{"id":39446,"date":"2022-08-17T16:13:20","date_gmt":"2022-08-17T20:13:20","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/?p=39446"},"modified":"2025-09-25T15:38:02","modified_gmt":"2025-09-25T19:38:02","slug":"kindred-spirits-by-vcls","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/?p=39446","title":{"rendered":"Kindred Spirits (by ElayneA)"},"content":{"rendered":"

Summary:\u00a0 Adam and Adreille\u2019s relationship had an odd start.\u00a0 \u201cBut why?\u201d <\/em>they thought.<\/p>\n

Rated: T<\/p>\n

Word Count: 7641<\/p>\n

<\/p>\n

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

Prologue<\/em><\/strong><\/p>\n

Hustle and bustling at the Ponderosa, a late start this day: Hoss making a pile of hotcakes to take on the trip, Adam swallowing a quick coffee, and Little Joe coming down the stairs, sleep still in his eyes. \u201cHurry up, we\u2019re going to be late!\u201d Ben hollers.<\/p>\n

Virginia City was in a hub of activity. Six wagons will be arriving with medical supplies to help build the new clinic; this will be followed by a rodeo and dance. All the sponsors were there waiting to greet the medical teams. Roy Coffee, looking at his watch, \u201cWhere are Ben and the boys?\u201d Doc Martin, fussing with his tie, mumbled. The Cartwrights came racing in, dismounted, and walked over to them. \u201cA late start, but at least we made it,\u201d said Ben, shaking Roy\u2019s and Doc\u2019s hands and acknowledging with a nod to the Barclays and Nelsons.<\/p>\n

Just then, the lookout horse and rider came racing around the corner, \u201cThey\u2019re here, just beyond the ridge.\u201d A few minutes later, six covered wagons\u2014especially designed for the trip\u2014came into view and proceeded to head down the main street. They were greeted with cheers from the crowd.<\/p>\n

All medical personnel were mounted, so I can say with relief it was nice to feel the ground beneath my feet. My name is Adrielle O\u2019Connor. I am a fourth-year medical student, and I and three other med students are in charge of ten nurses and the training program that is to be set up. Well, at least we think<\/em> that we\u2019re in charge. Sister Mary Margaret had other ideas. I\u2019m not her favourite person since she always catches me rolling my eyes.<\/p>\n

We were introduced to everyone; there was lots of handshaking and hugs. \u201cThis is Ben Cartwright and his sons Adam, Hoss, and Little Joe,\u201d Doc Martin mentioned to me. I said, \u201cHello, nice to meet you, and thank you for such a great welcome.\u201d Adam: \u201cYou have an accent.\u201d I looked at him and responded, \u201cSo do you.\u201d Hearing a smothered laugh, I looked over at Little Joe standing there covering his mouth. Adam stood back, folded his arms, and stared at me. I did the same: folded my arms and stared right back at him. The staring match began. I felt myself losing, but I was determined to hold my own. Joe was standing there watching this play out.<\/p>\n

\u201cAdrielle! Come here. We need to get started.\u201d This was one time I could kiss Sister Mary Margaret. Oh, thank God<\/em>, I thought. No rolling eyes this time. Walking away, I was resisting to turn around. Well, I did. He was watching. And as he turned to follow Roy Coffee, he tipped his wing and moved on. What just happened?<\/em> I thought to myself, well, that didn\u2019t turn out well<\/em>.<\/p>\n

It had been about two weeks since I had met Adam Cartwright. The new clinic was up in no time. Training the nurse\u2019s aides was intense, so I had no time to think about our very odd meeting. Today, I had a queer feeling that he was around, but I would look over my shoulder. Nothing. Sister Mary Margaret: \u201cYou look tired. Go get some rest.\u201d She then chased after some cowboys, who were distracting two of our prettiest nurses.<\/p>\n

In a deep sleep, I was walking towards a lake, then slowly into it. I was up to my chest when the darkness turned into Adam\u2019s eyes. Suddenly, the water was covering my head, and I couldn\u2019t breathe. I started to panic\u2014only to wake with a thud when I hit the floor. A nightmare? Or what was it?<\/em><\/p>\n

Looking at the clock, I thought, geez Louise, it was only four in the afternoon!<\/em> Sighing, I got dressed and decided to get some fresh air and come to grips with my dream.<\/p>\n

There was a flurry of activity at Doc\u2019s. The Cartwrights and the Barclay\u2019s horses were outside. \u201cOh, this doesn\u2019t look good,\u201d I muttered. I rushed over to help while I could hear three of the other medical team behind me. Adam was next to Little Joe, who looked like he\u2019d been shot in the arm as well as two others.<\/p>\n

Doc Martin looked up, \u201cGrab one and help me!\u201d I turned to the nearest one, who happened to be Little Joe.<\/p>\n

\u201cOkay, let\u2019s see what we have here.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cIt\u2019s not that bad,\u201d he winced.<\/p>\n

\u201cLet me be the judge of that,\u201d I responded, feeling Adam\u2019s eyes on me. \u201cHelp me get his shirt off while I get the supplies.\u201d<\/p>\n

I had to take charge of the moment. While he was undressing Little Joe, I got the syringe ready.<\/p>\n

\u201cWhat are you going to do with that?\u201d Joe asked.<\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019m going to give you an injection, which will numb your arm and help me take out the bullet. It is a new procedure. You\u2019ll be right as rain.\u201d<\/p>\n

Little Joe didn\u2019t seem to be convinced and neither did Adam\u2014both looked green around the gills. Haha, tough guys,<\/em> I thought to myself.<\/p>\n

With little commotion, the bullet was out, and I was ready to stitch him up. Adam: \u201cThank you.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cYou\u2019re welcome,\u201d I responded, and we locked eyes.<\/p>\n

\u201cHello! Bleeding to death here!\u201d yelled Little Joe.<\/p>\n

I looked over at Little Joe with annoyance, \u201cReally?\u201d<\/p>\n

Adam tapped him behind his head and got up and left.<\/p>\n

It was a couple of hours before everything settled down. Roy Coffee and his deputy were taking statements. I was putting stuff away when I felt the hairs on my arm stand up. Adam was standing next to me, his arms brushing against mine. \u201cDinner? I know you\u2019re hungry. Your stomach gurgled while you were taking care of Little Joe.\u201d<\/p>\n

I looked at him. \u201cI didn\u2019t notice I was hungry until you mentioned it. Yes, that would be nice. I just need to finish here, in about ten minutes?\u201d<\/p>\n

Adam: \u201cI\u2019ll be outside.\u201d<\/p>\n

Not a smile. Well, if he won\u2019t smile, I won\u2019t smile.<\/em> As I closed the door behind me, he walked up and offered his arm. And off we went to dinner.<\/p>\n

Dinner actually turned out to be much better than I expected. Adam, toying with his sherry glass, looked over at me. \u201cThere is something about you.\u201d<\/p>\n

I stopped with my glass halfway to my mouth, \u201cWell, there\u2019s something about you also.\u201d That was random, <\/em>I thought.<\/p>\n

Adam paid for the meal and escorted me back to the hotel. We said goodnight, and as he walked away, I felt sort of sad. I was hoping for at least a kiss on the cheek. I guess I\u2019m not his type.<\/p>\n

Meanwhile, Sister Mary Margaret was on a rampage down the hall and a floor below. Praise be she wasn\u2019t on my floor; this woman could hear a gnat sneeze all the way from Paris, France and still tell it to shut up! I felt sorry for those aides, but better them than me\u2014don\u2019t get me wrong, I feel their pain! Smiling, I went to my room. Leaning against the closed door, there was a \u201cting\u201d\u2026or was there? Ting Ting!<\/em> It came from my window. I went over and opened it. Adam: \u201cCan you come down?<\/p>\n

\u201cWhat? Now?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cYes, Now.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cOkay, coming!\u201d What on earth, <\/em>I thought.<\/p>\n

I walked out and uttered to myself, \u201cWhere is he?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cPsst! Over here!\u201d<\/p>\n

Walking to the end of the hotel and looking around the corner, I was suddenly grabbed, and strong arms enfolded me. Before I could utter a sound, Adam\u2019s mouth was on mine. It wasn\u2019t a very gentle kiss, his whole mouth covered mine roughly. It took me a few seconds, but I responded in kind. \u201cI need oxygen!\u201d and pushed him away. He laughed.<\/p>\n

\u201cOh, it can laugh!\u201d I chuckled.<\/p>\n

He reached me and pulled me to him, giving me a kiss on the cheek. \u201cWe should go in before I lose control.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cThere will be no loss of control here, young man!\u201d shouted Sister Mary Margaret. Didn\u2019t I say that she had an uncanny sense of hearing?<\/p>\n

Adam led me back under the watchful eye of Sister, both of us trying not to laugh. \u201cDoesn\u2019t she know how old I am?\u201d Adam said.<\/p>\n

\u201cDoesn\u2019t make a difference. You could be eighty-seven and still get it.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cWell, goodnight.\u201d As he leaves, he tips his hat at Sister Mary, who, yes, actually<\/em> giggled. I can\u2019t remember if I walked or floated upstairs.<\/p>\n

A few days later, it was time for us to leave and head back to our homes. All the goodbyes were said, and townspeople were handing us gifts and baskets of food and drink for the journey. The ranchers and cowboys escorted us part-way.<\/p>\n

I hadn\u2019t seen Adam after that night, so I didn\u2019t look for him. I felt sick. Sister Mary Margaret came up to me, putting her hand on my leg \u201cYou make a good medical professor and doctor. We didn\u2019t see eye-to-eye all the time\u2014excuse me if I overstep my boundaries, but there is something that I can\u2019t quite put my finger on. You and Adam seem like an old couple. Not old in age but in spirit, like old souls.\u201d<\/p>\n

Riding along with our group, a lone rider on top of a ridge came riding down on quite a head-tosser of a horse. The rider was wearing a black hat and a mustard-coloured jacket. It was Adam. My heart rejoiced! He pulled up, and he smiled and winked. I barely managed to stay on.<\/p>\n

\u201cHow far are you coming?\u201d I asked.<\/p>\n

\u201cHow far would you like me to come?\u201d he smoldered.<\/p>\n

\u201cRight up to my doorstep,\u201d I said, knowing full well that wouldn\u2019t happen.<\/p>\n

\u201cI wish I could,\u201d Adam responded, reaching out and taking my hand.<\/p>\n

\u201cYou have an open invitation anytime.\u201d I smiled, and he smiled back.<\/p>\n

Silently riding side-by-side and looking over at Adam, I saw that he was studying me.<\/p>\n

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

Chapter 2<\/em><\/strong><\/p>\n

Adam: \u201cWant to go for a ride? You\u2019ve been studying a while. It\u2019s time for a break.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cNo need to ask me twice.\u201d Dropping the book and following him out the door. Sport was saddled along with another horse. \u201cWhat happened to my saddle?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cLearn to ride Western. This is a good of a time as any!\u201d Adam declared.<\/p>\n

\u201cSo you\u2019re teaching me to ride or break my arm?\u201d I laughed while mounting up.<\/p>\n

\u201cWhere did you hear that?\u201d he asked.<\/p>\n

\u201cLittle Joe came in an hour ago announcing that you were going to teach me to ride Western, and then Hoss perked up along with Hop Sing and said that your student broke her arm.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cNo respect from this family,\u201d Adam muttered.<\/p>\n

The panoramic view of the Ponderosa was astounding! Sitting there in silence and taking it all in, Adam said, \u201cBeautiful view, isn\u2019t it?\u201d<\/p>\n

I nodded in agreement, and he moved Sport closer to me, our legs touching. Adam reached over and took my chin into his hand. \u201cDo you have feelings for me?\u201d he asked, his face close to mine.<\/p>\n

\u201cYes. I do very much,\u201d I responded, hoping that he wouldn\u2019t notice my trembling.<\/p>\n

He brushed his lips against my cheek all the way to my ear whispering, \u201cEnough to make love with me?\u201d<\/p>\n

Oh my goodness, <\/em>I thought. Hopefully my \u201cyes\u201d sounded like a \u201cyes\u201d. Suddenly, a passionate kiss ensued until the horses started to fuss.<\/p>\n

\u201cRace you back! I\u2019ll give you a head start,\u201d said Adam.<\/p>\n

\u201cBoy, I don\u2019t need a head start. Eat my dust!\u201d<\/p>\n

Ben and Hoss were in town for a meeting, and Little Joe was preparing himself for a date. \u201cHow do I look?\u201d asked Little Joe.<\/p>\n

\u201cDashing. Are you planning to knock her out? Did you bathe in that lotion?\u201d I joked.<\/p>\n

Little Joe just smiled and tipped his hat and was gone.<\/p>\n

Hop Sing: \u201cNo. 3 son on date.\u201d And he started opening windows.<\/p>\n

Sitting in front of the fireplace, I was wondering where Adam was. But just then, Adam opened the door, wrinkled his nose, and beckoned me. Stretching and following him out the door I asked, \u201cOh, another ride?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cSsh! Just mount up,\u201d he hushed me.<\/p>\n

Not a sound could be heard on the ride. We came up to a line shack. \u201cA line shack?\u201d I asked, \u201cAren\u2019t they used for weary trappers, ranch hands, and open to all?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cYup,\u201d he confirmed, \u201cnot this one. I use this to read and to play music.\u201d He paused and looked at me. \u201c\u2026No, it\u2019s not<\/em> a love nest,\u201d helping me dismount, he continued, \u201cbut now it is.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cOh, I am in for a surprise,\u201d I said.<\/p>\n

Entering the shack, the fireplace was roaring. On the table were two bottles of wine: one red and one white as well as a tray of fruit, vegetables, and sandwiches. I looked over at him, pointed to the tray, and Adam responded bashfully, \u201cHop Sing, he saw me trying to put a tray together.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cOh,\u201d I responded, and I continued to look around the shack. The atmosphere was warm and inviting. Catching the corner of my eye was the bed which had fresh sheets and extra pillows. The sheets were turned down.<\/p>\n

I was nervous and excited at the same time. We had come very very<\/em> close at times, but now it seemed to be actually happening. On hearing the door lock, I grabbed a glass of wine, pretending to be calm. Adam came over, and his jacket was off. He placed his gun belt and hat on the table. Nobody wears a gun belt like him\u2026\u2014okay, concentrate! <\/em>I thought to myself before he reached over and took my wine glass away.<\/p>\n

\u201cYou\u2019re drinking the wrong wine. Mine is red, and yours is white,\u201d he said.<\/p>\n

I wanted to have a comeback, but my brain had stopped working. Adam pulled me closer, looking into my eyes, smiling, and pressing his lips against mine. I placed my hands on his shoulders, feeling the muscles under his shirt, and he pulled me in closer, his hands on my back. Opening my mouth with his tongue, we had a long, passionate French kiss. For a second, he removed from my back, unbuttoned his shirt, and then mine\u2014all the while kissing my neck which drove me wild! He undid the snaps of my skirt, which I stepped out of, and I then noticed that he was barefooted. When did that happen?<\/em> I wondered. Taking my hand, Adam led me to the freshly sheeted bed, where we made love. It was mind-blowing.<\/p>\n

I woke up with Adam leaning over me and kissing my shoulder. \u201cWe need to get up,\u201d he said.<\/p>\n

\u201cOh I know\u2026don\u2019t want to\u2026can\u2019t we just stay here?\u201d I whined.<\/p>\n

\u201cWhen we\u2019re married,\u201d he responded before I rolled over and looked at him. Pinching my nose, he continued, \u201cI hoped and assumed you\u2019d marry me.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cYou hoped and assumed right.\u201d<\/p>\n

We made it back just before the rest of the gang got home. Sitting in front of the fireplace, holding glasses of wine, Adam\u2019s arm was draped over my shoulder. Ben came over and got himself a sherry. \u201cWhy are meeting\u2019s so long? I\u2019m tired,\u201d he groaned, looking over at us.<\/p>\n

\u201cMeet your future daughter-in-law,\u201d Adam said.<\/p>\n

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

Chapter 3<\/em><\/strong><\/p>\n

Sitting in the tearoom, I was staring out the window watching the people while Adam was reading a newspaper, one of the three he had bought. \u201cNothing much in real estate,\u201d he said.<\/p>\n

Turning and looking at the frown on my husband\u2019s face, I reached over and squeezed his arm. \u201cFinish your coffee, and let\u2019s go back home,\u201d I responded. As an intern, we\u2019re living at the married student housing, which Adam was not overly fond of, but it was great when he visited from Ponderosa. And even greater when I visited him.<\/p>\n

We left and stepped into the bright daylight. Adam folded his newspaper and offered me his arm before we strolled down the street window-shopping. When we came to an alleyway, looking inside, I said, \u201cOh that looks interesting!\u201d \u201c\ud835\udd1c\ud835\udd22 \ud835\udd12\ud835\udd29\ud835\udd21\ud835\udd22 \u212d\ud835\udd32\ud835\udd2f\ud835\udd26\ud835\udd2c \ud835\udd16\ud835\udd25\ud835\udd2c\ud835\udd2d\ud835\udd2d\ud835\udd22\u201d the sign said.<\/p>\n

\u201cWant to go and look?\u201d Adam asked, \u201cWe might find some interesting items as a book or two.\u201d<\/p>\n

As we entered, the door chimed, sounding like a clock instead of the normal wind chimes. Adam, of course, had to go investigate. \u201cAdam, leave it alone,\u201d I said.<\/p>\n

\u201cHello! How may I help you?\u201d a voice called out.<\/p>\n

It took a while for our eyes to adjust to the dimness. A giant of a man came out from behind the counter and walked towards us. I was amazed at how nimble he was around all the crowded items, unlike my Adam, who, at the moment, was like a bull in a china shop as he was trying to catch a vase.<\/p>\n

\u201cPlace your newspaper here and look around,\u201d the giant said, going back to the counter. Reaching under, he pulled out a ring tray. Adam and I went over to look at what he was showing us, and he caught me staring at him. The giant looked up. I was greeted with the oddest blue eyes: no irises, the whole pupils were blue. He smiled and turned back to Adam before beckoning to me, \u201cCome and look.\u201d So I did.<\/p>\n

Adam and I saw beautiful rings! The ones that caught our eyes were the rings that were shaped with two \u201cA\u201ds and one \u201cC\u201d: our initials. Adam picked the bigger one up, it was the perfect fit. He then placed the smaller one on my finger. They fitted like they were made for us. How strange<\/em>, I thought.<\/p>\n

\u201cWe\u2019ll take them,\u201d Adam said, \u201chow much?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cFive hundred pounds for both,\u201d the man responded.<\/p>\n

Adam looked up with a raised eyebrow, \u201cFive hundred pounds? Do you mean dollars?\u201d he questioned.<\/p>\n

\u201cYes, my mistake. I\u2019ll take a draft if you don\u2019t have cash.\u201d<\/p>\n

Adam looked at me. We had the cash, so I nodded. Then, smiling, we left the shop with our new rings. Adam\u2019s had three diamonds and an emerald\u2014a symbol of rebirth, his birthstone. Mine had four diamonds as they are a symbol of clarity and strength, my birthstone.<\/p>\n

\u201cWhat luck! We\u2019ll get them cleaned and appraised,\u201d Adam declared.<\/p>\n

We turned the corner, and the giant called out, \u201cMr. Cartwright! You forgot your newspapers.\u201d<\/p>\n

Adam turned and retrieved his papers as I tripped over a step looking at my ring. Adam laughed, and I responded with sarcasm, \u201cYou\u2019re funny. Let\u2019s get dinner.\u201d<\/p>\n

Adam looked up from his chair before he asked, \u201cDid you get me an extra newspaper?\u201d<\/p>\n

No, why?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cI only had three. Now there\u2019s four,\u201d he said, \u201cbut it\u2019s missing pages.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cDoes it have cartoons?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cWoman!\u201d he exclaimed, and I smiled. There are times when I loved to exasperate him. \u201cActually,\u201d he continued, \u201conly the real estate part.\u201d He held up the paper, and there was a picture of a Tudor-style house for sale located six hours from here and six hours from the Ponderosa. \u201cPerfect! Right in the middle!\u201d Adam declared, \u201cLet\u2019s go down to the office tomorrow.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019d also like to return to the shop. I saw a dollhouse\u2014I totally forgot about it with the rings,\u201d I trailed off before continuing, \u201cAdam?\u201d<\/p>\n

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

\u201cDid you give the Curio Shopkeeper our last name?\u201d<\/p>\n

Adam looked up and responded, \u201cNo. I thought you might have.\u201d<\/p>\n

I shook my head, and he tilted his head in a thoughtful manner before I said, \u201cLet\u2019s finish our breakfast. What do you want to do first?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cLet\u2019s drop the rings to be cleaned, go to the Curio Shoppe, and then to the real estate office that\u2019s listed here,\u201d he responded, tapping the paper.<\/p>\n

\u201cYes, boss,\u201d I chuckled, playfully bowing.<\/p>\n

Adam laughed, \u201cYou\u2019re learning fast, but not fast enough.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cYou\u2019re a brat,\u201d I remarked.<\/p>\n

At the jewelry store, we were told the rings would be ready in the afternoon\u2014great timing! \u201cDo you remember where the Curio was?\u201d I asked.<\/p>\n

\u201cWell, when we left the tea house on Jim\u2019s Street, we turned right and walked almost to the end of the block,\u201d he responded before him and I headed in that direction and found the alleyway. As we entered, we found the shop but no sign. As Adam looked through the dirty windows, I tried the door, and it opened. We went inside: dark, cobwebs, layers of dust that you could write your name in. Adam and I looked at each other exclaiming, \u201cWow!\u201d This is the right place; I can see the imprint of the ring box, <\/em>I thought. We stood there for a few minutes and left, closing the door softly behind us, and walking slowly hand-in-hand, we went to Murdoch\u2019s to pick up the rings.<\/p>\n

\u201cMr. and Mrs. Cartwright! I\u2019m Mr. Murdoch. I took the liberty to value your rings, and I suggest you get them insured,\u201d he said.<\/p>\n

Adam raised an eyebrow, asking, \u201cHow much?\u201d<\/p>\n

Mr. Murdoch looked at Adam, responding, \u201cHow much did you pay?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cWe got them from a Curio Shoppe.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cWhat Curio Shoppe? \ud835\udd1c\ud835\udd22 \ud835\udd12\ud835\udd29\ud835\udd21\ud835\udd22 \u212d\ud835\udd32\ud835\udd2f\ud835\udd26\ud835\udd2c \ud835\udd16\ud835\udd25\ud835\udd2c\ud835\udd2d\ud835\udd2d\ud835\udd22? The owner died fifty years ago. The shop has been vacant since,\u201d he said, looking at us strangely. He then smiled and continued, \u201cNever mind what you paid. Here\u2019s the evaluation papers.\u201d He handed me the papers, shook Adam\u2019s hand and left with his cane. He was close to ninety-seven years.<\/p>\n

As we walked out, Adam said, \u201cWe\u2019ll deal with it later; we need to get to the real estate office. Do you want to walk or take a cab? There\u2019s a horse and cab ready over there.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cNo,\u201d I responded, \u201clet\u2019s walk.\u201d<\/p>\n

The agent must have been waiting for us, for we were greeted with smiles and handshakes before saying, \u201cWe can go tomorrow. It\u2019s a fair way from here.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cThat would be fine,\u201d said Adam.<\/p>\n

\u201cShall we say five in the morning?\u201d the agent asked, looking at me.<\/p>\n

Why look at me?<\/em> I thought. \u201cThat is fine by me,\u201d I said, frowning at him.<\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019ll bring a cab around the student residence,\u201d said the agent, and with that, Adam and I took a cab home.<\/p>\n

\u201cCould this day be even more strange?\u201d I said.<\/p>\n

\u201cWait until tomorrow. Let\u2019s see what that brings us,\u201d Adam responded, kissing the top of my head.<\/p>\n

\u201cIt was just like a magic trick, the way the shop disappeared.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cMore magical moments are probably going to happen, like the one that is going to happen now,\u201d Adam said, grabbing me to him and then locking the doors. As I watched him take his shirt off coming towards me, I read the evaluation sheet.<\/p>\n

\u201cOur rings are worth close to one hundred fifty thousand dollars,\u201d I said.<\/p>\n

Adam stopped dead in his tracks. \u201cWhat?!\u201d he exclaimed.<\/p>\n

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

Chapter 4 <\/em><\/strong><\/p>\n

Spot on, five in the morning, the agent was at the door. \u201cGood morning, I brought breakfast and lunch and made reservations for dinner afterwards,\u201d he greeted.<\/p>\n

Adam whispered in my ear, \u201cHe\u2019s looking for a sale.\u201d<\/p>\n

I slept most of the way when I suddenly woke up, like someone was touching my cheek and was whispering to me \u201cwake up\u201d. I looked over, thinking it was Adam, but he was deep in conversation with Mark, the agent. \u201cHey sleepyhead, we are five minutes away,\u201d said Adam.<\/p>\n

I smiled and responded back, \u201cI\u2019m feeling oddly strange of how I woke up.\u201d It took me a minute to get my bearings. Taking a swig of coffee to perk me up and rubbing the back of my neck, I looked up to see two enormous horses made of wrought iron as the gates to the property. The path to the house wasn\u2019t as long as you expected it, but there were a number of overgrown trees hiding the house. Then, it was there. Adam and I gazed at it. This was our house\u2014love at first sight! Adam was in a totally different world; he was moving around in almost a sleep-like state. The architectural work was fabulous! Adam, being an architect, was in seventh heaven. One word came out of his mouth: \u201cSold\u201d.<\/p>\n

I nodded in agreement, looking at Adam. \u201cYes.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cThe house has some furniture, clocks, musical instruments, etc. It hasn\u2019t been occupied since 1746,90 years ago. It all comes with the sale. You just have to pay the back taxes, and it\u2019s yours,\u201d the agent declared.<\/p>\n

Adam looked at Mark, asking, \u201cWhat? How much?\u201d Both of us waited for the hammer to drop.<\/p>\n

\u201cI have it here: fifteen hundred,\u201d Mark answered. You could hear the wind rustling through the trees. Mark repeated himself, \u201cOne thousand five hundred and zero cents.\u201d<\/p>\n

On the journey back, Adam was asleep this time, but I had thoughts of renovations racing through my head. At dinner, we signed the papers, and it was ours. Mark asked if we were going to rename the property, and Adam hadn\u2019t thought about that, turning to me and asking, \u201cWhat do you think, Addy?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cI hadn\u2019t given it a second thought, either. It\u2019s been such a whirlwind of a week,\u201d I responded.<\/p>\n

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

Chapter 5 <\/em><\/strong><\/p>\n

Pulling the wagon up to the step, I watch Adam dismount and come towards me frowning. \u201cYou were travelling quite fast,\u201d he said.<\/p>\n

I rolled my eyes. \u201cI wanted to get here and get started,\u201d I retorted, sticking my tongue out.<\/p>\n

He stood there with his hands on his hips, his gun belt sitting nicely. Concentrate! We have a lot to do in a month,<\/em> I mentally reprimanded myself.<\/p>\n

Adam took the horses while I went inside. It strangely felt like home.<\/p>\n

We decided to spend the week with Hoss, Little Joe, and Candy coming in a day or two to help. \u201cWe can put the boys in the living room, and we can stay in the library. I brought mattresses that they can use for beds,\u201d I said.<\/p>\n

\u201cThey\u2019re bringing their bed rolls,\u201d Adam responded.<\/p>\n

\u201cI think they\u2019d might like to sleep on something other than the floor, Adam.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cUpstairs or downstairs?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cUpstairs,\u201d I answered.<\/p>\n

As Adam and I stood in the large hallway, he looked over my shoulder, saying, \u201cWe can put one of the floor clocks in that corner.\u201d He walked off to one of the rooms as I went to the corner, and standing there, I didn\u2019t see anything at first. Running my hands across the wall, it was smooth. As I walked away, my hand brushed against what felt like a knob, and then looking closer, it was a knob. How did I not feel that at first?<\/em> I thought. Turning it, the door opened to the stairs going up to the attic.<\/p>\n

I call to Adam, \u201cCome take a look at this!\u201d<\/p>\n

He saunters over, looks up the stairs and at the door. \u201cDon\u2019t go up until I get back,\u201d he says. After a while, he returned with a large brick to block the door open.<\/p>\n

\u201cAdam,\u201d I said, \u201cI\u2019ll go up first just in case any stairs are rotten.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cWhat if you fall through? You\u2019re the doctor,\u201d he responds back, looking at me.<\/p>\n

\u201cThere has not yet been a piece of rotten wood, considering how old this house is.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cTrue\u2026but I\u2019m still going first,\u201d he declared.<\/p>\n

That\u2019s okay, I have a nice view\u2026<\/em> My mind wandered off before I realized, \u2014Addy! House! House! Think \u201cHouse\u201d!<\/em><\/p>\n

The room was huge! The window was at least six to eight feet in height, providing plenty of light. Adam was at the window. \u201cI can see the backyard. There\u2019s something behind the willow trees,\u201d he noted.<\/p>\n

I glanced up at the ceiling, pointing to a trap door, and Adam looked around and found a ladder. Pushing it open, we climbed up. Standing on the roof, the view took in the whole property. \u201cLook! There\u2019s the pond I fell in,\u201d I said, pointing to the east side.<\/p>\n

No comment. I glanced to see where he was looking. \u201cLooks like another small garden hidden behind those trees. Let\u2019s check it out tomorrow or later tonight,\u201d Adam mentioned.<\/p>\n

\u201cWhat if vampires live there?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cEnough with the vampires.\u201d<\/p>\n

Returning to the room, I moseyed over to a corner. Another door\u2026why am I not surprised? <\/em>I thought. I came to the conclusion that the doors that were made to be seen were seen while others were almost invisible. This is a walk-in closet!<\/em><\/p>\n

In I went and down I went. \u201cADAM!\u201d I shouted as I was falling. I tried gripping the walls to break my fall, and my feet landed firmly on something. \u201cHoney! Honey!\u201d I called out, \u201cI\u2019m okay! I landed on a box\u2026or something.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cDon\u2019t move! I\u2019ll get a lantern and a rope,\u201d Adam shouted back.<\/p>\n

Looking down at my feet, I was standing on a sea trunk. I could make out shapes of objects from the light from the door. Squinting my eyes I thought, Wait\u2014wait a second\u2026what is that?<\/em><\/p>\n

\u201cHere, I\u2019m sending down a lantern,\u201d Adam called. As the lantern came down, I could see what it was: a library sliding ladder.<\/p>\n

I told Adam, \u201cThere are ladders everywhere in this house!\u201d Jumping off the trunk, I moved the ladder over to him, who came down quite quickly. \u201cI am fine,\u201d I said, \u201cbut look at all of this stuff! There are at least eight trunks in this secret room.\u201d<\/p>\n

Reaching down, I took the smallest chest from Adam as he climbed out. We blocked the door open with the ladder, so it wouldn\u2019t close. Sitting on the floor, I said, \u201cLet\u2019s see what we got here\u2026it has a leather covering of some sort. Should be easy to remove as the leather could be brittle.\u201d I tried to open it. \u201cNo, I guess not.\u201d Eventually, however, we opened it: inside were several velvet purses.<\/p>\n

We looked at each other, exclaiming, \u201cMoney?!\u201d Each purse was filled with different nominations of British and European currency and coins.<\/p>\n

\u201cEach of these bundles of bills are a thousand each,\u201d Adam observed, \u201c\u2026wonder if they\u2019re counterfeit.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cNo, I don\u2019t think so,\u201d I said, holding up a very rare tuppence, called a \u201cnew pence\u201d. It had Queen Elizabeth I on it.<\/p>\n

\u201cI figure a few thousand is here,\u201d Adam said, \u201cI will take it back to the Ponderosa as we don\u2019t have a safe and ask Pa about it.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cYes, we do.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cDo what?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cHave a safe. It\u2019s behind that huge desk in the library. It was hidden behind a curtain.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cYou have a magical talent of finding things,\u201d he chuckled, \u201cbut this is safer at the Ponderosa for now.\u201d<\/p>\n

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

Chapter 6 <\/em><\/strong><\/p>\n

Finishing our evening meal of cold chicken, potato salad, and wine in front of the fireplace, Adam pats the mattress. I look at him and say, \u201cWe have an hour or so of daylight. Let\u2019s see what\u2019s behind those trees if we can.\u201d I hand him a lamp. \u201cLet\u2019s go.\u201d Adam had a machete with him and began removing some of the hanging branches; he stopped suddenly and jumped back. \u201cWhat?\u201d I question, coming up to his side. There at the entrance, two huge hornet\u2019s nests, at least six to seven feet long as wide, were hanging from the trees. We backed up a respectable distance.<\/p>\n

\u201cNo one is home,\u201d I said.<\/p>\n

\u201cWhat?\u201d Adam questioned.<\/p>\n

\u201cThere are no residents,\u201d I continued as I moved closer.<\/p>\n

\u201cBe careful,\u201d said my new shadow.<\/p>\n

He threw a stone. A genetic link in all males to throw something<\/em>, I thought to myself. I turned and ordered to him, \u201cJust stay there.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cI don\u2019t want you to die!\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cAdam. Stop. Stop now,\u201d I demanded, holding my hand up. \u201cIf I turn and run, start running. Don\u2019t hesitate. Move like you\u2019ve never moved before. Got it?\u201d Adam gave a big nod of the head. I was directly under both nests; they were petrified with age. They were massive\u2014four grown men of Hoss\u2019s size could fit in. \u201cWe need to remove these before we can get into the secret garden,\u201d I said, pointing to the hornet\u2019s nests, \u201clook how well it\u2019s hidden with the perfect guards. Would you come near it if you saw those?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cI see your point. We\u2019ll get Hoss and Joe to remove them later when they get here.\u201d Suddenly, Adam looked at me, his eyes became dark. \u201cIt is getting dark\u2026vampires may come and get you,\u201d he spooked, and I screamed, laughing as we ran back to the house. \u201cGee, you run fast,\u201d he panted.<\/p>\n

\u201cWhat? You expect me to slow down? Nice try!\u201d I tripped him up, chuckling, \u201clast one in is a rotten egg!\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cNext time, I\u2019ll turn into a bat. Let\u2019s see how fast you can run then!\u201d he teased. With that, the evening ended nicely.<\/p>\n

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

Chapter 7 <\/em><\/strong><\/p>\n

\u201cSo, I was thinking\u2014I have extra time\u2014that I can come down and work on the house,\u201d I suggest.<\/p>\n

\u201cAlone?\u201d Adam questions, \u201cStay here alone<\/em>?!\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cWhy not? I feel comfort\u2014\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cNo, no, and no! Look what happened to you in the attic, the closet, and the pond! Can\u2019t wait \u2018till we go into the cellar. What are you going to find there?\u201d Adam was on a roll, gesturing with his hands. He was expecting no answer, but I had one for him.<\/p>\n

\u201cIf the floor has soil, I won\u2019t go in. Vampires bring soil from their own country,\u201d I say, and with this, I turn to run but not fast enough.<\/p>\n

\u201cHello…hello? Anyone home?\u201d a strange voice called in. The door opened, and in stepped a couple. \u201cSorry to interrupt. My name is Daniel and this is Diane. We were sent by Mr. Murdoch and Mark, the real estate agent. They said that you may be needing a gardener and a housekeeper. We have letters of introduction.\u201d Daniel turned and looked at me\u2014those eyes\u2026those strange, blue eyes.<\/p>\n

\u201cCome in,\u201d Adam responded, \u201clet\u2019s discuss the situation.\u201d After a short conversation, they were hired, which meant I could stay nights!<\/p>\n

\u201cHey Adam and Addy! Anyone home?\u201d Hoss yelled with Little Joe and Candy in tow. Hoss and Little Joe were ready to take down the huge hornet\u2019s nests. Adam and Candy were upstairs while I was downstairs in the dining room when terrible yells were heard. Hoss and Little Joe were running as fast as they can as if all of Hades was after them! \u201cAdam!\u201d Hoss bellowed, \u201cI thought you said the nests were empty!\u201d<\/p>\n

The three of us rushed out, looking over at the trees. \u201cWhat hornets?\u201d I asked.<\/p>\n

\u201cHornets as big as birds!\u201d Little Joe exclaimed.<\/p>\n

\u201cLet\u2019s go and see,\u201d Adam said. As the five of us approached, we stood at a fair distance: not a movement. Hoss stepped closer, and a few flew out. He stepped back\u2014they were gone! I stepped forward with Hoss, and only one flew out. He moved back again. I looked at the nest. Empty. Adam came up. Empty. We retreated, and it was Candy\u2019s turn. As he approached, out they came!<\/p>\n

As we returned to the house, I noticed how Daniel had been watching us. Saying nothing to the guys, I went upstairs to look out the attic window. I saw Daniel approach the hornet\u2019s nests. He was carrying what looked like a shepherd\u2019s hook and blankets. I could feel the hair on my arms and neck tingle\u2014Adam was behind me. Both of us watched as he took down the nests without a hornet in sight, laid them on the ground, and covered them with blankets which he then set on fire. As Adam and I watched, he slowly turned and looked directly at us. We didn\u2019t have time to step back, but then again, we didn\u2019t want to.\u00a0<\/strong><\/p>\n

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

Chapter 8
\n<\/em><\/strong><\/p>\n

The weather had been quite hot and humid; trying to keep cool outside was next to impossible! In the last few days, the men had been working bare-chested, except for Daniel, who wore his heavy woolen coat. His long sleeves weren\u2019t rolled up, and he was buttoned-up from the knees to the neck. While the others were glistening with sweat, not a bead was seen on him.<\/p>\n

Adam came in and started, \u201cWe\u2019re going to cut the trees. It will take us an hour; then we can see the secret garden.\u201d<\/p>\n

Just then, Daniel came in and said, \u201cI left my cup and plate in the woodcutter\u2019s shed.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cI can go and get them,\u201d I said. Something was different about Daniel, and I couldn\u2019t place my finger on it.<\/p>\n

I went into the shed, picked up the dishes, and backed into the hooks on the wall, knocking down a huge coat. That was it! He wasn\u2019t wearing his coat! <\/em>I thought. Picking it up, it was heavy\u2014something dropped out. Reaching down, it looked like a newspaper clipping. I picked it up; it was wrapped around something, tied together with yarn. I knew I should place it back, but I didn\u2019t know what pocket it fell out. Standing there with it in my hand, I tried to read the print. The yarn had come untied, and it opened to reveal a locket. Putting the dishes down, there were engravings on the locket: two \u201cA\u201ds and one \u201cC\u201d. Opening it, there were two locks of hair: one black and one reddish blonde. I closed the locket and placed it back into the newspaper clipping. Daniel came in, and I looked at him saying, \u201cI knocked your coat down, and this fell out. Sorry.\u201d I handed back to him the strange item, grabbed the dishes, and hurried out. I could feel his eyes on me.<\/p>\n

I told Adam about what had happened. \u201cDid you see what the clipping was about?\u201d he asked.<\/p>\n

\u201cNo,\u201d I said.<\/p>\n

Adam rubbed his chin in deep thought, and Little Joe popped in, grabbing a sandwich. \u201cWe\u2019re ready to go in the garden. There is a gate\u2014are you guys okay?\u201d he asked.<\/p>\n

\u201cWe\u2019re fine. Let\u2019s go see our garden,\u201d Adam answered.<\/p>\n

The gate was easy enough to open as we stepped in to be greeted by overgrowing roses and lilac bushes. What took us by surprise was a giant statue of two angels: the wings of the bigger one holding the smaller one. Candy walked around and noted, \u201cIt\u2019s a headstone. There\u2019s a grave here.\u201d<\/p>\n

Hoss questioned, \u201cShouldn\u2019t they be facing the grave?\u201d The rest of us stepped around and looked: there was no headstone with names on it\u2014or unless the names were on the angels.<\/p>\n

Little Joe looked at the angels. \u201cNope,\u201d he said.<\/p>\n

The grave was on the edge of a hill that was eroding. \u201cWe\u2019ll have to move the grave and the angels\u2026\u201d Adam started, \u201cmaybe over by that tree in the far corner. We can tidy it up and place a few benches.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cWhat a wonderful idea!\u201d I said.<\/p>\n

Daniel and Diane had shown up, watching us from the gate. They approached, saying \u201cWe would like to help.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cWe need to make this a priority. All in favour?\u201d Adam asked. We all raised our hands.<\/p>\n

\u201cWhile you guys tidy up, Diane and I will ride into town. We\u2019ll need a priest, doctor, and a medical coroner,\u201d I said. \u201cMake a list. We\u2019ll be ready to leave in an hour.\u201d<\/p>\n

As we were about to head out, Daniel approached us, mentioning, \u201cAsk for Dr. Roberts. He can get everything ready for you.\u201d<\/p>\n

Adam added, looking at me, \u201cIt will take you a few days; hurry back. I love you.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cI love you, too.\u201d<\/p>\n

A few days was an overstatement. Hitching the horses, I said to Diane, \u201cWe\u2019ll start with Dr. Roberts.\u201d<\/p>\n

As she was getting out, a priest approached me. \u201cHello, Mrs\u2026Dr. Cartwright,\u201d he greeted, extending his hand, \u201cam I correct? I am Father Joseph.\u201d We shook hands. \u201cYou\u2019re the new owners of Kindred Spirits,\u201d he added. I gave him a puzzled look, and then it dawned on me: it was the name of our property! \u201cAre you renaming the place?\u201d Father asked.<\/p>\n

\u201cActually, Adam and I haven\u2019t given it a thought\u2014we forgot. I am heading to Dr. Roberts\u2019.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cLet me walk with you; I know him personally. Besides our doctor, he\u2019s also one of the medical coroners. But you know that already.\u201d<\/p>\n

I just smiled as we walked. Upon arriving at Dr. Roberts\u2019 office, he stepped out to meet us. After a formal greeting, we signed papers, and everything was ready to go.<\/p>\n

Arriving back in the early afternoon, Adam was surprised. \u201cThat was quick,\u201d he noted, \u201cdidn\u2019t expect you back at least two to three days.\u201d<\/p>\n

Looking at him, I responded, \u201cWhy are you surprised?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cTrue,\u201d he said, \u201chow did it go?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cWell, I was met with Father Joseph, who was chatting with Little Joe.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cGood person to talk to,\u201d laughed Adam.<\/p>\n

\u201cAnd Dr. Roberts had the papers ready to go. He pretended to look around for them for at least ten minutes. I see he is with Daniel.\u201d<\/p>\n

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

Chapter 9 <\/em><\/strong><\/p>\n

Everyone was extremely tired, so it was an early night for all. Hoss, Little Joe, and Candy took their bed rolls upstairs, giving their mattresses to our guests. Tomorrow will be a big day, the exhumation day. Lying awake, side-by-side, deep in our thoughts, I popped up, leaning over Adam. \u201cDaniel and Diane were the couple that asked us to stand in for them in that town, I\u2019m sure of it,\u201d I mentioned.<\/p>\n

Adam rolled over and responded, \u201cNo, that Daniel was smaller and a flirt.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cReally? Is that all<\/em> you remembered?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cGo to sleep,\u201d he says. Morning comes early.<\/p>\n

The exhumation was scheduled for six fifteen in the morning; Hoss and Candy were at the sight already. We had all made an effort to dress with what we had. Father Joseph blessed the newly-dug grave and the angels that had been moved\u2014this time facing the grave. Then Father came over and gave the blessing over the bodies that were going to be exhumed. You could cut the silence with a knife. The only sound was made by Hoss and Candy.<\/p>\n

\u201cWe reached the bodies. They were wrapped together in cloth\u2014looks like they are in each other\u2019s arms,\u201d Hoss said. We all looked in: the bodies were in an embrace. Adam and Daniel had a large waterproof sheet to slide under the bodies to lift them with minimal disturbance. As they were moved over to their new resting place, the male\u2019s hand was exposed, revealing a hand with a ring exactly like the one on Adam\u2019s finger. Both of us decided to pretend that we didn\u2019t see it, but Daniel knew that we did.<\/p>\n

A small service was set as they were put to rest in their new resting place. Candy beckoned me over; he was in the old grave. \u201cWhat? What is it?\u201d I asked.<\/p>\n

\u201cThere seems to be a secret shelf in the side of the grave\u2026looks like something is there.\u201d Candy pulled out what was hidden: two fairly large books wrapped in oilskins.<\/p>\n

I took them over to the others, and Adam came over to take a look, noting, \u201cThey look like diaries.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cThe new grave is closed. We will need new paperwork to reopen it. I think we can forego that,\u201d Dr. Roberts said.<\/p>\n

The place was put in order, and we all left in groups. Daniel, Diane, Father Joseph, and Dr. Roberts were walking in front of Adam and I, and way in front, Hoss, Little Joe, and Candy were making a beeline for the spread that Diane had put out. Daniel did turn around once to look at us.<\/p>\n

\u201cI wonder if her ring is the same as mine,\u201d I pondered. No answer from Adam. More than likely,<\/em> I answered to myself.<\/p>\n

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

Chapter 10 <\/em><\/strong><\/p>\n

The boys were getting their horses ready, including Sport. Time for them to return. They had stayed a few extra days, and Ben needed them back for a cattle drive. The books were placed on the desk, and tapping it, Adam mentioned, \u201cA lot of questions will be answered: the rings, the house, why they were buried how they were, who they are, and us.\u201d<\/p>\n

I walked over to Adam and placed my head on his arm and cupped my hand over his on the books, responding, \u201cThe answers would be a story in itself.\u201d<\/p>\n

Little Joe urged, \u201cWe have to leave if we want to make good time.\u201d<\/p>\n

Adam said, holding me close, \u201cPromise not to read until I get back. I want us to read them together.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cI promise, darling,\u201d I agreed.<\/p>\n

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

Epilogue<\/em><\/strong><\/p>\n

Saying goodbye to the boys and Adam, I waved as I watched them leave. Turning to walk back in, I suddenly realized a question I needed to ask to Adam. Running down the path, I yelled, \u201cAdam\u2026 Adam\u2026ADAM!\u201d<\/p>\n

He stopped Sport, and he headed back to me in a gallop. Adam asked, \u201cWhat\u2019s wrong?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cNothing. We have been so preoccupied with all the craziness that we forgot\u2026are we renaming the place or keeping the original name?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cI think we should keep its name.\u201d He frowned, continuing, \u201cJiggle my memory\u2026what is it?\u201d<\/p>\n

I told him, \u201cKindred Spirits.\u201d<\/p>\n

Nodding his head, he replied, \u201cWell fitting. I\u2019ll get a new sign made up.\u201d Smiling, he blew a kiss, gave me a wink, tipped his wing, and rode back to join Hoss, Little Joe, and Candy, who were waiting at a polite distance.<\/p>\n

I walked past the library, stopped, and went over to the books. Placing my hand on them, I said, \u201cWe have to wait until Adam gets back.\u201d I thought I heard whisper.<\/p>\n

\u201cThat is fine\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

Looking around, I noticed one of the windows were open with a slight breeze coming in. Must be the breeze,<\/em> I thought, heading towards the kitchen.<\/p>\n

The End<\/p>\n

Author\u2019s Note:<\/p>\n

Written for the 2022 Ponderosa Paddlewheel Poker Tournament.\u00a0\u00a0 The game was Five Card Draw and the words and\/or phrases I was dealt were:<\/p>\n

magic tricks
\nhornets
\nlock of hair
\nnewspaper clipping
\nmoney<\/p>\n

<\/div>\n

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

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

Summary:\u00a0 Adam and Adreille\u2019s relationship had an odd start.\u00a0 \u201cBut why?\u201d they thought.
\nRated: T Word Count: 7641<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":12400,"featured_media":23242,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"template-full-width-post.php","format":"standard","meta":{"_jetpack_newsletter_access":"","_jetpack_dont_email_post_to_subs":false,"_jetpack_newsletter_tier_id":0,"_jetpack_memberships_contains_paywalled_content":false,"_jetpack_memberships_contains_paid_content":false,"footnotes":"","jetpack_post_was_ever_published":false},"categories":[40],"tags":[158],"class_list":["post-39446","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-challenges","tag-pppt","wpcat-40-id"],"a3_pvc":{"activated":true,"total_views":780,"today_views":0},"jetpack_featured_media_url":"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/08\/Ponderosa-Paddlewheel-boat.jpg?fit=225%2C225&ssl=1","jetpack_likes_enabled":true,"jetpack-related-posts":[{"id":12915,"url":"https:\/\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/?p=12915","url_meta":{"origin":39446,"position":0},"title":"Escape to Ponderosa – A Missing Scene (by Jenny G)","author":"Gwynne & JennyG","date":"January 11, 2001","format":false,"excerpt":"Summary:\u00a0 A missing scene for the episode. Rating:\u00a0 T (implied sex)\u00a0 (640 words)","rel":"","context":"In "Drama"","block_context":{"text":"Drama","link":"https:\/\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/?cat=23"},"img":{"alt_text":"","src":"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/wp-content\/uploads\/2014\/05\/SAS-Stories.jpg?fit=613%2C480&ssl=1&resize=350%2C200","width":350,"height":200,"srcset":"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/wp-content\/uploads\/2014\/05\/SAS-Stories.jpg?fit=613%2C480&ssl=1&resize=350%2C200 1x, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/wp-content\/uploads\/2014\/05\/SAS-Stories.jpg?fit=613%2C480&ssl=1&resize=525%2C300 1.5x"},"classes":[]},{"id":14377,"url":"https:\/\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/?p=14377","url_meta":{"origin":39446,"position":1},"title":"My Son, My Son, My Cancelled Wedding (by Robin)","author":"profrobinw","date":"January 1, 2000","format":false,"excerpt":"Summary: \u00a0Even my own stories aren't safe from a REALLY Lost Episode story. \u00a0Inspired by A Modern Cartwrights Story 4 - Remnants of the Past. Rating: \u00a0T \u00a0(2,625 words)","rel":"","context":"In "Drama"","block_context":{"text":"Drama","link":"https:\/\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/?cat=23"},"img":{"alt_text":"","src":"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/06\/ARLE-e1497282889671.png?fit=570%2C416&ssl=1&resize=350%2C200","width":350,"height":200,"srcset":"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/06\/ARLE-e1497282889671.png?fit=570%2C416&ssl=1&resize=350%2C200 1x, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/06\/ARLE-e1497282889671.png?fit=570%2C416&ssl=1&resize=525%2C300 1.5x"},"classes":[]},{"id":49271,"url":"https:\/\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/?p=49271","url_meta":{"origin":39446,"position":2},"title":"The Wizard of POZ meets the Ponderosa (by LindaBl)","author":"Preserving Their Legacy Author","date":"May 22, 2002","format":false,"excerpt":"Summary:\u00a0 A funny parody of Bonanza and The Wizard of Oz Rating:\u00a0 G\u00a0\u00a0","rel":"","context":"In "Crossover"","block_context":{"text":"Crossover","link":"https:\/\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/?cat=24"},"img":{"alt_text":"","src":"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/03\/Preserving-Their-Legacy.png?fit=732%2C477&ssl=1&resize=350%2C200","width":350,"height":200,"srcset":"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/03\/Preserving-Their-Legacy.png?fit=732%2C477&ssl=1&resize=350%2C200 1x, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/03\/Preserving-Their-Legacy.png?fit=732%2C477&ssl=1&resize=525%2C300 1.5x, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/03\/Preserving-Their-Legacy.png?fit=732%2C477&ssl=1&resize=700%2C400 2x"},"classes":[]},{"id":11409,"url":"https:\/\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/?p=11409","url_meta":{"origin":39446,"position":3},"title":"Wanderlust (by Indyanna130)","author":"Indyanna130","date":"July 16, 2015","format":false,"excerpt":"Summary:\u00a0 What could drive a man to leave. Words:\u00a0 1326 Rated:\u00a0 G","rel":"","context":"In "Drama"","block_context":{"text":"Drama","link":"https:\/\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/?cat=23"},"img":{"alt_text":"","src":"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/wp-content\/uploads\/2014\/04\/coming-soon-5.jpg?fit=768%2C576&ssl=1&resize=350%2C200","width":350,"height":200,"srcset":"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/wp-content\/uploads\/2014\/04\/coming-soon-5.jpg?fit=768%2C576&ssl=1&resize=350%2C200 1x, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/wp-content\/uploads\/2014\/04\/coming-soon-5.jpg?fit=768%2C576&ssl=1&resize=525%2C300 1.5x, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/wp-content\/uploads\/2014\/04\/coming-soon-5.jpg?fit=768%2C576&ssl=1&resize=700%2C400 2x"},"classes":[]},{"id":45751,"url":"https:\/\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/?p=45751","url_meta":{"origin":39446,"position":4},"title":"The Fastest (by Judy)","author":"Judy","date":"April 17, 2000","format":false,"excerpt":"Summary:\u00a0 The consequences of having a gun not made for ranchers. Rating:\u00a0 PG Word Count:\u00a0 12,450","rel":"","context":"In "Action\/Adventure"","block_context":{"text":"Action\/Adventure","link":"https:\/\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/?cat=2"},"img":{"alt_text":"","src":"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/03\/Preserving-Their-Legacy.png?fit=732%2C477&ssl=1&resize=350%2C200","width":350,"height":200,"srcset":"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/03\/Preserving-Their-Legacy.png?fit=732%2C477&ssl=1&resize=350%2C200 1x, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/03\/Preserving-Their-Legacy.png?fit=732%2C477&ssl=1&resize=525%2C300 1.5x, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/03\/Preserving-Their-Legacy.png?fit=732%2C477&ssl=1&resize=700%2C400 2x"},"classes":[]},{"id":15525,"url":"https:\/\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/?p=15525","url_meta":{"origin":39446,"position":5},"title":"Ben Raised His Boys RIGHT (by Robin)","author":"profrobinw","date":"December 4, 2001","format":false,"excerpt":"Summary: The trials of a Cartwight father. Rating: T (1,080 words)","rel":"","context":"In "Drama"","block_context":{"text":"Drama","link":"https:\/\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/?cat=23"},"img":{"alt_text":"","src":"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/06\/ARLE-e1497282889671.png?fit=570%2C416&ssl=1&resize=350%2C200","width":350,"height":200,"srcset":"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/06\/ARLE-e1497282889671.png?fit=570%2C416&ssl=1&resize=350%2C200 1x, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/06\/ARLE-e1497282889671.png?fit=570%2C416&ssl=1&resize=525%2C300 1.5x"},"classes":[]}],"jetpack_sharing_enabled":true,"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/posts\/39446","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/users\/12400"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Fcomments&post=39446"}],"version-history":[{"count":0,"href":"https:\/\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/posts\/39446\/revisions"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/media\/23242"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Fmedia&parent=39446"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Fcategories&post=39446"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Ftags&post=39446"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}