Hours later, Adam returns home to find it peculiar quiet Ben and Hoss weren't home yet.

After contemplating about the fight with Joe, he knew that he had to talk to Joe. He walks into Joe's room and was surprise to find it empty.

Adam then walks out of the room thinking that Joe had gone after Ben and Hoss.

Adam feeling tired he walks across the hall and to his room. He notices a paper on his dresser and looks at it.

Dear Adam,

You got your wish you don't have to worry about me being an annoying pest anymore. I know you don't love me or want me around anymore and that's fine with me. I don't need you for an older brother I have Hoss. I hope you have fun at college especially since you'll be far away from me seeing how that's what you probably like the most about going to college.

I'm sorry I broke your knife and that I have been nothing but a nuisance to you. Tell Pa and Hoss that I love them and that I am sorry for leaving but I rather be out in the middle of nowhere than to be in the same house with someone who hates me.

It was nice knowing you Adam I hope you enjoy being far away from me.

Sincerely,

Little Joe

After reading the note Adam was alarmed with fear and guilt. He runs down the stairs just as Ben walks in the house. "Pa something horrible has happen and it's my fault" said Adam panicky.

Ben looks at him concerned. "What wrong Adam?"

Adam on the verge of breaking down shows Ben the note. "Joe ran away because of me" said Adam full of guilt.

"He's convinced that I don't love him and that I don't want him around me anymore" said Adam worriedly.

"Why would he think that?" asked Ben confused. "I don't know Pa all I know is that he ran away and it's my fault" said Adam.

"What are we doing standing around here we need to be out looking for him" said Ben he rushes over to the door and was about to put on his gun belt and hat when Adam stops him.

"Pa I think I should be the one to go find him. It's my fault that he ran away and I think I should be the one to go fix this" said Adam determined.

Ben looks up at his son knowing that he was right."You better get some food for you and Joe" said Ben. Adam gives him a small smile and was about to walk away when Ben gently grabs his arm.

"Be careful son" said Ben concerned. "I will Pa don't worry I'll find him" said Adam reassuringly.