Summary: Alice Cartwright’s life is turned upside down when her estranged uncle arrives in town, carrying a dark secret. This story is part of my Forever Reimagined series and takes place a few months after the events of Vengeance is Mine. 

Rating: PG 

Word Count: 14,086

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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)

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Chapter One 

Three months had passed since Joe and Alice welcomed their first child; a daughter they named Sara Marie. They were happily living in their house built on a piece of Ponderosa land that Ben had given them. 

Meanwhile, Alice’s uncle, William Harper had received word that his niece had gotten married and was now living in Virginia City. Will hadn’t seen Alice since she was a young girl and he wondered what had become of her and her brother. 

Will traveled by stagecoach from New York and arrived in Virginia City, eager to see Alice again. 

***

It was mid-morning on the Ponderosa. Ben descended the staircase when he heard a knock at the door. He answered the door and Will took a few steps towards Ben—removing his hat. 

“Good afternoon, is this the Cartwright residence?” 

“Yes it is, I’m Ben Cartwright. What can I do for you?” 

“Well, I’m looking for a Joseph Cartwright. I believe he’s my niece’s husband.” 

Ben crinkled his eyebrows. “Your niece?” 

“Yes, oh….” Will put his hand up to his head in embarrassment. “Forgive me, I haven’t introduced myself. I’m William Harper.” 

Will held his hand out to Ben. 

Ben, still puzzled, said, “Harper? Wait a minute. Are you Alice’s uncle?” 

“That’s right,” Will said. 

“Oh, well….” Ben gave a soft chuckle as he shook Will’s hand. “This is quite a surprise. Alice never told us she had an uncle.” 

“Well, that’s sort of my fault. You see she was a young girl when I saw her last. She might not remember me,” Will told him. 

“Oh, well, I’m not sure about that. Please, come in.” 

Ben motioned his hand towards the living room. 

Will thanked Ben as he stepped inside the house. Ben placed his hands in his pants pockets and asked Will, “So, what are you doing here?” 

“Well, I had gotten word that Alice had gotten married and was now living somewhere in Virginia City, the Ponderosa.” 

“Oh, well, yes, but they don’t actually live here. They live in a house not too far from here.” 

“Oh, are you a relative of theirs?” Will asked. 

“Well, yes, Joseph is my son.” 

“Oh, well, it’s a pleasure to meet you,” Will looked around and asked, “So, is she here?” 

“Well, she was supposed to come by sometime this morning with Joe, but I’m not sure when….” 

Suddenly the door opened. Joe walked in with Alice holding Sara in her arms. Will turned around and took one look at Alice as a big smile spread across his face. “Alice.” Alice looked at Will, perplexed. Will chuckled. “Well, don’t you recognize your own uncle?” 

It suddenly hit Alice who the mysterious man was. She said in disbelief, “Uncle Will?” 

“Yes! Now don’t just stand there, come over here and give your uncle a hug.” 

Will held out his arms to her. Alice handed Sara over to Joe and embraced her uncle. Joe watched them with intrigue as he smiled. 

Will pulled away and said, “Let me look at you. My, you’re all grown up.” 

Alice smiled and turned to Joe. “Oh, Uncle Will. This is my husband, Joe.” 

Will looked at Joe and came up to him. “Ah, yes. It’s a pleasure to meet you, my boy.” Will held his hand out to him. 

Joe adjusted Sara in the crook of his arm and shook Will’s hand. “Pleasure to meet you too, sir.” 

“Well, he’s quite a handsome fellow you picked out,” Will remarked. He looked down at Sara and asked, “And who is this little beauty?” 

“This is Sara,” Joe said. “Our daughter.” 

“Sara?” Will turned to Alice and said, “You named her after your mother. Of course.” 

Alice gave a faint smile and asked, “How did you find me?” 

“Well, I had received a telegram in Albany from an old friend. He made a visit to Virginia City and I was informed that you had gotten married to this Cartwright fellow and were living in this place called the Ponderosa. That’s when I decided to make a trip out here and see how you were doing.” Will looked around and remarked, “But by the looks of this place, I’d say you’re doing quite well.” 

Alice told him, “Well, you are right that I’m doing well, but I actually don’t live here.” 

“Oh, I know. Your father-in-law told me you have a house not too far from here.” 

Joe spoke up. “Yeah, I can show you right now. In fact, why don’t you join us for supper.” 

Alice nodded in agreement. “Yes, we’d love to have you.” 

Joe handed Sara back over to Alice and suggested, “Why don’t we head over to our place now.” 

Joe, Alice, and Will were getting ready to leave when Ben spoke up. 

“Just a moment. I have a better idea. Why don’t we all have supper here? Give us a chance to get acquainted with one another, after all we are family.” 

Will said with hesitation in his voice, “Well….” 

“Uh, I wouldn’t say no if I was you,” Joe told him. 

Will agreed. “All right, I’d be delighted.” 

“Good,” Ben said with a chuckle. “I’ll go inform Hop Sing we have a guest.” 

Will said with curiosity, “Hop Sing?” 

Ben said, “Yes, he’s our cook and he has a particular way of doing things that…well, you’ll find that out later.” 

Ben headed into the kitchen. Alice suggested, “Why don’t I make us some tea.” 

Joe held his hand up. “I will make the tea, you just stay here and visit with your uncle, huh?” 

Alice rolled her eyes and sighed. “Oh, all right.” 

Joe gave her a kiss and walked into the kitchen while Alice visited with her uncle. 

***

Later that evening, the Cartwrights were gathered around the dining room table along with Will. 

Hop Sing came up to Will and asked, “How you like your chicken and dumplings? Good?” 

“Yes, very good. You’re a fine cook, Hop Sing.” 

Hop Sing smiled. “Oh, thank you, Alice Uncle.” Hop Sing pointed his finger at him. “I make you apple pie for dessert.”

“Oh, no. I couldn’t eat another bite,” Will said with a chuckle. 

“It no trouble at all. I make it for you.” 

Ben said to Will after Hop Sing went back into the kitchen, “I should warn you never to argue with Hop Sing. You’ll never win.” 

Will chuckled. “I’ll keep that in mind.” 

Ben took a sip of tea and asked, “So where are you from?” 

“Well, Albany originally, but then I moved to Chicago to be near my brother, George, Alice’s father. We ran a furnishing business together. He was a very good craftsman, but we sort of had a falling out. You see, I had a bit of a gambling problem and Sara, Alice’s mother, didn’t approve. She felt I was throwing away the good hard earned money we had put into our business which eventually fell through and we stopped speaking for a time. That was all when Alice was only sixteen. Then a few years later, I was informed that George and Sara had been killed in a terrible accident.” 

Joe glanced over at Alice. It was the first time he had heard of how her parents died. He could tell she was trying hard to fight back tears. 

Will said, “I had wanted to see Alice and her brother, but I just couldn’t get away. Then I quit gambling and that’s when I heard she had moved to Virginia City. I just couldn’t pass up the opportunity to see her again.” Will hesitated before he told Ben, “Now I work for a big law firm in Albany. So I guess you can say I’m doing quite well.” 

Ben gave a small smile. “Well, that’s wonderful to hear. And any relative of Alice’s is always welcome here.” 

“Well, I thank you very much,” Will replied. He looked at Alice and asked, “So, Alice. Have you heard from your brother lately? I was hoping to pay him a visit.” 

Alice swallowed and looked down at the napkin in her lap. “He died last year.” Will’s mouth opened in shock. Alice then told him, “Like you, he let his gambling addiction take over his life and it eventually got him killed. I guess it runs in the family.” Her lip quivered. Joe reached over and placed a comforting hand over hers. “I’m sorry. I’m afraid I’m not feeling very well, excuse me.” 

Alice got up from her seat along with Joe. She wiped at her tears and hurried out the door. Joe excused himself and went after Alice. 

While outside, Alice stood on the porch and rested her hands over the railing as she tried to compose herself. Joe came out of the house. 

“Alice?” Alice’s head perked up at Joe’s voice, but she didn’t turn around. Joe came up to her and gently placed his hands over her shoulders. “Are you all right?” 

Alice gave a small smile as she nodded. “I guess it’s still a shock for me; seeing my uncle again after all these years.” 

Joe leaned back against the table behind him. “Were you close to him?” he asked. 

“Not really, no. I only saw him on occasion at Christmases and birthdays. He’d always stop by with a present for me and John. He and my father were very close though.” 

Joe crossed his arms. “Is that why you never told me about him?” 

Alice bit her lip and responded, “I don’t really know why I didn’t tell you to be honest. I guess I just assumed he was dead like all the rest of my family. But now that I know he’s still alive, a part of me is happy. I also can’t help but feel a bit angry.” 

“Why’s that?” Joe asked. 

Alice shrugged her shoulders. “Well, maybe if I had known he was still alive, he might have been there for me and my brother. And maybe he would have prevented him from getting into trouble. And I wouldn’t have had to take care of him all those years….then maybe he wouldn’t have had to die,” she said, her voice nearly a whisper. 

“Yeah, but you can’t know that for sure,” Joe said.  

“I know.” Alice looked over at Joe and smiled. “Then again, we might not have ever moved to Virginia City.” She walked over to Joe and leaned into him while Joe wrapped his hand securely around her waist. Alice said, “And I might not have ever met you. So I guess you could say what I went through with my brother was worth all of that pain and heartache. Because it led me to you.” 

Joe smiled as he and Alice gazed into each other’s eyes. They leaned in and kissed. Joe laid his head against hers and said, “Why don’t we head back inside? Let everyone know that you’re all right, huh?” 

“Okay,” she said, softly. 

Joe gently rubbed her shoulder. “Come on.” 

Joe wrapped his arm around Alice’s shoulder and she laid her head down against it before they headed back into the house. 

Inside, Ben and Will sat in the living room when they heard the door open and saw Joe and Alice walk through the door. Ben and Will both got up from their seats and walked over to them. 

“I’m sorry if I upset you, darling. I didn’t mean to,” Will said. 

Alice gave a small smile. “It’s all right. I am happy to see you, Uncle Will. I really am.” 

“And I’m happy to see you again, my dear.” Will placed his hands on her shoulders and said, “Well, I should probably head over to the hotel and get settled.” 

Ben spoke up. “Now, why would you want to stay in a hotel, when you can stay right here. We have plenty of room.” 

“Oh, well, I don’t want to impose,” Will said. 

“Nonsense, I told you you’re family, now I won’t hear any arguing.” 

Will smiled. “Thank you.” 

Ben said, “I’ll have Hop Sing show you to your room.” 

“Oh, I can do that, Ben,” Alice said. 

She ascended the stairs with Will trailing behind her. Ben turned to Joe and asked, “How is she doing?” 

“We had a talk, she’s fine now. I think it’s just all a little overwhelming for her right now.” 

Ben looked up at the staircase. “Well, I’d imagine so. An uncle she hasn’t seen in years. Him bringing up painful memories for her. It’s bound to be affecting her.” 

“Yeah…Pa? Do you mind if Alice and I spend the night here?” 

Ben shrugged his shoulders. “Well, you won’t hear any objections from me, this is still your home.” 

“Thanks, I just thought, you know, maybe it’d be good for Alice to be near her uncle. Get to know him again,” Joe told him. 

Ben gave a small smile. “I think that’s a wonderful idea.” 

“I’ll just tell Alice you have a lot of work for me to do tomorrow so it’s best we sleep here.” 

Ben tilted his head to the right. “Well, you wouldn’t exactly be lying, Joseph. I do have a lot of work for you tomorrow.” He patted Joe’s shoulder. 

Joe gave a soft chuckle. “Goodnight, Pa.” 

“Goodnight,” Ben said with a chuckle. 

Joe headed up the stairs. 

Meanwhile, Alice showed Will to one of the guest rooms. She opened the door and Will stepped inside. 

Will scanned the room. Alice said, “This is one of the guest rooms.” 

“It’s nice,” Will said. 

Alice gave a small smile and told him, “If you need anything, just let Ben know.” 

Will thanked her. Alice gripped the handle of the doorknob, her palms beginning to sweat. “Well, goodnight.” 

Alice started to leave the room when Will spoke up. 

“Alice? I know there’s no way I can make up for all those years we lost, but I’d like to try. If you’re willing.” 

Alice paused and said with a smile, “I’m willing.” 

Will smiled and walked up to her. He took hold of her shoulders and kissed her forehead. “Goodnight, darling.” 

After Alice left the room, Will’s whole demeanor changed and he became filled with guilt. He hadn’t exactly been completely honest with her. He wasn’t doing well for himself; not well at all.  

Chapter Two

The next morning at the crack of dawn, Alice was asleep in bed when Joe opened the door. He smiled and walked up to Alice’s bedside, taking a seat on the edge of the bed. He stared at her with a loving gaze before he leaned in and kissed her. Alice stirred and opened her eyes. 

“Well, good morning, Mrs. Cartwright.” 

“Mm, morning,” she yawned. “You’re up early.” 

“Yeah, I thought I’d get an early start, but I wanted to make sure to say goodbye to my beautiful wife before I head out,” Joe told her. 

Alice smiled. “How’s the baby?” 

“She’s fine. She’s sleeping like a baby.” 

Alice let out a soft chuckle and asked, “Are you sure you can’t stay a little while longer and have breakfast?” 

Joe gently rubbed her arm. “No, the earlier the better. But I’ll be back as soon as I can. I’ll have Hop Sing fix you something, okay?” 

“Okay.” Alice placed her hand up to the side of his face and told him, “I’ll miss you.” 

“I’ll miss you too,” he said, softly. They exchanged a long lingering kiss. Joe pulled away and remarked, “You know, you can’t miss me if I don’t leave.” A soft giggle escaped Alice’s lips. “I’ll see you later.” Joe gave her another quick kiss and headed to the door. He stopped at the door and took one last look at Alice before he hurried back over to her and kissed her again making Alice laugh. 

“Joe….” 

“I’m going now, I’m going. Go back to sleep. Love you.” 

“Love you,” she said with a giggle before she laid her head back down and drifted off to sleep. 

Outside, Candy waited for Joe next to the hitching post, nearly falling asleep against it. Joe came up to Candy and patted him on the shoulder, startling him. 

“Come on, we better get a move on before daylight.” 

Candy yawned as he trailed over to his horse. He rubbed the back of his head and asked, “Remind me again why you had to drag me out of bed so early in the morning?” 

Joe grabbed the reins of Cochise. “I wanted to give Alice some time alone with her uncle. Give her a chance to get to know him again.” 

“Well, he’s her uncle, not mine,” Candy grumbled before mounting onto his horse. 

Joe gave a soft chuckle and mounted onto Cochise. He suggested, “How about I buy you a beer to make up for it, huh?”

“I don’t need beer, I need coffee and plenty of it,” Candy responded, making Joe giggle. 

Candy steered his horse and he and Joe took off in the direction of town. 

***

Later that morning, Will took a look around the living room of the Ponderosa. He came up to Ben’s desk and saw the photographs of Ben’s wives. He then glanced at the map overlooking the desk. 

Alice descended the stairs. Will turned around and greeted her. 

“Well, good morning,” he said. 

“Good morning.” Alice came up to him and told him, “Joe left early this morning. He had some business to attend to for his pa, so he won’t be back until later on this evening.” 

“Oh, well, that’s fine. I was just taking a look around. It’s a nice house; nice family. They certainly know how to make a man feel welcome.” 

“Well, you were just introduced to the famous Cartwright hospitality,” Alice said. Will gave a soft chuckle when little Sara Marie’s cries rang out from upstairs. 

Alice sighed. “Oh. Excuse me.” 

“Mind if I come with you? I haven’t really had much time to get to know my great-niece yet.” 

Alice smiled. “Not at all.” 

After Alice and Will ascended the stairs, Alice led Will into Joe’s old bedroom. Alice came up to Sara’s cradle and gently picked her up in her arms. Alice quieted Sara’s cries as she rocked her back and forth, turning them into soft coos. 

Will watched her in awe and said, “You’re a natural with her.” 

Alice gave a shy smile. “It’s not easy, believe me.” Alice looked over at Will and asked, “Would you like to hold her?” 

“Of course.” 

Alice handed Sara over to Will. He looked down at her and smiled. “Just look at her.” Sara looked up at Will with wide sparkling green eyes. “I think she favors her mother, don’t you think?” 

Alice chuckled. “Well, I hate to disappoint you, but she’s her father’s daughter.” Alice took Sara out of Will’s arms and placed her back down in her cradle. “Well, since Joe won’t be back for a while, I can take you on a tour of the Ponderosa if you’d like.” 

“That’d be wonderful.” 

“I’ll ask Mrs. Bennett to look after Sara while we’re gone, then I’ll have Jamie get the buggy ready.” 

***

A little while later, Alice took Will on a tour of the Ponderosa. Alice drove the buggy around different spots that Joe would always take her to. Alice parked the buggy next to a tree and she showed Will a little spot near the lake. Alice and Will walked across a bed of rocks and came up to a stream. 

“This is one of Joe’s favorite spots to go fishing. He would come here often with his brother when they were kids. Now Joe loves to take me.” 

“Ah, yes, I remember how much you used to love fishing as a young girl,” Will said as he took a seat on one of the rocks. 

“I still love it,” Alice responded. 

Will rested his hands in his lap. “So, tell me about this Joe fellow. How did you two meet?” 

“We met shortly after John and I arrived in Virginia City,” Alice told him as she sat down on a big rock in front of her uncle. “John had gotten into a fight over a poker game. He was drunk. That’s how it always was with him. Joe had brought him home that night. It was the first time anyone had ever done that for him before. But I misunderstood his intentions and he got angry as he had every right to be. I immediately apologized and he accepted. He later came to this little boutique I was working at and asked me out to dinner. There was just something different about him that drew me to him. Maybe it was his kindness, his gentleness; his smile. Not to mention he was quite handsome. He didn’t mind me telling him my troubles. He listened to me and actually seemed to care. I knew I wanted to see him again. And that’s when I started falling in love with him. And now no words can ever express how much I love him.” 

“Well, there’s no doubt about that,” Will responded. “I saw the way you were looking at each other at dinner. I can tell he adores you. 

Alice gave a small smile. “So do I. He’s been a wonderful husband to me. He takes care of me; more than I’d like him to at times.” 

“Well, as long as you’re happy, dear,” Will said.

“I am. I’m very happy. Happier than I’ve been in my entire life,” she told him.

Will smiled. “I’m glad to hear it.” 

Alice smoothed out her skirt and pushed herself up from the rock. “Well, we should probably head back to the ranch. Joe will be back soon.” 

“All right.” 

Alice and Will headed back over to the buggy. 

***

Over the next several days, Alice continued to spend time with her uncle and began to repair their relationship that had been lost over those eight years he had been out of her life. Alice finally started to feel at ease and enjoyed his company. 

One afternoon, Alice took her uncle up to a pasture. They overheard some of the ranch hands whooping, hollering and cheering. 

“Now what do you suppose that’s all about?” Will asked. 

“You’ll see,” Alice replied with a grin as they came up to a stable. 

Inside the stable, Candy was riding one of the new Broncos, Renegade, who tossed Candy around as he held on for dear life. 

Joe and Jamie were on the other side of the stable, cheering him on. 

“Come on, Candy, stay with him now!” Joe shouted. 

Candy thrashed around on top of Renegade. 

Alice said to Will from a distance, “You’re about to see what my husband does for a living.” 

Candy was thrown off Renegade and he hit the ground hard, rolling over in the dirt. 

Alice gasped softly. “I always dread that part.” 

One of Ben’s hands, Luke, helped Candy back up. He bent down to pick up his hat and swiped it across his pants. He then put it back on his head as he limped his way over to Joe and Jamie. 

Joe chuckled. “I think you wore him down pretty good now.” 

Candy snorted. “Are you kidding? Nobody can tame that beast. I’d have better luck taming a grizzly bear.” 

Joe tilted his head to the right. “I don’t know.” He pointed his finger at Candy. “I betcha five dollars I can tame him faster than you can.” 

Candy glanced over at Renegade and back at Joe. “All right, you’re on,” he said with a wide grin. 

Joe patted Candy’s shoulder. “Just watch the master at work.” 

Candy rolled his eyes and Joe stepped inside the stable. 

Jamie stared at Renegade with curiosity and said with confidence in his voice, “I think I could have taken him.” 

Candy looked over at Jamie and scoffed. “Yeah and if your pa found out we let you ride him, he’d have our hides.” 

Jamie slumped his shoulders; knowing his pa like he does, he knew Candy was right. 

In the distance, Will said to Alice in disbelief, “Joe’s really gonna ride that wild animal?” 

“Don’t worry, he’s a professional. He knows what he’s doing. Although it still scares me to death.” 

Inside the stable, Joe mounted onto Renegade. He grabbed hold of the saddle with one hand and held onto his hat with the other. Joe gave a signal and Hal, one of the hands, let go. Joe took off flying as Renegade reared. 

Joe held on for dear life as Jamie cheered him on. “Come on, Joe, you got him!” 

“Come on, Renegade, buck him off!” Candy shouted. 

Joe continued to thrash around as he held onto the saddle until finally Renegade started to calm down. Joe was able to take control of the reins and Renegade slowed down to a trot. 

Jamie shouted at him excitedly, “Yeah, all right, Joe!” 

Candy hung his head down as his shoulders sank and his hands swung loose over the railing. Joe dismounted Renegade and handed the reins over to Hal. He strolled over to Jamie and Candy with a big grin on his face. Candy took a five dollar bill out of his shirt pocket and held it up with a sideways smirk, avoiding eye contact. 

Joe happily took the five dollar bill out of Candy’s hand. “Thank you.” 

Jamie said, “Hey, that was real good ridin’ Joe.” 

“Yeah, and it cost me five bucks,” Candy remarked. 

Joe let out a boyish giggle when he turned around and saw Alice and Will on the other side of the fence. A smile spread across his face as he made his way over to them. 

“Hey, what are you doing all the way out here, huh?” Joe asked. 

Alice answered, “I just wanted to show Uncle Will a little of what being married to a rancher is like.” 

Will added, “Yes, and I must say, Joe, that was very impressive the way you handled that animal.” 

“Well, thank you, sir,” Joe responded with a smile. 

Alice moved closer to him as she wrapped her arms around the fence. “Were you trying to impress me?” she asked. 

Joe pushed his hat up and rested his arms over the fence. “Well, if I had known you were watching, I might have.” 

“It’s quite exciting what you do,” Will said. 

“Yeah, it is until you come home with sore backs,” Joe told him as he placed his hand over his shoulder and moved it around in a circular motion. 

Alice gave a soft chuckle. “Will you be home in time for supper?” 

“Yeah, I won’t be too long,” Joe replied. 

“Well, I’ll be sure to set a plate for you then.” 

Joe smiled. “Thanks. I’ll see you later.” He gave Alice a kiss when he heard some of the hands whistling, whooping and hollering. Joe glanced over at them with a frown. He said goodbye to Alice and Will with an awkward smile. 

As Joe headed back over to the stable, the hands were still snickering. Joe quipped, “Will you all shut up and get back to work?” 

The hands cackled. Alice shook her head with a wide grin and moved away from the fence. 

As they were walking back over to the buggy, Will said to Alice, “Well, it certainly looked like Joe was having fun.” 

Alice knelt down and picked off a yellow wildflower. “Yeah, but it’s no fun for me when I have to clean his clothes.” 

She twirled the flower against her fingertips. Will remarked, “Well, whatever it was he was doing, it was very fascinating to watch.” 

“He was breaking in a new horse. The term is “bustin ‘broncs” for those who live in the country,” Alice told him. 

Will nodded. “Ah. Yes, I have heard the term before. I just never really understood what it meant.” 

Alice told him, “Joe not only busts broncs, he helps buy and sell horses as well as cattle to other ranchers with his pa; even timber. He’s a pretty good negotiator.” 

Will placed his hands in his pockets. “Well, he seems to handle himself pretty well.” 

“So, are you surprised I didn’t end up marrying a city boy?” Alice asked. 

Will gave a soft chuckle. “Not in the least. You always loved the country. I’m surprised you didn’t leave the city a lot sooner.” Alice smiled and Will returned that smile which soon faded. He hung his head down and took a breath. “Which is why it pains me to have to ask you this.” Alice glanced over at Will, holding her breath in anticipation. “Alice, these past few days we’ve spent together; I realize how foolish and selfish I was in not contacting you sooner. I’ve loved getting to know you again and I’ll be back on that stage to Albany in a couple of days and…I want you and Joe to go with me.” 

Alice’s mouth opened in disbelief. “What?” 

Will, with his gaze still fixed on the ground, said, “I know I don’t have any right to ask, but you’re the only family I have left; I want to be a part of your life again.” 

Alice pressed, “But Joe loves the Ponderosa. His family and all of his friends are here. This is his home; our home. I’ve grown to love this place. I can’t leave it.” 

“I know you do. But you can build a life for you, Joe and Sara in Albany too. I know Joe can easily find a job there. You’d be well taken care of and we’ll be near each other.” 

Alice’s mind raced with a million different thoughts at once as they came up to the buggy. Will placed his hands on her shoulders, gently turning her to him. “Please. Just talk it over with Joe. It would mean so much if you came to live with me. Just think about it, all right?” 

Alice promised him she would, but deep down she already had the answer and it wouldn’t be what he had hoped. 

***

The next day, Ben sat at his desk going through the mail when Joe walked through the door. 

Ben lifted his head up and smiled. “Oh hi. I didn’t expect you back until this afternoon.” 

Joe said in a somber tone, “Yeah, Pa, there’s something I need to talk to you about.” 

Ben took notice of his dreary expression and asked in concern, “Is something wrong?” 

Joe took a seat on top of Ben’s desk and sighed. “Well, no, it’s nothing bad, it’s just…well, Alice told me her uncle wanted us to go back with him to Albany and stay with him for a while.” 

“Oh? For how long?” Ben asked. 

Joe hesitated in his response. “Permanently.” Ben’s head perked up. Joe told him, “He wants us to come live with him in Albany.” Ben leaned back against his chair and rubbed his temple. “But if you need me here, I can just tell Alice that….” 

Ben gave a soft chuckle. “Now hold on a minute, Joseph. I don’t want you making any rash decisions on account of me.” 

“I know, but….”

Joe….” Ben got up from his desk and took a few steps around to the front to face Joe. “You’re a grown man now who’s married with a child of your own. I can’t make any decisions for you.” 

Joe hung his head down and responded in a quiet tone, “I know that, Pa,” 

Ben studied him and asked, “How does Alice feel about the idea?” 

Joe sighed. “Well, she hasn’t given any indication either way. Although she didn’t sound too thrilled when she told me. I think she’s worried about me and how I would take us leaving.” 

“That’s because she loves you,” Ben told him. 

Joe shrugged his shoulders. “I don’t even know how I’d feel about living in the city. It would take some getting used to, but I would be willing to do it for her if it means that much to her, you know?”

“Yes, I know.” Ben placed his hand around his shoulder. “Part of marriage is sacrifice.” 

Joe gave Ben his next concern. “I also can’t help but think if we do leave, you won’t be able to see Sara as often anymore.” 

Ben’s heart ached at the thought. Joe sighed. “I don’t know what to do.” 

Ben stared at his son and said, “Well, you have a big decision to make, Joseph. Don’t let me stand in the way of it.” 

He patted his shoulder. Joe gave a small smile. “Thanks, Pa. And don’t worry, Alice and I will visit as often as we can.

Ben looked him sternly in the eye. “You better.” 

Joe chuckled along with Ben. Joe felt a bit at ease at his father’s response, but he still was at a loss on what to do. 

***

Later that night, Joe and Alice laid in bed, wide awake. 

Alice had her head laid gently on Joe’s shoulder with her hand placed over his bare chest while Joe had his arm wrapped around her shoulder. They laid there in silence until Joe broke it. 

“You’re awfully quiet tonight,” he said. 

“So are you,” she responded. 

He looked down at her with a small smile. “I guess we’re both thinking about the same thing, huh?” 

Alice didn’t move or respond which confirmed Joe’s question. Joe told her, “It’s your decision either way. He’s your uncle.” 

“No.” She lifted her head up to face him. 

“It’s our decision. This is where our babies are going to grow up. We should make this decision together.” 

“I know. But I just don’t want you making any decision on account of me; it should be because you want to stay, not because I want to.” 

She tilted her head to the right as she tenderly moved her fingers along his chest. “Well, what if I told you that I did want to stay?” 

“You do?” Joe said with intrigue in his voice. 

Alice smiled. “Yes. I don’t want to leave this place. This is where I met you. And it’s where I want our babies to grow up.” 

“Are you sure?” he asked. 

“I’ve never been more sure of anything in my whole life,” she replied. 

He smiled. “I guess we’re staying then, huh?” 

She returned the smile. “I guess we are.” 

Joe gazed into her eyes. “I love you,” he said, softly. 

“I love you,” she repeated. 

They exchanged a kiss. Joe pulled away and said, “Pa’s gonna be so happy when we tell him.” 

Alice giggled and Joe kissed her again on her forehead. She laid her head back down on his shoulder and it was a restful sleep for them that night. 

Chapter Three

Joe and Alice gave Ben the good news the next day. Ben stood in front of his desk with Joe and Alice standing in front of him. 

“Pa, we have some news to tell you,” Joe said.

“Oh?” Ben crossed his arms.

“Yeah, we….” Joe looked over at Alice who gave him a reassuring smile. Joe put his arm around her shoulder. “We decided to stay, Pa.” 

Ben’s head perked up. “You have?” A smile escaped his lips. “Well, that’s wonderful. I mean…ahem. If that is what you want to do.” 

Joe tried hard to suppress a smirk, knowing his pa all too well. “It’s all right, Pa, you don’t have to hide it from us. We couldn’t be happier about the decision.” 

“Well, as long as you’re both happy about it, that’s what matters,” Ben told them. 

“We are,” Alice said. 

Joe said, “Now you can see Sara all the time. 

“Well, how about right now? Ben suggested before he made a break for the staircase. 

“Oh, no, I just put her down for her nap,” Alice told him with a chuckle. 

Ben, who was halfway up the stairs, turned around and said, “Well, later then.” 

The door opened and Will walked in. 

“Oh, Uncle Will.” Alice went over to him while glancing over at Joe. “Joe and I wanted to talk to you,” she said. 

“Oh? What about?” Will asked. 

“Well, we decided….” Alice scoffed. Joe placed an encouraging hand over her shoulder. She took a deep breath. “We decided to stay here in Virginia City.” 

Will’s shoulders sank a bit. “Oh, well…whatever you think is best.” 

Alice felt a twinge of guilt. “I’m really sorry. I hope you’re not disappointed.” 

Will shook his head. “No, no. As I told you before, I had no right to ask you to come live with me, especially since I haven’t been in your life for quite some time.” 

Joe said, “Well, that doesn’t mean you still can’t come visit us every once in a while.” 

“Yes, we’d love to see you,” Alice told him. 

“Oh, well, thank you.” Will gave a heavy sigh. “Well, I should probably gather my things and be on my way. It’s a long ride back to Albany on the stage.” 

Ben suggested, “Well, there’s no hurry, why don’t you stay and visit with us a little while longer?” 

“Yes, please,” Alice pleaded. 

Will hesitated in his response but he agreed. Ben went into the kitchen to inform Hop Sing. 

Will turned to Alice and said in a nervous tone, “I have some business I need to take care of, so I’m going into town. I should be back later this evening.” 

Joe volunteered, “Oh, why don’t I head over there with ya? Candy and I were going into town anyway.” 

“No, that’s all right. I’ll see you later on tonight.” 

Will grabbed his hat and headed out the door. 

***

Later that evening, Will walked through town and came up to The Bucket of Blood saloon. He heard the faint sounds of saloon music inside along with men laughing, shouting and having a good time. He peeked inside the saloon as guilt consumed him. 

He hadn’t been completely honest with his niece about his gambling problem. The truth was he owed a lot of money to a ruthless businessman named Claude Fairbourne in which he had lost in a poker game. 

He threatened that if Will didn’t get the five-thousand dollars he owed him, he would destroy him and those he loved. 

Will’s true intentions to see Alice again were because of another warning from Claude. 

“Please. I’ll get you the money somehow, I promise you.” 

“I’m tired of your promises, Harper. It’s been nearly a month and I still don’t have my money.” 

“I’m trying, sir, I really am.” 

“What about that niece you told me about? The one who lives in Virginia City and married some rich fellow.” 

“Cartwright.” 

“Yeah. I’ve done dealings in Virginia City so I’m familiar with the Cartwrights. They’ve got plenty of money. I’m sure you can arrange something.” 

“But I haven’t seen my niece in years. It wouldn’t be right for me to ask her for the money.” 

“Well, it’s either that or your life, Harper. You will go into Virginia City and get the money you owe me or else you’re finished. I’ll send one of my associates to make sure you get the job done. And if it isn’t, you know what has to happen. This is your last chance, Harper. I’d advise you not to waste it.” 

Will turned away from the saloon when he heard footsteps. He stopped dead in his tracks, remembering Claude’s warning as it rang out in his mind. 

“I’ll send one of my associates to make sure you get the job done. And if it isn’t, you know what has to happen.” 

Will’s heartbeat sped as he pulled out his gun. With his hands trembling, he aimed it in front of him and pulled the trigger. 

He heard the sound of a yelp and a thud. He slowly placed the gun back in its holster and lurked over to the spot where he fired the shot. He saw a figure lying on the ground. He crept up to it and his heart skipped a beat when he saw that the man lying down on the ground and the one he shot was his niece’s husband, Joe Cartwright. 

His breath shuddered as he bent down to Joe who was lying on his stomach; his left shoulder stained with blood. Will tried to move him. Joe moaned and passed out. Will’s whole body tensed. He got up from the ground and backed away slowly before he took off down the street and into the night. 

Meanwhile, Candy walked out of The Bucket of Blood when he turned to his left and saw a figure lying on the ground a short distance from him. He crinkled his eyebrows slightly and headed over to it. He picked up speed as soon as he caught a glimpse of Joe’s jacket. 

“Joe.” Candy knelt down and saw the blood. With the tips of his fingers, he touched his neck and found a faint pulse. He scanned the area as he moved his hand over the handle of his gun. The streets were quiet and empty. Candy got right back up and sprinted across the street to the office of J.P. Martin. 

Candy and Doc Martin had taken Joe to the Ponderosa. Ben then sent Candy to inform Alice of what happened. 

Upstairs, Ben stood near the dresser in Joe’s old bedroom while Doc Martin treated Joe’s wound. An unconscious Joe laid in bed on his stomach with his shirt off. 

“I was able to remove the bullet before it reached any critical organs. He’s lost a lot of blood though. I would have him stay in bed and rest for a couple of days just to be sure there’s no sign of infection. But other than that, I’d say he’s gonna be just fine.” 

Before Ben could speak, a distraught Alice hurried into the room. 

“Ben?” Ben turned around and Alice fell right into his arms. “Oh, Ben,” she cried. 

Ben wrapped his arms around her. “There, there, now. It’s all right.” 

Alice pulled away from him, her eyes brimming with tears. “Is he….” 

“He’s fine. Doc Martin was able to get the bullet out. He’s going to be alright.” 

“How did this happen?” she asked. 

“I don’t know, but we’re going to find out. Right now, I need you to wait downstairs, all right?” Alice took a breath and tried to calm herself. She glanced over at Joe. Ben said, “He’ll be all right.” 

Alice turned and walked past Candy out the bedroom door. Ben came up to Candy and asked, “Candy, are you sure you didn’t see anyone?” 

“Yeah, I looked all over town. I checked every spot they could have fired the shot, but there wasn’t anything, not even a trail I could follow.” Ben let out a sigh as he placed his hand up to his temple. Candy asked, “Has Joe made any enemies lately? Enough for anyone to want to bushwhack him?” 

“I don’t know.” Ben looked over at Joe as he crossed his arms. “I suppose we’ll find out when he wakes up. I’m sure he’ll tell us everything he knows.” 

Doc Martin said, “Well, that won’t be for quite a while. I gave him a sedative, so he should be out for hours. I’ll be back to check on him later.” 

Ben thanked Doc Martin who then gathered his medical bag and headed out the door. 

Candy rubbed the back of his head. “I’m gonna head back into town and ask around; see if anybody knows anything.” 

“All right, but be careful,” Ben told him. 

“I will.”

Candy headed out the door while Ben stayed by Joe’s bedside. 

Downstairs, Alice sat down on the settee filled with worry over Joe. Hop Sing set a cup of tea down in front of her on the coffee table. 

Hop Sing smiled and said, “Don’t you worry. Little Joe will be all right.” 

Alice looked up at him with tear-stained eyes and a smile formed on her lips. “Thank you, Hop Sing.” 

Alice sniffled. “I don’t understand why this happened. Who would want to kill him? Joe didn’t do anything to hurt anybody.” 

“Little Joe innocent. Whoever hurt him will not get very far.” 

After Hop Sing went back into the kitchen, the door opened and Will walked in. Alice jumped up from her seat and hurried over to him. “Oh, Uncle Will,” she cried and embraced him. 

Will put his arms around her. “What’s happened, dear?” 

“It’s Joe. He’s been shot. Someone tried to kill him.” 

“Shot?” Will said, trying to disguise his guilt. “Good heavens, who would do such a terrible thing?” 

“I don’t know. We won’t know until he wakes up. The doctor said he’s going to be all right. Oh, Uncle Will, I was so frightened.” 

Alice laid her head down on his chest as beads of sweat began to form on Will’s forehead. He said, “I would imagine so. But it’s like the doctor said; he’s going to be all right.” 

Will held Alice close while the weight of what he had done bore down on him. 

The next morning, Joe was finally awake. Doc Martin helped him sit up in bed. He had his shirt off with a bandage over his shoulder. 

“How are you feeling right now? Any pain?” 

Joe winced. “Just about all over doc.” 

“Well, I can give you some laudanum pills to help with the pain. You’ll need to stay in bed for at least a couple of days. Just to make sure there are no signs of infection.” 

“Well, I don’t think that’s necessary, doc, but alright,” Joe told him. 

“Oh, I forgot how stubborn of a patient you are,” Doc Martin responded in a sarcastic tone. 

Joe’s lips formed a smirk when Alice appeared at the door. 

“Joe?” 

Joe looked up at her and his face lit up with a smile. “Hey.” 

Alice stepped into the room and asked, “How are you feeling?” 

“A whole lot better now that you’re here,” he replied. 

Doc Martin excused himself to give them some privacy. After he left the room, Alice took a seat on the edge of Joe’s bed. 

“Oh, Joe, I was so scared. As soon as I found out what happened to you, I was so afraid that….” 

Her breath shuddered as her head fell on his chest. Joe wrapped his arm around her. “Shh. Hey. It’s all right. I’m fine.” He gently stroked her head. “I hope you didn’t spend too much time worrying about me.” 

Alice lifted her head as she sniffled. “Maybe a little.” 

“Or maybe a lot,” he said. 

Alice gave a small smile. “I’m sorry, I just can’t help it.” 

Joe gave her hand a light squeeze when there was a knock at the door. Ben peeked his head in. 

“Hi, Pa,” Joe said with a smile. 

Ben stepped through the door with Deputy Clem Foster trailing behind him.  

“Joe? Clem just wanted to ask you a few questions if you’re up to answering them.” 

“Can’t it wait until later?” Alice asked. “He needs his rest.” 

“It’s all right. I’ll answer them,” Joe said. 

Clem stepped further into the room near Joe’s bedside. “Joe, I wondered if you’d mind telling me everything you remember from last night, that way I can pinpoint where to start.” 

Joe sighed. “Well, I remember taking care of some business with Candy in town. It was getting late and I didn’t want Alice to worry, so I told him I was heading home and he told me he was gonna stay in town a little while longer. As I was walking back to my horse, that’s when I heard a shot and then I blacked out. I don’t remember what happened after that.” 

“Do you remember seeing anyone at all that night?” Clem asked. 

Joe shook his head. “No, it was dark. Whoever it was took a shot at me from behind me so I couldn’t see them.” 

“Do you know of anyone at all who might have wanted you dead for any reason?” 

“No.” 

“Do you think you might have done something to make someone want to kill you?” 

Alice snapped, “He hasn’t done anything to anyone.” 

Clem looked over at Alice and said, “Ma’am, I’m just trying to do my job, that’s all.” 

Joe tried to keep Alice calm. “It’s all right.” He answered Clem’s question. “Not that I know of, no.” 

Clem pressed, “Are you sure?” 

Clem’s questioning further provoked Alice. “That’s enough questions, Clem. Now would you kindly leave my husband alone?” 

Clem gave a frustrated sigh when Ben got his attention. Clem looked at Ben who nodded his head towards the door. They both left the room. 

While outside, Clem said to Ben, “I’m sorry, Ben, I didn’t mean to overstep.” 

“I know, it’s fine. She’s just upset, I wouldn’t take any offense to it,” Ben told him. 

“I know, and I don’t blame her. I’ll see if I can find anything and get back to you. If Joe remembers anything else, tell him to let me know.” 

“I will, Clem, thank you. Candy said he was gonna ask around town and see if anybody knows anything.” 

“Well, be sure to tell him to let me know if he does find anything,” Clem told him. 

Ben thanked him and Clem left the Ponderosa. 

***

Later that afternoon, Will walked around town still overwhelmed with guilt over nearly killing Joe when he heard a group of men talking outside of the sheriff’s office. 

“Do you hear how someone up and bushwhacked Joe Cartwright?” 

“Ben Cartwright’s youngest boy?” 

“Yep. He done shot him right in the back.” 

“Well, it’s about time somebody showed them Cartwrights they don’t own this town.” 

“Horace! Why, that’s a terrible thing to say! You know as well as I do that Ben Cartwright has done nothing but good for this town.”

“Well….” 

“Well, nothing. It still don’t make it right. He’s got a wife and young’un too.” 

“Oh, you know that child ain’t gonna suffer as much money as they got,” Horace retorted. 

They continued squabbling. Will hung his head down when he heard the friendly voice of a man. 

“Howdy.” 

Will’s head snapped up. Candy said, “You must be Alice’ s uncle. Joe told me about you.” 

“Oh, yes. Will Harper.” 

Candy held his hand out and introduced himself. “The name’s Canaday, but you can call me Candy.” Will shook his hand. Candy told him, “I work for the Cartwrights as their foreman.” 

Will nodded. “Oh, yes, I believe I’ve seen you at the Ponderosa. I hear you’re very close to the Cartwrights.” 

Candy gave a small smile. “Yeah, you could say that.” 

Will glanced over at the men gossiping. Candy noticed and said, “Hey, don’t pay any attention to them. One thing you’re gonna learn about this town is people talk like they know everything that goes on in this town. But they’re usually wrong. I used to be just like them. I was so ready to condemn a man. I figured I could tell who was guilty and who wasn’t. But that way of thinking was wrong. A friend showed me that you shouldn’t judge someone and automatically assume they’re guilty based on what you see or hear; because they could very well be innocent. That friend was Joe’s brother, Hoss.” 

Will kept his gaze fixed on the ground. “You’re very loyal to the Cartwrights, aren’t you?” 

Candy scoffed a bit with a smile. “Yeah. If it hadn’t been for them, I don’t know where I’d be. Probably still wandering out there somewhere. Maybe even dead. But they treat me like one of their own and I’m grateful to them. They taught me a lot.” 

“Have you been able to find anything about the man who shot Joe?” Will asked. 

“No, but we will, don’t worry. He’s not gonna get away with it. We’ll make sure of it.” 

Will’s conscience began eating away at him more and more. Candy said goodbye to him and walked off down the street. 

***

Later that evening at the Ponderosa, Alice cleaned up the supper plates on the table when Will walked through the door. 

Alice turned and said, “Oh, Uncle Will. You just missed supper, but I saved a plate for you. Hop Sing made chicken and dumplings again since you mentioned to him how much you loved them.” 

Will faked a smile. “That’s fine.” He could no longer stay silent. The guilt was eating him alive. He took a deep breath and said, “Alice, there’s something I need to talk to you about; if we can speak in private.” 

“All right.” Alice placed the silverware back down on the table and walked over to him. “Why don’t we go upstairs.” 

After Alice and Will ascended the stairs, they entered one of the guest rooms. Will stepped into the room with Alice trailing behind him. He heard the door close and the words were out before he could even stop them. 

“Alice. I’m afraid you’re not going to find the man who shot Joe.” 

Alice asked in confusion, “Why do you say that?” 

“Because you’ve already found him,” he said.

Alice shook her head slightly. “I don’t understand.” 

Will closed his eyes and then confessed, “I shot Joe.” 

Alice let out a soft chuckle. “What?” 

“I lied to you, Alice. I’ve been lying to you ever since I arrived here in Virginia City. But I can’t lie to you anymore. The truth is I’m not the big success I led you to believe I was. In fact it’s quite the opposite. I’m a complete failure. I gambled away every cent I had. And now I’m paying the price for it. I owe a lot of money to a very shrewd businessman named Claude Fairbourne. I lost quite a bit of money to him; five-thousand dollars to be exact and if I don’t give it to him in a couple of days, he’s going to kill me and destroy everyone I love. And that includes you, Alice.” Alice stood there in shock as her uncle’s words began to sink in. Will told her, “I came to Virginia City because he knows about you and your husband and he wants me to get the money from you. I told him no, but he’s very persuasive. So that was the real reason for my unexpected visit. But it turned into so much more than that. I got to know my niece again.” 

The air became thick around Alice and she struggled to breathe. “You said you shot Joe,” she said. 

“Yes. After you gave me the news that you were going to stay in Virginia City, I went into town that night. I walked past the saloon and was tempted to go in there, but I couldn’t. Then I remembered what Claude had said about sending one of his associates to make sure I had gotten the money. It was dark; I heard footsteps and went for my gun, thinking someone was watching me. I pulled the trigger and that’s when I saw that it was Joe. I panicked and ran. It was wrong of me I know.” He glanced over at Alice. “But it was an accident. I didn’t mean to shoot him, you must believe me.” 

Alice’s state of shock turned into anger. “You could have killed him, don’t you understand that?” 

Will said, “I know and I’m sorry. I truly am.” 

Alice looked at him in disbelief, still seething with anger. “You’re sorry? You almost kill the father of my baby and you’re…sorry?” 

“Alice, darling, please believe me. I would never do anything to hurt you,” Will told her. 

Alice cried, “How do I know you’re telling me the truth? How do I know these past few days have been nothing but lies and you really don’t care at all?” 

“I do care, Alice, I wasn’t lying about that. That’s why I wanted you and Joe to come live with me. You’re the only family I have left.” 

“Or you just wanted to use me. You wanted to use me just like my brother. I marry into a wealthy family and all you care about is how much money they have. Well, Joe doesn’t care at all about how wealthy his family is. He’s not some spoiled rich kid who lives off of his father’s wealth. He works hard to earn a living for himself because his father taught him about responsibility, integrity, and honor. Something you and my brother don’t know anything about.” 

“I do know the meaning of those words, Alice.” 

She shook her head. “I don’t think you do. Because you would have been honest with me from the beginning.”

“But I’m telling you now. Doesn’t that mean anything?” he asked. 

“Maybe it does. But I can’t be sure.” 

“You can.” Will came up to her and placed his hands on her shoulders. “Give me another chance to prove myself. I promise I won’t….” 

Alice moved away from him. “No. No more promises, and no more of your lies. I want you to leave. And I don’t want you to come back here ever again.” 

“Alice….” 

“Please. Just go,” she said. 

Will hung his head down as he proceeded to the door. He touched the doorknob and turned around. “I do love you, Alice. And I never wanted any of this whether you believe me or not.” 

After Will left the room, Alice could no longer keep her composure. She laid face down on the bed and sobbed. 

Chapter Four

The next day, Ben told Joe about the progress they had made in finding the man who shot him. Ben sat in a chair near Joe’s bedside. 

“Clem and Candy have not been able to find any leads. Clem thinks they might have skipped town.” Ben leaned forward and asked, “Are you sure you don’t remember anything else that might give us some clue; something that might help us.” 

“Pa, I told you everything I know,” Joe replied in irritation. 

Ben knew he hit a nerve, so he relinquished from asking him any more questions. “All right.” 

Joe realized how harsh he sounded and apologized. “I’m sorry, Pa, it’s just none of this makes any sense.” 

“No, it doesn’t,” Ben responded. 

Joe said, “There has to be some kind of explanation for all of this, there has to be.” 

“I’m sure there is. And we’ll find it, don’t worry about that.” 

Joe looked down and said in a soft tone, “I’m not worried so much about that as I am about Alice.” 

“Why?” Ben asked in curiosity. 

“Well, she seemed fine until last night. She started acting very strange. She barely said two words to me and then this morning she had Hop Sing bring me my breakfast instead of her. It’s almost as if she’s trying to avoid me.” 

Ben reassured him. “Well, I’m sure it’s nothing to worry about. She’s just been through a lot of emotional stress over what happened. I’m sure it’s taking a toll on her.”

“Yeah, I suppose you’re right. It does seem like she’s been getting along pretty good with her uncle though,” Joe said.” 

Ben adjusted in his seat. “That’s something I wanted to talk to you about. Candy told me that last night he saw Will leave the ranch with all of his belongings and just drove off in a buggy.” 

“You mean he just left?” Joe asked in disbelief. 

“Well, it certainly appears that way, yes.” 

“But why would her uncle just leave and not say goodbye to her?”  

“That’s a good question.” 

Joe tilted his head slightly as he put the pieces together. “You know that might be why she was acting so strange. Something must have happened between them.” 

“It’s possible, but why not tell you if something did happen between them?” Ben asked. 

Joe sighed. “I don’t know, but I’m gonna find out.” 

Suddenly there was a knock at the door. Ben got up from his seat and answered it. “Jamie?” 

“Pa, I think there’s something wrong with Alice.” 

Joe’s head perked up. Ben glanced over at Joe and then back at Jamie. He asked, “Why do you ask that?” 

“Well, I passed by her on the way home from school. We got to talking and I asked about her uncle and she started crying. I asked her what’s wrong and she ran off.” 

“Where?” Joe asked, anxiously. 

“I think she was heading towards Willow Crest. At least that’s where I passed by a moment before I ran into her.” 

Joe slowly sat up from the bed. “I’m going after her.” 

“Joseph, Doc Martin told you to stay in bed,” Ben told him, sternly. 

Joe moved around to the edge of the bed. 

“Since when do I ever listen to the doctor, Pa.” 

“Why don’t you let Candy and Jamie go, they’ll find her,” Ben suggested. 

Joe was persistent. “No, she’s my wife, Pa. She needs me. Now help me get dressed.” 

Ben sighed in frustration. “You are a stubborn patient, Joseph.” He turned to Jamie. “Jamie, I want you to go and tell Candy what’s happened and to get the buckboard ready.” 

Jamie hurried out the door while Ben helped Joe get dressed. 

***

A little while later, Joe and Candy were on the buckboard with Candy steering the reins as they searched for Alice. 

“Jamie said she was near Willow Crest?” Candy asked. 

“Yeah, that’s what he told us,” Joe replied. 

“Well, she couldn’t have gotten far,” Candy said. 

Joe looked ahead of him and spotted Alice next to an oak tree. “There she is. Stop right here.” 

Candy pulled on the reins. Joe got up and then climbed down with his good arm off of the buckboard. 

Alice had her back turned when Joe called out to her. 

“Alice?” 

Alice turned around and saw Joe hurry over to her. “Joe, what are you doing out of bed?” she asked, tearfully. 

“Nevermind me, what are you doing out here?” he asked. 

Alice turned away from him as she placed her hand up to her mouth and closed her eyes. “Joe, please just leave me alone,” she said, softly. 

Joe came up to her and turned her shoulders around to face him. “No, not until you tell me what’s wrong.” 

“I can’t,” she said. 

“Why not?” he asked. 

“I…I’m afraid of what you might do,” she trembled. 

“Alice, that’s ridiculous, just tell me what it is. I promise you I won’t get mad, just please, tell me,” he pleaded. 

She took a breath. “My uncle…he’s the one who shot you.” 

Joe looked at her in puzzlement, “What?” 

“My uncle shot you, Joe. He confessed everything to me last night.”  

Joe shook his head. “I don’t understand, why would your uncle want to kill me?” 

“It was an accident. He didn’t know it was you. He thought it was one of the men he owed money to. He lied to me, Joe, he lied about everything.” 

“Alice, why didn’t you tell me?” 

“I was afraid. Afraid you might try to go after him or press charges against him. But I don’t care anymore. I don’t care what you do to him.” 

Joe stood there at a loss for words, gazing at her with sorrowful eyes. “Come on, let’s go back to the ranch.” 

He placed his arm around her shoulder as they walked back over to the buckboard. 

***

Later that evening, Ben was in the living room as he sat in a chair reading a book when Joe descended the stairs. Ben looked up and placed the book down in his lap.  

“How is she?” he asked. 

Joe walked over to the settee. “I finally got her to sleep. It took me nearly an hour to calm her back down again.” He took a seat on the settee and sighed. “I just can’t believe he would do this to her. His own niece.” 

“I know,” Ben responded in a solemn tone of voice. 

“She wants me to press charges against him,” Joe told him. 

“Are you sure that’s what she really wants?” Ben asked. 

Joe shook his head. “No. I don’t think she knows what she’s asking. I’m afraid if I go through with it, she might end up regretting it and I don’t want her feeling guilty about it. She already blames herself for what happened.” 

“Well, I think the fact that she hesitated in telling you shows that she really doesn’t want to,” Ben told him. “I think what she’s doing now is out of guilt for allowing herself to get close to him only to get hurt again.”  

Joe fixed his gaze towards the fireplace with a stern look in his eyes. “He was only using her, just like her brother. He never cared about her at all; he just wanted to save his own hide.” 

“Well, I wouldn’t say that. He cared enough to tell her the truth,” Ben responded. 

“Well, he’s gone now and I hope he stays gone. I don’t want him hurting her ever again,” Joe fumed. 

Ben could see the fury in his son’s eyes slowly building. A look he was all too familiar with. 

“Joe, despite how you may feel about him, he’s still her uncle. And I believe deep down he still loves her and she loves him. Because despite everything that’s happened between them, they’re still family.” 

Joe advocated, “We’re her family, Pa.” 

Ben nodded. “Yes we are. But you are forgetting one thing. Your daughter. Not only is she a part of you, but she’s a part of Alice as well. And that includes her family. Who are we to deny her the right to know both families? Do you want to deny her that right?” 

Joe hung his head down and replied with a soft, “No.” 

“So we will let Alice decide whether or not she still wants him to be a part of her life, not us. But right now she needs her husband. She needs him to be there for her. Can you do that?” Joe paused and slowly nodded. Ben said, “I’ll inform Clem and Candy of what’s happened and that no charges will be brought against him in the morning.” 

Ben got up from his chair and headed towards the stairs. 

“Pa?” Ben stopped with his hand on the post and turned around. Joe told him, “She’s also gonna know about love.” 

Ben gave a small smile. “And she’ll have plenty of that.” 

Joe smiled and Ben headed up the stairs.  

***

Meanwhile, it was nighttime as Will walked along the streets of Virginia City. He couldn’t stop thinking about his niece and how he betrayed her as it weighed heavy on his heart and mind. His thoughts were interrupted by a pistol that came out of the shadows pointed at him and the voice of Claude Fairbourne. 

“Going somewhere, Harper?” 

Claude stepped out of the shadows with a cigar in his mouth. Will stood there frozen as his heart skipped a beat. Claude took the cigar out of his mouth. “You look surprised to see me. Time’s up, Harper. Where’s my money?” 

“I don’t have it. I couldn’t get it,” Will stuttered. 

“Whaddya mean you couldn’t get it?” Claude asked. 

“Because I told her the truth. I couldn’t keep lying to her. I didn’t want to get the money this way; I told you that. So do as you wish with me, but leave her and her family alone.” 

Claude paused. “I got a better idea. Why don’t we see just how valuable you are to your niece and how much she’s willing to pay…for your life.” 

Will’s eyes widened. Claude’s associates grabbed hold of him and pulled him away while Claude gave him a sinister grin. 

Chapter Five 

Later that night, Clem came by the Ponderosa for an unexpected visit. Ben answered the door. 

“Oh, Clem.” 

“Ben. I’m sorry to disturb you so late.” 

“Oh, that’s all right, come in.” Ben stepped out of the way and Clem walked through the door as he removed his hat. “What brings you here?” Ben asked. 

Joe came out of the kitchen and saw Clem. “Hey, Clem,” he said. 

Clem turned around. “Joe. It’s good you’re both here because the matter I need to discuss with you involves you both.” 

“Oh, well, let’s sit down.” 

Ben motioned to the living room. Clem took a seat in a chair while Ben and Joe took a seat on the settee. 

“I received a ransom note from a man named Claude Fairbourne.” 

Clem pulled a note out of his vest pocket and handed it to Ben. “He’s holding Will Harper hostage until he gets five-thousand dollars or else he’ll kill him by noon tomorrow.” 

Ben showed Joe the note. It read: How much is Will Harper’s life worth to a Cartwright?

“I looked into this Claude Fairbourne fella and he’s not one to mess around with,” Clem told them. 

Joe’s face lit up at the name. “Fairbourne? Alice mentioned somebody by that name her uncle had owed money to.” 

“And now he’s found a way to get it,” Ben said. 

Clem looked over at Ben. “Just say the word Ben. What do you want me to do?” 

Ben and Joe exchanged glances as if they could read each other’s thoughts. Ben said, “Well, there’s only one thing to do…go to the bank.” He got up from the settee and told Clem, “I don’t have that particular amount with me. I’ll have to get it. We better go now.” 

Clem got up from his seat along with Joe when they heard a soft, yet firm voice of Alice. 

“No.” 

Ben, Joe and Clem came to a halt and looked up at the staircase. Alice descended the stairs in her robe and said, “You’re not going to give them anything.” 

Joe went over to her. “Alice….”

Alice fixed her gaze on Joe. “No. We’re not going to give him the money my uncle owes him,” she demanded; her voice trembling. 

“Alice, he’s gonna kill him if we don’t. Is that what you want?” Joe asked. 

Alice tried to fight tears as she shook her head. “I don’t care.” 

“Yeah, well, I don’t believe you. I think you do care, Alice and no matter what he’s done, I know you don’t want him to die.” Alice’s lip quivered. Joe urged, “I want you to look at me and tell me you don’t care what happens to him.” 

Alice couldn’t bring herself to look at him. Joe took her shoulders and repeated, “Look at me.” 

Alice lifted her head up to him, staring into his eyes and it was then that she could no longer stop the tears from falling. Her breath shuddered as Joe took her in his arms and held her close to him. 

She cried, “Please, help him. I still love him. I don’t want him to die.” 

Ben said to Clem, “We better get going.” 

Joe turned around while still holding Alice. “Wait, Pa.” Joe took her face and gently parted her hair as he said, softly, “We’ll get him back, I promise.” He kissed her forehead and hurried over to Ben and Clem. “I’m going with you.” 

“All right. I’ll have Candy come along with us.” 

Ben grabbed his coat and hat before heading out the door with Clem. 

Joe grabbed his gun belt and put it on. 

Alice walked up to him. “Please be careful. I don’t want to lose you too.” 

Joe brushed his palm against her cheek. “You won’t.” 

Alice gave a faint smile. Joe gave her a quick kiss and grabbed his green jacket and hat before heading out the door. 

***

In Virginia City, Joe and Candy snuck out of the alleyway and made their way towards the livery. 

Joe stopped and said to Candy in a quiet tone, “You go around to the backside and I’ll take the front.” Candy nodded and then moved to the back of the livery while Joe entered the front. 

Inside, Joe crept up behind a bail of hay. He took a peek over the hay bail and saw Will seated on the ground with his hands behind his back; his face bruised and beaten. Joe reached for his gun when he heard the sound of a gun cocking. 

“You make one move, I pull the trigger.” Joe froze and slowly lifted his hands up. The man removed Joe’s revolver. “Get up, let’s go.” He hoisted Joe up and pushed him forward. Claude had his back turned when he heard one of his men say to him, “Look who I found.” Claude turned around and the man shoved Joe to the ground. 

Claude fixed his gaze on Joe. “And who might you be?” 

Joe lifted his head up to him and stared daggers at him. “Joe Cartwright,” he said. 

Will’s head jerked up; his eyes widened in disbelief. 

Claude tilted his head to the right with a curious expression. “Cartwright, huh?” His mouth formed an oval shape. “Oh, you must be Ben’s youngest son. I’ve heard about you. You’ve got quite a short fuse.” He glanced over at Will and remarked, “I guess Harper has some value after all.” 

“Yeah, so let him go,” Joe told him in a stern tone. 

Will looked over at the pitchfork lying against a bail of hay and moved his body towards it. 

Claude said, “My money.” 

“You’ll get it, just let him go,” Joe repeated.  

“If Harper really is that valuable to you. How much more valuable would you be to them?” Joe glared at him. Claude told him, “We’re gonna make another financial arrangement.” 

Will knocked the pitchfork down and the distraction was enough for Joe to snatch his revolver from the man’s hand and clock him in the face with his elbow. Claude’s other associate lunged at Joe, but Joe tackled him to the ground and punched him across the face. 

Will watched Joe fight the two men in amazement as Joe wrestled with one of them. Claude came up and knocked Joe over the head with the butt of his gun. Joe yelped as he collapsed on the ground. 

“Tie him up,” Claude said to his men. 

***

A little while later, Joe regained consciousness and noticed his hands were bound behind his back. He looked to his left and saw Will. 

“I thought they killed you,” Will said, relieved. 

Joe scraped his palms together, trying to loosen the rope. “No, I’m still alive,” he grunted. 

Will told him, “They could have, you know.” 

Joe laid his head back against the hay bail and rested his hands. “Yeah, but they didn’t.” 

Will said, “I didn’t think you would come for me. I didn’t think anyone would.” 

Joe scowled, “Yeah, well, let’s get one thing straight. I didn’t do this for you, I did it for Alice. She still thinks there’s something decent in you. If it were up to me, you’d be locked up in a cell right now.” 

Will sighed. “I suspect she told you the truth.” 

Joe’s head snapped back up again. “Yeah, she told me. After I had to force it out of her. She was so worried about what I would do to you.” 

Will’s mouth opened, unable to fathom the idea. “I didn’t think she would be after what I’ve done to her.” 

Joe told him, “She loves you. Despite everything you’ve done, that woman still loves you.” Will became filled with remorse. Joe, still seething, asked, “Did you really love her or was that also part of your scheme?” 

“Yes, I did; I still do. I wasn’t lying about that. It’s the reason why I wanted her to come live with me.” 

“Why, so you could use her some more?” Joe retorted. 

Will shook his head. “No. I never wanted it to be this way. I really did want to get to know my niece again. And I’ve loved getting to know her. She’s so much like her mother in so many ways. She’s strong like her. She’s also a wonderful mother.” 

“That’s one thing we can agree on,” Joe responded. 

Will looked at Joe. “You really do care a lot about her, don’t you?” 

“I do. I love her more than anything. She’s the greatest thing that’s ever happened to me.” 

“That’s good. I’m glad she has you, Joe. You’re a good man.” Will let out a heavy sigh and told him,“I just wish I could tell her how sorry I am. And that I really do love her.” 

Joe scanned the loft and spotted a hook. He slid over to it and began moving his tied hands up and down against it, sawing through the rope. 

Will asked him in puzzlement, “What are you doing?” 

“I’m getting us out of here, that’s what I’m doing,” Joe grunted. 

“It’ll never work. They’ll catch us before we even attempt to escape,” Will told him.  

Joe managed to cut the rope enough for him to break it apart. After he freed his hands, he hurried over to Will and untied his hands. “Now if you want to get outta here alive, you’re gonna do exactly as I say,” Joe told him in a stern tone. He helped him up. “Let’s go.” 

Joe and Will climbed down the loft and moved towards the entrance when Joe spotted Claude’s men keeping watch. 

Joe placed his finger up to his lips, signaling for Will to be quiet. He then snuck up behind the man, clamped his hand over his mouth and punched him in the face, knocking him out cold. Joe laid him down on the ground and went for his gun belt. 

Will asked in a quiet tone, “Where did you learn to fight like that?” 

“I had two older brothers, remember? Come on.” 

They slowly made their way to the entrance. Joe leaned back against the wall with his revolver held up in front of him. He took a peek outside when he heard footsteps approaching. Joe braced himself; his heart pounding in his chest when Candy appeared at the entrance. He held his hands up and whispered, “It’s just me.”

Joe lowered his gun and relaxed. “Where have you been?” he asked.

“I was waiting for you, what happened?”

“I got a little held up,” Joe responded. 

Candy told him, “I saw what looked like Fairbourne and another man leaving the livery.” 

“That was him. Was there anybody else out there?” Joe asked. 

Candy shook his head. “No, I don’t think so. I didn’t see anyone else.” 

“Let’s go.” Joe slowly made his way out of the livery when a gunshot went off next to him. Joe pulled back inside. “They spotted us.” Joe fired a shot back and then headed for cover. He yanked Will down with him and growled, “Get down and stay down.” 

Another shot went off and Candy fired back before ducking behind a bail of hay. 

Joe and Candy continued to fire shots at Claude’s men when the man Joe knocked out came to and picked up his gun. He peeked his head over the bail of hay and aimed it at Joe. 

“Joe, behind you!” Candy shouted. 

Joe turned around just as the man fired a shot at him when Will leapt in front of Joe. The bullet hit him in the chest. Joe rapidly fired his revolver back at the man. He spun around and collapsed onto the ground. 

Joe hurried over to Will and lifted him up. Will winced and gave a soft chuckle. He said through labored breaths, “I shot you. So I guess this makes up for it.” 

“We’ll get you a doctor, just hold on,” Joe told him. 

Will looked up at him with a weak smile. “As I told you before. I’m glad Alice has you, Joe. Take care of her.” 

Will closed his eyes and breathed his last as he fell limp in Joe’s arms. 

Joe looked down at him in shock. His lip quivered, knowing he had broken his promise to Alice about bringing her uncle back alive. 

Ben entered the livery. “Joe?” He looked down and saw Joe holding Will’s lifeless body. 

Joe looked up at him as tears spilled down his cheeks and shook his head. Ben stood there motionless as he stared at Will’s body and thought of Alice; knowing the immense pain it would cause her. 

Clem arrested Claude Fairbourne and his other associate. They were placed in a jail cell and awaited sentencing. 

***

Meanwhile, Joe returned home with Ben back to the Ponderosa. 

Alice had not been able to sleep. She waited in anticipation for him and her uncle. She reached the staircase when the door opened and Joe walked in with Ben trailing behind him. 

Alice hurried down the stairs and over to Joe. She wrapped her arms around him and said in relief, “You were gone for hours, I was so worried.” She pulled away from him and noticed her uncle wasn’t there with him. “Where is he?” 

Joe couldn’t bring himself to say the words to her. He looked into her eyes and realized he didn’t even need to say it. 

Alice shook her head as her eyes filled with tears. “No….” 

“I’m sorry,” Joe said with his voice almost a whisper. Alice broke down into his chest. He wrapped his arms around her and he could no longer stop the tears himself. He remembered Will’s final wish, but struggled fiercely to get the words out. “He said he was sorry. And that he loved you.” 

Alice sobbed as Joe held her close; his heart breaking for her. He lifted her up in his arms and carried her up the stairs. Ben watched them, barely able to hold back tears himself. 

***

The next afternoon, Alice, Joe, and Ben stood near a white cross. They had buried her uncle next to her brother, John. The reverend gave a brief sermon and afterwards Joe and Alice headed back to their home again. 

Later that evening, Alice came out onto the porch of her and Joe’s house. She rested her hands on top of the railing and looked up at the stars that shone brightly through the tall pinewood trees. She was so consumed by her thoughts, she barely heard Joe walk out onto the porch. 

Alice turned to him and asked, “Is the baby asleep?” 

“Yeah. What are you doing out here?” 

Alice gently moved her fingers across the railing. “I guess I just needed some air.” 

Joe came up next to her and looked out at the night sky with her in silence. Alice said, “Before you came out here, I was thinking about my parents and how they would have really loved this place, especially my mother. She loved the country. I guess I took after her in that way. Now she’s gone. And so is my father and brother. And now my uncle. There’s nothing left of my family—only memories. And what memories do I have if only painful ones. Who knows? I might have ended up just like my brother and uncle. It runs in the family right? I could be just like them.”  

“Not if you didn’t wanna be,” Joe told her. 

Alice’s eyes filled with tears as she asked, “Who am I, Joe? Because I don’t even know anymore.” 

“Who are you?” Joe gently turned her head to him. “Well, I’m gonna tell you who you are.” He placed his hands on her shoulders. “You are Alice Cartwright. You’re my wife and this is our home. Yours and mine…and our baby’s.” 

Alice smiled and said, “I hope Sara turns out to be like you, Joe and not anything like what my family was.” 

“It wouldn’t be so bad if she turned out to be like you. In fact I hope she’s exactly like you. Because you are a kind and wonderful person. And I love you so much.” Joe gave her a tender kiss. He told her, “And you don’t want her to be like me, believe me.” 

Alice laughed. Joe took her in his arms and embraced her. 

The End