{"id":3134,"date":"2011-04-25T23:26:38","date_gmt":"2011-04-26T03:26:38","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/?p=3134"},"modified":"2025-02-27T12:23:27","modified_gmt":"2025-02-27T17:23:27","slug":"meeting-clay","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/?p=3134","title":{"rendered":"Meeting Clay (by Fozrulz)"},"content":{"rendered":"

Summary: \u00a0<\/span>Just imagine if Ellie had met Clay…. \u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Rated:<\/span>\u00a0K+ (7,210 words)
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Could you imagine how Ellie would have acted when she meets Clay? I am taking the liberty of assuming Clay stays around for awhile.<\/em><\/div>\n
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\u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 Meeting Clay<\/strong><\/p>\n

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Ellie was having one of those days. One of those days when you\u2019re out of sorts, but you don\u2019t really know why. She had just woken up on the wrong side of the bed. Both Papa and Adam had threatened to give her a few swats if her attitude didn\u2019t improve. All she really wanted to do was take a rifle out to the pasture and practice shooting. Joe had taught her to shoot when she was 10 and she practiced every chance she got. Joe said she was a crack shot. Papa had even gotten her a rifle on her twelfth birthday two weeks ago. She loved shooting. It was something she could share with her brothers and something she was really good at. But, she could not handle the rifle without her Papa or one of her brothers.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cDang it!\u201d she swore as she walked out into the barn to saddle Windy. Unfortunately that \u201cdang it\u201d came out right as she ran into Papa coming out of the barn. He grabbed her arm, whirled her around and gave a stinging swat to her behind.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cEleanor Grace, watch that mouth.\u201d Pa admonished her. He shook a finger at her, \u201cThe next time I hear that kind of talk, I\u2019m going to wash your mouth out with soap. Understand?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYes sir, sorry.\u201d Ellie sighed. She had just been destined to get a swat sometime today.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWhere are you going?\u201d he asked.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019m going to visit Mama.\u201d she responded.<\/span><\/p>\n

Papa eyed her. She sure was in a foul mood. Maybe a visit to Marie\u2019s grave would calm her down. He sure wasn\u2019t in the mood to deal with a sassy little girl today. \u201cOk, just be back before supper.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cOk,\u201d she sighed.<\/span><\/p>\n

Pa\u2019s eyebrows went up and he started to correct her.<\/span><\/p>\n

She looked up and saw the displeased look on his face. \u201cUm, I meant yes sir, yes sir I\u2019ll be back before supper.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Pa\u2019s face relaxed as he walked toward the house.<\/span><\/p>\n

She walked into the barn to saddle Windy. As luck would have it, her rifle was still in the case in the barn. She had forgotten to put it away. She smiled to herself. She could ride up and visit Mama and go shooting. Maybe this day wasn\u2019t so bad after all.<\/span><\/p>\n

She rode for a long while thinking about a good place to go practice shooting where she wouldn\u2019t be caught. No one should be up near Mama\u2019s grave near the lake. She figured that was as good a place as any. She broke into a full gallop. She loved to feel the wind in her long hair and the freedom of just riding. She certainly was her mother\u2019s daughter even though she had never known her mother. She slowed down before she arrived at her Mama\u2019s grave. Much to her surprise, she found a strange man putting flowers on the grave. Ellie frowned. What was that strange man doing near her mama\u2019s grave?<\/span><\/p>\n

She held back a bit, eyeing the man. He seemed like he was older than Joe, but not as old as Adam, still pretty old in her book. He sure was tall, lots taller than Joe, shorter than Hoss, maybe as tall as Adam. Then again, Ellie was very small for her age and everyone seemed tall to her. She watched him intently, he was kneeling at her mama\u2019s grave. She felt violated. She didn\u2019t like it one bit, what was that man doing? She began to smolder, she was getting angrier as she watched the man. She slid her rifle out of the holder and took aim above his head. She squeezed off a shot over the man\u2019s head.<\/span><\/p>\n

Clay Stafford hit the dirt and grabbed for his gun looking to see where the shot had come from. He looked up to see a little bitty girl, maybe 8 or 9 holding a rifle on him. He had to keep himself from laughing. If that little girl only knew how silly she looked. Only she did have a rifle aimed at him and he didn\u2019t want to take any chances. He held his hands up.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cUm, mind if I put my hands down and get up.\u201d he asked.<\/span><\/p>\n

Ellie eyed him. \u201cWhat are you doing here? This is private property.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019m looking for work.\u201d he said<\/span><\/p>\n

Ellie just stood there staring at him with the rifle still pointed at him.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cLil lady, would you mind not pointing that rifle at me?\u201d he asked.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI don\u2019t know,\u201d she said.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cMind if I get up?\u201d he asked.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cOk,\u201d she said still pointing the rifle at him.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYou\u2019re still pointing the rifle at me.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI know.\u201d she said. \u201cWhat are you doing at my mama\u2019s grave?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Clay looked surprised. So this was his little sister. Well half sister. He had no idea that he had any younger brothers or sisters.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cSo, lil miss, what\u2019s your name?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cEllie Cartwright and this is the Ponderosa and you shouldn\u2019t be here.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWell, where would I go to ask for work?\u201d he asked.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYou\u2019d need to ask my brother Adam or my Papa.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Slowly but surely, Clay had been making his way toward her, but Ellie hadn\u2019t noticed. In a swift movement, he grabbed the end of the rifle and pulled Ellie to him. He through the rifle on the ground and grabbed her by the arms.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cDamn!\u201d she swore.<\/span><\/p>\n

Clay almost dropped his grip in surprise, not only was this little girl carrying a rifle she was swearing. \u201cI suspect your Papa or your brother be\u2019d washing that mouth of yours out with soap if they heard your cursing.\u201d he said giving her a little shake.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cOh please,\u201d she said, \u201cthat isn\u2019t real cursing.\u201d \u201cReal cursing is \u2026..\u201d Ellie let out a string of curse words that would make a sailor blush.<\/span><\/p>\n

Clay turned red just listening. He looked up to see a young man, just a few years older than himself standing behind Ellie. The man clad in black just stood there shaking his head. He put his fingers to his lips. Clay gave him a slight nod.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cGood night, girl, where did you learn that?\u201d Clay asked.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cOh, some of the hands.\u201d she said smugly.<\/span><\/p>\n

Clay shook his head. \u201cBoy, if my grandfather had heard me say any one of those words, he would have tanned the hide off of me.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYeah, well if my Papa or my brother Adam heard me, they probably would too, but luckily neither one of them is here.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam almost broke out laughing. If Ellie only knew.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cSo, Miss Ellie Cartwright, what does your brother look like? So, I know when I find him to ask about work?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cOh you\u2019ll be able to find him, just ask around. He\u2019s about your height, has black hair, a little bigger than you, wears\u2026\u2026\u2026\u2026\u2026\u2026\u2026\u2026\u2026\u2026\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cA black hat, black pants and a black shirt?\u201d Clay finished up for her.<\/span><\/p>\n

Ellie looked at him curiously. \u201cHeh, how\u2019d you know? Uh, oh, he\u2019s standing right behind me, isn\u2019t he?\u201d she gulped.<\/span><\/p>\n

Clay slowly released her and she turned around to face Adam. \u201cUm, Adam, how long have you been standing there?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cOh missy, long enough to know that you just earned a belt to you bare behind when I get you home.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Ellie gulped. \u201cUm, I\u2019m sorry Adam. I promise I won\u2019t use those words anymore.\u201d she pleaded.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cNo little girl, I bet you won\u2019t.\u201d he said smirking.<\/span><\/p>\n

He looked at her with a look that could bore holes in someone. \u201cEleanor Grace, get on Windy and ride back to the house, go to your room and wait for me.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cBut, Adam\u2026\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cEleanor, 1, 2..\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Ellie raced for her horse. She didn\u2019t want Adam to get to three. If he did, he\u2019d probably tan her right then and there.<\/span><\/p>\n

As she fled, Adam and Clay burst out laughing. Adam held out his hand to Clay, \u201cAdam Cartwright.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cClay Stafford.\u201d Clay extended his hand to Adam\u2019s. \u201cBy the way Cartwright, does your little sister frequently carry a rifle with her?\u201d he asked holding up Ellie\u2019s rifle.<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam whistled. \u201cWhew, she was in trouble with the cursing, just wait until Pa hears she had her rifle on top of it all.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYou mean you let her shoot a rifle?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cOh sure, she is a very good shot. But, she\u2019s only allowed to have her rifle under the supervision of myself, my father or one of my other brothers.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cOh,\u201d he said, \u201cyou have more brothers?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYes, Hoss and Lil Joe. But, what can I do for you, Stafford?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cLooking for work.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWhat can you do?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cJust about any job on a ranch.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWell Stafford, just follow me to the main house and I\u2019ll set you up. I need to get home and take care of a certain little girl.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Stafford just smiled and followed Adam back to the house. Adam introduced him to Pa and Hoss as a new hand. \u201cHoss, can you take Clay out to the bunk house and get him set up? I have a certain little girl to attend to.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Pa gave Adam a thoughtful glance, \u201cAdam, what did Ellie do?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam recounted the story repeating most if not all the curse words Ellie said and added the fact, oh she took a shot at our new hand with her rifle. Pa\u2019s face turned red as Adam spoke. Adam thought for sure that steam was coming out of his ears. \u201cI think son, that I will handle this one.\u201d Pa sputtered.<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam just smiled at his father. \u201cI thought you would think so Pa. I think she really crossed the line this time.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cOh son, I think she crossed more than one line today.\u201d Pa started up the stairs and stopped in front of Ellie\u2019s door. He counted to ten before he entered. He opened the door to her room and found her twirling her long hair around her finger and swinging her leg off the bed. She was obviously distraught.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cEleanor?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYes sir?\u201d she barely whispered.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cDo you want to tell me about this afternoon?\u201d Pa queried.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWhat about it Papa?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cThe part that got you sent to your room by your brother.\u201d Pa said exasperated.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cOh, you know Adam Papa, he just overreacted.\u201d Ellie said twirling her hair.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cOh, is that so?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

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

\u201cStart talking Eleanor, my patience is wearing thin.\u201d Pa said his eyes darkening.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWell I rode up to mama\u2019s grave and this man, that man Adam just hired, was putting flowers on mama\u2019s grave. So I shot over his head, Papa. I didn\u2019t intend to shoot him. Just scare him, Papa, honest!\u201d she looked over at her father to see his reaction. His face remained impassive, she wasn\u2019t sure how mad he was.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cGo on.\u201d he said.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWell he hit the ground and was on the ground when I asked him why he was at mama\u2019s grave. Heh, come to think of it, he never did answer.\u201d Ellie said thoughtfully.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cEleanor!\u201d Pa intoned.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYes sir\u201d she said startled, still wondering why that man hadn\u2019t answered her question. \u201cWell he asked if he could get up and put his hands down. I told him I wasn\u2019t sure and then he grabbed the rifle and pulled me to him. I sort of said \u201cDamn\u201d and he told me you\u2019d probably wash my mouth out for swearing\u2026\u2026\u201d she paused, she really didn\u2019t want to tell him the rest.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cEleanor, you better finish this story and finish it quick.\u201d Pa threatened.<\/span><\/p>\n

Ellie looked at him searching his face to see how angry he was. She checked his hands, he didn\u2019t have his hand on his belt buckle yet, so he hadn\u2019t starting taking his belt off. She took a deep breath, \u201cWell, I told him that wasn\u2019t really cursing. I told him real cursing was, well um, I sort of repeated some words that I\u2019ve heard.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Pa raised his hand up, \u201cDon\u2019t repeat them, your brother already gave me an earful.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cPapa, it\u2019s the first time I\u2019ve ever repeated those words, honest!\u201d Ellie pleaded as she watched Pa\u2019s hand move toward his belt buckle.<\/span><\/p>\n

Ellie drew in a deep breath, she knew he was really mad. He hardly ever spanked her with anything but his hand. But, she heard that belt slide through the loops in a woosh! She wished she had thought to put on a couple extra pairs of drawers while she was waiting in her room, except Adam had threatened that it was going to be a bare bottomed spanking. She prayed Papa hadn\u2019t decided the same thing. Unfortunately for her, Papa had decided that very same thing.<\/span><\/p>\n

When he was done, he pulled Ellie close to him and gave her a hug. \u201cAll right Eleanor, you are restricted to your room for a week and so help me, if I catch you with that rifle, you won\u2019t like the consequences. You will stay in your room until supper. I expect you to be at supper and eat. Understand?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Ellie nodded through the tears. Boy her backside hurt like the devil, she can\u2019t remember her backside ever hurting that bad. He must be really mad because he didn\u2019t even discuss it with her, he just went straight to the spanking.<\/span><\/p>\n

Pa left Ellie upstairs and returned to the great room to find Adam reading a book. \u201cDon\u2019t you have some work to do, son?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWell actually Pa, I finished what I had planned for today a bit early and I was going to read for awhile before I head back out.\u201d Adam said over the top of his book. \u201cI\u2019m heading down to the corral to see how we are doing on breaking those horses for the new army contract.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cFine son, fine. I\u2019ll see you at supper. I\u2019ve got some business in town.\u201d Pa said grabbing his hat and his gun belt as he headed for the barn.<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam finished his reading and headed for the barn to saddle up Sport so he could head down to the corral. He wasn\u2019t sure he should leave Ellie in the house alone. He decided she\u2019d probably had just about enough trouble for one day and that her bottom was going to be sore enough to deter her from any further mischief for today.<\/span><\/p>\n

He caught Joe coming in on his way out. \u201cJoe, I thought you were down at the breaking corral.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI was Adam, I decided I needed my gloves and I left them up here. I\u2019ll be down there shortly.\u201d he said as he raced up the stairs. Joe walked by Ellie\u2019s room and heard her crying. He tapped on her door, \u201cHeh, Sissy what\u2019s wrong?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Ellie looked up to see Joe standing in her doorway. She burst into a new round of tears. Joe went over to her quickly and recognized the prone position on her stomach. She must have gotten some tanning if she was still crying about it. \u201cGot yourself tanned, huh?\u201d he asked.<\/span><\/p>\n

She nodded miserably.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cDon\u2019t worry Sissy, Pa won\u2019t be mad anymore. Not once he\u2019s punished you.\u201d Joe said rubbing her back.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI know,\u201d she said, \u201cBut, Joe, it really hurts and Papa didn\u2019t even talk about what happened, he just went straight to the spanking.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cBelt?\u201d asked Joe.<\/span><\/p>\n

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

\u201cBare behind?\u201d asked Joe.<\/span><\/p>\n

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

\u201cWhoa,\u201d said Joe shaking his head, \u201cWhat happened?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Ellie filled him in on the events. \u201cYou know Joe, that man never told me why he was putting flowers on mama\u2019s grave.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYeah, that\u2019s kinda of curious, ain\u2019t it?\u201d Joe asked. \u201cWell I better get out of here before Adam catches me. I\u2019m suppose to be down at the corral.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cThanks Joe.\u201d Ellie sniffed.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cSure, Sissy, I\u2019ll see you at supper.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYeah, I guess.\u201d she said.<\/span><\/p>\n

Joe took off on Cochise for the corral. He couldn\u2019t get out of his mind what Ellie had said about the new hand. Why would that man be putting flowers on mama\u2019s grave? Well, he would just have to investigate. But, he wanted to make sure he had all his chores done and any jobs Adam had assigned, he didn\u2019t want to get on Adam or Pa\u2019s bad side today. He had no interest in Pa\u2019s or Adam\u2019s wrath being on him today. Joe made his way down to the corral to find the new hand, Clay Stafford breaking horses. Joe admired the man, he sure was good. Adam had already come and gone. Joe introduced himself to Clay. Joe and Clay alternated getting on the horses and working them.<\/span><\/p>\n

Clay was standing at the fence watching Joe work the horses. He thought, so this is my little brother. He looks just like Ellie. Clay was proud of Joe, he really could sit a horse. He couldn\u2019t believe that Joe was being allowed to break horses at just 17. But the longer he watched, the more he understood. Joe really had a gift with horses.<\/span><\/p>\n

Joe got thrown and landed on his back. Clay was over the fence and to Joe within seconds. \u201cYou ok, Joe?\u201d he asked.<\/span><\/p>\n

Joe grinned sheepishly, \u201cTake more than that ole nag to hurt me.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Clay helped Joe up and headed toward the fence. \u201cI think we\u2019re about done for the day, don\u2019t you?\u201d he asked Joe.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYeah, my Pa\u2019d be expecting me home for supper. You can get your supper in the bunk house. Come on.\u201d Joe motioned him to mount up and follow. As they rode silently back to the house, Joe got up enough gumption to ask Clay about why he was at his mother\u2019s grave.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cSay Stafford?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Clay glanced at his younger brother with his eyebrows raised, \u201cIsn\u2019t that a might impolite, boy?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Joe bristled. \u201cWell, what am I suppose to call you?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWell, I\u2019m assuming you\u2019re not 21 yet?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201c17,\u201d Joe scowled.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201c17, huh. Well I was always taught, it was \u201cYes sir\u201d and \u201cNo Sir\u201d and Mr. Whatever until I was an adult.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Joe scowled again, \u201cJeez you sound like my Pa and my brother Adam.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Clay just stared at him.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cOk, M..i..s..t..e..r Stafford,\u201d Joe said emphasizing the mister. \u201cWhy were you putting flowers on my mother\u2019s grave?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Clay took a deep breath, \u201cWell Joe because she was my mother too.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYou\u2019re lying!\u201d Joe yelled.<\/span><\/p>\n

Clay stopped his horse and took a picture out of his pocket. \u201cJoe, this is my mother.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Joe took the picture and stared into the face of his mother. Joe turned pale. \u201cI think you should talk to my Pa.\u201d he said as he spurred Cochise toward home.<\/span><\/p>\n

Clay shook his head, well that didn\u2019t go very well did it? He took off after Joe.<\/span><\/p>\n

Joe came riding into the yard hard. He knew Pa\u2019d probably dress him down for riding that hard into the yard. It was one of Pa\u2019s rules. He hoped he didn\u2019t get a tanning because of it. He knew Pa wasn\u2019t in the best of moods.<\/span><\/p>\n

Pa came running out of the house. \u201cJoseph, how many time have I told you to slow down before you get into the yard.\u201d he shouted.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cBut Pa\u2026.\u201d Joe started.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cBut nothing, young man. I suggest you take care of your horse and get yourself inside.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cBut Pa\u2026\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cJoseph!\u201d Pa warned.<\/span><\/p>\n

About that time Clay showed up in the yard. \u201cMr. Cartwright, I believe I upset Joe, he had a reason for riding in the way he did.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Joe shot Clay a grateful glance.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cOh really,\u201d said Pa with his eyebrows raised and his eyes dark. \u201cAnd just what reason would that be?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Clay took a deep breath, \u201cI told Joe that Marie was my mother.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Pa went pale. \u201cYoung man, I think you need to come in and talk to me.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYes sir, I think I do.\u201d Clay said as he followed Pa into the house.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cJoseph, wait here and tell Adam and Hoss to wait until I call for you.\u201d Pa said as he ushered Clay into the house.<\/span><\/p>\n

Joe just stared at his father\u2019s back as he entered the house.<\/span><\/p>\n

Clay and Pa stayed in the house for quite a while talking. Unbeknownst to Pa, Ellie had opened her door and could hear the conversation quite clearly. She couldn\u2019t believe what she heard. First of all, her Mama had been married before she married Papa and she had a baby. Clay was 8 years older than Joe. Clay\u2019s grandparents had stolen him and claimed he was dead. Her poor Mama never even got to meet Clay. She was even more surprised to hear the Papa had known about Mama being married and having this baby. Only Papa thought the baby had been born dead. Her head was reeling. She closed her door and lay down on her bed, she didn\u2019t know what to think.<\/span><\/p>\n

Pa finally opened the door and motioned the boys in. He turned to Joe, \u201cGo get your sister, Joseph.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Joe sprinted up the stairs. He returned with Ellie in tow. Joe had already filled Adam and Hoss in on what he knew. Pa sat them down and explained all he knew. Ellie didn\u2019t think she liked this one bit. She moved toward Adam and wrangled her way into his lap. She needed to feel secure. Things were changing. Adam noticed her distressed look and put his arm around her, settling her in his lap.<\/span><\/p>\n

Everyone was in a state of shock. He turned to Clay and said, \u201cClay had I known about you, you would have certainly grown up on the Ponderosa with your brothers and sister. I regret I didn\u2019t have the pleasure of being your father. I want to welcome you into our home, now your home. You can have the spare room at the end of the hall, please get your things from the bunkhouse.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cMr. Cartwright, Sir, I don\u2019t know if I\u2019m staying. I just wanted to meet my family.\u201d Clay said shaking his head.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWell, you will move into the room upstairs until you decide.\u201d Pa said.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cBut, Sir\u2026\u201d Clay started.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYoung man, I am not accustomed to being disobeyed.\u201d Pa said.<\/span><\/p>\n

Clay looked into the dark eyes of the man who would have been his step-father. He truly wished to belong. He just wasn\u2019t sure. \u201cYes sir,\u201d he said quietly as he turned to retrieve his items from the bunk house.<\/span><\/p>\n

Dinner was a rambunctious affair. Joe couldn\u2019t keep quiet. He chattered on and on about the Ponderosa. The only one who wasn\u2019t talking much was Ellie. Pa watched the children around the table. He didn\u2019t know if Ellie was quiet because of the spanking she had gotten earlier or this new brother was bothering her.<\/span><\/p>\n

The clock chimed 8:00 and the family was still sitting at the supper table. \u201cBed time Ellie,\u201d Pa said.<\/span><\/p>\n

Ellie just nodded her head and went up the stairs.<\/span><\/p>\n

The next morning found all of the children, including Clay at the breakfast table. The grownups talked about the tasks for the day. Clay and Joe were going back down to the corral to work the horses. Ellie just sat and watched everyone. She just pushed her food around on her plate. Pa looked at Ellie, \u201cEllie eat your breakfast.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

She looked as if she hadn\u2019t even heard him, \u201cMay I be excused.\u201d she asked looking at her father.<\/span><\/p>\n

Frustrated, Pa responded, \u201cNo, I just told you to eat your breakfast and I mean now!\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cPapa, if I eat, I\u2019m going to get sick. Honest.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cOk, go on up to your room. Remember, you are to stay in your room the rest of the week.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYes sir\u201d, she said morosely.<\/span><\/p>\n

Clay watched his new little sister, something definitely wasn\u2019t right. She sure had been a little keg of dynamite yesterday. He wondered as he headed for the corral with Joe.<\/span><\/p>\n

The days passed into weeks. Clay had been with them about month. Ellie avoided him at all costs, while Joe followed him around like a puppy. Pa had gotten wires verifying his story, so Ellie found out that Clay was truly her brother. He tried to talk to her, ask her questions, found out what she liked and disliked. She spoke very little to him, she answered \u201cyes sir\u201d and \u201cno sir\u201d and that was about it.<\/span><\/p>\n

Clay was perplexed, he wasn\u2019t sure why Ellie didn\u2019t like him. He wasn\u2019t sure that he should stay on the Ponderosa anyway. But the longer he stayed, the more withdrawn Ellie became. He noticed how attached to Adam she was. Ellie would stick to either Adam or her father like glue when the family was around. She became withdrawn from Joe as well. She treated Hoss the same as always. He decided he better talk to Mr. Cartwright.<\/span><\/p>\n

He approached Joe\u2019s father. He just thought of him as Joe\u2019s father or \u201csir\u201d. The patriarch of the Cartwrights did not want to be called Mr. Cartwright, but Clay couldn\u2019t bring himself to call him \u201cBen\u201d, or \u201cPa\u201d, so he just settled on \u201cSir.\u201d Pa was sitting in the great room at his desk. Clay walked in and directly over to Pa\u2019s desk. \u201cSir, may I have a word with you?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cSure, son, what is it?\u201d Pa asked putting the contract he had been reviewing down.<\/span><\/p>\n

Clay noted the familiar term \u201cSon\u201d. \u201cWell, sir, it\u2019s about Ellie. I\u2019m worried about her. Is she normally quiet and I don\u2019t know, like \u2026. the fire\u2019s gone out of her?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Pa smiled at his newest son. He regretted that Clay hadn\u2019t grown up on the Ponderosa with the rest of his children. He would have been a fine addition to the family. \u201cNo, Clay, she is usually not at all quiet and she normally is a ball of fire. I think she is trying to settle a number of things in her mind.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWhat do you mean sir?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWell, I think she can\u2019t imagine her mother being married to anyone else. She just can\u2019t reconcile in her mind that her mother had a son and that you\u2019re not my natural son. You see even though she knows that Marie was not Adam and Hoss\u2019 mother, in her mind they never had another one. The boys refer to her as Mama, so she\u2019s used to us all being in one family. It has never crossed her mind that I would be a step-father, even though Adam and Hoss had a step-mother. She\u2019s grown up with the boys, it would never enter her mind that they aren\u2019t her full blood brothers.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Clay nodded. \u201cYes sir, she sure seems attached to Adam.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI think she doesn\u2019t trust you and doesn\u2019t want to get close to you.\u201d Pa added.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWhy would you say that sir?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWell, when you first came to us you said you might not stay. You mentioned how attached to Adam she is. Adam has loved and cared for her so long that even when he gets married eventually and moves out of the house, chances are he will be nearby somewhere.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Clay stood soaking this all in.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cAnd one more thing son.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

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

\u201cYou\u2019ve occupied her very best friend in the whole world and she probably doesn\u2019t know how to react.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cJoe?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Pa nodded smiling.<\/span><\/p>\n

Clutching his hat in his hands, Clay said, \u201cI\u2019ll see what I can do about that, sir.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cClay?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cSir?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cIt would probably help if you started calling me Pa instead of Sir all the time.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Clay looked down and blushed. \u201cYes sir, I mean Pa.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Pa smiled. Things were definitely going to improve around here. He very much enjoyed having another son and he was certain that he would have his little girl back to normal shortly. He smiled again to himself as he went back to reviewing the contracts on his desk.<\/span><\/p>\n

The next morning, the family was sitting around the breakfast table. It was Saturday and Ellie had the day to herself as long as her chores were done. \u201cMay I be excused?\u201d Ellie asked.<\/span><\/p>\n

Pa started to excuse her, when Clay broke in. \u201cUmm, Ellie would you like to go to town with me and Joe, we were going to pick up supplies?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Ellie bit her lip. She really wanted to go into town and see if the mercantile had any new books. She didn\u2019t really want to go with Clay. She wasn\u2019t sure she liked him. She was mad at Joe for ignoring her.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cCome on Ellie, I\u2019ll take you and Joe to the International House for lunch.\u201d Clay wheedled.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cReally?\u201d she asked. The International House was her favorite place to eat in Virginia City, she didn\u2019t get to go there very often.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cCome on Sissy, you can see if Mr. Callahan has that book.\u201d Joe said smiling at her.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWhat book?\u201d interrupted Adam.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cTreasure Island.\u201d Ellie supplied. She turned to her father. \u201cPapa, can I go?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cAre your chores done?\u201d he asked.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cNo sir, not yet.\u201d she frowned.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWell, go finish your chores and you can go.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cEllie, we can wait, Joe and I have chores we need to do.\u201d said Clay.<\/span><\/p>\n

She looked at her father, \u201cMay I be excused?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYes, your excused and put on a dress before you go to town. You can\u2019t very well walk into the International House dressed like a boy.\u201d Pa said.<\/span><\/p>\n

Ellie started to retort,\u201dwhy not\u201d, but decided Papa might change his mind if she sassed. \u201cPapa?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

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

\u201cMay I have my allowance?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Pa took a $5 bill out of his wallet and handed it to her.<\/span><\/p>\n

Her eyes got big, \u201c$5, Papa?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWell, I thought you might need a little extra for the book.\u201d Pa said smiling.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cOh no sir, I\u2019ve been saving.\u201d Ellie said shaking her head and handing him back the money.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cNo, baby, Papa\u2019s treat.\u201d he said pushing her hand away.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cThank you Papa, thank you!\u201d Ellie exclaimed throwing her arms around her papa\u2019s neck and giving him a big hug.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYou\u2019re welcome baby. Now scoot and do your chores.\u201d he said returning her hug and giving her a soft swat on the bottom as he turned her toward the front door.<\/span><\/p>\n

Clay watched the scene and smiled. He had heard about how much a spoiled brat Ellie was. He hadn\u2019t really seen her act that bratty. She had a temper, but only when she was defending her family. She was spoiled on love, not material things. She knew how to save her money and knew the value of a dollar. He had been watching her. She certainly had the men wrapped around her little finger, but none of them had any trouble doling out the discipline when she needed it. She didn\u2019t seem to need it too often. He reached the conclusion that she was a very special girl, loved in deed.<\/span><\/p>\n

Ellie finished her chores in record time. She raced up to her room to clean up and put on a dress. Jeez, I hate dresses she thought as she pulled a dress over her head. She was trying to button the buttons in the back, but quickly became frustrated. She started to swear, but she thought against it, if Papa heard her or Adam, she wouldn\u2019t get to go get that book. She steeled herself, breathed in and counted to ten. Just then Joe tapped on her door.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cHeh, Sissy, ready to go?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

No! I can\u2019t get these darn buttons!\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Joe quickly entered her room, \u201cBetter not let anyone hear you say that or you\u2019re gonna get a swat.\u201d Joe said laughing.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cOnly Adam and Papa.\u201d she said letting Joe button her up.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cOh, I don\u2019t know, I\u2019m thinking you\u2019d get one from Clay or Hoss just as easy.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYou know Hoss don\u2019t swat us. Well not too often. Why Clay?\u201d she asked.<\/span><\/p>\n

Joe just stared at her, \u201cBecause he is our brother and he is as much older than you than Adam is of me, and Adam sure don\u2019t have problems swatting.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cOh,\u201d she said.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cBesides Ellie, he was making me \u201cyes sir\u201d and \u201cno sir\u201d when I first met him cuz he said I wasn\u2019t 21 yet. I think he\u2019s kinda like Adam on that stuff.\u201d Joe said as he finished the last button. \u201cCome on girl, time\u2019s a wasting.\u201d Joe grabbed Ellie by the hand and head for the stairs. The both ran down the stairs and met Clay at the front door.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cHeh you two, quit running on those stairs.\u201d Clay chastised.<\/span><\/p>\n

Ellie looked at him startled. Gosh I guess he is like Adam, she thought.<\/span><\/p>\n

Clay loaded them up in the buckboard and headed for Virginia City. Ellie was very quiet. She contemplated this new big brother of hers. She just had a hard time accepting him as a big brother. Joe seemed to be ok with it. Why couldn\u2019t she? Well at any rate, Joe seemed to be a little less enamored with Clay and was paying more attention to her. She thought about that. Maybe she was jealous. Oh boy, she had never thought about that. The preacher said jealousy was a sin. She resolved that she would try her hardest not to be jealous. She was lost in her own thoughts, when Joe punched her in the arm.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cHeh Sissy? Sissy?\u201d Joe said.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cDarn you, Joe Cartwright. Why\u2019d you do that?\u201d Ellie said her eyes flaring.<\/span><\/p>\n

Clay stopped the buckboard and looked at Ellie. \u201cNo more swearing missy or I\u2019ll give you a swat.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Oh great she thought, he really is another big brother. She just looked at Clay. \u201cDarn ain\u2019t a swear word and who says you get to swat me anyway?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWell, Pa did for one.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Ellie gasped, that was the first time Clay had referred to her Papa as his Pa.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cAnd for another thing, any big brother would swat a little sister for swearing.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cIt ain\u2019t a swear word.\u201d Ellie muttered.<\/span><\/p>\n

Clay held up his hand, \u201cI\u2019m not arguing with you Ellie, I\u2019m just telling you how it is.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cSissy, I\u2019ve been trying to ask you where you wanted to go once we got to town. I mean besides Mr. Callahan\u2019s?\u201d Joe broke in, trying to diffuse the fight that was about to start.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cOh, sorry Joe. Um, I really just want to get that book. Maybe we could go in the sweet shop and get Papa some of those cakes he likes?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Fortunately, the three arrived in Virginia City about then, all arguments and swear words forgotten. Clay grabbed Ellie by the waist and set her down. She started to go into Callahan\u2019s by herself. Clay caught her dress, \u201cJust a minute, you need to have someone go in the store with you.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Ellie just rolled her eyes. \u201cOh for heaven\u2019s sake, I can go in to the store by myself. Jeez, you\u2019re worse than Adam and Papa put together.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Clay grinned. \u201cOk, you can go in the store to check on the book. Joe you go give the supply list to Mr. Callahan and I told Pa I\u2019d check on those wagon wheels at the blacksmith. I\u2019ll meet you both at the International House in 30 minutes.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Joe and Ellie headed into Mr. Callahan\u2019s. Clay headed for the blacksmith. Joe handed Mr. Callahan the supply list. \u201cMr. Callahan we\u2019ll be back after lunch to pick up the supplies.\u201d Joe said.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cRight, Little Joe, see you in about 2 hours?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYes sir. Heh Sissy, I\u2019m going down to Spence Pullans to look at rifles. Pay attention to the time and meet me over at the International House in 30 minutes, ok?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Ellie was looking at Mr. Callahan\u2019s inventory of books. She saw two she wanted. She was trying to make up her mind. \u201cOk,\u201d she said not really paying attention.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cSissy, 30 minutes?\u201d Joe said checking to make sure she understood.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYeah, ok, 30 minutes Joe.\u201d she answered.<\/span><\/p>\n

Joe ran out and headed to Spence Pullans rifle shop. He really shouldn\u2019t leave Ellie in a store by herself, but he figured what could happen? Mr. Callahan would watch for her. Knowing Ellie, she would still be standing there 30 minutes later staring at those books. He\u2019d probably have to drag her out to lunch.<\/span><\/p>\n

Ellie finally chose \u201cTreasure Island\u201d and handed the book to Mr. Callahan.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cTough choice, Ellie?\u201d asked Mr. Callahan kindly.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYes sir, you have \u201cLittle Women\u201d, too.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cMaybe next time, honey.\u201d Mr. Callahan said taking \u201cTreasure Island\u201d from Ellie.<\/span><\/p>\n

Ellie nodded her head, \u201cI have to save my allowance, maybe next month.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cHoney, where\u2019s your brothers, I know your Pa don\u2019t like you walking around Virginia City by yourself.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cMe and Joe is suppose to meet Clay over at the International House for lunch. I told Joe, I\u2019d meet him over there.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Mr. Callahan accepted her payment and handed her back the book. \u201cI don\u2019t know honey, maybe you should wait for one of your brothers to come get you.\u201d He was a little worried, Clay had stirred up the miners a few weeks back and things still hadn\u2019t settled down.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cNo sir, Mr. Callahan, I can go by myself. For heaven\u2019s sake, I\u2019m 12.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Mr. Callahan eyed her.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019m sorry sir, I didn\u2019t mean to be disrespectful. It\u2019s just that the International House is just one street over, I can go without getting into trouble.\u201d Ellie said quickly apologizing.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cHoney, I know you\u2019re a big girl now, but things in town can get rough. I wouldn\u2019t want you to get caught up in anything.\u201d he said shaking his head.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cMr. Callahan, I promise to go straight to the International House.\u201d Ellie pleaded.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cOk, go on now, go straight over.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYes sir!\u201d Ellie said grabbing her book and running out before he changed his mind.<\/span><\/p>\n

Meanwhile, Joe arrived at the International House. He looked around and didn\u2019t see Clay or Ellie. He smiled to himself. Imagine that he thought, I\u2019m actually the first one here. He looked around to see Clay entering the International House.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cJoe, where\u2019s Ellie?\u201d Clay said.<\/span><\/p>\n

Joe shrugged his shoulders. \u201cI left her at Mr. Callahan\u2019s, she was taking forever looking at the books.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Clay gave him a smoldering stare, \u201cJoe, you know your \u2026 I mean Pa doesn\u2019t like her to be alone in town, even for a minute.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Joe shrugged away guiltily. \u201cI can go get her.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cNo, let\u2019s both get her and then we can have lunch.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

They exited the restaurant and headed a street over to get Ellie. They came upon Ellie obviously arguing with two boys.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cHeh, Cartwright brat.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWhat do you want?\u201d asked Ellie.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cJust a message for your brother.\u201d said Max Stockwell grabbing her book from her and tossing to his brother Stan.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYeah,\u201d said Stan catching the book, \u201ctell your brother the miners are going to kill him.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Stan tossed the book back to Max, \u201cYeah, the miners take care of their own.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Ellie ran in between them. \u201cGive it back!\u201d she said reaching for her book.<\/span><\/p>\n

Max gave her a shove as he tossed the book to Stan laughing. Ellie ran toward Stan. Stan tossed the book back toward Max shoving Ellie in to the dirt. Ellie was so mad, she started to cry. Stan and Max took turns pushing her and tossing the book. The book finally dropped.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWhoops!\u201d said Max as he picked up the book and tore some the pages and let them flutter to the street.<\/span><\/p>\n

Joe looked at Clay, \u201cClay, that\u2019s Max and Stan Stockwell. Their Pa\u2019s a miner.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Clay and Joe took off running toward Ellie. Just as Max moved to shove Ellie once more, Clay caught her in his arms. Ellie started to fight thinking it was Stan. \u201cEllie, I got you baby.\u201d Clay said sharply.<\/span><\/p>\n

Ellie looked up to see Clay. She breathed a sigh of relief and collapsed into his arms crying. Clay hugged her to him and then pushed her behind him. He turned on the Stockwell boys. By this time, Joe had Max in a head lock. Stan was just standing there looking at Clay. \u201cIf you have something to say to me little boy, you better say it.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Stan bristled at being called a little boy. \u201cI ain\u2019t no boy!\u201d he spat.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cOh really, then why are you picking on my little sister. You outweigh her by a good 70 pounds. You really think picking on a little girl and destroying her book is something a man would do?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Stan was about Joe\u2019s size. Clay was a lot bigger than he thought he\u2019d be. Max was just a bit bigger than Stan. Clay looked at Joe, \u201cLet him go, Joe.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Joe wanted to beat the tar out of him for even touching his baby sister. Joe didn\u2019t let go. \u201cJoe, I said let him go.\u201d Clay said sharply. Joe shook his head no. \u201cNow, Joe!\u201d Clay said giving him that big brother voice.<\/span><\/p>\n

Joe sighed and released Max. Clay looked at Stan and Max. \u201cNow boys, if your Pa has a bone to pick with me then let him do it man to man. You two leave my family alone.\u201d With that Clay grabbed Ellie\u2019s hand and Joe by the arm and led them away to the International House.<\/span><\/p>\n

Clay had just changed in Ellie\u2019s eyes into one of her big brothers, another brother to keep her safe and secure. As relieved as she was about Clay, she was devastated about the book. She pushed her food around on her plate.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cEllie, eat your lunch.\u201d said Clay gently.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019m not hungry.\u201d she said.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cAww, baby don\u2019t let those yahoos upset you.\u201d said Clay patting her hand.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cBut Clay, they destroyed my book. I\u2019ve been waiting months and months, saving my allowance. I was just lucky Papa gave me money. I spent his money and now I have nothing.\u201d she said miserably.<\/span><\/p>\n

Clay\u2019s eyebrows went up. He didn\u2019t think she had ever called him by name. \u201cI\u2019ll tell you what, if you finish your lunch, I\u2019ll get you a new book. It was on account of me that that boy ripped up your book anyway.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Ellie looked at him surprised. Wow, he sure was nice. Maybe it wasn\u2019t so bad having another big brother. \u201cReally?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cSure, little sister, sure.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

When they finished lunch, they headed back to Callahan\u2019s to collect the supplies. Clay and Joe loaded the buckboard. Clay handed Ellie, \u201cLittle Women\u201d. Sorry, baby, Mr. Callahan didn\u2019t have another copy of \u201cTreasure Island\u201d. He said he\u2019d order you a copy.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Ellie\u2019s eyes lit up. \u201cThanks, Clay, I mean thanks big brother.\u201d She reached over and gave him a hug and a kiss.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWell,\u201d said Joe, \u201cyou\u2019re part of the family now. Once you start getting Ellie\u2019s hugs and kisses you\u2019re all right in her book.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Clay just grinned, \u201cWell that\u2019s just fine little brother, that\u2019s just fine.\u201d Clay slapped the horses with the reins and headed toward home with his baby brother and his baby sister. He was really feeling like he was home.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<\/div>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/div>\n
Disclaimer:<\/span>\u00a0All publicly recognizable characters and settings are the property of their respective owners. The original characters and plot are the property of the author. No money is being made from this work. No copyright infringement is intended.<\/span><\/div>\n
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<\/div>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"

Summary: \u00a0Just imagine if Ellie had met Clay…. \u00a0<\/p>\n

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