{"id":5133,"date":"2014-04-30T15:34:10","date_gmt":"2014-04-30T19:34:10","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/?p=5133"},"modified":"2025-02-18T19:12:54","modified_gmt":"2025-02-19T00:12:54","slug":"the-hunted-woman","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/?p=5133","title":{"rendered":"The Hunted Woman (by SallyAnn)"},"content":{"rendered":"

Summary: <\/span>Hoss helps a woman escape from her controlling and conniving cousins. This leads to a blossoming romance, and danger! Written for a friend, so please excuse the quasi-Mary Sue bits!<\/p>\n

Rated: K+ (5,790 words)<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

The Hunted Woman<\/strong><\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI think it\u2019d be best if you just stopped right there, mister,\u201d Hoss\u2019 low drawl and a quick click of a gun cocking back was enough to make the other man halt for a moment. Hoss breathed evenly and slowly–calm for holding a gun to the back of another man\u2019s head. \u201cJust let the lady go, and undo your gunbelt,\u201d he continued.<\/p>\n

The other man slowly released the tight grip he held on the petite woman\u2019s wrist. Her eyes were wet with unshed tears and were open wide, full of fear and awe. Hoss noticed the woman twisting her wrist in her other hand, nursing the bruise forming there. He tried to give her a slight nod, wanting to let her know he would protect her.<\/p>\n

\u201cNow the gun belt,\u201d Hoss directed, returning his attention to the man. He pushed his gun a little farther forward, pressing a bit deeper into the man\u2019s neck, just below the knot of his bandana.<\/p>\n

Slowly the masked man leaned down to his right. Hoss seemed satisfied that he was about to untie his belt when suddenly–<\/p>\n

\u201cLook out!\u201d A woman\u2019s scream was muted by the gunshot blasts. Instead of untying his gun, the man deftly removed the pistol and fired at Hoss. Everything happened so fast. Hoss had dodged the bullet and laid a solid punch to the man\u2019s jaw. The return blow sent Hoss reeling back. Hoss could see the woman crouching not far, running her hands nervously through her dark hair. His jaw clenched angrily as he thought of the new danger this young woman was now forced into. This other fella would certainly pay.<\/p>\n

Hoss\u2019 wrath emerged through his punches. The other man, being at least six inches shorter than Hoss, did not have the reach or staying power Hoss possessed–and especially had when angered. It was not often that Hoss got this riled up, but the thought of any harm coming to this woman made him crazy.<\/p>\n

With a loud \u201cumph\u201d the man fell to the ground and finally did not get back up. Hoss breathed deeply, leaning his hands on his knees to recover. A soft voice snapped him back to reality.<\/p>\n

\u201cIs he dead?\u201d The woman\u2019s dark eyes were staring wide at the man, now unmasked and still on the ground.<\/p>\n

\u201cNo, ma\u2019am, just out for a while. Which gives me time to find out exactly what is going on here. Are you all right?\u201d Hoss replied.<\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019m much better now, all thanks to you, Mister, uh…\u201d the woman realized she hadn\u2019t caught her rescuer\u2019s name in all the commotion.<\/p>\n

\u201cCartwright, Hoss Cartwright. And you are…\u201d Hoss asked, extending his hand.<\/p>\n

\u201cCatalina Rosado.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cIt\u2019s a pleasure, ma\u2019am. How\u2019d you get mixed up with that cowboy, anyhow?\u201d Hoss had regained his composure and his hat. Catalina was fixing her shoulder-length hair back into a riding bonnet.<\/p>\n

\u201cHe\u2019s my cousin, Roberto. He was sent to collect me. No doubt he rode with others; they will be looking for me as well,\u201d Catalina explained, without really telling Hoss anything.<\/p>\n

\u201cAre you in trouble, Miss Rosado?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cPlease, call me Catalina. And the only trouble I\u2019m in is trying to avoid marrying a dreadful man in Tej\u00e1s!\u201d She shook her head angrily.<\/p>\n

\u201cWell, Catalina–and please call me Hoss–I reckon once your other cousins see this fella here, they may think twice about messing with you!\u201d He winked, trying to put any of her fears or worries to rest. Hoss smiled at the woman nearly a foot shorter than him. Her dark hair was nicely tucked in a lavender bonnet, matching her light floral print gingham dress. She lacked gloves and wore cowboy boots–not those crazy ankle lace-up shoes he\u2019d seen ladies wear in Virginia City–but Hoss thought she was the most beautiful woman he\u2019d ever seen. His eyes started to glaze over as he watched Catalina prepare her dapple-gray horse. A low groan from Roberto brought Hoss back to the present.<\/p>\n

Hoss snatched the dazed man from the ground and shook him by his dirty collar. \u201cNow you\u2019re gonna leave Miss Catalina alone, y\u2019hear?\u201d he growled, his face just inches from Roberto\u2019s.<\/p>\n

Roberto barely opened his eyes to look at Hoss, unsure why his feet weren\u2019t on the ground and not totally remembering who this angry man was. Slowly he nodded, hoping he\u2019d be returned to solid earth before he lost his lunch.<\/p>\n

Hoss complied without knowing the request. \u201cGood.\u201d Gesturing to Catalina, he told her, \u201cLet\u2019s ride out before anyone else picks up our trail.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cWhere will we go, Hoss?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cWe\u2019re not far from our spread, the Ponderosa. We\u2019ll start there then figure out what you should do.\u201d Catalina nodded briskly. She was already in her saddle, sitting astride, paying no mind that her dress was bunched around her knees awkwardly. She sat confidently, ready to face anything else that came her way–only hopefully no other cousins for a while.<\/p>\n

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

\u201cWhere is middle son?!\u201d Hop Sing thundered out of the kitchen, flailing his arms in despair. It always irked him when one of the family was late for dinner–especially the best eater, Hoss.<\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019m sure he\u2019s just on his way back from Virginia City. Let\u2019s not let the beef get cold, let\u2019s eat!\u201d Little Joe called from the table, knife and fork in hand.<\/p>\n

\u201cWe can wait a few more minutes, can\u2019t we? Anyway, Adam\u2019s not back in from stabling Sport, so, relax, Joseph.\u201d Ben sat calmly at the head of the table, though the enticing smell of roast beef, mashed potatoes, fresh vegetables and a still-baking cobbler was testing his patience.<\/p>\n

Adam came busting through the front door. \u201cGonna wash up, then let\u2019s eat, huh?\u201d he called as he quickly crossed to the stairs.<\/p>\n

\u201cMake it fast!\u201d Joe shouted, practically bouncing in his chair.<\/p>\n

\u201cSit still, Joseph!\u201d Ben grumbled. Even so, his hunger was beginning to surpass his trademark patience. Two minutes ticked by and Adam was taking his seat at the table.<\/p>\n

\u201cWhere\u2019s Hoss?\u201d he asked. \u201cHe\u2019s not usually the last one seated.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cDinner will be ruined–getting cold already! You must eat now!\u201d Hop Sing thundered back out of the kitchen, carrying a large platter of beef. \u201cDon\u2019t worry–I have a second cow set aside for second son!\u201d<\/p>\n

Everyone shared a chuckle at Hoss\u2019 infamous appetite. Just as Joe was reaching for the beef, the front door flew open and two voices could be heard–a woman\u2019s lilt and Hoss\u2019 deep chuckle.<\/p>\n

\u201cAnd then I told her, oh, chica, he\u2019ll never leave you alone now. You be nice to Hugo once, and he\u2019ll never stop–\u201d the woman\u2019s voice cut off mid-sentence. Hoss stopped laughing, and realized that four sets of eyes were staring at the pair.<\/p>\n

\u201cAbout time you got back, brother!\u201d Joe shouted, breaking the awkwardness. \u201cAnd you brought a lovely friend. Glad to meet you, Miss…\u201d Joe bent over Catalina\u2019s hand, and looked to Hoss to introduce them.<\/p>\n

\u201cThis is Miss Catalina Rosado. That\u2019s my Pa, and my brothers Joe and Adam. I helped her out down the road, and figured at this time of day bringing her back here would be best. And we were starving too! Hop Sing–is dinner ready yet?\u201d Hoss quickly filled them in.<\/p>\n

Hop Sing threw up his arms and walked out of the dining room to fetch another plate. Ben smiled and took Catalina\u2019s hand. \u201cYou\u2019re more than welcome, Miss Rosado. And it\u2019s perfect timing, we were just about to sit and eat. Please join us.\u201d<\/p>\n

Adam pulled out a chair at the table for their new guest. He looked her over, noting her traveling clothes and road-wearied appearance. He couldn\u2019t help but wonder what she was running from.<\/p>\n

Catalina had been so overwhelmed upon entering the house that she hadn\u2019t even said a word to the rest of the Cartwrights. She was often surrounded by men in her own family, but these Cartwrights were so different–welcoming, friendly, and handsome! She could hardly form words for her appreciation of their generosity, taking her right in with no questions. Catalina was deeply touched, so grateful that Hoss happened by that road with Roberto.<\/p>\n

She shook her head, wiping away all negative thoughts of her cousins and family obligations. Catalina sat, not even realizing she was in a chair. She sat facing four generous, open faces. Their eager eyes were so friendly and unabashedly curious that she couldn\u2019t help but laugh. \u201cYou are all so nice–thank you!\u201d<\/p>\n

All the Cartwrights smiled and Hop Sing brought out the last heaping bowl of food. Good thing he made four sides–between Hoss\u2019 eating and another guest, there\u2019d be just enough!<\/p>\n

The Cartwright men allowed a little time for their guest to eat before the questioning began. They inquired how Hoss helped her, and this launched Catalina into a tale of how she left her family\u2019s home in Texas to avoid an arranged marriage.<\/p>\n

\u201cI do not know why they felt I could simply settle! I have always been fairly headstrong, so they really should have seen this coming! \u00a1Est\u00fapidos!\u201d Catalina finished her story with a loud \u201chumph!\u201d and crossed her arms across her chest defiantly.<\/p>\n

\u201cWell, Miss Rosado–\u201d Ben began.<\/p>\n

\u201cCatalina, please,\u201d she interrupted.<\/p>\n

\u201cAll right, Catalina. Well, we would be happy to help you and you\u2019re of course welcome to stay here as long as you would like, however it seems you are simply itching to move on!\u201d<\/p>\n

It had been true. Catalina had even explained to them all of her desire to see the country and not be tied down. She\u2019d work when she needed to, and travel when she could. As Ben spoke, her eyes drifted to the man to her right, a handsome, kind-hearted man that had risked his life to protect her…was she really ready to walk away from him?<\/p>\n

Hoss noticed Catalina\u2019s gaze fall upon him. He shifted in his seat, not sure what she was staring at initially, then found himself gazing back into her dark brown eyes. He lost himself in those eyes…<\/p>\n

\u201cHoss?\u201d A voice sounded far away, but persistent.<\/p>\n

\u201cHoss, I asked if you finished your business in town today or if you had to go back tomorrow?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cHmm?\u201d Hoss murmured distractedly, noting Catalina\u2019s other fine facial features, a cute nose, soft lips, and small ears with lovely green gemstones hanging from them…<\/p>\n

\u201cHoss!\u201d Ben\u2019s voice cut through his son\u2019s reverie, and made Catalina jump. \u201cWhere were you, boy?\u201d<\/p>\n

Hoss blushed, willing himself not to turn back to look at Catalina, who was suddenly busy with the napkin in her lap.<\/p>\n

\u201cSorry, Pa, I…uh…well, what were you saying?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cI was asking about your business in Virginia City.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cOh it went fine, Pa, just have to pick up the notarized papers from Mr. Robinson by Thursday.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cVery good,\u201d Ben nodded. \u201cMaybe you could take our guest into town for travel arrangements when you go next.\u201d<\/p>\n

Now, Hoss dared to look back at Catalina, not bothering to hide the disappointment on his face. She was still fiddling with her napkin. Without raising her head, Catalina spoke.<\/p>\n

\u201cThat won\u2019t be necessary, Sr. Cartwright. Not yet–\u201d She looked up and stole a quick glance at Hoss. \u201cIf your hospitality is still available, I think I might like a break for a while. It might be nice to explore the Ponderosa.\u201d<\/p>\n

Adam and Joe exchanged knowing glances as Ben watched his middle son\u2019s face light up at Catalina\u2019s words. \u201cOf course!\u201d he laughed, rising from the table. \u201cPlease, stay as long as you like!\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cI think forever might suit Hoss fine,\u201d Joe muttered to Adam, who kicked him to be quiet in response.<\/p>\n

Catalina smiled graciously back, her heart warming at the happy grin Hoss now wore.<\/p>\n

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

The following day, Hoss took Catalina out in the cushiest buckboard for a ride around Lake Tahoe. They were gone before Joe was even out of bed.<\/p>\n

\u201cJoseph, please finish fixing the stable doors when you finish eating,\u201d Ben requested as he cleared away his plate. Joe was just sitting down for breakfast, always the late riser.<\/p>\n

\u201cPa, I\u2019m already finishing up the corral fence!\u201d Joe whined. \u201cWasn\u2019t Hoss working on the stable?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cWell he\u2019s off with our guest, Catalina, so help him out,\u201d Ben accentuated the last few words, combining them with a pointed look. Joe knew there was no backing out with that deadly combination. Leaning back in his chair, Joe sighed and rolled his eyes. Really, he couldn\u2019t complain about shirking chores to spend time with a girl. After all, Joe had perfected that trick.<\/p>\n

\u201cWhere\u2019s Adam?\u201d Joe asked as he spooned eggs onto his plate.<\/p>\n

\u201cHe\u2019s picking up that paperwork in town,\u201d Ben said.<\/p>\n

Joe smiled to himself. At least Adam has to do Hoss\u2019 work too, he thought smugly, taking a big bite of scrambled egg.<\/p>\n

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

Hoss took Catalina all around Lake Tahoe. Around lunchtime, he stopped at one of his favorite grassy spots near the lake bank. It was shaded by a large tree, handy for such a warm day.<\/p>\n

\u201cIt is so lovely here!\u201d Catalina exclaimed as she adjusted her skirts to sit on the blanket Hoss brought. He was setting out food Hop Sing had prepared and packed in the buckboard in anticipation of a picnic before Hoss had even mentioned the idea.<\/p>\n

\u201cIt is at that,\u201d Hoss replied. He watched Catalina and did not even notice the idyllic lake view in front of him. He blushed as she caught his eye and she laughed, a light lilt that made Hoss\u2019 stomach do flops.<\/p>\n

\u201cWhat did you bring us, Hoss? I\u2019m starving!\u201d Catalina eagerly dug into the basket.<\/p>\n

\u201cFinally–a woman that can match my appetite! Will wonders never cease?\u201d Hoss laughed and bit into an apple to start.<\/p>\n

A comfortable silence fell as the pair ate their extravagant picnic. Hop Sing had packed sandwiches with leftover roast, apples, fresh cheese, and half of a cherry pie–baked fresh that morning.<\/p>\n

After they had eaten, Hoss decided to bring up Catalina\u2019s situation once more. He was always more agreeable after he\u2019d eaten, and hoped she\u2019d not mind him asking.<\/p>\n

\u201cCatalina, I was wondering…\u201d he began.<\/p>\n

\u201cYes?\u201d Catalina was quickly attentive and tilted her face towards Hoss. The sunlight danced on her face as it peeked between the leaves of the tree. Hoss was momentarily distracted, watching the light patterns in her hair.<\/p>\n

\u201cI was just curious–how long til you\u2019re off again?\u201d<\/p>\n

Catalina hesitated. She had quickly become very comfortable at the Ponderosa. She enjoyed Hoss\u2019 company so much it almost made her road-itchy feet want to rest for quite a while…if not forever. This was a new feeling, one that simultaneously terrified and overjoyed Catalina.<\/p>\n

\u201cWell, Hoss, I\u2019m just not sure,\u201d she admitted. \u201cI don\u2019t like running away, but I do like to travel, and at the same time…\u201d Her voice trailed off and she stared out across the lake. \u201cI could be so happy here. I think,\u201d she quietly added.<\/p>\n

Hoss\u2019 heart swelled. He leaned towards Catalina, and said, \u201cI\u2019d like to have you be happy here. For as long as you\u2019d like.\u201d<\/p>\n

She turned her face to him and smiled. Hoss leaned in for a soft kiss, and Catalina knew she was lost. She could never leave the Ponderosa, never leave Hoss now.<\/p>\n

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

It was nearly dinnertime when Hoss and Catalina decided to leave the clearing and head back to the Ponderosa. The air was calm as the sun began to sink lower in the sky, creating a beautiful sunset. Everything seemed perfect to them both.<\/p>\n

\u201cIs that thunder?\u201d Catalina asked, referring to the low rumble growing behind them on the road.<\/p>\n

Hoss looked up to a clear sky. Though it was slipping from daytime blue to deeper oranges and blues, there was not a cloud present. He sniffed. \u201cIt doesn\u2019t smell like rain.\u201d<\/p>\n

Catalina turned around as the thundering sound continued and got louder. \u201cOh no,\u201d she muttered. \u201cR\u00e1pido, Hoss.\u201d<\/p>\n

Without needing any further explanation, he urged the horses on. \u201cGit up,\u201d he encouraged.<\/p>\n

The sound approached quickly even as the Ponderosa stallions broke into full gallop. Hoss looked back for a quick moment, surprised to see half a dozen riders kicking up a cloud of dust and gaining on them. They were outnumbered, two to one. The group of riders pulled up beside Hoss and Catalina, leveling rifles at the buckboard.<\/p>\n

\u201cHola, prima. Vamos. Ahora.\u201d One rider spoke to Catalina. Although Hoss couldn\u2019t understand all the Spanish, he knew they were trying to take Catalina. More cousins.<\/p>\n

Catalina stood and began speaking in rapid Spanish to the six men. She gestured to the guns, angrily shouting. \u201c\u00a1Basta, primos! \u00a1Ahora!\u201d She finished with a flourish, her hands on her hips. The man who spoke before gave a slight nod and the guns were lowered. Hoss let out the breath he didn\u2019t realize he\u2019d been holding. He looked at the an and noticed Roberto, the man he\u2019d given a solid beating to just the day before. Roberto looked a little puffy, and avoided Hoss\u2019 eyes, not wanting to incite another fight.<\/p>\n

\u201cCatalina is everything all right?\u201d Hoss asked low, not wanting to alarm any of her cousins and put her in more danger. His voice betrayed his true feeling–Hoss was internally raging. At himself for not being more careful while these men were looking for Catalina, and at her cousins for being so reckless and callous towards Catalina.<\/p>\n

Turning, Catalina gave Hoss a small smile that was meant to be reassuring. \u201cYes, Hoss.\u201d<\/p>\n

Another one of the men began talking angrily. He spoke to the other cousins, who unfortunately began to nod in agreement with him. Catalina\u2019s look of incredulity only confirmed Hoss\u2019 suspicions.<\/p>\n

\u201cNo!\u201d Catalina cried emphatically. She spoke frantically in Spanish then looked down at Hoss with wide eyes. \u201cThey\u2019re threatening to shoot you if I don\u2019t go with them.\u201d<\/p>\n

Hoss knew the threat was real–Roberto undoubtedly told the other what happened and they didn\u2019t seem ready to settle this with a fist fight. For Catalina\u2019s benefit, he smiled. \u201cAw, don\u2019t you worry none about me. I just don\u2019t want you to get forced into marriage!\u201d His hand rested near his hip and gunbelt as he spoke.<\/p>\n

\u201cOne more move and it\u2019s over,\u201d a thickly accented voice growled to Hoss\u2019 left.<\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019ll go,\u201d Catalina said, her chin high and expression resigned.<\/p>\n

\u201cNo, Catalina!\u201d Hoss cried out, distraught. She had already climbed off the buckboard. One of her cousins roughly hauled her onto a horse.<\/p>\n

\u201cNow wait just a minute, you be careful–\u201d Hoss was up and reached instinctively for his hip. As his arm moved, Hoss was distinctly aware of a sharp pain, warmth, screaming, and then…nothing.<\/p>\n

Roberto shot Hoss.<\/p>\n

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

Catalina beat her cousin Jorge\u2019s back as she was placed behind him on a shorter horse. She rode behind him reluctantly. She cried, tears running down her face. Jorge muttered curses at her as Catalina kept trying to get farther away from him on the saddle.<\/p>\n

The group began to move out, leaving Hoss\u2019 still form behind. He was slumped over the side of the buckboard, a bullet in his back, his gun not even drawn. Catalina didn\u2019t know if he was dead, but there had been so much blood. She started sobbing again as the horse was spurred to a full gallop.<\/p>\n

As they rode, Catalina\u2019s mind raced. First, she was in painful shock. What if Hoss was dead? Then anger bubbled through her, thick and hot, all directed towards her cousins. They weren\u2019t defending her honor, that was for sure. They wanted her to marry Don Geraldo for his ranchero and dinero, not anything that had to do with her happiness. Now she didn\u2019t know what to do. If she ran, they\u2019d simply continue to hunt her down, and it was apparent they had no problems hurting anyone in their way. Still, if Hoss was badly hurt, or worse, she had to find help, had to tell the Cartwrights. Plans and ideas were forming in her head, giving her hope and keeping her sane as they continued to ride full bore across the Ponderosa.<\/p>\n

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

\u201cNot again!\u201d Hop Sing\u2019s frustrated cry echoed through the ranch house. Ben frowned, it was getting late. He hoped that Hoss and Catalina had not run into any trouble. Then again, Ben knew that faraway look Hoss wore. It always meant he was smitten. And Hoss had been looking faraway ever since he\u2019d arrived home with Catalina.<\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019m not sure it\u2019s just love, Pa,\u201d Adam commented as if he had read Ben\u2019s mind. Hop Sing ceased his muttering to hear Adam out. Joe even looked up from his new dime novel. \u201cIf Catalina really is in trouble and being followed, they may have tracked her here.\u201d<\/p>\n

Ben looked contemplative, deciding if riding out after his usually sensible second son was a good idea or not. It was possible they could have fallen into some trouble. \u201cVery well. Let\u2019s go. Hop Sing–\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cI know, I know. It will be warm when you get back.\u201d Hop Sing shook his head. How many dinners had been left warming due to one calamity or another?<\/p>\n

The three Cartwrights saddled up quickly. \u201cI think Hoss mentioned the lake last night. I\u2019d bet he took Catalina over towards the clearing, it\u2019s one of his favorite spots,\u201d Joe suggested after he swung into Cochise\u2019s saddle.<\/p>\n

Buck neighed and anxiously pawed the ground. Ben patted his neck, equally anticipatory. \u201cLet\u2019s start there then. Come on Buck!\u201d<\/p>\n

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

It was very cold. That was the first though Hoss had as he slowly returned to consciousness. As he began to wake, he felt pain. Lots of pain. His back and arms hurt so badly he could hardly move. Half of himself was slung over the side of the buckboard and blood was rushed to his head, making it hard to raise up. As he woke, Hoss remembered. Someone had shot him from behind just as he was getting up to stop Catalina. Catalina! Was she all right? Where had they taken her? Hoss tried to sit up, he had to follow her, had to save her, had to keep her safe…but a new wave of pain slowed his movements. He was vaguely aware of the sound of hooves approaching. Hoss tensed–if Catalina\u2019s cousins were returning, they would likely not leave him alive this time around.<\/p>\n

\u201cHoss!\u201d The sound of Hoss\u2019 youngest brother\u2019s voice rang out over the dusk.<\/p>\n

\u201cHoss!!\u201d The second call sounded more panicked, so Hoss tried to shift, so they\u2019d know he was alive. Mostly.<\/p>\n

Joe reached Hoss first. He pressed his neckerchief to Hoss\u2019 back, sending new shots of pain through his body.<\/p>\n

\u201cMy God…\u201d Ben trailed off as he saw the amount of blood on Hoss\u2019 back.<\/p>\n

\u201cCan you move, Hoss?\u201d Adam asked, not unkindly.<\/p>\n

\u201cIs Chubb…?\u201d Hoss managed, confused though if he was expected to get on a horse.<\/p>\n

\u201cNo, buckboard. I\u2019m driving. Hang on, Hoss,\u201d Joe clarified as he took the reins. Hoss appreciated his brother\u2019s help and his family\u2019s presence, but in a crisis, he wasn\u2019t sure if Joe was the best one to drive. Joe must have felt his apprehension because he winked at his brother, trying to allay both of their fears. \u201cDon\u2019t worry, it\u2019ll be the smoothest ride ever into Virginia City!\u201d Hoss wasn\u2019t too convinced, but was in no position to put up a fight either.<\/p>\n

Adam was investigating the area around the buckboard. \u201cSix horses it seems,\u201d he noted. Looking around, he could tell which direction the riders had come from and rode off towards.<\/p>\n

\u201cCan we catch up?\u201d Ben asked, diverting his attention from Joe adjusting Hoss.<\/p>\n

\u201cI think so, Pa. One horse has to be doubled up with Catalina, and it\u2019s getting to be too dark to safely ride. They\u2019ll camp soon.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cJoseph, after you get to the doc, go to the sheriff. Go, son,\u201d Ben ordered. Joe sped off, trying not to jar Hoss too much. The Cartwrights split off then, and Ben and Adam rode into the woods, letting the twilight guide them.<\/p>\n

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

Catalina was exhausted–physically and emotionally. She had finally stopped crying and her eyes hurt. She had never felt so wiped out or lost. But now, she knew what she had to do.<\/p>\n

Their party camped on the edge of Ponderosa land. After her cousin Guillermo\u2019s horse tripped and threw him, they had to set up camp. Catalina had little sympathy, and had secretly been hoping his leg was broken. Guillermo was the oldest and the one spear heading the whole plan. Even with as much hatred as she had for him, Catalina still had more for Roberto. Roberto shot Hoss, Hoss whom she loved. She knew it before they had left the clearing, and now felt empty knowing Hoss could be dying at the hands of her own blood.<\/p>\n

Her cousins had decided she needed to be bound and watched while they camped. They were unwilling to lose her again, and thus, lose the monetary benefits they would receive by providing Catalina as the wife to Don Geraldo. But Catalina had a plan. While the youngest cousin, Francisco, was watching Catalina, she would get him to drink. Catalina had grabbed Guillermo\u2019s flask when they guided his horse back after it tripped. Guillermo always had a little nip of tequila nearby. Short and slight, Francisco could never hold his cerveza, and Catalina was going to use this to her advantage. Spiking his coffee, Francisco would assume Jorge just didn\u2019t make good camp coffee and drink it anyway. Once he had drank enough, she\u2019d slip away into the night and hopefully make it back towards the Ponderosa.<\/p>\n

Once Tom\u00e1s woke Francisco, Catalina knew it was time to try her plan. Francisco immediately got some coffee, which Catalina managed to spike while he rolled up his blanket. The rest of it was up to time…and for small Francisco, it was no time at all.<\/p>\n

Twenty minutes later, Francisco was passed out, and Catalina was removing her ropes and sneaking out into the night. It almost seemed too easy, but she was not going to complain.<\/p>\n

Walking the exact path they had ridden from the lake, Catalina suddenly froze when she heard rustling. It could either be people or any number of animals that frequented the area. Frustrated she no longer had her small pistol, Catalina braced herself.<\/p>\n

\u201cCatalina?\u201d A familiar voice whispered.<\/p>\n

\u201cSr. Cartwright?\u201d She stepped forward, facing Adam and Ben in the moonlight. They were crouched down, their horses not far behind some nearby rocks.<\/p>\n

\u201cWe were following your tracks. Are you hurt?\u201d Ben asked her, pulling her down by them.<\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019m fine. Please, how is Hoss? Did you see him?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cJoe\u2019s taking him to the doctor now. He\u2019s awake, but he\u2019s lost a lot of blood.\u201d<\/p>\n

Catalina looked down, too upset for words. Ben understood her anguish, and tried to comfort her. \u201cDon\u2019t worry, he\u2019s strong. He\u2019ll pull through.\u201d Ben smiled at her, and held her hand. He could tell how much this young woman really cared for his middle son. He was starting to feel pretty smart about reading his sons\u2019 expressions.<\/p>\n

Catalina quickly told Ben and Adam about her cousins and their camp. They agreed it was too dangerous to do anything with just them, and decided to ride right into Virginia City to get the sheriff. Catalina rode Hoss\u2019 horse Chubb. He had been tied to the back of the buckboard all day, and Adam brought him when Joe sped off towards town with Hoss. He\u2019d hope they\u2019d need a third horse to bring Catalina back with them.<\/p>\n

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

Joe flew into Virginia City and right to Doctor Martin\u2019s private residence. He started shouting, not caring whom he woke up at this hour. Finally a light came on and the doctor came outside. He took one look at Hoss and called for his wife to boil some water.<\/p>\n

\u201cThis is going to hurt Hoss, so bite on this,\u201d Doc Martin gave Hoss some thick gauze to chew on while the doctor prepared to remove the bullet.<\/p>\n

Hoss braced himself and nearly broke his back teeth biting on the gauze. Joe had to leave the room, he nearly passed out himself from the gruesome wound. It seemed like forever, but after only a few minutes, the doc was looking rather pleased with himself, holding a bloody bullet in his hand.<\/p>\n

\u201cLook at that,\u201d he held it out for Hoss to see. One look, and Hoss fainted cold.<\/p>\n

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

While the doctor was fixing up Hoss\u2019 back, Joe rushed over to the see Sheriff Coffee. He found him just locking up a drunk in the jail cell. He was surprised to find his Pa, brother Adam, and Catalina all there as well. They were waiting none too patiently in the front room for Roy to help them. None of them noticed Joe first arriving in the office.<\/p>\n

\u201cNow look, Roy, you can\u2019t expect me to believe that there\u2019s nothing you can do!\u201d Ben growled, leaning across Roy\u2019s desk.<\/p>\n

\u201cNow, Ben, that\u2019s not what I said. But what it sounds like from your story, this is a family matter. And the law doesn\u2019t butt in on family situations unless it has to, you know that.\u201d Roy tried to explain.<\/p>\n

\u201cThey held me at gunpoint and abducted me against my will!\u201d Catalina\u2019s voice was increasing in octave and volume. \u201cThey SHOT Hoss! That\u2019s attempted murder!\u201d By the word \u2018murder\u2019 she was full-out shouting at Roy.<\/p>\n

Roy held up his hands to quiet everyone down. \u201cI understand that, and the fella that shot Hoss will be found. We\u2019ll round up a posse, but don\u2019t you think it could wait until tomorrow?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cTomorrow? Hoss may not have until tomorrow!\u201d Adam chimed in angrily.<\/p>\n

\u201cDoc Martin got the bullet out, looks like he\u2019ll make it,\u201d Joe joined the conversation from the doorway. Everyone turned, startled to see him.<\/p>\n

\u201cOh, thank goodness, I must see him,\u201d Ben rushed past Joe, squeezing his arm in gratitude as he left.<\/p>\n

\u201cBut I agree with my family and Catalina here, Roy. We need to get a posse together, and now. It can\u2019t wait. They\u2019re a dangerous lot.\u201d Joe stepped forward, crossing his arms and standing firm.<\/p>\n

\u201cThey are. Now they\u2019ll stop at nothing, the greedy…\u201d Catalina agreed, and slipped into Spanish, cursing her dreadful cousins.<\/p>\n

Roy sighed. \u201cVery well, boys, let\u2019s get some men rounded up. Then you can lead me to this spot they were camping.\u201d He herded Joe and Adam out, first heading to the saloon. Joe took Catalina aside first, silently pointing to the one house lit on Broad Street–Doc Martin\u2019s. Giving him a grateful smile, Catalina took this opportunity to slip away and see Hoss.<\/p>\n

Catalina knocked lightly on the door as she opened it, peering inside. Dr. Martin\u2019s wife greeted her as she came in. \u201cHello, dear, please come on in. Hoss has been asking about you ever since he woke up.\u201d<\/p>\n

Catalina couldn\u2019t hide a smile at this information. \u201cThank you so much,\u201d she said. Mrs. Martin led Catalina to Hoss. He was lying on his stomach, holding his head up in his hands, talking with the doctor.<\/p>\n

\u201cYou mean I have to stay like this? Sleeping on my stomach? For how long?\u201d Hoss asked, irritated.<\/p>\n

\u201cAt least three weeks. Then we\u2019ll see how you feel, but I don\u2019t want you putting undue pressure on this wound, understood?\u201d Doc Martin held firm.<\/p>\n

\u201cFine, fine. Oooh, won\u2019t Joe love having to do my chores now?\u201d Hoss laughed, already feeling more like his old self, even with a gunshot wound in his back. As he chuckled, he saw Catalina standing a little way from him. \u201cCatalina! Are you–\u201d he reached out for her.<\/p>\n

\u201cOh, Hoss!\u201d Catalina raced forward, unable to hold back the tears any longer. She grabbed his arm, the only part of him she felt she could hug without causing him pain. Hoss smoothed her hair and hushed her. \u201cI am so sorry, so sorry, thank you,\u201d she sobbed into his arm.<\/p>\n

\u201cShh, now, don\u2019t you worry none. I\u2019m just fine. Doc got me all fixed up, in no time Pa\u2019ll have me doing my own chores. Well, Joe will at least,\u201d Hoss tilted her head up, smiling at her. \u201cI\u2019m just so glad you\u2019re okay. Did they hurt you at all?\u201d<\/p>\n

Catalina shook her head. \u201cNo, Hoss, I got away. I got the youngest drunk and ran into your father and brother Adam. We all came here. I\u2019m so glad you\u2019re all right.\u201d<\/p>\n

Hoss stared into Catalina\u2019s eyes, unable to truly believe how much he cared for her, and she seemingly for him. She nodded slightly, as if she also couldn\u2019t believe how much they cared for each other after only knowing one another for such short a time. Hoss brought her face forward and kissed her gently.<\/p>\n

\u201cCatalina, I was so worried about you,\u201d Hoss said quietly.<\/p>\n

\u201cAnd I you.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cI don\u2019t want you to marry Don Geraldo.\u201d<\/p>\n

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

\u201cI\u2019d like you to marry me, instead, if you\u2019d have me…\u201d Hoss trailed off, suddenly unsure of himself.<\/p>\n

\u201cOh, Hoss! I would love to! I love you!\u201d Catalina hugged his arm tighter and smiled so broadly she thought her face would break with happiness.<\/p>\n

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

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

Epilogue:<\/p>\n

Sheriff Coffee, Adam, and Joe made short order of reaching Catalina\u2019s cousins. They resisted any questioning and tried to shoot their way out of arrest. They Rosado men were all subsequently arrested for kidnapping, attempted murder, and attacking a law officer. Catalina and Hoss would never have to worry about them again.<\/p>\n

And the rest of their story? They lived happily ever after, of course!<\/p>\n

<\/div>\n

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

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

Summary: Hoss helps a woman escape from her controlling and conniving cousins. This leads to a blossoming romance, and danger! Written for a friend, so please excuse the quasi-Mary Sue bits!<\/p>\n

Rated: K+ (5,790 words)<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":139,"featured_media":3478,"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":[23],"tags":[17],"class_list":["post-5133","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-drama","tag-hoss","wpcat-23-id"],"a3_pvc":{"activated":true,"total_views":843,"today_views":0},"jetpack_featured_media_url":"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/wp-content\/uploads\/2014\/04\/4Cartwrights.jpg?fit=849%2C541&ssl=1","jetpack_likes_enabled":true,"jetpack-related-posts":[{"id":3993,"url":"https:\/\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/?p=3993","url_meta":{"origin":5133,"position":0},"title":"Nod or a Wink (by Writing Woman)","author":"Writing Woman","date":"April 27, 2014","format":false,"excerpt":"Summary: \u00a0Hoss struggles to understand why a woman is gunned down on the streets of Virginia City. 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Rating K+ \u00a0WC 800","rel":"","context":"In "Adam \/ Hoss"","block_context":{"text":"Adam \/ Hoss","link":"https:\/\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/?cat=1090"},"img":{"alt_text":"","src":"","width":0,"height":0},"classes":[]},{"id":13684,"url":"https:\/\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/?p=13684","url_meta":{"origin":5133,"position":4},"title":"Have a Nice Day (by Milesky1)","author":"Milesky1","date":"January 23, 2003","format":false,"excerpt":"Summary:\u00a0 What's wrong with being 'a good friend'?\u00a0 Nothing, unless... Rating:\u00a0 T\u00a0 (1,650 words)","rel":"","context":"In "Drama"","block_context":{"text":"Drama","link":"https:\/\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/?cat=23"},"img":{"alt_text":"","src":"","width":0,"height":0},"classes":[]},{"id":14059,"url":"https:\/\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/?p=14059","url_meta":{"origin":5133,"position":5},"title":"A Summer Affair (by Diana G)","author":"DianaG","date":"May 17, 2003","format":false,"excerpt":"Summary:\u00a0 \u00a0 Adam, Hoss and Little Joe stop to help a woman travelling alone.\u00a0 Their act of kindness brings with it a storm of emotions, and a revelation for their father. 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