{"id":15916,"date":"2018-01-27T11:31:42","date_gmt":"2018-01-27T16:31:42","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/?p=15916"},"modified":"2025-09-25T15:40:31","modified_gmt":"2025-09-25T19:40:31","slug":"bound-by-love-by-ac1830","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/?p=15916","title":{"rendered":"Bound by Love (by AC1830)"},"content":{"rendered":"

Summary –\u00a0<\/span>A young woman’s sudden departure from Virginia City leaves heartache and anger behind. After <\/span>an eight-year absence, she returns home hoping to reconcile with the ones she left behind.<\/span><\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Rating – T, Word Count – 9751<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Bound by Love <\/b><\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Chapter 1<\/b><\/p>\n

1870 – St. Louis, Missouri<\/b><\/p>\n

Etta Randolph sat in the doctor\u2019s office, nervously lacing and unlacing her fingers. \u00a0She knew the answers but when the doctor confirmed them, she still went cold inside. Her heart pounded and her thoughts raced with the news. \u00a0A month or two, maybe a bit more, to put her affairs in order\u2026.that wasn\u2019t much time. \u00a0Barely maintaining her composure, she thanked the doctor and left his office. \u00a0Letting out a deep sigh and attempting to put on a cheery face, she walked down the hall to the waiting room.<\/span><\/p>\n

Out in the waiting room a handsome boy ran into her arms. \u00a0Etta put on her best smile for her seven-year old son. \u00a0Here was her reason for living. She cupped her hands around his face and studied his warm, hazel eyes, then drew him into another hug. Remembering her promise for his good behavior, the two headed outside in search of an ice cream shop. \u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

The bright sky cheered Etta some, but feeling the softness of her son\u2019s hand in hers lightened her step and they strode down the walkway. \u201cScott, after we have our treat we\u2019re going to pack and take a trip. \u00a0We\u2019re going to visit your grandparents.\u201d \u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cIn Nevada? \u00a0Really? \u00a0Will there be cowboys and horses? \u00a0Can I ride one, Ma?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Etta grinned and nodded. Scott was beside himself with excitement. \u00a0He had always wanted to meet his grandparents but his mother had said that Nevada was too far from St. Louis. \u00a0She now told him it was a good time to go. \u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

A few days later they were on their way taking a couple of trains, then stagecoaches the rest of the way. \u00a0Young Scott took in every detail of the trip and talked a lot about being a cowboy and riding horses, and fishing with his grandfather. \u00a0Etta smiled and hugged her son. \u00a0He was the light of her life and no matter how sad or afraid she might be over her illness, little Scott always brought joy back to her heart. <\/span><\/p>\n

On the last part of the trip, Etta and Scott had the stagecoach to themselves. After so much excitement and feeling the effects of the long trip, Scott finally stretched out on the seat and fell asleep with his head resting in his mother\u2019s lap. \u00a0The rhythm of the coach over a smooth section of trail helped Etta to relax as well, and she began to think about what lay ahead. \u00a0It had been a difficult decision to leave all those years ago, and she felt she deserved her father\u2019s wrath. She was greatly concerned over her father\u2019s reaction upon her return but there was another she had hurt as well. \u00a0Would he ever be willing to forgive her actions? As Etta absent-mindedly stroked her son\u2019s dark hair, she thought back to the circumstances that led to her departure from her home and family. \u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Chapter 2<\/b><\/p>\n

Eight years earlier, 1862 – Virginia City, Nevada<\/i><\/b><\/p>\n

An unseasonably warm October day seemed to have brought everyone out of their homes in Virginia City. \u00a0Etta was surprised at how crowded the streets were when she arrived. \u00a0She had several errands to do for her mother, finishing up at the mercantile. Etta had just left the store with the weekly supplies for her mother and was placing the packages in the buggy when she saw Adam Cartwright heading up the boardwalk toward her. \u00a0He was caught up in conversation with his brother Hoss and hadn\u2019t seen her. \u00a0<\/span><\/i><\/p>\n

Being a shy, plain girl Etta never received much attention from the young men in town. \u00a0But the Cartwright brothers were different. \u00a0Her father, Zach Randolph, and Ben Cartwright had been good friends for years, so it just seemed natural that she became friends with the brothers. \u00a0She enjoyed their company at family dinners and church picnics. \u00a0Recently, some of the girls in town had become jealous of her friendship with the brothers and felt she was wasting an opportunity to be married to one of them. \u00a0In fact, a young lady with her eye on Adam made such a comment to Etta just before she left the mercantile. \u00a0<\/span><\/i><\/p>\n

\u201cAre you and Adam Cartwright courting? \u00a0I see you with him at all the socials but I can\u2019t believe he would be serious about some as plain as you Etta.\u201d \u00a0<\/span><\/i><\/p>\n

\u201cYou\u2019re mistaken, Caroline. Adam and I are just friends. \u00a0We have been for years.\u201d \u00a0<\/span><\/i><\/p>\n

\u201cWell, one might never know that by the way he looks at you at the church socials. \u00a0It\u2019s not fair for the girls who really have their sights set on him. \u00a0You need to quit spending all your time with him and let others have a chance.\u201d <\/span><\/i><\/p>\n

Etta shrugged off the girl\u2019s offending remarks, but now, having just seen Adam leisurely walking beside his brother, she was suddenly anxious to get home.<\/span><\/i><\/p>\n

Rushing to climb into the buggy, she stepped on her skirt and lost her balance. A hand gently took her arm and steadied her while she attempted to untangle her feet from her skirts. \u00a0<\/span><\/i><\/p>\n

\u201cThank you, I\u2019m fine now.\u201d \u00a0She turned and found herself face to face with Adam. \u00a0She noticed Hoss leaning on a hitching rail a few feet away. \u00a0<\/span><\/i><\/p>\n

\u201cAre you alright Etta? \u00a0You\u2019re not hurt are you?\u201d<\/span><\/i><\/p>\n

\u201cNo, actually I\u2019m fine. \u00a0Thank you for your assistance, Adam. \u00a0I better be going now. \u00a0My parents will be expecting me home.\u201d<\/span><\/i><\/p>\n

Adam assisted Etta into the buggy and noticed she was shaking. \u00a0\u201cOf course. \u00a0Etta, is something wrong?\u201d<\/span><\/i><\/p>\n

\u201cNo Adam, really I\u2019m fine. I thank you for your assistance.\u201d<\/span><\/i><\/p>\n

Adam released his hold on her hand. \u00a0\u201cI hope I\u2019ll see you at the Harvest dance this Saturday, then?\u201d<\/span><\/i><\/p>\n

Adam\u2019s warm smile caught Etta off guard. \u00a0Why hadn\u2019t she noticed those dimples before? \u00a0\u201cIn truth Adam I hadn\u2019t realized it was this Saturday. \u00a0I\u2019m sure Mama, Papa and I will be there. \u00a0Thank you for mentioning it.\u201d<\/span><\/i><\/p>\n

\u201cWonderful.\u201d \u00a0Still smiling, Adam stepped back from the buggy and tipped his hat to Etta. \u00a0She flicked the reins and drove toward home. \u00a0Adam watched after her until she turned a corner, and then he continued on into the mercantile with Hoss lumbering behind. <\/span><\/i><\/p>\n

Etta\u2019s ride home was anything but peaceful. \u00a0She should have enjoyed the beautiful weather but her thoughts were in turmoil over her encounter with Adam in town. \u00a0Caroline\u2019s words in the store kept coming back to her and were mixing with Adam\u2019s warm smile at the buggy. \u00a0\u00a0By the time Etta arrived home she was in a quandary about Adam. Having been friends with him for so long she\u2019d never taken time to realize just how handsome and kind he was. \u00a0When he gently touched her arm it had sent chills through her. \u00a0Had Caroline\u2019s observations been correct? \u00a0Was Adam\u2019s interest in Etta more than friendship? As Etta brought the buggy into the yard her mind was scrambling to find an excuse not to go to the dance but her heart was saying otherwise. \u00a0<\/span><\/i><\/p>\n

The Harvest Dance was a big celebration in town and she knew her parents wouldn\u2019t allow her to miss it. \u00a0As it turned out, it was the start of a new and deeper friendship with Adam. \u00a0She had danced with several young men and the Cartwright brothers that night but found Adam to be the most cordial. \u00a0He never pushed her to do anything. \u00a0In fact they spent quite a bit of time partaking of the food and talking. \u00a0Both discovered they had many things in common such as books, music, and Etta\u2019s cooking. \u00a0Etta had brought two pies and a large container of venison stew. \u00a0It was all she could do to keep Adam from going back for thirds and not leaving some for other guests. \u00a0During the weeks after the dance, they attended other social and church functions. \u00a0By the time of the annual Cartwright Christmas party, their relationship was becoming serious. <\/span><\/i><\/p>\n

In January, Adam had made plans to officially ask Etta\u2019s father for permission to court her. \u00a0Etta was so nervous when Adam arrived but her mother, Martha, quickly took control, suggesting she and Etta head to the barn to see to an injured horse. \u00a0An hour later, Etta was hugging everyone as her father delivered his blessing on the courtship and marriage. Before Adam left, a June wedding had been chosen, with an official announcement to be made by mid-February. <\/span><\/i><\/p>\n

The months seemed to fly by with Adam and Etta spending as much of their time together as possible, in spite of winter snows and spring ranch duties. \u00a0Their love deepened and both were finding it difficult to wait until June. \u00a0In early May, Etta began to feel overwhelmed with the final preparations for the wedding. \u00a0She felt tired all the time, irritable, and was losing her patience with everyone. \u00a0Becoming concerned by the changes in her daughter Martha suggested Etta visit Doctor Martin, to be sure she wasn\u2019t coming down with something. <\/span><\/i><\/p>\n

Etta did just that and Paul, after listening to her describe her symptoms, decided to run a few blood tests. \u00a0After a half hour of waiting in Paul\u2019s office, Etta finally got her answers, but they were not what she was expecting. \u00a0<\/span><\/i><\/p>\n

\u201cEtta, I\u2019m truly sorry. I\u2019m not sure what else to say. If it\u2019s what I think it is, I don\u2019t have the medicines to help you but there are doctors who do.\u201d Paul wrote some information on a piece of paper and handed it to Etta. \u00a0\u201cThe closest doctor is in St. Louis; he\u2019s a colleague of mine from back East. \u00a0I know your wedding to Adam is close so I recommend you travel there as soon after the wedding as possible. \u00a0I think it was discovered early enough that some treatments could work well.\u201d<\/span><\/i><\/p>\n

Unable to sit still any longer, Etta left her chair and headed for the door. \u00a0\u201cThank you Doctor Martin. \u00a0I…I\u2019ll consider your advice.\u201d<\/span><\/i><\/p>\n

\u201cEtta\u2026 you need to tell Adam right away. \u00a0He needs to know about this.\u201d \u00a0<\/span><\/i><\/p>\n

Etta nodded and, without another word, left the office. Once she was out of town she pulled the buggy off the road into a grassy area and let the tears come. After several minutes of uncontrollable sobbing, she steadied her breathing and tried to think of what to do. \u00a0How was she going to tell her parents or the Cartwrights? \u00a0She needed to see Adam but he was busy with roundup for two more weeks. Panic was setting in as she fingered the paper with the doctor\u2019s address on it. \u00a0St. Louis was so far away. \u00a0How could she marry Adam knowing she was sick\u2026.what kind of life would that mean for them, for their children\u2026..? \u00a0Etta let out a deep shuddering sigh; there seemed to be only one solution. <\/span><\/i><\/p>\n

As soon as she arrived home, she began packing. \u00a0Her parents were busy with other activities so she had the little house to herself. \u00a0She quickly packed all she could carry, gathered some money she had been saving and packed some food. \u00a0Finally, she wrote a letter for her parents and one for Adam, and left them on the table. Her heart broke with every word but it was the only path she could see. <\/span><\/i><\/p>\n

When she arrived in town, she was forced to wait several hours for the next stagecoach heading east. \u00a0When passengers started loading, her parents arrived. \u00a0Her mother was in tears and speechless, but her father had much to say. \u00a0He took her by the arms, right on the boardwalk, and shook her. \u00a0<\/span><\/i><\/p>\n

\u201cDaughter you are not gettin\u2019 on that stage. \u00a0What are ya thinkin\u2019, runnin\u2019 away like this? You dishonor my name actin\u2019 like this. If you\u2019re sick we\u2019ll see to your care an\u2019 so will Adam. How dare you do this to me, shame me like this!\u201d<\/span><\/i><\/p>\n

Etta pulled away from her father and climbed into the coach. \u00a0\u201cI\u2019m sorry Mama, Papa; it\u2019s the only thing I can do. \u00a0I promise I\u2019ll write to you. \u00a0Please tell Adam how sorry I am, and that I love him. I love you both.\u201d<\/span><\/i><\/p>\n

\u201cDaughter, I\u2019m not doin\u2019 your biddin\u2019. An\u2019 this isn\u2019t showin\u2019 your love for us either. If you leave now you might as well never come back!!\u201d <\/span><\/i><\/p>\n

Martha grabbed her husband\u2019s arm. \u00a0\u201cOh Zach you don\u2019t mean that!\u201d<\/span><\/i><\/p>\n

He shook his arm loose. \u00a0\u201cI do mean it, woman. \u00a0If our daughter can\u2019t face this with people who care, then I can no longer call her my daughter.\u201d \u00a0He turned his back on the stage.<\/span><\/i><\/p>\n

\u201cOh Zach! \u00a0No! \u00a0Etta please\u2026\u201d<\/span><\/i><\/p>\n

\u201cStage is leaving folks.\u201d<\/span><\/i><\/p>\n

A small group of curious onlookers had gathered and now they stared at the spectacle before them, Zach Randolph red-faced with anger, Martha openly weeping and Etta with deep sorrow in her eyes as the stagecoach pulled away. \u00a0Murmurings began to fill the silence in the street, as the onlookers began to connect the woman on the stage to the Cartwrights. \u00a0Zach grabbed Martha\u2019s arm and led her to their buckboard. \u00a0\u201cCome on woman. We\u2019ve got things ta do at home.\u201d \u00a0For Zach that was the end of the discussion. \u00a0Life would go on, without his daughter. \u00a0For Martha, her heart was torn in two. \u00a0Arriving at home, she left Zach to his work and took the buckboard over to the Ponderosa. \u00a0Instead of discussing the wedding it was going to be a somber time as she told Ben Cartwright what had just happened, hoping to find some resolution to the nightmare that had begun. <\/span><\/i><\/p>\n

In the following months, Etta had contacted her mother, letting her know how to reach her. They were the only ones who kept in touch and it was painful for both. Her mother had written that Adam had gone to St. Louis to look for Etta but, having not found her or the doctor, returned an empty man. Martha didn\u2019t tell her daughter about the rumors and gossip around town, which she believed led to Adam eventually spending more time in San Francisco. Just a few years later, he took a second home in San Francisco to handle the Ponderosa business from there. \u00a0Ben had said he came home every few weeks on business or to help with ranch duties. \u00a0That was the hardest thing for Etta to read. \u00a0A few weeks after leaving she knew she had done the wrong thing but then she found out that something more than her illness would keep her from traveling, so slowly time and events kept her in St. Louis much longer than she had planned. \u00a0With the doctor\u2019s recent news, she knew she had to return home and make things right, if it wasn\u2019t already too late. <\/span><\/i><\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Chapter 3<\/b><\/p>\n

1870<\/b><\/p>\n

The coach driver hollered down that Virginia City was near. \u00a0Etta took a deep breath as she begin to waken her son. So many years had passed now and Etta had managed to put most of her troubles behind her, but still she had regrets for her decision to leave. Watching her son stir and look around sleepily she had to smile. He was a beautiful, loving son who was her life, and she knew he was her only connection to her first and only love. \u00a0Etta knew it was past time to go home. She needed, no wanted, to see her family again and make sure there would be a home for Scott. \u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

The landscape began to change over to buildings signaling that they were on the outskirts of Virginia City. Etta became more excited and nervous. How would her parents receive her? \u00a0How would she tell them her illness hadn\u2019t been cured? \u00a0Seeing the town come into view also made her think of Adam. \u00a0Her mother said he never seemed to get over Etta\u2019s leaving. \u00a0Etta wondered if she would even see Adam, considering he was dividing his time between the Ponderosa and San Francisco. She wanted to make things right and ask his forgiveness for the unfair way she had treated him but she was also afraid to face his reaction. She knew she had hurt him badly.<\/span><\/p>\n

As the late afternoon sun sank lower toward the mountains, the stage came to a stop at the station and Scott fairly jumped out of the coach when the door was opened. He ran a short way down the boardwalk and back to the stage, eyes wide with excitement. \u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cMa, look at how big the town is. \u00a0Not as big as home but it\u2019s bigger than you described. \u00a0Look ma, cowboys! \u00a0Ma, when can I learn to ride a horse? \u00a0Will Grandfather be here to meet us?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Etta stepped from the coach and ruffled her son\u2019s hair. \u00a0\u201cScott, I know you\u2019re excited but we must get our bags and rent a buggy. There will be plenty of time to explore the town in the coming days. Come help me with the luggage, please.\u201d \u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Scott dutifully obeyed as the coach driver handed the bags down to the lad. The station master helped Etta hire someone to drive them to her home, and soon they were on their way to their final destination. <\/span><\/p>\n

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

When Etta finally reached her home night had enveloped them. \u00a0Scott had become silent as he leaned into her arm. \u00a0As the driver pulled into the yard Etta was pleased to see a lamp still lit in the main room. She was encouraged by the welcoming sight but her stomach was still in knots. She almost wished she’d waited until the next day. Slowing her breathing she asked that Scott remain with the driver for just a few minutes. \u00a0With more and more dread she walked to the door and knocked. \u00a0In seconds she found herself enwrapped by her mother\u2019s arms, tears streaking down both women\u2019s faces. \u00a0Finally separating, Etta turned and signaled for Scott to join her and for the driver to leave, after he deposited the luggage on the front porch. <\/span><\/p>\n

Etta put her arm proudly around Scott\u2019s shoulders as she spoke to her mother. \u00a0\u201cMama, this is Scott, your grandson. \u00a0Scott this is your grandmother.\u201d <\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cHello, grandmother.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cOh what a lovely child. \u00a0\u2018Grandmother\u2019 sounds so nice.\u201d \u00a0Martha bent down to look at Scott and give him a hug. \u00a0Hearing a sound behind her she turned and looked sheepishly at Ben Cartwright. She\u2019d completely forgotten he was still in the room. \u00a0Ben had been visiting since the afternoon and had been persuaded to stay for supper. Just before Etta arrived he and Zach had just finished their traditional arm wrestling contest and Zach had gone to fetch some water so Martha could wash the dishes. <\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cOh, Ben, forgive me. Etta?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cHello, Mister Cartwright.\u201d \u00a0She tried to look the man who would have been her father-in-law in the eye but couldn\u2019t. He at least had a warm smile for her. \u00a0\u00a0She did notice that he kept glancing at Scott then back at her. \u00a0Suddenly Scott was moving toward Ben\u2019s gun, which was hanging on the back of a chair. \u00a0Ben knelt down and patiently answered all of Scott\u2019s questions about it. \u00a0Etta couldn\u2019t help but laugh when she saw how intrigued Scott was. Hearing footsteps behind her she realized he father had arrived. \u00a0His entrance into the house darkened the previously light mood. \u00a0Everyone stood rooted to their spots as Zach slowly moved into the room and placed the water buckets in the kitchen.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cHello, Papa. I\u2019ve come home.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Zach turned his back on everyone. <\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cPapa, I\u2019ve brought someone to meet you. \u00a0This is Scott, your grandson.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Ben noticed Zach\u2019s back tense before he spoke in clipped tones. \u00a0\u201cI told you if you left not to bother comin\u2019 back and I don\u2019t know who this boy is but he\u2019s not my grandson. I\u2019m leavin\u2019 this house now. \u00a0When I get back I want both of you gone from here.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Etta and Martha gasped. \u00a0Ben\u2019s black brows knitted together and his eyes darkened at the harsh words. \u00a0He instinctively pulled Scott closer to himself as Zach brushed by Etta and left. <\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cMister Cartwright, would you please take Scott outside?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Ben quietly guided the boy outside so mother and daughter could talk. \u00a0Ben\u2019s own thoughts were in a whirlwind, trying to piece together all the tiny parts of this encounter with Etta. \u00a0He thought Etta looked pale and weak. Did that mean she still had her illness? \u00a0And what of the boy, her son. Who was the father? \u00a0After his initial shock of seeing the dark haired boy for the first time Ben chose not to follow that path. \u00a0He\u2019d just have to wait for Etta to answer that question for him. <\/span><\/p>\n

A cool breeze stirred in the trees and brought the sound of a coyote. \u00a0Scott looked up listening to the lonely howl. \u00a0Ben stepped closer to give Scott some comfort. He wondered what must be going through the child’s mind. <\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cMister Cartwright, why is my grandfather angry with me and Mama?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Ben\u2019s breath caught as he considered the hateful way Zach had acted. \u00a0He knew what Zach had said to Etta all those years ago and that Zach had never changed his mind about her. \u00a0But here was an innocent child feeling the pain those choices carried. \u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cScott, I don\u2019t think he\u2019s angry at you or your mother. \u00a0Sometimes people can seem angry at others when they are really angry at themselves.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Scott took a while before he spoke again. \u00a0\u201cMister Cartwright, I hope he stops being angry at himself. I sure would like him to love me.\u201d *<\/span><\/p>\n

Stunned by the depth of the child\u2019s words, Ben watched as Scott moved away. He was reminded of another child, so serious yet so sensitive. <\/span><\/p>\n

After a while, the door opened. \u00a0Martha looked to Ben with a question as Etta placed her arms around Scott. \u201cBen, I was wondering if you\u2019d mind taking Etta and Scott back to town so they can stay there for a few days. Just until Zach comes around in his thinking.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cNonsense. I\u2019d consider it a pleasure if they would stay at the Ponderosa. \u00a0We have plenty of room.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI knew you would offer, Ben, but Etta didn\u2019t believe me. Then it\u2019s settled. \u00a0Scott would you like to help Mister Cartwright get the buggy ready?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cOh would I!\u201d \u00a0He ran off toward the barn, behind Ben.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cMama, thank you, for everything.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cNow don\u2019t you fret, Etta. Your father will come around. \u00a0Just give him a little time.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Etta remained silent. \u00a0Time was all she had, but how much she didn\u2019t know. It didn\u2019t take long for Ben to have the buggy ready. \u00a0He drove it around to the porch and helped Etta into the seat, to sit beside Scott. As Ben guided the buggy away from the house, Buck\u2019s reins tied to the back, Zach watched from behind the barn. He sniffed to clear his nose, then walked determinedly toward the house. \u00a0He didn\u2019t understand his friend\u2019s graciousness toward Etta but if that\u2019s the way Ben Cartwright wanted to be, that was fine by Zach, as long as she was out of his house. He entered his home and closed the door, on the night and his troubles. <\/span><\/p>\n

——————<\/span><\/p>\n

* From \u201cThe Love Child\u201d – Season 12, Episode 9<\/span><\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Chapter 4<\/b><\/p>\n

The evening had grown late when Ben, Etta and Scott arrived at the Ponderosa. Warm, inviting light emanated from several windows of the ranch house, and the lanterns in the yard cast a welcoming glow to the tired trio. Etta and Scott were exhausted and Ben learned they had not had any food since early afternoon. \u00a0He escorted them into the house, leaving the buggy and Buck in the care of one of the hands. \u00a0Although Ben\u2019s friendliness toward Etta had put her at ease on the ride to the ranch, she still felt nervous to be around Adam\u2019s family. Entering through the front door Etta found comfort in the gentle fire at the hearth and the tentative though welcoming smiles from Joe and Hoss when they greeted her. \u00a0She could see their concern behind those smiles but it helped that she didn\u2019t see the hatred she had felt with her own father. \u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Ben turned to indicate a tall, lean boy standing timidly near the settee. <\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cEtta, Scott, this is Jamie Hunter. \u00a0He\u2019s staying with us for a time.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cHello, Jamie.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Jamie smiled shyly at Etta, then invited Scott to join him by the fire to watch a game of checkers between him and Joe. \u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cHoss, would you ask Hop Sing if he can prepare a light meal for our guests?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cSure Pa.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Ben led Etta to the settee, then settled into his own chair. He kept an eye on her as everyone else returned to their evening activities. He was concerned she was barely holding up. \u00a0He hoped a light meal and some rest would help to settle her in. <\/span><\/p>\n

After a quiet meal of reheated stew, Etta and Scott excused themselves to retire for the evening. After Ben had showed them to their rooms he returned to the downstairs. \u00a0Etta helped Scott settle into bed and he was asleep before she left the room. \u00a0In her own room she tried to unpack but was too exhausted. \u00a0She quickly changed to her night clothes and crawled into the soft bed. \u00a0As the concerns of the day passed away Etta drifted off into a healing sleep. <\/span><\/p>\n

As the morning sun crept across the floor and brightened her room, Etta felt a small hand rubbing her cheek which brought her around. \u00a0She found Scott smiling at her and asking if she was alright. \u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI am now. \u00a0Did you sleep well, Scott?\u201d \u00a0Etta was surprised to see Scott already dressed. <\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYes Ma. Mister Cartwright said it would be okay for me to come up and see if you were awake. \u00a0I\u2019ve already had breakfast and Jamie\u2019s going to take me fishing this morning. \u00a0Is that alright Mama?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Etta sat up in bed and notice how bright the room was. \u00a0She felt embarrassed to have missed breakfast. \u00a0\u201cOf course, Scott. \u00a0I hope you and Jamie have a good time. \u00a0Why don\u2019t you go back down stairs and I\u2019ll join you in a few minutes.\u201d She kissed her son on the forehead then watched him skip out of the room. \u00a0She was pleased that he had settled in so easily with the Cartwrights. Jamie was turning out to be good friend for Scott. <\/span><\/p>\n

Rising and dressing quickly, she went downstairs to find Ben sitting at the table with a cup of coffee and reading the newspaper. \u00a0Jamie and Scott were just leaving for their fishing adventure. \u00a0After a hug, Etta sent Scott on his way. \u00a0She joined Ben at the table. <\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019m sorry I missed breakfast. \u00a0I guess I was more tired than I realized.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cIt\u2019s quite alright, Etta. \u00a0You needed your rest. \u00a0Hop Sing can bring something out now if you\u2019re ready to eat.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

As Etta nodded, Hop Sing appeared with a light breakfast of eggs, toast, hot cakes and strawberry jam. He also poured tea for her and refreshed Ben\u2019s coffee before disappearing back into the kitchen. <\/span><\/p>\n

As Etta ate she and Ben discussed the day\u2019s plans and some of the news in the paper. \u00a0While the conversation was light, Etta was aware of an undercurrent of tension at the table. \u00a0Etta had a pretty good idea what he was thinking but she wasn\u2019t ready to discuss it. After breakfast Etta went to her room to unpack while Ben left to return her parents\u2019 buggy and run errands in town. <\/span><\/p>\n

At the Randolph\u2019s home, Ben took some time to speak to Zach. \u00a0It was a tense conversation with both men being stubborn, but Ben finally got Zach to see that he wasn\u2019t getting any younger and his selfish anger was keeping him from enjoying his daughter and grandson. \u00a0Zach still refused to see Etta or Scott though so Ben left. \u00a0After that visit, Ben stopped by town to send a telegram to Adam to let him know Etta was home. While he waited for a response Ben bought some clothes for Scott. \u00a0The boy needed some ranch type clothing and boots since all he had with him were city clothes. \u00a0After his shopping trip Ben checked to see if a response from Adam had arrived. One had, and with the cryptic answer he had expected. As he rode home, Ben hoped he had done the right thing by letting Adam know Etta was back home. \u00a0But then if he hadn\u2019t, in another few days Adam, who was returning anyway to go over some new business prospects, would have found out, and Ben felt that method would have been much worse. <\/span><\/p>\n

The next two days passed quickly for Etta and Scott. \u00a0Joe and Jamie kept the boy pretty busy with barn chores, riding lessons and fishing. \u00a0Etta\u2019s mother had come to visit while Ben and Hoss handled the ranch duties. \u00a0Late on the third morning, Etta was in the kitchen helping Hop Sing make some pies for dinner. \u00a0\u00a0Just as the pies were put in the oven, heavy footsteps were heard on the front porch, and the door opened and closed. \u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWell I guess Jamie and Scott must be back early. \u00a0I\u2019ll go see to them Hop Sing and make sure they bring their fish to the kitchen door.\u201d \u00a0Hop Sing smiled as he began to clean up the dishes.<\/span><\/p>\n

Etta cleaned her hands, and shed her apron, then walked out to the main room. \u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYou boys are back\u2026..\u201d \u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Any other words were lost as a tall, dark-haired business man turned and looked at her. \u00a0She cocked her head and scanned the face. \u00a0Despite the beard, the eyes were unmistakable. \u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cAdam\u2026?\u201d <\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cHello Etta.\u201d \u00a0His smooth voice was just as she remembered it, but it had a coolness to it this time. \u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI…well, I\u2026.\u201d \u00a0The room began to spin and Etta reached for the back of the nearest chair to steady herself. \u00a0Adam moved quickly to turn the chair so she could sit in it. <\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cHop Sing, bring some water, quickly.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cNo, I\u2019m fine really.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cMister Adam, you home early. \u00a0Missy Etta, what wrong?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam poured water into a glass and held it for Etta to sip from. \u00a0Hop Sing watched her closely, knowing about her illness, then looked at Adam. <\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI was able to leave San Francisco earlier than planned. Etta became dizzy. Perhaps a light snack would be in order Hop Sing, to hold us until lunch.\u201d \u00a0Hop Sing nodded and hurried back to the kitchen to prepare a tray with sandwiches, tea and coffee.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cEtta, let\u2019s sit by the fire where it will be more comfortable.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Etta nodded and allowed Adam to assist her over to the settee. He lowered himself into his father\u2019s chair. Once settled they remained silent until Hop Sing served the snack then retreated to his kitchen. \u00a0He knew there a long and difficult conversation was coming. <\/span><\/p>\n

After the sandwiches were gone, Etta sipped her tea, glancing nervously at Adam now and then. He sensed her anxiety and knew he needed to speak first. \u00a0He took a deep breath and finally broke the ice. <\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cPa wired me to let me know you were here. \u00a0I\u2019ve been living in San Francisco for about three years. I have my own engineering firm but I also broker business deals for the Ponderosa which brings me here fairly often throughout the year. I\u2019m here now to discuss some timber and cattle contracts with my father. \u00a0I\u2019ll be here about a week then I have to head back to San Francisco for my other business.\u201d \u00a0He paused to study Etta more closely, noting her pale coloring and the dark circles under her eyes. \u00a0He scooted forward in the red chair to get a bit closer. \u00a0\u201cAre you feeling better Etta? \u00a0Was the doctor in St. Louis able to help you?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

She remained silent, her eyes locked on her lap. <\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cEtta, please look at me.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

She shook her head. \u00a0\u201cI can\u2019t Adam. \u00a0I\u2019m too ashamed of what I did to you. \u00a0I loved you yet I couldn\u2019t trust you enough to tell you that I was…was sick. \u00a0I\u2019m so sorry. \u00a0I didn\u2019t want to leave the way I did but I felt I didn\u2019t have any choice. \u00a0I brought shame on my family and yours by not facing the truth. \u00a0Papa told me that if I left, I might as well stay gone. \u00a0Doctor Martin told me to tell you everything but I was so scared and I couldn\u2019t see how we could have a life together if I was going to be so sick.\u201d \u00a0Her voice broke and words failed her. \u00a0Adam face grew dark for a moment as her words came tumbling out. Some things he knew from her one letter to him but others, like her father\u2019s reaction, he was hearing for the first time. \u00a0He took a slow breath to settle his emotions. <\/span><\/p>\n

Adam reached for her hands to calm them from their frantic twisting. \u00a0His voice was quiet. \u201cWhat did the doctor tell you? \u00a0It\u2019s alright Etta. \u00a0I won\u2019t be angry, I just want to hear the truth. \u00a0All of it.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Tears dripped onto their joined hands as she continued. \u00a0\u201cFor a while, the doctor in St. Louis was able to help me but recently the old symptoms came back and\u2026.he said there was nothing more he could do.\u201d \u00a0She finally looked up into Adam\u2019s eyes and watched as the truth of those words sank in. \u00a0Along with the sadness and shock, she also saw something else. Could he still love her, after all that had happened? By that time Adam was kneeling in front of Etta and she collapsed into his arms. \u00a0He slowly rubbed her back as she cried inconsolably into his chest. \u00a0The front door opened and Ben, seeing what was happening, immediately ushered Jamie and Scott back outside, closing the door quietly behind him. The returning party made their way to the kitchen while Adam continued to console Etta in the living room. <\/span><\/p>\n

A short while later, Ben found Adam sitting in his blue chair, after having changed to his ranch clothes, his fingers steepled in front of him and his eyes focused on the fire. \u00a0Noticing his father\u2019s glance at the stairs Adam said that Etta was resting in her room. \u00a0Ben poured some brandy for them both then sat in his chair and waited. <\/span><\/p>\n

Adam held the glass of amber liquid for a while before taking several swallows. He let the brandy slide down his throat, needing every drop of the strong drink to calm his raging emotions. \u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cSon?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cPa, did you know that Zach told Etta not to come home? \u00a0How could he turn his back on his own daughter when she needed him the most?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI don\u2019t know son. \u00a0I knew Zach changed a lot after that day. \u00a0He wouldn\u2019t ever let me talk about her and you. I never understood why.\u201d \u00a0Ben set his glass down. \u201cI\u2019m sorry Adam. You don\u2019t know how many times I\u2019ve wished all this had turned out so differently.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cNo more than I have, Pa. \u00a0Did you know she\u2019s dying?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Ben\u2019s eyes grew wide and darkened as he stared at his son. \u00a0\u201cNo.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cShe told me this afternoon. That\u2019s why she came home, to make things right again. \u00a0What I don\u2019t understand is why she stayed away for so long. \u00a0She said she\u2019d gotten better. \u00a0Why didn\u2019t she come back then?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Ben shook his head, he had his own suspicions but wouldn\u2019t reveal those now. \u00a0\u201cI believe only Etta can answer that for you, son.\u201d \u00a0He took another sip of his brandy. \u00a0\u201cWhat do you plan to do now?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI don\u2019t know. \u00a0I need more time. \u00a0I have to be back in San Francisco by Monday to meet with the city officials about a new project. \u00a0My firm has a very good chance of winning the contract but I have to be there.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cThat\u2019s six days, son. \u00a0Let me and Joe go over the contracts you brought, then I\u2019ll meet with you to discuss any questions we have. \u00a0That should give you some extra time with Etta.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam nodded. \u00a0\u201cThanks Pa.\u201d \u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Hop Sing came out then. \u201cMister Cartwright, lunch ready. \u00a0Everybody wash up now.\u201d <\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cThank you Hop Sing. \u00a0Will you prepare a tray for Miss Etta when she wakes up?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cTray already.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019ll go get the boys and join you at the table.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam turned at his father\u2019s words. \u00a0\u201cBoys?\u201d \u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Realizing his mistake and before Ben could respond, the door flew open emitting Jamie and Scott. \u00a0The boys were laughing over a joke when they stopped to see Adam looking at them. \u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cHey Adam. \u00a0You got here fast.\u201d \u00a0Jamie\u2019s smile quickly faded when he realized Adam was staring at Scott. \u00a0Jamie quietly excused himself to go wash up. \u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Ben tried to smooth over the situation as best he could and moved to put his arm around Scott. \u00a0He looked at his son. \u00a0\u201cAdam, this is Scott, Etta\u2019s son. \u00a0Scott, this is Adam, my oldest son.\u201d \u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Ben felt Scott tense but then he pulled away and moved toward Adam, holding out his hand. \u00a0\u201c\u2018I\u2019m pleased to meet you Mister Cartwright. \u00a0You\u2019re Joe\u2019s and Hoss\u2019 brother aren\u2019t you?\u201d \u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Ben could see so many questions cross his son\u2019s face, but Adam remained cordial and took Scott\u2019s hand. \u00a0\u201cI\u2019m pleased to meet you too, Scott, and yes I am.\u201d \u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Before anything else could be said, Ben sent Scott into the kitchen to wash up. \u00a0He headed to the table and indicated Adam do the same. \u00a0Joe and Hoss entered a few minutes later and lunch began. \u00a0It didn\u2019t take long for the younger brothers to sense the unspoken tension in the air. \u00a0Ben silently acknowledged that one more conversation needed to be held, and quite soon. <\/span><\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Chapter 5<\/b><\/p>\n

After lunch, Hoss and Jamie found work in the barn while Joe took Scott out for a riding lesson. Casting a look at his father, Adam volunteered to take a lunch tray to Etta. \u00a0He slowly walked up the stairs and hesitated outside her door. \u00a0Knocking quietly, he entered to find her sitting at the window. \u00a0She didn\u2019t acknowledge him as he set the tray on a small table. Moving the table closer to her he pulled an extra chair up to join her. \u00a0He let her eat in peace while he tried to figure out how to ask the question that now troubled him. \u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Voices and laughter rose from the yard through the open window. \u00a0Adam stood to get a better look and peered down to where Joe was helping Scott ride a pony. \u00a0The scene brought a soft smile to Adam\u2019s face as he recalled teaching Joe to ride, but then a new feeling took over, one of jealousy. \u00a0He turned back to the table to find Etta watching him. \u00a0Was that fear in her eyes? \u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cEtta\u2026.\u201d Why was it so hard to ask what he\u2019d already surmised?<\/span><\/p>\n

Etta moved away from the window and the sounds of laughter below. \u00a0Once again she began wringing her hands then stopped as she turned back toward Adam. \u00a0\u201cAdam, I…Yes,\u201d she lowered her eyes, \u201cScott is our son.\u201d <\/span><\/p>\n

Adam didn\u2019t move. Trying to calm his breathing, he waited for more.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWhen I left, I didn\u2019t know I was carrying our child. \u00a0I found out about a month later when the doctor in St. Louis began running tests before my treatments. The doctor has assured me he\u2019s a perfectly healthy seven year old.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Etta could see Adam\u2019s jaw twitching. \u00a0Not sure what else to say she waited for him to speak. <\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWhy Etta? \u00a0Why didn\u2019t you write to me, tell me about Scott? \u00a0I went to St. Louis and tried to find you but the addresses I\u2019d been given failed.\u201d \u00a0He moved toward her and placed his hands on her shoulders. \u00a0\u201cI loved you, I…I still do. I\u2019ve never stopped loving you Etta. My God, Etta, he\u2019s our son!\u201d \u00a0Adam gestured toward the window. \u00a0\u201c He needs both of us, especially now that you\u2019re\u2026.\u201d He couldn\u2019t say the word, not yet. He\u2019d just gotten her back and now he was going to lose her again. <\/span><\/p>\n

Etta pulled away from Adam, tears streaming down her cheeks. \u00a0\u201cHow can you say you still love me Adam, after what I\u2019ve done to you? I ran away before our marriage, I didn\u2019t trust you to care for me. \u00a0I hurt you. I lied about our son by not telling you. \u00a0I don\u2019t deserve your love, and I don\u2019t deserve to stay here any longer.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam reached for Etta and turned her around. \u00a0\u201cLook at me and say those things. \u00a0Let me see all that in your eyes, Etta, and then I\u2019ll believe you.\u201d <\/span><\/p>\n

She looked at him but couldn\u2019t repeat any of it. \u00a0\u201cI\u2019m sorry, Adam.\u201d \u00a0Her voice a whisper. \u201cI never stopped loving you either. When Scott was born, and as he grew, he became my life, my only link to you. I was wrong to leave and wrong to not trust you to help me through the illness. \u00a0Can you forgive me?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam took her in his arms and rested his head on hers. \u00a0For a moment he stood there enjoying the feel of her in his arms again, but he also knew he could forgive her. \u201cYes, Etta. \u00a0I can forgive you.\u201d \u00a0He stepped back and gently took her face in his hands. \u201cI love you and, if you agree, I still want to marry you. \u00a0I want to give you what you deserve, all my love, and I want to give our son a proper family and his rightful name. Will you say \u2018yes\u2019?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Her heart was pounding and she felt she might faint but she nodded. \u201cYes, Adam, I\u2019ll marry you.\u201d \u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam drew her closer and kissed her gently, then more passionately. \u00a0It was Etta that pulled away first, leaving Adam with a questioning look. \u00a0\u201cWhat\u2019s wrong?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cAdam, it\u2019s Scott, he doesn\u2019t know about you. I thought I might never see you again. I didn\u2019t want to give him any false hopes. \u00a0I have to tell him now but I don\u2019t know what to say.\u201d <\/span><\/p>\n

Adam took her trembling hands in his. \u00a0\u201cWould it help if I were with you when you tell him?\u201d \u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cNo, I think I need to tell him myself. \u00a0It might be easier on him that way.\u201d \u00a0She looked up to see disappointment in his eyes. \u00a0\u201cPlease understand, I\u2019m all he\u2019s ever known. \u00a0I think it\u2019s best this way.\u201d \u00a0A thought occurred to her. \u201cIs there a place close by where he and I could have a small picnic? That might make it easier to tell him. \u00a0He loves the outdoors.\u201d \u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYes, there\u2019s a path behind the house that leads to a view of the lake. \u00a0It\u2019s a short walk but it would give you the privacy you need.\u201d <\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cThat sounds perfect. \u00a0I think he and I should go this afternoon as soon as he finishes his riding lesson.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam agreed. \u00a0After one last kiss he took the tray downstairs while Etta cleaned her face and freshened up. In the kitchen, Adam asked Hop Sing to prepare a small basket of snacks for Etta and Scott explaining they were going to take a walk to look at the lake. Hop Sing readily agreed, sensing something was about to change in the family dynamics. A half hour later they were on their way and Adam sat with his father, telling him all that had transpired upstairs. He asked Ben to keep the news private until he and Etta decided on a time to tell the rest of the family.<\/span><\/p>\n

After their walk to the overlook, Etta and Scott played a short game of tag then collapsed on the blanket to rest. \u00a0At the edge of the woods, mother and son sat on a knoll, mesmerized by the beauty of the deep blue lake, enjoying the warmth of the sun and the sweet cakes Hop Sing had packed. Etta turned to look at her son. \u00a0She smoothed his dark hair as she studied his young face. She still couldn\u2019t get over how easy it was to see Adam in her son\u2019s face.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cScott, I have something I\u2019d like to talk to you about.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Noticing how his mother was struggling with her words, Scott voiced his question. \u00a0\u201cMama, when will Grandfather stop being angry at himself so he can love us?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Surprised by her son\u2019s question, she had to ask, \u201cWho told you that, Scott?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cThe night we got here, I asked Mister Cartwright why Grandfather was so angry with us and he said that sometimes people aren\u2019t really angry at others but angry at themselves.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Etta looked away. \u00a0Ben Cartwright always had a way with words. She had valued his wisdom all those years ago. <\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cMister Cartwright\u2019s a wise man. \u00a0I don\u2019t really know when your grandfather will be over his anger, but you know what?\u201d \u00a0She looked at her son once more. \u00a0\u201cI think perhaps it\u2019s time I talk to him and see what I can do to help him. \u00a0What do you say to that?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Scott smiled. \u00a0\u201cI hope it works. \u00a0Grandfather needs us and we need him too, don\u2019t we Ma?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Etta had to hug her son in answer for she was too emotional for words. Taking a deep breath, she decided to press on with her planned conversation. <\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cScott, what would you say if I told you that you have two grandfathers?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Scott stopped playing with a stone he\u2019d found and stared at his mother. \u00a0\u201cWhat do you mean?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWell, my father is your grandfather, right?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Scott nodded.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cSo, your father has a father too, and he\u2019d be your grandfather too.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Scott screwed up his face trying to figure that out. \u00a0Suddenly, his eyes grew big. \u00a0\u201cMister Cartwright? \u00a0Is he my other grandfather?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Etta smiled. \u201cYes, Scott, he is.\u201d \u00a0\u00a0Etta paused to see if he would ask the next question.<\/span><\/p>\n

Scott didn\u2019t hesitate. \u201cMa, is Mister Adam my father?\u201d \u00a0His mixed expression of curiosity and worry brought tears to Etta\u2019s eyes. \u00a0She pulled him close and kissed the top of his head.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYes, Scott. \u00a0Adam is your father.\u201d \u00a0She then slowly told him all about Adam and how she had fallen in love with him. \u00a0She told Scott about how Adam grew up on the trail west, and had helped his father build the Ponderosa. \u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Looking her son in the eyes, she wanted to make sure he understood what came next. \u00a0\u201cScott, before you were born, I left this place and left Adam before we were married. It was because of my illness. I never stopped loving him and he still loves me. \u00a0And he loves you too. \u00a0He wants the three of us to be a family. Do you understand what that means?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Scott pulled away from his mother and scooted toward a tree. \u00a0He needed to think about all he\u2019d just heard. \u00a0Etta waited with her heart in her throat, fearful she\u2019d said too much too soon. <\/span><\/p>\n

For several minutes, nothing happened. Scott just stared off at the lake, fingering the small rock he held. Etta started to move toward him when she saw Adam standing a few feet away in the woods. \u00a0He motioned for her to stay put as he gently made his way to them. He sat down by Scott and looked at the lake, drawing up his knees and resting his arms on them. <\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cThe lake\u2019s kind of peaceful right now. \u00a0But during storms a lot of waves move across the water.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

No response but Adam noticed Scott stopped fingering the rock he\u2019d been holding. \u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cMy guess is that you\u2019re feeling like a storm\u2019s all around you right now, huh?\u201d <\/span><\/p>\n

Scott barely moved his head.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cDo you know what to do if you get caught in a storm, Scott?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

The response came as a whisper. \u00a0\u201cYou get inside the house. It\u2019s safe inside.\u201d <\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cThat\u2019s right, Scott. You want to be with your family, right?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Scott nodded, then looked up at Adam with moist eyes. \u00a0\u201cMama says you\u2019re my father and that we\u2019re a family.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cThat\u2019s right Scott. \u00a0Do you want us to be family?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Scott eyed the lake again then looked at his mother. She gave her son a soft smile. \u00a0Scott turned back to Adam. \u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYes sir. I\u2019d like that.\u201d Etta quietly gasped and brought her hands to her mouth, joyful tears filling her eyes. \u00a0Adam felt a small hand come to rest on his knee. He smiled at Etta and slipped his arm around Scott. \u00a0Leaning over the boy he whispered, \u201cI\u2019d like that too, son.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

After watching the sunset over the lake, the new family headed home. \u00a0Scott held his mother\u2019s hand as Adam led the way back to the house. \u00a0As they came around the back of the house to enter through the kitchen, Adam stopped and swung Scott up onto his back. \u00a0Together the pair entered the kitchen as Adam pretended to be a horse. Etta followed, laughing at the antics of her two \u2018men\u2019. All three took time to greet Hop Sing, then washed for dinner. \u00a0At the dinner table Adam made his announcement that he and Etta were going to be married as soon as possible, thus making them a new family of three. \u00a0Joe, Jamie and Hoss immediately whooped and hollered, while Ben called for Hop Sing to bring their best champagne. \u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Etta asked that they keep the news quiet until she could speak to her parents, which she planned to do the next day. \u00a0Adam also announced that he would have his friend, and the vice president of his company, meet with the San Francisco officials the following week. \u00a0That would make it possible for Adam to spend extra time at home, where he felt he was needed the most at the moment. \u00a0For the first time since she had left all those years ago, Etta finally felt her life was what it was meant to be. <\/span><\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Chapter 6<\/b><\/p>\n

The next day began early with a full family breakfast before everyone went their separate ways. \u00a0Hoss headed out with the hands to check the herd and fences. \u00a0Jamie and Scott went fishing while Ben and Joe worked on the new contracts Adam had brought home. \u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam took Etta to see her parents. She wanted to talk with them alone so he reluctantly agreed to head to town for his errands. He needed to send a telegram to San Francisco and meet with a few business people. <\/span><\/p>\n

Martha was on the front porch mending clothes and was thrilled to see Adam and Etta together. \u00a0When Etta said she needed to talk to her father, Martha figured out why pretty quickly. \u00a0She said Zach was down by the creek trying to clear some brush. \u00a0Etta bid Adam goodbye and headed toward the creek. Martha prayed silently for all to work out. \u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Etta found her father sitting on a stump, resting from his work. \u00a0Hearing footsteps on the path, he sat a bit straighter waiting to see who was coming. \u00a0When he saw that it was Etta, he turned away slightly. \u00a0Etta didn\u2019t miss the gesture, but it only made her more determined get through to her father. <\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cHello, Papa.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Zach grunted a greeting. \u00a0\u201cWhat\u2019re ya doin\u2019 here, girl. Ain\u2019t no place for ya to be.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI came to see you Papa. \u00a0I have some news and wanted to share it with you.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYou jest get on back to where you\u2019re stayin\u2019. \u00a0Ain\u2019t no news I need to hear from you.\u201d \u00a0Zach moved off his stump and returned to his work. \u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Etta was shaken but not surprised at her father\u2019s reaction. \u00a0Recalling her discussion the night before with Adam about her father, and Adam\u2019s encouragement, she felt his presence with her now as she pressed on. \u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cPapa, you don\u2019t have to say anything, just listen. Adam\u2019s home and, well, he and I have had a chance to talk about all that\u2019s happened. \u00a0It was hard Papa, but we talked and worked things out. \u00a0He\u2019s forgiven me for what I did eight years ago. \u00a0Papa, he\u2019s told me that he still loves me and I love him. \u00a0We want to get married and I want you and Mama to be there when we say our vows. \u00a0Papa, if Adam can forgive me, can you do that too? \u00a0Please? \u00a0I\u2019m sorry Papa for leaving and not trusting you to care for me. \u00a0I was scared and didn\u2019t know what to do.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Zach kept his back to her but spoke loud and clear, \u201cIt was wrong of you to leave without tellin\u2019 us the truth. \u00a0It weren\u2019t just the sickness, it was the baby too. \u00a0You sinned, child, and that ain\u2019t forgivable, not in my book.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Etta finally lost her composure when her father admitted the source of his anger. \u00a0She sat on the stump, hoping to regain her courage to continue. \u00a0She felt like Adam was right behind her giving her that courage. \u00a0\u201cPapa, you\u2019re right. \u00a0I did sin, but not against Adam as you might think. \u00a0Papa, Scott is your grandchild but he\u2019s also Adam\u2019s son.\u201d \u00a0Zach spun around at that news. \u201cYes, it\u2019s the truth and Adam knows, he knows everything. \u00a0Papa he still wants to marry me and be Scott\u2019s father. Please forgive me for what I did all those years ago. \u00a0I\u2019m sorry I hurt you. \u00a0Papa I love you and Mama, and I need you both so much right now.\u201d \u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Zach dropped the branches he\u2019d been holding and stared at his daughter. \u00a0Something hurt him deeply inside to see his Etta sobbing in front of him. \u00a0Ben\u2019s words about being too old to let his anger keep him from enjoying his family stung him as well. \u00a0He took a tentative, wobbly step toward his daughter, then another and finally fell to his knees at her side. \u00a0He placed a callused and aging hand on top of her trembling hands. \u00a0Etta turned her face to his and saw tears streaming down his face. \u00a0Father and daughter fell together. <\/span><\/p>\n

Though the tears Zach mumbled, \u201cYou really gettin\u2019 married, daughter?\u201d \u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Etta pushed away and smiled. \u201cYes, Papa.\u201d \u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cThen I reckon we best be gettin\u2019 on back to th\u2019 house and tellin\u2019 your Ma.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Zach pushed himself to his feet as Etta stood. \u00a0Together both walked back to their home. \u00a0By the time they arrived they were talking nonstop about Adam and Scott and the future. \u00a0Martha\u2019s heart sang when she heard her husband and daughter coming. \u00a0The smiles on their faces confirmed her prayers had all been answered. <\/span><\/p>\n

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

Two days later, Adam Cartwright and Etta Randolph were married in a quiet family ceremony held at the Ponderosa. \u00a0Young Scott stood by his father and proudly handed his mother\u2019s ring to the minister at the appropriate time. The rest of the celebration continued with a family dinner and a bit of dancing for the couple. <\/span><\/p>\n

Over the next several days, Adam spent time with Scott on fishing trips and teaching him to ride. \u00a0Scott had learned to ride so quickly that he and Adam had begun taking short rides away from the house. \u00a0Father and son were quickly becoming inseparable, and Etta felt the years they were separated melt away as if they\u2019d never happened. <\/span><\/p>\n

The Ponderosa contracts were returned to San Francisco with their attached bids, and were ultimately accepted. \u00a0Adam had also heard that the city officials had chosen his company, and two others, to take part in the continuing construction of the eastern waterfront and roadway system of the Port of San Francisco. Adam returned to San Francisco with his family to oversee the start of his company\u2019s part in the waterway system and to show Etta and Scott around the city. <\/span><\/p>\n

After two weeks in the city, the family returned to the Ponderosa. On a picnic the next day, Etta became very sick. She was rushed to the house and the doctor was sent for. \u00a0When Paul Martin left the bedroom, Adam was holding Scott in his lap and they were talking quietly to Etta. \u00a0Downstairs Paul relayed the sad news that Etta only had a few hours remaining. \u00a0He knew he needed to stay so he quietly removed himself to the kitchen in order to give the family their privacy. <\/span><\/p>\n

Upstairs, Adam embraced Scott as the child wept for his mother. \u00a0Etta smiled weakly at the loving scene before her. Her voice was weak but her words were strong, \u201cI am…so happy\u2026.and\u2026 blessed to …have had …you both \u2026.in my life. I love you\u2026.both so much.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

She attempted to reach for her son, who climbed out of Adam\u2019s lap to lay beside his mother. Adam took Etta\u2019s hand in his and gave her a gentle kiss. Etta closed her eyes and smiled. \u00a0She took one last deep breath and then was gone. \u00a0Adam and Scott remained where they were for a time before Adam leaned over to kiss his wife one last time, then he picked Scott up and together they left the room closing the door quietly behind them. <\/span><\/p>\n

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

Months later, Adam and Scott had settled into a routine on the ranch. \u00a0Adam handled most of his San Francisco business from Nevada knowing he\u2019d be making occasional trips to California. He had also begun to pick up construction projects from Virginia City and Carson City. \u00a0Scott attended school in Virginia City with Jamie, and had become an accomplished horse rider with Joe claiming he took after his uncle quite well in that area. \u00a0Scott also spent many an afternoon with Etta\u2019s parents, enjoying games, fishing and swinging by the creek. \u00a0Still settling into fatherhood, Adam chose to remain at the Ponderosa but knew in time he would build his own home with Scott working alongside him. \u00a0On days when he missed Etta deeply, he had only to look upon his son and see her warm smile mixed with his own golden eyes. Adam knew in those moments she was watching over both of them. <\/span><\/p>\n

~End~<\/span><\/p>\n

A\/N – This is a WHI for The Love Child (Season 12, Episode 9) and my response to the Bonanza Brand, Better Late than Never Challenge<\/strong> for the 2017 Missing Man challenge (Add Adam to any episode from Seasons 7-14).<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Tags:\u00a0 Adam Cartwright,\u00a0Family,<\/p>\n

<\/div>\n

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

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

Summary – A young woman’s sudden departure from Virginia City leaves heartache and anger behind. After an eight-year absence, she returns home hoping to reconcile with the ones she left behind.<\/p>\n

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