{"id":6491,"date":"2014-05-04T00:49:05","date_gmt":"2014-05-04T04:49:05","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/?p=6491"},"modified":"2025-02-18T19:18:27","modified_gmt":"2025-02-19T00:18:27","slug":"one-step-closer-for-loves-sake-only","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/?p=6491","title":{"rendered":"One Step Closer #1 – For Love’s Sake Only (by MissJudy)"},"content":{"rendered":"

Summary<\/strong>: \u00a0<\/span>Adam\u00a0promised Laura that he’d be back for their engagement party.\u00a0But he’s delayed and during that time, he unexpectedly meets his first love – a young woman he knew in Boston.\u00a0After an evening spent talking,\u00a0they\u00a0realize\u00a0that they still love each other, yet\u00a0they\u00a0know that it can’t make a difference. Life and time have\u00a0sent them in opposite directions\u00a0and they part again, while wondering what might have happened if they had taken one step closer.\u00a0\u00a0This is a\u00a0what happens<\/em>\u00a0during, and after<\/em>\u00a0the episode, Triangle.<\/p>\n

Rated:<\/span>\u00a0K+ WC 10,000<\/span><\/p>\n

One Step Closer Series:<\/strong><\/p>\n

For Love’s Sake Only
\n<\/a>Til Death Do Us Part
\n<\/a>Two Hearts Broken
\n<\/a>In Search of Safety
\n<\/a>From Two to Three
\n<\/a>Changes in Fate<\/a><\/p>\n

Story Notes:<\/b><\/em><\/p>\n

Adam never says where he’s going in the Triangle episode. I decided it was probably Sacramento since he could do a 4-day turn around. This is the first in a series of stories I’m writing about the woman I think Adam\u00a0would have married. I’ve always stayed away from this topic, but now am embracing it. This story is full and complete. Other episodes will follow, but this is a full story without a cliff hanger…<\/em><\/p>\n

This is the first story I’ve posted in some time. Life has been “interesting” to say the least and i’ve delveloped a whole new vocabulary of medical terms and housing options related to an aging parent. So it’s really good to be back. Writing is my\u00a0place to find peace\u00a0when the world seems a little wonky. Thank you for choosing to read this story. I’d like to thank Sandspur for her efforts, corrections and encouragement!<\/em><\/p>\n

***<\/p>\n

For Love’s Sake Only<\/strong><\/p>\n

A Stagecoach Heading East<\/strong><\/p>\n

There was no way to get comfortable.<\/strong> Adam had tried to find a way to ease his cramping muscles in the tight quarters of the stage coach, but couldn\u2019t.<\/p>\n

Sleep was impossible; he\u2019d tried that too. He\u2019d even played peek-a-boo for a time with the child across from him. While he\u2019d done his best to be entertaining, his patience had lasted less time than the child\u2019s willingness to play. To disentangle himself from that, he\u2019d struck up a conversation with the businessman who was wedged in under his right arm. That pastime failed after a few minutes as well. He resorted to pulling his hat over his face and feigning sleep as a way to block out the muddle of sounds around him. \u00a0In his manufactured solitude, he spent his time thinking.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

He should have been gone four days\u2014plenty of time to get to Sacramento for a quick business meeting and back home for his engagement party on Saturday night. That\u2019s what he\u2019d assured Laura as he\u2019d said goodbye. But as he headed west, a weather system began dumping so much rain on central California that his quick turnaround was delayed. The stage company deserved great credit; they\u2019d repaired the washed-out road and moved the rock slide in record time and he was headed home\u2014three days late.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

He was thankful to be on his way, but since the stage hadn\u2019t run for a few days, they packed all ticket holders for that period into one coach and sent it rolling, figuring the crowding would ease as the passengers reached their destinations. The seating arrangement that comfortably held six adults was packed with seven plus the toddler. \u00a0The sad fact was that he couldn\u2019t even complain. \u00a0Ben Cartwright was a tall man who produced tall sons\u2014with the exception of Little Joe\u2014and Adam\u2019s height and broad shoulders took up more space than any of the others with him. He was trying to keep his legs tucked against the seat rather than stretched out as he would have liked, and his arms were folded on his chest to allow the most room on either side. \u00a0The result was that his knees were throbbing in protest at remaining flexed, and his back and shoulders were tightening into knots.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

There was a reason for his discomfort beyond the obvious space issue. He\u2019d been working 12 hours a day trying to get a house built as a surprise wedding gift for Laura and Peggy. There had been many nights lately when he was so tired and sore that he dozed off at Laura\u2019s after supper and made his way home to the Ponderosa nearly-asleep in the saddle.\u00a0 Fortunately Sport knew the way and always got him to his destination. His father had warned him that he was burning the candle at both ends. Ben suggested that he might want to slow down a bit or at least tell Laura what he was doing so she wouldn\u2019t resent his absence, or inability to stay awake when he did spend time with her. But Adam thought his fianc\u00e9 would be thrilled with the surprise\u2026at least he hoped she would\u2026but then again…it seemed he often misread what Laura wanted from him.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

He let his mind take a tour of the construction. The house was set in a wooded valley near the lake, and was taking shape nicely. It wasn\u2019t as big as the Ponderosa house he designed, but it would be plenty big enough for now and could easily be added to if necessary. The framing was nearly done; all that remained was to place the trusses for the roof. With those set, the rest would fall together quickly. He did a mental inventory of what was needed to complete the interior and was pleasantly surprised that everything he had ordered should arrive soon. With the long hours of work behind him and the end in sight, he was at a point where he felt comfortable setting a date for the wedding. To seal the deal, he\u2019d purchased a wedding ring that he planned to give Laura as soon as he got back.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam blushed beneath his hat as he thought back to three days earlier when he was picking out that ring.\u00a0Melinda<\/em>! He thought of her and sighed with the pleasant memories associated with that name\u2014and the woman who claimed it. What chance of fate had put her outside the jewelry store in Sacramento? \u00a0And what penance must he undertake for even thinking of her again? But he couldn\u2019t un-think the memory, and let her image linger.\u00a0Melinda<\/em>, he thought again as an ache of past love shot through his heart, and a shiver of past passion affected another part of his anatomy.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

They\u2019d met in Boston when he\u2019d gone there for school. He\u2019d fallen from a tree in Abel\u2019s yard trying to get a better look at her\u2014and had fallen even harder as he\u2019d gotten to know her. She was a governess for a family there during the years Adam attended college, and her aunt lived next door to his grandfather. \u00a0Melinda would visit her aunt, while Adam stayed with Abel whenever there was a break in their classes. During those interludes they had come to know each other very well. They\u2019d talked for hours as they\u2019d shared their dreams and passions and had found much common ground and interest. The friendship had blossomed into romance and intimacy; a first deep love for each of them. \u00a0Even though they thought that they would be together forever one day, their paths had diverged when he\u2019d gone back to Nevada and she\u2019d decided to go back to school. They\u2019d promised to meet in four years\u2014but ten years had passed without seeing each other. That had changed three days ago.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

When they\u2019d met in Sacramento, he considered whether he should poke at the ashes of old feelings. Yet, they were two adults who could share a meal and a few memories without any entanglements\u2026 That had been his well-reasoned conclusion then, but he was less certain it was such a good idea now as he thought of having to tell Laura about it. He wondered if she would suspect that this \u201cold friend\u201d from Boston was far more than a friend. He would know immediately how she felt. When Laura was upset, her speech became clipped and her head rose at least two inches on her neck\u2026or so it seemed. She\u2019d profess that nothing was wrong, then abruptly turn away, cross her arms over her chest and brood. Adam knew when that happened it was best to profess his sincerest apology and turn quickly to another topic.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Laura was a beautiful woman and Adam appreciated her. He couldn\u2019t say that he loved her\u2014although he loved things about her.\u00a0 There certainly wasn\u2019t the passion with Laura that he had known with Melinda, but it was a solid relationship\u2026at least he thought it was\u2026and he hoped that love would grow as they got past the courting and became a family.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

There was no comparing Melinda with Laura. They were both lovely and kind, but their personalities were as different as night and day. Admitting that didn\u2019t stop the comparisons from bouncing around in his mind.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

He never needed to wonder what Melinda thought; she always told him. They didn\u2019t always agree but they could always voice their thoughts without fear of breaking the bond between them. \u00a0Melinda was opinionated, strong-willed, and filled with fire and dreams. Laura was not; she was cool, easily swayed in her thinking and unsure of herself. They\u2019d been through several episodes already where he\u2019d thought he\u2019d known what Laura wanted, only to find out later that he hadn\u2019t a clue. His father assured him that this was the way women usually operated. He accepted that life with Laura was going to take some adjustment. Yet he hoped that in time she would feel comfortable enough with him to be honest and express her thoughts without fear. This one change would make their life together so much fuller\u2026and simpler.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Melinda was well-read, intelligent and faced her challenges head on. He would say that Laura was intelligent too, but felt she might believe that old wives-tale that it was unladylike to show it. She kept an organized house, didn\u2019t spend beyond her means, and picked things up easily when she relaxed enough to let herself be taught. The problem was that he couldn\u2019t point out the areas where she might benefit from learning new things without her accusing him of thinking she was stupid.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

His initial experience with this had come over her inability to tell Peggy that the child\u2019s father had died. He helped her through that and thought she would see the benefit of acting instead of stewing over big decisions. \u00a0But there had been many more arguments and stormy times between them as he\u2019d tried to help her run the ranch and deal with the hired hands more effectively.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

He had to admit that Laura had come a long way. She was handling Peggy and the ranch much better now, and he hoped that she would continue to be open to learning new things\u2014maybe she would even come to appreciate classic literature and poetry in time.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

The thing he found most frustrating was that as Laura became upset, she pulled away while claiming to have a headache, rather than staying to talk things out. There would be no more headaches once they were married. She would learn to speak her mind and listen to his thoughts until they could reach a conclusion. He knew he wouldn\u2019t win every argument, and didn\u2019t want to. But he wanted to know what he was up against instead of having to guess or back away and deal with it later. His experience in the dessert with the madman, Kane, had left him unable to tolerate mind games of any sort. He insisted on honestly now. While he was giving Laura some latitude as they got to know each other, he was going explain the need for her to be straightforward . In fact he was going to talk to her about this as soon as he got home\u2026well maybe after giving her the ring and setting the date\u2026but definitely right after that.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam understood that Laura\u2019s first marriage had been a disaster. She had been honest about that. She knew that she hadn\u2019t been prepared for wedlock to a worldly man and had hated her husband for treating her like a child and then betraying her. Yet she sometimes acted like a petulant child when things didn\u2019t go her way.\u00a0 She was so different when she let her guard down and allowed him into her thoughts. \u00a0Those were their best times together.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

After they were married, he intended to gently lead her to the enjoyment of physical love.\u00a0 There was no question that there were times when Laura was cold and unapproachable. She would seem to be comfortable in his arms or with his touch and kiss, but then would pull away with the excuse that she had much to do. He\u2019d always ascribed that to her previous bad experience. Yet he\u2019d watched one night as she\u2019d let his cousin hold her hand to tell a story of a stage robbery he\u2019d been in. She\u2019d looked at Will with such trust and openness that Adam had been spurred to jealousy. It had been irrational, but he\u2019d felt it. Maybe it was that after bringing Laura forward through her fears and misgivings, and helping her to face her problems as a reasoned adult, he resented that her heart might be won over so easily\u2014by someone else. \u00a0And by Will of all people; he was a better man than Laura\u2019s husband, while being of a similar ilk.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

What made the trials with Laura worthwhile was that there was Peggy. The child was spirited and free, and she had given him her love and trust easily once she got to know him. He often lay awake wondering if he would feel the same about Laura if there was no Peggy. The child helped him understand the joy of parenthood and made him hope there\u2019d soon be other children in the new house. Peggy and Laura would be his life and he would show them what a man of honor was like. He\u2019d protect them and create a home where they\u2019d be happy. That would be enough to start\u2014even if love had to come along later.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

This had all seemed perfectly logical to him\u2014until he\u2019d seen Melinda and recalled what passion felt like. A strange new disquiet was niggling at his mind as he began to consider that maybe it wasn\u2019t enough. Was he trying to make a home where Laura and Peggy would be happy at the expense of his own happiness? Was it enough to hope that love would follow if everything worked out right?<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Melinda had given him much to think about.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

That brought him back to the need for apologies: first for missing the party, then for \u201cother\u201d things that would remain undetailed. Nothing had happened with Melinda. They had dinner together and talked in the salon until dawn. There was a kiss goodbye\u2014a kiss and nothing more. Yet he knew that if Melinda had taken one step closer\u2026he would be on a trip home to apologize for breaking an engagement.\u00a0 The stifling atmosphere of the coach closed in around him and he shut his eyes tighter, hoping to force his mind to rest.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

There was no rest.<\/em><\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

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

 <\/p>\n

Apologies<\/em>\u2026he wondered why it seemed he was always apologizing to Laura. It would be easier if she told him what she really thought instead of saying it didn\u2019t matter and then being angry because it did. Those false starts and missteps always ended up badly, necessitating his contrition to get things moving forward. And now there were apologies needed again and he\u2019d do his best to get through them with a smile. This time he was bringing a ring and the promise of a date to start their time together.\u00a0 He hoped that might smooth the situation and ease Laura\u2019s growing fretfulness about the wedding.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

When the stage stopped for a fresh team, Adam climbed up to the driver\u2019s seat instead of into the passenger cabin. He knew Mike from his many trips to Sacramento and asked, \u201cMind if I ride shotgun to Virginia City?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Mike nodded as he spat a brown, slimy plug of tobacco to the ground from his perch. \u201cSure thing, Mr. Cartwright. Can\u2019t blame you for wantin\u2019 to ride out here. You must be feeling a might trapped inside.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

As he settled onto the bench and stretched his legs forward, Adam mumbled under his breath, \u201cTruer words were never spoken!\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

A West-Bound Train<\/strong><\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Melinda Hayworth was heading from Sacramento to San Francisco\u2014her last stop in California before returning to Boston. She was promoting her system of preparing young women to be governesses. The call of gold and silver, as well as the opportunities to own large ranches and farms, had brought many families to the great open West.\u00a0 But the towns that had sprouted up to support these endeavors seldom had good schools.\u00a0 Families who had come from the East wanted their children educated well, and a large need existed for teachers and governesses.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Sacramento was a week-long stop on a three year tour arranged by her publisher to train those who would use and sell her product. She was tired of traveling but still enjoyed the opportunity to talk with so many people. Her life seemed full; she was content\u2026until three days ago when she happened to be molested by a couple of thugs and was saved by none other than Adam Cartwright.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cAdam,\u201d she spoke silently.\u00a0Why now. I thought I had forgotten you, and now<\/em>\u2026. All her years of pushing him to the back of her mind were gone as his image flooded her memory\u2014and what an image. The years of ranch work had changed him from the gangly young man she had fallen in love with, to a broad-shouldered, muscular man who had punched out her attacker with one swing. She remembered how his golden skin stood out against his black shirt and hat, and how his gunbelt slipped low around his waist while the holster rested against on his thigh.\u00a0Lucky holster<\/em>, she thought as she fanned herself. \u00a0How long would it take to forget him this time? Or more appropriately, how long would it take her tamp down the flame until it cooled enough that she could think of him without the way-down ache and longing?<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

After he\u2019d rescued her, they\u2019d spent the evening together, and found out why they\u2019d lost touch. Each had assumed the other had lost interest as their lives advanced, but it wasn\u2019t true. He was engaged now; that really changed nothing. She had stopped thinking about him as her fianc\u00e9 some time ago\u2026and yet knowing that he was engaged did change everything deep inside.\u00a0 Not knowing whether he was married had always let her think that perhaps he couldn\u2019t forget her any more than she could forget him. The knot in her stomach kept growing throughout their time together until she thought she might explode with wanting him. She couldn\u2019t speak her feelings, not now. Not since he was engaged\u2026to someone else.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

They\u2019d been together for hours, and it was still too soon when he\u2019d said goodbye.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

She looked into his eyes as they parted and was struck by what she saw: he loved her too. She knew it, but it did not matter because he belonged to someone else. He had leaned to kiss her, lingering a moment as their foreheads touched\u2014and her heart broke as he left.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

She could not stop wondering what might have happened if instead of leaving, he had taken one step closer. The thought plagued her now. Would that one step have brought her into his arms, or would she have fallen at his feet, begging him not to leave her again. She wasn\u2019t sure.\u00a0Why is life so unfair? We both still love one another, yet we can\u2019t be together.<\/em><\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

The question didn\u2019t matter; her broken heart didn\u2019t matter. He was on his way to be married and she would continue waiting for a suitable substitute for Adam Cartwright to come along.\u00a0 Who am I kidding? There\u2019s no substitute. I\u2019m doomed to wander the world looking for a tall man with curly hair, dancing hazel eyes and a smile that brightens a room. And even then, he won\u2019t be Adam.<\/em><\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

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

 <\/p>\n

She laughed wryly at her thoughts, and then allowed her tears to flow again.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Three Days Earlier<\/strong><\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Melinda was early and stopped at the window of the jewelry store she had passed on her way to the auditorium each day since her arrival in Sacramento. She was giving lectures at a building a few doors away and always allowed a little window shopping time to consider which gem-adorned bracelet she\u2019d buy if her budget actually allowed it. The store manager changed his display a little every day and she could always find something she would like to have.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

She saw the jeweler glance toward her, giving a wave of recognition and greeting before he turned back to his customer. Melinda cupped her hand against the glass to reduce the sunlight\u2019s glare, hoping to see what the tall man inside the store was purchasing. He was dressed in black from his hat to his boots, and she wondered what sort of man would wear such attire. Was he gunman, a preacher or just a man who was so assured of himself that his attire made a statement? Considering this for a moment, she dubbed him, \u201cThe Man in Black.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Those thoughts dissolved when she realized he was examining a tray of gold wedding bands. \u201cSomeone is getting married,\u201d she chirped happily to herself. \u201cI don\u2019t know who he is, but I know what he is: he\u2019s a man in love,\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

She sighed. There was no expectation that she would marry soon, but that didn\u2019t stop her from appreciating another\u2019s happiness.\u00a0 Continuing her spying, she watched as he picked up the widest band to examine it more closely. It was beautiful\u2014a brushed gold with nice curving profile. Melinda raised her own hand, imagining what it might look like on her left ring finger. \u00a0\u201cHmm,\u201d she murmured, \u201cI hope his bride is petite. That ring won\u2019t look good on a larger woman\u2019s hand.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

The Man in Black chose the ring she liked, and as the clerk placed it in a box, Melinda went back to examining the onyx and emerald jewelry that she\u2019d been having her own love affair with all week. After a bit of ogling, she squinted at the clock inside the store to see how much time was left before she would need to move along. She caught sight of the customer again as he waited for his purchase. There was something familiar about him; something very familiar. There wasn\u2019t time to comb her memory for the answer before she was approached by two disheveled-looking men who reeked of liquor and sweat.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYou\u2019re one fine lookin\u2019 woman, miss. I don\u2019t s\u2019pose you\u2019d like to join us for a morning quaff at the drinkin\u2019 establishment down the block?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

The man\u2019s breath smelled like rotting teeth and cheap booze, making Melinda\u2019s stomach turn. Her instinct was to run but decided she might try being cordial while moving nearer the doorway to the jewelry store until she could sneak inside. \u201cYou\u2019ll have to go along on your own, you two.\u201d She tried to laugh but it came out sounding strangled. \u201cMy husband\u2019s in this store and I\u2019m waiting for him.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

The second of the pair spoke up. \u201cNow why don\u2019t I believe that? I\u2019m thinking you don\u2019t like us much and are trying to get rid of us.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

The hair was standing up on her neck as she spoke while sidestepping toward the door. \u201cI assure you I\u2019d be most pleased to share a beverage with you, but my husband\u2026\u201d she said pointing to the store.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYou\u2019re just lying. You been standing there all the while we was walking up the street. No man would leave a purdy thing like you waitin\u2019 outside.\u201d He stepped in closer and tried to grab her arm. \u201cNow how\u2019s about you come with us like we asked. We been real nice so far, but we don\u2019t like to be refused.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Melinda gave a yelp of fear as she raised her umbrella. \u201cGet back or I\u2019ll smack you,\u201d she yelled, hoping to get the attention of the two men inside. Both drunks now had their hands on her arms and were pulling her as she let out a scream.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Inside the store, the customer noticed the scuffle and hollered to the jeweler that he\u2019d be back. He yanked the door open and pulled one of the men from Melinda\u2019s arm, laying him out with an uppercut to the jaw. The other let go without further encouragement and staggered down the street.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Melinda was tugging against the men\u2019s grasp, and went flying to the ground as their reverse pull was released. She sat stunned until she was assisted up by her protector.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cAre you hurt?\u201d he asked as helped her rise. Once she was standing, he saw her face and gasped, \u201cMelinda?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

She stared back with equal surprise. \u201cAdam? What are you doing here?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cSaving you, it would seem.\u201d He chuckled as he retrieved her case and umbrella, handing them back to her. \u201cTo answer your question\u2026I still live in Nevada\u2026 the next state east\u2026and do business in Sacramento frequently. This is a long way from Boston though, so the better question might be, what are you doing here?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

The store owner exited and handed Adam a small package wrapped in flowered paper. \u201cI don\u2019t want you to forget your ring, Mr. Cartwright. I\u2019ve sent for the police. At least they\u2019ll get one of them put away. I\u2019ve seen men like that prowling these streets lately and it\u2019s a shame that good people have to deal with riffraff and boozers.\u201d Turning toward Melinda, he added, \u201cI\u2019m sorry, Miss, if you stop by later I\u2019ll give you a nice discount on any item you purchase.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Melinda didn\u2019t hear a word the man said after he handed Adam the ring box. She looked over the black hat and clothing Adam was wearing and realized she was watching\u00a0him<\/em>\u00a0choose and purchase the wedding ring. Her heart sank to her feet. Was he getting married as she surmised, or was he perhaps buying an anniversary present for his wife? She felt betrayed and had no idea why. It was unreasonable for her to be upset, but for a moment she couldn\u2019t breathe and slid down the wall of the store to keep from falling as blackness swirled before her eyes.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

The darkness cleared as she sat. She was finally able to calm the two nervous faces peering down at her. \u201cI\u2019m sorry to have frightened you. Guess I just realized what almost happened. Don\u2019t worry; I\u2019m fine now.\u201d Taking Adam\u2019s offered hand she stood again, and thanked him as she rested briefly against his arm.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019ll walk with you to wherever you\u2019re going.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Her reply was terse. \u201cI told you that I\u2019m fine, Adam.\u201d Her shock was replaced by anger as she thought back to the years of wondering why he had stopped writing to her. \u201cYou haven\u2019t cared about me for some time, so why pretend that you do now?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam recoiled. \u201cI stopped caring? What about you?\u201d His tone relaxed. \u201cListen, we can\u2019t figure out what happened in the past while standing here on the street, but I assure you that I\u2019m concerned about what\u00a0just happened<\/em>\u00a0to you. I want to escort you to your destination.\u201d He chuckled as he took her arm, \u201cI see you haven\u2019t lost any of your fire, Melinda.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

She laughed as well. \u201cIs that what you call it? I think the term you used all those years ago was stubbornness.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

The jeweler bid them goodbye. \u201cRemember what I said about a good discount on a piece of your choice, Miss. Stop in any time.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019m just going down the street,\u201d she said as she pointed to the ornate fa\u00e7ade of the fourth building.\u00a0 \u00a0\u201cIt\u2019s a theater; I\u2019m using the auditorium to train some young women in my teaching methods.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

They\u2019d settled into \u201cfriendly\u201d conversation even though their tense jaws and stiff posture indicated they were still not at ease with one another.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam asked, \u201cWhat kind of method is that?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cDo you remember how I used to grumble about the materials available for governesses? That system was based on the English method of private teaching. It was steeped in tradition, but didn\u2019t take into account the rapidly changing times, or give any ideas on how to make learning come alive for the children. It was all rote and discipline.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam nodded. \u201cI do recall that you put a lot of effort into planning activities for your charges.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI kept track of all those ideas and after I graduated from college, I wrote a set of materials to help teachers and governesses. This style of teaching doesn\u2019t appeal to everyone, but those who don\u2019t have the school systems and resources that are available in the East seem to appreciate the ideas very much. Children out here are often taught by teachers who are little more than children themselves, with no more than a certificate from the local school they attended. These are smart women, but they aren\u2019t prepared to take on the challenges of their positions.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

He stopped walking to look at her. \u201cIt sounds like there\u2019s a great need for this, Melinda. You should be so proud.\u201d They continued on until they reached the steps and he watched as she started up. Unwilling to part without knowing more about her life, he suggested, \u201cHow about if I come back later and walk you to where you\u2019re staying\u2014perhaps we could have dinner?\u00a0 My stage was cancelled, so I have time if you do.\u201d He flinched, and added, \u201cThat is if you aren\u2019t expected by someone else.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Melinda smiled at his sudden guardedness. Had he assumed that she was single and then had a flash of insight that perhaps she had a husband waiting back at the hotel? She liked that he might be feeling a little of what she had felt earlier when he shoved a newly purchased wedding ring into his pocket. \u201cI travel with a companion from my publishing company; an older woman who protects me like a mother hen. But we\u2019ve been together for nearly three years, and she\u2019s pretty sure I won\u2019t get into any trouble. She\u2019s off visiting friends today and I would enjoy having a dinner companion. I\u2019ll see you here at five.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

***<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam waved as Melinda disappeared through the entrance, but instead of leaving, he waited until she was inside for a bit, then entered the same doors and found the auditorium where she was giving her presentation. He took a seat in the shadows of the last row and slid deep into the chair, hoping she wouldn\u2019t see him from the lectern at the front.\u00a0 The forward part of the room was crowded with young, eager-looking women, and he got comfortable as Melinda called the group to order and began to speak.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

As it neared noon, he slipped out of the room, impressed with what he had learned so far. Melinda led the group with the deftness of a conductor leading an orchestra. She laid out her plan in easily understood language and then built it with a crescendo of ideas and suggestions. The women in the hall responded with laughter and nods of comprehension as she helped them see how wonderful teaching could be with useful tools to fall back on. The afternoon session was to include a few good ideas on how teachers could work with unruly pupils. Adam chuckled as Melinda said that, wondering if anyone could have handled Little Joe\u2019s strong personality\u2026even with a \u201cfew good ideas.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

He was back in his seat for the afternoon and found out that he was right in encouraging Laura to tell Peggy the truth about her father\u2019s death\u2026according to Melinda\u2019s way of thinking anyway. \u00a0She told the group, \u201cChildren are far more resilient than we give them credit for, and it\u2019s harder for them to suspect the truth that\u2019s kept from them, than it is for them to face it.\u201d It was the philosophy his family lived by: face the truth, take a step at a time and get through it. He\u2019d faced the varied tragic events of his childhood and had become stronger for them. This was the sanest way to deal with problems in life. He thought of Laura and hoped that she would embrace the benefits of living this way as well.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam lost track of what Melinda was saying for a time as his mind wandered back to Nevada. A thought nagged at him; was\u00a0he<\/em>\u00a0facing the truth about Laura? Had he been overtaken by his need to have his own family? Had he been pressured and manipulated to take this route, or had he actually come to believe that Laura and Peggy were his future? Sometimes it seemed clear that he had truly chosen this direction, while the next minute it was all muddy. He set those thoughts aside, sighed deeply, and determined to continue forward until something happened to convince him that his decision was flawed. He chuckled inwardly hoping that if he did receive a sign, it would be obvious enough to knock him on his rear end and make him take notice.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

They chatted about the weather and other non-personal topics as they walked toward Melinda\u2019s hotel that afternoon. Adam had waited for her outside where they\u2019d parted, even though he\u2019d never gone away. He wanted to talk about her lectures, but since she didn\u2019t know he had been there all day, he would try to bring it up in some other way.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Stopping at the jewelry store where they met, Adam asked, \u201cWould you like to step inside and purchase your discounted item?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Melinda smirked, \u201cI doubt I could afford much of anything in there, even if it was marked down.\u201d She leaned her forehead against the glass and smiled at the gold bracelet with the starbursts of emeralds and small diamonds. Pointing to it, she said yearningly, \u201cThat\u2019s the one I want but I can\u2019t get it right now.\u201d Her eyes twinkled as she looked at Adam. \u201cI think it\u2019s always wise to hold out for the best.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cA wise philosophy, indeed.\u201d He suspected Melinda was referring to much more than a jewelry purchase and quickly changed the subject. \u00a0\u201cWhen we reach your hotel, I\u2019ll make a dinner reservation for 6:30 and meet you then. I\u2019m sure you can use a few minutes to freshen up.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cDo you think I need \u2018freshening up?\u2019\u201d she asked. As she heard him stammering to reply, she patted his arm and said, \u201cI\u2019m teasing you, Adam. I will appreciate the time to makes some notes on the day and change into a more stylish dress. I\u2019m done looking like a schoolmarm for today.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

A Table for Two<\/strong><\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

He was waiting at the table when she entered the room.\u00a0She\u2019s definitely not a schoolmarm<\/em>, he thought as she walked toward him in a form-fitting, purple satin dress. Her hair was pulled back on the top, but fell in soft curls to frame her face. Adam thought of Laura\u2014making an instant comparison between the two women that surprised him. He wondered why Laura\u2019s hair always seemed so stiff. It was a lovely color, but seemed a solid mass that even the wind could not disturb. Was it just the texture that was different, or did she do something to shellac it in place. He had no idea what women did to their hair, but assumed that it was one of those things he\u2019d find out. His cheeks turned a deep red as he realized how these thoughts betrayed his fianc\u00e9, and resolved to atone for it later. \u00a0For now he rose to greet his guest.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cHow did you like my lectures today?\u201d Melinda asked as she got settled. Assuming his blush was due to her question, she continued, \u201cYou probably thought I wouldn\u2019t see you there in the back, but my eyesight is quite keen.\u201d She laid her hand on his; her thumb caressing his fingers. It was instinctual\u2014something she had always done when they were together. \u201cI\u2019m surprised that you spent the day listening to me chatter on.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI was truly impressed.\u201d He answered sincerely. His eyes moved down to their hands and brought hers to his for a kiss. The comparisons flowed unbidden. Melinda had always needed a physical connection with him. She had held his hand as they\u2019d read together, and had touched his cheek as she spoke to him. He realized how much he missed this\u2026and wondered why Laura would break away from his handhold, and would turn away from his touch or embrace.\u00a0The situation is different<\/em>, he admonished himself.\u00a0Laura has a child and is probably unwilling to be seen being openly affectionate in front of Peggy<\/em>. At least that\u2019s what he told himself as he concentrated again on what Melinda was saying.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

They spoke more about her project and then Melinda asked, \u201cYou\u2019re engaged?\u201d To his questioning look she added, \u201cI saw you picking out a wedding band at the jewelers today, and since you haven\u2019t mentioned a wife, I suspect you haven\u2019t tied the knot yet\u2026?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI forgot how observant you are. We are engaged but haven\u2019t set the date.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cIs this someone from Virginia City; someone you\u2019ve known all your life?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYes and no.\u201d He smiled as her eyebrows rose in question. \u201cLaura owns a ranch near the Ponderosa and has been in the area for some time. I only came to know her lately. She\u2019s a widow and was having some problems running her spread after her husband died. I stepped in with some advice and assistance, and we got to know each other better.\u201d Her hand was still in his, and even though he knew he should release it, he didn\u2019t. \u201cHow about you? Are you thinking of marriage?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Melinda shook her head no. \u201cIt\u2019s not for lack of proposals.\u201d She grinned at him and continued,<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cBut I told you that I will wait for the best.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Her eyes dropped to her lap as she withdrew her hand. \u201cI didn\u2019t want to bring this up, but I have to, Adam. It\u2019s bothered me all these years and I won\u2019t be myself with you until I know the answer.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

His right eyebrow arched upward dramatically. He\u2019d suspected this topic would come up, just not so soon. But Melinda was direct; she said what was on her mind and didn\u2019t play games. \u201cWhat do you want to know?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWhat happened?\u201d She laughed at herself. \u201cPerhaps I should to be more specific. I thought you loved me, Adam. I know that I loved you. After your graduation, you said you needed to go home to repay your father by working on the ranch. That made sense since I was going back to school and would be gone for a while too. But we promised that after that we were going to take on the world together. And then\u2026in no time, I didn\u2019t hear from you anymore. It seemed clear that you left me behind, both in person and in your heart. Was I wrong about the way you felt? Were you lying when you said you loved me and that nothing would keep us apart?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Her words cut him. \u201cWhat do you mean, I stopped writing? I sent letters every week to Indiana where you were going to school.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWhy would you send them there? I wasn\u2019t in Indiana. I wrote you that my employer pulled some strings and got me into Mary Sharp College in Winchester, Tennessee. It was a woman\u2019s college gaining a good reputation as offering a well-rounded curriculum.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI never got that letter\u2014and apparently a lot of other ones as well. I wrote several times to your aunt\u2019s home in Boston too, figuring there might have been something wrong with the other address. After several months without hearing from you\u2026I assumed you had found \u2018other\u2019 interests.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cOh, dear,\u201d she choked out, \u201cMy aunt wouldn\u2019t have recognized my name and undoubtedly discarded them or put them somewhere and forgot. You remember she was having problems already when you were with your grandfather.\u00a0 Her mental condition worsened rapidly after I left for school.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

They were stunned, staring at each other in the horrible realization that a poor postal system and an elderly woman had led to their demise as a couple.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Melinda spoke first. \u201cI\u2019m sorry, Adam. I should have known you wouldn\u2019t have just stopped writing even if your feelings had changed. You would have told me.\u201d She searched her heart to find an answer that couldn\u2019t be found, and finally breathed, \u201cI should have confirmed your address with your grandfather, but I only got back to Boston once in those years I was in school, and then was too embarrassed to say anything. I thought it would put him in an uncomfortable position if he knew that you didn\u2019t care for me any longer.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019m sorry too. My father kept me plenty busy once I got home, and when I thought you moved on in your life without me, I put myself into the ranch and tried not to think too much about it. It\u2019s funny\u2026Grandfather asked about you in his letters. I told him that we had lost touch. \u00a0I thought of asking him to speak to you when you visited your aunt, but I felt the same way that you did about putting him in the middle of an uncomfortable situation.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Their meals arrived and they pushed food around on their plates in silence while sipping their wine. Neither could regain their appetite as they began to understand what they had lost\u2014and that it was too late to reclaim it.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

There was little to do except move ahead\u2026one step at a time. To that end, Adam asked about her experience in Tennessee. Melinda answered all his questions and then made her own series of inquiries about his family, life on the ranch and what he was doing with his engineering degree. The conversation got easier and they were soon laughing and enjoying their reunion in the best way they could.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

After they moved to the salon for an after-dinner sherry, Melinda said, \u201cTell me about Laura.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

He remained quietly thoughtful. The evening had brought the remembrance of what life with Melinda had been like.\u00a0 He still loved her\u2014and probably always would. You never forgot the \u201cfirsts\u201d in life, and he and Melinda had shared many firsts. He considered her question, but right then he honestly didn\u2019t want to talk about Laura. He felt Melinda\u2019s hand on his cheek as she said again, \u201cTell me about her.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cShe\u2019s a lovely woman with a seven-year-old daughter\u2026\u201d Talking to Melinda had always been easy\u2026and he began to talk. He described how he had come to care for Laura while showing her how to run the ranch. His eyes sparkled as he told her about Peggy and what a joy it was to think of having a child. He shared details about the house he was building. The conversation flowed on to a few other things he probably shouldn\u2019t have shared.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

All the while he spoke, he held Melinda\u2019s hand; grasping it like a lifeline.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cDo you love her, Adam?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cHuh? Didn\u2019t I say that?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cAs a matter of fact, you didn\u2019t. You said that she is lovely; that you admire what she\u2019s accomplished; that she\u2019s a good mother and even a good housekeeper, but you didn\u2019t say you love her. It sounded like you were describing someone you were thinking of hiring to run your household.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cThat\u2019s how it sounded?\u201d She nodded. \u201cMaybe I\u2019m just not comfortable saying I love her to you.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Her lips pursed in thought. \u201cMaybe\u2026 But you didn\u2019t say you loved her in your expressions either. Women can hear the love in a man\u2019s voice even when they don\u2019t say the words. A man in love is breathless when he talks about the woman he loves. You should be upset that you missed your engagement party, but you aren\u2019t\u2026not really. It sounds more like you were relieved.\u00a0 You should be anxious with excitement at showing the house to Laura, but you talk more about the frame and trusses than about what it will mean to both of you.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

His tone was mildly terse, \u201cSo, maybe I don\u2019t like parties and I look at the house from an engineer\u2019s point of view rather than as a husband. I\u2019m in my 30\u2019s now, Melinda. Love isn\u2019t as important when you get to be my age. You start to want a home and family. Love can come once you\u2019re together.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Melinda\u2019s mouth formed an oval of surprise. \u201cLove has everything to do with it, Adam! You may have told me a lot more than you intended when you said that Laura felt betrayed by her first husband. Is this marriage more about making things right for her and Peggy, than it is about love? If you don\u2019t love her\u2014don\u2019t feel passion now while your love should be in the full blossom of getting to know one another, you\u2019ll betray both of you by marrying.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

He grimaced. \u201cYou don\u2019t pull your punches, do you?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cNo I don\u2019t. And you never did before either. What have you abandoned in yourself to become a rancher in the West? Where\u2019s the passionate man who whispered Elizabeth Barrett Browning to me the night we\u2026well you know when you said it.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201c\u2018If thou must love me, let it be for naught except for love\u2019s sake only.\u2019\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cSee\u2026you do remember. Do you whisper poetry to Laura, or just talk about ranch hands and breeding stock?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cThat\u2019s not fair! What I say to Laura is not your business.\u201d He\u2019d leaned toward her in anger, but slumped back into his chair as it passed. \u201cI\u2019m sorry. It\u2019s not easy for me to speak of feelings. I believe I will love Laura a great deal someday.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cPerhaps,\u201d Her tone softened, \u201cBut, \u2018As love without esteem is capricious and volatile, esteem without love is languid and cold.\u2019\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cJonathan Swift. Your memory is far too good, young lady. You\u2019re using my own favorite quotes against me.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI have nothing to gain in this Adam. I don\u2019t expect that you will suddenly throw away the life you have now and come running to me\u2026or start loving me again. But I was always honest with you and wont\u2019 stop now.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

He wanted to say,\u00a0how can I start loving you again when I never stopped<\/em>, but said instead, \u201cThank you for your honestly.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

They turned toward reminiscences of Boston after that\u2014not their romance, but people they knew and what was happening there now. The wait staff came by and politely told then that the salon was closing but that they were welcome to remain. Golden morning light was streaming between the heavy drapes when they finally fell silent. \u00a0Adam rose. \u201cI\u2019m here until tomorrow. Dinner tonight?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cA short one. I\u2019m leaving tomorrow too.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019ll meet you outside the auditorium at five.\u201d He suggested<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019ll be there.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam brought along a basket of food from his hotel when he met Melinda. They walked to a park where they had a picnic on the grass. The conversation stayed light as he told her about his engineering work on the Sacramento harbor some years earlier. Their discussion turned to what they were reading and the plays and operas they had been able to see. As the light faded, they walked to Melinda\u2019s hotel.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Standing at arm\u2019s length, he leaned to kiss her gently on the lips, and then whispered, \u201cI will miss you,\u201d as they continued to hold hands over the distance between them.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cAnd I will think of you often, and hope for your happy marriage.\u201d She winked. \u201cI won\u2019t expect an invitation, but you could write to let me know when it is so that I might keep you and Laura in my prayers. Send it to my aunt\u2019s address in Boston. I\u2019ll be going there when I\u2019m done in San Francisco. She left me the house when she died and I live there when I\u2019m not traveling.\u201d\u00a0 She fought to control her voice so as not to betray her sadness. \u201cI\u2019ll keep an eye on Abel for you.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019d appreciate it. He always thought highly of you and will like the attention.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Her hands dropped to her side, but her eyes remained focused on him. \u201cYou taught me so many things, Adam. I learned how to love because of you. You gave me a voice to say what I wanted\u2014to argue and press my points without fear\u2014and released my passion\u2014for learning\u2026and in other ways as well. But there\u2019s one thing you didn\u2019t teach me.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWhat\u2019s that?\u201d His head tilted.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cHow to forget you.\u201d\u00a0 She reached to gently touch the face of the man she knew she would love forever, then turned and walked into her hotel. She looked back once inside and saw him place his hand on his cheek where hers had been. Then he walked out of her life again.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

***<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

A Year Later<\/strong><\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben walked into the house and saw Adam sprawled in the blue chair, reading. \u201cOh good. I\u2019m glad to see you taking it easy. I\u2019ve been worried that you might aggravate your back again with all the hard labor you\u2019ve been doing.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam looked up with the patience honed from being Ben Cartwright\u2019s son. The man always worried, and always told you what he thought.\u00a0 \u201cI\u2019m fine, Pa.\u201d He noticed the yellow paper of a telegram peeking out from the pocket of his father\u2019s jacket and pointed. \u201cWhat\u2019s that?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cIt\u2019s from Mrs. McIntyre, Abel\u2019s housekeeper. She says he\u2019s had a stroke but is doing well for now.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam\u2019s heart skipped as his mouth dried to cotton. \u201cAnd what about after now?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben moved to his son\u2019s side. \u201cIt was a bad one, Adam. He\u2019s partially paralyzed and isn\u2019t able to speak many words. There\u2019s no indication of how long he might live.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Taking the telegram, Adam read it for himself and leaned his head into his hands as he thought about his grandfather.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam had always intended to get back to Boston for a visit, but it seemed there was always more to do, and he hadn\u2019t made the trip. This last year had been especially hard for him. He\u2019d fallen while setting trusses on the house and spent several weeks recovering from a spinal injury. During that time he\u2019d found out that Laura really loved Will, and he\u2019d sent them away together with his best wishes.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

There was no blame. He was a different man when he got back from Sacramento too. After meeting Melinda, he found himself making constant comparisons between her and Laura\u2014with Laura coming up short in the balance. But he\u2019d persevered and tried to set a date for the wedding, still assuming all would work out once they were together. Overall he considered it a blessing that in the time that he was vacillating about his feelings toward her, Laura had been falling in love with Will. At least one of them seemed to have a happy ending.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Since then he\u2019d poured himself into work again, and tried not to think of anything else. He\u2019d just finished a stint as a substitute teacher in Virginia City and had tried some of Melinda\u2019s teaching methods to encourage student participation. Instead of \u201cteaching\u201d history, he sent his students out to find out how their families had helped to create Virginia City. The project was popular with the children, but the probing he did to lay the groundwork of that history exposed some terrible truths about the founding fathers. Two deaths and an arrest had followed.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam was restless. There was no disguising it any longer and the telegram helped him make up his mind. He looked up and spoke the words he needed to say. \u201cPa\u2026I\u2019ve been thinking.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben nodded as he sat across from him on the large wooden table where he\u2019d held many of these \u2018I\u2019ve been thinking\u2019 conversations with his sons. \u201cYou need to go to Boston?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019d like to say goodbye to Grandfather\u2026and work in engineering again. I\u2019m sure I\u2019ll find a firm that will take me on.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019ve noticed that you seem unsettled and figured this news about Abel would spur you to action.\u201d They talked for a while longer about Abel, each man recalling their favorite memories of the man.\u201d As Adam rose to head to his room, Ben asked, \u201cIs your friend, Melinda, still living next door to Abel?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI think she still owns the house. She travels frequently, but the last time I heard from Grandfather, he mentioned that she\u2019d been there to visit him.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI suspect that it will be nice seeing her again as well.\u201d Ben smiled as Adam\u2019s cheeks took on a pinkish glow.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYes, it will.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben became thoughtful. \u201cDo you ever wonder if the reason you haven\u2019t found someone you really wanted to marry out here is because the person you loved was across the country? You came close to marrying Laura. I think you\u2019d convinced yourself that it was what you wanted, but I don\u2019t think you ever loved her enough to go through with it. I suspected it wouldn\u2019t happen\u2026even before Will entered the picture.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019m still not sure what I felt for Laura. I think I wanted to protect her and show her a better life. In fact, I think that was often my motivation with the women I came to care for. I did love them in a way, but perhaps I thought that if I could make things better or right for them, I\u2019d find what I needed as well.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYou\u2019ve said a lot there, son. I think that\u2019s happened with each of us in this family at some point. It\u2019s sometimes hard to distinguish between love and philanthropy. We\u2019ve been richly blessed\u2014especially so since you returned from school. When you have little to offer, you love for love\u2019s sake. But once there\u2019s so much to offer, we can get confused and think that we can make things right for others who don\u2019t have the same resources. What we\u2019ve all found is that this is seldom what\u2019s right for them\u2026or us. We can\u2019t fix everyone who\u2019s broken\u2026but that hasn\u2019t kept us from trying.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWhen I came back from Sacramento, I knew I was different. It just took time and falling from a ladder again to figure out how.\u201d He smiled sadly at his father.\u00a0 \u201cIt became obvious that it wasn\u2019t enough to have a nursemaid, or a wonderful housekeeper, or any of the other attributes I ascribed to Laura. I know now that I want what you had when you married my mother. I think you\u2019re right. You had nothing but dreams to offer her and she believed that if she was with you, anything was possible. You were going to take on the world together. \u00a0I want to feel that same union of heart and purpose.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cThen it worked out right, son.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

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

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019ll ask you to think things over again before making a final decision, but I\u2019ll support you no matter what that is.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

A World Away<\/strong><\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

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

 <\/p>\n

Adam had been back in Boston for nearly three weeks and hadn\u2019t seen any activity at the house next door. Melinda didn\u2019t have a housekeeper and Mrs. McIntyre could only tell him that \u201cThe young lady is away on one of them trips again.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

In the meantime, he\u2019d gotten settled with Abel and had taken a job at an engineering firm nearby. His intention was to stay until his grandfather no longer needed him, and then he would look at his options again.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

The older man seemed overjoyed at having his grandson back and recovered a bit of his spunk and speech. The two men spent hours catching up\u2014with Abel adding comments as he could. These were blessed days of reconnection for both of them.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

In the quiet hours, Adam found himself watching the house beyond the iron fence to the north. \u00a0He hadn\u2019t written of his coming, but had sent an earlier letter telling Melinda that the wedding hadn\u2019t taken place. He came to Boston with the expectation that he would see his grandfather through his final days and nothing more. He knew Melinda loved him; he loved her. That didn\u2019t mean that they would be together. Eighteen months had passed since they had seen each other. His life had changed in that time and he knew that hers might have experienced similar upheavals.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

The two men were sitting in Abel\u2019s side yard when Adam saw a carriage pull up next door. The driver jumped down and trotted around the transport to assist Melinda as she exited. Adam could hear her laughing at something the man said and he frowned deeply as he saw her take his arm and head with him to her front door.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

He was angry at himself for feeling such a deep ache of disappointment. What had he expected\u2026that she would be waiting for him\u2014pining for him? And yet this seemed their fate. When he was engaged, she was not, and now it seemed the tables might have turned. Adam envied the man in the house with Melinda and wanted to throttle him and send him packing. He knew his jealousy was ridiculous, but he let it run its course and finally settled back to enjoy the sunshine with Abel.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

The older man pointed to Melinda\u2019s house, asking, \u201cIs she home?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

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

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cDon\u2019t sit here\u2026go!\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Abel\u2019s command came out as little more than a squeak, making Adam smile. \u201cShe\u2019s with someone now. I\u2019ll see her later.\u201d He\u2019d had enough of the great outdoors\u2014and looking at the empty carriage. \u201cShall we head inside?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Before he could move, Adam heard Melinda\u2019s voice again and saw that they were out of the house and heading toward the street. Her conversation floated to him on a breeze, \u201cI\u2019ll come to the office next Monday, Zeke, but at least now you have the manuscript. Thank you again for picking me up from the train.\u201d Adam tried not to be nosy, but craned his neck to see how they parted company.\u00a0She shook his hand!\u00a0<\/em>He felt relief. This still didn\u2019t mean that she wasn\u2019t engaged or keeping the company of a suitor, but for the moment he took what he could get.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Melinda lifted her face to feel the warm sunshine while she waited for her associate to drive away. As she turned back toward her house she saw that Abel was sitting in his yard, and she raised her hand in greeting. \u00a0Her hand dropped to her side in shock as she recognized the man sitting next to her neighbor. For a moment she could only stand there, fighting back her tears. She wondered if Adam was there for a visit\u2026or her. The paralysis left as she decided that there was only on way to find out, and she began walking toward them.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam met her midway.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

They stood as they had at their last meeting\u2014holding hands across a breach of time. But this time they each took a step closer.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

The kiss was long, communicating all that they needed to say. When it ended they turned to see Abel smiling. His wheezy voice called, \u201cFinally!\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cHe\u2019s right you know,\u201d Adam teased. \u201cIt\u2019s taken a long time and a lot of miles.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Melinda caressed his cheek. \u201cI\u2019ve told you before, Adam. The best is always worth waiting for.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

The End<\/p>\n

Next Story in the One Step Closer Series:<\/strong><\/p>\n

Til Death Do Us Part
\n<\/a>Two Hearts Broken
\n<\/a>In Search of Safety
\n<\/a>From Two to Three
\n<\/a>Changes in Fate<\/a><\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Disclaimer:\u00a0All publicly recognizable characters and settings are the property of their respective owners. The original characters and plot are the property of the author. No money is being made from this work. No copyright infringement is intended.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

<\/div>\n

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

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

Summary: \u00a0Adam\u00a0promised Laura that he’d be back for their engagement party.\u00a0But he’s delayed and during that time, he unexpectedly meets his first love – a young woman he knew in Boston.\u00a0After an evening spent talking,\u00a0they\u00a0realize\u00a0that they still love each other, yet\u00a0they\u00a0know that it can’t make a difference. Life and time have\u00a0sent them in opposite directions\u00a0and they part again, while wondering what might have happened if they had taken one step closer.\u00a0\u00a0This is a\u00a0what happens\u00a0during, and after\u00a0the episode, Triangle.<\/p>\n

Rated:\u00a0K+ WC 10,000<\/p>\n

One Step Closer Series, links to all the stories within the series included.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":82,"featured_media":5758,"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":[1005,7,23,61],"tags":[],"class_list":["post-6491","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-adam-cartwright","category-a-u","category-drama","category-missing-scene","wpcat-1005-id","wpcat-7-id","wpcat-23-id","wpcat-61-id"],"a3_pvc":{"activated":true,"total_views":2787,"today_views":1},"jetpack_featured_media_url":"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/wp-content\/uploads\/2014\/05\/Adams-English-Scenic2.jpg?fit=450%2C436&ssl=1","jetpack_likes_enabled":true,"jetpack-related-posts":[{"id":13792,"url":"https:\/\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/?p=13792","url_meta":{"origin":6491,"position":0},"title":"One Step Closer #6 – Changes in Fate (by MissJudy)","author":"missjudy","date":"February 16, 2017","format":false,"excerpt":"Summary: Ben, Hoss and Little Joe head to Boston to be with Adam after receiving the devastating news\u00a0that the entire Wadsworth family had perished at sea. \u00a0The Wadsworths had adopted Adam into their family when he'd been a student, and they'd renewed their support and friendship when he'd returned to\u2026","rel":"","context":"In "Alternate Universe"","block_context":{"text":"Alternate Universe","link":"https:\/\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/?cat=7"},"img":{"alt_text":"","src":"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/wp-content\/uploads\/2014\/04\/WoF-37Edengirl.jpg?fit=768%2C576&ssl=1&resize=350%2C200","width":350,"height":200,"srcset":"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/wp-content\/uploads\/2014\/04\/WoF-37Edengirl.jpg?fit=768%2C576&ssl=1&resize=350%2C200 1x, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/wp-content\/uploads\/2014\/04\/WoF-37Edengirl.jpg?fit=768%2C576&ssl=1&resize=525%2C300 1.5x, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/wp-content\/uploads\/2014\/04\/WoF-37Edengirl.jpg?fit=768%2C576&ssl=1&resize=700%2C400 2x"},"classes":[]},{"id":14619,"url":"https:\/\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/?p=14619","url_meta":{"origin":6491,"position":1},"title":"More Than a Memory (by JC)","author":"JC","date":"August 5, 2017","format":false,"excerpt":"Summary: \u00a0 Adam re-assesses his life in the aftermath of his broken engagement to Laura Dayton. (WHB and WHN for \u201cTriangle\u201d, written for the 2017 Ponderosa Paddlewheel Poker Tournament) Rating: \u00a0T \u00a0 \u00a0Word Count: \u00a04,221 More than a Memory Series, links to all stories included within.","rel":"","context":"In "Adam Cartwright"","block_context":{"text":"Adam Cartwright","link":"https:\/\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/?cat=1005"},"img":{"alt_text":"","src":"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/03\/Adam-serious1.jpg?fit=304%2C304&ssl=1&resize=350%2C200","width":350,"height":200},"classes":[]},{"id":6503,"url":"https:\/\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/?p=6503","url_meta":{"origin":6491,"position":2},"title":"One Step Closer #2 – Til Death Do We Part (by MissJudy)","author":"missjudy","date":"May 4, 2014","format":false,"excerpt":"Summary: \u00a0Adam's getting married! He's moved\u00a0to Boston to help his grandfather, and has\u00a0begun to build\u00a0a good life there, including\u00a0an engagement to the girl he fell in love with during college.\u00a0Their wedding is set to coincide with a unexpected visit from Ben Cartwright. All is well until Adam's fiancee disappears and\u2026","rel":"","context":"In "Adam Cartwright"","block_context":{"text":"Adam Cartwright","link":"https:\/\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/?cat=1005"},"img":{"alt_text":"","src":"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/wp-content\/uploads\/2014\/05\/Adams-English-Scenic2.jpg?fit=450%2C436&ssl=1&resize=350%2C200","width":350,"height":200},"classes":[]},{"id":45628,"url":"https:\/\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/?p=45628","url_meta":{"origin":6491,"position":3},"title":"Each Day #4 – The Meeting (by Dogwood)","author":"Dogwood","date":"April 13, 2019","format":false,"excerpt":"Summary:\u00a0 Part 4 of the Each Day Series.\u00a0 Laura and Will Cartwright visit the Ponderosa Rating:\u00a0 T\u00a0 (Words:\u00a0 39,305)","rel":"","context":"In "Adam Cartwright"","block_context":{"text":"Adam Cartwright","link":"https:\/\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/?cat=1005"},"img":{"alt_text":"","src":"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/03\/Preserving-Their-Legacy.png?fit=732%2C477&ssl=1&resize=350%2C200","width":350,"height":200,"srcset":"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/03\/Preserving-Their-Legacy.png?fit=732%2C477&ssl=1&resize=350%2C200 1x, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/03\/Preserving-Their-Legacy.png?fit=732%2C477&ssl=1&resize=525%2C300 1.5x, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/03\/Preserving-Their-Legacy.png?fit=732%2C477&ssl=1&resize=700%2C400 2x"},"classes":[]},{"id":6525,"url":"https:\/\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/?p=6525","url_meta":{"origin":6491,"position":4},"title":"One Step Closer #5 – From Two to Three a Family (by MissJudy)","author":"missjudy","date":"May 4, 2014","format":false,"excerpt":"Summary:\u00a0Adam and his wife, Melinda, are living in England, and getting\u00a0ready to welcome their first child. After\u00a0a fall\u00a0on the stairs, Adam must face the fear of losing his wife and child,\u00a0and he\u00a0comes to terms with his own\u00a0lingering grief over his mother's death.\u00a0We also see\u00a0the family back on the Ponderosa\u00a0waiting impatiently\u00a0for\u2026","rel":"","context":"In "Adam Cartwright"","block_context":{"text":"Adam Cartwright","link":"https:\/\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/?cat=1005"},"img":{"alt_text":"","src":"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/wp-content\/uploads\/2014\/05\/Adams-English-Scenic2.jpg?fit=450%2C436&ssl=1&resize=350%2C200","width":350,"height":200},"classes":[]},{"id":6512,"url":"https:\/\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/?p=6512","url_meta":{"origin":6491,"position":5},"title":"One Step Closer #4 – In Search of Safety (by MissJudy)","author":"missjudy","date":"May 4, 2014","format":false,"excerpt":"Summary: Following a harrowing experience in Boston, Adam and his new wife head west to the Ponderosa for a visit, hoping to relax where they feel safe. Unfortunately Little Joe is not happy with their presence. Hoss helps sort things out\u00a0between his\u00a0brothers, but\u00a0when one problem is solved, the Cartwrights \u201cwelcome\u201d\u2026","rel":"","context":"In "Adam Cartwright"","block_context":{"text":"Adam Cartwright","link":"https:\/\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/?cat=1005"},"img":{"alt_text":"","src":"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/wp-content\/uploads\/2014\/05\/Adams-English-Scenic2.jpg?fit=450%2C436&ssl=1&resize=350%2C200","width":350,"height":200},"classes":[]}],"jetpack_sharing_enabled":true,"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/posts\/6491","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/users\/82"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Fcomments&post=6491"}],"version-history":[{"count":0,"href":"https:\/\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/posts\/6491\/revisions"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/media\/5758"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Fmedia&parent=6491"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Fcategories&post=6491"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Ftags&post=6491"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}