Wrapped Around Her Little Finger
From the Adam Cartwright, Father of Five Series: I do not write for Bonanza but love to pretend~Thankyou!
Warning:This chapter may hurt you more than it will hurt me~OTK...
By: Carolynjames
Someone has to talk with Adam about Little Molly's behavior. Who will be brave enough to tell him?
"But Daddy, I'm tired." Molly whined after being told to pick up her blocks.
"Can I have my dolly now?"
"Molly, Mrs. Drake told you to pick up your blocks several times. She also said, you could not have your dolly until you do", Big sister Kate insisted.
"Now look Molly, do what Mrs. Drake has told you. I'll hold dolly for you while you finish your work", Adam offered sweetly.
"Oh' Daddy, I'm so very tired. There's so many blocks and my hands can't pick them all up."
"Alright sweetie, how about dolly and I help you?"
Adam handed Molly her doll and began picking up. Kate watched from across the room as Adam finished picking up the blocks while Molly sat on the floor playing with her doll. Kate gave her sister a glare and turned to walk into the kitchen.
This scenario was much like many others with Adam and Molly, as of lately. Her governess, Mrs. Elizabeth Drake, was well aware of the child-like manipulation at work. As was her sister. To their concern, Molly's behavior seemed to be increasing. Molly began prompting Adam to get out of many responsibilities and even sometimes trouble.
At first, Mrs. Drake thought it was a faze. She took into consideration that Molly was just five and a half years old. Elizabeth was uncertain how to approach Adam, knowing him to be very sensitive to criticism. In order to maintain her professionalism she would need to address him of the situation and soon. Once again, her nerves were getting the best of her.
Molly was turning six and Adam was planning to buy her a pony. Elizabeth found Adam's process in picking out the perfect pony, so endearing. "How could a man whom took on five children, in just a year in a half, be such an excellent father", she thought. "He was a natural. But sometimes a father can love too much and not see his own harm."
Elizabeth worked with Molly on setting the table, trying to hurry the job along knowing Adam would be home soon with his surprise. Unfortunately, Molly was not cooperating...
"Molly, you need to finish setting the table for Hopsing. Here Dear, place the knife and spoon on this side and the fork on the other", Mrs. Drake politely guided her.
"Why do I have to set the table?" Molly protested.
"Because Molly, it is your job. We all have responsibilities as a family, and setting the table is yours."
"It's hard, Mrs. Drake. I would rather let Kate do it. She set the table all of the time before you came."
"I know she did, Molly. It wouldn't be fair to ask Kate do all the work. You are part of this family and old enough to help. Now, let's get back to setting the table. You may choose the color of napkins for our dinner tonight. Do you like red or blue?"
Molly sighed and folded the red napkin placing it beside the plate. She was beginning to resent Mrs. Drake for pushing her so much. She felt the urge to dig in her heals every time Elizabeth asked her to do anything.
Just as she received another correction from her governess, the front door flew open. Catching both ladies by surprise, Adam leaped in the doorway trying to contain his excitement.
"Hello Molly! You're just the girl I was looking for." Would you happen to know anyone who was having a birthday this Saturday? A very special package has come for a certain birthday girl."
The very handsome Adam exchanged glances with Elizabeth. He smiled with a proud grin and winked.
"Daddy, you're teasin' me. You know I'm turning six tomorrow." Molly ran over to Adam and jumped into his arms.
Adam twirled her around and sealed a kiss on the cheek. "Yes, pumpkin, I'm teasing you. "Now, if you are finished working with Mrs. Drake, I would like to take you to see a surprise?"
"Oh' yes, Daddy. Please O' Please can I see it?"
"Mrs. Drake?"
"Well, Adam", Molly was almost finished with a very important job. Can I send her out in just a minute, as soon as she's done? It should only take a second." Elizabeth suggested, hoping Adam would understand some how that she was trying to motivate Molly and follow thru on her instructions.
"Sure Elizabeth. Send her out to the barn as soon as she's done."
Adam put his hat back on and turned towards the door. Outside he met up with the other children to show them the prize pony.
Molly's head began to boil as she heard Adam outside with the others. She pulled in her fist and clenched her teeth towards Mrs. Drake. How dare she interfere with she and Adam.
"Molly, come quickly and finish your work. I'm sure you're excited to see the suprise!" Elizabeth said with enthusiasim.
"No! I want to go with my Daddy, Now. I can finish my job when I get back", Molly stamped her foot and ran out the open door towards Adam.
"Molly,... Molly... come back here."
Elizabeth headed towards the door and found Molly scooped up in Adam's arms already walking towards the barn. With a big sigh, she closed the door behind her. She wanted to go out and confront Molly with Adam but felt it would only spoil Adam's surprise and she didn't want to sound petty. So instead, she finished setting the table herself.
"Hm Hem", Ben cleared his throat as he walked near the dining room... "Need some help Elizabeth?" Ben motioned for her to hand him the plates.
"Oh' Ben," she said in surprise," I didn't know you had come into the room."
"I'm sorry, Elizabeth, I didn't mean to frighten you. I've been hear long enough to hear the conversation with you and Molly."
"Oh' you heard that?" Elizabeth began to panic in fear of looking inadequate.
"Yes, I heard." Ben had been watching the interaction take place from his study.
"Molly seems to be struggling with her chores around the house. I've also noticed her lack of respect towards you... Have you talked with Adam about this? Certainly you must know he would not approve of Molly's behavior."
Elizabeth felt responsible. "I know I should talk to Adam about this Ben, but I'm apprehensive. He's such a good father and loves his children. The children work hard and have good manners. It is true that Molly is refusing obediance lately, especially when Adam is present. Although I do see this behavior in children her age from time to time. I believe she is testing me.
"Meanwhile, some of the children have complained to Adam about her behavior and he seems to disregard them by saying,' it's just her young age'. He reminded John and Kate, just yesterday, to be more patient with her...Well Ben, I guess that's what I am trying to do too."
"Do you believe what Molly needs is more patience Mrs. Drake? Maybe I'm just getting old and stuffy but I think she needs somthing else..." Ben expresed as he coughed into the fist of his hand.
"I understand, my eldest son can be a little hard headed and intimidating to speak with at times. Especially, on sensitive subjects like his little girl." Ben placed the last plate on the table and noticed Elizabeth's discomfort.
"Please have a seat over on the couch with me Mrs. Drake. I would like to hear from you further on this matter." Elizabeth followed Ben to the couch on the brink of tears.
And as if the flood gates had burst, the young governess began...
"I'm concerned about Molly. She's such a sweet girl, Ben. I do believe Adam is unaware of the spell that she has on him. One look of discomfort in her eyes brings Adam to his knees. He often saves her from the distress of a simple task. She convinces herself that she can not do a job and just stops. I've tried to be more consistent, offer creative ways to approach the job and she fusses more than anything. I don't believe I'm asking too much of her."
"You are very wise to see this Elizabeth. You are right about Molly. It is important that she learns responsibilities and that she knows she can help her family in many ways. As far as Adam and Molly's behavior...I've known some who would call that...Daddy's wrapped around her little finger".
Elizabeth nodded with a laugh. "Maybe it's time I try and talk to Adam. Thanks Ben, for listening and showing your support. I want to work hard and do what Adam has chosen me for. Some days I don't know if I am doing anything right."
"You have saved us all Mrs. and we are all very happy with your hard work with the children. Dear, why don't you let me talk with Adam tonight? I can introduce him to the subject at hand and then you can speak with him further, tomorrow. That is, if you wouldn't mind my interference?"
"Thank you Ben, I appreciate your help. Maybe it will be easier for Adam to hear, coming from his father."
"Perhaps, my son can be very obstinate as well. Let's just hope luck is on my side." Both smiled.
"Shall we have a peek at this magnificent pony now."
Ben took Elizabeth by the arm and proceeded out the door.
Adam was grinning ear to ear as Ben and Elizabeth approached the family and new pony.
"Isn't she a butte?" Adam said as his hands ran down the horse's neck. "Her previous owners had a family of four children who are too big to ride now. A very docile Lady is she not, Pa?"
"Fine animal indeed son. This pony will be just right for my precious granddaughter." Ben leaned over to Molly with a kiss atop her forhead, as she sat on her new pony.
"What do you think Miss Molly? Do you love this new pony?"
"Oh' Yes, Granddad. She's just for me. Daddy said so."
"Yes, I see. and What will you name your pony, Molly?"
"I'm going to call her Bunny."
"Oh' that's a lovely name". Kate said sweetly to her sister.
"Can Jack and I ride Bunny, Dad? Michael asked.
"No son, 'fraid not. You're much too big for this little Lady."
"I wouldn't want to ride that 'ol pony anyway", Jack said.
Adam and Ben laughed as Ben ruffled his hair.
"Doesn't matter anyhow Jack. Daddy said she's all mine so you couldn't ride her if you wanted to," Molly sassed.
Ben looked at his granddaughter and questioned, "He did, did he? Well, Did Daddy also tell you that taking care of your own pony is a very important job?"
"But I don't know how to take care of her". Molly's bottom lip came out as she pet the pony's soft -mane."
"That's okay, pumpkin. Daddy will teach you," Adam said to Molly as he lifted her off the pony. "Let's go show your pony into the barn now shall we."
"Adam, I'd like to remind everyone that it's time for dinner," Elizabeth stated from the porch.
"Aww Daddy, I don't wanna eat. I want to stay here with my Pony". Molly protested giving Elizabeth a resentful glare.
"I know sweetie but Hopsing is ready for us. It wouldn't be polite to keep him waiting. I'm sure you will have time after dinner to care for your pony."
Adam reached out her hand to encourage Molly into the house.
"No, I 'm not going." Molly yelled and pulled away from her father.
She grabbed hold of her pony and climbed onto the saddle only to ride a few feet forward before Adam grabbed hold of the riens.
"Whoa there fine Lady. Now don't get all riled up firecracker".
Adam pulled Molly down off the horse and gave a soft pat to her bottom.
Ben gave Adam a look of concern. Adam spoke to his daughter," Come now Molly, we can come back after dinner to see your pony."
Molly had no time to disagree as Adam scooped her up into his arms and walked inside.
All eyes hung wide open as the two walked inside. Ben knew it was time he must have that talk with his son.
Ben saught out to find his son that evening after the children were in bed sleeping. As he expected, Adam was out on his balcony looking at the summer-lit sky.
"Beautiful night isn't it Son?
"That it is, Pa. Have a seat and join me."
The two men sat down overlooking the ponderosa pines.
"Did you see her face today, Pa? Molly loves that pony. She jumped right in that saddle, just like I knew she would."
"She sure did Adam. And a good pick of a horse too son. I think you should be proud of your choice. Nice and gentle enough for a litte girl."
"I agree. From the moment I saw it, I knew she was the right one for Molly. "
" I see this pony will provide Molly a chance to gain some responsibilities."
"Yes, that's true."
"Adam, I came in to talk with you..." Ben paused.
Adam became more alert and looked to his father, he knew by the tone in his voice Ben had somthing important to say. "Go on Pa, what is it?"
"Well son, it's about Molly. I'm concerned about her growing defiance. She could have gotten hurt tonight, Adam. Jumping on her horse like that. I watched for your reaction and to be quiet frank, it lacked all seriousness. I had to hold myself back from disciplining Molly myself. Her impulsivness could have gotten her injured. Well Adam, the fear of loosing you boys after your mothers died...I just couldn't tollerate recklaceness. Furthermore, she has been skirting much of her responsibilities. I'm sorry for interfering Adam, but we are all a family that must live togethr and to be honest...it's getting hard to live with you and Molly."
Adam looked up at his father with deep confusion.
Ben went on to discuss his concerns for his son and granddaughter as Adam began to shift uncomfortably in his chair.
Finally, he found the words to speak...
"Pa, I'm thoroughly embarrassed. How long has everyone noticed this behavior and why did someone not come to me sooner. I really had know idea things had gotten so out of hand. I thought she needed patience. I can see now where I failed to teach..."
"Now Adam, parenting is a delicate matter. Most times, when a problem arises, it will eventually work itself out with love and guidance. Your right to be patient. In this case, Molly is frequently showing disrespect and difiance to Mrs. Drake and the others around her. Her behavior is getting worse and we need your leadership and support as her father to put an end to it. And besides, I know that it is important to you that Molly is respectful and courteous to others."
" not come to me sooner. And why didn't Elizabeth say something to me? Why hasn't either of you corrected Molly yourselves. Mrs. Drake, should know better to tollerate such behavior from a 6 year old little girl. If she's going to be a good teacher, children should not get away with disrespectful behavior. Now, I do not believe that this is all Molly's fault."
"Adam! Ben said firmly, "Please don't become defensive. And consider the situation before finding critisism. There's no need to find blame in anyone. No one wanted to step on your toes. I believe Elizabeth is doing a fine job and has firmly corrected Molly in the best way she knows how or atleast what you would allow. Son, let's pull together and do what's best for Molly. Just take sometime to think about it."
"I will and you're right about Elizabeth, Pa. She is doing a fine job with the children. Truth be told, I dismissed a few complaints from the older children lately and overlooked her disobediance far too much. I believe I've become quite smittin with a certain little one...a father can only try to resist. Ha~Thank you for talking with me. "
Ben smiled and pats his son on the back, "You know Adam, this reminds me of a young boy who defied a certain new mother, when he didn't think his pa's eyes were on him."
"Ah, Yes. How could I forget. The memory comes back to me too Pa, all too painfully, I'm afraid."
Ben laughed as he walked out of the room...
The morning came too soon rearing its ugly head as Molly refused Mrs. Drake's order to make her bed before going down for breakfast. Big sister Kate had enough of her lil sister's protest.
"Molly did you make your bed this morning? Kate asked.
"Kate, I will do it when I'm done eating." Molly proceded to walk past her sister and down the hall.
"No, Molly. Mrs. Drake said we make our beds before breakfast." Kate jerked Molly by the arm and pulled her back to her bedroom forcefully.
"Don't pull my arm like that", Molly screeched as she stomped on her sisters' foot.
"Oww! You are such a spoiled brat, Molly Rose. Our Mama would never have let you act like this and Papa would have worn you out. You should be ashamed of yourself for acting so naughty all the time. "
Before Molly got a chance to retaliate, Elizabeth stepped into the room.
"Ladies, please stop all this shouting and pull yourselves together." Taking both girls by the upper arm and sitting between them on the bed, the governess demanded to know what all the fuss was about?
Kate tearfully explained the current situation to Mrs. Drake as well as her built up frustrations with her lil sisters behavior. "Mama would not have liked it one bit, Mrs. Drake. She is not acting like a proper young Lady at all..." Kate sobbed as Elizabeth listened. Meanwhile, Molly sat with her arms crossed deffiantely with a big pouting lip.
Adam could overhear the conversation from the hallway and chose not to interupt the girls. Adam approved of the way Elizabeth gave care correction to both girls. He could see that she was trying hard to work with Molly and show sincerity to Kate. He also felt an urgency to fix his lil monster that he help create.
Kate and Elizabeth proceeded out of Molly's bedroom and into the hall.
"Oh, excuse us Adam, I didn't know you were out here." Elizabeth apologized.
"Good morning," Adam began. "No Please accept my apology Mrs. Drake, for not seeing things sooner. I appreciated the way you handled this situation with the girls. Kate, I understand your frustration with Molly, but before your temper gets the best of you, please come and talk to me so I can help."
"If you "would" listen", Kate mumbled.
"Yes, Kate. You tried, and I'm sorry for not listening, please forgive me? I can see the problem now that Molly and I must work out. With that said, I will listen and help, if you come to me?" Adam touched the side of Kate's cheek softly with a smile.
Kate humbly looked up at Adam, "I'm sorry for screaming at Molly this morning and being so harsh with my words too. I'll apologize to her."
Adam nodded, "Thank you Kate, Darlin. I think that would be a great idea. Now, I'm going to have a talk with Molly, and then I'll meet you both downstairs in just few a minutes. Please tell the other's not to wait on us please."
Adam went into Molly's room. The little pumpkin was lying on the floor, with one shoe off and one shoe on while playing with her doll.
"Good morning Molly, sounds like you have had quiet a mornin already and I don't believe the old Rooster has even yet to crow..."
"Good mornin Daddy, everyone's been so grumpy to me this morning."
"Molly, you are to make your bed before coming down for breakfast, and not be playing with dolly. Why is your bed not made?"
"Daddy, my beds so big. My arms can't pull up the covers and it takes me so long to make my bed. My breakfast will be cold before I'm done."
"Sweet heart, you have made this bed many of time. Now, hand me your dolly and I will hold her for you while you make your bed. When you are finished, come down and join the family for breakfast."
Adam did not waiver nor bait to her excuses. Molly frowned and stuck out her lip.
"I don't wanna make my bed. I want to eat downstairs with everyone else."
"Molly Rose, Adam used a firm voice, you will not come out of this room before your bed is made. End of discussion. "
Adam shut the door and proceeded to walk downstairs. Molly opened her door and began to cry as she ran after him. She grabbed at his legs and took hold. Adam pulled his little girl off, ever so gently, then on bended knees looked her in the eyes.
"Daddy told you to stay in your room until you were finished with your bed. Are you finished?"
"No, I don't wanna do it", Molly whined as she cried louder.
Adam took Molly by the hand and walked her back to her bedroom. She continued to cry even louder as her fit turned into a fright. Adam then sat down on her bed and with a most pitiful deep sigh pulled her over his knees.
*Smack*Smack*Smack! He delivered three Firm smacks to her bottom.
Then he waited. Molly's body went boneless and she stopped crying only to hear an occasional sniff sniff.
Adam couldn't help but grin and was glad his little one was face down so as not to see it.
"Daddy" a little voice wispered..."May I get up?"
"Are you threw with your tantrum?"
"Yes sir~sniff sniff"
"Then you may get up." Adam helped his little one off his lap and stood her up to face him. Molly's head hung down until Adam lifted her chin.
She looked at Adam with wide eyes.*Sniff* Whimper*
"Now, young lady, you will do as you're told and make this bed or you will find yourself over my knee once again. Do I make myself clear?"
A hot tear ran down her face as she nodded her head yes.
"Good, and I will stand here to see it complete."
Molly worked quickly to complete her task. Adam tried not to soften. He stayed strong and waited.
Within minutes the pair walked down the stairs to eat.
Everyone was outside doing their morning chores except Adam and Molly. He finished his coffee and read his paper, as Molly ate in silence as she pondred what just took place. Her Daddy Adam had never spanked her before.
"Molly, if you are finished, please take your plate in to Hopsing." Adam's voice remained firm but softer. Molly did as she was told without speaking.
As Molly came out of the kitchen Adam called her back to the table. "Pumpkin, come sit on my lap, we need to talk." Molly immediatly cuddled into Adam.
"Do you know how much I love you, Molly?"
She shook her head as she held her hands in her lap.
"I love you so much that I nearly forgot how important it was that you need to be respectful and responsible to others and yourself. Do you know why, Molly?"
She shook her head, no.
"Well, because you are important and capable. I want you to grow up and share your love and respect with others as you do with me. Because if you share your love, people will love and respect you back. That's very important. It's also very important that you know how to work hard and study hard so that you can do many things. Would you like to do the things your sister does or even Mrs. Drake?"
Molly looked up at Adam and nodded, yes.
"That's right, you will be big like them one day and I suspect you will be doing things that they don't even no how to do."
With that said, Molly smiled.
Adam grinned back. "Molly, do you know why I spanked you?
Molly put her head back down and shook her head, no.
Adam lifted her head up by the chin and said, "It's because I love you. I want you to be a respectful, loveable, intelligent lady one day and I can't allow you to be so sassy. I spanked you to remind you of that you must do as i tell you. I know it's hard to understand but I want you to always remember. I will always love you no matter what."
"I love you too Daddy."
Molly gave Adam a super big hug and kiss. Then jumped down to get her dolly off the table.
"Daddy, Can I go see Bunny, now?"
"Yes Molly. But I have one more thing to tell you. I insist that you to listen and respect Mrs. Drake. She is here to help our family and to help you become a fine young woman. Can you remember to do that?"
Running off to go outside, Molly returned a quick nod to Adam, and sweetly answered "Yes Daddy, sure I can."
"That's my Girl." Adam cleared his throat loudly to get her attention, "Because I don't want to have to spank you again for disrespecting Mrs. Drake. And Molly, one more thing, Mrs. Drake has my permission to spank you when you disobey."
Molly's eyes widen again as her running feet came to a halt. Her head hung down as she slowly walked out the door.
Adam laughed to himself, seeing that his sweet little girl finally got the message.
Adam continued to work inside on his paperwork thru most the afternoon. After a kaodic morning, the day had turned quiet peaceful.
He felt productive in his business and secure in his parenting.
Life for the Cartwright's was looking up.
Elizabeth Drake was serving to be quite the governess and helped bring order to the home.
But most of all Adam appreciated her gentle nature and positive approach with the kids. "She will make a fine teacher." he thought to himself.
The lessons that Adam prepared for the children to be carried out by Mrs. Drake were much to his satisfaction.
*Summer was almost over. Soon Adam would be parenting by himself again when Elizabeth went back to teaching. But Adam felt confident that the children were settling in.
"Now with Molly on her way to obedience and the twins had settled their shinanigans, parenting wasn't all too bad," Adam thought to himself.
"Adam!" Ben bellowed thru the front door as if he had just been in a stampede.
Adam's heart stopped as he quickly ran towards the door. "Pa, what is it? Is someone hurt?"
"No One is hurt, yet!
Your daughter, Molly has taken off on her pony and all too fast I'm afraid. I told her to get down and she refused. Two ranch hands were able to catch her and are bringing her back right now."
"What? Molly?" Adam questioned."
"Now Adam. She needs to be dealt with. This is a very serious matter. I want to know how you plan to handle this ~she is far too reckless~ Do you hear? and most defiant...Adam~Do you hear me?"
"Loud and clear, Pa!" Adam surrendered heavily.
"Now Pa, she has defied you. Molly needs to know you won't tolerate her disobedience."
" And Pa...could you please remember... she's just a little girl~~~"
THE END
Thank you soooo very much for the wonderful reviews from my fatefull followers . I love to hear thedetails of what you liked about the characters or happenings in the story line...Thank you x3!...for anyone who is following my story and have not reviewed~Please drop in and say hello~it's most encouraging!
CJ