoss said.<\/p>\n

Adam peeked around Ben\u2019s arms. \u201cOh, I\u2019m going. I promised,\u201d he answered putting the ice back on his tender eye. Always the upright Adam.<\/p>\n

\u201cSon,\u201d Paul began nearing the table, \u201cyou aren\u2019t going to be doing any dancing for a couple of weeks, maybe a month. She broke two of your ribs.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cShe?\u201d Ben asked, looking from one son to the other.<\/p>\n

\u201cIt was an accident, Pa,\u201d Adam explained.<\/p>\n

\u201cShe?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cMiss Benita,\u201d Joe provided. Tossing him a questioning glance, Hoss took up the slack.<\/p>\n

\u201cFell on him, Pa, right out there in the street.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cFell on him,\u201d Ben repeated trying to picture it in his head.<\/p>\n

\u201cMore like fell on him, rolled into a barrel of shovels and landed hard in the street,\u201d Paul added, Hoss and Joe looking at him. \u201cI was watching through the window.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cSo that\u2019s why the door was open,\u201d Hoss said with a grin.<\/p>\n

\u201cAlways good to be prepared,\u201d Paul answered as he replaced his instruments on their tray.<\/p>\n

\u201cI thought going away to school, learning new things, building up her confidence would break her out of her . . . her . . .\u201d Ben stopped, searching for the right word.<\/p>\n

\u201cKlutziness,\u201d Joe stated.<\/p>\n

\u201cAwkwardness,\u201d Ben added in a reproachful tone followed by a glare to his youngest. Joe lowered his eyes and fidgeted with something on his pants.<\/p>\n

\u201cShe\u2019s a jumpy thing, I\u2019ll give ya that,\u201d Hoss added with a nod.<\/p>\n

\u201cA loud noise started the whole thing, Pa,\u201d Adam explained squinting his eyes against the pounding in his head. \u201cSounded like pans falling.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cPans?\u201d Joe asked, a worried look crossing his face.<\/p>\n

\u201cThat\u2019s what it sounded like and then it all snowballed from there,\u201d Adam continued. Joe glanced at Hoss who shook his head, hoping neither Ben nor Adam saw the look of guilt pass between them. \u201cShe just tries too hard, Pa. That\u2019s why I have to take her to the dance.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cNow, Adam,\u201d Paul began, \u201cit\u2019s not wise for you to be gallivanting across the dance floor with two broken ribs and a concussion. You might just keel over.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cI promised, Paul. I promised as soon as she came back from school, I\u2019d take her to the first dance, like a welcome home gesture.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cShe\u2019ll have to find someone else,\u201d the doctor said with a shake of his head.<\/p>\n

\u201cCouldn\u2019t you\u2019ve just given her a book or something?\u201d Joe asked. \u201cIt\u2019s safer.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cHa, ha,\u201d Adam said, holding his ribs as a pain passed through him.<\/p>\n

\u201cDr. Martin,\u201d came Benita\u2019s voice from the front door. \u201cIs Adam still here?\u201d Both Hoss and Joe flattened themselves against the wall and Ben jumped like a rattlesnake had snuck up on him. Paul grinned and looked to Adam. He nodded.<\/p>\n

\u201cHe\u2019s in here, Miss Benita.\u201d Quietly, she moved through the waiting room seeing Adam hastily trying to button his shirt, cringing at the black eye already forming on his handsome face.<\/p>\n

\u201cOh, Adam, did I do that?\u201d she said tentatively reaching for the injury.<\/p>\n

Adam leaned back, out of reach, and grabbed her hand. \u201cNo, I did that, Benita,\u201d he began. \u201cI\u2019m just clumsy. What did you have in those packages anyway?\u201d he asked, touching his swollen eye. \u201cRocks?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cActually, yes.\u201d He raised his brows. She glanced around at the men in the room. \u201cI promised the girls in my class to send back rocks for their collections.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cRocks,\u201d Hoss repeated as she nodded.<\/p>\n

\u201cRocks,\u201d she said, lowering her head. \u201cOh, I\u2019m always causing problems.\u201d<\/p>\n

Adam squeezed her hand. \u201cIt was an accident, Benita,\u201d Adam said. \u201cDon\u2019t worry about it.\u201d<\/p>\n

She turned from him to Paul who\u2019d expertly put himself between her and his instrument tray. It wasn\u2019t until later that he thought how dangerous that could have been. \u201cDoctor, will he be all right?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cHe\u2019ll be just fine, Miss Benita, with some rest.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019m glad,\u201d she nodded. \u201cWell, thanks anyway, Adam.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cFor what?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cFor wanting to take me to the dance. Maybe we\u2019ll go next time.\u201d She turned to leave but Adam held onto her hand.<\/p>\n

\u201cIf you have someone else to take you, that\u2019s fine, but I plan on being there.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cBut you\u2019re hurt . . .\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cOnly my head . . .<\/p>\n

\u201cAnd your ribs,\u201d Joe added.<\/p>\n

Adam scowled at him. \u201c. . . but not my dancing legs,\u201d he said with a smile.<\/p>\n

\u201cNow, Adam . . . ,\u201d Paul began and was silenced with a look.<\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019ll pick you up around 6:00pm. I may not be able to dance more than twice.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cAre you sure? Doctor?\u201d Benita asked tentatively.<\/p>\n

\u201cPositive,\u201d Adam interjected, eyeing Paul who shut his mouth on his objection.<\/p>\n

She beamed at him and he smiled back. \u201c6:00pm then.\u201d She giggled and made her retreat, all of the men staying out of her way. Paul cringed when he heard a vase crash to the floor, the table it was on rolling into the surgery to stop at Ben\u2019s feet. So happy was she, she hadn\u2019t even noticed.<\/p>\n

\u201cI sent all the way to New York for that vase,\u201d the doctor mumbled under his breath, rubbing the back of his neck and turning back to his patient. \u201cNow, Adam, I meant it when I said you wouldn\u2019t be doing any dancing anytime soon.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cI cannot not<\/u><\/em> take her, Paul,\u201d he said. \u201cI promised.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cLook, son . . . ,\u201d Ben began but Adam held up his hand.<\/p>\n

\u201cPa, if I don\u2019t take her she\u2019ll be the laughing stock of the town.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cShe already is,\u201d Joe added with a snort getting a stern look from his big brother. He looked the other way.<\/p>\n

\u201cAnd it\u2019s not deserved. She\u2019s been to school, she\u2019s a trained schoolteacher, and she deserves the right to start over. We\u2019ve known her forever, Pa. I can\u2019t just let her be laughed at if I can prevent it.\u201d<\/p>\n

Ben smiled and put his hand on Adam\u2019s shoulder. \u201cJust remember she\u2019s enamored with you, always has been. Don\u2019t you think taking her to this dance might not be such a good idea?\u201d<\/p>\n

Adam put the ice pack back on his eye and shrugged. \u201cI promised,\u201d he said with a sigh.<\/p>\n

\u201cAll right then,\u201d Ben said turning to his other two boys. \u201cNow, does anyone want to tell me how all this,\u201d he said, pointing at Adam\u2019s flour covered form, \u201chappened?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cIt was like dominos, Pa,\u201d Joe began eagerly ready to retell the tale.<\/p>\n

\u201cOne minute they was standin\u2019, the next they was flat,\u201d Hoss finished as Joe nodded.<\/p>\n

\u201cThey?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cYessir,\u201d Hoss said. \u201cAdam . . .\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cMr. Gardner . . .\u201d Joe added.<\/p>\n

\u201cAnd Oren Fudge,\u201d they said together.<\/p>\n

Ben looked at each of his son\u2019s then sat down next to Adam on the table, pushing his hat back off his forehead. \u201cFrom the beginning,\u201d he sighed as Hoss took a breath.<\/p>\n

\u201cWell, we was mindin\u2019 our own business when . . .\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Thursday<\/u><\/em>\u00a0<\/em><\/strong><\/p>\n

Two days later, and finally able to move around by himself without pitching over, Adam made his way out of the house slipping past the ever-vigilant Hop Sing. Smiling at his escape, he rubbed his hands together and breathed in the fresh air. His quick grab for the hitching post proved that that was a regrettable action as a stabbing pain passed across his ribs forcing sweat to pop out on his forehead and stars to flit in front of his eyes. Groaning, he was in the process of slowing his fast breathing when he chanced to open his eyes on Oren Fudge standing in front of him, a mean look on his face.<\/p>\n

\u201cHoly . . !\u201d Adam cursed, jumping a foot and putting a shaky hand to his chest. \u201cOren! Don\u2019t sneak up on people. You could get hurt,\u201d he explained finally noticing a peculiar look in the man\u2019s eye, settling Adam\u2019s ire and drawing his concern. \u201cWhat\u2019s the matter, Oren? Is something wrong?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cYa could say that,\u201d he answered continuing to glare at Adam who was perplexed to say the least until he saw Oren raise his hands and turn them into fists.<\/p>\n

\u201cNow, Oren, what\u2019s this about?\u201d Adam asked pushing himself away from the post, raising his hands palms out.<\/p>\n

\u201cYa know. Don\u2019t act like ya don\u2019t,\u201d Oren said moving from side to side in front of Adam, turning up a dust cloud and making him cough.<\/p>\n

\u201cI don\u2019t<\/u><\/em> know, Oren, or I wouldn\u2019t be asking,\u201d Adam answered quietly hoping to distract him with this simple statement. He could see Oren thinking on it then watched him stop moving and sighed with relief. He was in no shape to take him on. \u201cNow, what\u2019s this all about?\u201d<\/p>\n

Oren looked into Adam\u2019s face, trying to see if he was lying or not \u2018cause he never thought Adam Cartwright was dense but then maybe that tumble though the shovel barrel dented his head. Maybe he should go easy on him. He lowered his hands. \u201cMiss Benita,\u201d he stated flatly looking away, missing Adam\u2019s mouth falling open.<\/p>\n

Benita. Benita Watson?<\/em> thought Adam.<\/p>\n

\u201cYou all right, Adam?\u201d Oren asked looking up and seeing the idiotic face before him.<\/p>\n

Blinking a few times, Adam finally closed his mouth and rubbed his hand across his forehead. \u201cAh, Miss Benita?\u201d he asked, trying to look a bit smarter. He still had a concussion and this was taking a moment, but then the light bulb went on and he began to smile. Oren thought he\u2019d lost it for sure. \u201cOh.\u201d Leaning back against the post, he held his aching ribs and plastered a smile across his face.<\/p>\n

Not one to be put off, Oren once again raised his fists and began pumping them in the air. \u201cWell, come on then,\u201d he urged, thinking he could probably take Adam in his current condition.<\/p>\n

Adam watched this skinny . . . ah, lean and lanky, man move his fists up and down, walking in a semi circle in front of him. Under normal circumstances he knew it would take one or two punches to knock him to the ground if he had too, but he was severely limited at present. The better part of valor and all that.<\/p>\n

\u201cYou have me at a disadvantage, sir,\u201d Adam admitted sounding quite noble to his own ears, giving his opponent a very slight bow.<\/p>\n

It stopped Oren flat. Wow, it worked! \u201cA disa what?\u201d<\/p>\n

Any storybook resolution gone with the wind, Adam sighed and tried something else.<\/p>\n

\u201cBroken ribs. Can barely move,\u201d he said pointing to himself still not getting through to him, the pinched look on Oren\u2019s face proof of that. \u201cYou\u2019ve got me, Oren,\u201d he said holding up his hands, \u201cbefore we even start. I give up.\u201d Adam watched him digest the news then slowly lower his fists.<\/p>\n

\u201cOh, I guess . . . well, I guess that wouldn\u2019t be fair,\u201d Oren admitted, completely dejected.<\/p>\n

\u201cNot in the slightest. No,\u201d he quickly added seeing that look reappear on Oren\u2019s face.<\/p>\n

Shoving his now useless hands into his pockets, Oren kicked at the dirt. \u201cI jest wanted ta take her ta the dance, Adam. It\u2019s taken me so long to git up the nerve. But, she\u2019ll only go with you<\/u><\/em>,\u201d he said in a childish voice.<\/p>\n

Adam tried desperately not to grin and rubbed his face with his hand to wipe it away. \u201cWell, I promised her, Oren,\u201d he explained, \u201cbefore she even left for school.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cI know.\u201d He pulled some bark from one of the trees and fiddled with it. \u201cCain\u2019t ya jest, I don\u2019t know, fall down the stairs or sumthin\u2019? I could break yer foot fer ya,\u201d he offered with a smile.<\/p>\n

\u201cNo, no. That\u2019s all right,\u201d Adam quickly said stepping back as Oren moved toward him.<\/p>\n

\u201cI guess that wouldn\u2019t be right,\u201d he decided, leaning over the post. \u201cDo ya love her, Adam?\u201d The question came out of left field and Adam\u2019s brows flew up his forehead.<\/p>\n

\u201cWhat?\u201d Oren turned toward him. Those shovels must\u2019ve really done some damage.<\/p>\n

\u201cDo ya love her?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u00a0He was serious. Of course, he\u2019s serious, you idiot! Can\u2019t you see that look?<\/em><\/p>\n

\u201cWell,\u201d Adam began, desperately trying to come up with something. Maneuvering a thoughtful look onto his face he faced Oren. \u201cNot in the traditional manner.\u201d There\u2019s that look. \u201cJust as a friend,\u201d he simplified.<\/p>\n

\u201cOh,\u201d Oren said fiddling with the post ties. \u201cWell . . . I think . . . I think I might,\u201d he admitted surprising Adam. Never would\u2019ve thought that.<\/p>\n

\u201cMight?\u201d<\/p>\n

Oren nodded and stood up straight. \u201cI definitely . . . might,\u201d he said, his tone sure and solid.<\/p>\n

\u201cDefinitely might,\u201d Adam mumbled.<\/p>\n

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

Blowing out a long breath, Adam draped his arm around Oren\u2019s shoulders and directed him toward the chairs on the porch. \u201cWell, then, that\u2019s whole different story.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cHuh?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cThat you definitely might.\u201d<\/p>\n

Oren\u2019s brows drew together and he dropped into the seat Adam offered.<\/p>\n

\u201cDo you even know how to dance?\u201d Adam asked as he sat down.<\/p>\n

Oren\u2019s face lit up. \u201cDo I?! I\u2019ll show ya.\u201d Popping excitedly out of the chair, Oren began to bounce around in a very chaotic way, Adam wincing at more than his ribs. A few moments later Oren returned to his chair, out of breath. \u201cWhat about that?\u201d He smiled at Adam who tried to keep his fake smile from turning into a grimace.<\/p>\n

\u201cO-k-a-y,\u201d Adam finally answered, Oren\u2019s face falling at the tone and the look.<\/p>\n

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

Adam quickly patted Oren\u2019s arm. \u201cIt\u2019s not that it isn\u2019t good,\u201d he began trying to gloss over the complete badness of what he\u2019d just seen, \u201cit\u2019s just that it\u2019s different than what happens at these dances.\u201d Whew! I need to bottle that for future use<\/em>. \u201cIf I could teach you a dance or two before Saturday, you could\u00a0 . . .\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cI could cut in on you!\u201d Oren finished excited again.<\/p>\n

\u201cExactly,\u201d Adam said with a smile.<\/p>\n

\u201cYa think that could work?\u201d he asked, his smile returning to his face.<\/p>\n

\u201cWe can try. Are you game?\u201d<\/p>\n

Oren fidgeted suddenly supremely aware of what little he had to offer her. \u201cWell, I ain\u2019t never danced fancy like. I don\u2019t know . . .\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cM-i-s-s B-e-n-i-t-a,\u201d was all Adam said, dragging out her name and wiggling his brows.<\/p>\n

Oren smiled again. \u201cOkay, let\u2019s try.\u201d<\/p>\n

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

\u201cOw!\u201d<\/p>\n

Adam sat in the blue chair with his head in his hands flinching at the oft-repeated sound. Roping Hoss into helping hadn\u2019t been hard, he was after all just a bit taller than Benita, (Joe being too short), but after the last few hours Adam didn\u2019t know how long he\u2019d be able to keep his brother going. Sighing, he watched Hoss limp over to the large red leather chair and fall into it, holding onto his foot.<\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019m really sorry, Hoss,\u201d Oren said following after him.<\/p>\n

\u201cI know you is, Oren. Ya don\u2019t have ta keep sayin\u2019 it.\u201d<\/p>\n

Throwing himself on the settee, Oren\u2019s face fell into his hands. \u201cI\u2019m jest not cut out fer this fancy footwork,\u201d he moaned. \u201cI don\u2019t think this is gonna work, Adam.\u201d The sounds of three men sighing filled the room.<\/p>\n

\u201cYou can\u2019t give up, Mr. Oren,\u201d came Hop Sing\u2019s voice making them all look up. He moved out into the great room looking at the three gloomy men deciding he needed to step in. \u201cThe path to true love is fraught with danger. You must be strong.\u201d<\/p>\n

Oren had that look again and Adam put his hand over his mouth. \u201cFraught?\u201d<\/p>\n

Hop Sing opened his mouth then closed it again throwing a look toward Adam.<\/p>\n

\u201cWhat good are pearls of wisdom if no one gets them?\u201d Hoss laughed as Adam bit his lip watching Hop Sing grab Oren\u2019s hand and deposit a cup of tea within it, pushing it towards his mouth.<\/p>\n

\u201cDrink. Will make you light on your<\/u><\/em> feet not Mr. Hoss\u2019s,\u201d insisted Hop Sing.<\/p>\n

\u201cWhat is it?\u201d Oren asked wrinkling his nose at the odd smell.<\/p>\n

\u201cTea. Cure everything. Drink.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cTea? That\u2019s fer sissies.\u201d<\/p>\n

Hop Sing\u2019s eyes narrowed and Hoss immediately broke in. \u201cYou\u2019d better drink it, Oren,\u201d he said, \u201cor he\u2019ll pester ya good \u2018til ya do.\u201d<\/p>\n

Oren glanced at Adam who shrugged. \u201cCouldn\u2019t hurt.\u201d He took one last look at Hop Sing who motioned him to drink, waiting there until he did. Reluctantly he took a sip, the worry lines creasing his face smoothing out after the first gulp. \u201cThat\u2019s tasty,\u201d he said.<\/p>\n

\u201cOf course,\u201d Hop Sing said. \u201cNow drink all. I bring more. You need lots of light feet.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Saturday Night<\/u><\/em>\u00a0<\/em><\/strong><\/p>\n

\u201cOkay, Oren, here they come,\u201d Hoss said, the two of them secreted outside the dance hall watching as Adam pulled the buggy to a stop, carefully easing himself to the ground then just as carefully helping Benita out, yelping only once as she stepped on his foot.<\/p>\n

\u201cShe sure looks purty,\u201d Oren stated with a dreamy smile.<\/p>\n

Hoss shook him. \u201cYa don\u2019t have time for that right now, Oren,\u201d Hoss stated. \u201cNow, ya remember what ya gotta do?\u201d<\/p>\n

Oren nodded. \u201cWait \u2018til Adam gives me the sign then tap him on the shoulder and cut in nice like ya showed me then dance the night away with Miss Benita.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cThat\u2019s right, Oren. My bruised feet are countin\u2019 on ya, son. Just remember to wait for Adam\u2019s sign.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cI will. Thanks, Hoss.\u201d He shook Hoss\u2019 hand, straightened his oversized jacket (borrowed from Joe) and headed toward the backside of the hall. Hoss took a deep breath and moseyed on past Adam, winking at him then disappearing into the crowd. Adam took a breath, grinned at Benita and stepped inside.<\/p>\n

Music filled the air along with flying dresses and grinning people, all of them, down to Jeb Trunkett on the fiddle, glancing their way as they entered.<\/p>\n

Adam felt Benita stiffen and squeezed her hand. \u201cDon\u2019t worry,\u201d he whispered to her. \u201cYou\u2019re going to wow them with that pretty dress of yours.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cDo you really think so?\u201d she asked glancing toward him and running her hand nervously across her middle. \u201cIt\u2019s not too gaudy?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cNonsense.\u201d He grinned scanning the crowd. \u201cWhy look at Angela Porter over there by Dan Jergens. Now that\u2019s gaudy.\u201d<\/p>\n

Benita looked and giggled, covering her mouth. \u201cIt looks like all of Mr. Gardner\u2019s bead selection blew up on her.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cExactly. And Miss Teresa Banks by the back exit talking to Joe, too plain. And then there\u2019s Polly Smeed.\u201d He leaned in close and whispered. \u201cWell, she just looks like a saloon girl.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cShe is<\/u><\/em> a saloon girl, Adam,\u201d Benita whispered back.<\/p>\n

\u201cI know, but she doesn\u2019t have to look like one outside work.\u201d He smiled at her and she gave him a small laugh seeing the twinkle in his eyes.<\/p>\n

\u201cYou\u2019re bad.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cVery,\u201d he answered conspiratorially. \u201cNow, what say we proceed with caution and take it slow? You don\u2019t want me keeling over on you out there.\u201d Taking a step forward, he was brought up short when she failed to move, his ribs reminding him they still had power over him. Grabbing his side, he moved back to stand next to her. \u201cWhat\u2019s the matter?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cI know I was the one who wanted to come, but now that I\u2019m here . . .\u00a0 Oh, I\u2019ve already stepped on your toes. Are you sure you want to do this?\u201d<\/p>\n

He grabbed her other hand and looked her in the eye. \u201cAm I, Adam Cartwright, being turned away?\u201d he asked. \u201cYou\u2019ll ruin my reputation, Miss Benita.\u201d<\/p>\n

Looking back at him, she knew he was kidding and loved him all the more for it.<\/p>\n

Inwardly she sighed. Her schoolgirl crush remained in full bloom and would do so forever. And she wasn\u2019t so deluded to think that she even had a chance with this tall, dark and handsome man who was just so, well, tall, dark and handsome. But having him as a friend would do just fine.<\/p>\n

She was taking too long to answer and Adam moved in closer, a serious tone to his voice. \u201cBenita, if you\u2019d rather leave that\u2019s fine with me. I don\u2019t want to make you feel uncomfortable.\u201d<\/p>\n

She heard his words then looked over the crowd of annoyed young ladies and decided that whatever they thought, or whatever they would say tomorrow, she had the best looking man on her arm tonight. Go for it!<\/p>\n

\u201cLet\u2019s go,\u201d she finally answered practically dragging him onto the dance floor.<\/p>\n

Gracefully recovering, he followed after her, ignoring the humorous looks he was receiving from the assembled ladies. He liked to think it was his black eye, which was now turning a fashionable shade of yellowish purple and not his date that was causing the whispers and smiles. He searched the crowd for Oren. Finally spotting him near the punch bowl, hiding behind a plant, he looked away when Oren waved, trying not to roll his eyes. Returning his attention to Benita, he smiled at her as they moved into the rhythm of the dance.<\/p>\n

It occurred to Adam about halfway through that no harm had come to him or anyone else for that matter. Did he dare tempt fate and bring it up or keep the observation to himself? Oh, why not.<\/p>\n

\u201cBenita,\u201d he began, his insides cringing at what might follow, \u201cwe\u2019ve been out here twirling around and not once has anything gone awry.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cI didn\u2019t want to say anything,\u201d she admitted shyly. \u201cIt must have been all those dance lessons I took when I was away at school. I thought if I could control one thing in my life maybe other things would fall into place.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cIt seems to have worked.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cI don\u2019t have problems when I\u2019m sewing or teaching either, just when I\u2019m out in the world meeting people,\u201d she said with a wave of her hand.<\/p>\n

\u201cMaybe it\u2019s because you don\u2019t have to think about it. Its second nature to you; you don\u2019t have to try because you know you can.\u201d<\/p>\n

They stopped as the music did and she turned to him. \u201cYou\u2019re very smart, Mr. Cartwright.\u201d<\/p>\n

He mirrored her smile and then noticed that that smile seemed to be running away with her face. She was either melting or he was about to pass out.<\/p>\n

\u201cAre you all right? Adam?\u201d she asked her smile fading as she noticed the color draining from his face.<\/p>\n

\u201cAh, I think I should probably sit down for a minute.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cOh, my.\u201d Grabbing his arm, she led him quickly toward one of the settees against the wall, motioning people aside as she settled him down, stepping on Mr. Gardner\u2019s foot in her hurry. Memories of the gravy boat mishap descended upon him and he beat a hasty retreat.<\/p>\n

Benita pulled a kerchief from her sleeve and handed it to Adam who nodded his thanks and wiped his brow, looking towards the rear of the building to see if he could catch Oren\u2019s eye. Now would be the perfect time for him to make his play. But all Adam\u2019s eyes fell on was a large fellow with a scraggly beard and a patched shirt eyeing him back, the sight interrupted as Hoss came into view.<\/p>\n

\u201cYou all right, Adam?\u201d Hoss asked, dragging Sadie Young behind him. \u201cI saw Miss Benita pull ya off the floor.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cI just got a little lightheaded.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cI just danced his feet off,\u201d Benita said with slight laugh. \u201cOh, not literally,\u201d she finished.<\/p>\n

Hoss smiled and turned to Adam. \u201cIf\u2019n ya want to go, just say the word.<\/p>\n

\u201cNo, no, I\u2019ll be fine as long as I rest a bit.\u201d He eyed Hoss and inclined his head towards the back of the building.<\/p>\n

Hoss\u2019 brows came together then flew apart. \u201cGotcha. Come on, Sadie. There startin\u2019 the Reel.\u201d<\/p>\n

Adam watched Hoss move onto the floor always amazed at how light on his feet he was, whirling Sadie about, both grinning from ear to ear, working his way towards the back.<\/p>\n

\u201cYou have such nice brothers, Adam,\u201d Benita said a bit wistfully.<\/p>\n

\u201cYou\u2019ve got yourself a nice couple of brothers, too, Benita.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cThat\u2019s true. But I\u2019m kinda the black sheep.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cYou?\u201d he said with a short laugh. \u201cAfter what Dillon did last year?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cOh, that was nothing,\u201d she said.<\/p>\n

\u201cNothing,\u201d Adam restated. \u201cHe practically burned down Virginia City.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cTrue, that brother of mine is always getting into trouble.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cThen why do you consider yourself the black sheep?\u201d<\/p>\n

She sighed and patted his hand. \u201cBecause all I have to do is almost kill a Cartwright, in the street, in front of everyone, and I\u2019m back in the news.\u201d<\/p>\n

He grabbed her hand. \u201cYou didn\u2019t almost kill me,\u201d he said, rubbing the back of his head. \u201cIt was the shovels, the rocks . . .\u201d\u00a0 His voice trailed off and he gave her another smile. \u201cDon\u2019t go feeling sorry for yourself, Benita. You\u2019re a beautiful dancer, a trained educator and a great seamstress. Don\u2019t sell yourself short. I bet there\u2019s a few men here tonight who are wanting to dance a time or two with you.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cNow, Adam, don\u2019t go making up stories just to make me feel better.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019m not. Take Brian Dinker over by the window. He keeps looking this way, or Caleb Johnston by the front door, or even . . .\u201d\u00a0 He\u2019d started to say Oren Fudge by the punch bowl but what met his gaze was that large fellow with a scraggly beard and a patched shirt. \u201cOr even someone else,\u201d he finished lamely.<\/p>\n

\u201cOh, Adam, you\u2019re to kind.\u201d<\/p>\n

He gave her a weak grin and the both of them watched the dancers for a spell, Adam spying Hoss finally making his way toward the punch bowl, glancing toward the plant by the back door. He looked back toward Adam and shook his head. Where the hell was he?<\/p>\n

\u201cAre you feeling better?\u201d she asked, startling him.<\/p>\n

\u201cI believe I am,\u201d he answered, handing her back her kerchief. \u201cBetter enough for another turn.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cI think it\u2019s a slow one coming up.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cThe slower the better in my condition,\u201d he admitted pushing himself up and hiding a wince. Holding out his arm the two made their way back to the floor.<\/p>\n

The music started and the two of them began to dance, Adam continuing to glance over toward the punch bowl. Where was Oren?! His eyes fell, once again, on that large fellow. This time the man reacted, slamming down his cup of punch on the table and walking straight for them. Adam tried to move her out of the way but Benita plowed right into the man and stomped on his foot. Letting out a whoop, the large fellow grabbed his wounded appendage as snickers arose about them. This evening was going south with each passing minute.<\/p>\n

\u201cSee here, good man,\u201d Adam began having to tilt his head back to look him in the eye for he towered above him. This was not a good idea. \u201cUnless you plan to cut in,\u201d he asked hopefully, \u201cyou\u2019d better step aside.\u201d<\/p>\n

The large fellow dropped his foot and glared at Adam. \u201cYou keep makin\u2019 goo-goo eyes at me, mister, and I don\u2019t like it,\u201d he announced.<\/p>\n

\u201cWhat?\u201d Adam asked, all gallantry gone in a flash by the dropping open of his mouth.<\/p>\n

\u201cYou been lookin\u2019 at me all night. Now stop it or I\u2019ll just have ta punch ya.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cI wasn\u2019t . . .\u201d\u00a0 Think fast. \u201cI was looking out the window. It looked like rain earlier.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cYou cain\u2019t see nothin\u2019 out that tiny window.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cIf that\u2019s what he says he was doing,\u201d Benita cut in, suddenly emboldened, \u201cthen that\u2019s what he was doing.\u201d She held her chin out in defiance to this rude individual.<\/p>\n

\u201cBenita . . .\u201d Adam began, a warning in his voice. The large fellow glared at her then turned back to Adam.<\/p>\n

\u201cKeep yer woman quiet. I\u2019m talkin\u2019 ta you<\/u><\/em>.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cNow just a minute, sir,\u201d Adam began, pulling himself to his full height and readying himself for a fight, when he saw Benita out of the corner of his<\/u><\/em> eye narrow hers<\/u><\/em>. Ah oh. A warning popped into his head and was just about out his mouth when the large fellow began hopping and hollering in pain, both arms holding onto his right foot.<\/p>\n

\u201cThat was on purpose!\u201d Benita shouted to be heard over his baying dropping her skirt back to the floor. Turning back to Adam she noted his surprised look. \u201cWell, I had to do it, Adam. You\u2019re in no condition to take on a man that size.\u201d<\/p>\n

When she was right, she was right. \u201cVery true. Now, we need to disappear.\u201d<\/p>\n

Glancing at the large fellow, she quickly grabbed his outstretched hand. \u201cI agree.\u201d<\/p>\n

They started for the door, leaving laughter in their wake then a hushed silence and Adam knew what was coming. Stopping in mid-step as a large hand descended upon his shoulder, he cringed.<\/p>\n

\u201cJust a minute there, fancy pants,\u201d the large fellow bellowed.<\/p>\n

I should have listened to Paul, <\/em>thought Adam.<\/p>\n

\u201cNO YOU DON\u2019T!\u201d Adam heard Benita yell then saw her deliver a full left cross toward the man. Too busy being impressed by her form, Adam didn\u2019t see the large fellow lean back until it was too late and Benita\u2019s left cross crossed towards him and landed on his<\/u><\/em> face sending him sprawling to the floor. \u201cOh!\u201d she was heard to exclaim, hands to her face as her tall, dark and handsome man slid along the floor to lie still against the far wall.<\/p>\n

The large fellow began to laugh until he felt someone poking him on the back. Turning, his face met up with Hoss\u2019 fist and he dropped to the floor, coming to rest against Oren Fudge\u2019s feet.<\/p>\n

\u201cWhat\u2019d I miss?\u201d Oren was heard to say as the large fellow shook his head and flung himself at Hoss, the two colliding with the long table at the side of the room – the table that held Mrs. Henry Gardner\u2019s brand new crystal punch bowl.<\/p>\n

Shrieking, Mrs. Gardner scrambled through the gawking crowd toward her precious bowl, following it as it moved from one end of the table to the other all the while sloshing punch all over her white linen tablecloth and the floor.<\/p>\n

\u201cOh, Lordy,\u201d Mr. Gardner was heard to say as the crowd egged on the combatants. Benita held Adam\u2019s head in her lap, gently tapping his face, trying to wake him up while Joe took bets on his other brother\u2019s bout near the back door.<\/p>\n

The large fellow gave Hoss a good one to the stomach, then the chin, then watched him bounce back into the table, Mrs. Gardner\u2019s fingers almost connecting with the bowl as it moved out of reach. Moving swiftly to his feet, Hoss tackled the large fellow, the both of them rolling into the crowd only to be tossed back into the room by said crowd eager to continue the fight. The last straw came when both men grabbed each other and tumbled directly into the table toppling it over and sending the punch bowl flying into the air.<\/p>\n

It was said that time seemed to slow as Hoss kicked the unconscious man off him and Mrs. Gardner plucked her wayward bowl out of the air only to slip and shower Hoss with any remaining punch left . . . along with the bowl that flew from her slippery hands.<\/p>\n

Silence filled the room for a full minute as the brawlers lay quiet then Jeb Trunkett picked up his fiddle and began playing. Joe collected his bets and the crowd returned to the dance floor.<\/p>\n

\u201cWhat\u2019s goin\u2019 on here?\u201d Sheriff Roy Coffee said from the doorway, glancing down at an unconscious Adam and Hoss and an unknown large fellow flat on the dance floor. He shook his head. \u201cI don\u2019t really want to know,\u201d he mumbled with a shake of his head, motioning some of the men to help. \u201cMiss Benita, you stay here until we can get everyone situated.\u201d He smiled at her and followed the boys carrying Adam out the door.<\/p>\n

\u201cUm,\u201d came a voice behind her as she moved out of the way for Hoss, then the large fellow. \u201cUm,\u201d came the voice again making her turn. Oren Fudge, all dandied up, stood behind her. Hm, he cleans up nice. \u201cIs it too late ta ask ya ta dance, Miss Benita?\u201d he asked with a toothy grin, Jeb Trunkett\u2019s fiddle going on in the background. The hairs on the back of Oren\u2019s neck stiffened up at the look she gave him. He swallowed hard and shut his trap.<\/p>\n

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

\u201cDid I not tell you you shouldn\u2019t be dancing, young man?\u201d Paul Martin asked holding onto Adam\u2019s shoulder, glancing over at Ben who leaned against the wall, hand over his mouth.<\/p>\n

\u201cYes,\u201d was all Adam would admit, feeling his teeth to make sure they were all seated properly with one hand while the other held his ribs.<\/p>\n

Paul nodded. \u201cAnd did you listen to your family doctor?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cNo,\u201d Adam responded as Paul shook his head.<\/p>\n

\u201cNo,\u201d Paul repeated.\u00a0 \u201cAnd what happened?\u201d Adam cleared his throat as if to speak and then just didn\u2019t continuing to massage his chin.<\/p>\n

\u201cIt wasn\u2019t Adam\u2019s fault, Paul,\u201d Hoss broke in, holding an ice pack to the top of his head, his nice white shirt now the color of punch. Joe leaned back in the settee giggling. \u201cOren just wasn\u2019t where he was supposed ta be and, well, Adam kept eyeing that big fella who took offense.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cA big fella?\u201d Ben asked, looking at his middle son.<\/p>\n

\u201cBig,\u201d Joe added, holding his hand up in the air. \u201cBig fella.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cHe left before ya got here, Pa,\u201d Hoss added.<\/p>\n

Ben knew he had to ask this question even though he didn\u2019t know if he really wanted an answer. \u201cAnd why did this \u2018big fella\u2019 take offense?\u201d<\/p>\n

Hoss squinched up his face and swallowed, glancing over at Adam who offered no help.<\/p>\n

\u201cWell, ya see, Pa, he thought . . .\u00a0 Well, he thought Adam was . . .\u00a0 Well . . .\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cWell what?\u201d<\/p>\n

Hoss looked terribly uncomfortable and pulled at his sticky shirt. \u201cWell, Pa, he thought Adam was . . .\u201d\u00a0 His voice trailed off not quite sure how to put it.<\/p>\n

\u201cMaking a pass at him,\u201d Joe finished trying to keep a straight face.<\/p>\n

Adam just shut his eyes and sighed while Ben desperately tried to keep the grin off his own face.<\/p>\n

\u201cAnd Miss Benita, well, she\u2019s got a wicked left cross,\u201d Hoss continued. \u201cWouldn\u2019t ya say so, Adam?\u201d Hoss gave his brother a grin that wasn\u2019t returned.<\/p>\n

\u201cCan we just go home?\u201d Adam wanted to know, fully aware that his matchmaking ability obviously was, well, crap.<\/p>\n

\u201cNo,\u201d Paul said. \u201cYou\u2019re staying here tonight.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cI-feel-fine,\u201d Adam said enunciating each word and easing himself off the bed. Before his knees hit the floor, Paul and Ben grabbed him and placed him firmly back on the bed.<\/p>\n

\u201cNot listening to your doctor again,\u201d Paul tsked him, holding Adam until he caught his breath, then turned towards Hoss. \u201cNow, you, young man,\u201d he began tenderly poking the lump on his head. \u201cYou can go home. Take it easy for a couple of days, no work, and you should be fine.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cA couple of days!\u201d Joe exclaimed.<\/p>\n

\u201cA couple of days, Joe. Getting hit in the head with a regular punch bowl may only warrant a few hours rest, but a crystal punch bowl is completely different.\u201d<\/p>\n

Hoss raised his brows then smiled at Joe as only a brother can when he knew what Paul\u2019s declaration meant – Joe would have to do not only his own chores but Adam\u2019s and Hoss\u2019 as well.<\/p>\n

\u201cSomebody bonk me so\u2019s I can get a vacation, too,\u201d Joe whined.<\/p>\n

\u201cDr. Martin?\u201d came Benita\u2019s voice from the door making everyone jump.<\/p>\n

\u201cNow\u2019s your chance, Joe,\u201d Hoss whispered, watching him move his feet quickly onto the settee.<\/p>\n

\u201cIn here, Miss Benita,\u201d Paul called, realizing his error with the instrument tray the other day, now standing on the other side of Adam\u2019s bed instead. Ben smiled courteously at her then quickly stepped away to stand next to Joe not willing to take any chances.<\/p>\n

\u201cOh, Adam,\u201d she said holding her hand to her mouth as she spied the large lump already forming on the side of his face. She turned toward Ben. \u201cI\u2019m afraid I\u2019ve injured your son again<\/u><\/em>, Mr. Cartwright. I didn\u2019t intend too it\u2019s just that that man got me so mad. I didn\u2019t know he was going to duck.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cThat\u2019s all right, Miss Benita,\u201d Ben began. \u201cDon\u2019t you worry now. Adam\u2019ll be just fine.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cOh, I should just lock myself up and never come out,\u201d she stated in obvious distress.<\/p>\n

\u201cNonsense,\u201d Ben said stepping towards her, ignoring Joe clutching at his sleeve. \u201cFrom what I heard you were only doing what was necessary,\u201d he began holding onto her shoulders. \u201cIn his condition, you may have saved Adam greater injury. Did you ever think of that?\u201d<\/p>\n

Adam opened his mouth to comment but Paul shushed him, directing his attention toward Ben as he stepped closer to Benita\u2019s infamous feet, Joe and Hoss angling their heads to watch what they knew was coming. If they\u2019d been alone they would\u2019ve taken bets.<\/p>\n

\u201cDo you really think so, Mr. Cartwright?\u201d she asked looking into his kind face.<\/p>\n

\u201cYes, I do. In fact, as a thank you, why don\u2019t you come out to the house next Saturday? We\u2019re having a get-together and I can\u2019t think of a nicer person to have around.\u201d<\/p>\n

She beamed, looking from Joe to Hoss then Adam. \u201cReally?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cYes. One of the boys\u2019ll pick you up around 6:30pm.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cOh, thank you, Mr. Cartwright. I\u2019d be delighted.\u201d She reached in to hug him and everyone cringed but nothing untoward occurred. Turning, she looked toward Adam.<\/p>\n

\u201cSee you on Saturday, Benita,\u201d Adam said with a smile while she grinned, turning toward the exit. Paul sighed as that same table rolled into the surgery again sans the new vase he\u2019d just purchased at Mr. Gardner\u2019s store.<\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019ve got to stop decorating,\u201d the doctor whispered as Ben turned to his sons.<\/p>\n

\u201cI don\u2019t know why you boys seem to have trouble with her. Nothing happened.\u201d Ben gave them all a wise smile, seeing Joe\u2019s attention drawn toward Paul\u2019s office window.<\/p>\n

\u201cAh, Pa,\u201d Joe began, a sickly smile on his face.<\/p>\n

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

\u201cIsn\u2019t that Buck?\u201d Looking past Joe and out the window, Ben caught the tail end of his horse disappearing from sight. Without a word, he ran from Paul\u2019s office, all of them watching as he ran past the window yelling down the street.<\/p>\n

\u201cSorry about that, Mr. Cartwright!\u201d floated into the office as Benita made her way down the street. Joe burst out laughing, followed by Hoss as Adam grabbed his ribs, trying to restrain himself as best he could. Paul just shook his head.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Sunday Morning<\/u><\/em><\/p>\n

\u201cI got hot, Adam,\u201d Oren explained looking at everything in Paul\u2019s office but him.<\/p>\n

Hoss looked up from where he was helping his brother with his boots. \u201cHot?\u201d<\/p>\n

Oren glanced at Hoss. \u201cWell, it was hot in that corner and I had to use the necessary bein\u2019 nervous an\u2019 all, an\u2019 that big fella kept givin\u2019 me the eye. Made me nervous. Well, the next thing I know\u2019d you was on the floor and that big fella, well, he practically slid right into me. It was then I said what I said.\u201d<\/p>\n

Adam eyed him, buttoning his shirt taking second to his desire, however later regretted, to find out what Oren had said. He let out a breath. \u201cWhat did you say?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cWell . . .\u201d Oren stammered fiddling with his hat.<\/p>\n

\u201cOren.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cWell, I asked Miss Benita if she\u2019d like to dance.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cYou asked her to dance?\u201d Adam repeated.<\/p>\n

\u201cI did. And she got so mad. Her face turned as red as her dress.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cYou asked her to dance with both Hoss and I lying on the floor?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cAh, yessir,\u201d Oren repeated a bit quieter than before.<\/p>\n

Adam turned to Hoss. \u201cAnd I wonder why this isn\u2019t working.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cAs soon as I said it, I know\u2019d it was wrong,\u201d Oren jumped in. \u201cBut it was too late. I couldn\u2019t suck the words back in. What am I gonna do, Adam?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cI don\u2019t know,\u201d Adam admitted, finishing with his shirt and easing himself off the bed, Hoss holding his arm just in case.<\/p>\n

\u201cBut ya gotta know, Adam. Ya know everything.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cWhy don\u2019t ya just try talkin\u2019 to her, Oren?\u201d Hoss asked placing Adam\u2019s hat gently on his head as Oren\u2019s face squished into disbelief.<\/p>\n

\u201cTalkin\u2019?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cYa, Oren, talkin\u2019 like we\u2019re doin\u2019 now,\u201d Hoss said. \u201cNormal like.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cOh, what would I talk ta her about?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cI don\u2019t know. Ask her about her schoolin\u2019 or the weather.\u201d<\/p>\n

Oren shook his head. \u201cOh, no, I couldn\u2019t do that.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cWhy not?\u201d Adam asked willing to hear the answer to this one.<\/p>\n

\u201c\u2019Cause I\u2019d have to talk to<\/u><\/em> her to do that.\u201d<\/p>\n

Hoss opened his mouth then closed it trading a look with Adam who hadn\u2019t a clue.<\/p>\n

\u201cOh, I\u2019ve spoken to her before but they was just pleasantries. I don\u2019t have the schoolin\u2019 like she does, like you do, Adam, to keep up a conversation. I only know about plantin\u2019 and harvestin\u2019. No gal like Miss Benita\u2019s gonna be interested in that.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cHow do you know?\u201d Adam asked as Hoss helped him with his coat.<\/p>\n

\u201cOh, don\u2019t go teasin\u2019 me, Adam.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019m not. She\u2019s a teacher, Oren, and I\u2019ve found that teachers are interested in many things.\u201d Oren just shook his head.<\/p>\n

\u201cNo, I cain\u2019t do it. It\u2019ll make me look dumb.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cDumb? You\u2019ve already . . .\u201d Hoss began as Adam jabbed him in the ribs to shut him up.<\/p>\n

\u201cIf you can\u2019t talk to her now how else are you going to be able to tell her that you definitely . . . might . . . love her?\u201d Adam asked drawing a funny look from Hoss. \u201cLater,\u201d he mouthed.<\/p>\n

Oren looked up then directly at Adam and smiled. \u201cWell, I thought you . . .\u201d<\/p>\n

Adam\u2019s brows shot up and he held up a hand. \u201cOh, no. No, no, no,\u201d he said with a firm shake of his head finally understanding the path of this conversation.<\/p>\n

\u201cBut, Adam . . .\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cNo, Oren. My job as a matchmaker is over. You\u2019re on your own now.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cOh, please, Adam. Ya got them nice words and all . . .\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cNO!\u201d He held Oren\u2019s gaze and watched his happy face crumble.<\/p>\n

\u201cNow, Adam . . . ,\u201d Hoss began, Adam seeing that same lost puppy look on his brother\u2019s face as on Oren\u2019s. He knew fighting against that \u2018look\u2019 was near impossible. He sighed. It wasn\u2019t fair them taking advantage of his injured state. \u201cAll right. All right. I\u2019ll think of something.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cOh, thank you, Adam,\u201d Oren said, grabbing his hand to shake. \u201cYou won\u2019t regret this.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cI already do,\u201d he said, holding his ribs, all of them turning as Ben entered the room.<\/p>\n

\u201cReady to go home?\u201d Ben asked, everyone ignoring the scraps up the right side of his face. Hoss leaned over to pick up his own hat to hide his smile as best he could.<\/p>\n

\u201cPlease,\u201d was all Adam could get out as he eased himself past Oren and his father, hiding his own grin.<\/p>\n

\u201cWhat happened ta yer face, Mr. Cartwright?\u201d Oren asked breaking the silence. A stony glance met his question.<\/p>\n

\u201cA slight mishap with my horse is all,\u201d Ben answered following Adam and Hoss out the door and into the morning sunshine.<\/p>\n

\u201cTry to be a stranger!\u201d Paul called after them as they made their way toward the wagon where Joe was fiddling with the horses\u2019 harnesses.<\/p>\n

\u201cAdam!\u201d came Benita\u2019s call from a few doors down making all of them turn. Forgetting the horses, Joe leaped into the wagon; Hoss struggled over the side, his head still ringing this morning.<\/p>\n

With no way to get Adam into the wagon quickly, Ben reached for Benita as she slid in the mud and pulled her to the side.<\/p>\n

\u201cMy!\u201d floated around them as she crashed into Ben, sending the backs of his legs hard against the wagon, making him yelp. Paul covered his face with his hand and peered through his fingers as Joe slapped a hand over his mouth to silence himself<\/p>\n

\u201cBenita,\u201d Adam said from around Ben\u2019s shoulder, glad that for once it wasn\u2019t him.<\/p>\n

\u201cHow are you feeling this morning?\u201d she asked getting her feet back under her. He grabbed his chin and moved it from side to side. \u201cI didn\u2019t know you had such a good left cross. You\u2019ve got to teach me that sometime.\u201d<\/p>\n

She blushed. \u201cI\u2019m so sorry about that, Adam.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cI should\u2019ve ducked,\u201d he answered.<\/p>\n

\u201cMornin\u2019, Miss Benita,\u201d Oren interrupted, smiling away at her from beside the wagon. She kept her eyes straight.<\/p>\n

\u201cMr. Fudge,\u201d was all she said. His face fell and he looked toward Adam who tilted his head toward her, spurring him on.<\/p>\n

\u201cI . . . ah, I . . .\u201d\u00a0 Oren cleared his throat. Now or never. \u201cI . . . I wanted to apologize for sayin\u2019 what I did last night. It wasn\u2019t gentlemanly.\u201d<\/p>\n

She shifted a look to him without turning her head. \u201cNo it wasn\u2019t.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cWell, I\u2019m right sorry, Miss Benita, truly I am, but I was just so enamored of yer dress,\u201d he said, his words tumbling over each other. Adam winced and Hoss shook his head. Oren glanced at them then back again, turning his hat in his hand and decided to plow on. \u201cIt . . . it was a . . . beautiful piece of tatting I\u2019ve seen in a long time.\u201d There. He\u2019d said it. Now she\u2019d never speak to him again.<\/p>\n

Benita began to reply then changed her mind, looking at Adam who gave her a lopsided grin. Joe\u2019s mouth dropped open as Ben and Hoss exchanged funny looks. Even Paul pulled his hand from his face.<\/p>\n

\u201cI mean that now,\u201d Oren said. \u201cWell, I\u2019ll be goin\u2019 . . .\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cWait, Oren,\u201d Benita started, not knowing where she was going with this. \u201cThat was a very nice thing to say.\u201d<\/p>\n

He smiled then and cleared his throat. \u201cI jest wanted ya to know I noticed. Did ya do that yerself?\u201d<\/p>\n

She stood a bit straighter. \u201cYes I did. How do you know about such things?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cMy Ma,\u201d he began. This talking thing wasn\u2019t so bad. \u201cShe\u2019s been sewin\u2019, lord, goin\u2019 on thirty years or more. Taught me a stitch or two. I was wonderin\u2019 if . . .\u201d he started, and then decided against it. \u201cAh, never mind.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cWondering what, Oren?\u201d she asked. He traded a look with Adam who nodded back, egging him on.<\/p>\n

\u201cWell, I was wonderin\u2019 if\u2019n ya\u2019d teach me some of that.\u201d Silence fell and they held their breaths, the boys thinking Oren may have overstepped himself.<\/p>\n

\u201cSewing is usually something a woman does. Wouldn\u2019t you find it awkward?\u201d<\/p>\n

He nodded before he could stop himself and cleared his throat again, fiddling with his hat. \u201cBeing truthful and all, I\u2019d find it right sissified, but a man\u2019s gotta learn a trade ta fall back on in case the harvest fails. Still gotta feed everyone.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cWell . . .\u201d she said with a slight hesitation casting a glance toward Adam who tilted his head toward Oren. \u201cI could use the help,\u201d she admitted, tapping her chin with her finger.<\/p>\n

\u201cWhat do ya mean, Miss Benita?\u201d Hoss asked.<\/p>\n

Her eyes brightened. \u201cOh, my news. Adam, you were right. Polly Smeed came to see me late last night.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cShe did?\u201d Adam said shocked at the admission.<\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019ve got my first order for a new dress.\u201d She giggled then narrowed her eyes at him.<\/p>\n

\u201cYou didn\u2019t have anything to do with that, did you?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cNot me,\u201d Adam said. \u201cI was knocked out on the floor remember?\u201d He glanced at Hoss and Joe and they both shook their heads. \u201cCongratulations. I told you everything would work out.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cYes, you did. Thank you so much, Adam,\u201d she said wrapping her arms about him in a rib-crushing hug. Paul felt for him as sweat popped out on his face. He gave her a pain filled reassuring smile as he held onto the wagon for support. \u201cThank you for everything.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cDon\u2019t mention it, Benita,\u201d he answered through clenched teeth as she let him go.<\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019ve got to get over to Mr. Gardner\u2019s. Polly\u2019s going to meet me there. Oh,\u201d she said stopping herself, \u201chopefully he\u2019ll let me back in since the gravy boat incident . . .\u00a0 No matter,\u201d she said waving the thought away. \u201cI must be going. I\u2019ve got work to do.\u201d She smiled at all of them and turned, Oren suddenly by her side.<\/p>\n

\u201cMind if I walk with you, Miss Benita.\u201d<\/p>\n

She thought on it a moment, then nodded. \u201cPlease do, Mr. Fudge.\u201d She started off without him and he turned and smiled at the Cartwrights.<\/p>\n

\u201cWell, lookee there,\u201d Hoss said. \u201cHe actually talked to her and see what happened?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cLooks like she might be taking a shine to Oren, Adam,\u201d Joe said with a grin. \u201cSorry for your loss.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cBenita\u2019s a good person. She just needs to have a little faith in herself,\u201d Adam said, Ben returning to help him into the wagon. A startled cry caught their attention and they all looked down the street. Oren lay flat in the muddy street as Benita stood on the sidewalk, a loose board from said sidewalk lying by his side.<\/p>\n

\u201cGoodness,\u201d they heard as Paul disappeared into his office only to reappear a few moments later, bag in hand.<\/p>\n

\u201cOnce more unto the breach,\u201d the doctor mumbled reaching the downed man just as he sat up.<\/p>\n

The Cartwright\u2019s tried to keep their laughter to a bare minimum as Oren decided he was all right despite the large bruise already forming across his forehead and would continue with Miss Benita to Mr. Gardner\u2019s store. Watching him walk in a none too straight line even made Paul smile.<\/p>\n

\u201cThat could be you, Adam,\u201d Joe said wistfully.<\/p>\n

\u201cThat was<\/u><\/em> me a week ago,\u201d he reminded them watching the two of them enter Mr. Gardner\u2019s store.<\/p>\n

\u201cThat could be all of us,\u201d Ben said, turning back to Joe. \u201cExcept Joe. How\u2019d you get so lucky?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cQuick on my feet,\u201d was his answer as he picked up the reins. Quite suddenly a loud shattering sound came from the area of Mr. Gardner\u2019s store and the horses reared yanking both the reins and Joe into the muddy street. Everyone could hear their loose harness flapping as they made their way down the street at a gallop.<\/p>\n

Hoss laid his head back and howled, doubling over as his youngest brother grabbed the side of the wagon with one muddy hand then the other, his dirt encrusted head following after.<\/p>\n

Paul just turned away and walked right into his office shaking his head. \u201cI saw nothing,\u201d he said, closing the door behind him.<\/p>\n

\u201cYou may be quick on yer feet, shortshanks,\u201d Hoss began through his laughter, \u201cbut yer hands need work.\u201d\u00a0 Joe gave Hoss an unhappy grin and listened as Ben broke out in laughter. Adam grabbed his ribs trying not to laugh.<\/p>\n

\u201cHa, ha, ha,\u201d was Joe\u2019s only response as he started dejectedly down the street after the wayward horses, drawing stares and laughs as he went, leaving his brothers and father to laugh themselves silly behind him.<\/p>\n

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

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

Summary: An old friend has returned home from school.\u00a0 Is that a good thing?<\/p>\n

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