The Surprise
by
Janice Sagraves

ONE

The big chestnut shot through the brambles after the recalcitrant cow, heedless of their sharp fingers. It wasn’t anything new for Adam Cartwright to come over and help his neighbor and good friend Lee Haymes round up his cattle. Adam, as yet, had none of his own, he had been too occupied at home to go get them, and so when it came time, Lee didn’t have to ask him, he volunteered. And the sleek animal between his legs made it a pure joy.

*******

Angelica Cartwright hadn’t seen her husband since the night before. He had stayed in the barn taking care of Sport, who hadn’t been feeling so well in the last three days. Breakfast would soon be put on the table, and she guessed he had probably become preoccupied and hadn’t given the subject a second thought.

Even though it was the last of April a nippy bite still lingered in the air and snow yet clung to the ground in small patches. She took her heavy woolen paisley shawl from the rack by the sturdy oak front door and went out putting it over her shoulders. She tripped lightly down the steps in the early morning mist, now so much easier since the birth of her sons, though she still hadn’t shed some of what Adam teasingly called her ‘baby fat’.

Her kid high button shoes scuffed the ground as she crossed the yard toward the barn. Removing the bar, she opened back one of the large doors and went inside. The moment she did, her deep violet eyes went wide, and she sucked in a breath as one hand went to her throat. “Adam,” she said softly.

Her husband looked around at her just as he cocked the rifle.

“What’re you doing?” she asked as she stepped next to him.

“The only thing I can.”

She looked back to where the beautiful red chestnut lay in a bed of straw and groaned way down inside.

“But I thought he was getting better.”

“I hoped he was, but I was only fooling myself. After supper last night I found him like this…. I cleaned him up when we got home, but one of those scratches simply insisted on going septic.” His dark hazel eyes set on her face. “That leg is perfectly useless, he can’t even move it…. He’s suffering, Angel, and I’ve done everything I can…. It’s hopeless, and this is all that’s left.”

“Are you sure?”

“I’ve been around horses all my life. Do you think I’d be doing this if I weren’t sure?”

Her gaze slowly returned to the horse bathed in the warm glow of the lantern, auburn light burnishing his coat. She got down on her knees and began stroking the soft, sweaty neck. The sound the animal was making cut into her like a keen knife, and she could feel the sense of loss closing in around her. With a shudder, she gathered her skirt and petticoats and came to her feet.

“Now you’d better go back into the house. This won’t be pleasant.”

She just looked at him, moisture rimming the bottoms of her black fringed eyes.

“Go on.”

She put a consoling hand against his cheek then made it as far as the opened doorway and turned back to him.

“Go back into the house, Angelica.”

With a final glance at Sport, she went out and started across the yard.

Maggie O’Shea was just putting breakfast on the table in the dining room side of the large ell-shaped room when Angelica came in. “Breakfast is ready,” she said in her hearty Irish brogue. “Is Mr. Adam coming behind you?”

Angelica didn’t answer and made a line straight for the bedroom, eyes ahead and the shawl still over her shoulders.

“Miss Angelica?”

Angelica went into the bedroom, closed the door behind her and stepped to the cradle. This one – which Adam had toiled over, with Chris McCutcheon’s help – was wider and could hold all three babies. Angelica looked down on her sleeping sons and couldn’t resist the temptation to pick one up. He hardly woke and immediately settled in his mother’s arms as she sat in the chair by the window. Cradling the infant close to her bosom she rested the side of her face against the small black-capped head and closed her eyes

The rifle shot shattered the silence and touched every room in the rambling, white, two-story house. Angelica flinched and gasped, and her hold tightened on the little guy. Startled, his baby-blue eyes opened, and – after a second to decide if he was frightened or not – his wail bounced from the ceiling to the floor. Not to be outdone, his brothers joined in.

Angelica didn’t hear the door open behind her, but she felt the strong hand on her shoulder. She leaned into it and let it comfort.

Adam went to the cradle and picked up the two crying little boys and sat on the side of the bed with them, one in the crook of each arm. He looked down at the small bundles of agitated humanity, and a smile turned the corners of his finely sculpted mouth. Absentmindedly, he began to bounce and rock, but they were not to be placated any more than their brother.

Adam had just lost a dear friend, and he let his sons fill the void that passing had left.

*******

It had been two days since Adam had been forced to do something that came all too frequently in this part of the country. Since then he had ridden different mounts, never staying with one for very long. Angelica could see – though he didn’t say anything – that it just wasn’t the same and probably never would be.

The aroma of fresh baked bread permeated the house like the finest Paris perfume. Angelica had just gone into the kitchen as Maggie was taking the last loaf from the oven.

Angelica took a deep breath as she stepped to the small table where the rest of the loaves were. “I love that smell, especially on a cold day. It’ll make you hungry even if you’ve already eaten a banquet.”

“That it will, mum,” Maggie said as she sat the pan on the table to cool. “Where’s Mr. Adam?”

“He went into town to get the mail.”

“But that was almost two hours ago.” She clicked her teeth as she shook her gray-streaked mahogany head.

“Yes, he has been staying away a bit more lately.”

“You mean since he had to put his horse down.”

Angelica stood perfectly motionless, and a frown creased her delicate brow. “He did so love that animal. Sport was a coming home gift from his father when he returned from college, you know?”

“No, mum, I didn’t.”

“He was four-years-old and green broke when Adam first set eyes on him,” Angelica said with a nod.

“Green broke?”

“Yes, he was just learning to take the saddle and bridle and having someone on his back.” She grinned mildly and the light from the window twinkled in her eyes. “And Adam said he thoroughly refused to cooperate until a storm changed things.”

Maggie placed a large cloth over the cooling loaves of bread. “A storm?”

“Lightning struck a tree and a limb fell, and trapped him, and that stubborn husband of mine refused to leave him until he was freed. After that they seemed to have a better understanding, and they became the greatest of friends.” Angelica heaved a heavy sigh. “Sport was more than just a horse…. He was a member of the family.”

The two women stood quietly until the sound of a commotion out in the front yard caught their attention.

“Riders, and a lot of them by the sound of it,” Angelica said as she turned from the table. “Adam was alone, and we aren’t expecting anyone.” A bit of concern streaked through her lovely face. “Well, I guess I’d better go see who it is.”

Maggie watched her as she went out into the dining room then went to her room off to the side of the kitchen. When she came back out she had a loaded double barrel shotgun gripped in her right hand. They had been caught off guard once before and it wasn’t going to happen again. Not if she had to kill every man out there in a pile. She reached into her apron pocket and came out with a box of shells just for the reassurance that they were there then put them back and followed after her mistress.

TWO

The yard was filled with mounted men as Angelica stepped out onto the front porch.

“Father Cartwright! Joe! Hoss!”

“Hello, daughter,” Ben Cartwright said briskly. “Is it all right if we get down?”

“You should be ashamed to even ask such a thing. Of course you can.”

“Okay, boys. The lady says it’s all right,” Ben said with a broad grin, and his roguish coffee eyes darted to Angelica as he left the saddle.

“I am delighted to see you, but you should’ve let us know you were coming.”

“It wouldn’t have been a surprise then.” Ben gave his reins to one of the hands then started up the steps. “We brought Adam’s cattle to him. With him being so busy, and his birthday coming up we decided this’d be the right time.”

Angelica held out her arms to receive his hug. “I’m just glad you’re here.”

“What about us?” Joe Cartwright asked, his emerald eyes flashing.

She threw her arms around him and it felt so good.

“An’ me?” Hoss Cartwright said and jabbed himself in the chest with his thumb.

“I could never forget you.” His powerful arms encircled her and finished soothing. “Now let’s go into the house.”

“Absolutely, I want to see my grandsons.”

Ben told the men to take care of the horses and see about getting something to eat then he, and his sons went inside with her.

A fire blazed in the hearth and took the chill from the large room.

“Adam went into town and should be home anytime,” Angelica said as she hung her shawl on the stand by the front door. “He’ll be so glad to see you.”

“Now where’re those boys?” Ben said eagerly as he rubbed his hands together in anticipation.

With a slight nod of her dark brown head they followed her into the bedroom. She stepped to the cradle and beamed radiantly.

“Such handsome boys. They look just like their father did at this age.”

“I kind of suspected that.”

“But how do you tell ‘em apart?” Hoss asked as he looked down at them.

“We have our ways.”

“Do you realize that we don’t even know their names?” Joe said.

“We wanted to save that for when you got here.” Angelica bent over and gently scooped up one of the sleeping babies. “This is Benjamin Erik,” she said as she placed her son in his grandfather’s arms.

It was obvious from the start that Ben was comfortable holding a baby and an old hand at it. He examined the petite fingers and the fine mouth exactly like his father’s. His heart swelled at the feel of his grandson close against his chest. Tears burned behind his eyes as he placed a tender kiss on the soft, peach-fuzzy forehead.

“This is Hiram Jason,” Angelica said and put the least of the three in the massive arms of his uncle.

“After your pa and brother that got killed.”

“That’s right.”

Hoss loved babies, whether they had two legs or four. For such a large man it amazed some people at how gentle he could be, but that wasn’t so to those who really knew him. Hoss could see Adam in the little one he held, and it amazed him at how identical he was to his brothers.

“And this is Adam Joseph.”

Joe went stiff as a ramrod as he received his nephew.

“He won’t break, Joe. He isn’t made of glass,” Angelica said with a slight grin.

“I know, but babies scare me.”

“Ain’t nothin’ to it, Joe,” Hoss said and shifted little Hiram slightly like a seasoned pro. “An’ if’n you plan on havin’ your own you best learn now.”

Joe tried not being so tense but it wasn’t working. Slowly, his eyes lowered to the tiny bundle of life in his arms. As if aware of his uncle’s discomfort, little Addy, as his parents had taken to calling him, yawned languorously. He stretched, his hands clasped into wee fists, and then his eyes opened and went straight to Joe’s face. Joe felt this little man was looking deep into him, though he had heard that babies this young didn’t have clear eyesight. Then something happened that he would never forget for all his life, baby Adam took hold of the large thumb of one of the hands holding him. Joe smiled and glanced at those around him, and he didn’t feel quite so awkward anymore.

*******

Angelica and her father- and brothers-in-law had settled in around the fireplace, Ben getting the place of honor in the overstuffed chair closest to it. Maggie placed a tray with a pot of tea and sandwiches on the table between them then dismissed herself and returned to the kitchen.

Ben watched his daughter-in-law as she preformed the duties of hostess. “All right, daughter, what is it?”

“What’s what?” she asked as she handed Joe a steaming cup.

“Something is on your mind, and don’t tell me it’s nothing. I’ve been watching you ever since we got here, so you might as well come out with it.”

Angelica froze in the process of adding honey to her own tea. “You’re just like your son. I can keep very little from him.”

One corner of Ben’s mouth crooked. “Then you might as well tell me now as later,” he said then took a sip.

Once she made sure everyone had a sandwich then she sat on the settee between Joe and Hoss. “Adam had to… shoot Sport.”

This struck the family hard.

“What happened?” Hoss asked food for one of the few times taking second stage.

She stirred her tea but her mind wasn’t really on it. “He was helping Lee Haymes with his cattle and… Sport got scratched up on some briars.”

“Blood poisoning,” Joe said vacantly.

“I’m afraid so,” she said as she looked at him. “Adam did everything he could…, but the poor animal was suffering terribly…, and so was Adam.”

“I gave him that horse.”

“I know. More than once I caught Adam talking to him like the dearest of friends, and I almost expected Sport to answer. I know some people would say, “It was only a horse, just get another one.” But he was more than that to Adam, and partly because he came from his father.”

Ben eyed her warily. “But that isn’t all of it, is it?”

Her delicate mouth spread. “No, it isn’t…. Last year for my birthday Adam gave me this beautiful silver locket,” she rubbed her thumb over the precious piece of jewelry around her slender neck, “and I wanted to get something very special for him. But until this happened I didn’t know what.”

“You want to get him a horse,” Ben said and took a sip.

“Yes. I know it won’t be the same, but it’s what I want to do; I just haven’t known how to go about it. I thought about asking Mr. McCutcheon, figuring that he’d know more about it than I do and could keep a secret.”

“Pa, Lyle Curry lives about a day’s ride from here,” Joe said as he sat his cup against its saucer with a clatter.

Ben sat straighter, his attention suddenly gone from his cup. “He most certainly does.”

“Who’s Lyle Curry?” Angelica asked with an inquisitive tilt of her head.

“Only the breeder of some o’ the finest horses in the state o’ Nevada is all,” Hoss piped up and bit the side out of his sandwich.

Angelica’s eyes grew to the size of half dollars and excitement fluttered inside her like a stampede of butterflies. Goosebumps danced over her skin like icy nymphs, and she no longer had any interest in food or drink. “Oh, that couldn’t be possible, could it?” She sat her cup roughly on the table, sloshing her tea.

“I could ride up there, and see what he’s got,” Joe said matter-of-factly. “And I’ll take one of the hands with me.”

“I think that’s a splendid idea, son. Joe is an excellent judge of horses, and I know you’ll be pleased with his choice.”

“Of course I will.” She whirled where she sat to face Joe. “Oh, Joe, he has to be the most special, perfect horse you’ve ever seen. He has to look like he was meant to have Adam on his back, and it doesn’t matter how much you have to pay. Whatever it takes, I want that horse.”

Joe smothered a giggle with his hand, and Angelica took no heed of the amusement she was inspiring.

“Then I guess I’d better get going. I’d like to be gone before Adam gets back.”

“We’ll just tell him that you had something that needed attending at home, and will be along later. Hoss and I can handle this end of it. I think between us and Angelica and Maggie, we can pull it off.”

Angelica looked at the bright, enthusiast faces around her, and her chill increased. “I know we can.”

THREE

Adam had stayed at the Bannings longer than he had intended, and it was approaching twelve thirty in the afternoon when he rode into the yard. He reined up in front of the barn and dismounted then opened back one door and led the stocky blue roan inside. Almost from the moment he stepped into the shadowy interior, his eyes lit on the sturdy buckskin and big black-brown Morgan that were so familiar to him. The little paint, however, wasn’t there, and it gave him a moment’s disappointment.

Hastily, he took care of his mount and got him put away and fed then headed to the house as fast as his long legs would carry him.

Except for the fire’s crackle the large parlor was devoid of life as he came in, but he recognized the hats and coats and there were gun belts on the stand by the door. He wanted to call out, but he knew that if he woke the babies Angelica would have his scalp and his hide along with it.

As he divested himself of his cold weather trappings and hung them up he thought he heard voices. Listening as he removed his gun belt, he realized that they were coming from the bedroom.

“You just missed the boys’ baths,” Angelica said as the bedroom door opened.

Adam crossed his arms over his chest and simply watched in wonderment as his father and brother helped Angelica and Maggie with his sons. Pa had done this many times before, and Hoss was a natural.

“Maybe I should go back to town and try this again.”

“Oh, hi, son,” Ben said casually as he gently put a petite arm into a sleeve. “We didn’t hear you ride in.”

“I’m not surprised. This is far more entertaining.” Adam moved to the foot of the bed for a better vantage point as Hoss sprinkled cornstarch over a miniature chest and tenderly rubbed it in with his huge fingertips. “You do that very well, Hoss. You were meant to be a mother for sure.”

“Ha ha, very funny.

“Here,” Angelica said as she placed a blanket swaddled baby in his father’s arms, “be of some help. Don’t expect us to do it all.”

“What do you want me to do?”

“Just hold him while we finish with his brothers.”

Adam looked down at his son warm and clean and fresh. He never failed to marvel at what he and Angelica had conceived, and not just one, but three perfect little boys. His dark hazel eyes traced over the delicate features that he never tired of looking at.

“Now it’s time for their feeding, so if you gentlemen will kindly step outside, we’ll serve.” Angelica said as she took the baby from Adam.

The men went out into the parlor and the door closed behind them.

“I know you’ve already eaten but I missed dinner, and I’m hungry. How about you Hoss? I’ve never known you to be filled in your life.”

“Boy, you’re just real funny today, ain’t ya?”

Adam scrutinized his brother closely. “I think I can find something to fill that cavity. We can talk in the kitchen.”

They trooped through the dining room and into the well appointed kitchen. It was warmed by the big cast iron stove, and the aromas of food still hung about them. Hoss raised the corner of the cloth covering the bread.

“Hoss take one of those out, and I’ll get some bacon from the pantry.”

Adam took a large butcher knife from a drawer and got a plate then went off as his brother pulled out a loaf that had already been cut on. Hoss held it close to his face and sniffed and smacked his mouth.

Then Adam’s disembodied voice floated out from the pantry. “I was disappointed not to see Joe’s horse. Wasn’t he able to come with you?”

Devious looks were exchanged as Ben spoke.

“No, he had some things that he needed to take care of, but he said he’d get here as soon as he could.”

“Good. A birthday celebration wouldn’t be complete without the whole family. I mean, that is part of why you’re here and why you brought the cattle, for which I’m grateful. Though I thought it was understood that I was going to pay for them?”

“I don’t see why a father can’t give his son a hundred head of prime breeding stock and two of his choicest bulls as a birthday present if he wants to.”

“No reason at all.” Adam’s dark head popped into sight. “But, I’m not a charity case, I can pay for it.”

“It’s not charity, son, it’s love and something I wanted to do.”

“Then present gratefully accepted,” Adam said as he crooked a smile and disappeared again. “I’ve been running behind due to a lot of different things, and your gift couldn’t have come at a better time.”

“We know, son…. Angelica told us about Sport.”

Everything went dead silent for about a minute then Adam came out, the plate heaped with thick sliced bacon. He went straight to the stove where a skillet had been left on it for just such an emergency, and the first slice sizzled as he put it in.

“I did everything I knew to do and even a few things that I came up with for the occasion, but none of it worked.”

Ben stepped to him and put a reassuring hand on his oldest son’s back. “He was sixteen-years-old, and I guess his body just thought it was time to rest. He was a fine mount, a hard worker and a loyal friend and that’s what you’ll remember most about him.”

“I know, but I just felt so blasted useless.”

“We all do from time-to-time, way too much, in fact. But we get over it, we have to, and those who don’t, live a miserable life for as long as it lasts.” Ben’s face brightened. “Now, I hope you sliced off enough of that for me because I’ve just decided that I’m hungry, too.”

He looked at his father and handed him the knife with an ornery smirk. “You know where the pantry is.”

Ben grinned and gave him a slap between the shoulder blades then went off to get his bacon while Adam added more to the hot skillet.

*******

Joe and the man that had gone along with him had gotten farther than expected, and he hoped that it wouldn’t take so long after all to get to Curry’s spread. The idea of springing this on Adam made the corners of his mouth turn, and he tried picturing the look on his brother’s face when he saw the animal. He must come back with the finest horse he could get a hold of, and it would have to be in order to be an adequate replacement for Sport.

Cochise continued on at a good clip, and Joe pushed away thoughts of his ever having to do that to his beloved Cooch. Reaching down, he gave the silky neck a hearty pat, and the horse responded with a sprightlier gait and an extra burst of speed.

Even with all its pitfalls and tragedies life was a wonderful adventure and Joe wouldn’t trade his for anyone’s. He only hoped that – when the time came – he would find a woman like Angelica.

With a whoop, he and the pinto shot forward, leaving their traveling companions behind.

“Hey, wait for me, Joe!” the flaxen-haired hand shouted and gave his mount his knees and fired off after the boss’ son.

*******

After supper, the family had settled in before the fire, Adam, Angelica and Ben each with a baby. Hoss hovered around, unable to pull himself away from the little ones and unwilling to give one more attention than the others.

“Hoss, why don’t you sit down?” Ben chastised mildly.

But Hoss was so busy making over the baby his father held that the suggestion didn’t make much of an impression.

“I tell you what, Hoss,” Angelica said from where she sat on the settee next to her husband. “Why don’t you come over here and take little Addy. I’m around them all the time, and it’s so seldom that you get up here.”

“I’d like that just fine, Miss Angelica.”

Hoss came and sat down beside her, and she carefully transferred her son to his arms. She couldn’t help her smile as she watched this gentle giant of a man. He glanced at her, and she could see the awe and genuine love that her son brought out in him. It wasn’t hard to imagine him with his own babies, and any woman would be blessed in finding herself married to him. She snuggled close to Adam and rested her head on his shoulder and felt the warm glow of happy contentment radiate through her and wished it could stay this way forever.

FOUR

The smell of food wafted into a man’s nose as Ben came down the stairs fastening the last button on his shirt with Hoss right behind him. Plans had been made that while they were there they would help out around the ranch until time to return to the Ponderosa.

Maggie was just setting the table for breakfast, and seemed to pay little attention to them.

Ben gave a cursory look about as they started toward her. “Aren’t Adam and Angelica up yet?”

“No, sir,” she said as she placed a glass at the head of the table and didn’t look around. “The boys gave ‘em a hard time last night.”

Ben glanced back at the bedroom door. “They were sleeping fine when we turned in.”

“Ah, but they refused to stay that way. I heard ‘em cut a shine about one this mornin’.”

“I didn’t hear nothin’.”

Ben’s eyes darted to Hoss, and he hid his amusement.

“I helped as much as I could until they made me go back to bed,” Maggie went on. “They quieted down about an hour or so ago.”

“Does this happen very often?” Ben asked.

“Not as a rule,” Maggie said as she continued with her task, “they’re usually pretty good about sleeping through the night, but I think it was maybe all the excitement from yesterday.” She finally turned to them. “It’s not everyday that young gentlemen get to meet their grandfather and uncles. It kinda spoils ‘em. Now if you’ll excuse me, I need to get breakfast.” Then, with the hint of a curtsey, she went back into the kitchen.

Ben went to the bedroom – Hoss still with him – and eased the door open and they peered inside. Adam sat in the chair holding a son, and Angelica lay on the bed with her arms curled protectively around the other two, all sound asleep.

Ben could feel his heart swell almost to bursting as his fingers hugged around the crystal knob. He hadn’t known such blissful happiness in a long time. His oldest son, his daughter-in-law, and his grandsons; such gifts a man could acquire in his lifetime. Giving Hoss a nod, they backed out, and he quietly pulled the door together.

“I don’t see any need to disturb them,” Ben said softly, “so after we eat we’ll go see Chris and find out what needs to be done.”

“I think that’s the best idea you’ve come up with in a long time, Pa.”

“It can be another birthday present,” Ben said and put his arm over his son’s shoulders. “Now, let’s go have some breakfast.”

Hoss’ eyes gleamed as he rubbed his beefy hands together. “I’m all for that.”

Maggie was just putting the last of the food on the table as they sat down. Ben’s eyes returned to the bedroom door as he unfolded his napkin. Yes, a man could acquire many wonderful gifts in his lifetime, but way too often he took them for granted and only learned of their true value when it was too late. Fortunately, as far as his oldest son was concerned, he had been lucky.

*******

Adam had no idea what time it was when sleep started to recede. He gradually began to stir and felt a weight against his stomach, and he forced his eyes open to find out what it was. With a couple blinks, he focused on the small parcel sleeping so peacefully in his arms. More lucidity crept in, and his gaze went to the bed. Angelica wasn’t there, and Addy and Hi were asleep in their cradle.

With the most delicate movements he could manage, he put his son with his brothers, and the baby hardly moved. For a few seconds, Adam just stood there looking down at three of the prizes he had been awarded in his nearly thirty-six years on Earth.

Now he had to get dressed, and he had to do it in a manner so as not to make too much noise. His bare feet slid over the cool floor as he went to the dresser. The drawer scraped a little too loudly, and he looked behind him with a grimace, but the sound had done no damage. His nimble fingers undid the buttons then he pulled the nightshirt off over his head and stuffed it into the drawer and just as carefully closed it.

Next, he went to the large wardrobe in the corner, and he dreaded opening the monster. He had been meaning to oil that squeaky hinge for two months now and just hadn’t seemed to get around to it.

Angelica was helping out in the kitchen when a peal of wailing came from the bedroom. “Adam must be up,” she said nonchalantly, then excused herself and went out.

As she opened back the bedroom door, Adam stood in nothing but his under drawers rocking the cradle, and trying to placate his upset sons. Then he noticed his wife and looked helplessly around at her.

She started to ask him what had happened but saw the wardrobe door hanging halfway open. “Now maybe you’ll oil it,” she said as she started toward him. “I’ll take over while you put your clothes on.”

“I don’t understand it,” he said as he finished opening the door and took out a dark green shirt that Angelica had made for him. “Sometimes you could put off a cannon barrage and they’ll only grin at it then other times you drop a pencil and this happens.”

“I think that’s exaggerating things just a little bit,” she said from where she knelt by the cradle checking diapers.

“Maybe a smidgen,” he said as he slipped first one arm then the other into the sleeves. “Wet?”

“Dry as little chips.”

“And that’s another thing,” he said as he stepped into his britches legs. “How many babies do you know of who sleep dry through the night?”

“None, but it’s a blessing I don’t question, and don’t forget that we were changing them at two o’clock this morning, and again at just after three.”

“But they were wide awake, and that proves my point. It’s like they turn off their little spigots when they go to sleep.”

She couldn’t help a light giggle at the analogy.

“And when one does something,” he continued as he buttoned his fly, “the other two take it upon themselves to do it too. It’s almost like they’re timed to each other. And someone needs to talk to Addy about venting his frustrations out on his brothers.”

“Are you complaining?”

Addy gave out a squall that could nearly shatter glass and his brothers followed suit.

“No,” Adam said in a raised voice, “just making a point.” He watched her as she rocked the cradle and hummed softly. “Have you seen Pa and Hoss this morning?”

“They came in for the midmorning meal and we visited for a short time, but for the most part they’ve been helping out while we slept.”

“They’re guests,” he tucked his shirt tail in and buckled his belt. “They’re not here to be put to work.”

“They know that, but they figured we needed our rest and they wanted to help. I mean, isn’t that what families do for each other?”

“You sound just like my father.” He sat on the side of the bed and put on his right sock.

“This is a bad thing?”

“I suppose not,” he crooked a grin. He put on his other sock and boots then got into the floor next to her. “Do you need me to stay?”

“No, I think you just reminded them that they’re hungry, and that we can handle. But you could send Maggie in.”

“That I can do.” He put an arm around her waist and kissed the side of her head then got his legs under him and went out into the parlor stamping his feet to settle the boots.

It took about five or so minutes to do as Angelica had asked, then Adam put on his gun belt and stepped out onto the porch as he shrugged into his coat. He readjusted his hat – which had been hastily stuck on his head – then went down the steps and across the yard. As he was just about to go into the barn Juva Bailey left the tool shed with a hammer.

“Hey, Juva, have you seen my father and brother?”

“They rode out a half an hour ago with Chris to check on the cattle.”

Adam thanked him then went on inside. He hadn’t gotten far when his eyes lit on the empty stall nearest the front, and he fought against the knot building in his throat. If only there had been another way.

“I’m sorry, old friend,” he said softly then got his gear from a stand and went to the last stall where a blanket appaloosa mare was having her breakfast. He gave her a gentle pat on the rump. “Hello, pretty girl.”

FIVE

Ben, Hoss and Chris McCutcheon were just about to start back to the house when they heard hooves and saw Adam riding in their direction.

“I see you’re finally up!” Ben shouted with an impish grin.

“It was a long night,” Adam said as he reined up in front of his father’s buckskin. “Of course, then I figure you probably know all about that, having raised three boys of your own.” One dense eyebrow rose.

“You and Hoss weren’t so bad but Joseph was an absolute handful. Not that you two didn’t have your moments.”

“That I can believe.” Then he turned in the saddle, and his dark eyes roved over his newly acquired herd. “I’ve always said that the Ponderosa has the finest stock I’ve ever seen.” The corners of his mouth curved up. “But then I may be somewhat biased.”

“And I gave you Cherub and Dandy.”

“That’s two of your very best bulls.”

“For one of my very best sons.”

“All right, I capitulate.” Then he turned his attention to his foreman. “So what do you think, Chris?”

The young man pushed his hat back on his head and a caramel-colored hank fell over his forehead. “I think you’ve got the makin’s of a real first-class herd here, Boss. Before long you’ll be givin’ the Ponderosa a run for its money.” He wrinkled his nose and one eye scrunched together as he glanced at Ben.

“That I’d like to see,” Ben said as he turned a defiant look on his oldest. “My sons know better than to outdo their father.” Then a warm smile formed beneath the glare.

“So how is them boys’ doin’?” Hoss asked as he leaned his arms on his saddle horn.

“They were having dinner when I left. They can be very demanding about that, just like somebody else I know,” and his eyes narrowed on his brother.

“Well men git mighty hungry an’ they need to be fed.”

“So what do you want to do now, son?”

Adam looked around them, and one could see the wheels turning within the dark head. “Linc told me that it looks like somebody’s been staying in the line shack in Sugar Creek Meadow, and I’ve been meaning to check it out. If there is, and he’s there…”

“He won’t be fool enough to go up against the four of us,” Ben said.

“Unless there’s more’n one,” Hoss added for good measure.”

“I can always count on you to say the right thing to make people feel better,” Adam said as his mouth pinched.

“Why thank you, brother.”

“We’d better get going before the rest of the day gets away from us,” Ben said as he gave his oldest son a jaundiced look.

Adam just looked back at him wryly then brought his horse’s head around. “Then let’s go and stop dallying.”

Father and son watched each other closely and this time Adam got a knowing wink. Then the men rode off in a bluster in the direction that lay toward Bantree.

*******

Maggie had just come from upstairs as Angelica left the bedroom and quietly closed the door behind her.

“Are the little darlin’s finally asleep?”

“Yes, thank goodness. Since Adam’s family came they have been so excited. I’ve noticed that when they see Hoss and their grandfather their eyes get great big and their little arms and legs start going.”

“It’s been my experience, though I’ve had none o’ me own, that babies can always recognize the good ones… and the bad ones. I remember how Patricia was when she met your Uncle Hosea. She got so she cried like she’d been spanked whenever she just saw ‘im.”

“That wouldn’t surprise anyone who’d ever known Uncle Hosea.” She snickered. “It’s too bad the adults at his job didn’t have such insight. If they had, maybe he wouldn’t have been able to embezzle all that money and been sent to prison when he finally got caught,” Angelica’s face went more sullen, “and broken Daddy’s heart. I don’t think he ever did get over that.”

“Your father, bein’ the oldest, always did take it upon himself to watch after all his brothers. That is what families are supposed to do.”

“I know you’re right, still it hurts to think about it.”

Maggie’s nutmeg eyes stayed on her girl. “But that isn’t what’s botherin’ ya now, is it? Is it gettin’ this horse for Mr. Adam?”

Angelica looked around. “You don’t think I’m making a mistake, do you? I mean, he did so love that horse, and Sport was a gift from his father.”

“And this one will be a gift from his wife. Mr. Adam is smart enough to know that time moves on and nothin’ stays the same. Unfortunately, as long as we live we’re goin’ to lose those we love, and there’s not a thing we can do about it.”

“Why is it that any time something is bothering me I feel better just from talking to you?”

“I’m Irish, mum, and we make good philosophers.”

Angelica started a laugh but caught herself and capped a hand over her mouth as her eyes darted to the bedroom door then back to Maggie. They shared a muffled chortle then went back about their chores.

*******

Angelica had called Sugar Creek Meadow the prettiest spot on the face of the earth. It rolled gently – green and lush and nourished by a splashing stream – until it sloped up into hills that were little more than bumps. Crocus, in shades of yellow and lilac, poked through the snow every spring and later other wild flowers would come into full bloom. Thickets of sage were scattered about waiting to perfume the summer air with their spicy scent, and sweet clover would also come to feed hungry cattle.

The single room shack, built by Adam’s design, and the same as all the others, sat near the base of one of those bumps. A lean-to at its back made an adequate shelter for one to two horses but certainly no more.

As the four men rode toward the little building they couldn’t miss the thin wisp of gray smoke coming up from the chimney or the small roan in the lean-to. Someone had definitely moved in. They dismounted and rifles came from scabbards. They led their horses forward and stopped at the front of the line shack. Hoss crouched and examined the ground then looked to Adam and held up one finger.

With hand signals from Adam they positioned themselves on either side of the door, and Ben carefully took hold of the handle. Counting silently to three with his fingers, Adam stood back. Then, when the last digit rose, Ben shoved the door open, and all rifles came into play as Adam dashed through the doorway.

“All right, don’t move!” Adam shouted as he drew a direct bead on the intruder’s back. “Or you’re liable to get shot for trespassing.”

SIX

Backed up by his father, brother and foreman, Adam took a step closer to the man sitting motionless on a stool before the fireplace.

“Hold your hands out where I can see them, stand up, and turn around, and do it easy.”

Slowly, the man did as ordered, revealing a slim, gangly frame as he turned to face them.

“He’s just a kid,” Hoss said.

“How old are you, boy?” Adam asked as his gaze traced over the freckled face.

“Ssssixteen,” he stammered. “I didn’t mean any harm.” He looked at each poised rifle. “You aren’t gonna shoot me for staying here, are you?”

“Nobody’s going to shoot you, son,” Ben said but his gun didn’t lower. “Where do you come from?”

The boy’s copper eyes settled on Ben.

“My father asked you a question,” Adam said a bit sternly.

“Indiana.”

“You’re a bit of a ways from home,” Chris said as he took a supporting position next to his boss. “Whatcha doin’ out here?”

The boy looked straight at Adam, and a blind man could have smelled his fear, though he tried hiding the fact.

“I’m trying to get to California. My dad’s brother lives there.”

“What about your ma and pa? Ain’t you got no family?”

The boy’s eyes darted to the huge man blocking the entrance. “My father took off and left us when I was two so I never had any brothers or sisters, and my mother died almost a year ago. I wrote to my uncle, and he said I could live with him and his family.”

“Why didn’t you just take a stage coach?” Ben asked as his rifle finally came down.

“I couldn’t afford it.” The boy proudly held his head up. “But I’m doing all right on my own.”

A characteristic black eyebrow rose. “Is that why you’re in one of my line shacks taking advantage of my hospitality?”

The boy stuck his chin out obstinately. “I’ll pay for that.”

“Don’t be ridiculous, boy; my son isn’t in the habit of turning out a man who’s down on his luck.”

“My father’s right,” Adam said as he handed his rifle to Chris and stepped closer to the young man. “My name’s Adam Cartwright and this is my father Ben Cartwright, my brother Hoss and my foreman Chris McCutcheon.”

“I’m Wyatt Donnelly…, but my friends just call me Wy.”

“All right, Wy,” Adam said as he heartily shook the boy’s hand. “When was the last time you had something to eat?”

“Well…, I’ve been eating what I found here.”

“Let me reword that,” Adam said with a skewed grin. “When was the last time you had a home cooked meal?”

The boy smiled timorously. “It’s been so long that I’ve clean forgot.”

“Then why don’t you come back with us. My housekeeper is one of the finest cooks in the state.”

A sharp light glittered in Wyatt’s eyes. “I don’t need handouts.”

“I’m not giving any. A man can’t work on an empty stomach,” his lips quirked wickedly, “or a partially filled one, and I thought you could use the pay to get to California. I can always use another hand, even if it is only temporary. I pay seven dollars for a week.”

Wyatt’s eyes went perfectly wide. “Seven dollars? Those are top wages. I’ve worked along the way to get this far, and no one’s ever paid that much.”

“My son is generous with those who give him a good day’s work.”

“And I figure a man can always use some spending money once he reaches his destination.”

“I sure would appreciate that, Mr. Cartwright, and you’ll get work all right.”

“You’d better,” Adam said with a wink and put his arm around the boy’s shoulders. “Now you go on out and get your horse saddled.”

“I’ll go help ‘im,” Hoss said as he stepped out of the doorway. “Come on, boy.”

The teenager went out with the big man, and Ben and Chris’ full attention turned on Adam.

“You sure this is such a good idea, Boss?”

“I think he’s all right, but in case I’m wrong I want you and Juva and the others to keep an eye on him.”

“Will do, Boss. He won’t put nothin’ over on us,” Chris said enthusiastically then went out too.

“Chris could be right, you know.”

“I know.”

“Then why?”

“For the same reason you would, and I guess maybe I see something of myself at that age in him.”

Ben nodded. “A boy trying to become a man.”

“Exactly.” Then he slapped a hand on his father’s back, and they went out after the others.

*******

Joe could feel the excitement well into his chest as the large ranch house and a myriad out buildings – including two barns – came into view as they cleared a copse of trees. Men and horses dotted the yard and surrounding fenced in areas. He hadn’t been here in a couple years – since he had come for Tessa Curry’s eighteenth birthday. Eagerness to see her and see how much she had grown wormed its way in but it couldn’t displace the excitement of his reason for being there.

Lyle Curry, a man on par with Hoss Cartwright when it came to size, though not so tall, was helping to shoe a balky filly when Joe and the man with him rode into the yard. As his bushy chestnut head rose, and he caught sight of them, afternoon light glinted in his chocolate brown eyes. “Joe Cartwright!” he said robustly as he dropped the horse’s foot and whirled. “It’s been a while since a Cartwright’s been out this way. Step down and get reacquainted, and your friend too.”

Joe and the hand stepped down and came toward the big man, leading their horses.

“I know, we’ve been negligent, but you know how that goes when you live on a ranch.”

“I guess I do,” Lyle said with a chuckle. He wiped his right hand on the leather apron he wore then it shot out to Joe. “But I don’t know if Martha and the girls can forgive you.”

Joe’s eyes sparkled like wet emeralds. “How is Tessa?”

“Just like always and going to be married in two weeks.”

Joe felt a lurch in his stomach and his crest visibly fell. He hadn’t thought about that. “Do I know him?”

“It’s Bradley Peterson’s middle son Curt from over to the Triangle P,” Lyle said as he crooked a thumb over his shoulder. “I think you’ve met him.”

“Once or twice,” Joe said with a nod as he shook the man’s hand. “He hasta be a nice fella for Tessa to love him enough to want to marry him.”

“He is,” Lyle said, “a real nice lad.” Then he extended his hand to the man with Joe.

“Dave Bush,” the young man said as he took it.

“Nice to meet ya, Dave. Now you’ll both stay at least the night, I know it’s a long trail from the Ponderosa.”

“We didn’t come all the way from the Ponderosa; we’ve been at Adam’s ranch. Got rested up long enough, so this wasn’t so bad.”

“How is Adam and that beautiful wife of his? I haven’t seen them since the wedding, and I heard they had a son.”

“They’re fine, and you only heard partly right. They had three sons.”

Lyle whistled in through his teeth and ran his fingers back through his thick hair. “Cartwrights never do anything half ended. Who do they favor?”

Joe snickered. “Their hair’s black as jet and their skin’s the color of tanned leather.”

“And those keen eyes, I suppose.”

Joe only nodded.

“That comes as no surprise. Dave, why don’t you go on over to the cook shack and ask Mick to set you up while we go on to the house? Stu, show him where it is then take care of these boys’ horses.”

“Yessir, Mr. Curry.”

The sinewy cowhand thanked him then went on with the other man who also wore a leather apron.

“So what brings you to my neck of the woods after so long,” Lyle asked as he slung a brawny arm around Joe’s shoulders and they started for the big, rustic house nestled on a slight rise back in a half dozen trees.

“I’m here for a horse for Adam’s birthday.”

“A horse?” Some of the bright left Lyle’s face. “What about that big chestnut of his?”

Now a gray cloud dimmed Joe’s expression. “Adam had to put him down…. Blood poisoning.”

Lyle shook his head. “I’ve lost some good mounts that way too.” Then the smile returned and spread his mouth like an inverted rainbow. “So I suppose you’ll want the best I’ve got. Well, right after you get settled and visit some and have something to eat and a glass of brandy we’ll take a look.”

“That sounds good to me.”

“Great,” he gave Joe a slap between the shoulder blades. “Tessa has grown into a fine young lady, but it’s Vindy that you won’t recognize. Now let’s go get that brandy.”

SEVEN

Joe found himself well stuffed and enjoying a glass of fine Napoleon as he relaxed a large chair that threatened to swallow him. His legs were stretched out before him – the backs of his feet resting on an Indian rug – and a mother and eldest daughter watched him intently from the brown leather davenport. Lyle stood at the fireplace, working on slowly emptying his own snifter.

“Are you sure you had enough, Joe?” Martha Curry asked.

“Yes, ma’am, I couldn’t force down another bite. And I think that’s the best venison pasty I’ve ever had.” Joe took a sip of the amber liquid, and his gaze went to Tessa. “Now, you were gonna tell me about your fiancé.”

Petite, brunette Tessa Curry looked so much like her mother it was almost scary. “He is a fine man, and we practically grew up together.” She ducked her head, and her cheeks blushed into a rosy pink then her cobalt blue eyes returned to his face. “I guess we’ve always loved each other, it just took us this long to realize it.”

Before another word could be spoken, however, sixteen-year-old Vindy Curry blew into the house like an untamed Washoe Zephyr.

“Vindy, must you always enter this house that way,” her mother chided, “and when we have a guest?”

“Sorry, Mother, but I just always feel so good after a ride.”

Joe managed to pull himself up enough so that he could look around, and he nearly dropped his glass and his teeth. Indeed he didn’t recognize Vindy Curry. In two years the skinny child had grown into a voluptuous teenager, filled out in all the right places and even more tantalizingly beautiful than her older sister.

“Joe!” she squealed, and her reddish-brown ringlets bobbed at the back of her head as she bounded forward.

“Vindy,” he said as he stood. “Your father told me you’d grown, but I had no idea.”

She tossed her riding crop haphazardly onto a side table and threw her arms around his neck. Caught off guard, Joe reeled back on his heels.

“Vindy!” her mother scolded. “That is not at all ladylike.”

“Yes, Mother,” Vindy said then released him and stepped back to a respectable distance. “I didn’t mean to be so forward, but it has been a long time, and you must admit…,” She twirled around in place, her riding skirt ballooning out. “…that I have grown up beautifully.”

Vindy!” he mother said shrilly. “I have told you time and again that vanity is not one bit becoming.”

But even this stiff rebuke had no effect on her exuberance.

“Well, I think that’s enough visiting for now,” Lyle said then finished emptying his glass and placed it on the heavy oak mantle. “Joe came here to pick out a horse for his brother’s birthday, and he doesn’t have a whole lot of time to waste.”

“Oh, Daddy, can I come with you?” Vindy bubbled.

Lyle’s chocolate eyes met with Joe’s, and he got a nod and half a grin. “All right, sweetheart, if your mother doesn’t mind.”

Pleading young eyes turned on her mother.

“All right,” Martha said with a slight frown, “but don’t get in the way, and don’t try to tame them all by yourself.”

“I promise.”

Joe once again thanked his hostesses then went on outside with Lyle, Vindy close behind them.

“Daddy has some wonderful horses, some of his best ever,” Vindy gushed, “and I think you’ll have no problem finding just the right one.”

“Do you want one that’s saddle broke or green broke?” Lyle asked.

“Well, Adam always has liked a challenge.”

“All right,” Lyle said with a mischievous chuckle, “green broke it is.”

As they drew closer to where the stock was kept Vindy dashed on ahead.

“That one keeps us hopping and has since she could crawl,” Lyle said as he shook his head and watched his daughter. “Her sister has never been that much interested in horses, just like her mother, but that one has loved them most her life. She was riding almost before she could walk and sticks to them like a burr, even without a saddle.”

“And she’s bloomed like the roses outside our kitchen. You could’ve knocked me over with a broom straw when I first saw her.”

“I noticed, and you aren’t the first. And when she marries I hope it’s to a rancher.”

“Why a rancher?”

“Because she belongs on a ranch…. She belongs around horses, and she knows more about the running of one than my Tessa does.” He snickered. “Who do you think helps me decide which mares to mate with which studs, and she’s good at it. I think that’s why we’ve produced some of our finest animals in the last few years.” He gave Joe a swat on the arm. “Now let’s stop tarrying and go find that horse.”

They picked up their pace and soon joined the girl at a large corral near the barn farthest from the house. Lyle gave instructions to one of the men to begin bringing out the horses, one at a time, for Joe’s inspection.

Each animal Joe looked at was fine in its own right but not what he was looking for, and he knew he would know the right one when he saw it…, if he saw it. And with each one his hopes waned.

“That only leaves one, Joe.”

“Well, I might as well take a look at him.”

“All right, Henry, tote ‘im on out.”

“Yessir, Mr. Curry.”

Joe’s anticipation, tinged with a feeling of defeat, made him look away and prepare himself for the letdown he feared.

“Here he is, Joe.”

With hesitation, Joe looked around, and his heart thumped into his mouth, which gaped open. His eyes traced every inch of the stallion as he went forward and ran a hand over the satiny coat then he turned back to Lyle. “This is the one, Lyle. No doubt. This is the one.”

*******

The family had gathered around the table for dinner, but their food had temporarily lost their attention as they watched Wyatt Donnelly wolfing down some of Maggie’s Mulligan stew. He ate like he hadn’t had a decent meal in a month of Sundays. Maggie stood by the door to the kitchen, arms crossed in front of her, and her nutmeg eyes filled with deep satisfaction.

“As far as I know,” Adam started, “food isn’t in imminent danger of going out of style.”

The boy, however, didn’t notice or even seem to hear him, and he kept going until he scraped the bowl nearly clean.

“Would you like some more?” Angelica asked as her violet eyes flicked to her husband.

“Oh, yes, ma’am.” He looked at those around him and became a little self conscious. “If it’s all right.”

“It’s just fine,” Angelica said with a warming smile. “We have plenty.”

Maggie magically appeared next to him and took the lid from the large stoneware tureen and ladled a copious amount into his empty bowl. He thanked her and started in on his second big helping, and she returned to her position close to the kitchen.

“You still haven’t told us why it is you’re in such a hurry to get to California other than you have family there,” Adam said as he took up a spoonful.

“What makes you think there’s another reason?”

Adam glanced at his father. “Let’s just say it’s a feeling and leave it at that.”

Wyatt gulped down a bite and looked around at him. “I don’t see any harm in telling anyone. My birthday is in a few days, and I wanted to be with them by then.”

“Oh, really,” Adam said and picked up his water goblet. “What day is it?”

“The fifth.”

“No foolin’,” Hoss said with a titter. “That’s Adam’s birthday too.”

Wyatt looked at the man whose table he now shared. “Really?”

“Yes, really, but I was born a few years before you were. Now why don’t we finish dinner, and we can talk later.”

The food once again took center stage.

Adam’s eyes rose clandestinely to peer that those around him from beneath his fringe of black lashes. They were oblivious to his scrutiny, and he wanted it that way. He knew his family, and he had an idea what they were up to.

EIGHT

A lone lamp burned low in the downstairs bedroom and chased back the shadows as Adam sat on the side of the bed watching his wife while he finished buttoning his nightshirt. Angelica was in the chair bouncing a fussy baby on her knees. The other two had gone to asleep but Addy was fighting it, though he was losing his battle.

“I’m glad Pa and Hoss came, and I hope Joe can make it.”

“So am I, and I think Joe will get here,” she said and wouldn’t look at him lest she give herself away. “I don’t think he would want to miss his brother’s birthday.”

“Not if he had a choice.” His dark eyes stayed riveted to her face.

Angelica kept her gaze locked on her son.

His bare feet softly padded against the floor as he went to her and knelt beside the chair. “The party won’t feel right if he doesn’t get here in time.” He began gently stroking the top of the small downy head and the tiny lids could stay open no longer.

Angelica could feel those astute hazel eyes trying their best to pry from her what she didn’t want to tell, and she still refused to look at him. “I’m sure he’ll find a way to be here. He…” But she stopped herself for the next words could sink the whole thing.

“He what?”

She bit the inside of her cheek and went on. “As close as you four are, he won’t miss it.” She finally looked at him; she would show him that she had nothing to hide.

Adam’s eyes drank her in. If she was keeping something from him he wasn’t picking up on it. He knew his Angelica wouldn’t let his birthday pass without doing or getting something special for him. He knew her better than he thought he could ever know anyone in the space of time he had known her. Tenderly he touched her cheek. “I’ve got all I could ever want. You and the boys are all I will ever need.”

Angelica swallowed and fought back against the impulse to tell him what she was up to. She had never kept a secret from him, and this was eating her up. But once he saw the animal that would make it all worth this misery, if Joe found the right one. Her lips trembled, and she clamped them until they ached.

Carefully, he took his sleeping son into his arms and placed him in the cradle with his brothers, and the baby hardly stirred. Then he turned back to her, grasped her fingers and pulled her up from the chair. The light shining in his eyes and casting soft shadows over his handsome face made Angelica’s heart fly with wild abandon. He cupped her face in his work-callused hands, and her breathing grew more ragged. Then his lips touched hers and her eyes closed as her senses finished running totally amok. She melded into his embrace and became one with him and lost her own identity, but she didn’t care. She was with him and her sons were close by and nothing else mattered at the moment.

*******

Ben had turned back the covers of his bed and was just about to put out the lamp when a knocking came at his bedroom door. His heavy black eyebrows pulled down for he figured her knew who it could be at this time of night. Gathering his robe from the foot of the bed, he slid his arms into the sleeves but didn’t bother tying the sash, and his slippers lightly scuffed the floor.

“Hoss,” he said as he opened the door back, “how did I know it was you?”

“Was you asleep?”

“Not yet. What is it?”

“Do you think Adam knows?”

Ben grabbed him by the arm and pulled his substantial son inside and closed the door behind him.

“Well if he doesn’t he certainly will,” Ben said as he whirled on him. “If you don’t stop behaving like a maggot on a hot rock, that is.” Ben’s face scrunched. “Since I came west my vocabulary has definitely taken a backslide.”

“Pa, I’m afraid o’ lettin’ the cat outta the bag, an’ you know we ain’t never been able to keep anything from Adam.”

“Oh, I don’t know. We have slipped a few things over on him.”

“Very few.”

Ben’s mouth went into a flat line, and his face drew into a scowl.

“An’ I cain’t help wonderin’ how Angelica’s doin’.”

“I think Angelica’s doing just fine. She’s a strong girl.”

“But Adam has a way o’ makin’ people nervous, an’ she hasta stay in the room with ‘im all night. He can just look at you an’ you’d swear he knows everything thing that you got on your mind.”

“Hoss, when are you and Joe going to realize that your brother is no different than the rest of us?”

“Adam?” Hoss said as his eyebrows arched, and his forehead creased. “Pa, I think you need to git some sleep. Adam’s a whole lot different from the rest of us.”

“I guess I am a little tired at that. Now why don’t you don’t on back to your room and get some sleep too. Joe and Dave should be back with the horse before long and everything can come out in the open.”

“But what if’n Joe don’t find the right horse.”

Fire rose up in Ben’s coffee eyes. There were times when he could strangle Hoss, especially when he had to admit that his son was right. “We’ll ford the river when and if we get to it, now you go on to bed,” Ben began herding him toward the door, “and tomorrow will bring us that much closer to the fifth.”

“You sure, Pa?”

“Yes, son, I’m sure. Now go on.” He opened the door and began easing Hoss out into the hall.

“All right, Pa, but I still ain’t so sure I can carry this off.”

“You have before, now good night.” Ben closed the door and turned around with a huff. Oh, how he wished Joe would get back with a horse in tow, any horse, so they could know some peace.

*******

Excitement danced a jig inside Joe and it was making sleep downright impossible. He could hardly wait to get back to the Angel, and his family could see what he had found. He had always prided himself on his ability to judge fine horseflesh, and his talent hadn’t let him down. He tried imagining Adam’s reaction when he finally saw his present, and it only intensified his exhilaration. Yet, what if after Sport, Adam didn’t like this horse. His brother could be so stubborn and set in his ways, but surely-to-goodness he would like this magnificent animal, and the fact that he was a gift from Angelica would go a long way.

Joe’s feet splattered against the floor, and he went to the window and looked out into the darkness. Worry and doubt roiled around in his brain and it only heightened his agitation.

“Blast it all,” he said as he peered into the black star littered sky. “Adam’ll like him.” He grinned but it quickly vaporized as another question caught him broadside. “What if he finds out before I get back?”

He slapped his hand against his forehead and ran it back over his tousled thick dark brown hair. With a grunt of aggravation, he stomped back to the bed and flopped onto the soft mattress, and the frame squeaked. His eyes set on the dark void of the ceiling, and he locked his fingers behind his head.

“Don’t be silly,” he said half under his breath. “Of course he’ll like him, and this one’ll be Adam’s very own just like Sport was.”

This seemed to satisfy him and quell some of the raging emotion running rampant through him. Stretching his arms up toward the ceiling, he let them drop at his sides. He and Dave had to leave early in the morning as soon as they had had their breakfast so he needed to get some sleep.

The room was cool, so he brought the covers back over him and turned onto his side away from the window. Closing his eyes, he let his mind turn back the pages of time to when he and his brothers were children, and the memories encouraged slumber, and his breathing grew heavier. His body became lighter, and his mind more at peace as his family joined him for the night.

NINE

Joe climbed into the saddle, the halter lead clutched in his left hand. “Thanks, Lyle, ladies, for your hospitality. It makes me wonder why I don’t get out this way more often.”

“Well, you can always change that,” Lyle said with a broad grin. “With Adam’s spread being so close you don’t have any more excuses not to.”

“I guess I don’t. And it’ll give me a chance to get to know Tessa’s new husband better,” Joe said, and his eyes flitted to Vindy standing between her mother and sister. The girl smiled alluringly at him, and his heart threw in an extra thump. “Now we’d better get going if we plan on getting there in time. I wish all of you could come to the party.”

“So do I, but with the new batch of foals, and spring breaking and repairs there’s too much going on to get away right now. Now you let me know how Adam likes the horse,” Lyle said and shook Joe’s hand.

“I sure will.”

“It was nice meeting you, Dave.”

“And you too, Mr. Curry,” Dave said, and tipped his hat to the womenfolk. “Ladies.”

With a final exchange of good-byes, Joe and Dave rode out with the gift. As pleasant as their stay here had been they had no time for dallying if they planned on getting back to the Angel in time.

*******

Adam came down the front steps at a good clip – buttoning his coat as he went – and started toward the barn. In all his life he had never tasted sausage like Maggie made. It had just the right amount of spices and was slightly on the hot side, but not enough the sear the lining from your mouth and throat like some he had eaten. And the gravy it produced, when spooned over toast or biscuits, was sheer ambrosia. The scent of it still hung in the morning air and retained the ability to make a man salivate, regardless of how full his stomach might be.

As he entered the barn he saw Wyatt Donnelly busy feeding the family milk cow.

“Good morning, Wyatt. I see that Chris has already put you to work.”

“Yes, sir, Mr. Cartwright,” the boy said as he gave the cow a pat then turned to his employer. “He told me I could start out here just doing whatever needed to be done. I figure if I’m going to get paid I’ll earn it.”

“I’m sure you will.” Adam backed the blanket appaloosa out of her stall and began readying her for a day’s work. “I’m glad I found you. I’m gonna ride into town to get the mail, and I thought you might like to come with me? You can check the stagecoach schedule,” he said as he swung the saddle onto the mare’s back, “and see what a nice town Bantree is.”

The boy’s face dropped. “I can’t take the stage, that takes more money than I can make in a day or two even at these wages.”

“Oh, I don’t know,” Adam said with a secretive grin. “I thought I could buy your horse and gear from you and that would give you a pretty good chunk o’ change.” He froze and rested his arms on the horse’s back and set his gaze on the young man. “And I thought that maybe you might like to spend your birthday here. Since we share the same one I thought we could share the same party. My wife won’t mind, in fact, she thinks it’s an excellent idea. There’ll be plenty to eat, with cake and punch, among other things, and even if you start out today you’ll never get to Sacramento in time, and I don’t think your family will mind.”

Adam couldn’t miss the gloom that fell over the boy’s face as his dejected eyes went to the floor, and he knew that dejection wasn’t the only thing at work.

“That isn’t all of it, is it?”

“No, sir…. I lied to you, Mr. Cartwright,” Wyatt’s eyes slowly came back up, “and I shouldn’t’ve done that, but the truth is… my uncle doesn’t want me anymore ‘n my dad did…. I guess I just didn’t want anyone feeling sorry for me.”

“Then where were you going, and why are you telling me now?”

“When I left home it was to see my uncle. I hoped that maybe seeing me and getting to know me would change his mind about wanting me around…, but along the way I found I didn’t want to, and I like being out like this. I’m sixteen-years-old, I’m a man now, and I don’t need him. I don’t need anyone.”

“We all need somebody, no matter how old we are.” Adam walked around behind his horse, dragging his hand over her rump and went to stand in front of Wyatt. “It’s a mistake to think that we can get by without others. Maybe you can make it on your own, but isn’t it much more pleasurable to care for others and know that they care for you? And don’t you think that riding fence or putting up winter hay goes faster and doesn’t seem to take so long if you have somebody to gripe with?”

“I suppose so.”

“Sure it does,” Adam said cheerfully and threw his arm about the boy’s shoulders. “Now you still haven’t told me if you’ll stay for the party or not.”

Wyatt’s face scrunched, and he finally looked at the man beside him. “Do you honestly want me? I mean, I don’t wantta interfere or intrude.”

“We honestly want you, and it’ll give you the chance to decide if you want to stay here or not. I’m always looking for good men to hire to help me build this place up, and if you’d like to become a part of this there’s plenty of room for you. Now whadaya say?”

Wyatt didn’t have to think about it long. “All right, Mr. Cartwright, I’d like that just fine.”

“Prefect.” Adam gave him a hearty slap on the back. “Now you go saddle up your horse while I finish here, and we’ll ride into town together. I have some friends I’d like for you to meet, and we can get better acquainted along the way. How does that sound to you?”

“That sounds just fine.”

“Good, then you’d better get to it.”

“Yes, sir, Mr. Cartwright,” Wyatt said enthusiastically and rushed out to get his horse.

Adam snorted and shook his head then returned to the mare and tightened the cinch. He was glad the boy had agreed to stay, even if he decided to leave a week later. He knew how flighty boys could be at that age – Joe had been a solid lesson in that – but for now this was his home for however long he wanted it to be. He liked the idea of having this young man around, and he liked the idea of teaching him as he had his own brothers, and one could always use another friend.

*******

Dave Bush, riding alongside Joe Cartwright, turned in his saddle and looked at the superb creature his companion led. “That sure is some horse. Your brother sure is gonna be surprised.”

“I hope so,” Joe said gloomily.

“Why wouldn’t he be?” Dave said with a frown of uncertainty as he looked back at Joe.

“Hoss is there.”

This registered immediately, and Dave’s mouth pinched. “And you’re afraid he’ll let it slip if he hasn’t already.”

“You don’t even havta let it slip around Adam. It’s almost like he can read minds.”

“Well, even if he knows something’s in the wind, that don’t mean he’ll necessarily figure out what he’s got. I mean, didn’t they just tell him that you didn’t come and would later? That ain’t gonna tell ‘im nothing, is it?”

Joe only nodded.

“Then whatcha worrying about?”

Joe’s head came slowly around, and those emerald eyes struck the hand fair. “This is Adam.”

Dave gulped. “Yeah, I see whatcha mean. But maybe this time…” and his voice trailed off.

“We can only hope.”

Joe gave Cochise his heels and the sprightly paint picked up speed, the birthday present coming obediently along behind. Tomorrow was the fifth, and Joe knew they probably wouldn’t get back before then, but as long as they made it before the party it didn’t matter when they got there. He glanced around behind him at the horse, and his excitement began to surge forward again. Oh, how he hoped the surprise wasn’t spoiled, because he would hate to have to kill either or both of his brothers.

*******

Angelica buzzed around the house like a nervous bee, unable to settle into any one diversion. With Adam not around she didn’t have to hide her agitation, and when he was it was sometimes difficult to put the stopper back into the bottle.

Her state must have apparently reached out to her sons – who were usually placid and calm like their father, for the most part – because today they were testier than usual. She could hear them in the bedroom quarreling with each other then a squall suddenly shattered the afternoon quiet like the emergency whistle at the lumber camp. Pushing the door open, she went straight to the cradle to find Addy – the larger and more temperamental of the three – beating up on his brothers, who had both begun to cry. His tiny fists were flailing and, lying in the middle; targets were not in short supply.

“Addy,” she said as she picked him up, “what’s wrong, sweetheart?”

He continued to punch at invisible goblins while his brothers’ lamentations increased.

With the baby in her arms, she sat in the chair and commenced to moving the cradle with her foot, shushing them. As she jostled Addy and continued rocking the other two, her soft voice rose in a lullaby that her mother had sung to her and her brothers and sisters when they were younger.

“Hush-a-bye, don’t you cry,
Go to sleep-y, little baby,”

The door opened behind her but she couldn’t very well look around.

“I see they’re at it again.”

“More to the point, Addy’s at it again. It’s all this excitement and you know how sensitive they are to other’s feelings.”

“Yes, mum. And things have been rather tense.”

“Why would things be tense?” the rich baritone asked from the doorway.

Angelica went solid as stone and the rocking and jouncing stopped, though the wailing continued unabated. Adam came around to where she could see him, and picked up his other two sons.

“Why would things be tense?” he repeated.

Any attempt at an explanation clogged her throat, and she found herself unable to answer him.

“Tense for the boys,” Maggie spoke up. “They’re not used to all this company and bustle, and I think they’re feelin’ somethin’ special with your father and brother.”

“Oh,” he said and swayed from side-to-side with his sons.

Angelica was in the process of learning to read him like a map, and right now what she saw told her that he didn’t wholly believe what he had just been told. Now, more than ever before, she knew she had better watch her step and not say too much. “That’s right, dear. You know how they get when you pick them up, especially Addy.”

“If you say so,” he said, and his cunning eyes lit on her.

Now Angelica knew she was in trouble. One false step, one miscue and this sharp man she had married would be all over it like a duck on a June bug. “You sound as if you don’t believe me,” she said, and her fine eyebrows rose.

“I believe you, but I also know that today happens to be the fourth,” his eyes never drifted away from the babies he held, “and I’d be naïve to think that my wife isn’t plotting behind my back.”

She fought down a gulp. He was onto her, and she could only hope that he didn’t have a hint of what her ‘plotting’ was.

“Now I’m gonna take Benjy and Hi into the parlor. You and Addy can come with us if you’d like.”

They watched him go then those nutmeg eyes turned on Angelica.

“Mr. Joe had better get here soon,” Maggie whispered.

Angelica only nodded then followed after her husband with Addy.

TEN

The boys had settled down after a fine meal and now the adults were gathered around the supper table. Hoss had never eaten onion and potato chowder before, and he hadn’t had any Irish soda bread since Annie O’Toole had closed down her eatery, so he was making the most of it.

“Good, isn’t it, Hoss?” Adam said as he shot an amused look at his father.

“It sure is,” Hoss said and shoveled in another spoonful. “Irish ladies sure can cook.”

“You should try dipping your bread in it for something really good.”

“I’m savin’ that for soppin’ my bowl clean, ma’am.”

“So, it’s beginning to look like Joe isn’t gonna make it tonight either,” Adam said as he broke off a bite of warm crusty bread.

“There’s plenty of time yet for him to get here.” Ben fought desperately to keep from looking at Angelica. He knew his oldest son well enough to know that he would most likely catch its meaning.

“I hope so. I haven’t had too many of these, and I sure would hate for him to miss it.”

Ben felt Hoss nudge him under the table, and his attention bore in on his food even more. “I’m sure he will. You know that brother of yours.”

“I certainly do.”

The edge in Adam’s voice made Angelica’s breath shudder. If Joe didn’t hurry she knew she would bust. “Well, if he doesn’t, we’ll save him a piece of cake.” Her fingers knotted on the handle of her spoon, and she hoped her voice hadn’t betrayed her.

Maggie came in and checked the level in the tureen. “I think I’d better add some more to this,” she said as she picked it up.

“That’s right tasty, Miss Maggie. The way you can cook I’m surprised Adam ain’t fat as mud by this time.”

“If I start to my wife beats it off me,” Adam said with a wicked glance at Angelica.

“Someone has to or you’ll break your horse down the middle.” The second she said it she wanted to slap herself. “Adam, I didn’t think. I didn’t mean…”

He took her hand and squeezed it. “I know you didn’t, so don’t worry about it. I’m not.” He kissed her fingertips then returned to his eating.

But she knew better, his brief expression told her as much. How could she have been so thoughtless?

The rest of the meal proceeded in silence and dessert went as quietly. After they finished the men drifted off while Angelica helped Maggie clear the table and clean up in the kitchen, where the housekeeper carried on a more-or-less one-sided conversation. Afterward, Angelica came out in anticipation of finding her husband.

Ben sat before the fireplace with a book he had snagged from the upstairs study, but he was quite alone.

“Where are Adam and Hoss?” she asked as her deep violet eyes floated about the room.

“Hoss is in with the babies,” he said as he looked up at her with a slight grin, “but he promised not to disturb them.”

“And Adam?”

“He went out onto the front porch. Said he needed to think.”

She thanked him then started across the parlor, took her heavy paisley shawl from the coat stand and went outside into the last pale vestiges of day. A tall, dark form stood, his broad back to her, caught in the faint orangey glow coming from the parlor windows. So still was he that she could detect no sign of life. Wrapping the shawl about her shoulders, her feet softly tapped the planks of the porch floor as she went to him and gently slipped her arm around his.

“Are you thinking about Sport?” She watched him as his head bobbed but his attention never left the barn.

“I’m so sorry, Adam. My mouth worked before my brain did. I would never knowingly hurt you.”

“I know that…. He was more than just a horse…, he was a gift, and a companion, and a friend…. If I had a silver dollar for every scrape he got me out of…” He finally turned to her. “You do understand, don’t you?”

“It doesn’t matter if I do or not.”

“It does to me.” He pulled her to him and put his arms around her and felt her head against his chest. “I’ve thought about getting another horse on a more permanent basis, but I just don’t think I’m ready.” He could feel her begin to shiver, and his grasp tightened about her. “You’re cold. We should go back into the house.”

“No,” she said meekly, “not yet. I just want to stand out here with you.”

He rested the side of his face against the top of her head and squeezed her closer. They hadn’t been off to themselves like this much since the boys had come, but he wouldn’t change a thing. His lids fell, pushing out a tear that mingled with the strands of her silky hair, and he let her nearness ease the ache in his heart.

*******

Total night had fallen as Joe joined Dave, who had taken a seat on a log, around the campfire, and gave the horses a last glance.

“They settled in all right?” Dave asked as he handed Joe a tin cup of coffee.

Joe thanked him as he took it and squatted before the flames, wrapping his hands around its warmth. “They’re okay, though Adam’s present is a little restless. But I think he’ll calm down for the night.”

“He sure is a beautiful one. Aren’t many born like that.”

“Well, I figured if anybody would have what I wanted it’d be Lyle Curry. But I do havta admit that I wasn’t expecting this much.” Joe took a sip and looked around to where the horses were picketed. “I can hardly wait to get back with him.”

“Are you gonna give im’ to Adam?”

“No, I think that privilege should go to Angelica, and however she wants to do it. After all, it was her idea, and her money that bought him. I just went to get him and picked him out.”

“And you did some mighty good pickin’. Her reaction to him is gonna be as much fun as your brother’s, maybe more. You know how women get over that sorta thing.”

“Yeah,” Joe said with an amused shake of his head as the firelight flicked in his eyes. “And it doesn’t always take a whole lot so imagine when she sees him.”

Dave snickered and took a sip. “Boy, I sure do wish I could have a horse like that, not that anybody’s ever gonna buy me one.”

“Oh, I don’t know. If you meet the right woman, who knows.”

“Offhand I’d say they ain’t many like that’un either. Just from what I’ve seen this first trip and heard from you and Hoss, she loves your brother mighty hard.” He took another sip. “And she give him those three boys.” He clicked his teeth. “Don’t s’pect I’ll ever have anything that good.”

“I suspect that few of us will, but we can sure try.”

“We sure do,” Dave said on a laugh.

“Ain’t that the truth. Now why don’t you get the bacon and a can of those beans from my saddle bags and let’s get supper started?”

“I thought you’d forgot,” Dave said as he sat his cup aside and got up.

“Not likely. My stomach’s been growling for over an hour now.”

Joe tittered as Dave dug eagerly through the saddlebags, leaned back, and took a sip of his coffee. Tomorrow morning they would finally make it back to the Angel, and he hoped that Adam wouldn’t be there so that Angelica could see the horse first. A shiver raced along his spine as he thought of what they were about to put over on his indomitable brother and could almost hear some of the things Adam would say if they managed to pull it off. He giggled again and shook his head as he looked into the depths of his cup, and relished the idea of putting such a thing over on Adam.

ELEVEN

As soon as Adam had ridden out with his father and brother right after breakfast, Angelica had unleashed her nerves. The previous day had been nothing by comparison.

“Miss Angelica, if you don’t sit down I’m gonna tie you to a chair.”

Angelica paid no heed to the threat as she went to one of the windows, and parted the draperies and looked out into the yard. “Why don’t they get here?” she said then whirled on Maggie. “Father Cartwright and Hoss got him away from the house in hopes that Joe would get here while they’re gone.”

“Well, if it’s supposed to be that way then it will be.”

“Oh, you’re a lot of help,” Angelica snipped and resumed her pacing. “There are so many things that could go wrong.”

“And I have no doubt that you’ve thought of them all.”

“Don’t be flippant.”

The bedroom door had been left ajar and the boys could be heard making their little quarrels.

“I think young Addy is going to pick a fight with his brothers again. Do you want me to get him?”

“What?” Angelica said as she stopped, and her eyes drilled into the housekeeper. “Uh…, no, I’ll get him.”

Angelica went into the bedroom and over to the cradle. Addy’s baby hands had balled into perfect little fists, and she knew it would only be a matter of time until he began using them on the other two.

“Well, young man,” she said as she scooped him up, “I’m afraid I can’t let you keep taking out your frustrations on your brothers.” She began bouncing him in her arms, and it did have a calming effect on him. In order to further the effect she started to hum softly and all three began to settle.

“Miss Angelica,” Maggie said breathlessly as she rushed into the room, “they’re here.” The corners of her mouth spread almost to her eyes. “And wait’ll you see what Mr. Joe has with him.” She reached out for the baby. “I’ll stay with ‘em while you go take a look.”

Angelica thanked her as she handed over her son and – gathering her skirt and petticoats into her hands – dashed from the room.

She ran to the front door and jerked it open and shot out onto the porch. Joe and the man he had taken with him were still mounted, a riderless horse between them.

“Well, here he is,” Joe said.

She eased to the edge near the steps, and her hands went to her mouth. Her tear-rimmed eyes roved over the animal, and her heart beat into her throat. “Oh, Joe…, he’s fabulous.”

Never in her life had she seen a more perfect horse. And never in her life had she felt such unbridled excitement. She knew Adam would like him, he had to. He just had to.

*******

It was approaching dinnertime when Adam rode into the yard with his father and Hoss.

“Why don’t you two go on into the house and get cleaned up while I take care of the horses?” Adam said as he reached for the reins of Buck and Chubb.

“Are you sure, son?”

“Of course I am. It’s not like I’m building a railroad.”

They happily agreed while Adam headed to the barn as they started for the house.

As Ben and Hoss got inside, they immediately saw Joe standing by the fireplace with a cup of coffee and carrying on a conversation with his sister-in-law.

“Joe,” Ben said as he hung up his coat, “we were beginning to think you weren’t going to make it in time.”

“Did you git a horse, Joe?”

“Did I ever, and you just wait until you see him.”

Adam led the three horses into the barn and froze in place as his eyes lit on the wiry paint. He grinned and murmured his little brother’s name, but when he started to unsaddle the mare something else caught his attention.
His arms fell to his sides and his long legged stride took him to the no longer empty back stall. Inside stood what had to be one of the most beautiful horses he had ever seen in his life. He put one hand on a well-muscled shoulder then ran it along the strong back. Light came in through the windows and highlighted the pure blue-black coat, unmarred by any other color except for a perfect white star about the size of a postage stamp between the large brown eyes. His mane and tail – the latter hanging just below his hocks – were the very same black, and his long legs were sturdy but not the least bit cumbersome. Then he noticed the red silken ribbon tied around the animal’s neck and the folded piece of paper attached to the end of it. Opening it, he instantly recognized the elegant script.

“My name is Coal Dust,” he read aloud, “but everyone just calls me Dusty. I hope that we can be friends. Happy Birthday, Adam.”

“Do you like him?”

Adam looked around to where his wife stood in the open doorway. “He’s one of the finest horses it’s ever been my privilege to see let alone have as my own. Where did he come from?”

“Joe bought him from a man named Lyle Curry,” she said as she walked to him.

“That explains it,” he said as he ran his hand over the horse’s withers. “Lyle breeds some of the best horses in the country, but how did…?”

“I had searched for something special to get for your birthday without any success, but when you had to put Sport down I knew what it would be. I also knew that it would have to be a very special horse to fill the void that had been left.”

“And you roped my family into helping in your little deception.”

“It didn’t take much roping. Going to see Mr. Curry was Joe’s idea and your father and Hoss heartily agreed.”

“Did Joe pick him out?”

“Yes, he did. What do you think of his selection?”

“I’ve always said that Joe is a fine judge of horseflesh,” he gave the horse a pat, “and this only confirms it. He’s a splendid specimen.”

“And he’s green broke,” she said proudly as she slipped her arm around his.

Adam snickered then kissed her lips. “You’re learning.”

“And you really do like him?”

“How could I not. He’s a real beauty, and he’s a gift from my wife’s heart…. I knew you all were up to something, and I figured it had something to do with your present to me…, but I had no idea.” A toothy grin spread and touched his devious eyes. “You’re good.”

“I have to be.”

As they turned back to the horse she leaned her head over on his shoulder, and they didn’t notice the rest of the family gathered outside the large door. Ben had his hands clasped on his other sons’ shoulders and three faces beamed, but they stayed outside lest they intrude.

*******

Angelica came out onto the porch pulling the front door shut behind her and went down the steps. Night had come and the evening’s festivities and gaiety were in full swing. Still too cold to have the party outside, this failed to daunt the revelers.

She crossed the yard where myriad buggies, carriages, horses and a few disreputable looking buckboards waited for their owners. Carefully, she opened back one of the big barn doors but its squeak gave her away, and she caught a quick hazel-eyed look. She stepped into the lantern’s warm radiance that held back the darkness and went to Dusty’s stall.

“I suspected that I would find you out here,” she said as she brought her shawl closer around her.

“I just needed some fresh air, and I thought Dusty could use the company.”

“Don’t you think someone could think you’re being a little negligent to your guests?”

“Not those who know me,” he said as he stroked the horse’s neck, “and I did ask Pa to take over. He’s a consummate party host, so I knew everybody would be in good hands.” He began running his fingers through the animal’s long forelock. “Wyatt sure is having a good time, isn’t he?”

“That he definitely is. He’s already had three pieces of cake and was starting on his fifth cup of punch when I came out here.”

Adam froze, and his fingers locked in Dusty’s coarse mane. “But he’s drinking from the men’s punch bowl.”

“Yes, he is.”

Adam groaned, and his face pinched. “We’re gonna havta pour that boy into the bunkhouse tonight.”

“It’ll be a good lesson for him.”

“One that none of us seem to learn.”

She moved into the stall next to Adam and lightly rubbed her fingertips over the horse’s silky coat. “I never dreamed that there was such a horse. I told Joe that he had to be perfect and look like you should be on his back, but I didn’t expect him to be this perfect…. And he’s just the right color.”

Adam turned to her and took her shoulders, the light shining in his ardent eyes. “You’re the one in a million, and I’m so glad you were sent to me.” With a loving touch, he ran one hand over her cheek and along the side of her neck. “I love you, Angel, and I love you more and more with each minute of each day…, and that’s what makes the horse perfect, he came from you.”

“Then you aren’t sorry? I was afraid you’d think I was trying to replace Sport, which could never be done.”

“Friends move on all the time and always we don’t want them to. Sport and I had our time together, and now it’s time for me and Dusty.” He glanced over at his gift. “I look forward to it. You can tell he has spirit by his eyes and the way he holds his head,” then a sneaky grin turned his finely sculpted mouth. “And I look forward to when we’re alone tonight…. Well, almost alone, but I don’t think the boys will mind.”

She leaned her head against his chest and felt the security of his arms enclose her. At first she had feared making a mistake by getting the horse, but now she could see that her fears had been unfounded. She let herself sink deeper into him and was once again surprised at the heights her happiness could reach with this wonderful man.

“Now I think we better so back inside.”

“I’d be content to stay out here like this all night,” she said as she snuggled closer to him.

“So would I but, as you reminded me, we do have guests, and it is my party, not my father’s.”

“I hate to admit when you’re right,” she said with a teasing frown.

“That’s because I’m right so many times,” he said with that raised eyebrow and kissed her before she could come out with a smart comeback. “Goodnight, Dusty.” He gave the horse an affectionate pat then left the stall with Angelica.

Adam put out the lantern as they were leaving the barn, and he closed the door. The bar dropped into place outside and the sound of their voices and footfalls gradually faded away, and Dusty returned to his repast of oats. Thanks to the love of a wife for her husband, a father for his son and two men for their brother a wonderful idea had come to fruition. Sport was gone, though never to be forgotten, and Dusty had come to take up the dropped gauntlet and carry it forward. And tonight there was a party to attend.

THE END

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