CH. 5: One Injured and Four Sick

Kate slept off on and throughout the day. When she was awake she would either moan and groan or complain about being restless. And it was then she would crawl out of bed and escape to the settee for a change of scenery other than the four walls of her bedroom.

With Rachel spending most of her time indoors having to cook and clean she was able to keep the girl company most of the time. Their relationship had improved by leaps and bounds, by means of the two being able to keep up a conversation without Rachel having to be completely on edge and Kate not responding with a disrespectful comment or sarcastic facial expression. Even with that however didn't mean they didn't have a long ways to go, especially when it came to her or her siblings squirming anytime she was called their mother.

It was Friday and Kate was allowed to walk around the yard, but aside from that, she was still being made to take it easy.

Even though she enjoyed reading amongst other things of leisure, she had to admit she was ready to be left alone and go back to work that made a difference on the ranch. Unfortunately, she knew she wasn't well enough for that just yet.

Part of Ben wished his daughter would be interested in sharpening her knowledge of indoor tasks. She knew how to do a little light cooking as well as cleaning but that simply wasn't Kate. And Ben had to admit he respected her for not being afraid of hard outdoor work.

She had been told she could remain outdoors while the rest of the family did their chores but she had to remain on the porch. That being said, she didn't stay there long and couldn't help but go pick up the slats that had already been cut and carry them over the designated spot near the ladder.

With Ben working on the roof it was impossible for him to keep an eye on his eldest daughter and make sure she was taking time for herself. As for

Rachel, she was already flustered as she struggled with Lou Anne who seemed bent and determined to leave her things scattered about various locations around the house. Causing Rachel to stop every few minutes and pick up after her. Lou Anne was supposed to have plenty to keep her busy with winter chores but even that didn't keep her from running in and out and tracking dirt all over the house. She complained about not having anyone to play with. Kate having her own ideas of things to do and Joe having to help Adam and Hoss who were taking turns cutting the timber into slats for the roof while Ben and whichever son wasn't cutting slats nailed them in place.

"Lou Anne," Rachel was just coming out of the kitchen with a platter of sandwiches to place on the table. "Please go outside and tell your Pa and brothers that lunch is ready."

"Maybe we should eat before we call them in," Lou Anne suggested. "Or at least Hoss. So we get a chance to get plenty to eat."

"I made plenty for everyone," she assured her before scooting her out the door so she could get back to the kitchen for the mugs, glasses, and coffee Ben and Adam would want with their meals.

Lou Anne had just stepped off the porch and surveyed the yard. There was a ladder off to the side of the house near the washhouse door where she saw Ben and Adam up on the roof nailing slats. Hoss and Joe off near the woodpile one on each side of the hand saw where they were sawing timber planks and Kate was off at the corral leaning against one of the rails petting one of the colts.

Seeing as no one was paying attention to her Lou Anne took it as her opportunity to climb up the ladder and see the roof. She had always wanted to climb up there and slide down. But it seemed to her anytime the thought even entered her head her Pa or big brother Adam knew it and put a stop to it.

She had just reached the top step and peered over not only the roof but also the yard and some of the ranch. The truth was she loved climbing and most times it wasn't a problem. Except when it came to the roof. That was one area that could and would get her into trouble.

"Lunch is ready!" She knew she needed to announce before her Pa noticed and thought she had climbed up there just to play.

Adam and Ben looked up when they heard her voice. Ben being quick to fix her with a stern look.

"Lou Anne," Ben said roughly. "What did I tell you about climbing up that ladder?"

"To not to."

"Then why did you?"

"Rachel sent me to tell you lunch is ready."

"You could have told me from down there," Ben nodded at the ground.

"I could," Lou Anne admitted. "But it wouldn't have been near as fun."

"Lou Anne," Ben warned. "Get down now."

"And here I thought you'd be proud of me for listening to Rachel. Next time I'll just stay to myself."

"Lou Anne," Ben repeated in the same tone as before.

"Yes Sir," she grumbled, beginning to wonder if perhaps she shouldn't have climbed up there after all. Then again, getting the chance to look around was just about worth it.

Lunch was a rushed affair with Ben and the boys wanting to get back to the roof. Thinking that if they got that task done the rest of the winter preparations would be easy and not nearly as time-consuming.

Kate was talking a mile a minute thrilled that she had been released from her bedroom for the day and was able to have a conversation with more than one or two members of her family at a time as it had been as of late.

After lunch, it was decided that Hoss would take his turn up on the roof with Ben while Adam helped Joe with the splitting and Lou Anne carried armloads to the pile near the ladder for the roof workers.

Lou Anne soon grew tired of the multiple trips and soon returned inside for a snack.

"Rachel?" Lou Anne found her stepmother in the kitchen who was just taking a pan of freshly baked oatmeal cookies from the oven.

"Ooh, cookies!" Lou Anne started to reach for a cookie but was rewarded with a slap to the hand.

"Rachel," the girl complained. "I wanted a cookie."

"They're hot Lou Anne," she explained. "And they are for everyone, not just you."

"That doesn't mean we have to wait," Lou Anne wasn't willing to give in just yet and tried again to reach for a cookie.

"Lou Anne," this time she said her name with a bit more authority in her voice.

"Taking one cookie won't matter." Rachels tone did nothing to change Lou Annes' mind as she once again reached for the cookie.

"Lou Anne Cartwright!" Rachel held the wooden spoon in her hand that she had just finished washing from mixing up the cookie dough. "If I have to tell you one more time you are going to feel my spoon on your backside."

Lou Anne was caught off guard by her stepmother's warning and she wasn't exactly sure how to respond other than with a rude comment.

"Your not my Pa," she didn't exactly say it with malice, it was more of shock and awe and trying to determine just how serious she was.

"No but I am your stepmother and your father has already told you that you are to do as I say." Rachel didn't know what she would do if she persisted but she did her best to fix her with a stern glare.

She didn't think she could go as far as swatting her a few times with her spoon. But she was so frustrated with her not listening that she knew she had to say something and she had noticed the form of discipline that her husband used when he wanted to get their attention.

Lou Anne sighed but relented, unsure if she wanted to change the woman's threat.

"That's a good girl," Rachel patted her back. "I'll bring a tray of milk and cookies out for everyone in a few minutes."

"Yes Mam," Lou Anne grumbled. She wasn't exactly thrilled with waiting but knowing she didn't have a choice she left the house.

A few minutes later, after her run-in with her stepmother, Lou Anne crossed the yard sulking, kicking her boots in the dirt, her expression pouty.

"What's the matter with you?" Adam didn't miss her gloomy disposition when she rounded the corner of the barn where he was sharpening the blades to the saw.

"Rachel threatened to spank me," her lip was pursed so far out if it was any further he was sure she would trip over it.

"You'd probably deserve it," Adam muttered.

"That's not fair," she said belligerently.

"What did you do to make her think you needed a spanking?"

"Nothing," Lou Anne tried to sound innocent.

"Lou Anne," Adam wasn't buying it.

"I guess I was sort of not listening."

"Well then?" Adam knew that like all of Ben Cartwright's children, she knew that obedience was expected.

"It's still not fair," Lou Anne continued to mope. "She's not Pa and she's not my Ma."

"Lou Anne," Adam sucked in as he ran a hand through his hair. "She's Pa's wife. Which makes her your stepmother and has every right to discipline you if she sees fit. I can't tell you how many times Hoss and I felt your Ma's paddle and she was our stepmother."

"Awe Adam," she grumbled. "I hate it when you talk sense."

"If you think that makes sense. Wait till you hear this," he pointed at her. "You said she wasn't Pa. What do you think Pa would say if you asked him if Rachel had his permission so to speak to spank his children?"

"Do me a favor, Adam?"

"What?" Adam looked at her purposely.

"Shut up."

"Watch it, baby sister," Adam said teasingly. "You keep talking to me like that and I'm going to spank you."

"You can't," Lou Anne grinned. "Pa's here and your not in charge."

"Oh yeah," Adam tossed her over his shoulder before swatting her backside lightly.

"Put me down," Lou Anne giggled, kicking and screaming as she laughed so loud it resembled Hoss's deep laugh and got the attention of the rest of the family.

"Hey, you two!" Ben called after them. "I thought you were supposed to be working?" Ben couldn't help but laugh at his eldest and youngest's behavior.

"Sorry, Pa," Adam chuckled, setting his sister back down on her feet. "You heard the boss. Get to work."

Lou Anne was feeling a little better after talking to her elder brother and went over to the woodpile to carry a few more slats while Adam returned to the sharpening of the saw.

The only sound filling the ranch yard was an occasional hammer as Ben nailed the slats into place making it easy for everyone in the yard and house to hear the piercing yell from Hoss who slipped on a slat that had yet to be secured in place and fell roughly to the ground.

Ben descended the ladder in a matter of seconds and only took about that long for the other Cartwright siblings to join the huddle to check on the injured brother.

Hoss tried to get up but started to moan and Ben held him down firmly.

"Pa," Hoss choked out.

"Don't move son. Adam!" Ben looked at his eldest, urgency showing in his voice.

"Help me get your brother inside."

Father and son tried to be as gentle as possible, but Hoss still winced as he was lifted off the ground. Lou Anne ran ahead to open the door, calling for Rachel to come quick.

Knowing the boy was in pain Ben decided to settle him on the settee till the pain either eased or the doctor came and offered a little more knowledge regarding the injury.

"Where do you hurt son?" Ben was trying to figure out what his next move needed to be.

"My back hurts," Hoss tried to shift but stopped short when the pain increased.

"Anything else?"

"My left ankle."

"Better get his boot off and elevate that foot," Rachel was already moving to begin the task. "Hopefully it's just a sprain and not a fracture."

Ben sighed and was about to speak again but was cut off by his three youngest children who were gathered near the fireplace just watching and listening.

"I'm glad I wasn't standing where Hoss fell. I'd a been squished," Lou Anne said her eyes wide.

"Yeah, well at least he didn't fall through the roof. That would be a big hole to patch up." Kate offered her own observation.

"That would be a mess," Joe couldn't help but agree with her. "A lot more to it than replacing a few slats."

"That's enough out of you three," Ben barely glanced behind him as he held Hoss's leg up for Adam to position a pillow under it.

"Adam, ride for the doctor. Kate, sit down and rest. I don't want you to start feeling bad again. Lou Anne, you and Joe can start all the chores."

"Yes Sir," all four of them issued a response before going about assignments.

"How do you do that?" Rachel asked after the house turned quiet. Kate taking her place in her Pa's favorite chair, Hoss trying to keep still and Ben and Rachel hovering over him.

"Do what?" Ben took a seat on the edge of the coffee table.

"Keep track of what you just told each one of them to do and then remember?"

"Comes with the territory of being a parent to five kids for so long I guess," Ben shrugged never giving it much thought.

By the time the doctor got there Hoss' ankle not only doubled in size but began showing signs of turning a dark shade of purple. He was still having pain in his back but the pillows Rachel brought down from the bedroom and propped behind him helped ease the pain to some extent.

The three youngest Cartwright's were hovering over the settee barely giving the doctor room to examine his patient causing Ben to send them all but Kate out to help their eldest brother with chores.

"What's the verdict Doc?" Kate asked still perched on her fathers' red chair.

"Kate," Rachel looked at her stepdaughter before reminding her to stay quiet.

Kate sighed but obeyed, choosing instead to drop her chin in her hands.

"It's alright Mrs. Cartwright," Doc Martin smiled at the new wife of his good friend Ben.

"I'm used to the inquisitive minds of Adam and Kate Cartwright. And speaking of Kate," he turned to look at the girl. "How are you feeling young lady?"

"Hmm," Kate shrugged. "Could be better could be worse."

"How's that?" The doctor couldn't help but chuckle. The girl always did have a way with words, not unlike her brother Adam when asked a question.

"They won't let me do anything," she pouted, all the while gesturing at her Pa and stepmother.

"And with good reason," he said after placing a hand on her forehead, the same way her father had done multiple times in the past couple of days. "You've still got a fever."

"That's nothing," she shrugged again.

"It's enough to cause you to have a relapse. Now I want you to take it easy."

"Awe Doc," Kate started to complain. "But it's boring."

"You listen to the doctor Kate." Ben gave the final word. At least so he thought.

"Can't blame a kid for trying."

"As for Hoss," Doc returned to the edge of the settee. "He won't be able to put any weight on the ankle for a while. And as for his back, I'm fairly certain it's just bruised. With little movement and cool compresses on that and his ankle he should be alright."

"How long till he can move around on his own?" Kate asked what Rachel had been wanting to ask herself. "In case you hadn't noticed. He's a might bigger than the rest of us."

"Katherine," Ben gave her a warning look.

"I have noticed that," Doc Martin agreed with her.

"It took Pa and big brother both to carry him in here. And he's only 15. If he keeps growing and gets hurt again, it'll take all of us to get him in the house."

"Kate," Ben was growing tired of the way she kept pestering the doctor while he was working. "I think it's time you went upstairs to rest."

"She's not bothering me, Ben. And I don't think she's lying," he nodded at the boy on the settee while he wrapped his ankle.

"No, I reckon not," Ben still didn't like his daughter's constant chatter at this particular time but he couldn't help but smirk at the reality behind her statement.

"But to answer her question, the less active he is for the next several days would be best."

"Awe Doc," this time it was Hoss's turn to voice the same complaint his sister did just moments ago. "We got too much to do for me to be laid up."

"We'll keep him contained Dr. Martin," Rachel rubbed her stepson's shoulder.

"But the ranch," Hoss groused.

"Isn't as important as you," Ben gave the final word. "And it will still be here when you get back on your feet."

"Guess I've been beaten," Hoss sighed, trying to sit up. Moaning under the pressure in his back as he shifted uncomfortably from the pain.

"Try not to move son," Ben placed an assuring hand on his arm.

Reaching into his bag, Doc Martin took a bottle of pain medicine out before measuring a specific amount out and mixing it in a glass of water.

"Drink this," he handed the glass to Hoss. "It'll help with the pain. Afterward, we'll get you up to your room to rest."

A disgruntled look crossed Hoss's face once the taste of the chalky liquid touched his tongue but he somehow managed to get the liquid down.

"Doc," Hoss gagged. "I like most foods and drink. But that tastes awful."

Ben, Rachel, and Doc Martin laughed with Kate being the one to speak.

"That is one thing I never thought I'd hear come out of his mouth."

Rachel offered the Doc a cup of coffee but he declined saying that as much he'd like to take her up on the matter he needed to get back to town.

Ben walked him out before checking on the progress the other members of his family was making on chores and telling Adam that as soon as he finished up to come help him carry Hoss up to his room.

Returning to the house, Ben applied a rag wrapped around several ice chips to his son's swollen ankle before crossing the room to his favorite red chair that Kate was currently still occupying.

"Let me sit down," Ben told his daughter to get up before taking her in his lap.

"All I did was add an injured kid to my already sick one."

"Sorry," Kate shrugged before having a slight raspy cough.

"It's okay," Ben hugged her tight. "I love you anyways."

"I love you too, Pa." Kate leaned against his chest. "But I think you better spend the rest of the evening in your room resting."

"Awe Pa," she started to complain.

"Kate," Ben sighed. "You

"Just let me have dinner at the table and then I'll go up," she bartered.

"Kate," Ben repeated, beginning to feel a little flustered. First, he had an injured son as well as a daughter who was obviously still sick but was trying her best to hide it just so she wouldn't have to stay in her room.

"Please Pa, I don't ask for much." She tried to make it sound as truthful as possible when in reality it didn't matter how you sliced it, it was nowhere near the truth.

"Sure you don't," he chuckled, patting her on the back.

"So what do you say?"

"I'll give in but then it's straight to bed with you." He tried to appear stern but it was all a facade.

"Yes Sir," she returned to resting her head against his chest.

It was about an hour later when Adam came in pulling his hat off his head and wiping the sweat off his forehead with his forearm. His face was red and it was obvious it wasn't only from work but frustration.

"Now Pa," he said flustered. "I don't like complaining and I'm trying but I can't do mine, Hoss, Kates, and Joe and Lou Anne's chores on my own. At least not in a reasonable time."

"Aren't Joe and Lou Anne out there?" Ben looked confused. Knowing he sent them out there well over an hour and a half ago.

"They are, but they're too busy goofing off."

"Did you tell them to get to work?" Ben knew that Adam never shied away from telling his siblings what to do. Losing count of the number of times they called him Mr. bossy britches."

"Of course I did," Adam was surprised that he would even ask such a thing. "All they said was that you were here and they didn't have to listen to me."

"Tell them that I gave you permission to give them extra chores if they don't get to work."

"Don't you think I tried that already?" Adam grumbled.

Ben sighed but stood before setting Kate aside. "I'll take care of it after you help me get your brother up to bed."

Adam nodded but that didn't keep him from placing a hand on his back and moaning.

"It's going to feel like I broke my back. I knew letting Hoss up there was a bad idea."

"Adam, if I wasn't hurt I'd pound you for that."

"Will both of you hush so we can get this done?" Ben started to lift his upper body.

"Why do I get the boots?" Adam muttered lifting the lower half before struggling for the stairs.

Rachel rushed ahead of them to get the door to his bedroom open and his bed ready. After helping him get changed and settled and Hoss managed to regain his train of thought once the pain in his back subsided he found his voice.

"Adam, make sure Little Joe takes care of my pets."

"I'll tell him," Adam shrugged. "But I don't think he's going to be interested in taking care of Jasper the skunk." He added, before closing the door behind him and following his father and stepmother down the stairs.

"Skunk!" Rachel's mouth dropped open. "Hoss has a pet skunk?"

"Hoss's got lots of so-called pets," Ben didn't seem concerned and instead sounded as if he was all too familiar with the little critters that seemed to keep making a home on his ranch. "He's always bringing home strays."

"How many does he have?"

"Let's see," Ben rubbed his chin thinking. "He's got Jasper the Skunk, Curly the Armadillo, Ellie the Rabbit, and Smitty the Fox. That sounds about right son?" He looked back at Adam.

"Missing one, you forgot about Oscar."

"And who exactly is Oscar?" Rachel looked from Ben to Adam.

"Raccoon."

"Where does he find all these animals?"

"I wish I knew," was all Ben could think to say as he shook his head. "I'd never let him go there again."

XXXXXXXX

With everything going on with Hoss and her wanting to be close in case he needed anything, Rachel decided to make a quick dinner. She didn't have to help with chores since there was still Adam, Joe, and Lou Anne available along with Ben but that still left her alone with Hoss who kept calling her from his room for something or another as well as Kate who she sent up to her room to rest. She complained, saying her Pa said she could stay down till after dinner but with Ben outside she said it was her decision and she was worried about the fever she didn't seem able to shake and she was worried she would come down with something worse.

It took a little longer for chores to be completed but for that Rachel was grateful as she had the table set and was carrying dinner to the table by the time they came in to wash up.

"I'm going to take a plate up to Hoss and then we can eat," she announced.

"Great, I'm starved," Joe was already rolling up his sleeves, preparing to take his place.

"Joe," Rachel stopped him just as he started to sit down. "Wash up first, please."

Joe huffed but merely mumbled his frustration as he made his up to his room.

Dinner didn't start out as a lively affair, everyone focusing on their dinner. For a brief moment, Rachel worried that something was either bothering them or they too were turning ill. Then again, with Hoss upstairs and Kate merely picking at her food. It was obvious they were not at their best.

"Can I be excused Pa? I think I'd like to go up to my room for a while."

"Sure," Ben gave her a small apologetic smile before opening his arms for a hug.

Kate found comfort in those arms, she always had and now was no different as she laid her head against his. His suspicions were answered when he felt her head touch his and he exchanged glances with Rachel offering a short nod to answer the question on her mind as well. The fever was higher than before and the concern was evident in his eyes.

"Are you nauseous?"

Kate shook her head and Ben patted her back.

"Good, you get ready for bed and I'll be up to check on you soon."

"Yes Sir," she nodded before heading up the stairs.

With Kate upstairs in her room, Rachel looked at her husband seriously.

"I'm worried about her."

"I'm sure she just overdid today. I shouldn't have let her go outside."

"This isn't your fault," Rachel looked at him intently. "The fresh air was probably good for her."

"Maybe so, but she was probably too active out there and I was so busy I didn't pay much attention."

"I should have watched her better myself." Rachel figured she might as well share the blame.

"Did any of you see her overdoing today?" Ben looked from Adam, Joe to Lou Anne.

Joe shook his head while Lou Anne shrugged her shoulders.

Adam cleared his throat but eventually spoke up.

"I saw her carrying slats from the woodpile to the ladder."

"What?" Ben furrowed his brows. "And you didn't say anything?"

"What was I supposed to say?"

"Tell her no," Ben sounded as if he should have known.

"She's not my kid!" Adam finally raised his voice. Aggravated by the way his Pa was getting on to him.

"Adam!" Ben raised his voice glaring. "You know better than to talk to me like that."

"Who cares? Besides, I was on the roof with you."

"Who cares!" Ben echoed. "You're the oldest and you have a responsibility. If you see something you know they shouldn't be doing you are supposed to tell me. You know that."

"This isn't my fault!" Adam pushed his chair away from the table roughly.

"Adam," Ben's tone was rough. "You haven't been excused."

Adam ignored him and instead headed out the door angrily.

Ben started to follow suit but stopped when he felt a hand on his arm.

"Let him go, Ben," Rachel's voice was soft.

"That boy has no call to disrespect me," Ben pointed at the door. "And he's going to hear about it."

"Ben," she repeated. "He needs some time."

"Rachel," Ben started to say again.

"Maybe he should have said something." Rachel was trying to make him understand what she was getting at. "And he shouldn't have been disrespectful." Even she had to admit that he was wrong on that account. "But," she was careful to add. "He didn't deserve for you to get so upset with him. As he said, it isn't his fault she's feeling worse."

Ben sighed and let out a long breath he didn't realize he was holding.

"Your right," he nodded at his wife. "I'll talk to him."

Surprisingly, Joe and Lou Anne had kept their mouth's shut. Something completely out of the ordinary for the two Cartwright children. But if their Pa was getting on to older brother, something that didn't occur all that often, even they figured it was in their best interest to make themselves practically non-existent. Then again, no one had ever accused these two Cartwright's of being the smart ones in the family and they could only stay quiet for so long. And as usual, it didn't take long for Joe to speak up, Lou Anne being quick to follow.

"At least we don't have to go to church tomorrow with Kate and Hoss out."

"Who said we're not going?" Rachel looked at her youngest stepson intently.

"Aren't you and Pa going to have to stay with them?" Lou Anne looked confused.

"It doesn't take both of us," Rachel shook her head. "Your Pa will stay with your brother and sister, and me, you, Adam and Joe will go to services."

"Augh," Lou Anne and Joe complained. Thinking that perhaps they would have one Sunday where they didn't have to work or go anywhere and could spend the whole day playing.

"None of that," Ben interfered. "You know we go to church on Sundays."

"Yes Pa," neither of the siblings were happy about it but knew it wouldn't do any of them any good to argue or complain. Especially after seeing how upset he just was Adam.

"Well if we're going to church tomorrow I've got lots to do. And we all need baths."

"Rachel!" Lou Anne completely forgot about treading lightly as she sounded as if she would never be able to play again.

"Lou Anne," Ben said sharply. "Don't yell."

"Sorry Pa," she was quick to apologize. "But I don't need a bath. I'm not that dirty."

"You are seven years old Lou Anne," Ben gave her his full attention while he spoke. "And you know that we bathe every Saturday and go to church on Sunday. We have been doing it since you were born."

"Yes Sir," she stuck her lower lip out.

"It's not that bad Lou Anne," Ben shook his head, trying to hide the smile on his face with his coffee cup.

"That's what you think. For me, it's downright awful."

After dinner, while Rachel got the tub ready for bathing and Joe and Lou Anne washed the dishes, Ben went out in search of his son. It took a while, not to find him in any of the usual places like the barn, porch, or corral, and instead, he found him out back behind the house sitting under a tree leaning against the trunk.

"Adam," Ben spoke, getting his attention.

Adam started to stand, knowing it was expected, at least if you were in trouble, in which he figured he was.

"Sit down son," Ben motioned for him to make himself comfortable. "I'm not going to lecture." He said before taking a seat next to him.

An air of silence filtered between them Ben trying to come up with the right words that would not only show his remorse but also the explanation as to why they were both to blame for why they were there now with a feeling of contempt between them.

Adam wasn't about to speak, figuring he said enough at the dinner table and that hadn't ended well, at least he didn't expect it to. Not buying the fact that he wasn't in store for a lecture or some sort of trouble.

"I owe you an apology Adam," Ben broke the silence. "I'm worried about Kate and it was wrong of me to get on to you like that. You've never balked from your responsibility and have always taken care of your siblings."

Adam still didn't say anything and instead, he just responded with a nod of acknowledgment.

"That being said," Ben knew he had to remember his fatherly duty. "That didn't give you call to speak to me disrespectfully."

"I know Pa, and I'm sorry." Adam didn't think there was anything further he could say but he was trying to think of something.

Adam however didn't get a chance with Ben continuing.

"I don't normally overlook disrespect without handing out discipline as you know. But I'm going to, considering I'm partially to blame for this. I shouldn't have blamed you. I'm not a perfect father and unfortunately, you are usually the one to experience my lack thereof. It's the price you pay for being the oldest. A lot of times I hold you to a higher standard than the others because of that and I'm sorry."

Again, a realm of silence spread between them. Ben said all he could say and left it entirely up to Adam on how he would choose to respond.

"Truce," Adam held a hand out to him.

"Truce," Ben followed suit. "Now how bout a game of checkers while we wait for our turn in the tub?"

"Sure Pa," Adam smiled.

It had been at least half an hour since Ben left the house and he couldn't help but notice how quiet the house seemed at least from the front porch, where they were now.

"Wonder how Rachels fairing with Lou Anne?" Ben wondered, knowing that by now the water had been heated and at least one of his offspring should be washing the week's dirt, grime, and sweat away. "It's too quiet."

"That's because they drowned each other."

"That's not funny," Ben shook his head.

"Maybe, maybe not," Adam shrugged. "But you have to admit Lou Annes a force to reckon with. And if I'm reading Rachel right. Which I think I am. She won't back down easy."

"She's a Cartwright the same as the rest of us. No reason for her not to be." Ben knew he and each of his children were that way. Some more than others and some had to be riled first. But they were all a force to reckon with.

"I know I need a bath." Adam knew he had done a fair amount of work that week. And work brought sweat which led to odor. He was always careful to wash up as much he could on the daily, but it wasn't like a full submersion. During the summer and even late spring he would take a sip in the creek but it was too close to winter for that now.

"You and me both, boy," Ben agreed, placing a hand on his son's shoulder as they neared the front door.

"But I can't help but agree with Lou Anne."

"You?" Ben looked at him surprised. Knowing getting his eldest to bathe had never been a problem. In fact, it was the other way around. He was the one that stay relaxing in the tub till the water turned cold.

"For different reasons," he clarified. "I'm a little tired."

"Again," Ben smirked. "You and me both."

XXXXXXXX

Sunday morning came early, the sun was just coming up from behind the clouds and Ben moaned when he realized what time it was. It was a little later than he usually arose, then again he didn't have an easy night and it was beginning to show on his face. After checking on the two children that kept him up that night, Ben stared at his reflection in the glass of his room.

"What are you doing?" Rachel woke to him filling the washbasin on the dresser.

"Thinking about trying to shave," Ben ran a hand over his grizzled face. "Haven't had much time to do that or sleep. Maybe when my kids are grown I'll get a full night's sleep."

"Don't count on it. You'll probably worry about them more then. Wondering how and what they are doing. And we still have a long way to go till then. I have a feeling those younger three are going to pose quite a challenge."

"I hate to say it, but I think you're right." Ben proceeded with lathering his face with soap before taking his straight blade razor to the end of his sideburn to begin the stretch downward.

"You could use a haircut too," she observed.

"If I ever get a chance to go into town again I will. But at the rate, I'm going with kids and the ranch it's going to be awhile."

"No matter, I can cut your hair.

"That'll come in handy with my lot. That Joe, his hair is so unruly it's difficult to do much of anything with."

"That'll be a battle I'm sure."

"It will," Ben let on that she was on the right track with her thinking. "He hates haircuts."

"Probably because he has to be still for so long."

"That's one of the reasons."

Rachel stretched before letting out a yawn, knowing she needed to start the day. Unfortunately, the only way for her to do that was to get out of bed.

"Best I better start getting ready for church," Rachel reluctantly crawled out of bed. "Have you checked on Kate and Hoss yet this morning?"

"Kates running a fever but at least she's not vomiting and thankfully still sleeping."

"Thank God for small mercies," she breathed a sigh of relief.

Hoss is up but I told him to stay resting in bed. Said his foot wasn't bothering him unless he moved it around a lot."

"And his back?" Rachel decided to make the bed before proceeding with getting dressed.

"About the same as last night but said he slept better after I got him the hot water bottle."

"Did you get any sleep last night?" Rachel knew he had been up and down so many times that night it wasn't long before she lost track of when he was or wasn't in bed.

"Little bit. Kate was restless and couldn't sleep. Probably from the fever."

"And Hoss?"

"Hoss was hurting quite a bit. But it was too early to give him any more of the medicine Paul left. So I had to try and make him comfortable with other ways."

"Hence the hot water bottle," she interpreted.

"That, a liniment rubdown and a glass of warm milk. I had to go out to the barn for the liniment, then back up the stairs for the rubdown. I had hoped that would help so I went back to bed. I think I got about an hour of sleep before he called again complaining about still hurting. I suggested we give it a few more minutes and he just try to relax. So I went back downstairs to heat a glass of milk. Took that back up the stairs and he drained it. Again I suggested he try to sleep. He agreed so I went back to bed. This time he waited for two hours before calling me. That was when I suggested the hot water bottle which I couldn't find so I went back downstairs to heat some water and dug around some more for the water bottle. Which I finally found 15 minutes later."

"Poor thing," Rachel wrapped her arms around him.

"I'll be fine," his wife's arms wrapped around him seemed to give him strength from within.

"I was talking about Hoss," she slapped him teasingly.

"Well as long as you are feeling sorry for Hoss. You might as well as add Kate to that list. Because when I wasn't up with Hoss, I was up with Kate."

"I really thought she was doing better," Rachel sounded concerned.

"So did I," Ben took a seat on the edge of the bed before rubbing a hand through his hair.

"I don't know if it's the fever making her restless but I thought heard something. And as usual, when I hear something in the middle of the night I first check on the kids and then move on to the downstairs, after that I move on to the yard." Ben told her the usual process so she would understand where he was coming from.

"Anyways, after not finding her in her room, I started to worry and went looking for her. I found her downstairs by the fire reading. She said she was tired but couldn't sleep. So I took her back to bed and sat with her till she fell asleep doing the same thing I used to do when she was little and couldn't sleep. I would rub small circles around her back till eventually, she would fall asleep. It never took long unlike last night."

"You did have a long night!" Rachel felt bad that her husband had been left to take care of everything on his own and got very little sleep.

"Why didn't you wake me?" I would have helped you."

"I guess I've been doing it for so long on my own I'm just used to it."

"I know, but things are different now. I'm your wife and want to help care for my stepchildren."

"I know. And I love you for it," he kissed her. "But you just looked so beautiful sleeping there. I didn't have the heart to wake you."

"Do you want me to stay home from church so you can sleep?" She offered. Knowing that if he stayed home alone he would be back at it tending to the needs of his children the same as before always being careful to put their well-being before anything or anyone.

"You take the kids and go on," he declined. "I'll be fine."

"Adam can take the kids or we can all stay behind," she gave another suggestion.

"Or we can just stick with our original decision and you go with the three that aren't sick."

"You are so hard-headed," Rachel shook her head before letting out a long sigh.

"I'm a Cartwright," he made an excuse. "It comes with the territory."

Less than an hour later and all but Hoss and Kate were either downstairs or out doing morning chores. Lou Anne out tending to the chickens. Rachel in the kitchen, Adam sitting in his usual seat in the main room brushing the dust off his boots before church, and Ben helping Little Joe with his string tie.

"Here's the eggs," Lou Anne came in carrying a wicker basket full of them. "Straight out from under the chicken's rears."

"Lou Anne," Ben said with a warning tone.

"What?" Lou Anne obviously didn't see anything wrong with her statement.

"Don't talk like that." He looked away from his progress with the tie just long enough to make eye contact with her.

"I wouldn't if I didn't have to take care of the chickens."

"You wouldn't if I washed your mouth out with soap either."

Lou Anne didn't say anything but she did stick her tongue out at the thought of it, having far too many experiences with the distasteful stuff they made and kept in the kitchen.

"Breakfast is ready," Rachel interrupted their conversation coming in from the kitchen her hands baring a bowl full of cornmeal mush.

"What's this?" Lou Anne picked up a spoonful of the thick yellow goop.

"Eat it, it's mush, it's good for you."

"Hop Sing never made us eat this before," Lou Anne pushed the bowl away.

Rachel was about to say something but was interrupted by Adam.

"We used to have this out on the trail," he recalled. "Remember Pa?"

Ben nodded. "It was cheap and filling. Wasn't bad tasting either."

"Sometimes we'd eat it right out of the pot when we were in a hurry to get on the trail. And then wrestle over who'd get the last spoonful," Adam recalled with a smile before turning to Ben. "You always let me win."

"You were a tough little five-year-old," Ben slapped him on the back playfully.

"Those were the good ol days," Adam looked over at the two siblings teasingly. "No kid brother or sister to pester you."

"Haha, very funny."

"Rachel," Lou Anne looked at the woman. "Pa's not eating this, how come we got to?"

"Your father's grown and was up half the night with your big brother."

"Now Adam, what have you been told about keeping Pa up at night?"

Adam who was no longer paying attention to the conversation looked up when he heard his name. It being a surprise to everyone that he didn't come back with some snappy retort.

"What's the matter with you?" Joe sized his brother up.

"Adam, are you feeling alright?" Rachel worried that they were about to have another member of the family ill.

"Fine ma'am," Adam took a sip from his coffee. "Just tired I guess."

"What do you have to be tired for?" Joe said sarcastically. "You don't do nothing around here."

"Anything," Adam corrected his grammar. "And I'm overworked for picking up the slack around here with Kate and Hoss being laid up."

"Well today's Sunday," Ben intervened before the two got at it. "And you can do what you please after service."

"What do you plan to do son?"

Adam cleared his throat when she referred to him as son but knew he needed to respond.

"Stay as far away from the two of them as possible," he pointed at Joe and Lou Anne across the table. "I've seen that look in their eye before. And it's the look that always gets Hoss into trouble because they drag him into it. And with him out I'm the only one left. The difference however is, I want to be able to sit comfortably and avoid restriction to the yard. Excuse me," he took one last swallow of his coffee before scooting his chair back from the table. "I'm going to hitch up the team."

"We'll be ready in ten minutes." Rachel knew they would need to hurry if they didn't want to be late.

"Yes'm," Adam pulled his jacket on before reaching for his hat. "I'll be waiting."

Rachel and Ben had just started a quick conversation regarding Kate and Hoss and what needed to be done with their care. Ben assuring her that he would take their breakfast up to them just as soon as he finished his coffee and he saw the rest of his family off to church. Their conversation however was soon interrupted by his remaining two children still at the table.

"If we're going to have to eat this," this time it was Joe's turn to complain about the mush. "I can't wait for Hop Sing to get back."

"Neither can I," Rachel huffed, growing tired of the complaints. "He can have the cooking and I'll let him listen to your meal complaints."

"Oh no," Joe said quickly, his eyes wide and serious. "You don't complain to Hop Sing. He threatens to go back to China and we don't want that."

"Well, maybe I'll threaten to go back to San Francisco."

"Can I help you pack?" Joe didn't miss a beat and spoke just as soon as she finished her sentence.

"Joseph!" Ben's tone was enough to make Joe back down.

"It was a joke," he was quick to cover. Even holding his hands up in surrender to make a point.

"It better be or you won't be sitting in church."

"Now Pa, you know we don't have that much time. Rachel said we had to leave soon."

"Oh, I'll make time for that," Ben assured him.

"I got to go help Adam with the team," Joe was quick to excuse himself from the table and make a break for the door, grabbing his hat and jacket on the way out and with a speed they didn't usually see from the boy.

XXXXXXXX

Filing into the church, the four Cartwright's took their usual place near the front of the church. Rachel started to take a seat down the aisle but was stopped when she felt a hand wrap around her arm. Surprised, she turned around to face her eldest stepson who leaned over to whisper a word of warning in her ear.

"It's best if one of us sits between Joe and Lou Anne during service."

Rachel's mouth formed an oh, and she nodded in understanding before scooting further down the aisle to give room for her three stepchildren so Adam could take a seat between the two children. Figuring it would be best to let Adam take the lead since he knew the sort of behavior they exhibited in service and knew how they were typically handled her not having the opportunity to experience much without their father there despite the fact her not having any idea how she would handle a disruption if they presented one in church.

She didn't think they would cause a disruption, both children being unusually quiet on the trip over to the church from where they rode on the backseat of the buckboard. But Adams worse kept coming back to her that he had seen it before. One minute they were serene little angels and the next the complete opposite.

Then again, he had been wrong before and this was one of those times.

And even though neither child felt like it, they stood for the singing of the hymns. Knowing it was either that or be jerked to their feet by their elder brother. After hymns and the passing of the offering plates, the reverend began his sermon.

Adam wasn't sure how long he had been preaching but he didn't think it had even been 15 minutes when his baby sister crawled in his lap complaining she didn't feel well.

Overhearing the child, Rachel exchanged concerned glances with her eldest stepson.

"I don't either," Joe leaned his head on her shoulder.

Rachel's eyes widened at his actions, knowing that not once since she had arrived had he even come close to doing such a thing.

Adam seemed to understand her surprise and it was maybe only a minute later before they both sensed what needed to be done. Neither spoke and instead, Adam stood, Lou Anne still in his arms filed out of the church, Rachel and Little Joe on his heels.

"Pa isn't going to believe this," he wrapped the little girl in his jacket before lifting her to her seat in the buckboard.

He was just about to climb upfront so they could head home but stopped short, remembering a time before when Joe feigned sick so they could get out of church early. In the end, Pa found out and it wasn't a pretty picture.

"Just to be on the safe side," he stood in front of his youngest brother. "You're not faking are you?"

Joe's answer came lightning quick as he leaned over the side of the buckboard and lost his breakfast all over his brother's pants and boots.

"Augh," a disgusted look crossed his face. Appearing as if he would lose his breakfast at any moment.

"Joe," he complained.

"Sorry," the boy mumbled.

"Yeah," Adam knew it wasn't his fault he got sick. "Me too." He proceeded to take his seat. Now in a much bigger hurry to get home so he could get out of his soiled. The scent had long ago reached his nostrils and he knew the trip home would never seem so long.

"I'll get those clothes soaking as soon as we get home," Rachel told him.

"Just don't let anyone turn them pink."

"I don't think I'll have to worry about that again. You're going to need to take another bath too."

"Two baths in two days. Just what I wanted to do." Adam wasn't looking forward to another washing. But that was the best way to get the odor off and knew he wouldn't have a choice. At least if he wanted to live in the house. Knowing there was no way Rachel would allow him to sit at the dinner table let alone darken the front door.

Ben was surprised, to say the least when the remainder of his family arrived home early. What surprised him even more to say the least was to find that two more of his children had taken ill and one appeared as if he wanted to take a dive into the creek regardless of the weather.

"I'll take care of the team," Ben could tell Adam was nowhere near the mood for that. Especially considering the first thing he did as soon as he jumped down was pull his boots off.

"I'll take care of the children," Rachel was quick to usher the two children across the yard.

"I'll take care of myself," Adam hobbled over to the washhouse. His pants already sticking to his legs.

"I'll bring you some fresh clothes in later," Ben called behind him.

"I'm going to need them!" Adam picked up the pace.

"Don't stay in too long! Lunch is ready!" Ben reminded him.

"Go ahead, I'm not hungry."

Ben dropped the reigns of the team and crossed the yard in record time to reach his boy.

"You sick too?"

"What makes you ask that?"

"Since when have you passed up a meal?" Ben looked at him questioningly. "I know you're not Hoss. But that doesn't me you skip many meals."

"I'm fine," Adam assured him.

"I'll get one of the hands to take care of the team and make you some of Hop Sings tea just the same."

"Pa," Adam tried again. "I said I was fine."

"And you're going to drink it."

Adam wanted to complain, disliking the taste just as much as his siblings did but he wouldn't say a word. The secret was, he was almost certain he was sick. He was unusually tired with a pounding headache and he had a feeling he was running a fever to boot but again, he wouldn't say a word.

He had been relaxing in the warm water for what seemed like 10 minutes. For someone who wasn't looking forward to their second dip, it surprised him how much he was enjoying it. Then again, this time it was different, this time he didn't want to do much of anything else. Except maybe read or sleep.

"Here's your clothes," Ben pulled him out of his relaxed state. "And your tea."

"Thanks for the clothes. As for the tea, not so much."

"Drink it all," Ben pointed at him.

"You enjoy torturing me," Adam grumbled under his breath.

"Are you sure you don't want anything to eat?"

"Not with this," he gestured with his tea.

"You wouldn't have to drink it if you ate something," Ben tried to persuade him.

"I'm not going to starve to death missing one meal. And before you ask I'm not sick." Adam felt guilty when the last sentence left his mouth. He had just done something he hadn't done in years, lie to his Pa. On the other hand, he figured if it kept him from worrying about him it was worth it. He had enough to worry about and tend to on his own with Hoss hurt and the others sick. Thinking that the last thing he needed was for him to be out of commission for a couple of days.

"Do you need any more hot water?" Rachel came in without knocking practically drowning her stepson's guilt, that was not even a concern anymore.

Adam responded in turn by ducking under the water, submerging both himself and teacup under the water.

Rachel was quick to flee the room, not only not wanting to embarrass the boy further but also not wanting him to drown.

Seeing the boy hadn't shown any signs of immersion Ben rolled up a sleeve, reached into the tub, and pulled him back into a sitting position.

"You can come up for air now."

Adam came up sputtering, spitting water, and shaking the water from his head.

"Is she gone?" He choked.

"You sure got out of drinking that tea," Ben teased.

"That wasn't my intention," Adam picked up the floating cup before handing it to his father.

"I'll make you some more," Ben started for the door.

"Can't I just have coffee instead?"

"After the tea." Ben left the wash house for the kitchen.

"I tried," Adam muttered under his breath, reaching for a towel to dry off.

Ben found his wife near the stove, placing a heaping scoop of stew into her and her husband's bowls before removing a pan of cornbread from the oven.

"I think you just scarred my son for life," Ben came in with a smirk on his face.

"I didn't know he wouldn't react that way," Rachel felt bad for embarrassing him so badly. "You were in there."

"It's a little different for me. I'm his father. He doesn't have anything I haven't seen before. Since his mother died when he was born I had to do everything on my own for most of his life. I changed his diapers, bathed him, caught him skinny dipping, and occasionally bared his bottom for a spanking when the situation called for it."

"Speaking of Adam, is he eating dinner?"

"He said no," Ben shook his head.

"Do you think he's sick?"

"He said no to that too."

"Surely it's not because Joe threw up on him?" Rachel looked at him questioningly.

"I don't think so," Ben highly doubted that would be the reason his eldest refused a meal.

"He's difficult to read sometimes isn't he?" She interpreted.

"You have no idea."

Sunday afternoons were by far the favorite day of the week for many of the Cartwright's. Sundays were meant for taking it easy. A day that the only chores needing to be done were those that involved caring for the stock and bringing in the wood. Adam usually spent those days relaxing by the lake, either fishing or reading. Sometimes he and Hoss would go hunting, other times he and Kate would spend some time with their friends Mark and Mary Brady. But this time, he chose not to leave the house and relaxed near the fireplace. The house was relatively quiet, with the four youngest upstairs resting leaving the downstairs living area almost vacant.

"I'm going to do something I haven't done in I don't know how long," Ben set his book on the coffee table in front of him before standing.

Adam and Rachel looked up questioningly and Ben continued.

"Take a nap. I have a feeling I'm going to need it adding two more sick kids in the mix."

"Hoss that hard on you last night?" Adam was enjoying the quiet in his favorite red chair with a cup of coffee in one hand and the book he was currently enthralled in the other.

"That's an understatement," Ben yawned just thinking about it as he started for the stairs.

"I think I'll join you," Rachel followed. Knowing that if they had a difficult night with all four children she would be needed.

"The boys sick," Ben gestured at the settee where Adam laid when the two reached the landing.

"How can you tell?"

"He's asleep. He never sleeps during the day."

"I'll check for a fever," Rachel descended the remainder of the stairs before crossing over to the settee and placing a kiss on his forehead.

"That's the way Marie used to do it," Ben recalled.

"I know he'd never be comfortable for me to do it if he was awake. But my mother always said it was more accurate."

"What's the verdict anyways?" Ben was moving on to the main point.

"Afraid so," she gave him an encouraging smile. Knowing things were about to get a lot harder for them now that Adam was joining his siblings.

Ben exhaled a long breath, running a hand through his hair, thinking.

"I knew it."

"What are we going to do?"

"If I knew that, I'd be doing it." Ben dropped into a chair.

"Should we wake him and get him up to bed?" Rachel had to admit she was at a complete loss now that they were five down.

"No," Ben shook his head. "He's fine here."

"Then what are you thinking about?"

"I'm thinking of all the chores I'm going to have to do and trying to decide if I should get started now or later."

"I'll help," she volunteered.

"You can take care of the chickens," he winked at her.

"Lou Annes least favorite job," she thought about it. "Guess I'll figure out why."

An hour later found Ben and Rachel out doing chores. Along with Adam who had awoken and gone out to lend a hand.

"Adam," Rachel caught her eldest stepson at the woodpile, ax coming down hard on a log.

"What are you doing out here?" She hurried over from the chicken pen.

"Chores," Adam brought the ax down in full swing once again. This time the noise brought his father out from the barn.

"Adam!" Ben raised his voice to get his son's attention.

"Pa?" Adam leaned the ax against the wall of the house.

"Why didn't you wake me?"

"Your sick, I don't want you out here."

"I'm fine," Adam ignored his concerns as he started to pile the wood in his arms.

"You and I both know you're sick."

"Pa," Adam tried. "I'm not that bad off. Besides, there are too many chores to leave for just you and Rachel to worry about that now."

"You let me worry about the chores," Ben pointed at him. "I'll get some of that hands to pitch in. The only thing I want you to worry about is getting some rest."

"Pa," Adam complained, the pile of wood in his arms growing heavy.

"Get inside, now." Ben's voice was slow but stern, as he took the wood from him, taking it upon himself to carry it in while escorting his son inside.

Adam sighed but gave in, not exactly feeling up to swinging the ax anyways. His body was aching and the pounding of the ax didn't do anything to help the pounding in his head.

Adam returned to his place on the settee before picking his feet up to relax and lifting the book he left on the coffee table to return where he left off.

Ben stoked the fire, adding another log to the smoldering ashes.

"Need anything?" He asked, turning away from the fireplace.

"I'm a little hungry. Is there any stew left?"

"Plenty," Ben was pleased he was willing to try and eat something. "I'll get you a bowl."

"I can get it," he offered.

"You stay put," Ben tried to sound serious, but it didn't match the expression on his face.

Ben returned a short time later. Carrying a bowl of hot stew and glass of water to the table before heading outside to get back to work.

Adam had just started to blow on the stew a few times in an attempt to cool it when Rachel came in, closing the door roughly behind her.

"Adam," she announced. "I'm shooting the rooster."

Adam laughed aloud, thinking how much that sounded like his youngest sister Lou Anne. Stifling the laugh when Rachel threw him a look.

"Why does everybody want to kill the rooster?"

"He chased me and then tried to peck me."

"He's not that bad," he laughed. "You're just not used to him."

"And I'm not going to get used to him."

"Rachel?" Adam said carefully. "Do you know how to handle a rifle?" The burning question filtered his mind.

"Not especially," she answered truthfully. "But I think I can handle it against a rooster."

"Those things kick pretty hard when you're not used to it," Adam knew he couldn't tell her no outright. So he decided to go about it another way.

"I'm sure I can handle it." Rachel ignored his concern.

Adam rubbed his head, slightly from the pain and slightly based on the fact he was struggling to convince her.

"You know we have to have a rooster right?"

Rachel sighed, knowing he was right. But that didn't mean she was happy about it. And it showed by the way she plopped into the chair across from him.

"How are you feeling?" She poured herself a cup of coffee.

"I've been worse," he admitted. "But to answer your question, my head and throat hurt." He tried to stifle a cough by clearing his throat.

"And a cough," his mannerism didn't go unnoticed by the new mother.

"Maybe a little one."