{"id":47189,"date":"2003-12-31T15:18:46","date_gmt":"2003-12-31T20:18:46","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/?p=47189"},"modified":"2025-02-27T12:08:38","modified_gmt":"2025-02-27T17:08:38","slug":"shattered-lives-by-kimberley","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/?p=47189","title":{"rendered":"Shattered Lives (by Kimberley)"},"content":{"rendered":"

Adam is forced to face the truth about a woman he once loved.
\nRating:\u00a0 Teens
\nWords: 7,900<\/span><\/p>\n

<\/p>\n

\n

The Brandsters have included this story by this author in our project: Preserving 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

Shattered Lives<\/strong><\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cJoseph,\u201d Ben warned, his voice firm. \u201cHow many times do I have to tell you to keep your feet off the furniture?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYes, Pa,\u201d Joe murmured distractedly, not looking up from the newspaper as he slowly lowered his feet from the settee to the floor.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWhen\u2019s supper?\u201d Hoss asked, coming down the stairs and flopping into the chair beside the fireplace. \u201cI\u2019m plumb starved.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cIt\u2019ll be at the same time it is every day,\u201d Ben answered, glancing up from his book with a slightly amused smile. \u201cYou don\u2019t think Hop Sing is going to rearrange his schedule just because you finished your work early, do you?\u201d He didn\u2019t need to take his eyes from his middle son to notice Little Joe\u2019s boot-clad feet as they slowly made their way once again to their favourite spot on the settee. \u201cJoseph,\u201d he warned again.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cNo, I reckon I don\u2019t,\u201d Hoss sighed, answering his father\u2019s question while absent-mindedly propping his own feet on the table in front on him. \u201cNext time I\u2019ll work a might slower. It\u2019s harder to think about food when you\u2019re busy.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Joe noticed Hoss\u2019 feet on the table and waited gleefully for his father\u2019s admonition. When none was forthcoming, he opened his mouth to protest, only to be silenced by a knock on the door.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019ll get it,\u201d he grumbled, casting a pointed glance in the direction of the table as he got to his feet. \u201cReally, Hoss, how many times does Pa have to tell you to keep your feet of the furniture?\u201d He shook his head in mock disappointment as he made his way to the door. He was surprised to find Roy Coffee waiting on the other side.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cEvening, Little Joe,\u201d Roy offered a small smile while he shook the young man\u2019s hand. \u201cBen,\u201d he nodded in further acknowledgement as he entered the house. \u201cHoss.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Ben got to his feet to greet his friend. \u201cRoy,\u201d he nodded, shaking the lawman\u2019s hand. \u201cWhat brings you out here? Good news, I hope.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019m afraid not,\u201d Roy replied with a sigh, taking his hat from his head and distractedly fidgeting with it. \u201cI\u2019ve come to talk to Adam. Is he here?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cHe\u2019s upstairs washing up,\u201d Ben frowned. \u201cWhat\u2019s this all about?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019d just as soon wait for Adam,\u201d Roy answered reluctantly.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019ll get him, Pa,\u201d Joe offered, already heading for the stairs. Taking them two at a time, he was outside his brother\u2019s room in an instant. \u201cAdam?\u201d he called.<\/span><\/p>\n

The door opened to reveal a shirtless Adam, a towel in one hand, an expectant look on his face.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cRoy Coffee\u2019s here,\u201d Joe informed him. \u201cSays he needs to talk to you.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam frowned slightly, grabbing his shirt from a hook beside the door before following his youngest brother down the hallway toward the stairs.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cRoy,\u201d Adam smiled in greeting as he approached the man, distractedly buttoning his shirt. \u201cWhat\u2019s up?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Roy was silent for a moment, his expression grim. \u201cI\u2019m afraid it\u2019s bad news, Adam,\u201d Roy finally explained. \u201cAppears someone tried to kill Margie Dowler today.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cMargie?\u201d Adam frowned. \u201cIs she all right?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cDoc Martin doesn\u2019t know if she\u2019ll survive,\u201d Roy informed him. \u201cShe was beaten real bad, Adam.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cBeaten?\u201d Ben repeated, frowning. \u201cWhat happened?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Roy ran a hand through his thinning hair before replying. \u201cSomeone dumped her by the side of the road out by Willard\u2019s Bluff,\u201d Roy explained. \u201cI reckon he either thought she was already dead or at least would be \u2018fore anyone found her. Luckily, Brett Moyer was on his way home from Pinewood Falls this afternoon. If he hadn\u2019t come along when he did, it\u2019s likely she would have died right there.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWho would do somethin\u2019 like that?\u201d Hoss asked, frowning.<\/span><\/p>\n

Roy glanced at Adam only briefly before turning his attention once more to the hat in his hands. \u201cI asked her,\u201d he informed them grimly. \u201cBut she was near unconscious by the time Brett got her to town.\u201d He raised his eyes to look into Adam\u2019s. \u201cThe only thing she kept repeating was your name, Adam.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cMy name?\u201d Adam repeated in slight confusion. \u201cWhy? I hadn\u2019t even seen her in at least a month.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cBut before that the two of you was pretty close,\u201d Roy pressed, his eyes narrowing slightly. \u201cIt\u2019s no secret around town that you was courtin\u2019 her.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cThat\u2019s right,\u201d Adam replied, his eyes hardening slightly as he held Roy\u2019s gaze. \u201cIt\u2019s no secret. Just as it\u2019s no secret that things didn\u2019t work out between us.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cIt was a few months that you was together, wasn\u2019t it?\u201d Roy prodded.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cRoy, I don\u2019t see\u2026\u201d Ben tried to intervene, only to be silenced by his eldest son.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cIt\u2019s all right, Pa,\u201d Adam assured him before turning his attention back to the sheriff. \u201cThat\u2019s right,\u201d he confirmed. \u201cI courted Margie for about four months. Just what are you getting at, sheriff?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Roy winced inwardly at the word. Though Adam usually called him Roy, it wasn\u2019t the first time he had called him by the title of sheriff. This time, however, the word was spoken in such a tone as to indicate without a doubt that his visit was not being viewed as that of a family friend, but rather as a lawman, one who found it necessary to ask difficult questions.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cMaybe it would be best if we could talk in private,\u201d Roy suggested delicately.<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam glanced at his father and brothers. \u201cThere\u2019s nothing you can\u2019t say in front of my family,\u201d he replied, his voice hinting at impatience. \u201cTell me, Roy, do you think I beat Margie Dowler?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cOf course not,\u201d Roy replied indignantly, waving a hand as though to brush the notion aside. \u201cI know you well enough to know that you\u2019d never do such a thing.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWell, I appreciate that,\u201d Adam replied caustically. \u201cBut that being the case, what exactly is it you are trying so carefully to avoid saying?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Roy glanced uneasily at Ben before turning his attention back to Adam. \u201cShe was with child, son,\u201d he finally stated in a quiet voice. \u201cDoc Martin figures about three months along.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

There was a heavy silence in the air as Joe and Hoss exchanged concerned glances and Ben gazed in disbelief at Roy.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cRoy, exactly what are you implying?\u201d he demanded, his voice laden with anger and incredulity.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cJust doing my job, Ben,\u201d Roy defended his actions quietly. \u201cEveryone knows about Margie and Adam. When I learn that she was \u2026 in such a delicate condition, I have to do some figurin\u2019. They was together during that time and now she\u2019s layin\u2019 in Doc Martin\u2019s office near death.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Ben turned his attention to Adam who still stood with an expectant expression on his face as though he hadn\u2019t heard the news, or was hoping that if he waited long enough, it would be different. \u201cAdam,\u201d he pried gently, putting a hand on his son\u2019s arm.<\/span><\/p>\n

The action seemed to snap Adam out of his state of shock and anger. \u201cShe was what?\u201d he demanded in a cold, quiet voice.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019m sorry, Adam,\u201d Roy offered sincerely. \u201cI thought you should know.\u201d He paused for a moment. \u201cJeb Dowler\u2019s demanding I bring you in. Now I don\u2019t think that\u2019s necessary just now, but I do strongly suggest you stay out of town for the time being.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI want to see Margie,\u201d Adam stated without hesitation.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cSon, maybe Roy\u2019s right\u201d Ben suggested. \u201cRunning into the Dowler brothers just now will only cause more trouble.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cPa, she could be dying,\u201d Adam pointed out. \u201cI need to see her and I can\u2019t take the chance of waiting until the Dowlers are ready to listen to reason. I\u2019m going.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI can\u2019t stop you,\u201d Roy stated his position. \u201cBut if you\u2019re going to be in town tonight, I\u2019m afraid I\u2019ll have to insist you stay at the jail.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cJail?\u201d Joe demanded angrily, taking a step forward only to be stopped by Hoss\u2019 hand on his arm. \u201cYou just said you know he didn\u2019t do it.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cAnd I don\u2019t believe he did,\u201d Roy agreed. \u201cNot for a second. But when I asked Margie who it was beat her, she said Adam\u2019s name over and over \u2013 and in front of witnesses. Now I can\u2019t just ignore that. Besides, if either of her brothers truly believe it was Adam who did it, they might try to take the law into their own hands. It\u2019s as much for his protection as anything else.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Ben knew that Roy was right. It wasn\u2019t only the Dowlers they had to worry about, but anyone else who might believe Adam to be guilty of such a heinous crime. At the same time, he understood his son\u2019s need to speak to the woman he\u2019d once loved \u2013 possibly still did. \u201cWe\u2019ll all go,\u201d he stated decisively.<\/span><\/p>\n

********
\nBy the time they reached Virginia City, night had fallen and the only sounds of life came from the saloon where ranch hands celebrated the end of another hard day. A few men stood on the boardwalk outside the Bucket of Blood and whispered among themselves as they saw the Cartwrights ride into town with the sheriff. Ignoring the wary glances and hushed comments, they stopped in front of the doctor\u2019s office and dismounted. Doc Martin greeted them as they entered the outer office.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI don\u2019t think you should be here just now,\u201d he frowned in Adam\u2019s direction.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cPaul, you don\u2019t honestly think\u2026\u201d Ben began to protest.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cOf course not,\u201d the doctor assured him, raising a hand. \u201cBut Jeb Dowler\u2019s in there with her. He\u2019s full of shock and anger. Who knows what he might do.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

As though on cue, Jeb Dowler opened the door to the inner office and stood staring at Adam. \u201cYou\u2019ve gotta lot of nerve coming here, Cartwright,\u201d he growled in a low voice. \u201cI should kill you where you stand for what you\u2019ve done.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cThere ain\u2019t gonna be no killing, Jeb,\u201d Roy stated in a tone of authority. \u201cAdam just wanted to see how Margie is doing.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYou want to see how she\u2019s doing?\u201d Jeb spat, flinging the door open. \u201cLook at her, Cartwright. Look at what you did to her!\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

It was concern, not curiosity, that caused Adam to take a step toward the room. Through the open door, he could see someone lying on the narrow examination table, but he couldn\u2019t recognize the battered figure as that of the Margie Dowler he knew.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cGood God,\u201d he breathed, his heart tearing at the sight of her. Swallowing hard, he turned his attention to Jeb. \u201cYou must know I couldn\u2019t have done this,\u201d he stated evenly.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYours was the only name she gave,\u201d Jeb whispered fiercely. \u201cWhat happened, Adam? Did you find out she was carrying your child? Were you afraid of what that would mean to the precious Cartwright reputation?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Hoss noticed his little brother\u2019s fists clenching at his sides and put a hand on his arm. When Joe looked up at him, his eyes flashing green with anger, Hoss only shook his head slightly.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cIt was nothing like that,\u201d Adam tried to explain.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYou tossed her aside like so much trash,\u201d Jeb continued to rant. \u201cOnly you didn\u2019t know at the time that she was carrying your dirty little secret. You couldn\u2019t take the chance that someone would begin to suspect what was going on, so you tried to kill her.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cLiar!\u201d Adam shouted, lunging at Jeb as he momentarily lost the control he\u2019d always prided himself on. As Ben restrained Adam, Hoss and Joe stepped forward to stand on either side of Jeb.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cThat\u2019s enough!\u201d Roy barked. \u201cJeb, you should be with your sister.\u201d Turning to Adam, he added, \u201cI think it\u2019s best you leave for now. She can\u2019t talk to you tonight.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam looked over at Doc Martin. \u201cAny idea when she could wake up?\u201d he asked.<\/span><\/p>\n

The doctor merely shook his head. \u201cI won\u2019t lie to you, Adam,\u201d he replied. \u201cAt this point I\u2019m not even sure she will wake up. She suffered a lot of injury to her head. I have no idea how much damage may have been done.<\/span><\/p>\n

At the words, Jeb made a move toward Adam, only to be stopped by Hoss and Little Joe. \u201cYou\u2019ll pay for this, Cartwright!\u201d Jeb yelled at the top of his lungs. \u201cIf it takes the rest of my life, I\u2019ll make sure you pay for this!\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam hung his head briefly and let out a long, weary sigh. After glancing once more at the figure of the woman on the bed, he turned and left the office with Roy, his father and brothers close behind.<\/span><\/p>\n

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

Though Ben gently tried to persuade Adam to return to the Ponderosa for the night, he wasn\u2019t altogether surprised when his eldest son expressed his desire to stay in town where he would be close in the event Margie woke up.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI ain\u2019t gonna lock you up, Adam,\u201d Roy explained as they entered the sheriff\u2019s office. \u201cBut I don\u2019t want you wanderin\u2019 around town neither.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam only nodded his understanding of the situation and crossed the room to where a coffee pot sat on the stove. After pouring himself a cup, he made his way into the cell room and sat on the edge of one of the cots, leaving the door open.<\/span><\/p>\n

Roy and Ben followed him and stood at the open doorway. \u201cI\u2019d suggest you keep that gun handy, son. You know yourself that Jeb is the easier of the two to get along with,\u201d Roy pointed out. \u201cYou saw the way he was tonight. When Zack gets here, things could get a whole lot worse.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cCan\u2019t say as I blame them,\u201d Adam muttered, taking off his hat and setting his cup on the floor. \u201cAfter seeing Margie tonight, I can\u2019t blame them a bit.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cTheir feelings may be justified,\u201d Ben agreed, \u201cbut that still doesn\u2019t give them the right to take their anger and grief out on the most convenient target.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam didn\u2019t reply, but laid back on the cot, his forearm covering his eyes. Ben realized the myriad of emotions he was struggling with and quietly gestured to Roy to wait in the outer office. Roy caught the silent message and nodded as he left Ben alone with his oldest son.<\/span><\/p>\n

Ben took a chair into the cell and sat down. \u201cI can only imagine what you must be feeling,\u201d he began gently. \u201cTo see Margie like that\u2026\u201d His voice trailed off briefly as he closed his eyes against the image of the disfigured face. \u201cIt\u2019s a terrible thing.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam didn\u2019t answer, but Ben could see the lump in his throat bobbing up and down as he tried to control the feelings at war within him. \u201cAnd to find out that she was\u2026\u201d He couldn\u2019t finish the sentence out of compassion for his son. \u201cWell, we can talk about that another time,\u201d he frowned slightly. \u201cThe important thing right now is to find out what happened. Do you have any idea who might want to harm her, son? Do you know of anyone, anyone at all who could have done something like this?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cIf I knew,\u201d Adam replied, forcing the words through clenched teeth. \u201cDo you think I\u2019d be here instead of out looking for him?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Ben nodded at the response. \u201cNo,\u201d he surmised with a small sigh. \u201cNo, I guess you wouldn\u2019t.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI don\u2019t want to talk, Pa,\u201d Adam informed him in a strangled voice. \u201cPlease\u2026 Just leave me alone.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Ben considered the request for a moment, then nodded as he got to his feet. \u201cOk, son,\u201d he replied gently. \u201cIs there anything you need?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

When he didn\u2019t reply, Ben nodded once again. \u201cI\u2019ll be in the outer office,\u201d he stated.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cDid he say anything?\u201d Joe asked as his father closed the door to allow Adam some privacy with his thoughts.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cNothing,\u201d Ben sighed. \u201cHe doesn\u2019t want to talk about it right now.\u201d After taking a deep breath, he glanced around the room. \u201cWhere\u2019s Roy?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cHe went back down to the doc\u2019s office,\u201d Hoss explained. \u201cHe\u2019s got a few more questions for Jeb.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Joe poured his father a cup of coffee and handed it to him as Ben lowered himself into a chair.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI don\u2019t get it, Pa,\u201d Hoss voiced his thoughts aloud. \u201cWho would do that to Margie? She\u2019s got to be one of the nicest, sweetest gals in Virginia City.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cNo one would expect her to have any enemies,\u201d Joe concurred quietly. \u201cI can\u2019t see her doing or saying anything that would provoke such a reaction.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cOften all we see is what others want us to see,\u201d Ben pointed out calmly. \u201cWe really don\u2019t know what kind of trouble she may have had in her life. All we know is what we learned about her when she and Adam were together.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Hoss and Joe exchanged glances at the words. \u201cSpeaking of that, Pa,\u201d Joe reluctantly broached the subject, \u201cYou don\u2019t think Adam\u2026 I mean, you don\u2019t believe\u2026.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Ben weighed the unfinished question for a moment. \u201cYou boys all had different mothers,\u201d he began quietly. \u201cYou each inherited characteristics from them that make you different in many ways, but you were all brought up to believe in the same morals and standards that they held dear, just as I do. I\u2019ve never once doubted the kind of men you are. I\u2019m not about to start now.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Joe and Hoss exchanged a look between them before lowering their eyes to the floor. \u201cYou\u2019re right, Pa,\u201d Joe offered quietly. \u201cI\u2019m sorry.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cMe too, Pa,\u201d Hoss added. \u201cIt\u2019s not that we actually thought\u2026\u201d He allowed the words to trail off, not sure how to express the thought. \u201cIt\u2019s just that Margie is such a nice girl. I can\u2019t see her\u2026\u201d He changed approaches again. \u201cWell, it just doesn\u2019t make sense if what Doc Martin says is true.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI have no doubt that it\u2019s true,\u201d Ben assured him, frowning. \u201cPaul Martin is both a good man and a good doctor.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWhy didn\u2019t Adam just come straight out and say it wasn\u2019t his?\u201d Joe demanded, a tinge of anger to his voice. \u201cHe denied having anything to do with trying to kill her, but he didn\u2019t even address the matter of the child. Don\u2019t you think that\u2019s going to give the Dowlers all the more reason to think he\u2019s responsible?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYour brother shouldn\u2019t have to deny anything to us,\u201d Ben stated firmly.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cNot to us, Pa, to everyone else,\u201d Joe corrected his father. \u201cYou saw the way they were whispering when we came into town. The longer he avoids confronting the rumours, the worse they\u2019re going to get.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cPeople are going to whisper whether they know the truth or not,\u201d Ben pointed out in a stern voice. \u201cIf I were you, I\u2019d worry less about the rumours and more about your brother.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Joe turned away from his father in frustration, running a hand angrily through his hair.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cJoe is worried about Adam,\u201d Hoss interjected. \u201cWe all are. That\u2019s exactly why we don\u2019t want to hear folks saying things about him that ain\u2019t true. As long as he don\u2019t deny knowin\u2019 anything about that baby, folks are gonna think he had a reason to try and kill her.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI understand what you\u2019re both saying,\u201d Ben assured them in a calm voice. \u201cBut the only one who can address the situation is Adam. Until he\u2019s ready and willing to do that, there\u2019s nothing we can do about what people say or think.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Joe and Hoss both contemplated the words for a moment. \u201cI reckon he got hit with two awful big surprises today,\u201d Hoss mused sympathetically.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cHe\u2019s strong,\u201d Ben assured them, nodding his head slowly. \u201cHe\u2019ll have to deal with the truth about Margie, whatever it is.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Joe made his way toward the door, only to be stopped by his father\u2019s voice.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWhere do you think you\u2019re going?\u201d Ben demanded.<\/span><\/p>\n

Joe turned to look first at Hoss and then at Ben. \u201cMargie may never be able to tell us the truth,\u201d he replied in a flat voice. \u201cI\u2019m going to see if I can find it out for myself.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cHow ya gonna do that?\u201d Hoss asked, frowning slightly.<\/span><\/p>\n

Joe shrugged. \u201cI guess I\u2019ll start with Mrs. Brandon at the boarding house. She probably knows Margie as well as anyone.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Ben considered the suggestion for a moment. \u201cYes,\u201d he mused thoughtfully. \u201cMargie often stayed there when the boys were out of town.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019ll go with ya,\u201d Hoss offered.<\/span><\/p>\n

Joe looked at his father for approval.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cGo ahead,\u201d Ben finally stated. \u201cI\u2019ll stay here in case the Dowlers come looking for trouble.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Hoss and Joe nodded as they headed out the door into the night.<\/span><\/p>\n

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

It was obvious that Mrs. Brandon hadn\u2019t been expecting visitors. Her plump form was wrapped in a robe and her salt-and-pepper hair hung loosely to her waist.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cLittle Joe! Hoss!\u201d she exclaimed in mild surprise as she opened the door. \u201cWhat on earth brings you here this time of night?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cSorry to bother ya, ma\u2019am,\u201d Hoss apologized as both men entered the foyer and removed their hats.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWe wanted to ask you a few questions about Margie Dowler,\u201d Joe explained patiently.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cThat poor dear,\u201d Mrs. Brandon clucked sympathetically. \u201cI heard what happened. Who would do such a thing to such a nice young lady?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cThat\u2019s what we\u2019re aimin\u2019 to find out, ma\u2019am,\u201d Hoss replied. \u201cDo ya know anyone who would want to harm her?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Mrs. Brandon shook her head without hesitation. \u201cEveryone loves Margie,\u201d she pointed out. \u201cIt\u2019s just a terrible, terrible thing.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Joe glanced at Hoss, unsure as to how much the older woman knew. \u201cDo you remember anything that might have happened a couple of months ago?\u201d he asked. \u201cDid Margie have any unusual visitors during that time? Did she seem upset at all?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Mrs. Brandon frowned in concentration as she thought back. With a sad smile, she recalled the most recent month that Margie had spent at the boarding house. \u201cThe thing I remember most was the amount of time your brother, Adam, spent here,\u201d she recollected. \u201cI was sure the two of them would be married by now. They seemed so happy until\u2026\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cUntil?\u201d Hoss prodded gently as the woman\u2019s words trailed off and her small smile was replaced with a frown.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI just thought they\u2019d had a lover\u2019s quarrel,\u201d Mrs. Brandon replied as she brought the memories forth. \u201cShe came in upset and ran up to her room in tears, refusing to even let me in, let alone try to comfort her. I thought they\u2019d make up and things would be as they were.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cBut they stopped seeing each other,\u201d Joe surmised, remembering his eldest brother\u2019s irritable disposition during that time.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cNo,\u201d Mrs. Brandon shook her head slowly as she tried to remember things in the right order. \u201cIn fact, Adam was here the very next day and acted as though nothing was wrong. When I called Margie down, she refused to see him. He tried to talk to her, but she wouldn\u2019t even open the door.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cAnything else you remember?\u201d Hoss asked hopefully.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cShe did see him a few times after that,\u201d Mrs. Brandon added, \u201cbut things were never the same. She seemed to be trying to push him away and then one day he stopped calling on her altogether. I guess that\u2019s when it actually ended.\u201d She shook her head sadly. \u201cI was so sure they were on the road to marriage.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cDid anyone else call on Margie?\u201d Joe asked intently.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYou mean after Adam?\u201d Mrs. Brandon frowned. \u201cNo. After that, she didn\u2019t keep company with anyone. She was only here another week and then Jeb came home and she went back out to the house.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWhat about while Adam was seeing her?\u201d Hoss asked delicately, lowering his eyes as though ashamed of asking the question.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cHeavens no,\u201d Mrs. Brandon frowned, shaking her head vehemently. \u201cMargie wouldn\u2019t even look twice at another man, not while she and Adam were courting. She\u2019s just not that kind of girl, Hoss.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Hoss nodded and offered a slight smile. \u201cThank you, ma\u2019am,\u201d he offered, putting his hat on and reaching for the doorknob.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWe\u2019re sorry to have disturbed you,\u201d Joe added, following his brother\u2019s lead.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI sure hope she\u2019s going to be all right,\u201d Mrs. Brandon clucked, tears welling in her eyes.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWe all do,\u201d Hoss added gently. \u201cGood night, ma\u2019am.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Once they were alone on the porch, Joe let out a deep breath. \u201cWe didn\u2019t exactly learn anything new there,\u201d he sighed.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cThere\u2019s only two people who know what happened between Adam and Margie,\u201d Hoss stated, summing up the little information they had. \u201cI reckon if we want to know more, we\u2019re gonna have to ask one of them.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cAnd she\u2019s not in any shape to talk to us,\u201d Joe added.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWhich leaves only one,\u201d Hoss concluded. \u201cLet\u2019s go.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

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

When they returned to the jail, they found Roy and Ben talking over a cup of coffee.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cAny news?\u201d Hoss asked as they entered the room.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cNothing,\u201d Roy answered. \u201cMargie\u2019s the same and Jeb is so sure Adam done it that he couldn\u2019t give me the name of anyone else who mighta.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cMrs. Brandon wasn\u2019t much help either,\u201d Joe stated. \u201cBut she did give us the impression that it was Margie who wanted to end things with Adam.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cHe never really talked about it,\u201d Ben mused. \u201cHe just said it was over and refused to elaborate.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI think we need to find out what happened \u2018tween those two,\u201d Hoss pointed out. \u201cMrs. Brandon says Margie was a might upset.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYou know your brother well enough to know he won\u2019t talk to anyone until he\u2019s good and ready,\u201d Ben reminded his middle son. \u201cIf he didn\u2019t want to discuss it at the time, I doubt he\u2019ll change his mind now.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cIf Margie dies, he may find himself having to discuss it in front of the whole town, not to mention a judge and jury,\u201d Roy pointed out grimly.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cUnless we find out who really did it,\u201d Hoss added, moving toward the closed door with an air of determination.<\/span><\/p>\n

*******
\nHe stood for a moment, looking at where his brother sat on the edge of the bed, his head in his hands.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI guess it\u2019s been a tough day,\u201d he forced a small smile of encouragement.<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam looked up and Hoss was taken aback slightly by the haggard lines in his brother\u2019s usually confident expression.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cMargie?\u201d Adam asked simply.<\/span><\/p>\n

Hoss shook his head as he entered the cell and walked over to look out the window. \u201cNo change,\u201d he replied quietly.<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam didn\u2019t reply, but lowered his head to his hands again.<\/span><\/p>\n

Hoss turned to face his brother once again. \u201cMe and Joe talked to Mrs. Brandon,\u201d he explained cautiously.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cAnd?\u201d Adam prodded wearily.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cShe couldn\u2019t tell us much,\u201d Hoss admitted. \u201cBut she did remember the time when you and Margie stopped seein\u2019 each other.\u201d He waited for a moment, but when Adam made no effort to reply, he continued. \u201cShe said Margie was real upset one night and things were never the same after that.\u201d When he still got no response, he tried a more direct approach. \u201cYou know I ain\u2019t one to pry into private matters, Adam, but if Margie dies, there\u2019s gonna be a whole lotta people thinkin\u2019 you were responsible and not one of us is gonna be able to help you if you don\u2019t talk to us.\u201d He paused a moment to allow his words to sink in. \u201cWhat happened \u2018tween the two of you, Adam?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam got to his feet, turning away from his brother to pace in the small cell. \u201cI don\u2019t know,\u201d he finally admitted in a voice tinged with defeat. \u201cAt the time I thought we really loved each other.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Hoss nodded but didn\u2019t reply as he waited for his brother to continue.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI know the night Mrs. Brandon was talking about. I wasn\u2019t with her, but when I called on her the next day, she wouldn\u2019t see me. Mrs. Brandon told me she was upset and that she\u2019d get over it. Instead, she just got so distant,\u201d Adam recollected. \u201cShe told me it was because she just wasn\u2019t ready for a serious commitment. I thought\u2026\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cThought what?\u201d Hoss frowned.<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam took a deep breath and let it out in a ragged sigh. \u201cI thought there was someone else,\u201d he finally admitted, sitting on the cot once again and rubbing his hands over his face. Shaking his head slightly, he allowed a wry smile. \u201cGiven what I learned tonight, I guess maybe I was right.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Hoss swallowed hard as he digested the information, knowing how hard it must be for Adam to talk about. \u201cAny idea who?\u201d he asked gently.<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam slowly shook his head again. \u201cI\u2019ve been sitting here going over everything in my mind. I don\u2019t remember her ever paying attention to anyone in particular. If she was seeing someone else, she did a good job of hiding it.\u201d He paused for a moment without looking up. \u201cGuess that makes me a fool, doesn\u2019t it?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Hoss shifted his weight uncomfortably at the comment. \u201cThe way I see it, trustin\u2019 someone you love don\u2019t make you a fool,\u201d he offered quietly. \u201cI reckon that\u2019s just the way things work out sometimes.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam raised his eyes to his brother\u2019s, a slight hint of surprise and gratitude on his face. \u201cThanks,\u201d he replied, lowering his eyes to his hands once again.<\/span><\/p>\n

Hoss brushed aside the comment as though in embarrassment. After taking a moment to think carefully about his words, he continued, \u201cAdam, there is one other possibility.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam looked up once again, frowning slightly as he waited for his brother to continue.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWell you said yerself Margie didn\u2019t pay no attention to anyone else,\u201d Hoss ventured cautiously. \u201cWhat if\u2026\u201d He shifted uncomfortably again, adjusting his gunbelt as he stalled for time hoping the right words would come. \u201cWell, what if someone else was payin\u2019 attention to her, only without her wantin\u2019 them to?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam\u2019s frown deepened as the words sank in. \u201cYou mean against her will,\u201d he replied quietly, the words coming out as more of a statement than a question. \u201cI\u2019ve thought about that. But who? And why wouldn\u2019t she tell her brothers about it if that were the case? You know how protective they are where she\u2019s concerned.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cIf I didn\u2019t, I sure do now,\u201d Hoss replied grimly.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cIt\u2019s been just the three of them since their folks died a few years back,\u201d Adam explained. \u201cThe boys run the ranch and Margie stays in town with Mrs. Brandon when they\u2019re away\u2026\u201d His voice trailed off as a thought occurred to him.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWhat is it, Adam?\u201d Hoss frowned as he noticed his brother\u2019s expression.<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam didn\u2019t reply, but got to his feet and hurried through the door to the outer office.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019m going out to the Quarter R,\u201d he stated, putting on his hat.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cThe Dowler place?\u201d Roy exclaimed in surprise. \u201cAdam, I can\u2019t let you do that. It would be suicide.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI think someone out there knows exactly what happened to Margie and why,\u201d Adam insisted, his expression grim.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWhat do you mean?\u201d Ben asked intently.<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam began to pace once again, his mind racing. \u201cYou know how protective Jeb and Zack are of Margie. When they had to go out on a cattle drive or something, she always stayed here in town.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cSo?\u201d Joe shrugged. \u201cThey probably didn\u2019t want her out there on the ranch alone.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cThat\u2019s what I thought at one point too,\u201d Adam admitted. \u201cBut I asked her about it once and she explained it differently. She said she didn\u2019t like rambling around the house by herself, that she liked the opportunity to spend some time with Mrs. Brandon. She was always surrounded by men on the ranch and looked forward to the company of another woman.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cThat makes sense to me,\u201d Ben nodded, unable to see exactly what his son was getting at.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cAnd I bought it like a fool,\u201d Adam hissed, obviously angry with himself. \u201cPa, when was the last time you knew a woman who would leave her home unattended for a week at a time or more? If she wanted the company of another woman, she could come into town for a couple of hours and have tea with Mrs. Brandon.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cMaybe she just felt safer here in town,\u201d Hoss offered.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cExactly,\u201d Adam exclaimed. \u201cBut why? You know as well as I do that the Dowlers always have at least four or five hands on the ranch. More than enough to keep an eye on things while she was there by herself.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cUnless it was one of those men she was afraid of,\u201d Ben surmised as realization dawned.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI should have known,\u201d Adam grated, slamming his hand on the corner of Roy\u2019s desk. \u201cAs many times as I called on her at the boarding house, and not once did I question the reasons for her being there.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cIt\u2019s not your fault, son,\u201d Ben assured him, placing a hand on his shoulder. \u201cYou didn\u2019t know. You still don\u2019t for certain.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cMaybe not,\u201d Adam growled, \u201cBut I will.\u201d He strode toward the door, only to be stopped by the sheriff.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cNow let\u2019s not go running off half-cocked,\u201d Roy warned. \u201cEven if what you suspect is true, how do you know who to accuse? If you go out to the Quarter R without more to go on, you\u2019re only going to stir up more trouble.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cAnd what would you have me do, Roy?\u201d Adam demanded angrily. \u201cStay here and wait for someone to come in and offer a confession?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019m gonna go talk to Jeb,\u201d Roy informed them. \u201cI want you to stay here until I get back.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cRoy\u2026\u201d Adam began to protest.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cHe\u2019ll stay,\u201d Ben assured the sheriff, casting a stern look at his son. \u201cI\u2019ll see to that.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cGood \u2018nuff,\u201d Roy nodded as he headed for the door. \u201cBelieve me, Adam. If any of what you said makes sense, we\u2019ll get to the bottom of it.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019ll go with you, Roy,\u201d Joe suggested, following the sheriff to the door.<\/span><\/p>\n

Once they were gone, Adam lowered himself wearily into a chair. \u201cHow could I be so blind?\u201d he lamented quietly. \u201cAll I could think was that her feelings for me had changed. Why wasn\u2019t I able to see what she must have been going through?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cShe obviously didn\u2019t want you to know,\u201d Ben offered in way of reassurance. \u201cMaybe she was afraid that you\u2019d think less of her.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cFor something that wasn\u2019t her fault?\u201d Adam scoffed angrily. \u201cThat\u2019s ridiculous.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Ben shrugged. \u201cPerhaps to you and me,\u201d he allowed. \u201cBut to a young woman in her position, it\u2019s not hard to understand why she wouldn\u2019t want anyone to know.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam swallowed hard at the words, his expression grim as his mind mercilessly tormented him with images of Margie\u2019s battered body as well as the unseen wounds she\u2019d suffered. \u201cJeb was right,\u201d he stated coldly. \u201cWhoever did this deserves to die.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cHe\u2019ll pay for what he\u2019s done,\u201d Ben assured him. \u201cOne way or another, he\u2019ll pay.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Their attention was diverted as Joe burst through the door. \u201cShe\u2019s awake,\u201d he informed Adam breathlessly. \u201cShe\u2019s asking for you.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam hurried from the building, his father and brothers following close behind. When they reached Doc Martin\u2019s office he rushed straight to where Margie lay, ignoring Jeb\u2019s presence at the other side of he bed.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cMargie?\u201d he whispered, wincing at the bruised, swollen face.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cAdam,\u201d she breathed, trying to open her eyes. She grimaced at the pain and he swallowed hard, wishing that he could take her suffering upon himself.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI had to tell you,\u201d she struggled to get the words out, \u201cthat I\u2019m sorry.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYou have nothing to apologize for,\u201d he assured her, touching her forehead gently. \u201cI\u2019m the one who\u2019s sorry. I didn\u2019t know.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Her lips moved, but no sound came out. Mustering all her strength, she forced herself to say all she felt she had to. \u201cI tried to stop him, Adam,\u201d she whispered weakly. \u201cHe was just so strong\u2026\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam closed his eyes tightly against the tears burning behind his lids. \u201cIt\u2019s all right,\u201d he soothed. \u201cI understand.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI couldn\u2019t bear the thought of you finding out,\u201d she continued, her voice faltering as a tear streamed down her cheek, \u201cthat another man had\u2026that I wasn\u2019t\u2026\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam put a finger to her lips, unwilling to hear her put the tragedy into words. \u201cIt wasn\u2019t your fault,\u201d he whispered, no longer trying to hide the tears that spilled from his pain-filled eyes. \u201cIf only I\u2019d known\u2026\u201d He tried unsuccessfully to swallow the lump in his throat. \u201cI would have stood by you, Margie, no matter what.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI didn\u2019t want you staying out of pity,\u201d she lamented.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cNot pity\u2026 love,\u201d he corrected softly. \u201cNothing could have kept me from you if I\u2019d known you still loved me. I thought\u2026\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI know,\u201d she whispered. \u201cBut I had to push you away, Adam. The greatest joy in my life was seeing the love in your eyes. I was so afraid of seeing something else in its place if you knew the truth. I just couldn\u2019t share the guilt and shame\u2026 not with you, Adam. You deserve so much more than that.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cNo,\u201d he whispered, touching her lips lightly with his own. \u201cYou\u2019re more than I deserve. You\u2019re still the girl I fell in love with. Nothing can ever change that.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cThen when I realized I was\u2026 when I found out about the baby, I knew everyone would find out,\u201d she cried softly. \u201cI was so scared\u2026 I didn\u2019t know what to do.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYou should have come to me,\u201d Adam admonished gently.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI just wanted to leave before anyone found out,\u201d she whispered weakly. \u201cHe tried to stop me and when I threatened to tell Jeb and Zack, he just started hitting me\u2026\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Her voice trailed off and he kissed her cheek, his tears falling on her face as he wept for all she\u2019d been through. \u201cIt\u2019s ok, Margie,\u201d he promised. \u201cNo one will ever hurt you again.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

When she didn\u2019t respond, he looked up at the doctor in alarm. Immediately, Doc Martin came to check on her and offered Adam and Jeb as much comfort as he could. \u201cShe\u2019ll likely be in and out for a while,\u201d he stated quietly. \u201cI\u2019ve given her something for the pain.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cIs she going to be all right?\u201d Jeb asked, his eyes not leaving his sister\u2019s face.<\/span><\/p>\n

The doctor was silent for a moment. \u201cNearly every one of her ribs was broken,\u201d he explained as gently as possible. \u201cThere\u2019s no way to tell how many organs have been damaged. Even if I could operate, her chances would be slim. I\u2019m sorry.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Jeb looked at the doctor as though seeing him for the first time. \u201cWhat do you mean \u2018if\u2019? You have to operate. You\u2019re her only chance, Doc.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cShe\u2019s just not strong enough right now,\u201d the doctor explained patiently. \u201cShe lost too much blood when she lost that baby. She\u2019d never survive the type of surgery she needs.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam closed his eyes and swallowed hard as he listened to the conversation. When Margie stirred once again, he took her hand and leaned in close. \u201cMargie?\u201d he whispered. \u201cYou have to tell us who did this. He has to pay for what he\u2019s done to you.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWho was it, Margie?\u201d Jeb asked, taking a deep breath as though afraid to hear the answer.<\/span><\/p>\n

Margie didn\u2019t open her eyes, but swallowed before replying. \u201cClem Morgan,\u201d she finally managed, her voice barely audible.<\/span><\/p>\n

Jeb\u2019s eyes darted to Adam. \u201cClem,\u201d he breathed in disbelief. \u201cHe\u2019s been with us for years.\u201d Turning his attention back to Margie, he pleaded for something that would help him understand.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWhy, Margie?\u201d he asked. \u201cWhy didn\u2019t you tell us?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI didn\u2019t know if you\u2019d believe me,\u201d she replied quietly. \u201cHow could I explain the way he looked at me and how it made me feel? Daddy trusted him. You trusted him. I never knew he\u2019d go that far\u2026 I never knew he could\u2026\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Jeb swallowed hard. \u201cI\u2019ll kill him,\u201d he muttered.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cAfter, I was just afraid,\u201d she admitted, choking on her tears as the truth slowly came forth. \u201cI thought it was my fault. I kept trying to convince myself that it was over and I could just forget it ever happened.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cIt\u2019s all right,\u201d Adam assured her, stroking her forehead gently. \u201cIt\u2019s over now.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cThe hell it is,\u201d Jeb muttered grimly, turning to leave the room.<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam considered trying to stop him, but didn\u2019t want to leave her side. He knew the sheriff was still waiting in the other office and wouldn\u2019t let Jeb go after Clem by himself.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cAdam,\u201d she whispered hoarsely. \u201cI didn\u2019t want to die without telling you that I never stopped loving you.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam looked up at the doctor, only to see him shake his head slightly, his eyes downcast.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI love you, too,\u201d he replied, trying to force a smile. \u201cOnce you\u2019re up and around, things will be like they were.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI wish that could be,\u201d she mused, her voice growing weaker. \u201cWe were so happy, weren\u2019t we, Adam?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYes,\u201d he whispered, taking her hand in his and kissing it lightly. \u201cWe were happy. We will be again.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cAdam?\u201d she called quietly. \u201cAdam? Are you there?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

He squeezed her hand tighter. \u201cI\u2019m right here, Margie,\u201d he assured her.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cAdam?\u201d she repeated.<\/span><\/p>\n

As her hand went limp in his, he hung his head as the doctor came to check her pulse. \u201cI\u2019m sorry, son,\u201d he finally stated in a quiet voice.<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam looked at her face, trying to convince himself that she was at peace despite the physical evidence of the trauma he saw there. As the reality of the situation hit home, he allowed the silent tears to fall, oblivious to the doctor who was quietly leaving the room.<\/span><\/p>\n

When he emerged from the room a while later, Ben was waiting, a concerned expression on his face. \u201cAre you all right, son?\u201d he asked gently.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI was so wrong, Pa,\u201d Adam choked on his emotion. \u201cI believed she stopped loving me\u2026 I was so wrong.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Without a word, Ben went to his son and embraced him in a comforting hug, closing his eyes tightly as he felt Adam\u2019s hands clutching his back in desperation. They stood like that for a moment, father and son, one trying in vain to console, the other lost in the throes of unspeakable pain.<\/span><\/p>\n

When at last he pulled away, Adam hastily wiped the unfamiliar tears from his face. \u201cIt was Clem Morgan,\u201d he stated flatly.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYes, I know,\u201d Ben nodded. \u201cRoy and your brothers went with Jeb to bring him in. It\u2019s hard to believe. He was one of Jack Dowler\u2019s closest friends.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cOld enough to be her father,\u201d Adam hissed, clenching and unclenching his fists subconsciously. \u201cWhat kind of a man does something like that?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cA very disturbed one,\u201d Ben answered. \u201cBut rest assured, he\u2019ll get what\u2019s coming to him.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam thought about the words for a moment before raising his eyes to meet his father\u2019s gaze. \u201cWill that be enough?\u201d he asked quietly.<\/span><\/p>\n

Before Ben had a chance to reply, the door burst open and Zack Dowler stormed into the office, his gun drawn. \u201cYou,\u201d he hissed at Adam. \u201cWhat have you done?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cZack,\u201d Ben warned. \u201cYou\u2019ve got it all wrong. Adam didn\u2019t have anything to do with what happened to your sister.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cThat\u2019s not what Jeb\u2019s wire said,\u201d Zack retorted, his gaze still locked on Adam. \u201cHe said you tried to kill her.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cIt wasn\u2019t me,\u201d Adam explained calmly. \u201cIt was Clem Morgan. Margie told Jeb right before\u2026\u201d He searched for the right words. \u201cZack, Margie died a few minutes ago. I\u2019m sorry.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Zack\u2019s expression went from anger to disbelief and back again. \u201cThat\u2019s a lie!\u201d he shouted, pushing past the Cartwrights to see his sister. When he returned, his face was a mask of pain and disbelief. \u201cYou\u2019ll die for this, Cartwright,\u201d he glared, raising the gun he still held. Ben lunged at him, trying in vain to deflect his arm before the first shot rang out. As he struggled with the armed man, he could see his son falling out of the corner of his eye. Seconds later, another shot rang out. As the man went limp, Ben allowed him to slump to the floor and turned to see Little Joe standing in the doorway, his gun in his hand.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cAdam,\u201d Ben breathed, rushing to his son\u2019s side.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019m all right, Pa,\u201d Adam assured him, his hand over his left shoulder. \u201cI think it went through.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Joe knelt beside him and checked the back of his shoulder. \u201cYou\u2019re right,\u201d he agreed. \u201cI\u2019ll get Doc Martin. He\u2019s down at the jail breaking the news to Jeb.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

As he hurried out the door, Ben helped Adam to his feet and into a nearby chair before going to check on Zack Dowler.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cHe\u2019s alive,\u201d Ben observed, checking the man\u2019s pulse.<\/span><\/p>\n

When Joe returned, he brought not only the doctor, but Hoss and Jeb with him. \u201cLet\u2019s get him into that room,\u201d Doc Martin suggested, nodding toward the room adjacent to the one where Margie\u2019s body still lay. Hoss and Jeb complied, carrying the injured man into the empty room while Ben grabbed some antiseptic and bandages from the doctor to treat Adam\u2019s wound.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019m sorry, Adam,\u201d Joe offered. \u201cAbout Margie.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam only nodded in acknowledgement. \u201cWhat about Clem?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cRoy\u2019s got him locked up down at the jail,\u201d Hoss replied.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cIs he going to live?\u201d Adam asked, nodding toward the room where the doctor was working on Zack. \u201cI think that family\u2019s gone through enough for one day.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cHe\u2019ll live,\u201d Ben assured him. \u201cLucky for us, your brother\u2019s a good shot.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cLucky for all of us,\u201d Jeb\u2019s voice infiltrated the conversation. Walking to where Adam sat in the chair, he extended his hand almost tentatively. \u201cI\u2019m sorry,\u201d he offered as Adam returned the handshake. \u201cWhen Margie said your name, I just thought\u2026\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI understand,\u201d Adam replied graciously. \u201cI would have felt the same way in your position.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cMaybe Margie was right,\u201d Jeb acknowledged sadly. \u201cI never would have believed Clem to be capable of something like this.\u201d He turned to glance briefly into the room where Margie lay. \u201cWe promised ma and pa we\u2019d watch over her,\u201d he mused, his voice catching in his throat.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYou can\u2019t blame yourself,\u201d Ben soothed gently. \u201cThere\u2019s only one man responsible for all this and he\u2019ll pay with his life.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYeah,\u201d Jeb acknowledged in a quiet voice. \u201cHe\u2019ll pay for what he\u2019s done.\u201d He glanced toward his sister\u2019s body once more, tears welling in his eyes. \u201cShe shouldn\u2019t have had to.\u201d Without another word, he slowly walked back to the room where Doc Martin was still tending to his brother\u2019s injury.<\/span><\/p>\n

Ben finished bandaging Adam\u2019s shoulder and helped him with his shirt. \u201cLet\u2019s go home, son,\u201d he suggested gently.<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam got to his feet and took his hat from Joe. As his father and brothers left the office, he slowly walked into the room where Margie lay. After placing a soft kiss on her forehead, he gently brushed a stray hair from her cheek. \u201cI\u2019m sorry I ever doubted you,\u201d he whispered. \u201cBut I\u2019ll never stop loving you.\u201d Choking back fresh tears, he gazed at her face for the last time, seeing only the beauty he\u2019d once known. With a silent, final good bye, he turned and left the room.<\/span><\/p>\n

The End.<\/span><\/p>\n

<\/div>\n

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

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

Adam is forced to face the truth about a woman he once loved.
\nRating:\u00a0 Teens
\nWords: 7,900<\/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_newsletter_access":"","_jetpack_dont_email_post_to_subs":false,"_jetpack_newsletter_tier_id":0,"_jetpack_memberships_contains_paywalled_content":false,"_jetpack_memberships_contains_paid_content":false,"footnotes":"","jetpack_post_was_ever_published":false},"categories":[1005,23],"tags":[],"class_list":["post-47189","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-adam-cartwright","category-drama","wpcat-1005-id","wpcat-23-id"],"a3_pvc":{"activated":true,"total_views":514,"today_views":0},"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":47189,"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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