Written By: Lisa O.

Email: Lisa.M.Orcutt@us.army.mil

THE PERFECT MATCH

By, Lisa O.

Hoss Cartwright looked over at his younger brother who was busy pretending to eat his breakfast. This was the first year Joe was to go to school by himself. He smiled to himself grateful that he didn’t have to go to school. He didn’t mind school, it’s just that he wasn’t real book smart, he liked working with his hands better then working with his mind. He looked over at Pa, and grinned. It would be just him and Hoss now. Adam was off to college. Hoss would be second in command. He could barely wait.

Joe on the other hand was dreading going to school. He was small for his age and without Hoss there he was scared that he would get into a lot of fights.

"Well, boys" Ben said as he looked at both of them. "It’s time to get going, Hoss why don’t you take Joe to school today."

"Yes sir."

"I don’t need him to Pa." Joe snapped.

Ben nodded, "I know, but he needs to get some supplies anyway, so he might as well take you in."

The boys left, Joe was quiet as he rode next to Hoss.

"You sure are quiet little brother." Hoss said.

"I jus’ wish you was comin’ to school is all."

"I know it Joe, but I’m done with schooling."

Joe looked at him and smiled, "hey Hoss what about Tylar Sue?"

Hoss frowned and shifted in his seat. His brother sure knew how to press the right buttons. "What about her Joe?"

"Ain’t ya’ gonna miss her? I know your sweet on her. Ya’ ain’t gonna see her all the time now."

"I ain’t sweet on he Joe."

The nine year old bobbed his head up and down, "yeah ya’ are Hoss."

Hoss looked at him; "no I ain’t little brother."

Joe grinned, then laughed at him. "Yeah ya’ are big brother. You’re sweet on her."

They rode the rest of the way in silence. Each boy caught up in his own thoughts. Hoss was thinking of Tylar, he had known her forever it seems like. Her family moved her the same year Hoss started school. He met her at a town picnic. At the time she only had one sister, and she was just a baby. Her Ma died giving birth to Tylar, so she never got to know her. Hoss told her he didn’t know his Ma either, that Marie was his Step Ma. She nodded and told him that Loretta was her Step Ma. They formed a close bond after that. She was the only girl Hoss ever felt comfortable with. She was easy to talk to and he went to her when he was at lost. He would miss seeing her every day. She would finish school next year. She now had four younger sisters.

Joe was lost in thoughts of school, he hated it and he knew he would hate it more without Hoss.

They arrived at the school in plenty of time. Tylar and her 10-year-old sister Marianne came over to the brothers. Tylar dressed in pants and a shirt. She looked like a boy and if it wasn’t for her hair being so long she could pass for one. That is except her chest was starting to form. Hoss looked away as he turned red on noticing this about his friend.

Joe hopped off of his horse and waved goodbye to his brother and ran to play with Robert.

Hoss looked at Tylar; "you look good." He said shyly.

She smiled and looked at him with the darkest blue eyes he had ever seen. "It ain’t gonna be the same without you here Eric." She said, calling him by his given name. She was the only person that did.

Hoss frowned, "I guess Tylar. I sure will miss you though."

She nodded, "think ya’ can get away later today and we’ll go fishin’? Jus’ me an’ you, no brats okay?"

Hoss nodded, "I think I can. Same spot?"

She nodded and grinned. "Well I better get. Don’t worry about little Joe I’ll look out for him as if he was my own."

"I know you will."

"Well bye Eric, don’t work to hard."

He smiled at her, "not me don’t ya’ worry none. Seeya after school."

She turned to watch over the little ones and Hoss rode off.

He daydreamed about her all day. What was going on with him? He sure wished Adam was here to talk to. He could go to his Pa, but he’d feel more right talking to Adam. But he’s in Boston, so far away.

Hoss met Tylar for fishing later that day. They fished quietly next to each other, just content to be with one another. Their relationship was changing and they both knew it.

Hoss continued to meet with her once a week, they told each other their darkest secrets. He knew she came from a bad home. They rarely had enough food, and Tylar would go without so her sisters could eat. Because of this Hoss always brought her food when he met her. She never asked him too he just would. He began to look forward to meeting with her every Wednesday.

Tylar could barely wait to see Hoss, she liked him since the first time she met him and she was only 4 at the time. But sometimes you just know, and she knew he was her soul mate. They were met for each other. One day she would be Mrs. Eric Cartwright. She knew this was true from the bottom of her heart. Nobody understood her like Eric did. She didn’t need to tell him if she was upset he always knew. He never made her talk about it would just give her one of his bear hugs and she would feel better. She wished that her mother was alive so she could talk to her. Loretta was not a good woman and she would not talk to her.

After a month, Hoss felt he had to talk to Pa. He waited until Joe went to bed, then he approached his father. "Pa, can I talk to you?"

Ben nodded and put the paper down. He was waiting on Hoss to come to him for a while, he knew something was going on in the boy’s mind and he was looking forward to hearing what was troubling his middle boy.

"Uh, Pa" Hoss began as he sat down next to him. "Pa, I know about the birds and the bees, but what I don’t know is how do you know if you are in love?"

Ben smiled as he sat back. He wasn’t to surprised by his son’s question. "Well son, that is a difficult question. There is no easy answer I’m afraid."

"Well Pa, how’d ya’ know ya’ was in love with my Ma? And Marie? How’d ya’ know? Were there signs or something?"

Ben signed, "there were no signs Hoss, only feelings. Feelings not easily explained either. It’s something you know deep down inside of you. When you look at the person you feel a peace you have never felt before. You know that you are meant to be with that person. You can tell them anything, even things you have never told another soul before in your life. Hoss, you know. Trust me you know."

Hoss nodded and looked away from his father, what his father just described was how he felt when he was with Tylar.

"Son, did that help?"

Hoss looked at him, "I think it did Pa."

"Is there a special lady in your life?"

Hoss blushed; "heck no Pa, it’s jus’ that…well Pa it’s like this…" He stopped as he struggled to explain what was going on in his heart. "It’s Tylar Pa, I’ve known her all my life it seems. But recently, I don’t know Pa I jus’ feel different is all."

Ben nodded, he knew the girl in question was Tylar, he was quit fond of the girl, but he disliked her family a lot. "Maybe, you’ve fallen in love with her."

Hoss looked at him like he was just plain stupid. "No Pa."

Ben smiled, "Ya’ never know son."

"But she would never love me. I mean Pa just look at me. I ain’t handsome and I’m big and clumsy. She wouldn’t want me. Girls like men like Adam and even Joe when he gets older that is."

Ben looked at him, "oh son, any woman would be lucky to have you. You a fine looking boy, but what makes you special is your heart."

"But is it enough Pa?"

"I think it is."

Hoss excused himself and went to bed, but when he reached the top of the stairs he faced his little brother, which was looking at him with a smirk on his face and his hands on his hips.

"Shouldn’t you be in bed?"

Joe shrugged and looked at him, "I told ya’ you were sweet on Tylar. I can read you like a book big brother."

"Listen short shacks, shut up now."

He didn’t intimate Joe. "Ah Hoss, you gonna marry her and have babies."

"Listen you, shut up."

"Hey, I think it’s cute. You an’ her would make such a cute couple. Can I be your best man Hoss? Or are ya’ gonna pick Adam?’

Hoss frowned, he wasn’t finding it funny. "I said shut up Joe and I mean it."

Joe looked up at him and laughed, "ah don’t go gettin’ all upset big brother, I jus’ love it."

"What do you love?"

"You being in love. It’s cute Hoss."

"Go to bed little Joe, I’m tired of talking to you." Hoss said rather roughly. He regretted it when he saw the hurt look on the boy’s face.

"You sound like Adam now, just as mean!" Joe snapped, then turned and went into his room.

Hoss watched him go and followed him in. He found the little boy lying on his bed, crying. Hoss felt bad, he didn’t like to see his little brother crying, much less being the cause of the tears. He sat on the bed and rubbed Joe’s back. "Ah, Joe I’m sorry. I didn’t mean to hurt you. You just got me riled up is all."

Joe didn’t answer.

"Ah come on short shacks, I’m sorry."

Joe turned and looked at him, he whipped his tears on his sleeve. "I didn’t mean to make ya’ upset Hoss. Don’t get mad at me, I can’t stand it when you’re mad at me."

Hoss hugged him and kissed the top of his head, "I love ya’ baby brother. Now lay down and sleep before Pa’ whips both of us."

Joe laid down and fell asleep.

Hoss went to his room and lay in his bed thinking about Tylar and what his Pa’ had said about love. Could it be true? Could Hoss love her? He sure did like being around her; he knew that for sure. He knew Tylar liked him as a friend, but would she ever love him? He really didn’t know and he was real scared to tell her how he felt in case she didn’t love him. Hoss took a deep breath, he would have to tell her, and he would just have to. He would risk it, he loves her and he needs to know if she felt the same way.

The next morning, he woke up in a good mood, prepared to do what he had to do. He went to his brother’s room and opened the door. Joe was asleep. Hoss smiled and went over to him, he shake his brother and pulled him up. Joe opened his eyes and frowned. "Just a little longer Hoss."

"Nah come on little brother."

Joe frown deepened and he stood up.

After supper, Hoss rode out to Tylar’s. He knew she would be working in the barn and went straight there. He smiled as he watched her work.

She turned when she felt someone watching her. She turned around to face Eric. She smiled at him. "Hey Eric, what a surprise."

Hoss frowned when he saw her; she had a black eye. "Ah, Ty. What happened?"

She frowned and looked away from him, then she looked at him. "My Pa’ hit me."

He went over to her and hugged her. She hugged him back and started to cry. She didn’t understand why she was crying. She felt so relived to be in Eric’s arms, it felt safe. She hugged him tighter and stopped crying as she felt a peace come over her. She knew all would be okay as long as Eric was there.

He looked at her, "you okay?"

She nodded.

"Let’s sit down and talk. I gotta tell you something before I loose my nerve."

They sat down, he was nervous to tell her how he felt, and she was scared to death that he was going to tell her he had a girlfriend and that they would never be.

"Tylar, we’ve known each other a long time haven’t we?" He asked as he played with his hat and refused to look at her.

She nodded, "yeah Eric. Forever it seems."

He looked at her quickly then looked away again. "Uh..Um Ty, what I want to say is kinda hard for me."

She placed her hand on his leg, "just tell me, after all we’re friends you can tell me anything."

He nodded, "I know it Ty, I know that. But you see, I….I really like you Tylar, really do."

She cringed to herself, here it comes she thought. She remained silent letting him, get the nerve to tell her.

He looked at her, "oh heck Ty, I don’t just like ya’. I think I love you." He blurted out.

She looked at him as what he said registered in her mind, when it did she fought the urge to jump up and yell for joy. "You love me Eric?" She asked quietly.

He nodded, and looked down. He was scared now that he told her she would tell him she didn’t love him.

Tylar threw her arms around him, "Oh Eric, I have been wanting to hear that since I was four. I love you too."

He wrapped his arms around her to and hugged her back.

Then they kissed and they knew they were meant for each other.

After they parted they just looked at each other for a long moment. "I can’t believe you love me." Hoss whispered.

She smiled, "what’s there not to love Eric?"

"I don’t think I have ever been happier and that’s for sure."

She laughed and hugged him again; she wanted to stay in his arms forever. "Not as happy as me."

He squeezed her back, "oh now I don’t know about that."

Hoss left to go home, shortly after that. He was in high spirits and could hardly wait to tell his Pa.

He ran into the house, "Pa!" He called.

Joe came running over to him and hugged him, "hey Hoss, where ya’ been? Aren’t ya’ gonna play checkers with me?"

Hoss looked down at his brother; he loved Joe more then anyone else in the world…except maybe Tylar that is…"Sure short shacks. Where’s Pa?"

"I’m here son." Ben called from the desk.

Hoss looked at Joe again, "go set it up okay? I’ll be right over there."

Joe nodded and ran to do what his brother had told him to do.

Hoss went over to his father, "can we talk Pa?"

Ben nodded, "sure son. Are you okay?"

Hoss nodded, and grinned. "Oh yes sir, I’m just fine now. Can’t get no better I tell ya’ jus’ no better."

Ben smiled at his son’s happiness, "you gonna tell me why?"

Hoss nodded, "Pa, I told Tylar how I felt."

"And? What did she say Hoss?"

"She hugged me and told me she loved me too. Can you believe it Pa? She loves me."

"I could’ve told ya’ she’d love you. After all what’s not to love?"

He laughed, then looked at him, "that’s what she said Pa."

Ben grinned and got up and hugged his son, "I’m happy for you son."

Hoss looked at him, "you do approve don’t ya’?"

"Yes, I approve. Now go play checkers with Joe before he throws a fit."

Hoss went over to Joe and played checkers with his brother. They played quietly until Pa sent Joe to bed.

"Ah, Pa come on," Joe pleaded.

"Go young man. I will be up shortly to hear your prayers."

"But Pa I wanna stay up like Hoss does."

"Joe, go to bed."

Joe looked at his father and knew he couldn’t press the issue any more. He stood up and walked up the stairs.

Ben watched his youngest son go to bed and he knew he would have a lot of trouble with that one as he grew.

Hoss stood up, "well Pa, I’m going to bed as well. G’night Pa."

Ben smiled at his middle son, "good night son."

Hoss went up and fell asleep quickly.

Ben sat down and smiled to himself, he was so happy for his boy. Hoss deserved to be happy, he had the biggest heart of anyone he has ever known.

Tylar met Little Joe when he got to school, "Eric didn’t come with ya’?"

Joe shook his head, "Pa had him working before I left. I told them I didn’t need a babysitter anyway."

Tylar smiled, "no you don’t Joe, come on though school is about to start."

Joe nodded and left with her, "you like my brother don’t ya’?"

Tylar looked at him and put her arm around him, "yeah I do, I think I may love him."

Joe made a face and ran off. He didn’t want to hear that.

Tylar smiled as she watched him run away. He was going to break a lot of hearts as he grew up. Her mind went to Eric and she felt she had the best one out of the whole Cartwright clan. In fact he was the best in the whole town. She walked into the school, or more less floated she was on cloud nine. The boy of her dreams loves her as much as she loved him.

Hoss and Tylar spent as much time as they could together. Hoss had meant her parents and was not impressed. Her father had a mean look to him and her Ma’ was pregnet again. They were hoping for a boy this time.

"Pa’," Hoss said one morning after Joe left for school.

Ben looked at him, "what is it Hoss?"

"Can I invite Tylar over for supper tonight?"

"Think her parents will let her?"

"To tell the truth Pa’ I don’t think they care much." Hoss said sadly. He loved her a lot and it bothered him that she was treated badly by her own father. She was awful skinny from not eating right.

Ben nodded, "I think your right son. I would love to have her over for supper."

Hoss looked at him and grinned, "thanks Pa’ I can’t wait to tell her."

Hoss picked her up that night and took her to the house. She was nervous but tried not to show it.

Hoss noticed her being nervous, "Ty, don’t you worry none. It’ll be jus’ fine."

She nodded and snuggled closer to him. "I know Eric, but I can’t help it."

He kissed the top of her head, and they rode the rest of the way in silence.

Supper went really good; Hop Sing made fried chicken for the occasion. Ben kept the conversation light so not to make the young lady nervous. Joe looked over at her, "so are you an’ Hoss gonna get hitched?" He asked with innocents of a child.

Tylar blushed, and looked down at her plate.

Hoss glared at his brother, "dadburnit Joe, you don’t know when to keep your mouth shut do ya’?"

"Ah, it’s okay Eric," Tylar said as she winked at Joe. "As to the answer to your question Joe I ain’t sure yet, only time will tell."

Joe nodded, "I wouldn’t mind at all if ya’ did."

"Well thank you Little Joe."

Joe grinned and took another bite of his supper.

Hoss continued to see Tylar on almost a daily basis. He began to hate being with out her. He dreamt about her, as well as thought about her all the time when he was awake.

Then after the New Year, he decided he would ask her to marry him. He went to his father first.

"Pa’ I need to talk to you."

Ben nodded and looked at him.

"Pa’, I really like Tylar. You know that don’t ya’?"

Ben nodded, "I do."

"Pa’, I was thinkin’ of askin’ her to marry me. I think I could make it work. I can work hard to get money. I do most of the cattle part now. There’s that piece of land you gave me; I’d like to build a house there. That way I will still be here on the Ponderosa."

Ben smiled; he knew Hoss would sooner or later ask Tylar to be his wife. He was thrilled that Hoss wanted to stay here. "Do you think Tylar would want to live here?"

"Yeah, I do."

Ben nodded, "well you have my blessing son. I am impressed that you have thought about this so much. I am also very happy that you wish to stay here. I hope you will allow me to help you build your house. Until we get it done, you and Tylar can live here."

Hoss grinned, "really Pa?"

"Yes, son really."

"Ah thanks Pa’ thanks a lot."

Ben stood up and walked over to him and placed his arms around his middle son. "I will do anything son, in my power to make you happy."

"Think Joe will be okay with all of this?"

Ben smiled and squeezed his shoulder, here he is making one of the biggest decisions of his life and he thinks of his little brother. "Son, your brother will be fine. He will miss you, but you’ll still be around and he knows that Tylar won’t take you away from him."

Hoss frowned, "ya’ don’t think it’s too much, ya’ know with Adam gone right now as it is."

"Now Hoss, Joe will be just fine. I promise ya’ that."

"Now you’ll let me tell him won’t ya’ Pa’?"

"Sure son, you can tell him. Are you going to talk to her parents?"

"Guess I hafta."

"Do you think you’ll have any trouble with them?"

Hoss shook his head, "nah, hell her Pa’ will let me take her now if that’s what I aim to do."

Ben nodded, "think they’ll come to the wedding?"

"Oh. I’m sure they will. It’s the proper thing to do after all Pa’"

Ben nodded. "Yes it is the proper thing to do. If they didn’t show up no tellin’ what the town will think of that. I would like to have the engagement party here if that’s alright with you son."

"Oh I’d love that Pa’, that would be great."

"When are you going to ask her?"

"Tonight Pa’, I promised her we’d go for a moonlight walk. I aim to ask her then. I think it’ll be right purity then."

"I think it will, I think she will say yes." Ben walked around to his desk and pulled out a box. He looked at the box then at his son. "Son, when I asked your mother to marry me, I asked her on a moonlight walk. I have been saving this for you to present to your future wife since your mothers death." He handed Hoss the box.

Hoss took a deep breath then opened the box. He found a beautiful diamond ring and a gold band. His eyes filled with tears, "ya’ mean it Pa’? I can really give this to Tylar? Think Ma’ would’ve approved of it? Of her?"

"I think she would be so happy for you. Yes son she would approve, there is no doubt in my mind that she would approve."

Hoss smiled, "thanks Pa’."

Joe came home an hour later. He smiled when Hoss suggest they go for a walk. Joe had gotten in trouble in school and if he talked to Hoss it would put off talking to his Pa’ and the lecture and possible the whipping, he was sure he would receive.

Joe and Hoss went to the lake and sat down for a minute.

"Well Hoss what is it? What’s so important?" Joe demanded, picking up a rock and throwing it in the lake.

"I wanted to tell you something Joe. I felt like I should be the one to tell you."

Again Joe threw a rock out, "what is it Hoss?"

Hoss frowned, he knew that Joe will take it hard. He would think Hoss was leaving him, just like Adam did. Just like his Mama did.

Joe looked at Hoss and hit him lightly on the arm, "come on Hoss tell me."

Hoss signed, "you know I really like Tylar don’t ya’?"

Joe shook his head, "ah now don’t you go and talk about love too. That’s gross Hoss."
Hoss smiled, "who else has talked to you about love little brother?"

"Tylar, she tells me she loves you."

"Really Joe?"

"Yeah really Hoss."

"Uh…anyway Little Joe, I love her, I really do. I can’t imagine life without her. I know you don’t understand that Joe, but you will. Joe, I am going to ask her to be my wife."

Joe stood up and looked at his brother. Shock was all over his face. "Www..ww what..dd uh..does tthat mean?"

Hoss frowned when he heard Joe stutter, "it means that I love her and want her to be my wife. If she’ll have me, I’ll make her a wonderful husband."

"OH she’ll have ya’!"

"Joe don’t be upset, it ain’t gonna change anything between me and you."

"Uh-huh" Joe pouted as he sat down.

Hoss sat next to him, "Listen Little Joe, I love you always will. Nothin’ will ever change that."

Joe shook his head, "yyy…you wwwill leeave me. Jus’ like Aaaddamm."

"No Joe, no," Hoss said as he put his arm around his brother and pulled him to him. "We’ll gonna live right here on the ranch and you’ll see me everyday. We’ll still go fishing and camping and any other thing you want to do."

Joe looked at him, "but what if Tylar won’t let ya’ Hoss?"

"She will Joe, she loves you."

Joe frowned, and shook his head.

"Joe now you know how important you are to me don’t ya’’?"

Joe just shrugged and looked away from his beloved brother.

Hoss tightened his hold on him and kissed the top of his head, "Joe you are about the most important person in my life and nothin’ can change that. I made a promise to you that I would always be there for you and I meant it. I ain’t never gonna leave ya’. Dadburnit Joe I couldn’t stand life without you. I need you in my life Joe. I ain’t meaning to hurt ya’, not for nothin’ in the world."

Joe looked at him and smiled, then hugged him.

Hoss smiled as he wrapped his arms around his young brother. He was always surprised at how small Joe was.

Joe looked at Hoss and nodded, "I’m sorry Hoss, you should be happy."

Hoss grinned, "now I will be little brother."

Joe nodded and stood up, he kicked the dirt and looked at Hoss, "I’m in trouble Hoss."

"How Joe?"

"I fell asleep in school today. The teacher sent home a note."

"Just for falling asleep?"

Joe shook his head, "no Hoss, I also got into a fight."

"Ah Joe, with who?"

"Some new kid. It wasn’t nothin’ jus’ a little pushin’ an’ the teacher got all mad at me and sent me to the corner. That’s when I fell asleep. I was jus’ plum tired I guess."

Hoss stood up, "well Joe, you are in some trouble. Let’s go and get it over with."

"Think he’ll give me a whippin’?"

Hoss signed, "I’m sure he will Joe."

Joe frowned and bit his lower lip. "Ah Hoss, I don’t want a whippin’."

"I know ya’ don’t Joe but there ain’t much ya’ can do about it."

Joe signed and looked at his Mama’s grave.

They left for home.

Sure enough Joe got a lecture and a whipping. He was restricted to the house for three days and the yard and barn for a month.

Hoss went and spook to Tylar’s father after he brought Joe home. He went to where Mr. Lacquer worked. "May I speak to you sir?" He asked.

Tylar’s father looked at the boy, that has been courting his daughter and nodded.

Hoss took a deep breath, "uhm sir as you know I have been courting your daughter, I have grown quit fond of her. I wanted to ask you for your permission to ask her to marry me."

He nodded, "I give it to ya’ son."

Hoss smiled, "I’ll take care of her, I promise ya’ that."

"There’s no doubt in my mind that you will son. Now I gotta get back to work."

Hoss nodded and put his hand out; Mr. Lacquer grabbed it roughly and then released it quickly and left to go back to work.

Hoss left to fetch Tylar right after supper.

They walked quietly for a while, and then he stopped at his favorite spot on the Ponderosa. "Let’s sit for a while Tylar."

She nodded and sat with him.

Hoss looked at her and smiled, "I love you Tylar."

"I know and I love you."

"I have never felt like this before Tylar, you make me so happy. I didn’t think I would ever be this happy."

Tylar nodded, "I feel that way too."

"Good, that makes this easier. I want to ask you something."

She smiled, "go ahead."

He got on one knee and pulled out the ring, "Tylar you have made me the happiest person alive. Now can you make me even happier by becoming my wife?"

"Oh, Eric yes I will." She said as she threw her arms around him.

He squeezed her back and kissed her. "Now let me put the ring on you." He said as he slipped it on her finger.

She stared at it as tears welled up in her eyes, "Oh my God it is beautiful."

"It was my Ma’s ring, Pa’ gave it to me when I told him I was gonna ask you to be my wife."

"Then he approves?"

"Oh yeah he approves."

"What about Little Joe? He’s so close to you, he might get upset. Adam left for school, his Ma’ died, he may think you’re leaving too."

Hoss smiled at her, she was so understanding. "He took it just fine. He was a little upset but I talked to him and he’s okay. He got a whippin’ by Pa’ I guess he got in trouble at school."

Tylar smiled, "yeah a little."

"He always does."

Tylar looked at him, "didja’ ask my Pa?’

"Yeah I did, he said yes."

She placed her head on his shoulder; "I am the luckiest person in the world."

He put his arm around her and held her tight, "Nah I think I am."

She just smiled.

"My Pa’ wants to hold the engagement party at the ranch. Is that okay?"

"Yeah it’s fine."

"Ya’ don’t have to worry about money either, I’ll take care of you."

"I ain’t worried about that Eric, I know you will take care of me." She looked at him, "and I will take care of you."

He nodded, "I know you will.’

Soon he took her home then went home as well.

The following week, Ben threw an engagement party. He had sent word to Adam about the engagement and was waiting on a response.

The party was a huge success, everyone in Virginia City seemed to come and wish the young couple the best. Hoss being shy held fast to Tylar’s hand. He even danced with only her and only released his hold on her when his father stepped in and asked her to dance. Hoss gave his fiancée to his father.

Ben held her close and looked into her blue eyes, "I wanted to talk to you Tylar."

She nodded, she knew this was coming.

"Hoss is a very sensitive boy. He has a huge heart and he easily trusts people. So he gets hurt rather easy. He is a bright boy, he just doesn’t realize yet. He loves children and the family life. His feelings are easy to read he wears all of his emotions right up front. He can’t lie to save his life. He cries easy, don’t let my boy get hurt."

She smiled at her future father in law, " I would rather die then hurt Eric. I have loved him since the first time I saw him. I know how sensitive he is and that is one of the things I love about him. I know he is a family person and he knows about my family, I need Eric, I can’t live without him."

Ben smiled, "You are perfect for him."

"Thank you Mr. Cartwright."

"Call me Ben, after all we will be family."

She smiled and nodded.

Joe walked over and poked his father, "may I cut in Pa’?’

Ben looked down and smiled at his son, "you may."

Joe started to dance with Tylar, he was a lot shorter then her, but she just smiled at him, and realized what a heartbreak this boy would grow to be. "Okay Ty, I want to talk to you." He said, trying to look serious.

"Okay go ahead and talk Joe."

"I jus’ wanna say that you can’t hurt my brother. I won’t let ya’."

"I know you won’t Joe and I have no plans on hurting your brother. I love him Joe."

Joe nodded, "I know ya’ do. Don’t take him away from me either. I need Hoss in my life."

"Oh Joe, I would never take him away. Eric wouldn’t be the person I love if he left here."

Joe smiled and hugged her suddenly, then quickly walked away.

Hoss came over, "what was that about?’

"Just Joe laying down the law is all.’

Hoss nodded.

The party ended late and Hoss and Tylar had no more time alone the rest of the evening.

A month later Loretta, Tylar’s step Ma was giving birth in the family’s house. Tylar held her four sisters close to her. She could hear her screaming in agony. Doc. Martin was in there with her.

Her youngest sister, who was only 3, cried and clung to her sister.

Tylar rocked her, "ssh, Jolene it’s okay. Mama will be fine. I promise. Stop crying."

"Ty, are you sure Ma’s okay?" Dorothy asked, she was 7 years old.

Marianne nodded as she scooted closer to Tyler; "Ma’ will be fine right Ty?’

Tyler smiled at her sisters, "don’t any of ya’ worry."

"But I’m scared." Rachel said as she paced the floor. She was 8.

"Rachel, come and sit with us, " Tyler ordered.

Rachel sat with her sisters. Soon Doctor Martin came out, he looked grim. Tyler went over to him, "How is she Doc? How's the baby?"

Doc. Martin looked at the young lady in front of him, "I’m sorry Tyler, the baby didn’t make it."

Tyler started at him, "what?"

"He was born dead, there was nothing I could do."

"It was a boy?"

He nodded.

"How’s my Ma’?’ Marianne asked.

"She’s weak, but she should be fine."

After the Doctor left, Tyler put her sisters to bed, her father had yet to come out of the room. Tyler had a feeling something bad was going to happen. She couldn’t sleep, she just stayed awake and watched over her sisters.

Early in the morning, maybe three o’clock, she heard her father yelling. Tyler quietly snuck out of the room to see what was going on. She went to her parent’s room, and looked in. She saw her father over Loretta with a knife in his hand. The knife was already covered with blood. He was yelling at her as he continued to stab the knife into his wife. He was blaming her for killing his boy and only leaving him with girls. He told her he was sick of girls, he didn’t want them. Then he grabbed his gun and announced he would kill all of the girls in the house.

Tyler frowned as she was gripped with fear, she knew her father would kill her. She went back to the room and woke up her sisters. She and Marianne threw what they could in a bag, grabbed extra blankets and wrapped up the little ones.

The didn’t ask any questions as Tyler made them climb out a window and run toward the Ponderosa.

She led her sisters to a cabin Hoss had showed her once. It took the rest of the night to get to it and the sun was up when they closed the door.

Tyler told them to be quiet and she would go get some food and make sure their tracks are gone .She went and gathered some berries and then she was lucky by catching a rabbit. She went back to the cabin and cooked the rabbit.

Sheriff Coffee came out to the Ponderosa as they were sitting down for breakfast, "what do we owe this visit for Roy?" Ben asked.

He frowned, and glanced at Hoss. "I came to speak to Hoss."

"What about?" Ben asked.

"Last night Loretta gave birth, the baby was a boy and born dead. It seems after the Doc left Peter lost his mind and stabbed his wife to death. I’m sure he was going to kill everyone in that house, but the girls ran off. I can’t locate the girls or Peter. I was wondering if Hoss would know where Tyler would hide out at."

Hoss stood up and shook his head. He was so scared for her he was almost in tears. "If she ran off it was just to protect the little ones. She would never let anything happen to them. She ain’t in any trouble is she?"

"No Hoss I just want to find her before her Pa does. I really think he aims to kill all of them babies. He has all of his guns with him. I think he’s lost his mind."

"You can’t let anything happen to her. I’ll go with you and help you look. She might get scared if she sees all of you. She might think she’s in trouble."

Ben looked at Hoss, "are you sure you want to do this son?’

"I gotta Pa, she’s gonna be my wife."

Ben nodded and allowed his son to go.

They searched until nightfall then Hoss came home. He was tired and went straight to his room, when he closed the door and lit the light he was in shock to see Tyler sitting on his bed. She put her finger to her lip.

He grinned and went over to her and hugged her.

After they parted she looked at him and smiled, "oh Eric, I’m sorry, but I didn’t know where else to go. My Pa’ killed my Ma’ and the baby died. He was going to kill all of us I know it, I had to run and take my sisters. I had to save them. You ain’t mad at me are you Eric?"

He pulled her close to him, "oh baby no, I love you. I was worried, but never mad. Are your sisters okay?"

She nodded, "yeah, we’re hiding in that cabin you showed me."

Hoss smiled, "you’re smart, real smart. But you don’t need to hide."

"Uh-huh, my Pa’s still after me. He’s gonna kill us, I know he will. I’m scared."

"No Ty no. We can help you. You’ll be safe I promise you."

"No Eric, I gotta protect my sisters. I can’t leave them and I can’t let them be taken from me." She looked at him, "but I can’t live with out you either. I just don’t know what to do."

Hoss frowned as he thought about it, he didn’t know what to do either. He knew if the girls came out of hiding, they would be sent to an orphanage and they would be separated. But they couldn’t hide for their whole lives. What would they do for money? How would they live? Where would they live? He didn’t want her to leave either, he needed her too damn much, couldn’t live with out her.

He took a deep breath as he came to a decision; "I could help you Tyler."

"How?"

"I could leave with you and help you make a living. I could get food for you and make sure that everyone in warm."

She shook her head, "no Eric. I can’t let you do that. You love it here too much, you need to be here."

"No, I need to be with you. I do love this place and when you’re ready we will come back, but right now I need to be with you."

"Eric, what about your Pa and Joe?"

"Adam will be home soon, don’t worry they’ll be fine."

"But you love them so much."

"And I love you so damn much. Listen I am going and you can’t stop me. You’re gonna be my wife, I can’t loose you."

She hugged him and thanked God on letting Eric Cartwright into her life.

They started to pack up some stuff for Hoss, then he wrote a quick note to Pa and they left.

Unknowingly to the young lovers was Little Joe, he had stood by Hoss’ door during the whole exchange. He started to cry when he heard that Hoss would be leaving and to make matters worse Adam will be coming back. Joe shook his head, dreading the thought of life here with just Adam and Pa’. He needed Hoss in his life; there was no way he could stand life with out his beloved older brother. Hoss was the most important person in his life. Besides Hoss promised him that he would always take care of him, now how can he do that if he is not here? Well that’s it then, Joe will just haveto go with them. He ran back to his room and wrote a quick note and threw some stuff in a bag and left after Hoss.

Joe followed the two at a safe distance, so Hoss wouldn’t know until it was too late to send him home. Joe managed to follow them all the way to the cabin, he waited outside for an hour, then decided to sneak up to the widow and peak in. Hoss was asleep, as was Tyler. Marianne was awake, and the three little ones were sleeping.

Joe went to the door and quietly walked in, Marianne spun around and started at him in shock. She walked over to him, "oh Joe what are you doing here?"

He frowned and looked at the sleeping form of his brother, "I can’t live without Hoss."

Marianne nodded; she knew how close the two were.

Hoss sat up at hearing the voices; he came fully awake when he saw his brother, "Dadburnit Joseph!" He bellowed as he stood up. "What the hell are you doing here?"

"You just left me. How could you do that Hoss? I had to come after ya’. Don’t worry about Pa’, Adam’s gonna be home soon."

"You gotta go home little brother."

"No Hoss and you can’t make me!"

"Oh yes I can!"

No you can’t, cause if ya’ do I’ll just tell everyone where you’re at."

"We ain’t gonna stay here for long Joe."

I ain’t leaving Hoss; I can’t live at the ranch with out you. Besides, you promised me that you would never leave me."

"Ah Joe this is different."

"No it ain’t Hoss, you can’t leave not without me."

Hoss went over to his brother and put his arm around him, "little brother, Pa’ will kill me if I take you."

Joe started to cry and he got mad at himself for crying in front of girls and Tyler and Marianne were looking at him. "Please Hoss, I jus’ can’t stay without you. I need ya’ too. You’re my brother and my best friend. Don’t leave me Hoss, let me go with ya’."

Hoss hugged him and looked over at Tyler who only shrugged.

Hoss sat Joe down after he stopped crying and got him to sleep. He looked at Tyler, "what do you think we should do?’

Tyler shrugged, "I think he will tell if we don’t take him. Why don’t we take him for a while and maybe he’ll get homesick and want to go home."

Hoss nodded, thinking that was the best solution for now.

They rested for a while longer, then started to walk away from the ranch. Hoss grew to be grateful that Joe was along, it helped having another boy along. The girls were no good with hunting or fishing, and they got scared easy. Joe was real good with Jolene and he would often put the young girl on his shoulders and make her laugh.

Ben woke up the next morning and was surprised that Hoss was not up yet, he waited until he finished his first cup of coffee then went to wake his son. He opened the door calling his son’s name, his voice caught in his throat when he saw that his son was not in his bed. At first he thought maybe Hoss was already up to get ready for the search party on Tyler. But his heart sank when he saw the note, with shaky hands he picked up the note and read it;

Dear Pa’

Don’t be mad at me, I am safe and I am with Tyler. I needed to

do this Pa. Please don’t worry, I will be safe, but I love her and

need to keep her safe. So I need to be with her, no matter

what. Pa I love you very much, take care of Little Joe for me.

Your Son;

Eric

Ben stared at the note for a long moment. He couldn’t believe Hoss had ran off. He knew he loved her, but he never thought he would chose her over his family. He must be really in love with her. A part of him was impressed that Hoss would do such a bold thing for a girl. That he would give up everything for one person, it filled Ben with a pride he didn’t quit understand. Even while his heart broke at the lose of him, and he would go and look for him.

Ben stood up and ran his hand threw his hair, he took a deep breath and went to wake his youngest son. When he opened Joe’s door, his heart sank. He saw the note on this bed as well and slowly approached the bed and picked up the note.

PA’

PLEASE DON’T BE MAD. I HAD TO LEAVE AND FOLLOW HOSS

SEE HE LEFT WITH TYLAR AND I KNOW I SHOULD HAVE GOTTEN YOU BUT I JUST FOLLOWED HIM. I AM GONNA MAKE HIM TAKE ME WITH HIM. HE WILL TAKE CARE OF ME, DON’T YOU WORRY NONE. I AM SURE ADAM WILL BE HOME SOON SO YOU WILL BE OKAY.

I LOVE YOU PA’

NOW DON’T WORRY, WE’LL BE JUST FINE.

LOVE YA’

JOE

Ben sat heavy on his son’s bed, and put his head in his hands and cried; now he had two boys gone. He had to find them. How could Joe do that? Didn’t he realize what it would do to him? Ben stood up and went downstairs; he told Hop Sing what the boys had done and then went to tell the hands to form a search party.

They started to search for the seven missing children as a posse chased Peter, who was still trying to track his girls to kill them.

Ben slept little over the next two days, he knew Hoss would take care of Joe, but there was also them four baby girls that Hoss needed to look out for. Was he old enough to do it? Was he mature enough to do it?

It was late at night, three days after Peter killed his wife, when a lone rider rode up to the ranch house. All of the lights were out and it was so quiet. The rider was dressed all in black and he sat tall and straight in the saddle. A small smile played on his lips as he looked at the house. He stopped his horse and just surveyed the area. He took a deep breath and finished the rest of the ride. He got off of his horse and put her up in the barn. Then he dusted himself off, grabbed his saddlebag and headed toward the house.

Adam Cartwright walked into the house and was stunned by the utter quietness of the house. He felt like the house was empty, instead of all of the occupants asleep. He debated on yelling for his father, but he didn’t want to wake up Little Joe. Adam signed and went up to his own room; he laid down on his bed and was asleep before his head hit the pillow.

He woke the next morning in a good mood; he was looking forward to seeing his family. He wondered how much bigger Joe has gotten, and Hoss he was sure that boy had grown. He was engaged after all. That surprised Adam when he got the letter from his Pa’. He was sure he would get married before his little brothers. But he was thrilled for his brother anyway. Hoss deserved to be happy.

Adam decided to wake Hoss up, he went to his room and frowned when he saw the bed empty. Did he sleep that long?

Adam shrugged it off and went to wake Joe, he knew that boy would still be sleeping. But when he opened the door, he found it empty as well. Now he was puzzled, there is no way that boy got up already.

He went downstairs, as he did Hop Sing came out of the kitchen. He started at shock at the oldest Cartwright. "Mister Adam, so good to see you." He gushed as he went over to him and hugged him quickly, then stepped back and looked at him. "You too skinny, school food not as good as Hop Sing."

Adam smiled, "no Hop Sing, your food is the best."

Hop Sing smiled, "what you here for? Surprise honorable Father?"

Adam nodded, "where are they anyway?"

"You no know do you?"

Adam shook as head, but before the cook could explain the door opened and a weary Ben Cartwright walked in. Adam looked at him and had a feeling of dread as he saw the look of despair on his father’s face.

"Hello Pa."

Ben looked up at the familiar voice; he stared at his oldest son and smiled. He went over to Adam and hugged him tight. "Oh Adam I didn’t know you were here. When did you get in? How long are you staying?’

Adam smiled and looked at his father, "I got here last night. I can stay until fall. I took the winter and summer off. I wanted to be here until Hoss got married. I didn’t want to miss that."

Ben frowned and looked away from his son.

"What is it Pa?"

Ben signed and told him what had happened over the last couple days.

Adam had sat down as Ben finished. He shook his head. He understood why Hoss ran off, but he couldn’t understand Joe.

"Why did Little Joe run off Pa’?"

Ben shrugged, "he’s a child Adam. He thought his protector was leaving him. He got scared and ran off after him."

"Well Pa’, you know Hoss will take care of him, he will protect Joe with his life if needs be."

Ben nodded, "I know, but he’s only nine and Hoss is just sixteen. They’re both so young to be out on their own. Then there are the girls to handle as well. I would just feel safer if we found them."

Adam nodded and ran his hand threw his thick black hair. "Well don’t worry Pa’, I’ll make sure we find all of them babies and bring them home."

Ben nodded, "I know you will Adam, I don’t know to be mad at them or not."

"Let’s not worry about that, let’s just get them home."

Ben nodded again, relieved beyond words that at least one of his sons was safe and in front of him.

Adam smiled at his father, "now you rest some, I’ll go look for a while."

Ben shook his head; "no I can’t rest."

"Pa’, you have to. You can’t make yourself sick. It won’t do anyone any good. Now let me take over the lead for a little bit. I’ll come and get you as soon as I know something."

Ben signed, he was tired but he wanted to keep looking for his two missing sons.

Adam saw the look on his father’s face, "Pa’, just rest. You don’t have to sleep, even though you should. But please get some food in ya’ and relax or try to anyway."

"Adam, I’m too scared to sleep."

Adam nodded, "I know Pa’, really I do. But I need you to rest. You need your strength. I just woke up so I am fine. Let me take over the search. Just for a while Pa’."

Ben frowned and nodded. Adam was right, he needed the rest.

Adam smiled and left to saddle his horse.

Hoss had found a cave for them to rest in, they were all tired. The girls all fell asleep, but Joe and Hoss stayed awake.

"Do you miss home Joe?" Hoss asked.

Joe frowned, he did but he didn’t want to admit that to his brother. "A little Hoss."

"Do you want to go home?’

"No Hoss I want to be with you."

"But Joe, Pa’ is properly scared to death about you."

Joe looked away; he missed his father more then he thought he would. "He’ll be okay Hoss."

Hoss frowned, he’s been thinking about sending Joe back, but he didn’t know how to do it with out hurting Joe.

Joe stood up, "I’m gonna go look around Hoss."

Hoss nodded, "don’t go far."

"I won’t big brother don’t worry."

Hoss nodded and laid down and closed his eyes.

Marianne sat up as Joe started to walk out. "Where ya’ going Joe?" She asked quietly.

He looked at her, "none of your business that’s where."

She stood up, "then you don’t mind if I go with ya’?"

He frowned, "no I don’t want no girl going with me."

"Ah, come on Joe.’

He nodded, "come on then, but don’t be bothering me."

She smiled and the two children left the cave.

They didn’t go far, just went to look around. "Are you scared Joe?" She asked suddenly.

He shook his head, "nah, Hoss will take care of us."

"But, my Pa’ could still be out there and he wants to kill us Joe. We don’t know where we’re gonna live, no food. I’m scared."

Joe looked at her and smiled, "Marianne, it’ll work out. I promise."

She smiled at him, "I’m glad you’re here Joe.’

He nodded; they walked down to a tree then sat at it. Neither one of them spoke just sat and listened to the woods.

Joe sat up alarmed when he heard the rattle of a snake. He frowned and scanned the area for it and soon spotted it at his left foot. There was no way he could get away. He looked at Marianne, "Mari," he whispered, "don’t move suddenly."

"Why?"

"A rattler by my foot. Please don’t move."

Marianne didn’t move, she was a brave girl. She looked at the snake and frowned. "Joe what are ya’ gonna do?’

Joe shook his head slightly, "I don’t know."

"Maybe I should get help. Go get Hoss."

"Maybe that’s a good idea, but move slow. Don’t get up fast or anything."

She nodded and started to get up as slow as she could. Her little movement was enough to startle the snake, and he raised himself to attack, Joe saw him prepare to bit and he yelled for Marianne to run as he tried to get his leg out of the way. He didn’t make it and as Marianne ran for the cave the snake suck his teeth into Joe’s leg. Joe cried out in pain and jerked his leg as he did the snake bit again.

Hoss ran out with Marianne, he saw the snake and quickly threw a rock at it. His aim was perfect and the rock landed on the snake’s head.

Hoss went over to Joe, who was holding his leg, he looked up at his brother and said, "it bit me twice Hoss." He cried.

Hoss frowned as fear gripped him; he picked up Joe and brought him to the cave. He ripped Joe’s pants and saw the two bit wounds. He looked up at Joe, "I’m gonna haveto suck the venom out little Joe. It’s gonna hurt."

Joe nodded, he was crying and he wanted his father.

Tyler came over to Joe and held him. "It’s okay Joe, jus’ squeeze my hand okay."

Joe nodded and took her hand. He was so scared. He looked at Hoss and nodded.

Hoss looked at Marianne, "keep the little ones away."

She nodded.

Hoss took a deep breath and too his knife and sliced the bit wounds, he winced when Joe cried out. Hoss then sucked as much of the venom he could. He wrapped his brother’s wounds and put a blanket over him. He kissed his forehead, "It’ll be okay Joe."

He looked at him with tired eyes.

"Rest little brother okay?’

Joe nodded and closed his eyes.

Hoss looked at Tyler and hugged her, "oh God Ty, what am I gonna do?"

She rubbed his back and kissed him on the cheek. "We’ll watch him and see what happens."

"I don’t know if I got it all. He could get sick."

She nodded.

An hour later, Joe started to get a fever and complain that his leg was hurting him, Hoss didn’t know what to do with him. Joe started to cry out for his father.

Hoss decided that he would carry his brother to safety. He told Tyler that he would take Joe to safety and that she was to stay here until he got back.

He wrapped Joe up in a blanket and left, he knew if he got him down to a road, someone would find him. He also knew the search party was not that far behind them. Joe cried for Pa’ most of the time, his fever was getting higher by the minute, he cried about how much his leg hurt.

Hoss walked for hours and finally was awarded when he saw several men on horseback. He knew they were the search party. He stared at them and soon spotted Adam, he started to cry as he looked at his brother and wondered what he was doing here.

Hoss placed Joe down right in their path, he looked at Joe, "don’t worry little brother, you’ll be safe."

"Pa’, where’s Pa’?"

Hoss frowned, "he’ll be here soon."

"I want Pa’."

Hoss bent down and kissed his brother. "I love you little brother."

"Hoss, where’s Pa’? Is he mad at me?"

Hoss looked up to see the search party getting closer. He looked at Joe. "He’ll be here soon. I promise, he ain’t mad."

Joe nodded and closed his eyes.

Hoss hid behind a boulder, so he could see.

Adam was the first to spot the boy; he frowned and kicked his horse. When he reached Joe he got off of his horse and knelt by him. "Hey Joe, come on buddy." He said as he slapped his brother’s face.

Joe looked at him and started to cry, "Adam? Is that you?"

Adam nodded, "what happened to you boy?"

Joe climbed into his arms, "got bit by a snake Adam."

Adam’s blood ran cold as he heard that. He picked him up and held him tight. He looked out to the direction Hoss was, "its okay Hoss," he said, for he knew Hoss was there watching. "You did good, I got him now."

Hoss smiled.

Adam got on his horse and rode home, holding his brother tight against him. Joe cried for his father most of the time.

Adam tried to comfort his brother, but Joe was running a high fever and was in a great deal of pain.

One of the men rode to town to fetch the Doctor, the rest continued the search and Adam went home.

"PA’! PA’!" Adam shouted as he rode into the yard.

Ben came running out as Adam yelled for him, he paled when he saw the boy in his arm, "OH GOD, MY BABY!" He cried as he ran to Adam.

Adam looked at his panic streakened father, "a snake Pa. He’s calling for ya bit him’"

Ben put his arms out, "give him to me."

Adam did.

Joe looked at his father as he went into his waiting arms, "Pa’, am I home Pa’?"

Ben nodded as he kissed him on the cheek and hugged him tight. "It’s okay son, you’re Pa’s here now."

Joe threw his arms around his father and cried in his shoulder. "Are ya’ mad Pa’?"

Ben shook his head as he carried his youngest inside, "no baby no. Pa loves you. You’re gonna be just fine now."

"I’m sorry Pa’, I shouldn’t have run off."

Ben carried him up to his room, with Adam and Hop Sing close behind. He placed him on the bed, and kissed his forehead. "Honey, don’t worry okay?"

Joe looked at him and nodded.

"What kind of snake bit you?"

"A rattler."

"Where Joe?"

"In the leg Pa’, but Hoss got the venom out."

Ben nodded.

They waited on the Doctor and soon he came. He looked at Joe and gave him medicine for the fever and the pain. He told Ben that Joe should recover within the next couple of days. He would be sore for a while, but no lasting effects.

Ben smiled and thanked the Doctor.

"Now what do you want to do Pa’?" Adam asked.

Ben frowned and shrugged; "I don’t know Adam."

"They caught Peter Pa’, he was killed in a shoot out."

Ben nodded, "well at least they don’t have to worry about him no more."

"If they come in, the girls will be sent off to an orphanage."

Ben nodded, "I know, except Tyler."

Adam looked at him, "why?"

"A letter came shortly after the killing, it was from her mother’s sister. She’s been looking for her for some time now. She wants Tyler to come and live with her. She was willing to fight her father for her. She doesn’t know what happened yet. I wrote her and told her."

"Where does she live?"

Ben smiled and looked at Adam, "Boston."

Adam also smiled, "It’s a beautiful city. I think she’ll like it."

Ben nodded, "but, it’s gonna break Hoss’ heart for her to leave."

Adam nodded, "I know it will, but she’ll come back to him."

"PA! PA!" Joe cried out.

Ben ran up the stairs after his youngest.

Joe was in his bed, tossing and turning. There were tears running down his face.

Ben went over to him and gathered the boy in his arms. "Ssh, son hush now. What’s got you so upset?"

Joe looked at him, "I don’t feel good Pa’, when you wasn’t here, I thought you were mad at me."

Ben shook his head, "no, baby no. I ain’t mad at you. I love you Joe, you’re my boy."

Joe smiled and hugged his father; "I had a dream Adam brought me to you."

Ben smiled, "it wasn’t a dream Joe. Adam is here."

Joe looked at him, "really?"

Adam came over, "hey buddy."

Joe looked at him, as his father got up and Adam sat down. "What are you doing here?"

"Jus’ came home for a while."

"Are you here for good Adam?"

Adam shook his head, "no buddy."

Joe frowned, "wish ya’ was."

Adam took his baby brother in his arms and kissed his head. "I love you Joe."

"I know you do Adam, I love you too."

Adam smiled and laid him back down, "why don’t you tell us where Hoss is?"

Joe frowned.

"Joe, Peter is dead. He can’t hurt them girls any more."

"But, Tyler might be sent away from Hoss. He’d get mad at me if that was to happen."

Adam frowned and looked at his father, who only shook his head. Ben came over, "lay down and go to sleep son."

Joe shook his head, "I ain’t tired Pa’."

"Go to sleep Joe."

Joe nodded and laid down and closed his eyes.

Adam and Ben left the room, so Joe could sleep.

"I don’t think Joe will tell where Hoss is." Adam said.

Ben shook his head, "no, I don’t think he will either."

"What should we do Pa’?"

"All we can do is wait son, he’ll come home."

Hoss and Tyler left the cave right as Adam got home with Joe. They didn’t know where to go or what to do. Jolene was sick and there was nothing they could do to comfort her. She was also beginning to run a fever.

"What should we do Eric?" Tyler asked.

Hoss shrugged, he was thinking of going home.

"I’m scared Eric, Jolene is really sick and Dorothy is starting to get sick. I don’t know if I can keep doing this. I don’t want to give up, but I’m so scared."

Hoss took her in his arms, though they had fun pretending to be adults the fact was that they were still children. "Maybe we should go home, Pa’ will make sure you and your sisters are in good homes and not to far away."

She started to cry she knew he was right. How could she live with out her sisters and with out Eric? She looked at her sisters and told them of their decision. The girls understood why it had to be this way, but they all cried and held each other.

They decided to go home the next morning, they found a hunting cabin and rested for the night.

"Eric, why did this have to happen?" Tyler asked.

Hoss frowned as he held her close. "I don’t know Ty, some things like this jus’ happen I suppose. I sure don’t like it none. Dagburnit Ty, I was planning on building a home with you."

Tyler nodded and snuggled close to him, "so was I Eric. We can still get married can’t we Eric?"

He nodded, "you bet we can and we will. It just won’t be when we thought it would be is all."

"I hope we are making the right decision."

He looked at her, "we are sweat heart, we are. Pa’ will take care of them sisters of yours."

She smiled at him; "I know it Eric."

"I hope Joe is okay."

"He is Eric, your Pa’ will make sure of that."

Hoss nodded, "I wonder what Adam is doing home."

"He properly came to see us get married."

Hoss looked away, he wanted to marry her so bad it hurt. Now he didn’t know when it was going to happen, he knew it would happen one day though and he could barely wait for that day to come.

"Don’t be sad Eric."

He looked at her, "I’m not honey, I could never be sad as long as you love me."

She smiled and kissed him. "I will always love you my love."

"And I will always love you."

"Then can you do me a favor Eric?"

He nodded, "I would do anything in the world for you."

"Eric, I don’t know what will happen in the next few weeks, but I do know I have loved being with you."

He nodded, "same here."

"Do you think you could uh..That we could .." she looked away, then back at him, "that we could make love tonight Eric?"

He stared at her, he’s been wanting to. He can’t seem to get enough of her. He would love to be with her. "Are you sure?"

She nodded, "I want to more then anything else in the world."

"So do I."

"Then why not Eric? We are going to be married one day any way."

"I don’t want to shame you."

"How could you? You are the person I want to be with forever. I love you."

"Oh darling and I love you too."

They started to kiss and soon the two of them made love. Afterwards they laid in each other’s arms for a long time. They soon fell asleep.

They woke up the next morning and decided to make love again. Then they got dressed and got the children ready to head home.

"This will always be remembered as the best night of my life." Tyler told him.

He grinned and blushed a little. "Mine too, mine too."

They left and began the walk home.

They arrived at the ranch, right before dinner. They stared at the house for a long minute, "a part of me is sad." Hoss said.

"Me too, hon." Tyler said.

"Are we gonna be okay Tyler?" Rachel asked.

"Oh yeah babe, don’t you worry none."

Dorothy pulled at Hoss’ hand, "will we all be okay Hoss?"

He kissed her cheek, "we’ll be fine."

"Promise?"

"Yes I promise."

Hoss looked over at Tyler, "are you ready?"

She nodded, "as ready as I can be."

"Well then let’s go."

As they got closer to the door, it opened and Adam walked out. He spotted his brother and grinned. ""HOSS!" He cried out in joy, then ran off the porch and grabbed his brother in a bear hug.

Hoss laughed and gave his brother a bear hug.

Adam stepped back, and looked at him, "look at you. No longer a boy huh?"

"No Adam. What are you doing here?"

"Just came to see ya’."

"Good, now you know Tyler don’t ya’?"

Adam smiled, "well I remember a kid you useto hang out with. This is a young lady."

Tyler smiled, "you look good Adam."

He grinned, "so you have stolen my brother’s heart huh?"

She nodded.

Adam hugged her and gave her a kiss on the cheek.

They went inside, Ben was just coming out of Joe’s room when they came in. He grinned and ran down the steps to hug his son and future daughter in law.

Three days later, The Cartwrights and the remaining members of the Lacquer family stood and waited on the stage to come. Ben had found Loretta’s parents and they agreed to take the younger girls.

Tyler’s Aunt wrote stating that she wanted Tyler, Ben wrote to her telling her that he would send her to Boston with Adam.

Marianne hugged Tyler tight as she cried, "I don’t want you to leave us Tyler."

Tyler rubbed her back as she cried, "Oh honey, I don’t want to leave you either."

"Then don’t!" Dorothy cried.

"Stay with us!" Rachel ordered.

Ben stepped forward, "it’ll be okay girls." He said.

Hoss had his arm around Tyler and was holding Jolene in the other arm.

Soon the stage came and the girls’ grandparents stepped off. They were in their fifties, and a kind looking couple. The woman broke into a grin at the sight of the children. She quickly gathered them in her arms.

The next morning, they loaded the four girls up and got ready to go.

"Tyler," Loretta’s mother said as she went over to her. "I know you had it rough sweetie, and I know you’re scared but it’ll work out for you I know it will."

Tyler nodded.

"Thank you for doing what you did. I love you for that. I will take care of them."

Tyler hugged her.

They left so Tyler could say goodbye.

Tyler took a deep breath and picked up Jolene, she hugged her and kissed her on the cheek. "You be good honey." She cried.

"No Tyty no stay with you Tyty."

Tyler frowned and took a deep breath, she hugged her again, "I love you, now be good."

She nodded.

Tyler gave her to her Grandmother.

She then turned to Dorothy and took her in her arms, "I wish ya’ were coming with us Tyler. I’ll miss you so much. I love you."

Tyler kissed her, "I love you too squirt. Now be good okay. I’ll see ya’ again"

"I know."

Tyler then looked at Rachel, who just fell into her arms, "I love you Rach."

"I know, I love you too."

Tyler looked at Marianne, "come her sis."

Marianne obeyed and went over to her sister. She was sobbing as she wrapped her arms around Tyler. "Oh sis, I don’t know what to do with out you."

Tyler started to cry a little, she was fighting to hold it in. "You’ll be fine little sister, I promise. Everything will be great. You need to look out for the little ones now. You’re the big sister now."

"I’m gonna miss you something fierce Tyler."

"I know honey, and I will miss you. I love you so much."

"I love you too."

Tyler kissed her, then released her.

They loaded into the Stage and waved at their sister.

Tyler watched it pull out, as it got further away she started to cry harder. She fell into Hoss’ arms and he just held her as she cried for all she has lost.

Ben moved Adam and Joe away.

Adam shook his head, "poor kid."

Ben frowned.

Hoss rubbed her back, "I know honey, I know let it out."

She clung to him like she was drowning.

He just held her.

They took her home, where she stayed until Adam went back to Boston. They took them to the Stage.

"Adam, I wish you wouldn’t leave." Joe cried, as he hugged his brother.

Adam picked him up and hugged him tight, "Oh buddy, I love you, but I gotta do this. It’ll be fine I promise."

"But I don’t want you to go."

"I know Joe, but please understand I haveto."

Joe hugged him tight and cried in his shoulder, "I love you."

"I love you too buddy," Adam said as he kissed him on the cheek. "You be good, don’t drive Pa’ too crazy okay?"

Joe nodded, still hiding his face in his brother’s shoulder.

Adam placed him on the ground and kissed him again on the cheek.

Joe went over to Tyler as Hoss went over to Adam.

Adam hugged his brother, "I am so proud of you little brother."

Hoss smiled, "me too Adam, you keep up the good work okay?’

"You know I will. I love you."

"I know and I love you too. I will take car of Tyler and make sure she gets there okay."

"I know you will Adam.’

"Try not to worry Hoss.’

Hoss nodded.

Joe looked at Tyler and hugged her, "Ill miss you Tyler no one looks out for me except my family like you do."

Tyler hugged him; "I’ll miss you to kid. I was thinking maybe you could marry Marianne and I could marry Hoss and we could have a double wedding."

Joe made a face and shook his head. "Don’t worry none, Adam will look out for you."

"I know he will, you take care of Hoss until I come back okay?"

Joe nodded, "will you come back?"

She smiled, "you know I will. I love you Little Joe."

He smiled and turned red; "I love you to." He whispered, then ran off.

Tyler looked at Ben, "thank you so much for all you have done."

He smiled and held his arms out, she fell into them. He hugged her and kissed the top. "We’ll miss you a lot."

"I’ll miss you too. Take car of my Hoss okay?"

"I will and Adam will take care of you. You’ll like Boston and your Aunt will love you."

She smiled and walked over to Hoss, he took her hand and led her away.

"Oh Eric, I love you. I’m gonna miss you so much."

"Tyler, life will not be the same with out you."

"I’m scared Eric. What if she don’t like me?"

"Oh God honey, not only is she going to like you, but she will love you."

"How do you know?"

"She’s spent all of this time trying to find you. She has reached out already now you must reach back."

"But I’ll miss you so much, so damn much."

Hoss nodded as a tear fell down his face, "just remember it won’t be forever."

"I know, I love you."

"Not as much as I love you, dagburnit I love you so much it hurts."

She smiled and hugged him.

""Adam will look out for you, you just stay with him until you get to Boston. Write me."

"I will," she cried in his shoulder. "Every day. But you better write me too."

"I will," He kissed her as the stage prepared to leave.

"Hoss we gotta go," Adam called quietly.

Hoss looked over at him and nodded. He looked at Tyler, "I Love you.’

"I love you."

"When you get lonely, think of that night Tyler."

She smiled, "okay, I will."

Adam walked over to Ben, "you take care of them two boys okay Pa’."

"Son don’t you worry about me, you just finish your schooling and get back here. It ain’t the same without you."

Adam nodded, "I love you Pa’."

"I know son, and I love you. I am very proud of you."

Adam grinned, "I know Pa’."

Adam looked over at Hoss as he kissed Tyler again, "You gotta go. I love you. Don’t forget that." Hoss said.

"Never my love and I love you."

They kissed again, the Adam helped her into the stage and the got in after her.

Hoss stood there and watched it until it was out of sight. He knew as he watched it disappear out of sight that he would never love another woman like her again. He knew he would see her again and that they would get married.

"Come on son, let’s go home." Ben said.

Hoss nodded as he picked up Joe and plopped him down on hid pony and then got on his own horse.

"Ah don’t worry Hoss." Joe said, "I’ll never leave you."

Hoss grinned at him, "I know and I’m happy about that, short shacks,"

Five weeks later, Tyler’s first letter came. Hoss ripped it open;

My Dearest Eric,

I arrived in Boston with no problem; your brother was a great comfort to me during the trip. We saw so much, that I will tell you about in future letters. This letter is just to let you know that I am here and you were right my Aunt was real happy to see me. She has a real big house, as big as your Pa’s house. I have my own room and it is big. Adam stops by often and he has dinner with us. She is sending me to a finishing school, so I can get more learning. I do like it here, but I miss you so much and my sisters. I know I will enjoy my time here, but I wait every moment to see you again. You are the most important person in my life. Please don’t ever forget that. I know it hurts to be away from each other, but we will be together before you realize it.

ALL OF MY LOVE
YOU’RE TYLAR.

Hoss finished reading the letter, and smiled. He folded it up and put it in his pocket. He knew it would all be okay now.

Joe came in and convinced Hoss to play checkers with him.

Hoss gladly played along with his brother, even though his thoughts went of Tyler, who he knew, was his Perfect Match.

THE END!

THANK YOU FOR READING, HOPE YOU ENYOYED IT!