The Continuance

Part 2

Adam was up early the following morning, knowing he was going to have to meet the stage his father and soon to be stepmother were on.

The night before had been quiet, Adam not even trying to come up with something to say to ease his siblings tension. After all, he was having the same misgivings as they.

He was at a complete loss and had nothing to say regarding the woman. After all, what could he say? It wasn't like he knew anything about her or what kind of mother she would make to his siblings.

Breakfast was just as quiet, and neither were very interested in eating. In fact, after just a few minutes of sitting at the table, the five gave up all together of trying to stomach anything and decided to head out for chores.

Adam didn't have many left after getting up so early. And after checking his pocket watch for about the tenth time in the past hour he hitched up the buckboard and called out.

"I'm going to go get Pa," he said before reminding them not to leave the ranch yard.

Adam stood on the street next to the buckboard, nervously awaiting the arrival of the usual late stagecoach.

Just as he decided to go across the street and over to the general store, he heard a team of fast approaching horses, causing him to put his plans on hold.

The stage pulled up a few feet away from the buckboard and just as Adam reached it a woman, who appeared to be the same age as his father stepped down, after a little assistance from himself. She was of medium built and had dark brown hair, pinned up in a bun atop her head. Her head was down and hadn't gotten much of an opportunity to see her face, at least not until she looked up.

"Thank you byoung man," she made eye contact with him.

"Yes Mam," he tipped his hat before preparing to help the next passenger down.

At least until he realized it was his father.

"Pa," he took the small satchel from him.

"Good to see you son," Ben shook his hand warmly.

"Any other passengers?" Adam knew it wasn't like his father to step out before the ladies did. But he also knew the stage normally carried more than two passengers at a time.

"That's it," he said before turning to the woman who his son helped down just moments ago.

"Rachel, this is my son Adam."

"It's so good to finally meet you Adam, your fathers told me a lot about you."

"Yes Mam," Adam didn't really want to reply, but he promised his father to give her a chance and knew he didn't have a choice.

"How are the kids?" Ben asked as he helped Rachel into the second seat of the buckboard.

"There all still alive and the house is still standing," Adam replied with the only way he knew how. "At least it was when I left." He said as he handed the reigns to his father from where he sat on the front bench.

"You drive," Ben declined. "I'm going to sit back and enjoy a few minutes more with my fiancé before I have to get back to being a parent and running a ranch."

"Yes Sir," Adam couldn't help but smirk at his fathers comment, thinking he had no idea how accurate he was being.

Adam remained silent throughout the ride, Ben taking the time to point a few things out during their journey.

"Adam," Rachel spoke up, trying to get him involved in the conversation.

"Your Pa tells me you play the guitar."

"Yes Mam," Adam nodded.

"I play the piano. Maybe we can play together sometime," she suggested.

"We don't have a piano," Adam wasn't sure if he should say but he figured she would find out sooner than later.

"Maybe we can get one," Ben spoke up.

"Oh Ben, don't do it on my account."

"It wouldn't hurt to have one about the place. Perhaps the children would take an interest in it."

"What do you think Adam?" Rachel obviously wanted to keep him in the conversation.

"Not sure Mam," Adam said truthfully. "Kate might but I wouldn't expect much from Lou Anne."

"And you?"

"I don't think so," Adam said in all honesty. "I barely have enough time to spend with my guitar. Don't think I better pick up anything new right now."

"What all do you do at the ranch?"

"Whew," Adam let out a sigh, trying to determine just where to start.

"Everything," Ben was the one to answer. "The ranch wouldn't be where it is now without him."

Adam was glad he was the only one sitting on the front bench and able to allow his grin to spread freely over his fathers statement of being proud of him.

"Speaking of the ranch," Adam recalled, saying aloud, predominantly to his father.

"I thought you were going to be gone longer. Why are you home so soon?"

"Thought I should get back," Ben shrugged.

"You were worried," Adam interpreted.

"I can't help it," Ben knew there was no use in pretending any longer. "I'm the father, I'm supposed to worry about my children. And before you say anything, it's not because I don't trust you," he covered.

"Pa," Adam started to say.

"I know what your thinking son," Ben held up a hand. "But get used to it. No matter how old you get you'll always be thought of as my little boy." He clasped a hand on his sons shoulder.

Adam reddened and ducked his head, embarrassed that Rachel was there.

"Now pay attention where your driving boy," Ben smirked as he settled back down in his seat.

Adam didn't say anything but he couldn't help but shake his head as he clucked his tongue to the horses to walk on as he thought on what his father had just said. One minute he was his responsible son left to care for the ranch and his children and the next he was his little boy. I don't get it, he shrugged to himself.

The rest of the ride home, the conversation was centered strictly between fiances. Adam doing his best to stay out of it as long as Rachel didn't try pulling him in again.

He knew he couldn't be rude, but he had no desire to take part at the moment. At least not until he knew a little more about the woman that was to become part of the family.

XXXXXXXX

There wasn't a Cartwright in the yard when they pulled in with the buckboard and it was obvious Ben found it odd that his children weren't there to greet them.

"I wonder where they could be?" He voiced his confusion before glancing at Adam, wondering if he had an answer to his question.

"I told them not to leave the yard," Adam shrugged, taking luggage down.

"Kate! Lou Anne!" Ben called for his daughters.

"Pa!" Lou Anne charged him. "You're home! You're home! You're home!" She said jumping up and down before he finally picked her up.

"You didn't miss me did you?" He teased.

"Maybe just a little," she hugged him tightly.

"What about you three?" He looked over at Kate, Hoss and Joe who were just coming over from the barn.

"Sure Pa," Hoss smiled. "Course we did."

"Rachel," Ben started with the boys. "These are my sons Hoss and Little Joe," he pointed the two out.

"That's just Joe Mam," Joe corrected.

Ben didn't say anything, but he did place a firm hand on his sons shoulder. Knowing that Joe reacted that way because he preferred for no one outside the family to call him Little Joe.

"And who are these two beautiful little ladies?" Rachel didn't completely understand the reaction between father and son so she moved on to the other two children. Not wanting one of them to get in trouble after her first few minutes of arrival.

Kate and Lou Anne weren't about to open their mouths, leaving it to Ben to continue with the introductions.

"This is Kate," Ben pointed her out before moving on to Lou Anne.

"Oh Ben," she smiled sweetly. "They are beautiful!"

"They take after their mother," he said proudly.

"And Hoss, you are just as your father described," she shook the young mans hand warmly. "I feel as if I would have known you anywhere."

Hoss gave her a small grin but it wasn't hard to tell that he liked how warm and friendly she was.

"We're hungry Pa," Lou Anne complained. "Can we go into town and get something to eat?"

"I just got home," Ben looked at her surprised.

"You can go back," she smiled.

"Not today," he set her down.

"Pa," Adam spoke up, figuring now was as good a time as any to tell him about their faithful cook. "Hop Sing had to go to San Francisco to take care of his cousin."

"We saw him," Ben assured him that all was fine before turning to Hoss and Joe.

"Carry Rachel's luggage into her room. Kate, help Miss Madden unpack. The three started to do his bidding but was stopped when Rachel spoke.

"I can unpack later," she volunteered. "It's close to dinner and I'm sure these children are hungry." She noticed Hoss brighten when she mentioned dinner.

"Not today sweetheart," Ben shook his head just as Hoss's expression dropped.

"It's been a long trip and you should rest."

"Ben," Rachel tried to get him to reconsider.

"I'll take care of the cooking tonight. But tomorrow's another day," he promised her.

"Prepare yourself for biscuits as heavy as logs," Adam warned Rachel as he picked up two of her cases while Hoss and Joe followed suit with the rest.

"They've gotten better," Ben tried picking up for himself. Unfortunately he was rewarded with unbelieving looks from the rest of his children.

XXXXXXXX

After leading Rachel into the house and showing her around her new home, Ben insisted his eldest daughter help Rachel settle in and unpack while he worked in the kitchen on dinner.

Kate wasn't happy with her current plight and hated what her father wanted her to do. Why couldn't this woman take care of herself? Unpacking isn't all that hard.

She stood near the window, her arms crossed over her chest, impatiently waiting to free herself from the house and away from this woman.

"Kate," Rachel said, getting the girls attention.

Kate turned but didn't speak. At least not yet anyways.

"Would you set this over by the wash basin, please?" She asked handing her her silver plated brush and mirror.

"What's the point," she grumbled. "Your not going to be here long enough."

"I know I'm going to be moving upstairs soon, but I thought I might as well get out the things I use daily," she reasoned.

"Whatever," she hatefully jerked the items from the woman's hand and plopped them onto the stand.

"Please be a little more careful," Rachel said gently, not sure if she should say anything or not. "My mother gave those to me and her mother before her and they are very special to me."

"Why'd you bring them all the way out here then?"

"Like I said, they are very special to me."

"Well the Wild West is very unpredictable," Kate mentioned before picking up the sacred items and turning them around in her hand.

Rachel's expression showing she held a lump in throat, obviously worried about what the girl planned to do.

"Please set it down," she managed to squeak out.

Kate hesitated, knowing she held every minute in her hand, taking one last look at the woman's face she he dropped the brush to the floor.

Rachel gulped and hurried over to the floor, relieved it was in one piece, she clutched it to her chest.

After taking a deep breath, Rachel stood, content to let the incident go, knowing she couldn't expect the transition to be a bed of roses.

"Would you ask your brothers to bring the tub in? I'm covered with an inch thick of dirt from the trip."

"Ask them yourself," Kate blurted. "But don't be surprised if they turn you down. We don't have to do what you say, your not married to Pa yet. And even when you are, you still won't be our mother."

Unfortunately for Kate, her timing was a little off and her father heard every word and it was evident she was in trouble by the firm grip on her arm.

"Katherine Marie Cartwright," Ben wasn't sure how he did it, but he managed to keep his tone in check. "Apologize now."

Kate was seething and just by her breathing and stance, Ben could tell she was going to refuse.

"Go to your room now," he ordered.

Kate was glad for the escape as she ran up to her room even though she knew she was in trouble and embarrassed by the fact that that new woman knew it.

Ben started off after her but was stopped by his fiancé.

"Leave her be Ben."

"After what she did?" Ben looked shocked that she would even suggest it. "She dropped your brush intentionally and not only that she was very disrespectful and that is something each of my children know better than to do."

"What do you expect? She doesn't know me."

"Doesn't matter," Ben shook his head. "Your her elder and you did nothing to deserve that response."

"Ben," Rachel tried again.

"I won't deal with her till I calm down," he promised. "But she knows what disrespect will get her and I'm not one to go back on my word."

Rachel knew she lost the battle and despite she only knew her fiancé a short time she knew he was a man of his word and he was very proud yet strict with his children.

"I'll send Hoss and Joe in with the tub and tell them Adam to start heating some water."

"Thank you," she couldn't help but feel guilty over Kate's coming discipline and it was showing in her voice.

"It's not your fault," Ben said as if he could read her thoughts. "And she'll be in to apologize."

"Don't make her do something she doesn't want to do," she placed a hand on his arm.

"She won't like it," Ben admitted. "But she's a Cartwright and it will not go without saying." He headed for the door to find his sons before heading upstairs to deal with his ill-mannered daughter.

"Kate," Ben didn't even bother to knock before walking into his daughters room.

Kate jumped to her feet the second her father entered her room, knowing this sign of respect was expected when he entered.

"Pleased to see you haven't completely lost all since of respect."

Kate didn't respond and kept her head down.

"Well what do you have to say for yourself?" He crossed his arms in front of his chest.

Again Kate didn't respond and her insolent attitude was getting very close to hitting his last nerve.

"I asked you a question Katherine and I expect an answer."

Kate shuddered when he repeated her real name, knowing that was never a good sign. At least if she wanted to survive.

"I don't like her," Kate said angrily.

"You don't even know her."

Kate started to speak but Ben held up a hand to silence her.

"What was the one thing I asked each of you to do when Rachel came?"

Kate relayed the conversation from days ago but slowly gave him an answer, knowing he wouldn't like for her to draw it out. Especially considering she was in enough trouble.

"Give her a chance," again Kate's head dropped when she spoke. Knowing there was no way she was going to get out of this without some serious repercussions.

"Look at me Kate," Ben said sternly yet his touch was gentle as he placed two fingers under her chin to draw her head up so he could look her in the eye.

"I also remember warning you about being disrespectful and warning you about what would happen if you didn't heed my warning. Do you remember?"

"Yes Sir," she responded regretfully.

"I don't want to do this," Ben dropped his hands down to his waist where he started to unbuckle his belt. "But you did wrong and you know I'm a man of my word."

Kate nodded in understanding before regretfully awaiting her impending doom.

XXXXXXXX

"Here's the water?" Adam said coming into the room with the first two buckets of warmed water.

"Still waiting for the tub," Rachel gestured around the room to show that it was nowhere in sight.

"Where are those two?" He said to himself. Knowing the tub should have been in the room long before he had the water heated to the right temperature.

The two stood awkwardly in the room, both gaining a sense of nervousness while the silence surrounded them.

Rachel tried to break it by offering a small smile and Adam cleared his throat.

"Do you know where Pa is? I thought he was going to start dinner."

"Upstairs," Rachel's tone and expression changed the instant she said it. "With your sister."

Adam didn't say anything, but he couldn't help but let out a small moan.

"I tried to change his mind."

Adam scoffed before turning his attention back to Rachel. "No one changes Pa's mind."

"But whatever he gives her, you can be assured she deserves it," Adam spoke from past experience. "And he'll listen and explain why she's in trouble."

"He is a good man," she knew the man she agreed to marry and she not only admired him for being a single father so many years but for also the kind of man he was towards his children. Sure she hadn't been there for long, but she knew he loved them with every fiber of his being but he also expected a great deal from them. And by what she experienced, they never had a problem measuring up to his expectations.

"If you don't mind me asking," Adam knew it was none of his business. Especially considering his father never spoke of one of his children's misgivings with one of their siblings. Then again, he figured it was a safe enough bet to ask considering Rachel didn't know the rules. "What did she do?"

"Your father doesn't take to disrespect does he?" She answered his question with one of her own.

"Not from one of his children," Adam then knew that his sister wasn't going to come back downstairs with just a list of extra chores. She broke one of Ben Cartwright's 3 D's, and those included disrespect, disobedience and dishonesty and any one of those would get you a tanning.

"Didn't think so," she shook her head.

"Is there anything else you need other than more water?" Adam was in a hurry to make an escape.

"No, thank you," she started to unpack a clean dress and things alike for after her bath.

"Here's the tub Miss Madden," Joe said as he and Hoss came into the room carrying the tub.

"Thank you boys. You can set it over there," she pointed to a corner of the room.

"Yes Mam," Hoss nodded.

"What took you two so long?" Adam started to fill the tub with the first two buckets.

"Little brother here wouldn't hold his end up," Hoss teased him.

"It's not my fault your bigger than me," Joe tried picking up for himself.

"No," Hoss corrected him. "You just don't have any muscles because you hardly do any work around here." Hoss kept up the banter.

Joe started to argue but was interrupted by his eldest brother.

"Miss Madden doesn't want to listen to your bickering," Adam intervened. "Get out of here and bring some wood in for the fire."

"Adam," Joe started to protest. "Pa's home and you can't tell me what to do no more."

Adam refrained from correcting the boys grammar and instead decided on a word of warning.

"Would you like me to go get Pa?" He said sarcastically.

"Yes," Joe crossed his arms in front of his chest defiantly. "I'm launching a formal protest."

"You don't even know what that is," Hoss laughed at his brothers use of words.

"Do you know where Pa is?" Adam continued, not even bothering to take his eyes off Joe when Hoss spoke.

"No."

"He's upstairs with Kate. Now if you still want to argue with me, I can tell him," Adam started to say but was cut off.

"I'm going to go get that wood now," Joe was suddenly in a hurry to do his brothers bidding and finish up his chores.

"I'll be back with more water," Adam looked back at Rachel before picking up the buckets and handing one over to Hoss.

"Sure don't envy Kate right now," Hoss said as he and Adam waited for the water to warm on the stove.

"Me neither little brother, me neither."

XXXXXXXX

A short time later, and Ben sullenly made his way into the kitchen. He was never happy when he had to punish one of his children and this time was no different. Splashing some water on his face and acting as if he could rub the frustration and hurt away Ben scrubbed his face with his hands. Taking a deep breath, Ben wiped the rest of the water away with a tool and began another job he dreaded, cooking.

Lou Anne was quiet as she set the table with the dinner dishes. She was out of practice for setting it for more than six and she found herself returning to the kitchen for an extra glass, saucer, plate and silverware. She normally set the table much louder, not bothering if she dropped the plates or silverware to the table which was something she was reminded not to do countless times. She thought it was funny that the only reason she remembered now was because she was waiting for the inevitable crashing sound. Surprised that the woman had yet to lie down.

Interrupting her thoughts was Little Joe when he came in, his arms overloaded with a stack of freshly chopped wood.

"Is this enough wood for you oh bossy one?" Joe looked at Adam sarcastically after filling the wood bin near the fireplace to the absolute brim.

"For now," Adam nodded. "But don't forget the wood for the stove in the kitchen," he smirked, obviously pleased with his form of torture he could inflict on the youngest boy.

"Don't you have better things to do than bother me?" Joe tossed one of the small throw pillows that Rachel had added to the sofa at his brother.

"Not at the moment," Adam threw it back playfully.

Interrupting the gesture, was Hoss when he came in closing the front door roughly behind him.

"Adam are you coming to help me?"

"Since when do you need help?" Adam teased him.

"Just come on, I don't want to be out here all night."

Interrupting their trek to the door was a curdling scream from the bedroom bringing Ben in from the kitchen followed closely by Adam, Hoss and Little Joe. Lou Anne, who had been waiting impatiently for just that, took a second to peer inside standing on her tiptoes to see around Little Joe. She knew she couldn't hang around, she was too tempted to burst into a fit of laughter at the sight of the woman sitting in the middle of the mattress that was now sitting on the floor atop pieces of board, rope and blankets. She had just made her escape when Ben hurried into the room to help her up and to make sure she was okay.

Satisfied that the only thing bruised was her pride, Ben glared from one son to the other holding the severed rope as evidence to prove that the incident was not an accident.

"Which one of you took care of the bed?"

Hoss's mouth dropped when he realized what happened and he reluctantly replied.

"I did Pa," his eyes suddenly found the floor pattern rather interesting.

"Eric Benjamin Cartwright!" Ben raised his voice.

"Pa, I," Hoss tried to explain that he had no idea how it happened.

"Are you back talking to me boy?"

"No Sir," Hoss gave up, not wanting to dig himself deeper. Knowing he was in more trouble than he had ever been in in his life and he didn't even do it. At least he didn't think so.

"Get upstairs," Ben nodded for the stairs.

Hoss started to moan, but one slight glance from his father shut him up.

"Adam fix the bed. Joe help your brother," he ordered starting for the stairs. "Oh and Adam, tell Kate I told her to come get started on dinner." He added without even bothering to turn around to see if he was listening.

Joe had just moved the straw tick mattress asked when Adam knelt to observe the rest of the severed ropes.

"What's wrong?" Joe noticed Adam didn't budge when he picked up one of the ropes.

"These look to have been sawn almost in two," Adam observed, holding them out for Joe to take a look for himself. "Rather than one clean swipe."

"Hoss wouldn't do that," Joe obviously agreed with his brothers intuition. "He's strong enough and his blade is sharp enough to cut rope without much effort." Joe remembered the special care Hoss took with tools.

"That's what I'm trying to figure?" Adam rubbed his thumb over the rope.

"Are you going to tell Pa? He needs to know."

"I know, but it's too late to save Hoss now."

"Guess so," Joe stood, figuring there was nothing else to do but make the repairs.

"Keep this to yourself before I figure out what to do."

"Right," Joe agreed.

"Go out the barn and get some more rope," Adam wrapped the rope around his hand. "I'm going to go get Kate."

XXXXXXXX

"Hey little sister," Adam walked in after making a short rasp on her bedroom door.

"What do you want?" Kate turned her tear stained face away from him from where she was lying on her stomach.

"Pa really gave it to you didn't he?" Adam took a seat on the edge of her bed.

"What do you think?" She sat up, wincing when her bottom touched the bed.

"I tried to warn you," he couldn't help but smirk. But his tone did sound apologetic.

"Anyways, Pa sent me up here to tell you to get started on supper."

"I thought he was going to do it tonight?" Kate looked at him confused.

"My guess is he'll be down later," Adam nodded. "Said he had to talk to Hoss."

"Is Hoss in trouble?"

"I'm sure he's getting more than a lecture," Adam admitted before taking the rope from his pocket. "Pa thinks he cut the ropes to Rachel's bed."

"Did it break with Rachel on it?" Kate's eyes were wide, a hint of a smile spreading across her face.

"You didn't do it did you?" Sure Adam didn't think it was something Kate would do, but that didn't keep him from questioning her about it.

"No," Kate shook her head. "Wish I would have thought of it though," she couldn't help but admit.

Adam didn't say anything, but he did give her a questioning look.

"Didn't you learn anything from the trip you just took up here with Pa?"

"Mmhmm," Kate nodded. "I learned to be extra careful with what I say when Pa's around."

"You don't think you should just watch what you say regardless if he's around or not?"

"Oh come on Adam, don't tell me you actually like the woman?" Kate stood crossing her bedroom.

"She's not that bad," Adam crossed his arms in front of his chest. "She could be a lot worse after all."

"I hope not to spend enough time with her to find out," Kate gestured his pose.

Adam took a deep breath, before exhaling and turning to face her with a serious expression.

"I was hoping you were going to be a lot smarter than I was when Marie came. But I guess it's plain to see that isn't going to happen. Now come on, you need to get dinner started and I need to help Joe fix the bed."

By the time Adam reached the bottom floor, Joe was ready and waiting with new rope.

"You couldn't fix it yourself?"

"Pa told you to do it," Joe smirked. "I'm just supposed to help."

"Come on," Adam grabbed him by the arm before hauling him into the bedroom.

XXXXXXXX

Rachel could tell Adam and Joe weren't very comfortable working in the room while she was in there and after what happened with Kate she didn't think she should join her and Ben in the kitchen. She didn't want to appear as if she was being nosy, but considering it was going to be her home she figured there was nothing wrong in getting to know her surroundings so she could learn how she was going to be living.

She skimmed through the books on the bookcase near Bens desk and even though she didn't feel like reading she took one from the case and sifted through it. Returning it to its case, Rachel crossed over to the fireplace. After adding an additional log to the burning embers she straightened the pillows she left on the furniture before making plans on how she could decorate for the wedding ceremony.

Content the bed was fixed properly and everything was back in place Adam and Joe hurriedly left the room, feeling very uncomfortable now that it occupied their fathers future wife. Joe could smell something burning from the kitchen and he decided to go in and tease his father and sister regarding the unpleasant aroma and wonder if they needed a bucket of water to douse any flames.

With Joe gone and Rachel deep in thought as she surveyed the room Adam decided it was perfect time to talk to Hoss and reveal his suspicions regarding the incident with the bed.

"Hoss," Adam made a quick rasp on the door before walking in.

"What do you want Adam?" Hoss turned away from the window he was starring out of.

"I know you got a tanning."

"No news there," Hoss scoffed. "We all knew it was going to happen. But for the life of me," he hesitated thinking. "I can't figure out how it happened."

"Did you tell Pa that?"

"No point," he shrugged. "I figured I did something wrong and deserved punishment."

"I know you didn't do anything," Adam placed a hand on his brothers shoulder.

"How?" Hoss was trying to figure out how his brother knew when he wasn't even there when he supposedly fixed the bed.

Adam pulled a piece of the frazzled rope from his pocket.

"How?" Hoss took it, his mouth ajar.

"It's been cut," Adam revealed his suspicion.

"But who?"

"My bet is Lou Anne."

"But why?"

"I don't know," Adam shook his head. "But," he started to say.

"Don't tell Pa," Hoss interrupted.

"He needs to know Hoss

"It's over and done with Adam, let it be."

"This isn't right Hoss."

"Right or not, I don't want to see Lou Anne get in trouble for something Pa's thinks is over and has already dealt with. And if she promises not to do anything like this again I won't be mad."

"Okay," Adam gave in, knowing if the roles were in reverse, he would do the same thing.

"But I'm beginning to wish I never messed with that bed in the first place," he sighed, plopping down onto the bed.

"The things we do for those kids to keep them out of the line of fire with Pa," Adam took a seat next to him.

"Yep," Hoss agreed.

"Sometimes I wish I had an older sibling to keep me out of trouble.

"Guess your stuck with the job," Hoss ribbed him playfully.

"Come on," Adam laughed. "We need to get started on chores."

"Can't," Hoss looked at him regretfully. "Pa said I have to stay up here till dinner."

"You let me handle Pa," Adam sounded as if he had everything under control. "I'll tell him I need help with something."

"What do you need help with?" Hoss sounded surprised.

"Threaten our baby sister," he winked at his brother.

XXXXXXXX

The last thing Ben wanted was a silent dinner, but after having to discipline two of his children on his first night back he figured he shouldn't expect much. Especially considering neither of them were exactly jumping for joy at his announcement of bringing home a fiancée.

He hated anytime he had to punish one of his children, but after the behavior he witnessed, he knew he didn't have a choice.

In fact, what he really wanted was to spend an evening by the fireplace. He missed the children while he was away. Plus, it would give them and Rachel the opportunity to get to know one another a bit better.

But he didn't think that was likely to happen. Then again, he figured he could always make it a request they couldn't refuse. But he would worry about that later, right now they had to get through dinner. Which he had no doubt would be a silent affair. Then again, he'd been wrong before. And by the time dinner was over, Ben had a strange feeling he wished it wouldn't have been one compared to the trip down memory lane.

"Time to eat," he announced carrying the last platter to the table. Ben wasn't very good at cooking much of anything, but he was best at breakfast and since he wanted Rachel's first meal with the family to be somewhat decent and edible that was exactly what he made.

Rachel was the first to join him at the table but she didn't dare take a seat to afraid she would take one that was usually occupied by one of the children. Ben took his seat at the head of the table but Rachel stood back. Ben had a feeling he knew what she was thinking and he returned to his feet before crossing to the opposite end of the table and pulled the chair out for her.

Adam soon took his usual place at the right of his father and Hoss to the left of his father. Kate took her place next to Adam and Lou Anne next to Hoss with Joe next to her.

The meal wasn't exactly the way Ben wanted it, then again he did have a lot on his mind and food wasn't one of them. The bacon was a little crispier than he'd have like but at least it wasn't scorched. At least he didn't think so. The eggs on the other one were the exact opposite they were runny and they found themselves having to soak it up with the biscuits Kate made.

"Kate, I think these are the best biscuits you've ever made," Hoss said in between bites. Just before reaching across the table for another.

"Stop reaching in front of my plate you big buffoon," Lou Anne shoved his arm back nearly knocking the pitcher of milk over.

"Lou Anne," Ben corrected.

"Sorry Pa," Lou Anne apologized.

"Do you remember when Hop Sing got sick last year and Pa had to do the cooking?" Adam didn't say to anyone in particular.

Kate laughed out loud just thinking about it and Adam continued.

"And Hop Sing kept trying to get up because he didn't like Pa in his kitchen."

"That's not the reason," Ben started to protest.

"Pa?" Adam looked at him questioningly. "That was the whole reason he asked you to make helping out in the kitchen part of an occasional chore for Kate. So he could teach her how to cook in case he got sick again."

"That isn't true," Ben tried to pick for himself. "I cooked for us on our trip west remember?" He wasn't exactly sure if he should expect him to remember considering he was so young at the time but he had to do something to try and redeem himself.

"Trail cooking is different than kitchen cooking," Adam reminded him. "Although," he started to say before pausing. A smile started to spread across his face when he looked at Ben.

"I don't remember where we were but I had grown tired of the day in and day out travel. I changed it up a few times, riding in the wagon and walking alongside at others. There weren't a lot of children on the trail and with Hoss just a baby I was still basically alone. Pa knew I was getting tired and even though we still had a couple hours of light left he decided to stop for the night. We camped near a lake and went fishing."

"I remember that," Ben said with a smile. "We caught enough fish for two meals that night."

"And it turned out great."

"Good enough for you to request it when we go down to the lake every summer," Ben winked at him.

"Sounds like you two had quite the adventure coming west," Rachel tried to take part in some part of the dinner table conversation.

"Saw a lot of beautiful country," Ben agreed.

"We're Joe, Kate and Lou Anne born here?"

"On the ranch yes," Ben nodded. "But we didn't build this house until Kate was born."

"It's a beautiful house," Rachel complimented.

"It's been a great help," Ben said his eyes wide. "We were stepping on each other in the old house. Led to many arguments," he gestured at Adam and Hoss.

"It wasn't easy sharing a room with someone who wanted to stay up all night reading," Hoss tried to pick up for himself.

"Oh yeah, at least I didn't keep the whole house up with my snoring," Adam scoffed.

"Ugh Ben," Rachel looked at Ben concerned. "How far is our bedroom away from his again?" Worried that once they were married she was going to be kept up all night by her stepsons snores.

"I never hear a thing," Ben laughed.

"This isn't fair Pa, everybody's picking on me," Hoss complained.

"No we're not Hoss," Joe teased. "Your just so gullible."

They were close to the end of dinner and Ben could tell it was only a matter of time before they requested permission to be excused.

"I want everyone to pitch in with the clean up so we can get it done and you can join me in the living room before bed."

"But I wanted to go up to my room and read," Kate complained.

"You can read down here," Ben stood before stacking the dinner plates. "But I've been away and I want to spend time with my family. Now is that too much to ask?" He stopped just behind her chair.

"No Pa," she lifted her head all the way up. "I missed you too."

XXXXXXXX

A few minutes later and the Cartwright family settled around the fireplace.

Rachel looked around the room wondering in her eyes. They were all so reserved now

that no one was saying much and she had a feeling it was because she was there.

Adam was standing near the hearth leaning against the stone while he stared into the fire. His guitar was leaning near him, but he didn't really feel like playing tonight.

Kate was nearby pretending to read but the more Rachel observed she realized she hadn't turned a page in several minutes.

Lou Anne was planted on her fathers lap completely monopolizing him wanting to get every inch of his attention.

Joe managed to rope Hoss into a game of checkers but neither of their minds were especially on the game. Most of the time losing track on who's turn it was.

She was enthralled with the family around her. She knew they hadn't had the best of days, their behavior causing either a reprimand or punishment from their father they still enjoyed spending time with him. There was something different about this family, it was different than the one she grew up in. There was love and she felt relieved she was going to be apart of it.

"Hoss," Ben spoke up.

"Yeah Pa?" Hoss turned his attention to his father.

"I have a small carpet bag in my room. Go get it for me please."

"Yes Sir," Hoss was up the stairs in a matter of seconds.

Hoss looked around his fathers looking around for the satchel. There were two bags in the room, one open and on the bed and another small one on dresser.

Taking the small one from the dresser Hoss returned and handed the bag to his father.

"I picked up a few things in San Francisco for you," he announced, causing each of his children to give him their full attention.

"You did bring us something!" Loun Anne jumped up and down on his lap excitedly.

"Lou Anne," Ben sucked in a breath.

"Sorry Pa," but the smile and excitement to leave her face.

Even Adam and Hoss couldn't help but come closer, always enjoying when he brought them something back from one of his trips.

"Lou Anne," Ben always started with the youngest. Knowing she would be the least likely to hold in her exuberance.

Lou Anne's smile brightened when Ben took out a new doll with a bright red dress.

"Thanks Pa," Lou Anne rushed into his open arms for a hug.

"Kate," he turned his attention to his eldest daughter.

Kate straightened, wondering if the trouble she got into earlier was going to make him skip her entirely.

To her surprise, he pulled out a hard covered book with a the words "Oliver Twist" inscribed on the front.

"Pa," Kate looked up at him bewildered. "How'd you know I wanted this book?"

"What kind of father would I be if I didn't know my children?" He said with a smile.

"Thanks Pa," she hugged him before stepping aside so he could move on to Joe.

"Joe," he dug out a satin filled bag with marbles.

"Pa," Joe opened the bag and poured a few of the glass marbles into his hand. There were a few solid colored marbles along with a few clear ones with hints of blue and green specks inside. He had only always had an old set of Hoss's to take to school to play with the other boys and these he was sure we're better than all the other kids.

"Your welcome Little Joe," Ben accepted a hug from the excited boy who soon after was spreading himself on the floor where he played a game against himself.

"Hoss," he looked at the son that was so different than that of his other children. Different in not only size but also in disposition.

"Thought this might look good on you," he took out a new hat. One that was tan in color and the size of 10 gallon.

"Pa," Hoss grinned before plucking the hat onto his head.

"Uh oh," Lou Anne didn't miss the expression on her middle brothers face. "He's liable to sleep in the hat for a week."

"No I won't," Hoss took the hat off so he could run the brim through his fingers.

"Adam," Ben could tell the boy was trying to hide his smile, wanting to appear as if he didn't expect anything. But the shining in his eyes gave it away.

Taking out the last of his purchases, Ben handed him a leather bound book with the script "Wreck of the Pacific," inscribed in wide gold lettering across the front.

"Thanks Pa," Adam could no longer hide the smile.

"You are all welcome," he set the now empty carpet bag aside.

Lou Anne quick to reclaim her place in his lap while she held her doll close to her chest.

Ben was surprised when his eldest son didn't claim the red velvet chair like he did when he got a new book and wanted to settle down comfortably to knock out a few chapters. And he was more surprised by what he said when he spoke.

"Let's go to bed," Adam looked around the room at his siblings. Offering a gift of his own to his father. It was the gift of solitude or at least a gift of quiet that he could spend with his fiancé.

Hoss and Kate looked at their brother confused, but understood his reasoning and reluctantly followed his instructions. Joe and Lou Anne on the other hand weren't nearly as interested.

"I want to stay with Pa," Lou Anne didn't show any signs of climbing off her fathers lap.

"I'll still be here tomorrow," Ben hugged her tightly, his whiskers scratching his face.

Lou Anne giggled but stayed planted on his lap.

"Pa's home now," Joe wasn't quite ready to give in to his brothers request either. "You can't tell us what to do no more."

"It's anymore," Adam corrected his grammar. "And I'm still your big brother now go."

"Pa?" Joe looked at Ben hopeful.

"Go on Little Joe," Ben nodded. "It's getting late and there will be plenty to do tomorrow."

"Yes Pa," Joe gave in. "Goodnight."

"Goodnight son," Ben reached out to ruffle the boys hair.

"As for you little missy," Ben turned his attention back to his daughter.

"Mind your big brother," he said before handing her over to Adam."

"One of these days I'm going to grow up and you won't be able to manhandle me," she stuck her tongue out at her brother.

"I'm still going to be your big brother," he reminded her the same as he did Joe before tossing her over his shoulder and heading for the stairs.

"Thanks son," Ben knew his eldest son gathered the rest of the children together so he and Rachel could spend some time alone.

"Don't get used to it," Adam grinned turning back to his father. "I'm not accustomed to going to bed with the others."

"Goodnight Adam."

"He sure told you," Lou Anne teased, still draped over her brothers shoulder.

"Who asked you," Adam landed a swat to her backside.

"You have some wonderful children," Rachel said once they were alone. "And it's obvious they adore you."

"They'll do," Ben smiled.

The room fell silent for several minutes Ben recurring the day's events.

"I know they apologized," he still felt bad at the welcome she received. "But I to am sorry for Kate and Hoss's behavior."

"Don't worry," Rachel shook her head. "I never expected it to be a bed of roses. They are kids after all. I just wished they liked me a little more."

"They don't know you."

"How are they supposed to get to know me unless they talk with me?" Rachel hesitated before she said anything but if she couldn't open up to her fiancé who could she open up to?

"They will in time," he promised. "Just remember some of them don't say very much. Like Adam and Kate unless they have something smart to say like Kate let escape today.

"Adam talked to you," she reminded him.

"He and I are also relatively close. He knows me, we spent a lot of time traveling together when it was just the two of us and then after Inger died and we continued or journey Hoss was just a baby and I depended on him quite a bit. Always have, he put a lot of work into this place the same as I. He trusts me."

"And he doesn't me," she sighed.

"Not yet," he shook his head. "But he will. They all will."

"I hope to reach them soon," Rachel was showing signs of not willing to back up or give in till she did just that.

"Just promise me one thing," she looked at him hopeful.

"What's that?" He wondered where in the conversation would bring up a reason for him to promise her anything.

"Let me reach them on my own."

Ben started to interrupt but Rachel stopped him.

"Without any interference from you. If the relationship isn't forced it will be better for each of us all the way around.

Ben sighed but eventually gave in.

"As long as they toe the line I won't interfere. But as long as they act like Kate did today than I'll have to. They know I don't tolerate disrespect."

"Thank you," she looked at him intently.

"I still can't figure out what got into Hoss though," Ben appeared to be deep in thought over it. "His behavior was quite out of the ordinary."

"And Kate?" It was obvious she still wasn't happy with her arrival and Rachel knew it.

"She'll be alright," Ben assured her. "It's just going to take time for her to adjust. Adam did the same way thing with Marie and she's just like Adam. I expected resistance."

"What do you mean?

"The way I see it or the way I did see it before Hoss confused me," Ben admitted before continuing with his explanation of each of his children's strategic behavior.

"Adam and Kate would be cool and reserved. They are both very stubborn and have a smart mouth that I have to spend most of my time watching. Adams managed to learn how to control his for the most part but Kate is another story. I expected her to appear defiant and would most likely let her mouth run away with her."

"But if you expected it, then why did you react the way you did?"

"Because it was wrong and she knows better." He made it sound so simple.

"What about the others?"

"I expected Hoss to be friendly and accepting. He's like that with everyone."

"Not everyone is coming in to be his stepmother," Rachel tried to interpret the reasoning behind his actions.

"Joe and Lou Anne have a wild streak a mile long and both have a temper. And like Kate they have never had a stepmother before, and I have to say I'm surprised they have appeared so mellow."

Rachel didn't respond her mind deep in thought, she had been hoping since the beginning that she would be able to form a bond with her future stepchildren. But after the cold reception she received from almost each of them it was obvious she had her work cut out for her.

"Where are you going?" She asked when he stood and started for the stairs.

"I'll be back," Ben promised. "I just want to check on the children. Make sure they are in bed and not giving Adam trouble."

"Joe and Lou Anne didn't sound happy did they?" She smiled, remembering their reactions.

"They hate early bedtimes. It's usually used as a punishment unless I just need time alone."

"I'll be waiting," she gave him a mischievous smile before blowing him a kiss.

XXXXXXXX

Starting at the end of the hall was his eldest sons room. He was surprised to find Adam asleep. Then again, he had a feeling the past week while he was away had been exceptionally hard on him. The lamplight shined from the nightstand and he lifted the book from his chest before turning the lamp down and moving on to Hoss's room.

He wasn't surprised to find his middle son asleep, Hoss could sleep anywhere and he usually did it while snoring, and tonight was no different.

Ben stifled a chuckle at the way he found Hoss. He too was fast asleep but he found him lying flat on his back in his nightshirt without a blanket covering him. After tucking the quilt snugly around him Ben proceeded to his youngest sons room.

He didn't know how many times he told Little Joe not to sleep with his window open so close to winter. The weather was too predictable and the last thing he wanted was the boy to get sick if a cold front blew in in the middle of the night.

Closing the window tightly, Ben moved on to his eldest daughters room.

Kate to had fallen asleep reading her new book but it appeared to Ben as if she was doing it in the dark with only the light of the mon shining through the window. Again, he had no idea how many times he had told her that she would strain her eyes reading in the dark but his warning usually fell on deaf ears.

"Pa," Kate mumbled, trying to blink away the sleepiness.

"Is something wrong? Is it time to get up?"

"No," he shook his head. "Go back to sleep sweetheart."

Kate rolled over trying to find her most comfortable sleeping position while Ben took a seat on the edge of her bed rubbing small circles on her back the same way he had done when she was little and he was trying to get her to sleep.

Just as Ben predicted, it wasn't long and her breathing turned heavy. Placing a gentle kiss on her head, Ben turned to the leave the room. Being careful to close the door gently behind him.

Lou Anne, Hoss and Joe were alll heavy sleepers but Kate and Adam were quite the opposite.

Lou Anne was wild when she was awake and it was no different when she was asleep. And as usual, he found his youngest lying halfway on and halfway off the bed.

He wasn't sure how long she would stay in that position, but Ben picked her up before returning her to the correct position. Her head on her pillow and body snuggled under her sheet and heavy quilt.

Closing her door behind him, he took one last look down the hall, his gaze stopping briefly at each closed door.

There were times when Ben Cartwright was almost certain his children would be the death of him. But then there were other times, such as this when he wondered what he would ever do without them.

"A fathers job is never done," he whispered to himself with the shake of the head and a smile resting on his lips.

XXXXXXXX

Breakfast the following morning, started with Ben issuing the days chores that needed to be addressed.

"We have a lot to do before Saturday," he started to say. "I want the yard," he started to say but was interrupted by his middle son.

"What's Saturday Pa?"

"The wedding

"Your getting married this Saturday?!" Joe was up in an instant, followed shortly by Lou Anne.

"Sit down!" Ben ordered. "And watch your tone."

Joe dropped back into his seat but Lou Anne hesitated.

"Obey me Lou Anne," Bens voice was threatening.

"Yes Pa," Lou Anne was quick to follow her brothers example.

"That's better," Ben proceeded by pulling the sheet of paper he had jotted a few things down on. "Joe, your good suit is getting a little small in the length," Ben read one of the first things off the list. "And Lou Anne, you need a new dress."

"No we don't Pa," the two said simultaneously. Knowing that a new set of clothes meant a trip to town where they had to stand still for measurements.

"My suits fine Pa," Joe tried.

"You were just telling me before my trip that it was getting too tight," Ben reminded him.

"Can't I wear one of Kate's old dresses?" This time it was Lou Anne's turn to plead with him.

"Now Lou Anne, you know none of Kate's clothes are worth wearing by the time she's through," Ben reminded her of how hard her sister was on her clothing. The bottom of her dresses always frazzled and the knees of her work pants always worn through even through the patches.

"What can I say I'm a hard worker," Kate grinned.

"In your Sunday clothes?" Ben stifled a laugh.

"Well sitting on those hard benches for so long can be hard on clothes," Kate tried to justify why her clothing seemed to always be a mess.

"So is fighting behind the church."

"Get in a fight one time in your Sunday clothes and your labeled for life."

Ben was about to say something about being glad she learned her lesson but his fiancé spoke first.

"I can take care of the sewing and measurements for new clothes," Rachel offered. "I'm a pretty fair seamstress."

"Thank you," Ben said eternally grateful. "I'll be sure and get you some material. But since we don't have much time before the ceremony I'll take them into town tomorrow and get some already made at the general store."

Joe and Lou Anne let out a sigh, glad they weren't going to have to go through the dreaded task. Knowing it was a lot easier just to try a couple different sizes on before settling on the right one.

Now that the conversation had drifted to clothes Adam made his excuse and left the table. Eager to get outside and to one environment he figured was safe from change. Even if he was going to have to work while he was out there. He wasn't surprised to see his siblings quick to join him to get started on their designated chores. Truthfully, they weren't looking forward to the added work to get ready for the ceremony any more than he was but at least they didn't have to stay inside with the finances and get goaded into spending time with Rachel.

With Ben being away for several days, he became behind on most of his desk duties. Including payroll, scheduled jobs for the hired hands and bids for army contracts.

This left Rachel alone, her future step children all out and busy with their chores.

She had already cleaned up the breakfast dishes and this left her to twiddle her thumbs before lunch.

"Pa!" Lou Anne slammed the front door of the house as she came in. "Can I shoot the rooster?"

"No. And don't slam the door."

Rachel, who wasn't used to the Cartwright children's antics, couldn't help but laugh at the girls question. Not knowing that she was completely serious regarding the question and her laughter only caused a brooding expression to cross the child's face.

"Pa?" Lou Anne wasn't a bit put off by his correction over the door. She had grown quite accustomed to it in fact. Unfortunately, she just couldn't remember when going through a doorway.

"Yes?" Ben looked up.

"That rooster hates me. Can't Kate take care of the chickens."

"No," Ben repeated. "She has her own chores to do."

Lou Anne wasn't happy with his answer but she knew there was no use in arguing. Knowing that once he made up his mind, there was no changing it.

With Lou Anne back outside, Ben being careful to make sure she didn't slip over to the gun cabinet for a rifle.

"Ben," this time it was Rachel's turn to disturb him. "With you and the kids busy with chores day in and day out I was thinking, there has to be something I can do."

"Not just yet Rachel, you just got here."

"Ben, I need to help out with chores around the place."

"Rachel," Ben tried.

"Ben," Rachel repeated. "Surely I should know the ins and outs of the daily ranch chores. If one of the children gets sick or something someone needs to be able to take care of them."

"If that happens, we'll do as we've always done. I definitely have enough kids to pick up the slack."

"Do you ever take any of them along on trips with you?" She asked, thinking of another reason they wouldn't be able to fulfill their chore responsibility.

"Of course," Ben nodded. "Before Marie passed I took Adam from time to time. After that, he was needed to watch over the younger ones. In the beginning, I didn't like leaving him with all four of them so I would take Kate or Little Joe along. Lou Anne was too young at the time to sit quietly during meetings so she had to stay behind and I figured Hoss was needed to help out with the chores."

"Now that I'm here, maybe you can take Hoss or Adam again."

"I plan too," Ben admitted. "As soon as you settle in and the children get to know you."

"That's why I think I should learn to do their chores. Maybe if I spent time with them teaching me. It might help for us get to know one another in a work environment rather than an awkward environment like it has been."

"Might do some good," Ben shrugged. "But until then, I know something you can do."

"Really?" Rachel looked interested.

"You can go out and ask Adam to come in. I have a job for him."

"Is it something I can do?"

Ben chuckled but shook his head. "I don't think you're ready to make a trip into town by yourself just yet."

"Ben, I'm not a child."

"Its not that," Ben said quickly. "I just don't want you to get lost. If you lost your way it could take awhile for us to find you and you could get sick. The evenings are turning cold."

Rachel wasn't happy but she knew her soon to be husband was right. She had never been to this part of the country and knew it wouldn't be hard for her to lose her way.

"I'll go get Adam," she gave in. "Do you think he'd mind if tagged along?"

"I don't think so," Ben shook his head. "He's used to tag alongs with the kids. But if you really want something to do, with five kids there's always a pile of laundry."

"I'll get right to it," she said happily. "Just as soon as I get back from town with Adam."

"Now why do you want to go to town so badly?" He looked at her with an intriguing grin.

"I'm planning a wedding Benjamin."

"Augh," Ben stifled a laugh.

"Aren't you going to ask anymore questions?" She was surprised at his sudden stop.

"No," he shook his head. "Past experiences have taught me not to get in the way of brides to be."

"And you were very smart to pay attention," she placed a kiss on his cheek. "I'm going to go get Adam."

Rachel stepped off the porch and started to cross the yard as she went in search for Adam. Not seeing him in the yard, she strolled over to where Hoss and Loe Anne were filling the watertrough.

"Do you know where your brother is?"

"Which one? I got three," Lou Anne said sarcastically.

"Lou Anne," Hoss warned.

"Leave me alone Hoss," Lou Anne shrugged his warning aside.

"Better watch it," Hoss kept talking. "Pa's liable to come out."

"Adam," Rachel ignored the girls sarcastic behavior.

"He's in the barn Mam," Hoss was the one to answer.

"Thank you," she smiled at the young man, who responded with a sheepish grin.

Stepping through the open barn doors, she spoke when she didn't see the one she went in search for.

"Adam."

"Up here," Adam called from the loft where he was dropping hay down to Kate and Joe who were distributing it into the stalls. "Do you need something?"

"Not me especially," Rachel placed a hand on her chest. "But your Pa needs you to go into town and get the mail. He said he's waiting to hear back about some contracts he's put in for."

"I'll be in just as soon as I finish here," he replied. "Should be about ten minutes."

"I'll tell him," she smiled before leaving the barn.

"Are you really going to let her tell what to do?" Kate and Joe looked at their brother.

"She didn't," Adam shook his head. "Pa did."

"That doesn't mean you have to listen to her," Joe scoffed.

"I may not like it," Adam admitted. "But yes it does. She's going to be my stepmother and I have to be respectful. I've been Pa's son a long time and I know what happens when your not."

"I can't believe your talking like this?" Kate said flabbergasted. "You've said yourself how you didn't like Ma."

"I made the mistake of not giving her a chance and being sarcastic and disrespectful. Which Pa took on himself to take out if me."

"But you said," Kate started to say.

"It was a combination of Ma and Pa's doing," Adam clarified. "I was getting tired of not being able to sit comfortably when it came to Pa and it was Ma who took care of me when I got hurt and I started to realize how much she cared about me."

"Tell us the story again Adam, please," Kate begged.

"Later," Adam said just as soon as he reached the barn floor. "I've got to go see Pa," he shoved her into the hay as he hurried for the door.

"Awe Adam," Kate picked up a handful and threw it at him.

"Chores Kate, chores," he reminded her with grin.

"Your starting to sound like Pa," she sighed before heading to the trough to fill it with water.

"Pa!" Adam called just as soon as he stepped through the front door. "Miss Madden said you wanted to see me," he said when he found him sitting at this desk.

"I need you to go into town and get the mail. I'm expecting a reply regarding a timber contract I put a bin in for."

"Can I go too Pa?" Kate followed in closely behind her brother.

"Did you get your chores done?"

"Yes Sir," she responded quickly.

"And you'll mind your brother?"

Kate responded in the same manner as before and Ben gave his approval.

"Go wash up."

Kate disappeared up to her room in a matter of seconds and Ben turned his attention back to his eldest.

"While your there, you can get the things on this list," he handed him a small list on a sheet of paper.

Adam nodded in understanding before heading into the kitchen to wash up where he found Rachel.

Seeing the kitchen was in use, Adam proceeded to the kitchen door to wash up outside.

"Adam?" Rachel stopped him short. "Would you mind if I went along to town with you?"

"If you want," Adam had to admit he was taken back by her request. Not bothering to ask why she wanted to tag along.

"I'll go get ready," she left him the kitchen.

A few minutes later and Adam was ready and waiting in the yard with the buckboard. He waited several minutes for the woman, but he eventually gave up and went in search for her. Knowing he had work to do waiting for when he got back and at the rate he was going it was going to take him till tomorrow to get it done.

"Miss Madden," Adam stopped when he reached the open door of the downstairs bedroom.

"Adam, come in."

Adam stepped just inside the door when he repeated.

"Miss Madden."

"Adam, please, call me Rachel."

"Not sure how Pa would react to that," he admitted. "But thank you," he nodded.

"Are you ready to leave?" She had a feeling that was the reason he came looking for her.

"Anytime you are," he kept the conversation curt and not willing to say anything further.

"I'll be out momentarily."

Adam nodded and hastily left the room she was occupying.

He was standing next to the wagon when his sister bounded out the front door and climbed up the wheel and into the front seat like she normally did when it was just she and Adam going into town.

"Let's go!" She announced happily.

"Can't," Adam glanced at the watch he pulled from his pocket. "Miss Maddens coming along."

"Awe Adam," Kate complained loudly. "Why does she have to come?"

"Because she asked," Adams tone didn't exactly show pleasure. "What was I supposed to say?"

"Ugh, no," Kate made it sound as if it was as simple as that.

"Just get in the back," Adam wasn't in the mood to explain his reasoning.

The ride to town was made in silence. Rachel could tell how rigid they both were and even though Ashe wanted ask questions along the trail, she decided to keep them to herself and ask Ben at a later date. She had never lived on a ranch before or even as such a small town as Virginia City and almost everything leading to culture shock. They had barely driven into town when Kate threw herself over the edge before running off, yelling to Adam that she was going to return a book to her teacher as she went.

Adam had just pulled the buckboard to a stop in front of the general store where Rachel could do her shopping and he could take care of his fathers business checking the mail next door.

He was just helping Rachel down from the seat when he heard someone calling his name.

"Adam! Adam Cartwright!" Henry Bedew from the telegraph office called from across the street.

"Mr. Bedew," Adam shook his hand.

"Where you been boy? Haven't seen you in awhile."

"Babysitting," Adam replied in one word.

"Your Pa been away?"

"San Francisco," Adam nodded.

"There's a telegram for your Pa from Hop Sing," he handed the folded sheet of paper over.

"Cousin... Stop... Very sick... Stop... Stay... Stop... Longer..."

"You want to send a reply?" Mr. Bedew asked once Adam placed the telegram in his pocket.

"Yeah," Adam took the offered notepad and pencil before scribbling down a quick reply.

"Stay... Stop... Long... Stop... As needed... Stop

Signed... Stop... A Cartwright.

"Thanks Adam," Mr. Bedew took it from him. "I'll get this out right away."

Adam nodded and replied. "Just put it on the Cartwright bill, Pa will be in next week to settle up."

"Right," Mr. Bedew nodded before returning to the telegraph office.

Adam wasn't real interested in leading Rachel into the store and making introductions to the couple they did business with almost weekly. Yet he also figured he didn't have a choice. He knew he was expected to do so and his father wouldn't be very happy with him if he left her standing alone out in the street. On the other hand, he wasn't sure how he was ever going to manage to get the words out regarding her identity and why she was there.

He had just stepped onto the boardwalk when the woman next to him spoke.

"You don't think you should ask your Pa before sending a reply?"

"No," Adam shook his head. "He'd say the same thing."

Rachel nodded in agreement and then continued.

"Didn't mean to tell you what to do," Rachel had a feeling he wouldn't like being told what to do by a stranger who basically knew nothing about himself, ranch business or the people in town.

"Why not?" Adam shrugged. "You have every right too. At least you will."

"I don't know how I'll be able to do. I'm not used to being a mother, or step mother rather," she corrected herself rather quickly.

Adam didn't say anything and instead continued the short trek into the open door of the general store.

Rachel could tell he wasn't interested in saying anything further and knew she needed to pick up her pace if she was going to be able to enter along with him rather than another customer.

Adam entered and immediately went to observing the occupants of the general store offering a silent pray that they would be left alone with the store owners if even just for a few moments while he made the introductions. He would make it quick but even then he wasn't sure if it would be painless.

Letting out a breath he didn't realize he was holding Adam approached the counter.

"Adam," Mrs. Brady greeted the young man with a smile. "Afraid we haven't gotten any new books in yet."

Adam smiled at well she new him despite how nervousness he was.

"Thank you, but that's not why I'm here," he fished the list his father gave him from his pocket. "We need a few supplies."

"I'll get started on this right away," Mr. Brady took the list from it before scanning it to see if he had any questions. "Are you in a hurry?"

"I have to make a quick stop to check the mail but that's about it today."

"We'll have it done," Mr. Brady pulled a crate out from under the corner to start stacking the supplies in.

"How'd you make it into town alone?" Mrs. Brady couldn't help but wonder knowing it wasn't very often he didn't have a younger sibling tagging along.

"I didn't," Adam shook his head. "Kate's around somewhere."

He took another deep breath knowing how lucky he was that no one else had yet to enter and he knew that it was now or never.

"Also," he cleared his throat. "This is Rachel Madden," he somehow managed to get he name out. Then again that was the easy part. The reason she was there however wasn't so easy. "She's Pa's fiancée."

He could tell the Brady's were trying to hide their surprise but that was easier said than done as their mouths were shaped in the expression of an Oh.

"It's a pleasure to meet you Miss Madden," Mrs. Brady finally found her voice.

"Please, call me Rachel," Rachel shook their hands hoping to meet friends of Bens that could become friends of hers as well.

"Then you must call me Sarah," Mrs. Brady smiled. "And is there anything I can help you find for the wedding I can assume your planning?"

"Please," Rachel looked hopeful. Thinking that perhaps she would have someone other than Ben who actually wanted to get to know her.

"Miss Madden," Adam reached out to touch her arm before she was led to far into the store. "I'll be back as soon as I get finish Pa's business."

"That's fine," she barely got a chance to get the words out before Sarah led her to bolts of material, lanterns and other decorative items.

Adam wasn't gone long before he came back with a few envelopes from the post. Stuffing them into his jacket pocket he reluctantly returned to the store. He barely had a chance to take his hat off before Rachel called him over.

"Adam, do you think Ben would like this?"

"Hmm," Adam was surprised by the question.

"Do you think your Pa would like this for a wedding present?" She asked handing him a leather bound journal.

Adam ran his thumb over the soft leather before opening it to reveal a bunch of solid white paper for him to inscribe the days activities.

"I'm sure he would like it fine," he nodded. Mumbling under his breath that he was sure he would have plenty to write about in the days to come.

He had just finished loading the last of the supplies when he returned to escort her back to the buckboard when he interrupted her predicament.

She had a number of different items laid out on the counter. The journal, decorative lanterns for the wedding to light the yard and a few other things that had already been packed away.

She was just reaching into her bag to pay when she realized she didn't have enough to pay. She had just started to tell Sarah of the items she was going to have to put away when Adam gathered all the items together and finished stacking them in the crate that had been set out for her purchases.

"Put it on the Cartwright account," was all he said before heading for the door leaving Rachel to stare after him. Unsure if she should stop him and continue with her original plan of leaving some things behind or just giving in so she wouldn't cause a scene with struggling under the weight by returning the crate to the store and very well end up embarrassing both Adam and the Cartwright name. Deciding she wouldn't risk it, she gratefully turned to the Brady's to think them for their time and help before inviting them to attend the ceremony.

"Adam," Rachel hurried to meet Adam at the back of the buckboard. "Are you sure?" She started to ask about his father minding but was cut off.

"I've known Ben Cartwright all my life. I think it's safe to say I know him well. It's fine." He wasn't willing to say anymore before offering his hand to help her climb up into her seat so he could go in search of the wayward sister that was supposed to meet them at the store but never made an appearance.

"The Brady's seem like fine people," Miss Madden said trying to make conversation. Not wanting the trip home to be as silent as it was on their way into town.

"Yes Ma'am," Adam agreed.

"Can we keep the journal between us?" She looked at the young man hopeful. "I don't want your Pa to know till the wedding."

"Yes Ma'am," again that was all Adam said.

Rachel expected getting him to talk was going to be difficult and she was almost at a loss for her words herself as she was growing tired of the same two word answers.

"You know?" Just when she was about to give up she was reminded of something had been wanting to say since he first called her by her name.

"Your not going to be able to call me Miss Madden once your Pa and I marry."

"Guess not," Adam picked up the reigns before speaking to the team. "Haven't really given it much thought."

"You'll have to call me something," Rachel told him what he already knew. "Might as well start calling me Rachel now. Don't see how a couple days will make a difference."

"Don't know," Adam shrugged.

Again with the two word answers Rachel decided not to push it any further for the time being and went silent.

They were just about out of town Adam thinking that the best place to start looking would be where he dropped her off. Just as the thought entered his mind he had to pull the buckboard to a quick stop to keep from running over the two girls that ran out across the street and in front of him.

"Kate!" Adam hollered at her when he realized that one of them was his sister.

"Sorry Adam," Kate's friend Mary apologized as she continued on her way alone.

"I thought you were going to return a book to your teacher and then meet us at the store?" He asked as Kate returned to her seat in the back of the buckboard and they headed out of town.

"I was," Kate said honestly. "But the last place Mary wanted to go was the store. Said she got into trouble this morning with Mrs. Brady. And before you ask Mark wasn't around today, he had errands for his uncle." Kate had a feeling she knew what his next question would be.

Adam was about to say something further when Rachel interrupted.

"Who's Mark?"

"Mary's brother," Adam explained. "They live with their aunt and uncle, Mr. and Mrs. Brady."

"And they are friends of yours?" Rachel nodded at first Kate then Adam.

"Yeah," Kate said sarcastically before going a bit further. "What's it to you?"

"Kate," Adam said sharply before turning around to look at her.

"Oh come on Adam, Pa's not here, you don't have to put on a facade."

"Kate," Adam repeated looking mad enough to chew nails but Kate wasn't backing down.

"She might not know what your doing but I do and that's exactly it. Your putting on a front so she won't know how you really feel. You don't want Pa to get married any more than we do."

By now the three were safely on the ponderosa and out of earshot from anyone and Adam was free to say what he had been holding in.

"Just shut-up will you?! Shut-up!" Adam glared at his sister. "It's Pa's life, he can do what he wants."

"Yeah but it's our life too we have to live with him."

Rachel tried to speak wanting to tell them that she had no intention in changing their lives too much but their tones were increasing with every word they spoke soon making it obvious to the woman that she wouldn't be able to get a word in edgewise. Giving up, Rachel did the only thing she could think to do to end the bickering and that was get out and walk. And if that didn't help at least she would be out of earshot.

She hated arguing, especially when it was centered around her or she was the cause of it. And that's exactly what this was. She didn't know how but she somehow managed to jump out of a moving wagon without falling facedown in the mud and did it without Kate or Adam even noticing.

She didn't get very far, then again she wasn't sure how far she intended to get or even how far she wanted to get. All she knew was she had to do something to make a point and that was all she could come up with.

Adam saw her out of the corner of his and immediately grabbed Kate's arm to turn her attention to something other than their argument.

"What's she doing?" Kate looked confused.

"Doesn't matter," Adam ignored her question. "But you do realize that if Rachel gets home before we convince her to get back in the wagon and Pa finds out she's walking because we were arguing do you know what he will do to us?"

"Uhh," Kate shuttered at the thought.

"That trouble you got into last night won't be anything compared to what we'd get," Adam pulled the buckboard to a quick stop before making long strides to reach Rachel and Kate had to jog to keep up with him. Instantly forgetting all about their argument and joining together on a more important mission entitled, "save their hides."

"Miss Madden," Adam was the first to reach her, quickly stepping in front of her to get her attention.

Rachel wasn't in the mood to talk and easily sidestepped him continuing her trek down the broken path.

"Please get back in the buckboard Miss Madden," Adam followed her, taking her gently by the arm to stop her.

"Why?" She looked at the siblings. "So I can listen to you argue about me. No," she pulled her arm away from his grasp. "I don't think so."

"We won't argue anymore," Kate promised.

Rachel sighed but eventually forged ahead with another question.

"Why do you want me to get back in the buckboard so badly?"

"Ugh," Kate started to say, trying to come up with the right words without telling the whole truth. "It's a long walk back to the ranch Mam."

"I'm not going to tell your father if thats what you're worried about."

Neither of the siblings spoke for a time, completely unsure of how to respond.

"You have every right to tell Pa," Adam finally spoke.

Kate's mouth dropped at her brothers statement but didn't say anything. "What was he trying to do? Get them killed."

"It was wrong of us to argue in front of you like that and we apologize. Right Kate?"

"Ugh, right Adam," Kate still wasn't sure what to think but she knew how good her eldest brother was at getting them out of messes they got themselves into and followed his lead. "I apologize too Miss Madden."

"I accept your apology," Rachel said first of all. "But only if you both call me Rachel," she gave them an ultimatum.

Adam and Kate exchanged glances as if trying to determine if it was worth it. Kate still weren't sure how she felt about the woman and she figured that by addressing her by her first name she were somehow giving in. Adam on the other wasn't sure if his father would permit it, saying something about it not showing proper respect by using an elders first name.

"I don't know," Adam spoke for the both of them.

"It's the only way I'm not going to tell your Pa," Rachel held firm with her proposition.

"Okay," Adam gave in. "But can we please finish discussing this in the wagon Rachel?"

"Yes," Rachel was pleased with her small victory. Sure she had used blackmail to do it and she wasn't proud of it, then again she was willing to do almost anything to make headway. She knew she still had a long way to go to get them to accept her but she would take the battles one at a time before she was victorious.

"I like you a little more now that you've shown some gumption," Kate admitted.

"Thank you," Rachel laughed, dropping an arm over the girls shoulder.

"Not that much," Kate sidestepped her. "But how far were you planning to walk anyway?"

"I don't know," she admitted.

"How far were you willing to follow?"

"To the ends of the earth when it comes to staying on Pa's good side."

XXXXXXXX

The day of the wedding dawned upon them and they were all busy. Joe and Lou Anne had been sent to make sure everything out in the yard had been picked up while Adam and Hoss took care of the chores. Kate remained silent and distant most anytime Rachel was around but she begrudgingly did what she was asked in helping with the final wedding preparations.

"Can somebody help me with this stupid tie," Joe stepped out of his room after growing tired of fumbling with the string tie around his neck.

"Whats wrong Little Joe?" Adam called from the open door of his bedroom.

"I can't get my tie straight," he complained.

"Let me see," Adam had him raise his chin a bit so he could start all over.

"I hate dresses," Lou Anne came down the stairs pouting as she wore a pale pink dress, her hair in pigtails.

"But you look so beautiful in them," Rachel tried to cheer her up. "And you look very handsome," she smiled at Hoss who came down in a dark brown suit and cream colored shirt underneath, his hair unusually slicked back.

"Thank you," Hoss tried to force a smile but all he could think about was how much he wanted to wear his new hat.

Adam and Joe came down simultaneously. Adam in a black suit, black tie and black vest. The only form of color underneath was the whit shirt he wore under the vest.

Joe on the other hand wore a grey suit with a black tie and light blue shirt.

Kate was the last to descend the stairs in a red dress with yellow flowers covering it. Her hair was down with just a bit pinned back and she didn't look anything like the girl that was usually in a faded dress or work pants, hair pulled back and a hat planted on her head.

"Wow," everyone in the room staired at her dumbfounded.

Joes mouth was dropped open and Kate shoved him as she passed him.

"Your going to catch flies with your mouth open like that."

"My children do clean up nice," Ben said proudly as he observed the crew around him.

"So does their father," Rachel kissed him.

"Not before the wedding you two," they were interrupted by Bens youngest son.

"This is going to be a long night," Lou Anne said to herself before hurrying outside before Ben had a chance to remind her not to get dirty.

They reached the hour of the wedding and lamplights glimmered around the inside and outside of the ranch house.

Ben stood to the left of the minister and Rachel on his right. Directly behind Ben stood Adam, Hoss and Joe. Directly behind Rachel stood Kate and Lou Anne. Joe and Lou Anne had a contest going at who could make the funniest faces at one another but remain straight faced and not laugh at the others antics. They didn't get very far into the contest when they both let out a laugh. Ben cleared his throat as a means of a warning and the two were quick to call their contest to an end, content that it was a tie.

Now that the ceremony was over and Rachel was officially introduced as Mrs. Ben Cartwright the festivities began. Starting first with the reception, which was by far Hoss's favorite part of the night. The couple took the first dance followed shortly by a few others and the night wore on.

Bens gaze had been fixed on his beautiful wife most of the evening as he counted himself blessed to find a woman who not only loved him but vowed to love his children as well.

Ben looked around the room focusing on his children one by one. Adam had been asked to dance by Mrs. Brady and he happily obliged. Hoss was paying the reception table plenty of attention. A glass of punch in one hand and a sugar cookie in the other. Kate and Joe were running around the room with Mary and a couple of their other school friends trying to avoid unhappy glares from parents. He knew he should have a word with the two that belonged to him but he figured as long as they avoided running into someone or breaking something he would let them have a little fun. It took him a little longer to find Lou Anne who was sitting at the foot of the stairs her eyes heavy and her head drooping. Squatting down in front of her, Ben held out his arms.

"Let's get ready for bed," he picked her up.

"I'm going to take this one up to bed," Ben whispered to Rachel. Lou Anne's head already lying on her father shoulder, her eyes barely open.

Rachel bid her goodnight and the child tried to reply but barely got the word good out before it was interrupted by a yawn.

"I think I'm going to find me a dance partner," the bride of the evening revealed her plans.

"Just remember your mine now," Ben winked at her.

"Don't tell me your jealous already," she teased.

"You are beautiful," he complimented.

"Well there's a young man over there that's caught my eye," she nodded at Adam who was standing off to the side talking with Mark Brady. "And I think he's danced with every lady here but me."

"Well I think I can trust him," Ben agreed. "And he is the better dancer of the boys. Marie tried to teach Hoss but every lesson ended with her nursing sore feet."

"And Joe?"

"Joseph has potential," Ben admitted. "He's very light on his feet. But he's not interested just yet." He laughed at the boy who was currently having a contest with Hoss on who could stuff the most cookies in their mouth. Ben knew who would come out the winner, but that never stopped Joe before.

The night drew on and it was late by the time they said goodby to their last guest.

Lou Anne had been asleep for hours but the others were still downstairs with their father and stepmother. The room was quite messy with dishes left about, the furniture moved to make room for the dance floor and of course dirt that had been tracked in from boots coming in and out.

Rachel had started to do a little picking up here and there but Ben was quick to tell her to leave it until the morrow when they would work together to return the room to its original state. He had sent the kids to get ready for bed leaving all but he, Adam and Rachel down stairs. Rachel wanted to at least put the food away while Ben went out to retrieve the lanterns outside and Adam carried in more wood to restock the fire. Content the bare minimum had been completed, Adam withdrew to his bedroom leaving husband and wife alone. The room was dark aside from the light from the fire and the one lamp Ben left lit to carry up to the bedroom.

"It was a beautiful evening," Rachel seemed pleased.

"I don't think I noticed much," Ben caressed her cheek. "I could barely take my eyes off you."

"Oh Ben," she laughed.

"I thank God every day I found you," he was being completely serious.

"Ah," she agreed. "But I think it was I who found you."

"Doesn't matter," his face but inches away from hers. "As long as we're together."

He pressed his lips firmly against hers.

XXXXXXXX

Things didn't change much after the wedding, aside from Rachel's living accommodations. She was still trying to settle in by unpacking her trunk and other things that finally arrived from San Francisco causing the interior of the house to bring about a lighter tone. She draped a small bright colored quilt over the back of the sofa. Placed flowers in the center of the coffee table and embellished a bright table clothe to cover the plain wood table.

Her relationship with her stepchildren had yet to improve. They were all calling her Rachel now but when she was alone with them and they were out of earshot of their father she could tell their tone towards her was still surly. Adam kept his tone generally the same, then again he didn't say much at all. Hoss seemed to be coming around but she had a feeling he would be the easiest to win over. Especially when she invited him into the kitchen to taste a few of her chocolate creations. Kate strived to never be left alone with her, it being obvious she was still tempted to voice her thoughts. And that would only bring trouble with her father. She had after all been the one sent to her room, given extra chores or other forms of punishment for her treatment of her. Joe had yet to show his hand, but she didn't think it would be long before the youngest son of Ben Cartwright made his opinions known. Lou Anne continued to be a handful with her quick outburst and Rachel had a feeling that the child had another trick up her sleeve.

It was late in the afternoon when Ben received word that there was to be a meeting of all the local ranchers in town that night and he was going to have to attend.

"Will you be here for dinner?" Rachel asked just before heading into the kitchen to start dinner.

"Don't think I'll have time," Ben shook his head. "I'll get something in town. But," he started to say but hesitated.

"But?" Rachel could tell he had more to say.

"I'll be leaving the children here."

"We'll be fine," she assured him. "Maybe it will give me a chance to talk freely with them."

"Don't let them get away with anything," he warned. "For if you do just one time they will never take you serious."

"We'll be fine," she repeated.

"I'll try to hurry back."

"Take your time. You haven't been out alone since I came."

"Just the same," Ben didn't sound convinced. "I'll be home as soon as I can." he said before making his retreat to his bedroom to change out of his work clothes.

"Pa?" Adam knocked on his bedroom door just a few minutes later.

"Come in," Ben had just finished changing into a clean pair of pants.

"Pa," Adam repeated now that he was inside his fathers bedroom.

"What is it son?" Ben asked before splashing some water from the basin on his face.

"Rachel said you had a cattle meeting tonight?"

"That's right," Ben could tell he had something more to say but wasn't quite sure how to say it.

"May I go to the meeting?"

"Hmm," Ben sounded as if he was considering it but changed his mind when he remembered that he would have to leave his three youngest with their new stepmother.

"Not this time son," he regretfully turned him down.

"Why not?" Adam looked at him intently.

"Because I would have to leave your stepmother alone with the children and I'm afraid they won't behave." Ben took the tie he had dropped over the back of his chair.

"Your going to have to leave them alone with her sometime." Adam complained.

"Adam," Ben placed a hand on his shoulder to calm him.

He knew what he said was true but he wasn't sure if he was ready for that yet.

"It's true Pa," Adam stood, frustrated as he started to pace.

"I know," Ben agreed. "And as much as I'd like for you to come. I just can't, not yet anyway."

"And just what am I supposed to do?" Adam turned around.

"With you here, I think they'll be more likely to behave."

"Can't you just threaten them like you always do?" Adam tried again.

"I can," Ben admitted. "But it didn't do much for you when you were in their shoes."

Adam sighed, but eventually relented.

"I'll stay."

"I know this hasn't been easy on any of us." Ben this time placed a reassuring hand on his sons arm. "But your the man of the house while I'm gone. And I'll tell you all about it when I get home."

"Sure Pa," Adam forced a smile. "I'll saddle your horse." He started to leave the room.

"Adam," Ben stopped him. "I promise, next time you can come along."

"Sure Pa," Adam repeated. "I got chores to do."

Ben knew he was disappointed and he couldn't blame him, not really. In fact, he was a little disappointed himself. He enjoyed showing off how smart his young son was on things. But even that couldn't shake him from reality and not wanting to put his wife through any unnecessary trouble that Adam couldn't hinder.

Unfortunately, there were some things that Adam couldn't stop. At least not until they were over and done with or at least started considering it was that evening that Little Joe chose to enact a bustle of trouble all geared towards his stepmother.

It all started when Joe was asked to clear the table after dinner. Only instead of clearing of the dishes Joe chose then to practice his magic tricks by pulling the tablecloth out from under the dishes causing everyone of the dishes to crash to the floor, strawberry jam staining her brand new white tablecloth.

"Joe Cartwright!" Rachel had since the wedding learned sometimes she had to say something to the children when it came to unnecessary events taking place.

"I think I need a little more practice," Joe looked from the mess to Rachel.

The crash of dishes brought the rest of the family running into the dining room, and it didn't take much for Adam to figure what had just occurred.

"You ruined it Little Joe," Rachel was almost in tears at the sight of her brand new tablecloth.

"That's just Joe," Joe said indignantly.

"Joe!" Adam corrected. "Apologize."

"Sorry," Joe grumbled.

"He'll be sure to replace it," Adam assured her before glaring at his brother. "Won't you Little Joe."

"Now how do you expect me to do that older brother?"

"You'll work it off."

"Awe Adam."

"You know Pa told you no more magic tricks," Adam told him what he already knew.

"Fine," Joe stalked off angrily. "But I don't like it."

"You don't have to like it and I can assure you Pa won't like it when he gets home."

"Oh Adam," Rachel was quick to pull herself up from the ground and hurry over to her eldest stepson.

"I don't think we need to tell Ben about this."

"Rachel," Adam tried.

"He's going to pay for it and that's fine by me."

"Okay," Adam relented before giving one last warning to his brother. "But you better stay out of trouble the rest of the night."

trouble."

"I will Adam," Joe promised, being quick to escape to his room before he was told to clean up the mess he made.

Unfortunately, his promise was half lived when he found the firecrackers his father brought back from San Francisco. He had been dying to try them out but couldn't find the right target he could scare out of their wits. At first, he considered Hoss a perfect target, but changed his mind when he thought of what Hoss mighty do to him. And he was getting sick and tired of being tossed into the water trough by one of his older brothers. He was just about to drop them back into his desk drawer when he thought of Rachel. His face brightened when he thought of his stepmother who should be standing in the kitchen doing dishes. He knew it would be easy to sneak in undetected, light the firecracker and toss it where she stood. The only problem was how would he get ahold of the matches. He had been forbidden to ever touch them, then again his father wasn't home and it was obvious Rachel didn't wish to get any of them into trouble. He knew where his Pa kept the matches, leaving him with only one problem. Getting his hands on them without either Adam or Hoss finding out. He knew his sisters wouldn't tell, in fact they would encourage it. Adam and Hoss on the other hand would be sure to spoil his fun.

Luckily for him, Hoss was outside and Adam had his nose stuck in a book. Locating the matches, Joe stuffed them in his pocket alongside the firecrackers and tiptoed into the kitchen. He knew he would only get one chance to pull off his stunt, knowing she would hear him if he made too much noise and struggled with lighting the match. Striking the single match he held in his hand on the wall next to him Joe with sweaty shaky hands lit the small explosives before quickly tossing them under his stepmothers bare feet. Just as they hit the ground they started to pop followed by the frightened screams of his stepmother.

Rachel dropped the small cast iron skillet from her hands and it landed on her foot bringing about scream, only this one was done in pain.

Joe was about to attempt an escape but was colored by his oldest brother who came up behind him just in the nick of time. Again, he tried to run but Adam revealed impeccable strength and jerked him back roughly.

Rachel was in tears from the pain in her foot and it was evident in only increased when she hobbled to the stool.

"Joe!" Adam shook him to get his attention.

"You see what you did!" He practically drug him over to Rachel's side. Not only for him to see the problem he caused but also for Adam who wanted to make sure it wasn't broken.

Rachel was trying to keep the tears at bay but any slight movement in her foot made her wince in pain and they fell freely anyways.

"Apologize now," he ordered.

"I'm sorry Rachel," Joe dropped his head.

Rachel nodded, showing he was forgiven but that was all she could do. Not trusting her voice to speak, knowing she would choke out more tears.

"I'm going to let you go," Adam looked him square in the eye. "But if you run off and I find you I won't wait for Pa, and I'll wear your butt out myself."

Joe nodded in understanding and Adam released the tight grip he had on his arm.

"Go to your room," was the last thing he said before Joe sullenly left the room and headed up the stairs knowing he only had a matter of time before his father arrived and killed him.

"How bad is it?" Adam knelt to observe the already purplish bruise that started to appear as well as the swelling.

"It hurts," was all Rachel managed to say.

"Your going to need some ice," Adam reached into the small ice box for something cold to wrap in a cloth before applying it to her foot.

Adam placed it gently on the injury and she winced again, causing Adam to remove it just as quickly as he placed it there.

"You need to lie down first."

"I don't think I can walk just yet," she said truthfully.

"You won't have to," he stood to full stature. "I'll carry you."

"Adam," she tried to stop him but before she could get another word out he had her lifted into his arms and started for the stairs.

Rachel was surprised at how strong he was, then again she wasn't sure why she had seen his muscles through his shirt when he helped move the sofa back for the wedding and he did twice that on a daily basis on the ranch.

Adam set her down gently before taking one of the pillows on the bed and placing it under the injured foot to elevate it before once again returning the cold pack to it.

"I'm sorry about Joe," Adam apologized himself.

"It's fine," Rachel shook her head.

"No it's not," Adam shook his head. "And he's going to hear about it." He started to stand from where he was sitting on the edge of the bed.

"Adam don't," she grabbed his arm.

"Go easy on him son," Rachel looked at him hopeful. Hopeful that he would not only take her request to heart but that he wouldn't become upset with her for referring to him as her son.

Adam tensed when he heard what she called him. The only person to call him son since Marie died was Pa and he had grown accustomed to only hearing it from him. He didn't say anything about it but he did figure he owed her an explanation as to what he was going to do.

"I'm only going to talk to him. It's as he's said, Pa's home and I'm not in charge." Adam headed for his brothers bedroom where he found him staring out the window.

"Your sure going to be in for it," Adam crossed his arms in front of chest, with almost a hint of sympathy showing in his voice.

"Pa's going to be really mad," Joe sounded worried.

"I don't expect him to just pat you on the back and tell you he'll overlook it."

"Can't you punish me this time? Joe looked at him hopeful. "You did it when Pa was in San Francisco."

"You know I can't do that," Adam shook his head. "It's like you said, I'm not in charge anymore."

"But I though you were in charge when Pa wasn't here?"

"I am," Adam nodded. "But this is out of my hands and Pa's not out of town."

"In that case," Joe looked almost sick. "Take care of my horse when Pa kills me."

After the evening Adam had all he wanted to do was get out where he could be alone. He was heading down the stairs in a hurry to get out the door hoping the cool air would help clear his head. He was just passing his fathers desk when he saw his pipe lying in its usual place.

Picking it up, Adam lit it and made his way out to the porch.

He hadn't been allotted much alone time when Kate crossed the yard from the barn and stepped in front of him.

"What are you doing with Pa's pipe?"

"What's it look like?" He said sarcastically.

"Pa's never let you smoke before," Kate looked at him intrigued yet confused.

"I'm the man of the house when Pa's away," Adam made it sound as if there wasn't a thing wrong with it and as if he had been doing it for years.

"Well you better put that away before Pa gets home or the man of the house is going to get a whipping."

"He wouldn't do that."

"Care to put a wager on that?"

"Care to see what Pa would do if he hears about you gambling?"

"Touché," Kate leaned against the porch boulder.

"What was all the screaming about we heard from barn?"

Adam explained the events of the last hour and the only way Kate could respond was with the drop of her mouth.

"I think I'm going to go up to my room and read," Kate straightened.

"Wish I could do the same," Adam admitted. "But I got to wait for Pa."

"Yeah, I'd say I was going to go to bed but nobody's going to be able to sleep when he starts yelling."

"Don't I know it," Adam ran a hand through his hair.

Now that he was alone he started to come up with the best way to give his father the news regarding his youngest son knowing how upset it was going to make him.

Again, Adam wasn't allowed much time to think before his father rode in.

Hoss came out and took his horse from him and Adam barely had time to pull the pipe from his mouth and drop it on the bench next to him.

"Adam," Ben stepped onto the porch before taking a seat next to him.

"How was the meeting?" Adam was hoping to make a little small talk before giving him the bad news.

"Same as always," Ben said tiredly. "Endless talk of cattle prices, cattle drives and of course the weather and how we plan to feed all winter." He yawned once he made his last explanation.

"Sounds boring," he interpreted. "But I still wish I could have gone."

"Next time you can take in the whole boring event," Ben slapped him on the back.

"Just to keep you awake," Adam grinned.

"Adam?" Ben said questioningly. "What are you doing with my pipe?" He didn't miss the still smoking pipe sitting between them.

"About that," Adam choked as he cleared his throat.

Ben could tell he was struggling to find the words to excuse his actions and he considered letting him squirm but he wasn't in the mood for it and held up a hand to stop the wheels that were so obviously still turning in his sons head.

"I'm too tired to talk about it tonight," Ben picked it up and plucked it in his mouth.

"But don't let me catch you with it again," he warned. "Or your backside is going to be burning more than the pipe."

"Yes Sir," Adam said quickly.

Ben stood and was just about to pass him when Adam grabbed him by the arm.

"Sit down Pa, I have to tell you something."

"I don't like the way this is going," Ben could see something in his face that revealed just how right he was.

"Just wait till you hear the rest."

"Adam," Bens eyes were saying everything he wasn't. "What happened?"

"Rachel got hurt."

Adam barely got a chance to get the words out before Ben was up and crossing in front of him.

"Pa," Adam to was up and pulling him back by his arm.

"Boy," Ben looked him in the eye and said with a warning tone. "You better let me go if you know what's good for you."

"You didn't let me finish," Adam held tight.

Ben took a deep breath to calm himself before allowing him to continue.

"She's not hurt bad," Adam had a feeling he had better start there to alleviate his fathers fears. "She dropped the skillet on her foot when she was cleaning up after dinner."

"How?" Ben knew she was very capable at being able to handle herself in the kitchen.

"That's the part your not going to like," Adam hesitated.

"Who did it?" Ben ran a hand down his tired face.

"Joe," Adam regretted his last word before telling him the rest of the story.

"Tell your brother and sister to get ready for bed," Ben was angry but he knew he couldn't forget about the rest of the children and he knew the hour was late.

"Yes Sir," Adam started for the barn to get Hoss and Lou Anne who had been playing with the new barn kittens.

"Oh and Adam," Ben called after him. "Thanks for taking care of your stepmother."

Adam wanted to say he still wasn't sure about her but he knew she didn't deserve the pain Joe caused.

"I'm just glad it's not broken," he nodded before continuing on to the barn.

Minutes later and they heard a very familiar sound.

It was the sound of their father yelling their brothers full name.

"Joseph!" Ben yelled loud enough for every Joseph in a thousand mile radius to come running.

"Yes Pa," Joe knew better than to keep his father waiting for long when he was already in trouble.

"I hope you enjoyed your fun, cause it's the last bit of fun your going to have for a while."

Joe's head was dropped as low as it could possibly get when Adam, Hoss and Lou Anne came through the door.

"Excuse us," Hoss was making double time as he crossed the bottom floor in record time before hurrying up the stairs.

Lou Anne on the other hand wasn't at all in a hurry as she held her arms out to Ben for a hug and kiss.

Ben obliged but he was quick to send her on her way.

"Good luck little brother," Adam patted him on the back.

"Goodnight Adam," Bens voice was grave.

"Night Pa," Adam caught up with Lou Anne being careful to make sure she went all the way into her room and planned to go straight to bed. Reminding her that the last thing she wanted was to defy their fathers order.

Lou Anne readily agreed and once Adam was certain she had every intention in going to bed he returned to his fathers room to check on his stepmother.

"I'm sure you heard," he stepped through the door. "Pa's home."

"How could I miss it?"

"How's the foot?"

"Purple and bruised."

Adam lifted the cold pack to see for himself but he could tell she wasn't exaggerating.

"Sure is swollen," Adam observed. "I don't think you'll be dancing for at least a week or two."

"At least," Rachel agreed wholeheartedly.

"Hope you like reading."

"When I can find a good book."

"Pa's got lots of those."

"Seems to me you have more of a collection then he does."

Adam blushed but eventually replied.

"I do like to read."

"So I've been told."

"How bad is the pain?" Adam returned to the point of the conversation he felt more comfortable in discussing. Not really wanting to reveal too much about himself just yet and the topic of books would reveal such a thing.

"Bad enough." Rachel knew there was a lot he wasn't saying but she was grateful for what he was. Knowing this was the much he had ever said to her since she arrived.

"I think we have some powders for pain left that the doctor gave us when Pa turned his ankle in a gopher hole dismounting his horse."

"When did this happen?"

"Couple months ago," Adam recalled. "Me, Pa and Hoss were out on the trail when it happened."

"What did you do?"

"It was hard but between the two of us we somehow managed to get him back on his horse without having him bear too much weight on it."

"May be a good idea if I took half a powder so I can sleep tonight," Rachel said after thinking about it.

"I'll see if I can find them," Adam started to dig through the drawers.

"Can I help you find something?" Ben came in just as Adam started on the third drawer.

"The powders from when you hurt your ankle," Adam stood. "Rachel needs one."

"How are you doing sweetheart?" Ben was at Rachel's side in seconds.

"It could be worse," she smiled at him. "I could have dropped the large skillet and broke my foot."

"I'm sorry about Joe," Ben this time apologized for his sons antics. "I made sure he won't do it again."

"I don't think he did it to intentionally hurt me." Rachel tried to appease the situation.

"Intentionally or not. He was told not to play with matches, not to play with firecrackers in the house and to never throw them at someone. He broke all three of those rules." Ben said plainly as if any of his children would know what to expect after disobeying three different rules he had set in place for their or someone else's safety.

"The powders are in the kitchen," Ben told Adam to get them.

Adam had just crossed the room for the door when Ben stopped him.

"Oh, and put this back on my desk," Ben took the now empty pipe from his pocket.

"Mmm," Adams face reddened. "Right Pa."

"What's that all about?" Rachel could tell there was a lot left unsaid between father and son.

"He needed a reminder of what would happen if I found him with my pipe again. He's too young to be smoking."

"Always trying to grow up too soon," Rachel smiled at her husband. "But he's a good boy."

"He is,"Ben agreed. "But I have all good kids. Sometimes they just have to be reminded to stay that way."

"They are lucky to have you," she kissed him.

"I'm lucky to have them," Ben smiled. "And I better go check them on," he started to leave the room. "I'll be back soon to help you get ready for bed."

"I'm probably going to need it," she called after him.

She had barely been upstairs and unable to move for more than an hour but she had a lot of time to think between the bouts of pain she felt periodically. And she had to admit that even though she was up there alone and in pain from one of her stepchildren, she was grateful for each of them. Not matter what they put her through or was going to put her through. She remembered her life in San Francisco and how boring it was before she met Ben and his family. She would do her best to win each and every one of her stepchildren over. She had started with Hoss and already she seemed to be making progress with his elder brother. Then again, she could tell Adam had several different layers she would have to break through before she could officially count him as a win. She wasn't certain, but she had a feeling her accident may have brought a realization to Joe and the fact that she didn't wish him to be in trouble over the tablecloth. Kate and Lou Anne on the other hand were still proving to be a challenge and she had a feeling it was going to take time to bring them around. But she would continue to pray and care for them as best she knew how.

For she was officially a Cartwright and wasn't planning on going anywhere.

Hope you all enjoyed the update. Thanks for all the follows, favorites and reviews. Western Justice