LHOTP - The Continuing Story (You decide what happens)

New Pioneer Number of posts : 119 Location : Germany

This is the story from the old forum - so far...

Carol wrote:: This is an attempt to try and have an Open Storytelling.
Rules: One person writes a whole paragraph, at the end he/she writes (Continue)

And the next poster continues the story... so you can make it sad, funny, scary... you decide what happens. I want to see how this turns out... or if it works at all... :)

Okay, so I'll start:

(This story take place in the 6th Season, so remember the characters and their ages)

The summer had gone by so quick and now school had started all over again. Laura laid on her bed at night going over the days events. So many new changes she thought. Nelly was out of school now, a new teacher had come to Walnut Grove and most important, Almanzo had come to Walnut Grove. She had met him barely today and she couldn’t stop thinking about him. She began to laugh out loud when she remembered that she had called him “Manly”. Albert who was also awake sat up and asked her…

(Continue)

And Now It's Your Turn: :wink:

alaker wrote:: "what's so funny?".
"Oh nothing", Laura sighed.
"Yeah, right!, It's the new fella in town, isn't it? Albert asked back.
"What fella?"
At this point Albert was getting a little irritated. "Do you really expect me to believe you hadn't notice this new fella in town? The one you met? The one you were making googly eyes at?"
"Was not!"
"Was too!"
At this point Pa yells up, "It's about time for some quiet Laura and Albert. Now get some sleep"
"Yes Pa," they said in unision.
As they lay their heads back down on their pillows, Laura quietly mumbled, "ok, maybe a little".
"Told you so", Albert said with a smirk. Laura quickly turned to her side as to hint this conversation was over.

Amy wrote:: The next morning Laura could hardly wait to get to school. She knew she needed to hurry if she wanted to see Almanzo when he dropped off Eliza Jane to school. She decided not to braid her hair today, just to see if wearing her hair down would make her look older, not to mention the time it saved her!
Albert and Carrie were not nearly finished with their breakfast when Laura exclaimed, "Come on you two! We're gonna be late!!"
"What's the hurry?", asked Albert, who already sensed what she was up to. "Afraid you miss the chance to make some googly eyes?"
Laura just glared at him and grabbed her books. "You two will just have to walk alone today. I want to get to school early to help Miss Wilder get things ready for class. She's new here, and she'd probably appreciate some help!"
"Laura, you haven't even braided your hair yet!", said Ma.
"Oh, that's all right, Ma. I've decided to try wearing it down today."
"Mmmhmm", said Ma, remembering the last time Laura wore her hair down to school. A certain young lad named Jimmy Hill. Immediately, Ma knew there must be a new interest for Laura. Little did she know, this was no schoolboy.

(Just a sidenote...we do this on my Dr. Quinn board too. We call it "Pass it along fanfic). This is fun! :wink:

New Pioneer Number of posts : 119 Location : Germany

Rhonda wrote:: As Laura approached the school house; walking as mature as she could with her hair flowing in the breeze, she noticed Nellie Oleson standing next to Almanzo's wagon. As Nellie stood there talking to him, she twisted her curls in her little flirtatious way. Laura saw red as she watched this display, and vowed that Nellie would not get her Almanzo. As she passed by the wagon, Nellie gave her that little snippy look that she could give so well. Laura huffed past them, and just before she got to the steps of the school, Almanzo said, "Mornin' Laura!" Laura turned to say hi, just as she saw Nellie 'humph' off in a storm. Laura shyly dropped her head, grinned and said hello, then ran into the school before Almanzo could say anything else to her.............

CONTINUE

Carol wrote:: The class was reading and it was almost time for lunch. Laura had her eyes on her book and could hear what was being read out loud but she wasn’t really listening. She felt anxious because in just a few minutes Ms. Wilder would dismiss the class for lunch and she would get to see Almanzo. All of a sudden she felt embarrassed. If Ms. Wilder only knew that all Laura could think about was her brother! Why was she feeling this way? She had never felt this way about a boy before. Sure, she felt she liked some guys, like Jason, Johnny or Jimmy Hill but this feeling was different. Could this be the real thing? Laura thought.

“Okay class! We will finish the chapter after lunch, you are dismissed”, said Ms. Wilder. The sound of Ms. Wilder’s voice startled Laura and she came back to reality.
“Laura! Are you playing ball today?” asked Andy. “How is she going to play ball with all that hair in the way?” said Albert as he put his book away and stood up to go to lunch. “Besides, my dear sister is going to play a different kind of game”, said Albert as she winked at Laura. “Mind your own business”, said Laura as she felt her face turn red. It was bad enough that she kept getting caught daydreaming and here was Albert teasing her all the time!

Laura stood at the steps of the school and looked for Almanzo in the distance. When she saw him, she smiled and hesitated in going to him for a minute. She had made him a special batch of cookies and couldn’t wait to give it to him. “Well…. Here we go”, she said to herself as she walked towards him.
“Hi Laura!” said Almanzo when he saw her coming. “Hi!... um… how… how are you?” Laura hated the way that sounded. She felt nervous. “Oh just fine, glad it’s lunch, I’m starving!” Almanzo said as he looked for someone in the distance.
“Well, that’s good because I have something for you” Laura handed Almanzo the cookies and smiled at him. “I made them, thought you might enjoy them”.
“Wow! Thank you!” Almanzo said as he bit into one of them. “Delicious!”. Just then a beautiful older girl came and greeted Almanzo. “Sorry, I’m late Almanzo, you ready to go?” said the girl.
“Yeah, I thought you would never get here. Laura…” said Almanzo turning to her. “Thank you so much for the cookies. I’ll see ya!”
Laura couldn’t believe her eyes. “Yeah…. See ya” she said softly as she watched them walk away. Nelly had been on her way somewhere and had see what had happened and made a face at Laura as if sarcastically saying "Gee.. too bad". Laura glared back at her. All of a sudden she felt like an idiot for baking those cookies! She walked back to the school, humiliated and mad at herself.

(Sorry, I know it's more than one paragraph, I got carried away, lol)

Kathy wrote:: And all that came back to Laura at that moment was a memory long ago of Nellie pretending to be paralyzed when she wasn't and she felt herself wanting to say to Nellie once again in reply to Harriet's comment "Laura Ingalls where on earth are you keeping that filthy animal" and Laura's reply of "Nellie, your mother is calling you" is ringing in her ears now wishing she had a good reason to say those words to Nellie in retaliation for the mean looks Nellie just gave her because of Almonzo's interest in another girl. Why oh why does he see me as a child......

New Pioneer Number of posts : 119 Location : Germany

Amy wrote:: This is the continuation of Kathy's paragraph:

The next day, Nellie watched as Laura approached the school. She put her hands on her hips and placed herself in the middle of the road, right outside the mercantile. Laura felt the hairs on the back of her neck stand on end, as she prepared herself to confront her arch enemy. "I see you baked 'MANLY' some cookies yesterday....just what are you trying to do, Laura Ingalls?", said Nellie, her tone seething. "Why, whatever do you mean, Nellie?", Laura asked innocently, wondering to herself how in the world did Nellie find out she mistakenly called Almanzo 'Manly' instead of 'Manny'?

Lori wrote:: "You're such a child, Laura. Do you think Almanzo would be interested in a little girl like you?"

"He'd never notice a toad face like you, Nellie," replied Laura. She then pounces on Nellie and they are rolling around in the road.

The children playing in the school yard run over and surround them chanting "Fight! Fight! Fight!"

lauraingalls1991 wrote:: "Hey Laura are you all right? You have a funny look on your face."
" Yeah," replied Laura. " I'm just thinking about that Almanzo Wilder. I can't seem to get him off my mind." Laura pulled herself by her elbows and peeked out the window. The moon shined bright, but to her the moon looked like Almanzo Wilder.
" Well good night Albert. We better get some sleep or we'll fall asleep in our breakfast tomorrow."
" Yeah, well good night Laura," and Albert rolled over to his side and fell asleep.
" Good night Almanzo Wilder, where ever you are." Laura closed her eyes and dreamt of the man of her dreams.

Amy wrote:: Months passed, and Laura felt that her 'love-life' was at a stand-still. Try as she might, she just couldn't get Almanzo Wilder to notice her as anything but his sweet young 'friend'. It was obvious that the two men she loved most in the world thought of her as just a 'little girl', as her pa was not too keen on the idea of his 'half-pint' taking the teacher's examination that she was so determined to pass. Not only did Laura feel destined to become a teacher, she felt that maybe this would be her answer. Perhaps both her pa and her beloved would finally see her as the woman she knew she was becoming.

bethandmanly wrote:: Laura needed to study hard if she was going to pass the teacher's exam. She had begged Nellie to let her borrow the final year's books she would need. Getting down on her knees and begging to Nellie was humiliating, but Laura was willing to do it, if it meant she could finally show Pa and Almanzo that she was a woman. Every night after she finished studying, she would take out a piece of paper and a pencil and practiced writing "Laura Ingalls Wilder" on it.

to be continued....

New Pioneer Number of posts : 119 Location : Germany

Sleepyeye wrote:: Little did Laura know, that although she had sacrificed her pride to apologize to Nellie, that Nellie had an alternative in mind. "So...she wants those books...perhaps now is my chance to get even for that "favor" she did for me"....Nellie pipes "Oh Laura....I'll tell you a bit of a secret about the test....there won't be any History questions...so don't waste your time studying History" Laura answered, "Gosh Nellie....Thanks!!"...then off she ran to study, so much wanting to pass the test...more so to be the woman to marry Almanzo than to become a teacher. But Pa wasn't ready for her to grow up so fast...after all she was still his little 'half pint' .....Did Nellie's plan work? Was Laura able to pass her test?....Would Pa lose his little "half pint" to Almanzo so soon...or would things take a step back in time and slow down a bit in Walnut Grove? [type]

LHDaisy wrote:: 'Are you sure you want to take this test Laura' ma asked.
'Yes ma, I want to be a teacher as fast as I can.'
At that moment Charles walked in the Little House. He overheard what Laura said to Caroline and he got kind of upset. The last couple of days Laura didn't seem to be his little halfpint anymore. Although he was used to her daydreaming once in a while, this was something different. He just couldn't understand why Laura wanted to do everything so quickly lately. Taking her schoolexam, then her teaching exam. Caroline even told him that Laura begged Nellie for the study books. He just couldn't believe that this was his little girl. Tomorrow he would sit her down for a good conversation he thought.

'Hi Caroline and HALFPINT!' (He said her nickname, which he gave her when she was little, some louder on purpose) 'I sure could use a cup of coffee right now.'

bethandmanly wrote:: Later that night, Caroline and Charles sat up in bed eating popcorn. Caroline had the family Bible out and Charles was reading the newspaper.

"Caroline, is Laura feeling okay?"

"Why do you ask?"

Charles put down his newspaper. "Well, she's been acting different lately...wearing her hair down, walking to school early, and I think I smelled your perfume on her the other day."

Caroline laughed. "She's just growing up."

Charles looked over at her with concern. "But she's still so young."

"Charles she's changing." Caroline smiled at him. "Maybe you haven't noticed, but she's struggling between being a kid and being a young woman. I don't think she always knows how to act, but I'm sure she wants to be seen as a woman."

"When did this happen?"

Caroline smirked. "As soon as Almanzo Wilder came to town."

to be continued...

Rhonda wrote:: "I'm not sure about that Wilder boy, he seems a little old for my Half-Pint", Charles said as he turned the page in the paper roughly.

"It may appear that way, but only time will tell how things will turn out. Would you like some popcorn?", Caroline offers the bowl and turns a page in the Bible.

"No, I think I am through with the paper, I've got a big day ahead of me tomorrow, g.nite Caroline." Charles gives her a peck on the cheek, throws the paper in the floor,rolls over, pulls the covers over his head, and lets out a big sigh....

Caroline smiles to herself, knowing that their lives are about to get a bit more interesting than they already are. She sets the popcorn bowl down, lays the Bible on the table beside her, pats Charles gently on his back, turns the light out and snuggles under the covers. As the light dims out, Charles is snoring and Caroline lets out a little giggle.

New Pioneer Number of posts : 119 Location : Germany

Amy wrote:: The next morning, as Pa was hitching the team outside the homestead, he looked up and saw Laura running frantically out the front door, books in hand, leaving the door wide open behind her. "Hey, slow down there, Half-Pint, did you forget something?" "Oh, sorry Pa!", Laura replied as she ran back to pull the door shut. "I just have to make a quick stop somewhere before I go to school." Pa looked at her with a frown, "Seems like you've been running off early a lot lately...ya know ya can talk to me if something's troublin' ya." Laura smiled and said reassuredly, "Thanks Pa. I know, but everything's just fine! I just have lots to get done in the day! See ya after school, Pa!" He watched her worriedly as she ran down the road leading away from home, wondering what in the world she was up to?

LHDaisy wrote:: As Laura ran of, Albert and Carrie were coming out the Little House. "Bye Pa!" yelled Albert. "Albert, wait a minute". Albert walked up to his pa. "What's the matter??". Laura just run of, saying see had to make a quick stop somewhere before she goes to school. Do you know where she is going?". Albert replied: "I don't know pa, before I could grab my slate and books she already left". "Well, I would appreaciate it if you would keep an eye out on your sister today" said Charles. "Sure pa" said Albert. "Allright, now go on to school or you'll be late". "Oke, bye pa". "By son". Albert runned back to Carrie and Charles watched them walking away down the road before he got back to work.

bethandmanly wrote:: When Albert and Carrie crossed the bridge leading into town he spied Laura over at the Feed and Seed talking to Almanzo.

"So that's why she needed to leave early," he said out loud shaking his head.

"What?" asked Carrie.

"Oh never mind Carrie. You go to school, I'll be along."

"But Albert," she whined. "Can't I come too?"

"No. Now go to school."

"Oh all right," said Carrie her head hung low.

Albert walked towards the Feed and Seed to check on what Laura was up to.

to be continued...

Carol wrote:: Laura was really into the conversation she was having with Almanzo that she didn't notice Albert at first.

"Hi Almanzo" Albert said.

"Hi there!" Almanzo started loading some sacks into the wagon.

"Laura, you ran out of the house so fast, you forgot your lunch. Here. Is this where you have been all this time?" Albert said as he saw Laura's face turn red.

"I ... uh... I gotta go. Bye Almanzo" Laura walked away as quickly as she could. How could Albert be so insensitive!

"See ya Laura!" she heard Almanzo say.

Albert joined Laura as they reached the school steps.

"I'm sorry.... It's just that Pa...." Albert wasn't sure if he should tell Laura that their Pa had told him to keep an eye on Laura.

"Just that Pa what?...." Laura asked.

"He...... he just wanted me to make sure that I gave you your lunch", said Albert relieved that he found something to say.

"Well, you sure picked a PERFECT time to do it Albert Ingalls!" With that, Laura went inside the school, sat at her desk and opened up her book to read.

To be continued.... :mrgreen:

New Pioneer Number of posts : 119 Location : Germany

Amy wrote:: (LOL...well, forgive me if I don't elaborate on Laura's 'illness' and Dr. Baker's leeches. ;) )

After school, Almanzo waved to Laura as she headed home with Albert and Carrie. She blushed as she glanced at Albert, knowing well that he was on to her 'crush'. She would have liked to have gone over to talk to Manly again, but she knew Albert would only harrass her about it back at home. She simply waved to him and said, "See ya, Manly!" He called out, "Have a good day, Beth!" and flashed that adorable grin that she loved. She had this overwhelming need to be alone right then, without Albert, so she told him to go on home. She wanted to visit her pond for awhile, so she could think. Along the way, she came to the 'Sweethearts' Tree', where lovers had carved their initials. Her heart swelled as she got an idea....

(I just HAD to write this, being the first day of the month of Valentines! ;) )

bethandmanly wrote:: At the Ingalls farm a nosy and impatient Charles watched Albert walk down the road to the house.

"Hey Albert," he called from the barn. "Can you come in here son?"

Albert walked over to Charles. "Yeah Pa."

"Did you see Laura today?"

"Yeah I saw her. She was busy talking to Almanzo." Albert rolled his eyes.

"Almanzo again." Charles looked up at the sky. "Thanks Albert."

"Sure Pa." Albert left to bring his school books in the house so he could start his chores.

Charles stood there in the barn for a few mintues trying to devise a plan to get Laura's mind off Almanzo.

to be continued....

Amy wrote:: Meanwhile, Laura busied herself at the Sweetheart's Tree, carving L.I. + A.W., joining hers and Almanzo's initials with countless others on the tree. She was quite certain that most of the others on the tree were those of lovers, but she was positive in her heart that one day she and Almanzo would be. She believed with all of her being that someday she would be Laura Ingalls Wilder. Time seemed to stand still as she sat at her pond and contemplated the ways she could make her dream become true, but the dusk seemed to jerk her back into reality. With a start, she jumped up and ran for home, stopping momentarily to give a quick kiss to the initials of her beloved Almanzo on the way....

bethandmanly wrote:: The next morning Laura was blabbering on and on about Almanzo. Charles told her how sick he was of hearing about him and then walked out the door.

Laura followed him and begged to go see Almanzo train his new colt, Barnum. Her Pa insisted all her chores had to be done before she could go watch Almanzo and Barnum. When an unahppy Laura started to argue, Charles put and end to the discussion. A disappointed Laura walked back into the house.

'I have to find a way to get her mind off Almanzo,' he thought.

When he looked up, he saw a young blond-haired boy walking into the yard. The boy introduced himself as Perley Day Wilder. Charles smiled wide. What a perfect way to get Half-pint off her Almanzo kick.

to be continued....

Amy wrote:: "What can I do for ya, son?," Charles asked Perley Day. "Well, Manzo told me how Laura's been helpin' him with training his horse for the race, and he wanted me to come out here and see if she'd be available today." Charles thought a moment. "Hmm, I just told Laura she'd have to do her chores before she does anything, so...." Laura, who had already come back out of the house to go clean out the stalls in the barn, had been standing in the doorway listening. "Please Pa!! I promise I'll do my chores just as soon as I get through with Barnum. I won't stay long, really!" Charles asked if she'd met Perley Day already, and she said, "Oh yes, we met yesterday. Hi Perley Day!" As Perley Day acknowledged her, Charles could see the twinkle in the young man's eye as he looked at Laura. It hit Charles all of a sudden how close in age these two were, and Perley Day seemed nice enough. This could actually work!! "All right, but you be back here by two o'clock. That should be enough time to get your chores done." Laura beamed, thrilled to have caught a lucky break at seeing Almanzo again! "Oh, thank you Pa!" she exclaimed as she ran up to give him a big hug. "You're the best!" As Charles watched the two walk happily down the lane, he couldn't help but smile at himself for his 'ingenious' idea!

flatbroke4ever wrote:: When Laura arrived at Almanzo's, he was upset because his horse had thrown a shoe, and asks Perley Day and Laura to go to the blacksmith and see if he can make them a new one. Laura is upset to have to leave Almanzo, but knows that Almanzo is leery of Perly Day, and loves his horse, so she goes.

New Pioneer Number of posts : 119 Location : Germany

LHDaisy wrote:: While Perley Day and Laura were walking towards town they saw Nellie Oleson walking towards them with a basket of cookes. "Hi Laura, who is your new friend?" Nellie asked. Laura awnserd her short: "This is Perley Day, Almanzo's younger brother." Nellie: "Oh, I see. Well nice to meet you Perley Day". "Nice to meet you too miss...". "Oleson" Nellie said. "Well, I have to go now, I want to give Almanzo these cookies while they are still warm" said Nellie. "I'm glad you decided to take someone more closer to your own age Laura" Nellie said wit sarcasm. Nellie walked away and Laura looked angry at her while she was leaving. Why did she say that to her, did she knew she was in love with Almanzo. And is that why she goes to Almanzo to give him cookies she thought. Laura then suddenly heard Perley Day say: "Kind of strange girl". "I know" Laura replied. "Well, let's go to the smith". Perley Day and Laura continued their trip to town, although Laura would have loved to turn around to catch up with Nellie and give her a big punch, but she knew that wouldn't fix anything.

Amy wrote:: Laura got this uneasy feeling that Perley Day had an interest in her. She was unaware of the fact that Perley Day sensed her 'crush' on his older brother, and never one to back down from a competition, thought he'd show her that he was the better brother. On their way back from the blacksmith, he took advantage of their time alone in the buggy, and asked Laura what her lifelong aspirations were. Laura, surprised but pleased by his interest in her, answered, "I want to be a teacher more than anything, but I also want to marry one day and have children." Perley Day, guessing what she would respond and ready with a quick boost to her ego, "I'll bet you'll be the finest teacher in these parts, Ms. Ingalls. And anyone can see that you'll make just as fine a wife and mother." Laura blushed at his forwardness. She thought to herself, 'If only Manly could see what his brother sees in me. If only I could make him see that I'm not a little girl!'

bethandmanly wrote:: When Laura and Perley Day returned to the Wilder farm Almanzo was pacing the ground outside the barn. "Well it's about time you two got back!" he yelled.

"Now brother, I know ya want Barnum here in tip top shape for the race, but Laura is one entertainin young lady."

Laura blushed wondering what Perley Day was up to. Almanzo glanced over at her and she quickly looked away.

"Well Beth is my favorite girl," he said with a smile. "So you better treat her nice."

Laura got angry over Almanzo calling her a girl, once again. "Perley Day has been a perfect gentlemen," she stated. "In fact, I was thinkin of askin him over for supper tonight."

Perley Day smirked. 'That Laura sure is a fiesty one,' he thought. "I would love to," he said to her. He looked over at his older brother. "Ya don't mind do ya Manzo? I'm sure ya won't be missin my company."

Looking from Laura to Perley Day, Almanzo answered, "No, I don't mind at all."

Laura's face turned sullen. She wished Almanzo hadn't responded that way. Maybe Perley Day was the only Wilder brother she would ever have.

to be continued...

Amy wrote:: On the way to supper, Perley Day thought it was a perfect opportunity to take Barnum out for a better ' test drive' before the big race, to see what he was capable of. Laura told Perley Day to slow down, because she knew that Almanzo had been trying to nurse his leg back to health from his past injury, and Barnum was nowhere near capable of trotting, no galloping, at the pace Perley Day was taking him. Laura kept yelling at Perley Day to slow down, but he was on a mission, and just ignored her. As they came near a bend in the road, Perley Day barely slowed Barnum, and Laura had this knot in the pit of her stomach that something terrible was about to happen. "STOP, Perley Day, STOP!!!", she screamed, just as the buggy tipped over, not able to withstand the speed and force of the turn. Perley Day had been thrown from the buggy, barely a scratch on him, but when he turned toward the scene of the accident, there lay Laura, legs pinned under the carriage, crying and whispering, "Almanzo".

New Pioneer Number of posts : 119 Location : Germany

bethandmanly wrote:: Perley Day tried several times to lift the buggy off her, but he wasn't strong enough. He was afraid having Barnum drag it off her might cause further injury. Knowing Almanzo would have his head for being so reckless, Perley Day tried to figure a way out of his predicament.

In excruciating pain Laura pleaded with him to go get help. "Perley Day please go back and get Almanzo!"

"I can't do that Laura. He'd wallop me."

"Perley Day, my legs are numb. You have to get this buggy off me. Please help me!" She tried in vain to lift the buggy off herself. When he said nothing she pleaded again. "Please Perley Day. I'm scared. Go find help please!"

"All right," he said aggitated. He still couldn't figure out how he was going to save himself from Almanzo's wrath. "I'll be back as soon as I can."

He ran off towards town and Laura screamed after him, "Where are you going?"

He stopped and turned around. "To find Doc Baker."

"That's too far. You have to go back and get Almanzo."

Perley Day shook his head. "I promise, I'll be back right away." He began running again, ignoring Laura's screams.

to be continued...

Savannah wrote:: Laura was exhausted from the pain, and from calling for help. She had no idea how long she had laid there, but she was beginning to worry that Perley Day may have gotten lost trying to find Doc Baker. He didn't know the area very well, and it had been so long since he left to find help!

~~~~~~~

Perley Day sat on a large rock, hating himself. He was too much of a coward to even go find Doc Baker. Perley had always been able to get himself out of a scrape by talking his way out of trouble. And if things looked bad, he ran away. He didn't really want to run away this time. But if he went for help, then Almanzo would eventually find out what had happened, and big brother had a big temper...........But this was important. What if Laura was injured for life? Or worse, died, pinned under that buggy?

"So why can't I get up the gumption to go find help??" he asked himself aloud. "What is wrong with me??"

Then he made a decision.....

Amy wrote:: Almanzo was putting the horses up in the barn for the evening, when Eliza Jane called him in for supper. He couldn't explain it, but something wasn't settling in the pit of his stomach. He had this strange sensation for the past half hour that something just wasn't right. He thought to himself, 'I wonder if those two kids went off and got themselves into some kind of trouble.' He had this feeling like someone was calling for him, someone who needed him desperately. He hopped onto his his horse and rode out of the barn, yelling over his shoulder to his sister, "I'll be back in a bit....I'm just checking to make sure Laura and Perley Day are all right!" He raced down the road leading to the Ingalls farm, his heart beating so fast for some inexplicable reason. What was this feeling???

To Be Continued....

bethandmanly wrote:: Perley Day was tired of running away. He had done it all his life. When things got tough at home he picked up and left. He had traveled from here to there and always told his family how much fun it was. But deep inside he wished he could find a place to call home. He didn't like the person he had become, forced by circumstance to be a schemer and a flatterer just to survive. At first it had been exciting to see how far he could go and how much he could get from people, but now all he wanted was a normal life like everyone else.

"C'mon Perley Day, you can do it!" he said to himself. He would make the right choice for once. Perley Day raced off towards town to find Doc Baker and get help for Laura. He would worry about Almanzo's wrath later.

Meanwhile, Almanzo and his horse stumbled upon the overturned wagon and a crying Laura who was still pinned underneath.

to be continued...

New Pioneer Number of posts : 119 Location : Germany

Amy wrote:: "Oh my God", Almanzo said under his breath as he swung his legs off his horse. He could not believe what he was witnessing. "Laura!!" Laura looked over at him running to her and whispered his name. She could no longer feel her legs, and she was on the verge of becoming unconscious. Almanzo immediately went into action, using all his muscle to lift the buggy off of her, all the while trying to console her with comforting words. "It's gonna be all right Beth, I'm gonna get this off of ya," although he wasn't convinced himself by that point. He was beginning to panic, as it became clear there was no way he was going to be able to budge this without help. He went up by Laura's head and wiped her tears that she was so desperately trying to stop. He pushed her hair out of her eyes and asked where Perley Day was? She told him he went to get the doc, and he cursed his brother under his breath. How could he be so stupid?? Almanzo thought for a moment, concluding the only thing left for him to do. He had to leave her there. "I don't want to leave you alone, Beth, but I don't have a choice. I can't do this by myself. I'm goin' for your pa," he said reluctantly. Laura nodded her head, trying to be brave, "Hurry Manly...I can't take this much longer." He gave her a quick kiss on the forehead and ran back to his horse. At that moment however, he saw the most beautiful sight....Dr. Baker's buggy hurrying around the bend.

LHDaisy wrote:: 'Doc over here!!' Almanzo yelled. Doc baker raced his buggy and stopped next to Almanzo. 'How long is she lying here!' he asked with concern. Almanzo anwserd: 'I don't know, I just found her, I wanted to get her pa'. Doc Baker responded 'There is no time right now, we have to get the buggy of her'. Almanzo nodded quickly. They both grabbed the buggy and lift it with all their powers! Finally the buggy landed on his 4 wheels. Doc Baker immediately got to Laura to check her situation. Laura almost passed out. 'Almanzo, help me to get her in my buggy, she has to go to my office now!'. They both lifted her in the buggy. 'Now go on and get her parents Almanzo, hurry!. 'Right' Almanzo answerd, he runn to his horse, jumped on and rode to the Ingalls place, while Doc Baker hurried to his office!

bethandmanly wrote:: When Doc Baker reached town Perley Day helped him get Laura into his office. Laura tried to protest. She was still angry at Perley Day for leaving her alone for so long. But her head was fuzzy and she drifted in and out of conciousness.

"Laura? Laura?" She heard a voice say in the darkness. She tried to focus her eyes on the blurry form in front of her. "Laura, it's Doc Baker. Can you hear me?"

She smelled a strong odor under her nostrils. It shook her awake. Laura nodded at the doctor who had taken care of her since she was a little girl.

"Laura, I need you to listen to me," he said gently but firmly. "I can't give you any morphine for the pain yet. I have to keep you awake so I can tell how bad you're hurt." She nodded again to tell him she understood.

"Now I'm going to touch your legs all the way down, starting from the top. I need you to tell me where it hurts. If it hurts more in one spot than another you have to tell me. Okay?"

"Yes," she whispered.

Doc Baker pulled up her dress and began his examination. He heard the outside door open and Charles' voice screaming, "Laura! Laura!"

to be continued...

Amy wrote:: Laura tried to sit up upon hearing her father's voice. "Pa", she said, with so much emotion in her voice. She hadn't realized just how much she needed him until that moment. "I'm here, Half Pint," he told her as he rushed to her side. They just looked at each other for a minute, he taking in her appearance, and she taking comfort in his warm brown eyes. "Your ma's at home with Carrie & Grace. Don't worry honey, everything's going to be just fine," he assured her, as he looked questioningly at Doc Baker. The Doc met his eyes but could not meet Charles's half-smile. Charles knew that he needed to examine his daughter more to be sure. He told Laura he'd be right out in the waiting room, and as he left Laura called out to him, "Pa, did Almanzo come with you?" Her question pulled at his heart-strings a little, as he realized that she needed someone else besides 'her pa'. "Yeah, he's right outside", as Laura rested her head back consoled by the fact that Almanzo was still there....

TO BE CONTINUED

bethandmanly wrote:: Charles walked out into the lobby and pulled the curtain closed. He found Almanzo pacing the floor, his hat in his hands, the right one covering the big round top.

"How is she?" he asked with concern.

Charles shook his head. "We don't know yet. Doc is examining her now."

Almanzo nodded. He took to pacing again, thinking about the pain and fear that covered Beth's face when he arrived at the scene. He didn't even know what happened, but he was sure Perley Day had done something stupid. Almanzo heard Laura cry out in pain. He closed his eyes and prayed that she would be all right.

Charles sat down and began to say a prayer of his own. He hated to see one of his children suffer. 'What is taking so long?' he thought.

Almanzo and Charles heard Laura wail again. "That's it. I can't stand here and listen to her," said Almanzo. "I'm going out to talk to Perley Day, see if he can tell me what happened."

"All right," whispered Charles.

Almanzo opened the office door and then turned back to face Charles. "You'll come get me when Doc Baker knows anything."

"Yeah."

to be continued...

New Pioneer Number of posts : 119 Location : Germany

Amy wrote:: Almanzo was relieved to get out of the doc's office. He was distraught at the sound of Laura's cries, and he felt himself becoming enraged. He had every intention of hearing Perley Day's excuse, but deep in his heart, he knew what had happened. His immature brother was up to his old tricks again. He rode back out to his homestead, entered the living room and locked eyes with his sister. "Where is he?", he demanded. Eliza Jane was visibly concerned, not having a clue as to what had happened. "He's upstairs, packing to leave!! Almanzo, what happened?" Almanzo didn't answer her, just bolted up the stairs to the bedroom Perley Day was staying in. There he stood, packing everything up, obvioulsy not quickly enough to escape the wrath of Almanzo. They just eyed each other at first, when Perley Day broke the silence. "Go ahead, big brother. Tell me. Tell me what an irresponsible idiot I am."

TO BE CONTINUED....

bethandmanly wrote:: "I'm sure that will come up, but the first thing I wanna know is what happened to Beth."

Perley Day swallowed hard. He looked down, his hands shaking. After a deep breath he began, "I was tryin to see how fast Barnum was." Almanzo started to say something but decided not to interrupt, maybe he would get to the truth faster if he waited until his brother finished. "Laura begged me to slow down...but I didn't listen," he said shaking his head. "I took the turn too fast and the buggy tipped over."

"Why didn't ya come get me right away? Our house is closer than town."

He couldn't look at Almanzo when he answered, "Because I was too busy tryin to figure how I could get out of tellin ya what happened. I knew ya would wallop me for sure."

"So ya left her there all alone? What in the heck is wrong with you Perley Day? God knows how bad she's hurt!" Almanzo turned to the wall, his anger rising. "This is all my fault," he whispered, shaking his head.

"What are ya takin about?" asked Perley Day.

Almanzo faced him again. He walked closer to him, watching Perley Day squirm. As he spoke, he pointed his finger towards his little brother's face. "I shoulda known ya weren't interested in havin dinner at the Ingalls place. All ya wanted to do was race Barnum. All ya think about is yourself. And now Beth is sittin in Doc Baker's office, screaming in pain and afraid of what is gonna happen to her."

"I know," Perley Day answered, hanging his head in shame. "That's why I'm goin."

"Oh no you're not. You're comin with me to Doc Baker's. I want ya to see what your selfishness has done." Almanzo yanked Perley Day by the arm and led him out to the wagon, leaving a confused Eliza Jane behind.

to be continued...

Amy wrote:: "Go ahead Doc, tell me", a very grim Charles Ingalls asked the Doc as he came into the waiting room. "Relax, Charles. She's gonna be all right. She has a broken leg so she'll need to keep it in a fracture box for the next few weeks. Other than that, she's got some cuts and bruises on both legs, but nothing too serious." Charles breathed a sigh of relief. He and Doc Baker joined Laura in the examination room, and Charles gave her a big smile. Although she was in significant pain, the color was finally returning to her face and she was able to return a smile to her pa. "Thank God you're all right, Half Pint. You have no idea how worried I was," he said, as he held her as best he could, and tried to brush her hair back that was all askew. "I'm Ok, Pa. I was just so scared. I thought nobody was gonna come for me," she whispered, starting to get teary-eyed, just reliving the events of the past couple of hours. "Laura, I want you to tell me everything that happened. How on earth did you end up underneath Almanzo Wilder's buggy?" Laura opened her mouth to speak, but was interrupted by a voice at the door. "Maybe Perley Day here can explain that to you, Mr. Ingalls," Almanzo said gruffly as he shoved his brother into the room....

To Be Continued....

bethandmanly wrote:: A nervous Perley Day walked over to Charles, his hat in his hand. Unable to look at him, Perley Day stared at the floor. "You see Mr. Ingalls, I was..."

At the sound of his voice Laura looked up. "Get him out of here!" she screamed. "I don't want him anywhere near me! Get out Perley Day! Get out!" He ran over to her and tried to explain, but she wanted no more of his lies. "I don't care what you have to say Perley Day. I never want to see you again!"

Almanzo came up alongside his brother and whispered, "Maybe it's better if you go into the other room." Perley Day nodded and walked into the lobby. "Could I have a couple minutes with Laura, Mr. Ingalls?" asked Almanzo.

"I'm not sure..." Charles began to say, but Laura interrupted him. "It's okay Pa."

Charles agreed but said, "I'll be right outside if you need me."

Laura nodded and waited for the men to leave. Almanzo flashed her his crooked smile, the one that always made her heart jump.

"How ya feelin Beth?" He cupped her head in his hand and then ran his fingers down her long reddish-brown hair.

"A lot better than when I first saw you," she smiled. She saw the concern in his eyes and wondered if he could ever care for her in the same way she cared for him.

"I'm sorry about what happened. I shoulda known better than to let Perley Day drive ya home."

"It's not your fault Manly. Perley Day has his own mind about things. It's too bad, I was kind of starting to like him."

"Not more than me, I hope," joked Almanzo. "You're still my favorite girl, aren't ya?" He smiled innocently at Laura, not realizing how much she wanted to be his favorite girl in other ways.

"Always," she replied in a serious tone. She wished once again that she could make Almanzo see her as something more than a young friend.

To be continued...

New Pioneer Number of posts : 119 Location : Germany

Amy wrote:: Doc Baker sent Laura home with a pair of crutches, but warned Charles that he wanted her completely off her feet for at least a week. "I know it won't be easy, Laura, but if you want that leg to heal up proper, ya best do what I tell ya," Doc said sternly, although not without adding a smile and a wink. He had always had a special place in his heart for this little girl. Where have the years gone, he wondered to himself upon studying her more closely. She was growing up right before his very eyes. "That's one strong young lady you have there, Charles," he commented, receiving a surprised grin from Laura, and eyebrows raised from both Charles and Almanzo. Had he just called her a young lady? "Thank you, Dr. Baker...I really appreciate that," Laura responded, in her most 'grown-up' voice, of course hoping that her pa and Almanzo would get the hint that she was indeed no longer a 'little girl'. She was thankful that at least Dr. Baker was noticing! Almanzo looked uncomfortably at Charles and offered to carry Laura out to the wagon, since her pa's hands were occupied with the crutches. Charles reluctantly agreed, knowing that what was simple and innocent to Almanzo was anything but for his daughter. "Come on, Beth, I gotcha," and with that he carefully manuevered her out of the confines of the exam room and into the waiting room, where Perley Day was sitting, nervously chewing on his fingernails.....

To Be Continued....

bethandmanly wrote:: Perley Day stood up to get the door for Almanzo. Laura glared at him, but said nothing. Charles and Perley Day followed behind Almanzo. Charles crawled into the back of the wagon and took Laura out of Almanzo's arms. She was disappointed. She loved being in Manly's big, strong arms.

"Mr. Ingalls, if there is anythin I can do for ya please let me know," said Almanzo.

Still furious over what happened to Laura, Charles responded, "No I think the Wilder family has done enough for us today."

Embarrassed, Laura looked up at her father. "Pa, it wasn't Almanzo's fault I got hurt."

"It was his buggy, his horse, and his brother that caused this to happen. He's as much at fault as Perley Day."

Laura began to argue but Almanzo interrupted. "No Beth, your Pa is right. I'm responsible for Perley Day. I never shoulda let him drive ya home. I'm sorry ya got hurt." With nothing left to say, Almanzo slapped Perley Day on the arm and the men walked over to Almanzo's wagon. They glanced back at Laura one last time before heading back home.

Laura watched until she could no longer see Almanzo's wagon. She looked up at Charles who was still kneeling above her. He pointed his finger at her and said, "I'm only gonna say this once Half-pint. You stay away from Almanzo and his horse from now on."

"But Pa..." she pleaded

"No, I don't want to hear it. I knew it was a mistake to let you go over to Wilder's and this has proved it. I mean it Laura. You are not to go over there ever again."

To be continued...

ChristinaAL wrote:: (can I jump in on this??) ;)

The Ingalls' house was finally silent. The silver light from the moon flooded in through the window and across the wooden floor of the loft, where Laura lay awake in her bed. She had tried to sleep; after the day's events she was exhausted. But no matter how hard she tried, she couldn't. The pain was just too bad.

Not the pain in her leg, she really had felt better after being treated by the Doc. Plus, Ma had made sure she was well taken care of when she got home. But her heart hurt. Ached is more like it, she thought to herself, trying to stiffle a sob. How could Pa forbid her from seeing Almanzo? Surely he knew how she felt about him, even if she didn't say the words herself. He was her pa, she his little girl. He knew these things. Why would he do such a thing to cause her such pain? It wasn't Almanzo's fault that Pearly Day had turned out the way he did.

Now she would never be able to spend time with Almanzo again. She would never have a chance with him and he would meet someone else. Unable to muffle it this time, Laura let out a sob. Quickly, she buried her face in the pillow and continued sobbing. She was crying so hard that she didn't even notice someone walk across the floor until she felt a hand placed gently on her shoulder....

(to be continued)
(the bad part about this is I have an idea in mind for who it was!! LOL. But it's up to whoever wants to continue :)

bethandmanly wrote:: Albert's touch shocked her and she tried in vain to hide her emotions.

"It's all right Laura, you don't have to hide your tears from me."

He sat down carefully on the bed. She winced in pain as the mattress moved. "I'm sorry," said Albert.

"It's okay. The pain in my heart is worse than the pain in my leg."

"Pa's real angry, huh?"

"Furious is more like it," she replied. "He told me I can't ever go over to Almanzo's place again."

"But it was Perley Day that caused the accident."

"I know," she said, shaking her head. "But Pa never wanted me around Almanzo's new horse in the first place. Actually, he never wanted me around Almanzo at all." Laura sniffled and wiped away the last few tears.

"What are you gonna do?" he asked.

"I'm not sure yet. I guess I'll wait for Pa to get over being mad and see if he changes his mind."

"Not much of a plan," Albert, the perpetual schemer replied.

"I know, but most of my plans don't turn out too good anyway."

"Let me think about it. I'm sure there's a way to get Pa to change his mind faster."

She leaned over and hugged him. "Thanks Albert."

"No problem Laura." Albert stood up and wandered back to his side of the loft, pulling the curtain shut. "Good night Laura," he called.

"Goodnight Albert." Laura nestled into her bed, her heart not quite so heavy. How could she ever convince Almanzo she was a woman if she wasn't able to see him? As she drifted off to sleep, she said a prayer that whatever plan Albert was hatching would work.

to be continued...

(BTW Christina, glad you jumped in here. I hope others do too. Cheryl)

New Pioneer Number of posts : 119 Location : Germany

LHDaisy wrote:: A new morning started and Albert and Carrie were about to go to school, when Albert climbed up to the loft and walked over to Laura. 'I'm going to school now and wanted to say goodbye'. 'Albert' asked Laura. 'Yeah' he responded. 'Do you really think that what your up to will work?' she asked. 'Well, all I can do is try, but I'll do my best'. 'Thanks' said Laura. 'Your welcome' answerd Albert. 'Well, take care allright'. 'I will' said Laura.
Albert walked back to the ladder and started to decent when he suddenly stopt and looked at Laura with a big grin on his face. 'What?' said Laura, who knew that face of her brother so well. 'Shall I ask Nellie if she wants to come by today?' he said holding back the laughter. 'Oh you!' Laura tried to look angry at him, but they both started laughing out loud. 'I love ya Albert'. 'I love you too Laura'. Then Albert was out of Laura's sight, she heard him and Carrie say goodbye to ma and pa and heard the door shut. Then she lay there, alone, in the silent loft.

Amy wrote:: That evening, Laura lie in her bed staring at the ceiling, listening to her family going about their business down below. She'd had such a boring day; she wondered how she could possibly tolerate so much time on bedrest. She felt so helpless, so useless. She heard a knock at the door, and the shrill voice of Eliza Jane Wilder speaking to her pa. "Good evening, Mr. Ingalls, Mrs. Ingalls. I just wanted to pay a visit to Laura. How is she?" Ma showed Eliza Jane up to the loft for a visit with Laura. "Mrs. Wilder, how kind of you to come visit me!", Laura exclaimed, sincerely surprised that Eliza Jane had come. "It's my pleasure Laura, you know what a special student you are to me! I'm just so sorry that this has happened. I apologize for Perley Day's behavior," she remarked, as she looked away embarrasedly. Laura just shrugged it off, thanking her, but politely letting her know she didn't want to talk about it. "Well Laura, I'm here for another reason, besides checking in on your health." Laura looked at her quizically. "I had an idea that I wanted to share with you. I know that you'll be on bedrest for some time, and I thought that maybe....well, maybe you'd like to study for the teacher's examination? I don't want to put pressure on you, but I just thought that with all the time you have at home, you could be studying. I could get some books for you to start. What do you say?" Laura could not believe her ears. Why didn't she think of that? That was it! Not only was it her dream to become a teacher, but it occured to her at that moment that this could be just the thing to put her in a different light to both her pa and Almanzo. "Thank you, Mrs. Wilder. I would love to start right away!"

To Be Continued

I'm thrilled to see others joining in! Let's keep it going guys! [type] Hey Misti, come join in the fun! ;)

bethandmanly wrote:: Laura borrowed the necessary books from Miss Wilder, knowing her family couldn't afford them. Her days now became ones of purpose, as her body healed she could work towards her goals of becoming a teacher and making Pa and Almanzo see her as a woman. Pa had said once she became a teacher, he would consider her a woman.

One night Laura was studying extremely late and Albert poked his head out from behind the curtain begging her to turn down the lamp.

"Just cover your face with a pillow," she replied with annoyance.

"Nice way to talk to the brother who asked Miss Wilder if you could study for the teacher's exam while you're laid up."

Laura dropped her vocabulary book on the floor. "Are you all right Laura?" Caroline yelled up the stairs from her bedroom.

"Yes, Ma it was only a book hitting the floor."

"It's time to turn out the lights Laura. You need your rest."

"Okay Ma," she replied, turning down the lamp. She looked over at Albert and whispered. "You're the one that got Miss Wilder to come over?"

"Yep. I told her how sad you were feeling about missing school because you really wanted to take your teacher's exam soon...and how I wished there was some way for you to keep up with the lessons from home."

"I suppose you put on your distraught face before mentioning it too."

"Of course, I have to put those skills I learned in Winoka to good use some time," he chuckled.

"Thanks Albert. I really appreciate it. If I can be ready to take my teacher's exam by the time I get out of this cast, then Pa and Almanzo will see me as a woman for sure."

"It might take more than one exam for that Laura."

"Well, it's a first step anyway," she said with confidence. "Goodnight Albert."

"Goodnight Laura."

She watched as Albert's hand disappeared behind the curtain. Laura knew this teacher's exam would make all the difference in the world and she intended to pass it with flying colors. She leaned over and picked up the book off the floor. Pulling the lamp closer to her bed, she kept reading under the dim light until sleep overtook her.

To be continued...

LHDaisy wrote:: Caroline layed back when she heard Charles say 'I can't believe she was still studying at this hour'. 'I know' said Caroline. 'She just wants to pass the exam so badly'. 'Well, I know, but that doesn't give her any reason to study this late' anwserd Charles. 'I don't understand why she wants to take the exam anyway, she is still a little girl'. 'She will have students older then her'. Caroline listend to him talk with a smile on her face. She waited till he stopped talking and said 'Well, Charles, she is getting older. I mean, she will be turning 16 soon'. 'And with all the time she have to spend in that bed, I'm glad she found a way to make it usefull'. Charles now listend to Caroline, but he didn't had a smile on his face. He waited till Caroline was finished talking and said 'There are so many ways to do something usefull and she picks out studying for her teaching exam'. 'It was nice of Mrs. Wilder to come by, but I wish she told me about this idea first'. 'Now Charles, does this have something to do with the fact that you still see Laura as your little girl' ma asked. 'Well, she is' he anwserd'. 'Fathers', said Caroline with a grin, it's so hard for them to see their daughters growing up'. 'And that goes for mothers too' Charles replied with now a big grin on his face too. 'Well, what about if we try to go to sleep too, we both have a bussy day tomorrow' he said. 'Allright' said Caroline. Charles took Caroline's arm and put it around his waist. 'Goodnight darling' he said. 'Goodnight Charles' she replied. Caroline couldn't help but still laugh in herself about Charles concern about Laura.

Note: I can't remember if Laura was already 16 in this story or not, if so, then forget that line. ;)

New Pioneer Number of posts : 119 Location : Germany

bethandmanly wrote:: The next morning Charles and Caroline took Laura in to see Doc Baker. She was uncomfortable being jostled around in the back of the wagon, but her hopes that she would run into Manly while they were in town kept her in good spirits.

Almanzo was over at the Feed and Seed when he saw Charles pull up to Doc Baker's office. Seeing Laura in the back he hopped down from the platform and ran over to greet them.

He removed his hat. "Howdy Mr. Ingalls, Mrs. Ingalls. It's good to see ya around Beth."

"Thanks Manly," Laura said with a big smile.

"Hello Wilder," Charles said tersely.

"Can I give ya a hand gettin Beth out of the wagon, Mr. Ingalls?"

Charles shrugged. He was having a hard time managing Laura and her wrapped leg all by himself. "I guess so." Laura smiled again as Manly reached into the back of the wagon and grabbed her hand. When Laura got to the edge of the wagon, Almanzo put his arm around her back. "Now lean on me Beth. I'll make sure ya don't fall."

"I know you will Manly," Laura replied, her heart flip-flopping inside her chest.

Once Charles and Almanzo were sure Laura was firmly on the ground, Charles handed her the set of crutches Doc Baker had given him the day of the accident.

"Thanks Manly," she said smiling at him.

He flashed his crooked smile at her. "It's my pleasure Beth."

"I'm going to see if the cast can come off today," she told him.

"That's good to hear."

"I've been studying for my teacher's exam while I've been laid up at home."

"I know. My sister told me. Seems like my girl's growin up."

Laura frowned at his reference to her being a girl. She knew she just had to pass this exam to prove to him once and for all she was indeed a woman. Charles frowned for another reason; he didn't like the affection Almanzo seemed to have for his young daughter.

"Well Wilder, Laura has to get in to see Doc Baker. Thanks for the help," he said, putting his arm around Laura's back and directing her towards the doctor's office.

"See ya later Beth," he called after her.

"See ya Manly," she answered. When she saw Pa's face Laura doubted she would be seeing Almanzo any time soon.

To be continued...

LHDaisy wrote:: Almanzo walked back to the Feed & Seed. He felt that Mr. Ingalls still was unhappy about all what happend. I should have know better about Perley Day. How could I have been this stupid, he thought. If I wouldn't have gave him permission to ride Barnum, all this wouldn't have happend.

'Hey Almanzo!' he heard. 'You going to finish loading my wagen? I'm on time schedule here'. 'Oh, yeah, sorry Danny' said Almanzo as he hurried to grab the next seedbag and threw it in the back of the wagon.

While he was finishing the loading, his mind again wondered off about all the stuff that happend. Maybe it was a good idea to go over the Ingalls place anytime soon to talk with Mr. Ingalls.

Amy wrote:: "Albert, hurry and finish your breakfast. I want to get going!", Laura scolded her brother for being so slow. She was anxious to get to Doc Baker's to remove her cast. "Laura, I know you're excited, but be patient", ma said soothingly, understanding Laura's anxiety. "I can only imagine how cumbersome that cast has been for you." Laura smiled at ma lovingly, grateful for her understanding. Albert finished shortly after and they all piled into the wagon, Pa once again lifting Laura into the back. "Pa, do you think it would be all right if I go back to school now that my cast is coming off?" "Are you sure you're ready for that Half Pint?", he asked, somewhat surprised, considering she was doing so well studying at home for the teacher's exam. "It would be good for me to continue studying at the school, pa...that way Mrs. Wilder will be right there if I ever have any questions." Pa nodded his approval, however somewhat uneasy at the name 'Wilder'. Laura winked at Albert, knowing that her brother would be on to what she was up to. Even though Laura knew her pa wouldn't let her near Almanzo, at least she had the privelege now of being able to see his handsome face every day, and perhaps a wink from him on occasion! Ma turned to look at her precocious daughter from the seat of the wagon, raising an eyebrow at her knowingly.

To Be Continued...

bethandmanly wrote:: Perley Day had been staying close to the Wilder farm ever since the accident. Eliza Jane took care of what he needed, and even though Almanzo was still furious with him, they agreed Perley Day should stay at least until Laura was back on her feet; maybe by that time she would be ready to hear his apology. Almanzo had work to do around the farm this morning so he went out to the barn and started his day. He saw Perley Day sitting on the porch whittling a stick.

"Perley Day," he yelled out the barn door, "Why don't ya come give me a hand." He mosied over to where Almanzo stood holding a few planks of wood and his hammer. "For cryin out loud Perley Day a man could die standin her waitin for ya!"

"I ain't no hired hand."

"You listen to me Perley Day," said Almanzo, pointing a finger at him. "Eliza Jane and I are feedin ya, and given ya a roof over your head...the least ya can do is help out."

Not moving, Perley Day looked down at his feet and shuffled the hay around on the floor. He was almost afraid to ask, but he knew Almanzo would know more about this than their sister. "Manzo, I was thinkin of askin Mr. Ingalls if I could do some work around his place for a while...kinda make up a little for what happened to Laura. Do ya think he'd let me?"

Almanzo shook his head. "I don't know Perley Day. Mr. Ingalls is still pretty upset about it. Albert told Eliza Jane that he forbid Laura to come over here again."

"What do you care if she comes over anyway?" Perley Day asked, baiting him. "She's just a little girl, ya said it yourself."

"I know she's young, but I like talkin to her and all. She knows a lot for someone her age."

"Maybe she's not as immature as ya think big brother."

Almanzo shrugged. "Are ya gonna go talk to Mr. Ingalls?"

"Yeah, the worst he can do is say no. See ya later Manzo."

As Perley Day walked off towards the Ingalls farm, Almanzo stood there for a few moments thinking about what he had said. Manly had always considered Laura to be a nice, young friend, but when he found her underneath his buggy that day he felt something different. He had disregarded it as his being concerned for her welfare, but he had felt it again the other day when he helped Laura out of her Pa's wagon. It felt natural to have Laura by his side, and being that close to her he noticed how pretty she was for the first time. Almanzo shook his head. 'This is crazy,' he thought. He couldn't have feelings for Beth. She was too young for him...or was she?

To be continued...

You know ladies, I noticed that you stick by the rules and write a paragraph and let the next person post. But it seems I always write more than that. Please feel free to let me know if you think I'm being a hog.

Cheryl

New Pioneer Number of posts : 119 Location : Germany

LHDaisy wrote:: Perley Day arrived at the Ingalls place and nokked on the door. 'Oh hello, Mrs. Ingalls' he said when he saw that Caroline opend the door. 'Hi Perly-Day' said Caroline. She was surprised to see him.

'Euh...is Mr. Ingalls here'?
'No he drove into town with Laura and Albert'.
'Oh...how is Laura?' Perley Day was almost afraid to ask, because he didn't know how Mrs. Ingalls felt about everything.
'She's doing fine, her cast is coming off today'.
'Oh that sure is good news'. I'm euh..I'm really sorry about everything that happend Mrs. Ingalls' said a nervous Perley Day.
'Thank you for coming to apologize' said Caroline.
'Well, that's not the only reason I'm here, but that's something I have to talk about with Mr. Ingalls. You think he'll be back soon'.
'Well, he'll be back later this day' Caroline replied.
'Oh well..then I'm coming back later. Sorry again for everything'.
'Allright Perley Day'.
'Goodbye Mrs. Ingalls' he said.
'Bye Perley-Day' said Caroline as she looked at him walking away.

Perley-Day felt dissapointed that Charles hadn't been there, now that finally he went up to do something right away. He could also go into town to see Charles there. But he wasn't sure if that was the best thing to do. Maybe he should just come by the Ingalls house later, he thought.

bethandmanly wrote:: Perley Day finally decided he would walk the road from the Ingalls house towards town. If he were lucky, he would cross them on the road somewhere. He knew he had to set things right with Laura...and her Pa. He had walked about a mile when he saw the wagon coming down the road. He stopped and waited for Charles to pull up alongside him.

Perley Day removed his hat and looked up at Charles. "Afternoon Mr. Ingalls," he said, swallowing hard.

Charles nodded. "Perley Day."

He noticed Laura would not look at him, but he thought maybe she would soften towards him if her Pa would let him work at the farm. "Mr. Ingalls, I was hopin I could convince ya to let me work at your farm for a few weeks, ya know kinda help ya out a little."

Suspicious, Charles eyed him warily. "Why would you want to do that?"

"I know ya have every reason to doubt it Sir, but I'm really sorry for hurtin Laura the way I did. I was thinkin if I lent ya a hand that would help make up for some of the Doc's bills." He stopped to glance over at Laura, who was still turned the other way. "And I thought, it might give Laura a chance to see I'm not a total cad."

She turned to look at him, her eyes squinting in anger. "You left me pinned under your brother's buggy just to save your hide Perley Day. I could have lost my leg. If it weren't for Almanzo, who knows how long I would have been stuck under there."

"Laura, ya have to believe me, I was goin for Doc Baker." He hung his head down in shame. "But I knew Manzo would murder me if he found out, and I got to thinkin about that, so I stopped to mull things over a while. I decided it didn't matter if he whalloped me, I knew I had to help ya and I went to get the Doc, but Almanzo showed up first."

"I'm sorry Perley Day; I know I'm supposed to forgive and forget, but I can't right now. Not yet."

He turned back to Charles who was still on the wagon seat. "So what do ya say Mr. Ingalls, can I work for ya? Please, it would help me feel better about the whole thing."

"I don't really care how you feel about it Perley Day, but I could use a hand right now." Looking back at Laura, he pointed over at Perley Day and said, "It's up to you Laura. If you're okay with him being at the house then it's okay with me."

Laura glanced over at Perley Day and then back at her Pa. She didn't like being the one who chose. She loved her Pa and she knew how much work he had lately. The mill had been busier than usual and even though Albert stuck close to home when he wasn't in school, there were still things that needed to get done around the farm. How could she say no, when she knew how much Pa needed the help. Feeling like she had no choice she answered, "It's okay I guess."

Perley Day smiled. "Thanks Laura. You'll see, I'm not the man ya think I am." She shook her head in response.

He promised Charles he would be at the Ingalls farm tomorrow morning and then he began his walk home. He had a much livlier step than he had on his way there. Perley Day would show Laura, her Pa and Almanzo that he could be a better man.

To be continued...

LHDaisy wrote:: Charles arrived at the house and pulled the wagon to a stop. Although Laura was able to get out of the wagen herself now, he still helped her out. Together they walked to the house, when the door already opend and a happy Caroline run to greet them. 'Did everything go allright?' she asked anqiously. 'It went fine, ma' Laura responded happily. 'Good! Now come inside quick I want to take a look at your leg'. Inside the house Caroline looked at the leg from Laura. 'It healed so well and it looks really good' she said. 'Thanks Ma!' 'I'm so glad the cast is off' Laura replied. 'I think that makes 3 of us' said Charles. Laura smiled at her father, while he winked at her back.

'Oh, Perley Day stopped by the house a little while back' said Caroline. 'We met him on the road' said Charles. 'Oh' replied a surprised Caroline. 'He said to me that he wanted to talk to you about something, what was it about?'. Charles was silent for a moment and looked at Laura, before he told Caroline what Perley-Day wanted.

To be continued....

bethandmanly wrote:: Almanzo saw Perley Day strolling up the front steps. He sat down in his chair next to the fireplace to see what his brother had to say about his visit to the Ingalls farm.

"Howdy Manzo!" he exclaimed when he walked in.

"Well I guess by that smile on your face I can tell Mr. Ingalls said yes."

"Ya bet he did, but it was Laura who decided."

"Whatdya mean?"

"Mr. Ingalls said he could use the help if Laura was okay with me bein around, and she said yes." He sat down in the chair across from Almanzo. "Can ya drive me by there on your way into town tomorrow mornin?"

"Sure, I'd like to see how Beth's feelin anyway."

"The cast came off today. She'll be on crutches for a little while till she gets her strength back, but Doc says she'll be fine in no time."

Almanzo closed his eyes and breathed a sign of relief. "I'm sure glad to hear that. But ya know Perley Day, it coulda been a lot worse. I hope ya learned a good lesson from all this."

"I have big brother. And I promise I won't pull a foolish stunt like that again."

"I wonder if I should bring some flowers to Beth in the mornin," said Almanzo. "Kinda like a get well gift."

"I thought ya said she was just a little girl."

Embarrassed by what Perley Day was thinking Almanzo tried to recover quickly. "I...a...I just thought it would be nice. She's been through a lot lately and it just might cheer her up."

"U-huh," said Perley Day with a smirk, knowing his brother wasn't as innocent as he pretended to be.

To be continued...

New Pioneer Number of posts : 119 Location : Germany

Amy wrote:: The Ingalls family sat at the breakfast table when they heard a wagon pull up. Charles and Laura exchanged glances, both guessing it was Perley Day. Charles knew his daughter was rather uncomfortable with the situation, but he really did need the help with the farm. He stood up to get the door, and there stood Perley Day and Almanzo. Laura's face went from sullen to cheerful in the shake of a lamb's tail, and she met Almanzo's smiling eyes. "Mornin' Mr. Ingalls, Mrs. Ingalls. How're ya doin', Beth?" Charles nodded at Almanzo, but just couldn't bring himself to smile at the young man. "I'm doin' much better, Manly. Just got my cast off yesterday!", Laura happily showed him her healing leg. "That's real good, Beth, and you'll be off those crutches in no time too. Hey, and my sister says you're studying for the teacher's exam?" Laura was hoping Eliza Jane had told him. She noticed that Almanzo was hiding something behind his back as well, but she didn't question it. "Oh yes, just one more week!" Charles, anxious to put a halt to Laura's and Almanzo's conversation, addressed Perley Day. "So are you ready to get to work?", he asked him, rather curtly. "Charles", came the exasperated voice of his wife. "Perley Day, Almanzo, won't you come in and sit for a spell? Have some breakfast with us. There's plenty!" Charles's eyes widened at his wife's gesture. What on earth was she doing?

To Be Continued....

bethandmanly wrote:: Each Wilder took a seat on either side of Laura. Almanzo flashed her his crooked smile. "These are for you Beth," he said, holding out the flowers to her.

Laura had a wide smile on her face when she replied, "Oh, thank you Manly."

Caroline got up and said she would place them in some water, but Charles just glared at Almanzo, angry that Laura would get the wrong impression. The meal continued with a sympathetic Caroline staring across the table at her frustrated husband, both watching as Laura enjoyed the company of two young men - both who seemed interested in her. Albert and Carrie sat back and watched the whole thing. Albert laughed inside, knowing his Pa was fuming.

When breakfast was over Charles stood up and announced, "It's time to leave for school kids. Albert, Carrie you get in the wagon. I'll help your sister."

Almanzo stood up, "If ya don't mind Mr. Ingalls, I would like to drive Laura into town." Laura beamed. "I could take Albert and Carrie too if ya like. That way you could get Perley Day started." Laura didn't like the thought of her siblings tagging along, but as long as she could be with Almanzo, she wouldn't complain.

Charles looked at his wife, hat in hand. Caroline smiled. "It would be a big help Charles," she explained.

"All right," he said in defeat. He watched from the doorway as Laura leaned against Almanzo and he helped her up to the wagon seat. He was now more worried than ever that Almanzo was becoming a big part of Half-Pint's life.

To be continued...

Amy wrote:: The ride into town was delightful for Laura. She sat up on the bench with Almanzo, while Albert and Carrie played games in the back, obviously uninterested in what she and Almanzo were discussing. They carried on small talk, basically just about how Barnum was healing up from his own new injury from the accident, and how Laura was managing for the teacher's exam. But throughout their conversation, Laura noticed something different. There was something in Almanzo's eyes when she glanced up at him, listening intently to her. She couldn't place it...there was just something there that she hadn't seen before. He seemed unusually uncomfortable with her, and she wondered if she'd done or said something wrong. When they arrived in town, Albert and Carrie scrambled out of the wagon, thanking Almanzo, and running off into the school-house. When Almanzo came around to Laura's side to help her down, she sat looking down at her hands in her lap. "Is everything all right, Beth?", he asked. "I was about to ask you the same question," was Laura's reply, concern evident in her voice. Almanzo just shrugged off her question and said, "I'm doin' just fine Beth....just been worried about ya is all". They locked eyes for a moment, and Laura decided not to press it. He carefully helped her down, and just as Laura turned to gather her books out of the wagon, she felt his hand tighten on her waist. She looked surprisedly up at him, and saw the deep crimson spread across his face. He cleared his throat and said, "You have a good day now, Beth", and gave her his usual wink.

To Be Continued....

LHDaisy wrote:: Laura walked over slowly to the schoolhouse, looking back once in a while, seeing how Almanzo made his way over to the Feed & Seed. 'Hey Laura, are you allright?' asked Albert, who noticed Laura's strange behaviour. 'I'm fine' she replied quick, kind of embarred that her brother noticed the way she acted. She went over to sit at the steps of the schoolhouse and thought of the way Almanzo had looked at her while he drove her into town. She suddenly heard the schoolbel ring and she grabbed her slate and books, got up and walked into the school with the rest of the children. While everyone was taking their seats, Miss Wilder stopped at the bench were Laura and Albert where sitting on. 'It's nice to have you back with us, Laura' she said. 'Thank you Miss Wilder' said Laura with a big smile.

To be Continued...

New Pioneer Number of posts : 119 Location : Germany

bethandmanly wrote:: Almanzo watched as Laura hopped up the stairs, holding her crutches in one hand and balancing herself with the other hand. He had wanted to help her into the school, but Albert and Carrie had taken her books and lunch pail with them, so he thought it might make him look forward. When she reached the top step she turned back to look at him. She smiled and his face turned red again, embarrassed that she knew he had feelings for her. She waved and he waved back, then she disappeared behind the closed doors of the school.

He stared at the doors for a few moments. Almanzo was confused by this new-found attraction to his Beth. They had always been friends but he wanted more than friendship now; knew he would never be satisfied with less. But he doubted her pa would approve. And he wondered about Perley Day...did he truly have feelings for Laura too, or was it just another one of his schemes?

To be continued...

Amy wrote:: Charles and Perley Day worked side by side in the fields throughout the morning, and he was pleased with the hard work Perley Day was actually doing. They even carried on a cheerful conversation, and Charles had to admit he liked Perley Day's jovial disposition. Perhaps this young man truly did feel sorry for what had happened, and pa was beginning to think he had been hard enough on Perley Day over the course of the past month, and it was time to let bygones be bygones. Not to mention, Charles was sensing that something was changing between Laura and Almanzo, and he did not approve. Perley Day did seem to want to make ammends, and he did seem to fancy Laura. Charles thought they were cute together, in a way, and of course much better suited to each other in regards of age. Charles decided to cautiously approach the subject. "So, Perley Day, you're fond of my daughter, huh?" So much for being cautious! Perley Day looked at him, wide-eyed, and for once, speechless....

To Be Continued...

LHDaisy wrote:: 'Euh....well, sir, she sure has an upbeat character'. 'I see' said Charles 'you sure have an upbeat character yourself, boy'. 'Thank you' replied Perley Day. 'At what age did you start to travell across the country'. 'When I was 15, I kind of have itchi feeth you might say'.
'I bed you've seen a lot of different places?' 'Oh yes sir I have, I just came out of New Orleans. I had lots of jobs too, doing mostly everything and everything'. 'So what brought you over here' asked Charles. 'Well, it had been a long time since I had seen Manzo and my sis'. 'I see' said Charles. 'But what about setteling down?' he continue asking. 'Oh, well, if I find the right place, I sure would like to settle down'. 'But you haven't found it yet?' Charles asked curious. 'Well, I don't know excactly, I must admit I really like here, I mean nice town, nice people. But there isn't so much to do here. Don't get me wrong Mr. Ingalls, but it's really quit around here, I mean I'm used to crowed city's. But I must admit this is nice for a change'. Charles didn't really know what to think about Perley Day his lifestyle, although he would rather see Laura with Perley Day than with Almanzo.

Charles looked out on the field and didn't know any other place he would rather be, that right here, on Plum Creek. Maybe if Perley Day stayed long enough, he could grow to love this place.

'I'm sure glad with your help Perley Day, you do good work' he said. 'Well, thank you sir, working on the fields along with Manzo and Royal, when we were young, sure comes in handy now' he said with a big grin. 'So you wouldn't mind being a farmer' asked Charles. 'I think it's a great line of work' answerd Perley Day. Charles liked Perley Day's view about farming. Maybe his idea of getting him and Laura together isn't that crazy afterall.

To be continued...

bethandmanly wrote:: After dinner Charles left Perley Day with a list of chores and took off for town. He thought he would put a couple hours in at the mill and then drive the kids home from school. When he got there, he saw Almanzo over at the Feed and Seed and decided to pay him a visit.

"Afternoon Almanzo."

"Afternoon Mr. Ingalls," he replied, shocked that Charles would make an effort to come see him.

"Can I talk to you a minute?" the older man asked.

He jumped down from from the platform so he would be about the same height as Charles. Taking off his hat, he replied, "Sure. What's on your mind Mr. Ingalls?"

"I was very concerned about you bringing Laura flowers today. She is just a young girl, and it might give her the wrong impression."

Almanzo nodded. "I see."

"I think you're a very nice man Almanzo, but you're a great deal older than Laura."

"I know how ya feel about the difference in our ages Mr. Ingalls. I used to feel the same way."

Suddenly uneasy Charles asked, "What do you mean you used to feel the same way?"

It was Almanzo's turn to be uncomfortable. "Mr. Ingalls, lately I've been seeing Laura a little differently. She's no longer a girl. She's a young woman. And...I...a...I would like your permission to court her."

Charles couldn't believe what he was hearing. He was so sure Almanzo saw Laura as the child she was, that he never considered how this might complicate his plans for Laura and Perley Day. He looked down at the ground, not able to look Almanzo in the face. 'What in the heck am I going to tell him?' he thought. "Have you said anything to Laura yet?"

"No Sir. I wanted to speak to you first. I knew it might come as a bit of a surprise to ya."

"I have to be honest with you Almanzo, I'm not sure I can give you my permission right now."

Almanzo was disappointed. "May I ask why?"

"Because Perley Day is also interested in Laura and I feel he is a better suitor for her, considering their ages. And after watching that young man work my farm today, I think I might have been wrong about him. Perhaps you were wrong too."

"I'm sorry to havta disagree with ya Mr. Ingalls, but ya don't know my brother the way I do. He is a boy full of dreams and schemes. Today he thinks he likes Laura, but by tomorrow he could be half way to St. Louis."

"It still doesn't change how I feel about the difference in your ages. I won't give you my permission right now; not until I see how things work out with Perley Day."

"I'll respect your wishes Mr. Ingalls, but I havta tell ya I care for your daughter...and one day, I'm gonna make that known to her."

Almanzo slammed his hat on his head and went back to work, leaving a worried Charles standing there wondering about Half-pint's future.

To be continued...

New Pioneer Number of posts : 119 Location : Germany

Amy wrote:: That evening, Almanzo sat at the table in his parlor, having tea with his sister. Eliza Jane had been worried about the strange way he had been acting recently. She asked how his day was, and he answered, "Fine, just fine," and proceeded to absentmindedly fill his cup with sugar. "Since when do you put six spoonfuls of sugar into your tea?" Almanzo stilled and snapped out of his thoughts. Shaking his head, he smiled at his sister and said, "I don't know what I was thinkin'." She looked at him knowingly. "I think I do." He met her eyes and asked, 'You do?" She nodded and gave him a smile. She knew. "Laura Ingalls?" she asked, already knowing the answer. "You are fond of her, Many?" Almanzo blushed furiously. "Is it that obvious, Sis?" Eliza Jane grinned, and said, "I've noticed that you've seemed different lately. You've seemed almost sad. I guessed that you were missing her company while she was laid up in bed all this time." He looked her square in the eye and asked, "Don't ya think it's wrong? How can I have feelings for Beth....I mean, don't ya think she's just a little girl?" Without hesitation, his sister placed her hand over his and stated, 'No. No I do not. She's about to turn 16 in just a few weeks." Almanzo smiled at her gratefully. He already knew that he felt she was a young woman, but he needed reassurance, especially after what happened with Laura's pa that afternoon. "Thanks sis, but it doesn't matter anyway. I talked to her pa today and he doesn't approve of my courting her." Quite surprised, Eliza Jane raised her eyebrows at him. "I've never known you to back down from something, or in this case someone, you care about, Many. It's up to you to prove to Mr. Ingalls that you are indeed worthy of Laura." Almanzo realized then that he could not back down. There had to be a way for him to earn Charles's trust.

*NOTE*Sorry...I got a little carried away! ;)

To Be Continued....

bethandmanly wrote:: It was late by the time Perley Day got home. When he opened the front door, Almanzo was sitting in the front room waiting for him.

"I'm a little old for ya to be waitin up for me Manzo."

"I need to talk to ya Perley Day," he said in a serious tone. "Why don't ya come sit down."

Perley Day tossed his hat on the table and plopped down in Eliza Jane's rocker. "What's on your mind brother?"

"Laura Ingalls," he said matter-of-factly. Perley Day smirked. "Do ya like her?"

"I don't see how that's any of your business Manzo."

Almanzo sighed deeply and tried another approach. "Why were ya so late comin home tonight?"

The younger Wilder smiled. "Well, it was just about supper time when Mr. Ingalls and I finished up, so he invited me to stay. Mrs. Ingalls is a fine cook. After that we sat around listenin to Mr. Ingalls play his fiddle. Laura seemed real perky tonight. Thought maybe she might be thinkin of forgivin me for my lack of good judgement a few weeks back." He was going to stop there, but he wanted to get a rise out of his older brother so he added, "Mr. Ingalls asked me today if I ever thought of settlin down. We talked about farmin."

That did it for Almanzo. He stood up and walked over to his little brother who remained seated. Almanzo towered over him, an angry look on his face. He placed his big hands on the arms of the rocker and bent in so he was close to his brother's face. "I'm warnin ya Perley Day, this better not be another one of those famous schemes of yours. If ya hurt Beth again, I'll..."

Perley Day laughed. "You'll what," he quipped. "Mr. Ingalls doesn't want ya around Laura. He thinks you're too old for her. He wants a younger, smarter man with a few dreams to take care of his little girl; not some dried up, old farmer without a promise of givin her a good life." Perley Day stood up and pushed him out of the way. Almanzo still stung by his words remained silent. "Ya had you're chance at her Manzo. She never wanted me in the first place. The only person she's ever had eyes for is you. I saw it the first time the two of ya were standin here together. But ya were too ignorant to figure it out. Now it's my turn. I got Mr. Ingalls on my side, and soon enough Laura will forget all about that buggy incident and take a likin to me too." He started to walk away and then turned back to his brother to add salt to his wounds. "Face it Manzo, you'll never have her."

Perley Day strode into his bedroom, proud of himself for having the upper hand over Almanzo at least once in his life. Almanzo stood there staring into the empty fireplace. 'Could Perley Day be right?' he thought. Was his relationship with Beth over before it even started? Had he lost the battle without there ever being a fight?

To be continued...

Talk about getting carried away Amy! LOL!

LHDaisy wrote:: Laura and Albert were getting ready for bed. Albert climbed up the ladder to the loft and after him, Charles helped Laura getting up the ladder to the loft. He gave her and Albert a kiss goodnight. 'Now you both have sweet dreams' he told them. 'We will pa' they both answerd. Charles climbed down the ladder.

'I wanted to ask earlier' said Albert 'but what do you think about Perly Day being around the house helping pa out?'. Laura was surprised by her brother's question. 'Well, I agreed for him helping pa, because pa can really use the help right now. But after he was here tonight for dinner and how we all listend to pa's music, I felt that I didn't really hated him anymore, you know, like right after the accident. Maybe it's time for me to forgive him'.

'Well, he did leave you out there all alone Laura' said Albert. Albert didn't really like Perley Day. He met a lot of those guys, from his time living in the city. He sure didn't want that Perley Day did something else to hurt Laura.

'Yeah, I know, but I can tell he really is sorry about it. We all get scared sometimes, I'm glad Perley Day is facing his mistake by helping pa to show he wants to start a new'.

Albert couldn't really understand why Laura talked like this, it wasn't like her. He didn't want to talk about Perley Day anymore and thought of something to change the subject. 'Well, I bed you liked it that Almanzo drove us into town today' he said with a grin.

Laura again was surprised by Albert's question. 'Why do you suddenly have an interest in the Wilder family?' she said with a smile, but inside she felt uncomfertable.

'Oh, I just wondered, that's all' said Albert, who kind of regret his question after he noticed the way Laura answerd.

'Hey no more talking upstairs, you both have to get up early tomorrow' they heard Charles say from downstairs. Although they didn't know it from each other, both were very relieved with their pa putting an end to this akward situation.

'I'm sorry pa' said Albert. 'Yeah, me too pa, we'll go to sleep' said Laura.

'Good' they heard from downstairs. Albert blew out the lamp and went to lay in his bed. 'Goodnight Laura' he said. 'Goodnight Albert' replied Laura. She wasn't sleepy at all. It was such a strange day, with Almanzo acting so different towards her and Perley Day being over here tonight. 'What's happening?' she thought.

New Pioneer Number of posts : 119 Location : Germany

bethandmanly wrote:: Perley Day was at the farm early the next morning. He figured he might catch some breakfast if he got there soon enough. When he got to the front door he smelled coffee and cornbread. He rubbed his hands together before knocking.

Charles opened the door and smiled. "Good morning Perley Day. You're a bit early today," he said ushering the young man in.

"Well, I thought maybe I should get an early start this mornin, try to finish up the barn roof."

"Have you had breakfast yet?"

"Na, but don't worry about it. Eliza Jane packed me a big lunch."

"Nonsense," said Charles. "Come and join us. You can't put in a long day's work unless you start the day off right."

"Thank ya Mr. Ingalls." Perley Day smiled and sat down next to Laura.

They sat around the table chatting and Caroline noticed a mischievous look coming over Charles' face. "So Laura, Perley Day and I were talking yesterday and he said he was thinking of settling down in Walnut Grove. He says farming's a great line of work."

"Well Almanzo's a farmer, so maybe he could help you get started Perley Day."

"No help for me Laura. I wanna succeed all by myself."

"Farming can be very difficult," said Caroline. "We've had help from friends many times Perley Day. There's nothing wrong with that."

"I didn't mean nothin bad Mrs. Ingalls...I just wanna see if I can make it on my own. That's the way I've always liked it." Caroline nodded, but she didn't like how sly Perley Day seemed to be. Her instincts told her this young man wasn't sincere.

After breakfast was over, Charles and Perley Day went outside to talk about the day. Laura was about to follow her brother and sister out to the wagon when her mother stopped her. "Albert, Carrie you can go along. Laura will be there in a minute."

Once alone Caroline asked, "What do you think of Perley Day, Laura?"

"I don't know what to think Ma. He seems to be really sorry for what he did, but there's just something about him...oh, I don't know...but Pa seems to really like him."

"I know, but I think you're right Laura. There's something about him." Caroline paused and glanced over at the vase of flowers in the middle of the table. "It was nice of Almanzo to bring you flowers."

Laura smiled. "Yeah, it was." Laura wondered for a moment if she should share her concerns with her mother. "He's been acting real strange lately."

"Have you talked to him about it?"

"I asked him if there was anything wrong, but he said no."

"Maybe there isn't anything wrong; maybe he's just seeing things differently." Caroline looked at her daughter, hoping she understood what she meant.

"Do you mean..."

Caroline nodded and gave her a smile.

"I hope you're right Ma."

"Me too," Caroline replied.

The sound of wagon wheels approaching made them both look out the door. Laura smiled when she saw Almanzo pulling into the yard.

To be continued...

Amy wrote:: "Mornin' Mr. Ingalls", Laura heard Almanzo say as she opened the door of the little house. "I have a proposition for ya....I'd just like ya to hear me out." Charles looked over Almanzo skeptically, and nodded. "Well, ya see sir...I've been thinkin'." He glanced over at Laura and gave her a smile and a nod, then continued on. "I appreciate the fact that Perley Day here has been owning up to his responsibility in the accident, and I just was thinkin' that I'm not so sure I've been doin' the same." Charles was baffled, "I'm not sure I understand, Almanzo." Almanzo put his hand up and said, "I know...let me explain sir. Well, I was thinkin' about how you're takin' some time off work to get some things done around the farm alongside Perley Day, and I just don't feel right about that. After all, I do share some of the responsibility for the accident. I know I should never have let Perley Day take the buggy that day," Almanzo frowned and gave his brother a sideways glance. "So my proposition is....how 'bout you let me work here, alongside Perley Day, while you continue to work at the mill?" Charles didn't know what to say. He was taken off guard by this show of generosity, and although apprehensive, was seriously considering his proposal. "Almanzo, that's very kind of you, but..." Almanzo put his hand up once again, "No buts, Mr. Ingalls. I've already arranged it with my boss at the feed n seed. I'm taking a couple weeks off work." Charles looked over at Caroline, who was standing next to her delighted daughter, nodding her head encouragingly. Charles looked back at him and reluctantly offered his hand. "Almanzo, I would be obliged," forcing a half-smile as the two shook hands.

To Be Continued....

bethandmanly wrote:: "Everybody up in the wagon," said Charles. "Don't want you to be late for school."

Almanzo walked over to Laura and asked if he could help her into the wagon. She nodded. "Thanks Manly."

She turned around and put both hands on the wagon. Almanzo grabbed her by the waist. Laura blushed when she felt his hands around her. Even his touch felt different these days. When she was sitting safely on the wagon seat, Almanzo turned around to glance at Perley Day. He smirked, letting his younger brother know he wasn't going to make it easy for Laura to see him as a suitor. Caroline, Almanzo and Perley Day waved good-bye. Laura turned back to look at Almanzo again. She was beginning to think Ma was right.

Almanzo looked over at Caroline, seeing the laundry basket behind her. "Can I take that down to the creek for you Mrs. Ingalls?"

Caroline smiled. "Thank you Almanzo, that would be a great help. I'm just going to go get Grace." Caroline went inside.

"It's not gonna work ya know," Perley Day said to him.

Almanzo looked as if he didn't know what his brother was talking about, "What isn't?"

"This scheme of yours."

"Scheming is what you do Perley Day. I'm just here to make sure Beth and her family don't get hurt."

Caroline returned with Grace in her arms. She smiled at Almanzo again, knowing she was right about what she had told Laura earlier. "It's so nice to see you around here again Almanzo. I hope you know, you're always welcome." She strolled past Perley Day and then walked down to the creek, chatting with Almanzo along the way.

When he came back to where Perley Day stood he said, "Let's get to work little brother."

"I'm tellin ya, it ain't gonna work. I've got Mr. Ingalls on my side."

Almanzo patted Perley Day on the shoulder. "Yeah, but I got Mrs. Ingalls on mine." He lifted his tools out of his wagon and walked over to start on the barn roof.

Perley Day wondered if his scheme was already beginning to unravel.

To be continued...

LHDaisy wrote:: Charles arrived at the schoolhouse. Laura, Albert and Carrie got out the back of the wagon. 'Have good day' said Charles. 'We will, thanks pa' they replied.

Charles drove over to the Mercantile to pick up some supplies. Nels was outside sweeping the floor. 'Hi Nels!'. 'Hi Charles! I bed you're here to pick up the supplies you ordered'. 'I sure am' replied Charles. 'It's inside' said Nels.

Charles followed Nels into the store where Harriet was dusting the selves. 'Ohh, well goodmorning Mr. Ingalls' she said with her common smile. 'How's Laura?'. 'Laura is doing fine, thank you'. 'Well, that sure is good news.'

'Here you are' said Nels. 'That will be 1,87 cents'. Charles handed him the money. Harriet in the meanwhile walked over to the counter and ended up standing next to Nels. 'Euh Mr. Ingalls, I heard Perley-Day is working for you now'. 'That's right' Charles didn't feel like chatting with Mrs. Oleson. 'And is Laura allright with that?' she asked surprised. 'Yes, Mrs. Oleson, Laura is allright with that'. 'Oh, but after what he've done to her, that's just terrible'. 'Harriet' said Nels. 'Well, Nels, it is terrible'.

'Mrs. Oleson, that's already been a couple of weeks ago and Perley-Day told us he is really sorry about what he did. If you don't mind I have to be on my way'. 'Ofcourse' said Nels. 'Have a good day Charles'. 'You too Nels' he replied.

As Charles walked over to his wagen he kept hearing Harriet's voice in his mind about what she said about Perley-Day. Well, we all make mistakes, he then thought and Perley-Day learned his. I shouldn't start to doubt the boy now, just because of what Harriet said, he thought. Or should he?

New Pioneer Number of posts : 119 Location : Germany

bethandmanly wrote:: Charles thought about his conversation with Mrs. Oleson on the way home. It was obvious Harriet wasn't too keen on Perley Day. Whenver she ran into him she would look at him as if he were a begger. But he also didn't believe Almanzo's lame story about wanting to accept some responsibility for the accident. He knew Almanzo was helping out so he could get closer to Laura, and keep Perley Day away from her.

His conversation with Almanzo the other day came back to him. Almanzo had told him that Perley Day couldn't be trusted. What if he was right? Was that the kind of man he wanted courting his Half-pint? Did it matter that Almanzo was ten years older than Laura? He shook that last thought from his mind. Of course it mattered!

When Charles reached his barn he pulled the horses to a stop. The barn roof was almost finished when he got there, and the supplies he brought back with him would get the next project started. He watched the two brothers a moment. They worked side by side, but neither of them said a word. He wondered if some of that was his doing. By telling Almanzo he couldn't court Laura, he had put the brothers at odds with one another. He decided he should talk to both of them before it went any further.

To be continued...

Amy wrote:: Perley Day looked up from his work to see Charles approaching. He nudged Almanzo to get his attention, who stopped working and looked up as well. "Afternoon, Mr. Ingalls", Almanzo nodded at him, wiping his sweaty forehead. "Afternoon", Charles replied, noticing Almanzo's exhausted form in comparison to that of Perley Day. It was obvious he had barely broken a sweat! Charles put his hands on hips and said, "Why don't you two take a break now....Almanzo, it looks like you need one, and I do have something I'd like to talk about with both of ya." Perley Day gave Almanzo a strained look, wondering what Mr. Ingalls could want to talk about. 'Dagburnit', he thought to himself, 'I knew I should have been working harder out here!' Almanzo grabbed his canteen and took a swig, following Charles over to the pond by the little house. 'Oh boy', he thought to himself, 'What have I done now?', a little annoyed with the idea of having yet another conversation with Laura's pa. Almanzo was quite sore about her father's narrow-minded views on their age difference, and even more upset that he could think that Perley Day was even remotely trustworthy around Laura. "So, Mr. Ingalls, what did you want to discuss?"

To Be Continued....

bethandmanly wrote:: "I want you boys to listen to me. I know you're both interested in Laura, and I have some reservations about her being courted by either one of you."

Perley Day and Almanzo looked at one another, the anger showing on their faces.

Charles continued. "Perley Day, you were reckless with my daughter's life, but you seemed sincere about helping me out so I gave it a shot. But now I come back here and it looks like Almanzo's been doing all the work."

"Mr. Ingalls..." Perley Day began, trying to find a way to make the situation look different than it was.

"I'm not finished yet," he interrupted in a stern voice. Almanzo stifled a laugh. "I don't like what I've been hearing in town about you Perley Day. Now I don't usually pay much attention to what people have to say, but in this case I'm hearing it often enough to be concerned that it might be true. So if you really want to help me, you can stay. But if this is just a scheme of yours to get closer to Laura, then you can leave now."

Almanzo stood there smiling, until Charles turned to face him. "And as for you Almanzo, I know you didn't come here this morning because you felt guilty about the accident."

"Well no Sir, but..."

"I don't want to hear another lame reason Almanzo, so if you're going to say something to me, it better be the truth."

Almanzo swallowed hard. He couldn't tell him that it was to protect Laura and her family from Perley Day, it would make him seem jealous. He stood straight up and looked Charles in the eye. "I'm sorry Mr. Ingalls, I can't tell ya."

"What do you mean?" Charles asked impatiently.

"I have my reasons, I just can't share them with ya."

"Well you better share them with me right now or you won't be allowed to come back here again."

Almanzo fiddled with the rim of his hat, which was in his hand. The thought of being kept away from Laura made it tempting to confess. He saw Perley Day out of the corner of his eye, smirking at him.

"I'm sorry Mr. Ingalls, I just can't tell ya. All I can assure you is that my intentions are honorable."

"I'm sorry Almanzo that's not good enough. Laura is still a young girl and too easily influenced. I want your word that you'll stay away from her."

Perley Day was sure his plan was going to work. He would win this battle against the perfect Almanzo, the one whom his parents always told him he should be more like. Manzo wouldn't stand a chance with Laura once Perley Day got done talking to her.

Almanzo looked down at his feet and then back up to Charles again. "I can't do that Mr. Ingalls. I would be lyin to ya if I said I would stay away from her. I havta know if she feels the same way about me that I do for her. If she doesn't then there's no reason for me to be here, but if she does...I'm gonna be back to ask your permission to court her. I hate to disagree with ya Mr. Ingalls, but Laura isn't a girl anymore, and I have feelins for her that I can't just ignore."

Charles looked at Almanzo and then at Perley Day. He knew Caroline had been right. Almanzo was clearly the better man. But he now realized the choice was never up to him. It was Laura's decision.

"All right Almanzo. I won't ask you to stay away from her, and for the time being I'll let this situation here continue. I can use the help. But it will be Laura who decides which of you she wants courting her, and I'll expect the other man to abide by her wishes."

Seeing the first ray of hope Almanzo smiled and shook Charles' hand. "You've got yourself a deal Mr. Ingalls."

Perley Day nodded and shook Charles' hand without enthusiasm. He knew his days at the Ingalls farm were numbered. Laura would never choose him over Manzo. Once again, Almanzo had won.

To be continued...

bride48 wrote:: As she took popcorn from the bowl, Caroline gazed searchingly at her husband. "I'm glad you left it up to Laura..." she began.

"I'm not sure I am." Charles replied.

"i know."

Caroline always knew, and right now the very fact that she knew so much about human nature troubled Charles. It meant she knew Almonzo was the best man for Laura, despite the difference in their ages. But after so many months of trying to discourage a relationship between his daughter and Almonzo, he couldn't just give in.

Suddenly, he remembered overhearing a conversation between Eliza Jane and Mrs. Foster while he was at the mill earlier that day.

"Caroline," he said, "do you think Laura's ready to take the teaching exam?"

"Well, yes, I suppose so..."

"Even if it meant taking a job outside Walnut Grove?"

______________
To be continued...

New Pioneer Number of posts : 119 Location : Germany

Amy wrote:: The next morning, Laura awoke with a queasy stomach. She couldn't believe the day of the teacher's exam had finally come! She'd studied faithfully, but admittedly, she was distracted by Almanzo's presence around the farm. It seemed like wherever she went, there he was. Why, yesterday, she decided to escape to the loft to find some peace and quiet from her brother and sisters, and felt compelled to drop what she was doing every time her Manly would come into the barn to grab a tool or something. She admired his physique, and she especially enjoyed observing him 'in motion'. She rolled her eyes at herself for being distracted so easily, and dilligently went back to her books. So here she was, this magical morning, saying a silent prayer that all her hard work would pay off. She would know by the end of the school day. She hurried to get dressed, and brushed out her long coppery hair, deciding to leave it down this day. She descended the ladder to join her family at the breakfast table, unsure if her stomach would allow her to eat a thing.

To Be Continued....

btw, glad you've joined in, DebbieLynne! ;)

LHDaisy wrote:: Laura had a hard time eating her breakfast, but because of her mother's concern she was able to get something into her stomach. All she wanted now was going to school and to take the exam.

After breakfast Charles hitched up the team to drive the children into town. When Laura, Albert and Carrie were about to step into the back of the wagen, Almanzo drove up the Ingalls place.

'Hi Mr. Ingalls!' he called out to Charles. 'Morning Almanzo, you're pretty early tomorrow'. Almanzo in the meanwhile got out his wagen and walked over to the Ingalls wagen. 'Well, sir, I wanted to speak to Laura. I mean she has her test today'. 'Oh' replied Charles. 'Well, go ahead'.

Laura gave her books and slate to Albert and walked towards Almanzo. 'Is it allright if we go over to the creek'. 'Sure!' replied a happy Laura.
Almanzo and Laura walked over to the creek and sat down in the grass.
'Well, Beth, today is the big day. How are you feeling?'. 'I'm feeling great' said Laura, she added in her thoughts 'now that you are here with me'.
'That's great. I bed you'll do just fine Beth.' 'I sure hope so'. Almanzo went with his hand into his pocket and pulled out a small rapped up present. 'I euh..I bought something for you, to wish you luck'. He gave the present over to Laura. Laura was so surprised and started to open it.

To be continued...

bethandmanly wrote:: The box was long and slender. After pulling down the flap on one end, a white enamel pen came sliding out.

Laura smiled up at Almanzo. "It's beautiful. Thanks Manly."

Manly chuckled nervously. "Well, I thought you might be needin a pen once ya pass that teacher's exam."

"I do hope I pass. I can't imagine I could be any more prepared than I am. I guess I should go," she said, disappointed at having to leave him. "I wouldn't want to be late." She turned to get into the wagon.

"Uh Beth..."

Laura looked back at him. He seemed even more nervous than he was when she opened his gift. "Yes Manly?"

"I was thinkin..." He felt Charles' eyes beating down at him. He swallowed hard.

"Yes?" she said prompting him.

"Well, I was wonderin if you would like to have supper with me tonight at Nellie's place?"

Trying to contain her excitement, she looked up at her father. Knowing she would have to do this just right to get Charles to approve of Almanzo she asked him, "Would that be all right with you Pa?"

Charles sighed. "You can go if you want to Laura."

She smiled, "Thanks Pa." Looking back at Almanzo she said, "I'd love to go."

Almanzo was noticeably pleased. "I'll be helpin your Pa out all day so we can go after I'm done here, if that's okay."

"Sure."

"I want her back no later than seven o'clock Almanzo."

Manly nodded. "Yes Sir."

"All right then, we best be off. Half-pint, get up in the wagon."

"Yes Sir," she replied, climbing in.

As the wagon pulled out of the front yard Almanzo waved. Laura waved back and smiled. How on earth would she be able to concentrate on her examination now?

To be continued...

LHDaisy wrote:: Charles arrived at the schoolhouse. Albert and Carrie got out the back of the wagon. Laura looked at the schoolhouse. She sure was beginning to feel nervous. She stepped out the back of the wagen. Charles walked over to her. 'You're nervous half-pint?' 'A little bit' Laura answerd. 'You're gonna do just fine' he said. 'I sure hope I will'. Charles gave Laura a hug. 'Well, I have to go'. 'Oke pa'. Charles walked back to his wagen and climbed up the seat. 'Bye Albert, Carrie' he called out to them. 'Bye pa!' He looked back to Laura, gave her a wink and said 'Good luck half-pint!' 'Thanks pa'.

Charles drove away from the school. He doesn't know what he should think. Does he want half-pint to pass the test?

Miss Wilder came outside to ring the schoolbell and the children grabbed their slates and books and walked inside. After everybody took their seat Miss Wilder began talking. 'Children, today Laura Ingalls is going to take her teaching exam, that is why this day will not be a regular schoolday. I want everyone to read and you will all have an extra half hour for lunch. I don't want you to speak to each other. Is that understood?' Yes Miss Wilder the class replied.' 'Good, then you may now start reading'.

As the children all opend their books and started reading, Miss Wilder grabbed the teacher test and walked over to Laura. 'Laura, it's now 9 o'clock. The test ends at 12 o'clock, so you'll have 3 hours to make the test.' She handed the test over to Laura. 'Good luck!' 'Thank you Miss Wilder'. As Miss Wilder walked back to her desk, Albert who was sitting in front of Laura turned around and whispered 'Good luck Laura!' 'Thanks Albert'. Albert smiled, turned back and continued with his reading.

Laura displayed the test out in front of her. This is it, she thought, all those weeks of studying and now the test was in front of her. I better get started, she thought.

New Pioneer Number of posts : 119 Location : Germany

bride48 wrote:: Laura sat across the table from Almanzo, excited both to be with him and to have passed the teaching exam. She didn't notice him picking nervously at his food. She was too busy thinking about being a teacher!

As she finished her chicken, she looked at him with sparkling eyes and announced, "And Pa heard about a temporary teaching job in Sleepy Eye! They need a teacher right away, and I can stay with the regular teacher while her broken leg heals! Isn't it exciting, Manly?"

Almanzo stared at her, finally understanding why Charles had suddenly decided to let her take the teaching exam. Charles wanted Laura away from both him AND Pearly Day!

"I could bring you home on weekends, Beth," he suggested.

"I'd like that, Manly."

(Continued)

Carol wrote:: Wow, I finally caught up in this story and I love it! Everyone had done a great job! [clap]
Okay… on w/ the story [read]

Laura felt very happy as she sat there having dinner with Almanzo. It had been an exciting day. First Almanzo had given her a beautiful pen which now she could actually use! Although she started out quite nervous at the beginning of the test, she remembered taking a deep breath and for a moment blocked out Almanzo from her mind.

She looked down at her bitten fingernails and smiled while she shook her head while she remembered how nervous she felt while she waited for her test to be graded. When Mrs. Wilder announced she had passed, she had screamed in delight and given her a big hug and a kiss on the cheek. All of her classmates had congratulated Laura. She was now a teacher!

She remembered running home and hugging her Ma and Pa.

“Almanzo said he will be here at 6 o’clock to pick you up Laura” her Ma had told her.

Laura felt like she was walking on air. Almanzo had come to pick her up and given her some beautiful flowers. It was the best day she had had in a long while, and now here she was, with the man she cared about sitting across from her.

“I sure am glad you will allow me to bring you home on the weekends Beth, the long ride with just the two of us should be nice” said Almanzo as he smiled.

They looked at each other for a moment. They both blushed, Almanzo looked down at his plate and Laura cleared her throat and drank some water. It was obvious they both shared the same feelings towards each other. It was a little scary for both of them but also very exciting.

Almanzo looked at the time and remembered Mr. Ingalls wanted Laura home by seven. He wanted to say on Mr. Ingalls’ good side. Things were going so good with Laura.

“Well Beth, thank you so much for dinner, we best be getting you home”, he said as he rose up.

“Thank you Almanzo… for everything”

As they walked out of the restaurant, they saw Perley Day carrying some flowers.

“Laura! I just wanted to stop by and congratulate you on the examination. I knew you could do it, and I also wanted to give you these” he said as he handed Laura the flowers and looked sideways at Almanzo.

“Wow, they’re beautiful, thank you Perley Day” said Laura as she smelled the flowers.

TO BE CONTINUED [dance]

bethandmanly wrote:: "Well I couldn't have ya goin all day without flowers after passin your test," Perley Day said with confidence.

"Oh, actually Almanzo brought me flowers earlier when he picked me up. But these are beautiful too."

"Beth, we best be gettin ya home. I wouldn't want your Pa sore at me after our first night out. Excuse us Perley Day," he said in a curt manner.

"Certainly big brother. Now Laura I hope you'll do me the pleasure of a night out soon too."

"I'll think about it. But Almanzo's right, I need to get home. Goodnight Perley Day."

Almanzo helped Laura up onto the wagon seat and then jumped up alongside. He smirked at his brother before tipping his cap. Perley Day ignored him and waved goodbye to Laura.

As they drove home, Laura began to get curious about the two Wilder brothers. "Are you going to tell me what all that was about in front of Nellie's?"

He glanced at her with a look of feigned confusion. "All what was about?" he replied.

"Almanzo Wilder, don't be coy with me. It's clear you and Perley Day are at odds with each other and I would like to know what it's all about."

Almanzo blushed. "Well, uh...ya know how brothers can be. We don't always see eye to eye on things."

"Really? Well, I thought I sensed a little jealousy from you when Perley Day brought me flowers."

"What do I havta be jealous about Beth?"

"I don't know." She smirked in his direction. "Why don't you tell me."

To be continued...

LHDaisy wrote:: Almanzo and Laura drove up to the Ingalls house and stopped in front of the door. Almanzo helped Laura off the wagen. 'Well Beth, I hope you had a nice evening'. 'I sure had Manly' she said. Both stared at each other eyes for a moment before Manly broke the silence, 'Goodnight Beth', 'Goodnight Manly'. Almanzo walked back to his wagon and climbed up, he turned around and waved at Laura. Laura waved back and stayed looking untill Almanzo was out of sight.

Laura turned around and opend the door. 'Hi ma, pa!' she said with a happy voice, when she saw her parents at the table. 'Hi Laura, how was your evening?' asked Caroline. 'It was the best ma! I'm going to tell you all about it!'. 'Good' replied Caroline with a smile. 'I'm glad Almanzo brought you home in time' said Charles. 'And I'm glad you had a nice night' he added. 'Thanks pa!'

'Did Almanzo give you flowers again?' asked Caroline surprised. 'Oh no, I got these from Perley Day, we met him in front of the Restaurant'. 'Well, how nice of him to give you flowers'. 'Yeah, it is' said Laura.

'I'm pretty tired right now, I think I'm going to bed'. 'Allright' said Caroline. Charles got up and walked over to Laura, 'Sleep tight Half-pint' he said and he gave her a kiss on the forehead. 'Thank pa, I will!'. 'Ma, would you like to come upstairs in a few minutes, I want to tell you about tonight'. 'Sure!'. 'You want me to come too Half-pint' said Charles with a grin. 'Pa!' said Laura with a big grin too. 'Well, go on' he said 'I know you can't wait to tell your ma'. Laura smiled, turned around and climbed up the ladder to the loft.

Charles walked back to sit at the table again. He had noticed how happy Laura had entered the house. But he also had noticed her difference. Laura was wearing the new dress, she picked out with Caroline at the mercantile today, as a present because she passed her teaching exam. She didn't wore her hair in pigtails when she went ut with Almanzo, but she had her hair in a knot. She looked more grown-up and Charles was more worried as ever, that his half-pint was going to chance and he would loose the 'little girl' he knew so well.

Caroline looked over to her husband, who was silent staring at the table. Caroline knew it had been a hard day for Charles, knowing Laura passed the teachers exam and had been asked out by Almanzo. She knew he was worried about the whole situation. After a few minute, Caroline broke the silence. 'Well, I best get up to talk to Laura now'. Charles looked up quick, 'oh yeah' he said with a smile. Both looked each other in the eyes, both knowing their thoughts. Then Caroline climbed up the ladder, she couldn't help but being curious hearing about the evening Laura had.

The be continued...

New Pioneer Number of posts : 119 Location : Germany

bride48 wrote:: After church on Sunday, Charles drove Laura to Sleepy Eye, where she would teach until Mrs. Primm (the current teacher) fully recovered from her broken leg. She would board with Mrs. Primm during the week, and on Fridays Manly would bring her home.

Mrs. Primm greeted Laura warmly. "I'm eager to tell you all about the childen," she said with a gentle smile.

"In that case, I'd best leave you two teachers alone," interjected Charles. He kissed his Half-Pint gently, and then turned to go. "See that Almanzo brings you straight home Friday."

"I will, Pa!" Laura agreed with her grateful grin.

As Charles drove back to Walnut Grove, he felt relieved. At last, Half-Pint was away from both Wilder brothers. He wondered how eagerly they would help him with the farm now. And he hoped Laura's love for teaching would eclipse her interest in Almanzo.

Amy wrote:: Although Laura had awaken with butterflies in her stomach on Monday morning, she soon discovered she had nothing to be nervous about. At first the children were apprehensive. After all, she was only slightly older than some of them, and several were even the same age! It was quite a shock from what they were used to, Mrs. Primm being well into her sixties. Laura immediately discovered a part of herself that had been buried within...the fulfillment in the deepest part of her soul that could only come from teaching. Within her first few days of teaching in this unfamiliar territory, she hadn't a doubt that she was doing what she was born to do. The children warmed up to her, and she could feel her heart quicken when she witnessed their eyes light up with a new thought or idea. By Friday, she already was bonded to these children, although there was one...Chad Brewster, a boy of about her age, that challenged her more than any other. He hadn't quite accepted her as his superior, and although she could tell he was bright, he seemed to have problems with self-esteem. She vowed that she would make a special effort to concentrate on him. Although the week passed quickly, she still found time to miss her family. More than anyone though, she missed Almanzo. As she rang the school bell, she saw a horse and buggy making its way across the prairie. Her heart raced and she felt a blush grow on her cheeks. It was him.

To Be Continued...

bride48 wrote:: "It's not like you to be so quiet, Beth."

Laura grinned at Almanzo's remark. She remembered the past year, his first year in Walnut Grove. He'd seen her as a little girl all those months, so she would chatter away, trying to attract his attention. Now she not only had his attention, but that of his younger brother. Indeed, the change was breathtaking! But of course, she couldn't tell him that. Instead, she responded, "I guess I'm still getting used to being a grown up, Manly."

She thought back to earlier days, when Mary could still see. Mary had all the beaus, or so Laura had thought. She'd confessed one night that she thought Mary had everything. Now here Laura was, with two Wilder brothers vying for her attention. Funny how life happens.

CONTINUED

Amy wrote:: "Are you ready to get goin', Beth?" Almanzo asked, as Laura gathered her books and papers off the desk. She had this nagging feeling that she was forgetting something. "Just about", she replied, as she glanced around the room for the tenth time. "Laura, you've looked over the room a hundred times! What is it you're lookin' for?" Laura rolled her eyes and agreed, "I know! I just feel like there's something I've forgotten." Almanzo walked over to her, took her shoulders and faced her to him. "Laura, you'll be back here on Monday. Whatever it is, it'll be here then. Come on, tell me what's botherin' ya. I can tell you're not yourself cause you've been quiet since I got here." Laura blushed. She couldn't tell him that the reason was quite simply because the way he looked at her was making it too difficult for her to put a coherent sentence together. "Nothing Manly. Honestly. It's just been a stressful week. You're right, the room will keep until I get back. I have everything that I need for the weekend, so let's go!" As she turned to move away from him, he stopped her and looked at her quizzically. "Why do you seem so much taller?", he asked, perplexed at the fact that she stood as tall as his shoulder now. "Oh", Laura smiled awkardly and looked down. She poked one of her feet out from under her skirt. "I decided I needed some boots more fitting for a teacher" she replied, terribly embarrassed. She wouldn't meet his gaze. He lifted her chin, looked deep into her eyes and said, "I think they suit ya just fine." She braced herself as Manly leaned in. Her heart stopped, and yet it was racing at the same time. She was sure he was close enough to hear it now. She closed her eyes and waited. She turned her face up, and felt the lips of her beloved on hers for the first time. It was a short, sweet kiss, and she knew Almanzo didn't want to frighten her. She kept her eyes closed, relishing the warmth that remained on her lips. When her eyes slowly opened, she saw those deep blue oceans looking lovingly back at her. Almanzo smiled, and took her hand to leave the school-house. They walked to the buggy silently, both looking forward to sitting closely together during the long ride home.

TO BE CONTINUED....

bethandmanly wrote:: When they reached the Ingalls farm it was hard to say goodbye. Almanzo wondered to himself if he should kiss her again, but then Albert came flying out the door.

"Ma! Pa! Laura's back!" he yelled into the house.

Everyone came running out to greet them and thoughts of romance were put aside. Almanzo helped Laura out of the buggy while Albert grabbed her bag. Laura rattled off the events of her first week of teaching in the span of two minutes while Manly stood there hoping he might be invited in to supper. As Laura and her family walked towards the front door Manly called out to her.

"Beth?" She turned around. "I'll pick you up at three o'clock on Sunday."

"Okay Manly. I'll see you then."

They stepped inside and Almanzo was left staring at the closed door. He wondered if the kiss wasn't as important to Beth as it was to him. She didn't even seem to notice him once they got to her folks' house. Maybe he was just kidding himself when he thought he felt an eager response to his kiss. Maybe it was Perley Day she was interested in after all.

Almanzo thought about these things on the drive home. The light drizzle that began to fall dampened his mood. When he reached home he unhitched the team and pulled them into the barn, all the while hoping he had not ruined his chances with Beth.

To be continued...

New Pioneer Number of posts : 119 Location : Germany

Rana wrote:: May I hop in?

It was deep at night, but Charles couldn’t get off to sleep.
Beside all the joy at Laura’s homecoming he satisfied had noticed, she had barely a look for Almanzo, when she came over from his wagon. He already thought, his plan to take his daughter's mind off this man would have worked. But later this evening he found Laura daydreaming in front of the house, staring over the prairie just in direction of the Wilder’s place and with a gently smile on her face.

He breathed a sigh…

Next please...

bethandmanly wrote:: It's great to see some new writers here. I thought I would provide everyone with a synopsis of what has happened so far so that the storyline remains consistent.

The story takes place in Season 6. Almanzo and Eliza Jane Wilder come to Walnut Grove and Miss Wilder takes over as the new teacher. Laura is instantly attracted to her brother. Laura hopes to begin to study for her teacher's exam so that Almanzo and her Pa will see her as a woman.

Caroline and Charles talk about the rapid changes in Laura and Charles expresses concern over Almanzo Wilder. Charles ilicits the help of Albert to keep an eye on Laura. Manly is blissfully unaware of Beth's attraction to him and continues to nurture their friendship.

Charles, who is sick and tired of hearing about Almanzo all the time decides he needs a plan to get Laura's mind off Manly. Perley Day Wilder, Almanzo and Eliza Jane's younger brother shows up in Walnut Grove and Charles thinks he has found a way to refocus Laura's attention.

Laura and Perley Day ride into town together with Barnum to visit the blacksmith. Laura thinks Perley Day is attracted to her and that he also figures she has a crush on Almanzo. When Manly keeps referring to her as a girl, an angry Laura invites Perley Day to supper. The younger Wilder drives wrecklessly and the buggy tips over, pining Laura beneath it. Now scared over what his brother will do Perley Day says he is going for help, but instead he goes off to think about how he can prevent Almanzo from whalloping him.

Almanzo stumbles upon Laura and the overturned buggy and races to get Doc Baker. Laura suffers a broken leg. Almanzo confronts Perley Day and forces him to explain. Charles and Laura are both mad at the younger Wilder boy and he thinks it might be a good idea for him to leave Walnut Grove. Almanzo who feels responsible for Perley Day's actions offers his help to Charles who rejects it. He forbids Laura to go over to the Wilder's place again.

Albert tells Laura he will help her find a way to get Charles to change his mind. Miss Wilder shows up at the Ingalls farm and asks Laura if she would like the books to study for the teaching exam. Albert tells Laura it was his idea, and a thankful Laura expresses her gratitude.

Laura's injuries continue to heal, but she is distraught to find out Manly still sees her as a girl. It makes her study even harder. Later at the Wilder farm, Perley Day asks Almanzo what he thinks of him going to see Charles and offer to work for him to make up for what happened to Laura. Perley Day insists she is more mature than Almanzo gives her credit for, which makes Almanzo start to think about Laura in a different way.

Charles agrees to let Perley Day work on his farm as long as Laura is fine with it. She knows how much Pa needs the help and so she agrees. The next morning Almanzo drives Perley Day to the Ingalls farm and then drives Laura, Albert and Carrie to school. Almanzo's feelings begin to deepen.

Charles still has hopes that Laura will refocus her attention on Perley Day. He likes the hard work the young man is doing and sees that he is remorseful for what happened to his daugther. Almanzo asks Charles' permission to court Laura, but Charles refuses to give it, saying he wants to see how things with Perley Day work out first. That night at the Wilder place the two brothers fight over Laura. Almanzo is concerned Perley Day is hatching another one of his schemes which could hurt her and her family. Perley Day tells Almanzo that he had his chance with Laura, but he didn't take it. The next morning, Caroline and Laura have a heart to heart about Perley Day and both express concern about his motives. They talk about Almanzo's strange behavior and Caroline tells Laura he might be seeing her differently.

Almanzo asks Charles if he can also help out at his farm, using the excuse that he feels responsible for what happened. Even though Charles is hesitant, he agrees. Almanzo is thrilled to have the chance to keep an eye on Perley Day. The younger Wilder tells Almanzo that his plan won't work, but Almanzo is optimistic after he finds out Caroline is on his side.

A conversation with Mrs. Oleson in town gets Charles to thinking about the two Wilder brothers and he decides he better talk with both of them to make sure Laura doesn't get hurt. As he talks to them, his feelings towards Almanzo begin to change. He tells them that it is up to Laura to decide who she wants to be with and that he expects the other man to abide by her wishes.

The morning of her teaching exam Almanzo gives Laura a gift and asks Laura if she would like to have supper with him at Nellie's. With her pa's permission, she agrees. Laura passes the exam and makes plans to take a temporary teaching position in Sleepy Eye.

Almanzo and Laura are outside after supper when Perley Day approaches and gives Laura flowers. She notices the tension between the two of them and when they start the drive home she questions Almanzo about it. When Laura gets home, Charles starts to feel like he is going to lose his little half-pint.

Laura goes to Sleepy Eye and begins teaching. She misses her family and friends, but Almanzo most of all. He shows up on Friday to bring her home. They share their first kiss. When they get to the Ingalls place, Laura is anxious to see her family again, and Almanzo wonders if she is truly interested in him. As he drives home, he hopes he hasn't ruined his chances with Beth.

bethandmanly wrote:: Laura joined her family on Sunday morning for church. She took an especially long time getting ready, knowing she would see Almanzo there.

Albert chuckled. "I hope Manly will be paying more attention to Reverend Alden's sermon than to what you look like Laura."

She frowned at him. "There will time before and after church for him to look my way Albert." She straightened the straw hat on her head and headed down the ladder to the kitchen.

"Oh you look beautiful this morning Laura," said Caroline.

She smiled. "Thanks Ma."

Charles looked at Laura in dismay. His Half-pint was no longer a little girl. It was hard to see Almanzo taking such a special place in her heart, his place.

"What do you think Pa?" Laura repeated when he didn't respond the first time.

"I think I'm looking at a lovely young woman."

Laura ran to embrace him. "I love you Pa."

"I love you too Half-pint."

The family made their way into town. Laura saw that Almanzo's buggy was already in front of the church. When the Ingalls family made their way in, she searched for him. Their eyes met and she reluctantly took her a seat next to her siblings. Perley Day, who was standing next to his sister knew his chances with Laura were all but gone, and he began to think of moving on.

After service Almanzo stopped by to say hello to Laura and her family. The young couple excused themselves and walked over to the swing in the schoolyard.

Charles looked at them wistfully knowing how this was going to end up. He felt Caroline's gentle touch on his shoulder.

"She chose a good man," she reassured him.

"I know but..." He couldn't finish his sentence.

"But it's hard to know our lives are about to change again, isn't it?"

Charles nodded, fighting to hold back the tears.

To be continued...

LHDaisy wrote:: Laura went over to sit on the swing. Almanzo stand next to the swing holding the robe in his hand.

'It sure was a nice sermon from Rev. Alden' said Almanzo. 'Yes it sure was' replied Laura.

'It's nice to have you back in Walnut Grove in the weekends Beth'. 'I'm glad to be here Manly. It's hard not being with my family for the whole week.'

'Yeah, I bed you miss them while you are up in Sleepy Eye' (was it?) 'I sure do. And I miss you too' said Laura while looking in Almanzo's blue eyes. 'And I miss you' answerd Almanzo with a crucked smile. They both stared each other in the eyes for a few seconds. 'Well, we better get back. I think your folks want to return home'. 'Yeah' replied Laura, who didn't want this moment to end. 'I'll pick you up at 3?'. 'That will be fine' said Laura with a smile.

Both walked back to the wagens. Almanzo helped Eliza Jane, who had been chatting with Caroline, into his buggy. Perley-Day already left for home she said.

Laura climed in the back of the wagen. See saw her brother's smiling grin. 'You ready Half-Pint?' asked Charles. 'Yeah pa' she replied. 'Ok then' said he while he started to drive the wagen. Laura waved at Almanzo, who waved back and gave her a wink. Then he also drove of with his sister to their house.

To be continued...

New Pioneer Number of posts : 119 Location : Germany

bethandmanly wrote:: When Almanzo and Eliza Jane arrived back at the house they found Perley Day sitting on the porch steps with his backpack. Eliza Jane climbed out of the wagon and approached him.

"What's this Perley Day?" she asked.

"It's time I was movin on Sis."

"But why? You seemed to like Walnut Grove. I...I thought you might consider staying permanently."

"Ya already know that ain't for me Sis. I'm a travelin man." He glared over at Almanzo who had just joined them. "Besides, I don't have no reason to stay anymore."

Eliza Jane glanced over at Almanzo with a puzzled look on her face. "Do you know what he's talking about?"

"Yeah, I know. He means he thinks I've come between him and Laura Ingalls." Turning to Perley Day he continued. "Fact is Perley Day, ya never stood a chance with her."

"I don't see it that way Big Brother."

"I know ya don't, but it's true just the same. Beth is a smart young lady, she would have seen through your scheme eventually, even if Mr. Ingalls didn't."

"What scheme?" asked Eliza Jane even more confused.

"Perley Day has been tryin to come between Beth and me ever since he figured out I sweet on her. He only did it because he hates me. He never really cared for her."

"Almanzo Jame Wilder, how can you say such a thing!" screamed Eliza Jane.

"It's true," admitted Perley Day. Eliza Jane's eyes grew wide. "Almanzo was Father's favorite. He never did anythin wrong. All my life Father kept askin me, 'Why can't you be more like Manzo?' Well I didn't want to be like Manzo; I wanted to be me." Tears streamin down his face Perley Day let the angry words tumble out of his mouth. "But that wasn't good enough for Father. I had to work twice as hard as Manzo just to get him to pay me any mind. Yeah I broke Mother's heart when I left," he said looking at Almanzo, "but at least I was my own man, set my own rules. I'm never gonna go back to livin under his roof."

For the first time Almanzo felt sorry for his younger brother. He had always seen him as selfish. Those jealousies reminded him of how he felt about his older brother, Royal when they were growing up.

"I'm sorry ya felt that way Perley Day. I never knew. I just thought ya were thinkin of nobody but yourself."

Perley Day had wiped away his tears. He stood there staring down at the ground, moving the dirt around with his left boot. Almanzo put a hand on his shoulder.

"I hope you'll think of stayin on here. I think we have some catchin up to do."

To be continued...

LHDaisy wrote:: Perley-Day still stared down at the ground. 'I don't know Manzo' he said quietly. 'I've already been here for a couple of weeks and there is nothing to do for me here anymore'.

'You could help me with the farm' suggested Almanzo. 'Just so long you want. I don't want to push you into anything you don't want to do'.
Perley-Day looked at his older brother. He didn't know what to say. Would he stay and catch things up with his brother and sister or should he be on the road again and see where it would take him.

'Please stay some longer Perley-Day' asked Eliza-Jane. Perley-Day now looked at his sister and smiled, then he faced Almanzo. 'Ok, big brother, I will stay, but I don't know for how long'.

'That's great Perley-Day' responded Almanzo why he placed his hand on his younger brother's shoulder. 'Then we better all get inside and have lunch'.

The three of them walked into the house.

To be continued...

bethandmanly wrote:: The three Wilder siblings had an interesting and informative lunch. The barriers began to come down between Almanzo and Perley Day, but no one could say they were the best of friends just yet. After they finished Almanzo got up and grabbed his hat.

"Where are you going?" Eliza Jane asked.

"Over to the Ingalls place," he replied.

"But I thought you told Laura you would pick her up at three?"

"I did, but I wanna talk to Mr. Ingalls first."

Eliza Jane glanced over at Perley Day who was looking into his feet. "Are you all right Perley Day?"

"Huh, oh yeah I'm fine. I guess since Manzo's gonna be gone I should go tend the stock." He walked out and headed towards the barn.

"Did you have to make him feel bad?" Eliza Jane scolded Almanzo.

"You're the one who asked where I was goin."

"I know. I'm sorry, it's just that I'm worried about him. I really think he liked Laura."

"I don't think he cared for her at all."

"How can you even suggest such a thing?"

"Because he told me that he was tryin to get in between me and Beth. Course that was before the two of us started courtin."

"I thought you said you were going to give him another chance."

"I am, but it don't mean I'm gonna forget his past. Who knows if his stayin on here ain't part of some new scheme he's got brewin." Almanzo plopped the hat on his head. "I gotta get goin Sis. I'll be late tonight. Don't wait up."

To be continued...

LHDaisy wrote:: Perley-Day made his way over to the barn. While getting the feed for the lifestock he saw Almanzo climb into his buggy and driving away from the house.

'Howdy Barnum' he said while giving the horse fresh water and hay. 'I see Manzo is giving you some rest today'.

'Perley-Day'.

Perley -Day turned around and saw his sister in the opening of the barn.

'Hi Sis. What is the matter?' asked Perley-Day.

'I would like to speak to you Perley-Day' she replied.

'Sure, about what?'

'I'll tell you insight the house' she said.

Perley-Day confused by his sisters behaviour walked after her towards the house.

Inside the house, they took place at the chairs in front of the fireplace.

'So sis, what do you wanna talk about?' asked Perley-Day who was getting curious.

Eliza Jane looked at her brother. 'Why did you leave home Perley-Day and why don't you never let anything hear from you? We never know if you are allright or were you are.

Perley-Day didn't expect a question like that. He looked at Eliza and saw a kind of angry and dissapointed look in her eyes. He then stared into the fire before saying anything.

To be continued...

(I hope we can come up with an answer for this, lol)

New Pioneer Number of posts : 119 Location : Germany

bethandmanly wrote:: "I told ya Sis, I didn't like bein compared to Manzo all the time."

"So you left home, but why don't you keep in touch with any of us; let us know how you are and where you are? The whole family worries over you. The letters I get from Mother are filled with anxious thoughts about what could have happened to you. She doesn't deserve that."

Perley Day shook his head. "I know she don't, but Father...Father is never gonna change. I ain't ever gonna be good enough for him. I'd rather not tell um what I'm up to than have him talking me down for what I'm doin."

"And what are you doing Perley Day?"

"Right now I'm figurin out where I'm gonna move to next. Before I came here I was in Illinois, and before that I spent some time in Indiana."

"How do you get by?"

"Workin, stealin, gamblin, whatever gets me money."

"You weren't brought up like that Perley Day. I can't believe you would steal or gamble."

"It's true Eliza Jane. I'd rather do that than starve."

"So live here, with us. You'll have a roof over your head and plenty of food. I'm sure you could find a job."

"Sis, I don't want to be where he is."

"He?"

"Manzo. I ain't livin in his shadow any more. I'm gonna be my own man."

*

Almanzo pulled his buggy to a stop in front of the Ingalls barn. He stepped out and greeted Charles.

"Afternoon Mr. Ingalls."

"Afternoon Almanzo. A bit early aren't you?"

"Yes sir," he said, taking off his hat. "I was wonderin if I could talk to ya about a personal matter."

"Sure, what's on your mind son."

To be continued...

Amy wrote:: "Well sir, I was thinkin', " Amanzo took his hat off, preparing his question to Charles.

"Well, out with it son. What do you want to ask me?" Charles said impatiently, worried that he wasn't prepared for this question.

Almanzo sensed that Charles might be bracing himself for something more serious, so he decided to put his mind at ease. "Laura informed me that the woman that she's stayin' with needs some help around her place. Apparantly, the man who's been helpin' her got hurt last week. I found someone to cover for me at my job here for the next week...I figured that'll save me the trip back out to get Laura, and I'd be helpin' a person in need at the same time."

Charles, relieved that Almanzo was not yet asking permission to marry his daughter, looked at the young man quizically. "Almanzo, why are you asking me about this?"

Almanzo, shuffling his feet nervously, replied "Well sir, I'd be stayin' at the house for a week...I wasn't sure how you'd feel about that. This is a house in town...she doesn't have a barn for me to sleep in. You know my intentions are honorable, sir, and I'd be sleepin' on the couch downstairs."

Charles appreciated Almanzo's honesty, and truly knew in his heart that he could trust this young man. It was hard losing Laura, but he knew that Almanzo Wilder would never hurt his Half Pint. "That'll be fine, Almanzo. I know you're an honorable man, and I trust ya."

Almanzo stared at this man he hoped to one day call his father-in-law. He was in shock that Charles was so accepting of the idea of Laura being alone at night in the same house with him. 'Maybe I'm actually getting somewhere', he thought to himself.

"Thank ya so much, Mr. Ingalls. You have no idea how much your approval means to me."

At that moment Laura came running out of the house, happy to see her two favorite men shaking hands and smiling at one another.

Oh my gosh, I just noticed that it's been exactly two months today since I've written an entry! [shocked] Ah, it's good to be back! :thumbup: )

bethandmanly wrote:: Almanzo and Laura sat together in the swing on Miss Primm's front porch. Manly had spent the last few hours of daylight beginning repairs on her fence and then they all sat down to a filling supper which Laura prepared.

"It's nice to have you here with me, Manly."

"Well I felt I should help out, and gettin to see you all week sure beats missin ya back in Walnut Grove." Laura smiled. "I was surprized your pa approved."

"Pa's not unreasonable, you know. He just wants what's best for me."

"I know, but there was a time he wouldn't even let me near ya."

"Well he did think you were an old man compared to me."

They laughed together and Almanzo reached over to grasp Laura's hand in his.

*

Perley-Day sat up in his bed, unable to sleep. His conversation with Eliza Jane was still in his thoughts. Maybe she was right; going back to Spring Valley to his parent's farm might be the best thing for him. But the thought of being under his father's thumb again turned his stomach. Oh how he loathed being compared to Almanzo. He grew up hating his older brother, resenting how close Almanzo was with their father. He had never known what it was like to make his father proud. He wondered if that might change now that Almanzo lived on his own.

To be continued...

Rana wrote:: "Dagburnit!" yelled Perley Day. The cow, not used to be touched by a strange hand, had kicked after Perley Day.
'What am I doin' here?' he thought furiously. This was Almanzo's cow, this was his farm and this were his morning chores. Why had he, Perley Day, to do all the work alone and why had he to play the punchingball for his brother's mulish cow? Wasn't it all because "always perfect" Almanzo preferred to have a nice time with his sweetheart-girlie in Sleepy Eye?

Perley Day's eyes flashed with rage, when he glanced at the cow. Again all the things passed through his mind, which already broke his sleep last night:
How would their Dad think about his sons, if he would know about Almanzo had left the farm and his sister in the lurch, while he amused himself with a girl, who was so many years his junior?
What would he think, if he would know that he, Perley Day, was the only one to deal with his brother's farm and to take care for Eliza Jane?

"Yeah, what if he would know all this…" he mumbled to himself, and the grin at his face didn't bode well…

To be continued

I'm somehow afraid, I was messing around with the english grammar. If you like, feel free to put the things straight. ;)

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