{"id":45644,"date":"2000-04-13T08:47:42","date_gmt":"2000-04-13T12:47:42","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/?p=45644"},"modified":"2025-02-27T12:04:49","modified_gmt":"2025-02-27T17:04:49","slug":"the-escape-journey-back-to-boston-by-jenniferk22","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/?p=45644","title":{"rendered":"The Escape… Journey Back to Boston (by Jenniferk22)"},"content":{"rendered":"

Summary:\u00a0 Adam’s journey back to the Ponderosa after graduating college.\u00a0 Check out my story, “The College Years<\/a>”
\nRating:\u00a0 T\u00a0 (47,185 words)<\/p>\n

<\/p>\n

\n

The Brandsters have included this author in our project:\u00a0Preserving Their Legacy<\/a>. To preserve the legacy of the author, we have decided to give their work a home in the Bonanza Brand Fanfiction Library.\u00a0 The author will always be the owner of this work of fanfiction, and should they wish us to remove their story, we will.<\/p>\n

\n

The Escape… Journey Back to Boston<\/strong><\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Chapter 1<\/p>\n

He lay semiconscious, same as he had for days, weeks, months. He wasn\u2019t sure. Time had long ago escaped him, and now his mind was filled only with small
\nwindows of lucidity as he wavered between reality and nothingness. He felt himself laying over a horse, tied to a saddle, his arms dangling loosely towards the ground. His broken hand throbbed with each step of the horse, though his mind was unable to focus on this fact. For a moment he opened his eyes, recognizing his surroundings for only an instant. He heard laughter surround him, the same laughter that had tortured him since the day he was taken from the ranch. Lapsing back into unconsciousness, laughter was all he heard.<\/p>\n

\u201cCartwright, don\u2019t you want to be awake to see your family again?\u201d James Cain laughed pushing Adam from the horse head first.<\/p>\n

Adam slipped to the ground, landing directly on his head, then flipping over resting on his back. His eyes flickered for a moment as his body was racked with pain.<\/p>\n

Laughter echoed again as he felt his body rock from the sharp kicks of his tormenters who had surrounded him.<\/p>\n

\u201cThat\u2019s enough boys, for now. Let his family find him. If he isn\u2019t dead, he\u2019ll wish he were, and that\u2019s good enough for me. Games over Cartwright for now.\u201d<\/p>\n

He listened as the sound of hooves passed close to his head, grazing his hair as they passed by. He felt the hot sun on his blistered face, and tried to roll himself over for some reprieve. His body however would not respond as his mind screamed out in agony. He prayed that he would soon escape once again into nothingness, hoping this time it would be for good. His body trembled with fever, causing his broken body to vibrate, sending pain shooting through every orifice. A single tear trekked down his cheek, as he waited for death to claim him.<\/p>\n

Chapter 2<\/p>\n

\u201cPa, we going to check the East Pasture today. Last time I was there, there weren\u2019t much left to graze on. We really should move the herd further west.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cNot today Hoss, it\u2019s been a long day already. Let\u2019s get home and enjoy some of Hop Sings fine cooking.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cPa, I was planning on going in to town tonight. There\u2019s a show I would like to see. Lady Chavez is the star. I got three tickets in case you and Hoss wanted to join me.\u201d Joe looked at his father expectantly.<\/p>\n

His father had spent most of his day\u2019s at the ranch, hardly seeking entertainment, or the company of other\u2019s. The family used to attend many shows together, before that fateful night had came and changed their lives forever. He watched his father struggle, his chin twitched slightly, and Joe immediately regretted his suggestion. Since Adam was taken, Ben had blamed himself for his son\u2019s death. Anytime he was faced with a reminder of the past, he curled into himself, the grief for his oldest son being too much to take.<\/p>\n

Never finding a trace of Adam, having no body to bury, had been the hardest blow for the family to take. They had searched for eight months now, hired private investigators from the city, and alerting every town and city within 5000 miles to keep a look out. When dried bones had suddenly turned up in a desert 300 miles from the Ponderosa, a telegram was sent out that the bones more than likely belonged to Adam. The city of Freeport had disposed of the bones themselves, denying Ben the right to bury his own son.<\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019m sorry Pa, I know you\u2019re tired. I shouldn\u2019t have suggested it. We\u2019ll spend the evening here.\u201d Joe said after receiving no reply from his father for some time.
\n\u201cNo Joe, you and Hoss should go. It\u2019ll be a nice change of pace for the two of you.\u201d<\/p>\n

The ranch house came in to view, and Joe sighed. He had a habit since he was a young child of looking for his brother\u2019s horse. Sport had been a graduation gift for Adam, and he cared deeply for the horse. Joe caught Adam many times in the barn tending the horse, speaking softly to it. Sport stood in his stall. Hoss had tended the horse, exercising him regularly, but each time they rode up to the ranch it was a reminder that his brother was no longer with them.<\/p>\n

\u201cHey Adam, don\u2019t let Pa know I told you this, but he\u2019s got a surprise for you waitin\u2019 at home.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cJoe! Pa said that was a secret, you ain\u2019t supposed to say nothing!\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cThat\u2019s why I told Adam not to say anything to Pa. You ain\u2019t gonna are you Adam?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cNo Joe, I won\u2019t say anything. What is it?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cADAM! Hoss yelled, receiving two glares along with a fanfare of shushes. \u201cIt\u2019s a secret, and we ain\u2019t gonna tell. No more talk about it till we get home!\u201d Hoss said changing his voice to a whisper, and glancing at his father who was driving the wagon.<\/p>\n

\u201cYeah, it\u2019s a secret. Don\u2019t ask no more question\u2019s!\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cAwe c\u2019mon, it\u2019s my first day back. I\u2019ve been on the stage for as long as I can remember. My brother\u2019s here know a secret, and they won\u2019t tell me. You know how I feel about surprises. How about just a hint.\u201d Adam said with a gleam in his eye. His being home made him feel young again, he missed the comfortable banter he could share with his brother.<\/p>\n

\u201cBoys, I am not deaf. Just because I am driving the wagon does not mean I don\u2019t know what you three are up too. Adam, you will have to wait until you get home for your surprise. Remember what I tell you boys each Christmas?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cIf we take a peek, or find out what they are before Christmas morning, you\u2019ll give our gifts to children who aren\u2019t so nosey.\u201d Adam smiled, remembering his father\u2019s lectures the many times he found the boys snooping around the ranch.<\/p>\n

\u201cThat\u2019s right, and same goes here. There\u2019ll be no more talk about it understand!\u201d Ben said trying to hold a stern tone as a smile spread across his face. He hurried the team on, as anxious to get home as his boys.<\/p>\n

The three exchanged amused smiles, as they knew their father was not angry, as he had made out to be. Feeling the wagon speed up, Adam lay his head against the sideboards. He listened to his brother\u2019s talk back and forth, exchanging idea\u2019s of what they had in store for their oldest brother when they got home.<\/p>\n

The wagon pulled to a stop, causing Adam to open his eyes. The ranch house loomed in front of him. \u201cHome.\u201d He thought as his eye\u2019s lit up at the thought. Jumping out of the wagon he headed towards the house.<\/p>\n

\u201cHop Sing!\u201d He called as he made his way to the kitchen.<\/p>\n

\u201cMr. Adam you home!\u201d Hop Sing said wiping his hands on his apron as he went to greet him. Adam pulled him into a brief hug. \u201cYou too thin, Hop Sing job make sure you get \u2018nough food. Make favorite meal for dinner. Pot Roast and Potato\u2019s.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cThank you Hop Sing. Food just isn\u2019t the same in the east.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cAdam, c\u2019mon on! Pa\u2019s ready to give you your surprise!\u201d Joe shouted as he streaked into the kitchen.<\/p>\n

Adam caught the twelve year old as he slipped on the floor, falling towards the heavy wood counters. \u201cWhoa, little buddy. I see some things haven\u2019t changed.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cC\u2019mon, before he changes his mind and makes us wait till after dinner!\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cAlright, alright. I\u2019m coming. Lead the way little brother.\u201d<\/p>\n

Joe grabbed Adam\u2019s wrist and pulled him towards the front door. He quickened his pace as he made his way towards the barn. \u201cWe\u2019re coming Pa!\u201d He shouted as they neared the barn doors.<\/p>\n

\u201cBring him in Joe!\u201d Hoss shouted back.<\/p>\n

\u201cClose your eyes!\u201d<\/p>\n

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

\u201cClose your eyes Adam, you can\u2019t go in till there shut.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cJoe I\u2019m not closing my eyes.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cPlease! I don\u2019t want you to see right away, I want to be in front of you so I can see your face.\u201d<\/p>\n

Adam raised his eyebrows. Seeing the shine in his baby brother\u2019s eyes always caused his heart to swell with love. Giving in easily, he closed his eyes without a word.<\/p>\n

\u201cOkay, you can open \u2018em now.\u201d<\/p>\n

Adam opened his eyes, and was face to face with a red beauty. The horse was nearly as tall as he was. He remembered right before he left for college he and his father had made a trip to San Francisco. When there, Adam had admired a horse much like this one. His eyes welled with tears, realizing his father put so much thought into a gift for him. He knew money was tight, as his father had put so much into his college.<\/p>\n

\u201cPa, this is too much. I don\u2019t know what to say.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cYou earned him son.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cThank you Pa.\u201d<\/p>\n

Ben pulled his son into a tight embrace. Feeling Adam tremble in his hold, he knew his son was struggling with emotion. Knowing how Adam felt about sharing his feelings, he pulled away.<\/p>\n

\u201cWhat are you gonna name him Adam?\u201d Little Joe asked, patting the horse\u2019s nose.
\nHe cleared his throat and looked back at the horse. A name passed through his mind, bringing a smile to his face. His grandfather had often called him by a nickname whenever they we\u2019re bantering with each other.<\/p>\n

\u201cSport.\u201d He whispered.<\/p>\n

\u201cSport?\u201d Hoss said, thinking that a strange name for a horse.<\/p>\n

\u201cSport.\u201d He said again, his eye\u2019s far away as memories of his years in Boston flooded his mind.<\/p>\n

\u201cPa, what do you reckon that is?\u201d Hoss asked pointing to a shadow in the distance.<\/p>\n

\u201cI can\u2019t tell. Be careful son, don\u2019t ride up too quickly. If it\u2019s an animal, we don\u2019t want to startle it.\u201d<\/p>\n

Hoss walked his horse slowly towards the still figure that lay prone on the ground. Getting closer, he saw that it was the body of a man. His clothing was tattered, hanging in shreds, some of which blew in the wind. The man was rail thin, his ribs protruding from his sides. Lacerations were visible in the areas the shirt and pants no longer covered. The man lay face up, a long beard covering the bottom half of his face.<\/p>\n

\u201cPa, it\u2019s a man. I think he\u2019s dead, he ain\u2019t moving.\u201d Hoss said calling back to his father who followed behind him.<\/p>\n

Dismounting from their horses the three men walked carefully towards the prone figure. The man\u2019s eyes were closed, the skin on his face blistered from long days in the sun. Long curly hair blew around the man\u2019s face, and the stench was unbearable.<\/p>\n

\u201cWho you reckon it is Pa?\u201d Hoss asked looking over at his father who had bent down next to the body.<\/p>\n

\u201cHoss, help me get him inside!\u201d Ben said with a tone full of urgency.<\/p>\n

\u201cShouldn\u2019t we go for the sheriff?\u201d Joe asked, wondering why his father\u2019s face had suddenly transformed into that of sheer anxiety.<\/p>\n

\u201cNo! Go for the doctor. Hoss, help me get him inside.\u201d Ben yelled, lifting the man\u2019s head from the ground. \u201cGet him some water.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cPa? I don\u2019t\u2026\u2026\u2026\u2026..\u201d Hoss started as he bent to pick up the body.<\/p>\n

\u201cIt\u2019ll be fine Adam, just hang on son. Pa\u2019s got you now. Pa\u2019s got you.\u201d Ben whispered as his voice broke into a sob.<\/p>\n

Both boys faces suddenly filled with recognition. Joe wasted no time mounting his horse and galloping to fetch the doctor. Hoss lifted his brother easily, feeling nothing but bones, through the tattered clothing. Tears spilled down his cheek as his brother showed no response to his being lifted. Carefully he lay him in his bed, entering the bedroom that had lain untouched for eight months.<\/p>\n

\u201cWe need to get these clothes off Pa.\u201d Hoss said running downstairs to fetch a knife. \u201cHop Sing, it\u2019s Adam. We found Adam, he was here, I mean, he\u2019s hurt.\u201d<\/p>\n

Hop Sing listened as Hoss stammered out an explanation. Upon hearing the word hurt, he instantly jumped into action retrieving supplies. Hop Sing followed Hoss back upstairs, and stopped instantly upon seeing the horrible suffering Adam must have undergone. He was unrecognizable. Ben set to cutting off his son\u2019s clothing, gagging when he saw the extent of damage his body had endured. Lash marks covered his body, results of beating with sticks, belts, and what looked to be harness straps. Some wounds had healed over, causing scarring, other\u2019s were scabbed over, and infected. Some looked fresh. It looked as if all of his ribs were either cracked or broken, boot prints were noticeable all over his upper body, showing blue, or purple. His right hand was broken, swollen and a rainbow of colors. Both eyes were swollen shut, and his bottom lip was split. Ben could not control his sobs as he tried to wash away his son\u2019s many wounds, to no avail. He knew his son would die, his breathing was slow and shallow. His body had taken too much punishment to pull through, and even if he was strong enough to fight, his body was racked with infection. His skin was burning with fever and sweat formed on his brow dripping down into his beard.<\/p>\n

Hoss stepped beside his father, controlling his own rage upon seeing his brother\u2019s battered body. He lay a hand on his shoulder and pulled him upwards. \u201cThe doctors coming Pa. All we can do is try and keep his fever down.\u201d Hoss said stopping his father from rubbing the wet cloth over the many bruises. \u201cPlease Pa, you\u2019re gonna hurt him, the doc needs to clean out those wounds.\u201d<\/p>\n

Ben felt his son stop his hand. He flashed him a look of anger before collapsing beside his eldest on the bed. The bed shook from his sudden movement, but Adam did not stir against the pain it must have caused.<\/p>\n

\u201cMy son. My son.\u201d Ben repeated holding tight to Adam\u2019s left hand.<\/p>\n

Chapter 3<\/p>\n

\u201cDOC MARTIN!\u201d Joe hollered as he rode towards the doctors office, praying that he was in.<\/p>\n

\u201cJoe?\u201d The doc asked walking up behind Joe\u2019s horse, his dinner in his hands.<\/p>\n

\u201cWhat is it?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cAdam!\u201d Joe exclaimed, breathing hard with relief.<\/p>\n

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

\u201cYes, he\u2019s home. He\u2019s hurt. Please, you have to hurry!\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cBut I thought\u2026\u2026\u2026\u2026.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cPLEASE!\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019m right behind you Joe.\u201d Doc Martin said sprinting towards his horse.<\/p>\n

Joe and Doc Martin raced towards the ranch, making it there in record time. Both horses were badly lathered, and Joe went right to work on them, allowing the doctor to enter the house.<\/p>\n

\u201cBEN!\u201d Doc Martin yelled as he entered the great room.<\/p>\n

\u201cDoc! Up here, in Adam\u2019s room.\u201d Hoss answered back.<\/p>\n

Doc Martin took the stairs two at a time, rushing in the room. His face registered shock for only a moment before he ordered everyone out of the room. Hoss led his father by the shoulder out of the room, not allowing him to resist the doctor\u2019s orders.<\/p>\n

Now alone with his patient, the doctor gave himself a moment to let the situation sink in. Pulling back the covers he winced when he saw the body beneath them. Bile rose to his throat and he choked it back. He thought he would never understand how man could react so violently to one another. He felt the fever, worried that it was too high. Calling to Hop Sing for more cold water he bathed the body furiously, hoping to lower his temperature. Hop Sing arrived with the water, and the doctor poured it over the body, wetting the sheets. This would be the quickest way to cool the body, giving him time to check the infections in the multiple wounds.<\/p>\n

\u201cKeep the water coming Hop Sing. We\u2019ve got to get his temperature down.\u201d<\/p>\n

As he added more and more cold water to the sheets, Adam started to stir.<\/p>\n

\u201cThat\u2019s it boy, come around a bit.\u201d The doctor soothed as Adam\u2019s body jerked against the cold.<\/p>\n

\u201cHOSS!\u201d Doc Martin called. \u201cWe need to change these sheets, could you lift him please.\u201d<\/p>\n

Doing as was asked, the bed was remade, and Adam lain down among the fresh
\nsheets. \u201cHop Sing, I want you to continue bathing his forehead and body, I am going to work on these wounds.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cWhat bout pain, can give something for pain?\u201d Hop Sing asked as Adam\u2019s body tremored.<\/p>\n

\u201cNot in this state, it could cause him to slip into a permanent coma. You\u2019ll have to help hold him down.\u201d<\/p>\n

Hours passed, and Ben paced the floor of the great room. His sadness and anxiety began to turn to anger as he received no word from upstairs. Hoss and Joe sat on the hearth, chins resting on their hands as they watched their father. Hearing footsteps echo on the stairs the three men raced to the stairs.<\/p>\n

\u201cHow is he? HOW IS MY SON?\u201d Ben yelled, his patience worn too thin.<\/p>\n

\u201cBen, he\u2019s fighting. Right now, there is really no telling. He has been badly beaten, starved, and is suffering from severe dehydration. This situation is touch and go. He regained consciousness for a few seconds, but was not responsive. I wish I knew more Ben, I really do.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cCan I see him?\u201d Ben asked, his face falling at the doctors news.<\/p>\n

\u201cOf course. We have cleaned him up Ben, we shaved him, to fix the lacerations on his face, and Hop Sing cut his hair. He said he would be more comfortable that way.\u201d<\/p>\n

Ben raced back up the stairs. The man on his bed now resembled his son. His face clean shaven, his hair cut and brushed back. He was thin, cheek bones protruded from his face, but it was now much more obvious that this was Adam. He lay a hand on the now soft cheek, tracing his finger over the stitching that closed a hidden wound.<\/p>\n

\u201cStay with us son. We need you.\u201d Ben whispered into his son\u2019s ear as he ran a hand through his hair. He felt a large bump on the top of his head and quickly pulled his hand away, fearing he would cause his son more pain. \u201cI love you.\u201d He cried as he sat in the chair next to the bed.<\/p>\n

Joe stood looking at his brother for the first time since they had found him. His eye\u2019s swam with tears, and his hands shook with anger at the sight of his oldest brother. He had never seen Adam so frail. He had only been home from college for five years now, Joe was just becoming a man in his brother\u2019s eyes, and had began to take him under his wing when he had been taken. Joe remembered that night vividly, and he hid his face in his hands as the memories overtook him.<\/p>\n

\u201cGreat job Joe. I can\u2019t believe you rode the black that long!\u201d Adam said patting his brother on the back.<\/p>\n

\u201cThanks Adam. He should be saddle broke by the end of the week.\u201d
\n\u201cYou are quite the horseman little brother.\u201d<\/p>\n

Joe blushed, as his brother complimented his abilities. Seventeen year old Joe looked up to his big brother, and any praise he received he relished. Adam had always been strict, but fair. For him to give a compliment as he had, Joe knew he was really pleased.<\/p>\n

\u201cWell, let\u2019s get home before Hop Sing threatens to go back to China.\u201d Adam laughed throwing an arm around his little brother.<\/p>\n

\u201cYeah, ole Hoss would waste away if he had to survive on our Pa\u2019s cooking.\u201d Joe joked back.<\/p>\n

The easy banter continued as the two made their way back to the ranch house. Entering the house, the laughter ended instantly. Ben lie unconscious on the floor next to Hoss. Both men were hog tied, with their arms and legs drawn up behind their backs, then tied together. Men surrounded the brother\u2019s before they had time to react, and Joe was tied in the same manner. He then was forced to watch as his oldest brother was beaten mercilessly in front of his eyes.<\/p>\n

Laughter echoed in the distance as the men disappeared with his brother dragging behind the horse. Joe struggled against his ropes, trying to break free and go after them. Getting lose was impossible, Joe\u2019s wrists and ankles were bloody by the time Hop Sing arrived back from visiting his family. By that time, no trace of Adam could be found.<\/p>\n

Hoss stood by his brother\u2019s bedside, watching his father stroke his son\u2019s left hand. His wrists were now bandaged, as the flesh had been rubbed away, more than likely by leather straps. He heard his father whispering to his brother, but he could not hear what was being said. He remembered the last time his brother had been laid up. It was a chest cold, that threatened to turn to pneumonia. Adam had denied being sick for four days straight before he finally collapsed, his body exhausted. His father had sat by his bedside just as he did now, talking softly with his son who was fighting for air. A few days later, Adam had fought off the worst of the infection, and then his father delivered a stern lecture and the threat of a tanning if he ever scared him like that again. Well, they were certainly scared now. Each family member watched the rise and fall of his chest, praying that he would take another breath.<\/p>\n

Chapter 4<\/p>\n

\u201cIt\u2019s been a week Pa. He ain\u2019t woke up but for a minute, and even then, I don\u2019t think he was really awake. He\u2019s got to eat more Pa, he\u2019s just wastin away.\u201d Hoss said, worry etched throughout his features.<\/p>\n

\u201cDon\u2019t you think I know that, I can\u2019t get him to drink! I don\u2019t know what else to do Hoss!\u201d Ben snapped back as he tried to spoon another drink of broth into his son. The broth simply ran out of the sides of his mouth.<\/p>\n

\u201cSorry Pa, I\u2019m just worried. Joe should be back with the doctor by now.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cHe\u2019ll be here shortly, maybe he can get Adam to drink.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cI hope so. I can\u2019t bear to see him like this.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cPA!\u201d Joe called from downstairs. \u201cDoc\u2019s here, he\u2019ll be up in a minute!\u201d<\/p>\n

Doc Martin came in the house behind Joe. He walked slowly up the stairs, half afraid of what he may find. Carrying his black bag he entered the room.<\/p>\n

\u201cWell Ben, what have we here?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cHe won\u2019t eat. The broth just slips out of his mouth. I\u2019ve tried everything I know. Even when he does eat, he only gets about a fourth of it down. I\u2019m afraid he\u2019s starving to death.\u201d Frustration showed plain, Ben paced back and forth in front of the bed.<\/p>\n

\u201cLet me try. Why don\u2019t you go downstairs and get a cup of coffee.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cThank you Paul.\u201d<\/p>\n

Doc Martin waited until the room was cleared. Sitting on the bed next to Adam he opened each eye checking the pupils. His eyes responded appropriately, at least that was a good sign. Picking up the bowl of warm broth, he carefully spooned some into Adam\u2019s mouth. He watched it slip back out, rolling down his chin and onto the sheets. Lifting Adam into a sitting position, being careful of his busted ribs, he positioned himself behind Adam. Cradling his head, tilted backwards against his chest he tried again. This time the broth went in, but sat in his mouth. He was not swallowing. The doctor tilted his head back a little further and rubbed Adam\u2019s throat. As he touched his Adam\u2019s apple, he felt him swallow. He continued this process until the bowl was empty.<\/p>\n

\u201cWell boy, I think we figured out how to get broth into you. But it\u2019s not enough. You\u2019ve got to eat more Adam. When are you gonna wake up for us?\u201d The doctor soothed, checking over Adam\u2019s wounds. There was still minor infections in one patch of lacerations, so he set about re-cleaning the wounds.<\/p>\n

He heard Adam hiss as the alcohol touched the wound.<\/p>\n

\u201cAdam, you awake?\u201d<\/p>\n

His eyes flickered open, but did not seem to focus on the doctor.<\/p>\n

\u201cAdam, look at me now.\u201d<\/p>\n

His head lulled forward, and his eyes began to close.<\/p>\n

\u201cNo, no. No you don\u2019t. I want you to look at me.\u201d The doctor reached forward to lift Adam\u2019s head, just as his eyes reopened. Seeing the hands coming for his face he flinched away, causing pain to ripple through his battered body. His eye\u2019s met the doctor\u2019s, fear showing clearly in his deep brown eyes.<\/p>\n

\u201cGood. Now, can you tell me what your name is?\u201d The doctor said ignoring his fearful gaze.<\/p>\n

Adam\u2019s eyes shone wet with tears, he had known nothing but torture for months, and he wondered what game was in store for him now.<\/p>\n

\u201cBEN!\u201d The doctor called, seeing the panic in his patient\u2019s face.<\/p>\n

\u201cWhat is it!\u201d Ben asked bursting into the room.<\/p>\n

\u201cHe\u2019s awake. I don\u2019t think he recognizes me. I thought maybe it would help if he saw you.\u201d<\/p>\n

Ben sat next to his son on the bed, though his son was holding his gaze on the doctor.<\/p>\n

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

Adam studied the man in front of him. He looked familiar, and he hadn\u2019t made a move to hurt him yet. Of course that meant nothing, he had played this game before. He felt weight beside him on the bed, and as the bed sunk down, his ribs cried out their pain. He continued searching the doctors face, memories playing in the back of his mind, searching for his connection to this man.<\/p>\n

\u201cSo young man, you managed to get yourself thrown from a horse?\u201d Doc Martin asked nine year old Adam who was laying with his ankle propped up in bed.
\n\u201cYes sir. I was riding Lighting, when he spooked. I think it was a snake, but I\u2019m not sure. I came down on my ankle.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cI see that. My name is Doctor Paul Martin, I\u2019m just gonna take a look see, and decide if it is broken or not.\u201d<\/p>\n

He carefully pressed his fingers along the bones of the swollen ankle, then moved the foot slightly to the left and right. He asked Adam to wiggle his toes, seeing that none of them were moving. \u201cWell, it looks like your ankle is sprained, but you have broken a bone in your foot. I\u2019m going to have to reset it. It\u2019s gonna hurt a lot. Would you like me to get your father to come sit with you?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cNo sir. I\u2019ll be alright. Pa should stay with Hoss, he was real scared when I fell.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cIf your sure?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019m sure. Go ahead doctor.\u201d<\/p>\n

He pulled the foot hard to the left, then slightly back to the right, resetting the bone in the proper place. He felt Adam\u2019s body go rigid with pain, but the boy did not cry out. Tears streaked down his cheeks, but he was silent.<\/p>\n

\u201cIt\u2019s over son. I\u2019m just gonna cast it, then leave some instructions with your father. You will need to stay in bed for a few weeks in order for the bones to properly heal. You were a very brave boy today Adam Cartwright.\u201d<\/p>\n

Adam wiped the sleeve of his nightshirt across his eyes. Then smiled up at the doctor showing off his dimples.<\/p>\n

\u201cThank you. I\u2019d like to see my Pa now if you think it\u2019s alright.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cYes, I\u2019ll get him.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cWell son, how are you feeling?\u201d Ben asked stepping in the room behind the doctor who had come to retrieve his supplies.<\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019m okay Pa. The doctor had to reset the bone, see my cast?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cHe told me. Looks like you\u2019ll be spending some time resting after all young man. We only made it here about two months ago.\u201d Ben said looking to the doctor.<\/p>\n

\u201cYes, Adam told me some about your travels.\u201d<\/p>\n

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

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

\u201cI didn\u2019t cry out. Not even when he pulled real hard. I made sure to be real quiet so\u2019s I wouldn\u2019t upset Hoss.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cThat was nice of you to think of your brother. I bet it was awful hard to keep it all inside though.\u201d Ben said sitting next to his son on the bed.<\/p>\n

Adam didn\u2019t respond, he just looked thoughtfully at his father, a slight smile played upon his lips.<\/p>\n

\u201cThat\u2019s what I gotta do now. Have to protect my family.\u201d Adam thought as he recognized the people around them. He tried to speak, but no sound would come. His mouth hurt to open much, and he found he could form no words. He looked from the doctor to his father, and then saw Joe and Hoss standing near the door. He wanted to speak with them so badly, tell them how much he loved them. His body wouldn\u2019t respond to any movement, instead he lay paralyzed.<\/p>\n

\u201cYou\u2019re awake older brother. We thought you were going to sleep through Christmas.\u201d Joe said, a weak smile forming as he approached his brother\u2019s bedside.<\/p>\n

\u201cYeah, and that\u2019s six months off. Are you in pain?\u201d Hoss asked his smile turning to a frown in seconds.<\/p>\n

Adam again tried to respond but to no avail. Frustration got the better of him, and he felt a hot tear roll down his freshly shaven cheek.<\/p>\n

\u201cIt\u2019s okay son, we\u2019re gonna take good care of you. You\u2019ll be feeling better in no time.\u201d Ben said tears of his own now falling as he brushed away Adam\u2019s.<\/p>\n

Adam closed his eyes against his father\u2019s pain. That is exactly what he did not want to happen. He didn\u2019t want his family to suffer. He felt himself drifting off, back to the nothingness that consumed most of his days. He fought against it, wanting to stay with his family a while longer. Bright colors flashed behind his eyelids, playing out different scenes in front of him. He watched the colors swirl and dance, losing the battle as he slipped back into unconsciousness.<\/p>\n

\u201cDadburnit Pa. We need to find whoever did this to Adam. I want to see that man die, and I want to be the one to kill \u2018em.\u201d Hoss fumed as they left the room, leaving Adam to his own reprieve.<\/p>\n

\u201cWe don\u2019t know who it was Hoss. Besides, I don\u2019t want you boys going off half cocked and doing something we\u2019ll all regret. I can\u2019t lose another son, do you understand that.\u201d Ben paced, he was just as angry as the rest of them. He had seen nothing but fear and anguish in those deep brown eyes full of pain. He wanted them to pay as well, but he wanted the law to handle it. He feared what would happen if another son was caught up in the mix of these ruthless men.<\/p>\n

\u201cWell, it\u2019s working. We\u2019re getting more broth into him. His color seems to be improving, but he\u2019s still not saying anything. I think he recognizes us, but he seems unaware of his own body. We are never successful with the chamber pot, and he doesn\u2019t make a move to try and feed himself. What do you make of it doctor? Is he paralyzed?\u201d Ben was pacing as he looked to the doctor for answers.<\/p>\n

A scream shook the rafters upstairs. It was a scream like they had never heard, almost animalistic. The group made their way towards the stairs, Ben leading the pack. He stopped in fear as he saw no sign of Adam. Looking around the room, his eyes rested on his battered body in the corner of the room. Blankets entangled him, and he sat with his knees pulled to him, back against the wall. His hands clasped in front of him, as if bound by some unseen force. His breathing was rapid, though he was quiet now. His body could be seen shaking from the doorway. Walking slowly towards his son, he knelt down in front of him. Reaching out to touch him, he quickly pulled his hand back as Adam screamed again.<\/p>\n

\u201cIt\u2019s me Adam, it\u2019s Pa. Please son, look at me. I\u2019m not going to hurt you.\u201d Ben soothed waiting for any sort of recognition from his son.<\/p>\n

Adam began rocking back and forth, the doctor feared what this was doing to his broken ribs.<\/p>\n

\u201cWe have to get him back into bed Ben.\u201d He said quietly, not wanting to upset Adam further.<\/p>\n

\u201cI know that doctor. I just need a moment with my son. Now Adam, you need to get back in bed. Look, you\u2019re bleeding again. Please son, let me help you up.\u201d
\nHe reached forward slowly, stopping when Adam showed signs of panic. He waited for the fear to pass before he inched forward again.<\/p>\n

\u201cCome son, let me help you back to bed. I have to lift you up now. It\u2019s okay. I won\u2019t hurt you.\u201d Ben once again soothed as he was able to slip his arm under Adam\u2019s shoulder to lift him.<\/p>\n

He felt Adam\u2019s head come to rest on his shoulder as he put his other arm under his legs. He lifted Adam carefully, feeling the hot liquid of Adam\u2019s tears soaking through his shirt. He lay him back on the bed, trying his best to keep any pressure off his ribs, then covered him again with the blanket.<\/p>\n

\u201cEverything\u2019s alright now son. You\u2019re home and you\u2019re safe. No one will hurt you again.<\/p>\n

\u201cPa, his hands.\u201d Hoss said quietly as Adam\u2019s hands remained together, fighting against their invisible bonds.<\/p>\n

Placing his hands carefully over Adam\u2019s, Ben slowly began to move them apart. Adam watched him closely, fear registering in his eyes, then turning to shock as his hands were freed from their prison. He looked up at his father trying to express his thanks. His fingers on his left hand twitched as he tried to order them to grasp his father\u2019s hand. Seeing the slight twitch, Ben grabbed his son\u2019s hand, squeezing it softly to relay his understanding.<\/p>\n

Joe left the room, unable to watch the scene unfolding in front of him. This was his older brother, the man who was never afraid of anything. Who\u2019s motto was the only way to hurt me is to kill me. Well, he wasn\u2019t dead. But he was hurt. Joe tried to stop the tears from falling, he was ashamed that he felt angry with Adam for putting them through this. At least they knew he wasn\u2019t paralyzed. He made it to his own room, then threw himself down, letting loose the torrent of tears that had threatened to overflow each time he thought of his brother.<\/p>\n

Chapter 5<\/p>\n

It had been weeks now. Adam still had a few visible bruises, but the swelling in his eyes was now completely gone. He was able to chew soft food, and though he didn\u2019t eat much, his skin was taking on a more natural hue. He still couldn\u2019t speak, though he wasn\u2019t sure why, but he was able to use his left hand now to try and communicate. Joe had ordered a few sign language books, and each evening he and Adam would practice signing, it was often difficult since Adam only had use of one hand, but they managed enough for Adam to get his basic needs across. He had regained most of his muscle control, though during his night terrors he found himself being changed along with the bed sheets. His family had begun taking turns keeping watch over him day and night, trying to quell the night terrors before they consumed him. The entire family was effected by the lack of sleep, as more often than not Adam was racked with images of his tortures experience.<\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019ll look in on him Pa. He shouldn\u2019t be asleep now, he just woke up not more then fifteen minutes ago. I came down to get him some tea.\u201d Joe said as his father walked in to the kitchen, a stern look on his face.<\/p>\n

\u201cYou could have called us to get it for you, Hop Sing could have brought it up to you. I don\u2019t want your brother left alone, you know what happens when\u2026\u2026\u2026\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cI know Pa!\u201d Joe snapped back interrupting his father. \u201cI needed a break, I\u2019m sorry. It\u2019s hard to sit in that room all day and watch him stare at the ceiling for hours on end. I can\u2019t stand it Pa, when is he going to come back to us? When is Adam going to be Adam again!\u201d His voice ended in a sob, the lack of sleep had made them all overly emotional.<\/p>\n

\u201cI know it\u2019s hard son, but we can\u2019t rush him. He\u2019s been through hell and back, it\u2019s going to take time\u2026\u2026\u2026\u2026..\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cForget it Pa. Just forget it. If you need me I\u2019ll be in Adam\u2019s room.\u201d Joe said stomping off towards the stairs.<\/p>\n

Hearing the door open and close, Adam turned his head toward the sound. Signing with his left hand he motioned to Joe that he was thirsty. Joe handed him the cup, misery still present on his face. Adam took the cup, and swallowed the mixture quickly. He signed for water, which he always demanded be present in his room. Joe refilled his cup, and once again watched his brother drain the grass. Joe sat down in the chair near the window, and dropped his head into his hands.
\nAdam tried to speak, seeing his brother was fighting tears, he wanted to comfort him. No matter how hard he tried, he could not form any words. Instead, he slowly sat up, placing two feet on the floor. Taking it slow, and making sure he was balanced, he took a shaky step towards his brother. By the time he reached the window, his legs were shaking with strain.<\/p>\n

Joe felt a hand on his back, and looked up quickly, seeing his brother standing in front of him. Joe stood, trying to get Adam back in the bed, he was too weak to be up yet. Instead he found himself pulled into a fierce hug, Adam\u2019s cheek resting in his hair. Joe melted into his older brother\u2019s embrace.<\/p>\n

\u201cAdam, I\u2019m so sorry.\u201d Joe cried as his brother squeezed him tighter. \u201cWe gotta get you back in bed brother. If Pa finds us like this, he\u2019ll have my hide.\u201d<\/p>\n

Adam allowed himself to be led back to bed. He signed to Joe he needed to use the chamber pot before he settled once again between the sheets. Joe turned his back as his brother took care of business, then helped him back into bed. Adam patted the spot beside him and Joe sat down. Using one hand to sign, Adam asked Joe for a book, then pointed down, which meant it was downstairs. Joe rose to get it, heading for the door.<\/p>\n

Adam tried again to speak, this time he was able to croak out a request.<\/p>\n

\u201cJoe.\u201d Adam whispered, causing Joe to stop in his tracks. \u201cThank you.\u201d<\/p>\n

Joe turned his tear filled eyes to his brother, and walked slowly back to him, placing a kiss on his cheek. Adam flinched away, then realizing what he did, saw the hurt in Joe\u2019s eyes.<\/p>\n

\u201cHe doesn\u2019t understand.\u201d Adam thought to himself as Joe made his way out of the room.<\/p>\n

\u201cWhat are we gonna do with him boss?\u201d Charlie Daniels asked as they bound Adam\u2019s hands tightly behind his back. He had ceased struggling after they took a horse whip to him, and now he watched them with dark piercing eyes.<\/p>\n

\u201cWe\u2019re gonna make him suffer, the way he made my brother suffer. That\u2019s right Cartwright, Peter Cain was my brother. You killed him, now I\u2019m gonna take up where he left off. I\u2019m going to make you wish you had never been born.\u201d<\/p>\n

Adam shifted his position, the lashes from the whipping he received were bleeding, and his skin burned against his clothing. James came towards him, grabbing his hair and pulling his head back. \u201cI think we should let Shelia have first go at him boys, what do you think?\u201d He laughed, motioning for the woman behind him to step forward. Adam looked her over keeping his expression blank.<\/p>\n

\u201cOh Jimmy, I think that\u2019s a grand idea. We\u2019re gonna have a lot of fun sweetie, just you wait and see.\u201d She said forcing her and Adam\u2019s lips to meet as James held him by the hair. Adam refused to return the kiss, and he saw anger brush the features of the woman in front of him.<\/p>\n

She was a large woman, scantily clad, it seemed she worked in a low class saloon. She was missing her front teeth, and her hair spiraled out, as if untouched for a long period of time.<\/p>\n

Adam tried to squirm away as her hands made their way south, she made sure to cause him severe pain as she spoke.<\/p>\n

\u201cI expect you to act accordingly Cartwright, or else you may not remain a man much longer.\u201d She whispered increasing her hold. Once again her lips met his, and through his pain, he reluctantly returned the gesture.<\/p>\n

The bed sheets were soaked in sweat and bodily fluid as Adam struggled to be let free. He was not aware that it was his father holding him down. He tried in vain to get away from his captors before they hurt him further.<\/p>\n

\u201cADAM!\u201d Ben yelled, gripping his son with all his might. He had already reopened his stitches several times, and Ben dreaded having to call upon Doc Martin again. \u201cWake up now son, it\u2019s only a dream. Pa\u2019s right here. Open your eye\u2019s Adam, look at me.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cHold still Cartwright, we\u2019re not finished with you yet!\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cHOSS! I can\u2019t hold him down much longer. I need your help!\u201d Ben cried as Adam struggled.<\/p>\n

\u201cIsn\u2019t this game fun. Okay boys, it\u2019s rigged up. Hold him steady until I explain the rules. You see this string Cartwright? It\u2019s connected to the trigger on this here rifle. The rifle is aimed at the drifter\u2019s heart, you struggle against it and pull too hard what do you think\u2019ll happen?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cNever mind Hoss, he\u2019s stopped struggling. Adam, wake up!\u201d<\/p>\n

It had been days since he had eaten. His stomach ached with the lack of nourishment, and now scrapes from the dinner the men had just consumed lay just out of reach. His mouth watered at the need for it, and he reached his hand out to the small pile. He could not reach the food without pulling the string, which in turn would kill the drifter the men had just picked up. Tears built up in his eyes, his conscious battling between what is right, and the need to survive.<\/p>\n

\u201cAdam, you\u2019re home son. Please, please look at me. What is he reaching for Hoss?\u201d<\/p>\n

His hand lay suspended reaching towards the food. Laughter echoed around him as tears dripped from his chin. Suddenly James leapt forward grabbing the outstretched hand and yanking it forward. There was a loud blast, Adam folded into himself, trying to protect his battered body. More laughter was heard as the drifter slumped forward, landing directly in front of him. His eyes wide open, yet empty. He had landed on top of the food that Adam so desperately needed. Using what little strength he had, Adam rolled the dead man off the scraps. Closing his eyes he reached for the blood stained pile.<\/p>\n

His eyes flickered open as bile rose into his throat. His ribs protested as he bent over to release the burning acid. He felt a hand on his shoulder and feared he was still in the wilderness. He retched several more times, fearing what was now in store for him. He had broken a rule, vomiting was not tolerated at the campsite. He tightened his body against the pain that he knew was to follow, and slowly opened his eyes to catch sight of his attacker.<\/p>\n

\u201cAdam?\u201d Ben asked helping his son lay back, wiping his mouth with a wet rag.<\/p>\n

\u201cPa?\u201d Adam blinked back as he realized he was back in his own room.<\/p>\n

\u201cYes son, it\u2019s Pa. Would you like some water?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cIt wasn\u2019t my fault Pa. I didn\u2019t move. He was dead anyway, I needed it.\u201d Adam whispered, crying as his father retrieved the pitcher. \u201cIt wasn\u2019t my fault.\u201d He repeated as he slowly rocked back and forth.<\/p>\n

\u201cHe\u2019s out of it Pa. I don\u2019t know if he\u2019ll ever be the same. And what was he talking about in there anyway. What did he mean he was dead anyway, and what did he need? How are we gonna help him Pa? How!\u201d Hoss finished his tirade in anger. He could hear his brother rocking upstairs, the bed squeaking with the movement. He paced the length of the floor, wringing his hands together as he thought of what he would do when he found the men that had done this to his brother.<\/p>\n

\u201cHoss, we\u2019re doing all we can do. If he\u2019d just talk about it, maybe it would help. He won\u2019t speak to anyone, not me, the doctor, the sheriff. I don\u2019t know what to do for him, we just have to wait. The doctor said he can get up and around in a few days, maybe that will help some.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cPA! COME QUICK, IT\u2019S ADAM!\u201d Joe yelled from his post upstairs. It was his turn to watch over his brother.<\/p>\n

\u201cWhat is it Joseph?\u201d Ben asked running for the stairs.<\/p>\n

\u201cI tried to stop him, I couldn\u2019t. He knocked me out of the way. Hoss, we need you!\u201d<\/p>\n

The room was in shambles. Drawers were thrown out of the dresser, clothes littered the floor. Books were strung around the room, his oil lamps lay busted, glass everywhere. Adam had overturned the bed as his father ran into the room, and now he held his captains chair in front of him. As Hoss approached his brother quietly, the chair flew into the window, shattering the glass.<\/p>\n

\u201cLEAVE ME ALONE! DON\u2019T TOUCH ME!\u201d Adam yelled, backing himself into a corner, as Hoss approached him.<\/p>\n

\u201cYOU\u2019LL NEVER GET AWAY WITH THIS CAIN! YOU\u2019LL PAY FOR WHAT YOU\u2019VE DONE TO ME!\u201d<\/p>\n

Hoss watched his brother fall into the corner and curl himself into a protective ball. He was silent now, and Hoss quickened his approach. He bent to pick up his brother, and felt his body go rigid. He cradled him carefully, and headed out of the room.<\/p>\n

\u201cWhere are you going? He shouldn\u2019t be out of bed yet!\u201d Ben chided, following closely behind his two oldest sons.<\/p>\n

\u201cHe was already out of bed Pa. He don\u2019t want to be in that room no more. I\u2019m taking him downstairs.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cHoss, no. He needs to be in bed, take him to my room.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cNo Pa, he needs to be out. No wonder he\u2019s half out of his mind, he hasn\u2019t been out of bed in a month.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cHoss!\u201d<\/p>\n

Ignoring his father\u2019s demands, he took each step carefully. Adam remained silent, even as he was lain on the settee.<\/p>\n

\u201cHe wasn\u2019t sleeping Pa. He was staring at the ceiling, the next thing I knew he was throwing things around.\u201d Joe said as he watched Hoss stretch a blanket over his brother.<\/p>\n

\u201cHoss?\u201d Adam asked as his eyes focused on his brother.<\/p>\n

\u201cIt\u2019s me Adam. You\u2019re downstairs now. I\u2019m gonna get you something to drink.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cDon\u2019t\u2026\u2026\u2026.I can\u2019t\u2026\u2026\u2026Hoss?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cOkay, it\u2019s okay. I\u2019ll stay right here. Hop Sing will get you some tea.\u201d Hoss sat down seeing the panic in his brother\u2019s eyes.<\/p>\n

\u201cI fought him Hoss. I swear, I fought him. He was just too strong, there were too many of them. I couldn\u2019t keep \u2019em off me.\u201d Adam held his stare, the brother\u2019s eyes connecting.<\/p>\n

\u201cWhat he do to you brother. Who?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cCain, he\u2026\u2026\u2026\u2026I can\u2019t\u2026\u2026\u2026\u2026..Why would he do it?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cCain? Adam, Cain\u2019s dead.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cCain.\u201d Was Adam\u2019s last reply as his gaze once again directed towards the ceiling.<\/p>\n

\u201cHe\u2019s getting worse doctor. He\u2019s becoming more and more violent, you should see what he did to his room. He ripped the pictures off the wall, tipped over his dresser, it was full of clothes, this is happening a few times a week now. I\u2019m worried that we can\u2019t control him much longer. If Hoss wasn\u2019t here\u2026\u2026\u2026\u2026.I\u2019d hate to think\u2026\u2026\u2026\u201d Ben couldn\u2019t finish, his eyes filled with pain as he looked to his friend for help.<\/p>\n

\u201cBen, there are places where Adam could be\u2026\u2026\u2026\u2026.well, it would be an asylum. I wouldn\u2019t do that to my worst enemy. There has got to be something we haven\u2019t tried. Some way to help him.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cNo, I will not put my son in an asylum. But, what else is there to do? I\u2019m worried he may seriously hurt someone, maybe even kill them. He\u2019s not even dreaming when he goes into these rages, he just snaps without warning.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cIt\u2019s only been three months now. Let\u2019s give him a little more time. I brought some medicine, you can inject it into him during his rages, it will knock him out. Take him outside a few times a day, make sure he get\u2019s some exercise, but don\u2019t overdue it.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cThank you doctor. We\u2019ll figure something out.\u201d<\/p>\n

Adam watched his father speaking with the doctor from the window in his bedroom. He saw the doctor mount his horse, and turn it slowly towards the road. He headed towards the stairs, needing to speak to his father. He knew he was getting worse, but he couldn\u2019t seem to stop it. He thought of his friend Ross, and how his life ended, worried that that fate was now his own. He walked slowly up behind his father, and placed one hand on his back. He hadn\u2019t initiated physical contact with anyone for months now, and this gesture now seemed alien to him.<\/p>\n

Ben jumped, startled at being touched from behind. He knew Hoss and Joe were on the range, and Hop Sing was in town getting supplies. He turned quickly and met the dark eyes of his son. They had lost their golden hue, when he was taken from the ranch, he realized how much he missed seeing the sparkle in those eyes.<\/p>\n

\u201cAdam, how\u2019d you get out here? You should be resting.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019m sorry Pa.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cSorry for what son?\u201d<\/p>\n

Adam kicked his foot into the ground causing a dust cloud to rise up around his boot. He dropped his eyes, and his chin began to quiver. He couldn\u2019t face his father, not after what happened to him.<\/p>\n

\u201cMaybe I should go away awhile.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cGo away? Where would you go. You\u2019re not nearly strong enough to be out on your own!\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cYou don\u2019t understand Pa! It\u2019s still a game, I\u2019m losing. You weren\u2019t there, you don\u2019t know what they did to me.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cYou\u2019re right, I wasn\u2019t there. I think about that every time I look in your eyes. I would have traded places with you if the Lord had deemed it possible.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cNO!\u201d Adam yelled back, his face contorting with anger. \u2018YOU WOULDN\u2019T HAVE TRADED PLACES WITH ME! NO MAN WOULD CHOOSE TO GO THROUGH THAT\u2026\u2026\u2026..THAT\u2026\u2026\u2026THEY HURT ME PA! IN EVERY WAY POSSIBLE, THEY HURT ME! THEY STOLE MY DIGNITY, MY MANHOOD, MY SANITY! DON\u2019T YOU SEE? Don\u2019t you see what they\u2019ve done to me?\u201d Adam finished in a whisper.<\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019m sorry Adam, I\u2019m so sorry.\u201d Ben cried as he pulled his son to him. Adam stiffened instantly as he always did when touched.<\/p>\n

\u201cDON\u2019T TOUCH ME!\u201d Adam yelled pulling back from his embrace as memories flooded into his mind. He felt their hands all over him, doing unspeakable things, his body shuttered as he felt rage begin to build inside him. \u201cI\u2019LL KILL YOU FOR THAT! DON\u2019T YOU EVER TOUCH ME AGAIN!\u201d<\/p>\n

Ben released his hold instantly and stepped back. He saw a few of the ranch hands step out of the bunk house, and he prayed Adam would get control of himself.<\/p>\n

\u201cEverything alright Boss?\u201d Charlie asked. He had been a ranch hand for years, he had been there when Adam had left for college.<\/p>\n

\u201cI don\u2019t know yet Charlie. Just keep back.\u201d Ben said quietly, never taking his eyes of his son who was visible shaking.<\/p>\n

\u201cAdam, why don\u2019t you go back in the house. I\u2019ll come in soon, maybe we can play a game of checkers.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cIs everything alright Boss? Want me to tie him back up?\u201d Carter asked as Cain finished another torturous game, throwing the stick to the side.<\/p>\n

\u201cNo, let him be. He thinks he can escape, give him the opportunity. You hear that Cartwright, this is your chance. You\u2019re free to make a run for it.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cWater. Please, I need water.\u201d Adam said, rolling onto his side.<\/p>\n

\u201cThere\u2019s a creek about a mile that way. Give it your best shot Cartwright.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cPlease.\u201d<\/p>\n

He pulled himself along the ground, in the direction of the creek.<\/p>\n

\u201cOn second thought, maybe it\u2019s the other way. Well, good luck, you\u2019re gonna need it.\u201d<\/p>\n

Laughter ensued as Adam struggled forward. His body screamed in protest, but he needed water.<\/p>\n

\u201cHey Cartwright, you\u2019re so thirsty, why don\u2019t you drink this!\u201d Carter laughed as the men stood in a circle, covering their capture in urine.<\/p>\n

Coming out of the memory Adam dropped to his knees. He covered his face with his hands, praying to be released from the hell in his own mind.<\/p>\n

\u201cPlease, just leave me alone Pa. I just want to be alone.\u201d Adam said through muffled words.<\/p>\n

\u201cOkay, you just come in when you\u2019re ready.\u201d Ben motioned Charlie and the onlookers to get busy as he walked slowly in the house.<\/p>\n

Chapter 6<\/p>\n

\u201cMorning Adam.\u201d Joe greeted as his brother made his way to the table. \u201cSleep well?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cAlright I guess. Must have made it through the night without much fuss. I didn\u2019t have any of you three in my room.\u201d
\n\u201cNope, didn\u2019t hear a sound older brother. That\u2019s the first good night\u2019s sleep you\u2019ve had in six months.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cSure is. I was actually thinking of going to town today, maybe getting the mail.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cAre you sure you\u2019re ready for that Adam. I mean, why don\u2019t you take Hoss with you. You two haven\u2019t been able to spend much time together.\u201d Ben said hoping his son would heed his advice. He hadn\u2019t expressed interest in going to town since he\u2019d been back home. He had however shown much improvement on controlling his emotions as of late, and the nightmares were starting to fade.<\/p>\n

\u201cWhat do you say Hoss?\u201d Adam questioned looking at his bigger little brother.<\/p>\n

\u201cThat\u2019d be just fine. Sides, I wanted to talk to Hank about that stallion he bought.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cGood, we\u2019ll leave after I finish some chores.\u201d Adam said taking a bite of his breakfast.<\/p>\n

\u201cAdam, your fork.\u201d Ben said seeing his son pick up the eggs with his fingers.<\/p>\n

Adam looked down, seeing his fork laying untouched by his plate. He was still working on overcoming some of these quirks, and knew his family didn\u2019t hold it against him. He sometimes needed to be reminded to eat with a fork, instead of his hands, as he had become so accustomed to.<\/p>\n

\u201cSorry Pa.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cNot a problem. When you pick up the mail, could you deliver this letter for me?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cSure. Hoss, you\u2019ll help me remember?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cCourse I will older brother. Hey, what chores were you planning on doing this morning?\u201d Hoss asked, just now realizing his brother\u2019s earlier statement.<\/p>\n

\u201cThought I\u2019d chop some wood, muck out the stalls. Unless you think I am incapable brother.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cI didn\u2019t say that, it\u2019s just that\u2026\u2026\u2026well\u2026\u2026\u2026I don\u2019t want anything to happen.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cNothing will happen. I haven\u2019t had an episode all week. I know I scared you last time, but I really want to try and get through this. I can\u2019t just sit around here all the time while you three work yourselves to death.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cI want you to stop immediately if you feel any anxiety Adam. You could have really injured yourself last time.\u201d Ben said remembering how Adam had dropped the axe, just missing his foot.<\/p>\n

\u201cSure Pa. Is there anymore water?\u201d He asked staring hard at the empty pitcher.<\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019ll fetch us some older brother.\u201d Hoss said seeing his brother struggle to maintain his composure.<\/p>\n

Ben watched in silence as Adam\u2019s features began to cloud over. The main thing that would set him off would be the lack of water. He always had a cup or canteen with him wherever he went. Ben knew it was because he was often denied the basic needs of food and water, and his instincts now told him it was a precious commodity, never to be without.<\/p>\n

\u201cHere you go. Fresh pitcher. So, you say your about ready to get started?\u201d Hoss said pouring his brother a full cup.<\/p>\n

Adam drained the glass, then filled it again. He carried it with him from the table, his food only half eaten. He had the habit of making Hop Sing keep the rest stored for him, he always felt if he didn\u2019t save some now, there would be none later.<\/p>\n

\u201cLet\u2019s go.\u201d Adam said as he headed out the door, grabbing his hat from the desk.<\/p>\n

\u201cSee, I made it through the whole pile.\u201d Adam said as his father came to stand beside him.<\/p>\n

\u201cYou sure did, that\u2019s a lot of wood son.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cYeah. He smiled, pleased with himself for finally completing a task. Where\u2019s Joe?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cHe went to Placerville remember? He won\u2019t be back until the day after tomorrow.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cRight. You think he\u2019ll get a good price for that stock?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cI think he\u2019ll do just fine.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cWell, I\u2019m gonna get washed up, head to town.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cYou sure you want to do this today?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019m sure Pa. Why don\u2019t you come along, maybe then you won\u2019t worry so much.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cI think I\u2019ll do that. Things can take care of themselves here for a day. How about we stop and eat at the International House this evening?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cAlright, I\u2019ll tell Hop Sing.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cHow\u2019s he doing Pa?\u201d Hoss asked seeing the wood in a freshly laid pile.<\/p>\n

\u201cSeems fine. I think he is doing better today Hoss, I really do.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cThink he\u2019s up for a trip to town?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cAbout that. I\u2019m gonna join you, thought maybe we would stay in town for dinner. First sign of trouble though, we head out.\u201d<\/p>\n

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

\u201cHello Mr. Kent, nice to see you again.\u201d Joe said entering the saloon to clear his throat of the dust that had accumulated there.<\/p>\n

\u201cHi there Little Joe, what brings you to town?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cCame to sell some stock. Thought I\u2019d have a drink before I started back home.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cI see. What\u2019ll it be then?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cMake it a beer.\u201d Joe looked around, he hadn\u2019t been to Placerville for over a year.
\nHis oldest brother usually made the trip. His eyes searched the room, stopping on a tall man with piercing blue eyes. He was standing with a group of people, three men and a rather large female. They were laughing amongst each other. Joe felt his heart rate increase, and his hands began to shake.<\/p>\n

\u201cJoe, here\u2019s your beer. How\u2018s that brother of your\u2018s doing? I heard he was kidnapped.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cThat man, what\u2019s his name?\u201d Joe asked, his eyes never leaving the group.<\/p>\n

\u201cCain, James I think. He came into town a little over six months ago. Those five come in here every night. Why, is there something wrong?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cThat\u2019s the man that kidnapped my brother.\u201d Joe whispered quietly, planning his next move.<\/p>\n

The bartender looked over the crowd. The place was rather busy tonight, which would serve as good cover.<\/p>\n

\u201cGo fetch the sheriff Joe. Use the back door.\u201d<\/p>\n

Joe moved quickly, without a word, disappearing through the backdoor. He rushed towards the sheriff\u2019s office, hoping he was in.<\/p>\n

\u201cSheriff!\u201d He called as he hurried into the building.<\/p>\n

\u201cIn here. What is it?\u201d Sheriff Montgomery stood shuffling papers on his desk.<\/p>\n

\u201cI need you to come to the saloon. I\u2019ve found the men that kidnapped my brother!\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cWell Adam Cartwright, it\u2019s good to see you again.\u201d Carol said as she sauntered up to the table.<\/p>\n

\u201cYou too Carol.\u201d Adam said averting his eyes.<\/p>\n

\u201cI was wondering when you would come in to town. Hear tell it\u2019s been six months since you\u2019ve been home.\u201d She said running her hand up and down his arm. \u201cMy are you tense, why don\u2019t you come up to my room later for a massage?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cUh Carol, I think that man is calling for you.\u201d Hoss interrupted as he saw his brother\u2019s hands begin to shake.<\/p>\n

\u201cWell, duty calls. See me later, understand!\u201d She whispered in his ear, lightly touching his earlobe with her tongue.<\/p>\n

\u201cLet\u2019s just head to the International House, we can get a drink there.\u201d Hoss said grabbing his brother\u2019s arm and lifting him carefully out of the chair.<\/p>\n

He led him out of the saloon, and over to the restaurant, keeping a tight hold on his older brother.<\/p>\n

\u201cSee here, Pa\u2019s already waiting on us. Must of finished those errands early.\u201d<\/p>\n

Adam remained stiff and silent as they approached the table. Ben recognized the look of rage and terror crossing his son\u2019s features.<\/p>\n

\u201cWhat happened Hoss?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cNuthin Pa, just a little encounter with Carol. Let\u2019s just sit down and order. Sir, can we get some water?\u201d Hoss motioned to the waiter standing near by.<\/p>\n

\u201cAdam, did you get the mail?\u201d Ben asked hoping to bring his son back into this world.<\/p>\n

\u201cMail?\u201d Adam answered robotically. The waiter arrived with the pitcher and Adam pulled it over to him. He poured himself a glass, and took a sip. His body began to relax as the fear began to leave his body.<\/p>\n

\u201cYeah Pa, we got it. It\u2019s in his saddle bags.\u201d Hoss said watching his brother begin to relax.<\/p>\n

\u201cGood, anything interesting?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cI didn\u2019t look. Just put it in the bag.\u201d Adam said finally meeting his father\u2019s eyes.<\/p>\n

Ben ordered their meals, as Adam finished off the pitcher of water. The waiter brought another, giving Adam a weary glance.<\/p>\n

\u201cJoe should be on his way home now. I wonder how he made out with the stock.\u201d Ben said trying to make conversation.<\/p>\n

The food arrived, giving them something else to focus on.<\/p>\n

\u201cWell Ben Cartwright, I haven\u2019t seen you around in a while.\u201d Sheriff Coffee said approaching the table with a smile.<\/p>\n

\u201cRoy, it\u2019s good to see you. How are things?\u201d Ben asked, pausing from his meal.<\/p>\n

\u201cFine, just fine. Little Joe stopped in just before he left, he said things were going well on the ranch.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cYes, we had a good run of luck lately. It seems we may\u2026\u2026\u2026..\u201d Ben stopped, seeing his friends face fill with confusion. Looking towards where his eyes were directed, he noticed Adam eating his steak with his hands. He was eating quickly, then scooping potato\u2019s into his full mouth, as if his plate could disappear.<\/p>\n

\u201cAdam.\u201d Ben said quietly, seeing other\u2019s beginning to stare. \u201cYour fork son.\u201d<\/p>\n

Adam stopped eating instantly as he felt Hoss touch his left arm. He felt eyes on him as he wiped his hands on his napkin. His face reddened, and he stared hard at the remaining food on his plate.<\/p>\n

\u201cSorry Pa.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cWell, it was nice to see you Ben. I have to get going. I\u2019m supposed to be receiving a telegram from Placerville, it sounded important. Excuse me.\u201d<\/p>\n

Pushing his plate away, Adam downed another glass of water, then refilled his cup.<\/p>\n

\u201cHow\u2019s that brother of yours Cartwright?\u201d James Cain laughed as he sat in a jail cell.<\/p>\n

\u201cDon\u2019t you say a word about my brother. I should kill you where you stand.\u201d<\/p>\n

The group now laughed as Joe was held back by the sheriff.<\/p>\n

\u201cNow Joe, I can\u2019t have that kind of talk in here. If you can\u2019t control yourself, then you need to wait outside. I\u2019ll be through with the questioning soon enough.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cYou\u2019ll hang for what you\u2019ve done!\u201d Joe yelled as he was escorted from the building.<\/p>\n

Chapter 7<\/p>\n

The men arrived back to the ranch, it had been a quiet ride. Adam grabbed the mail and quickly headed into the house. He could feel himself start to slip away as he dismounted from his horse. His breathing became shallow, and he was sweating profusely.<\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019ll take care of your horse Adam, go on inside. You don\u2019t look so good.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cThank you.\u201d He said as he stumbled towards the house. Making it inside he lay the mail on his father\u2019s desk and collapsed onto the settee. He lay on his back, staring at the ceiling as he fought against the painful hallucinations that were trying to consume him. Glancing towards the hearth his eyes caught the shiny epee\u2019s that hung there. Forcing his memories to the time the epee\u2019s arrived he fought of the impending panic attack.<\/p>\n

\u201cAdam, could you help me hang these?\u201d Marie asked, dragging his favorite blue chair towards the fire place.<\/p>\n

\u201cWhat are they?\u201d He asked, taking one of the sword\u2019s from her.<\/p>\n

\u201cIt\u2019s called an epee, they are commonly used in sword fighting, you know, duels and such.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cWow, can I try one?\u201d<\/p>\n

She paused, looking over the skinny boy with raven hair. He was fourteen now, all arms and legs. He gave her his dimpled smile, and she couldn\u2019t resist. It wasn\u2019t often he asked to try anything of her\u2019s, other than her guitar.<\/p>\n

\u201cJust be careful. Make sure you keep it pointed away from you.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cLook at this, do I look like a real sword fighter?\u201d He laughed as he pivoted forward on his right foot.<\/p>\n

\u201cYou would make a wonderful swords men Adam. Now let\u2019s get these hung and out of your brother\u2019s reach.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cYes ma\u2019am. Could we practice sometimes? I mean when Joe\u2019s asleep?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cWe\u2019ll see. I don\u2019t know how your father will feel about your learning to fence.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cYou have a letter here Adam, from New York.\u201d Ben said breaking Adam\u2019s trance.<\/p>\n

\u201cFrom New York?\u201d He said taking the letter from his father and giving one last glance to the epee\u2019s. \u201cWhat could this be about?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cWell, open it and see.\u201d Ben laughed as his son tore into the letter.<\/p>\n

\u201cIt\u2019s from Judy. She and Jimmy are having a baby, they want me to visit.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cTo visit them in New York!\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cI know it\u2019s a long way, but it would be nice to see them again. It\u2019s been six years now Pa.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cBut you can\u2019t seriously consider going all the way to New York. Not now, not yet.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019m not planning to leave tomorrow or anything, but I won\u2019t just disregard the idea.\u201d Adam said gruffly. He hated that he knew he would never make it that far alone, he barely made it to Virginia City and back without having an attack.<\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019m not saying you should disregard the idea, I just don\u2019t think now is the right time. They\u2019ll understand, just write them and explain that you simply can\u2019t make it any time soon.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cI can\u2019t believe they\u2019re having a baby. I wonder how they\u2019re getting along?\u201d Adam thought dreamily, turning once again to stare at the epee\u2019s above the fireplace.<\/p>\n

\u201cC\u2019mon Adam, they\u2019ll never even know. I\u2019ve always wanted to hold one.\u201d Judy said pushing the chair under the epee\u2019s on the wall.<\/p>\n

\u201cIt\u2019s not your hide on the line. If Pa finds out, he\u2019ll tan me good. Let\u2019s just pretend, we can use sticks like always.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cLook, they come off so easy. Here, take this one.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cJudy, hang it back up. Pa won\u2019t even let Marie give me lessons, he\u2019s gonna kill me!\u201d Adam said holding the epee as Judy jumped from the chair with an epee of her own.<\/p>\n

\u201cUnguard sir knight. Prepare for battle!\u201d Judy lunged forward, Adam blocked, more from instinct than wanting to play. \u201cYou handle a sword nicely, soon you may be king.\u201d She laughed as the battle continued.<\/p>\n

Soon Adam was laughing along with her, as they battled around the great room. The battle finished, Adam played out the death scene, falling to the floor and pretending to writhe in pain.<\/p>\n

\u201cEt tu Judy, then fall Adam!\u201d He said as he rolled his head to the side, tongue protruding from his mouth.<\/p>\n

She took the sword from him, and hung them carefully in their rightful position.
\n\u201cSee, didn\u2019t I tell you no one would ever find out!\u201d She smiled as she lay down beside him on the floor.<\/p>\n

\u201cYou better hope not.\u201d He said standing as he heard footsteps approaching the porch.<\/p>\n

\u201cYou know, Judy and I had several sword fights through the years.\u201d Adam said looking over to his father who was sitting in his red leather chair near the fire.<\/p>\n

\u201cHoss caught us once. I told him if you found out I would tell you about the time he dressed Little Joe in ma\u2019s undergarments.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cWhat do you mean you had sword fights. And Hoss did what to Joe!\u201d Ben bellowed, holding his pipe out in front of him.<\/p>\n

Adam laughed hard, letting the laughter rise up from his belly. Tears came to his eyes as he gripped his sides.<\/p>\n

\u201cWhat\u2019s so funny?\u201d Hoss asked entering the great room and staring at the angry eyes of his father, and his brother who was doubled over in laughter.<\/p>\n

\u201cYour older and supposedly mature older brother just informed me that you walked in on he and Judy in the middle of a sword fight, and that you dressed your little brother up in his mother\u2019s under garments.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cADAM! YOU SAID WE\u2019D NEVER TELL ABOUT THAT!\u201d Hoss hollered, his face turning red from embarrassment.<\/p>\n

Adam only laughed harder, wiping his eyes and stomping his foot on the floor.
\nBen and Hoss exchanged smiles, this was the first time Adam had laughed since he had been home. They tried to hold their angry stare, but soon were consumed in laughter.<\/p>\n

Hop Sing stood in the kitchen watching the scene unfold in front of him. He himself knew of the many battles had in the great room. Joe and Hoss had often fenced while Ben was out of the house. His eyes filled with tears as the laughter once again echoed throughout the house. He knew that now the real healing would begin.<\/p>\n

Chapter 8<\/p>\n

\u201cWell, he\u2019s denying any involvement in the kidnapping. Ain\u2019t nothing to do but have it go to trial.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cWHAT! YOU HEARD HIM! He was mocking me. \u2018How\u2019s your brother Cartwright?\u2019 You don\u2019t call that a confession of sorts!\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cNow Joe, you know darn well everyone within 5000 miles heard of your brother\u2019s kidnapping. Him asking about it is not substantial evidence.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cIt\u2019s him, I know it\u2019s him. He tied me up, my father and brother were unconscious on the floor, he was standing over them. IT WAS HIM!\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cWell, it\u2019s his word against yours. You being the only witness, that is not enough for me to hang the man. I will keep him locked up, but it will have to go to trial.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cWhat about Adam?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cWhat do you mean what about Adam?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cHe\u2019s a witness, he\u2019s a victim.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cHe\u2019ll be called to testify. I\u2019m doing everything I can, I\u2019ve sent a wire to Virginia City. I\u2019m asking Adam come out here to testify. It\u2019s too risky to try and shuttle the group back there.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cAdam come here? I don\u2019t know if that\u2019s possible. He hasn\u2019t even been to Virginia City!\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cWell, if he testifies, Cain and his crew are sure to hang. Otherwise, with one witness testimony, it could end up a hung jury.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cPa, you remember that time Adam tried to make a cake for your birthday? He had Hop Sing\u2019s kitchen such a mess, Hop Sing had his bags packed. We had to promise never to set foot in his kitchen again.\u201d Hoss laughed as they sat reminiscing. It was so good to hear Adam laughing again, they had not wanted the night to end.<\/p>\n

\u201cI worked hard on that dang cake. How was I supposed to know not to cook over the fire, that\u2019s how we cooked everything on the trail!\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cThat\u2019s right. You were so excited to show me my present. When I walked towards that fire, I could smell the eggs cooking. You must have used two dozen!\u201d<\/p>\n

Laughter continued as Ben got up to answer the door. He wondered who would be visiting at this hour.<\/p>\n

\u201cHi Ben, sorry to come out here so late.\u201d Roy Coffee said as he walked in out of the rain.<\/p>\n

\u201cWhat brings you out here? Didn\u2019t we just see you in town?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cSure did, it\u2019s about that wire I was supposed to receive.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cWell come in, take off your coat. When did it start raining?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cOh just about an hour ago, you know how them storm\u2019s just come up.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cPlease sit down.\u201d<\/p>\n

Roy sat in Adam\u2019s blue chair. The two brother\u2019s were laughing, Hoss on the floor in front of the settee, Adam stretched out above him.<\/p>\n

\u201cLooks like I walked in to a good time.\u201d Roy said as he listened to the banter surrounding him.<\/p>\n

\u201cI was just reminding Hoss of the time he and Joe tried to dig their way to China. They said it would be easier for Hop Sing to travel back and forth since he always wanted to go there.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cYeah, well you could of stopped us you know. We dug that hole for three days straight, \u2018fore Pa caught us.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cCaught you! I fell in that darn hole and twisted my ankle.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cThose boys sure did get into a heap of trouble didn\u2019t they.\u201d Roy laughed, trying to figure out how to pass his bad news lightly.<\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019m sorry Roy, you had something you wanted to speak with us about?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cYes Ben, I don\u2019t rightly know how to tell you. It\u2019s good news and bad news in a way.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cWell out with it Roy. You didn\u2019t come all the way out here in the rain to stall did you?\u201d<\/p>\n

Adam stared silently at him from the settee. His eyes full of laughter only minutes ago now shown dark as he waited for the news.<\/p>\n

\u201cIt was a wire from Placerville. It seems Joe found Adam\u2019s kidnappers. Their being held there, \u2018till the trial.\u201d<\/p>\n

The room went silent. Everyone looked to Adam who had gone pale. Sweat had formed on his brow, and his hands shook.<\/p>\n

\u201cWhen is the trial?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cAs soon as Adam can get there.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cADAM! WHY DO THEY NEED ADAM, THEY HAVE JOSEPH TO TESTIFY!\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cIt seems the group accused has an alibi. It\u2019s Joe\u2019s word against there\u2019s. That\u2019s not enough for a sure conviction Ben. It would be helpful if you all would testify.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cI don\u2019t know if he can make it that far Roy.\u201d Ben whispered quietly seeing Adam\u2019s gaze fixed once again on the ceiling.<\/p>\n

\u201cWell, let\u2019s hope he can. I would hate to have those five on the loose.\u201d
\nThunder echoed throughout the house as the storm intensified. The room was illuminated by lighting, as Hop Sing came in with coffee.<\/p>\n

\u201cHop Sing have room all ready. Sheriff stay here tonight. Storm too bad for travel.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cI don\u2019t want to impose.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cDon\u2019t be silly. You\u2019re not imposing. Hop Sing\u2019s right, you\u2019ll stay in the guest room.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cThank you Ben.\u201d The sheriff said as he glanced at Adam who had not moved since Cain\u2019s name was spoken.<\/p>\n

\u201cNO! GET OFF ME! PLEASE!\u201d<\/p>\n

Roy woke up with a start as screams of terror filled the house. Running towards the sound, he found himself in Adam\u2019s room. Ben was holding him down as Adam struggled hard against him.<\/p>\n

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

\u201cStay there! Hoss, get in here quick!\u201d Ben shouted as Adam gained the upper hand, knocking him to the floor.<\/p>\n

Hoss was on top of him in a minute. Holding him down by the shoulders he waited for the new storm to pass.<\/p>\n

\u201cI WON\u2019T DO IT! GO AHEAD AND KILL ME YOU BASTARD!\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cBen, how can I help?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cYou can\u2019t help Roy, just stay where you are. He\u2019ll come out of it soon.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cPLEASE DON\u2019T HURT HER, SHE\u2019S JUST A LITTLE GIRL.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cPa, he\u2019s losing steam. I think you should talk to him now.<\/p>\n

Ben knelt down in front of his son. Adam\u2019s eyes were wide open and staring, though it was not his father he saw in front of him.<\/p>\n

\u201cAdam, it\u2019s Pa. You\u2019re home now, you\u2019re safe.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cSHE\u2019S HURT! HELP HER, PLEASE HELP HER!\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cAdam, there is no girl here. You are in your room. I need you to focus son, look at me.\u201d<\/p>\n

Adam continued to struggle, though his eyes started to focus on his surroundings. Tears spilled from his eyes as he caught sight of his mother\u2019s music box.<\/p>\n

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

\u201cYes Adam, I\u2019m right here.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cShe\u2019s dead?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cWho Adam? Who\u2019s dead?\u201d Roy intervened, his instinct of being sheriff taking over.<\/p>\n

\u201cThe little girl. He killed her. PA!\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cSshhh, it\u2019s okay now Adam. You\u2019re home, you need to get back into bed.\u201d<\/p>\n

Hoss released his hold, helping his brother into a sitting position. \u201cWe need to get him cleaned up Pa. Can you see the sheriff back to his room?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cCome on Roy, we\u2019ll talk about it on the way.\u201d Ben said watching Hoss help Adam remove his nightshirt.<\/p>\n

Roy stared at the puddle on the floor. He couldn\u2019t believe this was the same Adam Cartwright he had known since he was a child.<\/p>\n

\u201cIs it like this every night?\u201d He asked trying to push the screams from his memory.<\/p>\n

\u201cIt was getting better. But now with the trial\u2026\u2026\u2026..\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019m sorry Ben, I had no idea it was this bad.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cIt\u2019s bad. It\u2019s been worse than that. No one knows what happened out there. Besides these outbursts, he hasn\u2019t spoken about it at all.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cDo you think he\u2019ll make it to the trial?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cI don\u2019t know Roy, I just don\u2019t know.\u201d<\/p>\n

Chapter 9<\/p>\n

\u201cHe can\u2019t make it Pa, you saw him last night. He hasn\u2019t said a word all day. We have to tell the sheriff he can\u2019t make it.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cWe can\u2019t leave him alone while we go, what are we going to do with him?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cHop Sing\u2019s here. Some body has to testify with Joe.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cHop Sing can\u2019t protect him when he goes into a rage.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019m going.\u201d Adam said stepping behind his father and brother, followed by Roy Coffee.<\/p>\n

\u201cAdam, I\u2026\u2026\u2026\u2026\u2026\u2026\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019m going.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cBut you\u2026\u2026\u2026\u2026\u2026\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cThat\u2019s enough Hoss. We have to leave now if we want to make it there by Friday.\u201d<\/p>\n

Adam walked out the door carrying his bedroll with him.<\/p>\n

\u201cYou put him up to this?\u201d Ben asked walking up to his old friend.<\/p>\n

\u201cNo, he came into my room and told me to get ready. He wants me to go with you to Placerville.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cThen who\u2019ll take over your duty in the city?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cClem can handle it. I told him I may end up going with you.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cSo you knew this would happen all along!\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cAfter what I saw last night Ben, I would say I know nothing.\u201d<\/p>\n

The three galloped along the trail. Adam was in the lead, and he was making good time. His heart was racing as fast as his horse, he knew they could not keep up this pace much longer. Coming up to Palmer\u2019s Creek, he pulled his horse into a canter allowing the other\u2019s to catch up.<\/p>\n

\u201cWe better let the horse\u2019s rest here. There\u2019s not another creek for ten miles. We\u2019ll need to stock up on water.\u201d He said as Hoss pulled his horse up beside him.<\/p>\n

\u201cYou in a race older brother? Seems to me you\u2019re running these horses and yourself awful hard. Those men ain\u2019t going no where. The sheriff said he would keep \u2018em locked up \u2018till the trial.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cJust want to get there that\u2019s all. The sooner we get there, the sooner this will all be over.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cDecided to camp here for the night?\u201d Ben asked as he rode up with Sheriff Coffee.<\/p>\n

\u201cThought it be nice to have water near by.\u201d Adam said drinking the last of his canteen.<\/p>\n

\u201cYou\u2019ll need to go easy on that son. There won\u2019t be any more fresh water for ten miles.\u201d<\/p>\n

Adam walked towards the creek refilling his canteen, and ignoring his father\u2019s comment. A shadow crossed his face as he stared off towards the plains to the east.<\/p>\n

\u201cThirsty yet Cartwright! You sure look thirsty to me. How long it been Jake?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cOh, I\u2019d guess it to be about five days now.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cHow long can a person go without water you think?\u201d
\n\u201cI reckon about five days.\u201d Jake laughed as Adam coughed, his throat raw from lack of water for too many days.<\/p>\n

\u201cShould we give \u2018em a drink?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cSeems fair. He\u2019s been pretty quiet these past few days.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cYou hear that Cartwright? Carter said he thinks you should have a drink.\u201d<\/p>\n

Adam\u2019s eyes closed against his tormenters. This was a game they played often. They would offer him food or water just to take it away in the next instant. He prayed this time he would get enough water to quench his never ending thirst.<\/p>\n

\u201cHere, take it slow. Don\u2019t want you to go dying on me now. We ain\u2019t through playin with you yet. Matter of fact, Cain said he thinks we could keep you alive this way for another year or so. What do you think?\u201d<\/p>\n

Adam followed instructions and drank slowly. He stored extra water in his mouth, but swallowed slowly. This was a trick he had learned. Eating or drinking too quickly could result in a beating, if they didn\u2019t see his Adam\u2019s apple rise and fall too quickly he was able to retain a little more sustenance.<\/p>\n

\u201cBring over some of that rabbit Jake, Cartwright here must be pretty hungry too. You ought to be thankful, bet you could go another four days or so without food. I thought I\u2019d cut you a break, seeing as how it\u2019s Christmas and all.\u201d<\/p>\n

He slowly ate the meat he was given. He chewed each bite carefully, knowing he would need to make it last. Christmas he thought. Was it December already? They had traveled into California, the weather had turned cool, but he was used to a white Christmas. His thoughts went to his family as he forced himself to stay conscious as he finished his small meal.<\/p>\n

\u201cI said, you think we should set up camp here?\u201d Hoss tapped his brother\u2019s shoulder as he caught him slipping away.<\/p>\n

\u201cHuh? Oh right. No, I think up on that ridge there. If it rains again, it\u2019s possible this clearing could flood.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cRight older brother. Help me unload the supplies then.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cHow is he really Ben? He seems a little out there sometimes. Is he able to help around the ranch?\u201d Roy Coffee asked as he and his friend went to gather firewood.<\/p>\n

\u201cHe\u2019s getting there. He has trouble staying focused, sometimes he looses track of what he\u2019s doing. When that happens, we usually find him off in the woods, or down by the water.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cWhat\u2019s he doing then?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cJust staring off. If you speak to him, he usually comes back around. It embarrasses him though, so I try just to let him come back unnoticed.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cI can\u2019t imagine Adam having trouble focusing on anything. He was always a stickler for getting a job done, and doing it quickly.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cYes, I think that\u2019s why he gets embarrassed. He tries to set an example and well, that\u2019s hard when he can\u2019t finish what he started.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cYou think this trial will help him find closure?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cI pray it does Roy. It keeps me awake at night.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cHe ain\u2019t gonna show Cartwright. That brother of your\u2019s is crazy as they come. It\u2019s doing no good keeping me here. No jury will convict me with just your word. Why don\u2019t you just let us on out of here Sheriff!\u201d Cain said as he stood in front of the cell bars. His posse sat behind him on the beds, they laughed with Cain as he mocked the youngest Cartwright.<\/p>\n

\u201cHe\u2019ll show, and you\u2019ll hang for what you did. What\u2019ll you do when he shows up? You\u2019ll know your life is over, how does that feel?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cI hope he does show up. I got a few things I need to tell him yet.\u201d He smiled a sinister smile, causing Little Joe to rise from his seat.<\/p>\n

\u201cSit down Joe. Matter of fact, why don\u2019t you go see where our dinner is? You need to cool off.\u201d The sheriff instructed as he grabbed Joe\u2019s shoulder keeping him from approaching the bars.<\/p>\n

\u201cYou\u2019ll never get away with it Cain. He\u2019ll show, and you\u2019ll pay!\u201d Joe shouted as he was pushed out the door.<\/p>\n

\u201cTime to bed down boys.\u201d Ben said as he positioned Adam between he and Hoss.<\/p>\n

\u201cI want to move out at dawn. Maybe we\u2019ll get there by tomorrow night, if we ride through.\u201d Adam said laying on his bedroll, facing his father.<\/p>\n

\u201cThat\u2019s a long ride. I know you\u2019re in a hurry, but there\u2019s no call to risk the horses.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cWell, let\u2019s just see how far we get, that\u2019s a fair deal ain\u2019t it?\u201d Coffee intervened as he felt tension mount between father and son.<\/p>\n

\u201cThat\u2019s fair, let\u2019s just see.\u201d Ben said smiling and rolling to face the opposite direction of his son. He knew Adam wanted to get there quickly, but he had to think of the other\u2019s on the trip. They had at least another day and a half\u2019s ride in front of them.<\/p>\n

\u201cFine.\u201d Adam said, characteristically getting the final word in.<\/p>\n

Hoss smiled as he lay next to his brother. He could hear the pout in his voice, it reminded Hoss of when they we\u2019re children and Adam didn\u2019t get his way over something. Most of the pouting started when Marie had come into the picture.<\/p>\n

\u201cHey Adam, Ma say\u2019s we\u2019re gonna have a picnic Saturday. The town\u2019s having a celebration she said. It\u2019s gonna be Indy\u2026\u2026..Ind\u2026\u2026.Indespence day!\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cIndependence Day Hoss. We\u2019ll go into town and watch the fireworks. They\u2019ll be games, and food. Don\u2019t you remember last year?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cNo, I was just a baby then. I\u2019m five now, I\u2019ll be sure to remember next year.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cI doubt it little brother. You can\u2019t even remember where you leave your boots half the time.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cI do too, I lay \u2019em right in front of the door now.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cHOSS, COME MOVE THESE BOOTS!\u201d Ben shouted as he tripped entering the house once again.<\/p>\n

\u201cSORRY PA!\u201d Hoss replied as he ran towards the door.<\/p>\n

\u201cGet up Adam, it\u2019s Indepants Day!\u201d<\/p>\n

Adam groaned and rolled over, hiding his head below the sheets.<\/p>\n

\u201cC\u2019mon. We got to load the wagon. Pa said I could help.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cIt\u2019s barely light outside, it\u2019s Saturday, we\u2019re supposed to sleep in.\u201d He grumbled keeping his eyes closed.<\/p>\n

\u201cBut it\u2019s Indepants day. There\u2019s gonna be a party!\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cIn-de-pen-dence Day Hoss. Just cause there\u2019s a party doesn\u2019t mean we have to get up so early. Go back to bed, Pa\u2019s not even up yet.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cSo, Ma is, and she\u2019s making that ginger bread you like so much. Don\u2019t know why, I like those cookies with the sugar on \u2019em the best.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cGo away!\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cAdam!\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cGo away or climb in here with me and shut up!\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cUm, you ain\u2019t supposed to say that Adam. Pa\u2019ll be mad if he hears.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cWell, he\u2019s sleeping so he ain\u2019t gonna hear. Now what\u2019s it gonna be? You getting in this bed and going back to sleep or am I gonna have to throw you out a my room!\u201d<\/p>\n

Hoss looked at the door, and back at his brother. Seeing Adam start to stand up, he jumped into the bed, snuggling under the covers.<\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019ll sleep here brother. What you reckon they\u2019re gonna have to eat at this picnic?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cOh brother!\u201d Adam said knowing he wasn\u2019t going to get any more sleep in this morning.<\/p>\n

\u201cWhat? Uh Adam? You said, \u2019Oh brother.\u2019 What is it?<\/p>\n

\u201cAdam, don\u2019t forget your coat, it looks like it might rain.\u201d Marie said as the boys bounded out to the wagon.<\/p>\n

\u201cIt\u2019s not gonna rain. It\u2019s warm enough not to need a coat anyway.\u201d Adam said arguing with his stepmother for the umpteenth time that morning.<\/p>\n

\u201cNo arguing, now go. You are not getting in this wagon without a coat.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cFine!\u201d He said jutting his lip out as he often did when he didn\u2019t get his way.<\/p>\n

\u201cLookey there Adam, they got six tables just full of food. I bet there\u2019s all kinds of cakes and pies. Can we eat first Pa? I\u2019m starving!\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cYou are not starving Hoss, I wish you wouldn\u2019t say that. Some people actually are starving you know.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cSorry Pa. Can we eat first?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cI wanna go find Ross, we\u2019re gonna play horseshoes.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cLet\u2019s eat first, then you can go find Ross.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cBut he might find another partner. Can\u2019t I eat later?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cI would like us to eat as a family Adam. You\u2019ll still have plenty of time to play with your friends.\u201d Marie answered taking Hoss\u2019s hand and heading towards the tables filled with food.<\/p>\n

\u201cI didn\u2019t ask you!\u201d Adam answered quietly shoving his hands in his pockets.<\/p>\n

\u201cWhat was that young man?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cNothing Pa. Let\u2019s eat.\u201d Adam said sticking his lip out once again.<\/p>\n

\u201cAdam, it\u2019s time to come back to the wagon. The rain\u2019s coming!\u201d Ben shouted seeing his son playing leap frog with his friends.<\/p>\n

\u201cJust a few more minutes Pa?\u201d Adam shouted as he leapt over his friend.<\/p>\n

\u201cNo, now. We need to load the wagon and get started for home.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cBut Pa!\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cIf you but Pa me one more time, your\u2019s is gonna be aching. Come over here now. You\u2019ll see your friends tomorrow at church.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cFine!\u201d He said, scowling as he left his group of friends.<\/p>\n

\u201cYou need a nap Adam?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cNo, I don\u2019t take naps. I\u2019m eleven Hoss, not five!\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cWell, Ma\u2019s gonna make you take a nap if you keep on pouting. She said when little boys can\u2019t keep their lip up, it needs a rest.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cOh, just shut up Hoss!\u201d Adam whispered poking his brother in the side.<\/p>\n

Hoss smiled as he remembered his brother being sent to bed early that night. He put up quiet a fight, which resulted in the loss of privileges. For the next week Adam was confined to the yard, not allowed to go past the barn. He remembered his mother whispering that a bird might just poop on that lip if it hung out any further.<\/p>\n

Ben woke with a start. He felt a body pushed up against him, and his body shook with the amount of force the body was trembling. Rolling over, he faced his oldest son. Adam was curled into the fetal position, his hands covering his head.<\/p>\n

\u201cAdam.\u201d He whispered carefully, not wanting to startle his son.<\/p>\n

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

\u201cYes it\u2019s me. Are you okay?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cNo.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cWhat is it? What\u2019s wrong?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019m\u2026\u2026\u2026I\u2026\u2026\u2026\u2026What if\u2026\u2026.?\u201d Adam stumbled along, unable to say what he was really feeling.<\/p>\n

Ben waited patiently, knowing Adam was scared, but would never admit to being so. He thought about Adam leaving for college. The night before the stage was to leave, Adam was no where to be found. Looking in the last place he thought he would find him in the middle of the day, he walked into his oldest son\u2019s room. Adam was laying on his stomach, backwards on the bed, his chin resting in his hands.<\/p>\n

\u201cWhat are you doing here?\u201d Ben asked smiling as his son looked up at him through his thick black lashes.<\/p>\n

\u201cJust thinking Pa.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cOh, about what?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cThings. Leaving.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cAaahh, having second thoughts?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cMaybe.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cWhat are you worried about?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cI don\u2019t\u2019 know. Everything I guess. What if something happens on the stage. What if I get there and Grandfather decides he doesn\u2019t want me to stay with him. What if Judy forgets who I am. I\u2019m not gonna know anybody.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cThat sounds like a lot to worry about. I understand your being scared son. It\u2019s a long way to travel alone. But, I\u2019m sure everything will work out.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019m not scared Pa.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cOkay, worried.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cWorried, but not scared. I never said anything about being scared.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cAlright Adam, I understand. You\u2019re nervous about leaving\u2026\u2026..\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cWorried.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cWorried, scared, nervous\u2026\u2026\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

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

\u201cWhat? I meant me!\u201d<\/p>\n

Adam laughed, his father pushing him over on the bed.<\/p>\n

\u201cWhen I left for the sea the first time, I worried the same as you. I remember crying when we pulled away from the bay, and blaming my tears on the salt water. After a few days, I knew what to expect, I felt much better. I still missed home, my friends. But, I made new friends, and soon I thought of them as my family. It\u2019ll be fine Adam, you\u2019ll see. Why don\u2019t you come on downstairs. You\u2019re little brother wanted you to show him how to lasso again.\u201d<\/p>\n

When he stood up to leave the room, Adam had risen also. He pulled his father into a tight hug, whispering a quiet thank you as they walked down the stairs. \u201c
\nAdam, we\u2019ll be together through this whole thing. You don\u2019t have to face this alone ya know.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cI know Pa, it\u2019s just that\u2026\u2026\u2026.well\u2026\u2026\u2026.I\u2019m worried about how I\u2019ll react when I see them again. I don\u2019t know if I can face them. What if I freeze up, or slip away?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cThen we\u2019ll be there to hold you up. Have I ever let you down before?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cNo, never. It just doesn\u2019t seem real, you know. It\u2019s kind of like we\u2019re camping, only I\u2019m scared to death. It feels like it was only an hour ago, that we were all together, fighting over the juiciest steak. It was all so different then. I get home, and it looks like it always did. Only I\u2019m on the outside looking in. I\u2019m afraid most mornings that it\u2019s all a dream. I\u2019m really still out there, fighting for my life. How do I know this is all real, that you\u2019re real, or Hoss?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cBecause you can feel it son. Deep down, you know what\u2019s real, and what\u2019s in the past. I\u2019m praying this is a new beginning for you Adam. A way to leave everything else behind.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019m praying too Pa. Only I\u2019m praying that when it comes down to it, and I\u2019m faced with the past, I\u2019ll have enough control that I won\u2019t kill these men with my bare hands.\u201d<\/p>\n

Chapter 10<\/p>\n

\u201cToday\u2019s the day Cain, my family should be here by noon.\u201d Joe said smiling as he stared at the group in the jail cell.<\/p>\n

\u201cHe ain\u2019t gonna show, I done told you that. Besides, I\u2019m innocent.\u201d Cain delivered his sinister smile as quiet chuckles echoed behind him.<\/p>\n

Joe stood to check outside once again. He knew they would be arriving anytime. He hoped to intercept his brother before he confronted the men in the cell. Hearing hoof beats echoing in the distance he brought his hand up to shield his eyes from the blazing sun.<\/p>\n

\u201cThat\u2019s Joe Pa. See, he\u2019s waiting on us.\u201d Hoss said as he checked behind him for his older brother and the sheriff.<\/p>\n

\u201cSure is, boy am I glad to see him. I was hoping he didn\u2019t take matters into his own hands before we got here.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cMe too. Little brother sure has a temper on him, I wonder how he managed it.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cAdam, are you sure you want to go through with this?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cDo I have a choice?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cOf course you have a choice. Your father and brother\u2019s can testify as witnesses, there\u2019s a good chance they\u2019ll get convicted just by their testimonies.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cThere\u2019s also a chance they would be let go. I can\u2019t let that happen. No, I have to testify. I just don\u2019t know how I\u2019m gonna\u2026\u2026\u2026\u2026.I don\u2019t want Pa to know\u2026\u2026\u2026\u2026..\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cYour Pa will be fine. You just focus on yourself son. When we see these men, I just want you to be sure not to do anything rash. You\u2019ll land your self in trouble if you take the law into your own hands.\u201d<\/p>\n

Roy watched as a shadow crept across Adam\u2019s face. He could tell he was slipping away into memories, and he reacted quickly to bring him out of it.<\/p>\n

\u201cAdam, you remember that time I came to visit the Ponderosa, and found you and Hoss covered head to toe in hog manure.\u201d<\/p>\n

Adam shook his head, coming back to reality. \u201cI do remember. Pa was out with the ranch hands, and Hoss and I were supposed to be cleaning out the pens.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cInstead you two urchins got into a wrestling match. When I rode up you had Hoss pinned face down in the manure you were supposed to be cleaning up.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cThat\u2019s right. I was sitting on his back to keep him pinned down.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cWhat were you two fighting about? I don\u2019t think I ever asked.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cHoss thought it would be funny to fling the mud at me. It hit me in the back of the head. He just laughed and laughed, at least until I shut his mouth with a fist full of manure.\u201d<\/p>\n

Roy laughed picturing the ten year old and the four year old caked with mud and yuck. The only thing clean on their bodies was their eyes, wide and pleading with the sheriff not to tell their father.<\/p>\n

\u201cIt took probably twenty buckets of water each to get you boys clean enough to go in the house.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cThat water was freezing. But, it saved my hide from a tanning. Pa never did find out about that day.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cNope, that was our little secret wasn\u2019t it. You know, you boys don\u2019t know how much pleasure you brought me, seeing you grow up. I always felt like a sort of uncle to you boys.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cYou are like an uncle Roy. I appreciate everything you\u2019ve done for us over the years.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cRoy, Adam. Glad to see you!\u201d Joe said as his oldest brother and the sheriff approached.<\/p>\n

\u201cJoe. Sorry it took so long. That\u2019s not an easy ride.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cNo it isn\u2019t Adam. You made good time. You feeling okay?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cOkay. Where are they?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cNow, I don\u2019t want you to get yourself all wound up. There in the cell, all four of them. I don\u2019t think\u2026\u2026\u2026\u2026\u2026\u2026..\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cThere were five.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cFive?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cSuzie.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cSuzie?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cThe woman that was with them. She\u2019s not here?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cNo Adam, there we\u2019re only four of them in the saloon. All men. I didn\u2019t know a woman was involved.\u201d<\/p>\n

Adam\u2019s eyes turned nearly black as he realized one of his tormenters were still free.<\/p>\n

\u201cI want to see them.\u201d He said walking quickly past his little brother.<\/p>\n

\u201cNo Adam, let us go in first. You come in behind us.\u201d Ben said gripping his son\u2019s arm as he walked past.<\/p>\n

\u201cLET GO!\u201d Adam yelled as he tried to free himself from his father\u2019s strong grasp.<\/p>\n

\u201cYou are not going in first Adam. Roy, you go on ahead.\u201d<\/p>\n

Roy did as instructed. He walked towards the entrance of the jail watching the look of pure hatred enter Adam\u2019s eyes.<\/p>\n

\u201cNow you listen to me. You have every right to want to kill these men, but that is not the way this is going to go down. You will remain here until you get control of yourself, then we\u2019ll go in together.\u201d Ben said as he whispered into his son\u2019s ear.<\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019m not going to kill them Pa. Their behind bars. I just want to be sure that we have the right men.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cThat\u2019s fine. But the look in your eyes says something different. I want you to calm down before we go in.\u201d<\/p>\n

Adam struggled once more against his father\u2019s grasp. His heart rate was increasing, and his hands were shaking. He knew he had to get himself under control. Pushing all thoughts from his mind, he focused on his breathing. His body began to relax, and with it so did Ben\u2019s heavy grasp.<\/p>\n

After a few long minutes he faced his father. His eyes shown brown once again, and he nodded to indicate he was ready.<\/p>\n

Walking slowly to the door, Adam held it open for his father. He saw the room nearly full, Little Joe, Hoss, Roy and his father standing protectively around him.<\/p>\n

\u201cYou ready Adam?\u201d The sheriff in charge of the prisoner\u2019s asked as he stepped toward the door leading to the cells.<\/p>\n

\u201cReady.\u201d Adam said, keeping himself in check, though he was struggling.<\/p>\n

The group walked through the doors, Adam leading the way. His family remained close behind to intervene at the first sign of trouble.<\/p>\n

\u201cWho\u2019s this?\u201d Cain asked standing as the group approached.<\/p>\n

\u201cDon\u2019t play dumb Cain, you know who this is.\u201d Joe said being held back by sheriff Coffee.<\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019ve never seen this man before in my life. Told you, I had nothing to do with what I\u2019m accused of.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cShe didn\u2019t die Cain.\u201d Adam said as his arms burned wanting to reach for the throat of the man before him.<\/p>\n

\u201cWhat?\u201d Cain asked, his voice cracking and his face turning red.<\/p>\n

\u201cThe little girl. I thought she was, but now I remember. She ran off into the woods. You didn\u2019t kill her. You never could do anything right.\u201d His voice was low but unthreatening.<\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2026\u2026I\u2026\u2026..I don\u2019t know who you\u2019re talking about.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cSure you do. She was what, maybe eleven years old. I saw her a minute ago, in town. I didn\u2019t realize it until now. It was her all the same. You\u2019re gonna hang Cain. You and your posse.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cGet this man out of my sight. He\u2019s insane. I have no idea what he\u2019s talking about!\u201d Cain said turning his back on the man in black. The posse watched him menacingly, wondering if what he said was true.<\/p>\n

\u201cI have to go Pa. We have to go find her. She can be another witness.\u201d Adam said turning to leave the room. His mind was focused on the mission ahead of him. He had tried hard to save that girls life and keep her from harm. He had nearly been killed because of it. It had earned him a broken hand. That was his punishment for interfering in the abuse of the young child.<\/p>\n

Adam pushed his way quickly out of the room. Running to his horse he sped back to where he had seen the child. She was in front of the mercantile. Her eye\u2019s hollow and staring as he slowly approached.<\/p>\n

\u201cAbigail?\u201d Adam said as he dismounted and walked slowly towards the girl.<\/p>\n

\u201cCan I help you mister?\u201d A stranger asked as he put his arms around the girl.<\/p>\n

\u201cShe made it. She made it out alive. I prayed she would, I\u2026\u2026\u2026\u2026..\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cWho are you! What do you want with my daughter.\u201d The man asked again as he stepped between the two.<\/p>\n

\u201cAdam?\u201d The girl whispered, stepping side ways to see around her father.<\/p>\n

\u201cYes, Adam. I knew it was you. Are you alright?\u201d He said reaching towards her hand.<\/p>\n

\u201cShe\u2019s fine. How do you know my daughter mister?\u201d the man said watching the exchange.<\/p>\n

\u201cHe\u2019s the man that helped me in the woods father. That man would of killed me if it wasn\u2019t for Adam. He stopped the log before it hit me too hard. I fell, and then I heard Adam scream. After that I laid real still, hoping they\u2019d leave me alone. Are you okay?\u201d She asked looking him over quickly.<\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019m okay now that I know you made it. Listen sir. The men that kidnapped us is in that jail over there. There\u2019s gonna be a trial tomorrow. It would be helpful if your daughter would give a statement to the judge.\u201d<\/p>\n

The man looked over to the jail. He\u2019s eyes focused only on the sign above the door. Without speaking a word he took his daughter by the shoulder\u2019s and led her quickly away.<\/p>\n

\u201cWell, you tried Adam. With your testimony, we\u2019re sure to get the results we\u2019re seeking. We better head to the judges office to let him know you\u2019re here.\u201d Ben said placing a comforting hand on his son\u2019s shoulder. He felt Adam shudder once again, and his eye\u2019s never left the father and child who we\u2019re now riding quickly out of town.<\/p>\n

\u201cWe\u2019ve got to find her Pa. She\u2019s got to be there.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cSon, I don\u2019t think her father wants her involved.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cNot the girl Pa. Sheila. She deserves to hang for what she did to that child.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cWe\u2019ll ask around. But, we can hold the trial without her for now. It\u2019s better to get this over with as quickly as possible son.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cI know. God, I know.\u201d Adam said walking away as the father and daughter disappeared from sight.<\/p>\n

\u201cJudge, this is the man we\u2019ve been waiting for. This is Adam Cartwright.\u201d The sheriff said as the men entered the judge\u2019s office.<\/p>\n

\u201cAdam Cartwright. Glad you could make it.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cThank you Judge. This is my family, Ben Cartwright, Hoss, and Joe. This is Roy Coffee, sheriff of Virginia City.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cGlad to meet you gentlemen. I\u2019m sorry to rush you, but we don\u2019t have much time to talk. Adam, I want you to understand that you will be expected to tell the entire story from beginning to end. Then, you will be cross examined by the defense attorney. Your brother tells me that you\u2019ve had a hard time of it. I need to be sure you are going to be able to get through this trial. It could be long and drawn out, depending on what the defense has in store.<\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019ll be fine sheriff. It\u2019s true I\u2019ve had a hard time these past six months. But, I will get through the testimony. I have one request however\u2026\u2026\u2026\u2026\u2026\u2026..\u201d<\/p>\n

Adam was interrupted as a loud boom rang out. Screams were heard in the street as everyone rushed towards the door. Adam remained where he was, his mind reeling.<\/p>\n

\u201cI don\u2019t want my family to be present when I testify\u2026\u2026\u2026\u201d Adam finished to the empty room.<\/p>\n

\u201cIt\u2019s the jail! Somebody\u2019s done gone and blown it up!\u201d A man screamed as the group rushed towards the commotion.<\/p>\n

Ben searched for Adam, not seeing him with the group. \u201cHoss, you\u2019re brother. Go check on Adam!\u201d He called, praying his son was still in the judge\u2019s office, and not in a fit of hysteria.<\/p>\n

\u201cAdam? You okay big brother?\u201d Hoss asked entering the judge\u2019s office and seeing his brother standing in the middle of the room.<\/p>\n

\u201cWhat was it?\u201d Adam asked, wringing his hands together.<\/p>\n

\u201cSomeone blew up the jail. It don\u2019t look good Adam. I can\u2019t imagine anyone would have survived.\u201d Hoss said walking a step closer to his brother.<\/p>\n

\u201cThey\u2019re dead?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cI think so.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cThere won\u2019t be a trial? I don\u2019t have to testify?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cNo, those men are most likely dead Adam. It\u2019s all over.\u201d Hoss said taking another step towards his brother.<\/p>\n

Adam felt the tension leave his body as a feeling of relief overwhelmed him. He couldn\u2019t stop the tears that slipped from his eyes. He felt himself pulled into his brother\u2019s arms. His large body enveloped him, and Adam allowed himself to relax in his brother\u2019s embrace.<\/p>\n

\u201cIt\u2019s okay now Adam. Them men won\u2019t be able to hurt anybody else.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cHoss! Is he here?\u201d Ben called as he rushed back into the office.<\/p>\n

\u201cHe\u2019s here Pa.\u201d Hoss said still holding his brother.<\/p>\n

\u201cThey\u2019re dead Adam, all of them. They\u2019re laid out. Would you like to see them? Will it help?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cI wanna see \u2018em Pa. Just give me a minute. Keep little Joe out of here.\u201d Adam said pulling away from his brother and trying to collect himself.<\/p>\n

\u201cPA!\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cJust a minute Joe. We\u2019ll be right out.\u201d Ben called, granting Adam\u2019s wish. \u201cYou ready?\u201d He asked seeing his son turn towards the door.<\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019m ready.\u201d He said, his voice still shaking.<\/p>\n

Adam led the way as the men walked slowly behind him. They knew he would want his privacy, if it got too much for him to handle. He walked up to the covered bodies, seeing four in a row. He knew by their size which one was Cain. He lifted the sheet, looking over the charred remains of the man that had scarred him for life. Even though the body was nearly unrecognizable Adam knew that this was him. He covered him again with the sheet, then stood above the bodies. The sheriff came to stand beside him. \u201cGuess you can go on home son. Won\u2019t be no trial now. Gotta find out who did this.\u201d<\/p>\n

Adam grunted a response as he surveyed the crowd that had gathered. His eyes met that of the man who had led away the young girl only a few minutes before. Their eye\u2019s met for a brief moment, the man giving Adam a slight nod. Adam nodded in response, then turned towards his family.<\/p>\n

\u201cLet\u2019s go home.\u201d He said as he walked towards his horse, leaving the bodies behind him.<\/p>\n

Chapter 11<\/p>\n

\u201cHere Adam, you got some mail.\u201d Hoss said laying the mail on the dinner table as his brother washed up at the basin.<\/p>\n

\u201cThanks Hoss. Did you see Joe\u2019s face today, I\u2019ve never seen him so flustered.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cWell big brother, it\u2019s not often that a person can jump over a rolling log.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cStill don\u2019t know how I managed that. I just reacted.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019m just glad to see you got your reflexes back. You could have been killed today.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cYeah, Joe looked at me as if I were a ghost.\u201d Adam laughed, remembering his brother backing away from him for a moment.<\/p>\n

\u201cHey, that reminds me of that prank we played on little Joe when you got back from college.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cI don\u2019t know if I remember. What\u2019d we do?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cWe gotta get him back. No way is he gonna get off scott free. I still can\u2019t get that smell out of my bed.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cI know. Hop Sing has been raving mad, when you threw that sheet in with the other laundry, it made all of it smell like skunk. My favorite shirt was in that pile.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cWell, we gotta get him back that\u2019s for sure. You got any plans?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cYou remember a while back when we were talking about old man Taylor\u2019s haunted house.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cYeah. He was sure scared, though he wouldn\u2019t let on.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cRight, well I was thinking, what if we made that ghost come to life.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cHow we gonna do that Adam?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cJust stick with me big little brother.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cAdam? Hoss? You guys here?\u201d Hop Sing!\u201d Joe called feeling like enough time had passed for him to return home without the fear of retaliation. \u201cPa?\u201d<\/p>\n

He walked towards the stairs, wondering if his brother\u2019s were in Adam\u2019s room. Hoss sometimes went in there when they wanted to be alone. He walked in without knocking, just to get his brother\u2019s goat.<\/p>\n

\u201cAdam?\u201d He asked into the empty room. Walking through the rest of the house, he realized it was empty. \u201cWhere\u2019d everybody go?\u201d<\/p>\n

He walked back into the great room and sat in Adam\u2019s blue chair by the fire. He knew everyone was angry with him for the incident with the skunk, but surely they wouldn\u2019t just leave the ranch without him. He watched the fire as he tried to remember if anyone had said anything to him that morning about them not being home. Hearing a bang upstairs, he stood up from his chair. He heard it again, then heard the clunk of a chain being drug across the floor. It seemed to be headed for the stairs.<\/p>\n

\u201cAdam? Is that you?\u201d He said shakily, as the sound echoed again.<\/p>\n

\u201cJooo—eeee—-ssss—eeeeppphhhh.\u201d A voice whispered above him, the tone much like that of a woman.<\/p>\n

\u201cWh\u2026who is\u2026\u2026.it?\u201d Joe asked to the ceiling.<\/p>\n

\u201cYou\u2026\u2026\u2026.know\u2026.who\u2026.I\u2026\u2026..am!\u201d The voice called again, this time with an edge of anger.<\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2026\u2026don\u2019t. Who are you?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cYou stole my land Joseph Cartwright, I lived here before you! Your house rests on my grave!\u201d The voice changed, high pitched and shouting. A loud bang again sounded above, little Joe was sure she was coming through the floor.<\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2026\u2026.I\u2026\u2026.I\u2019m sorry. My Pa and brother built this house, I\u2019m sure they didn\u2019t know.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cGET OUT!\u201d The voice shouted as the clinking sound moved quickly towards the stairs. Joe turned around and bolted out the door as the sound followed him, coming down the stairs. Tears stung his eyes as he ran towards the barn. Slamming the door behind him, he ran to the last stall to hide behind his brother\u2019s horse Sport.<\/p>\n

\u201cJoseph!\u201d A voice boomed, causing him to scream out. \u201cWhat are you doing?\u201d Ben asked, seeing his son cover his head.<\/p>\n

\u201cThere\u2019s a g\u2026.g\u2026.ghost Pa. In the house. She told me to get out. She\u2019s after me Pa!\u201d Joe cried running towards his father who had just returned from hunting down strays with the ranch hands.<\/p>\n

\u201cA ghost. Joseph, there is no such thing as ghosts. Stop this nonsense and go in the house.<\/p>\n

\u201cI can\u2019t Pa. Adam and Hoss told me that a ghost haunted old man Taylor\u2019s house. Now she\u2019s here, and she wants her land back!\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cI already told you\u2026\u2026\u2026\u2026.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cBut Pa, I heard her. I can\u2019t go back in that house.<\/p>\n

\u201cWe\u2019ll just see about this.\u201d Ben said leading Joseph back towards the house.<\/p>\n

\u201cP\u2026\u2026P\u2026\u2026.PA!\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cADAM, HOSS! GET OUT HERE NOW!\u201d Ben yelled as he entered the house. He knew his son\u2019s were behind this little escapade.<\/p>\n

\u201cYou go!\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cNo you go!\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cYou\u2019re older. He\u2019ll take it easy on you.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cNo way, this was your idea!\u201d
\n\u201cMY IDEA!\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cNOW!\u201d He yelled again, this time his hands were on his hips.<\/p>\n

\u201cYeah Pa?\u201d Hoss said as he was pushed in front of the top of the stair case.<\/p>\n

\u201cCome down here. Bring your older brother with you!\u201d<\/p>\n

Adam appeared behind Hoss as they made their way down the stairs.<\/p>\n

\u201cWould you like to explain why your little brother was in the barn hiding in Sports stall!\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cUm, well you see Pa, that\u2019s a long sad story. The thing is that he\u2019s okay now. No harm done.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cNO HARM DONE! YOU KNOW HOW YOUR BROTHER HAS NIGHTMARES! I WANT AN EXPLANATION!\u201d Ben yelled causing all three son\u2019s to step backwards.<\/p>\n

\u201cTell \u2018em Hoss.\u201d Adam said pushing his brother back towards his father.<\/p>\n

\u201cRemember the other day when Joe put that skunk in my bed. Well, ya see, me and Adam, well\u2026\u2026\u2026\u2026.it was just a joke Pa.\u201d<\/p>\n

Ben remained staring at his son\u2019s as Hoss\u2019s explanation suddenly stopped.<\/p>\n

\u201cAdam, what was your part in this?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cI just did the sound effects Pa. Bessie Sue\u2026\u2026\u2026\u2026\u2026..\u201d Adam stopped realizing he had just dug himself deeper.<\/p>\n

\u201cBessie Sue WHAT?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cHello Mr. Cartwright.\u201d Bessie Sue said walking slowly down the stairs.<\/p>\n

\u201cYou were the lady!\u201d Joe looked astonished as she came to stand next to Hoss.<\/p>\n

\u201cSorry Joe. Um, I better be getting home. See you later Hoss, and Adam don\u2019t forget your promise.\u201d She said as she hurried out the door.<\/p>\n

The door closed loudly, setting Adam and Hoss to jumping again. Their father\u2019s face had turned rather red, and they knew that this meant trouble.<\/p>\n

\u201cMY TWO GROWN SON\u2019S! I THOUGHT YOU HAD MORE SENSE THAN THIS. YOU APOLOGIZE TO YOUR BROTHER THIS INSTANT!\u201d Ben hollered again, walking towards his two sons. They backed towards the wall, Adam behind Hoss as they hit the wall.<\/p>\n

\u201cOuch! Hoss your squishing me.\u201d Adam whispered as Hoss smashed him against the wall.<\/p>\n

\u201cSorry Joe!\u201d Hoss said still trying to move back against the wall. \u201cMove Adam!\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cI can\u2019t breathe!\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cI want you boys to go finish your chores. When you come back, I will have a list for you. You have time to pull pranks on your little brother, you have time to whitewash the barn. NOW GET TO WORK!\u201d Ben finished, heading towards his desk, mumbling under his breath. \u201cInvolving Bessie Sue\u2026\u2026\u2026.now the neighbors will think I raised my boys to\u2026\u2026\u2026\u2026two grown men\u2026\u2026\u2026..children\u2026\u2026\u2026a house full of children!\u201d<\/p>\n

Little Joe followed his brother\u2019s out of the house. Adam pausing on the porch to catch his breath.<\/p>\n

\u201cWow, Pa was really upset with you two. Sorry you got extra chores. I didn\u2019t really think that was a ghost anyway, you didn\u2019t fool me.\u201d Joe said as the brother\u2019s walked towards the barn. \u201cWhat else you think Pa will give you to do. I hope you have to clean up the tack room. I hate that job.\u201d<\/p>\n

Adam stopped mid stride, as his brother followed close behind.<\/p>\n

\u201cHey Hoss, what do you say we get started on that whitewash now. Isn\u2019t there a bucket of it by the door?\u201d<\/p>\n

Hoss studied his brother. He knew Adam hated whitewashing, why would he want to get an early start? He saw Adam motion slightly with his head towards little Joe.<\/p>\n

\u201cSure brother. Here, I\u2019ll grab the bucket.\u201d Hoss said grabbing the bucket full of water that sat next to the door finally understanding his older brother.<\/p>\n

Adam moved to the side surprising his little brother just as the water covered him. Joe stood soaking wet, scowling at his two older brother\u2019s who were now rolling with laughter.<\/p>\n

\u201cHow was your bath Joe? We know how much you love to take \u2018em!\u201d Adam laughed as he watched the water drip off his brother\u2019s nose.<\/p>\n

\u201cYeah, you look a little wet behind the ears Joe!\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019ll get you for that!\u201d Joe whispered, reaching down to ring out his shirt.<\/p>\n

\u201cWhat was that baby brother?\u201d Adam asked walking towards his dripping brother.<\/p>\n

\u201cWhat are you doing Adam?\u201d He said walking backwards.<\/p>\n

\u201cGet him Hoss!\u201d He yelled as he lunged, tackling Joe to the ground. Together the brother\u2019s picked him up, Adam holding his arms, and Hoss his legs as they walked into the barn.<\/p>\n

\u201cLET ME GO!\u201d Joe squirmed, kicking his legs and wriggling trying to get free.<\/p>\n

\u201cHold him. I don\u2019t think he learned his lesson yet!\u201d Adam said laying him down on the hay bales.<\/p>\n

\u201cPA!\u201d Joe yelled as Hoss lay his weight on top of his brother.<\/p>\n

\u201cGet his boots Adam!\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cNO, NO! I learned. I learned!\u201d Joe yelled as he fought to keep his boots on. \u201cDon\u2019t tickle \u2018em Adam! AAAADDDAAAMMMM!\u201d He laughed as his feet were assaulted in a tickle attack. \u201cPlease, I learned. Don\u2019t tickle \u2018em no more!\u201d He said out of breath, but still laughing. Hoss let him up, and sat next to him on the hay bale.<\/p>\n

\u201cYou sure you learned your lesson little Joe?\u201d He said putting an arm around his little brother as Adam sat on the other side of him.<\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019m sure. Can I just give you one word of advice?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cWhat\u2019s that Joe?\u201d Adam asked feeling his brother tense up to get ready to run.<\/p>\n

\u201cSleep with one eye open!\u201d He said as he darted out the doors, laughing as his brother\u2019s gave chase.<\/p>\n

\u201cWhat was the promise Adam?\u2019<\/p>\n

\u201cDon\u2019t tell me you forgot that! I had to take Bessie Sue\u2019s cousin Penny to the next dance. We thought Bessie Sue was big, Penny was as big as the ranch house. She stepped on my feet so many times, I couldn\u2019t walk for a week.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cThat\u2019s right. Pa made you do the books twice over that week, and clean all the rifle\u2019s in the rack.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cYeah, he had me cleaning the china too. He sure was in a bad mood that week!\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cYou\u2019d be in bad mood too if you had to raise three heathens.\u201d Ben said smiling and patting his son\u2019s on the back. \u201cI hope some day you have children and they turn out just like you!\u201d<\/p>\n

The three laughed together as Ben went into tales of his own childhood, and the mischief he and his brother caused his own father. The mail sat forgotten on the dining room table.<\/p>\n

\u201cWhere in Sam hell have you BEEN?\u201d Ben asked storming towards his oldest son who had just entered the house.<\/p>\n

\u201cCalm down Pa.\u201d He answered nonchalantly as he hung his hat on the hook next to the door.<\/p>\n

\u201cCALM DOWN! MY SON LEAVES IN THE MIDDLE OF THE NIGHT AND DOESN\u2019T\u2019 COME BACK FOR TWELVE HOURS AND I\u2019M SUPPOSED TO BE CALM!\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019m sorry if you worried, I was just taking a ride.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cA ride, right. You know you are to tell someone where you are going! What is the meaning of your leaving like that!\u201d<\/p>\n

Adam walked away from his father towards the kitchen, ignoring him completely. He knew he would not get off so easily, but he needed some time to collect his thoughts.<\/p>\n

\u201cIt was those dreams again wasn\u2019t it. Why don\u2019t you come talk to me, instead of leaving in the middle of the night.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cTHEY\u2019RE NOT DREAMS PA!\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cFine. What ever you consider them then. You can\u2019t keep doing this, it\u2019s dangerous to ride out alone like that.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cI told you I needed some time for myself. I\u2019m not twelve years old anymore, I do not need permission to go out alone!\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cYou do need to have consideration for your family young man. That means you don\u2019t keep us worried all night. You\u2019re not the only one who went through a hard time those eight months Adam!\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cDon\u2019t you think I know that! I see it in your eyes every time you look at me. I\u2019m sorry that you were worried, but I will not stand for being followed around like a child.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cNo one is following you around. We just want to know that you are safe.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019m safe Pa. Safe as I\u2019ve always been, safe as I always will be. Please, I just need my space.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cAdam\u2026\u2026\u2026\u2026\u2026..\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019m leaving Pa.\u201d<\/p>\n

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

\u201cI\u2019m going to New York to see Jimmy and Judy. They wrote me again, they had their child. His name is James Adam King. They want me to be the babies
\nGodfather. I\u2019m going down for his christening.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cNew York! You can\u2019t possibly go all the way to New York. Not with the way\u2026\u2026..\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019m going to New York Pa. I\u2019m doing much better now, and even when I have trouble, I come through it quickly. I have to do this. Everyday I am on this ranch I\u2019m reminded of\u2026\u2026..well I\u2026\u2026\u2026this is just what I need to do.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cBut your brother\u2019s, you know how they worry. I don\u2019t think now is a good time.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cNow is as good a time as ever. I\u2019m going to tell them tonight after dinner. I\u2019ll be leaving on the morning stage.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cAdam\u2026\u2026\u2026\u2026\u2026\u2026.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cAfter dinner Pa.\u201d<\/p>\n

Adam walked towards the bath house. He had wanted to speak with his father sooner, and under better circumstances, but it just seemed to spill out of him. He undressed carefully, folding his shirt and pants neatly and laying them to the side. He caught sight of himself in the bath house mirror and closed his eyes quickly. Scarring nearly covered his body, various markings protruded from his skin. Wounds from being burned with sticks, lash marks from the horse whip, stab wounds from where they poked him just deep enough to cause minimal damage. He stepped into the tub and let himself become submerged in the water.<\/p>\n

He thought of how he was going to tell his brother\u2019s he was leaving again. He remembered how devastated Joe had been when he left for college. How he had to win back his trust when he returned home again. He thought of Hoss and the many letters they exchanged while he had been away. Hoss had turned into a man while he was gone. Now, he knew he would miss more of their lives. This would not be a short trip, actually he had no idea when he would return. Sinking lower into the water he cleared his mind and focused on his breathing. Sleep found him quickly as he soaked in the warm water in the large metal tub.<\/p>\n

\u201cOh Ben, this is for me!\u201d Marie cried as she saw the large shiny tub sitting beneath the Christmas tree.<\/p>\n

\u201cJust for you my love.\u201d He said his eyes showing pleasure with her response.<\/p>\n

\u201cWho wants a dumb ole tub for Christmas?\u201d Hoss whispered to his brother as he watched his mother run her hands over the smooth metal.<\/p>\n

\u201cWomen!\u201d Adam said in response as he reached for his next present. \u201cHey Adam, can I sit with you a minute?\u201d Hoss asked as his mother and father stood admiring the new tub.<\/p>\n

\u201cSure Buddy, c\u2019mon over.\u201d Five year old Hoss climbed onto his brother\u2019s lap. He sat facing his brother, arms wrapped around Adam\u2019s middle and his head resting on his chest.<\/p>\n

\u201cMerry Christmas older brother.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cMerry Christmas to you.\u201d Adam replied kissing his brother\u2019s soft hair, then allowing his chin to rest lightly on his head.<\/p>\n

\u201cDid ya like your present from me Adam?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cOf course I did, that was the best picture anyone could have made me.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cIt was you going to the city, I know how you like to go places.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cYes, I do like to travel.\u201d<\/p>\n

Silence followed as Hoss snuggled with his brother, and Adam watched his mother and father turn towards the Christmas tree.<\/p>\n

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

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

\u201cWhen you gets to be older, you gonna go someplace I can\u2019t come?\u201d \u201cWhat do you mean buddy?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cI mean like to that old college you and Ma talks about? Or someplace across the sea like when you read me those stories?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cI plan to go to college Hoss, but that\u2019s not for another seven years. As for someplace across the sea, I don\u2019t know. Maybe.\u201d<\/p>\n

Hoss shuddered, causing his brother to lean him back to look into his eyes.<\/p>\n

\u201cDon\u2019t cry Hoss, I\u2019m not going anywhere now. We\u2019ve got lots of time to spend together.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cBut I don\u2019t want ya to go no place. I want you to stay with me and Pa and Momma. Why\u2019s you wanna leave?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cI don\u2019t want to leave Hoss, not right now. So there\u2019s no reason to worry like this.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cBut when you do leave, you gonna forget about us?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cNever. I could never forget about you, you\u2019re my family and I love you. I always will.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cYou promise?\u201d<\/p>\n

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

\u201cAnd you\u2019ll come back?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019ll come back.\u201d<\/p>\n

Hoss settled once again against his brother\u2019s chest. He felt his brother rub his back the way his father did, and Hoss breathed in the memory, promising himself to keep it treasured for when he may need it. He would use this memory for strength the day his brother left them.<\/p>\n

Adam felt bad after he talked with Hoss about his leaving. He had always loved to travel, he guessed because he spent so many years on the wagon with his father, crossing the country. Hoss was napping upstairs and his mother was busy in the kitchen with Hop Sing. His father sat in his red leather chair smoking his pipe and catching up on the newspaper\u2019s that had lay unread. Adam stood next to him and watched, wondering why he felt he needed comforting.<\/p>\n

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

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

Adam stayed silent as his father did not look up from the paper. Feeling bold he carefully removed the paper from his father\u2019s hands and set it on the table behind him. He then moved to sit on his father\u2019s lap, an action he had not partaken for at least a year. His father\u2019s face filled with wonder as his eleven year old snuggled in, the back of his head resting on his father\u2019s chest.<\/p>\n

Taking advantage of the moment, his father placed his arms around his child\u2019s waist, wrapping him in a comforting embrace.<\/p>\n

\u201cSo is this a late Christmas present?\u201d He laughed as his son placed his hands over his father\u2019s.<\/p>\n

\u201cPa? How come sometimes a person does something even though they know it might hurt other\u2019s around them?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cWhat is it this person did?\u201d He asked raising an eyebrow, hoping he would not have to punish his son for a misdeed on Christmas.<\/p>\n

\u201cHe left his family so he could see other places, even though it made \u2018em sad.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cWell, sometimes people have dreams, and those dreams should be followed. Your mind sometimes rules your body, and if you do not respond to what you feel you need to do, it can reek havoc on your body. You think about it constantly, maybe become obstinate and hard to live with. Sometimes your following that dream is the best for everyone around you, though they may not know it at the time. Of course, the love is still there, so you never really leave the one\u2019s you love behind.\u201d<\/p>\n

Ben looked down to see his son with his face turned up, staring up at him. His eye\u2019s were watery, and he could feel his son\u2019s body struggling for control of his emotions.<\/p>\n

\u201cWhat is it sweetheart? He asked looking into those deep brown eyes.<\/p>\n

Adam shifted positions, turning his body into his father. His face was buried in his father\u2019s vest, and his body shook against him. Ben rocked him gently and waited for the tears to pass. He rubbed circles into his son\u2019s back and kissed his hair.<\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019m sorry Pa. You probably think I\u2019m a big baby.\u201d The sentence came out muffled as he was still pressed against his father\u2019s vest.<\/p>\n

\u201cI don\u2019t think you\u2019re a baby son. I think you\u2019re a young man with something weighing on his mind. Why don\u2019t you tell me about it?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cI want to leave Pa.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cLeave, to where?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cTo college. Hoss asked me today if I would leave him, and he was upset. I told him I wanted to go to college, but that I would come home. But Pa, I want to see the world too. How can I tell him that I want to sail the ocean like you did Pa. He\u2019ll be so sad, how can I still want to do that, knowing how upset he\u2019ll be?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cHe will be upset for a while, we all will. We love you, and it\u2019s hard to let anyone you love leave for a long trip. But, we also understand, and we\u2019ll support your decisions no matter what because we love you.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cYou won\u2019t hate me, or forget about me when I leave?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cNever.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cAnd we\u2019ll write to each other, and send presents on Christmas?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cOf course. Now how about you and I clean up this mess for Hop Sing. There\u2019s still paper everywhere.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cOkay.\u201d<\/p>\n

Ben gave his son one final squeeze and started to get up.<\/p>\n

\u201cWait Pa!\u201d Adam said as his father began to shift his position. \u201cI want to be with you a minute.\u201d He said, pushing his father back into the chair, and once again resting his head on his father\u2019s chest.<\/p>\n

Ben smiled, though his vision was now blurred. He didn\u2019t mean to end the conversation early, but talking about Adam leaving on his own had caused him to become emotional. Not wanting to upset his son further he thought it best to redirect the situation. Now as he felt his son cuddle against him, he realized he must savor this moment. This could be the last time his son ever sat in his lap. He had often shied away from physical contact, and this was defiantly odd behavior for him. Wrapping his son in his arms once again, Ben closed his eyes to mark this moment into memory.<\/p>\n

\u201cNo I don\u2019t understand. How can you want to leave again! What\u2019s it gonna change Adam!\u201d Little Joe yelled as his brother informed them of his plan.<\/p>\n

\u201cI know it\u2019s hard Joe, but I already explained. It\u2019s what I feel I have to do.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cFine, you think that will make everything just disappear, go ahead and run. We can handle things around here without you. We have been for the last year!\u201d<\/p>\n

Adam closed his eyes against his brother\u2019s words. He knew he had not been able to keep up as well as he used to. He still had trouble focusing on one task for long periods of time. But, he felt everyone knew he was doing the best he could.<\/p>\n

\u201cThat ain\u2019t right Joe, you know Adam\u2019s doing the best he can.\u201d Hoss spoke up defending his older brother.<\/p>\n

\u201cSure Hoss, stick up for him like you always do. Just like when he left for college. You probably didn\u2019t want to come back. You spent four years living your life without us and probably didn\u2019t even think of us. Selfish, just plain selfish. How long you plan on being gone this time older brother? Who knows if you\u2019ll ever come back!\u201d<\/p>\n

Turning on his heels Joe headed for the door, grabbing his hat on the way out. Ben started towards his son, but Adam\u2019s hand stopped him. Adam stood slowly and followed his brother towards the barn. He knew Joe would be in a hurry to escape so he hurried towards Joe\u2019s horse.<\/p>\n

\u201cJoe.\u201d He said grabbing a hold of Cochise reigns.<\/p>\n

\u201cGet outta my way!\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cPlease Joe, talk to me. Please.\u201d Adam said allowing his unshed tears to fall.<\/p>\n

\u201cNo, you don\u2019t care about us, how we feel. All you ever think about is finding something better. Well you let me know brother if the grass is really greener on the other side!\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cIt\u2019s not Joe. That\u2019s not what I\u2019m doing.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cThen what are you doing?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cHaven\u2019t you ever felt the need to just escape? I have to do this Joe, if I don\u2019t, I\u2019m never going to get over what happened to me out there. I need to see some new places, meet new people, and know that every stranger I see isn\u2019t out to get me. You don\u2019t understand Joe, you don\u2019t understand what it\u2019s like for me.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cYOU WON\u2019T TELL US ANYTHING. HOW AM I SUPPOSED TO UNDERSTAND!\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cYou are supposed to understand because you are my brother. I thought you would at least try. I don\u2019t want to hurt you and Hoss and Pa. I don\u2019t want to hurt anyone. I\u2019m sorry Joe. I\u2019m sorry.\u201d<\/p>\n

Joe watched as his brother fell apart in front of him. He sat on his knees with his head in his hands, his shoulder\u2019s shaking with raw emotion. Coming off of Cochise Joe knelt in front of his brother, pulling him to his chest without a word. Tears spilled onto his shirt as he rocked his brother, doing his best to comfort him.<\/p>\n

\u201cPa\u2019s really mad this time. But, it wasn\u2019t my fault Adam. Those boy\u2019s were making fun of Hoss, and I couldn\u2019t help it. I know I\u2019m not supposed to fight, but I had too. I just had too!\u201d<\/p>\n

Joe stood in front of his brother who had been chopping wood. His father had been forced to come to the school and get him, as his teacher had kept him after school for so long. Ben had stormed in the house in front of him, instructing Joe to wait in his room.<\/p>\n

\u201cYou had a rough day I take it. Who were you fighting with?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cMike and Davie. They said Hoss was as big as an ox, only an ox would have more sense. Then they started doing impressions of him. I just couldn\u2019t stand there. Pa\u2019s gonna give me a necessary talk Adam. Why won\u2019t he understand?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cHe understands Joe. He just wants you to find other ways of solving your problems. I\u2019m sorry little buddy. I\u2019ll talk to him and see what I can do. You better get on in the house before he comes looking for you.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cYou think you can get me outta the spankin?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019ll try. You know Pa, he usually sticks to his word.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cTry real hard Adam. Promise me.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cI promise, I\u2019ll try hard. But remember, Pa hardly ever changes his mind when it comes to a necessary talk.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cThanks Adam, just as long as you try.\u201d<\/p>\n

Joe waited anxiously in his room. He paced the floor wondering how his oldest brother was faring with his father. Finally, he came to rest by the window, hoping his britches weren\u2019t about to be warmed.<\/p>\n

Adam spoke with his father about what Joe had said, but his words seemed to have little impact. This was the third fight Joe had been in in two weeks. His father started towards the stairs, his plans for his youngest unwavering. Adam sat in his favorite blue chair, fighting the frustration he felt towards his father. He knew his brother had earned this spanking, but it always bothered him for one of his brother\u2019s to be hurt. He listened to the yelps of his brother through the ceiling, hoping that each yelp was the last. Finally sounds ceased from above. He knew his father would soothe him afterwards, so he waited silently for his turn to check on his brother.<\/p>\n

\u201cWhat ya doin\u2019 Adam?\u201d Hoss asked walking in from watering the horses.<\/p>\n

\u201cWaitin to talk with Little Joe.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cWhy you have to wait? Ain\u2019t he upstairs?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cPa just got through with him.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cA necessary talk?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cYep, a necessary talk.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cThat ain\u2019t good.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cNope. Glad I\u2019m too old for those now a days. Pa sure can deliver a hard lesson.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cYes he can. My tail still stings time to time just thinking of it.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cHere he comes. I\u2019m gonna sneak up and talk to him. Cover for me Hoss.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cSure older brother. Use the back stairs.\u201d<\/p>\n

Adam hurried up the backstairs as his father came down the main staircase. He slipped silently into his brother\u2019s room, seeing him laying on his stomach with his head in the pillows.<\/p>\n

\u201cYou okay little buddy?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cHe still did it Adam. I thought you could talk him out of it.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cI tried. His mind was set.\u201d<\/p>\n

Adam picked his brother up off the bed and sat him in his lap. Joe hid his face in the crook of his brother\u2019s neck, hugging him tightly.<\/p>\n

\u201cI love you Joe. I\u2019m sorry it happened. Did you two make up?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cYeah, he said I needed to find a new way to deal with my problems. He told me to tell Ms. Jones next time those boys are giving me trouble. I can\u2019t do that! Then I\u2019d be known as a tattle tale.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cThat\u2019s true. But, you gotta weigh your options. Either tell Ms. Jones about your trouble, or handle it with your fists. Then Pa will handle you when he gets home.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cAin\u2019t much of a choice older brother. Either way I\u2019m gonna end up hurtin.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cYou know what I did when people would say things to me?\u201d<\/p>\n

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

\u201cWell, one time when I was about twelve, I had just started school. A boy made some remarks about your Ma. I lost my temper and broke the kids jaw. Then, Pa about broke my tail. So, next time someone made a remark that I didn\u2019t like, I refused to acknowledge it. I pretended they weren\u2019t even there. If they came at me, I would dodge \u2018em. Eventually they would get so worn out trying to hit me that they just wore out. It took a few times, but eventually they left me alone because they knew they would get nothing out of me. Every now and again, a kid would get in a lucky punch, but that was rare. You could try that Joe. You\u2019re fast, I bet you could dodge more punches than I could.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cWhat about your friends? Didn\u2019t they think you were yellow for not fighting back?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cNot if they knew my Pa. Actually, they thought it looked like fun, the bully ended up looking like an idiot.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cI bet. It would look pretty funny if they got wore out, and you didn\u2019t have a mark on ya.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cYou got it.\u201d
\n\u201cI\u2019ll give it a try Adam. But what if I ain\u2019t fast enough? What then?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cYou\u2019ll have to cross that bridge when you come to it. You\u2019ll either fight back or not. Just think ahead Joe, think of the consequences.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cConsequences meaning a sore rear end?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cMore than likely.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cGuess I got a lot to think about.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cGuess you do.\u201d<\/p>\n

Kissing his brother\u2019s hair, Adam set him back on the bed.<\/p>\n

\u201cHey Adam?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cYeah?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cThanks for coming up here. It means a lot to me. I just wanted you to know that.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cI had to be sure you were alright. I remember how I felt after a session with Pa.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cWell, if you ever get a whippin, I\u2019ll come up and check on you.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cThank you little brother. I\u2019d appreciate that.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cOh and Adam. If you ever need to talk, you know about anything. I\u2019ll be here for ya.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cGood to know Joe. Why don\u2019t you get washed up for supper. Don\u2019t want Hop Sing after us do we?\u201d<\/p>\n

Adam winked at his brother as he walked out of the room, closing the door silently behind him. Joe smiled, feeling better about the situation, knowing that no matter what his family would always be behind him.<\/p>\n

\u201cIt\u2019s okay Adam. I understand now. I\u2019m sorry I made you cry. Please, don\u2019t cry anymore brother.\u201d Joe said, his tears falling into his brother\u2019s black curls.
\nHe felt his brother struggling to regain control over his emotions, and Joe rubbed circles on his back, rocking him slowly. He met the eyes of his father and Hoss as they entered the barn. Taking in the scene in front of them the family formed a protective circle, surrounding the one they loved, but would have to let go.<\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019ll write to you as soon as I arrive. Make sure you write back.\u201d Adam said as he handed the last of his luggage to the stage driver.<\/p>\n

\u201cWe\u2019ll write, don\u2019t you worry about that. You just get yourself there in one piece.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cI will Pa. It\u2019s not the first time I\u2019ve made this trip. Everything will be fine.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cStage is ready. Let\u2019s move out.\u201d The driver said rushing his only passenger along.<\/p>\n

\u201cMind if I ride with you up top? I could use the company.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cSure thing son.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cWell, bye Pa, Hoss, Joe. Tell Hop Sing thanks for the cookies.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cWe will son.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cBye Adam, you take care now. Come back soon brother.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cYeah, won\u2019t be the same without my Yankee Granite Head brother looking over my shoulder all the time.\u201d<\/p>\n

Adam hugged each brother, then his father before jumping up to sit with the driver.<\/p>\n

\u201cI love you.\u201d He said as the stage pulled away.<\/p>\n

\u201cWe love you too.\u201d Ben replied as his son rode out of sight.<\/p>\n

\u201cYou think he\u2019ll come back Pa?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cHe\u2019ll come back.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cHow can you be sure? What if he makes a new life out there?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cI can\u2019t say when boys, but I know my son. He will be back.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cHe promised me Joe. We may have been kids, but he promised me. Adam ain\u2019t one to break a promise.\u201d Hoss said reliving that Christmas memory once again.<\/p>\n

\u201cI pray your right Hoss.\u201d Joe said reliving memories of his own.<\/p>\n

Chapter 12<\/p>\n

After a long journey, Adam stepped off the last stage and stretched his legs. He had memorized the address, but had no idea which way to head.<\/p>\n

\u201cExcuse me sir. Could you direct me to Park Avenue?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cDown three streets and to your right.\u201d The man said gruffly as he shrugged off the man dressed in cowboy attire, a gun hung at his hip.<\/p>\n

\u201cThank you.\u201d He said to the man\u2019s back as he walked briskly away.<\/p>\n

Following the man\u2019s directions, he quickly arrived at his destination. The apartment building was four stories high, made completely of brick. Admiring the building, he stood in front of the door.<\/p>\n

\u201cADAM!\u201d<\/p>\n

He heard a scream. The sound startled him, causing him to take a step back.<\/p>\n

\u201cIT\u2019S YOU! IT\u2019S YOU! I KNEW YOU\u2019D COME. OH ADAM, I MISSED YOUSO MUCH!\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cJudy, it\u2019s you?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cOf course, who else would it be. When did you get here? You have to come in! Jimmy will be so pleased to see you!\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cI can see you haven\u2019t changed much!\u201d Adam laughed as Judy grabbed his hands and led him quickly inside.<\/p>\n

\u201cWhich apartment is yours?\u201d Adam asked as she dragged him down the hallway.<\/p>\n

\u201cActually, Jimmy bought the building. We decided to live on the main floor. We are renovating the rest of the building. Jimmy wants to turn the upstairs into offices to support his business.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cOh, what business?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cContracting of course. He and his company have built most of the building in this area. His dream is to build an area of buildings as a square. He thinks it would become a popular spot, a place where people will spend most of their time.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cTime Square?\u201d Adam laughed, waiting as she struggled with the door in her excitement.<\/p>\n

\u201cYou know, that name may just catch on. It will be quite a while before he is able to finish that dream. It may be up to James Jr.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019d imagine so. Maybe even up to the great grandkids don\u2019t ya think?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cAdam really! Me a great grandmother?\u201d Judy laughed picturing herself as an old lady with white hair.<\/p>\n

\u201cLooks to me like you\u2019re already working on it. Are those gray hairs I see. Soon enough you\u2019ll look like by father.\u201d<\/p>\n

Adam laughed and backed away as Judy came towards him, pinchers ready.<\/p>\n

\u201cKidding, just kidding. Put those things away!\u201d He yelled as he received one pinch after another.<\/p>\n

\u201cJUDY, IS THAT YOU? COULD YOU COME IN HERE PLEASE? YOUR SON NEEDS YOU!\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cOh no, what has the little guy done now. He only becomes my son when there is trouble. \u201cCOMING JIMMY!\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cHere, take him. He just threw up all over the front of me, and I have a meeting down town in thirty minutes.\u201d Jimmy said unbuttoning his shirt as he entered the hallway.<\/p>\n

\u201cDon\u2019t you know it is impolite to walk around without being properly dressed in front of company?\u201d Adam joked as his friend had not yet noticed him.<\/p>\n

\u201cADAM! YOU CAME!\u201d Jimmy shouted as he dropped his shirt to the floor walking towards his friend. \u201cWhen did you get here?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cJust now, I ran into Judy outside.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019m so glad you came. You never wrote back, I thought maybe you had forgotten about us!\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cNow how could I forget you. It\u2019s just been a rough year, I made it as soon as I could.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019m sorry you\u2019ve had a rough time. Has there been trouble back home?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cYou could say that. This is just the first I could get away.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cAaahhh, I have a stupid meeting. I have to go. Promise when I get back, we\u2019ll go out on the town. I want to show you my work.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cI would love that.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cGood! JUDY I HAVE TO GO! SHOW ADAM HIS ROOM PLEASE!\u201d Jimmy said heading towards the door.<\/p>\n

\u201cUh Jimmy?\u201d<\/p>\n

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

\u201cYour shirt.\u201d Adam said laughing as his friend was about to exit the house bare chested.\u201d<\/p>\n

Jimmy laughed as Judy approached shirt and child in hand.<\/p>\n

\u201cOne of these days, I\u2019m gonna make it out of here in the nude!\u201d Jimmy laughed quickly buttoning his shirt.<\/p>\n

\u201cLet\u2019s just hope it\u2019s not during my stay.\u201d Adam laughed as his friend escaped out the door.<\/p>\n

\u201cPapa!\u201d The one year old yelled as his father left the house.<\/p>\n

\u201cPapa has a meeting James, he\u2019ll be back soon.\u201d Judy cooed, giving her child a kiss.<\/p>\n

\u201cSo this is James? I guess I was expecting an infant. Time stands still for me sometimes. I knew it would have taken a few months to receive you letter, and a few months before I could make it out here. I guess I just didn\u2019t imagine the little one ageing as well.\u201d Adam smiled as the child looked up at him.<\/p>\n

\u201cYes, he is a year old now. We planned on doing his christening at the end of the month. How long can you stay?\u201d She asked handing the child to Adam.<\/p>\n

\u201cAs long as I should.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cWell, if it were up to me, that would be forever. I\u2019ve missed you so much. I can\u2019t believe it\u2019s been six years since I\u2019ve seen you.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cI know, we\u2019ve changed a lot haven\u2019t we. Jimmy especially, he always had such a young look about him. I nearly didn\u2019t recognize him.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cHe\u2019s aged well hasn\u2019t he. So have you. What happened to those lanky arms and legs?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cWhat happened to those tiny bosoms?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cADAM STODDARD CARTWRIGHT! YOU HAVEN\u2019T CHANGED ONE BIT!\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cDown! Down!\u201d James cried as he struggled from the strangers grasp.<\/p>\n

Adam relented and put his protection down. Standing up, he received a sharp smack to the back of the head. Rubbing the back of his head, he smiled slyly at his best friend who stood before him. Looking down at the child, he whispered.
\n\u201cTraitor.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cSo he\u2019s walking already I see.\u201d Adam laughed as the little one took wobbly steps forward.<\/p>\n

\u201cHe\u2019s still a little of balance. But he\u2019s stubborn as a mule. He must have gotten that trait from his father!\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cSure, there\u2019s not a stubborn streak in you! I remember fighting tooth and nail with you about jumping off your father\u2019s roof with a sheet. You believed that sheet would blow open, and you would sail down onto that hay. I had to literally drag you off that roof. Then, the second my back was turned you were at it again. That stubborn streak of your\u2019s got me into trouble more than once.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cWell, it would have worked if there would have been more wind. Besides, I can\u2019t help it if you\u2019re a sucker for these blue eyes.\u201d She said batting her eyes playfully at him.<\/p>\n

\u201cYou haven\u2019t changed one bit. How does Jimmy put up with you?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cI have my ways. Grab James, and I\u2019ll show you to your room.\u201d<\/p>\n

Walking down the long hallway, they stopped at the last door on the right. This is an apartment all your own. Stay as long as you like. I need to give this little one a bath if we\u2019re going out on the town, and I\u2019m sure you could use a bit of a rest.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cI could thank you. Did you say James is coming with us this evening?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cOf course. James loves to walk the city. You\u2019ll be surprised at how well behaved he is. He hardly ever puts up a fuss.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cHuh, I\u2019m just picturing Little Joe at his age. Couldn\u2019t even take him to Virginia City, I can\u2019t imagine what he would of done in a city this size!\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cHe would have painted the town red, that\u2019s for sure. Nope, this little on is destined to be a scholar. Just like his father.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cAnd his mother remember. It\u2019s not common for a woman to graduate from college at all, let alone to get a job straight off for such a well known company. Are you still working by the way?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cYes, James stays with a sitter during the day. You\u2019ll meet her tomorrow, I wish I\u2019d known you were coming, I would have asked for some time off.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cNo need for a sitter Judy, I\u2019ll watch the little fella. I\u2019ll be here anyway. Why don\u2019t you give her a week\u2019s vacation?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cOh Adam, are you sure? I don\u2019t want to impose. You\u2019re a guest here.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cI offered Judy, besides, I could use the company.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cWell, let\u2019s get through the night, and see if you still feel the same in the morning.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cSounds fair.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cYou get settled in. I\u2019m going to get this one in the tub.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cAlright, I\u2019ll see you in a while.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cThanks so much for coming Adam. I can hardly believe you\u2019re here!\u201d<\/p>\n

Adam smiled his dimpled smile as Judy closed the door behind her. Looking around his rather lavish apartment, for the first time, Adam felt free.<\/p>\n

\u201cWell, this is it. This is my first building. I went with the European theme. What do you think?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cIt\u2019s beautiful Jimmy. I had no idea you had so much talent.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cWell thanks for the boost of self confidence friend.\u201d
\n\u201cYou know what I meant. How long did it take you to construct it?\u2019<\/p>\n

\u201cOh about seven months. There were so many details, I didn\u2019t want to rush it.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cWell you have certainly out done any of my creations.\u201d Adam stared at the intricate details on the building in front of him.<\/p>\n

\u201cI wanted to speak with you about that. I know you\u2019re staying for a while, as long as we\u2019ll have you anyway.\u201d Jimmy winked as Adam gave him a slight shove. \u201cSo, how about you and I work on a project together. You do have to earn your keep.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cI don\u2019t know if I could ever match your skill Jimmy, I may just be in the way.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cHa! You were always modest. You know in school you topped everyone of my projects. Given the opportunity and supplies, I think you will build something magnificent. If we do it together, I can put my name on it and take all the credit.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cSo, you\u2019re basically using me to get ahead, reminds me of our days in Harvard sure enough!\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cYou two! You know, you are setting a bad example for my son.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cWell your son will just have to turn his ears off now won\u2019t he.\u201d Jimmy laughed playfully covering his son\u2019s ears, causing him to burst into baby laughter.<\/p>\n

Adam smiled at the sound. It had been years since he had heard such a sound.<\/p>\n

\u201cCan I take him Ma?\u201d Thirteen year old Adam asked as he watched his brother try to squirm free from her arms.<\/p>\n

\u201cPlease, I need a break. He\u2019s got so much energy, I can hardly keep up with him anymore.\u201d<\/p>\n

Taking his baby brother from his step mother\u2019s arms he lifted Joe high in the air.<\/p>\n

\u201cLook little Joe, you\u2019re a bird!\u201d He said as he spun his brother in a circle, getting a squeal of laughter.<\/p>\n

\u201cHosie, HOSIE!\u201d Joe cried with delight as his brother swooped him down.<\/p>\n

\u201cHorsey huh. Okay ready?\u201d Adam asked carefully putting Joe on his shoulders, holding him tightly.<\/p>\n

He galloped around the house with the baby on his shoulders. Joe squealed with laughter as his little fingers grabbed his brother\u2019s hair. Stopping, Adam took his hands out of his hair, and wrapped them gently in his own.<\/p>\n

\u201cSay giddy up Joe, giddy up!\u201d Adam laughed as he bounced around some more.<\/p>\n

\u201cDiddy dup Babam! Diddy dup!\u201d Joe cried with laughter, enjoying the time he had with his oldest brother.<\/p>\n

\u201cWhere we\u2019re you buddy, you were miles away!\u201d Jimmy laughed as he saw Adam\u2019s eyes come back in to focus.<\/p>\n

\u201cGuess I was wool gathering. I was remembering when Little Joe used to laugh like that.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cYou miss \u2018em already huh. I\u2019m sure they miss you too.\u201d Judy answered, sliding her arm through her friends, James balanced on her hip.<\/p>\n

\u201cWe better head back, it\u2019s going to be dark soon and we all have to get up early in the morning. Judy mentioned you taking James for the day.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cIf you don\u2019t mind. I could defiantly use the company. I thought maybe he could show me around town.\u201d Adam laughed as James pointed at the many objects around the street.<\/p>\n

\u201cThat he could. I think if we let him, he would lead us back home. I swear that boy pays more attention to detail than I ever could.\u201d Jimmy laughed as he heard his wife answer his son\u2019s question\u2019s as he pointed at certain objects.<\/p>\n

\u201cWell, we\u2019ll do that then.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cYou\u2019re already up? I thought I\u2019d have to come in here and shake you awake. I forgot you ranchers are early risers.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cUp with the chicken\u2019s as Hop Sing always said.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cWell, Judy is almost ready to go, James awaits your company. Loretta nearly died when I gave her a weeks paid vacation.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cI bet she did. Judy is leaving the instruction\u2019s then.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cSure is, she scrawled out a list. I\u2019m sure you won\u2019t have any trouble.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cAlright. Lead the way.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cBye baby, I love you. You behave well for Uncle Adam.\u201d Judy said scurrying out the door after going over the instructions with Adam.<\/p>\n

\u201cB-B!\u201d James laughed as he waved his mother out the door.<\/p>\n

He looked up at the man in black who now held him in his arms. He smiled brightly, and reached out a small hand to touch the man\u2019s cheek.<\/p>\n

\u201cAdam.\u201d He said hoping the child would say his name.<\/p>\n

\u201cB-Bam!\u201d Came the reply.<\/p>\n

\u201cHey, that\u2019s what Joe used to call me. What do you say we get you fed and go out on the town?\u201d He asked as the child babbled in response.<\/p>\n

\u201cYou certainly are a good eater. You still hungry?\u201d Adam asked as James inhaled his final bite of Oatmeal.<\/p>\n

\u201cM-M!\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cIs that more? You saying more?\u201d<\/p>\n

The baby clapped his hands, and Adam rose to spoon some more oatmeal into the child\u2019s bowl.<\/p>\n

\u201cB-Bam!\u201d He cried as he shoved another messy spoonful into his mouth.
\n\u201cCan I have a bite?\u201d Adam asked leaning towards the messy smiling face.<\/p>\n

Jimmy dipped his spoon again and turned it towards his caretaker. Bringing the spoon towards Adam\u2019s open mouth, he squealed and quickly turned his spoon back towards his own mouth.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cYou tricked me! Just like your parents aren\u2019t you. All finished now?\u201d Adam asked as Jimmy lay his spoon on the tray.<\/p>\n

\u201cLet\u2019s get you cleaned up. Then you can show me around.\u201d<\/p>\n

Dressing James was easier than Adam imagined it to be. The child waited patiently as he fumbled with the outfit he had picked out. Lifting onto his shoulder\u2019s, Adam headed out the door. James squealed in delight as Adam ducked through the door frames. The street was busy, carriages passing by at a somewhat alarming rate. The sidewalks were packed also, everyone hustling for their destinations. James bounced up and down happily, while he watched the people rush by.<\/p>\n

\u201cHow about the park? I\u2019ve heard that it is quite the sight.\u201d Adam said looking up at the bouncing baby.<\/p>\n

Arriving to the park, he brought the child down beside him. \u201cYou wanna walk?\u201d He asked as they strolled through the wide open grass.<\/p>\n

James toddled about, falling occasionally but popping right back up. He checked often to make sure Adam was near him as they trekked through the plush green grass.<\/p>\n

\u201cPity!\u201d James said as he came to a flowering bush.<\/p>\n

\u201cThose are called lilacs little buddy. They smell nice don\u2019t they?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cPity! M-Ma.\u201d You want one for your momma?\u201d<\/p>\n

James reached out and pulled hard on one of the flowers. The pedals came off in his hand. Frustrated he looked to Adam, then again reached for the bush.<\/p>\n

\u201cGentle, like this.\u201d Adam said helping the little one pull off a fresh flower. He received a bright smile in return. James turned tired eyes towards Adam as they\u2019re journey continued.<\/p>\n

\u201cGetting tired little one. How about we rest under that tree over there?\u201d He said picking up the baby and patting his back.<\/p>\n

They sat under the tree, Jimmy in Adam\u2019s lap with his head resting in the crook of his neck. Quiet breaths came shortly after as they both fell to sleep.<\/p>\n

Adam jerked awake as he felt hands move around his neck. He began to jump up when he realized it was James, trying to get his attention.<\/p>\n

\u201cYou awake now. Must have dozed of myself. Thanks for waking me up buddy.\u201d<\/p>\n

Adam said looking towards the sun to figure the time. \u201cWe must of slept away the
\nentire afternoon. We better be heading back. Your mom will kill me if we\u2019re not back by the time she gets home. We\u2019ll have to hurry!\u201d<\/p>\n

Adam and James arrived home before Judy, and began a game of blocks. Adam would stack them up tall, and James would knock them down. Each time James would say \u201cBoom a!\u201d The game continued until Judy walked through the door.<\/p>\n

\u201cThere\u2019s my little man!\u201d She cried rushing towards the two.<\/p>\n

\u201cWell now, I wouldn\u2019t say I was little. But yes, I am a man.\u201d Adam teased as she scooped James into her arms.<\/p>\n

\u201cMan huh? That\u2019s a bit of a stretch!\u201d She laughed backing away from him.<\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019ll show you stretch!\u201d Adam charged, reaching out for her. He chased her around the large room, James squealing in delight.<\/p>\n

\u201cWhat\u2019s going on in here? Need a little help my friend?\u201d Jimmy laughed walking in to the chaos.<\/p>\n

\u201cShe\u2019s a lot faster than she used to be. Grab her!\u201d Adam said trying to corner her next to the couch.<\/p>\n

James lunged over the couch, stepping on the couchins on his way. He got a hold of her shoulder\u2019s and held her tight.<\/p>\n

\u201cPapa!\u201d James laughed as he spun them towards him.<\/p>\n

\u201cShe need a good wallopin?\u201d Jimmy laughed as he held his wife still.<\/p>\n

\u201cDon\u2019t you dare James Ryan King!\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cDon\u2019t I dare what?\u201d He laughed as he playfully swatted her bottom.<\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019ll get you for that! Get papa James!\u201d She said pushing her son towards his father.<\/p>\n

James put his hands on each side of his father\u2019s face and pushed his cheeks together, causing him to make a fish face. Jimmy returned kissing sounds as his son smiled in delight.<\/p>\n

Adam stood watching. He knew how much in love this family was, and he was proud to feel a part of it.<\/p>\n

\u201cSo did you two have a good day?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cGreat. You\u2019re right, he\u2019s no trouble at all.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cYeah, he\u2019s just like a little adult. Most of the time. But when you cross him, look out! He can sure throw a fit.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cGot that from his mother I suppose.\u201d Adam laughed remembering the temper Judy had as a child.<\/p>\n

\u201cMust be! I could never get away with that as a child. My father instilled in me at a young age that my bottom would suffer from such behavior.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cMine too. Judy hardly ever caught trouble for it. Must be because she was a girl.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cWell, I can\u2019t bring myself to spank James. Usually I just put him in his crib and let him cry it out.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cI understand. I remember when Joe was about four, Marie and Pa had gone overnight to Sacramento. I asked Joe to get ready for bed, he threw the biggest fit I had ever seen. When I tried to coax him down he kicked my shin. I turned him over my knee. To this day, I still see those crocodile tears. I never laid a hand on him like that again. Sure, we had some fights as adults, may result in a black eye or two, but I could never spank him again. I felt terrible for days. I don\u2019t know how my Pa did it.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cYeah, all he has to do is turn those pretty blue eyes on me and I\u2019m putty in his hands. I hope he doesn\u2019t figure that out too soon.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cGood thing he\u2019s such a sweet child. Maybe he won\u2019t give you too much trouble growing up.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cI hope so. You find anyone you want to spend your life with yet?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cNot yet.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cGuess not. If you had, you wouldn\u2019t be here. Sorry, stupid question.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cIt\u2019s alright. I\u2019ve had a few relationships, but something always seems to happen. I don\u2019t know, I\u2019ve kinda given up looking.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cLove does come when you least expect it they say. Look at me and Judy. I always pictured you and she together. I\u2019ll never understand how I got so lucky.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cIt\u2019s the money. She married you for the money.\u201d Adam said as he watched Judy walk into the room.<\/p>\n

\u201cWHY YOU DIRTY ROTTEN\u2026\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cJudy! The baby!\u201d Jimmy interrupted laughing at Adam\u2019s joke.<\/p>\n

\u201cOOOOHHHH, one of these days Adam Cartwright!\u201d She replied scowling at him.<\/p>\n

\u201cWell, what else would you see in him? It definitely isn\u2019t his looks or charm.\u201d Adam laughed again backing towards the door.<\/p>\n

\u201cAlright, he asked for it! Get him!\u201d Jimmy said charging towards his friend as the door slammed shut.<\/p>\n

Chapter 13<\/p>\n

Dear Pa,<\/p>\n

I arrived safely about a week ago. I\u2019m sure it\u2019s taken at least a month for this letter to arrive, and I hope you haven\u2019t worried too much. I\u2019m staying with Jimmy and Judy in the building they own. Jimmy bought and apartment building to renovate into offices to support his business. He is an architect, designing buildings for different companies around the area. He even is designing a few buildings back in Boston. He said he has to go out there in about a month. He has made me a business partner, so I will be joining him for the trip. Going back to Boston with he and Judy will be a trip down memory lane. Though baby James might make the memories not so bold.<\/p>\n

You would love James Pa. He is quite and well behaved. He studies everything around him, but babbles constantly. He can only say a few words, but he calls me B-Bam, just like Little Joe used to. I watch him during the days when Judy and Jimmy work. I really enjoy having him around. Though he did throw quite the tantrum yesterday when I was distracted from building blocks with him. Someone was at the door, and he must not have wanted me to get up and answer it. He screamed louder than anything I\u2019ve ever heard. Didn\u2019t last long though. Do you remember how Joe would go on and on?<\/p>\n

I\u2019m glad to let you know that I have not had an episode since I arrived here. Actually things are going quite well. I know it\u2019s only been a week, but that\u2019s the longest I\u2019ve gone without remembering, if that\u2019s what you call it. I hope all is well at the ranch. I still feel bad about leaving you with all the work.<\/p>\n

I received some bad news recently, I am not sure if you have received the letter yet. Grandfather Stoddard passed away a few weeks before I arrived. He left me his business in his will. I\u2019m thinking of selling Pa. What do you think? I just don\u2019t feel that is the right path for me. He gave his blessing for me to do with it as I please.<\/p>\n

Jimmy is helping me to clear out his estate. He designated most of his belongings to some of his long time friends. It will all be finalized when we go out there next month. I wish I could have seen him one last time. He was a remarkable person Pa, and I know we will both miss him greatly.<\/p>\n

I miss you Pa. Remember that, and think of me often as I do you.<\/p>\n

Love,
\nAdam<\/p>\n

Dear Hoss,<\/p>\n

Hey big brother! Thought I\u2019d write you separate from Pa. I remember you telling me that while I was away at college he would make you each read your letters aloud. Is he still doing that?<\/p>\n

You would love New York Hoss. There is a zoo here. I haven\u2019t seen it yet, but I hear there are all kinds of animals. It\u2019s not peaceful here however, people are constantly moving. It is a big change from the quite surroundings of the Ponderosa.<\/p>\n

Judy told me to tell you hello. She said that you have competition here in New York. Little James can eat as much as you already, and he\u2019s only a year old. You would be proud brother. Even I can\u2019t believe how much he eats.<\/p>\n

Keep watch over Joe for me. Don\u2019t let him get in too much trouble. Also, give Sport a good rub down for me. I sent along a present for each of you. I hope they arrive together. Let me know what you think.<\/p>\n

Love always,
\nAdam<\/p>\n

Dear Joe,<\/p>\n

Hey little buddy. How are you doing? I miss you more and more each day, but I want you to know I am happy here. It\u2019s already been a week, and time is just seeming to fly by. I know your birthday\u2019s coming up and I\u2019m sorry I won\u2019t be there for it. I sent an extra present along for you, it\u2019s marked birthday. Don\u2019t you dare open it before hand!<\/p>\n

I wish you and I could come out here together one day. There is so much I would like for you to see. There is a bar down here that is bigger than the ranch house. It is three levels high. Each floor has it\u2019s own theme. There is even a western theme on the top level. You wouldn\u2019t believe the outfits these people wear. Jimmy and Judy give me a hard time about it. They ask me why I don\u2019t dress that way. There\u2019s also a horse farm just outside of the city limit. I didn\u2019t have time to ask questions, but this breed of horse is something I have never seen before. I thought of you the second those horses came into view! And even though I know you wouldn\u2019t admit it, there is a library here that puts all other\u2019s to shame. You could find books on any subject. One of these days little brother you and I will paint the town.
\nI hope you enjoy your gifts! Don\u2019t give Pa too much trouble.<\/p>\n

Thinking of you every day,
\nLove
\nAdam<\/p>\n

\u201cLook Pa, these here letters came from New York. It\u2019s about time older brother got word to us. It\u2019s been a month since he\u2019s been gone.\u201d Hoss said laying the mail in front of his father. \u201cSent presents too. Joe got more \u2018n one.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cLet me see that!\u201d Joe said rushing to his brothers side.<\/p>\n

\u201cSlow down now. Let\u2019s read what your brother has to say first. Hoss, why don\u2019t you start.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cAwe Pa, do I have to read it out loud. What if there\u2019s private stuff in there!\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cThen Adam will let us know. If you\u2019d like to wait, Little Joe can go first.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cNo, I\u2019ll go first Pa. But if it\u2019s private like, I\u2019ll stop.\u201d Hoss said eagerly tearing open his letter.<\/p>\n

The men listened as each read their letters aloud. Hoss laughed when Adam asked if their father still made them do so. Joe bounced with anticipation as each waited to open their gifts.<\/p>\n

\u201cWhat\u2019s he mean I can\u2019t open this one till my birthday! I can\u2019t wait that long.\u201d Joe whined as his father took the birthday gift for safe keeping.<\/p>\n

Hoss opened a whittling kit. There were instructions on how to use the new style equipment that was enclosed. Joe opened a left handed gun belt. It was embroidered leather, fitting him just right. Ben opened his gift, his eyes welling with tears as he picked up the odd baggie.<\/p>\n

\u201cWhat is it Pa?\u201d Hoss asked examining the gift closely.<\/p>\n

\u201cIt looks like a bag of rocks.\u201d Joe said staring into the open bag.<\/p>\n

He watched his son scurry down the lane in front of them. They had been traveling for two years now, his son\u2019s life consisting of moving about.<\/p>\n

\u201cNot too far Adam!\u201d Ben chided as his four year old broke into a run.<\/p>\n

\u201cI see one Pa! We ain\u2019t got none like it.\u201d He shouted back, stopping in the middle of the road.<\/p>\n

\u201cWell, pick it up then. We\u2019ll add it to our collection. Now we have a rock from each town right.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cYeah, and lookie Pa. This one\u2019s kinda greenish colored.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cThat\u2019s moss Adam. That rock must have been sitting here a long time.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cWow! Maybe it was here when there was caveman\u2019s pa!\u201d<\/p>\n

Ben laughed, he had recently got into a discussion with Adam about who had originally lived on this land, even before the Indians.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cMaybe. You have the bag with you son?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cNo, it\u2019s in the wagon. I\u2019s afraid I\u2019d lose it.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cGood thinking. Why don\u2019t you climb in and put it away. As a matter of fact, it\u2019s probably about time you rest a bit.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cAwe, I don\u2019t need a nap Pa. I\u2019m not even tired.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cAdam!\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cYes sir. But make sure you pick up a rock if we gets to another town before you lets me wake up!\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cOf course son. Sleep well.\u201d<\/p>\n

He watched as his son climbed into the wagon. Adam had begun fighting him over taking naps just recently, but today went well. Usually his boy could be much more stubborn.<\/p>\n

\u201cPA!\u201d Adam yelled as he nestled under the covers.<\/p>\n

\u201cWhat is it?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cWhen I grow up, I\u2019m gonna collect so many rocks we could make a mountain. Bet I\u2019ll bring home rocks from Australia where those roo\u2019s live. Then we\u2019ll go to Egypt and get em from those gyptions.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cThat sounds nice son. You\u2019ll be traveling a long way to get those.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cNot me Pa! US!\u201d Adam shouted getting excited over the thought of the journey\u2019s they would take together.<\/p>\n

\u201cTime to sleep son.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cAlright, I\u2019ll dream about us finding all them rocks. Love you Pa.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cLove you sweet heart.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cWhy would older brother send you a bag of rocks. He attached a note that said, \u201cone from each town.\u201d Joe said as he held the small card in his hands.<\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019ll show you. Here, I have it in my desk.\u201d Ben said opening the drawer that contained the keepsakes of his son\u2019s. His son\u2019s watched in awe as memories from their childhood piled out of that drawer, then listened intently as their father told the story of he and Adam\u2019s travels West.<\/p>\n

Chapter 14<\/p>\n

\u201cAll packed then? The buggy\u2019s pulling out in five minutes.\u201d Jimmy said standing in front of his wife and best friend.<\/p>\n

\u201cWell driver, I think you may be pulling out alone unless you give me a hand with your son!\u201d Judy said handing James over to his father.<\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019ll take him. We won\u2019t leave till next fall by the time you two get your act together.\u201d Adam said gruffly as he tapped his foot in front of the door.<\/p>\n

\u201cPatience Adam. I hope your mood improves before I\u2019m stuck with you for this journey.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cJames and I will wait outside.\u201d He said putting his hat on James\u2019s head. It fell down over the child\u2019s eyes, and he lifted it up with is tiny fingers.<\/p>\n

\u201cB-Bam! Hat!\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cYes, B-Bam hat. You look quite handsome young fellow.\u201d Adam said as they stepped onto the sidewalk.<\/p>\n

They had been traveling for several hours when James decided he\u2019d tired of the journey. He sat in his mother\u2019s lap, across from Adam as he became frustrated.<\/p>\n

\u201cDown!\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cNot now honey. We are riding with Papa.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cDown!\u201d
\n\u201cNo baby, you can\u2019t get down.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cDOWN!\u201d He screamed as he tried to crawl of his mother\u2019s lap. \u201cB-BAM!\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cJames, that is enough. We will stop soon. You\u2019re screaming will get you no where.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cAAAAAAAAAAHHHHHHH! \u201c He screamed as his mother held him firmly in place.
\nThe two ignored him as he scowled out his displeasure. The fit didn\u2019t last long as he was soon fast asleep.<\/p>\n

\u201cPoor guy, this takes a lot out of him.\u201d Adam said as he rested his head against the wall of the wagon.<\/p>\n

\u201cSure it does. Remember how we felt after we traveled all that way. I was so envious that you and your father and Hoss stopped when you did. I had to keep going with the train all the way to California. I think it took me two months to just relax.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cYeah. It took me two months to be able to sleep without the rocking motion of that wagon. I spent seven years in it.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cThat\u2019s true. I didn\u2019t think of that. I only spent a year and a half with the train. That was bad enough. Remember all the trouble we caused?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cHow can I forget. You got me a lot of necessary talks. Some friend you were.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cI got my fair share of trouble also if you remember. I think it was your idea to swing off that tree limb into the water. It was freezing! I know your Pa told you to stay out of that water. And there you go, coaxing me to swing off that limb. I could of drowned! I got a spankin to boot. Some friend you were!\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cHey, I got my own bottom warmed for that one. You didn\u2019t have to tattle on me!\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cHah! Misery loves company.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cWell, it was your fault we got in trouble for playing doctor. I told you it wasn\u2019t right for a girl to see me in my underwear. You convinced me that that is how a real doctor would do it! I remember my father\u2019s face when he caught us. Still can\u2019t believe he spanked me right there in front of everybody, me in nothing but my underclothes!\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cCan\u2019t blame a girl for being curious.\u201d Judy laughed recalling how they had been caught more than once.<\/p>\n

\u201cYeah well, curiosity killed the cat!\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cAll right. Looks like we\u2019ll camp here for the night. Who\u2019s up for gathering the wood?\u201d Jimmy asked waking his sleeping passengers in the cabin.<\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019ll get it.\u201d Adam said jumping down.<\/p>\n

\u201cB-Bam!\u201d James cried reaching out to him.<\/p>\n

\u201cNo little man. You\u2019re gonna stay with me. I haven\u2019t seen you all day.\u201d James said picking his son up high over his head.<\/p>\n

\u201cFwy!\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cYou wanna fly?\u201d<\/p>\n

James clapped his hands together in response. Grinning at Adam as he sailed through the air.<\/p>\n

\u201cGet up Cartwright! I didn\u2019t give you permission to lie down!\u201d Carter said as he placed a kick in Adam\u2019s already broken ribs.<\/p>\n

\u201cCan\u2019t.\u201d Adam panted, praying that more kicks would not follow.<\/p>\n

\u201cYou\u2019ll do as I say! Get yourself up off that ground and start walking. We want to make it over that ridge by nightfall. If we don\u2019t make it, there\u2019ll be hell to pay.\u201d<\/p>\n

Adam\u2019s body shuddered, causing his broken ribs and hands to scream out in pain. He fought the nausea that had risen within him, but had no strength left to fight. Having been unfed for nearly a week he dry heaved repeatedly until his body succumbed once again to unconsciousness.
\n\u201cI don\u2019t think he\u2019s gonna make it much longer boss. We should probably think about sending him home.\u201d Carter said smiling as the man\u2019s body was racked with torture.<\/p>\n

\u201cI think we can keep him around for a few more days. Just give him some water. He\u2019ll make it alright.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cI don\u2019t think so Cain, he\u2019s got fever. His hand is becoming infected cause the bone ain\u2019t been set. I think Carter\u2019s right. It\u2019s time to end this.\u201d Roger said trying to get some water into their captor.<\/p>\n

\u201cYeah, he ain\u2019t no good to me any more. He ain\u2019t been able to perform in months.\u201d Suzie said running her hands up and down Cain\u2019s chest.<\/p>\n

\u201cCan\u2019t get this water into him boss. If you want his folks to watch him die, now\u2019s the time to get him home. We can tie him to the horse, make it there by morning.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cSure wish we had more time. I haven\u2019t felt this good in I don\u2019t know how long.\u201d Cain said delivering another sharp kick to the unconscious man. \u201cGive me that water. I\u2019ll get it in him if I have to cut his throat wide open!\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cNah, it won\u2019t work. Look at him, he\u2019s barely breathing. It\u2019s over Cain.\u201d Carter said watching Roger fight a losing battle with the water.<\/p>\n

\u201cAlright, but tie him up good and tight. Mine as well make this ride as uncomfortable for him as possible.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cHelp me with him Carter. Suzie grab his hat will ya?\u201d Roger said lifting the dead weight of the man they despised.<\/p>\n

\u201cPa?\u201d Adam said in a quiet whisper, lost in a dream of his life back home.<\/p>\n

\u201cSoon boy, soon.\u201d David said speaking up for the first time.<\/p>\n

Adam woke, his clothes drenched in sweat despite the chilly morning air. Rolling over he stared at the back of his best friend since childhood. He found comfort there, yet a feeling of sadness that their relationship as a couple did not pan out. Breathing deeply to still his trembling body he closed his eyes to clear his thoughts. Hearing movement near him he saw Jimmy get up. Dawn was about to break, but he thought they would have slept a few hours yet. Stretching, Jimmy made his way towards the woods outlining their campsite. Adam awaited his return, not being able to relax until his friend arrived back to camp unscathed. The wait wasn\u2019t long, and soon Jimmy stood next to him stirring the fire.<\/p>\n

\u201cYou\u2019re up early.\u201d Adam whispered startling his friend.<\/p>\n

\u201cNature calls brother. What are you doing up already. This is even early for you.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cWell, I have trouble sleeping sometimes. I may have drifted off again if you hadn\u2019t been up bugging me.\u201d Adam\u2019s smile turned into a yawn.<\/p>\n

\u201cWhat kind of trouble? The ground ain\u2019t soft enough for ya?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cJust a few memories invading my sleep, that\u2019s all.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cMemories huh? What about?\u201d<\/p>\n

Adam remained silent as he studied his friend. He hadn\u2019t talked about his kidnapping to anyone. Not really anyway. His night terrors had sometimes led to his time there being revealed, but he had never openly spoke of the torture he had gone through.<\/p>\n

\u201cAdam? What\u2019s wrong? Your scaring me buddy, the look on your face\u2026\u2026\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cIt\u2019s hard to talk about. I don\u2019t know if I\u2019m ready.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cSometimes it helps to talk. Your shaking Adam, tell me what\u2019s wrong, you could always tell me anything.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cI was kidnapped about a year and a half ago. They had me for about eight months. I don\u2019t know, I guess sometimes it just catches up with me.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cKidnapped. Why\u2019d they do that? Who was it?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cJust a man seeking revenge. He blamed his brother\u2019s death on me. He made sure I paid for it. Hell, sometimes I still pay for it. I can\u2019t seem to move forward some days. Other days, I feel fine. I don\u2019t even think about it.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cHow do you get through it? Does your family help, if so then why\u2019d you leave?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cThey try to help, but really there\u2019s nothing they can do. Really I needed a change of surroundings. Being here with you, Judy and James has been great. Actually, this is the first time I have thought about those months in a long time.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cGood. Maybe you\u2019ll stay a bit longer than you planned. I know you wanted to sail like your father, but I think you would be put to better use working for me in the architecture business.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cRight, you just want to use me for free labor. I don\u2019t know Jimmy. Once we get this job done in Boston, and I settle Grandfather\u2019s estate, I may just head for the high sea.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cWell I hope not, and Judy hopes not. It\u2019s like old times with you here. We\u2019re reliving our youth.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cI didn\u2019t know we were no longer youthful! Seems to me little James has us all beat when it comes to maturity.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cHa! You got me there. C\u2019mon, we\u2019re up, let\u2019s catch some fish.\u201d<\/p>\n

Chapter 15<\/p>\n

\u201cLook there, that\u2019s that old haunted building we had the s\u00e9ance in. Remember how you reacted, thinking the spirits were coming for us.\u201d Jimmy laughed as he pulled Judy to him, kissing her on top of the head.<\/p>\n

\u201cI was so angry with you three. Adam didn\u2019t even come to check on me!\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cNo, I was keeping another damsel in distress company.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cOh, right. Elizabeth. What ever happened to her?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cDon\u2019t know. We sort of lost touch.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cShe was a nice girl. I always liked her. I thought maybe you and she would hit it off. I was jealous at first, but once I realized I was falling for Jimmy, I hoped you two would become a couple.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cWell, it wouldn\u2019t have worked anyway. She was staying in Boston, I was going back to the Ponderosa. I couldn\u2019t ask her to leave.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cYou think she still lives here? After all these years?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cDon\u2019t know. The city\u2019s so big, probably would never bump into her anyway.\u201d Jimmy said allowing his son to walk next to him, holding his hand.<\/p>\n

\u201cHere\u2019s the hotel. You going on to your grandfather\u2019s place?\u201d Jimmy asked as they waited to check in.<\/p>\n

\u201cYes, I think I\u2019ll do that. I want to get it taken care of quickly, and I\u2019d like to see what it is I\u2019m dealing with.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cSounds good. We\u2019ll see you back here tonight.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cAdam! Do you need someone to go with you? Seeing that house is liable to be a bit hard on you.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cThanks Judy, but I think I would rather go it alone.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cOkay, but if you change your mind, you know where to find us.\u201d<\/p>\n

Adam made his way towards his grandfather\u2019s apartment. The trek there brought about a lot of memories, him during his college years. He stopped occasionally to let the memories wash over him, and knew he would have to write his father about his trip down memory lane. Coming to the building, he made his way down the long hallway. He had kept his key after all these years, and let himself in. A few things were missing from the apartment, items his grandfather had designated for other\u2019s. Walking to his old bedroom that used to belong to his mother, not a thing had been touched. Cobwebs covered the furniture, dust floated in the air as he removed the standing frame of the Durango type of his mother.<\/p>\n

Making his way to his grandfather\u2019s room, tears filled his eyes. Though he was only able to spend four years with his grandfather they had developed a tight bond. There were times they didn\u2019t get along, both stubborn as mules. But, there was a time when Adam was sick that brought them closer together.<\/p>\n

\u201cFeeling any better Sport? Still fighting that fever I see.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cCan I have some water please?\u201d Adam asked as he lay under layers upon layers of blankets. His body still shivering uncontrollably.<\/p>\n

\u201cOf course you can. Here, let me help you.\u201d<\/p>\n

Adam sipped the water that his grandfather held for him.<\/p>\n

\u201cYou know, your father wrote and told me about your battles with sickness. He said it didn\u2019t happen often, but when it did, it was serious. He was right about that son. The doctor has me worried it may turn into pneumonia.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cHope not. Some of Hop Sing\u2019s tea would be helpful right now.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cHop Sing. He\u2019s your families cook right?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cHe\u2019s more than our cook. Hop Sing has been like a second father to me. He always made sure to stuff us full of tea when we were sick, or worn out.\u201d<\/p>\n

Abel waited while Adam succumbed to a coughing fit. After a minute or so, he settled back into the pillows.<\/p>\n

\u201cYou know, your mother was the same way. She hardly ever caught sickness, but when she did, it took everything out of her.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cGrandpa, could you tell me about my mother. Pa could never really tell me much. We tried to talk about her a few times, but it always upset him. Eventually I just quit asking.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cYour mother. Yes, I can understand it would be hard for your father to speak of her. They were very much in love, and she was taken from us so soon. I can tell you that you look much like her. You have the same eyes, long lashes. Your smiles are the same, she loved your dimples. You had them right from birth. They say that newborns can\u2019t smile, but you did. She held you in her arms when you were only minutes old, and she swears you flashed those dimples at her. She loved you son.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cI wish I could have met her, talked with her. What was she like before she met Pa?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cOh, she was a handful. She was so curious about everything. When she was about seven years old, she had a friend named Jeremiah. She and Jeremiah would practically run the streets, no matter how much her mother threatened her to stay near the house. Once I found her eight miles outside of town. She and Jeremiah had followed the shore line until it had become impossible for any human being to follow. She said she wanted to know if the world was really round, thought she could walk to the end of the earth and prove Columbus wrong.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cDid she think she had made it? To the end of the Earth I mean?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cOh yes, she said that the world was obviously flat, because she could look out into the sea and see where the sky and earth met together. She was convinced once you reached the horizon, you could walk into the sky if you so choose. If not, you could sit on the edge of the ocean with your feet dangling over the edge.\u201d<\/p>\n

Adam remembered speaking with his grandfather for hours about his mother\u2019s life, all the way until she met his father. After that, the two never had another rift. They would just smile a knowing smile, and say, \u201cjust like your mother.\u201d<\/p>\n

Marking into memory what he needed to know, he made his way back outside. He headed towards the flower shop where Judy used to work, and saw it had been replaced with a book store. Going in, he was soon lost in the world of books that surrounded him. He was well into the chapter\u2019s of a book when someone brushed up against him.<\/p>\n

\u201cExcuse me.\u201d He called watching a woman stumble from her impact.<\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019m sorry. I didn\u2019t see you there.\u201d She said as she turned to face him.
\nHer face was beautiful, brown hair flowing down her shoulders and back. Her brown eyes sparkling, and her full lips smiling at him. He stared in disbelief, it couldn\u2019t be.<\/p>\n

\u201cElizabeth?\u201d He whispered, more of a statement than a question.<\/p>\n

She looked him over, realizing instantly that this was the man she had loved. He had the same curly raven hair, cut short. Those golden eye\u2019s reflecting in the sun light. He had grown into a man, his broad chest hidden behind the black shirt.<\/p>\n

\u201cAdam!\u201d She whispered back.<\/p>\n

Both stood unmoving, unsure that the person before them was truly who they thought.<\/p>\n

\u201cWhat are you doing here?\u201d She asked finally breaking the silence. \u201cI thought you went back home. I saw you leave on the train.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cI came back with Jimmy and Judy. We\u2019re working on a project together. I never thought\u2026\u2026\u2026\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019d see you again.\u201d She finished, looking down shyly.<\/p>\n

\u201cDo you live here still, or are you just visiting?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cI live here. I was actually thinking of moving to Utah. Robert thinks it would be a good idea. He says there are many opportunities out there, a place to start over fresh.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cRobert? Judy\u2019s Robert?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cWell, I guess you could say that. We have been courting for quite sometime now. He hasn\u2019t asked me to marry him yet, but I\u2019m sure it will be happening soon.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cYou want to marry Robert?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cWell, we\u2019ve been together for nearly a year. I guess it would be the next step.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cBut do you love him?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cAdam! That is not an appropriate question. I owe you no explanation.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cSorry if I seem forward. It\u2019s just that\u2026\u2026\u2026..\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019ve never stopped thinking of you.\u201d She finished.<\/p>\n

\u201cRight. I hoped that maybe\u2026\u2026..I\u2019d find you out here. I wish\u2026\u2026\u2026\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cThat we had not been separated.\u201d She smiled again, showing off dimples of her own.<\/p>\n

\u201cCome to dinner with me. It\u2019ll give us a chance to catch up.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cI can\u2019t, if people see us together unchaparoned, it will surely get back to Robert.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cRobert! What do you see in that stuffy\u2026\u2026\u2026..\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cNow that\u2019s not fair. You two never really hit it off, but it\u2019s not fair of you to judge him. Robert is a very intense person. You just have to get to know him.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cFine. Then invite him along.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cBut\u2026\u2026\u2026.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cNo buts. I want to see you. Invite him along, and meet me at the hotel in an hour. I expect to see you there.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cBut he would never\u2026\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cThen persuade him. You were always quite persuasive.\u201d He answered with a cheeky grin as he put his book down and headed for the door giving her no chance to turn down his invitation.<\/p>\n

She watched him walk away. She knew from the moment she had met him six years ago that he was meant to be her husband. But now, she was soon to be betrothed to Robert, and was it fair to just end that relationship because the man in black had sauntered back into her life. Feeling suddenly claustrophobic she headed out of the bookstore. Her feet carried her along, she wasn\u2019t sure how long she\u2019d been walking. Stopping at the shore line, she slid her shoes off and stood in the sand. This was risky, as a woman in society life should never be seen partaking in such activities. She walked steadily along the beach, eyes on the ocean in front of her. The only thoughts entering her mind being about the man she knew she really loved.<\/p>\n

\u201cWhat do you mean you ran into Elizabeth!\u201d Jimmy said watching a dimpled smile spread across his best friends face.<\/p>\n

\u201cIn the book store that used to be the flower shop. We\u2019re meeting for dinner.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cThat\u2019s great. You think you two will end up together?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cShe\u2019s courting Robert, or I should say Robert is courting her.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cROBERT! The same Robert I punched in the nose?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cThat\u2019s him. I don\u2019t know how he does it. First he gets Judy, then Elizabeth. What do they see in him, that\u2019s what I want to know!\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cMe too! He\u2019s such a stuffy\u2026\u2026\u2026\u2026\u2026\u2026.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cJimmy! Who in the world are you going on about?\u201d Judy said entering the room quickly in hopes of stopping her husband from cursing in front of their son.<\/p>\n

\u201cRobert. Elizabeth and Robert are a couple. Adam ran into her at the bookstore.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cWHAT! You found her here! After all these years! Adam that\u2019s wonderful!\u201d She pranced excitedly, James bouncing up and down on her hip.<\/p>\n

\u201cWonderful! She\u2019s about to be engaged. I wouldn\u2019t say that was wonderful. Maybe if it was to anyone but Robert.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cHe wasn\u2019t so bad, once you got to know him. He was a very\u2026\u2026\u2026\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cIntense man. I know.\u201d Adam finished turning away. \u201cI need to go get ready. I\u2019m meeting them for dinner.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cB-Bam!\u201d James cried reaching out to him.<\/p>\n

\u201cAdam\u2019s got to go little buddy. I promise, we\u2019ll spend time together tomorrow.\u201d He said kissing the babies hair and hurrying out the door.<\/p>\n

\u201cRobert, we must meet him. I already excepted the invitation.\u201d Elizabeth said brushing her hair in front of the mirror.<\/p>\n

\u201cWhy would you. You know what happened last time we shared a meal, his friend broke my nose!\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cThat was Jimmy, not Adam. It\u2019ll be fine honey, you\u2019ll see.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cI see alright. One barbaric move from him, and we\u2019re leaving. I don\u2019t want this to be an ongoing thing Elizabeth. One dinner and that is it!\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cLet\u2019s just see how the evening goes before we decide what we want to do. I\u2019m sure he has changed since college. We all have.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cHmm, his a rancher from the West Elizabeth, he\u2019s not like us.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cYou don\u2019t even know him Robert. I hope you will have better manners during dinner!\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cI assure you my dear. They could be no worse than the man you are forcing me to dine with!\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cThat is quite enough. I do believe this conversation is over. I will be ready to go in half and hour.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cFine. But you owe me. I want you to accompany me to the Hull\u2019s social next Sunday.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cAgreed. Now could I get some privacy please.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cAdam, nice to see you again. You remember Robert.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cYes, how\u2019ve you been?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cWell thank you.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cDid you order all ready Adam?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cJust the wine. I thought I\u2019d wait for my guests.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cGood choice of wine I see. I had no idea you would know of such things.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cRobert, I explained to you before. Adam\u2019s family owns a large ranch in Nevada Territory. He is well trained in the ways of society.\u201d Elizabeth chided hoping Adam would not take offence.<\/p>\n

Adam scowled at Robert but kept his comments to himself. Reaching for the menu, he scanned it, trying to calm his nerves.<\/p>\n

\u201cSo, what brought you back East if you don\u2019t mind my asking.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019m working with Jimmy on a building project. He is contracted to build the new bank that is going up near the edge of town.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cSo you two are business partners?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cNot really. I am just sort of tagging along.\u201d Adam smiled, watching Elizabeth sip her wine. She blushed and smiled back.<\/p>\n

\u201cGlad to see you\u2019re putting your father\u2019s money to use. I warned Elizabeth you would never make much of yourself. You lack the drive.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cNow listen\u2026\u2026\u2026\u2026\u2026.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cAdam, he didn\u2019t mean that! You apologize this instant, you promised you wouldn\u2019t do this!\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cYou just don\u2019t want to face the truth. What has he done with his life? Nothing. He doesn\u2019t even own a business, he just leaches off of people.\u201d<\/p>\n

Adam watched as Elizabeth\u2019s face turned from anger to absolute rage. He wanted to shut this man\u2019s face with a fist to the mouth, but Elizabeth didn\u2019t give him a chance.<\/p>\n

\u201cI can\u2019t believe you. And you say Adam lacks manners. You sir are a snob, no, worse than that you are a stuck up, snobbish, son of a\u2026\u2026\u2026\u2026\u2026\u2026\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cElizabeth, let\u2019s go.\u201d Adam said grabbing her arm to prevent the scene that was about to take place.<\/p>\n

\u201cSomeone ought to put you in your place! If it weren\u2019t for Adam, I would have taken over where Jimmy left off years ago!\u201d<\/p>\n

He pulled her gently towards the door as Robert stood watching, a look of surprise on his face.<\/p>\n

\u201cI don\u2019t know what you see in him. He\u2019s nothing but a cowboy from the West!\u201d Robert shouted as they left the restaurant.<\/p>\n

\u201cI apologize Adam. I don\u2019t know what got into him. He has never been so blatantly rude.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cReally, I\u2019ve known him no other way.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019m sorry. I really should be going. I can\u2019t believe this. How can I stay with him knowing that he can be so\u2026\u2026.so\u2026\u2026..\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cWhy would you stay with him?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cWell because we\u2019ve been\u2026\u2026\u2026..I thought\u2026\u2026\u2026..I don\u2019t know.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cDid you ever really love him?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cI thought I did. But then I saw you and all those old feelings came back to the surface. Robert and I bonded soon after you left. It was only a year ago we became romantically involved. I think I did it just so I wouldn\u2019t be alone.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cI did that once. My engagement ended the same way, well almost. My fianc\u00e9 found out she was truly in love with my cousin. I thought I loved her, but what I found out that I was in love with the idea of being in love. I never really had any true feelings for her, other than friendship.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cOh Adam, what am I going to do? My family is expecting an engagement. I wrote to them in Washington about I and Robert\u2019s plans to move, after he married me of course.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cWell, you\u2019ll have to write them and tell them the truth.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cBut what is the truth? Should I tell them that you have returned? That now I am in love with a man whom I will never get the chance to marry?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cWhy wouldn\u2019t you have the chance to marry?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cYou\u2019re not staying here permanently, and my home is here. I can\u2019t possibly open my heart to you knowing that you are just going to leave me again.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cWhat if I stayed?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cI could never ask that of you. I know how much your family means to you.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cWhat if I said it didn\u2019t matter if you asked or not. What if I said I would stay here regardless.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cThen I would say what are we waiting for.\u201d<\/p>\n

Adam pulled her to him. She kissed him deeply, pressing her body against is, feeling his body respond in return. Hearing a cough nearby she quickly pulled away.<\/p>\n

\u201cWe\u2019re in public. Adam, let\u2019s get out of here.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cWhere should we go?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cTo the beach. I know a place. I used to go there to get away when I was in college. Let\u2019s just hope no one has discovered it yet.\u201d<\/p>\n

She pulled Adam along quickly, dodging through the traffic on the street. Making it to the small cove, she removed her shoes, waiting for Adam to do the same. He took off his boots and walked beside her into the cove. Sitting with their backs against the wall they stared at each other in silence.<\/p>\n

\u201cWhat are you thinking Adam? Are you thinking this is wrong?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cNo.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cThen what?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019m thinking how stupid I was six years ago to have left you here. I\u2019ve known since the moment I saw you that you\u2019d be my wife.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cI knew also. I tried to catch you at the station, but the train was already pulling away.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cI saw you. But, I was young, and on my way home. I regretted that moment everyday of my life since. I love you Elizabeth, I always have.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cI love you to Adam Cartwright.\u201d<\/p>\n

She leaned into him again, there kiss slow and passionate. She began to unbutton his shirt with one hand, the other trailing up and down his back. Adam returned the kiss, but felt his body begin to tense. He pulled away slightly as her hands made contact with his bare skin.<\/p>\n

\u201cWhat is it Adam? What\u2019s wrong?\u201d Elizabeth asked seeing him break into a sweat, and his body begin to tremble. \u201cAre you sick? Tell me what\u2019s wrong.\u201d<\/p>\n

He tried to fight but he knew he was being pulled into a vision.<\/p>\n

\u201cThat\u2019s it, stay right there.\u201d Susie laughed as Cain held the knife to his gut.<\/p>\n

\u201cPlease Adam, you\u2019re scaring me.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cYou know what I want, finish it!\u201d She laughed again digging her nails into his bare back.<\/p>\n

\u201cADAM!\u201d She cried as he fell to his back in the cove.<\/p>\n

\u201cWe ain\u2019t through with you yet Cartwright! It\u2019s only just begun.\u201d Cain laughed removing the knife from his stomach, leaving a small scratch stretching along his abdomen.<\/p>\n

\u201cI can\u2019t. I can\u2019t.\u201d Adam breathed, as his vision came back into focus.<\/p>\n

\u201cIt\u2019s okay Adam. Tell me what\u2019s wrong. Do you need a doctor?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cNo, I\u2019m fine. Just need a minute.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cBut your shaking so badly. Are you cold?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cElizabeth, there\u2019s things you don\u2019t know about me. I shouldn\u2019t be doing this to you. I shouldn\u2019t have gotten you involved.\u201d<\/p>\n

He sat up slowly and pulled his knees to his chest.<\/p>\n

\u201cInvolved with what? Please Adam tell me what is wrong.\u201d Elizabeth said with tears streaming down her face.<\/p>\n

\u201cI can\u2019t.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cWhy!\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cPlease, I can\u2019t.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cI love you Adam. You could say and do nothing to change that. Whatever it is I can take it. If you love me, you would keep nothing from me. Is it a lie?\u201d<\/p>\n

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

\u201cYour love for me!\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cNo. I love you, that\u2019s why I can\u2019t tell you.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cYou\u2019re wrong Adam, that\u2019s what you hide behind. I\u2019ve never known you to be a coward Adam. Let\u2019s face this, whatever it is, together.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cElizabeth.\u201d He whispered choking back the anguish he felt.<\/p>\n

\u201cThere is nothing we can\u2019t conquer Adam, you just have to give us the chance.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cThere\u2019s too much to tell. I don\u2019t think you\u2019ll want to hear it. Please don\u2019t do this to me. Don\u2019t make me relive it.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cYou are already reliving it, look at you. We can face this Adam, I promise I will not turn away from you.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cYOU CAN\u2019T SAY THAT! YOU DON\u2019T KNOW WHAT THEY DID TO ME!\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cThey\u2019ve done nothing worse than what you are doing to yourself. Your letting them win Adam, you\u2019re letting it control your life.\u201d<\/p>\n

She watched, her eyes filled with tears, reflecting her love for the broken man before her. She leaned in as she heard him whispering, he was talking about a kidnapping. She scooted beside him and drew his head to her chest, she listened with a heavy heart as he told the story he would never tell again.<\/p>\n

\u201cDid we sleep here?\u201d Adam asked rolling over and rubbing his puffy eyes.<\/p>\n

\u201cWe did. I don\u2019t know when it happened.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cWe better go.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cYes, people will begin to worry. You feeling okay?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cNo.\u201d
\n\u201cI\u2019m sorry sweetheart. I know that was terrifying for you, but I hope it helped some. I don\u2019t want that nightmare to overshadow the rest of our lives.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cYou mean you still love me, still want to be with me, after I told you what they did to me?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cI want to be with you the rest of our lives. I want to become Mrs. Adam Cartwright. I want to raise a family. You were wrong Adam, when you said they won. We won, our bond is only now stronger, our love runs deeper.\u201d<\/p>\n

Adam blinked back tears as he stared at the woman in front of him. The shame and guilt that he had been carrying for the past year and a half melted off his shoulders. He would fight alone no longer. His soul had been restored.<\/p>\n

\u201cWe were so worried, when you didn\u2019t come home. Where have you been?\u201d Judy asked pulling Adam into a hug. Pulling away and looking into his eyes she could tell he had been crying. \u201cDid something happen with Elizabeth?\u201d<\/p>\n

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

\u201cWhat? You\u2019ve been crying. Wait till I get my hands on her. She won\u2019t have a hair left on that head.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cShe saved me.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019ll poke her eye\u2019s right out\u2026\u2026\u2026wait, did you say she saved you?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cYes, she saved me from myself. We spent the night together. I told her things, and she didn\u2019t push me away. She loves me Judy.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cThat\u2019s wonderful Adam. Then why do you seem so upset?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019m not upset, not anymore. We\u2019re getting married. I\u2019m staying here in Boston with her, we\u2019ll move into Grandfather Stoddard\u2019s apartment.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cSo soon? That\u2019s awful quick to jump into marriage. You hardly know her Adam. Six years is a long time!\u201d Judy said grabbing his shoulder\u2019s, her eyes filled with worry.
\n\u201cSix years that I\u2019ve lost. I won\u2019t lose anymore time. We\u2019re getting married next Saturday, right after James Christening.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cNEXT SATURDAY, THAT\u2019S HARDLY TIME TO PLAN A WEDDING!\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cWho\u2019s planning a wedding?\u201d Jimmy asked walking into the room.<\/p>\n

\u201cAdam.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cAdam! With who?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cElizabeth.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cAfter one night. That must have been some night!\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cIt sure was. A night I\u2019ll never forget.\u201d<\/p>\n

Chapter 15<\/p>\n

Dear Pa, Hoss, and Joe,<\/p>\n

I\u2019m sure you\u2019ve received your letters and gifts by now. I hope you enjoyed them. I received your letters, and I thank you for the clothes you sent along. I decided I didn\u2019t want to dress as society deems appropriate, my clothes are much more comfortable.<\/p>\n

I have some news, and I wish I could be there to tell you in person. I have once again met Elizabeth, I believe I told you some about her in letters I had written while in college. I knew the moment I lain eyes on her that this would be my wife. I left her all those years ago, and have regretted it ever since. I know this may come as a shock to you since I have not spoken of her since, but I will have regrets no more. We are married Pa. I married her after James\u2019s Christening, we are living in Grandfather\u2019s apartment.<\/p>\n

You\u2019ll never know how much I wish you could have been there, but I could not wait any longer. I understand now Pa, what was between you and Marie. When something is so right, you just have to follow your heart. Please don\u2019t be angry with me, know that I love you and I think of you every day. I don\u2019t know when I will be coming home, Elizabeth is doing quite well in her business. She has her own fabric line, she designs dresses for balls and society meetings. You\u2019d like her Pa, she reminds me a lot of Marie, with her temper anyway. She doesn\u2019t hesitate to put me in my place.<\/p>\n

I\u2019d hate to ask this of you, knowing that you are in the busiest season at the Ponderosa. But, I wish you would come out for a visit. You could stay with us, we\u2019ve plenty of room. Just think about it Pa, Joe, Hoss.<\/p>\n

I know this letter is nothing like you were expecting. I hope you find it in your hearts to except my decision. Please remember that I love you all very much.<\/p>\n

Love,
\nAdam<\/p>\n

\u201cCAN YOU BELIEVE THAT PA! HE GOES AND GETS MARRIED. HE\u2019LL NEVER COME BACK NOW! NEVER! HE BROKE HIS PROMISE. HE MADE HIS BED, HE CAN LIE IN IT. HE DOESN\u2019T THINK OF US, SO I WON\u2019T THINK OF HIM. NO WAY AM I GOING TO BOSTON! NO WAY!\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cNow Joe, settle down. I know this was unexpected, but you\u2019re brother is old enough to make decisions for himself.\u201d Ben said rushing to his distraught son. \u201cHe wants us to visit Joe, how can you deny him that?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cHe\u2019s living there now Pa. He has his own life. Well he can enjoy that life without me!\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cJoe, you know Adam\u2019s hurtin over this. He wrote it in his letter. He expected us to be upset, but not about his happiness. About us not being able to share it with him.\u201d Hoss said going to his brother\u2019s other side.<\/p>\n

\u201cHoss is right. You heard him, he wants to see us. He\u2019s not forgotten us.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cI thought he\u2019d come home Pa. I\u2019ve been waiting for him to come back.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cHe may still comeback someday Joe, but we gotta be understanding. Old Adam just wasn\u2019t the same after what those men did to him. Put yourself in his shoes Joe, wouldn\u2019t you want to leave something like that behind you?\u2019<\/p>\n

\u201cNOT IF IT MEANT LEAVING MY FAMILY IN IT\u2019S WAKE!\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cHe\u2019s not leaving us Joe. He\u2019s inviting us to be a part of it with him.\u201d<\/p>\n

The day was warm when they awoke. The sound of the waves hitting the shore echoed around them as they took their morning walk. Her hair was down, and the slight breeze caused it to wave about beside him. He stopped walking, causing her to turn towards him.<\/p>\n

\u201cWhat is it Adam?\u201d She asked as he studied her.<\/p>\n

He held both of her hands in front of him as he leaned in for a kiss. She met his request, and stood back smiling as the passerby\u2019s moved around them. Some harrumphed and other\u2019s smiled.<\/p>\n

\u201cI love you.\u201d He said casually as they once again began their trek down the shore.
\n\u201cYou know, Grandfather used to tell me that no matter where he was in the city he could always hear the sound of the waves crashing into the shore.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cI bet he could. Your Grandfather lived for the sea. I remember attending several social\u2019s in which he was a party too, and his voice would fill the parlor with one story after another about the sea and the treasures it held.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cYou think he\u2019d mind us taking over his apartment?\u201d Adam asked suddenly, squeezing her hand tightly.<\/p>\n

\u201cI would think he\u2019d be proud. Why, is it bothering you?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cIn a way I guess. I don\u2019t know, I guess it\u2019s more the memories than anything else. Every time we go to bed I think of him sitting in that chair reading.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cSo what were you thinking? You want to look for another place?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cSort of.\u201d<\/p>\n

She laughed. She could always tell when he was pondering something. They had been married for over a month now and lately he had become withdrawn. He spent hours in the study, and seldom sought out her opinion on matters at hand.<\/p>\n

\u201cWell, I\u2019ve been waiting for you to come to me for weeks now. What is \u2018sort of\u2019\u2019 Adam?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019ve been working with Jimmy on this building project as you know.\u201d His voice was teasing.<\/p>\n

\u201cYes, I know. You\u2019ve been a recluse for weeks as well.\u201d She smiled.<\/p>\n

\u201cAnd, I spoke with him about an idea I had for us. A house, but not one like the style here, a cross between Western style, and Eastern Style. I have it all drawn out, but I wanted your input before I finalized it. What do you think?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cI think that would be fine. It would make our marriage seem a little more official, having a place all our own don\u2019t you think.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cThat\u2019s exactly what I was thinking.\u201d He flashed his dimpled smile, as he suddenly turned towards her and lifted her into his arms. She laughed and kicked her legs as he carried her down the boardwalk. Stepping towards the edge, his smile changed to that of trouble.<\/p>\n

\u201cAdam Stoddard Cartwright, if you\u2019re thinking of putting me in that water, you\u2019ve got another think coming!\u201d She said gripping tightly to his shoulders. Before she had a chance to argue further he jumped from the pier. Together they splashed into the water. Resurfacing, he swam quickly away from her laughing. She gave chase, quickly catching up, and dunked him under. The rest of the morning was spent playing in the chilly water of the Boston Harbor.<\/p>\n

\u201cI can\u2019t believe you! You could have warned me that you wanted to swim today, do you have any idea how hard it is to walk home in a soaking wet ankle length dress?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cNo, I can\u2019t say as I do.\u201d Adam laughed as he watched her wrestle her way out of the sopping garment.<\/p>\n

\u201cIt\u2019s not easy sir! No it is not. Next time, you will be in BIG trouble.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cBig trouble.\u201d He whispered in her ear, wrapping his arms around her before she could redress. He slowly kissed her neck, making his way down until she turned to face him. Her mouth met his as she walked him steadily towards the wall of the bedroom. His back met the wall as their lovemaking increased.<\/p>\n

\u201cIs this it Pa? Looks like the right building. I\u2019m surprised Adam wasn\u2019t there to meet us. You think he didn\u2019t get our letter?\u201d Hoss asked standing in front of the large brick building near the shore.<\/p>\n

\u201cI don\u2019t know Hoss. He never responded, or at least if he did, we didn\u2019t receive it before we left. Let\u2019s just go on in. If this isn\u2019t it, maybe we can look up Judy and Jimmy somehow, they\u2019ll know where to go.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cSure is a big city. Adam said there was plenty of exploring we could do. I hope he takes me to that saloon he mentioned, you know the one with three levels.\u201d Joe said opening the door for his father and brother.<\/p>\n

\u201cElizabeth, not here. I don\u2019t want to do it in here.\u201d Adam said breathlessly, pulling her out of the bedroom, kissing her passionately as they went along.<\/p>\n

\u201cWhere were you thinking?\u201d She asked, stroking his chest and back as he led her along.<\/p>\n

\u201cLiving room.\u201d He managed between passions, bumping into furniture as they made their way down the hall.<\/p>\n

\u201cHere it is Pa, I told ya this was it.\u201d Joe said standing in front of the door. Raising his hand to knock, he stopped when he heard muffled sounds coming from the other side of the door.<\/p>\n

\u201cAdam!\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cWell, somebody\u2019s calling for him. Go ahead Joe, he must be home.\u201d Ben said wondering why his son was stalling.<\/p>\n

\u201cDon\u2019t stop, don\u2019t stop. Yes!\u201d
\nThe three men stepped back from the door as a loud bang came from the other side. The door vibrated, and Joe let out a quiet giggle.<\/p>\n

\u201cWhy don\u2019t we go get something to eat first boys.\u201d Ben said turning from the door quickly and walking down the hall.<\/p>\n

\u201cYeah, wait up a minute Pa!\u201d Hoss called following quickly behind.<\/p>\n

Ben turned to see Joe still standing at the door and hollered to him to come on. Joe laughed again, and turned away from the door. He trotted down the hallway to catch up to his father and brother, his laughter echoing down the corridor.<\/p>\n

They both lay breathless on the rug in front of the door. Adam worked on catching his breath, pondering what he thought he had heard during the heat of the moment.<\/p>\n

\u201cYou\u2019re sure you didn\u2019t hear anything?\u201d He asked, rolling onto his side to face his wife.<\/p>\n

She laughed out loud, meeting his gaze. \u201cAdam, even if I did hear something, I wasn\u2019t exactly in the position to pay attention now was I?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cI swear I heard my brother laughing. But that couldn\u2019t be, could it?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cNo. Besides, you were pretty busy to know exactly what you heard at the time too.\u201d<\/p>\n

His dimpled smile met hers as they rolled back onto their backs. Staring at the ceiling Adam\u2019s mind wandered back to childhood, a time when his brother had caught him in a rather awkward position.<\/p>\n

\u201cC\u2019mon Hoss, Pa\u2019ll never know. Adam\u2019s been up to something all week. Please, let\u2019s just go to the lake, I\u2019m sure that\u2019s where he went.\u201d Joe whined to his brother as they worked on the fencing in the north pasture.<\/p>\n

\u201cJoe, if this fence ain\u2019t done, Pa\u2019ll kill us. And if Adam find\u2019s out we\u2019re spying on him, he\u2019ll kill us. I ain\u2019t having no part in it!\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cYou\u2019re just as bad as him! Ever since he got back from that dumb ole college, he\u2019s Mr. Perfect. Now, when we have the chance to catch him doing something wrong, you try and play the part. Well that\u2019s just fine big brother. See if I do any favors for you anytime soon!\u201d Joe stormed mounting his pony and riding off.<\/p>\n

Hoss sighed, not only did he know Joe was headed for trouble, but now he had to finish the whole dad burn fence by himself. Boy was Pa gonna be hot if he found out!<\/p>\n

Joe pulled his pony to a standstill as he saw Sport\u2019s tracks leading down a small muddy trail next to Mill\u2019s creek. Jumping off the horse, he followed the trail on foot. He could hear their voices long before he could see them. A woman\u2019s squeals and laughter made him move a little faster, hiding behind brush and trees as he went along. Finally, the couple came into view. A blanket was lain out in front of the pond. A tree shaded the spot, and an open picnic basket was nearby. Peeking towards the spot where the last sound was heard, Joe\u2019s eyes opened wide. The lady was down to her underclothes, which were soaked through, leaving little to the imagination. Adam was down to his underwear, and it was obvious the two had just finished swimming. The lady was now running from Adam as he playfully chased her between the two trees, threatening to throw her into the water. Joe remained carefully hidden as he covered his mouth in case he felt the need to giggle.<\/p>\n

Catching a hold of Jenny Lee, Adam lifted her off the ground. His hands encircled each side of her waist, as she wrapped her legs around his middle. She bent towards him, kissing him fully on the lips. Joe watched in awe as the kiss lasted longer than he thought any kiss could last, how could they breathe! Adam walked towards the blanket, now kissing her neck, working his along her collar bone as she moaned in delight. He lay her on the blanket, then supporting his weight with one hand lay on top of her. Their passions increased, soon their hands were roaming, and gasps could be heard from Joe\u2019s hiding place nearby.<\/p>\n

Worrying that he was going to get caught, and concerned at the strange feelings that now were swirling inside him he quietly snuck away. He ran the length of the trail back to his pony and quickly took off for home. He stopped at the fence to help Hoss finish up, but remained quiet about what he had seen. Silently they made their way towards home, Hoss giving his brother one questioning glance after another. Joe spent the rest of the afternoon in the loft. He had to figure out what he had seen. Why did Adam want to do that anyway, and with a dumb old girl. That\u2019s gross! But why did seeing what he did make him feel funny? He couldn\u2019t ask Pa, that\u2019s for sure. And he was still angry with Hoss for refusing to go with him. If Adam knew he was spying, he would probably kill him, so what could he do!<\/p>\n

Adam arrived home in time for supper, stabling Sport, he began to brush him down. Joe remained hidden in the loft as he listened to his brother talk to his horse quietly. His legs beginning to fall asleep, Joe shifted positions, sending hay falling from the loft.<\/p>\n

\u201cJoe?\u201d Adam asked as hay fell around him. Joe was the only one that hid in the loft these days, unless it was that darn raccoon again. \u201cYou up there?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cHuh?\u201d He answered, knowing he would look anyway.<\/p>\n

\u201cIs something wrong?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cNo.\u201d He answered way too quickly. He closed his eyes tight as the sound of brushing stopped. Foot falls were heard on the ladder as Adam made his way up.<\/p>\n

\u201cYou in trouble with Pa?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cNo. I\u2019m not in any trouble.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cThen why you up here little buddy?\u201d Adam smiled, he had only been home a short while, and he hoped he and Joe could rebuild there relationship.<\/p>\n

\u201cJust thinking.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cYeah, bout what?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cThings.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cThings like school, frogs, friends? What?\u201d<\/p>\n

Joe met his brother\u2019s eyes. He really wanted to know why Adam was doing what he was doing with that girl. He searched for any sign that his brother was angry, or in a bad mood, all he saw was kindness, and curiosity.<\/p>\n

\u201cAdam, why do you like girls?\u201d<\/p>\n

Adam cleared his throat a bit. Memories of his earlier encounter causing a smile to cross his face.<\/p>\n

\u201cWell because they\u2019re nice to be around. They make you feel good.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cLike when you kiss em?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cHave you kissed a girl Joe?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cNO!\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cOh.\u201d Adam laughed, draping an arm over his brother\u2019s shoulder. \u201cYeah, it feels good to kiss a girl, but also, just to have a conversation, the company.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cBut you weren\u2019t talking to that girl Adam, you two were kissing, and you were touching her all over, and making sounds and\u2026\u2026\u2026\u201d Joe caught himself, he had just admitted to Adam that he had seen them. Adam removed his arm from Joe\u2019s shoulder, and he cleared his throat.<\/p>\n

\u201cYou were by the pond today Joe?\u201d Adam asked, his eyes darkening.<\/p>\n

\u201cUm, just for a minute.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cThought you were helping Hoss with the fence.\u201d His voice was low.<\/p>\n

\u201cWe kinda got in a fight, so I went on a ride. I ended up at the pond. I heard voices, and I wondered who was on our land, so I went to check it out. I\u2019m sorry Adam.\u201d<\/p>\n

Adam remained silent, he wondered just how much his brother had seen. He heard them making noises, touching, what if this got back to Pa!<\/p>\n

\u201cWas it hurting her Adam, is that why she was sounding that way?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cNo, it wasn\u2019t hurting her. Joe, what we were doing is something private. You don\u2019t discuss those types of things. Understand.\u201d Adam tried, praying that word would not get back to his father.<\/p>\n

\u201cYeah, it looked pretty private to me. It made me feel funny being there. I got all tingly inside. I don\u2019t want to talk about it anymore either. Let\u2019s just forget about it okay.\u201d Joe said moving towards the ladder. He heard his brother\u2019s sigh of relief as his foot hit the top rung of the ladder.<\/p>\n

Adam lay back in the loft as his brother disappeared from sight. If his father ever found out that he was alone with Jenny Lee, he was sure his father would forget he was too old for a tanning. Ben Cartwright was a stickler when it came to the respect and dignity of man and woman. If he knew what they had done that day, well, that\u2019s a thought best left unfinished.<\/p>\n

The three finished their meal at the restaurant slowly, all avoiding any conversation of what they\u2019d heard at the apartment. Only Joe held onto a smug smile and giggled occasionally, receiving a stern glare from his father. When it was time to leave, Ben suggested they walk around the block, he pointed out how much had changed in the twenty years since he had lived there. When the sun began to set, the group headed back towards the apartment, walking slowly towards the door. Joe stood once again prepared to knock as he listened carefully at the door. He turned to his father and smiled when no sound was heard, and knocked loudly on the door. Footsteps were heard approaching, and the door opened slowly, a small cat being pushed away from the door.<\/p>\n

\u201cHello, may I help you?\u201d Elizabeth asked, trying to keep their cat inside the apartment.<\/p>\n

\u201cYou must be Elizabeth.\u201d Ben answered smiling at the beautiful woman standing before him. Her brown hair hung loose, she was in a nightgown, not having bothered to cover up with a house coat to answer the door.<\/p>\n

\u201cYes, I am Elizabeth. May I help you with something?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cOh, yes ma\u2019am. We\u2019re looking for our brother, Adam Cartwright. I\u2019m Hoss, this is Joe.\u201d Hoss chimed in, smiling also at the woman before him. \u201cYou\u2026\u2026You\u2019re\u2026\u2026.OH MY GOODNESS!\u201d She yelled, grabbing Ben\u2019s hand and pulling him into a hug, followed by Hoss and Joe. He\u2019s told me so much about you. I\u2019m so glad you could come! Please come in, come in! He\u2019s not home right now, he\u2019s working with Jimmy, but he should be back in a few hours. It\u2019s so good to meet you!\u201d She bounced up and down as she led them to the sitting room.<\/p>\n

\u201cWe sent a letter, but when he wasn\u2019t there to meet us, we decided he mustn\u2019t have gotten it.\u201d Ben said sitting on the sofa, the small cat hopping on his lap.<\/p>\n

\u201cGet down Buck.\u201d She said pushing the cat off his lap.<\/p>\n

\u201cBuck?\u201d Joe laughed, as the cat landed on the floor with a loud meow.<\/p>\n

\u201cAdam named him. We got him two days after we were married. I always thought the name was strange.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cIt\u2019s Pa\u2019s horse\u2019s name.\u201d Joe laughed again as he picked the cat up into his lap. \u201cHe must have been a little homesick.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cWe were quite surprised to hear he was married, it happened so quickly. I\u2019m sorry we weren\u2019t able to be present.\u201d Ben said glancing around the apartment that held so many memories for him.<\/p>\n

\u201cIt was quite sudden, but we knew it was right. After all he had been through with the kidnapping, he nearly didn\u2019t go through with it. But, now we couldn\u2019t be more happy. I think you\u2019ll be pleased Mr. Cartwright.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cPlease, call me Ben.\u201d<\/p>\n

They all turned as the door was heard opening in the other room. Elizabeth stood, starting towards the door when Ben stopped her. His eyes danced as he asked her permission to greet his son. She nodded silently, a bright smile filling her face, as Hoss and Joe stood to watch.<\/p>\n

\u201cElizabeth, you\u2019ll never believe what Jimmy did this time! As smart as he is he can be such a \u2026\u2026\u2026\u2026.\u201d
\nHis sentence was left unfinished as he turned from the coat rack and met the embrace of his father.<\/p>\n

\u201cPa?\u201d Adam whispered as he hugged him fiercely.<\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019m so glad to see you son. We came as soon as we heard you were married.\u201d Ben said, a tear trekking down his cheek.<\/p>\n

\u201cI was hoping you would come, but it\u2019s the busy season Pa. How\u2026\u2026..what about Hoss and Joe? Are they gonna be able to handle all that work?\u201d Adam asked keeping a tight hold on his father.<\/p>\n

\u201cNo, they won\u2019t.\u201d Ben answered, cherishing this moment with his son. \u201cWe hired more men, I put Charlie and Jake in charge, they have strict orders to contact me the first sign of trouble.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cCharlie and Jake, but Hoss and Joe\u2026\u2026\u2026..?\u201d Adam stopped, pulling away from his father and searching his eyes. His golden eyes filled with tears as he looked towards the sitting room. \u201cThey\u2019re here?\u201d He whispered.<\/p>\n

\u201cHey brother.\u201d Hoss said, finally entering the room for a hug of his own.
\nAdam embraced Hoss quickly, holding him tight until he heard his brother sniffle. Then he turned to Joe.<\/p>\n

\u201cJoe!\u201d Adam said, unashamed of the tears that now streaked his face. \u201cI\u2019m sorry Joe, I know how my letter must have upset you. I didn\u2019t mean to hurt you.\u201d He whispered so only his brother could hear.<\/p>\n

\u201cI know Adam, I understand. She seems like a wonderful woman.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cShe is.\u201d<\/p>\n

They made their way back into the sitting room, Adam sitting next to his wife and father. They shared their lives, catching up on the last year. Ben marveled at the difference in Adam. The shine was back in his eyes, even his mannerisms were different. He was happy.<\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019m being rude, here you traveled all this way, and I haven\u2019t even offered you a moment to rest. You must be beat.\u201d Adam said rising after he noticed the three starting to sag. Pa, why don\u2019t you take my old room, Hoss and Joe, I\u2019ll show you your\u2019s. Adam led Hoss and Joe down the far hallway, leaving Ben to find his own room. The room he remembered well. It was the room in which he and his wife had shared. As he walked through the door he was flooded with memories. The room lay nearly untouched. Her hairbrush and mirror lay on the dressing table. Her books lay on the shelves against the wall. A few of Adam\u2019s college items lay scattered on the tables, a baseball cap, and a few books left behind. He sat on the bed, head in hands as he thought of the moment his son was born and his wife was taken. He didn\u2019t hear his son enter as he gave in to the despair his heart now felt.<\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019m sorry Pa. I wasn\u2019t thinking.\u201d Adam said as he pulled his father close, closing his eyes tight against his fathers pain. He couldn\u2019t stand to hear his father cry, his heart felt like it was being ripped from his chest. \u201cYou can take I and Elizabeth\u2019s room, we\u2019ll sleep in here.\u201d<\/p>\n

Ben worked on pulling himself together. He sat up wearily as his eyes once again surveyed the room.<\/p>\n

\u201cNo, that\u2019s not necessary. I\u2019m okay, just doing a little wool gathering.\u201d Ben said wiping his eyes dry and facing his son. He saw Adam\u2019s own tears, tears that always fell, if Ben lost control of his emotions. He wiped them away with his thumbs as another memory came to surface.<\/p>\n

Those golden eyes followed him wherever he went. He was supposed to be sleeping, he hadn\u2019t napped all morning, but the seven month old was determined to stay awake. Ben worked on dressing, he had a meeting with a service man today, he was hoping for a contract to outfit his fleet.<\/p>\n

\u201cAdam, you need to go to sleep.\u201d Ben chided, shaking his finger at the infant who lay cooing in his crib, a serious expression etched into his features.<\/p>\n

Leaving the room to get his paperwork, he heard the sound of cooing turn to babbles. The seven month old had recently taken to making new sounds, oddly resembling words. He was now speaking loudly, an urgent tone to his small voice. Ben grabbed the papers, and went back in the room to straighten his tie.
\n\u201cMrs. Callahan, I have to go. Adam is still awake, he\u2019ll need fed soon.\u201d Ben called as he flattened out that stray hair on his forehead once again.<\/p>\n

\u201cYes sir. I don\u2019t understand why he is trying to do away with his morning nap, he is much too young.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cI agree. But, I suppose he isn\u2019t fussing much.\u201d Ben said rushing towards the door. Turning back, he kissed Adam\u2019s forehead before running towards the door.<\/p>\n

The meeting went terribly. Every offer he made was turned down, and the man was just plan rude. Ben stormed into the house startling Adam who was sitting in his high chair beginning his evening meal. One look at his father, and he lifted his cup towards him.<\/p>\n

\u201cD-Dw.\u201d Adam said, cup in hand, extended towards his father.<\/p>\n

\u201cNo thank you. You drink it.\u201d Ben said gruffly as he sat heavily in his chair.<\/p>\n

\u201cD-Dw.\u201d He repeated, this time shaking the cup towards his father. The milk sloshed out, landing on the floor with a splash. Ben glared at his son as he went for the rag by the sink.<\/p>\n

\u201cAdam! Drink your milk or put it down!\u201d He said sharply as he bent to clean up the spill.<\/p>\n

He heard the sound of soft sniffles as he picked up the wet rag and carried it towards the laundry. His heart softened as he met the wet eyes of his young son who was now staring hard at the spot where the milk had spilled. Ben lifted him out of the chair, and set the child in his lap.<\/p>\n

\u201cPapa had a bad day Adam. I\u2019m sorry, I shouldn\u2019t take it out on you. I know you were only trying to help.\u201d He said, his son now staring into his eyes. He sniffled again, those eyes studying his father closely, as if deep in thought. His small hands found his father\u2019s cheek as he patted them lovingly. He bent forward, giving his father a wet kiss on the lips. Ben smiled, his bad mood now lifted. Adam had a way of knowing exactly what to do.<\/p>\n

\u201cI love you.\u201d Ben whispered as his son rested his head against his chest.
\n\u201cDub.\u201d Was the response, as Ben kissed the soft curly hair of the child that meant more to him than life itself.<\/p>\n

\u201cI remember how I felt the first time I came in this room Pa. I cried myself to sleep that night. I was so homesick, I had never felt more further away from you than I did that night. Well, not until\u2026\u2026\u2026..\u201d I\u2019m glad you\u2019re here Pa.\u201d Adam said bringing his father out of his silent memory.<\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019m glad to be here son. I\u2019ve missed you. Things just aren\u2019t the same around the Ponderosa. Hoss took it okay, but then again, he handles everything pretty well. Joe on the other hand, he struggles with it. But, I think we\u2019re all just glad you\u2019re happy.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cI am happy. I love her Pa. I\u2019ve never felt this way about any one before. She makes me feel alive again, I look forward to waking up every day, simply because I know I\u2019ll get to see her one more time. I know you haven\u2019t had much time with her, but once you get to know her, I think\u2026\u2026\u2026.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cShe\u2019s wonderful Adam. I can already tell what it is you see in her. She\u2019s a lot like your mother actually. You know she answered the door without covering up! I was shocked, a lady of society behaving in such a manner.\u201d Ben laughed. \u201cYour mother was the same way. She didn\u2019t do things to please other\u2019s in that way. She was simply herself, she knew no other way to be.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cThat\u2019s what I love most about her. She\u2019s real, she doesn\u2019t feel the need to put on a show. She\u2019s beautiful on the inside, where it counts. How long are you staying?\u201d He asked suddenly, a longing in his voice.<\/p>\n

\u201cOnly two weeks, that\u2019s all we could manage. I wish it could be longer, but it is the busy season.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cNo, I understand. Two weeks, well, that\u2019ll give us a little time anyway. I\u2019m going to build a house for us Pa. Wait till you see it. I\u2019ll show it to you in the morning. Right now, you need to sleep, you look like you\u2019re about to drop.\u201d Adam laughed as his father yawned once again.<\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019d like to see that house. I\u2019ll look forward to it in the morning. Good night Adam.\u201d
\n\u201cNight Pa.\u201d Adam said turning towards the door. Ben stood and began to undress, he was interrupted as his son once again stood in front of him. He felt himself wrapped in another hug, as his son placed a kiss on his cheek. \u201cI love you.\u201d He said, slipping out of the room.<\/p>\n

Adam peeked in on Hoss before he went to check on Joe. Hoss was already snoring soundly, so he closed the door quietly and moved on. He quietly opened Joe\u2019s door and saw him sitting up and reading in bed.<\/p>\n

\u201cAdam?\u201d Joe asked seeing his door crack open.<\/p>\n

\u201cYou need anything buddy?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cCome in Adam.\u201d Joe said setting his book on the table next to the bed.<\/p>\n

\u201cWhat ya reading?\u201d Adam asked entering the room.<\/p>\n

\u201cGulliver\u2019s Travel\u2019s. It\u2019s pretty good. I borrowed it from your room, I hope you don\u2019t mind.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cOf course I don\u2019t mind. I\u2019m just glad you\u2019re reading something other than those dime novels.\u201d Adam laughed sitting on the edge of the bed. \u201cSo did the trip go okay? You got in pretty late.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cThe trip went fine. We didn\u2019t get in as late as you think we did brother.\u201d Joe finished with a teasing giggle, he had been dying to embarrass his brother all day.<\/p>\n

\u201cWhat do you mean? Elizabeth said you didn\u2019t get here until after eight.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cNo, we were here around four actually.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cI didn\u2019t leave until six, we didn\u2019t hear you stop by. Did you do some sight seeing first?\u201d Adam questioned, wondering why they would lug their belongings around the city.<\/p>\n

\u201cWe weren\u2019t planning to, but it sort of turned out that way.\u201d Joe giggled again, Adam wasn\u2019t catching on. \u201cWe stopped by the house, but you were busy.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cI was busy. Joe, you\u2019re not making any sense.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019m making plenty of sense.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cQuit smiling at me like that. What in the world is wrong with you?\u201d Adam asked completely bewildered.<\/p>\n

\u201cAdam! Don\u2019t stop, don\u2019t stop!\u201d Joe imitated laughing as his brother turned red.<\/p>\n

Joe burst into laughter, grabbing his sides as Adam shoved him hard in the shoulder. \u201cYou should\u2019ve seen Pa\u2019s face when you hit the door!\u201d Joe coughed out between laughs. He made us eat for two hours, then walk around the city while he reminisced.<\/p>\n

\u201cShut up Joe!\u201d Adam said, hiding his face in his hands as the thoughts of his father hearing he and his wife\u2019s indiscretions entered his mind. \u201cOh lord.\u201d He said shaking his head. \u201cYou better not say a word to Elizabeth. I mean it Joe, I\u2019ll kill you. I really will.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cI wouldn\u2019t do that brother. I just had to give you a hard time. It reminded me of the time you were with Jenny Lee. I wonder if Pa ever found out about that!\u201d Joe laughed again as Adam tried to smother him with a pillow.<\/p>\n

Finally releasing his grip on the pillow, Joe sat up red faced. Both were laughing now, as Adam leaned back against the headboard. \u201cDo you like girls now Little Joe?\u201d Adam joked, causing Joe to punch him in the arm.<\/p>\n

\u201cYou know, Pa can still find out about Jenny Lee.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cUh huh. And Pa can still find out about Mona and Rose. I saw you in the barn. And I never took a girl to my room Joe, not like you and Rose.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cYOU KNEW ABOUT THAT!\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cI know everything, so you better keep that mouth of yours sealed tight.\u201d Adam said facing his brother as he stood. \u201cNight Joe.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cNight Adam.\u201d Joe said rolling over still smiling.<\/p>\n

\u201cHey Joe, I\u2019m really glad you\u2019re here. I love you.\u201d Adam said as he closed the door.<\/p>\n

Joe turned towards the door. Adam was definitely different. The old Adam would never have joked around about something as serious as what they had just discussed. He used to be so sad and aloof. Now he had a dance in his step and a sparkle in his eye. He spoke of how he felt, and showed his love openly. All the anger that Joe felt dissipated as he realized that this really was the best thing for his brother. He said a silent prayer, thanking the lord for releasing his brother from the hell he was in and bringing him back to them.<\/p>\n

Chapter 16<\/p>\n

Ben woke early as usual. He sat up slowly and surveyed the room. So many memories. He could spend the entire day in this room and never run out of memories. He could smell breakfast cooking, and decided it would be better if he dressed. He wanted to spend as much time with Adam and his new wife as he could. After shaving, he walked quietly into the parlor so as not to upset Joe and Hoss, who\u2019s doors remained closed. It had been a long trip, and if they wanted to sleep in, he didn\u2019t blame them. He saw Adam on the settee, the orange tabby cat on his lap. He was holding it up by the front shoulder\u2019s and speaking to it.<\/p>\n

\u201cWhat is it little kitty? Did you want some cream? I bet papa could get you some cream if you ask him nicely.\u201d He cooed at the cat. Ben smiled, this was so unlike the son who had left the Ponderosa over a year ago. That Adam had no life left in him. He merely made it through day by day. This Adam was full of life, laughing, joking, smiling, and now playing with a cat. Ben had always thought he hated cats.<\/p>\n

\u201cC\u2019mon Buck, let\u2019s go ask momma for some cream.\u201d Adam said standing and heading towards the kitchen.<\/p>\n

Ben followed quietly, he knew he was eavesdropping, but he wanted to see this side of Adam. The one he had kept hidden away, or maybe the one that hadn\u2019t existed. He stood in the entryway and watched as Adam approached his wife, wrapping his arms around her waist and kissing her neck slightly.<\/p>\n

\u201cMorning Ella Bell. Smells good in here.\u201d He kissed her again, running his hands over her apron.<\/p>\n

\u201cWere having Eggs, bacon, and apple turnovers. I hope your family likes to eat.\u201d She said turning to meet his mouth.<\/p>\n

Adam laughed out loud, then went to stir the eggs. \u201cBuck wants some cream, do we have any left?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cYep, check the ice box.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cHa ha. See there kitty, I told you momma would help us out.\u201d Adam said grabbing a bowl and retrieving the cream. The cat meowed its delight as the cream was added to the bowl, and Adam noticed his father.<\/p>\n

\u201cMorning Pa, sleep well?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cSure did. I was woken by the smell of fine cookin. I almost thought I was back on the Ponderosa.\u201d<\/p>\n

Adam laughed. \u201cDon\u2019t let Hop Sing hear you say that, he\u2019s liable to get the first boat back to China. Too bad he couldn\u2019t come for a visit also, I would of like to a seen him again. Maybe next year right.\u201d
\n\u201cMaybe next year. Anyway, Hop Sing isn\u2019t much for traveling. He said after coming here to America, he would never travel a long distance again.\u201d<\/p>\n

They all turned as Hoss entered the room signing praise.<\/p>\n

\u201cMMM something sure smells good in here. I\u2019m so hungry I could eat a horse!\u201d Hoss exclaimed as he came into the kitchen.<\/p>\n

\u201cWell that\u2019s good, cause that\u2019s just what we\u2019re having big little brother. I don\u2019t know if you knew, but horse is a delicacy here in Boston. It\u2019s a special event to have horse meat with your eggs in the morning.\u201d Adam dimpled as he watched his brother frown and gulp.<\/p>\n

\u201cYou all eat horses out here?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cSure. Tastes a lot like chicken actually, once you get past the tough skin.\u201d<\/p>\n

Hoss looked slightly green as Adam burst out laughing. Elizabeth smacked his back side with the spatula, causing him to jump in the air.<\/p>\n

\u201cYou leave your brother alone Adam. Don \u2018t worry Hoss, on the menu is eggs, bacon and apple turnovers.\u201d Elizabeth answered, returning Adam\u2019s playful scowl.
\nBen watched in awe. He loved this side of his son. He wished he could bring him home with him to the Ponderosa. Maybe by the end of the trip he could convince him that that would be best. But now he had plans to build a house, he owned his own company, Elizabeth ran her own business. But, a father could always hope.<\/p>\n

\u201cThat sounds awful good ma\u2019am. Should I go wake Joe?\u201d Hoss asked smiling at his older brother, glad to see this playful side of him.<\/p>\n

\u201cIt\u2019s not ma\u2019am, it\u2019s Elizabeth, or Ella. And yes, breakfast will be ready shortly. I would appreciate it if you would wake him.\u201d Elizabeth smiled.<\/p>\n

\u201cYes ma\u2019am, uh, Elizabeth.\u201d Hoss said wringing his hands and walking towards Joe\u2019s room.<\/p>\n

I disheveled Joe made his way to the breakfast table and plopped into his seat. Adam laughed, and Ben scowled. Joe was a guest in his brother\u2019s house, and here he came, looking like he hadn\u2019t even combed his hair or shaven before he came to the table.<\/p>\n

\u201cJoseph, just what do you think you are doing!\u201d Ben thundered.<\/p>\n

Elizabeth\u2019s eyes opened wide at Ben\u2019s tone, and she looked to Adam for understanding. He took her hand under the table and squeezed, giving her a reassuring smile.<\/p>\n

\u201cComing to breakfast Pa.\u201d Joe answered reaching for a glass of milk.<\/p>\n

\u201cOh no you don\u2019t young man. You march yourself back to that room and do not even think of coming back out here until you are properly attired.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cPa, I\u2019m dressed!\u201d Joe answered wide eyed, looking himself over.<\/p>\n

\u201cGo to the mirror and look again! Now get!\u201d Ben boomed, sending Joe\u2019s chair sliding from the table. Elizabeth startled and squeezed Adam\u2019s hand tighter. He had a small smile playing on his lips, which he quickly hid when his father looked towards him.<\/p>\n

Hoss waited rather impatiently for his brother to return so the meal could be served.<\/p>\n

Joe came back to the table this time, much better kempt. The group bowed their heads as Adam led the prayer. The food was passed around the table, and soon the apartment was filled with sounds of chatter. Adam remained silent as he watched his family interact amongst each other and his wife. He had a longing in his heart for all of them to be together, but knew that they now had a life here in Boston. He couldn\u2019t ask her to leave the only home she had ever known to travel halfway across the country to the West. It was still far to dangerous for her there, he would hate to put her in that situation. But his heart ached to be near his family. Elizabeth had none left, she was the last surviving relative of a rather small family.<\/p>\n

\u201cAdam, you remember that time you fell of the roof when we were playing parachute?\u201d Hoss asked laughing, bringing his brother out of his reprieve.<\/p>\n

\u201cI don\u2019t believe I fell, I think I jumped. The sheet was supposed to open, and I was supposed to float down.\u201d Adam answered, taking a bite of his cold eggs.<\/p>\n

\u201cBoy did you get into trouble.\u201d Hoss laughed pounding the table.<\/p>\n

\u201cWhat happened honey?\u201d Elizabeth hollered to be heard over the loud laughter.<\/p>\n

\u201cWell, it was right after Pa had married Marie and brought her to the Ponderosa. She had this fancy sheet set for their bed. Hoss and I had snuck into a circus, and one of the acts involved a parachute that looked a lot like this sheet Marie had. So Hoss and I decided\u2026\u2026\u2026\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cIt was your idea brother. I didn\u2019t have no part in it.\u201d Hoss interjected looking at his father.<\/p>\n

\u201cOkay. So I decided to climb up on the roof, and try and jump off using that sheet as a parachute. Well the sheet slammed shut, and I fell to the ground, just as Pa and Marie walked out the front door. The sheet ended up ripped, I broke my ankle, and after my ankle was set, Pa broke my tail.\u201d Adam said staring hard at his father.<\/p>\n

Hoss laughed harder seeing his older brother stare down his father, and his father stare back.<\/p>\n

\u201cYou disobeyed me. You were not allowed on the roof for one, you took Marie\u2019s sheet without permission for two, that was deceit, and then you blamed her for the sheet not opening, saying if it had been better quality it would have worked, that was disrespect! You\u2019re lucky you still have a tail to sit on!\u201d Ben said, pointing a stern finger at his oldest.<\/p>\n

\u201cAdam, you broke all three of Pa\u2019s three D\u2019s!\u201d Joe said, shock registering in his face.<\/p>\n

\u201cThree D\u2019s?\u201d Elizabeth asked, eyebrows furrowed.<\/p>\n

\u201cDisrespect, Dishonesty, and Disobey.\u201d Adam answered looking back to his plate and scooting his eggs around. \u201cWell, I figure a broken ankle was punishment enough. I was laid up for weeks.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cWell, when you have kids of your own, and they turn out just like you, you can tell me just what type of discipline you think is enough.\u201d Ben chided returning to his meal.<\/p>\n

Elizabeth smiled at the exchange between this family. She could tell they were so full of love. At the mention of children, her heart jumped. She wanted them so badly, but had not yet gotten pregnant. She wondered of the reason, but knew in God\u2019s time they would be blessed.<\/p>\n

The Cartwright\u2019s spent the day walking the city. Ben told them stories of his days in Boston, then of he and Adam before they left for the West. Stopping in front of a large building made of brick and stone, Adam leaned against the wall waiting for his father to finish his story. Elizabeth had stayed behind as she had work to do, designing a line of dresses for a company, the deadline was the end of the week.
\n\u201cAlright brother, we stopping for a rest or what?\u201d Joe asked when he noticed they were no longer moving.<\/p>\n

\u201cI wanted to show you something.\u201d Adam smiled, his foot resting against the side of the building.<\/p>\n

\u201cOkay, well let\u2019s get moving then.\u201d Joe was always antsy, especially when there was so much to see.<\/p>\n

\u201cWe\u2019re already there. I wanted to show you this.\u201d Adam said stepping away from the building and motioning to the bank.<\/p>\n

\u201cWhat? The bank?\u201d Hoss asked, giving his brother the raised eyebrow look that was so much like his father.<\/p>\n

\u201cTake a look at that plaque there.\u201d Adam gestured pointing at the plaque that he had been covering while leaning against the building.<\/p>\n

\u201cCartwright Enterprise, 1864.\u201d Joe read, staring at the plaque, shock registering on his face as he stood back to study the large building. \u201cYou mean this is one of yours?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cThis is my first design. The very first building I built in this city.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cAdam, this is amazing.\u201d Ben said noticing the details along the top of the building and along the corners. Tears filled his eyes as he realized his son had reached his dream. As a child he had spent hours designing houses and buildings just like this.<\/p>\n

\u201cHow many have you built now Adam?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cWith Jimmy, I\u2019ve designed fifteen, but those he took credit for of course. Those are known as Kings designs. We worked together on those. By myself I only have five so far. They\u2019re spread out across the city. My dream is to build for the college, I\u2019d love to design a dorm for the students.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cThat\u2019s a fine idea son.\u201d Ben said running his fingers along the Cartwright plaque.<\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019m very proud of you Adam.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cThanks Pa.\u201d Adam said putting his arm around his father\u2019s shoulder.<\/p>\n

\u201cWell I don\u2019t know about you boys but I\u2019m beat.\u201d Ben said as they saw Adam\u2019s last building. They had taken a stage to the last few buildings, but they had walked quite a ways that day. It wasn\u2019t only the walking that had done Ben in, it was the excitement, the memories, and the feelings of overwhelming pride for his son. He was in bad need of rest as they once again filed into the stage. The sun was setting, as Adam suggested they head back home for the evening.<\/p>\n

\u201cAwe Adam, I wanted to see that saloon.\u201d Joe said, pushing his brother\u2019s shoulder, knocking him into Hoss.<\/p>\n

\u201cJoe, it\u2019s been a long day, we still have two weeks almost, you\u2019ll see it.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cYeah, but I wanted to see it tonight. C\u2019mon, it\u2019s still early. What, you getting old older brother?\u201d Joe challenged.<\/p>\n

\u201cI am old Joe, and your getting there. But, I guess I could manage a trip to the saloon. Why don\u2019t we drop Pa off, and we\u2019ll head out there. Do you mind Pa?\u201d Adam asked, looking at his father under his lashes.<\/p>\n

\u201cI don\u2019t mind. I\u2019m gonna turn in anyway.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cWhat about you Hoss? You up for the trip?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cI could use a beer or two.\u201d<\/p>\n

Joe whooped, causing Ben to pinch the bridge of his nose. Adam wondered if that\u2019s where he got that habit from.<\/p>\n

\u201cYou boys be careful, don\u2019t get in any trouble!\u201d Ben chided as he headed for the bedroom.<\/p>\n

\u201cElizabeth, we\u2019re going to The Peerson\u2019s, you coming along?\u201d Adam asked, kissing his wife who was in her sewing room.<\/p>\n

\u201cI think I will. I haven\u2019t seen you all day!\u201d She said, dropping the dress she had been sewing. \u201cJust give me a minute to change.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cADAM!\u201d Joe practically shouted.<\/p>\n

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

\u201cShe can\u2019t come to the saloon! She\u2019s a woman!\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cYes. She likes it there. It\u2019s not a problem Joe.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cBut\u2026\u2026\u2026\u201d
\n\u201cOkay, I\u2019m ready. Let\u2019s go boys.\u201d Elizabeth said, wearing a short knee length dress with her hair tied half up, half down.<\/p>\n

\u201cYou look great.\u201d Adam said wrapping her up in a hug.<\/p>\n

Hoss and Joe shook their heads as the two headed out the door. Ben thankfully was already in his room. They couldn\u2019t imagine how their father would react seeing her dressed that way, and going to a saloon!<\/p>\n

They walked down a few blocks to a large brick building called The Peerson\u2019s. After paying a fee to get in, (which Hoss and Joe scoffed at), they looked around the first floor. The music was slow, and there was a large dance floor. Many couples were slow dancing, some kissing on the dance floor as they went along. Adam asked if they wanted to spend some time there, but both men shook their heads quickly. The took the stairs to the second floor. There was a live band, playing popular Bostonian music. The style of dress was different than Hoss and Joe had seen, and they felt very under dressed. They made their way quickly to the stairs, but noticed Adam and Elizabeth lagging behind. They were mingling with some of the patrons, so Hoss and Joe went up the stairs alone. Getting to the top level, the floor had a western theme. The style of dress was over the top, but the music was better. Hoss went to the bar and ordered four beers as they waited for Adam and Elizabeth to arrive.<\/p>\n

\u201cHey boys, so what do ya think?\u201d Adam asked as he picked up his beer, handing Elizabeth hers.
\n\u201cKind of over the top don\u2019t ya think?\u201d Joe laughed watching the \u2018saloon girl\u2019 saunter past.<\/p>\n

\u201cI warned you. There idea of western society is a little exaggerated.\u201d Adam said laughing as Hoss was kissed on the cheek by another saloon girl wearing a large red feather in her hair.<\/p>\n

\u201cWhy don\u2019t you boys look around a bit.\u201d Adam suggested as he turned back to Elizabeth.<\/p>\n

Joe and Hoss made there way around the large room. There was a large piano in the corner of the room, a tune they didn\u2019t recognize rang out on the keys. Tables lined the back walls, it looked like several different types of card games were being played. The men at the tables honed cowboy boots, vests and several different styles of cowboy hats, all varieties a little exaggerated. One man referred to himself as Billy the kid, as they walked by, Hoss guffawed as Joe pushed him past the table. They made their way back to the bar, but Adam and Elizabeth were no where in sight. Scanning the room, they caught sight of Adam\u2019s black hat. He was at a table in the back. Two beers sat in front of him, Elizabeth across from him, and both of them held a handful of cards. Joe and Hoss looked at each other, both wide eyed, a woman playing cards! They had seen this only a few times, but never someone as respectable as Elizabeth! And she being Adam\u2019s wife at that! They approached the table as Elizabeth raised the pot one dollar.<\/p>\n

\u201cI see your dollar and raise you two more pretty lady.\u201d The man to Elizabeth\u2019s left said, throwing his money into the middle.<\/p>\n

\u201cCall.\u201d Adam chimed in, eyeing his wife carefully.<\/p>\n

\u201cJust what are you doing older brother?\u201d Joe asked tapping his brother on the shoulder.<\/p>\n

\u201cPlaying five card stud Joe.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cI see that. I didn\u2019t know you were a gambling man, especially with your wife present.\u201d Joe said as the cards were shown, the game going to Elizabeth.<\/p>\n

\u201cYour deal.\u201d Adam said passing the deck to his wife. \u201cWhat do you say we up the bet, five dollars a game.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cYour on.\u201d Elizabeth smiled as she passed around the cards.<\/p>\n

\u201cAdam!\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cYou in Joe, Hoss?\u201d Adam asked motioning to the seats that just emptied.<\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019m in big brother.\u201d Hoss said sitting down next to Elizabeth. Joe took the seat next to Adam, picking up the hand he was dealt.<\/p>\n

\u201cGet ready to lose your money boys.\u201d Elizabeth teased, scanning her cards and smiling.<\/p>\n

Joe raised his eyebrows and rolled his eyes to Hoss who simply shrugged.<\/p>\n

\u201cThat\u2019s it, I\u2019m busted.\u201d Hoss said scooting his chair back from the table. Adam simply smiled at him as he studied the cards in his hands.<\/p>\n

Joe scowled at his cards, then looked to Elizabeth who had most of his money in front of her. Between she and Adam, he only had a few dollars left. His hand only held a pair of ten\u2019s, and he knew he was beat.<\/p>\n

\u201cCall.\u201d Adam said as he lay his cards face up on the table. \u201cPair of Ace\u2019s, Pair of Kings.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cShoot!\u201d Elizabeth hollered as she threw down her pair of Queens and Jacks.<\/p>\n

Joe slammed his cards on the table as the last of his money went to Adam.<\/p>\n

\u201cAnother beer Joe?\u201d Adam smiled as his brother pushed off from the table just as Hoss had, only his wasn\u2019t as good natured as Hoss had been.<\/p>\n

\u201cYou two can\u2019t be that lucky. Hoss and I never even won a hand!\u201d Joe said angrily, grabbing his beer and taking a gulp. \u201cYou never even played poker at home, know your some kind of pro!\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cWhat are you trying to say little brother?\u201d Adam asked, a small smile playing on his lips.<\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019m not trying to say anything. I just think something isn\u2019t right that\u2019s all.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cHmm. Well, you win some, you lose some. How about that beer.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cFine.\u201d<\/p>\n

Adam motioned for another round of beer as they stood from the table. They walked towards the bar, Joe lagging far behind, a definite pout on his face.<\/p>\n

\u201cWell sweetheart, what do you say we call it a night?\u201d Adam asked, putting an arm around his wife.<\/p>\n

\u201cHow about a dance first?\u201d She asked leaning towards him.<\/p>\n

\u201cJoe, Hoss, you know how to get back?\u201d Adam asked pulling her close to him.<\/p>\n

\u201cI think we can manage older brother.\u201d Hoss laughed, happy his brother was enjoying himself so much. Joe simply shrugged as he downed his final beer.<\/p>\n

\u201cWe\u2019ll see you in the morning then.\u201d He smiled, pulling his wife into a soft kiss.<\/p>\n

They made their way to the bottom floor. It was getting late, so the crowd had dwindled to half the size. Elizabeth lay her head on his shoulder as they danced slowly to the soft music that surrounded them. The effects of the beer made her head swim, giving her the feeling of floating as his strong arms encircled her. She pressed herself to him, not being able to feel close enough. He kissed her hair as they kept in time to the music.<\/p>\n

Joe and Hoss made their way back to the apartment. Joe was fuming. He had lost nearly one hundred dollars to his brother and Elizabeth. That was nearly all the money he had brought with him. He was thinking of how he was going to hide this fact from his father when the apartment loomed in front of them. Hoss opened the door and entered first.<\/p>\n

\u201cAren\u2019t you upset Hoss? They played us for fools!\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cIt was just a game little brother. I only played twenty dollars. I could tell they were good. I don\u2019t know how to play five card stud very well. Besides, I\u2019m not much for gambling anyway.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cWhat do you mean you only played twenty dollars! I lost nearly one hundred! Pa\u2019s gonna kill me when he finds out!\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cYou should of quit before you lost so much Joe, it ain\u2019t Adam\u2019s fault. Go to bed Joe, we\u2019ll figure something out in the morning.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cIt is Adam\u2019s fault, he should a quit letting me play!\u201d Joe said, sounding much like a petulant child. Hoss snorted at him and walked into his room, shutting his door quietly. Joe stomped to his room, nearly slamming the door.<\/p>\n

\u201cThanks for a wonderful evening beautiful.\u201d Adam said holding hands with his wife as they walked back to the apartment.<\/p>\n

\u201cI don\u2019t think Joe was to happy about it.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cYou don\u2019t. How could you tell?\u201d Adam laughed, remembering Joe\u2019s attitude as he left the saloon.<\/p>\n

\u201cYou know he was awfully upset about losing all that money. You could have told him before hand that we don\u2019t play for keeps.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cNah. That would take the fun out of it. When he was young, he would badger me for hours to take him to town so he could gamble. Pa would a killed me if he knew I took him there for that. A little payback between brothers never hurt.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cOh Adam, you three! Watching you with your family makes me wish I had some brothers or sisters growing up. I love the way you tease and carry on. I can see your love for each other in your eyes.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cI don\u2019t know what I\u2019d do if I didn\u2019t have them. My family is what pulled me through after so much tragedy. I love them.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cAnd they love you.\u201d<\/p>\n

Elizabeth went to the bedroom when they arrived home. Adam snuck first to Hoss\u2019s room, sliding his twenty back into his wallet. Then he made his way to Joe\u2019s room, seeing him asleep, he sighed. He found his wallet and slipped in one hundred dollars along with a note that said \u2018we don\u2019t play for keeps little brother. Love you too much. Adam and Elizabeth\u2019 He knew Joe wouldn\u2019t find it until he needed some money, and he smiled at the scowl that would be on Joe\u2019s face all morning. Finally, he made it to his own bed, collapsing next to his wife.<\/p>\n

Chapter 17<\/p>\n

Ben woke up alone, sitting in the parlor he drank his cup of coffee. The house was silent, and he cherished the moment he had alone. He stared at the fireplace, then around the room.<\/p>\n

\u201cPa!\u201d The toddler yelled as he crawled towards his father who sat reading the newspaper in his favorite chair. The ten month old loved to read with his father, anything he could get his hands on.<\/p>\n

\u201cWhat is it Adam, you want to read with your Papa?\u201d Ben smiled, scooping his son onto his lap.<\/p>\n

\u201cEad.\u201d Adam smiled, patting the paper with his small hands.<\/p>\n

\u201cWhere would you like to begin?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cDis.\u201d
\nHe began reading the article that Adam that his son had chosen, then went on to read several more. The child sat silently, his head cocked to the side as he occasionally watched his father\u2019s mouth sound out the words.<\/p>\n

\u201cDone.\u201d Adam said as his father closed the paper, and set it on the table beside him.<\/p>\n

\u201cYes, all done. Down ya go.\u201d He set him on the floor and watched him crawl away.<\/p>\n

\u201cBenjamin!\u201d Captain Stoddard called as he entered the house, hanging his hat and coat on the hook.<\/p>\n

\u201cGwandfafa!\u201d Adam squealed tearing towards him as fast as his knees would carry him.<\/p>\n

\u201cHello laddie, how was your day?\u201d He asked bending towards him. Using his pant legs, Adam pulled himself to stand, babbling away at his grandfather. Laughing at the conversation his grandson was having with him, he scooped him high into the air tickling his tummy.<\/p>\n

\u201cCaptain. Looks like he\u2019s got a lot to say.\u201d Ben laughed, as his son continued his tirade.<\/p>\n

\u201cAs he does. Benjamin, a man came in the store today, he made an amazing offer to outfit his ships. We must celebrate!\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cThat\u2019s wonderful. Did you hear that Adam, we had a good day at the shop!\u201d Ben smiled, clapping his hands towards his young son.
\nAdam clapped back, laughing as drool made its way down his chin and on to his grandfather\u2019s hands.<\/p>\n

\u201cIs he teething again Benjamin. Seems like that\u2019s all he\u2019s been doing lately.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cWell, he has been drooling a lot. But he hasn\u2019t been fussy, and no fever. Let me take him, I\u2019ll take a feel.\u201d<\/p>\n

Abel gave Adam to his father who stuck his finger in the child\u2019s mouth to feel for new teeth. Adam frowned and furrowed his brows.<\/p>\n

\u201cBen, I don\u2019t think he likes that.\u201d Abel warned, seeing the look that crossed Adams face.<\/p>\n

\u201cAh, I think I found it Ben said pressing on the small edge of a tooth that seemed to be popping through. Instantly the small mouth clamped down. The few teeth Adam had sunk into his finger. \u201cOuch! Adam, open your mouth. No bite!\u201d Ben stormed, yelling out.<\/p>\n

Adam bit down harder, his eyes filling with tears as his father shouted at him.<\/p>\n

\u201cADAM!\u201d Ben yelled, trying to pull open his son\u2019s mouth. Adam would not budge. Thinking of nothing else he could do and his finger now throbbing, Ben smacked the back of his leg near his bottom. Adam let out a howl, thus releasing his finger.<\/p>\n

\u201cThat was naughty Adam, you do not bite Papa!\u201d Ben lectured as he sat in the chair, the child on his knee as he rubbed his back.<\/p>\n

Adam continued to yell, large tears dripping from his eyes.<\/p>\n

\u201cHe doesn\u2019t understand Benjamin, you hurt him with your finger in his mouth. He reacted the only way he knew how.\u201d Abel lectured walking towards the devastated child. He removed him from Ben\u2019s lap and walked him around the room, bouncing him up and down and patting his back. \u201cIt\u2019s okay laddie, you\u2019re alright now, grandfather\u2019s got you. You should be ashamed of yourself Benjamin Cartwright, spanking the child like that.\u201d Abel chastised.<\/p>\n

Ben held his finger, small teeth marks shown deep in the skin. One of them bleeding. \u201cHe wouldn\u2019t let go of my finger! What was I to do? Let him bite it off!\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cDon\u2019t be ridiculous, he wouldn\u2019t have bitten it off. You should have told him what you were doing. I believe you owe this child an apology.\u201d<\/p>\n

Adam had calmed down in his grandfather\u2019s comforting hold, and rested his head on his shoulder. His hiccupping breaths were coming further in between now as Ben walked towards him. He held out his arms and Adam went to him.<\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019m sorry Adam, I shouldn\u2019t have smacked you, and I should have told you what I was going to do. Are you okay baby?\u201d Ben said now rocking his son in his arms.<\/p>\n

\u201cPa turt.\u201d Adam answered, grabbing his father\u2019s lip.<\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019m sorry.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cSowwy.\u201d Adam smiled. \u201cDub.\u201d<\/p>\n

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

\u201cDown.\u201d<\/p>\n

He set his son on the floor and watched him crawl away and nodded at the captain. Adam made his way to the chair and pulled himself to stand. They both watched as he studied the pipe that lay on the table a few steps away. He reached a hand toward it, but it was too far out of reach. He held onto the chair and took a step toward it, then reached again. It was still too far away. Letting go of the chair, he stood on his own. He took one wobbly step forward, and reached out again. Ben and the Abel held their breath as the child took his first steps. He took another two steps, and reached his prize. Ben was on him in a minute, removing the pipe from his hands, and cheering his accomplishment. Abel stood on his other side, clapping him on the back.<\/p>\n

\u201cYou walked Adam!\u201d Ben smiled, laughing as Adam clapped and cheered with his family.<\/p>\n

\u201cWalk!\u201d Adam exclaimed, his dimples shining bright.<\/p>\n

\u201cBoy are we in trouble now Benjamin. This one\u2019s definitely gonna keep us on our toes!\u201d Abel said, a serious expression now on his face.<\/p>\n

\u201cHey Pa, you looked miles away.\u201d Adam said as he sat next to his father, a cup of coffee in his hands.<\/p>\n

\u201cI was just wool gathering. You know, you learned to walk right here in this very spot.\u201d Ben smiled, patting his son\u2019s knee.<\/p>\n

\u201cDid I?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cYes, you were trying to get a hold of my pipe. Took three steps to get to it.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cYou let me get your pipe.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cOnly for a moment. You were so proud of yourself, and you didn\u2019t even know why. You had actually just gotten in trouble for biting me. I was checking for a tooth, and you were upset so you bit me. You wouldn\u2019t let go, so I popped your bottom, then Abel yelled at Me! I got in trouble for you biting me. Your grandfather always did take your side.\u201d Ben laughed, putting an arm around his sons shoulder.<\/p>\n

\u201cNot always. There was a time I made him so angry he took his belt to me.\u201d Adam said looking over his coffee cup at his father.<\/p>\n

\u201cWhat!?\u201d \u201cYep, came home drunk. He was so disappointed and angry in me. I thought you swung a mean strap. I never crossed grandfather that way again.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019m sure you didn\u2019t.\u201d Ben said, remembering himself in that same predicament more than once.<\/p>\n

\u201cDid you boys have a good time last night?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cElizabeth, Hoss and I did. Joe seemed to leave in a bit of a temper though. But, I\u2019m sure he\u2019ll get over it.\u201d Adam grinned, hearing the house starting to wake.<\/p>\n

\u201cWhat was he upset about?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cOh, you know Joe. I\u2019m going to start breakfast, any requests?\u201d Adam said quickly redirecting the situation.<\/p>\n

\u201cNo, anything would be fine. Thank you.\u201d<\/p>\n

The table conversation was rather light as all were pretty tired from the evening spent the night before. Joe of course was not in the best of moods. Hoss was the only one who had seconds of the flap jacks prepared by his brother.<\/p>\n

\u201cWho taught you to cook there brother. When you left, you couldn\u2019t make a flap jack to save your life.\u201d Hoss said reaching for the last flap jack on the plate.<\/p>\n

\u201cElla taught me the tricks of course. I can make a lot of things now. You\u2019d be surprised big little brother.\u201d Adam laughed, drinking the last of his milk.<\/p>\n

\u201cI wouldn\u2019t trust ya, I remember when you tried to make that bread for Pa\u2019s party.
\nI think someone broke a tooth on it.\u201d Joe said with slight agitation in his voice.
\nAdam smiled, he knew Joe would be upset this morning, it was all part of the game.
\n\u201cYeah, like I said last night, you win some ya lost some.\u201d He snickered. He was met with a piercing glare as Joe shoved another bite into his mouth to stifle any further comment in front of his father.<\/p>\n

\u201cI thought we\u2019d spend the day at the harbor, if your up to it. I need to see Jimmy this afternoon, and Judy is dying to see you all again. They said they would meet us there.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cSounds fine son.\u201d Ben smiled as Adam began clearing the dishes.<\/p>\n

Joe stood at the shore throwing small stones into the water. He spent some time with Judy and Jimmy, but he was too young to remember much about her. He was only five when Judy had gone on to college. He remembered Adam getting in some trouble right before she left. The day seemed to pass slowly for him, and soon he began to wander near the stores along the road near the shore. Going into a store with models of ships in the windows, he saw a particular ship that brought up some memories for him. He remembered Adam reading him a story about a pirate that sailed a ship, and the ship he imagined looked just like this one in the window. He checked the price tag, but saw that it was more money than he had left. Well, maybe he had some stashed in the side pocket, he sometimes kept money hidden there. He quickly pulled out his wallet to check when he saw it was full. The money he had lost the night before was all there. Attached was a note, hand written by his brother. He read it slowly, his eyes tearing up as he read the last part. \u2018We love you too much.\u2019 Adam these days was always quick to say those words. How many years Joe had longed to hear those words. He bought the boat, then a card, and walked out to find his family. They were standing on the beach, preparing to head home.<\/p>\n

\u201cHey Joe, find something you like there?\u201d Adam asked, seeing the bag in his brother\u2019s hands.<\/p>\n

\u201cSure did older brother.\u201d Joe said with a smile and nod. His eyes giving his thanks to his older brother. Adam returned the smile and nod, walking home with his arm around his little brother\u2019s shoulder.<\/p>\n

The weeks passed by quickly, too quickly for all of them. They visited museums, art shows, the zoo. Hoss loved the zoo, but he was upset that the animals were stuck in the cages as they were. Today they were set to go home, the breakfast table was silent as they all fought the emotions swirling within them. Finishing breakfast, Elizabeth set to clearing the table, Adam and Ben stood doing the dishes together. That chore done, they went to gather the bags.<\/p>\n

\u201cI wish you didn\u2019t have to go so soon.\u201d Elizabeth said to Ben as she took his arm, heading to the station.<\/p>\n

\u201cThose weeks just flew by didn\u2019t they.\u201d Ben said watching his sons walk side by side in front of him, Adam in the middle.<\/p>\n

\u201cHe is happy here Ben. You see that don\u2019t you.\u201d Elizabeth whispered, guilt washing over her.<\/p>\n

\u201cI see that plain as the sun rise dear. I know this is his home now. All I want is for him to be happy.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cThat\u2019s all I want for him too. I know he\u2019s going to miss you terribly. I just feel so guilty.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cWhy would you feel guilty? His company is here as well. He wants to stay here Elizabeth.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cBut he wants to be with you as well. I just wish he could have both.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cWe both do, but, we will just have to settle for visits once in a while. We will continue to write as we always do. I\u2019m so glad we were able to meet you. Adam is a very lucky man.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cThank you Ben. That means so much to me. I feel like I\u2019m the lucky one.\u201d Elizabeth smiled, watching her husband push his little brother off the side walk. The banter continued all the way to the station.<\/p>\n

\u201cWell, this is it I guess.\u201d Adam said, trying to keep up his emotional front.<\/p>\n

\u201cYep, we got a long road ahead of us older brother. We\u2019ll write as soon as we get home.\u201d Hoss said pulling his brother into a tight hug.<\/p>\n

\u201cGood, I\u2019ll be expecting it. Maybe we can work out a visit sometime soon.\u201d Adam said returning the hug forcefully and blinking away the tears.<\/p>\n

\u201cWe\u2019re gonna miss ya Adam. It ain\u2019t the same only having Hoss to beat in checkers. I liked having the two of you to beat.\u201d Joe said taking his turn with the hugs.<\/p>\n

Adam smiled, hugging his brother tighter, feeling his composure slip as a tear trekked down his cheek.<\/p>\n

Joe pulled back and whispered into Adam\u2019s ear. \u201cI left you a present at the house, it\u2019s in the kitchen. Don\u2019t open it until your alone, understand.\u201d Joe said looking into his brother\u2019s eyes. Seeing his tears, Joe startled a bit, he didn\u2019t know Adam had been crying. His own eyes now welled, as he pulled him towards him once again. \u201cI love ya Adam.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cLove you too.\u201d Adam choked out. He coughed to clear his throat as he turned towards his father. \u201cPa.\u201d He said stepping close for a hug.<\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019ll miss you son. I\u2019m so proud of you and all your accomplishments. You continue your work here. I expect a letter at least once a month.\u201d Ben said before pulling his son to him.<\/p>\n

Adam couldn\u2019t speak so instead he nodded his head. He sank into his father, Elizabeth standing behind him rubbing his back. He cried quietly into his shoulder as the stage man called out boarding. Hoss and Joe handed up the baggage, allowing the two men time alone.<\/p>\n

\u201cI don\u2019t want you to go Pa.\u201d Adam said against his father\u2019s shoulder.<\/p>\n

\u201cI don\u2019t want to go.\u201d<\/p>\n

Adam laughed, pulling away and wiping his eyes. \u201cGive Sport a treat for me alright. And tell Hop Sing I miss him.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cI will son.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cI love you Pa.\u201d Adam said, his voice cracking again.<\/p>\n

\u201cI love you Adam. You take care of that wife of your\u2019s, she is a special one.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cShe sure is.\u201d Adam dimpled, glancing at his wife who was standing at the window of the stage speaking with Hoss and Joe.<\/p>\n

\u201cYou better board Pa, there gonna pull out soon. I\u2019ll write you real soon.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cAlright. I expect a letter to be waiting for me when I get home.\u201d Ben smiled patting his son\u2019s neck one last time. He turned towards the stage and boarded. Seeing the stage finally full, the driver pulled out in a hurry. Adam stood with his wife and waved until the stage was out of sight.<\/p>\n

\u201cYou okay?\u201d She asked, seeing him wipe away another tear.<\/p>\n

\u201cI will be.\u201d He answered, flicking away another annoying tear.<\/p>\n

\u201cLet\u2019s go home sweetie.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cJoe left me a gift.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cHe did?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cUh huh, in the kitchen. I wonder what they\u2019ll do when they find theirs?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cWhat you give them?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cI gave Pa that old pocket watch I found that was engraved to grandfather, I gave Hoss that old whittling set that belonged to Pa when he lived here before, and I gave Joe my old gun belt, the one that he love so much before I came to college. I had it altered so it would work for a lefty.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cOh Adam, that was sweet, and you snuck it in their bags?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cSure did. They won\u2019t find it until their next stop.\u201d He laughed, linking arms with his wife as they made their way home.<\/p>\n

Adam made his way to the kitchen when he saw the bag on the table. He opened it quickly to find a pirate ship from the shop at the harbor. A card sat on the sail, and he opened the envelope.<\/p>\n

Dear Adam,<\/p>\n

I saw this ship in the window of the store, instantly I had memories of you and I. I was snuggled in your bed for a story after a session with Pa, and you were reading me a book about pirates. You were always able to make any story come alive, and this story stuck out in my mind. I could see the ship, the sails, the deck, the crew. The moment I saw this ship in the window, I knew it was the one from that book.
\nThank you Adam for all those years you took care of me. Thank you for encouraging my imagination and dreams, and making me the man I am today. I don\u2019t think I tell you enough how much you mean to me Adam. Every time you look at this ship, I pray it reminds you of us and the bond that we have that will never be broken. I love you brother.<\/p>\n

Little Joe<\/p>\n

Elizabeth walked in to the kitchen and saw the ship on the table. Adam sat staring into the parlor, a card held in his hands. A smile played on his lips, a far away look in his eyes.<\/p>\n

\u201cIs this the gift from Joe?\u201d She asked, running her fingers through his hair.<\/p>\n

\u201cIt\u2019s more than a gift. Did I ever tell you how lucky I am to have a family like I do?\u201d He said turning his head up towards her.<\/p>\n

\u201cYou didn\u2019t have to tell me, I could see it.\u201d She said bending down for a kiss.<\/p>\n

\u201cI love you Ella Bell. Sit down here with me a minute would you? We have a few letters to write.\u201d He said pulling her onto his lap.<\/p>\n

\u201cBut Adam, they only just left.\u201d She laughed.<\/p>\n

\u201cYes, but there\u2019s already so much to say.\u201d He smiled as he dipped her backwards, kissing her neckline.<\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019ll get the paper.\u201d She said returning the gesture. \u201cIn a few minutes.\u201d She smiled, hinting at another idea.<\/p>\n

\u201cOnly a few?\u201d He asked, his eyebrows raised?\u201d<\/p>\n

Her laugh echoed around him as he lifted her from the chair, walking her towards the bedroom.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

This timeline is continued my series, Fatherhood<\/a>.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Return to\u00a0Preserving their Legacy Home Page<\/a><\/p>\n

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

Summary:\u00a0 Adam’s journey back to the Ponderosa after graduating college.\u00a0 Check out my story “The College Years.”
\nRating:\u00a0 T\u00a0(47,185 words)<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":12436,"featured_media":41001,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"template-full-width-post.php","format":"standard","meta":{"jetpack_post_was_ever_published":false,"_jetpack_newsletter_access":"","_jetpack_dont_email_post_to_subs":false,"_jetpack_newsletter_tier_id":0,"_jetpack_memberships_contains_paywalled_content":false,"_jetpack_memberships_contains_paid_content":false,"footnotes":""},"categories":[2,1005,23,3],"tags":[],"class_list":["post-45644","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-actionadventure","category-adam-cartwright","category-drama","category-romance","wpcat-2-id","wpcat-1005-id","wpcat-23-id","wpcat-3-id"],"a3_pvc":{"activated":true,"total_views":624,"today_views":1},"jetpack_featured_media_url":"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/03\/Preserving-Their-Legacy.png?fit=732%2C477&ssl=1","jetpack_likes_enabled":true,"jetpack-related-posts":[{"id":46841,"url":"https:\/\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/?p=46841","url_meta":{"origin":45644,"position":0},"title":"The First Day of Spring (by Adamfan16)","author":"Preserving Their Legacy Author","date":"December 6, 2004","format":false,"excerpt":"Summary:\u00a0This is an expanded Bonanza Bit I did this spring, to the title prompt. 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Rating:\u00a0 G Words:\u00a0 1400 Part of Legacy Series, links included within","rel":"","context":"In "Adam Cartwright"","block_context":{"text":"Adam Cartwright","link":"https:\/\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/?cat=1005"},"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":47845,"url":"https:\/\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/?p=47845","url_meta":{"origin":45644,"position":2},"title":"Snow, Falling Softly (by Adah)","author":"Preserving Their Legacy Author","date":"December 17, 2003","format":false,"excerpt":"Synopsis:\u00a0Hoss communes with Nature while thinking about the unique characteristics of each member of his family and their ties to the land. Rating:\u00a0 G Words:\u00a0 1,200","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\/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":45170,"url":"https:\/\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/?p=45170","url_meta":{"origin":45644,"position":3},"title":"Water (by VRON)","author":"Preserving Their Legacy Author","date":"March 25, 2000","format":false,"excerpt":"Summary: Just brief musings from Ben. (Written in response to a challenge some time last year.) (actually years ago) Rating:\u00a0 G\u00a0 \u00a0Words:\u00a0 1,045","rel":"","context":"In "Ben Cartwright"","block_context":{"text":"Ben Cartwright","link":"https:\/\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/?cat=1004"},"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":45151,"url":"https:\/\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/?p=45151","url_meta":{"origin":45644,"position":4},"title":"Pharoah (by VRON)","author":"Preserving Their Legacy Author","date":"March 24, 2000","format":false,"excerpt":"Summary: A young Adam on the trail west has his first pet and learns a valuable lesson. 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