Chapter Text
The clock ticked, and the fire popped, and the world held its breath. The heavy silence shivered, equal measures acceptance and anticipation. Adam laid his hat and gun on the credenza by the door, taking care not to disturb it.
Not yet.
The living room was empty—its occupants must have been finally sent to bed. It had been a long day, a long evening, and it would be a long night. Someone in the house should get some sleep.
He prowled to the kitchen entrance, restless as he had been since morning. He glanced toward the open door at his right, but before he could move toward it a soft, shaky breath caught him. A few more steps brought him into the kitchen proper.
The air was flour-dusted and warm and tinged with the first scent of baking almond cookies. His brother’s wife sat at the island, head resting in hands still white from her baking. Another faint sob, and he crossed to her, taking her into his arms. Lina rested against him for a long moment. The night pressed on, relentless.
“Kids in bed?”
He felt her nod. “Except for Eric—he was so distraught I didn’t have the heart to make him leave.”
“He still in there?”
“Si. He’s asleep in the chair, but Jamie said to just leave him. He took the corner on the floor instead, bless him. He can still see the bed from there, he’ll let us know if there’s any change.”
“Doc still pretty sure?”
“He says there is no doubt.” She sighed and pulled away. “I sent him to the guest room an hour ago—there is nothing to be done now but wait.” Lina’s eyes drifted to the night splashed against the kitchen glass. “I wish Joe would hurry.”
“You know they’re coming as fast as they can. Should be here by morning.”
“I hope it will be soon enough. If he can hold out just a few more hours…”
Adam laughed softly. “He won’t go without seeing Joe.”
A long slow breath, and the hint of a smile. “Perhaps you’re right.”
“I know I’m right. Joe’s had that man wrapped around his little finger since the moment they laid eyes on each other.”
She nodded, gaze distant. His own memories swirled, thick and sweet as honey.
“At least with Pa we knew it was comin’. This…” Adam shook his head. “Can’t plan for something like this.”
She snorted a watery giggle. “I’m sure he chose a day Joe was out of town just to be contrary. You know how he is.”
Adam joined in the quiet laughter, leaning back against the counter and shaking his head. “I do indeed.”
The silence overtook their quiet reminiscing, and the cookies baked, and the Ponderosa kept watch. It was an honor to do so, for the man who had been cook and caretaker and friend and counselor and second father and so much more. Under a quiet sky the planet turned, and horses ate, and men slept, and death waited for morning.