A Gift for Amelia

by

Janice Sagraves

This is for Becky S, who has helped me immensely. Without it Remembrance probably wouldn’t have been written or the series been born.

ONE

Soft chords filled the air as Adam Cartwright strummed the guitar, his long, supple fingers sliding along the frets like Sierra breezes over the surface of the lake. His dark head was lowered, and his finely sculpted mouth drawn into a pucker of intense concentration. And so deep was that concentration that he wasn’t aware of his father standing in the doorway watching him. A gentle smile warmed Ben Cartwright’s face and went all the way to his coffee eyes, alight with love, satisfaction and wonderment. Wonderment at the son that he and Elizabeth had conceived and wonderment that he was still alive and once again filling his father’s life with joy. He would always be eternally grateful to his other two sons for sneaking and going all the way to San Francisco for this guitar. Adam’s music had returned to the Ponderosa.

+++++

Joe Cartwright had been helping Hoss and a hand build a new line shack out at Gobbler’s Ridge all morning. The old one was near falling in and harbored too many bad memories so they had burned it down to make room for a new one. But they had run out of nails so he came back to get some. He rode into the yard at a brisk pace, and the first thing he took notice of was his oldest brother.

Adam rarely strayed far from the house. He would go out to work with one or both of his brothers and a few of the hands he trusted implicitly, but since coming home he hadn’t even been to Virginia City. And their father had been perfectly happy with this arrangement, especially after the incident when his eldest son and Mrs. Cadence had been caught in the storm. The fright that Joe had seen in Pa that day continued to rub against his heart.

He got down and tethered Cochise to the pump at the watering trough in front of the barn. He glanced in that direction, but his emerald eyes went back to his brother. The nails could wait, something was wrong with Adam.

Adam had been chopping wood, and had a pretty good stack. But now he just stood staring at the ground, the axe still clutched in his right hand. Joe could see the deep, troubling thoughts splashed across his brother’s solemn face.

If he heard Joe coming toward him it didn’t show itself. He stood like a rock with his eyes locked onto the ground and his knuckles whitening around the tool’s handle.

“Adam,” Joe said softly, but his brother didn’t move. “Adam.” He lightly placed a hand against his brother’s arm and was slowly greeted by disturbed dark hazel eyes that made him hurt. “What’s wrong?”

“I was just thinking, something a man shouldn’t do too much of, if he can get away with it.”

“About what?”

Adam took a deep breath and ran his fingers back through his heavy black hair. “Ned Beech.”

“Well, now, what’d you wantta go and do that for? It’s not like you can do anything to change what he did and what happened to ‘im because of it. He killed a man, rotten as he was, but he still killed ‘im, and you just can’t go around doing that. If he’d gone to Roy when…”

“But he didn’t, Joe. He was afraid, and he didn’t and we were all knocked into an abyss that we almost didn’t get out of because of it, but he was scared. And we do stupid and selfish and sometimes mean things when we’re afraid.”

“Maybe, but he can count himself lucky they didn’t hang ‘im.”

“I know, but ten years in prison isn’t exactly a ride through town.”

“I’m sorry, Adam; I just can’t feel sorry for ‘im. He sat back and watched us grieve and said nothing, knowing full good and well it wasn’t you. And if he’d said something or gone to the sheriff we could’ve gone looking for you and brought you home a lot sooner. And our Pa wouldn’t’ve come close to grieving himself to death. And he did. I about half expected to find ‘im dead when I got back home. Now if you wantta have sympathy for ‘im you go right ahead, but don’t ask me to. And don’t you blame yourself for what none of us could see comin’.” His fingers tightened on his brother’s arm and a grin turned one corner of his mouth. “All right?”

Brilliance grew in Adam’s eyes, and he returned the grin. “All right, Joe.

But Joe could see that something was still bothering him. “All right, what else is it? I’ve known you too long, so don’t try to tell me there’s nothing else. Out with it.”

Adam tilted his head to one side. “It’s August.”

“Okay, so it’s August. What about it?”

Adam’s mouth set. “It’s August, Joe,” he said tersely.

It took less than a second for realization to register in the youngest Cartwright. “Is it that already? Boy, time really flies by.”

“It sure does, and we both know that I have to go up there. This year I have a special gift for her.” Adam glanced back at the house. “And I haven’t told Pa yet.”

Joe paled and looked sick. “Well, when you decide to wait until I’m not in the house. I’ve put up with enough because of you in two months time, and I don’t need ringing in my ears to add to it.” He gulped. “When’re you gonna do it?”

Adam took the axe and hung on its pegs on the side of the house and turned back to his brother. “No time like the present,” he said with a quick jerk of his head.

“And I’ve got to get back and help Hoss. Good luck, brother.”

“Coward.”

“That’s right.”

Adam grinned as he watched him head off toward the barn, and then he turned around and winced. This had to be done; he just wasn’t looking forward to it. Pa would in all likelihood blowup. But he had an obligation that he couldn’t get out of even if he wanted to. “Off to beard the lion in his den,” he said lowly and then started inside.

Ben’s large frame was nestled comfortably in the tufted green leather chair behind the substantial mahogany desk. He still didn’t like doing the books, but someone had to do it. He couldn’t rely on Adam to do it all the time, and Joe had gladly relinquished the task, and then there was Hoss, so he was stuck.

So deep into it was he that he didn’t hear his oldest son come in. His head came up at the rich baritone. “What is it, son?” he asked and went right back to it.

Adam cleared his throat, rested his hands on his hips and braced himself. “I’m going to Bantree in the morning.”

Ben’s head shot up and the blood drained from his face, making his eyes look all the blacker. “You’re what?” He held up both hands. “No, don’t repeat it, I heard you the first time. Now, why in the world would you want to go back there and so soon?”

“In six days it’ll be tenth and a very special young lady’s sixteenth birthday. And I want to help her celebrate like I did last year.”

“But last year you hadn’t almost been killed,” Ben said, his voice rising. “I know they’ll understand.”

“Siddon and Carolyn will, but you’re only sixteen once, and at that age it’s so easy for your heart to be broken. Yes, she’ll get over it, but I don’t want her to have to, not because of me. And, besides, I feel fine and… this is something I have to do, Pa. If I don’t I may never go back.”

“Is that such a bad thing? Somebody else can always go. You don’t have to.”

“And live the rest of my life afraid? No, Pa, this is something I absolutely have to do, and the longer I wait the harder it’s gonna be. And I won’t give Vince Decker the satisfaction.”

“Well, suppose I won’t let you?” Ben said as he jerked to his feet. “No, you’re not going. I absolutely forbid it!”

“And do you forbid me to live my own life?” Adam said, his own voice rising. Then he took a deep breath and moved closer to the desk. “Do you remember how when we were children you told us that when we were thrown from a horse we just had to get right back on?” he went on more calmly. “Well, going back to Bantree is my horse. And I know that if I don’t get right back on I probably never will.”

Ben lowered himself back into the chair, his son’s calm, reasonable words deflating him. “I understand that, but I just can’t say I care for the thought of you going up there alone.”

“Who said I’m going alone?” Adam said with a grin as he sat down on the edge of the desk and crossed his hands in his lap. “I thought I’d take Chris with me.”

“Chris? Why him? Why not Hoss or Joe?”

“Well, he’s never been there, and I thought he might like to go. And I could do with the fresh company,” he said with a smirk.

“I still don’t like it. But your mind’s made up, isn’t it?”

“It is, and I don’t think either one of us feels like arguing about it.”

“All right, son, but you wire me first thing when you get there.”

“I will, Pa, don’t worry about it. We’ll be all right.” Then he gave his father a pat on the arm and went back outside.

But Ben was worried. He couldn’t get over what had happened the last time his son had gone to that town. The dark visions came at him in a torrent, and he couldn’t fight them off. He didn’t want Adam to go, but he knew he couldn’t hold onto him forever. And he knew why his son had to do this, and he understood, but he still didn’t like it.

+++++

Adam had Sport tethered at the hitch rail in front of the house and was tightening the cinch when his brothers came out. He could see that they weren’t any happier about it than Pa was. They’d said little at supper last night and even less at breakfast this morning.

“Don’t look so down in the mouth, you two. I’m only going to Bantree,” he said as he gave the cinch a final tug.

“Are you sure you don’t want me or Hoss to go with you?”

“Nah, me and Chris’ll be fine.” Adam checked the bag of provisions to make sure it was securely tied to the horn. “So stop fretting. I am a grown man, you know.

“We know that, Adam, but…”

“No ‘buts’, Hoss, I’m going and I’m taking Chris and that’s it. And I don’t want to hear another word about it,” Adam said huffily. “And if you follow me I’ll shoot you myself.” He put his foot in the stirrup and moved into the saddle just as Chris McCutcheon joined him on his little dun mare. “You ready, Chris?”

“Whenever you are, Boss.”

As Adam started to wheel Sport his eyes met with his father’s, who was watching him from the window in the office. He smiled and tipped his hat to his pa, then he brought the horse around, and he and Chris rode out past the barn in a clatter of hooves.

TWO

“Is that the best you can do?” the black-haired man asked and laughed sadistically. “I can do better.”

The pain ran through Adam’s midsection as the punch came to his stomach and the breath fled his lungs. He doubled over as he reeled against it, but he wasn’t going down without a fight. He managed to straighten up, and his fist lashed out gropingly and magically connected with the man’s jaw.

But instead of cursing him, the man only laughed. Then a blinding blow came to the side of his head as he felt the pistol’s barrel against his skull and white hot pain shot through his eyes and his brain. And this time he went down onto his hands and knees and a boot toe in his ribs shoved him over.

“Now are you gonna take the clothes off or am I gonna have to do it for you?”

“You’re gonna have to kill me,” Adam said hoarsely.

“Fair enough.”

And then he felt the boot in his stomach, and he doubled up. He tried getting to his feet, but was pushed down once more and the boot came again and again. Once he grabbed the boot, but it kicked him in the mouth, and he could taste the coppery blood. His breathing came fast and jerky and intense agony filled every part of him.

“Last chance.”

Adam pushed himself away from the ground and began unbuttoning his shirt. His fingers didn’t want to cooperate, but clothes weren’t worth dying over.

“Too late.”

And then he was shoved back down and the blows resumed. The pistol struck his cheek, and he could feel the skin split, and his face became wet and warm. But still he tried to fight back even though his strength was flowing from him along with his blood.

With one last feeble effort he managed to get to his knees, but then a sharp blow between his shoulder blades drove him down and he lay on his face, bleeding into the dirt.

Night was coming for him, and he didn’t try to fight it. He was becoming numb to the continuing blows, and he didn’t care anymore. He stopped moving and then his clothes were being roughly taken off of him. He didn’t do anything when he was flipped onto his back. The cool air lightly brushed his sweaty skin and mingled with the increasing numb, and he didn’t really feel it.

“Nice clothes,” came as that vile voice. “Thanks.”

And then he found himself kicked back onto his stomach. There was no fight left in him, even the fight to stay alive was becoming engulfed in darkness. He could hear the blood coursing in his ears, but then he heard something else.

“Boss.”

He willed his eyes to open and seek out the source. And then he saw that it was Chris, and he was standing in front of him and looking down at him with empty eyes. Adam tried reaching out to him, and his arm was wobbly, and he could raise it less than an inch from the ground.

“Boss,” he heard Chris say again, but his lips didn’t move. And then someone was shaking him for he could feel their hand on his shoulder.

“Boss.”

Adam sat up with a jolt and the chilly night air filled his lungs in quick, hard breaths. He looked around into Chris’ face, lit by the glow from the campfire.

“You all right, Boss? That was one heck of a dream you was havin’.”

Adam rubbed the heels of his hands against his temples in an attempt to suppress the pounding in his head. With a worn smile he reached out and took the boy’s shoulder. “I’m all right. Now go on back to bed. We’ve got a long trail ahead of us tomorrow.”

“You sure?”

“I’m sure.” Adam gave him a pat. “Go on.”

Adam watched him as he went back to his bed and got under the blanket, and then he himself leaned back into the fleece lining of his saddle. It was still warm and wrapped itself around him like a comforting friend. He figured trying to go back to sleep was a futile effort at best. He looked up at the vast black void over him alive with a million dots of light and wondered why him. But he knew it was just the luck of the draw, for it would’ve happened to anyone who came across Vince Decker, and he knew he wasn’t the first. One thing was for certain though; he was definitely the last, thanks to Ned Beech.

+++++

It was rounding onto four o’clock two days later when Adam and Chris rode into Bantree. It wasn’t what some people would call a large town with a population of two to three hundred that fluctuated with the seasons. But Adam liked it, and he had good friends in the Bannings and Steve Balasco here.

As they came down the main street he could see in the light glinting in the boy’s bright eyes and the way his head pivoted the excitement of a new town.

“Before we go on to…” But Adam could tell that Chris wasn’t really hearing what he was saying. “Chris,” he said and smacked the kid’s arm.

“Yeah, Boss,” Chris said as his head snapped around.

“Before we go on to the Banning’s I have to wire Pa, and then I’d like to stop for a few minutes. I don’t know about you, but I could use a cold beer.”

“Sounds good to me, Boss.”

Chris sat on Dunny in front of the telegraph office holding Sport’s reins while Adam wired his father. It didn’t take long, and they were soon on their way again. They came to The Wooden Nickel saloon and Adam reined in first. Chris came in right alongside him and they got down almost together. They tied up and went on inside. A tinny piano was belting out the player’s rendition of ‘Buffalo Gals’ as they came in through the batwing doors.

Steve Balasco was behind the bar pouring a patron a whiskey when he saw them. Anticipation darted into his charcoal eyes and the corners of his mouth turned up. He hadn’t seen Adam Cartwright since he’d been there back in the first half of June. His fingers tightened on the bottle as he recalled Joe Cartwright telling him that his brother was dead. And he would always remember the ache in his gut when he’d realized that he’d lost a good and dear friend. Yet, here he was, and Steve wanted to climb over the bar. “Adam!” he called out above the music as he sat the bottle down with a thud.

Adam and Chris stepped to the bar and Chris propped his foot on the brass rod that ran around the bottom of it.

“Two beers, Steve, and make ‘em cold,” Adam said brightly as he leaned his elbows on the bar.

“Two ice cold beers comin’ up.”

Adam proceeded to introduce bartender to cowhand as the frosty mugs were banged down in front of them. Sweat ringed around their bottoms and froth ran down their sides.

“Boy, Adam, it sure is good to see you again,” he said as he gave his friend a slap against the arm. “After June I…”

“I know, Steve.” Adam took a good swig of his beer.

“Hey, I’ve got something to show you,” Steve said on a cheerier note. He ducked down behind the bar and came back up with a red leather bound volume. “A complete book of Shakespeare’s sonnet’s. I sent all the way to Boston for it two months ago and it only got here just last week.”

Chris took a gulp of his own beer as he watched Adam take up the little book and begin leafing eagerly through it. Joe had told him about his brother’s love of poetry, most notably Shakespeare. He’d never cared much for the stuff himself since most of it he couldn’t make heads-or-tails of. And this Shakespeare fella had to be the most confusing of all.

It was almost an hour later when Adam and Chris came out of the Nickel. They weren’t drunk, Chris only had two beers and Adam hadn’t even finished the one.

Chris had his hat pulled low in front as he walked out behind Adam.

“Isn’t there anybody in all of the Nevada Territory that likes Shakespeare?” Adam said flatly as he un-tethered Sport with a hard jerk. “Besides me and Steve, that is?”

“Well, I cain’t understand those big words,” Chris said as he tugged the rein loose from the rail. “It sounded sorta purty, but I didn’t have the dangedest notion what he was sayin’.”

“At least you admit that it’s pretty,” Adam said as he climbed into the saddle. “Joe never would, although Hoss might.”

Chris mounted up and they moved out into the street.

“All right, Chris, are you ready to go meet the Bannings?”

“Whatever you wantta do, Boss.”

Adam’s mouth set. “And let’s get one thing straightened out right here and now. The name’s Adam, not Boss, and that’s what I want you to call me. All my friends do.”

“Well, I don’t think…”

“If I say it’s all right to call me by my name, then it is.”

“Okay, Bo… Adam,” Chris said half embarrassed.

“All right, now let’s go meet that pretty young lady I’ve been telling you about.”

They eased their horses into a walk and headed out the other end of town.

THREE

It didn’t take long to get to the Banning mansion. Adam hadn’t been here since he and Joe had stopped on their way home. At the time, however, he’d recollected very little about the people who lived in such a fine manor, and now he was back to get reacquainted.

As they came into sight of the house Chris whistled through his teeth. Adam couldn’t help his grin.

“I know the house is fancy, but the Bannings are as common as they come. You’ll like them. And you’ll like Giles, too. Although he can be a bit of a mother bear when it comes to the daughters, so you’ll have to watch your step around them.”

“All right, Boss, that won’t be any trouble.”

Adam directed a shadowy gaze at him, and his mouth drew in. “What did I say about that?”

“About what?” Then realization struck. “Oh, sorry, Bo… Adam.”

Raven-haired Marjorie, the Banning’s middle girl, was sitting in the grass at the front of the house reading ‘Paradise Lost’, one of her favorite books, when she looked up at the sound of approaching horses. A broad smile spread across the mouth she’d inherited from her father. Placing a marker crocheted of pink satin ribbon between the pages to keep her place she laid the book aside.

Adam and Chris came along the curved drive and reined up in front of her as she came to her feet. She brushed the loose grass from the skirt of her soft blue dress and the white frilly pantalettes that went past the hem and to her ankles. Adam dismounted as his companion did the same and took charge of the horses. A warm light filled his face as he moved closer to her.

“Hello, Marjorie, it’s been a while,” he said.

“Yes, it has,” she said in a very lady-like manner and held her hand out to him. “Mother’s in her garden picking yellow roses for Amelia’s birthday.”

He took the delicate little hand and kissed the back of it.

“My favorite’s are the red ones,” she went on and then her chocolate eyes traced his face inquisitively. “Do you remember that?”

“I remember.” He went to Sport and brought a small, brown sack from the left pouch of his saddlebags and then came back to her. “And I also remember that your favorite candy is licorice whips.” She took it, and her eyes lit up as she looked inside. “And they’re all for you.”

The little girl suddenly took the place of the lady as she threw her arms around him. “Oh, Adam, I’m so glad you’re all right.”

He held her tightly and stroked the heavy black hair so much like his own. It was good to hold her and know that she was truly glad to see him. “Well, I had to be. With so many beautiful women in the Banning family I just had to come back. There’s somebody I’d like for you to meet,” and he gently pulled her away. “Miss Marjorie Banning, I’d like to introduce you to Mr. Christopher McCutcheon.”

“Miss Banning,” Chris said as he tipped his hat to her.

“Mr. McCutcheon,” she replied with a demure curtsey.

“I wanted him to experience some of the well-known Banning hospitality and to see why I enjoy coming up here so much.” He went back and got his saddle bags and hung over his shoulder. Then he held out his arm, and she picked up her book then took it.

“I’ll take care o’ the horses, Boss.”

Adam’s brow furrowed. He was going to have to have another talk with the boy about that. “Just tie ‘em to one of the hitch posts and somebody’ll take care of ‘em. You’re a guest, and I don’t think the Bannings would want you to work.”

“But I…”

“Chris, if you insist on calling me boss, then let me boss.”

“Right, Boss.”

“And bring your saddle bags, and before you ask, I know Carolyn Banning.”

He did what Adam said and the three of them went up onto the portico. Marjorie opened the door and Chris found himself standing in one of the biggest rooms he’d ever been in. And it wasn’t even a room actually. There was polished marble on the floors and polished wood on the walls, the stair railing and stairs and the furniture. He hadn’t been in hotels this grand. Then the sound of boots against the stone made him look around.

“Adam,” Mason Giles said as he came toward them, his right hand shooting out. The gold of a single front tooth glinted as a welcoming grin spread his mouth. “After what happened we weren’t really expecting you. But Miss Amelia wouldn’t be talked out of it, and she’s been like a fox standin’ on an ant hill for three days.” He chuckled. “Can’t do a thing with ‘er.”

Adam took the proffered hand and pumped it heartily. “Well, I couldn’t’ stand to disappoint her. And I needed to come just to prove that I could.”

Adam looked around as his name was said crisply as Carolyn Banning floated out of the ball room. Her heavily flounced dress swished and rustled as she came to him, a basket filled with lemon-yellow roses over her arm.

“It’s so good that you came,” she said as she kissed his cheek. “It’s wonderful to have you in this house again. And I know that Amelia is going to be thrilled. She’s been nervous as a cat. We’ve tried telling her that you might not come this year, but she wouldn’t hear it. Siddon isn’t here right now; he had to go to the saw mill to see to a shipment for a new trestle or some such thing. I don’t really keep up with it. And he took Amelia with him just to get her out of the house for a while. But they should be back for supper.” And then her eyes lit on Chris. “And who’s this handsome gentleman?”

As Adam introduced him, Chris snapped his hat off, and his caramel-colored hair ruffled into a disreputable state. “Ma’am.”

“Giles, prepare two rooms for our guests.”

“Yes, Mrs. Banning,” Giles said and started upstairs.

“Ma’am, I’ll just get a room at one o’ the hotels in town.”

“You’ll do no such thing. You’re a friend of Adam’s, and you will stay right here. And I won’t hear another word on the subject.”

“Yes, ma’am,” Chris said and bowed his head like a child that had just been scolded by his mother.

Carolyn sat the basket on a richly carved cherry-wood table by the staircase then stepped to Adam and took his arm. “It’s not that often that we get two such good-looking men pay us a visit.”

She led Adam – chattering away about his family and the impending party for her daughter’s birthday – toward the back of the house. With a nod from his boss Chris dutifully followed while Marjorie took the flowers to the kitchen.

+++++

Chris had trouble settling down in such a grand room. The bed was soft enough to swallow a man whole and the big overstuffed chair was a pure pleasure to sit in. There was a soft carpet on the floor that felt good under bare feet after being closed up in boots all day.

A knock came at the door, and he shot a wild glance in its direction. “Be right with ya!” He grabbed his boots and socks and hurriedly put them back on. The knock repeated itself, followed by Adam’s voice.

His boots pinched as he rushed to the door, and he realized that in his haste he’d put them on the wrong feet. Maybe the boss wouldn’t notice, but he didn’t expect to get off that lucky.

“How are you settling in?” Adam asked as he stepped inside. His eyes flitted to the boy’s feet, and he discreetly hid a grin with his hand.

“Just fine. I never been in a place like this. My ma would o’ had a fit if she’d lived in this kind o’ house.”

“I’m sure she would have. The real reason I came in was to see if you brought any good clothes with you.”

“Well, I didn’t bring nothin’ but the ones I work in. Heck, it’s all I got. Never had no call for nothin’ fancy.”

“That’s easy enough to remedy. In the morning we’ll go back into town and set you up. A new coat and britches, and I’m afraid that hat just won’t do.”

“What’s wrong with my hat?”

“Not a thing, if you’re riding fence or bustin’ broncs, but for keeping a young lady’s company it’s just not elegant enough.”

“Oh,” Chris said with a grimace. “But I didn’t bring that much money with me. Shoot, I don’t think I got that much anyhow.”

“Still not a problem. I’ve got it.” Chris started to object, but Adam held up his hand and hushed him. “Now don’t argue with me. It’s a sad thing when friends can’t help friends. So you be ready and first thing after breakfast we’ll take care of it.”

“All right, Boss.”

“The name is still Adam,” he said and gave the kid a friendly slap on the arm. And then a devious glimmer flitted into his eyes. “If you start calling me that I won’t tell anybody about your boots.”

“My boots?” Chris said as he glanced at his feet and hid one behind the other leg. “What’s wrong with ‘em?”

Adam moved closer to him and lowered his voice. “They’re on the wrong feet.”

Chris blushed and ruffled his fingers in his thick hair. His nose wrinkled, and he couldn’t look the boss straight in the eye.

“Remember, first thing after breakfast,” Adam said and went out into the hall then leaned back into the room. “These rugs do feel good under a man’s feet, don’t they?” He grinned knowingly then backed out and closed the door.

Chris snorted and shook his head. He knew he couldn’t’ put anything over on the boss, he was simply too sharp. With a jerk, he went back to the chair and sat down and then took his boots and socks off and began contentedly rubbing his feet over the carpet.

FOUR

It was a little over a half hour till supper when Amelia Banning burst into the foyer in her smart riding habit. She was agitated, and her blue eyes sparked with excitement. “Mother!” She unpinned her hat and placed it and her riding crop on the cherry-wood table. “Giles!”

Giles rushed in from the back of the house. “Miss Amelia,” he said in a low chastising tone, “you know your mother don’t like you an’ your sisters yellin’ in the house like a bunch o’ lumberjacks.”

“He’s here!” she said breathlessly as she pulled off her gloves and laid them on top of her hat. “I saw Sport in the stable!”

“Yes, Miss Amelia, he’s here.”

“But who does the other horse belong to?” she asked with puzzlement. “I’ve never seen it before.”

“He brought a friend with ‘im. Seems to be a nice young lad.”

“What’s his…” but before she could finish her mother came in.

“Amelia Isabel, what do you mean screaming like a wild panther?”

“He came, Mother. I knew he would, I just knew it.”

“Yes, dear, you did.”

“Where is he?”

Just then Siddon Banning entered from the ball room. “I see Adam made it.”

“He sure did,” came in the form of a rich baritone.

All eyes turned to the stairs as Adam came down and Amelia’s eyes glittered like diamonds as she saw him.

“Siddon, it’s good seeing you again,” he continued as he went to his friend as his right hand shot out. “Pa wasn’t exactly overjoyed about my coming back to Bantree, but I had a very special supper engagement that I simply couldn’t miss.”

“I know,” Siddon said as he shook his hand. “We’ve been hearing about it for some time now.” His gaze went to his daughter.

Adam stepped to Amelia and looked over her. “Sixteen,” he said as he shook his head. “It’s hard to believe that this is the same little six-year-old I first met clinging to her mother’s skirt.” He grinned as he watched the girl’s cheeks turn a deep pink. “You’ve got yourself quite a lady here. You’ve got a whole house full.”

“I know, I been married to one of ‘em for seventeen years.”

Now it was Carolyn’s turn to pinken. “Siddon Hamilton Banning, he knows how long we’ve been married,” she said sternly. “Now, why don’t you gentlemen talk over business or whatever it is you do while us women go help Giles with supper.”

“But, Mother, I want to stay with Adam. We need to talk.”

“You can do that later,” she said as she took her daughter’s arm. “He’s going to be here for a few days.”

“That’s right, now you go on. And, anyway, the garden doesn’t look right until it gets some moonlight on it,” Adam said.

“All right, but you promise?”

“I promise.”

Adam watched as she allowed her mother to steer her toward the back of the house. Giles gathered the girl’s things from the table and loyally followed.

“My little girl’s not a little girl anymore,” Siddon said ruefully.

“No, she certainly isn’t,” Adam said as his eyebrows rose.

“It won’t be a while till supper yet,” Siddon said as he clapped a large hand on his friend’s back. “So, why don’t we go to my study and have a brandy, and you can tell me about your family and how everything’s been going back home. And I want to know about you, about your readjustment.”

“It hasn’t been easy,” Adam said as they started off toward the paneled hall.

“I’m sure it hasn’t, my friend,” Siddon said and smacked him on the back again. “I’m sure it hasn’t.”

+++++

As is common with teenagers, Amelia was in a hurry and not watching where she was going. And – as luck would have it – just as she was starting up the stairs Chris was leaving them. They collided, and she fell back against the hard marble floor with a grunt, landing squarely on her bustle, had her mother let her wear one.

“Ma’am, are you all right,” Chris asked timorously as he stooped next to her.

“Why don’t you watch where you’re going?” she said snappishly.

“Well, it wasn’t altogether me. You wasn’t watchin’ where you was goin’ either, and I cain’t watch for both of us.”

“Oh, so you’re…,” but the words died in her throat as she looked around into a pair of deep teal eyes. She blinked and widened her scope. A shock of thick, caramel-colored hair hung over his forehead, and his skin was tanned. His lashes were dense fans of the same color, as were his eyebrows. Then he smiled, and her heart threw in an extra thump or two.

“Did ya hurt your… self?”

“N… No, I…” she stammered. “I’m all right.”

“Let me help you up, ma’am, seein’s as how I’m the one that knocked you down.”

He took her hand and wrist and helped her to her feet. His hands were rough and work-callused, but their touch made her gasp.

“You don’t…. You don’t need to call me ma’am.”

“Yes’um, I do. We ain’t been properly introduced and it wouldn’t be seemly not to.”

“Well, I can take care of that,” Adam said as he magically appeared. “Miss Amelia Isabel Banning, I’d like to formally introduce you to Mr. Christopher McCutcheon.”

“How do, ma’am,” he said with a polite nod.

“Don’t you have a middle name? You know mine so it’s only fair that I know yours. Or don’t you have one?”

“Oh, yes’um, I got one right enough, my ma gave it to me, but I ain’t too partial to it.”

“It can’t be that bad,” she said with a demure grin.

Putting his hand up so as to block the words from reaching her, Chris whispered into Adam’s ear. Adam grimaced and looked at her. “Oh, yes it can. Now, if you’ll pardon me, I’ll leave you two to work that out between you.” Then he bounded up the stairs and was gone.

“Isn’t he wonderful?” Amelia said dreamily as she watched him go.

“Yes’um, the boss is one o’ the finest men I’ve ever been right honored to know. Workin’ for him and his pa and brothers is probably the best thing that ever happened to me.” He ducked his head and scrubbed at his nose. “And when we all thought he was dead… well, I was thinkin’ about leavin’ the first place I wanted to call home in a long time.”

“It must’ve been terrible for you.”

“Oh, yes, ma’am. You see, I was with Hoss and Joe when they found that man they thought was…”

She watched him as bleak memories cast over his handsome face like a cloud. Lightly, she touched the back of his hand and smiled. “That’s all behind us now, and I don’t want to think about it. He’s here and safe, and you didn’t have to leave, and I’ll be sixteen in two days and we shouldn’t let what happened darken all that. Now, if you’ll please excuse me.” With a dainty curtsey she started up the steps, but only got half way when she stopped and turned back to him. “You’re going to be at my party, aren’t you?”

“Yes, ma’am, if’n you want me to.”

“Oh, I do.” Then she turned and bounded up the rest of the way.

Chris couldn’t remember ever meeting such a girl. She was pretty and refined and had the kind of spunk he liked in a woman. He riffled his fingers in his hair and gave his head a jerk then he started toward the back of the house. He had to make sure that Dunny was being properly taken care of. Abruptly, he stopped and looked up. “Amelia,” he said over with an air of awe then snapped himself out of it and went on.

FIVE

“Would you hold still,” Adam admonished.

“Well, it’s too tight,” Chris said as he ran his finger between his shirt collar and his neck.

Adam slapped his hand away. “I can’t believe you never learned how to tie one of these.”

“I never had any call to till now.”

“Don’t tell me you’ve never been around a young lady before.”

“Yeah, but the kind I’ve always been with didn’t care if I wore a tie or not.”

Adam clicked his teeth and shook his head. “I said be still.”

Chris’ face crunched as he tilted his head farther back. “It sure is a good thing you had a spare.”

“I didn’t. I borrowed this one from Siddon.”

Chris’ head dropped, and he looked Adam right in the eye, then his face contorted, and he groaned.

Adam glared at him and pulled his mouth into a flat line. “I’d just as soon try to put one of these on a pig.” He took the boy’s head with both hands and tilted it back. “Now be still.” A knock came at the door. “Come in,” he growled.

“So, how are you two doing?” Siddon asked cheerfully as he stepped in.

“This is like roping a calf on ice,” Adam said as he continued to fiddle with the long narrow piece of dark red silk.

“Why don’t I take a whack at it?”

“Go right ahead,” Adam said and gladly relinquished his chore.

But Siddon’s fingers were larger and Chris continued to fidget. Adam bit his lip and tried not to laugh openly. He sat down on the side of the bed and was enjoying the show when a knock came at the doorjamb. “Come on in, Giles, and join the fun,” Adam said and Siddon shot him a withering glance.

Giles entered and Adam could see that – like himself – the houseman was trying not to laugh.

“Havin’ trouble, Mr. Banning?”

“Have you ever tried cutting down a full grown pine with a jackknife?” Siddon said as he continued trying to tie a proper bow and the boy kept squirming.

“Here, lemme give it a try.”

“Be my guest,” Siddon said and joined Adam on the side of the bed.

Before even making the attempt, Giles leaned close to the boy and whispered into his ear. Chris went rigid and Giles tied the neatest bow Adam thought he’d ever seen. He and Siddon exchanged looks as if asking the same unspoken question.

“All right, son, that should do it,” Giles said and gave Chris a slap on the arm. “I just came to tell you that Mrs. Banning and the girls are waiting.” Then he walked to the door and waited to follow them.

As they started out Adam stopped and leaned closer to Giles. “What did you say to him?”

A Cheshire cat-like grin spread the wiry man’s mouth and a light of pure deviousness entered his dark eyes. “I just told ‘im that if he didn’t be still, I’d tell Miss Amelia about his boots.”

Adam’s mouth drew in at the corners. “Been listening at key holes again?”

“It’s how I keep up on things in the household that I need to know about,” he said with a sideways nod of his head.

“Now he probably thinks I told you.”

“Not for long.”

Adam simply shook his head as he walked out. Giles followed, pulling the door together behind him, and as he did Siddon’s voice whispered, “What did he say to him?”

+++++

After supper of veal and roasted potatoes with dessert of apple-filled crepes, Adam kept his promise as he and Amelia strolled out into the rose garden. His white shirt, and her pale yellow dress were enhanced by the moonlight, and her golden hair glistened like a miner’s dream.

“Such a beautiful night,” Adam said as they went down the main cobble-stoned path. She had one arm hooked over his and the slender fingers of both hands laced together. “And the moon lights up your hair like a candle in Shakespeare’s window.” But she didn’t say anything as they walked slowly along. He looked over at her and could see that she was thinking hard on something. “He is quite a good looking young man.”

“Who is?” she asked as she looked at him.

“Chris.”

“How did you know I was thinking about him?”

“Just call it Cartwright intuition,” he said with a sly grin, “and the fact that your eyes hardly left him all through supper.”

“Oh,” she said with an embarrassed scowl. “Well, he was sitting directly across from me, and I could hardly help it.”

“Uh-huh,” he said as one eyebrow rose. “Still, I could see that you were very interested.”

“Are you jealous?” Her eyes glittered.

“No, I guess I always knew that there was the possibility that somebody else would catch your eye someday. Has he?”

“I don’t know,” she said seriously. “I mean, I don’t know anything about him. But you I’ve know since I was a child.”

“This is true.”

“You could tell me about him.”

“Don’t you think you should ask him? He is, after all, more of an authority on the subject than I am. And it’s really not my place anyway.”

“I guess you’re right,” she said dejectedly.

“But let’s not waste this wonderful moonlight,” he said brightly as he gave her hands a pat. “And let’s talk about your party. I don’t think it could possibly be better than the one you had last year.”

“Oh, it’s going to be,” she said enthusiastically. “Mother has invited all my friends and their families and the young men from town, and you and Chris are going to be there.”

She hadn’t even noticed what she’d said, and he held back his amusement.

As they moved farther into the garden her soft voice filled the rose-perfumed air as she outlined the plans for her special day.

+++++

Adam was sitting in the chair in his room taking his boots off when someone knocked, and he went to answer it. “Chris, I thought you’d turned in already.”

“Not yet. I wanted to talk to you about somethin’ first, if’n you don’t mind.”

“Of course, I don’t mind. Come on in.”

With a polite thank you the kid came in as Adam closed the door. The boy stood at the foot of the bed running his hands along the smooth footboard. Adam had an idea what the problem was.

“So what do you want to talk about?” Adam asked innocently as he sat back in the chair and began peeling off his socks.

“Well, I… Well, I don’t know how…”

“Out with it, boy, it’s getting late.”

“Well, doggone it,” Chris blurted as he turned to face him, “it’s Amelia Banning.”

Adam tried looking surprised. “Really? What about her?”

“Well, she’s just about the purttiest thing I ever did see, and…” he ruffled his hair, “after I knocked ‘er down.”

“You knocked her down?”

“Well, it weren’t altogether my fault. She come runnin’ upstairs like a spring colt when I was comin’ down, and, well, we just flat run into each other.”

“I see. But that’s not the problem, is it?”

“Part of it maybe. I’d like to get to know ‘er better, but with her folks being moneyed like they are and her used to the finer things, and me just a working cowhand I don’t think she’d…” His head drooped.

Adam went to him and slapped his hands onto his shoulders and Chris looked up. “Boy, don’t ever try to figure a woman. With some money matters, but with most I don’t think it does. You’ve been properly introduced and as long as you behave like a gentleman I don’t see a thing wrong with you getting to know her better. There’s the party day after tomorrow and a very nice garden right outside the house, and she loves to ride, so there’s no excuse not to.”

“But what about her folks?”

“When Carolyn married Siddon Banning he had less money than you do and not much more when they first came here. They’re good down-to-earth people, so if you want to be with their daughter, don’t be afraid to ask them.”

“All right, Boss.” The boy’s deep, greenish-blue eyes flickered. “I’ll sure do that. And thanks for listenin’.”

“What’re friends for?”

Chris’ grin broadened then he went out and closed the door.

Adam tilted his head to one side. “This is working faster than I expected it to,” he said with a grunt and shook his head then began unbuttoning his shirt.

SIX

After breakfast Adam and Chris rode into town and went straight to Frederick’s Mercantile. The boy still didn’t like the idea of his boss buying clothes for him, but quickly learned that it was usually a losing proposition to argue with Adam Cartwright.

“Good morning, Mr. Frederick,” Adam said cheerfully as they came into the store.

The white haired man’s head came up as the bell over the door tinkled. “Good morning, Adam,” he said brightly as he came from behind the counter. “Haven’t seen you in a bit and after what happened I didn’t expect it to be this soon. Who’s your young friend?”

Adam proceeded to introduce them and then tell the storekeeper why they were there. He was glad to help and showed them to his small line of men’s dress clothes. Adam found a dark brown jacket with tiny vertical white stripes running through it. “So, what do you think of this one, Chris?”

“Whatever you think, Boss.”

“You’re the one that’s gonna wear it, and if you don’t like it we’ll find something else,” Adam said with and his heavy brows dropped.

Chris took it from him and ran his hands along its nubby fabric. The buttons were of the same dark color and it had one on each cuff. At Adam’s insistence, he tried it on and it fit nicely. The boy’s face lit up as he ran a hand along one sleeve.

“We’ll take this one. And we need two shirts, a pair of britches and a tie and hat.”

Mr. Frederick fingered his chin as his powdery blue eyes wandered over the boy’s head. “I have just the one to go with that hair.”

“What’s wrong with my hair?” Chris asked defensively.

“Not a thing, son,” Frederick said as one corner of his mouth turned. “I bet the ladies love it.” Then he gave Adam a wink and went to the back of the small store. When he returned he had a fawn-colored hat with a slightly darker, wide, grosgrain ribbon band. He removed the old, sweat-stained one and placed the new one atop the boy’s head. It was the perfect compliment to his caramel hair.

Mr. Frederick stepped back next to Adam as he crossed his arms over his chest and they looked the boy over. “Well, what do you think?”

Adam reached out, and he and the store owner shook hands while Chris stood like a mannequin afraid to move.

It was fifteen minutes later when they came out of the store. Chris was carrying two bundles wrapped in brown paper and tied with twine and a hat box. He put the parcels in his saddlebags and hung the box from the horn.

“Now you can come to the party in style,” Adam said as he checked his bridle.

“You think I’ll look presentable?”

Adam went serious as he turned to the boy. “You’re always presentable, Chris, and any young lady would be lucky to just to be with you. Now let me finish here and we’ll head on back.”

Adam was hidden from sight by his horse when two young toughs came along the boardwalk and spied the hatbox. They were each wearing what were probably their first guns and hardly old enough to shave. And even at twenty-one, Chris didn’t look any older.

“Hey, Stu, he bought ‘imself a hat.”

“Ah, now ain’t that sweet. An’ had it put in its very own box.”

“Well, now maybe he bought it for a girl.”

“Nah, then it would o’ been put in a pink box. Ain’t that right, kid?”

They obviously hadn’t seen Adam so he decided to stay out of sight and let Chris handle it.

“Hey, ain’t you gonna answer us?” the one called Stu said.

Without a word Chris turned to face them and let his hand drop next to the gun on his left hip. The way he’d been standing they hadn’t seen that he was wearing one.

The gesture wasn’t lost on the boys and they went perfectly white. “We didn’t mean nothin’, Mister, we was just funnin’.”

“Well, I ain’t laughin’,” Chris said coolly.

The two teenagers couldn’t apologize enough then scurried away, bumping into each other as they kept looking back to make sure they weren’t being followed.

Chris expelled a large breath and pushed his hat back, releasing a hank of hair, as he leaned against Dunny.

Adam appeared from behind Sport. “You handled that real well.”

“Thanks, I figgered they was just feelin their oats and not really wantin’ to shoot or get shot,” Chris said with a relieved smile. “I’m glad I was right.” Then the smile turned into a wicked smirk.

Adam grinned and winked then slapped him on the arm, and they got mounted and headed back to the Banning’s.

+++++

“Amelia Banning, stop fidgeting. I swan, it’s like trying to dress a squirmy little baby,” Carolyn said as she helped her daughter into one of three petticoats that had been laid out on the bed.

“I’m not a baby,” Amelia said as she looked at herself in the full length floor mirror. She had developed some voluptuous curves in a year’s growing. “I will be sixteen tomorrow.”

“I know that, dear, I was there when you came into the world.” She retrieved another of the petticoats and managed to get it onto her daughter. “But you and your sisters have been one of the joys in my life, and I would do it all over again.”

As her mother picked up the third petticoat Amelia grimaced. “Do I have to wear three? Jane Willis’ mother lets her only wear two.”

“Well, if Theodora Willis wants to do that with her daughter she can, but mine is a proper young lady and will wear three. Now the sooner we get you into this one the sooner you can get dressed and the sooner you can go downstairs.”

“Where Adam is waiting.” But then fear darted into the girl’s eyes. “He is waiting, isn’t he?”

“Yes, dear, he’s in the study with your father,” Carolyn said as she slipped the dress over her daughter’s head. “And he’ll be waiting when you make your grand entrance.” She fastened the hooks down the back. “Now turn around.” As her daughter faced her she fluffed the lace on the upper part of the bodice and the sleeves. Then she gave the skirt and petticoats a plump and straightened her pantalettes then stepped back. As she looked over her masterpiece both hands went to her mouth and her eyes brimmed. “Where did my little girl go?”

Amelia smiled and threw her arms around her mother’s neck and hugged tightly. “I grew up,” she said.

Carolyn held her daughter at arm’s length and looked over her admiringly. “That you surely did.” After a good long look she went to the small mahogany table by the door and from the drawer took out a perfect yellow rose. “I didn’t think it would do any harm if you wore one of your roses tonight,” she said and secured it into the froth of golden ringlets at the top of her daughter’s head. “There now, a vision in white and yellow. And if you don’t turn the head of every man in town, young and old, then I’m worried about the state of manhood in the Territory.”

Amelia blushed and lowered her head coyly. “Oh, Mother, I’m not that pretty.” Then she slowly raised her eyes to her mother’s face. “Am I?”

“You most certainly are.”

“Well, it’s only because I look like you.”

Carolyn gave her a final inspection. “Are you ready?”

Amelia nodded. Carolyn went to the door and stuck her head out into the hall. “All right, Giles.”

After several minutes Carolyn got the yellow silk wrap from the footboard and took her daughter’s arm, and they left the room. As they approached the head of the stairs Amelia was attacked by a swarm of butterflies. She was so excited she thought she would pop. As they stopped Amelia looked down into the foyer and there was Adam waiting with her father at the bottom step. He wore a white shirt with a black coat and string tie as he always did for such occasions. “Oh, Mother, he’s so handsome,” she whispered.

“Yes, dear, they both are,” Carolyn said, and her breath caught as her eyes met with her husband’s.

They started down; the rustle of their dresses filling the silence. The girl’s grip tightened on her mother’s arm as they got closer, and she felt as much as saw the dark hazel eyes taking her in. Her heart thumped wildly as she came to stand in front of Adam, and she couldn’t control her rapid breathing.

“Well, here she is,” Carolyn announced.

“This just can’t be the same little girl,” Adam said as the single eyebrow rose. “Amelia, you look lovely. And I don’t think there’ll be an eye in Tabler’s tonight that won’t turn in your direction.”

Again Amelia blushed. Her parents each gave her a kiss and wished her a wonderful evening then Siddon went and opened the front door.

Carolyn handed the wrap to Adam, and he draped it over the girl’s shoulders. “Shall we?” he said as he held his arm out to her.

Without a word she took his arm, and he retrieved his hat from the newel post, and they walked out onto the portico, followed by Siddon and Carolyn. A shiny black landau carriage with both sections of the roof down and pulled by two equally as black and shiny horses waited for them. Giles stood next to it and had the door already open. Adam helped Amelia in then got in and sat across from her. Giles closed the door then climbed onto the tufted black leather seat and – with a click of his teeth – snapped the reins smartly against the animal’s backs and they started down the drive.

Carolyn sniffled as she watched them go and leaned her head against her husband. He put his arm around her shoulders and kissed the side of her head as he grinned at female foolishness. And he blinked hard more than once to hold back the moisture in his eyes.

From their bedroom window upstairs, two sets of chocolate brown eyes shimmered from two angelic faces as they watched their big sister head for an enchanting evening with a dashing, handsome man. And they could both hardly wait to be sixteen.

Out in the stable, Chris curried Dunny with a gentle hand. It wasn’t really necessary since the horse was given excellent care by the stable keeper. But it was a way to occupy his mind, though it wasn’t enough to keep it entirely away from a golden haired girl with her mother’s blue eyes.

SEVEN

As Amelia and her suave escort entered Tabler’s restaurant people did look and low voices and whispers were accompanied by stares and smiles and, from a few women, even envious leers. The lady’s wrap and the gentleman’s hat were taken and they were shown to a table near the gilded-framed mirror at the back of the room. Adam seated Amelia himself and they were handed menus, and the waiter left them to make their selections.

“Oh, Adam, I’m so excited I don’t think I can eat,” Amelia said as her eyes scanned over the plum-colored folder with gold lettering open in her hands. “My stomach’s all churny.”

Adam raised the menu to hide his smile. “Well, you have to eat something; after all, that’s the reason for coming to a restaurant.” Careful not to let her see him, he watched as her delicate head continually turned, and her eyes glistened as she took in the people and her elegant surroundings. “Would you like for me to order for you?”

She finally looked at him with a shy smile and handed him her menu. “Would you please?”

“I’d be delighted to,” he said as he took it from her then laid them both aside.

Amelia had a light soup of chicken broth with summer vegetables while Adam had a steak – medium well-done – and a baked potato, and they both had the fresh bread. And then came time for dessert.

“Whatever you’d like,” Adam said as the waiter stood patiently by.

“Anything?” she asked with a crafty gleam.

“Anything. This is for your birthday.”

“Then I think I’d like the Peach Flambé,” she said with a slant of her head and a mischievous glance.

“Of course, you know that’s for two,” the waiter said.

“Then I’ll have that too,” Adam said, and his brow drew down as the waiter left. “I guess since I wouldn’t let you have any spirits with supper you had to figure out a way around that.”

Her eyebrows raised, and she placed a hand to her throat as if to say, “Who, me?”

“Well, your parents can only kill me once,” he said as he took a sip of his coffee. “Oh, you do learn young,” he thought.

When they brought the dessert on a little wheeled cart, Amelia could hardly contain her excitement. She watched intently as the waiter poured the brandy over the peaches then lit them. Blue flames flittered and danced and Amelia’s spellbound gaze never left it. Adam’s eyes were more on her than the showy dessert and if Siddon wanted to have his hide for this it was worth it just to see the girl so enthralled.

When it was spooned over slices of cake and finally served and the waiter gone, Adam let Amelia take the first bite. He’d had it before in New York and liked it well enough, though he never would have ordered it for himself. “Well?” he asked.

“It’s fabulous. I’ve never had anything like it. I didn’t know peaches could taste like this.”

He smiled as he started on his own.

Once they were finished, Adam paid the bill and had someone sent for Giles and it wasn’t long before the landau pulled up in front of Tabler’s He held the door for them as before. Once the girl was seated Giles leaned closer to Adam and whispered, “Did our girl have a good time?” Adam simply winked and took his place across from her as a satisfied Giles returned to the seat and they started for home.

As they came into the foyer Amelia was walking on bubbles. Adam took her wrap and hung it over his arm as Carolyn was just coming down the stairs.

“I can see that I don’t have to ask how the evening went,” Carolyn said as she came to her daughter.

“Oh, Mother, it was wonderful,” the girl said dreamily. “Did you know that Peaches Flambé tickles your tongue?”

“Peaches Flambé,” Carolyn said eloquently as her eyes went to Adam.

“It’s what she wanted,” Adam said as he let Carolyn take the wrap from him. “And I kind of promised her that she could have anything she desired.”

“Well, a gentleman can’t go back on a promise,” Carolyn said and took charge of her giddy daughter. “Now, young lady, it’s late and you’ve had an exciting evening and it’s time for you to go to bed.”

“Oh, I don’t think I’ll be able to sleep a wink all night.”

“Well, you can try.”

As they got onto the steps, Amelia whirled and ran back to Adam and kissed him on the cheek. “Thank you, Adam, for a wonderful time I’ll never forget.”

“The pleasure was all mine. Now, sleep well, sweetheart,” he said and kissed her on the forehead.

“Can we do it again next year?”

“We’ll see.”

Carolyn marched her daughter upstairs. Adam couldn’t help but grin as the soft, excited voices of Marjorie and Juliet floated down to his ears. He could just imagine the kinds of questions they were firing at their big sister.

“Peaches Flambé, huh?”

Adam looked around quickly at the sound of Siddon’s voice behind him.

“Oh, don’t worry about it,” Siddon went on. “That one – like all the women in my life – has a knack for getting what she wants.”

“Show me a woman that doesn’t,” Adam said with a lopsided smirk

“Too true. Now, Carolyn was right about it getting late. So how about a nightcap before you turn in?”

“Sounds good to me,” Adam said as he started back to the study with his friend. “I had a fine time with that fine girl of yours, but I’m not as young as I used to be, and she wears me out.”

+++++

Amelia sat on the soft upholstered window seat in her room looking out at the moon, a soft, yellow velvet pillow clutched to her maturing bosom. She was simply too keyed up to sleep. It had been the most perfect time she could ever remember having. The ride through the night in the landau with the top down and pulled by the glossy black horses, the new taste sensation of Peaches Flambé, the heady atmosphere and walking into Tabler’s on the arm of Adam Cartwright. Heads had turned and she’d seen the looks – a few of them envious – and heard the whispers. Her heart had lost some of its flutter, but she knew that the thrill and enchantment of the evening would be with her for a long time.

As she sat there, she became aware of a small squeak. She looked around as the door opened and two dark heads popped in. Their big sister’s excitement had spilled over and sleep was as much of a stranger to them. Amelia smiled and patted the seat in front of her. Marjorie pushed the door together, and then she and Juliet bounded to join their sister.

“I thought you two were asleep,” Amelia said softly as moonlight waltzed in her large eyes.

“We’re too excited,” Juliet, a slightly smaller duplicate of Marjorie, said.

“And mother ran us off before you could tell us all about your time with Adam,” Marjorie said as she grabbed a pillow and emulated her older sister. “Was it better than last year?”

“Oh, yes,” Amelia said as she clutched the pillow closer. “I felt like a princess being escorted by her prince to a royal ball. And I know that some women envied me, I could tell by the way they looked at us.”

“Why?” Juliet asked innocently.

“Oh, don’t be silly,” Marjorie said sternly. “It’s a known fact that Daddy and Adam Cartwright are the two most handsome men in the world.” She gave her little sister a glower then turned back to Amelia. “Tell us more. I heard you had something with…” her voice lowered even further, “brandy in it.”

Amelia leaned closer to them and nodded. “And it was delicious. I’ve heard people say that not all the alcohol burns away. And they’re right; I could feel it on my tongue.”

“You mean they set it on fire?” Juliet said as her chocolate eyes widened.

“Oh, you’re such a dullard,” Marjorie said as she shook her head. “Of course they set it on fire. It wouldn’t be a flambé if they didn’t. Now go on and tell us some more.”

“She can tell you some more in the morning.”

The two younger girls looked around and gulped as they saw their mother standing by the door in her robe. They wished their sister good night then started out.

“We only wanted…” Marjorie began.

“There will be plenty of time tomorrow. Now scoot.”

As Marjorie and Juliet went out Carolyn saw that her eldest was lost in her very own dream world. “Good night, sweetheart,” she mouthed then went out and eased the door together.

+++++

Chris paced back and forth in his darkened room like a nervous mountain lion, one of Siddon Banning’s huge nightshirts flapping about his legs.

“So get up the gumption to ask ‘er,” he said softly in the stillness. “Nothin’s gonna happen if’n you don’t. And the boss said you oughtta go ahead and get to know ‘er. You’ve faced down Indians and rustlers and hungry wolves before, so what’s the problem?” He stopped dead, and his face scrunched. “She’s a girl and a mighty fine one, so what’d she want with the likes o’ me?”

His pacing resumed, as agitated as before. He jerked on the long sleeves and hiked them above his elbows. Then he stopped again and snapped his fingers and rushed to his door, threw it open and dashed out into the hall.

Adam was deep in slumber with his face buried in his pillow. He still hadn’t recovered from the long trail and keeping up with Amelia had tired him even further. His dreams – except for the one the other night – were calm for a change. And since his mind had become more settled due to recent events, he was sleeping deeper than he could ever remember. So it took several raps at his door to finally rouse him. “Huh?” he muttered as he turned onto his back. He blinked away some of the sleep and tried to clear some of the fog from his brain. A couple more knocks, and he realized that someone was trying to take his door off its hinges. “What in the world?” he asked of no one, sounding much like his father. He threw back the covers and it dawned on him that he’d gone to bed in the altogether, so he threw on his britches and padded to see who had interrupted his sleep.

“Chris?” he asked incredulously as he blinked hard. “Do you have any idea what time it is?”

“Nope. I need to talk to you about somethin’ important.”

“Well, it had better be life or death, because if it isn’t it will be. Now come on in before you wake up the rest of the household.”

Adam went back to his bed and the boy obediently followed. He dropped onto the soft mattress and Chris stood at the foot.

“All right, what can’t wait until a more decent hour?”

“It’s about Miss Amelia.” Adam groaned. “I want to ask ‘er to go ridin’ with me in the mornin’,” Chris went on, “and I don’t quite know how to go about it.”

“You do know English, don’t you?”

“Course I do.”

“Then you simply go up to her and ask her. But if I were you I’d recommend asking Siddon first. I saw him break a fella’s nose for a lot less once.”

“All right, I can do that. But what do I say? Flowery words and pomes I got no knack for and I figger…”

“Look, you’re a boy, she’s a girl an’ Dunny’s a horse,” he rambled, “and it doesn’t take any fancy words to simply ask her to go riding with you. And imagination isn’t mandatory either.”

“I know all that, but…”

Adam bounded to his feet and took the boy by the shoulders. “Look, you’re a bright lad,” he said as he steered the kid back to the door, “and I have the utmost confidence in you. I mean, how did you handle a situation like this before I came along?”

“I never had a situation like this before ‘cause I never met a girl like Miss Amelia before.”

“But she’s still a girl and it doesn’t take a college graduate to know how to ask her to go horseback riding. Now, you on back to bed and sleep on it and in the morning you’ll see that it isn’t so hard.”

Chris scowled. “All right, Boss, I’ll give it a try. But...”

“Good,” Adam said as he eased to boy out into the hall. “And good night.”

With a shrug Chris started on back to his room. Adam closed the door, peeled out of his britches and fell back into bed. “You and your bright ideas,” he mumbled as he turned over onto his stomach and buried his face in his pillow again.

EIGHT

Adam sat at the dining table alone – a large breakfast in front of him – as Siddon came in.

“Good morning,” Siddon said cheerfully as he poured himself a cup of coffee.

Adam leered at him through his thick, black lashes. “I’ll have to get back to you on that,” he said dryly and stuffed a bite of ham into his mouth.

Siddon froze and watched his friend for several seconds then lowered himself into his chair at the head of the table. “Why so grumpy? Bad night?”

Adam muffled a sarcastic snigger and took a drink of coffee. “There wasn’t a thing wrong with the night that being left alone wouldn’t’ve taken care of. But late, Chris woke me up beating on my door. I’m surprised nobody else heard it. I’d be surprised if they didn’t hear it in Virginia City.”

“What was the problem?”

“Problem,” Adam snarled. “He wanted to ask your daughter to go riding with him this morning, and he didn’t quite know how to go about it.”

Siddon hid a grin with his cup as he took a sip.

“I told him to just come right out and ask her, but I also suggested he ask you first in order to avoid some broken bones,” Adam went on. “So don’t be surprised when he shows up.”

“But that’s not what’s wrong this morning, is it?”

Adam’s dark eyes darted cuttingly at him. “It was well over an hour when I finally went back to sleep. I heard the clock in my room strike midnight and one and believe me, I feel it this morning.” He took a piece of toast and used it to sop up egg yolk. “That’s why I missed breakfast with everybody else.” He poked the bite into his mouth.

“I can see as where that sort of thing would make a man a bit touchy.” It was becoming more difficult for Siddon not to bust out.

As Adam took a drink he noticed Siddon’s pained expression over the rim of his cup. “Oh, so you think this is funny.”

“I’m sorry, Adam,” Siddon said as he took a sip in hopes of stifling a laugh.

“Well, the very next time he wants an answer to a late night question I’ll direct him to you, and we’ll see just how funny you think that is.”

“Oh, you wouldn’t do that.”

“Wouldn’t I?”

Now it was Adam’s turn to sequester a smirk as Chris came in and drew a direct bead on Siddon. “He’s all yours,” he said lowly and busied himself with his food.

Siddon topped off his coffee with fresh as Chris came over to him. “Good morning, son,” he said disarmingly. “Did you sleep well?” His eyes flitted mischievously toward Adam, and he couldn’t miss the sharp light burning in the dark hazel.

“Just fine, sir.”

“I’m glad somebody did,” Adam muttered under his breath and ducked his head.

“Mr. Banning,” Chris went on, “I’d like to have your permission to take your daughter ridin’ this mornin’. It’s awful nice out and I thought she might like to for her birthday.”

“Well, I think that’s very nice, and I’m sure she would. But you’ll have to ask her.”

“Oh, I’m plannin’ on it, but the boss said I should ask you first.”

“Well, he was right to do so.” But then Siddon took on a kind of seriousness as he sipped his coffee. “Of course, you can’t go without being properly chaperoned.”

Chris’ face fell, but only briefly. “Oh, I understand that, Miss Amelia bein’ such a fine girl and all.”

“And I’m sure Adam would love to do it,” Siddon said and gave Adam a hard slap on the back.

Adam’s fork was knocked from his hand and dropped – egg and all – to his plate with a clink, and his eyes went straight to Siddon’s face.

“Wouldn’t you, Adam?” Siddon went on.

Adam’s mouth drew into a knot and his heavy brows fell into a scowl. “Of… course… I… would,” he growled.

“Thanks, Boss,” Chris said excitedly.

“Not at all,” Adam said, his glare staying on Siddon.

“You’ll find her in the ballroom with her mother,” Siddon said.

Again the boy thanked them and rushed out. Siddon kept his attention well away from Adam, who just continued to glare at him.

“Thank you, old friend,” Adam said and threw his napkin onto the table.

“Aren’t you going to finish your breakfast?”

“I just lost my appetite.”

Adam got up and stalked from the room and behind him Siddon Banning burst out laughing. “I’ll remember this,” he said to himself then started for the foyer.

+++++

The sun lit the tops of the huge pines into a yellowish-green as it peeked into the valley. The morning air was heavily scented with them and a trickling stream nearby and bird song added nature’s music to the idyllic scene. Chris rode at the front and Amelia, wearing her newest habit of tan and dark green, was next to him properly riding sidesaddle. And about a foot away coming along behind them – the distance steadily growing – was Adam.

The two young people were wrapped up in polite conversation, but Adam’s mind was filled with sinister thoughts of how to get Siddon Banning back for what he’d done to his supposed friend. Shooting, beating, stabbing and homicide in general were definitely out of the question, so that left everything else. And even though it could take the rest of his life, he had to come up with a punishment fitting of the crime.

“This is the first time I’ve been up this way,” Chris said as he looked around him, “and it’s really purty up here.” His eyes lit on the girl who was oblivious to it. “Yes, sir, mighty purty.”

“Chris,” she said as she looked around at him. “You don’t mind if I call you that do you?”

“Oh, no, ma’am, I’ll find myself right honored if’n you do.”

Her delicate mouth curved into a warm smile. “Could I ask you something?”

“Go right ahead, ma’am, ask me anything you’d like.”

“The other day when Adam introduced us, you wouldn’t tell me your middle name. Now whatever it is, it can’t possibly be so bad, and I would very much like to hear it.”

Chris’ brow puckered, and his nose wrinkled. “Most folks just laugh when I tell it, so I don’t much anymore.”

“I really would like to know, and I promise you that I won’t laugh. Of course, if you don’t want to tell me you don’t have to, and I won’t try to force you.”

Chris’ face went blank for a few seconds. “It’s Travalian,” he said softly.

“Travalian?” Her head tilted and a reflective expression cast over her face. “Christopher Travalian McCutcheon. Why I think that’s a splendid name.”

“You do?” he asked with obvious surprise.

“Of course, I do, and I don’t understand why anyone would laugh at it. It sounds like a senator or…. Governor Christopher Travalian McCutcheon of the great state of Nevada.”

“But this ain’t a state.”

“Oh, everybody knows it’s only a matter of time. Daddy says that with the resources of the Territory that it’s vitally important to get it into the Union as soon as possible. Don’t you agree?”

“Well, I… I don’t…”

“You’re not a Confederate sympathizer, are you?”

“Well, I ain’t thought much about it either way.”

“You really should, you know. Daddy says…”

Adam slumped even more in the saddle and pulled his hat down in front. Now he and Chris were going to be regaled with the wit and wisdom of Siddon Banning.

They continued along the valley trail, Amelia chattering away like a little magpie and Chris hanging on every word. Adam was roused from his morning grump by the invigorating country and fresh air, but thoughts of revenge still hadn’t been quelled. Adam had always been one for retaliation, no matter how long it took, and Stretch loved a good joke, so between the two of them they should come up with something.

Looking up and taking note of the position of the sun, Adam nudged the big chestnut and came alongside Chris. “Before too long it’ll be time for the midday meal. I think it’s time we turned around and headed on back.”

“Oh, Adam, do we have to so soon?” Amelia pleaded. “I’m having such a wonderful time.”

“Maybe you two aren’t’, but I’m getting hungry. And you know how your mother gets when you’re not on time to eat.”

Amelia’s face crumpled. “You’re right, she doesn’t like for us to be late. And I have to admit that I’m getting a little hungry myself.”

With that, they turned and headed back to the house. They picked up the pace and rode a bit more briskly. Carolyn Banning could be a formidable force when riled, and one thing she insisted on from her family was promptness at mealtime. Guests, especially certain guests, were allowed a little more leeway, however, within limits.

They had twenty minutes to spare and plenty of time to get freshened up when they came into the foyer. Adam had pretty much been ignored the whole time and didn’t really care. Things were working out just as he’d planned and it gave him a chance to distance himself from Amelia’s near-constant fawning.

“Oh, Christopher, it was a splendid ride. And you couldn’t have given me a nicer birthday present. Thank you.” She kissed him on the cheek then bounced on upstairs.

Chris stood with his hand against his face and watched until she was out of sight. “She kissed me.”

“She sure did,” Adam said and slapped him on the back. “And I wouldn’t be at all surprised if it happens again.” Then, with a knowing wink, he followed the girl upstairs.

+++++

Adam was standing on the veranda looking out into the rose garden as he worked on his food. As he stood there he became aware of a presence as it rustled alongside him and he looked over at her. “It still surprises me that a logger could do such magic in the kitchen.” And he took a bite.

“Yes, Giles is a real jewel. I’m so glad he attached himself to Siddon’s coat tail ten years ago.”

“Well, I guess since Siddon saved his life from that falling tree, he figures he owes ‘im.”

“And he pays it back everyday. He’s indispensable, and I couldn’t run the household without him.” She went pensive and looked out into the afternoon.

Adam watched her, and he could see the thoughts forming in her beautiful head. “Chris is a fine young man. I wouldn’t’ve brought him along if I hadn’t thought so.”

She looked around quickly at him, and her elegant mouth turned. “I’ve never been able to keep anything from you. You and Giles seem to know what I’m thinking even before I do.”

“Well, I just guessed that since Amelia is so drawn to him you’d just want make sure about him.” He grinned and scooped a bite onto his fork. “So ask away.” He stuffed it into his mouth.

“How well do you know him? I heard him telling Amelia that he’s been working on the Ponderosa for over a year.” She shrugged lightly. “I didn’t want to eavesdrop, so I guessed that if anyone could tell me about him it would be you.”

“Right from the start he seemed to form an attachment to me, and, from what I’ve gathered, he’s told me things he hasn’t anybody else. I think I’m kind of like an older brother.”

“What kind of things?” she asked with a concerned frown.

“He’s the fourth born of five; three girls and two boys. When he was eight his father decided he’d had enough and just up and left. That made his seventeen-year-old brother Pat the man of the house.” He pushed his food around on his plate with his fork. “To help make ends meet and keep the wolf away from the door the boy started taking odd jobs, until he found out that the sheriff needed a deputy, so he took it. It included food and board, and he could take what little he was paid and give it to his mother.”

Carolyn’s wide eyes stayed riveted to Adam’s face, and she remained motionless.

“They were getting by,” he continued, “until the night Pat went to one of the saloons to arrest an unruly drunk. The sheriff was out of town so it fell onto him.”

Black began to dominate the blue of her eyes, and her slender fingers unwittingly knotted.

“He’d known the man most of his life, and he tried everything he could to get him to go to jail,” he continued. “Then for some reason the man pulled his gun and shot the boy, hitting him in the throat.”

Carolyn gasped and a hand flew to her mouth.

“One of the patrons killed the man and they took the boy home to his mother. After that the children were taken in by people in town since there was no other family, and the mother died about a year later. When he was fifteen, Chris just started drifting around. He found he liked ranch work, and he was good at it. But still he was never satisfied in one place for very long, that is, until he came to work for us. He told me he’d decided he wanted to make it his home, but Joe told me that when…” He started pushing his food around again and a somber mask fell over his face.

Carolyn put a compassionate hand on his arm. “Go on,” she said softly as the his eyes came around to her.

“He was with Joe and Hoss when they found that man… they thought was… me…. He was one of the two men that lowered the… coffin into the ground.” He looked away from her and for almost a minute said nothing. “Joe said that he was grieving just like the family and that he planned on leaving…. That he just couldn’t stay there anymore. But Joe managed to talk him into staying for six months, and he could still go after that if he wanted to. But then Joe found…”

Carolyn could see the pain and dark memories reassert themselves. Since his arrival two days earlier this was the only time she’d seen him like this. She adored Adam Cartwright, and it hurt her deeply to see him this way.

Silently, she sidled closer to him and put her head on his shoulder. He let his arm slip around her and tighten to hold her close and together they let the anguish begin to drift away.

Behind them, Siddon stood in the ball room, watching them. He’d heard most of what had been said, and, until now, he hadn’t realized how much pain his friend continued to endure. Like his wife, he thought very highly of Adam. He’d always seemed to be there in the past when Siddon had needed him and now he wanted to return it. He stepped outside and came to stand on Adam’s other side.

Adam felt a strong hand clamp onto his unoccupied shoulder and looked around into the steadfast face of Siddon Banning. Adam smiled as if to say “thank you” and turned his attention back ahead of him. Silently, they stood and let the grief ease.

NINE

The big mansion was ablaze with lights and filling with more life as the guests arrived for Amelia’s party. Siddon, along with Giles, greeted them at the door while Carolyn was upstairs fussing with her daughters. Marjorie and Juliet were as picky about their appearance as their older sister was, as if the party was for their birthdays. And once again Adam had his hands full with Chris.

He used Giles’ tactic of intimidation and it worked like a charm. “Now there,” Adam said as he stepped back and eyed the boy up-and-down. “You’re elegant enough for the first lady of the United States. Take a look.”

Chris came to stand in front of the floor mirror and looked at the young man before him. He was wearing his new striped coat and string tie and one of his new cream-colored shirts. He polished the toes of his boots by rubbing them on the backs of his new britches legs. And his hair had been parted on one side and slicked down.

“You just wait until the young ladies get a look at you,” Adam said with a wicked grin and jabbed him with an elbow. “Now we’d better get downstairs.”

As they left Chris’ room they found Marjorie and Juliet at the head of the stairs. “Are you ladies waiting to be escorted to the party?” Adam asked as they approached the girls.

“Well, Daddy usually does it.” Juliet said.

“There are two gentlemen right here just waiting to be seen with two such attractive young ladies,” Adam said and held his arm out to Marjorie. With a coy smile the girl took it without hesitation and thanked him.

“May I?” Chris asked gallantly as he held his arm out to Juliet, and she took it with a girlish giggle.

The foursome went down to the ballroom and the girls wandered off to meet with friends of their own age. The big room was adorned with splashes of color from bright ribbons draped around the high ceiling. Two large vases of yellow roses sat on either side of the dais where the musicians played a lively ditty, per Siddon’s request. And in one corner was a table with two large crystal bowls filled with punch, one for the young folks and the ladies and the other for the men.

As Adam and Chris stood in the doorway to the large room Siddon joined them. “I thought you’d like to escort Amelia down like you did last year,” he asked as he turned to Adam.

A light of inspiration lit Adam’s dark visage. “Why not let Chris do it this time. I think he looks the part, don’t you, Sid?” Adam said as he straightened the boy’s lapels.

“I most certainly do,” Siddon said with a broad grin. “And I think that’s a great idea.”

Mortification fell over the boy’s face as his deepening teal eyes darted back-and-forth between them. “I couldn’t do that. I think it should be…”

“Nonsense,” Siddon said. “I know that my daughter would be delighted to be seen on the arm of such a handsome young man. Now, go on, they’re waiting.”

“You’ll be fine,” Adam said and gave the kid a nudge on into the foyer. “Right on upstairs.”

Chris went on with one apprehensive look back at them. Adam fanned him on with both hands and mouthed “Go on.” Slowly, he mounted the sweeping staircase, and his legs behaved as if they were cast of lead.

“You know, we really shouldn’t throw him to the wolves like that,” Siddon said as he watched the boy go.

“I know,” Adam said with an ornery smirk, “but I just couldn’t help myself.”

“Which makes me glad I’m you’re friend.”

“Chris is my friend too, and I still remember this morning.”

Siddon’s eyes went to ebony as they shot around to Adam’s face and were met by a most devious, toothy grin. The big man’s crest fell and his mouth went agape. “You wouldn’t.” That one eyebrow went up and Siddon swallowed hard. “You would.”

Siddon went into the ballroom and called for the music to stop and for everybody’s attention. With a nod from him the players struck up a waltz and Amelia came into the room on the arm of Chris, who shot Adam a nervous glance as they passed.

Amelia wore a frothy white dress – made especially for the occasion – embellished lavishly with a myriad of small, light yellow satin ribbons. Pale yellow slippers and a wreath of yellow roses in her hair completed the look.

Two young women, maybe a little older than Amelia, were standing nearby, and Adam couldn’t miss their conversation.

“Who’s that with her?”

“I don’t know, but I fully intend to find out.”

Adam grinned and shook his head.

Siddon took his daughter from the nervous young man and they danced as the guests watched.

Chris quickly joined Adam, and he could see that the boy was a wreck, so he handed the kid a punch. “I figure you’re gonna need quite a few of these before the night’s out.”

“Only two bottles o’ whiskey could get me through this.”

Adam laughed and gave him a slap on the back. The kid took a jolt and his eyes watered as he looked around quickly.

“Siddon’s brandy punch is known to kick like a mule.”

Chris finished it off then went to get another.

Amelia’s dance card was quickly filled and most of them were by Chris. After two punches he settled down and seemed to be enjoying himself. The boy proved to be surprisingly light on his feet for a cowhand, and it was obvious that the girl enjoyed her turns with him. And she seemed to watch closely when he danced with other girls. The third waltz of the evening went to Adam as he took Amelia in his arms.

“I don’t need to ask if you’re having a good time,” he asked as they whirled near the dais.

“I didn’t know anybody could have such a wonderful time, and for two whole nights. But none of it would have been complete if you hadn’t come, and I’m so glad you brought Chris with you.”

“You really like him, don’t you?”

“Yes, I do. He’s charming, and he makes me laugh, but sometimes it’s like he’s embarrassed around me.”

“Chris isn’t used to being with a girl in your society. His family was very poor, and he’s been working for pay since he was nine.”

“I know, he told me today at dinner. And he told me about his family and what happened to his brother. It made me want to cry.”

“I know his background, too, and I think life has finally turned around for him.” He couldn’t miss the doubt that flitted over her face. “What’s that look for?”

“Do you think somebody like him could be interested in me?”

“What do you mean by ‘somebody like him’?”

“Handsome and funny and charming, and he’s seen and done so much more than I have. I know he’s known much more worldly girls than me.”

Adam hid his amusement as they continued to float over the floor. She had once described him in the same way. “I think Chris could be very interested in you. But I think you’re asking the wrong person.”

Her eyes glistened in the brightly lit room, and he couldn’t miss the determination that filled them. And he knew that Amelia Banning had just set her cap for Christopher McCutcheon. He also knew that a bright part of his life had come to an end.

The party continued in the same fashion to eight-thirty when Carolyn called for the music to stop. Then – while everyone watched – a mahogany cart was wheeled in by Siddon and Giles. On it was a large, several tiered cake, lavished in white frosting and the top decorated with yellow and white roses and buds. From an early age, the birthday girl always had the duty to cut her own cake and see that her guests where properly served. And always someone helped her guide the silver server through the cake. Usually it was her father and – for Amelia – the previous year it had been Adam, but for her sixteenth birthday she was being allowed to choose whomever she wanted. She looked about her at the young gentlemen, all eager to be the one chosen. She toyed with them, giving an air of indecision, but her mind had long been made up. She went to Chris – who nearly fell over with surprise – and lightly took his hand. He gave Adam a pleading look as he was pulled toward the cake, but Adam grinned and shook his head.

Amelia could feel the boy’s hands shaking as they firmly gripped hers. And she could also feel her own heart beating a little harder. She adored Adam beyond words and knew that she would always love him, but this was different. And she couldn’t explain how.

Once the cake had been served by Amelia to those who wanted it, she and Chris retreated out to the veranda, each with a slice.

Adam was polishing off his own slice – which Amelia had insisted he take – when he became aware of two young male voices behind him.

“I don’t know what she sees in him. From what I’ve been hearing he’s just a cowhand from some ranch.”

“Some ranch? I heard he came here with Adam Cartwright.”

“And that’s supposed to make any difference? He’s still just a cowboy. Why does everybody around here think that knowing a Cartwright makes them so important?”

“I’ve been asking myself the same thing,” Adam said as he turned around. “And when you figure it out, let me know.”

He couldn’t miss that the young men went pale.

“Y… Yes, sir, Mr. Cartwright,” they both stammered and disappeared as quickly as they could.

He was still savoring the moment when Siddon walked up to him, and he was apparently looking for someone.

“Lose something, Sid?” Adam asked and finished his last bite of cake.

“My wandering daughter. I haven’t seen her since she served.”

“She’s out on the veranda with Chris. But you needn’t worry, he’s been warned.”

“I’m not about him, but I heard Troy Watts and Kyle Lawley talking about taking her away from him.”

“Well, I wouldn’t let it bother me. Giles is right there. And if they’re stupid enough to try anything, they won’t leave in the same condition they came in.”

“Oh, that’d be just fine and dandy.”

“I really don’t think Amelia would mind. I’ve never met a woman yet who isn’t flattered by the thought of men fighting over her.”

Siddon gulped. “It isn’t Amelia I’m worried about. If I let something like this happen Carolyn will absolutely kill me.”

Adam grinned and shook his head as he watched Siddon bustle off toward the side doors that led outside. He stood there for a few seconds then decided that maybe it was a good idea to go after him. It wouldn’t bother him one bit for Carolyn to go for Siddon’s scalp, but he didn’t want to see Amelia’s party spoiled.

TEN

“All right, you two, just calm down!” Siddon shouted as he got between Chris and Kyle Lawley. “I’ll have no fighting here!”

“It’s not Chris’ fault,” Amelia said as her eyes darted harshly to the two troublemakers. “We were just eating cake and talking when Kyle and Troy started pushing him and asking him why he thought he was good enough for me. Then Troy grabbed me too hard by the arm and that’s when Chris got mad.”

Adam and Giles were on either side of Troy Watts, their hands resting ominously on his shoulders.

“Chris was simply standing up for me,” she went on.

“I know that, dear,” Siddon said, the menace growing in his dark eyes. “Mr. McCutcheon is a guest in this house and he will be treated as such. You two were invited by my wife and you have just been uninvited by me, and I want you to leave right now. And if Mr. McCutcheon has anymore trouble from you I will make sure that things become very uncomfortable for you in Bantree. On that you have my promise. And you know that I can do it. Giles, show them out.”

“Yes, sir, Mr. Banning,” Giles said, and he took the two ruffians by the arm and saw them brusquely back inside.

Once they’d gone Siddon turned to Chris. “I’m sorry about that. I didn’t like the idea of having those two here in the first place. They’ve always been trouble, and if they give you anymore grief, you just let me know.” He offered the young man his hand. “Thank you, son, for standing up for my daughter.”

“That was the easy part, sir,” Chris said as he took the big man’s hand and pumped it vigorously.

Siddon put his arm around Amelia’s shoulders and turned her to the door. “Now let’s go back inside before anything else happens.”

Then, as father and daughter started inside, Adam stepped to Chris. “Can’t I take you anywhere?” Adam said with mock disgust.

Chris just grinned and Adam laughed and smacked a hand on his back and they went after Siddon and Amelia.

+++++

The party had wound down and broke up by nine o’clock since so many young people needed to get home to bed. And there had been no more trouble, except for a couple of the men having a little too much of Siddon’s punch and knocking a few things over, requiring further need of Giles’ escort service.

Adam had had a restful, uninterrupted nights’ sleep and felt like taking on the day. He was ebullient as he bounded briskly down the stairs and his boots clacked on the hard marble floor as he made his way back toward the dining room. He hadn’t felt this good since June, in fact, he couldn’t remember the last time that he’d ever felt this good – except as a child – and he had the appetite of a timber wolf.

As he entered the dining room the family and Chris were already gathered around the table and were just dishing up. “Good morning, everybody,” he chimed and took his seat next to Chris.

After salutations were exchanged and plates filled the conversation began. Adam could see that Amelia was still in the clouds. “Looks like one of us still hasn’t come back to earth,” he said with a glance at those around him.

“And she’ll probably be this way for the rest of the day,” Siddon said with a wry grin, and he took a bite of crisp bacon.

“Amelia, dear, your breakfast,” Carolyn said seriously as she placed a hand on her daughter’s wrist.

“How I wish I could be sixteen all over again.”

“Once is more than enough for me,” Siddon murmured as he dipped his head and focused on his food.

“Need I remind you, Mr. Banning,” Carolyn said sternly, “that you will indeed do it again and again.”

Siddon glanced at his two black-haired girls. “I know.”

“So, Chris,” Adam said as he slathered butter and honey on a split biscuit, “what do you have planned for this glad day?”

“Well, I haven’t give it much thought one way or the other,” the boy said and scratched his head.

Amelia was suddenly very much in the real world. “He’s going to take a walk in the garden with me after breakfast. You did say last night that you would.”

“That’s right, ma’am, I did.”

“Well, it looks like one of us is committed,” Siddon said.

“And Giles and the girls are going to help me clean up in the ballroom,” Carolyn said.

Adam couldn’t miss the less than enthusiastic looks on Marjorie’s and Juliet’s faces, and he understood that they both knew better than to protest or complain. The Banning daughters had always been able to pretty much have their way with their father, but with their mother they had always toed the mark.

After leaving the table, everyone – with the exception of Adam and Siddon – went about what they had assigned themselves for the morning. The two really had nothing planned so they went to the study. Adam parked himself on the black leather sofa and completed the look with his black clothing and hair.

Siddon went to his desk and picked up a highly polished ebony wood box. He opened it and took out a cigar then placed it back from where he’d gotten it. “It’s a shame you don’t smoke,” he said as he snipped the end from the tightly wrapped layers of tobacco with a small sterling silver clipper. “A fine cigar after a meal is one of the true pleasures allowed a man.”

“I just never developed a liking for it,” Adam said as he crossed his long legs and stretched his arms out along the back of the sofa. “But I’ve never interfered with another man enjoying it.”

Siddon sat on the corner of his large desk as he lit up. “I heard what you were telling Carolyn about the boy yesterday. I wasn’t trying to eavesdrop – like one who shall go nameless – but I did listen.”

“I don’t mind. I mean, what’re friends for? And you’ve always been a good friend.”

“When we thought…” Siddon shifted his weight on the desk corner. “When we thought you were gone I’ve never felt so alone and empty. It was like having a hole through me that would always be there…. We always know that we’re gonna lose friends and family along the way, it’s just a part of life, but to something like that…. For that you’re never prepared.”

“We’re never completely prepared for death,” Adam said somberly, “even when the person is eighty-nine. We always like to think there’s one more day left.”

“I know,” Siddon said soberly. “Nobody wants to give up on…”

But he was interrupted by the report of a pistol outside. “What in the world?” he said as he came quickly off the desk.

“It sounded like it came from the garden,” Adam said, already on his feet.

“Amelia!” Siddon ground the cigar out in a small brass dish, and he and Adam rushed out.

As they came into the ballroom Carolyn and the girls stood in stunned surprise. Giles was already on the move and could be seen through the French doors running down the path. There were no words, there wasn’t time. Adam and Siddon ran out in pursuit of Giles.

As the three men – followed by Carolyn, Marjorie and Juliet – got out past the path they saw Amelia sitting on the weathered bench. A red bandana was tied around her right arm and Chris was kneeling in front of her. He was placing his mouth against the back of her wrist then spitting to the side.

Amelia looked up at her father with wide, frightened eyes. “A rattlesnake, Daddy,” she said in a tiny, trembling voice.

Adam’s eyes flitted to the ground and the remains of a snake near a lacey handkerchief. Unlike many cowboys, Chris was a dead shot and very rarely missed what he aimed at.

Chris spit again and wiped his mouth with the back of his hand. “I tied it off and I think I got most of it.” He got to his feet and moved back by Adam.

Siddon scooped his daughter into his arms – a froth of white petticoats rustling – and she rested her golden head against his shoulder. “Giles, I want you to ride into town and get Doctor Robey.”

“Lemmee do it,” Chris said. “I got a fast pony.”

“All right, son, go,” Siddon said then started for the house, his wife and daughters following.

Giles gave Chris’ shoulder a squeeze and one could read the gratitude in the man’s face, then he turned and went after the family.

“I’ll help you get her saddled,” Adam said.

“Don’t need a saddle.”

Adam nodded and slapped him on the back and Chris took off for the stable. As the boy ran on Adam spied the kid’s open jackknife lying in the grass – its blade still edged with blood – and picked it up. He cleaned it on a leaf jerked from a rose bush, then closed it and stuck it in his pocket then headed back to the house.

Chris backed Dunny out of her stall, her saddle blanket already over her back. He jerked her bridle from its peg and slipped it onto her head and the bit into her mouth. “Grow wings, Dunny,” he whispered into her ear then grabbed two handfuls of mane and swung onto her back. He crouched low against her neck and rode out at a full gallop.

It didn’t take long for him to ride into Bantree, and as he did Kyle Lawley and Troy Watts were coming along the boardwalk.

“Well, would you look who’s coming,” Watts said scathingly.

“And he seems to be in a real big hurry,” Lawley added. “So why don’t we just do something about that.”

“You heard what Mr. Banning said last…” Watts started.

“He doesn’t scare me,” Lawley said snidely.

As Chris slowed down to ask a grizzled little man where the doctor was they darted out and grabbed either side of Dunny’s bridle. “You’d best let go o’ that,” Chris said through gritted teeth.

“So what’s you’re hurry?” Lawely said cuttingly.

“I need to find the doctor,” Chris said, trying to get Dunny’s head away from them.

“Aww, what’d you do, go and hurt yourself?” Watts asked caustically.

“A rattlesnake bit Miss Amelia and if you don’t get outta my way and somethin’ happens to her I’ll make sure Mr. Banning knows who slowed me down.”

Watts went white, but Lawley wasn’t buying it.

“S… Say, maybe we best let him go,” Watts stammered.

“What for? He’s just saying that so we’ll…”

“What’s going on here?” came in the form of Steve Balasco’s voice.

“I need to get the doctor for Miss Amelia and these two won’t let go o’ my horse’s head.”

“Oh, yes, they will,” Steve said as he drew a small derringer from his red brocaded vest. “Now, let go, boys. I don’t wantta have to shoot you, but that doesn’t mean I won’t.”

The two thugs let go and backed away. “Thanks, Mr. Balasco,” Chris said then nudged Dunny back into a gallop and headed up the street.

“You two better hope that whatever’s wrong with Miss Banning isn’t too serious,” Steve said with a sly smirk, “because if she dies it’s going to be all over town why. And I wouldn’t give a bit for anybody stupid enough to get on Siddon Banning’s bad side, especially concerning his family. Now get out of here before I forget that I’m a law-abiding citizen.”

Lawley and Watts suddenly realized that they weren’t as tough as they thought they were and took off. Steve put the little gun back then snorted and started for The Wooden Nickel.

ELEVEN

Carolyn stayed in the room while Dr. Robey examined Amelia. Adam and Chris and the rest of the family waited in the hall. Siddon had his arm around Marjorie and Adam had charge of Juliet while Chris paced back-and-forth. Giles came up the stairs with a tray of coffee, milk for the girls and sandwiches and placed it on a bureau near the girl’s bedroom door.

“I don’t think we have much of an appetite,” Siddon said.

“And I don’t think it’s gonna help Miss Amelia to starve yourselves and get sick too,” Giles said as he poured a cup of coffee and handed it to him.

“He’s right, Sid,” Adam said as he took a glass of milk and gave it to Juliet. “The doctor got here quick and Chris kept a level head and got to the poison fast.”

“And I want to thank you for that, young man,” Siddon said and took a sip.

“I just did what I had to,” Chris said with a glower. “I’m just sorry I couldn’t get the doctor here any faster. But I got waylaid by those two from last night and they wouldn’t lemme go. If it wasn’t for Mr. Balasco, I’d probably still be there.”

“What do you mean they waylaid you?” Siddon asked, his eyes suddenly onyx.

“Those two that grabbed Miss Amelia last night, they grabbed my horse’s bridle and was teasin’ me. I was about on the notion o’ shootin’ ‘em when Mr. Balasco come along and pulled a little bitty gun on ‘em. Then they was more’n glad to get outta the way.”

Adam could see by the look on Siddon’s face that trouble may be coming. Siddon Banning was a good man, generous to a fault and considerate of others. To him family and friends were more important than money and his wife and daughters were at the center of his world. But he was also not above using his wealth and influence to break those that crossed him. However, the transgression had to be serious to push him that far, and Siddon Banning took the welfare of his family and friends very seriously. Adam could see now the anger welling inside the big man. “Sid,” he said as he took his arm, “let’s just wait and see what happens. Those few minutes may not…”

But he stopped short when the door opened and Dr. Robey stepped out, closing it behind him. All eyes went to him and their concern spoke volumes, but no one said anything.

“She’s a very sick little girl,” the doctor said as he ran his fingers through his gray-tipped dark brown hair, “and she’s going to get sicker before it’s over, but that’s to be expected. But a tourniquet was applied and the poison sucked out quickly and that could make all the difference. And the fact that she’s young and strong will go a long way.”

“But how is she?” Adam asked.

“The night will tell and we should know by morning. Make sure that somebody’s with her all the time and keep her warm and give her plenty to drink.”

“And what if you’d gotten here sooner?” Siddon asked.

“I don’t think it would’ve made any difference. This young man did exactly what I would’ve done and did it quickly, and you got her right to bed.”

“Can we see her?” Siddon asked.

“All right, but for only a few minutes, and try not to disturb her.”

“I’ll wait out here,” Chris said and backed away.

“You most assuredly won’t,” Siddon said as his eyes flashed. “You’ll come right in with the rest of us.”

Amelia was pale and quiet and still as her mother sat on the side of the bed bathing her daughter’s face with a cool cloth. She was dressed in a ruffled pink night gown and her long hair was draped over her shoulders. Her wrist had been bandaged and rested on her stomach, and her breathing was rough.

Juliet began to cry quietly and turned to Adam, and he held her close. Marjorie slipped from her father’s arm and went to Chris – who stayed by the door – and gently took his hand. He let her pull him to the foot of the bed, and her fingers tightened around his as she watched her sister.

+++++

It had been almost three hours since Amelia was bitten and Adam hadn’t seen Chris in a while so he went looking for him. He had an idea where the boy was and went straight to the stable. He hadn’t missed his guess. Chris was in the stall with Dunny and was brushing and talking softly to her.

Adam stepped to the side of the stall and began stroking the little dun’s head and riffling his fingers in her forelock. It all felt so good, and her big brown eyes drifted closed.

“I don’t think I’ve ever seen you so quiet.”

“You didn’t see me back in June or when my brother or my ma died.”

“No, I didn’t.” Adam moved his hand down and rubbed the horse’s nose.

“Adam.”

Adam’s eyes came up quickly at the sound of his own name. “Yes, Chris.”

“Is it too soon to know if you love a girl? I mean, can it happen almost right from the start?” the boy’s gaze never left his hands.

“I’ve heard of it happening at first sight. There’s no place that it’s written and there’s no hard rules as to how long it should take. Every person and every relationship’s different. But believe me, you’ll know it.”

“How?”

“Well, for starters,” Adam said with a slight shrug, “she won’t be like any other woman you’ve ever known. Maybe she won’t be as pretty, but to you she will be. Maybe she won’t be as witty, but to you she will be. She’ll be more special than any other woman. Her laughter will be music and her words a song. You’ll count every minute you’re away from her and savor every one you’re with her. Her touch will be magic and when you look into her eyes it’ll be like your own private paradise.” He put his hand on Chris’ shoulder and the boy went perfectly still. “Is it that way with Amelia?”

Chris slowly looked around and Adam could see the fear and uncertainty in the deep teal. “It’s just like all that you said.” He shook his head and began frantically brushing the horse’s coat. “I didn’t know I could ever feel this way and when those two wouldn’t let me…” He suddenly stopped, and his fingers knotted on the brush.

“You wanted to shoot them.”

Chris nodded. “If Mr. Balasco hadn’t come along when he did I probably would’ve.” He looked back to Adam. “Is she gonna die?”

Adam gave him a reassuring squeeze and smiled. “You heard what the doctor said, she’s very sick. And you’ve seen a man that’s been snake bit before, so you know what to expect.”

“But she’s just a little bitty girl.”

“That’s true, but she’s a strong-willed little girl, and we’re gonna do everything we can to make sure it won’t happen. And prayer wouldn’t hurt.” Adam scrounged in his britches pocket and brought out the jackknife and laid on the top edge of the stall divider. “You forgot this.”

“Thanks,” Chris said then went back to gently currying his horse, and Adam wished he could do more to ease the boy’s worried heart. But words only extended so far and right now they were pretty much worthless. Adam gave him a pat on the back then went back to the house.

+++++

The last rays of the sun turned the sky a deep crimson and turquoise and the calls of the evening birds took on a more plaintive quality. A light breeze played in the trees and ruffled the tall meadow grass as the clouds turned darker for the approaching night. But those in the Banning house didn’t notice, a precious life hung in the balance and that outweighed everything else.

The settee had been taken from Siddon’s and Carolyn’s bedroom and placed against the railing near the head of the stairs. Chris and Adam were content with the floor when they weren’t helping Giles in the kitchen. Coffee flowed like a river and the girls had milk and once a pitcher of lemonade was brought, but little in the way of food was taken.

It was coming around on midnight when Adam slipped into the room with a cup of coffee. Carolyn sat in the chair that had been pulled to the bedside.

“I brought you some coffee,” he said as he handed it to her. “How is she?”

“Her fever’s going up and she’s restless.” She sat the cup on the bed table and began washing the girl’s face. “You have children and you watch after them and you love them and then the day comes when something like this happens…” She ran the cloth over the damp, golden hair.

He put his hand gently on her shoulder. “Why don’t you go out to Siddon and the girls and get some rest? I can sit with her.”

“No, I couldn’t.”

“You’ve got two other daughters that need their mother too. Siddon’s doing the best he can, but they need you and so does he, and I can watch after our girl. Besides, it won’t help anyone to wear yourself out.” He took the cloth from her. “Now, go on, and I don’t want you to come back for at least an hour.” He helped her up from the bed, and her eyes never left her daughter. “We’ll be all right.”

“If there’s any change…”

“You know I will,” and he tenderly eased her in the direction of the door.

Carolyn reluctantly went out to be with the rest of her family. Amelia’s head continued to roll on the pillow as Adam sat down next to her and began washing her face.

“Amelia Banning,” he said softly, “you’re a very special young lady to a lot of people, and one of them is a young man that thinks the world of you.” One corner of his mouth turned as he rewet the cloth. “Adam Cartwright, the matchmaker.” His grin broadened.

He sat in the chair with his eyes closed and head leaned back when his name came softly to him. It repeated once before he looked to see where it was coming from. As he did, he saw immediately a pair of weak blue eyes looking at him. “Well, hello. We were beginning to think you were gonna sleep for the rest of the week,” he said as he rested his arms on his knees. “How do you feel?”

“Sick,” she said wispily, “and I’m… cold.”

“Well, we’ll just have to see what we can so about that.” He got up and put his hand against her sweaty forehead and the fact that she was bit more feverish betrayed itself in his face. “But first you need to drink a little.” He took a filled glass from the bed table and held it to her lips as he gently raised her head. She was only able to manage a couple small sips, and he put it back then blotted her face with a dry cloth. “Now for the other thing.” He threw the covers back then gathered her into his arms and sat back in the chair. He took the comforter from the bed and bundled her into it and leaned back. She snuggled her head into his shoulder with her forehead against his neck. “Better?” He could feel her slight nod and his arms tightened around her. Straightening her long hair down her back, he settled down and felt the child in his arms; to him she would always be the little girl he had first seen hanging onto her mother’s skirt.

It was around twenty minutes later when Siddon decided to check on his daughter. As he drew closer to the door he became aware of a voice inside the room. Quietly, he looked inside and realized that what he’d heard was Adam’s warm baritone.

Eeearly one mooorning just as the sun was riiising,

I heard a maiden singing in the vaaalley below.

Oh, don’t decieeeve me, oh, never leeeave me.

Hooow could you uuuuuse a poor maiden so.

As he started on the second chorus Siddon decided not to disturb them. Smiling warmly, he slipped back out and quietly pulled the door together.

At a little after one-thirty Amelia was shifted to her father’s arms as he took over the vigil for his daughter. In a way Adam was glad for the chance to stretch and maybe get something to eat – among other things – but in another he hated to leave her, even though it was with Siddon.

The first thing he noticed as he stepped out into the hall was the disarray of people. Carolyn was lying on the settee and the girls were huddled together beneath a blanket in the floor near their mother, all three asleep. Chris sat next to the bedroom door with his back against the wall and head drooped and arms wrapped around his knees.

The house was so quiet an ant scurrying over the marble floor in the foyer could have been heard. He stretched his arms and rubbed at the kink in his back, and he felt the sudden desire to go outside.

He made his way gingerly down the stairs and went through the ballroom where the last vestiges of Amelia’s party were still present. He tried not to look at them – he certainly didn’t want to see them – as he went out through a pair of the French doors.

Standing on the veranda, he looked out into the darkness toward Carolyn’s rose garden and hated to think what would happen to it should the girl die. He could just imagine the bereaved parents pulling up bush after bush of red, yellow, white and pink blooms and having Giles burn them. The love that these two people had for their daughters was as wide, deep and abiding as that which Ben Cartwright held for his sons.

It came to him in a wave what it had been like for his father when he’d thought his oldest son had been killed. What it had been like to look into the wagon bed at that man without a face and believe it was his boy. He hadn’t been there, of course, but it had been related to him by his brothers. He’d always guessed what Pa would be like if, Heaven forbid, he should lose a son, but this he hadn’t been prepared for: the drinking, the isolation and the starvation. The journeys to the grave he understood, but the rest was beyond comprehension and a part of him felt guilty for it. Joe and Hoss had tried talking him out of this silly notion, but a large part of it was because of him.

“Thinkin’?”

Adam looked around as Giles stepped next to him. “Just remembering.”

Giles nodded. “Yep, since the first part o’ June there’s been a lot to think about and remember. But it wasn’t anybody’s fault but a man who liked to hurt way too much and a snake just goin’ by its nature. We sometimes find ourselves caught up in things that ain’t our doin’ and we get pulled along whether we want to or not. But blamin’ ourselves for it is kinda like droppin’ a hammer on our foot and blamin’ the hammer. It doesn’t make sense and it doesn’t help a thing.”

It went quiet except for the wind and they looked out into the night.

“Thank you, Giles,” Adam said without looking around.

“Don’t mention it.” He said and turned to go back inside but stopped. “If you want a sandwich I’ll be in the kitchen.” Then he padded into the house and Adam was alone again.

He knew Pa and Joe and Hoss didn’t blame him for what had happened and never would, and maybe he could get over any guilt feelings he had. But that was of little concern right now, and he felt the sudden need to get back inside and check on her. First though, he needed to take care of a certain function and maybe take Giles up on the offer of food. He went back in through the large room and kept his eyes directed to the floor until he reached the foyer.

TWELVE

The golden coral light of dawn peeped over, around and through the trees. A soft breeze drifted in through a window in the end of the upstairs hall that Giles had opened to alleviate some of the stuffiness in the house. It wafted its way down the stairs and filled the foyer with the scent of pine.

Giles brought up a tray with more coffee and some milk and toast, since food still wasn’t in any big demand. At the moment Adam was with Amelia and Siddon decided to relieve him after he’d had a cup of coffee.

Adam sat in the chair with his head leaned over against the side of it and his eyes closed. The girl had been returned to the bed along with the comforter and two extra blankets. She was still very pale and hadn’t moved in a while.

Siddon eased in making as little sound as possible and moved with the tread of a cat to the foot of the bed. His dark eyes sparkled and his smile spanned from ear to ear. “Adam,” he whispered as he placed a light hand on his friend’s shoulder. “Adam.”

Adam awoke with a startled jerk and looked at Siddon, who gave a nod toward the bed. As his eyes came around his heart began to thump erratically in his chest. He sat down next to the girl and felt her face. “The fever’s gone down,” he said as his dark hazel linked with the soft blue looking back at him. “But she’s still warmer than she should be.”

Siddon went to the door and stuck his head out into the hall. “Guess who’s awake,” he said and the room was suddenly filled, including Giles and Chris.

Adam got up as Carolyn came to sit next to her daughter. “How do you feel, sweetheart?” she asked as he pushed the damp hair back from Amelia’s face.

“A little… hungry,” Amelia said weakly and tried to smile.

“Well, I think some lightly buttered toast and a little milk is just the thing,” Carolyn said as tears rimmed her eyes. She leaned forward and kissed her daughter on the forehead then looked into the girl’s face. “Don’t you ever frighten us like that again, do you hear me?”

Amelia was only able to manage a feeble nod, and then her eyes began seeking out those she cared for. They lit on Adam first and her delicate lips parted. They then drifted to her father and sisters and from there to Giles, but when they finally reached Chris; Adam saw a light fill them that had once been reserved for him, though this was somehow different. He looked at the boy and saw the same returned, and he was pleased.

+++++

As promised, the doctor came back to see about his young patient. Siddon and Carolyn stayed in the room while he checked over their daughter and everyone else waited in the hall. After quite a few minutes, they came out and Carolyn was weeping with her head against her husband’s chest. And it was obvious that they all feared the worst.

“Siddon?” Adam asked with uncertainty and trepidation.

“She’s going to be just fine, but you know how mother’s are,” he said as he kissed the side of his wife’s head and his arm squeezed around her.

“And she has a right to be,” the doctor scolded mildly and grinned, “so you leave her alone, Siddon.”

A collective sigh of relief filled the hall as one gigantic breath. The sisters hugged each other and the gladdened tears began. Giles slapped Adam on the back and he, in turn, did the same to Chris.

“Now I want you to make sure that she doesn’t try to get up too soon. I’ll come back along to check on her progress, but she should be on her feet before long.”

After that Giles became a cooking fool as appetites returned threefold. The doctor was asked to stay for breakfast before going back into town and happily accepted.

The day moved along at a bit quicker pace than the previous one. Now that they knew Amelia was over the worst of it life could resume.

Adam was in his room getting his stuff together when a knock came at the door. “Come in.”

Siddon came in, some of the haggard lines erased from his broad face. “I wanted to…” but the words froze as he saw what Adam was doing. “Packing? You’re not planning on heading out today?”

“No,” Adam said as he stuffed one of his shirts into the saddlebags, “we’ll head out in the morning. I have work that I need to get back to, and so does Chris. And now that I know that Amelia’s gonna be all right I think it’s time.”

“Does Chris know?”

“I figured to tell ‘im when I get done here.” He folded his dress coat and put the string tie in one of its pockets. “We’ll turn in early and head out first light.”

“Why in such a hurry?”

Adam looked around slowly and one side of his mouth turned as the single eyebrow rose. “I guess I just need to get back home. For the first time I think I’m really beginning to understand what everybody went through when I… when they thought… Watching you and your family and all that you share with each other, I suppose I kinda got a little homesick.”

“I can understand that. You were away from them for so long and even after you got back to the Ponderosa. And now that things are starting to put themselves back together it’s only natural.” Siddon came to stand next to him and clamped a hand on his friend’s shoulder. “But you’re a part of this family too and always will be, and you don’t need an invite to come here.”

“I know that, Sid.”

“Now, the reason I came in here was to ask if you’d like to go hunting with me. Amelia absolutely loves wild duck and Giles has a way of fixing it that melts in your mouth. And it’ll give us a chance to talk and Chris a chance to visit with Amelia without her father hanging around.”

“I’d really like that,” Adam said with a nod.

“Good. I’ll go load us up a couple guns while you finish here and wait for you at the bottom of the stairs.” He gave Adam a slap on the back and went out.

Adam shook his head with a snort and went back to his packing. A man was fortunate to know one such person in a lifetime that he could call ‘best friend’, but Adam had been blessed to know two: Ross Marquette and Siddon Banning.

+++++

Adam and Siddon tramped on through the overgrowth. Anyone who knew anything knew that waterfowl liked the water and there was a fairly large pond not far from the house. The late morning sun beat down but was softened by the shadows of the huge trees. Shafts of light filtered through in places and kept it from being too gray.

“It’s been a while since we’ve done this,” Siddon said as he carefully picked his way along. “Way too long. As much as I love Carolyn and the girls it’s good to get out every now and again.”

“I can’t imagine you ever wanting to be away from them.”

“Don’t misunderstand what I’m saying, I love ‘em to pieces, but sometimes it’s just good to get out and do the kind of things men do. And after what’s been going on with Amelia...”

“I know.”

They came to where a half grown pine had fallen across the path – such as it was – and it took a little extra effort to navigate over it. One would hold the guns while the other scrambled across.

“You know,” Siddon puffed as he slid down from the trunk, “I’m glad you brought that boy with you. He’s polite, and his quick thinking saved my daughter’s life. Most of the ones around here would’ve panicked or not even known what to do and it could’ve been a lot worse.”

“Chris is a good man, all right.” Adam said as he handed Siddon his gun. “He’s one of our top hands and I’d trust ‘im with my life.”

“I trusted him with Amelia’s, and he didn’t let me down. The doors to the Banning house will always be open to him. And if he ever needs anything all he need ever do is ask. And I wouldn’t mind having him as a son-in-law one bit.”

Adam’s eyes flashed around. “How long have you known?”

“The night of the party. A father doesn’t miss how his daughter looks at a boy, at least, this one doesn’t.”

“Well, you could do worse than Chris McCutcheon.”

“Yeah,” Siddon started with a snort, “she could marry Kyle Lawley.”

Adam watched his friend’s face closely for any hint that revenge could be lurking behind the chocolate brown eyes. But if it was there he caught no trace of it.

Their deep voices melded into the trees as they forged on, now and then to be punctuated by hearty male laughter. After the night they had just come through this hunt was like a tonic and it helped to reinstate a bond that Vince Decker had very nearly put an end to.

+++++

When the two weary hunters rounded in they had been gone for just over an hour. They had bagged three fat drakes, all falling prey to Adam’s marksmanship. Usually an excellent shot, Adam surmised that Siddon’s mind hadn’t been on shooting. But it didn’t matter; it had been a good way to renew a friendship.

Adam knocked lightly at the bedroom door then went on in. “I thought I’d bring you some supper,” he said brightly as he went to the bed and placed the tray on the table next to it.

“I’m not as hungry as I was this morning,” Amelia said softly in a little girl’s voice.

“That’s understandable, that poison can make you pretty sick. But it was gotten at quickly. Now let’s sit you up a little.” He raised her gently and put both pillows behind her.

“Chris saved my life, didn’t he?”

“That he did,” he said as he leaned her back. Then he put the tray on her lap.

“Did you know that in China if you save somebody’s life, that you’re responsible for that life?”

“Really?” he said as the single eyebrow rose. Of course he knew, Hop Sing had told him when he was a boy. He stifled a grin and went about innocently unfolding her napkin for her. “Well, don’t you think that maybe you ought to tell ‘im?”

“I intend to.”

“Now, eat your duck. Giles has worked hard to fix it just the way you like it.”

“I will if you’ll stay.”

His eyes narrowed, and he cocked his head to one side. “That’s blackmail.”

She grinned furtively.

“All right, while you eat, and then you need to get some more rest.”

He settled himself into the chair as she took a tentative first bite of the dark, succulent meat. It was good to see the enjoyment – faint as it was – flit over her lovely young face. He watched her as she took a sip of her milk and the words that foreshadowed what was to come stampeded into his mind: “A rattlesnake, Daddy.”

As Adam was coming down the stairs with the tray Carolyn was coming up. The glass was empty but only about half of the food was gone.

“She didn’t eat much,” she said as her eyes roamed over the plate.

“Actually, I thought she did pretty good, considering what she’s just been through.” A warm smile touched his dark eyes. “She was asleep before I left the room.”

Exhaling on a sigh, she looked up at him. “Siddon says you’re leaving in the morning.”

“That’s right. We need to get back to the Ponderosa, and I have no doubt that Joe and Hoss are grousing about the extra work and Pa I don’t even like to think about. He didn’t want me to come in the first place.”

A weary dolefulness crept into her expressive eyes, and she suddenly looked older than her thirty-seven years. “I don’t wonder, after what happened.” She swallowed hard and shook her head. “I don’t know if I’ll ever be able to let any of my girls go back into that garden again.”

“Of course, you will. We can’t live our lives always afraid of bad things might happen and never enjoying the good things that do. Life’s too short to live always in fear. You’ll let them go back, and you, Siddon and Giles will be more wary.”

She came up the two steps to stand next to him. Tenderly, she put a hand against one cheek and kissed the other. “I love you, Adam Cartwright, for the brother I never had, and I don’t ever want to know life again without you in it.”

He watched her as she trudged tiredly up the stairs with elegant grace and disappeared into her daughter’s room. Carolyn Emmaline Danton Banning was a beautiful woman in mind, body and spirit, and he hoped that someday he would be as fortunate as Siddon. His fine mouth curved into a warmhearted smile, and he started on down.

+++++

As Adam’s knock was answered he went into Chris’ room and found him packing his saddlebags. The boy was just folding up his new coat as Adam stepped to the footboard. “Looks like you’re gonna have a little trouble getting it all in there.”

“A little bit, maybe, but I’ll make it do,” Chris said as he stuffed it in with the rest of his new clothes.

“And what about your new hat?” Adam asked as he took the lid off the box on the foot of the bed. “I don’t think you want to poke it in there.”

“Mr. Banning said to just go ahead and leave it here for when I come back.”

Adam’s head jerked up, and his mouth drew in. “Come back? Well, you’ll just have to do that. Nobody ever turns down an invitation from Siddon Banning.” One eyebrow rose. “It just isn’t done.”

“Nope, I don’t ‘spect it is, and I wouldn’t want to anyway. They’ve been real good to me, just like you and your pa and brothers. They let me stay in their big fine house, and me just a cowhand. They treated me like I’m somebody.”

“You are somebody, Chris,” Adam said as he took hold of the boy’s shoulder and squeezed. “I’ve seen men of high society that aren’t half the man you are. And don’t you ever sell yourself short, got that?” He added a wink.

“I won’t,” the kid said with a crooked grin. “I think Miss Amelia’d shoot me if’n I did.”

“I imagine she would. Have you seen her yet?”

“For a few minutes while Mrs. Banning waited out in the hall. Did you know that in China when you save somebody’s life you’re responsible for it?”

“I have heard something like that,” he said with a serious frown. “Now, you go ahead and get a good nights’ sleep because we’ll be heading out at the crack o’ dawn.”

“I will, Boss.”

Adam’s body slumped with a jerk, and his arms dropped to his side. “I give up,” he said shaking his head. Then – with a snigger – he turned and walked out. With an ornery grin, Chris resumed his packing.

+++++

Before turning in, Adam looked in on Amelia. He wanted to say good-bye since he didn’t expect to see her in the morning. But as he quietly stepped to the side of the bed he realized that she was sleeping, and he didn’t want to disturb her. His eyes drifted over the delicate features – softened even more by sleep – and smiled. He tenderly pushed a strand of damp hair back from her face then bent and kissed her on the cheek, but she didn’t stir. “Good-bye, sweetheart. Happy birthday,” he whispered then softly left the room.

THIRTEEN

“I really do wish you two could stay a little while longer,” Siddon said as he watched Adam and Chris readying their horses. “You both gave Amelia a birthday she’ll never forget.”

“Well, you and Carolyn had a small part in it,” Adam said with a smirk as he gave Sport’s cinch a tug. “And don’t forget about Giles’ cake.”

“An’ your brandy punch,” Chris threw in.

Siddon dropped his head with a groan and winced. “Broke Carolyn’s mother’s punchbowl. And don’t think I’ll ever hear the end of it either.”

Adam and Chris shared a quick, knowing look over Dunny’s saddle.

“But it could be worse,” Siddon went on. “They could’ve broke her grandmother’s too.”

“That would’ve gotten you maimed, my friend,” Adam said with a sharp glance.

“Thank goodness for small favors,” Siddon said with a twisted scowl. “They’re all going to be sorry they missed you, but after the last few days they’re just plain exhausted. Carolyn didn’t leave Amelia’s room all night. I found her on the bed this morning with her arms around the girl, both sound asleep.” His deep brown eyes drifted to Chris. “And if it wasn’t for you, son, I don’t even like to think about how it could’ve turned out.”

“Bein’ out on the range so much this wasn’t the first snake bite I ever run across. A few of ‘em in my own hide. And Miss Amelia was real brave through the whole thing. You can be real proud of ‘er.”

“We are,” Siddon said and clapped a hand on his back. “And if you ever need anything, you just let me know.”

“You already done enough by treatin’ me so good, and then when you said I could come back.”

“Anytime you want to you’ll always be welcome. And you,” he said as he gouged Adam in the ribs, “try not to stay away so long this time.”

“I’ll do my best, Sid, you know that,” Adam said softly. Then a rakish gleam entered his eyes. “And don’t think for a second that I’ve forgotten the other morning.”

“Are you still stewing about that?”

“No, but revenge is a dish best served cold.” Then the familiar Cartwright grin touched his mouth, and he poked his friend in the chest.

They were just leading their horses out when Giles came into the stable with an unbleached muslin drawstring bag. “Here’s enough grub to get you home,” he said as he handed it to Adam.

“You didn’t have to do that. We were gonna provision up in town.”

“Nonsense,” Siddon said robustly. “And why is it you always argue about this? Friends help friends, remember?”

“I remember,” Adam said as he hung the bag over his saddle horn. “Well, Sid,” and he held his hand out, “as always, I’ve enjoyed being with you and the family, but home beckons.”

Siddon shook the proffered hand heartily. “Not anymore than we’ve enjoyed having you. Both of you.”

“Giles,” Adam said as he took the man’s hand, “I know I don’t have to say this, but take care of ‘em.”

“You know I will, and you take care of yourself. We don’t wantta havta go through another June.”

“Son,” Siddon said as he shook hands with Chris. “Whenever you want to come up here you don’t have to wait on the likes of him. You just get on that little dun and come ahead on. We’ll all be glad to see you, and I think most especially Amelia.” He playfully nudged the boy in the shoulder.

Adam couldn’t miss Chris blush, and his eyes connected briefly with Siddon’s.

“It’s one of my real pleasures gettin’ to you,” Giles said as he and Chris shook hands. “And after what you did for our girl no favor’ll be too big.”

Chris thanked him then the four of them left the stable. Adam and Chris mounted up as Siddon and Giles stepped back.

“Give Carolyn and the girl’s my love and tell Amelia I’m glad she liked the Peach Flambé.”

“I sure will. Now you two take care and tell Ben and the boys I said ‘hello’.

“Just as soon as we get home,” Adam said then he and Chris urged their mounts on and headed down the drive for town.

+++++

After leaving Bantree Adam and Chris took the same route back they had taken before and stayed well away from the main road. And they made camp fairly earlier than usual.

Chris crouched in front of the fire and poured himself some coffee. “You all right, Boss? You ain’t said a wit’s worth o’ words since we left town.”

“I’m all right,” Adam said and took a sip.

“Maybe you’d feel better talkin’ about whatever’s on your mind. My ma always used to say I was ‘the listenin’est boy’ she ever did see. I always seemed to hear what I wasn’t supposed to.”

Adam grinned and took a drink, but as he wrapped his hands around the warm tin cup his face went dead solemn. “I still haven’t told anybody what happened to me that day coming out of Bantree,” he said as he stared into the coffee. “But I’m gonna tell you now because I have to tell somebody, and I don’t think my family’s ready for it.”

“But why me? Why not Mr. Banning or Mr. Balasco? Or maybe…”

“Because you know what it’s like to trail heard cattle in a storm and to ride lonesome, never knowing what or who’s around the next bend. What it’s like to have a stranger come into your camp and wonder if he wants a cup of your coffee or your money and your horse and doesn’t care one bit to shoot you to get both.” He began absentmindedly fingering the cup. “And because I trust you.”

Then the dark hazel eyes raised and Chris gulped. The firelight glinted in them, and he’d never see the boss look so lost. He knew he wasn’t prepared to hear what this man had gone through, but he also knew that one never turned away a trust. “All right, Boss, I’m listenin’.”

Adam’s hands tensed and he had to fight hard, not to form the words in his head but to make them leave his mouth. It all came storming back at him, and he wanted to push it away, but he knew it was time not to. “I rode up on him right as I was getting to the fork. He said his horse had fallen in a chuck hole and broke his leg and he had to shoot him. He seemed a right enough fella and a pleasant sort.” His breath whistled in through his teeth. “But before I could do anything else he pulled a gun on me and said to get down. And the minute I touched ground, something in his eyes told me I was in more trouble than I’d ever been in.”

Chris sat mesmerized and – at the same time – horrified at what he was hearing. The taunts and ridicule and then the beating. Not just beating, but pistol whipping and kicking and leaving him stripped nearly naked and dying by the road. His left hand clenched and he could almost feel his pistol in it. He’d been taught by his mother that it was wrong to hate, but at this moment he hated Vince Decker with every fiber of his being.

“I don’t know how long I was out there before Lee Haymes found me and took me home with him. If it wasn’t for him and his wife and a man named Statler, I wouldn’t be here.” He looked back into the coffee. “And then Joe found me and the rest you probably know.”

After that only the sounds of the night could be heard. Both men sat transfixed and neither moved. It was as if Adam’s revelation had stunned them beyond the capability to do so.

As he stared at the ground between his feet, Adam became aware of a presence sitting on the log next to him. Then he felt a reassuring pressure on his shoulder and when he slowly looked around found he was gazing into the depths of dark teal eyes. They seemed to comfort the bodily ache that had settled into him.

Then one corner of Adam’s mouth turned up, and he slapped the kid against the leg. “Let’s turn in so we can get an early start.”

“All right, Boss.”

And right then Adam understood that ‘boss’ wasn’t coming from a worker to the man he worked for, but from one friend to another. “You win.”

Chris’ fingers tightened and the friendship deepened. They threw their coffee on the ground and then went on to bed.

+++++

The next two days and one night were uneventful and they made good time. It was a little after three in the afternoon on the third day when they rode into the yard. Joe was sitting on the edge of the front porch cleaning his pistol when he saw them. His face brightened and one could quite literally see the anguish melt away.

“Hello, brother, Chris,” Joe said as nonchalantly as he could.

They pulled up in front of him and got down. “I’ll take care o’ the horses, Boss,” Chris said as he took the reins.

“All right, Chris,” Adam said as he slid his saddlebags from Sport’s back. As he did their eyes caught and were held. “And thanks.”

“Don’t mention it,” Chris said with a knowing nod and started for the barn with Sport and Dunny.

“Well, did you enjoy yourself at the Banning’s?” Joe asked, forgetting his gun for the moment.

“Yes, I did. Where’re Pa and Hoss?” and he looked around him.

“They’re out inspecting fence line. Somebody had to get Pa outta the house before he drove us all crazy. But he’ll be all right now that you’re back. You still haven’t told me how things were at the Banning’s. How was the party and supper at Tabler’s?”

“Fine, Joe,” he said with a thoughtful shrug. “I’ll tell you about it later and a few other things, but right now I want to get some of this trail dust off of me.”

“And how did Amelia like that special birthday gift you took her?”

Adam’s mouth drew in, and he gave a wistful nod. “She liked it just fine. In fact, I think he’s gonna go back.”

It took about a second for what his brother had just said to register with Joe. “He?” he said as his soft brows knitted together.

A wily light danced into Adam’s eyes as he slung his saddlebags over his shoulder, and he started inside.

“What do you mean ‘he’? What’re…?” Joe scrambled to his feet, his expression growing more confused. “What’re you talkin’ about? What do you mean ‘he’?”

But Adam kept right on going and on inside.

“Hey, Adam, what did you mean?” Joe said as he started in after him. “What kind of gift did you take her anyway?”

Adam and Stretch were home and things were going to be a whole lot more interesting from now on.

THE END

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