Summary: As Joe and Alice prepare for the arrival of their first child, their happiness is short-lived when the sinister Damion unexpectedly returns with a vengeance. This is a WHI story based on the two-part episode, Forever.

Rating: PG

Word Count: 13,861

Forever Reimagined series: 

Book 1: Vengeance is Mine (By MelissaR1992)

Book 2: No More Promises (By MelissaR1992)

Book 3: The Second Honeymoon (By MelissaR1992)

Book 4: Remember Me (By MelissaR1992)

Book 5: Once In A Lifetime (By MelissaR1992)

Book 6: The Most Precious Gift of All (By MelissaR1992)

Book 7: To Love, Honor, and Cherish (By MelissaR1992)

Book 8:  Trapped (by MelissaR1992)

Book 9:  Amelia, My Love (by MelissaR1992)

Chapter One 

Joe Cartwright met and fell in love with a girl named Alice Harper. They were married and happily living in a house on the Ponderosa that Joe had built for them. Alice had given Joe the news that they were expecting a baby and Joe was overjoyed. He got started on building the nursery right away.

However, Alice’s brother, John, owed money to a sinister man named Damion. John told him he could get the money from his sister’s husband whose father owned a big spread.

When Damion and some strangers unexpectedly arrived at Joe and Alice’s house, he demanded payment from her. But Joe wasn’t home. He’d gone to the Ponderosa to get more lumber needed for the nursery.

One of Damion’s men found a music box that had belonged to Joe’s mother. Joe had given it to Alice as a wedding present. Damion wanted to take the music box as payment, but Alice refused. 

Damion threatened Alice and John got himself killed trying to protect his sister. Alice stood there in shock as she looked down at her brother’s lifeless body, her hands gripped tightly around the music box.

Damion stared at her with cold, dead eyes and said, “The box, Mrs. Cartwright.”

Alice knew she didn’t have a choice. Her eyes filled with tears as she pushed the music box towards Damion and screamed, “Here! Take it and get out!”

Damion’s lips formed a sinister smile and took the music box from her.

“I knew you would come to your senses.” He looked down at John’s dead body and remarked, “It’s a shame your brother couldn’t. No hard feelings I hope.”

Alice hung her head and said to him through her tears, “Please. Get out.”

Damion signaled to his henchman, Hanley, and they headed to the door. Damion stopped in the doorway as he turned to her and said, “It was a pleasure, Mrs. Cartwright.” He walked out the door.

Alice closed her eyes as she broke down crying.

Damion’s brother, Clyde waited outside near the house keeping watch when he heard his brother shout, “Let’s go!”

Damion, along with his henchmen, mounted their horses. 

Clyde, who was already on his horse, asked, “Where’s Harper? Did you get the money?”

“Never mind, we have to move. Quickly.”

Damion got his horse moving and started down the pasture with his henchmen following behind. Clyde sensed something was off by his brother’s evasiveness. Determined to get answers, Clyde kicked his horse to follow his brother. 

Clyde caught up to his brother and steered his horse in front of him. Damion pulled back on the reins and his horse whinnied as it reared. Damion asked in a stern tone, “What is the meaning of this?” 

“What happened with Harper?” Clyde asked. 

“That doesn’t matter. We got our payment,” Damion replied.

Clyde asked, “Did you kill Harper?”

Damion stared at him and paused before he answered, “Yes.”

Clyde looked over at Hanley and knew who had actually killed him since Hanley was the one who usually did all his brother’s dirty work. Clyde asked, “And the sister?” 

“She is of no concern to us now,” Damion told him.

Clyde said in disbelief, “Damion, if you left the sister alive, that makes her a witness.”

Damion responded, “There was no need for anymore bloodshed. Harper paid for his sins against us.”

“Yeah, well, suppose she tells her husband what happened. He’ll get the sheriff and we’ll soon have a posse after us,” Clyde told him.

Damion tried to keep his temper under control. He responded, “That won’t happen. By the time Mr. Cartwright notifies the sheriff, we’ll be halfway to San Francisco. Now it’s best we get out of here before Mr. Cartwright returns home.” He shouted to the others, “Let’s go!” Damion got moving again along with his henchmen.

Clyde never could deal with his older brother. They were half-brothers who had very little in common except the same father. After their parents died, all they had left was each other, so they’d learned to deal with their differences of opinions. Clyde on the other hand began to wonder if the wrong brother was in charge. 

Clyde kicked his horse and followed after his brother. 

***

Later that evening, Joe returned home with Candy and Jamie. Joe heard Alice crying.

His smile faded as he saw Alice on the floor on her knees, crying over John’s body.

“Alice?” He quickly went over to her. Joe bent down and gently took her face in his hands. 

“Alice, what happened?”

“Oh, Joe.” Her head fell on his shoulder. 

Joe wrapped his arm around her and tried to calm her down. “Shh, it’s all right, just tell me what happened.”

Alice lifted her head and tried to compose herself as she told him, “A man named Damion came by. John owed him money. He demanded payment for John’s debt. One of the men that was with him found your mother’s music box with the diamond necklace that you had given me, and he wanted that as payment. But, I wouldn’t give it to him. And then he….”

Joe moved his hand up to her face as he asked her, “Did he hurt you?”

Alice shook her head. “He tried to, but John….he tried to stop him. He was shot and now he’s….Oh, Joe.”

Joe said, “Candy, Jamie, I need you to check outside, see if any of them are still out there.”

“Right,” said Candy. He hurried out the door with Jamie.

Alice said, “I’m so sorry, Joe.”

Joe looked at her in puzzlement and asked, “For what?”

“I didn’t have any choice. I had to give it to him or he would have….”

Joe took her face in his hands. “Alice, honey, I don’t care about that as long as you’re all right. Okay?” She nodded and he kissed her forehead.

Candy and Jamie returned. Candy said, “There’s nobody out there.”

“Are you sure?” Joe asked.

Jamie nodded. “Yeah, we looked everywhere. Whoever they were, they’re gone now.”

“They might have left a trail we can follow,” Joe said.

“Maybe,” Candy said, “but it’s gonna be dark soon. There’s no sense looking for them in the dark. It’d be like looking for a needle in a haystack.”

Jamie said, “He’s right. We don’t even know what they look like or where they even headed off to.” 

Joe raised his voice. “We can’t just let them get away with murder.”

“I know, but it’s best to let the sheriff handle it. Alice can give him a description since she’s the only person who got a good look at them,” Candy responded.

Joe calmed himself. “All right. I’ll see Clem in the morning. I’m gonna take Alice over to Pa’s. Candy, can you ride into town and get the doc?” 

“Sure.” 

Alice sighed, “Joe, I’m fine. I told you they never laid a hand on me. There’s really no need to….”

“I know,” Joe said, “but I’m still gonna have him take a look at you anyway. I want to make sure the baby’s all right.”

Candy asked, “What do we do with the….” He motioned his head towards John’s body.

“Take him out of here for now and we’ll give him a proper burial later,” Joe responded.

“All right,” Candy said.

Joe helped Alice up. “Come on.” He wrapped his arm around her waist as they walked out of the house while Candy and Jamie took John’s body out of there.

Chapter Two 

Later that night, Joe paced back and forth in the hallway of the Ponderosa near his old bedroom, worried for his wife. He felt guilty for leaving her by herself while she’d faced those men alone. 

Doc Martin came out of the room. Joe asked him, “Is she all right?”

Doc Martin gave a small smile as he replied, “She’s just a little shaken up right now which is understandable considering what happened. I gave her a sedative to help her sleep.”

Joe asked him with a bit of hesitation in his voice, “What about the baby?”

“The baby is alright. A strong heartbeat. She’s about three months along.” Joe sighed in relief. Doc Martin said, “She’s asleep now and will be for hours.”

Joe said, “Thank you. I’ll walk you out.”

Joe headed down the stairs with Doc Martin. When they reached the living room, Joe was surprised to see his brother, Adam sitting on the corner of their father’s desk. It had been a few years since Joe had seen his brother. Adam only made occasional visits since he’d left the Ponderosa. 

“Well, how is she?” Ben asked Doc Martin. 

“She’s just fine. She’s resting now.”

“That’s good to hear,” Ben said. He then turned and held his hand out towards Adam. “Uh, you remember my son, Adam, don’t you?”

Doc Martin looked at Adam and smiled. “Oh, yes, it’s been a while.” He held out his hand to him.

“Yes, it has. It’s good to see you again, doctor,” Adam said.

“Well, I better get to my other patients, I have more rounds to make this evening.”

“Of course,” Ben said. Ben opened the door for him and Doc Martin walked out.

Adam looked over at Joe and said, “Hello little brother.”

Joe smiled. “Adam.” Joe came up to him and embraced him. “It’s good to see you.”

“It’s good to see you too,” Adam said.

Adam was a little taken aback by Joe’s appearance. He was no longer the kid brother he’d known. In his place stood a man. Joe had matured; his curly, dark hair was much longer and a lot grayer, his body was much bigger and muscular in tone. There was no doubt Joe could beat him one on one in a fight. 

Joe asked, “What are you doing here?”

Adam took a seat on the armrest of the chair nearest him as he said, “I had some business in Virginia City and thought I’d stop by. I heard you got married, congratulations.” 

“Thanks. She’s a great girl, you’ll really like her. I’ve never been happier,” Joe told him.

Adam said, “I’m sure I will. Pa told me a little about her. He also told me what happened earlier this afternoon. I’m sorry.”

“Yeah.” Joe let out a sigh and said with guilt in his voice, “I never should have left her alone.” 

Ben said, “Joe, you couldn’t have known what would happen. You can’t blame yourself.”

Joe said, “After what she’s been through, I think it might be best if I got her away for a little while after we give her brother a proper burial.” 

“That’s a good idea,” Ben said. “We’ll report it to Clem tomorrow. 

Joe smiled. “Thanks.”

Adam folded his arms and said with a slight tilt of his head, “You know, Joe, it’s hard to imagine you a father.”

Joe chuckled. “I know. I still can’t get over it. I can hardly sleep at night thinking about it.”

“Well, we better hope for our sake, the child takes after the mother more than the father,” Adam remarked.

“Thanks a lot,” Joe said. 

Adam got up. “I should probably get going. It’s a long ride back to Boston.”

Ben suggested, “Why don’t you spend the night here? This is still your home after all.”

“Yeah. It’ll be like old times,” Joe said.

Adam thought about it and relented. “All right.”

Ben patted his shoulder. “Good. Say, when are we ever gonna meet that lovely bride of yours?”

“Well, it might be a little while because well, you see, I’m not sure if this is the right time to tell you.”

Ben and Joe looked at him with curiosity as Ben asked, “Tell me what?”

Adam revealed, “Well, it looks like Joe is not the only one who will be giving you a grandchild.”

Ben and Joe exchanged glances as their faces lit up.

Joe asked, “You mean…?” 

“Mm-hm. Emily and I are gonna have a baby of our own.”

“Hey, that’s great!” Joe said as he gave Adam a slap on the shoulder.

“That’s wonderful news, son. I couldn’t be happier for you,” Ben said.

“Thanks, Pa.”

Ben shook his head. “My boys, all grown up and married, starting families of their own. It’s hard to believe.”

“Hey, it’s not too late for you, Pa,” Joe said.

Ben chuckled.

“He’s right, Pa,” said Adam.

Joe added, “I bet there are plenty of women out there who would love to be the next Mrs. Ben Cartwright.”

“Mm-hm,” Adam said.

“I’m afraid that ship sailed a long time ago,” Ben responded.

“Never say never, Pa,” Adam said, smirking.

Ben said, “Alright, alright, now if you two knuckleheads want to get a good night’s rest, I suggest we get to bed.”

“Goodnight, Pa,” Joe said. “‘Night, Adam.” Joe headed up the stairs.

“‘Night, Joe.” Adam then said to his pa, “Well, it looks like that boy of yours finally grew up.”

Ben chuckled softly. “Yes.”

“It took long enough.”

Ben looked up at the staircase. “Yes, he’s gonna be a good father. Yes sir.” He looked at Adam and smiled. “And so will you.”

“Thanks, but it will only be because I learned from the best. Goodnight, Pa.”

“Goodnight, son.”

Adam headed up the staircase as Ben stood there feeling proud at what fine men his sons had turned out to be.

Joe checked on Alice. He opened the door to find Alice asleep. He smiled and took a seat on the edge of the bed.

He gently brushed his hand against her cheek and couldn’t help but stare at her.

She stirred a little and her eyes fluttered open. “Hi.” She gave a tired smile. 

“Hi. How are you feeling?”

“Fine, just a little tired,” she replied.

“Oh. I talked to Pa. We’ll ride into Virginia City tomorrow and talk to Clem and then give your brother a proper burial.”

She shook her head. “Oh, you don’t have to do that.”

“Why not? He was your brother.”

“I know, but….”

“What?”

Her eyes filled with tears. “In a way it’s sort of a relief. I know it sounds awful and I did love my brother, but he was always in some sort of trouble with money and I always had to be the one to bail him out. He had a gambling problem even when our mother and father were alive. I also know he had been lying to me all this time. He told me in his letters that he was doing well and in the middle of some big land deal.” She rolled her eyes. “But I could tell he was lying to me. I also understand why he did it. He didn’t want to worry me. He wanted me to be happy. Because he loved me.”

Joe gave a small smile. “And that’s why he deserves a proper burial. He was your brother, so that makes him my family too. Okay?” A smile formed on her lips as she nodded. He then suggested, “Hey, I was thinking. Why don’t we take a trip somewhere, just you and me. Anywhere you want to go. You name it.”

“Well, I’ve always wanted to visit San Francisco.”

“Well then.” He brought her hand up to his lips and gave it a gentle kiss. “San Francisco it is, my dear.”

She grinned as he leaned in and gave her a kiss.

He reached over to dim the lamp. “Let’s get some sleep.”

The next morning, the Cartwright family along with Candy gathered around a white cross near Joe and Alice’s house for John’s funeral service. Joe had his arm wrapped around Alice’s shoulder as the reverend read from Psalm 23. After Alice said her goodbyes to Joe’s family and Candy, she and Joe headed to San Francisco.

Chapter Three 

It was noon in San Francisco as Damion’s brother, Clyde leaned against a wooden post in front of a general store. He was growing restless and impatient, wanting to get out of town, but they never left until Damion said so. One of Damion’s henchmen, Hank, came up to him.

Clyde asked, “What’s he doing now?”

“In the saloon, having a drink.” Hank then said with a chuckle, “That big old lummox, Hanley is guardin’ your brother like a watchdog.”

“Well, ain’t that nice,” Clyde remarked sarcastically.

Meanwhile, a stagecoach pulled up. Hank folded his arms as he looked over and saw Alice Cartwright getting out of the stage.

Hank’s demeanor changed as he straightened up and said, “Hey, it’s her.”

“Who?” Clyde asked.

“Harper’s sister, the one who’s married to that Cartwright fella.”

Clyde turned and looked over at the stagecoach in curiosity. 

“Here we are, San Francisco!” the driver announced.

Joe helped Alice, but as she stepped down, she started to feel woozy.

“That stagecoach was rougher than the one in Virginia City,” she remarked.

Joe placed his hand on her back as he asked her in concern, “Are you all right?”

“Yes, I’m fine.” She nodded and placed her hand on his shoulder as she swallowed. “I just might need a minute.”

He giggled, then turned to get the bags. Alice went to get hers, but Joe stopped her.

“No, I’ve got it,” he said.

Alice said to him as she placed her hands on her hips, “Carrying a few bags is not going to hurt me.”

“I know, but I’m still gonna carry the bags anyway,” He picked up the bags. “Let’s go.”

Alice shook her head with a smirk and followed after him.

Clyde and Hank watched them head over to the hotel.

Hank said, “We better go tell Damion.”

Hank started to move when Clyde grabbed him by the shoulder and said, “The hell you are.”

Hank asked in disbelief, “What in the Sam Hill you talking about? We gotta tell him.”

Clyde said, “You’re not gonna tell him anything. As far as I’m concerned you never saw her get off that stage.”

Hank told him, “I don’t take orders from you. I answer to Damion.” 

Clyde pulled him by the collar and said, “Well, that’s all gonna change. From now on, you answer to me. So you turn right around and run on back to Damion. And I don’t want you to speak a word of that girl, not one word! You hear? Or else I’m gonna tell my brother you tried to kill me. And he’ll have Hanley cut you up into little bitty pieces.”

Hank stared daggers at Clyde and shrugged him off. He then hurried off in the other direction, behind the general store.

Clyde looked over at the hotel as he formulated a plan in his mind. He knew why his brother couldn’t kill Harper’s sister. Women were Damion’s weakness. But not Clyde’s. And he wasn’t about to go back to jail or hang for a crime he didn’t commit.

***

After Joe had gotten them a hotel room, he and Alice went up to their room while the bellhop carried their bags. 

When they reached their room, Joe opened the door and had Alice walk in first then the bellhop with the bags.

He set them down near the door. “Enjoy your stay, sir.”

“Thank you. Here you are.” Joe handed him a tip.

“Oh, thank you, sir.” The bellhop left the hotel room then Joe closed the door. He turned around and saw Alice exploring the room in awe.

“Oh, Joe, it’s beautiful.”

Joe smiled and said, “Well, it oughta be. It’s the best hotel in town for the best girl in town.” He put his arms around her waist and kissed her. 

“What do we do first?” she asked.

Joe took her face in his hands as he replied, “Anything you want. It’s just you and me.” He leaned in and kissed her again and then tapped her on the nose. “Hey. I know a great place we could go for dinner. What do you say?”

She looked down, shyly, as she replied, “I would, but I don’t have anything to wear, everything is so tight on me right now.”

Joe shrugged his shoulders. “We’ll go shopping. But to be perfectly honest, you look beautiful to me no matter what outfit you got on.”

Alice blushed and he gave her another kiss. He added, “But I’ll take you shopping anyway. I want my girl to look her best for tonight.” She smiled and he kissed her again and told her, “I’ll go get changed before we head out.”

She nodded and took a breath, finally feeling free to relax and enjoy herself for a change.

***

Later that afternoon, Joe was inside a lady’s boutique, leaning against the counter. He rested his elbow on top of the counter with a look of boredom as he waited for Alice who was in the dressing room trying on another dress.

“Can I help you with something, sir?” He straightened himself up as he turned around to see a sales lady standing there.

“Hm? Oh, no, thank you, I’m just waiting on my wife.”

She looked towards the dressing room.

“Oh I see.” She turned and walked away. Joe overheard her giggling. He sighed and started pacing back and forth. When Alice finally came out of the dressing room, Joe turned around to her.

She looked down at her dress and then back up at Joe and asked him, “What do you think?”

Joe nodded as he replied with a nervous smile, “It looks nice.”

“Do you like how it looks on me?” she asked.

He nodded and chuckled. “Yeah. Of course I liked the other seven you showed me too.”

She took a look in the mirror and placed her hand over her midriff as she began to feel a bit of uneasiness and insecurity. She sighed and said, “I don’t know. Maybe I should go with the red one instead.”

Joe snapped his finger and responded, “Excellent choice. You know I was gonna suggest the exact same thing.”

She then said, “Or maybe the green one.”

He shrugged his shoulders a bit as he held his hand out to her, “Even better, go with that one.”

Alice was still undecided. She asked, “Which one do you like best?”

Joe sighed as his patience was wearing thin. “Honey, I’d like any one you pick as long as you pick something.”

Alice sighed and said, “I simply can’t decide.”

Joe said in aggravation, “Then pick them all. Pick something, pick anything. I’ll buy it. In fact, I’ll buy this whole store, I. Don’t. Care.”

“I think I’ll try the blue one on again.” She turned and went back inside the dressing room.

Joe said under his breath, “Try the blue one on again.” He smoothed his hair back as he let out a sigh and laid his head down on the counter.

Later, Joe and Alice walked along the sidewalk, each of them carrying a rectangular box.

She turned and said, “I hope you’re not mad I kept you waiting long.”

Joe shook his head. “No, I’m not mad.” He then remarked in a somewhat sarcastic tone, “I don’t mind spending over an hour in a ladies clothing store and having a bunch of women staring and giggling at me.”

She giggled softly and then apologized to him. “I’m sorry.”

“Don’t worry about it,” he said as he smiled and she smiled back.

All of a sudden a man crashed through the window of a saloon. Joe and Alice came to a halt. Joe dropped the box in his hands and quickly grabbed Alice’s shoulders and pulled her to him. They heard piano music playing in the background as the man quickly got back up again and charged through the folding doors of the saloon.

Joe giggled and then said to Alice, “Must be a pretty good game going on in there.”

Alice looked at him and responded, “I hope you are not thinking of going in there.”

Joe turned to her. “Hm? Oh, no. No. I don’t gamble,” he stuttered.

“Promise?” Alice said.

Joe nodded with a nervous smile. “Mm-hm.”

They then heard a familiar smooth and sophisticated voice, “I’d hold him to that if I were you, Alice.”

Joe and Alice both turned to see Adam grinning at them.

A smile spread across Joe’s face. “Hey, Adam.”

“Joe.”

Joe introduced Alice. “Alice, this is my older brother, Adam.”

Alice smiled. “Oh, yes, Joe told me about you. It’s a pleasure to finally meet you.”

Adam smiled back at her. “Pleasure to meet you. You’re even more lovely than Joe said you were.”

Joe asked, “What are you doing here?”

“Well, I heard you two were taking a trip to San Francisco and I thought I would stop by and see how you kids were coming along.”

“You mean spy on us?”

“Well, call it what you’d like little brother, but I’d say it’s more like keeping an eye on you.” He grinned.

Joe folded his arms. “Oh, really? Well, you can just turn right around and go back home to Pa. I’m a big boy now. I can take care of myself, thank you.”

“Why, Joe Cartwright, is that you?” A woman with a Southern accent shouted. 

Joe turned and saw a saloon girl waving at him. He turned back around with a look of dread on his face. “Oh, boy.”

A big grin spread across Adam’s face as the woman hurried over to Joe.

“Why, it is you!” she said with excitement in her voice, “I’d recognize that darlin’ little face anywhere.” She giggled.

“Hi, Daisy. How are you?” Joe said to her, embarrassed.

“Oh, fine, just fine. How about you, Little Joe?”

Joe replied in a nervous tone of voice, “Oh, fine. Fine. You remember my brother Adam, don’t you?”

She turned to Adam, who bowed his head to her. She said, “Oh, yes. I remember all you Cartwrights.”

Joe then introduced Alice. “And this is Alice. My wife.”

Daisy put her hands up to her face and squealed as she slapped Joe on the shoulder making him jump. “Why, I don’t believe it!”

Adam said, “Yes, our Little Joe has finally tied the knot and settled down in greener pastures.”

Joe looked at him, annoyed.

Daisy responded, “Well, don’t that beat all? I remember when he was just a sprig, he was so shy when he come into the saloon.” She brushed her hand against his cheek but Joe moved away. “I remember he used to button up my….”

Joe immediately interrupted her. “Corsets! Corsets. I used to help button up her corsets.”

“Yes, and he was so gentle with me.” She smiled then took his hand in hers. “He always had such soft hands.”

Joe quickly moved his hand away and got behind Alice as he responded nervously, “Yes, and these hands are only used to button her corsets now.” He placed his hands on Alice’s shoulders as his face turned bright red with embarrassment. 

“Oh. Well, it was good seein’ you again, Joe.” Daisy then said to Alice, “And it was nice meetin’ you, honey.” She walked past Joe and winked at him as she headed back to the saloon. “See you around.”

Joe said, “We should probably get these back to the hotel. You go on ahead, Alice. I’ll meet you there.”

“Alright.” She tried to suppress a smirk and then walked off towards the hotel.

Joe bent down to pick up the box and Adam asked in curiosity, “What’s in the box?”

“Oh, it’s just a new dress I got for Alice,” Joe replied.

“Oh,” Adam said, “let’s just hope there aren’t any buttons for you to button up.” Adam laughed.

Joe mocked him. “Ha-ha-ha, get out of here.” Adam walked off. Joe shook his head and then headed back to the hotel carrying the box. 

At the hotel that evening, Alice was getting ready in front of the mirror when she heard Joe ask from the other room, “Are you ready yet?”

She was fixing her hair and said, “Uh-huh. Almost. Just a few more minutes.”

Joe walked into the room wearing his blue suit. He said, “You said that five minutes ago.”

Alice struggled with her dress and asked, “Can you help me with this?”

He came up behind her and started buttoning her dress. He then gave a puzzled look as he muttered, “Hm.”

She looked over her shoulder and asked, “What’s wrong?”

“I’m just having a little trouble with this is all,” he replied.

She said in disbelief, “It can’t be too tight already, I just bought it.” She then gave a mischievous grin as she looked over her shoulder at Joe and remarked, “Maybe it would help if you imagined me as that saloon girl.”

He gave her an annoyed look. “Very funny.”

She giggled as he finished buttoning her dress. “There.”

She looked at the back of her dress in the mirror. Joe told her as he pointed his finger at her, “And she meant nothing to me, I promise you.”

She muttered, “Mm-hm. So, how do I look?”

He smiled and wrapped his arms around her waist. “You look beautiful, sweetheart.” He kissed her neck and she smiled as he placed his chin over her shoulder and looked in the mirror with her. He said, “I’ll wait for you downstairs in the lobby, okay?”

“Okay.”

He gave her another kiss and then turned and walked out of the room.

Alice took another look in the mirror when she heard the familiar tune of a music box. Her whole body tensed and a look of fear spread across her face. She walked towards the door as the sound grew louder.

She stepped out of the room and walked into the open room next door. To her shock and dismay, she saw the wooden music box Joe gave her on their wedding night on a table. It was open and she saw the diamond necklace was missing. She wondered how it got here, but her thoughts were interrupted by a woman’s voice.

“Can I help you with anything, honey?”

Alice turned around and saw a saloon girl standing at the door. “Oh, I just heard the music playing from the next room,” Alice replied, nervously.

The saloon girl walked into the room and smiled. “It’s lovely, isn’t it?”

“Yes, it is.” Alice then asked, “Do you mind me asking where you got this?”

“A man sold it to me. It was a real bargain too,” she replied as she moved her hand along the box.

“Do you remember his name?”

“He didn’t tell me his name. But, he did have a bit of an accent and talked all proper and fancy-like.” The saloon girl asked her in curiosity, “Why do you ask?”

Alice looked at her and replied, “Oh, no reason. I used to have one just like it and it just reminded me of it I suppose.”

The saloon girl nodded. “Oh.”

Alice apologized. “I’m sorry if I bothered you.”

The saloon girl waved her hand and said, “Oh, no worries, darlin’. You take care.”

“Thank you,” Alice said to her softly. She took one last look at the music box as she walked out of the room.

***

Later on that night, Alice was lying in bed when Joe walked into the bedroom, yawning.

“Boy, I tell you, I never get used to the city.” Joe got into bed next to Alice. “I always loved the outdoors. Adam on the other hand couldn’t get enough of the city. He was always bragging about all the places he’d been to, all the places he wanted to visit. Not me though, I’d rather stay on the Ponderosa with Pa for the rest of my life.” He then looked over at Alice. “That is if it’s alright with you of course.”

She gave a small smile and he took notice of her silence. He asked, “Are you feeling all right?”

She turned her head to him. “Hm? I’m fine.”

Joe didn’t buy her response. “Are you sure? You were kinda quiet at dinner.”

“Mm-hm. I’m just a little tired.”

“There’s nothing bothering you is there?”

“Joe, it’s nothing. I’m fine, really. Okay?”

“Okay,” he responded, softly.

“Now, lay back,” she said.

He raised his eyebrows a bit. “Lay back?”

“Mm-hm, lay back.” He laid his head back on the pillow and she laid her head back beside his. He then wrapped his arm around her shoulder. She placed her hand on his bare chest and then said to him, “Now go to sleep, husband.”

He chuckled. “Yes ma’am.” He then gave her a kiss and said, “Goodnight.”

“Goodnight.” She laid her head on his chest.

He stroked her head as he said, “I love you.”

“I love you,” she said. She kept her eyes open for a little while longer while he drifted off to sleep.

She wanted to tell Joe about the music box but didn’t want to ruin their trip as she could have been wrong. But she swore it was the same music box Joe had given her. She was almost sure of it given the saloon girl’s description of the man who had given it to her. It had to be Damion. She pushed the matter aside for now as she closed her eyes and finally drifted off to sleep.

***

The next morning, Joe and Alice walked along the sidewalk, holding hands when they stopped in front of a general store. Joe said, “I just need to check on a few things for Pa while I’m here.”

“All right.”

“And then….” He placed his hand under her chin. “We can have that picnic by the lake we were talking about, huh?” She smiled and he kissed her. “I won’t be long.” He gave her one more kiss before heading inside the general store.

Alice walked over to a dress shop just a few blocks from the general store and took a look inside.

Clyde, who had been following her and Joe, walked up and leaned against a post with his hand resting on his gun belt.

“You must be that girl my brother has taken a fancy to,” Clyde said.

Alice turned and gave him a puzzled look. “Do I know you?”

“No. But my brother Damion does. Your brother owed him money.”

Alice glared at him and started to walk off, but Clyde grabbed her by the arm, tightly. 

“What did you tell that husband of yours about us, huh?”

“Get your hands off me!” she shouted. She struggled to break free from his grasp.

He yelled, “You told the sheriff about us, didn’t you? Didn’t you?” He let go of her and started backing away from her. “Well, I’m not gonna hang for Hanley.” He drew his gun as he said, “I’m gonna do what my brother should have done in the first place.” He aimed his gun at Alice who stood there frozen in fear.

All of a sudden, Clyde was shot and he fell to the ground.

The crowd screamed and scattered. Alice looked to her right and saw Adam with his gun in his hand. He came up to Alice as he put his gun back into its holster and asked, “Are you all right?”

“Yeah. I’m fine.” Her voice trembled. “How did you…?” 

“I saw him following you and Joe on the way to the general store. I heard everything. He was one of the men involved in the murder of your brother, wasn’t he?”

“Yes.” She then said to herself, “That was my music box.”

Adam looked at her puzzled. “What?”

She quickly looked back up at him and responded, “Oh, it’s nothing.”

He gently took her arm and said, “We better find that husband of yours and tell him what happened.”

They headed back over to the general store just as Joe came walking out.

“Oh, Joe.” Alice ran into Joe’s arms.

“Alice? Hey.” He lifted her head up to him and asked her, “What’s wrong? What happened?”

Adam said, “One of Damion’s men confronted Alice about her brother’s murder and tried to kill her.”

Joe looked at him in disbelief. “What? Where is he?”

“He’s dead. I shot him,” Adam replied.

Joe tried to keep his anger under control as he looked at Alice and put his hand up to her cheek. He asked her, “Are you all right?”

She nodded and then said to him tearfully, “The music box.”

“What?” he said, puzzled.

“The music box, Joe, the one you gave me. Damion took it. I found it. A woman had it. She bought it from Damion.”

Joe looked at her stunned as he then asked her, “Why didn’t you tell me?”

“I thought it was just a coincidence, that it was just my imagination. But now I know,” she replied. She looked up at him and said with guilt in her voice, “I’m sorry I didn’t tell you.” Her head fell on his shoulder as she burst into tears again.

He held her close and tried to calm her down. “Shh. It’s alright.”

Adam then looked out into the street as he said, “That means they’re here then.”

Joe looked at Adam and then into the street as he responded, “Yeah. I’ll have to contact Clem in Virginia City and let him know we found them.”

Adam nodded. “I’ll go with you. It’s best you get out of here now before Damion finds out.”

“Right.” Joe looked down at Alice and took her face in his hands. “Come on, let’s go home.” He wrapped his arm around her shoulder and they headed back to the hotel with Adam to gather their things to go back to Virginia City.

Meanwhile, one of Damion’s men, Hank, watched them go inside the hotel. He’d just witnessed Adam kill Clyde from across the street. He hurried behind the alleyway. 

Chapter Four 

Hank ran to Damion and told him his brother was dead. Damion didn’t believe him at first, but then Hank explained to him what had happened.

“Your brother didn’t want me telling nobody that the sister was here, but I wanted to.”

Damion said with a tilt of his head, “Yet. You didn’t. Why?”

Hank stammered as beads of sweat began to form and his body tensed up. “He threatened me. He said if I told you, then he’d make it look like I tried to kill him. I didn’t want to betray you, Damion. You gotta believe me.”

Damion stared at him for several seconds and then said, “Hanley.”

Hanley grabbed Hank by the throat and slammed him up against the wall. Hank tried to pry his hand off, but Hanley’s strength was too great for him.

Hank croaked, “Damion. I didn’t mean it.”

Damion said, “I should have Mr. Hanley squeeze. But unfortunately I need you alive. You are the only one who can identify the man who killed my brother.”

The weight of Hanley’s grip around Hank’s neck bore down further as Hank pleaded, “Please, forgive me, Damion.”

Damion asked, “You want to be forgiven?”

“Yes.”

Damion signaled for Hanley to let go of Hank. Hank gasped for air, his chest heaving. Damion looked down at him with a crazed look in his eye and said, “Kneel down.”

Hank got on all fours and crawled over to Damion. He looked up at Damion and begged, “Please. Have mercy.”

Damion gave a sinister smile. “You’re forgiven.” He then said to Hanley, “Get him up.” Hanley grabbed Hank and hoisted him up.

Damion walked over to the window.  

Krater, one of Damion’s men, asked, “What do we do now?”

Damion paused and then said, “It’s a beautiful day outside. Let’s take a ride.”

***

Meanwhile, Joe, Adam, and Alice returned to Virginia City and explained to Clem what had happened in San Francisco. Clem told them he would notify all of the jewelry stores in San Francisco about the missing necklace and that Adam wouldn’t be charged with killing Damion’s brother since he was defending Alice.

They said goodbye to Clem and left the sheriff’s office.

When outside, Adam put his hat back on and said, “I think I’ll stay in town for a little while.”

Joe asked him, “You’re still gonna join us and Pa for supper tonight, right?”

“Mm-hm,” Adam said, “you don’t think I’d pass on Hop Sing’s cooking would you?”

Joe chuckled and responded, “No.” Joe put his hat back on as he said, “I’ve got to get Alice home. I’ll see you later.”

“See you, Joe,” Adam replied.

Joe placed his arm around Alice’s shoulder and they all parted ways. Joe and Alice headed over to the buggy while Adam walked off in the other direction.

***

A few days passed and there was still no word from Deputy Clem about Damion’s whereabouts. Joe and Alice were back home again and Joe got back to finishing the nursery.

One afternoon, Joe walked into the house, covered in sweat to see Alice sitting in a chair and knitting.

She looked up and smiled at him. “Hi.”

“Hi.” He came up to her and gave her a quick kiss.

She asked, “How’s the room coming along?”

“It’s coming along pretty good,” he replied. He went over to the bowl of water sitting on the countertop in the kitchen. “Pa said he’ll be by later with some more lumber.” He washed his face in the bowl and then grabbed a towel and dried off. He looked over at her and asked, “Whatcha doing?”

“Oh, I thought I’d try knitting a blanket for the baby,” she replied. She then held it up to him and asked, “What do you think?”

He threw the towel down and walked over to her and took a look at it. “Hey, that’s not a bad job, mama.” He gave her another kiss as she giggled.

“I’m still not used to that yet.”

“Well, get used to it,” he told her.

She shook her head and got back to knitting. She said, “I was thinking of names for the baby.”

His head perked up a little as he responded, “Oh, yeah?” He pulled up a chair in front of her and took a seat with his front facing the back rim of the chair.

“Mm-hm. But none of the names I thought of really stood out to me.”

He folded his arms over the back rim of the chair and laid his chin down on top of them. He said to her with a smile, “Well, I’m sure whatever name you pick will be great.”

“I think you’re forgetting that this is your child too.”

He shrugged his shoulders. “Yeah, but I’m not really good with names.”

“Well, surely you’re thinking of something,” she said.

Joe sighed. “I don’t know. Tell you what. If it’s a boy we’ll name him after me and if it’s a girl we’ll name her after you. How’s that?”

She giggled and responded, “I’ll think about it, alright?”

“All right.” He leaned in and kissed her.

She put the blanket and knitting needle down. “I’ll fix you some lunch before you get back to work.” She got up from the chair and headed into the kitchen.

He got up from his chair and said while following after her, “Oh, that’s alright. I can fix something. You don’t have to.”

“Joe, it’s not a problem, I can do it.”

“Well, I’ll help you.

“I don’t think so.” She placed her hands on her hips and then said, “Hop Sing wouldn’t allow you into his kitchen would he?”

“Yeah, but this isn’t Hop Sing’s kitchen,” he replied.

“You’re right. It’s mine.” She kissed his cheek and then waved her hands at him. “Now, go on, husband. Out.”

He held his hands up while taking a few steps backwards. “Yes, ma’am.”

There was a knock at the door. “That must be Pa,” Joe said. “I’ll get it.”

He went to the door and opened it to see three of Damion’s men, one of them pointing a gun at him. Joe tried to slam the door but Hanley held it open.

Joe pushed with all his might as he screamed, “Alice!”

Alice asked in a frightened tone, “Joe, who is it?”

“I need you to get my gun. Hurry!”

Alice quickly grabbed his revolver from his gun belt.

He said, “Slide it over to me.”

She slid the gun on the floor and, in a split second, he moved away from the door and down onto the floor just as Hanley broke open the door. Joe slid across the floor as he grabbed his gun and he fired a shot, hitting one of Damion’s men in the arm. The man yelped out in pain as he grabbed his arm.

One of the men said to Hanley, “Get the girl, but leave Cartwright alive.”

Hanley moved towards Alice. Joe quickly got back up and he lunged at Hanley, but Joe was no match for him. Hanley grabbed Joe and punched him across the face, knocking him down over the table, which broke as he fell to the ground.

Hanley turned back around and moved towards Alice. She backed away as her whole body trembled with fear.

Joe quickly got back up again and screamed, “Alice, ru….” He was cut off by one of Damion’s men who hit Joe over the head with a gun, knocking him out.

Alice looked down at Joe in shock.

“Let’s get a move on. Now!”

Hanley grabbed Alice.

She cried, “No!” She tried to fight back as he pulled her to the door. She looked down at Joe lying on the floor and screamed his name over and over again.

Hanley headed out the door with Alice as the other men followed behind him.

When Joe’s eyes fluttered open, he was laying on the settee in his house. He sat up as he screamed, “Alice!”

Candy and Jamie had arrived and found him unconscious. They moved him over to the settee.

Candy grabbed hold of Joe’s shoulders and held him down as he said, “It’s all right, Joe, it’s alright, take it easy. What happened?”

Joe looked around and said in a trembling voice, “They got Alice. Damion’s men got her.” Joe got up from the settee and moved past Jamie who stood next to Candy. Joe, still a little woozy, stumbled over the broken table as he made his way to the door.

“We have to move.” He grabbed his gun belt and started putting it on. 

Candy hurried over to him. “Whoa, slow down, Joe.”

Joe said, “We need to find Clem and tell him what happened. He can send a posse to search for them. They couldn’t have gotten far.” He finished putting on his gun belt and then picked up his black leather gloves as he said, “We’ll ride over to the ranch first and let Pa know what happened.”

“He’s in Carson, he won’t be back for a couple of hours,” Candy told him.

Joe then thought of Adam who was still in Virginia City.

“What about Adam?”

“I don’t know, I haven’t seen him,” Candy replied.

Joe said, “Jamie, I need you to ride back to the ranch and wait for Pa.”

“Let me come with you,” Jamie said.

“No, I need you to wire Pa in Carson City and tell him what happened and where we’re heading.”

Jamie pleaded with him. “Please, Joe, let me come with you. I want to help.”

Joe raised his voice as he said, sternly, “I told you no. Now go do what I told you.” Jamie looked down and Joe realized how he sounded. “Look, Jamie, I’m sorry, but it’s too dangerous. I don’t want to risk any more of my family than I have to, all right?”

Jamie nodded. “All right. Should I tell Pa to catch up with you?”

“No, there’s not enough time, just tell him we’ll get her back.”

There was a knock at the door. Joe opened it and saw Clem.

“Clem, we were just coming to talk to you. Damion’s men took Alice.”

“I know. We found one of his men in town. We’re holding him in a cell,” Clem said.

“Let’s go,” Joe said. He headed out the door with Candy and Jamie following behind him.

Joe and Candy arrived in Virginia City. Clem led them inside the jail and Joe saw a man in a holding cell holding onto the bars.

“Is that him?” Joe asked.

“Yeah, that’s him,” Clem said.

Joe asked, “Were you able to get anything out of him?”

“Not much,” said Clem. “One of my men spotted him last night in the saloon with a few other men who fit the description Alice gave us. He said only one of them did all the talking like he was their leader.”

Joe immediately knew who he was talking about.

“Damion.”

Clem said, “After they cleaned everybody out, Damion and his friends managed to get away, except this one who was passed out drunk. I asked for his name, but he wouldn’t give it. He said he only answers to Damion.”

Joe glared at the man in the cell. He asked him in a calm but stern tone, “Where’s my wife?”

The man chuckled and said in a gruff voice, “Damion’s got big plans for her.”

Joe asked him again as he stared daggers at him. “Where’s my wife?”

The man didn’t answer him.

Joe grabbed him through the bars and yelled, “Where is she? You tell me where!”

Candy pulled Joe back. “Joe! Take it easy.”

Joe loosened his grip on the man.

The man said, “I told you. I only answer to Damion.”

“Well, you’re gonna answer to somebody else if you don’t start talking,” Joe said, seething with anger.

Candy tried getting an answer. “Look, you’re gonna be here a while, so you might as well talk.”

The man relented. “Damion said he was gonna work his way through Sacramento. Wait for the man who shot and killed his brother. You see, he demands payment for his blood. If he doesn’t get it, he’s gonna pay it with hers.”

Candy said, “That’s less than half a day’s ride from here.”

“If we hurry, we might catch them, let’s go,” Joe said.

They started to head out the door when the man said, “You better hurry. It’d be a shame for Damion to have to let Hanley cut up that pretty little face of hers.”

Joe lunged through the bars and wrapped his hands around the man’s neck. Candy and Clem had to pry Joe off of him.

“Joe! Joe, stop! That’s enough,” Candy said. “Just let it go.” Joe seethed with anger as Candy tried to calm him down. “Joe.”

Joe continued to glare at the man as his chest heaved. He finally calmed down and then left the jail with Candy.

***

Alice was taken by Damion’s men to a hotel room in Sacramento. She paced back and forth, riddled with fear and worry for Joe. She didn’t want to believe he was dead. She thought she’d heard one of Damion’s men mention that Damion wanted Joe alive, but everything had happened so fast, she couldn’t be sure.

Alice took a seat on the bed when she heard the door opening. She got back up from the bed, startled when a man walked in. She recognized him as the one who had discovered the music box in her home.

He came up to her as he gave her a smug grin and said, “Damion wanted me to come check on you.”

“That was very thoughtful of him,” Alice said through gritted teeth.

He gazed at her for several seconds making Alice uncomfortable before he said, “You’re a very pretty woman.”

He moved closer to her and Alice backed away slowly. He placed his hand up to her face and repeated, “Very pretty.”

Alice slapped his hand away. “Don’t touch me.”

He grinned and said, “I like a little fire in a woman. That Cartwright’s a lucky man.”

Alice told him, “If you lay a hand on me, my husband will kill you.”

“It’ll be worth it.” He backed Alice into a corner and her breath shuddered when they heard Damion’s voice.

“Sloan.”

Sloan turned around and saw Damion standing there with Hanley and Krater.

Sloan said with a stutter, “Damion. I was just checking on the girl like you told me to.”

“I know what you were doing, Sloan. And frankly, I find it rather detestable.”

Beads of sweat formed on Sloan’s forehead as he said, nervously, “Oh, no. No, I was just fooling around, I didn’t mean nothing by it.”

Damion said, “You surprise me, Sloan. I expected better from you.”

“Hey, Damion. You know me not to do a thing like that.”

Damion sighed. “I could simply overlook it, but you hurt me, Sloan. You must be punished for your sins.”

Sloan pleaded, “Please. Have mercy, Damion.” He dropped down to his knees. He begged, “Please Damion.”

Damion looked down at him with disdain and said, “Hanley.”

Sloan kept pleading and begging over and over again. Hanley grabbed him and pulled him to the door as Sloan tried to fight him.

After Hanley dragged him out of the room, Sloan gave a blood curdling scream and then there was dead silence.

Alice’s whole body trembled. Damion looked at her and smiled.

“I do apologize for Mr. Sloan’s abhorrent behavior. I can assure you, it won’t happen again. We’ll make sure you have the best of care.”

Damion left the room along with Krater. While she was afraid with Sloan, it was Damion she feared more. The way he smiled at her sent a chill up her spine. There was something so sinister about him. She closed her eyes and laid down on the bed as she cried.

***

Meanwhile, Joe and Candy searched town after town for Damion’s whereabouts, but were told they had just missed him. The only town left to search was Sacramento.

Joe and Candy had to rest the horses for the night, so they made camp in the woods. Joe sat on a hollow log as he attempted to eat the plate of beans that Candy had cooked for them over the fire. There were so many thoughts that plagued his mind. One of them being whether Alice was still alive. The thought of losing her was too much for him to bear. He had already lost his brother, Hoss and it had devastated him. He feared what losing Alice would do to him. Not only Alice, but their baby as well. He was so excited to be a father. He still remembered the joy he’d felt when Alice had first told him the news.

“It means we’re gonna have to add that room a little sooner than we planned to.”

“Are you kidding me? I’ll have it built in half an hour. I can’t believe it. A baby.”

Joe’s thoughts were interrupted by Candy.

“There’s more beans left if you want some.”

Joe looked up at him and responded, softly, “No, thank you.”

Candy said, “The horses should be rested by morning. We’ll head out again at first light.”

Joe stared out into the blackness of the night and said, “I never finished the baby’s room. I never….” His voice broke as he tried to fight tears.

“Joe.”

Joe looked over to Candy who said to him, “We’ll get her back. We will.”

Joe nodded his head. There was something about the way Candy said it to him that made him believe it. He wasn’t just saying the words to make him feel better. He truly believed them. It was enough for Joe to be able to rest that night.

Chapter Five 

Joe and Candy made it to Sacramento by noon the next day. They stopped by a hotel and the clerk told them Damion had come by there, but they missed him by over an hour. Joe and Candy then headed to the livery to get fresh horses and rode off on Damion’s trail.

***

Damion waited impatiently for Joe a few miles from the hotel. He said to himself, “Wherever could he be?”

Damion walked up to Krater and asked, “How far behind did you say he should be by now?”

“Two, maybe three hours at the pace he’s going,” Krater replied.

Damion said, “Mr. Hanley and I will go on ahead with Mrs. Cartwright until we find some fresh water. You stay behind with Mr. Carver. If Mr. Cartwright is not alone, kill whoever is with him.” He came up to Alice. “Come along with me, my dear.”

Alice looked at him with disgust as Damion grabbed hold of her arm and pulled her along with him.

***

Joe and Candy dismounted their horses and crept into the bushes. They looked ahead to see smoke in the distance.

“You think that’s him?” Candy asked.

“I don’t know, it could be a trap,” Joe said. “Cover me.”

Joe moved out of the bushes while Candy kept watch.

Joe sprinted up and over the rocks to get a closer look to where the smoke was coming from.

Meanwhile, Krater found Candy and cocked his gun at him.

“Turn around.” Candy turned and saw Krater grinning at him.

“Get up, ranch hand.” Krater grabbed Candy and pulled him up.

Joe hid behind a rock when he heard a man’s voice.

“Get out here, Cartwright or I’m gonna put a bullet into your friend here!” Krater shouted.

Joe looked over the rock and saw Krater with his gun pointed at Candy. Joe came out from behind the rock and held his hands up.

“Hold it.”

Krater turned and saw Joe with his hands up fully surrendered.

Joe said, “Let him go.”

Krater grinned and said, “About time you showed up. Damion’s been waiting for you.”

“You wanted me. You got me,” Joe told him.

“You should have come alone, Cartwright. Damion said I was to kill anyone who’s with you. Gotta do what the man says. Nothing personal.”

Candy elbowed Krater hard in the stomach before Krater could pull the trigger. Krater yelped in pain and Candy then punched him across the face.

Carver came out of hiding and attempted to take a shot at Candy when Joe whipped out his gun and fired a shot at him. Carver spun and fell to the ground dead. 

Joe walked over to Candy and they both went over to Krater who was doubled over on the ground, coughing and clutching at his stomach.

Joe said, “If you don’t want to end up like your friend over there, I suggest you talk.”

Krater panicked and sputtered, “It was Damion who took her, not me! I had nothing to do with it!”

“Where is she?” Joe asked in a stern tone.

Krater didn’t answer. Joe, filled with rage, cocked his gun. 

“Answer me!”

“Damion rode on ahead with her, looking for water. We’re supposed to meet them there.”

Joe lowered his gun and said to Candy, “Stay with him.”

Candy said, “You can’t face him alone, Joe. You need me.”

“I don’t have a choice, he’s expecting me to come alone. I’ll be all right, just stay out of sight for now.”

Candy nodded.

Joe hurried back over to his horse and took off in the direction of the smoke.

Joe rode fast like lightning down the trail. He slowed his horse down and dismounted. He moved swiftly over to the bushes and saw a small campsite. Joe scanned the area before he headed over to it.

Damion came out from behind a tree with a rifle in his hand. He said in a casual tone, “You must be Mr. Cartwright. I’ve been expecting you.”

Joe stared daggers at him and asked, “What have you done with my wife?”

“Your wife. Of course.” Damion called out, “Mr. Hanley!”

Hanley came out with his hand held tightly over Alice’s arm. Her hands were tied behind her back.

She looked up and said with relief in her voice, “Joe.”

Joe looked at her as a wave of relief washed over him.

“Alice.” He started to go to her, but Damion pointed his rifle at him.

“Don’t. Move.”

Joe stopped and Damion said, “We’re not through here yet. Because, you see, I still need payment for my brother’s death.”

“Your brother tried to kill my wife,” Joe said.

“Yes, well, that is unfortunate,” Damion said. “My brother never was very bright. He took after Father in that way. Nevertheless, his death still needs to be atoned for.”

Joe shouted, “My wife had nothing to do with that!”

“Oh, I know that, Mr. Cartwright. I have a witness who saw everything. I just needed your wife for leverage, you might say. The real killer is within our midst.”

Joe looked at him perplexed.

Damion called out, “Hank!”

Hank came out from behind a tree. To Joe’s shock and dismay, he saw his brother, Adam, his face beaten and bruised, his clothes torn, and his hands tied behind his back, being dragged by Hank. Hank pushed him to the ground.

“Adam?” Joe whispered in disbelief.

Damion said, “Mr. Hanley discovered him last night. He had followed us all the way from Virginia City. Hank informed us that he was the one who killed my brother. Your brother killing my brother. Ironic, isn’t it?” He pointed his rifle at Adam.

Joe started to move. “No.”

Damion looked at Adam and said, “I could just end this all right now and get vengeance for my brother’s killer.” He gave a sinister smile. “Or….” He put the rifle down and looked over at Alice. He came up to her and gently caressed her cheek. She jerked her head away from him.

It took Joe all he had in him to fight the rage inside of him at seeing Damion put his hand on her.

Damion gazed into Alice’s eyes as if he was in a hypnotic trance. “It’d be such a waste, but.…it is what my brother wanted.” Damion turned to Joe and said, “Of course that will be your decision, Mr. Cartwright.”

Joe looked at him puzzled.

Damion told him, “You choose who lives and who dies.”

Joe stared at him in disbelief. “What?”

“Your wife or your brother. Who is most precious to you? Either way my brother will be avenged.”

“You’re insane. There’s no way I can make that kind of decision!”

“You have exactly one minute to decide, Mr. Cartwright.” Joe stood frozen, his heart pounding in his chest. Damion said, “Time is wasting.”

Adam spoke up. “Wait.”

Damion looked over at Adam who slowly got up from the ground. Hank pointed his gun at him. 

Adam paused before he said, “It’s me you want, isn’t it? I killed your brother. So let the girl go and kill me instead.”

Damion studied him questionably and said, “How very noble of you, Mr. Cartwright. Your bravery is commendable. Hanley….”

“No,” Adam said. “He was your brother. You do it.”

Damion stood there perplexed.

Adam then said, “You can’t do it, can you? You have to get one of your lackey’s to do it for you. They treat you as if you’re some kind of god. They beg for your mercy. If you’re so powerful, why not kill me yourself? An eye for an eye right?” 

“That’s what the Bible says. I have the right.” 

“Yes, and the Bible also says, “Vengeance is mine saith the Lord.” But maybe you’re not as powerful as you say you are. Maybe you’re just a coward.” 

Damion clenched his hands around the rifle as he shook his head. “No. I’m not a coward.” His hands trembled as he pointed the rifle at Adam. “I could kill you right now. I don’t need anyone. Not Hank, not Krater, not even that dumb brute, Hanley.”

Adam raised his voice at him. “Then do it!”

“An eye for an eye.…”

Damion yelled in a rage when Hanley, who had finally seen Damion for what he truly was, smashed a rock over his head. Damion fell to the ground as blood splattered over the rocks. 

Joe and Alice looked down at Damion’s body in shock. Hank pointed his gun at Hanley when Joe shot the gun out of his hand. 

Joe said, “Untie my brother now.” 

Hank untied the ropes holding Adam’s hands. Joe then said, “Turn around.”

Hank turned around and Adam bound Hank’s hands with the rope while Joe went over to Alice and untied her hands. 

She turned around and wrapped her arms around Joe. “Oh, Joe, I was so afraid they’d killed you.”

“I’m alright.” He took her face in his hands and asked, “Did they hurt you?”

“No. I’m fine.”

Joe smiled and kissed her.

Joe and Adam bound Hanley’s hands and put him on a horse along with Hank. Adam explained to Joe how he’d ended up there.

“I started tracking Damion when I saw him with Alice. I didn’t exactly have a plan, but I had to make sure he didn’t hurt her.”

Joe smiled as he placed his hand on Adam’s shoulder. “Thanks. I owe you a lot.”

They met up with Candy who was guarding Krater. After they placed Krater on a horse, Joe introduced Candy to Adam. 

Adam shook Candy’s hand and said, “Candy, yes, my pa told me about you. He said you were in the Army. Where were you stationed?” 

“Fort Delaney, but we called it Fort Despair.” 

“Sounds like a nice place,” Adam remarked. He looked over at Hank, Hanley, and Krater and told Joe, “We better get them to Clem.”

“Right.” Joe turned and smiled at Alice. He wrapped his arm around her shoulder and said, “Let’s go.”

Joe mounted Cochise and then helped Alice up. Candy helped Adam onto the back of his horse. Joe turned his head to Alice and said, “I’ll take it slow. Hold on tight.”

She smiled as she wrapped her arms around his waist and gently laid her head against his back.

Joe and Candy took off on their horses while pulling Hank, Hanley and Krater. 

Alice breathed a sigh of relief as she held onto the man she loved, safe and sound.

***

The Cartwrights and Candy returned to Virginia City. Joe and Adam had delivered Damion’s men over to Clem and in return Clem gave Joe and Alice some disappointing news. 

“We’ve been unable to find the diamond necklace,” Clem said. “We checked all the jewelry stores in San Francisco, but we’ve come up with nothing. I’m sorry, Joe.”

“It’s all right, Clem,” Joe looked at Alice and smiled. He said, “I’ve got something way more valuable back.”

Alice smiled as Joe kissed her forehead.

Clem said, “Thanks for your help in finding them and bringing them here, Joe.” He held his hand out to him.

“You’re welcome, Clem. I’ll be seeing you.” Joe then opened the door for Alice as Clem said goodbye to them.

Joe and Alice then headed out of Clem’s office and saw Adam leaning against a wooden post, holding his black hat in his hands. He turned to them as he asked, “Ready?”

“Yeah,” Joe said. “Are you gonna stop by and say goodbye to everyone before you leave?”

Adam moved away from the post and looked down. “Well….” He looked up at them and smiled. “Of course I will.”

Joe smiled and Adam said as he put his hat on, “We better get going. You know how Pa gets when we’re late.”

“Right.” Joe put his arm around Alice as he said to her, “Let’s go.”

They all then headed back to the Ponderosa for supper.

Chapter Six 

Several months passed and Spring began. Adam had gone back home, overseas, to his wife, Emily. The room for Joe and Alice’s baby was also finally completed. They waited in anticipation for the baby to arrive.

One afternoon, Ben, Candy, and Joe were out in the pines where timber was being cut down. Ben gave one of his hired hands instructions.

“I’ll get started on that right away, Mr. Cartwright.” 

“Thank you, Will,” Ben replied.

Joe and Candy were nearby sawing through a big log with a long hacksaw.

After they finished, Joe wiped the sweat from his brow. “This one’s done, Pa.”

“Alright, good, Joseph.”

Joe asked, “Do you mind if I go home and check on Alice?”

Ben shook his head. “Oh, no, of course, go right ahead.”

Joe patted his shoulder. “Thanks, Pa.”

Candy said, “I’ll bet you’re anxious for that baby to get here, huh?”

Joe chuckled and said, “Not as anxious as Alice is, I can tell ya.” He mounted up onto Cochise. “I’ll see you in a bit, Pa,” Joe said.

“See ya, Joe.”

When Joe got home, he opened the door and called out to Alice.

“In here,” she responded.

Joe saw her standing in the kitchen adding potatoes into a pot on the stove. He came up to her and placed his hand over her round belly as he kissed her forehead. He asked, “Have you felt any kicking at all?”

“Only about every five minutes,” she replied in annoyance, which caused Joe to giggle. She then asked as he went to wash his hands in the bowl of water behind him, “What are you doing back so soon?”

“Oh, I just wanted to stop by and see how you were doing,” he replied.

“Well, other than the fact I can barely get around anymore, I’m fine,” she remarked.

Joe gave that same boyish giggle as he wiped his hands on a towel. He told her, “Pa and I have to make a run into town for some more supplies. We should be back around supper time.”

Alice suddenly stopped stirring and then placed her hand on her belly.

Joe tossed the towel off to the side and said, “I should probably head back now. I’ll see you later.” He went back over to her and kissed her. “Love you.” He headed over to the door when Alice spoke up.

“Uh, Joe?” 

Joe’s hand was on the doorknob as he turned around to Alice. “Yeah?”

She tried to stay calm as she said, “While you’re in town, could you have Doc Martin stop by here for a visit?”

He chuckled a bit as he replied, “Doc Martin? What reason would we need him over here for, other than….” He stopped when it suddenly hit him what she meant.

“You mean, it’s…?”

A smile spread across her face as she nodded.

He hurried over to her and took her face in his hands. His voice trembled as he asked, “Are you sure?”

“Uh huh.”

“Are you really sure?” he asked again.

“Yes, I’m really sure.”

His face lit up with a smile and he kissed her.

“The doctor, Joe.”

“Right, right, the doctor.” He started backing away slowly as he told her, “I’ll get him. You just stay right there, don’t move. I’m gonna tell Pa.” He quickly opened the door and said, “I love you.”

She smiled.

Joe came galloping fast on Cochise as he screamed for Ben. “Pa! Hey, Pa!”

Ben and Candy stopped what they were doing and looked up, startled.

“What is it, Joe?”

“It’s Alice. I need to go get Doc Martin. It’s time.”

A big smile spread across Ben’s face. He announced to his hands, “Well, what are we standing around here for then? Fellas, why don’t you take the rest of the day off? I’m about to have a grandchild.” 

They all cheered and scattered as Joe rode off to Virginia City to get Doc Martin.

***

Later that night, Alice moaned through another contraction.

Joe sat by her bedside and held her hand. He asked Doc Martin who was standing at the foot of the bed, “How much longer?”

Doc Martin looked at his pocket watch and replied, “It shouldn’t be long now.”

Alice looked at Joe and smiled as she said to him through labored breaths, “I’m alright.”

Joe gave a nervous smile and responded, “I know you are.”

Alice was then hit with another contraction and she yelped out in pain as she gripped tightly onto Joe’s hand. “It’s coming now. The baby’s coming,” she cried.

Doc Martin said, “It’s time now, Joe.”

Joe looked at Alice and said, “You’re gonna be fine, you hear me?”

She nodded.

Joe leaned in and kissed her forehead and then let go of her hand. He headed to the door, but stopped and turned back around to Doc Martin. He asked him in a shaky voice, “Are you sure there’s nothing I can do?” 

Doc Martin shook his head. “No, I can take it from here, Joe. She’ll be all right.”

Joe nodded and left the room.

While outside the bedroom door, Joe sighed and paced back and forth.

Ben and Candy walked into the house.

“How is she?” Ben asked.

Joe tried to keep his voice steady as he replied, “She’s alright.”

Ben asked, “How long until….”

Joe shook his head. “I don’t know, she….” Joe stopped mid-sentence and turned when he heard a baby wailing.

A smile spread across his face and he tried to keep calm as he hurried over to the bedroom door. 

Doc Martin came out of the bedroom wiping his hands with a towel.

“Doc, my wife, is she….”

“She’s fine. You have a healthy baby girl.”

Joe’s face lit up with joy as he said, “A girl.” He slowly smoothed his hair back as he turned around and said to Ben, “I have a girl, Pa.”

Ben chuckled with joy as Joe embraced him. Candy smiled and patted Joe’s shoulder. “Congrats, Joe.”

“Thanks.”

Ben said, happily, “I have a granddaughter.”

Joe stepped into the bedroom and saw Alice holding their newborn daughter in her arms. Alice looked up and gave a tired smile as she said to him, “Come over here and meet your daughter.”

Joe took a seat on the edge of the bed. He moved his hand and gently pulled the blanket down and saw his newborn daughter looking up at him. 

Alice looked down at the baby and said, “Say hi to Daddy.” She gave a soft giggle. 

Joe looked at Alice and smiled. “She’s beautiful.” He placed his hand up to her face as he asked her, “Are you all right?”

“I’m fine.” She chuckled. As Joe leaned to give her a soft kiss, Alice said, “She just needs a name now.”

Joe looked down at the baby. Alice asked, “Well, any ideas?”

Joe tilted his head slightly.

Alice then asked him, “What are you thinking about?”

“What was your mother’s name?”

“Sara.”

Joe smiled as he had just thought of the perfect name for her.

Ben and Candy were waiting outside the door when Joe came out of the bedroom carrying his baby girl in his arms.

“Pa? “You wanna meet your granddaughter?” 

Ben said, “Let me see her.” He looked down at the baby and smiled. “She’s beautiful.”

Candy looked at her and smiled as he remarked, “Hey, good news, Joe, she doesn’t look a thing like you.”

Joe gave him an annoyed smirk. “Thanks. And to think I was gonna ask you to be her godfather.”

Candy chuckled a bit. “Wait, are you serious?”

“Well, of course I am. She’s already got two uncles and you’re the closest friend I’ve got. We consider you a member of this family, don’t we, Pa?”

“That we do, Joseph,” Ben replied as he patted Candy on the back.

“So what do you say?”

Candy stood there at a loss for words as he was touched by the gesture.

“Alright. Yeah, I’d be honored.”

“Good. Would you like to hold her, Pa?”

“You bet I would. Give her to me.”

Ben held his arms out and Joe gently handed her over.

Candy raised his hand and said, “I’m next since I’m the godfather.” They all chuckled.

Ben looked down at his granddaughter with adoration. “Hello my little darling. You know, Joseph, I see a bit of your mother in her.”

Joe smiled and said, “It’s great to hear you say that, Pa, because we thought of a name for her.”

“Oh?”

“We’re naming her Sara Marie.” 

Ben struggled to hold back tears as he said, “That’s a beautiful name.” Ben said to himself, “Sara Marie.” She fell asleep in her grandfather’s arms.

Chapter Seven 

Joe was back in his old bedroom at the Ponderosa a week later, going through his things.

Ben appeared at the door carrying a load of boxes in his hands. He knocked on the side of the door.

Joe turned and saw him standing there. “It’s open. You can come in.”

Ben walked through the door and set the boxes down on the bed.

“You know it is your house, Pa, you don’t have to knock.”

“Well, it’s a habit, I suppose.” Ben gave a soft chuckle as he placed the boxes onto the bed.

Joe asked, “What’s all this?”

“Oh, I picked up a few things for my granddaughter. You know, things she might need.”

“Oh.” Joe looked at the size of the boxes and put his hands on his hips. He nodded his head towards them and asked, “You think she’s got enough, Pa?”

Ben shrugged his shoulders. “Well, I know it seems like a bit much.” Ben noted Joe had folded arms and said, “All right, so I went a little overboard. I guess I just couldn’t help myself.”

“It’s fine, Pa. It’s funny, I told Alice if we had a girl you’d spoil her.”

“Well, I am her grandfather after all.”

“Yeah, well, I would ease up a little on the spoiling. I already went a little overboard myself and Alice got onto me about it.”

Ben chuckled and said, “I’m afraid that child has got a hold on us already.”

“That she has, Pa.”

“She is my first grandchild.”

Joe held his index finger up. “Ah, don’t forget Adam’s boy, the second Adam Cartwright.”

“Oh, that’s right. Adam Jr.” Ben shook his head. “Well, make that my first granddaughter then.”

 Joe smirked and Ben started chuckling. Joe looked at him puzzled. “What?”

 “You know, it’s funny, Joseph.”

 “What is?” Joe asked.

 “I find it sort of ironic that you were the one to have a girl.”

 “Why’s that?” Joe asked.

 “I can’t help but think about all of those young ladies you used to court when you were a young man and there were quite a few.”

 Joe looked down with a sideways smirk and then looked back up at him as he asked, “Your point?”

Ben nodded. “I can’t help but think of all of those fathers and how they must have felt about you with their daughters.” Ben then placed his hand on Joe’s shoulder. “And now you’re one of those fathers, Joseph.”

 Ben patted his shoulder. Joe’s eyes widened a bit and his expression turned to dread as he swallowed. He stammered, “Yeah, but that won’t be for a while though, right?” 

 “Of course, of course, not for a long while,” Ben responded.

 “Maybe longer,” said Joe.

Ben said, “I also can’t think of a better father. I’m proud of you, son.”

 Joe gave a warm smile. “Thanks, Pa.” He pulled him in for an embrace. “You know, it’s still hard for me to believe. I haven’t stopped staring at her since she was born. I just can’t believe she’s real. And she’s mine.”

 Ben smiled and placed his hand on his shoulder. “Now you know how I felt the day you were born. There’s no greater feeling in the world.”

 Jamie interrupted. “Pa? A man from the Cattlemen’s Association is here to see you.”

 “Oh, yes. Tell him I’ll be down in a moment.”

 “Okay.” Jamie left the room.

Ben said to Joe, “I shouldn’t keep him waiting. But I want you to know that if you ever need anything, this is still your home.”

 “I know,” Joe said. 

After Ben left the room, Joe took a look around. He picked up the photo of Hoss that sat on top of the nightstand. He tried to fight back the tears that began to form as he looked down at the photo, thinking how happy Hoss would have been to have a niece. And how great of an uncle he would have been to Sara Marie. Joe turned the photo slightly and then finished going through the rest of his things.

 ***

A few nights later at Joe and Alice’s house, Alice had awakened to find Joe wasn’t in bed. She got up and grabbed her robe as she headed out of the bedroom. She saw the door to the nursery opened slightly. She walked over to the doorway and saw Joe kneeling down by Sara Marie’s cradle. She smiled and knelt down next to him. “What are you doing?”

 Joe quickly turned his head, startled. “Oh. Hi,” he said.

 “Hi,” she giggled.

 Joe looked back down at the baby. Alice smirked and said, “You didn’t answer my question.”

 “Hm? Oh. Your question, right. I just thought I would check on the baby, you know, make sure she’s alright.”

 “Oh.” She looked down at Sara Marie who was sound asleep. “She looks all right to me.”

 Joe looked at her and said, “She looks alright now, but she’ll be crying for us soon enough, just you wait.”

 “I think you’re just using that as an excuse so you can stare at her some more. Aren’t you?” She lightly knocked him in the shoulder with her elbow. He smirked.

 “All right, you caught me. I guess I just can’t help it. It’s hard not to stare at her.”

 She smiled. “It’s all right. I know what you mean.”

“I guess it’s still hard for me to imagine that this is my life now. I mean a husband and a father. It’s like I’m living a dream.” He wrapped his arm around her and said, “And then I look at you and I know I’m not dreaming.” She smiled as she leaned her head against his and he kissed her forehead.

 He whispered to her, “Forever.”

 She looked into his eyes as she said back to him, softly, “Forever.”

 They kissed. Alice leaned her head against his shoulder as they looked back down at their daughter still sound asleep in her cradle.

 Epilogue

Ben sat on the porch and happily watched his grandchildren playing. He looked to his left and saw his sons, Adam and Joe, with their wives, Emily and Alice at the table talking and laughing with one another along with Candy and Jamie. Alice was expecting again.

 Ben beamed with pride and happiness, watching his family all together at the Ponderosa, the home he had built with his own hands. It had all started with a dream and it turned out to be so much more than he had ever imagined. This was his legacy. And that he thought was a true bonanza.

 The End